HAPPY NEW YEAR, MERIDIAN!
2015 YEAR IN REVIEW
$1.00
ONE BUSY YEAR
AN EDITION OF THE IDAHO PRESS-TRIBUNE // MYMERIDIANPRESS.COM // 01.01.16
inside
A look back at the top stories in Meridian in 2015, from school district upheavals to ribbon cuttings to elections to awards to wonderful stories from our community.
C M Y K
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ON THE TOWN Got the winter blues? Don’t miss your chance for some laughs next weekend when more than 20 comedy and improv shows take place in Boise for the three-day Idaho Laugh Fest.
page 8
COMMUNITY
OPINION
The new Boys & Girls Club gymnasium opens this month, and the teen center will follow in March. The expansion will double the club’s space, providing more room for kids and teens to play, learn and explore.
A look from Idaho State Librarian Ann Joslin at how libraries support the lifeblood of the economy and can help Idaho expand its talented workforce pool.
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TRENDING GET ON THE RADAR
Today’s Forecast (NOAA)
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
EXTENDED OUTLOOK
Add your Treasure Valley events to the calendar at mymeridianpress/OnYourRadar
on your radar
Mostly sunny, a.m. fog/low clouds
18/8
Mostly sunny and cold
17/7
Mostly sunny and cold
Partly sunny
25/14
22/11
Cold temperatures will stick around through Tuesday, when a new system could bring highs in the 30s and a chance for snow showers by midweek.
Roland Steadham
1327618
Holiday memories, expectations can’t measure up, and that’s OK connect hbeech@mymeridianpress.com Phone: 208-465-8122 Twitter: @HollyBeechMP
I
’m finally in the Christmas spirit this week. I’m embracing the music, enjoying the lights and ornaments and marveling over the wonder that is peppermint bark. Just a week too late, right? Last week didn’t feel like Christmas because my family was dispersed. We’re all in town now and celebrating together Saturday. Even though I knew we were pushing back our traditions this year, the night of Christmas Eve still had a strange emptiness to it. I tried to talk myself out of feeling sad and nostalgic and to just relax and enjoy the day off. The holidays, while they are a time for giving gifts and laughing and eating good food with people we love, can stir up more stress and sadness than many of us care to admit. There’s the pressure of getting the gifts and food just right, of squeezing the same workload into fewer work days. For those mourning the loss of a loved one, this supposed “merry and bright” time of year can actually be really painful. I know for me, nostalgia for when my brothers and I were kids can get me down. Then I feel guilty and ungrateful for being sad during a time that is supposed to be special. This year I found comfort in an unexpected place: NPR’s “Pop Culture Happy Hour.” The Dec. 24 episode is about “Melancholidays” — the idea that melancholy, though often pushed aside this time of year, is part of the holiday experience. An example given in the episode is the song “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” written for the 1944 movie, “Meet Me in St. Louis.” The family in the movie was mourning because they were about to move away from loved ones. The original song goes, “Someday soon, we all will be together, if the fates allow. Until then, we’ll have to muddle through somehow.” A
CRIME WATCH Meridian Police Department Log
Dec. 21 1. Grand theft, 1500 block East Overland Road 2. Petit theft, 2300 block East Conner Street 3. Protective custody hold, 1700 block East Kamay Court 4. Aggravated assault, leaving the scene, East Franklin Road/North Eagle Road 5. Arrest: petit theft 6. Arrest: DUI 7. Attempted unlawful entry, trespassing, 100 block West Idaho Avenue 8. Recovered stolen vehicle, North Tirso Avenue/West Viso Street 9. Arrest: resisting and obstructing, possession of marijuana and paraphernalia
Dec. 22 1. Arrest: failure to appear warrant, possession of controlled substance and paraphernalia, driving without privileges 2. Arrest: failure to appear warrant, driving without privileges, no insurance (second offense) 3. Domestic verbal, 400 block West Cherry Lane 4. Vehicle burglary, 500 block West Ramsbrook Street 5. Computer fraud, 2200 block South Bonito Way 6. Protective custody hold, 3800 block North Arches Way 7. Arrest: warrant 8. Vandalism, 200 block East Moskee Street 9. Stolen vehicle, 2000 block North Gladewater Avenue
Dec. 23 1. Petit theft, 1600 block South Wells 2. Unattended death, 3600 block West Sugar Creek Drive 3. Petit theft, 4000 block East Granger 4. Arrest: warrant, resisting and obstructing, possession of drug paraphernalia 5. Arrest: DUI, leaving the scene 6. Dispensing to person under 21, 1400 block North Eagle Road 7. Arrest: warrant 8. Arrest: aggravated assault 9. Arrest: DUI, possession of paraphernalia 10. Arrest: possession of spice and paraphernalia, agents warrant 11. Dispensing to person under 21, 66 block East State Avenue 12. Arrest: domestic battery in presence of children 13. Dispensing to person under 21, 1600 block West Cherry Lane 14. Vehicle burglary, 1000 block South Progress Avenue 15. Arrest: driving without privileges, possession of drug paraphernalia 16. Arrest: DUI, carrying concealed while under the influence
ROADREPORT Linder Road from Almaden Drive to Duck Alley Road will have lane restrictions and flagn
later version of the song changes the second part of that lyric to, “Hang a shining star upon the highest bow.” As NPR writer Glen Weldon put it, “God forbid we have some real emotions.” His colleague, NPR Music editor Stephen Thompson, explained the melancholy of Christmas and New Year’s well. He said Christmas as an adult can’t stack up against his childhood Christmas or against the cultural expectations and build-up leading up to the holiday. “I want to make these perfect Christby Holly Beech mas memories for (my kids),” Thompson said. “There’s pressure on me to do that, hbeech@mymeridianpress.com and for me, it’s by definition not going to © 2015 MERIDIAN PRESS live up to what it was like when I was a kid, because I’m not viewing it through the lens of being a kid any more. And you look at New Year’s, and again it’s another holiday of expectations, but it’s almost this desperation around it. Like, … ‘I have to find a way to celebrate this holiday in a way that is going to set the tone for the new year exactly the way I want it.’” What he said next sums up a lesson I’ve been learning for the past decade: “Anytime you can undercut the forced merriment, and undercut the expectations surrounding those holidays, I think you’re doing yourself a service.” Don’t get me wrong — I didn’t spend the entire holiday season moping around and stuck in the past. But I’m learning that it’s OK to acknowledge the ache that comes with the holidays.
Dec. 24 1. Arrest: warrant, driving without privileges 2. Battery, 500 block West Carlton Avenue 3. Arrest: petit theft 4. Arrest: DUI 5. Arrest: petit theft 6. No-contact order violation, 3668 N. McKinley Park Ave. 7. Petit theft, 4000 block East Granger Drive 8. Arrest: DUI 9. Arrest: warrant
TRENDING 3 Recent Kuna grad dies in car vs. train crash
A 19-year-old Nampa man was killed Monday when his car was struck by a train in Kuna. Peter Justin Francois, 19, was Kuna High School’s valedictorian in 2014, according to an article in the Kuna Melba News at the time. Officials have ruled the death an accident. The collision happened at the railroad crossing Black Cat Road and Greenhurst Road in Kuna. The Kuna Melba News article stated Francois planned to attend Boise State University in the Honors College to study pre-med and work toward getting his MD. Francois also volunteered with the muscular dystrophy association and was a counselor at M.D.A. summer camp. The Ada County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident. The sheriff’s office is working with railroad officials to determine what caused the collision. According to the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, a Union Pacific train was traveling west when it hit Francois’ vehicle. There was no one else in the car. The railroad crossing is marked with a stop sign.
Dec. 25 1. Disturbance, 2000 block East Mozart 2. Petit theft, 3300 block East Ustick Road 3. Petit theft, 300 block West Cherry Lane 4. Aggravated assault, 300 block East Moskee Street 5. Two arrests: possession of marijuana and paraphernalia, frequenting. One juvenile cited for possession of marijuana and paraphernalia, frequenting and curfew.
Dec. 26 1. Grand theft auto, 2600 block NW 10th Street 2. Arrest: warrant (x3) 3. Burglary, 1200 block North Cherry Creek Place 4. Arrest: possession of marijuana and paraphernalia 5. Arrest: eluding, resisting and obstructing 6. Arrest: DUI, leaving the scene (x2) 7. Found drugs, 4000 block East Fairview Avenue 8. Petit theft, 1300 block East Fairview Avenue 9. Disturbing the peace, 1800 block North Ginkgo Avenue
Source: The Idaho Press-Tribune
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Lawmakers faced with REAL ID problems
Despite an extension that will allow Idaho residents to fly commercially and enter federal facilities in 2016, lawmakers are being asked to handle compliance issues with Idaho driver’s licenses and the REAL ID Act. Idaho-issued licenses and identification cards do not meet the 39 requirements that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security wants states to incorporate into their cards to come into compliance, the Coeur D’Alene Press reports. States across the nation are in various stages of compliance with the REAL ID law, which passed in 2005 to provide additional safety and security for U.S. citizens after 9/11. The act modified laws regarding security, authentication and issuing standards for state driver’s licenses and identification cards, as well as various immigration issues pertaining to terrorism. Idaho lawmakers passed legislation in 2008 preventing the state from having to comply with the law. But the state law was amended this year to allow the Idaho Transportation Department to enhance the security of state ID cards and driver’s licenses so they can be accepted on commercial flights. During the extension, which lasts until Oct. 10, federal agencies will accept Idaho-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards for official purposes. Idaho Transportation Department spokesman Reed Hollinshead said the Legislature needs to get state-issued identification back up to standards.
Dec. 27 1. Vehicle burglary, 4900 block North Wild Goose Way 2. Disturbance, 1100 block West Stanhope Street 3. Arrest: domestic battery in the presence of a child 4. Arrest: DUI 5. Arrest: disturbing the peace, leaving the scene, DUI 6. Juvenile beyond control, 1500 block West Merganzer Drive
Dec. 28 1. Arrest: driving without privileges 2. Petit theft, 1000 block West Pine Avenue 3. Vehicle burglary, 1400 block West Deer Crest 4. Grand theft, 200 block East Producer Drive 5. Protective custody hold, 1200 block North Shreveport Avenue 6. Disturbance, 19900 block Deerhill Drive 7. Arrest: burglary, possession of drugs 8. Arrest: possession of marijuana and paraphernalia 9. Two juveniles cited: tobacco violation, possession of drug paraphernalia, Northwest 14th Street/West 10. Protective custody hold, 700 block West Overland Road
ging through April 1 as crews rebuild the road. n Victory Road from Linder Road to Ten Mile Road will be closed for bridge reconstruction through Jan. 15. n Pine Avenue east of Northwest Seventh © 2015 Vol. 3, No. 8, 10 pages
An edition of the Idaho Press-Tribune
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Street will have lane restrictions and flagging on Jan. 5 for sewer services.
Source: The Associated Press
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Avenues for Hope campaign raises money to help homeless
As of Tuesday, the Avenues for Hope campaign had raised almost $137,000 in donations for Idaho nonprofits that serve the homeless. The campaign organizer — the Idaho Housing and Finance Association, through its Home Partnership Foundation — and other sponsors had contributed $55,000 in matching grants and $4,000 in other awarded grants. The campaign wrapped up Thursday night, after print time. Idaho Housing hopes to disburse at least $325,000 this year in donations and grants through the fifth annual Avenues for Hope. “We call it a Housing Challenge because we are challenging Idahoans to give what they can to help nonprofits on the front line of serving the homeless and those in need of housing assistance in Idaho communities,” stated Gerald M. Hunter, president of Idaho Housing.
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MYMERIDIANPRESS.COM // 01.01.16
LOCAL NEWS New gym opens soon at Meridian Boys & Girls Club Opening of the teen center is slated for March
I
n mid-January, children at the Boys & Girls Club in Meridian will have a brand new gymnasium to play in. Clubhouse director Robyn Ure could not be more excited. “It’s unbelievable,” she said, looking out the window at the almost 9,000-square-foot structure. “I know all of the struggles that we face year-round with trying to just properly house as many children as we can, and trying to deal with 16-degree weather and snow and ice and dark, and in the summertime it’s over 100 degrees before noon,” Ure said. “So it’s by Holly Beech awesome just to be able hbeech@mymeridianpress.com to have this extra space so © 2016 MERIDIAN PRESS the kids can get their extra energy out. … It’s so much more than just a gym. You MERIDIAN CLUBHOUSE can bring in a lot of sports, athletic programs for the CONTACT kids. A lot of our kids and n 911 N. Meridian Road, on the families can’t afford to do corner of West Pine Avenue that kind of stuff.” n 888-5392 The clubhouse serves an average of 220 kids a day but has an enrollment of about 500, she said. The waiting list during the summer ranges from 60 to over 100 kids. The expansion — which includes a new teen center — will double the space, opening up room in the current facility for seven more computers, a larger library and education center, and a STEM room where students can do hands-on science projects. The project cost came to $2.5 million, thanks in part to in-kind donations for design and construction work. The J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation gave $1 million, and the city of Meridian pitched in $500,000. “The city realizes that the Boys & Girls Club is serving some of the most at-risk kids in the community, and really without the club, the city would have to pick up a ROBYN URE, Clubhouse director lot of that cost,” Boys & Girls Clubs of Ada County Executive Director Colleen Braga said. “They understand the value of the club in the community.” When the gym is done, the club has agreed to let the city use it in the evenings for Parks and Recreation programs. “We kind of raised the funds in record time,” Braga said. “There were a lot of folks who contributed and made it possible. It seems to us like it can’t open soon enough, but really it’s been a record amount of time.” The Albertson Foundation brought in Cannon Design to help design the teen center, Braga said, which is one factor in the delayed opening. The anticipated open date for the new facility had been the end of 2015. The gym is slated to open later this month, and the teen center is slated for mid-March. But the wait will be worth it, from what Braga says. Having an attractive, unique space for teens is important because they choose whether or not to be there — and there are a lot of other options, some not so good, competing for their attention, she said. “This is their own space, their own entrance, just a cool space for them to be,” Braga said. “(The gym) will be beautiful as well. We were able to put in really great multiuse gym flooring and really do a top-notch job, with the electronic score boards, retractable basketball hoops and the whole shot.” Ure said she can’t wait to see the looks on the children’s faces when they step into the new facility. “Really, I’ve just been in awe by seeing so many people pulled together to make Photos by Holly Beech/MP this happen for the kids,” she said. “A lot of our kids don’t have a lot, so this is a very special place for them.” The new high-school regulation gymnasium is slated to open at the Boys & Girls Club on the corner of Braga anticipates a grand opening celebration for the gym and teen center to take North Meridian Road and West Pine Avenue in Meridian later this month, followed by the opening of a place by the end of March. new teen center in March. The new facility will double the club’s space.
“
Really, I’ve just been in awe by seeing so many people pulled together to make this happen for the kids.”
OPINION in your words
Libraries critical to building stronger Gem State talent pool by Ann Joslin
Idaho Commission for Libraries
Idaho doesn’t have the workforce to sustain the jobs we need to fill. Desirable talent like engineers and other skilled workers isn’t widely available here, forcing many organizations to recruit employees Ann Joslin from out of state. Idaho state Recent news reports librarian indicate businesses considering expanding in or relocating to Idaho are no longer clamoring for tax breaks and are instead talking about the need for talent. Thus, the Gem State must invest in efforts that bring together industry and education, and libraries are an important part of that solution. So much education takes place out of school, and Idaho’s libraries are well equipped to help people get into jobs and run businesses. Often the only source of free broadband connectivity in rural Idaho, libraries are among our communities’ most prized assets. The quality of the library is second in importance only to fire protection, according to an analysis of 67 community values ranked in 26 Idaho Rural Partnership Community Reviews the University of Idaho Center for Resilient Communities compiled last year. This mirrors the findings of a national study conducted by the PEW Institute, which discovered libraries are more valued and respected than schools and police. Entrepreneurs and small businesses — the lifeblood of the economy — can turn to local libraries for help writing business plans, finding financial resources, and figuring out which forms to file. Like every Idaho resident, businesses have access to our Librar-
ies Linking Idaho website — lili.org — whenever and wherever, allowing them to boost productivity without purchasing information and resources elsewhere. Its mighty array of resources includes a Small Business Reference Center with tools and detailed “how-to” instructions on a wide range of small business topics. The Business Source Premier section provides the industry’s most-used business research database and the single most substantial collection of active, peer-reviewed business journals. And lili.org’s LearningExpress Library offers self-paced skillbuilding tools on subjects ranging from business writing and grammar to math and software like Microsoft Office and the Adobe Creative Suite. Individuals can access library resources for professional-development purposes — services that are especially vital to unemployed and under-employed people preparing for the workforce and searching for jobs. In addition, lili.org includes resources that can help prep people who are pursuing a career that requires a license or certification like real estate or law enforcement. Meanwhile, the Idaho Commission for Libraries continues to collaborate with the Idaho Department of Labor, public libraries and educators statewide on workforce development initiatives. Individual libraries throughout Idaho are also doing exciting things. The Meridian Library District’s unBound technology laboratory lets residents — including entrepreneurs and established businesses — experiment with emerging technology. Up north in Bonners Ferry, the Boundary County Library District offers a Youth Business Incubator and a Learning Center with a Fab Lab. Plus, 28 Idaho public libraries
are participating in the Commission’s nationally recognized Make It at the Library project designed to create makerspaces in libraries statewide. Our libraries are huge economic engines in their own right. The Online Computer Library Center reports U.S. libraries purchase an estimated $14 billion in goods and services annually. Libraries also deliver an incredible return on investment, according to an analysis of 10 major ROI studies of pub-
JAN.
lic libraries in Colorado, Florida, Indiana, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Vermont and Wisconsin between 2004 and 2009. Communities enjoyed an average return on investment of $4.52 for every $1 spent on public libraries with ROI ranging from $2.38 to $6.96. Communities looking to bolster their economy would be wise to invest in their local libraries. They’re powerful engines of economic development.
Steve’s Ca f e January 2016 Weekend Specials!
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ND Cajun Scramble
Apple Cinnamon Stuffed French Toast
Western BBQ Elk Cheese Burger
Fried Porkie & Eggs
Raspberry Cream Stuffed French Toast
Cajun Gumbo with Rice
Chili Rellenos & Sweet Corn Cakes
Strawberry Banana Stuffed French Toast
Beef Stroganoff
Italian Frittata
Cherry Stuffed French Toast
Tuna Melt on Rye
Country Benedict with Fried Red Potatoes
Banana Fosters Stuffed French Toast
Malibu Chicken Sandwich
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Steve’s Cafe 1398776 C M Y K
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01.01.16 // MYMERIDIANPRESS.COM
LOCAL NEWS TO THE
VILLAGE!
Ladies’ Night Out at The Village at Meridian
F I R S T T H U R S D AY o f E V E RY M O N T H , 6 p m 1329224 CAL15-0026_passport_newspaper-ad_9-83x1-5.indd 1
DEATHS
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 467-9253.
Michael Edward Graves 1940 – 2015 Mike Graves, local entrepreneur and son of Ed and Ethel Graves of Boise, died Sunday, December 13, at his home in Boise. He was 75. Mike worked with his father in their family business, Boise’s landmark Royal Restaurant for many years. After his father’s retirement, Mike owned the Royal until 1978. Mike went on to own several other businesses: Mountain Billiards, Johnson Music, and Inland Vending. Before his retirement, Mike was involved in powder coating and steel fabricating ventures. Mike was an enthusiastic athlete and sportsman. He developed special passions for skiing, swimming, and fishing. He and a formidable “rat pack” of friends and their epic adventures were the stuff of a lifetime of myths, half-lies, and wellspun tales. Mike married Betty Dean in 1968. Her sons Jim, Kerry, and Robert made up their family until son Brady
Jan. 11
Claudia Anne Badley, 62,
of Boise, died Wednesday, Dec. 30. Funeral Home: Cremation Society of Idaho.
Mark Steven Dugger, 43, of Boise, died Monday, Dec. 28. Funeral Home: Cremation Society of Idaho. Lois Ellen Hall, 92, of Boise,
died Sunday, Dec. 27, 2015. Funeral Home: Cremation Society of Idaho
Jason Israel Hess,
46, of Boise, died Friday, Dec. 25, 2015, at his home of natural causes. Funeral Home: Relyea Funeral Chapel was born in 1974. Mike and Betty divorced in 1986. Mike met Elizabeth Nutting in 1990 and the couple was later married. Mike was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by wife Liz, sons Brady of Boise, Robert of GA, Kerry of TX, and Jim of OR. He is also survived by sisters Karen (Lou) Fuess of Boise, Diane Graves and Mendy Graves, both of WA. A celebration of life reception was held at AldenWaggoner Funeral Chapel on Sunday, December 20. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
Norman “Hutch” R. Hutchings, 92, of Boise, died Thursday, Dec. 24, 2015. Funeral Home: Summers Funeral Homes, 3629 E. Ustick Road, Meridian.
Today
Wednesday
Boise - Colorado Eagles vs. Idaho Steelheads, CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd
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
Saturday 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
Sunday
Ruth N. Kilborn, 69, of Boise,
Nampa - Overeaters Anonymous Meeting, 5:30pm, Crossroads Church 4170 East Amity Rd. back entrance $0.00
Mary Corning Rumbaugh, 84, of Eagle, died Saturday,
Monday
Dec. 26. Funeral Home: Cremation Society of Idaho.
Nampa - Nampa Art Guild Monday Night Art Demo, 7:00pm, 1012 11th Ave. N. Ext. $5.00
Gary Slaathaug, 75, of Merid-
Tuesday
died Dec. 22, 2015, at a local care home. Funeral Home: Bowman Funeral Parlor.
ian, died Sunday, Dec. 27, 2015, at his home. Funeral Home: Accent Funeral Home, Meridian
Marion Ernest Wellman, 93, of Boise, died Monday, Dec. 28, 2015, at a local care center of natural causes. Funeral Home: Relyea Funeral Chapel.
Nampa - Art Endeavor, 4:30pm, Nampa Public Library 101 11th Ave S $0.00 Nampa - Kilroy Coffee Klatch, 10:00am, War Hawk Air Museum 201 Municipal Drive Boise - Soul Gym: Neuroscientific Experiential Conversation, 6:30pm, Full Steam Bistro 951 E. Front Street
Thursday Nampa - Community Dance, 7:00pm, Nampa Senior Center 207 Constitution Way $5.00
Jan. 8 Nampa - NARFE National Active and Retired Federal Employees, 12:00pm, Eagles Lodge 118 11th Ave N $0.00 Nampa - Rollie Lane Wrestling Tournament, 9:00am, Ford Idaho Center 16200 Idaho Center Blvd $11.00
Jan. 9 Boise - Boise State Broncos Mens Basketball vs. Fresno State Bulldogs Men’s Baseball, 4:00pm, Taco Bell Arena 1401 Bronco Ln Boise - Free Tennis Clinic for Adults, 2:00pm, Crane Creek Country Club 500 West Curling Drive, free Meridian - High Desert H-D Winter Blues Clinic, 1:00pm, $500.00 Meridian - One Stone’s World Record Breaking Mural Event, 7:00am, YMCA Homecourt 936 Taylor Ave $0.00
12/29/15 11:17 AM
Boise - Dependency Management and Interoperability, 6:15pm, Pixel and Line 2404 W. Bank Dr, Suite 206 Boise - Get to Know New Friends While Walking the Greenbelt, 5:30pm, Bandanna Running & Walking 504 W Main St
Jan. 12 Boise - 2016 Economic & Tax Planning Update, 7:30am, Boise Centre 850 West Front Street Boise - Emotional Intelligence: SELF MANAGEMENT, 7:00pm, Simpatico 1414 South Broadway Avenue Boise - Santa Cruz Warriors vs. Idaho Stampede, CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd
Jan. 14 Boise - January 2016 - Building a Portfolio Website, 6:00pm, US Bank Building 101 S Capitol Blvd 2nd floor conf. room “Volt Technical Resources” Boise - Rio Grande Valley Vipers vs. Idaho Stampede, CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd
Jan 15 Boise - Hell’s Belles (All Female Tribute To AC/DC), 8:00pm, Knitting Factory 416 S 9th St Boise - The Sixth Annual Broken Resolutions Ball, 7:00pm, The Rose Room 718 W Idaho St. Boise - Tulsa Oilers vs. Idaho Steelheads, CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd
Jan. 16 Boise - 16th Annual Idaho Remodeling & Design Show, Boise Centre, Boise Centre 850 West Front Street $5.00
GET PUZZLED
Solution on page 8
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: Gold. Solution on page 8 C M Y K
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MYMERIDIANPRESS.COM // 01.01.16
NOW OPEN IN THE VILLAGE AT MERIDIAN! • A full-service Deli and Bakery featuring made-from-scratch burritos, sandwiches, cookies, a hot bar, fresh sushi, pizza, & more! • Hundreds of cheeses from all over the world • A great selection of organic and local produce • A curated selection of beer and wine for every taste & budget • A full-service Meat Department with fresh sausages made every day • A vibrant classroom space with a variety of classes offered to suit many interests
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01.01.16 // MYMERIDIANPRESS.COM
LOCAL NEWS
Meridian Press 2015 Year in Review Meridian stats, 2015
1) Linda Clark submits ‘forced resignation’ as West Ada superintendent
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he start of the 2015-16 school year came with surprising discord between some school board members and longtime superintendent Linda Clark. The tension was present from newly elected board members Russell Joki and Julie Madsen’s first meeting on July 7, when they criticized Clark’s contract and the way it was approved by their predecessors. This criticism later grew into a 4-1 decision by the board to void the third year of Clark’s contract. Trustees also questioned Clark’s ability to serve on the State Board of Education, which the governor appointed her to in July. On Oct. 23, Clark gave the public a twohour notice before she held a press conference and resigned. “The Board has made it abundantly clear that it is not interested in working with me on the issues that are most by Holly Beech hbeech@mymeridianpress.com important to this School District,” she wrote in her resignation letter. “From its first Board meeting in July, the © 2015 MERIDIAN PRESS Board told me that I needed an ‘exit strategy.’” Clark’s attorney and the board’s attorney started negotiating in September after two board members told Clark they wanted her gone, she said. Clark resigned abruptly after being asked by board members, she said, to “play nice” for two weeks and then quit after the Nov. 3 supplemental election. Joki and Madsen said they didn’t badger Clark to leave, but rather it was her intent to retire. Board member Mike Vuittonet, who served during all of Clark’s 11 years as superintendent, was the only trustee to stand up for Clark, saying he had seen other board members treat her poorly and felt that the new board members were pushing her to leave. On Oct. 29, the board voted 4-1 to terminate Clark’s contract rather than accept her resignation. The details of payouts have yet to be worked out, and Clark’s attorney said these disagreements could “unfortunately” lead to a lawsuit. After a regional superintendent search, the West Ada school board unanimously voted to hire Mary Ann Ranells, a veteran educator and former deputy superintendent of the Idaho Department of Education, as superintendent. She starts this week. Her salary and contract were still under negotiation as of print time.
Population (2014 U.S. Census estimate): 87,743 Meridian grew by 17 percent from 2010 to 2014, while the state’s population only grew by 4 percent. From 1990 to 2013, Meridian’s population grew by 771 percent. n Median age: 34 n Home ownership rate: 79 percent n 43 percent of adults have a college degree n Tax levy rate: 0.01333. Property owners generally pay $1,333 per $100,000 of taxable property value. n Meridian market value Total value, 2015: $8.5 billion Total value, 2014: $7.7 billion Taxable value, 2014: $6.6 billion Taxable value, 2015: $6 billion n City budget: $97.9 million n City staff: 389 full- and part-time employees, up from 184 in 2004-05. n Median household income: $63,260 (35 percent higher than statewide average) n Ada County median home price: $227,000, up from $209,900 in 2014 (measuring first three quarters of the year) n Unemployment rate: 3.3 percent n Job growth rate, 2014 to 2015: 4.3 percent n
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SOURCE: U.S. Census Bureau; Ada County Assessor; Boise Valley Economic Partnership; City of Meridian; Intermountain Multiple Listing Service; Idaho Department of Labor
2) Meridian Road Interchange undergoes major rebuild
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onstruction work hampered traffic on Interstate 84 and the Meridian Road Interchange all throughout 2015. But by December, all lanes of traffic on Meridian Road and the interstate reopened. The new interchange uses an urban model with a single traffic light — called a single-point urban interchange — with the goal of accommodating greater traffic flows more efficiently. Other busy interchanges in the Valley, such as Ten Mile and Vista Avenue, are also being built or rebuilt as SPUIs. This rebuild was “sorely needed,” Meridian Mayor Tammy de Weerd said at the April 2014 groundbreaking ceremony. The number of daily vehicle trips over and under the Meridian Road Interchange has grown from 15,000 when the bridge was built 50 years ago to 130,000 today, according to the Idaho Transportation Department. The $50.1 million project also included widening I-84 to four lanes in each direction from Meridian Road to Five Mile Road.
All photos submitted or MP file photos
3) School district passes bond and levy
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ost of the schools in the West Ada School District are overcrowded, according to district officials. Meridian was, after all, the 10th fastest growing city in the country from July 2013 to July 2014, according to the Census Bureau. West Ada, the largest school district in the state, has seen enrollment growth of almost 20,000 student in the last two decades. To help pay for new school sites and buildings, the district brought a $96 million bond before voters in March, which passed with 71 percent of the votes. Voters also approved a $28 million supplemental levy in November with 59 percent of the votes. The $14 million-per-year funding will help the district avoid cutting staff and school days. The district has relied on this two-year levy since voters first approved it in 2012.
DISTRICT REDRAW The patterns of the population growth means the district will need to redraw school attendance areas this year, officials said. A community work group formed by the district has been working to find the best solution and will present its findings to the school board Jan. 26. Three public presentations of the attendance area proposal will be held this month: n 7 p.m. Wednesday at Mountain View High School auditorium n 7 p.m. Jan. 13 at Meridian Middle School auditorium n 7 p.m. Jan 20 at Rocky Mountain High School auditorium
REGISTER at fitoneboise.org or by downloading the FitOne app.
4) Pro barrel racer, nurse Kayla Ingram helps save stroke victim’s life
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• $50 for first-time participants • $40 for past participants, team members, and St. Luke’s employees • $65 after January 9
4 WAYS TO WIN! #1 $10,000 for Biggest Losers #2 $15,000 Keep it Off Cash
#3 $2,000 for Top Team #4 Monthly drawings for cash & prizes
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:
A program of:
In partnership with:
Sponsors: 1386706
rofessional barrel racer Kayla Ingram, who works as a nurse at St. Luke’s Meridian Medical Center, was getting ready to race with her horse, Hoover, this spring at a New Plymouth barrel racing event when she heard people screaming. She sensed the situation was more urgent than a horse wreck or broken bone, and she jumped off her horse and ran to the commotion. She found 75-year-old Lonnie Wright, a well-known champion in the rodeo community, lying on the ground showing signs of a stroke. Ingram used to be St. Luke’s stroke program coordinator for the Treasure Valley, and she took the situation by the horns, knowing which questions to ask Lonnie’s wife and calling the emergency department with that information. She also knew to turn down people’s offers to give Wright some water, as that could have choked him. Her actions likely saved Wright from experiencing severe brain damage. Wright, who recovered and excelled in team roping at the National Senior Pro Rodeo just three months later, said he was lucky Ingram was racing that day.
5) ISU-Meridian opens new cadaver labs, bioskills center
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daho State University opened new anatomy and physiology laboratories and a bioskills center at its Meridian campus this year, providing the opportunity for health care students to learn by working with cadavers. “One of the best ways to learn the anatomy is to actually see it, as opposed to just pictures and diagrams in the textbook,” student Alison Eichenlaub said. “The facility is absolutely amazing, it’s beautiful. It’s been a fantastic learning experience and a wonderful supplement to what we have in class.” The bioskills center in the facility provides a venue for medical professionals to continue their education and for companies to introduce advances in medical devices.
Please see 2015, page 7 C M Y K
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2015 Continued from page 6
“It is a huge tool for the med-tech industry in the state of Idaho,” said Earl Sullivan, chairman of The CORE, a coalition that promotes Idaho’s medical-technical and health care industries. At the grand opening of the laboratories Sept. 24, two Idaho lawmakers called the new center a step toward bringing a medical school to Idaho. But university officials said they had not discussed it. The Idaho Legislature committed $3 million toward the $6 million project.
6) Hillsdale Elementary construction experiences bumps in the road
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“We’ll have all the available properties always listed and making sure that all the companies that are here are really looking at our downtown,” Meridian Economic Development Coordinator Brenda Sherwood said. The lab is a private for-profit company owned by Rick Ritter, who was also involved at The WaterCooler business incubator in Boise, and Sarah Pokorney. The start-up costs were about $35,000, said Ritter, who is the primary investor in the company. The city of Meridian pitched in by funding tenant improvements and leasing the building the New Ventures for $1 during the first year.
11) Library district creates ‘unBound’ digital services branch
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he Meridian Library District’s new downtown location doesn’t have rows and rows of books. Instead, you’ll find a podcast studio in the old vault of the former bank building. You’ll find a computer lab with creative editing software. You’ll find 3-D printers and other useful gadgets. “When most people think of a public library, they think of books, but this space is more than books. UnBound provides a space, connections and access to resources for entrepreneurs and small businesses with its hardware, software and technology expertise,” Library district director Gretchen Caserotti said at a preview event Oct. 14. Rick Ritter with New Ventures Lab said unBound will provide helpful tools to entrepreneurs using the lab. The building that houses unBound at 713 N. Main St. is owned by the Meridian Development Corporation, the city’s urban renewal agency.
est Ada School District trustees and residents questioned this year why the construction budget for Hillsdale Elementary jumped from $10 million in the March bond proposal to more than $14 million this fall. Bruce Gestrin, the district’s administrator of special projects, said the cost increase came from the unforeseen need to build a road and infrastructure to the donated school site, as well as changing the design of the school to fit into the multiuse facility, which will eventually include the YMCA. Sharing the facility will result in cost savings, Gestrin said. The extra $4.2 million will be covered by savings from other projects in the bond 12) City elections: Mayor elected to fourth term eridian Mayor Tammy de Weerd proposal. won her fourth term as mayor with Hillsdale is set to open in the fall of this year, but the YMCA has not set an open her largest victory margin yet of 78 date and is still fundraising. The organization had $7 million of the needed $28 milpercent. She faced two challengers, both of lion in August. The Meridian Library District also hopes to open a branch in the facility to serve whom were making their first run for politistudents and the public, but the bond to fund the project did not garner enough sup- cal office. With two longtime councilmen retiring port at the Nov. 3 election. at the end of 2015, two Meridian City Council seats were up for grabs. Voters elected 7) Community groups seek to recall West Ada trustees newcomer Ty Palmer, a young business- and rganizers of two separate recall comfamily-man who ran in 2013, and Meridian mittees are collecting signatures to Chamber of Commerce President and CEO recall West Ada School District trustAnne Little Roberts. Roberts said she will ees, possibly in the May 17 election. One continue to lead the chamber and will regroup is targeting veteran board member move herself from a council vote if a conflict Mike Vuittonet, and the other, led by Vuitof interest ever arises. tonet and former district leaders, is aimed at Genesis Milam, elected in 2013 to fill a newly created seat on the council, was the other four trustees. re-elected. The petition against the four trustees — None of the council candidates faced challengers. Tina Dean, Julie Madsen, Russ Joki and Carol Sayles — claims they should be recalled 13) The Village at Meridian continues to bring national retailers to Meridian for “failure to listen and respond to district nnouncements of new store openings patrons, unreasonable demands on district — 21, to be exact — continued to pour employees, disrespectful and disruptive beout of The Village at Meridian in 2015. havior in board meetings, and lack of transMajor developments included a second parency and fiscal responsibility.” The petition form against Vuittonet claims he “violated the Open Meeting Law Boise Co-op location and H&M’s second when he approved three illegal contracts with lucrative benefits for the superin- Treasure Valley location. Both retailers are tendent of schools, voted for increased central office administration costs, voted new to Meridian. Anthropologie, a fashion for contracting of inefficient student transportation services, did not object to a 40 retailer, moved its downtown Boise location percent cost overrun for the new Hillsdale Elementary, and supported the recall of to The Village. Victoria’s Secret and Walla other school board members who oppose his votes on the above and related matters Walla Clothing Company also hosted grand openings at The Village in 2015. during his more than 10 years of being on the school board.” The Village is at the corner of North EaThe signatures required in each trustee zone ranges from 253 signatures to 454 signatures. If all the necessary signatures are collected and verified, the trustee in gle Road and East Fairview Avenue and inthat zone will have the opportunity to resign. If not, the recall election would be cludes fashion retailers, home goods stores, restaurants, a movie theater, a gym, outlet scheduled. If a recall election is held, the number of votes must meet two thresholds in order stores and medical offices. The complex has a total of 66 retailers and 10 offices. for the trustee to be recalled. One, a majority of the votes cast at the recall election must be in favor of the recall. Two, “the number of votes cast in favor of the recall 14) Meridian named best place in America to live must equal or exceed the votes cast at the last general election for that officer” (Idanline news corporation 24/7 Wall St. ho Code 34-1712). named Meridian as the best place in America to live in November. Factors 8) Meridian Library bond falls 7 percent short at the polls in the report included crime rates, employment growth, education levels and access to he Meridian Library District’s $12 milentertainment and recreation. lion bond fell short of the two-thirds Meridian was up against 549 other U.S. majority vote needed to pass Nov. 3. cities with populations of 65,000 or more. The 20-year bond would have funded the Meridian’s safety and job growth helped construction of two new library branches, drive it to the top of the list. Only 80 violent including a branch in the Hillsdale Elemencrimes were reported per 100,000 residents tary and YMCA facility that’s being built in in Meridian last year, compared with a nasouth Meridian. tional rate of 366 per 100,000, according to The bond would have also funded the the report. purchase of land and construction of a Meridian is adding jobs faster than many branch in the Ten Mile Road/Chinden Boucities. Jobs in Meridian increased by 7.4 percent from 2012 to 2014, according to the levard area. report, compared with a national job growth rate of 1.8 percent. The city’s unemThe problems of overcrowded library ployment rate of 4.1 percent is 2 percent lower than the national average. branches, lack of parking, full programs and “When you’re getting accolades from a reliable source such as this one, I think waiting lists for computers still exist, MLD it always helps,” said Clark Krause, the executive director of Boise Valley Economic Director Gretchen Caserotti said in November. “We’ll regroup with the library board and discuss what they see as the next steps Partnership, which markets the Treasure Valley to employers. “I don’t think it ever for solving the problem that we have with our space capacity and serving the grow- will close the deal, but I think it is another attraction to our community.” ing community,” she said. The library district serves a population of almost 88,000 people and has more 15) Committee ramps up efforts for downtown redevelopment than 51,000 library card holders, she said. steering committee with members The district’s 2006 and 2007 bond proposals for new library branches also failed. from the city of Meridian, the Meridian Chamber of Commerce, the Me9) Meridian Boys & Girls Club builds new gym, teen center ridian Development Corporation (urban renewal) and the arts community sought a he Meridian Boys & Girls Club’s new developer this year to build a hotel, confergymnasium, which is high-school ence center and arts venue downtown Meregulation size, opens this month to ridian. The request for proposal didn’t get serve the hundreds students enrolled at the any hits from developers, but the steering club. The new teen center next to the gym is committee is moving forward with plans to slated to open in March. poll the public about its desire for this projConstruction costs came to $2.5 million ect. but would have been a lot higher had local “It is an area of our community that we firms not donated design and building serreally need to invest in, ... an area that we vices, Boys & Girls Clubs of Ada County Exneed to refocus our energy on as a commuecutive Director Colleen Braga said. The J.A. nity and pull that downtown together as a community gathering place,” said comand Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation, mittee member Autumn Kersey, founder of the Treasure Valley Youth Theater in the city of Meridian and other community downtown Meridian. partners also pitched in by donating funds. Downtown growth this year includes the opening of PreFunk Beer Bar, a place to “We kind of raised the funds in record time,” Braga said. “There were a lot of folks who contributed and made it possible.” hang out and grab a cold beverage; the digitally-focused unBound library location; The project doubles the club’s square footage in Meridian. The club serves an and the New Ventures Lab, with resources for entrepreneurs. The community lost average of 220 kids each day but has an enrollment of 500. The summer waiting list a longtime favorite restaurant on Main Street when Miss Tami’s Tea Cottage and Team Room closed in July. can stretch from 60 to over 100 kids. In September, the city’s new Youth Farmers Market made its debut. The goal is to “A lot of our kids don’t have a lot, so this is a very special place for them,” Meridian clubhouse Director Robyn Ure said. “I’m most excited to see their little faces, (when have primarily youth artists and vendors running the booths. The market will run weekly later this year. the gym opens), … just to see them light up. It’ll be awesome.” Another new attraction that came to the downtown area in 2015 was the Storey “Bark Park,” a designated dog park just south of the Meridian Speedway. 10) “New Ventures Lab” for tech innovators opens downtown ew Ventures Lab, a collaborative work space for entrepreneurs, opened this year in the former Meridian City Hall. The goal of New Ventures is to see young businesses grow and move into downtown Meridian buildings, bringing more jobs to the core of the city and generating more business for downtown retailers.
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[Downtown Meridian] is an area of our community that we really need to invest in.” AUTUMN KERSEY, steering committee member
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ON THE TOWN
ON
THE SIDE
If you go
Today Boise - Winter Garden aGlow, 6:00pm, Idaho Botanical Garden 2355 Old Penitentiary Rd. $10.00
WHAT: Idaho Laugh Fest
Saturday
WHEN:
Boise - Run Forever, Looming, Guests, 7:30pm, Neurolux 111 N 11th St
Jan. 7-9. Show times vary. WHERE: Various venues in Boise, including the Egyptian Theatre, Visual Arts Collective, The Hub and Liquid Laughs Comedy Club COST: Tickets range from free to $20 a show to $55 for an all-access pass. Now available online at idaholaughfest.com. EMAIL info@idaholaughfest.com
Courtesy of Megan Bryant
The Training Grounds improv company will return to Idaho Laugh Fest for a third time this year, offering a free family-friendly improv matinee at the Egyptian Theatre in Boise at 2 p.m. Jan. 9.
Idaho Laugh Fest brings comics to Boise for 3rd annual festival
Catch a few shows, take your family to a free improv matinee
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he Idaho Laugh Fest is back for its third year in Boise on Jan. 7-9. The festival, founded by Boise comedian Megan Bryant, has seen big success in its first two years, filling almost 3,500 seats last January. A free family workshop on improv, which will return this year, doubled in attendance in year two. More than 70 comedians, including Bryant, are slated to perform this year in 24 shows across a variety of Boise venues. Bryant said she’s never seen another comedy festival like this in Idaho, and it’s one of the largest of its kind in the Northwest. “I tried to put everything I could into it the first year ... to make sure it was very professionally done right out of the gate so it would have that credibility and be by Holly Beech an amazing experience,” Bryant said. “Once it went hbeech@mymeridianpress.com really well the first year, I just never let the momen© 2016 MERIDIAN PRESS tum slow down.” This year’s featured performers are Michael Malone, Kelsey Cook and Boise’s own Sherry Japhet. Though these might not be household names, they are quality comics with the right credentials in the world of comedy, Bryant said. Malone, for example, produced and starred in a recently released movie and has made TV appearances.
“We have had a lot more submissions this year (from comics),” Bryant said. “The level of talent went way up, so I was having to snip away really good comics just for the sake of room.” Along with standup and improv shows, community members are invited to enroll in workshops ranging from storytelling to improv basics to stage presence. The workshops aren’t just about being funny, they’re about confidence and public speaking, Bryant said. “It’s great for business people and comedians alike,” she said. “It brings out confidence in people in general and just better communication skills.” Idaho Laugh Fest offers something for all ages, Bryant said. Workshops cost $15 to attend, and tickets for the improv and standup shows range from free to $20. A VIP pass that covers the entrance fees to all the shows and workshops is $55. The festival partners with a local nonprofit each year, and this year a portion of ticket sales will go to the Idaho Youth Ranch. Bryant, who didn’t perform at last year’s festival because she was “giantly pregnant” (and due the weekend of the festival) will be back on the stage this year. Raised in Boise, Bryant has performed comedy across the Northwest for more than 10 years. Traveling and performing helped her shape the idea for the Idaho Laugh Fest, which continues to pick up momentum in its third year.
LOCAL NEWS
CIVICCALENDAR Monday Meridian Transportation Commission, 3:30 p.m., City Council Chambers, Meridian City Hall, 33 E. Broadway Ave. Meets first Monday of each month.
Tuesday
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 Allen D Gamel, CFP®, AAMS® 1710 S Wells Ave Suite 100 208-884-5175
Chris Klein 1820 N Lakes Place 208-888-7342 Les J Miller 3120 W Belltower Suite 125 208-288-4473 Mark R Nelson 3325 W Cherry Lane 208-846-8188
Meridian City Council meeting, 6 p.m., City Council Chamber, Meridian City Hall. Meets at 6 p.m. every first, third and fourth Tuesday, and at 3 p.m. every second Tuesday. Find the agenda at meridiancity.org under the “City Government” tab.
Ave., Meridian. Lunch is available for $12. Visit business.meridianchamber.org/events for details. AGENDA: Pat Rice, executive director of Boise Centre will be the guest speaker, discussing creating an auditorium district in Meridian. Planning and Zoning Commission, 6 p.m., City Council Chamber, Meridian City Hall. Meets every first and third Thursday.
Jan. 8
The Meridian Chamber of Commerce invites members to meet with local legislators for “Coffee with Your Legislators,” 6:30-7:30 a.m. at Maui Wowi Coffee Shop, Thursday 520 E. Franklin Road. Meridian Chamber of ComNote: Tickets are now on sale for merce Economic Development Mayor Tammy de Weerd’s State of Committee meeting, 12-1 p.m., the City address Feb. 3 at Meridian Mountain View Idaho Central Credit Middle School. Visit meridiancity. Union branch, 1615 S. Celebration org/soc2016/.
Sunday Nampa - Liberty Quartet Concert, 6:00pm, Nampa First Church of the Nazarene 601 16th Avenue S $0.00
Jan. 8 Nampa - Dancing for Birth Session I Begins, 8:00pm, Nampa Rec Center 131 Constitution Way $40.00 Boise - G-EAZY: 2016 “When It’s Dark Out” World Tour, 7:30pm, CenturyLink Arena 233 S Capitol Blvd $35.00 Boise - PARSONS DANCE, 8:00pm, Morrison Center for the Performing Arts 2201 W Cesar Chavez Ln Boise - The Servant of Two Masters, 8:00pm, Boise Little Theater 100 E Fort St
Jan. 9 Boise - The Lil’ Smokies, Jonathan Warren and the Billy Goats, 7:30pm, Neurolux 111 N 11th St Boise - Boise Contra Dance, 8:00pm, Broadway Dance Center 893 E. Boise Avenue $8.00 Meridian - SEASON OPENER 2016 MONSTER ENERGY SUPERCROSS, 7:00pm, SNAKE RIVER YAMAHA Snake River Yamaha Boise - Starbelly Dancers, 1:00pm, Boise International Market 5823 West Franklin Rd. $0.00 Garden City - Steel Panther, 9:00pm, Revolution Concert House 4983 North Glenwood Street $150.00 Boise - Upcoming Auditions: Cemetery Club, 2:00pm, Stage Coach Theatre 4802 W Emerald St
Jan. 12 Boise - BOISE Intermediate Acting (Tuesdays Jan. 12-Mar. 15), 4:30pm, Boise Little Theater 100 E. Fort St.
Jan. 13 Boise - Car Seat Headrest, Guests, 7:30pm, Neurolux 111 N 11th St Boise - SAVING ABEL, Breakdown Boulevard, Midline, The Forgotten, 6:30pm, Knitting Factory 416 S 9th St
Jan. 14 Boise - 100 WOMEN sponsor Lauren Weedman at BCT!, 5:30pm, Boise Contemporary Theater 854 W Fulton St Boise - The Art of Mindfulness, 7:00pm, Simpatico 1414 South Broadway Avenue Boise - Project Flux + MING 2016, 8:00pm, MING Studios 420 S 6th St Boise - Caught in the Net, 8:00pm, Stage Coach Theatre 4802 W Emerald St
Jan 15
DOG OF THE WEEK 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
Boise - Faculty Artists Series Recital - Jim Jirak, tenor and Mark Hansen, pianist, 7:30pm, Morrison Center for the Performing Arts 2201 W Cesar Chavez Ln
GETPUZZLED SOLUTIONS
Puzzles on page 4 Bananagrams: 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 Sudoku: 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. C M Y K
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Happy New Year to the communities we serve
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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 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
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FULL TIME AND PART TIME Caregivers Wanted!! These positions are located in Nampa, Boise, Caldwell, Horseshoe Bend & Homedale. Pay DOE; For more information please contact us at 466-9778 or email your resume to best_homecare_staff@yahoo.com
HEALTHCARE
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
CAT BOARDING Condos feature many luxurious amenities Our boarding services are especially perfect for your beloved cats. (208)353-5939
2013 FOCUS ST
4dr Hatchback Ecoboost, 6 speed Black Pearl, Like New Condition, LOADED! 4K miles $15,850 409-3702
Trinity Mission Health & Rehab of Midland 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.
LOW MILES!!!
Balewagons:
NH pull-type & self propelled models/parts/tires. Buy/Sell/Trade/Finance 880-2889 anytime Jim www.balewagon.com
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!
1994 GMC Van, Rally Van Dura
GENERAL
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
FURNITURE
Local Delivery,
(208)467-6175
STRAW $3.50/bale HAY $7.00/bale West of Caldwell Call 454-5146 or 570-2603. Delivery Available
with wheel-chair loader, excellent condition, white, has bed and televisions, many-extras, good-tires, must see and drive to appreciate! $6,800 459-0939
OUR CLASSIFIEDS GENERATE RESULTS! Contact us at 467-9253
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
Sandlewood Apartments Caldwell.
Call 459-4434. Equal Housing Opportunity PUBLIC PROXY BID AUCTION JANUARY 27TH 2016
MyMeridianClassifieds.com
Bid as soon as the vehicles are unveiled Friday January 22nd at 3:00 PM Mountain Time Bidding closes at 4:00 PM Wednesday January 27th***** *** 5 minute bid extension rule applies.
STORE CLOSING
Vehicles & other items from: State of Idaho Department of Fish & Game, State of Idaho Department of Health & Welfare, City of Boise, State of Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation, Boise State University, Idaho Department of Agriculture, State of Idaho Department of Corrections, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, State of Idaho Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Idaho Industrial Commission, Idaho State Police, Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind, ValleyRide, Treasure Valley Transit, plus independent consignment.
40% OFF ALL INVENTORY!
• New Clothing ˘• Groceries Free Gift Wrap With Purchase
Reach 110,000 Canyon County Readers each week!
524 Cleveland Blvd Caldwell OPEN 10-7
MyMeridianClassifieds.com
• Christmas Items
• gloves/hats
SomeDays Discount Store
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For more information, register and bid online at: http://daaid.autoremarketers.com Preview Monday before the bidding ending date from 10 am to 4 pm Information Subject to Change Brought to you by: Dealers Auto Auction of Idaho 3323 Port St. Nampa, ID 83687 208-463-8250 www.daaofidaho.com
Belonging or relating to a particular area or neighborhood, typically exclusively clusively so so.. Synonyms: community, district, regional, neighborhood, city, town, municipal, unicipal, county county
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