1/17/2014

Highways
New division administrators named
Two new administrators have been selected to head divisions created through a Division of Highways realignment. Dave Jones was selected as administrator for the Division of Engineering Products and Plans, and Blake Rindlisbacher was selected as administrator for the Division of Engineering Services.
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Innovation
D-5's Petersdorf saves department time, money and improves efficiency with paint bead innovation
David Petersdorf of the District 5 Striping Crew came up with an innovative solution to a consistent problem in regard to the application of reflective paint beads last fall, saving the department time and money. In doing so, he also earned a bonus for innovation.
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Highways
First Idaho 21 avalanche closure of season last weekend
The 12-mile stretch of Idaho 21 between the Grandjean Junction and Banner Summit closed Friday afternoon (Jan. 10) at 4 p.m. as an avalanche safety precaution, re-opening Sunday evening at 4 p.m. when the threat subsided. The decision to close the route proved to be wise.
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DMV Services
ITD advises citizens to use official sites for motor vehicle business
ITD encourages customers to use its official websites when renewing a vehicle registration online and for other Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) business. Unofficial websites might provide Idaho DMV information and claim to provide DMV-related services, including some with associated fees. These sites may offer renewal assistance, practice tests, driver's license records, motor vehicle records and other services, but they are not affiliated with the state of Idaho.
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AMBER Awareness
National AMBER Alert Awareness Day celebrated with poster contest
The 18th anniversary of the AMBER Alert system was Monday, Jan. 13. AMBER Alert in Idaho is a program of voluntary cooperation among broadcasters, cable television providers and local and state agencies to enhance the public's ability to assist in recovering abducted children.
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Employees
Let your insurance help you wih fitness
If you are looking for a fresh start for your health in 2014, Blue Cross of Idaho can help you on your way toward fitness. As a member, you have access to a national network of more than 16,000 fitness clubs, which will either offer a minimum 10 percent discount off initiation fees or monthly dues, or give you the best available public rate based on the type of membership you select.
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Be healthy and earn rewards from thriveidaho
If you haven't already gotten started in thriveIdaho, begin today to earn rewards. Start by completing a Health Qualification Form (HQF) with a primary care provider. This form gives you and your provider the opportunity to have an open dialogue about your current health status.
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Public Transportation
Public Transportation Advisory Council's meeting planned Jan. 22
The Public Transportation Advisory Council (PTAC) will discuss funding applications, review guiding principles for the group and receive program updates Wednesday. The meeting will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hampton Inn & Suites Boise/Spectrum, 7499 W. Overland Road, in Boise.
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Public transportation groups to meet Jan. 21
The Interagency Working Group (IWG), a coalition of state agencies and organizations providing guidance on public transportation issues, and the Idaho Mobility Council (IMC) will meet Tuesday (Jan. 21) from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Boise.
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Legislature
Encore (1-10-14) Governor Otter outlines "targeted, responsible, sustainable" budget priorities
Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter said in his annual State of the State and Budget Address that his highest priority for 2014 and beyond is investing in Idaho's "K-through-Career" education and workforce development system in a way that is "targeted, responsible and sustainable."
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Encore (1-10-14) State of the State Budget Address
Read the complete text of Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's State of the State Address delivered Jan. 6, 2014.
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Employees
Encore (1-10-14) Quarles earns Toastmasters International communicator award
Public speaking may be a terrifying prospect for many, but not for Mary Quarles, a principal auditor with ITD's Office of Internal Review. Quarles recently developed and completed 10 speech projects as part of Toastmasters International's communication program. Her efforts earned the Competent Communicator award through her participation in the program.
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Encore (1-10-14) Mel Coulter selected as ITD's new emergency program supervisor
Chief Deputy Scott Stokes this week announced the selection of Mel Coulter as ITD's new emergency program supervisor, effective Monday (Jan. 6). Coulter replaces Bryan Smith who recently retired. "Mel has an extensive background and a longtime interest in emergency management. I am confident he will advance our efforts to make ITD's program a national leader," Stokes said.
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Encore (1-10-14) McCarty assumes additional role as acting communications manager
Mollie McCarty, ITD's Governmental Affairs manager, assumed additional responsibilities this week as acting manager of the Office of Communities. She will oversee daily operations of both the communications office and its staff in the absence of Jeff Stratten, who is on extended leave. McCarty will continue to represent the department during the legislative session in her role as manager of the Governmental Affairs office.
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