Visitors take in a view of the pools at a tour of the Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort elected officials and others join a VIP preview and tour of the Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort elected officials and others are given a VIP preview and tour of the Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort elected officials and others are given a VIP preview and tour of the Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort in LaVerkin A view of the pools can be seen durning a tour of the Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort The changing area inside the Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort can be seen in LaVerkin showing where the original LaVerkin Hot Springs was located on the Virgin River A view of the pools at a tour of the Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort can be seen in LaVerkin The Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort in is tentatively set to open this summer in LaVerkin The Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort is tentatively set to open in LaVerkin A VIP preview and tour was given at the Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort in LaVerkin This rendering depicts the 21-plus area of the Zion Canyon Hot Springs Resort in LaVerkin This rendering shows the family area of the Zion Canyon Hot Springs Resort in LaVerkin At an open house near the LaVerkin Hot Springs last month area civic leaders and business officials gathered at the newly constructed Zion Canyon Hot Springs Resort for information and tours to hear plans about an opening later this summer “We are incredibly excited to be here in the area,” Maggie Cope vice president of marketing for Zion Canyon Hot Springs “It’s a great time to come in and enjoy the natural hot springs as well as the mineral springs right here in beautiful LaVerkin.” The hot springs resort will feature 53 pools split between a family and 21-plus adult areas and sits near state Route 9 northeast of the Hurricane-LaVerkin Bridge The 15-acre property consists of three acres leased from the Washington County Water Conservancy District swimsuit dryers and 1,200 RFID lockers that use chip-enabled wristbands to access a family area has various smaller pools and one large freshwater pool A smaller building houses the resort’s bar and café and an adjacent gate separates the family area from the adult side of the property “Each one of them is inspired by famous hot springs from around the world,” Cope said explaining that these pools will have an identical mineral mix to well-known hot springs like the Blue Lagoon in Iceland and the hot springs of the Dead Sea the world springs will boast the same health benefits associated with each one that inspires them “You’re getting a tour of the world right here in LaVerkin,” Cope said Thirty-two pools spread across the family and the 21-plus area are filled with water piped from the LaVerkin spring in the canyon nearby Some of the pools will also be filled with heated geothermal waters from the hot spring Cope added that water from the hot spring goes through the resort’s filtration system and removes the minerals and elements that create the sulfur smell natural hot springs are famous for This includes the salt that would otherwise enter the Virgin River “Most of our build out is actually in the water pumping system that’s removing the H2S gas and making it safe for use and also getting rid of that rotten egg smell,” Cope said flammable and highly toxic gas with a characteristic foul odor of rotting eggs It is highly toxic to humans and most animals and can be deadly Water district officials have been a great asset as partners in helping the resort make sure it operates safely and benefits both the environment and visitors “They have been heavily involved in the project to make sure it’s the best facility possible,” Cope said Water filtered and used by the resort is returned to the Virgin River in a cleaner state than when it was taken According to the Washington County Water Conservancy District the hot spring produces approximately 5,000 gallons of water a minute which translates to up to 7 million gallons daily at an average temperature of 107 degrees Fahrenheit The spring also dumps 109,000 tons of salt into the Virgin River which makes its way down the Colorado River This has created water quality and use issues downstream that the water district and federal agencies have been working to address Before the hot springs’ closures in 2013 due to health and safety concerns, it was a popular recreation site for locals since the late 1800s With nearly 5 million visitors to Zion National Park last year Zion Canyon Hot Springs is considered a great tourist attraction as it's 30 minutes from the park While the resort is bound to draw visitors from near and far Cope said it is a “top priority” to keep the hot springs accessible to Southern Utah residents Washington County residents will be given a 20% discount on resort visits “It’s very important to us that they can come in and can love these waters as they always have,” she said the resort is slated to produce a sizable amount of tax revenue for the local economy It is hoped that the resort will become a destination for tourists visiting Zion National Park that will create a spinoff effect While the onset of COVID-19 caused some setbacks, WorldSprings announced in August 2022 that the resort was moving forward and it’s going to be a big thing for LaVerkin and Washington County,” LaVerkin Mayor Kelly Wilson told St “This is going to be good for the city and all the businesses that are a part of LaVerkin and Hurricane as well.” The resort's operators aim for a tentative opening date of late June or early July when remaining infrastructure work is set to be completed along with members of the Zion Canyon Hot Springs resort project break ground of the incoming $60 million resort Email notifications are only sent once a day summary of the weather details and news of any severe weather We'll send breaking news and news alerts to you as they happen Receive Sunday Local Offers Coupons from St Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Invalid password or account does not exist Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password An email message containing instructions on how to reset your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account marks the official reopening of the Town of Hot Springs After seven months of repairing and rebuilding after Helene this mountain town is looking forward to a large-scale reopening Hot Springs is welcoming visitors to a variety of events 'THE TOWN IS ALIVE NOW': MARSHALL CELEBRATES REOPENING 7 MONTHS AFTER HELENE so I’m thankful for the hospitality,” said Draheim He described using the time to refuel before continuing his hiking journey being wet and smelly for like a week on the trails A handful of businesses have already been in full operation since the reopening 'IT'S PROGRESS': US-64 REBUILD BEGINS AFTER MONTHS OF POST-HELENE DEBRIS REMOVAL Mark Salter said he looks forward to seeing more visitors The fun continues this weekend during the large-scale reopening of Hot Springs: the beloved and definitely not ageless Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum… and Hot Springs Wiseguys arena league football arena-style football organization are hoping that their upcoming inaugural season is a natural fit for what the town’s tourism boosters have long called “America’s First Resort.” The Hot Springs Wiseguys are set to debut at Bank OZK Arena on Saturday high-scoring football to make the case that they could belong as a fixture on the Hot Springs entertainment landscape “It’s going to be loud; it’s going to be packed,” said Wiseguys General Manager Chris Goodman “Fans are going to be right on top of the field We’re going to be able to hold almost 4,000 people there and it’s going to be a fun place to play and to see a game I think a lot of people are going to be proud of what we’re building in Hot Springs.” Visit Hot Springs CEO Steve Arrison has seen more than most when it comes to entertainment and sports events in the Spa City Arrison has helped steer two major expansions of the city’s convention center in his 27-year career “It’ll be unique for Hot Springs; we’ve never had a football team like this I’m excited like everybody else to see the set-up and what it’s like,” he said The upstart Arena League’s interest in locating a franchise in Hot Springs makes some sense to Arrison The team’s eight-game summer schedule could pair nicely with the town’s well-earned and long-established to-do list the tourism season starts with Memorial Day and they play again once in June and twice in July I think it’s another great opportunity for visitors and residents of Hot Springs alike something else to do at night when you get off the lake or as part of your summer vacation so you have plenty of time to get off the lake or walk out of the national park or Magic Springs and you’ll still have time to eat and go see a football game,” Arrison said The players taking the field will have plenty to prove in a state where football is synonymous with the Arkansas Razorbacks Teams are made up of former college athletes and professionals who are navigating the often fleeting wild west world of non-NFL professional football Wiseguys receiver Aaron Dilworth qualifies as a seasoned veteran in the alphabet soup of leagues that have dotted the nation He’s played in the Canadian Football League who played college ball at Division II Texas A&M-Kingsville said playing for a brand new organization is exactly where he wants to be–for now “I think everybody’s goal is to be moved up and that was my motivation every game to go out there and show what I can do,” he said and eventually they’ll come get you–ball out and they’ll come get you–I think that’s on everybody’s mind there’s not a lot of guys getting those opportunities but it’s just a handful of guys that get that chance it’s a blessing to get these opportunities.” named after Hot Springs’s seedy history as a haven for quasi-illegal gambling and as a getaway for prohibition-era gangsters with franchise operating budgets at about $300,000 a year meals and training while they take home a modest $300 to $400 per game but Goodman says an agreement is expected to be finalized and announced early this summer with a local ownership group Backers of the league are quick to note that they’ve got realistic They’re not looking to emulate an NFL franchise or even the Indoor Football League where teams have budgets 10 times as large as the Arena League locally supported organization in small markets like Hot Springs are better served with different comparisons Wiseguys fans might instead take a look at potential league rivals Duluth General Manager Steve Walters absolutely beams when talking about his franchise which took home the league’s inaugural championship trophy last year The whole community could be proud of it; it was ours,” he said you’d probably think of this as a lesser version of football than what you’re used to this is a far more exciting version of football than you’ve ever experienced it’s so high scoring…it’s boiled down to pure adrenaline and action.” Walters makes it clear that the goal is to build support and sustainability and we have some good numbers in this league,” he said “Our team averaged 2,300 people per game with more than 10,000 people tuning in each game on our broadcasts online on our local TV station and our local sports radio station.” Central Arkansas sports fans of a certain age might remember the original (and unrelated) Arena Football League and the Arkansas Twisters The Twisters played from 2000 to 2009 in that league’s lower-tier AF2 before the leagues collapsed The team rebranded and moved to Texas before eventually folding While the league and team ultimately faltered the Twisters drew an average of 13,766 people per game in their first season at the then-new Alltel Arena (now Simmons Bank Arena) and brought in more than 5,000 fans per game for all but the final season in Little Rock Those are figures that might make minor league front offices in any sport envious Arena-style football has survived and occasionally thrived in fits and spurts across the nation since that era Its greatest emissary was undoubtedly NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner who spent three years in the arena football circuit before earning a roster spot on the St Louis Rams and leading the team to its first Super Bowl title in 2000 Nintendo 64’s “Kurt Warner’s Arena Football Unleashed” made the case pretty successfully that there’s something borderline subversive about the glory days of Arena Football and N64 Goodman was barely in elementary school when the Twisters last made their run at indoor football glory but it’s hard not to notice how the team might have influenced his future Goodman has spent a great deal of his adult life playing coaching and in the front office of small-scale The sudden emergence of the Hot Springs Wiseguys onto the gridiron might be an unexpected but it’s one that he’s been building toward for a long time “I was really young when the Twisters left My first-grade teacher’s husband actually played for the Twisters I remember just how awesome the family-fun entertainment side of it was,” he said “It’s something that has always stuck with me through my entire career and it doesn’t even have to cost a whole lot and it’s an entertaining Saturday night in Hot Springs.” The eight-game season runs from May 31 through July 26, and more information can be found here at hotspringswiseguys.com The Arena League is comprised of six franchises: the Wiseguys Joseph Goats and the Ozark Lunkers (Springfield READ ALSO: Heartland Whole Health Institute Debuts Wellness-Focused Facility Copyright © 2025 Arkansas Money and Politics by Payton Dhooge | Kylon Williams | Emma Allen LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — UPDATE (05/2/25): Following the controversy surrounding Dr the superintendent has been placed on administrative leave There is has been no confirmation as to if this administrative leave will be paid or unpaid will serve as interim superintendent until June a former superintendent of the High School will become the new superintendent for the next school year ORIGINAL: The Hot Springs School District Board of Directors has called a special meeting for Friday afternoon giving the public only hours of prior notice The meeting, scheduled for 5 p.m., comes just a day after postponing a vote on Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Nehus' future in the district. Thursday's meeting was held in regard to the recent arrest of Zachary Nehus upset about the superintendent's husband being arrested this week for a parole violation He was on parole following his 2016 conviction on 10 counts of distributing He was arrested after a sex offender compliance check was done at their home and evidence was found to arrest him for violating the terms and conditions of his parole According to the Superintendent's contract Stephanie Nehus is paid an annual rate of $192,610 The contract also outlines that "The Board shall have the right to terminate this Agreement for good cause." If the Board decides to terminate they will then give the Superintendent written notice and give Nehus the opportunity for a hearing Stephanie Nehus was in for a salary raise after the Board voted to approve a 4% across-the-board raise If the new contract is signed at the end of the school year the Superintendent's salary would be raised to an annual rate of $201,277 The current contract is set to expire on June 30 KARK – The Hot Springs School Board has placed Superintendent Dr Stephanie Nehus on administrative leave following growing public pressure from parents and community members The move comes just days after her husband a former Garland County teacher and registered sex offender was arrested for alleged parole violations connected to a prior child pornography conviction The board made the decision Friday night during a special executive session The administrative leave follows an initial decision on Thursday to keep Dr which sparked frustration among many parents parents are finally feeling heard,” parent Sara Jeffers said “I definitely do feel like people are finally listening to us.” Nehus did not attend the Thursday evening meeting Her husband was arrested April 29 after Garland County deputies said they discovered new evidence related to his previous conviction involving 30 counts of possessing child pornography That evidence is still undergoing forensic analysis Though many parents welcomed the board’s decision to place Dr questions remain about the terms of that leave “Do I agree that she should have a paid leave District officials did not clarify the terms of the leave following the meeting “While I’m happy at the moment that some kind of action has been taken there are so many more layers of corruption,” Jeffers added and I’m not going to not feel defeated until she is gone.” The board also voted to name Becky Rosburg the current assistant superintendent over federal programs Mike Hernandez is set to return and assume the role permanently starting July 1 While Boyett expressed relief over the leadership change she emphasized that parents will continue pressing for transparency and accountability “There is definitely some comfort,” she said KARK 4 News received a statement from Rosburg on her appointment the Hot Springs School District School Board met and made a motion to place Dr They also made a motion to appoint me as interim Superintendent until June 30 Mike Hernandez as Superintendent from July 1 As a graduate of the District and a staff member of 30 years love and support this District wholeheartedly and I’m proud that my grandchildren are enrolled in the District.  I want you to know that my approach in this interim role will be grounded in positivity and staff deserve consistency during this time of transition and I am committed to honoring the work already underway while ensuring our continued progress with the help of the entire administrative team will work diligently to renew your trust and support in our District.  Thank you for your continued commitment and support of our District It is an honor to serve in this new capacity.” Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" these are the actual most popular baby names so far in 2025 Whether it’s a short vacation or they’re jetting off to begin their career show the future traveler you care with a meaningful graduation gift National Teacher Appreciation Week begins May 5 take advantage of these freebies and deals VIDEO: Community members split as Hot Springs superintendent remains in position after husband’s arrest – The superintendent of the Hot Springs School District has been placed on leave following her husband’s arrest for parole violation tied to a previous child pornography conviction The Hot Springs School Board announced Friday evening that Dr Stephanie Nehus has been placed on administrative leave The board’s move comes after Nehus’ husband was arrested for parole violation after a 2016 conviction for possessing child pornography District officials said Assistant Superintendent Becky Rosburg will act as interim superintendent until June 30 Rosburg issued a statement about her appointment “I want you to know that my approach in this interim role will be grounded in positivity and above all Trojan Pride,” Rosburg said in part will work diligently to renew your trust and support in our District.” – A federal judge on Monday ordered former Hot Spring County Sheriff Scott Finkbeiner to be held in jail by U.S He had been jailed on Friday in Saline County Bryant issued a warrant for his arrest for witness tampering the judge heard testimony that Finkbeiner had tried to contact a witness using the Signal app but the judge was shown a screen shot of the incoming call to the witness’s phone Finkbeiner had been released pending sentencing but one of the terms of that release was to not contact any witnesses The court heard that his attempt using the Signal app took place eight days after his February plea deal Bryant said that it would be two to four months for attorneys to submit the pre-sentencing filing but Finkbeiner’s attorney Jeff Rosenzweig said his client’s incarceration should accelerate the process After court Rosenzweig said the Monday ruling was not the end of the matter we have the right to appeal this to Judge Hickey Rosenzweig added that since this one attempted contact to someone he thought was no longer a witness and a warning about doing so “He then was made to understand that the better idea was to stay off grid completely, and he’s followed that the last two and a half months,” the attorney said.  The former sheriff pleaded guilty in February to falsifying concealing and misleading information in an FBI drug activity investigation count two of the six federal charges he was facing related to the FBI investigation He resigned his position as sheriff the same day and is awaiting sentencing Finkbeiner had ceased all law enforcement duties as of December 2023 after federal and county charges were brought against him surrounding the FBI investigation Finkbeiner is still facing state charges in Hot Spring County of unauthorized access to criminal records for personal gain and a second charge of sexual solicitation.  windy and wet Sunday in Desert Hot Springs — where showers have been coming through on and off all day Viewers submitted videos showing rain pouring down in Desert Hot Springs neighborhoods across the valley News Channel 3's Shay Lawson spent the evening speaking with community members to get their reaction "It was hot yesterday and today it was raining but it's good for the land."   The News Channel 3 First Alert Weather Team is tracking conditions closely Download News Channel 3's mobile app for real-time updates and weather alerts News Channel 3 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here Terms of Service | Privacy Policy | Community Guidelines KESQ-TV FCC Public File | KPSP-TV FCC Public File | KDFX-TV FCC Public File | EEO Report | FCC Applications | Do Not Sell My Personal Information Sign In Subscribe Now Harrison Hot Springs took another step forward in their defence against wildfires.  Village officials and Sensenet representatives recently announced that the wildfire detection system from SenseNet is officially in place the system consists of 120 ground sensors situated throughout the East Sector Lands and on the east side of the village Five gateways and five cameras were installed at the village fire hall the Harrison Yacht Club building and the village's water reservoir.  Sensenet calls the system "ultra-early wildfire detection." If the sensors detect smoke village officials and emergency personnel will be notified of the potential fire's location and other data to assess the situation and take action as needed The technology detects fires and predicts movement based on AI-driven fire behaviour models. The average detection time of fire is approximately three minutes; Sensenet said that without this technology "We commend the Village of Harrison Hot Springs for taking a progressive mindset to implement innovative fire detection technology and install a proactive solution to safeguard residents businesses and thousands of tourists visiting their community," stated Sensenet CEO and co-founder Hamed Noori "The reliability and effectiveness of our platform will allow Harrison Hot Springs to detect fires in the earliest stages to reduce response times and complement firefighting efforts." Predator Ridge resort community in Vernon has used a Sensenet system since 2022 the system has detected 217 wildfires at their earliest stages the council voted to deploy a Sensenet system in the East Sector Lands Then-mayor Ed Wood sought to recall the motion at a special council meeting that same month Wood declared a State of Local Emergency (SOLE) Under the SOLE and without council's knowledge Wood signed a $175,000 agreement with Sensenet and an agreement with a professional forester to clear fuel near the East Sector Lands The SOLE was cancelled the following day at the request of the provincial government.  the nearest wildfire to Harrison Hot Springs was approximately 17 kilometres to the north.  "premature" contract signing resulted in renegotiations legal fees and other delays in bringing Sensenet to Harrison council approved $20,000 to be paid to Rogers – the village's designated service provider for the services needed to get Sensenet online Though council at the time said Wood's intentions were likely good management in the village stressed the need for clear communications between the village staff and elected officials.  Sensenet is one part of the village's preparation for high wildfire season the village conducted extensive fuel management near the village's water tower and along the Spirit Trail loop village crews cleared out additional fuel built up by the fire station and they cleared out "ladder fuels" in the area.  Wildfire activity near Harrison Hot Springs was relatively low last year but there is always potential for wildfires to grow to hundreds of hectares the Chehalis River wildfire burned for several weeks while there have been wildfires burning in the early days of May in B.C. the Agassiz-Harrison area has been free of wildfire activity as of publication Stay connected to The Observer for local wildfire updates as they happen.  Dialogue and debate are integral to a free society and we welcome and encourage you to share your views on the issues of the day. We ask that you be respectful of others and their points of view, refrain from personal attacks and stay on topic. To learn about our commenting policies and how our community-based moderation works, please read our Community Guidelines Get ready for a weekend of history and horsepower as the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales make their way to Hot Springs The majestic horses will be part of a series of events that promise fun (KATV) — Get ready for a weekend of history and horsepower as the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales make their way to Hot Springs "You're gonna expect a lot of fun and a lot of actually you'll gain a lot of knowledge about the Clydesdales as well," said an event organizer known for their role in Budweiser's history were originally bred to help move products for Anheuser-Busch over a century ago The festivities will kick off on Thursday at Hill Wheatley Plaza in historic downtown Hot Springs the Clydesdales will march through the streets delivering cases of beer to local bars and restaurants offering a throwback to their original purpose "They're going to deliver a couple cases of beer to some of the bars and restaurants that we have down there so we can kind of get an old school feel," said the organizer the Clydesdales will make an appearance at Oaklawn Racing and Gaming They will march up the Oaklawn home stretch track and into the infield where attendees can get up close for photos bring whoever you want to out and see these beautiful animals," the organizer encouraged The event is not just about beer; it's a family-friendly affair where visitors can learn about the history of the Clydesdales and enjoy the races beer drinking party or anything like that," the organizer clarified don your best Derby attire and head to Hot Springs for a weekend filled with tradition and excitement Video: Attorney for Hot Spring County Sheriff Scott Finkbeiner speaks after plea deal – The former sheriff of Hot Spring County has been arrested and jailed in Saline County on Friday Inmate records show Scott Finkbeiner is being held on behalf of the FBI The FBI confirmed that the former sheriff was arrested “on a court authorized document,” which was confirmed by the U.S Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Arkansas A spokesperson for that office confirmed that Finkbeiner is scheduled to appear in court at 10 a.m and would make no further statements on the matter Finkbeiner pleaded guilty in February to falsifying He resigned his position as sheriff the same day and is awaiting sentencing.  He had ceased all law enforcement duties as of December 2023 after federal and county charges were brought against him surrounding the FBI investigation by Marisa Sardonia Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina leaving behind a trail of unprecedented destruction that killed over 100 people in the state and left behind billions of dollars worth of damage after seven months of repairing and rebuilding two mountain towns are looking forward to a large-scale reopening MARSHALL BUSINESSES TO REOPEN AFTER RECOVERING FROM HURRICANE HELENE'S DEVASTATION Marshall and Hot Springs are welcoming residents and visitors to a variety of events BILTMORE VILLAGE BUSINESSES SET TO RETURN DESPITE ONGOING RECOVERY CHALLENGES More information can be found at this link (KATV) — A Hot Springs man is in custody after allegedly stealing a fire truck from the city's Central Fire Station and leading police on a high-speed chase Fire Chief Ed Davis said the incident happened Monday evening when a man entered the station through the garage doors and eventually climbed into one of the vehicles He obviously couldn't figure out how to start that it is kind of a complicated process actually," Davis said The man then moved to a smaller fire vehicle basically took it for a joyride through (North) Hot Springs and into Garland County," Davis said The man police say is responsible for the so-called joyride is 37-year-old Ernest Bodiford from Hot Springs Bodiford led authorities on a chase in the stolen truck reaching speeds of over 100 miles per hour with the emergency lights activated Bodiford now faces charges of theft of property KATV asked how someone was able to get in a truck that belonged to the fire department and drive off "The firefighters were not in the apparatus bay when they had the doors open They were upstairs doing kind of a get-to-know-you with some of the people that are potential new hires for the fire department," Davis said Davis said a firefighter should have been in the apparatus bay and changes have been made to prevent something like this from happening again "We are changing the rules up to where the apparatus bay doors stay shut instead of open during the daytime there has to be a firefighter in place out here in the apparatus bay," Davis said Davis said this won't prevent them from continuing to serve the community "There are bells on the outside of the station They can press those bells and the firefighters will come and help them or they can call 911; that is a sure way to get a firefighter to your scene," Davis said Davis expressed relief that no one was hurt during the chase and hopes the man responsible for the theft receives the help he needs The fire truck was returned without damage Bodiford's court date is set for June 3 — A former Garland County teacher and registered sex offender is back behind bars after authorities said they found evidence related to a past child pornography conviction Police said 52-year-old Zachary Nehus was arrested on April 29 for violating parole terms related to his 2016 conviction on 30 counts of felony child pornography charges John’s Catholic School and is the husband of Hot Springs School District Superintendent Stephanie Nehus The Garland County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that authorities discovered the new evidence at Nehus’ home on April 29 He is currently being held without bond in the Garland County Detention Center The news of his arrest has sparked frustration among parents in the district with some calling for Superintendent Stephanie Nehus to resign or be removed from her position “I love the school district,” Sara Jeffers a parent of a Hot Springs School District student “The opportunities my daughter gets are amazing Jeffers expressed anger that Zachary Nehus who authorities stated is a registered Level 2 sex offender, had previously been allowed on a school campus Level 2 offenders are allowed on school property where their child attends,” Jeffers said Jeffers said she and several other parents had already voiced concerns to Superintendent Nehus about their children’s safety she believes the school board should take action Superintendent Nehus addressed the arrest in an internal email Tuesday I would like to share some personal information with you My husband was arrested on a parole violation this afternoon I am not sure if or when it may hit the media My number one concern at this time is our children!” The Hot Springs School District declined to provide a formal statement but confirmed a special executive session of the school board is scheduled for 5 p.m but Jeffers said she plans to be outside to make her voice heard a former school teacher and the husband of the Hot Springs School District Superintendent has been arrested in Garland County for violating his parole stemming from a previous child pornography conviction was arrested at his home on Tuesday after investigators "discovered enough evidence of crimes related to the aforementioned offense to place Mr Nehus under arrest for violating the terms and conditions of his parole" according to the Garland County Sheriff's Office he was arrested in 2014 and originally charged with 30 counts related to child pornography but prosecutors agreed to withdraw 20 of the counts as part of a negotiated plea deal in Garland County Circuit Court the current Superintendent of Schools in Hot Springs Nehus has been with the district for 15 years Nehus said she had been transparent about her husband's "situation" since 2014 and maintained she was open to visiting with anyone who has concerns But she did refuse to discuss the matter with KATV on camera The Hot Springs School Board has scheduled a special meeting for Thursday night to discuss the matter Police say they have opened an investigation and will release more information as it becomes available Correction: An earlier version of this story identified Zachary Nehus as a Level 4 sex offender meaning he poses only a moderate risk of re-offense HOT SPRINGS -- A former elementary school teacher who is married to the Hot Springs School District's superintendent and was.. This document may not be reprinted without the express written permission of Northwest Arkansas Newspapers LLC Material from the Associated Press is Copyright © 2025 audio and/or video material shall not be published rewritten for broadcast or publication or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium Neither these AP materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and noncommercial use The AP will not be held liable for any delays errors or omissions therefrom or in the transmission or delivery of all or any part thereof or for any damages arising from any of the foregoing Fred Henderson doesn’t expect to live long enough to see the completion of Colorado’s first geothermal power plant the retired geologist is trying to keep his dream alive by proving he’s found a good place to put the facility.  I’d like to be around to see that happen,” Henderson said More than a decade of research has convinced Henderson he’s found a suitable location near Buena Vista It’s a lightly wooded hollow below a county road packed with yucca plants and sagebrush A barbed wire gate guards the parcel of state land Henderson and his business partner a company founded by the duo in 2007.The site sits a couple of miles from Mt the resort has drawn tourists to Chalk Creek Canyon a former mining district where mineral-rich water bubbles out of the granite at temperatures as high as 183 degrees Fahrenheit which could saddle households with higher energy bills to cover the cost.  The potential benefits have transformed Gov. Jared Polis into a leading geothermal energy advocate. In 2023, he launched the Heat Beneath Our Feet initiative to encourage geothermal development in Colorado and other parts of the western U.S The governor’s office has also established tax credits and grant programs for geothermal electricity production to support entrepreneurs and their investors.  hopes its plan will spark a new statewide industry The company won an initial state grant last year to drill research wells at the proposed site is conditional on the company earning state and local permits to dig roughly a mile below the proposed power plant site.   an opposition movement has gained traction as the proposal inches closer to reality A local group of residents warns the power plant could bring excessive lights noise and steam to the picturesque mountain valley Another contingent fears the plan could disrupt the area’s world-famous hot springs and its associated tourism industry The battle is now an early test for Colorado’s young geothermal industry If Held and Henderson can’t overcome their opponents it could send a message to potential investors: The state might want geothermal power plants but its residents don’t want them in their backyards.  Held and Henderson are far from the first entrepreneurs to imagine generating power from underground heat.  used steam escaping from geysers outside Tuscany to illuminate light bulbs in 1904 he developed the first commercially viable geothermal power plant in Larderello The city is now home to steam-powered facilities that feed energy across the country There’s now a rare bipartisan consensus around expanding the sector Former President Biden’s administration launched initiatives to cut the cost of geothermal energy production Since President Trump recaptured the White House Energy Secretary Chris Wright has thrown his support behind the industry noting that geothermal power could support data centers and help bring factories back to the U.S.  Wright also hasn’t shied away from the potential synergy between geothermal and fossil fuels Both could also benefit from the fracking technology he helped develop at the oil and gas company Liberty Energy some startups plan to use fracking to crack open dry then flood the fissures with water to harvest the underground heat.  The developments could help geothermal energy someday thrive far from volcanic areas and hot springs Princeton Geothermal plans to follow a more proven path by generating electricity from underground hot water.  Henderson started looking for a thermal reservoir long before the federal government took a new interest in geothermal energy.  Henderson spent decades prospecting minerals for private clients around the world she suggested he redirect his talents to tap some of the region’s famous geothermal energy for their own home “She wanted me to get off my duff and find her some hot water,” Henderson said.  said a similar impulse led to his interest in geothermal power The retired lawyer and investor had grown up in Chaffee County His family spent summers in a cabin above Chalk Creek and Held and his brother would often soak in warm rock-lined pockets below Mt he wondered why someone wasn’t putting the heat to use After returning to the region in the early 2000s rising oil prices led Held to consider harvesting underground heat for electricity instead His research put him in touch with a professor at the Colorado School of Mines they hoped to build a power plant closer to the hot springs but their initial exploratory drilling caught the attention of Chaffee County commissioners who placed a moratorium on any geothermal electricity development before approving rules to regulate the industry in 2013.   The setback scared off Canadian investors backing the original power plant proposal Held and Henderson began to consider whether it’d be better to place their proposed power plant further from the canyon It was an idea supported by an earlier attempt to harvest geothermal energy a company behind a molybdenum mine near Leadville drilled test wells near Buena Vista in the area to search for steam to generate electricity Held said the company dropped the idea due to regulatory pressure and dropping fossil fuel prices.  Henderson obtained the company’s data taken from exploratory wells the company drilled around Mt and a study partially based on the findings suggested the existence of a major geothermal aquifer deep in the valley below Chalk Creek Canyon.  Princeton Geothermal aims to confirm it could tap into the aquifer hidden deep below the surface A final power plant would pump water up through a heat exchanger then spin a turbine to generate electricity before injecting cooler water back underground “I’m betting 99 percent it’s going to be good hot water We think we have a drill site ready to prove it and that’s what we’re trying to do,” Henderson said.  Held and Henderson are also confident that their project would boost the local economy.  The duo estimates the facility could initially support a 10-megawatt facility capable of powering 6,000 to 8,000 homes Held said that’s enough to power the entire service territory covered by the Sangre de Cristo Electrical Association the local electricity cooperative for most of Chaffee County and other parts of central Colorado.  If another utility or technology company purchases the power instead he said the $40 million investment to build the power plant would still add around 15 full-time jobs and provide a major boost to property taxes to help fund schools and other local public services New public and private funding commitments are now pushing their plan closer to reality Princeton Geothermal was awarded $500,000 to drill the planned test wells through Colorado's Geothermal Energy Grant Program.  the company announced a prospective merger with Western Geothermal and Reykjavik Geothermal two firms working to export Iceland’s expertise in geothermal energy The island nation relies on geothermal facilities to generate a quarter of its electricity and 90 percent of households are heated through local networks built to deliver geothermal energy.Gudmundur Heidarsson an Icelandic-born entrepreneur behind Western Geothermal living in Evergreen said his firm aims to support a series of geothermal power plants across this state Princeton by offering an additional $500,000 to match the state grant to dig the research wells at the proposed site which he’s confident will prove the location sits atop a viable geothermal reservoir.  the concept could again run into trouble with local regulators “It’s easy from a geological perspective,” Heidarsson said “We have to have the community in agreement with what we’re doing.”  has lost patience with anyone unwilling to see the benefits of moving ahead a nearby subdivision hidden from view but home to many residents fighting the project.  a retired accountant living in Lost Creek Ranch welcomed a crowd gathered in an American Legion hall in Buena Vista Dozens of residents braved the weather to listen to a presentation about concerns over the proposed Mt Clark co-founded Save Our Arkansas Valley in 2024 to advocate against the project.He kicked off the meeting with a clarification: the group doesn’t oppose the concept of geothermal energy While it's clear the power plants could offer some benefits he said almost all of them were in far more remote places “What we are saying is that the location is stupid,” Clark said.The proposed site along County Road 321 borders a state wildlife area home to elk and pronghorn antelope herds One presenter raised concerns that drilling and construction could disrupt migration routes through the area Another opponent played a recording obtained by driving his motorcycle hundreds of miles to the Blue Mountain power plant in Nevada He warned that a similar high-decibel hum could someday disturb humans and animal residents living along the Arkansas River.  Princeton Geothermal insists its final design will address those concerns with sound buffers and steel casing to protect nearby water from contamination A system to cool geothermal water with air would also eliminate any risk of an unsightly steam plume Residents also noted examples of environmental mishaps linked to geothermal projects in other states and countries An attempt to draw energy from bedrock near Basel shut down in 2009 after a study linked it to a series of small earthquakes tested “enhanced geothermal,” which uses techniques similar to hydraulic fracturing known to increase the risk of small earthquakes in certain areas Henderson and Held have reiterated that their project only requires conventional drilling.  he revealed himself and took the microphone telling the crowd the discussion confused him because “it doesn’t necessarily tie into what we are doing.”The mood quickly turned sour Heidarsson asked if anyone had visited Iceland to see the full potential of geothermal energy Someone in the audience then shouted to ask if he’s a U.S He assured the crowd that the project would follow strict state and local regulations When asked why the power plant had to sit below Mt he said the location was simply the most thoroughly researched potential site in Colorado.  But those points failed to calm the fury rising from the audience an attendee approached Heidarsson to deliver a parting tirade “Go back to Iceland and stay there,” he said Heisarsson grabbed his jacket and left for his car The tenor of the conversation surprised Syd Schieren and Erin Oliver a pair of long-time Chaffee County residents living just above Mt Princeton Hot Springs Resort along Chalk Creek.  The couple attended the meeting due to their concerns about the power plant they’ve relied on a geothermal hot spring to heat their home and feed tubs outside a set of three rentable vacation spots on their property The hot water also maintains a year-round temperate climate inside a greenhouse roughly the size of two tennis courts.  Oliver operated a commercial growing operation out of the facility mostly selling salad greens to local restaurants Since winding down the business a few years ago she has filled the space with a riot of cut flowers banana trees and her favorite tomato and pepper varieties.  If a power plant taps the same hot water source and re-injects colder water underground Schieren fears it could cut the temperature of the underlying aquifer potentially affecting their tourism business and other historic hot springs along Chalk Creek.  “The geology here is just really complex with this fractured granite It’s really difficult to map how the water moves through the whole area,” Schieren said.  the company hired a hydrologist to model how the power plant could impact hot spring resources in Chalk Creek The analysis shared with CPR News found the project might reshape underground forces pushing water to the surface the power plant could reduce the amount of spring water flowing into Chalk Creek and the Arkansas River raising questions about whether the project could run afoul of Colorado’s strict water rights protections Other hot springs operators have squared off with geothermal energy developers around the world. In Japan, similar fights have impeded attempts to exploit the nation’s ample underground heat geothermal projects diminished historic geysers and hot springs before a preservation project began in the 1980s Colorado’s hot springs industry is determined to avoid the same fate. During the current legislative session, operators like Warren opposed a bill to streamline the state permitting process for geothermal drilling projects. That led lawmakers to add specific amendments to protect historic hot springs across the state.  insists Colorado’s strict regulations will safeguard nearby hot springs The company plans to hire an engineering firm to complete its own hydrology report which it will submit to the Energy and Carbon Management Commission a panel that’s traditionally overseen Colorado’s oil and gas industry.  The company must gain a series of approvals to begin drilling its research wells including permission from the Chaffee County planning board If the company finds a viable geothermal reservoir it then must survive a separate state and local permitting gauntlet before building the power plant It’s a tough road with multiple opportunities for public comment Princeton Geothermal can win over regulators and begin drilling its research wells by the end of the year.  That’s the moment Henderson hopes to experience before he dies he said his job has always been to find the raw materials necessary to keep the modern world running long into the future Evidence of abundant geothermal energy below Mt Editor's note: This story has been corrected to reflect which county road the proposed site is near Colorado Postcards are snapshots of our colorful state in sound. They give brief insights into our people and places, our flora and fauna, and our past and present, from every corner of Colorado. Listen now. © 2025 Colorado Public Radio. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy HOT SPRINGS - Dave's 209 owner Dave Thomas has seen a lot of change in Spring Creek since he opened the popular restaurant in 2015 As the eatery looks ahead to its 10-year anniversary in June Thomas reflected on the growth of Spring Creek and what the community has meant to him and his restaurant located in the old school building connected to the community center but when you think of some of the other challenges that we've gone through it makes it even more of an accomplishment," Thomas said when it's really slow and we're not getting all the tourists that we rely on the community really makes an effort and coming in more often and supporting us." Dave's 209 pays homage to motorcycle culture with motorcycle memorabilia lining the walls including movie posters and T-shirts celebrating motorcycle culture The restaurant sits on the nearly 100-mile-long stretch known colloquially among motorcyclists as "The Rattler." The restaurant's sign celebrates the landmark and its roughly 290 twists turns and curves running from Hot Springs to Lake Junaluska While Thomas himself enjoys getting out on his bike — he's a Harley Davidson fan — when the restaurant is in its summer season he rarely has time to do much else other than work Thomas has been in the restaurant industry for more than 30 years I consider myself a restaurant person," he said When it is balls to the wall and you're just holding on there's that level of accomplishment where you realize The restaurant attracts many visitors from around the world Thomas recalled a visiting couple who stopped in during a trip to Hot Springs Resort and Spa to celebrate their anniversary "They came back the next year on their anniversary 'We don't go to a lot of restaurants where people will talk to us like we're locals.' You want to feel like you're being taken care of." That community cohesion and family-like atmosphere is a crucial component to what makes the restaurant so meaningful for people the Dave's 209 owner said being in such tight-knit community as Spring Creek has made the 10-year anniversary that much sweeter "I had never experienced a community that actually would embrace my business as much as I feel their love and support," Thomas said they have shown me nothing but love and been welcoming To now be in a position where I've watched these kids grow I've watched them turn into young men and women Thomas said he feels like "a steward" of the historic building "This old schoolhouse is known as being the heart of the community," the owner said "I've also tried to get people to go and see it and share the love and passion that I know everybody here has for the building." The owner makes sure to spotlight the ample local talent The artwork on the wall is by a 16-year-old girl up here One of my other staff does the crochet stuff on the other side," Thomas said adding that the local section even includes a book he had published which he wrote while in high school Honoring family heritage and local customs and traditions has always been a crucial component in both the restaurant and the community center building's history Thomas reflected on the time when the staff had a refrigerator delivered from Asheville and two teenagers made the delivery one of the youths discovered his grandmother in one of the photos lining the building's walls 'All I knew was that she went to school in Madison County.' He didn't know that it was Spring Creek," Thomas remembered "He just happened to be in this building delivering on that day Imagine that feeling of looking at that picture and saying 'That's my family member,' and then realizing 'It was here (where she went to school).'" Thomas said honoring the community and building's history has served him well also "I've really just tried to take care of the people out here and show them love we're reaping the reward of being able to make it this far." It would be hard to imagine the next 10 years presenting as many challenges as the first 10 years Thomas said he'll keep applying the same values of celebrating community and promoting inclusion More: Feed and seed store proposed for Spring Creek community. What are the obstacles? More: Spring Creek Car Show and Pie Contest a 'callback to a simpler time' More: With 12 spaces gone in downtown, Hot Springs group to pave public parking lot More: Rebuild Hot Springs Area nonprofit forms to help businesses, residents, town rebuild in a community where people have such deep history and are so intertwined throughout Western North Carolina Dave's 209 brings people closer together in a consolidated space "It also has a way of just tying the community tighter together some larger than ours and some smaller than ours to have a place to be welcome no matter what their beliefs "They can just come here and have a great time and have a great experience." Johnny Casey is the Madison County communities reporter for The Citizen Times and The News-Record & Sentinel He can be reached at 828-210-6074 or jcasey@citizentimes.com This story is part of production for a new episode of Colorado Experience focused on hot springs in the state.  Pagosa Springs, home to the deepest hot spring in the world has used its hot springs in this way since the early 1980s “The main driver behind it was a result of the oil embargo in the '70s,” said Karl Johnson “It was the first push in the United States A bipartisan bill awaiting Gov. Jared Polis’ signature paves the way for the future of geothermal use in the state. House Bill 25-1165 is part of the state’s efforts to reach 100% renewable energy use by 2040 The bill focuses on geothermal energy production and carbon sequestration, two technologies with the potential to combat climate change. Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing carbon dioxide in the air and storing it uses underground heat to generate electricity co-sponsored the bill with three lawmakers from both sides of the aisle Simpson represents 14 counties in southwest Colorado many of which are hotbeds for geothermal activity “It seems like the state and even the western U.S is ripe for this kind of conversation and potential development of geothermal,” said Simpson Geothermal energy is essentially limitless The Earth’s core continuously generates and radiates heat outwards The rate at which temperatures underground rise can vary based on the geologic activity in the area In places like the Rocky Mountains of Colorado the temperatures underground increase at a quicker rate meaning developers don’t have to dig as deep to reach at least 360 degrees Fahrenheit needed to produce electricity But today geothermal has a very small portfolio,” said Shemin Ge The excitement and investment in geothermal energy in Colorado picked up over the past few years. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, a Democrat, launched the "Heat Beneath Our Feet" initiative in 2022 to examine opportunities and barriers to development of geothermal energy technologies The state awarded grants to 30 geothermal projects around the state including Pagosa Springs’ heating district With a combined $300,000 from the grant and the town matching funds this money will replace old and worn-out pieces of the system Part of the challenge for geothermal systems is wear and tear on the infrastructure from the minerals found in the water “The components that are in the water — the minerals — depending on what mineral it is you can clog your fittings and the piping system Some of those minerals are very corrosive depending on the component.” The initial cost of installing a geothermal system is also a potential barrier If a new customer wanted to tie into the Pagosa system If a homeowner wanted to install their own heat exchanger Johnson pointed out that their current heating grid customers are saving about 30% compared to people who rely on natural gas it was for a way to help disadvantaged community members be able to heat their house,” said Johnson The heating system in Pagosa Springs is limited in how many people can hook up to the grid The water flow rate and the 145 degree temperature at which the water comes out of the ground restricts the current system’s abilities and Johnson said it could potentially handle up to 40 customers The city stress tested the aquifer to determine the true limitations of the system The test involved letting the water flow uninhibited at multiple wells “If you're going to take more than what nature will give you The presence of artesian water pressure helps make things easier for the heating system in Pagosa Springs This means the water reaches the surface with a natural pressure as opposed to having to pump the water to the surface It's something that we need to take care of,” said Marsha Preuit former owner of Healing Waters Resort and Spa Her family has owned the resort and spa since the 1950s Preuit took ownership in 1982 and later passed the ownership to her daughter All resorts in town pull from one big aquifer but have separate wells where the water comes up Having lived in Pagosa Springs for 75 years Preuit hopes people understand overuse could jeopardize the hot springs While the 145-degree water is enough to heat Pagosa Springs’ system developing a geothermal power plant requires more heat to generate the electricity on a larger scale geothermal plants could use previously drilled locations from old oil and gas operations this would involve drilling into the ground to get to the required temperatures and having to inject a fluid in order to extract the heat And the words “drilling” and "injection” will make any hot springs owner’s ears perk up with concern “One of the challenges that we also face in our industry is understanding how to best protect our source. So that can come from a water rights issue, from understanding our subsurface,” said Jessica Meath, the executive director of the Hot Springs Association Pagosa Springs is known for having the deepest hot springs in the world at more than 1,002 feet deep But it is not known how truly deep that spring goes That 1,000-foot mark was just the end of the measuring instrument geologists have developed ways to track underground activity Development has impacted Colorado’s mineral springs, hot springs, and even geothermal caves in the past. In Steamboat Springs, railroad construction in the early 20th century and expansion of Highway 40 in the 1980s changed or killed springs in town Colorado is not alone. New Zealand experienced a boom in geothermal energy production in the 1950s and 60s, and now at least 100 geysers have gone extinct from it “Geothermal energy exploration may impact hot springs and I think geothermal energy is also a good thing.” This bill making its way through the Colorado legislature aims to address concerns from hot springs owners It requires notification to prior geothermal operators about new well applications within a quarter mile of an existing well It also clarifies management and definitions between Division of Water Resources and the Energy and Carbon Management Commission to streamline the process “I think that's a really good step forward,” said Meath “I think it will really also help better define the risk management that then aligns with some of these policies and permitting requirements.” For Meath and other Hot Springs Association members, geothermal energy development will be part of their upcoming conference in Glenwood Springs While most hot springs owners will prioritize the use of geothermal for their pools and spas new technology has the potential for hot springs owners to use their wells for energy production “I think if we just balance applications with information — known information — there could be some really cool cool things that we see being integrated in the future,” said Meath hot spring owners brought many concerns to the House Committee on Energy & Environment during the public comment period Most of the concerns centered on protecting existing hot springs given their long history and the economic benefits the surrounding communities experience “You can't really go out on a limb and say it with absolute 100% confidence you can do this without injuring the water right,” said Simpson “The intention is to make sure that we're taking all the steps that those existing operations are not impacted at all.” Simpson is especially sympathetic when it comes to protecting water rights He is a fourth-generation farmer and rancher in the San Luis Valley with his own water rights He is also the general manager of the Rio Grande Water Conservation District “I rely on snowpack in the San Juan Mountains and a healthier aquifer system and a viable stream flow in the Rio Grande,” said Simpson Farming and ranching in the San Luis Valley has also given Simpson firsthand experience of climate change. Following the worst drought in recorded history in 2002 Simpson said they’ve had to change how they farm and survive in that valley our aquifers are in decline,” said Simpson I would think that burning less carbon-based fuels has to produce better outcomes I would like to see us be a lot more thoughtful in how we do that.” Geothermal energy production could be one of those ways that helps our global climate that development is getting easier as the bill passed the legislature and waits for the governor’s signature “Governor Polis is committed to delivering lower-cost clean energy for Coloradans and this legislation will help us do that and reach our climate goals,” said a spokesperson for the governor Get top headlines and KUNC reporting directly to your mailbox each week when you subscribe to In The NOCO The FBI on Friday arrested a former Hot Spring County sheriff who was forced to resign earlier this year Support journalism that digs deeper into topics that matter most to Arkansans. Donate today to preserve the quality and integrity of local journalism. policing and breaking news for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette his articles focus primarily on crime and law enforcement efforts in Pulaski County although he reports on other parts of the state as well This document may not be reprinted without the express written permission of Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Castle Hot Springs is in Arizona's Sonoran Desert Snow and Mountain Lifestyle news and entertainment Montana — If you’ve ever wanted to run a hot springs and also live near a ski area Priced at 5.75 million, Lost Trail Hot Springs Resort is a historic gem The history of the hot springs date back to 1892 the current owners are insistent that they have no plans to close the resort “We don’t plan on closing,” said Stann Honey to the Ravalli Republic. “Here’s where we’re at; if it sells The main building features a restaurant with a bar The pool features temperatures from 95° to 103 and 105° There’s also a hotel building with eight units It’s a tourist attraction during all four seasons, as it’s located next to Bitterroot National Forest. For skiers, the good news is that it’s situated close by to the Lost Trail Ski Area As is commonplace with an investment like this the air quality factor is ranked as extreme I imagine figuring out property insurance here must be a joy The overhead tarp that’s used in the wintertime at the hot spring pool is pretty ugly so I wonder if you could try to do something creative but it does need some renovations and new appliances it’s a great setup with character that you don’t see much of anymore You can view the listing here Image Credits: PureWest Real Estate – Missoula, Lost Trail Ski Area Get the latest snow and mountain lifestyle news and entertainment delivered to your inbox. ian@unofficialnetworks.com Born and raised in New Hampshire, Ian Wood became passionate about the ski industry while learning to ski at Mt. Sunapee. In high school, he became a ski patroller at Proctor Ski Area. He travelled out... Letter to the Sonoma Valley Unified School District’s board of trustees on the proposed relocation of Flowery Elementary School A letter to the Sonoma Valley Unified School District board of trustees Before I offer my thoughts about the potential relocation of Flowery School I want to share the background behind my viewpoint I worked for Creative Publications traveling up and down the West Coast providing math professional development to elementary teachers I substitute taught in Sonoma to help me decide where to send my 4-year-old son to kindergarten Although the dual immersion program was very new there There were two dual immersion kindergarten classes and two first grades and a strong feeling of community I felt compelled to get more information about the program and talked with multiple people I enrolled my son followed by my daughter two years later My institutional knowledge of Flowery started with that initial research followed by my experience as a parent volunteer co-founding the Dual Immersion Advocates parent group working as a district math consultant beginning in 2002 co-writing the Foreign Language Assistance Progra (FLAP) grant with Principal Joyce Schipper in 2006 and working as dual immersion coordinator in 2007 until taking on my present role as Flowery academic specialist To provide effective leadership of Flowery you need to know how the dual immersion program started Flowery school was impacted by what some referred to as “white flight” due to families switching to charter Flowery personnel knew they had two critical elements in their favor for launching a dual immersion program They had a population of Spanish language role models who would greatly benefit from dual immersion as well as the perfect location to serve those families The decision to launch dual immersion at Flowery in the late 1990s may have been the best strategic move ever made in Sonoma Valley Unified School District Flowery is the only school not experiencing declining enrollment the program has produced multiple bilingual educators including eight who currently work for the district instead of celebrating the success of Flowery you’re proposing to spend money that doesn’t need to be spent to fix something that’s not broken You want to move a school away from the people who need it most ∎ How much will it cost to bus Springs students to a school in town ∎ Will the district transport parents to Back to School Night ∎ Will it provide transportation for parents who want to volunteer in their students’ classes ∎ How much money will it cost to clean out the closed school and move the entire contents of Flowery ∎ Is the district equipped to provide a smooth transition for students of the closed school simultaneously with relocating 365 Flowery students ∎ How much money do you expect to save by moving Flowery ∎ Will you allow a neighborhood student of the closed school to enroll at Flowery (in its new location) even if that student has no Spanish literacy skills ∎ Have you considered the impact to the organizations and businesses that are aligned with Flowery ∎ What do you expect to gain by relocating Flowery ∎ What are you prepared to sacrifice by moving Flowery You’ve already chosen to increase the load on elementary principals by eliminating their academic specialists Who’s going to lead the recruitment efforts to attract native Spanish speaking students to replace those lost due to moving Flowery it won’t be me since my job was cut and I’ll most likely be placed at another school Will this task be given to Flowery’s Principal I anticipate many Springs families will make the difficult decision to withdraw from dual immersion and look into enrolling at more geographically convenient schools such as El Verano or Sonoma Charter district mismanagement of Flowery could be the best thing that ever happens to Sonoma Charter School Have you gone to Flowery to gather feedback from parents and staff members regarding the potential relocation Flowery has long valued its proximity to ArtEscape Larson Park and local businesses that donate to school events Have you provided a way for them to share their opinions and concerns Flowery has celebrated its seniors at an annual "Senior Recognition Event.” The 2025 Seniors came to Flowery on April 18 Some of them commented that it was like coming home How do you think the seniors from 2027-2033 will feel about visiting their elementary school in a facility that holds no memories for them I plan to attend the May 8 board meeting either in person or virtually I look forward to hearing whether or not you can justify relocating Flowery I urge you to resist depriving Springs families of their school Justine Montano is an academic specialist at Flowery Elementary School.