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Hot temperatures and hot topics |
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by Jim Hansen on
8/14/2006
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In Rexburg and many other towns, the topic of global warming comes up, even though Congress ignores the topic as too complicated to put into a 30-second attack ad. They also have to raise money from big interest groups that would prefer Congress talk about other things. Of course, with the hot temperatures and the increase in mosquito-born diseases, people still talk about it and expect some leadership.
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Jerome deals with growth |
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by Jim Hansen on
8/14/2006
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People in Jerome come from diverse perspectives but have a lot in common with each other as they deal with the immediate effects of growth. They were glad I showed up again to meet more people face to face. Even though big interest groups in Washington, D.C., heavily influence national and international policies, the people in Jerome pay the price.
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Preston people who make a difference |
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by Jim Hansen on
8/8/2006
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The people of Preston often feel left out of Idaho, but they have built a strong community and don't like to be told what to do by the powers that be. They appreciate people who make the effort to meet them in person and who stand up for what they believe in.
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Preserving the arts in Idaho communities |
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by Jim Hansen on
8/7/2006
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The arts are an indispensable part of the life of every Idaho community. In virtually every town I have visited, the topic comes up. I also have been blessed with meeting many amazing artists, arts volunteers and supporters, and art educators. The impact that the arts have on a community cannot be fully appreciated without spending time experiencing what local people have created.
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Families helping each other in Shelley |
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by Jim Hansen on
8/1/2006
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Ten miles south of Idaho Falls is the small but growing community of Shelley. Here is where my great-grandparents came in 1896 with four small children. Here is where my grandfather was born. Here is where strong families helped each other build a community. Here is where families and city leaders continue to help each other grapple with modern challenges.
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Changes and challenges in Shoshone |
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by Jim Hansen on
7/28/2006
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In the rural community of Shoshone, I spoke with many people about what it is like to become a commuter community 75 miles from Sun Valley, the challenges of getting health care, and the necessity of being dependent on driving and the cost of fuel. Shoshone has a strong community of seniors who shared their concerns and their humor.
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American Falls and Aberdeen, sister cities |
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by Jim Hansen on
7/27/2006
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American Falls and Aberdeen became strong farming communities in an era when our government invested in communities. That investment helped level the playing field for everyone to participate, particularly family farmers and small businesses. Congress has retreated from investing in communities, preferring to subsidize big private interests instead.
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Pioneer Day in St. Anthony, Lava |
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by Jim Hansen on
7/25/2006
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Pioneer Day is an integral part of many communities in Southern Idaho and I had fun walking in two parades last Saturday. St. Anthony and Lava Hot Springs put on two very different types of parades but they showcase some great talent in their communities. I had the honor or walking next to Jana Jones in both parades.
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Never too old to dance with Mom |
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by Jim Hansen on
7/22/2006
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After visiting with seniors at Pocatello's Gate City Senior Center on Thursday, we were treated to some music and dancing. Since I was fortunate to be there with two very special seniors -- my parents, Orval and June Hansen -- I did not pass up the opportunity to ask Mom to dance.
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Barbecue in my old neighborhood |
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by Jim Hansen on
7/22/2006
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Residents of a wonderful old Idaho Falls neighborhood are working to connect with each other, to share the history of the neighborhood and to fight to protect it. This is where I spent my childhood and last week got a chance to meet folks at a backyard barbecue. Neighbors working together to improve their community reflect the best examples of grassroots democracy.
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