Magic Valley LIFE Magazine 2014

2014 Lifestyle Magazine & Local business directory

You Might As Well Jump—

Up Close and Personal with BASE Jumpers pg. 42

Harmony of the Family Bond—

The Hanchey family has a long legacy of love pg. 70

Account-ability—

Get to Know the City CFO pg. 38

Serving the Magic Valley Since 1917—

Learn more about what we can do for you on pg. 39 Member FDIC

Ta b l e o f

Contents BUSINESS PROFILES SECTION A 16 Heritage Woodstone Assisted Living Welcome Home 20 Avery Law - Benefits of Bankruptcy 24 Brian Tanner Law Office - Leveling the

Playing Field 26 Rockstahl Law Office - Tackling a Giant 34 Mueller Automotive - Joy Ride SECTION C 40 Sirucek Spine and Injury Center Adjusting Your View of Healthcare 46 Marky’s Super Tow - Need a Lift SECTION D 50 First Choice Dental - Smile Specialists 54 Mark W. Wright - The “Wright” Dentist for

the Magic Valley 56 Sawtooth Dental - Delicate Dentistry SECTION H 76 Steven S. Miller Construction - Committed

to Quality 90 Quality Truss & Lumber - Building

a Reputation

SECTION I 98 DIGIS Idaho - Wireless Out West SECTION O 106 Braces R Us Orthodontics- Creating Beautiful Smiles for All Ages SECTION P 108 Summer Brander Photography 112 Center for Physical Rehabilitation Experience Counts 118 Advanced Foot & Ankle - Stomping Out Foot Pain 122 Intermountain Spine & Orthopaedics Back in Action SECTION R 124 Brickhouse - Good Food, Good Music,

Good Times 125 Canyon Crest Dining & Event Center Viewing the Best 130 Summit Restoration - Damage Control SECTION S 134 The UPS Store - The UPSide of Local Printing

& Shipping

DEPARTMENTS 6 Editor’s Note

58 Downtown Guide

8 Calendar of Events

126 Restaurant Guide

10 Out & About

142 Business Listings

4 | Magic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

ta b l e o f

contents 12 78 84 92 100 114 136

FEATURES 12 28 42 63 70

Dairy, Dairy—Quite Contrary Getting Dirty in the Desert You Might As Well Jump Standing Out in a Crowd Harmony of the Family Bond

42

Constructing a Future A Whole Lotta Buildin’ Goin’ On Day Trippin Minidoka War Relocation Center Up and Running Trucker Talk: The Good, the Bad and the Hungry

92

Wallace Keck

CONTENTS

74 Bringing Care Home

18

Giving Meaning to Veteran’s Affairs

82

22

Pro Se at the Supreme Court

96 Are You Covered?

36

You’re Under Arrest!

105 Eyes of the Magic Valley

136

Details Make the Difference

38 Account-ability

110 Once Alone, Forever Home

48

Shh! The Library has a Secret to Share

120

Going the Extra Mile(s)

52

College Students that Care

132

What to Expect from a Home Inspection

68

Kids and Cash

140

Why I Love the Magic Valley

M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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e dit o r ’ s

note

Dear Readers,

W

elcome to the first edition of Magic Valley LIFE magazine! I’m so pleased to be bringing you some incredible stories about our community that I hope you’ll enjoy the entire year through.

The Magic Valley is such a wonderful part of Idaho, filled with generous citizens, a caring business community and a stunning environmental backdrop that humbles us every day. There are few other place like the Magic Valley left in the world, let alone the U.S.A. We should be proud and continue to hold firmly to the values that make us unique.

It was challenge to decide which stories to include in this inaugural issue—there are so many to share—but I hope we did a decent job representing the spirit and character of the Magic Valley. We are honored to share with you the history and love of the Hanchey family in the story Harmony of a Family Bond. Hop in the cab of an 18-wheeler and see what life is like when viewed through a windshield in the story Trucker Talk: The Good, the Bad and the Hungry. We know that the Magic Valley is a fun place to be, but it’s also located close to many of Idaho’s wonders check out the story Day Trippin’ and plan on getting out of town for a few hours.

As you peruse the pages of this publication you’ll notice that it is set up quite differently than any other on the market right now in this part of the state. We wanted to create a magazine that educates our readers about local businesses and gives our advertisers, regardless of their size, an opportunity to reach out to the citizens of the Magic Valley in a professional publication. Several stories are business profiles, designed to help you better connect with local businesses by learning something unexpected about them and giving you inside information about their services and their employees.

If you like what you read in the following pages, please consider supporting the companies and causes whose stories we’ve shared with you. If we all pitch in, the Magic Valley will continue to be the charming area of Southern Idaho we all know and love. We hope we’ve done our part connecting you to our community, one story at a time.

Happy Reading!

Karleigh Deeds Managing Editor

SHARE YOUR STORY: If you have a compelling story that you’d like to share, I’d love to hear it. Please send all of your questions, comments and suggestions for improvements to IdahoLifeEditor@gmail.com.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Putting together a magazine like this doesn’t just happen with a snap of the fingers. I want to thank everyone on my team who put in long hours to meet deadlines, drove all over the region to get just the right picture, and had the creativity to make all of the pages shine. Each and every person on staff—as well as my publishers and our advertisers—worked patiently with me when I lost my dad earlier this year. Thank you so much for your kindness and understanding—I sincerely apologize for any production delays it caused. That being said, I’d like to dedicate this magazine to the late, great Barton C. Douglass. I’ll forever miss you Dad.

6 | Magic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

Magic Valley Life 2014

Business Directory Meets Lifestyle Magazine

Idaho Life Publications Publisher Downtown District

Karleigh Deeds Managing Editor IdahoLifeEditor@gmail.com

alaDDiN’s floRal 504 broadway 208.523.6404 www.aladdinsfloral.com We are a full service florist serving the Idaho Falls area for over 40 years. Whatever the message, flowers from Aladdin’s Floral express it best. Our shop hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. Saturday, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. We are closed on Sundays.

lily’s seleCTeD CoNsiGNmeNT 369 shoup ave.

208.524.8014 Lily’s Selected Consignments is the number one destination for downtown shoppers. Two floors of top name, excellent conditions fashions, everything from the 1940’s to 2013. We have something for your every need.

Come in and meet the friendly and very knowledgeable Lily’s Girls and let us show your we have the best prices, the best selection and the best service in town.

Janie Williams Budell Creative Director IdahoLifeDesign@gmail.com

WRiGhT & WaymeNT 477 shoup ave.

208.523.4433 www.wrightlawidaho.com Wright & Wayment, PLLC can assist with the many and varied legal needs of clients. We are experienced attorneys with an emphasis on business formation, contracts, employment disputes, collections, business litigation, strategic planning, and divorce and adoption. .

iNGRam’s fiNe JeWelRy 361 a st.

208.522.0505 www.ingramsjewelers.com Ingram’s Fine Jewelers in Idaho Falls specializes in jewelry repair as well as selling diamonds and diamond jewelry. We believe that a diamond’s beauty, purity, and rarity make for the ultimate expression in celebrating

direct the joyMail—ortho of a relationship. Be it an engagement, anniverpaedics sary, or just because you care, you can perfectly say

Bu Sin eS S liS tin gS how precious your relationship is with diamonds.

68 | I DA h o FA L L S l i f e

Photographers Summer Brander, Summer Brander Photography summer@sbpphotos.com

DiReCt MAil united Mailing Direct 565 1st St. Idaho Falls, Id 208.529.0775 www.unitedmailingdirect.co

finAnCe teton financial 1970 E. 17th St., Ste. 102 Idaho Falls, Id 208.525.9200 www.tetonidahofalls.com Please see our ad on page 75 flORiStS Aladdin’s floral 504 Broadway Idaho Falls, Id 208.523.6404 www.aladdinsfloral.com Please see our ad on page 68

Contributing Writers Amber Daley Adrea Storey Chuck Malloy Joseph Talbot Lisa Jensen

gunS

Max’s gun Shop 257 a St. Idaho Falls, Id 208.524.4004 Please see our ad on page 71 HOMe HeAltH

Home Helpers & Direct link P.o. Box 84 Idaho Falls, Id 208.406.2380 www.pocatellohomecare.co m Learn more on page 80 HOSPitAl eastern idaho Regional Medical Center 3100 Channing Way Idaho Falls, Id 208.529.6111 www.eirmc.com Learn more on page 84

R

MuSeuMS Museum of idaho 200 N. Eastern ave.

Idaho Falls, Id 208.522.1400 www.museumofidaho.org Please see our ad on page 93

JAPAneSe CultuRe Japanese American Citizens league 1040 orlin dr.

Idaho Falls, Id 208.569.1891 www.jacl.org Please see our ad on page 89 JeWelRS ingram’s fine Jewelry 361 a St. Idaho Falls, Id 208.522.0505 www.ingramsjewelers.com Please see our ad on page 68

MuSiC

Chesbro Music Co. 327 W. Broadway Idaho Falls, Id 208.522.8691 www.chesbromusicretail.co m Please see our ad on page 71 idaho falls Symphony 450 a St. Idaho Falls, Id 208.529.1080

www.ifsymphony.org Please see our ad on page 93 ORtHODOntiStS

leymaster Jewelry 351 a St. Idaho Falls, Id 208.522.4423 Please see our ad on page 69

elison Orthodontics 3357 Merlin dr.

Idaho Falls, Id 208.522.9600 www.idahofallsorthodontics .com Please see our ad on page 97

lAnDSCAPing t & t lawn Services 2698 E. 14th N. ammon, Id 208.522.9887 www.tantlawns.com

ORtHOPAeDiCS Summit Orthopaedics 2321 Coronado St. Idaho Falls, Id 208.227.1100 www.summitortho.net Learn more on page 100

Restaurant Guide

A guide to some of the area’s best food.

W

hile Idaho Falls may not be on the culinary list of places to be, we do offer a wide variety of fantastic food without all the fluff. In our local establishments you can expect to have outstanding service in a friendly environment.

Lots of places know their regulars by name and how they take their coffee. You run into your neighbors and friends, and leave with a full belly, satisfied. Portions and prices are reasonable and the food tastes homemade in most places.

Our restaurateurs take pride in what they do and it shows on the plate. Most of our restaurants are locally owned and operated. But with the addition of some national chains in the past few years, the type of food offered has expanded as has the dining experience. So whether you’re in the mood for authentic Chinese food, seafood, or a good old steak, chances are you can find a quality experience right in town—served with a side of Idaho—just how we like it.

Cover photo courtesy of Summer Brander

A guide to some of Idaho

128 | I da h o Fa L L S l i f e

We welcome your story ideas! Please submit your ideas to idaholifeeditor@gmail.com

Idaho Life Publications, LLC 2014. This issue of Magic Valley Life is copyrighted under the laws of the United States of America. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission of the publisher is prohibited. For permission to use any portion of this publication email: smueller@idaholife.net. All editorial and photographic submissions are accepted explicitly without risk to the publisher for loss or damage. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy in the information provided. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, changes or omissions.

inteRnet SeRViCeS Speedconnect 1665 N. Woodruff ave.

Idaho Falls, Id 866.297.2900 www.speedconnect.com JAnitORiAl SeRViCeS AAA giles Cleaning 627 E. 1500 N. Shelley, Id 208.681.5595 www.gilescleaning.com Please see our ad on page 89

RESTaURaNT GUIdE

Tabatha Swenson tswenson@idaholife.net

Magic Valley LIFE is published annually by IDAHO LIFE PUBLICATIONS, LLC 3270 East 17th St., Suite 213 Idaho Falls, ID 83406 208.680.6713

lAWn CARe t & t lawn Services 2698 E. 14th N. ammon, Id 208.522.9887 www.tantlawns.com Learn more on page 90

lAWn eQuiPMent Pro Power equipment 555 S. Utah ave.

Idaho Falls, Id 208.542.6223 www.propowerofidahofalls.c om Please see our ad on page 70

160 | I da h o Fa L L S life

Sales Representatives Ken Thomas kthomas@idaholife.net

For advertising inquiries, please call 208.680.6713

inSuRAnCe

Alpine insurance 1095 9th St. Idaho Falls, Id 208.522.2253 alpineinsagency.com Please see our ad on page 87

m

eStAte SeRViCeS Safeguard estate Assistance 1486 Peach St. Blackfoot, Id 208.380.4523 Learn more on page 72

R

RESTaURaNT

Falls’ best places to eat.

Steak

Billman’s

Mexican cuiSine

Jaliscos Mexican Restaurant

2565 e. 17th St. idaho falls, iD 208.523.6700 www.idahofallssteakhouse .com

at Billman’s Steakhouse & Catering we provide menu to please any a fine steakhouse appetite. We also have weekly entertainment ranging from Thursday night karaoke, Friday music and dancing. night is country Saturday night live music. Whether people decide to go to the steakhouse to enjoy entertainment and food, or hire the restaurant good to cater their event, house & Catering Billman’s Steakserves the area with a menu that can satisfy your appetite.

Menu HigHligHtS : outlaw Burger, Steak & Country Fried Steak Shrimp, Rib Eye Steak,

Idaho Falls LIFE Pocatello LIFE Magic Valley LIFE

2107 e. 17th St. 325 River Pkwy 208.552.2021 208.612.0102 idaho falls, iD www.jaliscosmexicanresta urant.com

and Cantina

Mon. - Thur. 11 a.m. to 10 Fri. - Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. p.m.

Sun. 11 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Since 1997, Jalisco’s has been serving Idaho Falls the finest authentic Mexican in cuisine. The family owned business has voted Best Mexican been Restaurant in Idaho full bar and and extensive Falls 7 times! We offer a menu with such variety truly something for that there is everyone. our exceptional with us for many years, staff have been and their friendly make everyone feel faces and warm service like part of the Jalisco’s family.

Menu HigHligHtS: Pollo Monterey, and Molcajete Fundido, Carne asada, Camarones

BReakfaSt

Frontier Pie’s

6485 S. Overland Dr. idaho falls, iD 208.528.6300 www.frontierpies.com

Mon. - Sat. 5 a.m. to midnight Sun. 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

-breakfast

served all day

at Frontier Pies we take the simple things exceedingly well. and do them So if you’re in the mood for home cooked friendly service, we’re fare and want the fresh daily, our suppers place to be. our delicious pies are made and baked and salads are served you’ll always find with fresh baked cornbread, a smile and ask about our catering at our tables. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts! services too!

Menu HigHligHtS : denver omlette, San Francisco Club Sandwich, Rib Eye Fresh Baked Pies Steak, I da h o Fa L L S l i f e | 129

• Interesting stories about life in your community • Annual community calendar of event listings • Business Profiles • Business Directory set up alphabetically by business type • Published annually - delivered free of charge to businesses and area residences.

Idaho LIFE Publications 3270 East 17th Street, Ste. 213 Idaho Falls, ID

208-680-6713 M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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8 | Magic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

Photo by Summer Brander

2 0 1 4 c a l e nd a r o f

events

ONGOING EVENTS Woodriver Sustainability Center, Hailey, Wednesdays to Saturdays, year-round Live music at Canyon Crest Dining & Event Center, Fridays and Saturdays Saturday Shoppe, Hagerman, Saturdays, January to Christmas Gooding Historical Museum, Saturdays April 5 to October Laughing Daisy Neighborhood Market, Kimberly, Thursdays, May 3 to Oct 11 Filer Farmers Market, Fridays, May 4 to Oct. 26 Twin Falls Farmers Market, Saturdays, May 12 to Oct. 27 Gooding Farmers Market, Tuesdays, May 29 to mid-Sept.

City Market at Glenns Ferry, Saturdays Memorial Day to Labor Day Farmers Market at the Crossroads Point, Jerome, Saturdays, June 2 to Oct.13

11th Buhl Chamber of Commerce Annual Fundraising Golf Tournament 13th

Dancing Around the World, CSI

Gooding Relay for Life, Gooding Fairgrounds

14th Richland 59th Annual Outlaw Day

8th - 10th Sun Valley Arts & Crafts Festival 9th

20th - 22nd Twin Falls Airshow, Air Magic

Valley & Reeder Flying

28th - 30th Magic Valley Stampede

Idaho British Car Club Show, Hailey

23rd Music Fest!, CSI

Snake River Scramble at Blue Lakes Country Club,

Mr. Gas 25th BYU-Idaho Sacred Music

Concert, CSI 27th - 29th Kristmas in the Kountry

Craft Show

28th - 31st Twin Falls County Fair

9th Annual Perrine Bridge Festival 1st

Twin Falls County Fair (cont.)

Wagon Days, Hailey (cont.)

13th

Scramble for Books Golf Tournament, Twin Falls Golf Club Twin Falls Crop Hunger Walk

Hailey Farmers Market, Thursdays, June 14 to Oct. 11

3rd - 4th Buhl Sagebrush Days

4th of July Rodeo by Saw

tooth Rangers, Hailey

27th

Twin Falls Market on Main, Wednesdays, June 20 to Sept. 26 West End Senior Center Farmers Market, Buhl, Wednesdays, July 11 to Sept. 24

JUNE 2014

4th

4th of July Pancake Breakfast at the Grange, Hailey

Wagon Days, Hailey

SEPTEMBER 2014

JULY 2014

Twin Falls Tonight, Wednesdays, June 18 to Aug. 20

Cardboard Boat Regatta at Dierke’s Lake

23rd Hospice Visions 20th Annual Flo Slatter Memorial,

Clear Lake Country Club

Ketchum Farmers Market, Tuesdays, June 12 to Oct. 9

Crossroads Farmers Market, Shoshone, Saturdays, June 16 to mid-Oct.

2nd Annual Basque Heritage Day, Shoshone

18th - 21st Sun Valley Harvest Festival Run for the Wilderness

OCTOBER 2014

5th - 6th Hailey’s Main Street Antique Show

4th Bras Across the Canyon Fun Run

9th - 12th Trailing of the Sheep Festival,

Ketchum & Hailey

4th of July Antique Show in McKercher Park

11th - 13th Ketchum Arts Festival, Festival Meadows

10th - 11th Fall Home & Remodeling Expo, Radio Rondevoo

12th - 13th Shoshone Arts in the Park

15th - 19th Sun Valley Jazz Festival

15th

31st

Idaho International Music and Dance Festival, CSI

Trick or Treat on Bish’s street

6th

Nielson’s School of Dance Spectacular, CSI

Summerfest Kids Carnival, Nelson Field, Hailey

25th

7th

Gooding Relay for Life yard sale, Land Title

25th - 26th Nelson Baseball Tournament, Hailey

Jordan World Circus, Hailey Rodeo Grounds

26th Canyon Rim Color Dash 28th - 31st Sun Valley Symphony

DECEMBER 2014

AUGUST 2014

Buhl Night Light Parade

Camas Prairie Homecoming, Filer

Kids’ Fishing Derby at Kids Pond, Fairfield

7th - 8th Inflatables for the Kids at Fairfield City Park

18th - 19th Sun Valley Wine Auction

Dog Days of Summer, Wood River Valley Animal Shelter

Hot August Nights

1st - 2nd Northern Rockies Music Festival, Hailey

NOVEMBER 2014 Festival of Giving, Southern

Idaho Landscape Center

Festival of Lights Parade,

Twin Falls 5th - 7th Kristmas in the Kountry Craft

Show, Twin Falls County Fairgrounds

2nd 3rd Annual Blue Lakes Beer Fest, Twin Falls M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

| 9

& About Out

Enjoying outdoor life

Ledger Mueller golfing with Grandpa Dan

Kendall with Gold’s Gym

TE Make Sure to VO

Gary and Rachelle on a scenic ride

Art & Soul at Apricot Lane, Aspyn and Carly representing Summer Brander Photography I da h o Va FALL l l Se yl ilfief e 2014 10 | Magic

Rod with

Lexani Lim o

s

Avree and Meghan representing Summer Brander Photography

Art in the Magic Valley The annual Petersen Cook Ross Campout

What does the Fox Say?

Rachael Gerlach with Magic Valley School for the Performing Arts.

Angie Roach

Art Hoag with Art & Soul

We want your pictures! Send us your images of you and your friends attending events throughout Magic Valley. Submit an electronic version of your picture to idaholifeeditor@gmail.com by December 31, 2014.

I da h o FALL S l i f e | 11

Dairy, Dairy—

Quite Contrary

Two local family farms are proving that there’s more to the dairy industry than milk production.

F

or most school-age kids, ice cream is the quintessential summer treat. And warm weather is synonymous with the sound of the approaching ice cream truck. But while your children may recognize the driver dispensing these sweets, it’s highly unlikely that they know the name of the cow that supplied the milk used to make that ice cream.

One local dairy is changing all that.

Meet Bill Stoltzfus, lifelong dairyman, entrepreneur, and founder of Cloverleaf Creamery. Not only can he identify—by name—each and every one of his 90 cows, he demonstrates that milk production doesn’t have to be highly industrialized to turn a profit.

Upon purchasing the former Smith’s Dairy creamery, Stolzfus and his wife knew the timing was right for a familyrun operation. Though they had been presented with the opportunity to buy the facility five years earlier, they had declined due to a lack of knowledge and resources. But this time around, circumstances were a little different.

The Stolzfuses were already milking cows at their 200-acre farm just south of Buhl and the couple’s son-in-law expressed a desire to get more involved. Not to mention, the Idaho Department of Agriculture’s Idaho Preferred Program had been established and the local food movement was

12 | Magic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

By Amber Daley Photos by Summer Brander

gaining momentum. The Stolzfuses seized the opportunity, performed an extensive remodel of the facility, and in 2007, Cloverleaf Creamery was born.

In the years that followed, Cloverleaf has processed and marketed their own products, a line that has come to include non-homogenized whole milk, two percent and skim, half and half, cream, butter, whole milk yogurt, chocolate milk, and ice cream. At the Cloverleaf Creamery in Buhl, all these products are available for purchase, and the storefront features a 24-flavor ice cream dipping case.

The creamery, a mixed-retail space which also features local products such as Ballard Cheese, is what Stolzfus calls “an extension of the farm.” Cloverleaf’s milk truck also runs five days a week, delivering to stores, restaurants, and coffeehouses as far east as Pocatello, north to Sun Valley, and west to Boise, Nampa, and Caldwell.

From beginning to end, milk production to processing, the Cloverleaf team of 13 pretty much handles it all—they even raise their own forage and pasture the cows. “We certainly can increase

production on the farm end a bit, but actually we are quite content where we are,” Stolzfus says.

Much like Cloverleaf, Ballard Family Dairy and Cheese decided that for their farm, smaller was better.

They certainly started small, bottle feeding and raising just four one-day-old calves with the intent of becoming a milking operation. But after purchasing additional property and equipment and growing to over 160 head of cattle, owner Steve Ballard realized that additional expansion wasn’t necessarily the right fit. “We decided that if the family was going to be involved, we didn’t want to get too big,” says Ballard.

For the Ballards, downsizing meant rethinking their strategy. Fortunately, there’s more to the dairy industry than just milk, and they decided that a value-added model would be more appropriate for their dairy. After considering bottled milk, ice cream, and yogurt, they opted to build a hard cheese plant, an endeavor which took two years before they began making their first cheddar.

The Ballards knew that to better serve the Idaho market, they’d need to do more than produce just one

M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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“I’ve always been interested in the genetics of breeding registered cattle,” says Stolzfus. “It’s been about the love of the animal and the genetics. For those reasons, I never had any desire to have hundreds or thousands of cows or manage a lot of employees.”

Ballard agrees. “You wouldn’t do it if you didn’t care about the animals,” he says.

And care they do. type of cheese. But this time around, they were determined to grow smarter—diversifying their offerings rather than simply increasing production quantity.

Today, Ballard produces and distributes several varieties of hard style cheeses, which can be found at restaurants, grocery stores, and co-ops throughout Idaho and surrounding areas. Their cheese is so popular that they even ship it to customers in New York and to Seattle’s iconic Beecher’s Handmade Cheese (across from Pike Place Market). But the Ballards make sure to give credit where credit is due: to the Idaho cows that are their livelihood. “We identify our cheese with Idaho names; we want people to know that it’s made here—and it’s made by us.”

Ballard’s product offerings include its signature cheddars (“Idaho White Cheddar,” “Jersey Gem,” and “Vintage”), “Idaho Danish Pearl,” “Jersey Dream,” “Holy Cow,” and “Idaho Golden Greek,” a halloumistyle cheese that can be grilled and will not melt. If you’re lucky and happen to be in Boise during the first Saturday of the month, you might even get to taste one of Ballard’s limited batches of specialty cheddars, such as cracked peppercorn, or habanero pepper, or truffle cheddar.

While Ballard and Cloverleaf have unique, highquality products that delight customers all over Idaho, for these farmers, the appeal of the industry is more about the animals behind the scenes.

14 | Magic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

“Any nursing mother knows that what she eats affects the milk and affects the baby,” says Stolzfus.

“It’s the same thing with cows. What they eat affects the quality and the makeup of their milk. So we’re very particular about their diets, and we give them extra special care. We pride ourselves in that.”

Farmer Stolzfus believes that the happier the cow, the more delicious the milk. And he wouldn’t have it any other way. Members of Cloverleaf’s herd do indeed live long, happy, and productive lives. For instance, Dinah, at one of Farmer Stolzfus’s favorites, at 16 and a half years old, has produced roughly 300,000 pounds of milk in her lifetime. And according Stolzfus, many of the cows are “as tame as kittens,” their docile nature apparent to those taking tours of the farm and creamery.

For several years now, farming trends have again diverged from the norm—large-scale commercial enterprises—to smaller, family-run operations. “The creamery was a natural fit that has allowed us to survive milking 80 or 90 cows while creating our own local niche market,” Stolzfus says. “And that’s what it’s done—it’s made room in the business for my son and my son-in-law.”

But running a smaller farm is not without its challenges. “Early on, we were learning a lot because we weren’t as experienced in the processing end, so we struggled just to keep up,” says Stolzfus. “Labeling,

“You wouldn’t do it if you didn’t care about the animals,” — Steve Ballard, Ballard Family Dairy

keeping up with regulations, and managing inventory are always challenges, too. But there is a lot of good help out there, professionals whom you can ask questions.”

For smaller operations, while overseeing every aspect of the business can be an advantage, it also means more responsibility. For Cloverleaf, transporting their product efficiently meant hiring a dedicated truck driver—a driver who clocks about 5,000 miles in a single month, or an average of 100 miles every workday. And if the driver is unable to work, this responsibility falls upon another farm worker, usually Stolzfus.

In addition to the challenges unique to smaller operations, Ballard insists that their farm is vulnerable to the same economic struggles of dairy farmers industry-wide: in particular, producing milk at a reasonable rate that allows for profitability. “Over the last few years—with corn and protein prices raising, feed costs skyrocketing, and milk prices dropping—it’s been a tight margin, and it doesn’t seem to matter what size you are,” he says. “Food is just not cheap to produce anymore.”

The family farm model may not necessarily be easy—or highly profitable—but running a smaller operation often simplifies farm management for such farmers as Stolzfus and Ballard, and makes it easier to monitor every aspect of business operations. Not to mention, they find it highly rewarding.

“Working for yourself, working with the land, and working with animals—it’s a lifestyle. But it’s the lifestyle that keeps you doing it,” says Ballard. “There have been a few headaches along the way,” Stolzfus admits. “But it’s been a lot of fun. I think it’s a very sustainable setup and I would love to see the family continue it on for a long time.”

Where to Find It

Cloverleaf Creamery is located at 205 Broadway Avenue South in Buhl. For tours or additional information, they can be reached at 208-543-4272. The creamery is open seven days a week, call for updated hours. Their products can be found at Swensen’s Markets in Twin Falls, at Nel’s Bi-Lo Market and the Co-op in Pocatello, and at Atkinsons’ Market in Ketchum.

Ballard Family Dairy and Cheese creates their award winning cheese in Gooding, Idaho. Their products can be found at Winco in Twin Falls, Cloverleaf Creamery in Buhl, and Cooks Food Town in Gooding.

For additional retailer information, visit them on the web at www.ballardcheese.com or call 208-934-4972.

M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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Welcome Home

Heritage Woodstone Assisted Living continues to provide a comfortable, safe place for Magic Valley’s seniors.

By Joseph Talbot Photos by Summer Brander

S

ome know it as Heritage, others call it Woodstone, but to the dozens of seniors who reside at the intersection of Filer and Martin streets in Twin Falls it’s known as home. In the 1960s Dr. Harold Drake and his wife Nelma realized that nursing homes were not the ideal location for seniors needing just a little bit of help. In the coming years they built a retirement home in Twin Falls, later building Heritage Assisted Living & Memory Care, the first such facility in Idaho. The building is separated from the road by an ample lawn and mature pine trees that provide a serene and quiet location away from the hustle and bustle of the street. Heritage Woodstone has a combination of Old World charm and modern conveniences that make it an ideal home for anyone in need of assistance with daily activities.

At Heritage residents enjoy a great deal of freedom thanks to the private and comfortable rooms. Residents are encouraged to participate in activities with their peers and are free to come and go. Even residents with mobility issues have the opportunity for regular outings, if they so desire. The comprehensive wellness program at Heritage further promotes independence and mobility by collaborating with an in-house therapist as well as support staff to provide an optimal level of function for each resident.

Medication assistance, 24/7 monitoring by nursing staff, excellent meals, and the wellness program are just a few of the advantages of Heritage Woodstone. They also provide care specifically tailored to those seniors suffering from any form of dementia or memory disorder. Their memory care program offers a homelike environment designed to provide a high quality of life for the residents. This emphasis helps those seniors who may be medically stable but whose memory issues create the potential for self-care deficits at home.

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A

Assisted Living

While Heritage has been in the Magic Valley longer than any other assisted living center, the owners have not allowed the building to stagnate or succumb to its age. The common room is richly furnished with leather sofas, beautiful paintings and photos that tell the building’s story. There are frequent activities held throughout the facility that the residents can participate in and a long list of amenities of which they can take advantage, allowing for plenty of opportunities for socialization.

Perhaps one of the most exciting developments at the facility is the addition of a comprehensive nurse alarm system that adds a layer of protection from falls and lost call buttons previously unseen at most facilities in the area. Residents will have the ability to call staff to their position from anywhere in the facility at the touch of a button, thanks to the GPS enabled bracelets that are centrifugal force sensitive. This means that if a resident falls, regardless of whether or not they can reach the call button staff will be immediately notified and dispatched to the area. The danger of residents falling and being left unattended for any amount of time is virtually eliminated, which is a level of safety unmatched by any other local facility.

Heritage strives to be the best assisted living facility in the state. They are not only a leader in their field, but serve as a standard to be followed by other large corporations. While high tech solutions like their GPS enabled fall bracelets keep them on the cutting edge of medical innovations, they’re still family owned and operated. Harold and Nelma’s son, Richard and his wife, Melody oversee the three facilities, while Richard’s children, Jen and Reginald, hold leadership positions of their own.

The Drake family is committed to having their residents feel safe and at home. Afterall Harold and Nelma are residents here, too.

208-733-9064 & 208-734-6062 622 Filer Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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Giving Meaning to Veteran’s Affairs

Idaho’s congressional delegation is here to help veterans get the benefits they deserve.

T

he government bureaucracy often does cruel things to the military men and women who put their lives on the line for their country.

Lindsay Nothern, communications director for Sen. Mike Crapo, tells a story about an Army soldier from Southern Idaho who was denied his temporary medical pay because of confusion over the processing of his Medical Board proceedings.

The military forced the soldier and his wife and family to travel to Seattle for medical testing. This required his wife to take time off from work and pull their children out of school for the trips. Because the soldier was not receiving his temporary pay, his wife at one point ended up walking to work five miles a day because the family did not have the money for gasoline in their car.

This story has a happy ending, though.

“Our office eventually got the required medical examinations moved to the Boise Veterans Administration and we eventually resolved the pay issues as well,” Nothern says. “The soldier recovered thousands of dollars in back wages.”

This is just one example of the military-service issues that Crapo’s office and others in the Idaho delegation take on. Caseworkers are heavily involved with active or retired military, dealing directly with the military branches of the Veterans Administration.

You may not realize it, but your congressman can help “when problems arise with monetary benefits available to veterans such as service connected

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By Chuck Malloy

compensation, pensions, education and training programs, life insurance, death and widow’s benefits and home loan guarantees,” explains Nikki Watts, communications director with Rep. Mike Simpson. “We not only help with problems, sometimes it’s just helping the veterans and their families understand the complex and confusing rules and regulations for VA programs.”

“Our veterans deserve our most sincere gratitude and respect for their service to our nation,” Simpson says. “I recognize the sacrifices that service members and their families make to protect our freedoms and consider it an honor to work on their behalf. With the many challenges facing our nation, it is vital that we keep our commitment to our veterans.”

Nothern and Suzanne Wrasse, communications director for Sen. Jim Risch, say the senators also help many veterans receive medals of honor in recognition of their service.

The caseworkers earn their money, because of the complexity of issues related to the military and veterans. But all three members of Idaho’s delegation, who have offices in the Magic Valley area, are committed to help those who serve and who have served.

“It is an honor for me to work on behalf of veterans who have sacrificed so much for the freedoms we enjoy in this country,” Risch says. “My staff and I are always available to do whatever we can to help, whether by helping navigate the GI Bill, assistance with VA health benefits, requesting records, or any other service. We make every effort to give assistance to our veterans.”

Sifting through the government maze is part of the routine in Crapo’s office. In the past year, the office opened 299 military related cases—17 VA and 123 active military. That amounts to an average of 25 new cases a month and six new cases per week.

“Our nation is indebted to those individuals who have served in the Armed Services and we must keep our commitment to those brave men and women,” Crapo says. “I recognize the importance of ensuring the federal government takes the necessary steps to address the needs of veterans and to acknowledge the sacrifices they have made for the very freedom we hold dear.”

Your Idaho Delegation Hard At Work In Washington Simpson, a former chairman of the House Veterans Benefits Subcommittee, has a long list of bills he has authored or co-sponsored.

The list includes:

Authored the Hire Veterans Act Authored the Veterans Education Affordability Act Authored the Department of Veterans Affairs Work-Study Act Authored the former Prisoners of War Special Compensation Act Authored the Service members Overseas Outreach Act Authored the Jobs for Veterans Act Co-sponsored the Retired Pay Restoration Act Co-sponsored the Disabled Veterans Tax Termination Act Co-sponsored the Veterans Heritage Firearms Act Co-sponsored the Veterans Training Act Co-sponsored the Children of Fallen Warriors AMT Relief Act Co-sponsored a resolution establishing a Select Committee on POW and MIA Affairs Co-sponsored the Respect for America’s Fallen Heroes Act Co-sponsored the Soldiers Targeted by Offensive Profiteering Act Co-sponsored Rep. Ron Paul’s American Service member and Citizen Protection Act Co-sponsored the Stolen Valor Act

Twin Falls County Veterans Officer is here to help, too:

260 4th Avenue North Twin Falls, ID 208-733-7610 EXT. 21 The Twin Falls County Veterans Officer helps Twin Falls County veterans receive the benefits they are entitled to. They also help obtain medals from the military to which a veteran is entitled and may not have gotten.

Services provided include: Help fill out forms for service connect and pension benefits Help with VA insurance, vocation training and rehabilitation, burial benefits and hospitalization Help obtain DD 214’s and other supporting documents for claims Schedule rides on the DAV van to Boise VAMC everyday Monthly outreach conducted with Walt Jackson of IDVS M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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Benefits of Bankruptcy Avery Law is helping others with a fresh start.

By Alisa Clickenger Photos by Summer Brander

T

he American Dream. Most Americans grow up believing in working hard to be prosperous and achieve success in life. This idea is such a part of our culture that very often we take it for granted; then we find ourselves completely surprised when life takes an unexpected turn. Sometimes life’s twists catch us in a stressful financial situation with immense pressure from creditors and seemingly nowhere to turn.

Yet there is a pressure release valve and it’s called bankruptcy.

Our forefathers had the good sense to know that occasionally any American might need a fresh start, and that’s what declaring bankruptcy is all about. “Most people are good, hard-working Americans that need a second chance. And that’s what bankruptcy does for them,” says Bankruptcy Attorney John Avery. “That’s why it’s written into the Constitution.”

“We are fallible people and things happen to us. We get sick, we have relationship problems, someone who is supporting us dies, or technology changes. There are all sorts of reasons why people may owe money that they can’t pay back. It’s usually that the world went a different direction than we expected,” Avery says.

Bankruptcy clears your debts, stops the creditors from calling, and helps save your home.

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A

Avery Law helps people get a fresh start. Avery is a bankruptcy specialist, and an expert at giving people a new beginning. He has been practicing law for 27 years, and has been specializing in bankruptcy for the last several years. And just like a surgeon that takes one skill and hones it to perfection, John Avery has done just that with bankruptcy law. After meeting rigorous, objective standards set by the American Board of Certification, Avery is now recognized as the only Board Certified Bankruptcy Attorney in Southern Idaho.

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Even with the distinction of a busy and successful practice, Avery still manages to keep the firm’s smalltown-community feeling. “People think of us on a first-name basis. We hire staff who are interested in others, and we train them well so that they are very professional in what they do,” says Avery. “We are community-minded, yet we are very high-tech. We have a central computer system that we can access from anywhere.”

The community feeling is quite natural for Avery. He was raised on a country farm in Idaho Falls, graduated from Bonneville High School and attended Brigham Young University, first studying business, and then law. He’s been very active in his church, and has been a Boy Scout and an Explorer Scout Leader. Avery also served on the District 93 School Board for six years, and then another three years as Chairman of the same school board.

Avery Law has offices in Twin Falls, Boise, Pocatello and Idaho Falls. “We like to help people,” says Avery.

And it’s obvious that they indeed do. In 2011, Avery received a humbling Christmas card from a client that read, “We’re so grateful for the change you’ve made in our family’s life and the opportunities you’ve brought about.” That is just the reason Avery went into practice.

So if life hands you an unexpected twist and you find yourself in need of a safety net, call on Avery Law, they are there to help you out.

averybankruptcylaw.com M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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The Many Hats of

Kristina Glascock

The Twin Falls County Clerk has plenty of responsibilities.

By Lisa Jensen Photo by Jay Fort Background photo by Summer Brander

I

Photo by Jay Fort

f you’re expecting a politician from central casting when you meet the Twin Falls County Clerk, you’re in for a surprise. Kristina Glascock is easy to talk to, friendly and warm. Her bright personality naturally puts you at ease, but the most impressive thing about Kristina is the number of accomplishments she’s been able to achieve since being appointed Twin Falls County Clerk in 2003 by the Twin Falls Republican Central Committee and the Twin Falls County Commissioners.

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• Ex officio Auditor—in charge of payroll and benefits

for over 400 county employees. Also works with the County Commissioners to prepare the annual budget and compile budget requests.

• County Recorder—supervises the recording of over 26,000 licenses and other documents annually.

• Chief Elections Officer—responsible for managing all

federal, state and county elections, including those in the 39 taxing districts in the county.

Additionally, Kristina is the Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners. That’s quite a plateful for any one person, but it’s the diversity of the job that Kristina enjoys most.

With so many critical issues to oversee, Kristina is generous in giving credit where it is due. “I work with a wonderful staff,” she confides. “There are 40 people directly under me who make it possible for me to do my job.”

Having a constantly full work schedule leaves little free time, but Kristina puts her family at the top of her priority list.

She has two daughters, one attending Boise State University and the other a freshman headed to high school in the fall.

“My daughters are both soccer players, so between school and Twin Falls Rapids Soccer Club soccer games my schedule has always been full,” explains Kristina. But that’s not all that takes up her time. “I’m a member of Republican Women and am active with my church, too, so I stay pretty busy outside of work.”

Kristina’s current schedule is considerably different from the slower pace she knew growing up on a farm at a ranch south of Rockland, Idaho. She enjoyed life on the ranch but, after high school, felt the pull of college life at Idaho State University where she graduated from the Legal Secretary program as well as with a bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Training and Development. Along with an education, she acquired a fiancée who, coincidentally, was also from Rockland.

Although Kristina was initially appointed to the position when her predecessor resigned, the station is an elected one.

She was required to run for office in 2004, 2006 and again in 2010. With each re-election came confirmation that she was doing the job right. Magic Valley voters can see that Kristina is a County Clerk who gets things done such as restructuring the Court Services office, putting controls into place to prevent fraud, working with other elected officials to increase employee wages and increasing efficiency in the Clerk’s Office by implementing various software programs— just a handful of the many issues Kristina has tackled.

The Twin Falls County Clerk actually wears a number of hats:

• Clerk—oversees the daily operations of the courts and the cases they see.

“It’s funny because I didn’t know Drew growing up,” Kristina explains. “He’s a little older than I am, so we didn’t have the opportunity to meet before we were in college.”

The couple married after graduation and moved to Twin Falls in 1992, where Drew already had a job. Kristina soon began working at Twin Falls County and started on her path to the Clerk’s Office. “I loved growing up in Rockland,” she says, “but I love everything about the Magic Valley. The agriculture, the business community, CSI, the school system, the stores. We have all this, but we don’t have to deal with long commutes. It’s all what makes Twin Falls an attractive community to move or retire to.”

There’s a great deal of hard work and responsibility that goes along with the job of being Twin Falls County Clerk. Working with high-caliber people in a terrific city, one that successfully balances big city conveniences with a small city atmosphere, are the rewards that make it all worthwhile.

M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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Leveling the Playing Field With legal representation from Brian Tanner, clients can feel good about their case.

W

By Lisa Jensen Photos by Summer Brander

hen your father is an attorney and you spend a good deal of your youth traveling the state with him helping farmers in bankruptcy, the experience could give you a taste for the law and facilitating legal aid for those in need. That’s exactly how Brian Tanner found his calling. Seeing how farmers and their families relied on his dad, and how he was able to provide real relief for their real issues, made a lasting impact on Brian. He also realized the importance and effectiveness of one-on-one contact and personal attention.

“That’s what I enjoy about operating my own practice,” Tanner says. “I enjoy being able to talk to people face to face every day in my office. I especially enjoy working with people that I feel really need the help.”

Tanner began acquiring his own legal experience while clerking for a district court judge in Provo, Utah, counting it as part of his legal education. Because the judge only handled criminal cases, the job provided an excellent background for Tanner’s criminal law practice today.

With a degree in Public Policy from Brigham Young University and a juris doctorate from the University of Idaho, Tanner is well equipped to handle a variety of cases. He has experienced personal injury law from both sides, having worked for a personal injury law firm in Las Vegas, as well as an insurance defense firm in Twin Falls. He also served in the Twin Falls public defender’s office for two years before opening his own practice in 2009. Each position presented Tanner with the unique, valuable experience he brings to the personal injury, civil litigation and immigration clients he serves, as other specialties of his practice.

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A Notable licenses in all courts in the state of Idaho plus federal court, and every immigration court in the nation add to Tanner’s impressive skill and education to make him an effective attorney. Top it all off with degrees in economics and Spanish (Tanner’s entire staff is fluent in Spanish) and his dedication to giving clients the personalized attention he learned from his father, and you see that Tanner brings an unexpected complete package to Magic Valley citizens.

Although schooling and work took Tanner far from his Boise roots, the Tanner family was drawn back to the Gem State as much for the great Idaho outdoors as for the opportunity to provide legal assistance to those in need. When not representing clients in federal court or magistrate and district courts, Tanner and his wife enjoy the outdoor activities the Magic Valley offers.

“We love to go on hikes in the Box Elder and Snake River canyons, and in the South Hills, too,” Tanner relates.

Avid bike riders, the Tanners like the fact that they can hit the road from home and be in the country in about five minutes. Additionally, they’ve

Attorneys

made it a tradition to participate in the Spudman Triathlon in Burley every year.

The Tanners also enjoy getting involved in the local community. Brian Tanner served as scout master for a local Boy Scouts troop and likes being active in his church. The whole family (which includes a son, 2, a daughter, 4, and one on the way) appreciates the activities at the College of Southern Idaho, especially the music festivals.

“We love music. My wife plays the piano and violin,” Tanner says, who is a concert pianist himself.

It’s an ideal match between an attorney with so much to offer and the southern Idaho valley that reciprocates with a great lifestyle and community close to Brian Tanner’s heart.

“That’s why I love doing what I do,” Tanner says. “I represent those who are disadvantaged or who are taking on organizations with much more funding.

I work in areas that are sometimes unpopular: immigration, criminal law, civil litigation, personal injury.

But I believe in what I do and, to me, that’s much more personally satisfying.”

Brian Tanner Law Office 401 Gooding St. N. #107 Twin Falls, ID

208.735.5158 M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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tackling a giant S When it comes to personal injury cases, clients can trust Rockstahl Law Office to do the hard work.

By Lisa Jensen Photos by Summer Brander

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itting down with Joe Rockstahl, a 6’2” former special ops veteran and attorney, was a little intimidating until he cracked the biggest smile and shook my hand.

Warm and friendly, Rockstahl is open and easy to talk to, vital qualities for putting clients at ease. Rockstahl explained that commitment and a positive demeanor do far more for expressing a client’s position in a case than courtroom theatrics. Rockstahl has a tenacity and sense of commitment to the people he represents that drive him to provide the best possible legal representation.

“I know what clients go through,” Rockstahl says. “No one should have to deal with a legal battle alone or unprepared.”

Rockstahl has been practicing law for 20 years, but it’s his genuine understanding of what his clients experience that make him an effective attorney. As he tells it: “I was in a bad automobile accident myself in 2005. I’ve gone up against an insurance company personally. I know how hard and discouraging it can be. I’ll sit down with the client and talk over the possibilities. We have to consider the expenses and how much of a larger award they may actually end up with. I lay it all out, but the decision is ultimately up to (the client).”

A Rockstahl is trying to show that not all law firms are “settlement mills” and is proud of being one of the few personal injury lawyers who won’t simply take an insurance company’s first offer. “I’m not afraid to take those cases to juries,” Rockstahl declares. “Many times it results in substantially higher settlements for the client.”

at the University of Idaho in 1990, he trained for 18 months in the army to be a Green Beret sergeant.

While completing his training, Rockstahl also studied for and passed the California bar exam and went on to get his master’s degree in tax law. Originally from Kooskia, Rockstahl practiced tax and criminal law in California, before returning to Idaho.

Rockstahl Law Office mostly handles accident injury and criminal defense, but the cases Rockstahl truly relishes are the pro bono work he does for veterans. “They do so much for the country and go through some tough situations so, of course, some of them have a hard time adjusting once they’re back home,” Rockstahl relates.

Rockstahl considers his greatest assets to be his wife Patty, who is also his paralegal. “She has a competitive streak,” Rockstahl chuckles with pride. “She has to win, and that’s good for the clients. She’s also very useful in screening clients and doing research for cases.”

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It’s Patty who spends time on the phone with insurance adjusters, much to their chagrin but to the benefit of the clients. “Patty really knows a lot, and she’s gotten a reputation for it among the insurance companies and the other lawyers in town, too,” Rockstahl says.

Passionate as well as compassionate, it’s the reputation of both Rockstahls and the care and understanding they provide that serve their clients well.

“We’re a lot like doctors. The clients put their lives in our hands. They trust us with cases that might not seem very big to someone else but, to these people, it’s their entire lives.”

Rockstahl recalled his schoolmates’ older brothers returning from Viet Nam and there was no one there to help them. The first veteran Rockstahl took on was John Larsen, who had been arrested for a hate crime when he got in an argument at Wal-Mart with a lady wearing a burka. It was Larsen’s case which lead to Twin Falls creating the Veteran’s Court.

Rockstahl has a good working relation with the Veteran’s Affairs officer in Jerome, who has been instrumental in getting veterans the help they need.

Rockstahl’s empathy for vets may come from his own military experience. After graduating law school

Big case or small, when it’s your entire life on the line, you want a lawyer who understands, a lawyer like Joe Rockstahl.

Need Legal Advice?

Contact us and together we’ll tackle the giants 440 Fairfield Street N. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.8810 Fax : 208-734-8820 www.joerockstahl.com

Rockstahl Law Office Chtd.

Attorney and Counselor at Law www.joerockstahl.com M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

| 27

y t r i D g n i Gett t r e s e D e th n i

Four wheeling in the Magic Valley is a great

way to get out and see Idaho.

By Chuck Malloy

I

f Newt Gingrich were to become president and move forward with his dream to build an American colony on the moon, Jeff Trammel of Twin Falls could be among the first to volunteer.

That assumes, of course, that he could bring his four-wheeler to scale the roughest terrain imaginable.

It would also help if he could open a branch of his Advanced Suspension Design business to better prepare his vehicle—and others that might land on the moon—to navigate the new territory.

“That would be a blast,” Trammel says laughing.

Trammel wouldn’t be the only one with an interest of living on the moon. A few of his fellow members of the Southern Idaho Off-Road Association also might have an interest—again, if they can bring their fourwheelers. Maybe the Snake River Canyon Krawlers, who pride themselves on being the more extreme navigators, could open a club chapter on the moon— where only a few have gone before.

The moon, of course, wouldn’t be for everybody.

For instance, Astronaut Alan Shepard showed 43 years ago showed that you could hit some pretty nice golf drives in outer space, but the putting greens were in horrible shape. So, don’t bother attracting golfers there. But to the four-wheel enthusiasts, whose idea of weekend fun is to scale the roughest parts of the Snake River Canyon and push themselves and their vehicles to the limits, the moon would be a fitting place.

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Caitlyn Trammel has been rock crawling with her dad since she was 6.

The odds of a moon colony are only slightly better than Gingrich’s chance of becoming president of the United States. So the four-wheel crowd in the Magic Valley will have to settle for big rocks and challenging backcountry trails in Idaho—which is rewarding enough.

Four-wheeling is a popular sport in the Magic Valley and Idaho, which is as famous for Photo by Summer Brander its multitude of outdoor activities as potatoes.

The 45-year-old Trammel has been involved in the sport for about 25 years and has turned it into a family affair. His 15-year-old daughter, Caitlyn, has been riding along with her dad for most of her life.

“She has been in the driver’s seat since she was 6 or 7—in areas where she couldn’t hurt herself or anyone else— and she was about 9 years old when she first drove solo,” Trammel explains.

In Trammel’s eyes, the profile of four-wheeling is not a group of tough-looking beer-drinking guys crawling over rocks with their monster trucks. Yes, there are some guys who do that. But Trammel is more attracted to the family aspect of the sport, which is emphasized by the Southern Idaho Off-Road Association. “That’s what I like—the tightness with families,” he says. “You feel a sense of responsibility for other kids and pride over their accomplishments.”

Youngsters quickly discover there is more to life than cell phones, texting with their friends and video games.

Trammel, who helped organize the Twin Falls club, saw a surge of interest when it was started in 1997. “There were probably 30 to 40 members then. It dropped off quite a bit, but it seems to be coming back now. We have about 20 or 25 members.” The excitement and challenge of rock crawling is intriguing to anyone who experiences it firsthand.

Trammel attributes the decline to economic slowdown over the past few years, when people were having trouble holding onto their jobs and homes. Four-wheelers became a luxury, rather than a necessity. Kameron Hardcastle, president of the Snake River Canyon Krawlers, noticed a similar decline in his club.

“We have six members, which is down from about 20 when we first started in 2010,” Hardcastle says. “For a lot of people, the economy hit hard and people had to get rid of their toys. But some people stuck in, and now we’re seeing people come back to the sport.”

As a club, the Krawlers do what they can to make all comers welcome. Two rules are that no one is left behind and people don’t have to do “all the goo” to prepare vehicles for the rough rides. Somebody with a cheap, beat-up four-wheeler can have fun.

“Anybody can come with us,” Hardcastle says. “Not every vehicle can do everything we can do, but I guarantee I will be out there helping anyone who comes along.”

Perhaps the most important rule for the Krawlers is, “Everyone will have a good time. If you want to be upset and grumpy, this off-road club is not for you.”

Everybody can have a bad day, and Hardcastle says he has had plenty of those over the years in the four-wheeling world. Equipment can break down and vehicles sometimes can tip over by

Photo by Jeff Trammel M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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“It’s quite an adrenaline rush vehicle on an angle. Your hands start to sweat a little your fear is relieved and you

Photo by Jeff Trammel

eight hours for relaxation and total enjoyment,” he says. “Within our club, there’s a small core of people who like to find bigger and harder rocks to play upon. We also have individuals who like to be exploring. They are out there to ride in the backcountry to see the wildlife and the scenery, which is incredible.”

Jeff Trammel enjoys getting out in nature and testing what his Jeep can do. scaling some of the big rocks.

“There are times that people can get mad at their trucks, but we don’t enjoy that,” says the 28-year-old Hardcastle. “We’re high spirited people who are out to have a good time and like to get home safely.

Trucks breaking down are part of the sport. It’s like golf. Some days are good and some days you ask why you ever came out.”

Club members have opportunities to participate in various levels of competitions locally, statewide and regionally. But Trammel says his interest in the sport goes beyond competitions. Four-wheeling is just one more outdoor activity that Idahoans can enjoy.

“Like any other businessman, I go through a lot of stress and I welcome the chance to take six to 30 | Magic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

Rock crawling isn’t the greatest spectator sport; in fact, it might be one of the worst. Going online, one can see trucks going very slowly— back and forth repeatedly—in an effort to climb over a big rock. But for the participant, it’s a different story.

“You almost have to experience it,” Hardcastle says. “It’s quite an adrenaline rush when you start putting your vehicle on an angle. Your heart starts to race and your hands start to sweat a little bit. When you get over it, all your fear is relieved and you feel really good.

“It can be dangerous,” he adds. “I don’t know many people who have gotten hurt. Most injuries occur when people stick their hands out of the vehicles.

That’s not a good thing to do. If it’s going to roll over, your hands aren’t going to stop it. When driving, you’ve got to know when to go for it and when to back off. If you can’t do something one day, then try again on another day.”

Hardcastle enjoys other outdoor activities, such as hunting and fishing. The ability to do four wheeling makes Idaho heaven on earth in his view.

“I moved here from Salt Lake City and just fell in love with this,” he says. “There are some wonderful places in the Canyon rim that you can’t get to unless you have a four-wheel drive. And it’s something

A

Automotive

when you start putting your heart starts to race and your bit. When you get over it, all feel really good.”

—Kameron Hardcastle

Get Your Ride Back on the Road you can’t see unless you have a vehicle capable of getting there.”

Both clubs in the Magic Valley are part of the Idaho 4x4 Association, which provides guidance for the clubs and advocates for the interests of the sport. The state association encourages participants to “tread lightly,”—in other words, respect the land, staying on designated trails and cleaning up after themselves—and generally discourages efforts to create more wilderness areas and shut off lands for public use.

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“I can understand why people want to preserve our lands for future generations. I want to preserve our lands, too. I’ve seen some gorgeous places that I want to see preserved for generations to come,” Trammel explains. “But if some people had their way, we’d go back to the horseand-buggy era. As it stands, we have hundreds of square miles of land that is inaccessible, so why shut off the small parts that are accessible?”

Trammel and his club members don’t just clean after themselves. For the last dozen years or so, they have been conducting annual cleanups of popular Bureau of Land Management land, hauling away hundreds of pounds of trash in the process.

rep•u•ta•tion

noun

a place in public esteem or regard: good name Merriam-Webster

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WE WANT YOUR JUNK BATTERIES!

We are paying top dollar for all lead acid batteries: Auto, Commercial, Deep-Cycle, Utility and Power sports.

Photo by Jeff Trammel

“That speaks volumes for how much we respect and care for the land,” Trammel says. “We want to maintain that pristine look. We don’t want to see trash and we don’t want to create unwanted trails.

“Tread lightly means respect for the land. If we see garbage, we pick it up and pack it out,” he adds. “If we don’t, that gives fuel for the government to shut things down and take control from us, and that’s the one thing we don’t want.”

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100% Coverage by strictly using North American Smelters 412 Eastland Dr S Twin Falls ID 83301 Phone - 208-733-0896 Fax - 208-734-3779 www.interstatebatteries.com 32 | Magic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

Hardcastle has similar views.

“It works against us if we don’t respect the land,” says Hardcastle. “But we choose to do it because we use those areas so much. We don’t wait for annual cleanups. If we’re out there and see a pile of trash, we’ll pick it up. We want to keep those areas cleaned up so we can enjoy it.

We also don’t want to ruin it for anybody else, or the wildlife.

“If I saw somebody dumping a pile of trash on the land, I don’t know what I’d do. I’d probably call the police,” he says. “We spend a lot of time and energy to keep these areas as clean as we can, because we want to.”

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Automotive Accessories

Power Plant is your premier car audio and truck accessory shop in the Magic valley!

Our professional installation services are done by trained experts.

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The Nuts & Bolts of Rock Crawling Rock crawling is an extreme form of off road driving using vehicles anywhere from stock to highly modified to overcome obstacles. In rock crawling, drivers drive highly modified four-wheel-drive vehicles such as trucks, Jeeps, and “buggies” over very harsh terrain. Driving locations include boulders, mountain foothills, rock piles, mountain trails, etc.

Rock crawling is about slowspeed, careful and precise driving, and high torque generated through large gear reductions in the vehicles drivetrain. Rock crawlers often drive up, down and across obstacles that would appear impassable.

Such vehicles to rock climb are primarily 4x4s.

Complete line of Audio and Video entertainment Full line of truck and suv accessories In dash navigation, bluetooth and media systems Lift kit - tire and wheel packages Automotive security and remote start systems Bed covers, power steps, towing needs Specialize in custom installation and interior design Leather interrior - cosmetic restyles

Lift kits • tool boxes • steps • winches • tires • wheels • bed covers • lights • floor mats • performance products and much more!

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208-737-9912 Boat, RV, Car or Truck we have done it all and have the awards to prove it!

M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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Joy Ride At Mueller Auto you’ll find quality vehicles that will make you smile and service that exceeds your expectations.

By Lisa Jensen Photos by Summer Brander

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ick Mueller believes no distance is too far for a great deal but, luckily for the residents of the Magic Valley, the trip to Mueller Auto is a short one. Located at 2441 Kimberly Road in Twin Falls, Rick Mueller’s dealership stands out as a car-buyer’s dream destination. Even before you pull onto the lot, you’re certain to spot one or two candidates for test-driving. Whether you’re looking for something new or used, Mueller Auto specializes in finding the vehicle you want, and ensuring it costs you less.

Rick and his son, Russ Mueller are pros at assisting customers, making purchases easier and less expensive.

The Muellers enjoy sales so much, they’ll even help sell your vehicle with free consignments on all makes and models including cars, trucks, motorcycles, RVs and ATVs. “If it’s got a title, we’ll consign it,” Rick says.

With 30 years in the business, Rick has perfected the art of pleasing customers. He learned the ropes working at Chevrolet and Ford dealerships in the Magic Valley, becoming skilled in all aspects of car sales.

“I did sales, finance and insurance,” Rick recounts. “I was a fleet manager and worked as a sales manager for new and used cars. I also held many positions with the Idaho State Independent Auto Dealer Association, including serving as president.”

Over the years, Rick excelled in all areas but did especially well in sales, garnering Grand-Masters honors. It’s Ford’s most prestigious award, acknowledging superior performance in every facet of the business including sales excellence and customer service. It involves a staggering number of sales for just one person, and it’s an accomplishment Rick Mueller succeeded in achieving three years running.

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Automotive Sales

2441 Kimberly Rd, Twin Falls, ID

736-3325

www.muellerauto.net

“I had to sell at least 500 vehicles, and I sold 528 one year. Plus I had to retain a customer satisfaction index of 9.0 or better,” Mueller explains.

It’s that level of experience that helped Rick launch Mueller Auto in May of 1999.

Fourteen years later, it’s nice to know you can still get extraordinary service and satisfaction when you shop for a vehicle with Rick Mueller. Repeat business is a good indication that customer service is top-notch, and knowing that Mueller Auto will go above and beyond to get customers into the automobiles they’re looking for is what brings people back time after time.

“We do see a lot of repeat business,” Rick acknowledges.

“Things have been tough on the business and the community, but we’re grateful for the Magic Valley’s continued support.”

Mueller Auto has survived a lot over 14 years including road construction on Kimberly Road almost every summer, wars, economy ups and downs, embezzlement and a few years ago Rick was in an auto accident that he is still recovering from physically. Thankfully, his son, Russ, was on board to keep things running smoothly.

“The accident left me with several injuries that required multiple surgeries, including a knee replacement and a nine-level fusion in my neck,” Mueller says, rubbing a hand

against his injured neck. “At least Russ was here to take care of the dealership, since I wasn’t able to be active in the business.”

Slowing down to focus on recovery is hard for an active guy like Rick. He’s raised cattle for years and has worked with horses ever since his daughter competed in the rodeo queening circuit. The Mueller’s became active as leaders when their kids got involved in 4H, and Rick still makes a point to buy a grand champion beef, pig or lamb each year to show his continued support of the local youth organization.

That community and family are foremost in Rick Mueller’s mind is clear, and he’s made Mueller Auto a true family business.

“My wife, Leesa, has helped in many areas of the business. Russ works here now and my two daughters both worked at the dealership while growing up,” Rick says with obvious pride. Additionally, his grandchildren are set to carry on the tradition when they come to work at Mueller Auto starting in the summer of 2014.

Keeping it in the family has endowed Mueller Auto with a straightforward and down-to-earth atmosphere. It’s nice to deal with people who feel like long-time friends from the moment you first shake hands. Rick and Russ truly want to make your auto shopping experience easy. And that, as Rick says, is what auto sales ought to be.

M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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You’re Under Arrest!

The truth about missing jury duty.

By Karleigh Deeds Photos by Summer Brander

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ate in 2013, my mother got a call from a person wanting to speak with me. The caller asked for me by my maiden name and claimed that I had a warrant out for my arrest.

Sensing it was a scam, she hung up on the guy, then promptly called to tell me about it. The call piqued my curiosity, so I called him back the next day.

When I dialed the number, I got a recording telling me that I had reached the U.S. District of Idaho Federal Court Division, to leave a message and an agent would call me back. About 15 minutes later a guy named Charles called me. He verified my address (my mom’s address actually, one at which I’ve never resided), my name and told me that I had failed to appear before Judge Brian Johnson on September 16, 2013 for jury duty. A warrant had been issued for my arrest. My heart began pounding. Who wants a warrant out for their arrest?

I informed Charles that I had never received the summons, but I wanted to work with him to settle the matter. He told me I could take care of it by simply paying a fine—to the tune of $489.74, to be exact—or turn myself in to the local police station and wait in lockup until my case would be heard by a judge. I agreed to pay the fine. Charles told me that I had to meet him at the Federal building in Boise with a pay pack, which I could get at Walgreens (a pay pack is like a pre-loaded credit card).

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Even though it was nearly 5 p.m. and I knew the Federal building was going to be closed (Charles assured me that he would be there since he was working overtime due to the government shutdown). I picked up my husband at work and headed down there without the money. Charles told me I’d be arrested if I didn’t have the money, but that was a risk I was willing to take. When I arrived, the only people still on site were the security guard and a few U.S. Marshals. I called Charles, but he never called me back. The marshal said this was likely a scam, but just to be on the safe side I was to come back in the morning and talk with the Jury Administrator, which is just what I did.

It turns out it was a scam, though I can’t figure out why Charles insisted that I go to the Federal building (thank goodness I live in Boise and that wasn’t a big deal for me). I can’t figure out how he was going to get the money from me either.

The administrator told me that this scam has been going on for a while and that most people end up paying over the phone with a credit card (Charles had told me no credit cards though.) The FBI is fairly certain that this is an overseas based scam and that they are still investigating it. I filled out some paperwork, documenting my experience and went home relieved and a little bit wiser.

But it did get me thinking, what does happen if you miss jury duty?

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Bail Bonds/Boats

We are locally owned & operated.

Serving all of Idaho 208-736-0222 Taking your civic duty seriously According to Idaho Code 2-217, if you fail to appear for jury duty for county court: “The court may issue an order requiring you to appear in court and show cause why should not be held in contempt. If the court finds in contempt, you could be jailed for up to three days or be required to pay a fine of up to $300, or both.”

Try dismissing a district court summons and: “Any person who fails to appear pursuant to such order or who fails to show good cause for noncompliance with the summons may be fined not more than $1,000, imprisoned not more than three days, ordered to perform community service or any combination thereof.”

If you do miss jury duty, the court will NOT call you. They will send you a letter in the mail.

Reporting Scams

If you think you have encountered a jury scam, like I did, report it immediately.

For District Court, contact Jury Administrator Sherry Karcher at 208-334-9476.

Twin Falls Jury Commissioner Jerry Woolley at 208-736-0048 M agic Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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ACCOUNT ABILITY The City of Twin Falls’ accounts are in the capable hands of Lorie Race.

By Lisa Jensen Photo by Summer Brander

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rowing, prosperous cities are run like a business and, as with any successful business, they must employ a Chief Financial Officer to oversee budget, finance and reporting issues. For the thriving city of Twin Falls, the CFO duties belong to Lorie Race. Her pleasant, soft-spoken nature belies her financial savvy, and you’d never guess that she’s essentially been training most of her career for the position she holds now.

“I grew up in the City Finance Department,” Race says. “I’d just been married and had no children when I started as the Budget Coordinator in 1989.”

Twenty-five years later, she now has two grown children, has worked her way through the department and was promoted to Chief Financial Officer in 2009.

It was her first job with the city, though that Race feels was key in preparing her for the position of CFO. “Having worked as Budget Coordinator, I really understand the budget for the City of Twin Falls. I was the assistant to the Finance Director, too, and was instrumental in helping the director at the time, so it prepared me to be in this position now.”

As CFO for the City of Twin Falls, Lorie Race heads up a department of 12 people. The finance side handles the budget, paying bills, auditing and collecting money, while the utility billing side takes care of billing for city services such as water, sewer and sanitation. In addition to overseeing the department, Lorie herself is responsible for the investments for the city, for revenue projections and for analyzing and reviewing finances, but she points back to the people she works with for her success.

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Lorie Race, City of Twin Falls CFO

“My Assistant Director (Brent Hyatt) is responsible for the budget,” Race says. “The Budget Coordinator (Pat Lehman) manages accounts payable. Then we have the Finance Accountant (Bill Baxter). He supervises the cashiers and the billing clerk in utility billing, and has been very instrumental in keeping tabs on our enterprise funds—water, sewer, sanitation. So, yeah, I’ve got a very great team. You tend to take them for granted because everything flows and works together so well, but I couldn’t do my job without them.”

Race especially enjoys the historical nature of the job. She sees accounting as a way to not only tell where the city has been, but also to look into the future to see where it’s going.

“For me, those numbers can really tell a story,” explains Race. “Right now I’m getting ready to do a six-month presentation to the City Council. I look at the budget now, what we’re spending and where we’re at, and project forward so I can not only tell them where we’re at, but share with them where I think we’re going to be and why.”

Spending so many years with the same organization has placed Lorie Race in a unique position of being able to see all the changes the city has gone through.

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Banks

“For me, those numbers can really tell a story.”

—Lorie Race, CFO “We’ve really gone from a large town to a small city,” Race says, looking back. “But we’ve had such great leadership all the way since I started. Even with the current City Manager (John Caton), there’s still such great leadership. When we hit the economic downturn in 2008, while we had to cut back because of current revenues, we were still in a pretty darn good position, and I have to attribute that to prior management.”

Twin Falls has been fortunate with more than its share of responsible, caring people who work together well. It’s a combination that Race sees as largely responsible for the city’s prosperity. As it happens, the people are also her favorite part of the job.

“I do like the people I work with,” Race affirms. “They’re a good group and they make the City of Twin Falls a great organization from the top down. There’s a lot of caring, not only for each other, but for the citizens. It’s an outstanding organization and I’m very happy to be a part of it.”

BUSINESS PERSONAL MORTGAGES We are more than a neighborhood bank. More than a community bank. More than what you expect. At Farmers, we are your one-stop banking solution with offices in Buhl, Twin Falls, Jerome, and Wendell.

We’re banking on the Magic Valley. www.farmersnatlbank.com M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 39

Adjusting Your View of Healthcare

Finding the right doctor makes all the difference in getting quality care.

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pine injuries are some of the most common complications we experience as humans.

They’re also some of the most misunderstood.

But Anthony Sirucek, DC of Sirucek Spine and Injury Center is trying to change that.

As a member of the American Academy of Medical-Legal Professionals, Dr. Sirucek has extensive knowledge of the latest research on the diagnosis and treatment of spinal related conditions as reported in recently published peer-reviewed medical research. He’s able to work with medical professionals and attorneys to help them better understand the complexities of spinal related injuries.

“I work with numerous attorneys as their medical expert,” explains Dr. Sirucek. “When a person with medical-legal issues hires me as their doctor, their attorneys know that they can start with me and go all the way to trial if necessary.

I also work with and review medical files for the defense, allowing me a unique view of how various doctors treat their patients.”

This insight into how other medical professionals are dealing with spinal injuries is a constant reminder to Dr. Sirucek to be as thorough as possible in getting the correct diagnosis. “I believe in

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Photos by Summer Brander

getting things done right the first time and saving my patients money by avoiding unnecessary test and procedures. My goal as a primary care doctor (MDs and DOs are also primary care doctors) is to exam and understand what issues are causing the pain,” says Dr. Sirucek.

Getting an accurate history from the patient is crucial. With this information Dr. Sirucek is able to give an accurate diagnosis and prognosis, then provide the most effective treatment for his patients’ injuries. When dealing with chronic pain, a common issue for chiropractic patients, Dr. Sirucek emphasizes the importance of having a healthy lifestyle rather than relying on surgery or prescription drugs (other than natural dietary supplements).

“Today, chronic pain is one of the most common reasons for patients to seek medical care; its estimated that 35 percent of the US population in general, 25 percent of children younger than 18 years, and 50 percent of community-dwelling older adults experience chronic pain. The majority of chronic pain is spine related.”1 The increase in chronic pain among Americans isn’t just hurting them physically. “Total estimated expenditures among the individuals with spine

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problems increased 65 percent (adjusted for inflation) from 1997 to 2005 more rapidly than overall health expenditures.”1 It is also well established that the frequent use of opioid medication is of growing concern especially since the utilization of narcotic medication is increasing while the chronic pain problem is also increasing.

There is an obvious need for a safe, low cost alternative to pharmaceutical chronic pain management. Increasing evidence in scientific literature points to the long standing tradition of

Chiropractor

using chiropractic care to deal with chronic pain.

Dr. Sirucek has made it his mission (and his mission statement) to provide his patients with “Quality living the rest of our lives.”

“At my office we want our patients to live long lives but we want them to be happy, healthy years filled with activity. We want to prevent disease and sickness whenever possible. We want to run, jump and play like we did when we were children, and we want to ensure our children inherit a world better than the one we inherited,” says Dr. Sirucek.

For over 30 years, Dr. Sirucek has been an advocate for patient well-being. His commitment to educating the medical and legal community on safer, less invasive forms of treatment is matched by his dedication to his patients and helping them relieve their pain. “At my office, we anticipate and recognize patient concerns and make them our own.” Dr. Sirucek makes his patients his primary concern. Isn’t time you made Dr. Sirucek your primary care doctor?

Sirucek Spine and Injury Center 263 2nd Ave. North in Twin Falls 208-733-5555 For more information, visit our websites at www.

TwinFallsSpineInjury.com and www.teachchiros.com.

Free consultation

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Se Habla Espanol

Reference: Ronald J. Farabaugh DC, Mark D. Dehen, DC, Cheryl Hawk, DC, PhD. Management of Chronic Spine-Related Conditions: Consensus Recommendations of a Multidisciplinary Panel. J. Manipulative Physiol Ther; 33: 484-492, 2010.

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M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 41

Three thrill seekers prove no matter what your age or experience, an unforgettable aerial adventure is just a jump away.

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By Amber Daley Photos courtesy Luanne Horting and Sean Chuma

hat do a centenarian, doctor of physical therapy, and a former gymnast have in common? They have all BASE-jumped from the 486-foot Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls, Idaho. And all three are demonstrat- YOUNG AT HEART Meet 102-year-old Dorothy Custer. You might have ing that, while participating in the sport heard of her—Custer has appeared on the Tonight Show presents considerable risks, it can be with Jay Leno (not just once, but twice), is a recent winner relatively safe—if you’re prepared and of the Pioneer of the Year award, and has set an impressive world record: she’s the oldest person ever to successfully have obtained the proper training. complete a tandem BASE jump.

But this isn’t her first time taking a risk for a thrill. For her 101st birthday, just a year earlier, this centenarian went

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But if anyone is qualified to guide precious human cargo to safety during a tandem jump, it’s Chuma. Since becoming acquainted with the sport, he has performed 1,800 sky dives and over 2,400 BASE jumps—280 of which were tandem.

zip-lining in the Snake River Canyon. For those who know Custer best, it comes as no surprise that she has opted to celebrate recent birthdays in such a daring way. “She actually wanted to go sky diving,” remarks her grandson Greg with a laugh. “But we decided against it due to the amount of force it would put on her body.”

And those numbers—as well as his professional acumen—are growing steadily. Just last year, Chuma performed the world’s first tandem BASE jump from a building in Sibu, Malaysia. His jumping partner? An executive of the country’s tourism board. “It was a really big deal,” he says. Chuma has even been asked to return to Malaysia to perform more tandem jumps. “I’m sharing my sport with the world,” he says.

“I guess I’ve never been very afraid of many things,” says Custer. “All my life, I’ve said, ‘You can do it; you can do it.’ And I do it.” She has indeed done it—just about everything, in fact—except win the lottery. That’s what she wants for her 103rd birthday. “I’ve got the numbers all figured out,” she says. And why not? After all, Custer proves that, when you can BASE jump and zip line the Snake River Canyon after age 100, you can do just about anything.

THE DOCTOR IS IN— IN HIS HARNESS, THAT IS While most busy professionals are grabbing fast food or running laps on treadmills during their lunch hours, Doctor of Physical Therapy Marc Lambert is usually preparing his harness and parachute, because his midday break often entails a BASE jump from the Perrine Bridge.

THE SEASONED PRO If BASE jumping from the Perrine Bridge seems intense, imagine having a 102-year-old woman—or a foreign dignitary—strapped to you while you do it. But that’s all in a day’s work for Sean Chuma, founder of the world’s first commercial tandem BASE jumping company.

“I think I was more nervous than she was,” he says, recalling the 2013 tandem jump with Dorothy Custer.

“There was a lot of pressure; I was ready at any moment to say the wind wasn’t right, because my main focus was keeping her safe.”

Perhaps more unexpected than a BASE jumping physical therapist are the circumstances by which he was introduced to the sport: while treating a former patient for BASE jumping related injuries. “He showed me videos of himself jumping from the bridge in the months prior,” says Lambert. “That got me excited. I’d seen BASE jumps in the movies but never knew anyone that did it.”

That conversation set off an intensive schedule of BASE jumping training and education—one that spanned over six years and required over 200 sky dives. To date, Lambert has successfully completed nearly 500 BASE jumps and has no intention of stopping, despite seeing just about every injury related to the sport: broken backs, shoulders, and legs as well as dislocated hips.

To many, it may seem contradictory that a physical therapist engages in such a high-risk activity. But for Lambert, M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 43

its rewards outweigh potential dangers—and he knows better than to take unnecessary risks. “As long as you’ve prepared well and your gear is well maintained and you practice what you need to do, it should go well,” he says.

JUST HOW SAFE IS IT, REALLY? Gear, preparation, and skill aside, it doesn’t take a doctor—a doctor who has seen a handful of BASE-jumping injuries—to know this extreme sport is regarded as highly unsafe: according to a 2007 study, BASE jumping has a fatality and injury rate 43 times higher than that of parachuting from an airplane.

Earlier this year, two men were hospitalized after their attempt at a two-man jump from the Perrine Bridge went awry. “When you start doing tricks or adding too much too soon, that’s where it goes wrong,” says Lambert, citing a direct connection between injury (or worse, tragedy) and hastiness or insufficient preparation. “Usually accidents are caused by lack of experience or skill, and poor decisionmaking,” he says. “The ones that get hurt are usually trying to fast-track everything.” Lambert also mentions a phenomenon he calls “Kodak courage”—the propensity people have for doing risky things because a camera is rolling.

Chuma agrees that “rushing the process” and “trying things outside your skill level” are the primary causes of many of the injuries he has witnessed. Chuma’s own company, Tandem BASE, warns via its website: “BASE jumping is like any other extreme sport: there are inherent risks that require careful training and execution. Failure to follow that training can lead to serious injury or death.”

And while equipment and methods have evolved and improved over time, Tandem BASE acknowledges that “there is no perfect parachute, no perfect instructor, no perfect weather condition, and for that matter, no perfect student.” Tandem BASE jump students are strongly advised against pursuing BASE jumping without additional solo training.

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Despite all this, Chuma, Lambert, and many other BASE jumpers agree that, while the sport is inherently unsafe, it can be done safely—under the right circumstances and with the proper guidance. “It’s not like you’re rolling the dice every time,” explains Chuma. “If BASE jumping were like that—if there was a high risk of getting severely injured or dying on each jump—most of us wouldn’t do it.”

For those looking to try it, there is more to the sport than one might realize. For one thing, tandem jumps are not a safe means of transitioning into solo BASE jumping. Lambert stresses the importance of several prerequisites, which include completing hundreds of sky dives. “Learning to fly a parachute is what’s going to save your life,” he says.

Even after completing the required training and education, many variables factor into the BASE jumping equation—variables such as the height of the object from which a person is jumping, the weather (specifically wind and the amount of moisture in the air), and the landing area.

And recognizing how such details will affect a jump is a skill that takes several years and many jumps to master.

“The sport isn’t about someone being crazy enough to jump off something,” says Chuma. “It’s about doing your homework and being responsible enough to make the right decisions before you’re jumping.” Lambert similarly advises, “Know your limits.”

WHY THE APPEAL? While these three BASE jumpers—whether a centenarian and one-time tandem jumper, a daring physical therapist, or veteran of the sport—are far from fitting the adrenaline junkie stereotype, they all have one thing in common: their love for the thrill. “It’s just so freeing,” says Lambert. “And you build great relationships and learn life lessons when you BASE jump with other people.” Even Custer, whose infectious giggling during the jump is immortalized in a YouTube video, admits she’d do it again.

“I enjoyed the whole thing!” she exclaims.

Wanna Jump? What to Know Before You Go For those afraid of heights, maybe a rapid descent into the Snake River Canyon isn’t for you—or maybe it is. After all, some psychologists claim the best way to overcome such a fear is to gradually expose oneself to it.

If you’re at least 18 years old, capable of an active lifestyle, and you feel ready for such an adventure, contact Tandem BASE to learn more.

Certain physical characteristics (weight, body proportions, etc.) factor into a person’s ability to participate in a tandem jump.

Visit http://www.tandembase.com or call 208-546-9873 for details.

Chuma, a former ski instructor and competitive gymnast, knew as early as 8 years old that he would eventually be a BASE jumper or skydiver. “I always wanted to fly,” he says. “As a kid, I would watch shows depicting stuntmen, so a cape was a part of my daily wardrobe.”

Nearly every sport or activity in which he participated thereafter had something to do with being airborne— including his first sky dive at the age of 16.

“It’s all for the love of flight,” says Chuma. “I love the feeling of being disconnected from the earth, above the ground. In those first two or three seconds after you jump, you feel weightless, just like being in space. And once you speed up, you’re actually flying. It’s pretty amazing, almost spiritual.”

Custer, too, shares stories of her airborne adventures— many of which took place long before Chuma was born, let alone donned a cape. “I did all kinds of crazy things,” she says, recounting the many times she found any reason at all to climb to the top of a tree. This desire to soar has even shaped her perspective of the afterlife. “I’ll be a little butterfly,” she says, smiling, but only half-kidding.

While there is an incredible rush that invariably comes with BASE jumping, it’s more than the feeling of weightlessness that keeps Chuma in the air, so to speak. “Since BASE jumping is self-regulated, I feel a responsibility to protect it,” he says. “Everything I do is for the good of the sport. I want people to experience the same feelings we feel when we BASE jump, and to understand why we do it.”

When Chuma reflects on his jump with Custer, he realizes that people are indeed beginning to understand.

“Dorothy has inspired the world,” he says. “There shouldn’t be anything that holds people back, especially age. Days are limited, so if you want to live with no regrets, then you go and do what you want to do—but you’re smart about it and you go about it the right way.

“It’s an activity that should be celebrated.”

Back to Base(ics) - Facts About the Sport “BASE” is an acronym that stands for four types of objects from which a person can jump: building, antenna, span, and Earth.

Twin Falls’ Perrine Bridge is named after I.B. Perrine, the man largely credited as the city’s founder. When it was opened to traffic in 1927 as the Twin Falls-Jerome Intercounty Bridge, it was the highest bridge in the world.

The Perrine Bridge is the only man-made structure in the United States where BASE jumping is allowed year-round without a permit, a characteristic that makes Twin Falls a mecca for the sport.

In 1974, Evel Knievel’s unsuccessful attempt to jump the Snake River Canyon on a steampowered skycycle resulted in only a broken nose. The ramp he used is still visible from the Perrine Bridge.

M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 45

Need a Lift?

If you need a tow, auto body work, or even demolition Marky’s Super Tow is the place to call.

By Joseph Talbot

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Photos by Summer Brander

or 25 years Marky’s Super Tow in Twin Falls has been providing vehicle services for the residents of the Magic Valley. They specialize in vehicle transportation and auto body repair, but recently have made a foray into the world of demolition with the purchase of Twin Falls Crane, another established business in the Magic Valley. This diversity in the services they offer makes Marky’s Super Tow a truly important number to have on speed dial. Imagine if …

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Cranes

One You’ve been traveling for hours on your way to Redfish Lake for some summer fun.

Your kids have reached that crucial point where they’ve played with everything they brought and they are complaining about the long drive. Not even the DVD’s can stem the tide of whining and you are seriously considering leaving them at the Timmerman rest stop. Your 95 Chevy Suburban is a veteran of many trips but as you traverse the lava fields north of Shoshone you notice something different, a vibration you’ve never heard before. Then you glance at the gauges and the whining of your children fades away as you realize the trip is over. You manage to pull the old gas guzzler to the shoulder, just as it sputters its last smoky breath and everyone freaks out—except you. You pull out your cell phone and dial (208) 733-1427, for Marky’s Super Tow.

Two You pull out of the driveway in your brand new Camaro, breathing deeply the aroma of new car and satisfaction. You’ve spent years dreaming of this ride and now it’s finally here. You turn down Addison and head towards the Sonic, eager to show off what years of persistence and determination has earned you, but as you pass through the five points intersection you feel the back end of your new ride lift and swerve behind you as the crunch of bumpers and fenders brings tears to your eyes. Later, as you stare down at the mangled cherry red fender with a Honda bumper wedged underneath you take a deep breath and pull out your phone. There is little point in complaining about teenagers behind the wheel with cell phones, the best thing to do now is call (208) 733-1427, for Marky’s Super Tow. They will tow your ride AND fix the fender, too.

Three It’s taken years of searching, but you’ve finally found that old muscle car you’ve been wanting to rebuild since you were 16. It doesn’t drive and you need to get it home, but there is a problem. It’s over 50 miles away, and there are several major highways you need to travel before getting home. You could go to Wal-Mart, buy a tow rope, then call a friend and hope they are brave enough to steer a dead car without working brakes…or you could call (208) 733-1427, for Marky’s Super Tow.

1406 Kimberly Rd. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.1427

These are just a few of the reasons to call Marky’s, but the service doesn’t end with vehicles. With their purchase of Twin Falls Crane, Marky’s Super Tow has become the place to go for any service where something heavy needs to be somewhere high. Air conditioner season is starting back up, and if you are a contractor looking to place a heavy unit on a rooftop, spare your back and call Marky’s. If your sign making business needs to place a large sign in an elevated position, put away the ladders and call Marky’s. If you are one of the many contractors doing business in the Magic Valley, and you find yourself in need of crane service of any kind, call Marky’s Super Tow, at 208-733-1427. They have what you need to get the job done.

M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 47

! h h hLibrary has a Secret to Share SThe Twin Falls Public Library offers more than just books.

I

By Lisa Jensen Photos by Summer Brander

f you haven’t been to the library recently, you’re long overdue for a visit and may be in for a surprise. The Twin Falls Public Library is more than a warehouse for books, magazines and newspapers, and it has something for everyone of all ages.

and the library hosts events for kids to construct and create things with those materials.

While the library has an extensive youth program, it caters equally to adults. In addition to the usual resources the library hosts book clubs or you can check out book club kits to host your own group.

Times have changed, though, and so has the media through which people get their information and entertainment. According to Reference Librarian Jessica Tueller, the Twin Falls Public Library keeps up through a membership to a digital library, allowing them to offer e-books to checkout and read on electronic devices.

“We also have the Freegal music service, so you can download MP3 songs to listen to, store on your player or burn,” Tueller says.

You can even pick up a new language at the library through Mango Languages, a program similar to Rosetta Stone. With an account on the library’s website, you can learn over 50 languages at your own pace through the intuitive, conversational program.

One unique feature Library Director Susan Ash recommends seeing is the Idaho Room. It’s an area dedicated to one-of-a-kind materials that recount the history of Idaho and the Magic Valley. Included is a collection of photos and glass plate negatives from the early 1900s taken by Clarence Bisbee.

When they say “all ages,” they really mean it. Erica Littlefield, Youth Services Supervisor, outlines the wide variety of programs for kids from teens on down to 18 months.

“We have sing-alongs and story time for kids under three. There are movie, video game and craft days for elementary-aged kids and teens,” explains Littlefield. “We have a family movie matinee every Saturday and, once a month, we host a craft week.”

Additionally, the Twin Falls Public Library was chosen as one of 11 libraries across the state to participate in “Make It At the Library.” Sponsored by the Idaho Commission for Libraries, the program introduces teens and ‘tweens to hobbies, creation and design. The ICL supplies training and materials, 48 | Mag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014

Those with the time and inclination to volunteer can help mend books, perform computer data entry and prepare books to go on the shelves. Ash says that they benefit most from volunteers who can commit to a few hours twice a week.

“It takes time and effort to get the volunteers trained,” she says, “so it’s best if they plan on putting in 25 hours over a year’s time.”

The library’s perpetual goal is to provide resources to benefit the residents of the Magic Valley. The ideal examples are two new programs slated to start in the fall of 2014. “The first is a smart investing program to help the community learn about financial literacy,” Ash explains.

“We’ve also received a ‘Let’s Talk About It’ grant which enables us to host reading discussion groups and bring in a speaker, like a humanities scholar from CSI, to lead the discussion.”

C

Credit Unions

Moving Your Money Forward® Since 1954 Become a member! www.pioneerfcu.org/join

With all the useful programs and various forms of education and entertainment, the question may not be “When did you last visit the library?” but “Why haven’t you been lately?”

As Susan Ash puts it: “It’s such a great resource and people aren’t aware of what’s available—and it’s free!”

201 Fourth Ave. East, Twin Falls, ID 208.733.2964 twinfallspubliclibrary.org M - Th 9 a.m. to 9 p.m F - Sa 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

personal

‘‘

PFCU is always right there to help us out...they take the whole banking business feel out of it and they make it more of a relationship feel. It’s personal. They know us as a family.

12 Idaho locations to serve you (208) 585-2851 www.pioneerfcu.org

,,

—Jeff and Candi H. Members since 2009

Federally Insured by NCUA M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 49

Smile Specialist

Dr. Paul Romriell with First Choice Dental provides

By Lisa Jensen specialist level care for everyday patients.

Photos Courtesy of First Choice Dental

H

ow many people can say that their dentist is a prosthodontics specialist? For starters, all the patients at First Choice Dental can. After completing four years of dental school, Dr. Paul Romriell put an additional four years into a residency in prosthodontics, learning everything there is to know about crowns, dentures, implants and pretty much anything that replaces lost teeth.

The misleading thing about “prosthodontics” is the name itself. Everyone knows about dentures and implants, but few people are familiar with the clinical name. Educating the public about the focus of his practice is high on Dr. Romriell’s priority list, almost up there with providing a full range of dental services to his clients at competitive rates.

“Paul provides all adult dental services except for root canals,” explains office manager Janelle Romriell. “He is a perfectionist, so he does flawless work, even repairing complicated problems that others have tried, and failed, to fix. And even though he’s a specialist, his prices aren’t higher than what other dentists charge.”

Being a perfectionist with a sympathetic streak is a combination that’s agreeable for Dr. Romriell, and one that serves the dental patients of the Magic Valley well. Paul Romriell followed in his father’s footsteps, deciding on a career in dentistry after seeing how far his dad was able to go in making a difference in his patients’ lives. That early spark of interest turned into a passion for helping people and easing their pain. It also led to an incredible fellowship opportunity after Dr. Romriell completed his residency.

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Dentists

“He worked with the tumor board at the Indiana University medical school,” Janelle says. “They treat people who have had cancer, and Paul was trained to do silicon prosthetics, replacing ears and other facial features that had been marred or disfigured by the disease.”

As would be expected from a stickler for perfection, Dr. Romriell honed that skill until he was able to seamlessly replace with prosthetics what disease had taken away—much to the (sometimes) tearful delight of patients. “It’s a pretty big deal for someone who has had to live without a nose to be able to confidently go out in public, even just to a restaurant. It’s like giving them their life back,” explains Janelle.

Although he would welcome more opportunities to use his facial prosthetics skills to help people who would benefit from them, these days the focus of Dr. Romriell’s practice is on dentistry and prosthodontics. He understands how important it is for someone in pain to be able to get immediate relief.

That understanding has prompted him to see patients for emergencies outside of business hours and even to cut holidays and vacations short to meet patients, too. People who have experienced such debilitating pain from a broken tooth or an abscess that they can’t talk or eat, appreciate what that level of dedication can mean.

Part of that dedication includes making things as easy as possible for patients. People coming in for an implant, for example, don’t get referred out to several other specialists for the various steps of the

making specialized dentistry affordable

142 River Vista Place Twins Falls, ID 83301 Call Today 208-734-7246 procedure. With a high-tech 3D x-ray machine and other cutting-edge dental equipment, Dr. Romriell can plan the procedure and take care of it all in his office, translating into as few visits as possible for the patient and just one bill in the end.

Most people are not used to seeing a specialist without a referral from their regular doctor, but Dr. Romriell’s commitment to client satisfaction means anyone can call the office and schedule their own appointment. Not surprisingly, his accessibility is one of the reasons First Choice Dental has a high rate of satisfied clients. With Dr. Paul Romriell’s devotion to over-delivering and daily challenging himself to exceed people’s expectations, patient satisfaction will certainly continue to be a hallmark at First Choice Dental.

M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 51

College Students that Care The students at CSI Dental Hygiene clinic are reaching out to an underserved part of the community. By Doug Maughan

F

iltered sunlight adds to the bright, bustling atmosphere of a modern, fully-equipped lab at the College of Southern Idaho’s Health Science Center on North College Road in Twin Falls. Students in purple lab coats hurry about, individually or in small groups, always under the supervision of nearby medical professionals.

Twelve dental chairs are filled with men, women, and children getting X-rays, exams, and various other types of emergency care. Welcome to the CSI Dental Hygiene clinic.

The newest of the 14 health profession programs in this modern LEED-certified building, Dental Hygiene is one of the most sought-after and demanding. “Dental Hygiene is a little different kind of program at several levels,” says CSI Health Science Department Chair, Dr. Mark Sugden. “Our other students travel off campus and 52 | Mag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014

sometimes even out of town to fulfill their necessary clinical experience. Dental Hygiene students, on the other hand, stay in their own clinic where a team of 33 instructors, dentists, hygienists, and other professionals come to them.”

And those people in the dental chairs? They’re real patients with real dental needs. A steady stream of them come to the CSI Dental Hygiene clinic each weekday during the fall and spring semesters to get low-cost care, including prophylaxis, radiographs, extractions, and fillings.

“The need in this community is just overwhelming,” says Sugden. “It’s hard to believe how many people have no other way of getting basic or emergency dental care. We could operate every day, year around and still not fill the need.”

The patients are referred to the CSI clinic from more than 10 local and state agencies, the local school district, and homeless and substance abuse centers.

McKinsey Speirs, a spring 2014 graduate, writes: “I was able to provide oral care for a man who was born with cerebral palsy … We worked as a team, assisting him from his wheelchair and making him comfortable. He received x-rays, scaling, local anesthesia, a dental exam, application of fluoride varnish with home care aids, and instruction. It was a wonderful learning experience and rewarding to know I could improve the oral health of an underserved member of my community.”

Senior student Erica Craven writes: “Every couple of months for two semesters, I provided care for a patient recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. My classmates

and I became a part of her recovery and offered non-judgmental, compassionate service. We helped motivate her toward healthier habits and goals, one of which was her graduation from college. She invited all of us to the ceremony, which helped us realize the importance of our mission and calling as dental hygienists.”

The 10 students in each class cohort learn and struggle together, sharing each other’s successes and frustrations. The instructors can’t help getting caught up in the emotion, too, says Dental Hygiene Professor Cynthia Harding. “The bond we form as we become invested in our students’ success is almost like family. We’re together not only through the rigors of the program, but also for the marriages, life traumas,

pregnancies, and other life events. Then the emotional rollercoaster gets even more turbulent as we approach graduation with National Board licensure requirements. We’re excited to see them become licensed professionals but torn as we say goodbye to the students we’ve nurtured, advised, corrected, and encouraged for two challenging years.”

Though the job market for dental hygienists is tight right now, each spring CSI graduates have been eagerly recruited because of the quality of their training—a reflection of the program’s goals of clinical proficiency, leadership, team-building, communication, and organization skills. Each graduate also takes with them a strong commitment to community involvement and service thanks to the CSI Dental Hygiene program.

M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 53

The “Wright” Dentist

for the Magic Valley

Dr. Mark Wright and his exclusive staff are dedicated to patient satisfaction. By Lisa Jensen

M

Photos by Summer Brander

ost people avoid trips to the dentist, even if the office is conveniently close. That’s why it’s amazing that patients make the drive to Twin Falls from Hailey, Caldwell, Pocatello, and even from as far away as Elko, all for an appointment with Mark Wright, DDS. If you’re wondering what his secret is, this dentist doesn’t have to employ mysterious tactics. Instead, his methods are simple, if unexpected: consideration and compassion.

Mark Wright’s philosophy is to treat patients as he would treat members of his own family. It’s a novel method in the dentistry field, but patients’ comfort on every level is top-priority for Dr. Wright’s entire staff.

“From the minute you call for an appointment, you’re treated very well throughout the process, whether you’re a new patient or you’ve been coming here for 10 years,” says office manager Karla Cunha. “And the doctor does not like anyone to be in pain.”

That alone is comforting, especially if you break a tooth or wake up with an abscess. With most other dental offices you may be lucky to get in to see the dentist within a week, but you’ll get preferential treatment when you call Dr. Wright’s office.

“If somebody calls in with an emergency, we try our best to work them in that day,” says hygienist Valerie Steinmetz. “We do what we can so they don’t have to wait even overnight.”

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Dentists

That policy applies to new and established patients. It’s part of the personalized attention the entire staff is dedicated to giving.

“It seems like the trend in dentistry is toward ‘mega offices’,” Steinmetz explains. “You may not see the same dentist from one visit to the next, and you may never have the same hygienist twice, ever. We’re so small, we’re just like a family and we consider our patients family, too.”

A fifth generation Idahoan, Dr. Wright began his preparations to create a patient-focused practice when he was accepted into the Idaho Dental Education Program in 1993. After graduating from the Creighton University School of Dentistry in 1997, he immediately opened his office in Twin Falls. With a goal of furthering his education and skills, he then went on to complete graduate studies from the Graduate Brookdale Hospital/ NYU Implantology MaxiCourse in 2000.

Dr. Wright’s education and experience allow him to offer patients extensive basic and advanced services— everything from cleaning to root canals to full mouth extractions. His office works closely with the Magic Valley Denture Center and is also proud to be one of the few dental offices who use IV sedation, which is especially useful for special needs patients or ones who experience extreme anxiety.

A warm and pleasant team of professionals who share his vision for the practice and concern for patients is another secret to Dr. Wright’s success. His assistant Michelle Brecht along with hygienist Valerie Steinmetz and office manager Karla Cunha believe in making everyone’s trip to the dentist as good as possible, and each takes personal responsibility for making that happen.

Additionally, it’s a plus when your dentist can help make the visit affordable.

“When most people hear ‘dentist’ they think of their wallet first,” Cunha says. “But in these economic times, we understand that dental care might not be considered a budget necessity, so we have ways to see that our patients get the treatment they need and deserve.”

Zero-percent, guaranteed financing is a good deal for anyone, and it’s always an option for Dr. Wright’s patients.

Happy patients are what Dr. Wright’s team strives for and, if the walls in the office are any indication, they exceed

their goal daily. Cards and letters tacked up behind the front desk remind them that they’re doing their job well.

“You have changed my life with the excellent work you have done for me,” begins one letter. “...my teeth look great and also you treated me in a genuine sincere and professional way.

This means a great deal to me,” says another.

Seeing the gratitude in writing, it’s easy to understand why patients near and far trust this friendly dental office with their smiles. It’s also proof that they’ve found the “Wright” dentist.

Mark W. Wright D.D.S., P.A. 414 Shoup Ave. Ste. A Twin Falls, ID

208.735.1345 www.markwrightdds.com

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Delicate Dentistry Sawtooth Dental is where experience meets comfort.

Giving Back The dentists and staff at Sawtooth Dental regularly volunteer time at the CSI Dental Clinic. They also participate in the annually held event, Give Kids a Smile program which provides free dental care for a number of children through the South Central Idaho Dental Society.

By Joseph Talbot Photos Courtesy of Sawtooth Dental

N

othing frames the face better than an attractive smile. It gives you confidence and people are drawn to you without really knowing why.

Many adults want to change their lives with a smile makeover. Some want to correct problems they have had since childhood such as discolored, gaped, or crooked teeth. Others want to correct time-related conditions, such as cracked or worn-down teeth, to help create a more youthful functional smile.

If any of this sounds familiar, Sawtooth Dental has the service, experience and technology to help you out. With three locations—Twin Falls, Shoshone, and Hagerman—to more easily serve patients throughout the Magic Valley, the staff at Sawtooth Dental strives to make your experience in the dentist’s chair a pleasant and pain free one. “From the moment you step in our office, you will be impressed that we are not a volume type dental practice,” says Stephen Dixon, DDS. “We will take the time to compassionately listen and treat you, our guests, with the dignity and respect you deserve.”

Following in the footsteps of his father Gary Dixon, DDS, who also practices at Sawtooth Dental, Dr. Stephen Dixon has learned to integrate customer service into his practice in a way that helps patients feel comfortable. “My goals for my patients are that whenever I see them their concerns are addressed, that the dentistry we do looks good, lasts a long time, and that the patient is comfortable,” says Dr. Stephen Dixon.

discomfort after “deep cleanings” and more comfortable digital x-ray equipment that minimizes everyones exposure to radiation.

For over 30 years the dentists at Sawtooth Dental have built a reputation for excellence in dental care.

And while the doctors and staff enjoy the practice’s new Twin Falls office, it is their patients who benefit the most. From the very beginning of the design phase, the office was built with patients’ comfort in mind. “We wanted the waiting room to feel like an extension of our patients’ living rooms,” says Dr. Eric Thomas. The dedication didn’t end there. Sawtooth Dental has invested in new technology that speeds healing and reduces

“We always like to tell the patient what their options are, not only with the procedures but with the cost and the payment sources, like what their insurance benefits are or alternative methods of dental care financing, before we start the procedure,” says Dr. Thomas. On approved credit, up to 12 months of interest free financing is available through Care Credit for many patients. This approach puts the patients in control and lets them know that their input into the process is being utilized.

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Part of the apprehension many feel when walking through the doors of a dentist’s office is the payment process. How to cover the bill is one of the most difficult questions of any visit to a healthcare provider, even with insurance and co-pays.

D The winning combination of experience and professional service from Sawtooth Dental makes them a clear choice for those seeking a provider of dental care. Regardless if you require sedation dentistry, a basic check-up or a more advanced procedure, the staff at Sawtooth Dental can accommodate your needs. And age is not a factor—patients from the very young to the very old, and everyone in between are welcome.

So if you’re looking for an experienced team who utilize the most advanced tools and procedures to provide professional and cost effective care, look no further than Sawtooth Dental.

Dentists

The Importance of Proper Dental Care Neglecting oral or dental health can have significant and real long term effects on our health. Tooth decay and gum disease are both bacterial infections in our mouths. Infection activates the body’s immune responses and left untreated, weakens the body’s ability to fight off other infections leading to feeling run down and fatigued. Our bodies try to fight off dental infections, but can’t because the tooth decay causing bacteria technically live outside our immune system’s reach, in the plaque and calculus on and around our teeth.

Postponing dental care because you can’t “afford it” is like driving around on a flat tire, because its too expensive to fix. No one drives around for a year or more on a flat tire because they can’t afford it.

1437 Park View Dr., Twin Falls, ID

208.733.4515

sawtoothdental.com

Dr. Stephen Dixon, Dr. Gary Dixon, Dr. Eric Thomas M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 57

Downtown is the Place to Be Historic Olde Town is thriving in Twin Falls.

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owntown districts are often the heart of any city and Twin Falls is no exception to this truth.

Historic Olde Town is an unique association of independent and diverse businesses who service a wide range of customers and clients. With a commitment to community, Downtown Twin Falls provides both character and charm to our city. Come down and enjoy the park, the various art installations made possible by the Magic Valley Arts Council, or take a self-guided tour of the historic buildings which were the foundation of our great city. And check out a few of these fine merchants while you are at it.

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Downtown Ken at The Repair Shop has over 40 years of experience fixing electronics, tools, lamps, clocks, phonographs, antiques and many other household items. We have the lowest rates of most shops. Come see our unique sales floor too! We also buy and trade.

Nelson Realty LLC 200 Third Avenue East 208.734.3930 www.NelsonRealtyID.com M - F 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.; 1 to 5 p.m.

Nelson Realty is a locally owned and operated company. Gary and Shirley established it in 1986. Sheree Nelson joined the firm in 1988 and Debra Nelson Requa transferred from Boise in 2000.

We are a small, independent real estate firm that takes great pride in our customer service.

Doggy Styles 520 Main Ave. S. 208.404.8498 www.tfdoggystyles.vpweb.com

By Appointment

Are you looking for some innovative flooring solutions to complement the beauty of your home? We offer all types of flooring solutions all under one roof. Our trained and experienced flooring professionals will consult with you to find the most suitable flooring to fit your needs. Low overhead equals the best possible prices. Quality flooring materials and experienced installation team leads to customer satisfaction.

For more than 40 years we’ve been grooming happy pups. Formerly on Blue Lakes Blvd, Doggy Styles moved to their great new downtown location to better serve our clients. Personalized, professional care has lead to customer satisfaction and referrals, allowing our business to grow. We cater to all breeds large and small, young and old. Come see why we were voted Best Groomer in Southern Idaho. Your dog is going to love this!

Downtown

Idaho Carpet 305 Shoshone Street S. 208.733.2251 www.idahocarpet.co M - F 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays by appointment

Downtown

The Repair Shop 612 Main Ave. N. 208.731.0426 M - F 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sa. 12 to 5 p.m.

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Downtown

Downtown

Downtown Stevens Pierce & Associates, CPAs 320 Main Ave. N. 208.734.8662 www.twinfallscpa.com M - F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Stevens Pierce & Associates, CPAs is a leading edge local accounting firm. We balance our big firm experience with friendly, caring and knowledgeable staff.

Stevens Pierce & Associates, CPAs is committed to providing excellent service. We aim to exceed expectations. We take pride in our community through volunteer work and civic activities. Stevens Pierce & Associates, CPAs are your advocates and offer you timely, personal attention with honesty and integrity, effectively helping you achieve financial peace of mind.

Heart & Dagger Tattoo 434 Main Ave. S. 208-995-TAT2 Open T-Sa. Noon to 8:00 p.m.

Heart & Dagger Tattoo is Southern Idaho’s premier tattoo and body piercing studio. As host to nationally published, award-winning artists and illustrators, we specialize in creating a professional and custom experience for each individual. All staff members are trained in the most current sterilization, application and aftercare techniques available to the industry to ensure both your health and life of your artwork. When choosing a tattoo artist, it’s important to do your research. After browsing the resident portfolios, you’ll see we are more than prepared to bring you and your family’s tattoo to life in the safest and most effective way possible.

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Standard Printing Solutions 140 2nd Ave. N. 208.733.1449 standard@standardprt.com M - F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Standard Printing has been part of Twin Falls in the downtown area since 1918. As a full printing business, we provide statement processing which allows personalized printing for mailings, forms and all of your printing needs. Home of the PERKS Coupon Book featuring local businesses.

Advantage Archery 251 Main Ave. E. 208.735.9878 www.twinfallsarchery.com M - F 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sa. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Advantage Archery in Twin Falls, ID is your complete archery and hunting equipment, accessories, and instruction provider. We carry trusted brands such as Hoyt, Mathews, Prime Bows, Vortex Optics, Sitka Gear, Swarovski Optik, Badlands Packs, Blacks Creek Guide Gear, and G 5 Outdoors. Come check out our bow sales, service, and repair, archery accessories, camo clothing, and backpacks. Our trained professionals can help you with custom bows and arrows, too. With us, it’s quality products and services or nothing.

Downtown With all the new technology, sewing, quilting and embroidery are so easy. Stop in for a demonstration and see for yourself how easy it can be! We are dedicated to seeing that you get the training required to be completely familiar with your new machine and all of its capabilities. In addition to the training that comes with your new machine we offer a variety of classes and clubs. Check them out! We also have in-store scissor sharpening.

Laura Drake Insurance & Financial Services 401 Gooding St. N., Ste. 106 208.734.7227 www.LDINS.net M - Th. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; F 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

As a full service independent insurance agency, we help protect and preserve your assets. We offer Life, Health, Medicare, Long Term Care, Auto, Home, Commercial, Farm and Ranch insurance protection. We do our best to find the proper insurance at the best price for our clients.

We care about you!

The Brass Monkey 124 Main Ave. N. 208.944.9452 www.brassmonkeyclothing.com M - Sa. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

This is Your wedding. This is Your dream day. It is Your dress and Your style.

Your wedding is as unique as you are. For over eight years Christa’s has helped hundreds of brides achieve their dream wedding. From the details on your gown to your entire line of groomsmen, the staff at Christa’s will go above and beyond to insure that every detail of your special day is perfect.

Located in the heart of the Magic Valley, The Brass Monkey was established to provide the community with contemporary fashion trends from premium denim, fashion tops and accessories for women and men. The store’s number one goal is to provide quality service and stylish clothing at affordable prices.

Downtown

Christa’s Dress Shoppe & Tuxedo 202 Shoshone St. E. 208.735.5177 www.christas.biz T - F 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sa. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Downtown

Twin Falls Sewing Center 157 Main Ave. W 208.733.3344 www.tfsewing.com M - F 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Sa. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Education

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Standing Out in a Crowd For these four students, the future is looking very bright.

By Adrea Storey Photos by Summer Brander

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here are many qualities that can make a student exceptional. Unquestionably, academics is very important in school, but sometimes there is more to making a student outstanding. A student’s dedication to service, involvement in extracurricular activities, athleticism, and overall mentality are important traits to consider as well as their academic merit. These outstanding students possess certain traits that put them above the average student, and show they are willing to go the extra mile in all they do. The future looks bright with students like these in our midst.

Alvaro Peralta

Ismenia Gallegos Renee Peters

Reese Peters M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 63

Ismenia Gallegos School: Buhl High School Grade: Graduate of the Class of 2014 Claim to Fame: Key Club, Student Body President, Athlete, National Honor Society, Drama Club, Jazz Band, Pep Band Aspirations: Attend CSI Ismenia Gallegos is a born leader. As 2013-2014 Student Body President at Buhl High School, Ismenia’s cheerful bright personality can be heard echoing through classrooms and hallways as she bids her fellow students and faculty a good morning over the intercom.

Rarely will you find a student as well rounded and outgoing as Ismenia. During her senior year at Buhl, Ismenia was a member of National Honor Society and graduated in the top of her class with academic honors. However, it was her participation in widely varied extracurricular activities that is most impressive.

Being service-oriented is important to Ismenia, so it was only fitting that Key Club was an organization she felt most passionately about.

Key Club allowed her to give back to her community through programs like Toys for Tots.

Ismenia devotes much of her time to her faith, attending Buhl’s Calvary Chapel. There, she leads worship for her youth group The Branch, and works at the daycare. Additionally, she was actively involved in the Bible Club at Buhl High School.

A recent inductee into the National Thespian Society, Ismenia loves acting and belonged to Buhl’s Drama Club. She also kept Jazz Band and Pep Band on beat as their main drummer.

Ismenia’s idea of the perfect release is running down a field chasing a soccer ball. Yes, this girl, on top of everything else, is a stellar athlete. In addition to soccer she is in track, where her events are pole vaulting and the 100 meter dash.

Ismenia plans to continue her education at College of Southern Idaho initially, where she will most likely study education or psychology.

A beautiful person inside and out, Ismenia is an inspiration to her peers. Her driven, outgoing personality put her on a sure track to lead the way in whatever field she chooses.

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Alvaro Peralta School: Buhl High School Grade: Graduate of the Class of 2014 Claims to Fame: Soccer, Track, Bible Club, FHLA Aspirations: Attend CSI and UI, open an architecture firm

Buhl High School graduate Alvaro Peralta’s selflessness and overall character sets him apart from other students. Fellow outstanding student Ismenia Gallegos describes her former classmate as one of the most passionate, thoughtful, and caring individuals she has ever known. “He’s attuned to others’ feelings,” claims Ismenia.

Not only is Alvaro considerate of others, but his humbleness is inspiring.

When Alvaro was approached to be featured as an outstanding student he instantly thought someone else deserved recognition. “When the photographer called me and told me I had been chosen, my first reaction was wondering why Ismenia didn’t get chosen instead,” he laughs.

Alvaro’s family primarily speaks Spanish at home, but in school he has come to enjoy his English class the most. Alvaro credits former teachers Ms. Payne and senior English teacher Ms. Richardson as the people who made him fall in love with the class. “What I love most about English class is the poetry unit,” says Alvaro. “I enjoy reading it as well as writing my own.”

History is another favorite subject of Alvaro, stating that he likes studying past events and attempting to relate them to what is happening in the world currently. “To understand my future I need to understand my past first,” he explains.

Bible Club and FHLA (Future Hispanic Leaders of America) are two clubs that Alvaro belongs to. He has led much of the fundraising efforts in FHLA and is proud of having delivered three lessons in Bible Club.

In addition to clubs and academics, Alvaro loves sports and plays in several. He competes in multiple events in track including the two mile, mile, and the 800. It is soccer however that he enjoys the most, and has played since he was 8 years old.

When asked who the most influential people in his life are, he says his father and God keep him balanced and guide him through the hard times.

Alvaro plans to attend College of Southern Idaho then attend University of Idaho to pursue a degree in Business Management. He and his brother, who is studying architecture, dream of one day starting an architecture firm, where Alvaro will head the business aspect of it.

Teachers who have had him in class describe him as respectful and responsible, making it a joy to work with him. Alvaro is a complete gentleman, sometimes a rarity among high school boys. His forward thinking, dedication, and kind demeanor will carry him far in life.

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Twins, best friends, and overall outstanding students.

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win sisters Renee and Reese Peters are an extraordinary pair. Often times the relationships of twins can be troublesome in a school climate, but for the Peters this is not the case. The girls are clearly one another’s support system.

As part of the 2014 graduating class at Hansen High School, Renee and Reese say any competition they have ever felt between one another has been completely healthy. “We were separated in school once,” Renee explains, “but we hated it.”

Brad Twiss, Athletic Director and Physical Education teacher for Hansen praises the girls for being extremely coachable and accepting to feedback or criticism. “I feel athletics brings out the true color in people... sometimes positive and sometimes negative. From my perspective as their coach, it has made Reese and Renee shine bright not only as athletes but as people, creating a positive image for each of them.”

Reese and Renee’s dedication and good character are not limited to athletics. Their incredible work ethic is evident inside the classroom as well as throughout their many extracurricular activities. Their cheerful, positive manners have been very influential on the environment within Hansen Junior/Senior High School.

Reese and Renee’s long list of extracurricular activities includes FFA, several varsity sports, student body officers, and countless hours of volunteer work. Although much of this has focused on like interests of the twins, it is easy to see distinct differences among the girls. Reese enjoys spending time outdoors staying active, curling up to a good book, and sketching. Renee is very drawn to photography, which was the focus of her senior project.

When asked to look back at their high school career and discuss what accomplishments they were most proud of, it was clear what they felt most passionate about. Reese’s involvement in and leadership of Hansen’s Esteem Team is one such accomplishment. The Esteem Team’s focus

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Renee Peters

Reese Peters

School: Hansen High School Grade: Graduate of the Class of 2014 Claim to Fame: 2013-14 Student Body President, FFA, Varsity Basketball, Track, Volleyball Aspirations: Attend CSI, ISU

School: Hansen High School Grade: Graduate of the Class of 2014 Claim to Fame: Member of Hansen’s Esteem Team, FFA, 2013-14 Student Body Secretary, Varsity Basketball, Track, Volleyball Aspirations: Attend CSI

is meeting community needs, promoting healthy student interactions and positivity between student relationships, and recognizing student achievement.

Activities organized by the Esteem Team include making Christmas baskets for community members in need, Mix It Up Monday (a student icebreaker exercise), welcome letters and gifts for new students, and prizes for students with 4.0 GPAs. Renee is most proud of herself for becoming student body president. This was no small feat for Renee, as she has a tendency to be an introvert. “Reese was my only friend, I was extremely shy,” says Renee.

In order to become student body president, Renee conquered her fear of standing up in front of people, and over time became a strong leader. From this experience of working with people she has taken up an

interest in sociology and may possibly pursue a related career.

In the fall both girls are off to the local College of Southern Idaho (CSI). They are excited to start this next chapter in life. Renee plans to go on to Idaho State University after CSI. Reese is torn on whether or not to follow Renee. “Sometimes part of me wants to go away to a different school, just to see what it’s like to be apart from Renee, but the thought frightens me,” Reese explains.

Undoubtedly, whether the girls remain together or stray different directions, they are destined to succeed. The twins will be missed greatly in the tight knit school community of Hansen, but they will be an asset wherever their paths lead them. Be on the watch for what these girls accomplish in the future!

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Kids and Cash Teaching children good money habits can start early.

Story and Photos by Karleigh Deeds

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or Christmas last year, my father-in-law, a former professor of accounting, gave my children, ages 3 and 5, piggy banks. But these banks weren’t just ceramic pigs.

He fashioned them from salvaged post office boxes, stamped the kids’ names on the bottom, cut a good-size slot in the top and presented them each with a roll of quarters.

The boys were absolutely fascinated. You had to use a code to open the boxes! They spent hours plunking quarters into the slot, opening the bank and dumping out the money, just to plunk it in again. My older son practiced counting how much money he had, while my youngest son simply enjoyed counting the number of quarters. What my father-in-law gave them was more than a cool looking bank, he gave them the gift of money management. No doubt it will take more lessons from my husband and I if we truly want the boys to grow up to be responsible with their money, but what a great start.

Here are a few other tips on how to get your kids interested in money and learn some valuable lessons.*

Sign up your kids for ThreeJars.com. ThreeJars is a website that allows parents to make IOUs to kids for doing chores or paid jobs or for their allowance. The kids get to choose if they want to deposit the money in a Save jar, Spend jar or Share jar. There are several features to encourage saving, tracking progress on work done and teaching the kids how to spend their money.

Help your child open a small business. Summertime is a great

time for kids to open a lemonade stand. They teach young entrepreneurs to learn financial skills and build confidence.

Children learn how to set and achieve goals, understand profit and price, and further develop basic math skills. Other items kids could easily sell include jewelry, playdough, or have them host an art show where they can sell their artwork.

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Turn grocery shopping into a teachable moment. This is a great opportunity to teach kids about comparison shopping or even just introduce counting to younger kids. Teach children how to shop by value rather than brand.

Don’t fight about money in front of the kids. Most parents try not to argue in front of their children, but it is especially important not to have heated discussions about money in their presence. Not only does it show a non-unified parental front, it also teaches your kids that money equals stress.

Balance a checkbook. For older kids, balancing a checkbook

can still be a valuable skill. While checks are becoming more and more obsolete, it’s still important to know how much money is coming and going. If your teenager has a checking account and uses a debit card, they should be able to track their spending and saving habits.

The best way to encourage sound spending habits is to exhibit them. For big-ticket items like appliances, show your

kids how to do the research: reading articles and reviews, negotiating with salesmen on price, going to several places to see what’s available and compare values.

* I purposefully left off a direct reference to allowance. There are a lot of credible arguments for and against the practice.

I encourage you to do your research and choose what is best for you and your family.

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Harmony of the Family Bond

A large family knows the secrets of balance, respect and love.

By Lisa Jensen Photos by Summer Brander

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mall towns are classic settings for the best love stories. Small town boy meets small town girl. They fall in love and raise a close-knit family that, though they grow up and scatter like seeds in the wind, carries the bond of their family ties with them wherever they go. One such Magic Valley story actually got its start in a small town of another state. It was in Hoboken, Georgia, in 1934 that Bill Hanchey met Maida Hinson. They married and began building the family that would eventually include five boys and 11 girls.

Yes, you did the math correctly: Bill and Maida had 16 children when it was all said and done, moving the family from Georgia to San Franciso and back again before coming to settle in the Magic Valley. Through it all, they consistently doled out love, instruction and discipline while setting an example of responsibility and devotion.

Billie Park is the oldest of the children and still lives in Burley, Idaho. A warm and friendly woman, Billie was born in 1934 in San Francisco where Bill had opened an automobile shop. World War II had broken out, though, and living on the west coast with such easy access for Japan made Maida nervous. So in 1941 the Hancheys decided to sell the auto shop and take their family—which at the time included only five children—back to Georgia, where two more would join the set of offspring.

“Mom came from a family of 12,” Billie explains, “and my father’s family was almost as big, so seven kids wasn’t really a large number to either of them.”

Meanwhile, Bill’s older sister had moved to the rural area of Hunt in Jerome County, Idaho, and, having been close all of their lives, Bill soon decided it would be a good idea to join her. He brought his family to Southern Idaho in 1946, where most of them remained.

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Bill Hanchey had worked at the shipyards after returning to Georgia, but in the Magic Valley he gravitated back to the automobile business he’d enjoyed success with in California. He opened a body shop to paint and repair cars and turned it into a family business, training the boys in the trade of auto repair.

Feeding a family the size of a small army can get expensive, and Billie admits that there were some lean times. However, making sure that there was something for dinner, regardless of how plain the fare or small the portions, was important to Maida.

“Even if it was just beans and biscuits, we all had dinner together,” Billie says.

Left: Maida and 7 remaining kids after Bill’s death.

Below: Bill and Gary at the Hanchey Body Shop.

Additionally, cooking for that many people day in and day out would be one duty you’d think Maida would delegate, but that wasn’t the case.

“Mother was very frugal and wanted to keep track of her pantry and the food supplies, so she didn’t really have us help much making meals,” Billie remembers. “We were expected to clean up afterwards, but cooking was always Mother’s responsibility, and she was a wonderful cook.”

“Mother and Father were just so in love, but at the same time they taught us that you just have to work things out. Whatever comes along, you’re in it together.”

Bill did his part to make dinnertime special, too.

He turned the time after the meal into a featsof-strength competition, challenging the kids to compete against each other.

“Every night was almost an Olympic event,” recalls Billie. “Daddy and Mother both were physically active, and they’d have us kids test our strength and skills with contests like seeing who could walk the farthest on their hands or who could hold up the most weight with their hands and arms while lying on their back. We all had so much fun.”

With so many kids of all ages under one roof, Bill and Maida had a variety of different personalities to wrangle. The couple found that common ground was the trick to keeping peace in the family—or at least a semblance of it. In addition to dinnertime Olympics, all of the kids followed in their mother’s musical footsteps and enjoyed spending many hours harmonizing

and singing together.

Every Hanchey kid enjoyed all the standard Idaho pastimes, too, such as fishing, hunting and camping. Sometimes their hobbies even crossed over, complimenting one another.

“We’d go fishing on the weekends, and we’d sing all the way up and all the way back,” says Billie. “I hated to get home at the end of the trip because there was always two or three more songs I wanted to sing.”

All fathers can sympathize with the difficulty of watching daughters grow up and prepare to build lives and families of their own. Consider, though, what Bill Hanchey faced with 11 daughters.

“Dad didn’t want his girls marrying at all,” Billie says. “My younger brother got married before I did and Dad didn’t mind that. But I put off getting married until I was 23 because I knew he wouldn’t be pleased.”

The inevitable did happen, though when Billie met and fell in love with Charles Park. Charles was going to school in Pocatello, and one weekend he took Billie there to show her the apartment he’d rented for them.

“He told me he wanted to get married,” Billie remembers. “I loved that the apartment was so cute and small and empty. I ended up getting married and it did upset my dad, but people get over being mad. And my husband and I have had 57 years together. He’s become part of that larger family.”

Whether Bill would have liked to admit it or not, it was his and Maida’s example of marriage that prepared all their children, daughters as well as sons, for long-lasting unions of their own.

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“We were close because our parents integrated togetherness, spirituality, sports and music into our lives.” —Billie Park

The Hanchey family get-togethers are a big event “Mother and Father were just so in love, but at complete with a bonfire and lots of singing. the same time they taught us that you just have to “Our entire family would go camping and around work things out. Whatever comes along, you’re in it the campfire we always had to sing Grandma’s favortogether,” says Billie. ite song. Then, years later, on Grandma’s deathbed, The passing of a loved one is hard under any close to 100 of us—five generations of Hancheys— circumstances, but it was especially difficult for Maida squeezed into her little back bedroom that normally when, in November of 1969, Bill, who had always had should only have held about 10 people, and we all heart problems, passed away, leaving her to finish sang to her ‘You Are My Sunshine’ to make her feel at raising the seven children who were still at home. The peace as she left all her 16 children and hundreds of older kids helped out as much as they could. grandchildren to fend for ourselves,” says Brander.

“Dad had bought a piece of land on Kimberly Road “That’s my most cherished memory.” and it had a building on it that he rented out for storYou don’t have to be a math whiz to understand age. He and my brothers also took in iron and scrap that “hundreds of grandchildren” isn’t an exaggerametal, which was able to be sold and used for income tion. Billie herself has four daughters, 11 grandchilafter Daddy died,” Billie recalls. dren and 11 great grandchildren already, and she’s Maida Hanchey was as strong as she was talented, planning to live to be 100 years old just so she can and rose to the challenge of parenting on her own. see what the total number ends up being.

“Love your children, take care of your children. That’s Some might take a look at a family as large as the the only thing God is going to hold you accountable Hanchey’s and, jokingly or not, may say that there are for,” was Maida’s philosophy, and the principal times when it’s difficult to deal with just two or three that Billie believes got the entire family through the siblings, let alone 16! Billie admits that over the past toughest of times after Bill’s death. few years the family has started to reach a number that As more generations were added to the Hanchey is a bit unwieldy, and the individual families are doing family, they began to disperse from the Magic Valley. things on their own more and more.

Still, the family continued to get together as much as “The grandkids are scattered around, from Colopossible, passing on the strong bond of family that Bill rado to Washington,” Billie says a little wistfully. “We and Maida handed down. visit each other when we can, but about every four or “We were close because our parents integrated five years we plan one big get-together, just like the togetherness, spirituality, sports and music into our old days, and we have a bonfire and singing and the lives,” says Billie. “We would start the day off with a grandkids put on a talent show. The grandchildren are prayer and we would always have dinner together, adults now, so they’ve taken over the planning and it’s participate in and support each other in athletics— just nice to sit back and be the guests of honor and just both the boys and the girls—and we just loved singing enjoy having the whole family around you.” together. And, as big as our family has grown now, As Billie looks back over her life, it’s with a smile we’re all still very close.” and too many memories to count. The thing that is the Even to this day, when the family gets together, clearest is that her parents accomplished quite a feat in they still sing and play piano and guitar. It’s as much in creating such a large family that is so talented and lovmemory of Maida as it is a tradition. Summer Brander, ing. With Maida and Bill’s gifts still being passed on to one of Billie’s nieces and granddaughter to Maida and more generations of Hancheys, it’s obvious that this Bill, remembers learning Maida’s favorite song, “You love story is far from over and has many more chapAre My Sunshine,” early on. ters still being written.

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Bringing Care Home Illness, injury and isolation are easier to deal with when you have a helping hand.

Story and Photo by Karleigh Deeds

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arlier this year I lost my dad to medications organized and adminiscancer. He was only 62 years tered on time. They’ll often do light old and just a few months before housekeeping, grocery shopping, his passing, he was doing remarkand even communication upkeep ably well. My family knew his (think: answering emails, posting diagnosis was terminal, but we status updates on Facebook, writing didn’t know how quickly he could thank you cards, etc.) Home care go from enjoying Christmas mornprofessionals act as family if famiing surrounded by his kids and ly isn’t available or just needs a grandkids, to never coming down break. the stairs again. My role as a daughter turned upsidedown as I found myself being the caretaker Medical conditions are a typical and not the one being taken care of. My brothers, mother reason to bring in a home health professional. If a patient and I ran about in a steady frenzy trying to keep my dad needs rehabilitation or if it’s too difficult for them to go to the comfortable while still caring for our own families and lives. doctor, the medical care comes to them. However, home care Hospice arrived a week before Dad passed and while their is a service that can be brought in at any time in an individucare and comfort was remarkable, I wish we would have al’s life. known to bring them or another home care service in earlier.

An ideal time to call in outside help is when a loved one It wasn’t until the dust settled that I realized my whole family passes and the surviving spouse is left to deal with an empty had been running on fumes while help was just a simple home and a new way of living. Even if Mom or Dad can still phone call away. do everything on their own, they may just want someone to When most people think of a nurse or outside help coming play cards with, watch TV or have someone take them to the in, they think of hospice and dying. Truth is, there are A LOT hairdresser. And let’s face it, family isn’t always available, but of services out there to help families and they aren’t just for home care is. the terminal. Often times, people who are aging at home just Home care professionals by nature are extremely need a companion and luckily there are companies out there giving. They aren’t in this profession to make a bunch of that do just that. money, they genuinely care about their charge. They typically form tight bonds with the people they look after and can help that person feel connected to the outside world. And while it Not all home care is hospice care, though the two can may be difficult for families to relinquish some of their easily be confused. There are several different reasons, responsibilities, once they do, they often feel relieved and more engaged with the person they’ve hired help for. conditions and needs to bring in outside help.

When to Bring in Help

What Is Home Care?

If you’ve found yourself in the position of needing to hire a home care agency there are things you should consider before bringing a caregiver into your home. Ask your, or the patient’s, doctor if they have a few recommendations, then interview them. Many agencies assign a primary caregiver and a back-up caregiver. You’ll want to make sure the patient and your family are compatible with these people. ThoroughHospice care is palliative by nature. The illness, however, ly vet the agencies’ reputation, licensing, and accreditation.

Regardless of the type of care you and your family may has progressed to a point where curative treatment is no longer desired or beneficial. Hospice care supports the patient require, be sure you’re comfortable with your caregiver. Most and their families while focusing on relieving symptoms and agencies are reputable and the people they hire are typically offering comfort from pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, very compassionate and deliberately chose the profession nausea, anxiety, insomnia, constipation, etc. they are in. Either way, once help arrives, it’s there for But several home care agencies offer additional services everyone in the family.

Some home care is known as palliative care which focuses on relieving symptoms that are related to chronic illnesses, such as cancer, cardiac disease, respiratory disease, kidney failure, Alzheimer’s and other dementias, AIDS, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and other neurological diseases.

Palliative care can be used at any stage of illness—not just the advanced stages.

like companion care, that goes above and beyond keeping 74 | Mag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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Committed to

Quality

Steven S. Miller Construction has the knowledge and patience to build you a dream home.

By Joseph Talbot Photos by Summer Brander

S

teven S. Miller Construction located in Twin Falls builds beautiful homes. It’s a simple statement, but true. Just visit their website at stevensmillerhomes.com and you will see for yourself, the beauty and precision included with every project. With over 20 years of experience in the construction industry Steve Miller is prepared with the knowledge to handle any request. That’s why any prospective homebuyer wandering the desert of unqualified contractors will find Steven S. Miller Construction to be a refreshing oasis of honesty and excellence.

The process of building a new home can be frustrating and long, especially if the contractor is difficult to work with. Nightmare stories abound, recently becoming the focal point of popular reality shows on cable television. As entertaining as it might be to watch a professional go through someone else’s house and point out where the contractor cut corners and skipped vital steps in the construction process, it’s not something that anyone wants to go through first hand. Mistakes and shortcuts end up costing the homeowner tens of thousands of dollars in repair bills and additional months of inconvenience. With a Steve Miller home your chances of being the star of one of these shows is exactly nil.

First of all, Miller believes in involving the customer in the construction of their dream home, from start to finish. He personally works with each customer to ensure that their needs are met throughout the process, and his website includes a convenient step-by-step guide that the customer can use to educate themselves about home construction. Any contractor can use the “don’t worry about it, we’ll handle everything”

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H Home Improvement approach to keep the customer away until the paint has dried and the bill is paid. Steven S. Miller Construction chooses to teach their customers about the process so they know what to expect. They even provide a three year warranty on their homes that can be viewed before construction begins. This dedication to transparency is what sets Miller apart from other contractors, along with his ability to suit the individual needs of his customers.

A crucial point of construction in any home is the installation of electrical devices and fixtures. It can be aggravating to move into a new home, only to realize that your flat screen TV won’t fit where you want it, or that extra wiring is needed for your surround sound system.

The fix for this usually involves thumbtacks, tape, and the constant eyesore of cables running around your new walls. With a Steve Miller home the installation of the electrical wiring and fixtures is done only after the customer has walked through and discussed their needs with the electrician. It’s a vital step that ensures the customer’s new home is move-in ready upon completion.

Walk into one of the many cookie cutter type construction companies and they will boast about their wide assortment of floor plans, usually three or four. It’s an approach shared by most large corporations to save costs, and the resulting choices (or lack thereof) dot the landscape in subdivisions and housing developments across the country. A Steve Miller home is something else altogether. It’s designed with each customer’s unique needs, desires, and budget in mind in order to create the sanctuary of their dreams. It’s the kind of home that turns heads.

ning to end. From providing guidance in choosing the floor plan to the final walk through to ensure everything is how the customer dreamed it would be, Miller believes in providing a superior product with superior service. It’s the practice of this belief that sets his homes apart from the mass produced dwellings of suburbia.

Steven S. Miller Construction involves the customer in the process of building their dream home from begin-

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Constructing a Future Sometimes you choose to change your home, sometimes the choice is made for you.

By Joseph Talbot

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house is a very important investment to most people. Make it a home, and the personal value goes way up. But how do you go about making a house a home? How do you put your own signature on it? One way to do this is to renovate your home, adding a new patio here, an updated kitchen there. If you like your property but you don’t like your house, it might be time to completely demolish the place and do a complete rebuild. Sometimes you have to make changes due to damage either by natural disaster or just old age.

Houses require care that can come in the form a new roof, refreshed concrete, updated landscaping, new cabinets, updated hardware or any number of things. For most of us the task of updating or remodeling a home or tackling these tasks is beyond our abilities. The quasi-celebrity home builders on cable TV make the process look so easy that it may be tempting to dive in without professional help. It’s important to know your limits—on time, ability, skill, and finances. Still, there are some things that can be done easily without calling the pros.

Simple tasks like painting can be very rewarding to a homeowner. However, getting too ambitious without the proper training can be dangerous like dealing with natural gas or electrical lines.Unless you are certified in those areas, its best to call a professional.

Construction crews are keeping busy these days since homebuilding and remodeling are on the rise once again. But for some residents of the Magic Valley, a renovation wasn’t on their mind until it was forced upon them. Disasters and misfortune are sneaky, but luckily for these folks, everyone emerged unscathed.

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“The remodeling process cost over $700,000.

That’s a lot of money.”

—Jose Perez, Owner Garibaldi’s Mexican Restaurant

Overcoming Disaster House fires are devastating events when they occur.

Even if part of the structure is saved the process for rebuilding can be long and arduous, and the most well kept houses can suffer their effects as well as any other.

Take Steve and Peggy Bean for example. In 2010, their family room caught fire and was destroyed. Fortunately for them, a quick response from the fire department saved the rest of their house, but the damage was still severe. After speaking with their insurance adjuster they were shown a list of remodeling companies and chose Summit Restoration. Within 45 minutes there was a representative on site helping them determine how best to approach the remodel.

Steve and Peggy’s home was built in 1979, and up until 2010 went largely unscathed. Everything seemed well put together, and there was no reason to expect a fire. However, some time before a contractor had blown insulation into their attic and had neglected to protect the chimney. The heated steel pipe eventually caused the insulation to combust, resulting in the fire that wiped out a good portion of their home.

They were fortunate, since all their irreplaceable items like family photos and heirlooms were in another room and the fire was quickly extinguished. Even still, Peggy feels lucky that the fire happened when it did and not while they were sleeping, that nobody was hurt, and that they had the insurance to cover the cost of rebuilding.

Even though insurance would have paid for other accommodations, the Beans chose to stay close at hand in their fifth wheel. The restoration crew worked diligently on their home, giving the Beans daily updates. “They really made a bad situation into a good one, and they made it look better than before,” says Peggy. “It looked really nice.” It may not have been the time or the method with which they had hoped to remodel the house, but the results were enough to impress upon them the importance of keeping the insurance payment current, and of knowing what your policy covers and doesn’t cover.

A Business In Ruins Of course, not all fires are the result of chimneys and insulation. On August 25, 2013 Garibaldi’s Mexican Restaurant in Twin Falls was hit by lightning and caught on fire. The fire started near the bar and even though it was quickly spotted and extinguished, the damage was extensive enough to destroy the interior of the restaurant. “The smoke got into everything, even the tables were ruined,” explains owner, Jose Perez.

He opened the Mexican restaurant in 1994 and has since opened locations in Buhl, Jerome, and a smaller

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location in the Magic Valley Mall. The flagship location on Filer Avenue in Twin Falls was the first to suffer such a loss, and it brought home to Perez the true value of insurance.

“The remodeling process cost over $700,000.

That’s a lot of money,” explains Perez. Everything needed to be replaced. “The insurance paid for salaries of some of my employees. [We had to] put in a new kitchen, new trusses in the roof, new paint, new stucco; everything is new.”

Perez talks about his new restaurant with pride, even though the four months of lost profit were a huge burden. Most businesses, and especially restaurants, have a very narrow profit margin, and emergencies like this one are often fatal to the businesses who go through them.

Having a plan and the safety net of insurance helps ensure that the business survives the heat of rebuilding from scratch.

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These days Garibaldi’s is once again a popular destination for Twin Falls residents. A mariachi tune plays in the background as guests are seated at new tables under impressive craftsmanship and the aroma of Garibaldi’s special house salsa. Were it not for the insurance they would most likely have gone under beneath the financial weight of the disaster.

So when the time comes for that long awaited remodel, or when fire or water damage strike

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your home, remember that in the long run you will spend less money, less energy, and less emotional capital by calling a professional and getting the job done right the first time. And no matter how you go about it, the materials, the time, and the permits, all cost money. Unless your money tree in the backyard escapes the blaze you will find yourself in need more than your crispy assets can provide. So be smart and keep those insurance payments current, because once the embers cool and the hoses are reeled in, that’s when the real fire starts.

Whether you are looking to build your dream home from the ground up or put in that new kitchen you’ve always wanted, we are here to help you.

We pride ourselves in making sure that our work is unique, one of a kind, and fits the needs and wants of your lifestyle!

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Building Nomenclature If you’re thinking of changing your property start by using the correct words to describe your project to your contractor. It can be a little bit confusing at first, but here’s a quick guide to knowing exactly what your project encompasses.

Remodel - to change the structure, shape, or appearance of (something) Renovation - to make changes and repairs to (an old house, building, room, etc.) so that it is back in good condition New-Build - to build (something) from scratch Re-build - build (something) again after it has been damaged or destroyed

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208-410-1003 www.premierhomesidaho.com M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 81

Details Make the Difference

Adding a little character to your home isn’t as difficult as you might think.

Story and Photos by Lisa Jensen

I

t’s hard to miss the character of the architecture or the charming little details that are typical of pre-World War II homes. Those delightful features are signs of quality craftsmanship as well as the thoughtfulness that went into the homes’ design. Unfortunately, throughout the 1950s and beyond, mass-production of cookiecutter-style housing lowered the bar for architectural design and construction.

If finances are a concern, you might think custom details such as these would break any typical budget, but woodworking craftsman Stuart Sandall says that’s not the case.

Though the finer points of home design seem to have gotten lost over the years, they’re elements that are essential for breaking out of the mold to give your home personality. Think about crown molding, a built-in spice rack, a convenient little cubby for frequently used items, stonework counters or a handy alcove in the corner of your bathroom with shelves to keep extra towels at the ready. All of these features enhance the character of your home, and some even add functionality. Vintage details such as stressed wood or even a bit of simple yet decorative scrollwork on cabinetry and other wood surfaces are other ways to build your home’s personality.

Custom builders are also experts at using the areas with which you have to work, finding solutions to storage and space problems that you wouldn’t have thought possible. Take those unavoidable but space-wasting

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“First of all, if you go to a pre-fab or box-store looking for custom pieces at a bargain, you probably won’t find exactly what you’re looking for because they mass-produce their stock,” Sandall explains. “And, if you take the time to call around, you’ll find that most custom craftsmen can build many things at costs comparable to the box-stores, and you’re more likely to be happy with the results.”

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corners, for example. You might not consider them the solution to your problem, but just install a triangular closet or pantry or even build in a series of corner drawers and that angular, oddly shaped area becomes usable space.

There are compromises you can make, too, that provide the unique look you want without the big-ticket price tag. Opt for inexpensive carved brackets to adorn doorways instead of covering every linear-foot with pricey crown molding. Get the look of marble or granite counter tops at a fraction of the cost by going with decorative concrete instead of actual stone. You can even DIY, and take on some of the detail work yourself.

Embellish a doorway using stencils and paint, or make inexpensive hollow-core interior doors look like natural wood with speciallydesigned paint brushes and sponges.

Whether you’re building new or remodeling, take a look around and compile a wish list of features you’d find useful or would just like included in the design. Get creative and don’t leave anything out because you think it might be too expensive or you haven’t seen it in other homes. Talk to a builder or designer about the details and features that would make a house your dream home. You might be surprised how doable and even affordable your wish list is and, once it’s complete, you’ll see that those elements are the very details that make the difference.

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PremierWoodworkingOnline.com M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 83

A Whole Lotta Buildin’ Goin’ On Twin Falls is expanding and everyone is benefiting.

By Lisa Jensen Photos by Summer Brander

W

ith its prime location right in the heart of Southern Idaho, Twin Falls has always been a nice place to visit and a convenient mid-way stopping point when you’re travelling the 400-odd miles across the southern part of the state.

Although it may have once been the quintessential Idaho small town, Twin Falls has quietly been growing over the last few years, even in spite of the economic recession that bordered on depression in the rest of the country.

Though it’s part of the Magic Valley, you can’t credit magic for Twin Falls’ recent boom. Melinda Anderson, Executive Director for the Twin Falls Urban Renewal Agency says that the city’s growth and success are due to the effort and cooperation of the entire community.

“It’s a team sport,” Anderson says. “The city, the school district, CSI, the Chamber of Commerce, private developers, private business—everyone has a part in making this happen.”

Anderson and the “team” have been working economic development in Twin Falls for a long time. A lot has been put into improving infrastructure to provide the best place possible for residents to live and for businesses to operate in. At the foundation of their goal, the

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Urban Renewal Agency essentially has two missions: job creation and downtown revitalization. As Anderson points out, the two aren’t really separate issues.

“Downtown revitalization is important to economic development not just to have a revitalized downtown, which everyone wants,” she explains. “It also helps employers whether they’re here now or are looking to come in. It’s easier for them to find employees to come work for them if there’s a town or a city or a community that is vital and successful. A downtown that’s vital and successful is the heart and soul of any community.”

The result of focusing on downtown revitalization and job creation is that the two issues end up feeding each other, and the success of both encourages the community as a whole to grow. The first step has to be taken somewhere, however. A community can’t just hold positive thoughts for job creation and put revitalization and improvements on the back burner. The ideal example is the Chobani yogurt plant.

“About three years ago the Urban Renewal Agency made a decision to put in a new water line out

east because the supply wasn’t sufficient to put up anything larger than a 30,000 square foot building,” says Anderson. “We knew we would have a tough time marketing that to bring businesses in.”

“Because they’re a yogurt producer, they use one of the largest raw ingredients that we have, which is milk, so their investment creates an additional billion-dollar regional impact every single year. They have about 1,000 jobs out there and for every job [at Chobani] there are another 3.6 jobs created around the region,” Anderson says.

Taking that step paid off almost immediately. The project was only half Melinda Anderson, the Executive completed when Chobani started Director for the Twin Falls The Chobani chapter is hardly the enseriously looking at Twin Falls as the Urban Renewal Agency tire story of the Twin Falls renaissance. In location for their new plant … and the fact, it was just the beginning. Anderson rest is history. The city and the Urban calls it the gift that keeps giving. Because of Chobani coming Renewal Agency worked hard to stay ahead of Chobani’s in, Twin Falls is officially on the map of great places for busiconstruction, putting in water and sewer and making imnesses.

It’s an important distinction that has already resulted provements to the roads and the waste water treatment plant. in Clif Bar, the energy bar company, choosing Twin Falls as It was a huge effort, but it was worth it in the end. the location for their new bakery. According to Anderson, it was the full package that the city offered when it came to convincing Clif Bar they’d found the perfect place to build.

“We set up several meetings with Clif Bar, put together a package letting them know what we have to offer here, the community, the workforce, what it’s like here to operate a business. We outlined natural resources like the canyon, the mountains and rivers, a lot of things to help them understand what Twin Falls is like.”

And like Chobani before them, the Clif Bar people fell under the Magic Valley’s spell, choosing a site immediately south of the yogurt plant and signing a development agreement just a few short months after first visiting the area.

Another aspect that certainly helped seal the deal is that Twin Falls’ established focus areas align remarkably with Clif Bar’s goals.

“Cliff Bar has these ‘Five Aspirations’ on their website,” Anderson says. “And the city had just completed our strategic plan for 2030, establishing seven focus areas—and the two

A downtown that’s vital and successful is the heart and soul of any community.

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really meshed. That was a big part of how Gary Erickson and his wife made their decision to build here.

They just felt like this was the place for them.”

Among the philosophies shared between Twin Falls and Clif Bar is sustaining a healthy community, building a prosperous community, creating a secure yet accessible community and being environmentally conscious. Balancing these areas will ensure that Twin Falls continues to be a great place for residents and businesses alike.

All the while, the city and the Urban Renewal Agency continues to keep local businesses in mind, working with them to make sure they have what they need to be successful. In the fall of 2013, an assessment commissioned by the Agency was completed, revealing a number of issues in Historic Old Towne Twin Falls.

“Some things are literally falling apart and, in general, it’s not big enough for today’s uses,” Anderson says, summing up the assessment’s bottom line.

“We’re going to do a lot of water and sewer projects to make sure we have the capacity we need and to fix some of those old, crumbling lines. In addition, we’re really going to look at freshening up our main avenue, which hasn’t had an overhaul since the 70s. We’re just now getting started with that public process of finding out what the stakeholders think, what’s important for

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Glanbia Foods chose to build a 50,000 sf building in Twin Falls’ Historic Old Towne which aesthetically fits in with the rest of the district.

Twin Falls Municipal Band Shell, the oldest bandshell West of the Mississippi, is where Clif Bar announced the opening of their new production facility.

them. We’re undertaking a multi-year project fixing all the infrastructure in Old Towne.”

Though the infrastructure project is just getting underway, the Urban Renewal Agency has been supporting and facilitating renovations in Historic Old Towne Twin Falls for years. In 2011, the Agency offered matching grants to help with facade improvements. The model case in point is the transformation, inside and out, of the old Paris department store building.

“Ken Fitzgerald has been working on renovating the old Paris building ever since he bought it a couple of years ago,” Anderson relates. “The matching grant helped freshen the exterior, but Ken has remodeled the interior into four street-level units: one is a boutique

and two are going to be restaurants. I think there’s a hair salon upstairs and one of the interior units is an office for another business Ken has. He did a beautiful job with the renovation. It’s very nice and supplies space for various service-type businesses downtown.”

Just as taking the step to increase the water supply to the east produced positive effects before the project was complete, infrastructure improvements in Old Towne have already paid dividends through the cheese producer Glanbia Foods. Although Twin Falls has been home to Glanbia for 22 years, the company was looking at the Canyon Rim, where much of the new construction is going on, for the location of their new U.S. headquarters and research and development center. In the end, though, Glanbia head Jeff Williams picked a prime location in Old Towne.

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With the growth in the private sector, new houses are popping up.

“We had brought together a team of a developer, an architect and an engineering firm that Glanbia was comfortable with and that, along with the infrastructure we put in for them, convinced them that the downtown area of Historic Old Towne was the right place,” Anderson says.

Glanbia has since built a 50,000 square foot campus on a half block at the corner of 4th Avenue South and Shoshone Street. Anderson— and likely much of the community—is pleased that the brand-new three story brick structure fits in with the Old Towne neighborhood. Along with Saint Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center, Glanbia has helped re-energize the area, bringing over 250 people to Old Towne to work and triggering the start-up of about 30 new businesses to provide products and services for that workforce.

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Melinda Anderson likens the investment businesses big and small make in Twin Falls to tumbling dominoes. Businesses may require a little incentive in the beginning by way of infrastructure improvements, but the benefits they bring to the table once they’re up and running more than compensate for the city’s initial investment.

“As you know, in Idaho, all that infrastructure improvement is paid for with property tax dollars,” explains Anderson. “So, once these businesses move in, their property taxes benefit

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the community and pay for infrastructure, too.

And their success here will signal to other companies that Twin Falls is a great place to do business, and it just keeps progressing from there, like a domino effect.”

The fact that Twin Falls is a great place to live and do business is the bottom line. The day in October, 2013, when Clif Bar signed the development agreement is perhaps the best illustration of that reality. As Anderson describes it, it was a perfect Idaho fall day. The weather was beautiful, the sun was shining, the trees were decked out in all their golden and brown Idaho autumn splendor. The group met at the band shell in the city park—the oldest band shell, by the way, this side of the Mississippi.

Gary Erickson, Clif Bar’s CEO, took a look around and knew he’d made the right choice.

“He said, ‘Being in this setting right now is the reason we want to be here. We want to be in this environment,’” Anderson remembers.

Anyone who lives in Twin Falls knows about all the little treasures hidden away in this particular part of the Gem State: the canyon, Shoshone Falls, the skiing, fishing, camping and numerous other outdoor sports that exemplify life in Southern Idaho. It’s an easy-sell when businesses come looking for a place to build and set up shop.

“We have this amazing community in an amazing state in an amazing region of the Magic Valley,” says Anderson. “I’m so proud to be part of this whole effort, to have just one small part of it. I feel so blessed by it.”

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Building a Reputation

Quality work, a family atmosphere, and great service are all part of the experience at Quality Truss & Lumber.

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By Joseph Talbot Photos Summer Brander

uality isn’t just in the name of the company, it’s a value expressed in everything done at Quality Truss & Lumber. Blending the warmth and service of a hometown hardware store with the selection of a big box chain, the family owners have managed to create an all-purpose remodeling and construction company that does everything from simple projects to ground-up construction.

If you have a project that you’ve been wanting to finish forever but don’t know where to start, the experts at Quality Truss & Lumber can definitely help. The store’s employees possess over 200 years of combined experience in home repairs and construction that assist them in designing and creating whatever project their clients are in need of.“ Our emphasis is on helping people build their first home or dream home, create a new shop, remodel their kitchen, add on a garage or just make their home more energy efficient with new windows and doors. We can assist with finding the right contractor to do the job,” says owner, Jerre Hills.

This isn’t your typical hardware store. Yes, they have friendly, helpful staff ready to help you find whatever tool or product you’ll need for your project. But they also have elk and moose mounts staring down from a wall of pine decorated with wildlife paintings. The space is as inviting as any living room, but sorry, the family heirlooms are not for sale.

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A growing clientele and strong foundation in homebuilding and remodeling are keeping Jerre and his son K.C. well-poised to aid the Magic Valley in the current economy. After one of their best years ever in 2013, Quality Truss & Lumber is an excellent example of how American small businesses have survived the recent recession and are once again the backbone of a stable local economy. Part of the reason for Quality Truss & Lumber’s success is the attention to detail in their work. They genuinely care about how their customers’ needs are met, which is reflected in the facility itself.

Take a look around the lumber yard in Filer and you will see carefully stacked and covered wood, ordered and organized projects ready for shipment, as well as several handsome buildings that house their operations, including a custom truss plant.

Driving by the facility on Highway 30 at the western edge of the city of Filer you won’t see a giant sign or miles of parking. No hotdog stands or brightly colored “SALE” signs either. Instead what you find as you pull into the driveway is simple elegance and convenient service that will leave you feeling less like a part of the herd and more like a part of the family.

With the addition of a new modern door shop, Quality Truss & Lumber can design and create attractive entryways made right here in the Magic Valley. Most doors come from far away factories where options are limited and economy trumps quality. With their new addition Quality Truss & Lumber can bypass this cookie-cutter approach and create unique and stunning doorways that are sure to add a special touch to any home.

The truss system gives a home its character. At Quality Truss & Lumber, trusses are custom designed and built to meet their client’s needs. They offer top of the line products with their work, including custom metalwork for steel buildings and millwork for beautiful interiors. From barns and sheds to single family homes and commercial buildings, Quality Truss & Lumber truly does it all.

208.326.3131 www.qualitytrussandlumber.net

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’ n i p p i r T y a D You don’t have to travel far to discover the magic of the Magic Valley.

Photos by Summer Brander

By Amber Daley

S

aturday, September 29th is National Public Lands Day—a great excuse to enjoy a fee-free visit to a nearby national park. But there’s no need to wait that long to plan an exciting day trip this summer. For those wanting to stay close to home, we recommend five adventures suitable for adults and kids alike, with destinations just miles from Twin Falls.

Adventure 1: Bare Bones Some might be surprised to learn that there are fossils of the mastodon and sabertooth cat in Idaho—and they are right in our own backyard. At Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument you’ll find over 200 different species of fossil plants and animals.

In fact, over 3,000 new fossil fragments are found each year.

Special this summer: To celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2014, Hagerman Fossil Beds is holding 25 special events throughout the year. Exact dates are dependent on weather, so call the monument for current information.

When you go: Stop at the visitor’s center to see the fossils up close and pick up a map. Be sure to continue on to the monument itself, where you’ll find incredible views and an overlook of the Oregon Trail (you can still see the ruts caused by wagon wheels as oxen dragged them up the bluffs). Bring sunscreen, an extra layer of clothing (it can get windy), and ample water and snacks, as there are no concessions available.

Summer hours: The visitor’s center is open every day until September 3rd from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The road leading to the monument is open 24 hours a day, but access to the monument closes at dusk.

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Photos Courtesy of The Hagerman Fossil Beds NM Minidoka National Historic Site

The drive: 38.7 miles (about 48 minutes) Location: 221 N. State St. Hagerman, ID Contact: (208) 933-4100 www.nps.gov/hafo

Photos Courtesy of The National Park Services

Adventure 2: Sand and Stars

For hiking, fishing, and stargazing, pack the cooler and head to Bruneau Dunes State Park. Here, not only can you climb the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America, but you can surf down it as well (the park rents sand boards and snow sleds for use during cooler seasons). If you prefer to stay on lower ground, several miles of hiking and equestrian trails are available for exploring. Sportsmen will also enjoy fishing for large mouth bass and bluegill in the park during spring and fall. For those feeling even more adventurous, head to Bruneau Canyon, located about 25 miles from the park.

Special this summer: Until mid-October, the observatory opens for solar viewings and star-viewing programs on Friday and Saturday evenings. Stargazers are also invited to attend day two of the Boise Astronomical Society’s annual Star Party, which takes place September 20th. Campgrounds (some with toilets and shower facilities) are available for those who wish to stay the night (call the park to make reservations).

When you go: Don’t forget sunscreen, swimwear, and insect repellant. If you plan to climb the dunes, bring sturdy footwear (such as hiking boots) and try to hike during the cooler hours of the morning or evening so as to prevent overheating. During warmer months, signs warning of swimmer’s itch may be posted. So try to avoid aquatic vegetation when possible, and shower or brush off with a towel after swimming. Also, if attending the Star Party, be prepared to navigate in the dark without flashlights (only red bulbs are allowed) and keep children at arms length at all times.

Summer hours: Until mid-October, the visitor’s center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The observatory’s solar viewings are held at around 6:30 each Friday and Saturday evening, and at about a half hour after sunset the star-viewing program begins.

(Dates and times are subject to change, however, so call the park to confirm.)

The drive: 86 miles (about 1 hour and 41 minutes) Location: 27608 Sand Dunes Rd. Mountain Home, ID Contact: (208) 366-7919 or bru@idpr.idaho.gov http://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/bruenau-dunes

Photos Courtesy of Wallace Keck

Adventure 3: On the Rocks There is something for just about everyone at City of Rocks National Reserve: bird watching, hiking, and, of course, rock climbing and bouldering. (The park even offers visitors a supervised introduction to the sport via a climbing experience program.) If belaying from rocks isn’t your cup of tea, however, the geological features within the historic park nonetheless provide breathtaking views. If bringing the kids, pick up a map at the visitor’s center and retrace the California trail or take the scenic drive along the 24-mile long car tour.

Special this summer: This year, the reserve will hold birding events as well as a day camp for kids. Also, the Idaho Mountain Festival, a four-day climbing and trail running event, will take place September 25th through the 28th.

When you go: Dogs must be kept on-leash at all times. Be sure to bring food, water, sunscreen, insect repellant, extra layers of clothing, and other supplies necessary for staying overnight. Standard campsites are available, and there is limited space for full RV units.

Summer hours: The visitor center will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., including holidays. The national reserve is available for year-round use.

The drive: 82.8 miles (about 1 hour and 51 minutes) Location: 3035 S. Elba-Almo Rd. Almo, ID Contact: (208) 824-5901 www.nps.gov/ciro/ M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 93

Adventure 4: Test the Waters Whatever the weather, few activities are as refreshing as a summer swim or a soak under the stars. Miracle Hot Springs, located in nearby Buhl, offers four outdoor, general admission pools, six VIP pools and 15 private hot pools.

Certified massage therapists are even available (with reservations) to provide deep tissue, hot stone, and Swedish massages. Guests can also rent intimate dome structures for overnight stays and a larger dome is available for special events.

When you go: Bring swimwear, towels, shoes, and a change of clothes.

Summer hours: The springs are open from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday and are closed Sundays.

The drive: 27.3 miles (about 36 minutes) Location: 19073B Hwy 30 Buhl, ID Contact: (208) 543-6002 www.mhsprings.com

Photos Courtesy of Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

Adventure 5: To the Moon and Back At over 1,100 square miles in size (roughly as big as Rhode Island), Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve should be on every Idahoan’s must-see list. Its varied landscape makes this park a destination like no other, as it is home to spectacular volcanic rock formations, archaeological sites, and historic structures.

What’s special this summer: Every Saturday, the park will host a special program or themed hike (wildflower walk, full moon hike, etc.), so check the website for up-to-date event information. This year is also the 50-year anniversary of the Wilderness Act. Celebrate the occasion by attending the Run for Wilderness event on September 27th. The Idaho Falls Astronomical Society will also hold a star party in late September.

When you go: Be prepared for the weather to change quickly. Consider calling ahead to find out about current conditions. Bring plenty of water, food, sunscreen, and extra layers of clothing, especially if you plan on exploring. Also, permits are required before entering any cave on National Park Service Lands. These can be obtained at the entrance station or visitor’s center.

Summer hours: The park and visitor’s center are open year round and closed during federal holidays that take place in the winter.

The drive: 94.2 miles (about 1 hour and 45 minutes) Location: 18 miles west of Arco on Highway 20/26/93, Arco, ID Contact: (208) 527-1335 www.nps.gov/crmo/ 94 | Mag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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4PM (16:00) 12PM (12:00) M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 95

Are You Covered? renewal may be less of a hassle. In the case of auto insurance be aware that some companies may rate your policies according to whether or not you’re switching over from what they consider a high-risk company. If in doubt, ask.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Insurance: love it or hate it,

By Amber Daley you likely need it.

I

f you’re like most Americans, you probably consider carrying insurance to be a necessary evil.

In fact, 60 percent of those interviewed in the 2010 Bloomberg National Poll had a negative opinion of insurance companies. Love it or hate it, though, insurance is usually required by law—at least when it comes to obtaining auto and health policies. And even in the case of homeowners (also referred to as fire) and flood insurance, lenders usually require coverage.

When executed properly, however, insurance policies are anything but evil. Appropriate coverage can mean the difference between experiencing a minor crisis and a major catastrophe. For many, the problem lies in discussing coverage limits and deductibles with an insurance agent or adjuster. These conversations may feel like trying to understand a foreign language—while underwater.

Whether you’re looking to start a new policy, happy with your current company, or filing a claim, here are some tips for making the most of—and understanding—your insurance policies.

Shop around Comparison shopping shouldn’t just be reserved for buying electronics. It’s usually best to get more than one quote; just remember to have each agent provide an estimate for the same coverage limits. Also, if you’re looking to change providers, doing so upon

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If you are unsure about the meaning of certain terms, don’t be embarrassed.

Insurance jargon can be highly confusing, even for the experts. It’s better to ask questions early on, rather than after it’s too late to make adjustments—when you need to file a claim.

Besides, that’s exactly why your agent is there to help.

He or she should also be willing to provide an annual review of your policies and identify where there may be gaps in coverage.

Insure at the proper limits Obtaining coverage limits that are too high may mean that you pay higher premiums than necessary.

Too low and you risk being underinsured and exposed to further risk from potential lawsuits and legal fees.

Specifically, when it comes to car insurance, it’s wise to consider whether or not Idaho’s required state minimum coverage is sufficient. A licensed insurance agent can help talk you through the decisionmaking process.

Stay calm during emergencies If you’ve experienced any kind of disaster, whether it was a car collision or you arrived home to a flooded basement, you know that panicking is never wise. Maintaining a clear head is necessary for making fast decisions and can help prevent oversights, especially in the case of an automobile accident. The priority should always be to ensure the safety of those involved, especially if there are injuries. Don’t move anyone who may be physically hurt, and instead call for help immediately. As difficult as it may be, it’s crucial to remember that damage to property can usually be repaired, stolen goods can often be replaced, and things really are just that—things.

I Insurance / Kidney Physician Joyce Loos CIC – Principle

AIM Insurance Solutions

131 Gooding Street West Twin Falls, Idaho 83301

Keep it legal Insurance fraud is a crime and raises premiums for everyone. Each state’s Department of Insurance is in place to prevent questionable activity and is prepared to exact hefty fines, should an insured or an offending company be found fraudulent. To be safe, be honest and document everything.

Unless it’s alien abduction insurance (yes, that’s actually a thing), insurance coverage can be your best defense against catastrophic events.

When you understand your policies, know your coverage limits, and have a good relationship with your insurance agent, not only are you better prepared in the event of a crisis, you’ll have peace of mind, too.

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208.733.0422 magicvalleykidney.com M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 97

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Internet Service

*Speeds for upload and download may vary and are not guaranteed. Equipment rental fees apply at $6.50 per month for internet service. 15 Mbps service not available everywhere. Visit digis.net for complete details. Prices shown do not include applicable taxes. Certain restrictions apply. Call for details, availability, minimum system requirements, pricing and service. Copyright Š 2014 Digis. All rights reserved.

M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e

2014 | 99

A look at how this World War II Internment Camp impacted our community and continually educates us on the importance of upholding civil liberties.

Story and Photos by Adrea Storey

D

uring World War II, people of Japanese ancestry living in America found their worlds turned upside down due to hysteria caused by Imperial Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor. The U.S. Government, fearing an attack on the mainland, responded by interning nearly 120,000 Japanese Americans, 62 percent of them American citizens.

With the signing of Executive Order 9066 on February 19, 1942 President Franklin D. Roosevelt authorized the Secretary of War to designate certain areas of the country as military zones. The order stated that “any or all persons may be excluded” from the military zone or “Exclusion Area”. The Exclusion Area was the entire West Coast including much of Oregon, Washington, all of California, and even part of Arizona. Using the power of this EO, no one of Japanese ancestry, regardless of whether they had been born in the United States was allowed to stay in this zone, with the exception of those interned in camps.

Camps varied in structure and severity. Individuals were sent to stricter camps like Isolation Centers if they were thought to pose a more significant security threat. Facilities were sometimes run by the military, the best known of these being the Wartime Civil Control Administration (WCCA) Assembly Centers.

By June of 1942, Japanese and Japanese Americans living in the Exclusion Area, had been uprooted from their communities, with one allowed suitcase per person, and sent to live in these temporary centers.

Often times Assembly Centers were hastily converted racetracks or fairgrounds.

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By November of that year all had been transferred to the 10 long-term relocation centers. War Relocation Authority (WRA) Relocation Centers, informally known as internment camps, were built and run by civilians.

One of these 10 WRA Relocation Centers opened on August 10th of 1942 near Hunt, Idaho (east of Jerome). To avoid confusion with a camp in Jerome, Arkansas, Minidoka Relocation Center was named after the Minidoka Irrigation Project rather than the county of Jerome in which it operated.

Those incarcerated at Minidoka primarily came from Seattle and Bainbridge Island. Accustomed to the lush green landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, the dry windswept deserts of Southern Idaho cruelly greeted them upon arrival.

With a peak population of nearly 10,000, Minidoka operated as a city. During its time of operation, it could have been considered Idaho’s 7th largest city. Situated over 33,000 acres, The Center was made up of 35 blocks containing 12 barracks and one recreation center. These buildings were arranged around a mess hall and lavatory-laundry room. Minidoka ran as a self-sustaining community that had two elementary schools, a high school, a library, a 196-bed hospital, fire stations, a warehouse area consisting of 22 buildings, a newspaper, bands, choirs, orchestras and sports teams.

Although Minidoka provided most everything necessary of existence, the camp had an impact on much of the Southern Idaho community. As with most things, there were both positive and negative effects

on the area. Many people were strongly opposed to having a Relocation Center in their “backyard”.

Although Minidoka Relocation Center was fenced in with guard towers, security was minimal at the facility. Inhabitants were granted passes which allowed them to leave the camp as long as they returned before their given curfew. Because of this, the Magic Valley saw some economic boosts. Carol Ash, of the National Park Service (NPS) said internees frequently visited a movie theater in Buhl for entertainment.

The main reason for internees leaving the camp, however, was for work. Much of the work was agricultural. According to NPS, in 1944 the internees harvested 7.3 million pounds of produce in the surrounding agricultural fields. With severe labor shortages in the area during wartime, the internees helped to save the potato and sugar beet harvest.

Another significant impact on the community came from the closing of the camp. In January of 1945, the War Department began to allow internees to return to the West Coast. The camp officially closed on October 28th, 1945.

A small number of families remained in the valley.

However, most returned to their original communities in the Pacific Northwest, attempting to piece back together the life they had been forced to abandon. There have been reports that some families did neither, and instead went further east upon release from the camp.

It was decided by the Bureau of Reclamation that the now uninhabited 33,000 acres of land would be converted to farmland. A homestead lottery was held to award some veterans of the war small farms.

Many of the buildings from the The Center were demolished upon the camp being decommissioned; however, the 400 barracks were sold to individuals and/or businesses in the community to use. Many families in the surrounding area converted sections of barracks into actual houses. For those families, the history of the buildings became interwoven into their lives.

Jose, part of the Buhl Junior High 8th grade class that visited Minidoka, holds a successfully folded origami.

Sara Humbach reflects on growing up in the area of the Minidoka Relocation Center, in a house constructed from two barracks.

“As kids we were always finding old porcelain marbles, coins and pieces of remains from the prime of the Relocation Camp days. The guardhouse, a short quarter of a mile walk from our house, was our playhouse in which we spent hours climbing the cinder rocks and playing house on the remains of the structure.”

Humbach was fortunate to have parents who were passionate about educating their children on this piece of history they were indeed living in. Through books and stories her parents shared with her about Minidoka, Humbach grew to feel personally connected with the children who had been imprisoned there. “I learned that the marbles, coins and pieces of porcelain teacups that I found while playing in the dirt could once have belonged to a child just like me,” says Humbach.

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Left: Carol Ash with National Park Service works hard to educate students about the history of the Minidoka Internment Camp.

Below: Sean Gale, of Buhl Junior High, took pictures for the National Park Service as the kids took a tour of the site.

In the past two years National Parks Service has put a major focus on developing a trunk curriculum for area students. The Buhl School District has served as a pilot program for this with their service-learning unit “The Minidoka Project” which is now in its second year. Judy Geniac, NPS Superintendent for Minidoka National Historic Site, hopes this project will inspire other area schools to get involved.

In the past decade, great strides have been made in educating Southern Idaho and the American public on this darker part of our country’s history. The National Parks Service administers the 72-acre Minidoka Internment National Monument, which as of 2008 has since become a National Historic Site.

In recent years, more of the camp is being put back together to give insight into living conditions of internees. A grant awarded to Friends of Minidoka, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the general public on the incarceration experience, allowed for reconstruction of the guard tower to begin in 2013. Plans are also underway for an on-site visitor center. This is exciting, as the NPS leads a variety of groups on tours of the site annually.

Friends of Minidoka hosts the June Minidoka Pilgrimage in conjunction with a Civil Liberties Symposium alternately held between Boise State University and College of Southern Idaho. This is a time for former internees and their families to come together and revisit the site. Additionally, most years a ceremony is held February 19th on the “Day of Remembrance” marking the day Executive Order 9066 was signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

National Parks Service especially invites local educational institutions to visit the site. This October, Minidoka Historic Site was one of three locations included in Judy Hansen’s (a professor of English at CSI) Writing Workshop. Hansen explained the writing workshop as being an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of incarcerees.

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Projects like these are vital. Younger generations must be educated on our country’s history in entirety. Although it isn’t always pleasant to study this shameful chapter in American history, the exclusion of it leaves us vulnerable to having history repeat. Instead, let us as a community use this local piece of history to spread awareness and ensure that we as a country never repeat this sad violation of civil liberties.

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Artwork created by the 2013-2014 8th grade art class at Buhl Middle School. Photographed by Melissa Allen, Buhl HS Art Teacher.

www.fordtransferandstorage.com M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 103

O Optical

The doctors and staff at Eastland Vision Clinic have been serving the Twin Falls community since 1974 and specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions and disease.

We accept most insurances including Medicare and Medicaid.

Dr Gary P Walker

Dr Jared P Walker

Dr Rustin Hatch

1067 Eastland Drive, Twin Falls, ID 83301 Office hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 am-5:00pm

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www.eastlandvisionclinic.com

Carly

Eyes of the Magic Valley

Taylor

Make a connection with eye contact.

Ryan

Avree

Quincy

Amanda

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By MVL Staff Photos by Summer Brander

he eyes are said to be the window to our souls. We’ve heard of love at first sight and the importance of eye contact.

Newborn babies can typically only see between eight and 12 inches away—miraculously that’s about the same distance as a baby cradled in its mother’s arms to her eyes. No bones about it, our eyes are important. But how often do you really look someone else in the eye?

The Magic Valley is home to thousands of beautiful eyes. Not just eyes that are striking to look at, but eyes that see the invisible beauty all around us. Eyes tell a story, share our emotions, and connect us. A simple moment of eye contact (not a dominating stare) can change someone’s day, make someone smile, and will likely make you smile too. So go ahead, put down your smart phone and look at that waitress, cashier, or stranger walking down the street. Look into the eyes of Magic Valley.

Aspyn

Matthew

Chris

Meghan

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Creating Beautiful Smiles for all Ages

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O Orthodontics

At Braces R Us Orthodontics, options abound for correcting crooked teeth.

By Adrea Storey Photo by Summer Brander

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he flash of a smile is often the first impression a person makes on others. Having that perfect smile can influence many aspects of life including your career and relationships. Dr. Troy Williams, of Braces R Us Orthodontics understands this, and is devoted to making your smile beautiful.

Through 15 years of experience, Dr. Williams not only uses time-proven methods to improve smiles, but also strives to be ahead of the curve when it comes to using the newest techniques and technology in orthodontics. He is board certified and continues to keep up on new procedures through attending orthodontic seminars.

A strong advocate of education, Dr. Williams plays an active role in our community. In addition to teaching continuing education courses and instructing college courses locally, he also sponsors area school teams. He regularly volunteers with youth programs, and does his best to give back to the community through charities and food drives.

Dr. Williams, who is happily married and a father of four, recognizes the importance of family values both in and out of the workplace. “I love going to work each day and seeing all my patients while working with such a fun, kind staff,” explains Dr. Williams. “This is my dream job!”

Treatments from Braces R Us are not limited to within office walls as Dr. Williams spends much of his time traveling to locations all across Southern Idaho. The cost of braces can be a big burden, but Braces R Us offers interest free payments and accepts most insurance in an effort to keep it affordable.

In addition to offering traditional orthodontics, Braces R Us also provides treatments like Invisalign. Invisalign is a great option for people without severe dental problems or perhaps for the patient who wore braces as a child but now needs more treatment. Rather than the metal of regular braces, Invisalign consists of strong plastic trays that are fabricated especially for the patient. They are invisible, making them an appealing choice for adults, but Braces R Us also offers Invisalign Teen which is an excellent alternative for the teens, too.

For patients in need of regular braces, Dr. Williams offers a variety of choices. From traditional metal to gold plated, and even ceramics which don’t stain the teeth and are often less noticeable. Braces R Us also has the revolutionary new alignment system known as The Damon System. Damon technology makes elastic and metal ties obsolete. Patients who choose the Damon System undergo tooth alignment without the need for tightening common in traditional braces. The Damon Braces also offer fast treatment times and fewer office visits.

If you’re looking for a fun, friendly environment look no further than Braces R Us. Dr. Williams sees each patient at every visit, and welcomes parent participation. While waiting, enjoy entertainment including PlayStation 2 and TVs mounted above each chair for patient enjoyment.

Drop by our office at 1431 North Fillmore Street (Suite 100) in Twin Falls or call us at 208-737-0006 if you have any questions or are interested in setting up an appointment. For additional information look for us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

1431 N. Fillmore St. Ste. 100 Twin Falls, ID

208.737.0006 www.bracesrustf.net

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Photography

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Once Alone, Forever Home One Idaho family proves that pet adoption is the best option.

By Amber Daley Photos Courtesy of the Skillings Family

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person’s description of their ideal animal companion might look a lot like their OKCupid profile: SWF seeks an intelligent, energetic match for friendship, emotional support, and snuggling on cold nights. Must love long walks, the outdoors, and be open to new adventures.

But forget online dating; anyone in search of a loyal companion need look no further than the local animal shelter. According to the 2013-2014 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 68 percent of U.S. households own a pet; an all-time high thanks to increased social media and marketing campaigns highlighting the benefits of adoption—benefits for both man (heightened physical activity, reduced stress, and lower blood pressure) and man’s best friend.

Photo by K. Deeds

For our furry friends, adoption is life changing.

Providing them with a home—a forever home—means more than just a new beginning for a shelter dog or cat; it can mean a healthy, happy lifelong partnership.

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And for people willing to take a chance on love— the love of a rescued animal—the rewards are many.

At least Beth Skillings thinks so. For this lifelong pet-owner and 4H participant, adoption is the only option. “For the typical family—who wants a dog for protection and companionship—you’re better off visiting the shelters rather than investing in a purebred,” she says. “Sometimes, the more money people spend up front, the more maintenance is required, and sometimes they neglect the dog’s real needs: food, shelter, and love.” Skillings stresses the importance of adopting an animal based on its personality, not necessarily its breed. “Checking out the shelters provides an opportunity to see how each animal interacts with your family and whether or not it will be a good match.”

In addition to the potential health risks associated with inbreeding, Skillings also believes purchasing a purebred versus adopting a rescued animal has moral implications. “Before seeking out special breeds, we should think about the message we’re sending our kids,” says the mother of four. “When we teach them to help those in need in our community, that should include all living things. Because there are many special animals out there that need our help, and they have the same biological needs we have.”

While on a camping trip in the Magic Valley with her family in 2012, Skillings visited the Jerome Animal Shelter in search of a heeler mix that would be her daughter’s cross-country running partner. She has visited shelters in the Boise area and searched online, but just hadn’t found “the right fit.”

When she spotted a puppy with golden fur, suspected to be a lab-heeler mix between three and five months old, the Skillings thought they may have found a new member for their family. “I had both twin daughters with me, I was probably doomed—she followed us everywhere!” Skillings says with a laugh. The shelter caretaker suggested the Skillings take her home for a week to see if she would fit well into their lifestyle. The dog had a gentle but playful nature, but what really impressed the family was how she immediately came to twins’ whistle.

How Safe is that Doggie in the Window?

Pets fill humans’ basic need for companionship.

When properly trained and treated humanely, they respond in kind—faithfully, dutifully, and with unconditional love. Their presence in a home is even linked with several health benefits that result from increased physical activity and stress relief.

But experts acknowledge that adopting an animal isn’t all fun and games. In addition to requiring increased responsibility on the part of pet owners and initial costs related to veterinary bills, some animals may have suffered abuse and neglect, and could be at risk for aggressive behavior, potentially putting your family or others at risk. Be sure to adequately research an animal’s breed and background before committing to pet ownership.

To learn more about pet adoption opportunities, contact the Jerome Animal Shelter at 208-324-8436.

Today, at two years old, a once-little Nala is now full grown and has found her forever home. She is a thriving member of the clan, enjoying her frequent outings with Beth and her daughters and being protective of her new family. From the beginning, she didn’t have any negative habits but instead was sweet-tempered, submissive, easily trained, and got along well with young children and the other pets in the household: two dogs, a cat, a few goats, and a small family of ducks that frequent the family’s pool. “She’s little miss sunshine,” says Skillings. “Nala gets along with everyone!”

“Nala has never run away from me or wandered off, either—I think that’s part of adopting a dog,” says Skillings.

“And she’s an intuitive little thing, very good at reading people. Maybe she has some special little soul in her.” Indeed, when looking for that special soul, sometimes you find love in the most unlikely places.

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Experience Counts

Therapists at the Center for Physical Rehabilitation have the knowledge and latest

By Joseph Talbot techniques to help you regain mobility.

Photos Courtesy of CPR

W

hile most recognize “CPR” as the acronym that describes the life-saving procedure learned by everyone from babysitters to surgeons, it also stands for Center for Physical Rehabilitation. And many of their patients find the experts at CPR to be just as life-saving. They possess the skills, the facilities, and the experience to make time in therapy a comfortable success.

“What makes us different is our experience,” says Julie Ellis, PT, SCS co-founder and the only Sports Certified Specialist in Twin Falls. “We have a unique blend of therapists who have been helping patients with mobility for 35 years as well as newer therapists and interns that bring knowledge of the latest in technological advantages.” By working as a team and constantly keeping everyone up-to-date on research based rehabilitation treatment techniques, CPR is able to provide their patients with the best care possible.

Regardless of the severity of your injury, CPR has the experience to guide you to regaining your function. CPR has a variety of experts including Dave Little, PT, CHT , a Certified Hand Specialist and Dennis Gillette who has advanced training and years of experience working with neurologi112 | Mag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014

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cal conditions and prosthetics/ orthotics. Both Tracy Ervin, MPT and Seth Phillips, MPT are Workwell Certified and can perform Job Analysis and Functional Capacity evaluations. CPR has three Doctors of Physical Therapy who add new areas of knowledge in vestibular rehabilitation, gait analysis and manual skills. CPR’s staff is well rounded with nine Physical Therapists and three Physical Therapy Assistants as well.

The therapists at CPR take a very hands-on approach to care, making sure that their patient’s anxieties are addressed.

Patients participate in therapy as a part of the team—they are in charge of their rehabilitation through the direction of their therapist. “We provide personal, one-on-one care,” says Ervin.

As experts in work place injury CPR’s team can focus on getting people back to work after injuries that would otherwise limit their function. Serving the needs of nine different industries in the Magic Valley in prevention and overall body mechanics, CPR stands out as a provider of healthcare services that cares about the entire patient, not just the injury they arrive with. It’s a process that serves not only the employees seeking to return to full employment, but also the employers who need healthy and capable staff on their team.

Being involved in the entire process from injury prevention to rehabilitation gives Ervin and her teammates the flexibility they need to serve the needs of the industry as a whole.

For employers it makes sense to prevent costly injuries with

Physical Therapy

inexpensive prevention techniques, and for employees it’s a sure way to avoid costly time off work.

The constant pursuit of excellence is manifested in how CPR handles each and every patient. And the patients really respect their therapists, as is evidence by the long list of accolades on CPR’s Facebook page.

Writes one happy patient: “The Best Physical Therapy period! Amazing staff from top to bottom! I have done a lot of physical therapy throughout my athletic career before becoming an amputee. None compare to CPR,” writes one satisfied patient. He continues, “ They gave me a wonderful gift, they gave me my life back! I’ve seen their entire staff work multiple cases, with patients ranging from children to the elderly. They’re compassionate, caring and professional. The best. Period.”

You don’t need a physician referral to visit the experts at CPR. They are easily accessible and are covered by most major insurance policies. They also offer a cash option visit for those rare patients whose insurance doesn’t cover physical therapy.

So whether it’s a complicated work injury, a motor vehicle accident, or a sprained ankle from a game of pick-up basketball that has your mobility impacted, CPR can help improve your function with thorough professionalism that will have you back to work or play in no time.

754 N. College Rd. Ste. D Twin Falls, ID

208.734.5313 www.cprtherapy.org M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 113

Up and Running When a car collided with Sarah Scarrow, she didn’t walk away, she ran.

By Joseph Talbot Photos by Summer Brander

S

arah Scarrow never considered herself a runner. She never expected to be inspirational either. But fate would change that with an unfortunate accident that changed her and her life. Before she knew it, Sarah had become an inspiration to a lot of people.

Sarah describes herself as a band geek in high school, never really participating in sports and athletics. In fact, the only organized sport she ever participated in was competitive swimming as a child. It wasn’t until 2006 that she found herself wanting to try running so she could spend more time with her husband, Brett. The young mother of two found running with her experienced and dedicated runner husband difficult at first. In the beginning she mostly just watched Brett run circles around her. Eventually, after working through the side splitting pain and discouragement she discovered the runner’s high and could almost keep up with her husband. “Once you get past all those feelings like ‘I can’t breathe, I can’t move, I’m gonna throw up,’ you know running is actually really fun,” says Sarah. Eventually the pair began exploring new locations together and Sarah found that running had become less of a challenge and more of an adventure.

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“My doctor started looking through my transcripts (medical notes) that were this thick,” she holds her fingers apart Finding new places to run became part of the drive to keep going for Sarah. Every run brought new locations, different views, and more interesting paths to follow. “We ran at all the different falls, all the different places we could find,” says Sarah.

In 2013, the search for new locations led Sarah to her first half marathon, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in Tempe, Arizona, where her life changed.

to indicate a thickness of about 4 inches.”

She doesn’t remember much of the accident itself, or the following week for that matter. However, according to witnesses Sarah turned around to retrieve her fallen water bottle on the way to the starting line and a car struck her going about 40 miles per hour. “I didn’t realize how badly I had been injured at first because of the brain injury,” explains Sarah. “The very first realization for me was when they took me down out of the coma for surgery, [the nurse] had said ‘you’ve been hit by a car’ and I remember feeling so broken … I didn’t think I was going to live through the surgery.”

The realization of the extent of her injuries came piecemeal. She spent a month in the ICU undergoing multiple surgeries. Pain medication was a constant.

She couldn’t move—her back and left femur were shattered in several places; she couldn’t eat or speak— her mouth was wired shut and her entire right side of her face was rebuilt. By the time she could actually remember what her medical staff and loved ones were telling her she was back home in Idaho and at the beginning of the long road to recovery.

After returning to her regular physician in Twin Falls, Sarah began to get a clear view of how badly her body had been battered by the accident. “My doctor started looking through my transcripts (medical notes) that were this thick,” she holds her fingers apart to indicate a thickness of about 4 inches. As her physician starting naming off all the injuries Sarah sustained, she was shocked. “I was like, ‘really? I fractured my T4 vertebrae?’ and I realized why they hadn’t wanted me to bend and turn.” Suddenly the full scope of the accident became very clear, as well as the length of the road she would have to travel if she were ever to run again.

The Road to Recovery

On her journey toward recovery Sarah drew strength from several personal sources, one of whom was already a lifetime hero, her father Dale. A firefighter and outdoors enthusiast, Sarah’s father taught her the true meaning of perseverance after suffering his own traumatic event. “My dad had a horrible snowmobile accident in 2000. He had to be life flighted to Seattle for surgery,” explains Sarah. “I saw how hard it was hard on him, but now I understand.” Dale has since passed away, but she still carries his memory as a source of inspiration. Not figuratively, but literally. She actually used his walker during her therapy as a reminder of what determination can accomplish. Even after his near death experience her father returned to his life as a firefighter, an act that helps Sarah believe that she too can return to her life as a runner.

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Sarah Scarrows fights for her life after being hit by a car.

Another motivational figure for Sarah is Matt Long, the subject of a popular book called The Long Run. Long was at the top of his running game, competing in marathons and triathlons and even qualifying to run in the prestigious Boston Marathon. However, after being struck and dragged by a New York bus making an illegal turn Long was reduced to a mangled image of his former self. His story of dedication and strength in the face of incredible odds was an inspiration to Sarah, who found herself in a very similar, if not quite as dramatic situation. After reading the book she says she told herself, “if he can do it after what happened to him, then there’s no reason I can’t.” Sarah attacked her therapy with determination, and soon found herself up and walking, then running again. She began focusing on training for the Spirit of the Magic Valley 5k Fun Run held in Twin Falls this past May. Sarah says she feels like she did when she started running with her husband all those years ago. “It hurts.” But even still she manages to remain focused and steadfast in her recovery. “Some days I say, ‘I just wanna lay in bed’ and I do. Then the next day I’m like, ‘alright I’m tired of this, let’s go!’ And I get up and go.

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As long as you keep a positive attitude you’ll do fine.”

For Sarah it’s all about the big picture, not the daily grind, and she uses that perspective to help her keep focused on her ultimate goal of running in a half marathon. “I’m going to keep working at it until I do it, and then I’ll probably dial it back a little bit and only do 5k and 10k races.”

Even with all the inspirational figures in her life, Sarah attributes her positive attitude to her personal conviction as a Christian. Talking about her experience waking up in a hospital and being told she had been hit by a car she says, “I told my husband ‘I’m going to die,’ and I actually felt like I was leaving myself for a while … You can actually feel the other side.” But Sarah wasn’t afraid. “Everything happens for a reason … I wasn’t scared for myself, but for my kids, yes.” Her two children at the time were 11 and 7 years old, and the thought of not seeing them again did frighten her. They had already seen their grandpa pass four years earlier. Would they witness the same thing with their mother? Fortunately it was not to be, and Sarah was brought successfully back to Idaho to show her children, as well as others, that obstacles are given to us to be overcome.

“Everything happens for a reason . . . I wasn’t scared for myself, but for my kids, yes.”

Passing on the Inspiration

People like Sarah teach us something about what a person can accomplish with a positive attitude. We can learn from them and admire their strength. However, perhaps the most relevant aspect of Sarah’s story is what each of us can draw from her example. After having multiple bones shattered and reconstructed, after having her chin split down the middle and going through two weeks of reconstructive surgery, and even through months of rehabilitation and retraining, Sarah considers a 10 kilometer race to be “dialing it back.” How many of us can even remotely say the same thing? How many of us whine when the elevator of our three story office building is broken, or groan when we bend over to pick up our keys?

Nearly 35 percent of American adults are obese, scarier still 17 percent of children age 2 to 19 are obese and we can’t blame diet alone. Americans need to be more active. Stories like Sarah’s can serve as an inspiration to us all. There should be no reason we can’t spare a few minutes to get up and waddle around the block a couple of times. Especially if our bones are intact, our bodies sound, and we haven’t been clobbered by a bus or car.

Sarah was nearly killed by a car, and she’s doing it. What’s your excuse?

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Stomping Out Foot and Ankle Pain

The experts at Advanced Foot and Ankle use modern techniques so patients can get back on their feet again.

By Joseph Talbot Photos by Summer Brander

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dvanced Foot and Ankle is a podiatry clinic in Twin Falls that specializes in the most advanced treatments for the most complicated medical issues. Matt Wettstein, DPM can treat everything from ingrown toenails to heel spurs while providing pain relieving devices and methods that make your visit as comfortable as possible. Add to that fluent Spanish and an employee who is a certified sign language interpreter and Advanced Foot and Ankle becomes a clear choice in the Magic Valley for anyone seeking relief from painful feet.

Dr. Wettstein and the staff at Advanced Foot and Ankle are devoted to providing the best care possible for their patients. Whether you suffer from bunions, nail fungus, a sprained ankle, complications in your feet caused by diabetes, or any number of issues affecting your feet, the experts at Advanced Foot and Ankle know how to help. Your feet are the foundation of your body, taking you where you need to go. Dr. Wettstein and staff don’t take foot pain lightly, and neither should you.

A common complaint of any visitor to the doctor’s office is the discomfort and pain of procedures.

At Advanced Foot and Ankle they employ the most modern techniques available to make the process as effective as possible. “We do our injections under the guidance of ultrasound or fluoroscopy (a real-time x-ray), so I can actually see the needle enter and ensure that it’s in the right place,” explains Dr. Wettstein.

The technique Dr. Wettstein employs helps the medication get where it needs to be, minimizing the need for repeat injections so his patients leave with less pain than when they arrived, not more.

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Thanks to the recent uptick in cookie sales by the Girl Scouts of the USA, the clinic has quite a few boxes of Thin Mints laying around. Tawna, the office manager hands a box to a patient on his way out the door, “We have too many of these right now, take some home with you,” says Tawna. Always smiling and helpful, she clearly loves her job. It’s this kind of service that sets Advanced Foot and Ankle apart and puts their patients at ease while visiting.

After graduating from medical school in Iowa and completing his residency in Salt Lake City, Dr. Wettstein was happy to join the growing community of businesses in the Magic Valley. “It seemed like a great place for a new practice, you could really tell there was room for growth,” says Dr. Wettstein. And he was right. The Magic Valley has seen steady growth in the last few years, with record breaking profits in the agricultural industry and new factories popping up left and right. Twin Falls has become a springboard for practices looking to find a steady flow of clients.

With all this growth it might be easy to miss Advanced Foot and Ankle, which is located between Wal-Mart and St. Luke’s on Cheney Drive. As one of the newest practices in town your car’s GPS might not have them accurately recorded. “Some patients have walked into Gold’s Gym looking for us,” laughs Dr. Wettstein. But when you do find Advanced Foot and Ankle, you won’t miss the pain they’ll help relieve you of.

P

Physicans

WHEN TO CALL A FOOT DOCTOR People call a doctor of podiatry for help diagnosing and treating a wide array of foot and ankle problems. Please contact our office if you experience one of the following: • • • •

Persistent pain in your feet or ankles Changes in the nails or skin on your foot Severe cracking, scaling, or peeling on the heel or foot Blisters on your feet

There are signs of bacterial • • • •

•

• • •

•

infection, including:

Increased pain, swelling, redness, tenderness, or heat Red streaks extending from the affected area Discharge or pus from an area on the foot Foot or ankle symptoms that do not improve after two weeks of treatment with a nonprescription product Spreading of an infection from one area of the foot to another, such as under the nail bed, skin under the nail, the nail itself, or the surrounding skin Thickening toenails that cause discomfort Heel pain accompanied by a fever, redness (sometimes warmth), or numbness Tingling in the heel; persistent heel pain without putting any weight or pressure on your heel Pain that is not alleviated by ice or over-thecounter painkillers (such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen)

476 Cheney Dr. W. #180 Twin Falls, ID 208.731.6321 1263 Bennett Ave. Burley, ID 208.312.4646

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Going the Extra Mile (s) Falls to Falls Fun Run is raising funds

By Lisa Jensen for trail enhancement.

Photos by Summer Brander

J

aime Tigue will tell you that there are few better ways to enjoy the spring weather than with a fun run. The founder of the Magic Valley Trail Enhancement Committee (MaVTEC) and director for the annual Falls to Falls Fun Run came up with the idea as a fundraiser for a running club at the College of Southern Idaho. Participants so enjoyed running—and even walking—along the course between the canyons that Tigue knew the event would be just as successful for MaVTEC. “We want to create a distance trail for the community by updating and connecting the trail systems in the Magic Valley,” Tigue says. “So the proceeds from the Falls to Falls Fun Run stay right here to benefit the runners and enhance the canyon rim.”

One million dollars is the target for MaVTEC to be able to meet their goal. They’re off to a good start with $30,000, but have a long way to go. The entry fees from the F2F, in addition to fees from a few other races throughout the spring and summer, will go toward the million-dollar target. Additionally, the club has high hopes for a grant from the Twin Falls Department of Parks and Recreation that they plan to put toward finishing the Pillar Falls section on the canyon rim.

The original idea behind the event was for the course to be from Shoshone Falls to Twin Falls, thus “Falls to Falls.” However, Tigue explains, “We couldn’t host a race down at Shoshone Falls due to parking space. Deirke’s Lake holds the most parking, so the course actually runs between Deirke’s and the Twin Falls Power Plant Park.”

Because runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate, the Falls to Falls Fun Run has several different events held all on one day.

There’s a 5.2 mile event for walkers and runners, a 10.5 mile partner and solo run and even a 1-mile

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kids run. The gun time for walkers, runners in the 10.5 mile event and the partner runners is at 8:30 a.m.

Runners in the 5.2 mile event begin at the sound of the starter’s pistol at 9:30 a.m. and the kids start their 1-mile run at 10:30 a.m.

With 2014 marking the seventh annual F2F Fun Run, the event has built up a following over the years.

“Participation has grown,” says Tigue. “We’re expecting around 300 participants this year. It’s great to see new faces, and we get new people all the time, but it’s just as nice to see the ones who keep coming back year after year.”

Many runners and walkers participate as a group.

Tigue lists Thompson Trucking in Jerome and Idaho Central Credit Union among groups of co-workers who enjoy taking part in the fun run each year. “We get groups of high school kids, too, from around the state, and we offer discounts on entry fees for those who want to register as a group,” explains Tigue.

Another gratifying part of the fun run for Tigue is seeing the efforts of the committee in the pre-race organization and the volunteers during the event itself. “Volunteers are always welcome,” says Tigue.

“We always need help with traffic control and water stations. Spouses or friends of runners can be a lot of help during the race and still get to see their runners participate.”

Sponsors are much appreciated, as well. From donating cash to helping with prizes, businesses such as Clif Bar, Idaho Central Credit Union, Twin Stop and St. Luke’s are all vital for the success of the F2F Fun Run each year.

Twin Falls may be laid-back, but Jaime Tigue knows she and MaVTEC can count on the community to support the event. “The Falls to Falls Fun Run has such a great following, and we get great support from the community.” It’s part of what puts “magic” in the Magic Valley.

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Back in Action

A spinal injury might mean missed work, but one local practice believes it shouldn’t mean missing out on life.

By Amber Daley Photos by Summer Brander

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nyone who has experienced a spinal injury— and the resulting back pain—knows how debilitating it can be. A person who is temporarily incapacitated due to such an injury may miss several days of work or school and have to forego attending social activities until the healing process is complete. And due to the complexity of these injuries, prompt and proper treatment is an absolute must, as it can mean the difference between a full recovery or a lifetime of discomfort.

Fortunately for those suffering from spinal and orthopaedic injuries, a visit to the professionals at Intermountain Spine and Orthopaedics is the first step toward getting back on your feet—literally.

Dr. David Christensen, the practice’s primary physician, focuses on enhancing the quality of life for his patients, particularly by providing superior treatment, administered speedily and effectively.

By utilizing advanced medical technologies the clinic is able to provide state-of-the-art care in spinal, orthopaedic, and sports medicine applications. For instance, Dr. Christensen has pioneered and perfected surgical procedures that are minimally invasive, meaning speedier recovery time and decreased risk of infection.

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P

Physicans

Intermountain Spine and Orthopedics Intermountain Spine and Orthopaedics approaches patient treatment with efficiency in mind, offering several services in-house. For example, taking X-rays at the clinic minimizes the need to send patients to another medical facility, therefore maximizing the overall quality of care.

The clinic’s customer-oriented team is highly trained to provide exceptional service. From the start, physicians assistants and other staff members are sought out and valued for their attentiveness; hiring decisions are based as much on an individual’s compassionate nature in healthcare-related scenarios as on clinical skill and competence. These qualities are crucial, because throughout the clinical process—evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, then recovery—the cohesive team attends to a patient from beginning to end. This not only maximizes the patient experience, but it also prevents medical errors and oversights.

August 2014 will bring an expansion to the Intermountain Spine and Orthopaedics team with the addition of Dr. Matthew Blake. Dr. Blake is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon who specializes in shoulders and elbows though he will be taking on general orthopaedic cases, such as total knees and hips. “We are increasing the capacity of ISO to better care for those in the Magic Valley,” explains Dr. Christensen. “We are also working on adding an onsite physical therapist so patients requiring physical therapy can start treatment immediately.”

While Dr. Christensen acknowledges that injuries are inevitable, he also devotes significant time and attention to helping educate the community about preventative measures that will help minimize the risk of injury. In particular, commercial and industrial environments often require demanding physical activity,

1411 Falls Ave. E., Suite 1301.

Twin Falls, ID Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. M -F 208-732-0067. www.intermountainspineortho.com.

heavy lifting and other maneuvers that may place stress on the joints or cause injuries. Christensen has provided public education and has worked with many large companies in the Magic Valley to help educate, prevent, and treat when necessary injuries incurred while at work.

Dr. Christensen sees the importance of starting young when it comes to proper spine and orthopaedic education and care. As the team physician for Twin Falls High School, he administers sports medicine treatments when necessary. And, since the majority of sports injuries are orthopedic in nature, this fall, Intermountain Spine and Orthopaedics will offer a sports medicine clinic on Saturdays, available to student athletes throughout the entire Magic Valley who may have been injured during sports events and activities in the days or hours leading up to the weekend. For instance, a high school football player injured during Friday night’s game would be able to see an orthopaedic surgeon on Saturday morning, eliminating the need for an ER visit.

Upon concluding treatment, patients are pleased with their speed of recovery—so pleased, in fact, that many return to Intermountain Spine and Orthopaedics if and when they need treatment again in the future. As one happy patient says, “It’s a long ways for me to drive (I live in Idaho Falls) but he is such a great doctor that I’d do it again if I have the need.”

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Good Food, Good Music, Good Times

It’s easy to get a bite of the world at the Brickhouse.

W

hile throwing a dinner party is daunting to most, Acy Maldonado-Acosta and Ed Sadia enjoy it enough to do it almost every night.

The owners of the Brickhouse love bringing unique ethnic food to the Magic Valley and serving it up in style with live jazz music to create the fun, friendly atmosphere that makes a lively party out of any ordinary evening.

As culinary connoisseurs, Acy and Ed are in an elite class.

They enjoy traveling the world, trying new types of cuisine and bringing distinctive, unusual tastes back to the Brickhouse. That’s why they call it “A Bite of the World.” “We like bringing in different dishes from around the world and authentically making them for our customers” explains Acy. Sometimes making a meal “authentically” means bringing in a guest chef. Friends and family have often come in to work the Brickhouse’s kitchen for an evening, cooking alongside Executive Chef Laura Todd to create meals for the restaurant’s nightly special.

The best way to describe the Brickhouse’s style is “ethnic-fusion.” The menu is constantly a work in progress, however, and changes all the time. Acy and Ed like to bring their culinary experiences back to Chef Laura and work with her to craft exceptional dishes that provide one-of-a-kind taste experiences for the guests of the Brickhouse.

Starting the last week of May and running through the summer the Brickhouse opens its large patio for barbeque time. They call it “B&B”—barbeque and bottomless, a festive cook-out event every Friday and Saturday all summer long featuring all types of barbeque and a selection of drafts on tap to wash it down. And while the dining room inside the Brickhouse features live blues, jazz and contemporary

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By Lisa Jensen Photos by Summer Brander

music each weekend, guests can count on the live music on the patio to be rock, country or alternative.

The terrific thing about the Brickhouse is that anyone can take advantage of their party-throwing expertise and fabulous food. The Brickhouse caters and has three party rooms that can be modified to comfortably accommodate gatherings as small as 30 or even expanded for larger groups up to 250. Considering they offer full-service catering, from linens to DJ’s, set-up to tear-down, alongside delectable Mexican, Italian and American dishes and a full bar, it’s easy to understand why Brickhouse catering is as popular as the restaurant itself.

If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of dining at the Brickhouse, don’t put it off for a special occasion. You can always have them cater your birthday or anniversary party or even your next corporate luncheon. In the meantime, with the live music and comfortable, friendly surroundings, even a weeknight is occasion enough to get together for delicious food and a good time at the Brickhouse.

Brickhouse

516 Hansen St S. Twin Falls, ID 208.736.6264 tfbrickhouse.com

Menu Highlights:

Turkey Asada Sandwich Apple Wood Penne Green Chili Lasagna Nightly Ethnic Specials

R

Viewing

Restaurant

the Best

Executive Chef Richard Berger (left) with Dan Willie (right) owner of Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center. Willie was recently presented with the Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Be prepared to have your mind (and taste buds) blown at Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center.

D

uring the last 35 years, Magic Valley businessman Dan Willie has accomplished a lot but the crown jewel might just be Canyon Crest Dining and Event Center. Located on the rim of the scenic Snake River Canyon, the Canyon Crest experience is best explained in four words: Wow! What a View! Both the spacious, elegant dining room and the up-scale yet comfortable lounge look out over the canyon, offering up spectacular views.

But view isn’t the only exceptional feature of Canyon Crest. Executive Chef Richard Berger, who studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York and has an impressive background, composes the appetizing menus focusing on the best that local farmers and vendors have to offer. Developing menus that cater to different seasons and appeal to a variety of tastes is just the challenge the chef enjoys. He rises to the occasion, changing out the menu bi-monthly and tailoring the lunch, dinner and bar menus to suit all specific needs.

“Canyon Crest offers a cross-section of wonderful lunch items, including spinach and raspberry salad, potato chowder and a mushroom Swiss elk burger, all the way to dinner fare that includes Idaho beef, lamb and pork with a menu that changes to match the seasons,” Chef Berger details.

By Lisa Jensen Photo by Summer Brander

For most people, offering a memorable dining experience in an unforgettable atmosphere would be enough, but not for Dan Willie. Canyon Crest was built to accommodate events large and small. For starters, there’s the secluded Boardroom specifically designed for private parties as small as intimate dinners for two, or up to 20 for those extra-special gatherings. The Boardroom also features its own private patio, complete with a balcony, fire pit and gorgeous view of the canyon.

With an on-site banquet facility that can accommodate over 500 people, Canyon Crest is a premier venue to host large events such as business conventions, corporate outings, trade shows, and of course, weddings. Canyon Crest’s event planners can make it all happen by weaving in the traditions, sounds, tastes and passions meaningful to the client. Every event is one-of-a-kind.

Having tied together unrivaled views, fabulous food, exquisite atmosphere and incredible event services, Dan Willie has given the Magic Valley numerous reasons to visit Canyon Crest. Regardless of which element draws you there you’re sure to exclaim, “Wow! What a view!”

Many people in the Magic Valley make Canyon Crest Sunday brunch a weekend tradition. With delectable breakfast and lunch items available, such as thick-cut French toast, buttermilk pancakes, smoked trout and other meats, there’s something for everyone.

Canyon Crest also has an inviting Happy Hour. Featuring craft beers on tap and appetizer and drink specials, you can celebrate every day of the week in the elegant lounge that’s comfortable enough to indulge in a scotch and cigar. When weather permits take your drinks or dine outdoors on the patios positioned right on the canyon’s rim.

330 Canyon Crest Drive | Twin Falls, ID

208.733.9392 www.canyoncrestdining.com Hours: Daily 11:30 a.m., Happy Hour 3 to 6 p.m.

Sunday Brunch 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

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RR Restaurant RestaurantGuide Guide A guide to some of the Magic Valleys’ best places to eat.

Cafe/grill

New Zealand & English cusineg

Idaho Joe’s

Kiwi’s Fish-n-Chips

598 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.9403 www.idahojoestwinfalls.com Su. - Th. 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.; F - Sa. 6 a.m. to midnight

1007 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.1535 Open daily summer 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; winter 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Closed on Sundays

Locally owned and operated for over 15 years, Idaho Joe’s is a local favorite for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Come taste our homemade pies, biscuits, corn bread and more that are freshly baked daily in our in-house bakery. Breakfast buffet and crepe bar on Saturdays and an endless Sunday brunch never fail to please.

Kiwi’s Fish-n-Chips is a locally owned and operated business.

With our own New Zealand pastry chef, we deliver authentic New Zealand and English style cuisine. All our meat pies and desserts are unique to this area. We make them from scratch each day to bring you freshness and quality. Our coleslaw, tartar and cocktail sauces are all family recipes handed down.

We strive to give our customers a delightful dining experience.

Beer and wine available, too.

Menu Highlights:

Navajo Tacos, Homemade Pies, Campfire Steak, Fried Catfish Dinner

Bar/Grill

Menu Highlights: Fish and Chips in a New Zealand light batter, Meat Pies, Shantytown Sandwich, Potato Topped Pie

Anchor Bistro and Bar 334 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.6566 anchorbistro.com

Daily 11 a.m to close.; Sa. - Su. 10 a.m. during football season

Owners Tim and Shawna Obenchain invite you in to experience the ambiance of Twin Falls’ best restaurant, Anchor Bistro and Bar. Our non-smoking environment is perfect to catch the game on our 14 TVs including an 80”, sample from our 16 tap beers and enjoy the great atmosphere of the Anchor Bistro. Check out live music on one of Twin Falls’ best patios. Bring your friends in today to experience some great food and beverage at the Anchor.

Menu Highlights:

Captain’s Choice Burger with smoked gouda, bacon, lettuce, tomato and chipotle mayo, Anchor Mahi Club Sandwich, Prime Rib Slider served on a pretzel bun with gorgonzola 126 | Mag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014

Guide R RRestaurant Restaurant Guide

A guide to some of the Magic Valleys’ best places to eat.

Asian

Pizza / Burgers

Pho TaKi/Little India Restaurant

Gertie’s Brick Oven Cookery

404 Addison Ave. W. (inside Asian Food Market) Twin Falls, ID 208.736.7111 M - Sa. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Introducing new kinds of food to Twin Falls. “One of the Best Discoveries for New Restaurants” Little India has the best Butter Chicken, Chicken Curry and Chicken Biryani. Try our Lamb Korma with tender pieces of lamb in a rich creamy sauce. Discover new Pho authentic dishes like Pho Noodle Soup, fresh Spring Rolls, and Teriyaki Chicken. The variety and selections are fantastic. Come in and enjoy the flavors of the orient.

Menu Highlights:

602 2nd Ave. S. Twin Falls, ID 208.736.9110 gertiesboc.com Su. - Th. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; F - Sa. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Gertie’s is a locally owned family fun restaurant. We have over 70 different kinds of pizzas. Enjoy our lunch menu available Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. featuring sandwiches and burgers, there is something for everyone. Great for family get togethers, special occasions, and school functions.

Menu Highlights:

Famous All-You-Can-Eat Pizza Chopper Burger with onions, mushrooms, bacon and cheese Delicious Finger Steaks. Variety of Sandwiches

Vegetable Samosa Butter Chicken Lamb Korma Pho Noodle Soup

MEXICAN

La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant 1288 Blue Lakes Blvd.

Twin Falls, ID 208.734.0685 Su. - Th. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; F - Sa. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Welcome to La Fiesta! Open since 2004, we serve authentic Mexican food and margaritas. Voted Best Mexican Food for multiple years. Watch the big game in our sports bar, or enjoy the Idaho weather on our patio. Come and experience our family friendly atmosphere and courteous staff. We’ll satisfy your craving and won’t break the bank.

Menu Highlights:

Famous Sizzling Fajitas Carne Asada Pollo Crema Carnitas Cancun M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 127

RR Restaurant RestaurantGuide Guide A guide to some of the Magic Valleys’ best places to eat.

Sports Bar

Grill / Pool

Scooter’s Chillin’ and Grillin’

The Pocket

137 2nd Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.969.9940 Open Daily 11 a.m. to close

1532 Kimberly Rd. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.9676 twinfallspocket.com Open Daily 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Scooter’s is the newest family friendly sports bar and grill located in the heart of Twin Falls. Featuring an inviting atmosphere and friendly staff that prides themselves in making your visit memorable. Our sauces and dressings are made from scratch and with the freshest ingredients. Stop in for lunch or dinner and drinks with friends and enjoy a fresh twist on all your favorite menu items at Scooters! Check out Happy Hour 4-5-6-7: 4 items, $5 each, until 6 p.m., 7 days a week.

Twin Falls Reader’s Choice for Best Place to Play Pool in the Magic Valley. Great food, friendly staff and a full bar to meet your needs.

WE have the best pool tables in town and TVs everywhere to watch your favorite sports. Come in for a “break” at the Pocket!

Menu Highlights:

Great 1/3 lb. Burgers Homestyle Fries

Menu Highlights:

Fresh Smoked Beef Brisket, Pulled Pork, Garlic Parm Fries

Italian

Teodora Caffe Italiano 1563 Fillmore Street Twin Falls, ID 208.735.5039 www.TeodoraCaffe.com M - Th. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; F - Sa 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Teodora in Italian means “Gift of God”. This name was chosen because it perfectly describes where the opportunity to open this restaurant came from. Teodora Caffe is a place where people enjoy spending time with family, friends, great food and wine.

We look forward to serving you. Remember to call us for all your catering needs.

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Menu Highlights:

Modern pasta dishes, Authentic Flat Bread Pizzas, and Hand Crafted Panini’s

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Restaurant Guide

A guide to some of the Magic Valleys’ best places to eat.

Mexican

FAMILY RESTAURANT

Janitzio Mexican Restaurant

River Rock Grill

2096 Kimberly Rd. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.3855 www.janitziomexican.com Open Daily 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

1824 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.0722 RiverRockGrillTwinFalls.com M - Sa. 11 a.m. to close

Janitzio has been serving the Magic Valley for more than eight years. Our team is passionately committed to quality and excellent service. When you’re looking for great Mexican food, Janitzio is the place to be. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and your family and friends. Buen Provecho, Amigos!

River Rock Grill serves top quality, made-to-order dishes prepared with the finest local ingredients. Grilled steaks and burgers, fresh fish, crisp salads and hearty sandwiches are unique and fresh.

Enjoy your meal with one of our specialty cocktails or a glass of wine or beer and finish your meal with one of our home-made desserts. We can seat large groups in our restaurant or banquet room with no problem, so bring your friends and family for a down-home dining experience.

Menu Highlights:

Plato Mexicano - carne asada charbroiled skirt steak filets, chile relleno and two taquitos rancheros, served with rice, beans, sour cream, guacamole and tortillas.

Carne Adobada - marinated in red adobo sauce, fine filets of skirt steak charbroiled and garnished with green onions and guacamole.

Menu Highlights: Steaks, Fresh Fish, Pastas, Burgers, Salads and Sandwiches

dinner house

Rock Creek 200 Addison Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.4154 www.rockcreektwinfalls.com Bar opens daily 4:30 p.m.; Happy Hour M - Sa. 4:30 - 6:30p.m.; Dining M - Sa. 5:30 p.m. to close; Su. 5 p.m. to close Come enjoy casual dining in a comfortable atmosphere. As Idaho’s classic dinner house since 1978, we know a thing or two about great food. Enjoy old fashioned bone-in Prime Rib, high Choice/ Prime graded steaks and fresh seafood. We even have over 100 wines to choose from earning us Wine Spectator’s “Award of Excellence” from 2001 to 2008. Have us host your next event in our banquet room with no room charge.

Menu Highlight

Steaks, Prime Rib, Fresh Seafood, Cocktails M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 129

Damage Control Summit Restoration makes timely and quality work of property damaged by flood, fire and wind.

By Joseph Talbot Photos by Summer Brander

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ummit Restoration began as and still is a family owned business that started over 14 years ago in the Magic Valley. Throughout these years Summit Restoration has maintained its position at the top and has become the go-to name for restoration work for both residential and commercial buildings.

Devotion to detail and excellent workmanship is the primary reason for their success, but owner Murray Clark thinks it’s much more than that. “We have the best professionals in the industry,” he says. “The employees at Summit make the difference. We all believe in quality and timely service. Our core employees have each been with the company for more than 10 years, and have a combined experience of 200 plus years.”

Joe Mendonca is an employee who began working for Summit on their first day of business over 14 years ago. Like the other employees, he is a longtime resident of the Magic Valley and has family and interests in the area.

“Our customers appreciate these seasoned workers with their great work ethic,” explains Clark. “When one experiences a devastating event, professional and immediate help is a phone call away, 24/7/365 WE provide it!”

Structures that are damaged or destroyed by FIRE or FLOOD need the assistance of a full service restoration company like Summit Restoration. Their many years of

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experience provide understanding of the insurance repair process. They are able to provide immediate assistance in securing the structure, mitigating the damage, restoring the property and your peace of mind.

Happy customer, Polly Wheatley says it best: “My insurance company told me I could call Summit Restoration, and I did. The employees at Summit were caring, timely and professional in both manner and appearance. Their knowledge and skill gave me great confidence and comfort.”

After a local restaurant in Twin Falls suffered from a large fire, they called Summit Restoration. “They were there every day,” recalls the owner. “I am so happy I called Summit. The fire was devastating to me, but they were quick to answer my questions and provide rapid repairs. My restaurant has never looked better and I have many new friends at Summit.”

With the ability to respond to calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year the professionals at Summit Restoration have experienced a wide variety of circumstances. “Our state of the art equipment helps provide fast, efficient services to each customer,” says Clint Richards, Project Manager. “Our extraction and drying equipment is unmatched in the Magic Valley.”

Another service offered by Summit Restoration is fast, efficient, and thorough CARPET CLEANING. For a very reasonable price their Vortex carpet cleaning equipment can clean carpets above the level of other commercial and rental cleaners. Joyce Scott, a recent recipient of Summit carpet cleaning services says, “I was very impressed with the way they worked. They were on time, the price was fair, and their work excellent. Our carpets are over

Restoration

Before

After 10 years old and now they look new again.” Justin James, Carpet Technician says, “Our equipment and experience makes it uniquely possible for us to deliver cleaner carpets that dry in half the time.”

Should you ever find yourself needing emergency services, restoration, or just a carpet cleaning call the professionals at Summit Restoration 208-734-5311, a full service company— Helping people—Restoring their property.

Serving the Magic Valley

208.734.5311 summitrest.com

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What to Expect from a Home Inspection Whether you’re buying or selling a home, getting your house inspected before the key changes hands is good

By MVL Staff for everyone involved.

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uying a home can be one of the most important decisions a person makes in their lifetime. It’s an extremely involved process that balances getting what you want with what you can afford and reconciling what you’re willing to live without. But after the search is over, and you’ve found what you think will be the perfect home for you and your family, it’s time to make sure the home is in a condition you’re willing to live with. Enter, the home inspection.

According to the National Association of Realtors, nearly 99 percent of realtors recommend buyers to get a home evaluation. Although the inspection is voluntary, it’s usually money well spent. Inspections can uncover all sorts of hidden costs or put a buyer’s mind at ease. Here’s what to expect from a home inspection.

FROM THE SELLER’S POINT OF VIEW It’s time to move on from your house and let someone else have a turn calling it “home”. Chances are you know most of the nuances of your home—that squeaky third stair, the slow dripping faucet in the guest bathroom, the new light fixture you had installed in the kitchen a few years ago—but there could be costly items lurking under the surface that you are NOT aware of. If you don’t take the time to go through the house thoroughly with your real estate agent, or better yet, a home inspector, your selling price could be affected drastically.

While several shows on TV hint at sellers getting a better price for fixing up their place, it may not be in your best interest. You could spend thousands of dollars on updating kitchen cabinets only to find out it doesn’t necessarily add value to the home. Typically speaking though, it can be worth it to fix areas of concern that might have otherwise driven away buyers.

It is typical for the buyer to pay for a home inspection, but here are some points to consider for hiring an inspector before putting your house on the market.

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1. Ethics - Providing a pre-inspection assures the buyer that no major surprises are in store; while they might not waive their own follow-up inspection, they’ll at least feel more comfortable about placing a bid and you’ll feel better knowing you did the right thing.

2. Time - If a problem is discovered during the pre-inspection you’ll have plenty of time to decide if you want to address it or adjust the selling price of your home accordingly. Waiting until the buyer sends their inspector might just leave you a few days. A pre-inspection gives you more time to compare prices and treatment options from a variety of contractors. You may also avoid conceding a huge chunk of change for unpredictable repair costs like mold remediation or structural work.

3. Negotiation Strategy - If you know everything there is know about your home, you’ll be in a better place to firmly negotiate the selling price of it. Getting the pre-inspection will give you insight into what concessions a buyer might request. That allows you to set your asking price accordingly and find out whether or not you’re in a position to play hardball.

R FROM THE BUYER’S POINT OF VIEW

Restoration/Real Estate

Locally owned and operated for over 25 years

You’ve searched high and low for the perfect home and now it’s within your reach, just a few last hurdles and you can call yourself a homeowner. But don’t rush the process. Listen to your Realtor, spend a couple of hundred of dollars and get the home inspection.

1. What is a home inspection and what will be inspected?

According to the American Society of Home Inspectors a home inspection is “an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.”

2. Does the inspector have the final word?

No. Houses can’t pass or fail an inspection. An inspection simply informs the buyer and seller of potential problems. It doesn’t mean you should or should not purchase the home, but it does give you information so you know what you’re buying. If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.

3. Should I go along to the home inspection?

Time is really valuable to most of us and it’s understandable that you may not want to follow some person around as they peer into every nook and crevice. However, if you have the time, it is highly recommended that you tag along during your inspection. If the inspector uncovers several issues, they’ll be able to explain them to you on the spot as well as answer any questions you may have along the way.

4. How do I find a reputable inspector?

Your real estate agent likely has some inspectors he/she works with, but always do your homework first. The least expensive inspector may not have a lot of experience, qualifications, or technical savvy. Always ask about licensing, professional affiliations and credentials, and whether the inspector carries errors and omissions insurance.

Restoring Peace of Mind During A Loss

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235 6th Ave W. | Twin Falls, ID 83301 | 208-734-2222

Selling Southern Idaho Since 1974!

Robert Jones Realty, Inc. is your Southern Idaho Real Estate source for residential, farms, ranches, dairies, recreational, commercial and various types of building lots.

Referrals always Welcome!

We specialize in tax deferred exchanges!

Robert Jones Broker CRS, GRI, ALC, EMS 208-308-6060

Mark E. Jones Associate Broker GRI 208-308-3030

Jeri Henley Realtor 208-316-2066

Wayne Allen Realtor 208-431-5916

Robert Meyers Realtor 208-731-2219

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208-733-0404 www.rjrealty.com 1766 Addison Avenue East, Twin Falls, ID 83301 M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 133

The UPSide of Local

Shipping and Printing

You may think of the UPS Store primarily for shipping, but this Twin Falls stronghold does so much more.

By Amber Daley Photos by Summer Brander

Fact: UPS is the largest Next Day Air® package and ground

shipper in the world. And what that means for you, the consumer, is that the deliveries of your time-sensitive packages are backed by a solid guarantee from an international leader in the shipping industry.

But it also means that, when you shop—and ship—via your local The UPS Store, you are a part of the greater UPS organization, and the store’s rates are dictated accordingly.

Therefore your shipping is not subject to price increases simply because the local market will tolerate it. “With UPS shipping price controls, you will always get the actual shipping price, not a marked up price,” says The UPS Store owner, Charles Reigh.

In addition to offering its customers full service packing and shipping capabilities, The UPS Store provides mailbox services (for winter travelers, landlords, families in transition, home business etc.) along with printing and wonderful greeting cards.

Recently, The UPS Store has even opened a brand new state of the art online print website (www.upsstoreprint. com/3386). On this site you can design personalized business cards, stationery, envelopes, door hangers, flyers, booklets and much more at very competitive prices. But there’s a whole lot more to this UPS Store than just professional services—printing, packing, and shipping: this is a local store with heart.

The UPS Store supports the Marine Corps Reserve’s “Toys for Tots®” program, helping to raise thousands of dollars for children’s Christmas toys every year. The store has also contributed and raised substantial funds from local shippers to benefit veterans of the Idaho National Guard’s 116th Cavalry Brigade Combat Team, helping Idaho veterans living right here in the Magic Valley.

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Shipping

“With UPS shipping price controls, you will always get the actual price, not a marked up market price,” — The UPS Store owner, Charles Reigh Charles, along with his wife “Ling” give back to their community because they are invested in its health and well being—illustrated by their philanthropic efforts and their purchase of the store in the first place. “We bought this store in 2005 from a local family and have tried to give the best customer service and prices to our community these past nine years,” says Charles. So it only makes sense that hearing from customers “job well done” is the greatest reward for their efforts.

And there’s an added benefit to fulfilling these services with a company based here in the Magic Valley.

“We are locally owned and operated,” says Charles. “When you print, pack, ship and have a mailbox here, your money stays here.” By supporting a store that has given back to its community over the years, not only do patrons help maintain a strong local economy, they indeed do send accolades to a generous local family business. Come see for yourself!

The UPS Store is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday It is located at 148 Blue Lakes Blvd. North, in Twin Falls For more information, visit us at: www.theupsstore.com/3386 or call 208-736-3800 You can also find the store’s print website at: www.upsstoreprint.com/3386

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Trucker Talk:

The Good, the Bad, and the Hungry Two professional truck drivers discuss the pros and cons of their lives on the road.

By Amber Daley Photos by Summer Brander

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f you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to sit behind the wheel of a multi-ton monstrosity, Merle Haggard perhaps sang it best: “It takes a special breed to be a truck drivin’ man / And a steady hand to pull that load behind.”

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It does indeed take a special breed to fulfill the responsibilities associated with a career in the trucking industry. In addition to workplace stress due to long hours away from home, an occasionally volatile industry has sometimes meant truck drivers are left without compensation if their employers go out of business—and it happens often. For Lucky Koyle, a semi-retired truck driver and instructor, it’s no different. He has driven trucks for 55 years and has worked for about 40 different companies, many of which are no longer in operation.

Aside from a potential lack of job security, a demanding work schedule, and steady pressure from employers, being on the road nearly every day can take its toll on a truck driver’s health, too.

Just like white collar, corporate careers mean long, sedentary days of sitting in an office chair, extended hours in a truck’s bucket seat—and the availability of fast food—aren’t easy on the waistline, either. That’s partly why Koyle is a self-professed proponent of healthy eating and endorses exercise whenever possible.

job is one way to see the country—and meet some new friends along the way. “I get to greet new people almost every day,” he says, adding that it’s the people he meets that make it all worthwhile. And the scenery can’t be beat, either. “The view in my cubicle changes every five minutes,” Ulrich says. “And of course I carry my golf clubs.”

For family men like Koyle, it was an absolute must that he assemble “a support team,” a band of friends and family members at home who could be called upon in case of emergencies—or even when appliances stop working. “You have to have a very special person in

“A lot of truck stops are starting to put in exercise rooms for drivers to use because there is obesity in the industry. The old truck stops used to have sit-down restaurants, but now there is only fast food—and we all know how that puts the weight on people,” he says. “Now imagine a truck driver having to eat it three or four times a day.”

To counteract the effects of an unhealthy lifestyle, Koyle encourages his peers and up-and-comers to stay active. He seems as knowledgeable about personal fitness as he is about trucking. “I used to park my truck and jump rope, or I would go on walks,” he says.

“I’d do anything to keep myself healthy.”

Work-related challenges don’t just wreak havoc on the body either; many truckers agree that the industry takes its toll on personal relationships, particularly in the romance department. Even if a driver’s significant other can handle the stress and discomfort that come with frequent separation from his or her partner, if the couple has children together, that adds further complexity to the family dynamic. “It’s not an easy life,” says Koyle. “So you’d better have a secure life at home because in this industry, you’re gone a lot. You miss kids’ birthdays, baseball games, dance recitals… But you do what you have to do to make a living.”

your life if you’re 500 to 1,000 miles from home and the toilet breaks,” he says. “I have a sweetheart as a wife now,” adds Koyle. “We’ve been married 25 years. She came out and drove with me for a number of years, and she can drive a truck as good as I can.”

The gig ain’t all bad, however. For truckers like Mike Ulrich, employed by Truscott Trucking in Twin Falls, feeling respected and being treated as a valued employee makes the sacrifices well worth it. Not to mention, the

For Koyle, the paybacks are great. “I raised six girls driving a truck,” he says. “I own a small ranch here in Albion and it was all paid for with the truck. The industry has been good to me.”

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Think trucking might be for you? The College of Southern Idaho (CSI) has partnered with Sage Schools to offer a comprehensive truck-driving program available through the school. If you’d like to know more about the program, contact Sandy Taylor, the school’s director, at (208) 933-2346 or by email at csi@sageschools.com. You can also visit 315 Falls Avenue, Room 107C in Twin Falls or find the school online at www.sageschools.com.

What to Know When Sharing the Road Both Ulrich and Koyle estimate that, in the decades they’ve been driving professionally, they’ve each clocked several million miles. And all that time on the road means truckers have more driving experience than most typical motorists.

But despite differences in driving styles and vehicle characteristics, truck drivers and the driving public can share the roads peaceably.

“We’re not out here to tie up traffic; we’re doing our job,” Koyle says. Overall, it’s important to remember that all motorists—whether behind the wheel of a passenger vehicle or a semi—can potentially get distracted. “Truck drivers are human just like you and me,” he says. “They have the same pressures as the driving public, and maybe even things going on at home.”

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Here are additional suggestions for navigating the roadways safely when encountering semi-trucks: Be seen. “If we can’t see you, we don’t know you’re there,” says Ulrich.

Avoid cutting off a truck driver. When operating an 80,000-pound truck at 65 miles per hour, it will take a truck driver almost 400 feet to stop his vehicle. “Motorists need to give truck drivers plenty of room and not crowd them, because it takes two to three times the distance to stop as it does a car,” Koyle says.

Don’t hang out in a truck’s blind spots, or “no-zones.” Says Ulrich, “Stay away from the front end and the driver’s side drive tires. Also, steer clear of the passenger side’s steer tire, and do not tailgate.”

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4 Magic Valley Locations to Serve You TWIN FALLS

421 Blue Lakes Blvd N. • 208-734-7555

TWIN FALLS NORTH

389 Pole Line Rd. • 208-733-1211

JEROME

1848 S. Lincoln Ave. • 208-324-8946

BUHL

1241 Burley Ave. • 208-543-4082

TIRES • WHEELS • BATTERIES • BRAKES • SHOCKS • ALIGNMENTS SUDDEN SERVICE • CONVENIENT CREDIT • WARRANTIES IN WRITING M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 139

Why I love the Magic Valley Scott Jensen: I love the Magic Valley because this is where I was born and raised.

I enjoy the rich agricultural history. Also, working for Freightliner of Idaho right off Interstate 84, I meet many interesting people. But most of all, I love living here with my wife, Ileta, the love of my life.

Chandra Carr: I love the Magic Valley for many reasons. One of the most important though is my deep family roots here. My grandfather is a farmer and has acreage south of town where I grew up. I never appreciated the beauty as a kid, but now I am in awe of the opportunity and quality of life the Magic Valley has to offer. I was able to follow my dream of growing my own flowers, and open my own store in the heart of downtown Twin Falls. It is so rich in history!

My grandmother used to work at the Orpheum Theater, my mom at the old Paris, and now I go to work everyday just a few doors down. There are good people here that really want support the arts, culture, and natural beauty that surround us. The Magic Valley is truly my home.

Tonja Lee-Valdez : The Magic Valley is truly a magical place to not only raise a family but also start a business.

We have created lifelong friendships here and I was blessed to start my spa business right here in the Magic Valley.

The residents of this not-so-sleepy little town are warm and supportive of families and local businesses, all with a tremendous sense of pride! From the canyon views to the vibrant sunsets, the beauty of this area is a force to be reckoned with.

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Matthew Brander: I love the Magic Valley for it’s natural beauty, hometown feel wherever you go, local and unique shopping experiences and an amazing place to support local businesses.

My company has grown substantially in the last couple years because of the great business owners of Twin Falls and their sense of “community” and supporting everything LOCAL!! “Ordinary isn’t cool, but the Magic Valley IS”.

Johnathan Castillo: As a “Dreamer” I am proud to be a student at the College of Southern Idaho. Although I spent most of my college career in Teton Valley living with my parents while working full time, I resided in Twin Falls for one semester, thus far. Throughout my studies I have returned to the Magic Valley to work on important school projects. I can firmly say this valley has inspired me to carry on, as I feel that this is one of the most beautiful places in Idaho. The amazing natural scenery which can only be found in the outdoors has given me outstanding confidence to do well in school. I invite you as a reader to enjoy this beautiful place.

Angellita Todriguez: : I love the Magic Valley because it is where I was born and raised. I have all my family here and now I am raising my beautiful daughter here in my hometown. Couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.

Candi Hanchey: I lived in big cities in Washington state and California. When I moved to Idaho after I got engaged to my husband, I had a bit of what people call culture shock. I began a game with my sister called “You Know Your’e In Idaho When…” Here are a few:

You know you’re in Idaho when you drive behind a truck with a license plate that reads MILKEM. You know you’re in Idaho when reviewing a job application you see Cowboy listed as prior employment.

You know you’re in Idaho when receiving directions include “turn left at the corn field, take a right at the hay stack and continue until you see the horses.”

After almost 14 years living in Idaho, I am now proud to say I live in the Magic Valley.

It is the perfect place to raise my five children and operate two home-based businesses with my husband. My game today might sound something like this:

You know you’re in the Magic Valley when you walk into a place of business and they know your name.

You know you’re in the Magic Valley when you can get across town in less than 15 minutes.

You know you’re in the Magic Valley when you feel safe letting your children walk to the park.

The Magic Valley is a family-friendly community – safe, personal and fun.

Now, I just have to get used to the weather.

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Accountants - Business Insurance

Business Listings ACCOUNTANTS

BAIL BONDS

Stevens Pierce & Associates CPAs 320 Main Ave. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.8662 www.twinfallscpa.com Please see our ad on page 60

Eve & Sonia Bail Bonds 401 Gooding St. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.736.0222 Please see our ad on page 37 BANKS

AGRICULTURE INSURANCE

Farmers National Bank 1097 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.7264 www.farmersnatlbank.com Please see our ad on page 39

Aim Insurance Solutions 131 Gooding Street W. Twin Falls, ID 208.944.2727 ARCHERY Advantage Archery 251 Main Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.9878 www.twinfallsarchery.com Please see our ad on page 60 ASSISTED LIVING Heritage Woodstone Assisted Living & Memory Care 622 Filer Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.9064 www.heritagewoodstone.com Learn more on page 16 491 Caswell Ave W Twin Falls, ID 208.734.6062 ATTORNEYS Avery Law 808 Eastland Drive Twin Falls, ID 208.733.3030 www.averybankrupctylaw.com Learn more on page 20 Brian Tanner Law Office 401 Gooding Street N. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.5158 Briantanner.org Learn more on page 24 Rockstahl Law Office 440 Fairfield Street N. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.8810 www.joerockstahl.com Learn more on page 26

890 Shoshone Street E. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.1500 Marky’s Super Tow 1406 Kimberly Road Twin Falls, ID 208.733.1427 Markysautobody2.com AUTO DEALERS NEW & USED Canyon Motors Subaru 794 Falls Ave. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.8860 www.canyonmotors.com Please see our ad on page 31 Middlekauff Ford Lincoln 1243 Blue Lakes Bvld. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.736.2480 www.bigMDirect.com Please see our ad on page 148 AUTOMOTIVE Interstate Batteries 412 Eastland Drive S. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.0896 www.interstatebatteries.com Please see our ad on page 32 Mueller Automotive 2441 Kimberly Road Twin Falls, ID 208.736.3325 www.muellerauto.net Learn more on page 34

AUTOMOTIVE ACCESSORIES

AUTO BODY

Power Plant Car Audio & Accessories

Elite Autobody 21325 Hwy 30 Filer, ID 208.421.0203 Please see our ad on page 31

1819 Kimberly Road Twin Falls, ID 208.737.9912 Please see our ad on page 33

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317 Pole Line Road Twin Falls, ID 208.734.1917 First Federal Bank 383 Shoshone Street N. PO Box 249 Twin Falls, ID 208.733.4222 www.BankFirstFed.com Please see our ad on page 3 148 Eastland Drive Twin Falls, ID 208.737.0792 BOATS Century Motor Sports & Marine 299 Addison Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.5070 www.centurymotorsportsandmarine.com Please see our ad on page 37 BUSINESS INSURANCE Aim Insurance Solutions 131 Gooding Street W. Twin Falls, ID 208.944.2727

Carpet Cleaning - Formalwear

Business Listings Pioneer Federal Credit Union 1439 N. College Road E. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.0814 www.pioneerfcu.org Please see our ad on page 49

CARPET CLEANING Servicemaster 235 Sixth Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.2222 servicemaster.com Summit Restoration Serving the Magic Valley 208.734.5311 www.summitcleanup.com CHIROPRACTOR Sirucek Spine & Injury Center 263 Second Ave. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.5555 twinfallsspineandinjury.com Learn more on page 40 CLOTHING The Brass Monkey 124 Main Ave. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.944.9452 www.brassmonkeyclothing.com Please see our ad on page 61 CRANES Marky’s Super Tow 1406 Kimberly Road Twin Falls, ID 208.733.1427 Markysautobody2.com Learn more on page 46 CREDIT UNIONS Idaho Central Credit Union 649 Pole Line Road Twin Falls, ID 208.733.4777 www.iccu.com Please see our ad on page 2 2193 Addison Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.4777 110 Overland Ave. Burley, ID 208.678.2046

Jerome Branch 1865 N. Lincoln Jerome, ID 208.324.8553 Gooding Branch 1624 Main Gooding, ID 208.934.4414 DENTISTS First Choice Dental Paul Romriell, DMD 142 River Vista Place Twin Falls, ID 208.734.7246 Learn more on page 50 Mark W. Wright, DDS, PA 414 Shoup Ave. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.1345 www.markwrightdds.com Learn more on page 54 Sawtooth Dental Gary Dixon, DDS Stephen Dixon, DDS Eric Thomas, DDS 1437 Park View Drive Twin Falls, ID 208.733.4515 Sawtoothdental.com Learn more on page 56 DOG GROOMING Doggy Styles 520 Main Ave. S. Twin Falls, ID 208.404.8498 www.tfdoggystyles.vpweb.com Please see our ad on page 59

EDUCATION College of Southern Idaho 315 Falls Ave. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.9554 www.csi.edu Please see our ad on page 62 FINANCIAL PLANNERS Edward Jones www.edwardjones.com Please see our ad on page 69 Laura Drake Insurance & Financial Services 401 Gooding Street N. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.7227 www.LDINS.net Please see our ad on page 61 FIREPLACES Brizee Heating & Air Conditioning 227 Second Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.2624 www.brizee.com FLOORING Idaho Carpet 305 Shoshone Street S. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.2251 Idahocarpet.co Please see our ad on page 59 FORMALWEAR Christa’s Dress Shoppe & Tuxedo 202 Shoshone Street E. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.5177 www.christas.biz Please see our ad on page 61 Tuxedos Now & Gowns Forever 1159 Addison Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.4055 www.tuxedosnow.com Please see our ad on page 73

M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 143

Health Care - Janitorial Services

Business Listings HOME IMPROVEMENT Brizee Heating & Air Conditioning 227 Second Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.2624 www.brizee.com Please see our ad on page 88 NeuScapes Property Maintenance Serving the Magic Valley 208.420.2346 www.neuscapesidaho.com Please see our ad on page 89 Precision Heating 2016 Floral Ave. Twin Falls, ID 208.280.2061 Precisionheatingtwinfallsid.com Please see our ad on page 80 HEALTH CARE Heritage Woodstone Assisted Living & Memory Care 622 Filer Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.9064 www.heritagewoodstone.com HEATING Brizee Heating & Air Conditioning 227 Second Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.2624 www.brizee.com Precision Heating 2016 Floral Ave. Twin Falls, ID 208.280.2061 Precisionheatingtwinfallsid.com HOME BUILDER Premier Homes LLC Serving the Magic Valley 208.410.1003 www.premierhomescom Premier Tile & Building Serving the Magic Valley 208.410.1003 HOME CARE Brightstar Care 131 Main Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.8000 www.brightstarcare.com Please see our ad on page 75

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Premier Homes LLC Serving the Magic Valley 208.410.1003 Please see our ad on page 81 Premier Woodworking 2010 Floral Ave. Twin Falls, ID 208.731.4005 www.Premierwoodworkingonline.com Please see our ad on page 83 Quality Truss & Lumber 21005 Hwy 30 Filer, ID 208.326.3131 www.qualitytrussandlumber.net Learn more on page 90 Rick J. Roofing 2777 Suncrest Circle Twin Falls, ID 208.490.0974 rickjroofing.com Please see our ad on page 80

Steven S. Miller Construction 1201 Falls Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.308.5435 Stevensmillerhomes.com Learn more on page 76 Viking Concrete & Excavation 1201 Falls Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.329.9120 www.vikingconcreteandex.com Please see our ad on page 89 HOTELS Best Western Sawtooth Inn & Suites 2653 S. Lincoln Ave. Jerome, ID 208.324.9200 www.bestwestern.com Please see our ad on page 95

INSURANCE Aim Insurance Solutions 131 Gooding Street W. Twin Falls, ID 208.944.2727 Please see our ad on page 97 INTERNET SERVICE DIGIS Idaho 800.92.DIGIS (34447) www.digis.net Learn more on page 98 JANITORIAL SERVICES NeuScapes Property Maintenance Serving the Magic Valley 208.420.2346 www.neuscapesidaho.com

Kidney Physician - Restaurants

Business Listings KIDNEY PHYSICIAN

REAL ESTATE

Magic Valley Kidney Center 350 N. Haven Drive Twin Falls, ID 208.733.0422 www.magicvalleykidney.com Please see our ad on page 97

Nelson Realty, LLC 200 3rd Ave. E. 208.734.3930 www.NelsonRealtyID.com Please see our ad on page 59

LAWN CARE

PHYSICAL THERAPISTS

NeuScapes Property Maintenance Serving the Magic Valley 208.420.2346 www.neuscapesidaho.com

CPR Center for Physical Rehabilitation 754 N. College Road Twin Falls, ID 208.734.5313 www.cprtherapy.org Learn more on page 112

MAXILLOFACIAL PROSTHETICS First Choice Dental Paul Romriell, DMD 142 River Vista Place Twin Falls, ID 208.734.7246 MOVING & STORAGE Bekins—Ford Transfer & Storage 217 Wall Street Twin Falls, ID 208.733.5274 www.fordtransferandstorage.com Please see our ad on page 103 OPTICAL Vision Source—Eastland Vision Clinic 1067 Eastland Drive Twin Falls, ID 208.733.1944 www.eastlandvisionclinic.com Please see our ad on page 104 ORTHODONTICS Braces R Us Orthodontics Troy Alan Williams DDS, MDS 1431 N. Fillmore Street Twin Falls, ID 208.737.0006 www.bracesrustf.net Learn more on page 106 PHOTOGRAPHY Summer Brander Photography 160 Main Ave. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.731.6713 www.summerbranderphotography.com Learn more on page 108

PHYSICIANS Advanced Foot & Ankle Matt Wettstein, DPM 476 Cheney Drive W. Twin Falls, ID 208.731.6321 www.idahofoot.com Learn more on page 118 1263 Bennett Ave. Burley, ID 208.312.4646 Intermountain Spine & Orthopaedics David Christensen, MD 1411 Falls Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.732.0067 www.intermountainspineortho.com Learn more on page 122 Magic Valley Kidney Center 350 N. Haven Drive Twin Falls, ID 208.735.3914 www.magicvalleykidney.com PRINTING Standard Printing Solutions 140 2nd Ave. N. 208.733.1449 standard@standardprt.com Please see our ad on page 60

Robert Jones Realty 1766 Addison Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.0404 www.rjrealty.com Please see our ad on page 133 REMODELING Premier Homes LLC Serving the Magic Valley 208.410.1003 www.premierhomes.com Premier Tile & Building Serving the Magic Valley 208.410.1003 Summit Restoration Serving the Magic Valley www.summitcleanup.com REPAIRS The Repair Shop 612 Main Ave. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.731.0426 Please see our ad on page 59 RESTAURANTS Anchor Bistro and Bar 334 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.6566 anchorbistro.com Please see our ad on page 126 Brickhouse Restaurant. Nightlife. Venue.

516 Hansen Street S. Twin Falls, ID 208.736.6264 tfbrickhouse.com Learn more on page 124

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE NeuScapes Property Maintenance Serving the Magic Valley 208.420.2346 www.neuscapesidaho.com PROSTHODONTICS First Choice Dental Paul Romriell, DMD 142 River Vista Place Twin Falls, ID 208.734.7246 M ag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014 | 145

Restaurants - Towing

Business Listings River Rock Grill 1824 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.0722 RiverRockGrillTwinFalls.com Please see our ad on page 129

Canyon Crest Dining & Event Center 330 Canyon Crest Drive Twin Falls, ID 208.733.9392 www.canyoncrestdining.com Learn more on page 125 Gertie’s Brick Oven Cookery 602 2nd Ave. S. Twin Falls, ID 208.736.9110 gertiesboc.com Please see our ad on page 127 Idaho Joe’s 598 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.9403 www.idahojoestwinfalls.com Please see our ad on page 126 Janitzio Mexican Restaurant 2096 Kimberly Rd. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.3855 www.janitziomexican.com Please see our ad on page 129 Kiwi’s Fish-n-Chips 1007 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.1535 Please see our ad on page 126 La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant 1288 Blue Lakes Blvd.

Twin Falls, ID 208.734.0685 Please see our ad on page 127 Pho TaKi/Little India Restaurant 404 Addison Ave. W. (inside Asian Food Market) Twin Falls, ID 208.736.7111 Please see our ad on page 127 The Pocket 1532 Kimberly Rd. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.9676 twinfallspocket.com Please see our ad on page 128 146 | Mag i c Va l l e y l i f e 2014

Rock Creek 200 Addison Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.4154 www.rockcreektwinfalls.com Please see our ad on page 129

SEWING

Scooter’s Chillin’ and Grillin’ 137 2nd Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.969.9940 Please see our ad on page 128

Twin Falls Sewing Center 157 Main Ave. W Twin Falls, ID 208.733.3344 www.tfsewing.com Please see our ad on page 61

Teodora Caffe Italiano 1563 Fillmore Street Twin Falls, ID 208.735.5039 www.TeodoraCaffe.com Please see our ad on page 128 RESTORATION Servicemaster 235 Sixth Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.2222 servicemaster.com Please see our ad on page 133 Summit Restoration Serving the Magic Valley 208.734.5311 www.summitrest.com Learn more on page 130 SENIOR LIVING Heritage Woodstone Assisted Living & Memory Care 622 Filer Ave. W. Twin Falls, ID 208.733.9064 www.heritagewoodstone.com

SHIPPING The UPS Store 148 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.736.3800 theupsstore.com/3386 Learn more on page 134 SPORTING GOODS Advantage Archery 251 Main Ave. E. Twin Falls, ID 208.735.9878 www.twinfallsarchery.com TATTOOS Heart & Dagger Tattoo 434 Main Ave. S. Twin Falls, ID 208.995.8282 Please see our ad on page 60 TILING Premier Tile and Building Serving Magic Valley 208.410.1003 TIRES Les Schwab Tire Center 421 Blue Lakes Blvd. N. Twin Falls, ID 208.734.7555 www.lesschwab.com Please see our ad on page 139 TOWING Marky’s Super Tow 1406 Kimberly Road Twin Falls, ID 208.733.1427 Markysautobody2.com

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aybe my dad’s love of cars rubbed off on me because he had a service station. He was my hero and cars were our thing. I would climb into bed at night, surrounded by all my toy cars, and dream of the day I would be old enough to have my own.

My car dreams went from being a race car driver (mud flying, people cheering, circling the track while holding the checkered flag) to the freedom of going where I wanted, when I wanted.

And there were the girls.

How cool would I be pulling up in my brand new Ford Mustang!

Cars and trucks have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and it seems like it took forever to go from dreams to reality. As a Ford, Lincoln, and Honda dealer for over 25 years now, I’ve had the opportunity to share my love of automobiles with thousands. I’ve listened to their stories and watched their dreams come true.

I promised myself when I first got into the car business that I’d make owning a new car as easy as possible. That’s why I promise to give my customers a lowest price guarantee, a full return policy, and up to a 150,000 mile warranty on every used vehicle sold.

I also let them decide what their trade in is worth. My dad used to tell me, “there’s no difference between a big promise and a little promise, they both define who you are.”

Now my son works with me, and he has his own dreams, but we have cars in common. I hope I’ve passed on to him the power of a dream and the importance of a promise. I’m living proof that a promise to yourself can be a dream come true.

Gregg Middlekauff and his first car.

Blue Lakes i c Va l l e yBlvd. l i f e 2014N. • Twin Falls • 208.736.2480 • www.bigmdirect.com 148 | Mag