Pre-School Tour Permission Slip: Fill & Download for Free

We lived from 1990 to 2000 in the private community of Spring Valley Lake, next to Victorville, California. The community was adjacent to the Mojave River which, draining from the Lake Arrowhead area, has a surprising amount of water - just all underneath the sand. The community was not gated, but was private, meaning we had to pay for our own road repair, the pumps that continually filled the lake which then drained back into the riverbed, the upkeep on community property such as fishing areas, stocking of the lake with fish, local community parks, a community center, as well as security guards. When someone asks why you would have an HOA - that’s why. At one time a friend visited us, and recognizing we must have an HOA asked what we paid. When I told her our payment was $278, she said “Yeah, i figured it would be kinda steep. My condo HOA’s are only a $100 a month.” I said “A MONTH???? Holy Crap! We pay $278 per YEAR” What she was getting for her $1200 a year that so greatly exceeded our $278 I never did figure out.But, as much as we got for so little, the Homeowners association also had their drawbacks. My boys were pre-high school at the time, and wanted a basketball hoop. Throughout the community there were “movable” basketball hoops, often in cul-de-sacs or beside driveways or in driveways although they weren’t supposed to be in the streets. Likewise there were multiple permanent poles that people had put up in their yard, using the house as the backstop if a shot was missed. My home had a big picture window next to the front walkway, so not a good idea to put one there. Likewise above the two car garage was a large family/bonus room with windows, that would have been right behind the hoop and backstop - also not such a good idea, to say nothing about making it impossible to put cars in the garage. But, next to me was a vacant, undeveloped lot, it had been there since the community was started. If I put a basketball backboard where the boys could use the driveway and shoot - then the missed shots would merely go into a vacant lot. At least it was vacant now, but admittedly someday someone might buy and build there, at which time that wouldn’t be a nice neighborly thing and I’d have to take it down.But also, that side of the house was the wide property setback and the only location where i could store the boat. I couldn’t put a pole up permanently or I couldn’t get the boat in or out, and I didn’t want a rolling “portable” backstop. I found a basketball pole and backstop, and then came up with a steel sleeve that was just slightly larger than the pole. I cut the concrete, put in the sleeve, and I slipped the pole down into the sleeve. Whenever I needed to put the boat into the back yard, I just wrapped my arms around the pole and lifted it up. (The instructions said you were supposed to fill the pole with concrete, but if I’d done that, I would have never been able to move it.It was in for about a year, when I got the “Violation” notice from the homeowners association. They wanted to fine me something like $500 for putting in something that wasn’t allowed. They said if I wanted, with their permission, i could put a pole in front of the garage but where I had put it, a missed shot might hit my neighbors “house”. They said that I could apply for a variance, that perhaps they would allow it temporarily, and when I asked how I could find out they said I had to file a $100 “architectural fee”, and get a hearing.I paid the fee, they scheduled me for a hearing, and I went to talk to them. I toured the community and took approximately 100 photos of others who had done the same thing, or put portables in the street, etc,; however they weren’t interested in what “others” were doing, just that they were enforcing it against me. They said there was no way that they would allow a permanent installation, that it had to be portable, and I told them that it WAS portable. They said, no, it was permanent as it was in concrete, and I again told them that it was NOT permanent, it was sleeved, and moving took longer to get the cars out of the way than it did to lift it out and set it aside. Once I told them this, they then said that it wasn’t covered by any regulation, and asked why I had brought this to the architectural committee. I told them that I hadn’t, THEY had brought me to them. They said that was wrong, that they were wrong, since it was removable it didn’t come under the rules,. So, I asked for my $100 fee back. Their attitude was that ANY fee was non-refundable, whether filed in error or not, and refused. It wasn’t worth fighting, they kept my $100.

Dian Fossey’s Early Days from her biography“Dian Fossey was born in San Francisco, Calif., in 1932. Her parents divorced when she was young, so Dian grew up with her mother and stepfather. By all accounts, she was an excellent student and was extremely interested in animals from a very young age. At age 6, she began horseback riding lessons and in high school earned a letter on the riding team.When Dian enrolled in college courses at Marin Junior College, she chose to focus on business, following the encouragement of her stepfather, a wealthy businessman. She worked while in school, and at age 19, on the summer break following her freshman year of college, she went to work on a ranch in Montana. At the ranch, she fell in love with and developed an attachment to the animals, but she was forced to leave early when she contracted chickenpox.Even so, the experience convinced Dian to follow her heart and return to school as a pre-veterinary student at the University of California. She found some of the chemistry and physics courses quite challenging, and ultimately, she turned her focus to a degree in occupational therapy at San Jose State College, from which she graduated in 1954.Following graduation, Dian interned at various hospitals in California, working with tuberculosis patients. After less than a year she moved to Louisville, Ky., where she was hired as director of the occupational therapy department at Kosair Crippled Children Hospital. She enjoyed working with the people of Kentucky and lived outside the city limits in a cottage on a farm where the owners encouraged her to help work with the animals.Dian enjoyed her experience on the farm, but she dreamed of seeing more of the world and its abundant wildlife. A friend traveled to Africa and brought home pictures and stories of her exciting vacation. Once Dian saw the photos and heard the stories, she decided that she must travel there herself.She spent many years longing to visit Africa and realized that if her dream were to be realized, she would have to take matters into her own hands. Therefore, in 1963, Dian took out a bank loan and began planning her first trip to Africa. She hired a driver by mail and prepared to set off to the land of her dreams.Dian Fossey Tours Africa (1963)It took Dian Fossey’s entire life savings, in addition to a bank loan, to make her dream a reality. In September 1963, she arrived in Kenya. Her trip included visits to Kenya, Tanzania (then Tanganyika), Congo (then Zaire), and Zimbabwe (then Rhodesia). John Alexander, a British hunter, served as her guide. The route he planned included Tsavo, Africa’s largest national park; the saline lake of Manyara, famous for attracting giant flocks of flamingos; and the Ngorongoro Crater, well-known for its abundant wildlife.The final two sites on her tour were Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania — the archaeological site of Louis and Mary Leakey — and Mt. Mikeno in Congo, wherein 1959 American zoologist Dr. George Schaller carried out a pioneering study of the mountain gorilla. Schaller was the first person to conduct a reliable field study of the mountain gorillas, and his efforts paved the way for the research that would become Dian Fossey’s life work.A Turning Point: Dian Fossey Visits Dr. Louis Leakey“I believe it was at this time the seed was planted in my head, even if unconsciously, that I would someday return to Africa to study the gorillas of the mountains.” — “Gorillas in the Mist”Visiting with Dr. Louis Leakey at Olduvai Gorge was an experience that Dian would later point to as a pivotal moment in her life. During their visit, Leakey talked to Dian about Jane Goodall’s work with chimpanzees in Tanzania, which at the time was only in its third year. He also shared with her his belief in the importance of long-term field studies with the great apes.Leakey gave Dian permission to have a look around some newly excavated sites while she was at Olduvai. Unfortunately, in her excitement, she slipped down a steep slope, fell onto a recently excavated dig, and broke her ankle. The impending climb that would take Dian to the mountain gorillas was at risk, but she would not be discouraged so easily. By her own account, after her fall, she was more resolved than ever to get to the gorillas”.“On Oct. 16, Dian visited the Travellers Rest, a small hotel in Uganda, close to the Virunga Mountains and their mountain gorillas. The hotel was owned by Walter Baumgartel, an advocate for gorilla conservation and among the first to see the benefits that tourism could bring to the area.Baumgartel recommended that Dian meets with Joan and Alan Root, wildlife photographers from Kenya, who were collecting footage of the mountain gorillas for a photographic documentary. The Roots allowed Dian to camp behind their cabin and, after a few days, took her into the forest to search for gorillas. When they did come upon a group of gorillas and Dian was able to observe and photograph them, she developed a firm resolve to come back and study these beautiful creatures, As she describes in “Gorillas in the Mist”:“It was their individuality combined with the shyness of their behavior that remained the most captivating impression of this first encounter with the greatest of the great apes. I left Kabara with reluctance but with never a doubt that I would, somehow, return to learn more about the gorillas of the misted mountains.”Following her visit to the Virungas, Dian remained in Africa a while longer, staying with friends in Rhodesia. Upon arriving home in Kentucky, she resumed her work at Kosair Children’s Hospital, in order to repay the loan she had taken out for her trip to Africa – all the while dreaming of the day she would return.” This was found on the Dian Fossey Biography website and it’ length precludes me from adding more. I hope this helps you out.

THE LAND OF THUNDER DRAGON – BHUTANBhutan is a small, landlocked nation in Asia, located in eastern Himalayan Mountains, south of China, bordering the Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh. It looks like a child peacefully sleeping on the lap of mother Himalaya. The landscape is mostly mountainous with some fertile valleys and savannah. It has a strong ancient Buddhist culture. Bhutan is blessed with a very unique and rich heritage and culture that will mesmerize anyone visiting it.The country’s natural ecosystem is one of the most intact ecosystems of the world because of the choice to remain untouched from the rest of the world for decades. In 1998, it was named in the top 10 biodiversity hot spots of the world.Bhutan is still in a monarchy but it is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary form of government. The reigning monarch is Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King) is the head of the state.Earlier Bhutan was not a nation which was open about itself to the world and the outsiders but in 1991, the Royal Government of Bhutan privatized tourism. Although it is restricted like travel is only possible in some of the pre-arranged package or guided tour. Even after the restrictions, we can still enjoy its beauty and can be amazed by its culture and tradition which is unique in its own way.HERE IS THE LIST OF TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT WHILE TOURING BHUTANTHIMPUThe capital of Bhutan, Thimpu will be the first preference to visit. You can see a unique blend of modernity and antiquity showing a new world to unfold your curiosity. You will be stepped away from the typical tourist experience and be part of something wholly unique. It is the place where you can’t find a traffic signal anywhere. For the rescue of that, police beckoning and waving traffic along can be seen on the roads. Stately monks draped in blood-red robes weaving in and out magnificent monasteries are also commonplace in this spiritual city and a trip to see the Tashichho Dzong (fortress of Glorious Religion) is an absolute must. Travelers arriving in Thimpu are sure to be pleasantly surprisingly regions natural beauty as well as by the range of amenities available such as cafes, bars, and nightclubs, all of which are transforming the international view of mysterious Bhutan. With so much an offer, it is hard to not to fall in love with this intriguing city.PUNAKHAPunakha fortress (dzong), is located in this place which is stands high between the Mo Chhu and Pho chhu rivers. It was earlier the capital of Bhutan but then it changed to Thimpu. This fortress is one of the most beautiful things in this country. It has slided roofs with unique patterns. The walls are huge and whitewashed. The sound effect of rivers when we walk through the hollow halls of the fortress makes the atmosphere calm and satisfying. Not mentioning “The Khamsum Yuley Temple”, when talking about Punakha will be injustice because it is a must “to-see” spot to visit because it has the huge collection of antique paintings which reveals about the county’s culture in such a beautiful way that any art and history lover will be mind- blown. Punakha is an adventurous destination for the people who love tracking because it is surrounded by rough green mountains. The climate of this region is yearlong with average cold breeze soothing our bodies and minds.TRONGSAIt is located in the heart of Bhutan. It has the most breathe taking view that offers sightseeing of the gorge and black mountains. It is famed for imposing Dzong in the town. The name translates to “new village” in Dzonkha language. It is also known as the most spectacular location in the country. It is positioned right above the Mangde River. The buildings are connected with the corridors to make a maze. The steps are made up of stones and it has paved country -yards.MANAS NATIONAL PARKThe beautiful heritage enriched national park is located in the southern-most-centre of Bhutan. It is said to be the country’s crown jewel. It was not opened for the public a few years back, but now locals and tourists can explore this with the permission of the government. It can be said that it is the oldest protected area and forms a part of the transnational conservational zone. It separates the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park in the north and world heritage-listed Manas Tiger Reserve in India. It is the home for the largest tropical and subtropical ecosystem in Bhutan. It preserves the highly endangered Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, and greater one-horned Rhino. Many species of birds that can be counted up to 426 and it contains over 900 flora. The parks are most biologically outstanding in the world. Tourism in this park can be done by walking on foots, by car or by boat or even the park’s eco trails, as they try to spot one of its rare inhabitants.GASAThis is the district of Bhutan which is located in its northernmost part. It strikes its beauty to anyone visiting here and reserves an unforgettable memory of the elevations ranging from 1,500 to 4,500 meters. Built back in 1646, the Dzong defended Bhutan from several invasions in the 17thcentury and 18thcenturies. Even though being the most notable feature in this area, the people living here are the most who catch the eye of the tourist. They can be called the reason because of whom the culture of the country is still dominant out here. The main source of income comes from yaks, as they trade cheese, butter, meat or products made from their hair. Here tracking is also very famous. It is one of the most demanding treks in the Himalayas, and its healing hot springs. The newly established Royal Highlander festival is becoming increasingly popular. It is the must-see for passing travelers.BUMTHANGIt is also known as the ‘spiritual heartland of Bhutan’. Bumthang boats are some of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. It is encapted by four directions by four mountain valleys of Tang, Ura, Chhume, and Chokhor with later being the most well-known as it holds some of the most well-known as it holds some of the most important temples and dzongs. It is the place where Buddhism was first introduced to Bhutan. It is also the birthplace of Saint Pema Lingpa, to whom the Bhutanese royalty trace their descent. The wool products are also very famous here. The colourful wools that are produced here are famous all around the world which is also known as yathra. And like every other location mentioned here, it also has a breath-taking view of mountains and greenery. Paddling is the most well -known activity that is done by the tourist so that that can enjoy the beautiful view and connect with nature more closely. The mixture of meadows forests, villages and sacred sites provide a picturesque showcase of Bhutan’s rural scenery.GANGTEY VALLEYOh well, it can be also termed as the most beautiful destination in Bhutan, the Gangtey Valley is also known as Pobjika Valley. It is a Glacial Valley is surrounded by beautiful black mountains. It has the rarest and endangered black-necked cranes that arrive in the winters from Tibetan Plateau that’s why it is the most important conservation zones in the country. Goemba Monastery is also a reason that it is counted as few of the most tourist-friendly places. It was built back in the early 17thcentury. It is even the holiest Buddhist and also holds the proud position overlooking the rest of the valley. As it was built a long ago, it was renovated in 2008. This has the residential facility for the monks, an outlining meditation center and it also has guest houses. People can come here and experience what true meditation is and by this, they can reconnect with their souls and find peace in their mind. Here they can also go for walking and exploring the mountainsides by trekking. By coming here one can find its inner peace that is the most beautiful and rare experience that one can achieve in their lifetime.TIGER’S NEST MONASTERYTiger Nest monastery is also known as the Taksang Monastery. It has become the unofficial symbol of Bhutan. It is the most sacred place of pilgrimage in the country. It was built in 1692, around the Tktsang Senge samdup cave where Guru Padmasambhava is said to have meditated for three years, three months, three days and three hours in the 8thcentury. Perched on a sheer ridge at a dazzling height of 3,000m above sea level and appearing to cling to the side of the rugged cliff face, the sight of this unique holy building will leave you breathless in any way possible.The building is located in a high location of the mountain so one can only reach there by trekking. The walls are painted beautifully with its history carved in it in the artistic form. The trekking will take probably three hours to reach the destination but the result is will be worth it. It was unfortunately burned by fire so it was rebuilt in 1998.WANGDUEIt is located in the heart of Bhutan, Wangdue is a delight for all the senses, encompassing pictorous scenery, majestic architecture and ancient culture eager to be explored and experienced. Back in the years, Wangdue Dzong was the most famous monument of the city but unfortunately, like Tiger Nest Monastery it was also burned down by fire recently in 2012. The reconstruction is in progress and is expected to take several more years to complete. The Dzong was basically built in this location because, whilst searching for a suitable building site, locals saw four different directions, this supposedly symbolized the spread of Buddhism to the four points of the compass. Here in Wangdue people can also connect with the monks to learn about the country’s tradition and culture more deeply. Here you can also learn about the inner working of Buddhism.PARO AND THE PARO VALLEYThis city is blessed with the wealth of architecture and natural beauty. Yet another but worth seeing Dzong here is Rinpung Dzong. It has the most stunning unparallel views of lush Paro Valley. Tourists can also take part in various activities like mountain biking, rafting, and hiking. But the most famous activity of all time here is snowman Trekking. It can be challenging for some people but will be one of the most memorable things done for everyone. It stretches over 5km through high altitude passes. If these outdoor adventurous activities are not the options of the tourist, they have many more other options like meditation outside the sun from behind the region’s dramatic peaks.BEST TIME TO VISITThe altitude in the kingdom in Bhutan ranges from 180 m to 7800 on Himalayan Plateau and the climate varies accordingly. October to December is the best time in which one can visit Bhutan and experience the most of it as the air is clear and fresh with clear and sunny skies. This time period is perfect for trekking. For the people who prefer winters most can go between January to February. But then in April, the climate becomes dry and pleasant spring comes to welcome the tourists.ABOUT THE VISABhutan has a unique policy for visa unlike other country’s around the globe. The Bhutan visa card can only be applied through a licensed Bhutan tour operator that arranges the tour of Bhutan in behalf.Indian Citizens, Bangladeshi Citizens, and Maldives Citizens need not to get a visa to visit Bhutan. But for the visa-free policy, here are some norms that have to be followed:-Documents required=>Indian Passport with month validity remainingVoter’s cardIdentification slip to provide adequate proof of CitizenshipRequirements for children under 17=>Birth certificateschool IDBUDGETHigh season months (March, April, May, September, October, and November), the visiting Bhutan can cost up to $250 US per person a day. If there is a solo trip then there is a bill of up to $290 because of the surplus of $40 a day.