"People are often powerless, alone, afraid; this is because someone else is telling their stories for them." 'You are ugly. You are undesirable. You are useless'. Through storytelling, you recognize your own story." ~ Joseph Bruchac~
Monday, 26 January 2009 - 12:59 PM MST
Name: "Shelly Dearen"
I really enjoyed visting the center, and was unaware of it's presence and purpose. I thought Mr. Smiley was knowledgable and had a great sense of humor.
Tuesday, 27 January 2009 - 8:28 AM MST
Name: "Sarah Coelho"
Hello Everyone!
I am excited to get back to work this semester! At our last meeting we visited the Indian Center, which I did not even know existed. It was great to learn about this facility, and meet the director Mr. Smiley (hope that is the correct spelling). We were able to learn about the services provided by the center, the funding and some personal life experiences of Mr. Smiley as well. This visit was very informative and interesting. It was also a great change of scenery! At the center, we were able to discuss the course, touch on some important issues that will arise throughout the semester, and connect with one another through introductions of ourselves, more specifically the origins and family stories related to our name. It was fascinating to hear where everyone got their name, and some background information. I look forward to working with and getting to know all of you!
Sarah
Wednesday, 28 January 2009 - 9:27 AM MST
Name: "Samantha Petree"As our first class of the semester I found it interesting that we were not in a traditional classroom but what better way to learn. I also did not know that the Indian Center existed. I am excited to learn that it does exist and is a nice part of our community. I do hope they can get a new location to make the rest of the area aware that this place exists. I'm interested to learn what events they hold throughout the year. I would also recommend that they post a web page, send out mail, or even put some posters around town to notify the people of it's existence.
Wednesday, 28 January 2009 - 1:49 PM MST
Name: "Rebekah Schofield"
I thoroughly enjoyed our first day of class. The "gibberish" exercise was fun, and it was interesting to visit the Indian Cultural Center; I had heard about it on the radio but it is nice to know where it is. When I got home and shared my experience with my husband he was all for trying the food. It was also nice to be in a different atmosphere to conduct our class.
The best part of the class was getting to know each other. I have been taking classes with several of you women and was so glad to find out more about you. You are really remarkable. I also enjoyed the discussion that followed about how we are educating minority children. I am very anxious to continue the conversation and figure out where I really stand on those issues. This is shaping up to be a very interesting semester...
Wednesday, 28 January 2009 - 10:43 PM MST
Name: "Valerie Hall"I thought our first class together was not only enriching but also enjoyable. I was enriched by learning about the Indian Center from Mr. Smiley and also learning about him personally. I loved hearing about each of my classmates names and heritages. It is also a treat for me to participate in a class with France's energy and enthusiasm guiding us.
Thursday, 29 January 2009 - 1:06 PM MST
Name: "Tammie"I had a great time visiting the Indian center. I do not go often but as Mr. Smiley stated I do go mainly for the food. It was nice to know the history of the center and the prominent local figures who enabled the center to thrive for the community. The staff was certainly nice and it was nice to know of the resources that are there for our use.