DISTRICT SEEKS BUSING CONTRACT
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AN EDITION OF THE IDAHO PRESS-TRIBUNE // MYMERIDIANPRESS.COM // 03.28.14
inside
COVER: School district hopes to contract for busing services Seeking a solution to a shortage of bus drivers and an aging fleet of buses, Joint School District No. 2 is looking into contracting with a private company to run busing operations.
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CITY P&Z commissioners say they know new developments are scary for rural residents. But that issue is unavoidable as the city grows — as seen in the emotional debate over the proposed Ten Mile Center.
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SCHOOLS
SPORTS
Joint School District No. 2 Superintendent Linda Clark took her 21st trip to China over spring break. She’s been drawn to the country since her first trip as a tourist in the late 1970s.
Annual baseball, softball tournaments mark the true beginning of spring sports this weekend and let teams test themselves.
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We will stick with a wet weather pattern for the weekend. Showers will persist on Saturday, then start to dry out by Sunday afternoon. We will see a break in the action by the start of the next work week, but the slight chance of showers sneaks back into the forecast by Wednesday.
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City wrestles with how to rank road needs W connect hbeech@mymeridianpress.com
hen I lived in Meridian last year, a common sight was bright orange traffic cones. In a city that’s shown such rapid and consistent growth, all the road construction is no surprise, and it’s not going to go away any time soon. “We’re five or 10 years behind of where we should be” on road improvements, Planning Department manager Caleb Hood told City Council March 11. The question the city is currently wrestling with is: which road projects deserve priority? The city doesn’t get to decide the answer, but it can influence it. Each year, Meridian gives a list of road project priorities to Ada County Highway District (ACHD), which decides which projects to fund and when to fund them. The city’s Transportation Commission has created a draft list of priorities to submit to ACHD in April. The most congested roadways tend to take highest priority on the list, Hood said. But worrying about congestion isn’t enough, City Council President Charlie Rountree responded. The city needs to focus on where the growth is going to happen — such as southeast and northwest Meridian — not just where development already exists, he said. This brings up a problem that maybe you’ve faced before in your
Work: 208-465-8193 Mobile: 208-899-6432 Twitter: @HollyBeechMP Facebook: Holly Beech MP
priorities list
At mymeridianpress.com, you’ll find the city of Meridian’s 2013 road/intersection project recommendations to the Ada County Highway District. The city is currently updating that list and will re-submit it to ACHD by the end of April.
CRIME WATCH Meridian Police Department Log March 19-25 Police made the following arrests or issued charges: 3 driving under the influence 1 open alcohol container 1 possession of a controlled substance 6 possession of drug paraphernalia 9 warrants 1 resisting and obstructing 1 battery with intent to commit a serious felony 2 domestic batteries 2 driving without privileges 1 battery 2 vandalism 3 petit thefts 1 parole violation
Police also took calls, investigated or assisted: 5 grand thefts 6 medical assists 3 petit thefts 1 arson 6 commercial burglaries 5 vehicle burglaries 1 fraudulent 1 domestic verbal 1 injury traffic accident 2 no-contact order violations 3 disturbances 5 domestic verbals 1 vandalism 1 trespassing 1 found property
ROADREPORT Eighth Street from Carlton Avenue to Pine Avenue, road closure through March 31 for sewer and water work. n Black Cat Road from Ustick Road to Ramblin Road, lane restrictions with flagging for power pole replacement. n Linder Road north of Chateau Avenue, lane restrictions through today for utility work. n Linder Road from South of Ustick Road to Chateau Drive, shoulder work through March 31 for fiber placement. n Locust Grove Road at Sumn
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merheights Drive to Ustick Road, lane restrictions with flagging through July 20 for road widening and water and sewer work. n Pine Avenue from Linder Road to Meridian Road, road closure through March 31 for sewer and water work. n Ten Mile Road from Chinden Boulevard to McMillan Road, shoulder work through today for sewer, water, storm drain and irrigation work. n Ten Mile Road South of Cherry Lane to Ustick Road, lane restrictions with flagging through March 30 for utility work. n Troxel Way from Ustick Road to Omera Street, road closure through April 15 for a road project. n Ustick Road from Leslie Way to Yellow Peak Way, lane restrictions with flagging through July 30 for road widening and water and sewer work. n Ustick Road west of Meridian Road, intermittent lane restrictions with flagging through March 31 for concrete work. © 2014 Vol. 1, No. 61, 12 pages
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own life: how can you be proactive and prepare for the future when you’re playing catch up? Like Hood said, there are some routes and intersections that have been needing improvements for years. Would it make sense for ACHD ignore those to do preventative work in a less congested part of town? When ACHD schedules projects, it considers three main factors: safety, congestion and growth criteria. After collaborating with cities throughout the year, ACHD will adopt its five-year plan for 2015-2019 in September. South Meridian roads concern city of- by Holly Beech ficials, but at the same time, those proj- hbeech@mymeridianpress.com ects don’t rank as highly on the city’s pri- © 2014 MERIDIAN PRESS orities list as north Meridian projects do. That being said, about half of the city’s intersection priorities are in south Meridian, according to Hood. I’ll be keeping my eye on how Meridian and ACHD move forward this year with road project plans. If you have any thoughts on this subject, feel free to let us know at facebook.com/meridianpress or find my contact information to the left.
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Public hearing over disputed Sherman Alexie book is April 1
T
he Joint School District No. 2 Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing Tuesday about a disputed book on the district’s supplemental reading list for sophomore English classes. A handful of parents have complained about “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie, which has been approved for teachers to use since 2010. The book didn’t raise eyebrows until last semester, when teachers chose to use it at Mountain View, Centennial and Meridian high schools, the district’s Language Arts Curriculum Coordinator Laura Gilchrist said. The concerns tend to be over swear words and mateby Holly Beech hbeech@mymeridianpress.com rial that’s viewed as religiously offensive and prejudiced © 2014 MERIDIAN PRESS against whites, she said. A committee of parents and teachers approved the book as an option for teachers because of its overall uplifting WEIGH IN message that’s given from the perspective of a teenager who WHAT: Joint School District No. overcomes trials, Gilchrist 2 public hearing about whether said. It also has a strong anti- or not “The Absolutely True drinking message, she said. Diary of a Part-Time Indian” “One of the things we do by Sherman Alexie should be talk about (as a committee) is allowed on the district’s suppleyou can’t just go through and mental reading list. read it for swear words, you WHEN: 6 p.m., April 1 have to read the entire book … WHERE: District Service Center, and consider that the material as whole is more valuable than 1303 E Central Drive, in the one passage taken out of con- Sawtooth Conference room. To get to the conference room, text,” Gilchrist said. A new committee of teach- enter the building through the ers, principals and people nom- Renaissance High School front inated by each school board doors on the northwest side trustee will review the book of the building (entrance faces and decide whether or not to re- west). Inside the foyer you’ll move it from the supplemental see a staircase behind a door on reading list, she said. Until that the left, which will lead you updecision is made, the book is off stairs to the conference room. limits for classroom use.
BOOK DISPUTED IN OTHER DISTRICTS
‘Luck O’ the Irish’ to benefit injured student
Meridian High School freshman Colin Steppe will get a financial boost for medical care thanks to this year’s “Luck O’the Irish”Casino Night. The annual event, hosted by the Meridian Firefighters and the Meridian Optimist Club, is 5:30 to 11 p.m. Saturday at the Church of Holy Nativity gym, 828 W. Cherry Lane. Last fall Steppe was injured while playing football, which led to him having surgery to remove a brain tumor. After the surgery he developed Posterior Fossa Syndrome, which limited his ability to talk, move and swallow, though he is making progress. Tickets for the 18-and-older event are $15, which include play money and door prizes/tickets.
Southwest to offer nonstop LA service
Another airline has announced a new nonstop flight to and from the Boise Airport. Southwest Airlines will add a Saturday nonstop flight between Boise and the Los Angeles International Airport beginning June 14. Delta Air Lines announced last week it will offer daily nonstop service between Boise and L.A. beginning June 5. The new Southwest flight will depart L.A. at 9:15 a.m. and arrive in Boise at 12:10 p.m. The flight leaves Boise at 12:50 p.m. and arrives in L.A. at 2:05 p.m. Earlier this month, Delta announced a new nonstop flight between Boise and L.A.
Nampa-Meridian canals set to open April 7
The Nampa & Meridian Irrigation District will divert water from the Boise River to the Ridenbaugh Canal starting April 7. After that the water will take about two weeks to completely fill all 500 miles of main and lateral canals to deliver irrigation water to customers throughout the district. Officials warn that flowing canals are dangerous and can pose a serious drowning risk for children and adults. Nampa & Meridian Irrigation District canals are private property, so playing in them — or along their banks — is considered trespassing under Idaho state code.
“The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” has created a stir in a handful of other school districts over the years. Earlier this year, following two motions to ban “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian,” the Sweet Home School Board in Oregon voted unanimously to keep the book in the district’s English curriculum. But teachers must provide a second novel for parents to choose as an alternative, according to the Albany Democrat-Herald. Author Sherman Alexie has made comments on Twitter about the debates over his novel. “My book has been read & loved by a few million kids. A few dozen parents in a few dozen schools hate it. Hmm?” he tweeted March 2.
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Video footage from a victim’s cellphone helped police arrest an 18-year-old who allegedly threatened another teen in an Eagle park Sunday night. Jordan A. Charles, 18, was arrested Monday and charged with a felony count of aggravated assault, according to Eagle Police. Police were able to identify and arrest him because the victim used his cellphone to record Charles allegedly threatening him with a knife. Police say the assault took place at about 7 p.m. Sunday near the swings at Orval Krasen Park in Eagle. Subscription rates
Meridian Press home delivery available with Idaho Press-Tribune packages: • 7 day IPT + MP: EZPay 4wks $10.80 • Weekend, Fri, Sat & Sun IPT + MP: EZPay 4wks $10.00 Contact subscriber services for daily specials FREE DELIVERY AREAS Cobble Field Crossing Sundance Coral Creek Baldwin Park Holybrook Crystal Cove Amber Creek Grant Place Castle brook Cedar Springs Pheasant Point Chesterfield Woodburn Havasu Creek Parkside Creek La Mirada Heritage Common Silver Leaf Ventana Bristol Heights Verona Place Saguaro Canyon Candlestick Park Kelly Creek Saguaro Springs Summerfield Lochsa Falls Tuscany Champion Park Paramount Hightower Arcadia Copper Basin Bridge Tower Solitude Place Bellingham Park Hartford Estates Burney Glen Green Valley For more locations to pick up Meridian Press, visit mymeridianpress.com/locations C M Y K
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LOCAL NEWS
NorthTen Mile developments COMING SOON Walmart Supercenter n Near the northwest corner of Ten Mile/McMillan n Construction underway. Completion set for early 2015. n 300 new jobs, give or take n Building permit value: $15 million n 163,875 square feet Fast Eddy’s gas station/ convenience store n Northeast corner of Ten Mile/ McMillan Maverik gas station/ convenience store n Northwest corner of Ten Mile/ Ustick Wastewater treatment plant expansion n Three-story administration building, additional lab space and remodel n $6.35 million project n Completion: late 2014
TEN MILE INTERCHANGE SPECIFIC AREA PLAN The city published a vision for the area north of Interstate 84 and east of Ten Mile Road in 2007. Find the plan at mymeridianpress.com.
“
We are at a major intersection of the Treasure Valley, and it’s going to change here.” SCOTT FREEMAN Planning and Zoning Commissioner
Homeowners: Development will ‘ruin’ rural neighborhood
H
omeowners fear a new development along North Ten Mile Road will trample on their rural, peaceful way of life. At the March 20 Planning and Zoning meeting, several residents spoke out against the Ten Mile Center, a proposed 120-acre housing and business community next to their quiet Primrose Subdivision, which has been around for more than 30 years. “We are going to have so much traffic, we will no longer be a rural neighborhood,” homeowner Jeanette Ockerman said. Throughout Meridian’s rural areas, residents — whether they like it or not — are having to adjust to new growth. Photos by Holly Beech/MP “We are at a major intersection of the Treasure Val- Treasure Valley Investments is proposing to build the Ten Mile Center, a mixed-use residential and commercial community on ley, and it’s going to change the east side of North Ten Mile Road between Interstate 84 and Franklin Road. The area is currently surrounded by farmland and here,” Planning and Zoning low-density housing. Commissioner Scott Freeman said. For city planners, allowing new growth and pleasing current residents is a balancing act. “I do have to admit that trying to balance the rural nature of the by Holly Beech hbeech@mymeridianpress.com residents with the proposed development is a tough one,” P&Z Commis© 2014 MERIDIAN PRESS sioner Steven Yearsley said of the Ten Mile Center. All along North Ten Mile Road, which still has large sections of farmland, new homes and businesses are popping up, including a Walmart Supercenter. Before the Ten Mile Interchange opened in 2011, the city created the Ten Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan, which stretches north of the freeway to the railroad tracks just past Franklin Road. The plan calls for a variety of housing, retail and office options, a connected pathway system and an efficient street network. Engineering Solutions owner Becky McKay, part of the Ten Mile Center planning team, said the Ten Mile Center design goes the green light to move forward in the approval process, with hand-in-hand with this vision. some provisions to spread out the housing density. “Our commitment to the Ten Mile Area Specific Plan is 100 “(The Ten Mile Center) plan can be made to work with the percent,” McKay said. “... I think we are embracing the transition. neighborhood, this plan can be made to work with your lifestyle,” We respect the integrity of their neighborhood, and we are playFreeman told Primrose homeowners. “But I will say this — it’s ing a balancing act with these densities.” But Primrose residents worry new apartment buildings will going to change.” McKay thinks the Ten Mile Center is a good example of trantower over their backyards and traffic will rip through their rural roads. One teacher was moved to tears, saying more housing sitional growth. But, as evidenced by last week’s public hearing, homeowners could mean fuller classes at the nearby Peregrine Elementary. “I understand the fear, there’s a lot of fear when this kind of do not agree. stuff goes on,” Freeman said. “I think (commissioners) had their minds made up before Ultimately, commissioners gave the Ten Mile Center project they got here,” Ockerman said. “It’s about money.”
Centre Point proposal sparks tense debate
M
ayor Tammy de Weerd exchanged frustrated words with a project manager at Tuesday’s City Council meeting over road concerns in a Meridian neighborhood. Bob Unger with ULC Management is asking councilors to approve an application for 40 new housing lots in Centre Point Square, located in the Bienville Square neighborhood at the southwest corner of Eagle and Ustick roads. But current homeowners in the neighborhood said before any new development occurs, the city must address road safety concerns. The public often uses their private roads as a shortcut between Eagle and Ustick, by Holly Beech hbeech@mymeridianpress.com they said. Homeowners are also © 2014 MERIDIAN PRESS afraid that any new development is going to end up looking like the other lots that Unger sold to a developer — repetitive duplex rentals that use gravel landscaping instead of grass. Residents call this section of the neighborhood the “barracks” or the “shacks.” One woman said with all the negative changes and unwanted traffic, she regrets helping her daughter buy a house there. After listening to several concerns, the council teetered on how to proceed. This surprised Unger, who said he had “bent over backwards” to make sure the proposal was acceptable, calling for stricter exterior design standards and traffic calming devices on the private roads, such as speed bumps and chicanes. He noted that councilors had approved those private roads when Bienville Square first developed, and for them to halt more development this late in the game would be frustrating.
De Weerd responded sternly, PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUES “Imagine if you had bought a house, one WHAT: Meridian City Council public of the first in this de- hearing about proposed Centre Point velopment, and all of Square development the things that have WHEN: 6 p.m., April 1 changed since then WHERE: Meridian City Hall, 33 E. happened as well. Broadway Ave. Things change, Bob. There’s no absolutes. But this is not a good scenario.” Upon Unger’s request, the City Council decided to continue the public hearing on April 1.
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WHO PAYS FOR PRIVATE ROADS? The current development has two sets of CC&Rs (covenants, conditions and restrictions) — one for commercial property owners and one for homeowners. Requirements to maintain common areas, including private roads, are included in the commercial property owners’ agreement. The homeowners’ CC&Rs don’t have a requirement like this, said Julie Hysmith, the neighborhood’s homeowner association treasurer. But residents told City Council they’re worried they might have to foot the bill to maintain the private roads. Unger said he will research this issue before the next public hearing. The mixed-use neighborhood, originally proposed in 2005 as Bienville Square, has a complicated history, with land switching hands because of a foreclosure. Now there are multiple land owners involved.
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03.28.14 // MYMERIDIANPRESS.COM
LOCAL NEWS DEATHS
PET OF THE WEEK
Sally G. Kjerstad, 51, of Nam- Wilma May Moore,
All obituaries for Meridian Press must be placed by your mortuary or at selfserve.idahopress.com. Deadline is 3 p.m. Wednesdays for Friday publication. If you have questions call 465-8128.
Nona Baker, 98, of Eagle, died Mary F. daRosa, 72, of MeridFriday, March 21, 2014, at a local care center. Arrangements are under the direction of Accent Funeral Home, Meridian. 888-5833.
Sharon Carter, 61, of Kuna, died Saturday, March 22, 2014 at her home. Services are under the direction of Accent Funeral Home, Meridian. 888-5833 Aaron Crandall, 42, of MeridSubmitted by Meridian Valley Humane Society Dog Rescue
Denzel is a 2-year-old neutered male Pit Bull blend, up to date on shots, who is looking for a new family to love. Denzel is a “love bug” and thrives on attention. He appears to get along with other dogs, but his behavior with cats is unknown. It appears he is house trained. Denzel spent several hours March 15 at the Nampa Parks & Rec Food Truck Rally (to benefit the Nampa Dog Park) and was quite a hit with the crowd. After a short adjustment period to the smells, noise, other dogs and humans, Denzel proved to be a social butterfly. Denzel is people friendly and is great with kids, standing nice and still for the smallest ones to love on him. He listens fairly well, responds to his handler and will walk on leash without tugging when reminded to mind his manners. Denzel is active and will need a family who can provide plenty of activity and stimulation to keep him happy and healthy. His adoption fee is $85. The Meridian Valley Humane Society Dog Rescue invites you to stop by (191 N. Linder Road) and meet this handsome fellow to see if he’d be a good addition to your family. Phone: 794-0944
GOING PLACES D.L. Evans Bank announced Missy WalkerSitts has joined the bank as a mortgage loan officer at the Nampa Karcher branch. WalkerSitts has lived in Canyon County for 20 years. Missy WalkerShe is a board member and treasurer of Parma Sitts Summer Baseball Program and a member of the Parma Panther 4-H club. n Mountain West Bank announced Judy Bauer has joined the bank as a mortgage loan originator. Bauer has been in the mortgage business for more than three decades and has been a mortgage loan originator for 14 years. She has been a Treasure Valley resident for 15 years. n
Judy Bauer
ian, died Friday, March 21, 2014, at his home. Arrangements are under the direction of Accent Funeral Home, Meridian. 888-5833
ian, died Friday, March 21, 2014 at her David L. Matheson, MD, home. Services are under the direc- 79, of Caldwell, passed away Monday, tion of Accent Funeral Home, Merid- March 24th at a Meridian hospital of natural causes. Memorial services will ian. 888-5833 be held at 2:30 p.m. Friday, April 11th Irene L. Hackler, 87, of Nam- at the Meridian Assembly Church, pa, died Monday March 24, 2014, at 1830 N. Linder Rd., Meridian. Private a local hospital. Services pending, interment will be at the Idaho State Nampa Funeral Home, Yraguen Cha- Veterans Cemetery in Boise. Services pel. 442-8171 are under the direction of Dakan Funeral Chapel, Caldwell. Betty D. Heffel, 83, of Meridian, died Tuesday, March 25, 2014, at Dale D. Matlack, 80, of Merida local hospital. Services are under ian, died Friday, March 21, 2014, at the direction of Accent Funeral Home, his home. Arrangements are under the direction of Accent Funeral Home, Meridian. 888-5833. Meridian. 888-5833
THINGS TO DO Today CALDWELL — Lenten Clam Chowder Luncheons, 11:30 a.m. Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 1122 W. Linden. Every Friday during Lent, lunch of clam chowder, minestrone, coleslaw, pie and coffee will be served for $6, children 5-12 are $3. Contact: Roberta Tavaras, 459-9241. BOISE — “Hairy Tale Rock” presented by Meridian Cue, 7 p.m. today and Saturday Centennial High School, 12400 McMillan Road. The musical is about a young prince and princess who are forced to live in an enchanted castle. However, the two are sent to the woods and must find true love before returning. Admission is $5, available at the door. CALDWELL — “A Little Princess” presented by Dreamweaver Musical Theatre, 7 p.m. Jewett Auditorium, The College of Idaho, 2112 Cleveland Blvd. “A Little Princess” follows the story of a young wealthy girl who is treated
pa, died, Tuesday, March 25, 2014, at her home. The family has placed trust in Alsip & Persons Funeral Chapel, Nampa for their final arrangements. (208) 466-3545
like a princess. However, her father passes away leaving the young girl to work as a servant. Tickets are $10, $7/student and senior, $5/children, available at dreamweavermusicaltheatre. org.
Saturday MERIDIAN — 6th Annual “Luck O’ the Irish” Casino Night, 5:30-11 p.m., gymnasium of the Church of Holy Nativity, 828 W. Cherry Lane. The event, catered to those 18 and over, will include door prizes and an Albertson’s Boise Open ticket. Tickets are $15 and include play money and door prizes/tickets. If you bring three non-perishable food items for the Meridian Food Bank, you will get $100 in play money. Some prizes include an LED TV and $500 in cash. Proceeds will benefit the Colin Steppe Fund. Colin Steppe is a current freshman at Meridian High School who underwent brain surgery to remove a tumor. After the surgery, he developed Posterior Fossa Syndrome which has made it impossible for him to talk, move and swallow. His condition is improving but still has a ways to go.
93, of Nampa, died Saturday, March 22, 2014, at her home. Services are pending Nampa Funeral Home, Yraguen Chapel. 442-8171
Lorel Pierson, 85, of Nampa,
died Sunday, March 23, 2014, at a local hospital. Arrangements are under the direction of Accent Funeral Home, Meridian. 888-5833.
Anna Torrice, 86, of Nampa, died Friday, March 21, 2014, at a Nampa hospital. Services are pending with Nampa Funeral Home, Yraguen Chapel. 442-8171 Lyman W. Webb, 86, of Nampa, died Wednesday, March 26, 2014, at his home. The family has placed trust in Alsip & Persons Funeral Chapel, Nampa for their final arrangements. (208) 466-3545
Sunday
Tuesday
BOISE — Spring break with Birds of Prey, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. World Center for Birds of Prey, 5668 W. Flying Hawk Lane. The World Center for Birds of Prey will offer discounted prices and fun activities for children during spring break. Some of the activities will include bird presentations, craft projects and a scavenger hunt. A prize will be awarded to children who complete the hunt. Admission is $3-$5.
MERIDIAN — Bilingual Storytime, 10 a.m. Cherry Lane branch of Meridian Library, 1326 W. Cherry Lane. Children will have the opportunity to learn Spanish through stories and music. This is a drop-in program. MERIDIAN — PJ Storytime, 7 p.m. Cherry Lane branch of Meridian Library, 1326 W. Cherry Lane. Come and listen to a story while wearing your pajamas and slippers. This is a drop-in program for all ages.
Monday
Wednesday
MERIDIAN — Silly Song and Dance, 10:30 a.m. Silverstone Branch of Meridian Library, 3531 E. Overland Road. Young children and preschoolers can dance, stretch and sing while they increase their coordination, rhythm and self-regulation. In addition, children will learn about numbers, shapes and letters. This is a drop-in program. MERIDIAN — Coder Dojo with Mr. Freeze, 4 p.m. Silverstone Branch of Meridian Library, 3531 E. Overland Road. Teenagers can get an opportunity to learn or teach about coding. Participants are asked to bring their own laptops, iPads or share one of the chrome books. Refreshments and snacks are provided. This is a drop-in program.
MERIDIAN — Tot Time (18 months-3 years), 2:30 p.m. Cherry Lane branch of Meridian Library, 1326 W. Cherry Lane. Children will get the opportunity to dance, sing and learn through stories and music while helping children develop literacy, social and communication skills. This is a drop-in program.
Thursday MERIDIAN — Teen Make It Thursday, 3 p.m. Cherry Lane branch of Meridian Library, 1326 W. Cherry Lane. Students in grades 6-12 can make various items at the library. Necessary tools and equipment will be provided to make things from 3D printers, computer programming, robots or yarn. No sign-up is required but larger projects should attend weekly.
Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast is April 3
M
otivational speaker Coach V is the keynote speaker for the 45th annual Meridian Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast, presented by the Meridian Ministerial Fellowship. The breakfast is Thursday, April 3, at the Joint School District No. 2 administration building. The event will feature live music, special guest speakers, door prizes and a hot breakfast catered by J.B.’s Restaurant. Keynote speaker Coach V — or Viliami Tuivai — is a former Boise State University assistant football coach and director of football operations. He’s known across the country for his high-energy presentations that spur audiences on toward success in their life endeavors.
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IF YOU GO WHAT: Meridian Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast WHEN: 6:45-8 a.m., Thursday, April 3 WHERE: Joint School District No. 2 District Service Center, 1303 E. Central Drive, Meridian COST: $15 per person. Tickets are on sale at the Meridian Chamber of Commerce office, 215 E. Franklin Road.
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SCHOOLS School district will seek contractor to run busing
J Holly Beech/MP
Gateway School of Language and Culture fifth-grader Michael Ung volunteers to help Dr. Mark Harris during a presentation about health and medicine.
Students get closer look at professions during career week
F
ifth-graders squirmed in their said. “... We have so many scholarseats March 21 as they waited JOINT SCHOOL DISTRICT ships, and Idaho’s so great in really to ask Dr. Mark Harris about helping communities and providing the bone models he’d brought NO. 2 COLLEGE READINESS scholarships to go to school. And I in for his presentation. think everybody has that shot, it’s 91 percent: graduation rate Harris, a doctor with Idaho Physi- 59 percent of 2012 seniors went just whether they have people in cal Medicine and Rehabilitation, was to college their life to really push them in that one of several presenters during Gate- 12,600: number of college credits direction.” way School of Language and Culture’s Gateway, she said, hopes to be earned by high school students in new College & Career week. Students that nudge and support for students. also heard from a K9 police officer, 2012-13 Though fifth-graders were the $7 million: amount of college nurse, banker, dentist, cheese maker, ones who interacted with professioncollege recruiter and high school se- scholarships awarded to 2012 grads als, all K-5 classes at the school took niors. part in College & Career Week events, “It’s fun. I like learning about the SOURCE: Joint School District No. 2 such as fun dress-up themes each people and what they do,” fifth-grader day of the week. Teachers decorated Michael Ung said. “… It’s fun to conthe outside of their classrooms with themes from sider if you want to be what they are.” their alma maters. Planting that seed in students’ minds is exactly “We wanted to expand it a little more so the kinwhat career week is all about, Gateway school coundergarteners and the younger ages could get that feelselor Michelle Gallegos said. ing of college,” Gallegos said. “When the professional starts telling them about The idea for College & Career Week at Gateway their journey, I think it touches home,” she said. “(Students) start to think, ‘Oh, wow, this is a possibil- stemmed from Joint School District No. 2’s focus on AVTC – Overview preparing students to continue their education after ity. How do I do it?’” In-network insurance AVTC – Overview Earlier inwith the month, fifth-grade students sent let- high school, she said. Computer lab teacher Elaine Phares was instruters and survey questions to local professionals Cost-effective assessment, 1 visit whose In-network with insurance jobs interested them. The responses were posted in a mental in getting students’ letters and questions to professionals. The classes heard back from a race car Cost-effective 1 visit creative displayassessment, in a school hallway. “The major thing that I really wanted to focus on driver, zookeeper, video game designer, veterinarian, is regardless of the population, regardless of where the Ada County sheriff and more professionals across you come from, if you believe in yourself and you occupations. have people in your life to support you and believe “It’s such a great kudos to these adults who are takin you, you can really achieve anything,” Gallegos ing time to write back,” Phares said
oint School District No. 2, unlike neighboring school districts, runs its own busing system. But that could change at the start of next school year. The district will soon seek bids from private companies to run busing operations, which serves about one-third of the district’s students each year. “We’re trying to fix a service that’s been degraded during the downturn,” Joint School District No. 2 spokesman Eric Exline said. Because its transportation funding from the state has dropped by almost $2 million since 2008, the district can’t offer the same level of busing service that it used to. by Holly Beech About 200 bus routes have hbeech@mymeridianpress.com been cut. Midday kinder© 2014 MERIDIAN PRESS garten busing was eliminated three years ago, which means an estimated 150 kindergarten-age children wait until first grade to go to school, Exline said. Cutting midday busing also means that bus drivers work fewer hours each day, making it tough to retain drivers, he said. “We’ve consistently been 30 to 40 drivers short on any given day,” Exline said. This means that sometimes supervisors have to fill in. One day the shortage was so bad that Exline, the district’s communications manager who happens to have a commercial driver’s license, stepped in and drove. The hope is that contracting with a private company will restore bus services and routes, help retain drivers and lead to a newer fleet of buses. “The other issue is that during the downturn we have not been able to buy many buses, so our fleet has gotten old,” Exline said. The request for bids will likely go out in mid-April. If no contractor can provide a better level of service at the same rate the district is currently paying for busing, then no contract will be made, Exline said. “If we can’t find a contract for what we’re spending now, we won’t do it,” he said. “We have no more transportation money to spend.”
DRIVERS ‘UNDERSTANDABLY CONCERNED’ About 275 people work for the district’s busing operations, 200 of whom are drivers. If the district contracts with a private company, these employees would no longer work for the district, but they could potentially keep their jobs through the contractor. “This is kind of unsettling for (employees), and I understand that, because there’s some uncertainty,” Exline said. “...Our expectation — and what we’ve been told — is they will get jobs with the contractor. They will need our drivers, they will need our supervisors, they will need our mechanics. There isn’t an available pool of employees like that.” The district pays its drivers a wage comparable to what contractors pay, Exline said. “We’re trying to reassure (employees) that we have their best interest in mind,” he said.
JOINT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 2 BUSING OPERATIONS $9.5 million: transportation budget from the state, down from $11.3 million in 2008 12,500: average number of students who ride the bus each year 331: number of bus routes, down 200 routes and 1,400 stops since 2008 200: number of bus drivers 30-40: shortage of bus drivers each day 4.5 hours a day: average work load for each driver, down by about 2 hours $11.25/hour: starting wage for drivers 21 years: age of some of the district’s buses 15: typical number of new buses the district used to buy each year, which now has dropped to about two to three buses a year. SOURCE: Joint School District No. 2 spokesman Eric Exline
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Superintendent takes 21st trip to China
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oint School District No. 2 Superintendent Linda Clark took her 21st trip to China this week to observe an international student symposium in Shanghai. “There’s a group of superintendents and educators who have been asked come and observe the program as advisors,” Clark said. The six-day trip took place during spring break and was on her own dime. Clark’s passion for China can be seen the instant you walk into her office, where more than 100 different pandas line her shelves, most of them gifts. She first visited China in 1978 as a tourist. Seven years later, she returned to China to complete her doctoral research on the role of education, economics and government on by Holly Beech the process of social change. “In the mid-80s there hbeech@mymeridianpress.com wasn’t any place in the © 2014 MERIDIAN PRESS world changing more rapidly or more visibly than China,” she said. “I was fascinated by the culture — it’s like the other side of the mirror of ours. And I was really hooked when I went as a tourist.” Clark has also led 15 groups through the People to People Ambassador program, visiting the Soviet Union, South Africa, Brazil, Cuba and Egypt. The trips focused on the issues women face in society. A born-and-raised Idahoan, Clark said traveling has broadened her worldview. “I’ve been very blessed to be able to go a lot of places, meet a lot of people,” she said. The school district provides students with opportunities to learn about other cultures, such as through the Gateway School of Language and Culture, where K-5 students can learn Mandarin. Clark, 64, has been the district’s superintendent for 10 years. C M Y K
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SPORTS
Tournaments mark beginning of spring IDAHO SPORTING GOODS SOFTBALL SHOOTOUT PARTICIPATING TEAMS Blackfoot Boise Bonneville Borah Caldwell Capital Centennial Century Damonte Ranch (Nev.) Eagle Emmett Fruitland Hillcrest Homedale Idaho Falls Jerome Kuna Madison Meridian Middleton Mountain View Nampa Ontario (Ore.) Orofino Pocatello Rigby Rocky Mountain Skyline Skyview Timberline Vallivue
LOCAL SCHEDULES
Annual baseball, softball tournaments let teams test themselves
BUCKS BAGS BASEBALL SPRING CLASSIC
T
he calendar says the spring sports season started March 12. But the season doesn’t fully start until the Idaho Sporting Goods and Bucks Bags tournaments kick off. The Idaho Sporting Goods Softball Shootout attracts 29 teams from Idaho, and a team each from Oregon and Nevada, to five sites throughout the valley. All five Meridian schools will compete in four games over the weekend. The Bucks Bags Baseball Spring Classic draws 24 squads from Idaho and two from Oregon. Centennial, Eagle and Meridian will all get four games in three days, allowing those teams to stretch their rotations and test their depth. Mountain View instead opted to head for out-ofstate competition in Arizona. And Rocky Mountain spent its nonconference games on a mid-March trip to Twin Falls.
Adam Eschbach/MP
Meridian’s Zach Toney throws a Vallivue runner out at first base March 18 at Meridian High School. The Warriors will take on four nonconference opponents in three days — Burley, Skyline, Highland and Pocatello — giving Meridian an early preview of what it takes to win in either the district or state tournaments.
PARTICIPATING TEAMS
LOCAL SCHEDULES
Blackfoot Boise Borah Burley Caldwell Canyon Ridge Capital Centennial Century Crescent Valley (Ore.) Eagle Fruitland Highland Hillcrest Idaho Falls Jerome Kuna Madison Meridian Middleton Minico Nampa Ontario (Ore.) Pocatello Skyline Skyview
Centennial
REPORT RESULTS Coaches or statisticians are encouraged to report their scores and statistics by calling 465-8111 or by emailing sports@idahopress .com.
All games at Centennial High Thursday vs. Madison, 6 p.m. Friday vs. Crescent Valley (Ore.), 1 p.m. vs. Ontario (Ore.), 6 p.m. Saturday vs. Highland, 10:30 a.m.
Eagle All games at Eagle High Thursday vs. Highland, 6 p.m. Friday vs. Burley, 1 p.m. vs. Fruitland, 6 p.m. Saturday vs. Hillcrest, 1 p.m.
Meridian Thursday vs. Burley, 3:30 p.m. at Eagle High Friday vs. Skyline, 1 p.m at Rodeo Park, Nampa. vs. Highland, 3:30 p.m. at Rodeo Park, Nampa Saturday vs. Pocatello, 10:30 a.m. at Eagle High
Centennial All games at Centennial High Friday vs. Rigby, 10 a.m. vs. Homedale, 2 p.m. Saturday vs. Blackfoot, 10 a.m. vs. Emmett, 4 p.m.
Eagle All games at Borah High Friday vs. Blackfoot, noon vs. Skyview, 2 p.m. Saturday vs. Pocatello, 10 a.m. vs. Century, 2 p.m.
Meridian All games at Meridian High Friday vs. Fruitland, 10 a.m. vs. Pocatello, 4 p.m. Saturday vs. Damonte Ranch (Nev.), 10 a.m. vs. Caldwell, 4 p.m.
Mountain View All games at Meridian High Friday vs. Skyline, 10 a.m. vs. Fruitland, 2 p.m. Saturday vs. Damonte Ranch (Nev.), noon vs. Caldwell, 2 p.m.
Rocky Mountain All games at Rocky Mtn. High Friday vs. Nampa, 10 a.m. vs. Caldwell, 4 p.m. Saturday vs. Jerome, 10 a.m. vs. Skyline, 4 p.m.
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Centennial’s Ryan Murkle drops to a knee to smother a grounder March 24 in a game against Rocky Mountain at Rocky Mountain High. The Patriots fell to the Grizzlies in eight innings. But the Bucks Bags Spring Classic provides Centennial the opportunity to rebound with four games in three days.
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ON THE TOWN FAMILY HUB
Final shows for classic musical ‘Guys and Dolls’
get involved WHAT: Meridian ATA Martial Arts CLASSES: Karate for Kids, Krav Maga, Kickboxing, Adult Martial Arts and Leadership Submitted photo
CONTACT:
Taekwondo class with co-owner Jim Neitzell.
Meridian ATA teaches respect, good citizenship to students of all ages
H
usband and wife team Heather and Jim Neitzell have been teaching children, adults and families martial arts for over a decade through their Meridian ATA martial arts studio. Although self-defense and physical discipline is the core of the American Taekwondo Association’s lessons, the foundation is really one of respect for the community and fellow human beings, said Heather Neitzell. “We go into the public schools all the time and it breaks my heart to see a teacher standing there by Ginny Kier Eggleston dealing with a kid who has no respect for his elnews@mymeridianpress.com ders, or his seniors or his teachers,” she said. © 2014 MERIDIAN PRESS Heather is a fourth degree black belt and will be testing for her fifth degree with her husband this summer. The couple became involved in the ATA when their children began attending ATA classes at a Boise martial arts studio in the late ‘90s. The Boise ATA studio was co-owned and operated by a husband and wife. Unfortunately, the husband died, leaving his wife to handle the studio on her own. In 2003, the Neitzells bought the business from her. In 2004, they moved the business
GETPUZZLED SOLUTIONS Puzzles on page 10
Bananagrams:
Local children perform ‘Hairy Tale Rock’
BOISE — Meridian Cue will present its musical comedy “Hairy Tale Rock” at 7 p.m. BrainSnack © 2014 PeterFrank t.v. Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc. 03/29/14 tonight and Saturday at Cento Meridian. Train Your Brain tennial High School, 12400 W. McMillan Road. Heather said Meridian ATA isn’t only a taekwondo studio. level The plot follows a bratty “We run an after school program, summer camps and spring break camps,” she said. prince and princess, two peasant children and two sibThe Neitzells also teach kickboxing and Krav Maga at their studio. Additionally, they partner Peregrine Elementary School to lings. The prince and princess bring some aspects of their program to local children. have been subjected to the In addition to the work the Neitzells do in the studio, they also forest and must find true love collaborate with the Meridian Police Activities League (PAL) to before they are able to return bring the values of martial arts to kids who can’t afford to take to the castle. Through their classes at the studio. adventures, the audience is “Kids who can’t afford it are able to come in (through PAL) and introduced to potential love experience it. That gives back to PAL, which in turn gives back to matches like the peasant chilthe community,” Heather said. dren, who sold their family’s For the future, Heather and Jim will continue to do what they electronics to buy five magic can to foster respect in the young people of Meridian. beans. Another possible “We just want to see our program grow and to develop our inmatch are two siblings who structors so the day that we need to step out, our instructors will are stuck in an enchanted step into that place,” Heather said. castle because they refuse to cut their hair. The prince and princess will meet a big bad Which number should replace the question mark? wolf and a fairy godmother Solution 03/28/14 who makes all the rules. BrainSnack: 1. There are just as many spots in each column. Tickets are $5 and are available at the door.
Today’s Tip
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NAMPA — Music Theatre of Idaho will perform the classic musical “Guys and Dolls” at 7:30 p.m. tonight and Saturday with a 1:30 p.m. matinee Saturday at the Nampa Civic Center, 311 3rd St. S. The romantic and comedic musical will follow a group of gamblers who live in New York City. One gambler, Nathan, is desperate to secure a venue for his illegal games. Tickets are $18, available at nampaciviccenter.com or 468-2385.
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GET PUZZLED
Solution on page 8
BrainSnack
© 2014 PeterFrank t.v. Dist. by Creators Syndicate Inc.
03/28/14
Train Your Brain level
How many spots are missing on the domino with a question mark?
Solution page 8 Solutionon 03/27/14 Group 3. In all the other groups, the green olives are always located in two separate smaller groups. look per column
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PLUGGED IN Effective use of technology in classroom in your words requires creation of proper learning environment We believe that in today’s digital age, educational technology can play a positive role in preparing students for college, careers and global citizenship, and we are committed to creating the authentic learning environments that prepare students for a future whose opportunities are still evolving. However, achieving this goal is not simple. Creating the learning environments that mirror how technology is used outside the classroom is not a matter of simply giving teachers and students the latest hardware and software. Rather, creating the learning environments our students need and deserve requires that school systems undertake a fundamental cultural shift. There are several essential steps which can help facilitate the cultural shift we believe needs to take place to create modern classrooms that reflect the 21st century world. The first step is a clear articulation of the vision for the district’s learning initiatives and the steps needed to achieve them. This vision should be communicated to all stakeholders — teachers, students, parents, administrators and community members — so they can understand the goals and objectives of the initiatives. Clear articulation will help solidify goals and objectives and create a sense of unity around a common purpose. Next, school systems must devise a thoughtful, robust plan to provide educators the professional development they need to change classroom practice and integrate new digital resources. Customized, in-depth professional development empowers educators to effectively incorporate new technolo-
gies into instruction, which creates learning environments in which technology allows educators to differentiate instruction and students to take a larger role in their own learning. With a strong professional development plan in place, it is time to consider the content students will use. For a successful transition from static textbooks, it is essential that educators and students have access to high-quality, standards-based digital content that is user-friendly from any platform. Only now — with the vision, professional development and content plans in place — is a school system prepared to make decisions about how to deliver content. The answers to questions such as “How should we improve our infrastructure?” and “What type of de-
UP & DOWN
vices should be bought for students?” should be dictated by the educational goals of the learning initiative. Finally, school leaders must institute a process for measuring success and addressing deficiencies, as areas for improvement will inevitably arise. School leaders need to create a continuous feedback loop that allows them to assess progress and make adjustments, if necessary. Transforming teaching and learning with educational technologies and digital content through the steps we recommend is by no means easy. However, across the country, leaders in a diverse cross-section of school systems have embraced these steps as a road map for creating the lasting cultural change needed to create authentic digital learning environments. We encourage our colleagues in the education community to adopt these steps as their own as they create strategic plans for their districts’ learning initiatives. To achieve change that advances student achievement, districts must roll up their sleeves and engage stakeholders with their vision, empower educators with effective professional development, thoughtfully introduce new technologies and evaluate results in order to continuously improve. The time to act is now.
Linda Clark is superintendent for Meridian Joint School District No. 2. She is part of a national group of public schools superintendents who participated in the Future@Now: Road map to the Digital Transition Feb. 26 in Silver Spring, Md.
to the Treasure Valley Youth Theater and their production of Peter Pan Junior! to Common Core Standards being forced on both the students and teachers. Trying to fit all shapes of pegs into a common square hole is not the way to better education in Idaho. Just thinking what a waste of time our Idaho legislative session has been. An underfunded school system remains underfunded. Instead of paying for education with state taxes, we are forced to place the burden on the homeowners in the form of a bond. The inadequate wages many must accept once again go unnoticed by the good ol’ boy Congress. Equal rights issues are treated with an approach that is reminiscent of Selma, Alabama, in the 60’s. If it wasn’t bought and paid for by the NRA, dairymen or Ranchers of Idaho, it was overlooked. In regards to the Meridian School District looking to contract out its busing services: just wondering how many dollars could be saved by having middle and high school students walk home during Daylight Saving time. to Southwest airlines for offering nonstop service to Los Angeles from Boise.
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GENERAL
Looking for style and substance The Idaho Press-Tribune copy editor/page designer Salary range: $24,000 to $26,000 The Idaho Press-Tribune is seeking a copy editor/page designer who has style and substance. The successful candidate for this position will help edit local and wire stories, design local, wire and sports pages, put together sports box scores and proof pages. We are looking for someone to design compelling news and sports pages and also make sure headlines and copy are free of errors. The ideal candidate will have experience with page layout, mastery of AP style and knowledge of design principles. Proficiency at Adobe InDesign, Quark, or Pagemaker is required. Preferred qualifications include a high level of design ability and extensive experience with Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, as well as a proficiency at creating graphics and photo illustrations. Applicant should be able to work quickly and efficiently to lay out multiple news and sports pages a day in a creative, deadline-intensive environment.
Digital Sales Professional
Advertising Sales Representative
Are you an entrepreneur looking to help businesses dive into the Digital world? Have you been described as energetic and a “go getter�? Does the idea of going to work each day in a �Google� work environment appeal to you? Then apply today to be a key member of Treasure Valley Connext. We are a cutting edge, digital agency that partners with local businesses to help build their digital business. We seek an experienced Digital Sales Professional to consult a great group of local businesses. You must be a Digital evangelist who can keep up with a fast paced, fast growing company. Strong sales skills required. Experience in the Digital space preferred. A desire to make a lot of money and never be satisfied with your income necessary. Full benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision and Paid Vacation. Give yourself a raise by emailing your resume to asammons@tvconnext.com.
Do you have a solid understanding of Advertising Sales and Digital Marketing? Do you understand the needs of local business owners? Do you enjoy working in a fast paced, deadline driven environment? Can you spend the majority of your day in front of customers building relationships? If you answered YES to all these questions we would like to meet you. We are a local privately owned company that has been doing business in the Treasure Valley for 130 years. We are well respected and well known. We are a leader in providing local information and advertising solutions to local business. In this role you will work closely with local businesses to develop marketing plans and prospect new advertisers. This is a wonderful opportunity to sell a host of robust proven advertising solutions in both print, digital and social media. We need a professional sales executive who is motived to achieve success everyday. We provide an outstanding work environment, training, support, resources, a competitive base salary and a monthly bonus program with uncapped earning potential. We provide a computer, a tablet and expense reimbursement for mileage and cell phone. We also offer a full suite of benefits including health, dental, life, 401k, paid vacation and sick time. You must have a valid Idaho driver's license along with a good driving record. Please email a cover letter explaining why you are the perfect fit for this opportunity with specific directly related examples of past success in a similar role. Email a cover letter and resume to jobs@idahopress.com
A minimum of two to five years sales experience is required, preferably in internet/digital environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Power Point, Word and Excel. Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
Scott McIntosh, Editor jobs@idahopress.com
HOG FEEDERS Brower-8 Door Supplemental Feeder-like new-$200. WLC Single Door hog feeder $50. 466-9080
EVER BEARING Strawberry Plants. $1.00 dozen. Call 965-4426.
Greg Granden Custom Haystacking & Retrieving 20+ Years Experience
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Hay, Grass & Straw For sale 4 Ton Minimum Call 250-1965 Thank You! aaaonlineauction.com This Auction Closes April 2nd , 6pm, Western, Americana, Indian, Advertising, and Estates, 208-794-8280, Nyssa, Oregon
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2 GALVANIZED metal oval stock tanks. 2x2x4. $60. 250-2927
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About this company Idaho Press-Tribune The roots of the Idaho Press-Tribune go back to December 1883 in Caldwell - with the first paper coming off the press just months after Caldwell was established as a city. Nampa city was established in 1885.
The Idaho Press-Tribune also publishes the Emmett Messenger-Index and the Meridian Press.
Agriculture/Auctions To place an ad in the Classifieds call 467-9253
Desired Skills and Experience Strong selling skills. Creative thinker & problem solver. Strong digital understanding. Excellent customer service and follow through. Good sense of humor.
The Idaho Press-Tribune is the second largest daily newspaper in the State of Idaho with a weekly audience reach of over 90,000 people. The Idaho Press-Tribune is owned by Pioneer News Group, a privately held, independent family owned company.
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Idaho Press-Tribune, Nampa Idaho
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BATTERY-brand new Durabilt, Interstate. Fits GM-V8 cars. $50.00 firm. 546-0072
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