WRW 22 March 2023

“The

HOLDING BACK THE WATER

Flood Preparations to Begin in Blaine County

By DANA DUGAN

Floods will happen. The Wood River Valley has been here before, most recently in 2017. If you live, work or recreate near the Big Wood River, you will be affected. Blaine County, and its cities, are beginning to gear up for the snow melt-off in the Wood River Valley.

“We’re ramping up discussions, responsibilities and things that will be available,” Chris Corwin, Disaster Services Coordinator for Blaine County, said. “By April 1, we should be ready to go. Usually, the flooding is by the end of April, but there are variables with the weather. Ideally, most people are already aware if they’re in the 100-year floodplain, or the 500-year plain.”

Those floodplains are in areas in which analysis has already been established but there’s a common misconception with the FEMA floodplain mapping. Most people believe these will happen every 100 years. But historically, the data now shows that floods of this magnitude occur every nine to 10 years. The degree of flooding remains uncertain.

“2006 was a big one with similarities; we didn’t peak until April 16, but it burned off pretty quickly,” Corwin said.

Burning off refers to thermodynamics, or the relation between heat, work, and internal energy.

“It’s a little early to tell,” Corwin said. “But if you look at SNOTEL sites and [weather] stations, we can compare the years. Colorado Gulch is a good barometer as a SNOTEL site. The most recent flooding was 2017. We’d already reached max snow at March 7. We’re very close to where we were then. Another storm and we’ll be at the same place. The big burn-off began April 16, and by May 1 we were having issues.”

Hailey City Administrator Lisa Horowitz said the city will host two upcoming community meetings to let the community know “what the city will be doing and, most importantly, what it will not be doing. We’ll spell that out clearly, what they can expect from us.

“It’s not the cities so much as what comes out of the mountains, which will happen later, although people have already had issues with the rain/snow events on the roads and driveways.”

Corwin said the usual areas will be affected.

“War Eagle (in the Della View subdivision area of Hailey) is always tricky because it’s so low down in there. But at this point it’s just snow. There’s a spot where when it funnels down and pushes to the left. Della View will have a lot of water. On warm days, there will be water on Highway 75. Since the ground is still frozen, the water can’t go anywhere. One of the biggest things to know is if your home is prone to flooding. If you can do it financially, there are giant bladders.”

In Carey, “There is some concern for the houses along the river channels along the Little Wood River,” says Corwin.

FEMA flood insurance is available, but homeowners must begin that process at least a month prior to expected flooding.

Blaine County Floodplain Manager Kristine Hilt is working with FEMA on a long-range plan to update flood areas based on aerial photography from past events.

“First and foremost, know your flood risk,” Hilt said. “There are so many resources like inundating mapping to see what areas are affected. It’s not live yet. But you can reach out to us (at the county) for that information. We also have aerial imagery from previous events in

2006 and 2017. Those are available and people can see where the river went. It’s very accurate.”

Hilt said there are several important factors home

owners can do now. One is understanding access to your property.

“Your house may be safe, but what about your drive

way or access for emergency services? What is the drainage around your neighborhood? People who live close to mountains will have snow coming off. Where will that water funnel into the neighborhoods?”

Hilt said that when the Big Wood floods, there can be a great deal of erosion, and river migration into certain neighborhoods.

“Second of all, call your insurance agents,” Hilt continued. “The FEMA flood program Risk Rating 2.0 is new in the past couple years. It’s a different approach to rating insurance policies. It doesn’t use flood zones as a rating factor. Instead, it uses distance from water, what kind of construction a house is, and other variables. This is a huge change.

“Know your regulations. Know where you can put sandbags and bladders. Get supplies ahead of time and be familiar with which people to call if there’s an issue, like Idaho Power and Intermountain Gas. If you’re at risk, store important documents, take photos or videos of items for insurance.”

Avalanches will also continue to be an issue. Only two weeks ago there were slides across the river, and up north across Highway 75, shutting it down north for several hours.

Sawtooth Avalanche Center issued this warning on their website: “Large, destructive, natural and human-triggered avalanches are almost certain to occur. Avoid all avalanche terrain. Stay off and out from below steep slopes—slopes steeper than about 30 degrees. Avalanches may be triggered remotely—from gentler terrain above, below, and to the sides of steep slopes.”

first day of spring is one thing, and the first spring day is another. The difference between them is sometimes as great as a month.”

– Henry Van Dyke

A street in Hailey is underwater on a recent warm day. Photo credit: Dana DuGan

Della Mountain, above the Big Wood River in west Hailey’s Della View Subdivision, is shown here on March 10 following a heavy, wet snowstorm that caused numerous slides in the various chutes on the east side of the mountain. Some brief flooding occurred in neighborhoods nearest the river when the slides blocked the river’s normal flow. Photo credit: Ryan Crofts

WRW STAFF

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CONTACT

Wood River Weekly

P.O. Box 3483 Hailey, Idaho 83333 (208) 788-4789 woodriverweekly.com

BLIMPY

Neutered Male 9 Months Old

Blimpy is the perfect small size to be portable and rugged enough for a good hike. He has made dog friends here at the shelter and, like many of us, appears more comfortable with pals near his size. Do you have room in your heart and home to show young Blimpy the way to a better life?

John Van Donge Managing Director/Investments jvd@stifel.com

Stifel is excited to welcome John Van Donge, Managing Director/Investments, to our Ketchum office. John joined Stifel in 2014 and had previously worked in our Santa Barbara office. He and his family have been part-time residents of Sun Valley for 10 years and have finally made Ketchum home.

John takes a holistic, deeply personalized approach to helping ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families as they endeavor to grow, mitigate risk to, and transfer their wealth. John may be reached via e-mail at jvd@stifel.com or by phone at (208) 622-8730.

111 N. Main, 3rd Floor, Suite B | P.O. Box 5389 | Ketchum, Idaho 83340 Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | Member SIPC & NYSE | www.stifel.com

Off-Leash Dogs Harass And Kill Wildlife

A Fish & Game appeal to citizens

BY HAYDEN SEDER

In February, two incidents were reported of off-leash dogs chasing deer, one in Bellevue and one in Hailey. In Hailey, the off-leash dog chased and killed a mule deer buck in Quiqley Canyon. In Bellevue’s Muldoon Canyon, two off-leash dogs repeatedly chased deer in deep snow. Both of these incidents were reported to Idaho Department of Fish and Game conservation officers, who then investigated the reports and issued infraction citations.

In Idaho, it is illegal for an unleashed dog to actively track, pursue, harass or kill a big game animal. In the case of the killed mule deer, IDFG Regional Communications Manager Terry Thompson reports that witness reports were confirmed by a Fish and Game officer who found the deer and had determined it died from injuries from the dog attack.

The Wood River Valley is something of a dog haven, and many dog owners allow their dogs to run around off-leash. But the area is also home to many species of wildlife that face many stresses, particularly in the winter months, such as snow depths, ongoing cold temperatures, and the encroachment of human populations on their natural habitat.

The area’s large resident deer and elk population grows during the winter months, with migration patterns putting wildlife in areas where residential encroachment now occurs. “Deer and elk come into town because towns are now encroaching onto their traditional winter range, which leads to potential conflicts between people and wildlife,” said Thompson.

While we all may want to recreate with our dogs, everyone needs to do their part by not allowing their unleashed dogs to stress or kill wintering wildlife.”

Cody Smith, Idaho Fish and Game Conservation Officer

Thompson explains that several other factors are increasing the likelihood of wildlife–pet encounters. One is the large population of resident deer and elk living in the Wood River Valley year-round that have lost their natural migration instincts between summer and winter ranges, which results in a growing number of animals staying in the Wood River Valley.

“There is also an unintended consequence of resident deer and elk in our communities—and that can be seen by the number of reports that we receive about mountain lions living in or near our communities,” said Thompson. “Predators will follow the food source—and when the food doesn’t migrate, the predators don’t have to migrate either.”

The solution is ultimately to keep your dog on-leash, even if you don’t suspect wildlife to be nearby. Fish and Game officials ask that all people keep their dogs under control, even friendly dogs whose instincts may kick in when wildlife is around.

“The key to reducing these conflicts is for people to keep their dogs on-leash,” said Thompson. “The common thread is typically dogs off-leash with many of the wildlife conflicts occurring throughout the state, and more locally in the Wood River and Magic Valley areas.”

While this is only to be used as a last resort, Idaho code does state that any dog allowed to run at large and chase or harass big game animals can be lethally removed by law enforcement officers.

Idaho Fish and Game Conservation Officer Cody Smith said, “While we all may want to recreate with our dogs, everyone needs to do their part by not allowing their unleashed dogs to stress or kill wintering wildlife.”

Nathan Welch, M.D.

Evan Allan, M.D.

Michael K. Taylor, M.D.

James M. Coombs, M.D.

Kyle N. Klingler, M.D.

Jeffery Stevens, M.D.

Jason T. Halverson, M.D.

A fawn with a compound leg fracture is comforted while waiting for Fish & Game. Photo Credit: WRW

SVSEF’s Finnigan Donley Brings Home 2023 U18 Nationals Overall Men’s Title

Ten members of the Sun Valley Ski Education Alpine FIS Team qualified to compete in the 2023 U18 Nationals in Mittersill, NH, March 9-16. The athletes competed in both speed and tech events including downhill, super G, giant slalom, and slalom. At the conclusion of the series, SVSEF’s Finnigan Donley was crowned Overall U18 Men’s Champion and on the women’s side, Paige DeHart brought home two top ten finishes in the nation including fifth on the podium in giant slalom and eighth in slalom.

Five men and five women made up the team that traveled east to compete against their strongest contemporaries across the country. Finnigan Donley, Kai Subith, Larson Overby, Max Meucci, and Sacha Stern-Pre filled the men’s SVSEF roster; while Maya Lightner, Madison Vieara-McCarthy, Natalie Gowe, Paige DeHart, and Ruby Crist qualified for the women.

“I had a great time at the U18 Nationals,” said Finnigan Donley, SVSEF FIS Team athlete and 2023 Overall U18 Men’s Champion. “National championship races are both mentally and physically challenging because there are four races in the span of four days. I am proud of my results throughout the week because I was able to stay at a high level from the first day to the last day!”

SVSEF FIS Coach Sue Schwartz accompanied the team to Mittersill for the race series. “I’m incredibly proud of these athletes for qualifying for U18 Nationals,” said Schwartz. “While seeing athletes reach the pinnacle of their sport and earn a title is exciting and rewarding, it’s not all about podiums and top fives. I’m proud of how they did, how they conducted themselves, of their performances on the hill, and of the consistent improvement we’re seeing in their skiing. They were awesome—they tried extremely hard and SVSEF was well-represented. Major kudos to all of our athletes.”

“This was my first trip to the east coast,” said Paige DeHart, SVSEF FIS team athlete. “It was a great trip and the racing conditions were excellent. Overall it was a successful race series for myself and SVSEF.”

On the first day of competition in the Women’s Downhill, Maya Lightner finished just off the podium in sixth place and Ruby Crist had a standout finish moving from her start position in 43rd to land in 16th place overall. Natalie Gowe finished in the top 30 in 28th place. In the Men’s Downhill, Finnigan Donley stood atop the podium, Kai Subith found his way to a top 15 in 11th place, and Max Meucci and Larson Overby finished just outside the top 30 in 31st and 32nd respectively.

Donley followed up with another win in the Men’s Super G and DeHart landed top 15 in 14th for the women in the Super G. Donley continued a strong series placing sixth in Men’s Giant Slalom with Subith just on his heels in 7th place. DeHart stood on the podium in fifth for the women in Giant Slalom. Donley raced to his third podium of the series in the Men’s Slalom, placing third. DeHart again had the top finish for the women earning a top-ten in 8th place for the Women’s Slalom.

Of the team that traveled to U18 Nationals, five SVSEF FIS Team athletes have also qualified for the upcoming 2023 U.S. Alpine National Championships in Sun Valley. In preparation for racing on the big stage, Finnigan Donley and Kai Subith will travel to Minnesota to compete in the Northern Michigan University Lutsen Spring Series, March 23-26, Paige DeHart and Madison Vieara-McCarthy will head to Montana to compete in the giant slalom at the Western Region FIS Open at Big Sky, March 30-31, and Maya Lightner will resume training in preparation for the U.S. Alpine Nationals, April 2-5.

Sun Valley Icon Needs Help

For over four decades, Joe Fos played the piano at the Sun Valley Resort. Despite his cancer diagnosis three years ago, Joe continued to play the piano in the Duchin Lounge. Joe and his wife Patricia are now struggling financially as their savings and retirement accounts have been depleted to pay for cancer treatments. Please consider a donation to help out this Sun Valley icon.

To view the GoFundMe, please visit: https://gf.me/v/c/m4l5/joe-fos-the-pianoman

Wood River Valley Citizens Committee Forms to Support Ballot Measures for Housing and Air

A Wood River Valley Citizens Committee (WRVCC) has formed to advocate for the passage of the Yes for Housing and Air ballot measures in Sun Valley, Ketchum and Hailey, all of which call for renewing the existing 1% for Air Local Option Tax and reallocating the proceeds to 0.5% for workforce housing and 0.5% for air service support. The vote will take place May 16, 2023, with early voting starting May 1. Sixty percent of registered voters must vote YES for the measures to pass.

The WRVCC is headed up by three longtime local residents: Paddy McIlvoy of Hailey, Calista Carter of Ketchum and Lisa Stelck of Sun Valley. They are joined by a group of 10 other community members, from each of the three cities, who will be helping advocate for the Yes for Housing and Air ballot measures. Other WRVCC members include Susan Giannettino, Rick Kapala, Kathryn Graves, Jenni Rangel, Joan Davies, Dave Luhr, Alan Stevenson, Baird Gourlay, Barb Figge and Rachel Wolfe.

The WRVCC is committed to working hard to pass the ballot measures in Hailey, Ketchum and Sun Valley. If approved by voters, these measures will extend the current 1% for Air Local Option Tax for another five years in Ketchum and Sun Valley and extend it until 2050 in Hailey. It will also split the tax revenue equally between initiatives that bolster workforce housing and maintain air service. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up at yesforhousingandair.info/volunteer.

The Amazing World of Native Bees

Hailey Public Library will buzz into spring with a free talk about ‘The Amazing World of Native Bees’ with educator and forester Linda Ries on Thursday, March 23, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Town Center West. The talk is co-sponsored by the Wood River Chapter of the Idaho Native Plant Society.

“Native bees are the primary pollinator or significantly supplement honeybees for agricultural crops,” commented Kristin Fletcher, the library’s programs and engagement manager, “However, these fascinating creatures are in decline all over the United States as a result of loss of habitat, toxins and disease. The good news is that there’s much we can do to help them out. But first we need to learn more about the unique natural history and lifestyle of the species who live here.”

Ries will teach participants how to identify local native bees, explore their life c ycles and gain tips on how to encourage these bees to thrive and survive in our backyards. The talk will focus on bumble bees, mason bees, and leaf-cutter bees as well as other native bees and how they are different from imported honeybees. Ries will discuss which bees pollinate local fruit trees and vegetables and examine the increasing threats from pesticides and poor cultural practices.

Linda Ries has a B.S. in Forest Biology from Colorado State University and worked for over 20 years as a U.S. Forest Service forester and conservation Eeucator. She helped establish the Hailey Native Plant Arboretum in 1996 and has served on the City of Hailey Tree Committee since 2016. She was the Project Learning Tree coordinator for South Dakota and also served as Blaine County 4-H leader for Entomology, Geology and Forestry. She had been a lover of insects since she was a little girl. Hailey Town Center West is located across from the library at 116 S. River Street in Hailey. For more information, contact the library at (208) 788-2036 or visit www. haileypubliclibrary.org.

Joe Fos

Photo credit: Tanner Smida, accessed via Wikipedia

RETHINKING BACKUP OFFERS

BY ANNA & MICHELLE

As with any professional, there are tools and techniques available to help with particular situations. They might be more popular at certain times and might even be put aside or forgotten at others. For real estate professionals, one of those is the backup offer.

In a situation where there are multiple offers, the seller can accept any offer for whatever reasons are important to them, leaving the makers of the other offers disappointed. There is always some uncertainty that the buyers on a contract will close accordingly. To hedge on that possibility, the seller may choose to make a counteroffer to one or more of the other offers to be a backup should the primary contract not close.

From a buyer’s perspective, the purpose of a backup offer is to be next in line to have the chance to purchase the property should the first contract fall through. The benefit is that you’ll be next in line to purchase the home without having to submit another offer and, possibly, get into a bidding war. It simply moves from the first backup to the primary contract position.

The buyer in the backup position also experiences uncertainty if it will work and, possibly, feeling like they could be wasting their time while waiting to hear the outcome of the first contract. Some of these buyers will continue to look at homes in the likelihood that another acceptable or better property becomes available. Should this situation occur, the buyer in the backup position may or may not have the ability to withdraw from their contract. It will depend on how the agreement is written. It is important to understand the rights and limitations, as well as when they can be exercised.

A backup offer can lock you into a binding contract until the primary contract’s buyer is approved and closed or until it fails to close and the backup buyer becomes the primary. The backup may or may not have a unilateral way to withdraw the offer prior to one of these outcomes.

Considerations that need to be understood by sellers and buyers alike are:

• Can a buyer in a backup contract unilaterally withdraw at any time?

• Will the earnest money be deposited on a backup offer?

• Will the timelines for contingencies like mortgage or inspections need to be made before becoming the primary contract?

• Will there be any fees incurred by the backup buyer?

Sellers sometimes use a backup offer to apply leverage to the primary contract’s buyer. For instance, if the seller feels the buyers’ demands on repairs are too high, the seller might say something like “if you’re not willing to accept it ‘as is’, I have another buyer waiting to do so.”

Many buyers, as well as their agents, don’t want to obligate themselves to a backup offer. However, in certain situations, it is a good tool to have the opportunity to purchase a home that meets their needs.

In the highly competitive market experienced in 2021 and part of 2022, some buyers may have been reluctant to use a backup because of the slim possibility that it would become the primary. With the shift in the market due to the interest rate increases, a backup offer could be a viable tool to get the home of your dreams.

Your real estate professional can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of backup ofRecognizing that contracts are legal and binding agreements, you can also consult an attorney who can

By Monica Carrillo

Presented by

Hispanic Latin America Consortium and The Crisis Hotline

OUR VOICE COUNTS

“As the grandson of both the legendary civil rights activist, César Chávez, and the Cuban revolutionary, Max Lesnik, Eduardo Chávez is the scion of two revolutionary families. Eduardo’s political and activist background influenced his feature documentary, “Hailing César,” released April 2018. Since its debut, Eduardo has screened “Hailing César” and spoken at 50-plus universities in three different countries.

In addition to being a director, speaker and activist, Eduardo is the co-founder of Latindia Studios and a member of the Speakers’ Board for the Chávez Institute for Law and Social Justice. Eduardo is also the host of the podcast We Are Latinx. Launched this year, he interviews Latinx individuals about their work and how their culture shapes it. It is now streaming on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.”

On March 30 and 31, Eduardo Chávez will be showcasing his film to different schools in honor of César Chávez Day.

Eduardo Chávez, grandson of César Chávez, will be showing his powerful film, “Hailing César,” to Wood River students throughout Blaine County.

Chávez came to the Wood River Valley in March 2021 in person, and virtually, although it was a limited experience due to COVID.

“We are excited that he is coming back in person with a greater audience to share how he is continuing Chávez’s legacy,” said Herbert Romero, community organizer in the Wood River Valley. “Please join us at The Community Library in Ketchum for a lecture and at the Community Campus in Hailey to see the film.”

Chávez will be at the following schools: Sun Valley Community School from 10:30–11:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 30; Wood River Middle School from 8:30–10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 31; Wood River High School at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 31; and Silver Creek High School at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, March 31.

His film will be showcased at The Community Library on Thursday at 6 p.m. and at the Community Campus on Friday at 6 p.m.

NUESTRA VOZ CUENTA

“Como nieto del legendario activista por los derechos civiles César Chávez y del revolucionario cubano Max Lesnik, Eduardo Chávez es el vástago de dos familias revolucionarias. Los antecedentes políticos y activistas de Eduardo influyeron en su largometraje documental, “Hailing César,” publicado el 2018 de abril. Desde su debut, Eduardo ha proyectado aclamando a César y ha hablado en 50 universidades en tres países diferentes. Además de ser director, orador y activista, Eduardo es cofundador de Latindia Studios y miembro de la Junta de Oradores del Instituto Chávez de Derecho y Justicia Social. Eduardo es también el anfitrión del podcast We Are Latinx. Lanzado este año, entrevista a individuos latinos sobre su trabajo y cómo su cultura lo moldea. Ahora está transmitiendo en Spotify y Apple Podcasts.”

El 30 y 31 de marzo, Eduardo Chávez exhibirá su película en diferentes escuelas en honor al día de César Chávez.

Eduardo Chávez, nieto de César Chávez, mostrará su poderosa película “Hailing Cesar” a estudiantes de Wood River en todo el condado de Blaine.

Chávez llegó al Wood River Valley en marzo de 2021 en persona y virtualmente, aunque fue una experiencia limitada debido al COVID.

“Estamos entusiasmados de que regrese en persona con una mayor audiencia para compartir cómo continúa el legado de Chávez,” dijo Herbert Romero, organizador comunitario del valle. “Por favor, únase a nosotros en la Biblioteca Comunitaria para una conferencia y en el Campus Comunitario para ver la película.”

Chávez asistirá a las siguientes escuelas: Sun Valley Community School a las 10:30–11:30 a.m. el jueves 30 de marzo; Wood River Middle School a las 8:30–10:30 a.m. el viernes 31 de marzo; Wood River High School a la 1 p.m. Viernes, 31 de marzo; Silver Creek High School a las 2:30 p.m. Viernes, 31 de marzo.

Su película será exhibida en la Community Library el jueves a las 6 p.m. y el Community Campus a las 6 p.m. el viernes.

March madness on our local waters is winding down. Most of our fisheries close at the end of this month, so there’s still a bit of time left to enjoy some great fishing.

On Silver Creek, fishing remains open on Kilpatrick Pond and downstream of the Highway 20 Bridge. Now is the time to fish big streamers to predatory brown trout, and swing dark leeches for the Creek’s resident rainbows and browns. There has been good midge and BWO on select days, so it can be helpful to carry two rigs — one for streamers and one for dries. There have been some very large trout caught on Silver Creek lately!

On the Big Wood River, midge activity will be most prevalent in the afternoons. Keep your eye out for foam lines, eddies, and slow current seams, as the tiny midges will be concentrated in these areas. Feeding rainbow trout can be fooled with long, light leaders and your favorite midge patterns in size 20 – 24. Trailing Shuck Midges, Griffiths Gnats and Parachute Adams are all effective imitations. There may be some sporadic BWO activity as well, so be prepared with some imitations in size 18 – 22. When there is little or no surface feeding activity, nymphing can be extremely productive. A two-fly rig consisting of a larger attractor pattern, such as a Rubber Legs, Girdle Bug or Copper John, followed by a small Zebra Midge or Brassie, is the way to go.

There are a limited number of days to fish our tail-waters right now. The South Fork of the Boise will be closed at the end of March, so if you want to get your casts in down there, you better go soon! The Lower Big Lost River is going to be limited as well, and while it does remain open year-round, we can expect flows to increase during the month of April. All the same flies and techniques you use on the Big Wood will work just fine on the South Fork and the Big Lost; both of these waters can see excellent spring Blue Winged Olive hatches. Keep an eye out on weather conditions and river flows, as this time of year conditions can change rapidly. Idaho river levels can be found on the USGS website.

Happy fishing, everyone!

COMMENTARY

NO BONES ABOUT IT FRAN JEWELL

The Lassie Pill

By Fran Jewell

So, you thought this week’s article would be about dog training? Well, in essence it is, but I am sharing with you a personal experience to help reveal what it’s all about.

A few years ago my favorite little character, Kalidor, and I traveled to Hamilton, Mont., to perform before an AKC judge the AKC Tracking Dog test to earn his certification that would allow him to compete in AKC tracking performance events. In the glory of rolling, grass-covered pastures under black dramatic skies and high winds and drizzle, Kalidor shined in all his glory, tracking a “person” to the finish — a dark cotton glove with cut-off fingers hidden in the deep grass. Had he not followed the correct pathway of hidden footsteps and found that inconspicuous glove, he would not have passed the certification.

As many of you know, I started tracking Kalidor when he was but nine weeks old, imprinting him with looking for scent on the ground that followed footsteps of a specific person in any direction. That was over six years ago! Kalidor began his man-tracking career the minute he came home to me.

Learning to search for scent on the ground, finding every footstep someone makes, is a painstaking process. We started with a short “track” about 25 feet long with every closely laid footstep filled with food. As Kalidor learned to connect food with the scent of a person, I gradually took food out of the footsteps. First, there would be food in every three or four footsteps, and then increased to 10 to 15 footsteps, and so on, until eventually he no longer needed any food in the footsteps at all. Then we changed the people he was looking for.

SCIENCE OF PLACE

Eventually, Kalidor would find food at an article left behind by the person he was tracking. Articles can be gloves, a wallet, cellphone, or any object someone might typically carry with them on a walk. At each article, Kalidor learned to “indicate” that he found an article. His indication was to lie down at the article and wait for me to approach him. When I approached, he would earn a VERY yummy reward for staying down until his command to track was given again.

After months of practicing and gradually increasing the difficulty in the track, with less and less food, more difficult terrain (everything we could think of — dry, wet, snow, long grass, short grass, dirt, pavement, etc. — I added distractions like barking dogs, horses, wild animal scat, strong winds that blew the scent away, and time making the scent less and less on the footprints. This is called “proofing.”

Essentially, it took us 18 months of training to get to this point where Kalidor could successfully perform the requirements of his certification. Now, Kalidor is a seasoned tracking dog with honored AKC tracking titles behind his name.

Driving home the point of this article, training, ANY training, is not something that happens in four lessons, or one class, or even in two or three months. EVERYTHING you do with your dog is training and can be contributing to a healthy relationship if it is done with thoughtfulness and intention. You don’t have to have a competitive dog to have a great dog. It takes TIME, COMMITMENT, CONSISTENCY and a behavior GOAL in order to have the dog YOU want to live with. There is no such thing as a Lassie pill. Nothing is instant. Dog training is not like a drive-thru fast food service. If there was, I wish I had invented it!!! If you don’t

have the time or desire to train your dog, a cat might be better suited to your lifestyle!

The second point of this article is to update so many people that ask me weekly how Kalidor is doing. He is now EIGHT years old, one FANTASTIC dog and a joy to live with. He is the teacher to so many puppies about what leadership is, in a firm, fair, and compassionate way. I use him so often as a demo dog with my client dogs.

Fran Jewell is an IAABC Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, NADOI Certified Instructor and the owner of Positive Puppy Dog Training, LLC in Sun Valley. For more information, visit positivepuppy.com or call 208-578-1565.

LARRY BARNES

MAGPIE MAGNIFICENCE

BY LARRY BARNES

After a former colleague assigned a bird observation study to his students, a girl came to him with some exciting news.

“Mr. Miller, I saw an amazing bird! It was fairly big, with a really long tail. It was bold, black and white and the black parts even shined blue and green. It was beautiful. What was it!?”

“Have you ever seen this bird before?” asked Mr. Miller.

“Oh, no, never.”

“And how long have you lived here in the Wood River Valley?” asked Mr. Miller.

“My whole life, all 15 years!” said the girl.

Perhaps we all saw the black-billed magpie this way upon first encountering one. But then magpies became part of the background; maybe they committed some sin like teasing the cat, eating the dog food, or noisily following their parents while begging for food. When we first saw them, magpies were new, but they kept showing up and lost their shine. The honeymoon period of awe and wonder that the young student shared with Mr. Miller often fades. This former student is now over 40 and probably no longer breathlessly relates the magnificence of magpies to those she meets.

In pre-Columbian times magpies were likely quite rare in the Wood River Valley, for they were adapted to living in association with bison, which were not locally common. Between about 1820 and 1880 we market-hunted a population of around 30-40 million (or more) bison to the verge of extinction and magpies made a shift. We transformed the land with horses, cattle, sheep, and agriculture ,but the magpie niche was flexible enough that they could settle in amongst us, entangled within the tendrils of the expanding human horde.

Today, black-billed magpies are a bird of the West Central Plains, the Intermountain West, and up to southern Alaska, but not the western parts of California, Oregon, and Washington. Their close cousin, the yellow-billed magpie, is restricted to Central California, which it never leaves, and the Sierra mountains keep the two species apart.

Now in March, magpie pairs are busy with their nests, beach-ballsized domed assemblages of sticks, usually high in a tree. The female incubates her ~6 eggs for about 18 days and the nestlings grow for 3-4 weeks before flying. If you see a group of magpies foraging together in the spring that you suspect to be a family, look at their tails.

If all but two have short tails, they are a family.

We are proud of our large brains and therefore often take partic

ular interest in other comparatively brainy creatures. The jays, ravens, crows, and magpies belong to a bird family of fellow brainiacs and studies routinely reveal new intellectual powers among them. Magpies cache food in hiding places, but know if someone might be watching and will take measures to trick their nosy neighbors. If humans are involved in some kind of terrifying magpie study involving repeated weighing of chicks, for example, the magpies will learn to recognize these enemies by their faces, mobbing them with fury, even if far from their nest, while ignoring innocent humans. They’ve even been known to move their precious eggs to a new, safer location.

Magpies are monogamous, and we fancy having that in common with them, too. But they can be “obnoxious,” whatever that means, and they have egregiously become common among us. But none of this changes the awe and wonder felt by those who see them for the first time — when they see black-billed magpies as they truly are.

Larry Barnes retired from 26 years as a biology teacher at Wood River High School and is now transitioning to spending more time exploring the natural world.

THE “WEEKLY” FISHING REPORT FOR MARCH 22 - APRIL 4 FROM PICABO ANGLER

Here’s to training my new puppy, Steel, to be a great dog! “A dog is a reflection of his master” Max von Stephanitz. Photo credit: Fran Jewell

A black-billed magpie inspiring awe in the unjaded among us. Photo by L arry Barnes

DON’T FIGHT THE FED

By Kristin Hovencamp, CPWA®

As we approach the end of the first quarter, Wall Street and Main Street sense an imminent recession. Market sentiment indicates the Federal Open Market Committee will raise interest rates by .25 percentage points at least two more times this year. The Fed’s words and actions demonstrate a commitment to cooling down the economy. However, we are beginning to see the fallout from hiking interest rates. While the U.S. government manages efforts to stabilize the banking sector, the Federal Reserve (the Fed) remains concerned with the following:

The federal-funds rate – The fed-funds interest rate is what banks charge each other for overnight lending to meet reserve requirements. This benchmark interest rate impacts how much it costs consumers to borrow and how much they get paid to save.

Inflation target – Interest rates are the Fed’s primary tool to thwart inflation. The Central Bank can move to moderately or aggressively hike interest rates (in a dovish or hawkish manner, respectively). The Fed aims to slow down demand and ease inflation by raising rates and make borrowing money more expensive. A healthy economy typically generates inflation of about 2% annually.

Soft landing – By taking a more aggressive stance and slowing the economy, the Fed is attempting to bring down inflation without causing a recession and the resulting layoffs that typically accompany periods of negative GDP.

Unemployment – T he Fed has a “dual mandate” of maximum employment and price stability. Chairman Jerome Powell stated he would be comfortable with a 4% unemployment rate, as lower inflation is necessary to balance labor supply and demand to sustain a strong U.S. economy.

Persistent inflation and recessionary fears have created significant market instability. But how much further is the Fed willing to raise interest rates to combat inflation? That remains to be seen. With escalating concerns about how markets will react to the Fed’s mandate, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve and the U.S. banking sector.

Kristin Hovencamp is an Investment Executive at RJFS, and Director of Business Development with HAZLETT WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC, which is independent of Raymond James and is not a registered broker/dealer. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal amount invested. No investing strategy, including rebalancing or dollar cost averaging, can guarantee your objectives will be met. 675 Sun Valley Road, Suite J1 + J2 Ketchum, Idaho 83340 208.726.0605. HazlettWealthManagement.com

Composure, Compassion, Congeniality

BY JOELLEN COLLINS

If we were at a large airport and noted a rather elderly lady with white hair, a carry-on, a sling and a cane, though not seriously incapacitated, most of us would ask if she needed help. During my recent trip to California, I may have been that woman who was flustered after waiting seven hours with delays, then cancellation, then a long line for rebooking. My previously scheduled two-hour flight to SUN instead developed into two days and three planes, but I am not angry at the airline. Traveling often entails some problems. I’m glad we didn’t take off in the middle of a severe windstorm.

Indeed, during this time many people offered me chairs or a strong hand. One highlight surfaced after hours awaiting baggage at the claims department. At one point, when a man a tad out of line tried to wiggle into my space, the gentleman already waiting in front of me turned around to me and said, “Please go before me.” Kindness personified.

Then there were the times I had spent while in San Francisco as a passenger with uniformly friendly and considerate Uber drivers from all over the world, of mixed races, genders, and ages. Most were surprisingly talkative when I asked, “How are you?” and occasionally we had conversations. My last driver, who was named Vladimir (I smiled because I would easily remember that name), mentioned that his daughter was about to complete a master’s degree at U.C. Davis, so I could congratulate him and his family on their success. Another driver, a young woman from Portugal, drove back after she dropped me off, worried when she saw me waiting at my destination.

Other goodwill evidence: My guest house hosts cooked their lavish breakfasts for me with lactose-free ingredients without any qualms or irritation. My grandson (young gentleman) took my hand wherever we walked because he didn’t want me to fall. Before I could move back into my condo, friends let me stay with them for two nights and cooked fabulous meals. I picked up my dog from dogsitters who adored her as if she were their own. The day after returning, I was parked at St. Luke’s parking area and struggling to get a large clump of ice off my car’s hood, when a man nearby insisted on finishing the job. A nd then I saw the best doctor ever, another reminder of our caring helpers. And then, as I was emptying a heavy suitcase from my car, a neighbor voluntarily helped me unload my baggage and other goodies and take them to my door.

I am currently making serious decisions about the rest of my life.

Whatever befalls, I will remember the kindness of strangers, and I am blessed with loving family here and in SF, lifelong friends to hug. I also know there will be good people around me, and I will make new friends.

I hope always to keep MY sense of consideration for others — to pay it back.

WRANGLER’S RECKLESS WRITINGSBRYCE ANGELL

WATER TROUGH

BY DOVE

If I could gift you with anything, it would be the gift of deep faith. At this time on the planet, faith that we are in the right place at the right time is so important, it brings us peace. Are we holding the most uplifting thoughts we can feel? As our world shifts, are we trying to hold on to what was, or do we trust our own inner guidance (source) that we will be guided for our best and highest good? That is my question for today.

Where does that trust and faith come from? How do you sustain it in the most uncertain of moments? When I was in my early twenties, a friend explained to me that all you need is shelter, some clothing, and enough food to eat. All the rest is luxury. When you think of it like that, you can embrace all that you have that is so much more.

I started focusing on all that I had that was so much more, and from that place of faith and trust, so much more evolved. If I choose to be in fear, I cancel out all the good energy created by my faith. So, I trust. My focus is what can I do to make this a better place for all living things? Can I do more than I already am?

I constantly ask God (source) to make me aware of where I can be of service. What is amazing is God (source) constantly takes care of me. As an example, my new young neighbors refused to allow my 80-year-old husband to crawl up on the roof to assess the snow. They watch out for us. I do my best to help them. If we have not cleared our driveway by a certain time of day, they check to see if we need help. How blessed we are!!!

Again, it goes back to trusting. God will always give you back ten times ten the energy you put out. So, it is important to be aware of the energy you are holding.

When I was little and going to Sunday School, I always wondered what we had done that was so bad that God didn’t talk to us anymore like he did in the Bible. I came to discover I had to spend as much time talking, not praying for things, just talking to God (source) as if he/she were my best friend. Source is my best friend and the only place I need to connect is within.

It took many years before I was able to hear what God was saying to me. You have to get really quiet to hear the voice, as there is no pressure to listen, but the greatest gift you can give yourself is to know that there is an aspect of you that is totally connected to that source and you are loved deeply. Trust that love, seek it with all your heart, and fear has no place to anchor its energy.

I would give you the gift of faith, today and always, because it does set you free. Blessings on your journey. Dove

We drove into the desert campsite, just about midday. Then read the sorry sign that said, “The Creek a mile away.”

Ten gallons every day would be a thirsty horse’s style. We had to find some water that was closer than a mile.

We love our mountain water, yet we pay it never mind. But here the desert water is a gold mine of its kind.

We asked the Anhders brothers if they’d find a water source. They shoveled down a sandwich, then each climbed up on their horse.

“It’s water, boys, we’re needing. These old ponies wanna drink. We can even dig a hole down if you find a water sink.”

The brothers turned and set the horses at an easy lope. Then whirled and came back running. Was it too danged soon to hope?

I heard one say, “There’s water just a hundred yards away. A water trough for cattle, this could be our lucky day.”

We led the thirsty horses over to the water tank. And I watched with guilty conscience as the water level sank.

The horses tanked the water down. We should have stopped to think. One cowboy said, “We’re stealin’. We could end up in the clink!”

We ain’t the brightest fellows. Would the rancher make a noise? Do cowboys have an honor code? “We’ll blame the Anhders boys.”

Kenny was the youngest. We said, “You’re looking mighty pale. You really needn’t worry. We’ll come visit you in jail.”

The night air found us ’round the fire. A water truck drove in. The driver stepped on out and he was tall and lizard thin.

I’d seen his look a thousand times. Just itchin’ for a fight. So, we offered him some steak and spuds with hopes to make things right.

He gobbled down the taters, then his scowl turned to a smile. He said, “I’ll bring you water if you’ll feed me for a while.”

It sounded like a deal to me, sure got us off the hook. The Anhders boys were smiling. Kenny lost his panicked look.

And when I start to think about the doggone water trough. I reckon we were lucky, didn’t get our butts shot off.

Bryce Angell

Bryce Angell - The outdoors has always been a large part of my life. My father was an outfitter and guide for 35 years and I was there to shoe and care for the horses and help him do the cooking. We took many great trips into the Yellowstone area. Even now that I’m older, we still ride into the Tetons, Yellowstone and surrounding areas. My poems are mostly of personal experience. I am now retired and enjoying life to the fullest. I plan to do more riding and writing.

Kristin Hovencamp, CPWA®, is an Investment Executive and Director of Business Development with HAZLETT WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC.

JoEllen Collins—a longtime resident of the Wood River Valley— is an Idaho Press Club award-winning columnist, a teacher, writer, fabric artist, choir member and unabashedly proud grandma known as “Bibi Jo.”

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