IDAHOME farmhouse with a modern twist
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EDITOR’S NOTE PAGE 6
AROUND TOWN PAGE 8
EVENTS PAGE 12
EAST IDAHO WELLNESS PAGE 22 — 29
FOOD FOR THOUGHT PAGE 40
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT PAGE 46
LISTABLE PAGE 48
FRIENDLIEST OF IF PAGE 54
EAST IDAHO EDUCATION PAGE 58
IN THE KITCHEN PAGE 62
CELEBRATE LIFE PAGE 64
KIDS CORNER PAGE 66
PROFORM AIRBORN
WEDDING INSPIRATION PAGE 14 THE ULTIMAGE WEDDING CHECKLIST PAGE 20
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PERSON OF THE YEAR PAGE 38
FACES OF THE FALLS PAGE 42
SPLASH OF ROMANCE PAGE 60
When Jason Harris first had the idea to create the Idaho Falls Magazine, his vision was clear: to share the good news of Eastern Idaho. Since its establishment in 2001, the magazine has cemented itself as a community magazine, but of course, many things have changed over the years. For one, the Idaho Falls community has grown at a rapid rate, and two, media coverage has changed exponentially. To keep up with these changes, we at the Idaho Falls Magazine have made it our mission to Celebrate the Great Life in Eastern Idaho larger than years before.
When I first started working for the magazine three years ago, I was so excited to write for a community magazine. I had seen the magazine all over town featuring the stories of local people, businesses and events, and never could have imagined that one day I would get to write some of those stories too.
Myself and my team are grateful that the community still holds a space for us to feature local stories and in 2025, we want to pay it forward by taking our readers and advertisers feedback into consideration. After much discussion, the final verdict was this: a relaunch of Idaho Falls Magazine.
To commemorate a relaunch of our beloved community magazine, we plan to bring back some favorite departments and feature some new ones, putting more effort into our content, look and layout. The year will be filled with more stories featuring the people within our community and rather than ‘Sharing the Good News of Eastern Idaho,’ we will ‘Celebrate the Great Life in Eastern Idaho.’ Departments you will find in each issue include IDaHOME, Faces of the Falls, Food for Thought, Business Spotlight, Friendliest of IF, In the Kitchen, Kid’s Corner and going forward, we will feature a Person of the Year each year.
The 29th Annual East Idaho Fly Tying and Fly Fishing Expo will return to the Mountain America Center in Idaho Falls on Feb. 14-15. Hosted by the Snake River Cutthroats, Idaho Falls Chapter for Trout Unlimited and Fly Fishers International, the Expo will feature over 80 fly tiers, including national award winners, demonstrating their tying techniques. Workshops will be offered on casting, tying, introduction to fly fishing, a one-and-a-half day women’s-only program on fly fishing, and youth programs. Over 50 vendors and non-profits will be available representing the flyfishing community. Raffles and silent auctions will be conducted throughout the day where Expo visitors can participate.
Dave Pace, the Expo co-chair, announced “We are excited to include the International Fly-Fishing Film Festival as part of the Expo this year.” The films will be featured Friday night at the Blue Cross of Idaho Conference Center. The banquet with live and silent auctions, including boats and excursions, will be on Saturday night.
Admission to the Expo is free on Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To register for workshops or purchase tickets to the film festival or the banquet, visit SRCExpo.org.
The Idaho National Laboratory announced the opening of the 2025 Bright Future in Energy Scholarship competition, a scholarship program open to 11th and 12th grade students interested in pursuing a postsecondary education and career focused on science, technology, engineering or math. With funding provided by Battelle Energy Alliance, INL expects to award $25,000 in scholarships to winners and runners-up. In its fifth year, the competition recognizes the best and brightest students for innovative thinking and excellence in science, technology, engineering and math.
Participating students will research one of three science-related topics. Students will first prepare a comprehensive slide deck for review by an expert panel of judges. The judges will then select a group of finalists to present their findings virtually to the panel.
Applications will be accepted through Friday, Feb. 21. Complete details and applications can be found at stem.inl.gov
“ And I think the most important thing for women, men, or anybody who sees my story and feels inspired by it is that I didn’t start down this trajectory of this path of higher education until I was pretty old.”
President of CEI, Lori Barber
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“My regulars come in and ask, ‘Where’s Darla?’ because they want to talk to me. They don’t come here just to eat and be rushed. They want to be able to talk with me about their lives, vacations, and what’s going on in their family. People like to be befriended and they love to be remembered.”
Darla Arnold
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EASTERN IDAHO COMMUNITY PHOTO CONTEST DEADLINE
Photo Credit: Breezy Bird, 1st Place in 2024 EICPC Events
This year marks the 16th East Idaho Community Photo Contest where we highlight the community of talented and imaginative photographers in East Idaho. This multi-faceted, free-to-enter competition showcases some of the best photography in the region. Featured in the contest are images in categories including portraits, events, sports and leisure, nature and wildlife, scenics, birds and beyond.
To enter the contest, photographers can submit up to three entries per category by Mar. 1 . You can submit online at idahofallsmagazine.com.
The Annual Driggs Snowscapes features the art of sculpting snow with larger-than-life sculptures. Each year, seven skilled sculpting teams showcase their talents and compete for a grand prize. Sculpting days are Jan. 20-24 and the annual block party and award ceremony will take place on Jan. 25 at Driggs Plaza, 60th Main Street. This is a one-of-a-kind event with tons of snow and tons of fun for locals and visitors. For more details, head to www.driggssnowscapes.org.
The annual East Idaho Dining Awards showcases the restaurants around the region that were named the best of the best. Each year, our readers vote for their favorite restaurants across 20 categories and the winners are published in the July issue of Idaho Falls Magazine . The voting window is open Apr. 1 and closes at the end of the month at idahofallsmagazine.com
Get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the Museum of Idaho’s upcoming special exhibit, Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine, opening Feb. 1. This groundbreaking exhibit—the first of its kind in the U.S.—takes visitors on a journey through the evolution of AI, unveiling how it works, what it can achieve and what the future may hold.
From machine learning to voice recognition, this exhibit showcases the cutting-edge science and technology driving AI today. Through interactive games, puzzles and hands-on activities, you’ll explore the similarities and differences between human learning and machine intelligence. Engage
with thought-provoking displays that connect AI to real-world applications, history, and of course, popular culture.
Whether you’re curious about AI’s presence in your daily life or intrigued by its role in shaping the future, Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine invites you to discover this transformative technology in a whole new way. For more information, head to museumofidaho. org/aiexhibit.
Special thanks to Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine presenting partner the Idaho National Laboratory.
Our editor is currently searching for stories that fit within the
Email Maudie Heard maudie@idahofallsmagazine.com with your
IDAHO FALLS HOCKEY: SPUD KINGS VS. UTAH OUTLIERS
The Spud Kings will play against the Utah Outliers at the Hero Arena. Tickets can be purchased at ifspudkings.com/tickets.
TIME: 7:05 p.m.
LOCATION: Hero Arena at Mountain America Center CONTACT: www.mountainamericacenter.com
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IDAHO FALLS HOCKEY: SPUD KINGS VS. CASPER WARBIRDS
The Spud Kings will play against the Casper Warbirds at the Hero Arena. Tickets can be purchased on ifspudkings.com/tickets.
TIME: 7:05 p.m.
LOCATION: Hero Arena at Mountain America Center
CONTACT: www.mountainamericacenter.com
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IDAHO FALLS HOCKEY: SPUD KINGS VS. CASPER WARBIRDS
The Spud Kings will play against the Casper Warbirds at the Hero Arena. Join the crowd for a fun night out watching hockey and enjoy snacks from the concessions. Tickets can be purchased at ifspudkings.com/tickets.
TIME: 7:05 p.m.
LOCATION: Hero Arena at Mountain America Center
CONTACT: www.mountainamericacenter.com
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The Lava Hot Springs Fire & Ice Winterfest is held annually during the first full weekend of February and is full of fun events. Bring your friends and family to celebrate winter with the crazy polar bear float, running of the bulls, kids’ activities and more.
LOCATION: Lava Hot Springs CONTACT: www.lavahotsprings.org/event/fire-ice/
LOCATION: Snake River Event Center CONTACT: www.idahofallsfarmersmarket.org 8
The Idaho Falls Farmers Market is year-round for the first time ever! Throughout the winter season, there will be 6 indoor markets at the Snake River Event Center featuring many local vendors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
TIME:10 a.m.-3 p.m.
FEB.14-15
Watch or participate in this historical race, which takes place in Ashton. The event features five different races. Register online to participate or visit Ashton on race days to watch the events.
TIME: 9 a.m.
LOCATION: Ashton CONTACT: www.americandogderby.com
For parents and kids ages 2-5, explore a new topic through crafts, games, songs and snacks. Two 1-hour-long class options are available at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
LOCATION: 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. CONTACT: Museum of Idaho CONTACT: 208-522-1400 | www.museumofidaho.org
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For kids ages 6-12, enjoy fun hands-on learning in a new STEM topic each month.
TIME: 1:30-3 p.m.
LOCATION: Museum of Idaho CONTACT: 208-522-1400 | www.museumofidaho.org
by karcin harris
It’s the new year, which means it’s time to prepare for everything the new year brings. If you or someone you know is recently engaged and in need of a wedding venue, here are some wonderful options in and near Idaho Falls.
The Barn on 1st is a fully restored barn with a large outdoor space. It features 25-foot barrel ceilings, large windows, and white walls. The barn was recently renovated and given a clean new look while maintaining its historic charm. The second story has a beautiful patio, and the outdoor area includes a large open grassy area, a wooden fence, and beautiful trees.
This venue was opened by the Dean and Deanna Ockerman family. Originally, the family worked as wedding decorators before stumbling upon the restored barn.
“We couldn't resist the allure of creating a venue of our own that would bring joy to countless couples,” said Dean.
Deanna said her and her husband Dean share a passion for creating beautiful spaces.
“Our barn is a unique blend of rustic charm and modern elegance,” BLANK said. “The light-filled interior and spacious yard offer endless possibilities for both intimate and grand celebrations. Whether you envision a rustic affair or a sophisticated soirée, our venue is the perfect canvas for your dream wedding."
The Brickyard is a new venue built with an elegant, modern style. There is a large assembly area, an outdoor patio space, a beautiful entryway and fireplace, a stylish bride’s room, and a mezzanine overlooking the venue. The high ceilings, big windows, and classy style make it a beautiful space.
The Brickyard was opened in February 2022 and is owned and operated by Brian and Kayla Wood. The couple opened it when they saw the need for an event center in the Ammon area.
Brian is a funeral director by trade, so he appreciates being able to plan happy and fun events at The Brickyard.
“I'm so accustomed to planning difficult events in the funeral business that it's a breath of fresh air to be able to plan some happy, celebratory events for our community as well,” he said.
Brian describes the venue as state of the art, and said its
modernity makes it unique.
“We were able to put in specific features that an event center ought to have from the get-go, including a bridesroom, caterer kitchen, and both covered and open patios with fireplaces and water features,” he said. “Our building is also state of the art and modern in design and technology so it's able to showcase and handle any event type in an absolutely first-class way.”
Brian said The Brickyard has been quite the adventure for him and his family.
“We really want to thank our community for the reception that we've had and the many different event types we've been able to host including weddings, funerals, quinceaneras, business meetings, school dances, graduation parties, sports and performance banquets, company Christmas parties, political watch parties, anniversaries, etc.,” he said. “We can't wait to see what new and creative events we'll be able to host in the near future!”
The DEC is a stunning venue in downtown Idaho Falls with a classy, stylish look. The exposed brick walls, wood flooring, bistro lighting, and two-sided fireplace make it the perfect space for a rustic yet modern wedding. The retractable front facade can also open up completely to Park Avenue, creating the perfect spot for food trucks!
The DEC was opened in 2019 to create a space for private and public events in downtown Idaho Falls.
Manager Mike Richards said the venue is unique because of the central downtown location, as well as the variety of events they host, both private and public.
“From comedy night to magic shows to live music, to weddings, and corporate meetings, we do it all,” he said.
“The DEC specializes in creating unique experiences for renters and attendees and is a versatile and accessible space for all,” Mike said.
The Atrium is an elegant venue with wood and brick accents. A gorgeous staircase, floor-to-ceiling windows, and beautiful chandeliers allow for as much or as little decoration as you choose. A baby grand piano, a large waterfall, and arbor-sized doors add to the charm of the space.
Nicole Humpherys manages the venue and acts as the wedding planner.
The venue has been operating since 2009. Nicole said their venue is special because of their grand staircase, which gives guests an opportunity for a dramatic entrance.
“I love working with brides and making their wedding day everything they’ve dreamed of,” she said.
Snake River Meadow is an incredible event center with lodging options and gorgeous views. It is located at the foot of the mountains, right along the Snake River. There is a beautiful barn as well as a wide open outdoor space for ceremonies and receptions.
Before becoming an event center, events manager Sarah Tapp said the space was part of another business that offered an RV and camping park.
“People asked if they could have weddings on the property and it's just grown from there,” Sarah said.
Sarah said the beautiful location is what makes the venue unique.
“We have lodging on site with an incredible view and lots of amenities,” she said.
Sarah said the best part of working with Snake River Meadow is to help couples have their dream wedding.
“We are so grateful to be able to serve couples and the community with a gathering place for any event,” she said.
The Arbor is a romantic venue featuring tall stained-glass windows, high ceilings, and a grand ballroom. What used to be a large church building, has been transformed into a beautiful event center. An additional dining room and event decor packages are also available at the venue.
Owner Sherri Hatch said she was looking for office space when she toured the historic church building.
“As soon as I walked into the chapel, I saw that it had the potential to be the most beautiful and grand ballroom,” Sherri said. “I went into the corner and pulled up the bright red carpet, uncovering beautiful original hardwood floors that lit up from the gorgeous floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows. I then turned to my husband and said, ‘Well, I guess this is my room.’”
After finding the space, they got to work restoring the hardwood floors and installing
chandeliers to make Sherri’s vision a reality.
“We've gone to great lengths to preserve the original vintage charm while adding a modern flair,” Sherri said.
Sherri said what sets The Arbor apart is the capacity to be an all-inclusive venue.
“With three warehouses of decor, we can make any vision a reality,” she said. “Not only do we decorate for the majority of our weddings, we also do catering, event coordinating, and florals.”
Another unique quality of the venue is the dining room, separate from the main ballroom that couples can use.
“I just love making my couples’ dreams come true,” Sherri said. “Seeing their faces light up the first time they walk into the grand ballroom is such a thrill.”
The Hive Venue is a stunning venue with gorgeous natural light, high ceilings and white walls. It features large doors that lead to an outdoor area and serve as a beautiful ceremony backdrop. The bride's room, groom’s room, and kitchen are each tailored for functionality and style.
Owner Cassidy Bell is also a photographer in the area, and started the venue after hearing the common complaint that there weren’t enough venues in the area.
“I started to dream about building one myself and my husband, Brennan, encouraged me to make it happen,” she said.
Cassidy said she was able to use her photographer’s perspective when designing The Hive, so there is lots of natural light, white walls and styled rooms. She also focused on including things that would
make the wedding vendors’ jobs easier.
“I started to ask friends of mine within the industry what they loved about working in other spaces or what they've always wished for in a venue and tried to incorporate as much of that as possible so I could make it easy for them to offer their best services to our mutual clients as well,”
Cassidy said. “The end result is couples who love their weddings in our space because we've thought of so many helpful details tailored toward making their day simple, beautiful, and easy.”
Cassidy said she loves being able to be a fly on the wall for the very best days in people’s lives.
“It's so special to see each couple's unique love story and it never gets old watching people be in love and happy,” she said.
by amber blake
12 MONTHS 5 MONTHS
Determine your budget
Select a date
Hire a wedding planner
Choose a venue
Make a guest list
Plan menu
Write your vows
Meet with your officiant
11 MONTHS 4 MONTHS
Hire vendors like photographer, videographer, DJ/band, caterer
Do hair and makeup trial
Apply for marriage license
Finalize details for your menu, decor, wedding cake and florals
10 MONTHS 3 MONTHS
Shop for your wedding dress
Select invitations
Register for gifts
Send rehearsal dinner invitations
Create seating chart
Make place cards
9 MONTHS 2 MONTHS
Choose bridesmaids dresses
Choose groomsmen attire
Send save the dates
Hire an officiant
Have first wedding dress/suit fitting
Confirm guest list
Book a walkthrough at the venue
Create playlist
Buy wedding party gifts
8 MONTHS 1 MONTH
Book florist
Book hair/makeup stylists
Plan/book your honeymoon
Book rehearsal dinner venue
Finalize seating chart
Give final headcount for venue and caterers
Put together wedding party gifts
7 MONTHS FINAL WEEK
Order rental furniture/decor
Order the wedding cake
Final dress fitting
Practice vows
Pack for honeymoon
6 MONTHS NIGHT BEFORE
Buy wedding rings
Food tasting with caterer
Pack the car
Have wedding dress steamed
Pack a bag of small personal items
One day, standing in an eye doctor’s office, Dee Rasmussen stood staring at scans of his brain in disbelief.
Just days prior, Dee was living a normal life as a husband, father of three and powderman. On a seemingly normal night, he reached down to pick up his youngest daughter from her crib, who reached back up and poked his right eye. The next morning, he woke up without sight. “I thought it must have caused some internal bleeding, and it will clear up in a day or two,” he said.
After several days of not regaining his vision, he headed to an eye doctor who suggested he get an MRI. Moments after the scan, he stands looking at the images when the radiologist looks at him and says, “How long have you had MS?”
“I told him I don’t have MS, and he says, ‘Oh, I’m sorry.’ So I
Both Dee’s physical and mental health had come a long way since his diagnosis. He went on to train for and complete three ultramarathons: two 40-mile loop runs in Bryce Canyon and one
Then a few years after his fitness journey began, he found himself in a yoga class for the first time, where he found a solace in yoga that was unlike anything else and, moreover, a community of
On an early morning run around the Green Belt, Dee’s hip flexors were in so much pain that he desperately wanted to find relief, and when he drove past the Yoga Co-Op, he stopped in. “I swung in that morning, and it was right when class was starting, and she didn’t have anybody show up to class,” he said. “She said, ‘Come on in.’ Didn’t charge me anything. She led me through a yoga
This one small gesture made a huge impact on his life, and he now practices yoga three to four days a week. “I look forward to coming
Despite the ups and downs since his diagnosis, Dee has remained kind-hearted and become an inspiration to so many around him.
“Dee is doing incredible things. The turnaround since his diagnosis and moving through depression and the turnaround in yoga. He’s the guy doing all the inversions and arm balances,” Nicole Packer, owner of Yoga Wellness Connection, said. “He’s very physically strong, and not that that’s what matters, but just where his physical body has arrived, I think is such a powerful message. We don’t need to be defined by any kind of diagnosis, mental, physical, or any label.”
by maudie heard
If you’re wanting to take a vacation but not travel too far from home, look no further. Xhale Resort & Spa is the perfect destination for your next staycation.
Formerly known as Xhale Day Spa, now Xhale Resort & Spa recently opened an adults only resort right next to the spa featuring indoor and outdoor hot pools, a pickleball court, a ping pong table, an outdoor kitchen, a fire pit, an event center and seven cabins that fit up to four people.
The resort offers a relaxing and peaceful experience where couples or friends can getaway for an overnight stay.
The addition of the resort was a muchneeded oasis for the community, according to owners, Rachael and Brock Merrill.
“The coolest thing about it is that it’s right in town,” Rachael said. “You feel like you are really in a resort somewhere far away, but you’re not. So you get the benefit of not having to spend half of your vacation driving. It’s super close, and it’s a peace of mind for a lot of people.”
The spa and resort reside on the historic Hatch House property east of First Street, a short jaunt away from the local dining and shopping scene in downtown. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, birthday, bachelorette party or group retreat, the features and close proximity of this resort give you plenty to do.
For more information, head to www. xhaledayspa.com.
by emily sucher, RD
Health starts in your gut. Gastrointestinal health is referred to as your gut health, but does much more than just digest your food. Gut health impacts mental health, immunity, weight management, nutrient absorption, chronic illness, and so much more.
Each person has a unique gut microbiome that is influenced by nutrition, genetics, environment, and lifestyle. The gut speaks directly to your brain, so you really can have a gut feeling. The feel-good neurotransmitter, serotonin, is produced in the gut. Since the brain and gut are interconnected, nourishing your gut health can do a lot to improve mental well-being. When thinking about optimizing your health in any regard, your gut is a great place to start!
Since your gut is complex, it takes a wide variety of nutrients and lifestyle habits to create an ideal gut environment. Let’s start with the basics!
Fill your plate with all the colors of the rainbow with veggies like broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Your gut needs fiber known as prebiotics in order to be able fuel the probiotics.
Probiotics are healthy microorganisms that support a healthy gut. Think of them as little bugs that help digest food and fight off the unhealthy microorganisms that are trying to invade your system. Probiotics include kimchi, kefir, yogurt, and miso. Food first is usually the best approach, but supplements are available.
AIM FOR WHOLE FOODS
And limit foods that are processed including artificial sweeteners. Processed ingredients can cause harm to the gut microflora.
Drinking water helps with transporting nutrients and flushing out your digestive tract of waste.
Stress puts a lot of strain on your body. Practice meditation, breathing, or yoga if you live a stressful life.
Exercise is important for more than just your heart and body. Exercise also can support your gut and improve your digestion.
Supporting your gut is a foundational piece to achieving your health goals. The gut microbiome shifts every day, meaning it is an ongoing health factor you can nourish and monitor to maintain your health. Working with a registered dietitian to identify what is missing from your gut health regimen can help you efficiently and sustainably make health changes for your physical and mental wellness.
Emily Sucher, RD is a women’s health dietitian specializing in insulin resistance and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) covered by many health insurances. For more information, visit www.livewelldietitian.com.
Every day, we get older. It is one of life’s inevitabilities. While it is unavoidable, there are simple steps we can take to help us live longer and better.
At Idaho Falls Community Hospital, we see thousands of patients each year. Some are doing amazing as they age, while others are facing challenges. Our team used our combined knowledge and experiences to develop our top five tips to help you slow down the aging process. You are never too old or young to make healthy lifestyle changes.
Believe it or not, loneliness can have a huge impact on your mental and physical health. If you want to age well and live longer, make sure you maintain strong connections with friends and family. Studies show it can help prevent chronic disease, like heart disease, diabetes and cancer, as well as improve cognitive function.
“Unfortunately, I often treat issues in the emergency room that could have been prevented if my patients regularly went to their doctor,” said emergency department physician, Dr. Matt Griggs. “Annual wellness checks can help you maintain your health and allow providers to detect issues early, when more interventions may be available.”
If you do not feel like yourself, make an appointment with your doctor. Do not ignore any potential symptoms or delay treatment!
According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, a third of injuryrelated visits to the emergency room are from falls. When we are young, falls do not seem like a big deal. However, as we get older, a fall can have a big impact on our life expectancy.
“One serious fall can take years off of your life,” said Idaho Falls Community Hospital’s Time Sensitive Emergency Program Manager, Jim Jarvie. “Falls easily lead to complications like broken bones, head trauma and reduced mobility, all of which can impact your overall health and quality of life. Investing a little bit of time in fall prevention goes a long way in aging well.”
Fall prevention can be as simple as wearing shoes with good traction and working out to maintain your strength and balance. If you notice your balance seems off, review your medications with your doctor to see if you can find the culprit or consider adding grab bars and handrails in your home to make it safer.
What you eat has a significant impact on your health. When your diet consists of mainly vegetables, fruits, lean proteins like chicken and fish, whole grains and nuts you are giving your body the fuel it needs to function at its peak. When our diets include a lot of processed foods, saturated fats and sugar, we increase our chances of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, dementia and a host of other health conditions.
“Healthy eating is the foundation for good health, well-being and disease prevention,” said Dennis Nguyen, Registered Dietician and Idaho Falls Community Hospital Diet Office Supervisor. “The science shows when we consistently make smart food choices, we can boost our productivity, brain function and add years to our life. It is never too late to make adjustments to your diet. Even small changes, like swapping water for soda, can make a big difference when it comes to your health.”
Keeping your brain engaged helps ward off cognitive decline, improves your quality of life and mental well-being. Try taking on new challenges, like learning a different language, picking up a hobby or even switching up how you drive to work.
No matter how old or young you are, following the tips above can have a positive impact as you age and help improve your chances of living a long, happy life. Remember, how you take care of yourself today will have a huge impact on your well-being in the future.
If there’s one thing that’s never going out of style, its farmhouses. Traditional farmhouses have been around for centuries, and over the past decade, a new style has come to town. Modern farmhouses. by maudie heard
Modern farmhouses are adored for their balance of antique details and contemporary elements. While the traditional farmhouse style is rooted in the practical and functional needs of its tenants, the modern farmhouse style favors simplicity and clean lines.
When local homeowner Amber Hendrickson was flipping through home and decor magazines, she grew to love the farmhouse style and knew it would be her family’s next home.
Located near the sand dunes, their 5,000 square-foot modern farmhouse sits on 1 acre with 4 bedrooms, 3 master baths and 3 half baths. When taking on the farmhouse style with a modern twist, Amber and her husband James consulted with JAB Construction, but the designer was none other than herself. “I saw bits and pieces of houses that I liked in magazines, but I didn't love just one,” she said. “I wanted to just do it my way with a little bit of all of the things I liked.”
This modern farmhouse is every architecture enthusiast's dream. The combination of traditional farmhouse features and modern elements created a cozy, charming, light and airy home.
Fireplaces are often focal points in farmhouse design and usually make use of brick or stone. Brick is a traditional farmhouse element that was carried throughout this modern farmhouse, and what
Amber describes as one of the traditional features she couldn’t go without. “The inside brickwork was actually done by Amber’s dad,” husband James said. “He’s a retired third-generation
mason, but he did all of the inside brick, which was pretty cool.” Surrounding the fireplace are two other traditional elements: shiplap walls and open shelving.
These lunch and dinner conversations add up across the decades until repeat customers become just as close to Darla as her own family. She said, “I really do love working here because of the people I get to meet. I’ve been waiting on some families for years…I’ve known the parents, the kids, and now even the grandkids. I know their names and what they like and don’t like to eat. It makes my heart warm to be connected to families like this.”
Some customers will sit at Darla’s tables every year for their birthday. Others bring in their new girlfriends and later she not only gets to witness their engagements, but has also been asked to help with the proposals on occasion.
Darla said, “One fiancé wanted me to put the engagement ring inside a margarita on the rocks. I was worried she would accidentally swallow it! So I tied the ring to the straw and let it dangle in the drink.”
Because families know Darla so well, they come in to show her their new babies, share updates, and describe fun vacations. Often, they’ll even ask Darla to share the good news for them. “I’ve been able to tell couples that they’re going to be grandparents,” she said. “And I love it when couples bring in their babies to show me because I knew them when they were little kids.”
People simply appreciate Darla’s personal attention. She said, “One Down syndrome customer named Trevor just loves me—he can’t leave without seeing me and giving me a hug. I have some autistic kids who come in; Tristin thinks I’m his girlfriend. People are drawn to me because they know I genuinely care about them. It’s so fun. It’s kind of an amazing thing to have this community that I’ve built here at the restaurant.”
At Garcia’s, Darla works five nights a week in the bar area and runs all 14 tables. Managers Ken and Carrie Despot know her so well that they’ve let Darla take the reins for her area. Carrie said, “She’s amazing. She’s helped us create a successful business here, that’s for sure.”
Since Darla enjoys being with people and makes great money, she’s loved working at Garcia’s for 32 years and counting. Other wait staff look to her for help with tense situations or advice. One 25-year-old waitress laughed and said, “I’d love to be as skilled as Darla, but she’s been working here longer than I’ve been alive!”
Darla has even made up a few off-the-menu specials that you
“Darla is always welcoming and considerate. She is genuinely positive, smart, funny, lighthearted and hardworking.”
— Lisa Torgramssen
can order. “I’ve made up a raspberry coconut margarita which a lot of people love. And you can order a Darla Bowl, which is chicken and rice with California veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, squash, and carrots) and our famous Espinaca spinach dip.”
Although she’s such a constant figure at Garcia’s that some people think she lives there, Darla tries to reach out into the community as much as possible. She admires the city’s Wall of Warmth, and owns and manages rental properties in the city. And if she hears that one of her regulars has a tragedy she’ll take them dinner for the night.
From Garcia’s, of course.
“I hate to cook, so Garcia’s is my go-to. Their food is amazing, and I really think it’s the best in town, especially their fajitas. We use all fresh ingredients and everything is made by hand. If I hear that one of my regulars had a death in the family, my boss will let me take them food. I can’t do everything, but I can provide dinner for a night,” she said.
In her mid 50s, she’s in great health and has no plans on retiring anytime soon, and when asked about it she can’t imagine being anywhere else. “I don’t know if I can ever retire because I’d miss it too much. I’m healthy now, but if that ever changed maybe Garcia’s would let me wander around and visit with people.”
Can you imagine it? Elderly and kind Darla, shuffling from table to table and bending down to hear your latest news. But forgetful? Never.
by amber blake
What makes a mom-and-pop shop so special to a small community like ours is the heart and passion the owners put into their small business. At Petal Passion, the boutique is more than a small business to its owners. It’s a passion for connecting with people in the community and creating bouquets so beautiful that they touch the hearts of others.
When Sarah and Jason Barrett set out to open a floral boutique in 2014, they knew they wanted to make a difference in the community.
“When people come in for weddings and funerals, I think what’s really rewarding is the way of not just having the business, but we're really trying to give 'em closure or celebrate the start of a new marriage or welcoming a new baby,” Jason said.
Before the idea of Petal Passion Floral Boutique was planted in her mind, Sarah had been working in different floral shops in Shelley and Idaho Falls for over a decade.
Her first job in a florist shop was 26 years ago when the owner of the shop pulled Sarah off of the street at a 4th of July parade and said, “I need some help in here. I heard you were good, and I would love to have you in here.” So Sarah’s journey as a florist began.
“She started training me, and I learned so much from her and just fell in love with it,” Sarah said. “That’s what I’ve done ever since.”
Along the way, Sarah mastered the skill of being a florist. Her knowledge of flowers and arrangements, customer service skills and her eye for detail grew, but her creative spell had always been in her.
“She’s always redecorating the house,” Jason laughed. Sarah agreed,“I’ve always been that way. When I was a little kid, my favorite thing to do was reorganize my room.”
Sarah’s natural knack for design is what makes Petal Passion stand out in the industry.
The floral boutique is filled with a wide variety of flowers that she describes as rare and unique. “We try to have a lot of flowers to choose from,” she said. “We try to carry stuff that people have never seen before, and that's kind of what I’m known for. People come in and tell me, ‘I love that you’re unique and different.’”
The flowers at the boutique come from all over the world. From roses and tropicals from Ecuador to tulips from Holland, the bouquets crafted here are unique for their color combinations, rare flower types, arrangement styles and accent flowers.
When it comes to her creative process, she often uses the old-school style of “roundy moundy,” as the florists call it. The roundy moundy style refers to florals that are arranged in a round, full and dome-shaped bouquet.
As a florist, Sarah pours her heart and passion into each arrangement, and as a business owner, she imparts her knowledge and skills to her team. “I love being able to teach them different things and skills,” she said. “I wouldn’t consider this a job. I would consider it a career because it’s a skill.”
The skills she’s taught others are the very ones she learned along the way. As soon as the flowers are delivered, they process them, cut them and place them in fresh water with preservatives that help them last longer in the cooler. Each step ensures the quality of the flowers and makes all the difference when crafting a fresh bouquet of flowers, as opposed to the flowers you will find at a grocery store.
As small business owners, both Sarah and Jason put their all into the floral boutique to provide a high-quality product, but they describe the most rewarding part of the job as seeing people’s reactions and knowing they’re helping make an event or occasion extra special.
Petal Passion offers arrangements for any occasion, including weddings, funerals, birthdays, anniversaries, dances or sympathy arrangements from Rigby to Shelley. On their website you will find a wide variety of florals to choose from, and the boutique offers same-day delivery.
For more details, head to www.petalpassionofidaho.com.
During the long and chilly winter months, nothing hits like a hot bowl of soup. A full-flavored, hot and creamy soup warms up not only the body, but the soul, too. The different combinations of broths, vegetables, meats and seasonings are reminiscent of a hearty and home-cooked meal. Discover our favorite 4 soups around town that soothe and nourish the soul with each spoonful.
This Hungarian Mushroom Soup served at A Street Soup Market is the definition of comfort in a bowl. This creamy mushroom soup nourishes the body with its hearty ingredients. A Street Soup Market serves an abundance of yummy soups, but the Hungarian Mushroom Soup is our favorite to warm up with.
Next on our list is the Clam Chowder served at Sandpiper Restaurant. This New England style of soup consists of traditional chowder ingredients, creating a warm bowl that remedies the body and soul.
Tom Yum Soup is everyone’s favorite Thai soup. Served at Krung Thep, this soup can be described in one word—yum. The strong, hot, and sour flavors, mushrooms, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal will leave your mouth watering with the blast of flavor.
Last but not least, the Lobster Bisque served at Jakers Bar & Grill is a classic, rich, creamy and flavorful soup. This soup is a classic for its combination of lobster, lobster stock, vegetables, cream and seasonings. Essentially a liquid hug for your taste buds.
by lane lindstrom
Alocal jump rope team may be one of the most famous and competitive athletic sports teams you’ve never (or barely) heard of.
Jumpin’ Jazz, the original name of the local jump rope team (changed to Proform Airborne in 1995), was started in 1988 by Connie Dunn, who “needed something to do,” and was joined a couple of years later by Shirley Orme. The two started a team that today is known worldwide for its competitiveness and amazing skills with jump ropes that has produced numerous U.S. and world champions.
Perhaps your children have seen some of the Proform Airborne team members perform at their school – the team is active in promoting physical fitness and discouraging harmful substance abuse – or you’ve seen jump ropers compete and perform locally at the Festival of Trees or in a Cirque show (including the recent Cirque Dreams Holidaze held at the Frontier Center) or even on TV on America’s Got Talent or as “venue performers” at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Many of those performers and athletes are from right here in eastern Idaho.
Yeah, the team is kind of a big deal.
STILL NOT CONVINCED? CONSIDER THIS:
• Proform Airborne has performed in two U.S. presidential inauguration parades in Washington D.C.
• Several Cirque Dreams shows feature jumpers who have been or are currently members of the team.
• The team has performed at the NASCAR Cup Series Championship at the Phoenix Raceway (2022 and 2023).
• The team members’ performance at the 2024 Olympics is notable for a lot of reasons, including the hope of jump rope being an official sport in future Olympics.
• Jumpers have competed on America’s Got Talent, Romania's Got Talent and Britain's Got Talent.
• The U.S. national jump rope team, which includes several Proform Airborne jumpers, competed at the 2023 World Championships in Colorado Springs, CO, as well as at the Double Dutch contest in Paris in 2022, coming in 2nd place in speed and 3rd place in freestyle competition.
• The team has numerous regional and U.S. jump rope tournament winners along with international champions.
• The team has performed at numerous sporting events, including during basketball halftimes at Utah State University and Brigham Young University.
• Team members have performed and competed across the world. Jumpers from Proform Airborne will send jumpers to a qualifying event in North Carolina in February with the winners moving through to the 2025 World Championship in Kawasaki, Japan in July of this year.
Not bad for a small group of volunteer coaches and dedicated, hard-working kids, most of whom are aged 12-24 years old.
You would expect the sport of jump rope to improve, and get more creative and intense as the years pass with today’s jumpers performing aerial stunts and aggressive tricks within the ropes. Sometimes, however, what is lost in all that is that some of the advances in the sport have originated and been made by Proform Airborne.
What people see today in jump rope performances and competitions is, pardon the pun, leaps and bounds ahead of where the team was when it started nearly 30 years ago.
Proform Airborne Head Coach Monica Foster said, “The skills I ended my competition career with at 21 are the same skills now easily being done by 11 and 12-year-olds. The amount of talent is incredible and the level of endurance appears to have no limit.”
That level of competition and skill takes a lot of practice and dedication, Foster added.
The team today is a mix of newcomers and veterans, and it holds community classes for all ages and skill levels. Due to the popularity of jump rope in the area, Proform Airborne has split the team into three “tiers.” The “C” and “B” team practice once a week and have
opportunities to compete here in Idaho Falls as well as perform in school and community shows.
When it comes to the “A” team, Proform Airborne Assistant Head Coach Brita Lindstrom explained, “The ‘A’ team is our nationally ranked competitive team members. They practice 8-12 hours a week depending on the time of year. They generally are expected to do shows and compete at as high of a level as they can. All ‘A’ team members compete at the national tournament each summer.”
It’s the “A” team members who will try out for a national team that will compete in Japan this summer.
All this practicing and training has not gone unnoticed. As mentioned, Proform Airborne, along with the broader world of jump rope, has gained notoriety and popularity over the years as you see performances by teams and individuals in all sorts of venues and all a myriad of events.
“Jump rope has gained more momentum in the entertainment industry, becoming more common at circus shows, in amusement parks and at company retreats,” Foster said. “More schools are also incorporating jump rope into their PE classes and in assemblies across the country.”
Circling back to Proform Airborne, where do the coaches see the team in 5 years? Ten years?
“One of the biggest goals is to have jump rope debut as an Olympic sport in the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics,” Foster and Lindstrom said. “Along with having our own team members on the first Olympic jump rope team, we are hoping to make Idaho Falls a hub for an Olympic training center. Our team has produced some of the top athletes in the world and those athletes are being trained up as equally skilled mentors and coaching staff.
“We also hope to continue to spread the sport of jump rope to as many people as we can in the community. We know it’s a great way to be physically active, improve teaching and leadership skills, create lasting relationships across the globe, and even see new places.”
To get to where the team is today has taken a lot of people – and jumpers – over the years.
Lindstrom pointed out, “Monica and Matt Foster have had the biggest influence on the team for the last dozen years or so. They funded and built us a jump rope gym to call home. It’s been so nice to have the space and it really has helped the kids see just how successful they are and how much they deserve for their hard work.”
Monica Foster is also heavily involved with the national and world organizations in jump rope. The jump rope world would not run without her. She is the tournament director at world championships and has been for at least 10 years. She is very involved with the judging rules and helping our sport progress to becoming an Olympic sport. Monica had also been the head coach of Proform Airborne for 12 years.
“Connie Dunn, along with her assistant coach, Shirley Orme, started the team in 1988 and trained up a group of beginners in the sport to become world champions in less than 10 years,” Lindstrom added. “Other coaches have included Alex Macbeth, Wade Bowman, Kaitlyn and Tim Phillips, Eric Cornell and Melinda Andrus.”
500 AND COUNTING
It is estimated that Proform Airborne has had approximately 500 competitive and performance members over the years with the number of children who have participated in the team’s 36 years of community jump rope clinics estimated at more than 5,000.
Yes, the team is teaching, training and encouraging eastern Idaho youth of all ages to jump rope, but the team’s goals are even more broad than that.
The coaches commented, “As coaches, we always try to encourage our athletes to ‘be good humans’ and that comes in many forms. We’re proud when we see their hard work pay off in a perfect performance, or when they are proud of themselves after a competition when they see their hard work pay off. We are also proud when we see them encourage not only their own teammates but cheer on and become friends with others from around the country and world. We are proud when they show up on time and are reliable and respectful to others around them. We have the
best of kids in the world on our team, so being proud of them is so easy; they really are the best humans.
“Watching a team member overcome a challenge brings a lot of joy, whether that is a challenging skill, the ability to run a workshop on their own, or break through the barriers that hold them back from becoming the best they can become. Our No. 1 goal that comes before becoming a champion in the sport is to help them see the champion we already consider them to be.”
If you know someone interested in jump rope, the team offers community classes for both jump rope and gymnastics three days a week. Anyone can join at any age or skill level throughout the entire school year.
Visit proformairborne.org to learn more.
by maudie heard
Nestled in the heart of Downtown is a charming boutique with an emphasis on custom jewelry that has established itself in the community by focusing on the most basic of traits: being friendly.
This charming boutique is the product of two sisters’ childhood dream of one day owning a one-ofa-kind boutique, and in August of 2024, their dream came true with the grand opening of Bejeweled Creations.
Growing up, sister-duo Rorie and Arlie spent countless hours playing dress-up, trying on different styles of clothes, bows and accessories. A passion for fashion was instilled in them from an early age by their mother and grandmother.
“When we were little, my mom always styled us. We had like a hundred bows to pick from for every outfit,” Arlie said. “My grandma was always the type to say you don’t leave the house without make-up on or you don’t leave the house without lipstick on. You’re always dressed up, and that passed down to my mom and then to us,” Rorie said.
The duo’s passion for fashion and jewelry led them to what Rorie describes as a fun side gig creating
permanent jewelry in June of 2023. Arlie took the reins at the beginning of the side gig when an incompatible welder and other challenges halted the business. “It didn’t end up working out, but then my mom surprised us with a training program and a new welder,” Rorie said. “That’s when I started getting really into it.”
After a while, the two sisters reignited their spark and began on their journey again.
The side gig began as a fun hobby on the weekends for people to create permanent jewelry (pieces of jewelry that are welded together rather than traditional clasps.) The latest fashion trend had the business growing so fast that the girls decided to start creating custom charm necklaces, too.
“Within the first few months, we made over 200 charm necklaces for people in Idaho Falls,” Rorie said. “We were outgrowing our space because we had a little one-room salon and people would come in parties of seven, and we just didn’t have the room.”
When the space opened up at 545 Shoup Ave. in Suite 111, Rorie and Arlie jumped at the opportunity to pursue their dream of opening a boutique. The boutique is one-of-akind to the community, not only for its custom and permanent jewelry, but also for its custom trucker hats, fashionable clothes and accessories.
“I don’t know anywhere else in the area where you can go create a charm necklace, get permanent jewelry and shop, and do it all in one place,” Arlie said. “We’ve got blankets,
we’ve got clothes, we’ve got the jewelry and a place where you can come create an experience.”
The experience at Bejewled Creations is unique because of its girly environment. For the people who also love fashion and jewelry, the boutique is warm and inviting for you to make new friends, hang out downtown and discover the latest fashion trends.
“We wanted to create a place where people can come, feel comfortable, have fun and create an experience,” Rorie said. “And to also feel confident, and that they’re supported by each other.”
What sets this boutique apart is Rorie and Arlie’s kind, compassionate and supportive nature. When they set out on this business journey together, their main goal was to make every person who comes into the boutique feel beautiful.
“The most rewarding part about this has been being able to do this with my lifelong best friend. And creating something so one day we can show our kids that anything’s possible and to create an example for them,” Rorie said. “Our mom and dad both had a business and were self-employed. That was always my dream, to be able to be home with my mom, and I feel like it raised us into the people we are today, to have a good work ethic and to just be good human beings.”
Owners of Bejeweled Creations, Rorie, left, and Arlie, right, share their passion for fashion and jewelry in the heart of downtown.
by amber blake
There’s sometimes a notion in our country that if you don't do something by the time you're 25 or 30, then just forget about it. It's too late. But the president of the College of Eastern Idaho begs to differ. “It is never too late. It is never too late to pursue a goal,” Lori Barber said.
Lori hadn’t received her first degree in undergraduate until 10 years ago, when she embarked on a new career path at the age of 40. Now, she is the second president of the College of Eastern Idaho, proving that it’s never too late to pursue a goal.
Lori didn’t receive her degree until late, but her passion for education spans over two decades.
When Lori’s kids were young, she started and ran her own school, which she describes as a co-op. “My kids are grown and gone now, but we did that for many years,” she said.
In 2008, Lori and her family were living in France, where her kids were preparing to finish high school
when she got involved in accreditation, capacity building and expansion of the international school. “They didn’t really have a graduation there, and my oldest son was graduating, so I organized a whole graduation with a couple of other moms,” she said.
Lori’s involvement in her children’s education led her to want to pick back up where she left off many years ago. Before living in France, she lived in Oklahoma, where she grew up and attended the University of Oklahoma. “I never finished my degree because my husband got opportunities, and I began following him,” she said. “I became very interested in education when it came time for my children to go to school. That’s when I thought, ‘Education is what I want to do, educate.’”
When she moved back from France in 2011, she decided to finish her undergraduate education at Idaho State University. She received her bachelor’s degree in letters and history and a master’s degree in history and anthropology.
After graduating, Lori was offered an assistant lecturer
President Barber standing on the roof of Building 6 at the CEI campus, overlooking the construction of the newest building
Photo Courtesy: College of Eastern Idaho
position at the Idaho State University Idaho Falls Campus. “I was broadcasting classes down to ISU, and I heard about this opportunity to maybe turn the local technical college into a community college,” she said. “ISU is an excellent university, don't get me wrong, but I just felt like some of my students could have benefited from a community college. I was familiar with community colleges from Oklahoma, where I'm from, so I asked for an interview.”
Rick Aman, who at the time was the interim president of EITC, met with Lori several times leading up to the vote, and when the vote was approved, Aman hired Lori to build the general education transfer portion of the college.
Before EITC became CEI, they had some general education classes but not a full fleet of general education courses. When Lori stepped in, they needed someone who could grow and expand those general education courses. Her passion for education was the right fit, and she went on to become the Director of General Education, and in 2018, she became the Inaugural Dean of General Education. In 2019, she
became the Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs, a role she held for over 5 years, before being appointed as the second President of CEI.
“For anybody who looks at my story and says, ‘You know what? She didn't even start down that path until she was well into her 40s. Look where she's at now.’ And it wasn't without a lot of hard work. It wasn't without a lot of determination. It wasn't without a lot of help from a lot of people to help get me in this position. But what I would really like to say is, you truly can do anything that you set your mind to.”
Lori is a firm believer that higher education can change the trajectory of anyone’s life, no matter their age or circumstances.
“I want to be an example that you can do anything you set your mind to,” she said. “And I think the most important thing for women, men, or anybody who sees my story and feels inspired by it is that I didn't start down this trajectory of this path of higher education until I was pretty old.”
by karcin harris
If you’re in need of a romantic getaway, here are a few great locations within a reasonable driving distance from Idaho Falls!
For couples who enjoy skiing, Sun Valley is a great choice, with its two majestic peaks, Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain.
Scott Warren, marketing directory, said when couples aren’t on the slopes, they can enjoy soaking in one of three heated outdoor pools, or receive treatments at the 20,000 square foot luxury spa.
“Equally as impressive as Sun Valley’s range of outdoor experiences is the vast range of restaurants at the resort,” Warren said. “Consistently top rated, the dining options range from taking in 360-degree mountain views on top of Bald Mountain at the Seattle
Sawtelle Mountain Resort is located in Island Park, just 22 miles from Yellowstone National Park. Its mountain location makes it a prime choice for adventure seekers, like ATV and snowmobile enthusiasts.
Richard Turpin, manager, said the hotel and RV park comes with many different choices fitting all budgets, as well as amenities like a pool, game room, library of books, snowshoe rentals, E-bike rentals, ATV and snowmobile rentals, raft and tube rentals, breakfast for hotel and cabin guests, and many others.
Some of the rooms even have back doors leading to private hot tubs. Couples can enjoy the hot tubs while being surrounded by falling snow and beautiful forest scenery.
“November through March is a perfect
Lava Hot Springs is an iconic destination that many Idahoans know and love. The all natural sulfur free hot springs receive visitors from all around the world.
Public Relations Manager Destiny Egley said the hot springs are an especially romantic location on cold winter evenings.
“The setting is calming and beautiful with the surrounding beauty any time of the year,” she said. “Couples love to visit to relax, unwind and recharge from their busy lives and stressful world.”
Visitors can check out the website for more details and pricing.
“The cost is very affordable at $16 for two people Monday through Thursday or $24 for two people Friday through Sunday and holidays,” Egley said.
Pizza rolls are one of our go to appetizers for game days. I love that the ingredients are simple and I usually have them on hand. For an even quicker preparation use store bought pizza dough! Feel free to use all of your favorite toppings, just make sure to slice all toppings very thin so that they cook evenly in the rolls.
1 ½ c. Hot water(about 110 degrees)
2 tsp. Honey or granulated sugar
1 tbsp. Active dry yeast
2 tbsp. Olive oil
1 tbsp. Salt
4-4 ½ c. All purpose Flour
1 jar favorite marinara sauce
2 c. mozzarella, shredded
1 c. Parmesan cheese, shredded Mini pepperoni
And any of your other favorite toppings
¼ c. melted butter
1/4 tsp. Garlic powder
1/4 tsp. Italian seasoning(optional)
Pinch of salt
by jessica hallam
1. In a mixing bowl of a stand mixer, fitted with a dough hook; combine water, honey, and yeast. Let bloom for 3-5 minutes until it’s foamy.
2. Add the remaining ingredients and mix on low for 6 minutes.
3. If the dough is still sticky, add flour ¼ c at a time until the dough no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl. Cover and let rise until doubled in size (about 45 minutes)
4. Preheat oven to 400
5. Once it has risen, punch the dough down and place it onto a floured surface.
6. Roll the dough out until it’s the thickness of your thumb.
7. Spread a small amount of sauce over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch space on the top length of the dough. This will help the dough stick together after rolling.
8. Next, evenly sprinkle cheeses over the sauce. Then sprinkle pepperonis.
9. Now, you’re going to roll the dough up like you would a cinnamon roll.
10. Starting at the left bottom corner, roll the dough up one inch. Continue that down the whole length of the dough. Repeat one more time, forming a tight roll. Then roll the dough the rest of the way up, keeping it as tight as possible. Pinch the seams together at the top.
11. Roll the dough so the seam is at the bottom. Cut 1.5 inch strips.
12. Carefully place the rolls onto a greased baking sheet. And let it rise for 15-20 minutes.
13. In a small glass bowl melt the butter. Then stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning and salt.
14. Using a pastry brush, brush the melted butter mixture on the rolls. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown on the bottom and sides.
15. Serve with warmed marinara.
by susan stucki
Thousands of area residents were involved with the October food drive for the Community Food Basket, donating and collecting food to help our foodinsecure friends. Neighborhoods collected and delivered huge loads of donations while volunteers at local grocery stores collected donations from shoppers. The recipients of the food are not the only ones blessed. Volunteers shared their experiences and feelings about this Herculean campaign.
“
Without community service, we would not have a strong quality of life. It is important to the person who serves as well as the recipient. It’s the way in which we ourselves grow and develop.”
— Dorothy Haight
Some of their insights include statements like these:
• “Serving the community through JustServe and the Community Food Basket has been a great privilege and experience. We met so many wonderful volunteers who were willing to help and serve. It is uplifting and comforting to rub shoulders with such great people.”
• “Not only were the huge crates filled with generous donations one after another, but our hearts were also filled with deep gratitude to be part of a giving community. It’s when people come together to serve for a greater cause you feel the beauty and the true meaning of service.”
• “I was deeply touched by the first person that arrived Saturday at the food drive drop-off at a local school. This lady pulled up in a vehicle needing repairs and came up with two small cans of food. She said, ‘this is all I can donate’. I asked her if she was sure she wanted to and she said, ‘yes! I need to!’ Her
two cans were the first to be placed in the donation trailer! She hugged me and I thanked her! After she left, I cried! She gave all she could!”
• “A business donated 2,256 pounds of frozen chicken and mashed potatoes I was so touched by the outpouring of donations.”
• “So many giving families in our community! So grateful to live here! It was a special experience to witness and be part of!”
• “I picked up donations on a Saturday from Albertsons. I was happy to see so many boxes of cereal being donated. I remember as a single mother not being able to buy my kids name brand cereal, so that made me very happy to see that happening.”
• “While helping at the drop-off location several parents brought their children and allowed them to put the bags of food in the boxes.”
• “One man brought a full pickup load of food. I asked how he heard about the drive, and he said his wife saw it on Facebook and wanted to participate. I thanked him and asked him to thank his wife. It was good knowing the word was getting out to communities.”
• “Nothing feels more humbling or satisfying than gathering food for those experiencing a lack of such a basic need. When I go to gather food from the grocery store donation barrels and happen to catch it when there are few items, it’s like an anchor slowly sinking in my heart. Oh, but what gratitude to go back again and find the barrel full. I love my community!”
The Boy Scouts of America joined the Community Food Drive in five local grocery stores on their Scouting for Food Day. It was a chilly day, but the scouts braved the cold. Besides Idaho Falls, the Boy Scouts had a presence in Shelley, Blackfoot, St. Anthony, Rexburg, Rigby, and in the Pocatello areas.
“We estimated around 8,000 pounds of food collected in the region of southeastern Idaho that went directly to the local food banks,” shared Elias Lopez, District Director “We had 225 Scouts and adults get involved at the various store fronts with over 900 man hours dedicated to feeding the hungry. We are very thankful for the opportunity that the Grand Teton Council had to do our part to help feed the hungry.”
by emmie leigh
The first experience children have with learning is in the home. I’ve become hyper-aware of this fact while observing the growth of my daughter over the past year and a half. She copies faces I didn’t know I was making, makes fun of me when I’m sick by copying my coughs, and is constantly shouting unexpected new words.
It brings me an immeasurable amount of joy to watch her education journey. Right now, she is learning simple concepts like matching, and she utilizes her small but quickly growing vocabulary. We don’t do anything that requires money or special skills to build these skills. We simply give her our time and, in return, we receive the greatest gifts of all. That includes watching her learn to speak.
Screen time should be limited during the early years of development, but small amounts of interactive shows can encourage speech development. Shows can help children reach educational milestones when they encourage interactivity, which is the reason why many old favorites remain at the top of recommended lists. Here are a few my family recommends:
• Sesame Street
• Miss Rachel
• Bluey
• Blue’s Clues
• Barney
• Dora the Explorer
Playing with your child isn’t just fun, it’s a great way to teach and prepare them for speech development concepts they will learn at school. Here are three categories to consider shopping for:
Examples include Melissa & Doug’s block set or Little People’s set, but there are plenty of awesome off-brand options as well. Farm toys are a great way for kids to learn the names of animals and the sounds they make. The sets can also be used for everyday pretend play.
Depending on your child’s age, books might just be in the background of their play area. Keeping them accessible allows them to continue to build interest. Sitting with your child to read stories can also help them to develop a strong love for reading.
Legos, Lincoln Logs, Magnetic Tiles, etc. are all incredible ways to encourage imaginative creation. These toys can facilitate everything from following verbal directions to sorting and matching.
