The Idaho Treasure Valley will host the 2009 World Winter Games of the Special Olympics in February, 2009.  NNU has been asked to be responsible for all educational efforts associated with the Global Stewardship aspect of this world event, and NNU Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) has adopted two projects to fulfill this responsibility (see article dated 1/8).  One project has been the development of a centerpiece interactive Eco-Mural located in downtown Boise, and we’re proud to announce that the Game Mural is now up!

The wall can be seen at the Southwest Corner of 8th and Main in Boise.  80 panels of plywood are painted in full color and span 300 feet along the street on the south and east sides of the block.  The south wall of the mural relates to the Greening of the Games and depicts eight icons with action steps everyone can take to be part of a global greening effort.  The action steps include;

• Use natural light whenever possible
• Plant trees
• Be sure your faucets don’t drip
• Keep waterways clean
• Turn off appliances when not in use
• Use rechargeable batteries

Themes on the east wall are based on the educational initiative of the Games and include values established by the Special Olympics as outcomes; acceptance, unity, empowerment, dignity, courage, strength, pride confidence, fun, joy and respect.

The eight action steps were based upon eight principles that the NNU School of Health and Science created for the Games.  The NNU Art and Design Department then created the icons to go with the principles.  The eight icons will also be placed on refillable water bottles and gift Eco-Bags that every athlete and delegate will receive. The gift bags are a second project SIFE is developing for the Winter Games.

Contributed by Bill Russell

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