the original members of the group had gone through a screening process in order to put together a mix of skilled adults as well as young families that would be prepared psychologically to withstand starting a new settlement from scratch with little infrastructure and modern comforts. there were no paved roads or paths. water was supplied periodically by a tanker truck. electricity was provided by a generator since no electrical network existed in that area. tents were replaced by prefabricated concrete blocks which served as living quarters, schools, and an infirmary. on september 1, 1978, the school year was officially opened.