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Delivering Community News to Eagle, Star & W. Ada County Volume 6 • Issue 6 The Independent News (TIN) thanks you for our continuing circulation growth Now 16,000 Households
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Jack Doerty, far left, with fellow pilots
JUNE 2015
www.theindnews.com
EVERYONE HAS A STORY: Eagle Veteran Spent 28-months as Korean Prisoner of War
By Philip A. Janquart It doesn’t seem that, after 62 years, Jack Doerty is any closer to forgetting that day in 1951 when the South Korean army division he was attached to was overrun by the Chinese. The Eagle resident, a former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, was assigned to the Republic of Korea’s (ROK) 3rd Corps, 9th Division as a ground-based Forward Air Controller (FAC) during the Korean War. It was a duty required of all pilots and intended to provide guidance to aircraft for close ground support, ensuring the attacks hit the intended target and not friendly troops. Inoperable radios, the language barrier and a quickly advancing Chinese offensive, however, prevented him from conducting a single air strike. “We’d been in a fire fight for five days, just trying to evade and escape because there was a small group of us,” he explained. “We had a plan, but we got split up. We got mortar fire on our position that took all the leaves off the plants where we thought we were hiding under. We tried to run and escape, but there was just a hillside full of the enemy.” Doerty, 88, says he remembers the moment he realized he was captured, recalling a tornado of emotions as the enemy surrounded him. “The feelings I had were both, ‘I’ll probably get killed in all of this, because I don’t have any ammunition left,’” he said, explaining the experience six decades later, with wide eyes. “But, I was also very shameful to have to surrender. It was a dual feeling that came over you. It comes over you like a flash; it’s not the way a fighter pilot, or any other soldier, wants to end up, putting his hands in the air. The awefulness and shame of being captured is impossible for me to relate.” Doerty spent his 23rd, 24th and 25th birthdays as a prisoner of war (POW), living in squalid conditions, forced to march long distances, starved and often suffering from dysentery that left him looking “like a skeleton.” “They treated us terrible and the starva-
tion started immediately,” he said. “The first meal was after two or three days. They took some form of boiled corn and dumped it on the ground for us, so we had to scoop it up out of the dirt, to eat it.” Unlike the nightmare stories of some former Vietnam POWs, Doerty, who made two unsuccessful attempts to escape, was not personally subjected to physical torture, but said that it did happen. “I had a close friend who ejected from his F-86 and the vertical stabilizer took his leg off at the knee,” he said. “He was captured and put with a group of Brits. They escaped, but he was left there and they (North Koreans) beat on his stump with a heavy stick, to make him tell where they had gone; he never told anyone, anything. He passed out time after time.” Coming Home An armistice, signed on July 27, 1953, ended the Korean War, but there was no excitement for Doerty who says he became increasingly anxious as his release date inched closer. “There was no jubilation,” he explained. “I wondered if this was really going to happen, but it did and we made it across. My father was on Gen. (Douglas) MacArthur’s staff in Japan at the time – he rode a motorcycle as a dispatch rider for Gen. (John “Black Jack”) Pershing in World War I. I was laying in a bed in an infirmary when he walked in. He heard that I had been released and
Honoring our Veterans at Eagle's Field of Honor
Mayors' Awards to Youth recipient, Coey Collard
Carolyn and Jack Doerty at home in Eagle
came over from Japan. It was a pretty great surprise.” Doerty stayed in the Air Force, eventually marrying his high school sweetheart, Carolyn, whose father was the storied aviator Tex Rankin. Rankin, in part, inspired Doerty to become a pilot in the first place. He attempted to get into the action as a fighter pilot during World War II, just after his high school graduation in Tulare, Calif., but his pilot training, first with the Air Force and then with the U.S. Navy, was cut short due to VE Day and VJ Day, depriving him of the opportunity. He spent a total of 28 years in the Air Force, playing a role in world events such as the Berlin airlift and the Cuban missile crises. He flew a variety of planes, including the AT-6 advanced trainer, the P-51 and the F-80, all during his third try at flight training, an unusual and coveted credential at the time. He docked one flight in the F-86 and flew an F-4 Phantom as a squadron commander during the 1960’s. He flew combat missions in Vietnam for one year, in 1966, before coming home and being assigned, for a time, to a desk job at the Pentagon. Doerty says he is proud of his service; that he fought for his country to preserve every American's right to live free and to be heard. "We really do live in the greatest country in the world, and we need to study the past to learn from its lessons," he said. "It's easy to forget what other people sacrificed but we should always keep that in mind."
Doerty poses outside the cockpit of his F-4 Phantom
Jack Doerty at age 7
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID EAGLE, IDAHO PERMIT NO. 60
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POSTAL PATRON LOCAL
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Boys and Girls Rugby Wrap-up pg. 18
Happy Father's Day from all of us at T he Independent News!
PAGE 2 • June 2015
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Flags Fly High, Proud at Eagle’s Field of Honor
By Philip A. Janquart Eagle’s annual Field of Honor opening ceremony was held Saturday, May 16 at Merrill Park. Despite dark clouds and wind, the ceremony successfully kicked off a 10-day grand display consisting of hundreds of flags representing military personnel, past and present, who contributed to the nation’s defense, helping to preserve freedom through their military service. “This field has wonderful memories for all of us,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Phil Hawkins (ret.), who led the invocation to start the ceremony. “Today is an opportunity to share those memories with those that we love, that we cherish and those that we care about because we live in a free country, and we can. We are so proud of all you WWII veterans. You saved this nation. You are our greatest generation.”
Volunteers worked Friday, May 15 placing flags at Merrill Park. Photo by Jack Floegel
The flags waving in the wind created an inspiring scene. Photo by Philip Russell-Gram
Hawkins, who served two tours in Vietnam and received two purple hearts, retired from the Army after 30 years of service. He asked to be recalled to fight the terrorists overseas following the Sept. 11 attacks on New York City. He was 60-years-old at the time and still pacing out 12-mile evening runs. He says his spirits were dashed, however, when he received a call from the Pentagon and was told he was too old. Today, he serves as the volunteer coordinator at Boise’s Veteran’s Home. The idea for a Field of Honor was first conceived by Paul Swenson, president of Colonial Flag in Sandy, Utah, whose “Healing Field” event was organized “as a way to visualize the sheer enormity of human loss that occurred in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001,” according to the Colonial Flag Foundation’s website. The idea, which ultimately evolved into what it is today, was introduced in Eagle nine years ago after former Eagle Mayor and business owner Nancy Merrill witnessed her first Field of Honor in Washington, D.C.
Merrill initially coordinated the opening ceremony, but volunteers and sisters Heather Paredes and Kathy Coburn, who have a personal stake in the event, have taken over those duties. “When Nancy left, there was no one to run it, to take it over, so my sister Kathy and I said, ‘we’ll do it!’” Paredes explained. “My dad was in the Navy and I love my freedom. That’s why I do it.” Paredes said the event would not have happened without the dozens of volunteers who helped with the flag display and event organization. Merrill attended the opening ceremony, along with Eagle City Council members Mark Butler and Jeff Kunz. Eagle Mayor Jim Reynolds addressed the crowd of veterans and their families, stressing the added significance of the event in helping to communicate the truth in the effort to educate future generations. “It’s a firm belief of mine that it would be impossible for us to navigate our future unless we understand our past, unless we study our past, unless we know it and not be diluted by those who would rewrite it,
because it’s a proud history and we need to understand that our youth don’t get the message as clearly as they might,” he said. Warhawk Air Museum Executive Director Sue Paul mimicked Reynolds’ sentiment. “All of our veterans are part of the fabric that covers our great nation, that protects us, keeps us safe and allows us to have the freedoms that we have today,” She said. When Japan attacked Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, these WWII veterans, who were 17-, 18-, 19-years old, without hesitation went to war to fight for our country’s freedom and our way of life. No one was going to take that from us.” Paul said history must be told accurately, citing a middle school student who took part in a class tour at the museum a few years ago. “I told the class how America entered World War II and a young man raised his hand and said, ‘I thought we bombed Japan and that’s how it started,’” she told The Independent. “Efforts like this (the Field of Honor) help to keep the story straight.” The museum’s planned fly-over, which would have included a Navy Trainer N3N Bi-Plane and a Spotter L-19 O-Bird, was grounded due to weather. For more information, log on to www. eaglefieldofhonor.org. To learn more about the Warhawk Air Museum in Nampa, log on to www.warhawkairmuseum.org., or call (208) 465-6446.
Volunteers placed flags in record time this year: just under 45 minutes. Photo by Jack Floegel
The USMC presented the colors while Keith Patrick sang The National Anthem. Photo by Philip Russell-Gram
Each flag recognizes a veteran and includes their name and branch of service. Photo by Jack Floegel
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
COMMUNIT Y
Coey Collard Earns Mayors’ Awards to Youth
By Mickie Park The 20th annual Mayor's’ Awards to Youth event was held on May 7th, 2015. There were over 70 students from Star, Eagle, Garden City, Kuna, Meridian and Boise that were honored and recognized by the city mayors. Coey Collard is an 8th grader at Eagle Middle School and lives in Star. At the age of 14, Coey has been through more than the average teen. In 2011, Coey was diagnosed with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Leukemia cells usually invade the blood fairly quickly so he started his 3 ½ year treatment plan right away. Within the first 9 months into therapy, his body had undergone so much trauma that it could not fight off his own natural bacterial and fungus which started shutting down his body. He was in the hospital for over 3 months in PICU; in November 2011 his body started fighting back and he was released to go home.
Star resident, Coey Collard, with his prestigious Mayors' Award
For the next 3 years, Coey went through 24 lumbar punctures, 3 bone marrow biopsies, countless MRI’s, Echocardiograms, and a double Achilles surgery. In June of 2014, Coey held a celebration party to announce that he kicked cancer. Throughout the last 4 years, Coey always continued to make education a high priority even when days were bad. He went to school in Middleton his first six years; the last two years he’s attended school in Eagle. His studies, his caring personality, his character, his tremendous attitude and his ability to rise above all his hardships has earned Coey the 2015 Star Mayors’ Awards to Youth.
Coey pictured with Mom, Jenny, and brother Caiden
Star Councilman Tom Erlbach (4th from left) looked on as Coey received his award
June 2015 • PAGE 3
PAGE 4 • June 2015
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Trees are the answer!
REAL SOCCER CLUB
YOUTH ACADEMY PROGRAM for U5-U9 players:
• U5-U6 - $25/season• U7-U8 - $35/season• U9 - $35/season Includes registration, club fees, and uniforms (except socks) Visit www.realsoccerclub.org/youthacademy for more information, age chart and online registration
COMPETITIVE TRYOUTS for U10-U14: Program Info and Cost: www.realsoccerclub.org (then click on the "programs" menu)
U10, U11, U12, U13 & U14 Boys & Girls Tryouts: June 1st & 2nd at Foote Park in Middleton Boys: 5:00-6:15 PM
Girls 6:30-7:45 PM
U15, U16, U17 & U18 Boys & Girls
Tryouts: Visit our web site after High School Soccer Season.
The Real Soccer Club believes in giving the most meaningful training environment to their players using age appropriate methodologies. The training philosophy in our youth academy is to emphasize technique, vision & awareness, individual & small sided tactical insight (principles of play), creativity, improvisation, coordination, socialization, and sportsmanship. U5-U9 Academy team coaches are guided by a professional Director of Coaching. Sound players who love the game, stay healthy, and perform their best are better prepared to potentially move to a more competitive environment starting at U10. To accomplish this is key to our success as a club.
Shop locally for your Father's Day gifts! Support your local economy.
By Mary Jane Marlow – Certified Arborist RM0465 Answer to what? Greening our way to water security is one timely answer. “Healthy urban forests are key to helping our growing cities and towns support their water resources,” according to the Alliance for Community Trees. Along with climate change comes drought, violent storms, flooding, etc.; a new normal for weather patterns. California is in a 4 year drought. Idaho is also low on water reserves and is looking to mediate future water shortages now. As you’ve heard many times, trees give back to our environment 24/7 in a myriad of ways. Actually, the benefits of trees to our environment worldwide seem endless, impossible to list completely. Here are but a few ways you may not have realized how trees are year round workers on our behalf. • Life-giving oxygen rises from their leaves. • Toxins absorbed by roots = cleaner water. Leaves trap pollens on the fly. • Car tops are cooled under their branches, including our heads. • Homes use less energy (15-35%) when a shady tree is nearby. • Kids play outside longer on tree-lined streets. • Hospital stays are shorter when views of trees frame the windows. • Trees increase property values up to 10%. Plant more trees! • Trees can help recharge our ground water (soaking up rain and storm water before it rushes down the street), functioning as “living” nonstructural storm water capturing machines! • Street trees reduce traffic speed/crashes due to a defined roadside edge.
• Street trees create more pleasant walking conditions. Businesses on treescaped streets show a 20% higher income = more city tax dollars. • Trees absorb the first 30% of most precipitation through their leaves. Up to 30% additional precipitation is absorbed into the ground and held onto then transpired later. Runoff/flooding is reduced = less drainage pipes. • Trees close to streets absorb 9 times more pollutants than more distant trees and lower temperatures by 3-7%. • Trees have a calming/healing effect on ADHD adults/teens. • Reduced road rage! Research shows road rage is less in green urban vs stark suburban areas. Trees can reduce blood pressure = calming effect. • Longer pavement life from 40-60% from California studies. National Arbor Day was observed in Idaho on the last Friday in April. Let’s don’t make it the last day you think about the silent sentinel in your yard, in our parks or on our streets. It’s hard not to take them for granted. They speak in ways we cannot hear and work in ways we still don’t understand because we have not studied them or learned from them. Be aware that trees will help us weather through climate change IF we plant enough of them quickly to make a difference. Planting strategically whether in your yard, street, community, agricultural field, along water ways, storm water basins, etc. will bring the help that only trees can provide. Only trees have the genetic structure to clean up our world. Trees are the answer.
References 22 Benefits of Urban Street Trees by Dan Burden 2006. ACTrees Urban Forest Issue Brief 2014
June 2015 • PAGE 5
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Councilman Ridgeway Jailed! ... for Muscular Dystrophy
By Philip A. Janquart Eagle City Councilman Stan Ridgeway took part in the Idaho Muscular Dystrophy Association’s “Lock-Up” event held at the Texas Roadhouse restaurant on Chinden on May 14. The annual event aims to raise money used to support families affected by the disease, typically called “MD.” “We raised about $30,000 last year, but we’ve already raised over $35,000 at this year’s event, and that number will go up by the end of the day,” said Idaho MDA Executive Director Autumn Hume. The disease is described as a group of diseases – about 43 different forms - that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass, caused by gene mutations that interfere with the production of proteins needed for muscle development. People with MD can lose the ability to walk and have trouble breathing or swallowing. Medications and therapy can help manage symptoms, but there is no cure, according to Hume. The MDA is also an advocacy and research organization for adults with ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurological disease that, like MD, causes muscle weakness and gradually impacts body functions. Ridgeway says he has witnessed the disease since childhood, his experiences prompting him to take part in the event. “It’s interesting: someone nominated me for this and MDA didn’t know I had any connection,” he said. “When I was about eightyears old, a new family bought the house next door to my parents. The great news is that they had two boys. I didn’t know at the time both boys, Robert and Ronnie, had muscular dystrophy.” Ridgeway said one of the boys fell and broke his knee when he was about 11, and never walked again. Both ended up using wheelchairs to get around and eventually began attending a “special school” where they
were “excluded from participating in school activities with other kids.” He said that, “their parents added a large special bedroom and accessible bath to their home so their sons could live at home. [They] made sure that both boys were able to attend activities but most … were not participatory but spectator activities.” Ridgeway, a Georgia native, said his dad would often go with the boys to Atlanta Braves baseball games, to help with the wheelchairs, and that they also attended Auburn University football games. He says inclusion for people with disabilities has come a long way since his childhood, but participation depends on people stepping up and providing financial support, in part, through annual events like the MDA Lock-Up. Ridgeway says his experience is not limited to childhood memories. “Before I retired in Alaska, I hired a CPA … and within a year he was diagnosed with MD,” he explained. “Two years later, he passed away. And then, here in Eagle, some friends of ours, their son was a deputy for the Ada County Sheriffs Office. He was diagnosed with it. Last year, I did an ice bucket challenge for him.” Hume said the money raised from the LockUp event funds its services and activities. “We like to provide help and hope,” she said. “We have a service program, clinics, a summer camp and a support group. One of the things that is really special about our summer camp is that it’s a place where kids with disabilities can come and just be kids. It’s not about their disabilities, but their abilities.” Hume said, however, that the camp is also about parents and siblings. “The overlooked part of the camp is the fact that it’s also a week of respite for parents,” she explained. “It’s a huge undertaking to care for kids who have disabilities, so they get a week of rest and maybe a chance to focus on other kids in the family, who might not get as much attention because of the energy that
goes into caring for a disabled child.” Hume says MDA anticipates over 50 kids attending the Quaker Hill Camp in McCall this summer, which is scheduled for about the second week of August. Finally, in its effort to help families, the MDA maintains a “loan closet,” which consists of donated medical equipment that can be loaned free of charge for as long it’s needed. The loan closet program also provides assistance of up to $500 for equipment repairs and modifications. “Norco actually maintains our loan closet and they donate $5,000 a year to MDA, so they do a lot for us,” Hume said. There are about 200 MD clinics around the country, including one in Boise that was located at the Elk’s Rehabilitation Hospital before its recent closure. The clinic, for now, is in transition but will be located at either St. Luke’s or St. Alphonsus Hospital. Ridgeway raised about $2,400 and was released Thursday evening. For more information on MD or how you can help support families affected by the disease, log on to www2.mda.org.
Eagle American Legion Names New Commander Post Readies for Flag Retirement Ceremony
By Philip A. Janquart Eagle’s American Legion Post 127 recently named John Juris new post commander. Juris, who was an American Legion member while living in California, moved to Eagle about a year ago. He says he began looking for a post here and was pleasantly surprised to find Eagle’s Post 127. “I’m just happy to contribute to the community, helping to support our veterans and showing them, and the community, what they can do to make the community better,” he said. Juris joined the U.S. Navy in 1968, retiring from military service in 1995. He spent nearly all of his 26 years as an aviation ordinanceman, loading bombs, missiles and guns on fighter aircraft on five different U.S. aircraft carriers. He served on the U.S.S. Enterprise, Constellation, Independence, Ranger and Midway. “You are just another airline unless you can drop ordinance,” he said. “I’m proud of what I did.” Juris has since spent much of his time volunteering through the American Legion. Founded in 1919, it has become the largest wartime veterans’ service organization in the nation. Part of its mission is a strong commitment to mentoring youth and sponsoring community programs that advocate patriotism and continued support to fellow veterans, according to its website. “I think it’s a way to remember our past,” said Eagle Mayor and Post 127 member Jim Reynolds. Reynolds served as an U.S. Air Force F-100 fighter pilot, flying combat missions over the jungles of Vietnam. He says the American Legion is a way to connect with, and to help support, fellow veterans. “For those of us who served in past wars, it was just something you did,” he explained.
“The country calls you to do it, and you go out and do it. The American Legion is great for following up with those guys who served.” Part of the support mechanisms the national organization provides include the Family Support Network, financial assistance, education, assistance for returning soldiers and many more. The American Legion is also one of the foremost contributors to the nation’s future, offering education, mentoring and sports programs for youth, which include American Legion baseball, Boys State, scouting, junior shooting sports, cadet law enforcement and others. “We like to help out the senior guys, let them know that we care and help them out with medical issues,” Juris said. “Sometimes guys have problems working with the VA Hospital, so we help them through the process, helping them get to the right places and get hold of the right people. It just makes things a little easier for them.” Retired Flags Every year, dozens of American flags are collected and disposed of through the American Legion’s flag retirement ceremony. Scheduled this year for June 13, at 10 a.m., the ceremony will involve the “respectful” disposal of over 150 out-of-service flags left at drop locations in Eagle. “Flags get used and worn, many of them frayed,” Juris explained. “We have three locations in Eagle where people can drop them off: Eagle City Hall, the Eagle Fire Station and a restaurant in the area. We collect them throughout the year and have a ceremony to dispose of them respectfully, going by the book of proper handling of the flag. We burn the flags and bury the ashes.” Juris says the ashes are buried at various locations, but usually at a “special place”
within a cemetery. Mayor Reynolds says he plans on attending the event. Eagle Fun Days Eagle’s Post 127 also participates in the Eagle Fun Days parade. This year the post has arranged for eight of Eagle’s World War II veterans to ride its float in honor of their service. “I think the World War II generation was pretty phenomenal,” Juris said. “It was a period where quality people were drafted into the military. My father served in the war. He didn’t have to, but he volunteered anyway. People knew what a terrible situation it was; the Nazis and others trying to force their ideologies on us, and many of them (American servicemen) paid the supreme sacrifice to protect us from that.” The Post’s next meeting is scheduled for September at the Eagle Sewer District building located at 44 N. Palmetto Ave. in Eagle. Anyone is welcome to attend. “We are always willing to take on new members,” Juris noted. For more information about the Eagle’s Post 127, contact John Juris at (559) 309-7145. Meridian's Charles Baines earned second place at the 2012 national oratorical contest, one of the many programs the American Legion offers to help develop the nation's youth. Baines was sponsored by Eagle's American Legion Post 127, earning a $16,000 scholarship for his oration titled, “Good Fences Make Good Neighbors” Photo by Tom Strattman
I want to congratulate all the men out there who are working diligently to be good fathers, whether they are stepfathers, or biological fathers or just spiritual fathers. ~ T. D. Jakes
PAGE 6 • June 2015
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
CIT Y OF EAGLE
Around Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . . By Mayor Jim Reynolds
As Eagle grows and develops, we regularly re-evaluate our Comprehensive Plan to determine whether we need to make changes. The plan generally lays out what areas we are allocating to single-family, multi-family, mixed use, commercial and industrial development. We are in the process of assembling citizens to evenly represent the various section of the city in the matter. Residential growth continues to dominate the landscape. As city planners know, we need a balance between residential, commercial and even industrial development to carry the burden of services to the community. It will be the job of this task force to determine where new commercial and appropriatelyclean industrial development might go. Although the Lazy J site is in Ada County, some of our citizens have been concerned with the discovery of asbestos on the property. Ryan Neptune’s Gateway Parks has been working with Ada County and the Environmental Protection Agency to carefully remove the asbestos from the site. Under the EPA’s careful eye, Ryan’s company has been keeping the asbestos wet to avoid any possibility of the offending material becoming airborne and hence, a potential danger to local residents. As of the end of April, all the asbestos has been removed from the site. The activity you may now see is an effort to remove non-hazardous materials that have been dumped on the site and buried over the years. The Eagle Arts Commission resigned after the City Council noted discrepancies in the execution of the City’s Request for Proposal to install murals on the underpass near the Hilton Garden Inn and between Eagle Nazarene Church and the Mace Development. The master scoring sheet to determine the
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winner of the $20,000 project had several significant scoring errors. Additionally, one entry was included for final consideration that had missed the deadline for project submission as specified in the RFP. By the time this goes to press, the City Council will have reviewed the entries and selected a winner or will have discarded the entire project for this year. In response to the sudden departure of the Arts Commission, Mike Aho and the Eagle Parks and Rec Department will be taking over the management of the Eagle Saturday Market. Vendor participation in the market has declined in favor of the much larger 8th Street Market in Boise. We will be looking for ways to energize this popular Saturday event. Another institution seriously in need of reinvention is the popular Eagle Fun Days. The skyrocketing cost of insurance for the parade itself, the cost of closing Eagle Road during the parade, the conflict between Eagle restaurants and street food vendors, and the cancellation of Eagle Fire Department’s “Nut Feed” have all dealt serious blows to the viability of the event. Imagine my surprise to learn the cost of “Rocky Mountain Oysters” (presumably a throw-away item) has escalated to the point to make the popular feed untenable. Moreover, the rollicking, beer-swilling, fun-loving, sometimes riotous attendees of the past have given way to the more familyfriendly participants of modern Nut Feeds. With that, the Fire Department realized a significant drop in revenues to the point that cancellation became inevitable. We are seeking input from Eagle citizens as to how we can reinvent both the Saturday Market and Eagle Fun Days. Please send your suggestions to me at jreynolds@cityofeagle .org or to maho@cityofeagle.org.
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 p.m. Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting 1st and 3rd Monday • 6:00 p.m.
Park and Pathways Development Commission 3rd Tuesday • 6:30 p.m.
Eagle Arts Commission Meeting 1st Tuesday, 6:30 p.m., Eagle City Hall
Eagle Sewer District Board Meeting 2nd Monday of the month • 6:00 p.m. District’s administration building 44 N. Palmetto Ave., Eagle, 939-0132 Eagle Historic Preservation Commission Meeting 2nd Wednesday, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Eagle Historical Museum (67 E. State St.) Eagle Government Relations Committee Meeting 4th Wednesday, 9-10 a.m., 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 a.m. Tuesday: Lunch & Pinochle at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday: Exercise at 9:00 a.m. Thursday: Lunch & Bingo at 12:00 p.m. Friday: Exercise at 9:00 a.m.
American Legion Eagle Post 127 meetings are held the 2nd Tuesday of each month, except for Jun - Aug. Time: 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. Place: Eagle Sewer District Building, 44 N Palmetto Ave in Eagle. Veterans welcome
CORRECTION:
In the May 2015 issue of the paper, the Day Trippin’ article was not properly attributed to its source. The information for the article was primarily gathered from the Idaho Power Fun Country brochure and should have been properly quoted and cited. A corrected version of the article can be found on our website, theindnews.com. *For all programs: Preregistration is required at www.cityofeagle.org/recreation
Detective Camp Monday-Friday, 6/22-6/26 Step into the shoes of a detective! Campers will learn to scrutinize a case by searching for and reviewing PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS: clues, collecting evidence, keeping case files, and solvSkyhawks Saturday Soccer ing mysteries. Fun games, projects, and speakers will Saturdays, June 20-August 1 be featured throughout the week. Location: Merrill Park. Join us for 6 weeks of Saturday morning soccer this Cost: $145. 6-10 yrs, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. summer. This program focuses on developing a love of ADULT PROGRAMS soccer through fun games and activities. Each child Summer Beach Volleyball League will receive a t-shirt. Location: Merrill Park. Cost: $60 Tuesdays, June 2-July 14 2-3 yrs, 9-9:45 a.m. • 3-4 yrs, 10-10:45 a.m. This 4 vs. 4 co-ed city league will include 7 weeks of 4-5 yrs, 11-11:45 a.m. games played on the sand courts at Eagle City Parks. Little Eagles Nature Camp This league will have no referees; teams will self-officiMonday-Thursday, June 29-July 2 ate. Competitive and recreational divisions available. This half day summer camp is a great introduction to Location: Merrill & Guerber Parks the wonders of nature and camp in an inviting, small Cost: $50/team; $10 player fee group setting. Each day of Little Eagles camp includes 16 yrs+, 6-9 p.m. a morning story, nature-themed art project, a trail trek Natural Home DIY Class and other exploration activities. Location: Merrill Park. Tuesday, June 30 Cost: $52, 3-5 yrs, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Often we associate “going green” with a major exYOUTH PROGRAMS pense or sacrificing quality in order to be non-toxic and Skyhawks Multi-Sport Camp environmentally friendly. Come learn how to make Monday-Thursday, June 8-June 11 your own all natural, non-toxic laundry soap and dishSkyhawks multisport camp is designed to introduce washer detergent the affordable way! You will learn athletes to a variety of different sports in one setting. about common harmful ingredients and their alternaFor this program we combine basketball, soccer and tives, and will go home with fun new products. football into one fun-filled week. Location: Merrill Park. Location: Eagle Senior Center Cost: $110. 6-9 yrs, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $20/person or 2 for $35 Survivor Camp 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, June 15-19 FAMILY PROGRAMS Could you survive in the woods without access to the Gazebo Concert Series grocery store, shelter or technology? Campers will acThursday, June 25 quire the skills to thrive in the wilderness, including The Gazebo Concert Series is a free concert series on archery, fishing, shelter-building, camp cooking and the last Thursday of the month, May-September. map reading. Outdoor games, crafts and fun guests Bring a blanket and a picnic, or enjoy food from Eagle will all be part of the week. Location: Merrill Park businesses. June will feature singer/songwriter Cost: $145. 6-10 yrs, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Jospeh Lyle. Location: Heritage Park. Free! 6-9 p.m.
Pub House Press, Inc. dba The Independent News © 2015
Publisher/Editor Melissa Upton PO Box 166 Graphic Designer Mary Shaw Star, ID 83669 Printer Owyhee Publishing (208) 550-3111 Advertising Randy Miskimon (208)794-6858 theindnews.story@gmail.com Reporters Phil Janquart, Mickie Park
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June 15, 2015
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 Melissa Upton, Publisher.
June 2015 Contributors:
Gretchen Anderson, Patrick Calley, Norma Dawson, Anna Eaton-Merkle, Jack Floegel, Rita Gambino, Cathy Hardy, Kim Ingraham, Philip Janquart, Jon Keithley, Trina Kubitchek, Kyle Kurscheidt, Joy Lear, Joanne M.W. Love, Mary Jane Marlow, Mike Olsen, Mickie Park, Joe Prin, James Reynolds, Philip Russell-Gram, Caitlin Straubinger, Tamara Sullivan-Watson, Loni Trude, Denice Van Doren, Tom Wick Press Release 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.
Letters to the Editor Policy
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 166, Star, ID 83669.
w w w. t h e i n d n e w s . c o m
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
EAGLE LIBRARY June Events
The Briefing
Wednesday, June 10, 17, 24 Monday, June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Teen Advisory Board (TAB): 4:15 p.m. Baby Readers: 10:30 a.m. (birth – 18 months) Stories, songs, and fingerplays for babies and their (teens 14+) Earn volunteer hours, socialize with your peers, and help your Library! caregivers. Wednesday, June 3, 10, 17, 24 Monday, June 1*, 8, 15, 22, 29 Pajama Story Time: 7:00 p.m. (3 – 8 years) Knee Deep in LEGOS™: 2:00 p.m. (ages 6+) Come in your pajamas for stories, songs, a craft, *June 1 at 4:00 p.m. and a bedtime snack. Weekly program for children ages 6 – 12 to use Thursday, June 4, 11, 18, 25 their creativity in building/designing with LEGOS. Preschool Story Time: 10:30 a.m. (3 – 5 years) Tuesday, June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Stories, songs, and crafts with an emphasis on Toddler Time: 10:30 a.m. (18 months – 3 years) school-readiness skills. Stories, songs, and crafts for toddlers and their Friday, June 5, 12, 19, 26 caregivers. Ready, Set, School! 10:30 a.m. (3 – 5 years) Tuesday, June 9 Stories, songs, and crafts, with an emphasis on Alzheimer’s Support Group: 2:00 p.m. (adults) school-readiness skills. Co-sponsored with Alzheimer’s Association Greater Friday, June 5, 19 Idaho Chapter, the Eagle Public Library offers Nutty Knitters of Eagle Public Library: 10:00 support for individuals and families whose a.m. (adults) lives are touched by Alzheimer’s. Local knitters and crocheters provide infant, youth, Wednesday, June 3, 10, 17, 24 and adult knit products for those in need. Join Music & Movement: 10:30 a.m. (birth – 5 years) them to knit for charity, or to make friends with Early literacy skills are built through rhythm and people with common interests. Or, if you want to motion in this interactive program for young chillearn to knit, stop by; you’ll receive a lot of free addren and their caregivers. vice. If you don’t want to knit but would like to Wednesday, June 3, 10, 17, 24 help, the Nutty Knitters will gladly accept donations Tales to Tails: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. (ages 5+) of yarn, which may be left at the Library’s front Increase your reading ability and confidence by desk. For more information, visit the knitter’s reading to man’s best friend from Helping Idaho website: nuttyknitters.weebly.com. Dogs. Registration is required; contact the Youth Saturday, June 6, 13, 20, 27 Services staff at 939-6814, ext. 113. Saturday Stories & Music: 10:30 a.m. (2 – 6 years) Children will build language and literSummer Reading acy skills through books, songs, rhymes, and will run from Monday, June 1 movement activities. through Saturday, August 1
What makes the community we live in so great…? There are so many things that it would be tough to find an ending spot. The start is easy. Serving as the Police Chief, I will start with Eagle’s low crime rate. The Ada County Sheriff’s Crime Analysis unit has completed year end reports for 2014. Those numbers indicate that the Treasure Valley has low crime rates. We are fortunate in Eagle to have low numbers in a low number grouping. Those numbers and results do not come without efforts on everyone’s behalf. Sir Robert Peal is often associated with the 9 Principles of Policing. There are others that some researchers say helped formulate these principles in the London Metropolitan Police Department in the early 1800s. These principles are alive in our community. That is why we enjoy the quality of life we do. Principle 1 “The basic mission for which the police exist is to prevent crime and disorder” Principle 2 “The ability of the police to perform their duties is dependent upon public approval of police actions Principle 3 “Police must secure the willing cooperation of the public in voluntary observance of the law to be able to secure and maintain the respect of the public.” Principle 4 “The degree of cooperation of the public that can be secured diminishes proportionately to the necessity of the use of physical force.” Principle 5 “Police seek and preserve public favor not by catering to the public opinion but by constantly demonstrating absolute impartial service to the law.”
~~~~~~~~~~~ ON-GOING PROGRAMS ~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~ SPECIAL PROGRAMS ~~~~~~~~~~~
Thursday, June 4 Matinee Movie: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) Alpha and Omega 3: The Great Wolf Games Your 24/7 Library: 2:00 p.m. (adults) Learn to access your library's digital collection anytime, anywhere. Download free e-books & e-magazines. Saturday, June 6 Make a Minion: 2:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Create your own Despicable Me minion out of polymer clay. Monday, June 8 CD Art: 4:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Recycle old CDs into a mosaic, a suncatcher, or wall art. Tuesday, June 9 Wind Chime Craft: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) You’ll capture the sound of the summer breeze when you create a chime with bells and beads. Wednesday, June 10 Super Hero Day! 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) Join us for everything Super Hero – games, science and crafts! Be the envy of all your friends and dress as your favorite super hero! Wednesday, June 10, 24 Eagle Writer’s Group: 6:30 p.m. (adults) Author Priscilla Stone presents a series of classes on memoir writing, using a balance of lecture, writing exercises, and feedback. Thursday, June 11 Matinee Movie: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) The Pirate Fairy Second Thursday Book Club: 6:30 p.m. (adult) Come In and Cover Me Friday, June 12 Cupcake Wars: 1:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Use your decorating skills (or lack of them) and battle to have your cupcake declared “The Worst Cupcake in Eagle Public Library’s History!” Monday, June 15 Popcorn and a Movie: 4:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Take it easy and escape from the heat. Relax, enjoy popcorn and soda, and watch The Incredibles. Tuesday, June 16 Father’s Day Gift: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) A turtle, a flag, a lady bug … anything you want. It’s your chance to paint a rock and give it to Dad for Father’s Day. Wednesday, June 17 Super Hero Social Skills: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) Presented by the Treasure Valley Children’s Theater, Super Hero Social Skills is a play about two super heroes in training who learn a valuable lesson about being respectful to people. Participate in this show, and you’ll be amazed at all you’ll learn. Thursday, June I8 Seed Saving Basics: 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. (adults) Casey O’Leary demonstrates seed saving from our favorite plants. Learn to save seeds from what you grow from the Library’s seed collection
June 2015 • PAGE 7
CIT Y OF EAGLE
– it’s the perfect way to ensure that we will have the same varieties available next year. Matinee Movie: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) Paddington Friday, June 19 Teen Open Play Board Games: 1:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Bring a game, or check one out from the Library’s collection. You may just find your greatest competitor. Join us on the Library’s patio. Saturday, June 20 Saturday Creations: 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. (adult) Zentangle! Want to increase your focus and creativity? Learn the art of Zentangle with Cookie Sorge. It’s fast, fun, and relaxing! Monday, June 22 Teen Encore: 4:00 (middle/high school) You don’t have to be able to sing on-key or on-tempo in order to show-off all you know about songs! Tuesday, June 23 Picasso for Kids: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) It’s all things Pablo Picasso! Learn about the artist, his major works, and have the chance to create your own piece of art in one of his styles. Wednesday, June 24 “Heroes, Heroines and Mostly Happy Endings” 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) Chris Leebrick, award-winning performer, will wow us with his stories and music. Thursday, June 25 Matinee Movie: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) 101 Dalmations Getting to Know Your Android Tablet: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) Get the most out of your Android tablet. Friday, June 26 Monty Python and the Holy Grail: 1:00 p.m. (middle/ high school) View this classic movie, enjoy a snack, and learn more about the movie than any one person should know! Saturday, June 27th Saturday Creations: 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. (adult) Leaf Imprinted Clay Jewelry Holder. Combine nature and clay and make your very own jewelry holder. Monday, June 29 Teen’s American Celebration: 4:00 p.m. (middle/ high school) Celebrate the 239th anniversary of American’s Declaration of Independence with this festive celebration of food and games Tuesday, June 30 Teens Present … Tall Tales: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) Eagle teens will present an entertaining tall tales program for elementary school kids. You won’t want to miss this – it will be the highlight of the summer!
www.eaglepubliclibrary.org
with Chief Calley
Principle 6 “Police use physical force to the extent necessary to secure observance of the law or to restore order only when the exercise of persuasion, advice and warning is found to be insufficient.” Principle 7 “Police, at all times, should maintain a relationship with the public that gives reality to the historic tradition that the police are the public and the public are the police; the police being only members of the public who are paid to give full-time attention to duties which are incumbent on every citizen in the interests of community welfare and existence.” Principle 8 “Police should always direct their action strictly towards their functions and never appear to usurp the powers of the judiciary.” Principle 9 “The test of police efficiency is the absence of crime and disorder, not the visible evidence of police action in dealing with it.” In our time shared in future articles, each Policing Principle will be highlighted as to how this works in our great community.
To learn more about the
Eagle Chamber of Commerce: www.eaglechamber.com. The chamber is active in the community and proactive in helping business members network and better achieve their goals.
PAGE 8 • April 2015
PEOPLE
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
He Said - She Said
By Joe Prin and Gretchen Anderson
Gretchen: Though some women drive them, I can confidently say there are a lot of women who don’t especially like sports cars, or sportier cars. The disdain lies in the design of the driver’s and passenger’s seats. They are engineered as if you are in a cockpit. Getting into the car is not so bad. But, getting out, is another story. The struggle is real. In addition to needing to grab onto something for leverage, or searching for a hand out or a boost up, anyone on the other side of the door will get treated to a crotch shot. There is no hiding it. I have tried to exit the car without the peep show—it’s impossible. Anyone have one of those hospital modestly drapes that I could borrow? I’m a woman who is fond of wearing dresses and skirts. But when Mr. Man offers to take me somewhere, I’m all, “Hold up honey. I need to go throw on some dungarees.” Joe: I hate to admit this but from what I get in chatter with the boys, we don't like them either! ... but we NEED sports cars and I'll explain why. I have a 1968 Mustang. Not so much a sports car because of the two seat rule, but it can haul my golf clubs and golf is a sport. Reaching? Anyway, it's all I drive. It is a horrible car. The brakes stink, it is way too powerful for rational driving requirements, no power steering, no power windows, no power locks, no power seats, the wipers are either on or off, it wanders down the road like a drunken sailor, and we do not discuss mileage. In fact...my personal thanks to those who drive a Prius for making sure I have enough fuel. And then at a crosswalk, you get that thumbs up from some kid or a smile from the "ladies" out jogging. Makes it all worth it. These cars are special to us. We can work on them, and we bond with them. It must fulfill some Cave Man DNA we have in us. "Look what I killed and drug home! It’s called a Miata!” Boys NEED toys. Gretchen: Wake up, Joe! There are more important things in life, you … you, Mr. Man wannabe. Do not get me started on the “boy toys.” I know you and my terrific husband have a need for those "thumbs up” and smiles from adoring fans, but the women who live with you aren’t giving you those thumbs up, or smiles. I'll bet my monthly column salary that your sweet wife, Vicki, avoids riding in that sweet ol’ thang most of the time. She probably freezes in it in the winter, and it’s a sweatbox in the summer. "No thanks,” I can hear her shout from your house to the Eagle Public Library. Here’s the clue: when y’all go out for a date night or to run errands, you take HER car. Right? In her car the heat and AC systems work and no one is getting a crotch shot as you exit the car.
Joe: You are right***. She does not like the car. It is loud and shakes at idle. Even though she had one just like it all through high school and it was our first car after getting married! I think the hot vinyl seats that leave second-degree burns on the backside of her legs in the summer has something to do with it. And then she throws the “Safety Card” up in my face. My response is that if you have skill and can drive the thing the way it should be driven, how the car takes an impact should not come into play. Tighten up the seat belts and hang on. But there is another element. These cars that us Men Folk can play with are a form of therapy. Now right here, I am about to get into trouble and I know it. But I will continue... Women usually modify us Men. To be married for any length of time we have to get good at apologizing and saying, “You are right”. Cars let us do the modifying. We like this. It makes us feel we have something to offer. Gretchen: So, you’re saying, it’s a tradeoff? You are arguing that you either have to pay an expensive therapist or drive a (dare I say) impractical sports car in order to be MARRIED?? Really? Wouldn’t a nice, 90-minute massage be more a practical, safer and more enjoyable way to “M-O-D-I-F-Y”? I don’t want to begrudge you, my husband or any other man his “need” to drive a sports car. I just wish Mr. Man’s car had a good ol’ fashioned, bench seat…something tantamount to a church pew, but with more cushion. (Wait, did I just describe his old farm truck, “Chuck”? The one I’ve been lobbying him to get rid of for Y-E-A-R-S?) In any case, with a comfortable bench seat, I could wear my skirts and we could go merrily along … “modifying” our way down the road. Joe: So if I am hearing you right, you are Jealous. J-E-A-L-O-U-S. You are upset that we spend time with something other than you. We spend time thinking about the car. We even buy the car presents. Well, put on the Big Girl pants and hop in (don’t burn yourself), because here is the secret. You should be glad we have these stupid things. You are much safer with us in the garage, under the hood, working on the car than out in the world looking for trouble. See, we look at it as an honor when you go for a ride with us. We really want to be seen with YOU! You complete the package. Get it? We need YOU and the CAR! Don’t take that away from us! Gretchen: Oh, Joe. You should have just said all those things in the first place.
©June 2015 Gretchen Anderson. Gretchen Anderson is an award-winning writer and author of “The Backyard Chicken Fight.” It is available on Amazon. Contact Gretchen at gretchen.anderson@me.com.
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.
Joe and Gretchen have been friends for nearly three decades. They have known each other since his days at BMC West and her days at KTVB. Between the two, they have 57 combined years of successful marriage.
Hitmaker Andy Grammer to Headline Children’s Cancer Fundraiser Meridian-- His song, Honey, I’m Good is screaming up the charts and all over the radio. Andy Grammer is about as hot as they come and he’s coming to Idaho to perform at Baldapalooza. Andy will headline the 3rd annual family friendly music festival that raises money to help Idaho’s children who are battling cancer. We are also thrilled to announce we will be holding Balda on the grounds of Scentsy’s headquarters on August 29th. It is an absolutely stunning campus that can
Children Battling Cancer to Be Guests
hold up to 5500 guests. Gates open at 5 p.m. Tickets and more information are available on our website: www.baldapalooza.org. This year, we are once again joining forces with Camp Rainbow Gold. They’ve been around for 30 years and not only do they take Idaho’s cancer children and their families away for camps, they also give out scholarships and host year round activities to ease the pain and grinding stress. As the mom of a toddler currently undergoing Chemotherapy put it, “the Oncologists work to save my
son’s life, Camp Rainbow Gold saves our spirits!” The aim is to make Baldapalooza an experience, not just another concert. One of the unique things we are doing this year is for every person who buys a VIP ticket; the package will also include a pass for a child with cancer. The VIP and the child will then
be paired up and get to meet Andy Grammer together. General admission tickets are $25 in advance. 12 and under pay $12.50 and VIP packages are $100. Contact: Lonni Leavitt-Barker 208.319.6277, lonleavittbarker@gmail.com.
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
A Teacher’s
EDUCATION
Perspective
GARDENING IN THE VILLAGE
By Anna Eaton-Merkle You have all heard the saying, “It takes a village.” We usually think of this in regard to raising children and I would have to agree. But here is a little known fact about that village – it can also be pretty amazing to those of us grownups who also need a hand. My husband recently returned home after working and living in another country for the past three and a half years. Granted, the country was Canada and not Saudi Arabia or something, so he was able to visit fairly regularly. And granted, I have been a homeowner for more than 20 years, so there should have been a great deal that I was already familiar with in regard to running the homestead. But the fact is, while I had a handle on grocery shopping, flower gardening, and inside décor, there was very little about the household maintenance previously left for my husband that I understood. For some things it was easy to make an excuse. He had always paid the bills. I am a school teacher, therefore I don’t deal with money. So when I had to begin paying monthly utilities and I realized that I had no idea what a “normal” electricity bill should look like, I had to do my research. A few calls to Idaho Power, comparative conversations with my sister and the people I work with, and presto – problem solved. I even evolved us into the 21st century and began paying my bills online. I almost hurt my arm patting myself on the back. Then came the sacred domain of manliness … the yard. Clearly, I didn’t foresee this as ever being an issue, or I would have paid considerably more attention to exactly what it was he was doing outside all that time. But I had to come clean, and it was embarrassing to admit that I had no idea how to start the riding lawnmower, turn the sprinklers on or change the line on the weed-wacker. I spent that first summer under the patient tutelage of my fantastic neighborhood husbands, who while they may have been chuckling to each other when I wasn’t around, were always gracious and helpful to my face. Through a lot of trial and error, we got my lawnmower going. I learned how to “prime” the leaf blower rather than dislocate my shoulder trying to bully it into life. I never really learned how to change the line on my weedwacker, but I did get the name of a nice old gentleman in downtown Eagle who will do it for me for a nominal fee. I learned how to use the chainsaw safely, and then I learned that the safest way of all is to let my neighbor saw the big stuff for me. As I progressed into what I felt was a gardening virtuoso (who needs a man around anyway?), I learned what was perhaps the greatest lesson of all – humility. I had recently cleared a bunch
of weeds on a berm between the border of my house and my neighbor directly to the south. It seemed a little bare and I had a vision of beautiful wildflowers growing there. Because I felt ready to tackle anything by this time (this was my second summer of doing my own yard), I had no qualms about sifting through the garage, rolling out the rototiller, “priming” it, and firing it up. In fact, I was pretty proud that I had managed all of those things on my own for once. It was running smoothly – at least as smoothly as one would expect from a rototiller – and the fluffy dirt was flying in a graceful arc through the air. Wait. It was the flying dirt that gave me a clue something might be remiss. While I had never actually tilled anything myself, I had seen it done, and didn’t remember a plume of dirt spraying off to the right. I didn’t see my neighbor anywhere, but there was a guy in his driveway helping him do something with his chipper shredder. By this point, I wasn’t afraid to seek direction from anyone who looked like they might know their way around lawn implements. “Hey – do you know anything about rototillers? Why is the dirt spraying up in the air like this?” “I don’t know much. But I know that that isn’t a rototiller. It’s a snow blower.” He could barely get the words out and felt no need to keep from laughing out loud. Ouch. I never knew that guy’s name. I can only imagine the conversation he had with my neighbor in the following few minutes. And I never had before noticed that those fancy machines seldom had obvious labels like “rototiller” or “snow blower.” No – marketing geniuses everywhere think those would be waaaaaay too obvious, so they call them “weasels” or “yard king” or “tornados”. It is a conspiracy. Thankfully, my amazing yard maestro is home for good and snow blowers everywhere are safe. On a happy note – I did NOT completely destroy the snow blower. It has worked well the few times I have had occasion to use it for its actual purpose. But I would like to thank the village of husbands in my neighborhood for taking care of me these past few years. Shout out to Hank for not questioning why a grown woman didn’t know how to start a lawnmower, to Brian for fixing the equipment I broke and for lending me his equipment when mine was no longer fixable, to Keith for countless consultations through the hedge and for still trusting me enough to loan me his little tractor, and finally to Mitch, who is brave enough to allow me to operate a chainsaw within striking range, who is much better at removing snow than I am, and who has taught me what most of things in the garage are for. Couldn’t have survived without you.
Anna Eaton-Merkle lives in Eagle and teaches English to seniors and sophomores at Eagle High School. Her writing can also be found on her blog www.thinkinginthemargins.com. She is currently working on publishing a collection of essays and children’s books.
June 2015 • PAGE 9
PAGE 10 • June 2015
THE ARTS
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Gray Mountain: An Exciting Legal Thriller
By Tom Wick After the 2008 collapse of the 160 year old famed Lehman Brothers, the dominoes of industry begin to fall. Scully & Pershing “the biggest law firm in the world” topples and provides a furlough to young associates like Samantha Kofer. The associates can retain their benefits, without pay, if they agree to provide pro-bono work for a nonprofit organization. Basically, Samantha “gets the chance to leave New York City, move to the boondocks of Virginia, and work the next twelve months free.” John Grisham’s latest novel, Gray Mountain, focuses on the transition of the young lawyer from making $180,000 a year in fastpaced New York City to working with $40,000 lawyers in a rural setting: forty thousand dollar lawyers who know much more about the law and justice than she would ever have learned on the top floors of prestigious firms. The strength of Grisham’s novels lies in the dialogue. Characters speak as if speaking to you and with you. Fast-paced, Gray Mountain, layers on intrigue one chapter after another. Having grown up in a wealthy family and only known a life of wealth, Samantha soon learns the struggle of living paycheck to paycheck…and squander. She made in three years what miners would make in thirty. She realizes fast the hard life of budgeting when it hits her that she only saved $31,000. The people in Brady, Virginia make enough for rent, food, “and probably spending $500 a month on cigarettes and who knows how much on beer. If there’s ever a spare dollar, they probably buy lottery tickets.” Unwise spending creates a culture of debt. Workers become debtors and the laws don’t
favor debtors in Brady. Samantha questions the appalling laws and their legality. One of her first clients, Stocky, has a speeding fine of $175. The county outsources the billing to a contractor who begins assessing monthly service and other fees. Stocky’s tab soon reaches $600. Unable to pay, Stocky lands in jail while still accruing those monthly fees. “This can’t be legal,” Samantha states. “It’s legal because it’s not illegal.” Now the stage is set. Samantha, once fighting for the big guys, now fights for the little guys. A new case brings her and the firm against a huge mining company and their billion dollar insurance company. Justice sways back and forth sometimes hanging on a mere memo. And in typical, exciting Grisham fashion, that memo “is tucked away somewhere in twenty thousand documents in a bunch of boxes.” Grisham brings you into the tension. You become familiar with the legalese and acronyms. You’re told a case “bounced back and forth between the ALJ and the BRB for five years before a final ruling.” The frustration peaks with threats and intrigue. Gray Mountain is a worthy addition to the canon of John Grisham and spent several weeks on the New York Times Best Sellers list. If you’re new to Grisham, I recommend reading Gray Mountain and also The Associate (2009) which features a lawyer working for Scully & Pershing before its fall in this story.
Emmett Valley of Plenty Quilters 2015
32nd Annual Quilt Show
will be showcasing their creations at the Cherry Festival - June 18, 19, and 20th. Emmett Valley of Plenty Quilters is inviting all quilters to display their quilts. Deadline for all entries is June 10, 2015. For entry information, please contact Linda Lawson at: lindalawson103@aol.com or call (208) 365-4122 or (208) 440-4122
Scenes from May’s Patio Party
Artist discusses his paintings.
Porterhouse Meat Market provided free food tastings. Carolee’s famous Artichoke dip was a fan favorite. Joe Mamma’s Breakfast Eatery and Olive and Vyne also provided free food for the party goers.
Kent Parsons Band playing for the Patio Party.
Grant from Edwards Jones mans the antique slot machine used for promotional giveaways. This lucky lady won a discount from Olive and Vyne specialty Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars.
Patrons enjoy the various artists at the Patio Party.
An artist talks about her work showcasing Idaho’s livestock and scenic byways.
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Uncork Your Creativity
By Mickie Park Uncork Your Creativity is a fun-filled evening of painting, wine tasting and camaraderie. Located at Edgewood Spring Creek Eagle Island Clubhouse, the class is open to the public and is offered to all levels of painters, including those who have never before painted. The paint, brushes and mats are all included along with a complimentary glass of wine. Each month a new project is featured; the best part is you get to take your art work home at the end of the evening. Cindy Barsness of Edgewood Spring Creek started the class earlier this year for the local seniors and their family members, but decided it was such a fun event that they would open it to the public. It is held every month on the 3rd Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Instructing the class is Award Winning local artist Nancy Hunter. Space is limited to 20 people, so reservations are recommended. Please call Cindy at 939-6499 to reserve your spot at the next Uncork Your Creativity Paint and Take Class. Edgewood communities are located in Eagle and throughout the Treasure Valley. These communities create a welcoming home environment where residents, employees and family members are part of a unique neighborhood with a long list of amenities, including special programs like Uncork Your Creativity.
THE ARTS
June 2015 • PAGE 11
Cindy Barsness, Spring Creek Director, and Award-Winning local artist, Nancy Hunter, offer Uncork Your Creativity
New friends Connie and Emily worked closely together on April’s featured project, “Awaiting Summer”
Mark your calendars for the next
Uncork Your Creativity class
June 17th from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Cindy at 939-6499.
3rd Wednesday of month family and friends all join together for an evening of painting and great company
The Independent News can be found Star: at these and other locations: • Star Library • Star Merc • Star Café Eagle: Meridian: • Albertsons • Burger Den • Fred Meyer, Linder at Chinden • Busters • Big O • Eagle City Hall • Stinker, Eagle Road • Eagle Chamber of Commerce Middleton: • Eagle Library • Idaho Athletic • Ridley’s • Sunrise Café • The Cottages • Justos Tesoro • Les Schwab If you would like us to add your business to our distribution list, • Perks of Life • Rembrandts please call 550-3111 or email us at • Shady Acres • St Al’s-Eagle theindnews.story@gmail.com • St Luke’s-Eagle • Winco
PAGE 12 • June 2015
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Character Corner
By Jon Keithley The last Tuesday of every month, wine enthusiasts, cigar aficionados, and geeks of every variety come together at Helina’s Wine Bar in Star for a relaxing evening of fine wine, frivolity and confabulation. My business partner, Shanae Lavelle, and I were looking for an excuse to get away from the noise of Boise for an evening. April was a huge month for our publishing company, Mystery House Comics. We’d released a new issue of our ongoing series, Shivertown; debuted a series of coasters in collaboration with Red Feather Lounge; and hit a California comic book convention and a signing at a local bookstore. Passing the city limits sign announcing “Star,” it was obvious we’d found the break we needed. Traffic was slower, streets were wider, and the right-of-way was given, not taken. We felt our posture drop comfortably even before getting to the wine bar.
While Shanae unpacked our comics and her artwork in the luxurious backyard, I snuck inside to get her a glass of wine. Helen, the titular centerpiece of the wine bar, made a point to break away from a cluster of regulars with whom she was engaged in boisterous conversation. She gracefully poured two glasses of wine as she informed me of the varietals and where each winery was located. Larger than life in her kindness and hospitality, Helen’s smile is genuine and her laugh is contagious, bringing a room of strangers together.
We’d had just enough time to kick back in the lavish sunset and enjoy our drinks when Anna, Character Corner’s ambassador, began speaking. She opened by rewarding attendees with raffle prizes ranging from pizzas and wine, to action figures and dolls. Anna spoke into a microphone projecting inside and out as she introduced Shanae and described her work, then Alex of Lookout Comics in Nampa, taking a moment to talk about the features of his comic book shop, as well as the toys and comics he’d brought to Star. This month’s speaker was AlejAndro Anastasio, a professional motivational speaker with a special secret identity, “The Guardian of Hope.” AlejAndro was born with one hand, and regaled us with examples of how his “limitation” is really his super power. Each event features a speaker, a vendor, and an artist, all pulled from the local pool of comic book, sci-fi, film, and fantasy creators and enthusiasts. The evening features raffle prizes, trivia, and delicious New York style pizza catered by the Millstead family of K. Bravo’s Wood Fired Pizza. May isn’t looking as busy at the Mystery House as last month, but that doesn’t mean I’m less anxious to make the trip to Star again and kick back, bubbly in one hand, comic book in the other. You can keep up with Character Corner by joining their Facebook group, which also features updates about the local comics community and other events. Photos courtesy of JT Millstead
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Sidewalk Talk
Father’s Day is June 21st, so TIN reporter, Mickie Park, this month asked:
“What is one of the Best Memories of Dad?”
Best Friends Kobe Strasser and Thomas Moroney Kobe: “Dad is a huge BSU fan. We go to all the games.” Thomas: ”Dad is always taking me to the BSU Basketball Games.”
Riding buddies Kelsi Tackitt riding Comander and Kasey Sherman riding Miner Kelsi: “I love going fishing with my Dad in Alaska. Kasey: “My Dad also takes me fishing all the time.”
Hudson and Zane Sparks “Our Dad is the best. He takes us camping and canoeing all summer.”
JT Alters “The best memories of my Dad, Stevie, and my whole family is all the boys going on hiking trips for 2 or 3 days”
The check engine light. Every new car now comes with OBD-II On Board Diagnostics 2. This is a fault-registering system connected to sensors all over the car, engine, fuel and emissions system. When the check engine light comes on, it can mean many things. There are something like 4,000 unique OBD2 codes that can be stored. Handheld OBD2 diagnostic tools can be plugged into the OBD2 port which is normally under the dash on the driver's side. These tools can read out the fault code and/or reset the system to contain no codes. Codes are split into two categories - historical/inactive and active. The historical codes are lists of things that have been detected in the past but are no longer an issue, whilst the active codes are things that are a problem right now. P0440 OBD-II code. This is the most common code you'll find and it's the first thing you should check. P0440 is the code for Evaporative Emission Control System Malfunction which covers a multitude of sins. The one thing it covers that you can check is your gas cap (petrol cap). Most new cars have a pressurized fuel system and vapour recovery loop. If you've filled up with petrol and not twisted the gas cap until it clicks, you've not sealed the fuel system. It won't pressurise and the OBD2 system will log a P0440 code. In fact, on a lot of cars, that code is so common they'll actually have some way of telling you to check the gas cap. In the Honda Element,
for example, if a P0440 code is logged, the dash scrolls "CHECK GAS CAP" across the odometer display. So if you get a check engine light, check the gas cap first and see if Steve Green the light goes off. of Steve’s Auto Care Note: even if the light does go off, the code will likely still be stored in the OBD system and will show up next time it is checked. It wasn't the gas cap. If tightening the gas cap didn't do it, you'll need to find someone with an OBD2 diagnostics tool or reader. Some garages will charge you just for plugging the device in and reading the code. If they do, walk away. They're ripping you off. Better to find a garage or mechanic that will read the code and actually give you a diagnosis rather than just making you pay to find out a number. Smaller garages and local mechanics will normally do this for you for a small fee, and being independent, the diagnosis won't be predicated on you buying some expensive parts from a corporate chain. If you're a do-it-yourself type used to working from shop manuals, then Steve's Auto Care will do a code check for free. Feel free to just by or call and make an appointment. Source: Be Car Care Aware: carcare.org This is a Paid Advertorial
Steve's Auto Care (208) 863-2748
June 2015 • PAGE 13
PAGE 14 • June 2015
COMMUNIT Y
Mother’s Day Charity Car Show
An Apple a Day for Father's Day
By Loni Trude Alzheimer's disease becomes more of a worry as parents age. What can a loved one do before professional help is needed? Have a dependable schedule regarding meals, bathtime, activities and bedtime. Don't rearrange furniture or dishes. As senses deteriorate, the last to go is sweetness (taste). An apple dipped in honey is a welcome treat. Gigit, manager of
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Happy Father’s Day! Loni Trude, Balloon Artist
Applewood Assisted Living, LOVES her job and would like to answer questions. Call 208377-1656. If apples were love, Gigit would have enough for everyone. For information on Loni's balloon artistry for your business, call 208-442-7268. E-mail loni@BalloonArtist Idaho.com or visit Balloon ArtistIdaho.com.
By Mickie Park The Star Chamber of Commerce and Momz Garage sponsored the 5th annual Mother’s Day Charity Car Show on Saturday, May 9th. The annual event was held at Estrella Plaza with over 40 registered participants throughout the valley. This one-day event featured Street Rods, Restored Classics, Customs, Muscle Cars, Pickups and more. The businesses in the Plaza held a merchant scavenger hunt. There were raffle prizes and special drawings, musical entertainment by JT Tyler & Smooth Avenue and a bounce house for the kids. Food bank bins were on hand to collect canned goods and Mrs. Star welcomed all. It was a day enjoyed by many and the weather was in full cooperation. The community and the participation from local businesses helped make this day a great success. The winners of the People’s Choice awards this year were:
People’s Choice Best in Show: Sponsored By Momz Garage #144 Tom Moore 1956 Chevy Nomad, Middleton
Dennis Grieve’s 1969 Ford GT 500 Shelby Convertible was honored as 1 of the Lucky 7 (pictured is Karen Nance, from Eagle Equestrian, enjoying the ride)
Star’s Famous 1957 Chevy owned by Ernie & Trish
People’s Choice, The Lucky 7:
Sponsored by Star Tire & Auto, Steve’s Auto Care, Asian Wok, The Independent News, NorthStar Physical Therapy, Patriot Pawn & Gun, Stepping Stones Daycare #137 Stuart Robertson 1956 Chevy 4400 Truck, Boise #128 Dennis Grieve 1969 Ford GT 500 Shelby Convertible, Star #129 Steve & Janie Spoor 1969 Chevy Camaro, Star #123 Larry & Betty Hawkins 1954 (Canadian) Pontiac, Meridian #120 Barry Nye 1985 Chevy El Camino, Mountain Home #121 Ross Miller 1946 Ford Pickup, Star #145 Steve Hales 1954 Chevy 3100 Pickup, Fruitland The Star Chamber of Commerce and Momz Garage thanks the community for coming out to the event and congratulates the People’s Choice Best in Show and the Lucky 7.
Ron & Barb Larson of Star with their 1971 Dodge Demon... their 10 year pride and joy
All time favorite is Terry Richard’s 1954 Buick Skylark pictured here with Corey Watson who restored the Buick to what it is today.
Raffle Winners for Mother’s Day Flower Baskets donated from Momz Garage. Becky, Gita Grieve (pictured is Dennis The day wouldn’t be complete without Grieve) and sharing the fun with Mrs. Star Marilyn Cox
People’s Choice Best in Show and The Lucky 7 winners
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
TRINA’S
STAR NEWS
FITNESS CORNER
Recently a friend came to me because she was not seeing the weight loss results she was hoping for. Frustrated, she wondered what she could do to reach her goal. She wanted to lose 25 pounds. Perhaps you to have struggled with long term weight loss. Here are my thoughts: • Can you sustain this new way of eating for the rest of your life? If the answer is no, then you have to change it. Change your eating habits to reflect a permanent change, NOT something that is temporary. • Does this new way of eating allow you to go out with friends and family? If the answer is no - then you have to change the way you order off the menu. Be that ‘guy’ and order the way you want meals prepared. Every restaurant serves protein and veggies, olive oil and lemon wedges for dressing. At a Mexican restaurant you can order fajitas with guacamole topped with salsa. • Peer Pressure sucks. My favorite is when I hear: Trina you are already so skinny, why don't you eat the bread. Education is the best weapon; if you don't understand why you are eating clean, paleo, zone, etc. you will find it difficult to explain yourself. As you start to look, feel and perform better than your peers, they will start to notice long before they notice you are not having the bread on your turkey sandwich. • Do you experience low energy during the day? You may not be getting enough nutritional value that your body and brain needs to have the energy. EAT MORE! Add a variety of foods to your plate. • Perhaps you lost weight at first and now you are gaining weight. What you have been doing was a short term fix - it is no longer working for you. So you need to change it. Journal, Journal, Journal. If you don’t know how/what you are eating, you won’t be able to track your progress. • Cortisol is an important player in this game. It affects energy storage, fat regulation, and a host of other functions. Cortisol regulates tissues and our immune system. Your cortisol levels are higher in the morning than at night. It is important to get your larger meals in the morning/day.
• To optimize your exercise results, workout in the AM. • Make most of your meals protein, veggies, and fats. • I don't like to eat meat, what about vegetarians? This question always comes up. Unfortunately most plant proteins are incomplete proteins. We need to get aminos in our bodies from other sources other than plant proteins. If you are going to skip the meat you must try and get things in like tofu, tempeh, brown rice protein, and pea protein. Add lots of fats, loads of fruits and veggies. Folks still have digestive, autoimmune and GI problems on a vegetarian diet. • Each meal should consist of 4 - 6 ounces of protein which equals about 27 - 35 grams of protein. Typical meals should look like this: Breakfast 2 eggs, almonds, berries Lunch Chicken Salad; lettuce, carrot, cucumber, tomatoes, walnuts, dressing, lean pork loin, fish or chicken Snack 2 oz of chicken, apple, few avocado slices Dinner Grilled Salmon, roasted green beans, side salad Breakfast Leftover salmon, walnuts Lunch Bunless burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, orange, almonds Snack Jerky, macadamia nuts Dinner Rotisserie chicken, steamed broccoli, side salad
Breakfast Leftover chicken with salsa, 1/2 avocado Lunch Tuna cabbage salad Snack Leftover lunch Dinner Crockpot pork loin, with tomato sauce, zucchini, and cauliflower. What have you got to lose by changing things up? My motto is “Eat foods that make you feel and perform your best.” Please share your weight loss struggles and triumphs.
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
Saturday, June 13 is Free Fishing Day
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game invites veteran and novice anglers of all ages, residents and nonresidents alike, to celebrate the day by fishing anywhere in Idaho without a license. Though fishing license requirements are suspended for this special day, all other rules, such as limits or tackle restrictions, remain in effect. “Free fishing day provides a great opportunity for novices to give fishing a try and perhaps develop it into a life-long pursuit,” Fish and Game regional fish manager Joe Kozfkay said. At special locations around the southwest region, equipment will be available for use and fishing experts will be on hand to help novice anglers learn the ins and outs of fishing. In addition, all these locations will be stocked with hatchery rainbow trout prior to the special day. Look for the event nearest you and Take a Kid Fishing. Stay tuned for a list of these events as the date draws near. For more information regarding Free Fishing Day, contact the Fish and Game McCall office (634-8137) or the Nampa office (465-8465).
Food Donation Needed Eagle Foodbank
Distribution Days are the first and third Thursday of every month 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and the last Tuesday 6-7 p.m. 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 - Wednesday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. After-hours by appointment. 939-9181,office@hopeeagle.org www.hopeeagle.com.
J UNE E VENTS
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. City of Eagle news, pg. 6 & 7; City of Star news, pg. 16 and on the online calendar at
www.theindnews.com
June 2015 • PAGE 15
uCr itic...... By Tom Wick, Universal Critic
The problem with most franchises is that the writers seem to get bored with the characters. I’m an Iron Man fan, I’m an Avengers fan. And having Kevin Spader voice the android Ultron was sheer genius. But … more boring than boring characters is having the boring characters go through some kind of poorly executed contrived, intra-fighting conflict. And to make it worse: sprinkle in a completely unnecessary love story. That, my friends, is boring. If you haven’t blown your ten bucks on Avengers: Age of Ultron, don’t. It’s still worth the cheap seats, mind you. It’s a great cinematic experience, beyond excellent cinematography, the CGI is bar none. But the storyline? Are these writers from Colorado? And what happened to the Black Widow? Did she forget how to fight? Apparently, because she’s not even slated to be in the next sequel Avengers: Infinity War Part I. And speaking of fights, the fight scene with Iron Man v. Hulk was way too long and ultimately unnecessary; even worse than the Black Widow/Hulk romance. Despite the two hours of boringness, it is worth a few dollars to see the special effects and to hear Spader as Ultron. Perhaps Age of Ultron isn’t your cup of tea. Then perhaps you should try Age of Adaline (‘Age of’ must be the buzzword in Hollywood right now). Sadly, Kevin Spader is not in
Adaline. But Harrison Ford is and is still a reliably great actor. And by my count he was the best actor in the movie. Adaline reworks the ‘forever’ story. A young, widowed mother, young twenties, careens off a snowy road and her car falls into an icy river. She dies from the cold, but lightning strikes her, resuscitating her while somehow preventing her DNA from aging. And from here an interesting story unfolds: a story of growing old and maturing without aging. Adaline, like most of us, doesn’t think about looking old until her daughter is in high school. Mind you, the story has a few continuity problems, but you’ll just need to let those go and enjoy the movie. And don’t mind the predictability; they give that away in the trailers. There’s nothing stunning about Adaline, but for four bucks and a bucket of popcorn you can’t go wrong. Adaline’s strength is that it’s just a good movie. Many of the ‘forever’ stories focus on survival with a lot of anxiety and unnecessary conflict. Adaline’s concerns are her friendships and relationships. It can’t be easy being twenty-two years old and watching your child grow old and wondering if they should live in an assisted living facility. And how long can you possibly live without falling in love? I think Adaline hits home just by being a good love story.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
An affordable way to advertise your business or service! Over 16,000 copies distribution to Eagle and Star, with drops in N Meridian and W Boise! Call 794-6858 or email theindnews.story@gmail.com
PAGE 16 • May 2015
CIT Y OF STAR
Thanks for the great response in the mail handlers stamp out hunger. 3168 lbs of food came in.
Our current needs are spaghetti sauce and bar soap.
Summer lunch starts June 9 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Blake Park
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Volunteers are needed. Call Connie 779-0046.
Our bike rodeo is on June 16 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Blake Park. If kids need a bike, they can sign up at the rodeo.
Volunteers for the community garden are needed. Contact Jerry 871-3046.
We need Volunteers
Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. & Thursdays from 2:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Thank you again for your support. If you need assistance or know someone who does we are open every Thursday 3-5, the third Thursday 3-7 or call 208-779-0046.
Star Outreach Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Star Outreach- Neighbors Helping Neighbors is a Public Charity under Internal Revenue section 501 (c) (3)
Check us out at staroutreachonline.com.
June 2015 Star Chamber Calendar
6/4/15 First Thursday - Star Chamber of Commerce – OUT TO LUNCH
At Life Spring Christian Community Center/Educational: Legal Alternatives for Healthcare Insurance for Businesses and Individuals – 174 N Star Road, Star, ID ~ 11:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Networking and new business meet and greet! BRING BUSINESS CARDS, A FRIEND AND A RAFFLE ITEM WITH YOU!!!
6/4/15 FIRST THURSDAY Star Chamber RIBBON CUTTING:
Steve’s Auto Care directly after the Luncheon 12:45 – 1:00 p.m.
6/18/15 THIRD THURSDAY: Star Chamber GENERAL MEETING:
Educational TBA. Agenda: Business/City/Community and Networking 6:30pm Star City Hall.
Committee Volunteers needed:
Event/Gov’t Liaison/Communications Committees: Tamara Sullivan-Watson Membership Committee: Michelle Glaze Finance Committee: Lavina Gibbs Education Chairman: Kyle Kurscheidt Welcome Wagon: April Smith Contact the Committee leaders at President@StarIdahoChamber.com Join us online or at one of our meetings as a member to receive the great benefits for your business. For more information: Star Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 72, Star, ID 83669 Phone: 208-908-5476 / Text 208-350-1223 www.StarIdahoChamber.com • President@StarIdahoChamber.com
10769 W State Street • 286-7247 www.staridaho.org
Our theme is “Every Hero has a Story!”
Are you a senior or know a senior in Star? Please Join us this month and meet old and new friends
June 16: June 17: June 17: June 18: June 26: June 29: July 4:
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 available on a donation basis. • AA Meetings each Monday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Women’s AA Meetings each Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Class size is limited to 24 children. Registration is $15 and includes prizes, drinks and lunch. For more info and to register www.firstteeidaho.org. Star Summer Movie Series at Blake Haven Park co-sponsored by Star Elementary the first Friday of every month (June - August). Big Hero 6 (June 5), Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (July 3) and Dragon 2 (August 7). Movies start at dusk. 3rd Annual British Soccer Camp at Hunters Creek in Star July 20-24 2015. We are fortunate to have the most popular soccer camp in the country return to our town. Their instruction is based upon one of the most innovative approaches to coaching youth soccer in the US and Canada. Our experienced staff study the game at all levels and we have identified the key techniques and skills that your players need to work on and master to reach their true potential. Ages 3-16 prices vary. BRITISH CAMP: https://challenger.mycustomevent.com/ShoppingCart.a spx?com=detailview&imp=f&iid=60901&&returncom=productlist TETRA BRAZIL CAMP: https://challenger.mycustomevent.com/ShoppingCart.aspx?com=detailview&i mp=f&iid=60912&&returncom=productlist Co-ed Wiffleball for ages 6 to 11 registration June 1 - June 19 Residents $20.00 Non Residents $25.00. Season will run Wednesdays 10:00-11:00 a.m. August 3 - Aug 28. Kids do not need any equipment. Family Feud Friendly Games Register June 1 - June 19 Residents: $20/ family Non Residents $25 /family with family member needing to be a minimum of 6 yrs old. Games begin 6:30 p.m. weekly at Hunters Creek Park. Soccer, with a 6ft blow up soccer ball, beach ball volleyball and kickball will be some of the games played. Season is for 4 weeks starting Monday, Aug. 3. STAR RELAY FOR LIFE - JULY 17 held at Middleton Middle School Track. Join our SupaStar team found at link below or make up your own team. Call 286-7247 if you have any questions about the relay. http://relay.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLCY15GW?fr_id=66353&pg=entry
Summer Reading begins on June 1.
Star City Council Meetings
June Activities: Goldmine Newsletter arrives Music by Bob Comstock – starts at 11 a.m. Blood Pressure taken by Star’s firemen Foot Clinic/Cost $25/starts at 9 a.m./Call 286-7943 to make appt. Walmart Shopping – Contact Bethe at 286-7943 Hearing Clinic (ear cleaning) – 10:30 a.m. - Free Board Meeting Outing to Emmett and the Dinner House at the Triangle near Sweet, Idaho Contact Bethe at 286-7943 Appointment Day/$12 haircuts, bank, doctor appointments, etc. Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Contact Bethe at 286-7943 Birthday Recognition Music by Bob Comstock – starts at 11 a.m. Appointment Day/$12 haircuts, bank, doctor appointments, etc. Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Contact Bethe at 286-7943 Root beer floats – starts at 11 a.m. – Free Outing to Idaho Parma Senior Center - Contact Bethe at 286-7943 Star Celebration Days including pie contest and auction. See details below.
Fit and Fall Prevention™Class Sponsored by Central District Health. No Cost – Join Anytime! Held at Star City Hall 10769 W. State St. 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Monday, Wednesday & Friday. Call Kim for more details 286-7247. Pilates Tuesday and Thursday 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. taught by experienced instructor Julia Hilleary. Class meets at Star City Hall and all abilities are welcome. $25/class per month. Class will be ongoing with the minimum of 6 participants. Please bring a mat. Flytying Class Saturday, May 30, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. at Star City Hall. $2 will provide you with your materials for 2 ties and instructions. Call 286-7247 for more details and to sign up. Classes will be held the last Saturday of each month with interest. Needlepoint for all ages and abilities taught by the talented Dyan Kastner. Classes will be held T/TH starting June 23, 10-11:30 a.m. at Star City Hall $5.00/class. No experience needed. Bring project or call for suggestions at 286-7247. Tennis 101 Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. starting June 9 - 30 for 2 sessions at 2 weeks per session and July 7–28. $20 for another 2 sessions making 8 total weeks $50. Registration is now open. Register on our website. http://www.idtennis.com/tennis_101/ New**Star Elementary Bench Exercise Series incorporated into the benches @ Star Elementary Track. Look for the new additions in June for your summer shape up. Rising Stars Soccer Camp at Hunters Creek Park June 29 - July 2 times and prices vary. Check out www.risingstarsoccercamp.com for more details. Golf 4 Fun June 6, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Hunter’s Creek Park Star ID. PGA Professional Jon Stein, now directing The First Tee of Idaho, will offer basic golf instruction in putting, chipping and full swing. The class is intended to be a low-key introduction to the game of golf for children with little or no golf experience. There will be an emphasis on having fun while walking and playing.
Kids, teens, and adults can earn prizes by reading. Kids and teens will receive Stampede rodeo tickets, toys, food coupons, a free book and more for everyone who completes the program. Ask about our online sign-up. The program runs from June 1 through August 8. What a great way to get your family reading!
Star Senior Center
June 3: June 5: June 5: June 5: June 8: June 10: June 10: June 13:
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.
STAR LIBRARY - June Events
1st and 3rd Tuesday • 7:00 p.m. Star City Hall
102 S. Main Street, 286-7943 • Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.
Star Parks and Recreation
For current Star Parks and Recreation activites, information, and registration http://staridaho.org/parks/activities.php, call 286-7247 or visit City Hall. 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!!
City of Star Meetings
Star City Hall
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Mondays: 6/1, 6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29 EatPlayGrow Story Time (ages 3–5) at 10:30 a.m. – making healthy choices fun. Monday Teen Time (12+) at 4:00 p.m.: 6/8 – Teen musical chairs of doom 6/15 – CSI Star 6/22 – Screen Printing 6/29 – Pizza ‘n Books: you bring a book you’ve read, we provide the pizza Tuesdays: 6/2, 6/9, 6/16, 6/23, 6/30 Star Quilters Meet at the library on Tuesdays (no meeting on 6/9) from 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. Open to anyone interested. Special Summer Programs on Tuesdays at 2:00 p.m. for kids of ALL AGES: 6/9– Super Hero Party – come in costume for games and fun! 6/16 – Mr. X, master magician will amaze and delight. 6/23– Storyteller extraordinaire Christopher Leebrick will share heroic tales. 6/30 – Endangered Animals – Learn more about rare animals. Materials supplied by the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge.
Wednesdays: 6/3, 6/10, 6/17, 6/24 Star Knitters meet at the library each Wednesday morning from 10:30 - 12:30 p.m. Open to anyone interested. Super Hero Boot Camp (grades 1- 5) at 2:00 p.m. 6/10 – Superhero capes and masks 6/17 – Superhero gadgets 6/24 – Laser challenge! Thursdays: 6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25 Babies and Music (ages 0-3) at 10:30 a.m. – stories, songs, puppet fun with Miss Jana. Maker Time (all ages) begins on 6/11at 2:00 p.m.: Creating Life-size Angry Birds, handmade paper and more. Fridays: 6/5, 6/12, 6/19, 6/26 Music and Movement for all ages 10:30 a.m. – Kids learn rhythm, coordination and other skills while moving to music. Puppet Show for all ages on 6/19 at 2 p.m. Saturday: 6/13 “Beyond the Book” discussion (adults) 11:00 a.m. This month we will each pick our own book to share as we enjoy brunch and socialize!
*Preschools and daycares are welcome to call the library to schedule a story time visit!
For more information on any of these programs, please call the Star Branch Library at 286-9755 or www.adalib.org. Sign up for our weekly newsletter, too!
Star Senior Citizens, Inc. Pie Contest and Auction - July 4, 2015
Pie Baking Contest will be held at LifeSpring Christian Church, 174 N. Star Road Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in the pie contest - Bring two pies (1 for contest and 1 for auction) to LifeSpring Christian Church between 12 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. Contest is at 12:30 p.m. Pie will be sold by the slice at 4 p.m. and there will be a Pie auction at 5 p.m. at Hunter Creek Park. Proceeds will benefit the Star Senior Center For further information or clarification call Norma Dawson at 322-4357
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
June 2015 • PAGE 17
STAR NEWS
Hometown Celebration News Hometown Celebration Parade!
Star businesses, groups and residents are invited to participate in this year's Hometown Parade. There are no fees! Simply show up at the entrance to Rockbridge at 2 p.m. on July 4th for the line-up. Parade begins at 3 p.m. For more information, call 286-0734.
Hometown Talent Show
Star residents, have you turned in your application for the 4th of July Talent Show? Auditions will be held in mid-June, so make sure to get those applications in on time! They are available at Star City Hall or on the City of Star's website. There are a lot of talented folks out there and this year, the committee is hoping to see more adult participants. For more information, call 890-4550.
Hometown Celebration Meeting
Fun for the Family!
Star Celebrates Arbor Day
12:30 pm
There will be a meeting held on June 6th at Star City Hall at 6:30 p.m. Anyone interested in more information about this fun event or volunteer opportunities is encouraged to attend!
By Mickie Park The City of Star held its first Arbor Day celebration on April 24th at Star River Park. Arborist and Landscape Designer Mary Jane Marlow led the event and donated a 9’ Shademaster Honey Locust Tree to the City. The tree was dedicated to the City with the help of fourth grade students and teachers from Star Elementary. Marlow has always enjoyed working with students and getting them involved in a lifelong stewardship of trees. The students, faculty and family members listened as Mary shared the history of Arbor Day and the importance of continuing the annual holiday every year. The most important question by one of the students was how big will this tree get? Marlow replied “This tree will grow up to 50 feet tall and 45 feet wide at full maturity in 35 years.”
The 9’ Shademaster Honey Locust Tree was dedicated to the City of Star
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Star Senior Pie Contest
At Lifespring Church (Pies due at noon!)
3:00 pm
Parade begins New Time this Year!
Madison Kerr, Madi Bohlmann and Cameron Petross poured fish oil and laid mulch to help the Honey Locust become strong for years to come
According to the Fourth Grade Foresters website, Arbor Day originally began in Nebraska and was founded in the early 1800’s by pioneer J. Sterling Morton. The pioneers watched and quickly learned about the benefit of trees. They found that not only are they pleasing to the eye, but they also offer shade from the hot sun. In addition, they offer fuel, building materials and a windbreak from the blowing soil and sand. The first tree planting holiday was officially celebrated on April 10th, 1872; the tradition began in schools in 1882. Arbor Day is now observed on the last Friday in April. The First Arbor Day Celebration of Star ended with a poignant message: Grow Strong and True.
Line-up at 2:00 pm at the entrance to Rockbridge
(Seneca Springs Way & State Street)
Entry forms available on City of Star website or at Star City Hall.
Parade runs west on State Hwy 44 and ends just past Star Road.
All activities listed below will take place at Hunters Creek Sports Park (Floating Feather and Star Rd) Bring a lawn chair or blanket! Refreshments will be available and raffle prizes drawn throughout the evening.
4:00-5:30 pm
BBQ / Kids Games / Water Fun with Star Fire BBQ Tickets $3 at the gate for everyone. Lot’s of water fun this year!
5:00 pm
Star Senior Pie Auction
Auctioning pies to raise money for the Star Senior Center - a Hometown Favorite!
Star Elementary 4th Grade Students & Faculty field trip to Star River Park
Arborist Mary Jane Marlow shared her passion and knowledge of trees on Arbor Day
By Dr. Kyle Kurscheidt Winter has passed and spring has sprung. Still many of us living in the Treasure Valley are dealing with congestion, runny noses and itchy eyes. That’s right: spring allergies are in the air. As the seasons change and the hills around our beautiful valley come to life, the native plants release pollens into the air. Although these pollens are natural and just a part of nature, some of our immune systems see them as foreign invaders and create antibodies, our bodies’ defenders, to attack them. This, in turn, causes our body to release natural chemicals known as histamines, causing the runny noses, congestion and itchy eyes that those suffering from spring allergies are dealing with. Today, many of us are looking for natural ways to combat our ailments. Below are three all natural ways to reduce the effects of your springtime allergies: • When it comes to reducing your spring allergy symptoms, controlling your environment can be one of the most effective ways to find relief. This allows you to limit your exposure to the pollens that are actually causing your allergies. Some simple things you can do to limit your exposure to spring time allergens
are: driving with your windows rolled up; filtering the air in your home with a HEPA air filter; and limiting the use of window box fans, which may be blowing the pollens into your home. • One of the most effective ways to naturally reduce your symptoms is through the use of a Neti Pot. These lamp-shaped pots have been proven to be an effective way to find relief from our springtime allergies. They allow you to rinse out your nasal passages with a saline solution, in turn reducing your congestionrelated symptoms, such as a runny nose. • Many people look for natural alternatives to the over-the-counter antihistamines they are taking. Recent research has started to show that some roots and herbs may have similar effects to these over the counter antihistamines. One of the most promising is Butterbur extract, which has shown promise in reducing the effects of chemicals that cause swelling in the nasal passages. If interested in trying butterbur extract, make sure the one you chose is labeled “PA-free”. As we progress through spring and the levels of pollen in the air fluctuate, beat your spring allergies naturally by using these three simple tips.
It’s Allergy Season
6:30 pm
Star Talent Show
Showcasing Star’s talented residents! Cash prizes for top 3 in each age category.
8:00 pm
The Fabulous Chancellors They are back this year! Great music and entertainment for all ages.
10:15 pm
Fireworks Show
The incredible Star Fireworks show will begin at dark accompanied by music.
10:45 pm
The Fabulous Chancellors
The band will continue playing for another hour after the fireworks show.
NO DOGS or PERSONAL FIREWORKS ALLOWED
See you on the 4th!
PAGE 18 • June 2015
SPORTS
Boys Rugby Team Finishes Season 4-3
By Philip A. Janquart The Eagle Nakahi Boys rugby team lost to the Meridian Renegades 39-17 in the final weekend of high school state playoff action on May 9. The Nakahi, Eagle High School’s club affiliate, ended the season with a 4-3 overall record, according to head coach Brad LaPlante who said his team started out strong, but lost momentum following early victories. “I think what happened in the beginning is that we started with an easier schedule, so we started with a 2-0 record and got our expectations going,” he said. “But then we started playing better teams in the area. We lost one game, then won one, and then lost another.” LaPlante said neither he, nor his team, was disappointed with the season’s results considering the Nakahi, which was founded about six years ago, was split into two separate teams. “We were actually pretty successful because it was our first year as a club (following the split),” he explained. “Rocky Mountain ended up getting most of the kids, about 80 percent of the team, and now they dominate. We only got five players from the split, but ended up recruiting some good players and ended up having some success.”
Nick Blanchette carrying the load
In the beginning, athletes from Eagle, Star and north Meridian joined to form one team. But as the sport grew in popularity, and as the Nakahi began to become one of the more dominating teams, Rugby Idaho, the governing body for high school rugby in Idaho, and its board decided it was in everyone’s best interest for the Nakahi to be split into two teams, both remaining Eagle-based teams. That all changed once rugby became a high school affiliated club sports, with schools like Rocky Mountain, Mountain View, Capital and others forming their own teams. The Nakahi did not benefit from the split, but have formed a solid foundation of athletes pulled exclusively from Eagle High School. “I think it’s good for every school to have its own club team because people get behind it more and you get players who just want to play for their school,” said LaPlante, a U.S. Air Force veteran now teaching at Eagle Middle
Running with the ball-Michael Hershey. R-L: Zach Blume, Jacob Smith, Sam Bruneel and Paul Grimstead School. “Rocky (Mountain) is our rival in most sports, so that helps out a lot.” LaPlante, who previously coached Borah High School’s club team, played rugby at Washington State University and then at the University of Idaho, before hooking up with Boise’s men’s club, the Snake River Snakes. There are now seven teams in the Treasure Valley, two teams in northern Idaho and about five in eastern Idaho, according to LaPlante. The sport is not sanctioned by the Idaho High School Activities Association (IHSAA), but Laplante says it has potential for future sanctioning based, in part, on the relatively low cost of participation. “It’s fairly inexpensive as opposed to lacrosse or hockey,” he said. “All you need are some cleats and a mouthpiece.” Although not sanctioned - LaPlante said the league sought IHSAA sanctioning this year, but was denied – the sport is contributing to football, a fully sanctioned high school sport. “New tackling rules are developing,” he said, referring to growing concern over concussion-related injuries and a nationwide move to change how players tackle at all levels. “There is an article about former B.S.U. (Boise State University) coach Chris Petersen who is already implementing rugby-style tackling techniques taught by one of his former players, Mik Lose. Seattle (Seahawks) coach Pete Carroll is doing the same thing. They are smart because they know changes are coming and they want to be ahead of the curve when they are implemented.” LaPlante, who also coaches football, said the emerging trend is good news because he is now free to teach the tackling techniques to his own players. “I have the benefit of both football and rugby interests, and I can teach,” he said. Here’s the link to the story about Chris Petersen: http://www.seattletimes.com/sports /uw-husky-football/uw-football-chris-petersentaking-the-lead-in-safer-tackling-techniques/.
University of Washington players practicing rugbystyle tackling. Photo courtesy of the Seattle Times
Paul Grimstead being lifted
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
Eagle Girls Rugby Team Wraps Up Season
By Philip A. Janquart The Eagle High School girls’ rugby team, called the “Nakahi,” finished the 2015 season 2-5 (2-7 overall), dropping both Idaho Rugby playoff games in early May. Coach Elise Overgaard attributes some of the losses to inexperience and a learning curve associated with the sport’s relative infancy status in the U.S., especially at the high school level. She also said her team faced an unusually difficult schedule that pitted the Nakahi against some of the best teams in the Treasure Valley. “You don’t want to make excuses, but we did have a tough schedule this season,” she said. “Capital has been around the longest and is quite established. They have great coaches and a great program - they kicked the crap out of everybody. We had to play them early.”
The Eagle High School girls rugby team battles it out against rival schools in the Treasure Valley and eastern Idaho
The Nakahi, Eagle High School’s second-year club affiliate, also played the Furies, a combined team consisting of athletes from Meridian and Centennial High Schools. “They are another established team, probably second to Capital,” Overgaard said of the Furies. “We had to play them twice. Our girls played well, but we couldn’t come up with the wins.” Eagle notched a 12-7 victory over Nampa March 19 and a 19-10 non-conference win over Idaho Falls on March 4. Capital garnered a 7-0 regular season record going into May’s high school playoffs. Overgaard, who discovered the sport while studying at Boston University, now plays for a women’s club in Boise. “In college, I actually went out for track and crew, but I couldn’t keep up with those Division I sports programs and school, too,” she said. “I found rugby and played for a women’s club team for a couple years, and then on another club team in Boston, after I graduated.” She says she liked it from the very start. “It was immediate. It was an ‘I found my place’ kind of thing,” Overgaard said. “It’s a really cool sport because you have 15 people on
Nakahi coach Elise Overgaard says rugby in Idaho is growing in popularity
the field at once, so there is a position for every type of athlete. It’s fun coaching and helping players figure out which spot is for them. There is also a personality type that seems to go with each position.” Overgaard said the aggressive, nasty personalities usually play second-row, a role she fills on her women’s team. There are seven girls’ teams in Idaho, including four in the Treasure Valley and three in eastern Idaho. The girls come from a variety of backgrounds, but mostly from school sanctioned sports like soccer, track and basketball, with a few from cross country. Girl’s rugby in Idaho is behind the boys programs in terms of league development. “It’s really hard to find coaches because all the men’s coaches want to coach boys, and the women who could coach still want to play,” Overgaard explained. “Women’s rugby is still fairly new and we just recently got to the point where we can show up to games with 15 players. We need to find people who are willing to give up playing to coach, but most women aren’t ready to retire.” Overgaard says the sport is unique because its distinctive nature attracts athletes who truly want to learn something new. “What I love about all the girls on this team (Nakahi) is the fact that they all came out because they were interested,” she said. “It’s not an ‘I play rugby because my family played.’ They came out because they decided to show up and play something they never heard of before. Some of them had never seen a rugby ball or watched a rugby game, but they heard they could tackle, so they learned how to play from the ground up, in one season.” The Nakahi girls’ team was founded in February 2014, about five or six years after the boys Nakahi team came together. “It’s really a beautiful sisterhood, too, and not just team specific,” Overgaard added. “You can go anywhere in the world, and you immediately have 60 new friends. It’s a respectful and beautiful sisterhood within Idaho Rugby.” The team is always looking for new players. To learn more about girl’s high school rugby, log on to www.rugbyidaho.com. Idaho Rugby Girls Teams Treasure Valley: Capital, Meridian/Centennial, Nampa and Eagle Eastern Idaho: Idaho Falls, Portneuf and Burley
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
West Valley Little League Skills Competition: A Huge Success
By Mike Olsen It was a beautiful spring day in the Treasure Valley. Temperatures reached 80 degrees, the enticing aroma of grilled burgers and dogs permeated the air, children of all ages filled the bouncy house, and the shaved ice station was in full force! West Valley Little League 2015 Annual Skills Competition was on! This annual event held at Duck Alley last month is used as both a fundraising opportunity, as well as a platform for players to utilize their skills in a friendly competition with other players. Families pay a registration fee, and have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets for some great prizes. All moneys that are raised go directly back into West Valley Little League, to fund various activities critical to the continued success of the league. All league positions are volunteer, and the success of West Valley is accredited to a wonderful community, fabulous sponsors and the dedication of the families and players in the league. All participants received a Dri-Fit Kryptek shirt with their registration, and the parents were able to sit back, socialize with other parents and watch their kids have some fun. West Valley hosted over 100 players this year.
The Skills Competition has up to 4 different areas in which participants can compete: base running, batting, pitching and aroundthe-horn (fielding). The challenges are designed for players to showcase their skills in a friendly competitive environment without competing head-to-head. Prizes are awarded in the following divisions: Rookie softball & baseball, AA Baseball, T-Ball, Minors softball,
OUTDOORS
June 2015 • PAGE 19
AAA baseball, Majors softball and baseball. After each divisional competition, the prizes were awarded to those players that excelled in their particular event. This year’s Grand Prize was 4 tickets to a Seattle Mariners game with a night at a Seattle hotel, which was the talk of the field! The winner was Sam Barbey, who plays for the West Valley Little League AAA Baseball teamMariners! Congrats to Sam: we are sure he had no shortage of volunteers to join him in Seattle. West Valley is very gracious for all of the sponsors that contributed to this year’s event. The event's major sponsor this year was Kryptek Outdoor Group. Other sponsors included: Ruth Chris Steak House, Big 5, Dicks Sporting Goods, Roaring Springs, Wahooz, Aspen Leaf, Bogus Basin, The Hampton, Smokey Mountain Pizza, Idaho River Sports, Idaho Botanical Gardens, Easton Mako, Fast Lane Indoor Kart Racing, Chandler’s Steak House and Eagle Hilton Garden Inn. West Valley Little League specifically thanks Anya Bawden for putting this event together. Anya is a member of the WVLL Board of Directors, and oversees fundraising and sponsorships. Somehow, between being a mother, having a career and family, and supporting her own child player, she put together this amazing and successful event. The end of the spring season is fast approaching, with All-Stars just around the corner. The League offers a fall program as well, and all league-age children within the boundaries are welcome and encouraged to participate. Information is updated regularly on the West Valley web site: www.wvll.org, and also on their Facebook Page. Correspondence can be directed to: presidentwvll@gmail.com.
Photos courtesy of Mike Olsen of Mike Olsen Photography
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Urban Farm Girl
By Joanne M.W. Love Life on acreage is rewarding, but I admit, there are days I lament our routine can feel downright monotonous. Raising three children and 10 times the animals carries a moderate amount of predictability in our lives. It’s not like we can pick up and leave any time we choose. We do the same chores with the animals each and every day. The kids have the same patterns in their schedules, each and every day. I have to be careful not to bemoan this reality, because as soon as I do, chaos seems to surface rapidly. This month, amidst the typical marathon endof-year sports competitions, induction ceremonies, season parties and final exams, we’ve had the new element of a graduating senior. As we guide our son toward the imaginary finish line (better described as pushing and dragging him across with only 10 remaining school days), strange conversations are emerging. “Why is it my job to write all the addresses on the announcements? You’re not doing anything.” As deadening silence blankets the room, the other kids and even my husband look at me without breathing for a moment. All eyes are waiting to see if I’m going to spontaneously combust. At the risk of disappointing, I am succinct. “Because they’re YOURS!!” More frequently, we’ve battled, “I don’t think I’m gonna go to school today.” “Uh, YES … you ARE!” And then, there’s the coup de grace. After saving all his paychecks, he recently bought his first car. Upon hearing that we’re hesitant to let him take it to college (north of Seattle) due to lack of freeway
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experience, I received a phone call while watching the high school District Championship track meet. “Mom, can I tell you something?” (Oh have mercy, NO, don’t tell me anything!) “I left school early and I’m on my way back now.” “From … where?” I trepidatiously ask. “I drove to Pendleton so I could get a ton of freeway experience.” Hhhhhhhhhhhhhhh (that’s the sound of me, exhaling, with absolutely no words in response). (Surprise!) Oh, how I wish I could wrap my mind around what goes through an 18 year old boy’s head. On second thought, maybe it’s best I don’t know. Our oldest is not alone in contributing to the element of surprise in our household. The week before, as we walked to the barn for morning chores, I was met with resistance when I pushed on the barn door. Within a split second, my brain could register the weight behind the door was not that of a barn cat, nor that of a loose horse. This left one thing………THE PIGS ARE LOOSE! As we forced the door open, we were greeted with three pigs that looked at us like, “You would not believe the night we’ve had.” Drunk from the excitement and exhaustion of Pigs Night Out, they willingly followed me back into their pen, still open, much like a Bed & Breakfast. It was there that we found the first, obvious clue to what transpired in the night. The first victim had been our small, outboard trolling motor (stored in the corner of the barn), drug back to their pen like fresh kill; this was only the beginning of their late night snacks.
A quick scan of the barn revealed remnants of a scene not unlike a prison riot. The pigs had canvassed everything; not even the R.V. tires had escaped their probing snouts. Garden hoses were drug out, hay bails were trampled, motor oil & diesel fuel cans tipped (thankfully not leaked), bags of grain and equine pre-natal vitamins were sampled, horse brushes and ropes were chewed, and farm tools were scattered everywhere. (Surprise!) Oh, if I could just get in the heads of those pigs. I’ve caught them previously leaning up against the walls, balancing on their hind ends. Could they have been testing the strength of the door and walls to calculate the timing of their great escape? My mother’s words, “Be careful what you wish for,” came creeping back as I recalled my recent thoughts of how monotonous farm routines can feel. Our current and I pray, last, surprise in May came yesterday, as I checked on our pregnant
mare, due May 30th, for any impending signs of labor. Did I really expect this to go predictably? Wouldn’t you know, all signs show that she should deliver within the next 48 hours (18 days early- Surprise!). I don’t even need to get into the mind of our mare; I already know what she’s thinking. “Get this baby out already!” And so, amidst the busy work of planning senior pictures, graduation announcements, State Track meets, dinners, parties and out of town guests, we begin round-the-clock, two hour checks in the barn tonight (sleep is SO overrated in May). You’d think by now, I’d realize that surprises are really the bread and butter of my life. They always give me a good laugh (sometimes weeks later), and inevitably build upon my ever-evolving learning curve. For instance, when my oldest son gets home and I’m not there again, you can be sure his list will read, “Dinner is in the fridge, mow the lawn, and do not drive to Pendleton.”
© Urban Farm Girl: Raising Critters & Kids, Awarded Idaho Press Club’s Excellence in Journalism for best Weekly General Column.
ROOF DAMAGE
PAGE 20 • June 2015
The Independent News • www.theindnews.com
from WIND or HAIL ? CALL US FOR A FREE INSPECTION
Your homeowners Insurance may cover wind damage. We are still inspecting roofs for hail damage, but see many with wind damage, especially to the older 3-tab type roofing. Star, Meridian and all surrounding areas were affected by wind damage.
Tired of waiting for your roofer? We can put your roof on in days - not weeks or months.
LOCAL CONTRACTOR CHOOSE A
921-1445
A local company with 25+ years of experience. Call us for a free inspection. CF Construction provides a 10 year workmanship warranty.
Roofing materials we use have a 30 year (or more)manufacturer’s warranty.
Established in 2003, we live and work in Eagle.
We serve our community and we serve our customers.
CF Construction will be there during the entire process
Obtain a FREE inspection now on Residential or Commercial roofs • Damage is typically not visible without a close inspection. • There is a time limit to file a claim with your insurer.
CF Construction takes all the hassle out of the claim process With our years of local experience: • • • •
We meet with the insurance adjustor at your home. We show adjustor all areas of damage; roof, gutters, garage door, etc. We are your Advocate through the entire process. We can help explain all the paperwork.
BEWARE
Companies from out of state that “chase storms” and temporarily set up offices are working the area. If they leave when the work is done, how will they provide you with warranty work? Any company with a registration # of 36000 or higher registered with the state after the storm and is not a long established company. There are local contractors that have a Reg. # higher than 36000. PLEASE BUY IDAHO! Please check every contractors registration # and look up thier history on the state website - even local contractors. You want to know how long every contractor has been in business. Go to ROOFINGEAGLE.COM and click on the state links. Please check all registration numbers of the subs too. THERE ARE MANY GREAT IDAHO CONTRACTORS - USE US!
WWW.ROOFINGEAGLE.COM