EXPLORE A WINTER WONDERLAND AND OTHER HOLIDAY EVENTS, page 7
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AN EDITION OF THE IDAHO PRESS-TRIBUNE // MYMERIDIANPRESS.COM // 12.25.15
WISHING OUR READERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON!
SCHOOLS The Meridian Press speaks with former co-workers and colleagues of Mary Ann Ranells to learn more about new the West Ada School District superintendent. Plus, Ranells shares about her career, her passions and her hobbies.
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COMMUNITY Meridian residents and business professionals opened up their hearts and wallets to help make the season warm and merry for those in need. Inside, we highlight a few examples of your generosity and explain how you can continue to give back.
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CITY After collectively serving on the Meridian City Council for 25 years, David Zaremba and Charlie Rountree are retiring. This week, they reflect on their time serving on the council and look ahead to what’s next.
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SCHOOLS This year, Meridian FFA held its largest fundraising auction yet. The money will provide scholarships for the group’s senior members and travel funds for students going to state and national events.
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OPINION Meridian Press reporter Holly Beech looks back on the memorable interviews and features of 2015, from South Africa to Meridian.
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Adam Eschbach/MP
The Christmas tree lit up at Generations Plaza Tuesday night in downtown Meridian.
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TRENDING GET ON THE RADAR
Saturday
Today’s Forecast (NOAA)
Add your Treasure Valley events to the calendar at mymeridianpress/OnYourRadar
on your radar
Sunday
Monday
EXTENDED OUTLOOK
Sunny
Partly sunny
22/8
26/13
Sunny
25/17
Partly sunny
24/16
Wind NW at 5 mph
We’re looking at a chilly Christmas Day today, but temperatures will continue to be below average through the weekend. Except plenty of sunshine, though, with little chance of precipitation through early next week.
Roland Steadham
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What your stories have taught me this year A connect hbeech@mymeridianpress.com Phone: 208-465-8122 Twitter: @HollyBeechMP
s 2015 comes to an end, my mind weaves back through interviews and conversations I’ve had with the people I’ve written about this year. I think about Vidal Cole, a church leader from Sierra Leone who worked tirelessly to help people who were suffering during the Ebola crisis. He called, visited and brought food to those shunned by the community because they were stamped with the stigma of being infectious. I think about Julie Fry, a young mother from Meridian who lost her life to cancer in October. My heart aches for her two children, her husband and her mother as they go through their first Christmas season without her. I think about veteran Bill Gornik, who served in the military during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He cares about people in an unannounced but deep way. After retiring from the military, Gornik worked for Boise Cascade. He made such an impact on one of his employees that the man still brings Gornik a bottle of whiskey every Christmas season. I went back to Gornik’s house the other day to return something I had borrowed, and sure enough, there was this man, sitting with Gornik for the 35th straight year with a bottle of Jack Daniels on the table. So many amazing people come to mind when I reflect over the past 12 months. Just last week we featured a talented artist and Mountain View High School graduate, Meredith Messinger, who created a mesmerizing picture book and is donating proceeds to Make-A-Wish Idaho. Two weeks before that, we spoke with volunteers from the Meridian Valley Humane Society who have helped 630 unwanted or neglected dogs
CRIME WATCH Meridian Police Department Log
Dec. 14 1. Commercial burglary, 2400 block East Fairview Avenue 2. Arrest: no-contact order violation, unlawful entry 3. Arrest: driving without privileges (second offense), no insurance (second offense), warrant 4. Runaway, 3100 block West Fieldstream 5. Arrest: driving without privileges (third offense) 6. Citation: petit theft, 3700 block East Fairview Avenue 7. Arrest: burglary, possession of burglary tools 8. Vandalism, 1426 W. Maple Ave. 9. Grand theft auto, 600 block South Stratford Drive 10. Arrest: commercial burglary (x2), grand theft (x2) 12. Petit theft, 1500 block South Meridian Road
Dec. 15 1. Vehicle burglary, West American Fork Drive and South Spanish Fork Way 2. Arrest: driving without privileges (second offense), warrant 3. Vehicle burglary, 5100 block North Dove Ridge Place 4. Arrest: petit theft, possession of drug paraphernalia 5. Arrest: DUI, vehicle accident 6. Arrest: driving without privileges (fourth offense)
Dec. 16 1. Vehicle burglary, 5000 block North Miguel Avenue 2. Arrest: possession of drugs and paraphernalia, frequenting n Arrest: possession of drugs and paraphernalia n Arrest: frequenting n Arrest: possession of drugs and paraphernalia, intent to deliver n Arrest: possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia n Arrest: warrant, providing false information, possession of drugs and paraphernalia n Arrest: injury to child (x2) 3. Protective custody hold, 100 block West Pennwood Street 4. Vandalism, unlawful entry, 200 Block East Ustick Road 5. Grand theft, 1800 block North Greenfield Avenue 6. Disturbance, 4200 block West Dillon Drive
Dec. 17 1. Grand theft, 2800 block East Green Canyon Drive 2. Arrest: contempt warrant 3. Vandalism, Ashford Greens Subdivision 4. Grand theft, 1500 block East Overland Road 5. Aggravated assault, North Golfview Way and West Gillette Street
ROADREPORT There will be lane restrictions on Eagle Road from Victory Road to Falcon Drive while fiber n
find loving homes. This year, through our coverage of the West Ada School District, I’ve gained a greater understanding of and appreciation for people who work in the school system. They have some of the most important and influential roles in our society, and I hope they feel the appreciation they deserve. As I stop and think back over these individuals who have made such a difference in the lives of those around them, I realize that they have something in by Holly Beech common: They pause. Gornik paused to notice his employee. Messinger paused hbeech@mymeridianpress.com to paint beautiful pictures. Shelter volun- © 2015 MERIDIAN PRESS teers paused from their work and family schedules to take a dog for a walk. With this year and this holiday season flying by, I’m realizing what I want to learn from the men and women I write about. I want to learn to quiet the to-do list, the appointments, the unread emails and the stresses that tug at my mind, and I want to just pause, to allow myself to notice and hear those around me. These conversations are what make up a life, and I often miss them as I work toward the next thing. To all our readers, thank you for reading. I’ve enjoyed speaking with all of you who have reached out to me or who have said yes to being featured in our paper. I appreciate you, and I look forward to sharing more of your stories in the year ahead.
6. Commercial burglary, 3700 block East Fairview Avenue 7. Arrest: warrant 8. Arrest: petit theft 9. Petit theft, 3400 block West Cherry Lane 10. Arrest: possession of paraphernalia and controlled substance, agents warrant
Dec. 18 1. Arrest: failure to appear, Eagle Road and East Commercial Street 2. Fraud, 2800 block South Nephrite Way 3. Runaway, 500 block West Carlton Avenue 4. Arrest: warrant, resisting and obstructing, trespassing 5. Obtaining drugs by fraud, 700 block West Crosby Drive 6. Aggravated battery, 2000 block West Franklin Road 7. Arrest: petit theft, possession of drug paraphernalia 8. Arrest: DUI 9. Two arrests: DUI, open container, failure to obtain driver’s license 10. Possession of drugs, 3600 block North Watersong Drive
Dec. 19 1. Arrest: trespassing, unlawful entry, battery, injury to a child 2. Battery, 2400 block North Capecod Way 3. Assault, vandalism, destruction of telecommunication, 2600 block Quarrystone Way 4. Arrest: DUI (second offense), resisting and obstructing 5. Arrest: DUI 6. Arrest: DUI 7. Juvenile arrest: DUI 8. Commercial burglary, 1600 Block East McMillian Road 9. Arrest: DUI 10. Runaway, 1200 block Northeast Fourth Street 11. Counterfeit bill, 100 block East Idaho Avenue
Dec. 20 1. Arrest: petit theft 2. Arrest: possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, failure to purchase driver’s license. Two additional arrests: possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia 3. Protective custody hold, 2500 block South Legal Avenue 4. Arrest: petit theft 5. Vandalism, North Toscana Avenue and West Wapoot Street 6. Unattended death, 3700 East Longwing Lane 7. Commercial burglary, 3400 block East Fairview Avenue 8. Three juveniles cited: possession of marijuana and paraphernalia, encouraging, frequenting and curfew, 5400 block North Linder Road 9. Injury vehicle crash, South Eagle Road and Interstate 84
wires are placed. Flaggers will direct traffic. The expected completion date is Wednesday. n There will be lane restrictions on Linder Road from Almaden Drive to Duck Alley Road for a road rebuild project. Flaggers will direct traffic. The expected completion date is April 1. © 2015 Vol. 3, No. 7, 10 pages
An edition of the Idaho Press-Tribune
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Victory Road will be closed from Linder Road to Ten Mile Road with no access to White Pointe Lane during bridge reconstruction. The expected completion date is Jan. 15. n
TRENDING 3 Kellen Moore to make first NFL start for Dallas on Sunday
Former Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore will make his first NFL start Sunday when the Dallas Cowboys visit the Buffalo Bills. Moore made his NFL regular season debut in relief of Matt Cassel on Dec. 19 and completed 15 of 25 passes for 158 yards and a touchdown in a loss to the New York Jets. He also threw three interceptions, but one was on a Hail Mary with Dallas trailing in the final seconds. Dallas was officially eliminated from playoff contention with the loss, meaning the Cowboys can afford to take a longer look at Moore and see if he fits in the teams plans moving forward. The injured Tony Romo is established as the starter, but a strong showing from Moore in the final two games of the season could put him in position to be the backup in Dallas next season. Moore became the first former Boise State quarterback to ever take a regular season NFL snap last week. His first touchdown pass went to Dez Bryant on a 10-yard pass late in the second quarter.
SOURCE: B.J. Rains, blueturfsports.com
Unemployment rate drops to 3.9 percent for November
State officials say Idaho’s unemployment rate dropped a tenth of a percent to 3.9 percent in November. The Idaho Department of Labor announced Friday that growth in manufacturing, administrative, and leisure and hospitality in Idaho was the second fastest in the nation. The agency says the state’s workforce of just over 800,000 puts the labor force participation rate to 64.2 percent. Officials say that over the past year, Idaho’s nonfarm job growth ranked first in the nation with an increase of 4.2 percent. Officials say that resulted in a record-breaking increase of 27,600 jobs between November 2014 and this month.
SOURCE: The Associated Press
Prosecutor’s office named at National Day of Remembrance
Ada County Prosecuting Attorney Jan Bennetts was among those recognized by Idaho’s Mothers Against Drunk Driving for the efforts of her office in the handling of DUI cases. Specifically, the victim of an aggravated DUI expressed appreciation to Bennetts for the deputy prosecutors (Heather Reilly and Robby Bleazard) and victim-witness coordinator (Susan Ledford) who handled her case. This recognition came during MADD’s first ever National Day of Remembrance, which took place on Dec. 3 as part of the national MADD 35th anniversary celebration. The National Day of Remembrance honored those who have been killed or injured in crashes that resulted from drunk/drugged driving or underage drinking, as well as law enforcement officers and prosecutors who work to keep impaired drivers off of the roads. “As we work with those in law enforcement across Ada County, it becomes very evident that driving under the influence is an incredibly devastating crime,” Bennetts stated. “It impacts not only the victims who are injured, but also the families. It ripples through our community. That’s why we work so hard with law enforcement to not only prosecute these cases, but to educate people about drunk and impaired driving.” Victims and survivors gathered together Dec. 3 to present blankets in honor of loved ones who are victims of impaired driving crashes, each tied with a ribbon and tag labeled with the name of their loved one. The blankets will be placed in Idaho State Police patrol cars for future victims in need.
SOURCE: Ada County
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SCHOOLS About Mary Ann Ranells Ranells was born in Jacksonville, Florida, where her father was stationed with the U.S. Navy. She moved to Pocatello around age 9. “I really think I’m an Idaho girl,” she said. n Her dream to become a teacher sprouted in the first grade. “I had a really amazing teacher,” Ranells said, “and from that day on I wanted to be a teacher, and it never changed.” n Ranells has a 41-year career in education and a doctorate degree in educational administration from the University of Idaho. n Her first teaching job was in 1973 in Shoshone. For a total of 12 years, she taught in Nampa, Twin Falls, Wendell and in Washington. She was named Teacher of the Year four times and twice received the Idaho Association of School Administrators Leadership in Public Education Award. n While in Nampa and Twin Falls, Ranells also served as curriculum director and “wore a number of hats,” she said. n Ranells served as deputy superintendent of the Idaho Department of Education from 2001 to 2004, giving her the opportunity to visit school districts across the state. After that, she and her husband, Robert Ranells (who is the superintendent of the Wallace School District), moved to Washington, where she taught Spanish on a Native American reservation. “I had been an administrator for 19 years, and I wanted to teach again. I wanted to see if I still had the juice,” Ranells said with a smile. “Some days I was a really good teacher. Some days I was humbled to my knees.” After that, Ranells became the superintendent of the Lakeland School District in 2008, a role she held through 2014. n Ranells said having experience as a classroom teacher “helped me immensely” as an administrator. “Anything I know and love begins with building relationships,” she said. An important lesson she’s learned as a superintendent, she said, is the idea of “reciprocal accountability.” “Teachers are held accountable every day. You don’t have to have a manual to tell you that, just be in a classroom with a number of kids. … There isn’t anything out there that will hold you more accountable,” Ranells said. “But for me as an administrator, I’m accountable to the staff, and not just the teachers, but to everyone who works in the system. I’m accountable, if they need something, I need to find a way to support their good work.” n Art and music education and extracurricular activities are “near and dear” to Ranells’ heart, she said, noting that she can play the clarinet, the oboe, the English horn and the guitar. Educating students means preparing them to be “college, career and citizen ready,” she said. “You can’t do that without the arts,” she said. “That’s part of the fabric of our country, of who we are and where we live.” A complete education, she said, also prepares students to be lifelong learners, to be resilient, to have grit, to fail and try again and to be compassionate. n Ranells has published a number of articles and blogs and has contributed to education-related books. n Ranells’ hobbies include golfing, reading and baking. “I like to play with our grandkids more than anything else,” she said. Ranells has four grown children and eight grandchildren — “and they’re phenomenal,” she said. She has a daughter, son-in-law and two grandsons in Nampa. n
Ranells’ former school district says West Ada is ‘lucky to have her’ Idaho educator Mary Ann Ranells will start in new role as West Ada School District superintendent after winter break
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n northern Idaho’s Lakeland School District, former superintendent Mary Ann Ranells took pride in knowing almost every employee by name, Lakeland’s Assistant Superintendent Lisa Sexton said. Ranells would stop by classrooms and ask how teachers and their families were doing. “She makes you feel like you’ve known her forever,” Sexton said. “If you need to sit down and talk to her, she gives you her full attention and makes you feel like you’re the most important person.” Being on a first-name basis with employees will be more of challenge in the West Ada School District, which has about 10 times the number of students that Lakeland has. But, according to Sexton, there’s no one more qualified than Ranells for the task. “They are so lucky to have her,” said Sexton, who served as a principal in Lakeland while Ranells was superinby Holly Beech hbeech@mymeridianpress.com tendent. “When Mary Ann left, © 2015 MERIDIAN PRESS she left a little bit of a hole because she just is bigger than life and just a genuinely warm, caring person and has so many strengths when it comes to education.” Before leading Lakeland, Ranells taught English, Spanish and reading for 12 years in grades seven through 12. She was also a principal, an administrator of curriculum and special education, and the deputy superintendent of the Idaho Department of Education. “She understands paying attention to the standards and making sure we know if students understand,” Sexton said. Ranells retired from Lakeland in 2014 for family reasons, Sexton said. Though Lakeland employees understood Ranells’ situation, they were sad to see her go. “She had that way of bringing people together and making people feel like we’re all an important part of this amazing team and we’re going great places,” Sexton said. “And the kids were always the focal point.” Empowering students was the core of Ranells’ message when she toured the West Ada School District earlier this month. She talked about the importance of not only giving a child academic skills, but teaching them to be lifelong learners, to be compassionate and to have the grit to fail and try again. “What’s most important in my heart is always kids,” Ranells said at a Dec. 14 forum with West Ada employees. Throughout her career, Ranells has worked with students outside of the classroom, too. She advised the Spanish club and coached basketball, volleyball, drill team and cheerleading. (Ranells learned Spanish as a student at Pocatello High School and minored in Spanish in college at Idaho State University.) Since her retirement from Lakeland, Ranells traveled to school districts in and outside of Idaho as a consultant, including training school boards for the Idaho School Boards Association. ISBA Executive Director Karen Echeverria said the association chose to contract with Ranells because of her experience and her
Greg Kreller/MP
West Ada School District superintendent candidate Mary Ann Ranells hugs her grandson Pierson Deming, 12, of Nampa, following the Tuesday evening school board meeting where Ranells answered questions from the public. Ranells’ hire also gained support from the Meridian Education Association — the local arm of the teachers union — and the Northwest Professional Educators, a non-union teacher association. “This is a great opportunity to put the last few months behind us and work together to ensure that West Ada continues to be one of the most successful districts in the state,” MEA President Kendra Wisenbaker said in an email.
SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT As of print time, the West Ada School District and incoming Superintendent Mary Ann Ranells had not established her salary or the details of her contract. Learn how the district plans to proceed in this area on page 6.
reputation. “She’s been a superintendent (in north Idaho) for a long time. She’s well thought of,” LEADING THROUGH THE RECESSION Echeverria said. “She’s very nice and kind and Ranells was superintendent of the Lakegenerous, and I think she understands education law in Idaho really well. And because of land School District when the economic reall those things, I think people look to her for cession hit and school districts’ began to lose state funding. advice.” “We had several meetings. I told the staff no one was going to lose their job,” Ranells LOCAL SUPPORT said. She said the district was true to that After months of deep ravines and split promise, but vacant positions were left unviews among West Ada’s board members, the filled and salaries remained stagnant. choice to hire Ranells was one supported by “For teachers who were brand new, it was all five trustees. just horrible,” she said. “I had a comfort level, even though it was a In 2012, Lakeland was one of at least 21 pretty, I’d say, rapid pace,” said Trustee Mike school districts in Idaho that failed to reach Vuittonet, the only board member to speak an agreement with local teachers unions, acagainst the board’s treatment of former Su- cording to a report from the Associated Press. perintendent Linda Clark. Ranells was hired That year, new school reform laws in Idaho less than two months after Clark’s tumultu- allowed these districts to impose contract ous departure. terms without negotiating. “I wanted to be in support of the new su“There’s that sort of hopelessness of not perintendent, and I was hoping that I could being part of the process and being accused be,” Vuittonet said. “And … (Ranells) actually of being part of the problem, which is frustratmanifested so much experience. She knows ing,” a high school teacher in the Lakeland so many people in the district, which I think School District told the AP. was an advantage for her. She’s had a lot of reWhen reflecting back on that situation, lationships with many of the administrators, Ranells told the Meridian Press: “When I talkand she has a knowledge base of many of the ed to the staff, they were upset more with the things a superintendent needs to have.” state than they were us. But I would say it was West Ada board Chairwoman Tina Dean very true from 2009 through just a couple of said the board quickly recognized Ranells years ago, when we started to get a little more as one of the best candidates out there. She funding, ... the teachers had every right to feel would not say how many people applied for that way.” the job. “It was very evident that there would be no better candidate, so we did not see any need to delay our decision,” she said.
LISTEN UP
TREASURE
VALLEY!
Jacquie Elcox, BC-HIS
Total-Body Health and Hearing (Part 3 of 8):
Cognitive Impairment
Increasingly, researchers are discovering that people suffering from hearing loss aren’t just hearing poorly, they’re also experiencing a wide range of other related symptoms. These symptoms include feelings of isolation and depression, physical fatigue, reduced mobility, and cognitive decline. Each year new studies highlight a link between hearing loss and an increased likelihood of cognitive decline. The cause of this link remains uncertain, but it’s becoming harder to overlook. Happily, just as hearing loss can speed cognitive decline as we age, hearing aids can slow and even reverse this mental degradation. Adults who use hearing aids have no greater risk of depression or cognitive decline than adults with perfect hearing, and they overwhelmingly report more fulfilling lives and improved relationships with loved ones.
To learn more about the personal impacts of hearing loss, visit TreasureValleyHearing.com/blog. Watch for more topics on Total-Body Health and Hearing in Listen Up, Treasure Valley! Call today to schedule an appointment! Boise • Meridian • Nampa
208.514.3898
Greg Kreller/MP
Mary Ann Ranells accepted a superintendent job offer from the West Ada School District Dec. 15, following a two-day tour of the district, community and staff forums and a roughly two-hour executive session interview.
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LOCAL NEWS ICE SKATING at THE V ILL AGE Now through February 15th*
*Weather permitting — Pricing and Hours on Facebook
DOG OF THE WEEK
Boise - Colorado Eagles vs. Idaho Steelheads, CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd Boise - UC Davis Aggies at Boise State Broncos Basketball, 7:00pm, Taco Bell Arena 1401 Bronco Ln
CAL15-0026_VHC_newspaper-ad_9-83x1-5.indd 1
Paige is a 1-year-old blue heeler/border collie mix filled with fun, fun, fun! This girl is as smart as she is pretty. Paige needs to be in a home with no children under the age of 15. It’s reported that Paige has been through some training classes and knows sit, stay/ wait, come, bed/crate, up (to load in the car) and down (not to jump up). Paige does well with other dogs and cats, however she does tend to try to herd the other animals, so she would be better as the only pet in the house. She can be a little timid at first, but warms up quickly and then is very free with the kisses and affection. Paige loves to play ball and Frisbee and can also be fond of chasing her own tail on occasion. Paige enjoys a varied diet and loves to eat carrots, apples and tomatoes, but also needs to be on a food without any fish products because of allergies. She is treat-motivated and easily trained, but she needs an active owner that is familiar with the herding breeds. Paige is spayed and microchipped. If you have had herding breeds before or are looking for a great working dog, stop by the rescue between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. any day of the week to meet this amazing girl. The Meridian Valley Humane Society is located at 191 N. Linder Road in Meridian and may be reached at 794-0944.
New Year’s Eve Saturday Nampa - Christmas Tree Recycle Program, St. Paul’s Church - Dempsey Hall 1515 8th. Street S Boise - Grizzlies vs. Idaho Steelheads, CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd Boise - Open Climb Time, 6:00pm, Boise Rock Gym at the Wings Center 1875 Century Way Wings Center Boise - Utah Grizzlies vs. Idaho Steelheads, CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd
Sunday Boise - Oklahoma City Blue vs. Idaho Stampede, , CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd
Monday
CIVICCALENDAR
p.m. for New Year’s Eve.
Meridian’s post-Christmas unlimited trash pick-up week runs Monday through Jan. 1. Residents are asked to place their Christmas wrapping and trappings out on their customary trash collection day. Undecorated Christmas trees will also be accepted if cut into sections less than 4-feet each.
Meridian City Hall closed for New Year’s Day.
Monday
Tuesday Meridian City Council will not meet this week, as it is the fifth Tuesday of the month.
Thursday Meridian City Hall closes at 3
Jan. 1
Note: The West Ada School District is on holiday break, and no school board meetings were planned for this week as of print time. School resumes Jan. 4, and the next regularly scheduled school board meeting is Jan. 12. To check agendas and meeting times for Meridian city commissions, visit meridiancity.org and click on the “City Government” tab, then under “Get Involved” click on “Commissions & Committees.”
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Boise - Brrrr! - Winter Break Camp, 9:00am, Discovery Center of Idaho 131 W Myrtle St
Meridian - Coffee with the Mayor of Meridian, 8:00am, MGM Property Management 289 SW 5th Ave City of Meridian
Tuesday Nampa - Blood Drive, 2:00pm, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 1500 Smith Ave. Nampa - Hibernate, Migrate, or Insulate: A Wildlife Winter Survival Guide, 1:00pm, Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge 13751 Upper Embankment Road $0.00
Wednesday Boise - Boise State Broncos Mens Basketball vs. Uc Davis Mens Basketball, 7:00pm, Taco Bell Arena 1401 Bronco Ln Boise - Chanting and New Year Affirmations, 6:30pm, Breath of Consciousness 7235 ste. B Potomac Dr.
Nampa - Blood Drive, 10:00am, Karcher Mall 1509 Caldwell Blvd. Nampa - Community Dance, 7:00pm, Nampa Senior Center 207 Constitution Way $5.00
Jan. 2 Boise - Boise State Broncos Mens Basketball vs. Colorado State Rams Mens Basketball, 7:00pm, Taco Bell Arena 1401 Bronco Ln Boise - Colorado State Rams at Boise State Broncos Basketball, 10:00pm, Taco Bell Arena 1401 Bronco Ln Boise - Handweavers Guild of Boise Valley Meeting, 11:30pm, Joann Fabric 1085 N Milwaukee (2nd Floor) $0.00
Jan. 5 Nampa - Kilroy Coffee Klatch, 10:00am, War Hawk
11/4/15 2:05 PM Air Museum 201 Municipal Drive Boise - Soul Gym: Neuroscientific Experiential Conversation, 6:30pm, Full Steam Bistro 951 E. Front Street
Jan. 6 Boise - Idaho Job Fair, 9:00am, Sapphire Room at the Riverside 2900 Chinden Blvd. $0.00 Boise - Smart Success Networking Party #SSBNBoise, 6:00pm, Legends Pub & Grill 7609 W Overland Rd Ste 100
Jan 8 Boise - IDAHO LAUGH FEST, The Egyptian Theatre 700 West Main Street Nampa - NARFE National Active and Retired Federal Employees, 12:00pm, Eagles Lodge 118 11th Ave N $0.00 Boise - PARSONS DANCE, 8:00pm, Morrison Center for the Performing Arts 2201 W Cesar Chavez Ln Nampa - Rollie Lane Wrestling Tournament, 9:00am, Ford Idaho Center 16200 Idaho Center Blvd $11.00 Boise - The Servant of Two Masters, 8:00pm, Boise Little Theater 100 E Fort St
for Meridian Press must be placed by your mortuary or at selfserve.idahopress.com. Deadline is 3 p.m. WednesDEATHS Alldaysobituaries for Friday publication. If you have questions, call 467-9253.
Oliver Harmon Adams, 92, Ruthann Lea Caylor, 93, of of Meridian, died Sunday, Dec. 20, Boise, died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2015, 2015, at a local care center of natural at her home of natural causes. Funeral causes. Funeral Home: Relyea Funeral Home: Cremation Society of Idaho. Chapel James Edgar Ferrell, 56, of Barbara Benner, 72, of Merid- Boise, died Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, ian, died Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2015, at at a local hospital of natural causes. her home. Funeral Home: Accent Fu- Funeral Home: Relyea Funeral Chapel. neral Home, Meridian.
Sheri Denise Hogg, 40, of F. Louise Musgrave, 84, of Meridian, died Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015 Meridian, died Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015, at a local hospital of natural causes. at a local hospital. Funeral Home: AcFuneral Home: Relyea Funeral Chapel cent Funeral Home, Meridian Thomas P. Kerbein,
72, of David Pillott, 77, of Eagle, died Boise, died Thursday, Dec. 17, 2015, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015, at his home. in Boise. Funeral Home: Potter Funeral Funeral Home: Accent Funeral Home, Chapel Emmett. Meridian
GET PUZZLED
Solution on page 7
Fill in the blank cells using numbers 1 to 9. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and 3x3 block. Use logic and process of elimination to solve the puzzle. The difficulty level ranges from Bronze (easiest) to Silver to Gold (hardest).
Rating: Silver. Solution on page 7 C M Y K
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Merry Christmas to the communities we serve
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LOCAL NEWS
City bids farewell to retiring councilmen Rountree, Zaremba
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avid Zaremba stunned his wife nine years ago when he sought to be on the Meridian City Council. As a “certified introvert,” being in front of people wasn’t in his comfort zone, he said. Now, approaching retirement, Zaremba is glad he took the chance. “Having gotten out of my shell, going door to door during the campaign and talking to people has really been a rewarding experience,” he said. “The opportunity to help guide how Meridian grows was actually fun.” Zaremba and fellow Councilman Charlie Rountree are retiring after their term is up at the end of this year — though Zaremba will serve at the Jan. 5 meeting because his replacement can’t be there. With these retirements, the council loses two members who have a combined 25 years’ experience on the council and a deep understanding of transportation issues. Rountree worked at the Idaho Transportation Department for 32 years, including as deputy director, and Zaremba and his brother run a company that provides transportation for major events across the U.S. — including the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The city held a farewell party for Rountree and Zaremby Holly Beech hbeech@mymeridianpress.com ba before Tuesday’s council meeting. The clerk teared up while calling role. © 2015 MERIDIAN PRESS “It’s hard,” Rountree said, “but my shelf life had been reached, so it was time for me to go and take a rest and see if there’s some other opportunities that I might be able to help in the community and the Treasure Valley.” Mayor Tammy de Weerd said she first worked with Rountree on the Meridian Parks Commission — a commission that he helped create. “I don’t think there’s anything in this city that (Rountree) hasn’t had a profound impact on in bringing this to the level of efficiency and services to our citizens that we provide today,” De Weerd said. “David, I just can’t thank you enough for your involvement. Your ideas really helped develop solid policy and process and clarity so that when people come in to develop in this community, … they knew the expectations.” Zaremba said he is most proud of the way the council has handled rapid growth, allowing Meridian to keep a small-town feel while offering the advantages of a bigger city. He hopes to see more public transportation options for residents in the future. “Being able to grow and to absorb the growth and to manage the growth — and now start to get ahead of the growth a little bit — is really what makes Meridian a pleasant place to live,” Zaremba said. An accomplishment that made Rountree proud was Meridian’s resent designation in a 24/7 Wall St. study as the best place in America to live. “We’ve matured from that small town that I first was involved in back in 1995 to a real city with staff and administration that really care about the city and are moving it forward,” he said. Anne Little Roberts, the Meridian Chamber of Commerce executive director, and Ty Palmer were elected in November to fill Zaremba and Rountree’s seats, respectively. They join returning council members Joe Borton, Genesis Milam and Luke Cavener.
Photos by Adam Eschbach/MP
Meridian City Councilman Charlie Rountree, top, is retiring, as well as councilman David Zaremba. “I hope they keep the congenial way that council works together,” Rountree said. “That’s reflective of how the city works and works together cooperatively in a manner that’s civil. We might disagree on topics, but we all come out and support what the majority opinion is, and we don’t have any naysaying and infighting, and I would hope that the council would continue that.”
SCHOOLS Mary Ann Ranells’ Lakeland contract had $111K salary, few fringe benefits
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Call or visit any of our financial advisors in the Meridian area. To find an Edward Jones office near you, visit www.edwardjones.com. Calvin Barrett, CFP® 1693 S Spring Valley Lane Suite 110 208-887-1787 Jason F Besse 1500 W Cayuse Creek Dr Suite 175 208-288-3288 Derek Busby, AAMS® 1801 N Lakes Place Suite 150 208-855-5792
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ary Ann Ranells, hired Dec. 15 as the next superintendent of the West Ada School District, earned $111,440 as superintendent of the Lakeland School District in 2013-14. The West Ada school board has not established Ranells’ salary or contract yet, but board Chairwoman Tina Dean said Ranells’ salary will be in the ballpark of recent superintendent salaries in the West Ada and Boise school districts. West Ada’s former superintendent, Linda Clark, who resigned in October, earned $143,475. by Holly Beech hbeech@mymeridianpress.com B o i s e School © 2015 MERIDIAN PRESS District Super i ntendent Don Coberly earns $162,342. Lakeland has about 4,200 students, compared to more than 37,000 students in West Ada and about 26,000 students in Boise. Ranells, like Clark, has worked in education for about 40 years and has a doctorate degree in education. Clark’s contract and fringe benefits came under harsh criticism by the two West Ada trustees elected in May, Julie Madsen and Russell Joki. The district provided Clark with benefits including a $100,000 life insurance policy; full dental, health and vision insurance; 25 vacation days; a district credit card for business-related expenses; a district vehicle for official or personal use; PERSI (retirement) contributions; covered expenses for travel and events related to professional duties and development; and a bonus of 20 percent of annual salary upon retirement. Because the board terminated
MORE ONLINE View Mary Ann Ranell’s most recent Lakeland School District superintendent contract and Linda Clark’s most recent West Ada School District contract on the Meridian Press website through this shortened link: goo.gl/FIiI3H Clark’s contract rather than accept her resignation, the details of the payouts have yet to be worked out. The school board’s attorney, William “Breck” Seiniger, has said the fringe benefits of the contract are invalid because they were never approved by the state superintendent of public instruction. Idaho Department of Education spokesman Jeff Church declined to comment on the legality of revised superintendent contracts that aren’t approved by the state superintendent. Lakeland used the template provided by the state for Ranells’ 2013-14 contract, Lakeland Assistant Superintendent Lisa Sexton said. The benefits on the contract are: ability to accrue one sick day per month; covered expenses for travel and events related to professional duties and development, as worked out by the board; health and dental insurance; and life insurance. Dean said the West Ada school board “will receive a proposed contract to vote on when one is reached by the attorneys and Dr. Ranells.” Dean expects the board to vote on the contract at its next meeting Jan. 12, unless the board calls a special meeting before then. Ranells led the Lakeland district from 2008 to 2014, when she resigned for personal reasons related to her family, according to Sexton. She begins her role with West Ada at the beginning of January. C M Y K
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ON THE TOWN ON Mix it up with fun local events this holiday season THE L SIDE Today Boise - Charles Dickens’, A Christmas Carol. Tune in at 6 p.m. to 90.3 FM to hear the broadcast. Nampa - Sean Rogers in concert, 11:00am, First United Presbyterian Church 400 Lake Lowell Ave. Boise - Winter Garden aGlow, 6:00pm, Idaho Botanical Garden 2355 Old Penitentiary Rd. $10.00
Saturday Boise - Blues Addicts Year’s End Party, 7:30pm, Sapphire Room at the Riverside 2900 Chinden Blvd.
Sunday Boise - Marcus Eaton with Steve Eaton, 7:30pm, Sapphire Room at the Riverside 2900 Chinden Blvd. Boise - Opera Idaho presents AMAHL & THE NIGHT VISITORS, The Egyptian Theatre 700 West Main Street
Tuesday Boise - So You Think You Can Dance - Live Tour, 7:00pm, Taco Bell Arena 1401 Bronco Ln
New Year’s Eve Garden City - A GRATEFUL New Year’s Eve!, 8:00pm, Visual Arts Collective 3638 Osage Street Boise - Dance to the Blues Brothers Rock and Soul Review and Laugh with Curt Sudden, 8:00pm, Playhouse Boise 8001 Fairview Ave Garden City - Dirtyphonics, 8:00pm, Revolution Center 4983 Glenwood St Boise - The Fabulous Chancellors, 8:30pm, Sapphire Room at the Riverside 2900 Chinden Blvd. Boise - New Years eve dance with the Kings of Swing, Mardi Gras Ballroom 615 S 9th St $0.00 Nampa - New Year’s Eve Featuring The Alley Cats, 6:30pm, Nampa Civic Center 311 Third St S Boise - New Year’s Eve with Micky & the Motorcars, 9:30pm, Knitting Factory 416 S 9th St Boise - New Years Overnighter, 7:00pm, Wings Center 1875 Century Way Wings Center Garden City - ROCKIN’ INTO THE NEW YEAR, 8:00pm, The Eclypse 5467 N Glenwood Street Boise - The Speakeasy: Swingin’ in the New Year, 8:00pm, The Drink 3000 North Lakeharbor Lane
Jan. 2 Boise - Run Forever, Looming, Guests, 7:30pm, Neurolux 111 N 11th St
Jan. 3 Nampa - Liberty Quartet Concert, 6:00pm, Nampa First Church of the Nazarene 601 16th Avenue S $0.00
Jan. 7 Boise - G-EAZY: 2016 “When It’s Dark Out” World Tour, 7:30pm, CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd $35.00 Boise - Group, 8:00pm, Morrison Center for the Performing Arts 2201 W Cesar Chavez Ln
ooking for something fun to do with your family and friends over the holidays? Whether you want to enjoy a concert, be dazzled by Christmas lights or toast a glass of champagne to ring in the new year, you’ll find some festive ideas in our local event guide.
CHRISTMAS NIGHT, WEEKEND Caldwell Winter Wonderland The banks of Indian Creek in downtown Caldwell are glowing with 500,000 LED lights for by Meridian Press staff the holiday seanews@mymeridianpress.com son. There are new sculptures this year, including a carousel. A dragon sculpture in Indian Creek that was new last year will breathe fire this year. Adam Eschbach/MP It takes city crews months to get the Around 500,000 Christmas lights are turned on for Winter Wonderland around Indian Creek in downtown Caldwell. elaborate display ready for visitors. The display includes more than 60 lighted sculptures and the tree. night. Enjoy unlimited laser tag, bowling, mini golf, go-karts, Kiddie n Where: Indian Creek, downtown Caldwell. Take Exit 28 for 10th AvCove and a $5 game card. Guests may also add an unlimited XD Dark enue, turn left at the light onto 10th Avenue, then right on Blaine Street. Ride for $5 more. A noon countdown will include a balloon drop and n When: Nightly through Jan. 15. Lights turn on at 7:30 p.m. bubble wrap stomp. n Price: free An all-you-can-eat pizza buffet lunch, including salad, pasta, breadn Web: cityofcaldwell.com/winter_wonderland sticks, dessert pizza and soda, will be served for $6.99 a person from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. SOURCE: The Idaho Press-Tribune A similar deal is taking place later in the day for $1 more. Guests can enjoy the same Wahooz fun from 5 p.m. to midnight, with a pizza bufWinter Garden aGlow fet dinner (same price) offered from 5 to 8 p.m. A countdown at midVisit the 19th annual Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical night will feature a balloon drop and party favors. Garden to see a display of over 300,0000 sparkling lights. The Holiday Exn When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday; and 5 p.m. to midnight Thurspress, a G-scale model train, will wind its way through the glowing winter day wonderland, and special guests Santa and his reindeer Prancer visit on n Where: Wahooz Family Fun Zone, 1385 S. Blue Marlin Lane, Meselect nights. ridian n When: 6-9 p.m. nightly through Jan. 3 n Price $14.99 per person for the day party; $15.99 per person for the n Where: Idaho Botanical Garden, 2355 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise evening party n Price: $4-$8, Sunday to Thursday; $6-$10, Friday-Saturday. Free for n Phone: 898-0900 children under 5. n
Web: idahobotanicalgarden.org
Broadcast: Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” The Morrison Center for the Performing Arts is partnering with Boise State Public Radio for the broadcast of “A Christmas Carol.” The Charles Dickens classic was produced as part of the Family Reading Series. Tune in tonight at 6 p.m. to 90.3 FM to hear the broadcast. The performance can also be heard by live stream at boisestatepublicradio.org. “A Christmas Carol” was previously recorded live in the Morrison Center on Dec. 18, 2011. This ghostly tale comes to life through storytelling, music and sound effects. n When: 6 p.m. tonight n Where: Tune in to 90.3 FM or listen online, boisestatepublicradio.org
SOURCE: Boise State University Concert: Marcus Eaton with Steve Eaton Following a successful tour and album launch in Italy, Marcus Eaton, whose music has been redefined as acoustic rock, returns to Boise for an intimate solo performance in The Sapphire Room. See father and son together on the same night when Steve Eaton opens for Marcus. Guests will be able to purchase advance copies of the latest album, “Versions Of The Truth” before its official U.S. release. A full food menu and bar will be available, and the event is for all ages. n When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. n Where: Sapphire Room at the Riverside, 2900 Chinden Blvd., Boise n Price: General seating is $23 online or $27 at the door. Preferred seating is $28 online or $32 at the door. Tickets may be ordered by phone, 1-800-838-3006.
Pinz Countdown Party For those wanting to party into the night, Wahooz’ neighbor, Pinz Bowling, is hosting a Countdown Party from 9:15 p.m. to 1 a.m. Guests may reserve a lane all evening long for cosmic bowling, play $5 worth of games in the arcade, and experience the new XD Dark Ride, an interactive 7-D movie with eight full motion seats, 2G acceleration and a laser blasting game. A dessert and appetizer buffet will be available from 9:30-10:30 p.m. Just before midnight, grab a glass of champagne or sparkling cider for toasts. All ages are welcome. Prices: n Advance purchase: $27 children 12 and under, $45 adults, through Dec. 30 n At the door: $32 children 12 and under, $50 adults if lanes are still available n Access to the Z Lounge is $5 more per person (all ages welcome)
Ice Skating Enjoy the outdoors at the ice skating rink in Fountain Square at The Village at Meridian. n When: Nov. 15 – Feb. 15 (weather permitting) 3-9 p.m. Monday – Friday 12-9 p.m. Saturday 12-6 p.m. Sunday n Where: The Village at Meridian, 3600 East Fairview Ave. n Prices: $3 ages 12 and under $5 ages 13 and up Plus $2 ice skate rental n Phone: 501-8207 n n n
n n n
NEW YEAR’S EVE New Year’s Eve at Big Al’s Love to bowl? Reserve a lane for you and your family at Big Al’s in Meridian. The party includes three hours of unlimited bowling with shoes, party favors, a champagne/cider toast, a balloon drop on the concourse and $10 in free arcade play for each guest. All ages are welcome. n When: 9:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m., Thursday n Where: Big Al’s, 1900 N. Eagle Road, Meridian n Prices: Power House lanes, four people: $149. $35 for each additional guest. Slider Alley, four people: $199. $45 for each additional guest. n Six guests per lane maximum n Web: ilovebigals.com n Phone: 258-6434 n
n
Wahooz and Pinz NOON Year’s Eve Party and evening celebration Celebrate the new year without staying up past mid-
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Attend the Kick-Off Party and you’ll be entered to win $100 cash! Saturday, January 9, 2016 • 8 a.m.-3 p.m. West Ada School District Admin. Bldg. • 1303 E. Central Drive, Meridian Presented by:
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Sponsors: 1386706 C M Y K
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LOCAL NEWS Connect Share your stories with us by emailing news@mymeridianpress.com, posting on the Meridian Press Facebook page, or following us on Twitter, @MyMeridianPress.
Avenues for hope The annual Avenues for Hope fundraiser — which has raised more than $650,000 for homelessness prevention since its launch five years ago — is running through the end of this month. To support the cause, donate $25 or more at www.avenuesforhope. org to any of the 34 Idaho nonprofits on the list that are working to serve the homeless and provide housing solutions. Sponsors of the campaign are contributing up to $200,000 in matching funds. Avenues for Hope is organized by The Home Partnership Foundation, a nonprofit created by the Idaho Housing and Finance Association.
“
This is a very tangible way to make people happy.” JIM MOORE Touchmark resident
Top left: Coleman Homes presents a $15,000 donation to the Treasure Valley YMCA through its “Coleman Cares” program on Dec. 10. (From left) Treasure Valley YMCA Chief Executive Officer David Duro, Halleh Mahjouri McCullough, Hayley Schatz, Martha Emery, Erik Pray and Ryan Hammons. (Submitted by Lori Kurts) Top right: The Idaho Foodbank received a $4,084 check Dec. 16 through the SUBWAY Cares fundraiser. (Submitted by Kelsey Richardson). Bottom left: “Santa” delivers a “busload of hope” — toys and items donated by Cascade Student Transportation — to the Salvation Army. (Submitted by Bunny Malmin) Bottom right: Residents and staff of Touchmark at Meadow Lake Village in Meridian pack boxes of food. (Submitted by Robin Rausch)
Holiday giving supports local families, children
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ommunity members and businesses have pulled resources together to support local families this holiday season. Some of the organizations and businesses supporting these efforts have reported results to the Meridian Press. Here’s a glimpse of the impact your giving has made this year: n Local students and Boy Scouts collected items including toys and care packages for crime victims that will be given to children and teens through the Meridian Police Department’s Victim Witness Coordinators. n The annual Shop with a Cop event with the Meridian Police and Ada County Sheriff’s Departments by Meridian Press staff produced gifts for more than 80 kids. news@mymeridianpress.com The Meridian Fire administration staff helped a local teenager with his sock drive by purchasing 228 pairs of socks. n Employees of Cascade Student Transportation, which provides busing in the West Ada School District, delivered $3,000 in toys and items for boys and girls to the Salvation Army after hearing there was a shortage, according to Cascade’s local operations manager, Bunny Malmin. CST also sponsored Shop with a Cop and other community giving efforts. n Proceeds from the Meridian Parks and Recreation Department’s annual holiday volleyball tournament provided presents for 70 children in Meridian. n Residents and staff of Touchmark at Meadow Lake Village, a retirement community in Meridian, packed 40 boxes of food Dec. 8 and delivered the boxes to Pierce Park Elementary School and
Covenant Presbyterian in Meridian. The organizations distributed the boxes to families and individuals in need. Each box contained nutrient-rich, nonperishable food to feed a family of four people for a week. “This is a very tangible way to make people happy,” said Touchmark resident Jim Moore, who has volunteered for the packing event for three years and also donates financially to the cause. Touchmark residents collect food year-round, and this year they donated 930 pounds of food to the Meridian Food Bank. Touchmark’s annual classic car show also generated $880 for the Wyakin Warrior Foundation. n The Idaho Foodbank received a $4,084 check Dec. 16 through the SUBWAY Cares fundraiser. From Nov. 15 to Dec. 12, Subway customers throughout the state made donations by rounding up to the nearest dollar at checkout. Other food banks in Idaho also benefited. n Albertsons presented 1,097 ham dinners to The Idaho Foodbank Dec. 17, provided through the Santa Bucks program. During the program, Alberstons associates gave customers the opportunity to donate when paying at the register. n Coleman Homes donated $15,000 to the Treasure Valley YMCA and $5,000 to the Boise Art Museum. The donations are the result of “Coleman Cares,” a yearly initiative encouraging employees to vote for Idaho nonprofits to receive charitable contributions. The Y will use the funds for its Early Learning Readiness Program, provided to young children free of charge. BAM will use the funds to renew its ARTexperience Gallery, an interactive space geared toward children ages 12 and under.
Improvements to Hwy. 20/26 to be funded by surplus
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he Idaho Transportation Board selected 17 road and by replacing and preserving our bridges, as well as our pavebridge projects that will be funded by a general surplus FULL LIST OF IMPROVEMENTS ments, and keeping Idaho’s economy and citizens moving,” statas authorized by the 2015 Legislature at the board’s ed Idaho Transportation Board Chairman Jerry Whitehead. Find a link to the full list of improvemonthly meeting. The board selected each project based on its return on investOne of the projects involves repaving two miles of ments on the Meridian Press website. ment in the areas of safety, mobility and economic opportunity. U.S. 20/26 between North Locust Grove and Cloverdale Road. Visit this shortened link to access the To receive the funding, road and bridge projects had to be part of The highway, also called Chinden Boule- article: goo.gl/2Zz2xC. the current five-year Idaho Transportation Investment Program vard, provides a main route from Canyon and recommended for funding by an ITD district engineer. by Meridian Press staff County into downtown Boise. “These funds will lead to immediate improvements in safety news@mymeridianpress.com “This improvement will extend the lifespan of the existand increase mobility for drivers across Idaho,” stated ITD Director Brian Ness. ing pavement, as well as provide safer and smoother con“The projects also will enhance economic opportunity by getting more goods ditions,” the Idaho Transportation Department said of the $2.09 million project. “This section of U.S. 20/26 is in a very populated area and is important to sur- and services to market, along with increasing tourism and recreational opportunities.” rounding businesses and residents.” Money placed in the SIP Fund by the Legislature may only be used for road The projects will be funded by approximately $54 million of fiscal year 2015 and bridge maintenance, and it is separate from ITD’s additional funding made general fund cash surplus. The money was placed by the Idaho Legislature into the transportation de- available by increases to the state’s gasoline tax and motor-vehicle registrations partment’s Strategic Initiative Program Fund. Legislators authorized the SIP approved during the last legislative session. An annual report to the Legislature of expenditures from the SIP fund is refund to receive 50 percent of General Fund cash surplus at the end of fiscal years quired. ITD will track where the money from the fund is used separately from 2015 and 2016. “Projects selected today are another important step in improving our system other road and bridge projects in Idaho. C M Y K
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LOCAL NEWS
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Top: (From left): Shelby Peugh, Mallie Miller and Clayton Christensen take a break from selling raffle tickets at the Meridian FFA’s Nov. 9 auction. Right: (From left): Paul Spirk is awarded the Meridian FFA Honorary Degree by Meridian chapter Vice President Andrew Heikkila and President Kristen Nesbitt at the Nov. 9 alumni action fundraiser. Spirk donates handcrafted wood items to the auction every year. Center: (From left): Trinity Martin, Kaitlyn Steppe, Shayla Thomas and Joe Wieting pose by the Agri Beef Co. banner. Agri Beef donated the tri tip for the Nov. 9 auction dinner.
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Meridian FFA auction breaks fundraising record he Meridian FFA’s seventh annual Alumni Scholarship Auction brought in $26,000 — the most the auction has ever generated. The event, held Nov. 9, is the chapter’s main tool to raise money for senior FFA member scholarships and for state and national trips for FFA members. About 340 by Alexa Phillips people atMeridian FFA chapter reporter tended this year, bidding on 212 donated items in live and silent auctions. Cross Country Catering and Events prepared a tri-tip dinner donated by Agri Beef Co.
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Profits for the chapter came to $26,434, an 18 percent increase from last year. The money will provide $6,500 in scholarships to senior members, $5,000 to students attending the Washington Leadership Conference, $3,500 to students competing at the National FFA Convention and $4,200 to State Leadership Conference attendees and State Career Development Event competitors. The auction’s profits have increased 50 percent since its first year. The Meridian FFA thanks those who attended, businesses and families who donated items, including Agri Beef Co. and Cross Country Catering. It also wishes to thank the Alumni Chapter for making the auction a success.
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GOING PLACES The winners of the new Miss Meridian Scholarship Program, representing Meridian, Treasure Valley and Eagle at Miss Idaho 2016, are (from right) Madison Treyz, Miss Eagle; Katarina Schweitzer, Miss Treasure Valley; Miss Meridian, Marissa Wickland; Aurora Koldewey, Miss Meridian Outstanding Teen; Shevelle Hurtado, Miss Ada County Outstanding Teen; and Ashley Ames, First Runner Up. Director Trish Davis, who submitted the photo, is on the left. Each contestant competed in the areas of interview, talent, lifestyle and fitness, evening gown and n
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onstage question. Wickland also won interview, and Treyz won talent with her tap performance of “Happy.” n The Meridian Valley Humane Society is the grand prize winner of the Allied Business Solutions ‘‘2015 Office Make Over” contest. MVHS is a Meridianbased, volunteer-run dog rescue that opened two years ago. Allied Business Solutions chose MVHS as the grand prize winner after watching the shelter’s submitted video about its need for office equipment. Allied Business Solutions awarded a total of $20,000 in officer makeover supplies to local nonprofits. Watch the MVHS video, with the shelter’s furry, fourlegged residents playing in starring roles, at digitalallied.com/2015-office-make-over-winners.
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ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Accounting Assistant position w/ In-Home Care Agency. Applicant must be detail orientated & well organized. Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00A-5:00P. Primary Duties: Invoicing Receivables &Account Maintenance. Requirements: Well versed in QB, Excel, Word, HIPAA Requirements, Willingness to learn, Positive attitude, Basic Math (Adding times together),Reliable transportation, Drivers License and current Auto Liability Insurance Vacation and sick leave accrue upon starting. No additional benefits. Wage: $11/hr Please email your resume to christina@aaahomecare.com DRIVER
STORE CLOSING
40% OFF ALL INVENTORY!
is looking for CNA's: 1 Full time day 2 Full time Evenings 1 Full time Night Apply in person at 46 N. Midland Blvd., Nampa.
1999 NISSAN SENTRA, 4 Cylinder, 5 speed, Power windows/cruise, AC, runs & drives good, good tires, $1,500 SOLD!
524 Cleveland Blvd Caldwell OPEN 10-7
4dr Hatchback Ecoboost, 6 speed Black Pearl, Like New Condition, LOADED! 4K miles $15,850 409-3702
2002 MERCURY Grand Marquis LS, 4.6 Automatic, Leather, New all season radials, LOADED, runs and drives excellent, good condition, 94K miles, $5,000 Retail Book $2,550!!! (208)409-3702
Balewagons:
NH pull-type & self propelled models/parts/tires. Buy/Sell/Trade/Finance 880-2889 anytime Jim www.balewagon.com
Find the car you want, the price you need here!
SELLING GOOD QUALITY HAY 1/2 ton bales; $115 per bale We deliver. 1-208- 482-7422.
HAY
Good grass hay, covered, $6 bale or $140 ton 880-9636
LOW MILES!!!
2011 Ford Focus 4dr, 4 cylinder, Auto, Air, Cruise, Tilt, Power Windows/ Locks, New Michellin Radials 33K Miles, Like New Condition, Wholesale Cash Price $8,250 SOLD! Public Notice Musick Auction will be offering surplus vehicles and inventory from IDPC. No solicitations at IDPC. Vehicle viewing at 2024 N. Elder St., Nampa, ID 83687. Online Auction ends 12-29-15. www.musickauction.com
MYMERIDIANCLASSIFIEDS.COM STRAW $3.50/bale HAY $7.00/bale West of Caldwell Call 454-5146 or 570-2603. Delivery Available
Reach 110,000 Canyon County Readers each week! BULLS Black Angus,
Free Gift Wrap With Purchase
SomeDays Discount Store
2010 Ford Focus SEL
2013 FOCUS ST
TRUCK DRIVER WANTED, Caldwell area, Hauling Sugar/Molasses. Benefits, Class A CDL endorsement for tankers & doubles, Must be over 23, 2 years experience, Immediate opening. Email resume & driving abstract to randy46@charter.net or fax to 208-459-3382
• gloves/hats
2 door, front-wheel drive, 2.4, 4 Cyld, 5 speed, Air Cond/Good heater Michellin all Season Radials, New Brakes/Shocks, 30-35MPG Good condition, runs excellent! $2,995
(208)409-3702
• New Clothing ˘• Groceries
• Christmas Items
2006 Chevy Cobalt LS
2.0 Auto A/C, Heated Leather, C.D. Power Sunroof, New Studded Snow Tires, LOADED! Very Nice Condition, 30-40mpg Runs & Drives Excellent, 116K Highway miles, $5,750
Trinity Mission Health & Rehab of Midland
Care At Home Inc. is seeking a Registered Nurse for immediate need in home health nursing in the Caldwell area. Full time, competitive pay, benefits. Idaho license is necessary, Oregon license is also preferred. Apply at 504 N 10th Ave. Caldwell, online at careathomehh.com, or call 208-642-1838.
Service Directory
(208)409-3702
REGISTERED NURSE
CLASSIFIED DEADLINES
Deadline to get your Classified ads in for the following Friday is 4pm on Wednesday. Please call us if you have questions 467-9253.
NEWSPAPER DELIVERY CONTRACTORS
Independent contractors needed to deliver newspapers in the Meridian, Middleton, Nampa & Caldwell city areas. Early morning delivery. Valid drivers license and insurance required If interested call Jennifer at 465-8160 or Christopher at 465-8138
Transportation
CATTLE BEDDING $4/yard,
GENERAL
For Lease: CALDWELL 6121 Cleveland Blvd: Several spaces: #101, 102, 103, & 110 For pricing or to make an appointment call: (208) 454-1639 or (208) 989-8721
Agriculture/Auctions
Post your job online
Ready to breed your herd, $1,900.00 Golden Millet 208-250-8420
MyMeridianClassifieds.com
Everyday deals
AFFORDABLE HOUSING Sandlewood Apartments Caldwell.
Call 459-4434. Equal Housing Opportunity
MyMeridianClassifieds.com
Don’t miss out!
RV FURNITURE CENTER
MyMeridianClassifieds.com
STARR Agricultural Products Co. Chemicals Betamix/Sugar Beet & Red Beet Label $34 per gallon
Product no longer manufactured; still registered. Delivered in the U.S. 541-926-9499 • 541-979-0165 Stanley Starr • slstarr@prodigy.net
YEAR END CLOSEOUT!!! Buy as is. Bring Your Truck...and take it home! • • • • •
Jacknife Sofas $99-$199 Swivel Rocker Chair $50 $75 $98 Push Back Recliners $199 Double Kickout Sofa Incliner $159 Lauren Ashley Reclining sectional seating(tan color) $599 • Dinette Cushion's set $49 RV FURNITURE CENTER 3828 East Flamingo Avenue Nampa, Idaho 83687 467-2200
Your adventure starts here! MyMeridianClassifieds.com C M Y K