1. family and parenting
2. children

At left, William Fuller, Firefighter
Grant Hamilton, Engineer Joe
Bongiorno, Fire Inspector Luke
Smillie and Captain David Jones,
Deputy Chief of Operations at the
At left, Meridian Police officers
recognized at last week’s
Promotions & Award
ceremony held at the December
16th City Council meeting are,
from left, Chris Figal, Rick
Brockbank, Berle Stokes,
Brandon Frasier and Mark Ford.
Also honored with special awards
were Lt. John Overton and
Officer Shannon Taylor.
annual Promotions &
Pinning Ceremony
honoring the Meridian Fire
Department professionals on
December 17th at City Hall.
(See article, additional photos
on Page 20)
(See articles, photos on Pages 10-11)
Serving
w. Ada County
since August
2000
Valley Times
December 22, 2014
Volume 14, Number 51
To subscribe,
call Tom at (208)
841-0461. For
advertising, call
Becky at (208)
850-6526.
www.valleytimesidaho.com
50 cents
Ada celebrates sesquicentennial
Commissioners and guests celebrated 150 years of Ada County at a special reception on December 16th. The county was named for the daughter of Territorial Legislator H.C. Riggs, who led the
effort to create the new county
in 1864. Ada Riggs is memorialized in a bronze plaque unveiled at the event (photo, at
left).
The Commission chamber
was filled with excited people,
young and old and from various
ethnic backgrounds.
Members of the Sesquicentennial Commission spent two
years creating, planning and carrying out the celebration. Activities included visiting 32 schools
to tell the story of Ada County’s
origin and development.
At the Western Idaho State
Fair, commissioners presented a
showcase entitled “Heartfelt
Creations,” which demonstrated
life 150 years ago in Ada County. The commission also sponsored an essay and coloring contest for fourth graders. The two
winners in each category were
present at the celebration to read
their essays and show their colored drawings.
The entire celebration ceremony required only 40 minutes
but attendees enjoyed visiting
and sharing experiences and
memories afterward before
heading their respective ways.
(Continued on Page 2)
From left, Judy Lockhart, Emma Waddell, Stan Ridgeway and
Louise Curtis.
Eagle seniors elect new president, board
Former City Council liaison Stan Ridgeway was recently
elected new president of the Eagle Senior Center. Other officers
are Sylvia Carney, Vice President; Belva Kerstetter, Secretary; and
Debbie Kamphaus, Treasurer. Board members are Donna Abbott,
Louise Curtis, Chet Goodell, Joyce Creacy and Sandra Lothrup.
Seven seniors attended Wednesday’s meeting of the new Stakeholders Subgroup to the new Stakeholders Committee that will vote
on what the City of Eagle will recommend to the Ada County Highway District for the main downtown intersection. (See Page 8)
Meridian completes new Rail
with Trail road crossing study
The City of Meridian commissioned a study to address safety and efficiency concerns surrounding plans for a recreational multi-use pathway along the railroad corridor that runs through the city’s
downtown.
It’s called a”Rail with Trail” (RWT), which is a pathway adjacent to an active rail line. A RWT
has been part of the City’s Pathways Master Plan since its inception in 2007. The Pathways Master
Plan was developed in response to resident support for pedestrian and bicycle connections throughout town and neighboring cities. In 2009, the city adopted a Rail with Trail Action Plan in hopes of
providing an alternate transportation link between Boise and Nampa.
Those who operate the railroad have some concerns with this type of project including pedestrian safety, trespassing and property damage. The City of Meridian is prepared to address these
concerns by separating pedestrian and bicycle traffic from the active rail using fencing, which would
also reduce trespassing and vandalism. The city also has a state statute on its side.
Idaho’s recreation trespass statute (Idaho Code §36-1604) encourages landowners to make public access available by limiting their liability. The statute provides that the landowner owes no duty to
keep the premises safe and assumes no liability for any injury to person or property Further, any
person using the land, with or without permission, is liable for any damage to property. (Page 8)
Shenandoah Rail Corridor near Roanoke, Virginia
Valley Times
Page 2
December 22, 2014
More about Arthur Hart...The prolific author of more than 20
books on Idaho history, Arthur Hart studied architectural history
before becoming director of the Idaho Historical Society. He has
penned toms on pioneer photography, the history of firefighting in
Idaho and a history of the Boise Police Department, Idaho rangeland history, the history of baseball in Idaho, the history of aviation in Idaho and the history of the Western Idaho Fair. More recently books include a history of Eagle, Idaho and the Chinese in
Boise. For decades, he has scribbled notes on 3”x5” cards for use
in a future publication. Arthur always credits his wife, Dee, for her
assistance in production of his many publications.
Ada County Commission Chairman Dave Case speaks at the December 16th ceremony.
Ada’s 150th-year celebration
How does a county commemmorate its 150th year of existence?
Ada County commissioners and staff pulled out all the stops last Tuesday evening to welcome
the public in observance of its founding in 1864.
The Commission chamber was filled with excited people, young and old and from various ethnic
backgrounds.
The Ada County Sheriff’s office researched badges through the years, producing an attractive
display. A new sheriff’s badge celebrating the Sesquincentennial was produced. Sheriff Gary Raney
wore the new badge on a lanyard.
Three $1,000 scholarships
in honor of the Sesquicentennial
have been created, one each to
Idaho State University, the University of Idaho and Boise State
University.
Arthur Hart, author and Director emeritus of the Idaho Historical Society, was honored
with a “Making History” award
but at 93 was unable to attend.
He sent a video greeting to those
in attendance. (See last column)
“All my life, I’ve not wanted to make history but to make
history visible,” he said. His
granddaughter, Sara Marsh, accepted the award on his behalf.
Commissioner Rick Yzaguirre chats with Aaron Shepard of
The ceremony ended with
the Ada County Sheriff’s Office.
refreshments. Each attendee was
given a pewter Sesqincentennial
Christmas ornament to take
home.
(Continued above, at right)
This is the Ada County side of the stone set as the marker of
the confluence of Mores Creek and the Boise River, the
corners of Ada and Boise counties. This was before Lucky
Peak flooded it. The owner of the land removed the marker to
preserve it.
The Boise County side of the rock.
Immaculate Eagle beauty.
• All exterior maintenance covered including
snow removal.
• 2385 sq ft 3 bed 2.5 bath built in 2002.
$239,900.00
• This is a steal for Eagle, ID with brand-new
carpet, hardwood floors and custom blinds
• Additional updates galore.
Call Sara Carr for private showing
208-409-6584
Call or visit any of our financial advisors in
the Meridian area. To find an Edward
Jones office near you, call 1-800-EDJONES
or visit ww.edwardjones.com.
Sesquicentennial ornament
December 22, 2014
VRT posts holiday bus ride information
Reduced ValleyRide Boise bus schedule on Dec. 24th; no bus
service on December 25th and January 1st.
Here is the holiday schedule for ValleyRide bus services in
Ada and Canyon counties:
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
• Boise routes 1, 4, 9x, 11, 16, 17 and 28 will not run. Boise
routes 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 14 and 29 will operate on a Saturday schedule.
• Boise routes 8 and 8x will operate on its normal weekday
schedule.
• Boise Route 10: the 5:45 a.m. and 6:45 a.m. outbound runs
and the 6:40 p.m. inbound run are cancelled.
• All Nampa/Caldwell fixed line and inter county routes will
operate on regular schedules.
December 25 and January 1 - No ValleyRide bus service.
Friday, December 26th, Wednesday, December 31st and
Friday, January 2nd, 2015 - All bus services will operate on regular schedules.
INSPIRE, the Idaho Connections Academy, is now meeting
the needs of Eagle students who learn better outside the traditional
classroom setting. For information about this fully accredited virtual
public school serving grades K-12, visit www.connections
academy.com/idaho-online-school/events.aspx? idEvent=11909.
Meridian Library Bookmobile news
The holidays and school breaks will affect some of the Meridian
Bookmobile stops. While schools are on break, the van will not be
going to Compass Charter, Ten Mile Christian Preschool or
Chaparral Elementary.
Weekend and neighborhood stops are not affected. There are
also times when cancellation will occur due to inclement weather.
To find out where the Bookmobile is going to be, check www.
mldorg. for cancellations.
Readers may also call the Audra Green at 888-4451 or e-mail
[email protected] for further information.
A designated driver is as close as a local phone call. “Let us
drive you home.” Safe transportation for late nighters on the weekend in Meridian, Eagle, Star, Garden City and Hidden Springs areas. Even a first-time DUI conviction can cost upwards of $10,000
in fines, court costs and attorney fees. Protect yourself and your
assets and life safety. Play it smart, be safe while protecting yourself and your loved ones and avoid costly mistakes. For more information, call 631-7744.
A breath of fresh air...Clear your kitchen air naturally by by
opening a window rather than using an exhaust fan, which is often
noisy and ineffective and always a waste of energy. 1,001 Ways to
Save the Earth (San Francisco: Chronicle Books, 2007), number
299
Eagle Senior Center activities
• Tuesday, December 23rd: 11:00 a.m., Senior Jammers; noon, lunch;
and 1:00-3:00 p.m., Pinochle.
• Wednesday, December 24th: 9:00 a.m., Fit & Fallproof Exercise
class; 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Bridge. Van available for medical appointments; call 440-0266.
• Thursday, December 25th: Center closed for Christmas holiday.
• Friday, December 26th: 9:00 a.m., Fit and Fallproof Exercise Class.
• Monday, December 29th: 9:00 a.m., Fit and Fallproof Exercise
Class.
For more information, call 939-0475.
Meridian Senior Center activities
• Tuesday, December 23rd: 10:00 a.m., Mad Hatters Knitters &
Loomers; noon, lunch; and 1:00 p.m., Art Class.
• Wednesday, December 24th: 9:30 a.m., yoga; 11:00 a.m., blood
pressure checks; noon, lunch; and 1:00 p.m., Pinochle.
• Thursday, December 25th: Closed for Chrismas holiday.
• Friday, December 25th: 4:00 p.m., doors open for Bingo.
• Monday, December 29th: 9:30 a.m., Stretch and Tone; noon, lunch;
and 1:00 p.m., Dominoes.
For information, call 888-5555. (Note: There is a $2 charge for all
activities.)
Area Senior Center lunch menu
• Tuesday, December 23rd: Beef Stew, Capri blend veggies, fruit,
green salad with dressing, cornbread and 2% milk.
• Wednesday, December 24th: Hot Dog with Sauerkraut, pork &
beans, carrots, bun and 2% milk.
• Thursday, December 25th: Center closed for Christmas holiday.
• Friday, December 26th: Center closed for Christmasd holiday.
• Monday, December 29th: Pork Roast, mashed potatoes with gravy,
mixed veggies, Graham crackers, whole wheat bread and 2% milk.
For more information, call 888-5555 from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Lunch is served at the Eagle Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays only.
Valley Times
Want to make a difference?
Get involved in a service club
in your community. Help yourself by assisting others to make
where you live and work a better
place. Your local City Hall and
Chamber of Commerce have a
list of clubs and other local
causes and needs.
Congratulations: You are
the proud owner of a new cat or
you are about to become one
because someone is about to gift
you with an animal at Christmas.
You will then be looking
forward to many years of happy
companionship. The first thing
to remeber is that most cats
dislike traveling, so for the trip
home, confine the feline in a
sturdy cat carrier; don’t leave
him or her loose in the car, where
a panic attack could cause an
accident or enable the animal to
escape. The furball may be
scared and yowl to escape, but
don’t give in. For more tips on
what to do before and after you
arrive home with your perrmanent friend, visit www. humane
society.org and support spaying,
neutering and other programs to
help stray animals. Also, see the
FuzzyPaws feature on Page 12
of this issue.
February is Heart Month.
St. Luke’s will hold a free seminar on “Women, Heart Disease
and Stroke” on February 2nd, a
free cooking class on The Mediterranean Diet on February 5th
and 17th and a free seminar on
“How Pregnancy Predicts Your
Future Health” at its Meridian
Medical Center. For information
and to register, visit stlukes
online.org/heart or call (208)
381-9000.
Star Senior Center
activities
Center hours are 10:00 a.m.
to 1:45 p.m. during the week.
Lunch and bus rides are on a
donation basis. Enjoy Dominoes
and shooting pool before lunch
each Wednesday and Friday.
Bingo is played after lunch each
Wednesday and Friday, and Pinochle each Friday at 7:00 p.m.
Books, books on tape, VCR/
DVD movies and CDs/cassette
tapes are available in the office.
The bus is available for pickup
if you need a ride to the center;
call the number below. For information, call 286-7943. Come
visit the center; it’s a great place
to “hang out.”
Integrity Computer
Consulting & Repair
(208) 288-4345
815 Main Street
in downtown Meridian
‘We offer professional
service and affordable rates’
Page 3
Time for a family meeting to
discuss financial preparations?
By Allen Gamel
During the holiday season, you no doubt have a lot going on
in your life including work functions, gatherings with friends and
neighbors, tracking down the elusive “perfect gift,” etc. But you
may find it valuable to add one more event to your calendar: a
family meeting to discuss those financial preparations that affect
you and your loved ones.
Of course, the scope of your meeting will depend on your age
and the age of your children, and on whether you have elderly
parents. So, let’s look at one family meeting scenario that would
work under two different sets of circumstances: you are meeting
with your own grown children or you are meeting with your elderly parents.
In either case, you’ll want to review the following areas:
• Investment information. It’s a good idea to let your grown
children know where you (and your spouse, if still living) keep
your investments and what sort of investments and retirement accounts you own, such as your IRA, 401(k), and so on. You should
also provide your children with the name of your financial advisor. And talk to your parents about their investments. You might
think that this could be challenging topic to bring up, but you might
be surprised at their willingness to talk.
• Estate planning documents. Comprehensive estate planning
can involve a variety of legal documents, such as a will, a living
trust, power of attorney, etc. If you have already created these documents, you need to share both their location and their intent with
your grown children, who will be active players in carrying out
your estate plans. The same is true with your elderly parents so try
and encourage them to share all their estate-planning documents
with you, especially if they will be counting on you for their care.
• Names of professional advisors. As you put together your
estate plans, you will likely need to work with a team of financial,
tax and legal advisors. Make sure your grown children know the
names of these professionals and how to contact them. Similarly,
seek the same information from your parents.
• Wishes for future living arrangements. It’s certainly possible that you
will be able to live independently your
whole life. On the other hand, you may
eventually need some type of long-term
care, such as that provided in a nursing
home or an assisted-living residence.
Let your children know what your feelings are about such a possibility, and
what preparations you have made. And
try to elicit the same information from
your own parents.
Allen Gamel
• Funeral or burial instructions.
Admittedly, you can probably find topics that are more pleasant to
discuss than funeral plans. Yet, if you make your own burial or
cremation plans in advance, and possibly even prepay for them,
you will be taking a tremendous burden off the shoulders of your
loved ones, who won’t be forced to make difficult decisions or
scramble for money at short notice during a highly emotional time
in their lives. Once again, you’ll also want to learn about your
parents’ desires for their final arrangements, and what steps they
may have already taken in this area.
By holding a family meeting about these issues today, you can
avoid a lot of stress and misunderstandings in the future. So bring
out the coffee and cookies, and start talking.
Fish & Game sets January trout release
Personnel from Fish and Game’s Nampa Hatchery will be releasing 1,900 catchable-sized rainbow trout at the following locations during January.
LOCATION WEEK STOCKED NUMBER OF TROUT
Marsing Pond
January 5
450
Wilson Spgs (Nampa) January 12
250
Wilson Springs Ponds
(Nampa)
January 5, 12, 19
400/400/400
The number of trout actually released may be altered by
weather, water conditions, equipment problems or schedule
changes. If delays occur, trout will be stocked when conditions
become favorable.
Page 4
Valley Times
December 22, 2014
A Look Back in Time...by Lila Hill
Community Calendar events
(The Meridian History Center is to the left of the front door
of City Hall. Photos and other items are on display. The center’s
hours are Monday through Friday from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Volunteers
are needed to help us stay open more days. The Meridian Historical Society wishes to add to its collection of the Polk Directories of
Boise City and Ada County. If you
have any and would like to donate
them, they may be left at the History
Center any afternoon between 1:00
and 3:00 or at the City Clerk’s Office
during office hours from 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. For more information, visit
www.wix.com/meridian historycente
/meridian-idaho, www.meridiancity.
org/HPC and Facebook. Looking for
Meridian history source materials?
Your local library has They Came to
Lila Hill
Build a Community by Hill and
Davidson, 1986; Before the Times, Meridian Historical Society
1885-1909 extracts; and “History of the Meridian School District”
by Doug Rutan, a doctoral thesis. The History Center at Meridian
City Hall has copies of the first-named book for $15 and Before the
Times for $25. The office is open from 1:00-3:00 p.m. weekdays.
The Meridian Times is available on microfilm at the Idaho State
Historical Library and Archives in Boise. It is located on the righthand side of the road as you approach the old penitentiary and is
open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m.-4:00
p.m. Call the center at 489-0602; leave a message.
100 Years Ago
Meridian Times
December 25th, 1914
A nail keg too near the stove in H.C. Wilson’s shop near the
Times office caught fire on Tuesday at noon and before the blaze
was extinguished had caught the side of the building. A pail of
water put out the flames.
Provisions of the law in regard to contagious diseases state
that any person who has had any contact with a person suffering
any contagious disease is liable at the discretion of the court if they
expose anyone without disinfection. Monetary fines or imprisonment is possible. Students who are ready to return to school after
having a contagious disease must have a certificate from C.L.
Dutton, the local health officer.
The Methodist Church notes include the information that the
treat given the Sunday School children this year will include an
orange donated by George Parkin.
Seventy-five years ago Meridian Times December 22, 1939
Mr. and Mrs. Tom Gray returned home from the eastern states
after purchasing a new automobile.
Several Meridian girls are helping at the Boise stores during
the Christmas rush. Miss Mary Rice is cashier at the Kress store.
Miss Lorraine Erwin is clerking at Newberry’s, Miss Doris Dean
May at C.C. Anderson’s and Mrs. Katherine Mason at the Cash
Bazaar.
Melvin Ellis has one of three shifts in coaling the big furnaces
at the Meridian creamery plant. One advantage, he says, is there is
no smoking inconvenience as the 165-foot smokestack furnishes
plenty of draft and then some.
P.H. Snow announces he is quitting the blacksmith business on
January 1st, 1940.
Local Union Pacific agent W.E. Jarrett gives fares: A round
trip on the Challenger sleeping car to Los Angeles is $36.20, Pullman extra $52.05. Round trip to Chicago - coaches, $57.18, standard sleeping cars, $69.85.
It was announced last week that George Judd had the highest
grade of those seeking appointment as a clerk at the local post office. He was immediately sworn in as a clerk, effective December
15th. Mr. Judd recently retired as a member of the Meridian High
School faculty.
Fifty Years Ago Meridian News-Times December 17th, 1964
Last-minute complications in the installation of the new press
delayed publication of the Times for several hours. It was necessary to hold some copy and pictures until next week.
School board members voted on Monday night to build a sixclassroom addition to Southside grade school. Plans for an addition in 1995 in Meridian were also announced. Building at Southside
first would cause less transferring of children from school to school
than building in Meridian first.
Chamber of Commerce awards were made at the recent banquet, to Ralph Hunter as “Man of the Year” and James Hiatt as
“Explorer Scout of the Year.” The Jaycees honored Harold (Bud)
Chase of Eagle as the “Outstanding Young Farmer of the Year.”
The Meridian Building and Loan has purchased a lot on the
northwest corner of E. First and Broadway. It was formerly the
• Alzheimer Support Group meets the first Tuesday of every month at 10:00 a.m. in the Meridian
Senior Center. Anyone caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is encouraged to attend. For more
information, call Coordinator Cindy Hill at 888-5555.
• The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4000 & Auxiliary meet the second Tuesday of
each month at the VFW Hall, Meridian & Broadway. Information: 855-0420.
• The American Legion Meridian Post 113 meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.
at the American Legion Hall, 22 W. Broadway Avenue. Information: 590-1710.
• The American Legion Middleton Post 39 meets the last Monday of each month at the Sunrise
Cafe, Middleton. No-host dinner 6:00-7:0 W0 p.m., meeting at 7:00. All current and former military
are invited to join. Contact the Commander at 890-2907 or visit www.eagleid.com/post39.
• American Legion Post 127 & Auxiliary of Eagle meet on the second Tuesday of the month at
7:00 p.m. the Eagle Sewer District, 44 N. Palmetto Avenue, Eagle. For more information about the
organization and its activities, contact Mike Foley at 375-0793. All veterans are invited to attend.
• The Eagle Chamber of Commerce holds its monthly luncheon on the second Tuesday of
every month from noon to 1:00 p.m. at Eagle Hills Golf Course. For more information, call 939-4222
or e-mail [email protected].
• Eagle Lions Club meets the first and third Wednesday at Casa Mexico, 383 W. State Street in
Eagle at noon. For more information including membership, call Hugh Fryling at 258-3630.
• The Eagle Optimist Club meets every Tuesday at noon at Willowcreek Grill, 1065 E. Winding
Creek Drive. Call Gretchen Brown at 208-854-3623 or Mike Harris at 208-947-9368.
• The Eagle-Star Rotary Club meets every Thursdayat noon at Plantation Country Club, 6515
W. State Street. For additional information, call Robin Dodson at 373-1705 or e-mail dodsrobi
@isu.edu.
• First Friday ART IN EAGLE, 4:00-9:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Eagle Arts Commission. “Growing
and Celebrating the Arts to Strengthen Community.” Visit www.EagleArts.org.
• The Knitting Club, a group devoted to knitting items for various charitable organizations,
meets at Eagle Public Library, 100 N. Stierman Way, Eagle, Idaho 83616. For more information, call
Margaret at 939-7162
• Meridian Lions Club meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursday mornings at Hampton Inn & Suites,
875 S. Allen Street, from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m. For additional information, call Loraine Hand at 376-5752.
• The Meridian Chamber of Commerce meets the 1st & 3rd Tuesday; RSVP to 888-2817.
• Meridian Kiwanis Club meets every Wednesday at noon at Louie’s, 888-0044.
• Meridian Lodge #47, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, meets the second Tuesday at
the Masonic Temple, 800 East 2nd Street, Meridian at 7:30 p.m. 888-1455.
• The Meridian Noon Lions meet the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at noon of each month at Fiesta
Guadalajara, 704 E. Fairview Avenue in Meridian. Guests are always welcome. For more info, contact
Del Oswald at 453-2134 or [email protected].
• Meridian Optimist Club meets every Wednesday at 7:00 a.m. at JB’s Restaurant, 1565 S.
Meridian Road, Meridian, 895-0419.
• Meridian Rotary Club meets Mondays at Meadowlake Village east of St. Luke’s Meridian
Medical Center at noon, 344-1117 or 439-6973.
Mailing address: IDAHO UNCLAIMED PROPERTY, P.O. BOX 83720, BOISE, ID 83720-9101
Telephone: 877-388-2942 (Toll Free), (208) 332-2942
Web Address: www.sto.idaho.gov, click on Unclaimed Property
Ambassador Convention Services, Eagle ID 83616; Tracy Arave, Eagle ID 83616; Michael Burgess,
Eagle ID 83616; Steven D. Guelhlein, Eagle ID 83616; Jesus O. Martinez, Eagle ID 83616; Ryan E. McRoberts,
Eagle ID 83616; Sharilyn Nielsen, Eagle ID 83616; Loraine B. Richardson, Eagle ID 83616; Jennifer Schwen,
Eagle ID 83616; Blanche M. Sproat, Eagle ID 83616; Kevin J. Torkelso, Eagle ID 83616; Ambiance LLC,
Meridian ID 83642; D.W. Ary, Meridian ID 83642l Nanci Bunch, Meridian ID 83642; Capitol Distributing
Co., Meridian ID 83642; Justo Caudillo, Meridian ID 83642; Eugene Corbett, Meridian ID 83642; Rosalee
Corbett, Meridian ID 83642; James D. Dana, Meridian ID 83642; Shellby J. Dana, Meridian ID 83642;
Nicolas Duggan, Meridian ID 83642; Jennifer Hunter, Meridian ID 83642; Leslie A. Keller, Meridian ID
83642; Robert Marshall, Meridian ID 83642; and Patrick Charles Nickel, Meridian ID 83642.
Eagle Senior Center in the news...Every second Wednesday, the St. Luke’s Humphreys Diabetes
Center Foot Clinic offers foot care. Cost is $30 and includes filing callouses, trimming nails, checking
for nerve damage and assessing overall foot health; call 287-3066. On the last Thursday, the
Alzheimer’s Association Greater Idaho Chapter’s free workshop is from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at St. Luke’s
Eagle, 2nd floor, 3101 E. State Street. For more information, call President Laurel Jobes at 939-0475.
The best holiday advice comes from St. Luke’s: Don’t strive to be
‘perfect.’ This holiday season, don’t try and do everything. Don’t
decorate, bake or buy yourself into exhaustion and debt. Give yourself
and your family and friends a break by focusing on the traditions and
activities you love best. And when things don’t go as planned, which will
happen, accept the imperfections in yourself and others. This is supposed
to be a season of joy, peace and good cheer, so make it a relaxing and
happy time for you and those around you. Did you know that people tend
to become sad and depressed and vulnerable to alcohol and drug abuse
during the holidays? Don’t let that happen to you! Stay focused, active
and healthy and you’ll be more open to those positive events and
influences we all need to succeed and to thrive at this time of the year.
location of a service station and for the past few years has been a public parking lot.
When Harry Bryce suffered a relapse after having the flu on Tuesday last week, it was the first
time in over 32 years that both he and Mrs. Bryce missed the Meridian sale on the same day. Mrs.
Bryce stayed home to care for her husband.
Twenty-Five Years Ago
Meridian News-Times
December 27th, 1989
Construction of a new bridge on Linder Road over the Phyllis Canal is now under way. Crews are
first building a detour bridge to be used while workers construct the permanent bridge for Linder. The
old bridge has had a 25-mile-per-hour speed limit since November 1988, when inspectors noted an
accelerated increase in deterioration.
The Meridian Ministers Fellowship has provided ways the community may assist with a food
bank project it established in the early 1980s. The bank is helping an average of 30 families every
month. The dollar value of food distributed is at a rate of more than $9,000 per year. (Prior to this,
City Hall was in charge of the local food bank and food was collected by local high school students on
Halloween before a dance at the high school.)
Valley Times
December 22, 2014
Page 5
ONE VET’S VIEW
John H. Burns, [email protected], www.rockofhonor.com,
Facebook: Rock of Honor, www.jhburns.com
President, Rock of Honor Memorial [email protected]
Telephone: 515-9200
Jingle bell Christmas . . .
By John H. Burns
One of the most joyful sounds in the world is the sound of bells jingling.
“Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.” is the happiest song of my childhood.
When I heard the jing-a-ling of the jingle bells, I knew it was time for Santa Claus.
To this day, the melody bounces around in my head and brings up memories of standing on the
curb watching the Christmas Day parade and waiting for Santa Claus and his jingle bell sleigh.
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way is the happiest song of childhood.
I also remember as a young seaman how in a strange country, I
walked along a bombed-out corridor of shops and makeshift sales
counters, where inhabitants sold trinkets and wares as souvenirs.
I found a string of jingle bells. I bought them and hung them on the
Christmas tree aboard my ship.
The sound of jingling bells ushers in the Santa Claus season.
The sound of jingle bells promises the joys of Christmas morning,
of waking up to discover brightly wrapped gifts under the decorated
Christmas tree. Jingle bells usher in the season of Christmas.
So may you and your family have a Merry, Joyful, Blessed, Jingle
Bell Christmas this year and for many to come!
Ho-Ho-Ugh
By Becky McKinstry • www.coach.usana.com
This time of year brings to the surface the memories of loved ones and experiences we hold dear
as we reflect on the past. We remember moments and people that have left their imprint and helped us
with life’s lessons as well as the gift of optimism as welook forward of what is yet to come.
I hope this holiday season finds your hearts filled with joy and gratitude. As we reflect, we know
life throws us some challenges and the lessons we learned came mostly from the more difficult times
we faced.
As you look back on past holidays, what do you remember the most? Was it the time you spent
with loved ones or do you do you think of it more as a season of added pounds, added stress and the
ugh memories when it’s all over. Ugh could be short for ugly high-calorie foods, hangovers from too
much to drink and too many messes to clean up.
So this year, don’t let the ugh take the fun out of the season. Instead take some time to put
together your plan and HO-HO-HO your way into the New Year. To help accomplish this, there are
some daily to-do’s that will help you keep the season jolly and the brain sane.
This includes taking time for self-care by adding some kind of exercise every day; take a walk,
go to the gym, stretch and make sure you take lots of deep breaths throughout the day. Next, pay
attention to your calorie intake, know what you are eating and drinking. Seventeen trips past the M
and M bowl at a handful per pass add up fast. Drinking a glass or two of wine can be walked off but
four or five several days a week start showing up in places you don’t want to see it.
Sugar and complaining kill brain cells so keep your brain in the moment
and pay attention to what you are eating, drinking and thinking. You will find
the holidays less stressful and a whole lot healthier.
Another way to add joy to the season is to give the gift of listening and
sharing memories of life’s moments. Take a walk down memory lane with
children and grandchildren and share past traditions and make new ones that
live on year after year.
The material gifts come and go but good health, good times and the magic
of creating memories and traditions that last a lifetimeis the real gift in the
Becky McKinstry
season.
Local Edward Jones team participates in advanced training
Calvin Barrett, a financial advisor with the financial services firm Edward Jones in Meridian,
and Jennifer Weeks, a branch office administrator, recently attended an invitation-only training opportunity at the firm’s headquarters in St. Louis. The three-day Advanced Practice Management
Forum is offered to branch teams throughout the country who rank among the top third most successful in the firm in helping clients work toward their long-term financial goals.
”The Advanced Practice Management Forum gave us an opportunity to share ideas with other
successful teams, visit with home-office experts to discuss ways to meet more clients’ needs and
view technical demonstrations highlighting a variety of systems and tools,” Barrett said. “Jennifer
and I also were able to tailor some of the training to focus on areas of our business we want to grow.”
Weeks adds, “Attending this training together will help us better serve our clients. We now share
a clearer vision of the best practices, tools and resources to use in earning new clients, deepening
relationships with existing clients and overall delivering an ideal client experience.”
Edward Jones, a Fortune 500 company, provides financial services for individual investors in the United
States and, through its affiliate, in Canada. Every aspect of the firm’s business, from the types of investment
options offered to the location of branch offices, is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work. The firm’s 13,000-plus financial advisors work directly with nearly 7 million
clients to understand their personal goals, from college savings to retirement and create long-term investment
solutions that emphasize a well-balanced, diversified portfolio. Edward Jones embraces the importance of
building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the
investment options available today. Headquartered in St. Louis, Edward Jones ranked No. 4 overall in FORTUNE magazine’s 2014 100 Best Companies to Work For ranking. Visit the web site at www.edwardjones.com
and the recruiting web site at www.careers.edwardjones.com. Follow them on Twitter @EdwardJones. Member SIPC. FORTUNE and Time Inc. are not affiliated with and do not endorse Edward Jones products or
services.
John Burns
Contributions are greatly
appreciated to the:
VETERANS ROCK OF
HONOR MEMORIAL
Post Office Box 1531
Meridian, ID 83680-1531
Ed. note: John Burns’ collections of short stories are available
from amazon.com; his publisher, Crystal Dreams; or himself at
[email protected]. They’re great reading & gifts!
John Burns’ short story, “Pavan for Sylvia,” is featured in the
Fall edition of Hynos magazine available at Barnes and Noble and
Hastings bookstores.
The Meridian Senior Bridge group meets every Thursday
and Friday at 12:30 p.m. at Ten Mile Christian Church on the
northwest corner of Ten Mile and Franklin roads. Questions?
Call 288-2497.
Beware on-line scam targeting Idaho Power customers
Idaho Power warns customers to beware of a digital pop-up ad
that may appear while you are on the Internet. The ad targets Idaho
Power Company customers and offers a reward for completing a
survey. This ad is not from Idaho Power, and it is not legitimate.
This form of advertising is commonly called “malvertising.” Don’t
click on the ad or take the survey. You’ll be asked to provide personal information, and clicking on the ad will likely infect your
computer. And you won’t get a reward.
This is just one of several ways scammers attempt to steal from
Idaho Power customers. For tips on how to avoid being a victim of
utility payment scams, visit idahopower.com/scam.
New video shows growth of clean, renewable hydropower
Idaho Power customers have benefited from clean, renewable
hydroelectric power for nearly a century. Now this flexible, reliable energy source is being recognized as an important part of
American’s New Energy Era in a new video produced by The National Hydropower Association. See how the nation’s largest source
of renewable electricity is growing, bringing more low-cost power
to American families and creating jobs across the country, at
hydro.org.
You can learn more about Idaho Power’s 17 hydroelectric
projects by visiting IdahoPower.com/aboutus. Together, they account for more than half of the energy Idaho Power generates in a
typical year.
Still time to apply for Powering Tomorrow Grant
Schools and nonprofits working to improve the quality of life
in their communities are urged to apply for a Powering Tomorrow
Grant from Idaho Power. Dozens have already applied; we’d like
to hear more from groups in our Oregon service area – Ontario,
Vale, Halfway, Huntington and other communities, tell us your
stories! Your organization could win a grant worth up to $1,500.
The deadline to apply is January 16. Full eligibility requirements and entry guidelines are available on our Facebook page, at
Facebook.com/idahopower.
Keep your shopping dollars close to
home...Where you shop for groceries and
what you buy matters. Always look for the
“Grown in Idaho®” seal when you shop for
potatoes at the local market. When it comes
to our state’s economic health, your shopping
habits matter a lot. Help support our state’s
best-known produce. For facts, tips and
recipes, visit www. idaho potato .com.
Volunteers are still needed at the Meridian Senior Center, Julius
M. Kleiner Memorial Park, in the dining room from 10:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. and during Friday night Bingo from 5:00-9:00 p.m. Get
involved in your community by helping local seniors. You will
find the experience very rewarding as you give back to the
community that gives so much to all of us. If you have time to
volunteer during the holiday season that is upon us, e-mail Mary
at [email protected]. For general information about the
center and its programs, call 888-555 during regular business hours.
There is nothing like helping those who have devoted their entire
lives to their family, friends and community.
Whether it’s your company’s party or a celebration with
friends or family, check out the local pros at My Masterpiece
Parties at 603 E. State Street in downtown Eagle. They can
handle your special event and work with you to ensure the most
successful party you’ve ever had, sponsored or attended anywhere. For more information, give Michelle a call today at 9381370.
Page 6
Valley Times
December 22, 2014
Opinion - Editorial
Congress takes our family farmers,
ranchers for a ride in new spending bill
The results of last month’s midterm elections apparently mean nothing. Conservatives proclaimed
loudly with their votes, “Stop the madness in Washington!” referring to runaway federal spending,
the insanity known as Obamacare and the impending amnesty for untold millions of illegal aliens.
But all that meant nothing. The same Big Government Republicans (BGRs) that trembled and cowered before the Communist Democrats in power before the election, behaved as though nothing had
changed after the election. In fact, they began busily marginalizing incoming conservative Representatives and Senators and passed a budget funding Obamcare through next fall. What this means is, we
have the GOP to thank or blame for our current intractable mess as the Dems. The Prevaricator-inChief continues his “business” as though no election were held. In fact, he and his minions that
includes Republicans could not care less about the outcome. This is more than depressing and infuriating; it is a measure of how far we have sunk in the past six years. The political system we thought
we had has vanished and there’s no longer even a patina or appearance of “checks and balances”
anymore. The Congress and GOP have abdicated their responsibility to oppose this increasing tyranny and what are we common folk expected to do about it? Absolutely nothing. - FT
There’s no amount of good you can’t
do with someone else’s money
By Wayne Hoffman
At first blush, there’s something intrinsically repulsive about the state’s decision to provide taxpayer handouts to the developers of a luxury hotel complex in Ketchum. Maybe it’s in the words
“luxury” and “hotel,” conjuring images of “opulence” and “exclusivity” all funded with special tax
breaks out of reach to the rest of us. Odious as it might sound, it’s actually a lot worse.
There is only one Ketchum, Idaho. If you want to build a destination resort to capitalize on the
unique year-round recreation and tourism opportunities of the Sun Valley area, you pretty much have
to build there. And yet, the state Department of Commerce decided to award a $132,000 tax handout
for a 100-room luxury hotel complex that, according to press reports, will occupy a city block and
include residences and timeshares.
Department of Commerce Director Jeff Sayer contends the project deserves a special taxpayer
deal because the company could have chosen to focus its considerable resources elsewhere.
“We are also competing for capital. (The resort’s developers) actually had capital that they could
deploy in different locations,” Sayer told me. What this really means is Idaho is prepared to write a
check to anyone to do virtually anything. This is the ultimate in corporate welfare.
If Sayer is correct, every business with a national presence and a plan to expand is equally
eligible for corporate welfare. The Starbucks down the road could just as easily be built in Seattle as
Idaho Falls. Every Walmart, every Holiday Inn and every AutoZone might deploy resources anywhere besides Idaho. Rather than take that chance, the state could take its preemption campaign of
government handouts to every corporate headquarters in America. I understand Hilton is looking to
build a hotel somewhere. Taco Bell could build in Reno, but why not Challis?
This luxury hotel deal isn’t quite as glamorous as it appears to be. A big loser will be local
entrepreneurs who might have entered the market with their own project to service the needs of the
local community. They’ve been shut out. The bigger losers will be the residents, workers and customers of the area. Local businesses will have to compete against the newcomer, the business with a
unique salary scale, price structure and profit margins because it’s the
one competing with the one that has a sweetheart deal with the government.
As a result of the state government’s tinkering in the marketplace,
you can fully expect artificially inflated wages and prices. Those artificially inflated wages will harm the number of jobs, the types of benefits
and workable hours that nonsubsidized businesses can offer.
Higher prices will mean a rougher time for those people already struggling to make ends meet. They’ll get to drive by it every day, and they’ll
get to pay for it with higher marginal tax rates but they’ll probably not
have the money to rent a room in the luxury hotel they’re helping pay for.
Wayne Hoffman
That’s what makes this deal as rotten as it sounds.
By John Crabtree, [email protected], Center for Rural Affairs
What does Congress have against family farmers and ranchers? The $1.1 trillion spending bill passed last week included the
full version of the so-called GIPSA rider passed earlier by the House
of Representatives. A rider is a legislative provision attached to a
larger spending bill.
There are not enough ways to describe how bad this hidden
policy package truly is. It limits USDA’s ability to protect farmers’ and ranchers’ basic rights, such as their freedom of speech and
freedom of association. The Packers and Stockyards Act, passed
in 1921, was written to protect farmers and ranchers from discriminatory, deceptive and abusive practices when they sell livestock
and poultry to meatpacking corporations.
Congress abandoned those principles when they passed the
FY 2015 federal spending bill. They abandoned USDA’s effort to
provide smaller volume livestock producers a more competitive
livestock market and greater fairness for farmers and ranchers. The
2008 Farm Bill required Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to
write regulation, under the Packers and Stockyards Act, to prohibit undue and discriminatory preferences given to large, industrial livestock operations and to provide basic protections to farmers and ranchers who do business with meatpacking corporations.
Secretary Vilsack proposed the best and most comprehensive livestock market reforms since the passage of the Packers and Stockyards Act.
Unfortunately, Congress has repeatedly undercut his efforts.
Family farmers and ranchers, need and deserve access to competitive livestock markets that reward them fairly for their work. That’s
something Congress must figure out, and soon.
Established in 1973, the Center for Rural Affairs is a private, nonprofit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms
and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs
addressing social, economic and environmental issues.
Meridian Optimists thank supporters
Members of the Meridian Optimist Club would like to say
“thank you” to all those who supported the just-completed annual
Christmas tree sale as well as those who lend their support to other
ongoing programs including the Junior Rifle Club, scholarships
etc.
Because of your support, the programs are successful and continue to thrive in ways that benefit the youth of our community.
The Optimists wish you and yours the merriest of Christmases and
the happiest of New Years!
Published continuously in Western Ada County since August 2000
Valley Times
Now in our fifteenth year of continuous publication in western Ada County
Published every Monday by Valley Times, LLC
Current issue available on the web site: www.valleytimesidaho.com
Publisher/Editor: Valley Times, LLC
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1790, Eagle ID 83616
Fax: 381-0160 • web site: www.valleytimesidaho.com
Advertising information: Call 407-5224
Marketing/Subscription Specialists: Becky McKinstry, Tom McKinstry
E-mail: [email protected]
Reporter/Photographer: Anita Torres
Subscription price: $38 yr./$45 out-of-state
Newsstand price: 50 cents per issue
Periodicals postage paid at Eagle, Idaho 83616 under USPS No. 010-467
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Valley Times, LLC, Box 1790,
Eagle ID 83616
Contributors: Lila Hill, Becky McKinstry, John H. Burns and Rich Nesbit
Member: Eagle Chamber of Commerce (Community Partner Award, 2013),
Meridian Chamber of Commerce (Small Business Award, 2010)
Meridian Downtown Business Association (Board member, 2014)
Interior Dept posts initial steps to
expand its ‘guidance’ on federal coal
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Department of the Interior last
week announced the release of a draft proposed federal regulation
by the Office of Natural Resources Revenue (ONRR) governing
the valuation of federal oil and gas, and federal and American Indian
coal resources, as well as expanded guidance on the production of
coal on public lands issued by the Bureau of Land Management
(BLM). Both initiatives seek to provide greater clarity and certainty
for the energy industry and are part of the Department’s larger
effort to help ensure the American public receives every dollar due
for domestic energy resources. (Continued across at right)
December 22, 2014
Valley Times
Rubio: Rand Paul is ‘clueless’ on Obama’s Cuba move
By Daniel Doherty, www.townhall.com
Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) thinks the president’s decision to “normalize” relations with Cuba is
“probably a good idea.” Once again, he’s walking a lonely and desolate road as almost all Republicans and even some Democrats oppose such a policy shift.
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), for instance, has been sounding the alarm about appeasing an entrenched and despotic dictator, warning that doing so will not bring prosperity and self-government
to Cuba as intended.On the contrary, as he stated in his much-watched press conference earlier this
week, reconciliation will merely “tighten this regime’s grip on power.”
With respect to the embargo, he also reminded his colleagues on The Kelly File that we already
trade with Cuba and send Americans there. Thus lifting the embargo, he argued, will not, in any
meaningful sense, improve conditions on the island. To emphasis his point, Rubio slammed the
junior Senator from Kentucky for regurgitating and believing false talking points.
“Like many people that have been opining, [Rand Paul] has no idea what he’s talking about,”
Rubio said. “What’s hurting the Cuban people is not the embargo. What’s hurting the Cuban people
is the Cuban government.”
Downtown resident: How can the current Eagle Road/
State Street subgroup stakeholder process be fair?
By Cindy Stroud
The public should be information about what is going on in regards to the Eagle Road/State
Street Study and Analytical Hierarchical Process or AHP spearheaded by Councilman Jeff Kunz.
What’s happening is an attempt by the City of Eagle to circumvent a fair AHP process in regards
to the study. Councilman Kunz was not satisfied with a mailing that went out to affected residents of
the proposed intersection alternative that culminated in a majority of residents of Olde Park Place
attending to choose myself as the residential stakeholder representative on November 19, 2014. This,
despite the fact that he rushed the process and was very satisfied with having Jane Kramer as the
volunteer to do that when only five residents showed up.
Many things have transpired since then and moving forward, Mr. Kunz is suggesting a process
that is inconsistent with the way the new Business Stakeholders Committee was chosen vis a vis the
Residential Stakeholders group. There is an obvious bias in the way Mr. Kunz is steamrolling this
process forward asking for a new mailing to expand the residential stakeholder group. And not only
that, to include possible people outside the impacted area. The City Council on December 16 voted to
fund a second mailing.
Throughout this process, Kunz has resisted speaking to the elected residential stakeholder representative and has been very combative toward Olde Park Place Residents who turned out for the vote
and who have spoken about the unfairness of how this process is being conducted. Residents managed to speak at the November 25th and December 16th meetings despite opposition, as well as sent
e-mails to the city and public record requests that have been “lost in cyberspace” and not responded
to. Mr. Kunz is unresponsive to personal e-mails and is intent on doing whatever he can to work this
process to go his way.
The new process that he is proposing will not represent impacted residential stakeholders fairly
to the extent a business stakeholder, Naomi Preston, even pointed this out at the December 16th
council meeting. She reminded the council that Jeff Kunz only mailed to businesses that were adjacent to Eagle Road and State Street, and questioned if it was fair that impacted residences were being
treated differently. Now the City’s argument is morphing into that the intersection alternatives affect
all of the City of Eagle and thus the stakeholder group for residents needs to be widened, but there is
already a public input survey in place on the city web site for everyone in the city to express their
voice!
Fact: A mailing was done to affected residential stakeholders. People came to the November 19th
meeting and voted. Jeff Kunz didn’t like the results and got the city attorney involved to steamroll
over Olde Park Place (once again, a majority of the adjacent residential impacted area). This is very
suspicious because one of the alternatives, the One-Way Couplet, is very destructive to Olde Park
Place.
One of the stated reasons that the city came up with to rescind the Roundabout decision (this is
on their web site under Eagle Road/State Street Study) was that adjacent businesses didn’t have a
say in the matter. Now, ironically, the city is going along with Jeff Kunz’s push to deny adjacent
residences the same right by doing everything in their power to water down their vote. (See the
December 16th meeting on the web site with the idea of drawing “circles” and giving each circle a
vote despite the fact that they are not adjacent to prove this) point.
One last point: This entire process was conducted last year and the roundabout alternative was
selected by the council and approved by the Ada County Highway District. Councilman Kunz got up
at that meeting and spoke against the roundabout. ACHD then voted and approved the roundabout.
At a later date, the businesses were upset and the City Council asked ACHD to rescind the decision
for the roundabout, stating that they will start again. Now, Jeff Kunz, who is biased against the
roundabout, is leading this process. How can this process be fair considering all that has transpired?
Interior Dept.’s ‘guidance’ on federal coal (continued from previous page)
The current oil, gas and coal valuation regulations originally put in place for natural gas and coal
in the late 1980s have not kept pace with significant market changes that have occurred in the domestic
natural gas and coal markets since that time. The existing federal oil valuation regulations are a
decade old. The proposed draft regulation being released by ONRR today will update the regulations
to help keep pace with modern technology and practices.
“Coal produced on public lands is an important part of our domestic energy portfolio, but we
have an obligation and we are fully committed to ensure that the American taxpayer receives a fair
return for the production of domestic energy resources,” said Deputy Secretary of the Interior Mike
Connor. “The initial steps we are taking are part of the larger effort to strengthen the management of
coal production on public lands by providing greater certainty and predictability to the industry and
helping to protect American taxpayers. We look forward to receiving public comment on the draft
proposal.”
Existing gas and coal valuation regulations may require an energy company to follow benchmarks
when it sells its product to an affiliated company. Benchmarks for coal are applied sequentially and
Page 7
Mayor Tammy’s
Musings
Serve and
Protect
By Mayor Tammy de Weerd
Christmas is almost here! While most of us will spend the holiday at home gathered around the tree and table with loved ones,
there are many people who won’t, including those who serve our
residents in public safety roles – our police and fire personnel.
As I reflect on this season of giving, it’s hard not to think of
just how much those in public safety give each and every day to
our city. We recently recognized four of our Meridian police officers because thanks to their quick thinking, they saved lives at two
separate incidents.
I couldn’t help but feel overwhelming gratitude as I shook
their hands. At the same time, I realized we just don’t tell those in
public safety “thank you” enough. Each day, they put on their uniforms not knowing what is ahead of them or what situations will
be presented; the holidays are no exception. It takes a special kind
of person to commit to that ongoing service for our community.
On top of their day-to-day duties, I’m constantly blown away
by all of the programs our police and fire department employees
support in our community. This holiday season, they purchased
gifts for children with the Meridian Boys and Girls Club who otherwise may not have received presents this Christmas. Our police
department’s victim witness coordinators identified families in need
and used funds from the City’s bake sale to purchase items for
those children and families. And at every Meridian Fire Station,
you’ll find bins for the Meridian Food Bank as our stations collect
food and other items year round.
I believe that those in our police and fire departments symbolize what Meridian is all about – giving and serving others. Their
selfless service is a reason our community is one of the best and
most safe places to call home.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to our men and women
who put on a badge or uniform each day and go above and beyond
to serve our community. Merry Christmas!
include comparable arm’s-length sales, prices reported to public
utility commissions and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, other relevant matters and a netback calculation. These
benchmarks can be administratively burdensome to industry trying
to report and pay proper royalties and to regulators reviewing
royalty payments for audit and compliance purposes. The proposed
regulation aims to remedy this and other issues caused by outdated
rules with clearer regulations that better reflect the changing energy
industry, while protecting taxpayer and American Indian assets.
The BLM today is also sending updated guidance to the field
that will help ensure a consistent and efficient coal lease sale
process, increase clarity in determining fair market value and
provide guidance on independent review of appraisal reports. The
guidance will enable the Bureau to account for export potential
through analysis of comparable sales and income.
The BLM coal program’s revised manuals and handbooks are
part of a suite of actions that the BLM has undertaken following
the recommendations of a June 2013 audit by the Department of
the Interior Office of Inspector General and a February 2014
Government Accountability Office report. Previous guidance has
been issued regarding publicly available information such as the
accepted fair market value and historical lease sale data, and not
accepting coal lease bids below the pre-sale fair market value.
Over the past two years, the BLM has developed new training
programs for coal specialists and completed the first phase of a
bureau-wide tracking system for coal inspections. The handbooks
and manuals may be viewed on-line at the web site posted below.
The BLM has also released safety, inspection and enforcement
guidance to promote more responsible development of coal resources on the nation’s public lands, including: improved documentation for coal operation inspections on coal exploration licenses, licenses to mine, leases, and logical mining units; and increased Mineral Mine Inspector training and certification requirements.
The Consolidated Federal Oil & Gas and Federal & Indian
Coal Valuation Reform rule will be published in the Federal Register on January 6, 2015, which initiates a 60-day public comment
period.
The notice will on the web at www.regulations.gov. Comments
may be made on-line at the web site.
Page 8
Valley Times
Idaho plan to transform healthcare system
receives federal grant for nearly $40 million
The Department of Health and Welfare has just received a four-year state innovation model grant
for $39,683,813 to facilitate the transformation of Idaho’s healthcare delivery system from a fee-forservice, volume-based system to a value-based system of care focused on improving health outcomes
and reducing costs.
The grant from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation will fund a four-year model
test that begins on Feb. 1, 2015, and is designed to implement the Idaho State Healthcare Innovation
Plan (SHIP). During the grant period, Idaho will demonstrate that the state’s entire healthcare system
can be transformed through effective care coordination between primary care providers practicing
patient-centered care and the broader medical neighborhoods of specialists, hospitals, behavioral
health professionals, long-term care providers, and other ancillary care services.
“This grant is pivotal because it starts the process of creating better health outcomes for Idaho
residents while also eventually reducing the high cost of healthcare in our state,” said DHW Director
Richard Armstrong. “But it’s also the cap on years of collaborative work among many stakeholders
across the state who have been meeting regularly as the governor-appointed Idaho Healthcare
Coalition.”
IHC members include private and public payers, legislators, health system leaders, primary care
providers, nurses, healthcare membership association representatives and community representatives.
Idaho’s proposal identifies seven goals that together will bring about the transformation of Idaho’s
healthcare system.
Goal 1: Transform primary care practices across the state into patient-centered medical
homes (PCMHs): Idaho will test the effective integration of patient-centered medical homes into
the larger healthcare delivery system by establishing them as the vehicle for delivery of primary care
services and the foundation of the state’s healthcare system.
Goal 2: Improve care coordination through the use of electronic health records (EHRs)
and health data connections among patient-centered medical homes and across the medical
neighborhood: Idaho’s proposal includes significant investment in connecting patient-centered
medical homes to the Idaho Health Data Exchange (IHDE) and enhancing care coordination through
improved sharing of patient information.
Goal 3: Establish seven regional collaboratives to support the integration of each patientcentered medical home with the broader medical neighborhood: At the local level, Idaho’s seven
public health districts will serve as regional collaboratives that will support provider practices as
they transform to patient-centered medical homes.
Goal 4: Improve rural patient access to patient-centered medical homes by developing
virtual patient-centered medical homes: This goal includes training community health workers
and integrating telehealth services into very rural or frontier practices. The virtual patient-centered
medical home model is a unique approach to developing patient-centered medical homes in rural,
medically underserved communities.
Goal 5: Build a statewide data analytics system: Grant funds will support development of a
state-wide data analytics system to track, analyze and report feedback to providers and regional
collaboratives. At the state level, data analysis will inform policy development and program monitoring
for the entire healthcare system transformation.
Goal 6: Align payment mechanisms across payers to transform payment methodology from
volume to value: Idaho’s three largest commercial insurers, Blue Cross of Idaho, Regence and
PacificSource, along with Medicaid will participate in the model test. Payers have agreed to evolve
their payment model from paying for volume of services to paying for improved health outcomes.
Goal 7: Reduce healthcare costs: Financial analysis conducted by outside actuaries indicates
that Idaho’s healthcare system costs will be reduced by $89 million over three years through new
(Continued in next columns, across at right and above)
Meridian completes Rails with Trails Study
(Continued from Page 1)
“RWT’s provide safe and intentional alternatives to trespassing on tracks,” said Lars Anderson
of Project Engineering Consultants. Anderson completed a study on the project that included safety
solutions such as multiple road crossing concepts. He presented those findings to the Meridian City
Council at the December 9th meeting.
“Pedestrian crossings are designed to avoid vehicle-railroad conflicts and the trail leads to fewer
incidents of trespassing and illegal dumping,” he said. Also, the presence of trail users deters crimes
such as vandalism.”
He also said that it’s possible to build outside the railroad property, but it’s much cheaper to do it
closer to the rails with permission from the rail owner/operator.
The location of the pathway itself has not been finalized as the city is still weighing the advantages and challenges arising from the railroad’s current and future operations. Whether the pathway
is physically located on the north or south side of the rail and whether it is located on the railroad
property or adjacent to it is still up in the air, though the city would like to see it built within the rail
right-of-way.
At this point, city officials say there are still many things to consider before the plan moves
forward.
Recent Rail with Trail studies from around the nation show:
• As of June 2014, there are 217 “Rail with Trails”in 42 states.
• Since 2011, there have been 1,590 trespasser deaths in rail corridors, but since 1992, only one
death of a trail user on a RWT.
• In 20 years, there have been one fatality and two injuries on RWT. A lawsuit filed in the fatality
and neither the railroad, nor the trail manager were found liable as the cyclist failed to slow or
attempt to stop at the 90-degree track crossing, which was signed with a warning, a rail crossing and
a stop sign. The court specifically noted that the trail crossing had in fact improved safety for
pedestrians and cyclists.
• Of the 88 trail managers, seven had claims filed for trail conditions, but no claims were filed
against the railroad, even in one case where a gate was left open by railroad workers because the
railroad was indemnified.
December 22 2014
public and private payment methodologies that incentivize
providers to focus on appropriateness of services, improved quality
of care and outcomes rather than volume of service. Idaho projects
a return on investment for all populations of 197 percent for five
years.
Eagle seniors hear AHP presentation
Seven seniors attended the December 17th meeting at the center to hear Councilman Jeff Kunz presented the Alternative Hierarchy Process (AHP).
Councilman Stan Ridgeway said, “The original stakeholders
committee just wasn’t the best choice.” In the summer of 2013,
city staff opted not to include any downtown business or property
owners in that committee.
The City Council in August 2013 voted 3-2 with Kunz and
Ridgeway against to endorse a multilane roundabout at the intersection. Business owners and residents descended upon elected
officials, causing them to change their vote to a unanimous “no”
on the roundabout in March 2014.
“The City has an opportunity from ACHD to reevaluate the
downtown intersection in creating a series of stakeholder subgroups”
at Old State Street and Eagle Road, Kunz said. Each subgroup includes residents, businesses and property owners who are asked to
select a primary and secondary representative to the main group
which could meet as early as January.
At Tuesday’s City Council meeting, another group of “at-large”
residents was approved. “We’re asking each subgroup to do a particular exercise,” Kunz said, referring to the AHP, an analytical
mathematical model used by the committee he cochaired that finally resulted in voters approving the purchase of City Hall.
“The model isn’t perfect and doesn’t prevent subjective inputs,
but ensures they are consistently processed,” he said of the AHP.
In fact, how the five intersection alternatives (No Build, Expanded Signal, Quadrant, Roundabout and One-Way Couplet) and
the six criteria (land use compatibility, traffic operations, safety,
nonmotorized traffic, physical impacts and implementation) are
prioritized determines what the preferred alternative is.
Judy Lockhart said if the No-Build option has been ruled out.
“We don’t really have freedom of choice if we have to do something.”
Kunz told Valley Times that he has met with eight of a total of
10 stakeholder subgroups about the prioritization exercise (i.e., to
prioritize the criteria and the performance of each intersection alternative on each criterion).
ITD offers user-friendly annual report
BOISE — The Idaho Transportation Department says its goal
of greater transparency and accountability took a significant step
forward with release of a simplified and condensed four-page annual report of the department’s activities this year.
The new citizen-oriented format is more visually appealing.
The report includes a transportation overview, department accomplishments and performance measures, financial information, revenue trends and future focus areas. The report has been submitted
for a certificate of excellence by the Association of Government
Accountants.
Certificates are granted to entities that prepare and distribute
high-quality citizen-centric reports incorporating the program’s
high standards of content, visual appeal, readability, distribution
and timeliness.
“The annual report reflects the accomplishments of ITD as the
department pursues the goals of safety, mobility and economic
opportunity for Idaho road users and taxpayers,” said ITD Director Brian W. Ness.
“It showcases ITD’s efforts to connect with and be accountable to Idaho’s citizens and leaders, to improve transparency around
financial and operational performance, to continually improve in
the areas of maintenance and operations, and to be innovative in
our approaches. Improvements at ITD have had a direct and positive impact on the users of the transportation system.”
“Not to be overlooked, my favorite part of this report is the
pictures,” said Charlene McArthur, Chief Administrative Officer.
“In these photos is the story of ITD’s span of regional impact
throughout the state, the diversity of our services, the intensity of
our challenges and the commitment of our people.”
ITD’s 2014 achievements include creating the nation’s first
winter-maintenance performance indicator, dramatic improvements
in roadway safety, cost- and time-saving innovations and earning
more awards last year from the American Association of Transportation and Highway Officials than any state in the association’s
100-year history.
ITD’s 2014 annual report is available on the department’s web
site at www.itd.idaho.gov. It is listed under Publications and the
2014 Annual Report link.
December 22, 2014
Valley Times
Page 9
Free parenting classes start January 28
at the Meridian Library District
Ken Clifford retires after 27 years as
Les Bois Credit Union CEO
By Megan Egbert, Youth Services Manager
At Meridian Library District we realize that parenting can be
rewarding, fulfilling and at times, very challenging. In order to
support the ongoing education of parents in our community, we
are offering free parenting classes starting in January.
This eight-week session, which starts on January 28, focuses
on children nine months to five years old (the younger children
are, the easier it is for them to learn). By utilizing current research,
providing parents and caregivers with behavior management tools,
relationship building tools and ways to adjust these tools for
individual children’s personalities, parenting can get easier!
Parents and caregivers can use the information in this course
to help children learn to behave responsibly, deal with their own
difficult emotions, think ahead, make good decisions, cooperate,
feel capable and confident, build good relationships and respect
others and themselves.
The classes will also address specific issues of concern to
parents and caregivers and help sow seeds for school success,
minimizing behavior issues in the future and maintaining good
relationships through the teen and adult years.
If you would like to sign up to attend these parenting classes,
please visit www.mld.org and navigate to January 28 on the online calendar. You may also call the library for assistance at 8884451.
For 27 years, Les Bois Credit Union operated under the leadership of CEO Kenneth J. Clifford. On December 31, Ken is retiring.
An Idaho Native with a B.B.A. from Boise State University,
Ken has worked in the credit union industry for 38 years, with 30
of those in senior management. He led Les Bois’ growth from $6.4
million in assets with eight employees, one branch and 3,887 members to, at one time, $90 million in assets with 54 employees, seven
branches in five cities and over 11,000 members.
Under Ken’s leadership, Les Bois Credit Union evolved from
a single-sponsor credit union serving only employees of the Morrison-Knudsen Company to a community-based full-service financial institution serving all residents residing in Ada, Boise, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee and Valley counties. Ken also served on the
board of directors of two credit union service organizations
(CUSOs) that provide specialized services to credit unions that
enable them to better serve their member-owners. With his guidance, these CUSOs enhanced the overall success of the credit union
industry.
“Ken’s dedication and service are appreciated and we wish
him the very best in his well-deserved and hard-earned retirement,”
said a spokesperon.
Host your event at the
American Legion building!
• Christmas/Thanksgiving party
• Weddings/Anniversaries and Dances
• Retirement Parties
• Birthday Parties
Looking for a venue • Business Meetings
for your Holiday • Annual Seminars
• Professional Training
party?
Support the Ameri- • Organizational Dinners
can Legion veterans’ • Church Services
• Bazaars or Craft Shows
organization that sup- • Youth Organizations
ports our community. • Family Celebrations
Call 590-1710 for res- • Health Clinics
• Political Events
ervations.
• Fund Raisers
Megan Egbert
“For I have promises to
keep, and miles to go before I
sleep.” – Robert Frost
Rick Ritter, Rich Nesbit
speak at MDBA meeting
The MDBA is a local nonprofit organization created to
promote and assist in revitalizing downtown Meridian. Their
monthly meeting was held Friday with two guest speakers giving updates.
Rick Ritter shared information on New Ventures Lab on the
corner of Idaho Avenue and Meridian Road in the former City
Hall building. NVL will provide
a place where people and resources can work together to develop and grow business ideas.
It is currently in the renovation
stage with an opening date predicted for March-April 2015.
This concept will also provide
opportunities to develop partnerships and strategic advisors
to help businesses get established, an approach that begins
at the idea level.
The second guest speaker:
Rich Nesbit with the Meridian
Historic Preservation Committee who shared information on
the kickoff of a new credit
course offered to 3rd grade teachers in Meridian history. The
course will include tours, history
expert videos, lectures and more
and will begin in the summer of
2015.
Board member Callie Zamzow Novak, also a board member with the Meridian Downtown Development Corporation,
reported on the new branding
logo for Downtown Meridian. It
is in the final stage revision with
the branding campaign for
Downtown Meridian area starting in the first quarter of 2015.
The logo will be prominently
displayed and used for promoting and recognition of the Meridian downtown area.
For more information or to
become a member or friend of
the Meridian Downtown Business Association, call President
Joe Kozlowski at (208) 8592700.
Rick Ritter
Les Bois Credit Union is a community-driven financial cooperative serving the Counties of Ada, Boise, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, and
Valley, Idaho. It offers full-service banking products such as savings
and checking accounts, home loans, auto and personal loans, financial
planning, and more. It was formed in 1955, originally benefiting employees of the Morrison-Knudsen Company, and has gradually expanded
services to others since then. Les Bois Credit Union’s goal is to serve
communities throughout southwest Idaho by supporting local persons
and businesses with its products and services, and by contributing to
local nonprofits and community events through partnerships, volunteering and other collaborations.
From left, Ron Kulchak, Ken Clifford (seated), Chris Frye, Sam
Frye, Kathy Clifford, Larry Crockett at the Les Bois Credit
Union Employee and Volunteer Appreciation dinner held December 5, 2014.
‘There’s no business like Snowpark business’
See the Eagle council article on Page 13. (Photo: Anita Torres)
Page 10
Valley Times
December 22, 2014
MPD holds promotions, award ceremonies at City Council meeting
Receiving congratulations and awards from Chief Lavey and
Mayor de Weerd, from left, Officer Seth Washburn, Cpl. Terry
Hodges and Sgt. Stacy Arnold.
MPD trio’s quick response saves child
Officers promoted at the December 16th ceremony were, from left, Chris Figal, Rick Brockbank, Berle Stokes, Brandon Frasier and Mark Ford. Above photo shows officers after being
congratulated by Chief Jeff Lavey, far right.
A trio of Meridian Police Officers responded to a residence
call earlier this year in which a four-year-old boy was shot in the
head. “Their quick action in transporting him to a medical facility
resulted in saving his life,” said Chief Lavey, adding the boy is
slowly recovering in a Salt Lake City hospital. “We don’t thank
our men and women in public safety often enough,” said Mayor
de Weerd. “This was above and beyond the line of duty.”
Jason and Brin Coombs wield the oversized scissors at the December 18h ribbon cutting
sponsored by the Meridian Chamber of Commerce.
Renaissance Ranch Addiction Treatment Center now open
“We believe that true recovery includes spiritual healing” is the slogan at Renaissance Ranch
Addiction Treatment Center, now open for business at 1125 E. Pine Avenue east of downtown Meridian, phone 286-4274.
An alcohol and drug rehabilitation program centered around gospel principles and practices, Renaissance Ranch uses the traditional 12-step approach to treatment combined with gospel principles
as they relate to alcohol and drug addiction for a results-driven, faith-based rehabilitation program.
“We are an affordable program and accept more private insurance benefits,” said co-owner Jason
Coombs, who is a recovering alcoholic himself. “We offer free assessments and a lifetime contract
upon completion of the program.”
For more information, call the above number or e-mail jason at [email protected].
You may also visit www.idahoAddictionCenters.com.
Officer Taylor receives a framed certificate and congratulations from Mayor Tammy de Weerd.
Officer’s actions saves life of accident victim
At last Tuesday’s City Council meeting, Officer Shannon Taylor received a Life-Saving Award for her actions on November 11
that saved the life of a women injured in a motorcycle accident on
November 11th. She applied tourniquets to two victims who were
bleeding profusely.
Chief Lavey said the woman is “adamant” her life was saved
by Officer Shannon’s actions.
The Meridian Police
Department consists of 87
sworn officers and 28 civilian
staff. Chief Jeff Lavey invites
all readers to visit the
Department’s page on the
city’s web site, www.meridian
city.org, and to follow the
MPD on Facebook.
Found on the MPD Facebook page: “A nice citizen passed
this story on to us and we thought it would be nice to share.
The man was walking his son who is 5 or 6 to school when a
Meridian Police patrol car drove by. His son asked about the police car and dad explained we were there to protect and serve. Without missing a beat his son said, ‘Oh, from T-Rex’s, because they
have sharp teeth and tiny arms.’ His son went on to ask about ninjas
and Rhino’s as well and dad assured him we would take care of
them as well. So, great job! T-Rex’s are scary.”
December 22, 2014
Valley Times
Page 11
25-year MPD veteran Lt. John Overton recognized
Chief Jeff Lavey presented a special award on December 16 to Lt. John Overton, “our in-department historian” who joined the force on September 30, 1989.
For the past nine years, Lt. Overton has worked in Community Services and oversaw the transition from the city’s dog shelter when it was removed to make room for more
wastewater facilities on the west side of Ten Mile Road north of Ustick
Road. Earlier this year, the city closed the shelter and contracted with the
Idaho Humane Society.
Mayor Tammy de Weerd commended Overton for “making some tough
decisions, especially the change from animal control, with grace and sensitivity.”
Chief Lavey said in his early years with the department, Overton oversaw the hiring and processing of new personnel, including Lavey when he
started and in a way, Overton has come full circle in a quarter-century of
service in the profession of public safety. Overton is well-known in the community.
“Now he has a new role as an administrative lieutenant and is back to
doing backgrounds,” Lavey said.
MPD Lt. John Overton
600 South Rivershore #160
Eagle (HWY 44 at Eagle
Road)
939-6775
Store Hours
Tuesday-Friday 10:00 a.m.6:00 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday 10:00 a.m.3:00 p.m.
Oliveandvyne.com or Like us
on Facebook
The foundation of finance for business
• Year-End Planning / Tax Returns
• Complimentary Second Opinion
• Tax Analysis, Review and Advantages
• Bookkeeping and Accounting Services
• Annual Finance Planning
• CPA Services/ Audit
Contact our office – 208-947-2400
1850 N Lakes Place - Meridian ID 83646
Wielding the large scissors at the December 12th ribbon cutting is co-owner Alesa Lonseth.
In the background are several stainless steel barrels, each holding 31 gallons of fresh brew.
Slanted Rock Brewery celebrates two years in Meridian
The Meridian Chamber of Commerce sponsored a ribbon cutting on Friday, December 12th to
celebrate the two-year anniversary of the opening of Slanted Rock Brewery at 2374 Cinema Drive,
#100 (south of Overland Road, turn left on Millennium Way).
Co-owners Bob and Alesa Lonseth are involved in the chamber and the area. “We live in Meridian and like to support our community,” Alesa said.
“We are committed to brewing a wide variety of craft beers using only the finest ingredients
available,” said co-owner Alesa Lonseth, who is one of three original owners with husband Bob and
Vincent Melchior. “We are a small company built on dreams and hard work. We invite you to try our
beers in our tap room, which is available for private parties, and in restaurants and bars or in cans. So
come check us out.”
The taproom is open on Tuesday from 4:00-9:00 p.m.; on Friday from 2:00-10:00 p.m..; on Saturday from noon to 10:00 p.m.; and on Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. (closed Monday). Slanted
Rock employs three part-time bar staff or “beeristas” including Sean Pletcher, Megan Frickey and
Karina Leininger. Amy Wardle works full time in sales.
For more information, call 288-2192 or visit www.slantedrock.com.
Valley Times
Page 12
December 22, 2014
Movie Review: Wild starring Reese Witherspoon
fuzzypawzrescue
Mouser is a 4-5 year old male Domestic Short Hair who is a
real sweetie and loves to hang out with his people and chill. He is
loving, affectionate and independent, all at the same time. He enjoys
hanging out in someone’s lap but also loves lying in the sun while
he’s snoozing. This boy does really well with dogs (he has lived
with three); if they step out of line, he will bat at them. The dogs
sure know who the real boss is and everybody is happy. Mouser
likes to play now and again but is not what you would consider a
high-energy cat. He will be a great companion for almost anyone.
Mouser is neutered and current on his shots. If Mouser sounds like
a good fit for you, fill out the application for him at http://
fuzzypawzrescue.com/adopt/adoption-application-2/ and his foster
mom will get back to you as soon as possible. Mouser’s adoption
fee is $10.
My name is Pascal. I am a 2-year-old Maltese/Poodle who is
looking for a new home. Don’t judge me on my haircut; a sweet
lady named Ellie (my groomer) had to shave me pretty close because I was covered in dirty, matted fur. I’m looking for a family
that will let me lie in their lap, give me lots of attention, buy me
some toys, play with me, make sure I get groomed regularly, take
me on walks and let me come with them when they go places. I
know my basic commands and am house trained. I will play nicely
with your other dogs. I will keep you warm and make you smile! I
do have to ‘fess up to my few bad habits. I can get a bit jealous of
other people/dogs when I’m sitting on your lap and will give a
growl; just put me on the floor and I remember that I’m supposed
to share. I also tend to jump up on people and put my mouth on
them when I am excited (I just love people)! If you will work with
me, I know I can learn to stop this behavior. I should also mention
that I’m not a huge fan of little children; I don’t want to live with
any under the age of 12. I’m also very afraid of men and would
prefer a household without them; I’ve been trying to overcome my
fear but so far it hasn’t worked. If you can offer me a loving home,
fill out an adoption application here: http://fuzzypawzrescue.com/
Mouser
Pascal
adopt/adoption-application-2/.
My adoption fee is $150; I’m
neutered, vaccinated and have a
microchip.
With the dissolution of her marriage and the death of her
mother, Cheryl Strayed has lost all hope. After years of reckless,
destructive behavior, she makes a rash decision. With absolutely
no experience and driven only by sheer determination, she hikes
1,100 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, alone.
The movie is based on the
book Wild: From Lost to Found,
written by Strayed and published by Knopf in 2012.
Thomas Sadoski plays the
movie’s male lead, the woman’s
ex-husband who cares for her
despite her infidelities. But at
two hours in length, this film
lacks the punch of cinematography you would expect from
the magnificant landscapes
Strayed traverses and any discernible message.
What does she learn? Isn’t
there some deep spiritual message that comes to her along the Meridian Wildlife Sightings
way? Apparently not. There are
by Larry Woodard
plenty of uses of the F word and
Avoid ‘stoned’
abundant references to her body
Canada geese
odor that this aging reviewer
found not only unnecessary but
Meridian cornfields in the
offensive.
fall are a destination center for
They certainly don’t migrating Canada geese.
Not only do you see their Vmake movies like they used
shaped flocks flying around the
to, do they? – FT
city, but you have a rare opporLooking for a pet to join
tunity to see hundreds of geese
your family? Visit a local shelter, where you’ll find many
feeding in the newly harvested
adoptable, adorable animals
corn fields. One thing you
needing a loving home.
should avoid is driving for any
distance under one of these flying V’s, because you will invariably be forced to go to the nearest car wash by your wife.
The geese do not fly in a
V-shaped formation for aerodynamic reasons, but to avoid the
bird ahead of them who lacks
any sense of decency while
flying...probably summered in
Washington, where smoking pot
is legal and it screws up your
mind.
Canada goose in flight
(photo: Trevor Richard Moore)
59 N. Five Mile Rd.
Boise
378-9887
210 Fairview Avenue
Meridian
888-4145
3321 S. Federal Way
Boise
342-9270
Vietnam Veterans
Chapter 1025
22 E. Broadway
American Legion Hall
Meridian
Meeting time 7:00 p.m.
First Tuesday of the month
Spouses are invited, too.
Valley Times
December 22, 2014
Page 13
Around the World: Pompeii in southern Italy
By Betty Kusler
Pompeii is the city “frozen” in ash in AD 79 and preserved beneath volcanic lava until 1748,
when it emerged from its long entombment to the wonderment of the rest of the world.
The catastrophe that overcame the Bay of Naples started in the morning of August 24th of that
long-ago year. A noise like a tremendous thunderclap rolled down from Mt. Vesuvius. The entire top
of the mountain had blown apart and was spewing a dark cloud of dust and flames.
Soon a storm of rock and ash descended from the darkened sky and a surge of molten lava called
pyroplasty headed rapidly toward the valley below. Pompeii’s citizens who had not fled when the
rumblings began several days earlier were caught in a death trap. The flood of ash soon changed into
small volcanic rocks mixed with larger chunks of pumice. The stench of sulfur pervaded the entire
city, reaching to every street, building and corner in which people were hiding, including lower
regions and basements.
Two days later, the smoke and dust clouds began to clear and the sun to shine again, but Pompeii
was covered with a gray mass and before long by new grass as time passed. More than 15 centuries
later, treasure seekers began to show an interest and inventors to fund archeological digs. In 1738,
royally commissioned diggers began to uncover a villa.
The findings showed well-preserved murals and artwork, vestiges of walls and remnants of buildings from residences to brothels and even the first coliseum from ancient Rome. There’s no other
place quite like this, with the ashen coverings of bodies of people and animals surviving long after
the insides perished, rotted and disappeared.
Soon a network for marketing recovered items was established and thrives to this day. Pompeii is
one of the most popular tourist destinations, just as originally it was a retreat for the upper classes of
Rome. Today some 2.5 million visitors every year see the recovered ruins and remains for themselves.
One group of original residents of Pompeii were discovered to have been surprised by the sudden onslaught of death while they were gathered for a funereal meal. There was also a sculpture more
than 100 feet high painted in shades of red.
We were there. We could hardly believe how well built the buildings were and how well laid the
streets were, with room for travel and to wash away trash. The part that amazed me the most was “the
mall,” somewhat similar to the shopping centers we patronize today, with one wall adjacent to the
other and the sign proclaiming the name of the shop above the main door.
After 250 years of more excavation, Pompeii has again risen from the ashes of Mt. Vesuvius to
provide us with insights into municipal life some 2,000 years ago around the time of Christ.
Critics, defenders square off on Eagle Snowpark noise issue
By Anita Torres
At last Tuesday’s Eagle City Council meeting, Jonathan Marter read a letter with complaints on
the sound emitting from the new Eagle Snowpark.
“Our home backs up next to the Eagle Sports Complex,” he said. “I queried what type of neighbor the development would be.” He said he did not expect to hear the sound of industrial equipment
in his home running late in the night and well into the morning. He also mentioned there were
privacy violations from the halogens lights that face his home. “We cannot think, we cannot sleep
when these blowers are running at night,” he said. He also said the snow blowers sound like a plane
taking off and have caused him and his wife three sleepless nights.
Sam Sandmeyer showed a video of the Gateway Parks Snow event to emphasize the commodity
that it adds to Eagle. “This video has gotten over 3,000 views from all around the world,” she said,
and thanked the City of Eagle for allowing the park to continue.
Glenn Barrett said, “I live just down from the park. I really disagree with the fact that the snow
cannons, snow engines, snow machines, sound like a jet plane taking off. He said you can’t hear the
blowers down the road in your car and it would be surprising for one to hear it inside their homes.
Garrett Kerr said, “I live in the same neighborhood as the gentleman that got up that described
the snow machines like a jet engine taking off. I live to where my home is to the face of Gateway
Park.” He said he and his wife went around their home opening doors and windows to try and find the
noise issue that was being presented, and they could not. He also thanked Eagle for allowing them to
have the park. “I would hope that we could compromise and find a solution.”
Jamie Myers said, “I’m a former aerial ski team member” who had to move to Utah to pursue her
dream in skiing and has moved back to Eagle and “I just wanted to say thank you for the park.”
A Boise resident said, “All this talk of airports, just keep it down” He held up a sign that said “I
live next to the airport, what’s your problem?”
Matthew May said, “I did go out at 11 o’clock on Sunday evening to unplug my Christmas lights
and let my dogs out and I did hear a sound that I never heard before... and I was finally able to
identify it as the snow guns that were blowing. It was loud. As a factual matter, the snow guns were
loud; their decibels fluctuated.” He said Marter was not alone in what he heard.
Jackie Kerr said, “We live right across from that old Lazy J tavern so you could imagine how
close we are to the park.” She said she is very sensitive to noise and has not heard any snow blowers,
even driving by in her car. In response to the the halogen lights, “The lights do face upward towards
the hill,” she said.
Councilman Stan Ridgeway responded to the public comments by stating he can sometimes hear
the traffic on Highway 44 from where he lives, although he does not reside next to it.
“I don’t doubt what anybody is saying here but sounds do travel at different speeds,” he said,
suggesting that both sides of the issue could be correct.
December 26 DIALOGUE features singer/songwriter Eilen Jewell
In an hourlong special to cap off 2014 and celebrate the holiday season, DIALOGUE host Marcia
Franklin interviews Idaho singer/songwriter Eilen Jewell. Known colloquially as the “Queen of the
Minor Key,” Jewell has earned international acclaim for her Americana-style music.
The show airs on Friday, December 26 at 7:30 p.m. MT/PT and repeats on Sunday, December 28
at 5:00/4:00 p.m. MT/PT.
Jewell talks with Franklin about why she moved back to Boise, where she grew up; how she
defines and crafts her music; and what’s next for her and The Eilen Jewell Band, which includes her
husband, drummer Jason Beek.
(Continued in next columns, across at right)
Victims of Pompeii show how the outer shell of ash that hardened
into clay preserved the outlines of the bodies. (www.
nationalgeograpic.com)
Helping Hispanic students prepare for college
(NAPSI) – There is good news for Hispanic parents whose
children are approaching college age. A new PSA campaign provides parents with access to the resources they need to help their
children prepare, plan, and pay for college.
The campaign, featuring actors Adam Rodriguez and Edward
James Olmos, and Univision co-anchors Jorge Ramos and María
Elena Salinas, is built around a series of public service announcements (PSAs) designed to send parents to HSF.net, the website of
the Hispanic Scholarship Fund. Founded in 1975, the Hispanic
Scholarship Fund provides scholarships and related support services to Latino students.
By visiting the web site, parents can find resources and tips to
help their children navigate the college application process and
access the resources and support needed to excel in their studies
and graduate.
“With Latinos representing one in four people in America under age 18, it is more important than ever for HSF to provide scholarships and services to students, as well as provide resources for
their parents,” said Fidel A. Vargas, President & CEO, Hispanic
Scholarship Fund. “Their success in college is more important than
ever, and this is our opportunity to support Latino students to reach
college, and make the most of their college experience. We hope
this campaign will equip even more Hispanic parents and students
with the tools they need to prepare, plan, and pay for college.”
At present, Hispanics account for 19 percent of all college students aged 18-24, up from 12 percent in 2008. What’s more, 69
percent of Hispanic graduates are now going directly to college
after graduating high school, a rate that is higher than that of the
general population. This underscores a need for more information
and increased access to resources.
Said Ad Council President and CEO Lisa Sherman, “Hispanic
parents have a wonderful opportunity to shape the future of their
children and to give them the chance to pursue a higher education
and the opportunities that go with it. These PSAs encourage and
inspire action. We believe they will make a huge impact.”
The new PSAs were created pro bono by ad agency The Vidal
Partnership. For more information about the Hispanic Scholarship
Fund, visit HSF.net.
To learn more about the Ad Council and the programs it supports, visit www.adcouncil.org.
Eastern Oregon University announces fall term dean’s list
LA GRANDE, OR – Eastern Oregon University has named
518 students to the dean’s list for fall term 2014. Qualifying students
achieve and maintain a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a
4.0 scale while completing a minimum of 12 hours of graded
coursework for the duration of the term.
The following area students earned distinction:
• Haley Hill of Eagle
• Bobbi Sumpter of Eagle
• Kaitlyn Reynolds of Meridian
• Logan Deroin of Meridian..
The couple just welcomed baby daughter Mavis, named after
gospel singer Mavis Staples. Eilen and Jason are also in a gospel
band, The Sacred Shakers. Jewell talks with Franklin about why
she’s attracted to gospel music and performs a song she wrote for
her new daughter.
The program, taped at AudioLab Recording Studios in Garden
City, also includes footage of Jewell and her band performing at
the Sapphire Room at the Riverside Hotel, also in Garden City.
One of Jewell’s new songs, “My Hometown,” is about Boise.
Valley Times
Page 14
December 22, 2014
NASCAR September tour date set for Meridian Speedway
By Tyler Schild
MERIDIAN – The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing is coming to Meridian Speedway. On September 5, 2015 NASCAR will roar into Idaho as the K&N Pro Series West makes a stop
under the big yellow water tower for the inaugural Idaho 208. This will be the first NASCAR sanctioned touring event held at the quarter-mile Speedway.
NASCAR has eyed the expanding Northwest market, especially the Treasure Valley, for some
time. It was the investment in Speedway facilities that finally prompted NASCAR to reach out to
Meridian Speedway.
“The improvements made to Meridian Speedway have made it a must race for NASCAR,” said
one series insider.
The NASCAR K&N Pro Series has been both a stepping stone for up-and-coming racers and a
playground for established top-tier competitors to get back to racing basics. Competitors such as
Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Darrel ‘Bubba’ Wallace Jr. made appearances in the K&N Pro Series in 2014
to hone their skills at the grass roots level.
Not only does the K&N Pro Series provide edge-of-your-seat, door-to-door action; it is also a
training ground for future NASCAR stars. Local racer Hannah Newhouse has raced with the K&N
Pro Series since 2012 and sees the experience she’s gaining as vital to her own career.
Newhouse is part of NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program, which offers minority drivers the
opportunity to display their skills and earn the attention of higher-tier teams. No one has made better
use of the Drive for Diversity opportunity than Sprint Cup standout Kyle Larson, who used his ride
to claim the 2012 K&N Pro Series championship. This catapulted Larson to NASCAR Nationwide
and Sprint Cup Series stardom the next year.
Showcasing local talent on a national stage was a
driving force in Meridian Speedway’s decision to host
the Idaho 208.
“It’s a great platform for our local guys to show
their talent in town instead of having to travel,” said
Meridian Speedway managing partner Adam Nelson.
Don’t miss your chance to watch the future stars
of NASCAR hit your home track. A limited number of
tickets to the Idaho 208 are available. To secure your
seat, log onto www.meridian speedway.com and purchase your advance tickets.
Readers. send your individual and team sports news to editor@ valleytimesidaho.com. Send
photos (in color or black and white) as separate attachments in jpg. Deadline is every Friday at noon
for the following Monday’s issue unless other arrangements are made in advance. Also, request
hard copies or an electronic/digital version for your friends and family members.
Valley Times urges readers to consider adopting a shelter pet. These adorable animals have been
spayed or neutered, vaccinated and socialized to become a new and instant part of your family. It’s
easy and affordable to complete the adoption process. We recom-mend Fuzzypawzrescue to help you
through each step; see Page 12. You may also contact the Meridian Valley Humane Soci-ety and/or
the Idaho Humane Society for opportunities.
2014 Medicare Advantage
and Supplement Plans
Authorized to offer: Blue Cross, Regence, Pacific Source, Select Health and United HealthCare/AARP Individual and Family
Insurance. Certified in the Exchange. Call Bruce Altig, Broker, at
(208) 287-5475 or e-mail [email protected] to see if you
are eligible for a federal subsidy.
www.InsurersOfIdaho.com
Girls Basketball
Eagle 52, Capital 46
Eagle
14
17
11
10
52
Capital
12
12
12
10
46
Eagle (7-3, 4-3 5A SIC) - Abby Mangum 13 points, Kylee
Coffin 5, Jenny Stevens 9, Cassidy Tiegs 14, Lauren Abel 4, Katelyn
Murray 7. Rebound leader: Stevens 11. Assist leader: Coffin 3.
Capital (3-7, 3-5 5A SIC) - Hannah Johnson 3 points, Grace
Jacobsen 1, Beverly Slater 4, Brynn Bittman 3, Yesenia Benbinelli
16, Elly Johnson 1, Emilie Eckhart 18. Rebound leader: Eckhart
11. Assist leader: Eckhart 4.
Rocky Mountain 56, Boise 46
Boise
8
15
7
16
46
Rocky Mtn. 18
11
18
9
56
Boise (6-2) - Mandy Simpson 17, Isabelle Hadden 8, Hanna
Orton 6, Megan Lee 5, Kirsten Robinson 4, Laura Irish 4, Audrey
Dingel 2. Rebound leader: Orton 11. Assist leader: Simpson 4.
Rocky Mountain (6-3) - Allie Clegg 21, Maya Rodgers 11,
Rachel Fielder 10, Carlee Moser 9, Maddie Hall 3, Maddi Thompson 2. Rebound leader: Rodgers 8. Assist leader: Clegg 4.
Mountain View 81, Timberline 28
Timberline
Mtn. View
9
28
5
25
9
16
5
12
-
28
81
Timberline - Madeline Stranzl 4, Carlee Frank 3, Emery
Bashaw 2, Sarah Briggs 4, Courtney Hurlbut 3, Jordan Adams 7,
Lilia Hunt 5. Rebound leaders: Hurlbut, Aubree Gonser 5. Assist
leader not provided.
Mountain View - Alyssa Case 5, Abby Kresier 15, Drew Pikes
4, Kaylee Olson 3, Devenee Villareal 9, Destiny Slocum 23, Adriana
Vickery 2, Renee Routhier 11, Audra Perry 9. Rebound leader:
Case 5. Assist leader: Slocum 3.
ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW
Located near the Interstate at 953 S. Industry Way in Meridian (east of WinCo)
888-9111
HOWARD R. FOLEY
MARK S. FREEMAN
PATRICK J. GEILE
LEAH F. SHOTWELL
ROBIN M. LONG
MATTHEW G. BENNETT
LAW FIRM PRACTICE AREAS
• Bankruptcy • Employment Law
• Real Estate • Business Formation
• Contracts • Wills & Trusts
• Criminal Defense • Banking & Finance
• Condemnation • Accidents & Injuries
• Divorce & Child Custody
• Products Liability • Collections
• Corporations & LLCs • Discrimination Claims
• Complex Litigation • Estate Planning
• Construction & Development
December 22, 2014
Valley Times - Prep Sports
Page 15
Girls Basketball (continued)
Boys Basketball
Centennial 50, Meridian 38
Rocky Mountain 41, Centennial 30
Centennial
11
17
13
9
50
Meridian
5
10
11
12
38
Centennial - T. Williams 6, R. Koetter 8, A. Carlson 4, M.
Ingersoll 4, L. Brocke 2, A. Tia 4, D. Williams 20, A. Curry 2.
Rebound leader: Williams 6. Assist leader: Brocke 3.
Meridian - Victoria Cerda 2, Shelbie Martinez 13, Jessica
Watson 1, Kiley Barber 6, Isabelle DiMattio 1, Carli Rice 6, Jaynee
Taufoou 9. Rebound leader: Taufoou 9. Assist leaders: Watson,
Taufoou 2.
Prep Wrestling
Rocky Mtn. 5
8
15
13
41
Centennial
2
3
7
18
30
Rocky Mountain - Treighton Shepherd 5 points, Tanner
Hamilton 2, Logan Skurdal 9, Zach Ludwig 2, Jacob Erickson 3,
Blair Moore 2, Kolby Lee 8, Brady Faigl 10. Rebound leaders:
Skurdal 5, Lee 5. Assist leader: Shepherd 5.
Centennial - Ian Durupt 5 points, Eric Brocke 8, Kendall
Williams 3, Brooks King 6, Kenton Bartlett 2, Taylor Wallick 6.
Rebound leader: Connor Desaulniers 5. Assist leader: Wallick 2.
Meridian 45, Capital 30
Meridian 58, Boise 38
98 lb., Draco Lopez, C, dec.
Trevor Ball 10-8; 106, Mysun
Mather, C, pinned Miguel
Mares at 0:37; 113, Sean Ferguson, C, tf. Simeon Howie 19-4;
120, Jacob Garrison, M, md.
Arthur Ferguson 12-1; 126,
Matthew Twait, M, pinned
Tnner Hahn at 3:22; 132, Audtin
Iorga, C, md. Zac Ruiz 17-7;
138, Tanner Wiese, M, md.
Trevor Thiel 9-0; 145, David
Jenkins-Griffin, M, md. Tyrus
Newell 14-0; 152, Mason Smith,
M, ponned Braedon Silvers at
5:30; 160, Hayes Newton, M,
pinned Connor Hayes at 4:47;
170, Kule McCullough, C,
pinned Ric Fuentes at 1:57; 182,
Luke Combe, M, pinned Colby
Sage att 3:50; 195, John
Hensley, M, pinned Braydon
Ball at 1:41; 220, Owen Midkiff,
C, DQ over Randall Hooker;
and 285, Colton Smilie, M, dec.
Lennin Rodriguez 5-2.
Meridian
10
15
17
16
58
Boise
11
9
10
8
38
Meridian - (5-0, 3-0 5A SIC) - Axel Mpoyo 13, Trenton Hope
6, Tyus Archuleta 1, Hunter Graefe 5, Kyle Burch 6, Kyler Harmon
15, Blake McFadden 2, Noah Baxter 10. Rebound leader: Bzxter
8. Assist leaders: Archuleta, Graefe 3.
Boise (2-3, 1-2 5A SIC) - Alema Lutu 1, Hassani Mberwa 10,
Paul Pennington 4, Logan Miller 7, Evan Henning 12, Dylan
McGee 4. Rebound leader: Miller 5. Assist leaders: Mberwa, Miller
1.
Cole Valley 58, Payette 19
Payette
4
4
7
4
19
Cole Valley
22
12
19
5
58
Payette - Robyn King 5 points, Krystal Benitez 2, Sophie
McGrath 4, Shiloh Robinson 5, Natalie Gerdes 2, Rosa Ceballas
1. Rebound leader: Robinson 8. Assist leader: King, Benitez 1.
Cole Valley (6-3) - Katelin Baker 2 points, Paige Albers 2,
Madison Holly 24, Miriam Edes 4, Sarah McClure 8, Lindy
Westendorf 7, Holly Golenor 8, Julia Branahl 3. Rebound leader:
McClure 12. Assist leader: Edes 3.
Rocky Mountain 54, Vallivue 46
Rocky Mtn.
17
15
14
8
54
Vallivue
20
12
5
9
46
Rocky Mountain - Maddie Hall 2, Allie Clegg 6, Carlee Moser
9, Maddy Smith 9, Maya Rodgers 18, Rachel Fielder 6, Maddi
Thompson 4. Rebound leader: Rodgers 8. Assist leaders: Clegg,
Rodgers 1.
Vallivue - Hollie Raymond 5 points, Rainy Robinson 3, Kacie
Kubosumi 3, Tori Morrison 2, Candida Eldridge 6, Ashlyn Woodruff 25, Kayla Glaser 2. Rebound leader: Eldridge 5. Assist leaders: Dani Cichosz, Kubosumi 1.
Cole Valley 42, Marsing 31
CVC
9
8
9
16
42
Marsing
8
2
13
8
31
Cole Valley (7-3, 4-0 2A SIC) - Madison Holly 20, Miriam
Tiegs 3, Sarah McClure 7, Lindy Westerdorf 6, Holly Golenor 3,
Danika Langley 1, Julia Branahl 4. Rebound leader: Westendorf 6.
Assist leaders: Holly, West 2.
Marsing (5-3, 1-2 2A WIC) - Emerson Sauer 4, Emily Tank
2, Shannon Clover 13, Shelby Dines 6, Mckenzie Farrens 4, Destiny Reynolds 2. Rebound leader: Reynolds 6. Assist leader:
Emerson 2.
Eagle 71, Mountain View 69 (OT)
Eagle 14
14
17
13
11
58
MV
6
17
19
18
9
38
Eagle (4-1, 2-1 5A SIC) - Leavitt 15 points, Biera 2, Lodge 6,
Labrador 8, VanAlfen 3, Clark 7, Fergerson 16, Smith 12. Rebound
and assist statistics not provided.
Mountain View- Howard 14 points, Farris 2, Thacker 19,
Gibson Perry 2, Lyons 8, Godusevic 10, Hastings 2. Rebound and
assist statistics not provided.
North Star Charter, 67, Cole Valley 56
NSC
16
16
25
10
67
CVC
12
20
9
15
56
North Star Charter (2-2, 1-0 2A WIC) - G. Anderson 21
points, Coutts, W. Anderson 4; Azentes 6, Dukelow 15, Berger 7,
Winegar 4. Rebound leaders: Berger 7, Szentes 7. Assist leader:
Berger 6.
Cole Valley Christian (0-6, 0-1 2A WIC) - Ross 7 points,
Hester 4, Sherman 6, Hohenshelt 7, Frame 5, Hengst 12, Lamb 2,
DeBleick 8, M. Evarts 5. Rebound and assist statistics not provided.
Speech Impediments: How one Christian student’s ordeal inspired others
By Chris Polts (from Faith & Justice, Vol. VII, Issue 3)
After he dared to defend same-sex marriage in a Los Angeles
City College classroom, the teacher made Jonathan Lopez’ life a
living hell. So the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) connected
him with David Hacker, senior legal counsel and director of the
ministry’s University Project, created to defend the legal rights
and religious freedom of Christian students all over America. David
sent demand letters to LACC, detailing what had been happening
in Professor Matteson’s class and urging administrators to correct
the problem.
“In the letter the dean sent back to us,” David says, “she said
that other students had been offended by what Jonathan said regarding marriage and by his Christian beliefs. She wasn’t saying
that what the professor did was wrong.” In effect, he says, she was
“justifying the professor’s actions” while ignoring Jonathan’s constitutional right to free speech.
ADF filed a federal lawsuit against the college, its administrators, and Professor Matteson, asking the court to put a stop to the
instructor’s behavior, and address the college’s unconstitutional
speech code that facilitated that behavior.
“The college actually had a policy that said, ‘If you believe
what you are going to say is going to be offensive to someone,
don’t say it,’” David says. “So the college was already telling students to self-censor their speech, and that’s what caused this whole
incident.
“Policies like this are on the books on college campuses all
across the country,” David says, “and just the fact that they are on
the books, and in student handbooks, chills student speech. Students read, ‘If you think you’re going to say something offensive,
don’t say it,’ and then they self-censor their speech. They don’t
share their ideas. They don’t feel free to do so.”
ADF asked the federal court to block LACC from enforcing
its speech policy, and the court did. The college appealed that decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, which
ruled that the connection between the speech policy and what hap-
pened to Jonathan wasn’t sufficiently clear to justify compelling the college to change its
speech code. ADF asked the
U.S. Supreme Court to review
that decision, but the high court
declined.
That wasn’t the end of the
case, though. ADF went back to
the district court, asking it to rule
in Jonathan’s favor and compel
Professor Matteson to stop his
outrageous behavior in the classroom, and the court did just that.
It entered a judgment against
Matteson for abusing his
student’s free speech rights, and
awarded Jonathan damages for
the violation of those rights.
“I was pleased with that,”
Jonathan says, “even though it
was never about the money. It
was more about defending my
faith. I was really glad that there
was acknowledgement that the
instructor did do wrong, that he
did violate my rights … and that
other believers can speak up
now, and feel comfortable about
speaking up.”
“Jonathan’s case had farreaching effects,” David says.
“It was covered in the national
media, (and) a lot of people paid
attention because the facts were
so egregious. Certainly other schools noticed the inherent wrong
in a professor singling out a student just because of his faith, and
punishing him.” The incident and ensuing lawsuit also caught the
attention of other college students nationwide, many of whom contacted ADF with their own experiences of persecution for their
faith and denial of their constitutionally protected speech and religious freedom.
“We’re able to tell Jonathan’s story to those students,” David
says, “and how he stood up boldly to protect his religious liberty
and defend his faith, and those students have been encouraged and
are more willing to stand up for their rights.”
Despite all the attention his case received, though, Jonathan
studiously avoided the limelight, refusing all requests for interviews, from the school newspaper to national cable news outlets.
“I didn’t want my face out there,” he says, “because it wasn’t
about me. I wasn’t trying to get attention or anything like that. I
just needed to speak up for my faith.
“Everyone has the right to say, ‘I don’t believe in God,’ so
why don’t I have the right to say, ‘I believe in God?’ I felt that this
is something God put in me to do, and I did it for Him. I knew in
my heart that it had nothing to do with me.”
Page 16
MPD Supervisor’s Log
Friday, December 12th, 2014
• Unattended death, 500 block of W.
Carlton Avenue.
• Possession of paraphernalia, Locust
Grove & Overland roads.
• Vehicular burglary, 3200 block of E.
Louise.
• Leaving the scene of a crash, 1400
block of E. Locust View Lane.
• Petit theft, 2800 block of N. Eagle
Road.
• Stalking/trespassing, 100 block of E.
Central Drive.
• Garrett McCoy, 32, was arrested for
possession of drug paraphernalia and destruction of evidence.
• Erin Copenhaver, 42, was arrested for
domestic battery.
• Battery/trespassing, 700 block of W.
Overland Road.
• Chelsey Snider, 28, was arrested for
DUI/2nd offense and resisting & obstructing.
• Timothy Dacey, 43, was arrested on
a warrant.
• Disturbance, 100 block of W. Pine
Avenue.
Saturday, December 13th, 2014
• Vehicular burglary, 700 block of S.
Stratford.
• Jaquon Harris, 24, was arrested for
domestic battery, as a fugitive to Idaho and
for possession of drug paraphernalia.
• Possession of a controlled substance,
Locust Grove and Sagemoor.
• Residential burglary, 2700 block of
S. Hibernation Place.
• Erick Bail, 30, was arrested on a warrant and for petit theft.
• Residential burglary, 2700 block of
S. Hibernation Place.
• Domestic battery, 1600 block of N.W.
7th Street.
Sunday, December 14th, 2014
• Miranda Stokes, 19, was arrested on
a warrant.
• Disturbance, 1800 block of E. Griffon Street and in the 700 block of W. Cagney.
• Michael Neal, 20, was arrested on a
warrant.
• Vehicular burglary, 2800 block of E.
Overland Road.
Monday, December 15th, 2014
• Grand theft, 2100 block of E.
Katelyn.
• Erin Kelly, 20, was arrested on two
warrants. Brogan Shurtz, 19, was arrested
on three warrants.
• Robert Allen, 59, was arrested for
domestic battery.
• Juvenile beyond control and possession of marijuana, 2300 block of N. Linder
Road.
• Protective custody hold, 700 block
of W. Hartack Court.
• Grand theft, 700 block of E. Fairview
Avenue.
• Unattended death, 1700 block of E.
Summer Ridge.
• Attempted burglary, 3100 block of N.
Betula.
• Vehicular burglary, 2700 block of S.
Hibernation.
Tuesday, December 16th, 2014
• Vehicular burglary, 3200 block of E.
Louise Drive.
• Recovered stolen vehicle, 1000 block
of S. Progress Avenue.
• Jeff Tillman, 23, was arrested for
DWP, giving false information to law enforcement and on a warrant.
• Domestic - verbal, 1600 block of
N.W. 8th Street, in the 3100 block of E.
Fairview Avenue, in the 2700 block of N.
Caribou and in the 1100 block of E. Summer Falls.
• Nicholas Carney, 24, was arrested for
petit theft.
• Kenneth Dwyer, 22, was arrested for
petit theft.
Wednesday, December 17th, 2014
• Residential burglary, 700 block of W.
Alden Drive.
• James Moriarty, 18, was arrested for
battery.
• Protective custody hold, 800 block
of W. Pine Avenue.
• Leaving the scene of an accident,
1300 block of N.W. 2nd Street.
• Injury traffic accident, N. Eagle Road
(Continued on next page, across at right).
Valley Times
The City of Eagle has several opportunities for individuals to serve.
Priority is given to Eagle residents.
• The Transportation Committee has an opening. Priority will be
given to applicants with professional expertise in traffic engineering,
planning, road construction and residential or commercial development
and who understand the banking or financial field. This is a two-year
term. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday at 4:00 p.m.
• The Eagle Arts Commission has an opening for a three-year term.
Meetings are held on the second Tuesday at 8:30 a.m.
• The Historic Preservation Commission has two openings for applicants with an interest, competence or knowledge in history or historic
preservation. Experience is preferred in the disciplines of architecture,
history, architectural history, urban planning, archaeology, engineering,
law or other historic preservation-related areas. Appointees will serve
five-year terms. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday at 6:00 p.m.
• The Industrial Development Corporation Board has an opening for
a two-year term. The Board encourages economic development to help
provide jobs in the city via tax-exempt bond financing for eligible economic development projects that constitute “manufacturing.” The Board
meets annually, typically in December.
If interested in one of the above appointments, complete a Request
for Consideration form available at www.cityofeagle.org and at the City
Clerk’s Office in City Hall, 660 E. Civic Lane and submit a letter of
interest. A resume or curriculum vitae are encouraged. Applications must
be received by the Clerk’s Office no later than 5:00 p.m on Monday,
February 2, 2015.
Superintendent-elect Ybarra names
Silva new Special Education director
(Boise) Idaho State Superintendent-elect of Public Instruction Sherri Ybarra has announced that Dr. Charlotte (Charlie) Silva
will join the Idaho State Department of Education administration
as the new Special Education Director on January 5, 2015. Dr.
Silva has worked as the Special Education Supervisor for the Boise
School District and has worked in education since 1984.
“The hiring of Dr. Silva demonstrates the commitment this
administration and I will make to all of Idaho students,” said Ybarra.
“Students who enter Idaho’s education system with special needs
face unique and difficult challenges every day. I believe Dr. Silva
is an education professional whose experience will make a considerable contribution for all our special needs students. We are excited to have her join the administration.”
Dr. Silva will work with Dr. Bonnie Gallant (current Special
Education Director) to ensure a smooth transition. Dr. Silva has
worked for students with exceptionalities in such capacities as a
consulting teacher, university professor and most recently, Special
Education supervisor for the Boise School District.
December 22, 2014
Legal Notice
INVITATION FOR BID
WATERLINE REPLACEMENT – LOCUST GROVE, BLACKROCK TO
REFLECTION RIDGE - CONSTRUCTION
CITY OF MERIDIAN
The City of Meridian is requesting sealed Bids for the Waterline Extension – Locust
Grove, Blackrock to Reflection Ridge – Construction project.Bids will be received by
the City of Meridian, Purchasing Department, at the City Hall Building located at 33 East
Broadway Avenue, Ste. 106, Meridian, Idaho83642, until 2:30 p.m., prevailing local time,
JANUARY8, 2014.
A complete bid packageis available at the City of Meridian Purchasing Department located at 33 East Broadway Avenue, Ste 106, Meridian, Idaho 83642.
Apre-bid meeting will be held on DECEMBER 30, 2014at 2:00 p.m. at Meridian City
Hall, Public Works Conference Room 2nd Floor, 33 E Broadway, Meridian, ID.
All questions concerning this Invitation for Bid or requests for additional information
should be directed to: Keith Wattsat (208) 489-0417.
DATED this 16thday of December, 2014
Keith Watts, Purchasing Manager
THE CITY of MERIDIAN, IDAHO
Run Dates: December 22, 2014 and December 29, 2014
Ada Community Library Victory
Branch has free programs in December
The Victory Branch at 10664 W. Victory Rd., Boise (corner of
Five Mile & Victory Rd.) has fun programs this December for a
mix of age groups as follows:
• Tuesday, December 9th, Thyme for Murder- Mystery Book
Group, 12:45-1:45 p.m.
• Wednesday, December 10th, Bridging Cultures LTAI- Leo
Africanus Book Talk, 6:30 p.m.
• Saturday, December 13th, CAT (Chaotic Acts of Theatre)
for the Holidays, 2:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, Decenber 17th, Steampunking: READ posters made in Style(s), 6:30 p.m.
• Friday, December 19th, Sack
of Stoats for the Holidays: Celtic
music, 6:30 p.m.
Check out the web site at
www.adalib.org/victory for more information or call 362-0181.
“Books are bright windows shining into souls.” – H.G. Wells
Study: Some toys are loud enough to Meridian Library offers free basic
classes for its adult patrons
‘shoot your ear out’ this holiday season computer
By Trisha Rhine
BOISE – Each year, Sight & Hearing Association representatives go shopping for toys that sound a little too loud for our young
ones. And this year, an astonishing 18 out of 20 toys they tested
with their sound meters — 90 percent — were loud enough (with
noise levels greater than 85 decibels) to cause permanent hearing
damage when operated at close range.
“Some of the most common toys for infants, toddlers, and adolescents are not only dangerous for their hearing but can actually
damage the hearing of adults, too, considering their noise levels,”
says Jacquie Elcox of Treasure Valley Hearing. “There aren’t a lot
of packages with adequate warnings, and the regulations for these
toys are pretty poorly written.”
Toys are required to meet standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials regarding sound-pressure levels, but
those standards aren’t always in touch with reality. For example,
regulations state that noise emitted from a children’s toy must not
exceed 85 decibels (dB) at 50 centimeters from the body — but 50
centimeters is longer than the average length of an adult’s arm,
creating a disconnect between the actual use of a toy and its rules
for production. Of the Sight & Hearing Association’s 20 noisiest
toys from 2014, 12 of them exceeded 94 dB at close range, with
four of them breaching 100 dB.
“When you consider how a child would actually play with a
toy, they generally hold it a lot closer to their body,” says Elcox.
“So how safe they are is really based on whether they’ll be interacting with and using the toy for an extended period of time or not.
We don’t want to suggest to parents that they return their child’s
gifts, but some of the loudest toys might be causing permanent
damage after only a few minutes of play.”
To avoid feeling like the Grinch who stole your child’s Christmas, use tape or glue to cover the speakers of your child’s loudest
toys. This will help mitigate the intensity of the sounds they make.
To see the full list of noisy toys, take a look at the Sight & Hearing
Association’s Facebook page, where they’ve published the results
of their study.
Upgrading your computer? Thinking about getting a new one?
Frustrated with the one you have now?
The Meridian Library District now offers a wide variety of
basic computer classes for adults. These classes are offered free of
charge to the general public with no registrations or signups
required.
Patrons may bring in their own laptop or borrow one of the
library’s. Classes are offered at different times each week and last
about an hour.
Keep in mind that we cannot fix your computer but would
love to help you learn more! To see a list of upcoming classes and
dates, stop by the Meridian Library on Cherry Lane to pick up a
catalog and schedule or visit the library’s web site at wwwmld.org.
The Meridian Library District also offers free one-on-one appointments for patrons who are unable or feel uncomfortable attending a computer class. In this one-on-one session, you will receive up to an hour of the library’s staff or volunteer’s undivided
attention to help you with a wide range of activities, the most popular of which are being able to download and use the library’s digital content on your personal device.
If you have any questions, contact Trisha Rhine via e-mail at
[email protected] or by phone at (208) 888-4451.
Your local public library has resources and assistance you won’t
find anywhere else and the services are free!
INSPIRE, aka the Idaho Connections Academy, is now meeting
the needs of Eagle students who learn better outside the traditional
classroom setting. Visit www.connections academy.com/idaho-onlineschool/events.aspx? idEvent =11909.
December 22, 2014
Valley Times
Meridian council OKs CDBG report
City Council members at their December 16th meeting approved Resolution No. 14-1039, the 2013 Consolidated Annual
Performance and Evaluation Report for Meridian’s Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. There was no testimony during the public comment period preceding the approval.
A total of $190,198.16 was spent on such programs as the local
Boys and Girls Club ($43,000), building the shelter at the 8th Street
Park and supporting the Meridian Food Bank ($60,000). In addition, the funds enabled two low-income households to put a down
payment on a home.
Council members also approved following a public hearing:
• CPAM 14-002, a request by Clarence McLain for an amendment to the Future Land Use Map in the Comprehensive Plan to
change the land use designation of 2.92 acres from Low-Density
Residential (LDR) to Commercial;
• AZ 14-013, a request for annexation of 1.44 acres from an R1 zoning district in Ada County to a C-G (General Retail and Service) zoning district for Tribal Fire on the north side of E. Overland Road and east of S. Topaz Avenue; and
• PP 14-016, a request by Walmart Real Estate Business Trust
for preliminary plat approval of five commercial lots on 20.16 acres
in a C-G zoning district for Coleman on the northwest corner of N.
Ten Mile and W. McMillan roads.
Under Department Reports, officials discussed the Ada CountyCity Emergency Management (ACCEM) Joint Powers Agreement
before approving it in the form of Resolution No. 14-1029.
Consent Agenda items approved via voice vote prior to the
Regular Agenda include:
• Approval of the Mercer FY15 Statement of Work for Benefits Brokerage/Consulting Services
• Biltmore Estates Subdivision Sewer and Water main Easement
• Memorandum of Agreement with Meridian Development
Corporation and Meridian Chamber of Commerce for a project to
study the feasibility of a Multi-Purpose and Event Center for City
with commitment in an amount not to exceed $14,500
• Approval of Evergreen Sole Source Purchase for Sensus Water Meter Reading Equipment and related products from Ferguson
Enterprises and authorize the Purchasing Manager to issue and
sign Purchase Orders and/or Contracts to Ferguson Enterprises for
the above-mentioned products
• Project Agreement between Meridian Development Corporation and City of Meridian for Main Street Improvements: Islands and Historic Lighting
• Renewal of the Intergovernmental Agreement with Ada
County Sheriff’s Office and Boise Police Department for a Consolidated Records Management System
• Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Decision and Order in the request to grant a variance by Capital Christian Church
regarding a proposed change in address.
• FP 14-043 Shallow Creek by A Team Consultants, southeast
corner of S. Stoddard Grove and E. Franklin roads, request for
final plat approval of 16 multifamily buildable lots and three common lots on 5.84 acres in an R-15 zoning district
• Resolution No. 14-1037: A Resolution approving the City of
Meridian’s Enrollment into the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA)’s Community Rating System (CRS).
• Resolution No. 14-1038: A Resolution establishing appointments for Board Members and Alternates to the Valley Regional
Transportation Authority
Note: The regular weekly City Council meeting scheduled for
Tuesday, December 23rd has been cancelled. For more information, call the City Clerk’s Office during regular business hours at
888-4433.
Eagle OKs Riverscape Subdivision
City Council members at their December 16th meeting approved a rezone modification and preliminary plat for Riverscape
Subdivision, an 87-lot (79 buildable, seven common and one private street) residential subdivision on 22.17 acres on the southwest corner of W. Old Valley and N. Linder roads.
Dave Yorgason of Tall Timber Consulting represented the applicant, OC Holdings, Inc. Don Stockton, former Parks & Pathways Development commissioner, said, “We need a parking lot
here for public access to the river. We need at least 10 parking
spots, not just three.”
Scott Trosper agreed, reiterating the importance of sportsman
access. Yorgason suggested a dedication to the City of Eagle.
Councilman Mark Butler said, “I feel uncomfortable forcing a
developer to provide public parking.” After a discussion in which
the applicant indicated agreement with creating a parking area on
land not in the floodplain, council approved the application 4-0.
On-line tutorials can make math easier and more fun.
Research shows web-based tutoring can
mean much-improved scores in math
Page 17
(Continued from previous page)
and E. Florence Drive.
• Jeremy Leopold, 37, was arrested for
DUI and possession of a controlled substance & paraphernalia.
• Possession of marijuana & paraphernalia, 1400 block of W. Watertower Street.
• Adam Richner, 34, was arrested for
DUI and leaving the scene of an accident.
• Malicious injury to property, 300
block of N.W. 13th Place and in the 300
block of W. Cave Bear.
• Trespassing, 1400 block of W. Great
Basin.
• William Potter, 22, was arrested for
domestic battery.
Thursday, December 18th, 2014
• Chaun Stone, 41, was arrested for
disorderly conduct.
• Sara Ferguson, 21, was arrested for
commercial burglary.
• Residential burglary, 2600 block of
W. State Street.
• Vehicular burglary, 1500 block of
N.W. 8th Street.
• Noel Wells, 33, was arrested for DUI/
DWP.
• Jay Leduc, 59, was arrested for DUI.
• Scott Mohlman, 38, was arrested for
DUI/injury traffic accident.
• Edward Valesko, 46, was arrested for
domestic battery and attempted strangulation.
(Release of additional information is
subject to the provisions of the Freedom of
Information Act. Names of minors are routinely withheld from publication. For more
information, call 888-6678 during regular
business hours.)
(NAPSI) – Ideally, all students would have access to one-onone tutoring when they need it. In most cases, this ideal is neither
feasible nor affordable, but advanced technology can give students
a one-on-one experience through software- and Web-based learning tools.
“Technology has transformed the way students learn, especially when it comes to math. The emphasis has shifted from solving abstract problems to actively engaging in math through activities that increase understanding of concepts and apply math to the
real world,” explained Dr. Steve Ritter. Software like Carnegie
Learning’s Cognitive Tutor provides real-time feedback on how
successful students are at solving problems targeted at particular
mathematics topics and will not let students proceed to the next
topic until they fully grasp each concept. Dr. Ritter notes that such
“software programs recognize sticking points for students, the same
as a personal tutor would, and provide problems and guidance until
the student shows that he or she has mastered the skills being
taught.” This process provides students with benefits similar to
those achieved in one-on-one experiences, which are known to
drive improved learning outcomes.
The success of this approach to learning was demonstrated in
a major experimental study conducted by the RAND Corporation.
The two-year study was conducted with over 18,000 students across
seven states, explained Dr. Ritter, who is the chief product architect for Carnegie Learning, Inc., a publisher of research-based
mathematics software and textbooks for middle and high school
students. Comparing students taught using Carnegie Learning’s
blended curriculum for Algebra I, which includes a combination
of consumable textbooks and software, with those taught by traditional methods using only the textbooks that were already in use,
students using the blended curriculum significantly outperformed
students using traditional textbooks, nearly doubling the growth
in knowledge of the textbook group.
Individualized Web-based learning programs are continuing
to evolve and provide more innovative learning opportunities. For
example, Carnegie Learning’s middle school software, MATHia,
makes learning fun for children by letting them personalize their
own math experience. Students can customize graphics and colors
for their screen. They can add the names of friends and family to
appear in math problems. They become more engaged because
their math problems feature subjects that are most interesting to
them, such as sports or music.
More important, students receiving these personalized features learn more. Just like faceto-face interaction with a live
tutor, online tutoring provides
individualized instruction targeted to areas where students are
struggling, as well as topics they
are interested in, to keep children actively engaged with
mathematics.
While current one-on-one
tutoring is a complement to traditional textbook learning and
in-class instruction, new developments in technology are making it possible to recognize
noncognitive elements of learning, such as whether a user is
bored or distracted, and how that
impacts learning. Intelligent
learning systems can then provide alternative ways to motivate students based on their attitude and feelings, just like a
human, one-on-one tutor. Visi
www/carnegielearning.com.
Council members also approved by a split vote CPA-02-14, a
Comprehensive Plan Amendment from Transitional Residential and
Residential Estates to Mixed Use. Merlyn and Sandra Bodily,
Harold Bunderson, Matthew and Susan Eells and Martine and Teri
Evan, represented by Mike Wardle with Brighton Corporation, requested the Comp Plan Text Amendment to modify Section 6.8.7
of the Rim View Planning Area and a Comprehensive Plan Map
Amendment to allow up to five units per acre, office, retail,
townhouse and multifamily. The 27.85-acre site is on the east side
of N. Linder Road approximately 1,200 feet north of the intersection of Chinden Boulevard and Linder.
Impacted homeowner Paul Farmer said, “We need to be
wrapped by lots, not houses.” Mark Butler’s motion to approve as
recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission was seconded by Stan Ridgeway and carried 3-1, with Mary McFarland in
favor and Jeff Kunz against. Another motion carried 2-1, with Kunz
against (McFarland excused herself and left the meeting because
of illness). Approval included two lots 17,000 square feet in size
and 20,000-square-foot lots on the south side plus allowing private
streets and reduced open space requirements. Councilman Kunz
asked the applicant to consider reducing the number of lots by one
but that wasn’t responded to or addressed in the conditions of approval.
Council members also approved CPA-03-14, a request by
the City of Eagle in consultation
with Idaho Power for a Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment
to integrate the utility’s Eastern
Treasure Valley Electrical Study
into the planning policies within
Chapter 4: Schools, Public Services and Utilities and adopt an
updated Map 4.4: Electrical
Transmission Corridors into the
City of Eagle’s Comprehensive
Plan. Complete copies of the
study, the text and map are available at Eagle City Hall.
Under New Business, Council members approved:
• WA-01-14, a request by
Eagle Baseball, Inc., represented
by Christopher Pecoraro for approval of a fee waiver for the
(Concluded on Page 18)
Valley Times
Page 18
Christmas and liverwurst
By Rich Nesbit
Hello, my faithful readers and newcomers. This year, I will
share a personal story about myself for Christmas...I hope you
enjoy it.
One of my fondest memories as a child is coming home from
Candle Light Service and having a special snack. My oldest brother
always wanted spaghetti; what my other two brothers ate I do not
recall. Me, I always wanted liverwurst on Ritz crackers.
Since we lived in a German neighborhood, there was never a
shortage of liverwurst to be found. What great memories it produces to this day.
You see, my dad died when I was in 6th grade. Mom had to go
to work and money was tight. So a special treat, an extra, always
made me happy. With three brothers, a grandma and two dogs,
there were not many extras. There was always food on the table
and a roof over our heads. We lived in a four-room railroad car
flat-style apartment.
Mom did not believe in welfare etc. and as we boys got older,
we all worked and put our money on the table to help with the
bills. To me, it was not a big deal; it was just what we did.
I remember my first boss telling me he would not pay me, he
would give it to my mom or grandma. No big deal; it was headed
there, anyway, I thought. I was proud that in 7th grade I had my
working papers and a job.
So knowing I would have liverwurst that night was a big deal
to me. I knew the presents under the tree would be OK. Underwear, socks and the other things we needed. Nothing a young boy/
teenager would be excited about for the most part. And truly not
caring or understanding that we were poor. Liverwurst was my
choice and I always got it. No suggestions for anything else, just
what did you want for a snack after Church. MmMm.
As the song says, “Don’t cry for
me.” I was and am happy. I still eat
liverwurst and remain grateful for the
good memories it creates. It reminds me
of the reason for the season. Church,
family, good memories.
Merry Christmas to All and to all a
good night! from Richie Rich
Rich Nesbit
Cell phone (208) 249-2355
Direct 208-287-0367
Toll Free 888-201-2854 Fax 208-3279859 Visit RichNesbit.com
Public’s help sought in possible trophy mule deer
poaching case in Owyhee County on November 3
A trophy mule deer and a distinctive vehicle are two pieces of
a possible poaching case that the public can play a critical role in
solving. Two male suspects are thought to have poached the trophy buck in Owyhee County, and possibly transported the animal
across state lines.
Idaho Fish and Game investigators working the potential poaching case are appealing to the public for critical information that
might crack the case wide open. Citizens Against Poaching (CAP)
is offering a reward for information in the case and callers may
remain anonymous. Call CAP at 1-800-632-5999 twenty four hours
a day.
The vehicle associated with the investigation is a newer model
tan-colored Ford Raptor pickup. The suspects were documented
fueling the vehicle at the Interstate 84 Stage Stop gas station east
of Boise at approximately 2:45 p.m. on Monday, November 3rd.
The trophy buck caught the attention of other Stage Stop patrons,
several of which engaged the two suspects in conversation. Later
that same day, both men and the vehicle were spotted in the Idaho
Falls area.
The suspects and the vehicle, which at the time sported only a
temporary license plate, are thought to be from out of state.
“We know that several people engaged in conversation with
the suspects that day in the Stage Stop parking lot,” Fish and Game
investigator Kurt Stieglitz said. “I’d really like to visit with anyone who spoke with either suspect or observed the deer in this
distinctive vehicle.”
In addition to calling the
CAP hotline, persons with information regarding this case may
also contact the Fish and Game
Nampa office at (208) 465-8465
weekdays and Idaho State Police at (208) 846-7550 on weekMule deer buck
ends.
Valley Times’ deadline for
news and advertising is every
Friday at noon. E-mail news
items, photos, ads etc. to
editor@ valleytimesidaho. com.
Ada County’s electronics
recycling program...Anytime
between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Monday-Friday and from 8:00
a.m.-6:00 p.m. on Saturdays, the
Ada County Landfill, 10300 N.
Seaman’s Gulch Road, accepts
elec-tronic equipment for recycling at no charge. Bring old cell
phones, cameras, com-puters,
televisions etc. and let the
attendant know. Do the right
thing for our environ-ment and
recycle whenever you can,
including taking glass to
receptacles. Visit http://www.
adacounty land fill.com.
Young American Creative
Patriotic Art Contest
This contest is open to students in grades 9-12. The top national prize is a $10,000 scholarship. Other prizes range from
$5,000 for second-place down
to $500 for fifth through eighth
place. The first-place winner
will also receive a plaque, airfare and two night’s lodging to
attend the Ladies Auxiliary National Convention. The national
first-place winning entry will be
featured on the cover of Ladies
Auxiliary VFW Magazine. Second and third place will be featured in the magazine and all
eight top prize winners will featured on the Ladies Auxiliary
web site at www.ladiesaux vfw
org.
Deadline is March 31st,
2015. Send entries to the Post
& Auxiliary 4000, Irene Godby,
34 E. Waterbury Lane, Meridian ID 83646, phone (208) 8550420 or June Pack at (208) 8882839.
School career counselor
will have copy of the entry form
or interested students may call
June Pack at 888-2839 for a
copy.
See last year’s winners at
www.ladies auxvfw. org/Young
American Creative Patriotic Art.
The regular monthly meetings of the Eagle Arts Commission have been changed to the
second Tuesday of each month
at 8:30 a.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall. E-mail artscom
mission @cityofeagle.org.
Valley Times’ deadline for
receipt of news and advertising
is every Friday at noon. E-mail
news items, photos, ads etc. as
separate attachments in jpeg to
editor@valleytimes idaho.com.
If you have questions, call 4075224.
Want to make a difference?
Get involved in a service club
in your community. Your local
City Hall and Chamber of
Commerce have a list of clubs
and other local causes that could
use your time.
December 22. 2014
Obituary: WesLee Walter Hoalst
WesLee Walter Hoalst, 85, of Meridian passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2014 at a local hospital. Funeral services followed by a luncheon will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 22nd at Meridian United Methodist Church, 240 E. Idaho
St. in Meridian. Burial will be at Meridian Cemetery.
Wes was born on November 23rd, 1929 in Bruneau, Idaho, the
fourth of five children of Earl and Marsh Hoalst. When he was
eight years old, the family moved to Hammett, where he was raised.
Wes was a proud alum of the University of Idaho and a member of
the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. After college, he partnered with his
father in the ranching and farming business, raising Black Angus
cattle. He married his high school sweetheart, Rosie Whitney, in
1950.
In 1969, he moved to Meridian and became a manager for
Farm Bureau Insurance from 1969 to 1982. His agency was the
top agency for Western Farm Bureau Life Insurance. In 1982, he
launched an independent life and health insurance agency with his
partner, the late Steve Anderson, whom Wes brought into the insurance business in the early ‘70s.
Wes was a member and president of the Meridian Rotary Club
and attended several state conventions. He and Rosie also hosted a
Japanese exchange student. For his contributions to the good causes
of Rotary, he received a Paul Harris Fellow award.
His family have been lifelong members of the United Methodist Church. Wes led the construction of the new sanctuary and Family Life Center and served on church committees. He served as the
maitre d’ for 40 years for the church’s annual Ground Hog Feed,
sponsored by the United Methodist Men.
Wes always supported the economic development efforts of
his communities. He was involved for 40 years with the Meridian
Chamber of Commerce and served on committees and the Board
of Directors. At many of the Pancake Feeds, you would find him
cooking over the hot griddles or deep fryers. He also helped hang
the Main Street Christmas decorations for many years.
In 2006, Mayor Tammy de Weerd presented Wes with the
Mayor’s Legacy Award. He received Meridian’s “Man of the Year”
award in 2011.
Wes was honored as a 50-year member of the Masonic organization where he first became a member in Glenns Ferry. He remained active in the Meridian Masons and the El Korah Shriners
in Boise, helping to raise funds for the Shrine Hospitals and Burn
Centers for children.
In 1972, Wes and Rosie in partnership with Diane Ostrander
founded Wings Gymnastics. Wes was the business mind, Rosie
was the bookkeeper and Diane had the vision as a gymnastics coach.
All the partners eventually sold to Frank Sahlein and the business
continues to prosper and change the lives of children.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Rosie; daughters Diana
Rolig of Boise, LoriLee Jones of Meridian and Lisa Kay and her
husband, Ken Budnik, of Vancouver, WA; grandchildren Whitney
Rolig of Washington, D.C.; Allison Berkson and her husband, Kyle,
of Boise; Lynley Budnik of Seattle, WA and Ryan WesLee Budnik
of Vancouver, WA; great-grandchildren Sawyer and Esther Berkson
of Boise; a brother, Preston Hoalst of Meridian; a sister, June
Fitzgerald and her husband, John, of McCall; and many nieces
and nephews.
Memorials may be made in Wes’ name to the Meridian United
Methodist Church, Building Fund, 235 E. Pine Avenue, Meridian
ID 83642 or Shriners Hospital for Children, Office of Development, Fairfax Road at Virginia Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84103.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at
St. Luke’s Meridian Medical Center ICU and the loving staff at
(Continued in next columns, across and above at right)
Obituary: Dorothy Ann Mach
Dorothy Ann Mach of Meridian, Idaho passed away December 12, 2104 at her home. She left behind her two sisters; Darlene
Kasel of Nampa and Idean Dealy of Meridian. She will be greatly
missed.
As per Dorothy’s request, no services will be held. Arrangements are under the direction of Accent Funeral Home, Meridian.
Remembrances may be left for the family on-line at www.
AccentFuneral.com.
Eagle City Council (continued from Page 17)
building permit and design review application fees associated with
a new baseball storage facility at Eagle High School; and
• AA-02-12, an appeal by Boise Hunter Homes, represented
by Brad Pfannmuller of the Design Review Board’s decision to
require open-style fencing adjacent to all common areas within
Eagle River Lofts Subdivision. The 18.5-acre sit is on the south
side of E. Riverside Drive approximately 1,500 feet west of S.
Edgewood Lane.
December 22. 2014
Touchmark Assisted Living and Apex Rehabilitation.
“Loyalty” is a word that describes Wes
in his commitment to his wife, family and
community.” He loved fishing, water skiing,
golfing, dancing and playing bridge. Most of
all, he loved his family. Leave remembrances
at www.Accent Funeral.com. Services are under the direction of Accent Funeral Home.
Obituary: Hermie Smith
Longtime Meridian resident Hermie Smith passed away at her
home on December 18th, 2014. A graveside service will be held at
2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 23 at the Meridian Cemetery.
Remembrances may be left for the family on-line at www.
AccentFuneral.com. Services are under the direction of Accent
Funeral Home, Meridian.
She was born at the family farm near Idaho Falls in 1922, the
daughter of Charles and Marguerite Robertson. Hermie graduated
from Idaho Falls High School in 1940. While working in Idaho
Falls, she met her husband, Sidney Smith, then a lieutenant in the
U.S. Army Air Corps in Idaho Falls in 1943.
They married that year and after he returned from the war in
Europe, she followed him through his career in the Army Air Corps
and U.S. Air Force to Texas, Hawaii,
California and New York, where he
retired in 1963.
During their travels in the service, their marriage was blessed with
three children: Steven Smith, Janell
Kozak and Nancy Jones. The family
returned after Sidney’s retirement in
1963 to Idaho Falls, where their three
children graduated from Bonneville
High School.
Obituary: Clarence Clauson
Clarence Clauson, 93, passed away on December 3, 2014. A
memorial service will be held later in the spring to allow for family and friends to attend. Remembrances may be left for the family
at www.AccentFuneral.com. Services are under the direction of
Accent Funeral Home, Meridian.
Clarence was born to Mr. and Mrs. Charles Clauson on November 20, 1921 in Emmett, Idaho. At the age of seven, his family
moved to a farm near Central Mesa/Emmett. While in high school,
he was a member of Future Farmers of America. He graduated
from Emmett High School in 1939 and then helped his parents and
younger brother farm 100 acres. In 1941, he purchased a farm on
the Emmett Bench.
On June 20, 1943 Clarence was united in marriage to Zola
Rogers at his parents’ farm. To this union a daughter, Sharon, and
a son, Larry, were born. Clarence was always very devoted to his
wife and entire family and loved Jesus with his whole heart, mind
and soul.
In the fall of 1952, they moved to a dairy farm east of Eagle.
In 1958, they sold the farm and opened a drive-in in Meridian
which is now the Hungry Onion. Clarence started working in 1959
at the Meridian Post Office, serving in different capacities and finished as a rural carrier in 1982. He held an office in that association. In retirement, Clarence and Zola enjoyed traveling to several
different countries and most of the United States. They also spent
several winters in Yuma, Arizona meeting and making a lot of
friends.
He was a member of the Retired Federal Employee Golden
Eagle Chapter in Nampa, Idaho. Clarence was also a member of
Valley Shepherd Church of the Nazarene since 1962. Another love
of Clarence’s was making items with his scroll saw.
Clarence is survived by his daughter, Sharon Rebman, and son,
Larry (Barbara); five grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and
three great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his
wife of 70 years, Zola; his parents, brother Paul and sister Marie.
The family would like to express
sincere appreciation to the staff at
Meadow Lake Village, Owyhee Lodge
Memory Care and Heart N’ Home
Hospice for the outstanding care and
compassion shown for Clarence. Make
memorials to Trinity Pines Camp and
Conference Center, 55 SW 5th Avenue,
Suite 100, Meridian, ID 83642 or a
charity of your choice, in Clarence’s
name.
Valley Times
Page 19
In 1969, the family moved to Meridian, where Sidney served as a pilot for the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Hermie worked for many years at the Boise Park
Department until her retirement. Upon Sidney’s death in 1992, she remained in Meridian with her
daughter Nancy and grandchild Holly. In 1996, she met her friend Clifford
Lee, who passed away in 2012.
Hermie was an active person who loved gardening, antique collecting
and traveling. She was devoted to providing for and educating her family.
She is survived by her three children, three grandchildren, Holly Arnell,
Matthew Kozak and Barbara Kozak; and three great-grandchildren, Hunter
Arnell, Lillian Kozak and Dexter Kozak.
As one of the last members of the greatest generation who served our
country during the Second World War, she will be sorely missed by her
family and friends.
Obituary: Kenneth Richard Coleman
Master Sergeant Kenneth Richard Coleman 69, Boise, Idaho went to join the Lord on December
11th, 2014 at his residence after a valiant and courageous five-year fight with bladder cancer.
He was born in Reading, Berks County, Pennsylvania to Alfred H. Coleman and Lillian M.
Zwicky Coleman on September 25th, 1945. He is survived by his wife Carol L Coleman; two daughters:
Jayme L. Adams of Boise and Amber J. Coleman (Clarkson) of San Diego, California; eight grandchildren; two brothers, Donald R. Coleman of Reading and Robert B. Coleman of Wyomissing,
Pennsylvania and five nieces and five nephews. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America and
became an Eagle Scout and received the Order of the Arrow.
Ken graduated from Wilson High School on June 2, 1963 and enlisted in the United States Air
Force on 19 July 1963. During his military career he was stationed at Altus Air Force Base Oklahoma,
Strategic Air Command, in 1964-1965. He went to the Debriefing Section, Director of Intelligence,
366th Tactical Fighter Wing, Da Nang Air Base, Republic of Vietnam from 1 January 1966 to 23
December 1966. Following his tour of duty he was assigned to Fairchild Air Force Base Washington
working at the Air Force Survival School.
He married the love of his life Carol Lynn Herman at Fairchild Air Force Base Washington on
18th November 1967. They enjoyed an adventurous and exciting 47 year marriage.
In 1970, the family was assigned by the United States Air Force to Oslo, Norway where he
served with NATO from 1970-1974. Ken enjoyed competing with the NATO Forces in the Ski and
Shoot competitions during this assignment. He advanced in those competitions yearly to finish right
behind the top Norwegian NATO members. Then it was on to the next military assignment at Mountain
Home Air Force Base, Idaho, 366th Fighter Wing. After 12 years of active duty he continued and
retired from his military career with the Idaho Air National Guard 124th Tactical Reconnaissance
Group at Gowan Field, Boise. He also attended Boise State University and received his Master Auto,
Diesel, and Onan certifications. Ken continued his working career for Mountain Bell/US West/Qwest/
Century Link and retired in 2005.
Ken filled his retirement in many volunteer areas. He was a life member of the Veterans of
Foreign Wars, Telephone Pioneers of America, life member of the American Iris Society and a Garden
and Exhibition Judge, Idaho Academy of Science, Idaho Master Naturalist. He loved working with
the children at the MK Nature Center and the Jim Hall Foothills Learning Center. Ken was a great
photographer, hiker and climber and loved the Idaho mountains.
He and his wife co-owned C. Iris On Pond, an Idaho state-licensed
nursery for research, development and public education. Other areas of
interest for Ken were the Intermountain Bird Observatory and working
on the Aquatic Bird Counts. He also enjoyed working for the Western
Idaho Fair.
A funeral service was held on December 18th at the Vineyard
Christian Fellowship, Boise. Military honors were held on December
19th at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, Boise. Remembrances may
be left for the family at www.AccentFuneral.com. Services were under
the direction of Accent Funeral Home. Make memorials in his name to
MK Nature Center, Jim Hall Foothills Learning Center, or the American
Iris Society.
December 22, 2014
Valley Times
Page 20
MFD holds annual Promotions, Pinning Ceremony
Firefighters, officials, families and friends filled Council Chambers on December 17th for the annual Promotions and Pinning Ceremony of the Meridian Fire
Department. Master of Ceremonies was Deputy Chief Perry Palmer, who welcomed everyone for the emotional event that marks milestones in the lives of career public
safety workers. He also led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Department Chaplain Verlyn Brower delivered the invocation prior to remarks by Chief Mark Niemeyer and Mayor Tammy de Weerd. “We don’t often enough thank
our public safety servants,” she said. “These men and women put their lives on the line every day for the entire community.”
Also in attendance were Council members Genesis Milam, Luke Cavener, Keith Bird and David Zaremba. “The fire and police departments in Meridian get along very
well and support each other,” he said. “That’s not always the case in other communities where you might find them
engaged in turf wars.’
Printed on the back of the program was the
Visit the LITTLE FREE LIBRARY in Meridian City Hall’s
firefighter’s oath of office: “I do hereby declare, that
outdoor plaza. Take or leave a book is how it works. Information:
I will support the Constitution of the United States
Shelly Houston at 489-0531 or [email protected].
and the State of Idaho, and that I will faithfully discharge my duties as Firefighter to the Meridian Fire
Learn to speak in public for greater confidence and success
Department and to the Citizens of Meridian to the
in life. Eagle Toastmasters meets every Wednesday from 8:00best of my ability.
9:00 a.m. at Foothills Christian Church, 9655 W. State Street,
“I promise to protect and enhance our commuBoise 83714. Visit www.eagle ID toastmasters. org.
nity through professionalism and compassion in
Pinnings: William Schuler, Firefighter. Pinning accordance with the Meridian Fire Department’s
Honors: Charmaine, Ethan, Savannah and Char- guiding principles and policies.”
lynn Schuler
Pinnings: Joe Bongiorno, Captain/Fire Inspector. Promotions: Luke Smillie, Captain. Pinning Honors:
Caroline, Colton, Nathan, Emma and Tristan Smillie.
Pinning Honors: Alicia Bongiorno
At far left: Chief Mark Niemeyer. At far right: Mayor
de Weerd.
The
Gathering
Place
50 E. State Street in
Downtown Eagle
230-1180
Promotions: Grant Hamilton, Engineer. Pinning
Honors: Bobbi Hamilton, At right: Mayor Tammy
de Weerd administers the oath of office. (Photos
courtesy of Judy Gerhart/Meridian Fire Depart- Promotions: David Jones, Deputy Chief of Operament)
tions. Pinning Honors: Theresa and Matthew Jones
Beer Specials, Board Games,
Snacks & Fun!
featuring Beer Pong tables
Full Bar
Also, Happy Hours 1/2 off
ALL drinks
M-F 3:30-6:30
Watch the Vandal
basketball game vs.
Northern Kentucky on
Mon., Dec. 22 at 7:00
p.m. ET
O