Welcome to the Rockford, Washington Horizons Community Blog

Fall Flower Power Campaign

2011-09-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

The RCC is selling bulbs for Spring 2012, can you believe it, it's just around the corner. There are catalogs and order forms available in the community center or you can ask any of the members for information. If you are comfortable ordering on the computer, you can log on to flowerpowerfundraising.com click on the PRODUCTS tab and take a look. When you place your order you can search for the Rockford Community Center as the charity you are sponsoring and it will automatically track to our account. It's super easy, you can pay with a credit card and the shipment gets delivered right to your door step and they guarantee their product. They also have a bonus, order 4 items and you will get some free miniature daffodil bulbs as well.
Speaking from personal experience, I ordered deer resistant plants and summer bulbs during the spring campaign and they were nice and healthy and the deer didn't even eat them so that was a double bonus for me. Call if you have questions (509)291-3605.

Come Visit the Rockford Community Center

2011-08-31T20:29:00.000-07:00

The Rockford Community Center is open. We are located at 229 South First, just behind the Methodist Church. Current hours of operation are Mondays and Wednesdays, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and evenings from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The center is currently staffed by volunteers. If you would like to become a volunteer and help staff the center give us a call at 291-3605. The more volunteer staff we have the more hours the center can be made available to our community and of course, kids are always welcome.
If you are looking for a place to hold a meeting or teach a class, give us a call. If you have other questions please call me at 220-6779.

Rockford Roast is in the House!

2011-08-31T14:42:00.000-07:00

New batch of fresh roasted coffee is available at the community center. Packaged in 1 pound bags, premium blend of Sumantran, Ethiopian, and Guatamalan coffees and locally roasted by our friends at Roast House Coffee. Come and try it out.

Hot Rockford Nights

2011-08-06T17:11:00.000-07:00

WOW! Another successful car show for the Rockford Lyon's Club. I don't know how many cars were there today but talk about some shine and sparkle, those cars were awesome! They had great music, great cars, wonderful people and the weather could not of been any better for this event. The nice summer breeze kept everyone cool and comfortable. We had several vendors set up for the market and there were some of the nicest visitors strolling through the Rockford City Park. I had the opportunity to sit and visit with David K from Tekoa, age 71, still farming and playing with his truck. What a nice man, bet he has many stories to share.

Remember we will have the market each Saturday through 9/10/11. If you haven't had a chance to check it out or would like to set up your own table remember it's only $10.00 for the set up fee and those proceeds go to the Rockford Community Center, helping to keep it's doors open and provide a safe and fun place for all to visit and spend time. Set up time is between 8 and 9 in the park and the market hours run from 9-3.

Lorrie Pope
Rockford Community Center Chair
(509)220-6779

Flower Power Fundraiser Success

2011-05-23T21:10:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who helped with our first Flower Power fundraiser! The Rockford Community Center was able to make a profit of $575.00 which is fantastic for our first time trying this event. Again, thanks to those who purchased the project and helped spread the word on our event.
We will have another Flower Power fund raiser that will feature bulbs for fall planting. You can view the upcoming products at flowerpowerfundraising.com as the fall campaign will be starting soon. From that website you can search for the Rockford Community Center and then order products with your credit card. The products will get shipped directly to your home.
Remember the Rockford Community Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization and we are dependent upon donations and fund raising events. If you would like to donate and have questions please feel free to contact any of our board members. My number is 220-6779.

Spring Fundraiser 2011

2011-04-29T19:21:00.000-07:00

Well folks we have wrapped up our first spring fundraiser selling plants and bulbs through "Flower Power". The power of flowers was with us as we came up with a net profit of $575.00. Not bad for our first time. This may be available to us come fall for the spring flowering bulbs and as we expand with this campaign we are hoping to have prizes to give to our top sellers.

Do you know of any fundraising ideas? If anyone has any ideas or information on this, grants, etc; that could benefit the community center please contact me or one of the RCC board members. Remember we are a 501c3 non-profit and any donations are tax deductible.

Thanks again to all of you who supported the "Flower Power" campaign.

Flower Power Fundraiser

2011-04-16T20:25:00.000-07:00

Our fundraiser is in full swing. It's not too late to get an order on it's way to you. If you would like to place an online order simply go to the link and you can order using your debit or credit card. It is fast, easy and secure. Your order will be on your way before you know it. For those local Rockfordites, get ahold of Vivian, Cat or Mary-Lou and they can get the order from you and get it taken care of. Remember our campaign goes through April 29th. Here is the direct link to the RCC's webpage on the flower power site.

http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/193668/LP0GQsaGhKBC

Flower Power Fund Raiser

2011-03-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

Thinking about getting some flowers for your yard and garden? The Rockford Community Center has launched it's spring fund raising campaign with "Flower Power". We have order forms available or you can go on-line and place your order with a credit card. The RCC receives 50% profit of the total sales and the website will show you how we are progressing on goal. You can even send the link to your friends and family through "Flower Power" or post the link on your facebook page to help out the RCC. The product is mailed directly to you and if you order 4 items you will get some free gladiolas. Postage is $5 no matter what size your order is.
This campaign runs through April 29th and the earliest orders will be shipped on April 4th.
Check out our fund raising link at
http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/193668/LP0GQsaGhKBC
or contact any of the following to pay by cash or check.
Lorrie Pope 291-4740
Vivian Plank 291-3722
Mary-Lou Benson 291-3146
Remember that the RCC is a non-profit, which means donations are tax deductible. Contact any of us for additional information.

YES! You can also check us out on facebook or e-mail us at www.rockfordcommunitycenter@gmail.com

Fresh Roasted Coffee

2011-03-25T20:39:00.000-07:00

The community center has just gotten in a fresh batch of Rockford Roast Coffee. If you haven't tried it yet then now is the time. It is a blend of Ethiopian, Guatemalan and Sumatran beans, blended and roasted by our Roast House friends in Spokane. Until the new center is open (in weeks) get a hold of Mary-Lou at 291-3146 for your 1 lb bag. Price is $10.00 per pound.

Reminder: Rockford Community Center is a 501c 3 Organization

2011-03-08T13:01:00.000-08:00

The Rockford Community Center (RCC) has been a 501c 3 non-profit organization for over a year. This means that donations to this organization are tax-exempt. There are many community projects that RCC is trying to get funding which will be a benefit to all of us. This includes programs for the youth such as tutoring, leadership, drama and art. Programs also include card parties, meals, computer classes and social events for seniors.
Please consider donating to the RCC and help our community thrive with activities and become a great social place!
Contact (509) 291-4740 for more information

Free Tax Help!

2011-02-09T12:33:00.000-08:00

There are several sites through out Spokane County that offer free tax preparation February 1st to April 15th.
They include:

Spokane Valley Library located at 12004 E Main Ave.
Monday 4-7pm, Friday 1-4pm, Saturday 10-1

Numerica Credit Union located at 301 N Havana Rd
Thuesday-Thursday 10am-2pm

Spokane Moran Prairie Library located at 6004 S Regal St
Tuesday 2-6pm, Saturday 11am-4pm

Bring the following:
2009 tax return,
Valid picture ID,
All income statements, such as 2010 W-2s, 1098, 1099 forms for you and your spouse,
Social Security cards for you, spouse and all household members,
Proof of other income from you or spouse and banking information,
Child care provider information,
Property tax information if homeowner,
2010 Home Purchase Credit information

Rockford Community Center Update

2011-01-17T17:46:00.000-08:00

The RCC held it 1st Community Center Update meeting on Tuesday, January 11th at the Harvest Moon. The staff at the Moon served up a hearty beef barley soup that really hit the spot on a cold winter night. Updates were given on the current status of the Community Center and upcoming plans. All of the many citizens of the community were thanked for their contributions of help and donations to the center. Feedback was given for events and classes that folks would like to see at the Community Center. The next meeting will be held on Monday, February 7th. Business meeting will start at 6:00 pm and general meeting will start at 6:30 pm. Place to be announced but most likely at the Moon. See you there.

Free GED preparatory classes

2011-01-14T13:00:00.000-08:00

The Rosalia Association for Community Enrichment (RACE) is offering free prep classes for those who will be taking the GED test. The classes are tailored for those attending. After the prep classes, RACE will assist you in signing up to take the GED test.
It will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at the Rosalia City Library located at 402 S Whitman Ave starting at 2:00pm.
For more information contact Nan at (509) 523-3112.

Free Advertising In the Exchange Newspaper

2011-01-03T12:28:00.000-08:00

For a limited time, the Exchange newspaper is offering free classified ads for anything you are giving away for free. If declutering and cleaning out your garage are on the top of your New Year's list, now is the tiime to get rid of your items.
The Exchange contact information is:
ph 509-922-3456
fax 509-455-7940
toll free 1-800-326-2223
www.wxchangepublishing.com

Wake Up and Smell the Coffee

2010-12-28T15:40:00.000-08:00

The Community Center just received a fresh order of our premium blend coffee. It is available in 1 lb packages for $10.00 per pound or one pot size samples for $2.00.
The coffee was roasted, ground and packaged exclusively for the RCC from Roasthouse, a local micro roaster located in Spokane. Our "Rockford Roast" is a premium blend of Ethiopian, Guatamalan & Sumatran beans. If you need a special grind, such as for a french press or espresso machine or if you are wanting whole bean, we can get this for you. If you have any questions about our coffee or need a special order please contact Lorrie at 220-6779.

RCC Remembers Our Veterans

2010-12-27T12:51:00.000-08:00

Since there was a surplus of Christmas wreaths, the RCC decided to decorate the Veterans grave sites at Fariview Cemetery. Since there was too much snow to see the names, several wreaths were set at the base of the Veteran Memorial in the cemetery and the others were hung on the fence by the entrance. Vice President Bill Benson, also a veteran, performed this honorable and solemn act.

Public Information on Sex Offenders

2010-12-23T15:56:00.000-08:00

The Rockford Community Center will be hosting representatives from the Spokane County Sheriff's Department at our next RCC general meeting scheduled for Monday, January 3rd at 6:30. THIS MEETING IS BEING HELD AT TOWN HALL . Captain Werner will be there to discuss the sex offender map, what the levels mean, how the public can access information and to answer your questions. We will hold the general meeting after this presentation, time permitting. The board meeting will be held prior to this meeting beginning at six o'clock.

Minutes from November 1, 2010 RCC Meeting

2010-11-15T13:07:00.000-08:00

Meeting called to order by Chair Lorrie Pope @ 6:35pm

Members present: Todd Hart, Sean Hart, Tyler B., Kevin Lewis, Linda Thomas, Chris & Dan Thompson, Vivian Plank, Phil Evans, Mary-Lou Benson, Lorrie & Tom Pope, Nick S.
Guest: Sheila Dyer-North Palouse Food Bank

Minutes approved as presented

Community Center
Todd reported that the Center was almost clean after the last event but needed more cleaning which was done the next morning. There was a discussion as to how to get the Center cleaned after activities. It was suggested that possibly having an earlier closing at 10pm if additional cleaning was necessary at the previous activity; to have the cleaning done at "half-time" or turning the lights on just before the end so it could be picked up. It was also suggested that the Rules of Conduct be prominently displayed so the members know what is expected..
Phil reported that the wreaths will be delivered on Nov 17th or 18th. The prices will be $20 for the plain (a redbow and 3 pine cones) and $25 for the more decorated ones. There was a discussion as to where to sell them. Tom and Lorrie may be availble to sell them on the south corner of the Rockford City Park and they can be sold at the RCC. The decorated wreaths will need to be kept cool so they will be stored in Todd's storage area for a very short time, or the front area of the the RCC can be "closed in" with plastic sheeting and the covered air-hockey table can be used for storage.
It was decided that any additional equipment needed in the RCC could be requested via Craig's list.

Gardens
Phil reported that the greenhouse will be moved next o the north edge of the post office parking lot and close enough to his house for the power and water supply. The plywood on the greenhouse needs to be scraped and painted.
We were reminded of all the work Keith and Linda Wigen with the gardens. Greg Sprague tilled Garden #1 on First Street and Garden #2 on River Street. Mary-Lou will send him a note of thanks.
Keith will be asked to take on the 2011 Gardens Committee chair. Lorrie and Tom have contacted people who can provide rejected railroad ties for raised beds. Lorrie and Tom also toured the East Valley School Program Garden located at Sullivan Road and Wellesley Avenue in Spokane Valley and were impressed.
Phil presented the concept of "Community Supported Agriculture". The people of the community "buy" a portion of the garden and receive a basket of food from the garden each week. A discussion resulted in that there would be a need to pay up front and some kind of contract would need to be signed. Phil also talked about "PEACH" located in Vinegar Flats in southwest Spokane.

Sheila Dyer spoke about the Food Bank in Fairfield. She thanked us for the canned goods that were recently donated and said that the additional food needed for the holidays included canned pumpkin. Volunteers are needed to help staff the Food Bank to give relief to the present volunteers.

Fairfield Care (Center) in Fairfield is in dire need of furniture, fixtures, etc. Please contact Karl Felgenhauer for information on any supplies that may be needed.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:15pm.

Mary-Lou Benson
Secretary

Veterans Day Salute a Success

2010-11-15T12:38:00.000-08:00

On November 11th a Salute to Veterans was held in the RCC. Many from the community and surrounding area were in attendance. Pastor David Lura was the master of ceremony which is appropriate as he is a retired chaplain with the US Navy.
To start things off, a flag salute was done as well as the singing of the national anthem. Special guests Stan Primmer and Phil Purcell told of their recent trip to Washington D.C. on the Honor Flight. In the audience were Betty Myers and (?) Spooner who also talked of their "Honor Flight" experience with the women veterans. All of their experience of the war was shared with pride, passion and emotion--a time not soon forgotten.
About 40 were in attendance and it was a very memorable experience for all.
Thank you again to all who have served our country and our active military.

Rockford Roast Coffee

2010-11-08T19:08:00.000-08:00

Have you tried the coffee at the RCC? Did you know that Rockford has it's very own blend of coffee and it's available to you at the Rockford Community Center. Roasthouse Coffee of Spokane has created a special blend just for Rockford. It is a medium roast blend consisting of Ethiopian, Guatamalan and Sumatran beans. These are premium beans that come directly from the farmer to the Roasthouse. It is shade grown coffee and the farmers are paid above fair trade prices. One pound packages are available in whole bean, drip, espresso, decaf and course ground for french press. The cost is $10.00 per pound or you can try a sample pot size for $2.00. Call the RCC for more information or just stop by and try a cup on us.

Holiday Wreaths available at the RCC

2010-11-08T18:24:00.000-08:00

Now taking orders for holiday wreaths at the RCC.
Prices are $20.00 for plain and $25.00 for decorated.
Wreaths can be pre-ordered and picked up at the RCC beginning November 11th through December 4th. Call RCC @ 291-3605 for information.
Special arrangements can be made by contacting the RCC.

Salute a Veteran

2010-10-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

On November 11th at 11:00 am there will be a special recognition for Veterans at the Rockford Community Center. Local resident Stan Primmer will share his recent experience on the Honor Flight which took him and other veterans to Washington, D.C. to see the World War II memorial.
You are invited to attend and show your appreciation to the men and women who fought for the freedom we have in our country. A light lunch will also be provided. For information call (509) 291-4601.

Halloween Events In Rockford

2010-10-26T12:23:00.000-07:00

Halloween Party in the Rockford Community Center
Hot Dogs and Bonfire in the Park
Costume Party in the McIntosh Grange

All events start at 5:30pm on October 31st

Have fun and watch out for the GHOULS & GOBLINS!!

Meals on Wheels in Rockford

2010-10-19T07:30:00.000-07:00

Rockford Community Center (RCC) officers Mary-Lou Benson and Phil Evans met with Pam Almeada with the Spokane Valley Meals on Wheels program on October 15th, 2010.
Pam is looking at four possible places in Rockford that are acceptable to set up the operation. The McIntosh Grange buildng, Rockford United Methodist Church and the St Joseph Catholic Church Parish Hall were looked at but it was decided to serve the meals in the Community Center which is also in line with the RCC mission of helping those in the Rockford area in need of assistance.

Pam said that Meals on Wheels will be in Rockford one day a week and distribute 6 frozen additional meals for those who participate in the program. Those who are house-bound would have their meals delivered to them by local volunteers. Arrangements are being made to prepare the meals at the Fairfield Care facility (former Fairfield Good Samaritan Center) as this kitchen complies with the Spokane Regional Health District regulations. The meals would then be served at the RCC and the 6 frozen meals would be taken home for the rest of the week.

The projected time to begin Meals on Wheels in Rockford is around the last of December or first of January, 2011. The list of names of people in the community who need meals brought to them and those who would come to the RCC for their meals are being gathered. Volunteers are also needed to take the meals to the house-bound.
If you or someone you know will benefit from this program or would like to volunteer, please call Mary-Lou at (509) 291-3146 for more information.

Free Yard & Garden Debris Collection Day

2010-10-12T12:07:00.000-07:00

Saturday, November 6th is the next yard & garden debris collection event day. Leaves, grass, brush and other home yard trimmings will only be accepted. The hours are from 9 am to 3 pm behind the Town of Rockford city hall. This service is provided at no charge. If you need assistance or have questions, please call the city hall @ (509) 291-4716.

A Financial Forum For Women

2010-10-06T07:35:00.000-07:00

Seeking women who want to take control of their financial future! Spend the day with smart and sassy women reaching for financial wellness. The economic crisis has left many families struggling. Take control of your money and your life. Create your own financial opportunities and share what you learn with your friends! Only $15.00, includes lunch! Space is limited and call (509)242-4205 to register.

WHEN: October 9, 2010 from 9:00am to 3:00pm.
WHERE: Central YWCA-930 North Monroe St, Spokane, WA

RCC Agenda for October 4, 2010 Meeting

2010-10-04T13:29:00.000-07:00

Minutes from September 20th meeting
Treasurer's report

Rockford Community Center (RCC):
1) Youth (Nick, Sean, Todd)
2) Halloween ideas (Todd)
3) Fund raising ideas, vending machines, holiday sales (Lorrie)
4) Fair booth summary (Phil)
5) Wood stove pellets (Phil, Tom)
6) Attending a Freeman School Board meeting (Todd, Phil, Lorrie)

Community Gardens
1) Catholic church location (Todd)
2) Water for the gardens (Todd)
3) Possible garden sites

Communication
1) Newsletter (Lorrie)
2) Website update (Lorrie)

Nezt meeting date?
Adjourn

Rockford Community Center Meeting Minutes August 16, 2010

2010-08-24T12:22:00.000-07:00

The meeting was called to order at 6:30pm by Chair Lorrie Pope

Members present were Mary-Lou Benson, Tom Pope, Lorrie Pope, Scott Christiansen, Susan Gallagher, Todd Hart, Micki Harnois, Linda Clark-Evans, Phil Evans, Vivian Plank, Sean Hart and Jake Benson

Minutes from August 2, 2010 meeting were approved as presented.

A suggestion was brought up that we have a separate section of the meeting to discuss Horizons projects. It was noted that everything that the RCC is involved in a Horizons project because the community center, community gardens and communications were the three sections of the project.

The discussion about the youth activities was tabled.

Communications:
Advertising was discussed for the next year. More signs of smaller size are needed- a banner that reads "Rockford Community Center" on the first line and "A Horizons Community" on the second line. There should be more advertising in the local papers and balloons located near activities.

Community Center:
Old Business:
Phil Evans gave a report about the time at the rest stop on US 395 south of Ritzville. There was a profit of $149.00.

Sean Hart gasve a report on the dance that was held on August 6, 2010. It was not well attended due to the lack of notification. There was one citizen complaint about the music being too loud for the kids' hearing.

New Business:
There are two cordless phones that were purchased and are charged and ready to go. The phone lines have been installed. It was decided that on Tuesday, August 17th, Sean and Jake will assist in pulling wires through the wall and Tom will connect them. The phone number of the RCC is (509) 291-3605. It will be for local service only.

Phil presented a calendar for scheduling of the staff at the RCC. He will call those who have volunteered to staff.

Mary-Lou presented the list of those who have passed the background check. Scott will provide the names of those who were done through the Sheriff's Fairfield SCOPE office.

First Step Internet has hooked up the wiring. A shelf is needed to place the equipment.

PAML has not returned Vivian's request for used computers at this time. She will email them again, ask for a time frame and model number of the laptops that will be given to the RCC.

Diane Woodman has a pool table to donate that needs no work. It was suggested that it be looked at and determined if it the same type and in better condition than the one we already have and if it has a slate surface. The question arose as to what we will do with the one we now have. Storage was discussed as well as possibly renting a unit from Ashford Storage. Todd will look into a deal that Paul Sifford might offer on a unit.

Todd will contact his insurance carrier to find out the policy regarding having a pellet stove for heat.

Micki mentioned that she has the Horizon board that was displayed at last year's Southeast Spokane County Fair in Rockford. Linda has the Community Center display ans she will combine the two displays to present in the Ag Building during this year's Fair. Lorrie and Tom will set up a table outside the RCC during the "3 on 3" basketball tournament. Phil will staff an RCC booth beside the food booths in the Fairgrounds.

Phil will research tree nurseries to find out the prices of wreaths. Vivian requested that the wreaths be pre-sold to prevent the stock left over as last year. It was determined that the money will be collected at the time of ordering.

Recycling was also discussed as a fund raising activity.

Todd stated that he intends to be in his store at least for two more years. The lease for RCC is from June 1st to May 31st. His store remaining open will depend on the voter approval of two initiatives proposed this election regarding the privatization of liquor sales.

Mary-Lou reported that the farmer's market was almost completely sold out on August 14th.

Phil discussed a CD he had to view entitled "Business Plan for Non-Profit".

There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:30pm

Mary-Lou Benson
Secretary

Agenda for August 16, 2010 RCC Meeting

2010-08-16T09:34:00.000-07:00

Starting time: 6:30pm at the Rockford Community Center

Report from Youth (action plan for activities (dances)
Phone update-voice mail
Background checks
Chaperones
RCC Hours of operation/Schedule for coverage
Internet
Future of RCC location
Winter heating of RCC
Advertising ideas for next year
Computers
Pool tables
Fair Representation for RCC
Fund raising-wreaths

Old Business
Rest stop report
August 6th dance report

New Business

Adjourn

Minutes from July 19th RCC Meeting

2010-08-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

The meeting was called to order by Chair Lorrie Pope at 6:30pm.

In attendance were: Mary-Lou Benson, Nick Reeves, Todd Hart, Lorrie Pope, Linda Thomas, Linda Clark-Evans, Phil Evans, Beryl Childs, Linda Seaman, Kathy Creed and Hannah Thiede

Minutes from the July 5th meeting were approved as presented.

Treasurer's Report: Total in checking account is $10,285.03 with $9,865.00 being from the Horizons grant.

Committee reports:

Farmers' Market: The sales from last weekend was $#238.50. There were 5 vendors and $80.00 of Rockford Roast coffee was sold.

Community Gardens: Spinach and looseleaf lettuce were ready for the market. Fairfield food bank delivery of spinach and lettuce will be made on Friday monring. Todd hart volunteered transportation for anyone who needs to go to the food bank. Water meters are installed at garden #2 by the Catholic church. The water meters will be installed at Linda Thomas' garden
#1 at a convenient time for her. The triangle area by the park rest rooms has been planted.

Community Center: First Step Internet is providing internet service free of charge. Phil will supervise its functions. Thank you cards are needed for donors. A special one will be given to Keith and Linda Wigen for their work on the triangle landscape area in the park. There will be a charge of $1.00 or 1 hour of donated time for the use of the games in the center. Nick noted that the youth need to be interested before any decision is made.

Old Business
Revisions to the By-laws were accepted with some additions to Rules of Conduct regarding public display of affection. Nick will research the wording from the Washington Administrative Code.
Background checks will be submitted by Mary-Lou
Phil and Linda-Clark Evans will need about 100 dozen cookies for the rest stop on August 6th through 8th.
There was a reminder given of the mind mapping session on July 20th at the Parish Hall. Everyone who has expressed an interest has been invited.
Nick will have a contact at the Coeur d' Alene Casino check with the public relations staff to see if they will donate another larger Rockford Community Center sign.
The RCC Open House will be on August 1st from 2-4pm. Cookies are needed.
Phil researched the sell of wreaths at the Spokane Valley Mall. It was decided that the "up-front" cost of $500 and a percentage of the profit be given was too expensive. It was decided that we will sell them in Rockford at $25 per wreath and take pre-orders.

New Business
Vivian will do more research on the Home Deport grant. Another prospect is ....Cities Institute...small projects for cities and towns for material or money or both.
Kathy Creed requested a donation to send kids to Grange Camp. It was approved that a $150.00 donation be given.
There will be a car wash on July 24th. The Methodist Church has given permission to the youth for the use of the parking lot. There will be a dance on August 6th in the park. Nick will ask the Town Council for permission to hold the dance and use the Fair Building. He was reminded that there needs to be at least 2 chaperones and the music is to be kept at or below the 10 decibel level. A request will also be presented to the Lions Club and Fair Board as a matter of courtesy.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45pm.

Submitted,
Mary-Lou Benson, Secretary

RCC Meeting Agenda for August 2, 2010

2010-08-02T14:30:00.000-07:00

Agenda for August 2, 2010

Minutes
Treasurer's Report
Discussion of meeting rules
Open House recap
Rest Stop update
Internet update
Fair booth
Donations (what we need)
Getting computers
Fundraisers
Code of Conduct
Adjourn

A Big Donation to the RCC--Hot Dog!

2010-08-02T14:17:00.000-07:00

The Banner Bank Weenie Wagon was in the Rockford city park on July 29th. They served hot dogs, potato chips, cookies and pop. This was in conjunction with the Movies in the Park program.
The items remaining were donated to the Rockford Community Center (RCC) for a future barbecue. The donatation consisted of 5 cases of hot dogs, 6+ cases of hot dog buns, 3 cases of potato chips and a case of pop.
Some of these items will also be donated to the Immaculate Heart Retreat in Spokane and the North Palouse Food Bank in Fairfield.
Thank you to Banner Bank for the donation.

Free Summer Activities

2010-07-28T14:05:00.001-07:00

We are so fortunate to have many events this summer for the whole family and they do not cost a cent.

Wednesday Afternoons--Summer Swim Program @ Tekoa Pool
Wednesday Nights--Basketball in the Park @ 8:00pm
Thursday Nights--Movies in the Park @ dusk (free popcorn and pop)
August 6th 7-11pm --Youth Dance in the Park
August 21st 11am-3pm-- Hot Rockford Nights Car Show/Swap Meet in the Park
August 21st 7pm--Free Piano Concert by recording artist John Nilsen @ Rockford United Methodist Church

Other activities:
Farmers Market in the park on Saturdays from 9-3

Rockford Community Center Open House

2010-07-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

There will be an open house in the new Rockford Community Center (RCC) on Sunday, August 1st from 2-4 pm. It is located at the southeast corner of Emma Street and First Street in the same building as Cindy Lou's Dog Grooming. There will be refreshments and a mini tour of the facility. RCC has recently received 501 c 3 nonprofit status. Please come and see the beneficial community facilty.

Minutes of July 5, 2010 Meeting

2010-07-08T10:13:00.001-07:00

Meeting was called to order at 6:34pm by Chairperson Lorrie Pope

In attendance was Mary-Lou Benson, Todd Hart, Sean Hart, Levi Pereira, Phil Evans, Tom Pope, Lorrie Pope, Patrick Malone, Micki Harnois, Beryl Childs and Vivian Plank.

The June 21, 2010 minutes were approved as presented.

Treasurer's Report (all in checking) RCC $339.75
501c 3 $9,865.00

$135.00 was withdrawn from 501c 3 account to pay for the Money Management Class for Certification as Money Managers that was attended by Mary-Lou Benson, Vivian Plank and Linda Thomas.

The officers were introduced and each gave a brief resume.

The by-laws were examined and amendments and deletions were discussed. Mary-Lou will rewrite them as proposed and will present at the August 2, 2010 meeting.

Old Business
Vivian talked about the Money Management Class that she and others attended. A session will be held for members at a later date.
The Farmers Market made a profit of $73.90 last Saturday.
A fund raiser for the farmers' market through the RCC was presented by Lorrie Pope. She suggested that a special coffee be purchased and sold at the market under its' own label. It was suggested that the coffee be tried first to see if it would be accepted by the market patrons.
The Community Center has furniture and some of the painting has been done.
Todd noted that there is more work to be done and asked those who can do so to help.
The Community Gardens have been planted and are growing. Some tomato plants had to be replaced.
The youth car wash that was held last Saturday netted $40.00.

New Business
Micki talked about the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) conference in Vancouver, WA that she recently attended. The Horizons program was presented and was a hit and peaked the interest of several communities of all sizes throughout the state.
A brief synopsis of the 18-month Horizon's Poverty Reduction Program was presented and the short and long term goals for Community Center, Communications and Community Gardens was discussed. The goals that have been met were identified and those not completed remain on the list.
New short term goals identified for the Community Center include:
1. The Center will be up and running by it's open house date
2. The computers will be functioning
3. The pool table will be fixed
4. The Community Center will have a web site of its' own
5. Open House will be held on Sunday, August 1, 2010 from 2-4pm.
Phil has secured a time for serving refreshments at the Hatton-Coulee Rest Area located at the junction of US Hwy 395 and SR Hwy 26. The date is August 6-8, 2010. He and Linda (Clark-Evans) will staff it all three days and may have help with some of the youth. He is asking for donations of cookies from members. There is a chance that he may also be able to secure the spot on June 20-22, 2011. This will be discussed at a later date.
Patrick talked about grants that are available on the website www.Grants.gov that are municipal grants but federally funded. He also advised the Board to make decisions as one body in regard to programs, grants, etc. so there is accountability.
There will be a two hour mind mapping event that will evaluate the progress of the Rockford Horizons program. This will be held on July 20th at 6pm in the St Joseph Catholic Church Parish Hall located on south River Street. Food and refreshments will be served. It is intended that everyone who participated in the program will be contacted and invited to attend as well as the general population of Rockford.
Grants offered by the National Gardening Association and Home Depot were discussed.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:15pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary-Lou Benson
Secretary

Minutes from June 21, 2010 Meeting

2010-07-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

The meeting was called to order by Chairman Todd Hart at 6:30pm.

Members present were Mary-Lou Benson, Tom Pope, Lorrie Pope, Phil Evans, Linda Clark-Evans, Bill Creed, Kathy Creed, Todd Hart, Sean Hart, Billy Lafferty and Levi Pereira.

Minutes from the June 7, 2010 minutes were approved.

Treasurer's report (all in checking): RCC account $615.20
RCC 501c 3 $10,000.00

Results of election of officers:
Chairperson Lorrie Pope
Vice-Chairman Phil Evans
Secretary Mary-Lou Benson
Treasurer Vivan Plank
Youth Chairman Nick Reeves
Vice Youth Chairman Sean Hart

Phil presented a fund raiser of a Home Depot grant for gardening.

Community Center-
First Step Internet will hook up cable once the location of the computers is determined.
Mona Vanek donated a router.
A new computer is needed for the Master/Staff computer

Vivian gave a briefing of the SNAP meeting that she recently attended.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:50pm for all to attend the Town Hall meeting with State Rep. Susan Fagan. A work party will follow in the Community Center.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary-Lou Benson
Secretary

North Palouse Community Food Bank Summer Hours

2010-07-02T16:48:00.000-07:00

New summer hours of operation of the North Palouse Community Food Bank located behind the Fairfield Fire Station on North Railroad Street.

Saturday, July 10 9 am to noon
Thursday, July 15 4 pm to 7 pm
Saturday, July 24 9 am to noon
Saturday, August 14 9 am to noon
Thursday, August 19 4 pm to 7 pm
Saturday, August 28 9 am to noon

Website: http://www.orgsites.com/wa/northpalousecommunityfoodbank

For EMERGENCY needs at times other than scheduled hours of operation, you may call (509) 279-0842 or (509) 844-8551

Rockford Community Center Agenda for June 21, 2010 Meeting

2010-06-21T15:13:00.000-07:00

Meeting will be at the Harvest Moon Restaurant starting @ 6:30pm

Call to order
Roll Call
Approval of June 7th minutes
Treasurer's Report
Election of 2010-2011 Officers
Adjourn

State Rep Susan Fagan will be at the Rockford City Hall at 7pm
Rockford Community Center work party will meet after that

Submitted,
Mary Lou Benson
Secretary

Movies in the Park start June 17th

2010-06-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

It is that time again for summer family fun! One way to enjoy the warm evenings is to watch one of the movies in the Rockford City Park. They are shown on Thursday nights starting at dusk and are rated G, PG or PG-13 (with prior approval by the committee). There is free popcorn and pop donated by local businesses and organizations. It is fun to watch families settle in with their lawn chairs and blankets, forgetting all their cares for a couple hours. The one drawback is that younger kids still have to be taught to pick up their litter instead of others doing it for them. Hopefully this year it will be different. I have missed 3 movies since this activity has been happening (3-4 years?). Movies have included Sandlot, The World's Fastest Indian, RV, August Rush and Nim's Island. Most of the time cartoons are shown first.
Come join us for a fun memorable experience!

Calling All Community Garden Volunteers

2010-06-15T16:14:00.000-07:00

It is now time for planting! Last night (June 14th) was the first night for the big dig!. Now that the weather has improved we are ready to get started. If you want to help with the Community Gardens whether it be to plant, water or harvest it would be greatly appreciated. Remember that the produce will either be sold every Saturday at the Farmers Market to benefit the Rockford Community Center or given to families/persons in need. For more information contact Keith Wigen @ (509) 291-3602

State Representative Susan Fagan Will Hold Town Hall Meeting

2010-06-09T13:23:00.000-07:00

On Monday, June 21st at 7:00pm State Representative Susan Fagan from the 9th Legislative District will be holding a Town Hall meeting in the Rockford City Hall.
She will be discussing the state budget as well as important legislative bills and issues. Plan on attending and expressing your ideas and concerns as this helps Susan as she does her job "for us" in Olympia.

For information call (509) 291-4716.

Rockford Community Center/Horizons June 7, 2010 Meeting Minutes

2010-06-09T12:30:00.000-07:00

The meeting was called to order at 6:40pm by Chairman Todd Hart
In attendance were Mary-Lou Benson, Vivian Plank, Lorrie Pope, Tom Pope, Todd Hart, Billy Lafferty, Sean Hart and Micki Harnois
The minutes of the May 17th meeting were approved.
There is a total of $10,847.97 in the checking account and no grant funds have been spent.

Community Center
Plans are being made for a work party to do the following: bolt the bookcases in place; spackle the holes in the sport activity wall; paint the "movie screen" wall, sport activity wall, entrance wall,and book shelves; move the half-wall; sand the computer tables; set up the computers; set up the TV/DVD/VCR; retrofit the overhead lights and paint the ceiling; measure the "social area" floor for carpeting; set up the sports equipment and stock the bookcases and shelves. The work party will be on Monday evenings after the meetings or when enough people are available to help with the moving and the lifting.

Things needed for the work party: a) paint (1 gallon flat latex for the "movie screen" wall, 5 gallons cream semi-gloss washable for entry and sports area and 5 gallons of white ceiling paint), b) computer router and c) computer software.

Todd Hart and Tom Pope will change the lights. Avista will give a $25 rebate for each light replaced.

Background checks for all adults assisting with Community Center activities will be started once the consent forms are signed.

There was discussion regarding a banner for the Farmer' Market as well as the Rockford Community Center. We will check on a price for the Farmers' Market banner.

Community Gardens
The Farmers' Market made a profit of $47 with 3 vendors present.
The vendors from last year were sent letters and some completed forms have been received.
Mary-Lou Benson gave a mini-training on how to operate the produce scale and figure out pricing of items for the Farmers' Market.
Those who have expressed an interest in helping with planting have been notified and are "on call" until the ground is dry enough.
There was $201 spent on the triangle plot located in front of the restrooms at the park. Keith Wigen began the construction of the first tier wall and it will be finished once it quits raining. Keith has the full list of plantings which includes tomato, pepper and seed potato starts.

Communication
The Town has elected to stay with the present webmasters
There are lists of businesses on the web that can be accessed and linked with the RCC/Horizons page.

A free community dinner was held on May 27th at the Rockford Methodist Church Fellowship Hall with 37 people being fed. This will continue with the St Joseph Catholic Church participating in the preparations. It will be held on the fourth Thursday of the month from 5:30-6:30pm.

Vivian Plank is doing the overview of the paperwork for all our projects.

The short term plans that have been achieved are: 1) having the web page up and running, 2) the community calendar is now included in the town utility bill and is available at the local businesses, 3) the second year for the community gardens is now and they are ready for planting and 4) the Rockford Community Center now has a "home" with preparations being made to accommodate the activities that will be offered.

Those nominated for new officers include:
Chair-Lorrie Pope
Vice-Chair -Todd Hart
Secretary-Mary-Lou Benson
Treasurer-Vivian Plank
Youth Chair- vacant
Vice-Youth Chair-Sean Hart

There were no other nominations.

State Representive Susan Fagan with the 9th Legislative District will be holding a Town Hall Meeting on June 21st.

The next RCC/Horizons meeting will be on July 5, 2010 at 6:30pm.

Meeting adjourned at 8:10pm

Respectfully submitted,

Mary-Lou Benson, Secretary

Free Community Dinner-No Strings Attached

2010-05-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

There will a free community dinner on May 27th at the Rockford Community Methodist Church from 5:30-6:30 pm. Donations will not be expected.

The dinners will occur on the 4th Thursday of the month. The goal is to get residents out of their house for an evening and share a meal with their neighbors.

If you would like to help please call Susan Gallagher @ (509)291-3339.

Rockford Horizons Poverty Reduction Meeting Minutes May 17th, 2010

2010-05-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

The meeting was called to order at 6:30pm at the Harvest Moon Restuarant. Eleven members were in attendance as well as Horizons trainer, Patrick Malone.
Minutes of the May 3, 2010 meeting were approved.

Community Gardens:
The people who were interested in helping with the gardens last year will be contacted.
The gardens have a need of an application of Round-up because of the infestation of morning glory. Bill Benson has tilled Garden #3 at the Stevensons. Someone has donated tomato plants that need to be planted "now". This will be done as help surfaces.
The 4-H group are willing to help with the gardens. Barb Gady is the contact person.
There was discussion with the Catholic church regarding the water timer for Garden #2This will be beneficial and Keith Wigen will research the cost.

Communications:
Bill Strawn suggested that we contact TV station KXLY and put our events on their local community calendar which airs in the morning during the 5:30 am segment of the show. It was advised that we also contact KHQ and KREM.
The Exchange paper is dedicating one to two pages for local news for the Palouse weekly. This is to take the place of the North Palouse Journal on a temporary basis.

Mayor Micki Harnois presented information on the Town of Odessa Public Development Authority (PDA). She explained that there are several PDAs established in smaller towns in Eastern Washington and they use the same boiler plate format and language. It is hoped that Rockford will set one up soon.

Old Business:
The Rockford Community Center received approval of the 501c 3 tax exempt status on May 10, 2010. Any donations of material or money will be noted as to donor and value and kept in the RCC records.
The Rockford beautification project will be brought before the Town Council.
The status of the sale or lease of the Exxon station is unknown.
Mayor Micki met with one of the Town webmasters on May 6th. It was suggested that we should hire a professional to take this position as the webmasters will be graduating from high school this summer and want to increase salary. Micki will explore possibilities of a professional webmaster and the cost if the current webmasters can not continue.

New Business:
Rockford Community Center
There will be a meeting soon to move items in the building away from the walls to begin the preparation process of cleaning, painting and moving in.
The Farmers' Market will begin on June 5th and will continue through the summer. It was asked that we search for musicians to perform.
The Horizons banner for the Town is 4 feet by 6 feet and can be displayed during every Horizons sponsored event. Mayor Micki asked where it would be kept. Patrick Malone suggested that we contact other Horizons communities to find out how theirs are being stored.
Patrick presented suggestions for the gardens such as "Plant A Row for the Hungry" and Feed Spokane. These projects provide produce that is donated to Inland Second Harvest. We opted to keep our produce in the Rockford area. There is a mobile food bank that may help distribute food. The food bank in Fairfield is our local receiver of our harvest.
A free community dinner is being provided on the 4th Thursday of the month in the Rockford Methodist Church basement. There will be no donations received. Anyone who wishes to help can contact Susan Gallagher for more information.

Meeting adjourned at 8:05 pm.

Respectfully submitted,
Mary-Lou Benson

Rockford Horizons Poverty Reduction May 17th Meeting Agenda

2010-05-18T16:06:00.000-07:00

Status of 501 c 3 for Rockford Community Center
Rockford beautification project
Rockford Mini-Mart status
Report of meeting between Mayor Micki and the web maasters
Community Gardens report
List of interested participants
Time of rototilling
Planting timetable
Timer for Garden#2 at the Catholic Church
Communication Report

Rockford Horizons Poverty Reduction May 3, 2010 Meeting Minutes

2010-05-17T14:41:00.000-07:00

The Strategy meeting held on April 28th was intended to provide the committee with strategies for the last part of our program. This was attended by Mary-Lou Benson, Kathy Creeed and Vivian Plank.
Patrick Malone (our coach) laid out the areas:
Asset Building
Earned Income Tax Credit
Micro-enterprise i.e. through SNAP
Community Leadership
Community Capacity
More people are needed for these programs
Public Policy
Community Endowments
A way to increase the money received (our $10,000!!!)
Wealth Sustaining
The group learned of the existance of The Book Parlor in Spokane that carries new and used books at reasonable prices, has a coffee shop and "Fair Trade Gifts". This is one example of micro-enterprise.

Vivian Plank and Mary-Lou Benson attended a luncheon presented by AWALL (Adolescent Women Actively Learning Life's Lessons). The purpose of this organization is to provice a sense of empowerment to adolescent girls who are from low-income families, by mentoring them and giving them skills and confidence to improve their lives.

Bill Benson offered an example of micro-enterprise by citing the impact of the closure of the Rockford Mini-mart (excluding the gas station). The Town has lost a place to purchase small essentials, truck drivers and local residents have lost the quick and available coffee in the early morning and the Rockford Emergency Response Committee has lost the use of coolers and food keeping capacity in case of emergencies. His proposition is that there be a co-op that would maintain the Mini-Mart, open a coffee shop/internet cafe and a deli for quick "to go" sandwiches and pizza. He reminded us that the Mini-Mart used to have pizza but the owners did not want to maintain the ovens, so no pizzas were sold. The plan would add jobs to manage the deli, Mini-mart and internet cafe. Mayor Micki Harnois noted that several people have looked at the Mini-Mart to puchase and are waiting for the price to be lower.

The Rockford beautification project is primarily in the City park along the fence, the basketball court and around the memorial. The bush by the south entrance of the park is blocking the view inside the park. It was the consensus that it should be trimmed back due to the return of drug paraphernalia being found around that side of the park. Local businesses and organizations will be contacted and invited to take part in this project. It is thought that if the park is a safe place and it looks as though the people care about the appearance of the Town there will be more interest in businesses relocating here.

The discussion about public development authorities is on hold.

The Community gardens will be tilled once the ground is dry enough. The local 4-H group is willing to help because they need service hours. Barb Gady is the contact person once there is a schedule for planting.

Approval was given to use retaining stones for the triangle area in front of the restrooms in the park. The cost of $200 will come out of the Community Center budget. There was a suggestion that people can donate a tree, preferably a willow, to plant in the park. Keith Wigen explained that the willow trees will absorb alot of the water and the park won't be so wet. By having the park drier, there won't be a large amount of standing water thus decreasing the mosquito breeding grounds, making the park a healthier place. Also, the existing trees should be sprayed to control the aphids. A suggestion was made to find ladybugs to solve the problem.

The Town webmasters are scheduled to meet with Mayor Micki next Thursday, May 6th at 4:30 pm at the City Hall.

The next meeting will be on May 17th at 6:30 pm at the Harvest Moon Restaurant.

Respctfully submitted,
Mary-Lou Benson

Horizon Leader attends CRM Facilitator Training

2010-05-10T14:59:00.000-07:00

Micki Harnois, Horizon leader attended the Coordinated Resource Management training on April 26-29, 2010.
The basic objectives of the meeting was to:
1) Engage local people in resolving issues
2) Teach skills in facilitating successful meetings, work sessions and other group processes.
3) Learn how groups work together and overcome obstacles in order to solve problems, make decisions and build durable agreements.

It was a great learning experience and will be used a tool to help others in the community learn to express themselves in a group setting and also seek to understand why others feel the way they do.

Rockford Community Center receives 501 c 3 status!

2010-05-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

After many months of hard work and organizing the stacks of paperwork for the IRS, RCC has become non profit and tax exempt. Vivian Plank and Mary-Lou Benson (with expert advice from Linda Thomas) have succeeded in achieving the most important step in the Rockford Horizons program and in our strategic plan. This is the beginning of a worth-while venture of establishing programs beneficial to those of poverty in Rockford. Be sure to thank them for their hard work as well as those who have been dedicated for the last 18 months to the Horizons program.

Meeting With the Webmaster

2010-05-07T17:11:00.000-07:00

A committee consisting of Vivian Plank, Jack Bergstrom and Phil Evans met with one of the Town webmasters Andrew Coumont. (He is graduating from Freeman High School in 23 days!). The group gave suggestion on how the website can be improved with supplying more information regarding organizations, businesses and emergency preparedness. It is going to be interesting to see the improvements.

Rockford Horizons Poverty Reduction Program April 19, 2010 Meeting Minutes

2010-05-07T16:58:00.000-07:00

Ten members were present.

The paperwork for 501 c 3 status was submitted on April 14, 2010.

Mayor Micki Harnois suggested that Rockford start a Public Development Authority. The initial steps are to 1) obtain the go-ahead from the Town Council and 2)appoint a Board of Directors which would include an attorney, realtor, banker, several business owners and interested citizens. This will be discussed in more detail at a later meeting.

Susan Gallagher has volunteered to be the photographer for the Horizons Team.

The Rockford Beautification Project: 1) identify the spaces that need beautification, 2) list the spaces, 3) present the list to the businesses, organizations or groups, and 4) have each select one space apiece. It can be an "Adopt a Space" or "Foster a Space" for a certain period of time (i.e. one year).

Community Gardens: There are seeds available. Linda and Keith Wigen have starts for flowers and vegetables. The gardens have been plowed but need to be tilled to break up the clods of dirt. Linda Wigen presented her plan for the area in front of the park restrooms. There was a discussion regarding the use of cherry tone timber in that it warps. The choice was due to the cost of materials, the cherry tone timber being the least expensive. It was mentioned that we need flower pots. There was a suggestion that we attempt to make them out of newspaper to have biodegradable ones.

The Blood Mobile is scheduled for Rockford on May 10th from 1:30-3:30pm.

Rockford Community Center April 5, 2010 Meeting Minutes

2010-05-07T16:40:00.000-07:00

Members presnt: Mary-Lou Benson, Joanie Thompson, Susan Gallagher, Todd Hart, Sean Hart, Jeff Barratt, Phil Evans

Meeting called to order at 6:07 pm by Chair Todd Hart

Minutes amended to include Sean Hart as present at the last meeting. Minutes approved as amended.

Treasurer's Report not available.

Old Business:
Status of 501 c 3: All paperwork has been submitted to the IRS. We are awaiting our acceptance as a non-profit organization.
Insurance: All paperwork has been submitted. The premium is $467.00 per year. This quote includes $1 million General Liability, $500,000 Medical Expense to Others and $5,000 Business Personal Property with Special Causes of Loss and a $500 deductible on the BPP. The liability includes the coverage for the Farmer's Market, Basketball in the Park, Movies in the Park and the Christmas Wreaths. The check for that amount will be submitted on Tuesday, April 5, 2010. Items necessary to comply with the insurance: all obtained but not installed pending the approval for coverage.
Status of donated items: On hold until we can get into the building and find places for them.
Surveys: Out of 20 given out 9 have been returned.
Garden Plots: Keith Wigen said that Steve Meyer will plow the fields. Joanie Thonpson has chicken manure to donate. It was mentioned that Fairfield has a greenhouse and will be selling plants. The plan for the area in front of the park restrooms was brought up. There was discussion as to the use of cherry tone timbers as opposed to railroad ties. The deciding factor is the cost of materials. Todd said that he will take two of the trees and leave one. Linda Wigen will use plants from her garden.
Newspaper: No news available.

New Business: Background checks are not being done by SCOPE. Mary-Lou will check with the Washington State Patrol as to the procedure for obtaining background checks.
Lighting for the Community Center: Todd will contact Avista regarding the changing of the existing fixtures to more efficient lighting. There may be a rebate for that.

There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:40pm.

Resptfully submitted,

Mary-Lou Benson
Secretary

Horizon Leader Receives Award

2010-05-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

Mary Lou Benson, one of our original Horizons leader, received special recognition for her many hours of dedication to the Town of Rockford Horizons poverty reduction program. This award was presented by the Rockford United Methodist Church Women at the fellowhip hour after the churhc service on Sunday, May 2nd.
Needless to say Mary Lou was very surprised and appreciative. Even though she is very active in St Joseph Catholic Church in Rockford, Mary Lou attends bible study and various functions at RUMC.
We thank you for all your hard work, Mary Lou!!!

Horizons Poverty Reduction May 3, 2010 Meeting Agenda

2010-05-03T13:24:00.000-07:00

Starting at 6:30 pm at the Harvest Moon Restaurant

Agenda
Status of 501 c 3
Report on April 28th Strategy Meeting
Asset Building
Community Leadership Community Capacity
Public Policy
Community Endowment
Wealth Sharing
Reports on Rockford Beautification Project
Process of selecting sites to identify
Businesses to contact
Names of organizations to contact
Public Development Authority
Identify specific people for Board of Directors
who, why and if they would be willing to serve
Request "blessing" from the Town Council
Gardens
Rototilling time frame for garden #1, #2 and #3
4-H will be willing to help with the gardens
Webmasters meeting
Other
Adjourn

Rockford Community Center May 3, 2010 Meeting Agenda

2010-05-03T13:17:00.000-07:00

Starting time is at 6:00 pm at the Harvest Moon Restaurant

Agenda
Members present
Call to order
Minutes
Treasurer's Report
Old Business:
Status of 501 c 3
Surveys for RCC distribution
Garden plots
Report on progress with plowing and rototilling
Background checks cost before 501 c 3 status
After 501 c 3 status required
Lighting updating cost from Avista
New Business:
Progress on getting the RCC ready for occupancy
Work crews needed
Moving equipment, cleaning, sorting donations, itemizing donations and equipment,
categorizing books
Meeting with town people to determine colors, paint donations, wall decorations, etc
Other
Adjourn

Have an idea for a community health program for Rockford?

2010-04-22T14:39:00.000-07:00

The Post Cereal company is offering a $25,000 grant to communities that have a creative, actionable and impactful proposal to improve the health of their residents. Examples are a greenmarket, building a playground or offering nutrition consultations.
The top 10 finalists will be featured on www.postnatural.com at the beginning of June where visitors can vote for their favorites.
Check out www.postnatural.com/GoodHealthGrant.aspx for more information
Let us know if you have any ideas.

Fairfield Community Closet Needs Your Help

2010-04-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

The Fairfield Community Closet located at 404 N 2nd will be having shorter hours of operation in May and June. This organization offers free clothing to every one of all ages. If this service is not being utilized it may close the doors in July. If you or someone you know needs gently used (or sometimes new) clothes please stop in and see what they have. There may be play outfits for growing children and work clothes for the hard workers in the family for example.
The following hours for May are:
May 11th 11am to 3 pm
18th 3pm to 7 pm
25th 11am to 3 pm
June 8th 11am to 3 pm
15th 3pm to 7 pm
29th 11am to 3 pm

For information call (509) 283-2540 or (509) 291-3033

WSU Sociology Students at Work for You!

2010-03-31T16:34:00.000-07:00

Sociology 433, an undergraduate class at Washington State University, has been researching options and resources for topics that are important to your rural communities as you work to reduce poverty. Topics include: affordable housing, neighborhood safety, youth activities and much, much more.

Your community may be in contact with one of these teams, but all of their research may be relevant to the issues you are addressing. Click to the Horizons website http://www.horizons.wsu.edu/project/horizons3/community.html to read about their work.

Bike Race in the Palouse

2010-03-10T12:30:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, April 10th from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm the Spokane Rocket Velo Cycling Club will be having a Ronde Van Palouse (Tour of the Palouse).

The race starts at Liberty High School and goes northeast on Kentuck Trails Road to Valley Chapel at the Mt Hope Church. The route continues east through Mt Hope on Valley Chapel Road. At Jackson Road follow south to East Rattlers Run Road (the roads are now gravel), turn right, then take an immediate left on South Rattlers Run Road. At West Bradshaw Road turn right to Darknell Road, then turn left until you get onto paved Prairie View Road where you turn right. At the Y at Spangle-Waverly Road turn right and go back to Liberty High School.

The route does not go unto SR Hwy 27 and all roads will remain open to motor vehicle traffic with very few delays, if any.

Contact Mike Sirott @ (509) 868-8604 or email info@spokanerocketvelo.com with questions or concerns.

Beautiful Rockford, WA Stuns Lamont By Holding Rival 'Social Event' In Same Calendar Year

2010-01-27T15:13:00.000-08:00

The charming, strategically located and annoyingly well-managed Town of Rockford stunned the lowly, shockingly self-absorbed Town of Lamont, the 2nd smallest Town in the State, by announcing that they, too, would be putting on an exciting event in this calendar year - on May 1st, 2010 - in spite of the fact that Lamont thought that they had 'dibs' on the year 2010 and thus could expect no competition to their 100 year festival from anywhere in the State. (What collective self-delusion!) "Well, I guess times are changing around here!" said the huffy Mayor who tends to crumble when faced with competition of any kind. "So when I got wind of that surprisingly clever Sadie Hawkins/May Day dance on May 1st - held in Rockford's own fairgrounds (what show-offs! We don't even have a public bathroom and they have an entire fairgrounds? Oh yea, life is fair!) - of course I was consumed with envy and angst" said the brooding public servant. "Sure, we naturally look up to towns like Rockford with all of their fancy trees and stores and restaurants and all of that - but a dance? The only way that the citizenry of Lamont could ever work up the courage to dance in public would somehow involve a jug of moonshine and the woeful siren call of a lone banjo or whatever. But these Rockfordians are organizing a whole event around dancing! What nerve! What bravery! What unbelievable gumption! And what’s with their smarty-pants Mayor - Micki Harnois? She is a doggone genius! And then there's that amazing over-achiever Clerk/Treasurer they have - that iconic Darlene! Dang! How are we ever supposed to compete against that? But anyway, I still thought we had 'dibs' on 2010! Is nothing sacred anymore? Let me guess, they don't resolve disputes with the time-honored 'Scissors, Rock, Paper" method anymore, either! Oh, I just wish I was the Lamont mayor back in our heyday - the year 1911. Things were just so much simpler! " he sniveled.The inspired and lovely Town of Rockford (known as the Gateway To The North Palouse!) is located on SR 27 about 15 miles south of Spokane Valley - and will be holding their really cool dance at the Rockford fairgrounds (the money raised will go to support the fairgrounds which is a darn good cause in these budget cutting times! Go help!) on Saturday, May 1st from 6:00-10:00 pm. Lamont, on the other hand, is having their 100 year festival in the town park (that we need to rename 'The Lamont Fairgrounds', for Pete's sake! Why don't we have a fairgrounds?) on Saturday, June 19th at 11:00 AM. Mark your calendars for both events! The strength and beauty that is America is contained in its small towns - so stop being so busy and come savor the vibrant beauty we all once took for granted. You can ease into the richness that is Americana by going to the Rockford event first then plunge yourself back 100+ years by attending the Lamont festival on June 19th. (Going straight from the modern world into Lamont might be too shocking to all but the most robust nervous systems - so it is better to ease into it via Rockford first! Better safe than sorry, as we always say!)Besides stores, restaurants and businesses of any kind, some other cool things that Rockford has and Lamont does not includes: Little League baseball, a really smart, socially robust Mayor (who is on the AWC Board of Directors, too, for crying out loud!), an annual Frog Race, basketball, horsemanship, summer movies in the park, a Saturday Farmer's & Flea Market and teen organized dances (there is that dancing AGAIN!). And the summer culminates (that means finishes up or something) with the Southeast Spokane County Fair where three lovely young ladies are crowned Queen and princesses. This amazingly complicated organizational effort (by Lamont standards) also includes exhibits, entertainment, concessions, rides, vendors, and booths manned by civic groups serving wholesome (what?) homemade foods in the fairgrounds and Town Park. (they have a park too? Isn't the fairgrounds enough? Dang!) Oh yea, and they have a streetlight, too! (darn their eyes!)

Taken from The World of Lamont, Washington http://lamont-wa.blogspot.com/

Micki Harnois sworn in as New Mayor

2010-01-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

On January 2, 2010 the Rockford City Hall was filled with family, friends and associates as Micki Harnois was sworn in as the new mayor of Rockford. RUMC Pastor Kathy Barrick opened with an inspirational blessing and Clerk-treasurer Darlene Lashaw performed the ceremony.
Micki has been involved with the Rockford Horizons program since the beginning including the Study Circles, Leadership Plenty and the strategic planning. She has been involved in various community organizations for many years.
The highlight for her was doing a presentation about the Rockford Horizons program at the Inland Northwest Partners conference last fall. One of the board members was inspired by the effort to reduce poverty and the local donations for the recent stream bank project that he nominated the Town of Rockford for a Community "Hometown Heroes" Award which we received in November. This plaque is proudly on display in the Rockford City Hall.

Horizons Leadership Meeting- January 4, 2010

2010-01-12T12:51:00.000-08:00

Present: Todd Hart, Mary-Lou Benson, Vivian Plank, Sean Hart, Micki Harnois, Jeff Barrett
Called to order at 6:45 pm.

Community Gardens:
There will be a separate garden meeting soon to plan the crops, placement, discuss what we learned from last year, raised beds, greenhouse covering.
Keith Wigen has said that the church garden (#2) should be expanded. There is also a need for more "weeders" this year.
The raised beds that are made of pine should be lined with plastic.
Micki said that there are water meters available but need to be adapted which Todd agreed to do. The twelve meters were donated by Consolidated Irrigation District #19 in Spokane Valley.
The Osterberg's have a heated greenhouse that may be available for use.
The tomato/peper crop in the Stevenson's garden (#3) will need weeding and care. Terry Bennett did it last year and will take a much deserved break.
The people who volunteered last year will be notified and asked to participate this year.

Farmers Market:
It was suggested that there be a sign-up book for the visitors to the market so they can be contacted and sent a thank you.
The vendors from last year will be contacted by letter.
Mary-Lou and Vivian will attend the Washington State Farmers' Market Association Convention in Tacoma again this year.

Placemats:
We need to determine: 1) the printing cost, 2) will the two restaurants/bars (Fredneck's and the Harvest Moon) be willing to buy them, 3) how are we going to get advertisements and 4) how much will the charge be for ads?

Micki will be attending and presenting at the Horizons state-wide conference on March 19th and 20th in Moses Lake.

Mary-Lou Benson
Facilitator

RCC Meeting Minutes, January 6, 2010

2010-01-12T12:40:00.000-08:00

Members present: Sean Hart, Todd Hart, Mary-Lou Benson, Micki Harnois, Jeff Barrett
Called to order at 6:05 by Chairman Todd Hart
Minutes of previous meeting not read.
No Treasurer's Report offered
Old Business:
The status of the 501 c 3 application was discussed and completed with minor adjustments to be made by Vivian. It should be in the mail before the deadline of January 29, 2010. Once the 501 c 3 status is established, the RCC will fall under the jurisdiction of the Leadership/WSU Horizons umbrella. Meetings will be in the City Hall once that occurs.
New Business:
Todd announced that half of the building beside his store can be used as the Community Center because he has rented the other half. RCC will need to have heat and lights before it can be utilized. The members will examine the building and its needs before proceeding.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:45 pm.
Respectufully submitted,
Mary-Lou Benson
Secretary

Your Money--Earn It! Keep It!! Save It!!

2010-01-12T12:19:00.000-08:00

The United Way's CASH Coalition and its members and volunteers are working together to help you get cash back!

EARN IT--Did you earn less than $43,279 in 2009? The Earned Incom Tax Credit (EITC) could pay you as much as $5,657 based on your earnings and family situation (individual results may vary. You must file your taxes to receive your credit)
KEEP IT--Don't pay to file your taxes. Visit a free tax preparation site to have your taxes carefully prepared and e-filed quickly and without a filing fee (free tax preparation and filing services available subject to eligibility)
SAVE IT--Want to own a home, go to school, buy a car or start a business? There is a program that can help you save money, reduce your debt, and learn to manage your money. For information contact: SNAP Financial Access-509.456.7174, www.snapaccess.org

Taxes can be done free at the following locations from February 1 to April 15 (subject to eligibility on a first come, first served basis):

Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E Main Ave
Spokane Moran Prairie Library, 6004 S Regal St
Call 509.358.3526 for an appointment.

Rockford Horizons Receives Community Award

2010-01-12T11:21:00.000-08:00

On November 18, 2009 the Town of Rockford received a Community "Hometown Heroes" Award from Inland Northwest Partners. We were nominated by Paul Kimmell of Avista for the stream bank work (funded by local donations) as well as the Rockford Horizons program. The award was presented at a luncheon in which Mary Lou Benson (pictured) received the plaque from Joe Tortorelli, Board member of INP. Our group sincerely appreciates this recognition for our community and it is stimulating that the our endeavors are being noticed.

November 10, 2009 Rockford Horizons Meeting

2009-11-24T10:24:00.000-08:00

In attendance were Vivian Plank, Mary Lou Benson, Jacob Benson, Micki Harnois and Phil Evans.

Phil Evans gave a presentation on broadband in Rockford. He has been in contact with several internet providers and cell tower companies about putting antennaes on the Town's new water reservoir (soon to be constructed). Most companies pay an average of $1,000 a month for rental for antennaes place on a structure.

Phil also talked to Mayor Wagner about having a laptop computer for community use to be located in the City Hall. This discussion is still ongoing. A desk would have to be placed in the back area of the City Hall and not connected to the Town's computer system. We will check with Patrick Malone about getting a laptop for our Horizons group.

The next meeting will be Tuesday, November 24, 2009 in the Harvest Moon.

Sign up now for the Hope & Power workshop

2009-11-03T15:42:00.000-08:00

The Inland Northwest Spokane YMCA Alternatives to Domestic Violence Program is putting on a very special Hope & Power workshop. This group offers financial workshops and resources for survivors of domestic violence.

The YMCA location is at 930 N Monroe Street. The Holiday on a Budget workshop will be on November 16, 2009 starting at 5:30 pm. The workshop includes resources for free and inexpensive holidays activities, handmade gift, decoration and card ideas, free crafting supplies and activities for moms and kids to do together. There will also be drawings for special holiday gifts!

Childcare and dinner will be provided with registration. Dinner will be provided by the Campus Kitches Project. Please call (509) 789-9297 to register. This workshop is made possible by a grant from the Allstate Foundation.

Hope and Power offers the following financial programs:
1) Match Savings
Up to $400 to help achieve an education or work related goal.
2) Checking Account Access
Help obtaining a checking account for those who may otherwise have difficulty
doing so
3) Secured Credit Card
Help obtaining a credit card to assist in rebuilding your credit. The security
deposit is provided by the program
4) Life Coaching
Intensive Certified Life Coach lead support to help you achieve your career
related goals.

Please pass this on to those who deserve a great holiday season!!

Minutes from Rockford Horizons October 27, 2009 Meeting

2009-10-29T13:14:00.000-07:00

The Horizons Visioning/Strategic Plan was discussed and the progress reviewed.

Communications:
The community events are being posted on the Town reader board. The community calendar is being circulated in the Town utility bill. It is also on the Horizons blog as well as the Town website. A few copies should be posted throughout Town such as at the Post Office and various businesses. Phil Evans will have a presentation at the November 10th meeting to discuss what he has learned from several broadband providers. A survey will be drafted and sent out to the community to find out the desire for wireless and broadband and how many households can afford it. The Town is currently on a contract for administration of the website. The Horizons blog is being updated more frequently.

Community Center:
More programs were discussed to be housed in a facility. The Horizons group is finalizing paperwork for 501(c)3 status with IRS.

Community Garden:
Ther was discussion about the sort of crops that should be planted next year and those that were not popular. A local contractor will be contacted regarding putting raised beds in one of the garden spots. A greenhouse has been donated which will help get seeds started. The three garden spots will be available for use again next planting season. The farmers market was a success this year and the hope is to have music and cooking demonstrations as a bonus.

Patrick Malone was in attendance and helped us with ideas to get youth involved. One incentive is to get a student involved in the website and other projects such as designing placemats and soliciting for donations from local businesses. They would do this during their senior year and upon entering a college would receive an incentive of $1,000.00 toward their tuition (e.g.). Patrick also gave us an application for Horizons Community Capacity Fund which Vivian P. will complete and send in.

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at the Harvest Moon.

You can become a Certified Money Management Trainer

2009-10-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

The lack of financial education and current economic conditions has created serious financial distress in households throughout the Inland Northwest. Consumer Credit Counseling Services (CCCS)invites you to become a Certified Money Management Trainer (CMMT) who can provide financial education and, ultimately improve lives and the community.

Please join over 100 leaders this year who have taken this training and use it regularly with their clients and customers.

You will be able to assist families:
Assess finances and set goals
Make and keep budgets
Pay down credit and use it wisely
Build savings
Create an acion plan when facing less income
Manage credit reports and improve scores

Additional perks:
Free resources, tools, books for the people you serve
On-going support from CCCS staff and volunteers
Educational credits or CRA credits
Bring the tools home to your co-workers, clients and family

Training will be held:
Coeur d' Alene, ID on Friday, November 20th
9:30-3:30
First Presbyterian Church, Fireside Room
521 E Lakeside Ave
OR
Spokane, WA on Thursday, December 17th
9:00-3:00
Northtown Office Building, Columbia Room
4407 N Division St, Suite 814

Cost for this training is $45 per person-lunch is provided
Please call 509.242.4205 for more information, special accomodations or if you would like to apply for a scholarship.

Space is limited---Register Today!

2010 U. S. Census is coming to your house soon!

2009-10-28T10:40:00.000-07:00

The 2010 U. S. Census forms will be mailed on March 15, 2010. Every household will be given the short form with 10 questions to answer. The American Community Survey (the long form) will be sent to an average of 1 in 6 households nationwide.

It is so important to your community, school and you to complete and mail back the form. This gives the Town of Rockford and Freeman School District information regarding such topics as population, median income, education, buildings constructed, and travel time to work. This data is necessary for grants and programs such as free and reduced lunch program. The ability for Rockford to be included in the Horizons program stemmed from this information.

Please send the completed survey form back as soon as you can or the Census takers will either phone or visit your home to gather this needed information. This takes billions of extra dollars to do. So please participate!

Reminders of this important topic will be posted on this blog periodically.

North Palouse Community Food Bank

2009-10-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

The North Palouse Community Food Bank is accessible to all people in need that live in the Rockford, Fairfield, Waverly and Latah area. It is located behind the Fairfield Fire Station on Railroad Street.

The Hours of Operation are as follows:

November 2009
Saturday, November 14th 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Thursday, November 19th 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Saturday, November 28th 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

December 2009
Saturday, December 12th 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Thursday, December 17th 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Saturday, December 26th 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

For emergency needs at times other than scheduled hours of operation, you may call (509) 283-4250 or (509) 844-8551
They will be distributing holidays baskets to many families throughout the area.

Free Yard & Garden Debris Collection Event

2009-10-28T08:01:00.000-07:00

Since outdoor burning is not allowed within the city limits of Rockford, this event allows us to dispose of our leaves, grass, brush and other yard trimmings and it is free!

Collection hours are from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on Saturday, November 7th. The location will be behind the Rockford City Hall.

If you need help hauling your debris, please call the City Hall @ (509) 291-4716 and someone will assist you in loading and will also take it to the collection site.

This is one big step in making Rockford an attractive community!

Community Halloween Events

2009-10-23T08:51:00.000-07:00

Here are suggestions for a safe and fun Halloween:

The McIntosh Grange (located at the corner of 1st & Lake Streets) is having a Halloween Party. It will be from 5:30 to 8:00 pm and will have many activities. This includes a cake walk, games, treats and prizes.

The Rockford Lions Club is hosting their annual Halloween Bon Fire in the park from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Roasting hot dogs and hot cider and cocoa will be provided.

These events are free to the community!

Community Book Club

2009-10-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

The following is a summary about the "Mayors (Community) Book Clubs" program which has been successful in several cities. The article is from the September 28, 2009 issue of the Nation Cities Weekly:

The project is an effort to develop community-wide early literacy. It is to promote school readiness among children well before first grade. Special components may include free and new books and literacy materials for families of young and school-age children, parent education classes, efforts to expand access to community-based early education resources and public events at which a community leader reads a book to children.

A brainstorming session for the Community Literacy Plan occurs to develop goals which focuses on strengthening local partnerships with schools, public libraries and community partners and developing methods to reach more children in the community while involving parents and older children.

Reading can be used as a means for problem-solving. With older students as mentors, they will be reading to young children and serve as peer leaders on such topics as the importance of helping others, staying healthy (preventing the flu, e.g.)and preparing for and succeeding in school and college. Senior citizens are also encouraged to read with children.

Since there is no library located in Rockford with the closest one being five miles away in Faifield, this would be a great community effort to engage everyone in encouraging and helping our youth to succeed in school and also become future leaders. A lending library is curently being created through the Rockford Community Center (RCC) group. Stay tuned for more information.

Presentation at the Inland Northwest Partners 2009 Fall Meeting

2009-09-30T13:27:00.000-07:00

The meeting was held at the Coeur d' Alene Casino Resort Hotel on September 24, 2009

The theme of the event was "Revitalizing Your Community through Planning, Participation & Partnerships". The topic of discussion was economic development around the globe and in the Pacific Northwest.

The keynote speaker was David Beurle from Australia, who invented the "Future Games" and presented it to the audience. Note: several WSU Extension staff and Horizons program participants (including Nan Konishi from Rosalia and Rockford's Micki Harnois) have been trained to present this great "poverty reduction" tool to Horizon members.

Three Horizon communities gave presentations on the projects that the Northwest Area Foundation brought to their residents. These include Bonners Ferry, Northport, and the Coeur d' Alene Reservation.

Micki Harnois gave a glimpse into what is happening with the Rockford Horizons program from its introduction one year ago. She discussed the three areas of emphasis from the Strategic Plan. Horizon Leaders Mary Lou Benson, Vivian Plank and Keith Wigen also attended.

Report Out Meeting

2009-09-30T12:52:00.000-07:00

Minutes:
The report out event was held on September 10th in the Rockford City Park. About forty people were in attendance including 10 youth from the community. A delicious BBQ pulled pork meal was catered by Fredneck's Saloon & Beanery. A special award was given to Keith Wigen for all his work and expertise with the three community gardens.

The Strategic Action Plan Worksheet was finalized and introduced to the community by the Horizons Leadership Team.

The Rockford Community Center project is close to receiving 501c3 non-profit status. A few small items are needed by the state to complete this.

The administrator of the blog will be keeping it up to date.

Regular meetings are held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday at 6:30pm in the Harvest Moon Restaurant.

Please Come!

Poverty Action's Vote Campaign

2009-09-30T11:11:00.000-07:00

Taking it to the Streets in 2009
Poverty Action Vote Campaign is Back

This fall Poverty Action is hitting the streets to register newly eligible voters.

We hope you'll join us as we pound the pavement across the state. For more details or to get involved, check out the Poverty Action website or contact Poverty Action organizer Kate Baber.

Building Assets, Strengthening Communities
Join us November 5 and 6, 2009 at the Tacoma Convention Center for a conference with the Washington State Asset Building Coalition.

Register Today:
http://www.frbsf.org/community/resources/2009/1105/index.html

It is important for individuals and families to have access to asset building and financial planning in order to move out of poverty. Poverty Action and the Asset Building Coalition have led the charge in asset building advocacy, passing and funding the Individual Development Account program in 2005 and the Working Families Rebate in 2008. We are excited to announce the Survive and Thrive: Building Assets, Strengthening Communities conference, the largest statewide gathering around asset building. This conference is dedicated to helping improve the financial lives of low and moderate income Washingtonians--promoting financial education, home ownership, savings and smart borrowing.

Asset building strategies include:
-Increasing financial education, savings and individual development accounts
-Expanding home and small business ownership
-Increasing the availability of Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and free tax prep
-Providing programs to assist in credit repair and avoiding high-cost loans

Why join this conference?
-Weigh in about how asset building could help improve your financial situation
-Plan ways to expand financial opportunities for people with lower incomes
-Meet fellow state and national leaders as we learn together about the growing field of asset building
-Join the largest statewide gathering around asset development

Register Today:
The Survive and Thrive: Building Assets,Strengthening Communities conference on November 5th & 6th will inspire and educate you to start or expand an asset-building initiative in your community.

Scholarships available:
To apply, please send a paragraph describing why you need a scholarship to
pknox@washingtonabc.org

Strengthen your voice in the state capitol. Making change depends on you. Poverty Action works to eliminate the root causes of poverty with real solutions. As the state's largest anti-poverty organization working to influence decisions in Olympia, we work to ensure everyone can have a better future. Become a member today and help us continue to achieve crucial victories.

Rockford Horizons Poverty Reduction Project

2009-09-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

2009-2012 STRATEGIC POVERTY REDUCTION PLAN
On Tuesday, June 23rd twenty-three Rockford residents and interested persons gathered at the Rockford City Park to develop a long-range poverty reduction plan for the Horizons project. Horizons is a project of the Northwest Area Foundation in partnership with WSU Extension. Below is a very brief summary of that Visioning Session and our proposed action strategies. Their success is entirely dependent upon your direct involvement. Please join us as we move forward toward implement.

Background
As a requirement of the Foundation and the program, the Horizons Leadership Group kicked-off the planning process by conducting a community-wide survey during May. That information was tabulated and brought forward at our June 23rd Visioning session. During that session, participants were asked to identify the best possible poverty reduction strategies in three areas: individual asset development, community capacity and public policy. A total of 10 strategies were evaluated, voted upon and prioritized. The final step involved the Leadership Group identifying those that were most likely to succeed and then organized them into either short-term, intermediate term or long-term for purposes of implementation.

Plan Content
The months of July and August were spent by Horizons volunteers organizing these strategies, writing them up into a Strategic Action Plan, of which this is the Summary, and then sharing and promoting them. As mentioned above, here are the Rockford Horizons Poverty Reduction Strategies;

Short-Term (2009-2010):
-Grow a flourishing community garden
-Improved nutrition and food quality in the community
-Create/update Community Calendar
-Identify wireless/broadband customer base
-Create community access center
-Sponsor venues to show what town wants and will support
through a "floating" center
-Create the Rock Creek Internet Cafe

Intermediate-Term (2010-2011):
-Educate people to use garden produce in nutritious and
affordable ways and to preserve the surplus
-Create/expand town website
-Identify wireless/broadband suppliers
-Keep Horizons Blog up-to-date

Long-Term (2011-2012):
-Grow surplus food to be given to area food bank to help others
and to sell at Farmers Market
-Negotiate a mutually agreeable broadband/wireless contract
-Create a town placemat
-Plan, finance, build/buy our own community center building

As you can see, many of these strategies are ongoing and
need to be monitored and evaluated for success. Most also require meaningful partnerships with other community/county groups and organizations. As a living document, this plan should be reviewed annually and strategies reprioritized.

Next Steps
Now that we have an adopted Strategic Action Plan we need to recruit volunteers and begin implementing it. To support our efforts, the Northwest Area Foundation will make a direct financial investment and WSU Extension will help design necessary training and techinical assistance input.
In order for Rockford to successfully secure a remaining $3,000 training grant along with an additional $10,000 project grant, we need your active support and involvement. And now!
So we need your help! Please consider which of these action projects excite you and how you'd like to help make it a reality. Please contact Todd (at 291-4601), MaryLou at (291-3146), Vivian (at 291-3722) or Micki (at 291-3621) if you'd like to volunteer OR attend any of our monthly meetings on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays beginning at 6:30pm at the Harvest Moon Restaurant.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

2009-09-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

Horizons Leadership Team Meeting
We are meeting Tuesday evening in the back room of the Harvest Moon Restaurant at 6:30 pm.Everyone from Rockford and the surrounding area are welcome to attend. Please get involved with our Horizon's program. We are recruiting new members for the Leadership Team. If you would like to have a voice and gain greater understanding about our Horizon's program, please attend. We have monies for elder and child care available if needed. A light meal will be provided. Please contact Todd at (509) 291-4601 for more information.

Stategic Poverty Reduction Plan (2009-2012)

2009-09-21T14:23:00.000-07:00

The following is a summary of the visioning sessions which identify the strategies that were most likely to succeed.

Short Term (2009-2010)
Grow a flourishing community garden
Improved nutrition and food quality in the community
Create/update community calendar
Identify wireless/broadband customer base
Create community access center
Sponsor venues to show what town wants and will support through a
"floating" center
Create the Rock Creek Internet Cafe

Intermediate Term (2010-2011)
Educate people to use garden produce in nutritious and affordable ways and to
preserve the surplus
Create/expand town website
Identify wireless/broadband suppliers
Keep Horizons Blog up-to-date

Long Term (2011-2012)
Grow surplus food to be given to area food bank to help others and for
sale at Farmers Market
Negotiate a mutually agreeable boradband/wireless contract
Create a town placemat
Plan, finance, build/buy our own community center building

Community BBQ was a Big Success

2009-09-21T12:18:00.000-07:00

The Horizons Community BBQ that was held in the Park on September 10th was attended by over 40 residents. All ages were represented and the food was great! Pete Abbey, manager of Fredneck's Beanery & Saloon (a local business) catered the event and served yummy pulled pork, coleslaw, beans and cornbread. Nobody went away hungry!
The Horizons team presented a brief summary of the proposed Poverty Reduction Strategic Plan and received valuable comments and additions from those in attendance. This information will all be evaluated in developing the long-range plan.

Southeast Spokane County Fair coming soon!

2009-09-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

This weekend, September 25th through 27th is the Southeast Spokane County Fair in Rockford. It is a smaller country fair with all the activities and attractions of the larger fairs but with a hometown feel. There will be great entertainment, food sold by local nonprofit organizations, a carnival, animals, a parade, horse show and other fun events. Please go to the Fair website:www.sespokanecountyfair.org for more information. The admission is free!

1st volunteer to join blog

2009-08-24T21:39:00.000-07:00

Linda Jones, native of Rockford, is the first volunteer to come forward to be trained by WSU assistants, so she can add news from Rockford Historical Society to the blog.

Horizons communication and education team's goal is to partner with a volunteer from each of Rockford's organizations, clubs and businesses who will take the free training and become blog-authors for their fellow members.

With the help of volunteers Rockford Community's Horizons blog will become a powerful venue, and help reduce all aspects of poverty, no matter any particular definition of the term.

Communication is key to working together toward a common goal and community residents use their blog for local news, etc., because in some way or another, it's all tied together in efforts to increase leadership and reduce poverty. The only thing the blog may not be used for is personal gain (soliciting funds, etc).

Everyone is welcome to visit other Horizons communities' blogs, to see the different ways each one benefits. You'll find links to them here, http://horizons.wsu.edu/project/communityindex.html.

Please contact Micki Harnois (mickiharnois@gmail.com), Vivian Plank "Vivian Plank" (<VPlank@bannerbank.com>), or Mona Vanek (MT Scribbler <mtscribbler@air-pipe.com>) if you'd like to join Linda, become blog-author for a civic organization, business or church, and make this blog unique.

Mona Vanek

END OF SUMMER ACTIVITIES

2009-08-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

What a great car show the Rockford Lion's club held last Saturday, August 22nd. There were around 90 cars, pickups and a motorcycle in the City park. Participants said that for the first time for this kind of show, it was very organized and alot of fun. Good job!

Speaking of alot of fun, this is the last Thursday for the "Movies in the Park" series as school starts next week. At 6:30pm there will be free hot dogs available and the movie "Sandlot" will start at 8:30pm. Remember there will be free popcorn and pop.

The Wednesday night basketball in the park will continue until it gets too cold.

The Farmer's market will be on going until September 19th. There is alot of fresh produce available from the three community gardens.

The Horizon's group is now developing the plans to continue with the community gardens in the future. Suggestions that you may have will be appreciated-such as types of crop, a gleaning program, etc.
The Rockford website is continually being updated at www.rockfordwa.com. Josh and Andrew are doing well as are webmasters.
The Rockford Community Center (RCC) group meets on the first Monday of the month in the Harvest Moon and with the help of the Horizon's committee are diligently drafting plans on the future of this project. Various programs are being researched that will be a benefit to the community such as a day care, lending library, computer lab, tutoring, veteran's mobile medical clinic, youth activites, and meeting rooms. Once a location is established a community building will be available for all to use.

MONEY SAVING IDEAS

2009-08-14T07:26:00.000-07:00

I was recently given two websites to look at that offer ideas on saving money on groceries and other living expenses. They are www.frugalchicliving.blogspot.com and www.yearofplenty.org and are local websites. This is a major resource for low income familes. If you know someone who is in need and doesn't own a computer, please share this information with them. When the Rockford Community Center is in a building, a bulletin board with this sort of information will be valuable. If you know of other helpful websites, please share.

Candidate Forum Recap

2009-08-12T10:07:00.000-07:00

The Candidate Forum, hosted by MacIntosh Grange at the grange hall last night was a huge success, in spite the small percentage of registered voters attending. A number of Horizons' members attended.

The McIntosh Grange did a great job in organizing the event, and candidates were unanimous in thanking those who came. Moderator, Kevin Fricke was neutral and fair while seven candidates for council had a chance to give their personal statements and answer questions from the audience.

Candidates are:
Council Position #1
Larry Van Every
Howard Brutschy
Stan Seehorn (did not attend Forum)

Council Position #2
Steve Meyers
Thomas Smith

Mayor
Micki Harnois
Gary Wagner

Written questions from the floor were asked, with each candidate being allowed three minutes for their response. Several Horizons' members were among those submitting written questions.

A question regarding poverty in Rockford brought varied replies from those asked. Despite notable actives by citizens of Rockford and the surrounding area involved in the Horizons program for nearly a year, when asked if poverty exists in Rockford three of the candidates, Steve Myers, Larry Van Every and Thomas Smith, felt that poverty does not exist here.

Myers and Van Every claim poverty is only a "state of mind," and they voiced strong opinions that people remain in poverty by choice, rather than by working to lift themselves out of poverty.

Each pointed out that statistics generally are touted to serve a purpose, instead of being an accurate statement of affairs. Van Every said Rockford is a community of spirit and that poverty results when people "choose to be poor of spirit." Rockford provides the ability to be at peace with neighbors, he said, and "Crime will not come if there is no market." He appealed to every citizen to do his or her part to circumvent the market.

Mayor pro-tem Micki Harnois feels that elected leaders of the Town of Rockford must recognize that a sure sign of poverty is when decision makers do not acknowledge that a percentage of local citizens remain jobless, have low income, lack computer accessibility, have low self-esteem, and have no community facility or location to access resources that can help them improve their chances of joining the labor force that provides decent wages.

She also mentioned funding to continue the two debris-chipping days the town has provided since Spokane County's burn ban affected area residents.

A need for bus transportation to and from Spokane was acknowledged by most of the candidates. Partnering with the Coeur d'Alene Tribe to get Casino buses to stop, or with Idaho City Link buses, could be explored. Myers said he doesn't see any feasible outlook.

Maintaining the closeness of community residents and the spirit of cooperation among them is high priority for Thomas Smith, as it is for all of the candidates. Smith hopes to work on cleaning up neglected areas in the town. Myers told of efforts (so far unsuccessful) to accomplish that. He also praised St. John's success with senior retirement housing.

Responses to questions about Rockford's website were positive, and only one member felt business should pay to be listed. When asked if town ordinances can be on the website, replies were split. A couple members thought the ordinances are too numerous and space consuming. Van Every, who has a background in website design, said it would be a simple matter to link to them. Mayor Wagner said Town Council minutes couldn't be put on the website until after being approved.

Mayor Wagner, who said that during his terms as a public official over $5 million in grants have been utilized for improving the town's infrastructure, expressed the need to grow the population by having more houses. Candidate Howard Brutschy said the need wasn't for more housing, but certainly more job opportunities through attracting more businesses is desirable. He favors controlled growth, and is active on the Planning and Zoning board and the South East Spokane County Fair board.

In discussing crime and law enforcement and the financial constraints of county law enforcement, all believe community members will be best served by participating in S.C.O.P.E. and Neighborhood Block Watch efforts.

Council Position #1 is the only position open for voting in the primary election, as there are three candidates. The two candidates that receive the most votes will be included in the general election along with Council Position #2 and the Mayor position.

MacIntosh Grange members plan to hold another Candidate forum in October.

It's all happening this week!

2009-08-08T23:44:00.000-07:00

Monday, August 10th, Rockford Community Center,6 p.m. Harvest Moon Banquet Room. Todd Hart, President, Ph: 291-4601.

Monday, August 10, Candidates Forum,7 p.m. McIntosh Grange. Contact, Susan Hegney, Ph: 995-7001, Carol Evans, Ph: 535-1165.

Tuesday, August 11th, Horizons, 6:30 p.m. Harvest Moon Banquet Room.
Wednesday, August 12th, 8:00-9:30 p.m. Basketball in the Park.

Thursday, August 13th, S.E. Spokane County Fair meeting, 7 p.m. Harvest Moon Banquet Room

Thursday, August 13th, DUSK. Movie in the Park

Saturday, August 15th, Farmers' & Flea Market in the park. 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Saturday, August 15th, Crochet class, 10:00 a.m. - noon, Harvest Moon Banquet room or at Farmers' & Flea Market in the Park

RAINY MOVIE NITE IN ROCKFORD

2009-08-07T12:32:00.000-07:00

Last nite was the "Movie in the Park". Due to lightening, thunder and eventually torrential rain, the main Fair building bacame the local theater. The projector screen was hung on a "make shift" wall and 75+ people of all ages sat on benches and lawn chairs and watched a great movie- "Race to Witch Mountain". Free popcorn and pop was served at intermission. Great community teamwork was performed to make this great family event happen. Rain or shine-we will still have Thursday "Movie Nite".

NEIGHBORHOOD BLOCK WATCH PROGRAM

2009-08-05T14:07:00.000-07:00

On July 30th a meeting was held regarding information about a Rockford Neighborhood Block Watch program. Spokane Deputy Sheriff Travis Pendell gave an excellent presentation on home security, internet fraud, and the program. SCOPE officers were there to offer assistance as this program is affiliated with their department. About 10 adults and 10 kids were present.

You will notice at the entrance to Rockford coming east from SR 27 and from the south on SR 278 (from Idaho) there is a sign that welcomes you to Rockford and that we are a "drug free" community with neighbor watching neighborhood. The Block Watch program is the action portion of the sign. Neighborhood blocks are created where you know your neighbor's name as well as their families' , street address and phone numbers. If you have to make a 911 call for an emergency you will have the information available. Those signs with the blue eye will be posted in your neighborhood where you feel it is the most effective.

In regard to home security, if a homeowner is going to be leaving their home vacant for awhile (snowbirds, e.g.), they could hire a teen in town to keep an eye on your home, shovel the walk and driveway, gather their newspapers, etc. It gives them a responsible task as well as some money.

There will be an organizational meeting for the Neighborhood Block Watch program on Thursday, August 27th at 6:00pm in the park. Banner Bank will also be serving hot dogs and another popular movie will be shown at dusk. Hope to see you there!

CANDIDATE FORUM

2009-08-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

There will be a candidate forum for those persons who are running for a Rockford City Council position and for you-a citizen! This will be held on August 10th at 7:00pm in the McIntosh Grange in Rockford. The candidates will give their opening statements and an opportunity will be given for you to ask questions. Voters will not receive a "Voter's Pamphlet" this year from the Elections Department due to financial reasons. You can search this information online at http://wei.secstate.wa.gov/spokane/Pages/onlineVotersGuide.aspx. Voter's registration forms can be obtained at the Rockford City Hall. We want to express our appreciation to the Grange for having this event and hope to see you there!

HORIZONS COMMUNITY PROJECTS UPDATE

2009-07-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

Community Website-It is up and running and can be viewed at http://www.rockfordwa.com/. Josh Grandinetti and Andy Coumont are doing a great job as the webmasters and are entering new data as it becomes available.
Community Gardens-They are producing a great crop and are being picked by the gardeners for their use and also for those in need who can not get fresh produce on a regular basis. Some items are being sold at the Saturday Farmers Market with proceeds going into the Rockford Community Center (RCC) fund. At the closing of the market each week, perishable produce is delivered to low-income families.
Rockford Community Center (RCC)-Even though no building or facility has been designated as the town's community the fund is still being maintained. Eventually the hope is to have this money go toward a building as a small portion of a down payment, matching funds if a grant becomes available or future facility maintenance. Programs targeting senior social activities, a lending library, and a computer lab are currently being established so when a facility becomes available the programs can opperate in a central location. Income from the Farmers Market and donations from organizations and individuals are going directly to the RCC fund. Soon we will have 501C 3 status for those interested in tax-deductible gifts.

STRATEGIC PLANNING: A Vision For Our Future

2009-07-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

What a great time for us to be planning for our great town of Rockford! Elections are coming up and the Horizons group is working on a strategic plan that will better our community. These two events go hand in hand, don't they? Healthy decisions make a healthy place to live! Remember that this is your community and the place you have decided to possibly raise your family or to retire. If you want to get the most out of a community experience, join us in the park on September 10th @ 6:30 for the Horizons BBQ. With your help, in 6 months we can celebrate an awesome community that you want and planned for.

URGENT ALERT re: Safe and Drug Free Schools funding

2009-07-26T09:13:00.001-07:00

Dear Safe and Drug Free Schools Supporter

On Friday, July 17th, the Full House Appropriations Committee voted to eliminate the State Grants portion of the Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities (SDFSC) program. The Senate Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Subcommittee on Appropriations is tentatively scheduled to mark up its version of the bill that contains funding for this program on July 28th.

Please take five minutes TODAY! Phone the members of your congressional delegation (both senators and your representative) by calling the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121 and asking for your member’s office. (If you don’t know who the members of your congressional delegation are, you can find out by going to http://capwiz.com/cadca/home/ and entering your zip code.)

Senator Patty Murray (Ph: 202-224-2621; Fax: 202 224-0238

Senator Maria Cantwell (Ph: 202 224 3441; Fax: 202 228-0514

Representative, Cathy McMorris-Rodgers (Ph: 202 225-2006; Fax: 202 225-3392

Email to elected officials must go through their websites:
Senator Patty Murray, http://www.murray.senate.gov/email/index.cfm

Senator Maria Cantwell, http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/contact/

Representative, Cathy McMorris-Rodgers , http://mcmorris.house.gov/?sectionid=82&sectiontree=4,82.

Please deliver the following message:

- I understand that the Full House Appropriations Committee voted to eliminate the State Grants portion of the Safe and Drug Free Schools program

- The House Report says it would rather concentrate funding on targeted interventions, funded through the national programs portion of the Safe and Drug Free Schools program

- This is a huge problem and a gigantic mistake because the national programs gives very large grants to a very limited number of local educational agencies who will not be able to sustain these grants when the grant period is over

- In addition, over 90% of school districts, including mine, DON’T receive money from the national programs and probably never will

- Therefore, if the State Grants portion of the Safe and Drug Free Schools program is eliminated and there will be no prevention infrastructure in place in the vast majority of schools in the country, including ours, to provide K-12 students with messages and effective programming to counter emerging and embedded drug trends as well as bullying and violence prevention issues

- Please tell your boss that it is critical that the funding for the Safe and Drug Free Schools program be maintained and we need their support

*** This request was sent by Kelly LieupoDirector of Public PolicyCommunity Anti-Drug Coalitions of America625 Slaters Lane, Suite 300Alexandria, VA 22314klieupo@cadca.orgTelephone: (800) 542-2322 ext. 241Facsimile: (703) 706-0565

2009-07-25T22:20:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 27th, Youth Group, 6:30 p.m. Rockford Community Church.

Monday, July 27th, Lions Club, 7 p.m., Harvest Moon Banquet Room. Craig Swanson, President, Ph: 291-4313

Tuesday, July 28, Summer Swim bus to Tekoa, departs 11:45 a.m., Rockford Park. $2. Returns swimmers to the park at approximately 4 p.m.

Wednesday, July 29th, Planning & Zoning, 6 p.m., City Hall. Contact Darlene LaShaw, Clerk Ph: 291-4716

Thursday, July 30th, Free Movies in the Park, dusk, Rockford Park. Free soda and popcorn courtesy of Rockford businesses. Help with cleanup appreciated.

Thursday, July 30th, Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 p.m., United Methodist Church Parsonage. Contact Todd, Ph: 291-4601

Thursday, July 30th, Block Watch, 7 p.m. in the Park with Deputy Sheriff, Travis Pendell

Thursday, July 30, Freeman School District, School Board Meeting, 5 p.m. MS Library

Saturday, August 1st, Farmer's & Flea Market in the Park, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Saturday, August 1st, Crochet Club, 10 a.m.-noon Harvest Moon Banquet Room (or alongside Farmer's & Flea Market in the Park.) Contact Vivian Plank, Ph: 291-3722

Spokane physicians voice opposition

2009-07-24T15:34:00.001-07:00

In an unprecedented move, physicians and staff at Heart Clinics Northwest are urging people to contact federal representatives and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and tell them how damaging the currently-in-process President's Health Care proposals for reform would be to patient's medical care.

"The proposed reimbursement schedule is devastating to the care of all patients," says the July 15,2009 open letter sent to HCN patients. "Tell them (federal representatives & CMS) how damaging this would be to your care and they absolutely can't implement these cost reductions."

Heart Clinic Northwest foresees a dramatic decrease in:
Access to care
Substantial reduction in ability to provide high quality care
Probable future reduction in quantity of care.

Comments will be received at CMS no later than August 31, 2009 at 5:p.m. Eastern time and will ONLY reach the proper CMS department at the following:

Electronically submitted comments: http://www.regulations.gov/fdmspublic/component/main?main=SubmitComment&o=09000064809f0082.

Written comments sent via US Mail:
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Department of Health and Human Services
Attention: CMS-1413-PP.O.
Box 8013Baltimore, MD 21244-8013.

By express or overnight mail:
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Department of Health and Human Services
Attention: CMS-1413-P
Mail Stop C4-26-05, 7500 Security Blvd.
Baltimore, MD 21244-1850.

Email to elected officials must go through their websites:
Senator Patty Murray (Ph: 202-224-2621; Fax: 202 224-0238; website: http://www.murray.senate.gov/.)
Senator Maria Cantwell (Ph: 202 224 3441; Fax: 202 228-0514; website: http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/.)
Representative, Cathy McMorris-Rodgers (Ph: 202 225-2006; Fax: 202 225-3392; website: http://www.mcmorrisrodgers.house.gov/.)

E-mail forms: Senator Patty Murray, http://www.murray.senate.gov/email/index.cfm

Senator Maria Cantwell, http://www.cantwell.senate.gov/contact/

Representative, Cathy McMorris-Rodgers , http://mcmorris.house.gov/?sectionid=82&sectiontree=4,82.

CMS is responsible for reimbursement to hospitals and physicians, and will only be open for comment until August 31, 2009 on proposed cuts in reimbursement for medical care (physician services, outpatient procedures, and imaging services.)

Heart Clinics Northwest is a major provider of cardiac care in the northwest, and advise that "the proposed cuts would amount in total to between a 25% to as much as 50% reduction ... the reduction will be superimposed on an already implemented 15%-20% reduction in the current fiscal year. Our practice cannot sustain this insult and if they are implemented January 1, 2010 as proposed, the impact to you, as a patient, will be radical."

"The risk to you is tremendous and the outcome potentially devastating." HCN wrote.

Social Networking Tips

2009-07-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

As rural communities get faster Internet services, social networking increases, bringing opportunities to increase incomes. I have a friend who earns $90 an hour for as little as two hours a day with social networking. However, the ways social networking can endanger the unwary increases, too.

If you're new to social networking (or even if you're not), check out Debra Littlejohn Shinder's article, "10 Ways to Stay Out of Trouble when you Post to Social Networking Sites" on the TechRepublic site at http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/10things/?p=851.

Debra is a Microsoft MVP specializing in enterprise security and CEO of TACteam (Trainers, Authors & Consultants). A former police officer/criminal justice instructor, she has written or contributed to over 20 books and hundreds of articles for print and online publications. Debra is highly respected for her virtual-crime fighting expertise. Her titles include MVP/Security, Editor, WXPnews (http://www.wxpnews.com/), Editor, VistaNews (http://www.vistanews.com/). http://www.debshinder.com/, and Tech Blog: http://deb-tech.spaces.live.com/.

In "Throwing Sheep in the Boardroom," authors Matthew Fraser and Soumitra Dutta wrote, "The generation entering the workforce today - and entering boardrooms everywhere - is fully engaged with social networking and its uses. Rather than feeling threatened and paranoid, today's business leaders need to understand this phenomenon, accept that it won't go away, and embrace its power in the world of business."

Give serious thought to how you use this powerful new medium. Although social networking is increasing at phenominal speed in the business world and vastly enhancing the work-a-day world, it warrants the time to learn about its many uses.

Start at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_network to learn more. And be sure to read, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blogging.

On the bookshelf, "Throwing Sheep in the Boardroom" is the first comprehensive book written for a wide audience about the Web 2.0 social networking revolution. ... www.throwingsheep.com/.

This Week in Rockford

2009-07-20T11:46:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 20th, Youth Group, 6:30 p.m. Rockford Community Church.

Monday, July 20th, McIntosh Grange, 7.p.m. McIntosh Grange. Contact, Susan Hegney, Ph: 995-7001, Carol Evans, Ph: 535-1165

Tuesday, July 21, Summer Swim bus to Tekoa, departs 11:45 a.m., Rockford Park. $2. Returns swimmers to the park at approximately 4 p.m.

Wednesday, July 22nd, Town Council meeting, 7 p.m. City Hall. Contact Darlene LaShaw, Clerk Ph: 291-4716

Thursday, July 23rd, Free Movies in the Park, dusk, Rockford Park.
Free soda and popcorn courtesy of Rockford businesses. Help with cleanup appreciated.

Thursday, July 23rd, S.E. Spokane County Fair meeting, 7 p.m. Harvest Moon Banquet Room

Saturday, July 25th, Crochet Club, 10 a.m.-noon Harvest Moon Banquet Room (or alongside Farmer's & Flea Market in Rockford Park.) Contact Vivian Plank, Ph: 291-3722

Saturday, July 25th, Farmer's & Flea Market in Rockford Park, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Education opportunities

2009-07-15T16:09:00.000-07:00

Class schedules at Spokane Community College, Spokane Falls Community College, and Institute for Extended Learnging are no longer printed and mailed; go online to www.ccs.spokane.edu and click on class schedules to find fall course offerings, on campus and online. Fall quarter starts September 21, 2009.

The deadline for winter quarter financial ais applications is Nov. 30, 2009.

College prep classes and GEDs are available through the Institute for Extended Learning. Visit www.iel.spokane.edu/abe/ or call 509 533-4600.

If exercise, art, personal enrichment or skill-building classes interest you, classes for seniors, Boomers and everyone else -- CCS noncredit lifelong learning classes are for you. Go to www.ccs.spokane.ed, and click on Class Scheules, and check Noncredit Classes to see what's happening fall quarter.

If transportation is a problem, or you'd like to carpool, please make a comment to this post in the space provided.

Community Gardens thrive

2009-07-15T10:40:00.000-07:00

Update from Keith & Linda Wigen, Community Garden team leaders.

"Dear Gardners, The gardens are in and growing well. Thanks to all who helped to plant them. There are three in all -- one next to the Catholic Church, one next to Kit and Dell Stevenson's house (Lake & Maple), and one on the highway going toward Worley, next to Lonny and Linda Thomas's house (A & 1st St.)

"Now that they are growing, we need weeders to keep them in good shape. Please do your share. We won't be setting up schedules for weeding, but are putting you on your honor to take an hour or so a week at your convenience and at the garden of your choice to hoe or pull weeds. Also, in the garden near the church, the lettuce and radishes are ready for picking. Please take what you can use.

"On Thursday, August 6th, we will be having a "weed & feed" at the garden next to the Catholic Church. Please join us. Bring a potluck dish to share and we'll weed awhile and then we'll eat. It will be a good chance to get to know each other better and also to share ideas. We'll meet at six o'clock.

"Thanks for your interest in our gardening project and your continued support. As before, if you have questions, you can call Keith or Linda Wigen at 291-3602, or Todd Hart at 291-4601.

"Your fellow gardeners. "

Swim bus Tuesday not Thursday

2009-07-14T22:48:00.000-07:00

The bus, taking kids to swim at Tekoa, leaves Rockford Park at 11:45 a.m. on Tuesdays, not on Thursdays as reported earlier.

I'm sorry for passing along the wrong day, published first in the Rockford News that's sent out with monthly utility bills to homeowners.

Horizons meeting moved

2009-07-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

Word just arrived that tonight's 6:30 p.m. meeting of Horizons Poverty Project, scheduled to meet at the Harvest Moon Banquet Room has been moved to St. Joseph's Parish Hall, due to the Harvest Moon Banquet Room being booked for the evening.