The Independent News November 2015 issue

Look inside for the Eagle and Star Candidate Election Guides Volume 6 • Issue 11

NOVEMBER 2015

Local residents get ready to go to the polls.

Cooperation, Economic Development Common Theme During Eagle Candidate Forums

By Philip A. Janquart EAGLE – The Eagle Chamber of Commerce hosted a forum Oct. 13 at the Church of the Nazarene where candidates running for mayor and city council were given the opportunity to express their views on a variety topics.

They were given a second opportunity at a forum held at Chateau des Fleurs on the Camille Beckman campus in Eagle on Oct. 19.

At both forums, candidates were asked about their priorities if elected, about economic growth and their vision for the city’s future.

Some central themes surfaced during both events, starting with greater cooperation and respect between council members, the mayor and citizens, especially those who attend council meetings “to be heard.”

Council candidate Stan Bastian said there is a need for a “united council” that takes a “team approach” to running the city, a belief expressed by most candidates, including Craig Soelberg who said he wants to help “re-establish trust in a city council that conducts itself in a professional way.”

All candidates expressed the need for economic growth, which they say includes attracting commercial development that would help build a sustainable economic foundation for the city. Several candidates pointed out that approximately 90 percent of the city’s current revenue stream comes from residential development.

Mayoral candidate Stan Ridgeway said there is a need for more businesses that support the community’s service needs, pointing out that “there is only one (automotive) garage” in Eagle, and that the city needs to nurture a more cooperative relationship with the chamber of commerce in a combined effort to “encourage jobs here that offer a livable wage.”

Incumbent Jim Reynolds said the city must actively “seek out” and bring in companies that

could build in areas that are fit for commercial development, including near Highways 16 and 55.

Council candidate Shane Curry said the city could benefit from an industrial complex.

Council candidate and business owner Naomi Preston said that re-establishing a business development committee could help the city make doing business in Eagle easier.

Some candidates said growth must be managed “wisely” and that the city’s comprehensive plan – the city has been working on a revised comprehensive plan – is an important step in that process.

Others said the city’s approval processes must be simplified and streamlined to make them more developer friendly.

Most candidates, however, said that while attracting commercial development is key to Eagle’s fiscal future, supporting current businesses, including small businesses, is a top priority, as well as retaining the quality of life and aesthetics that attracts most people to the area.

Bastian said the city, and its residents, can’t be afraid of growth, but that it must be done the right way.

Council candidate Jeff Laughlin said that “balance is the key.”

Reynolds said the city needs to “embrace growth, but in a way the community wants.”

Ridgeway agreed, saying that while the city “need[s] growth,” its most appealing characteristics, such as parks and open spaces, should be retained.

"I was very pleased with the turnout this evening. It's wonderful to see so many folks engaged in the civic process," said Camille Beckman event organizer Mary May. Elections in Eagle are Tuesday, Nov. 3. Log on to www.cityofeagle.com for more information.

l-r: Craig Soelberg, Kevin Keep, Mike Olsen, Jim Reynolds, Stan Ridgeway, Naomi Preston, Rick Murphree, Stan Bastian

Over 140 people attended the Oct. 19 Forum Photos by Matthew May

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

ECRWSS

POSTAL PATRON LOCAL

Meet Coach Doug Corta pg. 3

www.theindnews.com

Visions for Growth Surface at TIN’s Star Candidate Forum

By Philip A. Janquart About 150 residents gathered at Star Elementary to hear candidates answer questions about the future of Star at a preelection forum hosted by The Independent News on Thursday, Oct. 22.

Some recurring topics that were explored during the roughly two-hour event included growth, commercial development and revitalization.

“When it comes to development, we must make sure that we find a fair and good balance between residential development and bringing in the proper commercial applications, to ensure fair, proper and steady growth,” said council candidate David Hershey when asked about his thoughts on land use decisions.

Randy Furniss said that although the current council and mayor have “paid a lot of attention to planning in the proper manner,” there must be a continued diligence.

“I think we are at a crossroads here in Star and I think that if we aren’t watching and following the plan, we could be overcome, and I don’t think that Star wants to be just another bedroom community,” he said.

Some of the candidates made loose reference to the recent issue surrounding a proposed low-income housing development planned for property directly adjacent to Pinewood Lakes subdivision, and the heated public backlash and subsequent demand that city ordinances be changed to prevent the project from moving forward.

Part of the answer in avoiding issues like the low-income housing project, some candidates said, is to make a habit of revisiting the city’s comprehensive plan.

“It’s always a balancing act between private property rights and community rights,” said Doug Gochnour. “The plan we have is about seven and a half years old, so it’s time to take a look at it, make sure it still says

what we want it to, and then create a cycle of reviewing it about every two years so we can avoid the kind of [situation] that happened with this issue down the street.”

Kevin Nielsen agreed.

“One of the issues we have going in our community is a symptom of not keeping that plan as fresh as it could be.”

Another topic included commercial development, which the candidates said hinges on many factors such as reasonable regulatory procedures, keeping the city safe and putting a greater effort into revitalizing the downtown core.

“We need to think about maybe creating a city plaza, replacing some of the landscape, some of the lights and make it look like somebody actually lives here,” said Robert Wurster.

About 80 percent of the city’s revenue is based on residential properties, candidates agreeing that a better balance needs to be reached through commercial development.

Mayor Mitchell stressed, in part, the importance of attracting more service-oriented businesses to serve the community’s needs.

“It’s going to be a combination of a regulatory atmosphere that presents a path of least resistance and taking an active recruiting role to bring in business that serves our city’s specific needs,” he said.

Bell agreed, adding that the city must continue to work with state and local agencies in developing downtown infrastructure.

“We typically work with ACHD (Ada County Highway District) and ITD (Idaho Transportation Department) and sometimes those hurdles are hard to overcome … because we have a highway going right through our city,” he said. “It’s extremely crucial for us to continue to work very hard with those entities to help them understand how crucial it is for our town to grow businesswise.”

Elections in Star are Nov. 3, 2015.

Candidates answer questions at TIN’s Star Candidate Forum

Eagle Drilling Concerns Continue pg. 5

Lowincome housing in Star pg. 9

PAGE 2 • November 2015

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Children Discover the Wonders of Nature at Scavenger Hunt

Families enjoyed the adventure of discovery at the free “Children’s Nature Scavenger Hunt held on October 3 at Merrill Park in Eagle. Over 100 children, parents, grandparents and friends were in attendance. The community event was sponsored by Active Zone Kids Preschool and the Idaho Hiking Club.

The children had fun searching throughout the park or along the greenbelt for nature items on their choice of two different scavenger lists. Once they found 10 items on their list, each child received a small prize. “They all did an amazing job finding the items.

Some even found the elusive ant that was on the list”, said Lisa Wiseman, owner of Active Zone Kids Preschool in Eagle.

Afterwards, Lisa helped the children and their families create fun craft projects with the leaves they found during their hunt.

Craft tables were set up with the necessary materials to help them assemble their choice of a leaf wreath, a leaf creature or leaf crayon rubbings.

Lucy of Eagle said, “I took my two grandsons to this. We had so much fun together.

What a nice park.”

Lindsay of Boise brought her 22-month-old son and had this to say: “We really enjoyed participating in the nature scavenger hunt.

It was a beautiful fall morning and our son had a great time searching for nature items throughout the park … my son could look at the pictures and try to find trees, bugs, leaves, etc.”

If you missed this year’s event, you will have another chance in the spring. Lisa has announced that, based upon the overwhelming response to this event, they will be repeating it again in the spring. In addition, they will be hosting a free children’s winter carnival for the community after the holidays.

To be kept informed of future events, including family hikes, and to get fun activity ideas to share with your child, visit Active Zone Kids Preschool on Facebook at www. facebook.com/ActiveZoneKids. For information about the hosts of this event, visit www.ActiveZoneKids.com and www.Idaho HikingClub.com.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

COMMUNIT Y

A Coach’s Dedication

Doug Corta started coaching softball with West Valley Little League when his oldest daughter was 6 years old. In the spring of 2005 he, along with Dan Mitchell, started the ASA Idaho Sliders Organization. On that first 12u team were Doug's daughters, 8 year old Bentli and 10 year old Z (Mackenzi). The Sliders expanded to 12u, 14u and 16u teams and have influenced hundreds of young girls over the last 10 years.

Doug saw another opportunity when the freshman softball team at Eagle High School was looking for a coach. In the Spring of 2008, he coached his first High School team.

In the spring of 2009, Doug took over as the Head Varsity Coach for Eagle High. Under Doug's leadership, Eagle has won the 5A District Title 3 times with a 2nd place finish at the Idaho State tournament in 2013.

Doug achieved one of his personal goals this last spring winning the 5A Idaho High School Softball State Championship. The 2015 team finished the season ranked #10 in the nation by Max Preps. Doug was named Coach of the Year by the Idaho State Coaches Association and the Third District Coaches Association.

In early March 2014, the Corta’s lives were turned upside down when Doug was diagnosed with a malignant (cancerous) glioblastoma brain tumor. Since the initial diagnosis, Doug has undergone 2 brain surgeries and numerous chemo and radiation treatments in addition to participating in the Nativis study in Seattle Washington.

During all this treatment, Doug continued to coach his high school team, running practices a few hours after a chemo treatment.

Immediately after the State Championship game in Coeur D’Alene ID, his team returned to Eagle, while Doug and his wife Jacki went to Seattle for a routine MRIs. During this visit they learned new tumor spots had shown up. Radiation was done on the new spots. The September MRI showed the

m o d n Ra hts g Thou

By Gretchen Anderson

"If it's too good to be true, walk away from it."

"Go half the distance, with twice as much money."

"Nothing good happens after midnight."

These are little nuggets of sage advice that our mother repeated to my siblings and me, on a regular basis. Growing up, we were in awe of our headstrong, independent, single mom. Our folks divorced when we were young and mom did her best to rear confident, hard-working, kind kids. In our eyes, she was all that and more. She was our rock.

So, you can imagine our surprise when we learned from her banker (and personal friend) that our sweet, 85-year-old mom was caught up in several lottery scams.

In the biggest scam, she allowed herself to be taken in by two shysters named, “Roger” and “Anna.” They had thick accents, they were relentless, and when the caller I.D. didn’t read “blocked caller” it identified the number as originating in Jamaica.

Roger and Anna were good. They would stay on the phone with my mom for hours— grooming her. They told her she had won the lottery. But, before the money could be disbursed, mom had to pay the taxes and legal fees. She paid. And, she paid. And, she paid.

She lost all her money.

Doug Corta

Photos courtesy of Mike Olsen Photography

My siblings and I are still in shock. How could this happen? What happened to our smart, independent mom? We thought mom knew better. She came very close to losing thousands of dollars in 2009, when someone called claiming to be a grandson, needing bail money to get out of jail, in Canada.

Here’s what we think happened: Mom entered the Publishers Clearing House sweepstakes. She thought by making some purchases, her chances of winning would increase (though PCH clearly states the contrary). She sent them money. Then some fake lottery announcements came in her mail. When she saw they were offering big money, and all she had to do was send in a processing fee, she did it. Now, her contact information was out there and being sold to other “lottery” organizations. Her name, address and phone number may have also been sold to the Jamaican operation.

It was a perfect storm. Mom still lived by herself, in her own home and had some time on her hands. She said she “just wanted to leave her kids a ‘little something’.” She was the textbook target.

Fortunately, all four kids rallied, got her some help and now she is living in beautiful Idaho and isn’t home alone.

In the latest issue of Consumer Reports, the cover story is all about this growing problem. The “Rogers” and “Annas” out there are swindling senior citizens out of an estimated $3 billion a year. CBS news has done several in-depth stories on the Jamaican Lottery scam.

So, why write about this unfortunate situation? I hope it’s a cautionary tale. Check in with your mom and dad or any older friend or relative. Ask them if they know about these lottery scams. Because, the minute you think it couldn’t happen to them—it does.

©November 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.

tumor had spread to the entire right lobe of his brain. Doug's doctors discontinued treatment due to the growth.

Despite the weakness of his left side and increasing severity of headaches, Doug is still out pitching softballs to players and supporting Mustang football from a chair on the sidelines.

For years it has been a dream of Doug’s to build an indoor softball facility at the Eagle High School Softball fields. The facility would enable players to work on their skills year-round by providing multiple batting cages, pitching lanes and a small section for fielding. It has been his dream to provide young female athletes a place they can work out and strive to be the best they can be. A facility for female athletes to call their own.

In years past, the Eagle High School softball players going on to to play at the collegiate level were about 2-3% per graduating class. However, due to Doug's encouragement and dedication, the graduating classes of 2016/2017 will likely have 100% of their graduating seniors going to college. Of those graduating, approximately 98% will be going on to play collegiate softball.

This facility we are trying to fund will be known as The Doug Corta Softball Complex, which will be a piece of his legacy left for future female athletes to experience what he has built. Please help build on our incredible coach’s dream by donating and being a part of the legacy.

If you would prefer to mail your donation to save processing fees please mark the memo portion of the check "Corta Softball Complex" and send them to Eagle High Softball Booster Association, Attn: Corta Softball Complex, PO Box 2122, Eagle, Idaho 83616.

Nicole Rollins, Assistant Softball Coach Eagle High School, 208-863-5751.

November 2015 • PAGE 3

PAGE 4 • November 2015

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

CULTURAL EXCHANGE

JOSÉ GUADALUPE POSADAS, Artist of the Day of the Dead

For each new morning with its light, For rest and shelter of the night,

For health and food, for love and friends, For everything Thy goodness sends. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

By Ana Maria Cuneo living and protest Did you ever wonder about the meaning of government abuses the Mexican skulls and dressed skeletons seen in a subtle way. during the November celebrations for the Day Sometimes, the ilof the Dead? This tradition began in 1846, lustrations portrayed during the war between Mexico and the recognizable political United States. It was then that a new style of figures and other times they featured comsatirical articles and illustrations related to the mon people. The most popular of Posadas’ events began to appear in Mexican newspaprints is that of La Calavera Catrina (the fashpers. ionable lady’s skull). The image made fun of When the war ended and stability returned, lower-class women who tried to emulate high a wealthy Mexican middle-class emerged, but society ladies. the poor continued to suffer. Popular disconThe onset of the Mexican Revolution tent again found a forum in the form of satiri- lowered the average lifespan for Mexican men cal illustrations and the Penny Press became to 34-years, making death an ever-present fact. an important vehicle for social and political Posadas’ prints became popular again, but protest. Among the illustrators, was a printer the artist never gained in life the recognition named José Guadalupe Posadas. he deserved. It wasn’t until a revival of its Although other artists indigenous roots took had used skeletons before place in Mexico, in the in their illustrations, decade of the 1920s, Posadas’ engraving capthat Posadas became tured the essence of Mexan inspiration for other ico and became very artists - like Diego popular. One reason for Rivera and José his success was the perClemente Orozco. sonality of his skeletons, Today, Posadas’ work which he drew wearing seis celebrated around rapes and big sombreros. the world.

Using death, he was able La Calavera Catrina to mock the antics of the

Ana María Cuneo is a bilingual writer and an avid promoter of the Hispanic culture.

Her articles, mostly focused on Hispanic culture, have appeared in several newspapers and literary magazines in three different states. She, her husband Richard, and their dog, Amelia Earhart, live in Eagle, ID.

Fall: A Perfect Time for Wine

The cooler days and heartier meals of Autumn call for richer, fuller bodied wines that make sipping a celebration and a weeknight meal a culinary event. Secrets to finding great wines for Fall... Keep it easy and uncomplicated by following a few simple guidelines: Try BEFORE you buy.

Very important...Sampling and tasting allow you to experience flavors, body, and bouquet (scent) of the wine making certain your selection is everything you want and expect it to be.

Drink it the way YOU like it.

If you like a chill on your red wine...drink it that way.

If you like your white wine over ice...go for it.

Drink it however YOU will enjoy it most.

Make food & wine pairing easy: Drink what you like with the food you like to eat.

Struggling through a glass of dry, red wine with your steak because you’ve been told “red goes with beef” is not what the wine experience is about. It’s about YOU enjoying and enhancing your food and wine experience. So if you love chardonnay and it tastes good to YOU with your steak then drink it that way.

Autumn is a great time to try a couple varietals that may surprise and delight you: Viognier: (Vee-o-nay) A white grape varietal originally from the Rhone Valley region of Southeast France. A good Viognier is crisp and refreshing with a creamy texture that tastes and smells of flowers and honey. Described as “easy” drinking and smooth, pairs well with seafood, poultry and curry dishes.

Petite Sirah: A red (black skinned) grape varietal originated in France. Dark, intense color with flavors of blackberry, chocolate and black pepper. Described as dry and flavorful, pairs very well with sautéed mushrooms, grilled beef & pork, tangy bar-b-que sauces.

Note: it is common for Petite Sirah wines to be unfiltered with some sediment in the bottle and on the cork.

Remember...wine is a beverage to delight the senses, share with friends, and bring enjoyment to YOU. Learn about wines, wine tasting, pairings and events by contacting Helen Collinson at Helina Marie’s Wine Bar & Wine Shop located at 11053 W State Street in Star. Website: www.starwinebar.webs.com

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

EAGLE NEWS

DRILLING CONCERNS CONTINUE:

Alta Mesa, Snake River execs deny residents' claims they admitted their intention to frack

By Philip A. Janquart The Eagle City Council held a special “factfinding” meeting Tuesday, Oct. 20 to gather information about oil and gas drilling in Eagle and northwest Ada County.

The public was invited to comment on presentations made by Citizens Allied for Integrity and Accountability and the Idaho Petroleum Council.

Eagle resident Shelley Brock and Payette County resident Alma Hasse spoke on behalf of Citizens Allied, detailing the affects of drilling on communities and the numerous legislative “emergency” bills that have been passed in recent years that seem to support the oil and gas industry in Idaho.

Paul Powell, president of Boise-based Petroglyph Energy, Inc. spoke on behalf of the Idaho Petroleum Council, providing an overview of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, and drilling practices in Idaho and across the country.

A representative for the Idaho Department of Lands was also scheduled to speak. The agency, however, allegedly notified the city on Monday, Oct. 19 that its representative would not be able to attend.

“I’m here to find out more about what is happening because this involves Ada County,” county commissioner David Case told The Independent.

Also in attendance was Richard Brown, co-owner of Weiser-Brown Oil Co. and president of Snake River Oil and Gas LLC, and Alta Mesa Holdings, Inc. vice president John Peiserich.

Residents made comments about presentations during the Oct. 20 special meeting.

The issue Rumblings about drilling in Eagle have been quietly building over the last few months as news of drilling issues in Payette and Gem Counties has filtered over into Eagle where Alta Mesa, at last count, has signed at least 13 “split estate” land leases with the state.

The Texas-based company has approximately 17 wells – 15 of them purportedly active - in Payette County where Citizens Allied says some residents have become victims of forced-pooling.

The industry calls it “integration.”

Although forced pooling does not seem to be an immediate concern in Eagle, residents are nonetheless concerned about split-estate leases that give Alta Mesa the right to drill for subsurface resources on private land.

A law passed in 1923 severs surface rights from mineral rights, allowing the state to retain mineral rights on land it sells.

Large sections of land in Eagle were once owned by the state and sold to various developers. The minerals underneath those developments, some of them residential subdivisions, still belong to the state, which has leased some of its rights to Alta Mesa.

But that’s not all.

Fracking Citizens Allied says, and many residents fear, that Alta Mesa and other gas and oil companies will eventually use the controversial system of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, to extract gas or oil from the ground.

Fracking involves creating fractures in shale rock and then pumping water, sand and various chemicals at extremely high pressure through horizontal casings and into the fractures, forcing gas and oil to the surface.

Opponents of the practice allege substantial adverse environmental impacts that cause humans myriad of physical injuries, neurological disorders and disease.

Brock gave a Powerpoint presentation outlining the issues facing the city and its residents as the oil and gas industry makes its way through Idaho.

Read the rest of the story online at theindnews.com.

Council members, from left, Stan Ridgeway, Mark Butler, Mayor Jim Reynolds, Mary McFarland and Jeff Kunz listened to testimony about fracking in Eagle.

Idaho granted REAL ID extension through Oct. 10, 2016

BOISE - Idaho was granted a one-year REAL ID extension in a letter received yesterday from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). During the extension, federal agencies may accept Idaho-issued driver's licenses and identification cards for official purposes.

Idaho is one of numerous states and territories at various stages of compliance with REAL ID. “The Idaho Transportation Department is moving forward with security features to ensure our identification cards are as safe and secure as possible,” said ITD Chief Deputy Scott Stokes. “We have a great partnership with Gen. Richy and the Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security. They have provided valuable insight for us as we work to enhance the security of Idaho’s ID cards and licenses.”

Brad Richy, Director of the Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security said, “The outstanding collaboration between ITD, the Department of Homeland Security and Idaho’s Bureau of Homeland Security is critically important to ensuring that Idahoans face no disruptions

getting through airport security, or accessing military bases and most Federal facilities using their state-issued driver’s licenses.”

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 in order to provide additional safety and security for U.S. citizens. The Act modified law regarding security, authentication, and issuing standards for state driver’s licenses and identification cards, as well as various immigration issues pertaining to terrorism.

“The Department recognizes your efforts in enhancing the security of your jurisdiction's driver's licenses and identification cards and has granted this extension based on a review of the information,” the letter from DHS states.

For more information about REAL ID, please contact Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security’s Public Information Officer, Elizabeth Duncan, at (208) 258-6595. Questions? Visit us online at itd.idaho.gov, follow ITD on Twitter (@IdahoITD) or Facebook and check travel conditions at 511.idaho.gov or dial 5-1-1.

Please slow down in highway construction zones and pay attention. Safety for drivers and workers is our highest priority.

November 2015 • PAGE 5

PAGE 6 • November 2015

EAGLE NEWS

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.

Read additional stories and articles online at theindnews.com

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

A G L A N C E B AC K From One Farm to Another

By Alana Dunn, Museum Curator west of Eagle, and eventually purchased 320 Eagle Historical Museum acres of it. He planted 55 acres of it to prune Eagle’s first settlers claimed the land adjaorchards. cent to the Boise River because In 1930, Catlin sold 523 it was good agricultural ground. acres of his farm on Eagle IsWater was close and easily land to the State of Idaho for a available for both crops and farm to employ and feed state livestock. prisoners. The Board of Prison Truman C. Catlin came to Commissioners’ records noted this area in the summer of that “This farm is suitable for 1863, settling on what was then the raising of grain and vegetacalled Illinois Island. From his bles and will make an excellent homestead on what is now dairy farm.” known as Eagle Island, Catlin In 1937 the notes about the operated a cattle business and productivity of the Prison sometimes handled from a Farm mention that they sold thousand to three thousand $14,333.56 worth of produce. It Early pioneer, head. He drove them over land was stated that there were 200 Truman Coe Caitlin to places like Cheyenne, acres of land under cultivation.

Wyoming; ranges in Montana; In 1938 they produced 6,383 and sometimes to northern Nebushels of wheat, oats, barley, braska and other points east. and corn for the use of the liveHe operated his cattle and stock. But in 1943-44 most of ranch business for about fortythe potato crop was raised on five years, and added to his leased land due to flooding. homestead until he had about When the Prison Farm was Honor Farm, present day first developed the land consix hundred acres. His diversiPhotos courtesy fied farming operations insisted mostly of rocky and of Eagle Historical cluded a herd of Jersey and sandy ground. Attempts to Museum Holstein dairy cows. plow and cultivate the ground Oliver Francis (Frank) Short were not successful because of came to the Eagle area in 1874 with his so much gravel in the subsoil. By 1969 it was brother to stay with their maternal uncle, all developed and considered one of the best Truman C. Catlin, after his father was killed livestock ranches in the Boise area, complete

by Indians. with dairy, hog pens, slaughter house and Frank Short left Idaho for two years in cultivated land. It was capable of producing 1887-1889 and returned to Kansas, where all of the pork, beef, poultry, eggs, butter, he married Mrs. Catlin’s sister. When he milk and cream required at the Idaho State returned to Idaho he managed Catlin’s farm Penitentiary.

EAGLE SENIOR CENTER

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November 15, 2015

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Lunch-Noon/Music TBA Dinner at Dennys (AARP Discount)Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 3: Lunch- Noon/Senior Goldmine/ followed by Bingo and Pinochle Old Time Fiddlers Jam-6:30 p.m. Open to public Nov 4: Lunch at “Souper/Salad” - Contact Micky at 440-0266 Appointment Day/doctor appointments, bank, hair, etc. Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 5: Lunch-Noon followed by Bingo and Pinochle Nov 6: “Dial M for Murder”, Weiser Little Theater- Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 7: “Black and Blue” Hockey Game, Free tickets- Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 9: Lunch-Noon-Music (TBA) Dinner at Olive Garden- Contact Micky at 440-0266 Foot Clinic/Cost $25/starts at 9 a.m./Call 287-3066 to make appt Nov 10: Lunch- Noon- followed by Bingo and Pinochle Nov 11: Appointment Day/doctor appointments, bank, hair, etc. – Contact Micky at 440-0266 Foot Clinic/Cost $25/starts at 9 a.m./Call 287-3066 to make appt Nov 12: Lunch- Noon- followed by Bingo and Pinochle Nov 13: Lunch at Boise Senior Center- Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 16: Lunch-Noon-Music (TBA) Nov 17: Lunch- Noon- followed by Bingo and Pinochle Nov 18: Appointment Day/doctor appointments, bank, hair, etc. – Contact Micky at 440-0266 Dinner at Shari’s (free pie) – Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 20: “Golden Girls” Christmas Extravaganza- Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 23: Lunch- Noon- Music (TBA) Dinner at Red Lobster- Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 24: Lunch- Noon- followed by Bingo and Pinochle Nov 25: Appointment Day/doctor appointments, bank, hair, etc. – Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 26-27: Thanksgiving Weekend-Center Closed Nov 28: Idaho Aquarium/Lunch at Eddie’s Diner – Contact Micky at 440-0266 Nov 30: Lunch- Noon- Music (TBA)

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

Check out our new website:

www.theindnews.com

November 2015 • PAGE 7

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

EAGLE LIBRARY November Events The Library will be closed Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11 The Library will close at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 25.

The Library will be closed for Thanksgiving, Thursday and Friday, November 26 and 27.

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

Monday, November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Baby Readers: 10:30 a.m. (birth – 18 months) Stories, songs, and fingerplays for babies and their caregivers.

Monday, November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Knee Deep in LEGOS™: 4:00 p.m. (ages 6+) Weekly program for children ages 6 – 12 to use their creativity in building and designing with LEGOS. Tuesday, November 3, 10, 17, 24 Toddler Time: 10:30 a.m. (18 months – 3 years) Stories, songs, and crafts for toddlers and their caregivers.

Tuesday, November 10, 24 Alzheimer’s Support Group: 2:00 p.m. (adults) Co-sponsored with Alzheimer’s Association Greater Idaho Chapter, the Eagle Public Library offers support for individuals and families whose lives are touched by Alzheimer’s.

Wednesday, November 4, 18, 25 Music & Movement: 10:30 a.m. (birth – 5 years) Early literacy skills are built through rhythm and motion in this interactive program for young children and their caregivers.

Wednesday, November 4, 18, 25 Tales to Tails: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

(Age: Elementary School) Increase your reading ability and confidence by reading to man’s best friend from Helping Idaho Dogs. Registration is required; contact the Youth Services staff at 939-6814, ext. 113.

Wednesday, November 4, 18 Teen Advisory Board (TAB): 4:15 p.m. (teens 14 - 18) Earn volunteer hours, hang out with your friends, and help your Library!

Thursday, November 5, 12, 19 Preschool Story Time: 10:30 a.m.

(3 – 5 years) Stories, songs, and crafts with an emphasis on school-readiness skills.

Friday, November 6, 13, 20 Ready, Set, School! 10:30 a.m.

(3 – 5 years) Stories, songs, and crafts, with an emphasis on school-readiness skills.

Friday, November 6, 20 Nutty Knitters of Eagle Public Library: 10:00 a.m. (adults) Local knitters and crocheters provide infant, youth, and adult knit products for those in need.

Join them to knit for charity, or to make friends with people with common interests.

Or, if you want to learn to knit, stop by; you’ll receive a lot of free advice. If you don’t want to knit but would like to help, the Nutty Knitters will gladly accept donations of yarn, which may be left at the Library’s front desk.

For more information, visit the knitter’s website: nuttyknitters.weebly.com.

Tuesday, November 3 After School Fun, 4:15 p.m. (6 - 12) Learn to make treats for winter birds.

Tuesday, November 3 Board Games for Teens, 6:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Pick your favorite game and come play with board games in the back of the library.

Friday, November 6 Movie: The Last Unicorn, 4:15 p.m. (all ages) Begin your weekend with an afternoon of classic family movies and popcorn.

Saturday, November 7 Don’t Lick the Dog, 10:30 a.m. (2 - 6 years) Helping Idaho Dogs will present Humane Education. Stories, snack and a chance to meet a therapy dog.

Tuesday, November 10 After School Fun, 4:15 p.m. (6 - 12 years) Play BINGO & win!

Karaoke, 6:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Show off your amazing (or not so amazing) voice.

Bring your own Karaoke music or pick a song from our collection.

Thursday, November 12 Digital Photo Editing Basics-Picasa, 2:00 p.m.

Learn the basics of editing and sharing your digital photos using Google’s Picasa software.

Second Thursday Book Club, 6:30 p.m. (adult) November’s selection is The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman.

Copies are available in the Library.

Friday, November 13 Movie: The Pagemaster, 4:15 p.m. (all ages) Begin your weekend with an afternoon of classic family movies and popcorn.

Family Game Night, 6:30 p.m. (all ages) 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, November 14 Homemade Christmas Gifts, 2:00 p.m. (adults) Learn to make awesome gifts for your holiday season Monday, November 16 Chat with the Library Director, 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (all ages) Do you have ideas to improve library services or do you have questions about the library.

Stop by and chat with the Director.

Tuesday, November 17 After School Fun, 4:15 p.m. (6 - 12 years) Learn to make yummy Thanksgiving treats.

Small Business Workshop, 12:00 p.m. (adults) Presented by the Small Business Administration Employee Classification and Audit Prevention Popcorn and a Movie - Mockingjay 1, 5:30 p.m. (middle/high school) The final Hunger Games will be released on the 20th. Come eat popcorn and make sure you are ready to find out whose odds are in their favor.

Wednesday, November 18 Your 24/7 Library: E-Resources, 2:00 p.m. (all ages) Get answers to your questions about downloading e-books, e-magazines, e-audiobooks, streaming movies and music from your Eagle Public Library.

Wednesday, November 18 Eagle Writer’s Group, 6:00 p.m. (adult) Author Priscilla Stone presents a series of classes on writing through a balance of lecture, writing exercises, and feedback.

Family Story Time, 7:00 p.m. (all ages) Celebrate Family Read Week with classic children’s stories at this special evening program.

Craft and snack provided.

Thursday, November 19 Homeschool Program, 2:00 p.m. (6 - 12 years) Explore aspects of each program’s theme through stories, activities, and projects. November’s program : Pilgrims and Thanksgiving Friday, November 20 Movie: Mouse Hunt, 4:15 p.m. (all ages) Begin your weekend with an afternoon of classic family movies and popcorn.

Saturday, November 21 International Game Day at your Eagle Public Library, All Day (all ages) Celebrate International Game Day at the Library and play the Library’s newest games.

Monday, November 23 Kid’s Holiday Craft, 2:00 p.m., (6 - 12 years) Yarn Wrapped Christmas Tree.

Take some yarn, form, and buttons and sequins and you’re ready to create the most beautiful craft Christmas tree ever!

Tuesday, November 24 Thanksgiving Rolls and Homemade Butter, 1:00 p.m. (middle/high school) Butter doesn’t come from the cow in ¼ pound blocks. Learn how to make your own butter and then enjoy it on hot rolls.

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

www.eaglepubliclibrary.org

The more that you read, the more things you will know.

The more that you learn, the more places you'll go. ~ Dr. Seuss

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

ADULT PROGRAMS

AIKIDO / Ages 14+ Aikido is a defensive Japanese martial art that focuses on blending with and redirecting an opponent’s energy/attack rather than relying on strength or direct aggression. Because of the emphasis on circular movement and leverage, this makes Aikido a great option for adults, teens, kids, men, and women.

Idaho Martial Arts • 4 weeks • $40 11/4-12/2 W 7-8:15 p.m.

FIT & SAFE CIRCUIT TRAINING / Ages 18+ IMA Self Defense Circuit Training takes the interval/station fitness concept to the next level.

Influenced by the functional fitness and HIIT (high intensity interval training) approach, IMA Self Defense Circuit Training focuses on basic human movements for self-defense (push, pull, jump, run, kick, block, punch etc.) by employing a combination of traditional weightlifting/calisthenic drills.

Be prepared for a high intensity interval workout with self-defense moves that keep you safe.

Idaho Martial Arts • 4 weeks • $40 11/7-12/5 Sa 8-9 a.m.

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 Street 4 weeks • $36 11/3-11/24 Tu 10:30-11:15 a.m.

PRINCESS PJ PARTY / 3-6 yrs Does your child dream of princesses? Send them to the PJ party for a special night out, fit for a princess! We will enjoy a special princess pizza party, make princess jewelry, play princess games, and celebrate while parents enjoy a night out!

Eagle City Hall, 660 E. Civic Lane • $24 11/6 Fr 5:30-8:30 p.m.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

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.

Eagle Elementary of the Arts 475 N. Eagle Road 4 weeks • $40 11/12-12/10 Th 5-5:45 p.m. Age 4 11/12-12/10 Th 6-6:45 p.m. Ages 5-6 11/12-12/10 Th 6:50-7:50 p.m. Ages 7-8

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

NOVEMBER PROGRAMS

KIDS NIGHT OUT / 6-10 yrs Do your kids need a night out? Send them to us for a fun night for them and you! We will play games, make crafts, eat pizza, and watch a movie.

Eagle City Hall, 660 E. Civic Lane $32 (second child discount available) 11/14 Sa 5:30-9:30 p.m.

SOCCER / 2-8 yrs This program will teach your child the fundamentals of soccer. Using a progressive curriculum, campers will gain the technical skills and sports knowledge required for that next step into soccer. Curriculum is taught using games, skill-based drills and fun!

All participants receive a soccer ball to take home.

Merrill Park • 4 weeks • $40 11/10-12/8 Tu 5-5:45 p.m. Ages 2-3 11/10-12/8 Tu 6-5:45 p.m. Ages 3-5 11/10-12/8 Tu 6:50-7:50 p.m. Ages 5-8 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 11/3-12/3 Tu/Th 4:30-5:15 p.m. Ages 6-8 11/3-12/3 Tu/Th 5:15-6 p.m. 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 11/3-12/3 Tu/Th 4:30-5:15 p.m. Ages 6-8 11/3-12/3 Tu/Th 5:15-6 p.m. Ages 9-12 SCHOOL BREAK MINI CAMPS / Grades K-5 Looking for something for your children to do during school breaks? Send them to mini-camp!

Children in grades K-5 will enjoy a fun-filled day with crafts, games, field trips, and other activities.

Eagle Elementary of the Arts Cafeteria 475 N. Eagle Road • $32/day 11/23-11/24 M, Tu 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

SPORTS HOLIDAY MINI CAMP / 4-9 yrs Skyhawks multisport camp is designed to introduce athletes to a variety of different sports in one setting. For this program we combine basketball, soccer, and football into one fun-filled week. Athletes will learn the rules and essential skills of each sport, along with vital life lessons such as teamwork and respect.

TBA • 2 days • $75 11/23-11/24 M, Tu 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

To learn more about the

Eagle Chamber of Commerce: www.eaglechamber.com.

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

PAGE 8 • November 2015

EAGLE NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

The Briefing with Chief Calley

The City of Eagle continues to thrive in many ways. Over the past several weeks we have seen much activity. Fall sports are in full swing and the school grounds are bustling with action. The city landscape is full of autumn’s vibrant colors. At the Eagle Police Department, we added two new officers to our ranks. I’d like to introduce them to you. We are thrilled to have Amanda and Damir as part of our team!

If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice. ~Meister Eckhart

Officer Amanda Wentz Amanda Wentz joined the Eagle Police as a transfer from the Ada County Sheriff’s Patrol Division. Before transferring to patrol, she worked for four years as a deputy in the Ada County Jail. She dreamed of being a police officer as a child. Her mother promised her a real motorcycle someday as she patrolled her yard on a battery-powered motorcycle. Amanda played college softball and continues to play in Treasure Valley leagues.

Officer Damir Subasic Damir Subasic also comes to the Eagle Police from the ACSO Patrol Division. Prior to becoming a patrol deputy, he worked as a deputy for five years in the Ada County Jail. Damir was born in Yugoslavia (what is now Bosnia). His family immigrated to Boise, first travelling through Germany. During his first week in the United States, he was able to see police K-9 and SWAT demonstrations. These events had a strong influence on him and from there he joined the ACSO. Damir enjoys riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. His quiet hobbies include reading, history and movies.

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

We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. ~Thornton Wilder

The Eagle Parks and Recs Department hosted their first antique car show recently.

Some 73 amazing rides were on display with some of the most astonishing paint jobs and engines to be found. I was surprised at the number of beauties that were supercharged.

All of it was first class. Thanks to Mike Aho and his staff for the great show.

Dr. Helena Hanson and Lilinda Thompson of Stevens Henager College presented the City of Eagle with two scholarships for the 2016 school year. One fortunate recipient will receive a scholarship for $25,000 and the other for $15,000. They will be awarded by December 31, 2015. Interested parties should provide the City with a cover letter and reasoning why they should receive one of the scholarships. Send to City of Eagle Scholarships at 660 East Civic Lane, Eagle, Idaho 83616.

Bob Van Arnem of Eagle made a strong case opposing Republic Services changes in their policy regarding plastic bag pick-up.

Republic requested the change because of previous injury to their employees from broken glass inside the bags. Bob has planted many trees and puts out as many as 20 plastic bags filled with leaves from November until February. After much back and forth, Republic has agreed to once again pick up plastic bags along with the carts.

Fulcrum Experience, LLC conducted an all-day workshop on October 10 in which they brought together the 10 subgroups who comprise the Eagle Road and Old State Street Intersection Study. Two options were

eliminated: the “no build” and the “one-way couplet.” Still under consideration by the group are the Expanded Intersection, the Quadrant and the Roundabout. The group will consider spending up to $20,000 to get 3-D simulations developed to better understand the traffic flow with the three remaining options. By the time you read this, they will have conducted another half day discussion to hopefully reach a solution that Eagle citizens can support.

The Eagle Chamber of Commerce conducted their Candidate Forum October 13 at Eagle Nazarene Church to vet the two candidates running for mayor and the eight running for the two open Council seats.

Questions were posed as to what issues the candidates believe to be most important facing our City. I did not sense that any of the group had a long list of things they wanted to accomplish over the next four years. It is challenging to be original after seven other people have answered the same question.

On October 20, the City Council heard from the Department of Lands, the C.A.I.A. (a citizens group advocating for property rights), and the Petroleum Institute regarding oil and gas drilling in the Treasure Valley.

The major concern is fracking, a process where water is forced into the well to recover the oil. The fear is that fracking may affect water wells and create undesired seismic activity. No further information is available as of this writing on October 16.

This is an important election. Please remember to vote November 3.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

STAR NEWS

Nov. 2 Decision on Zoning Ordinance Will Affect Low-Income Housing in Star

By Philip A. Janquart The future of a low-income housing project in Star is in the hands of council members who will vote at a special Nov. 2 meeting whether to approve an amendment to the city’s zoning ordinance that would prohibit apartments in certain zoning districts.

Over 200 residents, some of them forced to listen from outside city hall, packed into an Oct. 6 city council meeting where the public was allowed to comment on the housing project, which is planned for property directly adjacent to the Pinewood Lakes subdivision, located approximately a quarter mile west of Highway 44 and Star Road.

Some in attendance appeared agitated as they hurled threats promising to “vote them all out” if Mayor Nate Mitchell and city councilmen Tom Erlebach, Chad Bell and Richard Lockett allowed the project to move forward.

Councilman Chad Bell said “We can do that” when asked if the council would consider changing the zoning ordinance language concerning “multi-family” dwellings in C-1 zoning districts.

Mitchell concurred, noting that the proposed change would need to be published in the city’s publication of record for 15 days, in this case The Idaho Statesman, before the council can vote on the amendment.

The council submitted the notice of the proposed change in time to hold the Nov. 2 special meeting where it will consider the change and make its vote, one way or another, just one day prior to city elections.

“The way it is proposed right now, the council has in front of it a text amendment to our zoning ordinance that would in effect make multi-family housing units not permitted in C-1 zoning districts,” Mitchell told The Independent. “It means no apartments, nothing bigger than a duplex.”

Councilmen Richard Lockett and Tom Erlebach look on as fellow councilman Chad Bell, who is running for mayor in the Nov. 3 election, comments on questions posed by the public at the Oct. 6 city council meeting.

Star Mayor Nate Mitchell addresses an unusually large crowd during an Oct. 6 council meeting where residents demanded the city amend a city ordinance to block the development of a low-income housing project planned for property west of Star, directly adjacent to Pinewood Lakes subdivision.

He stressed, however, that the amendment would not only affect land near Pinewood Lakes, but all property zoned C-1.

“The problem is, I can’t just say no to one guy and yes to someone else,” Mitchell said.

“The changes have to apply to everyone in that zoning district. The codes are designed to prevent you from doing favors for your friends and not your enemies.”

Opponents of the project say a low-income development would damage existing homeowners.

“In my opinion, there is certainly going to be an adverse impact on property values,” said Pinewood Lakes resident Michael Keys, referring to Pinewood Lakes if the housing project is built. “As a general rule of development, when you build next to a property that already exists, the development should be within the same level as the property that already exists. I think a variance of one level, up or down is acceptable, but when it is about four levels difference - and I think that’s what they are proposing - it is not a good project, it’s not a good fit.”

He added: “If we were talking about something that was multi-family, but resident-owned, and appointed at the same level from what we have in our neighborhood, we wouldn’t be having this discussion, you wouldn’t see the level of passion you are seeing.”

Keys said he is “very happy” with Mayor Mitchell and the council’s reaction to the public’s demand that the zoning ordinance be amended.

The developers of the low-income housing project were not immediately available for comment.

Log on to http://www.theindnews.com/starzoning-ordinance/ to see the proposed code changes.

Randy Williams, Owner of Star Tree & Shrub

By Mickie Park Randy Williams has worked in the tree and shrub business for over 40 years. His experience began with the Grass Roots Tree Preservance years ago and since then he has worked for the Forest Service and City of Boise Forestry. He has worked in the Treasure Valley for over 30 years and currently focuses his work on the corridor between Eagle, Star and Middleton.

Star Tree & Shrub focuses on providing high quality tree maintenance. Often, a customer will wait until there are broken branches or until the tree is a hazard to request pruning services. Randy recommends routinely pruning young trees; this can prevent many costly problems in the future. It is most effective to have a young tree pruned every few years rather than wait until it is mature and needs extensive pruning. Structural issues can often be corrected early in a tree’s life to promote a stronger, safer and healthier tree.

With proper care, your trees can be a very valuable asset. They provide lower energy

Call Randy Williams with Star Tree & Shrub at 208-286-9683 for free estimates or evaluations

bills, increase your property value, and most importantly bring years of enjoyment to you and your family.

For free estimates on your tree and shrub maintenance, full trim removal, stump grinding, aerial bucket work or free evaluations, call Randy with Star Tree & Shrub today at 208-286-9683.

November 2015 • PAGE 9

PAGE 10 • November 2015

HONORING VETERANS The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

What’s Your Hobby?

Star Man Preserves World War II History in Private Museum

LOCAL HERO Sean William Ray Frakes

Sean William Ray Frakes, entered the life changing event of enlisting in the United States Air Force.

After graduating high school, and being sworn in on May 26th 2015 Sean left his home in Star, Idaho to face the challenge of basic training in San Antonio, TX. After 8 long hard weeks, Sean graduated to become an Airman. Sean has dedicated his life now to serving his country, a task he indeed takes very seriously, knowing it has all been possible through God. After three months of tech school, and another graduation, he will begin his service being stationed in the UK, where he will also spend time with his grandparents. Sean has made his entire family very proud. Well done Son, love and prayers from your family.

2015 Veterans Day Parade to be held in Downtown Boise on Saturday, November 7th

The annual Veterans Day Parade for the Treasure Valley will be held on Saturday, November 7th in downtown Boise. This year’s parade will once again be broadcast live by KTVB-TV Channel 7 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. The parade will begin at 10th and Jefferson Streets, proceed east to 4th Street, south to Bannock Street, and then turn west back to 10th Street.

The approximate duration of the parade is one hour.

There are three ways to support the parade: (1) View the parade as a spectator; (2) Volunteer to help with the parade, either on parade day or as part of the parade committee; and/or (3) Make a monetary donation to the parade. To learn more, visit www.boiseveteransdayparade or www.facebook.com/ BoiseVeteransDayParade.

And, new this year, you can select the

Veterans Days Parade as one of KTVB Channel 7’s Community Champions. To vote, visit www.ktvb.com/Champions, choose “Nonprofits” then “Veterans,” and vote for the Veterans Day Parade. Voting will run now through October 30th. Every vote counts!

The Boise Veterans Day Parade Committee plans, organizes, and conducts a Veterans Day Parade in Boise, Idaho, annually on the Saturday before November 11, in order to recognize sacrifices and honor the service of all Armed Forces veterans of the United States of America, and heighten community understanding and appreciation of the value of military service to the nation.

For additional information contact Matthew Parrott at media.relations@ boisevdp.org

The Independent News team thanks all veterans and active duty military for their brave service to our country.

We honor you today and every day.

By Philip A. Janquart Aside from the 35-foot fifth-wheel parked conspicuously out front, there is nothing particularly distinct about where he lives.

What is on the inside of Ron Gorremans’ house, however, is what matters.

“Some 20 years ago, a gentleman I knew, his grandmother found a rifle over in the World War II training grounds in eastern Oregon,” he explained. “It was a Garand. He asked if I would restore it because he couldn’t. I said ‘sure,’ and it took me about two and a half years to finish.”

The .30 caliber, semi-automatic M1-Garand was the first standard issue service rifle for U.S. infantrymen and was used during World War II and the Korean War. Today, the Garand fetches top dollar, collectors buying and selling them, on average, for as much as $3,000 a piece and higher, depending on year, condition and configuration.

Ron, who moved to Star from Oregon a couple years ago with wife Jadeen, collects military memorabilia. His collection, consisting mostly of items from the World War II era, started as a hobby, but has grown into an obsession that has led him all over the country in search of rare and hard-to-find pieces.

He has struck gold on several occasions and has generously donated over 500 pieces to various museums around the country. He has built a reputation over the years for his restoration work and is often contacted by fellow collectors and museums seeking his expertise in identifying or locating specific items.

Part of his collection once included 750 pounds of one-of-a-kind glass recordings detailing the launch of naval ships at the Kaiser shipyards in Portland, Ore. during World War II. “It was believed that they had all been destroyed, but some guy at the shipyards in the 1950’s brought them home and years later I ran into them,” explained Ron, a former U.S. Navy SeaBee. “They were packed in foam rubber, in wooden boxes that had never been opened. They described what ship was being launched, who was there, etc. I donated them to the shipyard museum in Oakland (Calif.).

I called them and they were here the very next day.”

Some uniforms worn by U.S. servicewomen in WWII

Uniforms worn by U.S. servicemen in WWI and WWII

Ron’s home has become something of an informal museum as a result of his work: lifeless mannequins now wearing colorful uniforms once worn by U.S. soldiers, nurses and other service men and women.

There are helmets, hats, knives, ammunition, a bell off a victory ship, purple hearts, swords, guns, shoes, pins, field equipment, flags and photo albums showing the smiling faces of lives, most of them, long since passed from this world.

Ron uses a garage meant for his fifth-wheel as a shop where he keeps boxes of memorabilia and repairs old guns and swords, some them authentic Samurai swords taken from Japanese officers as the U.S. marched through the Pacific islands during the war.

One of his big finds is a German officer’s prized World War I 1917 Luger 9mm pistol, which he acquired through an estate sale.

“I went to a bank and met with a probate lawyer where this pistol and all of his (escaped Nazi officer’s) medals were in a safety deposit box,” Ron said. “I wasn’t allowed to ask any questions. He was the second war criminal we have run into. The other was in Lincoln City (Ore.). We wanted to get his information once he passed away to get his name to the Jewish Foundation (for the Righteous, in New York) to get it off the research list, but the people that handled the estate wouldn’t allow it.”

The gun is desirable to collectors because of its pristine condition and the fact that all of the individual parts have matching part numbers.

“He (Nazi officer) was obviously proud of it,” Ron said. “All the serial numbers match, which means there have never been new parts put into it.”

A collection of “the other stuff,” as he calls it, sits on display in a room upstairs, the smell of old wool and material, the uniforms, and the black and white photographs wrapping visitors lucky enough to have a look in a time warp.

Ron’s wife, Jadeen, gets involved too, helping to restore uniforms and pair them with the pictures and stories of the people who actually owned them, including a Pearl Harbor survivor.

“Many of these uniforms and associated items have been displayed as static museums at festivals honoring our Veterans,” said Jadeen, whose father was in the Second Marine Div. and received a purple heart after he was wounded on Guadalcanal. “We’ve done this along with the display of the traveling Vietnam Veterans Wall.

“At two shows, he (Ron) arranged for military vehicles and tanks to attend the festivals with a parade of the vehicles through town.

We were very lucky to have the wife of the Pearl Harbor survivor at one show. She rode one of the tanks through town. At another show, we had another Pearl Harbor survivor attend with his friend who was a lounge singer during the war. She graced us with a couple of songs.”

“It makes you appreciate what they did,” Ron said. “It fascinates me and I think I’ll just keeping doing this for as long I have the energy.”

The Gorremans, who have won awards for floats they created for hometown parades, say they plan to participate in Star’s Fourth of July parade next summer.

A German officer's dress sword.

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

BUSINESS

Your Perfect Cat Sitter Awaits..

Serving Star, Eagle, Meridian & Garden City

Owners Ronni and Burt West have operated their exclusive cat sitting service for over 17 years. Just recently, a long overdue ribbon cutting ceremony was celebrated by The Star Chamber Of Commerce and was captured by The Independent News. Ronni West's HappyAt-Home Cat Sitting relocated to Star in 2013.

It is a local, family-owned business. Burt and Ronni will come to your home daily during the week, weekends and holidays. They specialize in providing cats with professional, personalized care in the comfort and security of their own home as an alternative to kennels or leaving cats in the care of family or friends.

Cats are much happier staying in a familiar environment. It is a much needed, invaluable asset to the relief of frequent travelers such as the retired RV owner seeking the great outdoors, the “all seasons” camping enthusiast, the professional who require business or social getaways and sometimes those with health issues who need help caring for their cats.

Ronni West’s Happy-At-Home Cat Sitting is the only business of its kind in the Treasure Valley area which exclusively has been sought by discriminating cat owners in Star, Eagle, Meridian and Garden City. They come highly

recommended by veterinarians, animal rescue groups and satisfied repeat clients. Ronni & Burt make it their goal to make it easier for cat owners to find top quality care. Scheduled daily visits provide cats the pampering that they are accustomed to enjoying. Ronni West’s Happy-At-Home Cat Sitting makes sure that your cat has fresh food and water, a cleaned litter box, plus, based on your cat’s specific needs, there’s always time for more TLC and spoiling with treats, catnip and playtime.

Burt & Ronni pioneered the creation of professional broadcast quality DVD videos to over 100 clients. All expressed their genuine joy in seeing their cats in a keepsake DVD movie. Video services are available and will be discounted for clients. Additional services are offered at no extra charge and include bringing in the mail, parcels and newspapers, rotating the lights, taking out/in trash bins and watering plants. Some of their many wonderful reviews can be read on their website at ronniwest.com which validate the motto of Ronni West’s Happy-At-Home Cat Sitting, “For Exceptional Care of Your CAT.” Your perfect cat sitter awaits.. serving Star, Eagle, Meridian & Garden City. Set-Up a “Meet-NGreet” today! Call 208-890-2006.

Star Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting event for Ronni West’s Happy-At-Home Cat Sitting in October

Eagle’s newest gated New Home community is now selling.

EAGLE, Idaho – IDAcal Properties LLC is pleased to announce the opening of their newest new home community, Renovare, in Eagle, Idaho. Renovare is located South of Highway 44 and East of S. Edgewood Lane along the Boise River.

Renovare celebrated the opening of Phase 1 with a formal ribbon cutting ceremony in their furnished model located at 1767 E. Lone Shore Lane on Wednesday, October 7.

This community is represented by the marketing team of Jamie Cilley, Nik Buich & Doug Milligan from Silverhawk Realty. They offer a combined experience of nearly three decades in the residential real estate sales and service industry with a focus on New Construction.

“We are looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead with this community, not only for our new homeowners but for what it offers to the Eagle community as a whole,” said Jamie Cilley. “With innovative design and a highly desirable location nestled along the Boise River, the quality of life this neighborhood offers its residents is really something special. There is nothing like it in the valley.”

Renovare is located on the North side of the Boise River with direct access to our city Greenbelt system which offers miles of walking and biking along the Boise River. This gated community will include a Community Center including a private pool, hot tub and fitness area, a neighborhood Bocce Ball court,

several stocked “catch & release” ponds and a waterfront gathering area with Firepit. The Association will also manage all private yard maintenance along with common areas within the neighborhood offering homeowners relaxed, carefree living.

The luxury homes within Renovare will be built by JD Johnston Construction. John Johnston has been a home builder for over three decades and is also a member of our local Building Contractors Association. His significant experience and expertise is the result of a lifetime of dedication, featuring an extensive array of new custom homes and remodeling projects.

The community and homes will be themed with "Mountain Modern" architecture offering a contemporary yet transitional style. Our 13 different models start in the mid $400s ranging from 1900-2700 square feet of living space and offer mostly single story living on luxury waterfront homesites. All of the home plans offered in Renovare are available for viewing at renovareidaho.com.

This gated community offers a unique opportunity for homeowners to enjoy nature at its fullest and with only 55 total homesites in Phases 1 & 2, the opportunity is limited.

With gorgeous streetscapes and a high attention to quality and detail our homes will provide residents in Eagle with innovative design, gated privacy and maintenancefree living.

A ribbon cutting was held on Oct 7 to celebrate the opening of Renovare.

Photo courtesy of Mike Olsen Photography

November 2015 • PAGE 11

PAGE 12 • November 2015

POLITICS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Eagle Candidate Election Guide 2015

MAYORAL CANDIDATES

James David Reynolds (Incumbent)

Mayor Reynolds was raised in the Virginia/ Maryland area and flew the RF-4C Reconnaissance Aircraft during the Vietnam War. He entered the MBA program at Stetson University following his nine-year military career.

He initially sold “Citations” for Cessna Aircraft, returning to Boise in the 1980’s after having “fallen in love” with Idaho during his time in Mountain Home during the 1960’s. He and a business partner took over the financially ailing Powder River Cattle Handling Company. Their success in turning the company around led to opportunities to resurrect other companies, the last one in Atlanta, Ga. Reynolds and his wife of 41 years returned to Idaho to retire. The couple has three daughters, a granddaughter and a grandson on the way.

Reynolds says he decided to run for office after a Census colleague mentioned the need for a new mayor in Eagle.

“Would my skill set work with a divided Council? More and more, I thought ‘yes,’” he said. “Those whose opinions I value, believe it has worked rather well. As we seek to guide our City through the difficult decisions ahead, I believe our goal must be a self-sustaining city. We should continue the economic development of the Heart of Eagle while maintaining the rural character. That will provide a vigorous City Center and a healthy balance of residential and commercial so taxes may be kept low. We should preserve the country charm of the foothills by keeping the density low. Let us endeavor to treat each other with dignity, to speak truth to them in love. It means making Eagle the best place in the valley to live, work and play.”

Stan Ridgeway

Ridgeway earned a bachelor’s degree from Auburn University in 1974 and a master's in Rehabilitation Administration from the University of San Francisco.

He served as Deputy Director for the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Program Coordinator for the Alaska Department of Health & Social Services and Labor. He retired in 2003 as the Deputy Director of the Alaska Division of Insurance.

He served two terms on the Juneau, Alaska Board of Education and one three-year term in the Juneau Assemble.

“Our city leaders need to base their decisions on long-term planning and rational thought rather than emotion,” he says. “City leaders should be more fiscally conservative when spending Eagle taxpayers’ dollars. I think Eagle has made some poor choices that seem to benefit special interests while Eagle taxpayers foot the bill. Eagle has spent far too much time and taxpayer money on legal disputes. A strong mayor weighs situations to assure that a more appropriate and potentially successful path is chosen.”

Ridgeway said that if elected he would “provide Eagle sensible, thoughtful leadership based on logical reasoning, take a conservative and involved approach to budgeting, increase transparency in the way the city conducts its business and encourage more public input.”

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Stan Bastian

Bastian earned an A.A. degree from Santa Rosa Community College; a B.A. from California State University, Sonoma; an M.A. from Colorado State University; and a Specialist Degree in Educational Administration from the University of Idaho.

He and wife Kathy moved to Eagle in 1978.

The couple has five children, three whom live in Eagle. He is a retired high school teacher and administrator, and a retired building contractor of custom homes. For several years he managed the Professional and Technical Programs in the Nampa School District.

Bastian served as an Eagle city councilman from 1990 to 2006, as a member of the Idaho House of Representatives from 2004 to 2006, the Idaho Senate from 2006 to 2008, and on the College of Western Idaho Board of Trustees from 2008 to present.

“I am a candidate for Eagle city council because I believe that the council needs members who are problem solvers and consensus builders,” he says. “My approach is to understand the issues, listen to testimony and faithfully apply the ordinances and codes of the city.

My first order of business will be to assist in crafting a new comprehensive plan, based upon community input, which will guide the future development of the city. I plan to bring stability, direction and leadership to the council.”

Shane Curry

Curry is originally from St. Albans, Vt. and has owned a house in Eagle for almost eight years. He graduated from Bellows Free Academy in 1990 and is a retired military veteran. He served 20 years active duty in the U.S. Navy, spending his last 16 years of service aboard Los Angeles Class nuclear submarines.

He also served almost four years with the Vermont Army National Guard, worked for the New England Central Rail Road for three years and is currently employed by the City of Boise.

Curry says he decided to run for city council because “I'm tired of our tax dollars being wasted on projects that help either council’s friends or their personal agendas,” because taxpayer dollars “are being spent frivolously, without thinking outside-the-box for more fiscally responsible solutions” and because “there are 44 vacant commercial locations, on west State street alone, that should be occupied by businesses.”

“The City needs to focus on getting more businesses here and less on developing every inch of agricultural land west or north of downtown,” he says. “I have a six-year-old daughter. I want her to grow up in a city that will be vibrant.”

Curry added that he has spent 24 years fighting oppressive governments.

“I never expected to come home and battle it here, with the city's overreach and abusive use of power through eminent domain,” he said.

Kevin Keep

Keep and his family left California for Idaho five years ago and have lived in Eagle for three years.

“We love this community and I am anxious to serve,” he says.

He has been an entrepreneur for 30 years, operating businesses that franchised properties from the NFL and MLB “selling products to tens of thousands of retail stores” and developed real estate projects in Arizona.

He currently serves as president of a marketing company that caters to the after-market auto industry.

A few years ago, he formed a non-profit organization in Eagle called “Rebuilding Generations,” which “unites grandfathers, dads and youth to restore cars.”

Keep’s run for city council is fueled by his passion to “KEEP EAGLE GREAT!, to see Eagle grow and to mentor Eagle’s youth to become tomorrow’s leaders,” he says, adding that his experience can help answer some of the city’s pressing questions.

COUNCIL CANDIDATES

“Philosophically, I believe the council must spend the taxpayers’ money very judiciously, balancing creating the ‘best Eagle can be’ and controlling taxes,” he says. “It’s not our money, it’s yours (the residents’).”

He adds: “Eagle taxpayers have funded nearly $3 million to the Ada County Highway District during the last 15 years and ACHD has not spent that much on Eagle-based projects.

I hope I can be a part of a council that gets more than Eagle’s fair share of these funds.

Relative to code enforcement, I believe the City of Eagle must make itself very supportive of businesses while asking businesses to honor their civic duty by making Eagle the most beautiful and welcoming it can be.”

Jeff Laughlin

Laughlin began working by age 10 mowing lawns and at 13 he helped run an auto parts store. Jeff had always wanted to be a professional race driver. Since his family could not afford the expense, he continued to work hard and save his money to attend the world famous ELF Winfield racing school in France. By age 18, he became a professional test driver for a Formula 3000 team. He attended college in Marseille, France and returned home with a degree in Marketing.

He has over 20 years of experience working in healthcare management. He set up operations for a technical division for an international staffing company and was the Western VP for a healthcare recruiting and staffing firm. He has directed daily operations and financials for a multi-state network of occupational medical facilities. In 1997, he and wife Michelle established a healthcare service organization, managing healthcare services and over $28 million in revenue.

Laughlin has also been actively involved in community service throughout his life. He has been a youth counselor for his church and a camp counselor. He has volunteered and run operations for a homeless shelter, served on HOAs (Homeowner’s Associations) and is actively involved with numerous city boards and committees and other volunteer programs.

“I am not a politician but I have a deep sense of commitment to our community and want only the best for our future here in Eagle. As a non-politician and citizen of Eagle, I believe I can bring common sense to the table. I think it is important to get more of our citizens involved in the process to keep special interests from negatively changing the life we enjoy here in Eagle.”

Rick Murphree

Murphree holds a B.S. in psychology, an MBA and an Ed.D in Organizational Leadership and Development.

He currently owns two small businesses and teaches in the business management department at Boise State University. He has taught at the college level for 10 years and worked within education administration for about seven years.

Murphree served in the U.S. Army for 11 years.

“The city has seen a tremendous amount of residential growth in the last few years,” he says. “As a resident of Eagle, I continuously struggle with the choices and options for shopping, eating and the opportunity to open up new businesses here in the city. I am running for city council to assist in the process of attracting more investors and small business owners to Eagle. I have a background in running small business and understand fully the intricacies involved in assisting and attracting small business owners to our area. I would like to be a part of the continued residential growth process to insure we grow the city in a healthy manner to include traffic flow and to work with ACHD to make sure this happens in the best interest of the City of Eagle and its residents. I also want to use my business background to help produce a budget that makes sense for the residents and the services the city offers.”

Murphree said that his No. 1 goal if elected “is to work WITH the other city council members, the mayor, the city staff and residents”

and to continue to make Eagle “a great city to live, work, raise a family and to have fun.”

Mike Olsen

Olsen is a member of the Eagle Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, West Valley Little League Board of Directors, is a fall softball coach for West Valley and a past member of the Eagle Historic Preservation Commission.

He also has 20 years experience with the Better Business Bureau as a consumer arbitrator, has served on the Eagle Parks and Recreation Master Plan Stakeholders Committee, Comprehensive Plan Focus Groups and two Eagle/ State Street Traffic Improvement Stakeholders Committees.

“My wife, daughters and I are proud to call Eagle home,” Olsen says. “I am passionate about the City of Eagle, its citizens and businesses. Eagle is a unique city and I wish to maintain that uniqueness, and ensure that the many desirable aspects of living, recreation, and working in Eagle are preserved. I can achieve this through an open dialogue with the citizens of Eagle, support from the community, a working relationship with our business leaders and cohesion amongst the city council and mayor. My 26 years of business operations and management experience will ensure thoughtful, logical and common sense leadership prevails in decision-making. With my ongoing rapport with city officials and departments, I am aware of both the challenges and successes. I look forward to continuing to serve this wonderful city!”

Naomi Preston

Preston earned a B.S. from Denison University, Phi Beta Kappa, High Honors. She worked in marketing management positions for The Kellogg Company in Battle Creek, Mich. and OreIda Foods in Boise before becoming an Eagle business owner in 1994. Preston, a 34-year resident, currently owns Wild West Bakery and Espresso in downtown Eagle.

“I've chosen to run for Eagle's city council to make a difference in the town I love, by restoring integrity and professionalism to the process of city governance,” she says. “If elected, my plans would include: inclusive public input on critical issues, transparency, ensuring balanced growth that preserves the historic character and charm of Eagle, protecting property rights and fiscal accountability.”

Craig Soelberg

Soelberg is currently a Mortgage Loan Officer with First Mortgage Company of Idaho. He has five years of experience as an entrepreneur and nine years working in state government. He supervised the Idaho Labor Board for four of those years and reduced investigation time of unpaid wages by 70 percent. He has seven years experience managing a large staff, writing laws, training the public on legal matters, writing legislative budgets and managing public money.

Soelberg currently serves on the Eagle Planning and Zoning Commission and is a “proud” military veteran, serving with the U.S. Army Reserve from 1993 to 1999.

“My wife and I moved to Eagle because we both grew up in small towns and loved the small town feel within a larger metro area,” he says. “Eagle needs collaborative and professional leadership from city council to be able to preserve the unique character of Eagle.”

He adds that if elected he would “lead growth in a way that preserves Eagle's way of life, including good schools, effective policing, lots of open space and a great library” and focus on “‘right size’ economic development options that fit with the character of Eagle.”

“I am committed to making sure that Eagle citizens’ opinions are heard and considered in city council decisions,” he said.

V O T E

on November 3

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

POLITICS

Star Candidate Election Guide 2015

MAYORAL CANDIDATES

Chad Bell

Bell is a native Idahoan who grew up in the Treasure Valley. He attended Boise High School and Boise State University, and has owned Bell Sprinkler & Landscape Management, a family business, since 1974. He has lived in Star with wife Reba for 23 years. The couple raised three daughters and have seven grandchildren.

He added: “I feel I have valuable experience, having served on Star City Council for 13 years.

We must now keep moving forward with positive economic growth, careful residential planning, and the wise use of public funds. I want to involve the experience, skills and talents of our citizens to build strong community committees, including a Mayor's Youth Council where the youth of Star can plan activities and learn the value of service in their community. Economic development is key to building a city that offers employment opportunity, services, retail, entertainment and recreation, as well as a balance of well planned neighborhoods and subdivisions.

I will work diligently to maintain a positive and open working relationship with the state highway department as they control crucial business access along Highway 44.”

Nate Mitchell (Incumbent)

Mitchell has served as Mayor since January 6, 2004 and served for two years as a city councilman from 2002 to 2004. He served as an artillery officer in the U.S. Army until 1999 and has been employed in the construction industry in the Boise area ever since. Mitchell, who moved to Star in 2001, has two daughters, Abigail and Evelyn.

“I am seeking re-election because I wake up every day and focus on trying to make Star a better place to live,” he says. “The city is in a very strong and stable financial position. We are debt free and have a strong cash reserve. In the last 12 years the city has invested over $7 million in parks and buildings. We have grown nearly 450 percent in population in the same time span. I will continue to make improvements to the way we provide service and ensure the City is well managed and fiscally conservative.”

He added: “I have many specific ideas to make Star a better place to live. We have adopted master plans for revitalizing and improving our downtown core and for developing a regional park along the River Walk. I will continue to work diligently to implement both of these plans. Additionally, our comprehensive plan is now seven years old; I would like to thoroughly review it and our development ordinances to make sure future growth is orderly and does not create a greater burden on city services and the quality of life of our residents.”

COUNCIL CANDIDATES

Skip Banach

Banach is a retired San Diego Police Officer and former Process Engineer who controlled the process in a class-100 lab for thin film metals and ion implantation.

He completed a graduate law program at the University of San Diego and uses his education in the two businesses he operates, Banach Investigations and Last Shadow Security.

“I moved to Star from San Diego and noticed that not only Star, but Idaho, was moving in the same direction as California. I moved here to get away from the liberals and progressives,” he says. “Too many people are willing to complain, but are unwilling to do anything about it. I am running for a seat to help Star remain as it is and not move toward the same future as California. I want to help Star move forward without giving up it's values, to control growth, add business, lower the taxes as more businesses are attracted to Star, and have activities that our youths can be involved in without leaving Star.”

Trevor Chadwick

Chadwick has lived in Star since 1999. He and wife Amber have four children.

He has an MBA, with an added emphasis in Human Resource Management and Marketing, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. Chadwick worked for Sears/Citi-Group as a unit manager and is currently a project manager/ estimator for Specialty Building Contractors and is an instructor/professor at the University of Phoenix.

He is also president of West Valley Little League, volunteers for Idaho Hunters Education/Bow Hunters Education as an instructor and was honored as the 2014 Idaho Fish and Game Regional Instructor of the Year.

“I have a vision for the future for our great city, bringing new energy and enthusiasm to get things done and improve the quality of our town,” he says. “Every town becomes better by refreshing those in leadership to assure continued growth in a positive manner.”

Chadwick says that if elected, he would work to “revitalize the downtown core of our great city while working to encourage business to come to Star; create more local jobs; work to develop a community center; and work with developers to create more open green spaces, while also strategically planning additional open spaces for the development for future school zones.

“For more detailed information, please see my flyer in the November issue of The Independent News, email me at chadwickforstar@gmail.com or visit my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ chadwickforstar.”

Tom Erlebach (Incumbent)

Tom has lived in the Star area for 24 years. After 18 years with NFIB he founded Moon Valley Landscaping (no affiliation with Moon Valley Properties). He is the owner of six properties in Star and the CFO for the startup “Scoopclip.” He served as the liaison to the Department of Parks & Recreation, is a member of the Star Lions and Chamber of Commerce and volunteers for the Hometown Celebration.

“I have served the city of Star for three terms and am seeking re-election for one final term,” he says “I am proud of the parks created since serving on city council and wish to oversee the completion of the Star Skate Park and work on the regional park along the River Walk. I also want to assist in the development of future commercial projects. My most important accomplishment and continuing goal is to keep our city debt free.”

He added: “I want a place for older kids to call their own,” he said. “I have first hand knowledge from my own son of how a skatepark can keep kids active, local and safe in a family friendly environment. I also want to improve communication with our residents through social media and the city website providing a non-biased source of information for things like events, volunteering opportunities and feedback to city leaders.”

Randy Furniss

Furniss and his wife recently celebrated their 43rd anniversary. They are the parents of six children and are “blessed” with 13 grandchildren. He received a BA in government from Idaho State University and has been involved in public service since 1973.

“In my present stage of life I have time, energy and the desire to work for the city and citizens of Star,” he says. “Star has been our home since 2007. We fell in love with the quality of life here. Star reminds me of what Idaho used to be. We need to keep it like that. We know growth is headed our way, but we can manage it by following and tweaking the master plan. We cannot afford to have Star become another bedroom community. Planning is key.

COUNCIL CANDIDATES

He added: “City leaders have developed a thoughtful plan for a downtown business corridor. We need to be actively engaged in searching for new commerce to locate in Star. Commuters driving through our city need a reason to stop here. I will concentrate on following the current master plan so Star doesn’t become another Treasure Valley city flooded and overcome by growth. I will also work with transportation officials to influence their decisions on solving the traffic gridlock we experience at least twice daily. Our Future is Now!”

David Gochnour

Gochnour was born and raised in Idaho and graduated from Boise State University with a BS in biology and then from the College of Southern Idaho with an MS in Forestry.

He worked for the U.S. Forest Service for over 35 years, in Idaho, Oregon and Montana and retired as a Forest Supervisor responsible for 1.7 million acres of public land, 250 employees and a $24 million annual budget.

He also had a long career officiating high school sports and has been active in numerous civic organizations. His wife, Ann, is a retired schoolteacher. The couple has two grown children and two “spoiled” golden retrievers.

“I served on city councils twice before - in John Day, Oregon and Orofino, Idaho,” Gochnour says. “I prided myself in always being prepared and being available to citizens when needed.

“I have three primary goals: 1) Manage the growth in Star instead of just reacting to it. To do this we need to update the city comprehensive plan and stay on top of the city code. 2) Work with law enforcement to keep drugs and gangs out of the city and stay a family friendly and safe community. 3) Attract and keep new businesses by keeping taxes low and the city in its current solid financial condition. For more information about me, please visit my website at www.Doug4Star.com.”

David Hershey

Hershey has many years of experience working in development and administration of government contracts, grants and policy. He has over six years experience teaching Political Science for an online university and proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps for six years as an artillery forward observer.

“My life experience has been in service of a greater good, as a steward of the tax dollar, an educator and United States Marine,” he says. “I attended regular meetings and had the opportunity to offer public input on proposed projects.

This is what first sparked my desire to run for city council. I have many years experience that will help make me a very good candidate and member of the Star city council. I am an expert in review and negotiations of proposals that will be submitted to our city for development purposes.”

He added: “I have a solid track record in review and development of policy. I am first going to visit each of the ordinances that have been adopted by our city. Recently it has surfaced that we need to have a detailed review, public input and make changes to contradictory and ambiguous ordinances.

“I have sought out positions where I can affect the greater good; my skills will be beneficial to the people of Star. I would be an excellent choice as a Star city council member.”

Ulysses Mori

Mori is a past Chairman of the Star Chamber of Commerce and is a business owner, employer, board member, soccer coach and an avid fisherman.

“I have attended many of the city council meetings and feel there is room for improvement,” Mori says.

“Many of the council members have been in their positions for many years and I feel new,

November 2015 • PAGE 13

fresh members would be a good thing for our city. I am looking forward to digging into the details of all our procedures and making suggestions where I think it would be of benefit to all of us. Public Safety is a high priority for me. High ethics are a must as well.

He adds: “My plans are to listen to everyone with interest and make myself available to everyone with questions or interest in the city council's process. I will treat everyone with respect and understand I am a servant to the citizens of Star. I will also ask hard questions that will help the council make better decisions for the city.

I intend to earn the voter’s respect and trust because I know I will be working for each and every one of you.”

Kevin Nielsen

“I am inspired by the possibilities and opportunities facing Star, and I am excited to help shape our city’s future and ensure citizens’ rights are protected,” Nielsen says. “It is important that Star remain a debt-free city with services and programs that benefit all. I believe that our growth needs to be approached pro-actively, reasonably and in partnership with the community, landowners and developers. My family has lived in Star for nearly 11 years and our roots are planted deep we love Star and the many wonderful people in our community!”

He added: “As a member of the city council I will work to improve our parks by replacing dead/dying landscaping and repairing playground and infrastructure as needed. I will also work toward expanding our already great parks and recreation function to include infrastructure, activities and programs for youth of all ages, which could include partnering with civic organizations to provide after-school activities. Star’s comprehensive plan needs to be refreshed and our overall goals for growth made current. I have worked tirelessly to help our distressed neighborhoods recover in the aftermath of bankrupt developers and I will work to ensure future neighborhoods are protected from similar disasters before construction begins. Finally, I will work to bring jobs and services into Star by getting our economic development committee running again and spreading the word that Star is ready for business! More great ideas at: www.facebook.com/good4star.”

Robert Wurster

Wurster and his wife Mindi have been married for 15 years. The couple has a son, Clayton, who is almost 6years-old. They have lived in Star for almost 10 years and have been “very active” in the community.

Wurster runs a local financial advisory business and has served as President of Lions Club, chairman of the Star Economic Development Committee, Star Chamber of Commerce board member, President of Celestial Village HOA a Star Hometown Celebration volunteer.

He says he wants to help Star achieve its potential through revitalization and beautification of its central business district.

“In March of 2011 the city adopted a master plan of projects to revitalize the Star Central Business District,” he says. “The plan included construction of a city plaza, creation of walking paths, displays of public art and additional city events. I plan to move these ideas forward to ensure Star is a place people are proud of.

Wurster says he also recognizes the issues created by significant growth and that he can provide the leadership to help manage it.

“By some estimates, the population in the Treasure Valley will double in the next 10 years,” he says. “This could mean that Star could grow to approximately 14,000 residents. We need to be thoughtful about where and how this growth will happen, including land use, infrastructure, connectivity, services and sense of community.

We need leadership that is proactive, not reactive. Star needs to take an active leadership role in bringing stakeholders together to benefit Star.”

PAGE 14 • November 2015

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

2015 Star Quilt Show Proceeds Benefit Local School and Senior Center

The 2015 Star Quilt Show, held in July had a very successful show this year. There were over 1000 people that came to our Friday and Saturday event. North Star Charter School’s Athletic Department and Star Senior Center were awarded donations from the proceeds of the event.

There were quilts from four states and all of the surrounding counties. This was the fourth year for quilting vendors; many of the vendors have already said they want to come back next year. We would like to thank everyone that made this year’s show a huge success, our suppliers, vendors, volunteers, and our quilting friends. Keep checking our Star Quilt Show Facebook page and our web page, starquiltshow.com for updated information. If you are interested in helping with the Star Quilt Show call Judy @ 286-7595.

Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings. ~ William Arthur Ward

Betty Smith presented North Star Charter School Athletic Director Dan Conti with Physical Education and Health & Fitness teachers Suzy Sawyers and Brittney Lehman with a check from proceeds of the 2015 Star Quilt Show.

Proceeds from this year’s Quilt Show also benefited the Star Senior Center.

President Norma Dawson and Treasurer Bethe Morgan accepted a check from the 2015 Star Quilt Show. Betty Smith presented the check. Also, present were a few of the Senior Center members.

~ LETTER TO THE EDITOR ~

Candidates and Community Shine at Forum

I assisted with some of the coordination of the recent Candidates Forum that was hosted by The Independent News. There are several candidates running in this election and this is a very important time for Star. It was encouraging so see so many great people up on that stage! All of the candidates presented well and obviously have a passion for this community. Star is fortunate to have this kind of choice to make on Election Day. On another note, I just have to give a shout out to the community. The Forum was very well attended; I would guess there were 175-200 people there. At the conclusion, we started folding and putting away the chairs. I looked around at one point and could not believe how many people had jumped in to assist. There must have been 20 worker bees that were hustling to get the chairs done. And this is just one of the reasons that I love Star. There are some really great people that live here - Thanks to all of you!!!

Now, make sure to get out and Vote on November 3rd!

Denice VanDoren Star

Hollywood is No Eagle

2015 Eagle Grad Connor Williams shares his journey of trying to make it in Hollywood

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite days of the year because it reminds us to give thanks and to count our blessings. Suddenly, so many things become so little when we realize how blessed and lucky we are. ~ Joyce Giraud

As I drove to my new apartment the first day in North Hollywood I was amazed at the traffic. Crazy drivers, crazier people! What a mess. And I thought Eagle Road was bad. How I miss Eagle Road.

Two weeks before I moved to North Hollywood, I sent out blind emails to top managers and agents. I sent about 75 emails and got 7 responses for meetings. Two managers from that seven were ones I was really interested in working with. One of those top 2 asked for a meeting in Beverly Hills. While I wanted to enjoy Rodeo Drive, I was super nervous. A meeting didn’t automatically mean representation. He said I was only the second person he has ever responded to a blind email. The first person was Jacob Artist who played Jake Puckerman on Glee. I wanted him because he has a small, successful client base. The meeting went great; he asked me to cancel all of my appointments and sign with him. Done!

He called after lunch to tell me I had an audition that day. Is this really happening? It’s a role I can nail. A bad person. It went really well; I could tell they liked it. As I was driving back, they called and asked if I can turn around and read for another part. I had initially read for the 12th biggest role in the film, but now they wanted me to read for “Jimmy”, the 5th largest role. Of course, I didn’t have time to prepare, but I did my best.

Driving back, I wasn’t sure how I did. A couple days later, they asked me back to read for the original role. Three days after that, they offered me the role I originally read for. I was on cloud nine. First week in Hollywood and I booked a movie!! The next day, they called to tell me they wanted me for the Jimmy role.

Great script, great role.

During this time, I started orientations for

Local actor, Connor Williams, filming “Happy Hunting” in Texas

New York Film Academy. I earned a great scholarship, but there’s an attendance requirement. Before moving to LA, I had booked a feature shooting in Texas with Barry Corbin and Quinton Aaron. I knew I would be a gone a week, which would work; however, now with playing Jimmy in “Happy Hunting”, I will miss more than the allowable days.

Do I bow out of the Texas shoot? Do I drop out of school? It’s a very confusing time.

While writing this article, I don’t know what is going to happen. My parents have shared their thoughts and I don’t agree with them.

Looks like I’m making my first big time decision as an adult. Look for December’s TIN issue and my decision. I may drop my scholarship to do both movies.

Connor Williams is the youngest producer of a feature film. He made Spoilers the Movie right here in Eagle and has won several awards. To rent or buy this movie go to www.spoilersthemovie.com

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Joe’s View “Just in Time”

I have been thinking about time lately.

In particular, the portions of it that I am in control of versus the

part that controls me.

There are parts of our life where we feel that we have plenty of time. The future is so far away, it is needless worry to even think about it. We are told by song and art to live for the day. And yet our Financial Planners tell us the best time to prepare for the future is today. And as we get older, we often wish we had more time because yesterday is gone.

My life seems to be made up of lists.

While not all these are on paper, my lists float around me and are what I try to organize my time with. I have lists that are daily, weekly, monthly, annual, and even by decades. I have things I want to do and things I wish to avoid.

How I get to these line items are what the lists are for.

For example, on my Decade list, I would like to be able to volunteer my time at a nonprofit that I believe in. I would like to do this in the next 10 years. But to do this, I have to get several things off another list so that this can happen. And here is where the frustration begins.

A never-ending, unanticipated flow of “life” keeps hitting us in the face. We often try to work towards a goal only to be knocked back three steps for every two forward. It is easy for outsiders to tell us to just “Paddle harder!” and we will get there. Or “have faith”, it will happen, and yet while we know this is all true, the only real understanding of our own progress comes from inside us.

Therefore, one of the realizations I have

had is that I need to get comfortable with my limitations. If I take a few minutes and can look forward, I can pretty much see what is realistic and what is not. Then, I need to reflect and convince myself that some of the list items need to be let go of. I will never be able to complete all of them. Nobody could.

I will never be able to mold the world around me to fit what I want to happen, all of the time. And yet, I do not in any way feel I am giving up. Quite the opposite in fact. What I am doing is creating a peace and contentment through a renewed focus and a rifle shot at my list rather than a shotgun blast.

Right now, I am enjoying de-cluttering.

I am getting rid of material things that take needless time and mental attention. If it is no longer in my life, I can stop thinking about it and all the “would-should-could”. I am also closing off incomplete or unresolved guilt issues by doing this. “Finish it” has become a focal point with great effectiveness and satisfaction.

The vision is for a life of minimum distraction and maximum efficiency and usefulness.

Will I get there? I am not sure, but is has been an enlightening process that I hope to be able to complete… someday. What is right for one is not right for all, so only you can determine if you own your time or if time owns you.

How many clocks are in your home? This is an indicator of who owns who. Go ahead, count them. Include any device or means for you finding out what time it is. The first 4-6 are easy to find. Think again and I bet you double or triple that. Who owns who?

Sorry, I’m out of time, I have a newspaper deadline to meet. We’ll talk more, later.

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.

November 2015 • PAGE 15

PAGE 16 • November 2015

THE ARTS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Jack Reacher Returns in Make Me...Enough Said

By Tom Wick Jack Reacher, if you don’t know him, is a “no holds barred” kind of guy. Not to say that for him, the ends justifies the means, but when any action, or any reaction can be justified, Reacher gets the job done. “Even when not required.”

Make Me is Lee Child’s twentieth novel about the former military police corps officer.

No need to catch up on the last nineteen tales, Make Me stands on its own. Reacher has been a loner for many years: he travels with only a toothbrush and cash and always finds trouble.

In Make Me, Reacher, on a train headed to Chicago, decides to stop off for the night in a whistle stop town, “just because he can…not because he wants to.” He meets a woman who seems distressed and so the story begins to unfold. Michelle works for a private detective agency and she is in the town because one of her co-workers, Keever, who was there on assignment, has gone missing. That’s enough of a reason for Reacher to stay and help.

Child’s Reacher stories have been told with different points of view over the years. Make Me uses a third person narrative, but not entirely omniscient. The narrator in this story tells this story in that way that Reacher is so ultra-observant. Upon meeting a journalist who had had contact with the original client, Reacher begins to assess that Westwood had “short but unruly hair, going gray, and a beard of the same length and color.” No, these are not details necessary to solve a murder and conspiracy, but details that gets the reader in

the mindset of Reacher.

As the story unfolds, the reader has the opportunity to think like Reacher and that makes not for just a good story, but great entertainment.

Before Reacher met with Westwood, they spoke on the phone. Reacher has called him to let him know that Westwood’s contact and Keever are missing. “How?” asks Westwood, “Where is he?”

The next narrative line is priceless, “Reacher said nothing.” Classic Reacher. He doesn’t respond to momentary lapses of judgment, even if the person, like Westwood, is under duress.

Stoic as he is, Reacher is convincing. He doesn’t have to help Michelle with her case: she did not even ask for help. Through wordplay she realizes that he has committed to helping, she finally gives in. “I feel bad for asking.” He reassures her, “You’re not asking.

I’m offering.” She accepts and both travel from Oklahoma to Chicago, to Phoenix, California, and back to Oklahoma and realize that a missing persons case has evolved into a thrilling mystery of unspeakable crimes.

Child’s 2008 Reacher novel, One Shot, was made into the 2012 Tom Cruise movie Jack Reacher. Worth watching if you have not seen it and the next Jack Reacher movie is tentatively set to release in 2016. If you like Make Me, and want to read more, I recommend next, Never Go Back, and then One Shot.

We are Thankful for You our readers, Happy Thanksgiving

November 2015 • PAGE 17

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

TRINA’S

FITNESS CORNER Hiring a Trainer

Hiring a personal trainer is serious business; at least I think it is.

You are going to show yourself on your first date and many more dates after that. This is who you will tell when you get engaged, get a raise…or get fired. This is the person who will see you in all of your glory, so chose wisely.

Do your homework. Ask around as there are a lot of trainers out there. Do you want a man or a woman? That might depend on your comfort level. If looks matters to you get someone with a look you can trust. Go ahead and conduct a fairly formal interview. Use specific, preplanned questions. Ask yourself whether this particular trainer would motivate you to get the results you want. Would you feel encouraged by him/her? Do they have that certain charm necessary to help you reach your goals? If you answer

no to any of these questions, keep searching.

Are credentials important? “Certified” means the trainer learned a lot and was able to pass the exam. According to Gunnar Peterson, CSC, CPT “having a certification doesn’t make them a good or bad trainer, there are plenty of certified trainers I would not train with.” Do you want someone who has their on-line certification framed on the wall, or someone who has roamed the weight room since the dawn of time? There is no right or wrong answer; these are questions you need to ask yourself before hiring your personal trainer. Peterson says, “There are also time tested trainers who learned the field before certifications even existed, and I would be honored to train with them.”

The age of your trainer might be important to you. The appearance of your trainer might have something to do with your choices. Bottom line: this is about you and your comfort level. Find someone who makes you show up and drives you to work hard once you get there.

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

Sidewalk Talk

TIN Reporter, Mickie Park, asked the most common and popular question during the month of October… “What/Who will you be on Halloween?”

Coree - Daphne Tyler - Scooby Doo

Mom Kassie - Ninja Turtle Aubrie - Maleficent Natasha - Joker’s Girlfriend Aurora - Captain America Elena Wilson - Lion/Cheetah Ballerina Alisa Wilson - Batgirl

Drake - Captain America Clayton - I Phone Olivia - Princess

Emellia - Pocahontas Kaylie - Archer Sophia - Vampire

PAGE 18 • November 2015

CIT Y OF STAR

Star Outreach is in dire need of: soup, peanut butter, canned fruit, chili, dry pasta and rice, and mac & cheese

Sign ups for Adopt-a-Family (food box) will be Thursday 3-5pm.

Adopt-a-Family wish trees will be put out in November.

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.

November 2015 Star Chamber Calendar

WE WANT TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE BOARD HAS UNANIMOUSLY AGREED TO Nov. 5 at 11:45 a.m. - 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. Asian Wok on the corner of Plummer and Hwy 44 in Toon Town.

Nov. 5 at 12:45 p.m. - 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 NOV. 19 6:30 p.m. - General Meeting Networking, Chamber Business and nominations for any open seats on the board.

Elections will be at the November Membership meeting.

Nov 1 – Nov 23 - Star Christmas Extravaganza: Registrations for Bazaar, Music, Decorate Star, Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festival of Stars.

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 - November Events We celebrate Family Read Week from November 16 - 21.

Any card holder may have up to $10 in fines waived during this week with your non-perishable food donation! Look for our special Family Read Aloud program on Tuesday, November 17 at 6:00 p.m.

Mondays 11/2, 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30 Preschool Play and Learn Story time, (3–5 years), 10:30 a.m. (no program 11/23) After-School Lego Club, (all ages), 4 - 5 p.m. (no program 11/23).

Family Movie and Munchies, 11/23, 3 - 5 p.m.

Tuesdays 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 11/24 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, stealth building, and Books ‘n Bites. (no program 11/24).

Family Read Aloud Pajama Story Time and Stuffed Animal Sleep-over Tuesday, November 17 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

For all ages, come hear our special guests read their favorite stories. Bring your special stuffed animal for a library sleepover, and check out our Facebook page the next day to catch all the antics.

Meet our mascot, Whoodini!

Wednesdays 11/4, 11/18, 11/25 Star Knitters meet at the library, 10:30 - 12:30 p.m.

Open to anyone interested.

Minecraft play, (ages 8+), 4 - 5 p.m. (no program on 11/25).

X-box and online versions.

Thursdays 11/5, 11/12, 11/19 Tots and Teenies story time, (birth - 3), 10:30 a.m. Stories, fingerplays, and songs for little ones and a parent.

Maker Time, (all ages), 4 p.m. Have fun creating and playing with the marble run.

Puppet Show on 11/19, 4:30 p.m. –all ages welcome.

Fridays 11/6, 11/13, 11/20 Music and Movement (all ages), 10:30 a.m. – Kids learn rhythm, coordination and other skills while moving to music.

Hunger Games after-hours Teen program (12 and up), 11/13, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Pit your survival skills against the other tributes, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

Snacks and a special drawing prize.

Saturday 11/14 “Beyond the Book” discussion, (adults) 10 a.m. We are reading The Invention of Wings, by Sue Monk Kidd. Stop by the library early to pick up a copy of the book and join us for a rousing discussion. *Preschools and daycares are welcome to call the library to schedule a story time visit!

Just call 286-9755.

The Star Branch Library will be closed on Wednesday, November 11 for Veteran’s Day, and on Thursday and Friday, November 26 and 27 for the Thanksgiving holiday. We will be closing early on Wednesday, November 25 at 3 p.m. We wish all of you a Happy Thanksgiving!

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

November Activities: Walmart Shopping - Contact Bethe at 286-7943 Goldmine Newsletter arrives Blood Pressure taken by the Star Firemen Foot Clinic/Cost $25/starts at 9 a.m./Call 286-7943 to make appt.

Music by Larry - start at 11 a.m.

November 7: Potato Bar – noon to 6 p.m. Potatoes with all fixing, drinks & homemade desserts November 10: Appointment Day/$12 haircuts, bank, doctor appointments, etc.

Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Contact Bethe at 286-7943 November 11: CENTER IS CLOSED Outing to Cracker Barrel in Nampa - Contact Bethe at 286-7943 November 12: Appointment Day/haircuts, bank, doctor appointments, etc.

Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Contact Bethe at 286-7943 November 17: Outing to Horseshoe Bend Senior Center (Meatloaf, green beans, fruit cocktail) Contact Bethe at 286-7943 November 18: Board Meeting Birthday Recognition Music by Larry - start at 11 a.m.

November 20: Root Beer Floats between 11 a.m. and noon– free November 27: CENTER IS CLOSED November 30: Outing to Glenwood Thrift Shops (Idaho Youth Ranch & Goodwill) and lunch at Applebee’s - Contact Bethe at 286-7943 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.

November 2: November 4: November 6:

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. Classes Sponsored by Central District Health. will be held on Wednesday 4:30 - 6 p.m. at No Cost – Join Anytime!

Star City Hall $5.00/class. No experience Held at Star City Hall 10769 W. State St. needed. Bring project or call for suggestions 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Monday Wednesday, Friday at 286-7247.

Pilates Tuesday and Thursday “T’was the Night Before Christmas”, 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. taught by experienced instrucbased on the famous poem by Clemente Clarke tor Julia Hilleary. Class meets at Star City Hall with music by Sally K. Albrecht and Jay Althouse. and all abilities are welcome. $25/class per Children in Kindergarten through 6th grade are month. Class will be ongoing with the minimum encouraged to be a part of this Star tradition. of 6 participants. Please bring a mat.

Cost: $15 and a costume. Practices will be held Yoga Monday and Wednesday Monday evenings at Star Community Church in 9 - 10 a.m. at Star City Hall ongoing throughout November. Sign up at www.staridaho.org or call the winter months (September- May). Bring a 208 286-7247 if you have questions. yoga mat and $25 per month. Call 286-7247 for more details.

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

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

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

City of Star Public Hearing

Notice is hereby given that the Star City Council will hold a Special Council Meeting for the purpose of holding a public hearing on November 2, 2015 at the Star City Hall, 10769 W. State Street at 6:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.

Applicant: City of Star, P.O. Box 130, Star, Idaho 83669 Application: Ordinance No. 252

Action: An Ordinance of the City of Star, Idaho amending Title 8, Chapters 2 and 3 of the Star City Code, amending the definition of apartment building, deleting apartment building from the zoning schedules of uses, and amending multi-family dwelling in the zoning schedule of uses; and providing for an effective date.

Testimony is encouraged at the public hearing. Written comments will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. on the date of the public hearing.

Services for persons with disabilities may be made available if notice is received in advance of the meeting by calling Star City Hall at 286-7247.

Aspiring writers: Looking for experience or to add to your portfolio?

Love attending local community or sports events?

We want to talk to you!

Email Melissa Upton with a writing sample at editor@theindnews.com

November 2015 • PAGE 19

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Getting Your Vehicle Ready For Winter

Car Care Tips from the Pros Prepare You for Fall and Winter Driving It’s foolhardy to head out in a poorly maintained vehicle in the dead of winter, of course, but even vehicle owners in temperate zones need a car care check as the days grow shorter.

Regular, routine maintenance can help improve your gasoline mileage, reduce pollution, and catch minor problems before they become big headaches. Steve's Auto Care offers these car care tips to give you peace of mind during fall and winter driving: • Before you do anything else, read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.

• Get engine performance and driveability problems — hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc. — you can have it checked and corrected at Steve's Auto Care. Cold weather makes existing problems seem worse.

• Replace dirty filters, such as air, fuel, and PCV. A poorly running engine is less efficient and burns more gasoline.

• As the temperature drops below freezing, add a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line. Keeping the gas tank filled also helps prevent moisture from forming.

• Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual — more often if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of frequent short trips. Remember regular oil and filter changes is one of the most frequently neglected services, yet one that is essential to protect your engine.

• The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.

• Replace old blades regularly. If your climate is harsh, purchase rubber-clad (winter) blades to fight ice buildSteve Green up. Stock up on windof Steve’s shield washer solvent Auto Care — you’ll be surprised how much you use during the winter months. And don’t forget to always carry an ice scraper.

• Inspect all lights and bulbs. Replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag. Clouded lenses can be refinished by many service outlets or by using a DIY kit found in major auto parts outlets.

• Have your brakes checked periodically Steve's Auto Care always offers a Free Brake Inspection for the safety and to prevent costly repairs that can be caused by neglect.

• The transmission is often neglected until a major failure. Routine checks and fluid changes at prescribed intervals can prevent very costly repairs down the line.

• Always carry an emergency kit with you: extra gloves, boots and blankets; flares; a small shovel and sand or kitty litter; tire chains; a flashlight and extra batteries; and a cell phone and extra car charger. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.

Here at Steve’s Auto Care ( across from the Star Merc.) we always have free service to help check and maintain your vehicle. We offer free pick-up, delivery and towing within Star city limits. Any questions, comments or if you would just like to talk feel free to contact Steve at (208) 863-2748.

Have a great and safe November.

This is a Paid Advertorial

Steve's Auto Care (208) 863-2748

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

Everest is a movie, a story let’s say, of the nature of man and what happens when bad decisions are made. Mt. Everest, for which the movie is named, is the hallmark of nature: that which could not be conquered and was. The result of the conquest? Well, there is no shortage of articles about how much garbage and human waste are on Everest. Its snow isn’t even safe enough to boil into water. Now that you’re enlightened a little bit about Everest and the human destruction of nature, the movie may be a bit more interesting to you.

There is so much human traffic on the way up to the peak that lives are in peril due to the congestion. In the movie, based on actual events, one of the climbers yells out to his guide, “I didn’t pay you $60,000 to stand in line at Wal-Mart!” Because of on-going bad decisions, this climber, at one point abandoned and left for dead, loses his hands and nose to frostbite. Several guides and other hikers die.

You’re not really watching a movie about Everest, or nature. Everest is movie about human nature. And it is worth watching.

Great acting, great story…great message.

Worth seeing on the silver screen.

On a lighter note, I enjoyed the sequel The Scorch Trials as much, if not more, than The Maze Runner. Is it epic? No. But it was fun, it had zombies, and there’s going to be another sequel. Yay for trilogies! What I don’t get is

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

why do people, in movies that have zombies, why do they call them things like “cranks”?

They’re not cranks. They’re zombies. Who on planet Earth doesn’t know what a zombie is?

Aside from that, Scorch Trials steps it up a few notches versus Runner: looks like most of the cast took some acting classes during the break, the director had a few extra bucks for better CGI, and the story moves along at a nice clip, except for one scene where they’re unnecessarily stuck in some kind of weird dance club, I didn’t get that, but hey, it was a great time to get the free refill on my Coke and popcorn. Like I say, if you liked the first one, this one is definitely worth the cheap seats. The final chapter, The Death Cure, comes out in 2017.

The Martian was out of this world ☺! Easily worth first run fare. Best shipwreck story, hands down, since Robinson Crusoe. I mean, this guy grows potatoes on Mars. I can’t even grow grass on Earth! I know it’s fake, but breathtaking views of the Martian landscape and night sky make the story all the more plausible. Definitely worth twelve bucks for entertainment.

If you like heartwarming movies with campy scenes and lots of cheese (yeah, okay, guilty as charged), The Intern delivers it all.

Entirely predictable and equally entertaining.

You could wait for this one on Redbox. And who doesn’t like Robert De Niro? Cranks?

Food Donation Needed Eagle Foodbank

Distribution Days are the first and third Thursday of every month 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and the last Tuesday 6-7 p.m.

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

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

The Eagle Foodbank is also open most Fridays from 4-6pm to receive non-perishable donations. Donations may be mailed to: Eagle Foodbank, PO Box 1081,Eagle, ID 83616.

Hope Lutheran Food Bank

Open Monday - Wednesday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

After-hours by appointment.

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

NOVEMBER 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. 18 and on the online calendar at

www.theindnews.com

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 randym@theindnews.com

PAGE 20 • November 2015

STAR NEWS

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

Star’s 38th Pheasant Hunter’s Breakfast

By Mickie Park October 17 was the 38th annual Star Volunteer Firefighter’s Association Pheasant Hunter’s Breakfast. Breakfast was prepared by our firefighters and served up by Star Lions. It was a perfect morning to meet our firefighters and say thank you for all they do for our community.

Between 6:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., there were an average of 700 hungry breakfast goers.

Early morning brought in dedicated hunters; mid-morning brought families and friends.

An all-you-can-eat breakfast complete with pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, hash browns, and a beverage was offered for only $6. It was a breakfast for champions.

Councilman Chad Bell and Kevin Nielsen shared a little advice with our firefighters

Star Chamber Presents The Star Fall Festival

By Mickie Park The Star Chamber of Commerce hosted the first annual Fall Festival on October 4. Local businesses, the Star Food Bank/Star Outreach, and many other vendors had booths set up inside and out at the Star Friends Community Barn. Local vendors shared their wares and festival goers enjoyed an afternoon of family fun.

It was a perfect day for the community to stop by and meet the local business owners of Star. Their booths carried many of their daily store items along with a few special items that were on sale just for the festival.

With the holidays right around the corner, it was the perfect opportunity to shop locally for gifts.

The day was filled with games, face painting, a visit from the Star Fire Department and a bounce house for all the kids to enjoy. A special performance by the band, Idyltime filled the room with music and dancing.

Star Outreach also shared a special day at the Festival. Not only did they remind the community about the Annual Food Drive but they announced an upcoming Newsletter for updates and events.

Fall is full of festivities and The Star Fall Festival was a super kick off for the season.

A special thank you to our Star Lions for always volunteering and being a strong part of our community

Raffle tickets were sold, a bake sale was offered by Lifespring Christian Church, and a bounce house entertained the kids.

The money raised from this annual event benefited the firefighters, the community of Star and the surrounding areas. The proceeds were used to purchase new safety and medical equipment, as well as provide training opportunities, update equipment and replenish their Burnout Fund. The Burnout Fund provides short term assistance to families whose homes were destroyed by fire.

The annual Pheasant Hunter’s Breakfast was, once again, a great success. The community thanks Star Fire Department for all they do.

Life Spring Church volunteers Samantha, Beth and Becky held their annual Fundraiser Bake Sale

The question of the day….Was Steve Green the big raffle winner?

Local residents Jane Raynor and Tana Smith were joined by Jane’s sister & brother-in-law

Coordinators April & Michelle with Star Chamber President Tammy

The Best Mom and Daughter team in Star, Cheryl and Irma

Coordinating the Bean Bag Toss was 11 yr old Hannah & 13 yr old Jazmyn

Star Outreach Coordinators Bethany, Holly, and Connie reminded all of the Annual Food Drive & announced their upcoming Newsletter

Helen & Duncan from Helina’s Wine Bar

Star Fireman Dave Sparks helping little Joseph become a little Firefighter

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD - THEME: WORLD SERIES

ACROSS 1. *Where bats are stored, pl.

6. Sheep sound 9. Biblical captain 13. *Player's rep 14. Opposite of nothing 15. Slow on the uptake 16. Rock bottom 17. *____ out a triple 18. Twig of willow tree 19. Pharmacy order 21. *Game that determines homefield advantage 23. Make bigger 24. Team homophone 25. Federal Communications Commission 28. Per person 30. Bank account transactions 35. Bread quantity 37. "Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me" band The ____ 39. Specialty 40. 4,840 square yards 41. Edward Teller's baby 43. Capital on the Dnieper 44. Dandruff manufacturer 46. Ship canvas 47. Additional 48. *H in DH 50. Kind of math 52. Hankering 53. Like a busybody 55. Voluntary fee 57. *Home of 1993 champion Blue Jays 61. Popular flowering shrub 64. Opera house exclamation 65. Not lean 67. Narcotics lawman 69. Of the Orient 70. However, poetically 71. *Ty Cobb or Al Kaline 72. Sushi wrapped in nori 73. Small dog's bark 74. Mercantile establishment DOWN 1. Campaigned 2. Petri dish gel 3. Surrender 4. Mack the _____ 5. *Reason for World Series cancellation 6. *Opposite of strike 7. Sierra Nevada, e.g.

8. Pool problem 9. Nessie's loch 10. "I'm ____ ____!"

11. Away from port

12. *All-Star 2nd baseman, '85 Cardinals champs 15. Neolithic tomb 20. "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" host 22. ____ Zeppelin 24. Like Kathleen Turner's voice 25. *HOFer Frankie Frisch, "The Fordham ____" 26. Spherical bacteria 27. Jeweler's unit 29. *Last World Series win was 1908 31. Two-wheeler 32. In a cold manner 33. Not those 34. *Best-of-____ 36. Matted wool

STAR NEWS

38. Chieftain in Arabia 42. The ____, against Britain 45. Type of flag 49. Break down 51. *2014 World Series champs 54. Sentimental one 56. Braid 57. Kind of ski lift 58. Guesstimate phrase 59. Iron horse track 60. West Wing's Office 61. At the summit 62. Therefore or consequently 63. Maple, to a botanist 66. Bingo!

68. Miner's bounty

Solution on page 20

November 2015 • PAGE 21

PAGE 22 • November 2015

The Independent News • www.theindnews.com

A Teacher’s

Perspective

NETFLIX RX

By Anna Eaton-Merkle People who only know me casually would probably not describe me as having a compulsive personality. I tend to be a bit fragmented to the naked eye, and my boss would certainly attest to the fact that I have no compulsion to be anywhere on time. I usually wait until the last minute to return forms, pay fines, order Christmas presents. In fact, one might even go so far as to use words like unorganized, random, and even disjointed to describe me to the world. Compulsive brings to mind images of alphabetized spice cupboards and color coordinated closets, not mismatched socks and scary refrigerators. And yet, truth be told, there are some things that I just can’t stop doing.

Compulsion is not necessarily a bad thing.

My tendencies run more towards redecorating projects and yard work than more typical endeavors like laundry and cleaning, but I still enjoy making things look nice. Once I get going on an idea, there is really no stopping me. While I wish I had the inclination to compulsively do things that are productive, I generally don’t mind having a driving force that makes me finish something once I have started. However, sometimes my compulsive habits keep me from accomplishing anything at all.

For instance, I read compulsively in the summer. That is probably not a big surprise – I am an English teacher. One could surmise that I enjoy reading more than the average bear. But the fact is, in the summer I read non-stop trash novels. My favorites are trash in a series, but I will settle for all the trash novels by any certain author. I think I could conservatively say that last summer I read at least 20-25 books, 15 of which could fall soundly in the trash category. It is like crunchy Cheetos for my brain. I absolutely have no willpower to stop. But even that isn’t

as bad as my other dirty secret – Netflix.

Once school is back in session, I spend a great deal of time reading papers. That means my brain is tired of reading, and so when I have a little free time, I like to watch TV. Now, if I only watched TV as the networks intended it, say viewing a few shows here and there, once a week, there wouldn’t be a problem. In fact, I remember back in the days before Netflix, I used to NOT watch a show because I knew I couldn’t commit to watching it every week and I didn’t want to be left hanging. But Netflix has made it possible for me to start watching a series, and with only minor breaks for food and sleep, watch the ENTIRE SERIES start to finish.

Trust me – this is not a good thing. It started when Lost came out on DVD sometime after I had given up trying to catch it on regular television. By the time I got ahold of the set, they were in their fifth season. We were snowed in at our cabin over Christmas break and I had nothing better to do than binge watch all the episodes I could. I swear, I thought I was starting to get bedsores from sitting there, but I couldn’t stop. You’d think after that show ultimately disappointed me with the worst ending ever (spoiler alert, the only thing really Lost was the approximate 90 hours it took to finish the whole series), I would learn. But noooooo. I have since watched all of Ally McBeal, How I Met Your Mother, Friends, Breaking Bad, Mad Men, and Game of Thrones. Full disclosure, I also binge read all the Game of Thrones books. I was pretty busy that summer.

So where does this leave me? Nowhere, really. I just felt like confessing this little problem of mine. I don’t even want help for it especially. I just happen to be between shows and was wondering if anyone had any good suggestions? I would hate to have to clean my garage with all this free time.

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.

PARENT GROUP SEEKS HELP IN REPLACING SCOREBOARDS

Eagle High School is home to the top softball team in the state. In fact, the program was nationally ranked last season. However, the school’s home field scoreboards are anything but top notch. Both program’s scoreboards are 20 years old, with only the varsity sign operable.

Currently, the electronics are failing in the varsity scoreboard and the JV scoreboard has not worked in nearly 10 years.

The Eagle High School softball program would like to add to the team’s success by updating the fields and replacing the old scoreboards. “These girls work so hard and have made a winning softball program, here

in Eagle,” said Bryan Fisher, president, Eagle Softball Boosters. “We want to bring the fields up to the standard of the girl’s play.”

There aren’t any school funds available for replacing the boards. So, a parent’s group is working to raise money and gather donations to cover the $12,000 replacement costs.

The proposed scoreboards have the option of placing sponsorship/ advertisement panels to help support the program.

For donations or sponsorship information contact Eagle High School Softball Boosters,

Bryan Fisher at 208-870-2407 or eaglehighsoftball@gmail.com. Donations are tax deductible, as the softball program is 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Proposed scoreboard

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: WORLD SERIES Puzzle on page 20

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

Urban Farm Girl

Recalibration

By Joanne M.W. Love Fall has forever been my favorite season. A time when the landscape and the weather begin a transformation that you can physically see, smell, and feel. It’s a contradiction of sorts that brings a visual symphony of predictable change.

As we bring animals in from the pasture, their summer coats are noticeably thickening with patches of winter hair. The morning temperatures are chillier and the air is laced with leafburning smoke from backyard fires.

I’ve typically embraced this change with an anticipatory giddiness. I’m a coat and scarf junkie so the falling temperatures are a beckoning vice. Fall has always felt like reading the preface to a book you can’t wait to begin … that is until this one. This particular fall, leaving our oldest at his outof-state college, is reading more like a sucker-punch to the gut than an enticing preface, and the book is solely about life-changing recalibration.

I thought I was prepared for the ensuing emotions after attending parent workshops and reading countless literature. As I talked to parents whose kids had already left for college, I felt reassured by their optimistic reports. However, looking back, I can see it’s a topic similar to childbirth. Few people actually confess the raw truth of their experience. Instead, honest answers are replaced with clichés like, “It’s a bit of an adjustment but they’re having a great time.” MY HORSES’ HINEY, it’s a BIT of an adjustment!

The reality is that nothing can truly prepare you because every child’s experience in those first few months is unique to only them. Each child copes with organization, academics, friendmaking, peer-pressure, time-management, diet, exercise, sleep, and loneliness in their own, personal way. I quickly learned that the suckerpunch to the mom isn’t the pain of missing them, it’s the pain of listening / watching them struggle, knowing it’s REALLY out of your hands now.

I know it’s not just an urban legend. There are probably kids who have first year college experiences unfold as if pressing an Easy Button.

After a high school experience that gave not even a glimpse of the Easy Button, our son set higher expectations (perhaps unrealistic) for his first months at college. This out-of-state destination was HIS first choice, not ours, from the start. This is what I remind him of as I pick up

OUTDOORS V<>L:”“RX

the 1 am call on my 24 hour crisis hotline that feeds directly to his room. I go on to remind him that this is a time to learn and focus more on what inspires HIM and less about what other people are thinking of him (wait, didn’t I say these exact words to his sister last year?).

The phone calls are frequent and draining, but the only lifeline of support we can offer.

I marvel at his determination to press on each day as he’s slowly recalibrating to this new environment. I can’t, however, say the same of myself. Frustrated with a suffocating sense of helplessness while he’s been hurting, I have chocolate hidden everywhere and upgraded to a fancier box of wine. My initial reaction after the first agonizing week was to grab bathroom scissors and start dry-chopping 5 inches off my hair.

Boy did that help the situation. Now I was crying about my son AND because I looked ugly. Next I spent any free time I had, furiously cleaning strange things in the house that I’ve never cleaned in 20 years, like the individual rocks in our fireplace.

Entering week six, my random acts of decompensation are stabilizing as we’ve noticed a subtle decrease in the calls and texts home. Our son is talking about the classes he wants to take next quarter and I can quietly tuck back into a drawer, the Plans B, C & D I’d frantically drafted in case the Eject Button was pressed (no one ever has to know about those). My family is recalibrating to the new version of their mom … clingy and with a lowered IQ, since there’s no doubt a small portion of my brain is permanently dedicated to worrying about him. I, too, am growing more comfortable with this new baseline as I recalibrate to the easier, emotional tug of simply missing him. At least this part was what I was expecting. I grab everything with legs at our house for extra hugs and kisses….our 5 month old colt, Gus, is not exempt from my new addiction and seems to be tolerating the smothering.

I cuddle up to Gus whom I spy lying in the pasture, and together we watch the leaves fall as we wait for the kids to get home. Although this year’s book preface was off to a jolting start, I’m hoping the chapters will unfold a story of our son’s personal strength and success.

I wonder if we should calculate to have a baby animal in the barn every two years, as our remaining kids graduate and leave home over the next four? I only have so much hair I can cut.

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

Swing for Sight Golf Scramble raised money for Children’s Vision Screener

The Star Lions Club held the Inaugural “Swing for Sight” Golf Scramble on September 24 at River Birch Golf Course. The forty golfers who participated in the fundraiser had the opportunity to win $15,000 for a hole-in-one on the 8th hole and additional hole-in-one prizes on the remaining par three holes, thanks to the sponsorship of Dr. Brandon Taylor with Star Dental. No one was a big winner.

Taking first place in the scramble was the Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation team of Jay Lugo, Jeff Beskoon, Clay Lyons, and Gary Bannister with a score of 62. Second place went to the Idaho Independent Bank team of Nancy Van Winkle, Rick Fried, Michael Trificante and Damien Reynolds with a score of 63.

Additional prizes were awarded to Kathy

The winning team

Winn, Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin for women, Michael Trificante, Longest Drive for men and Tom Bennett, Longest Putt.

With the funds raised from the tournament, the Lions are purchasing a PlusOptix Vision Screener. This technology will allow the Lions to screen children as young as 6 months for various vision problem, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, corneal reflexes, and pupil size. The screening only requires that the child focus on the screener for .8 of a second and yields a pass or refer result.

The Lions wish to thank their generous hole sponsors, American National Insurance, Atkinson’s Mirror and Glass, Edward Jones, Eye 2 Eye Vision, Idaho Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation, Idaho Independent Bank, Jim and Shari Hunter, Mackley Construction, Mike and Sara Lee, Moon Valley Landscaping, NorthStar Physical Therapy, Smith & Coehlo Real Estate, Star Construction, Summer Lawns, The Lawson Company, and Victory Land and Livestock; all those who donated prizes; Packer Backer BBQ for catering lunch; and all the golfers who made it a special day.

The Star Lions Club is affiliated with Lions Clubs International, the largest volunteer service organization in the world. For more information about what the Lions Clubs does, visit the website www.starlions.org or facebook page www.facebook.com/starlions.

November 2015 • PAGE 23

ROOF DAMAGE

PAGE 24 • November 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