April 10 - 16, 2019 by The Weekly Sun

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APRIL 10 - 16, 2019 | V O L . 1 2 - N O . 1 5 | W W W . T H E W E E K L Y S U N . C O M

Crime & Courts News Former Bellevue Deputy Indicted For Rape Of Child Under 16

Environment News Warm Springs Avalanche Damages Two Homes

Idaho News Governor Little Takes A Big Stand

“Spring is when you feel like whistling, even with a shoe full of slush.” ~Doug Larson

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For information about this photo, see “On The Cover” on page 3. Photo credit: Steve Snyder

KINDERGARTEN AND PRESCHOOL

REGISTRATION

Alturas, Bellevue, and Hailey Elementary Schools

Hemingway STEAM School

Preschool and Kindergarten Registration Wednesday, April 10 11:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Community Campus

Kindergarten Registration Wednesday, April 10 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at Hemingway School

Immunizations available! 1:00-5:00 p.m. Must bring immunization record and insurance card. $20 one shot, $40 two shots, $60 three + shots (208) 578-5000

Preschool Registration Thursday, April 11 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at Hemingway School

Blaine County School District #61

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T H E W E E K LY S U N • A P R I L 10-16, 2019

NEWS CRIME & COURTS

CONTROVERSIAL FORMER BELLEVUE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CHARGED WITH RAPE OF CHILD UNDER 16 Rene Rodriguez is facing life in prison if found guilty

“We mutually parted ways,” Gunter said. On Monday, Lincoln County Prosecuting Attorney E. even felony counts, two of them for raping a child Scott Paul announced that Rodriguez had resigned from under 16 years old, were alleged against Lincoln his post as sheriff, effective immediately. County Sheriff Rene Rodriguez in Blaine County Undersheriff Steve Phillips—who has been serving Magistrate Court, Monday, April 8. If found guilty for as interim sheriff during a now 60-day leave of abthe crimes, Rodriguez could spend up to life in prison sence by Rodriguez—was named interim sheriff. Linfor lewd acts that allegedly took place coln County Commissioner Rebecca from 2005 to 2014 across Blaine, Je“After reviewing Wood said Rodriguez requested a 30rome, Lincoln and Twin Falls counties. his resignation, day leave of absence with pay when it The seven charges include one count known by the county that he Lincoln County became of felony sexual abuse of a child under the was under investigation. It was grant16, four counts of lewd conduct with a Commissioners accepted ed. Wood said Rodriguez requested a resignation and second 30-day leave of absence with child under 16 and two counts of rape his of a child under 16. declared the office of pay, but the county denied it. He was Rodriguez has not yet made a plea Lincoln County Sheriff instead given a 30-day leave without regarding the charges. His next court pay at that time. vacant.” date is April 15 in Blaine County 5th In accordance with Idaho law, the District Court. He is being held on a county has officially notified the LinE. Scott Paul $500,000 bond. coln County Republican Central ComLincoln County Rodriguez was a controversial figure mittee to request a recommendation to Prosecuting attorney in the Wood River Valley, specifically fill the sheriff vacancy. In the Novemin Bellevue where he was a Marshal’s ber 2016 election, Rodriguez ran unOffice deputy from 2008 to 2013. Several Bellevue resi- opposed and as the Republican nominee for sheriff, but dents have expressed to The Weekly Sun concerns about barely edged out two write-in candidates. his demeanor while conducting his duties as a law enThe committee has 15 days to present three names to forcement officer in the city. Rodriguez left that posi- the county commissioners, then the commissioners will tion in March of 2013 in what Hailey Police Chief Jeff have 15 days to make a decision. A special meeting of Gunter said was a “personnel matter” that could not be the county commissioners will take place at 9:30 a.m. disclosed, but was “nothing criminal” in nature. on April 29 to name the next sheriff and make an anBY ERIC VALENTINE

Lincoln County Sheriff Rene Rodriguez. Photo credit: Blaine County Sheriff’s Office

nouncement to the public. That person will be in office until the next election.

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T H E W E E K LY S U N •

THE WEEKLY SUN CONTENTS

REGISTRATION

APRIL 10 - 16, 2019

KINDERGARTEN AND PRESCHOOL

The Idaho State Fiddle Championships will return to the Wood River High School Performing Arts Theater for its two days of competition and entertainment. For a story, see page 12. Photo credit: Ernie Sites

THIS WEEK A P R I L 1 0 - 1 6 , 2019 | VOL. 12 NO. 15

Nonprofit News

Camp Rainbow Gold Buys Soldier Mtn. Ranch & Resort

Commentary

Calendar

Award Winning Columns, Guest Commentary

Stay In The Loop On Where To Be

ON THE COVER

A speedflyer zooms down Carbonate Mountain in Hailey on Wednesday, April 3. Mountain Humane’s new facility can be seen in the background. Photo credit: Steve Snyder Local artists & photographers interested in seeing their art on our cover page should email submissions to: mandi@ theweeklysun.com (photos should be high resolution and include caption info such as who or what is in the photo, date and location).

Alturas, Bellevue, and Hailey Elementary Schools

Hemingway STEAM School

Preschool and Kindergarten Registration Wednesday, April 10 11:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Community Campus

Kindergarten Registration Wednesday, April 10 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at Hemingway School

Immunizations available! 1:00-5:00 p.m. Must bring immunization record and insurance card. $20 one shot, $40 two shots, $60 three + shots

Preschool Registration Thursday, April 11 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at Hemingway School

Go to blaineschools.org to find a registration checklist and to learn more about the BCSD Preschool and Kindergarten Programs. Students entering Kindergarten or Preschool MUST be age five (K) or four (Pre-K) on or before 9/1/2019

Blaine Blaine District #61 #61 Blaine County County School School District District #61

(208) 578-5000 www.blaineschools.org

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NEWS IN BRIEF Blaine County School District Superintendent Makes Recommendation For New Hailey Principal Blaine County School District Superintendent Dr. GwenCarol Holmes has announced her selection for Hailey Elementary School principal. Her recommendation to the board of trustees will be to hire Ms. Toni Boush, who is currently the elementary principal at the American School of Brasilia, Brasil.

THE WEEKLY SUN STAFF 13 W. Carbonate St. • P.O. Box 2711 Hailey, Idaho 83333 Phone: 208.928.7186 Fax: 208.928.7187 AD SALES Brennan Rego • 208.720.1295 • brennan@theweeklysun.com NEWS EDITOR Eric Valentine • news@theweeklysun.com ARTS & EVENTS, SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Dana DuGan • calendar@theweeklysun.com COPY EDITOR Patty Healey STAFF REPORTERS • Aimée Durand • Hayden Seder • Emilee Struss news@theweeklysun.com DESIGN DIRECTOR Mandi Iverson • mandi@theweeklysun.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN Chris Seldon • production@theweeklysun.com ACCOUNTING Shirley Spinelli • 208.928.7186 • accounting@theweeklysun.com PUBLISHER & EDITOR Brennan Rego • 208.720.1295 • publisher@theweeklysun.com DEADLINES Display & Community Bulletin Board Ads — Monday @ 1pm brennan@theweeklysun.com • bulletin@theweeklysun.com Calendar Submissions — Friday @ 5pm calendar@theweeklysun.com www.TheWeeklySun.com Published by Idaho Sunshine Media, LLC

“Ms. Toni Boush was the interview committee’s unanimous top choice for the new Hailey Elementary principal,” Holmes said. “Ms. Boush brings a positive, high-energy leadership style and a passion for inclusive diversity. She has worked in both the Eagle and Roaring Fork school districts in Colorado and understands the dynamics and beauty of mountain communities.” Boush is a 28-year veteran of the education world. She was the elementary principal at Ruamrudee International School in Bangkok, Thailand, for six years. For the past three years, she has been a principal at the American School of Brasilia, Brasil. Previous to her international work, Boush was the middle school principal in Minturn, Colorado, a part of the Eagle Colorado School District, for nine years. She was assistant principal for two years in the Roaring Fork School District, Colorado. Prior to entering administration, Boush was an elementary teacher. Boush’s selection as the final candidate came after an extensive interview process that included Hailey Elementary parents, staff, and district administrators. The superintendent’s recommendation was scheduled for consideration at last night’s school board meeting. If approved by the board, Boush will begin her contract midsummer. Follow The Weekly Sun for an update on this story in our next issue.

Idaho Insurance Regulators Make Makina Health Shut Down The state’s insurance watchdog has issued a cease and desist order to Makina Health for soliciting health insurance clients without being properly licensed to do so in Idaho. The Department of Insurance order immediately prevents Makina Health or any entity with the word “Makina” in its name from engaging in the business of transacting insurance in the state of Idaho. Makina operates as a private purchasing cooperative based out of Texas. Acting on a tip from the public, state regulators began investigating Makina this past December following an allegation the company was soliciting self-funded healthcare plans in the Gem State. The company maintained a website touting health plans labeled “fantastic options for the value.” Idaho law provides that self-funded plans, including multiple employer welfare arrangements (MEWAs) that operate within Idaho, must be registered with the Department of Insurance. Makina allegedly violated this code by acting as a MEWA in the state of Idaho. “We have a responsibility to protect Idaho consumers by making sure the insurance producers with whom they do business are properly licensed under the Idaho Insurance Code,” said Department of Insurance Director Dean Cameron. Makina may file a request for a hearing in this matter.

Mountain Humane Welcomes New Board Members And Officers Three new longtime philanthropic volunteers have been added to the Mountain Humane board of directors. They are Linda Potter, Rita Golleher and Maggie Sturdevant, all longtime supporters of the shelter. They join existing directors Joseph Begovich, Christine Ferguson, Bobbi Hunt, Sally Onetto, Phil Usher, secretary Elizabeth Mathieu, treasurer Renee Faltings, vice president Dan Drackett and president Jan Main. “We are truly grateful to the commitment and service of our board members,” JoAnne Dixon, executive director, said. “Without their leadership and support, Mountain Humane would not be able to fulfill our ambitious goal of making Idaho a no-kill state.” Mountain Humane officially moved into its new animal welfare facility earlier this year, doubling the number of pets housed and continuing the current trend of increased adoptions. As the first no-kill shelter in the state of Idaho, Mountain Humane is joining forces with regional shelters to achieve the so-called No-Kill Idaho goal by 2025.

T H E W E E K LY S U N •

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Former Students File Federal Civil Rights Lawsuit Against School District

A federal civil rights lawsuit was filed today by Dakota King Hutton and Emily Thayer, two former students of Wood River High School (WRHS) in Hailey. The lawsuit alleges violations of the students’ constitutionally protected rights to free speech by the Blaine County School District (BCSD) and several named administrators, including BCSD Superintendent GwenCarol Holmes. At issue for Hutton is an opinion poll she conducted when she was a senior at WRHS. She asked 30 random students and staff about, among other things, the impact Superintendent GwenCarol Holmes had on the district. According to Hutton’s account, the poll was deleted We have been made because the school district aware of the lawsuit had claimed it violated Idaho and our attorneys are law as it was a “professional reviewing it.” evaluation” “I was shocked and frusHeather Crocker trated when I learned that School district spokesperson several administrators quickly moved to delete my assignment from the school’s Google Drive account,” said Hutton. “The questions, asking about how well a leader is doing, are the kind you see in polls all the time and they seemed very appropriate for a class on government. I ended up receiving a ‘no grade’ on the assignment, and I had to meet with the principal and several other school officials.” At issue for Thayer is a monthly report she submitted in the fall of 2017 to the school board in her capacity as student body representative. In the report, Thayer noted that students wanted the board to reconsider their decision on the 2018 graduation date. According to Thayer’s account, the superintendent redacted that portion of her report. "We have been made aware of the lawsuit and our attorneys are reviewing it," school district spokesperson Heather Crocker said. When the controversy arose last year, the school board sent a one-page letter to Hutton refuting some of her claims and offering “guidance and support” if she wanted to revise her survey.

A Monday afternoon avalanche caused extensive structural damage to Board Ranch homes. Photo credit: Blaine County Sheriff’s Office

WEATHER CONDITIONS TRIGGER AVALANCHE IN WARM SPRINGS

Warning: There could be more to come

BY HAYDEN SEDER

n Monday, April 8, an avalanche at Warm Springs and Whipsaw Lane in the Board Ranch neighborhood of Warm Springs in Ketchum hit two homes and narrowly missed a third, causing extensive damage to both buildings. No one was hurt, as both homes were vacant. The Sawtooth Avalanche Center warns that avalanche danger is high due to recent rain and multiple days of above-freezing temperatures. The center advises staying off of and out from below all steep slopes. How It All Went Down The Ketchum Fire Department received a call at 2:01 p.m. on Monday about the avalanche. Assistant Fire Chief Tom Ancona was the first on the scene and established Board Ranch Command. He was soon followed by Ketchum Engine 1 with four personnel on board with all necessary avalanche equipment, including snowshoes, poles and personal beacons. “They came prepared to do a rescue inside the buildings,” said Tom Bowman, Ketchum’s interim fire chief. “At the time of dispatch, we were unsure whether there were occupants or not. Our initial reports said not, but we never take that first report as gospel. We always confirm on our own.” As Engine 1 rolled out to the scene, Ketchum Rural Engine 2 and 3 responded with paid, on-call volunteers who were directed to Ketchum Station 1 to stand by until Ancona could make an assessment. Ancona spoke with a caretaker of one of the houses, who confirmed that no one was in the house. The caretaker also lives in Board Ranch and said that no one had seen anyone in the second house for months. “We made the decision that this information was good enough—we weren’t going to put our firefighters at risk searching a collapsed building,” Bowman said. After having assessed that the buildings had no one inside, the firefighters then directed their attention to securing the homes’ utilities, including shutting off a leaking propane tank inside one of the houses. After the utilities were turned off, yellow “Do Not Enter” tape was put up across

The week's avalanche was a reminder to prepare for more. Photo credit: Blaine County Sheriff’s Office

the driveways of the homes, ending the extent of the fire department’s response. What To Look Out For A report from the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office said that Warm Springs Road is closed to non-residents at Penny Lake but that school buses are being allowed access. The Sawtooth Avalanche Center has reported other recent wet avalanches and advises that similar slides are likely this week as warm temperatures and rain turn the snowpack to mush. The entire Wood River Valley has been given a 4 (high) avalanche rating by the center. Ketchum and Hailey city officials reported no other flooding or weather-related incidents this past weekend. tws

T H E W E E K LY S U N •

APRIL 10-16, 2019

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The scenic Soldier Mountain Ranch and Resort will become the home of Camp Rainbow Gold. Photo credit: Camp Rainbow Gold

GOLD AT THE END OF THE REAL ESTATE RAINBOW

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After years of seeking a permanent home, Camp Rainbow Gold buys Soldier Mountain Ranch and Resort sibling camps and family retreats, college scholarships and a teen support group. Its programs fter months of searching, the Boise/ are sustained by community fundraising, private Ketchum-based nonprofit that helps chil- donations and volunteer efforts. Camp Rainbow dren with cancer and their families has Gold provides services to more than 400 Idaho found a permanent home. family members, is supported by Camp Rainbow Gold anWe intend to more than 300 volunteers from nounced today its purchase of take this one step across the nation and has been Soldier Mountain Ranch and through the American at a time and be very accredited Resort in Fairfield. The site will Camp Association since 2002. eventually serve as a perma- thoughtful and fiscally Amanda Watson, board presthroughout ident of Camp Rainbow Gold, nent facility for Camp Rainbow responsible Gold’s oncology, sibling and the process.” said they also realize there are family camps. other organizations in the area “We feel confident we have Elizabeth Lizberg with similar needs for a mediconsidered every detail, reExecutive Director cally accommodating camp loviewed every inspection report Camp Rainbow Gold cation. and carefully taken the time to “Creating an Idaho-based ensure the right fit,” said Elizabeth Lizberg, exec- medical camp presents an enormous opportuniutive director. “We’re thrilled for this opportunity ty for Camp Rainbow Gold and other nonprofits to secure the future of Camp Rainbow Gold.” to collaborate,” said Watson. “We have seen and experienced a growing need for medically accesNow Comes The Heavy Lifting sible camp facilities. As part of our master plan, Camp Rainbow Gold said it is now forming a we intend to consider other medical-needs camps, development committee and establishing a master bring them to the table in the planning process and plan for construction and renovation of the proper- make the camp available to other organizations to ty. The organization’s last similar effort involving ensure this camp can have the greatest positive a parcel in the East Fork area north of Hailey was impact on Idaho possible.” met with concern from neighbors before it was After completion of a master plan, Camp Raineventually nixed. bow Gold will launch its capital campaign, “A “We intend to take this one step at a time and be New Place Like Home,” to bring this entire vision very thoughtful and fiscally responsible through- to life and has hired Lonni Leavitt-Barker, a Camp out the process,” Lizberg said. “As such, there is Rainbow Gold family camp participant, longtime not yet an expected move-in date and Camp Rain- volunteer and former board member, as campaign bow Gold will continue to hold camp programs as manager. scheduled at our current leased locations.” For more information about the property and Camp Rainbow Gold is an independent nonprof- how you can get involved, visit www.anewplaceit organization established in the mid- ’80s as a likehome.org. week of camp for a handful of children diagnosed tws with cancer. It has grown to offer oncology camps,

BY ERIC VALENTINE

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NEWS IN BRIEF

It’s Time To Register For Idaho’s Largest Online Fundraiser

A high-profile charitable giving campaign—Idaho Gives 2019— is just one month away. That means nonprofit organizations must register by April 15 in order to receive Idaho Gives donations and share in the nearly $50,000 in award pool prizes that will be given out throughout the day. Last year, over 100 Idaho employers partnered with the Idaho Nonprofit Center to participate in Idaho Gives, which raised over $1.5 million. This year’s goal is to raise $1.7 million for nonprofits around the state. Idaho employers can raise awareness for Idaho Gives in many different ways, such as hanging posters, signs, sending emails, posting on social media, and hosting Idaho Gives events. For more information, please contact Amy Little at alittle@idahononprofits.org or (208) 424-2229.

Idaho Authorities Asked To Require Hunters To Carry Bear Spray

A coalition of organizations today submitted petitions to the Idaho Fish and Game Commission proposing rules to require hunters in grizzly bear habitat to carry bear spray. The proposals follow years of high grizzly bear mortalities due to hunter-related conflicts the groups say do not have to lead to deadly results. Although grizzly bear conflicts with people remain relatively rare, data shows increasing numbers of conflicts between grizzly bears and humans during the fall hunting season as grizzly bears are drawn to gut piles left by hunters or come face to face with hunters in surprise encounters. Researchers and wildlife managers overwhelmingly agree that bear spray is the most effective means of deterring bear attacks and preventing human injury when encounters occur. “Bear spray has been proven time and time again to be the most effective tool in preventing injury to both people and bears in close encounters, including hunting conflicts,” said Bonnie Rice, senior representative for the Sierra Club’s Our Wild America Campaign. “It’s common sense to require hunters to carry bear spray, and agencies should act now to make it mandatory.” Peer-reviewed studies have shown that bear spray is 98 percent effective at preventing human injuries during bear encounters. Firearms are only 50 percent effective.

buyer’s market; if it takes less than six months, a seller’s market. Nationally, the inventory of existing homes has been reduced to approximately 1.5 million houses, which is 10.3 percent lower than a year ago. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, 6 is a 5.7-month supply of new homes currently on the T Hmarket E W E E K LY S U N • A P R I L 10-16, 2019 there in Fiddlers the U.S. of Idaho Concert Night Featured Entertainer Ernie Sites NEWS IDAHO “The Janss Pro-Am Classic celebrates ski racing and mountain culture, and has for 21 years,” said Director of Locally, in February, we had 37 home sales (actual closings) Community Relations Jody Zarkos. Courtesy photo of Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation and there were 109 pending contracts (sales with a loan typically take 30-45 days). There were a total of 398 listings in February, of which six were new listings. So, we have 12.8 months of inventory valley-wide over all price points. Of course, real estate is local, and even within a neighborhood or a price point we find differing levels of inventory and time on market. In certain price points, the existing inventory of homes is CampusRiver Performing Arts Theater at an all-time Community low in the Wood Valley. Friday, Aprilimpact 12, 2019on Doors Open at 6:30 pm is constant Inventory has a direct price. When demand BY YANNA LANTZ Buy Tickets at the Door Cash or Check but inventory is reduced, price tends to increase because the same number of people are trying to buy a smaller-than-normal number nown to the locals of homes. as “the best party on If you are thinking of selling this year, consider that we typically snow,” the 21st annual see the most listings in June-July-August. If you can get ahead of Janss Pro-Am Classic will be the masses, you will have less competition. Another thing to consider is that if mortgage rates increase as predicted, the cost to buy held Thursday to Saturday, is greater and, consequently, buyers can afford less home. March 15-17 on Mountain. BY Bald ERIC VALENTINE Brand New For 2019: The event is the leading Honor the memory of daho’s ballot fundraiser forinitiative the Sunprocess Valleywill remain unANNA MATHIEU changed. Gov. Foundation Brad Little’s your pet in The Weekly Ski Education andpolitical legacy Realtor®, Associate Broker, GRI, MBA may not. is held in memory of former Sun. Thisofyear, we’re This Year’s Winner the Windermere The Valley first-year Republican vetoed a Sun Company ownergovernor Bill offering 20% OFF our Cup for Outstanding Performance highly partisan and contentious bill many conserJanss. Windermere Real Estate/SV, LLC regular obituary rate vative lawmakers in both the Senate and House “A totrue man, (208) 309-1329 for pet obituaries. Pet wanted makerenaissance law and many Democratic leadJanss embodied the beston voters.” The AnnaMathieu@Windermere.com ers had been calling a “revenge obituaries cost just 16¢ 5b-realestate.com qualities decision of the indicates American high-profile the governor may tradition at Janss Pro-Am Classic is the incorporation of A long running per word and include a To subscribe to the Better spirit,” said a SVSEF press be more moderate than many of the Republican costumes. This year’s theme is “Jukebox Heroes, Songs You Know and “Frankie” — 2003-2018 large color photo. Homeowners newsletter: lawmakers in this redto state. release. “Named the 1940 Love.” Photo courtesy by Kat Cannell tinyurl.com/y8koftym Little’s decision effort that would Olympic Alpinethwarted Team, an Janss have—essentially—made it harder to get voter iniremained a lifetime enthusiast To reserve space for an obituary tiatives on ballots.ofSenate have in- be awarded for Best practice runs with team photos Prizes will and supporter skiingBill and1159 ski would or pet obituary, call Brennan creased the number of petition signatures required, racing until his death in 1996. Costume (first through third taken at Warm Spring Lodge. increased the required number of legislative disBecause of Bill – his attributes, place), Fastest Pros, Fastest Handicapping runs will follow at (208) 720-1295. tricts represented in the petitions, and decreased the ethos of and to our Amateurs, Fastest Team, Lee at 10:30 a.m. The annual Gala amount timecommitment to gather signatures. Most Inspirational, Best Dinner and dancing will be community–the Sun Valley Ski Gilman It came on the heels of the November 2018 elecCrash and Education Foundation is proud tion which saw voters approve a ballot initiativeChampionship Team. hosted at the Limelight Room in Off-slope highlights include Sun Valley Resort that evening. host theMedicaid Janss Pro-Am Classic totoexpand coverage to more Idahoans. a hospitality tent at the base of The dual giant slalom race will Democrats said that was no coincidence. Supportin his honor.” ers of the bill said the reconfiguration of requireNEWS IN BRIEF Warm Springs with breakfast be held on Lower Warm Springs During the Janss Proments had to do with properly representing rural at 10:30 a.m. On Saturday March and lunch on both race days, Am Classic, skiers and Idaho Governor Brad Little. Photo credit: State ofceremony, districts that rarely see ballot petitions come their awards snowboarders of all abilities a welcoming cocktail party at 17, with the Sawtooth Society Names New ED Idaho way, since all legislative districts do not need to join forces with a celebrity pro Michel’s Christiania, a gala dinner and post-race party at The Sawtooth Society has named Hailey resident Greg Travelstead as be represented. The bill was seeking to double the at Sun Valley, and an the Warm Springs Headquarters and junior pro to form a team of dinner executive director. Through this summer, Travelstead will continue to amount of legislative districts represented by peti- have asked and introduce yet another bill to silence serve as the Sawtooth Society’s interim stewardship coordinator. après-ski party and barbecue Tent. six, and then go head-to-head tion signatures. the voters.” Travelstead consults with clients on land and water planning issues, “ThethatJanss Pro-Am Classic live music atOne Headquarters’ in a dual giant slalom format “The governor made the best choice with for the peoof the bills required a citizen initiative and has worked for the U.S. Forest Service on trail maintenance. He celebratesa funding ski source. racing and Tent at the basehas of Warm Springs down the Rep. mountain. Racing(D-Boise) ple of Idaho,” Mat Erpelding said. a fiscal note and identifies holds a B.S. degree in geology from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and “It hours is merriment, mischief mountain culture, and has for is handicapped give theallhours and “When the legislaturetoignored “This year especially, the majority has proposed an MBA degree from the University of Colorado. ofparticipants testimony against this legislation, andgovernor magic allseveral rolled bills intowith one inaccurate 21 years, while supporting the opportunity to the or misleading fiscal The Sawtooth Society was formed in 1997 and has since invested was listening.” notes. Citizens should be held to more strict event,” thenotSun Valley Ski Education win, whether they’re World Cup fabulous three-day more than $750,000 in more than 190 recreational-related projects guidelines than the legislators,” Green argued. throughout the area. It also has been instrumental in preserving open statement. Foundation,” said Director of racers or recreational skiers. boasted the SVSEF Monday A New Day space in the scenic Sawtooth Valley and Stanley Basin. Even more the committee voted toJody Racer registration will contentious, take Community Relations However, the Janss IsSpeed Cup For more information, visit sawtoothsociety.org or Greg Travelstead By Monday, Rep. Sage Dixon (R-Ponderey) send the legislation to the House floor without hav-is the is given to the fastest overall place at the Headquarters Tent Zarkos. “What I love to see at (208) 721-7665 or email greg@sawtoothsociety.org. brought four new bills that were formerly differing a public hearing. Although this is just a recomSprings Lodge from comradery people experience after handicapping runs on atupWarm entteam parts of the old bill. By breaking the bill mendation, the Democratic members of the comand to see allinappropriate.” the fun they have noon to p.m., called Thursday, Friday. into separate parts, there could be an element or4 mittee this move “extremely March 15 with light fare and in this short three-day A long running tradition at elements of the bill the governor would not veto. “I am saddened that the members of the event.” comlibations served. Thevoted Opening To public’s learn more about the 21st Janss Pro-Ammembers Classicofisthethe The Democratic committee pointmittee to remove the ability to comPro-Am Rep. Classic, Celebration Pro Presentation of costumes. edincorporation out several procedural rules that were broken. andment on these piecesJanss of legislation,” Johnvisit “We are welltheme past the 4 deadline to insvsef.org or call should (208) 726-4129. will then take Gannon place at (D-Boise) Michel’s said. “The public have This year’s is March “Jukebox troduce new Songs bills,” Rep. Green (D-Boise) intheKetchum opportunity to testify for and against bills, esChristiania from Heroes, YouBrooke Know said. peopleand haveparticipants spoken; they do want pecially when they are this contentious. The ma6-8not p.m. and“The Love,” the legislature to make the initiative process more jority March party is attempting to completely silence the On Friday, 16, are encouraged to wear their difficult. I cannot understand why legislators voters both inside and outside of the statehouse.” tws costumes on and off the slopes. participants will hold pre-race would fly in the face of what their constituents tws

GOVERNOR TAKES 21ST JANSS LITTLE PRO-AM CLASSIC A BIG STAND BALLOT Putting the funON in fundraising INITIATIVE PROCESS

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NEWS IDAHO

GOVERNOR SIGNS MEDICAID EXPANSION INTO LAW, WITH RESTRICTIONS Democrats vow to take the battle to the courts

BY ERIC VALENTINE

“When the Governor vetoed the Revenge on Voters Act last week, we were hopeful that he understood the importance of using his position to stop Idaho from being forced into embarrassing lawsuits. Clearly, we were wrong. We will waste millions of taxpayer dollars implementing barriers to Medicaid coverage and millions fighting those barriers in court. The Governor has made a decision that is both fiscally irresponsible and inhumane.” That’s the collective comment the state’s Democratic leadership—specifically, the Idaho Joint Democratic Caucus—offered in response to Gov. Brad Little’s decision to sign restrictions on Medicaid expansion into law yesterday. Democrats said they will challenge Idaho Senate Bill 1204 in court where they believe the law will side with them.

At issue is how a ballot initiative to expand Medicaid will cost at least $3 million to administer and won’t make coverage to significantly more Idahoans should be car- much, if any, difference because Medicaid Expansion ried out. More than 61 percent of voters approved the primarily benefits the working poor who have jobs but initiative in the last November elecdon’t make much in wages,” Sen. tion. Now it’s time to fund it. And Grant Burgoyne (D-Boise) said. The Governor has made to do that, Republican leadership in Democrats claim as many as a decision that is both 12,000 Idahoans could now lose the legislature has proposed a number of ways to quell their fiscal con- fiscally irresponsible and eligibility for expanded Medicaid cerns. healthcare coverage. inhumane.” Among those proposals: work According to Close the Gap Idarequirements—to ensure that Idaho Joint Democratic Caucus ho—a proponent of unfettered able-bodied Medicaid-eligible resiMedicaid expansion—a federal dents were holding down a job, or at least attempting to. judge ruled Medicaid work reporting requirements in Democrats, however, claim that enforcing those require- Kentucky and Arkansas unlawful because work-reportments would unfairly remove certain Idahoans from ing requirements violate the central tenet of the Medichealthcare coverage and would end up costing the state aid program and, therefore, coverage cannot be condimore money than it would save. tioned on work. tws “The mandatory work requirements added to the bill

T H E W E E K LY S U N •

APRIL 10-16, 2019

NEWS EDUCATION

IS COMMUNITY CAMPUS WORTH THE COST? School District Is Asking The Public To Weigh In By Eric Valentine

fforts to focus spending taxpayer money on students in the classroom rather than subsidizing school district assets is raising questions about how much longer Blaine County School District can operate its Community Campus. The district held a town hall session last night to hear from residents and—the district says—it has been hearing from multiple stakeholders since September 2017 when the school board began reviewing district property that was not being used for school purposes and determining if savings could be found. Some of these properties have been sold. Others are being reviewed for repurposing to better meet district needs. Enter: so-called non-school buildings like the Community Campus now being reviewed for possible cost savings. “The Board of Trustees’ two main goals are to balance the budget and close the achievement gap. Blaine County School District staff continue to work relentlessly to ensure that all students have the same opportunities to succeed and they do this with less resources than in the past,” Superintendent GwenCarol Holmes wrote in a letter to the public. According to Holmes, the trustees and the administration have heard from many stakeholders that the district should maintain two key priorities: 1. Providing a robust and wide-ranging educational program 2. Maintaining small class sizes But state funding alone does not provide enough funding to meet those expectations, so the district must rely on local funding. The district is now asking its trustees, with the help of Community Campus tenants and the public at large, to provide guidance on how to proceed with the use of the non-school buildings. Options include, but are not limited to: • • • •

Maintain the status quo and continue to subsidize the operation of the Community Campus Notify tenants that leases for the Community Campus will be renegotiated within the next year to reduce the need for the district to subsidize this space Make plans for moving the technology office to the Community Campus in currently unused or minimally used spaces and then sell the current building and land Make plans for moving the offices at the district office to the Community Campus in currently unused or minimally used spaces and then sell the current building and land

Due to the proximity of the Community Campus to Wood River High School and Silver Creek High School, it would be difficult to relinquish ownership of the Community Campus while maintaining the safety of our students, Holmes noted. “We have had many, many conversations and meetings with our tenants at the Community Campus. Now it’s time to also hear from additional stakeholders. This item is for discussion only and no action will be taken,” Holmes wrote in her letter. If you have questions or concerns over the matter, you are encouraged to contact the district by email at amandalachance@blaineschools.org.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Organ Donation Organizers Celebrate Milestone

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More than 1 million Idahoans are committed to organ donation, making the state one of the highest per-capita donor registries in the nation. It’s a benchmark that was celebrated by the “Yes Idaho” Donate Life Coalition on Tuesday in Boise. At the event Tuesday, the “Yes Idaho” Donate Life Coalition recognized local community partners who have been an integral part of saving lives through organ donation. In addition, Intermountain Donor Services Director Alex McDonald addressed the new $2 voluntary donation Idahoans can make to the organ donation program when they receive or renew their driver’s license. The money is used to educate Idahoans about the need for organ, eye and tissue donation. The donor registry documents a person’s consent for organ, eye and tissue donation after death. An organ donor can potentially save 75 lives. Since the program started in August 2018, more than $4,000 has been raised. For more information about organ, eye and tissue donation, go to the “Yes Idaho” website or call 1-866-Yes-Idaho.

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Health Officials Warn Of Hepatitis A Outbreak In Southern Idaho

Public health officials are investigating an outbreak of hepatitis A in southern Idaho. Twelve people infected with the hepatitis A virus have been reported to public health officials since the beginning of the year; three cases were in Blaine County. In 2018, only eight people were reported with hepatitis A in Idaho. Epidemiologists are working to determine possible links between the cases and are encouraging people in high-risk populations to get vaccinated. Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for people who might be at increased risk of being exposed to the virus, including: • Men who have sex with men • People who use drugs (injection or non-injection) • People experiencing unstable housing or homelessness • People with chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C “We're monitoring the situation closely,” said epidemiologist Randi Pedersen. “The best protection is to be vaccinated, but everyone can reduce their risk by practicing good hand hygiene. This means thoroughly washing your hands after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before preparing or eating food.” Hepatitis A is a virus that infects the liver and is easily spread by poor hand washing, close contact or sex with an infected person, eating or drinking contaminated food, and recreational drug use. “Most Idahoans reported with hepatitis A this year have been so severely ill, they were hospitalized,” Pedersen said. Hepatitis A can be prevented by being vaccinated, and also by washing hands with soap and water after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food. Symptoms start 2-7 weeks after infection and can include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, tiredness, lack of appetite, and dark urine or pale stool. Hepatitis A vaccine has been routinely recommended for children since 1999. However, there are many Idahoans over the age of 30 who were not vaccinated as a child and are susceptible to hepatitis A. Lack of immunity among Idahoans over the age of 30 may be playing a role in the current outbreak in Idaho. For more information about hepatitis A and getting vaccinated, talk to your healthcare provider or local public health district. Find your local public health district at http://www.idahopublichealthdistricts.org/ and Hepatitis A Facts at http://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis.

Bug Zoo Is Coming To You

The Sawtooth Botanical Garden has set its dates for its 15th annual Bug Zoo commencing with the opening of the Bug Zoo Festival on Saturday, April 27. The 2019 Bug Zoo theme is “Survival!” The yearly celebration and study of insects, reptiles and other critters at Sawtooth Botanical Garden allows people to connect with some of our strangest fellow creatures. This spring, participants will look at survival strategies of animals and plants, including migration, cooperation, and adaptation in the face of new challenges. The educational fun begins on Saturday, April 27 at 11 a.m. with the Bug Zoo Festival. Inside and outside at the Sawtooth Botanical Garden participants will have opportunities to meet the critters, get a face painting, do a scavenger hunt, make art, learn about flowers, and how to garden with insects in mind. Last year more than 1,500 people participated in Bug Zoo, a nearly two-week event hosted by the Sawtooth Botanical Garden each year. For more information and the full schedule, visit www.sbgarden.org or call (208) 726-9358. The Sawtooth Botanical Garden is located at 11 Gimlet Road, four miles south of Ketchum.

Returning, New Student Enrollment Under Way

Returning student registration will open today for students currently attending a Blaine County School District (BCSD) school. New student enrollment for the next school year is currently open, too. Returning student registration can be accessed through existing Skyward Family Access accounts. Skyward Family Access requires a log-in name and password; parents can use the same log-in/password as prior years. If parents have forgotten log-in names or passwords, they can follow the instructions on the log-in page or contact their child’s school secretary. Students who enroll now will be able to sign up for classes for the upcoming school year. This includes students new to the district who plan on transferring from another school, such as The Sage School, Pioneer Montessori School, Syringa Mountain School or Sun Valley Community School, and for families planning to move to Blaine County, Idaho. Parents should begin by contacting the school their child plans to attend. A registration checklist and more information is available at www. blaineschools.org under Our District/Registration.

APRIL 10-16, 2019

Organ Donation Organizers Celebrate Milestone

sun the weekly

Mountain Humane Welcomes New Board Members And Officers

Three new longtime philanthropic volunteers have been added to the Mountain Humane board of directors. They are Linda Potter, Rita Golleher and Maggie Sturdevant, all longtime supporters of the shelter. They join existing directors Joseph Begovich, Christine Ferguson, Bobbi Hunt, Sally Onetto, Phil Usher, secretary Elizabeth Mathieu, treasurer Renee Faltings, vice president Dan Drackett and president Jan Main. “We are truly grateful to the commitment and service of our board members,” JoAnne Dixon, executive director, said. “Without their leadership and support, Mountain Humane would not be able to fulfill our ambitious goal of making Idaho a no-kill state.” Mountain Humane officially moved into its new animal welfare facility earlier this year, doubling the number of pets housed and continuing the current trend of increased adoptions. As the first no-kill shelter in the state of Idaho, Mountain Humane is joining forces with regional shelters to achieve the so-called No-Kill Idaho goal by 2025.

Students from USA Grappling pionships in Salt Lake City. David champions in their divisions. All o divisions. From left to right (stud Merridith Hoskins, Treagan Dowd end the group. Photo credit: USA

Idaho’s Nuclear Watchdog Has A New Pack Leader

Holly Harris will become executive director of the Snake River Alliance board, starting May 1. Harris comes to the grassroots organization after more than nine years as a staff attorney for Earthjustice in Alaska. Before that, she worked for the firm K&L Gates (formerly Preston, Gates & Ellis) in Seattle, focusing on environmental matters and renewable energy as well as supervising teams dedicated to Superfund cleanup design and implementation. Harris has a B.S. in Biological Sciences from the University of Alaska, an M.S. in Public Administration with a concentration on Natural Resources Policy from the University of Oregon, and a law degree from the University of Oregon. In 2018, the SRA led a successful campaign to raise public awareness about proposed plutonium shipments to Idaho. The Department of Energy abandoned the plan for those shipments. “We’re now trying to stop construction of 12 nuclear power reactors at the Idaho National Laboratory. Holly will be an excellent leader for this effort. And she joins us just in time for our 40th anniversary gala. This is a good way to face the future,” Julie Hoefnagels, president of the Snake River Alliance board, said.

Idaho Supreme Court Wants To Hear From You

The Idaho Supreme Court has released the Idaho Civil Justice Reform Task Force Report, an examination of Idaho’s civil courts that includes proposals aimed at improving access to the courts by reducing the length and cost of civil litigation. The task force has recommended the court adopt 13 recommendations originally developed by the Conference of Chief Justices (CCJ). The proposed changes include fundamentally altering how civil cases flow through the court system, creating three tracks a case can take depending on the resources required. The changes are meant to address rising court fees and declining filings of civil cases; signs that civil procedure costs often outpace the amounts in dispute. Rising costs also cause many meritorious cases to not be pursued. Some of the proposed changes include:

As rain showers passed over Baldy o rainbow over Warm Springs. Photo c

• Judges and court staff, not attorneys, to control the pace of litigation based on schedules set shortly after a civil case is filed. • Introducing case management teams made of a responsible judge and a support staff who can make routine case management decisions. • Making litigation easier for the public to understand and navigate. The changes would affect civil cases including collections, contracts, real estate disputes, employment, personal injury and medical malpractice. It would not affect family law or small claims cases. The Idaho Supreme Court is asking for public comment on the recommendations before voting on whether or not to adopt them. The report and technical correction can be found at https://isc.idaho.gov/ files/final-report.pdf. The comment period is open through June 30 and all comments should be sent to CourtComments@idcourts.net.

A runner circles the large concrete c Wednesday, April 3. Photo credit: St

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APRIL 10-16, 2019

T H E W E E K LY S C E N E

Academy in Bellevue competed in the Utah Open Jiu-Jitsu State Chamd O’Crowley, Kade O’Crowley and Lexiegh Dowd earned titles as state other USA Grappling Academy students placed in the top three in their ents): Tyler O'Crowley, David O'Crowley, Kade O'Crowley, Lexiegh Dowd, d and Maddison Hoskins. Coaches Lee Anderson and Julie Daniels bookA Grappling Academy

on April 5, the sun was peeking out through blue skies, revealing an amazing credit: Bruce McLean

cistern located partway up the south ridge of Carbonate Mountain in Hailey on teve Snyder

Special Reserve plays Spanish-style rock at The Red Shoe in Hailey on Saturday, April 6. Photo credit: Brennan Rego

Top and bottom: Folks revel during traditional drinking games and other activities at the 6th Annual Sawtooth Regional Galande Quaffing Championships. The annual event is held in Warm Springs. It is billed as the ultimate game for snow and beer lovers.

COMME N TA RY

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Fishing R epoRt

APRIL 10-16, 2019

COLUMN NO BONES ABOUT IT THE “WEEKLY” FISHING REPORT FOR APRIL 10 – 16, FROM PICABO ANGLER

ishing season is NOT closed on all our area waters. The waters that are closed, that you cannot fish until opening day, on May 25, include Silver Creek, the Big Wood, and the South Fork of the Boise. Waters that remain open include the Lost River and Little Wood River, as well as the Salmon River for steelhead fishing. All lakes, reservoirs, ponds and canals remain open to fishing, as well. The Lost River generally moves to the top of anglers’ lists in April and May, as it is open for fishing and can be very good fishing. Lately, the Lost River below the dam in Mackay has been fishing really well. Anglers are fishing nymph rigs with the color red and doing really well. Red Copper Johns, San Juan Worms, Red Hares Ears and even basic egg patterns will work great. There is also a great dry-fly opportunity on the Lost, given the right day and conditions. Baetis (Blue-Winged Olives) are bringing fish to the surface. This hatch starts on warm days after the morning chill is long gone. Fish Parachute Adams in a size 18 or your favorite Silver Creek Baetis patterns. Please be sure to watch out for the rainbow redds (spawning beds) in the river and DO NOT step into these areas. These cleared gravel patches hold the future trout population on the Lost, so please be mindful. This exact same thing can be said if you look for steelhead on the Salmon River. The Salmon River steelhead are getting caught in the upper reaches slowly but surely. Expect this action to pick up as we move further into spring weather. These steelhead are best caught swinging a fly in the waters closer to Challis. Moving closer to Stanley, the strike-indicator trout method is your best bet as the fish enter large pocket water sections. Don’t ignore the lakes and reservoirs in the spring, as the ice-out conditions make for fabulous fishing, from the deserts to the mountains. The inlets can be very good in the spring as fish stage to move up into feeder creeks as well as taking advantage of newly opened waters as the ice recedes. Finally, the Richfield Canal has nice-sized fish in it. It is a matter of finding some of the deeper holes. If you can find the deep spots, you can find the fish. Get out there and explore! It can be a very rewarding time of the season to fish. Happy fishing, everyone!

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

‘SPRING’ INTO ACTION!

BY FRAN JEWELL

hat does one have to do with the other? Right now, we are all excited about the longer days and warmer nights. For us, that means more time to spend with our dogs getting closer to the magnificent area we live in. Not a moment goes by for dog lovers of the Wood River Valley that they are not thinking about long hikes and getting back to nature, especially now after an incredibly hard winter. A client and friend just called me about an event that shattered her nerves and brought her to tears. Her wonderful dog, that has 100 percent recall, had wandered a very short distance from home and was drawn to a nearby pond. Unable to hear her owner, the dog fell in at the middle of the pond and was unable to get out. A very brave passerby, Nina Tooley, saw the dog swimming in circles, trying desperately to get out of the water. Without hesitation or regard to her own safety, Nina ran over and crawled across the ice to rescue the dog. Already beginning signs of hypothermia, my friends rushed their dog to the vet. Her life was saved by the heroic actions of an amazing person! Had Nina not been nearby, this incredible Labrador retriever would have never shown up back home and my friend would have never known what happened to her dog. We are all so grateful for this caring and selfless neighbor! This near tragedy points out to us that we need to be incredibly careful this time of year when recreating near any water sources, such as rivers, streams, ponds or lakes. What might look safe to the dog may be a death sentence. Even a small stream or slow-moving river may be swollen with runoff and moving very fast and strong. Portions you may not see could still be ice-covered. A dog that loses its footing can be swept downstream and sucked under the ice, never to come out the other side. A place your dog may visit in the summer may now be more dangerous than

Elise’s pond. Photo credit: Mary Stoecklein

you can imagine. As if spring water danger wasn’t enough, we are also surrounded by hungry wildlife that pose a danger to both our dogs and to us. Another friend of mine has had a lynx hanging out on her front deck! Having a threeand-a-half-month-old puppy has caused her great concern. We all have heard the reports of mountain lions everywhere up and down the Valley. I live in Hailey and one neighbor reported a mountain lion on my street. And, another a few blocks from me had a moose in her yard! With the snow melting and the warmer days, the bears are coming out of hibernation and are very hungry! Living here, among the incredible beauty and wildlife, we must remember that our dogs are not the top of the food chain. When we built our homes in this Valley, we invaded

the wildlife habitat. Golden Eagle [subdivision] used to be the winter area for all the elk. Elk now frequent Cold Springs and other spots along the Valley instead. To protect ourselves and our beloved dogs and cats, be sensible. Please do not frequent areas of known waterways right now. Keep your dogs close to you. Use a leash more than the time you don’t. Even 100 percent recall cannot protect your dog from slipping through the ice! Fran Jewell is an Idaho Press Club award-winning columnist, IAABC-certified dog behavior consultant, NADOI-certified instructor #1096 and the owner of Positive Puppy Dog Training, LLC, in Sun Valley. For more information, visit positivepuppy.com or call (208) 578-1565.

COLUMN SKETCHBOOK HIKING

A NEMOPHILIST, A HAUNTER OF WOODS

BY LESLIE REGO

ecently, I came across the word nemophilist. It means someone with a love or fondness for forests, woods, or woodland scenery, or someone who often visits them, a ‘haunter’ of woods. The word derives from the Greek ‘nemos,’ a wooded glade, and ‘philos,’ signifying affection or love. This is an old word and its first recorded appearance occurred in1838 in the Atlantic Monthly. In 1923, the word was utilized in an article in the magazine The Swiss Cross, an old popular science publication. “To many persons, Spring means ‘ethereal mildness,’ and to such her coming is indeed slow in our land, but the nemophilist, who has listened through all the lengthening days of later winter for sound of earliest bird, is off to the woods before the snow has left the hollows.” How wonderful and how perfect for our Valley! The past few months I have suffered from severe tendonitis in my arms and I have not been able to grasp ski poles. Instead of skiing, I am snowshoeing. One thing I like about snowshoeing is that you slow down. I have become familiar with the different trees in each trail, remembering a few as my favorites. I love the paths that lead me through the woods. With the lengthening of the days, the light has been spectacular bouncing off the snow and trees. Snowshoeing has allowed me to listen to the woods. I have been able to attune myself to the gentlest of nuances. Earlier in the winter,` when I snowshoed, the shadows were

Leslie Rego, “From my Sketchbook, Winter to Spring,” watercolor, nib pen and ink, white gouache.

deep and the light was low. But now, as I continue to snowshoe in April, I hear the quickening of the waters, the chirp of the birds, and the sweet rustle of the branches. I feel as if I can hear the sap awakening and coursing through the trees. Many of us are haunters of our woods. We are nemophilists who have been listening.

We have heard the woods even though the snow has not yet left our ‘hollows.’ The shift from winter to spring is here. Leslie Rego is an Idaho Press Club award-winning columnist, artist and Blaine County resident. To view more of Rego’s art, visit leslierego.com.

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APRIL 10-16, 2019