GOOD-BYE AND FAREWELL

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR SUPPORTING ME IN THIS BLOG ENDEAVOR. I AM NOW WORKING ON MY OWN WRITING PROJECTS AND WILL RETIRE FROM THE NEWS BUSINESS. I AM OPTIMISTIC THAT THE COMMUNITY WILL FIND ITS WAY TO PEACE, PROSPERITY AND HEALTHY, NEIGHBORLY COMMITMENT TO HEALING.

I HOPE THE IDAHO WORLD PUBLISHER/EDITOR FINDS HER WAY TO PROVIDING NEWS COVERAGE OF ALL PEOPLE IN GARDEN VALLEY AND GROWS TO LEARN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FAIR COVERAGE AND WRITING THAT IS SLANTED TO HER OWN PREJUDICE; TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THOSE WHO LIE AND THOSE WHO TELL THE TRUTH; TO HAVE THE COURAGE TO RESIST THOSE WHO INTIMIDATE HER INTO BETRAYAL OF HONOR... AND TO UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF LOYALTY TO THOSE WHO KEEP HER IN BUSINESS.

THANK YOU TO MY FELLOW WRITERS OF THE IW: LYNN MAXWELL, JOAN PELLEY AND KATHLEEN WILSON, ALL KEEPERS OF THE LIGHT. IT'S BEEN A HELL OF AN EXPERIENCE...NAMASTE.

CROUCH COUNCIL MOVES FORWARD ON SEWER SYSTEM

At the Crouch City Council special meeting on Wednesday, August 25, Council discussed a potential bond election, for the proposed City sewer system.

For inclusion in the bond election on the November 2 ballot, Council was aware that a City Ordinance needs to be passed soon. Discussion ensued.

Council President Dawn Smith, who met with Buxton Moore Bond Counsel, said that if the bond election is successful, the costs will be paid out of financing for the sewer. If the bond doesn’t pass, there is a cap of $1200, with an average of $800-900 loss to the City.

There is continued concern over the monthly resident/user cost. Councilor Richard Messick again expressed doubt that, after the school and library bonds, the people will go for this bond.

Mayor Bob Powell admits the cost is prohibitive, but his septic is old and he’s willing to go for it.

Councilor Smith said, “Everything we do on the hill is coming down here (to the village). The DEQ told us it’s affecting our wells down here—they’re at risk. We are also leeching into the river.”

There is concern over the possibility of losing grants if they put it off. Smith mentioned that there is money available at o% interest, but the City will never know until it gets the bond.

County Commissioner Jamie Anderson suggested a chance of debt forgiveness; if the user fee comes to $80, and the quoted/accepted user fee is less, the city could possibly be forgiven the difference.

Smith said, “I think we need to sell it at $45 a month for users. It’s about truth; you’ve all heard DEQ say they could come here and make us take it...we’re on their radar. I would like to see it go through...otherwise, I’m done. I’ve worked hard on this!”

The Council passed the motion to authorize Stephanie Bonney, of Buxton Moore Bond Counsel, to proceed with writing an ordinance to start the process of a bond election. Council plans to hold public meetings in September and October, to get the word out. For this particular bond, a 50% plus one vote is needed, to pass.

Smith informed Council that citizens can take the initiative to make signs and push the bond; Council can only verbally canvas the community. They want the public to know that if the user fee doesn’t come out to be affordable, at say $45, they will not move forward, even if the bond passes.

Two unspecified locations are being considered for the system. One piece of property is closer in and less expensive, while the other, which leaves room for growth, is farther out and will cost more.

The next regular Crouch City Council meeting is Wednesday, September 8, 6:30 p.m., at Crouch Community Hall. For information, contact Jody Waltman, at 462-4687.

Above: Councilor Karen Phillips supports Crouch sewer system!

WHILE YOU PREPARE FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL: PREPARE FOR ALL EMERGENCIES

Prepared By The American Red Cross

Parents, and Grandparents raising grandchildren, this article is for you and anyone else who is unprepared in case of emergencies. September is National Preparedness month. Whether it’s the last-minute run to the store for the glue that will hold a child’s project together or the dozens of bake-sale cupcakes whipped up late at night, parents frequently deal with the unexpected. Being prepared for emergencies—and not just the glue and cupcake variety—is the new golden rule for having a great school year.

Get a Kit: Most back-to-school shopping lists feature items like pencils, notebooks and folders. This year, make sure you also have items for an emergency preparedness kit.

At a minimum, have the basic supplies listed below. Keep supplies in an easy-to-carry container that you can use at home or take with you in case you must evacuate.

• Water—one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home). • Food—non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
• Flashlight.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible).
• Extra batteries.
• First aid kit.
• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items.
• Multipurpose tool.
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items.
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies).
• Cell phone with chargers.
• Family and emergency contact information.
• Extra cash.
• Emergency blanket.
• Map(s) of the area.

Make a Plan

***Every family should create and practice an evacuation and communications plan. Each person should know how to reach other family members and where to meet if they can’t return home. You should also designate an out-of-area relative or friend as an emergency contact and make sure all household members know how to contact this person.

To make an evacuation plan, choose two meeting places: one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire, and another outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate.

Decide where you would go and what route you would take if you had to evacuate. Make sure to also plan ahead for your pets. Keep a phone list of "pet friendly" motels/hotels and animal shelters that are along your evacuation routes.

Be Informed

Learning the skills you need, to respond in an emergency before help arrives,
is another important key to being prepared. Make sure that at least one member of your household is trained in first aid and CPR and knows how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED).

Twilegar Recall Petition Reaches Garden Valley

The petitions to recall Boise County Prosecuting Attorney RJ Twilegar, which have been circulating in the Idaho City area for a couple of months, are now being toted around town by Garden Valley residents, in an effort to get the 1200 signatures necessary for inclusion on the November general election ballot. They have until August 30.

Twilegar has been raising the hackles of County officials ever since he was sworn in, on January 12, 2009. Somehow, it came to the Commissioners’ attention that the new PA had no business in Federal Court, defending the County against the Alamar Ranch allegation of violations against the Fair Housing Act. Twilegar allegedly admitted he had not practiced law in 26 years and had never appeared in Federal Court. Outside counsel was retained by Boise County Commissioners and Twilegar was asked to step aside.

Then a Special Prosecutor from the Attorney General’s office stepped in to investigate criminal allegations brought against Twilegar, by County Commissioners. It seems when someone runs for office in Boise County, officials actually trust the applicant to be a resident of that county—especially if the person attests to the fact in writing. So much for the old honor system of spit and a handshake... now, even the X doesn’t offer much credence.

The County decided not to prosecute, as they weren’t given a leg to stand on. The report from the AG’s office states that “while there is substantial evidence that Mr. Twilegar was likely not a resident of Boise County at the time of the investigation or at the time he registered and voted in the May, 2008, primary election, no criminal statute could be found that applied to the holding of an office for which one is not qualified. Further, the statutes governing the affirmations required of a person who is registering to become an elector, contain wording making the affirmations regarding registrations prospective.”

Between May, 2009 and December, 2009, squabbles came up at County Commissioner meetings, ranging from Twilegar’s firing of his personally chosen Deputy Prosecutor, highly regarded Idaho Attorney, Jay Rosenthal, to hiring two part-time “green” Deputy Prosecutors (Cherese McLain and Eric Scott), to requests by Twilegar for reimbursements of lawyer’s fees, copies and transactions, which the Board paid or refused to pay.

The Secretary of State’s Office was contacted and they too chose not to prosecute Twilegar. Boise County Commissioners had done their due diligence and the residency issue was dropped.

During 2009 budget discussions, Twilegar revealed his time was being spent investigating his own clients, “county employees and others.” An unidentified source says that after commissioners educated him that this was against the law, he wanted a special prosecutor to step in. When no other county would trade services with him (for free) to act as a Special Prosecutor, he filed his request, without Commissioner’s authority to exceed his $1000 spending limits. His point was, possible misappropriation of $3,000 in County funds, from October, 2008, through January, 2009.

In support of the continuing effort to keep the 4th District Court system occupied, Commissioners filed requests three weeks later, for a Special Prosecutor; they suggested using someone who would work for free. The Court eventually appointed a third person, at no cost to the County. Special Prosecutor Daniel Norris refused to prosecute, as there was no probable cause. (Former Commissioner Fred Lawson had been pulled out by Twilegar, without Commissioner knowledge, and that is the subject of another current Tort Claim filed against Boise County.)

Boise County Commissioners retained additional private counsel to defend themselves for a few months. A methodical process ensued and Twilegar’s FY2010 salary was reduced to $25K.

Unidentified sources say additional accusations were dealt with, during the next few months, and went nowhere.

Twilegar was involved in an accident at Christmastime, 2009, with a 3 + month recovery period. Prior to his returning to full time work, Criminal Prosecutor Eric James gave his 10-day notice and quit. Twilegar found a replacement.

The FY2011 budget is at its highest, for the PA office. Sources say Twilegar insists it is his doing that the office runs smoothly. His salary has been restored, though it is unclear who is doing the work. Commissioners have seen Twilegar five times since last August. Perhaps the regular appearance of Deputy Prosecutor Cherese McLain, representing the prosecution of duties at Commissioner meetings and other civil meetings, and the two deputies still apparently performing the majority of responsibilities is just a scrim, to camouflage the diligent Prosecuting Attorney’s 007 pursuits.

For information on, or to sign, the petition, contact Linda Bass, at 462-3426 or lbass2@frontiernet.net.

SHOW YOUR COLORS: Order Wolverine Shirts!

Be ready for the first home game on Friday, September 3rd! Orders are being taken this week for Wolverine Football Team Gear.

The Black Shirts have this design on the front, honoring the graduating team captains and to get the spirit on the move for Garden Valley Football Season. T-shirts are $12, Long-Sleeve T-shirts are $15 and Hooded Sweatshirts go for $30.

Show your colors and order your game gear from any football player, or contact Linda Bass at 462-3426 / lbass2@frontiernet.net or Melea Hileman 462-3571 / mhileman@gvsd.net.

SOUTHFORK LANDING PUD AMENDMENT

Boise County P&Z Commissioners, L-R: Clint Evans, Jon Bart, John Cottingham, Rosemary Ardinger and Lois Murphy.

The Boise County Planning and Zoning Commission held their regular meeting on Thursday, August 19, in the GV School Flex Room. Two items on the agenda were related: The Southfork Landing (SFL) amended PUD (planned unit development) public hearing and review and the Haile minor subdivision public hearing and review.

Lloyd Mahaffey, of Dynamis Group and part of the SFL development team, explained, “We had the small parcel on the east side of Alder Creek; it originally showed as seven lots. When the Army Corps of Engineers got done, it turned into three lots; with the new bridge, it looked more like two. We decided to amend the PUD. SFL will still have over 60% common area and we’ll pick up the parcels elsewhere. It’s one of the original properties and has its own well and septic; we had pulled the fire line—it will have full fire protection, with an unlimited two-inch connection supply; wetland area measures will remain in place. Really, everything is as it’s always been—no conditions will be changed.”

The 8.32 acre parcel was purchased by Terry and Joanne Haile, of Parma; the plat showing the Haile Subdivision was received by the County P&Z on June 9, 2010.

P&Z Chair Jon Bart began by clarifying the situation as he saw it: “The land has already been sold by SFL to the Hailes. There is concern that the Land Use Ordinance requirements have not been met. We are asked to judge this as though the land hadn’t been sold and review it “on their merits”.

Cherese McLain, Chief Civil Prosecuting Attorney for Boise County, said, “We became aware of the fact that it had been sold. The best option to move forward was to extract that property out of the SFL subdivision PUD."

Bart recommended that “we do what we were asked to do—accept it on its merits. I have looked for the proceedings for making a boundary change and I found remarkably little. Anyone aware of the procedure, let me know!”

P&Z Administrator Patti Burke said, “It’s a plat amendment in the Subdivision Ordinance.” Commissioner John Cottingham complimented Burke on finding a good resolution to a complicated situation.

Besides being to the east of Alder Creek Road, the parcel sits with the Southfork River on its northern boundary, and Southfork Road on the south. The previously approved plat has the easement on Alder Creek Road as 66 feet. The Right-of-Way will be 33 feet from the center of the road, on each side; this easement is stated as being for road clearance and snow storage.

Taxes on the property were discussed. There is a condition on the PUD, which states “the applicant must pay all taxes and obtain County Assessor certification prior to signing off the final amendment.” McLain said they do not intend to include the wording on the agreement. One condition is they are not to be held against SFL. There was uncertainty about who is the “applicant” and agreement was made on considering the Hailes as the applicants, since they are the owners of the property now. The point was made that P&Z commissioners are not the final say—it goes to the County Commissioners.

Resident Jayne Reed stated, “It was not made clear in the Staff Report-- the sale of this property was a clear violation –this goes to a trust issue. This shows people don’t have to follow rules.”

Chairman Bart said, “It’s made clear now.”

Reed continued, “I’m concerned this will have implications later. During one hearing, it was declared by Mahaffey that it didn’t matter regarding the bridge—both sides of the property was SFL. Are we, the taxpayers, going to be made to purchase more property to straighten out the east side? My understanding is the bridge is going to be bigger.” She voiced concern about safety and the position it would put the County in if they don’t have enough Right-of-Way for the bridge.

Then there are the wetlands. Reed went on, “They stated there would be no change. I think it should be written upfront that the Hailes don’t change them. And I am confused about the taxes due...this application is to clear up their violation. Why shouldn’t they be required? This is the County’s opportunity to bring them into compliance for payment of taxes. Why should we do them favors? They’re not doing us any. It does reflect on their progress. ” Also mentioned were the lines SFL illegally split on the parcel.

Jon Bart agreed that Reed raised some issues. The wetlands were deferred until “later”. McLain said, “There is no change in Right-of-Way. The 66 feet are the same. Talk to Bill Jones about the placement of the bridge.” Burke commented that if the County needed extra ground from the Hailes, she didn’t think it would prohibit the bridge going in.”

The Commission voted to approve the SFL PUD amendment, with the exception of “Item 5” (taxes). Commissioner Rosemary Ardinger expressed neutrality.

Then there was the one about the Hailes’ Minor Subdivision Public Hearing...there was discussion and confusion regarding subdividing the SFL parcels and the Haile parcel. Patti Burke stated, “The mother parcel cannot have another minor subdivision. SFL has other parcel numbers, but they can only have one minor per parcel. The original parcel is Southfork Landing. This will be recorded as the owner’s parcel.”

Jon Bart asked if the new owners can come back and subdivide their parcel. Burke said the ordinance dictates whether or not they could.

The point was brought up that the minor subdivision process is between 1-4 lots. The way Boise County has recognized this is they want people to do what they want to their properties. The Commission voted to approve the easement and the condition that the applicant must obtain any necessary permits for building in a wetland, if they wish to further develop the parcel.

Garden Valley Updates! SENIOR CENTER GIANT YARD SALE, SCHOOL NEWS

SENIOR CENTER GIANT YARD SALE

The Garden Valley Senior Center will hold a giant yard sale at 261 Middlefork Road, from 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 3rd and from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 4th (Labor Day weekend).

Granny Richter says, "There will be all kinds of household utensils and knicknacks, tools, appliances, clothing, furniture, toys, bedding etc., all of it good quality and in great shape. Come browse while you munch a homemade cookie and sip a soda, which will also be available to purchase.

"100% of the proceeds are used to support the GV Senior Center, as well as given back to the community in the form of scholarships and donations. "

Granny's Closet, the GV Senior Center thrift store, will also be open during the sale and is always a fun place to browse and pick up something unique, useful, and well-priced. Thanks for supporting the Senior Center so faithfully!

School News

Joe Early has taken retirement from the School Maintenance Department, after five years of hard labor! Joe is a decorated veteran and a Purple Heart recipient; the school has benefitted from his life experience here, which showed up in all he did. The maintenance crew celebrated his release with pizza today, August 19. Congratulations to Joe and Thanks For All of Your Dedicated and Conscientious Care of Our School!

Keelee Harrold is our new Kindergarten Teacher. Welcome aboard, Keelee.

Be Aware: School Buses will be running 20 minutes earlier than last year. Keep an eye out for those kids!

HELP RECOVER STOLEN SIGN!

NEAT STUFF! Sign was stolen from front of the Garden Valley Video Store on August 18. Help Mike Uhl recover his property. If you see his NEAT STUFF! sign, call 462-4465.

WOLVERINE ATHLETES SELLING WOOD

Left: Jono Lawler and Coach Yearsley. Below, right: Tucker Leiva, Logan Pergande and Zach
Root hefting the big ponderosa round. Bottom: Coach Hileman and Mr. Palmiotto sawing.

Last Saturday, August 14th, was the second time that a large group of Garden Valley teachers, parents, coaches and student athletes all came together to buck and stack a log truck load of firewood.

The students will be selling the wood to help fund the Wolverine Athletics Programs this year. Local delivery will be made by the teams, with the ponderosa and lodgepole rounds selling for $140/cord. Contact Bob Powell, Athletic Director at GVHS - 462-3756 - for more information, or to place your order. Thanks to Linda Bass for photos & info.

FRIENDS OF GARDEN VALLEY LIBRARY HOLD 3RD TOTE SEW DAY

Have machine, will sew totes! Show up Wednesday, August 25th, at the Senior Center, and enjoy a day of camaraderie with volunteers bent on raising money for the new GV Library.

The routine begins at 9:00 a.m., take a lunch break, and finish around 3:00 p.m. Bring your sewing machine (with walking foot, if you have one), scissors, extra bobbins, seam ripper, tape measure, and your lunch and make another day of it!

Christy Jauregui says, "If you've not been to one of our Tote Sew days, don't be shy--we'll show you everything you need to know and help you along the way--and we have fun!"

The Friends have permission to set up and sell at the Farmer's Market on Saturday, so the more totes finished, the more they can sell!

ANNUAL GARDEN VALLEY SCHOOL REGISTRATION & POTLUCK: Free Backpacks and Supplies For Kids in Need

Wolverines All In A Row


It's that time already folks! Time to buy the satchel, tablet and pencil and march the kids down to the school for registration and potluck, on Wednesday, August 18, between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

The school will provide Hot Dogs and families are requested to bring one potluck dish and the kids. Meet the teaching staff for the year 2010-2011 and enjoy learning more about plans for the school year.

Crossroads Community Church, of Nampa and Garden Valley, would like to give away backpacks with school supplies to children who are in need of them. They will be at the school at the time of registration until the backpacks are given away. If you are not able to make it to the registration and your children need backpacks, you can call Fred at 462-2395 and ask if they are still available.

For great deals on gently used Kids School Clothes, all sizes, check out Granny's Closet at the Senior Center, 261 S. Middle Fork Road, Crouch. Granny tries her best to take care of GV KIDS. There is a supply of paper and pencils and other miscellaneous items they may need for school. Open Fridays, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Garden Valley Chamber Updates

SEPTEMBER EVENTS COMING UP

*Labor Day Rodeo: Contact Jan Youren.

*September 11/12: UTV/ATV Rally, presented by Blake and Tammy Oseen, of Idaho X-Sports. Rides up Garden Mountain, Silver Creek Mountain and Grimes Creek, escorted by the County Sheriff. 208-462-2555, info@idahosports.com

*September 17-19: Mountain Rendezvous: Classic Motorcycles (Dirty Shame 208-462-2000)

*“Write by the River” Writer’s Retreat/Elaine Ambrose, www.elaineambrose.com

*September 18: Classic Car Show at Yogi’s (208-462-3897)

*Bike-A-Thon fundraiser for Crouch Volunteer Ambulance (208-462-2307)

*Low Country Shrimp Boil fundraiser for GV Fire District. (Only 200 tickets will be sold—get ‘em while they’re hot! Local artists, raffle, no pay just for music. 208-462-4620)


Chamber Prez Greg Simione says, “Business is up!” He attributes it to the work that was put into the “Just Turn Right” signs that lead tourists to Garden Valley. “We have an attractive face when they come into the valley and we have seen nothing but positive growth.”

GV LIBRARY: Dick Goetsch informed members that the library board is looking at ideas anyone might have for fundraising. He said, “The budget will cover the opening; there will be no paved parking lot for awhile and some of the trim will be unfinished. We’ve had a suggestion to ask for donations from people who supported the levy, for what the levy would have been--$40-50.” The fundraising committee will meet soon--anyone willing to help telephone supporters would be welcome. Goetsch says they have $60K in pledges and are looking for another $30-40K. Donations of paving, among other things, would be greatly appreciated. (208-462-3317)

RADIO STATION: Rex LeFevre says GV lacks communication and the station will fulfill that need. “We propose to put together an emergency station. We have to figure out a way to get people to turn on the station. We’d also set up a time folks could tune in to hear local stuff. If you have ideas on where we can put it, let us know. (Rich Smith 208-462-3013)

LES BOIS CREDIT UNION: Eileen St. Denis offers an opportunity to business owners. She’s on the board of the Garden City Library Foundation. They have an online auction website, which filters out to thousands of people. It’s a great op for businesses to get online with this—involves online bids, for non-profit. 9/7-9/23. Call Tami at Les Bois, (208) 462-4222.

GV RECREATION DISTRICT: Acting President Carol Smith says they are working on the Pavilion and have funds for a good deal of it. Hopes are to present it late Fall or Spring. More hopes—they want to have events in Weilmunster Park. They like partnering with local fundraisers, for a “small pittance”.

CROUCH VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE: Donnie Adams and Donna Sevilla reported 31 ambulance runs for July; 10 were airlifted by Air St. Luke’s and 4 by Life Flight.
The 20th Annual Bike-A-Thon, September 18, will provide funds for training and equipment.

GV SCHOOL: Superintendent Mike Tomlin announced the hiring of new principal, Bob Vian, who has moved here from Klamath Falls, with his wife, Sue. 2nd item: The school welcomes the new Biomass Boiler on August 17. The RIBBON CUTTING will be September 13. It is a $2.7M project. Bids are out to eight places in the area, for 400 tons of wood chips. Tomlin stated, “The District paid $12,000 a month for electric heat. This year it may cost $15,000—incredible. Five years ago, we’d have been rich—today, just broke.”

Remember the 4-Day Week: School starts on Monday, August 23; Buses will be on the road at 4 p.m.

WILD BILL'S BISTRO & DAHLIA’S: Bill Hadzor told the Chamber that last week, the Idaho Travel Council met in Hailey, at the Largest Dog in the World. Due to his personable schmoozing, it looks like there’s a good chance they will meet in GV next year.

RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT GROUP: New member Jon Jauregui does business consulting, helping people with strategic planning, quality process improvement and leadership development. (571-264-6498)

Board of Directors election will be Thursday, November 11. All officers will be stepping down. Greg Simione says the Chamber will be heading toward professionally-planned events. He said, “Think about that next level up...having a paid organizer for our four major events and working with people at the State level. Any time you are approached by State Tourism, I advise you to get involved.”

August 14-15 Week-End in Garden Valley

Camping, Hiking, Fishing, Mountain Biking, Theatre, Horseback Riding, Golfing, Canoeing, Rafting, it's all here for you in Garden Valley in the summer.

The Middle Fork River is perfect right now for those slow floats with the kids.

Southfork offers a great venue for water sports.

Beauty Surrounds You Wherever You Go!

Crouch Farmers Market

Saturday, from 9 a.m. to noon:

Garden Fresh Vegetables and Herbs, Pickles, Jams, Pies, Candies, Lavender Products, Homemade Soaps and Creams, Crafts, Photos,
Creative Kitchen Aprons, Hand-spun Woolen Products. Pick Up A Gift For Your Home And Kitchen.

Crouch Merc Specials: Hermiston Watermelons, Local Corn (Nampa),Local Fresh Green Beans (Local as in Eastern Oregon), Fresh Local Peaches, Zucchini, Cucumbers and Hermiston Cantaloupe …..these items will be ready for the Farmers market and for sale beginning Saturday.

Finally, Annie has some great meat selections in the meat case ready for your Summer BBQ’s!

Sweltering in the Treasure Valley? Take a beautiful drive to our town! We are enjoying sunshine with puffy clouds, rivers flowing for your visual and sporting pleasure. As you can see, we are stocked and ready to provide you with plenty of delicious food. If you prefer to dine out, Crouch is ready for you.

If that's not enough, our shops are brimming with clothes, toiletries, antiques, books, jewelry, candles, bedding, hardware, videos, and we even have two second-hand stores to browse in--check out Granny's Closet at the Senior Center, up Middle Fork Road (open Saturdays, 10-4).

Week-ends are for Fun In Garden Valley!

BATS, MOUSE POO, SEWAGE, NOISE, DANCIN’ IN THE STREETS—CROUCH HAS IT ALL!

At the Crouch Council Public Hearing, Wednesday, August 11, Council passed the motion to approve the proposed budget for the fiscal year from October 1, 2010 to September 30, 2011, at $591,033.

County Clerk Kim Bosse gave an update on the Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) the City received to fund energy conservation. There is no space under the building to allow for installing insulation. The discovery of a profuse amount of fecal matter of the rodent kind, in the attic, will add $1,000 to the cost of the project. The unwanted fertilizer will all be vacuumed up with the funky old insulation. Of course, this is pending on the removal of the lone bat who has taken up residence—which will add another $800 for trap and catcher. No problem though; the City has $15,000 for lighting and will make adjustments.

However, this is a problem: The City is in need of a person who is properly licensed to do the interior texturing (for government jobs). Contact the City Clerk at Community Hall.

Waste Water Treatment is moving forward...there is serious talk about purchase of property for the collection system. Gary Ashby, of Forsgren & Associates, said that in preparation for the public hearing, identification of the property is critical. Council Richard Messick said it has been difficult to arouse interest, because he can’t quote a definite user’s fee. Ashby still maintains it should be around $58 a month, but of course the price of the property factors in. There should be no hook-up fees during the initial stage, but if a resident hooks up later, it would apply.

Council President Dawn Smith will serve as the designated City rep to meet with the Bond Council and negotiate land acquisition for the tank site and distribution lines.

Council approved Forsgren’s Scope of Work for the project. They will be forming a Citizen’s Advisory Committee of about 8-10 people, including Council members, area residents and someone from outside the city, in Boise County.

Chamber of Commerce President Greg Simione made an appearance in answer to two items of concern. One was the City Noise Ordinance. There have been some complaints regarding music from the Longhorn Restaurant. It was discussed and residents have admitted they can also hear the Starlight Mountain Theatre and any other loud music, when they are outside their homes. The council assured the merchants in the audience that they had no intentions of closing anything down—just making sure everyone was aware of the situation. Reggae was one irritating culprit and as City Attorney John McFadden remarked, “’Repetitive’ is not in the ordinance!”

The second item Simione addressed was the street closure on Market Street. There has been voiced concern over how merchants might feel, due to parking problems, etc. All merchants present acknowledged it was their idea. Simione said, “After the crash of 2008, there was lots of downward business activity. The merchants wanted to make the street area a gathering place for music, dance and dining (al fresco), which they felt would encourage shopping.” The merchants have organized, planned and designed the area. In the future, they plan on installing benches, seating and even presenting classical ensembles; it will be a good place for Trunk or Treat and Christmas celebrations.

Simione stated, “Our economy is visitors. This area is not an easement, not County, not Utility—it is the Longhorn property. This time next year the big beer truck won’t be in the parking lot, it will be over at the new store location, where there will also be parking.” He asked Council to simply direct concerned residents to the merchants.

John McFadden reported on City Engineer and Attorney duties: “Architects, engineers, lawyers, accountants and surveyors are professional services—you don’t have to go out and bid. It’s definitely not the lowest cost. That’s why you have short-term contracts, not 6 months—you can move on if you are not satisfied.

“$25,000 is the initial amount to go to bid, for public service; $25-100,000 is three contractors; and over $100,000 is for more than three.” He added that the City should do what is in its best interest, if they want it to be competitive. You pick from the best proposal and negotiate a fee.

The City of Crouch Council meets on the second Wednesday of the month. The next Council meeting is September 8, 2010, at Crouch Community Hall. For information, contact the Clerk at 462-4687.

August Garden Valley School Board Business

Under the new “Consent Agenda”, the board approved minutes, treasurer’s report, payment of bills and the resignation of Cheryl Riedinger.

Newly hired Maintenance Director, Codey Huston, thanked the board for hiring him and reported that the wood storage building door is going up and the project is coming to an end; the school is ready for its fall opening; and he is already in training for his job and will begin SBR training for the water system, in October.

Paul Stark, Attorney for Anne Keddy-Hector, who made the Public Records Request which added up to about 6,000 documents, requested that the board waive certain fees, “in the public’s interest”. Stark said there is a presumption that records are open to the public, but that this $5600 bill sends a message to the public that “your records are open if you can afford it.”

Discussion ensued. Then Trustee Alan Ward asked Mr. Stark if his client found what she was looking for. “Do you feel she felt she was looking for something improper?”

Stark appeared to side-step: "Yes, if the District was afraid it did something illegal or did something wrong, I understand they would go through counsel. You don’t have to go to law school to get a sharpie to cut something out.”

The attorney contended that the board could have found someone in the school to do redactions, for $15 an hour. The board protested that they could not use someone in the school, because of the nature of the personal information.

Stark responded that Dr. Tomlin or Paula Fox could have easily done the work. Board trustee Alan Ward sat up and asked, “Did I just hear you right? Did you just tell us that Paula Fox could have redacted her own e-mail documents for your client?”

Stark remarked that he believes his client is reasonable and $5600 is unreasonable. Mrs. Keddy Hector is $5170 in arrears on payment to the District. The board declined to make a decision without discussion and passed a motion to table the item for the present.

New principal Bob Vian has gotten his feet wet this week and said, “It’s been a really exciting day--I’m looking forward to tomorrow." Mr. Vian got a good chance to mingle with community members and staff during executive session.

Athletic Director Bob Powell thanked Kristen Goff and Ben Roeber for taking the kids to camps. He showed off the School of Excellence plaque, which he said was a really close 2nd Place. The first football game of the season will be Friday, August 27, with Rimrock.

The board heard comments from the community, regarding athletic fees of $20, per athlete, per sport, with a maximum of $60 per family, even if there is a fourth sport(excluding activity cards). Georgianna Goetsch commented, “The fee is not out of line; we anticipated from other school fees that it would be higher. It’s a good way to continue with participation.” She added that she thought the Boosters and other school fundraising would be able to take up the slack.

The board passed the motion to approve the fees.

Dr. Tomlin reminded the board that there is no state funding for pre-schoolers. The board has been looking at a $200 fee per three-year-old child and $355 fee per four-year-old child, since May. Tomlin said the program is shared with Horseshoe Bend, and has been adopted by that school already.

Resident Daryl Riedinger commented, “I’d hate to see any discouragement for folks. This is a good program; pre-schoolers that started at the beginning, years ago, graduated this year.” Georgianna Goetsch said, “Previously, the program required participation by parents—fundraising and community involvement.” She suggested the pre-school parents could form their own board and create a self-sustaining program.

There was a question to the board regarding the Keddy-Hector request and the attorney fees possibly depleting funds that could have been used for pre-school. Acting Board Chair Terry Elmore responded that yes, the District’s share of expenses came out of the General Fund.

Elmore informed the community members that there is a “Help Our Kids” fund and that no child will be excluded from sports or pre-school. Alan Ward commented that he would like to be personally involved in helping with the fundraising. The motion was passed to approve the fee.

Dr. Tomlin reported on the State Department requirement for teacher evaluation policy regarding implementation of the “Danielson Model”. “Mr. Vian is well-versed in this model and has used it in the past.”

The board tabled the election of officers, until a fifth member is selected.

Congratulations to Valerie Aker, who was hired as Kindergarten teacher, for full days on Tuesday and Thursday and ½ days the rest of the week; and to GV resident Susie Briggs, who has been hired as First Grade teacher.

SCHOOL BOARD MEETING DISAPPOINTS EVERYONE

At the Monday, August 9, regular school board meeting, many patrons, teachers and students sat waiting through the agenda items, for the show to begin. Channel 7, KTVB, took their now-accustomed position on the side of the room, camera pointed at the action.

Teachers had presented a vote of no confidence statement to the board, which repeated the deprecating slurs they have made on Mike Tomlin's character. Marion Summers, "patron", turned in a confidential document to the board to consider, and then passed it out to the waiting crowd, while the board sat in executive session.

Community members milled about the room, forming groups with the teachers, other patrons and the occasional student. It appeared that many were the complainees, perhaps wondering with Summers "what keeps the board from supporting teachers and staff?", by asking for Tomlin's resignation.

In her letter, Summers says Tomlin "lied", "slandered", "libeled", showed "disrespect towards the community", hired Paula Fox as Human Resources without board approval, and says, "several valuable staff members have left for other positions due to the disrespect and hostile work environment that Dr. Tomlin demonstrates toward most of the staff at Garden Valley School District."

Summers also says she finds "it odd that she (Valerie Aker, newly hired Kindergarten teacher)was hired as a consultant in May and now as a teacher", having known Tomlin for more than 15 years. There are more accusations.

The teachers' statement begins with saying they believe Tomlin "can no longer lead the school through our Mission Statement of respect, responsibility, commitment and integrity." It ends with "our children and school are suffering under leadership that is devoid of trust and integrity. The school healing will only begin with his removal."

One teacher admitted she has no problem with Mike Tomlin, but she feels she has to support her teachers. Another signed the statement because she didn't like the way a part-time staffer was let go. Another signed it because she thinks Tomlin says one thing or another, but she couldn't verbalize what. Does this suggest there is a possibility that some teachers would be open to reconciliation?

Supporters for Dr. Tomlin are no less plentiful, but much less vocal and visible at these meetings. They have a completely different story about Tomlin. One says, "I want to speak out, but don't want to embarrass any teachers by naming so many of them who have been tirelessly supported by Mike Tomlin. Who, for two years, have received his accolades and enthusiastic response to their achievements when they won awards, accomplished certificates and degrees, created programs, coached winning games, organized career fairs, put on craft shows and fundraisers and received academic status. He was there for them, rooting."

Another supporter eating at the Senior Center, said, "It must be difficult to look at yourself in the mirror and remember the reason the baby was in the classroom in the first place was because Mike Tomlin was helping out a young mother, who wanted to try to teach while hoping to remain close to her baby. Against his better judgement, he allowed her to try, quoting a precedent. He was actually being so nice to Cody and Brenna Fisher. Everyone has forgotten that."

Mike Tomlin has a reputation among many as being a gentleman, an intelligent and thoughtful person, and the group of supporters at the meeting see this as nothing less than a witchhunt, which started with a small group, as revenge.

Nonetheless, it has blown up into a full-fledged campaign against the unsuspecting Superintendent who followed popular Stan Kress into the position at the School District. By the end of this board meeting, with no statement from the board, people trailed out with either puzzled, disappointed, disgusted, sad, or slightly hopeful countenances. But it was plainly, painfully clear, no one was happy.

CuMo: Questions, Answers and Dialogue

August 7 Forest Service Meeting
The following Q & A sessions and dialogues took place in an
informal conversation, during the Forest Service meeting at
the Garden Valley Community Hall last Saturday. Lead player was Shaun Dykes, of Vancouver, British Columbia, Exploration Manager of CuMo and Director of Mosquito Consolidated Gold Mines Limited.

Dykes: "We’re spending $100M to study this. It’s a nice mine—profitable. Getting the moly out is the easy part.—we process with water and a bit of diesel fuel... Boise Basin water is locked—to do something up there, we’ve got to get water rights. "( Otherwise, Payette?)
GVDN: The process is viable? Then permits, etc?
Dykes: "There are seven stages. We have one: The moly is there; it’s a nice-sized deposit. It’s low-cost producing—we keep going when the economy goes down. This is large scale—we have the ability to survive when the small guys fail."
GVDN: Any chemicals involved?
Dykes: “Some, but no large amounts of toxic chemicals. (?) It’s very clean. We crush it and use flotation. Moly is a natural fertilizer—check out the garden store—they have spray. Moly decays to become moly-sulfite. The reason it’s not used by farmers is, at $15 a pound, it’s expensive. We want to talk to Simplot—we’ve come up with potential, but still doing studies.
We will inherit the tailings from the gold mines up there. It’s a big area on the map—the actual area is a lot smaller...lots of this land we’re not interested in.We’ve done our studies on moly deposits. As we migrate out, we lose moly, we pick up copper—we ask, will it be worth it to migrate out where we’ll pick up more sulfite. It may not be worth it. We’d rather keep the area clean.
"Moly’s a very nice metal—not much copper sulfite. It can recover from the flotation process.
In order for us to put up vast amounts of money, we inherit part of the puzzle.
Mining has been dragged into the 21st C. Environmentalists and shareholders insist we do it right. On the first day, I said, 'How do we get it out of here?'"
GVDN: How are you going to take the materials out?
Dykes: "I don’t know yet...we have three ways to go: Highway 21, Highway 17 through Garden Valley or Grimes Creek Road, through HSB, down 55. We’ve got to figure that out." (CuMo remarks that the HSB road will be significantly better, due to winding canyon roads and the transportation along the Boise river corridor.)
GVDN: They say you’re going to take the whole mountain down—that’s a lot of trucks!
***
Dykes: "Phase 2 takes us to pre-feasibility; that $100M permit takes us to feasibility.
Next part, we’ll need more exploration or say it’s not quite right. We look at feasibility, site selection, concerns, how to integrate in."
GVDN: What agencies do you have to deal with?
Dykes: "Agencies involved? About 100. Forest Service, EPA, County, my binders for permits, etc., just for the government, are 2’ high. "
GVDN: What about reclamation of the land after it’s all over? I understand you plan to reclaim the temporary roads as you go along.
Dykes: "Any mine unit is going to get ugly—but a small area. Only one or two places you can see. Over time, the waste dump will get reclaimed—reclaimed areas in other places now have bison, buffalo feeding. (Nevada and British Columbia have reclaimed tailings ponds; bison and cattle feed on the rich vegetation.)
"Amazon jungle is rich—moly-rich soil --it fixes the nitrogen in. There is a bit of moly left in tailings. From our analysis, there is nothing in them...granite, iron, copper, carbonate-rich..unlike Thompson Creek. The carbonate neutralizes the small amount of pyrite." (The pyrite content in the rock at Thompson Creek Mine is several times higher than CuMo, resulting in acidic pit waters. Studies, so far, have shown CuMo has low pyrite content.)
GVDN: What’s in it for us?
Dykes: "Taxes!! Salaries—payroll—look at our economic analysis--$3-4-500M in taxes.
In modern mining... there are pits in AZ, they set up truck-driving school; locals can apply and train. They then have a guaranteed job at the mine. We try to use local resources. It is to our advantage to hire helpers to train. Drillers, truck drivers, we have a hard time supplying work force—it’s one of our biggest problems. Also, we work with “First Natives” work force."
GVDN: Environmental impact?
Dykes: "Now we worry about every impact. We could come up with a rare toad or snake. Studies say the impact of potential operation-site is small. For Garden Valley, we’re “over there." Not near the Payette.
"Guarantee!
"Our only involvement with it would be water delivery. (Payette?)
We have to be good citizens. Grimes Creek is contaminated. It has to be dealt with sooner or later. Mercury takes a long time to decay—those little mercury balls that old placer miners left.
We have to study every tree, fish, wildlife, habitat, air. It will take about 1 ½ years for environmental assessment. We’ve done exhaustive studies of the areas onsite." (CuMo claims the contamination from Grimes Creek has never reached the Boise River in 100 years-- contamination caused by historic placers and hard rock mining, human habitation and logging.)
GVDN: When will you start?
Dykes: "With the permit? With drilling, we’ll use 40-50 people. ..assuming the drill holes have mineralization, it will be 6-15 years to come to a decision."
GVDN: How long before you are done with the site?
Dykes: "100 years? It develops in stages. I take them up to feasibility—I’m an exploration geologist. For me, then, it’s three things: Go, No Go, On Hold. That’s the $100M—just to feasibility. I liaise with important partners—where the money will come from.
It’s a win-win for the area: 1) An investment. 2) Local jobs. 3) Clean up the environmental legacy of the area—there are lots of dumps on Cunningham’s land; a mess of sulfites.
It takes millions of legacy funds for reforestation, to clean up the zinc, etc. For re-designing the creek. I get involved because I’m an engineer. Why do I do this? Because of the steelheads! I'm from British Columbia!
"What is moly used for? Gas pipes, nuclear reactors, wind turbines. You can add 2-4-6% of moly to steel—it adds to the cost. It is a catalyst when used with dirty water." (Also used for desalination plants for fresh water, as a catalyst diesel fuel we use every day and it is rapidly becoming a critical metal of green technology and alternative technology.)

"Moly is just starting to take off. "


Pam Conley, representative of Idaho Families for Clean Water and President of the Golden Eagle Audoban, shared some thoughts with local CuMo Project Manager, Nick G:
Conley: “We’re going to have mining; we need to do it right. Right now, there is not a level playing field—it works more toward favoring mining. It can’t be done any more under laws that are so old.” (Under the 1872 Mining Laws, hard rock mining pays no royalties, which would go into a fund to help the local people deal with the problems mining leaves behind.)
*Conley is concerned that some areas aren’t appropriate for mining ventures; especially watershed areas.
Nick: “There needs to be a balance; reforms have to be thought out long-term.”
Conley: “The Corporation is about the pay-off to investors...the bottom line, legally, is the pay-off.”
Nick: “Would you say getting closer, coming together with ecological concerns and mining, logging, etcetera, could help communication?”

Conley: “We drive cars, build housing—we have to look at the big picture...yes, we have to eliminate the line in the sand. There will come a time when we are unsustained.
We want a say, right from the get-go. In a way, we’re not talking about the mine—just exploration. The scope is so huge. Five times larger than Thompson Creek. – moly mine is mega mine.
"We want to raise people’s awareness. These Garden Valley folks will be highly involved. We (Idaho Families for Clean Water) requested the Forest Service to have this public meeting. Our job is to let the public know what’s going on.”
Nick: “There are not a lot of facts in science—you find out what is not true. This company is concerned about reality behind the message.”
Conley: “They are doing this for the money. We need local people like you to work with this company.”
Nick: “I wonder why the (local newspaper) never responded—never called us back when we called about this. You want the public to get the facts, not off of our website.”
Conley: “This meeting today is about the roads only. We get our information off of the website. Idaho has a history of mining problems. We don’t want to have more problems with watershed.”
Nick: “There is no monetary advantage? Boise River people...”
Conley: “Idaho Families is for clean water. We’re just pro-active, to protect the river. I don’t think we’ve shut down your exploration.”
Nick: “I think there is no forum for the two sides. We use scientific methods to provide facts to the population.”
Conley: “We’re going to watch those facts; we have no control over how people interpret those facts.”
Nick: “I’m concerned about misrepresentation of facts.”
Conley: “Maybe you should change your information for the public on your website. That’s where we go...Well, I’m glad local guys are working on this. I can say, there is no money in it. My heart’s definitely in the environment.”
Nick: “That’s reassuring.”

Photos: (Top) Molybdenum is the silvery-grey in the rock. Different parts of the rock show the geology of the rock--how it came into being, by flowing into the other at different times. (Bottom) Mike Uhl cuts rocks at the Garden Valley office/library. Here he shows part of a skeleton; these are taken every ten feet on a particular hole.
Nick G, Project Manager in Garden Valley, says, “We certainly have a large group of Idahoans working in the exploration produce. Mike Uhl brings a lot of skills to the table, things I couldn’t do.”

A worker at the Moly library in GV said, “I don’t care what I’m cutting—half of the rock is analyzed and half is kept for the library...that’s the greatest part of the job—I get to see something no one has ever seen before, when I cut into that rock.”

Michael Feiger, Forest Service,suggested people look at the EA Cumo Project and Fisheries Report, http://fs.usda.gov/boise. He said, “The Boise River people are voicing concerns relative to proposed roads, proposed action impact on rivers and the environment.

CROUCH CITY COUNCIL: Public Hearing and August Council Meeting

CITY OF CROUCH Agenda
Public Hearing and Regular Scheduled Council Meeting
August 11, 2010 – 6:30pm
Crouch Community Hall – 1022 Old Crouch Road

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing and regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Crouch, Idaho will be held in the Crouch Community Hall, 1022 Old Crouch Road, Crouch Idaho, on Wednesday, August 11, 2010at 6:30 p.m. Community Hall and City Offices are accessible for persons with disabilities. Any person needing special accommodations to participate in the meeting should contact City Clerk, Kim Bosse, or Jody Waltman at 462-4687 at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.

Public Hearing
• Call to Order
• Roll Call
• Annual Appropriations Ordinance Discussion
• Vote on Annual Appropriations Ordinance
• Adjourn Public Hearing

Regular Meeting of the Council
• Treasurer's Report- Kim Bosse
◊ Street Fund CD #7 Matures on 8/22/10 ($7,978.02)
◊ CD #6 matures on 8/22/10 ($10,628.65)
◊ Bailey Co. Financial Review Report

• Approval of Minutes – July 21, 2010
• Grant Activities
◊ EECBG update- Kim Bosse
◊ Waste Water Treatment Discussion
 Forsgren – Water treatment schedule
 Potential Property discussion
◊ LTACH – Forsgren Scope of Work approval
◊ IDOC- Jerome Mapp update
• Land Use/Zoning

• Community Hall/Clerk Report
◊ Jody Waltman

• Scheduled Delegations
◊ Noise regulation down town

• Unscheduled Delegations
• Correspondence – See folder
• New Business
◊ Gerold Dennett- Regarding street closure by Longhorn

• Old Business
◊ John McFadden report of City Engineer and Attorney duties

• Miscellaneous and Routine Matters.
• Adjournment –
Next Council Meeting is September 8, 2010

SUPPORT OUR FIRE DISTRICT & VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 IS OUR CHANCE TO SUPPORT OUR

GARDEN VALLEY FIRE DISTRICT AND CROUCH VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE

AND HAVE A GREAT TIME!

FUN FOR MOM, DAD AND KIDS

THESE FOLKS WORK FOR US. LET'S EAT, DANCE AND PLAY FOR THEM!!!

!!!! CROUCH VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE BRINGS BACK!!!!

!!!!KID'S BIKE-A-THON!!!!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

9:00-11:00 a.m.

REGISTRATION FORMS AVAILABLE

At: GV School beginning August 30

and some businesses around town.

CALL 462-2307

Temporary road closure on Middle Fork Road, from former

Bass Mountain Goods (668 S. Miidle Fork Rd)

to Stop Sign at Highway 17.

Garden Valley Week-End : August 6-9

Jason Collingwood instructs student.
UK MASTER WEAVER COMES TO GARDEN VALLEY
August 6-9

The countryside in Suffolk, England, is where Jason Collingwood calls home. In a schoolhouse in the Victorian village of Nayland, Collingwood continues the work his father, renowned master weaver Peter Collingwood, taught him for twenty years.

Peter Collingwood’s book, Techniques of Rug Weaving, is considered the rug weaver’s bible. Collingwood passed away in October, 2008, and Jason Collingwood is already well-known in his own right. His rugs have been exhibited widely throughout the UK, Europe and the United States.

Georgianna Goetsch has invited Collingwood to Garden Valley, to teach in a workshop on August 6-9. Collingwood has a reputation of being a wonderful teacher. His depth of knowledge is remarkable and not surprising, considering who his mentor was and the fact that he has been weaving only rugs, for twenty-two years. Students say his workshops are very informative, he’s extremely patient and he has a great sense of humor. He spends at least three months a year, teaching in the U.S., Canada and Switzerland.

Although the workshop is filled, the public is welcome to stop by the the GV School Flex Room, between 10:00-3:00, to view the work of the weavers and meet Jason Collingwood. Goetsch says, “This is a rare opportunity for our community to meet a master weaver of Collingwood’s status and talent.”

The school is located on Hwy. 17, 1053 Banks-Lowman Road, Garden Valley, 13 miles from Banks.

CROUCH FARMERS MARKET
SATURDAY 9:OO-NOON

Pick out the freshest produce available, stock up on pies, jams, breads and a multitude of treats for your week-end guests. Beautiful crafts, furniture, art, herbal products, and more, will inspire you to give a gift or tempt you to carry home treasures from our talented artisans.
EAT
Have a late breakfast or a leisurely lunch at Wild Bill's or the Longhorn or pick up a picnic at the Merc. Walk down the street and check out The Shame, inside and out.

Be sure to visit all of our shops, listen to music and visit our historic library to buy a handmade tote bag -- perfect to hold that produce you bought.
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CROUCH -- ONE-STOP SHOPPING

CuMO PROJECT PUBLIC MEETING:
Learn More About Protecting Boise River

The Forest Service is holding a public meeting to inform the public about the CuMO Project and to answer your questions. For more informaton on the CuMO Project, check out the BLOG here at GV Daily News.

The meeting will be held in Downtown Crouch, at the Community Hall, on Saturday, August 7, from Noon to 3:00 p.m.
GV MUSTANG SALLIES PLAY DAY
Saturday, August 7, 7 a.m. and Onwards~

You ain't been here in the Valley til you've checked out these horsey ladies. The Up & Coming Western Drill Team will put on an exhibition, play Equine Soccer and Games at the Fry Arena, on Banks Lowman Road, near the Crouch turn-off. Watch for signs.

Garden Valley Library Levy Vote Fails

Garden Valley taxpayers voted thumbs down, 192-103, on the $250,000 supplemental levy election, Tuesday, August 3.

Due to fluctuations in the cost of building materials and labor, the Board of Trustees opted to go for the levy, for funds needed to finish the interior of the new library, which is under construction on Old Crouch Road.

Board Chairman Rich Wilson responded after the vote: "We will be looking harder at private donors and scaling back what we can, so we can get the doors open"

The board will also be looking at grant applications.

Update on New Garden Valley Market

Market due to open March 2011 "Yes, the rumors in the Valley are true," according to Crouch Merc co-owner Greg Simione. The long awaited financing has been funded and the City of Crouch was able to get the Water Grant, which depended upon the Merc receiving final approval.

Merc owners Gerold Dennett and Simione want to thank all of their customers for their support and understanding throughout this long journey. Simione says, "We also want to thank and acknowledge two companies, White-Leasure Development (Larry Leasure) and Les Bois Federal Credit Union (Ken Clifford), for their tireless and relentless efforts to secure funding and keep the project alive."

After all of the waiting and apprehension, the most satisfying conclusion has happened: After many twists and turns, Garden Valley residents will see construction begin on a new Grocery Store and a new Credit Union.

The town will have a store, supported by a local financial institution, with local contractor participation at several levels and catering to the local Valley population.

Simione says people can expect lots of behind the scenes work going on (ordering construction material, etc.), and construction beginning within two weeks.

The partners are still looking for a Pharmacist willing to lease the Pharmacy space they are building inside the store.

With a perfect schedule, Dennett and Simione plan on a grand opening in March of 2011.

Grassroots Fundraising Works: Another Tote-Sew Day To Support New Garden Valley Library

The Friends of the Garden Valley Library and Garden Valley Quilter's Guild will hold another sewing day, to create Tote Bags to raise funds for the new Library.

Sewers will meet at the Senior Center again, 9:00 a.m. to about 3:00 p.m., on Wednesday, August 11th. Bring your sewing machine, walking foot if you have one, extra bobbins, customary sewing tools (scissors, seam ripper, tape measure, sturdy pins, etc.), and your lunch. They will provide beverages, dessert, napkins, kits, needles, thread and instruction.

If a few hours is all you have to offer that day--they'll take it! Don't be shy--all help accepted and appreciated!

And again, many thanks are offered to the ladies who sewed so industriously for the first "Tote-Sew" Day at the Senior Center (men are welcome too!). Everyone made excellent progress! If you have suggestions, they're very receptive! Longer handles in canvas, working in production mode for those who wish, and individual snips/trash bags for each sewer are three ideas they will be prepared for.

Call Christy Jauregui at 462-2437 or e-mail christyjauregui@yahoo.com for info or suggestions.

Garden Valley School Board Hires New Principal

Bob Vian listens to concerned parents at Meet the Candidate social.

At a special meeting of the Garden Valley School Board, Monday, August 1, Bob Vian of Klamath Falls, Oregon, was hired as Principal of the Garden Valley Schools.

Robert (Bob) Vian is coming from Ponderosa Junior High School in Klamath Falls, Oregon, where he has served as principal since 2006. He previously served as principal of a 7-12 school, assistant principal in a high school, and dean of students. He holds a bachelor of science degree, a masters degree with 27 additional hours beyond, and is fully certificated as a school administrator. Bob also served one term in the Oregon State Legislature.

As a science teacher, Bob taught Physics, Accelerated Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth Science, and many other subjects. He has coached track, and assisted with other sports.

Under Bob’s leadership, his schools have improved student attendance; he establishes weekly communications with parents, has developed Extended Day programs for students at risk and programs for gifted and/or accelerated students.

Bob and his wife Sue are Boise State fans, as their son played at BSU. Both of their sons live in Boise, along with their grandchildren. One reason for considering Garden Valley is that their adult children will be "just the right distance away – close but not too close.”

"We could not be more pleased," says Superintendent Mike Tomlin. "Bob has a lengthy and exemplary record of achievement as a principal. He won't have to learn the job - he knows the job."

In other Board action, Ronice Gilbertson was hired from the Meridian School District, to teach Business and serve as IDLA Site Coordinator. Ronice (Ronnie) is certified in PTE Business, Social Studies, Political Science, and Library Science. She holds a bachelors degree from Northern Arizona University, and a second bachelors (suma cum laude) from Mayville State University. Her interests include 4H, Scouting, endurance riding, sport motorcycling, and computers.

The Board also hired Codey Huston for the position of Maintenance Director for the District. Codey is a Wolverine through and through, graduating from GVHS in 2005. He was in National Honor Society, has received an American Legion Citizen Award and currently works for the District in Maintenance. Codey will work toward his water operators licensing, as he oversees the facility operations of the school and old and new campuses.

The School District congratulates and welcomes its new employees.

School Board to Appoint Zone II Trustee and New School Principal

The Garden Valley School Board Trustees will hold a special meeting on Monday, August 2, 2010, at 6:00 p.m., to discuss and consider the appointment of a trustee to fill the vacancy in Zone II. The new board member will be sworn in at the meeting.

In executive session, board trustees will discuss personnel issues. They will also consider the motion to hire a Business Teacher for 2010-2011 and consider the motion to hire a Maintenance Director.

Interviews with four candidates for the position of school principal have been conducted over the past two weeks. Board trustees will consider the motion to hire a Garden Valley School Principal, during executive session.

The board reserves the right to change the agenda prior to or at the meeting.