The Independent News January 2014

Happy New year FrOM aLL OF US aT

Free

Delivering Community News to Eagle, Star & W. Ada County JANUARY 2014

Volume 5 • Issue 1

In this issue:

Eagle Fire Department loses a brother Page 2

Eagle Country Christmas Page 11

www.theindnews.com

Eagle Graduate Receives Eagle Fire Lifesaving Award

By Philip A. Janquart A severe storm swept through the Treasure Valley Sept. 5, 2013, causing mudslides, flooding and property damage.

In Eagle, Jim Clarke had finished work early and was heading south on Eagle Road when violent winds pushed over an old-growth tree that landed on the cab of his truck, leaving him pinned, and injured.

Meanwhile, Chas Le Breton was across the street, working at a landscaping company, when his sister, Tess, showed up and told him what had happened.

Le Breton took action, attached forks to the company’s front loader and was able to lift the multi-ton tree off the truck in a matter of minutes.

It’s that very type of act the Eagle Fire Department likes to acknowledge with its Lifesaving Award, given to members of the community who go above and beyond the call of duty to lend a helping hand during emergencies.

Eagle Fire made a formal presentation Dec. 10 at Fire Station No. 1 in Eagle, honoring the Eagle High School graduate for his efforts. Le Breton, a freshman at Boise State University, was surrounded by family members, as well as fire crew and police that were on the scene that day.

Jim Clarke was there, too. He said he wasn’t sure how bad things were or if he would even escape with his life as he sat smashed between the caved-in roof and the back of his truck.

“I couldn’t move anything and my head was turned,” he said. “There was one point in time, where I couldn’t see anything, or hear anything, and it was so hard to breath, I kind of wondered.”

Without Le Breton’s fast action, things may have been worse. “Without guys like Chas Le Breton, and the others that have received this award, we might not be able to do some of the things we do,” said Eagle Fire Chief Mike Winkle. “We train for a lot of things, but lifting huge trees off vehicles, that’s a hard one. For Chas to operate a piece of machinery he wasn’t very familiar with, and do the things he did to help us save the individual next to him, and make a better outcome, is pretty special.”

Le Breton has only worked for the landscaping company for about a year and is relatively inexperienced at driving the front loader. In total, he had about 200 hours driving the piece of heavy equipChas (center), his sister Tess (left) and the man ment, which is equivalent to about three they helped rescue, Jim Clarke (right). weeks driving a car for the first time.

Eagle firefighter Rexford Wilkosz said it was a “It was a shocking scene. I had never seen or miracle he survived. “You wouldn’t have believed heard of anything like it,” he said. “All I rememhow big that tree was and how he was pinned in ber is that he (Clarke) was saying ‘help me, help the vehicle!” me, it’s hard to breath. With all the adrenaline The tree was so big, Clarke’s boss, who was going through my body, I just knew this is where right behind him in traffic, and another unidentified Good Samaritan, were unable to pull the tree I needed to be and the Lord put me there, in the right time and place, and it was a part I had to off with their four-wheel-drive trucks. play in helping the man.”

“In fact, I was told the one guy tore his truck Le Breton, who is studying business finance up trying to get it off. I kind of wish I knew who he was because I think he deserves some recogni- and is a member of Boise State’s Honor College, said he was just relieved to learn Clarke would tion, too.” said Clarke, who suffered a broken recover. femur and two fractured bones in his neck that “I was not expecting this recognition,” he said. required surgery to repair. Although slow – he “It’s been very gratifying to know Jim’s okay has lots of physical therapy left in his future and I could be a pro-active member of the Clarke says he is recovering. community.”

Photo Credit Andrea Dearden

Star Community Theater Page 12

Eagle Fire Crews work to extricate Jim Clarke from his truck Sept. 5, 2013.

From left, Chas’ father Dean, Chas, mother Armida and sister Tess.

From left, Eagle Fire Chief Mike Winkle, Chas Le Breton, Jim Clarke and firefighter Rexford Wilkosz, who was onsite with many other Eagle firefighters and police officers.

Say you saw it in the Independent News Visit and support your community businesses for products, Goods or serVices competitiVe with any treasure Valley business for Quality & Value: Businesses are noted for membership in the Chamber of Commerce: Eagle (E) or Star (S). eagle chamber of commerce 939-4222, star chamber of commerce 908-5476

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PAGE 2 • January 2014

COMMUNITY

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Eagle Firefighter dies after complication from surgery Courtesy of Eagle Fire Department Brandon Erickson, an Eagle Fire Department Captain, died Thursday, November 21, 2013 after a complication from back surgery. The 36-year-old underwent surgery on Wednesday, November 20, 2013 for an injury he received while on-duty.

Brandon began working for There is now a Eagle Fire Department in April permanent tribute to 2013. He came to Eagle after Brandon on the back of spending the previous five Eagle Fire Engine 43. years working for the Meridian Fire Department as a firefighter and paramedic.

“Brandon is a community hero, not just for helping our citizens in need but for bettering the lives of all who knew him,” said Meridian Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer. “Brandon was so compassionate; he had a continued thirst for knowledge and Fire helmets are always worked to find the good marked with BE RFB in humanity. When we were which stands for waiting for our new EMS Chief, Brandon Erickson, Brandon gladly filled the role Rest Fallen Brother. for 6 months and was an in-

Brandon with his daughter Meghan and wife Bonnie

credible asset for us. To know Brandon was to love him. He will be greatly missed.”

“Brandon was one of the best instructors – one of the best people – I’ve ever known. If I had a firefighter who was having trouble mastering a skill, I took him to Brandon. He found a way to connect with everyone. It was his gift,” said Eagle Fire Chief Mike Winkle. “This is a tremendous loss for our agency and for fire/EMS personnel across the country.”

Brandon leaves behind a wife, son and daughter. In-lieu of flowers, an account has been set up in Brandon’s name at Idaho Central Credit Union for anyone wishing to help the family. They are asking for privacy during this difficult time.

Brandon with his son Jack and wife Bonnie

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

COMMENTARY

January 2014 • PAGE 3

Joe’s View A while back, I wrote a brief story about a set of footprints I saw in a concrete sidewalk. The slab containing the prints was quite old. It was in an area where houses used to be at one time, but had been removed for a new building.

I wondered, in print, about who created the foot prints. They were side by side and as if some young child, judging by the size of them, hopped onto the slab or was placed there by a parent marking an occasion or a milestone.

Or perhaps just because the concrete was wet.

Was there a need of this child to mark his or her place in the world? Or the parent trying to create a place of reflection much later in both of their lives? I also wondered if I was reading way too much into what some would call simple vandalism.

I have returned to places of the past and while there, a lot of mixed emotions surface. I have been back to old houses of ours and have been disappointed about how much has changed. I have also been pleased on how much has changed. Ever plant a tree at a house and go back in 20 years and say “Yes! That’s what I hoped it would be some day!” We joke now that the trees we plant are really for the next family.

Schools from the past seem to be much smaller. Towns seem to have disappeared and cities sit in their place. Roads get wider and faster despite a stop light now at every intersection. Just ask anybody who has been around here since Eagle road was a light-free two laner.

Remember ripping up Eagle Road, crossing Chinden at full speed and just about getting wheels off the ground? I am surprised our Dodge Caravan survived those leaps. The kids in the back seat loved the brief moment of weightlessness.

So what is it about the past that draws us back? There are new trends in kitchen design that look a lot like the Craftsman style of the Bungalow homes from nine decades ago. Are we remembering Great Grandmas home? Can we feel the presence of time and bring it forward to our own homes. In my opinion, you bet.

There is something to be said for the statement that the good old days were not necessarily good, just old. We have some wonderful blessings today of convenience, efficiency, responsibility, sustainability, and versatility not even dreamed of then. Just look around your home and identify all the things not even invented 50 or 80 years ago. But we have also been victims of our own over consumption and excess.

Is that what makes us want to go find our own footprints in the concrete? Are we attracted to a simpler time with a less cluttered life? I don’t know about you, but for me, this has some real validity.

My thanks to the person who bought our last house. When replacing some concrete, she saved a section that has my Daughters footprint and delivered it to our new home. It is now in a flower bed and some day, an older version of her, perhaps with her own kids, will stand over that concrete and have a conversation.

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. ~ Nelson Mandela

Listen to The HomeFix Radio Show with Joe Prin, Saturday mornings, 7-10 AM on 670 KBOI or on your mobile device through Facebook at “The HomeFix Radio Show”.

Email your questions or comments to joe@joeprin.com. Podcasts of previous radio shows and columns are available at JoePrin.com.

A Teacher’s

Perspective

Year of the Snake

By Anna Eaton-Merkle I just noticed that the Year of the Snake will be ending January 31, 2014. While this may not seem like a very big deal to most people, it hit me like a ton of bricks. See, this was my year, seeing that I was born during a snake year, and it was supposed to have some kind of special significance to me. I am not sure exactly what that meant, but I chose to interpret it as though money and power were headed at me like flies to a jar of honey. Then, I looked at the calendar and realized that I only had a few more weeks to realize the full potential of this significant year. It was a feeling like that nightmare we all have where we have been enrolled in a college class all semester but forgot to go until it was time to take the final.

This led me to ponder how my Year of the Snake could have gotten away from me so quickly. It seems that time is relative. Now I am quite sure that I am not the first person to realize this – doctoral theses have probably been written to this effect – but I was still trying to work the numbers in my head. Was it really 12 months ago that I saw my year of plenty stretching out luxuriously ahead of me? The list of things I was going to accomplish was stellar, of this I am certain, and yet I cannot remember a thing. This is a fair indicator that I also didn’t accomplish any of them. So where did all that time go?

Here lies the relativity. As anyone with older kids will tell you, time bends itself in a cruel manner, slowing down when a baby is crying all night and then turning to light speed when suddenly that baby is getting a driver’s license. There is no time that moves more quickly than the two weeks’ vacation allotted for a year’s worth of work. And yet, on a Friday afternoon, the time it takes to

move from 2 to 3 o’clock could carve the Grand Canyon. Waiting in the dentist’s office can add years to one’s life, time that is sucked away in increments every time one is late and trying to make up five minutes on a ten minute drive.

Things less obvious seem to work into this equation as well. For instance, I was shocked to discover that the box holding some of my Christmas lights had never actually made it out of my dining room and into the garage with all the other Christmas decorations. It wasn’t until I needed to use them again that I realized that I had been stepping over them and decorating around them for an entire year.

It isn’t fair that I am aware of this. I think that I would enjoy my life much more if I didn’t stop to ponder, but I can’t help it. My inclination is to observe and record, albeit I do also tend to ignore and rationalize. However, none of this has solved my current dilemma. I have about a month to accomplish all the great things I was supposed to accomplish during this, my year of fortune and luck. Yet, I feel as though I don’t have the time to stop and figure out exactly what those things are.

I know that I am not alone here. The fickle nature of time seems to be a universal complaint. Personally, I have wasted hours that felt like minutes online, dreaming of vacations, trying to find the perfect purse, or watching YouTube videos. If I actually had all that time back, I would probably have my laundry done and my bills paid on time. As it is, I am still trying to figure out a way to transfer all the minutes that have multiplied while watching piano recitals and soccer tournaments into an extra hour a day. If used frugally, that could really amount to something.

Anna Eaton-Merkle lives and teaches in Eagle. Her latest project is the blog found at www.thinkinginthemargins.com that showcases many of her favorite articles from the Independent and a few that have never been published. She updates it every Monday – Like it on Facebook!

There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered. ~ Nelson Mandela

PAGE 4 • January 2014

BUSINESS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Star Galaxy Salon relocates

By Jennifer Anderson Star Galaxy Salon is located at 9894 W. Star Galaxy recently relocated to the east State St. in Star. You can reach them at 208side of Star, next to Kringles Korner in Es286-7331 for appointments, information, trella plaza. The location is new, but many and directions. of the faces are still familiar.

The full service salon is tastefully decorated with a modern chic feel and includes European shampoo bowls that are adjustable for neck height, offering maximum comfort.

Using Surface hair products, an all-natural, organic and gluten-free product, Star Galaxy strives to give your hair and skin the best treatment possible. Surface is great for Star Galaxy Salon has relocated at everyday use, even the most sensitive skin.

9894 W. State St. in Star Specializing in hair color, cuts, perms, waxing, artificial nails, Bring in this pedicures, and Rock Star gel toes, article and Star Galaxy is the perfect place to receive 20% off get ready for your next big event or all retail Surface figure out your best new look. Ask about prom and wedding packages products and or maybe just a girls day out. services during With six hair stylists and two the month of nail techs, the salon is prepared to 2014.

January handle your beauty care needs.

Open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and additional The salon uses Surface products, times by appointment, Star Galaxy welcomes an all-natural, organic and men, women and children to start the New gluten-free product.

Year out right with a great haircut.

Massaging pedicure thrones are a great way to relax while getting your Rock Star gel toes.

European shampoo bowls are adjustable for maximum neck comfort.

Add your organization's events to our online calendar and visit regularly to see what's happing in Eagle and Star. www.theindnews.com.

Clearly Natural, treat your skin right in 2014

By Jennifer Anderson April Smith, licensed Esthetician and owner of Clearly Natural, has been a cosmetologist for over thirty years, but for the last six years she has focused on her real passion – skin care. Joining with other like-minded individuals in a Cooperative Wellness clinic in Star, April offers a plethora of skin care services including facials, peels, waxing, and more.

You can reach April at 208-272-0615 or stop in and make an appointment at 11152 W. State St., ste 103, Star, ID.

Clearly Natural is located in the Cooperative Wellness offices located at 11152 W. State St., ste 103 in Star, ID.

November 21, 2013, the Star Chamber of Commerce celebrated April Smith’s business, Clearly Natural Skin Care, with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

January 2014 • PAGE 5

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

By Gretchen Anderson I hate her. Ugh. I know “hate” is a strong word. So, maybe I should write, “I really, really dislike her.”

I don't think it's possible to go through life without accumulating a nemesis here or there, a person with whom you desire no contact. You don't want to be in the same room, let alone the same city or even the same hemisphere. I have one of these. And, while I currently venture all measures to avoid her, I am also silently and genuinely thanking her.

It happened like this. About two years ago, her social media was abuzz with her new found love of... yoga. She was posting selfies of her radical yoga poses in the Idaho wilderness. I have to admit the photos were stunning. She skillfully chronicled her “30 Day Yoga Challenge” in clever prose and captivating photos. Dozens of people would comment and cheer her on.

My reaction? “ … bitch.”

I admit it. I was green with envy—a very un-yoga like thing to be. I practiced yoga for a while when my spawn were little and then after the last kid was born it was like I forgot about it, until I saw her photos.

So, it’s from that jealousy that I got motivated. I started my own private “30 Day

Yoga Challenge.” The idea is, if you do something for 30 days straight, it becomes a habit.

I checked into the YMCA’s offering of classes and determined the best ones for me to take were first thing in the morning—fewer excuses. It wasn’t always easy to meet the challenge. I found the biggest obstacle was the voice in my head saying, “You can skip a day… think of what you could accomplish in that hour?” But, I persevered—30 days straight. Sometimes I even did my own home practice.

I have taken classes at the “Y” before. I even wrote about my Zumba experiences in this column. Once the Zumba class would start, I would have to make a conscience decision to move either the lower or the upper part of my body. I couldn’t do both. I am that uncoordinated. It’s pathetic. But, the music and the energy is great! It’s just not for me.

Maybe that’s why yoga seems to work for me. The movements are all pretty slow—and you progress at your own pace. When I first started, my lack of balance was embarrassing.

But that quickly changed. Each time I’d nail a pose or stay balanced for a significant amount of time, I’d do a little yoga dance-of-joy in my head.

It’s been 18 months since I started the challenge and I’m hooked on this shoeless workout. I have much more flexibility, I’ve dropped weight and I have made friends in my yoga class.

The other day, my yoga instructor, Kimberly, read a quote that resonated with me, “’Love’ is the bridge between you and everything.” I thought about that—and while love is the farthest thing I feel toward my nemesis. I do love what her actions have done for me.

©January 2014 Gretchen Anderson. Gretchen Anderson is an award winning writer and author of the book on the urban chicken movement.

“The Backyard Chicken Fight,” is currently available at Zamzows.

Contact Gretchen at thebycf@gmail.com.

LLC

Anderson Independent Publishing, LLC dba The Independent News © 2013 Publisher/Editor Jennifer Anderson PO Box 2541 Graphic Designer Mary Shaw Eagle, ID 83616 Printer Owyhee Publishing (208) 550-3111 Advertising Randy Miskimon (208)794-6858 theindnews.story@gmail.com Reporters Phil Janquart, Mickie Park

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January 15, 2014 The Independent News is published monthly, on the 1st. It is a free publication mailed direct to homes in Eagle and Star, with additional distribution in West Boise and North Meridian. Distribution of this publication does not constitute responsibility for products or services advertised. Article submissions, opinions or letters to the editor published in The Independent News do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. The publisher of The Independent News reserves the right to edit material on length and clarity and to reject any material deemed libelous or offensive in nature. Advertising or submissions may be rejected at any time, for any reason. The entire contents of The Independent News is copyrighted by Jennifer Anderson, Publisher.

Contributors for this issue: Gretchen Anderson, Jennifer Anderson, Andrea Dearden, Anna Eaton-Merkle, Cathy Hardy, Colleen Horuchi, Kim Ingraham, Phillip Janquart, Trina Kubitschek, Joy Lear, Taylor Munson, Mickie Park, Joe Prin, Tammy Sullivan-Watson, Tom Wick Press Release Policy

Letters to the Editor Policy

The Independent News publishes press releases distributed by businesses or organizations. The release should be NO MORE than 300 words in length. If a release is submitted that is longer, The Independent News will either send it back to you for editing, or we will edit it. If you are a new business in town, or an existing one that would like some coverage, The Independent News routinely provides business profiles for our local businesses.Please contact us at 550-3111 or email us at theindnews.story@gmail.com.

Maximum length is 250 words, 600 words for a Guest Opinion. You must identify yourself and include a phone number where you can be reached for verification. We will not publish telephone numbers or email addresses. All letters printed are the opinion of the writer and The Independent News cannot verify the accuracy of the information submitted. Any material submitted that is deemed libelous, offensive or in poor taste will not be printed. All material is subject to editing by this newspaper. Guest Opinions will be printed on a case by case basis and all material submitted will be printed as space allows. You may submit letters to theindnews.story@ gmail.com or mail to PO Box 2541, Eagle, ID 83616.

w w w. t h e i n d n e w s . c o m

Around Eagle . . . . . . By Mayor Jim Reynolds The contention continues between the Ada County Highway District and the residents of Beacon Light Road. The City has no jurisdiction, but does offer recommendations about future construction plans. Originally, the City followed the guidance as laid out in our Comprehensive Plan which calls for building to 3 lanes of traffic and preserving for 5 lanes as the traffic load requires. After an avalanche of mail and emails from Beacon Light residents and friends of preserving the roads bucolic charm, the Council reversed its position and came out strongly in favor of limiting future growth to three lanes in perpetuity. Beacon Light Road now carries approximately 190 cars per hour during peak travel hours. Expected growth over the next 25 years in both Eagle and Star may increase that peak to 1,500 cars per hour, and more. The 3-lane solution will serve the road to a maximum of 900 cars per hour, more than five times its current load. To preserve that rural charm,

The City will need to limit growth along Beacon Light, and roads that may use it as an arterial, if we are to stay within the 3-lane traffic load.

The City continues to grapple with the Terrain Park and the differing interpretations of the terms of the 99-year lease the City has with Ada County. We believe the term “concessionaire” includes public-private partnerships such as Ada County has with Les Bois and the Fairgrounds. The County believes it includes only hot dog and snow cone stands.

The County solution is to renegotiate the lease on property in which Eagle taxpayers have invested more than $1.7 million in infrastructure. Their alternative is to sell the City all or part of the 286 acres encompassing the terrain park, numerous mountain bike trails and the buffer area with the dump.

Read more about the city of Eagle from Mayor Reynolds on our website: www.theindnews.com.

PAGE 6 • January 2014

CITY OF EAGLE

City of Eagle Meetings Eagle City Hall 660 E. Civic Lane • 939-6813 www.cityofeagle.org

Eagle City Council Meetings 2nd and 4th Tuesday • 6:30 pm

Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting 1st and 3rd Monday • 6:00 pm

Park and Pathways Development Commission 3rd Tuesday • 6:30 pm

Eagle Arts Commission Meeting 1st Tuesday, 6:30 pm, Eagle City Hall

Eagle Sewer District Board Meeting 2nd Monday of the month • 6:00 pm District’s administration building 44 N. Palmetto Ave., Eagle, 939-0132

Eagle Historic Preservation Commission Meeting 2nd Wednesday, 5:30-6:30 pm, Eagle Historical Museum (67 E. State St.)

Eagle Government Relations Committee Meeting 4th Wednesday, 9-10 am, Bank of the West 47 E. Riverside Drive, Eagle, ID Call Eagle Chamber 939-4222

Eagle Senior Center 312 E. State Street, 939-0475 Monday Exercise at 9:00 am Tuesday Lunch and Pinochle at 12:00 pm Wednesday Exercise at 9:00 am Thursday Lunch and Bingo at 12:00 pm Friday Exercise at 9:00 am

Eagle Chamber of Commerce January 2014 Calendar of Events can be found at www.eaglechamber.com For information about Eagle Chamber of Commerce upcoming events or to reach the Chamber, contact Gretchen at: 208-939-4222, gretchen@eaglechamber.com

View more information regarding the City of Eagle Agendas and Minutes at www.cityofeagle.com.

ITD Holds Open House for Highway 55 Corridor Study

By Philip A. Janquart The Idaho Transportation Department held an open house Dec. 17 at Shadow Valley Golf Course in Eagle, giving the public the opportunity to weigh in on the agency’s Highway 55 corridor study.

The Study is intended to identify current and future needs through the corridor, which extends 1.7 miles south of Marsing and ends at the U.S. 95 junction in New Meadows, northwest of McCall.

The corridor runs right through Eagle where the State Street and Eagle Road intersection has become the busiest in Idaho, and an important focal point of the study, according to ITD Senior Planner Mark Wasdahl.

Wasdahl was on hand at the open house to answer questions and take comments he said would help shape the agency’s plan for Highway 55, which is listed as a National Scenic Byway.

According to the ITD, “the study will result in a corridor plan that identifies policies and projects important to the development of this major arterial over the next 20 years.”

Wasdahl said public comment is taken seriously and can have a direct impact on highway plans.

“We are letting the community know that we are looking at the highway and that we want their input on the improvements they think might be needed,” he said. “We just finished the highway 55 plan for Owyhee and Canyon Counties. We had some input concerning something in the plan I didn’t think was an issue. So, we went out and took another look, and discovered that it was an issue. Now it is a recommended project.”

Mark Wasdahl, right, discusses the Highway 55 Corridor Study with an Ada County resident at the Idaho Transportation Department's Dec. 17 open house.

The study will take a look at some of the issues directly affecting Eagle, along with issues concerning the portion of Highway 55 just north of the city, up to the Banks-Lowman Road.

“It’s an interesting road because at one time of year, you have 1,000 cars going north in a day,” Wasdahl said. “Then, in July, it will be 11,000. Traffic is not a problem on many days, but you’ll hit the summer and things change. If you look at the numbers, however, the highway is working.”

Wasdahl said more passing lanes are planned for that part of the highway and that three bridge projects are scheduled for summer 2016.

“We have a lot of bridge projects because many of our bridges are 50 years old, or older, and that is the nominal life span for those,” he said. “Some go longer, but the rule of thumb is 50 years.”

Included in the construction plan is a bridge in Horseshoe Bend, just south of town.

Wasdahl said there are also two pavement preservation projects scheduled, one extending 20 miles and the other 30 miles.

“It’s going to be quite a summer for construction in 2016,” he said.

Other components affecting future traffic on the highway include Spring Valley’s (M3) 7,000home development northwest of Eagle and another, Avimor, located northeast of Eagle, right off Highway 55.

Wasdahl said he hopes to have the results of the study posted on the ITD’s website some time in January. The public is encouraged to provide comment.

For more information on the study, log on to http://itd.idaho.gov/Projects/D3/ID55Corridor/.

The Idaho Transportation Department answered questions and took comments on its Highway 55 Corridor Study.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

EAGLE LIBRARY January Events The Library will be closed Monday, January 20 for Human Rights Day.

~ ON-GOING PROGRAMS ~ Monday, January 6, 13, 27 Baby Readers: 10:30 a.m. (ages birth – 18 months) Miss Suzanne presents stories, songs, and fingerplays for babies and their caregivers.

Monday, January 6, 13, 27 Knee Deep in Legos: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6+) Weekly program for children ages 6 – 12 to use their creativity in building/designing with LEGOS. Tuesday, January 7, 14, 21, 28 Toddler Time: 10:30 a.m. (ages 18 months – 3 years) Toddlers and their caregivers are invited to join Miss Janice for stories, songs, and crafts.

Wednesday, January 8, 15, 22, 29 Music & Movement: 10:30 am (ages birth – 5 years) Early literacy skills are built through rhythm and motion in this interactive program for young children and their caregivers.

Wednesday, January 8, 15, 22, 29 Tales to Tails: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. (ages 5+) Practice your reading skills -- read to a friendly, attentive dog! Sign up for a 15-minute session at the Children’s Reference Desk.

Wednesday, January 8, 15, 22, 29 Teen Advisory Board: 4:15 p.m. (ages 14+) Earn volunteer hours, enjoy socializing with your peers, and enjoy a snack while assisting your library in a variety of ways.

Wednesday, January 29 Underground Book Club: 4:15 p.m. (grades 8 - 12) A monthly student-led book club.

Copies of book selections are available at the Circulation Desk. January: “The Book Thief” , February: “The Thief Lord” Thursday, January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Preschool Story Time: 10:30 a.m. (ages 3 – 5 years) Join Miss Ruby Slippers for stories, songs, and surprises.

Thursday, January 9, 23 The Writer’s Forum: 4:15 – 5:15 p.m. (teens, grades 10 – 12) A student-guided forum. Teens are invited to present their own and explore peers’ creative writing. A new topic is introduced each meeting.

Friday, January 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Ready, Set, School! 10:30 a.m. (ages 3 – 5 years) This program combines fun with school-readiness skills.

Friday, January 3, 17, 31 Knitting Club: 10:00 a.m. (adults) Share your passion for knitting, learn new techniques, and enjoy socializing while creating items to be donated to various charitable organizations.

~ SPECIAL PROGRAMS ~ All Month Resolutions, Dreams, and Aspirations: (teens) Post on the Eagle Public Library Teens Facebook page, and/or cover the bulletin board in the Young Adult corner with your submissions and photos.

Tuesday, January 7 Mad Science: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6 - 12) In this month’s after-school STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program: The Science of Sound Thursday, January 9 Reader’s Choice Book Club: 4:15 p.m.

(4 – 6 graders, ages 9 – 11) Bring whatever you are currently reading and join a club that is all about books, food, and fun.

Tuesday, January 14 Kids Can Cook: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6 - 12) Dips and Spreads

Wednesday, January 15 Pajama Story Time: 7:00 p.m. (ages 3 – 8) Come in your pj’s for stories, songs, a craft, and a bedtime snack. This month: Snowmen Tuesday, January 21 BINGO: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6 - 12) B-I-N-G-O! Fill up a row and win a prize!

Friday, January 24 Book Buying Party: 4:15 p.m. (teens) Bring your laptop and search the web to compile a recommended list of “teen choice” media for the Library.

Tuesday, January 28 Crafty Kids: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6 - 12) Let’s make Valentines! A smorgasbord of materials will be provided.

www.eaglepubliclibrary.org

Sudoku - Solution on page 15

January 2014 • PAGE 7

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Saint Alphonsus Medical Group dedicates new clinic in Eagle

By Jennifer Anderson Nancy Powell, Chief Administrative Officer for Saint Alphonsus Medical Group, said during the recent dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony of the new family medical clinic in Eagle, “This has been a part of our vision, to bring care close to home.” The ceremonies took place Wednesday, December 4, 2014 at the clinic in Eagle located at 600 E. State St., Eagle.

In addition to Powell, Nathan Smith, Director of Operations for Saint Alphonsus Medical Group; Kathe Coate, NP-C for the Clinic at Eagle; Jim Reynolds, Mayor of Eagle; and Sister Beth Mulvaney, Mission Educator for Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center all spoke a few words expressing their excitement about the new partnership and the opportunities available for the community.

Kathe Coate has been working in Eagle since 1995 and opened the wellness clinic that is now to be the Clinic at Eagle under Saint Alphonsus administration in 2000.

Coate wanted to thank Saint Alphonsus Medical Group for bringing the opportunity for

quality healthcare to the downtown corridor.

The clinic will continue to support the wellness model as well as treating regular and walk-in patients. Powell said, “I truly believe this is going to be an incredible thing for the patients and the community.”

The clinic, Coate said, will have the ability to draw blood, treat all aspects of family care, take urgent care and walk-ins, have access to a close x-ray, and manage chronic illnesses; however, the main focus of the clinic is illness prevention.

Part of the facility opening included first a Prayer of Blessing by Sister Beth Mulvaney invoking God’s blessings upon the facility and those who work and use the clinic followed by a sprinkling rite. Eagle Chamber of Commerce members then welcomed Saint Alphonsus to the Eagle community with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

The Clinic at Eagle’s hours are Monday and Tuesday 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., and Wednesday through Friday 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Why go further than you have to for quality care, stop in today.

The Eagle Chamber of Commerce welcomed Saint Alphonsus Medical Group to downtown Eagle with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Most of the staff at the Clinic at Eagle have been working together for some time and are ready to help you with your healthcare concerns.

Nancy Powell is the Chief Administrative Officer for the Saint Alphonsus Medical Group

Sister Beth Mulvaney, Mission Educator for Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, blessed the new facility and performed a sprinkling rite.

PAGE 8 • January 2014

EAGLE NEWS The Independent News • www.theindnews.com Bones, Tucker move into Eagle Detective positions Crimes in Eagle include property, prescription drugs

Business Contest Enter your business in our online Business Directory and be entered to win a free 1/6 page ad during the month of your choice. A $281 value.

By Philip A. Janquart What about crime in Eagle?

Chris Bones and Cherie Tucker have According to Bones and Tucker, crime in filled open detective positions within the Eagle mostly involves property. Part of their Eagle Police Department. The vacancies aim is to get people in the habit of locking were created by the departure of Det. their doors despite the sense of security Eagle Marlon McCowan and Det. Mike Dillon. provides.

McCowan hasn’t gone far, moving into “They are mostly crimes of opportunity,” Eagle’s newly created Neighborhood Bones said. “One of the things we want to Contact/Traffic Officer position. push out there is don’t give these nefarious Dillon left Eagle to work with a special individuals the opportunity to do it. A lot of task force called Internet Crimes Against the opportunities come with unlocked vehiChildren (ICAC). cles, and unlocked houses, that’s a benefit of The task force works to apprehend and living in such a safe community like Eagle, prosecute individuals who use the Internet but sometimes you get that false sense of seto criminally exploit children, according to curity. So, for the five years that you lived ICAC Idaho’s website. here, you might have gotten away with leavDet. Bones ing your front door unlocked when you go to Bones moved to Meridian and began work, or when you go out for the day, but working in law enforcement in 2006, there is that one time that some guy is walkstarting in the Ada County jail before ing down the street looking for unlocked moving to patrol, then to Detective in front doors and cars.”

Eagle in October A relatively new 2013. “I came issue that has here for a better plagued communilifestyle,” he said. ties across the na“I grew up in tion is the use of southern Califorprescription drugs, nia and when my a problem that is wife and I started likewise prevalent looking for places in eagle. to raise a family, “Drugs are the this is where we underbelly in a lot wanted to be. of communities,” Every once in a Bones said. “A big while you look trend we see all back; one day I across the valley is was looking at the use of preChris Bones and Cherie Tucker the L.A. Times scribed narcotics. and just in the To me that’s a big one city where I previously worked, there thing that parents and grandparents needs have been 63 homicides since 2007, in an to be aware of, that those things need to be area of about 127,000 people. That is just securely locked up or put someplace because the one city, not the other cities touching it that’s where we are seeing a big trend right on either side.” now, especially underage narcotics through Det. Tucker prescription medication.”

Tucker moved from Washington to Idaho But teens aren’t the only ones, adults can with her family when she was 17. She inadvertently put themselves, and others, in started her career as a dispatcher for the danger through the use of prescription medAda County Sheriff’s Office and moved to ications when used at the wrong time, or patrol eight years later. In 2006, she bemixed with alcohol or other drugs. came a detective for Major Crimes within “I can think of a couple really bad crashes the Sheriff’s Office. She stepped in to fill out here, a couple of people who were under one of the vacant detective positions in the influence of medications like that,” Eagle in October 2013.

Tucker said. “You can potentially be arrested.

“During that time, I mostly did persons’ Let’s say you are prescribed a pain medication crimes, meaning any felony that involves a and it says right on there ‘Do Not Drive,’ yet person as a victim, like sex crimes or vioyou have to go to work, but you get in a crash lent crimes, and some child abuse,” Tucker on the way; we are going to investigate it and said of her experience with Major Crimes. if it comes to light that you were impaired, “I don’t enjoy going through the evidence either by taking too much medication or a in those cases, which is what you have to combination of things, you could be held lido as the lead – it’s not fun.” able.” Bones and Tucker say they just want to Both detectives say they have enjoyed keep residents safe. working in Eagle so far and that one of the “I guess it’s the old adage, trying to help biggest surprises is the willingness of the people and get involved in the community,” community to get involved.

Tucker said. “I have four kids and I feel like I “I love it, I think it’s a great community,” can really have an impact in my community Tucker said. “Like Chris was saying, people by being involved in the crimes that I am inare a lot more willing to collaborate with volved in, and unfortunately, now that I know us. They want to be a part of law enforcewhat’s out there, I don’t know how I could do ment, like the Greenbelt Patrol, which is anything else. I feel like it’s really worthwhile starting up again. I think it is so awesome work.” that the citizens are involved and want to The Eagle Police Department consists of make it a safer community.”

Ada County Sheriff’s Office personnel contracted by the city to provide police services.

s r e in d W a Re ipate to that easy! ic t ’s r t I a .

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EAGLE FIRST FRIDAY

January 2014 • PAGE 9

A few fun moments during Eagle's First Friday in December

(L-R) Marjorie Reinecker, Cherry Woodbury, Laurie Johnson, and Lori Seale (all members of the Southwest Idaho Watercolor Society participated in a Pop-Up Gallery during Eagle’s First Friday in December, displaying and selling their considerable works of art.

Ann Durand shops at Fusions during their annual customer appreciation days.

(L-R) Maddie Connley, Jessica Woodhouse (of Finer Frames), and Mary Kuffel during Eagle’s First Friday in December.

Angela and Jeffrey Calhoun enjoyed Eagle’s First Friday painting at My Masterpiece.

Amy Hill, in town from Albuquerque, painted a miniature midnight snow scene at My Masterpiece.

Anne Watson-Sorensen was one of the featured artists at The Gallery at Finer Frames.

The juried show had a large selection of different art mediums from painting to sculptures.

Dan Costello and Nicole Christensen set a festive Christmas atmosphere in Wishing Well Botanicals.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

EAGLE’S NEXT FIRST FRIDAY is February 7

PAGE 10 • January 2014

EAGLE NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Eagle’s new K9 sniffs out drugs, steals kisses

By Philip A. Janquart She is 16-months-old, seems to always be smiling and will steal your heart the moment she makes eye contact with you.

Al, the Eagle Police Department’s new drugsniffing dog, has all the personality one might expect from a yellow Labrador.

“If you let her, she’ll lick you and lick you,” said Ada County Sheriff’s Deputy Brian Richardson.

A seven-year veteran with the Ada County Sheriff’s Department, Richardson waited for the opportunity to become a K9 handler. He got a little closer about a year ago when he transferred to Eagle to work under contract with the City of Eagle’s police department.

At that time, Eagle did not have its own, dedicated drug dog.

“When Chief (Steve) Bartlett became the new Eagle Chief of Police, I sat down and started putting together a proposal, detailing the reasons why we needed a K9,” Richardson said.

It wasn’t hard to convince Bartlett who said the dog is a valuable tool to have.

Al was paid for by the Boise Exchange Club, a local service organization that volunteers time to, and raises money for, various charities.

In exchange for the donation, the organization asked to name the new drug dog. “She was named after the late Allen Derr, who was an attorney and an advocate for women’s rights back in the 1970’s,” Richardson explained. “He was a member of the Boise Exchange Club.

Naming the dog after Al is their way of acknowledging what he did for the community, the impact he had.”

Richardson said Al, who is sometimes called “Allie,” is the fourth service dog the Boise Exchange Club has helped fund.

Bartlett said the only other costs associated with the dog’s purchase is overtime pay and equipment costs, which have been paid for by the Ada County Sheriff’s Office. Federal statute, he says, requires K9 dog handlers to be paid for 30 minutes of overtime per day in exchange for caring for the dog.

“That’s one of the benefits of contracting with Ada County for police services,” he said.

“Eagle lists it under ‘shared service credit’ in its budget.”

Does Eagle need a drug dog?

“We have a number of major highways that run directly through our city and Eagle works with the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) and

Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity. ~ John F. Kennedy

different drugs, and the way it works is similar to Pavlov’s theory; he trained a dog so that every time he rang a bell, the dog would salivate,” Richardson said. “With Al, we introduce an odor to her and when she identifies that odor, we reward her with her ball. She knows when she finds the odor, she gets her ball and she gets to play.”

Richardson said a dog’s nose is so powerful it can detect individual ingredients in food. “A dog’s nose is just incredible,” he said. “Where we might smell a pizza, they smell tomatoes, oregano, cheese etc. Many people, who have drugs, try to mask the smell by using perfume, or other things. I might not be able to smell it, but the dog is able to differentiate between the various smells that are present.”

Like many young dogs, Al is energetic, likes attention and loves to please, but gets serious when its time to sniff.

“She has a great demeanor, but she really Eagle Police Department K9 Handler wants to work” Richardson said. “She likes the Brian Richardson and Al hunt and I can tell by her body language when she has found something. Every dog’s response is different. When she’s hunting, Al won’t wag her tail until she finds the odor. When she the Ada County Drug Task Force on a regular finds it, she wags her tail and that’s when I basis,” Bartlett said. “We have seen a drastic know she has found a drug.” up-kick in our calls for service for drug calls at Knowing the law our high school and at Eagle Academy, and Richardson said part of his training is knoweven at our middle schools, so the dog is a ing when he can use Al’s nose for a search and huge benefit to the department.” when he can’t. As for her accuracy, state law reHaving a drug dog also cuts down on manquires the dog to score 100 percent on its power because dogs can search 10 times faster P.O.S.T. test. than a human can. The other benefit is rooted “The state requires 160 hours with a certified in public relations.

“We do a lot of drug talks for prevention and trainer, so once we get those hours under our belt, we can go attempt to certify,” he said. we use the dog in a lot of our elementary “She has to find all the drugs they put out for schools and community events to promote a her to find, and she can’t tell me there are drug free environment in our city,” Bartlett drugs present, when they are not – that’s an said. “It’s an excellent resource for kids to apautomatic fail.” proach a police officer, to have a conversation In that case, Richardson and Al would go about crime and drug prevention where they through further training. might not otherwise make that contact.”

So far, Richardson says the job is everything Still more training ahead Al, however, is not yet fully trained. Neither he had hoped it would be. “I’m definitely happy doing what I’m doing,” he said. “I get to is Richardson, for that matter. The two have been together over two months and train every take her home and my two young boys love her, but if my career changes or something hapday. They have another month or so before they are tested at the Idaho Peace Officer Stan- pens, another handler would take over with dards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Academy in Merid- her, but I would prefer to stay with her until she retires.” ian.

Richardson noted Al is expected to serve for Al will be tested for her ability to sniff out drugs like heroine, cocaine, methamphetamine about nine years. and marijuana. “She is being trained to smell

TRINA’S

FITNESS CORNER GLUTEN

Gluten is a protein composite that appears in foods processed from wheat, other grains and flour. It gives elasticity to dough, helping it to rise and to keep its shape, and often giving the final product a chewy texture.

I have found through extensive scientific research, that evidence shows gluten destroys Leptin and thus triggers insulin signaling.

Leptin is your starvation hormone. Leptin tells your brain that you have enough energy stored in your fat cells to engage your metabolic processes. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps the body use sugar for energy.

The Bottom Line: when we over-eat gluten (processed carbohydrates) we store an excess of fat; which leads to obesity, diabetes, highblood pressure, high stress, and many other diseases and aliments.

According to the American Heart Association a moderate amount of protein, low fat,

and high carbohydrates are standard. The daily food intake recommendation is 8oz of salmon, 10 slices of bread, peanut butter, milk, and a glass of fruit juice. All this equaling 2,000 calories, of which carbohydrates is 300 grams, protein is 160 grams, and fat is 27 grams.

If we remove the bread and replace with vegetables and fruit our new daily food intake might be: Four Eggs, 6oz cantaloupe, 2 Sausages, 5 cups of greens, 13 oz of beef, nuts and fish oils. All this equaling 2,000 calories, of which carbohydrates is 67 grams, protein is 160 grams, and fat is 120 grams.

You can see there are extremely high amounts of gluten in the standard American Diet.

“But I like breads and pasta!” “What about whole grains? Brown rice? Fiber?” “The media says it is good for me.” In my honest opinion, and through yet more research, if you really want to lose that spare tire, be healthier, look and perform better, you need to cut back…way back on the gluten. Take thirty days; eat all the lean meats, fruit, and veggies you like and let me know how you feel. I’d love to hear your story.

Trina K Kubitschek, Certified Personal Trainer. Owner of CrossFit Station.

A proud mom of Kayla, Kasson, Violet, and Evelyn. Trina has more than 12 years experience and she has a drive in helping individuals find and succeed in their fitness goals. Visit Trina’s face book page or follow her at http://crossfitstar.com/category/trainers-blog/trinas-blog/

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

EAGLE NEWS

January 2014 • PAGE 11

Eagle’s Country Christmas recap Festivities began at 11:00 a.m. and finished at 5:05 p.m. with a few words from Mayor Reynolds, Mayor of Eagle, and the official tree lighting ceremony. Throughout the day families could enjoy a visit with Santa, free children’s activity booths, the opportunity to help out the Eagle Food Bank as well as other charities like Coats for Kids and the Mayor’s Youth in Action Committee.

Propane heaters and a roaring bon fire helped keep the chill at bay, along with cups of warm hot cocoa and s’mores. Christmas music and performances by local youth kept the day bright and cheerful.

The Eagle Chamber of Commerce’s wreath auction garnered a plethora of wreathes to bid on, and lucky winners got to take their wreathes home with them that day.

Thanks to all the business that participated and congratulations to the winners.

A huge thanks to the Eagle When the performers left the stage, Chamber of Commerce and Eagle a few impromptu performers Arts Commission for another great couldn’t help taking to the gazebo.

Eagle Country Christmas and thank you to all those who volunteered and participated throughout the cold day to keep this Christmas tradition alive and well.

By Jennifer Anderson The crisp cold air didn’t keep holiday shoppers inside during Eagle’s Country Christmas, held Saturday, December 14, 2014 in downtown Eagle. With the Saturday market open, live music, and firefighters out signing their annual calendar raising money for their burnout fund it was a great place to be.

Mayor Reynolds took time to speak about the Christmas season before lighting the tree.

The lineup of silent auction wreathes donated by area businesses was impressive. Thanks to all those who participated.

Carrie Hunt with the Eagle Chamber of Commerce took a moment to thank all the participants and the community for supporting this year’s Country Christmas.

The bonfire, hot chocolate, and s’mores kept the chill at bay for those braving the clear cold day to enjoy the Christmas festivities in downtown Eagle during Eagle’s Country Christmas.

What’s happening in Eagle and Star?

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The Eagle Library held a Red Cross Blood Drive, December 7 and to commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor (December 7, 1941) the Eagle Library staff dressed up for the occasion, one young lady even sporting an authentic to the era Red Cross dress.

The Red Cross is always in need of blood, please give the gift of life and donate.

Call your local Red Cross and set up an appointment today.

PAGE 12 • January 2014

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com V<>L:”“RX

Urban Farm Girl

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TREADMILLS

2nd Annual Star Community Play

By Kim Ingraham Star Elementary’s new red velvet curtains were drawn to reveal a beautifully adorned Christmas tree and our amazing local talent.

The timeless tale of the “Nutcracker”, adapted by Patrick Rainville Dorn, was brought to life under the leadership of Director Sarah Dawson on Friday, December 13th. Her cast was made up of 13 children between the ages of 8 and 11, and 2 adults (herself included) - all from Star.

Lindsey Hammons as the Toy Soldier/Mouse Guard and Katelyn Hammons as Mistress Clara.

Their rendition of the play reminded us of the childhood magic that exists this time of the year. The talented cast combined to sing 6 musical numbers that wowed the audience of just over 100. E.M.S. student Katie Plaisted, playing Aunt Chelsa, sang “The Nutcracker Lament” and performed the piano piece "Battle of the Mouse King."

Star Outreach wishes to thank all those that donated food for admittance. It will surely help a local family in need this holiday.

The play was part of a weeklong Christmas Extravaganza in the city that included a tree lighting, bazaar, live music and other events organized by the Chamber of Commerce.

The strong sense of community was felt this entire week.

Thanks go to Sarah Dawson, our great actors and their supportive parents, Star Rec, Star Elementary, Star Friends Church, Lifespring Church, and Mike Lee. Look for more great happenings in 2014!!

Be Well!

Ella Wise has her make up done by Jenna Jones – Makeup artist.

The Pollock brothers: Caleb as The Nutcracker and Wade as the Mouse King/ Mouse Guard

The entire cast of the "Nutcracker"

Kate Plaisted played Aunt Chelsa and is featured in the article.

By Joanne M.W. Love It’s January and here I go again……making a list of resolutions: things I’ll do better, do differently, or even do at all in the upcoming year. Or not. Sometimes I feel tired at the very thought of this looming, list-making task.

To lighten the mood, I could instantly name a few pertinent resolutions, not your standard goals, but definitely relevant to my life: 1) be WAY more careful launching bales of hay from the top of the stack when the lawnmower is parked nearby (the lawnmower lost), 2) when severely sleep deprived (for example, after 5 days at the Western Idaho Fair), do NOT attempt to park the horse trailer (the side of the barn lost).

Inevitably, January finds me on a treadmill in our basement, somewhere between a fast walk and slow run. Attempts to distract myself from obsessing on the digital display seem futile. I stare at the numbers that monitor my speed, my incline, and the seconds left until I can end this drudgery (I’m really more of an outdoor kind of gal). Then it dawns on me, maybe it’s not the physical treadmill I’m resenting. Could it be the symbolism of the treadmill in life that I’m resenting as the New Year starts? Or maybe I’m just sniffing too many cow pies.

I don’t think there’s any escape from life treadmills for anyone. We all go to work every day, drive kids to activities every day, fold the same laundry every day, and load the same dishes every day. Even the kids have their own personal version of treadmills. They go to school every day, sports practice, music, dance, and 4-H meetings every week, etc.

As with so many things in life, the reward is rarely obvious and frequently delayed for these life treadmill routines. It’s easy for routines to seem mundane and feel like they have no value. We still have a horse walking on an underwater treadmill every day in New Plymouth……how must SHE feel? What could possibly be running through her mind as she walks on a treadmill to nowhere for 20 minutes? After watching her therapy sessions last month, I realized that the negative association we have with life treadmills results

from the lack of value we tend to place on them.

So, I ponder, as sweat is dripping down my neck and the digital time reading seems to be moving backwards. When you get right down to it, incredible value should be placed on life treadmills. They’re the bread and butter of our lives. They can lend stability, promoting commitment and personal responsibility.

Without them, there’s little separation between what defines the exciting and joyous moments in our lives from routine.

What if we found new resolve in living “in the moment” of our treadmill routines and recognized the greater value in them. I’m constantly reminding my kids how small, seemingly insignificant actions can affect someone’s life in a very significant way. Take the horse treadmill, for instance……the gentlemen running this rehab facility probably face little variation in their daily routines with the horses. But what an effect they produce on someone else’s life (or a horses life) just by going to work every day. In the past, horses with injuries like Cheyenne’s, would be put down or given lifetime “pasture ornament” status. Thanks to their treadmill (figuratively & literally), Cheyenne will be running through our green pasture next fall and provide us with mountain ride memories for years to come.

Watching our horse walk backwards into a pool of water and dutifully rise to the task at hand made me think. If a horse can do it, why can’t I? This year I’m resolving to be more mindful of the value in my treadmill moments. Maybe I’ll get a little crazy and even embrace them. Perhaps those counters I’m repeatedly wiping down will be great catalysts for treasured kitchen conversations.

Maybe my kids will grow up with good memories of the sight and scent of their freshly washed and folded laundry. Maybe I’ll get on that treadmill in the basement more often and inspire my daughter, through example, to take care of herself when she’s a mother.

Maybe I’ll cook more……..or maybe pigs will fly. Wait a minute, that would bring in a LOT more money for their pigs at the Fair!

Idaho Regional Ballet receives surprise visit by Miss T.E.E.N. United States Idaho Regional Ballet, busy with The Nutcracker rehearsals, received a surprise visit by Miss T.E.E.N. United States, Ashley Southern.

Miss Southern represented Idaho for the Miss T.E.E.N. United States pageant last June in Houston, Texas, and won the national title. (T.E.E.N. = Teens Exemplifying Excellence Nationally) Miss Southern is an alumni of Idaho Regional Ballet and danced in The Nutcracker last season in Snowflakes, Flowers, and the Spanish lead dancer. She was swept into the moment as she watched her friends dance away to the music.

This year’s audience was treated to exceptional performances by Leta Biasucci and Benjamin Griffiths as the Sugarplum Fairy and the Cavalier, courtesy of Pacific Northwest Ballet, along with a cast of 100 IRB and EPAC dancers. Staged by Lisa Moon and performed at the BSU Special Events Center, the “Nutcracker” is a holiday classic.

Idaho Regional Ballet performed “The Nutcracker” on Friday, December 20th at 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, December 21st at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. For more information about Idaho Regional Ballet call 208.338.4633 or email info@idahoregionalballet.com.

COMMUNITY Second Annual Live Nativity in Star

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

By Jennifer Anderson Saturday, December 14, 2014 local churches in Star joined together to bring the community the second annual live nativity at the Friend’s Community Barn.

A quiet donkey and mooing cow welcomed families and individuals to hear the choir, made up of Latter-day Saint members from the Star area and Mormon missionaries, singing carols and reading the Christmas story from the New Testament.

John Fulmer, a member of the Church of Jesus

The live nativity in Star brought several churches in the area together to participate in what some hope will continue to be an ongoing Star tradition.

This was the Hendricks family’s second year to attend the nativity and they were among the first to arrive, getting some of the best seats in the house.

Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), was instrumental last year in reaching out to other churches in the Star area to bring the live nativity to fruition. The short program continually cycled through between the hours of 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. and participants were also treated to cookies and hot chocolate. Last year Fulmer estimates they had between 400-500 people pass through during the two hour span and they ran out of cookies. This year they were better prepared.

Fulmer hopes it can continue to grow and believes it is a great way to bring the community together to celebrate the Christmas season and remember the birth of Jesus Christ.

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January 2014 • PAGE 13

PAGE 14 • January 2014

STAR NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

A recap of Star’s Christmas Extravaganza

Betty Smith and Judy Tomkinson sold raffle tickets for the quilt they will give away during next year’s Star Quilt Show. The Star Quilt Show continues to grow and Betty, Judy and others are already hard at work preparing for next year’s show.

The Star Senior Center was filled wall to wall with vendor booths, and music filled the air keeping the day fun and festive.

By Tammy Sullivan-Watson What a GREAT event. We could not have asked for better participation by everyone invited. So many people came together to brave the weather and its inherent discomfort to give the Star Community an event to be proud of...thank you, thank you!

While all of our Chamber members and Star charity participants are winners, following is a list of specific event winners: Booth Winners Best Dressed Booth: Rose McKee, of Star Touch Therapy, Star, ID. Rose won a basket valued at $300 filled with contributions from the bazaar vendors Two winners tied for the free Vendor Booths for the 2014 Christmas Extravaganza and Bazaar! Holly Bartlett, Mary Kay & Wendy Garcia, Bee Licious Honey Vendor!

Congrats, customers loved your table/booth decorations!

Celebration of Stars, Star Light Decoration Contest Winners: First Place award $250: Idaho Independent Bank Second Place award $125: HonaLee Farms Third Place award $75: Salon & Company Thank you to all of the businesses that participated. Please continue to support your city by making our business district shine, making it an inviting place for our community and those passing through to shop and enjoy!

Volunteers The ongoing work by local charities and their wonderful volunteers are a huge asset to our community and their participation in the Christmas celebrations was no different.

Star Outreach, Star Senior Center, Life Spring Christian Church, and the Star Lion's Club’s participation was so crucial and shows how big a heart this city has for its own! Your efforts were noticed, and we expect to give back and often.

Performers Thank you to the kids and parents of the following schools/organizations/businesses that performed!

Star Elementary: tree lighting serenade with Mr. Lewis Taggart, Music Director. We very much appreciate your tenacity and your willingness to play in the bitter cold of December and bring light and warmth to our event this year. There were many proud parents and many happy youngsters at this event.

We hope you will continue to grow your musical program and continue to grace our event with the young voices and talent in future Star Christmas Extravaganza Tree Lighting ceremonies and more!

Eagle Middle School: Choir - sister's duet, directed by Kendra Hughes of EMS. These singers were delightful with young, budding voices that will ring for years to come.

Thank you for sharing this fantastic part of the well-loved musical with our Star Community! We hope to hear more from you in the future.

Eagle Middle School Orchestra: led by EMS Orchestra Director, Brittany Brown, the

String Ensemble performed several Christmas selections to delight the ear. The impressive group of musicians still has many years of growth and continued success ahead especially with wonderful mentors. Come back and play for us anytime!

Eagle High School Jazz Band Quintet: Brass Quintet with Star's Trumpet players: Jack Gardner (pro), Austyn Sullivan Watson (student), and Abby Steensen & Kerri Starr (of Eagle); also playing his Saxaphone and conducting the group: T.J. Eriksen, Director of Bands at Eagle High School. This is the third year this band has committed to our program. It’s great to see upcoming student musicians playing with professionals and holding their own. The bazaar wouldn't be the same without them. They literally jazzed up the event! Return next year to serenade us again in the warmth of our Community Center.

Durf Barber Shop Quartet: directed by Dave Durfee, the quartet also included his two sons and a grandson. It was their 3rd performance for the Christmas Extravaganza out of 5 years. We appreciate their beautiful voices and their loyalty to our event!!! What a fun bunch of singers. Everyone asks if you will return each year and so far, you have never let us down!

Jeannie Nail and her line up of great musicians: JT Tyler & Smooth Avenue, Tasty Jamm and Johnny Downing, and her own Christmas twist on Karaoke... it was the focal point in the Star Senior Center and the talk of the town. The live music was perfect for encouraging us to remember the season and helping us enjoy shopping our wonderful local vendors. We look forward to the years to come.

Santa Claus... This time of year it's such a tough time to take away from the toy shop.

John Kemp, you were awesome as Santa's guide and thank you so much for your time.

Please consider continuing the tradition for years to come. The kids loved Santa...many thanks!!!

City of Star Thanks to Kim Ingraham who put on a wonderful play that not only helped garner food for the Star Outreach Food bank, but gave us some wholesome family entertainment. Our community is made better by he plays and events that give our youth the ability perform and participate close to home.

Without Kim and her ability to get the right people involved the Star Parks and Rec Program wouldn’t be what it is today.

Finally, thank you to KOOL Oldies radio station and Burt West, Star Fire Dept., city servant's Gary Smith and Tom Erlebach from the Star City Council, Star City Hall; Star Senior Center; Bazaar vendors and participating Chamber Businesses for all you do. Next year we plan to have our Community Center for our main events and use City Hall for city events.

From your Star Chamber of Commerce, board of directors, volunteers and businesses: have a happy and prosperous New Year!!!

Carolers from Star Elementary led the crowd, beginning with the classic: Rudolf the Red Nosed Raindeer.

Star City Councilman Tom Erlebach presided at Star’s City Hall Tree lighting and Brooke Anderson was chosen from the crowd to do the honor of lighting the tree.

Ladies from the Star Lions Club offered hot chocolate with whip cream to cold carolers waiting for the tree lighting ceremony to begin.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

CITY OF STAR

Star Senior Center

STAR LIBRARY - January Events Mondays: 1/6, 1/13, 1/27 Preschool Play and Learn Story time (ages 3–5) at 10:30 a.m.

Kindle Art for teens (ages 12 and up) 4-6 p.m., with Holly Hudson - a time to imagine, create and socialize.

Tuesdays: 1/7, 1/14, 1/21, 1/28 Star Quilters Alternate Tuesdays of each month, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Open to anyone interested – 1/7, 1/21 Make It Challenge (ages 8-12) 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Pulleys and gears and things that go!

Wednesdays: 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29 Star Knitters Each Wednesday morning, 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Open to anyone interested.

After-School Adventures (grades 1~6) 4 p.m. Join us for snow fun and crafts!

Thursdays: 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30 Babies and Music (ages 0-3) 10:30 a.m. - Stories, songs and fingerplays for babies and a parent.

Teen Make It program (ages 12 and up) 4 p.m. – 1/9, 1/23, 1/30 Pizza and Books for teens (ages 12 and up) 4 p.m. – you bring a book you have read and we provide the pizza – 1/16 Saturdays 1/11 “Beyond the Book” discussion (adults) 10 a.m. We are reading “Time and Again”,

by Jack Finney. Pick up January’s selection and join us for a spirited discussion.

1/25 Silver Anniversary Open House 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. – Come celebrate with your library! Enjoy refreshments and check out what’s new after 25 years of innovation, including Rokus, E-books, and Make It projects for youth and teens.

Fun with Math and Science at 1 p.m. – hands on stations for math and science play for parents and their preschoolers.

Take home a free book and a flashdrive with math/science activities loaded on it.

Please call ahead to sign up. *Preschools and daycares are welcome to call the library to schedule a story time visit!

Just call 286-9755.

The Star Branch Library will be closed on Monday, January 20th for Human Rights Day.

For more information on any program, please call Star Branch Library 286-9755

Star Parks and Recreation We, the City of Star Parks and Recreation committee, are dedicated to providing and preserving the highest quality of parks and services for as many citizens as possible with the resources available.

Free Fit and Fall PreventionTM (Join anytime!)

Sponsored by Central District Health Star City Hall (10769 W. State St) 10:30 - 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays & Fridays Call Kim for more details 286-7247.

Needlepoint Classes (No experience needed) Taught by Dyan Kastner.

Projects will be provided by request.

Wednesdays, January 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 4:30-6:00 p.m. Star City Hall $5.00/class.

Yoga (All abilities) Mondays & Wednesdays in January & February.

9:00 -9:45 a.m. at Star City Hall. $25/ month: mat required. Attend weekly to keep holiday stress at bay!

Youth Basketball sign ups (ages 5-11) January 20 - March 13 (practices begin Jan 6th) Games and practices weeknights at Star Elementary. $20 residents $25 non-residents. Sign up by December 6th to avoid a late fee.

U of I Master Gardener Class (adults) January 30 at 6:30 p.m., Star City Hall.

Taught by the renowned Susan Bell Thursday Topic discussed will be pruning trees and bushes for the new year.

Rifle Hunter Safety Class (ages 9 and up) 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at Star City Hall. $8.00.

New Year classes will be announced on the website below. There will be a Saturday field day near Firebird Raceway required as well.

Register at www.fishandgame.idaho.gov Family Movie Nights TBA. Held at Star Elementary 6:00 p.m.

Bring comfortable blankets to sit on.

Popcorn and snacks will be for sale.

Wellness Classes Jan 16th from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

January’s class is New Year, New You; A girl’s night out. Get a makeover of body mind and spirit. Sign up by calling 286-7247.

Bogus Basin Day Trips Saturdays and Sundays 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Bus will pick up at Star Mercantile and leave Bogus @ 5:00 p.m. $13 Transportation Only.

HELP NEEDED Contact Ron Weston at rweston@staridaho.org or 286-7247, if you want to help out or have ideas regarding local youth sports in the community, we would love your input.

Basketball referees 13 and up are needed as well.

Be our friend on Facebook for the latest changes and happenings!

Or, if you have ideas for new programs we would love to hear from you!!

For current Star Parks and Recreation activites, information, and registration visit http://staridaho.org/parks/activities.php, call 286-7247, or visit City Hall.

City of Star Meetings

Star City Hall 10769 W State Street • 286-7247 • www.staridaho.org

Star City Council Meetings 1st and 3rd Tuesday • 7:00 pm • Star City Hall

Star Outreach Neighbors Helping Neighbors Star Outreach- Neighbors Helping Neighbors is a Public Charity under Internal Revenue section 501 (c) (3)

www.staroutreachonline.com

January 2014 • PAGE 15

102 S. Main Street, 286-7943

Center's Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.

Regular Weekly Activities: • Dominoes and pool before lunch each Wednesday and Friday.

• Bingo after lunch each Wednesday and Friday.

• Pinochle each Friday at 7 p.m.

• Books, books on tape, VCR movies, and cassette tapes are available in the office.

• Bus is available for pick up if you need a ride to the Senior Center (286-7943).

• Lunch and bus rides are on a donation basis.

January Calendar of Events HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

HOLIDAY: NO MEETING THIS MONTH for General Meeting & Educational Jan. 16th – OUT TO LUNCH 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.: The Asian Wok in Toon Town (Estrella Plaza) Jan. 16th - Ribbon Cutting – New Business Members: to be announced at lunch Jan. 31st - OFFICER INSTALLATION TICKETS ON SALE Dec. 16 to Jan. 27th. Tickets available online at: http://staridahochamber.com/events/chamber-banquet/ or @ Idaho Independent Bank and Clearly Natural Skin Shop (on the corners SE & NE of Hwy 44/Star Roads).

Officer Installation Dinner: Honalee Farms Banquet facility on Moon Valley Road see flyer at http://staridahochamber.com/events/chamber-banquet/: $35/ticket or $65/couple to attend. There will be live music by Smooth Avenue; food catered by Sully’s; dancing; networking; no host bar by HonaLee Farms; roasting of the outgoing directors and the welcoming of the new directors.

There will be raffles & a silent auction!

Businesses may offer Auction and Raffle items.

For more information contact Tammy - President@StarIdahoChamber.com WANT AN OPEN HOUSE EVENT? Send info to the Chamber no later than January 10th…for February inclusion into the newspaper. Let the Chamber advertise your Special Event!

Contact Tammy for more info: President@StarIdahoChamber.com For additional information on upcoming chamber events, please The Independent News visit www.StarIdahoChamber.com.

Samurai - Puzzle 1 of 5 - Medium

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www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Read City Council Meeting minutes at www.staridaho.org/ departments/cityclerk.php

Food currently needed: Soup • Canned vegetables • Chili • Dry pasta Mac & cheese • Toilet paper • Soap Do you need help, or know someone that does?

Contact Christina at 919-1100.

Like us on Facebook

Thank you to the community of Star for their generous donations and support of Star Outreach and those who were in need this holiday season. Food donations were greatly appreciated and we helped more families through the “Adopt-a-Family” program for Christmas than ever.

The task to feed and provide for so many families seemed truly daunting, but once again the community stepped in, donated generously, and many families were blessed with a wonderful Christmas.

PAGE 16 • January 2014

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

January events To view our current, updated calendar or for event submission information please visit our website at www.theindnews.com.

Library calendars, Eagle and Star city meetings, and Chamber of Commerce information can be found listed separately throughout the newspaper (Other events are Eagle, pg. 6; and Star, pg 15) and on the online calendar at

www.theindnews.com CLUBS Kiwanis Club of Eagle 1st and 3rd Mondays from 12:00 - 1:00 pm, MickeyRays Barbeque, 395 W. State St., Eagle. Join us in making a positive impact on kids in our community.

Contact Pete Dover: 866-2195, pdover@amfam.com, www.eaglekiwanis.org.

Eagle Lions Club 1st and 3rd Wednesday at12:00 p.m.

Casa Mexico, Eagle Contact: 724-9537 Star Lions Club 2nd Monday at 6:30 pm 4th Monday at noon Both at El Mariachi Loco starlions.org MOMS Club of Eagle Meeting: last Monday of the month 10:30 am, Eagle Church of the Nazarene. 1001 W. State. St MOMS Club of Star Last Monday of the month 10:30 am: Star Friends Community Church (not affiliated).

Corner of 3rd and Star Road.

A support group for stay-at-home moms and informal play group for kids

American Legion Post 127 & Auxiliary of Eagle Meets 2nd Tuesday at Eagle Sewer District. 44 N. Palmetto Ave. Eagle Meetings start at 7:00 pm.

All current and former military veterans are invited to join.

Treasure Valley Rug Hookers Meetings: 1st & 3rd Saturdays 12-4 pm at Maui Wowie in Meridian Contact: Helen Code 871-3343 or venuscode@msn.com Eagle Toastmasters Meet Wednesdays at 8 to 9am Foothills Christian Church, 9655 W. State St., Garden City.

Anyone who is interested in developing their speaking and leadership skills.

Eagle Optimist Club Monthly Meetings: 4th Tuesday of every month, 12-1pm at Smoky Mountain Pizza, 127 East State Street Seeking new members to help kids in our community www.eagleoptimistclub.org Contact Myrna Harris at (208) 484-8530 The Camera Club of Eagle Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesday/monthly 7:00 pm at Eagle City Hall Visitors are always welcome Club dues are $25/year DFW "Dining for women" West Treasure Valley Chapter 3rd Monday of each month, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm or 6:30 - 8:00 pm (alternates each month) DFW is a national organization meeting monthly for a potluck to discuss the featured charity of the month and donating the monies saved from a lunch out to that month’s charity.

Make new friends and a difference in the world, join DFW Contact Terri Manning at 208-861-5486 for details.

The Independent News can be found at these and other locations: Star: • Star Library • Star Merc • Star Café Eagle: • Albertsons-Eagle • Big O • Eagle Barber Shop • Eagle City Hall • Eagle Post Office • Eagle Chamber of Commerce • Les Schwab • Perks of Life • Rembrandts • St Als-Eagle • St Lukes-Eagle • Stinker Station – Hwy 55 • The Griddle • Wild West • Winco-Eagle • Zen Bento West Boise: • Stinker Station - State St Middleton: • Ridley’s • Sunrise Café • The Cottages Garden City: • Maverik • The Cottages If you would like us to add your business to our distribution list, please call 550-3111 or email us at theindnews.story@gmail.com

Food Donations Needed Eagle Foodbank

Distribution Days are the first and third Thursday of every month from 10am-12pm and the last Tuesday from 6-7 pm.

149 W. State St, Eagle, in the rear of the Customedica Pharmacy building.

Donations of non-perishable food items may be dropped off at donation bins . located in the Eagle Main Fire Station, the Eagle Public Library and in Albertsons.

The Eagle Foodbank is also open most Fridays from 4-6pm to receive non-perishable donations.

Donations may be mailed to: Eagle Foodbank, PO Box 1081,Eagle, ID 83616.

Hope Lutheran Food Bank

Open Monday - Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

After-hours by appointment.

939-9181,office@hopeeagle.org www.hopeeagle.com.

CLASSIFIED For Sale Pfaff hobbylock surger $350/layway. Patterns $3.

Variety of quality fabric remnants.

Wool, silk, fleece, etc.

Star ID 208-286-9821

uCr itic.......... Tom Wick, Universal Critic

It’s been twelve years since Peter Jackson brought The Lord of The Rings and Middle Earth sagas to the silver screen and what would another year be like without all that yelling and clanging and alliances between people who really don’t like each other? But that’s why there is evil in the world, so that the good people who hate each other can form allegiances! Yay for evil. And that pretty much sums up the last dozen years of all that clanging and battling and this year’s The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is no different, and if you think that’s a long title, it’s actually the third longest of the six movies. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King was the longest title.

Why does that matter? It doesn’t.

It’s like Gandalf, the Grey Wizard, who can do some parlor tricks with his staff, which if he blows into, it lights up and creates a force field, but that doesn’t matter either because he still gets caught. Oh yeah, and after Bilbo wakes up Smaug, the dragon who sounds like Khan from Star Trek: Wrath of Khan, and twenty minutes of chasing him around the dwarf fortress, none of that matters because Smaug decides to fly over to Lake-Town (it’s a town by a lake, and hey, it’s Middle Earth, shouldn’t it be Lake Towne?”) and…well, I can’t tell you because that’s where the movie ends, so stay tuned for December 2014!

But really, does any of it really matter? Because we’ve all seen the sequels. However, if you want to see some really cool special effects, go see The Desolation of Smaug on the big screen, otherwise, I’d recommend it on

BluRay/1080p.

For the end of the year, there really hasn’t been a lot of great movies for ten bucks, but a couple of movies you might want to catch in the cheap seats are All is Lost and Enough Said.

All is Lost stars Robert Redford. Literally.

He is the only character in the movie. It’s kind of like Gravity, except on a boat in the ocean. The acting is tremendous, the cinematography, the storyline, suspense, all awesome. But you may be thinking: Why didn’t it come to the theaters?

Because it has one of those stupid endings where you’re not sure if he made it or not.

Seriously, why do directors do this? We’re not in ninth grade anymore and we’re not studying short stories with the unknown ending.

Hey, listen, if I drop ten bucks on your movie and two hours of my time, give me a solid ending. Otherwise, before the ending… it was a good movie.

Enough Said stars Julia Louis-Dreyfus and James Gandolfini (who died before the release). Julia Louis-Dreyfus plays a divorced woman, a masseuse, void of morals. The only friend she has, not a nice person herself, takes Julia to a party where she meets a nice guy and a lady. Queue the misunderstandings and continued failed relationships. And, like All is Lost, you kind have to figure out the ending for yourself. Other than that, the acting was pretty good and there were a lot of funny parts. It’s worth a buck and quarter at Redbox, but invite a friend over and have them bring a treat so you get something for your buck in case you don’t like it.

Holiday Electronics Recycling Program Care for your landfill & recycle those old televisions and other electronics this holiday season!

(Boise, ID) – The Ada County Landfill is reminding residents to recycle their old electronics this holiday season, and we’re making it easier with an expanded electronics recycling program.

With all of the deals and gift giving of the holiday season, many people end up receiving new electronic gadgets such as televisions, computers, cameras, cell phones and more, to replace older outdated versions. Rather than letting old unused electronics sit around in your home or garage, they can be recycled for FREE at the Ada County Landfill!

Six days per week during normal business hours, the landfill accepts a wide array of electronic equipment for recycling. Anytime between 7AM-6PM Monday-Friday, and 8AM-6PM on Saturdays, Ada County residents can drop off unwanted electronics at the landfill, located at 10300 N. Seaman’s Gulch Road, for no charge. Customers with electronics to recycle can simply drive up to the landfill entrance scales, and let the attendant know they have recyclable electronics to drop off.

Not only does recycling allow these items to be repurposed into newer products, but many older electronics contain large amounts of hazardous chemicals such as lead (as much as 8 pounds in some cathode-ray tube (CRT) monitors), so recycling keeps those hazardous chemicals out of our landfill. Additionally, this saves the county money and creates additional revenue for the landfill, helping to keep landfill user fees down.

A full list of recyclable electronic items is available on the new and improved Ada County Landfill website athttp://www.adacountylandfill.com/.

For more information about this program, contact the Ada County Landfill at 577-4725.

If we could give every individual the right amount of nourishment and exercise, not too little and not too much, we would have found the safest way to health. ~ Hippocrates

Business Directory An affordable way to advertise your business or service!

A total of 15,000 distribution to Eagle and Star, with drops in N Meridian and W Boise - for only $40 a month!

Call 550-3111 or email theindnews.story@gmail.com

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

BUSINESS

A new look for classic salon

By Jennifer Anderson Stacy DuBois, owner of DuBois & Co. Salon, is on a mission to create a salon that is a “one stop shop.” Offering pedicures, manicures, hair-cuts, styling, hair color, weaves, and more the salon is ready to cater to your needs.

Recently undergoing a makeover itself, the shop has been redesigned to add a touch of elegance with crystal chandeliers and a ceiling decorated with metallic squares. A free coffee bar is available for customers and whether you are wanting a great new look, or just some friendly conversation the ladies at DuBois & Co. Salon are ready to help.

Regular hours are Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Evenings are available by appointment. DuBois & Co. Salon is located at 11152 State St. in Star, ID.

The staff at DuBois & Co. Salon, led by Stacy DuBois (Lft) are ready to make you over for the New Year.

Enjoy a free coffee bar with your visit.

Star Chamber of Commerce members gathered outside of DuBois & Co. Salon on November 21, 2014 for a ribbon cutting ceremony.

True Blue, a new concept in senior care peace of mind for seniors who are able to

By Jennifer Anderson still live in their own homes and on their Trent Martin of Eagle has recently own terms, but may need weekly or monthly launched a new concept business in senior assistance to maintain their homes, yards, care under the name of True Blue Senior and run every day errands.

Home services. Focusing on the four key The key is personalized service. Martin service areas of concierge, companionship, begins a regular visit with a quick forty point housekeeping, and handyman he is able to assessment of the senior’s home environprovide a wide array of services at a rate much less than that of regular service house ment including the home’s exterior features: sidewalks, steps, lighting, lawn, fencing and calls. more; and the home’s interior features: Studies have shown that there are curlighting, appliances, fixtures, rently 40 million seniors age latches, etc. . . The inspec65+ in America today, by the tion list is quickly checked year 2020 there will be 55 and notes made of things million - a 25% increase. that may need maintenance That number only continues or repair. He also visits with to increase over the next the client to find out what twenty years. As seniors aptheir concerns or needs are proach their golden years, and if they have specific many experience some basic things they would like fixed. fears including the loss of inAside from the housework dependence, declining or handyman duties that may health, diminishing fineed to be done, Martin also nances, inability to live at sets aside time to just talk home, death of their spouse Trent & Suzanne Martin with with each client, get to know or loved ones, inability to TRUE BLUE Senior them personally and let them manage their daily activities, Home Services know he cares. He has found not being able to drive, isolation or loneliness, strangers caring for them, that many clients just need a listening ear and the fear of falling or hurting themselves. and companionship.

Another major need True Blue addresses True Blue seeks to address many of these is that of a concierge. Whether it’s taking fears for seniors. the client to appointments or doing their Additionally, it helps ease the cares of shopping for them, the role of concierge can children who maybe too far away or physically unable to help their aging parents with be undervalued. Martin acts almost like a personal assistant, helping the client pay their many needs.

After working with many seniors over the bills, keep up with their correspondence, orlast few years, Martin (a financial planner by ganize their home, or help them keep track of calendaring and appointments. day) saw a mounting need in the senior Guaranteed, licensed, bonded, insured, community and began researching how he and locally owned and operated are just might make a difference. There are many some of the reasons seniors are putting their senior services available relating to healthtrust in Trent Martin and True Blue. Trent care, there are also individual services that and his wife Suzanne work together to make can be hired out such as housekeeping, sure their clients are comfortable and indetransportation, lawn care, and handyman pendent for as long as possible. Their services, but most come at a steep cost and client’s well-being is always their first prioreach one has their own hourly rate. Martin has, with the exception of healthcare, rolled ity followed by their environment.

If you would like to set up a free-consultamany of these services into one affordable tion with True Blue Senior Home Services, service.

Martin’s vision is to provide solutions and give Trent Martin a call at 208-890-8177.

January 2014 • PAGE 17

PAGE 18 • January 2014

PEOPLE

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

The Senior Corner Meet Betty Stadler

By Thérése Woozley Betty Stadler, a 1941 graduate of Boise Junior College, met her husband Ben at BJC. Married in 1943, they started their family of seven children after Ben returned from overseas during World War II. They settled in north Ada County to farm and ten years later, they opened Shadow Valley Golf Course. It was January 1987, when Betty’s youngest daughter, Carol was out on a date with her husband and a drunk driver smashed into their car. Carol Stadler Price died in the crash; her husband was critically injured. Two small girls were left without a mother.

Betty decided that the only way she could cope with her grief was to launch the Idaho

Chapter of MADD in Carol’s memory. So in February 1988, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Idaho was founded.

Betty worked diligently to establish MADD, traveling the state to tell her story to thousands of people. She worked with government and court officials to increase penalties for DUI offenders, lower the legal alcohol limit to .08, and personally supported the survivors and victims of drunk driving. As MADD Idaho celebrates its 25th Anniversary this past year, they continue to be inspired by her tireless spirit and dedication to Idaho families and victims of impaired driving. Betty will be 92 years old this February and the lives she’s touched throughout Idaho are countless.

Meet Andrew Coba

By Taylor Munson Have you heard of a local event called Boise’s Got Talent? If you have followed this contest at all, then you may already know that the winner of the competition a couple summers ago was a band called Coba. Only a few months after winning Boise’s Got Talent, this successful band also opened for a musician named Victor Wooten at the Knitting Factory. Current high school senior Andrew Coba was a key member of this musical group; however, his success in the Boise music scene does not end here.

Andrew was born in Caldwell and moved to Boise when he was five due to a new teaching job opportunity for his mother. He enjoys living in Boise feeling it has a lot to offer whether it is the outdoors, a wonderful downtown area, or simply a lovely place to be raised.

Andrew’s two sisters, currently fourteen and seven, do not share Andrew’s musical interests. The older sister enjoys roller derby and The Cranberries, while his youngest sibling likes to draw and dance. While Andrew played some sports from kindergarten to eighth grade, his true passion has always been music.

When he was in sixth grade, his parents suggested that he play a Wilson Pickett song for a piano recital. After this performance, he fell in love with performing and claims, “the rest is history.” In eighth grade, he visited a private arts school he had heard about called ArtsWest (now Fresco Arts Academy). He instantly realized how perfect the school was for him and has been attending ever since.

In regards to Andrew’s thoughts about Fresco, he has nothing but positive things to say about his experiences there. He declares it gives him the opportunity to pursue his passion for music in a supportive environment.

Fresco offers him more opportunities he might not receive at other schools such as traveling around the country with the school jazz choir, competing in world-renowned jazz competitions, and having master classes and being taught by amazing musicians. Overall,

Calling All PackerBacker BBQ Lovers

By Mickie Park Star resident Dave Schultz is the owner/operator of the famous PackerBacker BBQ. He has been catering and competing in BBQ tournaments since 2005.

His award winning team in 2005 took 3rd overall in Albany OR at the Western Regional BBQ Championship and 3rd overall at the Idaho State BBQ Championship. In 2006 the team scored a number of touchdowns, The Governors Award for Best BBQ in Idaho and

they were the Grand Champions at the Idaho State BBQ Championship which lead them to the biggest tournament of all, the Jack Daniels World Invitational BBQ in Lynchburg, TN. The PackerBacker Team placed 25th in ribs and pulled pork out of 77 teams.

Dave has been a true Packer fan from day one and in the spring as you drive through the City of Star you will see Dave’s Packer Flags, Packer Signs and his PackerBacker BBQ located on Highway 44.

The family owned company offers catering for groups ranging from 25 to 500 people. Their roster includes St. Louis Style Spare Ribs, Briskets, Tri-Tip, Pulled Pork, Rib Tips and PackerBacker Sandwiches. For a complete menu, awards, and some great photos please visit their website at www.packerbackerbbq.com .

For more information on this Super BBQ Team please feel free to call Dave at 401-6277.

he feels blessed to have gone to Fresco. The combination of an amazing faculty, supportive environment, and amazing musical opportunities has all contributed to growing Andrew’s passion for music.

Outside of school, the music scene in Boise is certainly familiar with Andrew’s name. He has played in the Holiday Extravaganza with Curtis Stigers, and some other benefit concerts with influential Boise musicians like Bill Coffey, Steve Fulton, and Emily Braden.

Andrew has been recognized several different times for his musical talents. Some of these achievements include being awarded Outstanding Vocalist at last year’s Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, placing as a top thirty finalist for the Grammy Band a couple years ago, and of course when his band won Boise’s Got Talent. Andrew also uses his talents and passion for music as a way to benefit his community. He has played many benefit concerts for the InterFaith Sanctuary and the Boise Contemporary Theater.

Just last year, he recorded an album and had the proceeds of its sales given to Interfaith Sanctuary. Another rewarding experience was when he played some music at the shelter last year. He has even incorporated community service into his senior project. The plan for his senior project is to record an album of eight to ten original songs and sell it to the public with the proceeds going to bikes for refugees. He is excited to have Curtis Stigers producing the album and overall be able create an album that will help a great cause.

Although he is excited about this undertaking, he does have a lot on his plate. Balancing music, homework, senior project, and college preparation is no simple task and can undoubtedly become overwhelming. However, Andrew states that the process is exciting and the prospect of moving into the real world motivates him to have all of it finished. His primary dream consists of traveling and playing music with people. According to Andrew, “there isn’t anything that sounds as good as that.”

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How to prepare for severe winter weather Our fair Boise weather often lulls us into a sense of false security that leads us to possibly be unprepared when the weather turns really bad. Following are a few basic tips that can help make the scariest weather seem a little less stressful: • Store bottled water and food that does not require cooking in case of a power outage. Some ideas are tuna, cereal, canned or dried fruit, crackers, nuts, and peanut butter and jelly. Remember to store things your family will eat.

• Have sand or rock salt to make driveways and sidewalks safer. Make sure your snow shovel or other snow removal equipment is easy to get to and in good working order.

• If you have a fireplace, make sure you have wood that is in a dry, easy to access location. If you have a gas grill, make sure you have a full propane tank. It may be possible to cook on your grill once the storm lets up. If you have a generator, make sure you have fuel and that it works properly. Only use a generator outdoors. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.

• Learn to shut off your water main and gas line in case there is a problem.

• Make a winter emergency kit for your car. Include: window scraper, small broom, flashlight, blanket, battery operated radio, snacks that provide energy, water, jumper cables, small shovel, sand or cat litter for tire traction, hat, gloves, extra socks, first aid kit and a piece of fluorescent fabric to use as a distress flag.

• If you have a baby or someone that requires medication, make sure you have plenty of those extra things you will need on hand.

During a storm, it is important to remain positive and use good judgment.

• Have a battery operated radio so you can listen to weather reports.

• Dress in layers of loose, lightweight warm clothing. Your coat should be somewhat water repellent. Wear mittens, they will keep your fingers warmer than gloves. Wear a hat and scarf. Use the scarf to cover your mouth. This will protect your lungs. KEEP DRY. Change wet clothes as quickly as possible to help keep from losing body heat.

• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow.

• Drive only when absolutely necessary.

• If your power is out, close off all unnecessary rooms and stay in one main area. Eat regularly and drink plenty of fluids.

• Don’t forget about your solar lawn lights. These can be left out during the day and brought in at night. Several together can give off a good amount of light.

• Have puzzles, games, books or any other light activities you can do while you are homebound.

Turn this in to an opportunity to relax or make it an adventure.

• As tempting as it is to snuggle down and sleep, it is important to move around occasionally. This will help you keep warm and keep you alert.

• Have plenty of blankets.

Hopefully, you will not experience a time when you will have to use what you have prepared, but in case you do, you will have much greater peace of mind. You may also want to consider putting something similar together for your college kids that are away from home or traveling to and from home during the winter season.

People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball.

I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring. ~ Rogers Hornsby

January 2014 • PAGE 19

PAGE 20 • January 2014

HEALTH

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