Thursday, May 31, 2012

Donald Zolan's Unrivaled Artistry

Devoting a small amount of time every day to enjoy amazing and\or wondrous things beyond Palouse horizons is relaxing and good for us. It helps offset daily stress, and TV's bad news fare.

Donald Zoland's artistry is truly wonderful. His love and joy is reflected in his unrivaled paintings of children, which makes me smile everytime I recall how sensitively and beautifully he captures the essence of childhood.

Wallcoo.net features Zoland. Click on his painting on the left, and then scroll down to the enlarged image. Click Next Page, and continue until you're satiated with Zolan's awesome awe-inspiring story-pictures. They are guaranteed to elicit smiles, and relax you.

Zolan says about his love of children, so obvious in his paintings,
"I love little children, the way their eyes light up with excitement as they awaken to the world around them. It’s a marvelous time of life, filled with wonderment. A time when each new discovery is another magical moment."
In addition to his remarkable paintings, Wallcoo.net includes Zolan's biography, a fine testament to why his work is highly prized wordwide.

Donald Zolan's website.

I you find a link to something you feel is outstanding, or that inspires you, please share it -- Email the link to newstnpw@air-pipe.com, so it can be published in The North Palouse Washington e-Newscast, "Relaxing Moments." Please put "Relaxing Moment" in the Subject line.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

SESC Fair Royalty Court Photograph



Images aren't published in this paper to avoid difficulty for Palouse residents with dial-up Internet connections. However, you'll find a photograph of the three charming young ladies of Southeast Spokane County Fair Royalty Court, who were crowned at the coronation ceremony, May 20, 2012, on the Freeman School Distrtict website.  Queen Kailyn Gady, and princesses, Morgan DeRuyter, and Brooke Williams.

2011-2012 Freeman School District June Events



The 2011-12 school year is coming to a close, and parents of students K-12 at Freeman Schools will receive the PSTA Newsletter via email, June 7, 2012.


High School graduation is June 9, 2012, Play Day and 8th Grade Promotion takes place June 14, 2012, and the final day of the school term is June 15, 2012.


 Final School Year Choir Concert - High School Multipurpose Room, at 7:00 p.m., June 4, 2012.


Details are on the school calendar,  and also can be obtained by calling the office, (509) 291-3695. Freeman School District #358 office is at 15001 S. Jackson Road, near the junction with Highway 27.

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Rockford Resident Mona Vanek Featured in The River Journal Magazine


When Trish Gannon, editor of The River Journal, asked to interview me, Mona Vanek, resident of Rockford, Wash., author and editor, it offered a golden opportunity to spread the word about upcoming third editions of Behind These Mountain, vol. 1, 2, and 3.

The River Journal May 2012 issue, with The Montana Scribbler has History at her Fingertips,  became available in Idaho and Montana May 8th. The online story, in full color, was published on the Internet the next day. The feature also relates the story behind the Montana history for which Idaho Writers League honored me with their "1992 Writer of the Year" award.

When have all three volumes ready (ie: edited, revised and written in e-format) the volumes will be published as e-books and made available on electronic devices such as Nook, Kindle and Sony. It's challenging, and keeps me young!

Nevertheless, whenever you see me here on the Palouse, don't expect me to look like the photo in Trish's article. Image is an important aspect of publicity, so when the editor asked for a photo, the .jpg I sent along for the magazine interview was a snapshot taken shortly after we moved to Rockford. A grandson's girlfriend, who worked in the makeup\perfume department in an upscale department store, "did our makeup" for us gals one day. She had us all giggling!

Since that snapshot looks like a studio portrait, I knew that it would reproduce well in print and online editions of The River Journal, because the background is uncluttered. It also makes me look the part of a professional writer, rather than the contented great-grandma I really am. [Big grin] It sure makes me look pretty and professional, but you'll see the real "me" in my website profile .

During 1986 and 1992, when published by The Statesman-Examiner, in Colville, Wash., Behind These Mountains print editions were small runs, so 1st Editions sold out and are now rare collectible books.

More than 28,000 people, worldwide, have viewed the 2nd Edition, published in 2010 on the Internet. Weekly visits exceed 200, and continue to increase.

A big THANK YOU to Trish Gannon for providing an opportunity to announce the upcoming 3rd Edition of a unique, fully-documented, Montana history.

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

"STARS AND BARS FOREVER" Marine-Moms-Bethesda 2012 Raffle Quilt



MarineMoms-Bethesda are again raffling a stunning handmade quilt to raise funds to support our troops. The drawing will be August 16, 2012 at their Mercy Hall luncheon. The quilt measures 52" x 66" and tickets are $1 or 6 for $5.

"100% of funds raised will directly support our luncheons at Walter Reed NMMC and Richmond VAMC serving the wounded, injured and ill combat patients and their families," organization sponsors said.

Check or money order (no cash) made to MarineMoms-Bethesda, and mailed to: P.O. Box 22, Cordova, MD  21625. Please note "Quilt" in the memo line, and include name and phone number so they can notify you when you win. If you order by mail, acknowledgement will be send via e-mail, so please include your e-mail address, too.

MarineMoms-Bethesda thank everyone for their support of the combat troops and their families at the Bethesda Hospital.

Don't forget to e-mail notes of encouragement and support to give to the wounded, injured and ill combat patients at monthly luncheons held by MarineMoms-Bethesda.

See details here.


Congratulations to Jeff Kent, Emma Akin, and Cassie Thompson




The GarPal Colton men's and women's track teams fared very well at the District 9 Championships in Clarkston, May 17-18.

On the Men's side, Senior Jeff Kent took 2nd place in all three of his events, and will advance to State 2B competition next week in the 100m (11.61, season PR), 200m (23.68), and Pole Vault (10'6", matching his PR at state last year). 

On the Women's side, Senior Emma Akin placed 3rd in the triple jump (30'1.25") and will advance to State.  Junior Cassie Thompson placed 3rd in the long jump (14'7.5") and will also advance.

Other results:  Akin also placed 7th in the 100m (14.54) and Thompson placed 5th in 200m (29.68).  Senior Grace Druffel finished 4th in the 400m ( PR 69.07) and 5th in the 300m hurdles (matched her PR of 54.81).  Senior Jessie Hathaway placed 8th in the District in the Discus (74'8"); Junior Holly Leendertsen was 6th in the long jump (matched her PR of 14'3").  The 4x100m women's relay team of Leendertsen, Akin, Druffel, and Thompson placed 4th (over 1 second PR 55.02).

Senior Derrick Bosch placed 7th in the discus (111'7"0). Junior Nick Robertson finished 4th in the 400m (55.71), 7th in the 100m (12.65) and 8th in the 200m (26.06).

The State 2B Track and Field Championships begin Friday, May 25 at 10am, and continue on Saturday.  

Memorial Day Dinner at Palouse Community Center


Memorial Day Dinner

at the Palouse Community Center

Monday, May 28, noon to 2 pm


Roast Beef and all the fixin’s!

$8  adults

$6  12 & under

Monday, May 21, 2012

Kailyn Gady Crowned Queen of 2012 Southeast Spokane County Fair


Judges selected the 2012-'13 SE Spokane County Fair Royalty Court at the Sunday evening coronation ceremony at McIntosh Grange, Rockford, Wash. Beautiful Girls, Fancy Dresses, Tiara's, Sashes and Flowers made for a very special evening in Rockford last night, May 20, 2012, where the 2012 Queen and two Princess's were crowned.
  • QUEEN- Kailyn Gady, daughter of David and Sherrie Gady of Rockford Washington and a current Junior at Freeman High School.
  • PRINCESS-Morgan DeRuyter, daughter of Will Deruyter of Valleyford Washington and a current Junior at Freeman High School.
  • PRINCESS-Brooke Williams, daughter of Scott and Stacy of Rockford Washington and a current Sophomore at Freeman High School.
Previously, the girls submitted essay's, attended a mother daughter tea, and a Ice cream social with their Sponsors. Sunday afternoon was spent interviewing with judges, Dawn Payne, Licensed Registered Dental Assistant and Office Manager, Spokane Valley, Sr. Master Sgt., Dave Walker, US Air Force, Airway Heights, and Amy Mercer, owner of Capello Salon, Liberty Lake.

As the day progressed, friends and families of the nine contestants gathered at the McIntosh Grange to support these brave young ladies as they quieted their nerves, and proceeded to deliver carefully prepared and practiced speeches.

While the judges, faced with the challenging task of narrowing the contestants to only three of nine, carefully calculated the scores to determine who would be awarded the opportunity to represent the community in which they live and love, dessert was served.

The following nine young ladies circulated and chatted with audience members, parents, grandparents, friends and strangers while they awaited the judge's decision:
  • Aly Tee, a sophomore attending Liberty High School from Latah. Sponsored by The Rockford VFW Post 7815.
  • Brooke Williams, a sophomore attending Freeman High School from Rockford. Sponsored by The Rockford Historical Society.
  • Cassidy Schultes, a sophomore attending Freeman High School from Rockford. Sponsored by the Rockford Women's Club.
  • Emily Mumby, a sophomore attending Liberty High School from Spangle. Sponsored by the The Rockford VFW ladies 7815.
  • Holly Cockle, a junior attending Liberty High School from Spangle. Sponsored by The Spangle Service Club.
  • Kailyn Gady, a junior attending Freeman High School from Rockford. Sponsored by The Rockford bells.
  • Kati Benson, a sophomore attending Freeman High School from Rockford. Sponsored by The American Legion Post 165.
  • Kelsey Burton, a sophomore attending Freeman High School from Rockford. Sponsored by the The McIntosh Grange.
  • Morgan DeRuyter. a junior attending Freeman High School from Valleyford. Sponsored by the The Rockford Lyons.
When John Solomon, Master of Ceremonies, returned to the stage, the crowed silenced, and the new SE Spokane County Fair Royalty was announced. Members of the outgoing Royalty Court stepped onto the stage to crown the young ladies who accepted the current roles and responsibilities. In addition to crowns, beautiful bouquets were given to the Queen and Princess's.
  
Congratulations to the girls on their outstanding effort.

Thank you to all who attended and supported this annual event. Special thanks to the royalty committee, Kris Pettibone and Amanda Miller, and to the many contest sponsors and contributors, and to McIntosh Grange for use of the Grange Hall.

We hope to see you at the Fair!

Beverly Fox is Retiring - Join Her to Celebrate, June 8, 2012



Beverly Fox is retiring!  We invite you to celebrate with Bev Friday, June 8, 2012, from 1:30 - 3:00 p.m., in the Palouse School library.


Bev has faithfully served the Garfield and Palouse Schools for 38 years as a mother, teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent. Our students and staff have benefited from her dedication to excellence.

Bev will be greatly missed by those of us who have had the privilege of working with her on a daily basis. 

It is our hope that you will attend this time of celebration.

                               

Saturday, May 12, 2012

South East Spokane County Fair Royalty Coronation at Rockford, Wash., May 20, 2012


South East Spokane County Fair Royalty Coronation

Date: May 20, 2012

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Place: McIntosh Grange Hall  corner of 1st and Lake,  Rockford, Wash.,  99036

The 2012 queen and two princesses will be crowned during the evening event.
Dessert, and visiting with Royalty will follow. 2011 SESC Fair Royalty may also be present.

$5.00 per person. All proceeds benefit the local royalty committee.

Friday, May 11, 2012

"American Pickers" of History Channel Fame Coming to Washington State


Just in case you haven’t heard, it’s true – Mike and Frank from the History Channel show, “American Pickers” are coming to Washington. The crew plans to be in Washington in June, so if you’re interested, don’t delay, call today. (509) 397-5246 ext. 5246.
If you or someone you know might have items on their list that you or they would be willing to sell, contact Maribeth in the Commissioners’ office at 509-397-5246 ext. 5246.  Ann Thompson <deputyclerk@palouse.com> can provide a copy of the list.

Please note the items at the top of the page Mike and Frank are not currently purchasing.

2012 Palouse River Duathlon May 12, 2012


2012 Palouse River Duathlon
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Palouse and vicinity

Show time: Race Packets/Registration opens at 7:30am
Go Time: 9:00am Start

Click here for more details

Volunteers Needed at Palouse Community Center, May 14, 2012


Volunteers needed next Monday, May 14, 2012, @ 5:30 pm.

Meet at the Palouse Community Center in Palouse, Wash., with your shovels and wheelbarrows to help move dirt and river rock.

Things are coming along nicely.  The area between the PCC and the Open Eye will eventually be leveled for seating and landscaping.

Anyone can help, every little bit helps.

Thank you everyone!

Kudos to Rockford's Water System Repair Crew!


Residence in southwest Rockford have had their water supply shut off, intermittently, the past two days as crews struggle to find the source of a massive leak from the city's water tank on the hill.

Kudos to the men doing all the digging and repairing!!

Anyone who has had a private well knows the difficulty, frustration, and unpredictable difficulties involved in repairing an underground water leak, especially in a pressurized system.

Give the men a big smile and thumbs up if you drive by to see what's going on where the equipment blocks the road connecting Maple Street at the southern end of town.

Water has only been turned off for brief periods, for which all are grateful, even though it's a little inconvenient at times. The duration is short.

Monday, May 7, 2012

May - 100th Anniversary of Marine Corps Aviation


Technically speaking, the following is an advertisement -- however since every town has at least one veteran who has returned home, and perhaps also war-heros who are recovering at Walter Reed Hospital, I believe this warrants a Front Page story. MarineMoms-Bethesda send a monthly newsletter to anyone who wishes to recieve it. The following is excerpted from the May newsletter.

Greetings!

I hope today finds everyone well and happy!

Did you know May is the 100th Anniversary of Marine Corps Aviation? Read about it at Marine Aviation Centennial.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the United States Marine Corps AIR WING from Marine Moms-Bethesda!
================

Our deepest THANKS go out to our Supporters who help Marine Moms-Bethesda bring touches and comforts of home through our luncheons to the patients, families and often the staff who care for them at Walter Reed and Richmond VA Medical Center.

They appreciate “something different” in the way of food when they are eating cafeteria or fast food every day. “Niftie-gifties”, little things like CDs, books, quilts, pillowcases, cards, the “Notes 4 Bethesda” are also appreciated because these small gestures of good thoughts and kindness are letting them know people are thinking of them.

Our normal day to day life goes on. Their’s does not. They have entered a world of doctors, surgeries and more surgeries, wound cleansing, lab work, IV tubes, and oh so much more. Then comes the process of rehabilitation – prosthetic fittings, learning to walk again, physical therapy, doctors appointments, and learning how to cope with their “new normal”. Your support is deeply appreciated.
One of the most satisfying things for us to see is when a wounded Warrior or a family member comes in to our luncheon, perhaps not in the best of moods, and leaves with a big smile on their face! YOU have helped to brighten their day! Thank You!!!
============
Update:  ***  Annual Quilt Raffle:
Thank you, Bayside Quilters of Easton, MD for you generous donation of this year’s gorgeous raffle quilt, “Stars and Bars Forever”! Our Annual Quilt Raffle has begun! We know you will be pleased with this year’s choice! “Stars and Bars Forever” measures 52" x 66", Chris and Jane made the top, and Cindy and Beth hand quilted it.

Tickets are $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00. 100% of the funds raised directly support our luncheons at Walter Reed and Mercy Hall. Checks or money orders should be made out to “Marine Moms Bethesda” and may be mailed to:

Marine Moms Bethesda
P.O. Box 22
Cordova, MD 21625

More information about the raffle is here.


Every quilt has a story and the story behind making “Stars and Bars Forever” is here.

===============
***Note Request:
We will be on 4 East Sunday, May 20th and are collecting encouragement and support notes for the wounded, injured and ill combat patients.

 
We will print them out and hand deliver them on your behalf during the luncheon. More information including deadline dates for the notes may be found here.


 ===============
***We’ve Expanded Again! Yesterday we hosted our first luncheon on the Traumatic Brain Injury Ward at Walter Reed.

Thank you Katie, Jillian and Mary for your help! Special thanks to the Doctors, Nurses and Corpsmen we met who take such good care of the patients and families there and who helped us set up and pack up. We enjoyed meeting everyone and are looking forward to coming back again!
================
***YES THERE IS HELP! Did you know our website provides links to help for wounded Warriors and their families? There are also links in the sidebar.
================
That’s it for today. If you like what you’ve read, please forward this on to your friends!

Until next time, continued prayers for our military and their families.

Love and Hugs,
Jane
MarineMoms-Bethesda.org.

p.s. Subscribe at the website to receive the newsletter.

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Fiber Fusion Reception May 6, 2012 in Uniontown, Wash.


The opening reception for seven resident artists at Artisans at the Dahmen Barn is scheduled for Sunday, May 6 from 1;00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  The artists,who make up the entity that is Fiber Fusion, will have work on display in the barn's Hayloft Gallery from May 6 through 27, 2012.

Friday, May 4, 2012

GarPal Colton Had a Great Last Track Meet, May 2, 201



The last regular season meet in Clarkston was Weds. May 2.  The GarPal Colton team had a great day.  With good weather there were many PR's and the athletes are ready for Post Season!

On the Men's Side: Junior Anthony Floyd won the javelin competition with his PR throw (142'5") yielding him a ranking of 3rd in our district and a good shot at a state berth!  He also PRd in the 100m (12.59) and placed 6th in the long jump, nearing his PR!  Senior Jeff Kent won the pole vault (10'0).  He also placed 2nd in both the 100m (11.71) and the 200m (23.98) and placed 3rd in the 400m with a PR (53.84).  Kent is currently ranked 2nd in the district in the 100m and pole vault, 3rd in the 200m, and 4th in the 400m.  He is ranked 9th in the state in the 200m, and 12th in both the 100m and the pole vault.  Junior Nick Robertson placed 4th in the 400m (56.08), 6th in the 200m with a season PR (25.37).  Sophomore Kevin Knauff had a HUGE PR in the 400m- 6 seconds better than any other race this season (59.47) and a PR in the shot (27'8.5").  Senior Derrick Bosch placed 7th in the discus (108'11") and 8th in the 800m (2:31.43).

On the Women's side: Junior Cassie Thompson placed 3rd in the long jump with a PR (14'11"), 3rd in the triple jump her first time ever trying (29'.5") and 4th in the 200m.  She is ranked 3rd in the district in the long jump at this time!  Senior Grace Druffel placed 5th in the 300m hurdles (57.63).  Junior Holly Leendertsen placed 5th in the long jump with a PR (14'2.5"), 6th in the 200m (30.14), and 7th in the 100m (14.37) and Javelin with a PR (72'3").  Senior Jessie Hathaway neared her PR in both the javelin and the discus.

The VikCats now prepare for next week's Subdistrict Meet. From that competition, the top 8 advance to the District Championships! From the District Championships, the top 2 boys and the top 3 girls will advance to the State 2B finals!

For complete results and rankings, visit here

Forwarded from Scott Kent and Patti Green-Kent

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Day Out For The Blind Dance, May 12, 2012


Day Out is sponsoring a dance for the Blind/sight impaired. Dance to the big band sounds of AVALON Saturday, May 12, 2012, 10:00 am – 12:000 pm, 1502 E. Holyoke, Spokane, Wash. Contact Email twstertwin@aol.com.

There is no charge, but please call in a reservation to 509-928-3401 or 509-487-8972. A sighted guest is welcome. Dance and enjoy listening to a live big band.