Teacher Helps Students Find Happy Trails
JoAnn Harvey tried to explain to the eager children pleading with her that winter is not running season.
The fall cross-country season had just ended. Bloomsday training was three months away. The kids didn’t want a break.
To discourage athletic activity, especially after she’d worked so hard to interest the Hayden Lake Elementary students in exercise, contradicted JoAnn’s personal commitment to fitness.
So, she suggested a cross-country ski club, a rarity in any public school. The kids nodded, wide-eyed. Most had no idea what she was talking about, but it didn’t matter as long as they could continue their club.
“They were adamant,” JoAnn says.
She volunteered to develop and coach the after-school cross-country running program five years ago. JoAnn teaches physical education for the district, but this program was all-volunteer and self-supporting.
She emphasized fun and fitness. About two dozen kids had the necessary rides home to try it.
Three years into the program, JoAnn was so happy with her small team’s dedication that she rewarded the kids with a sleepover and pizza party in the gym.
Enrollment rocketed the next fall to 90, then 160 this year. Apparently, no one wanted to pass up sleeping bags, pizza and T-shirts.
“At the overnight, we get to stay up as long as we can,” says Nick Blank, a third-grade devotee.
JoAnn’s program appealed to parents as well.
“The way it’s set up, it makes the least amount of pressure and gives kids lots of bennies,” says Katie Blank, Nick’s mother. “She inspired Nick.”
And enough others to keep the club going through winter despite a lack of snow and skis. The 18 kids who want to ski have lunch with JoAnn every other week and brainstorm on finding skis or raising money.
They’ve already raised $120 from bake sales and donations. They’re asking people to search their basements for old, child-sized equipment they no longer need. Gear would go to the club to lend out.
“They’re just so energetic and so needy for activities,” JoAnn says. “How could I say no?”
Drop equipment donations at Hayden Lake Elementary or call 772-3851. Make cash donations to the Hayden Lake Cross Country Club account at the Hayden branch of Idaho Independent Bank.
Fascinating rhythm
If you’re aching for a different sound, head to Sandpoint’s Panida Theater on Feb. 20 for the Sibikwa Players.
The South African troupe performs a musical revue that reflects a South Africa view of African-Americans and the American dream. Interesting.
Music and dances are from the 1950s and 1960s with some traditional tribal music, some township street beat and a lot of American pop. Thank the Pend Oreille Arts Council for brightening up winter with this group.
For tickets and reservations, call 263-6139.
Touch of poison
What’s funnier than little old ladies with dead bodies? In reality, just about anything. But on stage, “Arsenic and Old Lace” is good for laugh after laugh.
The play opens at 8 tonight at Coeur d’Alene’s Lake City Playhouse and will run weekends through Feb. 21. This is a chance for double culture. The Playhouse also plans to exhibit local artwork. For details and reservations, call 667-1323.
Valentine tales
What’s the most creative Valentine you’ve ever given or received. Hurry with your answers. Valentine’s Day is next week and I need time to prepare… Deliver your bright ideas to Cynthia Taggart, “Close to Home,” 608 Northwest Blvd., Suite 200, Coeur d’Alene 83814; FAX to 765-7149; call 765-7128; or e-mail to cynthiat@spokesman.com.
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