With my daughter, grown and out of school, I find myself out of the loop when I hear about all of the options for students these days. As a kid we had two types of schools, public and private. It was easy to tell the difference because basically, the schools that started with ‘Saint” were the private schools and the rest were all public schools. So much has changed. The public schools have made many changes over the years to help students prepare for jobs and college. The private sector has grown immensely as well.

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Public Schools

The basics:

The Meridian School District is the largest district in the state. It covers 384 square miles and includes 50 schools. The 2009/2010 budget was $182 million dollars. The State Public School budget for fiscal year 2010 includes a decrease of 2.63% in salary-based apportionment for certified and classified, a 5% decrease for administration, and a decrease of the minimum teacher salary from $31,750 to $30,915.

2009/2010 enrollment was 34,309 students.

The Meridian School district has 31 elementary schools, nine middle schools and nine high schools.

Public Schools have several branches within them and receive their financing from local, state, and federal government funds. In most cases, they must admit all students who live within the borders of their districts.

Charter Schools began appearing in the early 90’s. They are autonomous, “alternative” public schools started by parents, teachers, community organizations, and for-profit companies. These schools receive tax dollars but the sponsoring group must also come up with private funding. Charter schools must adhere to the basic curricular requirements of the state but are free from many of the regulations that apply to conventional schools and the day-to-day scrutiny of school boards and government authorities.

Considered cutting edge, charter schools usually challenge standard education practices and sometimes specialize in a particular area, such as technology, the arts, or a back-to-basics core-subjects approach. Some charter schools are specifically for gifted or high-risk kids. They usually offer smaller classes and more individual attention than conventional public schools.

Magnet schools are highly competitive, highly selective public schools renowned for their special programs, superior facilities, and high academic standards. They may specialize in a particular area, such as science or the arts. Students who apply to these schools go through a rigorous testing and application process. Magnet schools were first launched in the late 1970’s to help desegregate public school systems by encouraging children to attend schools outside their neighborhoods. Student diversity is still an explicit goal of most magnet schools.

A magnet school is a school of choice, or a school within a school, designed around a unique instructional approach, area of emphasis, student population – even the school calendar. For example, the Meridian Joint School District offers art-based, math and science, math and technology, literacy and world language elementary school magnet choices.  Four schools, Chaparral, Spalding, Seven Oaks and Pioneer have a single-track year-round calendar.  Middle schools continue elementary magnet programs based on the feeder system.  The one exception is that there is not a year-round calendar middle school.

At the high school level, professional technical magnet programs are offered at the Meridian Professional Technical Center and at Renaissance High School.  Renaissance High School’s academic magnet program opened in Fall 2009 and will add 11^th grade starting this fall.  This program includes three academic focus areas: law and leadership, international studies and research and medical sciences.  Currently, Renaissance High School is a candidate for the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Program.

Pre-Engineering – Pre-engineering studies, thru Project Lead the Way, are offered at Mountain View High School, Rocky Mountain High School, and Galileo K-8.

New Professional-Technical Magnet Courses:

Architecture and Construction with courses in Masonry I, Residential Construction I, and Home Technology Integration I are available to students in grades 10 – 12.  Culinary Arts was initially offered in 2008-09, and expanded in the fall of 2009 to include students from the Boise School District.

2010-2011 Magnet Schools List

Challenge Gifted Program (Magnet)

The Challenge gifted magnet programs are designed for students who qualify for our pullout Challenge programs or students with a minimum of 130 full-scale IQ.  The Meridian School District curriculum is followed but students are presented skills at their appropriate readiness level and are expected to learn concept-based curriculum at a much greater depth of understanding with a greater emphasis on project-based learning.  The affective curriculum for gifted students is also provided to students in the magnet programs.

Elementary magnet programs are offered at Andrus Elementary and Siena K-8.  Middle school programs are offered at Siena K-8 and Lowell Scott Middle School.  Siena K-8’s information can be found on the elementary page.

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS

Lowell Scott Middle School
13600 W. McMillan Road, 
Boise, ID  83713

Andrus Elementary
6100 N. Park Meadow Way, Boise, ID        83713

Offers self-contained gifted classes for grades 3, 4, and 5

Siena K-8
2870 E. Rome Dr. 
Meridian, ID 83642

Offers self-contained gifted classes for grades 3-7.

Academy High Schools (Alternative)

The Meridian School District’s High School Academies offer a small-school environment for students in 9, 10, 11, and 12th grade that are at-risk of not succeeding at their current high school.

What puts a student at risk varies greatly be student. For some students, adapting to a larger school environment is simply overwhelming. Others may have learning or emotional issues that make school a greater challenge. Others may simply need more individualized instruction to spark their interest in learning.

The program at the district’s Academy High Schools are designed to keep students in high school while focused on graduation with a successful academic record. Students at Meridian Academy participate in student support groups, and are required to live up to the school’s high standards of behavior.

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS

Central Academy High School
6075 North Locust Grove,
Meridian, Idaho 83646

 (208) 855-4325

Meridian Academy High School
2311 E. Lanark Street,
Meridian, ID  83642

(208) 855-4315

Eagle Academy High School
100 S. Academy Avenue,
Eagle, ID  83616

(208) 350-4220

School Size:  Students in grades 9 through 12, with a maximum population of 150 students.

Admission:  Admission is determined by State established criteria on a case-by-case basis. To find out about admission, contact the school directly.

Alternative Middle Schools

Our magnet middle schools offer 7th and 8th grade students an environment that is smaller, provides one-on-one attention and more hands-on activities.

The need for these magnet schools comes from a variety of sources.  For some children, adapting to a larger school environment in 6th grade is simply overwhelming. Others may have certain personal issues that make school a greater challenge, thus needing more one-on-one attention from a teacher. Others may simply need more individualized instruction to spark their interest in learning.  Therefore, the student body is comprised of the entire range of students from those who have previously struggled to those who are identified as gifted academically.

The program at these schools is designed to help students meet grade level expectations and then excel in their academic pursuits. Students generally go on to attend one of the district’s traditional high schools, although a smaller percentage continues in an academy program in high school.

These schools serve approximately 150 students. Transportation is provided via shuttle buses from their traditional middle schools.

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS

Crossroads Middle School
650 N. Nola Road,
Meridian, ID  83642
Phone: (208) 887-6085
Web site: http://cms.meridianschools.org

Pathways Middle School
1855 E. Leighfield Drive,
Meridian, ID  83646
Phone: (208) 350-4040
Web site: http://pms.meridianschools.org

If technology is your passion there are numerous classes and accreditations available.

Meridian Technical Charter High School is one of the top technical high schools in the country. Students study every aspect of technology from media arts, networking and electronics/pre-engineering. They offer college classes, for college credits and require seniors to complete 280 hours of internships with Treasure Valley Businesses.

Idaho Virtual Academy is home based, tuition free classes that is accessed via an online school as well as more traditional methods. They partner with state certified teachers to guide and track progress. They serve all ages from kindergarten through 12th grade.

Neighborhood Schools are the public schools that have been around forever. They cover the basics but now offer many options with a future career in mind. Gone are the days of Home-ec for girls and Shop for boys.

Now there are classes available within high schools that can pave the road for a great career. Students can exit high school as a CNA—Certified Nursing Assistant or an automotive and collision repair technician. The science departments offer classes in such varied courses as: Anatomy, Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, and

Conceptual Physics,  Earth Science, Ecology, Forensics and 
Oceanography . Languages available go far beyond the Spanish, German and French that was available only a few years ago. Now you can also learn American Sign Language, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese and Latin.

Special needs children are afforded public funds beginning at age three. Because of the individual needs of these children each child’s education is based on their specific needs and abilities.

Idaho Virtual Academy (Charter)

IVA is a tuition free, online, home-based school.

While attendance, teacher interaction, and daily lessons are conducted online, the lessons use physical materials and offline tools as well. The school offers programs from kindergarten through 12^th grade. See www.k12.com/idva/ for more information.

Private Schools

Private schools rely on tuition payments and funds from non-public sources such as religious organizations, endowments, grants, and charitable donations. These schools select from among students who apply for admission. They may be coed or single sex. About 25 percent of the elementary and secondary schools in the United States are private.

Independent schools are private, non-profit schools governed by elected boards of trustees. This category includes such famous private schools as Andover and Exeter. Independent schools draw their funds from tuition payments, charitable contributions, and endowments rather than from taxes or church funds. They may be affiliated with a religious institution but cannot receive funds or governance from them. Of the 28,000 private schools in the United States, only about 1,500 are independent. About two-thirds of those are members of the National Association of Independent Schools, which means they have been accredited by a recognized state or regional body and have agreed to practice nondiscriminatory policies. Many accept boarding as well as day students. Private day schools generally cost from a few thousand to more than $10,000 per student per year, while a boarding school charges each student approximately $ 20,000 annually.

Parochial schools are church-related schools, most commonly owned and operated by Catholic parishes or dioceses but also by Protestant denominations. The academic curriculum at these schools is supplemented with required daily religious instruction and prayer. Teachers may be clergy or laypersons that may or may not be trained educators. Your child doesn’t have to be Catholic to attend a parochial school, but she will still be required to attend religious education classes and prayer services. Parochial schools generally cost between $ 1,200 and $ 2,400 per year for an elementary school student and between $ 4,600 and $ 7,500 for a high school student.

Proprietary schools are private schools that are run for profit. This is a relatively new category of school. They do not answer to any board of trustees or elected officials. Because of this they claim to be able to respond quickly to the demands of the market. Many belong to an organization called the National Independent Private Schools Association. Tuition is comparable to that of private, nonprofit schools.

Private Schools

Some of the private schools that serve the area:

ArtsWest

Eagle Adventist Christian School

Eagle Early Learning Center

Challenger School- Meridian

Cole Valley Christian – Meridian

The Ambrose School – Meridian

After School options vary from cooking, dance, music, etiquette, karate, gymnastics, special needs and more.

Some of Eagle’s private afterschool programs are:

The Landing Community Center

Creative Arts Campus at ArtsWest

Karate for Kids

Danik Gymnastics

Elevated Dance

Studio C

Eagle Performing Arts Center

School of Rock

Speech Tree

Young Chef’s Academy

Harmony Ranch Music School (all ages)

Some of the Preschools serving Eagle:

Eagle Montessori Center

Eagle Adventist Christian School

Cornerstone Children’s Center

New Horizon Child

The Land of Nod

A Child’s Life Learning Center

Eagle Wings Preschool

Cornerstone Children’s Center

A Child’s Life Learning Center

Eagle Seventh Day Adventist Preschool

Thanks to Shari Doke of Speech Tree and Gayle McKee of Harmony Ranch Music School for information on after school/private school opportunities

Sources: Babycenter.com

Meridianschools.org

K12.com

Although this new park is in Meridian, it will be a great asset to people all over the valley.  The generous gift of the Kleiner family will live on for generations.

Eugene Kleiner formally unveiled the Master Plan for the $25 million urban park he is gifting to the City of Meridian. The park is a tribute to his father, the late Julius M. Kleiner, who owned and farmed the land on which the new park is to be built.

The Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park will be located on a 60-acre site near the northeast corner of the Fairview Avenue and Eagle Road intersection in Meridian. The park property abuts the proposed Meridian Lifestyle Center, which will include premier retail, entertainment, restaurant and office space.

Park donor Eugene Kleiner explains, “My father had a deep attachment to the Treasure Valley, and a deep personal interest in farming for food production, as the basic occupation. He was committed to charity in general, and certain charities in particular, like the Mercy Medical Center in Nampa and the Salvation Army. This is my way of giving his cherished land back to him.”

The Master Plan is a conceptual outline for the park’s design. It is intended to provide direction on the look and feel of the park design, although it will be refined as it moves through further phases of design and construction.

The park is being designed and developed by the Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park Trust, comprised of Eugene Kleiner, Elden Gray, and Mike Huter. Once constructed, the family intends to donate the park to the City of Meridian to be operated and maintained as a city park.

Elden Gray says, “I knew Julius as an astute businessman with a passion for farming and food production. I managed the farm for him for 20 years, originally turning the land into a dairy farm, and I continue to oversee farming operations to this day.

I spent many years making the land flat for farming, and it’s full circle for me to see the park plan so full of rolling hills and large lakes. This is a once-in-a lifetime kind of opportunity, and I am proud to help Eugene realize this dream.”

Julius M. Kleiner, a life-long businessman and philanthropist, was born in 1892, and came to America from Russia in 1916. He moved to Idaho in the 1920’s and worked hard to establish a life for his family, including operating a local creamery and poultry business.

In 1944, he purchased the property where Kleiner Park will sit from the Morrison Knudson Company, who used it to store construction equipment and horses. Although Kleiner retired from the creamery business in 1952, he worked diligently to turn the land into a dairy farm, which it operated as until the 1970’s. He continued to live and oversee farm operations from his Treasure Valley home, until his death in 1972.

“As park trustee,” Mike Huter explains, “my role has been to help coordinate the land sale of the original 260 acres, and the establishment of the 60-acre park site. I have worked with the Kleiner family for 30 years, as a business advisor and friend, and am excited to see the park move forward. The total value of this generous gift is $25 million, which includes the park site, park amenities, infrastructure improvements, and the creation of a new home for the Meridian Senior Center and a Branch Library.”

Eugene Kleiner’s vision for this park is for it to be a heavily-treed urban park with large water features, rolling terrain, bicycle and pedestrian trail systems, and lots of open space for picnics and community gatherings. A band shell with amphitheatre will provide a beautiful setting for music and festivals. A formal Grand Plaza and Promenade will feature a memorial to his father.

“The Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park will be a great addition to our park system.  This turnkey project, where both the land and the improvements are being donated by the property owner, is a generous gift to the citizens of Meridian and the Treasure Valley.  It is also a great example of the giving spirit of our community,” says Meridian Mayor Tammy de Weerd.

She adds, “The caliber of generosity represented by this gift to our community, and the tribute it will pay to the Kleiner family patriarch, calls to mind the lasting legacies created by the families of Julia Davis, Ann Morrison, and Kathryn Albertson through the beautiful parks created and gifted to the public in their honor. Generations from now, the name Julius M. Kleiner will still be known, spoken, and appreciated in Meridian and beyond.”

Additional elements of the Master Plan include a grand entrance and parkway boulevard, a seven-acre arboretum and rose garden, a recreation complex, two large ponds, a boathouse, multiple picnic areas, a playground, a variety of public art, and two large parking areas.

“Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park will be a unique park in our park system. Other parks around the City focus on sports uses such as softball or soccer. The vision for this park is a heavily-treed urban park with large water features, rolling terrain, bicycle and pedestrian pathways, playgrounds, and lots of open space for picnics and community gatherings,” says Meridian Parks Director Steve Siddoway.  “From the amphitheater to the arboretum, it will be a place for families to come and spend the day relaxing, picnicking, playing, fishing, walking, or listening to music. You could even get a book from the library and sit and read it by one of the ponds. It will be a wonderful place to come and find respite from everyday life and at 60 acres it will be our largest developed park to date.”

The Julius M. Kleiner Park will also be home to the Meridian Senior Center and a branch of the Meridian Library. The Meridian Senior Center is proposed as a single-story 15,000 square-foot building with expansive views of the South Pond. A central courtyard will connect it to a new branch of the Meridian Library.

The Park Trust has retained Parametrix, a local planning and design firm, to lead development of the park. Award-winning landscape architects JensenBelts Associates, and Johnson Architects, who will design the park structures, complete the design team.

Now that the Meridian City Council has officially adopted the Master Plan, the project will move into Design Development. Park construction is expected to begin as early as 2010, with an anticipated opening of spring 2011. Construction of the park is dependent upon the availability of utilities and roadways that will also serve the adjacent lifestyle center.

For more information about the Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park Trust, please call Susan Graham at (208) 898-0012.

Inhalant abuse or “huffing” is very common among young adolescents, with some estimates as high as 17% of 8th graders. Although inhalant use is often difficult to detect, there may be chemical odors on the breath, skin, or clothes. Another indication of inhalant use is empty containers and rags or gauze in the trash. Additionally, the following are associated with inhalant use: mood swings, increased irritability and anger, uncontrolled laughter or violent outbursts, nosebleeds, increased salivation, facial rash or flushing, dilated pupils, bloodshot eyes, blisters near nose and mouth, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, coughing or sneezing, wheezing, headache, decrease or loss of sense of, slurred speech, hallucinations, disorientation, convulsions, lack of coordination, hand tremor, muscle weakness, and decreased reflexes.

What’s so dangerous about a can of spray paint or deodorant? Plenty. Huffing these and other common household products can provide a quick high. As harmless as it may seem to kids, the risks of huffing and other types of inhalant abuse are real — and potentially lethal.

What are inhalants?

Inhaling, or huffing can abuse more than 1,400 known substances. Creative addicts have been known to abuse products such as:

deodorant

candles

cooking spray

colored markers

Hair spray

Room deodorizer

Cleaning fluids

Spray paint

Paint thinner

Butane

Propane

Gasoline

What does it mean to huff an inhalant?

Huffing is sometimes used as a generic term for any type of inhalant abuse. Specifically, however, there are various ways to abuse inhalants:

Huffing. To huff an inhalant, you soak a rag in an inhalant and press the rag to your mouth.

Sniffing. To sniff an inhalant, you sniff or snort fumes from an aerosol container. You may even spray an aerosol product directly into your nose or mouth.

Bagging. To bag an inhalant, you inhale fumes from a product sprayed or poured into a plastic or paper bag.

At first, huffing, sniffing or bagging causes a sense of euphoria. Abusing the inhalant repeatedly over several hours can prolong or intensify the high. For many kids, inhalants provide a cheap and accessible alternative to alcohol — and it may happen more often than you think. In the United States alone, nearly 10 percent of adolescents ages 12 to 17 have used inhalants at some point, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

What are the risks of inhalant abuse?

The initial euphoria of huffing, sniffing or bagging may be followed by dizziness, slurred speech, and loss of coordination, inhibition and control. Some kids become agitated or irritable. Hallucinations and delusions are possible.

If an inhalant causes the heart to begin working too hard, a rapid, irregular heartbeat (dysrhythmia) may trigger lethal heart failure — even for first-time inhalers. Chronic inhalant abuse can cause weakness, fatigue, and serious liver and kidney damage. Permanent brain damage and hearing loss are possible as well.

Other devastating effects of inhalant abuse may include:

Suffocation, when inhalants displace oxygen in the lungs

Seizures

Loss of consciousness

Death

What are the warning signs of inhalant abuse?

Inhalant abuse can be easy to conceal. Look for these warning signs:

Hidden rags, clothes or empty containers of products that may be abused

Chemical odors on breath or clothing

Paint or other stains on face, hands or clothing

Slurred or incoherent speech

Lack of coordination

Inattentiveness

Irritability

What’s the best way to prevent inhalant abuse?

To prevent inhalant abuse, talk about it openly. For example:

Discuss the risks. Honest discussion can help prevent a tragedy. Talk about what products may be abused and slang terms for inhalants. State the facts clearly. Emphasize that inhalants are deadly chemicals, not a harmless way to get high.

Be a good listener. Encourage your child to come to you with questions or concerns.

Set expectations. Let your child know that you won’t tolerate huffing or other types of inhalant abuse. Remind your child that you love him or her — and safety comes first.

Stay involved. Meet your child’s friends. Know where your child is and what he or she is doing, especially after school. Support your child’s efforts to resist peer pressure.

What if I find my child huffing?

If you discover your child huffing, sniffing or bagging, stay calm. If your child is breathing, move to a well-ventilated area and call the local poison control center. If your child is unconscious or not breathing, seek emergency medical help.

If your child has been abusing inhalants for some time, withdrawal symptoms — sleep disturbances, irritability, nausea, vomiting, sweating, rapid heartbeat, hallucinations or delusions — are possible.

If your child can’t stop huffing, sniffing or bagging on his or her own, seek professional help. Start with your child’s doctor, a school counselor or a local drug rehabilitation facility. The support of a mental health professional may be valuable as well. With help, your child can end inhalant abuse and learn how to make healthy choices for a lifetime.

Gases – propane tanks, whipped cream bottles

Aerosols – hair spray, computer cleaner, spray paint

Volatile solvents – gasoline, felt-tipped marker liquid, glue, paint thinner

source: edrugrehab.com

Mom and Dr. Wright talked a lot about shots.  They decided that because I don’t go to a groomer or get boarded I could skip Bordatella. Whew, one down!  Turns out I only needed one shot, rabies. I guess it’s the law and I can’t be too careful.  Before I knew it, it was done; I didn’t even feel it, all that shaking and it didn’t even hurt.  They talked a lot about heartworm too. Yikes! That sounds really nasty. Dr. Wright said that after so many dogs were sent here from Katrina (not sure what that is) that the disease came with them.  It travels via mosquitoes and we sure have a ton of them around here so I would rather be safe than sorry.  They took some blood, and I was really good while they did, it really didn’t hurt much. Turns, out I am just fine.  Now I will take medicine once a month to make sure I won’t ever get heartworms—ew.

Next they took my temperature, I don’t even want to talk about that—one word: Rude!

Then they trimmed my nails. I have to admit I am not very proud of how I acted when they did that, but I have very sensitive feet. I hope Hannah will forgive my bad behavior.

Dr. Wright checked my teeth and said I could use a cleaning in about 6 months. I have had that done before but it’s all foggy. I must have slept right through it. They decided that when I go in for my teeth cleaning I am going to be micro-chipped.  It sounds pretty cool. They insert a rice-sized chip into my ear. The microchip has a special number that is registered to Mom and Eagle Animal Clinic. If were to get separated from Mom, they could scan me and then bring me home.

Up until last week I really didn’t ever worry about getting lost but I went out to potty really late the other night and ended up totally lost! I was on a very busy street and really scared. Luckily two cars saw me; pulled over and read my tag. They called Mom and she came and took me home.  I always thought that bling on my neck was to look good, turns out; it has Mom’s phone number on it—genius!  Mom was so happy to have me back home; I snuggled in close to her all night. I have not left the yard since. Now there is a man building a fence so we won’t have to worry about that again.

Once we got home I got my favorite; banana Popsicle. I am sleepy now and ready to have a nice nap. It’s been a long day.

A word from Dr. Wright:

Many health problems start in the mouth.  Plaque, tartar, periodontal disease, and infected teeth serve as a source of inflammation and infection for the rest of the body.  There are many ways that dog and cat owners can help their veterinarian provide a healthy mouth for their pet.  Information about dental diets, brushing the pet’s teeth, and appropriate chew toys can be found on our website.  Eagle Animal Clinic will be offering a Dental Special during February and March.  This is a great opportunity to have your pet’s teeth cleaned and get a 10% discount on pre-anesthetic blood work, anesthesia, ultrasonic cleaning and polishing of teeth, and extractions if needed.   You can give your pet better health, greater comfort, and a cleaner smile.

www. eagleanimalclinic.com

435 South Eagle Road, Suite 2

(208) 938-3383

Women

Today started out great, Mom was busy packing up blankets, chairs, snacks and towels. Clearly a road trip was in store! (Pretty much my favorite.) I did my spin around happy, happy, happy we are leaving dance and away we went (it works every time.)

I napped in the back seat, soaking up the sun and listening to our favorite band, Aerosmith. Before I knew it the doors flew open and we were off— well, almost. First she pulled out the long forgotten lifejacket and once again I was being carted around like a carry on bag.  There were lots of big dogs around and at first it was quite humiliating. Then, I noticed they too, were wearing lifejackets, of course they were walking, like normal dogs. Apparently, the handle is to SAVE my life if I end up in the river— not a handy way to move me from point A to point B.

Would someone please let Mom in on this important detail?

We headed to the river; not the calm, poke-your-paws-in-water, water that I prefer, but whitewater! This is no place for a Chihuahua, trust me, just point me to the beach and find me when you are done.

The big dogs were alI wagging their tails and carrying on. They seemed to know their place and waited for the right command to hop in the raft.  I, on the other hand turned tail and headed to the amphitheater. I’ll just assume my position on a nice lap, really, buh-bye! Yea, right. Just as I turned to leave, Mom picked me up by the handle again and our tour began.

As it turns out, the lifejacket was just a prop. Mom knew, by my shaking (hey it was cold) that I was not up for this one.

We walked around the park and took in all of the beauty.

Osprey were fishing and soaring above to their nearby nests, high above the park. (It did occur to me that this handle would have made it even easier to make me their next meal.)  Kayakers were launching, kids were running around playing and folks visited with the friendly park rangers.

My real dad, Leo, (mom’s dad) used to bring me to Cascade to camp and it really made me miss him. I loved to sit on Dad’s lap and help him keep an eye on the fire, oh, and no one likes a weenie roast more than me. Mmm, a fire-roasted weenie would be great right about now… I digress, back to the park.

Kelly’s Whitewater Park opened June 14^th and is in memory of Kelly Brennan who died tragically in a 1997 car accident. Kelly’s sister and brother in law, Kristina and Mark Pickard had the park built for all to enjoy for free. It has five water features for kayak enthusiasts to learn and play in. Tubers, rafters and canoeists of all ages and abilities can enjoy the park too.

There is a welcome center with seating made out of logs and huge windows to take in the view. There are also historical displays of the people, industry and life of old Cascade.

Hans Borbonus, a Donnelly resident, donated 3.4 acres of riverfront property for the park and worked with Cascade Mayor Dick Carter to see the park become a reality.

The park is designed for competitions and has plenty of parking and seating for onlookers. Right now the water is so high that the man made island is underwater. Once the water level drops bridges will be put in place and there will be bleachers on the island for up close viewing.

To get there, take 55 north. Turn right just before the railroad tracks in Cascade.  You can see more about the park and events at www.kellyswhitewaterpark.com

Hope to see you on the river this summer, by on the river I mean, on the beach! Just look for the redhead in the lime green lifejacket.

O’Malley

Smarter than the AVERAGE bear!

Even Yogi knows the best places to fill a pic-i-nic basket!

The Kitchen

The kitchen now open in the Eagle City Market Place at

3210 E Chinden and is offering a fantastic opportunity to make every summer day a perfect day for a picnic.

Featuring: Choice of BBQ Beef Brisket or BBQ Baby Back Ribs

BBQ sauce, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Coleslaw, always homemade; a meal you will be proud to serve to your family.  Be sure to check our website for more picnic ideas.  www.thekitchenboise.com or call us with your ideas at 939-6678.

China Palace

No need to plan ahead for an impromptu picnic for  two, stop in the China Palace for  2 items and 2 drinks for $9.99.

Stroll across the street and enjoy your lunch at the park.

625 E State Street 939-8938

Bella Aquila

We Can pack most of our menu to go so you can enjoy Bella Aquila in your favorite setting.  Choose from our extensive wine list and exquisite Italian cuisine.

Our entire menu is online at bellaaquilarestaurant.com

775 South Rivershore Lane 938-1900

Wild West Bakery & Espresso

We have everything you need for a great picnic!  Choose from sandwiches, salads, cookies, cream cheese brownies, lemon bars and our world famous sticky buns!  Refreshing drinks include fruit smoothies, iced espresso drinks, milkshakes, Italian sodas and more!

83 East State Street 939-5677

Zen Bento

A Picnic Perfect meal.

Zen Bento means “Peace in a Lunchbox”.
The teriyaki style meals have been designed for grab and go which means picnic perfect!

From bikers and river floaters, heading up to McCall or simply walking across the street to Heritage Park … Zen Bento meals are the perfect meal to take along!  Simple, tasty and easy.

Pack your basket with one of our delicious chicken or beef teriyaki rice bowls or our popular Zen Salad.  Vegetarian options are also available.   Grab an ice-cold beverage, a yummy cookie and you’re good to go!
342 East State Street 938-4277

Ahi Sushi Bar

What could be more decadent and impressive than an impromptu sushi picnic? Bring your cooler and place your order fresh to go.

Or call ahead, 938-FISH (3474) 1193 East Winding Creek

Entire menu online at www.ahisushibar.com

Season’s  has all of your picnic needs this summer… including the basket. They feature affordable bottles of wine, homemade salads, sandwiches, cheeses, butcher’s plates, specialty desserts and much more. Call Rachel at Seasons to help pack your perfect picnic whether going to the Shakespeare Festival, enjoying the music at the Botanical Gardens or just stealing away for that perfect afternoon by the river or at your favorite park.   939-6680  1117 East Winding Creek

Porterhouse

Where to start? Baby back ribs, Kansas City brisket, pulled pork, handcrafted specialty sandwiches, choose from our great selection of homemade deli and green salads. Huge selection of wine, cold beer and soft drinks, bring your cooler and fill’er up!

Please give 2 hours notice and 24 hours for 10 or more meals.

We can pack up anything on the menu for your next outing. Check out the menu at porterhousemarket.com

Free delivery (within 5 miles of the market) with $50 order. Deliveries from 11:30 to 2:00 PM

600 South Rivershore Lane, 938-1441 or fax us at 938-3985

Busters

Stop by Buster’s for a fresh made sandwich or wrap.

Choose from Chicken Club, Buffalo Chicken, Chicken Caesar or Turkey Avocado Bacon Ranch Wrap, add house salad, coleslaw or potato salad and you are good to go. Call ahead or just stop by. 938-1800 1396 East State Street

Visit busterseagle.com for our entire menu online.

The Blue Moose

Try any of our house specialties for your next picnic.

Call ahead and your lunch will be waiting!

The Blue Moose

Toasted sourdough stacked high with turkey, ham, bacon and smoked Gouda. Topped with lettuce, tomato, red onion and mayo.

Catalina Club

Turkey, bacon, swiss cheese, avocado, tomato, lettuce and mayo grilled on our delicious garlic cheese bread.

California Club

Turkey, ham, bacon, swiss cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato, onion and mayo grilled on our golden sourdough bread.

The Blue Moose Maytag Salad

Our signature salad! Crisp romaine lettuce, craisins, diced apples and chunks of bleu cheese, sprinkled with a special crunch topping and tossed with bleu cheese dressing.

939-3079 79 East Aikens Road  11- 3 PM

Sunday 12:00 – 6:00 PM

Entire menu available at bluemoosecafe.net

Picnic tips!

Always keep cold food cold and hot food hot!

Bacteria grow in the food temperature danger zone of 41 to 140 degrees. Keep ice for drinks separate in a zip lock bag or air- tight bowl in the cooler.

Check list (please make like a list with boxes to check)

Tablecloth

Napkins

Utensils

Garbage bag

Plates

Cups

Condiments

Corkscrew (wine glases)

Can opener

Blanket

Chairs

Bug spray

Sunscreen

Wet wipes

Paper towels

Water

Picnic basket

Food

If you are grilling remember:

Charcoal, fuel, matches, spatulas

Women’s golf July 2010

With some of the best white water rafting and kayaking anywhere on earth, more natural hot springs that you can ever experience, hiking, horseback riding, fishing and swimming holes to choose from I had to hone in on one…..right? Well, I gave it a go and it just can’t be done. So, instead I have compiled information on my favorites. The websites from the US Department of Parks, Idaho’s Parks Department and Idaho Fish and Game are incredible resources for information and planning your get away.

I have camped in tents, trailers, rustic cabins with no running water and cabins that are more like luxury resorts—the only requirement; being in a beautiful mountain location. I grew up in Idaho and after spending EVERY family vacation in the mountains, I retired from the activity for over 20 years. I even announced (in a pathetic online single’s ad) that ‘camping in the Hilton’ was my preference. Funny, in Idaho, when you make a statement like that, the phone doesn’t ring off the hook.

Years later, and long after my days on single’s sites I married a  fellow, non-camper. Last summer, on a whim Robert and I decided to give it a go. We bought camping gear on Craigslist and proceeded to pack up our little Mercedes with two dogs and our new collection of survival gear, food and adult beverages.

We asked friends about the best nearby places to camp; took a vote and found a great campsite next to the Payette River and within walking distance to some hidden hot springs.

Upon arrival, O’Malley, the ever, social one, quickly wandered to the next camp ground in search of a suitable lap. Our old dog, Willy curled up in the tent on a mound of blankets and assumed his position, seemingly oblivious to the new surroundings. We put our tent up in a matter of minutes— one improvement for sure—it used to take an engineering degree to accomplish, and could evoke a husband/wife argument only rivaled by the annual, “putting up the Christmas tree fight,” amazingly, the new tent, popped itself upright. After setting up camp, we toured the campground and found running water, a bathroom and trails leading to the hot springs. Our camp was next to the river and I was already looking forward to falling asleep to that long forgotten, soothing sound.

Sitting next to the campfire that first night took me back to my childhood. I found myself missing my dad more than usual. He was the fire master and was the first one up to build the fire for coffee in the morning and the last one to bed, snuffing out the last ashes.  The kids spent time rotating our chairs to avoid the smoke, joking about smoke following beauty and attempting to roast the perfect marshmallow.

We spent a wonderful peaceful weekend along the Payette.

Now, we are just hoping that summer arrives in Idaho so we can head out again. As tempting as it is to return to that wonderful slice of Idaho, we need to explore more of this incredible land, so the search is on for our next Idaho get-away.

Activities:

White water raft/kayaking on the Payette, Salmon or Snake River

Camp in the Payette or Boise National Forest

Geo cache

Hot Springs, hike in with a picnic

Canoe, paddle, hike at Red Fish Lake,

Boat/water ski on the Snake River (near Hagerman)/ Payette Lake/ Lucky Peak/Cascade Reservoir

Hike everywhere

Mountain Bike at ski resorts… Bogus, Sun Valley, Brundage

Fish: Lakes, Rivers, Streams…from kid friendly Penny Lake near Ketchum to master fishermen of the mighty Steelhead at Riggings

A few of my favorites:

Whitewater Thrills

Idaho has over 3100 miles of whitewater and 570 designated National, Wild, Scenic or Recreational Rivers

If you have never been white water rafting you are missing out! Thrill seekers from all over the world travel to Idaho for the best white water experience available anywhere. It’s all right here in our backyard!

For a truly memorable experience call a reputable rafting company and ask lots of questions. They take safety seriously and provide all the necessary equipment and training to get you down the river safely.

Decide how long you want to go, a few hours or a several days? What is your budget? Consider everyone in your group and make sure of the capabilities of each person.

Pack for a day trip: disposable water camera, water shoes, sunscreen, towels, sunglass straps and quick drying clothes. Remember, everything gets wet, so leave your wallet, phone etc locked up.

Depending on your experience the ‘best’ rafting in Idaho varies greatly. Although everyone has their favorite based on their ability, the Cabarton on the Payette is top pick for groups of most ages and ability.  Staircase on the South Fork of the Payette is my favorite so far, but there is so much I have yet to experience.

With names like Bronco Billy, Tight ‘n Right, Grim Reaper and Bodacious Bounce, there is surely a thrill awaiting you on one of Idaho’s amazing rivers!

There is a scale of difficulty for rafting/kayaking that ranges from 1, being the easiest to navigate to 6, which indicates the water is impassable and the boat should be carried. These pertain to particular rapids on a river. So any given river can have many different classifications within it.

If you don’t want to hit the water there are great places along the Payette soak up some sun and watch the action from a great river beach. Many are fee areas and cost $5 per day or $40 per year. To purchase online go to: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/annualpassportpurchase.aspx

Or call 334-4199

Rapids Classifications

Although the determination of class is subjective these descriptions are generally accepted.

Class I

Easy: Moving water with small riffles and waves. Risk is slight; most can do this on their own with little instruction. Self-rescue is easy.

Class II

Novice: Rapids are straightforward with wide, clear channels. Rocks or obstructions are easily missed with minimum maneuvering by trained paddlers.

Class III

Intermediate: Rapids are moderate with irregular waves which are difficult to avoid. Complex maneuvering is required to avoid capsizing. Experienced paddlers can avoid most danger. Large waves and/or strainers may appear. Strong currents can make self-rescue difficult. Scouting is advised for inexperienced paddlers.

This is where true whitewater begins.

Class IV

Advance: Powerful but predictable rapids. Precise handling in turbulent waters. May have large unavoidable waves or rapids. Constricted passage may demand very quick maneuvering. Rapids may flip a raft. Swims may be long and violent. Risk to injury is a great possibility. Assistance is usually required if capsized.

Class V

Expert: Extreme conditions; long, difficult, violent rapids. Unavoidable waves and obstructions. Steep holes and/or drops. Demanding maneuvers that come quickly before difficult passageways. Risks are high for injury and even death. Note: there are different degrees of Class V rapids. AWA.org has added another layer of classification strictly for the Class 5 rapids and rivers. 5.1, 5.2 etc with each level becoming as difficult as going from Class 4 to 5.

Class VI

Exploratory: The river or route is one of extreme difficulty. Mostly exploratory where danger is unpredictable. Consequence of errors may result in severe injury, life-threatening situations or even death. Many past Class 6 routes have been changed to Class 5 due to technological advancements in equipment. Also, the level of expertise has evolved over the past 10 years where some rapids which were deemed to be un-runnable, are now run with regularity by experts.

Source: Raftwet.com

The water flow can affect the rating throughout the season.

FISH ON!

Idaho Fish and Game has an all-inclusive website with interactive tools to help you plan the perfect fishing trip.

Simply type the name of the water you are interested on fishing.

For instance when we typed in  ’Cascade’ that brought up all waters in Idaho with ‘Cascade’ in the name. From there, we chose; ‘Reservoir’ (locals know it’s not a lake!)

The site then shows details and links that include:

An interactive map with a key that lists everything you could ever need to know about the geography. From nearby towns, tribal lands, wilderness areas, elk zones…. The list goes on and on.

County: Valley

Access: Within a quarter mile of paved road

Stream flow/lake level information: 101%

(As of June 17^th)

General Rules and Seasons: Details of the rules and regulations and any exceptions to the rules.

Facilities: Boat Ramp, Docks, Toilets, Campground, ADA Access/no

Past 5 years stocking history: Over 100,000 in 2010 alone!

List of recommended target game fish species: Bullhead Catfish, Coho Salmon, Crappie, Kokanee, Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Tiger Musky, Yellow Perch. Click on a species to see pictures and descriptions. From there follow the link to the Fisheries Society page to learn more about the species.

To buy a license:

From the main page click the link for licenses and tags. You can purchase your license online, by phone with a credit card  by calling 800-554-8685, or in Eagle at North Channel Chevron, 503 South Eagle Road, 939-3900

Fishing license cost for residents $25.75

Juniors 14-17 Years $13.75

Senior hunting/fishing combo $$11.75

CAMP

“That there’s an RV, Clark!”

There are about as many ways to camp as places to chose to camp.

Tent

Cabin/Yurt (rent)

RV (rent or buy)

Cabin (mooch)

Printable list of camping supplies can be found at:

www.Coleman.com or www.camping.about.com

We always look for a quiet place away from the road, close by river access, potties (since we tent camp) and trails. Most campgrounds have a picnic table and grill onsite. Buying firewood is expensive so pack it in or bring a saw/hatchet.

Resources:

Fishing resources, maps and regulations http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/

http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/index.aspx

For maps of campgrounds, cabin, yurt and campground online reservations

http://gorptravel.away.com/rafting-guide/idaho/payette-river.html

Follow this link for a great tool to plan your trip

http://www.recreation.gov

To search nationwide campgrounds in National Forests, online maps, booking availabilities and facilities.