Return of the Turkey Shoot

 The weekend before Thanksgiving, Don Geary and Bill Rountree reinstated the annual turkey shoot down at the dump south of Baker. This had been a long-time fundraiser for the local EMTs, but was discontinued seven years ago for various reasons. This year they were ready to try it again, and enthusiastic sharpshooters turned out despite the cold weather. The funds this year benefited the Great Basin Water Network to help protect Snake Valley's water.

 The shoot consisted of many categories, and after each round, participants checked how they did. Whoever won that round won a turkey.

 It was interesting seeing the different guns folks had.

 The kids got involved, too, and there was even a special class just for them.

To make the day even better, refreshments were available.

Hopefully next year will bring an even bigger crowd to this fun Snake Valley event.

Border Inn Craft Fair Today

 Get ready for Christmas and support local crafters today at the Border Inn Craft Fair. It's from 1-5 pm (PDT). Quite a few crafters are expected. Some local groups (4-H, Community Center) will also be raising money at the event.

 Here are some photos from last year's craft fair.

Come join the fun!

2014 Snake Valley Calendars for Sale

It's that time of year to start planning for 2014, and what better way to plan than with a beautiful 2014 Snake Valley Calendar! Every month enjoy a stunning scene from Snake Valley.

Calendars cost $15 each, 2 for $25, or bigger quantities at a discount. You can buy them at the Border Inn or from Susan Wetmore. Susan is able to send calendars by mail (approximately $3 s&h for 1 calendar and $5 s&h for 2 calendars). You can reach her by email: sywetmore @ wirelessbeehive.com or phone: 775-234-7265.

Proceeds go to the Great Basin Water Network to pay legal and specialist fees to help keep Snake Valley's water in the valley.

You can learn lots more about the wonderful features of Snake Valley on the Protect Snake Valley website.

What To Do during the Government Shutdown (and Great Basin National Park is Closed)

Great Basin National Park is officially closed during the Government Shutdown, which means no entry. That's a bummer with the fall colors changing, not to mention that the Lehman Caves Cafe had to shut a week early (and their employees unexpectedly had a week less of pay), and all the visitors that have traveled near and far now have to figure out what to do.

Fortunately Snake Valley has a treasure trove of wonderful things to do in it. We are blessed with many beautiful and interesting places. Here's a list of the Top Ten Things to Do in Snake Valley.

Wheel-a-thon 2013

 Baker and Garrison schools had their annual wheel-a-thon in mid-September. Despite some morning rain showers, the rain eventually stopped (or rather paused--we got more in the afternoon), allowing for most of the wheel-a-thon to happen in nice weather.

The Baker kids rode from Highway 6 & 50 to Garrison and back (16 miles), while the Garrison school kids rode one way (8 miles). The kids got a snack break at each mile.

 Even though many of these kids don't ride their bikes frequently, they all made it the whole distance. Way to go! They had friends and family pledge money per mile for the school.

It was a great event!

For more about the Wheel-a-thon, check out Jenny's blog!

EskDale Summer Concert

EskDale held two wonderful summer concerts in addition to the Fourth of July bonanza. These concerts are always a joy to attend, with a variety of musical talent showcased. Above, Sharon delights the crowd with a comical song--where she finds these gems, I don't know!

Lois always plays something fantastic and makes it look so easy!

If you missed these concerts, or even if you didn't, be sure to put December 12 & 13 on your calendar for more EskDale music, with the Christmas banquet and production. Looking forward to that makes it easier to handle the colder temperatures and shorter days!

2013 Snake Valley Days BBQ

 The Snake Valley Volunteer Fire Department holds an annual BBQ and dance as a fundraiser during the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. It was a great day for a BBQ, with nice weather. Here are a few photos from the event:

Making the root beer

Volunteers help prepare the meet

Part of the excellent dinner--the baked potato and roll didn't fit!

Melissa was part of the awesome behind-the-scenes crew that made it all happen. Thanks!

To see more photos, check out the SVVFD's Facebook page.

Thanks to everyone who came and helped at the BBQ!