WRW 21 October 2020

BELLEVUE NEWS

COVID NEWS

Marshal Arrested Over Marijuana PG 2 & 4 SUN VALLEY

KETCHUM

FAIRFIELD NEWS

Hospital Sounds The Alarm PG 5

HAILEY

Airport Battle At Soldier Field PG 6

BELLEVUE

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WOOD RIVER WEEKLY YOUR VOICE IN THE WOOD RIVER VALLEY

Free | Oct 21 - Nov 3, 2020 | Vol. 1 - No. 24 | woodriverweekly.com

“ L e a d e r s h i p a n d l e a r n i n g a r e i n d i s p e n s a b l e t o e a c h o t h e r. ” ~ J o h n F. K e n n e d y

Bellevue resident Rob Marcroft is shown from the perspective of a drone as he gazes up at a fluttering American flag out Muldoon Canyon. Photo credit: Rob Marcroft

GREENBERG OFFERED FOR US TO PAY UP TO 37% MORE IN OUR IDAHO POWER BILLS FOR THEIR PROJECT. I don’t agree.

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I have a track record of getting Idaho Power to sharply change direction.

KIKI TIDWELL Blaine County Commissioner Candidate www.tidwellcommissionercampaign.com • twitter: @kikitidwell

Paid for by Citizens For Kiki Tidwell, Cynthia Mann Treasurer

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Wood River Weekly

NEWS

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October 21 - November 3, 2020

Marshaling In The Marijuana Debate

BELLEVUE

Drug arrest is stoking questions about hemp, marijuana legalization

I

By Eric Valentine

f Bellevue Marshal William “Ross” Scaggs delivered a marijuana product in three Idaho-bordering states, he’d be called a friend. But since he did it in the Gem State, he’s being called a felon—allegedly, of course.

Scaggs was arrested Oct. 13 on felony possession of marijuana with intent to deliver, following a tip alledging Bellevue’s lead law enforcement officer delivered a marijuana product while on duty and an investigation carried out by the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office and Prosecutor’s Office.

“As an agency, we are shocked and horrified by the charges. The absolute breach of the public trust that has taken place is atrocious to us. As a department, we will be working to repair the trust and respect for the citizens. Ross Scaggs has been placed on administrative leave. Assistant Chief Mynde Heil is the Interim marshal. As a department, we are cooperating with the appropriate agencies,” a public statement by the Bellevue Marshal’s Office said.

The disparity between marijuana laws across the country and the general popularity of Scaggs, who was unanimously appointed as head marshal by the Bellevue City Council in 2017, has some folks asking if it’s time to take a hard look at Idaho law when it comes to hemp and marijuana. However, the tenuous relationship, in general right now, between law enforcement and regular citizens also has people reeling from what they describe as the hypocrisy of it all. A recent post over the Scaggs arrest in a local Facebook group garnered 137 comments and counting in recent days. And opinions are all over the map, as varied as marijuana laws from state to state.

A comment by Valley resident Mattie Mead managed to summarize both ends of the opinion spectrum.

“What perturbs me more than the fact that a Bellevue (marshal) was in possession of marijuana, is the question of how many folks have been arrested and subsequently prosecuted for possession of marijuana under Officer (Scaggs’) leadership as well as directly by Officer Scaggs. Perhaps a good place to begin rebuilding public trust would be to investigate who has been prosecuted or who is awaiting trial for minor marijuana offenses and nullify those offenses.”

It’s the economy, stupid The general consensus, even in the national perspective, is that if Idaho ever legalizes marijuana, it’s not going to be happening anytime soon. Some pundits point to the conservative and Mormon influence on politics here. But that doesn’t mesh with the fact that the state of Utah, the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is one of 15 U.S. states that has legalized medical marijuana. And neighboring Montana, which is firmly-in-the-red (politically), also has legalized marijuana for medicinal purposes.

Incidentally, the legalization of at least hemp is now being talked about in election debates. At a recent event where incumbent State Senator Michelle Stennett squared off with Eric Parker, the challenger expressed his dismay about Idaho’s hemp laws. le government access and for second Parkerpublic promoted the need a bill amendment. at the state level that would allow for hemp to become a viable industry in Idaho.

“It drives me nuts we can’t get a hemp bill in an ag state,” Parker said.

Parker’s idea is not unprecedented. Late last year, the Idaho Statesman newspaper

William “Ross” Scaggs (center) during some happier days with the Bellevue Marshal’s Office.

Photo credit: Bellevue Marshal’s Office

penned an editorial calling for the state Legislature to take up the issue after three separate truck drivers were arrested for transporting hemp through Idaho. State law doesn’t differentiate between marijuana and hemp, so in the state machine’s eyes, anything containing THC is a felony.

All three drivers, ultimately, were allowed by the court to reduce their charge and avoid harsh sentencing.

“Now it’s the Legislature’s turn to exercise some good judgment,” the Statesman editorial said.

The 411 on the 420 The data on legalized marijuana and crime rates is a mixed bag. And, although much of the data shows crime rate reductions, it’s easy to cherry pick statistics and to inadvertently compare apples to oranges. Perhaps the most difficult part of the data collection is that crimes are not clean. That is, if someone commits a crime while on marijuana but was also drinking alcohol, was it a factor at all in that crime? Sans alContinued MARSHAL Page 4

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Wood River Weekly

WRW STAFF PUBLISHER Christopher Seldon (208) 788-4789 publisher@woodriverweekly.com

• October 21 - November 3, 2020

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MARKETING & SALES Mandi Iverson (208) 721-7588 mandi@woodriverweekly.com NEWS EDITOR Eric Valentine news@woodriverweekly.com ARTS & EVENTS, SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Dana DuGan dana@woodriverweekly.com COPY EDITOR Patty Healey PRODUCTION & DESIGN Mandi Iverson mandi@woodriverweekly.com Christopher Seldon chris@woodriverweekly.com

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE Dear Valley residents, As we move along in 2020, Wood River Weekly will continue to publish every second week, with a target of going back to our regular weekly schedule when the economic and pandemic environment improves.

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October 21 - November 3, 2020

NEWS

BELLEVUE

The Disjointed States of America. Image credit: DISA Global Solutions

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Bellevue Marshal Continued from Page 2

cohol, one may even hear the old joke: A bunch of guys drinking too much alcohol is one step away from becoming a violent gang fight; a bunch of guys smoking too much pot is one step away from becoming a video game night.

So, a better way to determine the impact of illegal marijuana is to calculate how much time and money is spent prosecuting and punishing its use, compared to so-called harder drugs that large portions of the population are not clamoring for them being legalized, such as methamphetamine.

A report by the Idaho State Police and the Idaho Statistical Analysis Center shows that between the years 2006 and 2013, 38,845 cases involving marijuana were started in the state. For meth, that number is only 12,440. But what does that mean? For one thing, it means marijuana is far more widespread, for better or worse. It also means that resources, from law enforcement to the courts, the jails and the prisons, get impacted moreso by a drug some states have recognized as medicinal, at best, and like having a couple glasses of wine, at worst, than a drug that is illegal in every single state in America.

dlevans.com

William “Ross” Scaggs (left) and another member of the Bellevue Marshal’s Office kneel in support of the protest this last June. Photo credit: Jenny Whyte

Wood River Weekly

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October 21 - November 3, 2020

NEWS

5

COVID

This chart puts into perspective the uptick of COVID-19 cases now in comparison to the onset of the pandemic, which impacted the Valley first and most in Idaho this spring. Image credit: Idaho Division of Public Health

St. Luke’s: ‘We Are At A Tipping Point’ Local medical providers sound the COVID risk alarm

T

By Eric Valentine

he group of doctors and local organizations focused on health and wellness is sounding the alarm and hoping Valley residents do not keep hitting snooze. The so-called Adaptive Planning Committee—made up of nine physicians and Blaine County, Blaine County School District, The Hunger Coalition, St. Luke’s Wood River medical staff, South Central Public Health District, and Visit Sun Valley—announced Monday that Blaine County has entered the “Critical Risk” phase for uncontrolled spread of COVID-19.

“We have had alarms go off for seven months about COVID, we know there’s fatigue, but we cannot hit snooze,” the committee said. “We are at a tipping point.”

The announcement comes on the heels of a video-conference town hall meeting late last week, where county leaders and regional health officials discussed the recent surge in cases and hospitalizations and called for renewed efforts to mitigate the novel virus. It also follows the City of Hailey’s decision to issue a health order that removes the medical exemption for face coverings and further restricts group sizes even on private property.

From Oct. 4 – Oct. 10, cases of COVID-19 are higher than the week in March right before the Valley went to shelter in place.

“This time, we have mitigation measures in place and hope to avoid that blunt tool.

No one wants that to happen again. It affects our kids, our economy, our mental health and our long-term physical health,” the committee wrote in its statement to the press.

However, unlike in March, Idaho overall is experiencing a surge in cases and regional hospital capacity and staffing levels are strained. Last week the health district had more cases in one week than all of March and April combined. Because of rapidly

rising COVID-related visits, there is growing concern by healthcare providers about the local capacity to care for trauma and other non-COVID illness.

“We have tools to fight COVID collectively. We need to deploy them more vigorously and take additional ones from the toolbox,” the committee noted.

Here’s what the Adaptive Planning Committee is doing and asking residents, visitors, and businesses to do as well: ● Wear a mask in public, washing hands frequently and watching your distance from others. ● Limit interactions with those outside your household. Tighten your social circle and limit indoor gatherings to less than 10. Better yet, limit indoor gatherings to those in your household. ● We all want to support our local restaurants and shops, so consider take-out versus indoor dining and buying local versus buying online or traveling to other areas to shop. ● Minimize travel and plan your shopping and errands to minimize interactions. ● Take care of yourself by exercising, getting enough sleep, eating right and staying hydrated. Find ways to unplug and reduce stress. ● Take care of each other: Be kind and gracious. Thank each other for wearing a mask and smile, even when wearing a mask—it can affect your emotion and may be seen in your eyes. Check in with family, friends and neighbors.

“We received national attention for the outbreak in the spring, it’s not the kind of attention we want,” the group added.

You are not alone.

Life is anything but normal right now. If you’re suicidal or in crisis, reach out to someone who understands.

Call or text the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline: 208-398-4357 or 800-273-8255

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Wood River Weekly

RE-ELECT SENATOR STENNETT VOTE EARLY AT THE BLAINE COUNTY COURTHOUSE M-F, 8 AM-5 PM, OCT. 13-30

•

October 21 - November 3, 2020

Creating more economic opportunities and quality jobs Promoting better educational opportunities for Idahoans Protecting Idaho’s clean air and water and public access

NEWS

Plans for the proposed Soldier Field Airport. Image credit: Camas County Planning & Zoning

Battle Expected Over Soldier Field Airport Plans

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FAIRFIELD

By Eric Valentine

esidents of and around Fairfield were described by Camas County Planning & Zoning chairman Jerry Nelson as people who “only sleep here” in a report by the Idaho Mountain Express. But at least for some of them, their effort to mitigate the impacts of a private airport at Soldier Field will be die-hard.

“That was never the point,” said resident Kate Geiger, who opposes the airport. “The point is the people flying in here won’t be sleeping here.”

At issue is whether a private airport at Soldier Field should be allowed and, if so, how to best mitigate any negative impacts and optimize. Camas P&Z commissioners gave the project their nod of approval Oct. 8 after rounds of deliberations by the developer—IxNay Investment Trust—and objections by some residents.

To be clear, not all residents and business owners object to the 1,600-acre development that will construct—among other things— an 8,500-foot-long, 350-foot-wide runway that can handle commercial-size jets such as 747s. Some have publicly and privately stated that they see it as an opportunity for the small, agricultural community to grow a more vital economy and potentially become the epicenter of more affordable housing for working-class residents struggling to afford rents and mortgages across the Wood River Valley.

They also figure it would create an uptick in tax revenue for an area not flush with public funds.

For residents like Leigh Weidman and Bob Rodman, the airport development feels like a done deal—and one done for the wealthy of the north Valley, not for the residents in the south. Why? It will be a private airport, for one thing, which has far less restrictions to navigate than its public counterparts—a “parking lot for Allen & Company and the Hailey airport,” as Weidman describes it. And for Rodman, who lives 1.5 miles from the site, the tax revenue argument is not backed up by the facts. Rodman says he researched the tax revenue of similar airports in the state and tax revenues were not even in the five-figure range.

Prepare For Takeoff Soldier Field Airport still needs to get permission from the Camas County Board of Commissioners to move forward with the project.

And to get their approval, developers will need to show they can and will adhere to certain guidelines set forth by a yet-to-be-completed report by Camas County building administrator Dwight Butlin.

Once that report is filed, the commissioners will then take up the matter.

Since the development is a private one, it doesn’t necessarily trigger a public hearing. So that’s what residents like Weidman, Rodman and Geiger are focusing their energies on now.

“There are a number of issues that still need to be addressed,” Weidman said. “Hopefully, the county will see that it’s fitting to have a public hearing. And that’s when we have to make sure that if this airport gets developed, we make sure they’ve dotted all their i’s and crossed all their t’s.”

Alternative Routes What’s disheartening for some of the opponents of the development is that for the most part they feel some deal has been cut behind closed doors and that their concerns have fallen on deaf or unwilling ears.

“I felt like they thought our concerns were real cute but they’ve already made up their mind,” recalled Rodman, a 22-year resident of Fairfield and 50-plus-year resident of the Valley, who said he attended all of the earlier sessions between the developers and P&Z. Weidman said she went as far as drafting a housing development concept for leaders and developers to consider. It involved 60 single-family homes worth roughly $200,000 each that would generate $12 million a year in property tax revenue for the area.

“If we’re just a bedroom community, then let’s be an affordable one,” Weidman said. “But no one was interested.”

Wood River Weekly

NEWS

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October 21 - November 3, 2020

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IN BRIEF

The two faces of BCSD leadership. One image shows trustees and superintendent GwenCarol Holmes while they were unknowingly being videotaped in a private discussion, and one image shows them after they were made aware. Photo credit: Wood River Weekly screen shots

Hot Mic Burns BCSD Trustees

Prior to a Blaine County School District board meeting held online Monday, trustees Lara Stone, Dan Turner, board president Keith Roark, and superintendent GwenCarol Holmes were broadcasting live, but unaware of it. The hot mic incident, in which the trustees and Holmes were discussing opinions expressed by mayors at a recent town hall on all things COVID, was met with umbrage by at least some Valley residents who have been vocal online and in messages to Wood River Weekly.

“Condescending” and “elitist” were some of the adjectives used to describe the back and forth, primarily between Stone and Holmes, when discussing Ketchum Mayor Neil Bradshaw’s “lecture” on the “danger” of masks and Carey Mayor Randy

Patterson’s denial of a local COVID problem as Holmes described it.

“One mayor told us everything was fine in his community even though I know there are eight cases there right now,” Holmes said, referring to Carey.

While there are moments that feel by any objective measure at least a bit caddy or gossipy, the BCSD officials caught on tape are discussing COVID-related matters with a level of earnesty, too. More importantly, the candid discussion shows the level of frustration leadership at the district is having with what is undeniably one of the most challenging reopening efforts by similar organizations across the country— how to safely restart schooling.

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Wood River Weekly

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October 21 - November 3, 2020

GUEST OPINION

CAITLIN JOHNSTONE

Imagine If MSM Consistently Applied The Evidentiary Standards It’s Applying To Hunter Biden’s Emails

M

by Caitlin Johnstone

ainstream media and social media platforms are actively blacking out an October surprise published by The New York Post which purports to show “smoking gun” emails from the laptop of Hunter Biden, son of Democratic nominee Joe Biden.

Both Twitter and Facebook have censored the story on their platforms, the first time we’ve seen the powerful social media giants deplatform a mainstream news media article, both citing concerns about the origins of the emails and an uncertainty about the veracity of the claims.

“Facebook was limiting distribution of the story while its outside fact-checkers reviewed the story’s claims, spokesman Andy Stone said,” reports NPR, adding that “Twitter said it decided to block the story because it couldn’t be sure about the origins of the emails.”

Twitter claims it found the emails to be in violation of its policies banning content which contained private in-

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formation and its rules against “hacked materials”, both of which would have forbidden all articles sharing the contents of the 2016 WikiLeaks drops if those rules had existed back then. As I warned could happen back in August, these rules have set the stage for the cross-platform censorship of a 2020 October surprise.

Right behind him in lack of self awareness is @kylegriffin1.

He didn’t want anyone sharing the link to the Post story, but he was happy to share @RepAdamSchiff’s conspiracy about Russian collusion even post-Mueller report. pic.twitter.com/CSnblk9X3V — Drew Holden (@DrewHolden360) October 14, 2020 There’s a good thread going around Twitter compiling posts that mainstream media reporters have been making in objection to the circulation of Hunter Biden’s emails alongside posts made by those same reporters promoting far more ridiculous and insubstantial allegations, like MSNBC’s virulent Russia conspiracy theorist Kyle Griffin saying nobody should link to the New York Post report because if they do they’ll be “amplifying disinformation”.

A new Reason article discusses how the mass media are not just avoiding the story but actively discouraging it: On Wednesday, The New York Post published an attention-catching original report: “Smoking-gun email reveals how Hunter Biden introduced Ukrainian businessman to VP dad.” In the previously unreleased email, which was allegedly sent on April 17, 2015, an executive with Burisma, the Ukrainian natural gas company, thanks Hunter Biden for “giving an opportunity” to meet Joe Biden, according to The NY Post.

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It’s a story that merits the attention of other journalists, political operatives, national security experts, and also the public at large—not least of all because there are serious questions about its accuracy, reliability, and sourcing. And yet many in the media are choosing not just to ignore the story, but to actively encourage others to suppress any discussion of it.

Indeed, two mainstream reporters who acknowledged (and criticized) the Post’s scoop—The New York Times’ Maggie Haberman and Politico’s Jake Sherman— faced thunderous denunciation on Twitter from Democratic partisans simply for discussing the story. Center for American Progress President Neera Tanden accused Haberman of promoting disinformation, and New York Times columnist Michelle Goldberg told Sherman that he was helping nefarious conservative activists “launder this bullshit into the news cycle.” Historian Kevin Kruse asked why they were “amplifying” the story.

Indeed a scroll through today’s mainstream news reporting does appear to show some consensus among most news media that the topic of the emails should be avoided, with most MSM articles on the matter covering the after-effects of the New York Post release or explaining why readers should be dubious about its contents. A new Washington Post article titled “Hunter Biden’s alleged laptop: an explainer” takes great pains to outline how important it is to be very, very certain that this story is everything it purports to be before investing any credulity in it.

“How do we know the email is authentic?

We do not,” WaPo tells us. “The New York Post posted PDF print-outs of several emails allegedly from the laptop, but for the ‘smoking gun’ email, it shows only a photo made the day before the story was posted, according to Thomas Rid, author of Active Measures, a book on disinformation. ‘There is no header information, no metadata.’ The Washington Post has been unable to independently verify or authenticate these emails, as requests to make the laptop hard drive available for inspection have not been granted.”

This would be the same Washington Post that has been circulating disinformation about Russia for years due to its disinterest in veri-

fying information before reporting, and has alongside the rest of the mass media been promoting the narrative that Russia interfered in the 2016 US election based solely on unproven assertions promoted by government agencies despite many gaping plot holes in that narrative. Where was the journalistic concern for seeing the data and inspecting the hard drives then?

For the media to now say that they can’t cover a story because it’s not totally substantiated is quite rich after 4 years of taking anonymous gossip as the gospel.

— Max Abrahms (@MaxAbrahms) October 15, 2020 In and of itself there is no problem at all with mainstream news media applying high evidentiary standards to its reporting and making sure readers are aware when political manipulators could be pulling the wool over their eyes. In and of itself this would be a good thing. The problem is that all this emphasis on verification and truth only comes up when it is politically convenient for these plutocratic media outlets, because only favoring truth when it’s convenient is the same as lying constantly.

Where were these high evidentiary standards when The Guardian reported without evidence and against all common sense that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange had been having secret meetings with Trump lackey Paul Manafort? That evidence never came out, because the story was ridiculous bullshit from the beginning, yet mass media outlets everywhere parroted it to their audiences like it was a fact. You can still post that bogus Guardian story on Twitter and Facebook to this very day without so much as a warning.

Where were these high evidentiary standards when Politico published the idiotic, nonsensical story that Iran was plotting to assassinate the American ambassador to South Africa? The report sparked many news reports and Twitter threats from the president, but when it was dismissed by the South African government itself there was barely a whisper about it. You are still free to share this bogus Politico article anywhere online you like.

Where were these high evidentiary standards when leaks by anonymous spooks dominated headlines for days with their evidence-free allegation that the Russian government had been paying Taliban-linked fighters bounties on western occupying forces? We now know that story was completely baseless and would have been dismissed by news reporters who were actually doing their due diligence, yet it’s still being cited as fact on Twitter by sitting US senators and in a recent vice presidential debate by Kamala Harris. If news reporters had spent anywhere near as much energy cautioning their audiences to be skeptical about this story and educating them about its plot holes as they’re spending on Hunter Biden’s emails, this would not be happening.

“No one has done more for our military” is the least believable thing Donald Trump can say when he’s gone 110 days without speaking out about reported bounties on our troops.

— Tammy Duckworth (@SenDuckworth) October 14, 2020 The problem is not that there are high evidentiary standards for Hunter Biden’s emails, the problem is that there are virtually no evidentiary standards when the plutocratic media want to sell the world on a narrative which benefits the establishment upon which the media-owning class has built its kingdom. News reports will be waved through on a vague assertion by some anonymous government operative if they are damaging to Russia, Iran, China, North Korea, or any other US-targeted nation, and they are on a pretty much daily basis to greater or lesser degrees.

If a news report facilitates the national security state, all journalistic protocol goes out the window and nobody knows the meaning of the word evidence. As soon as a report becomes inconvenient for a friend of the national security state like Joe Biden, suddenly strict evidentiary standards and warnings against potential disinformation are of paramount importance. This is the same as lying all the time.

They lie because the mass media within the US-centralized empire are the propaganda engine for that empire.

The drivers of empire understand that whoever controls the narrative controls the world, so they ensure that all points of narrative influence are tightly controlled by them.

A world where all news stories are held to the same evidentiary standards as Hunter Biden’s emails are currently being held would be a world without empire. People would never consent to the insanity of imperialism and endless war if their consent wasn’t manufactured, and depriving them of the information that is inconvenient for that empire is essential in that manufacturing.

Wood River Weekly

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October 21 - November 3, 2020

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Rupert Native, Rising Star To Perform At The Argyros

Rising opera star Cecilia Violetta López, who was recently named Opera Idaho’s 2019-2020 Artist of the Year, comes to Sun Valley to perform for the first time at the Argyros Performing Arts Center.

Accompanied by Nathan Salazar, Cecilia’s recital will be filled with French, German, Russian and Spanish art songs.

Opera News has named López one of opera’s “25 Rising Stars.”

Most recently, USA Today named Lopez one of Idaho’s Top 10 Most Influential Women of the Century.

López, a soprano, made her Opera Idaho debut as Gilda in Rigoletto (2014). With Opera Idaho, she performed her signature role of Violetta in La Traviata (2016) and debuted in the title role in Manon (2019), Maria in West Side Story in Concert (2018), and Adina in L’elisird’amore (2017). She got her musical start at a young age singing mariachi music that she learned from her mother.

Lopez went on to earn a Bachelor of Music degree (vocal performance) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, in 2011. She has received accolades for her performances from The New York Times, The Washington Post, has been featured on NPR, Idaho Public Television, Univision and Telemundo, and many other news outlets across the country.

Lopez has become a voice for her art form and constantly shares the story of her Idahoan roots, humble upbringing, hard work and career’s trajectory. She is now on the artist roster of the Metropolitan Opera, has sung at Carnegie Hall, she has an exhibit at the Idaho State Museum and an additional exhibit at the Minidoka County Historical Society Museum in her hometown of Rupert.

Lopez is also the recipient of an Idaho State Concurrent Resolution honoring her life as an Idahoan and her work in the world of opera.

Mayor Burke Clamps Down On Hailey Businesses, COVID

Hailey has adopted a new public health order in the face of rising COVID-19 cases which threaten to affect the capacity of medical facilities in southern Idaho to treat patients.

Using recommendations from the City of Hailey’s adopted COVID Risk Suppression Plan, the Hailey City Council voted unanimously last week to strengthen mask requirements, group-size limits for both public and private spaces, and physical-distance guidelines for businesses operating during the pandemic.

Specifics are available on the City of Hailey website (haileycityhall.org/documents), but Mayor Martha Burke also sent a letter to Hailey businesses summarizing the new orders which went into effect on Oct. 14. The measures include: • Face masks or face shields must be worn by all people occupying a public space with another person, subject to limited exceptions.

• Hand washing/sanitizing must be available and used at entrances to each business.

• A minimum of 6 feet must be maintained between people within the same room in all businesses, which will limit the room occupancy to a maximum of one person for each 64 square feet of room space. There are no exceptions to this requirement.

• Indoor group sizes may not exceed 10 people, unless one of the exemptions within the attached Order applies.

• Outdoor group sizes may not exceed 50 people, unless one of the exemptions within the attached Order applies.

• All businesses are required to post signage at each entrance in English and Spanish, which states that face coverings and hand washing/sanitization are required to enter and 6-foot distancing must be maintained within each business.

There are no exceptions to the signage requirement. Businesses are prohibited from serving customers who do not comply with face coverings and distancing regulations, with penalties resulting in business closure when businesses are noncompliant.

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Rupert, Idaho, native and Opera Idaho’s Artist of the Year Cecilia Violetta López. Photo credit: Opera Idaho

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Wood River Weekly

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

•

October 21 - November 3, 2020

LARA MCLEAN

Vote Stennett & Greenberg

Michelle Stennett & Jacob Greenberg have proven themselves to be the responsive, responsible leaders that our district and county needs. They have consistently supported Fire/EMS and all first responders to keep our community thriving and safe. The Ketchum Professional Firefighters strongly endorse Stennet & Greenberg.

Lara McLean Secretary/Treasurer Local 4758 Ketchum Professional Firefighters

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Wood River Weekly

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

BARBARA TROPEA

Democrat Defunding - Response

I’m writing in response to Sharon Bockemohle’s letter in your Oct. 7, 2020, issue, “It’s Time To Defund Democrats.” She is very misinformed and I couldn’t let it go by.

The Democrats DO NOT want to defund the police, open borders on immigration or encourage late-term abortions. Where she got this information, I can only guess.

The police are terribly underfunded and overworked. They deal with multiple issues and some of what the Democrats want is more help from the mental health community.

I’m also sure that she does not know that Barack Obama actually deported more illegal immigrants than Donald Trump, he just went about it with some thought and compassion, targeting criminals and the newly arrived.

I don’t know what she is talking about on “late-term abortions.”

Abortion is LEGAL and most don’t think that the government should be telling us what to do with our bodies.

Black Lives Matter is hardly a “radical” idea, and as far as antifa (which stands for anti-Fascist), that is only a belief, NOT an organization. I would hope that we are ALL anti-Fascist.

The Republicans (Trumpers) have just replaced the old Communism fear with the new Socialism fear. The Democratic Party is hardly “overrun by radical Socialists.” I’m sure New Zealand and Sweden would have a good laugh over that.

As far as the justice system goes, I have no objection to the latest Supreme Court nominee; it was the Obama nominee that should have been allowed to proceed—THAT is the injustice.

It would do us all a world of good to look at the parties’ platforms to see what they ACTUALLY say. In the end, we will all have to work together.

Please be sure to vote and may the person with the most votes win.

Barbara Tropea Ketchum

LETTER TO THE EDITOR MARY AUSTIN CROFTS

Save Public Access Re-elect Jacob Greenberg

Dear Editor, As executive director of the Blaine County Recreation District, I fought successfully for many issues over the years in Blaine County; public access to rivers and lands, trails of every kind, swimming pools, programs for active living, tennis courts, and special parts of our community that residents were passionate to preserve.

On my journey, I worked with many amiable developers and many difficult ones. I am writing today about my experience with Kiki Tidwell, who was developing a piece of property on Broadford Road.

Per county policies, she was required to provide river access. It was one of the most difficult negotiations of my career. I was met with every objection: over the name, the rules for use, parking, and things like picnic tables. It was clear Kiki did not want to allow public access and use. Fortunately, the County Commissioners fought right with me and the Broadford Open Space was created.

Other public access issues I worked on found Kiki objecting. I am not certain why, but I know for a fact that Blaine County residents do not want her as a Blaine County Commissioner negotiating with landowners about public access.

Public access is a part of our sacred treasure here. Without county rules on public land access, we would not have trailheads at Adams Gulch or Greenhorn Gulch built at the end of private roads. It can be a tough job to maintain it as was seen in the news lately.

We are growing again. It is time to pay attention. Re-elect Jacob Greenberg, who has a strong track record fighting for the public’s right to enjoy the Big Wood River and public lands.

Mary Austin Crofts Sun Valley

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

MOLLY PAGE

Vote For Sally Toone

Some people may not be aware that we have two state representatives in District 26 and one state senator. One of our state representatives, Sally Toone, is sometimes passed by on the ballot because people think they can only vote for one position. Voters can choose two representatives—one from 26A and 26B. Everyone should know about Rep. Sally Toone because she works hard for the people in our county and legislative district every day.

Sally was born and raised in Idaho and has lived in Gooding for 50 years. Sally is a ‘salt of the earth’ kind of person. She’s a retired math teacher, who has taught generations of kids in Gooding County. She and her husband and sons run their family farm and cattle ranch in Gooding and Camas counties.

Sally brings a unique perspective to the legislature. She understands public lands and resource issues, as well as having firsthand knowledge of the challenges in our education system. She has taken the time to understand our tourism-driven economy in Blaine County, while staying true to her rural and agricultural roots.

I watched Sally in action at the legislature last year when I was a substitute representative. I was able to observe up close her skill at relationship building and ability to understand complex legislation.

We are lucky to have Sally representing us in District 26. She’s a champion for everyone in the district from Smiley Creek to Hagerman. Vote for Sally Toone!

Molly Page Hailey

•

October 21 - November 3, 2020

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

11

BART LASSMAN

Greenberg Supports Health And Safety First

For over 30 years in fire and emergency medical services, I was fortunate enough to have worked alongside many excellent Blaine County commissioners. Prior to my retirement, I had the privilege of working with Blaine County Commissioner Jacob Greenberg, who has been exceptional in the position. Commissioner Greenberg is highly respected by emergency managers locally, regionally and statewide for his work ethic and his extensive knowledge of many challenges faced by elected officials, chief officers and first responders, including emergency dispatch operations, interoperability and all-hazards emergency preparedness.

Additionally, Commissioner Greenberg, who is the liaison to Blaine County’s fire-based ambulance service contractors, could not be more fiscally responsible or transparent to the taxpayers in the Blaine County Ambulance District. Under his leadership, the ambulance services are adequately funded with the most up-to-date emergency medical equipment and ambulance replacement schedules.

Commissioner Greenberg has always kept a watchful eye on emergency medical service budget requests. He understands proper annual maintenance or purchases of operating supplies and capital equipment for the safe treatment and transport of patients, and the safety of paramedics and EMTs. Even with the ever-increasing costs of life-saving medical supplies, Commissioner Greenberg supports a conservative approach to Ambulance District tax increases on a fiscal basis using a wellthought-out 20-year analysis of the revenue.

What stands out most about Commissioner Greenberg is his genuine caring attitude and the compassion he shows toward all first responders. He understands the toll the job places on these dedicated men and women and their families. Commissioner Greenberg supports and encourages peer group and healthcare professional counseling in the prevention and treatment of post-traumatic stress of first responders.

I believe Commissioner Greenberg cares deeply about the health and safety of our first responders because he cares so deeply for our entire community. Please join me in voting for Jacob Greenberg for Blaine County Commissioner.

BART LASSMAN Bellevue

VISION 2020

HEALTH, BUSINESS

Solving COVID With A Scalpel, Not A Hammer

L

By Eric Valentine

ast Friday—and as of press deadline this coming Friday, too—20-plus Hailey business owners gathered to discuss how COVID restrictions have impacted their respective businesses. The aim of the meeting wasn’t to complain about the real or perceived politics of it all or opine on the effectiveness or lack thereof of masks. Rather, it was about finding a scientific way to approach business reopenings, resulting in the best of both worlds: killing off the coronavirus while keeping businesses alive.

“We are trying to solve this with a scalpel rather than a blunt (expletive) hammer,” explained Oliver Whitcomb, the owner of Gravity Fitness and Tennis, a Hailey establishment that has spent thousands of dollars upgrading its air quality with a state-of-the-art HVAC air filtration system.

The “we” Whitcomb refers to is the recently named Hailey Business Owners Alliance. The scientific solution they want to ultimately propose to city and county officials involves scrapping the (for the most part) one-size-fits-all approach to business restrictions and to create tiers and categories more specifically focused.

For example, Whitcomb said the members would like to see tiers of business such as high-risk, medium-risk and low-risk. For each group, categories of required and optional COVID mitigation measures could be developed. But they could even take it a step further. Case in point: Whitcomb’s gym. If a business has put in an air filtration system where virus and bacteria cannot exist, then they would be allowed a higher number of maximum people allowed in a space at one time, or mask-wearing would become optional.

Whitcomb recently hired an air quality tester from Boise who took samples from Gravity just last week. They are awaiting results to establish a baseline for how the gym’s HVAC is performing. In the meantime, Whitcomb is also deep-diving some things we take for granted, like disinfectant. He’s since learned that each product has a different “dwell time”—the amount of time it takes for a product to destroy germs before it should be wiped off. Some products are effective in seconds, others take minutes and should not be wiped off right away. A categorical system could require businesses that wipe down areas between customers (like a restaurant) to use a product with a seconds-only dwell time. A business that doesn’t have a regular flow of clientele and only cleans areas at the end of a shift could be allowed to use the disinfectants that work better when they sit for minutes and air dry.

“The point is we can do this scientifically and that’s something that will actually help stop the spread,” Whitcomb said.

If you are a business owner, partner or manager, you are invited to attend the group’s next meeting.

Details on time and place are available from Whitcomb at (208) 720-6088 or by email at mundonim@ gmail.com.

Part of the HVAC air filtration system installed by Gravity Fitness & Tennis. Photo credit: Wood River Weekly

12

Fishing R epoRt

COMM ENT ARY Wood River Weekly

•

October 21 - November 3, 2020

NO BONES ABOUT IT THE “WEEKLY” FISHING REPORT FOR OCTOBER 21 - NOVEMBER 3 FROM PICABO ANGLER

J

ack Frost is flipping the switch over to winter this weekend. Much like last year, the fall weather may come to an abrupt halt. This weekend’s freeze means the end to some types of fly fishing. Mainly, the terrestrial population will be frozen out for the year. Hoppers, Ants and Beetles will become a nonfactor moving forward. If you fish this weekend, be prepared to nymph and streamer fish. The cold should knock back most of the fall hatches. We still may find rising fish after the cold snap, but nothing like what we’ve seen thus far this summer. Once the snow starts really falling in a few more months, anglers can count on seeing the first big Midge hatches of the winter and a return to robust dry-fly fishing.

Silver Creek may have some very short fishing windows before the weekend, but if you plan on fishing over the weekend, bring your favorite streamer patterns. Once the extreme cold has come and gone, there will probably be a return of Baetis hatches and October Caddis between now and Thanksgiving.

The Big Wood will be best fished with small nymphs with the cold coming in. Olive-colored streamers are also a great way to go, as Big Wood trout will always dine on the Wood River Sculpin when the opportunity presents itself. So go out and give these fish that opportunity with your favorite Sculpin imitation.

The Lost River will fish much the same as the Big Wood in the coming week. Just be aware of hazardous driving conditions on Saturday and Sunday. Take your Red Copper Johns, Pheasant Tail Nymphs and your favorite Micro-Nymphs if you go.

The South Fork of the Boise is also going to be on par with the Wood and the Lost. Be prepared for terrible weekend weather, but the bookend days may be decent days on the water—especially on the early side of the cold front.

We say this each and every year and we will say it again now. Be prepared when you’re out winter fishing! A lot of people that have not experienced a cold snap like the one coming will not be prepared. ALWAYS, when fishing in these extremes, bring dry clothes, food and water, a full tank of gas, a fully charged phone, and keep a sleeping bag in your vehicle all winter. It only sounds extreme until you need it. Be safe this weekend and have fun!

Happy fishing, everyone!

Hwy 20 in Picabo info@picaboangler.com (208)788.3536 www.picaboangler.com

FRAN JEWELL

Kalidor’s Puppy Diary Week 3

K

By Fran Jewell

alidor has learned his basic manners. He has not jumped on anyone since day two. I will not pet him or give him any reward for jumping up, EVER. He sits politely to go in or out a door, including his crate. He has also stopped running through my legs; he almost tripped me many times the first three days. Imagine what would have happened had I allowed that behavior and he weighed 65 pounds. He would have knocked me over! I stopped the running between my legs by just gently squeezing my legs together so he couldn’t pass through.

This week we are focusing on childproofing him. The one thing to remember is that NO PUPPY OR DOG IS EVER CHILDPROOF!!!

Dogs and puppies are living beings, and while we can do lots of things to make them understand they must be tolerant and gentle, they are still dogs and make mistakes. The first part of this is to teach all children to respect dogs and puppies and handle them with care. I will NEVER leave a puppy and a child together unattended or allow rough play. My rule of thumb is that I am as close to the dog/puppy and child as 1 foot for every year of age the child is. So, if Kalidor is with a 4-year-old, I am never farther away than 4 feet.

Kalidor is learning that GOOD THINGS come from a hand near his bowl. I do this by putting an empty bowl down with one kibble in it. I let him eat that. Then, I take put a few kibbles in my hand with a closed fist and hold my hand in the bowl. When Kalidor tries to nibble my hand to get the food, I just keep my hand closed. When he backs away, especially if he sits, I drop the kibble in the bowl and let him have it. Many people try to take the food away, then give it back. This can be a recipe for disaster and teaching food aggression.

We are also working on keeping a DOWN STAY for petting from children. He needs that skill first BEFORE I introduce children. If Kalidor has some basic commands, it is very fun for children to give

Four-year-old Isabella is petting Kalidor while her older sister, Moriah, gives him treats for staying in the down position. No jumping, no biting— and Kalidor learns that children are very nice to be around! Photo credit: Fran Jewell

the command and then give him a treat. Children need to learn to give a puppy a treat with a flat hand, just like feeding a horse. When children learn how to give commands to a puppy that has skills, it sets them BOTH up for a relationship of respect. As Kalidor gets older, he can learn parlor tricks so children are interested in interacting with him.

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.

SCIENCE OF PLACE

HARRY WEEKES

A Tiny Morning Companion

I

BY HARRY WEEKES

n early March of this year, just a little after 5:00 a.m., I looked to the skies to see a satellite cruising toward the Big Dipper.

As I watched, another emerged in its trail.

And then another. By the time five were visible, I started freaking out.

I was at the tail end of The Three Body Problem, Cixin Liu’s epic trilogy, in part about the invasion of Earth by Trisolaran aliens, and in the midst of a lifetime enamored with science fiction. When the five satellites became six, and seven, and eight, eventually becoming more than 30, I was, quite literally, convinced that the alien fleet had arrived, with all of its implications, the most fundamental of which was summed up by, “We are not alone!”

When I found out later that these were StarLink satellites, Elon Musk’s very much Earth-borne fleet, I was bummed.

Then, this fall rolled around. Vivid in the early morning sky is Venus—a piercing, blue-white “star” hanging over the eastern hills. And guess what? In early September, an announcement came—phosphine gas has been detected in the cloud decks of Venus.

Now, if the term “cloud decks” isn’t cool enough, appreciating both the structure of Venus, and also the potential meaning of this announcement, brings a different feeling to my morning stargazing.

For starters, Venus is shrouded in cloud layers, tens of miles thick. This blanket means the Venusian surface is nearly 900 degrees Fahrenheit. It also means that about 30 miles up, the cloud layers are “temperate”—about the same temperatures as we have on Earth.

And, it turns out, early evidence is that all abiotic routes of manufacture for phosphine have been ruled out. Which leaves the most likely culprit bacteria. That’s right—bacteria might be producing phosphine gas on Venus. That’s right, there might be life on other planets, and one in our solar system.

Summed up another way, “We are not alone!”

But you realize pretty quickly, even knowing the considerable hemming and hawing,

A batch of 60 Starlink test satellites stacked atop a Falcon 9 rocket, close to being released into orbit. Photo credit: SpaceX, accessed via Wikimedia.

and “what ifs” and “probably nots” associated with any kind of scientific finding, that people are not content with bacteria being the life form we discover. This, despite the fact that microbial cells outnumber our own, in our own bodies, by as much as a factor of 10; depending on which estimate you follow, there might be as many as 100 trillion of these cells inside of you.

But bacterial byproducts potentially showing up in the cloud decks of Venus? Blah.

Show me some tentacled, multi-headed, phaser-wielding humanoids that speak with their minds. When we find life on other planets, we want our socks blown off, a communication link established, and longstanding human issues solved (as opposed to a total intergalactic war).

We minimize bacteria in space because we minimize them here on Earth, despite the fact that they were fundamental to how life started on Earth, and also to how life sur-

vives on Earth now.

Last week, Elon’s necklace of satellites surged across the sky, again. They disappeared into the distance even as my gaze turned to Venus, burning above a rising fingernail moon. I stared as intently as I could, and just couldn’t help but wonder, “Are we really not alone?”

I know there will be a lot we need to do to confirm these early reports. Even so, a powerful new possibility now accompanies my morning walks.

Harry Weekes is the founder and head of school at The Sage School in Hailey. This is his 48th year in the Wood River Valley, where he lives with Hilary and two of their three baby adults—Penelope and Simon. The other member of the flock, Georgia, is currently fledging at Davidson College in North Carolina.

Wood River Weekly

MONEY MATTERS

•

October 21 - November 3, 2020

JENNI RILEY

Keep Your Wallet Warm Too

T

By Jenni Riley, FPQPTM

his is the time of year when we start winterizing our home, but it can also be a time to winterize your finances. Sometimes the two go hand in hand. Home inefficiencies can put a slow leak in your budget. Here are some steps to help keep the chill of winter at bay.

• • •

•

Change your furnace filters - Doing so allows the furnace to operate more efficiently and help clean the air so you can breathe easier.

Feel for drafts -Check all your doors and windows to ensure they are weather-stripped.

Program your thermostat - By having your thermostat set to turn down right after you leave for the day and when you go to bed can add up the savings.

Perform an energy audit - If your home is older, it may be time to look at your insulation, furnace, and single-pane windows. These can be larger-ticket items, but an investment in increasing your home’s energy efficiency could be a smart investment.

Your energy costs are not the only thing freezing your wallet during the winter months.

You can start planning now to avoid the last-minute scramble to offset some expenses.

• •

•

Plan out your holiday gifting - Set a budget for each person on your list and stick to it. Start finding the gift that will be meaningful now, and you can spread the expenditures out over the next couple of months instead of all at the same time.

Start working on next year’s plan - In October of each year, the Social Security Administration typically announces any cost-of-living increases for the coming year, potentially impacting the budgets of retirees. Open enrollment for Medicare Parts C and D has begun, and the deadline is December 7. For those still working, create a plan to maximize your contributions to your retirement accounts.

End-of-year planning - Talk to your advisor to see if there are strategies you should put in place to balance realized capital gains and losses where appropriate.

Talk to your financial professionals to see if bunching your charitable donations makes sense for you.

A little planning now can keep your wallet from being left out in the cold.

Jenni Riley, FPQPTM is a Financial Paraplanner Qualified ProfessionalTM and Director of Operations. Hazlett Wealth Management, LLC. is not a registered broker/dealer, and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. 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. 675 Sun Valley Road Suites J1 + J2 Ketchum, Idaho 83340 , 208.726.0605. HazlettWealthManagement.com

ON LIFE’S TERMS

other parts of the lawn along with Suki. Two young boys stopped me and asked me what n a time of fear and trepidation, some name I was shouting. We started talking, things still give us hope for the future and and after a few minutes they left. I went on joy in the present. Certainly, big events to other parts, still calling and whistling. can help: a baby’s birth, a wedding that, After about 10 minutes I saw the boys far though smaller than planned, away by the entrance to the reminds us of the possibilities park, running toward me for love, or the spirit we see with Cleo on a leash and big in many instances of people smiles on their faces. They helping others. I certainly found her sitting by my car have learned to appreciate in the lot, asked someone if the friends and acquaintances they could borrow a leash, I can contact, the efforts of and brought her to me, others who help me laugh and Any dog owner must know retain a sense of humor, and the relief I felt and my instinct the obvious, the meaning of to hug them (though I didn’t, family. I am blessed. as that’s inappropriate even A couple of weekends ago without the pandemic). I told something occurred that JoEllen Collins—a longtime them that they were my new might seem slight, a happy resident of the Wood River heroes but reminded them surprise that not only made Valley— is an Idaho Press that even though I look like my day but increased my ap- Club award-winning colum- a safe grandma, they should preciation of the good in hu- nist, a teacher, writer, fabric always be careful around artist, choir member and man nature. strangers. I managed to learn I took my two small dogs, unabashedly proud grandma their ages and names. Both Cleo and Suki, to the wonder- known as “Bibi Jo.” Hemingway School students, ful dog park at Warm Springs they exemplify the hope for Ranch. It is a reason for gratitude, a doggy positivity that is manifested right among us. paradise. On a beautiful fall Sunday, there Friendly, honest, good 8-year-old citizens, was the usual abundance of doggies and they are why I love to work with kids. They dog-friendly people, and, as often occurs, asked no reward (although I did, days latI engaged in a conversation with a couple er, get them each a very modest thank-you of locals accompanying a friendly dog. Cleo toy), returned the leash, and said they hoped hardly ever leaves my side; we can be walk- they’d see me (plus my grandchildren) soon. ing sans leash in a place like this park (othI was buoyed for much more time than the erwise they are leashed), and I look ahead, incident may have warranted, but even two not seeing her, start to call, and there she weeks later, I smile when I think of their is, just behind my legs. So, when my new efforts, their open souls, and their desire to friends left, I expected to find her close to help. What a gift I received! me. After 20 panicked minutes, I moved to

I

By JoEllen Collins

13

INSPIRATIONS FROM MY HEART

Truth Or Dare?

A

DOVE

BY DOVE

t this point in our existence, we are inundated with a constant flow of information. To our knowledge, we have no idea of the truth of the information being put out or the agenda pursued by the parties putting out the information. So many things sound true and could be true according to your own perspective, but many things are taken out of context or not complete and used to emphasize a certain agenda.

How do we know what is really true and how will it affect us and our families? I think we basically all want the same things for humanity—love, health, abundance, laughter, shelter, happiness, purpose, safety, and a life filled with adventure, magic, education and growth.

Do we think we are entitled to all of the above and where does it come from?

Do we believe it is the government’s duty to provide these things for us? Or, do you come to realize that to achieve the life you want requires effort on your part?

If everything is provided for us, what is our purpose? There is no motivation to become more than what already exists.

I think we are at a crossroads in existence in which we get to choose where our truth and fulfillment exists. For me, I have come to know that my joy for life comes from experiencing nature and creativity in all realms. Be it cooking, sewing, gardening, writing, or biking in nature, I find my heart soars and I truly am in joy. If I take an afternoon and watch what is going on in the world on TV, I find I become confused and doubtful of what I feel as truth.

We used to believe that if it was in the news because it was printed, it had to be true. Otherwise, you could be sued. We no longer have any such assurances that anything you hear or read is true. There are those out there whose whole agenda is to manipulate and confuse. Keep the masses asleep. Let us tell you what is good for you.

I can guarantee you that only you can determine what is good for you. Your truth can only come from inside you.

I know I have been checking lately with my heart space to see how I am doing and my heart space is very light and happy. I listen to the news and it makes my head believe that there is no one truth that is not manipulated for someone else’s agenda. So, again, I caution you: Put your focus on the space your physical heart occupies and see what is there.

Where your focus goes, energy flows. Don’t embrace the doubt of the mind. It will always be there. Your truth lies in your heart. Talk and listen to yourself. It will be one of the best conversations you ever have. Wake up to yourself and let the rest go.

Much love, Dove

THE WAY I SEE IT

CHRIS MILLSPAUGH

Let’s Make A Deal

JOELLEN COLLINS

A Happy Surprise

I

BY CHRIS MILLSPAUGH

watched an old movie last night with Burt Reynolds and Dom DeLuise, titled, “The End.” It’s a story about facing death and trying to make a deal with the Higher Power to live on. In the story, Reynolds faces death by prying, wheedling and bargaining with his Lord to prevent his demise and he’ll become a changed man.

“Just let me live and I’ll give up smoking, drinking and fooling around with the ladies, I swear!”

As he begins to feel better after each near-death experience, he begins to waffle on his promises: “Okay, I’ll smoke just 10 cigarettes a day, drink just three cocktails, and mildly flirt with the blonde at Western Union.”

As he becomes entirely well again, he changes his tune completely: “Thank you, Lord. I’ll start with what I promised right after Christmas so I can celebrate the birth of Jesus in your name. Hey, does anybody have a cigarette?”

These near-death scenarios occur throughout his life and he repeats his actions and vows again and again. Finally, it all catches up with him and he dies a broken man.

I’d like to approach this premise a different way by debating with my Higher Power regarding the upcoming election: “Okay, okay, okay. If you could see your way to have Trump exposed in the presidential race, I’ll do the following: I’ll give up HBO and Showtime and on-demand movies. Now, if you could see your way to influence victories in the swing states like Florida, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio, I’ll give up the entire Internet, eat only fruits and vegetables for the rest of my life, and never eat candy or drink carbonated beverages again.”

Now, I am ready to ask the big favor.

“Lord, if it’s within your power to create a landslide victory for Biden and the Democratic Party in the election and take over the Senate and the House in an amazing rout, I will nullify my ability to laugh, watch only “Idaho Reports,” the Channel 11 10 o’clock news from Twin Falls, and only stern dramas and documentaries.”

“All this just to get rid of the “Orange Oz” forever. I swear that’s what I will do!

As election day nears, I implore you to make a deal with your personal savior, make the red states blue and bid Trump adieu.

I made my vow. How about you?

Nice talking with you.

Editor’s Note: Mr. Millspaugh lives in a log cabin on a major thoroughfare with his cat, Myles, a registered Democat (sp.) that eats only seeds and tufts of grass.

14

Wood River Weekly

HEALTH BEAT

ST. LUKE’S WOOD RIVER

•

October 21 - November 3, 2020

ADVERTORIALS BETTER HOMEOWNERS NEWS

ANNA & MICHELLE

Seven Questions to Ask Before You Choose an Agent

T Influenza, A Familiar Foe Dr. Bryan Mason, St. Luke’s Clinic

How do we distinguish COVID from Influenza?

Both influenza and COVID-19 cause fevers, chills, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, body aches, headaches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.

Loss of taste and/or smell is a symptom that is unique to COVID-19, but I am not sure that I am confident enough in this alone to hang my hat on someone having COVID-19 and not influenza.

Most patients who present with a flu-like illness will be tested for both influenza and COVID-19.

Is it important that I get tested if I am sick?

Whether they have influenza, COVID-19 or some other flulike illness, most people will recover without any specific treatment. Although not necessary for treatment, having a laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of either influenza and/or COVID-19 will be important to help us better understand disease activity, which in turn will help medical providers and public health experts make more informed decisions. Laboratory-confirmed diagnoses will also guide contact tracing and inform quarantine directives.

Are there any treatments available if I do get sick?

We are confident in our ability to treat most bacterial infections, but influenza, like COVID-19, is caused by a virus, so treatment options are limited. Fortunately for most people, the body’s immune system properly combats these viruses.

Some anti-viral medications have been shown to shorten the duration of influenza a little. For some patients with underlying conditions or who are at high risk, even shortening the illness by one day can improve outcomes.

There is growing evidence that steroids such as Dexamethasone may improve outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Although studies are ongoing, to date there is not data to support the use of steroids or COVID-directed treatments in the outpatient setting.

As with COVID-19, treatment of hospitalized patients with influenza is primarily supportive, which may include supplemental oxygen, mechanical ventilation, and medications and treatments to help other vital organs function sufficiently until their body is able to fight off the virus.

he concern today when putting your home on the market should not be whether you’ll get a contract; it’s whether you are going to recognize the majority your net proceeds without any unnecessary delays.

What you realize from the sale of your home has to do with maximizing the sales price while minimizing the sales expenses. Interestingly, the buyers will be trying to minimize the price they have to pay for your home and possibly, have you pay some of their expenses.

Taking a few pictures with a cell phone and putting a sign in the yard may be enough to get a buyer but successfully selling a home in today’s market requires expert marketing and expert negotiations.

Marketing begins with the preparation of the property to optimize the first impressions it makes to potential buyers. A skilled professional can make recommendations that can help the home sell for the most money and in the shortest amount of time. Cleaning, painting, depersonalizing, removing unnecessary items and possibly staging are a few of the recommendations you might receive.

93% of buyers rely on the Internet to search for properties and information and is something they engage even before they find an agent. Positioning the home so it only can be found effectively in the search is making it appeal favorably and requires careful consideration.

Professional-level photography will make the property look appealing. Experience knowing the right angles, the proper lighting, and having the right lens are only a few of the things can make a property stand out from the competition.

Negotiations plays a huge part in the sale of any home. There will be negotiations during the offer/contract stage with the buyer and the other agent. After that, there may be negotiations regarding inspections, repairs, the appraisal, or any-

NUESTRA VOZ CUENTA

Hispanics Making History Hispanic heritage means connecting to culture

Are there steps that I can take to keep from getting sick?

The same precautions that have been recommended to decrease the spread of COVID-19 will lso reduce the spread of influenza. Appropriate hand hygiene, social distancing, regular use of a face covering and staying home and away from others if you are sick are tried-and-true steps to reduce the spread of both influenza and COVID-19.

Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations. It also may make your illness milder if you do get sick. Getting vaccinated yourself protects people around you, including those who are more vulnerable, like babies and young children, older people, and people with certain chronic health conditions.

To maintain physical distancing and discourage congregations of people, St. Luke’s encourages patients to schedule an appointment at their primary care clinic via https://www. stlukesonline.org/mychart. Walk-in and drive-up appointments will not take place this year to maintain a safe care environment. If you aren’t registered for myChart, you can sign up by visiting https://mychart.slhs.org/MyChart/signup. If you can’t use myChart, you can make an appointment by calling St. Luke’s Connect at (208) 381-9000.

It’s your life, We help you live it

thing that might threaten the ultimate closing.

The following are seven questions that you can ask when interviewing an agent to market your home. The answers should help you evaluate and select an agent who can represent you and your interests.

• Do you use a professional photographer?

• Have you sold homes in this area recently?

• Explain your timetable for preparation, “going live” and market exposure.

• Describe your efforts during the negotiation process.

• Do you have a pricing analysis, showing actives and solds, for my neighborhood?

• Which properties will be our strongest competition?

• How do you get the most exposure to get competing offers?

On the surface, it may appear that all agents are the same. They are all be licensed to sell real estate and can put your home in the MLS for other agents to find. Experience and skill sets can vary widely among agents and the questions provided in this article can help you determine who can do the best job for you in today’s environment and the market your home is located.

U

OUR VOICE COUNTS

nderstanding and being a part of something is what we all yearn for. I am blessed to be the co-chair of our local Hispanic/LatinUS Task Force and honored to work beside Herbert Romero and his wife/partner, MaryCruz Gonzalez.

They have enhanced my life in so many ways, as they have our community for the past four years.

We were lucky to have Herbert and Mary bring a sense of connection and celebration of our Hispanic culture to this Valley, and this year was no exception. This year we celebrated our 3rd Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival first by joining Governor Little on Sept. 15 in Boise as he kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month, and proceeded from there to share resources and festivities in small pockets around our community, always making sure to use all safety precautions.

In addition to the festivities, we are proud to say that every city in our community, as well the county, acknowledged Hispanic Heritage Month with proclamations. As we were building momentum, sharing the importance of Hispanic heritage far and wide, we decided to finish with a bang. We closed on Oct. 15 with a celebration at the Limelight Hotel, joined by representatives from around the state sharing information and acknowledgement of the contributions our Hispanic culture brings to our community.

This opportunity was one that allowed me to

Photo credit: MaryCruz Romero

really reflect on my own culture, history and background and recognize the importance of embracing cultures and embracing differences. Our differences are what should bring us together, forming strong bonds—like puzzle pieces that are all different, but when connected, forge a stronger union.

Thank you all for joining us and we look forward to our 4th Annual in 2021.

Wood River Weekly

•

October 21 - November 3, 2020

15

KIKI TIDWELL

COFFEE CHATS WITH KIKI

Automated Tiny Changes That Add Up

I

BY KIKI TIDWELL

n ICL’s Ben Otto’s Sept 9th letter to the Blaine County Commissioners, he makes some really great points that are mirrored in the headlines of recent GreenTech Media articles.1 Otto wrote, “Since Idaho Power completed the Wood River Electrical Plan in 2008… the technology to provide service through local resources has drastically improved while the prices have fallen, rendering (the plan) obsolete and unsuited as the basis for any informed decision making. We recommend the Blaine County Commission require Idaho Power to not just update the 2008 Wood River Energy Plan, but to start fresh in order to ensure an accurate and up-to-date assessment of the Valley’s needs and opportunities… to include the customer side of the equation…”Demand Response” programs that provide incentives (to homes and businesses) to turn off unnecessary things to help meet energy needs during critical times.”

This morning’s GTM’s sub-headline is, “Vermont utility now controls several thousand Tesla Powerwall batteries in customer homes. The results have been promising” and GTM’s Jeff St. John’s August 28th’s article, “Distributed Energy Helped Fight California’s Grid Outages, But it Could Do Much More, …could turn emergency help into stable, consistent grid relief.”2 And St. John’s Sept 17th article, “ ‘Game-Changer’ FERC Order Opens Up Wholesale Grid Markets to Distributed Energy Resources”3 tells us that these batteries distributed in homes and businesses can now be counted on and compensated for being a vital part of the grid.

The world has radically changed from the utility making power in big central power plants and sending it over long transmission lines to homes. Homes have recently evolved to be more self-sufficient by being able to store power in their own Tesla Powerwalls or home batteries and making their own power from solar on their roofs, but the new development is that all these home batteries can now be coordinated together to add up to a chunk of power that can be counted on.

What does that mean for us here? Blaine County has peak demand for electricity in the winter months, especially when the towns are full for the Christmas holidays and the chairlifts and snow guns are running. From information provided from Idaho Power, Ketchum sub-

station non-coincident peak loads have ranged from 42.5 MWs on 12/21/01 to 50.4 MWs 12/27/07. Elkhorn substation peak loads have ranged from 9.6 MWs 12/24/02 to 14.3 MWs 12/31/15. Therefore, a vital part of determining how much backup power is needed for us in an emergency would be a meaningful assessment of Winter Time Demand Response measures that could reduce unnecessary demand during an event. Smart meters are currently installed on all residences in the county, but have never been utilized as interactive demand response tools. Good demand response programs automate tiny changes that, when coordinated, add up to big demand reductions.

California’s state grid operator asked people to change thermostats by just 1-2 degrees to help meet extreme demands and prevent shutoffs. Electric water heaters can be switched off for a few hours and still provide hot water.

It is important to determine exactly how many megawatts of demand here could be reduced by emergency lowering of occupied residences’ thermostats to an acceptable temperature of 65-67 degrees, and of unoccupied structures to 55-60 degrees, as well as what load could be identified as non-emergency load, such as chairlifts, snow guns and decorative outdoor tree lighting, which could be taken off-line. If our north county peak load is estimated at 60 MWs, but 20 MWs can be provided for by home batteries, or smart thermostats that reduce temperatures, and demand response controls that turn off exterior Christmas tree lights, it will be a heck of a lot cheaper to provide backup batteries and generators which can take care of vital electrical loads.

Furthermore, installing such demand response measures now can help our community reduce our demand for coal-fired power in general.

https://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/from-pilot-to-permanent-green-mountain-powers-home-batterynetwork-is-sticking-around 1

https://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/california-outages-distributed-energys-grid-potential-barriers-to-access

Blaine County Commissioner Candidate

2

3 https://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/ferc-orders-grid-operators-to-open-wholesale-markets-to-distributed-energy-resources

OBITUARY

www.tidwellcommissionercampaign.com twitter: @kikitidwell

Kiki Tidwell

Paid For By Citizens For Kiki Tidwell, Cindy Mann Treasurer.

JEFFREY MILLER BRADFORD

Jeffrey Miller Bradford

J

effrey Miller Bradford, born Sept. 30, 1954, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away at his home in Ketchum, Idaho, on Oct. 15, 2020.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert, in March 1969; his mother, Rosemary, in October 2010; his wife, Kathleen ‘Casey,’ in May 2012; and his brother, David, in November 2013. He is survived by two brothers, Robert and Peter, and a sister Deborah.

Jeffrey will be remembered in part by his enthusiasm for life, his high energy, his unpredictable nature, and his never-ending quest to participate in the events surrounding him. But mostly he will be remembered by those who knew him for his love and commitment to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and his love for and commitment to his wife, Casey. His pastor shared that Jeff “really, really, really loved Jesus.” Jeff’s passion for sharing that love with others was a constant and was genuine.

For those who knew Jeff before his Lord “got ahold of him,” and his years as a young man living a “wild” life, his later years were a living example of 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

Friends are invited to a memorial service at noon, Friday, Oct. 23, 2020, at the Life Church in Hailey, Idaho, with a reception following. Burial will take place at the Ketchum Cemetery at 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to NAMI-WRV (National Alliance on Mental Illness-Wood River Valley), P.O. Box 95, Hailey, ID 83333. Arrangements are under the care of Wood River Chapel.

IN LOVING MEMORY

In loving memory of Taz

TAZ

16

Wood River Weekly

CHAMBER CORNER

•

October 21 - November 3, 2020

MIKE MCKENNA

Hard way Pipeline

Have A Safe Halloween

Hailey’s Halloween Guidance 2020

By Mike McKenna

D

ue to the public health challenges of the coronavirus, downtown Hailey will not be hosting the annual Halloween Hoopla this year. Unfortunately, there is no safe way to put on the popular event that hosts roughly 2,000 children and families each fall.

Some Hailey businesses, however, will still offer candy to their customers and many businesses will be decorated. Jane’s Artifacts is also putting on a Home Decorating Contest. Stop by the store on Main Street to sign up.

There are safe ways to enjoy Halloween. Here are some tips and guidelines from St Luke’s and the CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] to help you make the most out of the ghoulish holiday.

–Remember the 3 Ws: Wash your hands. Wear your mask. Watch your distance.

-–If sick or exposed to the virus, stay home, isolate and do not give out candy to trick-or-treaters.

–Stick to small groups, preferably just family.

–Any gathering should follow CDC guidelines and be appropriate for the level of spread in the community.

–Do not use a costume mask as a substitute for a protective cloth mask unless it’s made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that covers the mouth and nose and doesn’t leave gaps around the face.

–Do not wear a costume mask over a cloth mask.

This can be dangerous, making it hard to breathe. Instead, consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask.

Ideas for low-risk Halloween fun: Outdoor pumpkin carving. Throw a virtual Halloween contest. Find friends or family who can offer driveby trick-or-treating. Have your kids enjoy a piñata filled with candy instead of trick-or-treating. Decorate your home and yard.

Ways to make trick-or-treating safer: Establish safe ground rules and a safety plan ahead of time.

Don’t let kids reach into bowls or bags and touch multiple pieces of candy. Don’t share or trade candy, toys or bags—every child should carry his/ her own bag. Carry hand sanitizer and have kids

Steel Fencing

Kelly Wardell 208-309-0916

How To Play Sudoku

The Classic Sudoku is a number placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once.

CLASSIC SUDOKU See answer on page 10 clean hands periodically between houses. Leave a bowl of candy at the end of your porch, steps or sidewalk. At the end of the evening, sanitize any doorknobs, doorbells or high-touch areas. Let all the candy sit for three days before handling and eating.

The following activities are considered high risk: traditional trick-or-treating without any safety precautions. Crowded indoor or outdoor parties or haunted houses. Traveling to events outside of your own community.

While it may not be as easy or as normal as usual, there are still ways to safely enjoy Halloween this year. Thanks for doing your part to keep our community safe.

For more information, please contact The Chamber at Info@ValleyChamber.org, visit ValleyChamber.org or haileyidaho.com, or call (208) 788-3484.

CROSSWORD SPONSORED BY

THETRADER TRADER THE THE TRADER Consignment for the home

Consignment for the home

Consignment for the home

Wednesday - Friday 11 to 6 Saturday 11 to 4

TRADER EADER TRADER

Always available by appointment and if we’re here.

Wednesday through Saturday 11:00 to 5:00 Always available by appointment and if we’re here.

ent for the 720-9206 or 788-0216 signment forhome the home

720-9206 or 788-0216 509 S. Main Street Bellevue, Idaho

the home

509 S. Main Street • Bellevue, Idaho

Wednesday through Saturday Thursday Wednesday - Friday Wednesday - Friday 11:00to to 5:00 ednesday - Friday 11 to 611 to 6 available by appointment 11 to 6AlwaysSaturday Saturday Saturday and if we’re here.

Saturday 11 to 4 11 to 11 or to 788-0216 44 720-9206 11 to 4

Always available by appointment and if we’re here.

509 S. Main Street • Bellevue, Idaho Always available by le by appointment andappointment if we’re here. and if we’re here.

720-9206 or 788-0216 or S. 788-0216 -9206 or720-9206 788-0216 509 Main Street S. Main Street 09 S. Main509 Street Bellevue, Idaho Bellevue, Idaho Bellevue, Idaho

See answer on page 10

THE WOOD RIVER VALLEY 7-DAY WEATHER FORECAST IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Mostly Sunny 10%

high 57º

low 24º WEDNESDAY

Mostly Sunny 0%

high 43º low 19º THURSDAY

Partly Cloudy 20%

high 43º low 32º FRIDAY

AM Snow Showers 40%

high 42º low 15º SATURDAY

Partly Cloudy 20%

high 33º low 10º SUNDAY

Sunny 0%

high 36º low 18º MONDAY

Mostly Sunny 10%

high 41º low 22º TUESDAY

SKI. BIKE. LIVE!

Elevate your experience.

340 N Main Street in Ketchum sturtevants-sv.com • 726-4501