The Independent News October 2015

Volume 6 • Issue 10

OCTOBER 2015

www.theindnews.com

Star Merc’s Bill Kirtley Passes Away at 95, Leaves Lasting Legacy

By Philip A. Janquart Business owner, world traveler and war survivor, William Stanley Kirtley, Sr. passed away Aug. 22 at the age of 95.

Kirtley, known as “Bill” by family and friends, was born in Star, Idaho in 1920. He graduated from Star High School in 1938, eventually taking over the Star Mercantile for his father, William Taylor Kirtley, who opened the store in 1908.

Originally specializing in dry goods and produce, the “Star Merc” has become a local icon over its 107-year history, eventually expanding to offer a wide range of products from hardware and groceries to gas and lumber.

“My dad grew up in the business and helped take over for my grandfather when he passed away,” explained Jack Kirtley, who has run the Star Merc with brother Butch since the 1970’s. “There were three people involved in the store after that: my dad, his sister Virginia Lindsey and her husband Bill, my Uncle Bill. Bill passed away and my father bought my sister’s portion of the store.”

Bill didn’t initially take to the idea of working for the family, however, going to work for Boise-based Morrison Knudsen Corporation after high school, a job that took him to the island of Midway during World War II. He took refuge in a water-filled foxhole while the Japanese Navy shelled the island on Dec. 24, 1941.

His experience in the instead spoke with his south Pacific made the actions, according to son family business more Jack. appealing, according to “I found all kinds of an obituary published notes from farmers’ in the Aug. 30 edition charge accounts,” he of the Idaho Press Tribsaid. “A lot of people une. could never pay for Bill returned to Star anything until they had after his MK contract the hay and the eggs all expired. He went to done.” work for his father Some of Jack’s memountil taking over the ries about his father business in the 1960’s. include the golf cart he He married Elizabeth used to cruise around (Betty) Thornton in town during his later 1946. They had three years and his skill as a children together: pool player as a young Jennifer (Jill), William man.

(Butch) and John (Jack).

“The phone would The couple divorced, ring in the middle of the Bill marrying Edith night and we wouldn’t Mills Perry in 1971. see him for three days,” He loved her three Jack recalled, chuckling. children like his own, “He was considered one according to the family of the best pool players Bill Kirtley which says Bill and in the Valley and somePhoto courtesy of the Kirtley family Edith spent much of times somebody would their golden years traveling the world, includ- come in to town and they would end up in a ing to Europe, but especially to Mexico where tournament type thing. That was back when they eventually bought a second house. pool was considered more of a professional Who was Bill Kirtley? deal.”

Bill was a man of few words, who Bill had many “get-rich-quick” schemes.

By Philip A. Janquart Eagle Mayor Jim Reynolds says he is feeling “very positive” heading into Eagle’s Nov. 3 elections where he will face off against challenger and city councilman Stan Ridgeway in an effort to retain control of the city’s top position.

Reynolds was appointed interim mayor in the fall of 2010 after Phil Bandy resigned the previous March. He ran for election the following year, beating out then city councilman and Idaho Republican Party chair Norm Semanko for the job.

He has since weathered storms that included the hotly contested plan to build a roundabout at Eagle Road and State Street, and the controversy surrounding the dilapidated Chevron building on the southwest corner of the same intersection.

He says that through it all, he has put personal feelings and personalities aside to make the best choices he could for the city.

Reynolds typically found himself the tiebreaker in many council votes that ended in a predictable 2-2 deadlock, but was unable to unite people on opposing sides of issues on other occasions.

“I prayed about the old gas station, believe me, I prayed about that for a long time,” he told TIN. “It was a very difficult issue for everybody. I wasn’t able to bring everyone together on that issue, but I think I played the role of uniter on many other issues to get the business of the city done, which is the first job I have.”

Reynolds said he had a lot to learn as a first-time mayor, but that the experience has helped him prepare for a possible second full term.

“I know the players better,” he said. “We are going to get two more [new council members] and I’m really hopeful they are going to be two people who don’t have an agenda, that they want to do right by the city.”

Council members Mark Butler and Mary McFarland are not running for re-election.

Reynolds has been criticized for his lack of control of city council meetings, but says he is prepared to make some improvements along those lines while striking a balance with his personal style of conflict management.

“I’ve been told that I’m not strong enough with the council, that I don’t use the gavel

“He sat there in the house spinning a roulette wheel, lord knows how many days or weeks, to see if there was a system of a particular number that would keep coming up consistently. He had a slot machine and he’d keep doing that to see if something would come up,” according to Jack, who said his father was also a skilled poker player.

“He would go to a local golf club with my brother, Butch, and they would play poker up there in one of the back rooms,” he said.

“After a while they quit inviting him because he kept winning so much. And, he was meticulous with math. He could take a column of numbers and add them up in his head faster than someone doing it with a calculator.”

The prominent area businessman apparently had a fondness for animals, as well.

“He had Australian swans, black ones, and they were all screwed up, too, because they’d nest in the winter, because the seasons are backwards,” he said.

Bill also had a squirrel, two llamas, a donkey, a trout pond with “monstrous” trout, a turkey called “Throckmorton,” which “chased people around,” and other assorted pets and animals.

“I once got him a raccoon. It was an itsy bitty, tiny thing and it got bigger and bigger.

He called it ‘Rue’ because he said he rued the day I ever gave it to him,” Jack said, letting out a burst of laughter. “That raccoon, God!” Continued on page 17

Economic Development Remains High Priority in Reynolds’ Bid for Re-election

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

ECRWSS

POSTAL PATRON LOCAL

What's Your Hobby? pg. 3

enough,” he said. “I agree that I need to be firmer with that, and I will make an effort to do that, but there is a fine edge there, a real balancing act, in confronting strong personalities with deep beliefs on issues. In my past experience, I’ve tried arguing and fighting with people, but I’ve never found that to be very successful. Rather than taking them head-on, I find it is better to let people be heard and try to direct them to see other possibilities. I think that is part of my job, to be there to guide the whole process and let opposing voices be heard.”

Reynolds said that if re-elected he would continue to help bring people together, “respond to the desires of the people” and help massage economic development.

He has historically stressed the need to ramp up Eagle’s industrial presence en route to building a sustainable tax base going into the future.

“I think it’s important to meet with the people regularly, to get out and get to know them and support their efforts and their efforts to grow their businesses here, as much as I can,” he said. “It’s important for me to be an implement to go out and find, to

Local Author, Diana Robinson pg. 13

Incumbent Eagle Mayor Jim Reynolds

whatever degree I can, good, clean industry to bring to our area. We need to be up to 15 percent commercial and we are still around 6, which is why I really want to review our comprehensive plan. We committed ourselves a long time ago with all these houses and we’ve got to be able to support them.

Either that, or we raise taxes.”

Star Police Infrared Camera pg. 18

PAGE 2 • October 2015

City of Star Candidate Forum Thursday, October 22nd Star Elementary - 6 P.M.

Residents are encouraged to attend this forum to meet the candidates running for important city election

The Independent News will host a Star Candidate Forum for the upcoming City Council and Mayor elections that will be held Tuesday, November 3rd.

This is an important election year for the residents of Star; three City Council Seats and the Mayor are up for election.

The Council makes important land use decisions and the Mayor has the responsibility of running the business side of the City, from staff and daily operations to representing Star throughout the Valley.

The Mayor only votes when there is a tie vote by the City Council.

Parks and recreation, new home developments, traffic safety, budget and city improvements will be discussed.

As a citizen of Star, it is important to be informed about what the candidates’ opinions are about these important issues.

The forum will run from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Each candidate will be asked a series of prepared questions on many topics. Questions from the audience will also be invited.

This is your opportunity to ask questions, hear from the candidates, and make an informed decision for your vote on Election Day.

Plan to attend!

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Rise Above, Inc

By Tina Hawkins Mortars were exploding around Captain Jason Hawkins as he lie awake reading in his bunk in Afghanistan. He was reading a book about a fifteen year old boy who had been sentenced to life in prison. The tragedy was that this boy never considered the potential consequences of helping his buddy carry out a plan to rob a bank. In this moment Jason compared his circumstances to that of a prisoner. He had little personal freedom… he couldn’t eat when he wanted or hold his children, and his sleeping quarters were a small room partitioned by dusty wool blankets suspended from the ceiling.

Jason had experience mentoring troubled youth and knew he could help young people avoid making poor choices that lead to catastrophic consequences. He decided his talents would be better used by serving his country in this capacity even though this meant abandoning a successful, well-paying career with the promise of retirement.

He was driven by his ability to relate to disengaged youth for, as a teenager, Jason was a bit of a trouble-maker and was even expelled from school. He was intelligent and came from a good home; the problem was he HATED school and put forth minimal effort, receiving mediocre grades in return. His wellintended parents and teachers told him that to be successful in life he needed to achieve academically, but academics didn’t interest him so he felt he was doomed to a life of failure and disappointment. He graduated in the bottom three percent of his class. At that point, college did not seem like an option for him so he found himself working dead-end jobs and, a year later, decided to enlist in the Air Force. Fortunately, he later had an epiphany that inspired him to set goals, driving him to achieve a commission as an officer, earn his commercial pilot license and a master’s degree with honors along with becoming an FAA certificated flight instructor.

After nearly 13 years of service in the air force, Jason and his family moved to Idaho to found Rise Above, Inc., a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower at-risk youth and inspire them to make productive

Hawkins after completing his FAA checkride to become a Certificated Flight Instructor. Bedford, MA

choices by teaching them how to assemble and fly (real) kit airplanes. Rise Above is a unique after-school program that goes beyond providing a safe hang out to keep kids out of trouble. It teaches them to set and achieve goals while being mentored by accomplished, caring adults. The building and flying is a metaphorical approach to life where they learn to work hard and make sacrifices and then enjoy the fruits of the accomplishment by flying the airplane. They will leave the program with a newfound confidence and feeling of importance knowing that they have accomplished something great by flying an airplane that they built (after an FAA inspection), something few teenagers have the opportunity to do. This confidence will help them in all aspects of their lives, empowering them to “rise above” their circumstances and live a fulfilling, productive life.

Please visit our website at riseaboveamerica.org.

A kit airplane generously donated to Rise Above. Nampa, ID Photos by the Hawkins Family

Jason Hawkins speaking to youth at a Drug Free Idaho Rally in Boise, ID

? y ’s t b a b h o W H R Y OU

If you have an interesting hobby we would love to read about it.

Send your story to theindnews.story@gmail.com

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

What’s Your Hobby?

COMMUNIT Y

Postcards. Most of us think they are a thing chatting with Bonnie who mentioned postcrossing.com. of the past. With all the new technology, few "I went right home and looked at the webpeople even send letters any more. But in 2005, a man named Paulo Magalhães in Portu- site, and signed up on the spot. I have had so much fun picking out cards for people, writing gal designed a website for the world to send postcards to random people and receive some something fun, taking them to the Post Office and waiting for cards to show up in my mailback in return. This website, www.postcrossbox. In just over two months, I have sent 32 ing.com, now has over 570,000 participating cards and received 23 back. I love to travel and members across 215 countries. In ten years, I feel receiving postcards from all over the over 31 million postcards have been sent world allows me to travel around the world. The Postin a different way. I have crossing connection has also already met 6 new people started a nice friendship in my community beamong two women in Star. cause of Postcrossing. I Bonnie Arriola and Cathy think Postcrossing.com Cudney are both enthusiastic has allowed me to 'make about Postcrossing.com. local connections and Bonnie first came across travel the world.' " Postcrossing one evening The Postcrossing after she moved to Idaho five website is exceptional. years ago.

It is easy to use and navi"I have always enjoyed gate around. The website postcards and letter writing keeps track of everything and had sent my friends varfor you. Some examples ious missives without much are who you have sent reply. I hadn't made any cards to, how many days friends yet, and wanted to the cards have traveled, find a way to find some pen and how many miles. On pals. Somehow, I stumbled the first day of every upon a website that would month, you receive an connect you to postcard colemail with your stats for lectors, and better yet, postthe past month. card senders! I was hooked!

Bonnie and Cathy I began right away to send plan to have a Meet-Up off some of the great cards Bonnie Arriola & Cathy Cudney group start in October.

I'd found on our journey to stand in front of the Star Post If you are interested, Idaho. It wasn't long before I Office, holding a handful of please email Cathy at started to get some love in postcards received through Autumngoldengirl@ my mailbox. With each card postcrossing.com. yahoo.com. Put "meetup" I was able to learn a little in the subject line. something about someone who lived in other Humans want to feel a connection to othstates and other countries. 300+ cards later ers and Postcrossing.com certainly helps conI've heard from folks of all ages and from all nect people. It does not matter who you are or walks of life. My favorite cards are funny or where you live, you have an opportunity to have the Eiffel Tower on them. " meet people from around the world.

Cathy was in the Star Library one day

October 2015 • PAGE 3

PAGE 4 • October 2015

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

10 Open Enrollment Mistakes to Avoid

Nature scavenger hunt for the whole family at Merrill Park

Mark October 3rd on your family’s calendar for a nature scavenger hunt at Merrill Park. It starts at 10 a.m. and it’s free.

Designed for families with kids ages 2 to 12, this scavenger hunt is an opportunity to bring the whole family outside to enjoy the autumn air and discover the wonders of nature.

Participants will be given a scavenger list of items found in nature.

Your family can have fun searching throughout the park or along the greenbelt. There will be a small prize for children finishing the scavenger hunt.

Families can check in anytime between 10:0010:30 a.m. to pick up their scavenger hunt list and search at their own pace. Completed lists must be submitted by noon to receive a prize. Pre-registration is required at www.ActiveZoneKids.com This event is co-hosted by Active Zone Kids Preschool and the Idaho Hiking Club. Active Zone Kids Preschool is located in Eagle. The Idaho Hiking Club has over 3,300 members and hosts free hikes throughout Idaho and beyond.

For more information about the hosts, contact Lisa Wiseman at 208-968-2800.

By Nathaniel Sillin How much time do you spend reviewing your benefits before open enrollment each year?

If your answer is "not much," you're not alone. A recent survey by insurer Aflac (http://workforces.aflac.com/about-thestudy.php) says that 90 percent of Americans choose the same benefits year after year and that 42 percent forego up to $750 annually by making poor choices.

Rushing through annual benefits updates or making such uninformed decisions in insurance, retirement or other workplace-based benefits are actually part of a bigger story.

Open enrollment is just one part of an overall financial plan: Unfortunately, too many employees see it as the only financial planning they have to do all year.

In reality, a safe financial future depends mostly on the savings, investing and spending decisions you make outside the workplace. As many employers are looking to shrink or discontinue the retirement and health benefits they offer, it's time to take a fresh look at open enrollment.

Here are 10 benefits mistakes you might want to avoid.

1. Not having an overall financial plan.

Your company may offer excellent benefits now. However, the Labor Department reports that average worker tenure at U.S. companies is only 4.6 years, so the biggest open enrollment mistake might be assuming your current benefits assure your financial future. It's important to work alone or with qualified advisors to determine the right work-based benefits as part of overall spending, savings and investment activities throughout your lifetime.

2. Making choices at the last minute.

Your benefits are important and deserve time for consideration. Put your open enrollment dates on your personal calendar with a reminder a few weeks ahead of time to coordinate with qualified advisors if you have them.

3. Forgetting to coordinate with your spouse or partner.

Many employers are planning big changes to spouse/partner benefits. While the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) lets parents keep children on their health plans until age 26, more employers are instituting "spousal surcharges" or excluding spousal coverage altogether if they already have access to employer health insurance.

4. Ignoring your state's Health Insurance Marketplace. Even if you have employer health insurance, things change. If you lose a job or cannot stay on your spouse or partner's health plan, it might be worthwhile

to familiarize yourself with your state's ACAmandated health insurance marketplace ahead of time.

5. Underestimating how big life events might affect your benefits.

Salary changes, marriage, divorce, serious illness or starting a family are big signals to check your benefits, preferably well in advance of open enrollment. Think through every potential situation you might face and ask questions about how those changes might affect your benefit selections.

6. Passing on flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs).

FSAs are workplace-based accounts that allow you to set aside money on a pre-tax basis to help you pay for healthcare and dependent care expenses during the calendar year. HSAs, if you qualify, also allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars in a qualified investment or savings account for long-and-short term medical expenses not covered by insurance. They don't require you to spend out those funds every year. Your workplace benefits counselor, qualified financial advisor and Internal Revenue Service Publication 969 can assist with eligibility, types of accounts, contribution limits and tax issues associated with these choices.

7. Leaving retirement selections unchanged.

As the Aflac data indicates, many individuals don't change their investment focus in self-directed retirement plans for years.

That's why reviewing options in advance is essential.

8. Overlooking wellness options.

Many employers pay for exercise, cholesterol screenings, weight loss, smoking cessation, immunizations or related benefits that can make you healthier, save money and possibly lower health premiums.

9. Bypassing transportation breaks.

If you drive or take public or companysponsored transportation to and from work, you may qualify for specific discounts or tax deductions. IRS Publication 15-B covers these programs and how to use them most effectively.

10. Forgetting education benefits.

If an employer is willing to train you to advance in your career, don't pass it up.

However, get advice on the possibility of tax liability for these benefits. Separately, check out employer-sponsored education grant or scholarship awards for you or your kids – that can be free money.

Bottom line: Open enrollment is just one piece of a well-organized financial puzzle.

Make sure your employer provided benefits choices compliment savings, investing and spending decisions you're making on your own.

Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa's financial education programs. To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PracticalMoney.

Editor’s Note: Open enrollment for 2016 coverage is from November 1, 2015 - January 31, 2016. Source: www.healthcare.gov.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Joe’s View

Hopefully you have a relationship with someone you know and trust to handle your repair and remodeling needs.

I received a call from a person and the language she used was just plain wrong.

I took her to school on the call and at the end she was thankful for the explanation and could move forward.

She said “We are thinking about updating our kitchen and we want some help. We want a Contractor to come out and give us some ideas so we can think about them and decide.”

So I ask you, do you hear anything wrong with this? Here is what a contractor hears in those words: “We are thinking…” means that you are not sure about this. This project just flashed into your head and you grabbed the phone. You have no idea of costs, what you want, or how this all happens. “… updating our kitchen…” means you have seen something shiny on TV or in a magazine that interests you, but you do not know how to get there. You are hoping it is not expensive. “Updating” seems cheaper than “remodeling.” “…we want some help”. You want someone to explain all the details that the TV shows, magazines and such leave out. You want the options, and you want them in that first meeting along with costs. “…we want a Contractor to come out…”

And a designer, because we want a professional that has done all of this before. We don’t want to figure it out ourselves, although we might do some of this ourselves. Come to us because we have to work during the day and evenings or weekends are nice to talk.

“…give us some ideas…” We don’t plan on paying for any of this expert advice. We just want you to spend hours of your life helping us and maybe we will hire you. That’s how it works right? “…so we can think about them and decide…” You have no money planned for this do you? This is really a project for maybe a couple years from now? You are not ready for this yet. Especially if you decide to do it yourself or take these ideas to someone who works cheaper because they do not have to design the project.

I know this is all absurd and extreme. But this happens all the time. Questions asked in the way this person did are why that same person has difficulty with people showing up for appointments, if at all. Or phone calls not getting returned. Or the information not being accurate. She raised almost every red flag a Contractor can look for.

Here is how to ask for help. “We want to start the process of updating or remodeling our kitchen. We would like to find out if you can help us design and cost out this project based on what we have set aside in our budget. Could we have a preliminary discussion to find out how all this works, the way you go about this, the costs involved, and if there is anything that we could help with to save a little? Should we come see you, or should you come to our home first?”

If you try this approach, you will be treated totally different. There is mutual respect here as well as the willingness to be up front and truthful and to invest in the process.

You will find out from what is said next by the Contractor if they are a person you want to do business with. Perhaps in another column I should dissect what is heard by a customer when a Contractor speaks.

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.

October 2015 • PAGE 5

PAGE 6 • October 2015

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

PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS

TWIRLING TOTS • 2-5 yrs Does your little one love to groove? Children will play games, explore body movement, and boogie to dance hits of yesterday and today. Boys and girls are sure to leave class with enhanced body awareness and smiles. Child must be potty trained or parent must attend program.

Eagle Performing Arts Center, 1125 E. State St. 4 weeks | $36 101-5 10/6-10/27 Tu 10:30-11:15 am

YOUTH PROGRAMS

OCTOBER PROGRAMS

MARTIAL ARTS/KARATE KICKSTART LEVEL I SHODAN • 6-12 yrs Learn the principles and techniques of Washin Ryu Karate, traditional Japanese Karate similar to Shotokan. Classes focus on the development of selfdefense, self-discipline, and physical fitness. Open to beginning level students. Sessions are offered on an ongoing basis throughout the year. Earn your first stripe upon completion. Includes t-shirt and belt.

Idaho Martial Arts 4 weeks | $70 10/6-10/29 Tu/Th 4:30-5:15 pm Ages 6-8 10/6-10/29 Tu/Th 5:15-6 pm Ages 9-12 MARTIAL ARTS/KARATE KICKSTART LEVEL II NIDAN • 6-12 yrs Learn the principles and techniques of Washin Ryu Karate, traditional Japanese Karate similar to Shotokan. Completion of Level I Shodan required. Classes focus on the development of self-defense, self-discipline, and physical fitness.

Sessions are offered on an ongoing basis throughout the year. Earn your second stripe upon completion. Includes Karate Uniform.

Idaho Martial Arts, 1580 E. State Street 4 weeks | $70 201-7 10/6-10/29 Tu/Th 4:30-5:15 pm Ages 6-8 201-8 10/6-10/29 Tu/Th 5:15-6 pm Ages 9-12

LACROSSE • 4-8 yrs This is the perfect non-competitive environment to teach your child the fundamentals of lacrosse.

The class curriculum is designed to educate your child through a variety of fun and unique activities that help them to develop lacrosse skills. Each class will focus on a new skill of the week while also reviewing previously learned skills and techniques.

This program is not recommended for young athletes who are searching to play in a competitive league environment.

Merrill Park 4 weeks | $40 10/6-10/27 Tu 4:15-5 pm Age 4 10/6-10/27 Tu 5:05-5:50 pm Ages 5-6 10/6-10/27 Tu 6-7 pm Ages 7-8 BASKETBALL • 5-10 yrs ADULT PROGRAMS Using a progressive curriculum and focusing on the whole player, we teach your child the skills they AIKIDO • Ages 14+ need both on and off the court to be a better athAikido is a defensive Japanese martial art that folete. Our basketball specific coaches will focus on cuses on blending with and redirecting an opporespect, teamwork, and responsibility as they teach nent’s energy/attack rather than relying on strength a “skill of the day” and progress into drills and or direct aggression. Because of the emphasis on games. Athletes will learn how to pass, shoot, drib- circular movement and leverage, this makes Aikido ble, and rebound. This is an unforgettable experia great option for adults, teens, kids, men, women. ence for young athletes! All participants receive a Idaho Martial Arts 4 weeks | $40 basketball to take home.

10/7-10/28 W 7-8:15 pm Eagle Elementary of the Arts 4 weeks | $40 FIT & SAFE CIRCUIT TRAINING • Ages 18+ 10/7-10/28 W 5-5:45 pm Ages 5-6 IMA Self Defense Circuit Training takes the 10/7-10/28 W 6-6:45 pm Ages 7-8 interval/station fitness concept to the next level.

10/7-10/28 W 7-8 pm Ages 9-10 Influenced by the functional fitness and HIIT (high SOCCER • 2-8 yrs intensity interval training) approach, IMA Self This program will teach your child the Defense Circuit Training focuses on basic human fundamentals of soccer. Using a progressive movements for self-defense (push, pull, jump, run, curriculum, campers will gain the technical skills kick, block, punch etc.) by employing a combination and sports knowledge required for that next step of traditional weightlifting/calisthenic drills. Be into soccer. Curriculum is taught using games, prepared for a high intensity interval workout with skill-based drills and fun! All participants receive self-defense moves that keep you safe. a soccer ball to take home.

Idaho Martial Arts 4 weeks | $40 Merrill Park 4 weeks | $40 10/10-10/31 Sa 8-9 am 10/8-10/29 Th 4-4:45 pm Ages 2-3 COUNTRY WESTERN DANCING 10/8-10/29 Th 5-5:45 pm Ages 3-5 Grab your partner and join us for a month of country 10/8-10/29 Th 6-7 pm Ages 5-8 western dance lessons! You will learn partner MULTISPORT • 4-6 yrs dances, the country two-step, and fun moves Skyhawks multisport program is designed to introincluding spins and patterns. Partners are not duce athletes to a variety of different sports in one provided so please bring your own! setting. For this program, we combine basketball, Eagle Elementary of the Arts Cafeteria soccer, and lacrosse. Athletes will learn the rules 475 N. Eagle Road 5 weeks | $50 per couple and essential skills of each sport, along with vital 403-7 10/7-11/4 W 7-8:30 pm life lessons such as respect and teamwork.

BEGINNING WATERCOLOR • Ages 18+ Merrill Park 4 weeks | $40 Join us for a fun and informative workshop to learn 10/9-10/30 F 4:30-5:15 pm Ages 4-5 techniques for painting with watercolors.

10/9-10/30 F 5:30-6:15 pm Ages 5-6 You’ll enjoy an evening learning the secrets for planENCORE THEATER CLASS • 6-10 yrs ning a strong composition and mixing and applying Does your child love the limelight? Or are they color. Bring your own reference photo. Price nervous about class presentations and public includes lesson and materials. Only 6 spots speaking? From the shy to the boisterous, are available so reserve your spot soon! this theater class is for everyone! Kids will play Finer Frames 164 E. State Street $35 games and do activities to help them find their 401-10 10/20 Tu 6-8:30 pm voice and speak out. They will explore and FAMILY PROGRAMS develop theater skills and share ideas, HARVEST FEST express their creativity, and work collaboratively.

Join us on Old State Street to celebrate fall The final day of class will feature a performance! at the Harvest Festival! There will be pumpkin Eagle Elementary of the Arts Cafeteria 6 weeks| $60 decorating, face painting, cookie decorating, 9/21-10/26 M 6:30-7:30 pm kids games, and more.

SCHOOL BREAK MINI CAMPS • Grades K-5 Heritage Park & Eagle Museum, State St. Free Looking for something for your children to do durSaturday, 10/10 10 am-2 pm ing school breaks? Send them to mini-camp!

HALLOWEEN TRICK-OR-TREATING Children in grades K-5 will enjoy a fun-filled day Bring your spooky trick-or-treaters to Spring Creek with crafts, games, field trips, and other activities.

Edgewood Senior Living Center for an hour of trick or Eagle Elementary of the Arts Cafeteria treat fun! Kids will visit with the residents and get 475 N. Eagle Road $32/day some treats to kick-off the Halloween Weekend.

203-8 10/1-10/2 Th, F 9 am- 4 pm Spring Creek Edgewood Senior Living Center 653 N. Eagle Road Free Friday, 10/30 6-7 pm

Q: What does a witch use to keep her hair up?

A: Scarespray!

Q: What did the ghost say to the other ghost?

A: Do you believe in humans?

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

~ Guest Opinion ~ Another Side of Roundabouts

While roundabouts are excellent alternatives for some traffic situations, there are others where they are not appropriate. In a 2010 study done by the University of California Berkley’s Transportation Research Center for the California Department of Transportation, it was strongly recommended against putting multi-lane roundabouts in areas within walking distance of elementary schools or senior facilities. In it, they documented that young children’s field of vision is much narrower than adults, making it extremely difficult for them to negotiate crossing a roundabout. This is precisely why the residents of Eagle did not want a roundabout in the center of our town, and filled a Town Hall Meeting to capacity.

Half a mile from the proposed roundabout at the intersection of Eagle and State St., is Eagle Elementary School. Additionally, six Senior living facilities as well as the Eagle Senior Center are within a mile radius of the intersection.

Roundabouts are also dangerous for other at risk groups, such as handicapped and blind individuals. A study by the National Cooperative Highway Research Program in 2005 found that alarmingly only 29% of drivers would yield for blind individuals with either a guide dog, or a white cane. If the majority of drivers won’t yield to blind pedestrians, what about children, other pedestrians and cyclists?

The goal for Downtown Eagle has historically been to be pedestrian and bicycle friendly, as stated in Eagle’s Comprehensive Plan. This is in direct conflict with the goal of a roundabout, which is to provide a constant flow of traffic through an intersection. With the high volume of traffic in downtown Eagle, particularly at peak times, a roundabout would make it extremely difficult for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross the intersection.

Close to twenty years ago, traffic in Downtown Eagle on State Street rose to a dangerous level, being the only route to Boise, and the “Alternate Route”, Highway 44 was proposed and implemented in order to keep Downtown Eagle safe for pedestrians.

“Our 3rd generation family farm was sacrificed for the creation of the Eagle alternate route (Highway 44), the purpose of which was to keep Downtown Eagle safe. Eagle’s Comprehensive Plans all the way back to the 1970’s wanted the town to be pedestrian friendly,” says former Eagle Councilwoman, Lynn Sedlacek. “It would be a shame to see Downtown Eagle’s priorities change from pedestrian safety to promoting the constant flow of traffic, as would happen with a multi-lane roundabout.”

“Our family bikes to Downtown Eagle all the time; for coffee, dinner, the Saturday Market and other activities. I would be very concerned for my children’s safety crossing a roundabout where traffic never stops. I definitely wouldn’t let my ten year old ride his bike Downtown to the park,” says Eagle resident Kris Neumann.

The size of a multi-lane roundabout in Downtown Eagle would require taking property and on-street parking from established small businesses, and destroy its small town charm.

Let’s work on finding a less destructive, lower cost alternative for Downtown Eagle, such as the one-way quadrant system currently under evaluation in the intersection study. A solution can and should be found that does not destroy neighborhoods and businesses, nor risk pedestrian, cyclists’, and handicapped persons’ safety.

Naomi Preston

Pub House Press, Inc. dba The Independent News © 2015

PO Box 166, Star, ID 83669 • (208) 550-3111 • theindnews.story@gmail.com Publisher/Editor Melissa Upton, (208) 550-3111, theindnews.story@gmail.com Advertising Randy Miskimon, (208) 794-6858, randym.theindnews@gmail.com Graphic Designer Mary Shaw Reporters Phil Janquart, Mickie Park Printer Owyhee Publishing

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October 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.

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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 550-3111or 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.

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 • 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

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

October 2015 • PAGE 7

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: ON THE FARM

ACROSS 1. Staples Center, e.g.

6. *Some tractors have an enclosed one 9. French cabaret legend Edith 13. Hogwarts professor and part werewolf 14. Female gametes 15. "A ____ ate my baby" 16. Through this and thin 17. Aquatic shocker 18. Happen 19. *Fruit trees 21. *Traditional "mower" 23. E in BCE 24. 1950s pin-up 25. Accounting degree 28. Month of Purim 30. Stream of revenue 35. *Barbecued pig or cow anatomy 37. Away from wind 39. Swamp plant 40. Elliptical 41. *Livestock farm 43. Pineapple producer 44. Some are cuckoo for these puffs 46. "Why not?"

47. Rushed 48. *Animal house 50. Juicing byproduct 52. They often pop up 53. Beer spouts 55. Lake in France 57. *Used on sheep 60. *Pullets and drakes, e.g.

64. To bake an egg in its shell 65. It's sometimes high or low 67. Sound of pinched nose 68. One who ____ around 69. Hammurabi's code, e.g.

70. "It's the latest ____" 71. Edible root of taro plant 72. Wife's title 73. Wives of one man DOWN 1. Choir member 2. German industrial valley 3. Larger-than-life 4. A position well suited to person occupying it 5. Turkish capital 6. For boys and girls 7. As opposed to St. or Blvd.

8. Crafter's wood 9. Ancient Briton 10. Give some this and they take a mile 11. Malaria symptom 12. Hemingway's "___ Whom the Bell Tolls" 15. A man who is senior member of group, pl.

20. Kind of police gun 22. Computer-generated imagery, acr.

24. Engaged couple's contracts 25. The Nile is famous for these 26. Turning point 27. Manila hemp 29. "Oh, my!"

31. U.S. law-enforcement agents 32. Used to treat Parkinson's disease 33. Amorously checked out 34. *Pesky farm intruders 36. Like Oscar in "The Odd Couple" 38. Very light brown 42. Conversation starter

45. Communion tables 49. *Corn piece 51. Protruding belly 54. Sacred song 56. "The Nutcracker" protagonist 57. Food fish 58. *A quadruped's ____quarters 59. Consequently 60. Seats for a flock 61. One of the Romanovs 62. Level to the ground 63. Original matter 64. Female 66. Hot Wheel

PAGE 8 • October 2015

EAGLE NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

EAGLE CANDIDATE FORUM to be held at Camille Beckman Monday, October 19

The Eagle Community Candidate Forum will be held Monday, Oct. 19 at the new Chateau des Fleurs event venue located on the Camille Beckman campus at 176 S. Rosebud Lane., off State Street (Highway 44), in Eagle.

Doors open at 6 p.m. The forum begins at 6:30 p.m.

...

City Councilman Stan Ridgeway is challenging Mayor Jim Reynolds in the Nov. 3, 2015 elections.

Running for two open city council seats are: Stan Bastian, Shane Curry, Kevin Keep, Jeff Laughlin, Rick Murphree, Mike Olsen, Naomi Preston and Craig Soelberg.

To our valued Members and the Eagle Community,

It is with trepidation that we announce the resignation of Gretchen Gilbert as Executive Director of the Eagle Chamber Of Commerce.

Gretchen has made the difficult decision to leave our organization for personal reasons.

While we accept her resignation, we are sad to see her go, but wish her the greatest of success in her future endeavors.

Gretchen has been the face of the Eagle Chamber of Commerce for several years. Gretchen has performed at the highest level and has dedicated herself to the betterment of not only the Chamber, but the City of Eagle as well. The list of accomplishments and achievements that distinguish her career with the Chamber are exhaustive. Some highlights include Eagle Fun Days, Monthly Luncheons, Country Christmas, Groundbreakings, Ribbon Cuttings, and Grand Openings. Gretchen has directed the Chamber with operational excellence, from member communications to financial responsibility, volunteer coordination to interaction with departments and persons from the City of Eagle.

The Board of Directors are planning and working diligently to recruit a replacement.

During this transition period, Gretchen will continue to function as the Eagle Chamber of Commerce Executive Director and will be integral in moving forward. Gretchen, we thank you for your commitment, your time, your successes, your loyalty, and your friendship.

Sincerely, Eagle Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

City of Eagle Planning and Zoning Commission Opening

The City of Eagle is seeking one (1) individual to fill an opening on the Planning and Zoning Commission. Applicants must currently reside within Eagle City limits and have been a resident of Ada County for at least two years. This is a volunteer position that is filled via the recommendation of the Mayor and subsequent confirmation of the City Council.

Individuals will serve a three (3) year term on the Commission. The Commission regularly meets on the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 6:00 p.m.

Those who wish to serve on the Planning and Zoning Commission are required to submit a Request for Appointment form, with a letter of interest and a list of qualifications/resume to City Hall at 660 E Civic Ln. The Request for Appointment form can be found on the City’s webpage atwww.cityofeagle.org. Contact Information: Planning and Zoning Department (208) 939-0227. The deadline for submittal is no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2015.

...

Look for a full rundown of both the Eagle and Star candidates in the Nov. 1 issue of TIN - The Independent News.

Eagle Food and Wine Festival Oct. 3

The 9th annual Eagle Food and Wine Festival is scheduled for Oct. 3 at Banbury Golf Course from 6 - 9 p.m.

Funds from this year’s event will be donated to the Special Olympics of Idaho and the Eagle Community Food Bank.

“The Festival celebrates the culinary and viticultural delights of our community by highlighting select Idaho wineries and pairing them with premier local chefs,” said coordinator Mary May. “This unique experience allows the public the opportunity to taste the best that the region has to offer in both food and wine, while also encouraging the growth of Idaho's distinct culinary identity. Live music enhances the evening.”

Past beneficiaries include the International Winter Special Olympics, Meals on Wheels, The Landing Community Center, the Pet Food Pantry, the Eagle Food Bank, the Idaho Domestic Bird Rescue & Sanctuary, the Wyakin Warrior Foundation, and IICACC (Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children

Coalition, Child Victim Fund).

Last year the event raised over $13,000 for local charities.

Restaurants participating in this year’s event include 10 Barrel Brewing, BanBury Golf Course, Bardenay, Bella Aquila, Café Crane, Jakers Bar and Grill, Le Coq D’Or, Olive and Vine, Kanak Attack Katering, Chef Dean Fuller of the Boise Hotel & Conference Center/Castle Ranch, Rice, The Porterhouse, Wild West Eatery & Cantina and Winding Creek Grill.

Wineries include 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards, Cellar 616, Cold Springs Winery, Crossing Winery, Frenchman’s Gulch Winery, HAT Ranch Winery, Hells Canyon Winery, Indian Creek Winery, Périple, Potter Wines, Roghani Vineyards, Sawtooth Winery, Wine Cellars of the Northwest and Zhoo Zhoo.

Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online at www.EagleFoodAndWineFestival.com or at The Porterhouse or Banbury Golf Course.

EAGLE SENIOR CENTER

312 E. State St, 939-0475 –Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs - 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Regular Weekly Activities Pool before Lunch Monday, Tuesday and Thursday Bingo before Lunch Thursday 11:30 a.m.

Bingo and Pinochle after Lunch each Tuesday and Thursday Pinochle 1:00 p.m. every Saturday Bridge every Wednesday 10:00 a.m.

Fit and Fall Exercise-9:00 a.m. Monday, Wednesday & Friday - $1 Donation Square Dancing every Tuesday-7:00 p.m. Contact Roy at 376-9378 “Love Me Two Times” Boutique open Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Transportation to Lunch available on a donation basis. Contact Micky at 440-0266 Transportation to Pinochle at Star Senior Center-Fridays at 6:00 p.m. Contact Debby at 577-8002

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.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

CIT Y OF EAGLE

EAGLE LIBRARY October Events The Library will be closed Monday, October 12 for Columbus Day.

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

Wednesday, October 7, 14, 21, 28 Monday, October 5, 19, 26 Teen Advisory Board (TAB), 4:15 p.m.

Baby Readers, 10:30 a.m. (birth - 18 months) (teens 14+) Stories, songs, and fingerplays for babies Earn volunteer hours, hang out with your friends, and their caregivers. and help your Library!

Monday, October 5, 19, 26 Thursday, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Knee Deep in LEGOS™, 4:00 p.m. (ages 6+) Preschool Story Time, 10:30 a.m.

Weekly program for children ages 6 – 12 to use (3 - 5 years) their creativity in building/designing with LEGOS. Stories, songs, and crafts with an emphasis on Tuesday, October 6, 13, 20, 27 school-readiness skills.

Toddler Time, 10:30 a.m. (18 months - 3 years) Friday, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Stories, songs, and crafts for toddlers Ready, Set, School!, 10:30 a.m. (3 - 5 years) and their caregivers.

Stories, songs, and crafts, with an emphasis Tuesday, October 13, 27 on school-readiness skills.

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 2:00 p.m. (adults) Friday, October 9, 23 Co-sponsored with Alzheimer’s Association Nutty Knitters of Eagle Public Library, Greater Idaho Chapter, the Eagle Public Library of10:00 a.m. (adults) fers support for individuals and families whose Local knitters and crocheters provide infant, lives are touched by Alzheimer’s. youth, and adult knit products for those in need.

Wednesday, October 7, 14, 21, 28 Music & Movement, 10:30 a.m. (birth - 5 years) Join them to knit for charity, or to make friends with people with common interests. Or, if you Early literacy skills are built through rhythm want to learn to knit, stop by; you’ll receive a lot and motion in this interactive program for of free advice. If you don’t want to knit but young children and their caregivers. would like to help, the Nutty Knitters will gladly Wednesday, October 7, 14, 21, 28 accept donations of yarn, which may be left at Tales to Tails, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (ages 5+) the Library’s front desk. For more info visit the Increase your reading ability and confidence by knitter’s website: nuttyknitters.weebly.com. reading to man’s best friend from Helping Idaho Dogs. Registration is required; contact the Youth Services staff at 939-6814, ext. 113.

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

October’s Artists of the Month Julie Pegan, Illustrations.

Julie creates work with the full intention of cracking herself up. With a sense of humor born from being shy and introspective for most of her life, she began to merge her art and humor while studying art in college.

Idaho Gourd Society.

Amazing works of art created from gourds.

Thursday, October 1 Eat, Play, Grow: I Love Veggies, 10:30 a.m. (3 - 5 years) A series of healthy lifestyle lessons presented in a fun interactive format for preschoolers.

Friday, October 2 Movie: Strange Magic, 4:15 p.m. (all ages) Saturday, October 3 Basic Computer Questions: Open Lab, 2:00 p.m.

(Conference Room) Get answers to your questions about computers, e-mail, the internet, and more.

Tuesday, October 6 After School Fun, 4:15 p.m. (6 - 12 years) Grossology - Do science experiments that explain bacteria, mold and other gross things.

Popcorn and a Movie, 5:30 p.m. (middle/high school) Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone along with popcorn – and it’s on the big screen!

Thursday, October 8 Eat, Play, Grow: Smart Sleep, 10:30 a.m.

(3 - 5 years) A series of healthy lifestyle lessons presented in a fun interactive format for preschoolers.

Your 24/7 Library: E-magazines and Zinio, 2:00 p.m. (Conference Room) Learn how to access your library’s digital collections anytime and anywhere.

Second Thursday Book Club, 6:30 p.m.

October’s selection is Woman in White

by Wilke Collins Friday, October 9 Movie: Back to Jurassic, 4:15 p.m. (all ages) Saturday, October 10 Preschool S.T.E.M. Program, 10:00 a.m. – Noon (3 - 6 years) In this totally interactive program, parents and their preschool children will have numerous opportunities to explore entertaining and educational hands-on math and science activities.

Tuesday, October 13 After School Fun, 4:15 p.m. (6 - 12 years) Create a luminous leaf lantern with colorful fall leaves.

Minute to Win It, 6:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Take a minute and prove to your friends that a minute is all you need to win.

Thursday, October 15 Eat, Play, Grow: Family Meal, 10:30 a.m. (3 - 5 years) A series of healthy lifestyle lessons presented in a fun interactive format for preschoolers.

Homeschool at the Library, 2:00 p.m.

All Things Harvest: Apples, Pumpkins & More Friday, October 16 Family Game Night, 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Bring your family and friends for an evening of gaming at the Library. Games from the Library’s collection will be available for play.

Saturday, October 17 Saturday Creations: Trick or Treat Candy Corn, 2:00 p.m. (Adult) Decorate your house for the season by making your own set of wooden candy corn.

Tuesday, October 20 After School Fun, 4:15 p.m. (6 - 12 years) Decorate a pumpkin any way you like.

Your 24/7 Library Help: Open Lab, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. (Conference Room) Get answers to your questions about downloading e-books, e-magazines, and music from your library.

Robot Creation, 6:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Make your own robot – it’s part of Teen Read Week.

Healthy Habits for a Healthier You, 6:00 p.m. (adults) Learn about lifestyle changes that will aid in cognitive wellness. Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association.

Small Business Workshop, Noon - 1:00 p.m. (adults) Presented by the Small Business Administration Business Taxes: Preparation Tips from the Experts Friday, October 23 Movie: Three Investigators and the Secret of Skeleton Island, 4:15 p.m. (all ages) Friday, October 23 Teens After-Hours: Get Away to Hogwarts, 6:30 p.m. (middle/high school) Join the Library to celebrate Teen Read Week’s “Get Away @ Your Library” by traveling to Hogwarts. There will be games, treats, and lots of activities.

Tuesday, October 27 After School Fun, 4:15 p.m. (6 - 12 years) Learn to make spooky Halloween treats, including Halloween candy bark and witching hour chips.

Murder High-Murder Mystery, 6:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Who killed your classmate at the Murder High class of ’83 reunion? Get your totally tubular legwarmers on and come solve the mystery.

Wednesday, October 28 Chat with the Director, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Do you have ideas to improve library services or do you have questions about the library. Stop by the Library’s Conference Room and chat with the Library Director.

Saturday, October, 17 - Saturday, October 24 Pumpkin Contest (all ages) Will your pumpkin win this year’s annual Biggest Pumpkin Contest? Last year’s winner was a 150 pound plus Atlantic Giant! Bring your pumpkin to the Library anytime between 9:00 a.m. Saturday, October 17, through 4:30 p.m., Saturday, October 24, when they’ll be weighed and this year’s King o’ the Pumpkins will be crowned.

Thursday, October 29 Getting Started with Twitter, 2:00 p.m.

(Conference Room) Get started and learn how to use Twitter to stay informed and in touch.

Friday, October 30 Halloween Party, 4:00 p.m. (all ages) It’s monster time at the Library. Apple bobbing, pumpkin decorating, monster games, Halloween crafts and more will make this an afternoon you won’t soon forget!

If you want, come in costume!

www.eaglepubliclibrary.org

October 2015 • PAGE 9

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

It’s gone. Yes, it is really gone. I refer, of course, to the “old gas station” as it has been known. The amount of misinformation regarding this property and Mrs. Smith’s negotiations with the Eagle URA is truly staggering. In an interview with KBOI-TV early in the saga, the interviewer made 10 statements about the situation which were absolutely untrue. Including that it was the City, not the URA, that sought to remove the blight and that the URA had a planned investor ready to go for a big development.

Totally false.

For some 17 years, most of those in a rundown condition, the property stood alone as a huge stop sign to all commercial growth in the very heart of Eagle. In depositions, we became convinced that there was no amount of money that would be enough for that small piece of ground. The URA offered just under $1 million per acre. This roadblock to economic development was not so important in the past. Now, as the City continues to build homes at a record pace, the need for commercial development to help pay for required services looms large in the future. We will eventually have to bring in commercial development to bring tax revenue, or make a painful choice: reduce services or raise taxes significantly. Like most growing cities, we help balance the books with fees from housing starts - $900,000 currently. They will stop or slow significantly when the next downturn comes. Let us keep firmly in mind that it is a business cycle.

Eagle and Old State Street; what shall we do as the traffic volume continues to grow, almost daily it seems! The City has engaged

Fulcrum Experience, a resolution management team. They will work to bring the ten divergent sub-groups together seeking a unified decision regarding the future of the intersection. Their team is engaging the subjective feelings and beliefs of the many participants in the decision process. They will bring that decision to the City Council by the end of October; then, the Council will deliver its preferred solution to ACHD for later implementation.

The Mayor’s Youth Action Council was sad to lose John and Michele Rice as advisors to these outstanding students. They were forced to cease their voluntary efforts because of family health issues. We thank them for their service to the MYAC group and send our best wishes and prayers for the challenges ahead. When it looked as if we would not have anyone to fill the position, we were blessed to have Captain Eugene Smith step forward. Captain Smith is Deputy Chief of the Boise Police Department and a resident of Eagle. We are so grateful to Captain Smith for answering the challenge.

It is that crazy time that arrives every four years when your elected officials seek the blessings of the public to endorse the job they are doing, or else seek your aid in throwing the rascal/s out, so to speak. We have a strong slate of candidates running for City Council; nine at last count. Further, Councilman Stan Ridgeway has decided to run for mayor. We are looking forward to a nice clean election focusing on the issues facing our amazing City. Don’t forget to vote on November 3rd.

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 Bldg, 44 N Palmetto Ave in Eagle.

Veterans welcome

Eagle Chamber of Commerce: www.eaglechamber.com.

To learn more about the

The chamber is active in the community and proactive in helping business members network and better achieve their goals.

PAGE 10 • October 2015

BUSINESS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Local Tire Business Becomes Eagle Tire Pros Local business owners, Kay and Mark Peterson join Tire Pros network

Eagle, ID - The previous Big O Tires store in Eagle, located at 2948 E. State St., is sporting a new name, Eagle Tire Pros.

"We’ve joined the best!" said Mark Peterson. "In June 2015, we signed a franchise agreement to convert the existing business into a Tire Pros. More than just an upgrade, this expansion will add tremendously to the business and competitive position."

According to Peterson, local resident and business owner, "We chose Tire Pros after ten years in business because it is the fastest growing franchise in the retail tire industry, and its competitive advantages allow us to serve our customers better." Kay and Mark Peterson celebrated this upgrade to their business with a ribbon-cutting and grand reopening on August 26.

With a network of more than 650 independently owned and operated tire and auto

service businesses in the nation, Tire Pros focuses on providing its customers a huge selection of major brand tires and wheels and expert auto service, with nationwide tire and service warranties. Because the network is more than 650 strong, each business is backed by state-of-the-art technologies, comprehensive training and extensive support.

"While Tire Pros is a national brand, we treasure our local customers. We look forward to providing the individual personal service we’ve always given to our customers and better," Peterson said.

Eagle Tire Pros is open Monday – Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. To learn more about the Eagle Tire Pros, contact Mark Peterson at the business’s new phone number, 208-939-4335, or visit www.TirePros.com.

Justice League Inaugural Charity Softball Game Story on page 21. Photos courtesy of Mike Olsen

Eagle Chamber of Commerce welcomed the revamped Eagle Tire Pros with a ribbon cutting in August.

Photo courtesy of Valley Times

Ada County Sheriff Steve “The Man” Bartlett

Representatives from the Women’s and Children’s Alliance Fund

About Tire Pros Tire Pros is a network of more than 650 independently owned and operated retail and service businesses focusing on major brand tires and wheels and expert auto service.

The first Tire Pros location opened in 1971 and the goal was simple – to create the best tire company anywhere. Period. That means carrying the best tires made, selling them at the best prices, and offering service second to none. To this day, Tire Pros continues this mission throughout the country.

Mark S. Freemyer Family Insurance, Inc

Eagle Police Chief Patrick “Pistol” Calley

Ryan “R-Dub” Wilkie, patrol deputy, safe at 3rd.

Star, Idaho - Our family has worked closely with Allstate for years to help people with their insurance needs – from homes to auto to boats and more. Our quality, service-oriented agency is not only owned and operated by a family, but customers tell us we make them Star Chamber of Commerce welcomed Allstate to the Star feel like family too. community with a ribbon cutting in September.

One of the things we like best about working with Allstate is the variety of products and producer, currently takes care of your insurservices we can offer customers. More than ance needs in Star. Our Star office is located insurance, we can offer a variety of solutions in ‘Toon Town’ on State Street. to address their financial needs – such as savKisha is a very busy mother of six, very acing for a child’s education or retirement. tive boys. The eldest is 15 and youngest are 4 We’re committed to helping you keep your year old twin boys. They keep her very active financial life on track. Not only can we assist with sports, camping, dirt biking and snowyou with Allstate’s broad range of financial so- boarding. Between working full time at the lutions, we can offer our knowledge to help Star office and managing a home and 6 boys, you achieve your financial goals. it keeps Kisha pretty busy.

We feel strongly about giving back to the Mark & Kisha look forward to having the community who supports us. We support opportunity to service this community and many community activities such as Hope we look forward to meeting you. Please feel House, local little league programs, such as free to stop by our Star office or call us baseball, football, soccer, basketball and many 208/278-1593. We are more than happy to others. We are members of Lion chapters of visit with you.

Emmett and Boise and local Chambers of We are your exclusive Star Allstate agency Commerce. We are currently involved in the and are in the business to protect your assets.

Ride for Joy program (for special needs people Our goal is to make sure that when you call and veterans) which is near and dear to our us the answer is “Yes” when something haphearts. pens beyond your control. We truly look forWe have 3 locations, one in Caldwell, Emward to being favored with your business. mett and now in Star. Our Star office is open Please join us at our grand opening and one Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Saturday year anniversary on November 6th in our Star by appointment.) Kisha Fairchild, a licensed office.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

BUSINESS

New Physical Therapy Clinic Open in Star

Star, Idaho - The residents of Star now have an additional option available for their physical therapy needs close to home. Boise River Physical Therapy is open for business and is now accepting new patients. The clinic is conveniently located at the corner of Star Rd and Highway 44 in the HB Shopping Plaza, next to Subway. The brand new 2,500 sq ft state of the art facility clinic will provide cutting-edge physical therapy care to the greater Star area. The outpatient clinic specializes in orthopedic, sports and industrial rehabilitation.

Boise River Therapy is owned and operated by physical therapist Jon LInk, PT, MPT, OCS, CSCS. Jon has been a practicing therapist in orthopedics for the past 15 years. He has extensive experience in treating a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions. He is a board certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist through the American Physical Therapy Association and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. In addition, Jon is also a certified clinician in Augmented Soft Tissue Mobilization (ASTYM), a treatment technique used in treating tendonitis-type conditions. His skills and expertise also include spine manipulations of the neck and back, foot orthotics, hand rehabilitation, post-surgical rehab, kinesiotaping and athletic performance enhancement. Jon is also a trained and certified provider for WorkSTEPS Functional Employment Testing.

“My wife and I recently decided to move our family from the frozen tundra of north-

ern Illinois to the Treasure Valley. We are very excited to be here and I am looking forward to continuing to provide individuals with relief from anything in the range of minor ailments to serious debilitating injuries. Having to place your life on hold due to pain is something that no one wants to deal with. Having a convenient location in the city of Star will hopefully detract from the inconvenience of the injury,” said Jon Link PT, MPT, OCS, CSCS. Prior to opening Boise River Physical Therapy, Jon was clinic director within an independent, Illinois-based physical therapy group, Orthopedic and Sports Therapy Institute (OSTI), that he remains the president of and continues to co-own. Boise River Physical Therapy will be the group’s northwest branch. Jon continues to stay active with OSTI’s current clinics in Illinois as he remains involved in the development and expansion of the corporation.

“One constant that will be ever present at Boise River Physical Therapy is the personal, attentive and passionate care that all patients deserve. No two patients and no two injuries are alike, and both will be treated as such. My goal is to get every patient back to feeling like their old self while putting a smile on their face during the process.”

The clinic will be open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Most insurance plans are accepted and walk-ins are welcome. Your insurance company may require a physician’s referral, but many plans don’t require this.

For more information on Boise River Physical Therapy, call 208-488-4250, visit us online at ostipt.com or stop in for a tour of the facility.

Star Chamber of Commerce welcomed Boise River Physical Therapy with a ribbon cutting in September.

Connor Williams: 2015 Eagle Grad Winning Film Awards

By Danielle Pryor the 17 year old making a Connor Williams feature and contacted has been making films Connor. “He asked me if since he was ten years I had any recognizable old. Last summer, the names in the film.” He then 17 year old made added, “The day they his first full length asked me, I had read that feature film, shot in Terry Kiser (Dead Guy/ only fifteen days.

Bernie) in Weekend at “I had flown to Bernies was in town shootSpokane to meet with ing another movie. Turns Cast of Spoilers producers for the SyFy out when my parents were network show, Z-Nation,” Connor said, “It was in college, they were hired to valet at Terry’s down to three kids and when I didn’t get it, I house party”. just decided I would dictate my own success Using that connection, Williams called as much as possible.”

Terry’s agent and negotiated the contract.

While Connor has landed some fantastic Right now you can rent or buy the film at parts in movies, he was frustrated after the www.spoilersthemovie.com.

Z-Nation debacle, so Spoilers the Movie was The film has played in 11 states and has set in motion. Everything about Spoilers the won multiple awards as best first feature or Movie was done quickly. best student film. He also won $60,000 in “I’m the only actor I know in the Treasure rental equipment and supplies on the condiValley. It is such a grind to be an actor, espetion he film his next film in Texas. cially from Eagle.” Connor adds, “My agent “I’ll do that in 1-3 years. I’m in no hurry calls me and tells me I have to have 3-4 pages now. But I am looking for the right script to of dialogue memorized and to be in Salt Lake direct.”

City the next day by 10am. So it’s up early, At the beginning of summer, Connor was make the drive, have 30 seconds to impress teaching under-privileged kids in Texas about everyone and then drive back.” film-making. His teaching was cut short as Spoilers the Movie is a modern day version he was cast in the movie, American Nobody. of The Breakfast Club. Williams chose to cast The Director/Producer of the film couldn’t kids much like himself from New York, find the right kid to play the lead. So his wife Chicago, Texas and California. went online and started browsing through “All of them had had a few scenes in big actors highlight acting reels. They found movies or had been leads in Independent Connor’s and reached out to him. films.” A film distributor had heard about Continued on page 14

October 2015 • PAGE 11

PAGE 12 • October 2015

COMMUNIT Y

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Meridian FFA Prepares for School Year at Western Idaho Fair

Ashlyn Schiers takes home the High Point Western and English FFA awards, as well as the overall High Point Quarter Horse award of Western Idaho Fair at the horse awards ceremony.

Photo by Trish Schiers

CJ Stirm, Grand Champion FFA Pygmy Goat Showman poses with her animal in between shows.

Photo by Heather Stirm

By: Alexa Phillips, Meridian FFA Chapter Reporter The Ada County Fair, more commonly known as the Western Idaho Fair, has traditionally been Meridian FFA’s main opportunity for members to show and sell their animals. This year’s fair was held August 1928 at the Boise fairgrounds. Meridian FFA had a total of 33 members compete at the fair this year. Despite the new school year overlapping with the 4-H/FFA show schedule, our chapter still had showmen for every large animal species. The following members represented Meridian FFA at this event: Sheep Showmen from the Meridian FFA included William Stokes, Mollie Hiscox, Cole Manda, Kaitlin Muniz, Katelyn Putzier, Killian Rasmussen, Dino Vinci, Trinity Martin, Kyle Schmit, Hannah Smith, Dani Turnbough, Hayden Turnbough, Vivienne Blom, Caydan Stirm, Ashton Shaul, Alyssa Hernandez, Tyson Hernandez, Zach Putzier, and Alexa Phillips.

Dairy Cattle Showmen from Meridian FFA were Madison Boyd, William Stokes, Ryan Bennett, Maddie Bennett, Hannah Smith, Kristen Nesbitt, Zach Phillips, Brandon Walton and Steffanie Eilers. Zach Putzier showed his beef steer through Meridian FFA this year.

Maddie Bennett, Ryan Bennett, and Jared Murphy were the market goat showmen of the chapter, and Maddie also showed dairy goat.

Pygmy goat showmen were Kiara Wetzel and Caydan Stirm, and swine showmen consisted of Zach Kerby, Jonathon Murphy, Ashlee Bowen, Zack Davis, Ryan Bennett, Maddie Bennett and Cara Gonzales.

Horse showmen from the Meridian FFA were Loretta Lacy, Alexa Phillips, Lauren Barker, Mallie Miller, Ashlyn Schiers and Danielle Vanderford.

Alexa Phillips represented the Meridian FFA by showing her alpacas.

Meridian FFA had the following members qualify to compete in the FFA large animal round robin competition: Steffanie Eilers, Dani Turnbough, Dino Vinci, Zack Davis, Ashlee Bowen, Maddie Bennett, Jared Murphy, Ashlyn Schiers and Alexa Phillips. Members sold their market and dairy animals at the Western Idaho Fair 4-H/FFA Dairy & Market Livestock Sales at the end of the fair. Money earned from these sales goes to these students’ future, whether that be college tuition or purchasing another future animal project.

As a chapter, we’d like to genuinely thank every buyer who financially supported these members’ Supervised Agricultural Experiences.

Reserve Grand Champion FFA Pygmy Goat Showman Kiara Wetzel prepares to enter the show ring with her animal.

Photo by Kiara Wetzel

FFA Large Animal Round Robin competitors from Meridian FFA. From left are Dani Turnbough, Maddie Bennett, Zack Davis, Jared Murphy, Dino Vinci, Ashlee Bowen and Alexa Phillips.

Not pictured is Ashlyn Schiers.

Photo by Kya Vines/Meridian FFA Advisor

Reserve Grand Champion FFA Swine Showman Ashlee Bowen poses with the fair's swine judge. Ashlee's breeding gilt won Reserve Grand Champion at the same fair.

Photo by Meridian FFA Yearbook Staff

Grand Champion FFA Swine Showman Zack Davis poses with his hog.

Photo by Zack Davis

From left, Zack Davis and Ashlee Bowen pose with their Grand and Reserve Showman ribbons following the FFA swine Photo by Meridian FFA Yearbook Staff

Grand Champion FFA Horse Showman Ashlyn Schiers enters the ring during the FFA showmanship class.

Photo by Trish Schiers

From left, Meridian FFA members Hannah Smith, Zach Phillips and Kristin Nesbitt show their dairy heifers.

Photo by Julie Nesbitt Alexa Phillips, Reserve Grand Champion FFA Horse Showman sets up her horse in showmanship class.

Photo by Stephanie Dormier

Reserve Grand Champion FFA Dairy Goat Showman Maddie Bennett prepares to enter the ring with her animal.

Photo by Meridian FFA Yearbook Staff

Grand Champion FFA Sheep Showman Dani Turnbough poses with her Reserve Grand Champion market lamb and family at the WIF 4-H/FFA Market Sale.

Photo by Western Idaho Fair

Brandon Walton and his Reserve Grand Champion Jersey Cross quality heifer.

Photo by Brooke Renouf

Reserve Grand Champion FFA Sheep Showman Dino Vinci shows his lamb in the FFA showmanship runoff.

Photo by Meridian FFA Yearbook Staff

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

E V ERYO N E HA S A

THE ARTS

October 2015 • PAGE 13

STORY

Local Author, Diana Robinson

that no one hears about.

By Melissa Upton It seemed like a good A writer takes pen to mysterious type of compaper and weaves a story pany. that invites her readers on TIN: Talk about your a journey through her process. With 5 kids, imagination. The writer you’ve got a lot going on. travels her own journey Robinson: For me to as she writes: a passenger write, I need total silence; to her characters, plot, Diana Robinson no one can be around. I and setting. Through need to be in my cave. So, perseverance, patience, I usually write in the middle of the day, when and creativity, the author gives us readers my youngest is sleeping and everyone else is a gift: an opportunity to lose ourselves in at school, or at night. Sometimes it’s really another world, if only for a while. fun to write at night; I have more energy at Local author, Diana Robinson, recently took such a journey and sat down with TIN night. It feels more intense when it’s all dark outside. to talk about her upcoming debut novel, The editing was really tough. The story itStorm Front. self is your creative mind at work - you can do TIN: Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Robinson: I am originally from California, but whatever you want. With editing, you have to completely step away from that. You can’t went to college in Rexburg, which is where I met my husband in our second year of school. think about storyline. You’re looking for grammatical flaws. It’s completely different He joined the military, so we moved out to brain power and really not as interesting to Mountain Home. Active duty was tough. We have 5 kids. He was deployed a lot, it seemed. me. I had the story memorized in some parts, He went to Iraq a couple of times, Afghanistan, so it was hard to separate. After my book was accepted by my publisher, Black Rose Writing Korea and Japan. Back then, it wasn’t as bad (blackrosewriting.com), I ended up hiring an as it is now, but it was still nerve-wracking.

Afterward, he opted to go back to school to do editor that works for them.

Guard, which brought us out here. We moved TIN: As a first time published author, it must to Middleton about 6 years ago, since we both have been difficult to find a publisher.

Robinson: I was actually looking for an editor, had family in the area.

TIN: When you first started writing this story, but through a Facebook connection, I contacted someone that happened to work for did you have a goal to write a book?

Robinson: No, I didn’t; I just wanted to write Black Rose and he said, ‘Don’t worry about an editor yet; find a publisher. They’ll have edia story. Usually, I would sit down at the computer and write when I was frustrated or wor- tors. You don’t want to spend a lot of money on editing if no publisher wants it.’ He gave ried about my husband overseas. It was me the information for Black Rose. relaxing.

I had received a lot of polite refusals at this I got an idea to write a story about the most point. Black Rose at first refused because they unlikely person defeating something huge had met their quota for the year. This was fall and evil. I had no idea what the evil was or of last year. They asked me to send it again in who the good person was yet. I just started the spring. I sent in the query letter in the writing and it developed into this fun story spring and they asked for a full manuscript. that I really love.

They took 3 months to review it, but eventuTIN: Tell us about the story.

Robinson: The main character is a recent col- ally sent me a contract.

TIN: What advice do you have for other aspirlege graduate who lands a great job in the oil ing novelists? industry. She discovers some odd paperwork Robinson: I would say, stick with your style. and gets tangled up in a sort of blackmailing Be true to your voice. It’s the only way you scheme against her boss. She is eventually used as collateral, and ends up in Italy, which can tell your story.

Robinson is working on the next installis where both her boss and the CEO - and the ment of her trilogy. Her debut novel, Storm source of the blackmailing - are from.

TIN: It sounds intriguing. How did you Front, is scheduled to be released October 8. choose the oil industry as your focus?

It will initially be available through blackRobinson: I just wanted something big and rosewriting.com or by contacting the author powerful, and oil just seems like a lot goes on through her website: dlrobinsonauthor.com.

TREASURE VALLEY WRITERS’ FEST & WRITING CONTEST to be sponsored by Idaho Creative Authors Network

The Idaho Creative Authors Network (ICAN) is honored to present the Treasure Valley Writer’s Fest and Writing Contest, a fall writing opportunity and writing contest for published and non-published authors.

The event will be held Saturday, November 7 from 2:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

at The Cloverdale Community Center, 1200 N. Cloverdale Road, Boise, Idaho 83713.

According to co-sponsor, Sheila Eismann, this event offers instruction pertaining to three important aspects of the writing process which are writing, editing, and publishing. The sponsors of this event speak from practical experience as they have written and published over 20 books thus far.

Using their collective writing and publishing experiences, the ICAN is pleased to offer the following presentations: Writing Exercise and Table Talks with Fellow Authors Editor’s Presentation with Q&A Publishing Process and Options (Both Print & Digital) with Q&A Writing Contest Awards Dinner The cost of attending the event is $79 if paid by October 15th and $89 if paid after October 15th up to and including the day of the event. The fee is non-refundable.

The paid registration includes the presentations, writing contest submission, and Awards Dinner. During the event, the sponsors will also feature their books for sale.

To purchase tickets and for more information, visit: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/treasure-valley-writers-fest-and-writing-contest.

For information on the Idaho Creative Authors Network, visit: http://www.facebook.com/ idahocreativeauthorsnetwork

Q: What is a vampire’s favorite fruit?

A: A nectarine!

Q: What kind of dessert does a ghost like?

A: I scream!

PAGE 14 • October 2015

THE ARTS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Incredibly Fascinating, The Martian is a Page-Turner

Star Elementary Orchestra Brimming with Budding Musicians

With the help of the Star Why did the violin player PTO and Shiverick Violins, Star climb the ladder? She wanted has purchased 4 double basses, to reach the high notes! Star Eltwo violins and one viola ementary has started the year which are all in use by our stuon a high note with 40 fourth dents. Please attend our congrade students and 28 fifth certs and show your support grade students learning violin, for these great kids. viola, cello and bass with the This year’s fourth grade first Star Elementary Orchesorchestra members are: Antra. Our first concert will be drea, Ellie, Tiffany, Jenna, Zoe, open to the community in NoAbbigayle, Aubrie, Reese, Carvember; email son, Natalie, Isaiah, Reagan, lewis.taggart@westada.org for Isabelle, Alexis, Zain, Brinley, details.

Josie, Lile, Devon, Ashlee, Star mom Sara Lee says, “As Wesley, Veronica, Seqouia, a parent with a child who loves Jaylyn, Hailee, KJ, Gabe, Toren, music, I am excited that my Brook, Cadance, Isaiah, Sean, daughter has the opportunity Carvell, Kamilla, Taylor, Reggie, to further her musical interests Wyatt, Bryson and PJ. at our neighborhood school. I In fifth grade, we have: Asia, appreciate that the process of Amy, Lindsey, Aiden, Kaleb, learning how to play an instruLindsey is one of the Sofia, Elijah, Dylan, Nikolette, ment is given "credit" for being musicians in this year’s Madison, Adam, Abby, Kendall, a worthy educational pursuit!!

Star Elementary Kayden, Ava, Jodie, Nicole, I'm also thrilled for ALL the Orchestra Delaney, Lane, Ashlyn, Olivia, kids at our school who have Jett, Lilyanne, Madison, Kelsy, the opportunity to learn how to play an instrument, particularly those who Ethan, Talon and Addison. Pictured is Lindsey. wouldn't otherwise have the opportunity.”

By Tom Wick “They say once you grow crops somewhere, you have officially colonized it. So technically, I’m a Martian!” exclaims Mark Watney, the universe’s first Martian. Presumed dead, Mark remains left behind during an emergency evacuation off the Red Planet.

He takes it all in stride. When he wakes up from his injuries and realizes his solitary situation on Mars, he records in his log entry, “My Wikipedia page will say, ‘Mark Watney is the only human being to have died on Mars.’”

The Martian, by first-time novelist Andy Weir, is the modern-day Robinson Crusoe, both epistolary novels, written with the same gut-wrenching hope for survival…and humor.

Weir’s novel can be described with any list of adjectives: suspenseful, nerve-racking, suffocating, page-turning, and funny. Originally self-published online in chapters back in 2011, Weir later self-published the completed novel via Kindle. Crown Publishing secured the rights in 2013 and last year it sat on the best-sellers lists. The film version has been scheduled to be released this month.

Watney, a botanist with an engineering background, must figure out how to survive for four years while waiting for the next scheduled mission (Crusoe was stranded for 28 years). After repairing communication equipment he realizes “All of Earth is watching and powerless to help” and “NASA just wants to continue some experiments.”

Because the planned mission only had enough food for a few months, including a Thanksgiving Dinner, Watney needs to start farming. And thankfully, the dinner had whole potatoes. He realizes that on a planet that cannot grow potatoes he can grow

THE FRINGE FESTIVAL

EAGLE HIGH SCHOOL DRAMA STUDENTS INVITED TO PERFORM AT THE FRINGE FESTIVAL IN EDINBURGH SCOTLAND, AUGUST 2016

The Eagle High School Drama Department, under the direction of Tracy Harrison, has been selected to perform in the world’s largest and most prestigious arts festival as part of the American High School Theater Festival (AHSTF). Each August, Edinburgh, Scotland becomes the most magical and exciting place on earth as performing artists from all over the world come to Scotland to take part in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Eagle High School, long recognized for its Q: What do moms dress up as on Halloween? entertaining and innovative productions, was A: Mummies! selected by the AHSTF Board of Advisors to represent the best of America’s high school theater at the international level. The Board reviews all completed applications and identifies the top high school based on their most

By Tom Wick, Universal Critic recent bodies of work, awards, community small screen, if you missed Shyamalan’s With The Visit, M. Night Shyamalan involvement, philosophies and recommendaWayward Pines 10-episode miniseries starreturns to the Silver Screen (and TV) after tions. Eagle High was invited to return for ring Matt Dillon be sure to watch it. Great nine disastrous years of turkeys like Lady in the 2016 season after an outstanding pershow if you like apocalyptic stories. the Water, The Last Airbender, and the uniformance at the Fringe in 2013.

If you missed the original Transporter film versally panned After Earth. In a few words, INVALUABLE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE series starring Jason Statham (or the TV The Visit was Weird. Bizarre. Interesting.

The students selected to represent our series): no worries. The Transporter: Refueled Creepy. Fun. And comes with a typical Shyacommunity will participate in an invaluable is a complete reboot with a higher grade of malan plot twist. learning experience; one that cannot be replifuel. Don’t get me wrong, I like Jason The movie is told from a fifteen year old girl’s perspective who is shooting a documen- Statham movies, but the original film series was not the best acted or directed and the tary about meeting her estranged grandparplots wore out fast. Refueled is pure popcorn ents for the first time. Her mother had married her high school teacher (which upset entertainment. You’re not going to get an Continued from page 11 Oscar nominated movie here. But the acting her parents), had two kids and then the guy “I didn’t have to audition. They loved my leaves her for another young girl (also typical) is slightly above par and the editing and acting style and said I had an edge to me. and now the grandparents want back in their soundtrack were enjoyable. It’s fast-paced I told them to call my agent and she worked and the action is fun. lives (I’m leaving out some plot points on In the Transporter movies, the transporter out the details so they flew me in from Austin purpose). At first I thought the movie was to Salt Lake.” He added, “It’s the first time will logistically move your product from going to be all handheld camcorder/shaky I’m THE lead. I’m in almost every scene.” point A to point B, guaranteed, for a cost. cam but Shyamalan mixed it up with some Driving home from the American Nobody You don’t ask questions, he doesn’t ask regular camera shots which comes off surshoot, he got a call and someone that had questions. He doesn’t even want to know prisingly well. watched Spoilers the Movie at a film festival what the product is. In this version of the Even though the film was a bit creepy, I in Texas cast Connor as the tough guy in a film series, the transporter’s father is kidwouldn’t quite put it in the same realm as a napped to ensure delivery of the product and film starring Quinton Aaron. Aaron is best horror film or thriller. It was just weird. And they both become part of the action. No need known for playing “Big Mike” in The Blindif you like weird and different, I’d say The to drop your twelve bucks on this one, but if side.

Visit is at least worth the cheap seats and if you need a night out and you like action “Making my movie has opened up opportuyou miss it on the big screen, it’s definitely films, this one is definitely worth your four nities for me.” The biggest opportunity may worth a Redbox. Hey, and speaking of the bucks at the cheap seats. be the scholarship he received from New York

uCritic......

potatoes for two reasons, “One, I’m a botanist, and two, I’m the best botanist on the entire planet!”

Weir uses Watney to tell us the best shipwreck/survivalist story since Crusoe.

Watney tragically and humorously realizes every day will be his last day on Earth Mars. He keeps us informed of all necessary and unnecessary activities with scientific jargon that actually makes sense. He takes the time to explain the difference between a MAV, EVAC, and an RTG. In fact, for us “civilians,” he likes to dumb it down, like, “Then I got a flexible sample container (Ziploc Bag) and tried to seal the RTG in it.”

Not completely written in first person, the story becomes more interesting about a third of the way in. An omniscient narrator weaves within Watney’s entry logs NASA’s ongoing public relations nightmare; as well as Watney’s crew, oblivious to Watney’s “resurrection.” NASA initially left the crew in the dark due to the psychological impact it would leave on the team. However, that was the least of NASA’s problem because once the crew finds out about Watney, they commit mutiny and, “sacrificing a year of their lives,” fly back to save him which puts everyone in peril (the fuel was provisioned for one round trip, not 1.5 trips).

Though classified as a “science fiction,” be sure to read this wonderful survival story.

I cannot promise you will be a sci-fi fan, but you will be a fan of Mark the Martian.

cated in the classroom. Not only will they be able to perform in an international forum, but they will gain a new appreciation of the many art forms theater encompasses. Each participant will return from the festival truly enriched as an individual and as a theater practitioner. They will in turn be able to share what they have learned with their fellow classmates and community. The overall impact of this experience will continue to affect our students and those whose lives they touch for years to come.

As a patron of the arts, we cordially invite you to help sponsor our cast as we travel our show to Edinburgh for two weeks in August of 2016. Donors will receive special recognition at local and international levels.

The students are actively raising funds. So far they participated in Eagle Fun Days and will be hosting The Fabulous Fringe Feast at Rembrandt’s on October 20th. Please mark your calendars and come support their cause.

Your tax deductible contribution will allow this opportunity to become a reality. To donate or sponsor the performance season, please email harrison.tracyj@westada.org

Connor Williams

Film Academy. Connor didn’t have any plans to go to college, but he couldn’t pass up the offer. “I felt like a D-1 athlete. I had two film schools that really wanted me and the scholarships kept getting better and better.”

Connor moved to North Hollywood September 15 . He plans to share his journey here in The Independent News over the next 4 months as he attends film school and survives with the big boys in Hollywood.

To rent/buy Spoilers the Movie go to www.Spoilersthemovie.com. If you have any direct questions regarding acting/filmmaking you can email Connor at theconnorwilliams @yahoo.com Grinkers will also give a free ice cream to anyone that rents or buys the movie.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

THE ARTS

EAGLE HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR PROGRAM PRESENTS COMMUNITY BBQ & CONCERT

The award winning choral program at Eagle High School (EHS) is presenting its annual fund raising dinner and concert on Thursday, October 8, 2015 starting at 5:30PM at Eagle High School. The dinner will feature a BBQ dinner from Eagle’s Bodacious Pig restaurant and live entertainment from EHS’s jazz choir, “Premium Blend.” Following the dinner, the choir program will present its Fall Concert at 8PM in the EHS Auditorium. The concert will feature over 200 singers including groups “Bel Canto,” “Bella Voce,” “Sonous,” “Varsity Men” and “A Cappella Choir.”

Tickets are $15/single or $25/couple in advance or $25/single or $40/couple if purchased at the door. A table of 8 is $100 in advance or $160 at the door. Advance tickets (are available online at www.myschoolfees.com (through September 30) and in the EHS bookkeeping office (until 3 PM on October 5) and. For more information about the dinner or concert call 208-870-7183.

This annual fundraising event will feature live jazz entertainment, BBQ from Eagle’s Bodacious Pig restaurant, a live auction and delicious promotional Dessert Dash. All of the funds raised will support the choir’s

October 2015 • PAGE 15

activities including their western United States tour to Seattle, expert choral residencies and to assist in updating the choir’s sound system. Following the BBQ and Dessert Dash, patrons will be invited to the Fall choir concert which will take place in the EHS Auditorium. Admission to the concert is free.

Sonous, a 57 voice select auditioned ensemble, will travel to the Seattle area in March 2016. Students will be performing at the BiAnnual Convention of the American Choral Director’s Association, Northwest Division and other venues, participating in exchange visits with the local high schools and working with college choral conductors.

Eagle High School is the only traditional four-year high school located in the Eagle/Star, Idaho community. The EHS Choir program is one of the largest choral programs in the state of Idaho with more than 200 voices. The award winning choral program has received superior (top ratings) at choir festivals across Idaho and the western United States. They are often invited to perform at both state and regional musical educator conferences as an example of a model choral program.

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Eagle High School Choir

PAGE 16 • October 2015

STAR NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Star Outreach Neighbors Helping Neighbors

By Mickie Park Star Outreach, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, was established in 2007 when they held their first Coat and Food Drive. The program has flourished ever since and has become one of Star’s strongest community programs offered for individuals and families.

Twice a year in the fall and spring, Star Outreach hosts a Food Drive throughout Star.

In mid-October, a grocery bag with a flyer is placed at each household with a request for donations. The food drive usually lasts 30 days, but the food donated supplies the food bank with food for months.

Star Outreach is always looking for canned goods such as soups, vegetables, sauces, and fruit. With the Community Garden and donations made from various individuals, there has been a tremendous supply of fresh vegetables, including onions, corn on the cob and potatoes.

Donations can be delivered to the Star Outreach office located in front of City Hall at 10775 W. State Street Monday - Thursday: hours do vary. If the office is closed, there

Star Outreach is located at 10775 W. State Street

are blue barrels in front of the office or you may drop off your donations at City Hall or the Star Fire Department.

Whatever size of donation you can give, big or small, it helps. Currently there are approximately 70 - 80 families in our community who benefit from the help of your donations and Star Outreach.

STAR FALL FESTIVAL

The Star Chamber of Commerce will present the Star Fall Festival on Sunday, October 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Star Community Barn on the corner of Star Road and 3rd Street in Star, Idaho.

This family-fun community event will have face painting, a bounce house and other children's activities. There will be two bands playing either 70's or bluegrass music along with popcorn, hot apple cider, pizza, pies and vendors.

You won't want to miss this extraordinary fun-filled event!

Loni's balloon artistry can help your business. Call 208-442-7268, e-mail loni@BalloonArtistIdaho.com or visit BalloonArtistIdaho.com.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

October 2015 • PAGE 17

STAR NEWS

Star FireFighters Train with Life Flight

By Melissa Upton STAR - On Sept. 1, Life Flight crew landed in Hunter’s Creek Park in Star as part of recertification training for Star firefighters. Also in attendance were members of Ada County Paramedics and Ada County Sheriff.

Continuing Education All of the firefighters at Star Fire Protection District are EMTs. According to the Idaho Health and Welfare website, all EMTS are required to complete a minimum of 48 hours of continuing education during each license cycle, which occurs every 2 yrs. The Star Fire Protection District participates in a variety of

Life Flight comes well-equipped for in-transit emergency response.

training throughout the two years as required by the state.

Firefighter Adam Ward mentioned that Star Fire personnel hadn’t had Life Flight training in about 4-5 years, so it was time to refresh their knowledge and skills in this area.

The Life Flight Network Life Flight is an air ambulance service that partners with local agencies to provide lifesaving transportation to area hospitals. The Life Flight Network crew are first responders that serve the Northwest and, according to their website, in its 37 years of service has transported approximately 90,000 patients.

Each transport in their fleet is staffed with fleet nurses and paramedics. Life Flight helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft are able to reach patients in remote areas where ambulances cannot safely travel. In addition to their helicopters, the Life Flight Network is also equipped with fixed-wing and ground transport.

The Life Flight Network is a not-for-profit organization. Air transport and medical care are quite costly; affordable memberships are available to offset the expense. These mem-

berships are not insurance; the membership enables Life Flight to work with the patient’s medical insurance. Costs not covered by insurance are covered by the membership, according to their brochure, which can be found on their website. Membership, however, is not a requirement for transport. Life Flight serves all patients who need medically necessary transport as determined by medical professionals.

Learn more about the Life Flight Network and their membership at www.lifeflight.org.

First responders gather around Life Flight crew for training.

Life Flight helicopter landing in Hunter’s Creek Park in Star.

Pheasant Hunter’s Breakfast On another note, the annual Star Fire Pheasant Hunter’s Breakfast is coming up this month on October 17. The firefighters will be serving an all-you-can-eat breakfast from 6 - 11:30 a.m. at the station. The cost is $6 for adults and $4 for seniors and children 12 and under. The proceeds benefit local charities.

Mark your calendars to come out and meet your local first responders who give so much to our community.

To learn more about the Star Fire Protection District, visit www.starfirerescue.org, follow them on Twitter and like them on Facebook.

Star’s Harvest Festival & Trunk Treat 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Halloween at the Community Barn It is back this year!

Bring those ghosts and goblins along to the Community Barn on Star Road for a fun-filled FREE event for the community!

Activities include trunks to treat, bounce house, food, contests, games, cookie decorating, face painting, best costumes, old fashioned festival games, photo booth, mummy wrap and pumpkin decorating.

1st, 2nd and 3rd Prizes for best decorated trunks and best carved pumpkins!

(Bring your carved pumpkin along if you want to enter) A few volunteers that simply want to provide a fun, community activity for the families in Star coordinate this event. There are some needs, however, More information can be found and any assistance would be appreciated! on Facebook Needed - trunks, games, volunteers to man booths, donations for nominal costs.

Star Community Events If you would like to provide a trunk for treats, just show up NO LATER THAN 2:30 p.m.

Questions?

For safety reasons, cars cannot enter the area after that, and please, no pets!

Call Theresa at 286-0734

William S. Kirtley: April 11, 1920 to Aug. 22, 2015

Continued from page 1 Jack says he remembers living in the old Farmer’s Bank of Star for a short period during the 1960’s while his family’s house was being built.

“Me and Butch slept in the vault,” he said.

“We were in the process of building a new house and we didn’t have anywhere else to live. It was a two-story, huge brick building. My grandfather owned that. The bank didn’t close during the depression in the ‘20’s like most banks did. It opened in 1907, but we eventually had to tear it down because it got so dilapidated. It became a hazard.”

Jack says Star was a different place when he was young and his father ran the Merc.

“There was this organization called the Interdenominational Holiness Association, on Star Road, just south of Third Street, the barn there: once a year they’d open the doors on that big

white building and have revival tents on the grounds, where whatever religion wanted to come in could come set up a tent, and people could go from tent to tent to listen to sermons, and things, to see what their aspect of the religion was, and to see if they wanted to join the denomination,” he said.

According to Jack, Star’s main drag used to be lined with at least seven gas stations and that certain “characters” helped give the town color.

“Sherm Willis raised chickens and had Willis Egg Farm. He sold eggs to Albertsons and everybody,” he said. “He turned the old church into a hen house. The place really smelled. This guy could have 300 flies on his face while he looked at you and talked to you, and he wasn’t bothered by them because he had to deal with them on a day-to-day basis.”

Jack says he remembers when Star Road was “only about a car and a half wide” and the

Conoco gas station that occupied the land where Blake Trailers now stands.

He says the memories of his father are, in part, directly connected to Star and its history, intimating that the “new crowd” of people making up the community will never know what he contributed. At the same time, his own family seemed to take a back seat.

“His life was the community, so it’s hard to differentiate a personal aspect of his life because he was so involved in everything else,” Jack said.

“Pretty much we came second. I think anyone in our family would vouch for that.”

According to his obituary, Jack Kirtley “was a kind-hearted man who would rather loan money to someone in need than buy himself new clothes or shoes. We will never know the full amount of money Bill ‘lent’ out over the years.

He spent his last few years in Star, surrounded by his friends and family. He loved tooling

Photo courtesy of the Kirtley family

around town in his beloved golf cart with his late dog, Emma, and pestering the employees at the Star Merc, which is still in the family and operated by his sons. He spent many days with friends at the senior center and the Star Café.”

PAGE 18 • October 2015

CIT Y OF STAR

Thanks to all our Summer Lunch volunteers.

You made it a great success.

Our current needs are dire.

We need canned fruit, beans, and soups, spaghetti sauce, and bar soap.

We will be doing a food drive in Oct and Nov. Look for our fliers in Star and please help.

Star Outreach needs volunteers. Contact Connie 208-340-2702

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.

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.

October 2015 Star Chamber Calendar

WE WANT TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE BOARD HAS UNANIMOUSLY AGREED TO Larry Osborn to take over the Treasurer position. Larry comes with an impressive resume and a go to and get it done, attitude. We hope you will take time to meet him in the October meetings.

Oct. 1 at 11:45am- Out To Lunch with the Chamber

Come network and enjoy meeting new business folks. Eat well and bring a raffle or two, and bring a business friend with you. Westside Pizza on the corner of Hercules and Star Road.

Oct. 1 at 12:45 pm – Ribbon Cutting for a New Business

Come support your new business(es) in their grand opening and ribbon cutting events.

We need to have a good crowd to help with banners, and more. TBA

Oct. 4th (Sunday) - NEW Fall Festival Event

Bring your families and come enjoy all of the family activities that are found in one place… at the Community Center Barn on Star Road next door to Star Community Church.

All Star Businesses and Chamber members are invited to have a booth. Members have free booths….$10 for non members. Looking for sponsors for the activities, band and services.

Contact April or Michelle @ president@staridahochamber.com

Oct. 15 at 6:30pm Membership Meeting

Networking, Chamber Business and nominations for any open seats on the board.

Elections will be at the November Membership meeting.

Star Christmas Extravaganza Registration is Open!

Bazaar, Music, Decorate Star and Festival of Star’s Registrations. All return vendors will be given first right of refusal at preregistration beginning on Sept. 20th and open booth spaces will be filled on a first come, and qualified business basis. We are not accepting more jewelry or cosmetic vendors this year. However, we would like to see more handmade items, Christmas ornaments etc, food and toy vendors this season. Bands, and music groups wanted for the Music Festival.

Decorate Star will be occurring. Star Lions and Star Chamber Festival of Stars Silent Charity Auction.

For more information contact Tammy at President@StarIdahoChamber.com www.StarIdahoChamber.com • (208)-908-5476 • president@staridahochamber.com See the Star Chamber of Commerce on Facebook

STAR LIBRARY - October Events

We celebrate Teen Read Week from October 19 - 24.

Teens ages 12 and older may have up to $10 in fines waived during this week just by coming in and checking out a book, or attending the Teen program, Books and Bites.

Mondays 10/5, 10/19, 10/26 Preschool Play and Learn Story time, (3 -5 years), 10:30 a.m.

After-School Adventures, (grades 1~6), 4 - 5 p.m.

Each week features a new craft activity plus a story!

Tuesdays 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27 Star Quilters Meet at the library, 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Open to anyone interested.

Teen Tuesdays, (12 and up), 4 - 5 p.m. - a time to socialize and have some fun. This month will feature Gaming, Mini-Monsters, Books ‘n Bites, and more.

Puppet Show on 10/27, 4:30 p.m.

– all ages welcome.

Wednesdays 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28 Star Knitters Meet at the library, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Open to anyone interested.

Minecraft play, (ages 8+), 4 - 5 p.m.

X-box and online versions.

Thursdays 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29 Babies and Toddlers story time, (birth - 3 years), 10:30 a.m. Stories, fingerplays, and songs for little ones and a parent.

Maker Time, (all ages), 4 p.m.

We will be creating the city of Star with legos!

Fridays 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30 Music and Movement, (all ages) 10:30 a.m. – Kids learn rhythm, coordination and other skills while moving to music.

Saturday 10/10; 10/31 “Beyond the Book” discussion, (adults) 10 a.m. on 10/10. We are reading The Lacuna,

by Barbara Kingsolver. Stop by the library early to pick up a copy of the book and join us for a rousing discussion.

Trick or Treat the Library 1 - 3 p.m. on 10/31! All kids are welcome to come in costume and receive a treat!

*Preschools and daycares are welcome to call the library to schedule a story time visit!

Every child ready to read – free workshop for parents and kids 0 - 6 yrs!

Learn how to help your kids be better prepared for kindergarten and beyond.

3 sessions – pre-registration required; call the Star Branch Library.

Thursday evenings, 10/22, 10/29, 11/5 from 6:30 - 7:15 p.m.

Free books, music and more for every family.

The Star Branch Library will be closed on Monday, October 12th for Columbus Day. 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

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

October 2: October 2: October 2: October 5: October 7: October 12: October 14: October 14: October 20: October 21: October 21: October 22: October 23: October 26: October 30:

October Activities: Music by Bob Comstock – starts at 11 a.m.

Foot Clinic/Cost $25/starts at 9 a.m./Call 286-7943 to make appt.

Blood Pressure taken by Star’s firemen Walmart Shopping – Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Goldmine Newsletter arrives Outing to Black Bear Diner - Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Hearing Clinic (ear cleaning) – 10:30 a.m. - Free Board Meeting Appointment Day/$12 haircuts, bank, doctor appointments, etc.

Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Birthday Recognition Music by Bob Comstock – starts at 11 a.m Appointment Day/$12 haircuts, bank, doctor appointments, etc.

Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Health Fair from 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Outing to Caldwell Senior Center - Contact Bethe @ 286-7943 Rootbeer floats – starts at 11 a.m. – 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.

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

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.

Needlepoint for all ages and abilities Fit and Fall Prevention™ Class taught by the talented Dyan Kastner.

Sponsored by Central District Health.

Classes will be held on Wednesday No Cost – Join Anytime!

4:30 - 6 p.m. at Star City Hall $5.00/class.

Held at Star City Hall 10769 W. State St. No experience needed. Bring project 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Monday Wednesday, Friday or call for suggestions at 286-7247.

Tennis is Elementary Grades K-5.

Star Community Garden: Monday and Tuesday in October at 4:30 - 5:30 Benefitting our local families and seniors. p.m. beginning October 5th. TiE, an after school Call 340-2702 to see how you can help with beginning tennis program developed by the fall harvest and winter crop planting.

Idaho Tennis Association, will be held at Star EleNew**Star Elementary Bench Exercise Series mentary (700 N. Star Rd). Cost is $38 and @ Star Elementary Track are all ready for your space is limited to the first 25 students. Regisfall shape up. Look for orientation dates on ter at www.idahotennis.com. Tennis is ElemenStar Recreation Facebook page. tary introduces children to one of the USA's Late Winter Basketball Registration: fastest growing sports on their level. The pro$30.00 resident/ $35 non-resident through gram is instructed by qualified staff and uses October 9. smaller racquets, foam or low-compression Ages 6 to 11: The season will begin Nov. 2 thru balls, and reduced court sizes. Tennis shoes are recommended. All other equipment is provided. Feb. 26. There will be 3 divisions 6&7, 8&9, & 10&11 all divisions will play 6 to 8 games and Pilates Tuesday and Thursday have at least 1 practice per week depending on 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. taught by experienced the age division. Games and practices Monday instructor Julia Hilleary. Class meets at thru Thursday evenings at Star Elementary.

Star City Hall and all abilities are welcome.

“T’was the Night Before Christmas”, $25/class per month. Class will be ongoing based on the famous poem by Clemente Clarke with the minimum of 6 participants. with music by Sally K. Albrecht and Jay Althouse.

Please bring a mat.

Children in Kindergarten through 6th grade are Yoga Monday and Wednesday encouraged to be a part of this Star tradition.

9 - 10 a.m. at Star City Hall ongoing throughout Cost: $15 and a costume. Practice starts the the winter months (September- May). Bring a week of October 19th at Star Community yoga mat and $25 per month. Call 286-7247 Church. Sign up at www.staridaho.org or call for more details.

286-7247 if you have queations.

2015 Mayor’s School Walking Challenge October is WALKtober and we are inviting Mayors throughout Southwest and South Central Idaho to participate in a walking competition during the month of October. Elementary schools are invited to also participate in the challenge to encourage healthy kids through healthy eating and physical activity. Schools with the highest average number of miles per student will win $2,000 for physical activity equipment and food service equipment! The Mayor who walks the most miles in October will receive $5,000 to donate to a park or school of their choice for new physical activity equipment!

Students and Mayors will log student long miles walked during Thursday, October 1, 2015 through Friday, October 30, 2015. Mayors will receive Fitbits provided by Blue Cross of Idaho to track their steps and give realtime leader updates. Call 208 286-7247 if you would like to participate.

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!!

October 2015 • PAGE 19

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Your Coolant System

We're continuing our talk about your vehicle's coolant system. Last month we flushed the system. Now, let's check and replace the thermostat.

Here are a few things to check before deciding to replace your thermostat: the coolant level, drive belt tension and temperature gauge operation. An engine that seems to be taking longer to warm up, or is running cooler than normal per your temperature gauge, may indicate the thermostat is stuck open. If that is the case, you will need a new thermostat.

Removal and replacement of the thermostat typically involves the following: 1. Park your car on level ground. When working under the hood and where toxic chemicals, remember all safety rules, including wearing safety goggles and gloves.

2. Drain the cooling system. Unscrew the thermostat housing and connecting radiator hose.

3. If you are replacing the thermostat, drain just enough of the coolant to level slightly below that of the thermostat housing. If your coolant is less than a year old, then drain it into a clean container and reuse it when the thermostat is reinstalled. If you see draining the coolant as a problematic or are uncomfortable working around toxic fluids, leave this repair for your technician at Steve's Auto Care.

4. Note the location and placement of your thermostat so you can set the new thermostat back in the same place.

5. Check for corrosion or old glue from the thermostat housing and remove.

Carefully clean the thermostat housing and all the mating surfaces of any old gasket material to avoid leaks.

6. Put the new thermostat in place, put on the new gasket, and replace the housing. Some vehicles will require that any air be bled out Steve Green of the cooling system of Steve’s once it's refilled. Again, Auto Care check vehicle specs to make sure you're at proper torque.

7. Everything is back in place now, so you can check your work by running the engine for a while and check for leaks.

8. Go for a drive and make sure the temperature gauge stays at full operation temperature should be anywhere in between the middle of your gauge.

9. Check for coolant leaks again, and your job is done. Usually if you do routine maintenance, you can prevent overheating by checking the level of fluid in the system and maintaining it properly. If the cooling system is not maintained properly you can run risks of overheating, which can mean heavy repair bills that won't guarantee the car won't over heat again. The best advice is to keep the cooling system in good repair, keep an eye on your coolant level and have your technician here at Steve's Auto care take a look at it for you during your maintenance oil changes.

Following these simple maintenance and troubleshooting tips will help keep your vehicle's cooling system running like a champ no matter how hot it gets.

If you have any questions or any tips you'd like me to write about for The Independent News, feel free to contact Steve at Steve's Auto Care (208) 863-2748 and have a Safe and Blessed month.

This is a Paid Advertorial

Steve's Auto Care (208) 863-2748

~ Letter to the Editor ~

Reading the September 2015 issue of TIN, I noticed the “Random Thoughts” piece by Gretchen Anderson. It was not the topic of cell service but her conversation with her friend “Mary,” Eagle City Council member, referencing NIMBYs that caught my attention.

In the August 31 Valley Times, Mary McFarland posted an article entitled “Public Service: Is It worth It?” She laments that “Social Media is rampant with half-truths, speculation and personal attacks.” She can’t figure out why she is the one constantly called out.

Her statement to Gretchen about NIMBYs (not-in-my-backyard) might contain a hint as to why. Could it be name-calling and contempt with which she refers to her constituents (in print and in open meetings) that places her in such sharp focus? She should understand that in many cases, those “NIMBYs” are property owners, invested heavily in the property they call home. I’ve been told that Mary is a renter and doesn’t own property in Eagle, and if wrong, I apologize. But if it’s correct, then Mary should not be so critical of her property owner constituents. People near the cell towers will see their property devalued and are trying to protect their investment. I wonder how Mary would react if the tower were in her “backyard”? (Oh, wait – she may not “own” a backyard.)

If she wishes to avoid critics, then I suggest that she seek professional counseling to improve her PR skills - and to teach her a little humility.

James Pauls Eagle Resident

Food Donation Needed

PUZZLE ON PAGE 7

Eagle Foodbank

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Another affordable way to advertise your business or service!

Over 16,000 copies distributed to Eagle and Star, with drops in N Meridian and W Boise!

Call 794-6858 or email theindnews.story@gmail.com

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.

OCTOBER EVENTS

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

Library calendars, Eagle and Star city meetings, and Chamber of Commerce information can be found listed separately throughout the newspaper.

City of Eagle news, pg. 6 & 7; City of Star news, pg. 16 and on the online calendar at

www.theindnews.com

PAGE 20 • October 2015

STAR NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Star Police Chief Laraway Returns to Duty After Crash

Check out our new and improved website

www.theindnews.com and let us know what you think of it.

By Philip A. Janquart Star Police Chief John Laraway returned to work Sept. 14 after taking time off for injuries sustained in a car collision.

The collision occurred on July 16 at a fourway stop at Robinson and Amity Roads.

Laraway, 58, was waiting at the stop sign when his Chevy Tahoe was rear-ended by a truck driven by Wesley Watts, 46, of Nampa who was traveling at about 50 miles per hour.

“I was logged off and heading home, going south on Robinson Road, and came to the stop sign at Amity,” he explained. “There was a truck and a horse trailer in front of me, and I was waiting for it to go through the stop sign. It had started to move forward and I was next, so I just started to move up. I looked through my rear view mirror and saw this truck coming and thought ‘he isn’t going to stop.’”

The impact crumpled the Tahoe, a Star Police Department vehicle.

Watts’ truck went through two fences and an irrigation ditch before bouncing over Amity Road and coming to rest in a field.

Watts was not driving under the influence, according to Laraway, who lives in Kuna.

“He (Watts) told the Idaho State Police they did the investigation - that he dropped his water bottle and that he was looking for it, found it and put it in his cup holder when he looked up and there I was,” he said. “He said he hit his accelerator instead of his brake.”

Watts was cited for inattentive driving, according to Laraway who sustained a “highgrade” concussion and 15 stitches as a result of the impact.

“The force of him hitting me from behind lifted me up and threw me back over the head rest and I hit the glass partition that separates us from the back seat,” he explained. “I went to the emergency room and they took some CAT scans, made sure I didn’t have any broken bones. They gave me some stitches and made sure there wasn’t any permanent damage, and sent me home.”

Laraway spent the next two months recovering.

“I’d go to bed at about ten o’clock and every night, at 1:30 in the morning, I’d wake up and stay awake the rest of the night. No alarms,

Star Police Chief John Laraway

no nothing, so I’d get about two and a half hours of sleep,” he said.

He also developed temporary speech problems.

“My brain wasn’t healing and it started causing other problems,” Laraway said. “I would stutter quite a bit. It was horrible. My boss and I had a discussion about my ability to speak, because it had gotten that bad.”

The stuttering has since disappeared, Laraway now back to work and feeling fine.

He credits the Chevy Tahoe, which was totaled, for protecting him.

“We are thankful because if it had been a Crown Vic (Ford Police Interceptor), it wouldn’t have turned out good at all because they have those gas tanks right there in the back.” he explained. “The Tahoe has become quite the topic because of its safety features. The impact was so hard, it broke all the cross frames up to the rear axles, but because of the way it’s built, it buckled, but you could still open all the doors.”

Laraway said he is happy to be working again.

“It’s good to be back,” he said. “I was getting bored at home and I think my dog was getting tired of me.”

Laraway has been Star’s police chief since 2011.

Community Helps Star Police Enhance Safety with New Equipment

By Philip A. Janquart The Star Police Department recently acquired an infrared camera that has made it easier and safer for officers to do their job.

Infrared technology is based on thermal imaging, a system that uses heat (infrared energy) to create an image on a video monitor. The technology has various applications, including searching for fugitives in the dark of night.

“It’s a safety thing,” said Star police chief John Laraway. “You’ve probably heard stories where police officers get into foot pursuits and run into a field not really knowing where the guy is. And, in houses, we used to have to stick our heads around corners. With a flashlight, you become the target. Well, you don’t have to do that now.”

Night vision has been used by the military and law enforcement agencies for decades, but the technology has limits, its ability to form images dependent on available light from the moon, stars and artificial sources.

Dim or obstructed light sources, or too much light, can make it difficult for night vision devices to form an image.

Infrared cameras are different, using heat instead of light to form images.

Laraway said the department purchased a $4,000 FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) brand camera, in part, with funds donated by local business owners.

“My budget obviously doesn’t support that kind of a purchase, but two gentlemen donated funds that allowed us to buy the camera,” he said.

(Laraway) said it really helped, so I told him to hang on to it.”

Laraway and his officers were so impressed they decided it would be beneficial for the department to have one of its own.

That’s where Stroup and fellow business owner, Robert Wurster of Edward Jones, stepped in, donating about $3,000 between the two of them toward the purchase of the handheld FLIR. From left: Stroup, Laraway and Wurster “I know the chief (Laraway) during a brief ceremony at Star's Aug. 4 from being involved with the city, city council meeting. going to city council meetings,” Wurster said. “I did it because I Ingo Stroup owns Building Energy Corporawant to make Star a better community. I feel I tion, a business that specializes, among other have a responsibility as a business owner to things, in certifying buildings for efficiency help make our community the best it can be.” under HERS, the Home Energy Rating Sys“Look at what they do for us,” Stroup said, tem. Stroup, who says he became acquainted with Laraway through his regular patrols, uses infrared technology to detect heat loss in buildings.

“He goes around to businesses to see if everything is ok, to check if there have been any problems like break-ins. That’s how we met,” he explained, referring to Laraway.

“I had been showing him how our infrared camera works and offered to loan it to the city.”

The Star Police took him up on the deal following a short demonstration.

“We loaned it to them for quite some time and it helped them find people in the dark.

A look at Chief Laraway through the They lit up like fireflies,” Stroup said. “He eyes of the FLIR camera.

Star Police Chief John Laraway explains how the FLIR infrared camera forms images by using heat.

referring to the Star Police. “They check out our homes and businesses in the morning and at night. Having the camera will help keep our officers safe. Can you imagine looking for someone who is armed, in the dark, in a field? The camera tells you exactly where he is, and if he is pointing a weapon. It helps keep the officer safe, and the perp, too.”

Stroup and Wurster were presented plaques and certificates in recognition of their contributions at an Aug. 4 city council meeting.

The businessmen said they were not seeking attention, but Laraway stressed that they deserved a little.

“For a small town like this, to have the community step in and help, I mean, you can’t ask for more than that,” he said. “That’s believing in something.”

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

TRINA’S

FITNESS CORNER

I am asked many questions daily, ranging from nutrition, cardio training, weight training, stretching routines - just to name a few.

Here are a sampling of questions I’ve received

and my thoughts: Q: “My father-in-law eliminated all breads and pasta from his diet. He lost 30 pounds. I love bread, and I don’t think I could do without it.

What should I do?”

A: We need carbohydrates in our diet. Carbohydrates provide us with pure energy, as well as a great source of fiber for everyday balance.

If your body tolerates bread and pasta, take a look at your nutrition label and note the first four ingredients; be sure they include an organic whole grain substance along with 4 grams of fiber per serving. Secondly, I recommend we start simple when it comes to wanting to lose a few pounds. Look at your habits, do you overeat? Do you undereat? Do you eat at least 2 fruits a day? How about your water?

Start with improving only one of these habits until it becomes a daily part of your life.

Q: “I want to get back into the gym, where do I begin?”

A: If you are not the usual gym doer and perhaps you are doing absolutely nothing right now, begin with something super simple, “walking”. I once gave a client of mine the simple challenge of 5 minutes each day for 7

October 2015 • PAGE 21

FITNESS

Q&A

days. If she felt good after 7 days then she could move up to 10 minutes each day for 7 days, then 15 minutes. The idea behind something so simple is to establish a routine.

Q: “Every day I am riding the Elliptical Trainer or I run on the treadmill. I eat a very healthy diet, yet I can’t lose these last 5 pounds, what more can I do?”

A: A couple of things come to mind and one of them is Restorative. Try a simple stretch class which should include a rest period or try adding in just a “plain-ole rest day”. Give your body a chance to catch up and repair itself.

The other thing that comes to mind is ‘do you have 5 pounds to lose?’ Maybe your body needs some reshaping. Try something new, such as core work, a Pilates class, or yoga. It might be just what your body needs.

Q: “When I get home from work I fix a nice dinner, but then after dinner I can’t seem to stop eating.”

A: There is a simple remedy for the after dark overeater. Eat more during the day! Usually we start off our day with a decent breakfast, and then we get so busy we may only have a snack for lunch or skip lunch altogether.

When 3:00 o’clock comes around we reach for a caffeine fix then we head home. Our nice dinner is delicious, but not enough to satisfy the already negative deficit we’ve created. So we keep eating…. Eat at least 4 meals during the day. You should consume ¾ of your calories by dinner time, which means each meal should equal at the least 300 calories.

Consult your physician before starting a fitness or exercise program. Trina’s column is written for educational purposes only. In no way is it to diagnose, cure or treat any medical conditions.

Trina K Kubitschek , 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 nutrition and fitness goals. Visit Trina at http://crossfitstation.com

Justice League Inaugural Charity Softball Game

Justice League Inaugural Charity Softball Game was played on Saturday September 20, at the Mountain Cove Softball fields in Boise.

The event was hosted by the ADA County Sheriff's Employees Association. The ACSEA is a non-profit organization serving the entire ADA County community. They provide support for the employees of the ADA County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the ADA County Community. http://adacountysea.org/about-us/ The ACSEA played the ADA County Prosecutors Office https://adacounty.id.gov/ prosecutor/Home to help raise money for the Women’s and Children’s Alliance. www.wcaboise.org. The players all had nicknames. Chief Calley was Patrick “Pistol” Calley, and Sheriff Bartlett was Steve “The Man” Bartlett.

“Providing safe places for women to live has been at the core of our mission for over 100 years. The WCA started in 1910 as the Boise YWCA (Young Women’s Christian Association). It was established to provide a safe place for young single women to live, eat, and socialize. In addition to room, board, and other basic services, the YWCA offered classes, camps, and community service opportunities to Boise women for decades.

In the early 1980s, the YWCA began transforming into the organization that we have today. During this time, the Rape Crisis Alliance and domestic violence Crisis Center were established to continue embodying the mission to provide a safe place for women in new ways. In 1996, we officially became the Women’s and Children’s Alliance.”

September 20, 2015

More photos on Page 10 Photos courtesy of Mike Olsen Photography

PAGE 22 • October 2015

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

A Teacher’s

Perspective

FIFTY IS THE NEW THIRTY??????

Q: What is the most important subject a witch learns in school?

A: Spelling.

Q: Why didn’t the skeleton go to the ball?

A: Because he had no BODY to go with.

Q: What room does a ghost not need?

A: A living room!

Q: Why are ghosts so bad at lying?

A: Because you can see right through them!

Q: Who did Frankenstein take to the dance?

A: His “ghoul” friend!

By Anna Eaton-Merkle Whenever I have a big event or trip coming up, I try to do my research. I will study maps, read historical fiction, cross reference Trip Advisor and Rick Steves. If I am going out to dinner, I read restaurant reviews. If I am making a purchase, I read Consumer Reports. Therefore, as I near my 50th birthday, I’ve been studying up. What could it hurt?

I started out thinking I would just see who else in the celebrity world is turning 50 this year. Call it misery loves company, or just curiosity; I wanted to see what 50 looks like in popular culture. This was probably not one of my more well thought out plans.

Curious? I started with Carrot Top, Charlie Sheen, and Billy Zapka (“Sweep the leg, Johnny!”). Not too bad – none of these guys are heroes of mine. And for that matter, to me they looked neither especially old or awful.

Ok. J.K. Rowling. That one hurt a bit – she IS wildly successful and lovely. My all-American novel currently sits spread out over several notebooks and in no particular order.

Bob Harper. In case you are not familiar with who this is, he is one of the amazingly buff personal trainers from The Biggest Loser. I guess I COULD do a little better with my fitness regime. Slash from Guns-n-Roses. My career as a rockstar is really not going anywhere anyway. But then I hit the big time.

Also turning 50 this year: Cindy Crawford, Brooke Shields, Diane Lane, Linda Evangelista, and Elizabeth Hurley to name a few. What the heck? How am I supposed to feel good about myself in comparison to these women? In case you haven’t seen them lately, they are quite perfect and have apparently signed a pact with the devil to avoid aging indefinitely.

I tried looking up “People who are 50 but really look much older.” Believe it or not, this search did not yield any therapeutic results.

Instead it brought me more of the same.

Robert Downey, Jr., Sarah Jessica Parker, Shania Twain. Obviously, even Google didn’t understand what I was going for. I expressed my frustration to my husband. He suggested that I instead Google, “People who would be 50 but are dead.” I guess perhaps he had a point.

Turning 50 was definitely better than the alternative. BTW, my search on that particular topic did not turn up any results, but I did discover that also turning 50 this year are professional wrestler The Undertaker, rap artist Dr. Dre, and perpetual teenager Luke Perry of 90210 fame. I had to chuckle at that one, because it put him at about 25 the last time he was in high school.

In conclusion, the results of my extensive research did not better prepare me for this milestone. Sure, I can’t help but feel that I should have accomplished a bit more at this stage of my life. And there is certainly the new standard that all these beautiful 50 year old supermodels have set – something that I will eventually deal with. Right now, I have just been avoiding shopping for jeans and swimsuits. But realistically, I haven’t done so bad.

I have three beautiful children and a home that embodies everything I was hoping for when I created it. My husband still laughs at my jokes and my idiosyncrasies and reminds me to laugh at myself. I am one of the lucky few who is working at the job I always wanted when I planned for my future all those years ago. My health is good and most of my teeth are intact. In fact, one could even argue that I don’t act my age. After checking out the competition, I’ve decided that I don’t even mind looking my age, given the competition. If this is what the new fifty looks like, sign me up!

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.

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

OUTDOORS

Urban Farm Girl

The Village

By Joanne M.W. Love As I was passing by our front porch windows, I shot the typical, quick glance towards the pasture. At first look, I thought I saw the whole crew grazing together in typical fashion.

But with the double take I quickly made, my eyes came to focus on an unusual scene; at least I think it was unusual. I zoomed in on two animals in particular, the cow and the colt.

Our Jersey Cow, Violet, has been with us 8 years now (that’s 7 years too long by my husband’s calculations) and has raised 3 calves. Our colt, Gus, is the newest member of the Arc and is approaching 4 months old. As I watched the two of them for five minutes, all I could think of was, “It really does take a village, doesn’t it?!”

They were nose to nose briefly, while Violet fervently licked Gus, engulfing half his head with her well-meaning yet menacing, cow-tongue. I glanced at Gus’ mom, grazing 50 feet away; she didn’t seem to care. Gazing back at cow and colt, Gus suddenly tired of the incessant “licks of love” and tried to climb on Violet. In response, Violet swung her head low and playfully jumped from side to side (in slow (cow) motion). It was obvious she was playing with him.

Again, I look at Mom, now 100 feet away, who continues to appear more interested in pasture grass than the company her little boy is keeping.

I had no idea that ALL the animals in the pasture have been helping to raise this little colt.

I couldn’t help but feel like I should be tearing a sheet out of this Mom’s playbook. It really has taken a village to raise our oldest son. Is it time to sit back and let the new village take over as we drop him off at college for the first time?

I’m seriously not sure I’ll go gently with that.

We’ve been blessed over the years with an incredibly supportive village, consisting of family, extended family, friends, coaches, teachers, etc.

Our son has had a more challenging journey than most others I’ve witnessed, and I’m not sure how we’d have survived without this support. Over the years, all of them have contributed their own flavor of help and advice like a melting pot of child-raising soup, having a profound influence on the young man he’s become.

Flash forward one week and now I’m staring down the barrel of a clock, ticking towards the hour where parents hug their children goodbye, leaving them in their dorm. I knew when this day came; for me, it would feel similar to a funeral. It’s a day you

V<>L:”“RX

know you have to start, but desperately don’t want to. The only reason you do start is because your feet betray you; they just keep moving you forward … traitors.

Battling emotional overload, I take in the surroundings of his new village … roommates, floor advisors, professors, and academic counselors. As my husband peels me off our son and we walk out to our truck, my feet feel like 50 pound weights. How will this new village know how to help? They don’t even know him. If I could just pass out a flyer with bullet points on how to best support him, I’d feel SO, SO much better. At the mere mention of that, I’m guessing my husband would stop me, kamikaze-style, as if I was about to launch a grenade.

It was probably a good thing that we had a 500-mile drive home to tackle. Through tears and talking I was able to step back and see the growth in our son that had already begun.

Where all I could see was sheer panic on his face as it came time to leave, my husband saw bravery and incredible determination. With carefully chosen words via texts and phone calls, we talked him through the first, precarious hours, as the miles between us steadily increased.

Thank goodness he couldn’t see my swollen, red eyes as my husband kept coaching me through our party line … ”Something good will come out of this no matter what happens, and you will be a stronger person for the journey.” I know in theory that with the words, eventually will come the feelings, for both our son and myself.

In other words, we both have to fake it to make it right now. In the meantime, however, I’ve made it my mission to enlist a phone tree, prayer chain, and massive letters/emails from the village that has stayed behind, to help cushion the immediate transition. And at the very least, I’m searching for the emoji (texting image) of a cow licking a colt to text to him so he knows his village is still with him in spirit ... although I’m having a hard time finding that one.

© Urban Farm Girl: Raising Critters & Kids, Awarded Idaho Press Club’s Excellence in Journalism for best Weekly General Column.

STAR BLOOD DRIVE

Give Blood - It Saves Lives

October 2015 • PAGE 23

Monday, October 26 3-6:30 p.m.

In the Star Library parking lot.

Please call Rita to schedule your time 208-286-7153

m o d n Ra hts g Thou

By Gretchen Anderson

recent, slick advertising campaign that suggests replacing your mattress every eight years.

What?

Mr. Man and I kept our first mattress a whopping 20 years before replacing it with a way-too-expensive-but-worth-it, memory foam bed. The sales rep told us, “It would be the last mattress we’d have to buy.” Really?

Does he not want to sell us another new, overpriced mattress in eight years? Just like the signs read in the window of the Mattress Firm store ... I mean stores?

Consumer Reports actually recommends keeping your bed until it isn’t comfortable anymore. Thoughtful mattress owners will regularly rotate and flip their conventional mattresses and never allow their spawn to use it as a trampoline…(who me?).

I was curious about what my friends thought about this strange juxtaposition of mattress merchants. I asked if anyone really knew why Mattress Firm would erect two new stores directly across from each other?

My social media blew up.

Most of the responders were as confused about the subject as I. Some reported Mattress Firm has done the same thing in other parts of the Treasure Valley, commenting that the national company is trying to “corner the market” and push out the local guys. Others lightheartedly speculated it is a money-laundering front for some nefarious shenanigans. Mattress Mafia even… All in all, the majority of the commenters found it highly suspect. Hmm… Well, if it’s a good thing to have “extras” in life, I guess the same could be said about mattress mysteries. However, the one thing that isn’t a mystery is … there doesn’t seem to be a day that goes by that a mattress is never NOT “on sale.”

In life, it’s always a good thing to have extras. I would never scoff at extra pocket tissues, an extra bottle of bug spray or even an extra mini bottle, tucked inside my BSU stadium parka.

But, when did the universe decide we need extra mattress stores? I am referring specifically to the Mattress Firm stores that are situated RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET from one another. One has a State Street address.

The other, a Glenwood Street address—both in Garden City. You can literally stand in one store and wave to the sales people in the other store.

What’s going on?

The only other place I’ve seen this is in New York City.

I’ve marveled at Starbucks and McDonalds on every block. People in that city draw the line at crossing the street for their Frappuccino or Big Mac. Has Mattress Firm gone the way of Walgreens? Not one, but TWO stores on the corner of Happy and Healthy? I understand the marketing behind Walgreen’s “neighborhood niche.” We need drug stores. They see a lot of foot traffic. But short of some type of 21st Century Goldilocks, where’s the demand?

Who is going into the mattress stores? I can’t envision a lot of people making weekly, monthly or even yearly trips into them, as they would a drug store. This, despite the ©October 2015 Gretchen Anderson. Gretchen Anderson is an award-winning writer and author of “The Backyard Chicken Fight.” It is available on Amazon.

Contact Gretchen at gretchen.anderson@me.com.

ROOF DAMAGE

PAGE 24 • October 2015

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

from WIND or HAIL ?

CALL US FOR A FREE INSPECTION

Your homeowners Insurance may cover wind damage. We are still inspecting roofs for hail damage, but see many with wind damage, especially to the older 3-tab type roofing.

Star, Meridian and all surrounding areas were affected by wind damage.

Tired of waiting for your roofer?

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

LOCAL CONTRACTOR CHOOSE A

921-1445

A local company with 25+ years of experience.

Call us for a free inspection.

CF Construction provides a 10 year workmanship warranty.

Roofing materials we use have a 30 year (or more)manufacturer’s warranty.

Established in 2003, we live and work in Eagle.

We serve our community and we serve our customers.

CF Construction will be there during the entire process

Obtain a FREE inspection now on Residential or Commercial roofs • Damage is typically not visible without a close inspection.

• There is a time limit to file a claim with your insurer.

CF Construction takes all the hassle out of the claim process With our years of local experience: • • • •

We meet with the insurance adjustor at your home.

We show adjustor all areas of damage; roof, gutters, garage door, etc.

We are your Advocate through the entire process.

We can help explain all the paperwork.

BEWARE

Companies from out of state that “chase storms” and temporarily set up offices are working the area.

If they leave when the work is done, how will they provide you with warranty work? Any company with a registration # of 36000 or higher registered with the state after the storm and is not a long established company. There are local contractors that have a Reg. # higher than 36000. PLEASE BUY IDAHO! Please check every contractors registration # and look up thier history on the state website - even local contractors. You want to know how long every contractor has been in business.

Go to ROOFINGEAGLE.COM and click on the state links. Please check all registration numbers of the subs too.

THERE ARE MANY GREAT IDAHO CONTRACTORS - USE US!

WWW.ROOFINGEAGLE.COM