Columbus, MT

The Town of Columbus is an affiliate member of the Montana Main Street Program. This program provides resources for economic revitalization efforts in the downtown area of Columbus. The focus of the program was a vacant lot on Main Street that was the result of a fire in 2001. This area is a true sign of aesthetic poverty in the community.

The Beautification Committee from the Horizons program has decided to partner with the Main Street Project. This will eliminate a duplication of efforts and allow the program volunteers to work together, rather than pull energy from one another . Please contact Melissa Kramer, Stillwater County Economic Development Coordinator, 322-8050 with any questions.

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/06/30/montana-main-street-program-partnership/

The Columbus Horizon’s Steering Committee initiated several conversations across the community to involve several organizations and key players in the Horizons process. The committee felt that this was necessary in order to make the Horizons project thrive in our community. Too often in small communities such as Columbus, new projects are seen as efforts that come and go with little to no impact. Sharing the opportunity that existed through Horizons was very important. Many of the organizations were those that we felt could help us involve all socio-economic classes and bring more awareness to our committee about eliminating the barriers that exist for those in poverty. The following are dates of meetings that were held across the community.

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/06/30/horizons-collaborations/

The Beautification Committee came about as a result of the Horizon’s Study Circles that were held in 2007. Most of the comments from these groups were centered around a feeling that Columbus looked uncared for, neglected and poor when you drive into town. There were areas that needed to be cleaned up and improved, our main street looked neglected and inactive and more Welcome signage was needed at the entrances to town to welcome visitors and invite them to stop and shop.

Several projects were proposed. Among the suggestions were cleaning up the downtown, uncovering the sidewalk on the park side of the street, renovating storefronts, creating a park in the empty lot on Pike and 5th Streets, a “Come into Columbus” sign on I-90 at the Springtime Road exit to bring them into the downtown business district and signage at other entrances to Columbus.

We felt that it is important to develop a brand for the town–something that is unique to the area, will distinguish us and be used on everything from signs to brochures. In order to develop this we needed to partner with the city. During this time the city approved funding for the National Historic Preservation Main Street program. We felt with that it would be a good fit with our goals as a Beautification Committee. We see that our other goals will need more involvement, are more long term and by being active in the Main Street program we can accomplish this together. Other people have been independently working on some of the same ideas, such as the Pike and 5th Street lot development and we will be able to achieve more if we all work together. As a result of Horizon’s meetings and discussions some of those people have now joined the Beautification Committee.

Our first goal was to restore the things that we already have in place that were good. We received a grant from Horizon’s to restore the Welcome sign at the corner of 9th and Diamond Streets and replant the planter box underneath it. The sign was taken down, repaired and repainted. The posts were shortened to give it better proportions and making it easier to read. We took out all of the planting that were in the planter box, removed the old dirt and replaced it with new soil. New shrubs, landscape roses and a collection of red tulips were planted. This was a good beginning project-not too big or complex and involved a lot of volunteers. The result was a bright, shiny welcome to our town.

Our second project was the renovation of the large Columbus sign in Rail Road Park on Pike Avenue. We needed to replace the reader board, buy new letters and a new face panel. Thru a Horizon’s grant, and by partnering with the Columbus Community Action Network, we were able to purchase a new board, new tracks, letters and a new face panel and add a fourth line so the messages can be more complete. We will be able to repaint the upper portion of the sign this summer, using paint left from the small welcome sign that has the same Columbus logo. This sign, in the center of downtown, is a community bulletin board, promoting events of community organizations in Columbus. Political and commercial messages are not allowed unless it is for an event and not for political candidates or to promote sales.

We continue to focus on the transforming the appearance of our town into a prosperous community and one that we can take pride in.

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/06/27/final-horizons-beautification-committee-report/

The Horizons study circles on poverty brought forth the idea that there needs to be a means to fight financial poverty through the opportunity for supplemental income. The farmers’ market provides such an avenue for sellers at the farmers’ market. Also, through the discount for youth sellers, young people have a way to supplement their income as well and to help them learn how to become responsible, productive adults.

A successful farmers’ market was held each Thursday afternoon in August and the first two Thursdays in September 2007. An estimated 250 to 300 persons attended each week.

Based on the success of last year’s market, which began as an August-only event and was then extended into September, the 2008 Columbus Farmers’ Market will begin in mid-July and run until mid-September. It will once again take place on Thursday afternoons in Railroad Park, beginning July 24th and running through September 11th. The farmers’ market committee hopes to welcome back most, if not all, of last year’s sellers and add to add several more. Again, the targeted items for the market will be fresh garden produce, eggs, plants, baked goods, preserves, etc. Local musicians provided music for many of the farmers’ markets in 2007, and are expected to return in 2008. Picnic tables will once again be available for people to sit and socialize. In rural Montana, the farmers’ market will be an avenue to help fight social poverty by providing support systems. Also, it is planned to have a vendor present at most of the markets to sell food suitable for the dinner hour. Registration forms and health rules are currently available at the Stillwater Extension Office, located in the Courthouse. The contact person, Marcia, may also be contacted at 321-1377 for further information.

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/06/26/horizons-accomplishments-farmers-market/

From the visioning event came the realization for the need to establish a community foundation to capture wealth in the community so that grants could be distributed to sustain Columbus as a thriving community. A kick-off event was hosted by Kent & Pam Williams on May 13, 2008. As a result, donations toward the endowment have continued to come in for a total of $20,150 as of this writing. The decision was made to affiliate with the Montana Community Foundation, as they have many benefits. Another fund raising event for the Columbus Community Foundation will be scheduled in the fall. Currently, to become a self-sustaining entity, the Columbus Community Foundation is forming a diverse board and considering non-profit status application. The Montana Community Foundation has provided two $2,500 matching grants that will be granted to non-profit organizations in Columbus.

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/06/26/horizons-accomplishments-community-foundation/

In 2007, the Horizons Steering Committee distributed “flags” at community events. The “flag” theme was decided upon for the Freedom Celebration. Each of these “flags” displayed a different question regarding the Columbus Community. The flags were a great success and the Horizons Steering Committee continued to distribute them at the county fair, each of the farmers’ markets, and some of the businesses in the community. This medium facilitated the opportunity for people to visualize the assets and challenges of the Columbus community that were discussed in each of the six Study Circles Meetings. A history map was also completed by a variety of residents in Columbus during the 100th year celebration for the community. This map detailed great events in the history of Columbus to be utilized in the Community Visioning Process.

Columbus community needed to have input from 270 residents in order to meet the Horizons threshold and to have a successful visioning event in the fall of 2007. In all, 295 residents gave input, which was compiled and used in the visioning event on October 14, 2007, where participants developed a vision statement for Columbus in 2020:

Columbus is a safe, progressive community that values its people and honors and preserves its history. Its character is reflected in its active community involvement, youth development, and the support of a self-sustaining business environment. Columbus is a place where all community members can thrive, prosper, and grow.

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/06/26/horizons-accomplishments-visioning/

What’s Happening in 2008?

The second annual Columbus Farmers’ Market is gearing up for a successful season in 2008. Based on the success of last year’s market, which began as an August-only event and was then extended into September, this year’s market will begin in mid-July and run until mid-September. It will once again take place on Thursday afternoons in Railroad Park, beginning July 24th and running through September 11th. Organizers expect nearly all of last year’s sellers to return and they hope to add more. The items sold at the Market are fresh garden produce, eggs, plants, baked goods and preserves. Registration forms may be picked up at the Extension Office in the Courthouse at 400 E 3rd Ave N in Columbus, or a call may be made to Marcia at 321-1377 for further information.

How Did the Farmers’ Market Originate?

The farmers’ market in Columbus grew out of the idea that surfaced in one of the Horizons study circles held from January to March 2007. The study circle participants felt that a farmers’ market would help Columbus to becoming a thriving self-sufficient community. In early 2007, a committee was formed to explore the interest among sellers in the local area. The committee consisted of Barbara Archer, Mary Kuehn and Marcia Spano. Jerry Nye came on as Market Master. Mary Schimmele and Shawn and Georgie Shifley participated in the committee on behalf of Columbus Community Action Network. The committee felt that the ability for area residents to purchase locally grown produce was a good first step toward community self-sufficiency. In addition, the market was a way to address economic poverty by allowing those raising produce to expand their income and by making healthy, nutritious food available at very reasonable prices. Also, one could argue that the farmers’ market addresses social poverty by providing a venue for people to come together once a week, socialize, and have a good time. Local musicians provided music for many of the farmers’ markets in 2007, and are expected to return in 2008. Many of the musicians traveled 60-90 miles round-trip to attend. Picnic tables were available for people to sit and socialize. Also a vendor was present at most of the markets to sell food suitable for the dinner hour.

In fact, it became a weekly event where all ages of individuals—from children to senior citizens enjoyed their time at the Columbus Farmers’ Market. The crowd at the first market was so strong that nearly everyone sold out within the first 45 minutes. There were 10 sellers pre-registered for the first market on Aug 2, and three more were added the day of the market. There were 14 sellers at the 2nd market and even though everyone brought more to sell, again most sold out within the first hour. By the 3rd week, the market was up to 22 sellers and continued to have strong crowds. The market was a great success with the Columbus community, and surrounding communities of Absarokee, Park City, Rapelje and Reed Point really embracing it. The crowds were there promptly at 4 pm and people continued to arrive during the 3 hour period, to buy product, socialize, listen to the musicians and have hamburgers and hotdogs from a local vendor. It is estimated that 200-300 people attended the market each week. It is also estimated that 200 people attended on September 6, even though rain showers threatened. At the peak time of participation, approximately 250 to 300 folks were in attendance.

A follow-up survey sent to vendors showed that the majority were very satisfied with their experience with the Columbus Farmers’ Market and expected to participate again. All were satisfied with the day of the week, the time of year, and the location.

What are Expected Changes for 2008?

In 2008, a promotional push will continue with fliers for the public and increased levels of advertising in local newspapers. The committee also hopes to purchase banners which can be put in conspicuous places in town to further promote the event. Name tags and lanyards will allow for easy vendor and committee member identification at the market. Other promotional items will include aprons and grocery bags with the market logo that will be sold at the market. In addition it is expected that the number of vendors will increase this year. With the accelerated price of fuel, the committee is anticipating an increase in buyers as they become “locavores” by purchasing locally produced foods. Thus, the Columbus Farmers’ Market can also help address economic poverty by providing this opportunity.

In 2008 an attempt was made to allow for low-income individuals to participate in the farmers’ market. However, former trials in other counties have shown that it is not that viable, and thus it will not be possible in Columbus as yet.

With Whom Did the Farmers’ Market Committee Collaborate?

• AERO Montana (Alternative Energy Resources Organization) provided a farmers’ market handbook with lots of useful information as to how to organize and run a market. We used that resource to develop the application and rules for the market. The Columbus market is listed on their website.
• Stillwater County Environmental Health Department helped the committee with health and food safety guidelines. Great support was provided by Keith Bell, environmental health director. With his help, the committee put together an information packet for potential sellers that includes an application, a set of farmers’ market rules and a set of the Health Department Guidelines.
• CCAN (Columbus Community Action Network) was contacted to take advantage of their knowledge about organizing events in Columbus. They were also quite enthusiastic about the idea and offered their support in all areas. In fact, the Columbus Farmers’ Market is now under the auspices of CCAN, which will help for sustainability of the market in years to come.
• The Town of Columbus granted permission for use of the local park, located along the railroad frontage in downtown Columbus.
• Local companies with advertising boards helped to promote the market with dedicated space for the listing of the event.
• Montana Department of Agriculture has developed a website for farmers’ markets in Montana, and Columbus Farmers’ Market is now listed with them in the 2008 Montana Farmers’ Market Guide. http://farmersmarkets.mt.gov/

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/06/04/columbus-farmers%e2%80%99-market-from-talk-to-action/

A successful Farmer’s Market, a new welcome sign, and an afterschool program are all great examples of how poverty is being addressed in Columbus, Montana. These projects were all made possible with grant funding through the Northwest Area Foundation Horizons program. As this program begins to sunset, the Columbus Horizons Steering Committee has come to realize that a source of funding to continue addressing poverty issues, such as those aforementioned, is imperative.

The focus of the Horizons Steering Committee has become the development of the Columbus Community Foundation. This Foundation will assist Columbus in being a more self sustainable community and will serve as a financial partner for all non-profit organizations in the community of Columbus. In this capacity, the Community Foundation will be a neutral organization operating through donations, endowments, bequests in a will, planned giving, etc. Our mission is to promote philanthropy, receive and administer charitable gifts, and invest in programs that improve the quality of life by building a permanent endowment perpetuating the vitality of the Columbus Community.

Utilizing a $1500 Horizons grant that was administered through the Montana Community Foundation, the Steering Committee organized the Columbus Community Foundation Kick off Reception. This event was held on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at the home of Kent and Pam Williams. Approximately thirty Columbus community members attended the event. Cathy Cooney of the Montana Community Foundation educated attendees on the opportunity that exists in establishing a community foundation in Columbus. Millard Cox, the founder of the Absarokee Community Foundation shared the benefits that the Absarokee community has seen through their foundation.

Kent and Pam Williams presented a challenge to the community to match $5,000.00. This match was quickly met by Joel Harris for Yellowstone Bank. The Columbus Community Foundation was founded immediately with $14,550.00 through generous contributions of others in the Community.

The Horizons Community Action Grant made this extraordinary event possible. The funding from the grant supported the development and printing of invitations, brochures, thank you notes, donor cards, and mailing labels as well as the food catering for the evening. The grant allowed the Steering Committee to contract Jessica Burch, Columbus High School alum with expertise in graphic design and marketing, to develop a logo and theme for all of the foundation materials that will be used into the future for promotion of the foundation. The grant provided a prestigious and professional head start to the foundation that would have not been possible otherwise.

The efforts of the evening, the establishment of a significant amount of funds, and affiliation with the Montana Community Foundation will allow the Columbus Community Foundation to do some immediate granting in the community. The focus of these grants will be determined through the Columbus Community Foundation Board of Directors. These grants will be open to the non – profit organizations in Columbus and will assist them in reaching their goals and fulfilling their missions. These non-profits represent a broad segment of the community and represent all social economic classes including the young people and senior citizens.

The reception was also an opportunity to once again share the success stories of the Horizons program. People were again made aware of the leadership capabilities within the community, as well as the skills to facilitate group discussions that have been gained through the Horizons process. In a small community, such as Columbus, new events and projects surface often. Not everyone is aware who is accountable for those successes. Credit due was given to those successes, such as the Farmer’s Market, that have been made possible through Horizons.

The Horizons Steering Committee is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Horizons project and utilize the grant funding to support poverty reduction and make Columbus a more thriving community. The Community Foundation has been a very promising and gratifying effort in bringing the community together to battle these issues. This Community Foundation will benefit the community as a whole and its unique structure as a foundation will allow all members of the community to be philanthropic at any level and leave a lasting legacy in Columbus, the community that has served individuals, families, organizations and businesses alike.

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/05/30/community-action-grant-ii-report/

Many people are not aware of the role that Horizons has taken in encouraging cooperation between the people of Columbus. Though some may know that the Farmers’ Market was brought in part by the Horizons Project, they sometimes forget the many things that went on before anything that visible could be accomplished. They don’t remember the things like Study Circles or Leadership Plenty.

Leadership Plenty was one of the biggest successes of Horizons, because not only did it bring together people from Columbus, but people from surrounding communities such as Absarokee. Different people would be at each meeting, but everyone still managed to cooperate and learn about the best kind of change that could be brought to their own homes.

Study Circles were another huge accomplishment. Not only did the people in those groups have to cooperate with each other and respect different opinions, but the three main areas that Horizons is focused on–Mentoring, Beautification, and the Farmers’ Market–grew from the Study Circles.

Now, Horizons can be seen in the beautification projects that it has already completed, and ones that it will do in the future. The strong Farmers’ Market is another accomplishment. The most important thing that Horizons has done is not an individual project, but the unification of a community. Many steps still have to be taken to truly accomplish this goal, but come later this summer, the first step can already be seen in the turnout for the Farmers’ Market.

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/05/27/horizons-makes-a-difference/

Thanks to Columbus School District, the Horizons Mentoring Committee had a tremendous response to their afterschool survey. Approximately 160 surveys were turned in at the elementary and middle schools.

Following is a summary of results:

1. 93% of the respondents indicated that an afterschool program would benefit children in the Columbus community.
2. Youths in upcoming grades 4-6 seemed to have the greatest number of youths who would participate in an afterschool program.
3. The highest ranked activities which respondents thought should be a part of the afterschool program included: homework/study help, reading/writing, arts & crafts, fun, playing games/fun activities, sports, learning with fun activities, exercise/physical activity, art/music/acting.
4. 47% indicated that they would need some form of transportation for their child(ren) to get to the afterschool program.
5. Many comments were also submitted with the surveys.

The Horizons Mentoring Committee wishes to thank everyone who responded to the survey. It wishes to thank Superintendent Al Sipes for his support of distributing the survey in the Columbus Schools Newsletter, and the administration from the Columbus Middle School and Columbus Elementary School as well as the teachers and office staff for their assistance in distributing the survey to the classrooms and providing places to turn in the surveys. In addition, thank you to Roxie Holden from Stageline Pizza and the Stillwater Coalition for supplying treats for the kids for doing their part by returning their surveys to the schools. Most of all, thank you to the parents; your community support is greatly appreciated.

http://columbus.communityblogs.us/2008/05/20/after-school-program-interest/