Intellectual Nourishment
The nice part about living in a small town is that when you don't know what you are doing, someone else does.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
November GSSD Meeting
The majority of the November water board meeting was taken in discussion of the new chlorination system. One of the engineers working on the project from Alpha Engineering was in attendance to present the suggested plan of action. It was determined that using gaseous chlorine would be less expensive than the tablet system previously considered. The Board was worried about the toxicity of the gas should there be a leak in the tank, but the engineer reassured them that as long as their was a vent in the chlorination building, that it would not be an issue.
The proposed system would take the pump from the Smith’s tank and put it after the chlorination building where it would pump water back up to the tank it originated from in a newly installed pipeline. This chlorination system would bring the water system up to code, chlorination-wise, with as little cost to the town as possible.
To pay for the system, the town needs a grant. The grant requires an income survey of every household. Most everyone should have already completed this before the December meeting, but if you have not, please come to the meeting so that the board can get that information. The December meeting will also host the public hearing for the 2010 budget and the water board will be filling the two board vacancies.
New lights will be installed at the park next to the pedestal in the corner. The lights will be new photocell lights which are more expensive, but more energy efficient.
Chrismtas Humor
"I stopped believing in Santa Claus when my mother took me to see him in a department store, and he asked for my autograph."
"You know you're getting old, when Santa starts looking younger."
Even before Christmas has said Hello, it's saying 'Buy Buy'
"I once bought my kids a set of batteries for Christmas with a note on it saying, toys not included."
"Christmas is the season when people run out of money before they run out of friends."
Reply to the November News
I just wanted to tell you of one of the funniest Halloween parties I remember. I think the year was 1949, everyone had gathered at the "Old church house" for fun and games. All the benches were pushed back against the wall. Everyone in town dressed up. My mom, Jessie Hunt, said she wasn't feeling well and would not be attending and she was going to bed. So we all went without her. In those days there was not such a thing as bought masks, and costumes, you had to come up with your own which was really a fun part of it.
So we are all having a great time when in through the front door came this old man and woman. They were kind of like bums/tramps. They went around poking people and laughing this hideous laugh. When finally they "unveiled." It was MY MOTHER and MILT HOLT.
Oh how we all laughed. It was certainly "THE" talk of the town for weeks. I thought you might enjoy that little story.
Cowboy Christmas Party
December 12, 2009
6:00PM
at Eagle Mountain Ranch
Dutch Oven Dinner
and Program
(Local Talent)
Cowboy Dress
This is gunna be some kind of round-up!
-Activities Committee of Gunlock Ward
Appreciation
On behalf of the Gunlock Informer, I wanted to say thank you for your support in so many ways. I really appreciate the articles, pictures and spotlights that have been submitted, and also for monetary contributions and donated supplies. All these things make the newsletter better. Thank you!
Gifts
Christmas is almost here.
Toys and games and playthings,
As we do every year?
Yes, for the magic of toyland,
Is part of the Yuletide lore
To gladden the heart of childhood,
But I shall give something more.
I shall give them more patience,
A more sympathetic ear,
A little more time for laughter,
Or tenderly dry a tear.
I shall take time to teach them
The joy of doing some task,
I'll try to find time to answer
More of the questions they ask.
Time to read books together,
And to take long walks in the sun,
Time for the bedtime story
After the day is done.
I shall give these to my children,
Weaving a closer tie.
Knitting our lives together
With gifts that money can't buy.
-Richardson-
December 2009 Events
Dec 10: Fire Meeting @ 7pm
Dec 12: Cowboy Christmas Party @ 6pm at Eagle Mountain Ranch
Dec 23: Gunlock Christmas Party @ 6:30 at the town Hall. It is not on the 24th this year.
Dec 25: Christmas Day
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Gunlock's Most Expensive Light Bulb
October’s waterboard meeting was short and concise. Most of the meeting was consumed with talks and planning for next years budget request.
Another major discussion was the size of the gravel that will be laid in the park.
A problem arose as the Board tried to figure out how to fix the light at the spring’s source. The light is nearly thirty feet tall and has been shot out by an unknown perpetrator. Utah Power used to be able to fix lights, but have since ceased to do so. With the light being so high, normal cherry-pickers would have a difficult time making the repair. Fixing the light will cost the town at least $200, possibly more.
Pie Crust Recipe
Start with
1 cup flour, then
1/2 cup butter, then
1/4 cup water and a
pinch of salt.
Put flour and salt in and cut in butter (Debbie uses a fork) and then put in water and mix until it just forms a ball. The less mixing the better. Roll it out in a circle and place in pie dish and fold over extra on the edge with whatever ruffle pattern making the edges thicker to hold in pie filling and less waste. Poke with fork all around crust. Bake until light brown at 475 degrees for about 8 minutes.
This can also be made in a bowl with a lid without even touching it. Add flour, salt and butter and roll in bowl until butter has made flour flakey. Add water and roll again until it forms a ball. Make a ball and roll it out for the pie pan.
Exiled: The Story of John Lathrop 1584-1653
This novel by Helene Holt covers the life of John Lathrop using historical documents and dates up until the time he is exiled to America. Although this man did not come over on the Mayflower with the pilgrims in 1620, he ended up in America before the Revolutionary War in 1634.
With a University Degree, John Lathrop began his career as a minister in the Church of England. He left the church and joined the Separatists since he did not agree with how the bishops denied men the exercise of their own free conscience. King Charles and Bishop Laud were forcing all the people to believe in the Church of England and were punishing, torturing and executing those who opposed them.
Lathrop held secret church meetings for the Separatists and wrote a letter to get the king’s attention to allow freedom of conscience. He then ended up in prison for defying the Church of England. While in prison his wife died and his family suffered since no one wanted to associate with a family that was not following the law. His children begged to have him released from prison and be exiled to America as punishment and permission was granted. He was allowed out of prison to earn the money necessary for passage on the ship. Lathrop settled in Boston, Massachusetts and continued as a minister there.
John Lathrop reminded me of the pilgrims and reading this book has really enlightened my thoughts on being grateful during this Thanksgiving season. The sacrifices people make to allow our freedom is priceless.
Another interesting thing is that there are many people related to John Lathrop including myself. Since his family has been here so long there are many descendants and the author has listed many in the appendix in the book.
We are truly blessed to have all the modern conveniences and freedoms where we live. It’s important to have holidays to remind us to remember and reevaluate.
This quote from the book is an excellent reminder.
“The most cruel exile comes, not from being forced to leave one’s country, but from standing alone in defense of principle while yet surrounded by one’s country men.”
Donations
The Gunlock Informer needs donations. We have kept up pretty well but we would like help if people want to give it. We are asking for legal size paper 8.5x14 since that is what we print it on and also rubber bands of any size that fits over doorknobs. These items cost $5-$7 and last a few months. If you are interested in donating please contact Sara at (435) 574-2641.
This Year's Town Halloween Party
The streets were lined with trick or treaters who gathered at the Town Hall when their bags were generously filled by Gunlock residents. Gunlock really knows how to throw a party.
November 2009 Town Events
Nov 5: GSSD Meeting at 7pm at the Town Hall
Nov 11: Veterans Day
Nov 12: Fire Meeting @ 7pm.
Nov 26: Thanksgiving Day
Thursday, October 1, 2009
September GSSD Meeting
The GSSD board members met again after two months. The grant for the chlorination system was not taken care of during the summer since Odean Bowler was so busy. Nadine Heaton and Scott Holt said they would help get the grant done with Bowler. They are hoping to have the meter read with the chlorination system put in next year.
Don Norton has received permission to add another water share to Gunlock’s water source, transferring a share from Veyo. With this addition, there will be 101 shares if it all works out.
The elections this year will be simple since Scott Holt was the only person to submit his name as a candidate and there are three vacancies. Odean Bowler said he was submitting his name late. There will not be an election since there are not enough candidates, and Holt and Bowler will just be appointed. The last opening will be appointed when a volunteer has presented themselves. The board said Gunlock residents will vote for the NWSSD and the Transportation District by mailing in ballots.
The board is expecting to go over expenses during the October meeting.
October or Halloween Recipe
Pumpkin Sauce for Pasta
3 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
1 onion, peeled and finely chopped
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 LB pumpkin flesh, peeled seeded and diced (use one pumpkin about 1 3/4 LB)
8 fl oz strong vegetable stock
2 tbsp. parsley, or 1 tsp. dried parsley
4 fl oz single cream
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
pinch of salt
pinch of ground black pepper
pasta, freshly cooked, to serve
Gently fry the garlic and onion in the oil for 3 or 4 minutes. Do not allow them to burn. Add the pumpkin and vegetable stock and bring to the boil. Cover and simmer over a medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin is tender. Break up the pumpkin by beating it with a wooden spoon, and stir in the parsley, cream, nutmeg and seasoning. Cook for a further minute and add a little of the pasta cooking water if the sauce is too thick. Pour over the pasta and serve immediately. Serves 3.
http://www.pumpkin-patch.com/recipes_main.html
An Errand of Duty
As the wind slowly blew the leaves up the street towards the place where I was to meet, an old friend that lived his life to its end with nothing but a spirits worry to lend. He glided along the street where no one was out. Only I had the gift to see him about. His eyes with no life searching for me, I knew it was his turn to be. It was only us two that could share this body’s will. I slipped myself out and left the body still. The trees were the only witnesses in their watchful way, as the other slipped on its clothes for the day, leaving me with nothing but an eye, to see people passing lively by.
The task in life that the old witch left us, was kind enough to leave us this much, a shabby old man with his clothes dangling white, with elephant wrinkles that were a sight. His only tooth was brushed with care, that glistened with his greasy hair.
Our duty was to find the silver spoon. The only one that sings the noble tune. The tune that makes the bright sun to rise, with harmony that not one could despise. With the respected body getting old and weak we have finally reached a clue to speak. In overhearing a town person’s talk of the rose garden with gigantic stalks, lays a spoon of a silver shining, but he could not pick it up, not even slightly. There was power sensed as he grew near. He didn’t get too close because of his fear. He ran as far as he could to leave it’s presence, for not all spoons were with that sense.
The excitement my friend and I had pushed us to go onward and be glad. We could only run to this garden of sweet roses. In no time we reached it as it enlightened our noses. We had no problem grabbing the wondrous spoon, the hard part was getting to the witch soon. Will this old man help us finish our task? Or will he wither away, dare I ask?
The life long journey is coming to a close, for we had found the spoon next to a rose. My partner shall be the great one to head toward the light of the sun, where the witch lives at the highest peak, of the tallest mountain by the glittering creek.
My friend had the impossible to climb, and I could do nothing but be a guide. The excitement was driving me on, but for the old man he was almost gone. “Grab a shrub and pull some more, Only a few more feet to her door.” With the spirit’s will in his eye gave strength to the body to reach the sky. The night swooped in and came my turn, we switched places and I right then learned that climbing this mountain was harder than thought, but with the other urging me on, I couldn’t stop.
As I reached the door in weariness, the witch received me with happiness. The spoon she took with tumbling delight and set it with the singing fork and knife. The trio sang a breath taking song, and the body that I had belong, withered away with honors and gratitude. It had done its purpose just to us few. It left my friend and I ever so free, to continue our spirit life to every degree.
Wedding Announcement
Reba Shae Sullivan
to
Christopher Merritt Leonard
Son of Donald M. & Karen Leonard
On Friday, October 9, 2009
In the St. George LDS Temple
The reception will be held Friday, October 9th from 5:00-8:00pm at the Sullivan Residence.
353 S. Hwy 18
Central, UT 84722
Halloween Treasure Bottles
A treasure bottle is basically an empty water bottle that has been filled with trinkets, small toys and household objects and filled with bird seed. You make a list of everything that you put in the bottle and let the kids find each item by shaking the bottle and rolling it around to find the objects buried inside. You want to use a certain shape and size bottle, one that is smooth, cylindrical and not too wide.
What You'll Need:
Empty and dry water bottles with caps
About 40 small Halloween related items per bottle
10 pound bag of Parakeet Seed or other fine bird seed
Funnel that fits bottle mouth
Measuring Scoop
Craft Glue (to glue the lid on)
List of Items
Stretch ribbon or cord in orange or black
Halloween Pens or Pencils
Print a list of all the items inside the bottle. Use a hole punch to put a hole in the upper left hand corner. Run an orange or black stretch ribbon through the hole and tie around the neck of the bottle. You can include a Halloween themed pencil if you like.
http://www.halloween-online.com/crafts/halloween-crafts-treasure-bottles.html
Pumpkin Wordsearch
Gunlock Town Events for October
Oct 8: Gunlock Fire Department Meeting. 7pm at the fire station.
Oct 28: Community Pinewood Derby. 6pm at the Church building.
Oct 31: Halloween
Nov 1: Day Light Savings Ends
Sunday, September 13, 2009
The History of Labor Day
As the Industrial Revolution took hold of the nation, the average American in the late 1800s worked 12-hour days, seven days a week in order to make a basic living. Children were also working, as they provided cheap labor to employers and laws against child labor were not strongly enforced.
With the long hours and terrible working conditions, American unions became more prominent and voiced their demands for a better way of life. On Tuesday September 5, 1882, 10,000 workers marched from city hall to Union Square in New York City, holding the first-ever Labor Day parade. Participants took an upaid day-off to honor the workers of America, as well as vocalize issues they had with employers. As years passed, more states began to hold these parades, but Congress would not legalize the holiday until 12 years later.
On May 11, 1894, workers of the Pullman Palace Car Company in Chicago struck to protest wage cuts and the firing of union representatives. They sought support from their union led by Eugene V. Debs and on June 26 the American Railroad Union called a boycott of all Pullman railway cars. Within days, 50,000 rail workers complied and railroad traffic out of Chicago came to a halt. On July 4, President Grover Cleveland dispatched troops to Chicago. Much rioting and bloodshed ensued, but the government's actions broke the strike and the boycott soon collapsed. Debs and three other union officials were jailed for disobeying the injunction. The strike brought worker's rights to the public eye and Congress declared, in 1894, that the first Monday in September would be the holiday for workers, known as Labor Day.
The founder of Labor Day remains unclear, but some credit either Peter McGuire, co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, or Matthew Maguire, a secretary of the Central Labor Union, for proposing the holiday.
Although Labor Day is meant as a celebration of the labor movement and its achievements, it has come to be celebrated as the last, long summer weekend before Autumn.
Source: http://www.history.com/content/laborday/labor-history/labor-day-history
A New Year
Well the new year is upon us. You may be thinking, “It’s September, what is he talking about?” To those of you who believe as I do, you know that football season is primed to start.
A few years ago, I discovered a whole new way to enjoy the NFL season on a whole new level. At first I was reluctant, because a few of the people that I know that play fantasy football get way too into it. After joining a league with one of my friends though, I found out that Sunday becomes a day to get excited about. Most of those that play are just football fans that used to root for just one team, but now watch more than just their favorite team in hopes that their kicker will throw a touchdown pass on a fake field goal. (Thanks Vinatieri)
Fantasy football is where you draft players from different teams to “play” for you each week. For instance, on one of my teams (I only have two) I have a QB, 2 RBs, 2 WRs, a TE, K, and the defense/special teams from and entire NFL team. Generally you have a backup for each position for injuries and bye weeks. If you read this far, I hope you understand the acronyms.
I had one of my drafts already, and if I could give you just one tip, it would be to make sure your internet connection won’t kick you off in the middle of the draft. Another tip I have is to try to find a league with a lot of people you know so it’s more fun to taunt and ridicule the owners of the other teams in your league.
Now I can watch just about any NFL game and I have an interest in who does well. It has enhanced my passion for the game.
Linking History
I am extremely interested in the history of our town Gunlock, and was really excited to hear that Gunlock has a history website. Tracie Jessop Davies created the site “to promote the writing, collecting and sharing of Gunlock History for future generations.”
Davies sought me out at the Gunlock parade to have our websites link together, and there is already a link on The Gunlock Informer’s website, http://gunlockhistory.com.
Both of us are interested in stories or histories that people would like to contribute so contact the history website or the Informer and specify how you want your history shared.
Linking History
I am extremely interested in the history of our town Gunlock, and was really excited to hear that Gunlock has a history website. Tracie Jessop Davies created the site “to promote the writing, collecting and sharing of Gunlock History for future generations.”
Davies sought me out at the Gunlock parade to have our websites link together, and there is already a link on The Gunlock Informer’s website, http://gunlockhistory.com.
Both of us are interested in stories or histories that people would like to contribute so contact the history website or the Informer and specify how you want your history shared.
Tips for a Cheaper School Year
Once again, school has begun much to the dismay of many a child. The only thing more expensive than shopping for school clothes is shopping for school supplies. Do you find yourself with a teenager who wants something as unique as their personality? Of course, but that will cost extra, unless you employ some frugal genius…
Use those extra scrapbook supplies.
Scrapbook cardstock is a wonderful thing. It can be used for matting photos on a page, throwing together a cute gift, or, in this case, help your teenager express their individuality.
Tip #1: Making stylish flash cards.
Whether it be English vocabulary words or a foreign language course, flash cards are helpful studying tools for any age. A standard 12”x12” page will make thirty six 2”x2” flash cards. Use a trendy pattern and the rest is history. 2”x2” a little small for your needs? Make them the size you need.
Tip #2: Use scraps to decorate book covers.
Plain, economical (not to mention recycled) brown paper bag covers can be blinged out to your child’s delight with a few extra scrapbook embellishments or left over scraps. The bag cover is already sturdy and the more flair that is added to it, the stronger it gets. Let your child use their imaginations and creativity to express themselves on their paper bag canvas. One thing is for sure; no one else will have the exact same thing.
Find what can be reused.
Tip #1: Recycle those binders!
Lets face it, every year the average household throws away at least three to five
binders. Sure, some of those binders really are toast, but a few are salvageable. Minor rips and tears can be patched up with a little bit (or a lot) of duct tape, which is rather fashionable right now and it comes in all sizes and colors at your local hardware store.
Tip #2: Resuscitate last years backpack.
Scrap material, beads, ribbon, and thread can all be used to pump new life into a beat up backpack. You may have to man the sewing machine for the major problems, like reattaching that strap, but then let your children do the work. Get a couple of designs off the internet and let them try their hands at embroidery. Does your child like to paint? Supply them with a bottle of fabric paint or permanent markers.
Help them stay organized.
Tip #1: Tile corkboard is your friend.
Many home improvement stores sell inexpensive corkboard tiling. What better way to keep your child organized than to buy one tile for each child? They can decorate it with their names and such, then hang all of them in a well-trafficked area of the house. Post reminders, chores, notes, permission slips and other important papers there so they won’t get lost.
Tip #2: Check out online sources.
Websites like www.marthastewart.com has loads of ideas about your back to school needs. From little tissue holders to stylish, homemade portable art studios, this site can inspire your creative side. For interesting ways to jazz up your clothes and accessories, check out www.threadbanger.com. Most of the projects on this website are easy, chic, and inexpensive. Happy hunting!
September Town Events
Sep 7: Labor Day
Sep 10: Gunlock Fire Department Meeting. 7pm at the fire station.
Sep 13: National Grandparent Day
Sep 26: Cub Scout Day Camp. Meet at the Church at 7:15am to car pool. Will return around 2pm.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
The 2009 Gunlock Rodeo
The Gunlock Rodeo was a success again. The weekend was perfect with overcast skies for most of it, lowering the temperature a few degrees. There were no storms, fires or floods.
The steak and potato dinner Lin’s provided was exceptional.
Pictured above are children lined up for the Chicken Chase. Pictured below are the men who handled the cattle throughout the night.
Fundraising for the Fire House
The Gunlock Fire Department sold tee shirts as a fund raiser to raise money to build a new fire house at the Rodeo in July. At the NWSSD Fire Board meeting in June, it was discovered that the only grant big enough to cover the cost of a new fire station, is a Federal Grant which has to be monetarily met to a certain, but small, percentage.
In order to apply for other government grants, the fire station must have certain requirements which include things such as a bathroom and a hazardous material collection station that fire fighters that may come in contact with such materials can decontaminate in.
.
Lightning Fires
Lightning struck a hay stack at the Smith ranch. Fortunately it was discovered quickly by Ed Bowler and Jay Leavitt. They took care of it with some men who were there, by pulling down the hay bales that were on fire and spreading them out away from the stack. The Gunlock Fire Department was called and made sure the fire was completely out.
There were a couple other lightning strike fires in the Tobin Wash area that the fire department took care of until they handed it over to the BLM fire crews when they arrived.
Town Pond Fire
In the beginning of July, a small fire ignited next to the town pond due to fireworks. Four departments and a few representatives from the Department of Natural Resources were dispatched to the fire due to a glitch in the communication between the Washington County Dispatch and the Gunlock Fire Department. It has since been remedied.
Washington County Fire Warden, Shaun Jaca, was very explicit in his explanation to those in attendance that there are absolutely no fireworks in unincorporated areas, including small, seemingly harmless fireworks like flowers and sparklers. An example of an incorporated area would be those that have been voted cities, such as St. George, Ivins, Santa Clara, and Washington.
The fire department would like to remind citizens, now that fire season is upon us, to report any fires by first calling 911. If you, then, would like to call Kevin Laub, who is the fire captain, or any of the other three currently trained fire fighters, that is fine.
12th Grade Reading Test
MR DUCKS
MR KNOT
0SMR
CMEDBD WINGS
LIB
MR DUCKS
TEST NO. 2
MR SNAKES
MR KNOT
SAR
CM BDI’S
LIB
MR SNAKES
TEST NO. 3
MR FARMERS
MR KNOT
SAR
CMMT POCKETS
LIB
MR FARMERS
TEST NO. 4
MR MICE
MR KNOT
SAR
CMEDBD FEET
LIB
MR MICE
TEST NO..5
MR PUPPIES
MR KNOT
OSAR
CMPN
LIB
MR PUPPIES
The Annual Gunlock Parade
The fire trucks drove up and down the street to alert everyone for the flag ceremony held at the town hall. After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed an excellent breakfast prepared by the Brackens.
Then, those in the parade prepared and lined up while those who watched found shade to observe from. Joseph Smith was our announcer this year. There were many treats thrown by those in the parade ranging from candy, fifty cent pieces and popsicles.
It did seem like there were more people in the parade than watching it, but that is what makes this parade fun. There were more treats to go around.
Back to School Crossword
Across
2. Nobody wants this- especially on the first day!
3. You need this for writing.
5. Some kids ride this to school.
7. Time to eat!
10. Reading, writing, and this...
11. A record of your progress.
12. A ________ for the teacher.
13. You may paint or draw here.
Down
1. Don't get sent to this person's office!
4. You sit at your...
6. The teacher will write on this
8. A class where you do experiments.
9. Everybody's favorite 'subject'
Friday, July 3, 2009
Town Hall Meeting
As the Town Hall Chair, Debbie Bracken wanted to give a “heads up” on the building use. The Gunlock Rodeo is funding the Town Hall so it is paying for the power and maintenance. Donations are always welcome as well. Everyone in the community is encouraged to use the building but there is a cleaning deposit that is completely refundable. There is a fee schedule for nonlocals and commercial use.
*Non Local use fee $300.00 plus refundable cleaning deposit that is $200.00.
*Local weekly commercial use fee $10.00 plus refundable cleaning deposit of $40.00.
*Local Use has no fee and has a cleaning deposit fee of $200.00 that is refundable.
Those who live in Gunlock are considered local. There will be supplies and a check list for cleaning the building. Overnight events are not allowed.
GSSD for June
The Gunlock Special Service District is preparing for the election to be held in November and has some options. Gunlock will only need an election if there are enough candidates to vote for, if not then the candidates will just be appointed and there is no need for an election. Gunlock residents will then vote in Veyo for the Northwest Special Service District and Transportation District. If there is an election for the GSSD, Gunlock will use electronic voting and it will be held in the Town Hall. Gunlock residents can vote for the GSSD, Transportation District and the NWSSD candidates there.
Other items of business include, the well is having problems because the light keeps turning off and they think it is from a power surge. The well is also turning off before the tank is full so they will fix it these problems. The water passed all tests, leaks have been addressed for Florence Leavitt, Gentry’s and Smith’s properties.
A property in foreclosure has delinquent payments which will be put on record on the title of the property to ensure payment. The chlorination grant is in progress and they plan to have a public hearing for the grant information. There is a broken tree in the park right next to the Weed’s home. They plan to take it out since it is breaking into three pieces and threatening the house.
"The Star-Spangled Banner" Lyrics
Lyrics, by Francis Scott Key:
First Verse
Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn's early light,
What so proudly we hail'd at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro' the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watch'd, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air
Gave proof thro' the night that our flag was still there.
Oh, say, does that Star-Spangled Banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
Second Verse
On the shore dimly seen, thro' the mists of the deep,
Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes,
What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep,
As it fitfully blows half conceals, half discloses?
Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam,
In full glory reflected, now shines in the stream;
'Tis the Star-Spangled Banner, Oh long may it wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Third Verse
And where is that band who so vauntingly swore
That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion
A home and a country should leave us no more?
Their blood has wash'd out their foul footstep's pollution.
No refuge could save the hireling and slave
From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave,
And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Fourth Verse
Oh, thus be it ever when free men shall stand
Between their loved homes and the war's desolation!
Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the heav'n rescued land
Praise the Pow'r that hath made and preserved us a nation!
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto, "In God is our trust"
And the Star-Spangled Banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
Fire Department Fundraising
The Gunlock Fire Department met with some community members to figure out how to raise money for the grants the department could receive and to build a new fire station. One big idea was to do a Fireman’s Ball since that could raise a lot of money quickly. There were many concerns about the amount of money it would take up front to fund the Ball and also if it would be well received to make the desired profit.
Other means of fundraising were discussed, like having a yard sale or barbecue, but those will not provide enough profit, although they could fund a bigger event. The other option for matching the grants is to have the volunteer firefighters do service hours. The problem with this is there are not enough firefighters to accumulate the hours needed so the department hopes to increase it’s volunteers so the service hours can be greater. They invite everyone in town to volunteer on the fire department to help, no training is required.
The discussion turned to see how much the Northwest Special Service District can provide for Gunlock and there were no certain answers. The meeting ended with many unanswered questions and the plan to meet again in July with the NWSSD board members so Gunlock can make informed decisions that will suit the town best.
The fire department volunteers attended the NWSSD meeting the next day and talked with Steve Haluska and found some answers. Gunlock has no financial assistance from the district because Veyo has to pay off the loan for the building of their department. He said
Central built their department from fundraisers and Brookside from donations. Gunlock will have to do something similar to those two cities and hopefully get a grant to help out. Keep your eyes open for future Gunlock Fire Fundraisers.
Not many of the NWSSD board members can attend the July Gunlock Fire Department meeting as hoped, but there will be an opportunity to get more questions answered.
Patriotism
~Abraham Lincoln
There are those, I know, who will say that the liberation of humanity, the freedom of man and mind, is nothing but a dream. They are right. It is the American dream.
~Archibald MacLeish
Big Heart, Little Town
This town works hard. There are so many things the people in this town do for the community that it is amazing. The Rodeo helps take care of finances for town events and other financial needs. The people who make the Rodeo happen sacrifice their time and supplies to make it the great success that it is. The people who serve on the water board provide their services to give us a quality of life and a great park for our families to enjoy. The volunteer firefighters are working to provide fire safety the best they can with what they have. There are residents who care and do their part when opportunity arises.
It really is a great thing to see the community do what other communities won’t or don’t even have the opportunity to do. The sacrifice is great but the happiness it brings our town is priceless. This little town has a big heart and everyone makes it that way.
Gunlock Town Events July 2009
(Lins is donating a steak and potato dinner for Friday night but it is limited, so first come first serve. It starts at 7:30pm for $5.00 a plate. The regular menu will also be served that night as well.)
July 4: 4th of July
8:00am Flag Ceremony
8:30am Breakfast
10:00 Parade from church to church
July 9: Fire Meeting at the Fire Station at 7pm
July 24: Pioneer Day
Monday, June 1, 2009
Get Up and Go
Itinerary/directions: (St. George), I-15 north, Leeds/Silver Reef, I-15, (Cedar City), Iron Mission State Park, Hwy 56 west, Old Iron Town, Hwy 56, (Enterprise), Hwy 18 south, Mountain Meadow Monument, Hwy 18, Snow Canyon State Park-volcano hike, Hwy 18, (home). Mileage-about 133 miles.
Silver Reef, or Silver City, became a boom town in the 1870’s when silver was discovered there. This is the only location in the United States where silver has been found deposited in sandstone. This community was the most diverse of southern Utah’s early settlements, comprising mostly Protestant, Catholic, and Chinese families. The old Rice Bank served as a jail for a time, and is now a small gift shop. The Wells Fargo building houses a museum, and famed sculptor Jerry Anderson’s paintings and bronze work.
It is open Monday-Saturday, from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. A small stone building next to the Wells Fargo houses a model of the town, and a picture gallery. If you have a little extra time, go on up the canyon, heading west on the main road through Silver Reef. Take the right fork towards Oak
Grove. On the right, a short distance further, is a parking area. Take the short hike that leads to one of the old stone kilns, used to process the ore. Iron Mission State Park is located at 635 N. Main in Cedar City. Cost is $3 per person, or $6 per vehicle. It is open daily until 5:00 p.m. We enjoyed playing with the model railroad, and the displays of carriages, farm implements, guns, and mining equipment. It was fun ‘riding’ in the Wells Fargo carriage, and imagining what life must have been like in the old log cabin. As the park’s name implies, settlers came into the area to set up an iron mill, and manufacture many items needed throughout the region. We studied the process, from start to finish, and have a new respect for the effort it took to make everything from a nail to a printing press. There is a hands-on’ children’s corner with a lot of fun activities, and the kids can complete requirements to become Junior Curators. Plan on spending at least two hours here, and pick up a booklet on Old Iron Town. Heading west on Highway 56, you will see Desert Mound off to your right after about 20 minutes drive time. Watch for the sign to Old Iron Town on your left. This historic site is located about ten minutes from the highway. Tour the ruins of the iron works and a preserved beehive shaped charcoal oven. Hike the short informative nature trail to the ruins of a pioneer cabin. Hit the highway again towards Enterprise, where you will turn south, heading for St. George. The Mountain Meadow Monument is a good place to stop for a few minutes. Reflect on what can happen when there are rumors spread, when people fail to communicate, and don’t take the time to really learn about and understand each other. Wrap up the trip with a fun hike up the volcano just south of the Diamond Valley turnoff. What an amazing view there is from the top! Hint-instead of taking on the north face, it’s a bit easier hiking around to the east and up the south side. Wear your good shoes!
Fire Safety
May was quite an adventurous month for the Gunlock Volunteer Fire Department. Twice in the same week, a fire broke out near the campground just off of the Overhang Cliff turn near the Bowler’s field. It was determined that camp fires were the cause of the fires.
Both fires caught in the roots of several dead cottonwood trees causing the fire to travel underground through the interconnected root system.
The GVFD would like to remind everyone that is planning on camping this summer to take caution with your fires and don’t assume that the fire will go out on its own. Please put your fires out completely. Help prevent wildfires, protect our regional firefighters, and save your tax dollars.
On Tuesday, June 2 at 7pm after the Town Hall meeting, there will be a planning meeting for anyone that would like to help plan the Fireman’s Ball to raise money to build the new fire house.
Baby Announcement
Vern and Summer Brady had a baby girl on May 11, 2009. Aspen Dawn Brady weighed 8 pounds and was 21 inches long. The Brady’s are fixing up Vern’s grandmother’s home, Florence Leavitt, and hope to move in soon.
May GSSD Meeting
By Sara Laub
The board found out that there was not a hook up valve at the home of Florence Leavitt. Sunrise, the company who installed the water system, said it was no longer on warranty, and would not help install the meter they were responsible for and claimed they were not liable.
Jennings Fletcher asked the board if he could fix the tables, put in park benches and two barbeque units at the park for his Eagle Scout Project. The board approved the request.
My Dad
When I was just a tiny kid,
Do you remember when,
The time you kissed my bruises,
Or cleaned by soiled chin?
You scrambled for the balls I hit,
(Short-winded more than not,)
Yet, every time we'd play a game,
You praised the "outs" I caught.
It seems like only yesterday,
You wiped away my tears,
And late at night I called your name,
To chase away my fears.
Though time has changed your handsome grip,
Your hair is snowy white,
You gait's a little slower now,
Thick glasses help your sight.
Oh, do I thirst for years gone by,
To be that growing lad,
Re-living all of the memories,
Of growing with my dad.
(by: Anonymous)
Gunlock Garden
By Rachel Campbell
Cody Orton in conjunction with Jay Leavitt and Steve Atwood (Kayenta) has started a community garden. Besides providing space and water for residents to raise a garden, it is also helping Cody apply for the prestigious Sterling Scholar Award in Agriculture. If you would like to help, please contact Cody or Steve for more information.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
April GSSD Meeting
Another month gone by and there is progress on the front of the chlorination system. It has been determined that a small, cinderblock building will be built on the Smith’s ranch to house the unit. Also, an underground apparatus will be put in near the tanks. With this new system, the water board is hopeful that we will finally meet state standards in this field. The cost for the system was placed at roughly $22,000. The water board will be submitting a grant application with the state to cover the cost.
The park was on the agenda again. With the recently installed playground equipment, the park has a whole new look. Professional playground equipment installers were called in for insurance purposes. Hopes are, with the two pieces, that the younger, smaller children can use the smaller equipment with less of a chance of the bigger children running them over.
Fire Grant
In the beginning of April, the Gunlock Fire Department submitted a grant to UFRA requesting funds to buy the necessary protection gear and fire suppression equipment that is up to date with current industry requirements. The grant totaled $35,000, 10-50% of which would have to be matched in the course of the year. The moneys can be matched by fundraising or in-kind service hours. Formerly, anyone who kept track of clearing debris could count their hours as in-kind service hours, but the rules have changed. Only those people officially a member of the fire department can submit those hours.
Knowing that the community would love to be involved and help, the Gunlock Fire Department is having a town meeting on Thursday, May 14th at 7:00 pm (did I mention there will be refreshments?). At the meeting, the citizens of Gunlock will learn what they can do with just an hour or two of their time to help the GFD get the required hours. See you there!
Crazy vs Normal
According to Webster’s Illustrated Dictionary, crazy and normal are defined as:
Crazy: insane; unsound; rickety; wildly eager or desirous.
Normal: regular; natural; customary; according to standard or rule. Having average intelligence and physical condition.
There seems to be an illusion that takes place when we are with other people and observing ourselves. There is this expectation for people to behave with a certain standard, mostly defined as normal, which seems fairly irrational if looked into closer.
Why do we expect people and ourselves to be normal? Normal is just average and not many people are average at all the things in life. Most people have talents exceeding normalcy and other traits would be considered below average, and the rest are left to varying degrees in between.
Why do we assume people are normal? If we expected people to be crazy then we would never be disappointed. It would be easier to tolerate the behaviors of others if we knew we would get something unsound or rickety.
But then, how boring would it be if we were all normal? I’m not sure that we would be happier as average and expecting normalcy. Pursuing wildly eager or desirous things in life gives us personality and so the questions turns to: Is being crazy bad? It certainly has made the claim but perhaps our definition of ideas and words is not always what we have been accustomed to.
If normal is being average then who developed this standard or rule of how people should behave? I’m not sure anyone can answer this but I am certain this was not a normal person. This leads to the conclusion that normal is a fictitious thing that just doesn’t exist. Nobody is normal. Why do people bind and restrict themselves to the illusion of what people portray as normal? If there is no harm and no rights are being infringed on, then feel the freedom of being an individual. Allow yourself to live, chase dreams, pursue goals. However, I strongly believe values should not be lost in the process. Of course we need to allow others the same benefit of defying the standard of normal too.
Now I ask: What is crazy, normal, and the reality of who people are? And are you being yourself or are you trying to be normal?
Emotional Wreckage
On April 24th, the old Gunlock School house was demolished. Many residents were very emotional about the loss as quite a few had gone to school there. Earlier in the month, a crew was brought in to remove the asbestos from the building so deconstruction crews could safely tear down the historical site.
In keeping with the donation contract, the some of the space provided will be used for an updated fire station equipped with the necessary assets to protect the community from the ever present fire danger. Even though the land will be used for a good cause, every time a Gunlock resident walks or drives by, they will remember the quaint little building that started so many of their educations.
Mother's Day Gifts You May or May Not Want to Give
I know you have all been hoping for my insights on this topic, so I have given some thought and have come up with some real helps this year as you purchase gifts for your mother.
Ammunition: great if mom’s a redneck, not so great if she’s a serial killer.
Power Tools: great if mom’s handy/crafty, not so great if she wants you to use them for her big home improvement project she’s been planning.
Kitchen Knives: great if your mom loves the culinary arts but not so great if she has a habit of throwing things when mad.
New Watch: great if mom’s old one broke but not so great if she’s habitually late (she might misunderstand).
New Dress: great if mom likes clothing but not so great if you bought it 3 sizes too big.
It is always wise to consult with a friend or family member before giving a gift. Then you will know the sensitivity level you have to abide by. Good luck.
May Spring Cleanup
Nadine Heaton, Scott Holt, and Tyler Truman have put together an opportunity to dispose of debris on our properties on May 2, 2009 starting at 9:00am.
They have organized dumpsters and ask for cleanup crews with “muscle power” to help. All debris desired to be picked up needs to be placed on the curb. Please contact one of the three listed above for any questions.
May Gunlock Town Events
May 7: GSSD Meeting at the Town Hall at 7pm
May 10: Mother’s Day
May 14: Community Fire Meeting at the Town Hall at 7pm (don’t forget about the refreshments!!!)
May 22: Last Day of School
May 25: Memorial Day
Monday, April 6, 2009
A New Board Member Welcomed
The GSSD welcomed Dusty Leavitt to the board as he filled the vacancy Todd Taylor left. Leavitt will be the new person to call for problems or information about the water system.
In February Nadine Heaton and Roxanne Aplanap attended the RWAU conference and had received helpful information. Presenters reminded them that “paper stops attack” in reference to make sure that everything the board does is documented. Other items they noted were the government rules are really bi-laws and to use professionals to avoid legal issues, among other items. One of these applied to the park playground equipment assembly discussion, since using a professional would allow the GSSD to avoid legal issues if the playground equipment had problems in the future. Scott Holt said he could get cement donated and there was discussion to perhaps add swings to the equipment as well.
The board decided to meet in Veyo to look at the chlorination tablet system they use to get a better understanding about how it works and to see if it is something they would use for Gunlock’s system. It is appealing since it requires less work.
Aplanap was sent to gather information about printers and spent some time informing everyone of the options available. With some help from Rachel Campbell (she works for an office supply store), they could assess which printer would be the best for the board economically.
Holt also stated, as the meter committee, that a system will have to be put in place to read the meters because of the grants received for the water system.
The board did put into effect voting on items after public comment.
Fire Department at Work
Easter Eggs at Random
Once again I have decided to fill some space to enlighten you on all the many random ways I can think of to hide Easter eggs.
1. A birds nest: it is quite an obvious pick but man that bird will be thinking “What a strange looking egg.”
2. Next to the key under the welcome mat. Just hope you don’t expect company.
3. In the tail pipe. You don’t even have to dye that egg because the exhaust will do it for you. Cooking isn’t necessary either.
4. Mail box because it fits.
5. Locate where the dog buries the bone and make space for the eggs too. The dog will get a double treat!
6. Float them down the river and the kids will take hours to find them.
7. Up the rain gutter. You’ll find Easter eggs every time it rains, allowing the holiday to linger longer.
8. Put them in Mason Jars and bury them throughout the garden. Then you can use a metal detector to find them. This can also double for tilling the garden.
9. Because of the recent Scout Campout catapult competition, we can now use the one they built to launch Easter eggs throughout the town. The excitement of the season can take flight.
10. Are you ready? Hide them back in the chicken coop. This will throw everyone off, especially the chickens.
Comfort in History
I’ve been reading a lot of history involving politics, previous wars and the diverse perspectives involved. It has seemed to relate to the present since there is sensitivity about the troops in Iraq and how the politicians should manage the “economic crisis”.
Through my reading I have gained knowledge but not necessarily answers. The knowledge has led me to an increased perspective, tolerance, frustration, and also comfort.
So much is out of our hands as citizens and we put our trust in our elected leaders in times of crisis and despair. In history there are accounts of many perspectives and all can be analyzed in a small amount of time by merely reading. As we are living through the current issues at hand it is difficult to know why different choices are made and I have come to respect, that in time, the things that I don’t understand will be available to research in the future. Although this has given me tolerance, I continue in my frustration that I would like to have that information available to me now.
In my research of the previous wars the United States has been involved in, people are always on opposite sides of support, in favor or not in-favor. It has given me comfort to learn from history and it has been difficult to find what specifically gives me the comfort. In learning more about the past, I have gained a sense of wonder at the present and I feel courage and hope that I did not have before. A sense of relief and calm has overtaken and I am secure in my status as an American citizen. The United States of America is truly an amazing place to live and I feel the pride that goes with being a part of a great country, the freedoms we embrace and the life we are allowed to live.
Family Spotlight: Delroy and Afton Anderson
Delroy and Afton Anderson
By Rachel Campbell
The Anderson’s story begins at Brigham Young University where Delroy, a Wyoming native, was playing football on a scholarship. Both were studying to enter the education field. They were married and returned to Wyoming for the summer. When they returned to northern Utah for the next semester, it was decided that Delroy would rather attend the University of Utah, leaving his comfortable football scholarship at BYU for the uncertainty of a walk on scholarship at the U. Fortunately, being a talented athlete, he made the team, secured the scholarship, and the Anderson’s transferred to their rival school.
Afton and Delroy started their professional careers in Gerlach, Nevada; Afton, a teacher of English, Delroy of Math/Science. Along with his teaching duties, Delroy also took on the job of coaching the sports teams. All the sports teams. After Gerlach, was Magna, Utah, then on to Richfield and finally to Spanish Fork where they taught until they retired. Spanish Fork is still one of their favorite places to visit.
Their first encounter with Gunlock was when Delroy had an interview for a coaching job in Mesquite. Afton stayed in the car with their four young children during the several hour interview. “It was so hot, even though it was spring.” Because the freeway had not been constructed through the gorge, they were coming back on Highway 93, when Delroy decided to take the turn at Gunlock to explore.
Soon, the canyon began to get interesting and Afton began to take notice of its beauty. As they drove through town, Afton remembers saying, “Oh, I’d like to live here!”
The Andersons have 5 children, 12 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren spanning the country from Alabama to Idaho. While they are proud of their progeny, they are saddened by the distance; they don’t get the pleasure of seeing their family as much as they would like.
So how did the Anderson’s end up in Gunlock? One of their sons, who was a teacher at Enterprise High School at the time, worked with another teacher who had family in Gunlock that was selling their home. On one of their vacations to visit this son, he convinced them to go and see the house his co-worker’s family was selling. As they were finding a wide place in the road to turn around, they happened to pass the home they reside in now. To their delight, there was a small “For Sale” sign outside. They tried to see the house that night, but the owners were not ready for someone to look at it, but they did oblige them in letting them look at the property. With an appointment set for the next day, they headed back to Enterprise. The next day, they came back and were shown the house. Needless to say, they fell in love with the house.
Even though their house was one of the handful that had extensive damage done to it in the flood of 2007, they love their place. In fact, they have nearly finished with all their flood adjustments and repairs. Even with all the water and the fires, the Andersons truly love living in Gunlock.
Gunlock Town Events for April 2009
Apr 11: Town Easter Egg Hunt
Apr 12: Easter
Monday, March 2, 2009
February GSSD Meeting
The GSSD has been very busy in accomplishing all the many tasks for which they are responsible. There is now a water pressure tester that has been purchased, and the valve was replaced on Hyrum Smith’s ranch to stop leaking water. Odean Bowler found out that it will be better to try to get the grant for June instead of January for the chlorination system and fencing.
The septic tank is still being considered for repairs and options, and the directors voted to have insurance on a three year contract to help save money in case insurance rates go up. There are legislative bills that could impact the GSSD and Roxanne Aplanap reviewed many of them she had received information on, and said she will keep track of them as they progress.
Discussion on public comment and how it could be improved was addressed. Hyrum Smith recommended to toughen up on public comment to make sure it was at the right time of the meeting, to keep the meetings more orderly. It was also mentioned to have the board wait until after the public comment before they voted on agenda items. This will make the public comment more valuable and the purpose of attending the meeting more valuable as well.
There are three openings for director positions this election year, which means the three directors ending their terms will be Nadine Heaton, Odean Bowler, and Scott Holt.
Todd Taylor has resigned and there is a director opening right now.
Fire Department Awareness
As captain of the Gunlock Volunteer Fire Department and after being directed by the NWSSD, I need to address some concerns and relay some information that is valuable to the community. The fire department is continuing the process of getting organized to meet new legal guidelines and I have currently received paperwork and direction from the NWSSD and the state to meet those obligations.
Please be aware that everyone in Gunlock is invited to serve as a volunteer on the fire department. Each person who wishes to serve on the department needs to have the appropriate paperwork filled out for insurance and liability purposes. I am aware that many people have helped during fires in the community in the past, and I want all those who want to continue to be involved to please fill out the appropriate paperwork. Also be aware that the fire trucks can only be driven by those who have filled out this paperwork and have become official volunteers. There are serious safety and legal concerns if the guidelines are not met.
If you need anything regarding the Gunlock Fire Department, including burn permits, use of fire equipment or if you have any questions, please call me at 680-4216.
Recipe: Ice Cream Cone Cakes
Ingredients:
1 package (18 1/4 ounces) devils food cake mix plus ingredients to prepare mix
1/3 cup sour cream
1 package (2 5/8 ounces) flat-bottomed ice cream cones (about 18 cones)
1 1/4 cups nonfat frozen yogurt (any flavor)
Cake decorations or chocolate sprinkles
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease and flour 8– or 9-inch round cake pan; set aside.
Prepare cake mix according to package directions, substituting sour cream for 1/3 cup of the water and decreasing oil to 1/4 cup.
Spoon 1/2 of the batter (about 2 1/3 cups) evenly into ice cream cones, using about 2 tablespoons batter for each. Pour remaining batter into prepared cake pan.
Stand cones on cookie sheet. Bake cones and cake layer until toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean, about 20 minutes for cones and about 35 minutes for cake layer. Cool on wire racks, removing cake from pan after 10 minutes. Reserve or freeze cake layer for another use.
Top each filled cone with 1/4 cup scoop of frozen yogurt just before serving. Sprinkle with decorations as desired. Serve immediately.
Makes 8 servings.
(These ice cream cone cakes are versatile desserts that can adapt well to any holiday or occasion.)
Side note: green ice cream could be used to celebrate St. Patrick’s day this month.
The Laub Family
Since it is the first anniversary of the beginning of the Gunlock newsletter, I figured it would be a good time to spotlight my family.
Kevin and Sara actually moved here three years ago in the month of March. We have three kids, Samantha (7), Derrick (5) and KayDee (2) who keep Sara’s hands full as a stay-at-home mom. Kevin currently works as a small motor mechanic and he is constantly found in our garage working on the big truck motors as well. Our family loves to be outside camping, hiking, cycling, off-roading, among other outdoor activities.
We moved to Gunlock because Kevin passed by the house we live in on his way home from an off-road trip and thought it would be great to live here. He showed Sara the house and here we are.
The Laub family has been in the history of Gunlock, which we are interested in finding out more of the details. We are also related to the Bowlers here as well.
We feel very blessed to be here and are happy to be part of Gunlock.
Beware of Thief
Peterson had gone out of town with his wife and when he returned, his truck was not complete. The whole right tail light assembly was missing and the truck was parked inside his chain link fence. He wanted to make the community aware that there is a thief around town.
Book Review: The Thirteenth Tale
By Rachel Campbell
Diane Setterfield’s novel, The Thirteenth Tale, is intensely compelling and completely original.
When book lover and biographer, Margaret Lea gets a mysterious letter from famed British author Vida Winter inviting her to write her biography, Margaret is skeptical. After all, The Herald has sent more than twenty different reporters to get the “real story” and every time the story has been different. But she is compelled to accept with the assurance that Vida Winter is haunted by the admonishment given by the most recent reporter sent from The Herald: “Tell the truth!”
Several days later, Margaret finds herself sequestered in the Yorkshire sanctuary Miss Winter has made for herself. Soon, feeble, ailing, dying Miss Winter has entrapped Margaret in the story of Adeline and Emmeline. It is a story about twins… it is a ghost story…
“All children mythologize their birth. It is a universal trait. You want to know someone? Heart, mind and soul? Ask him to tell you about when he was born. What you get won’t be the truth; it will be a story. And nothing is more telling than a story.”
_Vida Winter
With a story line that will keep you guessing until the very end, this book definitely is worth the read.
Dr. Seuss Quotes
I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living, It's a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope. Which is what I do, And that enables you to laugh at life's realities.
You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who'll decide where to go.
Gunlock Town Events for March 2009
Mar 5: GSSD Meeting @ Town Hall 7pm. Mar 12: Gunlock Fire Meeting, Fire Station 7pm
Mar 16-23: School Spring Break
Mar 17: St. Patrick’s Day
Friday, February 6, 2009
New Play Set for GSSD
The board found a great deal for a used commercial playground set for only $2500, saving thousands. This new set will last a lot longer than the one that is currently there. It is sitting at the park in pieces right now, but will be put together in the future in the place of the current playground set.
The other items covered in the GSSD meeting were, the board reappointed their positions on the board as it is required at the beginning of each year. The chlorination system looks like it will be under budget and steps are being taken to receive the county grant.
Radio Safety for NWSSD
The Northwest Special Service District (NWSSD) wants to invite everyone to come to their meeting on February 4, 2009 to help discuss the radio problems. The NWSSD used a $22,000 grant and $33,000 from their budget to put a new repeater tower in behind the Brookside Fire Station to help the repeater located on Flat Top serve the fire departments' needs. The repeater on Flat Top has been turned down to provide other Washington County services, but the signal is not strong enough to serve the district.
Steve Haluska is the Chairman of the NWSSD and his main concerns for the district are: there is no communication during fires, firefighters are not getting pages, and the fire fighters have to use their own cell phones. This is a great concern for the public safety and also the firefighters' safety who serve in our district. Gunlock has the worst radio communication in the district and cannot receive pages. The district was told they would be assigned another frequency from the Flat Top tower but it has not happened yet. Now, the NWSSD is asking for your support to get this radio problem fixed so they can serve the district as it should be served. Please call Steve Haluska at 632-3214 for questions or concerns.
Unincorporated
There are a couple of issues going on in our unincorporated area in Washington County. We have problems with our fire department radio towers and the county wants to create a transportation district. It seems like we have a lot of SSDs to deal with right now.
Since we live in the Special Service District we should keep track of it. Communication for the fire departments is a big deal, especially since we pay our yearly tax for their protection and service. The radio should work properly.
Do we need a transportation district? There is a form to fill out if people would like to protest the Washington County Transportation District. This should be turned in by February 4th to protest within 15 days of the January 20th meeting, as stated in the letter that was sent out to the public. There was talk that another meeting could address this issue again this month, so be alert to express your “yea” or “nay.”
In my opinion, I think we should be involved in the affairs that effect us. These two issues directly involve us and unlike other political issues, we do have a direct say. Whether we are for or against the issues at hand, we should make our voices heard in the unincorporated area of Washington County.
Gender Fun
1) Freezer Bags -- They are Male, because they hold everything in, but you can see right through them.
2) Copiers -- They are Female, because once turned off, it takes a while to warm them up again. It's an effective reproductive device if the right buttons are pushed, but can wreak havoc if the wrong buttons are pushed.
3) Tire -- Male, because it goes bald and it's often over-inflated.
4) Hot Air Balloon -- Male, because, to get it to go anywhere, you have to light a fire under it, and of course, there's the hot air part.
5) Sponges -- female because they're soft, squeezable and retain water.
6) Web Page -- Female, because it's always getting hit on.
7) Subway -- Male, because it uses the same old lines to pick people up.
8) Hourglass -- Female, because over time, the weight shifts to the bottom.
9) Hammer -- Male, because it hasn't changed much over the last 5,000 years, but it's handy to have around.
10) Remote Control -- Female...... Ha! You thought it'd be male. But consider this -- it gives a man pleasure, he'd be lost without it, and while he doesn't always know the right buttons to push, he keeps trying.
www.lovelaughs.com
Valentine Humor
· The honeymoon is over when the husband calls home to say he'll be late for dinner and the answering machine says it is in the microwave.
· Before marriage, a man yearns for the woman he loves. After marriage, the "y" becomes silent.
· An English professor wrote the words, "woman without her man is nothing" on the blackboard and directed the students to punctuate it correctly.
The men wrote: "Woman, without her man, is nothing."
The women wrote: "Woman! Without her, man is nothing."
www.lovelaughs.com
Martin Luther King Jr. Continued
Dr. King was asked constantly to speak. So in order to spend more time with his family he wrote his first book, Stride Toward Freedom which was a success. While signing copies of his book in Harlem, NY an African-American woman stepped forward and plunged a letter opener into Dr. King's chest. Dr. King recovered from his wound and the woman was eventually declared insane. In February 1959 Dr. and Mrs. King went to India, the homeland of Mahatma Ghandi. In India Dr. King studied Satyagraha, Gandhi's principle of nonviolent persuasion. Dr. King was determined to use Satyagraha as his main instrument of social protest. After his return to America, Dr. King returned home to Atlanta, Ga. where he shared the ministerial duties of the Ebenezer Baptist Church with his father. The move also brought Dr. King closer to the center of the growing civil rights movement.
In January 1963 Dr. King announced he and the Freedom Fighters would go to Birmingham to fight the segregation laws. An injunction was issued forbidding any demonstrations and Dr. King and the others were arrested. Upon his release there were more peaceful demonstrations. The police retaliated with water hoses, tear gas and dogs. All this happened in the presence of television news cameras. It would be the first time the world would see the brutality that the southern African-Americans endured. The news coverage would help bring about changes as many Americans were disgusted and ashamed by the cruelty and hatred.
Continuing the fight for civil rights and to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, on August 28, 1963 200,000 people gathered in the front to the Lincoln Memorial. It was a peaceful protest, made up of African-Americans and whites, young and old. Most had come to hear Dr. King deliver his famous "I have a dream" speech. 1964 would be a good year for Dr. King and the civil rights movement. Dr. King was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize as someone who "had contributed the most to the furtherance of peace among men." Dr. King would divide the prize money, $54,000, among various civil rights organizations. President Lyndon Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act into law. It guaranteed that "No person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination."
In the winter of 1965 Dr. King lead a march from Selma, Alabama to the state capital in Montgomery to demand voting reforms. 600 marchers would begin the march but after 6 blocks the marchers were met by a wall of state troupers. When the troopers with clubs, whips and tear gas advanced on the marchers it was described "as a battle zone." The marchers were driven back while on the sidewalks whites cheered. 2 ministers, 1 white and 1 African-American, were killed and over 70 were injured with 17 hospitalized. It was the most violent confrontation Dr. King had experienced.
A court order overturning the injunction against the march was issued and the marchers were allowed to proceed. When they arrived in Montgomery the marchers were greeted by 25,000 supporters singing “We shall Overcome.” On August 6, 1965 a voting rights bill was passed allowing African-Americans to vote Dr. King believed that poverty caused much of the unrest in America. Not only poverty for African-Americans, but poor whites, Hispanics and Asians. Dr. King believed that the United States involvement in Vietnam was also a factor and that the war poisoned the atmosphere of the whole country and made the solution of local problems of human relations unrealistic This caused friction between King and the African-American leaders who felt that their problems deserved priority and that the African-American leadership should concentrate on fighting racial injustice at home. But by early 1967 Dr. King had become associated with the antiwar movement Dr. King continued his campaign for world peace. He traveled across America to support and speak out about civil rights and the rights of the under-privileged In April 1968 Dr. King went to Memphis, Tennessee to help the sanitation workers who were on strike. On April 3rd Dr. King would give what would be his last speech:
"We've got some difficult days ahead. But it doesn't matter with me now. Because I have been to the mountaintop. And I don't mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I'm not concerned about that now. I just want to do God's will. And He's allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I've looked over. And I've seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people will get to the promised land. And I'm not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord."
The following day, April 4 1968, as he was leaving his motel room Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was shot and killed.
(http://www.holidays.net/mlk/)