Philip, SD

The dictionary defines poverty as “the state of having little or no money and few or no material possessions”.

After attending the Study Circles and the LeadershipPlenty training sessions,  members of Philip’s Horizons group see poverty in a different way:  lack of sufficient day care (the four in our community all have waiting lists),  absence of nice affordable housing in the community (there is little or none),  a crowded, inadequate library (it’s been that way since 1964),  a better way to communicate community events (a strong gust of wind will blow the sign over that is placed at the intersection of Center & Pine),  a sports complex that needs to be improved and enlarged (Philip would no longer have to travel to Kadoka to hold their own track meet),  and a lack of marketing of Philip as a great place to live & raise a family.

Philip is fortunate in many ways:  we have a main street that is flourishing, a great school system, a medical complex (new up-to-date hospital, dentist, chiropractor, eye care center, physical therapy center, nursing home, assisted-living center and ambulance service) that services many area communities,  five major ag-related businesses that also serve a wide area and a manufacturing concern that is a world leader in its field.   Philip is wealthy in that it is a community that cares about its members and its future.

With determination and hard work, we hope to change some of what we see as poverty.

Give us time, kids. Give us time.   Earlier,  second graders gave us some ideas of what they thought Philip needed:  a dirt track,  a NASCAR track and a castle.   Who knows?   Anything is possible if we work hard at it.

The following is posted on behalf of Tanya McIlravy. Anyone got ideas or suggestions?

The conservation district board recently voted to remove any further development of the outdoor classroom area at the school from their plan of work, including commissioning a new design plan for the area. They had been setting aside money each year in an account to fund the design plan, but are now unwilling to head up or maintain anything else concerning the project site.

Is there a committee that is part of the Horizons program that may be willing to take on this project? The board stated they would consider funding the planning if an outside group emerged to take on the project itself, especially maintenance. The project proposal included replacing the steps and adding other trails (a part of the larger trails project I proposed several years ago to the various groups in the area that Shirley had been working on, including the city’s efforts to put in sidewalk along 73). However, other parts of the master plan include interpretive exhibits and educational/hands-on exhibits that were selected by the teachers and students during brainstorming sessions, as well as seeking out funds and personnel to create a site-specific, grade-specific curriculum for the site. Additional brainstorming with the higher grades, as well as follow ups with the elementary teachers will be necessary before planning, to be sure our ideas correspond to current classroom needs.

The board’s biggest concern seemed to be maintenance, and they also did not believe that the community supports this project, that only a few teachers use what is already offered and that is sufficient. I know that is not the case, both from my previous work with various groups in effort to establish a support base for the project in the beginning, as well as contacts with various people around the community and information on who has been using the site, etc. As far as maintenance, the two items in place, the living classroom and the butterfly garden, are by far the most maintenance intensive items planned for the site. The board is going to continue maintaining them, so the only maintenance needed by others would be based on what is added to the site.

I have done lots of research into how to design the site so that maintenance is minimal. I also know that design is crucial to controlling amount of maintenance. And, there will be no maintenance involved if nothing is installed, which translates to not making changes until a plan is in place for either a particular section/exhibit, or for the whole area.

Basically, what is needed now is a group to accept this project as its own, and move forward with brainstorming and design. I had asked the school board if they could form an ad hoc committee for this and they declined. The horizons group was my next choice, as there are already groups formed, and many of the organizations and people that supported this project are involved in horizons. I don’t believe any of the current groups that support this project would be able to take this on, and I am not sure if they would want to create an ad hoc committee that included non-members.

I hope you and the other members of the Horizons project are supportive of the outdoor classroom project. Please let me know if you have any interest in taking on this project, and if you have any questions. I am willing to be a part of making this project a success.

Tuesday night, December 11th, the Haakon County Public Library entertained 19 youngsters and 12 adults. The evening started off with Alison K., our librarian, reading THE POLAR EXPRESS (Chris Van Allsburg) to a very attentive audience.

Then Marianne F. entertained the group with music and story books. The children danced with sticks to WE GOT THE BEAT and even some of the adults kicked up their heels to JUMP JIM JOE.

The children learned about typewriters from CLICK, CLACK, MOO: COWS THAT TYPE (Doreen Cronin & Betsy Lewin). They also learned what SNOWMEN AT NIGHT (Caralyn & Mark Buehner) do.

Hot chocolate and muffins were served as refreshments. Thank you to all the women who helped to entertain that night.

As most of you know, Cub Scout Pack 37 is alive and going strong in Philip, South Dakota. We are always looking for new boys to join. Boys must be 5 years old and/or in kindergarten and are able to transfer to a Boy Scout unit after the 5th grade.
At the conclusion of this school year, we will be losing several boys do to their ages….so we need some new guys to keep the program going strong.

Cub Scouts is very family oriented and much of the work is done on your own at home with parental involvement.  If you would like to know more or are interested in joining, please contact David Butler at 859-2172.

Sierra says…

BENEFITS

The SilverLeaf (Assisted Living Center)

Physical Therapy

Hospital

Chiropractor

THINGS THAT NEED TO CHANGE

“Build a sports complex on the empty lot by the baseball fields.”

“Plant grass or build a rec center on the ‘dust bowl’”.

Thank you Sierra!

Once again, the Philip FCCLA Chapter is sponsoring the community “Maggie Grace” Angel Tree located at the Haakon County Courthouse.

Maggie Grace was born an angel on February 20, 2002, to loving parents Doug & Karen of Rapid City. They devoted their lives to Maggie and her brother Isaac by showering them with love and happiness.

On December 10, 2002, Maggie died suddenly from complications of a very rare respiratory bacteria. She touched the hearts of so many people in her short nine months of life.

The Angel Tree is dedicated in Maggie’s memory in the hope that needy children in the area will be shown the spirit and love of Christmas. The Philip FCCLA Chapter in conjunction with the local churches and the Haakon Community Health Office will distribute the donations to children in need in the Philip area.

Gifts beyond our community need will be distributed by the Jackson Community Health Office and the Bennett County foster child program. There are already 70 children identified in these counties.

“Last year the response was tremendous with over 200 items collected under the tree,” according to Brigitte Brucklacher, Philip FCCLA adviser. She added, “We hope this year’s giving equals or surpasses that amount.”

To donate to the project, leave an unwrapped toy, book or new article of clothing under the tree located next to the Extension Office in the Courthouse on or before Wednesday, December 19.

Gifts are for children ages infant to teenage. If you know of a child in need or would like additional information, please contact: Brigitte Brucklacher, FCCLA adviser, at Philip High School at 859-2680.

Help make a difference in the life of a child!

There are only TWO days left!

Get your nominations in for the holiday lighting contest! Judging will take place on Sunday, December 16th. The list is very slim yet - let’s beef it up and have a REAL contest! If you haven’t been out and about to see the lights, consider doing it tonight and then call Janice F with your nominations.

One of the top list-makers in Study Circles was the idea of Adult Education classes. People wanted to see classes on everything from cake decorating and dancing to financial planning and computer knowledge. Horizons is pleased to announce that in the near future we will be offering several Financial Peace University courses.

Financial Peace University is a 13-week program developed by best-selling author and radio talk show host Dave Ramsey. Dave teaches each class via video, which is then followed by group discussion for accountability and motivation. Here are the topics covered:

Super Saving
In this lesson, Dave explains the Seven Baby Steps that will guide you throughout FPU. You will also learn the three key reasons why you should save money—and why you must start now!

Relating With Money
This lesson will teach spouses how to communicate and work together toward success. Also, singles will learn the importance of teamwork and parents will find out how to teach their kids about money.

Cash Flow Planning
Unlock the secret of developing a monthly spending plan that really works.

Dumping Debt
It’s time to debunk the myths that most people believe about debt! In this lesson, Dave Ramsey reveals the truth about the credit lies and gives you a plan for walking out of debt with confidence.

Credit Sharks in Suits
What is a credit score, anyway? Join Dave as he unpacks your credit rating and shows you how to handle collectors when they call.

Buyer Beware
Dave Ramsey draws on decades of experience to reveal the power and influence that marketing has on your everyday buying decisions. Let the buyer beware!

Clause and Effect
In this lesson, Dave walks you through the world of insurance, carefully explaining what you need—and what you need to avoid.

That’s Not Good Enough!
Discover the seldom-used secrets of buying only big, big bargains—every time! Before you know it, you’ll be saying “That’s not good enough!”

Of Mice and Mutual Funds
Dave breaks through the jargon surrounding long-term investing and empowers you to make your own decisions about your investments!

From Fruition to Tuition
Dave walks you through the maze of retirement options and helps you figure out the right path for you. You will also learn how to plan for college so your kids can graduate debt free!

Working in Your Strengths
This lesson will show you how to avoid dead-end or mind-numbing jobs and provide tips for job hunting, writing a résumé, and acing an interview. Plus, you’ll learn tips for finding extra jobs if you need cash to attack your debt snowball.

Real Estate and Mortgages
Dave draws on over 20 years of real estate experience to teach you how to win when buying or selling your home. Plus, he’ll dissect all of the common mortgage options available today, showing you what to choose—and what to avoid.

The Great Misunderstanding
Warning! This lesson will challenge the way you think about money. Dave will show you how generous giving can completely revolutionize your attitude and improve your finances, business and relationships.

Typically, the cost for each individual or family kit for Financial Peace University is approximately $139.00. Horizons is fortunate to bring this series of classes to 34 individuals/couples for FREE. We will begin running classes sometime after the new year begins. Depending on interest, we will likely break those 34 into 3-4 separate “classes”. Watch for upcoming announcements. This is one you won’t want to miss. It’s educational and it’s for EVERYONE - even if you feel like your financial life is completely under control, let these classes serve as a refresher!

If you’d like to read more about this program, you can find additional information here

In 1994, a group of women started brainstorming on how they could make Philip a better place to live. That original group of eight now numbers fifty-four. Nowadays, their projects are just as numerous.

They began with Art in the Park for local talent with the ladies serving brats, hot dogs and root beer floats and haven’t stopped since.

Other projects include assisting in refurbishing the Memorial Field sign and the landscaping in front of the sign, selling t-shirts with the Philip logo, purchasing ‘Welcome to Philip’ banners & Christmas banners for the downtown area, helping the city to purchase Christmas decorations for downtown, purchasing large flowerpots for downtown and caring for the plants during the spring & summer, holding an annual blood drive, giving to the Ministerial Association to help people in need and many, many more.

Their largest project was the Fire Hall Park. They were involved in landscaping, seeding, installing a sprinkler system and a covered picnic area. They continue the upkeep on the Park.

They give ‘Good As Gold Awards’ and ‘Kids Who Care Awards’ to individuals in the community.

Their biggest fund raiser and the project that truly identifies them is the ‘Birthday Ladies’ with several hundred birthday songs having been sung by them through the years. For a fee, they will travel around town and serenade individuals celebrating birthdays. They wear hats that fit the season and sometimes appear in black hats and veils should you be reaching an important milestone of life.

The goal of the organization is to do everything that is necessary to make Philip A Better Place To Live.

Grace says…

ASSETS

“The Kiddy Park is an asset because it is a nice place for kids to play.”

“The swimming pool is an asset because it is a good place for adults and kids to spend time in the summer.”

“The hospital is an asset because it is nice to not have to go far to see a doctor if you are sick or hurt.”

“The library is an asset because it is nice to go find a book or research on the computer.”

“The movie theater is an asset because it is nice to go watch a movie on a weekend and not have to go to Rapid City.”

IT WOULD BE NICE IF…

“…we had a place to spend time like an arcade or a fitness center to go and work out at.” (Perhaps this vacant building.)

“…we had a more roomy library so you could read there or have a place for more new books.”

“…we had a sidewalk on the school hill so we wouldn’t have to walk in the street or in the mud.”

Thank you Grace!

On Sunday, December 2nd, community members presented the Christmas Contata entitled Joy in This Place by O.D. Hall Jr.

It was directed by Barb B. and narrated by Kieth S.

Soloists were Elvera M, Maureen P, Deb S, and Kerry H.

(I wish I had a complete list of participants, and I could probably come close by looking at photos, but I’d hate to miss someone. So, if anyone has a list you might want to share, let me know!)

Click on the photos to make them larger.  Makes it easier to have a good look!

Jeb says…

ASSETS

“Picture one is of the Fire Hall Park. It is very well kept and is a nice place to have a picnic with your family.”

“Picture two is of the elementary playground. It has all new stuff that is better and safer than the old stuff.”

“Picture three is of the Kiddie Park. It is fun for all children. I enjoy taking my niece to the park.”

“Picture four is the swimming pool, which is fun for all ages and everyone enjoys it.”

THINGS THAT COULD BE CHANGED

“Picture five is of the football field. It needs to be ripped up and redone.”

“Picture six is of the ‘dust bowl’. It needs to be ripped up and grass needs to be planted.”

“Picture seven is of the softball field. The bleachers need to be painted and the concessions stand should be redone.”

THANK YOU JEB!

Tate says….

“The football field needs to somehow be fixed up. It would be nice if the bare spots had grass.”

“Not very many towns have a Kiddie Park as nice as this one!”

“This is the old museum. I think they should do something with this building. Either reopen it or put it to use in some other way.”

“Not very many towns have a movie theater!” (This is Philip’s very own Gem Theater!)

“Very few towns have as nice of a hospital and nursing home as we do!”

Thank you Tate!!!

We asked Mrs. O’Connor (English teacher) to help us out with a project for Visioning. She and Kelly came up with an assignment that she gave to the Junior class. We asked them to take 6-8 photos: a few of those being of things they liked about our community and a few of those being of things they thought need to be improved. With the photos, we asked that they give a little write-up about why they chose the things they did.

We’ve got lots of pictures to scan in and share - so I’m hoping to be able to post at least one student’s work per day. Bear with me. Scanning photos is not my favorite thing to do (wink) and I need to enhance several of them. The new digital technology sure makes the photos taken with disposable cameras look less than desirable!

So - THANK YOU Mrs. O’Connor and the Junior Class at PHS. We appreciate and value your input and dedication to the Horizons project!

My name is Michelle and I’m learning how to blog. We have a good teacher, so we should do well!

My name is Karen R.   I am a third grade teacher and I’ll be writing blogs for the elementary children.

I’m learning how to blog as a member of the Horizons team. Let’s see what happens?!

Hi!
This is Deb Smith. I will be blogging for Philip High School. Just learning right now!