Along with the Birthday Calendar, Camp Jim would like to make a recipe book! I’ve only gotten a few recipes, and will have to resort to kids choosing from cookbooks if no one else pipes up. That would be OK, but we’d rather have some good soul food in our Camp Jim recipe Collaboration. So send in your recipes, by email to sara.milligan@colorado.edu.
Thank You, Sara Milligan Program Director Camp Jim, (720) 561-6023

This week, Camp Jimtown will be collecting recipes for our recipe book. We are making a recipe book for to sell at the Craft Fair in December. Please email me if you have any ideas for recipes, anything as far as baked goods, breakfasts, deserts, drinks, party favors, dips, salads, suppers, all ideas are welcome! We will start the decorations and put-together this Wednesday, so ASAP get the recipes in!

Thank you and have a beautiful day!
Sara Milligan, Camp Jimtown Program Director
720-561-6023 vm
720-480-0422 cell
sara.milligan@colorado.edu

Any Moms (or Dads I guess)available to assist with the childrens photo shoot this morning at the school ? Starting at 8:00. Thanks !

EXPERIENCE ANOTHER RARE PROFESSIONAL PUPPET SHOW IN THE MOUNTAINS!

Welcome Mark Hellerstein of Puppets & Things on Strings
THIS Wednesday, November 11th
1-2 p.m. at Jamestown School

Featuring...a handmade portable puppet theater, a 45-minute show incorporating marionettes, hand puppets, ventriloquism, audience interaction, and side-splitting comedy!

ALL AGES WELCOME (especially the little tikes)!

Free for Camp Jim members or a $5 suggested donation per family for all others. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Hi Everybody! we are putting together a list of Birthdays for a special Birthday calendar, so please email your Birthday, your mate's Birthday, your kids' Birthdays, your dogs Birthdays, just get 'em to me by Friday the 13th. Thanks a bunch!
Camp Jimtown
(72o)561-6o23
Sara Milligan, program director.
sara.milligan@colorado.edu

Camp Jimtown would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to Jackie Ashley for contributing her time and effort with us to do some yoga! Good Fun!
~Camp Jim
72o 561 6o23
Sara Milligan, Program Director

We are ALL invited to Gold Hill School's annual FUNdraiser:

!!! FALL FIESTA !!!
Sunday, November 15th
5-10 p.m. at Gold Hill Inn

Featuring...a delicious Mexican BUFFET dinner (pick your seating time @ 5, 5:30, 6, or 6:30 p.m.), a tremendous SILENT AUCTION with great items from many local places (bidding 5-8 p.m.), and LIVE MUSIC by the Mary Russell Band (8-10 p.m.)!

Tickets are only $10/adult or $5/child and are available by calling me at (3o3) 545-55o2 or by e-mailing goldhillfallfiesta@yahoo.com

Come dance, eat, bid, and support our neighboring small mountain school!

Many of you have probably heard of the tremendous loss we experienced yesterday.

RIP Sally Rose Williams - Born on Valentine's Day 1999, Died on Halloween 2009 (what a party dog!)

Sally Rose will be laid to rest today at noon up at Rob Koehler's land on Balarat Road. If anyone would like to attend, give me a call at (3o3) 545-55o2 and I will give directions. Our deepest thanks to Buddy and Rob and ALL of the friends who will be helping with this hard, incredibly sad task.

Sally was SO LOVED BY SO MANY in this commUNITY that her KID friends have asked if we will have a funeral for her. Many of these kids grew up with Sally and I respect their need for closure, so we will have a memorial service in Jamestown's Little Park soon for everyone who ever loved and lost their dear, dear pets. All of Sally's doggie friends will be welcome too. More info to follow...

In the meantime, we deeply appreciate EVERY SINGLE KIND WORD, PICTURE, HUG, PHONE CALL, LOVING THOUGHT, AND BIT OF SUPPORT that we have received from all of you.

CALLING ALL TALENTS!!!

Please come and share your talents and interests with the kids of Camp Jimtown and Jamestown School! We are now offering specialized workshops and need our gifted commUNITY members to participate!

Every week, we offer DRAMA CLUB on Tuesdays, ART CLUB on Wednesdays, and FITNESS CLUB on Thursdays, usually from 3:30-5 p.m. If you or anyone you know can come in and lead the children in any of these areas, please contact Laura @ (3o3) 545-55o2. Let us know if you can volunteer your time and expertise or what you would charge for your services, as well as how many sessions your workshop might be, what supplies are needed, etc.

Even if your talent doesn't necessarily apply to these categories, we welcome ANY new areas of learning and we can certainly adapt our schedule accordingly!

Crafters & Artists are especially needed to help us to create items to sell at the upcoming JAM Craft Fair in December. Our many commUNITY musicians, knitters, crocheters, bakers, cooks, storytellers, etc. are always welcome!

WORKSHOP DATES AVAILABLE in 2009:

November 10th, 12th, 17th, 18th, 19th
December 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 9th, 10th, 15th, 16th 17th

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

CALLING ALL CRAFTERS & ARTISTS!

Reserve a spot now at our 14th Annual

JAM HOLIDAY ARTS & CRAFT FAIR
Saturday, December 12th
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
at Jamestown School gym

COST: $20 for an 8 ft. table, $15 for a half-table. Tables and chairs provided. Each crafter is asked to bring a baked item for JAM to sell at the concession stand. Coffee, tea, soups, and chili will also be available.

Donations from our wonderful commUNITY CHEFS & BAKERS will also be gratefully accepted at the event!

This event will be highly publicized and proceeds from table rentals and concession stand will benefit JAM (Jamestown Area Artists & Musicians) and Town Hall improvements.

SET UP: Crafters are invited to set up on Friday night before the show from 6-8 p.m. or doors will be open to crafters at 9 a.m. on Saturday morning. Table locations will be assigned on the first come, first served (with payments received) basis.

CONTACT: Beth @ ( 3 o 3 ) 4 4 4 - 5 o 5 3 for more info or to reserve a table!

BOO!

It's that time of year again and you are all invited to our annual

HALLOWEEN 2009 PARTY
Saturday, SPOOKtober 31st
4:30 p.m. at Jamestown School
ALL AGES WELCOME!

Featuring...costumes, games, prizes, and SURPRISES galore...AH AH AH! Please bring a non-sugared potluck dish or snack to share and a suggested donation of $5 per family to benefit our PTO (Parent-Teacher Organization) Fund.

Trick-or-Treating around Jamestown begins at 6 p.m.!

Our first puppet show was a blast! Special thanks to Jim Loshbaugh for the show and instructionals AND to our beloved Gold Hill drivers, Sue Kidder and Mira Hatland!

Please come to the NEXT PUPPET SHOW on Wednesday, November 11th from 1-2 p.m. at Jamestown School gym featuring Mark Hellerstein of Puppets & Things on Strings performing a 45-minute show incorporating marionettes, hand puppets, ventriloquism, and side-splitting comedy! Free for Camp Jim members or a $5 suggested donation per family for all others. All ages welcome, especially the little tikes! This show will be less instruction and more audience interaction.

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

PUPPET SHOW TOMORROW!!! COME ONE, COME ALL!

We welcome Jim Loshbaugh of A Abracadabra Magic & Puppets to perform 3 mini shows and present a marionette workshop tomorrow, Tuesday, October 13th from 4-5 p.m. at Jamestown School's gym!

ALL AGES WELCOME!

Admission is free for Camp Jim members or a suggested donation of only $5 per family for other commUNITY patrons!

Hope to see you there and once again, THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

EXPERIENCE A RARE PROFESSIONAL PUPPET SHOW IN THE MOUNTAINS!

PLEASE COME...

to see visiting puppetmaster, Jim Loshbaugh, THIS TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13th from 4-5 p.m. at Jamestown School featuring 3 mini shows, hilarious comedy, and a workshop on marionettes.

All ages welcome (especially little tikes!) -- Free for Camp Jim members or $5 suggested donation per family for all others.

We are hoping for a large attendance as Camp Jim has hired this special puppetmaster to share his talents with us! Hope to see you there!

PLEASE JOIN ME & ELISE FOR THIS FUN, LOCAL KID EVENT!!! I'm trying to get a group of us to convoy up there because I think it will be great fun to do with people we know!

ENCHANTED FOREST at Wild Bear Center for Nature Discovery in Nederland next Saturday, October 3rd! Park at Nederland Elementary and take a free shuttle to Mud Lake for the following great fun...

12:30-1:15 = Rosy the Magical Tree Fairy (magic & storytelling)
2-4 p.m. = Wild Okapi Marimba music at a campfire
4:30-6:30 p.m. = Bluegrass at the campfire

BBQ lunch & dinner and TOURS OF THE FOREST occur throughout the day, where the Wild Bear folks dress up as a forest animal to greet the tour, telling about each animal's habitat, etc. and goody bags are given out to each child to collect special treasures from the animals. Also, children's crafts are offered throughout the day! Kids are encouraged to dress up like their favorite forest creature.

TICKETS are CHEAP and available for $7 per person in advance (kids under 2 are free) or $8 per person on that day. Call (3o3) 245-0495 or go to www.wildbear.org to buy tickets or learn more about the event.

Elise and I will leave Jamestown at 11 a.m., so if you're interested in joining, give me a call at (3o3) 545-55o2!

In spite of the rain, hail, and cold, and in true commUNITY fashion, our BAKE SALE raised a whoppin' $339.12 toward a SCHOLARSHIP FUND for families who need after-school childcare, were denied by CCCAP, and can't afford it on their own!!

THANK YOU - THANK YOU - THANK YOU ALL WHO BAKED, BOUGHT, AND DONATED!!!

Special thanks to our beloved commUNITY BAKERS: Catherine Davis, Lulu, Karen A., Sally Hempy, and Beth Brotherton!

Extra special thanks to our precious Camp Jim FAMILY BAKERS: From Jamestown, the Bennink, Bartsch, Andaloro, and Graves families and from Gold Hill, the Kidder-Roberts, Steinmann, Lansky, and Inskeep-Davis families!

We are still accepting donations for this scholarship fund as all future FUNdraisers must go toward Camp Jim's rising program expenses. Please contact Laura @ (3o3) 545-55o2 or send your donation to:

Camp Jimtown
P.O. Box 1
Jamestown, CO 80455

YOUR commUNITY SUPPORT OF OUR MOUNTAIN YOUTH IS DEEPLY APPRECIATED AND IS MAKING AN IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF EACH CHILD!!!

SPECIAL THANKS to Helen Turner for your GENEROUS donation toward our Scholarship Fund for kids who need after-school care and otherwise can't afford it!!! Monetary donations for this important cause will be gratefully accepted this Saturday at our Bake Sale from 12-2 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office or by calling Laura @ (3o3) 545-55o2.

EXTRA SPECIAL THANKS to Karen DeVincenzo, the Bartsch Family, the Bennink Family, Margie Penney, Claire Rocznik, and the Gustke Family for your GENEROUS toy & arts/crafts donations! We always welcome items that are new to us at the program and we greatly appreciate the opportunity to reuse and recycle within our own commUNITY!

As always, THANKS FOR BEING THAT "VILLAGE" THAT RAISES EACH CHILD!

Just a quick friendly reminder of our annual

FALL BAKE SALE
Saturday, September 12th
12-2 p.m. during recycling near Jamestown Post Office

All proceeds will create a SCHOLARSHIP FUND to help kids and families who need after-school childcare, couldn't get State assistance, and can't afford it on their own.

Donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes/pies will be gratefully accepted at the event or by calling Laura @ (3o3) 545-55o2 for pickup arrangements.

commUNITY BAKERS are strongly encouraged to continue sharing your sweet delights with us! We hope to have some vegan and/or gluten-free items available as well.

Please join us by baking, buying, or donating to this important cause and as always, THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR MOUNTAIN YOUTH!

We're at it again with our FALL BAKE SALE coming up on Saturday, September 12th from 12-2 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office during recycling!

This event benefits a SCHOLARSHIP FUND designed for kids who desperately NEED after-school childcare but can't afford it and were denied by CCCAP (Colorado Child Care Assistance Program). There is at least one child in this category and probably more who would like to be part of Camp Jim and would use it if their family could afford to. Please call Laura @ (3o3) 545-55o2 if you can donate to this important cause. Otherwise...

commUNITY BAKERS UNITE! Donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes & pies will be gratefully accepted at the event or by calling the above phone number for pickup arrangements. In the past, we have truly enjoyed the response and delights made by our commUNITY bakers and we hope that everyone can participate either by baking, buying, or donating to this scholarship fund that directly benefits the children.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR MOUNTAIN KIDS!

Please join us for Drama Club's FINAL PERFORMANCE of "ASSIGNMENT: EARTH! How We Can Save The Planet" THIS SATURDAY, June 20th @ 11 a.m. at the Boulder Public Library free of charge!!!

It sure would be great to have a lot of our commUNITY support as we perform in a REAL theater for the general public! Please spread the word and we hope to see you there!

Even us relocated flat-landers track you mountain folks' gyrations via this portal. This continues to provide what I think we are all seeking in some way- a connection of sorts to a community that holds some meaning in our lives, even if we can't directly connect. Keep up with the love and all of the great work.

I still watch this QT also, so yeah, let's make more use of it!

Hi Laura, Hi Sather, Asa, & Riley,
I'm here! We should invite the 8 new kindergartener's parents for next year to join this QT and use it more!!!

Hi Laura,

Thought I'd respond to your post and post a note to you--THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO--you're awesome!

We love you and all of your messages. Its almost like Riley is still in school at the best school on the planet!! Don't stop!

Sather, Asa, & Riley

Does anybody post here anymore? I just noticed that all the messages are mine...it's like I'm writing to myself on my own board!

Is there anybody out there...???

Bet you thought you'd heard the last of DRAMA CLUB...not a chance!

Each semester, we try to explore a different area of drama. Since January, our theme has been "LET'S TAKE IT ON THE ROAD!" whereby we perform in different venues for different audiences.

Hence...the THIRD performance in our series is coming up THIS WEEK!

We invite you to see "ASSIGNMENT: EARTH! How We Can Save The Planet" THIS Friday, May 22nd at 12:30 p.m. in Jamestown's Big Park, where we will also perform for our Gold Hill Elementary friends!

We hope to see you then...but if not...

Mark your calendars and come see the show at Boulder Public Library (wow, we've hit the BIGTIME!) on Saturday, June 20th @ 11 a.m.

All shows are free for all ages as a gift to our beloved commUNITY!

I am so pleased and proud to announce that Camp Jimtown is opening a childcare program at Gold Hill Elementary School next Fall, called "Camp Jimtown At Gold Hill!"
 
I expect that both the Jamestown and Gold Hill sites will be open 30 hours per week from 12-6 p.m. to accommodate the many kindergarteners at both locations. Hence, from now until Fall, I am seeking qualified employees to work at both programs, as well as a caregiver for my daughter, Elise daily from 3-6:30 p.m. beginning in the Fall.
 
I am telling you this NOW in hopes that you can let me know if YOU are interested in working at Camp Jim OR kidsitting Elise, OR if you know of anyone who might be interested in either of these positions.
 
It may be premature, but I just wanted to plant these seeds of change for you all to bear in mind in the not-so-distant future!
 
This door of opportunity would not have been opened unto me were it not for the wonderful support and recommendations from coworkers, families, and commUNITY members who have enjoyed Camp Jimtown through the years.
 
I can't thank you all enough for ALL the support you've given me these six years and counting! With the help of our entire commUNITY, we have ALL made this program successful for everyone involved, especially the children. I am really looking forward to expanding it to another great commUNITY.

Edited by author 05-11-2009 10:04 AM
EVERYONE -- PLEASE READ THIS ALL THE WAY TO THE END!!!

Together, we raised a record $1,440.20 (and still counting with incoming IOU's) at our SPRING RUMMAGE & BAKE SALE!!! Although this is a small commUNITY, it is impossible to name every person who helped as there are so many!

Suffice it to say, the Camp Jim families and staff send our DEEPEST HEARTFELT THANKS to every single person who played a part, no matter how small, including those who set up, donated, baked, bought, paid, gave, worked, cleaned up, packed up, hauled away, fulfilled the role they signed up for, or simply supported in any other way -- YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE -- PAT YOURSELVES ON THE BACK!!!

All proceeds from this event benefit Camp Jimtown's childcare program expenses. Miraculously, we raised more than enough to pay for an entire YEAR of liability insurance, rent, and licensing fees. The remainder will be spent on staff training, new activity supplies, special guests invited to educate us, and other programs that directly benefit the kids.

Your generosity will make a huge difference in the lives of these children for YEARS TO COME and as previously stated, this program could not exist without these FUNdraisers and your ongoing commUNITY support!!

On a personal note, each of YOU continues to give me the will and inspiration to keep this program going for six years and counting!

Peace and love from Laura Williams, Childcare Director

Our SPRING RUMMAGE & BAKE SALE is right around the corner THIS Saturday, May 9th from 9-5 p.m. in JimTown Hall!

Donations of items IN GOOD CONDITION will be gratefully accepted starting TOMORROW, Thursday, May 7th AND Friday, May 8th from 6-8 p.m. in JimTown Hall. Please do not leave items if no one is there to receive them! Sorry, but we can NOT accept large appliances or furniture, mattresses, tires, vehicles, building materials, damaged goods, hazardous waste, trash, recycling, or anything that costs money to dispose of. Computers and electronics are welcome but will be returned to you if they don't sell. An area will be available to advertise any items we can't accept. Leftover items will be donated to charity or area thrift stores.

BAKE SALE: donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes & pies will be gratefully accepted on Saturday morning or by calling Laura at (3o3) 545-55o2 for other pickup arrangements. We hope our commUNITY bakers will continue to share their special goodies and gluten-free or vegan delights!

VOLUNTEERS ARE STILL NEEDED for this unique commUNITY FUNdraiser! Please sign up for a shift on the Town Hall doors or just show up and we'll put you to work!

All proceeds from this event benefit Camp Jimtown's childcare program expenses. THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR CHILDREN!

Our SPRING RUMMAGE & BAKE SALE is quickly approaching on Saturday, May 9th from 9-5 p.m. at JimTown Hall! We are accepting items in good condition on Thursday, May 7th & Friday, May 8th from 6-8 p.m. (see previous posts and signs all over town for specific guidelines). If you can't make either of those dates/times OR if you need help gathering items and organizing your home/shed/garage, etc., please call Laura @ (3o3) 545-55o2!

The VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP SHEET is now on the Town Hall doors AND in Jamestown School Lobby! This is a unique commUNITY FUNdraiser and everyone is encouraged to participate, either by working a shift, baking goodies, shopping, or hauling leftover items after the sale to charity or thrift stores.

All proceeds benefit Camp Jimtown's childcare program expenses and THE CHILDREN THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Welcome to our final FUNdraiser for this school year! Introducing...

SPRING RUMMAGE & BAKE SALE
Saturday, May 9th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
in JimTown Hall

Proceeds benefit Camp Jimtown's childcare program expenses!

RUMMAGE SALE: Donations of items in GOOD CONDITION will be gratefully accepted at the Town Hall on Thursday, May 7th AND Friday, May 8th from 6-8 p.m. Please do not leave items if no one is there to receive them! We reserve the right to refuse any item and we can NOT ACCEPT large appliances or furniture, mattresses, tires, vehicles, building materials, damaged goods, hazardous waste, trash, recycling, or anything that costs money to dispose of. Computers and electronics are welcome but will be returned to you if they don't sell. A board will be available at the event for you to advertise any items we can't accept. Leftover items will be donated to charity or area thrift stores.

BAKE SALE: Donations of individually-wrapped and/or whole cakes/pies will be gratefully accepted at the event or by calling the number below to make pickup arrangements. commUNITY BAKERS are strongly encouraged to share your delectables!

VOLUNTEERS are needed for this unique commUNITY FUNdraiser! Sign up for a shift on the Town Hall doors at the beginning of May or call us!

For more info, contact Laura Williams @ (3o3) 545-55o2

Great bargains! Yummy goodies! Come shopping!

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR KIDS!

Hope to see your family at the SPRING SCAVENGER HUNT tomorrow (Saturday, April 11th) at Jamestown's Elysian Park (The BIG One) with HIDING at 10 a.m. and FINDING promptly at 11 a.m. (kids under age 14)!

According to ancient Jimtownian tradition, each participating family brings a dozen decorated eggs or other trinkets/toys to hide while Camp Jimtown donates eggs and other prizes. This year, there will be a separate area for little tikes age 0-4, as well as 3 large golden eggs for the older kids to find and trade in for bigger prizes! Donations of non-chokable items for the little area would be greatly appreciated.

This free event is for everyone regardless of religious preference and will occur in any type of weather. We strongly encourage kids who USED TO be finders (but may be "too old" now) to take part in the HIDING!

HAPPY HUNTING!

NEED HELP PREPARING FOR THE UPCOMING RUMMAGE SALE & DUMPSTER DAY?

I'd like to offer my services to help you ORGANIZE and clean out any spaces that may be cluttering your life. I can organize any space you want in exactly THE WAY you want, while utilizing the space you have most efficiently, including your office, garage, shed, closets, attics, basements, or anything else you need. Camp Jimtown would greatly appreciate any donations you may have for the Rummage Sale and we can create a "waiting area" for items you may have for the dumpster. This offer should not be confused with basic housecleaning, although I will spruce up any areas you want me to organize.

Think about it...I charge a reasonable $20 per hour (trade also negotiable) and I can accomplish a lot in a little amount of time. I have excellent references (i.e. Sal DeVincenzo, Nancy Farmer and any others who'd care to speak up here!) and I invite you to call me to discuss your specific needs and reserve time @ (3o3) 545-55o2.

In the meantime, SAVE THE DATE and come shopping for excellent bargains at Camp Jimtown's final FUNdraiser for this school year...

SPRING RUMMAGE & BAKE SALE
Saturday, May 9th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
in JimTown Hall

This is also the same date as Jamestown's DUMPSTER DAY!

More specific details will follow about these events in coming weeks. I look forward to helping you team up and clean up!

Our annual SPRING SCAVENGER HUNT is THIS Saturday with hiding @ 10 a.m. in Jamestown's Elysian Park (the BIG one)! Finders (kids under age 14) will be set free promptly at 11 a.m.

According to ancient Jimtownian tradition, each participating family brings a dozen decorated eggs to hide in the park while Camp Jimtown contributes other eggs, prizes, and trinkets! There are 3 golden eggs for the older kids to find and exchange for a bigger prize. There is also an entire separate area for kids under age 4. Donations of toys for this age group (0-4) would be greatly appreciated as we seek items OTHER than candy or small chokeables for this special area!

This free event is for EVERYONE regardless of religious preference and will occur in any type of weather! Spread the word to all the kids and we hope to see you there!

TONIGHT!

Drama Club invites you to see us perform ASSIGNMENT: EARTH! at the church in Ward, Colorado at 6:30 p.m. Parking is available in the lot across from the Utica Street Market or roadside and everyone must walk up the hill to the church.

We hope you can join us as we take our show "on the road" for the first time ever!

Drama Club goes ON THE ROAD!

Please join us as we present...

ASSIGNMENT: EARTH!
Sunday, April 5th @ 6:30 p.m.
at the church in Ward, Colorado

The Camp Jim kids become the "E-Team" as they illustrate through singing, dancing, acting, and handmade visual arts, ways we can all work together to save the Earth.

Camp Jimtown also teams up with many commUNITY members on this one, featuring Juliette Leon Bartsch as our stunning Musical Director and our proud sponsors, Green Girl Recycling and Richard Jenkins' Jamestown Player's Club!

All ages are welcome free of charge. Thank you for your support!

Please mark your calendars and join us as Drama Club presents...

ASSIGNMENT: EARTH - How We Can Save The Planet!

Thursday, March 19th @ 6 p.m. in Jamestown School gym.

The Camp Jim kids become the "E-Team" as they illustrate through singing, dancing, acting, and handmade visual arts, ways we can all work together to save the Earth.

Camp Jimtown also teams up with many commUNITY members on this one, featuring Juliette Bartsch as our stunning Musical Director and our proud sponsors, Green Girl Recycling and Richard Jenkins' Player's Club!

All ages are welcome free of charge as a gift to our commUNITY in appreciation of supporting Camp Jimtown for six years and counting. We hope to see you there!

We are pleased to report that our VALENTINE'S BAKE SALE raised a whoppin' $365.28 toward our program expenses, such as liability insurance, rent, licensing fees, activity supplies, etc. for next year!

THANK YOU to our commUNITY for supporting our mountain youth!!!!

And SPECIAL THANKS to the Camp Jim families and the record number of commUNITY bakers who graced our tastebuds with their fine goodies, including Barb Buell, Lulu, Catherine Davis, Karen DeVincenzo, Beth Brotherton, Jillian, Mike & Tana Matzuk, Jen Lucas, and Stephanie Carlson, as well as Carl Armon's efforts at attempting the gluten-free category!

EXTRA SPECIAL THANKS to Jillian & Brent for allowing us to hold the sale in their lot, to Jena Z. for donating ingredients and coming to teach the kids how to make those awesome doggie treats (which promptly sold out) AND to Tommy Williams for helping to keep us warm with the fire ring!

Stay tuned for our final FUNdraiser of this school year -- a combination SPRING RUMMAGE & BAKE SALE coming in May!

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE...and sweet yummy goodies!

Just a reminder of our VALENTINE'S BAKE SALE tomorrow, Saturday, February 14th from 12-2 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office featuring homemade treats for humans AND pets made by Camp Jim kids, families, and commUNITY bakers, roses, chocolate lollipops, gluten-free items, and lots of love!

We'll be there regardless of the weather and we hope you can come support our local mountain youth as proceeds benefit our after-school program expenses for next year.

Donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes/pies will be gratefully accepted at the event or by calling Laura @ (3 oh 3) 545-55o2 for pickup arrangements.

Spread the word and spread the love!

Hi friends...would anyone out there be willing and able to make some GLUTEN-FREE baked goods for our Bake Sale on Saturday? This category is always underrepresented (as in, we usually have NONE!) and we would like to spread the love to those who are allergic to wheat as well!

THANKS! No need to reply...just bring 'em down or call me to pick 'em up! Laura @ (3o3) 545-55o2

BARKING NEWS!

In true commUNITY fashion, Camp Jimtown presents homemade dog treats made by Jena Z. and the Camp Jim kids at our VALENTINE'S BAKE SALE this Saturday, February 14th from noon to 2 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office during recycling!

For 5 years now, this special sale features human AND pet goodies and we're proud to team up with the best *healthy* dog biscuit maker in the area! We'll also be selling roses, our famous homemade chocolate lollipops, and other delectable items to express your love!

commUNITY BAKERS are strongly encouraged to participate as we LOVE when that happens! Donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes/pies will be gratefully accepted at the event or by calling (3o3) 545-55o2 to make pickup arrangements.

We hope to see you there regardless of the weather and as always, THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR MOUNTAIN YOUTH!

It's that time of year again...time to SPREAD THE LOVE!

Join us at our 5th annual VALENTINE'S BAKE SALE next Saturday, February 14th from 12-2 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office during recycling! This awesome sale features homemade human AND pet goodies, chocolate lollipops, roses, and more! All proceeds benefit Camp Jimtown's after-school program expenses, including liability insurance, rent, licensing fees, etc. for next year.

commUNITY BAKERS UNITE! Donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes/pies will be gratefully accepted at the event or by calling (3o3) 545-55o2 for pickup arrangements.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR MOUNTAIN YOUTH!

Updated Bar-K Calendar Signup Page Here:

http://www.bar-k-ranch.com/calendar.htm

Edited by author 01-30-2009 05:47 PM
************************************************************
Help Thy Neighbor Calendar
 
Take the opportunity to do something nice for some special Bar-K neighbors.
Please sign up on the Bar-K calendar to make meals for the Gjertsons to help get them through this very difficult time.
 
Calendar:
http://www.bar-k-ranch.com/calendar.htm
************************************************************

Drama Club invites you to our original production:

A CACOPHONY OF DRAMEDY
Saturday, December 6th @ 7 p.m.
Jamestown School Gym

This show is based on the British sitcom, "Whose Line Is It Anyway" with lots of improvisation, surprises, music, audience interaction, and FUN completely made up by our kids and all taking place inside our homemade theater as a free gift to our commUNITY! Hope to see you there!

Yet another delicious new Seasonal Sapphire Plate Special Menu is ready to from The Wholesome Gourmet. Check it out,
http://thewholesomegourmet.com/menus.htm
and scroll down to Sapphire Plates

WARNING: Do not go to this link if you are hungry!

It's never too early to start planning your holiday party ... especially since our calendar is slowly, but surely filling up! Please let me know if you are even thinking about a particular date and I'll pencil you in!

Anyone interested in a cooking class geared towards Holiday Hors D'oeuvres? Quick, delicious & easy finger foods that you yourself can make to bring to all those holiday parties. I'm thinking about offering this right after Thanksgiving. Let me know if you interested.

Happy November!

The Wholesome Gourmet
http://www.thewholesomegourmet.com
PHONE: 303.478.2204

Well, friends...in spite of a somewhat dreary day, our FALL BAKE SALE raked in $249.83 toward our after-school program expenses! The children and I send a heartfelt THANKS to EVERYONE who baked and/or bought at the sale, including our Camp Jim families and our special commUNITY BAKERS, Karen Auvinen, Karen DeVincenzo, Sally Hempy, Carl Armon, Catherine Davis, and Rainbow Schultz!

Stay tuned for our next Bake Sale coming soon on Valentine's Day, featuring human and pet goodies! As always, THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING our youth!

The kids are at it again with our annual FALL BAKE SALE next Saturday, October 11th from 12-2 p.m. during recycling near Jamestown Post Office! Donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes & pies will be gratefully accepted at the event. In addition to baked goods, various items made by our own Camp Jim kids will be on sale just in time for Halloween! We also hope to taste some fabulous delights made by our talented commUNITY BAKERS!! All proceeds benefit Camp Jimtown's expenses such as liability insurance, rent, licensing fees, staff training, etc.

Hope to see you there and THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

CALLING ALL commUNITY MUSICIANS!

Drama Club needs help creating music for our upcoming original production, "A Cacophony of Dramedy," scheduled for December. If you are interested and able to help form and/or back up a KID BAND, as well as create a variety of simple, unique songs and choreographed dances, please call Laura @ (3o3) 545-55o2 as soon as possible!

As always, thank you for your support!

Welcome back to school! A reminder to Jamestown residents and elementary school parents:

Andersen Avenue is ONE WAY going UP the hill between the hours of 7:30-8:30 a.m. AND 2:30-3 p.m. to allow children to walk safely on this route.

Please drive SLOWLY -- UP Andersen and DOWN Mesa Street during these hours.

Thank you for your courtesy!

We are moving, sadly, to Seattle and have many items we would love to sell or give away. Please call us to know more about our tables, lamps, televisions, bookcases, furniture, plants, futon, couch and more.

Luca, Tim and Gayle Rose
303 459 0343

Drama Club presents...

JIMTOWN JAMBALAYA!!! Monday, May 19th @ 6 p.m. SHARP in Jamestown School gym! {Note: if you operate on "mountain time," you might want to set your target time to be around 5:30!}

Don't miss this first-time ever "funniest home videos" style small-town minor motion picture created right here by the Camp Jim kids and their families! Some of YOU may even be in it!

Monday evening will feature homemade jambalaya by one of our favorite commUNITY characters, Leon Hill! Plus, popcorn, laughs, giggles, and some good ol' knee-slappin' commUNITY FUN!

Hope to see you all at Jamestown School, the home of Camp Jimtown, this Monday night! Call (303) 545-5502 if you need directions or if you make a good cornbread...!

Year-end call for box tops!

Please clip those "box tops for education" coupons from your cereal boxes, disposable diaper packages, Ziploc baggie boxes, etc., and bring them to recycling on Saturday the 10th. Anna and I will redeem them for Jamestown Elementary.

Thanks to everyone who has contributed/will contribute!

WHEW! WHAT A WEEKEND!

Band in a Hat III was positively EXCELLENT!!! Everyone in every band did a great job, sounded awesome, and played/sang really well! Special thanks to Nancy Farmer for all her inspiration and to JAM for sponsoring such a great event! Also, thanks to the cleaner-uppers the following day (Beth & Michael Brotherton, Nancy Farmer, Tom Williams, Corey Kirschner, Roger Krichbaum, Max and his 2 buddies, and Jerry Rease). I hope we can do it again and keep this tradition alive!

Camp Jimtown's SPRING BAKE SALE made a whoppin' $212.81! Special thanks to everyone who bought items, as well as all of the fine folks who baked, including Catherine Davis, Carl Armon, Karen A., Karen D., Gayle Rose, Anne Kosel, and all of the Camp Jim families!

Just a reminder that our SPRING BAKE SALE is tomorrow, Saturday, April 12th from 12-2 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office during recycling! Donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes & pies would be greatly appreciated, especially from some of our wonderful commUNITY bakers! Proceeds benefit our ongoing after-school program expenses. Thank you for your support and we hope to see you there!

Hi Friends! We're at it again with our annual SPRING BAKE SALE next Saturday, April 12th from 12-2 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office during recycling! Donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes & pies will be gratefully accepted at the event or the day before and commUNITY bakers are strongly encouraged to keep sharing those delicious recipes! Proceeds benefit Camp Jim's ongoing afterschool program expenses, such as rent, liability insurance, and licensing fees. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF OUR YOUTH!

Happy Spring everyone! Remember to join us for our annual SPRING SCAVENGER HUNT this Saturday, March 22nd in Jamestown's Big Park! Hiding begins at NOON with adults and kids over age 13 helping to hide their decorated eggs & other trinkets and finding for kids of all ages will start promptly at 1 p.m.! This free event is for everyone regardless of religious preference and will occur in any type of weather. See you there!

THANK YOU - THANK YOU - THANK YOU!!

Thanks to our precious, loving commUNITY, our Valentine's Bake Sale raised a record $425.35 toward our program expenses!!! Special thanks to ALL of our Camp Jim family bakers, as well as all of the commUNITY bakers, who not only brought their delicious delectables, but also donated money to the cause, including Catherine Davis, Beth Brotherton, Carl Armon, LuLu, Cary Bush, Andee Graves, Sally Hempy, Margie Airola, and Karen DeVincenzo. Extra special thanks to EVERYONE who bought items at the event AND to Sal DeVincenzo for the unique sales techniques he used to flag down customers! Finally, and most importantly, THANK YOU to our persuasive saleskids who braved the cold and sold, sold, sold! WE LOVE OUR commUNITY!

SHARE & SPREAD THE LOVE at our annual Valentine's Bake Sale next Thursday, February 14th from 4-6 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office! If you feel so inclined to bake something, we will gratefully accept donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes/pies at the event or by calling (303) 545-5502 to arrange pickup! As always, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

BRAVO DRAMA CLUB! What a wonderful, magical performance of "Fantasy of the Forgotton Toys" last night! Everyone did such a great job and should be very proud! Remember the CAST PARTY tomorrow and we'll celebrate!

SPECIAL THANKS to EVERYONE who helped clean the Town Hall after the performance!!!!!! And to everyone who had a hand in making the entire production a huge success!

Eek -- too much multitasking; I made a mess of that last post in more than one way. I'm sorry.

Please avoid driving on *ANDERSON* during the big Jamestown commute, say 7:45 - 8:10 am and 2:30 - 3:00 pm, to allow kiddos a safe walking route.

Please stop at the top of Mesa and see if anyone is already on the hill or waiting at the bottom, before starting down.

Please drive slowly.

Please attend the Town meeting on 1/7.

Summary of various winter driving discussions:

The current, prevailing strategy is to avoid driving on Mesa during the big Jamestown commute, say 7:45 - 8:10 am and 2:30 - 3:00 pm, to allow kiddos a safe walking route.

I've learned from some Jimtowners that Colorado state law holds that the person at the bottom of a hill has the right of way. It seems that all of us who drive to/from school could manage on Mesa if the people at the top just make a habit of peeking over before starting down.

This topic will be on the January 7th Town meeting agenda. JES parents, maybe we could arrange cooperative childcare.

Chris

Hurry and get your authentic Camp Jimtown BUMPER STICKERS! $5 each benefits our after-school program expenses. Limited supplies are still available at Jamestown School or by calling Laura @ (303) 545-5502. Great gifts for friends and family near and far, as well as excellent vehicle & instrument case decorations! Thank you for your support!

Just to add to the discussion from a driver of a front-wheel drive Honda, sometimes I haven't been able to get up Mesa and have to use Andersen, which gets more sun. Just ask Rowan and Quinn about the scary slides and the pushing they've had to endure!

Sorry that happened to you Chris. You're right...it is dangerous when we're not all on the same page.

In the past, we've always instituted a school-wide agreement to travel UP MESA when approaching the school (for either pick-up or drop-off) and DOWN ANDERSEN when leaving. This has worked well in the past, except it hasn't been instituted town-wide, so we still run the risk of meeting someone on either road who doesn't know this policy.

I think it would be a good idea to bring it to the town, but CLOSING ANDERSEN, as was proposed, would only force everyone to go up AND down Mesa, which would also be dangerous. I would totally support a one-way direction for everyone, if the town would agree. As for the walkers, I think that if there is ANY CONCERN WHATSOEVER about safety, either supervised or on their own, then parents should reconsider allowing their kids to walk to school.

Just my two cents from a direct observer of many near-miss accidents on the corner of Andersen.

Good morning everyone,

It would be very wise for us to pick a rationale -- any rationale -- for driving up to the school and back, and agree to abide by it. I might easily have gone off the (Mesa Street) hill this morning with two children in the car, because someone decided to plunge down when I had already started up.

It seems that there's more confusion when the weather is bad. Would reversing the flow of traffic make it easier for most of our cars to get up the hill?

Could we put this to a vote? School-community or full-community? Or just request that the town mandate a one-way circle? Now that we have many more children at the school, it's really unsafe. We will all feel a lot of remorse if there's an accident and a child is hurt!

Thanks,

Chris

Premiering at the JAM CRAFT FAIR, next Saturday, December 8th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in JIMtown Hall...CAMP JIMTOWN, THE BUMPER STICKER! Only $5 each with option to color your own! Not only must our mountain commUNITY vehicles and instrument cases proudly display one of these historical landmarks, they also make great gifts for friends and family near and far! Limited Supplies and all proceeds benefit our after-school program expenses. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

I appreciate Beth Brotherton for all that she has done for me, my husband and especially my boys, not to mention her community. She is a shining example of what it means "to come from the heart". I hope everyone can be so blessed as to have someone like "Auntie Beth" in their lives.
Let's just keep spreading it around!

Yay Everyone! But I've been checking the mail and still no chili? (kidding) Well stated Sal. And from very far away is the Flynn Family who misses this gem of a town...Jimtown. "Yeah!" says Riley. STRIPMIME_JOINLINES

Fame is vapor..
Popularity an accident..
Riches take wings..
Only one thing endures
and that is character.

Miss Beth, We Love You!

Wooooooo hoooooooooo!!!!!!! Nice job you crazy freaks. Watching all of the love fly back and forth reminds me why I LOVE Jamestown and all you beautiful people. Don't ever forget how special of a thing y'all have going on. It IS unique. Keep it twirling.

Oh...and congrats on one kick-butt chili cook-off!!!

Very nice message, Miss Beth, but you forgot the MOST IMPORTANT THANK YOU OF ALL...TO YOU BETH BROTHERTON, the mastermind behind it all, the inspiration, the mover & the shaker, the firelight under the butts, the cleaner of the Town Hall the day AFTER every event (school or otherwise), the money counter & gatherer, the organizer, the problem solver, the confidante, the teacher teaching us all, the QUEEN OF EVERYTHING...thank YOU, Beth Brotherton!

I beckon everyone who APPRECIATES BETH BROTHERTON and all she's EVER done for our commUNITY past and present to send a QT round of applause, pat on the back, word of thanks, or other messages of kudos. READY, GO!

Thanks to everyone who supported Jamestown School yesterday at the Chili Cook-Off and Silent Auction.

Nancy Farmer was our 1st prize winner with her Smokin' Six Shooter Recipe.
Martha Russo and Emma Hardy took 2nd and 3rd. Suzette Fike won the People's Choice Award.

So many people came together to make this event a success!

Thanks to the chili makers. When you make a pot of chili for this event, it's like giving the school a $50.00 bill!!!
Thanks to the cornbread makers, and dessert makers.
Thanks to all those who purchased chili dinners.
Thanks to the set-up crew and the cleanup crew.
Thanks to the chili judges and the cook-off winners.
Thanks to the musicians.
Thanks to the organizers and the poster makers.
Thanks to those who donated items for the auction.
Thanks to those who solicited and picked up items for the auction.
And finally, thanks to everyone who bid on the items at the auction, whether you won or not your bid helped the school!
 
The PTO netted over $1800.00
$1350.00-Auction
$513.00-Chili Dinner WOW!

Proceeds will cover everything from our annual outdoor education program to classroom supplies and scholarships!

We're so very proud to be "the" school in such a wonderful and caring community!

CORRECTION on yesterday's PROP WORKSHOP posting:

Location is in Emma's Studio to the EAST of the Merc building!

Pass it on!

Become part of THE FANTASY!

Emma Hardy and Mark Wischmeyer proudly present...

PROP WORKSHOP -- Creations for "Fantasy of the Forgotten Toys"

TUESDAYS @ 5 p.m. -- FREE!
November 13th, 20th, 27th, and December 3rd
At Emma's Studio in the building just west of the Merc @ 108 Main Street, Jamestown

ALL ARE WELCOME to join us in making props for the "Fantasy" production coming to JimTown Hall on December 15th brought to you by Camp Jimtown and JAM for the Arts!

Tonight's November 5 agenda includes discussion of closing Andersen Hill to traffic Monday thru Fridays 8AM - 5PM for safe route to school for children. There will also be an Animal Control Officer present to explain regulations and answer questions regarding dogs running loose. Meeting starts at 7 PM in the town hall at 118 Main Street.

Aw man! Can ya mail us samples??? (Kidding). Miss you all and have fun! -Sather, Asa & RileyYour focus determines your reality. -Qui Gon Jinn, Jedi Master
> Date: Sun, 4 Nov 2007 21:07:34 +0000> Subject: Jamestown Elementary> From: qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> To: qtopic+subs@quicktopic.com> > --QT-------------------------------------------------------------> Reply by email or visit> http://www.quicktopic.com/19/H/uHNSjCkMkVh7/m173>; -------------------------------------------------------------- --> > From Ines> -------------------------------------------------------------- --------> Mark your calendars for next Sunday! Come and support your local> school, and join us at Jamestown Elementary's CHILI COOKOFF,> DINNER and SILENT AUCTION fundraiser Sunday, November 11th from> 2:30 - 6:00 pm at the town hall. Get out your favorite chili> recipes and join this fun contest with winners of 1st, 2nd and> 3rd place receiving cash prizes!!!! (Chili cooks should have> your crock pots and fixings ready to go right at 2:30 so our> amazing judges from the Merc can do their tastin'). Come on down> with the family and enjoy a delicious steaming bowl (or 2) of> chili, cornbread, dessert and drink for only $5.00 for adults> and $3.00 for children!!! Listen to live music while you eat by> John Gustke and friends. Browse around at our silent auction> with awesome items to bid on! It will be a good time for> everyone!! See you there! Thanks for your support for our> special little school!> > We are accepting donations of items from the community to> auction off like: artwork, hand crafted items, services from> your businesses, etc. Please bring your item to our school this> week. Thanks!!> _________________________________________________________________> To unsubscribe: http://www.quicktopic.com/19/X/uHNSjCkMkVh7>; Start your own topic in 20 seconds: http://www.quicktopic.com |QTSTRIPMIME_JOINLINES

From Ines
-------------------------------------------------------------- --------
Mark your calendars for next Sunday! Come and support your local school, and join us at Jamestown Elementary's CHILI COOKOFF, DINNER and SILENT AUCTION fundraiser Sunday, November 11th from 2:30 - 6:00 pm at the town hall. Get out your favorite chili recipes and join this fun contest with winners of 1st, 2nd and 3rd place receiving cash prizes!!!! (Chili cooks should have your crock pots and fixings ready to go right at 2:30 so our amazing judges from the Merc can do their tastin'). Come on down with the family and enjoy a delicious steaming bowl (or 2) of chili, cornbread, dessert and drink for only $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children!!! Listen to live music while you eat by John Gustke and friends. Browse around at our silent auction with awesome items to bid on! It will be a good time for everyone!! See you there! Thanks for your support for our special little school!

We are accepting donations of items from the community to auction off like: artwork, hand crafted items, services from your businesses, etc. Please bring your item to our school this
week. Thanks!!

This commUNITY never ceases to amaze me! Our Fall Bake Sale raised over $350.00 in less than 2 hours toward our expenses for the year!!! Thanks to all of the Camp Jim families who baked AND to all of our wonderful commUNITY bakers who donated such delicious and beautiful goodies! Special thanks to the Hempy's, Carl, Karen A., Brooke, Karen D., Rainbow, Catherine D., and to everyone who supported our event!

KEEP THOSE SAFEWAY CARD NUMBERS COMING!! Each number we receive earns more money for Jamestown School! The program ends this Saturday, October 13th. Sincere thanks to our commUNITY for donating to our small school in this huge way!

BABY WILLIAMS IS ONE!!!

Join us to celebrate ELISE'S FIRST BIRTHDAY this Saturday, June 23rd at the Mothership (our house) from 1 p.m. until Stellar J plays at the Merc around 8 p.m. Special KID activities...prepare to get dirty and wet! Bring your instruments to JAM ALL DAY! Potluck & BYO (the grill will be on) and of course, there will be CAKE. Hope to see you and your family there!

THANKS to ALL who came to watch Drama Club's VARIETY SHOW last night! The kids did a great job acting out the skits, plays, and dances that they created themselves and they really enjoyed sharing the jokes they chose! Aside from the technical (sound) difficulties and periodic set design glitches (my deepest apologies!), a great time seemed to be had by all! SPECIAL THANKS to Martha Russo, Kristi Rutledge, Jennifer Lucas, and Garbo for all your help throughout the evening!

Next fall, Drama Club hopes to team up with JAM's CHILDREN'S THEATER as well as explore the drama of film by creating a small-town minor motion picture! Stay tuned and as always, THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT!

Drama Club invites you, our commUNITY, to attend our year-end VARIETY SHOW featuring skits, dances, and other goodies created and performed by the Camp Jim kids this Wednesday, May 23rd at 6 p.m. SHARP in Jamestown School's gym. Be there and laugh yourself SILLY!

Camp Jimtown is REJOICING this week as we raised $1,263.10 from the Rummage Sale!!!! Hence, ALL of our expenses are covered for next year, including rent, licensing fees, and the biggie liability insurance (and then some)! The following "THANK YOU" messages come from the CHILDREN, as well as from the depths of my heart as there are no words to truly express the immense, intense appreciation and love I feel toward the people of this commUNITY...

This event would not have happened without the inspiration, hard work, and long hours of LAURA CASCARDI. I can't thank you enough, Laura, but I swear I will find a way! Also, special thanks to EVERYONE who helped out by donating and/or buying goods, working a shift, sorting and organizing items, loading the leftovers into personal vehicles to take to other places, and impressively making sure the Town Hall was completely cleaned up by SUNDAY EVENING!!! These kind, generous folks include (but are not limited to) JAM for allowing us to carry on this great tradition as a FUNdraiser for the next generation of JAMmers, Town of Jamestown for allowing us use of the hall in the midst of pending construction plans, Laura Cascardi, Rudiger, Kate & Julien Schmidt, Beth Brotherton, Kristi Rutledge, Laura Cascardi, Julia Taylor, Colorado Friendship (Mark & Barbara Olsen), Laura Cascardi, Catherine Davis, Denise Straus, Laura Cascardi, Amy Gage, Kael Davis, Deanna, Rainbow, Katya & kids, Chris Craigo & Anna Swarts, Henry Mans, Laura Cascardi, and anyone I may have missed (Laura Cascardi)!

Rest assured, the best way to truly express our gratitude is to continue the the Camp Jimtown mission of "providing UNITY in our commUNITY!" Be on the lookout for more events and programs that include everyone as we head into the celebration of our 5TH ANNIVERSARY next fall!!! As always, THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT!!!

The RUMMAGING has begun! Bring your stuff to our drop-off area inside the Town Hall every night this week from 6-8 p.m.! We've already accumulated some excellent items for the actual sale on Saturday and Sunday! Thanks to all who donated so far!

In all fairness, PRE-SALE SHOPPING IS NOT ALLOWED...except to the kind folks who sign up and donate their time to work a 2-hour shift in this week preceding the sale. SIGN-UP NOW at the Merc or school lobby as there are only two 2-hour shifts available per day!

There's good stuff to be had down there and it's really fun mingling with the neighbors!

The RUMMAGE SALE is here! Donations of items IN GOOD CONDITION will be gratefully accepted at the Town Hall on Sunday, April 29th from 12-2 p.m. AND every night this week from 6-8 p.m. Please do not leave items if no one is there to receive them. Once again, we can NOT accept mattresses, tires, large furniture or appliances, building materials, damaged items, vehicles, hazardous waste, trash, or recycling.

The event will be next Saturday AND Sunday, May 5th & 6th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Also, we still need volunteers to work 2 hour shifts at the event, so please sign up in the Merc or Jamestown School lobby if you can help! Proceeds benefit Camp Jimtown's expenses for next year. See you there!

There is now a sign-up sheet located in the Merc and the Jamestown School lobby for volunteers to help out at the upcoming RUMMAGE SALE! There are 3 ways to help...receiving items in the Town Hall the week before, working at the event in 2-hour shifts, and taking car/truckloads of leftover items to shelters or thrift stores the week after. Allow me emphasize how FUN this sale is...it's a time for neighbors to get together and pass on their favorite used items to other neighbors while making money for a good local cause (proceeds benefit our after-school program's expenses for next year...ultimately our mountain children). In the past, the Rummage Sale has even inspired talk of writing a play based on the event with all the goofy conversations, characters, and items that come about! It's truly a down-home, fun commUNITY event and we hope you all can be involved!

Thanks to our wonderful bakers, patrons, and kid salesfolks, we raised $270.07 at our Spring Bake Sale! Special thanks to the commUNITY bakers, including Carl, Beth Brotherton, Holly Mann, Kael Davis, Catherine Davis, the mysterious brownie baker, and all the Camp Jim families for the deliciously tasty treats!

NOW, it's time to do some spring cleaning for our final FUNdraiser that benefits our program expenses for next year...reintroducing the mountainwide RUMMAGE SALE! Saturday, May 5th AND Sunday, May 6th in JimTown Hall from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Donations of items IN GOOD CONDITION ONLY will be gratefully accepted starting Sunday, April 29th from 12-2 p.m. AND Monday, April 30th THROUGH Friday, May 4th from 6-8 p.m. or by appointment. We reserve the right to refuse any item and we absolutely CAN NOT accept large furniture, mattresses, tires, damaged items, hazardous waste, trash, recycling, building materials, large appliances (like refrigerators, microwaves, washers, dryers, propane tanks, toilets, etc.), or anything that would cost money to dispose of. A bulletin board will be available for patrons to advertise any items we can't accept. Any items remaining after the sale will be donated to local shelters and thrift stores or may find a home at Jimtown's annual Dumpster Day on Saturday, May 19th.

So, clean out your closets and join us in TRADING OUR STUFF! Call Laura @ (303) 545-5502 with any questions or to volunteer for this event. Special thanks to JAM for allowing us to put on this FUNdraiser this year!

VOLUNTEER NEEDED (desperately!) at Camp Jimtown's Drama Club every Wednesday from 3-4 p.m. to work with a group of kids creating set design for our upcoming VARIETY SHOW on May 23rd! These are simple murals made out of paper and cardboard, but the most important part is to keep the kids busy while I direct those who are practicing their skits. Please call Laura @ (303) 545-5502 if you can help out.

This commUNITY seriously ROCKS!!! Our deepest THANKS to everyone for spreading the LOVE and contributing to our Bake Sale, which raised a whoppin' $319.93 toward next year's program expenses!!! Especially impressive were all of our commUNITY friends who put their hearts into baking and donated their delicious love-filled desserts...thank you Karen Auvinen, Karen DeVincenzo, Jan Reed, Beth Brotherton, Kael Davis, Catherine Davis, Sally Hempy, Tom Williams, and ALL the Camp Jim kids & parents! Happy Valentine's Day one and all!

xoxoxoxo SPREAD THE LOVE! xoxoxoxo

Show your affection with confections from Camp Jimtown's 4th annual VALENTINE'S BAKE SALE next Saturday, February 10th @ 12-2 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office! This sweet sale features human AND pet goodies made by Camp Jim Kids & their families, as well as other tokens of love!

commUNITY bakers UNITE! We truly enjoy showcasing our fine mountain chefs and we greatly appreciate donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes & pies...bring 'em to the event or call (303) 545-5502 for pickup! Proceeds benefit our program expenses for next year and as always, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Just a reminder...Camp Jimtown will be CLOSED this Thursday and Friday, January 11th and 12th due to my surgery. There is also no school or Camp Jimtown on Monday, January 15th in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Please contact me @ (303) 545-5502 if you have trouble making other childcare arrangements. Thank you for your consideration!

Addendum to the previous Kid Party note...and THANK YOU from the
bottom of our tummies to Dee Gustke for making our pizzas!

So far, I've found 1 pair of purple snowpants and 2 stinky socks
left by some kids. Well, I didn't actually smell the
socks...nonetheless, keep an eye out for postings of various
lost items I find along the way.

HAPPY 2007 from the Mothership Kid Party! And what a success it was! I hope everyone enjoyed our noise fest at midnight (east coast time!) and I'm proud to say that everyone was snug in their bags by 2 a.m. (that's midnight, our time!). EXTRA SPECIAL THANKS to my helper and savior, Allie, to Chad for spinning up a musical storm, to Araya for inspiring the kids to dance their patooties off, to Gary Dunn for the use of his strobe light & fog machine, and to my friend Jill for her disco ball. Finally, I must say that I am so impressed and deeply moved by how respectful each and every kid was to my home and my family. They were extremely well behaved, got along great, and followed all directions. NICE JOB to the parents and other influences who have raised such wonderful and fun young mountain folk. It was a true joy to host such a rockin' party! Peace, love and happiness to all in this and every year!

Camp Jimtown Drama Club presents...

TALKING CRAYONS {a play based on "The Crayon Box That Talked" by Shane DeRolf} on Monday, December 18th starting at 6:30 p.m. in the Jamestown School gym. Please join us!

Hey Asa.....
The asasaurus rex will need some touch-ups soon. When you comin back?

Damn! $30 bucks is a deal! Does that include airfare? ;O) Love to you all, Asa



Your focus determines your reality. -Qui Gon Jinn, Jedi Master





From: QT - Laura Williams <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> Reply-To: QT topic 19-uHNSjCkMkVh7 <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> To: QT topic subscribers <qtopic+subs@quicktopic.com>
Subject: Jamestown Elementary
Date: 13 Dec 2006 20:01:44 -0800

< replied-to message removed by QT >

ONLY 3 MORE SLOTS REMAIN for the KID NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY and sleepover at the Mothership! Call (303) 545-5502 if you'd like your child (at least age 5) to attend for only $30!

To those of you who are signed up, please get me your child's TWO FAVORITE SONGS on CD or tape within the next 2 weeks!

'Tis the Season,
I am giving out one month Holiday Gift Memberships to Curves. Give me a call if you would like one. Happy Holidays, Dee 3-4-3298 or drop me a note here.

Reminder for Wednesday Night Nov. 8:

Jamestown Elementary student's dance movement presentation "Turning the Wheel". FREE entertainment starting at 6 pm sharp in the school gym. (It will be a short presentation, so don't be late or you'll miss it.)

Light refreshments and post-election cheer to follow.

See 'ya there!

Well, our first Halloween as parents was AWESOME! Thanks to all who created the party in the Town Hall and to all who participated! Great job on decorations, games, and food...Max, your haunted area was superb!

THANK YOU FRIENDS for a very successful Bake Sale on Saturday! We raised $340.71 toward our expenses for next year. Our deepest thanks to everyone who baked, attended, bought, and helped out!

Reminder:
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
14th Annual Hike To Jamestown Pancake Breakfast Tuesday July 4 2006
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Sign up at ---> http://www.bar-k-ranch.com/hike.htm

Please join us for an absolutely splendid and enjoyable (less than) 2 hour downhill walk thru the woods to the world renowned pancake breakfast and July 4th parade festivities in beautiful downtown Jamestown. The group meets at our house at 7:00 for coffee, tea and Karen's famous blueberry muffins, group photo, and then off we go at 7:30 sharp. A few cars parked in Jamestown the night before will provide the shuttle ride back up. Kids, dogs and everyone in between welcome.

DeVincenzo’s
538 Ranch Road
459-3359

Camp Jimtown's Drama Club proudly presents...THE BIG SWITCHEROO (A Play About Respect) on Tuesday, May 30th at 7 p.m. in Jamestown Town Hall!

This show is free of charge as a gift to our commUNITY for your ongoing support of our program and FUNdraisers throughout the year! Hope to see y'all there!

Well, folks...thanks to all of you bakers and patrons, we had a THE MOST SUCCESSFUL BAKE SALE EVER on Saturday!!! We raised a record-breaking total of $609! Hence, we made $205 for Colorado Friendship selling chocolates AND $404 for Camp Jimtown! Extra special thanks to Colorado Friendship for splitting that chocolate fundraiser with us.

The bottom line is that Camp Jim's expenses for next year are ALL SET and any fundraising we do at that time will go toward the following year's expenses. For the first time ever, we are ahead of the game and the children and I can't thank you all enough for your ongoing support of our little program! Hope to see you all at the Switcheroo...but more info on that later.

Camp Jim presents another delicious MOTHER'S DAY BAKE SALE on Saturday, May 13th from 12-2 p.m. during recycling near Jamestown Post Office featuring FINE BELGIAN CHOCOLATES for only $10 per box and baked goodies made by Camp Jim kids and their families!

COMMUNITY BAKERS UNITE! Donations of individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes & pies would be greatly appreciated! Please bring your item(s) to the event or call Laura @ (303) 545-5502 for pick-up.

Proceeds benefit Camp Jim's snacks, supplies & liability insurance and half of chocolate sales benefit Colorado Friendship...THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Happy Valentine's Day Friends! Thanks to all of our patrons and bakers, we raised $196.05 at our Bake Sale on Saturday, bringing us more than halfway to our goal of covering liability insurance & expenses for next year! Special gratitude goes to commUNITY bakers, Lulu and Carl, as well as all the Camp Jim parents. Finally, THANK YOU to the children for braving the cold elements and being such wonderful little salespeople! As always, we appreciate your the ongoing support of our commUNITY and we hope to see you at our Mother's Day Bake Sale coming in May.

Love is in the air and it's time for our annual VALENTINE'S BAKE SALE this Saturday, February 11th from noon to 2 p.m. near Jamestown Post Office during recycling! This unique sale features flowers, human treats AND pet goodies made by the Camp Jim kids and their families. COMMUNITY BAKERS UNITE...we invite everyone to share your delights! Please bring individually-wrapped items and/or whole cakes/pies to the event or call Laura @ (303) 545-5502 for pickup. Proceeds benefit Camp Jimtown's liability insurance, snacks, and supplies and as always, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Deb the class is on. Please call Claudia if you are interested. 303-459-0208

Let's try that again.... I am perhaps interested in the CPR class. How full/empty is the class to date? When will you decide if you are commencing/canceling? Please reply. Thanks.

Hello All,

Laura called and was going to post this correction. The CPR/First Aid class for adult/infant/child is actually on the 4th of February from 9 am to 3 pm. No books are neccessary but bring a notebook and a pen and pencil and $20.00. The cards are $4.00 a piece and this time I need to charge more due to additional equioment replacement costs. There is a written test and practical hands on manikin training.
The class will be at 119 Jed Smith Road (Jack's new house). I can take 10 people.

Thanks and sorry for the confusion about the date.

I will cancel the class if I do not have at least 6 participants.
Claudia

Hi All,
Cluadia Willis-Bunch has offered to teach us a first aid and CPR
Course this up coming Saturday, at her house 83 Jed Smith Road. The
fee is $20 per person, and will cover infant, and adult First aid and
CPR. Please call Claudia if you are interested. 303-459-0208 I am not
sure of the times please contact Claudia. I am sorry I did not get
the notice out sooner. Please pass this along to any one who might be
interested.

PSA Weather Alert
Good morning, y'all,
It has been a loooong time since my last PSA, despite some great snows above 9K in the last two months. Too many downslope wind storms have left even the higher foothills below par (with the exception of good spill-over pockets like Nederland and Peaceful Valley), and at the base of the foothills, Boulder and Fort Collins have not even.....
 
continued at:
http://www.bar-k-ranch.com/psa.htm

Hi Friends...surgery's over and all went very well. After a fidgety week of bedrest, we got a clean bill of health and mama can start easing back into life next week. Baby Williams is doing just fine and we finally feel like we MIGHT ACTUALLY be having a baby this July!!! Thanks from the bottom of our hearts (and bellies) for all the kindness we've received, including coverage of our jobs, delicious meals, well-wishes, prayers, movies, visits, hugs, etc. We live in an extraordinary commUNITY and WE LOVE YOU!!

To all our dear friends & family:



It's hard to believe that only a year ago, we were headed to the hospital to lose our baby and now, such a short time later, we're headed for surgery to save this one. Tomorrow, a cerclage will be placed to ensure that we carry our baby to term, which will be done by the BEST doctors with the MOST experience in this realm. I will be in the hospital one night, then on complete bedrest for one week and laying low the following week. If the surgery heals well without infection or other problems, I will be able to return to normal activities, including work, by the end of this month. Hence, I won't be on bedrest throughout the whole pregnancy (unless something goes drastically wrong) and I won't need to take any inhibitive medication. Baby is healthy and normal size, due July 3rd. Mama and Papa are EXTREMELY RELIEVED that the immediate road ahead may be a little easier than first anticipated.



From the bottom of our hearts, we THANK ALL OF THE PEOPLE who have come forward so far to help us through this hard time. Thank you to ALL of the folks who solved my first huge dilemma by volunteering to work at Camp Jimtown so that January is fully covered and the program can stay open. Thank you to all of the parents for being willing to work within such a plan. Thank you to our BUD-DAY, Chad, for covering Tom's shifts at his job. Thank you to Cary Bush and her cohorts for ALREADY organizing meals at my bedside! Thank you to Andee and Amy for providing such strong support for me during these past few weeks of worry. I could go on and on...and I probably will in subsequent notes!



Suffice it to say right now that we appreciate EVERY BIT of love and support that EVERY PERSON has sent and will be sending our way, including good deeds, good vibes, prayers, etc. We'll keep you posted on our progress and after the first few initial days of recovery, visitors are always welcome. There's even been talk of a "BEDFEST" sometime in the future!



Peace and love from Laura, Tom, and BABY Williams

HELP! NOW HIRING!! Camp Jimtown's Director (Laura Williams) will need time off this semester for a high-risk pregnancy that requires surgery and bedrest.

GET PAID TO PLAY! Positions as CHILD CARE ASSISTANT are available Monday through Friday from 12-6 p.m. during school days only (excluding holidays, breaks, and district professional days off). The program is located at Jamestown Elementary School but is not affiliated with Boulder Valley School District. We serve kids age 5-10 and provide diverse and fun commUNITY activities. Previous childcare experience is preferred. Background check required. Feel free to apply even if you can only commit to SOME of the days needed. Interested applicants should visit the program during its hours of operation or contact Laura @ (303) 545-5502 as soon as possible.

PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD! If Camp Jimtown can't find help, the program is in jeopardy of closing for the semester!

Hey all, from England. We're doing as well as can be expected here. Being tough for sure. The boys wish they could be there tonight and these last days of school. They almost went to school here in England for a day but got too nervous about it. We'll be back in the new year. Wish all the kids and friend Merry Christmas for us. Break a leg tonight!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN 2005! We proudly present our annual Halloween Party in the JimTown Hall this Monday, Spooktober 31st featuring POTLUCK DINNER & GAMES with prizes at 4:30 p.m. followed by TRICK-OR-TREATING at 6 p.m. around Jamestown. JVFD members have volunteered to escort families around town again, which we greatly appreciate! Bring a dish to share & we hope to see you there...AH AH AH!

Afterwards, get spooked out at the Merc as DJ CHADZ spins a sound web with "Blair Witch Project!"

Hi Friends...just a reminder of your invitation to our HENNA TATTOO PARTY this Saturday, October 22nd in JimTown Hall from 2-5 p.m. for only $5 per tattoo! Bring your friends & family...all ages are welcome! Children under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult and all kids under age 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent/guardian. If you've always wanted to get a tattoo without the pain of needles OR you want something unique for Halloween this year, now's your chance! All proceeds benefit Camp Jimtown's snacks, supplies, and liability insurance. Thank you again for you support and we hope to tattoo you soon!

JIMTOWN 2006 CALENDAR!

1. Last chance to get your birthdays on there! Respond in the Birthday Boxes located at the Merc and Jamestown School, by e-mail to laura.williams@hotmail.com OR by calling (303) 545-5502 by Friday, October 14th!

2. AREA BUSINESSES, ARTISTS & GROUPS are invited to advertise for only $25 and we'll print your business card on our calendar...a small price for a whole year of advertising! Please contact Laura via e-mail or the phone # listed above by Friday, October 14th.

3. THANK YOU for your support!

Theater Event!
Bob Buckley and Todd from Jamestown will be appearing in a play portraying an AIDS support group in turmoil by Joe Pintauro, called "Raft of the Medusa" along with "Prelude and Liebestod" by Terrence McNally" an absurdist journey through the egotistical mind of a selfish conductor during a classical concert.

The plays open Friday October 7, and play Fridays and Saturdays, the 8th, the 13th and the 14th. A group from Jamestown will be going this Saturday. Both plays contain adult themes and language, and may not be appropriate for those under 17.

Tickets are $15 GA/ $12 seniors/students, and can be purchased at the box office: 303/440-7826, or online: https://tix.extremetix.com/tix/SilverStream/Pages/pgIndex.html?siteID=679.

The Chili Cookoff was a TREMENDOUS SUCCESS! We raised $530 for our little school and filled our bellies with awesome chili dishes, desserts, and drinks! And the winners are: First Prize to Dee Gustke for her "Chili Chicken Verde", Second Prize to Tom Williams for his "5-Alarm" red chili, and Third Prize to Aimee Jalowsky for her "Hearty Vegetarian" chili. Although the judges could only choose three, rest assured that every chili present was a winner in its own right!!

Special thanks to everyone who attended and supported this event by buying tickets, donating to the cause, making chili and desserts, and participating in set-up or clean-up! EXTRA special thanks to Beth Brotherton for her superb organization of the event!

Althea Cascardi (Her mom Laura works in the Merc) has Chicken Pox right now.
303-442-5847 Jamestown Mercantile

Well our last attempt to have our daughter catch chicken pox was a flop...darn that awesome immune system she has! :)

Any good cases of chicken pox around these days? We'd love to come visit and have a Chicken Pox Party!

~Jeff
(jeff@tigger.net)

I attended a District Parent Council meeting last night. The meeting covered the topics of Referenda C and D, the Mill Levy Override presentation, and the School Board Candidates forum. I won't go into the Referenda C and D and the Mill Levy other than to say I am for them. It stirs up controversy even in my own home.
The candidates were asked 6 questions. One of which was: What is your commitment to keeping the Mountain Schools open?
Leslie Smith said, This is a difficult topic, comprehensive education. I am concerned about the viability of the small mountain schools. They are expensive to run. We need to work towards trying to find a creative solution. I can't say I would keep them open.
SOL HALPERN on the other hand said this, Jamestown and Goldhill must be exempt from closure. Budget is priority, however a town isn't a town with out a school. This tears at the social fabric.
I hope that we all get out and vote for Sol Halpern!!!
The other two candidates are running unopposed and supported the Mountain Schools.

CHILI COOKOFF BENEFIT
For Jamestown Elementary

Help support the little school with the Big Heart!

Sunday, October 2nd at 3:00pm
at the Jamestown Town Hall
To Enter the contest just bring your Crockpot Full of Ready to Eat Chili to the Town Hall at 3:00 on Sunday
Prizes for Best Green Chili and Best Red Chili!
Veggie Chili of either persuasion welcome!
CHILI DINNER TO FOLLOW FROM 4:00-7:00 OR TIL THE CHILI RUNS OUT! $3.00 FOR KIDS- $6:00 FOR ADULT includes a drink and dessert!! Call Beth Brotherton 303-444-5053 for more information!

Ines et al.,

To follow along with most of the other elementary school mission statements, I guess I would recommend brevity. Seemed like the length of the mission statements being considered was the result of adding a lot of "how" we would achieve the mission into the statement.

I noticed on the web sites for the various schools that the mission statement should focus on the "product" - on describing what kind of student we want to produce.

On the web site, we could add below the mission statement how we would do that -- by using an integrated arts or place-based curriculum, by employing multi-age learning, by partnering with parents and community, by recognizing individual needs, by providing a safe, caring, and stimulating environment, etc..

Joe

Thanks Dedra for synthesizing the mission statement I came up with and adding your own words too! Have I met you yet?
 
To all who see this and have interest: We met at our PTO meeting last night and discussed what we liked about the misson statement examples we have so far. We are going to need more time to revise it a bit more. We have until October. Perhaps one evening we can meet: Joe Ryan, Dedra (if interested), David? and myself and anyone else interested in finalizing our mission. Not sure when or how yet but we can stay in touch!!

So the floor is still open for anyone to contribute any ideas!! Marlene, our principal, and I agreed that we need to keep or put in there "integrated arts curriculum" since multi-age learning definitely succeeds around a theme that is integrated throught writing, reading, math, art, etc. It makes sense and is what my background of education is in for me to implement such a curriculum. We'll probably omit "place-based" since there was confusion as to what that is and replace it with "community" somehow. What I meant by place-based education is using the community in our studies like inviting a local miner to come in and talk to us, hiking up to the mine and fitting that into Colorado history, exploring the flora/fauna and ecosystems of the foothills right where our school is! Connecting with the commmunity and natural environment right around us and addressing real problems or projects that students can be a part of resolving.
Okay I'm rambling...that's it for now..........Ines
Wow, we have 10 school days left!!!! I can't believe it!

2005 Jamestown School Slide Show Online:
http://www.bar-k-ranch.com/photos.htm

Here's my revision of Inez' mission statement. The lower case letters are additions.



THE MISSION OF JAMESTOWN ELEMENTARY is to create A SAFE, CARING AND
STIMULATING ENVIRONMENT WHERE MULTI-AGE LEARNING FLOURISHES. Our

CURRICULUM ENGAGES THE STUDENTS as individuals and citizens of the community, using that small world and the natural environment to help us teach about the larger world we live in. THE WHOLE CHILD IS HONORED AT OUR
SCHOOL AS WE USE OUR HEADS, HANDS, AND HEARTS to DEVELOP INTO

INTELLIGENT, COMPASSIONATE and CONFIDENT HUMAN BEINGS. TEACHERS
AND PARENTS ARE ACTIVE PARTNERS IN THE CHILD"S EDUCATION AND

TOGETHER WE COLLABORATE TO CREATE A CLIMATE OF RESPECT, SUCCESS

and JOY NECESSARY FOR LIFELONG LEARNING.

 





On 5/17/05 4:43 PM, "QT - Ines Rutkovskis"
<qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> wrote:

>
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hi Asa and David and Sal!
Wow, I finally am in on this community email thing! Sal and David, thanks so much for working on the slide show! It is awesome! Hi Asa! We still miss you guys! And David, I like what you have so far with the mission statement. I'm sending mine to Joe too. Here it is for now. It's kind of long which we'll definitely cut shorter.

THE MISSION OF JAMESTOWN ELEMENTARY NURTURES THE CONTINUING GROWTH OF CHILDREN"S KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THEMSELVES AND THEIR WORLD. OUR SCHOOL PROGRAM PROVIDES A SAFE, CARING AND STIMULATING ENVIRONMENT WHERE MULTI-AGE LEARNING FLOURISHES. WE RECOGNIZE THAT EACH CHILD IS UNIQUE AND ACCOMODATE THE BROAD RANGE OF CHILDREN"S NEEDS THROUGH AN INTEGRATED PLACE-BASED CURRICULUM THAT ENGAGES THE STUDENTS WITH THE SCHOOL"S COMMUNITY AND THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT. THE WHOLE CHILD IS HONORED AT OUR SCHOOL AS WE USE OUR HEADS, HANDS, AND HEARTS AND DEVELOP INTO INTELLIGENT, COMPASSIONATE and CONFIDENT HUMAN BEINGS. TEACHERS AND PARENTS ARE ACTIVE PARTNERS IN THE CHILD"S EDUCATION AND TOGETHER WE COLLABORATE TO CREATE A CLIMATE OF RESPECT, SUCCESS and JOY NECESSARY FOR LIFELONG LEARNING.

This is what I have so far! I feel I'd like to include the words: place-based education, community, integrated, successful, lifelong learning, diversity or multicultural, whole, nurture and growth........

Okay, any feedback?
Ines

Jamestown School End Of Year Show
Wednesday May 18 2005 6:30 PM at the school
Musical Performance
Japanese Puppet Show
Photo Slide Show
Dont Miss It !

Hey Asa. It's David here. Good to get word. I'd be happy to email you but need you email address. Mine is david(at)jimtown.org

Also, any comments on the Mission Statement thing? C'mon, this is cutting edge work we're doing here!! Thanks for you comment Choyti. Hopefully we'll get this done.

Asa
My email is sal(at)bar-k-ranch(dot)com
same for "karen" and "max"
What's your's ?

Sorry to bog down everyone on the list, but I lost a lot of email addresses. If you do email me, please include your private email and we can chat of this group bulletin board. So Sal, what's your email and I'll respond to you privately. :o) Asa

From: QT - Sal <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com>
Reply-To: QT topic 19-uHNSjCkMkVh7 <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> To: QT topic subscribers <qtopic+subs@quicktopic.com>
Subject: Jamestown Elementary
Date: 13 May 2005 03:09:08 -0000

< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hey Asa ! How are you guys ?
Got a sec ? go here:

http://www.bar-k-ranch.com/dinosaur.htm

Hey David, it's nice to have the pulse, so please don't take me off the list, however, would you please email me privately? -Asa

From: QT - David M <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com>
Reply-To: QT topic 19-uHNSjCkMkVh7 <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> To: QT topic subscribers <qtopic+subs@quicktopic.com>
Subject: Jamestown Elementary
Date: 12 May 2005 18:23:02 -0000

< replied-to message removed by QT >

I don't know if there have been any suggestions for the Mission Statement yet. I thought that this might be a good place to toss around some ideas. I put together something, what do you think?

The Mission at Jamestown Elementary School is to nurture and take advantage of the unique setting of the multi-age classroom. It is to recognize and encourage the characteristics of each student as an individual and as a member the school community. Our children will be encouraged to draw on all available resources from classmates, teachers, involved parents and their community to prepare themselves mentally and physically as students and citizens.

Here's BVSD's Mission (ours is meant to parallel): The Boulder Valley School District challenges students to achieve their academic, creative and physical potential in order to become responsible, contributing citizens.

Here's another example: Mission Statement:
At Aspen Creek K-8, we challenge, educate and empower our students by inspiring individual success. We will build a strong academic foundation in a safe learning environment, while encouraging ethical and social responsibility. Our child-centered partnership with families and community creates positive memories, nurtures dreams, and promotes life-long learning.

Maybe we can work this out here and relieve Joe of working out the whole deal.

Riley misses everyone so much. He is planning a visit in August so will be around. Please tell Maya that we still need to work on Flat Stanley. He's been sitting on our counter for way too long.

Love you all, Asa

From: QT - choti <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com>
Reply-To: QT topic 19-uHNSjCkMkVh7 <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> To: QT topic subscribers <qtopic+subs@quicktopic.com>
Subject: Jamestown Elementary
Date: 30 Apr 2005 20:28:02 -0000

< replied-to message removed by QT >

maya says hi to riley!

So, can we call in for this one? Ha-ha. Don't take me off this list though, it keeps me up with the pulse. All is well here, ran into Jill Sturdevant the day after you talked to her. Funny how small the world is. We all miss everyone there terribbly as adjustment never is easy. We hope to see you all soon, and the door is always open out here.

Asa

From: QT - David M <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com>
Reply-To: QT topic 19-uHNSjCkMkVh7 <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> To: QT topic subscribers <qtopic+subs@quicktopic.com>
Subject: Jamestown Elementary
Date: 8 Feb 2005 17:03:47 -0000

< replied-to message removed by QT >

Just a reminder, we have a PTO Meeting tonight, Tuesday the 8th. I believe it's food at 5:30 and Meeting at 6PM. See you there!

Take 3..
Please use these links for the various QT's
Bookmark them cause they are deliberately difficult to remember.

Bar-K Ranch Community Bulletin Board
http://www.quicktopic.com/16/H/tBkUdpwhPdua/

Jamestown Elementary School Bulletin Board
http://www.quicktopic.com/19/H/uHNSjCkMkVh7
 
Jamestown Community Bulletin Board
http://www.quicktopic.com/19/H/ttG9iqmEC2K

Looks like Pattio posted this message to Bar-K QT but meant for it to go here:

Hello Jamestown! Pat Willis from the band Patio that played at the Merc recently. I just wanted to thank you all for such a warm welcome, warm being the operative word considering how cold and snowy it was that night. I had resigned myself to a slow evening when all of a sudden we had a real nice, receptive crowd. Laura and Justin, who were working that night, really made us feel welcome with their smiling, ever helpful ways. Coming from Boulder, you just don't get to see a whole lot of that kind of goodness, especially in the cutthroat music scene. Thanks for the show Joey. At the risk of sounding like I am JUST here to promote a show, we are fortunate enough to be able to come back on Dec 18th, which I am very excited for as we met many great people that night and I look forward to seeing all again. We'll make it something of a Christmas show yah?! So again, thank you Jamestown, can't wait to get back. pat io

I've put together some flyers that we talked about posting around the various target neighborhoods for potential Open Enrollment students. They'll be at the school today so if you're able to pick them up with the kids that would be great. We need to get them out ASAP and I apologize for taking so long to put them together. Take what you think you can post but I did them off my printer so there's not 100's of them. If folks could let everyone know on the QT where they've posted them we can be sure to have covered the area.

Thanks, David

So I'm trying to get some stuff put together for the Open Enrollment day. I'm going to put together a flyer and hopefully have that by Friday for folks to take out and post. I've also updated the website, sorry Joe, I've been struggling to get things sorted out with the Webmaster at BVSD and finally just did it. Here's the link: http://www.bvsd.k12.co.us/schools/jamestown/index.html I would welcome any suggestions as to improvements/additions.

Anything else we need to do? I don't know if we want to try and have someone available on the 1st or just deal with a visitor if they come. Maybe we should make it a parent day to participate at school generally. Take shifts? Thanks, David

Hi guys this is our email address : brr@4dv.net, just thinking of you all today- Ninoska

David,

Sorry I forgot to call you back. It is 11:15p now and I didn't want to call so late. Please call me on my cell tomorrow at 303.859.3089 and we can work out the details. Talk to you soon.

-Asa


From: QT - David mans <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com>
Reply-To: QT topic 19-uHNSjCkMkVh7 <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> To: QT topic subscribers <qtopic+subs@quicktopic.com>
Subject: Jamestown Elementary
Date: 10 Jun 2004 00:45:44 -0000


_________________________________________________________________ MSN Toolbar provides one-click access to Hotmail from any Web page – FREE download! http://toolbar.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200413ave/direct/01/ < replied-to message removed by QT >

Notice: Very late notice: Whole Foods is doing a fundraiser for Jamestown tomorrow. They are selling meals from 4-6 and the money (all of it?) goes to Jamestown. They've asked for some volunteers to be there at 3 to help. Appearently Gold Hill made $500 last week, so it could be an easy couple of hours. I'm going to try and make it. They said that kids really help the enthusiasm. Give me a call for more info. I'd love the help. 459-0203

Wow! Thanks for the info Sal.


From: QT - Sal DeVincenzo <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> Reply-To: QT topic 19-uHNSjCkMkVh7 <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com> To: QT topic subscribers <qtopic+subs@quicktopic.com>
Subject: Jamestown Elementary
Date: 9 Jun 2004 13:19:59 -0000


_________________________________________________________________ Is your PC infected? Get a FREE online computer virus scan from McAfee® Security. http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963 < replied-to message removed by QT >

Harvard announces free tuition for families making less than 40k.

Please get this information into the hands of teachers, counselors, family advocates and others who come in contact with bright, and talented students from low and moderate income families.

If you know of a family earning less than $40,000 a year with an honor student graduating from high school soon, Harvard University wants to pay the tuition. The university recently announced that from now on undergraduate students from low-income families can go to Harvard for free...no tuition and no student loans!

To find out more about Harvard offering free tuition for families making less than $40,000 a year visit Harvard's financial aid web site at: The annoucement is on the front page.

http://adm-is.fas.harvard.edu/FAO/index.htm
or call the school's financial aid office at (617)495-1581.

Jamestown School 2004 End Of Year Slideshow Video Clip (Windows Media) Now Online (High Speed Internet Connection Suggested)
http://www.bar-k-ranch.com/movies.htm

A little Pacific sun for the snow people of Jamestown School
http://bar-k-ranch.com/hawaii.htm
Aloha

A little "off-topic"
Hello Everyone. With the new year comes new challenges and one of ours will be carpooling to Boulder as Max will probably(hopefully) be attending Whittier next school year.
It seems obvious that carpooling would be a welcomed "feature" of our community so we have signed up at the best rated online carpooling site http://erideshare.com (our id is "DeVincenzo") It takes about 2 minutes to sign up and I encourage you to consider this too. Its pretty cool you can get a ride virtually anywhere as well as carpool.

I picked up the Open Enrollment Posters from Robbin and will gladly give them out to anyone that is willing to post them. Robbin has posted a bunch over along Lee Hill so that's mostly covered. I'll make a trip to lower Left Hand in the next days and see where I can put them there.

Let me know, David Mans 459-0203

Hey All,

I know we agreed to get flyers up before Christmas and have seen one on the Bar-K news board. How do we get a hold of more so we can start pumping our surrounding communities? Time is a ticking and we are losing opportunity to enroll kids. I volunteer to post up some of these signs.

-Asa

_________________________________________________________________ Have fun customizing MSN Messenger — learn how here!
http://www.msnmessenger-download.com/tracking/reach_customize

Hey All,

I know we agreed to get flyers up before Christmas and have seen one on the Bar-K news board. How do we get a hold of more so we can start pumping our surrounding communities? Time is a ticking and we are losing opportunity to enroll kids. I volunteer to post up some of these signs.

-Asa

_________________________________________________________________ Have fun customizing MSN Messenger — learn how here!
http://www.msnmessenger-download.com/tracking/reach_customize

Jamestown School On The Radio !
Listen Here

http://www.bar-k-ranch.com/jamestown_school.htm

Guess I was not quick enough with last message as the segment aired at 8:15 but the file including Davin Mans and Martha Russo speaking about Jamestown Elementary will be available for listening or downloading after 9:30 today at the following addresses:
http://kgnu.net/audio/morn_mag/ for streaming version
http://kgnu.net/audio/morn_mag/data/ for downloadable version.

DAVID MANS SPEAKS ABOUT JAMESTOWN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL !
LISTEN LIVE KGNU FM RADIO RIGHT NOW 8:30 AM
http://www.kgnu.org/

88.5 BOULDER
93.7 WARD
89.1 FT COLLINS

From my friend Bob Burnham

The Colorado Symphony, Chorus and Children's Chorale will be doing a live Broadcast of their "Colorado Christmas" concert. tomorrow (wednesday) on Denver's Channel 4. 80 musicians, 300 singers live in Boettcher. Broadcast starts at 6:00pm with music downbeat at 6:30pm. About two hours long.

I will be doing the live music mix. Here's a chance to see/hear a bit of what I've been doing with the Symphony for the last 4 years.

It's a good show.

If you tune in I hope you enjoy.



peace and music to all,


bob e burnham

Posted By Sal For Mark Olsen in Bar-K:
All,

I live in the Bar-K and am a member of Colorado Friendship. We are a non-profit that supplies emergency assistance to disaster victims.
Our trailer will be in Jamestown this weekend and open Saturday and Sunday from 1-5PM. If you know anyone who lost their home and needs some of the following items please send them over. There is no charge for these items.
We will have blankets, pillows, toiletries, clothing (including new underwear) and footwear. IF winter clothing/footwear is needed and we don't have it in the trailer we will have it delivered once we know the sizes needed.

OK David thanks for the scoop. MArtha

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VOTE!!VOTE!!VOTE!!VOTE!!VOTE!!VOTE!!VOTE!!VOTE!!VOTE!!VOTE!!

Got to get ballots in next week, don't forget. And not to beat a dead horse but I'm going to beat it a bit here, we've got to do everything to try and get Jeff Hartman elected. I spent 1/2 hour with him the other day and he's great, not just as an alternative to Angelika Schroeder but as a potential Board Member, period.

It would be great if any one's able to send money, he's still hoping to get enough to run an ad. But even more important is getting the word out. I would hope that everyone would contact at least 10 people and remind them to vote for Jeff. Do it by email, phone or telling them. Tell the bank clerks, the cashier's, the guy's hustling in the medians! Let's get the word out.

Thanks, it matters.

Re: School Board Elections and Jamestown Elementary

Sorry to those on multiple Bulletin Boards, this will be repetative.

I've had a lot of folks asking how the SOS forum with the School Board Candidates went last week. It was great, very informative. As far as the concerns specific to Jamestown and the Mountains and the Board Candidates that might best address them, I think that it's fairly simple. SOS has endorsed a few of the candidates and I generally agree with them.

Here's their plan,
District A - Helayne Jones (against Frank Lutz)
District C - Jeff Hartman (against Angelica Schroeder)
District D - Ken Roberge (against, I don't remember his name)

So in District A I think most up here have generally preferred the idea of Frank Lutz over Helayne. He was the only candidate that stood and spoke out strenously against the school closures. I think that we'll be OK with Helayne but Frank does seem more bold vote for this District.

In District D, Ken seems great and has already visited Jamestown twice. He's retired with enough time on his hands to really put into the position. He doesn't seem like he'll be a pushover and likes the idea of maintaining interesting schools. He's a good candidate.

The most important race is in District C, between Jeff Hartman and Angelika Schroeder. Angelika is the incumbent and she has it out for us. She voted for all the school closures last year and has suggested that there is work unfinished. She had no sympathy for Jamestown and even told me last spring that when they closed Jamestown that we'd, "get over it". ANGELIKA SCHROEDER MUST NOT RETURN, PERIOD!

And Jeff Hartman is great. There was another candidate that bowed out and now supports Jeff. Jeff's got a good chance but needs a lot of help. He has yet to spend any money on his campaign although he's already spent a lot of time out visiting and learning. He said straight out that closing schools is not an option. He's smart and motivated. Everyone liked him a whole lot. But the big problem now is getting known and beating Angelika which will be tough, she's got money and a big advantage as the incumbent.

JEFF HARTMAN NEEDS DONATIONS, NOW! He's finally formed a committee and can accept donations towards signs and other advertisement. This matters very much to us. I'm going to put up $50 bucks for this guy, I feel that he is that important for our future up here. If everyone can put up something, $20 bucks would be great, it will make a big difference.

If you can't do money then lets do the campaigning. I'm going to get some signs so we can stick those out. Even more important is to TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW TO VOTE FOR JEFF HARTMAN. We'll be OK if they forget every other name, although Frank counts too, but Jeff is key. Send out emails, talk to friends, coworkers etc. I know this seems a bit like an over reaction I'm sure but Angelika Schroeder must not be on the Board for the next 4 years. If she is, they will, without a doubt, try and close us again.

This matters as much as the fight last spring. So lets try and do this. If folks want to give me a check I can pass it on or send it straight to his campaign.

Make checks out to: (make sure to include your name, address, and occupation for his campaign recordkeeping)

The Committee to Elect Jeff Hartman
1425 Ithaca Drive
Boulder, CO 80305-6927
303-543-3814
hartmanforbvsd@hotmail.com

Thank you everyone for listening and caring. David Mans

I will be out of the office starting October 7, 2003 and will not return until October 13, 2003.

For urgent matters please contact Jon Norton 8/582-6802 except for the AM of 10/9 when you should contact Randy Willis at 8/379-9939

All Points Bulletin. A late notice that there is a School Board Candidate Forum tonight! At the Boulder High School Auditorium from 6-9 PM. It would be great to get some folks down there. I'll be going and will report back on who sounds like what. Hope to see you there!

David Mans

Collen Williams may have one.


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Does anyone have a dog bark control collar we can borrow to see if it works on Lady ?
Please call if you do.
303-459-3359
Sal

I will be out of the office starting August 1, 2003 and will not return until August 11, 2003.

For urgent matters please contact Randy Willis 8/379-9939

FOR SALE

SEXY,RED MAZDA MIATA CONVERTIBLE .
PERFECT FOR YOUR MID-LIFE CRISIS! (WORKED FOR ME)
1 OWNER/HARD TOP/SOFT TOP/COVER/AIR BAG/AC/PS/CD
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MINT CONDITION INSIDE AND OUT AND FRONT TO BACK !
ABSOLUTE DELIGHT TO DRIVE UP THE CANYON
$5495.00 BUT I WILL HAGGLE SOME.
STOP BY THE HOUSE FOR A TEST DRIVE.
OR CONTACT ME 303-459-3359 OR sdv@qwest.net

FOR SALE

NIKON CP 5000 5 MEGA PIXEL DIGITAL CAMERA PACKAGE DEAL
TONS OF ACCESSORIES (BATTERIES, MEDIA CARDS, LENSES, HARD CASE, ETC.)OVER $2000.00 INVESTED, LISTED ON EBAY NOW FOR $1200,00 -WILL SELL EVERYTHING FOR $1099.00
INTERESTED ?
CONTACT ME 303-459-3359 OR sdv@qwest.net

PHIL ARTER
FUNERAL SERVICE
Thursday, April 24th 1:30 pm
St. Andrews Presbyterian Church
3700 Baseline, Boulder

Disturbing News. Our dear friend and neighbor Phil Arter passed away last night. No other details at this point but it seems he had an asthma attack. I will try to find out more and pass along any additional information. Sal

Hey All! Good for Jamestown, a bunch of good news on Tuesday. Schools Open, Roads Closed. Whew, what a session. Let's not forget though that the work's not over. When this current slaying is over we need to regroup and get with the School Board to put together a real program. I think that we need to pin them down contractually to a real and reasonable standard for Jamestown and Gold Hill. Somehow we've got to get some security for our future so we can keep kids involved and commited to the school.

I also think that we need to start really promoting our school. Not hire some New York Publicity firm, just talk it up, maybe get a package together to get out to prospective families. We've got a lot to offer, they need to hear about it.

Joe, as far as the Attendance area I do think we need to try and revisit that. Bar-K used to be in the Jamestown area but it was changed to ensure that the then new Nederland Elementary would have enough kids. I think we should have a look at it though.

Interesting links Dedra. "King George" wasn't overly popular in Tuscon. Sounds like he got run off for consistently making sure he was paid while teachers and others went without. Hmmm.

Let's not forget to email the board with thank you's, to those that voted for us anyway. And remember that Mapleton and now Whittier are still on the table for closure Tuesday. Send letters if you can, it'll all help and they sure helped us.

Those that voted for us: Teresa Steele, Stan Garnett, Bill De La Cruz and Julie Phillips: bill.delacruz@bvsd.k12.co.us; julie.phillips@bvsd.k12.co.us; teresa.steele@bvsd.k12.co.us; sgarnett@BHF-Law.com

Hey, thinking ahead, do you think we can get the subdivisions up here -- Bar-K, etc. -- which have Ward street addresses "re-districted" so that the default school is Jamestown and not Nederland? Are Raymond and Riverside in the Jamestown district?

Just in case you felt like doing a little reading up on how Tucson felt about our Superintendant, George F. Garcia...

http://www.tucsonweekly.com/tw/1999-12-16/skinny.html
http://www.tucsonweekly.com/tw/1999-11-25/skinny.html
http://www.tucsonweekly.com/tw/03-11-99/curr2.htm

I'm sure there are more, but surf's out for my day.

IF OTHER LINK DOES NOT WORK THIS ONE SHOULD
http://www.dailycamera.com/bdc/local_news/

JAMESTOWN SCHOOL WINS 4-3 VOTE AND WILL REMAIN OPEN !
TRY THIS LINK-
http://www.thedailycamera.com/bdc/schools/...488_1892579,00.html

Thank you David for your incredible support for the school.

Photos from yesterdays rally at Mapleton can be seen here

http://www.bar-k-ranch.com/School_Rally/index.htm

If anyone has a contact to send photos to the Daily Camera please let me know. sdv@qwest.net

Edited by author 04-15-2003 01:09 AM
HAVE YOU SENT YOUR EMAIL TO THE SCHOOL BOARD?

Clock's a tickin'. I hope that most folks have managed to send at least one email. This is key, they are reading them and we don't have much time left to persuade the Board. Do this now if you can. Here are the Board's email addresses: (teresa.steele@bvsd.k12.co.us); (bill.delacruz@bvsd.k12.co.us); (sgarnett@BHF-Law.com); (jean.paxton@bvsd.k12.co.us); (julie.phillips@bvsd.k12.co.us); (angelika.schroeder@bvsd.k12.co.us)

If you need some motivation or ideas, here are snipits from a couple of letters. And remember that Julie and Teresa have expressed their support and all of them have had lots of mail:

"We are writing to express our strong support for keeping the Jamestown school open. We are new homeowners and were attracted to Jamestown by the unique and community-based school for our child (now 2 years old) in the years to come. The Jamestown school serves as a lifeline for the community and provides quality education. Kids are not merely students at the Jamestown Elementary School, but are members of the community and do not 'fall through the cracks' as children are more likely to do in larger contexts.

The proposed alternative proposed by the BVSD Staff is unacceptable. Alternate full days for kindergardners would be extremely taxing for children that age. The amount of time on buses would diminish opportunities for our children to participate in extra curricular activities. We urge you not to close a school that has been an educational success since its inception.

We recognize the School District's need to cut costs and to make schools more efficient. However, Jamestown School currently has over 26 confirmed students enrolled for next year. This number far surpasses the stated goal by Board Members of having over 20 students for school efficiency. Regardless, it is far more acceptable to look at 3-5 year enrollment averages for the Jamestown school.

We are dedicated to the Jamestown School and are willing to would work with you to cut our budget and find ways to assist in any way other than the closing of our school.

We respectfully urge you to consider the impact of closing the school on the community and to the kids in and around Jamestown." OR ANOTHER:

"As of today, Jamestown has a confirmed 26 students for 2003-2004, well above your target efficiency number of 21 suggested, discussed and agreed upon last Thursday. We have spoken to a number of the Board Members who have been surprised and persuaded by this current number. It is unfortunate, first, that a brief effort on the part of the Staff finally established such a number and second, that they were working with figures that were inaccurate. We feel that this has been cleared up and Jamestown should be comfortably within the target enrollment (our adjusted enrollment with 4 incoming Kindergartners is 24).

With regard to Cost Savings, we would also question how the district plans on accommodating the Upper Left Hand kids who would be bussed to Nederland? Any additional bus route would certainly negate a large amount of projected savings. Furthermore, your transportation coordinator, Bob Young, anticipates a $7,000 increase in bussing costs just to get Jamestown Attendance area kids to the Crestview option. That comes right of the top of the savings number. With regard to other small but significant $ savings, we have had volunteers step up to offer services for maintenance, custodial, or other positions. We are aware that there are issues here but we’ll help to work them out. And when discussing your potential savings, there are 7 kids dedicated to home schooling that have been before, plus at least 3 that promise to, in the next year alone! That’s 10 kids or $58,000 off the top lost to Home Schooling!

In looking at the whole picture a decision on the most recent Staff suggestions seems difficult to justify. BVSD has directed an investigation into Closure Scenarios for nearly two years. A huge, involved and time consuming Public Meeting process was conducted. Considerations were presented to the Board by the Facilities Committee. One week ago the “Staff” was asked for recommendations. All the work of the Facilities Committee and Public Meetings seems to have been largely disregarded in a single day when the staff changed the Mountain Scenario (Jamestown to Crestview, changing the Nederland boundaries) and made a recommendation that is difficult to surmise from the Facility Considerations. The Board then basically accepted or leaned toward accepting these recommendations. It feels that the process is incomplete. It seems that Mr. De La Cruz’s suggestion to hold off and study both the results of prior closings (have they worked?) and study ALL the options when considering further cuts would be the most prudent course.

At the least a Closure cannot occur for this coming year. In the first place, we have the enrollment numbers to justify our staying open and the numbers look good for the next few years. You have a growing number of young families in our area plus a very dedicated citizen population. Further, to make a decision for the following year would put our Children at a distinct disadvantage in their options for next year. Despite a promise of holding OE seats, a call to Whittier on Friday resulted in the instruction that any OE students coming from the Closure Schools would be put at the top of the waiting lists. Certainly the options for our Kids enrolled in Jamestown (Mapeleton, Washington?) would be limited compared to those with OE options from months ago. Also we would have no opportunity to come up with alternatives with regard to keeping the school an Elementary. We have a lot of folks dedicated to keeping an Elementary in Jamestown who will be exploring various options such as Charter, Private, or a recently debated (approved?) State Voucher system. There is no way that we can respond to a closure in a few months and come up with a viable Elementary Option.

There has been some concern expressed about the OE circumstance contributing to a disruption of an efficient feeder system. From a quick poll and assessment over the weekend we feel that a detailed investigation would show that the children from Jamestown end up in numerous Middle and High Schools after Jamestown including Nederland, Centennial and others.

We need to agree on some sort of reasonable assessment process before any school is entered in another round of Closure Threats. Enrollments should be based on a “rolling 5-year average” or something like it. A target may be set and monitored over a period of time to determine enrollments. Tangible data should be used when exploring the Attendance Area population thus enrollment trends and futures.

Bottom line, this is too important a decision to A) Rush into, B) Base on mis-information. Please consider all the facts (derived from the most thorough research possible) when making you decision in the week to come. Our small schools work, they are effective, efficient and much loved places to grow, learn and thrive. The goal of our school system should be to educate as well as possible, not simply process our children."

We asked a lawyer friend about two issues, (1) the poor timing of this process (i.e., after open enrollment, with no time consider other options after the decision would be made) and (2) the distance of the bussing. The friend referred us to a Boulder lawyer familiar with school issues, and she did not want to get involved in any way since she works in Boulder, but she gave us a list of school issue lawyers in Denver. Martha called them all today.

The only lawyer she got on the first set of calls is actually a lawyer working for BVSD! "Off the record," he said that a case could be made that the poor timing damages the childrens' education by limiting choice and that there is precedent for suing school districts over lengthy and potentially hazardous bussing.

Another lawyer returned Martha's call later today and said basically the same thing. He is interested in working with small communities and interested in working on the case. He even gave some rates for a group of plaintiffs (not cheap...). The first step, he said, would be to wait to see if BVSD votes to close the school. If that happens, he'd come up to Jamestown and talk to the affected families.

Hey all. Good Rally. At least you can make some noise huh?!

We should keep sending the emails to the Board. I still think they are reading them especially if they have a good subject and are relatively to the point and not too involved. At this point I don't think they've got a lot of extra time to carefully a pile of long messages but they do seem to being paying attention.

Our strongest card right now is that we have 26 students enrolled for next year. They discussed at length on Thursday that the target for an efficient school is an enrollement of 21 or better. We've got the 26 with 24 if you adjust for Kinders=1/2. So make sure to make that point at the least.

I'm wondering if anyone's signed up to speak tomorrow at the School Board Meeting? At this point I'm not sure what slots we're going to have to speak and I think this might be key. Any one who even vaguely might speak at the meeting on the 22nd should call and sign up. It's more important to get on the list then not, we can always trade minutes. If anyone is signed up for tomorrow, get a hold of me at (303)459-0203 or drmans@qwest.net

Otherwise, let's stay on it and beat this rap.

David Mans

An important bill is soon to become state law in Colorado supporting school
voucher programs. This may or may not be an option to look into on the Jamestown school situation-- but might be worthwhile taking a look at...

While the voucher program is designed to benefit low household income children (who might face an undesirable schooling situation due to their neighborhood or poor), it might be worthwhile looking into legal justification and application of this from the standpoint of the
undesirable impact/situation for the school kids in Jamestown. Gov. Owens has pushed for this to provide " access to a quality education for every child". I don't think a 45 minute mountain-road bus ride from Bar-K to
Crestview or Ned, constitutes "access". Last June, the Supreme Court ruled that school voucher programs are
constitutional if they provide parents a choice among a range of religious and secular schools. The court endorsed a pilot program in Cleveland under which parents may use a tax-supported education stipend to move their kids out one of the nation's worst-rated public school systems.
If the voucher amounts per student for all the Jamestown students were applied together, it might be enough annually, to run a small private school for 20 or so students [perhaps, where it is right now].Additionally, the aggregated voucher stipend $$ amount could be enough
leverage to offset any cost savings Boulder County Schools would achieve (i.e. funding NOT going back into their operating budget) to put their school-closing plans for Jamestown into moth balls for a while...
Just a thought...
All the best,
Mark Anton

  |be: 1)Home School, 2)Private, 3)Charter(if seats are
  |available), 4)Moving, 5)Stay with BVSD.

We don't know. (By the way, why did they bother having open enrollment for schools they might close???) BVSD says they will do another open enrollment, but I wonder how many seats will be left -- seems like we would get the last choice for BVSD schools.

We wouldn't be home-schooling. It's too late to get into any private schools, I would guess. We're not moving. We don't want have Odelia (and then Henry) to go to Nederland every day (too much time on the bus, too great a distance to drive -- Bar-K -- Ned -- Boulder -- Ned -- Bar K for me). We would support an effort to do a charter in Jamestown (still a possibility?). If that were not to happen, we would stay in BVSD, trying to find a place in one of the Boulder elementary schools.

  |Second, we need to get together a list of up and coming
  |kids, one that will be using the school in the next

We have Henry coming to kindergarten age in the 2004-2005 school year.

  |Other than that, we need ideas for creating some
  |dramatic attention.

How about inviting BVSD Board members to take the Jamestown -- Ned bus ride, back and forth, and lecture them about how little time our children would spend at home after that commute.

Joe Ryan

David,
Regarding the rally, I would be willing to help the children make signs Monday morning. We could, if we had parent drivers, drive down to Boulder and join Mapleton. I would need permission slips signed beforehand. It might be good publicity to see a large crowd from Jamestown.
-Jen

Anyone know any attorney's that might be able to lend a hand on this School effort? It might be nice to have one in the wings.

We cannot count on having until the 22nd to present our arguments, word is they're leaning towards voting on the 15th, Tuesday.

Thanks for the response. Don't know anything about the voucher idea. Can you look into that Tisha and get back?

There is a 6PM meeting on Tuesday. Here is the BVSD description: "April 15, 2003 - Tentative Special Board Meeting - 6 p.m. - Space in the board room is reserved for those who wish to address the board. Overflow seating with a live video feed will be in Conference Room 1, 2 and the Library Conference Room. This meeting WILL NOT be televised live in any of our communities. However, a taped rebroadcast will be shown on Boulder's Channel 8, Friday night at 6 p.m., and Saturday at 12 noon. The meeting will also be rebroadcast in Broomfield, Thursday night at 7 p.m." So we should have attendance. To address the Board call the secretary soon at 303-447-5114 to schedule it. I've done it twice, it would be great to get some other folks signing up. It would also be good to get as many people there as we can although I don't know how increased visibility there will help but can't hurt.

Also there is a rally being organized by SOS on Monday: "At the close of the school day on Monday, April 14th, students, parents, teachers and neighborhood residents plan to "stand out" in front of several highly visible public schools currently targeted for closure. SOSBV invites all other public schools in the District to participate in solidarity. "A big piece of our current dilemma is the size and fragmentation of our district," say Ms. Lang, a writer, former teacher and school administrator with two children in BVSD. "SOSBV is working to establish an inclusive communication system between schools, and a voice for the school communities in local leadership and legislature."

Let's stay on it.

The Meyer family would home school or private school-does anyone know the status on the use of school vouchers-are they available yet? This would be a big way that BVSD would lose revenue if they close our school.
What time is the meeting on the 15th and are community members allowed to attend that meeting and provide input? I would think it is crucial for many of us to be there. Has the board or any members of the board come to Jamestown since this debate started? Are they willing to explore other cost saving methods vs. closure? Thanks for keeping us posted. The
Meyers:mwmtgm@aol.com

We would home school, or move.




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In the effort to keep our school, we're trying to get all our info together with the hopes of meeting with members of the Board and persuading them with our reality.

First we need to get reponses from currently enrolled families on what it is they feel they would do if they had to find an alternative for next year. If everyone could weigh in with where they would likely end up. Choices would be: 1)Home School, 2)Private, 3)Charter(if seats are available), 4)Moving, 5)Stay with BVSD. I'm going to put together a tally, something that we can use to create a dollar loss to the District.

Second, we need to get together a list of up and coming kids, one that will be using the school in the next years. We also need the same info for these folks, what will they be considering if the School Closes.

Other than that, we need ideas for creating some dramatic attention. None of us feels that it's time yet for the "hate mail" although we do only have a few days. There seems to be a realistic concern that the Board might decide to hurry up the vote and do it Tuesday. EVERYONE needs to weigh in on this, today.

Thank You,

Bad news folks. We've gone from a fairly reasonable hope that we were OK with the Board on Tuesday to a Staff recommendation of Closing Jamestown and the general agreement on the part of the Board tonight. In other words, we've got a lot of work to do in the next few days if we want to keep our school. Stark, depressing and not very encouraging but there we are.

I've got a number of things that I think we need to research. Whoever can help and get some figures together please step up. We need everyone's help. Letters will still be useful but we need to focus our attentions in a big way.

Hate to be on the pessimistic side of things but we're on the verge of losing our community as we know it. Let's beat this or at least go down kicking and screaming.

So I'm going to try and summarize the notes I took on where the Board stands right now. Everyone should also check out the Save Our Schools website it's really great and has a lot of info. The following link is to the page that also summarizes the Board Members positions:
  http://www.sosbouldervalley.org/NOTESBVSDBOARDMEET20030401.htm

Here's basically what I took away last night specifically about the mountain schools. Remember, I'm only learning these folks' names, I don't claim to know what they are thinking. The following members seem basically sympathetic to the Mountain Schools:

Bill De La Cruz: Wants to know the goals. Wants analysis from prior consolidations and whether we've solved any problems with those consolidations voting for more. Feels that there's got to be a way to integrate the ideas from the community into the solution. Generally feels like he's not willing to vote for (any?) closures at this time, wants a more thorough assesment and plan.

Teresa Steele: She said that "we need to split out the Mountain Schools, I'm sorry that they have to be dragged into this." Obviously encouraging. She's pro neighborhood schools and doesn't want to split up the children populations or groups.

Stan Garnett: Very much wants to vote on the 22nd, doesn't want to postpone this. Appearently said at a previous meeting, “I don’t support the mountain scenarios”. He said something along these lines last night but I don't have it written down. He wants more concrete recommendations from the staff.

Janusz Okolowicz: Sounds like he's going to vote for some closings, feels that this is a necessity. However, he's after "bang for the buck" and doesn't want to wast time on things that won't pay. About Mountain Schools he says he's willing to listen but don't think they're worth spending time on. But again: “everybody knows we have to close some buildings” “[small schools] don’t have comprehensive programs”.

Julie Phillips: Not sure where she's at. Had a very interesting comment which we need to understand. She said that she feels that Gold Hill and Jamestown are not the same issue and wishes to debate them seperately. So far do not understand this reference. Expressed strong support and concern for neighborhood schools, central Boulder schools, and impact on neighborhoods and community. Seems to be paying attention to the concerns.

Definately need persuasion:
Jean Paxton: Sounds very committed to some closures. Still has a lot of questions. Feels like they've got to clean up the "feeder systems", appearently streamline and make more obvious the school order as in this elementary to this middle to this high school(?). Also believes in Admin reform.

Angelika Schroeder: Going for the closures. Feels like Jamestown and Gold Hill are draining open-enrollment kids from Nederland. Will be the most healthy thing to get them back in their district and to Nederland. Feels like they're just extending the pain if they don't close all these schools, it's inevitable down the road. Points out how 7 of 14 kids in Jamestown's Boundries open-enrolling out. (Anyone know the details of this?) Not sure how much persuasion it will take but still worth the effort?

That's the story. I feel like we need to stay on it although I think we're in pretty good shape. If we can get a little more confirmation from the meeting tomorrow on where everyon's at and then address comments to them directly it can only help. Let's not forget to include the other affected schools, they're seriously concerned and have been wonderful in including us in all their efforts.

LET'S KEEP IT UP!!! David Mans

Apologize for the following long message but we've not got long to go before the school closure issue is resolved for this season and I think that there's still work to do.

There is some feeling that Jamestown and Gold Hill are sitting fairly well at this stage. I'd like to think so also but after hearing some specific comments at the Board Meeting last night, I don't think our work is done. There is a good chance that there will be closures, which will effect us regardless. We need to make a strong stand to be certain Jamestown's not on the list.

My feeling is that we can finally learn where individual Board Members stand and try and focus a final campaign with individual members. If anyone can attend the Working Session it's tomorrow April 10th at 5:30 PM at the Education Center, 6500 E. Arapahoe Ave. I think if we can get someone to go and take notes on where these guys are specifically it will be a big help. At this point Sather is going to go and I'm going to try and make it but any and all ears will be useful.

Will continue in another message, David

A late reminder of the PTO Meeting tonight. It's a potluck at 5:30. See you there!

There's also another School Board Meeting down at the Board's Meeting room on Arapahoe, tomorrow (Tuesday) at 6PM. I found the meeting a few weeks ago very interesting, it's nice to hear the Board speak for a change. If anyone wants to go down from here let me know, I might be into carpooling.

David Mans

I will be out of the office starting April 2, 2003 and will not return until April 7, 2003.

For urgent matters please contact Mark Vitanza at 8/855-1016

A classic Jamestown fundraiser to benefit Tom Rabbitt is planned for Sunday April 6 (tomorrow) from 2-6 PM at the Town Hall. Food, Music & Refreshments will be provided.
Tom Rabbitt is facing serious health problems from cancer. Suggested cash donations are $20 for adults and $5 for children. You may also donate baked goods or a service for the raffle-bake sale. Additional information available from robert.hastings@earthlink.net Tom is a good friend and master sculptor and painter whose work has been shown in numerous galleries and private collections. To see some of his art work visit http://www.wordcrafters.biz/rabbitt/art.html
Hope you can help make this event a huge success !

NO SCHOOL TODAY !

Hello All, so to keep on track with the school closure deal, there's a rally at the School Board Meeting tomorrow. It would be great to get some folks down there. I've signed up to speak at the public forum in the beginning. It certainly seems that turning our focus toward the School Board will be important at this point. I think there's some newer info about the District Budget on their website but I haven't had a chance to have a look yet, anyone else?

Check out this website organized by some folks in Boulder. They're getting quite a bit of info posted, including a notice about tomorrow's meeting.

www.sosbouldervalley.org


Here's the message from one of the organizers of the Rally tomorrow:

Calling all who's down in whoville!

Just a friendly reminder to COME TO THE SOS RALLY TOMORROW and invited all you know to join us! At the very least it should be alot of fun! Don't forget your cameras, kazoos, drums, and most important SIGNS, BANNERS AND POSTERS! Not sure if there is still room to speak to the board but call the secretary at 303-447-5114 if you are moved to do so.

TUESDAY, MARCH 11TH, 5PM-6PM AT 6500 E ARAPAHOE AVE, HERE IN BOULDER! IT WILL ONLY TAKE AN HOUR OF YOUR TIME, BUT COULD CHANGE THE LIVES OF THOUSANDS OF KIDS!

I don't think we would have to lose anybody on staff because a charter school is still part of the BVSD school district. The difference is more autonomy, more control over our own budget, and more work. I don't think we'll be closed now, but chances are BVSD will always look to closing mtn. schools whenever there are budget problems. I think of a charter school as one possible preventative measure...maybe.

Though I think it prudent to explore all options and possibilities, my thoughts about a charter school are:

1. I've "heard" that they are a tremendous amount of work (which may or may not be an issue)
2. I'm assuming we would lose Jen because of her tenure with BVSD (Jen?)...and what about Kael? In my opinion, the school is what it is mainly because of these two women.
3. I don't think we're going to have to resort to that. I think the school will remain open.

I am VERY interested in a possible charter school option. I have alot of information - a handbook on starting a charter school, financial info, grant info, etc. I can give it to anyone else interested on CD-Rom or floppy. Just let me know. monrovia_74@msn.com or 303-417-1834.

There is a gentleman named Parker Fowler who seems to be an expert on Charter schools. He would be willing to come to our community and Gold Hill on a Monday or Tuesday evening to educate us on the process and definitions of what a charter school is all about. Anyone interested? BTW, did we set a time for our next PTO Meeting? If so, when is it? I feel it's time to regroup and discuss our next set of options.

_________________________________________________________________ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*.
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On the home front... I was supposed to have attended a meeting on Thursday with about 6 other school reps at the Capitol with a number of our State Representatives, including Tom Plant. Unfortunately it was postponed due to the illness of a couple of the Reps. I have been meeting with a group that's heading up an effort called Save Our Schools. Not too original a name but a great group. There's about 20 folks that have participated and are trying to keep up the energy that started with the Community Meetings. It seems like a good bunch with a lot of great ideas and energy. I'll keep you posted on any developments that we could make use of.

Meanwhile, we need to keep the pressure on it would seem. Letters, emails, any media attention. Good for us so far on the effort.

Hello everybody.

I will be there tonight. I am going primarily to listen to your thoughts and hear how the board responds, but I would like to meet with you to discuss the options that are available to the Jamestown and Gold Hill communities if the board should close the two schools. It seems like closure is neither in the best interests of the parents nor the students. Nor the school district for that matter.

Thanks for contacting me.

Sincerely,
Tom Plant
State Representative
House District 13

I spoke to our representative, State Senator Joan Fitz-Gerald. She told me that she was very concerned about the proposed school closings and that she spoke to board member Stan Garnett. He told her that he doesn't think there's the political will on the board to close the mountain schools.

While that statement is hopeful, I don't suggest doing anything differently, nor did Joan. I invited her on short notice to Nederland to hear for herself what people have to say but she has another commitment.

Good Evening...
I emailed our State Representative Tom Plant (former Jamestown resident as you may know) and asked him for advice on our meeting in Nederland (thats where Tom lives now so maybe he will be attending this meeting)I copied that email below and also have included a quote from him and a link to his webpage. See you all in Ned !

Quote from Representative Tom Plants webpage:

The greatest legacy we can pass on is an educated
generation. I am committed to a strong, vibrant, challenging and rewarding educational system in Colorado.
Based on interviews I have conducted with several area educators, parents and administrators, I have identified several areas we need to address at once in order to improve our public school system:go to the website here:

http://www.tomplant.org/education.html

Copy of email:

Hi Tom,
As you probably know the fate of small schools in Boulder County is at risk and Jamestown Elementary is one of the targeted schools that may be closed. There is an important meeting in Ned tomorrow night (Wed) at the High School at 6:00 PM. Many Jamestown residents will be there and I was wondering if you had any additional advise to give our speakers, (all of whom have become very persuasive speakers due to this issue) or if you would be there. We have a Jamestown School Bulletin Board set up which I invite you to subscribe to and reply to this message at this web address --->

http://www.quicktopic.com/19/H/uHNSjCkMkVh7/
 
Thanks for any help with this issue,
Sal DeVincenzo

Hey all,

A few things:

1) I have heard rumor that there will be childcare available at the Ned Meeting tomorrow night.
2) I think it would prove to be highly valuable to have our kids present and perhaps speak at the meeting. Please speak to your children about the importance of the meeting and bring them if possible.
3) I spoke with Mr. George Johnson who is on the Facilities Planning Committee and he recommended that we focus on three points: the bussing issue, the fact that many of us will pull our kids out of BVSD and homeschool, and lastly the fact that it is rumored that Jamestown School and Gold Hill were given to BVSD with a promise from BVSD to keep the schools open.
4) Please email bounds@dailycamera.com (Amy Bounds, Journalist for Daily Camera) and request her presence at the Ned meeting. I think we will really need some good media coverage present to drive our points home to the Boulder Community and school board. Again, Mr. Johnson provided me with her email.
5) Pick two topics that are most important to you to speak on at the meeting. Be clear, concise and have numbers ready to back up your claims. Unfortuantely, dollars talk.

See you all there. Feel free to call me at home to discuss strategies for the meeting. 303.459.3550

-Asa





>From: QT - Heidi Kummli <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com>
>Reply-To: QT topic <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quicktopic.com>
>To: soulevolution@hotmail.com
>Subject: Jamestown Elementary
>Date: 24 Feb 2003 18:06:37 -0000
>


_________________________________________________________________ The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Hi all,

Might I hitch a ride from someone to the school meeting in Ned Wednesday? Can meet you at Merc, your place, my place, on the county road near my place (towards Jimtown from the Bar K), whatever. Would prefer to stay for dinner afterwards, but can likely sort that out once I get there. Thanks!

(And don't worry. I've got my speech down well under half an hour so far.... )

Glenn Short
Crystalline Acoustics LLC
PO Box 346
302 Bramer Road
Jamestown, CO 80455-0346
(303) 459-0120
GlennShort@AOL.com

You can drop the kids off at 5:30 and maybe pick them up no later than 10:00 ? Hopefully they would all be passed out by then. Supply us with toothbrushes and PJs.Heidi

Here's the online version of the RM News article. For those that have seen the print version, I wonder if this is the whole enchilada? Lot of work for comparatively few words. Sounds good though. Here's the link:

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/educ...957_1766305,00.html

Edited by author 02-24-2003 02:06 PM
Somehow there had been word that there would be child care at the High School also. Does anyone know about that rumor?

Lot of mostly good press everday. It's great to have so much exposure out there. Still haven't seen anything more substantial from Bernie & the Rocky Mtn News.

Thanks, Heidi.....we may take you up on that...we'll let you know (How late is too late?... can you give us a time frame?)
As I mentioned before, we can take people in our car...just let us know.

Hi everyone,I can watch kids on Wednesday evening so parents can go to the meeting. We live a couple miles off the Peak to Peak. It takes about 20 mins from Jamestown to get to our house and about 30 mins to get to Nederland from our house. You will need a 4 wheel drive to get in and out of our road.I can supply macaroni and cheese for dinner, a movie for the kids along with some pop corn. All I ask is not to leave them to late as Ben can get grumpy in the morning if he is up tp late. And it is a school night. Maybe if there are to many kids Gregg will even want to go to the meeting. let me know so I can plan. Thanks for everyone working so hard on keeping the school alive. Heidi

Thanks to David and Emma for organizing the meeting last night and to Jen and Kael, Laura and all the school folks who have to attend the eternal meetings and hear the spin from all sides. I hope you all know how much you are appreciated. Thanks for summarizing the pertinent issues/concerns. It will make individiual/personal letter writing a lot easier. See y'all tonight.Thanks again
Tricia Meyer

Tricia, that is the plan.

Sather


|---------+--------------------------------------->
| | QT - Tricia Meyer |
| | <qtopic+19-uHNSjCkMkVh7@quic|
| | ktopic.com> |
| | |
| | 02/19/2003 10:25 AM |
| | Please respond to QT topic |
|---------+--------------------------------------->
  >---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | | | To: Sather P Flynn/Boulder/IBM@IBMUS | | cc: | | Subject: Jamestown Elementary | >---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|



< replied-to message removed by QT >

My meeting with Dr. Williams this morning felt productive. She did not have a budget that she could give. Which was unfortunate.
However, she believes our school will not be closed because of the busing issue. This she mentioned a couple of times. This felt
positive and relieving. Thank you everyone for your support!
Smiles,
Jen O'Brien

I found that article while looking around on www.rockymountainnews.com Didn't see anything else besides that.

We can take some folks to Ned. in our car Wed., but we may pass on the extracurricular activities if we have Max with us (and we probably will), since it'll be a school night.

Was this really the extent of the article? There's got to be more to it! Do you have a link to it? I'm wondering whether it was just a lead or something for the real thing.

Anyway. Great showing on Thursday, by the way. I think we rocked 'em. Certainly confirmed that well spoken, from the heart comments were the most effective. Seem to have had a good reaction to our work so far.

Going to try and enlist the help or support of some local politicians. We'll certainly need to have all the folks we can at the Ned meeting. How about a carpool plan? Also thinking that maybe a visit to the PI, or NedMex afterward might be in order.

The article written by Bernie Morson from the Rocky Mountain News was in Friday's paper:

Backers plead for schools
Parents, educators, students speak out against closure plan

By Berny Morson, Rocky Mountain News
February 21, 2003

BOULDER - Parents, teachers - even the kids - pleaded with school district officials Thursday not to close their schools.

"I don't know anyone who hates our school or anyone who wants to leave," said Emma Martens, a seventh-grader at Base Line Middle School.

Martens was among several hundred people who packed the gymnasium at Centennial Middle School to speak against proposals to close up to six schools to cut costs.

The closures are included in 10 "scenarios" devised by the district's facilities committee, composed of school administrators and residents. The panel selected small schools that administrators say are not cost-effective.

Included are some of the oldest schools in the state, dating back to the late 19th century.

The residents who spoke Thursday disputed the amount that could be saved through closure, as well as the wisdom of shutting facilities that are mainstays of their neighborhoods.

"Smaller is better," said Gretchen Lang, the parent of two Mapleton Elementary school students. Small schools foster parent participation, she said.

Busing Mapleton's 128 children to other schools won't save much money and will contribute to traffic problems, Lang said.

One scenario calls for closure of Whittier Elementary School, the oldest school in the state operating continuously in the same building. It was built in 1882.

Also on the list are Washington Elementary School, constructed in 1904, and schools in the mountain communities of Gold Hill and Jamestown. The mountain schools also date to the late 19th century.

Burbank Middle School could close under one scenario, or it could get the students who now attend Base Line, which would become an alternative high school.

The most vehement opposition came from the mountain communities. Those children would be bused to Boulder or Nederland on twisting dirt roads.

"It's too dangerous for buses," said Kevin Tone of Gold Hill.

Dedra Buckley of Jamestown said a kindergartner would have to spend more than two hours on the bus to attend a three-hour program.

"How many of you would ever do that to a child?" she asked.

The comments were directed to the facilities committee. But several board of education members - who will make the final decision - listened from the back of the room. They were noncommittal.

"Something will happen," board member Julie Phillips said of the closures. "I'd be very surprised if it all happened."





morsonb@RockymountainNews.com or (303) 892-5072

A number of folks have asked to have this list transmitted. I apologize if it seems too much.

School Closure Points/Issues
Attend the meetings to voice dissatisfaction with scenarios A-E and H and I. These are the scenarios that affect mountain schools the small neighborhood Boulder Schools. To read the scenarios in full, go to www.bvsd.k12.co.us and click on “school consolidation scenarios”. Please go to the meetings in a spirit of negotiation. There are financial challenges in this economy, but we can find creative solutions to them without sacrificing our neighborhood schools.

Many of the following points emphasize the importance of smaller schools vs. larger “mega-shcools” in a general sense. The issues pointed out are significant for Jamestown, our other mountain schools, and the small Boulder Schools that many will eventually attend.

1) Much of what is special about Boulder County is preserved and exemplified by its neighborhoods including its small towns. Neighborhoods cannot exist without neighborhood schools – they are the center of each community.
2) Small schools consistently achieve high academic standards. The students that have moved on from Jamestown to larger Boulder Schools have excelled, demonstrating the value of the personal education they receive. If these small schools had program deficits as claimed, they would not be vigorously patronized and supported by families whose children’s education is their first priority. Parents and teachers should be the primary judges of their school’s program adequacy. The number of hours that an arts or P.E. teacher is at a given facility is less important than the access and time each child has with that teacher. Such one-on-one contact is greater in small schools.
3) Neighborhood schools are safe for our children, and allow them to develop confidence and independence by walking or biking in familiar surroundings. They foster children’s knowledge of and connection to community, producing grounded youth that are more knowledgeable about local issues and more civically active. Jamestown Elementary students regularly participate in Town projects/productions. Alternately, School productions and projects are enthusiastically attended by Jamestown residents.
4) Small neighborhood schools have lower incidences of disruption and violence, higher willingness of students to discuss and report such problems, and lower drop-out rates. If we ignore the harder to quantify, but equally powerful, benefits of small schools, then we are not educating our children as much as we are processing them.
5) Proximity increases children’s time at home and parent and local business volunteerism in school. Jamestown parents meet daily at the school when picking up/dropping off kids. Students and parents universally recognize and know one another by name. The accessibility of the Jamestown school to its parents translates into significant parent participation and volunteer hours when the need arises. It reduces transportation costs to the city, and improves air quality. Studies show that transportation costs per student go up as schools become larger.
6) Small downtown schools contribute to the economic health, safety and attractiveness of our downtown neighborhoods, commerce and city center. Local retail sales in a studied town dropped 8% when only one neighborhood school closed. Additionally, the National Trust for Historic preservation has shown that property values often decline as much as 20% when an historic school closes in a neighborhood. This threat is hard to measure for Jamestown where every community resource is essential. There are historic communities and towns throughout the mountains that have either been abandoned or become strictly “bedroom communities” due to a lack of local resources. Jamestown, Gold Hill and Nederland are the most desirable mountain communities in Boulder County due in large part to its schools. The loss of the mountain schools could devastate the heart of these towns.
7) These schools are part of Boulder County’s living history, and the historic buildings are well-utilized. Altering their use would be both expensive and controversial, in fact, evidence suggests that the BVSD may use or sell the Jamestown building only as a school. The additional expense of maintaining them is part of caring for our state’s heritage, and could be offset by applying for preservation monies for landmarked sites.
8) In the last BVSD closing/consolidation, the district lost 100 students whose parents were dissatisfied with the change. That change affected three schools. In scenarios that potentially affect more than triple that number of families, the district stands to lose hundreds of students at over $5,700/year per student. About half the families at Jamestown have committed themselves to home-schooling their children if the school is closed.
9) In most circumstances, when asked, Boulder County has overwhelming supported its schools. According the BVSD own reports, Boulder County has “generously approved override funding for their district”. We must infer from this support that our citizens support the current system of smaller neighborhood schools.
10) The Facilities Committee and School Board must provide and consider alternative means of reducing expenses. All of the scenarios suggested focus exclusively on the closure of schools, the most disruptive option available. There are other options.

Where to send letters: If you email David Mans: drmans@qwest.net I’ll send you an email with all these addresses and other links for info. Below are the key players.

All Snail Mail may be sent to each individual at:
BVSD Attn: “board member” 6500 Arapahoe, Boulder, CO 80303

District A
Bill De La Cruz
bill.delacruz@bvsd.k12.co.us
voice-mail: 303.245.5815
fax: 303.402.0760

District B
Julie Phillips
julie.phillips@bvsd.k12.co.us
voice-mail: 303.245.5814
fax: 303.449.7783

District C
Angelika Schroeder
angelika.schroeder@bvsd.k12.co.us
voice-mail: 303.245.5817
fax: 303.494.1594

District D
Janusz Okolowicz
No e-mail address
voice-mail: 303.245.5813
fax: 303.449.5239*51

Also Important are any of the Boulder City Council. They have resources and influence. They have even offered to use an “Education Excise Tax” to assist BVSD. So far don't know a lot about this argument but there is something to it.

Mayor: William R. Toor toorw@ci.boulder.co.us
Mark Ruzzin ruzzinm@ci.boulder.co.us
Dan Corson corsond@ci.boulder.co.us
 BVSD Superintendent
Dr. George García
superintendent@bvsd.k12.co.us
phone: 303.447.5114
fax: 303.447.5134

District E
Stan Garnett
sgarnett@BHF-Law.com
voice-mail: 303.499.6864
fax: 303.223.1111

District F
Jean Paxton
jean.paxton@bvsd.k12.co.us
voice-mail: 303.245.5818
fax: 303.438.8572

District G
Teresa Steele
teresa.steele@bvsd.k12.co.us
voice-mail: 303.245.5819
fax: 303.665.2847


(More Boulder City Council)
Spenser Havlick havlicks@ci.boulder.co.us
Don Mock mockd@ci.boulder.co.us
Lisa Morzel morzell@ci.boulder.co.us
Francoise Poinsatte poinsattef@ci.boulder.co.us
Gordon Riggle riggleg@ci.boulder.co.us

Edited by author 02-20-2003 03:13 PM
Post PTO Meeting: thanks to all that came last night, that was great. Hopefully we can use this board as the discussion/organization platform it could be, outside of actually meeting of course.

It felt like we covered a good deal of the issues and sentiments last night. It seemed that there was obvious frustration at the lack of hard numbers to go by. Other then that, good points made and hopefully reasonable arguments to carry to meetings and letters.

I spent about 1/2hr talking to Don Orr the Director of Planning, Construction & Engineering @ BVSD. He's also part of the Facilities Committee and at all of the Community Meetings. It was a good visit. He basically encouraged us to continue doing what we were doing. He felt like the key issues he'd heard from us and that were being understood were (in this order) 1. The Community Impact, 2. The quality of the education/experience our kids were getting, 3. The transportation issue, safety and practical concerns of bussing young kids so far. I thought it very encouraging that our fundamental and heartfelt issues were being appreciated.

As far as the Budget/Money side of the picture, he didn't have answers. When I asked whether there was a source for actual brokendown costs for each school, he said they weren't available! So no lack of effort on our part there. He suggested that we address the financial officer tonight at the meeting to see if we can scare up those numbers. He also said that the BVSD has not set any target figures on the amount meant to be saved with this effort. It sounded like, from where they're coming from, they want to get schools closed that don't make long term sense. It's going to be tough to find any community that feels like the closure of their school will make sense.

Bottom Line: make noise. Come to the Facility Meetings, send emails, send letters. Make your argument based on your issues, you won't be wrong. No need to have every opinion in every message, just so long as each one comes from the heart. I hate to be overly optimistic, but I think they're listening.

Very curious too, how Jen's meeting went this morning.

Thank You Silvia ! Please read todays article on Jamestown School--http://www.dailycamera.com/bdc/features_co...476_1756432,00.html

Question:I have to work on Wed. 2/19 but my husband and son will attend the Jamestown PTO meeting-I am planning to attend the meeting Thursday at Centennial-is that still a good idea? When is the Ned. meeting? Is BVSD serious about busing our kids to Nederland (1Hr) vs. Boulder (30 min). This is really outrageous-I am willing to write letters, emails, phone calls, help draft petitions-tell me what to do and I'll do it. Thanks

Sylvia, My name is David Mans. I live in Jamestown and my boy Hayden is a student at the Elementary. Jen called and said that my family might be a canidate for interviewing with you. I went to J-town Elementary almost 30 years ago and have come full circle with my 1st grader there now. Obviously am interested in whatever publicity we can generate on this issue. Please email me @ drmans@qwest.net or give a call, (303)459-0203.

Thanks for your interest and support. David

I write the weekly column on Boulder history for the Daily Camera. Jennifer, you might remember me from the story I did on Don Ralston a couple of years ago. I now live in Bar-K, and I'm very sympathetic to keeping open both the Jamestown and Gold Hill Schools. When this issue came up a few years ago, I wrote a story on the history of the GH School. So, this time, I'm going to write one on Jamestown.
Keep up your contacts with other Camera (and other newspaper) reporters, as my story won't conflict. You need all the coverage you can get. I will write about the history of Jamestown and the community. About how the school has always been the center of the community, etc. I'll keep you posted on when I'll get it in the paper. Can you tell me if there is a family I could interview (probably just via email) who moved to Jamestown because of the school? Or someone who could have moved elsewhere, but stayed because of the school? Thanks, Silvia Pettem

Edited by author 02-16-2003 01:18 AM
So the Scenarios are out. Has still been a little hard to figure out where they're coming from or how threatened our school is. Obviously have to assume they're serious about all of these. I got a more involved copy of the scenarios but it's about 10 pages. I'm going to put the section concerning the mountain schools here.

From the BVSD web site: <http://www.bvsd.k12.co.us/down_pdf/FacilityPlanning.pdf>;

"Scenario H: Mountain Schools -- Considered for Possible 2003-2004 Implementation

Close Gold Hill School and reassign students to Flatirons Elementary; Close Jamestown School and reassign students to Nederland Elementary

This scenario could include closure of one or both schools. The Gold Hill school currently has 33 students and the Jamestown school has 18 students. These enrollment numbers are not sufficient to generate comprehensive educational programs. Music, art, physical education, resource and media are difficult to staff at these schools without additional resources to maintain these programs. Students in schools as small as these have less opportunity for social and emotional development with age-appropriate peers.

Fiscal Impact

The estimated reduction in general fund expenditures if the Gold Hill building is left vacant is $207,000 per year.

The estimated reduction in general fund expenditures if the Jamestown building is left vacant is $115,000 per year.


Scenario I: Possible Mountain Schools Future Scenario
The following option is not being considered for immediate implementation. It is being presented for discussion of longer-term possibilities.

Nederland Scenario

While both Nederland Middle/Senior High School and Nederland Elementary meet many of the criteria, no viable scenario is presented at this time. The committee discussed at length various potential options to reduce seats and increase efficiency in Nederland. This included bringing high school students to Boulder High and merging middle school and elementary students into a K-8 building.

The situation, however, warrants further study, and community input is desired.
This will include the monitoring of enrollment trends and growth in the Nederland and Boulder areas for future closure/consolidation considerations."



The sign up sheet at the school for the meeting attendance is filling up some. With all of the potential impacts around Boulder it seems that these meetings are going to be "active".

I did a check on the deed from the Town to BVSD. It was transferred for very little (looks like $100) but there were no other limitations or covents that went with the deed. If there were any limitations also transferred they would likely (should be?) recorded to carry any weight. Mary Ellen was having a look in Town records to see if the Town transferred the school with an explicit restriction that it remain an elementary school.

Other topics, issues, arguments to consider? Should we be thinking of cost cutting options? Potential increase in Volunteer efforts? Charter or Private school options? Potential home schooling families and reduced State Funds?

Also, have talked to the reporter covering the school issue for the Denver Post/Rocky News. He's planning on coming up next week to take some pics and write a story. Seems sympathetic to the cause. His first ever story as a professional was on Gold Hill Elementary in 1981. I'll give you a call about the visit Jen. Does anyone know the contact for the Camera? Probably the person that wrote the article yesterday.

Sorry for the long message. We haven't got long now. Time to ramp this up. We need participation at the PTO meeting and then the others. Seems that Ned will also be key, maybe the best chance to be heard? I think we should get letters and or emails going directly to Board Members, they're the ones that will be making the call.

David

Hi Folks,

I wanted to weigh in on the upcoming BVSD Meetings. As I understand it, the meetings will include a presentation( including the potential 'scenarios' - I sent them to David Manns they are also on the web) followed by a large group Q&A that will be facilitated and recorded.

I think it is important that Jamestown have a strong/unified voice at meetings. This could be accomplished by having a spokesperson(s) who outline how important the school is to our community, and the paltry resources that would be generated by closing the Jamestown school (including the potential of homeschooling, cost of busing etc...). Not to say that we should not have a presence at the Boulder meetings but I think our voice may be drowned out by the concerns in Boulder. The meetings in Broomfield, Ned, and at Monarch might provide more of a potential for getting our views heard.

These meetings are only the beginning and we need to make sure that the Board hears our views in other ways as well (letter writing, phone calls etc...) following these meetings.

Sorry we won't be able to attend as we will be in Mexico.

Jonathan Bartsch

This is what I know at this point. Marlene did attend a meeting on Monday for principals affected by scenarios. Both of her schools are in a scenario. (Jamestown and Community Montessori). She was given strict directions to not discuss the outcome of the meeting until Thursday morning with her staff. There is a press meeting Thursday afternoon and the Daily Camera will have an article printed on the possible scenarios on Friday. We know nothing more than we did at our last PTO meeting. AS SOON AS MARLENE GIVES ME MORE INFORMATION I WILL POST IT ON THIS BULLETIN BOARD. Yes, I feel a petition would be a great thing to start. We may not have a lot of time next week. It would be good to have that in place and in our hands. Please let me know which meeting you all plan on attending. I want to be sure we have a Jamestown representative at each meeting. There is also a sign up on my classroom door. I will place one in the Post Office too. I wish I had more information.
More later, Jen

So a week away from the first Community Meeting. Had hoped that this board might be a good forum for discussing the game plan but I guess there isn't all that much to discuss. We all know how important the school is to us and the 1/2 dozen or so reasons it can't be closed down.

My uncle made a couple of posters that I'm putting up, at the Merc and at the PO. It's a start. Have had a lot of folks asking what they can do, seems that attending meetings will matter the most. Still planning to make the issue the main topic next Wednesday the 19th after we have some idea of the structure of the meeting on the 18th. Hopefully we can get a good turnout and coordinate efforts there.

I'm wondering too whether we should get a petition circulated? Would having folks signing on to show their support be a useful thing to present? Hmmm? It's hard to have this kind of threat out there with so many emotional consequences and not really be rallying. Understood, however, that it's tough to know exactly how to proceed.

What about carpooling to the Sessions? Still seems we should try and have a car-full at least at each meeting.

David

Tomorrow is our 100th day of school!! Be sure your child has 100 of something to share for show and tell. We will also weigh these collections and put them in order from lightest to heaviest.

We are going Cheers for an oriental lunch. So you only need to pack a snack tomorrow.

Smiles, Jen

Great Heidi! Thanks -Jen

Thanks Karen!! Yes, that would be helpful for you to drive on Friday. Sal mentioned he would too. I could use him as well. Have a great day! -Jen

Hi Jen,
I made a mistake I can only drive 3 kids or 2 kids 1 adult. It would be real cramped with 4. I look forward to it .Heidi
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Jen, Did you get my message about driving Friday? I can drive three kids and one adult one way. I'm going to stay down there with Max after lunch, though, so I won't be able to drive back up. (I don't know if this is helpful or not.)

Hi Heidi,
Great!! I could really use you!! Thank you! Jen

I can drive 3 kids and 1 adult on Friday if needed.

I can take 6 kids in the back and Max or an adult in the remaining front seat -Egg Foo Yung for everybody !

Good article. It sounds like closing mountain schools will be of no benefit to anyone.

Yes! We need a couple more drivers for lunch to Cheers-
Chinese-Vietnamese Restaurant. (Diagonal Plaza) We will leave
school at 10:30 and return 12:30. Lunch will be paid for from our 100.00 winnings from the coat drive. I just can't ask parents to drive to Denver for the Colorado Symphony with skiing coming up. So...we will be taking a big yellow bus on the 19th to Denver.

Is there any need for drivers to the outing(s?) this week? How about parent participation otherwise?

There's an interesting article in this weeks issue of the Ned paper The Mountain Ear. Here's the link to the article: http://www.themountainear.com/story1.shtml

There is actually the name of the "mountain representative for the Facilities Committee, Susan Femmer". They give a contact number for her and say she welcomes calls to answer questions.

The article is a bit scathing of the process but also seems to have some pretty good facts and figures. It mentions Jamestown and Gold Hill's situations extensively. It seems that the points most often cited here and otherwise are added cost of busing, lack of possible funds from selling the buildings, loss of State Funds for each kid that might be homeschooled.

Have a look.

Thanks Jen, sounds like a great idea to have someone or a few someones at each meeting if we can. We should also have a few principle points in mind in case the "fly on the wall" approach calls for a little more input.

I'll list the dates below, maybe we can get at least one carload of folks going down for each one.

Feb 18, Tue, Monarch Cafeteria, 6:30 to 8:30
Feb 19, Wed, Centaurus Student Center, 6:00 to 8:00
Feb 20, Thu, Centennial Cafeteria, 6:00 to 8:00
Feb 24, Mon, Broomfield Heights Cafetorium 6:00 to 8:00
Feb 26, Wed, Nederland High Library, 6:00 to 8:00
Feb 27, Thu, Burbank Auditorium, 6:00 to 8:00
Mar 3, Fri, Columbine Cafeteria (In Spanish)6:00-8:00

I'm also wondering if we should check in with families of recent students and mountain families with kids at other elementaries in town, there are obviously plenty. They'll certainly have a stake in this also. There has also been a lot of interest in this subject by the community at large, let's be sure to talk it up with them too.

Jen, do you think it's a bit premature for trying to get a letter campaign going? Without hard numbers or facts the primary sentiment that could be voiced at this point would be emotional, but might still be helpful.

Jen,

If Jamestown is closed next year we will be home schooling Shoshanna. Check with Karen too, it is possible she would home school Max.



< replied-to message removed by QT >

This is great information, Jen! It also looks like an excellent strategy by Gold Hill, one I suggest we use as well. Do we have any idea of a what similar numbers would be for Jamestown? Sather

I had a long discussion with Steven Vanek, the k-2 teacher at Gold Hill School this past weekend. They are planning on sending a parent to every Facilities Meeting. They want to be able to listen to each conversation to see if Mountain Schools are brought up. If they are, then they will present a case. If they are not discussed, then they decided to just be quiet. Gold Hill has read through their budget and figured how much the district will actually save if they were to close their school. Steven thought it was in the 20,000 ball park. He also mentioned that if the district was to close their school at least 4 families would home school their children. If that were to happen the district would lose $5,000 per child from the state. Therefore, they are not saving enough to make it worthwhile. I will have a sign up sheet on my classroom door of the dates for the Facilities Meetings. I think we should also have someone from Jamestown at each meeting. I am out of time now to post the dates on here. I will try to get back to this later. Then you can sign up here. bye for now, Jen

So the first topic of concern, which all those at the PTO meeting last night (wednesday) are aware, is that the School Board has put all the Elementary schools on the potential chopping block. We're trying to figure out the best ways to address the threat. First and foremost is to attend the scheduled meetings at the various schools around the district in February.

Once again, time to campaign for what matters to us.

Edited by author 01-29-2003 10:33 AM
Hello All! So this Bulletin Board has been set up so that we might have whatever discussions bounce around concerning the School, kids, rides, etc. Pass it around and let's get all the parents, teachers and potential families involved.

David Mans