Banter Box

You couldn't get the support from your community? really? That's what you want to tell us? ...and now we can get that from a BOX!!!!

Thank you Sara.....long time no see. We've been waiting because somehow we knew you would show up with the right awnsers. Have a good day ma'am.

Bob Benbough passed away 15 May 2013 R.I.P.

Brenda, Are we going to get a response as to why the comment section was removed on the lead story?

That is how the newspaper in this town works. It's like Brenda is a dictator trying to control what we can and can't say.

That's ok, luckily there are other news sites that actually report the NEWS when it happens.

What happened to the comment section on your lead story? To many people saying things that you dont like?

Pretty sure nobody should be shooting towards the road...and Ive lived here 37 years...seen one far down Hot Creek and 2 on Canyon Creek Road. They are definetly out there.

But then again, in 15 years I have only seen a coyote twice.

My husband and i along with our 2 boys were nearly shot last year at the Eureka Caves when 2 kids were shooting towards the road as were were walking to the cave. It was scary. Needless to say my husband lost his mind on those kids. I have seen wolves further down hot creek rd in the past, I have a lab who will run and we lose sight of him for a while and i just wont take the chance. But he sure does love the Idaho desert :) Who doesnt!!!!

Be very very careful taking your dog out into the desert to run...there are wolves all over this area. Even on Hot Creek Road. I wont take my dog out like that anymore. They dont stand a chance.

Does anyone know if there is an off lease dog area in Mountain Home? The Base has an old softball field they use. I would like to find an enclosed place where the pup can burn off some energy, walks help, but the pup needs to run.

I would be upset also. That is one thing I teach my kids, when you are in a cross walk. Move at a brisk (not run) pace. There is no reason to be in the middle of the street longer than you have to. Just because you stopped doesnt mean everyone will.

The dogs riding in the back of the pick up was just a bad idea all together. And our dog did not jump out, she actually fell according to the man that was behind my boyfriend and that sat with our dog till he got back to her. As hunting dogs, our labs have always gotten so excited and loaded up in the back of the truck, but after this sad and EXPENSIVE experience that has got to change. Happy to say our dog had a 6 hour surgery yesterday and has rods and pins on the outside of her leg for the next 8 weeks, but the surgeon says she will heal quickly because she is young, and she'll be back to her bird hunting self in no time and will have no permanent damage. I've been thinking about this a lot the past few days and my dogs are like my children. I would NEVER put my children in the back of the truck so why would I put the dogs in the back? This accident was no ones fault, but my boyfriend and I are beating ourselves up over it. Please learn from out mistake and think before you load the dogs up for an outing.

Danimarie85 - It's wonderful that your pet will be okay. I hope everyone reads your post and will stop loading up the dogs and heading out. May I suggest you also send it in a letter to the Mountain Home News so that those who do not have a computer can read it?

I also hope that people will remember that if it's hot out, animals should stay home, NOT be left in the car or walked on hot cement. If they like to ride in the car, that's all good and well, take them for a ride around the block, take them to a place where they can run in the grass, not on a hot surface that can and will burn their paws.

Already it has started with dogs left in the car while people shop and it's going to get worse.

Danimarie85 Glad you pet is going to be OK. This truck riding while loose is so common. This type of accident happens a lot. What bothers me is when I see a passel of young children riding in the back of pickups. Not good!

Itsjustme: I think Maybeso was commenting on the Grinde's situation, not the deceased soldier.

Whatever its ok as long you can call someone a name thats pathetic and its not pretty

It was really nice to see so many people turn out to support Chris Carriers' family today and to show respects for him.

The family of Chris Carrier has requested that no one go to protest if the people from that supposed church DO show up.

I hope nothing goes on, it's a shame that these people are unable to see that they are not doing God's work at all. Satan has them all by the hands and hearts and he's winning their souls!!!!!!!!

Send them to Grindes

The Mountain Home High School Girls Soccer team will be holding a car wash today at Les Scwhab (1100-1800)today april 26th. The team will be atending a college camp this summer at ISU. All donations will towards the girls fees.

So if your car needs a bath before this nice weekend.

Let these ladies take care of that chore for you and help them work for donations and not just ask for free money.

I miss the Big Onion. Those were some good burgers, shakes and fries. Oh, and onion rings!

mrl83, We apologize for the inconvenience, however the link for some reason just doesn't work. We are trying to find a better way to share the information.

My family and I go to Grinde's for ice cream. That's about it. The food is tasteless, the service of late has been awful and they nickel and dime you for EVERYTHING. No refills, really? Charge for to go cups or containers? Extra toppings? Good Lord! Everything everyone else said is correct, Sharon's a pip, those poor waitresses are treated like dirt, they do not ring up customers or touch the register. My daughter also worked there during the short skirt/white shirt phase and the amount of crap they HAD to do before they went home was insane. She also had to use the payphone outside after midnight, no matter what the weather. The waitress probably did tell the manager, but her manager, being in true form, did nothing for her customer. Just a tip; happy and trained employees make happy customers. In the meantime, I'll stay the heck away also.

There you have it, Junkyardog, good way to deal with it. If someone pokes you with a stick every time you go into a room, you can either go into the room and get poked again, or you can stop going into the room.

Some people just like to be poked with sticks so they can complain later that they are getting poked with a stick.

Missylynn,

Sounds like you eat out way too much. Try preparing some meals at home. A "tip" to you from me:)

Missylyn, you are the one keeping this from being a dead subject. Why was it ok for you to print Sharon's name but not vice versa. If you want to make complaints, why not go to the source and work it out as adults? If you are that unhappy there then I just wouldn't give them my business. If I'm that unhappy with a business, I just don't go there. Simple way to work that out, that way they won't get your money! I personally have never had any problems there and they are all super nice! Sorry you had a problem.

Complete, coherent sentences, please. Nice to know there is someone in Mt. Home to tell everyone how to act and what to do.

Just to chime in on the Grinde's issue, I have lived here for nearly 20 years and rarely go there anymore. Unfortunately, quality of food and service have both been going downhill for a while. I sent an iced tea back once because it tasted terrible and was told by the server I would be charged for it anyway, they did not remove an item from the check due to 'personal taste'. I was shocked, but I stood my ground and was brought a new drink at no extra charge.

I suspect one of the problems they are having is that the increase in food costs for businesses have made it very expensive to waste what should not be served. I think the service problem is just a cycle, we accept poor service so often, we are used to it and because we accept it, the kids doing the serving don't learn they are delivering unacceptable service. Grinde's isn't the only one, it happens everywhere. All restaurants should regularly refresh training and service expectations. Good service can save a bad meal, but it doesn't work the other way around.

With the explosion happening in Texas,do we have anything similiar in storage in these silos around M.H. that are explosive hazards?

I bet most of the people had no idea the explosive potential of their neighbor.

Thank you Crew25! I share your thoughts as well!

Itsjustmeagain,

I do not agree that the roommate was out of line, the waitress was informed that the food was not acceptable and nothing was done to appease the situation, it seems the waitress did drop the ball on this one. I would have expected the food to be replaced or compensated for, it was mentioned that the roommate frequents Grindes perhaps an in store credit should have been issued.

People seem to be complaining more these days because so many businesses offer such poor customer service. I do understand that some do complain just to complain but I believe in this situation the customer should have been shown better service, I do agree that the manager should have been contacted. It also seems that the customer went out of his/her way to make amends when he/she returned to tip the waitress.

MissyLynn, while Sharon was out of line to do what she did, since giving tips in optional, your room mate was equally out of line. The waitress is NOT to blame for the food that comes out of the kitchen. I can't imagine being penalized for something someone else did, I would be down right offended if that happened to me.

If there was a problem with the food, your room mate should have immediately called it to the attention of the waitress and then if there was nothing done, asked for the manager.

While I can agree that the quality of the food at Grinde's isn't as good as some other places, I have never had bad service there and I have lived here my entire life and when they had the Onion drive in, I used to go there as a teenager.

It seems to me that people just want to complain these days and not do anything about what they are complaining about. Take steps to correct things before just walking away from them and see if you better results, another time.

Ok Patrick, 89% came across the southern boarder, by your stats. It still seems to me that, thats the reason so much emphasis is put on it.

Idahowantswolves:

I love that we have wolves here in the great state of Idaho. But they do need to be managed with hunting and trapping.

Idahowantswolves...

The Saudi Military should be welcomed here as they are elsewhere in the United States. When I went for training years ago in Virginia, there was a small populous of Saudi military members that were there doing the same exact training as I was and they were just as professional as any other foreign service that I have had the pleasure of serving with. It is your fear and classification of others that is disturbing. What the Saudi military would provide to this community is exposure to other cultures and financial gains for the town in the way of jobs and money spent. It is your closed mindedness that is seen by many outside of Idaho that gives the aura that Idaho is nothing more than a backwoods racist state. Open your eyes up and realize that just because someone is Arabic and practices a different faith than you does not make them terrorists.

I am not at all surprised that you experienced this bad service at Grinde's. Good for you for speaking about it!!

My opinion,

The prices are rediculous, service is ok sometimes, it is frustrating watching the poor girls who have to wait for the "Cashier" because they aren't trusted to work there and ring up customers themselves. I am sure they are far underpaid for what their job description is. The place is far to crowded, a person can barely walk to the restroom with all the crap in the way, not to mention there isn't room for a family to eat at a booth with all the stuff on the tables.

I always here locals (and I am a local)crying to shop local, this is exactly why people don't. Just because we are a small town and most places are locally, family owned doesn't give them the right to treat customers that way.

Just my nickels worth :)

Mabye its the confirmed 12 million illegals that came across the southern boarder. I would say thats why the emphasis is on the southern boarder.

Missylynn,

In this instance I would have spoken to management had my meal been less than satisfactory, sometimes it is necessary to go beyond the person waiting on you. I do believe that if the service is not up to par that little or no tip will be left, unfortunately some establishments seem to think that the tip is automatically expected regardless of quality of service. I also believe that it is time for businesses get back to understanding that it is the people that frequent their establishments that keep them in business, time for them to go out of their way to express gratitude to those who help keep them in business, and more importantly have employees greet those people with a smile and some kindness.

Went to Grinde's for dinner tonight (an establishment I never go to), but I caved because the roomate loves the place until this evening. We ordered an appetizer then our meals, now I've never heard my roomate say one bad thing about the food there, he ordered fish & chips and explained to the waitress that is food was not that good. We paid the bill and left, what happened next was absolutely ridiculous and nothing I've ever experienced, sharon grinde followed us out asking why my roommate didn't tip the waitress......when my roomate explained that he was not happy with the heat and taste of his food she proceeded to tell him that the waitress shouldn't be punished....... I'll give her that its not the waitress' fault that the cook's preparation of food was poor, however, GRINDE sure as heck wasn't offering my roommate to take away the charge of his nasty meal..... my roommate went to the gas station and got $5 took it back Grinde's and handed it directly to the waitress.... Sharon Grinde what you did was absolutely rude and you should be ashamed of yourself, if you are going to chastise a paying customer for not tipping your waitresses, listen to that customer explains to you your food taste not as good as it normally does you should take the charge off the bill...... my roomate was the bigger person and offered a tip about 12% which is more than I would have given you may want to remember that with out customers you wouldn't have a business

Does anyone know of a hostage situation on North 18th East last night (04/14/13).

A little history on anti gun Bloomberg and his "Posse" of Mayors against the 2nd amendment rights of Americans:

1] Sheila Dixon, Baltimore, Md- Convicted of perjury and embezzling funds meant for charity!

2] Richard Corkley, Coaldale, Pa- Convicted of child pornography and bail violations!

3] Frank Melton, Jackson, Ms- Convicted of violating his own cities gun possession law!

4] Larry Langford, Birmingham, Al- convicted of 60 counts of bribery, fraud & tax evasion!

5] Gary Becker, Racine, Wi- Convicted of attempted child molestation and luring a child for

illicit purposes!

6] David Donna, Guttenberg, Nj- Convicted of extortion and tax fraud!

7] Kwame Kilpatrick, Detroit, Mi- Convicted of assault on a police officer and perjury!

8] Pat M. Ahumada Jr, Brownsville, Tx- Arrested 3 times for driving while intoxicated!

9] Roosevelt Dorn, Inglewood, Ca- Pled guilty to public corruption and embezzlement

charges!

10] Tony Mack, Trenton, Nj- Recently charged for accepting $119,000 in bribes!

11] Adam Bradley, White plains, Ny- Convicted of domestic violence charges!

12] Buddy Cianci, Providence, Ri- Convicted of assault and racketeering!

13] Gordon Jenkins, Monticello, Ny- Pled guilty on 5 counts of trademark counterfeiting!

14] April Almond, East Haven, Ct- Arrested and charged with interfering with a police officer!

15] Eddie Perez, Hartford, Ct- Convicted of bribery and extortion!

16] Will Wynn, Austin, Tx- Convicted of assault!

17] Samuel Rivera, Passdale, Nj- Convicted of extortion and accepting bribes!

18] Jeremiah Healy, Jersey City, Nj- Convicted of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest!

These are some very holesome people, aren't they?

Free Thinker;

Is there anything in my post the indicates that I think that adults and children are on the same level? Or that just because a coach uses tobacco products doesn't mean they can't lead their team to win a championship? I don't think so. However, when the dust settles, people will remember more about what you did than what you said.

The definition of hypocrisy: The practice of professing beliefs, feelings or virtues that one does not hold or possess, falseness. An act or instance of such falseness.

So, again, just because you CAN, doesn't mean you SHOULD. My statement indicates that I'm aware that the coaches, as adults, CAN, but I know that they probably SHOULDN'T. Kind of like that Bill Engvall joke when he catches his kid hitting another kid, smacks him and says, "We don't hit."

If more people lead by example, how great would that be? In that instance, you CAN and you SHOULD.

My last word on this subject. If anyone doesn't get it by now, they probably won't with me explaining it.

Don't you have to be a certain age to buy tobacco products now (18 yr). But thats not why I'm posting. I just looked at my city services bill(water,trash and sewer) and noticed it went up around 10%. I thought this recycle deal was to help keep trash cost down as they are making money from resale. Water/sewer goes up every year either by percent or the way its calculated. And those of us on fixed income get 2 percent COLA if we behave. I know its not a lot of money now but at this rate it'll double in 7 years and be close to a $100 a month for basic service not counting summer water usage.

The city needs to stop these increases.

Yank-so the players have to obey rules the coaches don't? Do as I say not as I do? Funny how only one kid has got kicked off for chewing when a bunch of them are doing it.

Rocklady all I can say is, wow! I am saddened by your experiences in our town. I sincerely hope you can find some positive assistance through the Chamber.

Our Easter was a fun, family day! I hope you and yours was too!

These are different days, when the schools have a zero tolenance for tobacco and I have seen in the past that the players have had to sign a contract.

I myself am kinda old school and believe in one warning and maybe a few extra laps, before kicking the kid off.

And the coaches are not allowed to chew themselves. All of East side park is a tobacco free zone. Even as a fan you are not allowed to partake.

McCallumS- Thank you for your remarks several days ago in my defense by the way. I absolutely agree with your viewpoint...something has to give, and we are seeing evidence of that these past few years.

Getreal- Thank you for the suggestion, it is definitely a good one that any new resident should follow. Perhaps when things slow down for me I will take the time to do that again. I checked in years ago when we first moved here, but things have surely changed.

I have frequently used businesses based on word of mouth from the locals, which have led to a few occasions where I was highly impressed.

Other times it went horribly wrong (ie., when we asked the building inspector for his opinion on who could expand our master bathroom.-- The contractor he recommended pocketed the money that was designated for the building permits, and proceeded to do massive structural damage. Cut our header beams, causing our ceiling to collapse. Didn't tie in the new foundation to the old, nor have it inspected. cut, stripped and 'hid' raw wires in the wall as to not have to have to pay and electrician to fix it.) After reporting the issue back to the same building inspector (at the time), the contractor attempted to bribe the inspector (in front of us) by offering the inspector money NOT to report it to the licensing officals. Thankfully the inspector turned down the offer, only to promise us personally to fix it in exchange for a vehicle of ours that he admired. Being trustworthy, and mildly ignorant about his affiliations, we signed over the vehicle to him, he never completed all the work, and picked up the vehicle while we were at work despite the fact that we had personal possessions inside. -we never received those possessions back, and he sold the vehicle for thousands of dollars on the same day (so we were told by family members to him). We had to sue the contractor and go after his license from the state before receiving resolve. -- and this guy is consider 'trust worthy' and does 'good work'.

Nothing like having your husband off fighting in Iraq to have people that are valued as "elected officials" take grave advantage of your family. I don't think the Chamber would have seen that one coming...but perhaps I am wrong.

This is just ONE situation....I have a few more that are just as mind blowing, but I digress.

I will take a trip down there when I get some time. You are the first person with a positive suggestion and I humbly appreciate that.

Hope you and your family had a beautiful Easter.

:-)

Rocklady; if I may make a suggestion? Go and talk to the Mountain Home Chamber of Commerce. There you can ask questions of the local businesses and find out which ones are worth doing business with. I have lived in this town since '85 and can tell you that there were, and still are, good business people in this town. There is no excuse for the rude treatment you received and certainly no excuse for standing you up for an appointment.

Rocklady it certainly seems Mt Home businesses don't really appreciate or even want local customers. Goatbeard makes it so "painfully" simple to never set foot in any store in the city other than Walmart when necessary. Some day the old grouchy people will see the light or move on for good. Until then, I'll spread the word to shop Boise. Doesn't seem any other local businesses want to speak up or refute the bad reports. Telling isn't it.

Sara Connner, thank you for your insight. This is America, shop where you want. Be a troll if you like. Your good with the name calling and scenario building. That's your right, your an American. I just can't understand what pleasure you gain from being so contrary. I sincerely hope your not ill or in pain. Something must be wrong to make you so miserable. Maybe you just haven't been clean and sober too long. It's ok, the pain will go away. Bless you ma'am, and have a good day@

A big thanks goes out to the de facto local chamber of commerce called goatbeard and dudewheresmycar. Both these business owners want us to just shut-up, stop complaining and shop local. After all, the people that have lived here for 20 years or longer don't have any problems with bad service and inferior products found in Mt Home. And imagine when long time resident ItsJustMeAgain seems to tell the unhappy customers, moving away might be a better option because all is well and good in her world.

Armed with all this great advice from long time residents, I think I'll just pass on local shopping. Boise has more shops and boutiques than I can handle but somehow I'll manage sorting through the abundance. And who can forget the ease and convenience of shopping on line. Shopping online is shopping local isn't it?

I think some people are saying change, improve and do better or we'll do all our shopping elsewhere. If business owners don't want to heed our advice then sayonara to our money. Maybe some other local business owners have a different solution.

Lotsa sour grapes here. If your life and business went sour, start over. If at first you don't succeed, try try again. Does no good to belittle Mtn Home because you didn't plan well and lost you way. Seems to be a lot of talk here knocking the local businesses. Well, maybe some have employees that aren't the smoothest, but usually the owners take care of problems. This go to Boise thing is foolish. Sure, they have things there not available here, that doesn't make them better. I have less satisfaction there than in Mtn. Home. If your stuff has gone bad its not fault of the town. Look at your own trials and tribulations. You probably made your own bed. Now you have to sleep in it. I have a small business and I'm not sure I'd want to help you out. Attitude is everything. Leave it home and see how things work out for you. Have a good day.

Scoutin,

It just amazes me at the number of retired military that call Mountain Home home. Must be something to like. We are fortunate enough to have one company in Mountain Home that purchases in volume and operates on small margins. Walmart. I remember the pre-Walmart days. Back when Bealles was the old Kings store and Tindall's before that. This was a different friendlier more customer friendly town then. It was fun and friendly. Do some research on Walmart, you'll be amazed. Do your homework before hiring anyone. You make Boise sound golden.

It's not. Plenty of bad apples there as well as anywhere. I have no idea of the types of companies that you hire out of Boise, or if you just shop there. I don't see that many service vehicles running around town that are from Boise. If you have that thriving of business, why spend the dollars to come here. There is a lot of truth in my second response. Some people never learn to get of the government tit.

Dude- Both of your responses is exactly what's wrong with all things in Mountain Home. I would not be surprised either if local companies have a similar story, the main difference is, those companies are in it for the money, so customer service should be expected. The problem is, most, not all, but most businesses in MH make it seem as though the customer should be glad to have a business here, and poor customer service or workmanship should be good enough for it. I don't know about you, but with the recent direction of the economy and route many businesses are being forced to take, you'd think they would be providing the best customer service and workmanship for the task at hand, for something called repeat business, which as we all know keeps a business going. I have numerous instances with local businesses, both with poor customer service and workmanship that sadly has forced me now to always go with a company from Boise to provide the services knowing that they will always be much improved from anything local businesses can or would provide. I see the "buy local" all over MH, and believe I would love to support the local economy, but if they feel their lack of customer service and workmanship is good enough, well, there will always be a Boise company more than willing to be up to par, if not above it. As for your second response, it's more than asinine, but expected.

Dude-- You definitely sound in harmony with what I was speaking of- a jerk. If it wasn't for the military, this town wouldn't even be here, but we are constantly taken advantage of. Glad to know that you are part of the problem instead of a solution.

Dog, I completely understand. It is unfortunate because many of the military that come here give this town a chance....its only AFTER they are taken advantage of countless times that they finally realize that the community never had their arms out in the first place....but they certainly hand their greedy hands out. Sad.

Rocklady...I hear you, loud and clear. If you can't pick it up and touch it in this ville, don't buy it. You're better off buying windows from Pennsylvania, computers from South Dakota, lumber from Michigan, and French fries from Maine, than investing in this closed community. You're either one of them...or, you'll pay more for the privilege of living amongst them. Mountain Home is a parasitic community that lives off the nation. If the housing market improves, I'm outa here.

I may not be surprised if each of the local companies also share a story of some similar tone.

Or here is a thought...take your complaint to the county commissioners rather than rant on here. If it means so much to you to write about it on, then do something about it rather than complain.

-- Posted by Old guy on Fri, Mar 22, 2013, at 7:23 PM

Guess from now on, I will keep my thoughts to myself to prevent me from upsetting someone. Got to love the banter box.

-- Posted by Old guy on Sat, Mar 23, 2013, at 7:33 AM

Anyone else catch the irony here? Lol

McCallumS,

Was not being snippy, was tring to be sarcastic since I beleive that KMar asked the samething on Facebook but had the answer all along. That person said it was the grain silo out near exit 90. That person went on for days about the noise and I think if it meant that much, then do something about it. I have been up since 5AM this morning like every other day, and nothing.

Guess from now on, I will keep my thoughts to myself to prevent me from upsetting someone. Got to love the banter box.

Reference Kmar's comment about a loud hum:

I have lived here for several years times 2 and am up everyday before the sun but have never heard this so called hum. Instead I hear the sounds of Americana such as the whistle of the train and clack, clack as it carries cargo. The sound of freedom, namely the jets taking off from the base. I spend time both inside and outside in all hours of the day and never once have I heard this so called hum. Maybe I am just getting older or maybe Kmar is hearing a noise in their house. Or here is a thought, if the noise is so bothering to you, take your complaint to the county commissioners rather than rant on here. If it means so much to you to write about it on, then do something about it rather than complain. As for me and my family, never have heard this so called hum either in the past or recently.

Anyone have updates on the Pauls Market vandalism case from a few months ago?

bazookaman maybe you can get someone to read the about-aclu page for the ACLU to you. Communistic? Only you can decide for all those voices in your head.

http://www.aclu.org/about-aclu-0

You'll want to keep your ears closed for a section where it states "Your right to due process - fair treatment by the government whenever the loss of your liberty or property is at stake."

We all know due process isn't something the Nut Jobs agree with. Isn't a bullet in the head your idea of due process?

sara-connor; thank you for talking to me instead of of at me; I appreciate the effort. I am willing to engage anyone in dialog that is constructive. As I have stated many times; I believe there is more in common with most Americans than we are aware and I truly believe we are not that far apart. Keep the conversation going.

I stand by my comments on the SPLC article, Patrick_A. The article is exactly as I stated it is; crap on the internet.

Patrick_A, I have to agree with bazookaman; the Southern Poverty Law center article at http://www.splcenter.org/get-informed/in... is comedic at best and a hateful rant at its worst; a grand example of far left hate at work. Saul Alinksky would be proud. Where are the top-10 conspiracy theories of the far left? Here perhaps: http://www.propagandistmag.com/2013/01/2...

Or perhaps a more balanced approach: http://clichesofpolitics.com/paranoias.h...

You see, the internet is filled with crap so you can dredge up just about anything you like. Damn foolish post, I thought.

bazookaman never lets a conspiracy theory go to waste. Professional help is just a phone call away Marine One. The shear entertainment value of your posts along with the political mileage democrat get are very much priceless. Nut Jobs Unite for the 2014/2016 elections as the democrats can use your continuing help.

My point was not that IANSA isn't doing good work or that I don't support their efforts, of which I do. But even as I support what they're trying to achieve I want transparency from them. If you're going to hold meetings, publish the minutes from the meeting; that's it. If they are U.N. sponsored, they should have nothing to hide, so post the minutes. If you're having conversations with U.S. elected officials, post the minutes of the conversation so that all their constituents can benefit from the knowledge. That is the entire point of my posting. I am not a conspiracy theorist, but I can certainly see where obscurity could lead to talk of conspiracy.

As usual sara-connor; you missed the point entirely. When will you lose this devotion to hate?

Patrick_A you have to realize the following from the Nut Job Party have no desire to learn the truth. They get their little minds wrapped around a Nut Job conspiracy, rinse and repeat the lies until everyone believes it. They work against everything that will help them get ahead. Don't understand why these Nut Jobs are so against affordable heath care, a minimum wage that will allow the people to buy the things they need and a good education for all. Try to disprove all the conspiracies takes time. You'll never convince these dunderheads but you can call them out, laugh at them and spread the word about the ignorance they spread.

That's a thoughtful question, Patrick_A. Actually, I support their goal of reducing terror, human suffering and crime perpetrated with guns so long as their activities are directed towards criminals, terrorists and dictators (the common ground I mentioned). Where I depart and disagree with their philosophy is when they try to influence my elected officials. To wit:

Scrutinize IANSA activities because they're a U.N. sponsored organization of which the United States is one of the largest paying members, who are meeting without documenting the details of their meetings, of which, can adversely affect Americans in future deliberations. Without documentation or media coverage, this organization can't be trusted.

Scrutinize IANSA'a activities because they have shown in the past that their policies are in direct conflict with the Second Amendment (disarming global populations, including the United States).

Scrutinize them because they only present one side of a much larger issue than the reduction of gun violence.

Scrutinize them because their goal of being an international watchdog can be construed to infer a means of bullying America (or any other country for that matter), which is in direct conflict with our elected form of government whom we have elected to serve our interests and act as our voice.

Scrutinizing need not be a bad thing and will ensure our interests are protected.

I do understand your point, Patrick_A; however, you are making a negative name for yourself calling people out who post on the banter box. Instead of trying to see their points of view on issues, whether you agree with them or not, you and a couple of others are more interested in belittling posters or misdirecting the conversation to points irrelevant. We need to engage one another in dialog if we are ever to find some common ground from which we can move forward together. Believe me, there is common ground that exists where all can participate without giving up our beliefs, whether religious or secular in nature. I am not your enemy and I will not be silenced. Stop attacking me and others with whom you disagree and engage us in thoughtful dialog and let's work to find that common ground. Our concerns are as real to us as yours are to you.

Patrick_A, you make me laugh.

Oh Lord Bradbury you need to spend more time with the wifey or shoot some cans with your associate Marty I will say a prayer for you

bazookaman they have meds for your condition. Please seek professional help. Until that happens, we'll enjoy your posts. Nothing like a good Nut Job Party faithful posting ignorance to put a smile on our faces.

mytwobits I'm glad you're neither a democrat nor republican. Vote for whomever you think will do the best job. I try to do the same thing but in the last 10 years the Nut Job Party of freedom and the constitution seems to hate the whole idea of freedom. Abortion, same sex marriage and such things that you're against are also none of your business. Your God isn't my God so don't legislate with your God. On a side note it is my observation the people of the Nut Job Party are always bitter and mad. OTOH liberals seem to like where this country is headed or at least can live with a smile.

Does anyone else find it very ironic that the same judge that dismissed the previous charges against the scum bag that killed his step-child appears to be overseeing the case concerning the brutal murder of the same child.

That's what I thought Patrick_A.

Funny, Patrick_A, you have yet to produce any "expert opinion or statistics" when you counter any poster's arguments; you just challenge them to do it. Practice what you preach. Where are your facts?

Really??; I think we, like most Americans, are not too far apart. We both want to move this country forward. The major difference between us is liberal versus conservative. There is room for common ground. I am anti-Progressive (bet you couldn't tell) because I truly believe there is an agenda at work to which most liberals are regrettably unaware. It takes on the guise of freedom and equality for all but it's ultimate goal is population control. Look at examples from world history and you will see what I mean. Look at Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini and Mao. These were the liberals of their day. Each of these dictators preached similar rhetoric we hear from modern Progressives today (the rich are evil people who don't pay their fair share, only the government is able to provide for the people, etc). They swayed people with words and the people swept them into power. Before the people knew what hit them, it was too late. Then you either went along or you were ostracized and/or killed. If you think that can't or won't happen in America today, think again. Knowing history, I know it can happen here if the people are blinded by rhetoric.

Oh, and Really??, I never said a word about God given rights.

Patrick_A: When will you learn? From the Colorado Examiner at http://www.examiner.com/article/colorado... - "For instance, on July 27th Michael Sipili, a 22 year old former football player for the University of Colorado, was allowed to plead guilty to a crime he did not commit in order to avoid prison under the Supervision Act. Sipili, who is accused of raping a 22 year old woman last year, pled guilty to felony exploitation of children and misdemeanor third-degree assault. A 22 year old woman is not a child; how then was he allowed to plead guilty to felony exploitation of children? Both prosecutors and defense attorneys admitted that there was no factual basis for the charge. While the crime he pled guilty to is actually considered more serious than the crime he was originally charged with, it does not carry an indeterminate sentence, so it is the preferable charge.

Similarly, a Broomfield realtor who was recently convicted of two sex assault felonies for raping a 20 year old woman who was babysitting his children received a sentence of 30 days in jail and probation, precisely because the judge did not want to subject the man to an indeterminate sentence that could keep him in prison for life. So attorneys and judges are finding creative ways to work around the Supervision Act, and as a result, those who are guilty of sex offenses are able to avoid prison time altogether."

This posting is just two examples of many, many available examples and is presented here for the benefit of Patrick_A who is unwilling to do his own homework in an effort to to attempt to disparage me. These cases are adult-on-adult but provide examples of the leniency in sentencing these offenders. For information on the child predators, Patrick, go to: http://sor.state.co.us/?SOR=home.home

Here you will find relevant information on convictions and by cross referencing the names to newspaper articles you will find the results of their sentences. As I have stated in the past, I won't do your homework for you.

GetRealNow, You pick an isolated incident, which is sad by any account, and want to hold it up against liberal perspectives and say they are skewed. That would be like me pointing to a recent move by the house in this state wanting to make it a crime if law enforcement officials aid federal agents in any possible confiscation efforts of a potential weapons and/or ammunition ban. Why should an individual who, by choice, enters law enforcement to protect and serve the community be held by a fascist law from a die hard republican state that cannot see what good could come to the people of this state? The difference between what I speak of and what you speak of is that I am willing to do what's best for the people around me instead of doing what I think is best for me. I do not feel I am having my rights taken from me, but I feel there are rights being taken away from people that do not have them. Take the LGBT community, what gives you the right to live how you want to live but deny them the right to live as they want to? Women, why should the government determine what a woman should due without her consent? It's her choice! Immigration, why would deny the right of people who are here, regardless of how they got here, that are working jobs that other Americans will not do because they think it is beyond them? You can have your opinion however you want, but do not tell me about your "God" given rights because it was not God that gave those rights it was educated and intuitive men that wanted freedom from oppression and equality for all. You cannot pick and choose which laws you want to stand for and look away at the laws that make us equal.

Ah sara connor; I get it now. The Terminator, right? How childish. Sara it's a shame you can't seem to post a lucid or thoughtful comment here on the banter box. You really should try to convey your thoughts in meaningful way. It would serve you better. If what you mean by a liberal and opinionated woman is a vile and mean spirited person ridiculing those who present concerns that are valid to them and many of us, then you really do need to open your eyes, ears, mind and heart. As for the next election, I think it's premature to predict the outcome. The president's popularity is falling as he continues to mishandle the economy and his attempt to crucify the Republican party has backfired. The party of the sitting president historically doesn't do well in mid-term elections and was evident in the 2010 mid-terms when Obama got his shellacking (his words, not mine). Also, 21 Democratic senate seats are up for re-election and most of them are from states who voted for Romney in the election. So you see Sara, it's anybody's election. I hope you won't feel too bad if the Republicans retain control of the House and reach an even accounting with Democrats in the Senate or better yet, gain control there too.

What you fail to see Goatbeard is that we do study history and have come to realize that people like President Reagan had faults and so did President Carter and President Ford before him. What we have determined is that their policies and beliefs set this nation on a downward trend because they did not see everyone as equals, they wanted what was best for the few and the rich. It wasn't until President Clinton took office that all people began to treated as equals. You speak of freedom like it is something that is entitled to you alone and nobody else gets it. Freedom is about equality and until you can see that all are equal, you will not be free!

GetRealNow, MHresident and bazookaman are going to have to put up with a woman who is liberal and opinionated. I'm sure you 3 Nut Jobs will continue spreading your gospel according to Glen Beck or Fox News. I'm not going to play your game of misinformation. You spread all the lies you wish. Most intelligent people already know the Nut Job Party faithful are too ignorant to figure out the truth. We laugh at you and your posts. Please stick with your old ways and watch magic happen in every upcoming election. The people are wise to your Luddite ways, thinking and politics. It's neither quaint nor relevant in this world of our. Looking forward to the banter boys. Keep up if you can.

He is back! And I am not talking about Johnny. Now he is a she. Just when you thought it was safe. People in their own insane glasss houses should not cast stones. Love thy neighbor.

Oh, and Sara, I did show you the big picture in my post about Progressives. Even if you bothered to read it, you did not get it. First, open your eyes. Next open your ears, mind and heart. Once those are done, you'll see the big picture.

GetRealNow uses my favorite statement. The big picture? Where is that picture hanging? Who painted it and if it's such a great thing then why don't you show it to us? I'll tell you why. It's because you want to sound intelligent but facts and real life seem to get in your way so the big picture is one of those things dunderhead like GetRealNow uses.

To all of you who are quick to judge and classify MHResident: You can hardly blame MH for being angry. What we are seeing played out in American politics today isn't new. Progressive ideology began to take hold in the early 20th century and forces loyal to that party, in one form or another, have been hard at work systematically dismantling American rights since. This period notably included the emergence of the Progressive Party, founded in 1912 by President Theodore Roosevelt. This progressive party was the most successful third party in modern American history. Roosevelt's New Deal was the first step which sought to hook Americans by making them so dependent on government that the population could be easily controlled. Social Security was the corner piece of this campaign. The notion that if every working person paid in a little, then all could benefit in their golden years sounds very attractive. However, as we are seeing today, this program is getting more and more expensive as more is being taken out than is coming in due to American having the audacity to live longer. The second hook is Welfare, the third Medicare, closely followed next by the fourth hook Medicaid. This system of government dependence is intentional to the Progressive movement. The newest hook, the Affordable Care Act or "Obamacare" is just one more hook to limit individual choice and get Americans dependent on Government. Take welfare, or public assistance as it is called today; recently, at the president's national prayer breakfast, Dr. Benjamin Carson, the keynote speaker gave an eloquent, lucid and well thought out speech on this topic and others. Dr. Carson is a world renowned pediatric neurosurgeon at John Hopkins University Hospital. In his speech Dr.Carson pleaded with people to get off welfare as quickly as possible. You see, Dr. Carson in his career never someone go on welfare, ever come off of it. Modern Progressives will stop at nothing to remove all obstacles to their ultimate destination of their vision of "Utopia." This includes vilifying those that they feel jeopardize this goal. To the Progressive, the end justifies the means. This includes an unarmed population which is easier to control. I wonder why MHResident is angry?

I looked up Bradbury in the online white pages. It says he is associated with Marty Ford.

Bazookaman, you a racist, ignorant, and egocentric individual with no feelings or concerns for others! You should just go back to your cave and stop breathing the air the rest of us need to move forward, not back!

MHresident to even put the name of God into the 2nd Amendment is evidence enough for most sane folks to question your sanity. But the Democrats in this country really enjoy your rants. Makes the 2014 and 2016 elections easy to predict. The Demo's will have a super-majority in 4 short years. Please keep on posting all your nonsense as we all need a laugh each day.

MHresident doesn't seem to have an sane original thought in his head. Why would I trade a trained and qualifies cop or soldier to protect me and my family with someone like you MHresident? You appear mentally unbalanced on this forum. Please get mental help MHresident. Do our community and yourself a favor and check yourself in soon.

Why is it that when a child has OBVIOUSLY been beaten, someone always tries to say things like "He fell off of the couch" or "she hit her head on the coffee table", or fell down the stairs, or off the bed? Anyone who would beat a child, a defenseless, innocent little child, and much worse, to death, deserves nothing less than life in prison. I can't begin to imagine what a child could do to deserve what happens to so many children in the world. It takes the lowest of the lowest adults to beat on a child.

One thing is for sure, adults who do this are not smart enough to realize that there are people who are specifically trained to determine what causes a death. The people who beat on children, their lame excuses won't be accepted when the truth comes out.

As usual Bazookaman you post very misguided information to support only your cause.

MHresident, tell me how your God is going to save America? Kind of like the senate chaplain asking God to help save them from themselves, it isn't going to be God that saves them, it is responsible lawmakers that make responsible decision and quit pointing fingers and asking God to sort it out.

Since when do citizens have access to "automatic weapons"? And just what is a "military grade" weapon? My there are plenty of rifles out there that shoot the same round as a M-16. Does that make them a "military grade" weapon? for a rangemaster it would seem you don't know much about modern weapons. otherwise you would know an ordinary civilian is not allowed to have a machine gun and what make an "assualt weapon" so scary is it looks different. if it looked like a regular rifle no one would give it a second thought. Also, think about this, how many times does one of these actually get used in a crime?? I think it was a proven fact your more likely to die from someone hitting you with a hammer instead of one of these "assault weapons".

And tell me who you have protected MHresident? I could say that you have not done a good job as well. Think about what you are saying. You are so hypocritical in the words you use. As was just pointed out to you, as well, the owner of Cerebus is Stephen Feinberg who lives in Newtown, CT and decided that it was best to sell off their assets in the Freedom Group.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/18...

Really??......Really!!

Joe Howard's service has been scheduled for next Tuesday at the Idaho Veterans Cemetary. Further details are available from Rost Funeral Home here in Mountain Home.

Getrealnow,

I don't feel threatened and I do not feel unsafe. What I don't like is the people who choose to carry a weapon that feel their right to carry a weapon is a greater right than those who choose not to have one. Rights are meant to be equal and that means there needs to be compromise. I submit that I do not mind if you have a weapon, but I also think there needs to be limits on what you are allowed to have. Being retired from the military and serving in combat, I can assure you there is no need for a civilian to carry a military grade weapon for the mere act of "protection" or "target shooting". Our society has provided law enforcement as a means of protection and statistics show that a homeowner with a weapon is more likely to have it used on them by a perpetrator than them protecting themselves. Again, I appreciate your civil discord.

Just a bit more on Progressivism: Michael S. Coffman is a Ph.D. who earned his advanced degrees in the fields of ecosystems and climatology. In August 1994, his timely warning to the U.S. Senate about the UN-generated Biodiversity Treaty succeeded in stopping the liberal and progressive internationalist plans to have our nation ratify the pact. Had the senators done so as they were expected and approved the treaty, their action, Coffman warned at the time, would have launched an attack on property rights and started a program to herd huge numbers of Americans into human occupation zones in metropolitan areas. You can Google examples of this very thing happening today to well owners in New Hampshire with Government trying to usurp their privately owned water wells. Fantastic? Not when you look at the evidence. Americans who value private property and reject being forced away from the land owe him a large debt of gratitude. To learn more about the dangers of the Progressive ideology, read Dr. Coffman's book, PLUNDERED - How Progressive ideology is destroying America. In his book, Coffman gives an historic account of what has happened and what is still happening today. She is calling to you! Can you hear her?

I can't believe he is gone!! I've known Joe for many years at least 30. It's sad to see friends leave us. My heart goes out to his family.

Very sorry to lose Joe.

Our hearts & thoughts with his family

The Staff of the Mountain Home News would like to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Joe Howard. We were notified today of his passing and he was a long time blogger of ours and I'm sure everyone will miss his recipes. He always enjoyed sharing a new find or an old treasure. I myself will miss his calls. Brenda

Getrealnow,

I appreciate your attempt to make a civilized argument. While I can see your argument about law-abiding citizens being able to enjoy semi-automatic weapons, I have to ask you the same question, is your right to enjoy this past time greater than the right for people to feel protected from people who use these types of weapons for the wrong reasons? I do not think that the sole intention of the government is to focus on just law-abiding citizens, rather I see the government making an effort to curb violence through the very nature of it in this instance, the guns. Thank you for your input and perspective!

Really??; Obama is trying to take our guns and he isn't the only one. Progressive ideology requires the disarming of America to see their agenda of population control and fundamental transition come to fruition. This includes both progressive Democrats and Republicans who have a belief system that they know better than we the people what is in our own best interests. Recent tragedies in Aurora and Newtown that made headlines are horrific and it's appropriate for Americans to place safeguards to attempt to ensure these types of tragedies are never repeated. However, Progressive ideology states to never let a tragedy go by that can be used to further the aforementioned agenda. This is what we say playing out in the media today. All Americans should be aware of what's taking place and should be on guard. Ask yourselves; is there a reason why law-abiding citizens should not be allowed to enjoy the pastime of shooting their semi-automatic weapons if that makes them happy? Ask yourselves; are criminals going to use the criminal background check system or gun registration? Ask yourselves; if all the recent tragedies are the result of mentally ill people, shouldn't our government's focus be there instead on on law-abiding citizens? Finally, ask yourselves; why is our government focusing on law-abiding citizens in attempting to control gun violence and not on the forces that do evil with guns?

The problem with your sources MHresident is that they are very right wing, "oh my God, the government's going to take my guns!" type sources that promote hysteria amongst gun owners. Do not let yourself succumb to this mentality and educate yourself on the truth of the matter. Obama is not going to take your guns all that is being done is an honest effort to protect people in this nation. Just as you have a right to carry a firearm, I have the right to know that if I go to the store or send my children to school that they, or myself, are not in jeopardy of being shot at by someone's right to carry a weapon. I think that is simple enough.

Tell me where your sources are MHresident for the "confiscation" you are referring too? I would suspect that is just your opinion and nothing factual.

If there is something illegal going on around you, you shouldn't be on here asking what you should do, we all know to report illegal activities to the nearest law enforcement agency, even if the individual is military. You wouldn't call Security Forces on base, if you saw an Airman committing a DUI, or theft off base, you would call local LE. Now, yes, you could call the members Shirt, but in most instances, they will direct you to contact local LE, since their jurisdiction does not always extend to civil matters. I am more concerned you have seen this person beat this animal on several occasions and haven't contacted MHPD, what are you waiting for?

Shirt- I have to say a few things regarding your post. First, I totally get the burnout felt by all "old school" AF SNCO's that have seen the kinder gentler AF take hold; So many being slapped on the wrist, only to do it again. Yes, your hands are tied, which I know is frustrating, but remember it will come back to you. Second, military members are held to a higher standard. And last but not least, an airman committing a crime will come to you one way or the other. Animal abuse is a crime, and must be reported, investigated, then formal charges applied- here is where you will come in.

So to the person wanting to call the shirt- don't. Call law enforcement etc instead. then see where it goes from there. If you do not see any changes in the treatment of the animal, they're other agencies located out of Boise that can help.

Really People: So, let me get this straight, you incorrectly post something, as you stated in your post that it was incorrectly stated, then when I comment on that, I am ASSUMING something about you? WOW! That's all I can say is WOW! I am sure you CAN dance all day, as I see by your LONNNNNNNNNNNNNNNG post, you like to hear yourself talk or see yourself in print. I prefer to state what needs to be said, in my opinion of course and not keep on about it. No point in keeping it going if I have said what I have to say, just to give you a place to "rant" on and on without end. Right now, WOW, is about all I can say.

:::walks away, shaking head and a little confused:::

Well lest you think you or comments made by you were the reason I retired, let me assure you that is the farthest thing from the truth, my choice to retire was made years ago and in a different state and different installation. I am certainly not in favor of animal or child or spouse or elder abuse, in fact I am vehemently opposed to them. What I do take issue with, and feel I have earned the right to; is simply calling the shirt every time you want to get someone else to get after a military member for something you don't like or condone. There are many people who can influence over another. To blindly lump all manner of issues on a Senior NCO who has general supervisory responsibilities over upwards of 100's of personnel is simply not the best avenue of approach. I can and do speak from personal experience of over 5 years with a diamond and 2 deployments to a combat zone, that if the shirt is burdened with every little whine and complaint from everyone who was upset with their "airman" neighbor, then the real work of caring for their charges would never get accomplished.

Do not presume to know my motivation for retirement and my post was incorrect it should have read "like those made here". In other words the senseless contacting of the "shirt" for every little thing that you don't like about your military neighbor. I missed a word or two in my post and this is not an apology either, just a clarification.

You can "suspect" in a public forum all you want and if you want to bend an elbow one of these days I'll be glad to school you in the in's and out's of a First Sergeants Career and what it means to go out in the middle of the night (not only to the local jail for an alleged drunk driver) but also to sit in an ER with young parents while their newborn clings to life. I'll be glad to tell you countless stories of success with people who needed a little extra "parenting" or help growing up. I could go on, but now it fear it would fall on deaf ears.

The bottom line is the First Sergeant should not be a catch-all for peoples bad behavior and should be used for the purpose and training their position was created for and not the role that some many people think it is. You say you know "first hand" what a shirt is, and that may be true, but I can tell you "really first hand" that an issue like this is not the best use of the First Sergeant's time and could actually be a distraction from their assigned duties. In fact if you have access to the duty and job description of an 8F000 you may find it interesting reading. Or you may interested in the First Segeant's creed. Both make good reading when you want to learn "first hand" what a USAF First Sergeant is.

I agree that something should be done about an animal abuser, you missed my point that the shirt is not the best avenue or catch-all for that problem. They have more important things to do. And yes there may be more important things than this. If you are as upset (as you appear) than clearly this is a criminal matter and should be addressed under current Idaho statutes and not someone's ""boss"is, more commonly knows as his first shirt"

Finally one more interesting observation and proverb from my grandmother (she was a First Sergeant too) Before criticizing someone, walk a mile in their shoes. Then you may know how they feel...and you have their shoes.

You wanna keep going round and round with me...I can dance all day and half the night. After all MJIPEOIMB. That is all - again.

ReallyPeople: This is NOT just something that is "bothering" a neighbor. This is ABUSE of an animal and it's illegal. Talking to the people who are able to make a change with the behavior of an individual is the best solution. Obviously this man has no business having a pet and if/since the abuse only continues and gets worse when the neighbor tries to talk to the man, the only thing left to do is call the police or the first shirt. If you don't like it and that idea offends you, I won't offer you an apology, I am not offended by people trying to help animals in need. I happen to know first hand that a first shirt is someone who has influence and some control over people like this man who finds it no problem at all to abuse a defenseless animal. If indeed your statemnt "Alrighty folks, I am a retired First Sergeant and one of the reasons I retired is because of stupid comments and suggestions made here" is true, then you weren't really committed to your job and wanted out for whatever reason. Taking comments made on a public forum, by people you don't know and probably never will and using them as an excuse to retire, is pretty lame in my opinion. I suspect there was much more behind why you retired.

Anyone else who disagrees, I won't apologize to you either. It's time to step up and STOP allowing abuse of animals.

Well if you feel so strongly about it, call the police and file a complaint, heck you could even sign the citation because you have first hand knowledge of have witnessed the actions. Then it would be you and him in the court. Stand up for the dog and sign the citation and explain and save the animal in the court.

Hey I have a solution everytime something happens get in contact with the persons "Boss" no matter civilian/military!

Belief it or not the first shirt only has some so many legal rights to do anything against Airman...

TYPO Alert: Should be humane society not human society.

The fact that he is an airman has nothing to do with this so I'm not sure why you stated it. However, if he his mistreating the puppy call the police or the human society. There is no excuse for mistreating an animal.

I asked a question earlier today in this Banter Box do you know what happened to it?

Hey Sheriff Rick Layher why don't you answer your email?

For those that have watched the video of Dr. Ben Carson at the National Prayer Breakfast, I thank you. I am very interested in your opinions and thoughts about where this country is headed and what can be done to steer her back on course. I will be reaching out to you soon. She's calling to you...and you have heard! My heart sings today!

Happy Valentines Day everyone!

It's a pretty, snowy day in North Dakota.

Hope everyone is well.

goatbeard,

Yes, I know he "heard" but he needs to "listen" and "heed".

I did notice the look on his face. He looked like a child who had been caught with his hand in the cookie jar and was being dressed down for it. He looked like he was wondering "When is this hell ever gonna end?" (Which is what I've been wondering for over four years.)

The doc has my admiration and respect!

GetRealNow,

Great, great, great video. Brought tears to my eyes. Hope our President was hanging on every word. (Along with a lot of others who needed to be listening.)

Please disregard my spelling mistakes.

Dave Thompson; you're still in denial. Probably still get a tingling up your leg, aren't you? She's calling to you, Dave. Why won't you open your heart and mind?

I don't fret. I never said H4A specifically called me a name, just that I've actually been called names here. Obama Llama Ding Dongs takes the cake though. :)

He just bugs me because he never takes a moment to fully read and comprehend posts before he lashes out against the author. Like in Kelly's blog about this session's legislators.

GetRealNow - Progress report re: the truth of Benghazi?

You provoke a specific type of emotional response, H4A, whereas I aim to facilitate thoughtful discussion and debate.

Any emotional stirring is unintentional on my part. You, however, seem to lurk among the blogs looking to make people angry.

I've seen name calling on this blog (and been a victim of it as well). Calling you a troll is hardly name calling. More of a label, like one would label a person who only discusses sports, participates in sports and wears sports-themed dress would likely be labeled a jock.

Really?,

I'm not sure if I'm reading your comment correctly. Are you under the impression that I made a comment about liberals, or are you asking me to ignore the ridiculous claim that my "education has been at the hands of liberals" may not be so bad?

I did not make a comment about name calling, that was H4A mad because I called him a troll, though it is an accurate noun to describe someone who goes through a website soliciting emotional responses.

If you're asking me to be open-minded about my liberal education, I will respond to all with this:

I have been educated by teachers across the country as a military brat. Some of them were liberal, some of them were conservative, some were more private about their political feelings. I was taught by a man who ran on a republican ticket and by a woman on a democrat ticket.

I believe a good teacher is a good teacher, regardless of political stance and I formulate my political opinions based on the research I do.

Like I said, I'm not sure what your comment was directed at, but I hope I calmed any fear you might have about my opinion of liberals.

Don't be so surprised that H4A can't stay off here.

He's the worst kind of MHN troll.

He skims blogs, makes his own bullet point summary, and argues with the author, usually (unknowingly) agreeing with the author.

And he wont' stop.

Why deny him his vice?

Aw, Dave. Like I said, it's not my job. And as long as you're in denial, it wouldn't do any good. She's calling you; why can't you hear her?

You made the accusations. You come up with proof of the lies.

All you're citing is what anyone can find on the news.

How do you know they're lying?

Unless you figure out how to get to the stuff that the news reports are based on, you've got nothing but information that has been edited and regurgitated for a domestic television audience.

I'll leave you to your work.

I'll check on your progress in a week.

Hi GetRealNow - That's the way partisan politics plays out in a congressional hearing.

No conspiracy needed.

Republicans condemned. Democrats praised.

The truth will come out in time. And it might be a long time. I can live with that.

As far as addressing the points of your post, well, you didn't make any. You made unsupported accusations.

If you have access to the intelligence required to sort it all out, by all means, get jiggy with it. You owe it to your country.

And when you get it all done, please let us know what you come up with. It'd be helpful if you'd cite your sources.

You know you may be raked you over the coals, as Daniel Ellsberg was.

Good Luck and Thank You.

GetRealNow - To know the whole truth, you have to know the whole story. You've got the whole story? Call one of the major news networks. I'm sure they'd be eager to interview you. Just make sure you don't divulge any information that might compromise the efforts that are underway to kill or capture those responsible for the attack. As far as questions from Congress to the Secretary of State go, some of those Senators and Representatives may have had classified briefings on the events at Benghazi. You don't suppose that opponents of the administration would use that classified information to their political advantage by asking questions that could not legally be answered by the Secretary, precisely because doing so would compromise classified informatio and possibly place other individuals at risk?

Hope4America, the www in the URL stands for World Wide Web.

When it comes to issues of national importance, what difference does it make whether a commenter is local?

Ask yourself if you're world class.

I-84 eastbound: Road closed.

Between Exit 53: Vista Avenue (near Boise) and Exit 121 (near Glenns Ferry). The road is closed. Extremely hazardous driving conditions.

Comment: Eastbound, Milepost 54 to 121 from Boise to Glenns Ferry. Westbound I-84 from Milepost 95 in Mountain Home to Boise is open.

Last updated today at 12:18pm MST

According to ISP, ITD and ECSO

I just need to address the way Fox News has been covering Secretary Clinton's Benghazi testimony yesterday. I've seen her edited all morning as asking only, "What difference does it make?" The soundbite and commentary is entirely out of context from here. The full context of her testimony was, "Was it because of a protest or was it because of guys out for a walk one night who decided they'd go kill some Americans? What difference, at this point, does it make? IT IS OUR JOB TO FIGURE OUT WHAT HAPPENED AND DO EVERYTHING WE CAN TO PREVENT IT FROM EVER HAPPENING AGAIN, Senator." I'm not trying to get into any Benghazi arguments (not that most people care anymore), I just don't think Clinton's testimony is being reported in the correct context. This morning Senator McCain criticized Clinton's testimony saying she "diminishes the importance of all the measures they didn't take," which if taken in context is a concern she directly raises herself.

Boise Teen Missing

http://www.ktvb.com/news/Police-searchin...

MH Resident

I spoke with a long time employee of the hospital Wednesday and they said they are getting PERSI with St Lukes but cannot take it early...I asked specifically about this becasue you have posted several times about this issue here. Im assuming you work there as this is a big issue for you.....

A huge "THANK YOU" to all of the school bus drivers, you did an awesome job the last couple of days, too bad other drivers didn't take your hint and SLOW down to arrive safe. Too "ConcernedParent Also" did you just move here from where there's no snow? This is Idaho, learn to deal with the weather and learn how to drive in it and by the way, not everyone in Mtn Home works for the MHAFB, we have to go to work, we don't get delayed starts, so I'd rather my kids get to school late and safe so I can get to work and earn my paycheck.

Once we arrived this morning at the HS to drop my daughter, I said, this is why school is open, we made it here easily and traffic was moving fine. It was a rare opportunity for me to drive her since we had delayed reporting at base. Worked out nicely. Btw, the city did an awesome job on the roads this morning. That's life in Idaho! I wouldn't have it any other way!

I can't believe that the school district did not delay/cancel school today due to the weather. Response I received from the Superintendent is "They drove the roads at 3am and only 1-2" of snow". Well by the time the buses come around (3 1/2 hours later) there's 3+ inches of snow on top of ice. Was also informed the buses have chains. According to the bus company they hope the drivers put chains on. When the base delays reporting for work so that military members and workers can safely make it to work, I think the school district should do the same. Kids won't learn if they are in accident just so they can be to school on time (buses aren't always on time in good weather).

@jessiemiller. the prices are still the same as the old company. My bill only changed the 1st month and went right back to normal after the new billing cycle hit.

ANelson:

I hope you will run for the WECRD Board again. Had you and Judy been elected, we would have had "recreation" in place and programs being provided. I doubt that you folks would have "engineered" a second Shaw Snow "study" to the tune of 20K either and interviewed hand picked people and people out of the WECRD taxing district who would scew the results to what you wanted them to say.

Now, the WECRD is attempting to obtain donations to build their fantasy facility regardless of cost. People do not even know that over $76,000 will be paid yearly to the YMCA just to run whatever is built. Also, nearly 50% of those projected to use the facility will be unable to pay the full membership cost---that will be paid by the taxpayers.

The YMCA is no better than the WECRD at this point. Turning over 100% of the tax dollars raised to the YMCA does not seem like a very good plan. Public tax dollars and religion also do not mix.

Wait to see what mess the WECRD gets this community into. Idiots and millions of dollars just do not mix, IMHO. You are correct, it has been 12 years and there is close to nothing. Maybe next time, people will vote smarter and this paper will report on the facts and not opinion with respect to the candidates and their plans.

One day, the truth shall prevail.

We are new in town and interested in the best internet options for our house. We've yet to subscribe to a Cable/Sat TV provider. We would like to hear your recommendations and reason. Much appreciated.

First as to the remarks about "panties in bunch", that remark was uncalled for and that is all I am going to say. As for why the cones are there, I understand the reasoning behind protecting the children. I do feel however that the simpler solution is for parents to not only teach children about not running out into traffic but to monitor children closer. And yes I am a parent and did this with my children. As for not stopping in to ask why, could it be because I work Sundays and thus do not have time to stop in? Who speculated now? If Calvary Chapel has a traffic concern like this, it has not been addressed to the Traffic Board or City Council that I could find online. There is a mechanism in place to have this addressed properly. As for "impeding anyone from finding a parking spot", sure looked to me like the lot was full, the spots along Main Street were full, both side roads was full and even part of railroad park was used. But a long walk from the other side of American Legion to the Youth Ranch would not hurt an elderly, handicapped person at all. And yes the Youth Ranch is open on Sundays.

The cones at Calvary Chapel are in place to allow oncoming traffic to clearly see any small children present. With cars parked in the few spots now blocked with cones it was difficult, if not impossible, for oncoming traffic to see small children who may have run out between the cars. I seriously doubt this is impeding anyone from finding a parking spot downtown on a Sunday morning. The intention was to protect the safety of children and if I as an adult have to walk a little further to keep a child safe I certainly don't mind.

How bout that WECRD? It's been over 12 years now right? The WECRD was created to provide recreation for this area. They were granted the authority to take our hard earned money through taxation for the express purpose of providing recreation to this area. It takes over 100k a year for them to have employees, rent a building, hold meetings, advertise, have a web site, business cards, cell phones, etc etc, and they give less than 20k a year to recreation. Meanwhile in the toughest economic times in mosts memory they take 400k out of this community.

400k in taxes and they put less than 20k back in.

It's for the children. Save the children. We just want a better future for the children. The WECRD board members always hide behind the children. With current economic times, is it just possible that NOW is the time to be helping these children? In these times when family's are having a tough time making day to day bills, is this the time when they could use help with the extras like sports and recreation? How long will the WECRD hang on to a pipe dream? Now is the time. Start producing something or get out of the way.

Maybe someone can explain to me why Calvary Chapel (across from railroad park) is placing cones in public parking on Sundays? After all the past issues with ensuring churches and business had the proper amount of parking, one would think all spots would be left open at all times to promote attendance. But every Sunday when I drive by, the spots right in front of the Chapel are blocked off. I could understand it if there was a funeral ongoing but doubt there is one there every Sunday. I am not aware of any other place that is allowed to block of public parking spots. Anyone have any ideas?

idahowantswolves post really nothing more than "The Sky is Falling" .

Sad to say since I am a USAF retiree here, but some of our own bad eggs have done some really bad things in our town in the past 12 years I have lived here. And I never want to see our base go away.

So I am guessing you are one of the people that also believe's that if we out law firearms. Then ALL murder will stop. And the criminals will turn their's guns.

This case had nothing to do with where he was from or that he is a member of their AF. It is nothing more than a creep that needs to be put behind bars with Bubba as his cell mate.

The water is fine on E15N.

David's memorial service will be held on Friday, January 11, 3-5pm at the Elks Lodge here in Mountain Home. Per his wishes, this will be an informal gathering of friends to celebrate what an amazing gift he was to us all. Actually, he always joked he wanted it in a bar with a game on, but we'll let that part slide. ;)

Rest in peace David Freer , you will be deeply missed.

Roundup is off of Daniels Rd.(S.10th East)- on the South West side of the tracks

You're right Trevor, it was asked for. Now that you've reminded me of that, I will offer an apology to Bazookaman; I am sorry for writing what I did, bazooka. I guess I let the past get the best of me. However, I sincerely wish a response to my question.

Thanks for your point of view, Trevor.

Please help with anything you can give, to help David Freer and family. David became critically ill the week before Christmas. Doctors still do not know why he deteriorated so quickly and had "crashed" many times. David is in the ICU fighting for his life. David does not have health insurance, and he has 4 young boys at home. His family and his wife Ambre have been constantly by his side, and they have a long road ahead of them. Please give anything you can!! Peace, love and light!! And most of all, thank you for your generosity for our, friend, husband, father, son & brother.

https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/aPW43?psi...

For those that know him and his family will agree that he is always giving to this towns youth thru baseball and football.

mhg4316: Probably just to tick people off. LOL.

MHres: I live just down the street from where the accident took place. From what I understand, the driver turning into his driveway is fine, (I know his family). One of the young people from the other vehicle was lifeflighted out and the other person from same vehicle was taken by ambulance. I have not heard officially what the condition of the people taken to hosptial is, but I would think they were critical due to the fact that lifeflight came out for one. This was quite an accident so am not sure why there was never any report about it in the paper.

Merry Christmas lilmiss! Hope you have a great day.

Merry Christmas to everyone. Hope everyone has a safe, wonderful holiday.

Merry Christmas Brenda to you, family and friends. Wishing you the very best for the New Year.

Joe

Yep. Once again another Congressman thinks they are above the law. Time to get him out. He's had his his fair number of years in the govenernemnt. This is not just a lapse in thinking, this is just outright ignorance. Drinking and driving. What is he thinking? IDIOT.

Senator Crapo, when you can no longer lead by example, it is time to get out.

http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/12p...

Please let it end with the "Oregon" incident. Please tell me we aren't going to be continually subjected to the heroic exploits of our small town hero on the blogs again!

Really, one (infinite) time(s) is enough.

MHR,

Isn't that like saying the kids were really stabbed to death with a 9" kitchen knife instead of the reported 18" machete?

What's your point here?

These people were killed by a nut; not by a caliber.

The media stated in many news reports that most victims were killed by a 9mm. They have since changed the story. The Bushmaster is now the culprit. However, the 9mm remains the weapon of choice per this article. They need to ban stupidity and worry less about guns, IMHO.

http://articles.washingtonpost.com/2012-...

Right OM. Funny one can't comment on the actual story on here either.

http://www.aic.gov.au/crime_types/violen...

BUMP BUMP

V

V

Some would say that BM is less than truthful.

v

v

v

Did "it' hit the streets yet?

----

Go ahead and support him......sing his praises and kiss his butt......cut the throats of your grandkids...........I will not argue with ANY of you anymore out here.

I am hereby OFF THIS BLOG-NET, (which should charm several of you).

As a AMERICAN.........I have nothing more to say, until it hits the streets.

And I apologize for NOTHING!!

-- Posted by bazookaman on Wed, Sep 12, 2012, at 8:01 PM

-- Posted by Pale Ale on Tue, Nov 6, 2012, at 1:45 PM

Oooops. Usage...not useage. Darn it!

Anyone with half a brain can tell that is not Buckshot's web page. What is written does not in any way, shape or form sound like Buckshot. And the language useage. Come on. What a cowardly act. That of a crazy person with too much time on their hands.

Just to clear up any misunderstandings, my posts have had nothing to do with the incident involving the women (mother and daughter I believe.) I know nothing about that. I was responding to another comment totally unrelated that has been apparently removed by the newspaper.

And my heart breaks for all those involved in any kind of way with the tragedy in Connecticut. I can't even begin to wrap my head around it.

Right to Know Folks:

Did these peoples actions damage you in any way?

We know how cruel Right to Know/Gossip folks can be, but have you ever considered there might be children involved in this situation?? And don't tell me the people involved should have considered this. Be a bigger person and leave it alone. We all know how cruel teenage children can be to others, especially when motivated by gossipy parents. I don't think thes kids need this right now. Lot of other issues you folks can discuss that won't harm young people. Lets be better people than that.

Well shoot... if you don't want to waste your time fighting rumors or trying to figure out what is fact and what is fiction, all a person has to do is Google "Idaho Repository" or "Vinelink." That (Idaho Repository) takes you straight to the source of checking Idaho Court records, and background checks (for free), or arrest records and charges (Vinelink). They will even go so far as to share when their next court appearance is. I highly doubt the fine folks at Vinelink or the Idaho Court system would stick their neck on the line by creating fiction or publishing rumors. Nobody is trying to throw these fine ladies under the bus. It is more of an issue of utter disbelief that grown adults could continue to make poor decisions because they think nobody is looking. I stand by my initial view- at least these upstanding citizens can serve as a great example to our youth when it comes to things NOT to do. Maybe I am just twisted or biased, but I have always come from the school that crime does not pay.

"Looking out for the reputation of our community". Hmmmm......

Where there is smoke there is fire. How much smoke does there need to be before someone goes to investigate to make sure there is no fire? Whatever happenened to folks who were passionate about their jobs, "investigative" reporters who were willing to investigate no matter whose toes they stepped on. They were not "press agents" for those who had sullied their own reputations. They were actually trying to protect their communities from corruption, not trying to help sweep it under the carpet. Why are some people more worried about protecting the reputations of those who apparently didn't care enough to do it for themselves?

Everyone is capable of changing, but one is still held accountable for their past indiscretions. If your past comes back to haunt you, you have no one to blame but yourself.

If someone holds an office that allows them to act on others indescretions, they should be able to handle an investigation into their own.

Kudos to the stand up job by MH News employees! Thank you for being on top of things! Happy Holidays and many blessings!

When we get something that is other than rumors and gossip we will let you know. We receive a police log weekly. That is what we have as legitimate information. Otherwise keep your gossip to yourself. I know we have a lot of Officers in the Know out there but legit is legit. Anonymous names and suppliers of information cannot be taken at typed value on a banter box. We simply will not let a name be slammed all over our website without it being substantiated.

Debbyp64 your post is minus information that could be helpful in assisting you find gainful employment in the Mountain Home area. That said, I would encourage you to contact and work with the Idaho Department of Labor's local office, located on American Legion Blvd in Mountain Home. Although they are not the only resource for finding employment in Mountain Home or the Elmore County area, they are great people who can and will provide useful assistance in finding employment. The Department of Labor's office has many programs, resources and services available and are provided at no cost to you the job seeker, except, of course, for your time.

Best wishes for great success with your job search,

I called ITD regarding Sunset strip and they couldn't even tell me if it was their road or not. They gave me the Mtn Home phone number instead. I spoke to the Foreman in Mtn Home and he states they put the "patches on the road to hold it together until a project comes through to replace the road." As of today, there is no ETA on when the road might be repaired. He keeps turning in his report to ITD in Boise but hasn't heard anything back regarding a time frame for repair. At least the Foreman was far more informative then their head office on Boise was. I might as well of asked them about a road on Mars. Go figure.

This paper is completely biased, this message board is not a place where people can post their opinions even when following the guidelines. I find it deplorable that attention to problems with the city and county law enforcement offices cannot be posted because those screening what is written believe everything written is considered disrespectful. The law enforcement in this town needs to be cleaned up, this is a truth, I am not being disrespectful.

I was wondering if the city or the county is planning on fixing the horrible chip seal attempt that was done on sunset highway? It has really bad ruts and if you catch your tire just right on it, it pulls you towards the other lane. I really think this should be fixed before the weather gets any worse and whomever did the initial work should really be put through proper training.

jtrotter...stephanywhat,

So, while people are expressing their willingness to fight for their beliefs, you are criticizing their grammar/spelling?

Here's something to consider..."The more stupid people think you are, the more surprised they are when you kill them." I can't remember who gets credit for the quote; but, I personnaly remember it as "Never underestimate the enemy."

It's about Ideology, not government.

Your right, social security is not an entitlement but Obama is turning it into one. Obama believes everyone is entitled while Romney at least believes everyone should work for what they have. I work in that same system and see it everyday. Someone who has worked for years and no longer can but can't get social security but someone who just immigrates a month ago gets it.

Did you know one of Mtn Home's oldest fraternal organizations turns 125 years old this weekend?!! The Rebekah Assembly of Idaho Guiding Star Lodge #4 is having an open house on Sunday! From 2-4 p.m. at 155 N. 3rd East - behind the video store, next to the barber shop. Stop by and visit! Learn the history and charitable works of the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs and show your support for this noteworthy group!!

Please excuse the double post, but some things need to be addressed. The first is the original, the second is the same with response-- Apologies in advance...

^

^

"It is OFFENSIVE to see other veterans BACK POLITICIANS with communist agendas to sell this country out, and put it under the U.N. flag.

Did y'all FORGET the OATH?? Or did you just enlist to try to get an education and eventually a pension?

I dedicated MY service to OUR country and OUR way of life. And I put OUR country ahead of all others---both IN and OUT of uniform.

You guys should have joined the Peace Corps or something.

-- Posted by bazookaman on Wed, Nov 7, 2012, at 10:33 PM"

^

^

"It is OFFENSIVE to see other veterans BACK POLITICIANS with communist agendas to sell this country out, and put it under the U.N. flag."

---It is offensive to see "another" veteran hold himself and his opinion above fellow veterans with whom he disagrees.

"Did y'all FORGET the OATH?? Or did you just enlist to try to get an education and eventually a pension?"

---I dont think anyone forgets their oath. And a condescendingly supuerior attitude adds no weight to your argument. Why someone enlisted is none of your psychotic business. (but it begs question: do you enjoy YOUR pension?)

"I dedicated MY service to OUR country and OUR way of life. And I put OUR country ahead of all others---both IN and OUT of uniform."

---There in lies your dilemna--You still live IN your uniform. I also dedicated my service to my country (I don't remember anything about "way of life" in MY oath). But when I retired, I retired: I left trust in the military and those replacing myself and others retiring to continue to protect and defend us. And you know what, they've done a pretty darn good job thus far. They didn't need me to "carry on" with them. YOU think that you are needed for things to "carry on". You retired from the military, yet, you constantly portray yourself in a John Wayne manner. There is no "in" or "out" of uniform with you: You are Mr. Marine Mike! And with that mindset, you act as if yours is the only opinion that counts. You are ALWAYS touting your prior service--it's like you feel like you are owed reverence for your service. Other veterans still hold their belief and creed, but they don't feel the need to cry "I SERVED" to punctuate what they believe.

"You guys should have joined the Peace Corps or something."

---Not that I'm one of "those" guys, but, no thanks. I'm content with what I joined, and retired from.

ditto, ditto, ditto

I am going off news grid as well

If anyone would like to make a non-perisable food or money donation to the ID Veteran's Home, Legion Post 26 and the Legion Riders will be accepting donations on Saturday (10 Nov) at T&V Marine from 9-2. All donations will be taken to the Home on 17 Nov. Any little bit will help.

http://www.stripes.com/campaign-s-over-b...

A sad day for America. I guess all the people who want the free stuff won out. I have never been more disappointed to be an American than I am now. Hope you people who voted for more entitlements will someday realize it came at the expense of your freedoms. Be careful what you wish for.

America likes to be held down now, foot on our throat's. Your kids, your grandkids, your grandkids grandkids. Good Luck!! Feel Good!! Emotions defeat common sense...again. "i have never beeen more disappointed to be an american". The word "american" begins in lower case now.......

Did "it' hit the streets yet?

----

Go ahead and support him......sing his praises and kiss his butt......cut the throats of your grandkids...........I will not argue with ANY of you anymore out here.

I am hereby OFF THIS BLOG-NET, (which should charm several of you).

As a AMERICAN.........I have nothing more to say, until it hits the streets.

And I apologize for NOTHING!!

-- Posted by bazookaman on Wed, Sep 12, 2012, at 8:01 PM

Election Day is close. Hoping the elected County Commissioner will be Franklin "Bud" Corbus. He has always seemed dedicated and a man for any job.

His card reads as follows; Will work hard to keep citizens informed on all issues, Will strive for continued improvements between city and county governments, good listener with common sense approach, Fully supports the important relationship between Elmore County and the Mountain Home Air Force Base, Lifelong resident of Elmore County and Understands and supports the economic impact of agribusiness in the Elmore County Community. Good luck Mr. Corbus.

Missing Harold... a 2 year old Male Chihuahu.

Answers to Harold. Super sweet dog, very loving. Last seen at 13th and 4th last night. Supposedly going into someones house.

Harold also had a doggie coat on him with a furry hood. 13th and american legion is the vicinity.Please Contact his owner if you have seen him at all..... timjones89@yahoo.com Thank You!!!

To see a photo of Harold please go to Mountain Home Classifieds on Facebook.. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=...

Or Contact Tim at timjones89@yahoo.com. ANY NEWS GOOD OR BAD IS APPRECIATED... THANK YOU

gmoney, take a closer look at the City Hall site there is more than one way to check minutes but it still may not fit on your laptop. On each one of the places you look at it also has a place to e-mail us, click on it and you can send an e-mail to them and ask your question.

There is no pool in the plan for Phase I of the "proposed" WECRD/YMCA facility. Phase II---MAY---contain a pool. Phase II may come around 2024 at the current rate of arrested development on this "project."

Just wait until they build it, blow through all of the money and then are unable to keep the doors open (or will not be able to afford to open the doors in the first place).

How do you plan to build something so far into the future when by law, one Board, can't put the next Board into debt? So if we could ever get a decent WECRD Board and that Board elects not to fund the "recreation center"---then what? True story. Could happen.

I have paid attention to the WERD district and the million dollars of tax payers money they have. I find it disgusting that a beautician, and 2 corrupt people are in charge of that much money. It is appalling to me. Anyone can call the YMCA for themselves and find out that their indoor pool does not pay for itself. The original idea behind the WERD was a temporary tax until a building/project could be completed then the tax would be dissolved. As long as the only people who show up are the church members of the current board nothing is going to change. Insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting different results. That is what this town is doing by leaving the same people in charge.

There are other options that are beneath the current council. The WERD could of got the grant money for the old Kings Building and put in place a great rec center, creating a Central location from all schools, setting the rest of the tax money already collected into a bond for future upgrades. The Youth Center gets city money for their power, (phone.. and.. well, I hope you read the article and paid attention to what happened when the city took away it's funding) and are tax exempt.

If we took this same principle to a rec building (no pool) that gave a nice place for birthday parties, kids to go and have fun with more activities than the Youth Center, a walking track for the seniors, the building could become self sufficient, and the tax could go away.

As long as 3 classless women are in charge of this money they will continue to spend more on employment, IT support, and stamps (along with holding their own elections.. maybe that has finally changed.. when the one who signs the paychecks is up for the vote, the one needing that check somehow always counts in favor of the check signer, even if they have to skip other votes.. no one can prove me wrong or right) than on actual recreation.

Even when the board has an opportunity to provide recreation NOW, they would not. The last budget meeting I went to made me so sick I hope to see none of those women again. They didn't even have a budget planned if the YMCA called and said they were ready to go to phase 2. They have no idea what they are doing, and they get roughly 500,000 per year of YOUR TAX money. Someone had to tell them that the FDIC only insures up to $250,000 so they would not put it all in one bank. Then when it came time to take money out, they complained about the 3 months of interest they would loose. They wouldn't of even had the 3 months of interest if they weren't told what to do with it.

That's right. If those women had left all that money in one bank, and that bank went under, the million + tax dollars of YOUR MONEY would of been lost because stupid people have been left in charge of it.

If your frustrated with the state of the economy, worried that your only option is to choose the lesser of 2 evils come election day, you need to look further into how your tax dollars locally are working. It's not pretty. Get mad, get angry, and lets get something done that can make a difference for these kids.

I know it is easy to ignore the drug problem here in town. I don't want to acknowledge it's here either.. however, those kids need a place to go. If the WERD is allowed to continue down the path they see fit and no one intervenes, the kids who need this the most will be left out, because they will be charging a fee for attending. So, if your tax dollars to build a facility with the flooding piece of ground they bought you will have the luxury of paying with your own money (not just tax money) to join and use the building.

It is obvious to me that tax dollars are being used to build the elite a facility. If it were a facility for all, it would be free. Yes, I know, one of you are going to say, "there will be grants available" that is just a way to sound good, yet keeping the bad kids away from their kids. The kids with parents that work 2 jobs, just to make ends meat, won't be approved for that grant, although they don't have extra money to pay the membership fee. The kids with drug addicted parents: well, their parents aren't going to go fill out some papers.

I understand wanting to keep social groups separated, when my daughter went from private pre-school into public school she picked up some very bad habits.. I know that if the school was adequately staffed, the social differences wouldn't of been an issue. With 1 million +, grants and high interest bonds can support all the community needs with no more taxes. Ask the seniors, they have things figured out, we have a lot to learn from the generation ahead of us, if your egos allow.

This town needs a bus like the seniors have for public use. So private groups can rent it. The kids, 16+ should be able to go out to the Bruneau Sand Dunes and go to the observatorium, it's learning, sharing and having fun that their parents don't always have time for. It's hard right now, let alone being a single parent, between work, yard work, laundry, house work, when do they fit in the time for these things. I think it would be a huge blessing to this community if more people got involved and took an interest in the WERD. There are highly qualified people in this community who have morals to high to be corrupted by the power these current officials have. There are sensible people in this town, a lot of good people who care, donate, and give back without asking for anything. The least we could do is ask them for advice.

There is an entire generation of people who volunteered to make this town a good wholesome place to live, they spent their careers working with charities and with others to make this place a safe community for their kids, now their kids have no respect, have not continued in the family legacy and have given birth to more "give me" generations.

We have wonderful resources available to us. There are large groups here: Lion's Club just to mention one. There are 4 more in my mind right now. Can you name them?

Anyone that looks at the Mountain Home web site will need to update your site if you have it under your favorites. City Hall started reworking the site and I think it looks good and think other may like it also. This is the new URL for their site.

http://city.mountain-home.us/cityhall/

My guess is maintenance,life guards. And to pay for the new solar heating system that was just installed.

Cant justwatch and Opinion Missy,

Can't justwatch,

Your complaint was that the money for this indoor batting cage was coming from the school district. Well guess what it isn't. All three baseball clubs are trying to improve their facilities so the KIDS have some where to practice instead of out in the wind and rain in February and March when they are preparing for their upcoming season. They are trying to put themselves on an even playing field with pretty much ALL the schools and programs up in Boise. They are trying to build programs that this TOWN can be proud of. Maybe you ought to venture out of this little town and see what other towns that are the same size or smaller have to offer their kids. It is very sad to go to all these different schools and see their wonderful and modern facilities and then come back to our facilities. All these kids want is a place to go indoors and hit, pitch and maybe practice some fielding out of the weather. That is not a lot to ask. . Mark Cotton, Robert Woodruff, and Ryan Miller and a list of others have done a great job fund raising and working to get this done. I applaud them and thank them for everything they have done.

As for the maintenance of the building, it is a prefab metal building, not too much to maintain. I am not sure who owns the property, I have heard it belongs to the city, so if that is the case, the city would be the ones maintaining it. Again I am not sure. I do know that the teams help maintain their fields. So I am sure that they would be partially responsible for some of the upkeep.

OpinionMissy,

Are you really going to complain that the WECRD actually let money go for recreation in this town? Funny, I thought that was what they are supposed to do. So they had to have a board meeting approve it. Would you rather they just hand the money over blindly? Nothing will make you happy concerning them. They are darned if they do darned if they don't with you. Yes, I know everything they have done and I don't agree how they do everything, but at least they did something that we elected them to do!!!! So what if they want a photo op? Who cares? That is a little petty. That select group that you are complaining about is a pretty large part of this town and those kids, well, hate to sound a little cliché but they are our future. Maybe you ought to come out and enjoy a game and support the kids while they are playing and see where some of the money went. You might actually find yourself recreating.

Crew 25, if you knew the facts that surround the WECRD, you would not be so happy. You have lived here for 12 years. You have been taxed for 12 years for a recreation facility. Do you see a facility?

"Assuming" that the people who post on here "just sit on their butts and complain" is really not a fair statement. Many of us who post on here also donate many, many hours (and money) to this community without the need for a photo op or big old bill board on the football field.

If you knew the true facts surrounding the WECRD and their "plan" you would also be outraged. Do your research and get the facts. Then maybe judge the rest of us. Just a thought. There are more community leaders in MH who do NOT support the current WECRD Board and the path that they have been on than those who do support the WECRD. Call Alan Bermensolo, the Mayor or Stan Franks with Parks & Rec., they can explain it all to you.

From the August, 2012 WECRD Meeting Minutes:

E. Mark Cotton, Robert Woodruff, and Ryan Miller present request for grant funding for an indoor batting and pitching facility that will accommodate the Mountain Home High School baseball and softball teams, American Legion baseball teams, and Elmore County Youth Baseball teams, as well as Glenns Ferry participants. The facility will provide year round opportunities for baseball/softball training for ages 4-18 including tournaments. See attached grant application for details.

Amount requested: Ten thousand dollars ($10,000)

Amount already secured: Thirty-eight thousand dollars ($38,000) from several community sources.

Total cost of project: Forty-five thousand dollars ($45,000)

MOTION: Pres. Borgholthaus moves that the WECRD approve the grant request to fund the indoor baseball facility in the amount of $10K. Second by Dir. Sessions. Motion passed. The check to be written to the MHHS baseball program.

Mark Cotton: Thanks the WECRD for the funds and will promote the building of the Y, too.

Dir. Marsh: Asks Brian Orban for a photo op.

Nice to know it is always about a "photo op" and "billing" for the WECRD. Nothing is EVER done by Mollie Marsh and Jana Borgholthaus because it is the right thing to do. The WECRD by law is to provide recreation for ALL in this community---not a select group.

Can'tjust watch, please do your reasearch before you start complaining about what is going on with that indoor batting cage. The money raised for that was done by the High School team, The Royals, and the Babe Ruth teams. No money from the district is going to be used.

To MHresident: Whether or not they report on the charges filed against Grant Bothen, it's important that every parent teaches their children about sex offenders. Mr. Bothen is not the only child predator in the town of Mtn Home, let alone the state of Idaho. Parents, please be cautious and educate your children to be aware of predators out there.

Seems like you had no problem jumping right back into the foray of the soap opera with the same character.

Be careful with those glass homes.

Found this on another site: http://www.ktvb.com/news/Eagle-man-arres...

WHY? So he can be tried, convicted and hung by the readers before he even goes to trial?

Word of mouth is enough in this town to get the news out, obviously. Want to volunteer for that job?

I'm sure the school will send out some kind of notice and if anyone has any questions then call the School District office and ask.

Midea: The City posted about the "Sharrows" (bicycle use) on their web site if you would like to take a look.

http://www.mountain-home.us/cityhall/Hom...

WECRD Secret Meeting on Thursday, October 4, 2012 at 6:30 p.m.---WECRD Office. This meeting is not open to the public but the "invites" were on WECRD letter head and tax dollars were used for the mailing as well as the "study" and one Board Member will be in attendance.

There was an article in this paper last week that indicated that members of the public who were interviewed by Shaw Snow for the most recent "study" would be invited. It would appear, based on those interviewed, that some of those invites must have been lost in the mail and only select people were invited (WECRD letter dated on/about September 14, 2012).

More WECRD games. Closed meetings and backroom deals.

Scratch that the missing owner has been found.

A district audit, by an outside accounting firm, is a good idea for all school districts, in my opinion.

....and I thought that the summer re-run season was over.

Happy Birthday USAF.

Didn't think so.

MrMister: Obviously I wouldn't have asked if I fully understood. So now; since you know exactly how this is supposed to work, would you be so kind as to answer my exact questions?

So who does have the right of way on the roads with the sharrows? Should the bikes move over when a car approaches? Are they REQUIRED to move over and yield when a car approaches?

Actually, this might be a good interview for the paper to do with the police department and print it in the paper to educate all of us who don't understand HOW these work.

Mr. Clements,

Therein lies the problem. When it takes multiple paragraphs to explain a couple of symbols, there is bound to be confusion. And probably most of the unsafe drivers don't read this board, or understand what "sharrows" are.

One would assume that during these tough economic times, the city would spend their money more resourcefully. Oh wait, if they need more money for their pet projects, they can raise taxes.

Can someone explain how these bicycle symbols on the roadway are supposed to work. Are all these roads now bike paths and bikes have priority to drive down the middle of the street at 5 MPH while traffic piles up behind them. I'm all for bike paths but this seems even more unsafe then not having a path.Sometimes the city council needs to say NO to stupid ideas. What are the statistics on bike vs car accidents in the city?

Joe B is in the parade every year. AFAD is a very important event to him. I wouldn't call it living in the past, just showing his support for the community that supported him throughout his term as Mayor.

In regards to the bus driver, I hope that people pay attention to your letter in the paper. I was stopped one time at a cross walk by Hacker Middle School and a driver who had been behind me, decided he didn't want to wait and went to go around me and almost hit two children in the crosswalk. I looked over and he looked to be a teen driver with some friends in the car. I'm not saying it's only teens who do this, I've seen adults do the same thing.

On another note, I was at the drive through window at Subway on Air Base Road and I witnessed two young boys who pushed the button to cross the street. I thought they were just going to cross and be done, they did not. They proceeded to press the button at each corner and kept crossing the street to the other side, making the full square and were still doing it when I pulled away. That is an extremely busy intersection and NOT a place where anyone should play.

Seems some adults as well as children need a bit of education on safety on the streets. Let's hope the letter brings some attention to the problems.

He could have candy coated what is going on, but he didn't.

I agree. I do believe that this needs to be disbanded and a decision needs to be made to inject this money into the recreation facilities we currently have. We have the Youth Center and also Parks and Recs that would benefit from this a lot. From what I understand the CLDC that was supposed to work between the WECRD and the Y disbanded. It is time to quit beating a dead horse and change direction completely. I am very pleased that Kelly showed honesty and integrity in his blog regarding this situation.

Second Wind,

First, read Kelly's blog today. I don't normally agree with a lot of his thinking, but I know that he has finally gotten the picture on this fiasco. Secondly, get involved and try to get copies of studies and go back in the history and look at what has transpired. You too will get tired of trying to acquire info or waiting for action to be taken. When this was first voted in to tax to the community for it, our children were all young. Today, they are grown and moved on and once again the WECRD has delayed action on the last report study as you will see from Kelly's report. You go and get firm information from them and see if they stick to what they tell you. I think you will understand the garbage that has gone on with this mess from the beginning and begin to feel the frustrations of many.

Sekund wynd,

Thanks for your reply. However, I suggest you may have misinterrpreted my intent:

I don't play with my dogs...I work with them.

I don't drink to feel better...I drink to forget.

I am not anti-social...I'm a-social.

I'm don't suffer depression...I merely express disappointment at being forced by fate to deal with stupid people.

If your plan to improve your life is to convince different minded folks to pay a tax to support your point of view...then go for it. Just vote.

The last time I tried to improve my life through exercise and meeting other people, I danced all night with a stranger at the "El Rancho." I wound up getting married...a steep price I wouldn't force on anyone seeking a self-improvement exercise.

Democracy: Your ignorance has as much value as my intelligence. AKA, one man, one vote.

I vote not to pay another dime to support a failed idea.

BTW, the people I've met in this community make me have more respect for dogs.

BNeal: Once again in English this time, please.

Junkyard Dog,

You sound like a depressed, anti-social person. Not everyone feels the same way that you do, as evidenced by the fact that a majority of voters voted for the Rec District and keep voting in the Directors who are supposedly trying to make a Rec Center happen.

Go play with your dogs and drink to feel better. Other people would like to take a more positive route to improve their lives like exercising and meeting other people in the community.

It could be self sustaining if the WECRD board had not gifted away over 50 percent of the taxes collected so far.

Goatbeard,

I appreciate your opinion, but I was wondering about the last study that was done and what it revealed. Thanks.

Regarding the WECRD - Does anyone know what the last study revealed? Was it deemed to be self sustaining or are they going to have to continue taxes and raising other monies to keep it going? Anyone heard?

I ask because I see they are wanting to raise more money again in order to build.

Not sure why folks are jumping on JYD for his comment about, well let's just say "less than responsible" OHV riders. I don't spend much time on the trails in the spring and summer, maybe 4-5 days to go up and scout, but I do spend a lot of time up in the mountains in the fall, from archery season till late rifle. And though I don't really "get" the whole ATV/trail bike crowd it is public land and folks can do as they please. I have no problems with that. It's just that in my experience it's not just a "few bad apples", it's a very large portion of the off road community. And it's not that they're fat or lazy, it's mostly a willful disregard of OHV regulations. I see examples of it pretty much every weekend I'm in the mountains. When I hike an hour and a half into a spot that I'd glassed elk, only to have a couple dirt bikes run right through the middle of my setup, miles from the closest trail ( and this is noted on the access road and on all trail maps as a "ride only on designated trails" area) I'm going to get mad. When I hike in, then watch three ATVs ride across the ridge above me only to get back to the trailhead that evening and find that they'd ripped out the "no motorized access" sign, I'm really frustrated. When I'm actually standing at a "no motorized access" sign and watch three teens on dirt bikes ride right past it into the wilderness with complete disregard I'm going to be pissed off. And these are just a fraction of what I've witnessed in the last couple years. From what I've heard, albeit secondhand, the fire wasn't started by one of these kind of folks, it was just bad luck with a malfunctioning vehicle being operated completely within limits. Though from what I've seen, and probably JYD also, it's no wonder that we haven't had more problems due to folks operating out of bounds.

Feel free to stir up the ashes, Rusty. I won't get in your way.

Aa few days ago, I drove past the local movie theatre.

It never fails to amaze me to see the amount of equipment that the City has purchased and cintinues to purchase.

MAYBE THAT IS WHY THERE ARE NO JOBS!

WHEN THE CITY NEEDS SOMETHING DONE THEY SHOULD GO TO THE LOCAL PEOPLE THAT HAVE THE EQUIPMENT AND THE KNOWLEDGE TO RUN IT.

It might seem that it costs more that way but, actually, you don't have to pay for the equipment, the operator is experienced,and 3 extra City employees don't have to be paid to stand and watch.

Mr.427539,

Your question didn't bother me. I'm just perplexed by it. Not to sound callous, but someone dying of natural causes really isn't that big of a news story. It's a common, everyday occurrence, unfortunately. By now, I'm sure the important people in his life know who he was, unless there's some extenuating circumstances that have prevented timely notification--like family vacations and such. I'm just honestly trying to figure out why you're so determined to find out this individual's name, unless you have you have some reason to believe that it is actually someone you know. If that's the case, it seems like there's loved ones who will get to you on that, when they're ready. Death is a tragic thing. This man's loved ones deserve the respect of a little privacy, until they're ready for it not to be private. I sincerely hope this wasn't someone you knew.

As a long time resident of Mountain Home I am quite amazed that 1240 "HANK" has chosen to try and jump into mainstream media hype. Anyone in their right mind would know you don't turn on AM radio to listen to modern music you find all over every FM station. My father who is 87 years old has always listened to 1240 because of the choice of music that was played. His Sunday morning were always spent sitting near the old radio he has in his kitchen listening to 40's and 50's country music and Cowboy Corner. I understand that is still going to be played but what about the rest of the week? So much for small town tradition and clean clear "Hang down your head Tom Dulley", no more Ferlen Huskey, I know most of you reading this don't even know who those folks are but they sure do beat AC/DC Highway to Hell. I hope the individuals who are responsible for this ridiculous change of a local AM radio station have the self confidence to realize they made a bad choice and fix it. Some things are better left alone but then again look at who is president of our country how was that for change....

Godspeed to those fighting the fires and to those assisting with peripheral needs, such as traffic safety and human safety. Bless the families of each person involved and bring them all home safely.

Boy....it surely is a good thing that the city officials banned smoking in the parks.

Otherwise, it might be difficult to enjoy fresh air in the parks today.

Fire reached the summit of Steel Mtn according to the incident website today. I don't know for sure the last time (or if) it burned, but I'm guessing it'll be a long long time before it looks the way it did a few short weeks ago.

Mosquitoes: 100% DEET. Effective- every time, every where. Haven't been bitten in a long, long time, even hiking into some very mosquito and bug infested areas. I always keep a bottle on the porch, another in the console of each of the cars, and put one in my pocket everywhere I go, most recently to the Blues Traveler concert at the Botanical Gardens in Boise. Works great. And yes, JYD, the smoke has been keeping them a bit more at bay, but just about this time of evening, I start to hear a few a-buzzin', so out comes the bug juice, and it works.

Man dies during incident at C.J. Strike Dam

"A 61-year-old man died from a massive heart attack during a fishing trip at C.J. Strike Dam on Tuesday. According to Deputy Greg Genz from the Elmore County Sheriff's Department, the man was fishing with friends at the local... "

2 Emails to this paper have gone unanswered. This has been a week, why aren't we seeing more info on this incident?

A case of West Nile (human) confirmed in Elmore County according to Ch. 2 News. And how many times have known problem areas been fogged this year? How many calls does it take to get an area treated? Explains the case of West Nile.

Thanks, Geoff. The parts of Idaho that drew me back to God's country, are now in flames. SCREW a bunch of motorized retards who think they have the right to spark the tinder of nature because they are too fat and lazy to walk a mile in Paradise.

Buck Shot

Very good. Instead of blasting the management use some of that knowledge and try to be a part of the solution instead of the problem.

So after some research on the net I found the ISAT score for 2011 for the 4 Elem. MH schools.

Base 94%, East 86%, North 85%, West 77%. Now really I do not feel that the ISAT score's really tell the entire story. But unless you are willing and able to take your kid on Base. There is no difference between East and North.

Mom2,

Mountain Home does have an open enrollment policy that you can take advantage of, but when you filled out the application for your child to attend a school out of their attendance zone, there is a place that you have to tell them your transportation arrangements and if you READ THE POLICY, it states that you are to provide transportation to and from the school or to an appropriate bus stop. That is your responsibility, not the schools or the bus company. Crew 25 you were not lied to, it is their responsibility. That bus was just a convenience to them.

The bus company has every right to streamline and consolidate bus routes to make the system more efficient and cost effective. We pay a pretty penny to bus kids to school in this town and if it saves us a little to not have a bus make the trip from North to East so be it. I am pretty sure that a bus taking kids to West does not drive by East or North. Why would it? Why would a bus that picks kids up to go to North need to make any additional stops at a school that the kids don't go to? Why keep them on the bus longer than they need to? Doesn't make sense. Why make kids get on one bus just to have to get on another bus and that bus have to be on the road longer than it needs to?

All the elementary schools have the same curriculum and the kids have to learn the same information. So saying one school is "superior" over another is just crazy. All three schools have great teachers, yes, some may be better than others, but they all have the qualifications to teach our kids. They all have programs to help kids that are behind or need extra help. You just have to ask. Most teachers are more than willing to help. I have two kids that went to West and go to the High School now and they both have 3.5 GPA's and are taking Dual Credit classes. Seems to me West was just fine, probably more than fine. My son started kindergarten in another school in our district and I kept asking for him to get help with his speech and the teacher said he was fine. For first grade we had him in West and his teacher identified his speech difficulties right away and got him the help he needed. I have a little one starting West and I am sure that he will be fine also.

Buckshot

Buy the course. Its a huge money maker I'm sure. On the other hand if you are not aware of the large fees charged by credit card companies on small purchases, or the complications a pump problem can cause, please don't. The course would be a financially ruined weed patch.

Personally I believe if you have the "option" to send your children a school other than your local assigned school, then you have the "option" to get them there. It compares to, I could make more money working in Boise but the employer has to take me there.

But there is more money being paid out for the fuel the bus uses. When I was in grade school the bus only ran to West, the Jr High & High school. The town was divided up and your child went to the designated school mapped out by the city..and this wasn't too long ago. And how can one school be any different from the next...they are all in the same district...But you are right it is your choice to put them in whatever school you want...so figure out how you will get your child there...i just think it is dumb that the bus have to run to pickup children because their parents choose for them to attend a different school

It seems a little crazy to me that you can choose the grade school your child attends anyway. This is part of the reason there is over crowding in the grade schools. What happened to this section of town goes to North, this to West and this to EAst. So now we have over crowiding and have to pay more for the busses to run from one end of town to the other.

A couple of guys with badges, guns and the authority to throw your butt in jail, show up and tell you to pack it up and go.

However, some of you view this as a negotiable moment. Kinda like the way four year old children behave when you tell them "no."...such is the arrogance of disrespect for legal authority.

The uniforms displayed extreme patience and restraint in the face of ignorance and stupidity combined with a revolutionary sense of entitlement. They are better men than I for the job.

Maybe Idahowantswolves will run for Sheriff next time and we can see what a great job he can do. What the 5 minute viedo does not show is how long officials were there and the words spoken by those civilians. Ironic how we can hear the the county officials clear as day, even before they raised their voices but we cannot hear the civilians that well. Videos are like stats, you can make them say one thing while I can make them say the opposite.We need to see the whole video are not speculate as to what went on before the 5 minute section posted.

I think the Sheriff needs to take some anger management classes. This guy is walking around with a a loaded gun. He needs to have more control then he showed at the scene. watch the video. he lost his control.

now thats a way to get people to come and spend money in our county. I think someone needs to retire. I spend 13 hrs a day out in the sun non stop. I dont wet myself over someone expressing there views or asking a question.

I think the sheriff's did a great job of holding their cool. These were kids who probably used to argue with mommy and daddy and got their way because they wouldn't let up. Well, take a guess what - it doesn't happen that way in the real world. Rules are rules, follow them. Can't only fulfil half of what you are supposed to do and expect to get the rewards. Maybe they will try to follow the rules the next time? What the heck is wrong with people today?

I think the Sheriff and the Deputy did a great job of keeping their cool until the young man said something bad about the county. The Sheriff explained the County's reason for not allowing the event OVER and OVER yet the people wanted to debate it with them. They should have been debating with the owner and P&Z. The poor Sheriff and Deputy were just the messengers. I too would have exploded after well over 5 minutes of repeating myself. Just wish we could have heard what that person said.

This should answer your question what happened at Oasis. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjUfPwtIU...

Heard it was because the people doing the event didn't get everything done that the County asked of them. Elmore County is very restrictive on everything. But I guess if you don't cover all the bases...it's like a matchbox in that part of the county. It's a range fire ready to happen! Can't control all this people smoking cigarettes.

Where is Captain Harry's Oasis Event Center? Never heard of it.

After reading some posts on here lately I was just wonderning what is YOUR point or idea that high school sports are for.

I myself am alittle old school. I feel the coach has a very tough job. They should be teaching fair play/sportsmanship and how to lose like a winner.

But also they should be putting the best team as possible on the field to win. that means if a freshmen is better than a senior. Sorry the senior plays jv. Nobody likes a losing program not the kids,school or town. Plus the coaches job is also gauged off their ability to have a winning program.

I myself am a big supporter of competive sports in HS. It teaches our youth that you have to work to earn something. That life it self is not given to you with out some sweat and tears.

But the school/teachers/coaches can not do it alone, it starts with PARENTS caring and instilling this into their kids at home.

Do we leave it up to the preacher to teach our kids religion or do we practice in our homes also?

makingthebestofit.... raised my child in Mtn Home for 18 years, and regretfully. I hear ya about having a child love a sport, but have that love turned sour because of the coaching. Been there, and bought that t-shirt at MHHS. Bit my tongue for four years till I thought I'd bleed to death! Good luck to you. You and your child (ren) will need all the luck you can get.

EXTREMELY well stated. Nice job.

Sports - soccer, baseball, football, basketball is important to a lot kids. Where they play isn't as important as getting them out there to play. Mountain Home Soccer Club has a lot of great parent participation and support and it really appreciates everything the parents do. That includes volunteering to coming to games to cheer on our young players. Mountain Home Soccer Club has had many positive comments about our players AND our parents from the referees in the games we've played at in Boise and Twin Falls. MHSC wants to help get those kids out there to improve their soccer skills and have some fun competing against their peers in the Boise/Nampa area. mountainhomesoccer.com

I am not sure who you are referring to. But I do know that the JV (boys and girls) coaches both have children that play MHSC and they both coached teams in the club this past season and are very involved in the club.

But I do not all the coaches and kids by far.

dudewhersmycar: Agree PARENTS are a major issue with the HS sport programs. There are many ways for a kid to get better with their sport of choice. They can go to Boise clubs or right here in town we have the Elmore County Youth Baseball, MHSC, AAU Basketball and Optimist Football. All 4 of these clubs compete in games/tourneys in Boise and Twin.

Boyzmom,

I am guessing your son has not played in the MHSC. Since you did not already know this about the coaches children.

I don't have a problem with kids going to Boise to play. I think that if you can bring your child to play in Boise that is your right and great for your child that they can get that extra level of competitiveness there. I just don't think we should have COACHES (who get paid)representing Mtn Home HS when they don't support Mtn Home.

Just my opinion... My son is trying out for the High School Soccer team. They haven't had their official tryouts yet, but they are having unofficial practices for conditioning. I just heard that they have a couple of new coaches this year and they have boys that play soccer, just not HS yet. But these coaches have their boys playing in Boise not Mtn Home. These coaches live in Mtn Home and Mtn Home has a soccer league and I'm not talking about Parks & Rec. Why does the school district hire new coaches that take their kids to Boise to play? If the coaches don't think that Mtn Home is good enough for their kids than why are they coaching our kids?

I'm not here to convince anyone of anything. I am merely presenting information which people may consider for themselves. Its significance is relative.

http://www.vanityfair.com/politics/2012/...

No, it is not the practice fields we use for soccer and such. It was the yards surrounding the Jr. High building itself such as the large areas where the buses pick up and drop off.

which school are we talking about that the sprinklers have been on none stop. First I see East Elem. then a remark about the JH.

I know that at the JH (East Side Park) football practice fields. There was some NEW sod laid down (not paid for by the school)and it would need water to get a hold.

Live & Let Live,

Your pets are your responsibility...period. Be advised, I do not want them using my veggie patch for a litter box anymore than I would acquiesce to you parking your vehicle(s) in my driveway. To truly live-and-let-live means respecting your neighbors privacy and property; regardless of how much you truly wish to live in any community.

So the grass quits growing because school is out for the summer?

Chances are that whoever is in charge of watering the grass at the schools does not read here. Why not call City Hall and see if they can get someone to turn the sprinklers off? Just a thought :)

To the motorist of Mtn. Home, there will be a lane closure in effect Monday morning from V1 to A to Z heading in towards town. Please slow down and be considerate of the workers in the closed lane.

Thank You

Im not saying that my cat should be in there yard.My nabor has the right to hate cat's if they want to.Just that it's hard to change the nature of an animal.I have paid almost $100.00 to the human society this past week. I have 2 fine's to the city. Not sure how much that will be yet. Im buying my home. So I may be here for some time. I am trying to keep them inside. But with people going in and out. My kids and there friends. They manage to dart out. Guess im just sad because i wanted to love living here.But thanks to my nabors I wish I had moved anywhere els!

Live and let live

Please keep your cat in the house. There is a leash law for cats in the city. You could of paid a stiff fine. Plus Not everyone is kind to cats.

Please protect your cat by keeping him inside.

@live and let live: you may want to give your neighbor's a heads up about a simple solution to keep your cat out of their yards/landscaping. Eucalyptus oil diluted in water and spray it on the corners of the areas they would prefer to not have your cat be in or around. You can get the oil at Sav-Mor. This works like a charm.

I recently moved to a new home.Didn't know at the time I would be the younges person on my block. I'm talking retired with nothing better to do then water there perfect lawn.I have outside cat's. Have lived here 21 years with no problems. Righ a way my nabors complain my cat has been in there yard.I try to keep them in.But they hate it.Next my nabor starts trapping my cat and taking it to the human society.They call me right away because my cat has a collar with name and address. This gets me a fine and a fee to pick up my cat.If my cat is out and they call, it will walk righ up to them. Then another fine and a fee!This has happend a couple of times. Don't I have any rights? When does this become harassment? Why would they want to make an enemy right nexed door? I wish there was a law agains your nabor's being hateful Rotten human being's!

Breaking National News: Holder will not be prosecuted. Big surprise there. The end to a perfect week (so to speak).

My apologies to Goatbeard. I misread the poster's name who responded to my post. Obviously, my comments were intended for IdahoGeek52.

idahogeek52

You need to watch more National News, yes, both CNN and Fox News to to get the whole picture on where this great country is heading under current leadership. Then make a rational reply here on the board. Name calling has always been a sign of one's intelligence.

GetRealNow you a complete moron!

Obama 2012

It was not my intention to be "rude" to thisoldtown... My understanding was he didn't like this town so why would they be on here complaining about it? Thats all.

Thank you workingbee for getting what I was saying.

Sure glad the school district got the last levy passed, as now they are able to run water ALMOST 24 hours a day seven days a week on the large unused grass area at West Elementary. Oh well, it's only our tax dollars anyway.

This was posted on the Mtn Home News site after the fire. There was a car wash last weekend to help and I don't know if any of this other info is valid now or not to help those folks.

http://www.mountainhomenews.com/story/18...

Does anyone know what, if anything is being done for the people who lost their homes in the fire last week? Would like to help...

mhg4316.. You are right...

lilmissmelmo.... allow me to quote "Mountain Home is an unfortunate hole where battered souls go to die. It is not a place of prosperity." and you ask why "I don't understand why Hey You had to be so rude to This Old Town.... enough said .... Please

I would say "Troll"

@thisoldtown; I gather you don't live here anymore, nor do you care to? Please tell me, why are you on the MOUNTAIN HOME NEWS site? Can't live without the gossip of what is going on around here? Just curious.

@thisoldtown... I guess I qualify as a battered soul...just remember no matter where you are there really is a place that is worse somewhere.. make the best of it. You didn't say that you lived in Mtn. Home but if you do, Welcome fellow battered soul...

I'll never understand why people go someplace they don't like and stay there complaining. For crying out loud........move on already if it's so terrible here.

Germanwill23, you should care about the product you type, it just shows what type of person you are when you put a product out there with so many errors. Who cares if no one knows who you are. You should care! The first step is to admit you need help and then use the FREE help out there. There are jobs out there (maybe not CEO type to go with your higher level education from the top HS you went to), you just need to get your "foot" in the door and prove yourself! And MH school provides a good education and the teachers bust their "Butt" to educate our children. And don't even stoop to slamming our young kids and calling them "crack heads" and pregnant. There is always one or two in every city, but MH has a good group of kids that work their butts off at jobs (that are not out there) and school!

Germanwill, go to the "help wanted" section of this online paper, there are seven jobs listed there. Certainly you are qualified to do at least one of them? If it's not your "dream" job, at least it's a job until you can find whatever it is you are looking for. Good luck!

germanwill23 ... go to the local office of the Idaho Department of Labor... on American Legion Blvd.. they can help you with resume writing and your job search.. if you don't feel comfortable with those folks you can always use one of the Boise or Meridian Idaho Department of Labor Offices... they do have services to help you return to a work...

Germanwill,

Have you applied for any jobs in Boise? This is the first time in my life I haven't had two jobs. I was actually working one job and got a call from a company that offered me another job that I didn't even apply for. They found my resume online and I ended up working for them for over a year. You need to get out and market yourself and keep improving yourself. Don't expect to start out and the top either.

jobs in this town are few and far between. ive been job hunting for 60 days and put atleaset 35 apps in to various places. why did this town deny a verizon call center, a mall, a nascar track, a nuclear power plant? why do all the older people want to keep the town small? all there is is walmart and cheese factory. and they never return my calls. i have two young children and dont want to be on unemployment or a free ride. i want to work, and i want to be an honorable part of society. and local government only talks to the senior citizens, they get money every month, and iam flat broke. i love idaho but sometimes i wish i never moved here.

What is it with renters in this town? Nobody freaking allows pets. I mean are they really that cheap to not even allow some one who probably really needs an animal companion? Or to not let some ones kid have there dog? Then they charge out the butt for a crappy place anyways. Renting in this town is a freakin joke.

Delightful, Put perfetly

MHresident ..You must be a man, by your comment: if you cant feed dont breed!. Im sure woman dont go out and get pregnet by them selfs thinking now I can go down and get foodstamps !! Alot are left no choice because the father will not help pay for THERE kids. Im a BIG beliver of HELPING! not JUDGING! I pray you never end up beenin disable or losein your job and need help.

To help you can contact the Mountain Home Fire Department or Blue Cross. They are evaluating what homes were lost and what will be needed this morning. There seems to be know injuries thank goodness.

Does anyone know who lost homes last night and what we can do to help?

RE: Waco Tribune Herald, Waco, TX, Nov 18, 2011

PUT ME IN CHARGE . . .

I direct this at the 21 year old writing that article and anyone who agrees with it...

If accepting gov't assistance check is a "conflict of interest" that prevents one from voting then our military and veterines could no longer vote nor anyone that owns or works for or has stock in any business that has ever received a bail out, nor anyone who owns, works for, or uses a bank, nor any college student receiving a guaranteed student loan...to name just a few.

That isn't going to leave very many Americans able to vote!

And this includes those who fought for your freedoms!

And a diet of beans, rice, cheese, and powdered milk does not provide much needed fruits, veggies, and whole grains required for health/life. And by rice you probably mean the cheap over processed white rice which has the lowest nutritional value of all. Are you then going to cover the costs of health care for the rickets, goiters, GI diseases, anemia, and other illnesses that will result from this diet?

Also, at 21 ...with your entire life ahead of you... what happens when you are a divorced mother with five kids and lose your job due to down sizing and are considered over qualified for minimum wage jobs? Will you and your kids be seen picking up trash on the side of the highway? Will you and your kids too be eating a diet of rice, beans, cheese, and powdered milk? (I say and your kids since you did not address child care which most single mom's can't afford for only one child with minimum wage job much less other children ...providing it is even available to start with and then often depends upon the age of the infant, toddler, or child, as well as if they are potty trained or not which physiologically occurs most often at age 3 for females and age 4 for males.

By the way, that much rice has too high a glycemic index for diabetics and those with lactose intolerance likely will not be able eat the cheese or drink milk. That leaves only beans if you are lactose intolerant and diabetic both!

Not all women can tolerate Norplants or other forms of birth control and some have medical conditions or histories which make it unsafe. And ligations are now quite permanent--SO... no having kids ever again. Also, birth control is not 100% so what's next? Mandatory abortion if you get pregnant while receiving assistance?! And how about those who have medical conditions that should not be receiving any elective non-life-saving surgical procedures? And just who is paying for all this to be done? And how do you propose to pay for the adverse events and risks and deaths that can occur with any surgical procedure or with the use of contraceptives?

As a licensed health care professional of 30 years and now disabled due to being hit by a drunk driver I find numerous flaws with your plan.

Also, most receiving food assistance do so only temporarily. It's a ton harder to get than you think!!! The majority of those receiving a gov't check are the elderly and that population is increasing as the baby boomers continue aging. After that are the physically and mentally disabled who could no more pick up trash on the side of the road than a quadraplegic. And not all disabilities are visible to the naked eye nor fixable with surgical or prescription interventions ...such as chronic pain, terminal cancer, heart dysrythmias, lung problems, blood disorders, psychiatric and emotional disorders, and so on to name just a very, very few. Just because someone "appears" capable of working doesn't mean that they are!

And when an entire family is expected to feed themselves on only 208 dollars for a whole month they do whatever they can to get by. Sometimes that means choosing a ten dollar large family sized pizza over fresh fish and vegetables! And it is difficult to say no to your kids when there is so very little you can provide them! So yes there is a tendency to buy sweets and sodas because sometimes that is the best and ONLY thing that they can do nice for their kids! And just maybe it is the child's birthday coming up or another holiday or family event that they are getting ready to celebrate! Oh wait...let me guess...the needy aren't allowed to have birthdays, sleepovers, etc. for their kids or celebrate holidays?

And sometimes the folks you see at the check out counter using food assistance are doing it for the disabled, needy, or elderly person who don't have a car or can't even leave their own home much less drive or shop! Other than ambulance rides to the ER, I've been out of my house and shopping exactly TWICE in the last THREE YEARS! I have five different families that are nice enough to do my shopping for me!

And it may be that nice car they are driving was borrowed because they don't even have one... or it belonged to them BEFORE they met with hard times and they will be driving it until it is just a rusted out old hull on wheels! Currently a person receiving certain assistance IS allowed to keep one vehicle -- and their house if lucky enough to have one.

If you haven't ever had to use food assistance or been disabled or elderly or intimately (closely) involved with someone who has then you are not qualified to make judgements or decisions on their behalf!

So for the last two days in a row we have had major fires in our community. Each time I/we have had to go to KTVB to get information and updates as to what is happening with the fire.

I am really starting to question why I even pay for a subscription to the newspaper when I can't even get the latest news on this website. For a newspaper of a small community, it sure isn't community oriented by providing its customer base with information.

I could understand the argument that "we aren't a 24 hour newspaper...." except for the fact that even a day later there was no information about the first fire.

If you can't even provide the semi-latest news what is the point of being a newspaper?

What a joke for a newspaper.

Fire 1:

http://www.ktvb.com/news/Wildfire-spring...

Fire 2:

http://www.ktvb.com/news/Wildfire-threat...

I don't post often at all, but the comments about the barking dogs prompted me, as I have had a similar problem. However,I am the dog owner.

I had my dogs for a little over a year before I was aware they were barking excessively at certain times of the day and if left alone at night. Turns out they were barking at the kids coming off the school bus in the afternoon, and if left alone in the yard after dark. My first indication that there was a problem was after I had returned home from an evening school function. There was a very ugly and threatening message on my answering machine, and a note on on the door. I called the neighbor to apologize, despite the ugly tone of his message, only to be spoken to in a very bullying manner. I, being a woman raised with 3 older brothers in one of the great American western states, do not respond to bullying in a manner that ends well for the bully. I was angry, but persisted with my apology, while the neighbor insisted that I must have been aware that this was causing him grief.

Long story short, I am a responsible dog owner. I clean up their waste when I walk them, and hush them when home to do so. Now that they are older, and in control of bladder and bowels, I close off the flap of their dog door and lock them inside when I am leaving them alone. This issue did not have to a confrontational one with my neighbor, it easily could have been worked out in a friendly and neighborly way.

Idaho Duck, talk to your neighbor before taking action against them. I could tell you a lot more things my neighbor has said and done, but won't make this post any longer. Trust me, you don't want to be that guy.

MH Resident, advising somebody to trespass onto another's property with the intent to do harm is not good advice, especially in the middle of the night. This is Idaho. You trying to get somebody shot?

Buckshot61... Great Job... @mhresident opening the gate .. really wouldn't that be trespassing at the very least, along with endangering an animal.. I guess breaking the law to correct the neighbors action ....is one way of fixing things?

Because I am a parent, and would love to see our kids in MH get envolved in something. If not soccer, then baseball, football. Just something!!!

I get tired of seeing/hearing kids/parents complain that there is nothing for their kids to do over the summer in MH.

well the MHSC is a cheap summer program twice a week. For kids 8th grade and up, there is morning workouts at the HS (FREE)7-9, 4 days a week.

thats my beef!!!!

The original post was made my the MH Soccer Club the 2nd post was made from a different user. Probably another parent... I am sure that whomever made the 2nd post would just like to make sure that the word gets out about the sign ups, practice and clinic. It's great way for the kids to stay busy this summer and stay on top of their soccer skills.

In reply to Workingbee: Let me ask you, if the neighbor allows their dogs to bark for 35-40 minutes at 3am do YOU think it would do much good to have a friendly chat over the back fense with these folks. Tell us again what you thing.

Someone please clarify for me please. If you call the police at 3am regarding barking dogs and remain anonymous because you are a neighbor and the police go by 40 minutes later and the dogs are not barking will the police stop at the house or just list the call as "no contact made"? If the police do not witness the dogs barking the caller will have to sign the ticket... correct? Clairification for all would be good. thanks.

IdahoDuck/MHresident

During the day, Mon thru Sat you can call Animal Control at 587-2111 for a much faster response and they are authorized to issue citations. This allows the cops to handle other matters, although you can call the cops as well. A third citation is a misdemeanor.

Hate to be negative but here goes- too many dogs barking in this town!!! No one needs more than 2 dogs of any size. And if you are not willing to stop whatever you are doing and see why your dog is barking non-stop then you do not need a dog at all. Even If that is in the middle of the night or at dinner time when people are trying to enjoy the outside. If my dog is barking, I go see why and make it stop however I must.

I do not even understand why people would have 3 or 4 dogs and then not take care of them! Do the animal and your neighbors a favor and find another home for any neglected barking dogs.

dane coat:

You obviously do not fall into my category of people that abuse the system. As long as this country remains in its current financial situation, so will you. I believe the current administration is responsible for this wide sepread abuse. They allow it to happen, and support it. Those recieving these benefits for nothing are the same people Obama will be relying on to vote him into office again. This is all happening at the expense of the small business people that are also suffering. When they suffer, families such as yours also suffer. Unfortunatley our government is letting this become a way of life for too many people. They will know no other way. I truely believe that if you feed a person fish for a day, he will be content for that day. If you teach that person to fish, he will be content forever.

eating out at KFC using the EBT card???That is so untrue. You can not buy hot ready food with food stamps

I wish ppl were more willing to help ppl then sit there and judge them!

I someone who lost is job of 20 yrs.Had to go get food stamps.Do you really know how hard it is to go in and get them!!! He is not LAZY!! He has put a app in every place he can in this town for 2 yrs. Still no job! He is willing to work anywhere!!.Not EVERYONE that gets food stamps are LAzy.Some hav no other choice to get food stamps to feed there kids.And to come on here and see what ppl hav posted..How very sad that you feel like you know everyone on FS.And your so perfect ,that you can judge others...very very sad!

Ok I will.

Your 46% of people with jobs don't pay any taxes, add that to the the 8 to 15 percent of the population that don't have jobs and that makes over 50% of the US population not paying taxes. I myself get tired of sending a check into the IRS every year knowing it is going to these lazy scammers that have better phones, cars, and eat out at KFC using the EBT card.

We are at the point now where 50% of the people are sucking off the other 50% that are working. It won't be to many more years that the working 50% get tired of carring the rest and want free stuff also. Then who will pay for the free money (welfare) and food stamps?

I agree that people should be forced to work 8 hours per day if they are recieving welfare or food stamps. If they don't like picking up trash on the side of the road 8 hours per day then they can go get a real job. That is incentive, I seen it again yesterday up in Boise. A lady with kids had a full cart of junk food and sodas and paid with food stamps, then right behind her was her hubby with his cases of beer and some other items and paid for with cash. Then they go into a nicer car than I have it was a 201o Lexis. They both had smart phones; it is nice to know my taxes are paying for them to have nicer things than me. Just another scam on the ACTUAL American Taxpayers.

The 50% that are actually paying.

Great post re: CA school district. Would never happen here but it is "all about the kids." Great article.

Guess what the MHSD Admin make on retirement?

Hmmmmm,

I wonder, if the A.F. were to do an inventory of backyard shops, how many government issue tools they would find from around 25-30 years ago???

Just wondering there, 5 months.

I wanted to pass along a huge thanks Chief Gridley on his retirement. He has provided protection for this community for a long time and also improved the lives of many citizens. I wish him well.

I am a veteran, but I do want to thank my husband, our 2 sons, our daughter and her husband, my brother and his son, and my husbands brother for their military service to our country To our children: Thank you for understanding what pride in your country means and for giving back some of what you have been given. Thank you for really knowing,learning and understanding that freedom isn't free. I am proud of each and everyone of you. Love you all.

SCAM ALERT! There was at least one girl roaming around town yesterday "Raising Funds" for a choir group.

It was fake, and she was arrested. If you gave to this person for books or magazines, they targeted you and you might be able to get your money back or STOP payment on a check.

Just another iteration of the classic "Your 'moral' standards ought to be the same as my 'moral' standards; if I can't convince you of that (or you disregard my nonsense), then I'm going to try to get the government to enforce those 'moral' standards for me."

None of the government's business, and always pretty bad policy:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_So...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Committee_f...

Just trollin...lived in town for 17 years. A lot of peope know me.

No adult store but we will accept same-sex marriage? Narrow-minded or double-standard?

I take my dog out quit often. I am a dog lover. BUT, I am tired of loose dogs!!!!!! I think I am going to have to act in self-defense from now on when a loose dog comes charging out at my dog and I. Is it that hard to keep them in your yard or tied up?? Please have some consideration and I will too....

I would love to plan their float for AFAD. All of this "banter" is really great PR for that shop.

When will the ribbon be cut by the Chamber? Will that make front page news?

Heaven forbid consenting adults have a fruitful, diverse, enjoyable sex life. I have news for you: no matter how vanilla your sex life, if your children know about it, it's going to disturb them. This would be why we don't discuss our sex lives with our children. We don't expose them to objectionable material. We don't take them into adult situations or adult shops. Sex exists around our kids. It's our jobs to protect them from the things we feel they need protecting from--be it magazine covers, books, movies, music, or stores.

People can be loving, responsible, protective parents and still enjoy their sexual interests. Perverts are going to be perverts, no matter what access they have to sexual materials, just like violent people are going to be violent no matter what access they have to weapons. Sexual materials and weapons aren't reserved for bad people. Quit blaming objects for the actions of people.

Itsjustme,

Life is tough you should buy a helmet or better yet don't leave your house and you won't have to face the real world.

Good parents don't sweat the small stuff as we teach our children right from wrong but don't hide things from them.

you guys are complaing about bars and adult stores affecting our children but we have sex offenderes who live near schools and live next door to children and there alot worse than a bar or adult store

Lamant,

The world must be ending we agree 100% on this issue....lol

So couples, who go to these stores, purchase merchandise, should not be around children? Really? Very happily married couples with families have the items sold in these stores....there's nothing wrong with it...teachers, drs, police officers.....you're way off with this. To each his own...I have children, been married for 13 years, and happen to shop at these types of stores....I'm successful and my children have 4.0 grade point averages. My husband and I are those people.

MHN Staff,

Could you please clear up some confusion for me? Read the article on Crazee Days. It says it starts 7 June (a Thursday) but throughout the article it says events are on May 9th. Did you mean 9 June?

I am glad to see this great local event come back and look forward to walking around town seeing the great booths.

An adult store is not going to hurt children unless they trip on a broken sidewalk in front of it....and mind you the last store that was in this town of this kind was open for many many years, across form a supermaket where children could see it....hope none of them were hurt. There are far bigger issues than this to be worrying about....The city had no reason to say no to this being able to open. It doesnt matter what it is, there's always someone who is going to get offended. And The Edge, a biker bar, is a block away fromt this exact school you speak of.....

MHG...

Your opinion of me doesn't matter. I'm not all about being "fun", I am about protecting children. Where in this town is there a bar next to a school, I am anxious to know that.

Sorry if my opinion about protecting children offends you, I happen to find children to be of far more value in this world than to expose them to things such as a porn shop. At the town meeting, we were told that the shop was going to be in "good taste", sorry, not everyone thinks porn is in good taste and I say again, that shop could have gone up farther away from any school, that the man chose to put it where he did, raises questions that have yet to be answered.

I'll be happy when it closes due to lack of business. They always do!

JRKKUNA...

No, someone didn't just happen to look up the statistics before being interviewed. No, I am NOT the person who was interviewed, I just happen to know her and know that this is a battle that has been going on LONG before the interview and one she has been helping to fight. Some people ARE interested in the best interest of the children in our town and keep close tabs on what is going on.

Are the people running this town going to run from ALL challenges to avoid a lawsuit? Seriously, the church was in the right, however, the laws on the books state that the porn shop should not be there PERIOD!

One good thing, like Ms Marilyn said, those kinds of shops don't last long around here and I for one thank God for that. Just imagine having to go there for whatever it is you want and having people stopped at the stoplight or driving by, see you there. I know about a handful of people, if that many, who would not be bothered by others knowing that they would frequent a shop such as that. That shop will THANKFULLY go under some day and the man who wants to "support his family", will have to find a different way to do it.

That shop could have been put any where, instead, he chose a spot close to TWO schools. That's just wrong!

We had received this for next week's paper and thought it would be too late so have opted to post information on the website.

"The temporary reader boards that were set up around town before the election were paid for by a political candidate. They are not the reader boards that belong to Disaster Services that you see being used for Public information at time to time. We were in no way associated with the candidate or with the political election process.

Thank you

Alan Roberts, member

Disaster Services

Elmore County.

There have been about three others in town over the years, none of which were on Airbase road. They all went away because people didn't like them and didn't support them. Just gotta try and make a buck. So many think because the Airbase is here it's a good place for this kind of business. Well, history here shows that's not good thinking.

My favorite comment in the story is "There will be an increase in child molestation, in rape, in crime, because that's what the statistics have shown." Someone just happened to look at the statistic before getting interviewed? I would love to see the statistics this person used and supposedly saw.

I don't consider the elections a total win.

yoB

Rally to Restore Sanity was awesome. All these teabaggers are just fear mongering puppets of the Koch brothers agenda, which is to obtain all the wealth in this country, they will realize that when we are all working in sweat shops for minimum wage.

Ms. Smith/yoB:

At some point in time, and it will happen, these taxing districts in Mountain Home will tax many right out of the area. Why live in MH if you can pay near the same taxes in another area, be closer to jobs, entertainment, etc.? I look forward to the day when you yourself contribute to all of this support. Then you will know/understand how hard it is to keep up with all of this expense. So wallow in what you think of as a win. Karma can be a...well you know.

Enjoy your day Ms. Smith. Always an experience.

Idahogeek,

You can laugh at what ever you want. That is one of the best things about the USA. Everyone can have their own option even if they don't agree with each other.

Laugh it up as you find it funny, I happen to find it sad.

Well it looks like the SD pulled off another one and got the sheeple to believe their lies. The 2 year temp levy is now another 2 year temp levy.

Guess what will happen to this levy in another 2 years...

Yes they SD will parade the children out as pawns again telling everyone that if you don't vote for renewal you are against the children. After all their mantra is "it's for the children".

No it is about greed and power the more they get the more power they have. If the SD didn't have a history of lies and secrets then maybe they wouldn't have to resort to using children as pawns.

The SD turning down an offer for an "independant audit" paid for by a concerned residents. Makes someone wonder what they are hiding?

Well I can't wait until they ask for another levy or bond, I'm guessing by November they will want more.

This really isn't a "defense" of Opinion Missy but take it as a defense for all BB commentators.

For all those that have negative views of OpinionMissy--let's take this into consideration--she's involved in her community. Whether her opinion or yours is the right one for the community or not is protected under the 1st Amendment. So give her credit for being involved even if you don't like her opinion. How many MHomies follow the establishment like sheep to the slaughter and never once think for themselves. I appreciate a person who takes the time to search out a truth even if their conclusion/solution may be wrong. And I appreciate that she isn't shoving it down everyones throat as a good liberal would(not saying she is liberal). She comes onto the BB and tells "her opinion". Yes, There's a bit of name calling back and forth but I appreciate it more when it comes from an informed citizen than a sheeple. You may agree with her or not but if you do disagree you better be well informed with your opinion because you can bet she will be with her answer.

This is what makes the BB interesting to read!

By the way, for all MH educated--please explain to me why we have a TRIG/Pre-Calc teacher that hasn't a clue as how to teach either subject and has to look to his students for help with the problem and answer and yet he is allowed to stay on and teach by the mere fact of his last name? Pretty sad when the students turn to each other for help to learn the subject! This is just one instance of the education problems flooding this school! I've had my children come home more times than I care to count telling me they watched a movie (not related to the subject matter) in classes or that the teacher just didn't teach and let them chat amongst themselves. My oldest came home the other day and said that Phonics should be taught all the way to 12th grade here in MH due to the fact that Seniors are reading out loud in class and cannot pronounce the simplest of words or can barely read at a thought rate higher than a 2nd grader. MH should budget cut back to the basics of education (reading, writing and arithmetic) and then rebuild from there! Everyone wants to say we need to take care of our children--it won't do any good that "Johnny" can throw a ball if he can't even read or write.

Ohhhhh, that is rich opinionmissy was educated in Illinois, all Illinois is known for corruption and misappropriation remember Blogovich? In fact in recent history 4 Illinois governors have been convicted.

Obama 2012

Yowza. Shazam. Jimany Christopher. Great balls of fire!

mh.(stop)educated.(stop)adult. Did that make you feel super duper and all warm and fuzzy. I am not sure I understood that diatribe of superiority and just general specialness.

Now I remember why I have never posted on here prior. Some of the writing on here is a good advertisement for all that is wrong in this country with education.

I voted for Corder, against the hospital, against the levy and for Nick Nettleton.

Zero chance my name is lucky or that Publishers Clearing House will knock on my door with a big, fat check, flowers and balloons.

Sometimes the largest threat to a person is the one with facts. The person who shows up to a meeting and everyone says oh God why me? That person is generally the one that threatens a house of cards. You have to wonder how 1 person can make so many so uncomfortable with their own information. Guess it pays to know the facts.

No where are those Tums?

- ELECTION RESULTS -

County Commissioner

1st District (Republican)

R. Daniel "Dan" Corbus - 324

Franklin "Bud" Corbus - 819

Courtney C. Ireland - 742

Nick Nettleton - 750

____________________________

County Commissioner

1st District (Democrat)

Brandon Beckham - 296

____________________________

County Commissioner

3rd District (Republican)

Albert Hofer - 2168

____________________________

County Commissioner

3rd District (Democrat)

Michael Crawford - 301

____________________________

County Sheriff (Republican)

Rick Layher - 2345

____________________________

School Supplemental Levy

Yes - 1791

No - 1187

____________________________

Hospital Question

Yes - 2480

No - 845

____________________________

Senate District 23 - GOP

Bert Brackett - 3009

Tim Corder Sr. - 2230

____________________________

House 23B - GOP

Pete Nielsen - 2225

Matthew Bundy - 1498

Steven Millington - 1144

I was in attendance for 2 full meetings, thank you. Let me try to explain some of the key points of misinformation for you since it is clear that you will not do it yourself, as I have done.

First, the pay cuts for the teachers were a total. For each year indicated in the packets given out, for teacher pay cuts, a percentage was listed. As an example only---the MHSD Admin. listed the cuts (again, my figure is an example only) as 2.5% for year 1. Then, for year 2, the cut was listed as 5.5%. I believe, from memory only (as I do not feel the need to dig this garbage up) that they listed a 5 year period. For each year listed, they carried the previous year's cut over to the next year. This maade the figures look like these teachers were taking a larger cut than they really were as each year included the cut for the prior year. Very much not factual.

In this same packet, the MHSD indicates that the online classes would take funding from the district. There are 3 choices for online schooling. If the MHSD chose 1 of those 3 options, they would have to pay an outside firm to teach that class. The other 2 options allowed the district to not have any costs or loss of funds. Now if they choose one of those options and choose to pay an outside firm to teach, that is on the MHSD and their choice. Online courses will also be taught by Idaho teachers---not teachers out of state.

Pay for performance. It was stated that PFP would mainly be for hard to fill positions. It is for hard to fill positions but it will also be paid to the teachers who perform---who go above and beyond. Now if there is a beef with this I guess it would be with those who decide who gets this and who does not---NOT the State Dept. of Ed.

It was also indicated that the teachers lost their ability to have collective bargaining throught the union. Not really true. Collective bargaining is still alive and well for teacher pay and benefits. For things such as bell schedules, it put the power in the hands of the local districts. Why should the state decide bell schedules? The reason this upset the MHSD so is because now when the MHSD Admin./Board are forced to set policy and the teachers are not happy, our local folks have their butts in the fire and are accountable. Very easy in the past to blame those "hard nosed, bone heads" in Boise---now, the local districts have more control and will be forced to be accountable. IMAGINE THAT!!

Enrollment numbers. The enrollment numbers listed on page 1 of the packets handed out (in 2 places on page 1) were incorrect. It listed different numbers, on the same page---DIFFERENT NUMBERS. Neither were correct. This misrepresents enrollment numbers and made them look higher than they were. This is not factual information at the hands of the MHSD.

Next. On the page where they listed the cuts, the MHSD added language which stated (my words as I am not going to hunt for these packets) things the MHSD (and this is the good part) "MAY" cut. I asked what "MAY" cut meant in that meeting. Do you recall what that answer/response was? It was stated that those cuts were things that "MAY" be cut depending on how the state funding issues were worked out/not worked out. The packet never indicated that those cuts were waiting on the funding issues to be resolved and if those matters were resolved, the MHSD would avoid their "nuclear solution."

See, the MHSD is famous for the small print and the "MAYS" in life. This "MAY" be the reason why we are where we are at today.

I would have explained this all point by point in that room that night---and there were other issues as well (nearly 2 pages worth)---but Mr. Gilbert did not want to deal with the facts that night and the smoke they were blowing up the skirts of all in that room. Shall we talk about how the MHSD handles public input? Come on...shall we? I was NOT the liar in the room that night. It was all in the research and facts from the state. But we do not deal with facts around here very well.

There is a pattern here. You are correct, I have great disdain for the people who run the MHSD. I find it sad that we, as taxpayers, do not rate high enough to be given the truth. The threats and less than truthful info from the MHSD are shameful. This is what makes it hard for the kids in this community. These are people who should be trusted but as history has proven, anything they (the MHSD) says must be checked. What they said about McKenna was not factual nor was it fair. But hey, I guess all is fair when it comes to obtaining a levy. Win at any cost.

I have said time and time again that we have some wonderful, gifted and very talented students in this school district. Some of them even blog on here. Education is what you choose to make of it.

mheducated:

Your screen name says it all. That was the best you could come up with huh? At least my info on the MHSD is factual. Research is my life and how I get through my days and my trade. I was educated in IL. Thank you.

@Justone

Have you brought this up with the district officials yet. I know I have been a pain to them from when I was on the no side. I was constantly watching what was going on at the schools in regards to levy and what they were putting on their billboards at the schools. I can tell you the principals I have seen have ensured that their teachers were not doing such activities on school grounds. Not even after school were they allowed to do this on school grounds. They were told they would have to go off campus and they did. If you have a complaint to make, call the district. I will make it easy for you as they are very easy to talk to. 208-587-2580 is the number and it can be found in the phone book. You should try calling them.

Our children deserve better...vote yes.

justone:

I am in agreement with you. Yet the MHSD will deny that it is going on. MHSD at its finest.

I think that I will register as a Republican today so I can vote for Mr. Corder.

School levy - yes

Hospital thing - undecided

idaho grown

Wrong guys quote. But anyway. I would like nothing more than have this district run by an administration that our community could place their trust and faith in. Maybe then I might be more open to the Charter School idea. But really.

A meeting before we get the results of the levy vote?? Business sense?? NO. Maybe the money from this levy is going to fund the start-up of the Charter Schools. You do know it will cost money correct? It really would not suprise me. So, if the levy is for status quo, where is the money coming from for the new schools? Another levy? And what if this fails? Any forsight with this bunch? I guess for us NO voters it comes down to the faith that we have in this admin. It is not about the students or the teachers. It is about our faith in the leadership of this dist. A NO vote would suggest NO faith, now what are you going to do about it????????

idahogrown:

Us "NO" voters have done our own research and do know the facts---they differ greatly from the info given out by the MHSD. It is really best to take the info provided on the MHSD web page and check that against what the state has.

And what an eye opener that can be for you. Do not take all that the MHSD states at face value. You will be greatly disappointed.

jrhkuna:

The "no" voters have no need for facts. In their mind the district has never made cuts, never will and continues to find ways to line their own pockets. Yes, the school district did make significant cuts PRIOR to the existing levy but "no" voters don't like to acknowledge that reality. And the reality is, state funding has not been restored to match the decrease two years ago which precipitated the need for the existing levy. We are now living with the Idaho State legislature's version of local control: we'll take your state funding away and you can ask local taxpayers to make up the difference.

Thank you for taking the time to do your own research, though, rather than just ranting in the comments section and throwing out pointed questions that you don't really want answers to.

dudewheresmycar:

"And good grief, why would they even think about opening up another school/s if they can't maintain this district."

The Mountain Home School Board discussed the possibility of changing EXSISTING schools in the district into charters. I would think all of you no voters would like the idea of the MHSD looking for ways to bring additional revenue to the district. Charter schools receive approximately $2000 more per student per year. But if your disdain for the district forces you to oppose all ideas presented, you are just hurting students who would be the ones benefiting from additional funding.

I read in the minutes that we installed energy efficient lighting. NO BOOKS, but efficient lighting? The only efficient thing in the dist. The idea of these charter schools I guess is like mommy or daddy having to get a second job because they could not stay within their budget and the $500,000 house and $50,000 cars are about to go back to the bank. At least the bank is smart enough to quit qiving them money. Lets see some accountability, responsibility and common sense before we throw more good money after bad.

You lost me at financial responsibility. Curious as to what is required for a GPA to graduate. How many classes can you fail or maintain a D. What might be the average GPA of our graduating seniors? Would be interesting to see it on a Bell Curve. What percentage of our graduates would meet entrance requirements to a 4 year University?? What percentage qualifies in the math and sciences?? Or do we consider college rediness as continuing to a community college(extended high school)?? What percentage of our graduates have excelled beyond basic entry level algebra??? What percentage have at least a year of extended chemistry or physics?? I guess may question is how many of our graduates would have to attend a junior or community college before being granted entrance to a 4 year school?? Is this district just preparing kids to be prepared to attend college? The list of so-called budget cuts mean nothing. No numbers. Did we need it in the first place? If we were wasting money in the first place I do not consider it a cut. Lets see some effort in the efficiency area. But if we truely want to be more efficient can STATUS QUO be maintained?? Looks to me like a whole lot of fat that should not have been in the budget to begin with was trimmed. Now lets get real serious and quit playing with words. This district need leaders with financial know how and a true desire to work for the tax payer, students, and teachers and get this distict and community united.

Yes, the levy is for 5.4 million dollars.

I was against the levy at first, now I am for the levy. Below is a review of why I switched my view point.

The Mountain Home School District is asking to extend the previous levy for 2 more years. Instead of asking for $2.8 million dollars each year, they are only asking for $2.7 million a year. Here is a breakdown from the school districts website.

* $2.7 Million Dollars each year, for two (2) years

$2.7 million dollars starting July 1, 2012, ending June 30, 2013

$2.7 million dollars starting July 1, 2013, ending June 30, 2014

This levy will be used to maintain class sizes, transportation, student activities/athletics, and current staffing

This levy replaces the expiring levy

MHSD is asking for less than the current $2.8 million dollar levy

The current $2.8 million dollar levy ends June 30, 2012

* No Tax Increase

It is important to note that passing this levy will NOT result in any property rates to increase. The increase has already been in place for the past 2 years. If the levy passes, the school district will be able to accomplish some important things for our children.

-ENSURE COLLEGE READINESS

-CONTINUE CAREER PREPAREDNESS

-MAINTAIN CLASS SIZE, ELECTIVES, AND ATHLETICS

-DEMONSTRATE FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Each year, the district makes changes to adapt to new federal and state requirements and enrollment changes. Aside from these changes, the levy will be used to maintain the current district operations including, but not limited to the following.

* Maintain current bus routes

* Maintain student programs

* Maintain current class size loads

* Maintain current salaries for staff

There are individuals in the local community who claim that the school district has one of the largest drop-out rates in the state. This assumption is false. Did you know that in 2011, out of 240 seniors who begun the school year, 239 graduated. In 2010, 229 out of 231 graduated. You may ask yourself, what about their entire time as high school students. Surely there has to be a larger drop-out rate. The Idaho State Dept of Education has released that 90% of all students (during their 4 years) graduated from high school in the 2010-2011 school year.

Another reason why our School District needs the levy to pass is that Federal Funding is not enough to cover federally mandated programs. The special education funding is one example. Washington DC requires the school district to provide services for special education which cost approximately a little more than $3 million dollars each year. Mountain Home School district only gets about $800,000 in funding to support these mandates. This means there is a $2 million deficit in this one area.

So what has the school district done to help prevent a levy needing to be passed? Here is a list of some of the cuts that have been made prior to 2010, when the first levy was passed.

-Building budgets cut by 20%

-Adminitration travel

-No new textbooks, only replacements

-Closed base intermediate and middle school

-Insurance liability coverage reduced by 26%

-Healthcare coverage reduced by 13%

The school district has also made a number of cuts

-Cut 1 Superintendent-Curriculum Position

-Cut Superintendent's salary

-Administrator's salary frozen

-School Nurse was cut back in 1999

-Athletic Trainer was cut in 2004

-3 Elementary counselors were cut in 2004

-AR coordinators were cut at the buildings in 2009

-9 certified teacher positions were cut/retired (2009-2010)

-17 classified positions were cut in 2009-2010

-Library Aides were cut from Elementary and Hacker

-Maintenance positions were cut

-Classroom aides have been cut

So what are the dollar figures for the cuts that have been made because of the cuts in 2010-2011?

Mainteance/Supplies $140,000

Administrator PD $10,000

Referee Stipend $9,500

Liability Insurance $5,000

Eliminated Contract Biller $5,000

Freeze Step/Lanes $84,689

Furlough Days $609,119

-5 days for Teachers/Classified Positions

-9 days for Administrators

Activities Reduced $40,000

Recertification $15,000

Substitute pay (-11%) $45,000

Natural Helpers Stipend $3,600

Extended Contracts $3,640

Asst Dir. Maintenance $52,480

Total in Cuts 2010-2011 $1,023,028

So what was cut this year?

-1 District G/T Teacher

-6 remedial or Specialized classes at Middle School

-1 Special-Ed teacher @ Base Primary

-1 MHHS Librarian

-1 MHHS/MHJHS Video Production Class

-MHHS Carpentry Class

-1 ISAT Teacher at MHHS

-2 MHHS PE Teachers

-1 Administrator

-Parents as Teachers Program

-Modified Block Schedule at MHHS

So what are we looking at getting cut if the levy is not passed? Why is it important that we get out and vote? If we vote, we are voting to keep things the way they are and not making more cuts. Here is a list of what might get cut if the levy is not passed.

-1 MHHS foreign language program

-1 MHHS Business teacher

-1 MHHS Social Studies Teacher

-.5 Base primary Kindergarten

-District Activities Director

-Reducing the number of Elementary PE/Music teachers

Do you see where the district can make any more cuts? We don't. Remember to vote YES! on May 15 for the Mountain Home School District Levy.

Seems to me that they want the levy so they can open a charter school on the sly. They need to be able to monetarily handle the system they have before opening another school.

The number of students has dropped over the last 10 years. One school closed because of not enough students. You need to get used to today's economy MHSD. We have to as regular citizens. Upper levels (McMurtrey'S and so on) in the district need to see some pay cuts also, not the teachers.

Mine is a BIG NO. Get RESPONSIBLE with OUR COMMUNITY money.

Mr. 427:

"Do you support the Blue Ribbon Commission's decision to pursue a $2.7 million supplemental levy for the Mountain Home School District?"

First, it should be pointed out that several people who were hand picked to sit on the BRC (for this levy) called for an audit of the MHSD. One person in that room even offered to pay for the cost of such an audit and the MHSD happily declined.

Second, many of the people in that room felt that cuts needed to be made and should be made but could not agree on what to cut. The MHSD was not willing to cut, the sports parents would not agree to cut back in sports and the teachers---well, they felt they had given enough.

One thing that was said by the sports parents was that they would agree to cuts in sports programs as long as the MHSD put "some flesh in the game" as well. People wanted to see that everyone took a hit in the things they thought were important. In other words, if sports took a 500K hit then the sports parents wanted to see the same hit with the MHSD (my number is just an example). Nobody could agree on where/what to cut so it was "decided" that the only alternative was to try and obtain another levy.

To say that everyone in the room was on board or agreed to this is a bit misleading on the part of the Mountain Home News. There were a great many people in this room who felt that cuts should and needed to be made. There were also people who really questioned how the MHSD was spending money. There were also people (the teachers) who felt that everything was great and could not understand why people would not support this. 2 teachers kept talking about how their pay had been cut but they were expected to do more work.

If enrollment is on a steady decline, and has been for the last 10 years, it would stand to reason that less teachers and staff are needed. Less kids = Less Money

Less kids + Less Money = Less employess

Not rocket science unless of course you are the MHSD I guess.

2.7 Million dollar levy for 2 years = 5.4 million

The MHSD likes to state that taxes will not go up. Well, taxes did go UP when they started this 2 years ago and said it was temporary. So we have paid more. The sense of "entitlement" is disgusting. I see now where our young people get it from.

The breathtaking amount of money being spent to alter the makeup of the legislature this election should make it clear what is at stake and who is really trying to run the show. The Twin Falls Times-News has an interesting account of how the campaign disclosure system is in need of serious reform, since it has loopholes big enough to drive a campaign bus through.

http://magicvalley.com/news/state-and-re...

It's about time some local newspapers covered sleazy shenanigans like these, so voters can have the information they need to make an intelligent choice on election day.

Do you support the Blue Ribbon Commission's decision to pursue a $2.7 million supplemental levy for the Mountain Home School District?

*Yes. The children and educators in this community need our support.: 34.3% (106 votes)

*Maybe, but is that $2.7 million too much or not enough?: 6.8% (21 votes)

*No. We pay enough already in property taxes.: 58.9% (182 votes)

I hope the results on Tuesday will be the same as this poll. Signed A Homeowner/Tax Payer

Yes, I see the meeting on the 10th that you are referring to, but I was asking about a meeting for the 9th.

Oh, well this is what is listed on the school website, so that is why I asked:

Daily Announcements

Sports schedules have been updated in the MHJH Sports Zone for Football, Volleyball, and Cross Country.

Lunch: Cheese Zombies / Taco Salad

Leadership "Pay it Forward" Food Drive May 1st - 8th

Levy Meeting: May 9th, 2012 in the JH Commons at 6:00 pm. All JH/HS parents are invited to attend.

Does anyone know what was said at the Levy meeting last night (at the Jr.High)? Didn't notice it in the announcements until today.

Richard McKenna is sounding better and better every day.

Mountain Home School District needs to knuckle down and take some training from McKenna in how to handle "business." No go to giving away another 5.4 million to be squandered. No books are going to be bought out of that 5.4 million?

-----------------------------------------------

Ummmm - 2.7 million @ 2 year Levy = 5.4 million.

N-----O-----T

That is what I thought, McKenna took the students the High School did not want! And then turned them into good students!

My daughter is about to graduate RMHS and my son will in a few years, and I can honestly say it was the best decision we ever made moving our kids from MHHS. The level of professionalism and education/learning at RMHS is above par is all areas. From the kids wearing conservative uniforms, lessing the drama/bullying from wearing street clothes, to the strong enforcement of the "Golden Rules" the kids must follow or be expelled. Both my children tested these rules, as all children will do, thinking its like the MHHS and nothing will be done. They learned that rules in life will be followed or consequences will be swift, something they never once worried about at MHHS. They are required to keep a 2.0 GPA or have to retake the class, MHHS didnt care if my kids passed or failed, they would just keep them moving on. I encourage all parents sick and tired of MHHS to take a tour of RMHS, you will be very impressed at what/how your kids could be learning, and quite possibly angry at MHHS for the lack of this.

Oh! Geoff, when you get home---you will have 4 more mailings in your mail box to be outraged over. If you were not employed by the MHSD you would probably be outraged at the garbage they are pulling. But hey...one thing at a time. We can only deal with so many crooks, liars and cheats at a time I guess.

Another excerpt from the April 10 MHSD meeting minutes just prior to the McKenna comments:

"Discussion began regarding the possibility of our district considering converting one or two schools into Charter Schools. We would receive about $2,000 more per student as a Charter School versus as a public school."

But it's all about the kids, right?

I vote "NO"

Does anyone know why MHSD does not allow the students at Richard McKenna to participate in after school sports at the high school? I know children who are homeschooled are allowed to participate in after school sports on MHSD teams, but McKenna students are not. My son is an athlete and I would love for him to attend McKenna, but he would lose out on after school athletics. Please correct me if I am wrong.

Mr. Murray:

Here is what your fellow Board of Trustees said--

"that the Air Force won't even accept their diploma and won't let them enlist.

Chairman Alexander said that McKenna has always been allowed to do whatever they want. He said that what he thinks McKenna has done over the years is that they weed out the students they don't want. McKenna doesn't take special needs students, which is in violation of Federal Law, and they have led a charmed life."

It does not say in the MHSD Minutes that the USAF takes a "small percentage" of students. It states that the diploma will not allow these kids to enlist. Period.

Mr. Alexander states:

"that McKenna has always been allowed to do whatever they want. He said that what he thinks McKenna has done over the years is that they weed out the students they don't want."

This is an "ironic" statement in that way back when, McKenna took the kids that the MHSD "weeded out" for one reason or another. Talk about the pot calling the kettle black.

Seems like the MHSD Board of Trustees is a bit "puckered" over the fact that McKenna has done one heck of a job. They have a brand new building that is paid for and will in the near future add on to that facility. Pretty darn impressive.

Why would the MHSD District Board trash this school in their Minutes? It says a great deal about the lack of integrity of the people on the MHSD Board of Trustees. Do any of you have any shame?

For being "All About The Kids" things sure are ugly on the part of the MHSD Board of Trustees towards McKenna. McKenna students are also the future of this country and should not be made to feel like anything less.

Guardian,

You are correct, graduates of Richard McKenna have enlisted in the Air Force in years past.

Recently I was quite surprised when I had a young man who I thought would do very well in the Air Force inform me he could not join the Air Force. I asked him why he could not join the Air Force and he informed me he was a graduate of Richard McKenna. In my previous experiences that should not of prevented him from joining the Air Force. I called the Military Entrance Processing Station in Boise and I was informed Richard McKenna was no longer a Tier 1 school and had been changed to a Tier 2 school for the Air Force

What this means now, a graduate from Richard McKenna falls into the same category as someone who only has a GED. Yes, a Richard McKenna graduate can still enlist in the Air Force, but in years past the Air Force caps the number of enlistments from the Tier 2 category at 3% of their annual goal. Once the Air Force reaches the 3% they will not allow anymore Tier 2 applicants to enlist for the year.

AFI 36-2001 is the recruiting regulation for the Air Force and here is the link

http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/shared/me...

Paragraph 2.12.5 covers the Tier group's

The intent of the alternative school is to better the district and to give a group of kids a different learning experience but still provide them with a diploma that is accepted as an equal to all High School diplomas

William Murray

Open mouth very very wide. Insert foot. Very powerful.

Bearhunter: thanks for the update on Atlanta news. However, you seem a little annoyed this is old news and some/most news from Atlanta isn't getting reported. Seems like you have a few options to get information out in the public. Keep on reporting here or other local websites. You could also start your own website???

Finally, in the Idaho Statesman, a story was published about the Atlanta Quick Response Unit and the ECPA filed charges against Kathy Makin for embezzling 11,000.00 from the QRU account. This happened back in June of last year and they are just now getting around to filing charges. She has not been arrested but there is an arraignment on the 23rd. She was quoted as saying that this was not newsworthy and would be handled privately. That the money would be put back. What a crock. She stole public money and has a criminal record a mile long and the county is waiting for what???? There are a lot of people tired of locals breaking the law in Atlanta and nothing is done about it. I hope the commissioners are following this and think seriously about the viability of having a QRU there.

Geek--not scare lore but fact. I didn't receive any emails about the treaties so I can't comment on those. Obama followers--the couple that runs Snopes.com and Huffington post--oh yea, they'll tell you what Obama wants you to know.

http://m.washingtontimes.com/news/2010/m...

http://www.tester.senate.gov/Newsroom/pr...

http://www.usnews.com/news/blogs/washing...

Scare Lore, just keep believing this Cr*p, republicans are such a bunch of lemmings heading toward the cliff--Bon Voyage!!!

"Arms Trade Treaty" will allow the UN to control guns in America and essentially wipe out the 2nd Amendment

A quick search of the Internet (on Feb 8, 2012) confirms that the treaty is highly controversial in the United States and has been fodder for political speeches, blogs, viral political e-mails and advertisements claiming or insinuating that the treaty provides a "legal way around the 2nd amendment," and a "complete ban on all weapons for U.S. citizens." Snopes.com, the "urban myth" tester, calls the viral e-mail "scarelore" and false.[14] The Huffington Post reports that "such a scenario remains virtually impossible."[15] The Los Angeles Times reports on October 23, 2011 that "only a narrow fringe purports that Americans could see their guns taken away by the U.N., which has no authority over constitutional rights."[16]

Obama 2012, wish I had heard this much negativity toward a president when little Hitler Bush was taking away our civil freedoms, and getting us into a war that had nothing to do with Al Qaeda (Iraq), plus giving away the countries wealth to Wall Street.

OpinonMissy, you are about the most negative person I have ever heard, nothing positive ever is written by you, I feel sorry for you. You must be a real peach at parties.

Once the republicans cut Education, transportation, social services, and everything else the repubs want to cut I'll be happy to see who comes crying on here when the states raise our taxes to death to cover these expenses, someone has to fix roads & infrastructure, and take care of the indigent, and since it won't be the federal government, who will it be? Sure won't be Wall Street!

P.S. Think about it, our police and firefighters they are a form of social democracy, people pooling tax money together to perform a social service, protecting our community, guess since social is part of the equation they won't be supported under the republican doctrine, otherwise it would a hypocritical.

One has to respect the position, not the man or woman in that position. Respect is earned, not just handed out to a person because they have a certain position. Think of it like this: Just because Hitler was the leader of a country didn't mean everyone had to respect him.

OM Isn't your Husband stationed here?

Ooppps. forgot the part about military town. This is a military town---ALL the more reason to not support Obama as he has NO respect for our military men and women.

Respect is earned.

I went to the Post Office today and was very offended by what I saw out front. There were 2 people set up outside with derogatory signs and information about our President. They had even drawn a "Hitler" moustache on President Obama's face! I am all for freedom of speech, but this man is still our President and should be respected simply for that- especially in a Military town! I am surprised that a government facility would allow bashing against our President ! Tacky.

Really?? Impeach Obama?? Would it not be less expensive and as effective to vote him out in November?

I'm pointing out that people like Butch Otter's chief of staff-turned-Idaho Power lobbyist and his cronies at the "Idaho Prosperity Fund" are, for the second or third time, trying to install their own tool in place of the Senator the voters of Elmore County chose in the last three elections. That the Republicans chose to limit voter participation is something that makes that job easier for people who have anything but the interests of Elmore County voters in mind. Add to that the thousands and thousands of dollars being spent to influence the outcome of this election and you can plainly see who's trying to dictate- it ain't me, it's the secret revolving door group of sleazy lobbyists who want to tell you who to vote for. I'm just pointing out who's really behind this, and what people need to do if they want to have a senator who will work for them and not check to see what Idaho Power's lobbyists want him to do.

http://m.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/2012/...

Here's Betsy Russell's excellent article on the potential effects of the Republican Party's decision to close the primary. Maximum voter participation has never been more important:

http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/201...

Meanwhile, she also calls attention to the Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry's second attempt to take away our voice in the Idaho Legislature, Tim Corder. In 2008, they spent over $11,000 on that effort, including sleazy fliers misusing the US Army uniform. I bet they've tripled that this year trying to get Butch's stooge elected instead.

http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/201...

goat:

Zook "retired." He still comments but he was tired of beating his head against a wall. Look for him on the range. He is out there.

Holy Cheese and Rice Batman, this is insane! Some people are letting this get a little heated and in my humble opinion "out-of-hand." If you dont like the levy, this is gonna be a radical notion...Don't Vote For It!!!! I mean if you are that bent about it, seems like an easy fix. No one is holding a gun to anyones head, and the ugliness is a downer. Let's all take a deep cleansing breath and let it go. Spend more time living life and less time full of angst! Just sayin is all.

No Nomad, it will not because that person is probably related to someone either on the MHSD Board or is related to one of the people at the MHSD office (in Admin).

Just like talking about the levy in class and how stressed these teachers are about their jobs, etc.

Not appropriate for the classroom. But we will deny that too even when a student writes about it right here on this paper. Let us not forget the MHSD employee who blogs while on MHSD (Our) dime. Clearly against MHSD policy but is being allowed. It is no wonder why some of these kids can't pass a standardized test.

Should I vote for a levy to keep unknowledgeable teachers who have to look off their students class work to see how the math problem is done. Pretty sad for our students when the Trig/Pre-Calc teacher doesn't even know what he's doing. Will the levy help replace these teachers?

Last thing we want to be around here is clear. It is much better to just sweep things under the rug and hope nobody takes notice.

This school levy is a big fraud. And Tiger, if you really look at things (ie the budget), very little was really cut---things were just redistributed and a levy was obtained. The MHSD is doing "without" very little---it is the kids that have the short end of the stick in this game. It is a big shell game. Mr. Ogborn moves money here and there and then can't explain where the "extra" money from the last levy has gone. Ya know---the "overage" from when the levy went through and what the state gave back in funding. There should have been a surplus waiting in the wind. Oh yeah! What about that?

And how about those MHSD Board Minutes (most recent). You guys did a bang up job slandering McKenna and did not even know what you were talking about---were not even a little bit factual. You are all a bunch of liars and blow hards who want to pass off the bad job that you have done (collective "you") and try to tarnish the image of the school in this area that really is ALL ABOUT THE KIDS. Nice job. Is this what you people resort to when you have nothing factual to bring to the table? You need some lessons in truth and integrity---all of you. You should be ashamed. You should all have the best interests of the kids at heart---but that is not the case. At least admit that.

What happened to bazooka man?

Yes midea, you are correct. However our local paper chooses to portray the pig ear as a silk purse.

The levy is for 2 years and will cost 2.7 million per year for a total of 5.4 million. Now how hard was that to string into a sentence?

Uncomon Sense makes a lot of sense.

And somehow the administration has turned this into taxpayers vs. teachers. Genius on their part. They do this by holding the money for the classroom over everybodys heads. Taxpayers and teachers should be on the same side. Don't blame the taxpayers for taking from the classroom, blame the administration.

Charter schools such as McKenna are unable to go for a levy.

We can only hope that Courtney McNicholl/Hiler/Ireland does not make it to ECC. She was bought and paid for by AEHI/Don G. when she sat on P & Z (along with at least one other on the P & Z) and could not even give an honest representation of what she stands for to this paper. Last thing we need is Courtney Ireland in a position of power or authority.

Courtney is out for Courtney. She did not care about this community while on P & Z...not likely to care about this community as an ECC. You want a sell out, vote for Courtney.

Several years ago I could afford a beautiful vacation with stylish accommodations and excellent cuisine. It was a beautiful cultural experience that I will cherish forever. This year it's not within my budget. I cannot afford it without asking for a loan. Should I ask for a loan? No.... I will budget for the current economy and hope my future sees better times in the future. Should the school district ask for a loan? No! They should budget with the ebb and flow of the economy just like the rest of us!

Corrupt is going a bit far. I don't believe anyone is accusing the admin. of corruption. Toward the end of 2007 you would have had to of been completely asleep to not see the residential construction collapse looming. Lending agencies corruption was all over the news. It was very apparant that a big bomb was about to explode, and destroy our economy/real estate market. What pays for the schools?? Property taxes. Hard to collect property taxes from a forclosed piece of property. Thus, if the captains of our sinking ship would have had any forsight at all lets see where we might be. Nearly $2.0 million 2007-2008, nearly $2 million 2008-2009, nearly $2 million 2009-2010, nearly $2 million 2010-2011. Total nearly $8 million. Cost of levy, nearly $6 million. Result of forsight. Nearly $2 million in the black with no levy.

Don't worry OM,

The MHSD will continue to balance it's budget by employing the "Do more with less" strategy. I think this means, teachers do more for less compensation. Eventually, this unrealistic, business model approach will ask it's loyal educators to "Do everything for nothing."

The educational house of cards will tumble down before this actually happens; but, rest assured, you'll still have Tiger football.

From 2010 to 2011, MHSD reduced expenses $1,843,795.

$1.84 million cut from their expenses. Exactly how much more do you expect can be cut before there is satisfaction that all the "fat" is gone?

Did the crew (i.e. teachers) or passangers (i.e. students) even know the ship would go down before they were rescued?? The ship did't even have enough life boats (i.e. books and supplies) for them all while waiting to be rescued. What great planning on the Captains and Administrators part.

Kiss it Observer. Was told what I was told. I vote in nearly everything else---not likely that I would have missed that. From what I can remember about that election---there were many issuse with respect to borders and I was not the only one. I am sure that is of record as well.

Let us not deal with that facts that surround your beloved MHSD. Sorry, I do not feed the bears not the trolls.

Funny Observer:

When I went to vote, they put me in Zone 3---said I was right on the border according to the map they had. Can't fight the poll jockeys. If you do indeed check the voting records, I think I have voted every time since I have lived in MH. Glad you are so interested. Stalker perhaps?

Observer:

I live in the county---not that district. Nice try. I could have been one of the votes, I suppose, that did not count (or was not legal). At least have your facts straight.

I will have to read that. I wonder if the nature of this audit is to make sure State rules and regs are complied with?? I believe OM is refering to an audit that would identify any large holes in the districts financial bucket that could be patched.

Oh, and one other thing! Let us not forget the seating of CD Houston on the MHSD Board (as a Trustee), Mr. Murray congratulating Mr. Houston on his win, the MHSD Board seating Mr. Houston and then deciding that because he was not going to "bow" to Mr. Alexander---they would remove him (or perhaps it was the color of Mr. Houston's skin). It went to Court. A bond had to be posted and a member of the MHSD Board of Trustees posted that bond (and a huge bond it was). Yep, it is all about the CHILDREN! Yep, it is all about the children and how they can get by on less because the poor teachers and MHSD admin need more. Come on now.

jdvann-that levy was supposed to be temporary---the MHSD promised to get their finances in order. While we may pay no more (and the current levy proposed is for less than last time by 200K) why have they not cut their spending? Shoot, they cannot even get their story straight on where the overage from the last levy went---after the state gave them some of their funding back. After a period of time this levy will go to a vote and could be just a way of life around here. Where is the accountability?

Under current management, the district will ask the tax payers for funds to purchase the gun and single bullet.

My oldest graduated in 98, and all during his jr. high and sr. highschool years (90's) we heard the same thing; can't bring books home because we don't have enough books. I don't believe books will ever be a priority, but it always sounds good when a levey or tax issue comes up. LOL.

You are right, taxes stay the same. Charters schools Take money from the regular SD. I wish you guys would get over your hatred of the SD and see who you are really hurting by saying no and that is the kids. They are the ones losing out because the school cant get books and supplies. I am voting yes cause I care about MY students.

When is Elmore County going to do something about what is going here in Atlanta??? People getting drunk and crashing into each other on snowmobiles, slap on wrists. Vehicle accident s not reported, slap on wrist, battery and guns being shot, no charges. Embezzlement from the response unit account,no charges and nothing being done. Fights in the bars, nothing done. Building without permits, nothing done. someone had better start paying attention

So. The Mountain Home School District, as many of you know, will be going for yet another levy on May 15, 2012. I would encourage all who vote and/or pay taxes in this community to review the last several MHSD Board Minutes (found on the MHSD web page) and see what they are up to and what they would like to do.

Here is something that may be of interest to those of us who are tired of "status quo" with respect to the MHSD and out of control spending:

"The Board then discussed the benefits of our school district starting an alternative school to help those students struggling academically. They spoke about how the alternative school might operate and how to ensure that our alternative students would still be able to take some of the Vocational-Technical classes that are offered to the other high school students. Mr. Gilbert informed the Board that the alternative school would basically fund itself because alternative schools are funded about the same as

charter schools. He concluded by mentioning that our district might want to consider changing a

couple of our schools into charter schools, which would benefit students and the district, but he wasn't sure what all was entailed with changing to a charter school, what the legalities would be, and the pros and cons of doing such."

Really? This is what is in store for those of us who pay taxes?

Still a no vote here.

Went to my lender today to apply for a line of credit for 2.7 million. They asked what the money was to be used for. I replied status quo.

I was denied.

county_aware

What an awful thing to post! Regardless of what kind of man he might have been, show some basic courtesy and respect! I'll include you in my prayers, that your heart might be softened.

I have not often read or had much use for the Banter Box. It seems to breed negative comments. However, I was reviewing the comments today and could not let this go. There were comments regarding a deputy's vehicle dropping off kids at a residence where there was another patrol vehicle. Let me throw out a couple of options for you to think about.

I KNOW the following situations have occurred, as I know several employees of the Sheriff's Office. There have been times when just before the end of a deputies shift, he has been sent out on an emergency call such as a fatal crash, causing them to work what will become several hours of overtime. Since these are last minute, emergency situations, daycare at the last second is impossible. Being in Law Enforcement is mostly a thankless job and these guys are a group that will not only give their life for you, but will give their life for each other. This includes taking care of their children if necessary.

My point is please don't speculate on their job.

To "gmoney", consider what you would do if, your first response person is tied up on an emergency call and the on call deputy is not able to respond to you because he only has one vehicle which his wife has at work. If you had a policy prohibiting him to take his children to another deputy's home, well he would not be able to respond. Just a thought. I for one know how little they are paid and if dropping their kids off means a benefit, go for it. There are a few deputies that actually qualify for state financial assistance due to the low pay. It is sad they will give their life for you, but you're concerned about kids in their vehicle and have no idea as the reason. I agree with contacting the Sheriff before making any assumptions.

Former Elmore County Commissioner Larry Rose passed away yesteday....My deepest sympathies to his friends and family....He was a good man.

LOST: Grey white and tan cat, her name is mossup, she went missing saturday the 21 from 390 N 9th East (American leigon & N 9th East), she is a bit over weight and is a house cat....If you have found or seen her please call 208-599-3825 (Stephanie)or 208-599-3916 (Roy). Thank you

Do not know how many out there knew Katherine Taylor who worked at DeMeyer Furniture but she has passed on. What a neat lady! I bought all of my furniture from her. She was such a bright spot in the furniture experience. She loved to decorate and always knew what to put with what you purchased. She would even come out to your house and help you if you wanted it. Katherine, you will be missed. Sympathy to both the DeMeyer and Taylors. Raymond, she adored you and I know you adored her as well.

What a great lady and friend. God bless you Katherine.

Thank you for your response, Brenda. I keep getting this on Facebook by different people every day and it just seemed odd to me that Google showed nothing and I had not heard anything on the news.

Why is the mainstream media not picking up on things like this? http://video.foxnews.com/v/1559340327001...

Just wanted to let everyone know that the animal shelter has a new web site. It is www.cmhas.weebly.com

Go check out the BRAND NEW web page and leave us a comment about what you think in our guestbook!

Have a great day

Shelter Volunteer

All you have to do is call one of your county commisions and ask them the rule of the county vechiles are. I have a friend who family member works for the city and they said that the family member cannot ride in the city vechile. Most of these rules have tod o with insurance. But call one of your county commissionier.

I wish a tornado would touchdown and whisk Mountain Home away! Now THAT would be a news story worthy of print! I wonder how many stories about the elementary school events are in THIS month's issue? Let me guess, the kids will be making Mother's Day Cards this month. How EXCITING!!!! Worst journalists ever.

I'm glad to see their are so many supporters of misusing our Tax dollars, you must all work or have worked for a local government agency. The next time your first response vehicle is late in arriving because they were dropping of their kids remember your comments.

My first choice was to email the sheriff but his address was not on their website. This banter box was second choice.

I believe Elmore County is a lot like other agencies throughout the country.

The use of patrol vehicles is allowed as they get paid very little and is considered parts of their benefits.

Also, by allowing Deputies or City Officers the use of the vehicles when they are off duty it shows that there is a larger law enforcement presence than what actually may be on duty at that time.

This in turn helps reduce crime.

So a county vehicle drops off a couple of children at a residence,BIG DEAL. It's not like our county employees make big bucks. Most employees make about 50% less than Ada or Canyon county employees do for the same jobs. What our Deputies get in comparison to Ada Deputies is disgraceful. Our Deputies face the same dangers as theirs do.

So what if their kids get a ride home. Who knows the circumstances? Maybe they were doing community service. Stop being so petty.

VicVega

Thanks for posting!! It's so great to hear this scumbag's in prison! I hope the woman can recover from this heinous crime!

30 year conviction - good!. I didn't see this anywhere on the MH News:

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/04/11...

Susan TN, your friend might check out http://www.disabilityrightsidaho.org/ and see if they are eligible for services through them. Also, consider a community fundraising event--there are probably lots of people who would be happy to donate time/materials/money if they knew about your friend's situation. Any church or organization your friend is connected with would be a good place to start asking for fundraising help.

Dear Person Who Honks Their Horn Repeatedly,

I almost feel like I know you, PWHTHR. Every morning at 7:30ish, you start. Your friend who lives in the apartments near the Freedom Lanes bowling alley must be habitually late, because you have to honk at them so many, many times each day. Honk. Honkhonkhonk....hoooonk. Honk honk! Where are you going, PWHTHR? Work, I can only assume. Why do you honk at your friend? Do they ignore their phone and alarm clock? Why don't you knock on their door instead? Ring their doorbell repeatedly? Have you ever though of just...leaving without them? These are the questions that haunt me as I get ready in the morning, PWHTHR. Someday I hope to solve this mystery...

@ Susan/TN....it would depend on what types of insurance your friend has. Private insurance , medicaid etc...There are limitied options, but I may be able to offer advice with more information. (I have worked in home care as a social worker)

I went to the museum a few months ago. The lady that helped me was so sweet and tried very much to find the picture I was looking for. We went through a lot of pictures, however they didn't have it. I've been trying to find a picture of the El Rancho.

Good luck I hope they have your picture :)

Thanks dink, couldn't find it anywhere.

Okay so what is going into the old Kings Building?

Have you ever seen someone talking to themseslves on the blogs using different "handles"??? I have. And they have their noses so far up (in the air/someone's asp) it's pitiful. What a funny read!!!

Thoughts and Prayers to the family of the lost Gunfighter!!

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/03/28...

Observer,

I can't...seems I passed the Integrity Test and I kept bumping into stuff with that blindfold they make you wear at their meetings.

Contact Tom Thomas on Birch Ave (between Taco John's and Marathon Cheese). He is great with small engines and chain saws.

Best wishes,

OM

The place you stated on Airbase road doesn't seem to ever have the gate open so not sure if they are in business any longer. Hubby was there the other day and then went there 3 different times today throughout the day. Guess I am going to have to look elsewhere for small engine and chain saw repairs. Thanks for the suggestion though.

Assessed housing values have gone down in Mountain Home during the recession (anyone claiming their house has not lost value is Pinocchio). This is based on recent changes to my monthly mortgage payment sent from my mortgage holder.

*Think of a MasterCard Commercial:

Assessed decline in property value-DECLINE IN PROPERTY TAXES: SAVINGS--23 DOLLARS A MONTH

Resulting change I made in Homeowners insurance reflecting assessed decline: SAVINGS--9 DOLLARS A MONTH

FACT: Total SAVING A MONTH 32 DOLLARS ON MY MORTGAGE PAYMENT

People Claiming Property Taxes keep going up in Mountain Home---PRICELESSLY STUPID!

2.7 million body levy vs. 2.8 million, a little bit more in savings--PRICELESS

Workingbee,

Just for the sake of argument,...pay nothing for what you disagree with.

Demand reorganization.

Tell the gas station you're not going to pay what the station needs to stay in business. Tell the breadmakers that you think they're charging too much. Tell the plumber and the policeman that you don't think their services are worth their price.

I suspect, the people you don't pay will quit paying attention to you...AKA you're not going to get what you don't pay for.

Nothing personal...

If you think education is a rip-off; then vote to that effect.

Not all businesses are for profit (many non-profits out there that are still businesses). McKenna CHS is run like a business. They managed to build a brand new, nice facility and paid that same facility off BEFORE the maturity date. Now, they are building again---and SAVED the money for that (project is already paid for). Funny how Mr. Slade seems to be able to do so much and stick to a budget. Now that group is doing something right and the kids that attend that school---clean the common areas (not bathrooms) and take pride in what they have. Imagine that!

As far as MHSD not being able to be run on a "business model" I once again disagree with you. Our schools provide a service---much like a business. To some degree, they do "profit" as they always seem to have "reserve" funds here and there and "rainy day" funds as well as "investments." Heck, they even have a "budget!" They do not seem to be able to balance it...but they have one.

A business just like a school can be "voted out." It is called nobody goes to it/uses it and it is put out of business. No there is an interesting concept. No money to run so ya close up shop. Would it not be better to scale back (like 10 years back when enrollment was going down) and try to perhaps stay in business? Certainly if a business had less people to service they would not try to maintain the staff for a higher populus knowing they had less peopel to serve. That would be bad business, right? Why would payroll grow if less people were being served?

As for your skeleton theory---and things being "cut to the bone"---if the "cuts" had been true cuts, that would be one thing. We (the voting public) were lied to on what was going to be done. The MHSD did not follow through. Now, we will be asked to vote for a levy yet again!

How is this a solution? How does a levy "fix" what is broken in the MHSD system? A levy is nothing more than a finger in a hole on a leaking boat. The budget needs to be balanced and cuts MUST be made. I would suggest that the bones get picked clean---starting with Admin. and then start making cuts---REAL cuts---and get the budget balanced. We all want steak for dinner but now all we can afford is Ramen. The sooner we realize this, the better.

The more people are willing to pay this District, the more they take/spend. Cut them off and I promise they will figure out their budget issues. Maybe a good place to start is performance based pay for Mr. Ogborn. He makes over 90K a year and is in charge of the district finances. That is part of the skeleton that can go for sure along with ALL of the people who go along with this over spending that make it so that the MHSD "can't afford" to buy books and "can't afford" to repair buildings that have been "old" for over 25 years.

Come on. A levy of 2.7 million PER YEAR for 2 more years is NOT the answer. None of us in this community like the idea of cuts (real, factual cuts). However, every business in this community has had to make cuts (less pay, less employees, less of a service area, less service, etc.). Our schools are no different. If the people in charge are not willing to make changes that are NEEDED, then we need new people who will do what is right. They days of keeping your pals employed are few and short boys. Another levy is NOT the answer.

OM,

I'll always consider another's opinion...try to give it proper weight, compare and contrast it to mine, and try to find common ground.

I believe , as well, that, when an argument starts to name Names, and/or claims abuse or benefit without stating specific evidence to support the claim, then the argument gets kinda personal.

I don't think schools can be run on a "business" model because businesses exist to make profit...schools provide service; not profit. Businesses can accept or reject raw materials, schools cannot. Businesses can declare bankruptcy, suspend their debt and reorganize. Schools cannot.

On the other hand, businesses cannot be "voted" out of existence. Schools can.

If/when the levy fails to pass, and the district loses approximately 10% of it's current operating budget...what will be cut? Only the board knows. But; if you are already cut to the bone because of previous cuts, which part of the skeleton would you chop off?

Can anyone tell me who "in mountain home" works on chain saws? Ours is being a real pain in the backside and now won't run at all. Your help would be much appreciated.

WorkingBee,

You don't buy an education system the same way as you buy a car/house/or loaf of bread. You don't buy a sewer system, a water supply, a constabulary or a fire department to a point where you don't pay any more because you own it.

Your car, house, loaf of bread is a product...not a service. If you quit paying for services, they stop.

If you don't want your waste to be carried away, if you don't want to dig your own well, if you don't want to pay for gas/electricity, if you don't want to pay for bread; then just go on and be all you can be...drowning in crap, drying of thirst, generating your own power, and grinding your own meal.

Go ahead and be your independent self...I'm okay with that.

But, if that's how you feel, then don't complain because you choose to live in your own sewage, amongst bad guys who'll never be locked up, while lighting your home with lard and tallow candles. And, oh yeah, your kids can't figure out how backwards they are because they can neither read, nor count beyond your kitchen table home school, independent self.

JYD.. "continued(not more) support"....continuing to pay is paying MORE... I don't continue to pay my car loan after the date the bank and I agree too, just because I think the bank needs it. .... as far as "Pay for what you get".. this school district which is in "fiscal decay", does not give me the same option as all my other goods and services, if it doesn't meet my standards, I can't sent it back to the chef nor can I return it.. so what I get for money doesn't apply here.

...and so it begins. I see Parent Teacher conferences are slated to begin March 22. I am willing to wager the Mountain Home School District takes a page from the Boise School District's Political Playbook and has some absentee ballots ready to go during those one-on-one conferences with parents. They'll have ready made well scripted pleas asking parents to vote yes on the levy or the teachers will lose their jobs. Perhaps Mountain Home will do as Boise did and target those residents with a history of supporting the district to ensure the voting goes in the favor of the district. BSD beat the drums at the ice cream social, sporting events and school plays. Why one school even had an ice cream social for the parents on voting night. You must vote yourselves a tax increase or we'll lose our jobs, the parents were told. Oh, the tactics of the Boise School District weren't illegal. Immoral to be sure, but not illegal. After all, the proponents of the tax increase had face time with the parents but no equal time was allotted to counter their argument by those who questioned the need for another levy. Pay no attention and never you mind that our tax dollars pay for the teachers dues to the union, pay the districts fees to belong to NAFIS, pay the cell phone bills of administrators not to mention the travel and credit card reimbursements to the tune of tens of thousands of our dollars. Pay no attention because it's all for the children. It is with sincere hope the residents of our fair city understand the scope of the issues at hand. Go to the Mountain Home School District website at http://www.mtnhomesd.org/education/distr.... There on the left hand side you will find a link titled Business and Financial Information. Hovering your mouse over that link and you'll find a link titled Monthly Expenditures, click it. I invite all of Mountain Home to examine the documents on that page closely and ask yourselves if all those expenses make sense to you. Most of them do, but many don't, at least not to me. Add up the total of the expenses that you question or that don't seem necessary and then ask the District for an accounting. Before voting yes please ask yourself has the District done all it can to eliminate waste and reign in spending? Is it truly about the children or is it about funding the unions and the large salaries of the administrators? With enrollment declining, do we really need another tax increase?

OK the dog has gone home, Thanks Brenda and https://www.facebook.com/CMHAS

midea--after the headline concerning this flag, should have been the headline--the President condemns the altering of the American Flag! Of course, that headline would only come from a true American patriot, who truly has respect, honor, and love for this nation. Not a peep from the WH so every American should realize this man and his administration MUST GO! Vote them all out and take back this country!!

Midea and OM,

He promised change during his campaign and change he has provided. This is not the first time he has disgraced not only the US but the veterand that have fought for the US. I, for one, am tired of his change and plan on not voting for him.

Have we become so dumbed down, so apathetic that something like this means nothing to so many people? http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/03/14/us-...

Anybody who goes to a car sale on those flyers that come in the mail are looking for something for nothing. Ever notice how every one has matching numbers? And KR doesn't put those out,he and the other dealers in town hire those advertising agencies to do that work. Their own sales people hardly even work the sales, the agencies bring their own high pressure people with them. I have had a lot of dealings with KR and I could never badmouth him. He's always treated me fairly. Just stop by and talk to him. He'll take time out of his day to see you, he's that kind of person. If you got a better deal in Boise........so be it. That's not always the case. I never have. My deals have been comparable. Know what you want, what it's worth and avoid paying spiffs. Buy the vehicle and only the vehicle. Forget all the extras, theft avoidance, Gap insurance, extended warranties etc. Just buy the vehicle and you'll do as well at our Mtn. Home dealerships as anywhere else.

Mr. Pratt, why would new rulings concerning taxes on real estate sales even be in a health care bill in the first place? And don't you think the rules concerning this sales tax could be easily amended once its in the bill and entered into law?

To everyone, before you get your shorts in a knot, read this!

http://financialducksinarow.com/4100/the...

Fantasy Author, I guess we know where you work. If you expect us to believe, 250 people swammed "Performance" the first day, you do have the correct nick name, "Fantasy". I have talked to 5 different people and they all said same thing, no one was at the dealership on day one (not a crowd), so to say 250 swammed them in one day!!!!! If that is what the dealership meant, they should state "first 250 people", not "you are a winner, come down to receive your prize". I would say this is a mis-advertisment and kinda crooked!

Im glad others noticed the request to lower my standards to accommodate how poorly most, not all, of the businesses in this town are at pricing and customer service. Is this truly whats expected, lower your standards, and youll be amazed at how "good" everything is... wow. And I wont list any businesses just because of the amount of space here. I will say this, the restaurants act as though they are doing me a favor by providing a service, poorly, that I pay for. The stores feel their prices are competitive, and by no definition of the word are they. The gas stations are usually higher by 5-10 cents than Boise, the excuse, we have to pay since we are "out of the way" for delivery. While, Buhl is cheaper than here, seems they are more out of the way. The dealerships do not compete, they are sharks. The Sings are a perfect example, the local dealers only sold a few vehicles to them, then the Sings realized how bad the prices were and took their business to Boise. Now with that, I have found a few places, few, that I have done repeated business with. I apologize if my last comment inferred I meant all businesses here were poor across the board, I didnt mean it as a blanket statement. As for my subordinates, it is my job as a supervisor to look out for them and help ensure they make the best choices, spending time and money being two of them. I guess it would have been easier to list the businesses now, oh well.

To Whom It May Concern,

I bought a used SUV at Performance Chevrolet in 2001. Liked it, still drive it.

I bought another SUV from the same place in 2009. Like it, still drive it.

Guess where I'm going to look for a used pick-up?

So Joe...people should lower their standards so that some of the business practices in this community equal up (expect less and get less)? That is really smart. Scoutin, I agree with you and some of the others. Some businesses in this community just do not deserve the business. We have 2 cars and a truck. The 2 cars go to Boise for any work...the truck goes to a local shop where customer service is still an art form (if he would work on the 2 cars...we would have him do that) and the owner is good at what he does and very honest. I do not think that lowering expectations solves the real problem.

I have been to 3 places here in town about purchasing a vehicle.

MH Auto Ranch had a nasty finance guy who got in my hubby's face when we told him we needed to think about purchasing a truck.

Performance Chevrolet had a salesman whom I talked to was unprofessional in talking more about how bad MH Auto Ranch was then selling me a vehicle.

Thrifty was the only place that treated us with any respect, but then didn't stand by their 30 day policy on a vehicle we had purchased.

I buy from Mountain Home with every chance, but I still agree that buying a vehicle here is upsetting all the way around.

I have bought 3 new vehicles from Performance and had quite a bit of service work done (Oil Changes) and 1 bad fuel gauge and never had a problem.

Even with a flyer, we would never have gone to that dealership to get a car. Many years ago when we were looking at a car there, we decided to think about it over night. The salesman told us and let me quote him "I'm going to do everything I can sell that car while you try to make up your mind". We never went back.

We went to Grant Peterson, which is where we SHOULD have gone in the first place because they had always done my family right over the years. Good service, good people, good car and no one trying to force us to make a decision on a car by telling us they were going to sell it before we made up our minds.

Yankeezz

We got the flyer and husband went the next day......Guess What? They were out of prizes

Yankeezz,

I have my own personal thoughts on the dealer you speak of from my own experiences. Just think if they would have given you the prizes and were polite and helpful you might have given them serious thought when you bought your next vehicle. Now I bet you won't go there and you will tell everyone about your experience and them even if they don't realize it will have a suspicion about them if they are looking for a vehicle.

The dealership shot themselves in the foot on this issue; this is why I throw those adverts in the trash. They are not worth the paper they are written on.

Goatbeard I didn't say I had a problem with their right to be there.. my problem was one of a SAFETY ISSUE, jumping out in front of cars and pushing signs into the road.. that was and is my issue..

I would have gladly taken their brochure if I had been at a red light but since the light was green, I didn't want to cause a SAFETY ISSUE.

This has nothing to do with who was there, my point is SAFETY.

Someone always has problem with someof the days activities. Personally I thought it was refreshing to see people out doing something constructive. Whether or not you support Paul, they have a right to do so. If they said "yes we can", would you have stopped and shook their hands?

wbee - Did ya ever drive faster than the posted speed limit? Fail to make a complete stop at a stop sign? Speed up just a teensie weensie bit when the light was yellow just to keep from sittin' at another stinkin' red light? If not, you're probably one of a kind. If so, glad YOU don't have to obey the traffic laws, either. Glass houses................

Thank you, Old Guy. I hope that student is punished within an inch of their life. What a horrible thing to do. I wonder if that student will have to pay for any costs related to this. I hope so!

I was just looking at the minutes of the last posted city council meeting and was suprised to see the Fire Chief was getting a salary of $80,000 per with benefits. For a town of 12,000 residents it seems to be way High. It also seemed like the council was leaving it to the so-called volunteer firemen to decide if the next chief was full time or part time. I quess it depends on who they select, if he wants to leave his full time job or not. Also the council said that maybe a Associate Degree was to tough a requirement, for $80,000 they should at least have a masters. And we talk about school district overpayments. The City is even worse, maybee the newspaper can do an article on that.

Obama:

"Change we can believe in." Some of us out here knew it would not be for the better. Our "Commander and Chief." God help us if the sentence is 4 more years. God help us. Thanks for the post midea.

Believable, Unbelievable? Can I really fathom this? You read the article for yourself.

http://www.wnd.com/2012/02/afghans-quran...

BW,

Depending on the current threat level it would be %100. It is entirely up to the Security Forces Commander or a higher authority.

Of course there are "other" relative factors also.

Let he who has never forgotten anything chunk the first one in there............Tough crowd.

Manshima,

Maybe we should be!!!!

EricaB

I did read all the posts. I did not assume anything. I just felt a need to explain how the process works at the gate.

I did not belittle any one or try to come across holier than though.

I worked that gate for just over 3 years, I know how it works.

Sorry if your drawers got a little bunched.

I realize people will forget ID's. Just trying to explain how the system works.

Have a great day.

Joe Smoe-

I admitted if you actually read what I wrote, to being the one who messed up about the I.D. thing. I was just wondering why if its 100% and as they told me all the time, why when we came back I wasnt asked for it. So maybe if you read everything and dont just assume, then maybe you wont seem so I dont know holier than thou. I admitted my mistake, so I dont need sympathy, specially not from the likes of you. So have a great day, and may God bless you!

Just had the wonderful volunteers at the Senior Center complete my 2011 taxes. It took awhile because of my circumstances but with 3 Quality checkers, I know it was done right. Thank you Senior Center for offering this service and if anyone else uses them, please don't forget to give the Senior Center a donation at the sign in desk and to Thank the Volunteers.

Amazes me the things that people complain/squabble about.

At any given time the entry to the base is different, for the purpose of security. How well do you think it would work if it was exactly the same every time?

Do yourself a favor and remember your ID cards at all times when entering the base.

I remember when not having your ID was a punishable offense.

Erica B, I have been wondering the same thing

SOme of the guys only ask for drivers ID, others ask for all id's. One of the SF actually told my husband that before 9, my ID was not needed. One flight was told that they could do Drivers only, the other flight was told it is 100%.

Erica B,

If the sign was up for 100% ID CHECKS and the officer didn't check both than they weren't doing their job properly.

If you have another form of ID like a drivers license then your husband can get you a pass at the visitor center. It must be a picture ID though.

They have a strict set of rules they follow and if an officer is lazy then security takes a hit. I used to work the gates and it drove me nuts that some officers just got lazy and didn't follow the rules; this made it hard on the officers that do follow the rules.

Ok I went out to Base this morning, and I was stupid enough to forget my purse in my car, we were in my husbands truck. So we got to the gate, and the nice SP told me that he needed to see my ID, of course I didnt have it. Duh to me, again. So he sent us into the "Visitor Center" the nice "Base(???) Police Officer, he was a civilian, told us no we could not get on Base, its the Base Commander's rule. 100% I.D. check no admittance for anyone without a card. Ok, thats great, I am ok with that. So with my husband a little made at me, and rightly so, we headed back to town, and I got my I.D. card. Then we drove back to the base. We get up to the gate, (by now I bet you can guess what I'm gonna type next!) and my husband gets his I.D. out and I get mine out, but I say to him, "I'm not going to give mine to you until he asks." This was a different SP, so he takes my husbands I.D. card, scans it, something the other SP didnt, and says "Have a nice day guys." So what happened to the 100% I.D. Check, no one gets on without showing their I.D.? We were told that 2 times by 2 different "Guards" 20 mins previously. Needless to say I am not happy. So why are our Base Commander's rules being enforced some of the time with such rigidity, and other times not at all? I roll my eyes at our so called sometime there sometime not base security. Acroos the board or not at all! Well all I'll step off my saop box, and go annoy someone else. Just I have no blog, I want one, but...Thanks for listening

It seems that some folks post a comment about someone else's post before they read it fully. Enlisted wife has stated that the ranking officer's wife had posted the incident on facebook. Obviously the officer's wife was not concerned that others would know about it. Furthermore, it seems that she wasn't too concerned about what others would think of what she had done. That kind of goes hand in glove with the kind of attitude one would have to have to do what she "allegedly" did. I doubt that anyone reading these blogs knows who the woman is anyway. To me the story read like something out of a reader's digest when they tell funny stories about military life.

Who is David Weed?

David Weed...Sing what you know,you have a voice the makes my heart sing. Steven Tyler really?..He was born in 1948...Do what you do best. Waiting to hear from you in church.. or maybe someplace else. Just saying don't go to their level your better then that. Good Luck..

Any word on the big smoke plume to the west this afternoon/evening?

Buckshot61,

If by "fleas" you mean parasites, you could be right.

Junk yard dog,

Just because you have a feeling, no evidence or anything your going to call someone a lier.

Yes I have heard of the ether bunny, and the shot with a square needle and other fables. As for this event about the new Wing King "I WAS THERE" What about that don't you get, you can ask my wife as I told her about it when I got home from work that day.

Agian I really don't care if you believe me or not, I could care less what you think my experiences in life are. But I know what happened that day as I was there; funny I didn't hear you say you were there and wintnessed something different.

You can't put your finger on it huh?

It is a beautiful day outside :) I hope you all enjoy it !

Kinda crazy that "enlisted wife" would choose first person on telling the story and how did she know this commanders wife dropped the pen in the toilet. Sounds more to me like this was something for "enlisted wife's" FACEBOOK and less the Mountain Home News.

Junkyard,

You can believe what you want I don't really care I was there.

I guess the new Wing King couldn't have heard about it either and decided it would be a great open to his new command.

Who knows we know nothing has ever been repeated though out all of history.

After reading Enlistedwife's original comment and follow-up comments, I think everything after the first sentence is supposed to be a quote from the Commander of the Dental Squadron's wife, not her own. Otherwise she has sarcastically called herself a 'gem of a wife', and come to the banter box to shame herself. I think all that was missing were some quotation marks.

Enlisted Wife...you CLEARLY stated that you used your husbands rank. Just admit that you were wrong and be done with it. You should have explained what happened. The woman asked you PLEASE to give her the pen back and instead of explaining the situation, you got snotty with her. Shame on you for acting that way. I hope your husband finds out and gives you an ear full about how to behave properly in public.

InTheRough No, it was not I. It was the commander of dentals wife. And I am kinda irritated at her comments, throwing rank around. After all, i am an ENLISTED wife, not a commanders wife.

Enlistedwife

We needed to know this WHY?

Ok i have to say this,, after the arrest of the suspect in the recent knifing, where are all the anti Singapore, Saudi, Mexican people? I have noticed that none of them have made a comment that they were wrong and jumped to conclusions. If I was to use some of thier logic, if you want to call it that, maybe we need to send all the people from the base away. I am not an advocate for that at all but hope that some of the small minded people see that they need to broaden their horizons some.

Great job by MHPD. I wish all those that jumped to conclusions about the attacker would retract the statements they made.

"It against policy to post copyrighted material on our comment boards. Please summarize the points of the story and provide a link to the original web site if you want to reference copyrighted material from another site. Because of this policy, we have removed a comment here that quoted in full an Associated Press article. Thank you for understanding."

Received the email- thanks.

Wow, 5 stabbed in a bar in Mountain Home last night. Looking for suspect per Idaho Statesman. http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/02/05...

Sad passing of an era.....RIP

http://www.ktvb.com/news/Micron-CEO-Stev...

However the State's allocation to teacher salaries pans out in the end, the only thing certain to happen is that if the State decreases money to the Districts, the Districts will cut/freeze salary or cut teaching positions/programs to meet the budget crunch.

On the other hand, if the State increases allocation to Districts for teacher salaries, Districts will look for any other legal way to use the money before any teacher sees a dime of it.

There may also be a semantical smokescreen being employed with State "Teacher Salary" percent increases. Our SDE could claim that the money is being targeted for "Pay for Performance" programs...as such, they are telling the truth that the funds are set for Teacher Salaries. However; if you ask any teacher what they have to do as individuals to earn a bonus, I don't think you'll get an answer that makes sense.

Per my call to the Dept. of Ed and the information that was provided to me by that office via email, there is no reason why that pay will not be reinstated. So, before you tell me I am being less than factual, perhaps you should call them yourself and do some research. I do realize that this is the PROPOSED budget request and that it has not been approved---I just reported what was requested and what that agency reported to me when I inquired. Would you like my contact information or a copy of that email?

Very well said and written OM

Re: the MHSD and (maybe) propsed levy, etc.:

Union dues are indeed paid by the teachers and IA's employed by the MHSD. Tax dollars do NOT pay those dues...tax dollars do however pay for the pay raises, etc. negotiated by the union.

As far as the people who come on here to piss and moan about the MHSD and how money is spent, I have this to say---

I went to the meeting last night on how to get a levy passed for the money "needed" for the MHSD. I was NOT invited to sit in this room but elected to do so, on my own so that I would know, first hand, what in the heck is going on.

40-45 people were asked to sit on this "board of citizens." The MHSD, Mr. Gilbert to be more specific, told me last night that they asked senior citizens, people who are "anti" MHSD/bond/levy/more taxes, school employees, etc. to participate. Of those people asked (face to face mind you and through direct contact by the MHSD) very few attended/took part/showed up---who were specifically contacted.

Last night at that meeting, there were 25-26 people present (not including Mr. Gilbert, Mr. McMurtrey and the MHSD Budget & Finance guru). Of that, many were MHSD employees (teachers, head of maintenance, coaches, etc.).

If you are really and truly concerned about what is going on with the MHSD and how your money is being spent, YOU should attend the meetings. I was encouraged to speak at this meeting and my questions were answered. Even more important, while it was fairly clear that I was one of the most "anti-education" or "naysayers" (naysayer was a word used last night at the meeting by a person at this meeting), my questions were answered and in a respectful manner (mutual respect mind you by myself as well as the MHSD employees).

If you choose (and it is a choice) to not be involved, then you have no reason/standing to complain. They are asking for input. If you choose not to attend and be informed then do not complain when another levy is approved and you do not like how that money is being spent.

I heart my boys, I do not think that the MHSD is playing up the problems with these buildings such as a leaky roof (many of them to be more specific) and I really did not intend to come across in that manner. I just find the timing of all this to be very suspect. Cuts need to be made. Enrollment is down and times are tough. They propose cuts with very vague language. Will these cuts really be made? The way some of the proposed "cuts" read as of last night, in my opinion, they will not be made.

I had a very interesting post meeting conversation with Mr. Gilbert last night. He was very straight forward. IMHO, 10,000 more "concerned citizens" need to have a similar conversation with him or a member of the MHSD Administration (I would skip the MH School Board myself, they do not want to hear from the public---in my persoanl experience).

So, if you do not attend these meetings, you probably should not really say anything. Because by not attending these meetings, you are a part of the problem and not the solution.

My 2 cents.

Next meeting is at the Mountain Home Public Library on February 9, 2012 at 6:00 P.M. Do your own research and be informed.

On a side note, I spent 1 hour on the phone yesterday with the State Dept. of Education. Teachers pay cuts from last year will be reinstated. They took a 2.83% cut and will see a 3% return (per the State Dept. of Education, yesterday) for the 2012/2013 budget year. Teachers will also be eligible for up to $8,000 in performance based pay which is on top of their base salary (also per the State Dept. of Education) for the 2012/2013 budget year.

And for the record, I am not anti-education. I am pro-education. I am stated to be a "naysayer" or "anti-education" because I am against a levy/bond and higher taxes BASED on what is currently proposed by the MHSD as far as spending and vague "cuts." I hope that this train will turn around and that some commmon sense and honesty will shine through. I hope. I would be one of the MHSD's most outspoken supporters if I could be confident, based on the facts and data, that they were being fiscally responsible and proactive toward the future. I would GLADLY pay higher taxes if Admin pay was more in line with what some of these people contribute---really contribute---to the MHSD and the community (students and taxpayers). I am not there yet and may never be but at least I have the facts and data to support that decision. I hope there is a day when the MHSD decides to "partner" with this community for better education. There is no doubt that the children deserve that and we NEED smartl, well educated future leaders. However, a levy every 2 years and bond elections are not the answer and threats of "nuclear solutions" are not the answer either. There is nothing worse than a demand for money while holding the voting public captive (gun to our head tactics). When people have their backs up against a wall the outcome is seldom what we would like.

Hope that helps some of you out. If you do not want this "Citizens Board" to be all MHSD employees, attend the meetings. If not, please do not complain. Good day.

Dear Mr. Idahowantswolves - Really, don't you have anything more constructive to do besides driving around at night? Of course you are going to draw attention to yourself from law enforcement. Sounds to me that you were purposely doing it TO draw their attention. Good on Elmore County for following you.

Did the city have the trucks out clearing snow. The roads were terrible. I don't think anything was done with the city streets. Was the city saving money yesterday, figuring it would melt with the rain forecasted for late night? Real dangerous all day!

Just a reminder to please clear the snow not only from the windows but the hood, roof and trunk of your vehicle. I lost count of how many cars were driving around today witha mountain of snow on the vehicle that fell off when going down the rod or when stopping. And by clearing snow from your windshield, using the wipers DOES NOT remove all the snow and blocks your vision. Take a few minutes to clear all the snow. A simple push with a soft brush will do the trick. I have a large truck and spend a few minutes cleaning off the snow not only to make things better for me but others on the road as well.

I hope no one does.

Maybe following someone for 15 minutes, IF that actually happened, is pushing things a tad. You should be able to establish a driving pattern before then. Maybe the officer was waiting for dispatch to return some information he/she had requested. Hard to say. However, I do know that law enforcement is a mostly thankless job and definetly dangerous and that law enforcement as a whole should be supported by their community. Do they need to earn that support and respect? Absolutely. If you want the respect and support of your community, you have to play the game by the rules. A good "cop" is a tool of God. A bad one....well.....you get the point. But before passing judement on the people who are trying to protect you, ask yourself. Would I or could I do their job? Thankfully, they are willing to do the job. Keep up the good work, ECSO and MHPD. And as far as the new chief, gee whiz, give the guy a chance. He's still settling in.

I would like to take a minute to remind folks to make sure your windows are free of frost before you drive away in the mornings. Twice in the last two weeks my car was almost hit by drivers with the windows frosted over.

This morning the person did a turn on red right in front of me, windows completely frosted. The other time was an almost head on with a someone that could not see clearly through the 3 inches in the middle they scraped off.

It really does not take that long and it could be your own life you are saving.

It's been literally 45 minutes since my last post and it has already been deleted. What is the point of having a banter box if you're not able to freely express your opinion???

WOW! All I hear about is the "Shifty Fifty" that run Mountain Home. Is this an elected group? Do they have a term limit?

I dunno, maybe some healthy competition would be good for the area. Lucky O'Reilly's isn't owned by one of the "Shifty Fifty" or you would have never seen and Autozone!

Well, maybe we don't need another auto parts stose but, methinks it's better than another dump or dairy. Inside of them stores smell just fine.

Mr John Doe,

Firstly you obviously know me as you posted my first name, I on the other hand have no clue who you are. Next, my son has never posted at this site and my complaints about the Mountain Home City police department have nothing to do with the trouble my sons have been in in their youth. My complaints have been just and I have posted very few times to this forum. Of those involved in my situation 2 have now resigned from the PD, there were in fact problems with these two men and the way they were dealing with the public. My original post was related to the accident my son was in, my latest post was in reference to a different subject so I believe the situation was in fact "put behind me" until of course you brought it up again. If you have a problem with me I appreciate it if you keep my family out of it, it seems there is something personal in your post that was intended to disgrace both myself and my family how about you keep your anger directed towards me in the future as I am the one making the posts and leave anyone not writing out of it.

Have a lovely day.

Just what we need is another car parts store. How about some stores for clothing and shoes.

or a craft store.

New store is Autozone and John Lathrop the old store manager at O'Reilly's is taking over the new Autozone. Be nice to have the competition. O'reilly's rule is to drop prices in any market with an Autozone, match their store hours. Autozone will price match. A win/win for Mtn Home

I have heard it is going to be an AutoZone

Where could you go in Mtn Home for 15 mins except around in circles? You sound suspicious to me also.

Let me get this straight. You get followed by an officer for 15 minutes, and you think that's harassment? Really?

McCallumS

Good post, I agree with u. A few weeks ago I had an officer follow me for over 15 min. The officer was 162 , thinking just cause ur driving dowtown at 10.00 u must be drunk comming from the bar. it is harrasment. I havent drank in years. I was just board and thought I would drive around for awhile. It does need to change, and it sure hasnt.

MH Resident

Im so sick of u people saying its all about the money, so if china would pay 20 trillion for the USA u would be happy?????????????:? (*&^%)

Idahowantswolves:

So you can post whatever you want because it's America, but I have to leave the country if I dislike something?

Mtnhomeless

Just like you can post what you want, I can post what I want , Its America

Merry Christmas Brenda, family and the staff at the News.

I read through these comments and I laugh at how some people get worked up over offending coments. I heard this quite a long time ago and I think it applies here. "A person of above average intelligence talks about ideas, a person of average intelligence talks about events and a person of below average intelligence talks about people." Whether those people are ones making comments against others or people who comment on groups of people. Either way you are doing the latter and one can imply your level of intellect.

Sure am glad I spent my entire military career in only one branch of service. I'd hate to feel a need to compensate.

These comments are annoying and ridiculous.

Mr427539

Yes and yes.

Just thought this would be a GREAT time to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Also to remind each and every one to remember the spirit of the season.

Mr427539

Did you ever try to contact the school and find out why the lights are on? It might alleviate your frustation and posts.

Again, lots of lights on at West Elementary and no cars in the parking lot. It's only tax dollars so nobody cares.

You know what, I will change the word.

Idahowantswolves, your comments do not make you a racist.

A bigot on the other hand...

Intherough stated: There is a difference between free speech and just being a racist. Just as people are free to say what they like (for the most part), others are free to respond, even in a negative manner.

First off, thank you for agreeing with me. Others (Lowes) are free to respond (to the muslim show) even if it's in a negative manner.(pulling their ads)

Lowes is indeed a private company consisting of private investors more commonly known has stock holders.

Secondly Lowes nor anyone else can be considered "racists" since muslim is a religion and NOT a race of people. Just like Catholics, LDS, Baptists. Muslims around the worls come in as many different RACES as do Catholics and LDS. White, black, brown...there are muslims in all colors.

You have to remember that this is still (for now) a free country and that private companies such as Lowes can spend their advertising money as they see fit. If they're stock holders tell the board that they don't like the direction the advertising is going then Lowes would best pull the ad from where ever it was placed.

mhbouncer

As you feel that Lowes is a company who have the right to pull their ads from occuring during All American Muslim, know that it is a PUBLIC company, not private.

They are under the same guidelines as other public companies and can't just pick and choose without some sort of repercussion.

There is a story on MSNBC.com that discusses a WHITE woman posting a WHITE ONLY sign at a PUBLIC pool. The reason she posted it? An African American girl.

There is a difference between free speech and just being a racist. Just as people are free to say what they like (for the most part), others are free to respond, even in a negative manner.

As an example, idahowantswolves wants everyone to believe what he states, he is only pulling info from another country, which doesn't fly here. But we still get to respond.

Free will, and think for yourself.

idahowantswolves

Why are you so quick to discount everyone else's opinion? You can sure lay your racist ignorant and close minded opinion, but in the land of free speech, we get to say ours too.

Your solution, if someone disagrees with you, is to tell them to leave?

If you are so worried about the Saudi's coming, why don't you leave? You seem to be more worried about it than ANYONE else.

I happen to know lilmisselmo. Lilmisselmo is thoughtful, intelligent (oh, that means she is smart, just wanted to make sure you understood, since your ignorance is showing), and understands what is going on. All you can do is spout items from another country, of what is not allowed in this one.

Know the difference. If you want to match wits with someone, make sure you come armed.

Lilmisselmo has a full arsenal. My money is on her.

Great post midea and interesting article to say the least. Thank you for posting that.

lilmissmelmo

This ia AMERICA, dont like it leave, Its ur right tooo , gooo

That story is ridiculous. Is it so wrong to advertise during a show that is trying to give people a peek into the fact that not all Muslims are infidel-killing bomb-happy America-hating people?

Lowes probably just wants to get people into their store. I DOUBT purchasing ad space there was anything more than a chance to get an ad out there. How was that standing up for America's rights? Are we so into limited a free market that we are willing to boycott ad space because we don't like the TV show?

I think Teen Mom has begun glamorizing certain aspects of teen pregnancy. Does that mean that my favorite soap should stop advertising while it's on? NO. That is a ridiculous expectation.

Trouble

Thinking and being are one thing. I don't believe that one section of a group represents the group as a whole. Just as I hope that everyone realizes that idahowantswolves does not represent me nor everyone in Mountain Home nor the base.

9/11 was and still is a very tragic memory. I am a military wife. I sent my husband off days later for who knows where and who knew how long, and if he was ever coming back. I am a military brat as well.

I just ask for other to reserve making a decision on something that hasn't happened. Be prepared if you want, but to just pass judgement on a group as a whole due to a section is a generalization and racist.

Idaho Wants Wolves...managed in accordance with the original agreement:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxaYMrwG3...

First of, for the Saudis, its not the SRAF, just like our current Singapore squadron, they are also known as the RSAF.

Secondly, take a second to think about the deal the Saudis are looking for. Overall its worth many tens of billions of dollars to the US at a time when our economy and long term employment could certainly use the boost. Given our government's current appeasement strategy in dealing with most other countries, and what one would assume to be a large lobby effort on the part of industry, what is it that the Saudis want that is forcing the impasse? From what I've been told their have been multiple "absolutely final offers" by our side, but still no agreement. We may not want to know what's holding things up.

Thirdly, don't mistake your impressions of many US Muslims with those that would be showing up here. Its not even an apples and oranges comparison. I spent a year in Saudi training many of the same aircrew that would be coming here, and by now they would be in leadership positions, and I can tell you that they are not to be trusted. In casual conversation its easy to be fooled. Its not so easy for them to hide their true nature when you live and work with them almost every day for a year.

Idahowantswolves. At least the Muslim members of the SRAF, assuming they are good Muslims, follow Sharia, they are required to follow the laws of the country they are in. Coming straight from the mouth of five different Muslims that I know.

Free speech also dictates that I can tell you I don't like you what say, write, etc.

Each country has their own laws. Saudi Arabia does not have freedom of religion. We do. Just like we have to follow their laws when in their country, they have to do the same here.

Your rants show ignorance. It's one thing for others to think you are a fool, it's another thing for you to open your mouth and prove them right.

idahowolves

Why would you assume that something like that happens here? We have our laws, which are not the same as in Saudi Arabia?

Stop with the the racist rants and learn that Ignorance is NOT bliss.

(Insert Eye Roll Here)

I guess Mountain Home is officially entering the 21st century.

Everyday I see a new city department or local shop join the social media. I guess it's a great way for those of the computer-savvy generation to keep up to date on things.

City of Mtn Home: http://www.facebook.com/pages/City-of-Mo...

Animal Shelter:

www.facebook.com/CMHAS

Library:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mountain-H...

Elmore County Sheriff:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Elmore-Cou...

http://www.mountainhomenews.com/blogs/13...

ItsJustMeAgain, you are so right, we have a Postal system that just doesn't work anymore. To many over paid supervisors and a real lack of workers. All you have to do is look at mail delivery with the amount of carriers that no longer around and the new ones everyday. Congress created most of their debt problem but nobody is fixing it and it looks more likely than not Postal service becoming a thing of the past.

BTW did you get your paper you were looking for?

Good job to the City on the Christmas lights at the Railroad Park. Good idea to move everything over there on the main street where everyone can enjoy the lights. Every year seems to get new ideas and a better showing for the Holiday.

Oops...sorry to repeat a question. I have since then sent another e-mail that has gone unanswered. It just seems odd to me that there is never an answer in e-mail. Thanks guys! I'll try walking in when I get the time to do that.

Last year there was a Christmas Bazaar at one of the schools, and it was awesome. I went to a craft fair a couple of weeks ago that wasnt nearly as good. If anyone knows when that is happening again, that would be awesome. Thank you very much. Happy Holidays!

JustMe........Try walking into their office and ask them. They are wonderful people, not scary in the least. They will happily help you right away.

Does anyone know if the senior citizens or nursing homes are putting together a Chistmas wish list? Thanks.

First off- Happy Turkey Day to everyone :)

Question: The article concerning the Parade states that the parade kicks off on Friday, Decemeber 7th- yet, the 7th is a Wednesday??! So does anyone know whether it is going to happen on the 2nd or the 9th ??? I posted a question below the article, and had emailed the editor a couple days ago but have not received clarification from the paper yet. I did not see it on the MH News Calender either. There was a secondary comment posted beneath mine that said the parade was on the 2nd...can someone else confirm that??

Thanks for the help :)

Kwide, Can you tell us where you are from? In Idaho we don't have "medical" marijuana. And possesion of a small personal use amount is a misdemeanor and usually gets probation for a first offense. Under no circumstance could you go to prison for a misdemeanor in the state of Idaho. So the cost to the county is negligible for a first offense conviction of possesion of less than 3oz of marijuana.

IMHO it is still illegal in Idaho to possess marijuana. Until someone pushes the issue and gets that changed, not only at the local level but at the federal level, you need to respect the law. As a lawful society we can't decide we don't like a law and just ignore it. What if I decide stop signs are stupid about the time your family crosses my path?

Looks like the local school district has more money as there are a lot of lights on at West Elementary at 8 PM on a Monday.

Get over it IdahoWantsWolves, you really need to find a hobby. Put all your free time to better use. Maybe the MH Giving tree could use some help!

A spokesperson for Saudi Arabia's Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice (CPVPV), Sheikh Motlab al Nabet, said the committee had the right to stop women revealing "tempting" eyes in public.

Women in Saudi Arabia already have to cover their hair, and, in some regions, their faces while in public. If they do not, they face punishments including fines and public floggings.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/11/17/...

Wolves,

Sadly, no, that is not the dog I have seen. I do hope this other dog is found as well.

does anyone know why there were other police agencies other than elmore county deputies pulling over so many cars the other day between mountain home and glenns ferry? owhyee county, elmore county and ISP were working hard from the 90 ext to the 95. I heard more were working farther east up the interstate. the scanner was going crazy for a few hours and my ride on the interstate from the 95 to the 90, I saw 7 cars pulled over. and only 2 of them were from elmore county cars.

Anyone know how I could find someone to sweep my chimney in this town?

I called around a year ago to places like A-to-Z Lumber (shot in the dark) and couldn't find anyone. The only guy in the phonebook apparently can't be contacted with that information anymore. I've heard there's someone in town but I can't seem to find anyone to do it...

If anyone has lost a Blue Healer (wearing a collar), there is one that has been sleeping in the yard of the empty house across the street from the Family dollar store on 14th East. I believe one of the hind legs is injured. I have called the Animal Shelter several times, but they have been unable to catch it.

While in Oregon recently saw a small newspaper item backpage- it said a younger male wolf had been tracked out of the Wallowas, across Lake County and into the Umpqua drainage area. This wolf had a tracking collar monitored by Fish and Game.

I guess we will have to wait until next wednesday to hear about this. So for those of you who want to know now, here you go.

KTVB.COM

Posted on November 10, 2011 at 8:52 AM

Updated today at 9:27 AM

Gallery

See all 2 photos »

ELMORE COUNTY -- The Elmore County Sheriff's Office is looking for three people who did not return from a hunting trip Wednesday night.

The three left to hunt on horseback Saturday. They were heading towards Two Springs and Atlanta, Idaho. A family member told sheriff's deputies they were due back Wednesday night. They did leave with enough supplies to last one week.

The hunters were last seen driving two white Ford pick-up trucks, which have not yet been located.

Deputies say they do have a cell phone but they may not have service where they were supposed to be hunting.

The group consists of a husband, wife, and a family friend. Their names have not yet been released.

False alarm closes gate at the base for an hour:

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2011/11/09...

Yah I do, its because of the Idaho Fish and Game, and there so called managament slaughter, and you thats right.

keep hunting u will put them right back on the ISA...now who's laughing

Three Aussies arrested on suspicion of poaching elk in Elmore County

Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2011/11/07...

Wolf update from the IDFG page...101 down, 1000 more to go. Slowly taking back our state.

The Base Layoff, why does that matter anyway, renember what some people, the city , mayor seators, are saying ,,,"The Saudi's will save Mtn Home, The Base and Idaho" so what does it matter about a few layoffs. THe Saudi's will save all of us.

I must not have done a good enough job of driving my point home. The Mt Home News would rather report on a vehicle that was stuck on a concrete barrier, which they reported on the same day that it happened and TOTALLY ignore another event that will have a bigger impact on the community. What say you Mt Home News??? Why no special report of the announcement about layoffs at the base and instead report on a short term event like the semi driving onto concrete protectors. Bet you would have been all over the news had it been a military member breaking a law.

uncommon sense,

Do you think a teacher who loses his/her job is any more/less affected by unemployment than a plumber/ranch hand/farm hand/ fry clerk or big shot CEO?

The airbase employee who loses employment because of budget cuts will stand in the same unemployment line as the calculus teacher who is no longer being employed by the State...how you FEEL about either professional worker's contribution to society doesn't mean crap to the bills either of them has to pay.

Oh My!

Did anyone notice how many teacher (civilian) positions were lost last year in Mountain Home?

While I agree with the hazards of crossing Main and Jackson especially in hours of darkness and high traffice after school. The problem is not being ignored. The Cities Traffic Safety Board has been looking at this intersection along with others for improvements. Check the minutes here.

http://www.mountain-home.us/MTNHOME/Traf...

MH Resident,

Are you serious? Why would a suicide be a news story.....when someone dies you dont see Brian Orban out there with his camerea do you? This person, no matter the circumstances, passed away and the family and friends do not deserve to see your disgusting post. Being someone who recently lost a very very close loved one to suicide I would personally like to have a few minutes alone with you! You are an insensitive jerk and I cannot even believe that comment has not been removeed from here.....

MHResident, could you be any more insensitive? I don't know if anyone did or did not do what you are talking about, however, if they did and their family is reading here, do you think they would like to read your comment the way you wrote it? Goodness, what is wrong with people these days?

http://video.foxnews.com/v/1245980968001...

Thanks for the info Victoria!

The thing I saw was cylinder shaped maybe.(from what I could see that high)There was no wind on Sunday, so I heard it rumble like a jet, barely audible though. And like MsM says, it was right above the horizon. But it LOOKED like it was traveling 17,000 mph.

Bondyweb,

Thank you and I am glad you were able to view it.

It orbits between an altitude of 173 and 286 miles above earth, and at a speed of 17,200 MPH.

And for those who missed it, check tonight at 8:28 PM.

The object might be the ISS (Internation Space Station.) It will be visible tonight over Mtn. Home at 7:49 PM. Not sure if that is what you are looking at, but if you check tonight at 7:49 and again at 9:25 PM you can make the comparison.

It will also be visible tomorrow night at 8:28 PM.

Ok, so now I have seen this "thing" going across the sky that a few people have brought up. Outside last night about 7 and there was a white thing trucking along pretty fast. Faster than a plane and definetly not shaped like one either, heading east/southeast. Any thoughts on what it is or does anyone know?

Eagle-Thanks for letting me know about the email and comment- I think the spam filter must have gotten them again.

The Church and State blog has been on the back burner for me for the last couple of months, but there is ample subject matter, aside from the local issue, for many posts to come. Right now, Boise State classes are the primary focus of my writing efforts, but I'll pick it back up again soon.

Councilman Schroedar, how many times have you responded to a question by someone on the Banter Box over City Hall, Did you call the Mayor and ask him and get an answer.

If you haven't read it yet take a look at my latest blog and see what I had to say about web sites and you know full well I have talked about it with the Council and the Mayor.

You started a blog over the Church bull then dropped it like a hot potato and haven't answered my e-mail or did any more updates to it. So don't be called the kettle black.

I will accept any and all comments on my blog entries and if I have an opinion or an answer I will state it.

Wolf hope you don't get to cold standing out their alone wanting a protest.

Some cities have a different take on Pink Flamingos:

http://host.madison.com/wsj/article_e4c7...

Buckshot61:

Thanks for the suggestions and/or ideas to increase the profitability of the golf course. There has been no talk I have heard that fits in the category of "new ideas". Yours are the first new ideas to come up. I can and will explore those ideas, if given the chance.

In two separate posts you have stated something along the lines that the politicians in this city have made huge mistakes in the past to put the golf course in the situation it is now. And you ask me to research these mistakes that are "on record". Please take what I'm going to say in a friendly manner. Is there a list of these mistakes? Come on, throw me a bone and point me in the right direction so I can get educated. Love to hear what you have to say about it.

You also asked me on the "kiss of death" blog "Why would you be against selling it [golf course] off to a private investor?". Back in July, I started looking into this possibility. I found a website that listed over 300 golf courses for sale in the US. In other words, there is a national glut of golf courses for sale. One of the primary figures in determining an asking price for "a business" is past revenues. As we know, the Desert Canyon Golf Course has never been profitable. In short, I don't believe a buyer could be found in the next few years. I'd rather see if our golf course can become profitable through better management and better marketing before having a fire sale. But bring in an investor with terms that would protect the City and our taxpayers and I'm sure the Mayor and Council would listen.

Buckshot61:

Are you purposely trying to skew the facts in order to make your points?

Here is the direct quote from the Bondy website that was linked by Councilman Schroeder.

"As your candidate for the Mountain Home City Council, I will push to make sure the golf course operating expenses are covered completely by the users. The bond payment will continue to be paid for by the taxpayers."

That says that Mr. Bondy wants the operating expenses of the golf course to be covered by the users. And it also says that he wants the taxpayers to continue to pay the bond payment of, if I recall what I read, about $200k per year.

I actually like your ideas for bringing in younger people to the course and though I don't know why the Couples Night was discontinued, it certainly sounds like a possible way for users of the golf course to bring in more revenues in order to offset the $20k that the course is currently running in the red.

My tax dollars have been paying for the bond that created the golf course, as well the deficit each fiscal year since the course has never run in the black.

At what point do you finally say "enough" and stop making the entire town pay for your rounds of golf? (and no, I am NOT talking about paying the bond. Most of us have accepted that we have no choice in that matter and must pay it out of our pockets)

Will the golf course be able to at least break even by the time the bond is paid in full? Or once we've paid the bond will the course still expect all Mountain Home taxpayers to shell out money to cover its budget?

Surely you can see the dilemma, right? You aren't demanding that we simply pay the bond out of our tax dollars each year, you are also demanding that we taxpayers defray your cost of playing a round of golf, year in and year out.

We, the taxpayers, don't see an end in sight and that's what is upsetting. At least that's what upsets me.

Buckshot...No sooner do I post a comment to you on the Mountain Home News "kiss of death" blog only to discover there is a debate raging here on the Banter Box.

I would like to ask if you could please post your plan to make the golf course profitable in the next 2 years. Some supporting data and Desert Canyon Golf Course demographics would be nice to see considering you think the national data is useless.

As far as your latest comment that I think "only the golfers should bear the burden of the golf course"???

My stand is: The 2011 balance sheet I received from City Hall indicates the golf course ran about $20,000 in the red. I ask only that the users take up the slack on this budget deficit. On the other hand, the entire taxpayer population of Mountain Home is fully and completely responsible for the yearly bond payment. In 2011, the Mountain Home taxpayer burden for the bond on the golf course was over $211,000.

Buckshot:

The references made to "taxing the golfers" are backwards- the city taxes all residents, many non-golfers (and golfers, too) to sustain the golf course. What is being discussed are the fees charged only to golfers for golfing- that is not "taxing the golf course"- it instead is asking those who derive benefit from the golf course to pick up a larger share of the cost of that benefit than they currently do.

I think Tim Bondy has a very clear and well articulated position on the Golf Course and the substantial subsidy it receives year after year. You can read it here:

www.bondyweb.com

I keep reading all these comments about the planes from base and how much noise they make. I have to chuckle because I hear the guard helicopters practing on a weekly basis far more than I hear the jets from base. I love hearing the sound of both as this means freedom and safety to me. I do not mind the noise of either. God Bless the USA and protect those that protect us.

Old Guy -

I too saw the shooting object the other day. It was soaring much faster than a plane would be and then just disappeared. I knew I wasn't seeing things, but was traveling alone and couldn't "confim" it with anyone.

waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

Unite and protest the Saudi basing here..