Letters to the Editor........................................Pages

In Support of Bob Christophersen and Ken Eliason

We live in such a great community! I am impressed with the calibar of people running for county commissioner. However, I feel that I need to express my support for our two current commissioners, Bob Christophersen and Ken Eliason.

I have attended a lot of County Commissioner meetings. I have found in our county commissioners men who are aware of the needs of the county and yet who are trying to maintain conservative policies. I have been particularly grateful for our current commissioners working with the city. We are such a small city and county that it is prudent for us to combine our needs. We have accomplished this with our law enforcement, the senior center and with the city/county building inspections. We meet regularly for our Malad City/Oneida County Economic Development Foundation; and we have worked hard the past two years setting goals for the city and county to make our community more attractive to its residents and to new business.

I have known Bob Christophersen my entire life. He and I graduated from high school together, and I won’t say what year! Bob has been involved in this community for many years. He volunteered on the Chamber of Commerce and is a past member of the Malad City Council. He knows and understands small communities and their governments. He’s not afraid to work, and he’s not afraid to make hard decisions. I have always known him to be fair in his decisions.

Many may not realize the number of meetings required of a commissioner. They do not just attend the bi-monthly county commissioner meetings, which last anywhere from four hours to eight hours, but each commissioner has several areas of responsibility, and with those there are meetings to attend. In addition, they have meetings with our neighboring counties that they attend regularly. I know that Bob is very cognizant of the importance of these meetings and attends them all.

Bob is currently chairman of 4-CASI, the four county economic development group, and he recently went through the difficult process of finding a new administrator for that group. I know that he is a hard worker and will always see a job through to the end.

Sincerely,

Joan Hawkins, Mayor Malad City, Idaho

In Support of Brian Jeppsen

I am writing to share my support for Brian Jeppsen as Oneida County Commissioner. He has many outstanding qualities that have come about from issues and experiences learned in Oneida County for 39 years and from other places outside Oneida County. Forty three years of marriage, three children and 11 grandchildren shows true commitment and devotion to family, as well as being involved in many community, church and organizational projects.

Working alongside Mr. Jeppsen in Interfaith Council for the past six years, I have seen his leadership, decision-making attributes, kindness, ability to work and understand others. He attends and participates at every meeting and event, listens to those who speak, weighs the facts and opinions and makes decisions that benefit the people and community projects.

At the recent Lincoln Days Event, Brian had the opportunity to mingle, “rub shoulders” and campaign with many State and Regional candidates and incumbents as a politician would do, but instead supported the kitchen staff by preparing and serving the wonderful meal to the nearly 200 people that attended. There are many more qualities I could list, but if you have concerns about our county like rapid growth, infrastructure, water issues and property taxes, please visit with Brian and get his perspectives. He is the man for the District 3 Seat.

Respectfully submitted by Toni Werk.

In Support of Brian Jeppsen

I'm writing in regard to my friend, Brian Jeppsen - candidate for Oneida County Commissioner.

I have known Brian for a number of years and have found him deeply committed to the rights of the individual. He is very concerned about the property rights of those in our community - whether real estate, tangible assets or hardearned income which is our property - because we traded our resources (time, effort and/or risk) for it - and is committed to helping us keep that property. He has an analyst's mindset - he listens intently to all arguments and assesses the problem with an eye toward its relationship to the rights of all citizens. He is a strong constitutionalist and is passionately averse to institutional dominion. He is also passionate about transparency. He wants to make the administration of county business as open as possible - This is more than publishing the minutes of the county commissioner meetings - he wants the county community to see how much money the commissioners approve for the paying of fines the county is assessed. Brian is a man of faith, with years of volunteer participation in faith-based activities that benefit the entire county. As stated before, he has an ear toward listening, a heart toward understanding and a will toward the benefit and rights of all.

Please join me in voting for Brian Jeppsen! Drew Pettis Malad, Idaho

In Support of Bob Christophersen

When we find ourselves embroiled in controversies and all the accompanying disarray we need leadership that is willing and wanting to listen with prudence and sensitivity. A listening that seeks compromise and reconciliation in that deep understanding that a community thrives when we bring accommodations to pathways that cultivate togetherness. Unity born in mutual interests has always been the catalyst that affords us the abilities to overcome the many difficulties challenging small rural communities. When we strive for harmony, we do see a community’s prosperity displayed in kindness, gentleness and respectfulness.

Those of us who have come to know Bob over the many years of his service to others have seen his integrity, empathy, compassion, and devoted commitment to our community’s wellbeing.

We are rooted and shaped by where we have been, and when we look upon our history, we’ll find it has been the peace seekers that foster the calm forging of resilience and fashioning perseverance. And in that richness, we come to understand out Love for this community and our wanting to give back what has so graciously been given us by the peace seekers.

We need peace seekers. Bob is a peace seeker. You see it in his humility.

I'm writing in regard to my friend, Jeanie Hakes - candidate for Idaho State Senate - District 27.

I'd Like to start by identifying some of the troubling issues facing Idaho citizens, especially Oneida County. 1. Citizen's right to property. We are being taxed in a plethora of ways, most of which are not obvious to us as tax payers - if we knew how much of the price we pay for a gallon of milk was taken up by taxes, we would be appalled. 2. Citizen's right to a voice. I have seen constant viable and justifiable efforts by citizens to be heard, tabled and ignored by "politicians who know better". 3. Citizen’s right to determine the curriculum for our public K-12 schools. We have seen mandat3ed directives that are marginal and controversial at least and dominating at worst being implemented and proposed in our schools.

There are others, but there is neither time nor space to address them all. I would encourage all to consider Jeanie Hakes for State Senator - District 27. And here's why:

Jeanie is committed to allow market forces to limit inflation (an invisible tax) and enhance wealth - which will allow property and growth in all sectors of our community - commercial, benevolent and personal. Further, Jeanie is opposed to the sales tax on food - I have seen a lot of arguments about how essential to our state sales tax on food is. Is it possible for there to be a more oppressive tax to be levied upon citizens that to tax their capacity to feed themselves and their families? The idea that an annual rebate for that taxation falls short because people need to eat every day. Think this through.

Jeanie is committed to the fights of citizens over lobbyists and special interests. The reason that the sales tax on food was tables is because of the influence of those who gain. by its retention - Please talk to me about how grocers gain from sales tax on food.

Jeanie is committed to fundamental educational efforts - If our children are lacking something it is the capacity to choose their professional destiny because they are told that tradespeople have a limited place in our society. Additionally, they are not taught how to perform functional tasks like money management and critical thinking (critical thinking - something that is not being taught or exercised in our woke schooling environment today).

Jeanie is a woman of faith, with years of volunteer participation in faith-based activities that benefit the entire county. She has a commitment toward you and me, the will of a champion and the fight of a bear!

Please join me in voting for Jeanie Hakes! Drew Pettis Malad, Idaho

In Support of Bob Christophersen

Dear Editor,

Many years ago, Tall Bill, Big Jack, and Little Arthur handled all law enforcement in Oneida County. When a resident turned 60, he or she received a rocking chair at St. John Old Folks’ Day. The fire siren blew at noon to mark time for lunch. County Commission meetings were once a month and lasted a couple of hours.

Things are different now in so many ways. County Commission meetings are twice each month and may last all day and continue the next day. Besides regular meetings, Commissioners meet with their counterparts in other counties, meet with the local Mayor and City Council, meet with regional and State officials, and meet with subcommittees of subcommittees that are involved in the complex work of State and County government. There are 20 areas of responsibility divided among the three Commissioners. Many require multiple meetings every week. According to Bill Lewis, current Chair of the Oneida County Commission, each Commissioner ends up working 30-50 hours per week, doing research into their areas of responsibility and traveling to and participating in endless meetings-- all for very part-time pay.

Bob Christophersen has the time, stamina, expertise, and interest to put in the hours and hours required of a County Commissioner today. He quit his very part-time job because it interfered with his duties as County Commissioner. The job of County Commissioner is no longer a part-time, once a month social gathering. It is a full-time job for which the Commissioners have to have the passion, sense of responsibility, and time to help the residents of Oneida County resolve their endless lists of problems and complaints, to determine the best use of limited taxpayer dollars, to handle issues of rapid growth and development, and to ensure that the County is in compliance with its own ordinances and with state laws.

Please remember to vote on May 17 for a candidate who has the time to serve the residents of Oneida County as a County Commissioner. Vote for Bob Christophersen.

Sincerely, Jean Thomas

Letter to the Editor—Larry Oja

Dear Editor,

In the upcoming Primary Election, I wish to express my personal gratitude and thanks to all candidates who have filed petitions to serve “we the people” with their time and talents. I know that that comes with much commitment, unselfish sacrifice, and strong and varied opinions. That being said, I support the following candidates in the May 17, 2022 Primary Election as best representing me and my views and understanding of the correct governing principles and the cause of freedom.

Janice McGeachin for Governor

Dorothy Moon for Secretary of State

Bryan Smith for US House Disctrict 2

Scott Trotter for US Senate Idaho

Priscilla Giddings for Lieutenant Governor

Raul Labrador for Attorney General

Branden Durst for Superintendent of Public Instruction

Jeanie Hakes for Senate District 27

Douglas Pickett for House of Representatives District 27A

Pat Field for House of Representatives District 27B

Brian Jeppsen for Oneida County Commissioner

Andee Parry for Oneida County Commissioner

Please register and go vote. Respectfully, Larry Oja

In Support of Bob Christophersen

Dear Editor,

I support Bob Christophersen for Oneida county commissioner. A few of the reasons for this support include: Bob works 100% of the time for the commissioner’s office. Bob understands where Oneida county gets a lot of its funding, and with this knowledge with this knowledge will avoid having to raise taxes for Oneida county. Bob has also studied and understands what it will take to be a good commissioner by understanding essential needs for the citizens of Oneida county.

In Support of Andee Parry and Brian Jeppsen

Dear Editor,

In February of last year, a petition traveled around this county with a heading that read:

“We the People of Oneida County, Idaho request the Oneida County Commissioners to consider this petition to make Oneida County a Constitutional Rights Sanctuary. The Federal Government is increasingly making laws which restrict and infringe on our God Given Rights set forth in the Constitution of the united states of America. We request that our local elected representatives take a stand for the citizens of this county. The Constitutional Rights Sanctuary through the attached ordinance and resolution.”

The ordinance accompanying the petition was modeled after an ordinance passed by another county in another state and was significantly longer. The petition had great response. Hundreds of concerned citizens in Oneida County placed their signatures on it.

Harry Sherman, Brian Jeppsen and Larry Oja stood before the Commissioners to present supplications, and the proposed ordinance. Two Commissioner meetings were needed. At the first meeting, the Commissioners were presented with documents to review. The second meeting was primarily to discuss their decision. I attended both Commissioners meetings. The front page article of the March 11, 2021 newspaper summarized the negative reception by our Commissioners.

At the 2nd meeting, I witnessed a very defensive attitude portrayed by all 3 commissioners. “We as commissioners took an oath to support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of Idaho, just because we don’t sign this, these papers, this Ordinance and this Resolution, I don’t think it should be construed that we don’t believe in the Constitution at all...” they said. The request to make Oneida County a Constitutional Rights Sanctuary got dropped like a hot potato.

Because our Constitution was intended for a moral people (and immorality is rampant these days), I understand the Commissioners’ concern that legal and regulatory concerns could arise if they ever had to enforce an ordinance guaranteeing constitutional rights. I am not surprised that the ordinance was rejected. However, I am disappointed in our commissioners for their non-commitment to take any action. Concerned citizens came with a plea for protection and left feeling misunderstood, insulted and betrayed.

With all that has happened the past hundred years in the government of this country, we all should be concerned. Precautionary actions need to be taken to protect what God has given us. The request before the Commissioners, was an attempt to give a 2nd line of defense in protecting each person’s individual rights. We need assurances that our leaders are acting to protect our liberties.

Furthermore, at the same meeting, I witnessed the Peacekeeper group get targeted with opposition. Bob Christopherson went so far as to make accusations of not having accountability to the sheriff or commissioners and of having ulterior motives. I am not affiliated with the Peacekeeper group, but my principles do align with the things they are doing for this community. They are educating, assisting and organizing people. I have lost respect with the current Commissioners for not working with them.

Our Constitution literally hangs by just a thread. Every Constitutionally Guaranteed Right is under attack. Elections are being manipulated, so is the news. People are censored and restricted on Social media, lock downs occurred, rent payments have been canceled in parts of the country and private property is being turned over to government agencies. Temporarily, we were denied opportunity to assemble at church and people were arrested for not covering their face. Even in this state, parental rights have been taken away for stopping treatment for a sick child. These kinds of atrocities should alarm every citizen. What, as citizens, are we willing to do about it?

Swearing an oath should be enough, but needs to be accompanied by service and action. Officials who understand the proper role of government, will be driven to act in the interest of the people they serve, who elected them. A request signed by hundreds of concerned Oneida County Residents should have been handled more respectfully. Recording the petition or making an official proclamation are examples of actions that would have satisfied the request and relieved concerns about enforcing an ordinance.

I know Bob, Bill and Ken are good men who are doing their best in a very challenging job. I value them as friends and thank them for their service. Public officials take a lot of criticism, and I’ve given plenty in this letter. But, because of the times we live in, past experiences, and the examples in this letter, my faith goes to Andee Parry and Brian Jeppson as being the most qualified candidates. I know they will show empathy, listen, and they will act in the interest of the citizens of Oneida County. I have no doubts that they will fight passionately to keep our unalienable Rights, endowed by God, guaranteed by our Constitution. Win or lose, I commend them for running for the 2 County Commissioner seats.

Thank you for giving us a choice on the upcoming ballot!

Sincerely, Mary Young

In Support of Andee Parry and Brian Jeppsen

Dear Editor,

I have put the important responsibility of learning about the people that are representing me in government a side because I was busy, to trusting or too lazy to do the work to learn about them. I would like to ask some questions and share some thoughts. How many of you have actually gone and talked with a candidate and asked them questions about their thoughts on the constitution, bill of rights, sovereignty and laws that are passed in our county and state? Are you ok with accepting others regurgitation of information and the medias twist on the candidates? What about the loss of your liberties and rights?

On a local level all of our candidates are good people and friends, but at this time because of knowledge gained through study and personal experiences I will be voting for Andee Parry and Brian Jeppsen. They have done the work needed to educate themselves on the proper role of government, issues in our county and are prepared to stand up for and listen to the citizens of Malad. They have no agenda other than to support the people, their rights, and face issues this county will have as a courageous statesman.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the citizens of Oneida County. It has truly been an honor and a privilege to serve all of you in the Idaho Legislature. It is something we will never forget nor take for granted. As one of us has decided to retire and the other has been moved by redistricting, we wish to sincerely thank you for your support, your friendships and the experiences we have shared with you. The people of Oneida County represent the very best of our great state.

We would also like share with you our full endorsement of Senator Kelly Anthon. We have known Senator Anthon since his appointment to the Senate in the summer of 2015. Both of us have been impressed with his leadership qualities and his effectiveness as an Idaho Senator. We have watched him as he served his Legislative District with dignity and concern for his constituents. Because we have had the opportunity to serve with him, we know Senator Anthon as a man of his word – a quality he is known for in the Capitol and around the state.

Senator Anthon is a 7th generation Idahoan that comes from an agriculture background. He understands water issues and how important water is to our state, our farms, and our ranches. He understands the importance of private property rights, the importance of local government and the importance of small, effective government. Senator Anthon has been instrumental in some of the most recent and critical legislation resulting in the reduction of taxes and regulations affecting both businesses and families.

Senator Anthon understands the proper role of government. He drafted and sponsored important legislation during the pandemic dealing with emergency declarations; his efforts placed in Idaho statute an assurance that all Idahoans who work, pay taxes and provide for their families are declared “essential”, thus protecting families during times of declared emergencies. He is a fierce advocate of both the First and Second Amendments to our U.S. Constitution and takes his oath to both the Idaho and U.S. Constitution very seriously.

Senator Anthon’s leadership qualities have led him to be elected by his senate peers to serve as the Senate Majority Leader. This position will be a benefit to his constituents as he will have input in several critical and important pieces of legislation.

Senator Kelly Anthon is a smart, effective leader and someone who will represent Oneida County very well. He will be a strong advocate for the interests of Oneida County, agriculture, water rights, business, and small, effective government.

Senator Mark Harris Representative Marc Gibbs

In Support of Bob Christophersen

Dear Editor,

I am writing a letter of support for Bob Christophersen for re-election as Oneida County Commissioner. Not only is Bob up for the job, but he is the right man for the job. I have known bob for several years, and one thing that has always struck me is how much he loves Oneida County. Bob has such tremendous respect for our community, and that is why he has served in numerous roles. For example, Bob has served several terms on the Malad City Council and served as Vice President of the Deep Creek Irrigation Co. for over 30 years. bob has also served as a store manager for over 40 years, and he currently holds a position as an Oneida County Commissioner. As you can see, Bob is a man of service who has great leadership in which this county needs. Someone we need as a commissioner.

To me, the greatest trait about Bob is he is honest. He has always told me the truth, and when he promises to keep his word or get something accomplished, he has kept it. I am on old fashioned guy, and I have always gone by a handshake. When Bob has always shaken my hand, I know it will get done honestly and the right way. Another great trait that Bob possesses is he is always willing to listen. It doesn't matter what Bob is doing; if someone stops him to talk about a problem, Bob gives them his undivided attention and treats them with the same respects he gives me.

Bob has worked hard to make many improvements to our county. For example, Bob had helped purchase new road equipment such as a newer 10-wheeler dump truck that the road department desperately needed. Bob also led the fight in finishing the narrows road project as well completing our new, amazing County Events Center at the fairgrounds. Bob has worked hard and been a part of some amazing improvements for our county.

Bob is for the people of this community. I personally know other commissioners outside our county, and they have told me that they have the upmost respect for Bob. They have also told me when they are working on a regional project which includes our county, Bob takes great pride and works very hard to ensure regional projects are beneficial not just to that particular area, but to our county and citizens as well.

Like I said, not only is Bob up for the job, but he is the fight man for the job. bob has a lot of experience, is a proven leader, cares for our community and is just a great guy. I highly recommend Bob Christophersen for re-election as Oneida County Commissioner, and I encourage you all for find out just how qualified and what a great person Bob is. I know you will not be mistaken. Vote Bob!

Josh Blaisdell

In Support of Brian Jeppsen

Dear Editor,

Brian Jeppsen promises to serve District 3 as a trustworthy County Commissioner. He adheres to the Constitutions of the United States of America and the state of Idaho, is fiscally conservative, and listens to understand. He supports transparent accountability and promotes strength in unity.

A long-time resident of Malad, Brian raised his family here. He is an extremely valuable employee and takes an active role in the community, including participating in the Interfaith Council and the Oneida County Support Group.

Rumblings around town portray our patriotic group as a “militia.” This is blatantly untrue. The group is unofficially known as the “peacekeepers” and our purpose is primarily supportive. The local sheriff has approved us to function as a back-up in case of any extreme local emergency. Our main focus includes learning how to preserve our inalienable rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

I urge you to vote for Brian Jeppsen for County Commissioner for District 3—a true conservative and a true patriot.