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WOOD RIVER WEEKLY

YOUR VOICE IN THE WOOD RIVER VALLEY

Free | April 6 - 19, 2022 | Vol. 3 - No. 7 | woodriverweekly.com

“There are risks and costs to action but they are far less than the long-range risks of comfortable inaction.”

GOOD-BYE, GOOD EATS – J o h n F. K e n n e d y

Since 1985, Perry’s Restaurant has been a staple of the Ketchum eatery landscape. It closes June 1 to make room for a mixed-use housing and commercial development. Photo credit: Perry’s Restaurant Facebook page

Popular Ketchum eatery Perry’s closing to make way for housing

By Eric Valentine

t’s after 5 a.m. on a Tuesday morning and Keith Perry is in the fourth decade of prepping his and his wife’s namesake restaurant to serve the patrons he knows and loves the hearty and thoughtful comfort foods they know and love. With less than two hours before the eatery opens for the day and less than two months before it closes for good, it’s not so early that the extroverted restaurateur can’t see some irony—and blessings—in all of this. The irony? In an industry that would benefit immensely from more housing in a resort community, it’s

Keith and Paula Perry, pictured here circa 1985, ask patrons to share their memories on social media. Image credit: Perry’s Restaurant Facebook page

a community housing development that would have displaced the restaurant had Keith and his wife Paula Perry not chosen the retirement option on life’s menu instead. In January of this year, Sun Valley resident Broderick Smith and Ketchum resident Carson Palmer, who purchased Perry’s commercial lot and two nearby vacant lots last year, announced plans to build a mixed-use commercial and residential development there. And that means the Perry’s First Avenue/Fourth Street building would be demolished. According to Keith Perry, he and his wife were given the option to relocate the restaurant elsewhere and receive some level of compensation that would go toward the costs of that relocation. Or, take the compensation and use it for their, now, retirement. “We had a five-year plan a few years ago to keep the restaurant going until we hit our 70s, and the ideal thinking was we’d sell the place to some young chef or couple who’d keep it going strong,” Keith Perry said. And then COVID hit … Has anyone out there ever tried selling a restaurant during a lockdown-level pandemic? You could call it a buyer’s market, but that’s because there are no buyers. “Not one call! Not even a ‘we might be interested,’” Perry said. It should be noted that Perry’s is an example of one of the eateries that weathered the pandemic storm well. Keith Perry said there were months that they were pulling in 40% above normal profits. So that raises a deeper and broader economics question, one whose answer is all about labor and where that labor can afford to live. “There’s no way we could have made it through (the pandemic) without my employees,” Perry said. Specifically, he’s talking about the “back of the house” workers. “Juan has been here since 1997 and Cesar since like

1990, and Henry and Elmer probably since 1999,” Perry lists off their names. “I don’t have any (retirement or semi-retirement) plans right now. My priority is making sure my workers get lined up with really good jobs.” And there’s the other side of the ironic service-industry coin—Perry said his phone is ringing off the hook with other restaurant managers calling to recruit his staff. “Twenty, maybe 25, calls so far,” Perry said. “And I have to commend the other restaurants out there. They all have labor shortages and could have tried to lure my workers. That’s another reason we decided to set a clear date when the restaurant is closing for good.” Perry, in a move that shows his degree of both business savvy and moral ethics, also is offering his employees a generous severance package should they remain with him until June 1, when the mom and pop closes shop for good. Editor’s Note: An excerpt from a post by an employee about actor Bruce Willis. Some content was edited for space and clarity. “I can’t say enough about how my time at Perry’s changed my life. They took a chance with me and hired me four months sober … And here’s my favorite memory: very fitting with the most recent news on our hero. There was a time when (Bruce) Willis came for lunch often and we all got to be very chatty with him and the family. My heart continued to skip a beat with each visit. I later found out he was friendly with me as he thought I was Mrs. Perry! Well, one day we were incredibly busy and the lunches were getting backed up big time … Bruce comes back to me and says … “What’s the hang-up today?” I explained we were a little backed up and could use a hand! … He dove right in! I watched as he announced the names and delivered the food and the look on the patrons’ faces said it all. So much fun! … And unforgettable.”

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NEWS

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APRIL 6 - 19, 2022

EVENTS, ARTS

LOST IN TRANSITION

NEWS

IN BRIEF

How can Treasure, Wood River valleys vie for festival supremacy? By Ken Stokes

Women’s Foundation Breaks Fundraising Ceiling: $348,000

Editor’s Note: With two relatively new, but high-profile events back to back in one not-very-populous state, Wood River Weekly asked contributing columnist Ken Stokes to cover both festivals. As a former Disney entertainment and branding executive, a longtime Valley (Wood River and Treasure) patron of the arts, and a current member of the Boise Philharmonic Board of Directors, Ken has the frame of reference to assess whether Idaho’s newest benchmark festivals are two world-class events or just one big, fun mess. And that means what follows is equal parts—more or less—objective news and personal (but qualified) opinion. Enjoy! Our story begins Spring is here, and that means that a statehouse-full of white male zealots (and the women content to walk two paces behind them) have been very busy ensuring that Idaho returns to the Dark Ages—or, at least to the Inquisition. A woman’s right to make her own health decisions is still under siege, as are civil rights for marginalized communities, but now librarians/censorship, public health regulations, the lawmaking process and the importance of science are on the docket (which is ironic given the emphasis on STEM). And the list goes on. Sure, not all far- Coffee Talks, hosted this year by George Prentice, has right initiatives became law, but there’s always become one of the more popular and high-profile programs at Sun Valley Film Festival. This year, indus2023. try heavyweights Amy Poehler and Woody Harrelson

(below) were guests. Photo credits: Ken Stokes Plot twist! It also marks the re-emergence of two gems (pun intended) on Idaho’s festival calendar— Treefort Music Fest and the Sun Valley Film Festival. That some of the festivals’ programming, subject matter and participants would be in the crosshairs of the legislature’s most controversial proposals is hardly a surprise. Both festivals delivered in spades in terms of artistry and entertainment, but in the area of activism, both need some “work in the woodshed.” After all, the music industry has a proud record of social activism. The film industry, not so much. It has a record of needing to be shamed into developing a conscience. Wouldn’t want to piss anybody off and hurt the gross, but that’ll continue to evolve in the wake of this year’s Oscars.

Was there a climax? Diversity of artists, programming and subject matter—a clear priority for both events—is an admirable, albeit passive, tactic to counter the aggressive campaigns of misinformation and willful ignorance employed by the Right. There’s a real opportunity for both festivals to highlight these issues at the tactical level. Let me pick one bill/issue: H.675 (the so-called ‘trans’ bill) and two events: one at Treefort, one at SVFF to assess the Left’s counterpunch. Treefort’s Dragfort Drag Brunch at Alefort Lounge—Sunday (12 noon). This was a terrific, intimate event with incredible energy and a great mix of demographics across age and lifestyle. There was a follow-up Queer Talk, which was the final event of Dragfort. But both were comparatively small, it was at the end of the festival, and it was in the dark. How I yearned for the performers to rally the crowd and, reminiscent of Shug Avery in The Color Purple, herd them to a celebration of happiness at a church or the Capitol. So timing is everything. Schedule the event coincident with Sunday Services or when legislators are apt to be at the Capitol. And how about jumping on the trendy drag storyteller bandwagon at Storyfort? SVFF’s After-Hours Shorts—Friday (10 p.m.). The final short film (11:15 p.m. screening time!) was the provocative “Starf*uckers”—a study of the devastating impact of predatory behavior by Hollywood executives and the exploitation of gay male teens. Beautifully crafted and acted, I only wish the story had been less ‘coastal’ and had been set in, say, a mens’ locker room at Penn State. The second half of the film is a revenge fantasy with a twist that’s wildly entertaining until it turns heartbreaking (spoiler alert) and the victim drops his coping mechanism of bravura and, wordlessly, communicates the full magnitude of the damage done by people who, to further their own agenda, torment others without any regard for their victims’ humanity. Our legislators should see this film, and the good news is they

can expense the ticket price as research. The disappointing thing is that this was an important film buried in the schedule and competing with festival-sponsored parties that ‘influencers’ were bound to attend. Maybe two-dozen people attended the screening. Sad. Segue to “The Power of the Dog”—Jane Campion’s celebrated period Western which was nominated for 12 Academy Awards and deals with homosexual self-hatred manifesting as manipulation and bullying, and also has a very surprising revenge twist. Wouldn’t it have been great to have snagged some Power of the Dog filmmakers (after all, the SVFF has a relationship with the New Zealand film industry, which produced Power of the Dog) and turned a midnight showing into a prime-time screening of both the short and the feature with a follow-up discussion billed as one of the festival’s wildly popular Coffee Talks. Hell, it could have been promoted as a benefit for LGBTQ+ filmmakers with premium pricing. It would have been a ‘must see’ with a sold-out house. The resolution My challenge to the event management for both festivals, in 2023, is to find ways to bring events which can serve as very visible counterarguments to the most draconian issues under consideration by our state legislators. It will make two beloved events transition from entertainment and toward having an important voice in social responsibility—a meal with two entrées. All without sacrificing any of the fun.

The Wood River Women’s Foundation is making Idaho nonprofits serving the Valley $348,000 richer in 2022. “To our delight 2022 proved to be a record-breaking funding year for WRWF,” said Terri Bullock, WRWF president. “Our generous philanthropic-minded members contributed close to $350,000 for Wood River nonprofits. This is more than $38,000 above what we awarded our previous record high fund in 2020. We are honored to collectively support those doing the work to deliver services throughout our community, especially in a difficult pandemic-driven environment.” Since its founding in 2005, WRWF has awarded 183 pooled grants surpassing $3 million to nonprofits throughout the Wood River Valley. This year, the more than 325 members of the foundation funded nonprofits that address housing, education, outdoor initiatives, and emergency, social and therapeutic services. New in 2022 is WRWF’s pilot Focus Grant 2022 (FG22). FG22 is a special-purpose grant of up to $200,000 over a two-year period created to address a pressing need in the Wood River Valley. In March of 2021, WRWF members chose “Closing the Opportunity Gap in Education.” The WRWF FG22 will award up to $100,000 in 2022 and an additional grant of up to $100,000 in 2023. WRWF members voted to award the first $100,000 for the creation of the Wood River Valley Early Learning Collaborative with the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children. WRWF anticipates investing another $100,000 in year two of this transformational collaborative. “Our grant-making process provides our members with a window into the important work being done by nonprofits in the Valley,” said Sandy McCullough, WRWF Grants co-chair. “We equip our members with the technical tools necessary to evaluate grant proposals and make informed decisions about where the pooled funds will be awarded and put to needed use.” What follows is the list of 2022 Pooled Grant Recipients, grant titles and amounts awarded: • ARCH Community Housing—Housing for Essential Workers $20,000 • Blaine County Charitable Fund—Emergency Assistance Grant Program $18,000 • Higher Ground Sun Valley—Higher Ground Cycling Program $18,275 • Idaho Trails Association—Youth Trail Program 2022 $6,400 • Ketchum Fire Department—Backcountry Rescue $20,000 • Kids Mountain Fund—Rotarippers Lease Package $6,500 • Men’s Second Chance Living—MSCL House Operations $20,000 • Swiftsure Equine Therapeutic Ranch—Safety Surround Wall $14,200 • The Advocates—Healthy Child Development Program $15,000 • The Alliance of Idaho—Support for Legal Services $20,000 • The Crisis Hotline—My Life Matters Enhancement $20,000 • The Hunger Coalition—The Value of Trust $20,000 • The Space Idaho—Forward Learning Scholars $18,900 • Wood River Fire & Rescue—Chain of Survival $18,526 The following hard-working organizations received smaller, unrestricted WRWF grants: • Kiwanis Club of Hailey $2,400 • Syringa Mountain School $2,400 • The Nature Conservancy $2,400 • Wood River Land Trust $2,400 • The Community Library $2,500 Based in Ketchum, Idaho, WRWF is a collective of women who pool their contributions in order to achieve greater community impact while advancing their philanthropic skills. All women are welcome to join and participate in assessing the dozens of applications received each year, and vote on the award recipients.

Airport Closed Thru Mid-May

Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) will be closed April 18 to May 17, airport officials have said. The month-long closure is required for extensive federal and airport funded capital improvement projects. Project details and updates can be found at www.iflysun.com. Or, contact the Airport Administration Office at (208) 788-4956 should you have any questions.

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NEWS

Papoose Club Helps Carry 4 Valley Charitable Causes

IN BRIEF

The Valley charity founded to help other Valley charities has named four local entities it will be providing with grant money this year. The Papoose Club provided the following information in a press release: • Blaine County Bots/Robotics World Tournament Four Wood River Middle School and High School teams qualified for the Robotics World Tournament this May in Dallas, Texas. They will compete against 50 countries at the tournament. The 15–18 year old team has been state champion seven years in a row. Papoose Club has awarded a grant toward travel expenses for the 13 Robotics students and four chaperones travelin with them. • Girls on the Run Southern Idaho The program supports approximately 150 girls to promote physical activity, life-building skills and self-confidence. The two annual fundraisers (Color Me Fearless 5K race and Lunafest) have been impacted by COVID. Papoose Club awarded a grant to cover programming costs for the Blaine County programs. Girls on the Run offers an 8–12 week program and is currently seeking volunteer coaches. • Blaine County Education Foundation (BCEF) BCEF requested funds for the Teen Parenting Program based out of Silver Creek High School. Papoose Club donated funds to be used for supplies and materials for the teen parents who attend Silver Creek High School in the hopes of keeping them in school. Supplies needed include formula, one bassinet, several Pak ‘N Play sets, diapers, wipes, activity mat, baby carrier, books and classes for new parents. • Hailey Public Library The library’s Summer Reading Program serves approximately 150 children. It runs from late May until the end of July and is designed to incentivize school-age kids to keep reading during the summer months. The program includes a kick-off party, goodie bags, a free book, and wrap-up celebration. Papoose Club awarded the grant to cover costs of the program and prizes.

Bruce Willis Retires From Acting, Battles Aphasia

The news was hard to believe and it came at that time of year not all stories are what they seem. But it was no April Fool’s joke, just sad news that’s a part of growing old for roughly 180,000 Americans each year. This year, Hollywood actor and Hailey resident/investor Bruce Willis was one of them. Aphasia is a disorder that results from damage to portions of the brain that are responsible for language. On March 30, Rumer Willis—the daughter of Willis and Demi Moore—posted the following announcement from her Instagram profile: “To Bruce’s amazing supporters, as a family we wanted to share that our beloved Bruce has been experiencing some health issues and has recently been diagnosed with aphasia, which is impacting his cognitive abilities. As a result of this and with much consideration, Bruce is stepping away from the career that has meant so much to him. “This is a really challenging time for our family and we are so appreciative of your continued love, compassion and support. We are moving through this as a strong family unit, and wanted to bring his fans in because we know how much he means to you, as you do to him. As Bruce always says, ‘Live it up’ and together we plan to do just that. “Love, Emma, Demi, Rumer, Scout, Tallulah, Mabel, & Evelyn Willis” Planet Haileywood During the 1990s, Willis and Moore not only resided in Hailey, they were the town’s biggest investors, too, buying up and sprucing up a number of landmark properties, most notably The Mint. After the couple divorced, their footprint dissipated some, but even today Willis seems to have perhaps a low profile in high-profile developments, such as the private airport proposed in Fairfield.

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Seven members of the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation Freestyle Team competed at the 2022 USSA Junior Nationals. Sylas Barrett, Erik Babcock, Tillie Babcock, Will Hausmann, Drake Lo4 vlien, Nic Rubenstein and Marek Ruttler all made the trip to Utah Olympic Park to compete amongst the top U18s in the country. “I was really happy to see everything come together for our athletes to qualify and compete at this level of competition,” said John Grigsby, SVSEF Freestyle head coach and program director. “They worked incredibly hard all season and to have the opportunity to go up against the best is so great for their growth as athletes and competitors.” SVSEF’s Erik Babcock and Nic Rubenstein posted some of the highest air scores in the competition and missed the final by just 6 points. Teammates Will Hausman and Drake Lovlien were the two youngest competitors to rank within the top 80 men in the country and qualify for the Junior Nationals at just 13 years old. Having won every dual he’s entered this season, Erik Babcock was once again primed to podium in Sunday’s Duals event when, with 32 duals to go, strong winds estimated at 55-60 mph forced cancellation for the safety of the athletes. Babcock is undefeated in Duals this season.

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NEWS

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APRIL 6 - 19, 2022

STATE, ELECTIONS

CANDID CANDIDATES 2.0

“We ask the important questions and listen carefully until we understand exactly where your financial life stands today, and where you’d like it to be tomorrow.”

Eric Parker. Photo credit: Parker for Idaho

Part 2 of a two-part series on District 26 state legislature campaigns

Suzanne Hazlett, MBA, CIMA®, CFP® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM Certified Investment Management Analyst®

By Eric Valentine

Editor’s Note: What follows is the second of two articles on the District 26 state legislature race up for grabs this year. Two Republican candidates and one Democratic candidate and one Independent candidate have filed and will now campaign until Election Day, Nov. 8. Rather than do traditional campaign stories that sometimes feel more like a marketing piece than reporting or commentary, Wood River Weekly opted to send candidates a link to a Google Form with a simple list of questions about state issues. Here are the responses from Republican Eric Parker and Democrat Ron Taylor. Which bill (or new law) if signed by Gov. Little would impact the lives of District 26 residents most POSITIVELY and how so?

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Taylor: SB 1373 Funding for Full Day Kindergarten. Early childhood literacy is proven to enhance academic achievement, higher graduation opportunities, and workforce skills as an adult. While District 26 does provide for all-day kindergarten, the Idaho Constitution requires a fair and equitable education to be provided for all of Idaho’s children. Parker: Grocery tax repeal. Gas tax cut. The working-class families need relief from inflation and high prices. Which bill (or new law) if signed by Gov. Little would impact the lives of District 26 residents most NEGATIVELY and how so? Taylor: H741 Increases the state sales tax from 6% to 7.85%, which would make the base sales tax the highest in the country. Adding local resort taxes on top would be extraordinarily prohibitive in an already difficult economic period. Taking away property tax revenue to local governments, but not school bond and levy debts, would increase hard- Ron Taylor. Photo credit: Janie Davidson ship for local governments to function and provide emergency services. Parker: This new Rice tax plan will kill business and hear what their concerns are. and with levies and bonds you will still end up with property tax and almost 2% higher sales tax. Parker: Grocery tax repeal. It’s wanted by most Idahoans and nonpartisan. Which bill (or new law) is an example of unnecessary, partisan politicking that you would avoid If you could only attend three (3) of the followever sponsoring and why? ing Valley events, which ones would you choose? Taylor: HCR 51 Recognizing the 50th anniversaTaylor: Fourth of July Parade, Trailing of the ry of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Sheep, Writers’ Conference This is an example of a bill that failed due to partisan politicking that I would have sponsored. This Parker: Fourth of July Parade, Labor Day Parade, simple resolution celebrates the SNRA’s majestic Trailing of the Sheep beauty and honors those who have worked to protect this public access for all people to enjoy. Check five (5) of the following general areas in which you will be most effective and/or most foParker: HB436 (Little’s “tax cut”) because it does cused during the next two-year term. nothing for regular Idahoans and it was just politicking in an election year. Taylor: 1st Amendment rights, Education, Fire, Healthcare, Water If you could only sponsor one bill (proposed already or not), what would it be and why? Parker: 1st Amendment rights, 10th Amendment rights, Criminal justice, Education, Housing, Water Taylor: It is a little early for me to say what I would sponsor. I intend to listen to the voters this summer

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OPINION

CAITLIN JOHNSTO

Target Is Not Russia But Chin

he Pentagon has produced its latest National Defense Strategy (NDS), a report made every four years to provide the public and the government with a broad overview of the US war machine’s planning, posturing, developments and areas of focus. You might assume with all the aggressive brinkmanship between Moscow and the US power alliance this year that Russia would feature as Enemy Number One in the 2022 NDS, but you would be assuming incorrectly. The US “Defense” Department reserves that slot for the same nation that’s occupied it for many years now: China. Antiwar’s Dave DeCamp writes the following: The full NDS is still classified, but the Pentagon released a fact sheet on the document that says it “will act urgently to sustain and strengthen deterrence, with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) as our most consequential strategic competitor and the pacing challenge for the Department.” The fact sheet outlines four priorities for the Pentagon: 1. Defending the homeland, paced to the growing multi-domain threat posed by the PRC 2. Deterring strategic attacks against the United States, Allies, and partners 3. Deterring aggression, while being prepared to prevail in conflict when necessary, prioritizing the PRC challenge in the Indo-Pacific, then the Russia challenge in Europe 4. Building a resilient Joint Force and defense ecosystem China Identified as Top ‘Threat’ in New National Defense Strategy US military activity near China increased significantly in 2021 by Dave DeCamp@DecampDave #China https://t.co/L8gkis0WTF pic.twitter.com/22wbJFyEF6 — Antiwar.com (@Antiwarcom) March 29, 2022 “The Pentagon says that while China is the focus, Russia poses ‘acute threats’ because of its invasion of Ukraine,” DeCamp writes, showing the empire’s view of Moscow as a second-tier enemy. Ahead of a meeting with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has made some comments which clearly illustrate the US-centralized empire’s actual problem with Moscow. “We, together with you, and with our sympathisers will move towards a multipolar, just, democratic world order,” Lavrov said to the Chinese government on Wednesday. And that right there ladies and gentlemen is the real reason we’ve been hearing so much hysterical shrieking about Russia these last five or six years. It’s never been about Russian hackers. Nor about a Kremlin pee pee tape. Nor about Trump Tower. Nor about GRU bounties in Afghanistan. Nor about Manafort, Flynn, Bannon, Papadopoulos or any other Russiagate Surname of the Week. It’s not even actually about Ukraine. Those have all been narrative-shaping constructs manipulated by the US intelligence cartel to manufacture support for a final showdown against Russia and China to prevent the emergence of a multipolar world. The US government has had a policy in place since the fall of the Soviet Union to prevent the rise of any powers which could challenge its imperial agendas for the world. During the (first) Cold War the strategy promoted by empire managers like Henry Kissinger was to court China out of necessity to pull it away from the USSR, which was when we saw business ties between China and the US lead to immense profits for certain individuals in both nations and the influx of wealth which now has China on track to surpass the US as an economic superpower. Once the USSR ended, so too did the need to remain on friendly terms with China, and subsequent decades saw a

sharp pivot into a much more adve relationship with Beijing.

Speaking at the Bloomberg New omy Forum, Hillary Clinton admit was an expectation in Washington would have no choice but to beco West’s junior partner due to the fea na could take over the Russian Fa /1https://t.co/pJQeF0eCxf — Artyom Lukin (@ArtyomLuki vember 20, 2021

In what history may one day view US empire’s greatest strategic blund pire managers forecasted the acqu of post-soviet Russia as an imperial state which could be weaponized a the new Enemy Number One in Chi stead, the exact opposite happened. Former Secretary of State Hillary ton told the Bloomberg New Ec Forum last year that she’d “heard fo that Russia would become more w to move toward the west, more wil engage in a positive way with Euro UK, the US, because of problems border, because of the rise of China that’s not what occurred. “We haven’t seen that,” Clinton “Instead what we’ve seen is a con effort by Putin maybe to hug China The empire’s expectation that M would come grovelling to the im throne on its own meant that no rea was expended trying to establish go and win over its friendship. NAT kept on expanding and the empire creasingly aggressive and belligeren games of global conquest. This err led to the strategist’s ultimate nigh of having to fight for global domi against two separate powers at onc cause empire architects incorrectl dicted that Moscow would end up f Beijing more than it fears Washingt tandem between China’s economic and Russia’s military power that e have been pointing to for years ha gotten more and more intimate. And now here we are with Russi Chinese officials openly discussin plans to create a multipolar world Chinese pundits crack jokes about empire’s transparent ploys to turn B against Moscow over the Ukraine sion:

Can you help me fight your friend I can concentrate on fighting you la — CGTN LIU Xin (@LiuXininB March 19, 2022

On the empire’s grand chessboard sia is the queen piece, but China king. Just as with chess it helps to ta your opponent’s strongest piece to easily pursue checkmate, the US e would be well advised to try and China’s nuclear superpower frien as Consortium News editor-in-chi Lauria recently put it, “ultimately re Yeltsin-like puppet to Moscow.” Basically all we’re looking at in t jor international news stories of ou is the rise of a multipolar world cr headlong into an empire which h poused the belief that unipolar do tion must be retained at all cost, e it means flirting with the possibilit very fast and radioactive third world This is the Hail Mary pass of t hegemon. Its last-ditch effort to control before forever losing any c at it. Many anti-imperialist pundits regularly seem quite confident that fort will fail, while I personally think forecasts may be a bit premature. Th the chess pieces are moving it defi does look like there’s a plan in plac I don’t think they’d be orchestratin plan if they didn’t believe it had a c to succeed. One thing that does seem clear the only way the empire has any cha stopping the rise of China is by man that will be both highly disruptive a istentially dangerous for the entire If you think things are crazy now, ju wait until the imperial crosshairs m Beijing.

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W O O D R I V E R W E E K LY

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APRIL 6 - 19, 2022

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W O O D R I V E R W E E K L Y • A P R I L 6 - 1 9 , 2 0 2 2

Fishing R epoRt

COMM ENT ARY

NO BONES ABOUT IT THE “WEEKLY” FISHING REPORT FOR APRIL 6 - 19 FROM PICABO ANGLER

ost area fishing is closed this week. The exceptions are the Little Wood and Big Lost rivers and area reservoirs, which stay open all year. These are wonderful fisheries and with the right weather conditions anglers can find Midge and Baetis hatches with fish working dry flies. If there are no hatches, nymphing with a micro pattern will produce fish. The color red is a go-to whether it’s a Copper John or Zebra Nymph. Magic Reservoir is the Valley’s most overlooked fabled water. The reservoir grows a lot of big fish and they are not that hard to catch. Spring evenings here can present incredible dry-fly opportunities and many an angler has been turned into a reservoir dog by this body of water. Fish the reservoir anywhere from the bank, any time of the day, by casting streamers on a dry line with a long leader, or an intermediate sinking line with a short leader. Move around and try to locate hot spots. Anglers will also nymph the banks, either stripping large nymph patterns or fishing midge patterns under strike indicators when the fish are near the surface. Bass and perch are in the mix, too, and can make for an incredible bite some days. These fish are also great table fair and wonderful in a smoker. Be aware in the Big Wood arm of Magic that you are fishing below the signage indicating where the reservoir and Big Wood River meet. The Rock Creek area is now closed and considered part of the Big Wood River. This is normally a stillwater section, but the Big Wood canyon above the reservoir falls under Big Wood regulations and is closed until Opening Day, May 28. To be safe, just stay below the signage and be sure you are in stillwater. There is bank access all around the reservoir with plenty of places to go. Google Earth is a great tool to use when exploring this area. There are dirt roads all around the reservoir making it easy to find your own little spot for the day. Fish Creek Reservoir can be a mud bog in the spring, but the fish in here grow stout. There are some decent brook trout in here as well. The catch rate can be slower than nearby reservoirs. Fish near the inlets and the points and be willing to do some walking. Be careful driving if any of the reservoir is exposed. What looks dry may not be! Fish streamers and nymphs from the banks. Happy fishing, everyone!

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A ‘Go-Bag’ For Your Dog

By Fran Jewell

O! It’s not a carry-along poop bag, although having poop bags is a MUST! A “go-bag” for your dog is a bag that you can put all of your dog-related training and first-aid equipment in. It should be monitored regularly to be sure you have what you need so you are never anxiously looking for something AFTER you have left the house. I have “go-bags” for different types of training. I have a general obedience bag that many of you have seen when I do lessons that includes different leashes, collars, chewing objects, and a muzzle. I have another that just has tracking equipment. I have one that has all the Canine Good Citizen goodies I need to do evaluations. And, I have another that stays in the car all the time with some very general first-aid items. I always bring extra water—more than I would need to drink. You might consider one for “water sports” if you take your dog with you when you go to the lake, on the boat or to the river. Items in that bag might include: 1) a life vest that has a handle on it; 2) a long line that is at least 15 to 20 feet and a short leash about 6 feet long so your dog can remain in control on a public beach requiring a leash; 3) a towel to dry off a wet or dirty dog before getting back in the car or a boat; 4) dog sun block if you have a white dog with pink skin. Some come in sprays or lotion and may require re-application if your dog swims; 5) a Swiss bell for your dog’s collar that should be worn on any dog that may be in a wooded or wilderness area to help you find your dog and to keep other animals away from your dog; 6) POOP BAGS; 7) a dog power bar for extra energy; and 8) a collapsible water bowl. These can be

found in many places. If you hike with your dog regularly, you might have just a general bag, which could even be a doggie backpack that stays in your vehicle. That bag should have: 1) a long leash or retractable leash, especially if you have a small dog, to keep him close and safe from overhead predators such as eagles and some hawks. Even if you have a big dog, a 6-foot leash is high on my recommendation list and required in the national forests during the summer. 2) first-aid items such as an ace bandage, cotton gauze pads and vet wrap to hold it on, Benadryl in the event of a sting or allergic reaction (ask your vet about dosage), a gentle pain reliever such as Traumeel ,which is a homeopathic, and Rescue Remedy for stress or trauma. Ask your veterinarian for other items that would be helpful to carry; 3) carry training treats and maybe a sample of unopened dog food in the event you are unable to get home on time. I take dry treats or kibble that can last a while in your pack; 4) a Swiss bell for your dog’s collar; 5) keep a selection of collars that work best for your hiking; 6) doggie power bars for a nutritious snack; 7) A glow stick that can be attached to your dog’s pack in the event your hike gets later than expected; 8) POOP BAGS; and 9) a collapsible water bowl. Be courteous and RESPSONBLE. There is nothing more repelling and disgusting than to see dog poop everywhere you hike! It’s unhealthy for wildlife, too. A good doggie backpack doesn’t hold too much because weight in the pack should always be considered. It has plenty of ways to adjust size, good padding and snaps to attach a glow stick. There are so many great ones on the market that are well built and will last the

SCIENCE OF PLACE

FRAN JEWELL

When we hike, Kalidor carries his own water, a leash, a simple first-aid kit, glow stick and poop bags. I also find that when he carries a pack, he stays closer and on the trail. Photo credit: Fran Jewell

life of your dog. Just as you would prepare for your hikes or outings, prepare for your dog, too. Having a go-bag is truly essential to having a great outdoor experience or training event. 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.

HANNES THUM

SONG OF THE MEADOWLARK

BY HANNES THUM

t can be hard to know what to wear this time of year. The temperature swings daily from one side of freezing to another, and the jacket that I wear in the morning quickly starts to feel pretty silly once I’m sitting in the sun on a south-facing hillside and seriously considering if I need any clothes at all beyond those legally required; the T-shirt that I wear in the garden in the afternoon feels great until the sun quietly slips behind Carbonate and I suddenly start casting about for any kind of insulating cover just as surely as if I had jumped back in time a few months to the cold, dark nights of early January. We have arrived at that peculiar time of year when we crank the car heater in the morning but roll the windows down for a breeze after lunch. When snow squalls can surprise the high country while people sip summery cocktails on the porch down in town. What an odd time to be alive. The signs of spring are coming rapidly now. Recently, I took a walk through the woods with my students and asked them to spread out and search for signs of springtime and to holler out when they find one. Soon, the forest was all chaos of yells and overlapping kids’ voices as they shouted, “found some new green shoots over here!” or, “the ice is gone from the creek!” back and forth. There was plenty to notice, if you want to. Then, out of the corner of my eye, I watched a small group of deer slipping stealthily out of the woods away from us and across the creek and up a sage-covered hillside. The deer, too, showed springtime in their bodies and in their movement. The hair on their hides showed the pale, white clumps of what was left of the winter coat that was almost molted off. They hadn’t felt too much need to move very far and they resumed their easygoing grazing in the warm sun a little ways away – this is a far different time of year than the dead of winter when their lives were defined by cold, fear, and starvation. The river is taking on a bit of color as every stream and rivulet upstream begins to shed its snowpack and move sediment down. Dust already comes up from my footsteps. The ground is warmer. The vultures are back. And then, there’s the song of the meadowlark. Suddenly, they too are back to their singing on tops of the bushes and snags in the south valley. I hear them, always, before I can see them on long morning walks through the sage hills. There’s nothing like that sound. And there’s few surer signs of spring in my world. I have never been able to find the right words to describe the mead-

Western Meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta). Photo credit: Kevin Cole, accesssed via wikimedia

owlark’s song. Whistles? Warbles? Gurgling warbly whistles? I simply can’t get words to fit. Language has its limits. Or, at least, mine does. It strikes me that there is more going on than we have figured out quite how to take proper note of. Hannes Thum is a Wood River Valley native and has spent most of his life exploring what our local ecosystems have to offer. He currently teaches science at Sun Valley Community School.

W O O D R I V E R W E E K LY

MONEY MATTERS

•

SUZANNE HAZLETT

EQUITY PERFORMANCE DURING TIGHTENING CYCLES BY SUZANNE HAZLETT, MBA®, CIMA®, CFP®

he Federal Reserve raises interest rates or tightens the monetary policy to slow down overheated economic growth. Increasing interest rates elevates the cost of borrowing and effectively reduces its attractiveness. Within the public equity market, there are 11 sectors or investment subsets. Financial analysts and economists use these sectors to classify economic activity by grouping companies engaged in similar business activities. Following past rate hikes, equity sector performance varied, but there were constants. For example, most sectors were positive one and two years out from the first rate increase. The Technology, Energy, and Industrials sectors outperformed, on average, one year later from the time rates began to rise. Communications, Consumer Discretionary, and Consumer Staples have been the worst performing sectors in the same period. Many believe that financial stocks always perform well during increasing rate cycles because banks benefit from higher rates. Even so, historically, other sectors have tended to outperform. Looking beyond sectors to company size or market cap and Suzanne Hazlett, MBA, style as determinants of potential performance—small-cap CIMA®, CFP®, founder of companies and growth stocks, in general, have experienced HAZLETT WEALTH MANthe highest return one year following the first rate increase. In AGEMENT, is a Certified comparison, value stocks trailed the broad market and growth Investment Management stocks. Analyst® and CERTIFIED History teaches us that stocks generally continue to perform FINANCIAL PLANNERTM well two years out from the first rate increase, though shifts in professional. sector leadership are expected to occur over the cycle. When the Fed starts raising rates, the markets have proven to be hospitable for equity investors for the next 12–24 months before economic conditions begin to slow enough to increase the probability of a recession. KEY TAKEAWAYS: • There have been several rate hike cycles in the U.S. in the last 40 years. • A different set of economic circumstances drove each rate hike cycle. • In most cases, equity markets tended to have positive returns one and two years out from the first rate hike. • Historically, Technology, Energy, and Industrials tended to have the highest returns compared to Communications, Consumer Discretionary, and Consumer Staples. • Investors in the stock market should be confident that markets don’t fall apart just because of increasing interest rates. HAZLETT WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC 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 are offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. No investing strategy can guarantee that your objectives will be met. Additional risks are associated with investing in an individual equity sector, including limited diversification. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. HAZLETT WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC is located at 675 Sun Valley Road, Suite J1 + J2 Ketchum, Idaho 83340 208.726.0605. HazlettWealthManagement.com

INSPIRATIONS FROM MY HEART

Beyond The Falls

BY DOVE

ust south of Innsbruck, Austria, is a small village called Neustift im Stubaital. Above this village is a grand waterfall called the Grawa Falls. When you enter this area, a peace so profound comes over you and you just want to sit in the energy. I have been lucky enough to have this experience several times. The University of Salsburg made a study of the energy in this area, and it has been proven that just sitting for an hour in the mist has very healing properties and reduces stress greatly. The Austrians, being very interested in health, have built rows and rows of wooden recliners so you can relax in the energy of the falls. It truly is one of the most delightful experiences. There is little parking and there is a bus that runs every half hour that drops you off and picks you up. No charge. I wanted to share this energy with you because I know that so many of us are feeling the need to just remove ourselves from the energy of the current political environment. I would suggest that we have plenty of waterfalls that would exude an equal healing energy. Water is such a sacred resource and being in its presence is a gift that we should make time for. Honor the water, connect with it in a quiet way, and see what the energy has to say. You can communicate with any energy if you just get quiet, release doubt and ego that says you can’t, and listen. I try to make time

DOVE

each day to communicate with the nature around me and it fills my soul. The pussy willows are just starting to open and there is one particular variety that is always first. I resist the urge to pick them and allow them to continue on their journey and settle for just giving them a little pet. We could create peace if all of us would stop our world for a little time every day to honor nature, connect with the energy and absorb it. There is no easier way to create peace within. Creating peace within ourselves is the quickest way to create peace on the planet. According to spiritual information I have encountered, one person who is holding a positive space can neutralize the energy of 100,000 unconscious beings in negativity. We can have joy, peace, health and abundance if we all just take time every day to feel the energy of the water. Cherish it; it is a living energy. You will benefit from the time spent and so will the planet. It is going to take every one of us holding the energy of peace to evolve beyond the daily drama we are confronted with, but again, it is your choice. Where are you going to put your focus? We must unite and make peace the dominant frequency. Let us give up all forms of separation and just realize we are all part of the same whole. What happens to each of us affects us all. Be the soothing energy of the water and stand for truth. We are at a critical juncture in history. Let us make the right choice to serve one another. Blessings. Dove

APRIL 6 - 19, 2022

ON LIFE’S TERMS

JOELLEN COLLINS

LESSONS: SERIOUS, SILLY, AND SIGNIFICENT By JoEllen Collins

day well spent is one where I encounter a new lesson or insight and add it to the positive experiences I enjoy. I gained both during my recent stay in San Francisco. Although I have a wonderful daughter and friends here in Idaho, I try to spend as much time as possible with my other daughter and her family, including my grandchildren. I cherish the moments with them and my extended family in San Francisco and the Bay Area. I am home now, in my other desired place, cuddling my dog and catching up on almost two months of absence. My heart is full. I am compelled to share some lessons from my visit to California. The most emotionally significant is learning what many grandmas do, that the babies and toddlers, the loves of our lives, are growing up and independent. This does NOT mean they love me less or that I will force them to react to me the way they did when I would spend time playing with them. I used to sit on the floor making Lego and Playmobile cities or stumble outside throwing balls to my 6-year-old: when I finally caught one my grandson threw to me, he said. “Oh, Bibi, you’re a natural!” This klutz, moi, had never been described as such. Hours with my granddaughter were spent with JoEllen Collins—a longtime arts and reading and such roles for me, in nasty resident of the Wood River makeup, as the evil queen confronting the beau- Valley— is an Idaho Press tiful and imagined future princess. They both en- Club award-winning columjoyed the series we created based on a character nist, a teacher, writer, fabric named ISHTAH, who was a neglected garbage artist, choir member and pile in an abandoned dump (pre recycling). From unabashedly proud grandma this pile of discarded books, skateboards, love known as “Bibi Jo.” letters and music, Ishtah had magically inherited a soul. His favorite holiday was, of course, Halloween, where the wind might blow him near trick-or-treating kids who thought he was someone in costume. I must adjust to my changing role, although I am still Bibi, the loving and supportive grandma. Now I sit through Little League practices and games where I shiver in some San Francisco very cold, late afternoons. I can delight in seeing my almost 13-year-old as shortstop preventing a base steal or my 8-year-old as the only girl on her team, ponytail flying, when she steals to second base after being walked to first. What an unexplainable joy! Among other happy lessons was that the family introduced me to Wordle. Now, along with millions, I get to play this and share my results with them. Finally, I learned the new, “politically correct” word for the homeless. The “new” term is the unhoused. I don’t know how much this “more correct” reference will help the great numbers of street dwellers. However, I have read of hopeful news about a very difficult challenge, which I will have to save for another column. Something is being done in this wealthy area to begin to improve the conditions and alleviate the suffering of the unhoused. So, lessons learned.

COWBOY POETRY

BRYCE ANGELL

Don’t Spare The Words

My friend and I were looking for a quiet place to eat. We’d sold the cows and grabbed our check. Our day was near complete. We’d driven my old Chevy ‘bout two hundred miles from home. We hadn’t seen a bath and neither head had used a comb. A hint of cow manure was rising up from both our boots. We fit the picture of two worn-out, hungry cowboy coots. We both preferred The Coffee Shop, at home so far away. But we settled for a fancy inn that advertised “Buffet.” The maître d’ looked down on us. Said, “Move along, old men.” His voice spoke with authority so moving was our plan. But our legs were sore and swollen and they showed the years of wear. We sure don’t break no record speed when using old Shank’s Mare. I looked the young man straight ahead, then gave him my stink-eye. I said, “We don’t mean much to you and think I know just why. “You’re primping in a new blue suit. Your beak at 45. No one has taught you manners, yet respect is still alive. “So, let this old man tell you just how much you oughta know. And maybe if you’re smart enough you’ll use this chance to grow. “The beef, which you’ve been serving here, is more than chunks of meat. Before they were a tenderloin, they walked on all four feet. “My friend and I raise beef, you know. Try kicking that about. I doubt you know that cows eat hay and where the crap comes out. “The spuds you place beside the meat are usually mashed or fried. They’re grown by men who work the land and raise their crops with pride. “This job you now rely on, son, depends on men like us. Not to mention all the food you eat. Consider that a plus! “So, when you call us old men, youngster, do it with a smile. And keep your fingers crossed that we’ll be raising beef awhile. “I’m sorry that our boots are kinda grungy, in a way. But tonight we’ll both be dining at your fancy food buffet.” – 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.

W O O D R I V E R W E E K L Y • A P R I L 6 - 1 9 , 2 0 2 2

COLUMN

WILL (SMITH) POWER By Eric Valentine

or April Fool’s, I was going to use this column to pen a fake apology letter from Will Smith. In it, he would announce his resignation from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and a reduction in his filmmaking workload, so he’d have more time for therapy instead. Then, on Friday, Smith beat me to the punch— pun intended. In the real-life letter he wrote himself, the Oscar-winning, slap-happy actor apologized—a little more sincerely than the first two times for, in his words, “shocking, painful, and inexcusable,” and in the law’s words, “felony assault and battery” of comedian and awards presenter Chris Rock on live TV. That’s a good, good thing. Yet the multi-layered partially rotting onion the Oscars telecast delivered to America’s moral, cultural doorstep still needs more peeling. And it might make some people cry. What follows are some critical issues this episode taught us—or can teach us—as the incident resolves into the recesses of our collective PTSD, on the scale of somewhere between the terrorist attacks on 9/11 and that Super Bowl wardrobe malfunction shortly thereafter. Conspiracy Thinking Although in the first instant slap-gate seemed like a goofy comedy bit, it only took a matter of seconds to realize it wasn’t. How can we know? For starters, let’s stop calling it a slap. Smith did in fact hit Rock with an open hand, like a slap. But it was hardly that kind of slap. Smith’s wind up, arm speed, body mass, and pinpoint accuracy makes it a “strike” or a “blow” if we want to accurately describe the matter rather than gaslight it. How Rock, nearly 60, managed to only take a half step backward and—though visibly stunned—just Taylor Swift shake it off and announce the Best Documentary winner is befuddling, and impressive. By the time Smith returned to his seat, he shouted from the depths of his inner hell a command at Rock. Then again, screaming it, with an F-bomb embedded both times, all on national TV. The incident was so clearly real, it became surreal and brought officers from the Los Angeles Police Department backstage to inform Rock he could press criminal charges. Still, some folks think it was a publicity stunt. Simply, no. Smith and Rock and the Academy—whose existence relies on its credibility—would never take that much legal, financial, and moral risk for so little reward. The surreal nature of the incident affords you a moment to think unrealistically. Now, come back to reality, because this incident is probably more important than you think it is. Bald Statues Matter It almost sounds rather cool to say the Oscars, the Hollywood elite, and their movie biases do not affect you.

But just because you don’t care about something doesn’t mean it doesn’t matter. More than 15 million people tuned in to watch the show, and that’s a down year compared to pre-pandemic. Personally, I’m inspired by at least a few acceptance speeches each year. Ask people within the deaf community whether the Academy’s accolades for “CODA” or deaf actor Troy Kotsur’s acceptance speech for Best Actor in a Supporting Role matters. Listen to the unblemished gems delivered by Jessica Chastain (Best Actress, “The Eyes of Tammy Faye”) and Ariana DeBose (Best Actress in a Supporting Role, “West Side Story”) and think how anyone marginalized and/or suicidal might be better off if they were to see them perform their roles. You see, the Academy matters, not because of the schwag bag we never get to see, the Vanity Fair party we never get to attend, or the red carpet attire most of us cannot afford to buy. It matters in the same way Meryl Streep’s character in “Devil Wears Prada” says the fashion industry matters when Anne Hathaway’s character, looking lumpy in a cerulean blue sweater, has just laughed inappropriately in a fashion magazine meeting with industry gurus anxiously discussing which belt goes best with a particular outfit. She half-apologizes, “Sorry, I’m still learning this stuff.” Streep then proceeds to school Hathaway in a classic monologue that ends with the line, “That blue you’ve got on represents billions of dollars and countless jobs, and it’s sort of comical how you think you made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry, when really you’re wearing a sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room, from a pile of … stuff.” Ditto for the motion pictures, even the ones you didn’t see or didn’t like. Sticks and Stones Quickly, after seeing Smith’s insane reaction to Rock’s words, many began to explain the assault and battery crime as a man protecting his woman. Jada Pinkett-Smith’s stylish buzz cut was not the result of total hair loss from treatment for a life-threatening illness. It was a choice she made to manage her bout with alopecia, a condition where sometimes sections of hair can fall out. The joke was pedestrian, not part of the script, and put Rock in the insult-comic category when he’s actually one of the most insightful comedians of the past 30 years. Objectively, it draws awkward attention to a person’s appearance with vapid comedic payoff, if any. In addition, context is everything. Jada received rave reviews on the red carpet and Rock’s reference was to “GI Jane,” a film character played by a young, svelte Demi Moore whose similar style hair triggered a hair fashion fad. Compared to nearly every other joke made at an individual that night and at every single award show in that industry, Rock’s

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joke was not even offensive, categorically. It may be personally offensive to the Smiths, but that’s on them to figure out. Smith’s wife did not require physically violent protection that night because she was never in harm’s way. But Will and Jada’s egos sure were. Not because of Rock (that’d be victim blaming), but because the Smiths were treated that night like royalty. And then, they both acted like it, as their little prince watched on and shouted out to the Twitterverse about his dad’s crime, “That’s how we do it!” Black-on-Black Crime The real issue here is not about what triggered one person’s excessive and vulgar outburst. The real issue is how quickly Americans solve problems with violence and how we let our ego—not our body—drive us to violence. Because Smith and Rock are both Black men, it prompts the question of whether Smith would have hit, say, Ricky Gervais, a white man who has hosted a number of Golden Globes award shows using scathing—and hilarious— jokes about people in the audience. Would Smith have even gotten out of his seat if The Rock made the joke, rather than Chris Rock? Would it be understandable if Smith hit one of the three female hosts had they made the joke that night? Does the incident inspire more bigoted beliefs and specious arguments about things like Black-on-Black crime and Black Lives Matter? Did the Smiths’ polyamorous relationship contribute to Will’s lashing out at Rock? Slap-gate doesn’t exist in a vacuum, it exists across a spectrum of contexts, surely one or more of which you are in. The belief that a man must violently protect his woman—over stuff that was said—is a therapeutically removable, egotistical behavior rooted in patriarchy and it kills roughly 4,000 women every year in domestic violence disputes. Most of those deaths were probably not the result of self-defense. The deaths were more likely the result of something similar to the toxic masculinity demonstrated by Smith. And that’s the only part of this Rock got wrong. Rock’s only apology should be to those 4,000 women for letting his ego not press felony assault and battery charges against Will Smith. And the Academy should respond to Smith’s resignation by demanding he pay them $20 million—the typical price tag for Smith starring in a movie. Then, the organization that uses motion pictures to help protect liberties and freedoms could make a donation to any charity dedicated to preventing 4,000 women from dying before the Oscars show next year. Now that would be the best story, and the most meaningful award, the industry could ever produce.

SENIOR CONNECTION

The Senior Connection Re-Opens!

he Senior Connection re-opened Monday, March 7, and has been bustling with activity since. From our congregate lunches to fitness classes, live music and more, we’re thrilled to welcome the Blaine County community back to our center. April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month across the United States, and this month we’re celebrating our treasured volunteers who commit themselves daily to serving our Blaine County seniors. We invite the community to visit the Senior Connection and learn more about our services, programs and volunteer opportunities we can offer you. You may find that volunteering with the Senior Connection and the sense of satisfaction that comes with supporting our senior community is good for your health! A wise man once said, “The more love you give, the more love you get,” and nothing is as strong as the heart of a volunteer. Call us at (208) 788-3468 to learn more about how you can get involved in all that we do at the Senior Connection. We’re hosting some activities this month you may be interested in. Read below or check out our activities calendar online. Go to seniorconnectionidaho.org to view our entire April Activity Calendar and join in on the fun! On Thursday, April 7, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Hospice & Palliative Care of the Wood River Valley is hosting a Caregivers Support Group at the Senior Connection. If you or anyone you know is seeking support as a caregiver, come join us as we offer support and resources as you navigate caring for someone. Please call us and let us know you’re coming! On Tuesday, April 12, and Tuesday, April 26, we’re hosting Bingo at 1 p.m. Join us for the chance to win great prizes and the opportunity to connect with others. Don’t miss out! Looking forward, the Senior Connection and Sawtooth Botanical Garden are gearing up for the inaugural Daffodil Festival that will be hosted at the Sawtooth Botanical Garden on Saturday, May 7. Last fall we planted 30,000 daffodil bulbs and are eagerly awaiting their bloom. Come and enjoy the garden in spring and view thousands of blooming daffodils. For more information on the programs and services the Senior Connection offers, give us a call at (208) 788-3468.

W O O D R I V E R W E E K LY

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APRIL 6 - 19, 2022

ADVERTORIALS

NUESTRA VOZ CUENTA

HERBERT ROMERO

APRIL 8TH, 2022

Check-in opens at 7:30 am . Event begins at 9:00 am

BCSD COMMUNITY CAMPUS 1050 Fox Acres Rd, Hailey, ID 83333

BUILDING BRIDGES, BREAKING BARRIERS Register today; space is limited! https://icha.idaho.gov/menus/summit_lawenforcement.asp

Registration Fee: $50

As the spring housing market kicks off, you likely want to know what you can expect this season when it comes to buying or selling a house. While there are multiple factors causing some uncertainty, including the conflict overseas, rising inflation, and the first rate increase from the Federal Reserve in over three years — the housing market seems to be relatively immune.

What You Can Expect from the Spring Housing Market

Here’s a look at what experts say you can expect this spring. 1. Mortgage Rates Will Climb Freddie Mac reports the 30-year fixed mortgage rate has increased by more than a full point in the past six months. And despite some mild fluctuation in recent weeks, experts believe rates will continue to edge up over the next 90 days. As Freddie Mac says: “The Federal Reserve raising short-term rates and signaling further increases means mortgage rates should continue to rise over the course of the year.” If you’re a first-time buyer or a seller thinking of moving to a home that better fits your needs, realize that waiting will likely mean you’ll pay a higher mortgage rate on your purchase. And that higher rate drives up your monthly payment and can really add up over the life of your loan.

level of appreciation will decelerate from the high double-digit levels we’ve seen over the last two years. That means prices will continue to climb, just at a more moderate pace. Most experts are predicting home prices will not depreciate. Won’t Increasing Mortgage Rates Cause Home Prices To Fall? While some people may believe a 1% increase in mortgage rates will impact demand so dramatically that home prices will have to fall, experts say otherwise. Doug Duncan, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist at Fannie Mae, says: “What I will caution against is making the inference that interest rates have a direct impact on house prices. That is not true.” Freddie Mac studied the impact that mortgage rates increasing by at least 1% has had on home prices in the past. Here are the results of that study:

(Scholarship available) Light breakfast refreshments and lunch will be served.

For more information, please contact the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs at 208-334-3776 or hola@icha.idaho.gov POST training hours TBD

BY HERBERT ROMERO

OUR VOICE COUNTS The third annual Idaho Statewide Law Enforcement Conference is coming this Friday, April 8, directed by the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs, with executive director Margie Gonzalez and team. We, the Hispanic LatinUS Leadership Taskforce, requested this important conference two years ago due to the importance of concerns we were listening to and exploring community solutions that make sense to the Hispanic families and community at large. I, Herbert Romero, participated in last year’s Idaho Falls conference to experience the impact and came out of the conference hopeful and encouraged to bring it to Blaine County. I asked Margie Gonzalez if she would consider us and she right away said yes and then spoke to Tammy Davis to partner up on this initiative, who was also on board. After Davis spoke with the Bellevue marshal, we are excited to present an upcoming conference that will be proactive in continuing to build strong and trustworthy relationships with law enforcement. I am thankful for their support and changes that they have committed to for families in the community. My son is a proud deputy of the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office and part of the Hispanic liaison team, so I am beyond happy that my invitation to the L.A Sheriff’s Department is coming to present on their Youth V.I.D.—a program and community outreach initiative. Lastly, Governor Brad Little will be closing the Law Enforcement Conference on April 8, 2022. This is a great opportunity to show Blaine County to our governor and highlight the Hispanic community. Please help us place your community on his radar.

2. Housing Inventory Will Increase There may be some relief coming for buyers searching for a home to purchase. Realtor.com recently reported that the number of newly listed homes has grown for each of the last two months. Also, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) just announced the months’ supply of inventory increased for the first time in eight months. The inventory of existing homes usually grows every spring, and it seems, based on recent activity, the next 90 days could bring more listings to the market. NUESTRA VOZ CUENTA If you’re a buyer who has been frustrated with the La 3ª Conferencia Anual Estatal de Aplicación de la Ley se limited supply of homes available for sale, it looks llevará a cabo este viernes 8 de abril, dirigida por la Comislike you could find some relief this spring. Howevión de Asuntos Hispanos de Idaho con la Directora Ejecutiva the chart shows, mortgage rates jumped by at least 1% six times in the last thirty years. In each er, be prepared to act quickly if you find the right As Asvalues the increased. chart shows, mortgage rates jumped by at Margie González y su equipo. Nosotros, the Hispanic LatinUS case, home least 1% six times in the last thirty years. In each Leadership Taskforce, solicitamos esta importante conferencia home. again, if you’re a first-time buyer or a repeat buyer, waiting to buy likely means you’ll pay more for case, home increased. If you’re a seller, listing now instead of waiting for So a home later in the year values (as compared to its current value). hace 2 años debido a la importancia de las preocupaciones que So again, if you’re a first-time buyer or a repeat estábamos escuchando y explorando soluciones comunitarias this additional competition to hit the market makes Bottom Line waiting to buy likely means you’ll pay more que tienen sentido para las familias hispanas y la comunidad sense. Your leverage in any negotiation during the Therebuyer, are three things that seem certain going into the spring housing market: sale will be impacted as additional homes come to for a home later in the year (as compared to its cur- en general. 1. Mortgage rates will continue to rise rent market. 2. value). The selection of homes available for sale will modestly improve Yo, Herbert Romero, participé en la conferencia de Idaho 3. Home prices will continue to appreciate, just at a slightly slower pace

If you’re thinking of buying, act now before mortgageLine rates and home prices increase further. If Bottom 3. Home Prices Will Rise you’re thinking of selling, your best bet may be to sell soon so you can beat the increase in There areto three things that seem certain going Prices are always determined by supply and de- competition that’s about come to market. mand. Though the number of homes entering the into the spring housing market: market is increasing, buyer demand remains very • Mortgage rates will continue to rise strong. As realtor.com explains in their most re• The selection of homes available for sale will cent Housing Report: modestly improve “During the final two weeks of the month, more • Home prices will continue to appreciate, just new sellers entered the market than during the same at a slightly slower pace time last year. . . . However, with 5.8 million new If you’re thinking of buying, act now before homes missing from the market and millions of mil- mortgage rates and home prices increase further. If lennials at first-time buying ages, housing supply you’re thinking of selling, your best bet may be to faces a long road to catching up with demand.” sell soon so you can beat the increase in competiWhat does that mean for you? With the demand tion that’s about to come to market. for housing still outpacing supply, home prices will continue to appreciate. Many experts believe the

Fall del año pasado para experimentar el impacto y salí de la conferencia esperanzado y alentado a llevarlo al condado de Blaine. Le pregunté a Margie González si nos consideraría y ella de inmediato dijo que sí y luego habló con Tammy Davis para asociarse en esta iniciativa, quien también estaba a bordo. Después de que Davis habló con el mariscal de Bellevue, estamos entusiasmados de presentar una próxima conferencia que será proactiva para continuar construyendo relaciones sólidas y confiables con las fuerzas del orden. Estoy agradecido por su apoyo y los cambios que han comprometido en tener para las familias en la comunidad. Mi hijo es un orgulloso ayudante del departamento del sheriff y parte del equipo de enlace hispano, así que estoy más que feliz de que mi invitación al Departamento del Sheriff de Los Ángeles venga a presentar en su V.I.D. Juvenil. Por último, el gobernador Brad Little cerrará la Conferencia de Aplicación de la Ley el 8 de abril de 2022. Esta es una gran oportunidad para mostrarle el Condado de Blaine a nuestro Gobernador y destacar a la comunidad hispana. Por favor, ayúdanos a poner a tu comunidad en su radar.

W O O D R I V E R W E E K L Y • A P R I L 6 - 1 9 , 2 0 2 2

CHAMBER CORNER

MIKE MCKENNA

Hard way Pipeline

Springing Back Into Community Events By Mike McKenna

s tulips and forsythia are beginning to welcome back another spring with their colorful blooms, community events are also returning after the COVID hiatus. Here’s a rundown of three events happening this spring.

Most of us take for granted the freedom of going wherever we need to go, unless that freedom is taken away. That’s one of the blessings that the inspiring team at Swiftsure Ranch Therapeutic Equestrian Center is able to share. The local nonprofit allows kids and adults with all types of physical, mental and emotional challenges the chance to enjoy the freedom of riding and connecting with horses. Unfortunately, not everyone can ride a horse and enjoy that empowering experience. That’s why Swiftsure is excited to announce they are adding a new horse-drawn carriage as an option for their clients. Thanks to the Spur Foundation, Swiftsure Ranch has purchased a wagon that can accommodate a wheelchair and up to four people. It will enable anyone to enjoy roaming around the 191-acre ranch just south of Bellevue. “This is an amazing opportunity,” Paul Bennett, Swiftsure Ranch executive director, said. “It opens up the ranch for those who cannot ride a horse. It provides them a chance for the freedom to go wherever they want to go. They’re not bound by their mobility challenges anymore.” The Chamber will be holding a ribbon-cutting for the new carriage on Friday, April 8 at 11 a.m. at Swiftsure Ranch at 114 Calypso Lane just south of Bellevue. Light refreshments will be served and the public is invited to join the celebration. For more information, contact Swiftsure Ranch at (208) 578-9111. April weather in the Northern Rockies can be very unpredictable, so outdoor events like Earth Day celebrations can be iffy. That’s why the Climate Action Coalition and The Chamber have teamed up to create a new Earth Day 5K. The fun run and walk will happen, rain or shine, the day after the 52nd anniversary of the national holiday

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.

and will culminate a week of local activities meant to honor and protect the Earth. The Earth Day 5K will take place on Saturday, April 23, at 10 a.m. at Hailey Town Square. The race course will follow the popular Turkey Trot route. To register or find out more, please go to ValleyChamber.org.

CLASSIC SUDOKU See answer on page 7

As the school year begins to wind down, The Chamber is teaming up with Blaine County School District to help students find jobs and ideas for career options as well as help our local employers find some much-needed staffers. This is a great opportunity for local, valley-wide students to find good jobs and to start to think about possible career fields. It will also help local businesses and nonprofits find employees now and perhaps even in the future,” Julie Carney, from Wood River Middle School, said. The Teen Job Fair and Business Expo will take place on Wednesday, May 4, from 5-7 p.m. at the Community Campus in Hailey. To get involved or for more information, please email Mike@ValleyChamber.org or call (208) 788-3484.

CROSSWORD SPONSORED BY

THETRADER TRADER THE THE TRADER 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 7

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

Sunny 1%

high 49º

low 28º WEDNESDAY

Mostly Sunny 1%

high 60 º low 36º THURSDAY

Partly Coudy 3%

high 69º low 39º FRIDAY

Mostly Sunny 2%

high 51º low 25º SATURDAY

Partly Coudy 20%

high 40º low 22º SUNDAY

Partly Coudy 24%

high 41º low 21º MONDAY

Mostly Coudy 24%

high 40º low 20º TUESDAY

SKI. BIKE. LIVE!

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