Tuesday, July 26, 2011

The Thinkers: Kids’ Concert















The Thinkers: Kids’ Concert
August 8, noon–1 p.m.
A.C. Gilbert’s Discovery Village welcomes a new children’s music group, The Thinkers. A self-described “friendship band” with musicians Bo, Moy and more, The Thinkers will perform at the foot of the world’s largest Erector Set Tower on August 8 at noon.

This energetic band is on a nationwide tour performing their debut album entitled, “Oh Zoooty!” They describe their music as a “celebration of past and future music, tradition and inspiration – fresh folk.” The songs are upbeat and rhythmical with fun, easy chorus lines for interactive sing-a-longs. Kids of all ages are tuning in and turning on to The Thinkers— a multimedia pop adventure for all ages.



With songs such as “Froggy Hop” and “Mushy Berry Pie,” The Thinkers will enliven the stage at the children’s museum with summertime tunes that are fresh and engaging. Bring your friends and family for a delightful afternoon of fresh, upbeat music that kids of all ages will enjoy. Sometimes the Thinkers rock, and sometimes they read. Come discover what Oh Zoooty! is all about. For a sample of their delightful tunes go to: http://www.thinkersmusic.com/.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

The museum starts a new fiscal year with new leadership


A change in leadership for the museum’s Board of Directors has recently taken place at the start of the new fiscal year on July 1, 2011.

“It’s great to see the stability of the organization reflected through the Board and Executive Committee. We’re developing new leaders on the Board while current executive committee members renew their commitment, perhaps in a different role,” states Pamela Vorachek, Executive Director.

Amy East, a former lawyer and current stay-at-home mom will replace Shannon Martinez as Board President. East served as Vice President on the board last year. Martinez is stepping down after providing excellent leadership for close to two years. Martinez, a partner at Saalfeld Griggs, PC, will remain on the board as Past President.

Alongside President, Amy East will be Sue Yesilada, of Waddell & Reed, Inc. Yesilada was Secretary and will now serve as Vice President. As an active member of the community Yesilada is also involved in Rotary.

Karma Krause, who works with the Salem-Keizer School District, will be Secretary for the Board. With a background in non-profit membership and marketing she has extensive experience working with the Salem community.

Jerry Purtell, a long-time Salem area CPA, will continue in the role of Treasurer. As a member of the Executive Committee, Purtell brings consistency and years of experience in financial reporting.

The current board has just finished the museum’s strategic plan and changes have been seamless. “The museum is in a great position to extend our reach to more families in the region. I enjoy working with our Board of Directors and appreciate their dedication to the organization,” says Vorachek.

Board members are eager to assist in the cultivation of new programs and to ensure the museum remains financially viable. As board members they participate in strategic planning, fundraising and policy-making for the nonprofit children’s museum.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Museum Staff Learn Their ABCs

Sixteen staff members at A.C. Gilbert's Discovery Village got back to basics and renewed their first aid and CPR training recently. Under the guidance of trainer Rachel Kofoid of ABC Lifeline, staff were reminded of the importance of ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) during hands-on practice at the museum.

What would you do? Here’s a quick, visual CPR review.

· STANDARD CPR FOR ADULTS - CPR in three simple steps
· CPR FOR CHILDREN - CPR in three steps for small children
· CPR FOR INFANTS - CPR for infants in five simple steps
· CPR FOR CATS & DOGS - CPR instructions for your family pet















Airway, Breathing, Circulation: 30 chest compressions and 2 breaths












Stabilize the head: do not move an injured person.
















Apply steady pressure to a bleeding wound.

















If someone is choking, use the Heimlich Manuever.