THE A PUBLICATION FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF FIRST FEDERAL
BANK
A PUBLICATION FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF FIRST FEDERAL BANK
The Association
SPRING 2024
theassociation THE ASSOCIATION
First Federal Bank Board
Tom E. Ashenbrener Chairman; Twin Falls, ID
Jason A. Meyerhoeffer Twin Falls, ID
Jeffery O. Williams Ketchum, ID
Jessica A. Flynn Boise, ID
Stephen D. Westfall Burley, ID
Lori H. Ward Twin Falls, ID
Jay P. Dodds Twin Falls, ID
First Federal Bank Executive Team
Jason A. Meyerhoeffer
President and Chief Executive Officer
Brenda K. Hughes
Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer
Michael D. Traveller
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
Jeff C. Jardine
Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer
Michael W. Worthington
Shane T. Jenkins
Melanie Weir Senior
Magic
Senior
Mark
On the Cover: Red Fish Lake by Ron Rasmussen, Vice President, Magic Valley Commercial Lending Team Lead Contents 3 4 5 6-7 Brewing Community One Pint at a Time at Koto Brewing Co. First Fed Focus by Chad Biggs 8-9 Jay Dodds: Reflecting on a Career of Accomplishments Banker Bio by Chad Biggs 2023 First Federal Bank Annual Report 10 Bank Board of Directors 10 Bank Executive Leadership Team 11 Mission and Vision 11 Abbreviated Financial Statement 12 Community Service Report Management 13 Product Highlight: The Trade-In Mortgage 14 Empowering Idaho Students: First Federal and IHSAA Collaborate on Financial Literacy Portal Commitment to Community by Chadd Biggs 15 Garlic Sesame Soba Noodle Salad Recipe Courtesy of Rudy’s - A Cook’s Paradise 15 The Offseason Angler Angle by Mark Stevens Association The THE A PUBLICATION FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF FIRST FEDERAL BANK Association THE A PUBLICATION FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF FIRST FEDERAL BANK A PUBLICATION FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF FIRST FEDERAL BANK theassociation THE ASSOCIATION This advertisement is being provided for informational purposes only. All products subject to approval. Institution NMLS#402963 Staff Nick L. Popplewell Editor-in-Chief
L. Bendele-Nichols Executive Editor
Creative Photography
Tereasa
Carli Hobson/CB
Copywriter
Chad Biggs/Red Sky
Senior Vice President, Chief Risk Officer
Senior Vice President, Chief Credit Officer
Vice President,
Valley
President
Market
James M. Reames
Vice President, Treasure Valley Market President
D. Stevens
President, Human Resources Director
Vice
President,
Director
Nick L. Popplewell Vice
Marketing
Jason A. Meyerhoeffer | First Federal Bank President and CEO
Welcome to the first edition of our new quarterly newsletter, The Association. It is an opportunity for us to communicate more directly with you, our members. We hope you find it interesting and beneficial. This inaugural edition has an annual report theme, which is also the focus of my commentary.
In thinking about this past year, as well as moving forward, I asked myself, “As a member of First Federal, what questions would I want the Bank’s CEO to answer?” So, I will try to answer those questions I thought would be of most interest to you.
My first question would be, “Is my money safe?” I can answer that question very clearly. YES! Your deposits are safe on a number of levels. First, deposits up to $250,000 are insured by the FDIC, and there has never been a cent lost on FDIC insured bank deposits. If you happen to be fortunate enough to have more than $250,000 on deposit with First Federal, we have excellent options to insure or secure all your deposits. If that is a concern for you, I encourage you to speak with one of our Customer Service Representatives to determine the best solution for you. Finally, First Federal remains a safe and sound institution. We continue to maintain capital levels well above the “well-capitalized” threshold as defined by banking regulations. So, I can confidently say your deposits are safe at First Federal.
The second question I might ask is, “What is First Federal doing to help me improve my financial wellbeing?” I am going to answer that question by starting with the basics. The first rung of the financial wellbeing ladder is building a foundation of savings. First Federal is a leader in offering convenient and safe options for savings. And for the first time in several years, higher interest rates have provided savers with excellent opportunities to enjoy attractive yields.
To help members establish regular savings habits, we recently introduced our new SuperSaver account. This unique account pays an industry-leading interest rate on balances up to $500, and a premium yield on balances up to $2,000 for members who make regular deposits into their savings account.
We also launched a new and improved Rewards Checking account, offering an amazing annual percentage yield (APY) on balances up to $20,000 for qualifying accounts. I am proud that First Fed is a leader in offering creative solutions to help members improve their financial wellbeing.
Finally, we introduced First Federal Wealth and Investment Management this past fall to help members in taking the next steps in their financial journey. Our Wealth and Investment Management services focus on financial planning and advisory services, consistent with First Fed’s mission of helping individuals achieve longterm financial success.
Of course, we are still focused on helping people achieve homeownership and the financial benefits that come with it—or tap into the equity in their homes without losing the benefit of a low rate on their existing mortgage. And, we continue to help business owners fund operations, equipment, and facilities needed to grow their businesses.
So, First Federal is doing A LOT to help improve financial wellbeing.
Finally, I might ask, “How is First Federal making a positive difference in my community?” As a community bank, our most basic function is that of a financial intermediary. Your deposits stay here in Southern Idaho, supporting our local economy through loans to individuals and businesses. This is the life blood of economic activity and creates employment opportunities, wealth, and vibrant communities.
In addition, First Fed continues to be a leader in our communities through employee engagement and financial support. In 2023, Bank employees volunteered hundreds of hours to various causes, events, and boards. First Fed also contributed over $370,000 in donations and sponsorships. And the First Federal Foundation donated more than $110,000 to 35 local non-profits.
So, First Federal is also making a positive difference in our communities.
Hopefully, I have answered questions that were of interest to you. But if you have other questions, we always welcome the opportunity to have a more in-depth conversation. We also hope this newsletter serves as the start of a conversation we continue for a long time.
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NON-PROFIT HIGHLIGHT
Chad Biggs | Red Sky
Building Confidence and Community: Girls on the Run
A family friend notices an improved attitude. A teacher sees improved confidence. A girl proves to herself that she can achieve her goals.
These few examples highlight the positive impact of Girls on the Run Southern Idaho across the Magic Valley and surrounding counties. Under Executive Director Teressa Johnson, the youth-serving charity integrates running with experiential lessons, teaching life skills such as confidence, empathy, and conflict resolution to girls in 3rd-5th grades, with a parallel program, Heart & Sole, for 6th-8th graders.
“We use running as a medium for teaching,” explains Teressa. “The girls are learning how to be kind to themselves first, recognize their own inner voice, and express their emotions in a healthy way.”
Girls of any ability can join either program, experiencing growth through small running goals over an eight-week season, culminating in a 5K run. The journey includes community service and lessons on kindness, resilience, and inclusion.
The transformation is evident to coaches, parents, and the girls’ social network. Improved confidence, better classroom participation and the joy of forming new friendships are just some common outcomes.
Like many youthserving nonprofits, Teressa relies on dedicated volunteers to serve girls and personally manages every aspect of each program. That was becoming a struggle with outdated technology and tools.
Late last year, Teressa applied for a grant from the First Federal Foundation, known for actively supporting local educational, civic, and cultural initiatives in the community. To date, the First Federal Foundation has awarded more than $1.4 million to community causes.
The grant they received enabled new technology purchases, enhancing program delivery and outreach. “I’m so grateful for the support as it helps us achieve our mission,” says Teressa. “It’s allowed me to serve the volunteers and families better through improved communication and organization.”
Thanks to community support and improved resources, Girls on the Run Southern Idaho aims to inspire more local girls, helping them find their strengths and potential.
“Girls are getting out of it what they need - whether that’s confidence, activity, or friendships,” notes Teressa.
If you want to learn more about Girls on the Run or provide support, go to www.gotrsouthernidaho.org.
COMMENTARY C-SUITE
Michael D. Traveller First Federal Bank Chief Financial Officer
Housing Market Concerns
The housing market continues to be a hot topic nationally. To better understand the current market conditions, it is important to recognize the Federal Reserve’s role and intentions. The Federal Reserve’s goals are to keep prices stable and achieve maximum employment. It uses shortterm interest rates to help reach its goals, which influence the availability and cost of credit in the economy. The Federal Reserve monetary policy directly affects interest rates; it indirectly affects housing inventories, stock prices, wealth, and a variety of other things.
The impact on housing inventories has been more dramatic recently for the following reasons:
y 10 years of historically low interest rates followed by some of the most significant interest rate increases – in terms of magnitude and pace – that we have ever seen.
y Many homeowners upgraded their housing or refinanced existing mortgages in the historically low interest rate environment - giving them less of a reason to look for a new home.
y Some homeowners are now held hostage by their low-rate mortgages and cannot afford to upgrade their housing in the current environment – leading to fewer existing homes on the market.
Further, as a point of reference, there is almost a 3-percentage point differential between interest rates homeowners are paying now compared to what they would pay at the current market rate. Using this in an example, on a $400,000 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage (FYI - the January 2024 median home sales price in Idaho was
$447,600), the difference in the monthly payment would be an additional $735 per month!
Also impacting the current housing market – lower home inventories leading to higher prices and fewer existing home sales. Existing home sales are currently below the 34-year average by approximately 20%, and new home sales have just recently returned to the 34-year average. With extremely low home sales inventory and the supply of new homes unable to fill the gap, demand will continue to outpace supply and put pressure on home sales prices. This is a real problem for affordable housing. According to a recent study by the National Association of Realtors, housing affordability declined to its lowest levels on record.
So, what are the solutions to these complex housing market problems? There are no magic pills or quick fixes. These are complex issues with a variety of moving parts. But housing markets, like most markets, are cyclical, and as with most cycles, time heals wounds. Interest rates will come down as inflation comes down.
Another possible solution to watch over the next few years is demographics. Baby Boomers make up almost 40% of total homeowner households. Homeownership rates tend to increase as households age, then gradually decline as households age beyond age 75. The youngest Baby Boomers will turn 60 this year. Another group to watch is Millennials – the largest demographic. Millennials will be turning 28 to 43 this year and many will be looking to buy homes over the next 10 years.
These are complex issues and interesting facts to consider . . . but your call to action is simple: align yourself with a First Federal Mortgage Banking Professional who can help you with your homeownership, home improvement, and financial wellness goals. You don’t have to stay on top of all these complex issues – because your Mortgage Banking Professional will.
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FIRST FED :
| Red Sky
Brewing Community One Pint at a Time at Koto Brewing Co.
More than a decade ago, Utah’s expensive beer prompted Shane Cook to start brewing his own. Back then he had no plans to move to Twin Falls and zero desire to open his own restaurant.
Today, his Koto Brewing Co. location is more than a place to enjoy a craft beer. It’s a community hub, a tribute to local history and a testament to Shane’s resilience… and adaptability.
Shane’s restaurant industry journey began at KFC during his teens. His culinary passion led him through various roles, from chef at Yellowstone’s Old Faithful Inn to revitalizing struggling bagel chain stores. A similar role relocated his family to the Magic Valley, but his last restaurant job had him planning to leave the industry altogether.
He was considering a cardboard factory job when a friend informed him about an available space in a historic downtown Twin Falls building. His friend urged him to try his own thing and be his own boss. Soon after, Shane opened Twin Falls Sandwich Company.
Though the sandwich shop kept him busy, Shane’s interest in brewing continued to grow. A contact at the sandwich shop connected him with Pierre Tusow, and they became fast friends over hops and barley. Today Pierre is Koto’s brewmaster.
While Pierre and Shane renovated the brewery space, they had no set name for their next adventure, until they found themselves staring at the 2x4s. Their building was home to the historic Koto family restaurant (Tom’s Café) in the 1920s, one of the city’s first fine dining options. Shane felt compelled to honor this legacy by carrying the name forward and continuing the Koto family’s community-focused approach and attention to quality.
As Shane talked to the Koto family to seek their approval, he learned more about their history. Beyond opening one of the first fine dining locations, marked by table linens and aquariums with fresh fish, the Kotos were one of the first Japanese-American families to reside in Twin Falls. During World War 2, the family was relocated to the internment camp in Minidoka. Recognizing this history, for multiple years, Koto Brewing has hosted camp survivors when they reunite each year to tell stories and see one another.
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Chad Biggs
Shane also references the Koto family legacy with some menu items in the realm of Asian fusion. And, he prioritizes local ingredients whenever possible. Most hops are sourced within 60 miles and the base grain is sourced near Idaho Falls. Local produce is also a regular part of the menu ingredients. Additionally, Koto used local contractors for construction to keep money within the Twin Falls economy.
“It’s not just about beer; it’s about building a community,” Shane says. “I see the guys who worked on the
HVAC, the guys who worked on our floors. They come in and tell their families because they’re proud of what they did here and I’m proud of the work they did as well.”
Koto also fosters community through live music, fundraising events, and by supporting local charities, from youth sports to pet rescues.
Like any business, Shane faced challenges, especially during the pandemic. He relied on First Federal Bank for business loans, pandemic aid, and daily operations, knowing he could call Kai Mathews, his business banker, any time he needed his counsel. His wife, Emily, is a long-time First Fed employee, and Shane and his English Bulldog, Walter, visit the bank daily.
The uniqueness of owning a brewery keeps Shane energized. “What gets me motivated and drives me nuts is the constant change in this business,” he says.
In the end, Koto Brewing Co. stands as a testament to Shane’s resilience, vision, and commitment. It’s a place where locals can enjoy a pint of craft beer, listen to live music, and feel the convergence of history and community.
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BANKER BI FEATURING
Jay Dodds
Biggs | Red Sky
Reflecting on a Career of Accomplishment
Banking on Relationships and Gratitude
Banking may be synonymous with relationships, but Jay Dodds’ career paints a deeper picture. After one conversation, it is clear how his relationships thrive on gratitude, are grounded by faith and family, and draw inspiration from the remarkable people he has met and worked beside.
Growing up in Twin Falls, Jay was inspired by his father James. While James’s long career with First Federal made a lasting impression, including as President in the 1970s and 80s, so did his support of Jay’s ninth grade Science Fair project. James coded and implemented the bank’s first computer system with his Data Processing leader, Elaine Wigington. When a 14-year-old Jay gathered information from his classmates with plans to analyze and present results to his freshman class, the two provided their expertise.
While Jay won the Science Fair, it was still more about the people he was interacting with than data points.
A Transformative Experience
Jay’s ability to see the potential in and perseverance of people started before 1978. When he embarked on his two-year Latter-day Saint mission to Argentina it crystallized. Spending time in cities like Mendoza and Cordoba, Jay immersed himself in the local culture while teaching others about his faith. Jay developed a profound appreciation for others by conversing with locals as they navigated challenges including inflation rates over 100% and a recent military takeover.
“Being able to have conversations with people who were looking for hope in their lives … I just really enjoyed talking to them and was impressed with how good the people were.”
The experience also reinforced his gratitude for the opportunities back home. Jay returned to Twin Falls in 1980 and married his high school sweetheart, Sandy, shortly afterward. Soon he was pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration on the way to a career in Finance.
In 1985, Jay’s father recruited him to First Federal. Jay worked closely with him for over a year, gaining an understanding of banking, accounting, and technology implementation. This was no longer about Science Fair trophies. Instead, his father’s mentorship helped shape his understanding of what members wanted and needed in their community bank.
Starting as Treasurer, Jay eventually progressed to roles of CFO and COO, overseeing growing areas of the bank during times of relative calm as well as the more disruptive times of the 1980s, and significant banking technology advancements from the 1990s to today.
Implementing Innovation
In 1992, Jay took on a leadership role to select a new core banking system, as the Bank planned to transition from its outdated, homegrown system. He spearheaded a thorough evaluation process, which included visiting other institutions across the country to review different vendor options.
A knowledgeable and dedicated First Federal team, including Elaine Wigington and Mike Traveller, worked with Jay to analyze the pros and cons of each system. Through analysis and collaboration, Jay helped make an informed decision to implement a new core system that positioned First Fed well for future technological and financial growth.
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Chad
A Path Forged, Not Followed
Jay understandably credits his father as an inspiration for his career, but they took different paths and approaches to their destination. Jay would tap James as the more hands-on technology expert, but Jay learned how to empower a team to make good decisions, resulting in both technological and financial success. And while his father’s style was more direct and to the point, Jay tried to focus on communication, collaboration, and encouragement to get the job done.
“I remember talking to my dad and saying that I wish I were more like you. He looked at me and he said no, you need to be who you are because you have some talents that I definitely don’t have, especially your ability to work with people.”
This insight helped Jay realize he just needed to be the best version of himself to succeed. He references a list of mentors and influencers who shaped everything from prioritization, delegation, and working with others.
Most importantly, he continued learning and growing throughout his career by reflecting on challenges and successes with the goal of self-improvement. Jay also focused on providing opportunities for growth and success to those around him.
Making a Difference
Jay enjoyed opportunities to provide service to worthy nonprofit organizations in the Magic Valley. He spent over 18 years on the board of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Magic Valley, including some time helping with financial oversight as Treasurer. He is very proud of First Federal’s significant support of the Club over many years.
Additionally, Jay supported the Boy Scouts in several roles throughout the years. Community leader Curtis Eaton also asked him to join the Twin Falls County Health Initiatives Trust, where Jay helped oversee funds that supported local health-focused projects.
A Lasting Legacy
As Jay reflects on his years with First Federal, he encourages those interested in banking to explore the many career paths in addition to the more traditional teller and loan officer roles, including finance, IT, compliance, marketing, human resources, operations, and management. He believes growing careers are attainable from all levels in banking.
When asked how he wants to be remembered, it comes down to relationships. Specifically, he would like to be remembered as someone who was there for others.
“Being there for them was being there for the bank because the bank’s mission is to enhance the well-being of our members by providing solutions to their financial needs. Whatever we can do together to enhance the wellbeing of our members, our employees and our communities is the goal. I was all in on that.”
Jay also remains all in on recognizing those who helped him along the way.
“I’m grateful for my predecessors and current mentors who have made this all possible. I look at my dad, I look at Rick Allen, Alan Horner, Jason Meyerhoeffer and a lot of people who’ve been around me over the years. My experience is positive because of all of them.
“I can’t say enough about that.”
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Thank You, Jay!
2023 FIRST FEDERAL BANK ANNUAL REPORT Page 10 Executive Leadership Team Jeff C. Jardine Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer Shane T. Jenkins Senior Vice President, Chief Credit Officer Michael W. Worthington Senior Vice President, Chief Risk Officer Mark D. Stevens Vice President, Human Resources Director Nick L. Popplewell Vice President, Marketing Director Jason A. Meyerhoeffer President, Chief Executive Officer James M. Reams Senior Vice President, Treasure Valley Market President Melanie Weir Senior Vice President, Magic Valley Market President Brenda K. Hughes Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer Michael D. Traveller Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Thomas E. Ashenbrener Chairman Jay P. Dodds 1991 Stephen D. Westfall 1992 Jessica A. Flynn 2022 Jason A. Meyerhoeffer 2003 Lori H. Ward 2018 Jeffry O. Williams 2015 First Federal Bank Board of Directors
OUR MISSION OUR VISION
To enhance the well-being of our customers by providing solutions to their financial needs.
Provide knowledgeable staff to build relationships, understand financial needs, and provide solutions that exceed our customers’ expectations.
Page 11 Consolidated Unaudited Financial Statement Mission & Vision of First Federal Bank At the close of Business on December 31, 2023 ASSETS Cash & Equivalents $45,399,000 $23,045,000 $22,460,000 $22,878,000 $18,379,000 $19,929,000 $42,587,000 $14,061,000 $5,071,000 $3,025,000 $105,305,000 $97,382,000 $113,000,000 $169,000,000 Mortgage, Commercial & Consumer Loans Office Buildings & Equipment (Net of Depreciation) Investment Securities Other Assets LIABILITIES & EQUITY Total Assets Deposit Accounts Commercial Sweep Accounts Borrowings Other Liabilities Total Liabilities Total Equity Capital Total Liabilities & Equity 12/31/2023 12/31/2022 $ $200,000,000 $400,000,000 $600,000,000 $800,000,000 $1,000,000,000 $1,200,000,000 $1,400,000,000 $ $200,000,000 $400,000,000 $600,000,000 $800,000,000 $1,000,000,000 $1,200,000,000 $1,400,000,000 $1,026,762,000 $920,042,000 $1,459,108,000 $1,362,504,000 $1,459,108,000 $1,362,504,000 $1,353,803,000 $1,265,122,000 $1,193,145,000 $1,079,036,000 $346,108,000 $376,610,000
contributed over
$370,000
And over granted by the First Federal Foundation to
$110,000 in donations and sponsorships to Magic and Treasure Valley groups and organizations that help children, seniors, people struggling with addiction, food banks, and other high-need groups that are often overlooked.
FOR A COMBINED TOTAL OF MORE THAN
$480,000
In September, Wealth and Investment Management debuted at First Federal Bank. This newly created division provides numerous services, complementing First Fed’s other financial offerings and adds to the Bank’s ability to improve members’ financial well-being. Services that are offered include investment advising, retirement planning, estate planning, tax optimization, as well as comprehensive wealth management strategies.
different organizations within the Magic and Treasure Valleys. Often each grant will touch the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of people.
Our employees also made a difference in our community, with HOURS OF VOLUNTEER WORK!
“Adding wealth and investment management is another step towards our goal of providing best-in-class services to our members,” said Jason A. Meyerhoeffer, President and CEO of First Federal Bank.
For more information about Wealth and Investment Management and to schedule a consultation, visit BankFirstFed.com/Wealth.
2023 FIRST FEDERAL BANK ANNUAL REPORT Page 12 WEALTH & INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT Securities offered through IFP Securities, LLC, dba Independent Financial Partners (IFP), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through IFP Advisors, LLC, dba Independent Financial Partners (IFP), a Registered Investment Advisor. IFP and First Federal Bank are not affiliated. Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency | Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate | Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested | May Lose Value
of Service: Wealth Management Community Service Report
Expansion
2023 IN
Unlocking Opportunities: The Benefits of First Federal Bank
partnering with Calque Trade-In Mortgage
Brenda Hughes | First Federal Bank Chief Operating Officer
In a world where convenience and speed are paramount, the new collaboration between First Federal Bank and Calque Trade-In Mortgage, stands out as a beacon of innovation and member-centric solutions. This partnership brings a multitude of benefits to members seeking to purchase a new home, while managing the sale of a current home with less stress. The Trade-In Mortgage offers the following benefits:
1. Use the equity in your current home to buy and move into a new home.
2. A quick review and approval process to receive a purchase-price guarantee on your existing home.
3. Use the purchase-price guarantee to confidently make an offer on the home of your dreams.
4. Move into your new home while marketing your existing home for sale.
5. Sell your original home knowing you have a guaranteed offer if needed.
Streamlined Processes for Seamless Transactions
Trade-In Mortgage’s platform is designed to simplify and expedite the mortgage application and approval process by making a guaranteed offer on an existing home. By leveraging this partnership, First Federal can help borrowers qualify for a new home before their current home has been sold. Trade-In Mortgage offers a user-friendly interface, combined with transparent and real-time updates, which ensures members are well-informed at every stage of the purchase-price guarantee journey. From the initial application to the closing of the mortgage, the collaboration ensures a hassle-free journey, savings members valuable time and reducing the stress associated with home selling, buying, and financing.
Tailored Solutions
First Fed members are the ultimate beneficiaries of this partnership between First Federal Bank and Trade-In Mortgage. The collaboration opens doors to allow buyers to make competitive offers on a new home, along with personalized solutions to the member’s unique financial situation. This commitment to tailoring mortgage solutions ensures that members receive the most advantageous terms based on their specific needs and financial goals.
Accelerated Approval Process
First Federal recognizes time is of the essence when it comes to securing a mortgage. The alliance between First Fed and Trade-In Mortgage places a premium on efficiency, expediting the approval process to meet the needs of today’s fast-paced real estate markets. Through the technology offered in the Trade-In Mortgage processes and a commitment to member satisfaction, this partnership ensures members experience swift and reliable approval timelines, allowing them to confidently pursue their homeownership dreams without unnecessary delays.
Overall, we are excited to announce our partnership with Calque, a strategic partner helping us provide safe and compliant ‘buy before you sell’ solutions. Together, we share a common vision of meeting the financial needs of our members, helping them achieve their homeownership goals. By combining our mortgage expertise with their guaranteed backup offer, we can offer you a loan that empowers you to buy and move into your new home before you list and sell your current one. Contact us today or visit BankFirstFed. com/trade-in for full program details and to see how we can help you secure your home dreams.
Product Highlight All Credit Products Subject to Approval. Institution NMLS#402963
COMMITMENT TO Community
Empowering Idaho Students: First Federal and IHSAA Collaborate on Financial Literacy Portal
Last year, as the Idaho Legislature set financial literacy requirements for high school students, Idaho High School Activities Association (IHSAA) Executive Director Ty Jones was watching closely. First Federal’s leadership team was also monitoring the situation, hoping to find a way to use the Bank’s knowledge and resources to help Idaho students and teachers.
“We knew we could help schools, but we didn’t have a clear path to share our expertise broadly, much less state-wide,” noted Nick Popplewell, Vice President and Marketing Director, First Federal Bank. “Fortunately, IHSAA approached us with an opportunity to partner. The timing could not have been better.”
“I’ve known people at First Federal my whole life,” said Jones. “Their values of community involvement and personalized customer service really resonated with our goals at IHSAA.”
Eager to get going, First Federal identified a technology partner to start building a financial literacy portal. A joint effort between First Fed and IHSAA and hosted by Everfi, the portal will provide access to resources and tutorials for Idaho high school students and their families. It will also supplement existing class curricula, to help educators meet the state’s new education requirements.
The EverFi portal will provide fun and engaging lessons on topics like using checking and savings accounts, understanding loans and credit, and planning for large future expenses like college.
Everfi’s successful work spans over 25,000 schools, and collaborations with the NFL and various universities.
“Financial literacy skills are so important for students as they prepare for life after graduation,” noted Jones. “Our goal is to impact all students, not just athletes.”
As the exclusive financial partner of the Idaho High School Activities Association, First Fed has exciting plans for future initiatives with the IHSAA. It is also proud to be the presenting sponsor of multiple IHSAA programs, including recognizing the efforts of students and schools through the Academic State Champions, Schools of Excellence, and the Interscholastic Star Award, each embodying the very essence of First Fed’s values.
“Looking ahead, we’re in discussions with the IHSAA to launch a month-long Financial Literacy campaign every April, timed for National Financial Literacy month. Additionally, we’re exploring the possibility of schools hosting financial literacy promotions during home games and events across various sports,” shared Popplewell.
Students and educators alike will be able to access the financial literacy portal by visiting the IHSAA or First Federal websites
Chad Biggs | Red Sky
Garlic Sesame Soba Noodle Salad
Category: Main Dish
Cuisine: Asian Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Fresh and bright, this intensely flavored Asian inspired dish is delicious immediately or after a day, making it great for taking to parties or enjoying as leftovers.
Ingredients
y 12 oz Soba Noodles
y ¼ cup Tamari or Soy Sauce
y 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar
y 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
y 2 Tbsp Ginger White Barrel Aged Balsamic
y ¼ cup Toasted Sesame Oil
y 1 Carrot, julienne cut or grated
y 1 Cucumber, julienne cut or grated
y 1 Green Onion, sliced thin
y Sesame Seeds, for garnish
The Offseason
Daylight Savings is upon us. Temps are coming up, mostly. The midges are making an appearance and we can once again fish dry flies, like civilized fly fishers. And then suddenly, it’s over.
The end of March in Idaho signals a stop to the fishing, and it feels like we just got started again. This isn’t wholly true; there are places to go. However, many of our favorite places close this time of year and won’t reopen until Memorial Day weekend. Idaho is home to many introduced species but, unlike many parts of the West, Rainbow Trout are native to Idaho, as are our beloved Cutthroat. These fish spawn in the Spring, and it’s not a bad thing to give them a break and let them do their thing.
While it can be agonizing after a long winter not to jump back at it, the “offseason” isn’t such a bad time. It’s a chance to get your fly boxes back in order, especially
Directions
y Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain.
y In a medium size bowl, whisk together the tamari, brown sugar, garlic, and vinegar. While whisking, drizzle in the oil.
y Toss the carrot, cucumber, and noodles with the dressing until well coated. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with the green onion and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Recipe courtesy of Rudy’s - A Cook’s Paradise
if you didn’t do enough fly tying over the winter. It’s a chance to look over your gear, replace old leaders and fly lines, patch leaky waders, and generally gear up.
It’s a time to chase other species if you’ve been too “trout myopic”. Maybe this is the year you chase the spring run of Steelhead in Stanley (and remember why you didn’t last year when you fought for a spot and froze your feet in the arctic waters of the Salmon River). Maybe you try your hand at smallmouth bass on a fly rod – they’re great fun; I caught them regularly when I lived in Virginia. Or maybe you’ll chase my favorite Spring fish, Rocky Mountain Bonefish, aka Carp!
The offseason isn’t a time to sulk. It’s a time to gear up for summer, to try something new, and to remember why we love this sport so much. As an ex-guide, I learned to love Spring, with its wind and its unpredictable weather. It’s a time for new flies, new gear, and new fish. Try it, you just might like it!
Angle Angle
Mark Stevens | First Federal Bank Human Resources Director
BETTER BUSINESS BANKING
Business success depends a lot on your financial institution. Choose one that provides businesses with a competitive advantage.
First Fed Makes Businesses Better.
First Federal knows what goes into owning and operating a business. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities. First Fed is here to help with the daily operations as well as planning for what’s to come.
Give First Fed’s market-leading business products and award-winning customer service a try!
Idaho’s Community Bank of Choice!
BOX 249 | Twin Falls, Idaho 83303
733-4222
PO
(208)
BankFirstFed.com/Business