Courier NEWS Vol 48 Num 13

The Courier

Ag Census Shows Idaho Lost 2,119 Farms

Press Release from Idaho Farm Bureau Federation

Idaho lost 2,119 farms, or 8.5 percent of its total farms, between 2017 and 2022, according to the 2022 Census of Agriculture.

Data from the 2022 ag census was released February 13th and it showed there were 22,877 farms and ranches in Idaho during the 2022 census year. That was down from 24,996 farms during the 2017 census year. The data shows there were 1.9 million farms and ranches in the United States in 2022. That was 7 percent, or 142,000, fewer farms than during 2017.

The Census of Agriculture is conducted every five years and is the only source of uniform, comprehensive and impartial agricultural data. It provides millions of potential data points on U.S. farming, down to the county level.

The 2022 census shows there was 11.55 million acres of total farmland – this includes crop and pasture land – in Idaho during the recent census year. That is a 1.2 percent, or 144,00-acre, drop from the 11.69 million acres of total farmland in the state in 2017.

Nationwide, the amount of total farmland in 2022 was 880 million acres, down 2.2 percent from 900 million acres in 2017.

While presenting highlights of the recent ag census during a livestream event Feb. 13, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said the loss of farms and farmland in the U.S. is concerning to him. “Survey after survey continues to show a decline in the number of farms and in farmland,” he said. “The amount of farm decline is significant. It’s particularly significant in this survey.”

To put the loss of 20 million acres of U.S. farmland in perspective, Vilsack pointed out that would equal the land mass of every New England state, with the exception of Connecticut.

Idaho Farm Bureau Federation President Bryan Searle, who farms in Shelley, said the loss of farmland is also of concern to Idaho’s agricultural industry and shows why it is important for IFBF and other farm organizations to continue to find ways to try to slow the rate of farmland loss in the state.

According to a University of Idaho study released this year, agriculture is directly and indirectly responsible for 13 percent of Idaho’s total gross state product, one in every 9 jobs and 17 percent of the state’s total economic output.

“It’s heart-wrenching to learn we lost more than 2,000 farms and 144,000 acres of farmland,” he said. “As Idaho Farm Bureau joins other organizations in trying to find a way to slow the loss of the state’s precious farm ground, this latest ag census data serves as sort of a wake-up call on the importance of those efforts.”

The Census of Agriculture was first conducted in 1840 and its data is...

continued on page 7...

Volunteers Needed at the Office on the Aging

Currently, there about 250 assisted living facilities and 80 skilled nursing facilities in Idaho. They provide a wide range of services from independent living (with access to assistance when needed) to full 24 hours a day healthcare.

Over the last twenty years, the number of people in Idaho who are 65 years and over grew from 150,000 to over 330,000. This increase in our older population is putting pressure on the facilities that care for those who need extra help. This extra pressure can also give rise to problems between residents and the facilities.

To help minimise these problems, the CSI Office on Aging provides a volunteer advocacy program for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. This Ombudsman Program is the eyes, ears and voice for those individuals who may not be able or willing to advocate for themselves.

The primary goals of this program are to:

· Advocate for the rights of resident

· Investigate complaints

· Provide consultation

· Visit each facility a minimum of once a quarter

· Provide education to residents, family and the community

This program currently is looking for volunteers to assist in this vital work. Volunteers are given an intensive training that includes what to look for when visiting facilities, communication skills, along with rules and regulations for nursing homes and assisted living centers.

If you are interested in improving the quality of life for these residents, call Marilyn Shiroma, Regional Ombudsman or Pamela Pehrson, Assistant Ombudsman at 208-736-2122 or 800574-8656, or send a message to: mshiroma@csi.edu.

If you need to file a complaint with an Ombudsman, call 1-208-736-2122, or come to the Office on Aging at the County West Building (650 Addison Ave W) in Twin Falls, Idaho.

Easter Services

Saving Grace Fellowship in Shoshone (203 West C. St.) will have an open house on Good Friday, March 29th, at 6:00 p.m. Join them for a meal, activities for the kids, and a message from God's Word. Pastor Casey Knudson and his wife Teja look forward to meeting you and your family.

Easter Sunrise Service will once again be held at the Waugh Residence on Easter morning, March 31, 2024 beginning at 6:30 am. The Waugh's (located at 2080 S 1800 E in Gooding - signs will be posted to help you get there) are hosting Easter Sunrise Service on Easter Morning. Feel free to bring a lawn chair. Music, short message and fellowship are shared by all who attend. Cinnamon rolls and hot beverages are provided. For more information, please contact Steve or Patty Waugh (Steve - 208/539-4689 and Patty - 208/539-4378). All are welcome.

Fairfield Community Church will hold a Good Friday service on March 29th at 7 p.m. On Easter Sunday the 31st they will have Sunrise Service at the Intermountain Christian camp at 7 a.m. with breakfast following the service. Regular Easter Service will be 10:00 a.m. at the church. Please invite your family and friends!

Egg Hunts

Several of our communities are hosting Easter Egg Hunts this Saturday, March 30th, at 10:00 a.m.

BLISS - In the Upper City Park. The Bliss Rural Fire Department will have over 1400 eggs along with one Golden Egg. Four age groups: 0-3, 4-6, 7-9 & 10-12.

WENDELL - McGinnis Park.

HAGERMAN - In the Hagerman City Park. The Hagerman Fire District will have 4000 eggs with four age groups: 0-3, 4-6, 7-9 & 10-12.

LINCOLN COUNTY will host Egg Hunts in all three cities on March 30th: Shoshone 10 a.m. at the City Park; Richfield 10 a.m. at the Richfield City Park; and Dietrich at 12:30 p.m. at the Dietrich School.

Primary Election: May 21, 2024

While the Presidential election is constantly in the news, there are several local elections that are just as important. Here are the contested races.

In Camas County, the newly appointed sheriff, Travis Martin, will be facing two opponents: Andrew Marolf and John Cronquist.

Incumbent, Galen Colter, will be running against Delbert McMurdo for District 1 Commissioner.

In Lincoln County, the county sheriff, René King is being challenged by Ernie Cahala. District 1 Commissioner, Joann Rutler, is not running for her current seat and two individuals are vying for her position: Tim Ridinger (R) and Jann Thomsen (I) (this race will be decided in the November election). There is also a race for the Republican Precinct Committeeman #6 (Dietrich) between Valerie Varadi and Scott Denning.

Lincoln County will also be voting on three Supplemental Levies: School District #316 (Richfield) is asking for $180,000 for two years; Joint School District #312 (Lincoln & Jerome) is asking for $300,000 for two years; and the Shoshone City & Rural Fire District is asking for $83,528 for two years.

In Gooding County, Vern Eames and Tim Pereira are competing for District 1 Commissioner, which is currently held by Susan Bolton who is retiring. There are several contested races for Republican Precinct Committeemen:

Precinct 3 (Gooding Rural) - J T Reed and Denise Gill

Precinct 4 (Wendell City) - Don Bunn and Tyler Tvrdy

Precinct 5 (Wendell Rural) - Wayne Chandler and Gene Wisniewski

Precinct 6 (Bliss) - Mike Elliott and Johnny Smith

Precinct 7 (Hagerman) - Frank J. Knight and Anthony Driever

In Legislative District 24, all of our representatives are facing challengers.

State Representative A: Clint Hostetler is running against Chenele Dixon

State Representative B: Jeff Faulkner is running against Steve Miller

State Senator: Alex Caval is running against Glenneda Zuiderveld

(Edward A Easterling is running as a Democrat for State Senator)

In Legislative District 26, Ned Burns (D) will face either Kally Schiffler or Mike Pohanka (both Republicans) this November for State Representative A. State Representative B, Jack Nelsen, is being challenged again by Lyle Johnstone for the Republican nomination to that seat. And, State Senator, Ron Taylor (D) will be facing Kala Tate (I) and Laurie Lickley (R) in November.

Zions Bank - Paint-A-Thon Service Project

Zions Bank is inviting the public to nominate homes for its employees to spruce up with a fresh coat of exterior paint during its annual Paint-a-Thon service project.

Entering its 32nd year, Paint-a-Thon benefits low-income elderly, disabled and veteran residents in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Typically, homes are referred to Zions Bank by city and state housing agencies, aging services, community organizations and local churches. This year, the public is invited to nominate up to half of the 35 homes employees plan to scrape, paint and landscape.

To qualify for consideration, homeowners must meet federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) income guidelines, detailed on Zions Bank’s website, which includes the link to the nomination form. Questions may be directed to ZionsBankEvents@zionsbank.com and nominations are due by April 15.

In addition to painting, Zions employees will provide yard clean-up, pruning, mowing, planting and minor repairs as needed by homeowners. The cost for all paint and supplies is contributed by Zions Bank.

Launched in 1991, Zions Bank’s Paint-a-Thon began as a volunteer project for Zions Bank employees who have painted nearly 1,300 homes throughout Idaho and Utah.

Cup of Tee by Tee Hurd

Once again, I stopped at a burger joint and specifically ordered a cheeseburger with ketchup on one bun and mustard on the other bun, with the addition of a tomatoe. That's all I wanted and how I wanted it.

You all probably get tired of me writing about how I never get these simple instructions executed. The sandwich I received came with one bun half ketchup and half mustard. The other bun was dry. Needless to say, I was frustrated. I don't believe the younger folks or the mass production line don't allow for individual taste of ingredients. When I was younger, we ate items because we liked to taste our food. It is like ordering a strawberry milkshake because you like the taste and it comes back pumpkin. Plenty of room for the taste test???

Many foods of the 70s, meaning 1970s, were ate because of necessity or for taste; saying the taste was the biggest reason. Following are some foods of the 70s people ate and they were mostly for the taste.

Canned Spinach was one food people loved. The spinach looked like boiled down dandelions. As for this boy, I had to eat mostly because mom made us, but I never did like the taste

Liver & Onions were another family meal course. I speculate more fresh meat markets were available it get it on the table. You definitely like this for the taste

Creamed vegetables were on every table. I guess it was a way the kids ate their greens. This taste was more appealing than the straight

vegetables.

Cheese Logs and Cheese Balls were a rage at every social gathering. People loved the unique taste of multiple cheeses, nuts, and fruits.

And of course... with every cheese ball epidemic there was the cheese fondue. Everything had to be dipped into the liquid cheese. Chocolate fondue was a close follower, after all, who doesn't love chocolate?

Ambrosia salad was at every restaurant and family gathering. It was the mix of whipped cream, home canned fruits (or store bought canned fruit) and nuts.

Jello was a 70s hero. Everything was made with jello: pie fillings, salads, vegetables, and meats such as Spam.

Speaking of Spam, it was a family stable in the 70s. It was in everything. Personally, I give Spam two thumbs down.

Fresh Grapefruit was served like candy and ate like candy. One cut in half would serve two, especially if a little sugar was on the table.

Everything was cooked with pineapple: meats, casseroles, deserts, and of course... good ol' pizza. I think pineapple grew in popularity because of the tourism movement to the state of Hawaii.

Canned Chinese food was a big hit. It was a cheap meal for two sharing together.

Mincemeat pie was a favorite whether store bought or homemade. And of course, butterscotch was a leading taste of the 70s.

Taste was important in the 70s, similar to the way I want to taste my hamburgers!

This is my “Cup of Tee” flavor restricted.

All Machine Shop Services

Competitive Part Prices

All Makes & Models ~ Domestic, Foreign

In Frame & Overhaul Kits

40 + Years Experience

934-4992 ~ 124 4th Avenue East, Gooding ~ 8 to 5 mon-fri

Senior Center Menus

All menus are subject to change without notice.

Shoshone Richfield

886–2369 (218 N Rail St. W) 487–2722 130 S Main Street

Lunch: $2 (2-9) $5.50 (10-59) $4 over 60 (suggested)

Thursday, Mar 28 (Rich) Tuna Salad S. w/Clam Chowder

Friday, Mar 29 (Sho) Chicken & Rice

Monday, April 1 (Rich) Taco Salad

Tuesday, April 2 (Sho) Sweet n'Sour Meatballs

Wed, April 3 (Sho) Tuna Salad S. w/ Potato Soup

Fairfield 764-2226 (129 Willow Avenue West)

Lunch: 60+ $5 (suggested) 11-59 $6 / 5-10 $2 / under 5 free

Friday, Mar 22 Meatloaf & Mash Potato

Tuesday, April 2 Chicken Stir Fry w/ Rice

Wednesday, April 3 Sloppy Joes

Gooding 934-5504 (308 Senior Avenue)

Breakfast every First Saturday 7:30-9:30..... $6.00

Thursday, Mar 28 Meatloaf & Mash Potato

Monday, April 1

Tuesday, April 2 Come on in

Wednesday, April 3 Everyone is here!

Hagerman 837-6120 (140 East Lake Street)

Lunch is served every Monday, Wednesday & Friday.

Friday, Mar 29... Baked Ham

Monday, April 1... Salisbury Steak

Wednesday, April 3... Sloppy Joes

Wendell 536-9951 (380 East 1st Street)

Lunch is served every Monday & Friday at Noon.

Friday, Mar 29... Ham & Scalloped Potatoes

Monday, April 1... It will be GOOD!

This Week’s Sudoku Puzzle Answers

Puzzle #1 - Easy Puzzle #2 - Hard

obituaries

Margie May Routh

Margie May (Giles) Roath, 86, a resident of Twin Falls and formerly of Shoshone, passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at St. Luke's Medical Center in Twin Falls.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, March 21, 2024 from 10:00 am to 10:45 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints in Shoshone.

Funeral services were held on March 21, 2024, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Shoshone. Burial will follow at the Richfield Cemetery in Richfield.

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Demaray Funeral Service - Shoshone Chapel.

Belva Jane Houst

Belva Jane Houst passed away March 9, 2024. Jane was born January 1, 1955 in Gooding, Idaho, along with her sister, Dorothy, to Ferrell and Rose Clark. Jane grew up in Shoshone, ID and graduated from Shoshone High School.

Eventually she found herself in Bountiful, UT where she married Ray Anderson and had two children: Ashley and Micheal Anderson. After several years of marriage, they divorced, and Jane moved back to Idaho. She later married Hank Houst on January 1, 2001 and remained in Boise for several years. After the unfortunate passing of Hank, Jane moved back to Shoshone to be with her mother for the remaining years of both of their lives.

Jane always had a caring and kind heart and that continued to be expressed in her later career of home health care and fostering of cats. She was always committed to providing for the community through nonprofits and community clubs like A Road To Home Animal Shelter, the Young Women’s group, and various senior center events. This, combined with her sweet personality, lent itself to many thriving communities.

She was also equally as passionate about her interests, one of which was buttons. She was loved and celebrated in the button community and would meet regularly with the local button club, winning awards for displays, and even becoming president for a time. Looking at the frames of button displays lining the walls of her home you could tell she was an expert. She often cycled through foster cats and plucked any strays she could find off the streets and wrapped them in warm blankets. She also grew her own collection of house cats in the process. She loved every single one like her own children.

She was filled with unconditional love and care for all those around her and always wanted nothing more than to ensure all life she came across, animal and person, was the best she could make it. She was preceded in death by father, Ferrell Clark; mother, Rose Lueders; sister, Dorothy Mattison; husband, Hank Houst; and son, Micheal Anderson.

She is survived by her daughter, Ashley Anderson; and granddaughter, Luka Vera. She will be missed by all.

A Celebration of Jane’s Life was held on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Shoshone Ward, Shoshone, Idaho.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Jane’s memorial webpage at www.farnsworthmortuary.com.

David Martin Bartlett

David Martin Bartlett, 55, a resident of Twin Falls, died March 12, 2024, at St. Luke's Magic Valley Medical Center.

David was born on September 24, 1968, in the city of Twin Falls, Idaho, the son of Marvin Oscar Bartlett and Marilyn Joan Bartlett.

David was able to take anything and build, rebuild, fabricate, or refabricate it. David enjoyed to camp and shoot. David took trips on his motorcycle to explore the area and learn the history. He had a love for his music. David was amused by small funny things that

Eugene Leroy Behunin

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Eugene "Gene" Leroy Behunin a beloved military veteran, revered builder, accomplished musician, and devoted family man. Gene passed away peacefully at the age of 87, leaving behind a rich tapestry of memories and an enduring legacy of love and dedication.

Born and raised in Gooding County, Idaho, Gene epitomized the values of honor, resilience, and community spirit. Serving his country with distinction, he bravely defended the freedoms we hold dear, leaving an indelible mark of courage on the hearts of many.

would have him laughing. David had the best laugh ever.

David is survived by: a daughter - Alexis; and by his brothers and sisters - Roy Bartlett (Brooksie) of Twin Falls, ID, John Bartlett (Christina) of Twin Falls, ID, Ron Geer (Luann) of Gooding, ID, Susan Bartlett of Long Beach, WA, Janet Bartlett of Ocean Park, WA, Kimberly Thorpe of Kodiak, AK, and many nieces and nephews.

David was preceded in death by: grandparents, father, mother, and two nephews - Joe and Evan.

Burial service was held at Wendell Cemetery on Monday, March 18, 2024.

Memorial donations can be made for Dave's grave marker and can be sent to: Demaray Funeral Service, 737 Main Street, Gooding, Idaho 83330.

In addition to his esteemed military service, Gene was widely respected for his remarkable talents as a general builder and carpenter. His skilled hands crafted homes, structures, and dreams, shaping the landscape of his community and leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship and excellence.

Gene married Donna Marie Christensen 26 June 1965 in Pocatello, Idaho. They moved to Gooding Idaho where they raised their 6 children on the Behunin family ranch.

In addition to his remarkable professional and community achievements, Gene cherished his time with family, engaging in a variety of outdoor activities that brought them together in joyous camaraderie. Whether it was boating on Anderson Ranch Reservoir in Pine, exploring snow-covered trails on snowmobiles above Pine and Featherville, Idaho, or traversing rugged landscapes on horseback, Gene reveled in the beauty of nature alongside his loved ones.

Their cherished cabin served as a sanctuary where countless memories were forged, laughter echoed through the walls, and bonds were strengthened. Gene's passion for the great outdoors extended to his personal pursuits of hunting and fishing, where he found solace and connection with the natural world.

Gene's commitment to community extended beyond his professional endeavors, as evidenced by his active involvement in the American Legion. He tirelessly dedicated his time and energy to supporting fellow veterans and their families,

Ronald Gillett, 83, a resident of Hagerman, passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024 at Chardonnay Assisted Living in Twin Falls. Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Demaray Funeral Service - Gooding Chapel.

Lynn Thomas Montgomery of Wendell, Idaho, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at the age of 96 years. Funeral service were held on Saturday, March 9, at the LDS Thousand Springs Ward in Buhl.

embodying the spirit of service and camaraderie.

Furthermore, Gene's love for building was not confined to his professional career but extended to meaningful projects with his three boys. Together, they embarked on countless endeavors, leaving behind a legacy of shared experiences, valuable lessons, and cherished memories.

Yet, it was Gene's passion for music that truly set his soul on fire. As a founding member of the renowned band, the Sundowners, his melodies captivated audiences far and wide, earning him a place of honor in the hearts of music lovers everywhere. His contributions to the local music scene will be remembered and cherished for generations to come.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gene found his greatest joy and fulfillment in his role as a devoted family man.

Survived by the LOVE OF HIS LIFE Donna of 59 years, 5 loving children, Terry (Vanessa), Kristine (Tim), Rodney and Brian, Ennice (Ron) as well as a legacy of 20 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchildren, he leaves behind a family bond that is as enduring as his spirit.

Gene's memory will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he may no longer walk among us, his music will continue to echo in our hearts, and his glowing smile will remind us of the beauty and joy he brought into our lives.

In honoring Gene's life and legacy, let us celebrate the profound impact he made on our lives and communities. May we carry forward his spirit of resilience, creativity, and love, ensuring that his memory lives on in our hearts forever.

Preceded in death by his father and mother; grandparents, sister - Lois; daughters - Kelli and Barbara (from a previous marriage); and a grandson.

Funeral services were held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Gooding on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. Burial with military honors followed at Elmwood Cemetery after the church service.

Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Demaray Funeral Service - Gooding Chapel. Condolences, memories and photos can be shared with the family by following the obituary link at www.demarayfuneralservice.com

Busy B’s Market

208-320-6878

at the Billingsley Creek Barn in Hagerman (1/2 mile north of Hagerman on Highway 30)

April is National Poetry Month!

Kick it off a bit early with another Free Range Poetry Night

Free Range Poetry Night

401 Camas Avenue West

208-764-2611

Medical & Dental Care

208-764-3312

Pharmacy

APPOINTMENT HOURS:

Medical:

Antiques, Collectables, Handmade items, Jewelry, and Books. Homemade Cakes, Pies, Fresh Eggs, and Bread. ~ Legal Notices ~ Legal

Monday & Friday 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Dental: Tuesday & Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Pharmacy: Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Dr. Levin, MD • Dean Rodemack, PA-C • Bryce Bennion, Pharm.D (Sliding Scale fees available)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

The requirements were met for an application for zoning amendments under Gooding County Zoning Ordinance No. 104, Chapter 8, Section 2 Amendments to Zoning Ordinance and Official Zoning Map. The written recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission was accepted without material change.

The Board of Gooding County Commissioners, having considered the recommendation, and the information presented in the public hearing held on September 19, 2023, approved the recommended rezone to Transitional-2 on the parcels described as:

Please see attached A through H. (attachments are available for review at the County Clerks office)

The property owner is Charmianne LeaVell.

EFFECTIVE DATE:

Gooding County Board of Commissioners approved the Official Zoning Map Amendment "C" of Ordinance No. 104 on the 25th day of March, 2024, and said amendment shall be in full force and effect upon publication.

Mark E. Bolduc, Chairman

Susan M. Bolton, Commissioner

Ronald Buhler, Commissioner

ATTEST: Denise M. Gill, County Clerk

The Hailey Public Library and the newly-formed Free Range Poetry Society will host their 2nd poetry night on Thursday, March 28, at 5:30 PM at Town Center West. The free event celebrates the power and importance of poetry and helps kick off Poetry Month in April. Free Range poets have permission to roam wherever the words take them and readers will include Florence Blanchard, Ted Dyer, Sue Bailey, John Fox, Susan Fierman, Les Shanahan, Andrea Pierceall and Cit Ananda.

“Oral poetry has been around for at least 7,000 years, starting in Mesopotamia where it was an important part of rituals and storytelling,” commented Kristin Fletcher, the library’s programs and engagement manager, “In 1996 the Academy of American Poets singled out April to recognize and celebrate poets and poetry as essential to human culture. It’s now the largest literary celebration in the world. HPL and Free-Range Poetry Society will celebrate, too, with a night of fine local poetry.”

Co-organizer Florence Blanchard commented, “Our valley has a long history of poetry readings, some by acclaimed Beat poets such as Allen Ginsberg and other readings by not-so-famous locals in bookstores and coffee shops. We had so much fun back in November with the first Free Range Poetry Night that we wanted to offer another one this spring.”

For more information about this and other talks, call 208-788-2036 or visit www.haileypubliclibrary.org

NOTICE OF MEAL PRICE INCREASE PUBLIC HEARING

The Richfield School District No. 316, Lincoln County, Idaho, has proposed to increase its student lunch price and adult breakfast price by an amount that is over 105% of the price charged last year (SY23/24).

The proposed increase for student lunch price is 8% above the price charged the previous year (SY23/24). Adult breakfast is 7% above the price charged the previous year (SY23/24).

The proposed increase for adult lunch is 5% above the price charged the previous year (SY23/24).This increase is not required to have a public hearing and is included in this notice for public informational purposes.

In compliance with I.C. 63-1311A, a public hearing will be held during the regular school board meeting on April 8, 2024 at 7:30 pm at the Richfield School, 555 North Tiger Drive, Richfield, Idaho, 83349. All community members are invited to attend the public hearing.

All students enrolled in Richfield School will continue to receive FREE breakfast each school day under the NSLP Free Provision 2 Breakfast Program.

This meal price increase is required for compliance with I.C. 63-1311A. Federal regulations govern the pricing of all meals in the USDA Child Nutrition Programs.

All families are encouraged to fill out the Free and Reduced School Meal Application, available at the Richfield School, to see if their children qualify for free or reduced price student lunch. published 3/27 &

2024

...Idaho Losing Farms continued

available for the national, state and county levels, as well as by congressional district, zip code and by watershed.

“For decades, the information provided through the Census of Agriculture has helped us understand American ag,” Chavonda Jacobs-Young, USDA Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics, said during the livestream event.

She said the data is critically important in supporting sound policy and decision making. “Bottom line, we need data to make well-informed decisions,” Jacobs-Young said.

Other national and Idaho highlights of the 2022 Census of Agriculture:

The average size of a farm in Idaho during 2022 was 505 acres, up 8 percent from 468 acres in 2017. Nationally, the average size of farm in 2022 was 463 acres, up from 441 acres in 2017.

Canyon County had the most farms in Idaho in 2022, with 2,311. Twin Falls County ranked second (1,169), followed by Ada County (1,142) and Bingham County (1,081).

When it comes to total value of agricultural production, Cassia County ranked No. 1 among the state’s 44 counties with $1.15 billion in 2022. Twin Falls County ranked second ($1.14 billion), followed by Gooding County ($1.12 billion), Jerome County $944 million) and Canyon County ($829 million).

The average age of an agricultural producer in Idaho was 56.6 in 2022, up slightly from 56.4 percent in 2017. Nationally, the average age of a farmer ticked up from 57.5 in 2017 to 58.1 in 2022.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Pursuant to Idaho Code §50-1317, §50-1306A, §67-6509, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Camas County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing in the Camas County Annex, located at 517 Soldier Rd, Fairfield, ID 83327, on the 8th of April, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. The purpose of this hearing is for the public as well as the Board of Commissioners to discuss a proposed petition for vacation of a portion of Elm Street (Loop) that does not match the road geometry within the boundary of the new subdivision: Buttercup View Estates (FKA Rancho Buena Vista). Portion within Section 29, T1N., R16E., B.M, Camas County, Idaho.

Written comments and other documentation will be received by the Camas County Courthouse Clerk until 5:00 p.m. April 5, 2024 at PO Box 430, Fairfield, ID 83327 or deliver to 501 Soldier Road. Public comment will be limited to 5 minutes per speaker at the public hearing.

Services for persons with disabilities may be made available by calling the Clerk’s office at the Camas County Courthouse 764.2242 three (3) days in advance of the hearing.

Attest: Brianna Walter, Board of County Commissioners Clerk

NOTICE OF SURPLUS INVENTORY

The Gooding Fire District will be selling surplus inventory through the State Fire Marshal’s Website. Visit – www.doi.idaho. gov/state-fire-marshal/ to view the surplus items.

The apparatus will be listed on the Fire Marshal’s website until April 13, 2024. If not sold on the Fire Marshal’s Website, the apparatus will be auctioned at the next available auction at Magic Valley Auction, Jerome, Idaho.

Items to be surplused will include:

Gal. Water Tank, 20 Gal. Foam Tank, Dual Hose Reel. Pump Hours: 2,744

Miles: 81,879

VIN: 1GBG5E3978F413957

us on the web at

Tee’s

9 out of 10 people love chocolate. The 10th person is lying.

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU PUZZLES

FOR SALE

► Construction Services. Call 208-450-9411

We also have Firewood for Sale. Many prices, lengths and types. Pick up for discount - delivery available.

► For Sale: horse corral, metal tubing, 7 panels $400. Hamley saddle, excellent $500. Hand tooled saddle, $300. Black Diamond wood splitter, 27ton, like new $950. Call 208-539-5525.

► Sullivan 185 CFS Air Compressor on wheels - $7,000. 150' hose on winder for air compressor$500.00. Midwest Model #845 Back Flow Testing Kit (excellent condition) and miscellaneous back flow parts - $500.00 Call Steve for more information and/or pictures 208/539-4689.

► Firewood: Split 3 years seasoned Russian olive delivery in the Magic Valley 208-421-5146

SERVICES

► PATCHING Levi, coveralls, etc. Repair broken zippers in anything: jackets, bags, pants, etc. Hemming: pants, dresses, coveralls, etc. Drop Off at 380 East Salmon Street in Hagerman, or Julie’s Ace Hardware in Gooding. 208-837-6267 - Kathy.

► Horse Boarding available along the Malad River, price negotiable. Also available trims (no shoeing), and U-Load wood chips, $35 a pickup. Please call James at 208-320-3839.

 Employment 

► Camas County Road & Bridge seeks to fill (1) Part Time-Seasonal equipment operator position. Successful applicant must reside in Camas County at the time of employment. Must have a Class A CDL drivers license. Applications and job descriptions are available at the Camas County Courthouse (501 Soldier Road - Fairfield, Idaho. Position is open till filled. Camas County is a Equal Opportunity Employer.

► Idaho’s Mammoth Cave in Shoshone, Idaho, is hiring for the 2024 summer season (starting in May) for a part-time museum and admission attendant. Requirements include good math and customer service skills, the ability to lift 50+ lbs, and reliable transportation. Also hiring part-time cleaners, 2-3 days per week, and general laborers on a perproject basis to help maintain landscaping, load and unload materials, and provide support to Idaho’s Mammoth Cave. Call us at (208) 3295382 or send your current resume to idahosmammothcave@gmail.com

► Camas County School District is seeking a team member to work as a Kitchen Manager. We need someone who is able to establish effective relationships with students, staff, and community. To make application please login to the district website and fill out the classified application online. For further information please contact Wendy Strickler at the School District office, 610 Soldier Road Fairfield, Idaho, by phone at 764-2472 ext. 1004, or by email at wstrickler@camascountyschools.org.

► Camas County Sheriff’s Office has a dispatcher job opening. Part time job with 16 hours weekly, plus fill in occasionally. The job consists of two 8-hour shifts weekly. Applicant must be able to stay calm in stressful situations and have good communication skills. Pay rate is $13 to $15 dollars an hour depending on experience. Please send resumes to dispatch@camascounty. id.gov or mail in at PO Box 220 Fair field, Id 83327. You can also pick up an application at the Sheriff's Of fice at 119 Willow Ave W in Fairfield. Camas County is a equal opportunity employer.

► D&D TRANSPORTATION in Gooding is HIRING NOW for dedicated, professional, long-haul drivers. Visit www.ddtsi.com/careers

Apartments for Rent

D&G Apartments in Fairfield has clean, attractive apartments available from time to time. These federally assisted affordable housing units offer rental assistance with rent adjusted to your income - ranging from $0 to $600 per month - water, sewer and trash are paid. For more information, contact Gordon Schmidt at 208-421-6723 For the hearing impaired, contact: TTY 1-800-833-6388. Equal Housing Opportunity.

We Are An Equal Opportunity Provider

Gooding Senior Housing

Rent based on income.

Must be 62 years or older

Handicapped or Disabled (any age)

USDA Rural Development subsidy

One Bedroom Apartments Available Periodically. Call 208 934-8050 for application.

We Are An Equal Opportunity Provider