Although the costumes and wagons from the 2010 summer holiday parades have long been put away, I still have a warm appreciation for the many volunteers involved, especially those from the Blaine County Museum's Heritage Court Committee. As a member of the 2010 court, I was impressed with the overall mission of the project and the thoughtful attention to the well-being of court members at each of the six events.
Hats off to committee Director Laura Hall, Marilyn Shilue, Mike Healy and the team of behind-the-scenes volunteers needed for such pageantry. According to Teddie Daley, museum director and committee volunteer, this living-history project, now in its seventh year, had earlier won national recognition from the Smithsonian Museum of Washington, D.C.
This year, members of the court were nominated by the Wood River Lions Club, the Cary Senior Center, the Hailey Masonic Lodge and The Community Library from the service-oriented women who had lived in their communities at least 30 years. Next year, a new group of local organizations will be asked to make the nominations, thus assuring over the years the court's broad community-wide representation.
Through this Blaine County Museum project, my life was enriched by making new friendships with court members Phyllis Stelma, Bellevue; Jean Pyrah, Carey; and Fern Stephenson, Hailey, as well as with the committee volunteers. It was also enriched by experiencing the unique character of these four Blaine County communities as our group joined with them to share holiday fun face-to-face.
The volunteer spirit helps to meet local needs and brings together those of us who have moved here recently from far and wide and those of us who have been active here over the years. There are many ways to volunteer in Blaine County. Join the spirit.
Sally Donart
Ketchum
