Farewell

It was a good run. Thanks for reading, thanks for being in my life.

Keep in touch: www.asdewittangelblog.wordpress.com
www.angelonskye.blogspot.com , www.facebook.com/anjalisuzanne.angel and read my books on Amazon Kindle: 

Crazy American Lady on Tour in Historical England and Wales 
www.amazon.com/dp/B00HNE2J9Q
Gimme the Song O' the Pipes! Crazy American Lady Tours Historical Scotland 
U.S. :  www.amazon.com/dp/B00F68PIHG  
UK: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00F68PIHG

**Please be aware that you can download a free Kindle Reading App for your computer, at the above Urls. They do want you to read their books and so do I!

Higher Boise County Budget Proposed

Contributed by Jayne Reed Hello Boise County Taxpayers- I am sure that you all remember that we are paying off the Alamar debt with a bond that we voted on last year. When deciding to tax ourselves to get rid of this debt, we wanted the County Commissioners to follow strict guidelines with the remaining tax dollars that we give the county. They are supposed to use any leftover funds from any account to help pay the bond. The Commissioners are supposed to hold the budget level or reduce it. WELL, if you look at the corrected budget that the paper printed this week, the Commissioners are proposing a higher budget. Commissioner Anderson stated in several meetings that she wants to keep the promise to the taxpayers and NOT have increases. The two new Commissioners, Barbara Balding and Vicki Wilkins, are not sure that the people understood that holding the budget level or reducing it, could POSSIBLY mean cuts in services until the bond is paid off. So consequently, Balding and Wilkins are “not comfortable” making those cuts without hearing from the people. Tell the Commissioners to keep the promise that was made last year and make the cuts to the budget! Our deadline to comment and hope the Commissioners will decrease the budget is Monday, August 26 at 5pm. We can fax comments to the clerk’s office at (208)392-4473, or send emails to all of the Commissioners: bmbalding@co.boise.id.us, vlwilkins@co.boise.id.us, and jamiea@frontiernet.net. The other option is to show up at the budget hearing on Tuesday, August 27 from 6-8pm at the Miner’s Exchange in Idaho City. Thank you, Jayne Reed

Wayward Black Bear Returned Home

Credit: Boise runner, Alexander Ford, snapped Blackie on Aug 22.

    After a short visit to the city of trees and the Fort Boise area, an adult male black bear was transported back to the forest without incident. (Angel is convinced that Blackie got sidetracked on his way home from Smokey's birthday party.)

First reported to authorities during the August 22 morning commute, the bear was seen on a hillside east of Horizon Drive just after 7 a.m., with other sightings reported in the hour that followed. Ada County Deputies responded and maintained visual contact with the bear until Fish and Game Officers arrived. “The Ada County deputies were instrumental in this operation and we greatly appreciate their help,” Fish and Game conservation educator Evin Oneale noted. “With all the recreational activity that goes on in the Fort Boise area, it was critical to have the deputies there to keep people at a distance and monitor the bear’s movements.”

Fish and Game officers developed a strategy for tranquilizing the bear, which cooperated by bedding down in heavy brush along the cottonwood trail, just off Mountain Cove Road. “The challenge there was to get a clear shot at the animal,” Oneale noted. Eventually, the bear was darted and shortly after, loaded for transport to the Pilot Peak area between Idaho City and Lowman. Released without incident, the bear now sports both bright yellow and bright green ear tags.

More to Come?

This may not be the last black bear to visit town before winter hits. “Extended drought conditions have been tough on bears, and there’s no reason to think this bear will be the last one wandering into town looking for food,” Oneale said. “Homeowners living in more rural settings and those living on the doorstep of the Boise Foothills need to be particularly vigilant in securing potential bear attractants.” Pet food, garbage and bird feeders are examples of attractants that might bring an unwanted wild visitor to your property.

 

 

Fuel Driver Job Opening

FUEL DELIVERY DRIVER

~ NEEDED IMMEDIATELY ~

**FT. CLASS A CDL W/HAZMAT**

 

DRUG/ALCOHOL & CRIMINAL BACKGROUND

TEST REQUIRED.

PROF APPEARANCE EXPECTED.

 WAGES DOE.

PAID HOLIDAYS & VACATION.

 

SEND APPLICATION REQUESTS TO: KENNEDYFUEL1.FEED@CITLINK.NET

or 208-382-4430.

 

Kennedy Fuel & Feed Supply

    Cascade, Idaho

208-382-4430

4th Tuesday Dinner!

One of these people will not be showing her tartan undies at Dinner.
Old Diehards (Richters & MacAngel) will be there
for Pancake Breakfast too! AUGUST 31.

   4^th Tuesday is August 27—brace yourselves for the Grannies’ special entertainment and look forward to enjoying yourselves with Smoked Turkey Roast, Potato Casserole, Vegetables, Salads provided by the Grannies, and Rhubarb Crisp for dessert. By donation.

    Last Thursday’s lasagna dinner with guests from the Meridian Senior Center was another success. Thank you for everyone who attended—it felt like the old days.

    Monday Lunches started with several “single” fellows wanting a light repast at noon and they got what they asked for: Soup or sandwiches, some fruit, leftovers from dinner, just like home. Anyone is welcome, just drop your donation into the box and join the guys at noon, every Monday.

  Anyone wanting to cook up a pot, slap some nice sandwiches together, or provide your favorite dish for Mondays can call 462-3943 and let volunteers know.

  Granny’s Closet is still sizzling with great summer apparel and everything you might need for those camping and holiday cabin emergencies. There are always nice gifts to pick up for someone, good books to keep cool with and housekeeping necessities. If you like poking about for small discoveries, stop in on Fridays, from 12—5 and Saturdays, 10-4, and take your time.

  The Center is still dreaming about a pool table deal. If you have one you would like to either donate or sell at a good price, why not give us a call?

  The Syringa Club is moving along with its fundraiser Poetry/Prose/Art Book, with contributions by Boise County residents over 50, but the community hasn’t exactly responded with pants afire. Black and white sketches and photography are wanted and essays up to 800 words and poetry up to 40 lines are very welcome. The club is a service-oriented group of women who donate to community organizations and individuals but fundraising is only possible with generous cooperation. If you feel you have something to offer, contact Angel at 462-2511 or afoofymax@aol.com.

  Yoga class by Shanti happens here every Friday, from 10-11:30. The word is that everyone is loving the classes and Shanti may have to start a yoga/meditation class soon, for serious practitioners. There is no charge for these classes. Bring a mat or rug and come prepared to relax and change your life.

   Ione’s Fit and Fall-Proof exercise classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3 are just what the doctor orders for general health benefits. Men and women are welcome; there is no floorwork unless you prefer to bring a mat and adjust your work-out. This is perfect for the stretch, light strengthening, and balance-work needed for anyone. Classes are free, and plan on staying afterwards for light refreshments.

  The Senior Center building is a good deal for any meetings or events you may have. Prices are reasonable and better if you are a member. Rentals can include the kitchen, and we also rent out tables and chairs for your needs at home.

    Hours for the Center are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 10 a.m. to noon, and whenever Granny’s is open, and whenever we have events. Contact volunteers at 462-3943 or gvseniors@frontiernet.net. Wifi, books for reading, and movies are available. Stop in and say hi!

 

Bikers Gather for Mountain Rendezvous

  The Big Guys, a core group of motorcyclists from Caldwell, joined by riders from various parts of the country, will descend upon Crouch the week-end of August 23—26, for what organizer, Lonny Willis, says may turn into a music festival as well as a bike rally.

  “This will probably take on a life of its own”, says Willis, “the county knows, the police department knows, it’s something that goes along with the motorcycle crowd. The event exposes the community to our guys—we’re not the bad asses on TV. We aren’t politically correct but we are personally responsible. We are doctors, lawyers, artists—but we are all bike enthusiasts.”

  This is the fourth annual Mountain Rendezvous, and the group hopes that this year, it will take off. “So far, we’ve gotten more response than any Big Guys events--ever,” enthuses Willis, “This is going to be a blast.”

  The blast, promoted by Big Guys and the Dirty Shame Saloon, will begin with pre-event registration at the Shame. Friday set-up is at River Pond Campground.

  According to Lonny Willis, this is a great opportunity for the community to be served by people they don’t know and enjoy bands they may not have heard.

  Registration for each bike is $35 for the week-end, $20 daily, or a $10 daily gate fee for the Beer Garden and band area, which includes one beer token. There will be a DJ at the campground all week-end long, with two bars for beer and one for liquor. Be aware that this is considered adult entertainment, though children may attend with a parent.

  Friday night, Last Man Standing will play at the campground from 6—10, and there will be a wet t-shirt contest for the ladies. Steve Wall Band will be featured at the Shame that night.

  The Motorcycle Race will take place on Saturday, at the campground, where Moto Kitty will play from 1—4. The Bike Rodeo includes Weenie Bite, Cone Race, Slo Drags, Keg Push and Bartender Races. Saturday will rock with music by Juke Daddys, from 6—10 p.m. and Blues Night happens at the Shame, with Steve Wall Band.

  Sunday’s Jam Session will include “The Cooler”.

   Games will be played throughout the week-end—don’t forget the Poker Run--and awards and trophies handed out. Pull up those shirts and pull down those trousers to show off your best tattoos. There may be a frozen t-shirt contest thrown in too. More events are being added.

  If you bring Fido, George at the campground requests that you keep him in your area, clean up after him, and use a leash when walking.

  Lonny Willis acknowledges that the event “is certainly fun!” He says, “But as soon as it’s done, we evaluate and start planning for next year. It gets intense around March. We want to do things differently to keep it fresh but also have to fall in line with the traditional. Our main agenda is to bring everyone together for a good time.”

  The community is welcome to enjoy the festivities. For details, call Willis at 208-250-8507. To register for the week-end, call the Dirty Shame, at 462-2100. For River Pond Campground, call 462-8000 or 818-860-1825.

  

    

La Flambé Poi Dancers are Poetry in Motion

  Poi is a form of dance executed by gracefully swinging tethered weights in rhythmic and geometrical patterns. Rooted in the culture of the Māori people of New Zealand, who dance with poi in traditional ceremonies, poi has merged with modern day dance and is popular around the world. Contemporary poi spinners use flags, LED poi, and other tools which express beautiful, dramatic patterns.

La Flambe performs Saturday, August 24, at 9pm, Downtown Crouch

  La Flambé was born when former Garden Valley resident, Marilyn Rich, began poi instruction at the Garden Valley Fitness Center, in 2009. Current members say that Rich’s passion, along with the joy that poi conveys, “was contagious and caught on like wildfire among the women”.

  When requests started coming in to spin fire, ribbons, and LED poi at fund-raising, special, and just-for-fun events, the performing arts group, “La Flambé”, was born. Their skill sets include LED, fire and ribbon poi, along with hula hoops and fire fans. Long after Marilyn Rich moved away, the group continues to thrive and demonstrate the enthusiasm Marilyn inspired.

  On Saturday, August 24, at 9 p.m., La Flambé will perform a free fire and LED light show in front of Golden Eagle Radio in downtown Crouch, to drum up support for their dream to attend workshops at Lake Tahoe Flow Arts Festival this September, where
they'll learn from top artists from around the country.

   Raffle tickets are on sale now, which offer the chance to win prizes, including a professional-grade hula hoop, a hypnosis session, or a signed and framed picture of the Springs Fires, by local, esteemed Idaho photographer, Kari Greer. Raffle tickets will be drawn and winners announced at the show. Tickets may be purchased from La Flambé members and at Boardwalk Stores--Syringa Floral and Gifts, Red Rooster and Raven's Nest--which will be open for the evening, with special sales offerings and light refreshments.

 Though you need not be present to win items on the raffle list, there will be a few select raffle items not on the list, including a carpet cleaning service and hair care at Sun Country Salon, that will be drawn only for those present.
   This is a sassy group of women that you don’t want to miss: Sophia Plonka lives with her grandparents, though she traveled all over the world with mom and dad, while they were with the circus.  Dee Polley works, walks, gardens and spins in Garden Valley. Liz McInally is a joyful hula-hooping madwoman, who can be seen selling hoops everywhere she can.

  Anna Ross, owner of Raven’s Nest, creates gorgeous jewelry and leads mandala painting classes and other workshops.  Courtney Ignatich brightens the lives of patrons at the Garden Valley Market with her wit and smile and as a juxtaposition, just won the Cross Fit Paleo challenge. Melanie Elenes has a beautiful voice and performs at various functions. Bela Elenes, 12-years-old and fearless, loves to perform, and inspires everyone.

  Stacie Smith is a year-round athlete, participates in school and
community events, along with a full-time job, and active family (whew!). Mila Ignatich is going into second grade and loves to read, giggle, spin poi, hula hoop and live life.  Sharon Svenson is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and sells a line of Life Changing CDs: Check her website and Facebook at Svenson Hypnosis.

  To find out more about La Flambé, or if you are considering booking them for a special event, see and like them on Facebook @ LaFlambeSisters or email: laflambesisters@gmail.com.

Boise, Payette and Sawtooth National Forest Fires

Red Flag Warning Focuses Efforts on Holding Line Boise, ID-The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning beginning at noon today for the Boise National Forest and parts of the Payette and Sawtooth National Forests. Unstable, dry air along with extremely low humidity and high temperatures is expected. These conditions contribute to the development of new fires, spotting of current fires and erratic fire behavior. The Elk Complex (208-653-2459) is estimated at 116,914 acres and 25% contained. Last night, crews successfully completed burnout operations on the northeast flank from Dog Mountain to the southeast section of last year’s Trinity Ridge fire. This burnout is a key step in reducing risk to structures along the Pine/Featherville Road. Firefighters will be alert to the possibility of spot fires in that area due to today’s Red Flag conditions. The Pine/Featherville Road remains closed from Highway 20 to just north of Featherville. The communities of Pine and Featherville are still under evacuation orders. The structure assessment in the Fall Creek drainage has been completed. 38 residences and 43 outbuildings have been destroyed, totaling 81 structures. Elmore County Sheriff’s Office has initiated a phone line for Fall and Lester Creek landowners to call for information on their residences. The phone number is 208-653-2505, and is staffed daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. More information will be given at tonight’s public meeting at the Elk’s Lodge in Mountain Home. The meeting is at 6 p.m. Representatives from the Incident Management Team, the Elmore County Sheriff’s Department and Idaho Power will be in attendance. The Placer Fire is located about 4 miles south of Idaho City in Thorn Creek. It is approximately 100 acres in size and 20% contained. Fire activity is low and no structures are threatened. Firefighters are making excellent progress in containing the fire. The Pony Complex (866-347-0636) is now estimated at 147,806 acres and is 50% contained. Today crews will focus on the north end of the fire in the Blacks Creek area. Firefighters are working to secure the fire line without burning additional grazing land. Some roads have re-opened in the area of the fire. The remaining road closures include Blacks Creek Road (residents allowed, fire dependent), Anderson Ranch Dam at Highway 20, and Prairie Road/Cow Creek Road (Prairie residents allowed, fire dependent), Indian Creek/Simco. Mayfield Road is partially closed with no northbound traffic allowed from Blacks Creek. Incident information for both large fires can be viewed at www.inciweb.org. The Boise National Forest has initiated a large area closure that extends roughly on the east side from Road 181 to the junction with the Fairfield Ranger District, Sawtooth National Forest boundary, including the Pine/Featherville road; north from Atlanta along the Middle Fork Boise Road (Forest Road 268) over to the Deer Park Rental Cabin; then west along Forest Road 327 to Idaho City and Highway 21 on the west. Additionally, the Trinity Lakes Recreation area is closed. The Middle Fork Boise River Road is open from the Spring Shores Marina for residents of Twin Springs and Atlanta and only as long as fire conditions allow. For specific information and a map, please visit http://inciweb.org/incident/3616/. Stage I fire restrictions are in effect including no campfires outside of an agency designated recreation site until further notice. For more information, please visit www.blm.gov/id. There is a Fire Information Center established in Boise which will be staffed from 7 AM to 7 PM. The center can be contacted at 208-384-3266. Personnel at the center will be able to provide general information on large fires in the area. For more information on Wildfire Smoke and your Health please visit: http://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/Health/EnvironmentalHealth/WildfireSmoke/tabid/2172/Default.aspx Or visit the Idaho Smoke Blog: Idsmoke.blogspot.com

Elk Complex Fire

The Elk Complex has been affected by a smoke inversion for most of the day, but is beginning to increase in activity this afternoon. Boise National Forest PIO, Dave Olson, says the plume-dominated Elk Complex has grown to an estimated 80,365 in two days--having moved six miles--and is 0% contained.

The Boise National Forest Supervisor has implemented an area closure that affects nearly 775,000 acres on national forest lands due to the extreme Elk Complex fire behavior.

Extreme fire behavior and extremely dry forest conditions are a concern to public safety:

“It would be very easy for a citizen to be in the forest not knowing the fire was moving quickly toward them and having adequate time to get to safety,” said Olson. "We know some campers are up one way roads, in isolated areas, and having adequate time to warn them is a very strong concern.”

Both ground and air resources employed strategies and tactics to battle the fire east of Prairie towards the landing strip yesterday. Late yesterday, the fire moved into the Lester and Fall Creeks area. This morning it was reported that the lodge in Fall Creek and approximately 20 structures have not been damaged by the fire, but it is believed there is structure loss further up the drainage. The Lester Creek Guard Station has not been damaged.

Fire managers working with the Elmore County Sheriff plan to enter the Fall Creek area as soon as it is safely possible. They are assessing that opportunity this afternoon, but it may not be possible until Monday. Their desire is to conduct an assessment as soon as possible. A 600- acre spot fire occurred late yesterday on the north side of the South Fork Boise River in the Rock Creek drainage. This is a concern as the fire may move north out of the river corridor and effect areas west of Prairie. There has not been an update on this area as of this afternoon.

The Elmore County Sheriff’s Department as of this morning notified residents from Johnson Bridge (about half way between Pine and Featherville) south to the junction of the Pine/Featherville Road and Highway 20 that they need to leave the area. Campers have left the area as requested. The fire situation and potential for growth will be evaluated regarding further evacuation needs. The Sheriff’s office has established a road block near the Pine/Featherville Road and Highway 20 junction and has implemented a hard closure. That closure restricts entry into the area and when residents leave the area they will be prohibited to return. Access to the Fall Creek area is restricted.

A public meeting is scheduled in Pine at the Pine Senior Center tonight at 6 PM.

The following road closures continue to be in place: Blacks Creek Road off I-84 at the Mayfield Road junction; Indian Creek Road off I-84 at exit 71; Anderson Ranch Dam south on the Dixie Creek Cut-off to Hwy 20; and Prairie Road/Cow Creek Road heading north from Hwy 20.

Due to extreme fire behavior, the following area evacuations have been issued by the Elmore County sheriff’s office: The community of Prairie and Mayfield (which includes Regina, Indian Creek and Baseline); Anderson Dam Reservoir up Fall Creek Road to Ice Springs Campground then east to Lester Creek Guard Station; Pine area from Johnson Bridge south to Highway 20 and the Pine/Featherville Road.

The American Red Cross has closed the evacuation shelter at the Good Council Hall in Mt. Home due to low use, but is prepared to open it again upon request by agency officials.

The Boise National Forest has expanded a large area closure that is described specifically in the CLOSURES portion of this site. Stage I fire restrictions remain in effect including no campfires outside of an agency designated recreation site until further notice.

For more information, please visit www.blm.gov/id. There is a Fire Information Center established in Boise which will be staffed from 7 AM to 7 PM., and the center can be contacted at 208-384-3266. Personnel at the center will be able to provide general information on large fires in the area. For more information on Wildfire Smoke and your Health please visit: http://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/Health/EnvironmentalHealth/WildfireSmoke/tabid/2172/Default.aspx
  
 

 

Spot Fires Challenging Firefighters

The Elk Complex fire has moved north and northwest around Prairie, and is approximately 6 miles west of Pine/Featherville. There has been one confirmed outbuilding lost in Prairie. Active, running fire behavior was observed on the fire yesterday and throughout the evening.

The Pony Complex is moving north-northwest towards Blacks Creek Road and the South Fork of the Boise River. The fire continues to be very active and crews are working diligently to construct fire line where accessible.

Heavy smoke and ash is being reported in Garden Valley, Idaho City and the Boise Foothills due to both fires. Numerous structures/outbuilding are threatened and Idaho Power is working on the many miles of down powerlines in the area.

The following road closures continue to be place: · Blacks Creek Road off I-84 at the Ada/Elmore County line · Indian Creek Road off I-84 at exit 71 · Anderson Ranch Dam south on the Dixie Creek Cut-off to Hwy 20 · Prairie Road/Cow Creek Road heading north from Hwy 20.

Due to extreme fire behavior, the following areas evacuations have been issued by the Elmore County sheriff’s office:
· The community of Prairie;
· Anderson Dam Reservoir up Fall Creek Road to Ice Springs Campground then east to Lester Creek Guard Station;
· Danskin fire lookout.

The American Red Cross has opened an evacuation shelter at the Good Council Hall in Mt. Home for any resident that have been displaced due to the fires. An Interagency in-briefing for the two Incident Management Teams was conducted this morning. The two teams will be shadowing the local fire resources on both the Elk and Pony Complexes throughout the day and will assume command this evening.

The Boise National Forest has initiated a large area closure that extends from the Pine/Featherville road on the east; Forest Road172 and the William Pogue Trail to the north; the Middle Fork of the Boise River to the Arrowrock Reservoir; then extending south along the forest boundary to the north side of Anderson Ranch Reservoir. The Anderson Ranch Reservoir, the Middle Fork of the Boise River Road and the Pine/Featherville Road is open to public use.

For specific information and a map, please visit http://inciweb.org/incident/3616/.

Other Fires burning: The Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) is managing multiple fires within their jurisdiction:
· The Pilot Fire has burned approximately 11 acres and is 10 miles east of Garden Valley;
· The Missouri Fire is a ¼ acre in size and located 2 miles North of Pioneerville
· The Clear Fire is a 1/10 acre in size and located 2 miles Northeast of Pioneerville

The Boise National Forest demobed seven lighting caused fires today and has two fires that have not yet reached full containment:
· The Casner Fire is 1 acre in size and located 8 miles southeast of Deadwood Reservoir
· The Danskin is 2/10 acre in size and located 6 miles east of Garden Valley.

Stage I fire restrictions remain in effect including using a campfire outside of an agency designated recreation site until further notice. For more information, please visit www.blm.gov/id.

There is Fire Information Center established in Boise which will be staffed from 7 AM to 7 PM., and the center can be contacted at 208-384-3266. Personnel at the center will be able to provide general information on large fires in the area.

17 New Fires Reported Tonight

Boise National Forest Public Information Officer, Dave Olson, says thirteen new fires to date this evening (Aug 8) have been reported across the Boise National Forest, as the result of lightning late today.

Brian Harris, Payette National Forest, adds that the Payette National Forest has picked up four new fire starts so far: Two on the Krassel Ranger District east of McCall, one on the McCall Ranger District north of McCall on Granite Mountain, and one on their Weiser Ranger District. He says, "We do expect to pick up additional starts as well."

Contact Brian Harris, Payette National Forest, 208-634-6945.

The fires are all currently small, less than one acre, and the majority have been staffed with a combination of smokejumpers, helitack firefighters, fire crews, and engines. Staffing is on-going this evening.

They are scattered, but there are higher concentrations of fires east of Garden Valley, and east of Deadwood Reservoir.

There are no structure threats at this time.

Due to the dry conditions and abundant lightning, additional starts are anticipated, but there are still on-forest fire resources to attack any new starts.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in effect, which prohibits campfires except in a designated campground.

The goal of the restrictions is to prevent person caused fires, which would take resources that are needed for the current lightning bust. In addition, reduction of person caused fires reduces fire fighter risks and exposure.

Additional aerial detection flights will be flown tomorrow to search for new holdover fires, and fire lookouts will be on alert for new starts.

Join Smokey for Birthday!

A Smokey Bear 69th Birthday Party will be held August 9, starting at noon, at the Natural Resource Center Courtyard, located at 1240 S. Vinnell Way, Boise.

A short ceremony will begin at 12:15 p.m. Remarks by Tim Murphy, Acting BLM State Director and Bob Shindelar, Boise National Forest Fire Chief, will begin at 12:15 p.m.

Guests will sing a Happy Birthday Song at 12:20 p.m. After copious blushing and tipping of the fire hat, Smokey will cut the cake at 12:25 p.m. Interviews will be available following the brief ceremony.

Further information is available with Ellen Dunlap, Boise Forest Fire Prevention Officer at 208-373-4261 or call the Boise National Forest, at 208-373-4100.

Dry Fuel Threatens Ridge Fire

The Ridge Fire, located about 14 miles northeast of Lowman, Idaho, continues to show some activity with some interior burning and in the past few days, burning just outside of the fireline built earlier on a site near the west flank.

The overall concerns today (Aug 8) are the new multiple fire starts from lightning and the ability to deal with them and the 50-acre Ridge spot fire that is burning on the west flank, in the upper Clear Creek drainage. That fire was caused by trees torching inside the fireline, which cast embers outside of the line, starting the new fire, which is a priority. 

(Photos: Aerial shots of rapid increase of flame in a 4-minute window, which shows the dryness and potential for quick fire growth. With the abundance of dry fuel, insect-killed dead standing timber, and steep slopes, fire fighter safety is important)

Yesterday, a twenty-person fire crew was flown into the area, and is establishing a fireline, using what is called an anchor point to begin. The hope is then to work along the fire flanks and contain it. Two additional fire crews have been ordered, and two helicopters worked Wednesday to cool and slow the spot fire movement.

The fire has burned 5,315 acres and is 46 percent contained. Elsewhere, most of the perimeter is cool with no, or minimal, smokes showing. There continues to be some torching of trees and under burning just south of the Castro and 8-mile Creek junction, with very slow movement south in that area. The old Castro Fire (2011) is acting as a fuel buffer, and holding any easterly movement of the fire. In addition, the old 8-Mile Fire (2009) to the south is a barrier.
 

Garden Valley Fiber Artists Wanted

Classical Music in Downtown Crouch!

Davey's Bridge

– July 29, 2013 ID PFH 24(10) Davey’s Bridge Construction Activities and Upcoming Work LCI placed most of the bridge parapet concrete last Friday. The remainder will be placed mid-week this week. LCI’s sub-contractors will continue working on bringing the sub-grade up early this week and then work on placing roadway aggregate and completing the traffic lanes for Phase II of the bridge construction. Guardrail will be installed at the end of the week. Traffic may be switched to the Phase II configuration by the end of this week. LCI is gearing up for the bridge removal, which is scheduled to take place next week. Traffic Delays Legacy Contracting Inc is scheduled to work Monday thru Friday. Flagging operations may be required between the hours of 7AM and 7PM, M-F, with up to 15-minute delays. No official alternate routes are currently available. Contact Information Construction Manager: Sean Jackson, Project Engineer Mailing Address: 1119-A Banks Lowman Rd Garden Valley, ID 83622 Office Phone: 208-462-5166 E-mail: sean.jackson@dot.gov Bridge Removal Containment and Access Project Overview</b>

Idaho Fire Restrictions Implemented

Southwest and Central Idaho, August 1

(Does not include Owyhee)

David Olson, PIO

Boise National Forest

BOISE, ID - With the hot, dry conditions and very high fire danger throughout southwest and central Idaho, local wildland fire protection agencies will implement Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, effective Thursday, August 1, 2013 beginning at 12:01 a.m.  The identified areas include private and agency lands protected by the Boise, Payette, and Sawtooth National Forests; Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) Forest Protection Districts, Southern Idaho Timber Protection Association, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Field Offices within the areas listed below.  Stage 1 Fire Restrictions include the areas listed below:

·         All private, State, and BLM protected lands outside incorporated city limits within Ada, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, Washington counties, and portions of Idaho, Adams, Valley, Custer, Elmore, Camas and Blaine counties;

·         All Boise National Forest lands within Boise, Elmore, Gem and Ada counties, and a portion of Valley County;

·         All Payette National Forest lands (excluding the Frank Church Wilderness) within Adams, Washington and portions of Idaho and Valley Counties;

·         All Sawtooth National Forest lands within Elmore and Camas counties, and portions of Blaine and Custer counties.

For a detailed map and information, visit:  http://www.idahofireinfo.blm.gov/southwest/firerestrictions.htm.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.  The restrictions are being implemented by federal and state agencies providing wild land fire protection in the area, including the BLM, Boise National Forest, Payette National Forest, Sawtooth National Forest, and Idaho Department of Lands.  These restrictions are intended to decrease the chance of any preventable fires in the designated areas. 

Under State 1 Fire Restrictions, the following acts are prohibited on the restricted state and federally managed lands, roads and trails:

·         Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, stove fire except within an agency designated recreation site and only within an agency provided structure, or on a private citizen’s own land and only within an owner-provided permanent structure.

·         Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or designated recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

 Following are exemptions to the Stage 1 Fire Restrictions:

·         Persons with a written permit that specifically authorizes the otherwise prohibited act.

·         Persons using fire solely by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels.  Such devices, including propane campfires, may be used in an area cleared of flammable material.

·         Persons conducting activities in those designated areas where the activity is specifically authorized by written posted notice.

·         Any federal, state or local officer or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.

·         All land within a city boundary.

·         Persons using metal fire pans within ¼ mile of the south side Main Salmon River west of the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness to the confluence of the Little Salmon River.

·         Other exemptions unique to each agency.

Don't Struggle with Windows 8!

There will be a 2-hour

'Exploring Windows 8’

class

on Wednesday, July 31 at the Library – 1pm-3pm. 

Cost is $15 and take-home materials will be available. 

 Please sign up at the library so we can have materials ready.

~ 462-3317 ~

Mention to friends who are struggling with or thinking about

Windows 8

Nan Kelley

Lone Pine Technical Solutions, LLC
Garden Valley, ID  83622

208.462.2080

Ridge Fire Update

The Ridge Fire, using subalpine Fir, Lodgepole Pine and Douglas Fir as fuel, is now at 5,246 acres and is contained at 35%. 

Assigned resources are 418 personnel, with eleven twenty-person fire crews and eight helicopters.

  The cooler, more humid weather on Saturday helped firefighters achieve complete containment

on the southwestern division of the fire, referred to as “Zulu”. The crews working on Zulu were

taken to the base camp, where they had their first hot meal in seven days!

The other ten crews are still camped on the fire line and also had their first hot meal delivered since they started working the fire last Friday.

Fire activity continues to diminish on the east side, where hose-lay from 8-Mile Creek has been

routed to hotspots. The northern end of the fire continues to smolder and torch in the Cat Lakes

area where hotshot crews are working toward containment.

For realtime upates and photos, visit www.inciweb.org/incident/3523/

Summer Fun at GV Center for the Arts!

Visit www.gardenvalleycenterforthearts.org

for more information, membership, and contact info.



Gail White is your pottery instructor!

La Flambe Here in August!

Free Flow Arts Performance

Fire Dancing and LED Light Show

La Flambé

Sat. August 24^{th @} 9 PM

Raffle Drawing For Awesome Prizes

Downtown Crouch

In-front of our local Radio Station

 @ 95.7   Broadcast live

THE BOARDWALK SHOPS:

~ Red Rooster ~

 ~ Raven’s Nest ~

~Syringa Floral and Gifts ~

will be open with special offers just for that evening

along with light refreshments offered.

Sponsored by La Flambé, a volunteer performance group

that entertains with poi, fire fans and hula hoops

as a thank you for supporting our group’s dream

to attend workshops in Lake Tahoe

 with raffle sales and donations!

Contact: laflambesisters@gmail.com

Like Us on Facebook @ LaFlambeSisters

City of Crouch Opens Bids on Water Project

  At the Crouch City Council meeting on July 10, City Planner, Jerome Mapp, and Forsgren and Associates Engineer, Gary Ashby, exhibited a map which showed the proposed 125,000-gallon water tank and 8-inch waterline that will connect to the existing well, which was put in with the GV Market.

   The Water Project map may be viewed at the City offices in the Syringa Building, next to the Community Hall.

  Bids will be open until 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 7. Forsgren and Associates will review the qualifications of the lowest bidder and go from there. The Council will announce the winner and award the contract at the next regular council meeting on August 14.

  On that date, Ashby and Mapp will give a progress report on the water project. Ashby said, “It’ll be a three-month project—the tank can be built in one month, but no use rushing. It will be completed in November.”

  The legal ad for bidding appeared in the July 17 issue of the Idaho World and is advertised with the American General Contractors.

  Clerk Vickie Chandler reported that the Syringa Building/Historical Museum exterior painting is completed, and she reiterated that the council was not liable for any payment—upon award of a grant, it is to be paid. Castle Mountain Homes contractor, Scott Leslie, bought the paint and donated half. The grants organization assured that they will fundraise for the money if a grant doesn’t come through. Leslie had the painting done immediately after Dick Polley completed repairs, though the funds were not available.

Lowman Log Works created this handsome new sign for the museum.

  The gorgeous new museum sign arrived right after this meeting. Lowman Log Works did the good work. Chandler gleefully drew attention to the absence of boxes in the room. The board—Ed Griffith, Terry Welch, Janeen Jackson, and John Tucker—had completed the task of organizing all the photos and pictures.

  A reminder: Donations or loan of historical items, including household, tools and machinery, will be appreciated; cash for projects is always welcome. Stop in on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, between 12—4 p.m. to gather inspiration on how you can help.

  The council discussed replacing the waterline from the Syringa Building to the Community Hall well. Acting Chair, Richard Messick, said, “It’s all old PVC pipes and we’d have to dig up the road.” City Attorney, John McFadden, advised them to “wait and see what happens with the bids—maybe you can discuss it with the contractor”. He recommended they connect with the city system and not fix the well.

  Regarding cost of utilities, Clerk Chandler said, “The city is hoping for a good surprise with the propane and electric bill, come winter,” due to the move from the Community Hall to the small Syringa Building.

  The scheduled Amended Budget Hearing did not take place because no residents attended the meeting. The next Council meeting is August 14, 2013, at 6:30 p.m., in the Community Hall. The 2014 Annual Budget Hearing will take place on this date.

 For information, call the clerk at 462-4687. The City office is located in the Syringa Building, at 342 Village Circle, downtown Crouch.