Jeff Connell
Verified- Program Director and Operations and Brand Management Director, KPLZ-FM (Seattle, WA)
- Operations and Brand Management Director, KNWN-AM (Seattle, WA)
- Operations and Brand Management Director, KVI-AM (Seattle, WA)
Boise, Seattle
Dad to Colton - Seahawks, Mariners, WSU Cougars Fan - Hungry to travel the world. Regional Program Director for @1071hankfm and @hankfmseattle
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Articles by Jeff Connell
Let’s Fix Education: Part 3: Schools, Leadership, and the Resistance to Change
Jeff Connell · Follow 7 min read · -- Photo by Ian Schneider on Unsplash In the first two parts of this series, we tackled the issues with the federal Department of Education, state DOEs, school boards, and districts. Now, we get to the heart of the system, individual schools, their leadership, and the teachers within them. This is where policy meets practice, where students feel the direct impact of decisions made at every level above them.
Empowering Educators: How Teachers and Staff Can Hold School Leadership Accountable for Meaningful Change
Jeff Connell · Follow 3 min read · -- Holding school, district, and school board leadership accountable is essential for fostering an educational environment where both educators and students can thrive. As a teacher and instructional coach, you possess unique insights and experiences that can drive meaningful change. This comprehensive guide explores strategies to ensure leadership accountability, supported by real-world examples and actionable steps.
A Tale of Two Wars: Vietnam and Iraq - A Soldier’s Perspective on Corruption and Mismanagement
Jeff Connell · Follow 5 min read · -- Photo by Md Mahdi on Unsplash Photo by Nikhita Singhal on Unsplash Throughout history, the U.S. government has engaged in military interventions under the pretext of national security, democracy promotion, or humanitarian aid. Yet, behind the patriotic rhetoric, these wars often serve as vehicles for corporate greed, political power plays, and staggering levels of mismanagement.
Why Online Education Needs to Be an Expectation, Not Just an Option
Jeff Connell · Follow 7 min read · -- Photo by Compare Fibre on Unsplash The COVID-19 pandemic forced the world to rethink education, thrusting online learning into the spotlight. For a moment, it seemed like education might finally catch up with the realities of the modern world. However, as schools returned to in-person instruction, online education was largely pushed back into the corner, treated as an emergency option rather than a transformative approach to teaching and learning.
The Importance of Vacant Property Registrations
When a property is unoccupied, many municipalities require that the owners register the address. Known as Vacant Property Registration (VPR), these lists are a way for local governments to keep track of potentially problematic properties. The VPR process arose in response to the rise in deteriorating vacant buildings following the foreclosure crisis in 2008.
10 Key Takeaways Negotiating Data-Related Issues in SaaS PaaS and IaaS Cloud Contracts
USA May 1 2023 6 Who’s data security and privacy policies govern – customer’s or provider’s? The answer is generally more nuanced than a customer simply insisting that its own security policies govern the cloud service. Typically, a SaaS, PaaS or IaaS provider cannot customize the security and privacy configurations of its solution for each customer given a shared resources model, and customizations may add significant cost to customer.
Running Behind on Filing Your Taxes? You've Got Until July 15th
With April 15th, the traditional "Tax Day" less than a month away, many who owed were feeling stress with the current economic uncertainties. Now, the government has extended the deadline to July. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin announced the new policy. It's another move designed to help with the financial fallout of the coronavirus pandemic and COVID-19 preparations that have many feeling uncertainties about income, employment, and the general sense of security.
A Challenge to Tip Generously if You Can
There is no question, things are going to be different for the time being with COVID-19 affecting how we eat out and spend time at restaurants. Have you thought about leaving a big tip? I've been talking about this with a few friends and some who work (or sadly, worked) in the restaurant industry. While we are all facing some degree of uncertainty with the Coronavirus impact to businesses and the economy, many in the foodservice side of things have already felt the effects.
The Crazy Feeling of Being the Only Person in the Airport
It was a haunting feeling as I picked up my rental car at Boise Airport yesterday. I was the only one walking through the baggage claim area, and it's never felt more empty. I know we've all heard the stories and warnings. Travel has been greatly reduced, more so every week for the last month, as our region and the entire country have braced for the realities of COVID-19 and all things Coronavirus.
I Found a Secret Stash of This Most Valuable Commodity
For a lot of us, tracking down toilet paper has been a priority and a near impossibility. I haven't found anything good in stores (though I've looked), but I found a few extra rolls yesterday. To be honest, I had forgotten about them, but as I was cleaning up prior to moving out of my old house I had stored the loose rolls of TP in one of the cabinets in the bathroom. My house had two bathrooms and I typically kept 3 new rolls on top of each toilet's water tank.
I Completed my Census Forms and it Was Crazy Easy
There has been a lot of talk over the last few months leading up the 2020 Census. I got my forms in the mail last last week, and completed it online. It was crazy easy. Census officials had been warning us (reinforced with some active marketing) that participation was both essential and simple, and the latter portion turned out to be exactly right in my experience. My packet gave basic instructions and unique code for my address.
I Did Something Crazy: I Deleted my Dating Apps
There's an empty corner of my phone where just a few days ago there was a folder called "Apps of Despair." I did something a little bit crazy. I deleted my dating apps. For me, the two I had been using were Bumble and Tinder. I had tried some of the others with horrible results, so it was down to the primary two for some time. A few weeks ago, I went on a first date with someone I have already come feel really connected to.
Bogus Basin & Brundage Announce Closures as of Tomorrow
As preparations and precautions for COVID-19 and the Coronavirus continue, businesses are making decisions about remaining open. Bogus and Brundage have both decided to close. The closures at both mountain resorts will take effect tomorrow after both had been navigating precautionary guidance and realities of the Coronavirus precautions.
Bogus Basin & Brundage Announce Closures as of Tomorrow
As preparations and precautions for COVID-19 and the Coronavirus continue, businesses are making decisions about remaining open. Bogus and Brundage have both decided to close. The closures at both mountain resorts will take effect tomorrow after both had been navigating precautionary guidance and realities of the Coronavirus precautions.
With the TP Shortage, do You Watch How Much You Use?
We've been hearing and for most of us experiencing the toilet paper shortage that's become status-quo here in the Treasure Valley and across the country, but has it changed you? It has me. I noticed today that both times I used toilet paper, once simply to blow my nose, and the other for traditional purposes, I made a mental note to value what I was doing, and use the least amount possible to still get the job done. This shortage is having an impact on how I use it. That's ridiculous.
Staring Some New Habits at the New House
I just moved into my new house over the last two weekends, and one of the commitments I've made to myself is to use the occasion to reset my tendency to eat out, and cook more at home. A few years ago, I made a big improvement in my health and lost around 50 pounds needed to get back into the range of my ideal weight. I also did a better job following my divorce of leading a more balanced life.
West Ada Schools Reverse Decision to Remain Open: Closed Tomorro
Parents of West Ada schools were informed earlier today that the district intended to be open tomorrow and planned for this week. That has changed and they will be closed through Spring Break. In the districts explanation earlier in the afternoon, they shared that they had met repeatedly and struggled with the complexity of the decision to either close or remain open. It was inferred that services some students receive (such as breakfast and lunch programs) were a large part of that decision.
The Last Step of My Move: Setting Up My Garage
The move to the new house is nearly complete. In fact, all possessions have made the switch, but at the moment, the garage is still in the process of being set up, so it's not quite done. I made a promise to myself as this move was starting. I would use the experience to help me cut down on the clutter and do a bit of minimizing of some things I needed to let go.
I Took the Risk of Ordering my Couch Online...Did it Work Out?
I took a big risk as I moved into my new house. I had to replace my couch and I couldn't find anything here in Boise, so I did the unthinkable and ordered it online. So, it's here now, and do I like it? Yes. I love it. I'm surprised, to be honest, that it worked out. I didn't anticipate it would. In fact, as I was making my purchase on wayfair.com, the most important and in-depth research I did was on the criteria and cost of returns. I was skeptical that it would arrive and I wouldn't like the look.
I Hate the Idea of Creating a Culture of Fear
There is a fine line between being careful and prepared and giving into a culture of fear. That's what I arrived at this weekend after conversations and news about COVID19 and all things Coronavirus. I'm not saying this isn't scary or doesn't have some crazy potential consequences because as the experts have made abundantly clear, it does have that potential.
I'm Missing Therapy and Really Missing Therapy
This is the view I look at typically once a week. It's my therapist's office, and it's a place that has come to be very important and helpful to me. I haven't been the last week, and I notice the difference. This is the second week in the last month that I've had to miss my standing weekly appointment. I was talking to a friend who wasn't able to go this week either, and we were both a little disappointed to miss out. I notice the difference.
Moving Mission Accomplished: The Old House is Empty
As I loaded up the car last night with what would be the final load of stuff inside my old house, I felt a mix of emotions; The satisfaction that the job was complete and gratitude for my years there. This was the 9th house I've lived in during my life (add some dorms and apartments during college too), but this was my first in my life reset that came four years ago.
Are you one of those people who are content with the "Spring ahea
Do you have THAT show? That one that you binged to start your love affair? The one that you can't wait to talk to others about? The one you can't wait to binge again? Here's mine! Money Heist on Netflix. This show is amazing and it's not what I would usually be so fanatical about. It's a drama-meets-thriller, originally aired in Spain and shot in Spanish (dubbed for English, more on that in a moment), and it's one of the most intricate and well developed plots I've ever encountered.
Daylight Saving Time Can Have Major Effects
Are you one of those people who are content with the "Spring ahead" and "Fall back" moves every year, or do you find that Daylight Saving Time messed with you more than it should. If you're part of the latter group, you aren't alone. There is evidence that our bodies take far longer than our minds to get up-to-speed with our twice-yearly clock adjustments. Most of us probably felt a little groggy this morning.
Remember When You Could Keep Your Old Licenses
Prepping for my move the last week meant I was going through cabinets that hadn't really been looked at for about four years. That was an avalanche of memories and some funny old stuff. I came across my first two licenses from Washington State. I grew up in the Seattle area, and I'm not sure if this was something unique to Washington, but back int he late 1990s, when you upgraded your license, you were given your old one with a hole punched in the middle.
More Coffee Companies Refusing Refillable Cups
If you have a refillable cup from Starbucks, you probably heard that they are no longer accepting them (temporarily) due to the Coronavirus. Now, a local Boise coffee shop is following their lead. Moxie Java, based here in Boise, has announced that they are going to make the same choice (though their implementation might look a little more hit-or-miss). The changes will take effect immediately at Moxie's Coprporate Headquarters at 4990 W. Chinden and the corporate-owned store on Glenwood.
Boise's EnergyBags Are Headed in a New Direction
It's not just a funny name, it's actually a solid concept for dealing with solid waste in the City of Trees, but Boise's EnergyBags program has hit another hurdle and will now be changing direction. Literal direction, like where the bags are headed and how they will be utilized. If this concept is new to you, the City of Boise has partnered with Renewology from Salt Lake City for the EnergyBag program. This program collects plastics that are not part of the traditional recycling program.
I've Never Given so Much to Charity but I Should
This whole moving thing has made me realize a number of truths and get honest about them along the way. I keep way too much stuff around thinking I'll use it or sell it, but others could benefit. So, I want to change this. I want to buy less, but if I do have extra stuff, not think I'm going to sell it or hang to it "just in case," but instead pass it along so someone else can put it to good use.
It's What I Didn't Do that Hurt My Best Friend's Feelings
I hate hurting people I love. I do it more than I wish I did, and often, I'm almost oblivious to doing it. That happened again this weekend with my best friend, and fortunately, he said something. It really is an annoying trait, but one that I know is real and I can't deny that it plays a part in how I relate (or don't relate well as the case may be) to those I care about in my life. I'm suck at needing people.
Have You Noticed Every Store Seems to be Picked Over? Blame Coro
I am by no means a health expert nor am I minimizing how serious the Corona Virus 2019 but it's been insane to see so many stores out of basic necessities and such frantic shoppers.
That's More Like It! The New House is Starting to Feel Like Home
I may be the slowest mover in history this round, but I've finally reached the point after the last nine days where I can say, it's pretty much over and the new place feels like home. I moved 4 miles east down McMillan from corner of Chinden and McMillan. It was important to me to keep my son's school situation as stable as I could, so the geography was a bit limited and the supply of houses in the Valley proved to be a challenge.
Making Moving (Forced) Bonding Time With the Kiddo
It gives me great pleasure to say after a couple weekend, for all intents and purposes, I am "in" the new place. The great move of 2020 has concluded, and it included some great bonding time with my son. Granted, he was far less excited about our time together than I was. In fact, I think he would have gladly traded our together time for some uninterrupted device time, some play with a friend, or even a day of reading books.
I'm Grateful for Kindness
I've been thinking about this a lot the last few weeks; I'm so grateful for kindness and people going out of their way to help others out. There have been a few instances of this for me as I was preparing to move to a new house. Our receptionist Cindy started to save any good boxes that came into the office. We never discussed it, she just did it, and it made a big difference for me. Speaking of boxes, Moug gave me his from his move to the Treasure Valley.
Have You Noticed it Takes a Lot More to Bounce Back?
It was moving weekend for me and most of the big and important stuff is done and has made it to the new place. The only thing missing so far? My energy. No one wants to admit they're getting older, but we are, and there are those tell-tale signs that seem to pop up now and then that seem to make it undeniable. What I'm noticing most is that I'm running on about a 48-hour hangover.
Idaho Lawmakers Reject Moving Smoking Age to 21
This makes no sense to me at all, but our Idaho Legislature has decided not to move the legal smoking age to 21, which is the age of the federal law. The legislation was presented to move our state's legal smoking age to 21 which would match it up with the federal law that was passed by the United States Congress and signed into law by President Trump lat year. It failed the Idaho Senate last week going down 10-22.
Moving Weekend is Done and I'm Almost Done
Moving weekend is over and I am almost all set up in my new place. Well, getting close to it, but I'm looking carefully at what stuff left at the old place makes the move over. I have the luxury of a period of time of overlap, so I'm taking advantage of that to look closely at anything and everything I'm taking from the old place to the new one. Nothing makes the move if I haven't used it in the last few years. That standard can be a challenge to uphold, but so far, it's been going well.
Will BMF and Other Expo Idaho Events Have to Move?
Every summer, tens of thousands of Treasure Valley residents pack Expo Idaho for Boise Music Festival (and other events throughout the year). Now, that could be changing if Expo Idaho goes away. You've probably heard that discussion has been underway about the future of the 240 acre Expo Idaho grounds. Developers have expressed interest in the land which has been determined to be appealing for mixed-use growth as the Valley population continues to boom.
Packing Up for the Move and My Son's Room Is a Disaster
This weekend it's time to move from the house we've lived in for the last four years to a new place. One room has been harder to pack out than any other, and it belongs to the half-time resident. My son is 11 years-old and a bit of a hoarder. He likes to hang on to every drawing, big school project, souvenir, and small gift - even from Happy Meals - and really struggles with cleaning out his room normally.
Get Your Finances Figured Out Free at BSU
Experts say it's one of the biggest "issues" in relationships and one of the biggest stressors in life: Money. Now BSU will be hosting a free financial seminar for young adults in March. Mountain America Credit Union will be teaming up with Young Money University and Boise State to offer the free financial success seminar on the campus on March 10th and 11th.
Will BMF and Other Expo Idaho Events Have to Move?
Every summer, tens of thousands of Treasure Valley residents pack Expo Idaho for Boise Music Festival (and other events throughout the year). Now, that could be changing if Expo Idaho goes away. You've probably heard that discussion has been underway about the future of the 240 acre Expo Idaho grounds. Developers have expressed interest in the land which has been determined to be appealing for mixed-use growth as the Valley population continues to boom.
I Sold My Couch and Learned About Facebook Marketplace
My living room feels extra empty this morning. Where once there were shelves and an entertainment center there is empty wall. Best yet, where my couch used to be is now just carpet. It sold! I had listed it on Facebook Marketplace, my first "big item" I had ever sold through the service, and thanks to your feedback and advice, I learned a few lessons along the way.
This Winter has Been Warmer than Usual
It seems almost conflicting, but while this winter has meant great snow in the mountains, it's also going to go on record as being warmer than usual in the Treasure Valley. According to our news partner KTVB Newschannel 7, our official "meteorological winter" (December, January, February) has shown abnormally warm temperatures across the entire region. Enough so to hit record temperatures more than once.
Want to Vote Early in Ada and Canyon County? What You Need to Kno
There's no doubt, it's election time and politics are front-and-center all around the country and the Treasure Valley is no exception. As of today, early voting has started in both Ada and Canyon County. This opportunity allows registered voters in both counties to cast their ballots early for the 2020 Presidential Primary election. This window begins today and runs through March 6th. Voters who choose to take part in early voting will have to do so at a select few locations.
Want to Vote Early in Ada and Canyon County? What You Need to Kno
There's no doubt, it's election time and politics are front-and-center all around the country and the Treasure Valley is no exception. As of today, early voting has started in both Ada and Canyon County. This opportunity allows registered voters in both counties to cast their ballots early for the 2020 Presidential Primary election. This window begins today and runs through March 6th. Voters who choose to take part in early voting will have to do so at a select few locations.
I'm Trying to Sell a Couch but Must be Doing Something Wrong
I have come to the realization I must be doing something wrong. I've been trying to sell my sectional couch on Facebook Marketplace, and I can't seem to get it done. Maybe it's over-priced? Maybe it's that the size is a bit unusual (it's built for a rectangular room for sure). Maybe it's the color? At this point, there has been a good amount of interest, I've had people out to my house to see it, and no one has opted to even make a counter-offer on my price.
If You Deal With Depression You Deserve Help
If you are someone who deals with depression or have someone in your life who does, you probably know the power and effect it can have. I've been thinking a lot about it lately and I wish help was easier to find. I have a couple people I'm very close to that struggle with depression.
Boise Does Beautiful Exceptionally Well
As I've been preparing to move, I've been cleaning out cabinets, boxes, and even some files on old flash drives and computers. I came across a few shots of the beautiful place we call home and wanted to share. I think it's natural, we take for granted what an amazing place we call home. It's not intentional, we just go about our daily lives, things, get busy, you sometimes forget to take a moment and appreciate what's around.
I Tried Something New This Weekend; Shooting Guns
Different people have different ways of relaxing and unwinding and for some time I've had a few friends recommending heading to the shooting range to let off some steam. After this weekend, I get it. This was my second time firing guns at the shooting range, but it was a really good time. The first time was about seven years ago on a business trip. It was included as our entertainment and a way for us to remember the trip.
As the Treasure Valley Grows Downtown Boise is Doing the Same
It's no secret, the Treasure Valley is booming and growth is happening all around the region. That is especially true in Downtown Boise as new businesses, developments, and housing keep coming. There have been numerous new hotels, the expanded convention space, shops and restaurants, and condos and apartments filling in what had been abandoned or under-utilized lots.
Need a Great Date Night Location? Here's a Few Ideas
Over the last few weeks, my life has gotten a lot more fun with the introduction of someone I've had the chance to go on a handful of dates. Now, I've been on the hunt for new places we need to eat. It hasn't been a problem yet, in fact, both she and I have realized we're both pretty chill, enjoy a good glass of wine, and don't have high expectation for where we go.
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