AIR COMMITTEE

        The Committee will continue a Christmastime tradition started several years ago.  The Albion Centennial Tree at the northwest corner of the library becomes a Memorial Tree during December.  For a donation in memory of a loved one, a tole-painted wooden angel ornament has been inscribed with the name of the loved one to be hung on the tree which will be lit with only white lights.  Those who have purchased angels this year are asked to come the library about fifteen minutes early Saturday night to pickup their angels to hang on the tree.  The angels purchased last year have already been hung on the tree. The angels will be placed on the tree every year. The angels were painted by AIR Committee members.

        Santa will visit with the children in the library and hand out treats before moving on to visit shut-ins in the community.  During and following the activities at the library, weather permitting anyone who wants to join in old-fashioned Christmas caroling around town can hop aboard the hay wagon provided by Harry Fitzgerald.  Participants need to bring a blanket and a flashlight.

        Please join the fun!!!

        Once again, the Committee is sponsoring a Christmas Decorating Contest in the valley.  Every homeplace in the valley will automatically be judged.  Judging will be done December 20 and 21. Please be sure your lights are on those two days.  The top three winners will each receive a $50 cash award, and be announced in the newspapers and the January issue of the Albion Valley News.

        The Christmas banners purchased three years ago will be put up by Darren Smyer.

        A new member, Kerma Olson, is a welcome addition to the committee.  The next meeting of the Committee will be Tuesday, March 23 at 7 p.m. at Marcella Mahoney’s.  Anyone interested in helping is welcome to attend.

FOUR LEAF CLOVER CLUB

        The program for the November meeting of the Club was under the direction of the Conservation Committee.  Lorna Caliouette, chairman, listed several conservation tips and handed out papers with more information.  She introduced Carey Leach who told about the reclamation of soil done by the company for which she works, PHC Reclamation, Inc. in Albion.  

        President Mary Amende presided over the meeting.  The Club Collect was led by Helen Sorensen and the Pledge of Allegiance by Pat Butz.  The minutes of the October meeting were read by Edie Fitzgerald, secretary.  Linda Leach gave the treasurer’s report including the amount raised from sponsoring the Hometown OctoberFest.  Members were reminded that dues are due. 

        A thank you note from GFWC-Idaho President Judy Squire for the invitation to the October meeting was read.  An invitation from the Nampa Women’s Civic Club to its out of town guest luncheon was also read.  It was announced that the 2004 state convention will be in Garden Valley and that a list of possible accommodations had been sent.

those who want to work in the library on Saturdays.  She stated that she would mail the new schedule to members who participate.  She further reported that several new books had been purchased and some new shelves had been built.  It was noted that Albion Elementary students are coming to the library on Thursday mornings.

                It was reported that Mary, Linda, Lorna Caliouette, and (cont. on pg. 3)

THANK YOU NOTES

        Thank you dear friends of our great valley for the calls, cards, and donations received at the passing of my sister, Patty Hayden.  Your love and concern are greatly appreciated.

            Loleta Merrill

     I would like to thank the Albion Fire Department for their quick response to my fire Iset and it got away from me.  I had all the Albion dignitaries working for me, the Fire Chief, the Mayor, the Bishop, Earl Warthen, and me.

     Thanks very much.

             Helen Anderson

     I want to thank all those who voted for me in the recent city election.  I appreciate your confidence and will serve to the best of my ability.

            Rick Mahoney

BITS AND PIECES

        Ruth Kempton, and her daughter and son-in-law, Judy and Mike Felton, have returned from a ten day cruise in the Caribbean.  They visited the Mayan ruins in Cozumel, Mexico; the Grand Cayman Islands; Limon, Costa Rica; Jamica; through the Panama Canal; and Panama City.

ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL

        The annual Fall Festival went very well.  The Seniors’  breakfast and baked food sale was well attended.  The Seniors cleared over $300.

        The Grange greatly appreciates the many who participated in Bingo and also those who donated prizes including food.  It was a lot of fun and there were many nice prizes.  Almost $200 was raised to help the Grange with its programs.

        The Turkey Shoot sponsored by the American Legion was well attended this year.  The Legion appreciates the faithful ones and all the new contestants who participated.  The match between the cops and civilians was won by the civilians.  Shooters winning turkeys this year were Niles Tilley (3), Jody Osterhout (2), Stewart Waldemar, Ron Ward, Jason Gutierrez, Lamont Young, Tony Bernad (2), Rhett Ward (2), Rich Neu, and Jamie Osterhout.  Gloria West won the drawing for a turkey.

SCHOOLS

        A Teacher Inservice will be held Wednesday, December 10.  School will be dismissed 3½ hours early.

        School will be dismissed one and a half hours early on Friday, December 19 to begin Christmas Vacation.  School will resume Monday, January 5.

CONGRATULATIONS TO:

        all the students who received Renaissance academic awards.

GRANGE

        Award certificates from the State Grange were presented to Mary Amende, secretary, and Kris Wenslawski, Deaf Activites Chairman.  Lou Wenslawski was reelected to the executive committee

        The Grange Family Christmas Dinner and Program will again be held between Christmas and New Years.  It has been scheduled for Tuesday, December 30 at 6:30 p.m. in the Grange Hall.  The program will be presented by members and their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who volunteer to perform.

        No card party will be held during December.

SENIOR NOTES

        The breakfast served by the Seniors during the Fall Festival and the baked food sale was quite well attended.  Over $300 was cleared.  Thanks to all who helped support these activities.

        The Seniors have been awarded a $530 grant from Albertsons.

        During the dinner meeting on November 25, Helen Anderson was presented a gift honoring 20 years of being a cook for the Seniors.

        Come join us for meals during December!  The weekly menus are:

        December 3-lasagne, tossed salad, stewed tomatoes, garlic bread, dessert, and beverages;

        December 10-tuna casserole, baked squash, apple salad, rolls and butter, cake and fruit, and beverages;

        December 17-Christmas Dinner: roast beef, potatoes and gravy, cranberry relish, cole slaw, corn, rolls and butter, ice cream sundaes, and beverages;

        December 24-no dinner; and

        December 31-New Year’s Eve Celebration Picnic: submarine sandwiches, salads, chips, relish tray, fantastic dessert, and beverages.

(cont. from pg. 1)

Mary Lynne Bristol attended the Fall State Board Meeting in Boise.  In a report by those attending, it was noted that the Boise Public Library will take any used books.  An idea presented during the board meeting of raising funds by having members bring used magazines and books to club meetings for resale to other members was discussed.  The president reported that the club was given a CD of PSAs which she is checking out and will see about getting to local radio stations.

        Arts Committee Chairman Carol Amende reminded members of the adult arts contests, and their state and national deadlines.  Contests are photography, garden flags, short story, drama, poetry, and essay.

        Plans for the Christmas dinner and program were discussed.  It was agreed to hold the dinner on Monday, December 8 at 7 p.m. in the Grange Hall.  The meal will be catered by the Sage Mountain Grill.

        It was announced that “55 Alive” classes for senior drivers are to be conducted soon in Burley.  It was noted that those taking the training get a reduction in auto insurance.  It was also announced that Robert Moore has given permission for the marquee in front of his art school to be used for public announcements. 

        Refreshments were served by Mary, Carol, Gloria West, and Mary Lynne.

AMERICAN LEGION

        The month of November proved very worthwhile.  Albion Post 124 accomplished everything that faced the membership, and we held a special business meeting, to follow up on pressing business, since there will be no meeting in December.

        November 11th, Veterans Day, we had a Memorial Ceremony in the Albion City Park.  It was a very cold morning.  Our faithful students from the Albion Elementary School and a few community members were in attendance to hear remarks from the Post Commander and Unit President.  Then each Veteran gave his/her name, branch of service, and era when served.

        At our regular meeting the membership made their last minute preparations for the Annual Turkey Shoot and Food Convoy.  They were both very successful.  All of the big birds ended up being the main dish for Thanksgiving - I hope!

        The Auxiliary members who helped with the Turkey Shoot are commended for their donations of time and/or food, such as the Mahoney Chili, President Cole’s Cup Cakes, and Batterton "Sam" Cinnamon Rolls.

        We would like to thank our Second Vice-Commander, Keith Rogers, for donating a Black Powder 50 Cal. Rifle with scope to the Post as a fund raiser for our American Legion programs.  A raffle for the rifle will kick off on December 11th at our annual Post Christmas Program (see Auxiliary write-up) and conclude with the drawing to be held during the Hometown Albion 4th of July Celebration.  Tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5.  We are asking the Community and Legion family members to support this raffle.

         Membership has been the mainstay in keeping our programs alive and healthy.  We currently stand at 44 paid up members for 2004 and have sent letters out to those that have yet to renew.  The Post is hoping to have a 100% for Commander Pace by December 31, 2003.  So please get your dues in.  They are still $20 a year.

        The Fifth District delegation that met in Twin Falls November 8^th  passed a resolution that was an incentive on membership with a total of $175 that may be awarded.  First place is $100, second place $50, and third place $25.  In order to qualify for this program, a member has to have recruited at least five (5) new members, and the one with the most over that within the 5th District will reap the winnings as stated above.  Participants need to turn in their numbers to Commander Barth by June 15, 2004 through Post Adjutant Don Gunderson who will verify the new members.  Confusing!?   Not really.  Commander Pace is currently looking for a Post incentive.

        See you all at the Christmas Program, Thursday, December 11 at 1800 hours.  Bring a dish of something (potluck), a wrapped  gift (no more than $5 value), and a new stuffed animal or toy for the Mountain States Tumor Institute (MSTI) at St. Luke’s Hospital in Boise with a tag attached listing its value.  The toys will  be taken to the  Department Mid-Winter Conference being held January 16-17, 2004 in Boise.

        Hope you all had a Great Turkey Day on November 27^th.

             Still serving our Youth and Veterans,

                 Don G. Gunderson, Adjutant

LEGION AUXILIARY

        The Memorial ceremony on November 11th was a very moving experience for all the attendees.  It was a joy to have all the young folks from Albion Elementary School join with us in honoring our veterans.  We appreciate the effort made by the teachers and students to be there.

        On November 15th, the Auxiliary helped with the Chuck Wagon at the Legion’s annual Turkey Shoot.  The participants were very glad to have the hot chili, cocoa, coffee, and hamburgers.  It was cold and drizzly for a good part of the afternoon and the hot grub helped!  A big thank you to Marcella Mahoney for the donation of two big pots of homemade chili and to Shanna Batterton for her special cinnamon rolls.  The Auxiliary sure is blessed with some good cooks!  It was also fun to watch the many children that were there playing in the "sand dunes." They probably earned their bath that day!

        Pat Gunderson took the Auxiliary $50 donation for the Boise Food Convoy and delivered it to Boise.  We also sent the donation for the Pocatello Veterans Home Christmas Gift Table - 5 brightly colored sweatshirts, 6 pair of slipper socks, 5 wristwatches, and 5 aluminum insulated mugs.  This allows the veterans to do some "shopping" of their own.

        December is our month to celebrate.  Our annual Christmas party/dinner will be at 6 p.m. on THURSDAY, December 11th.  The Auxiliary will be providing the ham, rolls, and punch this year.  All legion members and their wives are cordially invited!  We ask all attendees to bring a salad, vegetable or dessert to share.  Each person should bring a gift ($5.00 limit) to participate in our fun-filled gift exchange/raffle/swap/game!!!  We always have a lot of fun with that!  And, if you can, please remember to bring a NEW toy for the Mountain States Tumor Institute toy barn.  These toys are for the children to choose from when they complete potentially painful treatments.  Please attach a tag to the new toy with the price as we are required to state the value of the donations that are taken to Mid-Winter Conference and given to the MSTI representative there.

        See you all at the Christmas Party 6 pm Thursday December 11th!!!!!

                                   Harriet Cole, President

                                    Auxiliary Unit 124

ALBION MOUNTAIN STONE INSTITUTE NEWS

        This is the first in a series of articles about the Albion Mountain Range, other nearby mountains, the stones that make them, the towns in them, the routes through them, and other interesting things about them.

        The Albion Mountain Stone Institute is a new organization with some basic objectives: to establish Albion as a center of learning about geologic and geographic features, mountains, and stones—igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic, and related factors; to provide opportunities for coordination of educational, cultural, historical, and natural resources and values in the Albion, Elba, Almo, and Oakley areas; to enhance our appreciation of these values; and to encourage other people to come to enjoy, to learn, to appreciate these resources.

        The Albion Mountain Stone Institute is just getting organized.  If you want to participate, make this connection: J. Keith Rogers, Box 127, Albion, ID 83311, phone-208-673-5588, email-jkrogers@atcnet.net.

(cont. on pg. 5)

COTTRELL MOUNTAIN

        Keith and Lorna Rogers have a stone quarry on Cottrell Mountain!  It’s a little cold there now, but in the spring they will be harvesting play rhylolite and several other beautiful stones to put in the new Albion Stone yard south of Albion.

 discussed in open public meetings for several months and explained during a Gem Community Action Team meeting held in September; attendees were also told that the agenda for meetings is posted and that write-ups of the meeting are in the local papers; it was questioned whether it was legal for the City to hire a law enforcement officer without citizen input; the answer was “yes” and that citizen input is welcome during the public monthly city council meetings;

-the other main concerns of attendees were whether the city could afford to hire its own law officer and if the position was really needed; it was explained that Bruce will be paid only $600 per month with no benefits because it is a part-time position and he can work no more than nineteen hours per week because of his retirement; the $10,000 budget line item was itemized and it was noted that all of the $10,000 might not be used if startup costs are less than anticipated; it was further explained that the city will have a Memorandum of Understanding with the sheriff’s office in regards to using the central dispatch and the NCIC; it was also explained that the city insurance provides liability coverage;

-reasons given for needing the additional law enforcement were that the $2,500 annual fee paid to the CCSO entitles the City to only 11 hours of extra coverage, the new resident deputy lives in Heyburn thus increasing his response time to a call, an increase in misdemeanor crimes within the city in the past few years, and to maintain and even increase the level of law enforcement coverage for better public safety;

-another question was whether the City had the legal right to hire a police officer without public notice and/or the competitive process; the answer, from Idaho Code Section 50-204, is that that the Mayor is authorized “to appoint a city clerk, a city treasurer, a city attorney and such other officers as may be deemed necessary for the efficient operation of the city” with approval of the Council members; the Mayor will also be Bruce’s supervisor and, along with the council, will handle grievances from the citizens; 

-Mayor Danner concluded by stating, “The budget requirement for this service is a sound investment for the community.  The plan has city and county support.  The appointee is an individual who has the experience and credentials required for the position.  Further, he lives here, knows our people, and has been a respected participant in community affairs for years.  Unless there is some unknown legal issue to overcome, Bruce Bristol will be appointed by the Mayor to serve in the capacity of Albion Law Enforcement Officer.  If the City Council supports that appointment, he will start to work at the first of the year.”

-Jennifer Etter from Region IV Development in Twin Falls, who is the Project Administrator for the Block Grant helping to fund a new fire station for the Albion Fire Protection District, was present to get council approval for the first request of funds, $43,203, for the project which will cover the cost of the site work and the steel building being delivered soon; she reported  that the project should be done by the end of February; also, she noted that the matching funds will be used last;

-Spencer Mendenhall, a local scout, asked the Council for permission to redo the horseshoe pits on the city park as his Eagle Scout project; he presented them with a plan that would not require any more space than currently allotted, but would create six pits instead of four and have them running east/west instead of north/south; the pits will be placed closer together and improved; he hopes to begin work this fall, but may have to wait until spring; permission was given;

-Heather Whitehead, election judge, reported that in the city election 107 regular ballots and 8 absentee ballots were cast for a total of  115; she noted that 225 ballots were printed so that, with no spoiled ballots, 118 were unused; the tally of votes cast was recorded as 71 for Don Bowden, 59 for Brent Stauffer, 79 for Jacque Whiting, 32 for Jim MacKenzie, and 77 for Rick Mahoney; Heather reported that, with a 152 registered voters, the city had a 76 percent voter turnout; the council members canvassed the ballots and accepted the results;

-the council approved hiring JUB Engineering for $22,000 to prepare a transportation needs study in order to apply for a transportation grant that would be used to pave gravel streets in the city;

-Marcella Mahoney reported to the Council that the turning on of the Christmas tree lights by Santa in front of the library and city office will be Saturday, December 6;

-approval was given to pay the registration fee for council members who attend a City Officials Academy sponsored by the Association of Idaho Cities being held in Twin Falls on November 14;

-David Cole, a cross country coach at Declo High School, thanked the council for the use of the campus for cross country meets; and

-the mayor was authorized to sign an amendment to the city’s contract with BPA regarding environmentally preferred power

Due to the length of the meeting, the remaining agenda items were moved to the December calendar.