The Independent News July 2015

JULY 2015

Volume 6 • Issue 7

JERRY’S REPAIR BEGINS A NEW CHAPTER

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Owners Jerry Taylor and Mike Hicks Retire

By TIN Staff For 40 years, Jerry Taylor and Mike Hicks have owned and operated Jerry’s Repair, providing automotive repair services and parts to residents in Star and throughout the Treasure Valley. The partners have decided to retire and turn the reins over to new owner Jeff Lloyd. Located on State Street, the shop and its owners have been a fixture in Star, and although the business is in good hands, they will be missed.

Jerry Wagoner originally started Jerry’s Repair and asked Jerry (Taylor) if he would like to work for him. As time went on, Jerry Taylor became a partner, Mike joined the company as a mechanic, and eventually, Jerry (Taylor) and Mike became partners in the business. Jerry ran the repair side of the business and Mike took over the parts. Conveniently, the name could remain the same!

Throughout the years, there has been some hard work, but there have been some fun times as well. In the early years, the land behind the shop was a cornfield, which provided a great opportunity for Jerry, Mike and

a few friends to test out their muzzleloaders. During the late ‘70’s gas rationing, it was not uncommon to see them riding their horses to work to save on gas.

At one point, Jerry and Mike decided to try racing jet boats and recruited Dale Blake of Blake Trailers to build them a boat. They recounted that a few folks thought they were crazy, but they decided to go for it. The naysayers were in for a surprise when they ended up winning the World Championship in 1988. They were also the only Americans to win in Canada at that time. Not bad for a couple of fellows from Idaho!

Back at the shop, when the guys were sometimes driving 23 hours straight to get to a race, Mary Taylor, Jerry’s wife, kept things on track. Both Jerry and Mike were quick to point out that Mary’s contribution to the business through the years was what held them together. She delivered parts, ran errands, did the bookkeeping and was there providing support in any way it was needed.

Many of the area’s farmers have counted on Jerry’s to repair their tractors and farm

equipment through the years and several residents have been customers since the beginning. Anyone that has had their vehicle repaired at the shop is familiar with the “Jerry Test Drive”. Almost every vehicle, for 40 years, has been personally test driven

by Jerry before being released to its owner.

It was Jerry’s stamp of approval that the repairs had been done correctly and the car was ready to go.

Jerry and Mike are ready for retirement; in fact Mike and his wife, Gloria, have already taken a couple of trips and plan to spend part of their time in Cascade. Jerry is enjoying taking things easier and once the hay is done for the season, he and Mary will also be doing some travelling.

Both men reflected that during this last 40 years, they have witnessed a lot of changes in Star, weathered some tough economic times, worked hard, had some fun and made good friends. They are very thankful for the loyalty of their customers, especially the long time ones, and appreciate them all.

As a tribute to Jerry and Mike, the Hometown Celebration Committee in Star has asked them to be the Grand Marshals of the Hometown Parade this year.

Look for them at the front of the Parade on July 4th at 3 p.m.!

By Philip A. Janquart STAR – The 2015 Star Quilt Show is set for July 17 and 18 at North Star Charter School in Eagle, Idaho. The event, which began with about 50 quilts and 87 participants, has grown exponentially over its short six-year history; organizers are anticipating 130 quilt entries by the July 12 deadline.

Late entries, however, will still be accepted if the current 130-quilt cap has not been reached, according to Quilt Show Chairman Judy Tomkinson, who says 14 vendors have paid for spots this year, including one from Florida.

“It was originally put together in conjunction with Star’s Hometown Celebration,” Tomkinson said of the event. “Some of us got together and decided we needed an activity that might draw some of the ladies to Star.

We thought we could do a quilt show, and that’s how it got started.”

This year the Quilt Show held a “minishow” at Helena Marie’s, a local wine bar in Star. The mini show, held Friday, June 12, was aimed at priming the public’s interest for the big event, providing a sneak peak at what visitors can expect.

“Last year we had 880 people come see our show,” Tomkinson said. “We are hoping for 1,000 this year.”

Giving to the Community Although born of an effort to provide a venue for women at the Hometown Celebration, the Quilt Show has grown into much more, serving as a fundraiser for local organizations in need. There are many organizations seeking funds, so Tomkinson and others have formed an informal committee, of sorts, that reviews requests and decides where the money goes.

“We have people approach us, looking for funds, like the school or library, but we have also approached those types of groups ourselves,” she said. “It kind of depends on how many requests we get and we cut it off at about five organizations we consider.

There is a group of us that gets together and we decide who we should give to that year.”

This year’s beneficiaries include the Star

Senior Center and the Physical Education program at North Star Elementary School in Eagle.

The money comes via sponsorship fees paid by area businesses and a $5 event entry fee for visitors. Children under 13 are free.

“They (the businesses) pay a $25 fee and get a ribbon with their business name on it,” Tomkinson explained. “Then they come and pick out the quilt they like best and place their ribbon on that quilt.”

The winning quilt, however, is the one deemed the “People’s Choice.” Visitors are given a ballot and asked to vote for their favorite quilt.

The Quilt Show has raised over $11,000 for community organizations since its inception about five years ago.

Continued on page 17

Star Quilt Show organizers, from left, Judy Tomkinson, Gina Stewart, Rae Gunning and Betty Smith.

Mike Hicks (left) and Jerry Taylor looking relaxed and retired

Hundreds of Quilts, Dozens of Vendors to Participate in 2015 Star Quilt Show

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

ECRWSS

POSTAL PATRON LOCAL

VP Quartet Live at the Gazebo pg. 2

Dog Days at Helina Marie's pg. 3

Star Councilwoman McDaniel steps down pg. 17

Happy Independence Day from T he Independent News!

PAGE 2 • July 2015

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Editor’s Notes

Happy summer! Although it feels like we’ve been experiencing summer since about March, it’s finally here, and with that, all the fun events our community has to offer. Be sure to attend Eagle Fun Days, the Star Hometown Celebration, and the Eagle Gazebo Concerts.

These are but a few events that make our community the best there is.

So, I bet you noticed something different when you saw our paper this month. That’s right! We have a new logo!

What do you think? We are really proud of it and want to thank Matt Stanley and his team from Oasis Interactive for Melissa Upton their hard work.

Matt and his team are also hard at work on our new website which will be rolling out very soon. Our goal is to provide an interactive place for our readers and interim news between printings in an attractive, user-friendly, modern way. Stay tuned.

On a personal note, I would just like to thank all of you that have offered your feedback, praise, criticism, and comments about the paper. Keep them coming! I’m coming up on my first year anniversary of acquiring The Independent News; I’ve learned so much about our community and have really enjoyed getting to know you. I look forward to many more years of bringing you your local community news.

Thanks for your support. We wish all of you a safe and fun Fourth of July!

Rerouting of pension bill won’t fly with taxpayers

By Wayne Hoffman

DEQ starting July 6. The Republican, from Bennington in eastern Idaho, need only stay on the job for 42 months in order to cash out with a retirement larger than many Idaho families earn in a year. His nearly $6,000 annual pension will rise to more than $44,200 per year, thanks to a special carve-out that applies only to state legislators.

I’d bet Hill is sincere in his reasoning to detour a bill that could have direct implications for Tippets. It’s also worth noting that Republican Sen. Dean Cameron, another member of the Senate Commerce Committee, also recently landed a job at the Department of Insurance.

Still, it all feels just a little icky. This is Otter’s fourth appointment this year of state senators to high-paying state government jobs. And earlier this year, a bill that would have stopped Tippets and Cameron and other ex-legislators from getting a pension payoff from the executive branch quietly went away, buried in a drawer belonging to the Senate State Affairs chairman, Curt McKenzie, of Nampa.

Hill says he didn’t give any direction to McKenzie to either hear or not hear the bill.

Last legislative session, a bill suddenly disappeared from radar, and only now do we know why: It had the potential to impact the retirements of people serving in the state Senate.

The bill in question is the one that would have stopped legislators from padding their pensions by taking a state government job. After passing the House, the bill was expected to land in the Senate Commerce and Human Resources Committee, where it was promised a hearing.

Instead, it meandered to a different committee and died without a vote.

Senate Pro Tem Brent Hill of Rexburg

explained Wednesday that he rerouted the measure because the Senate Commerce Committee chairman, John Tippets, was quietly being considered by Gov. Butch Otter for an appointment to head the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

“I had heard rumors that the governor was considering him as a possibility,” Hill told Idaho Reporter.com. “Now that the governor has made his announcement regarding the appointment of Sen. Tippets, you can see why it would have been unwise to refer the bill to his committee.”

Otter announced that Tippets will run the

By Melissa Upton On July 30 from 6 - 9 p.m., the Van Paepeghem (VP) Quartet will perform at the Gazebo Concert Series at Heritage Park in Eagle. The VP Quartet consists of Shirley Van Paepeghem on lead vocals, Quinn Van Paepeghem on guitar, Patrick Kurdy on drums, and Mike Seifrit on bass. Performing jazz standards with their own unique style, the VP Quartet has been making beautiful music together for the past ten years.

TIN sat down with Quinn and Shirley Van Paepeghem to talk about their musical lives together. They are both lifelong educators and performers.

Shirley commented, “I had two older sisters. My mom sang to us from birth on.

Whether we were snapping beans, shucking corn, or in the car: we’d all be singing … I knew from the time I was in middle school that music would be a big part of my life.”

Her bio is impressive: Shirley Van Paepeghem performs annually as a guest soloist with the Kings of Swing Big Band at the Sun Valley Jazz Festival, and as a guest on the “Ladies Sing” concert in Sun Valley as well. She has also sung as a guest artist with the Central Oregon Community Big Band in Bend, Oregon. She also sang back-up for Barry Manilow in her college years.

Shirley performs regularly in the Boise valley with her own jazz quartet. Shirley is an elementary music specialist, Level 2 Orff Certified. She has been teaching K-8 music since 2003 at North Star Charter School in Eagle, Idaho. Prior to that, she taught Middle School, Elementary School and Private Voice in Bend, Oregon. Shirley’s Master’s Degree titled “Integrating the Arts in Education” is from Lesley University. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Boise State University. Mrs. Van Paepeghem developed and directed the Youth Choir of Central

of the Vocal Jazz Ensemble and assists in the music education program at Boise State University.

Quinn is an avid jazz guitarist, and has played in both large and small ensembles. He has performed with the All-Star Big Band in the Cascade Festival of Music (Bend, OR), and played for Karrin Alyson, Pete Cristlieb, Alyssa Schwary, Bobby Shew and others. Prior to coming to Boise State, he was director of choirs and at Mountain View High School (11 years) in the West Ada School District outside of Boise. Prior to MVHS, Quinn directed the choirs at The VP Quartet: (L-R) Quinn, Shirley, Mike Seifrit Bend Senior High School in Bend, and Patrick Kurdy Oregon for 19 years.

He currently serves as the Vocal Jazz R & S Oregon’s Debut Choir, which provided choral chair for Idaho ACDA, and is Past President experience and vocal training to children in of Idaho ACDA. Quinn was the organizing grades 3 through 8. Her area of teaching exchair for the 2015 NAfME Northwest Honor pertise is the young voice through adolesJazz Choir. His is co-founder of the Treasure cence. She has served as consultant for a National Arts Assessment Pilot Program. She Valley Vocal Jazz Camp, held each summer in the Boise valley. He received his Master’s is currently Past President of the Idaho Orff degree in Music Education from the UniverSchulwerk Association. Shirley has been a sity of Oregon, and his undergraduate degree frequent clinician at state, regional and nafrom Boise State University. tional Music Educators Conferences. She is While in high school at Meridian High, the Repertoire and Standards chair for the Quinn became friends with Patrick Kurdy, his state chapter of the National Association for future drummer and the current President Music Education (NAfMe), and she was a CoChair for the National Women’s Honor Choir of the Idaho Jazz Society. When the Van for the American Choral Directors Association Paepeghems returned to the area from Oregon, they contacted Kurdy about getting (ACDA). an ensemble together locally. Kurdy contacted Quinn also had two older musicallyMike Seifrit who had played with Tina inclined sisters who played piano. When the Turner, Three Dog Night, and Rick Springtime came for Quinn to choose an instrufield; and the VP Quartet began. This summer ment to learn, he wanted a unique experience from his sisters and so chose the guitar. the group will be joined by two special He fell in love with it and with all that music guests: Mike Rosenthal on piano and Sandon Mayhew on saxophone. Rosenthal had to offer – especially jazz. teaches band at West Junior High and MayHis bio is equally remarkable: Quinn Van Paepeghem is currently director hew is a “Boise legend” in the music world.

EVERYONE HAS A STORY:

For his part, McKenzie told IdahoReporter.com that he believes only a citizens’ commission that sets legislative compensation can affect a change to legislative retirement. “I just think it should come through that commission,” McKenzie said.

There’s sizeable debate about whether McKenzie’s view is correct. Nonetheless, McKenzie made the bill go away by unilaterally shelving it, when he could have held a hearing and allowed the question some air.

Hill wants the public to view the unfortunate demise of the pension payoff bill this way: Tippets and Cameron were prevented from being faced with an awkward conflict of interest that they weren’t able to publicly articulate: They were rumored to be in line for state jobs.

But to others, it now looks as though members of the Senate orchestrated the demise of a bill that would have ended the very lucrative taxpayer-supported nest eggs their now-former colleagues will receive.

Both versions probably bear some truth.

The latter is just damaging enough of a narrative to really make taxpayers very angry.

Quinn and Shirley Van Paepeghem of the VP Quartet Making Beautiful Music Together

Quinn and Shirley Van Paepeghem

The Gazebo Concert Series starts at 6 p.m.

It is a free event. Be sure to bring a chair or blanket on which to sit, relax and enjoy the music. This is a must-see group!

To catch the VP Quartet with their special guests this summer at other fun venues, check out their Facebook page or their schedule below: July 5 • 4-7 p.m.

Sawtooth winery in South Nampa July 26 • 4-7 p.m.

Sawtooth winery in South Nampa July 30 • 6-9 p.m.

Eagle concert series in Heritage Park August 14 • 7-8:30 p.m.

Council Idaho concert series August 15 • 5-9 p.m.

McCall Jazz on the Green at golf course August 16 • 4-7 p.m.

Sawtooth winery in South Nampa August 23 • 4-7 p.m.

Sawtooth winery in South Nampa August 30 • 6-9 p.m.

Sandbar at The Riverside in Boise Sept. 6, 13, 20 & 27 • 4-7 p.m.

Sawtooth winery in South Nampa

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

COMMUNIT Y

Helina Marie’s Bar Hound Red Carpet Fundraiser

Duncan, 1 of the 3 Musketeers, pictured with his proud owner, Helen

By Mickie Park Helen Collinson, owner of Helina Marie’s Wine Bar, Wine Shop, Gifts & Decor is always going above and beyond for the community of Star while also supporting various groups and organizations.

Saturday, June 13th, Helina’s held the first Bar Hound Dog Day Afternoon. The Bar Hounds fundraiser was in support of the Idaho Humane Society. The Idaho Humane Society is the largest and oldest animal welfare organization and veterinary charity in Idaho. They provide shelter, food, medical attention and homes for abandoned and abused animals. Along with educating Idahoans about the proper care of their pets and how to prevent animal overpopulation, they also focus highly on being kind to animals.

Pooches from all over were invited to an afternoon of socializing and strolling through Star. With a small entry fee the Bar Hounds and their owners enjoyed treats, hors d’ oeuvres, a costume contest, photos, K9 Label Wine Tasting and of course water for the Hounds. After Caitlyn Jenner won the costume contest, all the hound participants and their owners paraded through town.

All proceeds and donations went directly to the Idaho Humane Society. The event was so successful and full of fun, the pooches are already planning on next year’s costumes.

Frank, the New Orleans Hawaii Bound Bassett Hound

Best friends Richelle from Meridian & Shana from Arizona with their Bar Hounds.. Paris The German Shepherd with buddy Diesel and Eddy & Javelin Even Caitlyn Jenner (aka Gus) arrived in Star for the Red Carpet Fundraiser

Judge Colleen Collard announced the proud winners for the 1st Bar Hound Benefit … 1st Place: Helen with Caitlyn Jenner & 2nd Place Richelle with Paris….Way to go Hounds

The Red Carpet Tour paraded through town as individuals loved on the Bar Hounds & supported the 1st Humane Society Benefit

Check out our website www.theindnews.com for up to date information on where to donate blood.

Blood is always needed, but even more so in the summer months.

July 2015 • PAGE 3

PAGE 4 • July 2015

COMMUNIT Y

Breaking News...

Our community reads TIN from cover to cover.

Advertise with us and get noticed.

Contact Randy at 794-6858

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Eagle Residents Sickened By Boise Co-op Salmonella Outbreak

By Philip A. Janquart ready-to-eat food. People need to be using BOISE – The Central District Health gloves. That’s one of the things we look at Department has confirmed several of the in any inspection or investigation.” over 250 reported cases of Salmonella Legal Trouble stemming from an outbreak at the Boise Full cooperation with the health departCo-op involve Eagle residents. ment does not mean the Co-op cannot potenThe Co-op, located in Boise’s north end, tially be held liable for alleged damages. So is a “member-owned food cooperative and far, two lawsuits have been brought against marketplace that educates and connects our the Co-op in Idaho’s Fourth District in Boise. community to high-quality, natural, organic Plaintiff Francisco Pantoja bemoans in a June foods and specialty products,” according to 18 complaint that it may be months before its website. “bowel habits” return to normal.

Boise’s health department has identified “A small number of persons who are inthe Co-op’s deli, where sandwiches, salads fected with Salmonella will go on to develop and other products are served to the public, pains in their joints, irritation of the eyes as the source of the Salmonella outbreak. and painful urination,” the complaint states.

The outbreak is not confined to the “This is called Reiter’s syndrome or reacTreasure Valley. tive arthritis. It can last for months or years, Sandwiches provided by the Co-op to and can lead to chronic arthritis, which is kiosks at the Boise Municipal Airport were difficult to treat.” also found to be contaminated with the What is Salmonella? disease, resulting in out-of-state reports.

Theobald Smith discovered the bacterium The health department said exposure to Salmonellosis in 1885, but the organism was the disease occurred between June 1 and named after American veterinary pathologist June 10.

Dr. Daniel Elmer Salmon who headed the “Original reports were linked to a tuna U.S. Department of Agriculture’s research sandwich,” Central District Health Departprogram on the disease. ment spokeswoman Christine Myron told Salmonella is a bacterial infection characTIN. “We are still in the process of investigat- terized by diarrhea, fever and abdominal ing, but so far the number of reported cases cramps that occur between 12 and 72 hours is around 250, but not everybody goes to the after infection. doctor and people have varied physical reac“The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and tions to the disease, so there could be more.” most individuals recover without treatment.

She added that, “We have had some resiIn some cases, diarrhea may be so severe dents of Eagle report that they had salmothat the patient needs to be hospitalized,” nella symptoms and had eaten at the Co-op according to the U.S. Centers for Disease after June 1st. A few of the calls today were Control and Prevention. “In these patients, from Eagle residents. However, I don’t have the Salmonella infection may spread from access to address information, so I’m unable the intestines to the blood stream, and then to find out just how many are Eagle residents to other body sites. In these cases, Salmoamong the 250 associated with the outbreak.” nella can cause death unless the person is Point of Origin? treated promptly with antibiotics. The Myron said a preliminary investigation elderly, infants and those with impaired report showed food samples of raw turkey, immune systems are more likely to have a tomato and onion as the source of the severe illness.” contamination.

Myron added that the severity of the “Lots of vendors also provide food to the disease depends on many factors. retailers, but we “It really can have not heard of vary between any other cases people, ranging outside of the from no sympCo-op,” she said, toms to mild adding that crosssymptoms, or contamination some end up occurs through in the hospital “handling raw because of meat, even with dehydration,” plastic gloves, she said. “It’s and then turning far worse for to prepare propeople who duce.” have auto imMyron said the mune diseases.

Boise Co-op linked to salmonella outbreak department met Salmonella with Co-op owncauses about a ers for over two hours to discuss the deli’s million illnesses in the U.S. every year. There processes for food preparation and to listen are about 380 deaths and 19,000 hospitalizato their risk reduction plan, detailing how tions per year.” they are going to move forward to reduce Myron did not say if anyone in the Treasfood borne illness. ure Valley reporting Salmonella symptoms “Part of their plan includes installing two after eating at the Co-op deli between June 1 additional sinks that will keep separation and 10 were hospitalized. between foods and color-coded cutting A note posted outside the Co-op states boards to keep them separate,” she said. that, “We deeply regret any illnesses result“They also plan to ramp up employee food ing from this outbreak” and provides the safety training.” health department’s contact number at (208) Myron said that personal hygiene is also a 327-7499. factor in passing the disease along to others, Follow this link to get more information but that it is too early in the investigation to on the Co-op outbreak:http://www.cdhd. say if that was a factor in the Co-op’s case. idaho.gov/news/current/2015-06-16-Salmo“Hand hygiene is really important in food nella-Outbreak.htm. For more Salmonella safety,” she explained. “Hand washing is background information, log on to critical when there is hand contact with www.cdc.gov/salmonella.

Give So More Can Live

Star Blood Drive Monday, July 20th from 3pm-6:30pm

at the Star Library Parking Lot Call Rita at 208-286-7153 to make an appointment

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Joe’s View

I have been watching one of my neighbors get ready to put their home on the market to sell it, which I am sure it will do quickly. It is a nice place. Observing this process reminded me of the last time my wife and I sold our home. We worked like crazy finishing up all the little details we had let go.

Like the neighbors did, we de-cluttered, we painted, we repaired, and we organized.

We finished the final 5% of the many projects we (OK, I) started. And when it was all done, the place looked pretty dang good! So good in fact, we wondered why we were leaving it all behind now!

As an ex-remodeling Contractor, I still continue to get the questions about making improvements prior to putting a home on the market. Within this, there has to be a differentiation between improvements and repairs.

I would always encourage you to make any and all repairs to a home before offering it for sale. One broken or missing component to a house can set a tone of skepticism as to the remainder of the quality.

Improvements, however, become both interesting and questionable. The outside of the house could be painted for multiple reasons. The old paint is failing and in bad shape. Yes, paint the house. Or, the old paint is fine, but not the most current color.

Questionable; how can you try and guess which color a buyer will like? Perhaps it is best left alone?

Carpeting. Fresh carpet is nice. It feels good underfoot but much like paint, it is hard to outguess a buyer. You can spend a lot of money on new carpets just to find out the buyer is discounting your efforts because they want to put in hardwood floors.

We could go through yes / no reasoning on every element of the house. You would either agree or disagree on every one of them.

This is because we each have opinions on what is right and what is necessary. Just keep in mind a few things: in most cases, you will not get what you spend back on the sale of the house. Remodeling statistics* for 2014 show about 68 - 73% of a dollar is recovered. (*Remodeling Magazine: Cost Vs. Value Study) But, you might sell the house quicker because it is nicer than others at the same price, and for most people, that is a worthwhile trade off. Selling quicker could mean 3

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.

PRESS RELEASE

Deadline to compete for Mrs. Idaho nears

The Mrs. Idaho America Pageant is now searching for representatives from across the state to compete at the 2016 Mrs Idaho America pageant.

The pageant will be held October 3rd at Capital High School Auditorium in Boise.

The Mrs. Idaho America Competition is the official state preliminary to the prestigious Mrs. America Pageant.

Delegates must be of good moral character, married, at least 18 years of age, a US Citizen and a resident of Idaho. Areas of competition include Personal Interview, Physical Fitness and Evening Wear.

Sign up now and attend a complimentary pageant workshop, August 1st. More info at www.mrsidahopageant.com or email mrsidahoteam@yahoo.com.

or 4 less mortgage payments you do not have to make and those dollars can offset what you do not get back on the new kitchen.

Also, you can go full tilt and try to bump your house up a few notches by giving it a total makeover. You may be able to move a $175K house up to $229K. A lot of this will depend on what comparable homes are selling for and what is in the neighborhood around you.

Listen to the Real Estate Agent in which you have selected and put your trust. All your friends will have opinions. This will just confuse you. Real Estate Agents only get paid if you sell.

One last thing I will throw in. Make your lawn, flower beds, garden, deck, pastures and barns look magazine quality. Usually this is just a lot of hand-work, fairly low cost, and very time consuming. However, a lot of buyers just keep on driving if they see a jumbled up, difficult to maintain, jungle of a mess in front of the house. They want to take on a lifestyle, not a lifetime of work. Make your home look like it is simple, clean, tidy, and easy to care for. This they will want. Trim the trees, open up the street view, cut the grass every three days. You need to live and care for the house as if it is being evaluated at every moment. Because it is! And get a home inspection to see what you missed prior to listing. Insert the “Trees for the Forest” analogy here.

July 2015 • PAGE 5

We on this continent should never forget that men first crossed the Atlantic not to find soil for their ploughs but to secure liberty for their souls. ~ Robert J. McCracken

PAGE 6 • July 2015

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

CIT Y OF EAGLE

Around Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . . By Mayor Jim Reynolds

This year marked the 9th annual Field of Honor celebration at Merrill Park. A spectacular display of 600 American Flags was enjoyed from May 16th to the 26th. Most were identified by the accompanying yellow ribbon noting a friend or relative who served in our military. It gave me the opportunity to recognize two of my cousins: SSgt Jonas Reynolds who served in Iraq, and his brother, Spc. James T. Reynolds who had a tour in Korea and special assignment to Afghanistan. For many a veteran, it was an opportunity to remember our fallen comrades and deal with the survivor’s guilt that plagued many of us on return from combat. Special thanks to Kathy Coburn and Heather Parades who work tirelessly with other volunteers to make this a reality each year.

Les Chateau des Fleurs, the 17,000-square foot building under construction at Camille Beckman’s, promises to be a stunning venue for weddings, conferences and special events.

Chateau des Fleurs is the brainstorm of Susan and Foad Roghani, owners of Camille Beckman. It will feature a high-end French restaurant, Le Coq d’Or managed by restauranteur, Franck Bacquet. Guests will dine on the finest cuisine amid magnificent columns, graceful arches and European art. After dinner, visitors can stroll through the beautiful gardens where many of the flowers displayed and produce served is grown. This stunning chateau inspired by the palace of King Louis XIV should be ready for a grand opening in September.

The Boise Philharmonic’s summer concert series, alas, will not be heard in Eagle this year. To the dismay of Music Director Robert Franz and many other supporters of the summer pops, the Board of Directors

concluded they could not afford to continue the concerts without more financial support from the community. This is not to say that Eagle citizens are not willing to fund such events. Unfortunately, the Philharmonic’s fund-raising campaign for the summer series has always been conducted in the spring of the year, while companies nearly always put their budgets together in the fall. If all goes well with our Philharmonic campaign this fall, we will see the series again in the summer of 2016.

Recently at the YMCA’s Annual Meeting, I was surprised and delighted to see the interest in adding a “Y” to the proposed tennis club at the southeast corner of Highway 44 and Edgewood. This addition would provide a swimming pool for kids and parents to enjoy along with traditional programs offered by the Y. Several of our citizens would like to see the Eagle Urban Renewal help fund the measure. The question remains of how appropriate it may be for the EURA to help develop projects on “green fields,” as opposed to addressing urban blight. It will undoubtedly take the participation of the Eagle community to make this dream a reality.

There has been plenty of discussion and suggestions from Eagle folks about the future of the Saturday Market now that the City has taken its management. At the recent Association of Idaho Cities, I attended a presentation on Farmer’s Markets by Karen Ellis, manager of the very successful Boise Farmer’s Market. Karen and others shared some of the factors that have made their Farmer’s Markets successful. The City of Moscow has been operating their Market for 38 years and it is now host to more than 150 vendors each week. We can learn much from their success.

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 JUNIOR VETERINARIAN CAMP 6-10 yrs. Do you love animals? Join us for a week of animal discovery! We will learn what it takes to be a veterinarian while meeting different animals. Along the way, we will play games, interact with animals, and go on fun field trips!

Guerber Park • 5 days | $145 7/27-7/31 • M-F • 9 am-4 pm Early drop off (8 am) or late pick up (5 pm) available for $6/hour/day

ADULT PROGRAMS

PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS:

IT’S A SMALL WORLD CAMP 3-5 yrs. This half day camp will introduce children to games, art, stories and music from around the world!

Each day of camp will include learning about different regions of the globe.

Merrill Park• 4 days | $52 7/6-7/9 • M-Th • 9 am-12 pm

YOUTH PROGRAMS

SKYHAWKS MULTI-SPORT CAMP Monday-Thursday, July 13-16 Skyhawks multisport camp is designed to introduce athletes to a variety of different sports in one setting.

For this program we combine basketball, soccer, and football into one fun-filled week.

Merrill Park • Cost: $110 • 6-9 yrs, 10 am-3 pm TREASURE CAMP 6-10 yrs. Have you ever dreamed of discovering a treasure trove? Campers will learn the basics of geocaching, letterboxing, and treasure finding in this fun camp! Throughout the week, treasure-hunting experts will join us to share their explorations and treasure hunt stories. We will go on hikes around Eagle to search for treasures and hidden clues, make treasure crafts, and play games! Merrill Park 5 days | $145 • 7/20-7/24 • M-F 9 am-4 pm Early drop off (8 am) or late pick up (5 pm) available for $6/hour/day

*For all programs: Preregistration is required at www.cityofeagle.org/recreation

EAGLE FUN DAY RUN- 5K & 10K Saturday, July 11 Join us for the 3rd annual Eagle Fun Day Run through the beautiful streets of Eagle. Runners can choose to run a 5K or 10K and will be served a delicious breakfast after the race.

City Hall • Cost: $29 • 8:00 am CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT (ADULT) Saturday, July 11th The Inaugural Eagle Fun Days Cornhole Tournament will be a blast! Come show off your beanbag toss skills for the chance to win your own set of cornhole boards. Downtown Eagle Cost: $10/team of 2 people • 5 pm-10 pm

FAMILY PROGRAMS

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT (FAMILY) Friday, July 10th Are you the cornhole champion in your family? Prove your skills in Eagle's Inaugural Cornhole Tournament!

This beanbag toss game is a fun activity for all skill levels. Tournament champions will receive their own cornhole set (board and bags) to take home. Teams must be made up of two people.

City Hall • Cost: $10/team of 2 people • 5-8 pm EAGLE FUN DAYS Friday, July 10- Saturday July 11 Eagle Fun Days is back! Join us Friday for family night at City Hall with a penny carnival, BMX bike demos, cornhole tournament, and more. Saturday features the Fun Day Run, wet n’ wild parade, adult cornhole tournament, gazebo entertainment, and fireworks!

City Hall, Downtown Eagle • Free!

GAZEBO CONCERT SERIES Thursday, July 29 The Gazebo Concert Series is a free concert series on the last Thursday of the month, May-September.

Bring a blanket and a picnic, or enjoy food from Eagle businesses. Heritage Park • Free! • 6-9 pm

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

DEADLINE:

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July 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.

July 2015 Contributors:

Jason Alderman, Gretchen Anderson, Bob Arnett, Patrick Calley, Norma Dawson, Anna Eaton-Merkle, Rita Gambino, Cathy Hardy, Wayne Hoffman, Kim Ingraham, Philip Janquart, Trina Kubitchek, Kyle Kurscheidt, Joy Lear, Joanne M.W. Love, Mickie Park, Joe Prin, James Reynolds, Caitlin Straubinger, Tamara Sullivan-Watson, Loni Trude, Melissa Upton, 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.

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The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

CIT Y OF EAGLE

EAGLE LIBRARY July Events

Summer Reading will runs through Saturday, August 1

~~~~~~~~~~~ ON-GOING PROGRAMS ~~~~~~~~~~~

Monday, July 6, 13, 20, 27 Baby Readers: 10:30 a.m. (birth – 18 months) Stories, songs, and fingerplays for babies and their caregivers.

Monday, July 6, 13, 20, 27 Knee Deep in LEGOS™: 2:00 p.m. (ages 6+) Weekly program for children ages 6 – 12 to use their creativity in building/designing with LEGOS. Tuesday, July 7, 14, 21, 28 Toddler Time: 10:30 a.m. (18 months – 3 years) Stories, songs, and crafts for toddlers and their caregivers.

Tuesday, July 14 Alzheimer’s Support Group: 2:00 p.m. (adults) Co-sponsored with Alzheimer’s Association Greater Idaho Chapter, the Eagle Public Library offers support for individuals and families whose lives are touched by Alzheimer’s.

Wednesday, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Music & Movement: 10:30 a.m. (birth – 5 years) Early literacy skills are built through rhythm and motion in this interactive program for young children and their caregivers.

The Library will be closed on Saturday, July 4 for Independence Day. and on Saturday, July 11 for Eagle Fun Days.

Wednesday, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Tales to Tails: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. (ages 5+) Increase your reading ability and confidence by reading to man’s best friend from Helping Idaho Dogs. Registration is required; contact the Youth Services staff at 939-6814, ext. 113.

Wednesday, July 8, 15, 22, 29 Teen Advisory Board (TAB): 4:15 p.m. (teens 14+) Earn volunteer hours, socialize with your peers, and help your Library!

Thursday, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Preschool Story Time: 10:30 a.m. (3 – 5 years) Stories, songs, and crafts with an emphasis on school-readiness skills.

Friday, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Ready, Set, School! 10:30 a.m. (3 – 5 years) Stories, songs, and crafts, with an emphasis on school-readiness skills.

Friday, July 3, 17, 31 Nutty Knitters of Eagle Public Library: 10:00 a.m. (adults) Local knitters and crocheters provide infant, youth, and adult knit products for those in need. Join them to knit for charity, or to make friends with people with common interests. Or, if you want to learn to knit, stop by; you’ll receive a lot of free advice. If you don’t want to knit but would like to help, the Nutty Knitters will gladly accept donations of yarn, which may be left at the Library’s front desk. For more information, visit the knitter’s website: nuttyknitters.weebly.com.

The Briefing

July 2015 • PAGE 7

with Chief Calley

The last article we shared introduced Peels Principles of Policing, and I was thrilled to get several comments on the piece. As we go on from that point, I would like to specifically address the 7th Principle. “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.” Let’s see this live and in our town…

• In May, the City of Eagle hosted Clean Up Eagle Days. What a privilege we have to be part of a community where well over 100 volunteers stepped forward to clean up areas of the town. These volunteers know that a sharp looking city suppresses crime.

• The Eagle community has many Homeowners Associations and Neighborhood Watch groups that “police” their paths, parks and pools. They preserve strong “neighborliness” that is critical to the American culture.

• The Eagle Building Administrator and Planning and Zoning staff work in close relationship with the EPD and other departments to insure our city is strong, healthy and crime resistant. (CPTEP: Crime Prevention through Environmental Design… whoa! We will address this in a future article)

• Something so simple… while on a lunch run down State Street, I watched a driver go by with a soda can on the roof of his truck.

The can blows off … and the driver stops to the side, gets out and picks up the can!

That is what it is about, doing the right thing.

While we do things right, we can always do things better. Some of those things are very simple; • Lock your car doors and keep valuables out of sight. This alone would reduce the Eagle crime rate.

• Drive patiently and with regard to others.

We are experiencing a spike in crashes related to speed and following too closely.

Thank you for your time, support and care.

The men and women that serve as your police officers here in the Treasure Valley are some of the very best in the country. We all have a role in this public duty. Stay safe.

~~~~~~~~~~~ SPECIAL PROGRAMS ~~~~~~~~~~~

Wednesday, July 1 Independence Day Fun: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) You’ll make an amazing Independence Day fan and enjoy a red, white, and blue ice cream sundae.

Thursday, July 2 Matinee Movie: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) Because of Winn-Dixie Monday, July 6 Henna Tattoos for Teens: 4:00 p.m. (middle/ high school) This is your chance to be creative using this ancient body art. Henna tattoos are temporary and last two to three weeks.

There will be henna tattoos, laughs, and fun!

Tuesday, July 7 Matisse for Kids: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) Learn about the artist Henri Matisse and how he created masterpieces from cut-outs. Try your hand at this technique.

Wednesday, July 8 Eagle Fire Fighters: 2:00 p.m. (6 – 12) Meet the guys who put out fires – the local heroes from the Eagle Fire Department.

Thursday, July 9 Matinee Movie: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) Tinkerbell and the Legend of the Neverbeast Thursday, July 9 Second Thursday Book Club: 6:30 p.m. (adult) Bel Canto Friday, July 10 Teens Create the Wafflest Things: 1:00 (middle/ high school) Waffles aren’t just for breakfast anymore. Use a waffle iron to make cookies, banana bread, and waffled spaghetti with meatballs.

Monday, July 13 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 Forrest Gump.

Tuesday, July 14 Open-Mic Day for Kids: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) Want to tell your favorite joke, perform karaoke, or have your own poetry reading. This is your chance. Just step up to the microphone. Finish the afternoon by watching classic cartoons.

Tuesday, July 14 Bug Superheroes! How Bugs Can Save the World! 6:30 p.m. (all ages) Mark Hotchkiss will tell us why bugs are beneficial to plants and soil. Bug superheroes will provide entertainment for the whole family!

Wednesday, July 15 Totally Terrific Tie-Dye Day: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) At this family event, bring your own cotton t-shirt or other item and let your inner super hero artiste loose! And, you’ll experience a tasty summertime treat.

Thursday, July 16 Matinee Movie: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) Brave Friday, July 17 Teen BINGO: 1:00 p.m. (middle/high school) It’s loud! It’s extreme! It’s teen style!

Monday, July 20 Life-Size Game of Clue: 4:00 p.m. (middle/high school) There has been a murder! WHO DID IT? WITH WHAT? And WHERE? You are the game piece in the Life-Size Game of Clue.

Tuesday, July 21 Meet the Eagle Police: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) Visit with the City of Eagle Police and learn everything you always wanted to know about the police.

Wednesday, July 22 Heart of Hero: 2:00 p.m. (elementary school) Storyteller Paige Moore explores modern day heroes such as Luke Skywalker and Harry Potter in this interactive musical program.

Thursday, July 23 Matinee Movie: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) Big Hero 6 Thursday, July 23 Apps for Everyone and Everything: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) Learn how to find and download fun and helpful apps.

Friday, July 24 Friendly Feud: Heroes vs. Villains: 1:00 p.m. (middle/ high school) The classic game show becomes a battle between the good and the bad.

Saturday, July 25 Red Cross Blood Drive: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

(16 years old and older) Help your community by donating blood at this American Red Cross-operated blood drive.

Make an appointment and check donor eligibility requirements at redcrossblood.org or at the Library. This event is organized by the Eagle Public Library’s Teen Advisory Board.

Saturday, July 25 Saturday Creations: 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Marbled Pots. Transform a clay pot into a work of art with nail polish and a bucket of water.

Tuesday, July 28 Van Gogh for Kids 2:00 p.m. (elementary) Listen up! It’s time to learn about The Starry Night, The Sower, The Irises and more. Will your Van Gogh inspired masterpiece be as great?

Wednesday, July 29 Animal Heroes 11:00 a.m. (elementary) Dynamic children’s author Kelly Milner Halls presents her engaging stories of animal heroes.

Thursday, July 30 Matinee Movie: 2:00 p.m. (all ages) The Black Cauldron

www.eaglepubliclibrary.org

Over 100 volunteers worked to make our town a nicer place to live during Clean Up Eagle Days.

Scout Troop 077 with Den Leader Kevin Platts. This troop has completed several service projects for the city.

PAGE 8 • July 2015

EAGLE NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Eagle Rodeo Grows 15 Percent in 2015, Anticipates Future Expansion

By Philip A. Janquart Eagle Rodeo founder Tracy Baggerly probably never anticipated the event he started 14 years ago would explode into what it has become today – a four-day event that kicks off the rodeo season in Idaho and attracted some 10,000 spectators this year.

Baggerly, who grew up on a dairy farm off Linder Road in Eagle, says he started the rodeo as a way to give back to the community.

It is a not-for-profit event that contributes funds to about three to four beneficiaries every year. Past beneficiaries have included Ada County 4-H, various Boy Scout troops, the Bull Catcher Wrestling Team Camp, the Eagle Ada County Sheriff’s Department, Eagle Chamber of Commerce, Eagle Food Bank, Eagle High School Drama Club and many more over the years.

2014 Idaho Rodeo Queen Dusty Olson.

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.

Groups seeking funding are always welcome to apply to become a beneficiary and do not have to be from Eagle.

This year, the rodeo provided support, in part, to Love INC Boise, an organization that “encourages a hand-up through one-on-one mentoring, teaching budget and life skills.”

The Eagle Rodeo helped support the organization through a newly created food drive called Stomp Out Hunger, which invited rodeo visitors to bring canned food to help fight hunger in the Treasure Valley.

“We used to hold the rodeo in conjunction with the Eagle Fun Days celebration, but the dates changed and we wanted to remain the season opening rodeo so we decided to keep it they way it is,” Baggerly said. “We aren’t affiliated with the city or with Fun Days, but we’ve grown every year since we started.”

The rodeo currently takes place on vacant land slated for the Plaza Drive extension and can be seen from Highway 44.

“The location is great and the land owners are very generous in letting us use it every year,” Baggerly explained. “We’d love to buy it, but they are asking something like $4 million or $6 million for it. Plus, they are planning to punch Plaza Drive all the way through at some point, so we are actively looking for another piece of land.”

For now, however, Baggerly says the Eagle Rodeo Committee is looking at buying a new arena to accommodate the growing crowds.

The cost, he says, is between $35,000 and $40,000.

“Yes, the ground has been for sale for years, but if we could get a permanent lease somewhere, we really want to expand the rodeo,”

he said. “We are thinking about VIP suites and some other things, and going PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association).”

Baggerly said he would be remiss if he did not mention the many area sponsors that make the rodeo possible, including his biggest sponsors HC Company, Inc. and Mountain West Bank.

For more information, log on to www. eaglerodeo.com.

Bronc riding opened the 2015 Eagle Rodeo.

You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism. ~Erma Bombeck

By Gretchen Anderson

COLLEGE TOURS

Attention, college recruiters! Wake up!

Your tour guides aren’t doing you any favors.

How do I know this? My family and I have met them. From coast-to-coast, we have been repelled from schools because of well-meaning, but fundamentally untrained students (and some staff) leading college tours. There have been a few diamonds in the rough and those people have made the differences in their school making the short list of college choices.

Our kids have gone far and wide for their educations: North Carolina, Florida, New York and Utah. Not a Vandal or Bronco in the lot… Though I have been on a Boise State tour with a friend and her daughter (who ended up graduating from BSU). I must say, it was a good tour. It was the same friend who suggested to me that we should schedule college tours “whenever we travel,” so we could get a baseline for our reviews of colleges and universities. (Plus, they often give you some sort of swag like a free t-shirt, woo-hoo BONUS!) One Thanksgiving break, before Helen was to make a college decision, we took the week off and toured five schools in Utah and Wyoming. She was prepared with her questions for the tour guide: • Why did you decide to attend this college?

• What do you like best about this school?

• What do you like least about this school?

• If you could change anything about your college what would it be?

At one Wyoming college, we were teamed up with an energetic student ambassador from Honduras. We started the tour and Helen got her questions answered in short order. After walking around their campus for about 15 minutes, he led us past the library, the student union building and the fuculty offices.

Yep, you read that right. He said, f-u-c-u-lt-y.

Mr. Man and I looked at one another, independently thinking, “Surely, we just heard that wrong.” And then, he said it again, “Our fuculty members have an open door policy.” That’s when we looked at the kids. Wide-eyed and with raised eyebrows, they couldn’t believe what they were hearing. All three kids had to stifle laughs. I swear the tour guide used the term f-u-c-u-l-t-y more than 10 times during our visit. Needless to say, that school didn’t make the list.

A couple summers ago, we took Bubba to New York and visited a small, liberal arts college. Before the tour, a staff member led a group orientation meeting. He espoused all the wonderful benefits of the college, the graduation rate and proximity to Broadway.

But, then he launched in to tell the prospective students that, “Seventy-five percent of you WILL NOT work in the business.”

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I sat in my little chair, in the little room, and thought, “thanks Mr. College Tour Guide for just dashing the dreams of a dozen kids.”

Again, that school didn’t make the short list. Bubba didn’t even get a t-shirt.

Our last kid, Margaret will soon begin looking at potential schools. You would think after going through this four times before, we should be pros. But, I guarantee there will be more stories derived from those well-meaning but essentially untrained tour guides. Stay tuned.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

A Teacher’s

July 2015 • PAGE 9

EDUCATION

Perspective

SILVER AND GOLD

By Anna Eaton-Merkle month or once a year, it was easy to fall right I am one of those lucky kids who had a back into that comfortable old friendship. great best friend growing up. When we were I am writing about this now because my little, we became friends mostly because our beautiful best friend has just turned 50. This moms were friends and we both had sisters says to me more than any other indicator who were two years younger. In the world that I am next – she always was the pioneer of parenting, this is known as perfect playin our relationship. And I marvel at how date potential. I remember summer looming many lifetimes we have been through toahead in early June and the two of us plangether. Her effortless smile, dramatic flair, ning backyard carnivals, imaginary wagon creative energy inspired many of my best trail rides, and endless trips to the city pool. memories. Never mind the fact that some There were arts and crafts, library afterof those qualities also got me in trouble on noons, floats for the town parade. Snow multiple occasions; I wouldn’t trade any of it. cones, church camp, play house, bike rides, How wonderful it is to have had a friend for sleep overs. When we got a little older there almost my entire life - at least as long as I were bowling leagues, boy crushes, and can remember. babysitting adventures. It is safe to say that Once in a while my kids will say, “Oh we we did everything together for most of our aren’t really friends anymore.” When I ask younger lives – best friends through thick further, there hasn’t been a fight or anything, and thin. more like they have just drifted apart. This As often happens, we did grow apart when is something that is profoundly foreign to we got to high school. I was more into me, because I believe one should never let go sports, she was more into drama. We never of a friend. They are like money in the bank really had a falling out – just different interand really, the only wealth that matters at ests. Time passed and we hung out less and the end of your life. It is okay to take a less. New friends came into play, all the breather from a friendship that isn’t doing more interesting because they were differmuch at the moment, but don’t feel like that ent. High school became a whirlwind of means discarding it. I tell them, “Once a dances and volleyball and boyfriends and friend, always a friend” and I believe it. parties. My best friend and I still had newsThere really isn’t much more to this paper and poetry in common, but our social observation than just the old adage: Make lives were very disconnected. No hard feelnew friends but keep the old. I have been ings really. In fact, we were both so self-abreally blessed in my life with lots of great sorbed that we probably didn’t even think friends over the years. Some were transitory about it.

- fun in the moment but we grew apart.

College came and it was more of the same. Some were interest based – we played We started out together but quickly moved in basketball or volleyball or taught together but opposite directions. I plugged along as an couldn’t find much of a connection outside undergraduate and she joined the Navy after of those common activities. Some were part one year. Then careers put us in different of a larger group of friends but not necessarparts of the country on a fairly consistent ily directly connected to me. All have been basis. It would have been really easy to lose dear to my life and all would be welcome touch all together but we didn’t. After all around my table at any time. But those those years, we still had this friendship lifelong friends – the ones who have become clinging in the back of our minds, almost twined almost by DNA to the very core of like some sort of familial connection. We who I am – those are the ones that are to be were in each other’s weddings, welcomed cherished. I have had a few of those rare new babies and new homes. Got together beauties in my life and I hope to have more when we could, talked on the phone when as I move on towards 100. But my first and we couldn’t. And even after all that time, best friend will always the standard on whether we talked to each other once a which I have set the bar.

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.

SENIORS! Are you paying too much for your Medicare Supplement?

By Bob Arnett FYI, Medicare Supplement and Medigap Policy are interchangeable terms. Let’s face it, seniors that have a Medicare Supplement REALLY LOVE THEM; including my wife and I and especially if they have a Plan F or a Plan G. As long as the Doctor, Hospital etc. accept Medicare the Plan F covers everything that Medicare does not cover including excess charges. The Plan G however, which is becoming more and more popular, covers exactly the same as Plan F except for the, once a year, $147 copay for Medicare Part B. The difference between the premiums is usually much less than the $147. Example: For a 65 year old an Aetna Plan F is $150.19 a month and Aetna’s Plan G is $115.95, the difference is $34.24 a month. $34.24 x 12 = $410 88 $147.00 = $263.88 saving per year with a Plan G over their Plan F. *Multiply that savings times two for a couple, every little bit helps!

As folks get older their Med. Supp or Medigap policy premium slowly gets more and more expensive. The one thing to remember is that all Med Supp plans, A, F, G, N etc. cover the same thing no matter which company sells it. All Plan F’s are the same, all Plan N’s are the same etc.

Those benefits are controlled by the government. What isn’t the same is the monthly premium that different companies charge for them.

Example Given; for a new 65 year old, a Plan F premium can be anywhere from $128.00 per month to over $200.00 for that same plan. Once the copay and or premium is satisfied there are no more out of pocket costs. This gives the senior, Peace of Mind and the knowledge they are

always within budget.

Insurance companies have different experiences with different age groups and/or different plans. They set their rates depending on whether they’ve had good or bad experiences with a group or plan or maybe even, what they think they can get, LOL! Companies that sell Medicare Supplements are allowed to use medical underwriting to decide whether to accept your application due to your health situation. There are only a couple of times they cannot hold your health against you.

One is when you turn 65 and another is if you have lost credible Medigap coverage out of your control i.e. the company discontinues your plan in your state. Otherwise if you are healthy you won’t have a hard time being accepted but if you have some health challenges you may not be given the coverage and have to go to a Part C Advantage Plan.

Here is a reference for you to use at the Idaho Department of Insurance to compare Medigap rates: http://www.doi.idaho.gov/shiba /sh medigap.aspx The rates are a little off but you will get the idea on the different rates companies charge.

BTW, Medigap policies don't cover long-term care, vision or dental care, hearing aids, eyeglasses, or private-duty nursing. BTW, I have a Great Dental/Vision/Hearing plan available. As far as changing Medigap Plans, it can be done at any time during the year. (Unlike Advantage Plans) Call me, Bob Arnett, or your agent with any question at 208 570 8390; go to my website for more information www.alisprotect.com.

The will of the people is the only legitimate foundation of any government, and to protect its free expression should be our first object. ~ Thomas Jefferson

Everything that is really great and inspiring is created by the individual who can labor in freedom. ~ Albert Einstein

PAGE 10 • July 2015

THE ARTS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Memory Man is an Enthralling Mystery

By Tom Wick Amos Decker retired from the NFL after his first and only play. “The hit was played millions of times on YouTube, and not only has he never seen it—he doesn’t remember it.” But after he woke up from the hit, he could remember not just something, but everything after the hit.

Multi-bestselling author David Baldacci has created, in Amos Decker, the best averageman detective in the genre. Unable to play football anymore, Amos decides to be a detective. With his infallible memory he aces through the police academy and quickly becomes a detective. Until someone from his past kills his family. Falling into depression, a year and a half later “he hit rock bottom.”

Amos, lost without his family, loses his job on the force, his house, car, and loses touch with all of his friends and family. He lives in a cardboard box and now weighs 350 pounds.

Living in an equally depressed town with high unemployment and high crime, Amos sometimes will still visit his old home. Long in foreclosure, “the bank never even took the time to clean up the blood.”

One day, though, he visits his home, and the psycho that has killed his family has left a personal message for him. And then someone confesses to the crime. More people are

killed—with the same gun that killed his family.

Unsure what to do, he is visited by his old partner and she tells him that their captain would like to hire him as a consultant to help solve the crime. Amos, as one could imagine, is confused about trying to solve this crime but the captain reminds him that these crimes “are personal and the only person who has seen the perp is you.”

Amos takes on the monumental task of not just working the case like a detective but also at the same time going through twenty years of memories to see “who he dissed.”

As he gets closer to solving the mystery he learns that it’s not just one person but they’re intentionally using his memories to take him down the wrong path.

Baldacci has written almost thirty novels, some of which have been made into movies directed by Clint Eastwood. Memory Man is intended to be the first in a book series starring Amos Decker as a consultant for the FBI. The novel is fast-paced and enthralling.

If you’ve never read any of Baldacci’s work, Memory Man is a great place to start.

Check out our website for more stories, updated events and more.

www.theindnews.com

Death by Pizza Challenge at Westside Pizza in Star

By Mickie Park The “Death by Pizza” Challenge is a food challenge offered by all chains of Westside Pizza. A food challenge in general is where a specific prize is awarded for the completion of a specific meal or quantity of food while following the rules and regulations of the restaurant.

Star Westside Pizza owners, Matt and Sasha Johnson, received a food challenge from Max Carnage from Portland Oregon.

His challenge was to eat an 18” Grand Size Pizza with all the toppings including pepperoni, beef, bacon, sausage, ham, mushrooms, olives, pineapples, onions, and green peppers in under an hour. While in the challenge you can stop, walk around, but you cannot leave. It may sound easy, but it is not.

Max has traveled around for the last 3 ½ years doing food challenges at different locations. He has won hot dog and onion rings challenges, has eaten over 4 lbs. of Sushi, but one of the toughest challenges was with the spicy burrito.

Max can now add to his list of victories the Westside Pizza “Death by Pizza” Challenge. Max finished the pizza in under 25 minutes! He beat the record and was able to walk away with $100 in his pocket and free pizza in his belly.

The “Death by Pizza” challenge is open to all. So, if you are up to it, stop by.

Westside Pizza is located at 1200 W. Hercules Drive #100 and can be reached at 286-9030. Along with pizzas, they offer appetizers, pasta, salads and desserts.

Westside Pizza Owner’s Matt & Sasha Johnson with Star’s 1st Westside Pizza Challenge Winner, Max Carnage

Max, accepting the Challenge to eat the Grand Size Pizza 18” in under an hour

With headphones on to concentrate, Max WON the Challenge under 25 minutes

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

BRAVO! COMMON MEN, UNCOMMON VALOR film showing benefitting Eagle Field of Honor.

Showing on July 2, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.

Northgate Reel Theatre, 6950 W. State St. Garden City, Idaho.

BRAVO! COMMON MEN, UNCOMMON VALOR is a feature documentary produced and directed by Idaho filmmakers Ken and Betty Rodgers. This highly acclaimed film explores the reality of the historic 77-day siege of Khe Sanh, Vietnam, in the early months of 1968.

14 Marines and a Corpsman, today, recount their personal experience, including returning to their homeland, which did not want to hear their story.While a stunning history lesson, BRAVO! is also a contemporary story, as a new generation of soldiers comes home from the Mideast. The reality of these stories is as compelling as any fictionalized account of warfare, and offers an urgent message of righting the wrongs of previous responses to the warrior’s return.

This is a film for veterans, family members and for human service and medical providers who serve veterans; it is for historians, sociologists, students, and for those who simply want to better understand the human cost of war. The film was edited by Vietnam veteran John Nutt, a BAFTA award-winning veteran of the film industry. The final remix was done at Skywalker Sound in Marin County.

One showing only, limited seating available. Only 110 tickets will be sold. Tickets can be purchased online at http://bit.ly/eaglepayonline or in person at City Hall.

All proceeds will benefit the Eagle Field of Honor, an annual event in the City of Eagle that displays 600 American flags, each honoring a military veteran. The Field of Honor is a 501 (c)(3) organization.

Tickets can be picked up at Will-Call at the Northgate Reel Theatre (6950 W. State St. Garden City, ID), on July 2, 2015 between 5:00 p.m. and 6:45 p.m.

Celebrate on July 3 in Marsing, Idaho

Marsing's Chamber of Commerce invites you to our 3rd of July celebration in Marsing, Idaho beginning at 6:00 PM. We will have cool activities for the kids and food trucks available with delightful eats. The Lion's Club will hold their famous Annual BBQ Beef Dinner.

Dancing with "DJ Flow." A breath-taking fireworks display will be held over the Snake River. For more information please call the Marsing City Hall at 208-896-4122.

Celebrate the Marsing way!!!

For information on how Loni's balloon artistry can promote your business call

Loni Trude - Author/Balloon Artist

208-442-7268, email loni@BalloonArtist Idaho.com or visit BalloonArtistIdaho.com July Submission PSA sponsored by: The Marsing Chamber of Commerce

Sun Protection

By Dr. Kyle Kurscheidt Spring has passed and summer is upon us.

As the temperature rises and the days grow longer we pull out our shorts and t-shirts, but do we all still make sure to use proper skin protection?

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF), having 5 or more sunburns in your life doubles your chances of developing Melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer. The SCF also reported that 42% of people get sunburned at least once each year, easily surpassing the 5 sunburn mark.

What can we do that is safe and effective at protecting our skin from sun damage? Here is a brief list of safe, natural ways to stay sun safe this summer.

1. Stay in the shade. When outside during summer, seeking the refuge of awnings or trees can save your skin. Especially during the hours of 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. when the sun is most intense.

2. Wear loose breathable long-sleeved shirts and pants that cover your skin, but still allow for you to stay cool in the hot summer months.

Fabrics that allow this are linen and cotton.

3. A broad-brimmed hat is a must. The most commonly sun damaged areas of body are the face, nose, and ears. A broad-brimmed hat will allow for protection to all of these areas.

4. Avoid tanning booths. Although safer than sunlight, tanning booths still cause skin cell damage. The accumulative effect of tanning over time can have a major negative effect on your overall skin health.

5. Last but not least, make sure to apply adequate amounts of sunscreen to your skin when participating in outdoor activities. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen of 30 SPF or greater.

Living in the Treasure Valley, we are blessed with numerous outdoor activities to participate in every summer and there is no reason to avoid enjoying everything the Valley has to offer. However, exercising these simple skin protection tips during the summer months is critical for your short term and long term skin health.

July 2015 • PAGE 11

PAGE 12 • July 2015

BUSINESS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Pain Care Clinic of Idaho Offers Alternative to Habit Forming Pain Meds

By Philip A. Janquart Health issues abound across the globe, but are often compounded when drugs are introduced to manage chronic pain.

Prescription drug addiction is the number one crime/social issue facing the city of Eagle, according to the Eagle Police Department.

The Pain Care Clinic of Idaho, however, has an alternative that can diminish or eliminate chronic neuropathic pain while helping to end dependency on prescription medications, and potentially prevent them from getting into the wrong hands by keeping them out of the house altogether.

Habit forming medications are often prescribed to treat a myriad of injury and noninjury related pain issues and can lead to a cycle of unintended addiction that causes patients to suffer unwanted side effects that make them disoriented, mentally “clouded,” lethargic and physically fatigued, to name a few.

Breaking that cycle, on the other hand, can leave patients feeling like they have reclaimed their lives, according to Dr. Edward Boese who brought the Treasure Valley’s only Calmare Pain Therapy system to Eagle.

“Almost everybody that walks into my office would describe it that way, like they have taken their lives back,” said Boese, a board certified anesthesiologist and Harvard

trained Diplomate of the American Board of Medical Acupuncture, and the only physician in the Treasure Valley who, through his Pain Care Clinic of Idaho, offers Calmare Pain Therapy.

“My patients say that while on so many medications, they had trouble orienting themselves to family and jobs, and lacked clarity because of the sedative effects of the meds, and some of them said it was worse than that, causing them more pain just from the side effects.”

What is Calmare Pain Therapy?

Calmare is a revolutionary and advanced solution for high intensity neuropathic and oncologic pain. Boese says the non-invasive and non-narcotic system is delivered via “the new Calmare therapy medical device,” which was cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2009.

There are only about 40 of the machines used commercially in the United States.

However, the military has many more, using them at Walter Reed Medical Center and other military hospitals to treat wounded soldiers.

The therapy, which Boese says has between an 80 and 90 percent success rate, is delivered by electrodes to healthy tissue surrounding the area of pain to send “a non-pain signal that says this is not pain

Pain Care Clinic of Idaho celebrated a ribbon cutting in April.

(Photo courtesy of Mike Olsen)

The Calmare Pain Therapy machine

and retrains the central nervous system.”

Chronic neuropathic pain comes through damaged, non-functioning nerves that “behave erratically.”

“Calmare Therapy intercepts these erroneous pain signals and replaces them with ‘no-pain’ signals that are sent to the brain,” he said. “It retrains the central nervous system to re-interpret these pain signals as non-pain messages in the brain. It is because of this process Calmare Therapy is also known as Scrambler Therapy.”

Boese adds that several teaching hospitals in the U.S., including the Mayo Clinic, John Hopkins, Massey Cancer Center and the Paul Carbone Cancer Center, are successfully treating chronic neuropathic pain with Calmare.

Some of the conditions treated with the system include chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, RSD (reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome), CRPS (complex regional pain syndrome), trigeminal neuralgia, postherpetic neuralgia, phantom limb syndrome, post-surgical and traumatic neuropathic pain, low back pain, neck pain and sciatica.

“There are no known side effects, unless you include breaking out of years of time in a pharmaceutical prison,” he said. “I got involved in this because there are many medical problems that are not being handled adequately, that are falling through the cracks.

This system offers an alternative to pain without having to walk out on to the pharmaceutical plank.”

Boese stressed that the treatment is not for injury-related pain, but for neuropathic pain he loosely defines as pain caused by the central nervous system’s misinterpretation of touch, pressure and other sensations, which can result in “false” reporting to the brain.

People receiving chemotherapy treatments, or those with diabetes, often experience neuropathic pain in their hands and feet.

Boese added that “Chronic pain is a very different animal than acute pain, which is why drugs used in acute pain don’t work.”

He says prescribing narcotics for neuropathic pain only masks the symptoms.

A Typical Case One of Dr. Boese’s patients, who preferred to remain anonymous, said she was taking a laundry list of meds to treat her pain, along with secondary medications to treat side effects caused by the first set of medications.

“My family calls it an absolute miracle,” said Niki, a self-described, former “hermit.”

Niki, 58, says she lived that way for 14 years because of chronic pain she battled using heavy-duty painkillers.

“I was taking Fentanyl lozenges, oxycodone, meloxicam and Seroquel for sleeping,” she said. “Add to that list Lyrica, anti-inflammatories, steroid injections, morphine, sleeping medications and antidepressants. This treatment has made a dramatic difference in my life. My family calls it an absolute miracle – they have their old mom back!”

The system is only a few years old, so very few insurance companies cover the treatments.

Signa and United Health provide coverage, according to Boese who says a few others provide coverage on a case-by-case basis.

“Once the hospitals start learning about it, there will be healthy competition and the insurance companies will want to provide coverage,” Boese said.

For information, call Deb Boese at (208) 939-3750 or on her cell at (307) 389-5345, log on to www.paincareclinicof idaho.com, or visit the office at 742 E. State Street in Eagle.

The Pain Care Clinic of Idaho offers an alternative to the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain.

Sidewalk Talk

Summer officially began on June 21st, 2015, and what’s the best part of summer? This group all agrees, it’s “swimming and hanging with friends”

Starfish Ellie Conley

Renee Ross & Tate Hurley love floating The Boise River

Caitlin Scott almost nailing down her back flip

Austin Vilardi AND Joshua Tate racing to the bottom

July 2015 • PAGE 13

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Ways to Save Money on a Last-Minute Summer Trip

By Jason Alderman If you, your partner or your family want – or need – to get out of town right now, how do you improvise a great last-minute trip without breaking the bank?

Planning is essential. Embrace travel as a hobby – look for tricks, techniques and current online resources to keep abreast of the best last-minute deals.

Compromises will be necessary. You'll likely need to travel at off-peak hours (either the first flight out in the morning or the last one at night, usually on weekdays) and stay at hotels or venues off the beaten path.

Here are some quick tips to save money on last-minute travel: • Travel light, move fast. Traveling last-

minute isn't for the indecisive. Dedicated travelers are minimalists – they know what to pack, organize their paperwork and payment options and have the mental preparation to deal with problems and challenges along the way. Also realize that last-minute travel can increase risk and other costs. If you're planning a trip that requires travel insurance, (https://www.insuremytrip.com /learn/travel-insurance-basics/when-tobuy.html) you may not get coverage approval in time.

• Build the right online resources. The Internet has revolutionized most forms of purchasing goods and services, but for travel, it has offered unprecedented speed and customization. Use top travel sites that have

Steve’s Auto Care Grand Re-opening

Steve’s Auto Care celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Star Chamber of Commerce in June. Steve’s parrots, blue and gold Murphy (seated on Steve’s mom, Jeannie Nail’s shoulder), and Bubba (sitting on Steve’s shoulder) joined the fun.

Don’t Ignore Preventive Maintenance Anyone who's ever worked on cars or spent a ton of money getting them repaired will tell you “Don't Ignore Preventive Maintenance.” Regular preventive maintenance is probably the most important thing you can do as a car owner to keep your vehicle happy and save money on future repairs.

However, not everyone agrees on what preventive maintenance is, what you should do and when you should do it.

So let's clear that up with some tips that apply to any vehicle.

The basics, like changing oil, checking tire pressure, getting scheduled inspections and changing filters are like getting regular check-ups at your doctor. They keep you healthy and give you (and the experts) a chance to catch anything serious before it becomes a major problem.

Check the oil and have it changed regularly. While the oil is being changed the technician can determine if there is an oil leak. The most common practice for changing oil is every 3 months or 3000 miles. If a Synthetic Motor oil is being used, an interval of 5 to 7 thousand miles (based on the specifications of the manufacturer) is recommended.

Check your battery and clean the contacts. Most batteries these days do not require much in the way of maintenance, but you should know where it is located.

They can be located in the engine compartment, under a seat or in the trunk. Battery terminals do develop a corrosive build up, an acid accumulation from contacts of the cables. A battery brush could help with that, but be careful not to get the acid on your clothing or in your eyes. Acid on your clothing could be activated by water and leave a nice little hole.

Inspect belts and hoses.

On belts, look for cracks, cuts and tears. On coolant hoses, watch for leakage by feeling for swelling or hardness of

the hose. The life of a timing belt varies widely by manufacturer. In this case it’s best to stop by Steve's Auto Care so we can look up the vehicle specifications to determine the manufacturer’s Steve Green recommendations. of Steve’s Auto Care Replace your windshield wipers when the view starts to get streaky. I know it may seem silly, but I've known people who just ignore their wipers until they have them replaced as part of a bigger job. Wipers are inexpensive and easy to replace yourself in just a few minutes. Don't wait until a rainy day and find that you cannot see clearly. Windshield wipers are absolutely critical to the safety of you and your passengers, so keep them in good condition.

Replace the engine air filter and cabin filter. Vehicles need to breathe and a dirty engine air filter will block critically needed air going to the engine. This will result in poor fuel economy, bad performance and could prevent your vehicle from starting.

The cabin filter protects everyone in the vehicle from 99 % of impurities and pollens that enter through the ventilation system.

Steve's Auto Care is located across the street from the Star Mercantile. We offer a 12 month 12,000 nationwide warranty on all of our services and will check many of the preventive maintenances mentioned above at no charge.

Free towing, pickup and delivery in Star City Limits.

This is a Paid Advertorial

Steve's Auto Care (208) 863-2748

a tested track record and broad listings of various travel products, but be on the lookout for new travel websites and apps launch every day. Some airlines now offer their own last-minute fare sites, but try to sign up for email alerts and social media feeds from a variety of travel resources so you won't miss a deals on air, hotel or ground transportation.

Also, layovers are good to build into your itinerary as long as you don't have to pay for a hotel and take a moment to compare the price of two one-way tickets – possibly from competing carriers – against round-trip tickets at single carriers. You might save.

• Test new lodging options. The new generation of apartment and spare-bedroom sharing sites and longtime online vacation home rental services offer last-minute and in some cases "day-of" lodging possibilities, but keep in mind that online scammers (http://www. practicalmoneyskills.com/rentalscams) have entered this territory and all transactions should be verified independently. Staying in hostels is not just for students and backpackers anymore; there are hostels that aim for older travelers as well. Getting on the phone also works in the hotel industry – check online prices against what you can find by calling up the hotel's booking number and ask if

there is a lower corporate rate or special for the period of your stay.

• Compare ride-share with car rental. If you think you're going to need to drive at your destination, check car-rental rates against leading ride-share companies available at the touch of a smartphone screen.

Many ride-share companies allow you to get advance pricing estimates in advance. Also keep in mind what it might cost to park the rental car in your destination city – rideshare will help you avoid that expense.

Finally, evaluate every membership connection you have. Start by looking at all the plastic you have in your wallet. From your credit cards to the membership card for your main professional networking group and even to the auto club that tows your car, can you take advantage of any travel benefits you can leverage on a last-minute trip? Take some time to review those benefits – or look at them for the first time.

Bottom line: Last-minute travel is almost always possible as long as you're willing to do a little homework and improvise.

Jason Alderman directs Visa's financial education programs. To Follow Jason Alderman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PracticalMoney.

PAGE 14 • July 2015

BUSINESS

On Your Marks: The Right Fit Matters

By Melissa Upton Need athletic footwear? Athletic apparel?

Look no further than On Your Marks Running & Walking store in Eagle. Owned and operated by Richard and Patty Marks, On Your Marks is your best bet to finding the right fit at the right price. Some may think that because this is a “specialty” athletic store that the prices will be outrageous and so they head online or to a big box store for the best prices. The lowest prices, however, do not usually mean the right shoes for your feet.

When you shop at On Your Marks you get quality: quality footwear by exceptionally well-trained staff. You also get a price match guarantee: if you can find the same shoe at a lower price elsewhere, bring it to On Your Marks. They will match it.

When talking about pricing, Marks explained that athletic shoe companies carry different lines, which translates to different quality. The “technical” line is what is sold at On Your Marks. The “active” line, also called “garbage” line by certain companies, is what is sold online or at big box stores.

Customers think they are getting a good deal by shopping online or at a big chain, when in reality they are neglecting their feet and the rest of their bodies. This neglect can cause serious injuries now and chronic musculoskeletal problems down the road.

What you also get when you shop at On Your Marks is the sole reader. The sole reader is a computer that analyzes your feet and shows infrared images that help the staff at On Your Marks determine the category of shoe that is right for you.

Marks stated, “There are four categories in shoes [in the technical line]. Whatever the gait cycle is, the computer gives us a very clear picture of the foot while it’s moving…it

On Your Marks is located on Plaza Drive between Bricknowlogy and Grinker’s.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

customers shouldn’t be loyal to any one brand because “shoes change every year.”

The same brand and model of shoe is made differently and therefore fits differently from year to year.

On Your Marks also has an incredibly knowledgeable staff. The Marks’ stated they will not put a staff member out on the floor until they know what both Patty and Richard know. They said it takes about 6 months of training before a sales associate is ready to go on the floor.

As school athletic programs start their practices next month, before logging on to get that “great deal” online, remember On Your Marks offers: • Extraordinary staff knowledge • Superior, friendly customer service • State of the art analysis of your feet for the right fit • Personalized fittings • Price match guarantee • A local, small business option No big box or online store can measure up. Visit On Your Marks, located at 228 East Plaza Drive in Eagle, log onto their website: http://www.onyourmarksgo.com/, like them on Facebook, or give them a call at 208-939-6757. On Your Marks, set, go!

takes a picture of that motion…from that we can assess what category of shoe that person should be in.

“It is very common for us to put 5, 6, 7 pairs of shoes on one individual during a fitting because we don’t want the most comfortable option [for the customer] of that class sitting in the backroom. So we’ll bring everything out in that category so the customer’s foot is really making the decision. We’re going to help them decide the category; their foot’s going to decide the brand.”

On Your Marks offers the highest quality athletic shoes and He stressed that apparel at affordable prices.

Advertise in The Independent News and get more BANG for your buck Direct mailed to 16,000 households and businesses, web advertising and marketing, social media push and articles about your business.

What are you waiting for?

Call for ad rates today.

Randy Miskimon 794-6858.

As mankind becomes more liberal, they will be more apt to allow that all those who conduct themselves as worthy members of the community are equally entitled to the protections of civil government. I hope ever to see America among the foremost nations of justice and liberality. ~ George Washington

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

TRINA’S

STAR NEWS

FITNESS CORNER

July 2015 • PAGE 15

Bathing Suits, Shorts and Tank-Tops Oh My

I am hearing the buzz from my clients, "Trina I need to be bathing suit ready for my trip in 10 days.

What can I do to make this happen?"

The answer is simple. However it will take some consistency and discipline. Here are some tips to get you on the right track: • Grocery shop with seven days worth of food in mind. This way you have stocked shelves and are less likely to order out when getting home from a long day.

• When cooking dinner, cook enough to have some leftovers. You can freeze what is left for another night or have it for lunch the next day.

• Pack your lunch the night before. Be prepared for a long day at the office and knowing that you may not get a lunch break. Stock up on 'easy to eat foods'.

Skipping meals is not allowed!

• Skip the dairy. About 75% of adults are sensitive to dairy. Or if you must have your yogurt – make your own. It is simple with

the right tools.

• No bologna, ham, salami, pastrami or corned beef. Choose turkey or chicken.

• Eat wild fish – not fish that is farmed raised.

• Serve up fruit. Any kind! Try dipping your fruit in nut butter.

• Skip the grains. Phytates, gluten and lectins are three poisons our bodies can live without.

• Think color with Veggies!

• Limit baked goods. This is the 2nd leading source of saturated fat in our diets.

• Hydration is the key to keep your body running like a champion. So drink up!

• Space your meals about 2-3 hours apart.

Eating often keeps the metabolism burning hot.

• Eat as many veggies are you want. Think small with everything else. A fist size is one serving of fruit. The size of your checkbook is your protein serving size. 3 dice is the size of your fats.

This lifestyle change can happen not only for your trip but for everyday living.

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

Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty. ~ John Fitzgerald Kennedy

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 ULY 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

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

Fireworks Banned in Areas of Unincorporated Ada County

Ban applies to areas not covered by fire departments or districts

(Boise, ID) – This week, the Board of Commissioners signed a resolution banning fireworks in unincorporated areas of Ada County. This ban specifically applies to the unincorporated areas which are both outside of city limits AND outside of a fire protection district. The ban will remain in effect through October 31.

The valley’s hot and dry summer weather, along with dry grasses, brush and other vegetation, create an environment in which fires can start and spread very quickly, as unfortunately we have seen in recent days.

With the Fourth of July holiday coming soon and fireworks stands about to pop up around the valley, Commissioners are issuing this ban to help prevent fires in our open and rural areas of the county that are not covered by fire departments or districts.

Areas within city limits or that are covered by a fire protection district are subject to their city or fire district’s regulations for use of fireworks. Residents are cautioned to check the specific area regulations prior to using fireworks at any location.

As outlined in Ordinance #760, the ban on fireworks in Ada County takes effect each year from June 1 through October 31, when there is a significant risk for wildfire.

Per this Ordinance, Commissioners sign a new fireworks ban Resolution each year if they determine a severe fire threat exists due to current conditions. According to the Ordinance, any person using fireworks in unincorporated Ada County outside of established fire protection districts during this ban, could be charged with a misdemeanor.

Ordinance #760 and Resolution #2057, as well as a map of areas where fireworks are prohibited in unincorporated Ada County, are available atwww.adacounty. id.gov or via the links below.

City of Star Meetings

Star City Council Meetings

1st and 3rd Tuesday • 7:00 p.m.

Star City Hall

Star City Hall

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

The Independent News can be found at these and other locations: Eagle: • Albertsons • Burger Den • Busters • Big O • Eagle City Hall • Eagle Chamber of Commerce • Eagle Library • Idaho Athletic • Justos Tesoro • Les Schwab • Perks of Life • Rembrandts • Shady Acres • St Al’s-Eagle • St Luke’s-Eagle • Winco Star: • Star Library • Star Merc • Star Café Meridian: • Fred Meyer, Linder at Chinden • Stinker, Eagle Road Middleton: • Ridley’s • Sunrise Café • The Cottages If you would like us to add your business to our distribution list, please call 550-3111 or email us at theindnews.story@gmail.com

PAGE 16 • July 2015

CIT Y OF STAR

The Century Link challenge was a big success

Star Outreach collected 4981 lbs of food and $487 thanks to community generosity.

The bike rodeo was well received the bike are being given out.

Thanks for all the donated bikes and Mike's great restorations.

- Its not too late to receive a bike. Sign up at the Star Outreach bldg. Star Outreach needs volunteers. Contact Connie 208-340-2702

Volunteers needed for the community garden - Contact Jerry 871-3046.

Current Needs: Canned spaghetti sauce pasta, peanut butter, bar soap, hotel size shampoo, conditioner and lotion.

If you need assistance or know someone who does we are open every Thursday 3-5 & the third Thursday 3-7 or call 779-0046.

Summer lunch program 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Blake Park Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Volunteers are needed.

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.

July 2015 Star Chamber Calendar

JOIN US - PUT FIREWORKS IN YOUR SUMMER BUSINESS!!!

We wish you a fantastic 4th of July and fun vacations. We do not hold meetings during this month due to most member families and individuals taking July vacations. We wish you safe travels and lots of JULY fun! From your Star Chamber Board of Directors: Tamara, Lavina, April, Kyle, and Michelle!!!

JULY 4th at 3pm- HOME TOWN CELEBRATION PARADE: Please attend the Home Town Celebration. Star Chamber of Commerce has a Chamber of Commerce Convertible Car WITH CANDY FOR THE KIDS in the Parade and businesses are offering raffle prizes for drawings at the Park.

JULY 9th at 5pm – UNITE NETWORKING Star Chamber of Commerce invites all business owners to an (adult only) business event. Located at Hawks Stadium next to the Fairgrounds in Garden City, Idaho. $45 to attend the networking event.

Food, refreshments, great information, raffles and lots of leads. Any business that would like to have a booth, it costs $100 per booth space. Please see more information on our member emails, or you may contact President@StarIdahoChamber.com for more info. 150 top businesses will be present from the Treasure Valley and leaders from local Chambers & business organizations.

The Hawks baseball game starts directly afterwards.

JULY 18th 10am – Noon (Saturday) Star’s “Shredding for Food Donations”: All of the businesses and citizens of Star are invited. Please donate $5 or 5 canned food items for the Food Bank - Bring your personal records, old tax files, paperwork and any paper you need to have shredded for your privacy and ID protection. Maximum 5 boxes.

Committee Volunteers needed: Event/Gov’t Liaison/Communications Committees: Tamara Sullivan-Watson.

Need 5 Event volunteers; and 1 communications volunteer.

Membership Committee: Michelle Glaze. Needs two more volunteers.

Finance Committee: Lavina Gibbs. Quarterly, needs 3 financial auditors Welcome Wagon: April Smith. Needs 3 volunteers Contact the Committee leaders with the Committee title at President@StarIdahoChamber.com Star Chamber of Commerce’s Mission is to Promote Business Success by providing Advocacy, Services, & Information to our Members, & the Community of Star!

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

Star Senior Center

102 S. Main Street, 286-7943 • Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.

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

July 1: July 3: July 4:

July 6: July 8: July 13: July 15: July 15: July 21: July 23: July 27: July 31:

July Activities: Goldmine Newsletter arrives Senior Centers are closed Star Celebration Days including pie contest and auction. Pies are needed.

Have two pies at LifeSpring Christian Church between 12 p.m. and 12:30 p.m.

Pie judging contest is at 12:30 p.m. at LifeSpring Christian Church.

Pie auction is at 5 p.m. and selling by the slice starts at 4 p.m. both at Hunter Creek Park. Any questions call, Norma Dawson at 322-4357.

Walmart Shopping - Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Board Meeting Outing to Chuck-a-Rama - Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Birthday Recognition Music by Bob Comstock Appointment Day/$12 haircuts, bank, doctor appointments, etc. – Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Appointment Day/haircuts, bank, doctor appointments, etc. – Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Outing to Kuna Senior Center - Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Root Beer Floats between 11 a.m. and noon – free

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.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Star Parks and Recreation

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

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, June 27, 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 Tuesday and Thursday 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 and we will get a flyer to you soon. Please see the provided link for people to register off our website. Please let us know if you have any questions. 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.

STAR SUMMER MOVIE SERIES at Blake Haven Park co-sponsored by Star Elementary.

1st Friday of every month. “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” –July 3.

“How to Train Your Dragon 2”- August 7. Movies start at dusk. Popcorn and water provided by local sponsors.

Bring blankets and lawn chairs for your comfort.

5 YEAR BIRTHDAY Star P/R CELEBRATION 8 p.m. July 3rd prior to movie night at Blake Park. *Bring your instrument and, voice for open microphone night preceding Star movie night. A sound system & mics will be setup and ready to start at 8:00p.m.

Email kingraham@staridaho.org to sign up.

Include a brief description of performance & setup needs and please keep content family friendly.

Games and cake will be a part of the festivities as well.

JULY 4th CITY CELEBRATION Hunters Creek Park

FIREWORKS • LIVE MUSIC • PARADE • TALENT SHOW BBQ & more!!!

3rd Annual British Soccer Camp at Hunters Creek in Star - July 20-24. Instruction based upon one of the most innovative approaches to coaching youth soccer in the US and Canada. Experienced staff study the game at all levels and identify the key techniques and skills that your player needs to work on and master to reach their true potential. Ages 3-16. Prices vary.

BRITISH CAMP: https://challenger.mycustomevent.com/ShoppingCart.asp x?com=detailview&imp=f&iid=60901&&returncom=pro ductlist TETRA BRAZIL CAMP: https://challenger.mycustomevent.com/ShoppingCart.aspx?com=detailview&imp =f&iid=60912&&returncom=productlist Co-ed Wiffleball for ages 6 to 11 registration June 1 - June 19. Residents $20.00/ NonResidents $25.00. Season will run Wednesdays 10-11 a.m. August 3-28. Kids do not need any equipment.

Family Feud Friendly Games Register June 1-19. Residents $20/family. Non-Residents $25 /family with family member needing to be a minimum of 6 yrs old. Let the 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 Fall Soccer Registration: July 1 - July 17. Residents $20.00/Non-Residents $25.00 Ages 3 and up (as of July 31,2015): New Uniform kits $25.00 required if your child’s birthday is July 31, 2007 or older. The kit includes jersey, shorts, and socks.

Season will run September 10 - October 24 with some practices starting as early as August 31. Games will vary location/ time. Please refer to website for more details.

Professional Youth Soccer Clinic (optional): $12.00 per child for those ages 6 and up. 1 hour per week for 4 weeks with experienced coaching staff. You do not have to take part in Star Soccer to attend.

Youth Flag Football Registration: July 1 – 17. Residents $20.00/Non-Residents $25.00.

Ages 5 - 11. Practices begin Aug 31, games begin Saturday mornings Sept. 12 - Oct. 24.

Women’s Powder Puff Flag Football Registr ation July 1 – 17. Residents $20.00 Non-Residents $25.00.

Ages 16 and up. Season runs Tuesday nights Sept. 8 - Oct 20

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!!

STAR LIBRARY - July Events The Star Branch Library will be closed on Saturday, the 4th of July.

Summer Reading continues through August 8.

Kids, teens, and adults can earn prizes by reading. Kids and teens will receive Stampede rodeo tickets, Boise Hawks tickets, toys, food coupons, a free book and more for everyone who completes the program. Ask about our online sign-up. What a great way to get your family reading!

Our theme is “Every Hero has a Story!”

7/15: Designing Superhero lairs Mondays: 7/6, 7/13, 7/20, 7/27 7/22: Designing Superhero lairs Pt. 2 EatPlayGrow Story Time (ages 3–5) 10:30 a.m.

7/29: Mini Superhero Movie shoot – making healthy choices fun.

Thursdays: 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23, 7/30 Monday Teen Time (12+) at 4:00 p.m.: Babies and Music (ages 0-3) at 10:30 a.m.

7/6: Shrinky Dinks stories, songs, puppet fun with Miss Jana.

7/13: Cyber bracelets and more e-textiles Maker Time (all ages) at 2:00 p.m.

7/20: DIY Bows and Arrows Insect collecting (suck-a-bug), making salsa, 7/27: Pizza ‘n Books: you bring a book hovercraft and more. you’ve read, we provide the pizza Fridays: 7/3, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31 Tuesdays: 7/7, 7/14, 7/21, 7/28 Music and Movement for all ages, 10:30 a.m.

Star Quilters Kids learn rhythm, coordination and other skills Meet from 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. while moving to music.

Open to anyone interested.

Family-friendly movie matinees at 2:00 p.m.

Special Summer Programs on Tuesdays at on 7/3, 7/17 and 7/31 - call or check library 2:00 p.m. for kids of ALL AGES: website for movie titles. (www.adalib.org) 7/7: Come meet our Police K-9 Unit and Saturdays: 7/25 Firemen Heroes “Beyond the Book” discussion (adults) 7/14: Heart of a Hero – with storyteller takes a break in July Paige Moore Jewelry-making for adults on 7/25, 1-3 p.m.

7/21: Super Hero Social Skills - interactive Please call ahead to register. fun with the Treasure Valley Needed: Your baking creativity for our Cake Children’s Theater.

Raffle at the end of summer Carnival!!

7/28: Puppet Show If you are interested in donating a book Wednesdays: 7/1, 7/8, 7/15, 7/22, 7/29 themed cake, please contact Jana at the Star Star Knitters Branch Library (208-286-9755 or Meet from 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. jgregory@adalib.org). We need to know the Open to anyone interested. theme of your creation by July 10th, and the Super Hero Boot Camp (grades 1- 5) 2:00 p.m. finished product would need to be delivered to 7/1: Gotham City planning the library on August 4th by 1p.m.

7/8: Making Mini Superheroes *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!

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Makayla Walls is the Winner of Steve’s Auto Care, “What Does Star Mean to You?” Artist Contest

Congratulations to young Makayla Walls of Star for her painting of one of the many lovely sunsets we get to enjoy in Star. With her submission she wrote, “I find that Star has some of the most beautiful sunset. This city still holds onto the things that matter in life like watching the sunset with someone you care about, the sense of togetherness, of family and caring about one another. That’s something that’s so rare nowadays, but to me those are things that I use to define Star, Idaho.”

Walls wins $100 for her painting. Moreover, her painting will become a mural on the side of Steve’s Auto Care building. That way, no matter what time of day, everyone entering Star will get to witness our beautiful sunsets as seen through the eyes of Makayla Walls.

Star Quilt Show

Continued from page 1 Guest Participants Businesses aren’t the only ones to sponsor ribbons. Idaho Gov. Butch Otter has sponsored a ribbon the last two years, as well as District 14 Rep. Mike Moyle and State Sen. Marv Hagedorn.

And, the entries don’t all come from women, at least not entirely.

In 2013, Eagle Fire Division Chief (of Public Relations) Nevil Humphreys entered a quilt.

“He took all of his t-shirts from all the places he had worked and had a lady make a quilt out of them,” Tomkinson said. “He put it in the show and received seven ribbons from the sponsors.”

She noted that the event is no longer associated with the City of Star’s annual Fourth of July celebration and soon outgrew the Church on Star Road, forcing them to find another venue.

“It’s a stand-alone event now,” Tomkinson said. “One reason is because the City changed its dates for its celebration and the facility in Star couldn’t be used at the same time. We outgrew it, but we always try to give to some organization in Star.”

The first event took place in 2010 at the Star Community Church on Star Road, but the Quilt Show now requires a venue big enough to display the large pieces and to accommodate vendors, which is why Tomkinson and her cohorts asked North Star if it could help.

“We started in Star and in three years we

July 2015 • PAGE 17

STAR NEWS

Gina Stewart poses with a quilt she made her husband, who requested something that involved a 'wildlife' theme. “He was surprised what I chose, and he LOVED it!” she said.

outgrew the building that we used and the closest thing to Star was North Star Charter School,” Tomkinson said. “They have been very generous to us. You really need a lot of space to display 130 quilts.”

Expanding Across State Lines The entries aren’t restricted to the Treasure Valley, but come from all over, according to Tomkinson who said news of the show has spread by simple “word-of-mouth.”

“It’s grown immensely, and people are talking about it,” she said. “It’s doubled every year. At North Star, we started with the cafeteria, but then had to move to the gym.

I think next year we may need to use both the gym and the cafeteria. We get quilts from New Mexico, Arizona, California, Nevada, Washington and Portland, Ore. The vendors come from Florida and Utah and from our local quilt shops.”

McDaniel Steps Down as Star City Councilwoman

flexible wires that are guided

By Philip A. Janquart into the heart through blood STAR – After almost vessels, according to the three terms, Tammy National Heart, Lung and McDaniel has stepped Blood Institute. down as a Star city counThe wires are connected cilmember, citing a desire to a machine that uses RF to “slow down,” and “make (radiofrequency) energy to send changes in her life.” heat-producing radio waves to Mayor Nate Mitchell destroy heart tissue where presented McDaniel with abnormal heartbeats may cause a plaque commemorating arrhythmia. her nearly 12-years of “Eventually they decided to service at a June 2 council do surgery, to severe the wiring meeting. that was messed up in the Mitchell and fellow heart,” McDaniel said. “That councilmembers expressed Mayor Nate Mitchell presents all started with the stress.” their gratitude for Mcformer Star City Councilwoman McDaniel worked for the Daniel’s contributions to Tammy McDaniel with a plaque Idaho Department of Motor city government. commemorating her almost Vehicles (DMV) for 20 years.

“The rest of the council 12 years of service to the city. She was an assistant manager and I really enjoyed workat the Chinden (Garden City) ing with Tammy,” Star Photo courtesy of location before being asked councilman Tom Erlebach Denice Van Doren. to run the DMV in Star, in 2008. told TIN in a phone interShe served in that capacity for two years before view. “She gave us a woman’s perspective, which is good. She was very level-headed, never being transferred to the DMV’s main location at 400 N. Benjamin Street in Boise. argumentative and added another perspective She now works as a billing agent for on things. We all have a different perspective Truckstop.com, an online freight matching and that makes us work together.” and loading board that matches freight trucks Erlebach said he enjoyed his time with looking for loads to haul.

McDaniel and wishes her the best as she “I completely changed what I was doing,” enters a new phase of her life.

McDaniel said. “We have about 175 employees.

“It was just time for her to make a change,” he said. “It comes down to personal life choices. It’s the largest employer in this area.”

Founded in New Plymouth in 1995, the She finally sold her house in Star and she and company, which is an umbrella for six other her husband wanted to move to Texas; they subsidiaries, has become a multimillion-dollar went down there and didn’t like it, so they operation. came back and Tammy got a job in New She says the changes have served her well.

Plymouth.”

“We sold the house in Star and found five McDaniel’s last official day as a Star counacres in New Plymouth where I got my new job cilmember was May 31. She said her choice to last year,” McDaniel said. “They are very good step down was part of a broader decision to about taking time off for my mom, just very simplify and downsize her life. accommodating. It was another one of those “My mother had a bad year last year; she’s life-changing events, but it has worked out, 86 and her health went bad,” she explained.

“She fell a couple of times and was injured with even though I had to take a cut in pay. With my mom’s deteriorating health, my own health a compound fracture. Then she was diagnosed problems and having to commute 45 minutes with Parkinson’s disease. I went down to Las to Boise everyday, I just realized it was time to Vegas four times last year to help my dad and slow down, that the money wasn’t worth it.” it’s been very hard to balance everything. It’s McDaniel said she is going to miss the city been a long, heartbreaking experience and it’s council because “they were like family,” and hard when you have obligations.” that “We had a tight-knit relationship. It’s Another factor driving McDaniel’s decision was her personal health, which began to deteri- bittersweet because they have been my rock orate under the stress of events in recent years. and I am going to miss the honor of serving.

I’ll never forget it.”

Last year she was forced to travel to Utah Mayor Nate Mitchell could not be reached where she underwent a catheter ablation, a for comment on who the remaining council procedure meant to correct her irregular heart members may be considering to fill McDaniel’s rate, which McDaniel says reached between seat as an interim council member until 170 and 190 beats per minute.

A catheter ablation is a procedure using thin, November’s elections.

Tomkinson said the show isn’t based on the quality of work, but more on the art and enjoyment of the quilt, and is strictly subjective.

It’s not too late to enter a quilt or to sponsor a ribbon. For more information, call Judy Tomkinson at 286-7595, or log on to www.starquiltshow.com or search for the Star Quilt Show on Facebook.

This quilt will be raffled off at the July 17-18 Star Quilt Show.

PAGE 18 • July 2015

STAR NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Star Summer Lunches and Bike Rodeo

By Mickie Park Summer is officially here and so is Star’s Summer Lunch Program. Star Outreach Neighbors Helping Neighbors offers a summer lunch program for ages K-5th three days a week Tuesday through Thursday.

Every Tuesday and Thursday, the lunch is held at Blake Park; on Wednesdays, the lunch is at LifeSpring Christian Church. On Wednesdays LifeSpring opens their gym at 10:30 a.m. for basketball and other activities. Lunch is served 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday lunches are also served between 11:30 a,m. and 1:00 p.m. at Blake Park with Star Librarians reading storytime on Tuesdays and Star Lions serving on Thursdays.

Tuesday, June 16th, Mike Lee with Star Outreach Recycle-A-Bicycle Program held a bike rodeo and double checked kid’s bikes throughout lunch to make sure their bikes were in proper working order. Bike donations, new and used, are always welcome. In 2014, the Bicycle Program gave away 44 bikes to various kids in Star who did not have one. Seventeen of those bikes were given away at Christmas time. As donations come in throughout the year Mike recycles them and takes parts from one bike to another to create a wonderful new refurbished bike. Again donations are always welcome and can be dropped off at Star Outreach in front of City Hall.

Enjoy your summer months and enjoy the wonderful activities Star has to offer.

A special thank you to Rick the Chef and all the wonderful volunteers who help make the Summer Lunch Program so successful

Mike Lee with Star Outreach Recycle-ABicycle Program sharing bike safety tips with local kids from Star

Mom Ali Fields with family & friends enjoying a day in the park & Star’s Summer Hot Dog lunch

Maddie cruzin on her sister’s Cruizer

The Nagy and Doshier Families got up close and personal with the Star Firetruck

Star Librarian, Joy, joins the program on Tuesdays to share several book stories

Hollywood has offered up some slim pickings for movies so far this Summer Season, but not all is lost. If they all can’t be great, they can at least be entertaining. To say that Jurassic World is the best sequel to Steven Spielberg’s 1993 classic Jurassic Park is not just an understatement, it’s unfair. Considering how abysmal parts two and three were, a fourth one could hardly get worse. And thankfully it is not. Still not as great as the first, the movie itself acknowledges this difficult task, “Audiences just keep wanting bigger and better,” Bryce Dallas Howard’s character states.

CGI these days is so awesome, it’s hardly worth discussing. With that said, the final dinosaur battle scene is cinematically amazing and one of the best parts of the movie.

World definitely had some downsides: lots of cheesy scenes, an entirely long and unnecessary scene where Howard’s assistant dies (Why?), and a scene where two boys jump into a river to escape a dinosaur only to crawl out dry. Despite the cheese, there’s nothing like a great dinosaur movie, so worth the twelve bucks.

If you’re not into dinosaurs, San Andreas is the latest in disaster movies. This is definitely a summer movie you go see for pure entertainment. The acting is bad, the story is grossly predictable, and the ending is just the way you want it to be. It’s not my thing, but Dwayne Johnson does get to flash his pearly whites and flex his muscles a lot, so hey, if you like it, go see it. Otherwise, there are so

many close-ups in San Andreas, you could wait for Redbox.

Pitch Perfect 2? Only see it if you like fat-girl jokes and you were a fan of the first.

George Clooney reminds me of Cary Grant; the man has panache. None of which he had in Disney’s Tomorrowland. He was supposed to play some grumpy, irritable old man still upset about a girl he lost some forty years ago.

He didn’t pull it off. I think the director knew old George couldn’t play the part. So the director said, “Hey George, you have too much panache. Maybe if you swear a lot, yeah, I know, it’s a Disney movie, but swear a lot and people will think you’re grumpy.”

Fail.

Tomorrowland is basically a two hour high school graduation speech: we are the generation that will save this planet. You know what? It’s been 10,000 years and no generation has saved (or destroyed) the planet. Give it a rest people. Don’t spend a dollar on this garbage. If your friend invites you over to watch it, find new friends.

The latest version of the period piece Far From the Madding Crowd is the best and a wonderful telling of Thomas Hardy’s classic 1874 novel. Carey Mulligan (who played Daisy Buchanan in The Great Gatsby) pulls off an awesome Bathsheba Everdene. There are not a lot of sweeping country scenes, so seeing it on the big screen isn’t entirely necessary, but it was great entertainment and easily worth my twelve bucks.

uCritic...... By Tom Wick, Universal Critic

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

Urban Farm Girl

If Animals Could Talk

OUTDOORS

July 2015 • PAGE 19

V<>L:”“RX

By Joanne M.W. Love Once down again and pushing, Cheyenne As all signs were indicating last month, our delivered her foal within 15 minutes, using horse, Cheyenne, did indeed have her baby. every muscle in her body to push him out.

It was four days after showing textbook signs Watching a newborns lungs expand to take it’s that labor should start in one to three days (of first breath, inexplicably takes away your own, course we didn’t fall into the textbook window no matter how many times you’ve witnessed it. of time). But even as we grew weary of the Each time, it’s the purest form of a miracle right frequent barn checks, by some miracle, we in front of our eyes. caught the entire birth.

As Cheyenne’s work finished, ours was just We’ve experienced worse in the past. We beginning. The kids, having watched their small once were on nightly barn checks for two solid miracle, met their quota of pictures to post on weeks after relying on 2nd hand due-date Instagram and vanished quickly back to bed. information. Last month, as we approached the My husband and I rolled up our sleeves to begin 4th night of two-hour barn/baby checks, I felt imprinting and desensitizing the foal. The the mentality from the past creeping in (sleep process is most successful if done immediately, deprivation will do that to you). It pervades before the foal has even stood up. your thinking in stages. The first night there’s Systematically, we began repeatedly exposing excitement as you tiptoe into the barn at 3 a.m., the foal to tactile and audible stimuli until not minding how tired you feel.…”Could this the foal was desensitized and relaxed to the be the night!?” By night three, it deteriorates to stimulation. The entire process takes about 35 irritation and anxiety …”Will you hurry up and minutes. This was the 4th foal we’ve imprinted, have this baby already?!” And from the 4th but there was one drastic difference. The past night on, with sleep deprivation building, babies had been fillies (girls); this one was a colt apathy sets in …”You know what? I don’t even (boy). The difference declared itself when ten CARE if you have this baby anymore. I just want minutes into the process, my husband and sleep.”

I were seriously breaking a sweat. The fillies There’s no explanation to had been so agreeable; they’d describe why I stood and fallen asleep while we imwaited a few extra minutes on printed them. “Gus” would that fourth night at 2 a.m. prove to be a different story.

Standing in my pajamas, in the He was stronger, quicker and shadows of the barn so as not decidedly more stubborn. to disturb her, I was well into Feeling like I finished a the apathy stage. Tilting my cross-fit workout, we finally chin up to peer through my ended the session, quickly right, half-opened eye (my left pulling him nose to nose eye takes longer to cooperate with Cheyenne, who was and open in the middle of the still lying down. night), I was met with the As we backed into the shadsight of Cheyenne, doing ows to give them quiet time nothing. As she stood still in together, we listened to them her stall, awake but twitching nicker back and forth, bondher tail, she did NOT look like ing with each other: such a a horse about to give birth small, gentle sound that (she’d been twitching her tail seemed capable of conveying for four days). The list of signs all the heavy lessons of life.

Our new addition, Gus that a horse is in active labor is Our final, early morning long; she showed no signs of task was to move lawn chairs distress. However, for some odd reason, into the dark stall next to them and quietly I decided to lean on a post a while longer, giving observe to be sure Gus nursed within the first my left eye due time to open and join the world. few hours (without which could be fatal). It At about minute four, Cheyenne suddenly was here that we spent the most memorable dropped to the ground and appeared to be sunrise of our lives. As the sun came up, every doing Lamaze labor breathing, quickly accompaanimal we owned, curiously gathered around nied by serious pushing. I ran to the house the stall. NO! WAY! … it was a scene right out waking up husband, kids, and kids’ friends that of “Charlotte’s Web”. Farm animals were sleeping over … SHE’S … HAVING … THE really do have secret group meetings when they … B-A-B-Y!!!!! think people aren’t around? (none of them knew By the time I was back in the barn, hoofs we were in lawn chairs just inside the stall) were starting to emerge. It was now obvious And they were TALKING TOO! (not in English of Cheyenne needed to be moved, as she was course) It was the most spectacular and loudest wedged up against a corner of the stall. My sunrise we’d ever witnessed. Roosters, ducks, husband put a halter on her and pulled her up. birds, cows, horses, sheep, pigs, and a mule were I’m amazed at how calm and trusting she was, simultaneously greeting baby Gus. The entire following him to a safer place while baby’s horse run became enveloped in a cacophony of hooves & legs were emerging out her back end. farm animal noises, each appearing to convey “Awkward” barely begins to describe it. I’m they’re own brand of welcoming advice. Who fairly sure I, personally, would have bit someknew? body if they’d asked me to do the same at this Maybe I should be writing this as a Disney point in childbirth. movie script instead!

Have a Safe and Sane 4th of July

ROOF DAMAGE

PAGE 20 • July 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.

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We can put your roof on in days - not weeks or months.

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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