A Thursday night pool tournament in Garden Valley ended with tragedy, when ace player Greg King missed his shot, said he felt dizzy and collapsed to the floor.
Dirty Shame Saloon patrons became silent as fellow players tried to revive the fallen man, knowing from his history that he most probably was having a heart attack. Just a week ago, he was given a clean bill of health from the VA, and friends say he had complained that, after his first attack, he was put on "this ridiculous diet" which he unhappily adhered to.
Crouch Ambulance volunteer EMTs administered care and, because Life Flight helicopters were unable to fly due to fog, made a rendezvous to meet their ground crew in Horseshoe Bend. King did not survive the trip.
Greg King was considered to be the best pool player in the area. He was an excellent coach and gave advice to anyone who wanted it. A perfectionist who wanted to win every game, he bought a new pair of shoes to wear before every season. People who knew him say he died doing what he loved best.
It is no secret that King, who also loved to golf, was planning to foot the bill for his memorial party at the Dirty Shame. "In fact," one admirer of his says, "He was going to put a $1,000 deposit at all three bars in Crouch. He had a great sense of humor!"
Greg King's brother, daughter, sister and son-in-law will be in Garden Valley, at 208-462-5502, if friends would like to contact them.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Dawn Smith's Life Celebrated
Last night’s celebration of Dawn Smith’s life drew almost 300 community members, her family and friends from out-of-town. Hugs and loving greetings abounded throughout the large multi-purpose room at Garden Valley School, before and after the lovely service, presented by her family.Dawn’s mother, Diane Bryan, said when her daughter was born on September 16, 1965, she never expected to be standing here saying these things. She spoke humorously about Dawn being a middle child and asking if she could be called the “Middle Chicken”, determining to earn the title of the loudest and best of the roost. The audience was treated to an exhibition of Dawn’s unbelievably long gum-wrapper chain, which mom said probably cost her $10,000 for the orthodontist.
City of Crouch Mayor, Bob Powell, spoke of Dawn’s generosity as a friend and neighbor, saying, “She worked for all of you.” What he mentioned next, many friends and acquaintances recognized as the greeting Dawn had made uniquely hers: “HEY, you,” said with a warmth and connection that made the recipient feel especially singled out.
A minute of sympathetic silence passed as Greg Simione paused in his grief and then continued to remark upon Dawn’s representation of an ideal: “Her primary job, always, was her kids; second, real estate; third, Crouch Council; and fourth, the school board. I never knew when she was tired, with the exception of when she said it.”
The co-owner of the Merc and recently “retired” Garden Valley Chamber president continued, “I hope I can live up to her ideal. There she was, supporting a community effort (the night she died). It demonstrates value—I’ll miss the value she created. We’re so happy she made Garden Valley her home.”
Pastor Ernest Updike spoke of this difficult time of reckoning with the loss of Dawn. “It is a precious time, though...in the eight years she was here, she made a huge impact and our job is to carry it on.”
Dawn was busy raising three children, Zachary, 17, Tanner, 13, and Hayden, 11, when she went away. The highlight of the memorial celebration was the slide show made by Dawn’s daughter, Hayden, which expressed everything that couldn’t be said about the 45 years of her mother’s dear, free-hearted, immeasurable life.
Pastor Updike closed the celebration service by announcing the potluck which followed and said, “This is like Dawn. She really liked getting a lot of people together to enjoy food—I’m really glad she wants to do that with us tonight.”
Diane Caughlin summed up the service: “It was the most uplifting memorial I’ve ever been to. It really was a celebration!” A lady speaking to Pastor Updike said smiling, “Dawn had so much energy circulating through this valley, it’s still moving around here. I can feel her.”
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
GV Cancellations For Wednesday, January 26
THE FOLLOWING WILL BE CANCELLED OR CLOSED FOR DAWN SMITH MEMORIAL:
Garden Valley Post Office: Closed at 4:45 p.m. Will not affect mail collection.
Senior Center: Weight Challenge cancelled.
Garden Valley Post Office: Closed at 4:45 p.m. Will not affect mail collection.
Senior Center: Weight Challenge cancelled.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Crouch City Council Wants Your Questions on Wastewater System
At the January 12 meeting, Council had planned
on a presentation of the Rural Development federal assistance application, but Forsgren associate Gary Ashby could not appear. He did speak to Mayor Bob Powell and President of the Council, Dawn Smith, about the Crouch sewage system. The mayor signed the application, for the amount of $2,610,000, which is the wastewater treatment project cost.
on a presentation of the Rural Development federal assistance application, but Forsgren associate Gary Ashby could not appear. He did speak to Mayor Bob Powell and President of the Council, Dawn Smith, about the Crouch sewage system. The mayor signed the application, for the amount of $2,610,000, which is the wastewater treatment project cost.
If you need information regarding the Wastewater Treatment System in Crouch, contact City Clerk Kim Bosse, at 208-462-4687 or cityofcrouch@frontiernet.net. Forsgren and Associates will compile a list of frequently asked questions, with answers, and make them available to residents. This is an attempt to begin the process of communication with the community. A public hearing will follow, but has not been scheduled.
~
The Energy Efficiency Grant has been extended to March 31.
City Clerk has been receiving bids for insulation installment. By the evidence (see photo), it looks like someone got the job!
Community Hall rentals have been going strong--the yearly average is 115 and in 2010, rentals were up to 117, with an income of $3,275.
40 families were provided with food for Christmas, by Western Idaho Community Action Partnership (WICAP). The City Council has formed a partnership with them to help locally serve the community. Thanks to Jan and Leigh Ward, of Warm Springs Greenhouse, for Poinsettias donated to patrons.
The City is happy to have received 38 business license renewals this month; every penny counts.
Kim Bosse spoke to an insurance agent, regarding the James Castle artwork belonging to the City. She was advised to get an appraisal and the City will strive to get the works sealed to protect against dust.
Boise County Commissioner Jamie Anderson informed the Council that the Crouch bridge and Davey's Bridge (on Banks Lowman Road) are separate projects and both are waiting on right-of way acquisition, as is Alder Creek Bridge.
On recommendation of City Attorney, John McFadden, the Council tabled consideration of records destruction (by shredding), to be on next month's agenda. They did jump into the fire and decide to transfer old records to State Archives. There are some interesting files, such as the 1951 slot machine records.
Garden Valley Daily News wants to offer condolences to Crouch City Council members, for the devastating loss of their president, Dawn Smith. She was an integral part of the Council and City, and her expertise, guidance and energetic presence will be sorely missed.
For information on City Council news, contact City Clerk, Kim Bosse, at 208-462-4687. The next meeting will be February 9, 2011, 6:30 p.m., at Crouch Community Hall, 1022 Old Crouch Road, Downtown Crouch.
Dawn Smith Memorial & Benefit Fund
The family of Dawn Smith would like to invite the community to a celebration of her life.
The service will take place at the Garden Valley School, 1053 Banks Lowman Road, in the multi-purpose room, on Wednesday, January 26, 5:30 p.m.
Please plan to stay for the potluck afterwards.
It is requested that guests bring a dish according to last names:
A-F: Main Dish; G-L: Salad; M-R: Bread or Vegetable; S-Z: Dessert
For information, contact Toni Palmiotto, at 208-462-4620 or ToniP@gardenvalleyproperties.com.
BENEFIT ACCOUNT INFORMATION:
The Dawn Smith Benefit Account has been set up at Les Bois Federal Credit Union, for Dawn's three children. Deposits may be made at the GV branch in Downtown Crouch, by transfer, wire, night deposit or by phone at 208-462-4222. Open hours are 9-5:30 (please note early 5:00 closing on 1/26 for memorial.)
The service will take place at the Garden Valley School, 1053 Banks Lowman Road, in the multi-purpose room, on Wednesday, January 26, 5:30 p.m.
Please plan to stay for the potluck afterwards.
It is requested that guests bring a dish according to last names:
A-F: Main Dish; G-L: Salad; M-R: Bread or Vegetable; S-Z: Dessert
For information, contact Toni Palmiotto, at 208-462-4620 or ToniP@gardenvalleyproperties.com.
BENEFIT ACCOUNT INFORMATION:
The Dawn Smith Benefit Account has been set up at Les Bois Federal Credit Union, for Dawn's three children. Deposits may be made at the GV branch in Downtown Crouch, by transfer, wire, night deposit or by phone at 208-462-4222. Open hours are 9-5:30 (please note early 5:00 closing on 1/26 for memorial.)
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Death of Dawn Smith Stuns Garden Valley
Dawn Smith left her life as she lived it--over an embankment, climb back up and take it again fearlessly--ever the one to go at whatever she did emphatically, courageously and with a laugh.It was not the way she planned it. She had three beloved children, her life had come together again with love and there was so much to live for. She was planted firmly in this community. Her business acumen, intelligence and empathy for others were evident as a school board trustee, real estate broker and president of the City Council. The many who knew her are mourning her now.
Friday night she took her last snowmobile run. After climbing up the embankment she had gone over with her friend, she was hit by a speeding snowmobile and died of the blunt force, though at present, it is not known what actually happened to end her life. The incident is under investigation by the Sheriff's Department.
Family and friends are planning celebrations of her life. There is no doubt that Dawn will be there too--never one to miss a good party.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
What Do You Think About Job Creation in Garden Valley?
Participants at the January 13 meeting for the Garden Valley Job Creation/Retention Council offered their input on the values they would like to see considered in, and the visons they have for, job creation in the community. They included the strengths and weaknesses they see in the area, the opportunities it might provide, the threats that might prevent the Council from succeeding and any additional comments.
John Cottingham has been the picture of that ole cliche "a house afire" since he left the Boise County Planning and Zoning Board and decided to pursue his dream of creating a job council in the county. He and his cohort, John Jauregui, are asking community members to review the content of these responses below and propose a Values Statement and a Vision Statement, each not to exceed 35 words, that express your ideas of what the Council could stand for. Don't be afraid to be lofty, but keep it compact. You can post it here or mail it to John Cottingham, P.O. Box 802, Garden Valley, Idaho 83622; cottinghamj@aol.com or to Cottingham or John Jauregui at info@gvchamber.org. The Council or Chamber may be reached at 208-462-5003.
VALUES
* Supportive
* Family Values
* Community Spirit
* Integrity
* Loving & caring
* Loyalty
* Don’t change the values, but make it healthy financially for the sake of the people of Garden Valley.
• Free running rivers
• Beautiful vistas
• Privacy
• The community looks like a real Idaho town – change Crouch – new Merc is OK – keep a Western feel
• Wildlife & Birds
• Respect Environment
• Natural Resource Protection
• Entrepreneurial spirit
• Destination for visitors
• Quality
• Work ethics
• Trust
• Community representation
• Local business use of = available to everyone
• Protect the environment
• A place for families
• A spirit of contribution to the community
• A place for children of the community to be challenged and find successful careers
VISION
*A bedroom community to Boise, with appeal to visitors nation-wide
*A beautiful resort town huddled in the mountains that provides recreation of all sorts & job opportunities, including a career, school & college extension courses.
*Development of an employed middle class without degradation of the environment (right now we have seniors/retirees & young families scraping by)
• Everyone is your neighbor. Always someone around to lend a hand or socialize with.
• We value our western heritage, open pastures for stock and wildlife alike, small town atmosphere, cabins nestled in the forest, wild and woolly whitewater and 4th of July fireworks, meeting friends and family in town, open hearts, open range and the chance to make a life and a wage free of oppression and coercion.
• Solvency
• Maximum employment opportunities
• Clean land & water
• Green
• Clean & natural environment
• Community of involved, trusting residents, living & working in GV
• Responsible growth
• Infrastructure improvement
• Peaceful/stillness/physical environment
• Small town relationships due to low population
• Open space, vistas, low traffic, low population
• Integrity
• Ethical behavior
• Family unity
• Supportive of one another
• Community support
• Camaraderie
• Warm, friendly environment
• Helping hand
• Respect for diversity
* Assisted living & Long-Term Care Center- provides a nice balance of professional & unskilled labor jobs.
* Concert series in Crouch Community Hall with Country & Folk & New Age artists.
• Better employment opportunities
• Lower commuting to Boise for employment
* We see a bright future for Garden Valley where all can thrive environmentally, financially and commercially, while sustaining our unique western lifestyle, family values and entrepreneurial spirit.
* To create, reinforce and maintain an honorable, clean, environmentally healthy environment for our children, adults and the elderly and the wildlife with which we share the mountains, rivers and forests.
• Economic prosperity
• Joblessness eradicated
• Enhance city center to accommodate all needs without commercializing the valley
• Keep as many products locally manufactured
• Make the valley a bedrock of cooperative enterprises
* A place where we and our children find meaningful contributions that challenges us and lead to success.
STRENGTHS
• Beauty
• Ambulance
• Dirt roads
• Rural atmosphere/lifestyle
• Not living next to people
• Not having zoo-like atmosphere of Sun Valley/McCall, lets people have free fun without ruining the environment.
• Location to major city
• Access to recreation
• Natural Resources
• New school, new library, new clinic
• Beautiful, healthy valley
• Friendly community groups
• Close to Boise
• River fun – outdoor recreation
• Agriculture
• Friendly/collegial community
• Pristine natural environment
• Maintains western charm
WEAKNESSES
• Cell tower
• Diverse opinions on growth
• Infrastructure
• Lack of jobs
• Remote
• Improve accessibility
OPPORTUNITIES
• National Guard may not be the best. What type of town are we building?
• Image improvement
• Cultural festivals
• Use park on river
• CUMO
* Something like a SIKES call center if we had a T1 data line here.
• Do a survey of what skills already exist here.
• Engage the retired community
• Maintain a community resume
THREATS
• Too redneck orientation, keep political opinions more open
• Sparse law enforcement; they are good, but they are spread too thin
• Lack of pride in property appearance & general aesthetics
• Apathy: job and population growth; many are happy with ”status quo”
• Property values prohibit middle class buyers from owning a home
• Loose building codes & zoning laws
• Change of quality of life
• Change rural lifestyle (i.e. small town grows big)
• Accessibility
REMARKS
* Supporting new small businesses to let people know they are there & help support them by shopping there even when the weather is not the greatest.
* More local support for the local businesses.
* Blake’s Idea – Outdoor Idaho come here for 4th of July.
John Cottingham has been the picture of that ole cliche "a house afire" since he left the Boise County Planning and Zoning Board and decided to pursue his dream of creating a job council in the county. He and his cohort, John Jauregui, are asking community members to review the content of these responses below and propose a Values Statement and a Vision Statement, each not to exceed 35 words, that express your ideas of what the Council could stand for. Don't be afraid to be lofty, but keep it compact. You can post it here or mail it to John Cottingham, P.O. Box 802, Garden Valley, Idaho 83622; cottinghamj@aol.com or to Cottingham or John Jauregui at info@gvchamber.org. The Council or Chamber may be reached at 208-462-5003.
VALUES
* Supportive
* Family Values
* Community Spirit
* Integrity
* Loving & caring
* Loyalty
* Don’t change the values, but make it healthy financially for the sake of the people of Garden Valley.
• Free running rivers
• Beautiful vistas
• Privacy
• The community looks like a real Idaho town – change Crouch – new Merc is OK – keep a Western feel
• Wildlife & Birds
• Respect Environment
• Natural Resource Protection
• Entrepreneurial spirit
• Destination for visitors
• Quality
• Work ethics
• Trust
• Community representation
• Local business use of = available to everyone
• Protect the environment
• A place for families
• A spirit of contribution to the community
• A place for children of the community to be challenged and find successful careers
VISION
*A bedroom community to Boise, with appeal to visitors nation-wide
*A beautiful resort town huddled in the mountains that provides recreation of all sorts & job opportunities, including a career, school & college extension courses.
*Development of an employed middle class without degradation of the environment (right now we have seniors/retirees & young families scraping by)
• Everyone is your neighbor. Always someone around to lend a hand or socialize with.
• We value our western heritage, open pastures for stock and wildlife alike, small town atmosphere, cabins nestled in the forest, wild and woolly whitewater and 4th of July fireworks, meeting friends and family in town, open hearts, open range and the chance to make a life and a wage free of oppression and coercion.
• Solvency
• Maximum employment opportunities
• Clean land & water
• Green
• Clean & natural environment
• Community of involved, trusting residents, living & working in GV
• Responsible growth
• Infrastructure improvement
• Peaceful/stillness/physical environment
• Small town relationships due to low population
• Open space, vistas, low traffic, low population
• Integrity
• Ethical behavior
• Family unity
• Supportive of one another
• Community support
• Camaraderie
• Warm, friendly environment
• Helping hand
• Respect for diversity
* Assisted living & Long-Term Care Center- provides a nice balance of professional & unskilled labor jobs.
* Concert series in Crouch Community Hall with Country & Folk & New Age artists.
• Better employment opportunities
• Lower commuting to Boise for employment
* We see a bright future for Garden Valley where all can thrive environmentally, financially and commercially, while sustaining our unique western lifestyle, family values and entrepreneurial spirit.
* To create, reinforce and maintain an honorable, clean, environmentally healthy environment for our children, adults and the elderly and the wildlife with which we share the mountains, rivers and forests.
• Economic prosperity
• Joblessness eradicated
• Enhance city center to accommodate all needs without commercializing the valley
• Keep as many products locally manufactured
• Make the valley a bedrock of cooperative enterprises
* A place where we and our children find meaningful contributions that challenges us and lead to success.
STRENGTHS
• Beauty
• Ambulance
• Dirt roads
• Rural atmosphere/lifestyle
• Not living next to people
• Not having zoo-like atmosphere of Sun Valley/McCall, lets people have free fun without ruining the environment.
• Location to major city
• Access to recreation
• Natural Resources
• New school, new library, new clinic
• Beautiful, healthy valley
• Friendly community groups
• Close to Boise
• River fun – outdoor recreation
• Agriculture
• Friendly/collegial community
• Pristine natural environment
• Maintains western charm
WEAKNESSES
• Cell tower
• Diverse opinions on growth
• Infrastructure
• Lack of jobs
• Remote
• Improve accessibility
OPPORTUNITIES
• National Guard may not be the best. What type of town are we building?
• Image improvement
• Cultural festivals
• Use park on river
• CUMO
* Something like a SIKES call center if we had a T1 data line here.
• Do a survey of what skills already exist here.
• Engage the retired community
• Maintain a community resume
THREATS
• Too redneck orientation, keep political opinions more open
• Sparse law enforcement; they are good, but they are spread too thin
• Lack of pride in property appearance & general aesthetics
• Apathy: job and population growth; many are happy with ”status quo”
• Property values prohibit middle class buyers from owning a home
• Loose building codes & zoning laws
• Change of quality of life
• Change rural lifestyle (i.e. small town grows big)
• Accessibility
REMARKS
* Supporting new small businesses to let people know they are there & help support them by shopping there even when the weather is not the greatest.
* More local support for the local businesses.
* Blake’s Idea – Outdoor Idaho come here for 4th of July.
Chamber of Commerce News
Thanks to John Jauregui for providing minutes from all meetings.
Chamber Board
Co-President Diane Caughlin opened the meeting at 5 p.m., Thursday, January 13, in the Outfitter’s Trading Post business conference room in Garden Valley and led a general policy discussion concerning Chamber member dues, services and what constitutes a business for membership purposes.
Caughlin also discussed the Articles of Incorporation for the Garden Valley Job Creation/Retention Council and the application for membership to Sage Community Resources for the GV Chamber. Each had been signed by the Chamber co-presidents and secretary and submitted with the required fee. Final submission of both requires the Chamber Board’s vote of approval. The Articles required a $30 check and delivery to the Secretary of State in Boise. The Sage application required a $250 check and delivery to Sage in Garden City. A subsequent vote of the Board members, completed by email, approved the submission of both applications.
The monthly Chamber Member’s meeting and a community economy development planning session was scheduled to follow:
GV Chamber of Commerce Members Meeting
Diane Caughlin discussed member dues options for business members and non-business members. These new policies will be documented and posted on the GV CoC website.
Co-Presidents John Cottingham and Diane Caughlin presented a plaque Certificate of Appreciation to Greg Simione for his many years of service to the GV Chamber. Ubiquitous and hearty applause echoed through the Community Hall.
New Business
Diane Caughlin discussed:
• Lee Sells will revisit Chamber member Health Care Insurance opportunities and report back to the Board and to the Chamber membership.
• Mark Morgan from Biological Solutions, providing probiotic products for septic systems, will tell us about his business during the February Chamber meeting.
• The Chamber Spring Fling is scheduled for April 23rd from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Community Hall and around Crouch. Carol Scharf will head up the craft bazaar at the community center.
• Fourth of July Celebration planning starts now. Volunteers are needed.
• October’s Trunk or Treat is scheduled for the Saturday prior to Halloween. Volunteers are needed. Call John Jauregui at 462-2437.
Rich Wilson, Chairman of the Library Board, provided an update on the new library.
• The contractor will soon begin working through the outstanding items punch list.
• Need volunteers, and treat providers, for the book move scheduled for February 11th and 12th.
• The old library will, of course, close on February 11th and the new library doors will open on February 22nd, with the Grand Opening scheduled for March 5th from 2 to 4 p.m.
GV Community Choir is making a $500 donation to the school choir.
Thelma Davis noted that Starlight Mountain Theater had a very successful year, but that Treasure Valley newscasts often impact attendance, due to inaccurate weather forecasting for Garden Valley.
Marlene Robertson Cloud's current business, Evergreen Insurance, provides health, life, dental, vision and burial insurance services for residents of Garden Valley and the surrounding area. In business for 22 years, she has been serving Garden Valley customers for the last ten years. Marlene has taken action to clean up and upgrade the old community information board located on the front of the Community Hall. Those who would like to use this community resource for business marketing and community interest information are strongly encouraged to use the tacks provided, not staples. Staples destroy the integrity of the newly applied cork board material.
Blake Oseen noted Idaho XSports is sponsoring:
• A Silver Creek Plunge night ride (43 mile loop) each month on or about the Friday closest to the full moon, for $140 (single seat); $180 (dual seat); this includes gear, gas, insurance and dinner at Silver Creek. Group rides of 8 to 16 riders are supported on request, seven days a week.
• A Camp Rainbow Gold fundraiser for kids with cancer in February, at the tubing hill, with BSU players and other local dignitaries. Keep an eye out for schedule details.
• A Chamber fund raiser, so check your emails.
• A Fire Department fund raiser the evening of January 28, at the tubing hill.
Diane Carlson, owner/proprietor of full service Sun Country Salon, 606 South Middlefork Road, provides 7-days-a-week all hair services including $13 barbers and pedicures. She announced Deb Majeran will be available for scheduled appointments Saturday through Wednesday.
Rex LeFevre described the miracles he’s experienced fighting multiple myeloma and establishing the Garden Valley radio station. Station news includes:
• US Congress passage of a small community emergency FM radio station bill, which the President signed. Unfortunately the FCC applications process is not yet open.
• Rex is working to get his ducks in a row to get the station up and operating, but needs people to be active in:
o Programming
o Management
o Engineering
The development of young leadership in these skills and positions is essential to sustain Rex’s accomplishments to date and in the future.
• Station will be located in the lower level of the new medical clinic and at 87.5 MHz (KXGV) on your radio FM dial. The station will use 70 watts power to reach everyone in the valley.
Diane adjourned the Chamber meeting, which was followed by a community economic planning meeting led by John Cottingham, with game planning activities facilitated by John Jauregui.
Chamber Board
Co-President Diane Caughlin opened the meeting at 5 p.m., Thursday, January 13, in the Outfitter’s Trading Post business conference room in Garden Valley and led a general policy discussion concerning Chamber member dues, services and what constitutes a business for membership purposes.
Caughlin also discussed the Articles of Incorporation for the Garden Valley Job Creation/Retention Council and the application for membership to Sage Community Resources for the GV Chamber. Each had been signed by the Chamber co-presidents and secretary and submitted with the required fee. Final submission of both requires the Chamber Board’s vote of approval. The Articles required a $30 check and delivery to the Secretary of State in Boise. The Sage application required a $250 check and delivery to Sage in Garden City. A subsequent vote of the Board members, completed by email, approved the submission of both applications.
The monthly Chamber Member’s meeting and a community economy development planning session was scheduled to follow:
GV Chamber of Commerce Members Meeting
Diane Caughlin discussed member dues options for business members and non-business members. These new policies will be documented and posted on the GV CoC website.
Co-Presidents John Cottingham and Diane Caughlin presented a plaque Certificate of Appreciation to Greg Simione for his many years of service to the GV Chamber. Ubiquitous and hearty applause echoed through the Community Hall.
New Business
Diane Caughlin discussed:
• Lee Sells will revisit Chamber member Health Care Insurance opportunities and report back to the Board and to the Chamber membership.
• Mark Morgan from Biological Solutions, providing probiotic products for septic systems, will tell us about his business during the February Chamber meeting.
• The Chamber Spring Fling is scheduled for April 23rd from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Community Hall and around Crouch. Carol Scharf will head up the craft bazaar at the community center.
• Fourth of July Celebration planning starts now. Volunteers are needed.
• October’s Trunk or Treat is scheduled for the Saturday prior to Halloween. Volunteers are needed. Call John Jauregui at 462-2437.
Rich Wilson, Chairman of the Library Board, provided an update on the new library.
• The contractor will soon begin working through the outstanding items punch list.
• Need volunteers, and treat providers, for the book move scheduled for February 11th and 12th.
• The old library will, of course, close on February 11th and the new library doors will open on February 22nd, with the Grand Opening scheduled for March 5th from 2 to 4 p.m.
GV Community Choir is making a $500 donation to the school choir.
Thelma Davis noted that Starlight Mountain Theater had a very successful year, but that Treasure Valley newscasts often impact attendance, due to inaccurate weather forecasting for Garden Valley.
Marlene Robertson Cloud's current business, Evergreen Insurance, provides health, life, dental, vision and burial insurance services for residents of Garden Valley and the surrounding area. In business for 22 years, she has been serving Garden Valley customers for the last ten years. Marlene has taken action to clean up and upgrade the old community information board located on the front of the Community Hall. Those who would like to use this community resource for business marketing and community interest information are strongly encouraged to use the tacks provided, not staples. Staples destroy the integrity of the newly applied cork board material.
Blake Oseen noted Idaho XSports is sponsoring:
• A Silver Creek Plunge night ride (43 mile loop) each month on or about the Friday closest to the full moon, for $140 (single seat); $180 (dual seat); this includes gear, gas, insurance and dinner at Silver Creek. Group rides of 8 to 16 riders are supported on request, seven days a week.
• A Camp Rainbow Gold fundraiser for kids with cancer in February, at the tubing hill, with BSU players and other local dignitaries. Keep an eye out for schedule details.
• A Chamber fund raiser, so check your emails.
• A Fire Department fund raiser the evening of January 28, at the tubing hill.
Diane Carlson, owner/proprietor of full service Sun Country Salon, 606 South Middlefork Road, provides 7-days-a-week all hair services including $13 barbers and pedicures. She announced Deb Majeran will be available for scheduled appointments Saturday through Wednesday.
Rex LeFevre described the miracles he’s experienced fighting multiple myeloma and establishing the Garden Valley radio station. Station news includes:
• US Congress passage of a small community emergency FM radio station bill, which the President signed. Unfortunately the FCC applications process is not yet open.
• Rex is working to get his ducks in a row to get the station up and operating, but needs people to be active in:
o Programming
o Management
o Engineering
The development of young leadership in these skills and positions is essential to sustain Rex’s accomplishments to date and in the future.
• Station will be located in the lower level of the new medical clinic and at 87.5 MHz (KXGV) on your radio FM dial. The station will use 70 watts power to reach everyone in the valley.
Diane adjourned the Chamber meeting, which was followed by a community economic planning meeting led by John Cottingham, with game planning activities facilitated by John Jauregui.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
WINTER BLUES SPIN-IN
Sponsored by Garden Valley Fiber Freaks
Sunday, Feb 13th 2011 @ Crouch Community Hall 10am – 3pm
$5 donation, $15 for vendors to help defray hall rental cost
Bring your SHOW & TELL ~
A White Elephant (fiber related) Exchange
Bring a finger/snack food to share, no cooking/crock pots allowed.
Bring your own lunch or enjoy The Longhorn Bar & Grill .
Come early and enjoy a delicious breakfast at Wild Bill's.
Sunday, Feb 13th 2011 @ Crouch Community Hall 10am – 3pm
$5 donation, $15 for vendors to help defray hall rental cost
Bring your SHOW & TELL ~
A White Elephant (fiber related) Exchange
Bring a finger/snack food to share, no cooking/crock pots allowed.
Bring your own lunch or enjoy The Longhorn Bar & Grill .
Come early and enjoy a delicious breakfast at Wild Bill's.
Great coffee too !
The Crouch Merc has a deli for yummy To Go items.
Bring your friends !
_______________________________
The Crouch Merc has a deli for yummy To Go items.
Bring your friends !
_______________________________
JASON COLLINGWOOD
THURSDAY - SUNDAY ~ AUGUST 4TH - 7TH 2011
This year I have arranged with the Garden Valley School District to use our new Multi-Purpose Room...it's FAB ! Get your reservations in NOW as Garden Valley is a hub of summer activities and I'd hate for you to miss this fine opportunity for FUN and LEARNING as JASON COLLINGWOOD is a top-notch instructor with a wry sense of humor !
Sweet Heart Special Workshop Fee $300 + $25 materials fee = $325 ~ paid in full by February 14th 2011 ~ a few spaces still available at Sweet Heart Special .
Visit Jason's website for more info on Jason ! www.rugweaver.co.uk
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3-END BLOCK WEAVE
An exploration of three end block weaves, the same structure Jason uses to weave all his rugs.
Starting with simple two colour designs and moving on to designing within the blocks and the introduction of a third colour.
Techniques such as clasped wefts and dovetailing will be looked at to further increase the design scope of this structure.
2 / 1 double faced twill will also be covered in this class.
Special emphasis will be placed on Shaft Switching, everyone being able to adapt their looms in class to try out this exciting technique.
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Techniques such as clasped wefts and dovetailing will be looked at to further increase the design scope of this structure.
2 / 1 double faced twill will also be covered in this class.
Special emphasis will be placed on Shaft Switching, everyone being able to adapt their looms in class to try out this exciting technique.
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SEMINAR
The Design Possibilities of Shaft Switching
The Design Possibilities of Shaft Switching
With the aid of slides/power point presentation this technique will be fully explained. What led to its development, the most basic forms of shaft switching, the various stages along it's 'evolution' up to the commercially available unit of today.
Each of these steps will be carefully explained ( many with slides of the original plans for the first lever system ). Using slides of Jason's work along with that of others, it will be clearly seen just how liberating shaft switching is design-wise for the rug weaver.
A general discussion on what constitutes good design will also be covered.
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Each of these steps will be carefully explained ( many with slides of the original plans for the first lever system ). Using slides of Jason's work along with that of others, it will be clearly seen just how liberating shaft switching is design-wise for the rug weaver.
A general discussion on what constitutes good design will also be covered.
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Questions ??? Further details... suggestions... references... good ideas... jokes... RSVP.
Please make deposits to:
georgianna goetsch PO Box 777 Garden Valley, ID 83622-0777
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Please make deposits to:
georgianna goetsch PO Box 777 Garden Valley, ID 83622-0777
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~ Hope to see you for WINTER BLUES ~
Thank-you
Thank-you
georgianna goetsch
E payettegeorge@yahoo.com
P 208-462-3709
E payettegeorge@yahoo.com
P 208-462-3709
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
MUSINGS: A Winter Wonderland
By Rich SmithI don’t know why I considered my hike into the mountains with my dog Molly this particular morning extraordinary. We walk these mountains each morning, yet today’s experience seemed special and worth mentioning. Perhaps it was the exceptionally clear sky and the bitterly cold temperature, or the two feet of fresh powdery snow that blanketed the mountains and valley. Or possibly it was just my mood this crisp, sparkling morning. No matter, for it was an experience to savor and commit to paper.
After hiking an unplowed logging road, I climbed onto a trail that wound into the hills above the Payette River. The recent snow smothered the terrain in powdery white fluff that covered all but the largest bushes and rocks. A forest of two-inch high rhombic ice crystals marked the side of the trail, each flashing like a thousand twinkle lights in the weak sunlight. Hoary frost clung to conifers and clothed the bare branches of wintering trees in a coat of white. The gentle breeze shook pin-size ice crystals from the trees, which fell in a gentle shower onto the path.
The trail climbed higher and ended on a ridge where the forest opened to reveal a canopy of cobalt blue sky reaching over a narrow valley covered by a checkerboard of farms intermixed with patches of forest. The blanket of deep snow on the ridge served to mute all sound. The civilization below, with its annoying bustle and clamor, seemed distant and powerless to penetrate this remote place. Only the muffled bark of a dog faintly echoed from the valley below.
As the sun struggled to peek over a distant mountain ridge, its weak rays promising to take the edge off the bitter cold, I noticed a set of fresh prints that tracked down the ridge and disappeared into the forest. My first thought was the tracks belonged to a dog, yet the prints, as large as my hand and unaccompanied by any human tracks, suggested otherwise. A bit further down the ridge I came to a pile of steaming scat mixed with feathers and bits of fur and bone. The scat left no doubt that it belonged to a wolf, and the animal must be nearby.
Idaho has hundreds of wolves, and a pack roams these mountains. This year the Federal Government decided to take them off the endangered species list in Idaho, and then a judge placed them back on. Human intervention in the ways of nature often produces unintended results. Protected from hunting, the wolves have grown in sufficient numbers to become a nuisance. They occasionally attack sheep and cattle and have reduced elk herds in the backcountry. It is necessary to control wolf populations with limited hunts, yet it would be a shame to see these animals disappear from the surrounding mountains. On occasion I have seen and heard wolves, yet they keep a respectful distance from us. I don’t fear them, but keep a close watch on Molly.
Retracing my steps back down the trail and onto the logging road, I spied a beautiful Red Fox ahead. He didn’t seem at all frightened and stood there staring at us as if to say, “What are you creatures doing in MY mountains?” Molly cautiously approached him until they stood almost nose to nose. He sniffed, and not pleased with what he smelled, turned and ran off into the forest. Obedient to my command, Molly did not chase after him.
Further down the road a mob of crows had gathered in a lone pine tree and abruptly ended the peace and quiet. Dozens of noisy birds cackled and called, each trying to be heard above the cacophony created by their neighbors. Perhaps they were protesting our intrusion, but Molly ignored them and gave chase to several squirrels that scampered into nearby Ponderosas. Distracted by the crows, I neglected to notice I had walked onto a large slab of ice slick as bear grease. I thrust my arms out to regain my balance and skated down the road, but thanks to the Yaktrax my wife insists I wear, was able to keep my feet under me. Meanwhile, Molly had tired of chasing squirrels and ran toward me at full speed. As she hit the patch of ice, her legs spread out like those of Bambi on the ice pond, and gaining speed she slid by me not stopping until she crashed against a wall of snow piled beside the road. She didn’t seem at all embarrassed by such clumsiness, yet with increased prudence walked back to me as I shuffled off the ice.
By now, my nose and cheeks began to lose all feeling--a sign it was time to get back to the warmth and protection of my car. I crossed over the river bridge and listened to the melodious tune of a Water Oozle. The frozen river showed only a hint of running water, which forced its way through a crack in the ice and then disappeared under the bridge. Large slabs of ice, unable to find room in the river, pointed skyward at odd angles of repose.
Closer to the car, I met a man jogging along the road. I wished him a good morning yet he did not return my greeting. His eyes remained fixed on the road ahead as he concentrated on his labored breathing. He had such a pained look on his face as he passed by that I couldn’t help feeling sorry for him. To me joggers are a mystery. They never seem to enjoy their sport and pain is their main gain. I do not understand why anyone would indulge in such discomfort, but I’m told it has something to do with endorphins. I think this person might have been much happier had he hiked into the mountain with me and savored the beauty of nature. If so, he would have returned home with a smile on his face and warmth in his heart as I did.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Syringa Club Meets Thursday
Neighbors With News
Submitted By Georgianna Goetsch
Greetings Syringa Ladies ~
First of all , I would like to thank Marlo and Gary Glauser for the lovely holiday luncheon they hosted in December. I know I enjoyed the excellent company, great food and fabulous view of the river.
As the new president-elect of Syringa Club, I would like to thank Carol Smith for her many years of dedication to our club. Thank-you Carol ! I am learning the ropes....so please bear with me as I attempt to take over the reins in this new year.
Our first meeting of the year is Thursday - January 20th 2011 - Noon - at the Senior Center. If you would like to join us, please bring a brown bag lunch to enjoy with your Syringa cohorts. I'll provide coffee/tea and a dessert.
We have a number of items on our agenda to discuss for the upcoming year and it is good to have your input early on. Dues are due : )
Hope to see you Thursday. Thank-you ~
georgianna goetsch
E-mail: payettegeorge@yahoo.com
Phone: 208.462.3709
Submitted By Georgianna Goetsch
Greetings Syringa Ladies ~
First of all , I would like to thank Marlo and Gary Glauser for the lovely holiday luncheon they hosted in December. I know I enjoyed the excellent company, great food and fabulous view of the river.
As the new president-elect of Syringa Club, I would like to thank Carol Smith for her many years of dedication to our club. Thank-you Carol ! I am learning the ropes....so please bear with me as I attempt to take over the reins in this new year.
Our first meeting of the year is Thursday - January 20th 2011 - Noon - at the Senior Center. If you would like to join us, please bring a brown bag lunch to enjoy with your Syringa cohorts. I'll provide coffee/tea and a dessert.
We have a number of items on our agenda to discuss for the upcoming year and it is good to have your input early on. Dues are due : )
Hope to see you Thursday. Thank-you ~
georgianna goetsch
E-mail: payettegeorge@yahoo.com
Phone: 208.462.3709
FIREFIGHTER FUNDRAISER AT THE TUBING HILL!
FIREMAN'S FAMILY NIGHT
AT THE
TUBING HILL
~
Sponsored By
Garden Valley Firefighters
January 28 6-10 pm
Food & Bar Available
(Non-Alcoholic)
~
$5.00 per person
All proceeds benefit the
Burnout & Scholarship Funds
~
IDAHO X SPORTS
Located at IDAHO X SPORTS Snow Tubing Hill
Southfork Landing, just off Alder Creek Road
~Thanks IDAHO X SPORTS for Your Support!~
~~Each youth participating must have a signed release form located on the back of the flyers (pick one up at GV Properties in Crouch). You will not be allowed on the hill without it!~~
For More Information, Contact 462-3175 or 462-2043
Thursday, January 13, 2011
WANNA BE A BOARD MEMBER? Applications Being Accepted
ANNOUNCEMENT OF VACANCY
School Board Trustee Positions, Zone III
The Board of the Garden Valley School District announces a Trustee vacancy for Trustee Zone III, effective immediately.
Requirements for the position include being a legal resident of the designated Trustee Zone, energy and enthusiasm for the District and its schools, the ability to work within the duties and responsibilities of school trustees, make difficult decisions in the face of popular sentiment, and the ability to spend the necessary time for training, meeting preparation, and meeting attendance and participation.
Interested parties should submit a letter of interest answering the following questions:
1. Why do you wish to serve on the Garden Valley School District Board of Trustees?
2. What experience, knowledge, skills, or training do you have that would benefit the Board?
3. What do you see as the major issues confronting the school district?
4. What do you see your role on the board as being?
The deadline for letters of interest is 4:00 pm, February 9, 2010, and should be sent to Paula Fox, Clerk of the Board, PO Box 710, Garden Valley, ID 83622, or delivered to the District office at 1053 Banks Lowman Road.
Should the Board wish to conduct interviews applicants will be notified and a date and time agreed upon.
The successful applicant will be sworn in at the next convening meeting of the Board, and will serve the remainder of the term associated with the vacant position – standing for reelection in May of 2011.
For questions about the Garden Valley School District, the application process, or boundaries of the vacant Zone, please contact Paula Fox, at 462-3756 X 1013.
Thank you for your interest in the Garden Valley School District.
Thank you,
Paula
Business and Human Resource Mgr
Clerk, Board of Trustees
Garden Valley School District #71
208-462-3756 ext 1013
School Board Trustee Positions, Zone III
The Board of the Garden Valley School District announces a Trustee vacancy for Trustee Zone III, effective immediately.
Requirements for the position include being a legal resident of the designated Trustee Zone, energy and enthusiasm for the District and its schools, the ability to work within the duties and responsibilities of school trustees, make difficult decisions in the face of popular sentiment, and the ability to spend the necessary time for training, meeting preparation, and meeting attendance and participation.
Interested parties should submit a letter of interest answering the following questions:
1. Why do you wish to serve on the Garden Valley School District Board of Trustees?
2. What experience, knowledge, skills, or training do you have that would benefit the Board?
3. What do you see as the major issues confronting the school district?
4. What do you see your role on the board as being?
The deadline for letters of interest is 4:00 pm, February 9, 2010, and should be sent to Paula Fox, Clerk of the Board, PO Box 710, Garden Valley, ID 83622, or delivered to the District office at 1053 Banks Lowman Road.
Should the Board wish to conduct interviews applicants will be notified and a date and time agreed upon.
The successful applicant will be sworn in at the next convening meeting of the Board, and will serve the remainder of the term associated with the vacant position – standing for reelection in May of 2011.
For questions about the Garden Valley School District, the application process, or boundaries of the vacant Zone, please contact Paula Fox, at 462-3756 X 1013.
Thank you for your interest in the Garden Valley School District.
Thank you,
Paula
Business and Human Resource Mgr
Clerk, Board of Trustees
Garden Valley School District #71
208-462-3756 ext 1013
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
One Hundred Excellent Art Therapy Exercises For Your Mind, Body and Soul!
Submitted by Ken Martin 
http://www.nursingschools.net/
'MacCat Unraveling' by Angel
Pablo Picasso once said, "Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life." It's no surprise, then, that many people around the world use art as a means to deal with stress, trauma and unhappiness – or to just find greater peace and meaning in their lives. If you're curious about what art therapy has to offer, you can try out some of these great solo exercises at home to help nurse your mind, body and soul back to health. If you like the experience, you can also seek out professional art therapy treatment in your area.
Emotions
Deal with emotions like anger and sadness through these helpful exercises.
1. Draw or paint your emotions. In this exercise, you'll focus entirely on painting what you're feeling.
2. Create an emotion wheel. Using color, this activity will have you thinking critically about your emotions.
3. Make a stress painting. Choose colors that represent your stress and jab, scribble and paint your problems away.
4. Put together a journal. Journals don't have to just be based around words. You can make an art journal as well, that lets you visually express your emotions.
5. Make sock puppets. Sock puppets aren't just for kids. Make your own and have them act out scenes that make you upset.
6. Use line art. Line is one of the simplest and most basic aspects of art, but it can also contain a lot of emotion. Use simple line art to demonstrate visually how you're feeling.
7. Design a postcard you will never send. Are you still angry or upset with someone in your life? Create a postcard that expresses this, though you don't have to ever send it.
8. Create a sculpture of your anger. For this activity, you'll make a physical manifestation of the anger in your life.
9. Paint a mountain and a valley. The mountain can represent a time where you were happy, the valley, when you were sad. Add elements that reflect specific events as well.
10. Attach a drawing or message to a balloon. Send away negative emotions or spread positive ones by attaching a note or drawing to a balloon and setting it free.
11. Paint inside a heart. Using a heart as a pattern, fill in different parts of the heart with the emotions you're feeling right now.
Relaxation
Art therapy can be a great way to relax. Consider these exercises if you're looking to feel a little more laid back.
12. Paint to music. Letting your creativity flow in response to music is a great way to let out feelings and just relax.
13. Make a scribble drawing. With this activity, you'll turn a simple scribble into something beautiful, using line, color and your creativity.
14. Finger paint. Finger painting isn't just fun for kids– adults can enjoy it as well. Get your hands messy and really have fun spreading paint around.
15. Make a mandala. Whether you use the traditional sand or draw one on your own, this meditative symbol can easily help you to loosen up.
16. Draw in the dark. Not being able to judge what you're drawing or having to worry about whether or not it's "right" can be very liberating.
17. Draw something HUGE. Then something very small. Getting your body involved and moving around can help release stress as you're drawing.
18. Use color blocks. Colors often come with a lot of emotions attached. Choose several paint chips to work with and collage, paint and glue until you've created a colorful masterpiece.
19. Let yourself be free. Don't allow yourself to judge your work. After all, there's no way to fail and no right way to make art. Just draw, paint or sculpt until your heart's content.
20. Only use colors that calm you. Create a drawing or a painting using only colors that you find calming.
21. Draw in sand. Like a Zen garden, this activity will have you drawing shapes and scenes in the sand, which can be immensely relaxing and a great way to clear your mind.
22. Make a zentangle. These fun little drawings are a great tool for letting go and helping reduce stress.
23. Color in a design. Sometimes, the simple act of coloring can be a great way to relax. Find a coloring book or create a mandala.
24. Draw outside. Working en plein air can be a fun way to relax and get in touch with nature while you're working on art.
Happiness
Art can not only help you deal with the bad stuff, but also help you appreciate and focus on the good. Check out these activities all about reflecting on your personal happiness.
25. Draw your vision of a perfect day. Think about what constitutes a perfect day to you and draw or paint it. What about this drawing can you make happen today?
26.Take photographs of things you think are beautiful. No one else has to like them but you. Print and frame them to have constant reminders of the beautiful things in life.
27. Make a drawing related to a quote you like. Take the words of wisdom from someone else and turn them into something visually inspiring.
28.Create a drawing that represents freedom. This activity has you think about the concept of freedom and what it means to you, creating a work of art that showcases just what it means to you as an individual.
29. Document a spiritual experience. Have you ever had a spiritual experience in your life? Draw or paint what it felt like.
30. Make a stuffed animal. Soft, cuddly objects can be very comforting. Use this project to create an animal that means something to you.
31. Work on a softness project. Using only soft or comforting objects, create a work of art.
32. Build a "home." What does home mean to you? This activity will have you create a safe, warm place– it doesn't have to be practical– that feels like home to you.
33. Document an experience where you did something you didn't think you could do. We all have to do things that we're scared or unsure of sometimes. Use this activity as a chance to commemorate one instance in your life.
34. Think up a wild invention. This invention should do something that can help make you happier– no matter what that is.
35. Make a prayer flag. Send your prayers for yourself or those around you out into the universe with this project.
Portraits
Often, a great way to get to know yourself and your relationships with others is through portraits.
36. Create a future self-portrait. This drawing or painting should reflect where you see yourself in the future.
37. Draw a bag self-portrait. On the outside of a paper bag, you'll create a self-portrait. On the inside, you'll fill it with things that represent who you are.
38. Choose the people who matter most to you in life and create unique art for each. This is a great way to acknowledge what really matters to you and express your gratitude.
39. Draw a portrait of someone who changed your life. If someone has ever helped change your path, for better or worse, draw this person.
40. Create an image that represents how you think others see you. Then, have someone in the class draw a portrait of you. Compare the results.
41. Draw yourself as a warrior. Start thinking about yourself as a strong, capable person by drawing yourself as a warrior in this activity.
42. Create a transformational portrait series. This project will help you to see how you've changed over time and represent those changes visually.
43. Imitate Giuseppe Arcimboldo. Using objects that have meaning to you, create a portrait of yourself.
44. Create a body image sketch. If you have issues with your self-esteem and body image, this can be an interesting way to see how your perceptions match up with reality.
45. Draw a mirror. This activity is based around a Piet Mondrian quote: "The purer the artist's mirror is, the more true reality reflects in it." You'll need to figure out what is still cloudy in your own reflection of yourself, drawing a mirror and depicting those elements on paper.
46. Draw yourself as a superhero. If you could have a superpower what would it be? This project asks you to depict your own image as a superhero with these powers.
Trauma and Unhappiness
These activities will ask you to face some unpleasant aspects of life, but with the goal of overcoming them.
47. Draw a place where you feel safe. The world can be a scary place but in this project you'll create a place, draw, painted or sculpted, that makes you feel safe.
48. Create a mini-diorama. This diorama can showcase an important moment in your life or some trauma that you've experienced.
49. Create a collage of your worries. What worries you in your life? Cut out pictures from magazines to represent these worries.
50. Draw something that scares you. Everyone is frightened of something and in this project you'll get a chance to bring that fear to light and hopefully work towards facing it.
51. Turn your illness into art. Facing a potentially terminal illness? Turn your illness into something beautiful by creating art about it.
52. Paint a loss in your life. If you've lost someone you love or something, paint it. This will help you to remember but also to recover.
53. Make art that is ephemeral. Sometimes we have a hard time letting go, but this project will teach you that it's ok if something doesn't last. Use materials like sand, chalk, paper or water to create art that you will destroy when it's done.
Collaging
If you prefer to cut and paste rather than draw or paint, these projects are for you.
54. Create a motivational collage. You can hang this collage somewhere you'll see it everyday. Filled with images you find motivating, it'll help you keep pushing on.
55. Create a face collage on a mask. We all wear masks of some sort. This project lets you showcase what's in your mask and the face you put on for the world.
56. Create a clutter collage. Are there things cluttering up your life? In this project, use words and pictures to show the clutter in your way.
57. Create a calming collage. Choose images that you find soothing, calming or even meditative and combine them to create an attractive collage that can help you to relax.
58. Collage a painting. To complete this exercise, you'll first need to create a simple, abstract painting on paper. Then, tear this painting up and create another. Think about how you felt when you had to tear up the first painting and which you like more.
Self
Examine aspects of who you are and how you see the world through these amazing art projects.
59. Draw images of your good traits. Creating drawings of your good traits will help you to become more positive and build a better self-image.
60. Draw yourself as an animal. Is there an animal that you have a special interest in or feel like is a kindred spirit? Draw yourself as that animal.
61. Create a timeline and draw the most significant moments in your life. This timeline will be the story of your life, with the most important moments highlighted visually.
62. Put together a jungle animal collage. Choose jungle animals that you find the most interesting, draw them, and then reflect on why you've chosen these specific animals.
63. Sculpt your ideal self. If you could make yourself into the perfect person, what would you look like?
64. Paint the different sides of yourself. In this project, you'll paint the different aspects of your personality, giving each a visual representation. You might only have one or two, or maybe even twelve.
65. Make art around your fingerprints. Your fingerprints are as unique as you are. Use ink and paint to make art that uses your fingerprints.
66. Draw yourself as a tree. Your roots will be loaded with descriptions of things that give you strength and your good qualities, while your leaves can be the things that you're trying to change.
67. Design a fragments box. In this project, you'll put fragments of yourself into a box, helping construct a whole and happier you.
68. Paint an important childhood memory. What was a pivotal memory in your childhood? This activity asks you to document it and try to understand why it was so important to you.
69. Write and illustrate a fairy tale about yourself. If you could put yourself into a happily ever after situation, what role would you play and how would the story go? Create a book that tells the tale.
70. Design a visual autobiography. This creative journaling project asks you to look back at your life and make a visual representation of it.
71. Create your own coat of arms. Choose symbols that represent your strengths to build your own special coat of arms.
72. Draw a comic strip about a funny moment in your life. Enjoy a moment of levity with this exercise that will focus in on a comical even that happened to you.
73. Build your own website. Websites are very versatile ways to express yourself. Build your own to express what's most important about you.
74. Create a box of values. First, collage or paint a box the represents you. Then, place items inside the box that represent the things you value the most.
Gratitude
Here you'll find a collection of projects that will help you be happy about what you have and express your gratitude for it.
75. Document your gratitude visually. What things are you grateful for in your life? Paint or collage a work that represents these things.
76. Create a family tree of strength. This exercise honors those around you who support you. Paint those close to you who offer you the strength you need.
77. Make something for someone else. Making something for someone else can be a great way to feel good and help someone else do so as well.
78. Make anchor art. Who are the anchors in your life? In this project, you'll make an anchor and decorate it with the people and things that provide you stability and strength.
79. Draw all the positive things in your life. Everyone has at least one good thing in life, so sit down and figure out what makes you happy– then draw it.
80. Sculpt your hand in plaster. Once it's dry, write all the good things you can do with it right onto the hand.
81. Paint a rock. This project is meant to offer you strength. You can approach it in two ways. One option is to paint the rock with things that empower you. The other is to paint it with struggles you overcome.
82. Write on leaves to create a gratitude tree. What are you grateful for? This project asks you to write those things on leaves to construct a tree or banner of gratitude.
83. Map out the connections in your life. Draw yourself at the center of this project, then map out how you're connected to everyone else in your life. It will help make you feel much less alone.
84. Create a snowflake out of paper. Write ideas about how you are unique on the snowflake.
85. Build a personal altar. This is a highly personal project that will help connect you with your spiritual side and honor your resilience.
Inside the Mind
Take a look inside your mind to see what's going on with these projects.
86. Create a blot art. Like a classic Rorschach test, fold paper in half with paint or ink in the middle and describe what you see.
87. Map your brain. Make a visual representation of your thoughts to figure out how your mind works.
88. Make a dreamcatcher. Having bad dreams? Create this age-old tool for catching your dreams with a few simple tools.
89. Draw your dreams. You can learn a lot from what goes on in your dreams, so keep a dream journal and use it for inspiration to draw or paint.
Miscellaneous
If you're still looking for something to empower, help or soothe you, these projects may fit the bill.
90. Use natural materials. Leaves, sticks, dirt, clay and other natural materials can help you get in touch with the natural world and the more primal side of yourself.
91. Build an archetype. Check out this series of projects to build a set of archetypes, or ideal examples, that can help you explore how you see the world.
92. Use your body as a canvas. You don't need paper when you have you body. Paint on your hands and feet or anywhere else to feel more in touch with yourself.
93. Sculpt spirit figures. Connect with those that have passed on or your own spiritual essence using these sculpted figures.
94. Make art out of recycled items. You can reuse old items that have meaning to you or just re-purpose something you have laying around. Either way, you'll get insights into how you can reshape and reevaluate your own life.
95. Collage or draw on top of old photographs. If you're uncomfortable using old photos you can make copies, but with this project you'll draw out one characteristic you see in the person in the photos.
96. Create your own interpretation of a famous work of art. How would you have painted the Mona Lisa? Using a famous work as your inspiration, create your own work. It could help reveal more about your lens on the world.
97. Work collaboratively. Art can be better when two work at it together, so find a partner and collaborate on just about anything.
98. Use a found or made object as a paintbrush. Whether it's something sharp or something soft, make your own artistic tool and use it to express what you're feeling.
99. Make crayon stained glass. Reflect upon your spiritual side with this project that lets you create your own stained glass window.
100. Paint a window. Windows let you see in and see out. Paint yours with things you want to hide or show to the world.
SCHOOL BOARD: Levy Tops Priorities For School District
School Board Meeting January 10, 2011
BUSINESS
Superintendent Tomlin began the discussion on the Supplemental Levy by explaining that while two years ago many school districts declared financial emergencies, Garden Valley School had their reserve funds, which disallowed the school from meeting that criteria. The old levy of $100K (since timed out) was used as incentive to pass the school bond.
Tomlin said the District worked very hard to not run a levy last year, by drawing on Federal Forest Funds, drawing down the reserve and implementing internal cuts. These involved changing to the 4-Day school week, imposing athletic and preschool fees and reducing benefits. The state of the budget is such that the school can no longer maintain their current programs without additional funds. The board was presented with two scenarios, one for a $300K levy and one for $200K.
With $50K in budget reductions, you can expect changes in perhaps ½ day kindergarten classes, a 1% or 2% cut in salaries, while still keeping music, art, phys ed and foreign languages. A $150K reduction would be more dire: It will not happen without staff reductions. Another possibility for saving money is to cut school days, as Garden Valley holds school more than the required days, with smaller classes.
Principal Bob Vian said, “Without a levy, we may as well close up the place.” Meanwhile, patrons urged the board to go easy on the taxpayers: “Be cautious, be smart, be transparent. Don’t shove it down our throats. It won’t work.”
Board Trustee Jeff Bass advised that the community must “expedite, put our differences behind us, this is for the young people”. A committee of teachers, board members and residents was formed to work out a strategy this week, culminating with a special meeting for the community on Monday, January 17, 6:00 p.m., at the school.
The board would like to receive applications from patrons interested in representing Zone III until the May elections. Please contact a board member or the school to get more information. The decision will be made at the next regular meeting, on February 7.
Dr. Tomlin announced that the District has switched propane service to AmeriGas, a savings from $2.40 to $1.65 per gallon. The full and part-time employee discount will be 10¢ per gallon. For fundraising, students and staff can turn in AmeriGas receipts from the community in October and get 2¢ per gallon up to $2,000.
The School Kids
Wrestling is in full swing. Lady Wolverine basketball team is doing well. Middle School girls start in a week. Get in touch with Athletic Director Bob Powell for info or get schedules at http://www.gvsd.net/.
Students have had a great first semester. Mr. Vian says some are struggling, so a response intervention team will meet with teachers and look at the kids’ particular needs to help them be successful. This is in response to the increasing number of students in Special Education.
The Booster Club wants to help improve the school’s athletic image, with equipment, uniforms and track and field lighting. They will meet with the PTO to avoid competition.
4-Day Week is moving along well. The school will be using the working Fridays for staff development—grading and meeting with students. This will help the teachers, who have a heavier workload now, with six classes and ten minutes between each to get ready.
Student Cody Zeff has been impressing everyone with his readings of the morning announcements and motivational comments.
Marla Egerton will be heading the Student Yearbook.
The GV School policy manual contains graduation requirements of 50 credits, but Mr. Vian, the “possibility principal”, requested that the board consider reducing it to the minimal State requirement of 46. This week, three new students have entered the school and he feels it puts some kids under a lot of pressure in these circumstances. He also would like the generic Health class requirement to be changed from 11th grade, to 9th-11th, to open windows for scheduling.
The Superintendent recommended the board attend the ISBA Day on the Hill. Cost is $77 per room and $95 for early bird registration. Trustee Dawn Smith questioned the cost and said, “We have to take some of these cut-backs as well.” Tomlin said the time spent with the Education Committee and legislators is very beneficial, not only for the board, but for the school as well: “The action we take on the school boards does not go unnoticed by the Legislature. They like to hear from you—you are closest to the people. We need to make sure this very rural voice is not drowned out by the larger districts.”
Community Forum:
Thelma Davis spoke out in favor of the school district and Superintendent Tomlin. “We’re all going to have to pull together. If we’re going to get a levy passed, we’re going to have to stop. The hurt is irreparable. Put up substantiated evidence, or shut up.”
Pat Marion was concerned about the discontinuation of the Portfolio Program and Senior Projects. “Is it funding or...?” Mr. Vian explained the staff decided the portfolio was time-consuming for the kids, it gets thumbed through and that’s it! Students will do mini-profiles and parents will be involved. The senior projects are required by the State.
Math teacher, John Haworth, emphasized that if the levy is passed, there will have to be staff cuts across the board, like combining the superintendent and principal positions. He then made a few tentative swipes at Dr. Tomlin, but was warned off by Trustee Alan Ward.
Mary Kay Jones suggested that after Dr. Tomlin checks out the policy updates, maybe he can put them online and the community could give input—thus saving the board some time.
Robert Earl made a plea for the trustees to make a quick acknowledgement that they have received a letter from a constituent. Letter-writing patrons applauded.
Christina Morgan announced she would not vote for the levy, because “our letter of no confidence was not addressed.”
Robert Earl scoffed at the “300 signatures, taken from people from all over the state, in front of local businesses, with a couple of pages of kids who could not spell their last name.” This caused a bit of a disruption in the room, with spits from both sides. Board Chair Terry Elmore objected and said it had in deed been addressed and was done with, then proceeded to Old Business.
Trustee Dawn Smith objected: “This is a difficult subject. Two people had their hands up and if we want these people to trust us and pass a levy, we should be transparent. We should let these people have their say and not end it when you get uncomfortable...this was just plain rude.”
Elmore said she wasn’t aware there were more hands and apologized.
June Palmer remarked, “If we’re trying to pass a levy, let’s go all across—you’ve got to listen to us.”
Christina Morgan said that she was not privy that action had been taken on the letter—“I struggle with distrust.” Attorney for the District, Amy White, said the matter is now closed.
Stacie Smith wanted to know if the letter of no confidence is public. The answer became garbled but it appears that it is not public.
NEW BIZ
Motion was approved to recognize the Garden Valley Education Association (GVEA) as the chosen rep for the teachers and to negotiate a Master Contract between them and the GVSD.
WRAP-UP
When the board reconvened after executive session, it was announced that they had tabled consideration of the Superintendent’s contract solely for budgetary reasons.
DISTRICT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Garden Valley School District #71
2010
In 2010: Our schools underwent their 6-year Accreditation Review. Many employees worked long and hard on this, and GVSD schools were completely reaccredited. The external evaluation team applauded the administration in their written findings for protecting the educational processes from the political turmoil in the community.
In 2010: We built the Biomass Boiler. This was a huge project, a $2.75 million federal grant. From the grant (ARRA) application to the commissioning ceremony, contracting for fuel, and working with the contract team through start-up and learning daily operations, your District worked to make this accomplishment a reality. The district also underwent an onsite federal audit of its handling of the ARRA funds and received high marks for exemplary financial accountability and stewardship.
In 2010: Similarly GVSD stood for its annual audit and again was given high marks, with special recognition to the business office operation and Manager.
In 2010: Another major district project was the bidding and contracting for bus service. This is done in five year cycles, and can be extended for five years. Hence, it had been 10 years since bus service contracting had been considered by the district. Much of the summer months were taken up overseeing the biomass construction, hiring a principal, and three teachers, and managing the myriad processes involved with bus bidding and contracting. All were done successfully.
In 2010: A plan was developed to replace the district’s nearly defunct residential carpentry program and replace it with Business Technology. This plan cost the District nothing, and resulted in a certificated business teacher, who was also assigned to IDLA classes. An outstanding teacher was hired to direct the new Business Technology Program, and already her efforts along with District support has resulted in approval of $6,800 of new money from the State Division of Professional Technical Education.
In 2010: The district researched, debated and adopted the 4-day school week. This was the year also the district administration moved quickly to accommodate and support NIMO and firefighting crews by preparing and opening the old campus and securing a contract that benefited the district and supported the fire fighters and their efforts.
In 2010: GVSD won multiple awards, including national recognition in U.S. News and World Report as one of America’s best schools; recognition by IHSSA as a select Idaho School of Excellence, and our most prestigious recognition as a School Match Award winner for “What Parents Want,” placing GVSD in the top 16% nationally of all schools, with a special recognition from the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
In 2010: The District hired an outstanding experienced and certificated Principal, Bob Vian, along with teachers Ronice Gilbertson, Susie Briggs, and Keelee Harrold.
In 2010: The GVSD High School graduation rate was 100%, with over $20,000 in scholarships awarded to our seniors.
In 2010: Your school district dodged a “snowball,” having negotiated its way out of the QZAB Bond plan in 2009, to fund the biomass boiler. Under that plan our first bond payment of $190,000 would have been due this year. The $2.75 million ARRA grant that was secured by District and U.S. Forest Service initiatives built the boiler with no payback from the district. Whew!
All of the above gives us pride to be Wolverines, and part of the Garden Valley School District. Many employees, parents, volunteers and others contributed to these successes and their efforts are recognized and appreciated. While undeniably there have been political distractions, your school district performed exceptionally well in 2010.
It is important to note that just two years ago the GVSD budget was approximately $2.5 million. Cutbacks at the state and federal levels have decreased our revenues to $2.0 million. We have frozen salaries, reduced expenditures in most programs and have spent much of our precious reserve protecting all instructional programs and activities. We can no longer maintain our current programs without additional funds, and thus will this year ask you as a community to pass a Supplemental Levy to further support your schools and the district. Thank you for your continued support.
GARDEN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
State of the Budget ~ Necessitating a Levy for 2011-2012
Submitted to the Board
By Dr. Michael Tomlin, Superintendent, GVSD
It is important to note that just two years ago the GVSD budget was approximately $2.5 million. Cutbacks at the state and federal levels have decreased our revenues to $2.0 million. We have frozen salaries, reduced expenditures in most programs and have spent much of our precious reserve protecting all instructional programs and activities. We can no longer maintain our current programs without additional funds.
1. From the June 14, 2010 Budget Hearing, resulting in the budget set for 2010-2011, our cumulative deficit:
$44,000: 09-10 state salary cuts/unfunded teacher raises.
$68,000: 10-11 state salary cuts. All salaries frozen, benefits and other
expenses cut.
$58,000: 09-11 reduced busing reimbursements.4-Day school week saves
$11,000, but the cost of fuel rises.
$187,500: 08-11 General State reductions.
$100,000: Old Levy timed out.
$457,500 = reduction to cover. We carry this each year until revenues
rise to meet it.
2. Strategies and assumptions adopted for 2010-11: Maintaining all programs and teachers.
$100,000: Federal Forest Funds. Assume use to offset general fund expenses..
$ 90,000: Internal cuts. 4 day, athletic fees, preschool fees, reduced benefits, etc.
$300,000: Draw down reserve.
$490,000
3. 2011-12 assumptions still needing $400K-450K to remain level
Scenario A Scenario B
$300,000 + Levy $200,000 + Levy
$100,000 + Federal Forest $100,000 + Federal Forest
$ 50,000 + Budget Reductions $150,000 + Budget Reductions
$450,000 Total $450,000 Total
4. Increased cost estimates (Assumes Homeowners Exemption)
$175,000 home/prop value = $9.60/month @ $300K; $7.67/month @ $200K.
$250,000 home/prop value = $16.17/month@ $300K; $13.00/month@ $200K.
For information about the District or meetings of the Board, please contact Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Mike Tomlin, at 208-462-3756 X1012, or mtomlin@gvsd.net; or the Clerk of the Board, Paula Fox, at 208-462-3756 X1013, or pfox@gvsd.net. Board contact information can be found at gvsd.net.
Zone I Terry Elmore ~ Chair
Zone II Dawn Smith ~ Assistant Treasurer
Zone III vacant
Zone IV Jeff Bass ~ member
Zone V Alan Ward, Vice Chair & Treasurer
BUSINESS
Superintendent Tomlin began the discussion on the Supplemental Levy by explaining that while two years ago many school districts declared financial emergencies, Garden Valley School had their reserve funds, which disallowed the school from meeting that criteria. The old levy of $100K (since timed out) was used as incentive to pass the school bond.
Tomlin said the District worked very hard to not run a levy last year, by drawing on Federal Forest Funds, drawing down the reserve and implementing internal cuts. These involved changing to the 4-Day school week, imposing athletic and preschool fees and reducing benefits. The state of the budget is such that the school can no longer maintain their current programs without additional funds. The board was presented with two scenarios, one for a $300K levy and one for $200K.
With $50K in budget reductions, you can expect changes in perhaps ½ day kindergarten classes, a 1% or 2% cut in salaries, while still keeping music, art, phys ed and foreign languages. A $150K reduction would be more dire: It will not happen without staff reductions. Another possibility for saving money is to cut school days, as Garden Valley holds school more than the required days, with smaller classes.
Principal Bob Vian said, “Without a levy, we may as well close up the place.” Meanwhile, patrons urged the board to go easy on the taxpayers: “Be cautious, be smart, be transparent. Don’t shove it down our throats. It won’t work.”
Board Trustee Jeff Bass advised that the community must “expedite, put our differences behind us, this is for the young people”. A committee of teachers, board members and residents was formed to work out a strategy this week, culminating with a special meeting for the community on Monday, January 17, 6:00 p.m., at the school.
The board would like to receive applications from patrons interested in representing Zone III until the May elections. Please contact a board member or the school to get more information. The decision will be made at the next regular meeting, on February 7.
Dr. Tomlin announced that the District has switched propane service to AmeriGas, a savings from $2.40 to $1.65 per gallon. The full and part-time employee discount will be 10¢ per gallon. For fundraising, students and staff can turn in AmeriGas receipts from the community in October and get 2¢ per gallon up to $2,000.
The School Kids
Wrestling is in full swing. Lady Wolverine basketball team is doing well. Middle School girls start in a week. Get in touch with Athletic Director Bob Powell for info or get schedules at http://www.gvsd.net/.
Students have had a great first semester. Mr. Vian says some are struggling, so a response intervention team will meet with teachers and look at the kids’ particular needs to help them be successful. This is in response to the increasing number of students in Special Education.
The Booster Club wants to help improve the school’s athletic image, with equipment, uniforms and track and field lighting. They will meet with the PTO to avoid competition.
4-Day Week is moving along well. The school will be using the working Fridays for staff development—grading and meeting with students. This will help the teachers, who have a heavier workload now, with six classes and ten minutes between each to get ready.
Student Cody Zeff has been impressing everyone with his readings of the morning announcements and motivational comments.
Marla Egerton will be heading the Student Yearbook.
The GV School policy manual contains graduation requirements of 50 credits, but Mr. Vian, the “possibility principal”, requested that the board consider reducing it to the minimal State requirement of 46. This week, three new students have entered the school and he feels it puts some kids under a lot of pressure in these circumstances. He also would like the generic Health class requirement to be changed from 11th grade, to 9th-11th, to open windows for scheduling.
The Superintendent recommended the board attend the ISBA Day on the Hill. Cost is $77 per room and $95 for early bird registration. Trustee Dawn Smith questioned the cost and said, “We have to take some of these cut-backs as well.” Tomlin said the time spent with the Education Committee and legislators is very beneficial, not only for the board, but for the school as well: “The action we take on the school boards does not go unnoticed by the Legislature. They like to hear from you—you are closest to the people. We need to make sure this very rural voice is not drowned out by the larger districts.”
Community Forum:
Thelma Davis spoke out in favor of the school district and Superintendent Tomlin. “We’re all going to have to pull together. If we’re going to get a levy passed, we’re going to have to stop. The hurt is irreparable. Put up substantiated evidence, or shut up.”
Pat Marion was concerned about the discontinuation of the Portfolio Program and Senior Projects. “Is it funding or...?” Mr. Vian explained the staff decided the portfolio was time-consuming for the kids, it gets thumbed through and that’s it! Students will do mini-profiles and parents will be involved. The senior projects are required by the State.
Math teacher, John Haworth, emphasized that if the levy is passed, there will have to be staff cuts across the board, like combining the superintendent and principal positions. He then made a few tentative swipes at Dr. Tomlin, but was warned off by Trustee Alan Ward.
Mary Kay Jones suggested that after Dr. Tomlin checks out the policy updates, maybe he can put them online and the community could give input—thus saving the board some time.
Robert Earl made a plea for the trustees to make a quick acknowledgement that they have received a letter from a constituent. Letter-writing patrons applauded.
Christina Morgan announced she would not vote for the levy, because “our letter of no confidence was not addressed.”
Robert Earl scoffed at the “300 signatures, taken from people from all over the state, in front of local businesses, with a couple of pages of kids who could not spell their last name.” This caused a bit of a disruption in the room, with spits from both sides. Board Chair Terry Elmore objected and said it had in deed been addressed and was done with, then proceeded to Old Business.
Trustee Dawn Smith objected: “This is a difficult subject. Two people had their hands up and if we want these people to trust us and pass a levy, we should be transparent. We should let these people have their say and not end it when you get uncomfortable...this was just plain rude.”
Elmore said she wasn’t aware there were more hands and apologized.
June Palmer remarked, “If we’re trying to pass a levy, let’s go all across—you’ve got to listen to us.”
Christina Morgan said that she was not privy that action had been taken on the letter—“I struggle with distrust.” Attorney for the District, Amy White, said the matter is now closed.
Stacie Smith wanted to know if the letter of no confidence is public. The answer became garbled but it appears that it is not public.
NEW BIZ
Motion was approved to recognize the Garden Valley Education Association (GVEA) as the chosen rep for the teachers and to negotiate a Master Contract between them and the GVSD.
WRAP-UP
When the board reconvened after executive session, it was announced that they had tabled consideration of the Superintendent’s contract solely for budgetary reasons.
DISTRICT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Garden Valley School District #71
2010
In 2010: Our schools underwent their 6-year Accreditation Review. Many employees worked long and hard on this, and GVSD schools were completely reaccredited. The external evaluation team applauded the administration in their written findings for protecting the educational processes from the political turmoil in the community.
In 2010: We built the Biomass Boiler. This was a huge project, a $2.75 million federal grant. From the grant (ARRA) application to the commissioning ceremony, contracting for fuel, and working with the contract team through start-up and learning daily operations, your District worked to make this accomplishment a reality. The district also underwent an onsite federal audit of its handling of the ARRA funds and received high marks for exemplary financial accountability and stewardship.
In 2010: Similarly GVSD stood for its annual audit and again was given high marks, with special recognition to the business office operation and Manager.
In 2010: Another major district project was the bidding and contracting for bus service. This is done in five year cycles, and can be extended for five years. Hence, it had been 10 years since bus service contracting had been considered by the district. Much of the summer months were taken up overseeing the biomass construction, hiring a principal, and three teachers, and managing the myriad processes involved with bus bidding and contracting. All were done successfully.
In 2010: A plan was developed to replace the district’s nearly defunct residential carpentry program and replace it with Business Technology. This plan cost the District nothing, and resulted in a certificated business teacher, who was also assigned to IDLA classes. An outstanding teacher was hired to direct the new Business Technology Program, and already her efforts along with District support has resulted in approval of $6,800 of new money from the State Division of Professional Technical Education.
In 2010: The district researched, debated and adopted the 4-day school week. This was the year also the district administration moved quickly to accommodate and support NIMO and firefighting crews by preparing and opening the old campus and securing a contract that benefited the district and supported the fire fighters and their efforts.
In 2010: GVSD won multiple awards, including national recognition in U.S. News and World Report as one of America’s best schools; recognition by IHSSA as a select Idaho School of Excellence, and our most prestigious recognition as a School Match Award winner for “What Parents Want,” placing GVSD in the top 16% nationally of all schools, with a special recognition from the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
In 2010: The District hired an outstanding experienced and certificated Principal, Bob Vian, along with teachers Ronice Gilbertson, Susie Briggs, and Keelee Harrold.
In 2010: The GVSD High School graduation rate was 100%, with over $20,000 in scholarships awarded to our seniors.
In 2010: Your school district dodged a “snowball,” having negotiated its way out of the QZAB Bond plan in 2009, to fund the biomass boiler. Under that plan our first bond payment of $190,000 would have been due this year. The $2.75 million ARRA grant that was secured by District and U.S. Forest Service initiatives built the boiler with no payback from the district. Whew!
All of the above gives us pride to be Wolverines, and part of the Garden Valley School District. Many employees, parents, volunteers and others contributed to these successes and their efforts are recognized and appreciated. While undeniably there have been political distractions, your school district performed exceptionally well in 2010.
It is important to note that just two years ago the GVSD budget was approximately $2.5 million. Cutbacks at the state and federal levels have decreased our revenues to $2.0 million. We have frozen salaries, reduced expenditures in most programs and have spent much of our precious reserve protecting all instructional programs and activities. We can no longer maintain our current programs without additional funds, and thus will this year ask you as a community to pass a Supplemental Levy to further support your schools and the district. Thank you for your continued support.
GARDEN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
State of the Budget ~ Necessitating a Levy for 2011-2012
Submitted to the Board
By Dr. Michael Tomlin, Superintendent, GVSD
It is important to note that just two years ago the GVSD budget was approximately $2.5 million. Cutbacks at the state and federal levels have decreased our revenues to $2.0 million. We have frozen salaries, reduced expenditures in most programs and have spent much of our precious reserve protecting all instructional programs and activities. We can no longer maintain our current programs without additional funds.
1. From the June 14, 2010 Budget Hearing, resulting in the budget set for 2010-2011, our cumulative deficit:
$44,000: 09-10 state salary cuts/unfunded teacher raises.
$68,000: 10-11 state salary cuts. All salaries frozen, benefits and other
expenses cut.
$58,000: 09-11 reduced busing reimbursements.4-Day school week saves
$11,000, but the cost of fuel rises.
$187,500: 08-11 General State reductions.
$100,000: Old Levy timed out.
$457,500 = reduction to cover. We carry this each year until revenues
rise to meet it.
2. Strategies and assumptions adopted for 2010-11: Maintaining all programs and teachers.
$100,000: Federal Forest Funds. Assume use to offset general fund expenses..
$ 90,000: Internal cuts. 4 day, athletic fees, preschool fees, reduced benefits, etc.
$300,000: Draw down reserve.
$490,000
3. 2011-12 assumptions still needing $400K-450K to remain level
Scenario A Scenario B
$300,000 + Levy $200,000 + Levy
$100,000 + Federal Forest $100,000 + Federal Forest
$ 50,000 + Budget Reductions $150,000 + Budget Reductions
$450,000 Total $450,000 Total
4. Increased cost estimates (Assumes Homeowners Exemption)
$175,000 home/prop value = $9.60/month @ $300K; $7.67/month @ $200K.
$250,000 home/prop value = $16.17/month@ $300K; $13.00/month@ $200K.
For information about the District or meetings of the Board, please contact Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Mike Tomlin, at 208-462-3756 X1012, or mtomlin@gvsd.net; or the Clerk of the Board, Paula Fox, at 208-462-3756 X1013, or pfox@gvsd.net. Board contact information can be found at gvsd.net.
Zone I Terry Elmore ~ Chair
Zone II Dawn Smith ~ Assistant Treasurer
Zone III vacant
Zone IV Jeff Bass ~ member
Zone V Alan Ward, Vice Chair & Treasurer
Sunday, January 9, 2011
SENIOR CENTER GOINGS ON...
Tuesday, January 11:
3:00 p.m. Exercise Class ~FREE
Fit & Fall-Proof Easy does it for you!
Relax, stretch, improve balance and feel good.
3:30 p.m. Board convenes to figure out good stuff for you!
5:00 p.m. DINNER IS SERVED
BBQ Pork Ribs, Potatoes, Green Beans, Soup, Salad Bar,
French Bread and Peach Cobbler.
Affordable family prices: $5, suggested donation for adults 60+;
$4, kids under 12; $6, adults under 60.
Wednesday, January 12
9:30 a.m. Quilt Guild Meets Here
5:30 p.m. Weight Loss Challenge!
2nd week, time to join and lose those pounds and inches.
Get the support you need to win and take home $$ too.
Call Marcie at 462-3943.
Thursday, January 13
9:30 a.m. BREAKFAST
Hot and tasty, pour yourself some coffee, tea and juice,
and get some morning cheer.
$4, suggested donation over 60; $5, under 60;
$3, kids under 12.
3:00 p.m. Feel Your Body With Exercise Class
~FREE~
5:00 p.m. DINNER
Upside-Down Pizza, Brussel Sprouts, Soup, Salad Bar & Fruit Salad,
and Peanut Butter Cookies. Beverages too!
Friday, January 14
Granny's Closet Open 1:00-5:00 p.m
Nothin' like Granny's deals to make you feel great.
Check it out.
Saturday, January 15
Granny's is open 10 a.m. til 4 p.m
Gently worn clothing for all sizes and both sexes.
Don't worry if you forget something down below, she has it here.
Linens, blankies, baby shoes, books, house ware, tools.
The Senior Center is open Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-7.
Located at 261 S. Middle Fork Road, a few curves north of
the video store (get a video before you head up).
Free wifi and internet use. Movies, books & magazines to browse.
Sofas to rest your bones. Play the piano or just croon a tune.
The Center is user-friendly!
208-462-3943 for info on Meals on Wheels or programs.
3:00 p.m. Exercise Class ~FREE
Fit & Fall-Proof Easy does it for you!
Relax, stretch, improve balance and feel good.
3:30 p.m. Board convenes to figure out good stuff for you!
5:00 p.m. DINNER IS SERVED
BBQ Pork Ribs, Potatoes, Green Beans, Soup, Salad Bar,
French Bread and Peach Cobbler.
Affordable family prices: $5, suggested donation for adults 60+;
$4, kids under 12; $6, adults under 60.
Wednesday, January 12
9:30 a.m. Quilt Guild Meets Here
5:30 p.m. Weight Loss Challenge!
2nd week, time to join and lose those pounds and inches.
Get the support you need to win and take home $$ too.
Call Marcie at 462-3943.
Thursday, January 13
9:30 a.m. BREAKFAST
Hot and tasty, pour yourself some coffee, tea and juice,
and get some morning cheer.
$4, suggested donation over 60; $5, under 60;
$3, kids under 12.
3:00 p.m. Feel Your Body With Exercise Class
~FREE~
5:00 p.m. DINNER
Upside-Down Pizza, Brussel Sprouts, Soup, Salad Bar & Fruit Salad,
and Peanut Butter Cookies. Beverages too!
Friday, January 14
Granny's Closet Open 1:00-5:00 p.m
Nothin' like Granny's deals to make you feel great.
Check it out.
Saturday, January 15
Granny's is open 10 a.m. til 4 p.m
Gently worn clothing for all sizes and both sexes.
Don't worry if you forget something down below, she has it here.
Linens, blankies, baby shoes, books, house ware, tools.
The Senior Center is open Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-7.
Located at 261 S. Middle Fork Road, a few curves north of
the video store (get a video before you head up).
Free wifi and internet use. Movies, books & magazines to browse.
Sofas to rest your bones. Play the piano or just croon a tune.
The Center is user-friendly!
208-462-3943 for info on Meals on Wheels or programs.
January 10-14: A Week of Meetings
Monday, January 10
6:00 p.m. REGULAR SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
GARDEN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT #71
Garden Valley School Multipurpose Room
The mission of the Garden Valley School District is
to provide educational excellence, allowing students to
succeed in an ever-changing, technological world.
*** Welcome and Greeting ***
6:00 - Meeting begins
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Approve and Adopt Agenda
5. Comments from the Board
a. Chair
b. All Members
6. Consent Agenda
a. Approval of Minutes of Special December meeting (10th),
and Regular December meeting (13th). Posted Special
Meeting for December 14th was cancelled by notice.
b. Treasurer's Report
c. Payment of Bills and Journal Entries
7. Delegations and Reports
a. Regularly Scheduled Delegations
1. Facilities, Maintenance, and Grounds - Codey Huston
2. PTO/Booster Club
b. Requested Delegations
1. McKinstry - update on boiler
c. Principal's Report - Mr. Vian
1. Activities Report
2. Student Updates
3. Other
d. Superintendent's Report - Dr. Tomlin
1. AmeriGas School Days Program
a. Employee discount
2. Discussion of Supplemental Levy and budget outlook
[See action item 9.a.2.]
3. Job description updates [See action item 9.a.1.]
4. Policy updates.
5. Receipt of letter from GVEA regarding negotiations
[See action items 9.b.1,2]
6. ISBA Day on the Hill
8. Community Forum [Speakers are limited to three minutes
each, and may not make open session comments critical of
students, minor children or employees of the district]
9. Action Items
a. Old Business
1. Consideration of motion to adopt district job
descriptions for the following:
A. Principal
B. Teacher
C. Business and Human Resource Manager
D. School Secretary/Administrative Assistant
E. District Secretary/Administrative Assistant
2. Consideration of motion to set Supplemental Levy,
and amount.
3. Discussion of Zone III Trustee vacancy regarding
potential appointment.
b. New Business
1. Election of Board Treasurer [Replacement for Janell Ward].
2. Election of Board Assistant Treasurer [If needed].
3. Consideration of motion to recognize the Garden Valley
Education Association (GVEA) as the chosen representative
organization of the certified non-administrative employees
of the Garden Valley School District.
4. Consideration of motion to enter into negotiations of a Master
Contract to define compensation and working conditions
as mutually agreed by the GVEA and Garden Valley School District.
10. Executive Session
a. Executive session is planned to:
1. Consider the evaluation, dismissal or disciplining of, or to
hear complaints or charges brought against, a public officer,
employee, staff member or individual agent, or public school
student. [Idaho Code 67-2345(1)(b)]
2. Communicate with legal counsel to discuss the legal
ramifications of and legal options for pending litigation, or
controversies not yet being litigated but imminently likely to be
litigated. [Idaho Code 67-2345(1)(f)]
11. Re-convene in Open Session.
a. Possible other actions or motions from Executive
Session.
1. Annual consideration of Superintendent's contract.
2. Other.
12. Adjourn
THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE
THE AGENDA PRIOR TO OR AT THE MEETING.
If any auxiliary aids or services are needed for individuals
with disabilities, please contact (Paula Fox) at 462-3756
no later than three (3) working days before the meeting.
Thank you,
Paula Fox
Business and Human Resource Mgr
Clerk, Board of Trustees
Garden Valley School District #71
PO Box 710
1053 Banks Lowman Rd
Garden Valley ID 83622
208-462-3756 ext 1013
Tuesday, January 11
3:30 p.m. Senior Center Board Meeting
261 S. Middle Fork Road
7:00 p.m. GV Community Choir
LDS Church Music Room
The choir is meeting to begin its rehearsals for Spring Concert
or just join in to sing for fun.
Information: Gary Sherwood 208-462-2500
Wednesday, January 12
6:30 p.m. Crouch City Council
Crouch Community Hall
Information: County Clerk Kim Bosse 208-462-4687
On Agenda: Rural Development Application Presentation; Status of Energy Grant Work; Re-address Location of James Castle Artwork.
Thursday, January 13
10:00 a.m. Friends of the Garden Valley Library
Terrace Lakes Restaurant
Come grab a coffee and join in on the discussion.
4:00 p.m. Library Board of Trustees
Meeting at New Library, 83 Old Crouch Road
~~Will discuss old Library.
6:00 p.m. GV Chamber of Commerce
Crouch Community Hall
Agenda for January 13, 2011
Nametags will be provided at the door along with Membership Forms for new members and renewing members
Call to Order 1800-Welcome
Old Business
· Review Minutes-(November 2010)
· Treasurers Report-(to date)
· Membership Dues have mailed out
· Greg Simione-Certificate of appreciation
New Business
· Todayz4 Magazine would like a calendar of events for the Chamber
· Spring Fling will be April 23rd, Carol Sharff will head up the craft
· 4th of July Celbration will be on the 4th
o Committees-John Jauregui will chair the parade committee
o Duck Race
o Booths
o Fireworks
o Other
· Trunk or Treat will be held the Saturday prior to Halloween
o Committees-John Jauregui will head it up
Member updates-open to all members to pitch their product or update us on what’s going on with their businesses.
Adjourn-1830
Presentation of the Job Creation/Job Retention Seminar-1830-2030
~~~~~~~~~
Hey Fellow Chamber Members,
Come to the January “Meet and Eat” meeting. Chicken Gumbo
and dessert will be served during the regular business meeting,
which will be a brief update from all members present, so here’s
your chance to pitch your business or update us all on what’s
going on in your business world.
Following the regular meeting will be a presentation for the
newly forming GV Job Creation/Retention Council. If you do not
wish to participate, you can come for the regular meeting and then
feel free to leave; it could be very informational though, so you
might want to consider staying to see what it’s all about.
GARDEN VALLEY JOB CREATION/RETENTION COUNCIL
STRATEGIC “GAME PLAN” MEETING
ALL ARE INVITED
While the Chamber and its council will implement the plan when
it is complete, input from all citizens is requested. The council needs
to be sure all interests are included in the plan. A second meeting
reviewing the results of the plan will be held in February in time to
complete it. The plan will then become the foundation for inclusion
in the updated Southwestern Idaho Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy update necessary for grant applications.
All are invited. Please RSVP to the Garden Valley Chamber at
208-462-5003. We need your name, phone number and email
address so we can plan properly and contact everyone regarding
the outcomes.
Both John Cottingham and I sincerely hope you all can make it!
Diane Caughlin, Co President
Greater Garden Valley area Chamber of Commerce
Working Together To: “Strengthen economic development while
maintaining our pristine quality of life in Garden Valley by promoting
local businesses and advocating for a positive, proactive and
progressive community.”
6:00 p.m. REGULAR SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
GARDEN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT #71
Garden Valley School Multipurpose Room
The mission of the Garden Valley School District is
to provide educational excellence, allowing students to
succeed in an ever-changing, technological world.
*** Welcome and Greeting ***
6:00 - Meeting begins
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Approve and Adopt Agenda
5. Comments from the Board
a. Chair
b. All Members
6. Consent Agenda
a. Approval of Minutes of Special December meeting (10th),
and Regular December meeting (13th). Posted Special
Meeting for December 14th was cancelled by notice.
b. Treasurer's Report
c. Payment of Bills and Journal Entries
7. Delegations and Reports
a. Regularly Scheduled Delegations
1. Facilities, Maintenance, and Grounds - Codey Huston
2. PTO/Booster Club
b. Requested Delegations
1. McKinstry - update on boiler
c. Principal's Report - Mr. Vian
1. Activities Report
2. Student Updates
3. Other
d. Superintendent's Report - Dr. Tomlin
1. AmeriGas School Days Program
a. Employee discount
2. Discussion of Supplemental Levy and budget outlook
[See action item 9.a.2.]
3. Job description updates [See action item 9.a.1.]
4. Policy updates.
5. Receipt of letter from GVEA regarding negotiations
[See action items 9.b.1,2]
6. ISBA Day on the Hill
8. Community Forum [Speakers are limited to three minutes
each, and may not make open session comments critical of
students, minor children or employees of the district]
9. Action Items
a. Old Business
1. Consideration of motion to adopt district job
descriptions for the following:
A. Principal
B. Teacher
C. Business and Human Resource Manager
D. School Secretary/Administrative Assistant
E. District Secretary/Administrative Assistant
2. Consideration of motion to set Supplemental Levy,
and amount.
3. Discussion of Zone III Trustee vacancy regarding
potential appointment.
b. New Business
1. Election of Board Treasurer [Replacement for Janell Ward].
2. Election of Board Assistant Treasurer [If needed].
3. Consideration of motion to recognize the Garden Valley
Education Association (GVEA) as the chosen representative
organization of the certified non-administrative employees
of the Garden Valley School District.
4. Consideration of motion to enter into negotiations of a Master
Contract to define compensation and working conditions
as mutually agreed by the GVEA and Garden Valley School District.
10. Executive Session
a. Executive session is planned to:
1. Consider the evaluation, dismissal or disciplining of, or to
hear complaints or charges brought against, a public officer,
employee, staff member or individual agent, or public school
student. [Idaho Code 67-2345(1)(b)]
2. Communicate with legal counsel to discuss the legal
ramifications of and legal options for pending litigation, or
controversies not yet being litigated but imminently likely to be
litigated. [Idaho Code 67-2345(1)(f)]
11. Re-convene in Open Session.
a. Possible other actions or motions from Executive
Session.
1. Annual consideration of Superintendent's contract.
2. Other.
12. Adjourn
THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE
THE AGENDA PRIOR TO OR AT THE MEETING.
If any auxiliary aids or services are needed for individuals
with disabilities, please contact (Paula Fox) at 462-3756
no later than three (3) working days before the meeting.
Thank you,
Paula Fox
Business and Human Resource Mgr
Clerk, Board of Trustees
Garden Valley School District #71
PO Box 710
1053 Banks Lowman Rd
Garden Valley ID 83622
208-462-3756 ext 1013
Tuesday, January 11
3:30 p.m. Senior Center Board Meeting
261 S. Middle Fork Road
7:00 p.m. GV Community Choir
LDS Church Music Room
The choir is meeting to begin its rehearsals for Spring Concert
or just join in to sing for fun.
Information: Gary Sherwood 208-462-2500
Wednesday, January 12
6:30 p.m. Crouch City Council
Crouch Community Hall
Information: County Clerk Kim Bosse 208-462-4687
On Agenda: Rural Development Application Presentation; Status of Energy Grant Work; Re-address Location of James Castle Artwork.
Thursday, January 13
10:00 a.m. Friends of the Garden Valley Library
Terrace Lakes Restaurant
Come grab a coffee and join in on the discussion.
4:00 p.m. Library Board of Trustees
Meeting at New Library, 83 Old Crouch Road
~~Will discuss old Library.
6:00 p.m. GV Chamber of Commerce
Crouch Community Hall
Agenda for January 13, 2011
Nametags will be provided at the door along with Membership Forms for new members and renewing members
Call to Order 1800-Welcome
Old Business
· Review Minutes-(November 2010)
· Treasurers Report-(to date)
· Membership Dues have mailed out
· Greg Simione-Certificate of appreciation
New Business
· Todayz4 Magazine would like a calendar of events for the Chamber
· Spring Fling will be April 23rd, Carol Sharff will head up the craft
· 4th of July Celbration will be on the 4th
o Committees-John Jauregui will chair the parade committee
o Duck Race
o Booths
o Fireworks
o Other
· Trunk or Treat will be held the Saturday prior to Halloween
o Committees-John Jauregui will head it up
Member updates-open to all members to pitch their product or update us on what’s going on with their businesses.
Adjourn-1830
Presentation of the Job Creation/Job Retention Seminar-1830-2030
~~~~~~~~~
Hey Fellow Chamber Members,
Come to the January “Meet and Eat” meeting. Chicken Gumbo
and dessert will be served during the regular business meeting,
which will be a brief update from all members present, so here’s
your chance to pitch your business or update us all on what’s
going on in your business world.
Following the regular meeting will be a presentation for the
newly forming GV Job Creation/Retention Council. If you do not
wish to participate, you can come for the regular meeting and then
feel free to leave; it could be very informational though, so you
might want to consider staying to see what it’s all about.
GARDEN VALLEY JOB CREATION/RETENTION COUNCIL
STRATEGIC “GAME PLAN” MEETING
ALL ARE INVITED
While the Chamber and its council will implement the plan when
it is complete, input from all citizens is requested. The council needs
to be sure all interests are included in the plan. A second meeting
reviewing the results of the plan will be held in February in time to
complete it. The plan will then become the foundation for inclusion
in the updated Southwestern Idaho Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy update necessary for grant applications.
All are invited. Please RSVP to the Garden Valley Chamber at
208-462-5003. We need your name, phone number and email
address so we can plan properly and contact everyone regarding
the outcomes.
Both John Cottingham and I sincerely hope you all can make it!
Diane Caughlin, Co President
Greater Garden Valley area Chamber of Commerce
Working Together To: “Strengthen economic development while
maintaining our pristine quality of life in Garden Valley by promoting
local businesses and advocating for a positive, proactive and
progressive community.”
JOB CREATION COUNCIL: Game Plan Meeting
ALL ARE INVITED
The Greater Garden Valley Chamber of Commerce is in the process of creating a 501c3 non-profit subsidiary organization called the Garden Valley Job Creation/Retention Council with the State of Idaho and the US IRS. As a non-profit whose purpose is to create new jobs and retain existing jobs in the greater Garden Valley area (Banks to Lowman), the council will apply for significant grants to support job growth projects. Council members must be members of the Chamber as individuals or businesses.
To best meet the needs of all citizens, business owners and employees, the council will hold an initial meeting at 6:00 p.m. for two hours, in the Crouch Community Hall, on January 13, 2011.
The purpose of the meeting is to develop the foundation for a strategic “Game Plan” for the greater Garden Valley area. That plan will identify specific job-producing opportunities and the infrastructure and education projects necessary to make them successful. It will provide a schedule of activities that must be accomplished to obtain the grants necessary to finance the projects.
The “Game Plan” meeting will follow the general chamber meeting and if Chamber members don’t wish to stay for that portion of the meeting, they are welcome to come to the “meet and eat” chamber meeting and then leave.
While the Chamber and its council will implement the plan when it is complete, input from all citizens is requested. The council needs to be sure all interests are included in the plan. A second meeting reviewing the results of the plan will be held in February, in time to complete it. The plan will then become the foundation for inclusion in the updated Southwestern Idaho Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy update necessary for grant applications.
All are invited. Please RSVP to the Garden Valley Chamber at 208-462-5003. We need your name, phone number and email address so we can plan properly and contact everyone regarding the outcomes.
The Greater Garden Valley Chamber of Commerce is in the process of creating a 501c3 non-profit subsidiary organization called the Garden Valley Job Creation/Retention Council with the State of Idaho and the US IRS. As a non-profit whose purpose is to create new jobs and retain existing jobs in the greater Garden Valley area (Banks to Lowman), the council will apply for significant grants to support job growth projects. Council members must be members of the Chamber as individuals or businesses.
To best meet the needs of all citizens, business owners and employees, the council will hold an initial meeting at 6:00 p.m. for two hours, in the Crouch Community Hall, on January 13, 2011.
The purpose of the meeting is to develop the foundation for a strategic “Game Plan” for the greater Garden Valley area. That plan will identify specific job-producing opportunities and the infrastructure and education projects necessary to make them successful. It will provide a schedule of activities that must be accomplished to obtain the grants necessary to finance the projects.
The “Game Plan” meeting will follow the general chamber meeting and if Chamber members don’t wish to stay for that portion of the meeting, they are welcome to come to the “meet and eat” chamber meeting and then leave.
While the Chamber and its council will implement the plan when it is complete, input from all citizens is requested. The council needs to be sure all interests are included in the plan. A second meeting reviewing the results of the plan will be held in February, in time to complete it. The plan will then become the foundation for inclusion in the updated Southwestern Idaho Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy update necessary for grant applications.
All are invited. Please RSVP to the Garden Valley Chamber at 208-462-5003. We need your name, phone number and email address so we can plan properly and contact everyone regarding the outcomes.
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