THE A PUBLICATION FOR CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS OF FIRST FEDERAL
Also inside:
• Hear from CEO and President Jason A. Meyerhoeffer
• First Fed’s Support of the South Central Community Action Partnership
• Clothing and Chocolates Never Looked and Tasted so Good!
BANK
Staff
Nick L. Popplewell Editor-in-Chief
Tereasa L. Bendele-Nichols Executive Editor
Carli Hobson/CB Creative Photography
Chad Biggs/Red Sky Copywriter
First Federal Bank Board
Thomas E. Ashenbrener Chairman; Twin Falls, ID
Jay P. Dodds Twin Falls, ID
Jason A. Meyerhoeffer Twin Falls, ID
Jeffery O. Williams Ketchum, ID
Lori H. Ward Twin Falls, ID
Jess A. Flynn Boise, ID
Troy L. Mahlke Twin Falls, ID
First Federal Bank Executive Team
Jason A. Meyerhoeffer President and Chief Executive Officer
Brenda K. Hughes
Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer
Michael D. Traveller
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
Shane T. Jenkins
Executive Vice President, Chief Credit Officer
Jeff C. Jardine
Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer
Michael W. Worthington
Senior Vice President, Chief Risk Officer
Melanie Weir
Senior Vice President, Magic Valley Market President
James M. Reames
Senior Vice President, Treasure Valley Market President
Mark D. Stevens
Vice President, Human Resources Director
Nick L. Popplewell
Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer
Jason A. Meyerhoeffer | First Federal Bank President and CEO
I think most of us would agree that Southern Idaho is a great place to live. With its unique and beautiful landscapes, abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, and an attractive way of life, this area has long been treasured by natives and is increasingly being discovered by others. In addition to these qualities, and partly because of them, we also enjoy good economic conditions and opportunities.
Idaho’s economy has been resilient and even thrived through the past five years of volatility. As of the third quarter of 2024, Idaho’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew at an annual rate of 4.6% compared to 2.7% for the nation. Idaho’s personal income also grew by an annualized rate of 3.9% compared to 3.2% for the U.S.
Idaho’s employment growth has been equally impressive. In 2024, Idaho’s nonfarm employment grew by 3.6% compared to 1.4% for the nation. In fact, Idaho’s employment has now recovered back to its pre-pandemic trendline. Zooming into our Southern Idaho markets, nonfarm jobs grew during the same period by 2.4% in the Twin Falls metropolitan statistical area (MSA) and 4.6% in the Boise MSA.
Idaho’s unemployment rate has also fared well at 3.8% versus 4.1% for the nation. Unemployment locally was 3.8%, 3.6%, and 3.1% in the Twin Falls, Boise, and Burley market areas, respectively. Interesting, job postings per unemployed Idahoan is right at 1.0, meaning that the number of unemployed workers is nearly equal to the number of job postings.
While we are fortunate to enjoy good economic conditions, growth creates its own challenges. In a 2024 Idaho Department of Labor survey, the top concerns listed by Idaho businesses were: 1) supply or cost of workers, 2) economic uncertainty, and 3) high labor turnover. It is likely these challenges will continue into the near future.
So, what does all this mean as we look forward to 2025? I am always hesitant to offer forecasts since I do not own a crystal ball and even the “experts” are usually wrong on their economic forecasts. The world has too many moving parts and surprises for anybody to confidently forecast future economic activity. With that said, the Idaho Division of Financial Management produces an economic forecast in its efforts to estimate state tax revenues. Unsurprising, the state forecasts continued strong economic activity for Idaho.
Nonfarm employment is projected to grow by 2.4% annually through 2027—not as strong as this past year, but still well above the current national rate. Annual growth for personal income and wages is forecasted at 6.44% and 7.26%, respectively, for the same period.
Those figures all seem reasonable based on where we are today. But, as a banker and amateur economist, I would argue the level and direction of interest rates will have the largest impact on all these metrics. Interest rates are the most important price in the world. They have a major effect on everything from the number of homes being built, to the number of new jobs created, to how much I earn in my savings account.
So, what is the expectation for interest rates? Using “forward curves” we can get a picture of the “pros” expectations for interest rates based on futures contracts, market swap rates, and current outstanding Treasury instruments. These indicate “the market” expects the 1-month rate to drop from 4.32% to 3.85% by the end of 2025. This rate is significant because it affects a lot of consumer and business credit and investments, like credit cards, lines of credit, and money market funds.
The 10-year rate is expected to increase from 4.54% to 4.62%. This rate is also significant because it is the most common rate our government borrows at and is closely correlated to mortgage rates. So, for those of you waiting for lower mortgage rates, the market is not expecting them in 2025. With that said, even though these expectations are based on actual transactions by the most knowledgeable money managers in the world, their future expectations are almost always wrong as well.
I can tell you at First Federal, we do not try to predict interest rates. We manage our balance sheet to different interest rate scenarios. I would encourage you to do the same—not put too much certainty into any interest rate forecast you read but instead think in probabilities of different interest rate scenarios.
Best wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2025. As always, thank you for your relationship with First Federal. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to assist you with your financial well-being.
COMMITMENT TO Community
SouthCentral
Chad Biggs | Red Sky
Building a Stronger Community:
South Central Community Action Partnership
Unsure where your next meal will come from. Lying awake at night worried about making rent. Watching your children shiver after the heat was shut off in the middle of winter. These are real challenges that many Magic Valley families face—and where South Central Community Action Partnership (SCCAP) steps in to help, offering not just immediate assistance but hope and a path forward.
“We are a nonprofit organization that helps economically disadvantaged individuals and families in collaboration with community partners throughout our eight surrounding counties,” explains Angie Carter, Chief Executive Officer at SCCAP. For Carter, the mission is personal. “I have personally been in situations where it has been difficult to make ends meet, I appreciated the bridge to self-sufficiency and am passionate about helping others do the same.”
enables income-qualifying individuals or families to build their own homes, while their Food Assistance Program provides vital nutrition support through distribution of food boxes to eligible households.
The Weatherization program helps families reduce energy costs by improving home energy efficiency tailored to each home. Their Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides one-time per season support to eligible individuals and families struggling with heating costs.
SouthCentral
Community Partnership in Action
Five Programs, One Mission
SCCAP operates five distinct programs to serve community needs. Their Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program helps low-income individuals and families by reviewing their individual needs and resources and working to reduce barriers by using several different programs including housing or rent assistance, budgeting and family development. The Self-Help Housing program
First Federal has been a longtime partner in SCCAP’s mission, supporting initiatives like their Empty Bowls fundraiser and providing grants that allow more resources to go directly to households in need. “We can do so much more for low income households with support from First Federal helping us out,” Carter notes. “It is important to build connections and collaborate with community members to provide many different resources and avenues to help those with an economic disadvantage.”
Getting Involved
The food program regularly welcomes volunteers to help assemble and distribute boxes, while the SelfHelp Housing program offers opportunities to assist on building sites. Community members can also support SCCAP’s mission through financial donations via their website.
For those seeking services, Carter encourages reaching out. “Please call our office nearest to you and schedule an appointment with our caseworkers. They can assess your situation and, even if we can’t help directly, we can connect you with our community partners who can.”
Through their comprehensive programs and collaborative approach, SCCAP continues building a stronger, more resilient Magic Valley community—one family at a time.
For more information, visit https://www.sccap-id.org.
BOARD MEMBER MUSINGS
Steve Westfall’s Legacy of Local Leadership
When Steve Westfall joined First Federal Bank’s board of directors, he thought it was simply an honorary position. Instead, it would be a partnership that would transform both Steve and First Fed alike over decades, tremendously benefiting Idaho’s only mutual bank and the communities it serves.
“It’s unbelievably powerful to think that you have influence over the direction of almost 300 employees and all these various communities,” reflects Westfall, who served as the board representative from the Burley-Rupert area.
A lifelong resident of Burley, Westfall followed in his father’s footsteps as a CPA. After graduating from college, he returned home to join his father’s accounting practice, where he continues to serve many of the same clients he’s worked with for more than three decades.
As chair of First Fed’s audit committee, Westfall’s CPA expertise proved invaluable to the bank. “Being on the board and being a CPA is definitely hand in glove,” he explains. This synergy between his professional practice and board service enhanced his ability to serve both the bank and his clients.
A Thought Sparks Lasting Change
Steve’s proudest achievement came from what he calls “a random idea” - establishing the First Federal Foundation. When the bank received funds from an investment, Westfall proposed creating a charitable foundation to support local organizations. The board embraced the concept
enthusiastically, and today the Foundation provides grants to nonprofits throughout the Magic Valley and Treasure Valley.
“It’s a wonderful thing to see what happens,” says Westfall, becoming emotional when discussing the Foundation’s impact. The organization maintains two grant cycles annually, carefully reviewing applications to support initiatives that strengthen local communities.
Small Towns Need Big Leaders
Westfall’s commitment to community service extends far beyond First Fed. His extensive leadership roles have included serving as Chamber of Commerce president, Cassia Hospital board chairman and director, and Idaho Youth Ranch director. In smaller communities like Burley, he believes leadership is both an obligation and an opportunity.
“In a small town, not everybody steps up. And really, you need leadership,” he explains.
As he reflects on his board tenure, Westfall emphasizes the importance of maintaining First Fed’s unique culture and focus. “Everything we do is for the customers and the depositors of the bank,” he notes. “Our mission is to enhance the well-being of our customers. I can’t imagine a better thing for a business to be concerned with.”
His message to future generations focuses on active community engagement. “It seems like people these days don’t get involved. There are so many distractions,” he observes. “People need to be involved and active with other people, no matter what that is. It can be in business, it can be charity work or volunteer work, but I would just hope everyone gets involved.”
Though retiring from the board, Westfall plans to continue his accounting practice while watching First Fed’s continued growth with interest.
“I could not have had a better experience than being on the board of First Federal. It feels like a little bit of a part of me. I love our mission. I love that we take care of our communities. I love that we’re concerned with the well-being of our customers and our employees.”
Chad Biggs | Red Sky
FIRST FED :
Sharing Success Stories and Inspiring Insights
Chad Biggs | Red Sky
Art Meets Heart at Perrine Man Press
In a world of mass-produced apparel, Perrine Man Press stands apart with its distinct approach: every design begins in Kenji Paulson’s sketchbook. Her hand-drawn artistry, combined with her husband Cory’s business approach, has created more than just a clothing brand— Perrine Man is a fundamental part of the Twin Falls community.
“Everything really is local, hand drawn, hand printed in house,” explains Cory Paulson, who founded the company with Kenji in 2017. “The more you look at our designs, the more you see.” He points to their signature Perrine Man logo as an example, where careful observers will notice the Perrine Bridge hidden in the mustache and the Snake River Canyon woven into the beard.
A Different Path to Growth
When the Paulsons started their business, they took an unconventional approach. Rather than seeking significant startup capital, they began at home, building slowly and deliberately. “We thought if we start this in our garage and build rather than just start with leverage, maybe we could keep costs down and then be able to be who we’re called to be without being chained,” Cory reflects.
This measured approach allowed them to stay true to their vision: creating quality apparel people actually want to wear. “We don’t want to just pump out stuff,” Cory emphasizes. “We want you to actually love the thing you get and wear it.” It’s this attention to quality and authenticity that has helped build their loyal customer base.
Values-Driven Success
At Perrine Man Press, success isn’t just measured in sales. The company’s core value of “Made for More” shapes every interaction, starting with their own team. “Cool people make it all work,” Cory says. “You can have all the business savvy and vision, but cool people make it all work.”
This philosophy extends to their customer interactions. Each person who enters their shop receives a special “Made for More” sticker—a reminder of their inherent value. “We want to share with each person that you really are incredibly valuable,” Cory explains.
The impact of this approach became clear after a difficult customer interaction where Cory shared this value to try and turn a conversation around and failed … at least initially. Weeks later the customer returned to apologize and share how the “Made for More” message had touched him during a challenging time. He encouraged them to embrace it and share it more.
“This experience really encouraged us to intentionally and vocally love on each person and shine some light through speaking the truth more boldly,” notes Cory. “Rather than waiting for the right moment, we want to graciously create that moment and remind people their value is one of the few free God-given gifts of life.”
Community Banking Partnership
The Paulsons’ relationship with First Federal Bank mirrors their approach to business—it’s built on personal connections and shared values. “The reason we chose First Fed is because of the people,” Cory says. His journey with the bank began with personal accounts and home loans, naturally evolving into a business relationship.
For a business that started with limited experience in the financial world, First Fed’s willingness to answer questions and provide guidance proved invaluable. “I did go in and ask question after question after question,
probably way too many, and they’re always willing to answer,” Cory recalls.
Looking Forward
As Perrine Man Press continues to grow, the Paulsons remain committed to their founding principles. “We never want to lose some of the special parts that we already have,” Cory emphasizes. Their focus remains on creating quality products while fostering a culture of value and appreciation in their community.
With their dedicated team, artistic vision, and commitment to serving others, Perrine Man Press continues to prove that a local business can do more than just sell products—it can help build a stronger, more connected community, one design at a time. Through their unique blend of artistry, authenticity, and purpose, they’re showing how a small business can make a lasting impact on the hearts and lives of those around them.
Learn more about Perrine Man Press at https://www.perrinemanpress.com/
BANKER BI FEATURING
Shane Jenkins
CHIEF CREDIT OFFICER
Chad Biggs | Red Sky
Credit, Community, and Connection A Banker’s Philosophy
“Credit can be a great tool when used correctly, but can be disastrous if you overuse it,” explains Shane Jenkins, Chief Credit Officer at First Federal Bank.
Credit is more than just borrowing money - it’s the foundation of financial growth and opportunity. When used wisely, credit becomes a powerful tool that helps businesses expand, families purchase homes, and individuals achieve their dreams. But like any tool, its value depends on how well you understand and use it.
For Shane, who grew up in Idaho Falls and graduated from Idaho State University with a finance degree, banking has always been about helping fellow Idahoans succeed. He has helped countless customers navigate the complexities of credit and lending across his 35 years of banking experience in Southern Idaho, including 15 years at First Fed and the past seven as its Chief Credit Officer.
“You want to make sure you’re using credit for the right purpose,” Shane emphasizes. “The key is matching the repayment to the benefit you’re getting from those investments.”
Because credit is such an integral part of banking, Shane is both responsible for the bank maintaining good standing by ensuring First Fed maintains high-quality loans and abiding by complex regulations while also helping customers make informed decisions.
“The benefit of having a relationship with one of our loan officers is that they can guide you through your financials and help you understand the risks of borrowing money. You may have great intentions, but there are always risks involved, and our bankers are here to help point those out.”
How Local Decision-Making Supports Business Success
“All the decisions are made here locally,” Shane explains. “We understand the economies of Southern Idaho and what drives them. You know your money is being reinvested in the communities where you live and bank.”
This guidance is particularly valuable for small businesses seeking their first loan. “Many small businesses fail because they have a great idea but don’t plan enough,” Shane notes. He points to valuable local resources like the College of Southern Idaho’s Small Business Development Center, which helps entrepreneurs prepare financial projections and complete business plans with experts who have done the same.
Building Relationships That Last
“Relationships are important to both the bank and the customer,” Shane reflects. “When we have history with you, we can use that history to your benefit. If you’ve consistently repaid your loans and done exactly what you said you would do, that track record works in your favor because of your long-term relationship with us.”
For Shane, banking is ultimately about helping people succeed. “My favorite part of the job is working with people in the community. We’re part of the community -- we’re just here to help our neighbors and friends succeed. When you understand credit and use it wisely, it becomes a powerful tool for building the future you want.”
Whether you’re a business owner looking to expand, a family planning to buy a home, or an individual working to build your financial future, First Fed can help you make the most of your credit’s potential.
EnhancingYOUR WELL-BEING
Compelling Thoughts and Inspiration to Help You
Rob Perez | Guest Columnist
“To enhance the financial well-being of our customers.” This eight-word phrase is the core of First Federal Bank’s mission statement. Well, it’s actually nine words if you ignore the hyphen between “well” and “being.” However, as I reflect on the many company mission statements I’ve read over the years, it’s the hyphen - that small dash - that makes all the difference. It’s what sets First Fed apart from the rest.
You might wonder: why would one hyphenated word make such a difference? The answer lies in the very nature of a hyphenated term, which signifies that two conditions are present simultaneously. In this case, wellness coexists with the state of being. In simpler terms, it means being content or at peace with who you are right now, a feeling that nothing is lacking.
When applied to one’s financial situation, well-being means having the intrinsic sense that one is on the right path toward financial security. And financial well-being has a direct correlation to one’s physical and mental well-being. Experts indicate that a lack of financial wellbeing doubles the chance of poor overall health and is four times more likely to result in a health condition of some sort.
Whether it’s work, family, health, or finances, achieving overall well-being can be challenging. Add the constant distractions of technology—endless emails, social media posts, screen pop-ups, and text messages—and it’s no wonder we feel more like “human doings” than human beings. So, when First Fed states that its mission is to help us achieve financial well-being, there’s something reassuring, welcoming, and even life-changing in those words.
But delivering on this mission is no easy task. It requires highly skilled bankers and trusted advisors, collaboration across disciplines, a shared culture of excellence and service, and the right financial tools to assess your business or personal financial situation. Only then can First Fed deliver on its mission to provide you with the sense of well-being that comes from knowing your financial life is in order.
As a bank customer and someone fortunate to know First Fed’s board of directors, executives, and bankers, I can attest to First Fed’s bank-wide commitment to helping its customers achieve financial well-being. That means ensuring you have the right bankers, tools and resources required to achieve financial well-being.
So, if a bank that prioritizes your financial well-being –which contributes to your overall well-being – resonates with you, then First Fed is the perfect choice.
After all, First Fed is the only bank I know of that makes your “well-being” its mission.
About Rob Perez:
Rob began his banking career in 1979 at Idaho First National Bank, which eventually became U.S. Bank. At the end of his time at U.S. Bank, he managed the Intermountain Division of Commercial Real Estate, which had over a billion dollars in assets and offices in Boise, Spokane, Reno, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City. Rob left U.S. Bank to found Western Capital Corporation, a boutique business bank now known as Northwest Bank, and to serve as its Chief Executive Officer. During Rob’s tenure, the bank expanded to offices in Portland and Seattle. Rob left Northwest Bank to become the Idaho Regional President for Bank of the Cascades, which was later acquired by First Interstate Bank. Since retiring in 2019, Rob has expanded his real estate investment practice, as well as consulted for several businesses including First Federal Bank.
FIRST FED EXPANDS COMMUNITY BANKING FOOTPRINT WITH NEW NAMPA BRANCH
Chad Biggs | Red Sky
When First Federal Bank chose downtown Nampa for its newest location, the decision went beyond just adding another pin to the map. The bank saw an opportunity to serve a community that mirrors the values and character that have defined First Fed for over a century.
“Twin Falls and Nampa have a lot of the same type of soul,” explains Jess Flynn, First Federal Bank director and board member representing the Treasure Valley. “Both communities are proud of their agricultural roots while embracing growth from manufacturers, food producers, and technology companies. Nampa has become a gateway to Idaho’s wine country and agricultural communities, while also attracting families and businesses who are proud to call it home.”
The new branch, located in the heart of downtown Nampa, represents First Fed’s first location in Canyon County and reflects the bank’s strategic approach
to growth in the Treasure Valley. Rather than simply following population trends, First Fed carefully considers how its community banking model can best serve emerging needs.
Relationships and Shared Values
“We have a lot of employees in the Treasure Valley who are from the Nampa area or Canyon County,” notes Jason Meyerhoeffer, President and CEO of First Federal Bank. “It was an opportunity for us to take advantage of those relationships. As a mutual bank, our interests are really well aligned with our customers, because we don’t have the challenges of trying to balance interests between shareholders and customers.”
The branch’s location was chosen with careful consideration for both accessibility and community connection. “If you take a pin and drop it on our new Nampa location and go out seven miles in a big circle, we cover all of Nampa,” explains Jim Reames, Senior Vice President and Treasure Valley Market President. “Logistically, it
helps our bankers, officers, and clients. It gives them the opportunity to have a bank they trust close by and centered in the valley.”
“Frankly, this office is here because the Nampa community is more like Twin Falls,” Reames adds. “People in Nampa want a relationship with somebody. They want to stop by and have a cup of coffee with their banker, or just visit. When customers come to First Fed, they’re not just doing a transaction - they’re visiting friends. That’s who they are, that’s who we are, and that’s what makes this location special.”
Designed for the Community
While the branch offers full banking services, its design reflects First Fed’s commitment to everyone it serves. “This doesn’t feel like a standard bank,” explains Reames. “We’ve built a space for our community. If customers want to use our large conference room for a workshop, or if local groups need a meeting space, we have that available.”
The expansion comes at a time of significant growth for First Fed in the Treasure Valley. In just five years, the bank has grown to manage $100 million in deposits and nearly $400 million in loans in the region. While business banking and mortgage services are key focus areas for the new branch, the core mission remains serving all community members.
“Nampa has an amazing downtown core that has this great history and bones,” Flynn notes. “First Federal is taking on being right in the heart of downtown with a nod towards the history of that place, marked by a beautiful neon sign crafted by our longtime customer Lytle Signs (note: previously profiled in The Association). The location offers easy access for the wide variety of businesses and homeowners who call Nampa home.”
As First Fed continues to expand its presence in the Treasure Valley, its focus remains on enhancing the well-being of its customers and communities. This commitment to community banking, combined with local expertise and relationships, positions First Fed to serve Nampa’s growing needs with the personal touch the customers and community expects.
SEASONS Scenic
Highlighting Businesses and Individuals who Contribute to the Grandeur of the Gem State
Chad Biggs | Red Sky
From Ice Cream to Idaho Institution: Frederickson’s Candy
When seven-year-old Angie Cameron started helping at her grandfather’s candy shop, putting away treats and learning the family trade, she didn’t know she was beginning a lifelong journey. Today, as owner of Frederickson’s Candy in Twin Falls, she carries forward a legacy that began in 1936.
“My grandpa came and opened an ice cream store for a gentleman from Utah,” Cameron explains. “A year later, the gentleman wanted to close it, so he sold the ice cream store to my grandpa in 1937.” It was her great-grandfather who suggested adding chocolates during winter months to keep the business going yearround -- a decision that would shape the shop’s future.
The business grew to include a restaurant and craft store alongside the candy and ice cream operations before settling into its current spot in 1952. Through all the expansions, chocolate remained at the heart of Frederickson’s identity.
Crafting Traditions
Many of the recipes that delight customers today have deep roots. “My grandpa got recipes from family and other shop owners who became friends over the years,” Cameron shares. “He came up with some on his own and tweaked others to make them his own.” While maintaining these traditional favorites, Cameron has carefully introduced new creations, like salted caramel and chocolate-dipped giant marshmallows, that have earned their place in the lineup.
For Cameron, taking over the family business felt natural. “As a teenager, you just get to make everything,” she recalls. “My grandpa would say, ‘Oh, you’re doing good at this. Here, do this one,’ and it just felt like I had a knack for it. It was just easy for me.”
Community at the Core
Like her grandfather, Cameron sees Frederickson’s as more than just a business. “When my grandpa started the shop, he started it for community,” she emphasizes. “He served the community with his friendly face but always tried to keep prices low. It wasn’t about the dollar, it was about the people.”
This community focus aligns perfectly with First Federal Bank, which has been Frederickson’s banking partner for generations. “My grandpa changed to First Federal when they started here — I think he liked the thought of the local bank,” Cameron notes. The relationship extends beyond transactions — every visit brings a friendly face and expert assistance. The partnership has grown to include community events, with Frederickson’s participating in activities like First Federal’s Rock Paper Scissors tournament.
Seasonal Celebrations
The shop’s rhythm follows Twin Falls’ seasons and celebrations, with signature items that customers eagerly anticipate throughout the year. “We keep pretty much the same candies around all year long,” Cameron explains. “Our customers look forward to our caramel hearts, our eggs, our trees and stars.”
Beyond making treats, Frederickson’s actively participates in community initiatives and fundraisers. “We try to serve our community through fundraisers - a lot of people will come in asking us to help, whether it’s donations or even hanging flyers. We’re always happy to do any of that.”
The shop’s impact on Twin Falls extends through generations of families. Over the years, the community has become like family to Frederickson’s, carrying forward the same spirit that guided Cameron’s grandfather when he first opened the doors. Just as he prioritized people over profits, today’s customers make Frederickson’s treats an essential part of their celebrations, passing these sweet traditions from one generation to the next.
For Cameron, this sense of community is what makes owning a candy shop special. “Probably my favorite part is community,” she reflects. “Lots of people walk in here with a smile on their face excited to have chocolate. You can’t not love that.”
Learn more at https://fredericksonscandy.com/
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHT: NEW MONEY MARKET ACCOUNT
Michael D. Traveller | First Federal Bank Chief Financial Officer
The Money Market Account (MMA) was born in the 1970s and offered consumers a way to earn higher returns while maintaining liquidity. The Money Market Demand Account (MMDA), a variation of the original MMA, was created in response to regulatory changes affecting interest rates and the banking system.
In 1982, banks were allowed to offer interest-bearing checking accounts, which led to the formalization of the MMDA product that we know today.
The main features of a MMDA are:
Liquidity. Easy access to your money with some restrictions, generally including up to six withdrawals per month, without incurring fees. Withdrawals can be made via electronic banking, in person, by writing a check, or using a debit card.
Higher Interest Rates. MMDAs generally have higher interest rates than regular savings accounts. That’s what makes them attractive for people who are looking to earn more on their deposits, while maintaining liquidity. Rates are variable and tend to fluctuate based on market conditions. MMDA interest rates may include
tiers; so, the more you have on deposit, the higher the interest rate you earn on your deposits.
Minimum Balance Requirements. Most MMDAs require a higher minimum balance to open and maintain the account. This higher minimum balance could range between a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
First Federal’s MMDA is a great option for those who want to earn higher returns on their money and have access to their money anytime.
See your favorite Personal Banker to discuss interest rate tiers and account service fees.
Full account requirements and details can be found at BankFirstFed.com/Money-Market
OUR PRODUCTS & SERVICES APPROACH
Brenda K. Hughes | First Federal Bank Chief Operating Officer
At First Federal Bank, we understand that financial security and peace of mind are essential to living your best life. For over a century, we’ve proudly partnered with individuals, families, and businesses to help them achieve their goals and build brighter futures.
Your Trusted Financial Partner
We know that your financial journey is unique. That’s why we’re here to provide personalized solutions that meet your needs, whether you’re saving for your first home, growing your business, or planning for retirement. Our range of products, from flexible checking accounts to competitive business, mortgage, and consumer loans, are designed with you in mind.
As a community-focused bank, we’re deeply invested in the customers we serve. When you succeed, our community thrives—and that’s what drives us.
Empowering You with Modern Tools
We know life moves fast, and convenience matters. That’s why we’ve developed innovative online and mobile banking
tools that make managing your finances easy and secure. Whether it’s paying bills, monitoring your spending, or accessing accounts on the go, we’re here to keep you connected to your money—anytime, anywhere.
Insurance Made Simple with Covered
We’re also proud to work alongside Covered Insurance to help you protect what matters most. Their platform makes it simple to find the right coverage, from home and auto to renters and life insurance. With their intuitive comparison tools and customer-focused team, you’ll feel confident knowing you’re getting the best value and protection for your needs. You can access Covered Insurance at BankFirstFed.com or in your online banking under My Toolkit, and selecting Insurance.
Let’s Build Your Future Together
At First Federal Bank, your success is our priority. Whether you’re managing your finances or securing insurance, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s create a brighter, more secure future together.
BE SCAM SMART
Spotting Scams by Knowing Who is Talking to You
Greggory Miller | First Federal Bank Security Officer
The digital world is a powerful way to connect with friends, family, and even celebrities. Unfortunately, it is also a preferred tool for scammers. Here are some common scams we’ve seen affecting our customers:
Fake Social Media Personas – Scammers create fraudulent social media profiles that closely resemble those of real influencers. If someone claims to be the “real” influencer but has a slightly different handle, and a newer account than the account that regularly posts, it’s a red flag.
Email Account Takeover – Some sophisticated scams begin with phishing attacks that compromise a victim’s email account. Once scammers gain email access, they can change account permissions, modify signers, transfer money, or send fraudulent payment requests while impersonating a legitimate business. Verifying any of these actions, prior to making the change, by contacting the individual in a way other than email can prevent significant losses.
Spoofed Phone Numbers – Scammers can manipulate caller ID to appear as if they are calling from a trusted number. They may pose as a long-lost relative, an old friend, a bank employee, or even a government official. The scammer often convinces them to send money—often in cryptocurrency.
Some Simple Ways to Avoid Falling Victim to Scams in the Digital Age
Be Wary of Emotional Manipulation – Scammers often try to provoke strong emotions, such as fear, excitement, or urgency, to cloud your judgment. If someone contacting you triggers a heightened emotional response, pause and ask yourself why. If they insist you must take immediate action, be especially cautious.
Verify Unexpected Contacts – If you receive an unsolicited message or call from a financial institution or government agency, do not engage. Instead, politely end the conversation and contact the organization directly using the official contact information from their website.
Keep a Realistic Perspective – Be mindful of who you are and where you are in life. Sure, Scarlett Johansson might one day leave the lights and glamour of Hollywood, but she’s probably not reaching out to a middle-aged man living in the Magic Valley. And as much as the tabloids love a good romance story, it’s highly unlikely that Johnny Depp is suddenly looking for love with someone who is a decade his senior.
Chewy Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies
Provided by Idahome Sweets
INGREDIENTS
y 1 cup butter, room temp
y 1 ¼ cup light brown sugar
y ½ cup sugar
y 2 eggs, room temp
y 2 tsp vanilla
y 2 cups mini chocolate chips
y 3 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
y 1 tsp cornstarch
y 1 tsp baking powder
y 1 tsp baking soda
y ½ tsp salt
1) Cream wet ingredients together in stand mixer until light and fluffy.
2) Fold in dry ingredients until well combined.
3) Add in mini chocolate chips.
4) Portion out 1 tablespoon balls and place on cookie sheet. Do not overcrowd your cookies.
5) Chill in fridge 30 minutes prior to baking.
6) Bake on 375°F for 8-9 minutes and cool on cookie sheet.
7) Enjoy!
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