The Independent News April 2014

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

Volume 5 • Issue 4

In this issue:

Eagle’s Own Micro Car Page 7

www.theindnews.com

Industry icons honored at 2nd annual Fresco Gala Awards

By Philip A. Janquart BOISE – The 2nd annual Fresco Arts Academy Awards Gala was held at the Egyptian Theater March 6 in downtown Boise.

According to Fresco, the event serves as a “gala fundraiser … designed to honor Idahoans who have made great contributions to the arts.”

Receiving honors was musician Marcus Eaton, choreographer/dancer Marla Hansen, visual artist John Killmaster and celebrated actress Maureen O’Hara, who topped the evening by personally accepting the Lifetime Achievement award.

“I just want to say that if you have something in your mind that you want to do, then DO IT!” she said, moving the crowd to a standing ovation.

Earlier, Eaton joined Fresco students on stage for a song entitled “What’s the Difference,” and followed it up with an acoustic solo performance of his song “Fiona.”

“Marcus Eaton is a nationally touring independent musician from Idaho with an extensive catalog of original material,” according to reverbnation.com. “He is truly unique and

Maureen O' Hara with her grandson, Conor FitzSimons, and his family.

groundbreaking in his approach to songwriting and his guitar playing. Incorporating rock, funk, reggae,

flamenco, classical, jazz and folk into his songs, his mastery is recognized by fans and fellow musicians wherever he plays.”

Eaton has performed with Bob Dylan, Dave Matthews Band, Jason Mraz, Train Victor Wooten, John Mayer, Jewel, Counting Crows, Tim Reynolds and Sheryl Crow. He was recently featured on rollingstone.com where he talks about writing with David Crosby and James Raymond, and touring for Crosby’s upcoming solo album “Croz,” according to his website marcuseaton.com.

Hansen is an Associate Professor at Boise State University in the Department of Theatre Arts, directing the Dance Minor, the Dance Option bachelor’s degree and the Summer DanceFest. She regularly choreographs Boise State productions, is co-artistic director of Idaho Dance Theater, is “professional company in-residence” at Boise State and has choreographed over 60 ballets for the company, according to the university’s website. Fresco presented her with the Extraordinary Contribution to Dance Education Award.

Continued on page 8

Star Senior Center participates in GoRide Vehicle Sharing Program

Meet the Snake River Karters Page 9

By Mark Carnopis, Community Relations Manager for Valley Regional Transit By all accounts, the Star Senior Center bus, used to transport members, had become a major financial liability. Recently, the 2006 14-passenger Ford cutaway bus needed work done on its wheelchair lift, a tune-up, a new alternator, and almost $900 in repairs when dashboard electrical wiring caught fire.

“What we put out in repairs in the last three years was astronomical,” said Norma Dawson, president of Star Senior Citizens. Inc. “It has been a costly adventure. We have put so much money into the bus recently.”

But the senior center found financial relief through a new program operated by Valley Regional Transit (VRT). The GoRide Vehicle Sharing Program consists of a pool of vehicles that human service agencies and non-profit organizations in Ada and Canyon counties can use when needed. The pool of vehicles includes a variety of transportation options, including vehicles with wheelchair lifts.

VRT staff recently delivered a 2012 sevenpassenger Dodge Caravan to the center and will add the repaired cutaway bus to its vehicle sharing pool.

Norma Dawson, president of Star Senior Citizens, Inc., accepts keys to the 2012 Dodge Caravan the Star Senior Center will be using from David Pederson, Mobility Manager for Valley Regional Transit. The senior center’s old bus is located behind the van.

Dawson said she believes that by participating in the program, the senior center will cut its operating costs to provide transportation to its members. In addition to not having to pay repair bills, the van gets about 18 miles to the gallon compared to the bus getting about 10 miles per gallon of gas.

David Pederson, VRT Mobility Manager, said Star Senior Center staff heard about the GoRide Vehicle

Sharing Program and decided to contact him.

The Senior Center bus, which has only about 58,000 miles, will need about $1,000 in additional work before it is placed in the Vehicle Sharing pool.

“Star Senior Center is a good example of how sharing a vehicle can benefit the senior center, its constituents and the community as a whole,“ Pederson explained. “By sharing through VRT, the vehicle is always in top shape, safe and ready to roll; the senior center can then use their limited resources to benefit even more people in the community.”

Pederson explains that there are three levels of participation in the Vehicle Sharing Program.

The Star Senior Center is an Annual Donating Member, and under this membership level, an agency or non-profit donates a vehicle to the program. In exchange, VRT insures, maintains and performs all service work on the vehicle.

VRT becomes owner of the vehicle, but the donating agency does not give up the right to use the vehicle. The value of the vehicle is credited towards the cost of the donating member’s annual membership fee.

Continued on page 16

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

EHS Varsity Baseball Page 19

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID EAGLE, IDAHO PERMIT NO. 60

ECRWSS

POSTAL PATRON LOCAL

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community & benefit eVents eagle first friday, (E), pg 11 eagle saturday market, (E), pg 10 star chamber easter egg hunt, pg 14 mom’s Garage car show, pg 14 dental care star dental, (S), pg 4, Insert department store Kings, pg 18 dininG & entertainment el mariachi loco, pg 3 education little miracles preschool, pg 5 stepping stones children’s center, pg 19 financial institution eagle home mortgage, pg 17 idaho independent bank, (S), pg 13 framinG finer frames, (E), pg 11 frame works, (E), pg 8

health care st. al’s medical Group family medicine; dr.’s Goldberg & coate, pg 9 star medical, pg 14 state of mind counseling and wellness center, pg 4 health, wellness, fitness down to earth health foods, (S), pg 20 Keller skin care, (E), pg 17 silk touch medspa, (E), pg 12 home improVement all pro exterior, inc., pg 20 avalanche Glass & doors, pg 19 budget blinds, pg 9 cf construction, pg 4 landscapinG, irriGation eagle landscape, pg 10 eagle tree & shrub, (E), pg 19 star tree & shrub, pg 12 tree maintenance, pg 17

pool, spas, maintenance aqua pro spa & pool, pg 3 real estate lions Gate subdivision, pg 2 maggie price, century 21 realty, pg 5 the smack Group realty, Insert senior serVices the cottages, (E), pg 18 spas sanctuary spa, pg 3 Vision care eagle Vision one, (E), pg 7 business directory, pg 16 ada emissions carew property management handyman can hummingbird lawn & Garden equipment repair margo's cleaning star tires

PAGE 2 • April 2014

COMMUNITY

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

The Senior Corner

Meet Austin Biaggne, Eagle High School senior The stars are not the limit for Eagle High School senior Austin Biaggne who discovered in 8th grade that Astronomy was his passion.

Austin says, “I like the mystifying aspect of it, it’s all theoretical and crazy.” Austin loves Astronomy so much that he started an Astronomy Club at Eagle High with the help of his teachers that has grown to around 20 members, with 10 attending regularly.

He also plans to pursue Astronomy in college focusing on attending possibly the University of Idaho or Washington State University.

Preparing him for his future study of the stars, Austin was chosen to participate in a special online class through NASA during his junior year. The program was three months long, culminating with a collaborative project with other classmates. At the end of the three months, based on the grade received for the class, they chose students to spend a week on the Boise State University campus.

Austin says, “We stayed in the dorms on campus and we were put into four teams that worked together to plan a manned mission to Mars. My team was in charge of the working the part of the mission which included what to research and test and how to get around on the surface.”

Successful completion of the class also included a trip to San Jose to visit the NASA Ames research center for two days. At the end of the week they presented their mission

Austin Biaggne enjoyed his recent opportunity to assist during Science Nights at local schools. His favorite experience was running the big blow-up planetarium at Seven Oaks Elementary. to Mars to their parents, mentors, and other people from various organizations such as Micron and BSU areas of study. “It was one of the greatest experiences of my life and I will never forget the memories and friends that I made during that one week,” says Austin.

Austin also likes to help others experience science and space and recently participated in a couple of Science Nights at local schools.

One included a blow up planetarium during the Seven Oaks Science Night where children could go inside and experience the stars of the night sky.

While Astronomy holds much of his attention, Austin is also enjoying his senior year in other ways. Last year he was the Varsity Captain for the soccer team, a sport he has played since he was 4. He also participates in National Honor Society and their various service projects throughout the year, and works for his father cleaning buildings.

Austin credits his parents for helping him though rough spots and quotes his mother as saying, “Nothing bad lasts forever.”

COMMUNITY New program standardizes fire response procedures across Valley

April 2014 • PAGE 3

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

By Philip A. Janquart There was a time when fire departments in cities across the Treasure Valley balked at the idea of standardizing fire response procedures. Most departments held tightly to their own way of doing things.

Those days are quickly disappearing, however, thanks to a revolutionary training program that promises to make responding to home and commercial fires safer for both firefighters and citizens.

Eagle firefighters recently completed the Blue Card Command Certification Program, a state-of-the-art training and certification system that teaches company and command officers how to standardize local incident operations across their organizations.

“The training provides a common and consistent way of dealing with hurdles and challenges that come up,” said Eagle Fire Department Division Chief of Training Bill Stone.

Eagle Fire Capt. Jeff Krochmal discusses response strategies with Blue Card students.

The program consists of 50 hours of in-class training and 24 hours of simulation training involving responses to fires that are played out on computers.

“They are getting a lot of repetitions through what are called ‘Sims,’ or simulation training,” Stone explained. “If you look at the numerous computer screens in there, loaded on to those computers will be a house or business that is on fire. The proctors can control the amount of flames or smoke, or the situation they are seeing, which pushes the student to make decisions based on what he is seeing. By doing this, we are able to practice firefighting techniques without getting hurt or putting anyone in harms way.”

The idea is to create a standardized language to prevent confusion during a fire where multiple city departments have responded, which can save time and lives.

“What this program is doing is bringing all the departments together so that we are speaking the same language,” Stone said.

“When we do arrive on a scene, one company may call a particular component of the evolution one thing, and another company will call it something else, and there might be confusion. When you have gaps like that, that’s how people get hurt, because they assume they are talking about the same thing. It will make for a safer operation throughout the Valley if we get on the same page cognitively.”

The Blue Card Retired Phoenix, Ariz. Fire Chief Alan Brunacini, a highly respected figure in the fire industry, is the main architect of the program.

Considering his resume, Brunacini seems more than qualified to develop a program that appears well worth the time and effort.

He has served as fire chief of the Phoenix Fire Department and as the Chairman of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

Eagle Fire Capt. Rob Shoplock, left, and Driver/Engineer Cody Flores, right, make command decisions about a computer generated commercial building fire.

1710 Technical Committee for Fire Service Organization and Deployment Projects. He has written nine books, including “Fire Command,” which provides precise procedures for approaching and diminishing “a hazardous situation,” according to a bio found on the Columbia Southern University (CSU) website.

Brunacini has a long list of achievements and several degrees, and currently oversees leadership retreats through the Alan Brunacini Fire-Rescue Leadership Institute hosted by CSU, located in Orange Beach, Ala. Another driving force behind the training system is Bobby Halton. A former fire chief, he is now the Editor-in-Chief of Fire Engineering Magazine, a 133-year-old publication dedicated to providing information on training, education and management for fire and emergency services personnel. Halton is attributed with coining the term “Blue Card” in reference to the program.

“The wildland firefighters obtain a red card once they are certified, so Bobby said ‘why don’t we call ours the Blue Card’ and it stuck,” Stone explained.

He credits Meridian Fire Department Division Chief of Training Kevin Fedrizzi with introducing the program to the Valley.

“He operated under this system in Henderson, Nev.,” he said. “He saw the benefits of it, so he brought it to his department where they kind of tested the water. At the same time, all the chiefs in the Valley were getting together and saying ‘what else can we do together,’ and said ‘let’s all go in this direction.’”

More Than Meets the Eye Most people don’t think about what is involved in fire and emergency responses beyond the sight of fire trucks, firefighters, and the fire itself, according to Eagle Fire Capt. Jeff Krochmal, a Blue Card training instructor who received his certification from Brunacini and his team in Phoenix.

“There is a lot of coordination involved,” he said. “It is very orchestrated. I don’t think people realize that there is actually somebody in control, with all this radio traffic they don’t hear, people guiding what is going on with hydrants, water, locations, tasks and objectives.”

Stone says Meridian and Eagle have already completed the training, and that other departments, including those in Nampa and Caldwell, are in the middle of it. Boise is still in the “infancy” stages of getting started. The goal is to get every department in the Valley on board and speaking the same language.

“If there is a central message to all of this, it’s the fact we are all coming together in a collaborative effort,” Stone noted. “I mean, one missed communication can have catastrophic results. That’s why we are working together to make it a safer place for firefighters and citizens. It has truly been great working with all the other departments and chiefs.”

He hits from both sides of the plate. He's amphibious. ~ Yogi Berra

The future isn't what it used to be. ~ Yogi Berra

PAGE 4 • April 2014

BUSINESS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Neurofeedback (Brain Training) a Success in Eagle!

What recent clients are saying after starting neurofeedback: “I'm learning, instead of getting in trouble at school.”

(9 year old boy diagnosed with ADHD) “It's just easier to be his mom!”

(Mother of a young client with distractibility, hyperness, and sensory issues) “My grades went up because I can focus better!”

(12 year old girl diagnosed with ADD) “I don't have to fight my brain so much!”

(Woman with anger, depression and anxiety) “I'm sleeping through the night, and feeling calmer each week!”

(Man with 10 years of multiple symptoms after a prescription drug reaction) Neurofeedback is becoming increasingly known as a safe and effective alternative therapy for a wide range of symptoms and conditions. But what the heck is it? “Claire,” a professor and neurofeedback client gives us an inside look at her own experience: What made you think that neurofeedback could help you?

I knew that I needed help with anxiety and depression, but drugs would take away one symptom, and then give me others. I knew I needed something else; something that was different than talk therapy, and that could maybe change my physiology. I read an article about neurofeedback, and thought it might be what I was looking for.

What have you experienced from the neurofeedback?

My physiology did change. I’ve largely overcome many of my most dire symptoms: constant crying, a deep sense of desperation, and anxiety. I feel “smarter” and more efficient, and thinking is less hard. I have experienced increases in creativity, assertiveness, and my overall tolerance, and I also enjoy my work more. I generally just feel better.

How would you describe the neurofeedback process?

You wear little sensors on your head that monitor your brainwaves through a little EEG amplifier and a computer. When your brain is meeting the “conditions” set up for it (based

on your own symptoms and brain map), you are “rewarded” by sound or moving images.

This gently teaches your brain to produce more efficient patterns and processes. It can feel “foreign” at first, but you have to kind of let go and be open to “learning” and experiencing something new at the same time.

I sometimes found it frustrating because I didn’t know what it was asking my brain to do, but over time that learning process ended up being helpful.

Do you have advice for other people considering neurofeedback?

I would say stick with it and be aware of subtleties. Sometimes the changes are quick, and sometimes they take time. A “new normal” is possible with neurofeedback; I still have a very busy and stressful life, but I no longer crawl through it, and am not overwhelmed by it. I came for and experienced emotional relief, but surprisingly I found a cognitive relief and awakening. I highly recommend it to everyone.

Neurofeedback Can Help with: • Sleep • Head and Body Pain • Focus and Attention (ADD/ADHD) • Trauma and PTSD • Stress • Anger • Anxiety and Depression • "Busy Brain" • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) • Increasing Peak Performance And much more!

Interested in trying neurofeedback?

Call 208.939.3999 or email lsmith@stateofmindcounseling.com Lynda Smith is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. She is also trained in QEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalography) and Neurofeedback therapy and Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).

For more information on neurofeedback check out our website www.stateofmind counseling.com

April 2014 • PAGE 5

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

By Gretchen Anderson

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

DEADLINE:

To be included in the next issue all information and ads must be submitted by

April 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: Jason Alderman, Gretchen Anderson, Jennifer Anderson, Michelle Anderson, Mark Carnopis, Cathy Hardy, Kim Ingraham, Trina Kubitschek, Joy Lear, Joanne M.W. Love, Philip Janquart, Jim Reynolds, Kent Smith, Frank Thomason, Denice VanDoren, Paul Venosdel, Tom Wick, Tim Williams 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

It wasn’t a haunted house, but we treated it like it was. As kids, we would cross the street so as to not walk on the sidewalk near the home. Back then, it was a “gay house.”

The parents of one of my classmates divorced. Her dad kept the house and it was widely known around the neighborhood that he lived there with his boyfriend. That was back in the 1970s—in conservative Salt Lake City. I told our kids this story and they were aghast. Thankfully, in a generation, perspective has changed.

It’s common knowledge our spawn are heavily involved in musical theater. Some of their best and most-loved mentors are gay.

The first friend I made in Idaho is gay. Lara came out to me in 2003 and I even traveled to Johannesburg, South Africa to stand up for her in her wedding. I attended her same sex wedding because I love her and wanted to support her. I wasn’t in favor of same-sex marriage then. But, I am now.

When our daughter, Helen, wanted to take on a challenging topic for her Senior Project, she chose same-sex marriage. While other kids were researching “texting while driving,“ she was drawn to this near taboo subject. It was through her research and development of a sound argument that we began discussing it as a family. She asked me, “Mom, what if one of us is gay? Would you want something DIFFERENT for that kid over the other kids?”

She had a really good point.

Still, that didn’t stop her from getting cold feet as her presentation day drew nearer. She had good research, strong material and a great presentation planned. But, she started second guessing herself. “Mom, maybe I should hurry and switch to an argument of ‘everybody should have backyard chickens in the name of sustainability’.” Fortunately, she didn’t switch. She mustered the courage, stayed on track and went for it.

We were worried that in (equally conservative) Idaho, she might not get a fair shake.

But, our worry was for not. Out of all the kids who presented their Senior Projects two years ago, there were four perfect scores. Helen had one of them.

Now, Bubba is preparing to present his Senior Project. It’s the same topic—but a lot has changed in 24 months. I’m in awe over how this young generation views same sex marriage and equal rights for the LGBT community. To many of them, it seems that it really shouldn’t be “an issue.”

The millennials will be running the show before we know it. My prediction is the resistance will fade, while this new generation will usher in much needed change.

©April 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.

Advertise in the newspaper that gets read.

15,000 Newspapers DistributedMonthly Call Randy at 794-6858 www.theindnews.com

Fishing Trailer Scheduled for Local Pond Tour Stocked with equipment and information, Fish and Game’s fishing trailer will soon be making more than 30 appearances at local ponds across the region, promoting fishing as part of a healthy outdoor lifestyle.

To learn more about the trailer, contact the Fish and Game Nampa office at 465-8465. More information regarding the fishing trailer will soon be available on Fish and Game’s website at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.

My Masterpiece Parties hiring Here we grow, again! Are you a creative person that has the heart of a teacher? We're looking for someone with an energetic and dynamic personality to show our guests step-by-step how to create paintings in our fun classes. This is a part time position. You must be able to work primarily on Friday and Saturday evenings but also other days/times as needed. The number of classes you'll teach will be variable -- around 4-6 times per month.

To be considered for this position, please follow these instructions: send a cover letter, your resume and a copy of a few sample paintings you have created to: My Masterpiece Parties, LLC 603 E. State Street, Eagle, ID 83616. No phone calls, please.

PAGE 6 • April 2014

CITY OF EAGLE

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

EAGLE LIBRARY April Events ~~~~~~~~~~~ ON-GOING PROGRAMS ~~~~~~~~~~~ Monday, April 7, 14, 21, 28 Baby Readers: 10:30 a.m. (ages birth – 18 months) Miss Suzanne presents stories, songs, and fingerplays for babies and their caregivers.

Monday, April 7, 14, 21, 28 Knee Deep in Legos: 4:00 p.m.

Weekly program for children ages 6 – 12 to use their creativity in building/designing with LEGOS. Tuesday, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 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, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Music & Movement: 10:30 a.m. (ages birth – 5 years) Early literacy skills are built through rhythm and motion in this interactive program for young children and their caregivers.

Around Eagle . . . . . . By Mayor Jim Reynolds Everything just seems to improve a little when spring, or even the promise of it, appears after a dreary winter. People seem friendlier and walk with a bit of spring in their step (no pun intended.) Joanie and I were delighted to see the daffodils and tulips poking through, and shared the good news with our daughters in Chicago and Albany, NY where the snow is still fairly deep with a coating of ice on it. They were not particularly excited at our good fortune. In their part of the world, the primary indication that spring has arrived is when the snow turns to sleet. Life is good.

With respect to water, the good news is that we are at just about 93% of desired snowpack. Now, if we do not have a rapid warming, the reservoirs should serve us through the long hot summer. Not so much for California where the draught turned to mud slides.

The parks are greening along with the emerging flowers, and Parks and Recreation Director Mike Aho reports that the trails wintered pretty well in the Sports Park.

When wet, and under usage, their condition can deteriorate rapidly.

The City should close on the Sports Park acquisition from Ada County on April 1st, just in time for the spring BMX season which will follow almost immediately. The user groups are all making their plans for an exciting summer of competitive biking.

The sports world lost a champion recently with the passing of Bill New, founder and owner of Firebird Raceway on Highway 16.

Bill has many friends and colleagues who will miss him dearly. It will be up to his three sons to continue the tradition they have enjoyed for the past 46 years.

You will likely see yet another Eagle Magazine to grace your coffee table. This one will be less a periodical, and more an annual publication highlighting the beauty of Eagle and showcasing our local businesses.

The future of Eagle Road and Old State Street is back on the burner with the City council to soon make their recommendation of how to proceed with the intersection.

A last minute blast of misinformation prompted sort of a signed petition (mostly without phone numbers and addresses) to stop implementation of a roundabout at the corner. It will be ACHD’s decision as to the solution for the intersection, and their primary motivation will likely be safety and traffic operations. In those two areas, the roundabout scores the highest. It is also the unanimous recommendation of the group of Eagle residents who serve on the Transportation Committee.

Cell service along Floating Feather and Beacon Light leaves much to be desired.

A Florida company would like to install a cell tower to solve that problem. They suggest a 110-foot cell tower on Eagle Hills Golf Course.

As you might guess, many of the local residents are less than enthusiastic about that suggestion, and are making their thoughts known to those who decide such things. Could we perhaps consider a couple of 55-foot towers instead? Stay tuned.

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

www.eaglepubliclibrary.org

Wednesday, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 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, April 2, 9, 16, 23 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.

Thursday, April 3, 10, 17, 24 Preschool Story Time: 10:30 a.m. (ages 3 – 5 years) Join Miss Ruby Slippers for stories, songs, and surprises.

Friday, April 4, 11, 18, 25 Ready, Set, School! 10:30 a.m. (ages 3 – 5 years) This program combines fun with school-readiness skills.

Friday, April 11, 25 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 ~~~~~~~~~~~

Tuesday, April 1 April Fools Party: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6 – 12) Crazy fun for the day that celebrates all things silly!

Thursday, April 3 Whatever! Book Club: 4:15 p.m. (ages 9 – 11) Bring whatever you are currently reading and join a club that is all about books, food, and fun. What could be better?

Saturday, April 5 AARP Tax Help: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (adults) Tuesday, April 8 Mad Science: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6 - 12) “Crime Scene Science” is the featured topic in this month’s after -school STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program.

Tuesday, April 8 Xeriscaping: 6:30 p.m. (adults) Diane Jones of Draggin’ Wing Farm, named for the killdeer that nest in her demo garden, will join us to discuss low-water landscaping.

Wednesday, April 9 BINGO: 4:15 p.m. (teens) The timeless game. You forgot how fun it is! Come rediscover the magic.

Prizes and food!

Wednesday, April 9 Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters: 6:30 p.m. (adults) Christine Bubb of the Greater Idaho Chapter, Alzheimer’s Association explains how to recognize the signs of Alzheimer’s disease in you or a loved one, and the difference between the myths and realities about the disease.

Thursday, April 10 Young Reader’s Choice Award Voting Party: 4:15 p.m. (ages 9 – 11, 4th – 6th grade) If you have read at least two of the nominated titles, you are invited to participate in our first annual YRCA voting party. Food! Trivia! Prizes!

Cast your ballot; maybe your choice will win!

Tuesday, April 15 Kids Can Cook: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6 - 12) Easter Treats!

Wednesday, April 16 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: EGGS & CHICKS! Tuesday, April 22 Paint a Pot, Plant a Seed: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6 – 12) Celebrate Earth Day! Decorate a clay pot, then plant a seed and watch your mini garden grow!

Tuesday, April 22 Sustainable Gardening: 6:00 p.m. (adults) The Seed Collection at the Eagle Public Library will have its first anniversary on Earth Day. Sandy Turpen of Pioneer Gardens will explain sustainable vegetable gardening.

Enjoy fresh produce all season!

Tuesday, April 29 Crafty Kids: 4:15 p.m. (ages 6 - 12) Create a mini birdhouse using nothing more than a small cardboard box, markers, paint, and a few odds and ends.

Let your imagination run wild!

POW/MIA House Resolution passes, moves to Senate As of March 2014, there are over 83,000 service members that remain unaccounted for. Resolution shows Idaho’s support of further investigation.

On March 6, 2014 Star Mayor Nathan Mitchell and the Moore family attended the Legislative meeting at the Capitol in Boise, Idaho in support of House Joint Memorial 8.

The Resolution, introduced by Representative Rick Youngblood, calls for a House Select Committee on POW and MIA affairs. This committee would conduct a full investigation of all unresolved matters relating to any United States personnel unaccounted for from the conflicts dating back to World War II, including MIAs and POWs missing and captured.

Thanks to Mayor Mitchell for his ongoing support of the Moore family and to the Idaho Representatives who have not forgotten our missing servicemen. House Joint Memorial 8 was passed unanimously. Subsequently, on March 19th, the Senate also unanimously passed the Joint Memorial. The State of Idaho has overwhelmingly shown support, encouraging the US Congress to adopt this Legislation (HR231).

Eagle residents Bob and Lois Moore have spent the past 11 years trying to find answers and resolution to what became of their loved one. They always believed Captain Moore was killed in action in 1951 when his P51 Mustang was shot down during the Korean War. In 2002, nearly 50 years later, they received information from the Department of Defense that indicated Captain Moore may have survived and was possibly transferred to the Soviet Union and never returned.

A documentary released last year, Keeping the Promise Alive, is told by Harry’s loved ones as they share their emotional journey and the bureaucratic roadblocks.

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson has pledged support of this legislation; however, Congressman Raul Labrador has yet to indicate any support of our POW’s and MIA’s. “As a Veteran, I am greatly disappointed in Representative Labrador’s lack of willingness to support the effort to find our missing service men and women,” said Star Mayor Nate Mitchell.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

EAGLE NEWS

Meet the NSU Prinz II, Eagle’s Own Microcar

By Philip A. Janquart It weighs 1,130 pounds, is painted a soft shade of yellow and has chrome motorcycle exhaust pipes rising out from under the rear bumper.

Local businessman Rob Jestadt loves driving his 1961 German-made NSU Prinz II on sunny days. He doesn’t mind the attention the tiny, two-cylinder “microcar” receives from curious motorists, but it makes him a little nervous when they roll up close to get a better look.

“I’m always afraid someone is going to run into it,” said Jestadt, who operates an emissions testing station on Old State Street, in the Jiffy Lube parking lot. “Parts availability is really drying up, so if you need something, you are probably going to find yourself in a situation where you have to buy a whole car to get what you need.”

Jestadt drives his Prinz (Deutsche for “Prince”) to work on clear days, parking it next to the small hut that houses his business. People driving by, more often than not, seem to notice it. Some even stop to check it out.

The Prinz Jestadt’s particular car is No. 30,248 of about 95,000 Prinz IIs produced worldwide between 1957 and 1962 before the introduction of the Prinz III. Production of the line halted altogether in 1973.

The NSU Prinz II was developed and manufactured in Germany by NSU Motorenwerke AG, but facilities in Argentina, Egypt and Sarajevo, Bosnia churned them out for local markets, according to Jestadt.

“In Argentina, they were called the Autocar,” he said. “They made them in Egypt, near the pyramids, and called them the “Ramses,” which explains why there seem to be some parts that come out of that area.”

Jestadt bought his microcar for $50 in 1974 while working as the foreign parts manager for Capital Lincoln Mercury/British Imports at 25th and Main in Boise.

Rob Jestadt's 1961 NSU Prinz II

A look at Bruce Weiner's microcar collection, which was auctioned off in February 2013.

“This guy came in and wanted $50 for the car and another one that was minus the motor and rear wheels,” he said. “So my buddy and I bought them. We left them there overnight and when we came back in the morning, the car was turned over on its top, like a turtle. The roof was smashed down and oil flowed out all over. I bought the other car from my buddy and decided I wanted to try my amateur body work skills on it, and see if I could get it running.”

It took him years, but Jestadt got the brakes working, as well as the motor after tearing it apart and putting it all back together.

Although not in “cherry” condition, Jestadt’s car is a great, running example of the line.

The 1961 NSU Prinz II The two-door Prinz II features a 583cc, 24-horsepower, two-cylinder air-cooled motor, with a non-synchromeshed, four-speed “Dog” transmission, which refers to the type of internal gears that more closely resemble those in a motorcycle transmission.

“The motor is based off the 300 max, a motorcycle engine,” he said. “They just added another cylinder.

It’s a two-valve hemi. It works like an old locomotive, the way those engines drive the wheels, that’s what drives the camshaft, like two bars that drive the camshaft wheel at the top.”

It also has a Bing carburetor, manufactured

by Germany’s BING Power Systems GmbH. “It’s like the [American] Weber carburetor,” Jestadt explained. “It has the individual little sets of jets for three different chambers.”

He said the engines have two pistons that move up and down in tandem, which is opposite of most engines, whose pistons move alternately.

Other notable features include two, six-volt ignition coils, one for each cylinder (most cars have one for all cylinders) and a combined starter motor/alternator that also house the electrical system’s points, as well as a set of brushes and windings for the alternator.

Continued on page 12

uCr itic ..... Tom Wick, Universal Critic I can see why Hollywood will sometimes remake a movie: it’s a great story and they think the remake will be better than the first version.

Makes sense. But then we have RoboCop. Paul Verhoeven’s 1987 RoboCop was a biting satire of American culture that was unnecessarily bloody and gory. In fact, there was so much gore that Verhoeven had to edit the movie eleven different times to prevent an X rating. It’s barely watchable, so I can see why they remade it.

However, the remake, directed by Jose Padiiha, does a great job of telling a story without all the blood and gore, but he should have stuck with the original RoboCop story, it was much more interesting. I found this version of RoboCop quite boring and overly predictable and the only satire was of the media, but our current media is really a satire of itself and RoboCop did nothing groundbreaking in that respect. And where the original received some Academy Award nominations, this version won’t come close, not for special effects, not for editing and especially not for acting. I recommend you save RoboCop for Redbox.

If you’re wanting action this month, your movie dollar will be better spent on Non-Stop with Liam Neeson. You may be tempted to think this is Taken 3, but it is nothing of the sort.

Neeson plays a depressed US Air Marshall framed as a hijacker. In addition to great directing and acting, the storyline never stops or pauses and I never thought a fistfight in an airplane bathroom could be so intense.

Unlike so many action movies that take twenty minutes to set up characters and suspense, the director, Jaume Collet-Serra gets all the character development and action going in the first five minutes…and then it doesn’t stop.

Collet-Serra doesn’t treat the viewer as an idiot, we’ve seen enough action movies, we can figure things out and he relies on that.

Every few minutes a new character is introduced and you’re left wondering whether they’re innocent or guilty and just as you can’t figure it out, neither can Neeson. And, in addition to everything that works in this movie, Collet-Serra does an excellent job of integrating our social and media culture in with the film (much better than RoboCop). I expect Non-Stop to receive some screenplay and editing awards.

Definitely worth ten bucks and most definitely worth watching in the cheap seats. Don’t wait for this one on the small screen.

A few recaps: Didn’t I say that Cate Blanchett would win the Academy Award for Best Actress?

Yes, I did. And she did win. So, if you’ve haven’t seen Blue Jasmine yet, it’s time to see it. Also, I’ve been recommending TV shows Good Wife and Elementary for quite a while now. Both have been renewed for multiple seasons. Watch Good Wife if you like law shows and you like drama.

Watch Elementary if you like cop shows and you like know-it-alls like Sherlock Holmes who is wonderfully played by Jonny Lee Miller. Lucy Liu plays a great Watson.

April 2014 • PAGE 7

PAGE 8 • April 2014

EAGLE NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

The Eagle Arts Commission's mission is growing and celebrating the arts to strengthen community.

It was established to promote, educate and develop the arts for the citizens of the City of Eagle.

City Hall Art Gallery Gallery hours: 8am to 5pm

April Artist - Lauren Johnson

After successful careers in the business community as a management accountant and real estate business owner, Lauren now devotes her time to her passion of art. In addition to studying with several local artists in Albuquerque, she’s had training with national instructors Terry Madden, Tom Lynch, Carol Orr, Ted Nuttal, Betsey Dillard Stroud, Tony Couch, Ken Hosmer, Frank LaLumia, Dale Laitenen and David Drummond.

Lauren works in transparent watercolor and water based pastel on varied surfaces and paints a variety of subjects including landscape, still-life, abstract, southwest design, floral, animals and portraiture...all with an eye on the design patterns of shapes and values.

She has shown and been a frequent award-winner in juried shows such as Masterworks of NM, Weems Artfest, NMWS, PSNM, TWS, Expo NM, Rio Grand Arts and Crafts Shows, NM Art League, State Fair of Idaho, IWS, TVAA, and Nampa Art League.

ST LUKE’S GALLERY 7am to 6pm, Monday- Friday • Art exhibits are located on the second level That would be cool if you could eat a good food with a bad food and the good food would cover for the bad food when it got to your stomach. Like you could eat a carrot with an onion ring and they would travel down to your stomach, then they would get there, and the carrot would say, It's cool, he's with me. ~ Mitch Hedberg

April Artist - Norm Nelson Norm Nelson has always sought out serene landscapes and wild creatures in Idaho's pristine wilderness.

He backpacks in carrying watercolor art materials for quick sketches. From these he creates oil paintings using a combination of impasto techniques, some with painting knives, others with more traditional layering approaches. Layers of oil paint add luminance. He is drawn to the heavy, clean, texture of oil paint that has been mixed on glass without any influence from medium, or brush residue.

“I hope the viewer is inspired by the presentation of work that opens a door, provides a pathway into a vast landscape in a large painting. Painting actual places provides true evidence of nature and man together. I do my best to give an impression of my experience with a landscape and to the people it attracts. Finally, I hope to keep the viewer in the painting by finding an eye line that is not escaped until the rewards are felt. It is best to view my work with a long look as these images need to sink in before they connect,” said Norm.

The Eagle Arts Commission comprised of volunteers, serves in an advisory capacity and is established to advise Eagle the City Council on ways in which city government might best serve the public with regard to matters involving the arts.

Fresco Arts Academy Awards Gala Continued from page 1 “Music is an international language. It is Killmaster, who openly invited anyone to able to communicate emotion and express come to his studio to see his artwork, is a feeling in a completely profound way,” he Michigan native and Professor of Arts Emerisaid. “I feel fortunate to be able to express tus at Boise State. He is a painter working in exactly what I want to say and be socially acrylics, gouache, oil and watercolor, but is critical in a time where we need people to also internationally recognized as an innovastand up for what they truly believe in.” tive enamellist. His work has been exhibited “Music can transform someone's emotional at the Smithsonian Institute, the Denver Art state almost instantly and that is the magic of Museum and the San music. Our current musical Francisco Museum of and arts climate has been Modern Art, as well as in decimated due to lack of many locations across the funding for the arts. The globe. Fresco honored his good news is that there are achievements with the still people everywhere Extraordinary Visual believing in the magic of Artist award. music and the power it has Finally, renowned to create good in the world.” actress and Boise resident “People thinking the same Maureen O’Hara was thought at the same time is Marcus Eaton performs with honored with a Lifetime power and an important reFresco Arts Academy students.

Achievement Award. Born sponsibility to change somein Dublin, Ireland, the one; sometimes just enough fiery red head appeared to take them out of a feeling in dozens of films, often of complete powerlessness. working with director I am proud to be a musiJohn Ford and opposite cian and to have the ability John Wayne. to inspire others and in a “I very much enjoyed world where negativity can working with all the be pervasive.” leading men in our Fresco Arts Academy Execmovies, men like Charles utive Director Kendell Fresco Executive Director Laughton and John Nielsen concluded the Kendell Nielsen poses with a Wayne,” She said. evening’s event by remindguest at the Fresco Arts Some of the most ing students that everyone Academy Awards Gala March 6. poignant comments of has to start somewhere. the night came from Eaton who expressed his “At one time, these four recipients were concern over the current state of art education just like you,” he said. “One day, you can be in the U.S. just like one of them.”

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

COMMUNITY

Ladies and Gentleman, start your engines

By Kent Smith For many, the term “go karting” conjures up images of amusement park rental rides that are relatively fun, easy to drive, but very slow and not terribly exciting. So, most are surprised when they hear that competitive karting is one of the world’s most popular motorsports. These karts are different: they are not slow and are not a snap to drive at their limits. Indeed, the Treasure Valley is home to an astonishing pool of karting talent, including many multiple national title winners, and the current #1 ranked Rotax Mini driver. If you gathered up all the regional and national trophies earned in the valley you would need more than a pick-up truck to haul them all.

Racing karts start with a slimmed down, light weight frame. Sticky tires are added, along with a 4 or 2 stroke engine whose power outputs range from less than 10 hp to over 40. The combination propels karts to top speeds between 40 and 90 mph, and they turn with twice the cornering force of even the best sports cars. Drivers wear extensive protection gear and look the part of a professional.

The Snake River Karters is the Treasure Valley’s local club. Each year they host eight club races and numerous practices at their facility north of Star. It’s not a big track by regional standards, but many improvements are planned, and the high pedigree of racers it has produced speaks for itself. To accommodate the wide range of driving talents,

James O'Brien and Chance Bird race their 42 horsepower 125 Shifters Photo credits: Karen Smith

IKF National Champion Stafford Smith chats with fellow drivers and friends at the track.

ages, and investments, the club runs seven main classes. Kid Karts feature drivers 5-8 years old, followed by two Junior classes up to 16 years, followed by Seniors, which include the faster Rotax and Shifter classes.

Several of the drivers are female. The oldest member doesn’t give his age except to say he’s been in the sport for over 40 years.

Just as there are different classes to match a racer’s age and experience, there are different ways to get into the sport. There are many used but well maintained karts for sale in the valley, and there are several options for engine maintenance. A driver might invest as little as $1,000 in their kart; those at the national level spend several times that amount and travel extensively.

Why karting? The recent club survey gave two main reasons: the thrill of the racing, and having fun with family and friends.

It’s a cooperative sport. Entire families are involved—and, yes, it’s a sport that’s still cool for the kids to hang with their parents.

The saying goes: “Get your kid to shut the xbox off, get off the couch, and do it for real.”

And unlike video games, karting teaches you to respect speed, learn to problem solve, it keeps you in shape, and keeps you with family.

The Snake River Karters season kicks off in early May with an open house scheduled for May 17, 2014 at 10 a.m. at the Glen Morgan Raceway on Can Ada Road, 2.5 miles north of Hwy 44 west of Star.

April 2014 • PAGE 9

PAGE 10 • April 2014

BUSINESS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

State’s largest archery store expands into Eagle

I'm sick of following my dreams.

I'm just going to ask them where they're going and hook up with them later. ~ Mitch Hedberg

Fate is like a strange, unpopular restaurant filled with odd little waiters who bring you things you never asked for and don't always like. ~ Lemony Snicket

By Philip A. Janquart You have to start somewhere and in many cases, in a country built on ingenuity, vision, and drive, it starts in a garage.

T.J. Hofhines, 27, decided his favorite thing in the world was archery, so he started selling bows out of the double stall at his home in Kuna.

That was six years ago.

Today he owns the largest archery facility in the state of Idaho. Located in Meridian, Dead-On Archery boasts 8,000 square feet and contains shooting ranges. encounters. But it became almost too easy He recently opened his second location in and I wanted to do something a little more Eagle, just east of Highway 55 and across the challenging, so I got into archery.” parking lot from Home Depot.

The Industry “I started in archery when I was a kid and According to Hofhines, archery is the worked on it, working my way up fastest growing sport in the and went on to shoot profesworld, which makes it a pretty sional for Bowtech Archery,” good business to be in, and Hofhines said during a grand has become a very popular opening held March 8. “I did a lot family activity. of shooting with them, in the Eu“I think they say 5,000 ropean circuit.” people come into archery Bowtech is a relatively new every day,” he said. “It’s crazy, company in terms of compound and women and youth have bow manufacturers. Founded in absolutely exploded. My wife 2000, the company has already and daughters, Kimber and established itself as one of the Kinzie, both shoot. Hillary top outfits in the U.S. In 2007, it shot professional for Bowtech, received a patent for its “Binary Erin Fox pulls back the as well.”

Cam” pulley system, which has Life is busy for the Hofhines, string on a compound revolutionized the industry. but T.J. had time to bag the bow built just for her.

Hofhines had to find somebiggest elk he has ever shot Dead-On Archery owner thing else to do, however, when last year, a “360 class” animal.

T.J. Hofhines says the Bowtech was forced to trim its “A 360-class elk just means sport is increasingly workforce during the financial popular among children how many inches of antler crises. was on the animal,” he said. and women.

“The economy kind of col“You take 52 inches, and you lapsed and I was out of a job and my wife said have about four feet of antler. So, 360 inches ‘Hey you’ve got the skills, you’ve got the comes out to 30 feet of antler.” knowledge and the tools, so why don’t you do You can see a picture of the animal by it?’ So, we started selling compound bows out going to www.facebook.com/tjhofhines. of our garage in 2008.”

While Meridian is the larger of the two What brand? Bowtech, of course. stores, Hofhines says his intention is to even“Obviously, I’m going to shoot what I sell, tually expand the Eagle location. but these days bows are all pretty good,” “We’ve already been making plans for our Hofhines said. store here in Eagle,” he said. “We hope to do He rounds out his stock, however, with some great things here in the future.” bows from Elite.

For more information, log on to Hofhines and his wife, Hillary, who was www.deadonarchery.com, or call 922-9744. also a professional archer, opened their first retail location in Meridian in 2011. They started with 4,000-square feet, but soon expanded to 8,000. The archery store has become more of a “facility” where instructors train students how to shoot.

“Our Meridian store has full 30-yard and 20-yard ranges, a testing range and a virtual hunting simulator, as well,” Hofhines said.

“We set people up and help them shoot well.

We have lessons and classes.”

Hofhines said part of his motivation in learning to shoot compound bows is rooted in his hunting experiences with guns.

“As a kid, I had a .30-30 I used,” explained Hillary, left, and T.J., right, behind the the Wyoming native. “I used open sites all the counter, serve customers during time, which means I was always close to the Dead-On Archery's grand opening animals, and I was always having those close held March 8

EAGLE FIRST FRIDAY Premier Fusions Glass Studio excites national acclaim

April 2014 • PAGE 11

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

By Jennifer Anderson June 1st, 2014 will mark Fusions Glass Studio’s one year anniversary in their new space in downtown Eagle. The location has drawn as much interest in the studio as in its beautifully designed and spacious new building. Located in the heart of Eagle at 135 N. 2nd Street, the studio boasts an art gallery, local handmade glass gifts and art, a working studio, and classroom teaching space that are unique to the glass fusing community on a national level.

Glass fusing – or kilnformed glass – is different than stained glass or blown glass.

In kilnformed glass, heat is applied to the glass using a kiln rather than a furnace.

Designs and shapes are based on layering and combining different forms of glass and melting in a kiln producing a look that is unique and very different than other forms of glass art.

The Kilnforming glass community has a long history beginning as early as 2000 B.C. The art form disappeared for a time around 500 A.D. when blown glass became a medium. Toward the end of the 1800’s the art form was rediscovered from ancient Roman artifacts, but while a few worked with it in the 1920’s, it was not fully realized until about 1974 when Bullseye Glass Company in Portland, Oregon formed and developed a tested compatible line of glass. The tested compatible glass allowed kilnformed glass artists to create their art without the frequent breakage caused by melting incompatible glass together.

Over the past 40 years, Bullseye has not just been a manufacturer of glass but has continued to research and develop the technical and artistic aspects of combining heat and glass. They are the leader in the kilnformed glass art community, providing research, education, and artist collaboration despite competition developing as the art form gained popularity nationally and internationally during the 1990s In 2003, when Fusions Glass Studio opened its doors for business, owner Linda Crouch decided to ally herself and her business with Bullseye Glass Co. as she felt they had the best education opportunities, product, array of colors, and facilities specifically designed around continued research in the product and art form. When Linda opened her studio, it was not with the expectation that she would become a famous artist, but with the intent to teach and share her love and passion for kilnformed glass.

Noticing the volume of glass that had been flowing through Eagle, Idaho, Bullseye was

impressed with the level of knowledge, classes, and services provided, and invited Linda to become one of the first participates in their new Kilnformed Glass Resource Center (K.G.R.C.) program.

Bullseye had decided to break with the norm of only distributing through stained glass distributors and begin distribution through the people who were the most knowledgeable and able to support their product – those who were teaching kilnformed glass.

Fusions Glass Studio was one of the pilots in that new program and now distributes and supports much of the Pacific Northwest community of kilnformed glass artists.

Linda says, “We are one of the most successful K.G.R.C.’s in the nation and the only K.G.R.C that offers programs for all levels, from the person with no experience who just wants to come make a simple project, through beginning and intermediate artists who need a place to develop their talent, to the experienced artist needing the support and knowledge to further their art.”

Bullseye references Fusions as a model to other studios wanting to become successful K.G.R.C.s. Linda says while other glass studios typically focus on either the craft aspect or the art aspect, Fusions covers the spectrum, offering no-experience required walk-in projects for all ages, beginning to advanced classes, and regularly has internationally known artists in-house to teach those who are more advanced.

“We are unique,” says Linda, “We run an open studio and don’t just support the people who know how to do it all.” Because Fusions is a locally owned operation, many do not realize the gem that exists in their own back yard.

Many come into Fusions and see the studio as the norm, and it is only later when they try to find the same setup elsewhere in the nation that they come to realize the “uniqueness” of Fusions. Artists come from all over the country to visit Fusions and are in awe of the studio, the space, and the availability of product and the level of artistry displayed by local talent.

The level of high-quality finished kilnformed glass work in the Treasure Valley has grown tremendously over the last 10 years, and much of that is due to Linda and Fusions. Stop by and experience for yourself the craft and artistry of kilnformed glass. Fusions Glass Studio is located at 135 N 2nd St., Eagle, Idaho and can be reached at (208) 938-1055. Check their website www.fusions-idaho.com for class schedules, upcoming featured artists, and hours of operation.

Read the following articles on our website, www.theindnews.com: The results of the ACHD decision on the Eagle Rd./State Street intersection; Should you get new windows; The Boys and Girls Club of the Treasure Valley; and the Fish Trailer's upcoming locations.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

EAGLE’S NEXT FIRST FRIDAY is April 4 Fusions Glass Studio 135 N 2nd St, 938-1055: 5-8 pm Glass demonstrations all evening. Tour the studio, learn about our classes, and make some glass art of your own.

The Gallery At Finer Frames 164 E State St, Ste B, 888-9898: 5-8 pm EHS Juried Exhibition Opening Reception The Eagle High School Juried Exhibition is a one-of-a-kind art show for aspiring student artists. Opening Reception and awards. Refreshments provided for art lovers.

Check our Facebook page for additional events for the evening:

www.facebook.com/indnews

BUSINESS

PAGE 12 • April 2014

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Cylos Lounge Grand Opening Saturday March 8, 2014, Cylos Lounge in Eagle, Idaho opened its doors. Offering live music, premium cocktails, craft brews and an exciting, creative menu including your favorites plus hand-rolled Sushi, Cylos Lounge caters to adults (21+) who are looking for a friendly, casual atmosphere to enjoy drinks, lunch or dinner.

The Eagle Chamber of Commerce and fellow well-wishers joined the staff of Cylos for a Ribbon Cutting during their open house that commenced the celebration including drink and food specials all day long. The celebration lasted from 3:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.

Owner Alicia Wagner had this to say, “I have been in the service industry for most of my life. I worked at Albertsons for 15 years and at the same time I have served, cooked,

Eagle’s Own Microcar Continued from page 7 “It was a little ahead of its time in that regard,” Jestadt said of the system.

The Prinz II has a top speed of about 75 mph and gets about 58 miles per gallon of gas.

The chrome exhaust is a bit of a customization. Jestadt got them from a motorcycle shop in Garden City and says he just likes the looks of it.

MicroMania Microcar is the smallest classification for automobiles and there is a fairly defined market for classic microcars in the U.S. Until last year, the world’s largest collection of collectable microcars was located in Madison, Ga. The Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum auctioned off over

300 of them for about $8 million beginning Feb. 13, 2013. The museum is now closed.

“I’ve decided that the Microcar Museum has been open long enough,” Bruce said. “My interests have moved to a different place. I’m an empty nester now, and my children don’t have the same interest in microcars, so I want to see the cars all go to new homes,” museum founder Bruce Weiner told Hemmings Daily in 2012.

In Eagle, people can always stop by the emission testing station on Old State Street and get a look at an original.

“When the weather is good, I like to drive it and I probably drive it more than I should, but I love this little car,” Jestadt said.

bartended or managed Mulligans in downtown Boise for the last 20 years with me actually owning it the last 12 of those years.

I am married and have 2 kids ages 13 & 10.

We live in this area of town and love dining out and supporting locally owned bars and restaurants and are very excited to bring a new one to this area.”

Alicia goes on to say, “I received the opportunity to utilize an Eagle liquor license and chose Old Eagle because I love to support locally owned companies and I loved the sense of community this area had.”

Visit Cylos Lounge at 1065 E. Winding Creek Dr. Eagle, Idaho 83616 (behind Willow Creek Grill). They are open MondaySaturday.

Photo Credit: Frank Thomason In front row, center, Greta and Emma Weiss, Riley and Rachel Anderson, Reagan and Jacob Wagner and Isabelle Furniss help owner Alicia Wagner wield the oversized scissors at the March 8th ribbon cutting.

Steve’s Auto Care returns to Star Steve's Auto Care will be opening late June of this year. Formerly Star Auto, the location will be the same located at 10915 W. State Street, Star. Providing complete automotive services for most major brands of vehicles, Steve’s Auto Care will service domestic vehicles, Asian imports, and European imports.

Steve says, “We can handle vehicles ranging from passenger cars, SUV's, minivans, light trucks and even heavier duty trucks, and we will provide all automotive repair and maintenance services.”

Services range from routine oil changes to computer diagnostics and brakes. We also offer a 12 month, 12,000 mile warranty on all work, and we always offer a free brake inspection.

Please come by and visit Steve at Steve’s Auto Care and say “hi” to Smokey, Murphy and Bubba.

BUSINESS Saint Alphonsus welcomes Oasis Medical Center

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

By Jennifer Anderson Heather Vachek, Director of Operations for Saint Alphonsus Medical Group, introduced the speakers and welcomed Oasis Medical Group doctors and medical staff to the Saint Alphonsus family on Wednesday, February 19th during a ribbon cutting and blessing ceremony.

The facility, located at 3217 W. Bavaria in Eagle (crossroads of Chinden and Meridian Roads), will be open seven days a week from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Dr. Diane Turner and Dr. Arthur C. Jones IV will be the attending physicians and look forward to their relationship with Saint Alphonsus Medical Group.

Dr. Turner said, “I love people and getting to know people, and I’m grateful to have the Saint Alphonsus group behind us.” She goes on to add, “I love starting off every day with a prayer.”

Nancy Powell, Chief Administrative Officer for Saint Alphonsus Medical Group, talked about their long journey to partnership, and how when she first walked into the office she

The waiting area of Oasis has a great built in castle to entertain children while they wait.

(L-R) From Saint Alphonsus Medical Group: Director of Operations Heather Vachek, Chief Administrative Officer Nancy Powell, and Mission Educator Sister Beth Mulvaney. fell in love with it. She is also excited about the centers perfect fit with their purpose to bring “compassionate care close to home.”

Eagle Chamber of Commerce members were on hand as well as Mayor Jim Reynolds for the ribbon cutting ceremony, and Sister Beth Mulvaney, Mission Educator, blessed the facility with a sprinkling rite.

Dr. Turner specializes in Internal Medicine and Dr. Jones in Family Medicine. “Whether individuals need preventative, chronic, or acute care, I strive to work with my patients to create a patient-directed plan of care that treats body, mind, and spirit. I am especially interested in women’s health and am willing to partner with my patients on alternative medicine options – including bio-identical hormone therapy,” says Dr. Turner.

To schedule an appointment with Doctors Turner or Jones call 208-286-6676. They are accepting new patients.

Wednesday, February 19, 2014, Saint Alphonsus Medical Group welcomed Oasis Medical Center to their family of physicians.

Calling all writers or persons with an interesting article idea or story to tell: be a part of The Independent News and your community.

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April 2014 • PAGE 13

PAGE 14 • April 2014

STAR NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

A Day for the Residents of Star Star’s Hometown Celebration Committee Begins Planning for the 4th of July Although is it hard to imagine a hot summer right now, planning for the 4th of July starts early for the Hometown Celebration.

Last year was a great success and advance planning is key to ensuring an equally fun, if not better, event this year. Last year was the first year that we held some of the events at Hunter Creek Sports Park. It worked out so well that we are going to have all the events take place at this location. The Fabulous Chancellors, talent show and fireworks will be back this year!

The Hometown Celebration is meant to be just that, a celebration, for the residents of Star. We are asked occasionally about why this isn’t like past events? In short, it is not supposed to be. It is day for the residents of Star to visit with their neighbors, friends and family, and enjoy food and entertainment that is affordable, and perhaps even within walking distance of their homes. It is not intended to entertain the entire valley. The City of Star has made the commitment to fund this event under these guidelines and the committee is here to organize the day and raise funds via the raffle and sponsors to offset the cost of the fireworks.

Star Businesses are Encouraged to Participate For the businesses in Star, the Hometown Celebration offers an opportunity to participate in and show the residents that they support the community that supports them.

Last year, the number of raffle prizes that were donated was truly amazing, and we hope these donations continue. This is a fundraiser for the fireworks show – a worthy cause! In addition, Star Businesses, how about putting together an entry for the Parade this year? It would be awesome to see our local business community’s creativity, collaboration and candy-throwing abilities in action!

In addition, any business that steps up as a sponsor will have the opportunity to display a banner at the event. Details about those opportunities will be forthcoming.

Non-Profits – Great Fund Raising Opportunity In the spirit of community, we are encouraging local non-profits to use this event to raise funds for their organizations. For nonprofits that would like to sell ice cream, cold drinks or snacks during the evening performances, we have organized a layout that should work well for groups to provide cool refreshments on a hot summer night - and make some money! It will be first come, first serve and we will be accepting applications until June 1st from Star non-profits only. After that, we will open it up to groups outside of Star.

All groups must supply their own cover/ tables, etc. We may have some power available, but it is strongly recommended that you come prepared with your own generator and power cords. If you would like more information on how your non-profit can participate, please attend the meeting listed below or call 890-9824.

Are You Going to Help This Year?

As with every other year, we once again ask for your help. This is an event that is really fun for the community and we are looking forward to a great evening. But, WE NEED YOUR HELP. The same 10 people that volunteer every year are getting really tired, and older. We need all kinds of help and you don’t have to make a huge commitment of time. It really is fun to be a part of putting this event together!

For more information on any of the events, just show up Wednesday, April 9th at 6:30 pm at Star City Hall. We are having a general meeting at that time.

Plan on a great 4th of July in Star!

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

CITY OF STAR

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

www.staroutreachonline.com Do you need help, or know someone that does?

Contact Christina at 919-1100.

Like us on Facebook

STAR LIBRARY - April Events Teen Make It program (ages 12 and up) at 4 p.m. 4/3, 4/10, 4/24 Pizza and Books (teens 12 and up) at 4 p.m. – you bring a book you have read and we provide the pizza– 4/17 Saturday 4/12 “Beyond the Book” discussion for adults at 10 a.m. We are reading “Gilead,” by Marilynne Robinson. Pick up April’s selection and join us for a spirited discussion.

Saturday 4/19 What you need to know about Social Security (before you get there!)

10:30 a.m. - 12 noon It’s never too early to plan for retirement.

Sponsored by Edward Jones, presenter Jeanne Tyler, formerly with the Social Security Administration, will provide information and answer questions.

Saturday 4/19 All About Make It programs 1-2:30 p.m. For all ages.

Featuring our 3-D printer and more Saturday 4/26 El Dia de los Ninos Party Celebration for all ages – Mariachi band, dancers, stories, crafts and refreshments! from 12-2 p.m. *Preschools and daycares are welcome to call the library to schedule a story time visit!

Just call 286-9755.

Mondays: 4/7, 4/14, 4/21, 4/28 Preschool Play and Learn Story time (ages 3–5) at 10:30 a.m.

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

Tuesdays: 4/1, 4/8, 4/15, 4/22, 4/29 Star Quilters Meet on alternate Tuesdays of each month, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Open to anyone interested – 4/1, 4/15, 4/29 Make It Challenge (ages 8-12) from 3:30-5:30 p.m. –– creative fun all month, involving magnets, eggs-periments, worm habitats and squishy circuits!

Wednesdays: 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 Star Knitters Meet each Wednesday morning from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Open to anyone interested.

After-School Adventures (grades 1~6) at 4 p.m. Get your creativity on for re-imagining stories Thursdays: 4/3, 4/10, 4/17, 4/24 Babies and Music (ages 0-3) at 10:30 a.m.

Stories, songs and fingerplays for babies and a parent.

We need: Canned vegetables • Pasta • Soup • Cereal Bar soap • Laundry detergent • Deodorant As always, thank you for your ongoing generous donations.

In February the Food Bank gave out 56 food boxes We served: 105 Adults • 15 Seniors • 97 Children • 3 New Families

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. www.staridaho.org/parks/activities.php 208 286-7247 Needlepoint Classes Wednesdays in April and May at Star City Hall Taught by Dyan Kastner. $5.00/class.

No experience needed.

Yoga 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Wednesdays in April and May at Star City Hall.

For all abilities. $25/month, mat is required.

Learn the benefits of this ancient practice.

Tumbling 4:15 and 5:15 p.m. (limit 6 participants).

Tuesdays, April 15 - May 20 at Star Elementary. $35 for 6 week session.

U of I Master Gardener Classes Thursday, April 3rd at 6:30 p.m. at Star City Hall “How to attract beneficial insects to your yard and garden” will be the discussion.

Thursday, April 24th at 6:30 p.m. at Star’s River Rock Ranch’s Rose garden. Please call and reserve your spot at 286-7247.

SPECIAL APRIL PROGRAMS: National Library Week will be celebrated April 14-19.

Fines up to $10 may be waived by donating non-perishable food items.

Friends of the Star Branch Library are hosting a Book Sale for the week of April 14-19! Deals galore!

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!!

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

Star Senior Center 102 S. Main Street, 286-7943

April Calendar of Events

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

Are you a senior or know a senior in Star - Please Join us this month and meet old and new friends

April Activities: April 2: Goldmine Newsletter arrives April 4: Property tax reduction (circuit breaker) preparation, 9:30 a.m. – noon. Free April 4: Blood Pressure taken by Star’s firemen April 7: Walmart Shopping – Contact Bethe at 869-6288 April 9: Board Meeting April 11: Foot Clinic – Cost $25 – starts at 9 a.m.

April 15: $12 haircuts and doctor appointments – Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Contact Bethe @ 869-6288 April 16: Hearing Clinic – Free – Starts at 11 a.m.

April 16: Birthday Recognition April 16: Music by Nadine and Dale – starts at 11 a.m.

April 16 & 18: Foodless Food Sale – This is a fundraiser by filling eggs with dollars.

April 18: Easter hat contest – Cash prizes for woman’s pretty and ugliest hat and for man’s most unique hat.

April 21: Outing to a restaurant - Contact Bethe @ 869-6288 April 29: Outing to Horseshoe Bend Senior Center - Contact Bethe @ 869-6288 **The Star Senior Center is starting two new services haircuts and taking people to doctor appointments. This service will be on the third Tuesday of each month and the doctor appointments will need to be made between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The hair appointments will be made by the bus driver and will cost $12. The haircuts will be at Walmart on State Street and Glenwood. The individual will be responsible for making their own doctor appointments.

Unplug & Be Outside Day Thursday, April 24, 2014, 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.

Fit & Fun Field Games powered by FitOne and the BAM Jam 3 on 3 held at Star Elementary – 700 N Star Rd. A variety of game stations will be geared for kids ages 2 – 10 years, basketball games such as bump and lightning will be available for kids ages 8 – 12.

Please visit www.unplugandbeoutside.com for a full calendar listing of Unplug and Be Outside events around the valley.

Youth T-Ball & Baseball (ages 4-10) Games Saturday mornings, June 21 – August 9. $20 resident and $25 non-resident fee is due by April 25.

Spine Wellness May 7th at 6:30 p.m. – Star City Hall.

Sponsored by St. Luke’s – sign up at 286-7247.

St. Al’s Mammogram Unit 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., May 7th at Star City Hall.

Call 367-3571 to schedule appointment.

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

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

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.

April 2014 • PAGE 15

Make it a Hoppin’ busy April for business!!

April 3rd - First Thursday - OUT TO LUNCH at Star’s Pizza Hut 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

April 3rd - Ribbon Cutting new business members after the luncheon (12:50 p.m.)

April 17th - General Meeting/Educational Program 6 p.m. @ Star City Hall April 19th - Easter Eggstravaganza: Blake Park – 12-2 p.m.

Egg hunt, Easter Bunny, Live band and more. See flyer details at www.StarIdahoChamber.com CALLING ALL BUSINESSES! We need 10,000 EASTER EGGS: Please donate filled Easter eggs for the Star Chamber of Commerce Easter Egg Hunt for our 3rd Annual Easter Eggstravaganza. Filled eggs can be dropped off at Central Self Storage or 5 Star Second Hand Store @ Toon Town. Eggs may be filled with individually wrapped candies and your promo info and dropped off at the luncheon or no later than the General Meeting by April 17th. Community updates and Star Chamber emails will update egg counts for everyone, so stay tuned. Please give eggs in minimum batches of 100 egg lots. Thank you to all of the businesses who have already pledged donations.

Send pledges to president@staridahochamber.com REMEMBER THE WELCOME WAGON…CHAMBER MEMBER BUSINESSES, please take your April specials and business cards (100+) to 5 Star Second Hand Store in a bag or box. There are over 200 NEW families that want to know what you offer right here in Star, Idaho!!!

Classic Car lovers….The Mother’s Day Charity Car Show and Momz Garage are looking for volunteers for parking, registration, raffle booth and bounce house helpers!

208-908-5476 For additional information on upcoming chamber events, please visit www.StarIdahoChamber.com.

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

PAGE 16 • April 2014

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

April 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 New Mortgage Rules Protect Against Risky Loans

By Jason Alderman Good news for people shopping for a mortgage – and for current homeowners facing foreclosure because they can no longer afford their home loan: New mortgage regulations drafted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recently took effect and they provide a slew of new rights and protections for consumers.

One of the cornerstones of the new mortgage rules is that lenders now are required to evaluate whether borrowers can afford to repay a mortgage over the long term – that is, after the initial teaser rate has expired. Otherwise, the loan won't be considered what's now referred to as a "qualified mortgage."

Qualified mortgages are designed to help protect consumers from the kinds of risky loans that brought the housing market to its knees back in 2008. But obtaining that designation is also important to lenders because it will help protect them from lawsuits by borrowers who later prove unable to pay off their loans.

Under the new ability-to-pay rules, lenders now must assess – and document – multiple components of the borrower's financial state before offering a mortgage, including the borrower's income, savings and other assets, debt, employment status and credit history, as well as other anticipated mortgage-related costs.

Qualified mortgages must meet the following guidelines: • The term can't be longer than 30 years.

• Interest-only, negative amortization and balloon-payment loans aren't allowed.

• Loans over $100,000 can't have upfront points and fees that exceed 3 percent of the total loan amount.

• If the loan has an adjustable interest rate, the lender must ensure that the borrower qualifies at the fully indexed rate (the highest rate to which it might climb), versus the initial teaser rate.

• Generally, borrowers must have a total monthly debt-to-income ratio of 43 percent or less.

• Loans that are eligible to be bought,

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

guaranteed or insured by government agencies like Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Housing Administration are considered qualified mortgages until at least 2021, even if they don't meet all QM requirements.

Lenders may still issue mortgages that aren't qualified, provided they reasonably believe borrowers can repay – and have documentation to back up that assessment.

New, tougher regulations also apply to mortgage servicers – the companies responsible for collecting payments and managing customer service for the loan owners. For example, they now must: • Send borrowers clear monthly statements that show how payments are being credited, including a breakdown of payments by principal, interest, fees and escrow.

• Fix mistakes and respond to borrower inquiries promptly.

• Credit payments on the date received.

• Provide early notice to borrowers with adjustable-rate mortgages when their rate is about to change.

• Contact most borrowers by the time they are 36 days late with their payment.

• Inform borrowers who fall behind on mortgage payments of all available alternatives to foreclosure (e.g., payment deferment or loan modification).

With limited exceptions, mortgage servicers now cannot: initiate foreclosures until borrowers are more than 120 days delinquent (allowing time to apply for a loan modification or other alternative); start foreclosure proceedings while also working with a homeowner who has already submitted a complete application for help; or hold a foreclosure sale until all other alternatives have been considered.

For more details on the new mortgage rules, visit www.consumerfinance.gov/mortgage.

Bottom line: You should never enter into a mortgage (or other loan) you can't understand or afford. But it's nice to know that stronger regulations are now in place to help prevent another housing meltdown.

Jason Alderman directs Visa's financial education programs. To participate in a free, online Financial Literacy and Education Summit on April 2, 2014, go to www.practicalmoneyskills.com/summit2014.

LOCAL CLUBS LISTING is now on our website www.theindnews.com

Food Donation 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.

Star Senior Center participates in GoRide Vehicle Sharing Program Continued from page 1 In return, the Annual Donating member retains use of the vehicle for a prearranged number of days or evenings and may even borrow an additional GoRide Vehicle Sharing vehicle for use.

The other two levels of participation are: • Annual Participating Member, where an agency or organization does not have a vehicle to donate to the vehicle pool, but would still like to participate in sharing the available vehicles. An Annual Participating Member pays a monthly fee based on the number of days and the hours they would like to use the vehicle.

• Participating Member, where an agency or organization may not need a vehicle on a regular basis. Participating members can reserve a vehicle on a per-day cost based on the number of days and the miles they use the vehicle.

The Star Senior Center is currently using two vehicles from the Vehicle Sharing pool to

transport center members – a Dodge Caravan with a ramp conversion that accommodates persons using wheelchairs and walkers, and a small bus. The vehicles are used to transport members to grocery stores, restaurants, other senior centers and fun outings. One recent destination was the Boise Aquarium. One of the vehicles is also used to bring in meals to the center, which Dawson says has about 30 members.

Pederson said interest in the program is growing. Star Senior Center joins the Parma Senior Center as early participants. The Eagle Senior Center is in the process of joining the program.

The GoRide Vehicle Sharing Program is funded by federal grant monies and membership fees. To learn more about the program, visit www.gorideidaho.org or call David Pederson, VRT Mobility Manager, at dpederson@valleyregionaltransit.org or (208) 258-2725.

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

Over 15,000 copies 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

April 2014 • PAGE 17

Handyman transitions to Property Management Jim says, “I can’t overemphasize finding the

By Jennifer Anderson Jim Carew has been in the handyman busi- right people to rent a place, but also making sure that the property is up to snuff. I also ness for over 20 years tackling small remodel jobs and simple home repairs. Over the years want to have a good report with the tenants and be proactive in maintaining the properhe has found that much of his business ties.” comes from people getting ready to sell their It’s the relationship that Jim maintains homes. with the tenants and owners that The typical scenario would be a makes a difference. “I want the homeowner receiving their inspectenants to call me if there’s a tion report and needing a handful problem, and I like to walk of different repairs done, but not through with them to show them wanting to pay a separate service where the shut off valves are, fee to a plummer, electrician, where and how often to change roofer, and contractor. Jim was the filters, and other regular mainteperfect option: one service fee for nance items,” says Jim. He firmly multiple jobs. believes that instilling a sense of Over the years Jim came to realresponsibility for the property ize that his handyman service with the tenants is key. would translate well into the propBecause Carew Property erty management business. UnManagement is a smaller Jim Carew of like many property management Carew Property company they can afford to services, Jim does not have a backManagement charge cheaper rates, charging a ground in real estate. He has and 6% property management fee does own his own rental properties, but his main focus has been home repair where other companies charge 8-10%. Jim’s and maintenance. Jim feels this makes him a experience in handyman services also make repairs more cost effective. unique and perfect match for property manWhether it’s screening tenants, preparing agement. the house for rental, or maintaining a good Carew Property Management has three obrelationship with the renters and owners, jectives: achieve your investment objectives, increase cash flow, and preserve and maintain Carew Property Management does it’s best to exceed your expectations and maximize your the value of your property.

Jim meets these objectives through five key investment.

To reach Carew Property Management areas including agreessive advertising, tenant email carewrentals@yahoo.com, or visit their screening, timely rent collection, affordable website: carewrentals.com. maintenance, and thorough inspections.

Joe’s View Am I the only one weird enough to actually like spring cleaning? I really look forward to cleaning things out. Spring just happens to be an excuse.

However, your definition of spring cleaning and mine might not be the same. I am not talking about scrubbing floors, dusting, or washing and folding. No, I am talking about trying to lighten the household load. Getting rid of stuff.

Thinning.

More and more, I am enjoying spaces with nothing in them. The absence of a thing is a thing in itself. I have felt like there is just too much stuff around me for a while now.

There have been several layers of things peeled out of our household for different reasons. We moved to a smaller home a few years back and that alone necessitated a reduction in stuff. There have been some lifestyle and career changes and more layers came off. Children have left the house and again another layer is gone. But I do not think that we are “there” yet. We still have too much.

We seem to go through an acquisition period of our lives where we gather stuff up around us, climb to a materialistic point and flatten off, and then head the other direction –shedding as we go. A classic bell curve. For once, I am glad I am going downhill.

If you have been reading this column for any length of time, you know that our family likes to have an annual yard sale. It always amazes me how much stuff ends up out there on those

tables and it creates a time frame with a deadline to get things cleaned out.

We also give things away by putting them out in front of the house with a “FREE” sign on them or listing items on Craiglist. We donate things to several places that can use them.

Regardless of how we make it go away, it is gone. But is it missed? Sometimes. I have to be honest and say I have gone looking for a tool or a do-dad only to remember that I got rid of it a couple of years ago. For a brief moment I may regret that I got rid of it, but that feeling passes quickly when I realize how long ago it was.

So my mental justification for this reduction of material surroundings is that with less around us, there should be less that has to be taken care of, maintained, stored, cleaned, or concerned about right? I am coming to like my reoccurring answer of, “Yes, it does feel better to have less.”

With Spring Fever setting in, I feel more motivated than ever to reduce even more. It is not so much converting an item to cash, although it is nice when that happens, as it is to convert the space it occupied to being empty.

There lies my reward. With less in front of me to look at, I feel more at peace. Less stress.

Perhaps it is because I do not have to look at it and feel that something must be done with it.

Gone is gone, and that has value of its own.

Deciding when to let something go is the hard part. Fear and guilt is powerful and hard for a lot of people to deal with. When the time is right you will know it. If you are feeling “Stuffed,” try getting rid of something. You may like how it feels losing some weight.

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 to joe@joeprin.com. Podcasts of previous radio shows and columns are available at JoePrin.com.

Dreamhaven Ranch Spring Roundup Fundraiser April 26, 2014 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Dreamhaven Ranch will hold their 2014 Spring Roundup Fundraiser at 2641 N. Haven Dr. Eagle, ID. The fundraiser helps provide opportunities for children and their families to participate in a mentoring program in a safe rural environment where they can discover hope and healing by the grace of God and the unconditional love of a horse. Their motto is “Where horses abound, hope can be found!”

The event, which is open to everyone, will include a consignment tack sale/ranch decor and western wear, horse demonstrations by Darin Kendrick, concessions and bake sale items by

our wranglers and cowgirls, kids ranch roundup games, pictures with the mini horses, and a raffle and silent auction. Dreamhaven Ranch is a nonprofit group. For more information about the event contact Bette at 841-8582.

PAGE 18 • April 2014

WELLNESS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Spring into good health

By Kim Ingraham A wellness committee has formed through the city of Star over the past year, bringing some great Spring offerings. Hopefully, the dates/times work for you and your family.

The program is well supported by the progressive and positive vision of Mayor Mitchell and Star city councilmembers.

The programs offered are specifically designed to encourage residents to be more active, make better daily healthly choices and be proactive in their healthcare.

One way to improve over-all health for you and your family is to grow your own food.

Whether you have room to plant a ½ acre garden or simply want to make use of containers on your porch, there are excellent ways to be a successfully gardener. Come to the University of Idaho Master Gardeners Classes April 3 and 24th beginning at 6:30 p.m., Star City Hall. Call for details and to reserve your spot 286-7247.

Looking for something for the whole family? Track Tuesdays will be April 8May 20 from 6 – 7 p.m. FREE T-shirts will be given to those who complete the program.

Start walking, running, or skipping the Star Centennial Track at Star Elementary.

For health prevention, the Saint Alphonsus Mammogram unit will be in Star May 7th from 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at Star City Hall.

Stop making excuses and just get it done.

Also, the City of Star and St. Luke’s Health System are partnering to bring information to the community about a variety of health topics. Future seminars will be offered on a quarterly basis.

Back pain is a common occurrence for many of us. In fact, up to 80 percent of the adult population will experience episodes of back pain sometime in their life. While the majority of these episodes will resolve on their own, there are simple things that we can do to prevent or minimize them. Please join our spine experts to learn about common causes of back pain, what to do if you have back pain, and, most importantly, how to reduce your chances of having back pain.

Free to the public. Please email or call: Kim Ingraham 286-7247 to reserve your spot kingraham@staridaho.org Spine Wellness – May 7th at 6:30 p.m. at Star City Hall.

Need something fun and fit for your kids? Try Unplug and Be Outside Week. The series of free and reduced cost activities will inspire and empower families to get off the couch and get active!

The first activity will be Fit & Fun Field Games powered by FitOne & the BAM Jam 3 on 3 Basketball Tourney on Thursday, April 24, 2014 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at Star Elementary.

Fit & Fun Field Games are powered and organized by the staff of FitOne and the BAM Jam 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament – two fun, family-friendly events in the Treasure Valley.

A variety of game stations will be geared for kids ages 2 – 10 years, basketball games such as bump and lightning will be available for kids ages 8 – 12.

It is the committee’s hope that we can stay ahead of the obesity epidemic and help make Star a healthier place for all. We are excited to have the pleasure of working with so many affiliations that are truly concerned for the better health of this great community.

As always your input is valuable and we would love to hear any ideas for programming not offered that you might have.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

SPORTS

Player Spotlight: J.T. Williams #6 Eagle High School Varsity Baseball Shortstop/Relief Pitcher

By Paul Venosdel The Eagle High School Mustangs varsity baseball team wants a state championship this season. Led by third year varsity starting shortstop/relief pitcher J.T. Williams, the Mustangs are hungry to play ball. “We’re a young team with not a lot of return players but I think the young guys will definitely help us,” says Williams.

J.T. Williams is going to enjoy every moment of his senior baseball season. He is appreciative of his time with the Eagle High School varsity baseball team. “Coach Wright gave me a tremendous opportunity to play baseball at the varsity level my sophomore year and I’m truly thankful. I believe it made me a better overall player,” says J.T. The shortstop and relief pitcher isn’t too concerned with his statistics on the field.

“I really don’t pay much attention to my stats,” says a humble Williams. However, in his final season with the Mustangs one goal does remain for the senior – beat Skyler Souza’s record for stolen bases!

After graduating in May and doing some work umpiring youth baseball games this summer, J.T. will be headed to the University of Washington to play baseball. “It’s an awesome place,” smiles J.T. He will attend classes and begin a weightlifting program at the end of July on the UW campus.

Photo credit to Tim Williams

TRINA’S

Eagle High School senior J.T. Williams, is ready to enjoy every moment of Eagle High's varsity baseball season, and is hoping to top it off with a championship win.

J.T. joins a Huskies baseball program that has improved its facilities over the last three years. Husky Ballpark is a new 2,200 seat stadium with views of Lake Washington.

The new stadium cost approximately $15 million to construct and includes a new enhanced scoreboard with new field turf.

The Husky baseball program also added a new baseball team building which houses the locker room, coach’s offices, equipment room, training room and much more. The 9,000-square foot facility has received rave reviews from visitors, players, and staff.

The University of Washington baseball team is off to a 10-4-1 start this spring having won 6 in a row.

The road to Seattle to continue living out his baseball dream and getting a quality education was an exciting but one J.T. is thankful to have completed. “I’m glad the recruiting process is over. The whole thing is nerve racking, you never know for sure how things are going,” says Williams.

FITNESS CORNER To Salt or Not to Salt

Recently one of my family members suffered a heart attack.

He is recovering well, but has modified his diet, specifically his salt intake. The drastic reduction of sodium can be just as harmful as consuming large amounts of it. Too little can cause spasms, irregular heart rhythms, sudden death and even increase the risk of heart attack in hypertensive patients.

Understanding the role sodium plays in the body, and the difference between "good" and "bad" sources of sodium, will help you get the bad salt out of your diet while still satisfying your body’s need for a source of high quality sodium.

The FDA recommends 2500 mg. The Institute of Medicine recommends 1500 mg per day. However, according the CDC Americans from the age of 2 and up consume more than 3000 mg per day of sodium.

There is no question our bodies need salt. Salt is necessary to retain hydration, carry babies to term, regulate blood sugar, contribute to a healthy thyroid, act like an antihistamine, and help with sleep.

Understanding the different kinds of salt is worth exploring.

1. Table salt is sodium and chloride usually mined from rock salt or seawater. The other naturally occurring minerals are stripped from it and often sold to vitamin companies at a premium price. This refining results in a bitter taste, which is one reason for the fillers, including dextrose (good old corn sugar).

2. Sea salt is sodium chloride and ultimately came from a sea at some point, all salt is sea salt. The label “sea salt” is a marketing strategy to convince you to pay higher price for health food. White sea salt is no healthier than table salt.

3. Unrefined sea salt such as Himalayan salt, Celtic sea salt, and real salt have 84 different minerals in it, instead of TWO. Unrefined sea salt will be colorful, shades of pink, brown, or grey depending upon the source. We cannot deny that unrefined sea salt provides a natural balance of minerals that keeps us healthy instead of making us sick.

Give your body what it craves, and don’t be afraid to use salt when cooking. If you are eating real food (food that doesn’t require a label) you are probably not getting enough salt in your diet to begin with. Be sure to visit my website for more tips like these or follow me on facebook.

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

A proud mom of Kayla, Kasson, Violet, and Evelyn. Trina has more than 14 years of experience and a drive to help individuals find and succeed in their fitness goals. Visit Trina at http://crossfitstation.com

J.T. worked out at numerous baseball camps including the University of Washington. He was selected by the Kansas City Royals to participate in the Area Code Games in Long Beach, California and was invited for a workout with the Seattle Mariners organization last summer playing games on Safeco Field. Playing ball in front of Major League Baseball scouts and against other division one college talented prospects was a great learning experience. Other regions of the country are taking notice that Idaho is producing top quality baseball players.

“Idaho baseball has a great reputation, we play hard and scouts are impressed with our player’s work ethic,” says J.T. Watch the Mustangs chase a state title in key match-ups this season against Meridian, Centennial and Rocky Mountain live at the Eagle High School ball field. Senior citizens and elementary students tickets are $2, students with activity cards are $3 and adult tickets are $5. Follow all the Eagle High School varsity baseball team action this season at: http://eaglehighbaseball.com/schedules/ varsity/

April 2014 • PAGE 19

PAGE 20 • April 2014

OUTDOORS V<>L:”“RX

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Urban Farm Girl

V<>L:”“RX

“ChAnGe”

By Joanne M.W. Love This spring has delivered a palpable shift in autonomy at our house; in other words, a healthy dose of change. I approach the thought of change kicking and screaming as I enter it; I do not go gently into the night.

If I’m lucky, as I wade through it, I’ll stop pounding my fists long enough to discover opportunities for growth and wisdom.

The most glaring change this month was the sudden lack of transportation needs from my kids. For years the start of spring meant the beginning of temporary insanity from the constant juggling act between the schedules of three children. I had afternoons where I clocked mileage on my car equivalent to a trip to Pendleton. Games, practices, meetings and classes translated into a requisite amount of weekend hours, staring at my calendar, coordinating all the destinations and ETA’s. It made our kitchen feel like an air traffic control center.

On one of my busiest afternoons I literally performed a roadside handoff with a child like a baton in a relay, to a friend, who drove him the final stretch to practice. I then turned my car west to race another child to Caldwell.

Amidst the dinners in the car, the changing of clothes in the back seat, and an inordinate amount of time standing at the gas pump, I remember flopping into bed on these nights reassuring myself with the mantra, “enjoy this, it’s not going to last.”

Boy was I right. It ended abruptly this month, no warning, no easing into it…….. just cold turkey ended. I’m now merely the support staff; keeping the fridge full, laundry washed, and water bottles stocked in cars.

With two of three teenagers driving this spring, I’ve diagnosed myself with posttraumatic driving disorder. It peaks in the late afternoon around 4 p.m. when I find myself staring obsessively at the clock, wondering when everyone will be home, faced with the reality that I actually have the time to make

dinner now. Even our 13 year old needs me less as she finds it more adventurous to have her siblings pick her up. I have to say I don’t like this.

It’s this newfound free time that’s drawn my husband and I to linger in the barn when it’s 6 p.m. and still no sign of teenagers. A time in the evening that had otherwise been rush hour traffic at our house, is suddenly lending itself to the luxury of quietude and recently, to observation. My husband noticed a subtle difference in our oldest barn cat one evening. A difference that deteriorated quickly and by nightfall, it was obvious he was shutting down.

Arnold was the first cat we brought home when we built our barn eighteen years ago.

Everyone knows you can’t have a barn without a barn cat! Over the years, he’s taught endless barn cat additions how to be part of our barn family. In the barn cat world, I’m sure he was a self-proclaimed Lion King. He saw cats come and go at our barn….some from coyotes, some from cars, and even some from schlepping themselves into inferior indoor cats. He was an immaculate mouser, wanting nothing more than an occasional scratch…..but always on his terms. We tried coddling him as his weight and outside temperatures dropped by bringing him in the house, then trying the laundry room, then trying the garage. He would have none of it, howling the entire night until he was released to be a barn cat again.

We agreed that terrorizing him with a car trip to the vet would be cruel, and so we sat with him, curled in the straw. Even our dog, who’d spent her whole life terrorizing this cat, could sense something was different tonight and curled up beside him. With a horse leaning over watching him, a dog curled up next to him, and a grown woman crying and stroking him, he went gently into the night.

Although he was only a barn cat, it’s impossible to not give reverence to the honorable way he seemed to embrace the change that lay ahead. I could probably learn a lot from him.