Nahir Torres has had an extremely hard year. She is a single mom to a very adorable 4-year-old. Her family is all in Puerto Rico and Boston. She has friends locally but no one that she can really turn to if she needs help.

Her car recently broke down and she is having to walk the cold streets of Rexburg at 5 a.m. with her son to take him to daycare so that she can then go to work. She doesn’t have a working phone and is too independent to ask for government help.

She is an amazing woman and a wonderful mom who is trying her best to provide for her son and herself.

Secret Santa asked the EastIdahoNews.com elves to visit Nahir with a Christmas gift that will change her life. Watch the video above to see the surprise!

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyoming — The partial government shutdown impacts federal national parks including Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Visitors have access both parks, though no government-operated visitor services will be available.

The following is a list of services that are affect at both parks:

Yellowstone National Park

• Yellowstone will remain open, however, all government-run operations and facilities are closed. Entrance stations will not be staffed.
• The road from the park’s North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana, through Mammoth Hot Springs to the Northeast Entrance at Cooke City, Montana, is open to wheeled vehicle travel. Visitors can access all the commercial services along this route (including commercial services in Mammoth Hot Springs and Tower).
• Visitors can also access commercial services in the interior of the park via oversnow travel (e.g. at Old Faithful). Concessioners are currently providing funding for road grooming so that oversnow access to the interior is possible.
• Guided snowmobile and snowcoach trips with commercial operators will be allowed. Non-commercially guided snowmobile trips will also be allowed.
• If conditions become unsafe at any time, roads and/or developed areas in the park may be closed.
• Park staff will provide emergency services and law enforcement. All park regulations, including those regarding oversnow travel, are in effect as normal.
• The park website and social media sites will not be maintained.
• All administrative offices, including the public affairs office, will be closed until the government reopens.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park Deputy Superintendent Gopaul Noojibail said, “Visitors will be able to access Grand Teton National Park, but should plan ahead and use caution as park staff will not be available to provide guidance or assistance. If visitors see something that jeopardizes visitor safety or park resources, call Teton Interagency Dispatch Center at 307.739.3301.”

• Park roads will remain open if they are essential to respond to emergencies-this includes most roads that are normally maintained and open at this time of year. Access to all residences will be maintained.
• Emergency response may be delayed.
• Entrance stations will not be staffed.
• Grooming of the Teton Park Road will continue through a partnership agreement with Grand Teton National Park Foundation. Grooming is scheduled to occur twice a week.
• Teton Interagency Dispatch Center will be available during normal winter hours-6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Emergency 911 calls will be answered by Teton County Dispatch 24 hours/day.
• Park website and social media sites will not be maintained.
• Concessioners and Commercial Use Authorization holders may continue to provide visitor services after coordination with the park to ensure compliance with government shutdown protocols.
• Access to Yellowstone National Park’s south entrance will continue, including staging and winter services available at Headwaters Lodge at Flagg Ranch in John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway.

IDAHO FALLS — Put the phone down while driving or risk a hefty fine. That’s the message the Idaho Falls Police Department hopes to instill in residents driving in the community.

The Idaho Falls Police Department spent Dec. 19, educating the public on the new hands-free ordinance in Idaho Falls. Instead of handing out $100 fines to people caught using their phones while driving, officers passed out pamphlets informing drivers about the new ordinance.

“It’s all about public safety,” Idaho Falls Police Chief Bryce Johnson told EastIdahoNews.com. “Driving is a dangerous thing that people do. It’s probably the most dangerous thing most folks do in the course of their day.”

The ordinance only allows the use of cell phones while driving if it’s done hands-free. Having a cell phone in hand while driving constitutes a $100 fine for the first offense and a $200 fine for the second.

EastIdahoNews.com accompanied Idaho Falls Detective Josh Deede for a ride-along on Dec. 19. In the little over an hour we spent with Deede, we pulled over four people using their phones while driving.

He estimated the police force would pull over at least 100 people before the end of the day.

“Having people pay attention to their driving instead of paying attention to their phones is really going to make it safer for everyone,” Johnson said.

Idaho Falls police will begin handing out tickets for violating the ordinance beginning January 1, 2019.

After fishing for two hours I finally got a hookup almost at the same time my JawJacker went off – a double but only me. I landed a 16 inch rainbow and quickly moved to the other dancing rod where I landed a 15 inch ‘bow. Both were released.

While baiting and resetting both rods the other JawJacker went off but missed while two other rods showed some light hits. In short, after two hours of being skunked; I landed five rainbows and one brook trout in 35 minutes – then two more hours of being skunked.

I was the only fisherman near the dam and after I picked up my gear I drove over to Lakeside Lodge where several fishermen were fishing – but not catching. They had found some success earlier but the fish had into a fast. Typical of a winter day during a full moon on Island Park Reservoir.

Those of us who love to fish through the ice have several options for the next two or three weeks as it appears Ririe and Palisades are going to be slow freezing over. Henrys Lake will close on Jan. 1, and the catching has slowed with an occasional trophy being caught; Chesterfield, Mackay, Jackson and Hebgen are a long way to drive; Jim Moore Pond and Mud Lake are producing tiny perch; Ashton has limited access as the gate across the dam is locked, leaving Island Park Reservoir as the best option until Ririe and Palisades freezes over.

A couple of things will make Island Park a popular place for fishermen to go there. First, the full moon will be gone in a week and second, on Jan. 5th, there will be an ice fishing tournament there. Lakeside Lodge and Elk Creek Station will be hosting the one day tournament for two-person teams. Pre-registration will be available Friday night, Jan. 4, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the evening with registration from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. Saturday morning at the Lakeside Lodge.

Fishing will begin at 8 a.m. and will end at noon with the final weigh-in at 12:15 p.m. followed by lunch and awards ceremony.

According to an information sheet, each team of two persons will pay a $40 entry fee, which will include lunch at Lakeside.

Each person will be limited to two rods instead of the legal five rod regulation. Each team will leave Lakeside at 8 a.m. and can fish anywhere on Island Park Reservoir and “each person is allowed two fish to be weighed in for a total of four fish for each team.”

“How does the weigh in work: once you catch a fish that you want to keep for weigh in you have to bring it immediately up to the lodge and get it weighed in and tagged. We will keep track of the weigh ins for each team,” according to the contest rules.

There will be two prizes awarded: first place for the individual with the largest fish for overall weight and first place for the team with heaviest overall weight of all four fish.

If you are considering signing up for this tournament you should call Lakeside at (208) 558-9770 for any updates.

The Island Park rainbows are hot and fun to catch and the brooks are delicious so you will probably find me there again in the next two weeks or until Ririe freezes.

Eileen Parker is one of the strongest, humblest, most amazing people you could ever meet.

Her young husband, Ben, has had cancer twice since their 8-year-old was born. Keeping up with the medical bills has been tough on them, but they’ve gotten through.

Ben is a school teacher in Idaho Falls and has a second job to make things work. Until last week, they only have one car which Ben drove to work. That meant Eileen walked her two oldest kids, along with their 3-year-old, to and from school every day. The 6-year-old is in half-day kindergarten so Eileen and the 3-year-old walk to and from the school three times each day.

This family never asks for anything for themselves. They are extremely frugal and humble. When asked what they could use for Christmas, Eileen said they were ok and didn’t need anything because they were better off now than during the “cancer years”.

Secret Santa asked the EastIdahoNews.com elves to go surprise the Parkers with an early Christmas gift. Watch the video above to see what happened!

BOISE — The Idaho Department of Correction is searching for an East Boise Community Reentry Center inmate who has walked away from her job in the community.

Januari Jade Cleverly was last seen about 7 p.m. Friday walking in the 1800-block of W. State Street in Boise.

Cleverly is white, 29 years old, with black hair, and hazel eyes. She is 5 feet, 7 inches tall and weighs 125 pounds.

Cleverly’s criminal record includes a conviction for grand theft in Ada County. She has been eligible for parole since 2013. Her sentence was scheduled to be satisfied on March 4, 2020.

Anyone with information about Cleverly’s whereabouts should contact their local law enforcement agency.

Rita Evans has plantar fasciitis, arthritis and bone spurs on both of her feet. She has had surgery on them before and will likely have to do it again. With all of these health issues, she never complains and always has a smile on her face. She will help anyone at any time and loves to give secret service herself.

Though she’s in her late 50s and has health problems, she continues to work. She cleans one home and an office building three times a week and has a little sewing business. Her husband retired from the Air Force and works as a local bus driver. Whatever doesn’t go to necessities or doctor bills goes to helping others.

Rita doesn’t have the right pair of shoes to support or help her feet. She would never ask for help, especially at Christmas time. She needs a decent pair of orthopedic shoes that will help ease her pain.

Secret Santa decided to get Rita those shoes and asked the EastIdahoNews.com to go surprise her with the good news.

The following is a news release from Idaho State Police.

BONNEVILLE COUNTY — On Sunday, Dec. 23, at approximately 12:41 a.m., Idaho State Police investigated a two-vehicle, fatal crash on eastbound US 20 at milepost 318 near County Line Road.

Manuel Sanzon, 20, of Idaho Falls was stopped on the right shoulder of US 20 changing the left front tire on a 1997 Hyundai Tiburon. Kelsy Johnson, 26, of Rigby, was driving eastbound on US 20 in a 2017 Toyota Rav4.

Johnson struck both Sanzon and his passenger Israel Dewey, 18, of Idaho Falls, who were both outside of the vehicle. Sanzon succumbed to his injuries at the scene of the crash. Dewey was not transported.

Next of kin has been notified.

Eastbound US 20 was blocked for approximately three and a half hours.

Idaho State Police was assisted by the Bonneville and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

In this edition of East Idaho Newsmakers, Nate Eaton speaks with popular violinist Jenny Oaks Baker. Baker, known as ‘America’s Violinist,’ was recently in eastern Idaho to perform with the Rexburg Children’s Choir.

Baker is a Grammy Nominated, Billboard No. 1 performer and recording artist. She received her Master of Music degree from the renowned Juilliard School in New York City and her Bachelor’s Degree in violin performance from the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia.

She has performed as a soloist at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Strathmore Hall, the Library of Congress and as a guest soloist with The National Symphony, Jerusalem Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, Utah Symphony and the internationally acclaimed Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Over the years Baker has collaborated with such luminaries as Gladys Knight, Kurt Bestor, Marvin Hamlisch and the former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Baker has released fifteen studio albums since 1998. They have sold nearly a million copies and consistently chart on Billboard. Baker’s emotionally stirring music has also been featured on the soundtracks of many films, and her popular music videos can be viewed on her Youtube Channel. Baker, her husband Matthew, and their four children reside in Utah. She and her children perform together throughout the world as Jenny Oaks Baker & Family Four.

Watch the video above to see the conversation!

EAST IDAHO NEWSMAKERS ARCHIVES

NEW IDAHO SUPREME COURT JUSTICE GREGORY MOELLER

HOW MARGO REY, A BILLBOARD TOP 20 RECORDING ARTIST, ENDED UP PERFORMING WITH A LOCAL SCHOOL CHOIR

MICHAEL MCLEAN DISCUSSES THE FORGOTTEN CAROLS, HIS 9-YEAR FAITH CRISIS AND HOW HIS GAY SON HELPED HIM

CAPTAIN RANDY LEWIS REFLECTS ON HIS 44 YEARS OF POLICE SERVICE

WHY THIS YOUNG MAN IS UNASHAMEDLY SHARING HIS EXPERIENCE AS A PORN ADDICT

MEET TURTLE, THE LOCAL TEENAGER WHO WILL PERFORM IN A BROADWAY SHOW ABOUT HEMOPHILIA

FROM HARVARD TO AIR FORCE PILOT TO PIZZA RESTAURANT. THE STORY BEHIND RIGHTEOUS SLICE.

SUMMER ANDERSEN AND HER MISSION TO STOP AVALANCHE FATALITIES

JULIE ZAHN – THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SHEPHERD’S INN

SEXUAL ASSAULT AND HARASSMENT IN EASTERN IDAHO

AFTER ROBBING A CASINO, HIS FAMILY IS DESPERATELY TRYING TO GET HELP FOR HIS MENTAL ILLNESS

MADISON COUNTY CORONER RICK DAVIS REFLECTS ON 37 YEARS OF SERVICE, UNUSUAL DEATHS AND WHAT HE’LL MISS ABOUT THE JOB

YOUNG MEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF THEIR FRIENDS

LANCE PEKUS – THE LOCAL RANCHER WHO HIT NATIONAL FAME AS THE ‘COWBOY NINJA’

KEVIN MEEHAN, HIS DOG ISOSCELES AND THEIR STORY OF ABUSE AND RESCUE

TWIN FALLS — Authorities in Twin Falls are working with Colorado and federal agencies to process evidence and serve search warrants related to the disappearance and possible murder of Colorado mother Kelsey Berreth.

“We are pleased our organizations were able to provide the assistance and support requested by the FBI, CBI and the Woodland Park Police Department,” said Twin Falls Sheriff Tom Carter and Police Chief Craig Kingsbury in a joint news release Saturday.

The Twin Falls agencies were contacted on Dec. 15 by the FBI, 23 days after police in Colorado say Berreth was seen on surveillance video at a Safeway grocery store in Woodland Park shopping with her one year old daughter. Police say this was the last confirmed sighting of Berreth.

On Nov. 25 Berreth’s cell phone was pinged near Gooding at 5:13 p.m. nearly 800 miles from her home in Woodland Park. Twin Falls is 36 miles from the reported cell phone ping.

Colorado 4th District Attorney Dan May said that Berreth’s phone was in Idaho but police have yet to recover the device.

The Woodland Park police initially called the investigation a missing persons case, however on Friday, Dec. 21 Patrick Farzee the fiancé of Berreth was arrested and booked on murder charges in connection with her death.

It’s not clear evidence the Twin Falls authorities are processing or what areas have been searched by authorities.

RELATED| Patrick Frazee, the fiancé of missing Colorado mom Kelsey Berreth, is arrested and booked in her murder

Colorado investigators also searched the property of Farzee and his mother, where a backhoe was seen digging on the property. After the search of the 35 acres was completed, police left without giving specifics if anything was found. A few days later police then began to search the home of Berreth, removing large objects wrapped in brown paper.

Frazee was booked for first-degree murder and solicitation for first-degree murder at the Teller County Jail on Friday. May said at a Friday news conference that formal charges will be filed in about 10 days.

Officials in Colorado say they do not believe Berreth is alive, but have not located a body.

IDAHO FALLS — Light snowfall is expected across eastern Idaho starting Sunday afternoon and into Monday.

Areas of lower elevation, including Rexburg, Idaho Falls, and Pocatello, should see about 2 inches of snow over the two days.

Higher elevations areas, particularly around the central mountains and near Island Park are expecting between 2 to 4 inches on Sunday and the same on Monday.

Strong winds are not expected, so while the roads may be slick, drifting and blowing snow is unlikely.

For road conditions visit 511 Idaho.

Letty Sotelo is a registered nurse who is smart, caring and has a heart of gold. People who come across her say that she would take a bullet for you. This summer, her sister tragically passed away.

Letty and her husband, Juan, opened up their home to her four nephews, ranging in age from 6 to 17. Letty and Juan also have two children of their own – a 9-year-old and a 3-year-old. Letty has given everything she has to her nephews and provided them with a stable place to live.

Letty would give anything for her children and would give you the last dollar in her wallet. She is an amazing nurse, great friend and wonderful mother.

Secret Santa asked the EastIdahoNews.com elves to go surprise Letty with an early Christmas gift. Watch the video above to see what happened!

Tales of the Dinner Belle

It was just last month that Dorcas Reilly, the creator of the green bean casserole died at the age of 92. Her famous recipe is a staple at Thanksgiving tables all over the country and has been unchanged since 1955.

I love the dish and feel it is one of America’s all-time favorite comfort foods, but I also love to change things up, so when I make this famous recipe at other times of the year, I will add a few other ingredients to take it up just a notch.

My loaded green bean casserole has all the ingredients of the original, but with some tasty extras – mainly bacon and cheese. It probably won’t replace the old standby at this year’s holiday table, but it will give you another option for a flavorful side dish any time of the year.

Brenda Stanley is the mother of five children, including two sets of twins and a grandmother of seven. She is a cookbook author and novelist. She lives with her veterinarian husband on a small ranch in Blackfoot, Idaho. For more recipes and information, visit her website www.brendastanleybooks.com.

Vonda Zaugg’s husband passed away from cancer seven years ago rather unexpectedly. Before his death, Vonda spent her life as a stay-at-home mother of 6. She has spent the last seven years working to do all she can to provide for her family.

The heat pump in Vonda’s home has been failing for years. She has tried to do all she can to qualify for grants and work to get the heat pump replaced, but has not been able to get funding required to get a new pump – which could cost somewhere between $6,000-$8,000.

As a single mother trying to put her kids, and herself, through school, as well as provide for her family, an amount like that is not small. Right now the current heat pump runs constantly but still can not manage to keep the house above 63 degrees. The constant running of the heat pump adds the additional stress of an increased electric bill.

Secret Santa wanted to solve the problem and asked the EastIdahoNews.com elves to visit Vonda with an early Christmas present. Watch the video above to see the surprise!

The following is a release from the National Weather Service.

IDAHO FALLS — Light snow will remain over eastern Idaho for much of Christmas Eve. A winter storm will move into Utah Monday evening spreading snow north into the southern highlands.

By Christmas morning, a moderate snow band is expected to develop from south of Burley, moving northeast towards Pocatello and spreading east toward the eastern highlands. 2 to 5 inches could accumulate from near Malta through Inkom to near Palisades.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 6 a.m. Christmas morning through 6 a.m. Wednesday.

WEATHER IMPACTS

High Likelihood:

Light and occasionally moderate snow will bring 1 to 3 inches to the central mountains and southern highlands through tonight.

Moderate Likelihood:

A moderate snow band will develop near the ID/UT border early Christmas morning and move northeast. 2 to 5 inches are expected within this band.

Low Likelihood:

The snow band could shift north and extend further into the Snake Plain on Christmas Day. This could lead to less amounts over the southern/eastern highlands but bring impacts farther north of what is currently forecast.

Winds are not expected to be strong with this system, so blowing and drifting of snow is not forecast at this time.

DETAILS AND TIMING

Southern Highlands

Continuous light snow Monday and tonight could bring an additional 1 to 3 inches across higher elevations. Heavier snow is expected to develop near daybreak Christmas morning and spread through the Burley/Malta/Rockland area through the morning. Snow will taper down Christmas evening.

Pocatello through the Eastern Highlands

On and off light snow Monday and Monday evening could bring additional light accumulations.
The moderate snow band will move in near mid-morning Christmas Day. The heaviest snow is expected from about noon through 6 p.m. Christmas Day. Snow will taper down after nightfall.

Central Mountains east through the Montana Divide

Light snow Monday morning through the central mountains could bring 1 to 3 inches across the Sawtooths through the evening. Otherwise, little snow is expected through Christmas Day.

The following is a news release from the Pocatello Police Department.

POCATELLO — On Sunday at approximately 8:15 p.m., officers from the Pocatello Police Department responded to Holy Spirit Catholic Community’s office building in the 500 block of North 7th Avenue in reference to a burglary.

An employee of the church reported observing a subject inside the building via the surveillance camera they have access to on their phone. Officers searched the building and located the male hiding in one of the offices. The male was identified as 23-year-old Ricardo Andre Woodward. Woodward was found in possession of items belonging to the church.

Woodward was arrested for burglary and booked into the Bannock County Jail.

Over the last few weeks, EastIdahoNews.com has helped a Secret Santa give out $250,000 to deserving people across eastern Idaho. With the help of social media and national news coverage, millions around the world have now seen the touching surprises. We’ve received thousands of messages about how Secret Santa has inspired you this Christmas.

Here are some of the comments sent to EastIdahoNews.com this year.

This year, we showed our children the videos. My 10-year-old has aspirations of becoming Tony Stark – he wants to build real Iron Man suits and be filthy rich. After seeing the videos, he said he wants to use his riches to help Secret Santa. We have also come up with a new tradition for next year. On our birthdays and next Christmas, not only will we receive presents, we will donate a gift. – Carlos in Menan

Been a crummy year for us, but happened to see your Secret Santa episodes. Thank you. Thank you because it made me realize how great my life really is and to not feel down about what I go through as those folks on your program truly have either gone through tremendous adversity or are very sick. I am so fortunate. It also showed me that compassion and love is still alive. – Ed in Michigan

In my line of work, the winter/Christmas season becomes very stressful and busy and especially with the dark Alaskan winters it can be difficult for me to stay in the Christmas spirit. The Secret Santa videos inspire me to focus and serve those around me. I’ve found that as I make an effort to focus on the needs of others my life and Christmas is much more joyful. Thank you Secret Santa and East Idaho News for these wonderful stories that have inspired myself and others to do good this Christmas! – David in Wasilla, Alaska

Secret Santa doesn’t ask for anything back and I love that we have people in the community who want to help others. The stories touch my heart and I cry at each story. I’m a social worker and I love serving and helping others. Thank you Secret Santa for blessing others lives in our community. – Kimberly in Idaho Falls

If I’m feeling grinchy, I just watch the Secret Santa segments and they always make my heart happy! Secret Santa has blessed some truly deserving people this season. It makes me want to give more! – Bonny in Salt Lake City, Utah

I have loved all of the Secret Santa videos! I have cried through them all, as I knew one of the receivers. I am so grateful for Secret Santa and their willingness to give back anonymously in immensely generous ways. This is such a special way to help those in our community. – Emily in Provo, Utah

Secret Santa really helps me feel the true spirit of Christmas. This is what Christ would be doing if He were here. – Susie in Arizona

I am a single mom of 3 so I get the struggles and when I have rough days, sad days even happy days, sometimes a video or story can help you through whatever it is you are going through. Watching these videos fills my heart with so much joy and it makes me want to be better at serving others. Secret Santa is making miracles happen and is relighting the Spirit of Christmas and that is how we all should be! I love it!!! – Lynessa in Kansas

I have enjoyed watching the secret Santa surprises so much! They are deeply touching and very moving. It’s so nice to see something positive going around, especially around the holidays which can be a difficult and lonley time for many. It reminds me of the good in people, and the world, which is very uplifting and encouraging. It reminds us all to be kind and give because you never know what someone might be going through.
– Cindy in Idaho

I just can’t believe that these stories are real sometimes. They have filled my heart with so much love and inspiration. In a world with so many ugly and bad things, these stories have given me a chance to smile, to feel joy and also to shed many tears of happiness! What a wonderful thing to have happen in Idaho! God Bless you secret Santa! – Merla in Idaho

It has restored my faith in humanity! My mom was a single parent and seeing all these moms/women get some much needed help, it makes my heart so happy. I’ve shed many happy tears watching all the videos. – Chelsey in Pocatello

It started as a uplifting morning ritual to watch secret santa on East Idaho News. As stories continued I wanted to do my small part giving back this holiday Season. I am very blessed and I wanted to shed some holiday cheer. I took our local Cafe Rio employees some cocoa bean cupcakes in appreciation of how kind and happy they always are. I’m a fan of happy people and smiles and I felt they deserved a little Christmas cheer from me. I love paying it forward and I’m always looking for ways to do so. – Anonymous in Shelley

I’ve seen the videos on Facebook and I’ve shared them with my friends and family. It makes me so happy that there are still amazing people out there. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. – Camilla in Canada

This Christmas has been more of a challenge for me and my kids than normal so it has been so fun to watch the Secret Santa videos every day to help boost our Christmas spirit. I usually try and watch them in the morning to start my day off with something positive and something that usually makes me cry (but in a good way)! It also helps me remember to keep my eyes open for the little ways I can be a Secret Santa too! – Carrie in Idaho Falls

Just knowing that you have helped people that I care about has been a blessing to me. I don’t have much but this helped me to know there are people so generous! – Kristine in Bountiful, Utah

My co-workers would gather around a cell phone at work in the morning and watch the latest Secret Santa surprise on Facebook. We would share how we knew the person who was being surprised and often become emotional watching the video. – Katlyn in Idaho Falls

The first secret Santa videos I saw was when Secret Santa just began. I was in my first trimester of pregnancy, incredibly sick and was not in the mood for Christmas at all. I started watching these Secret Santa videos regularly and I noticed my mood changing. I no longer felt sorry for myself. They truly bring the Christmas spirit!! I have even had my LDS primary class watch a few of these videos to show them the true meaning of Christmas. I am normally not one to cry, but some of these stories really strike a tender spot in my heart. – GeAnna in Malad

Secret Santa has shown me that there is so much love and generosity in the world, and I have chances to help others. – Bailey in Idaho Falls

First thing I do every morning when I arrive at the office (clear down in California) is turn on the computer and check East Idaho News and the Secret Santa videos. It has made a wonderful start to my day these last couple of weeks. Thank you for spreading some joy during this special time of the year. – Daniel in California

This is what the world needs. It’s more than seeing the smiles on their faces and the good feeling that we get in our hearts as we watch it. You are changing these peoples’ lives for good in ways that will last well beyond the season, and what you are doing will influence thousands, dare I say millions, of others to do and be good as well. You will likely never know the extent of your reach, but those you reach will always remember what you’ve done for them. – D.F. in Rigby

Every time I watch a Secret Santa video I am brought to tears. It has enriched my holiday season by showing me there are still such wonderful people around us. This reminds me of what is truly important. These families that you have chosen are always so deserving and grateful and I it warms my heart to see it. – Jonie in Idaho Falls

I felt moved to help others this year after seeing the reactions of the recipients. Even though my family is struggling with money this year, we decided to do a 12 days of Christmas – Secret Santa style. My kids have had fun picking what gift to deliver and my son has enjoyed being “Santa”. This will be a tradition we continue for more years. -Kimberly in Stansbury Park, Utah

Seeing such wonderful gifts given to such deserving people has inspired my family to do whatever we can to help as well. This year my children went through all their toys and clothes and each of them put together a box to donate to a needy family or shelter. My husband and I have done the same and we decided to pay for another family’s meals a couple of times when we have gone out. I look forward to this time of year just to see the joy and appreciation from the recipients of this amazing gift. – Jennifer in Ammon

Just knowing that someone thought of them to submit their stories has to make them feel loved and then get a gift that helps – it’s icing on the cake. Reminds me that this holiday isn’t about stress and spending but about showing love to our neighbors and offering a helping hand. Thank you Secret Santa and EIN -you have rekindled the Christmas spirit. – Becky in Idaho

I am a local middle school health teacher and in class, we address ways to relieve stress. One way the kids always mention is to try and forget about your stressful situation for awhile. One way to forget about it is by doing something nice for someone else. That is where the SS videos come in. You would be surprised at the amazing discussions SS videos have generated among 12, 13, and 14 year old students!! Thank You! – Anonymous

The following is a news release from the Idaho Transportation Department.

SALMON — Drivers are to use caution while driving through the recent on going bridge replacement on Hwy 28 in Tendoy at milepost 116. There is a reduced speed limit through the construction zone of 45mph that will continue throughout the winter.

As the bridge is under construction, the public is advised to drive with caution in this construction zone as the roadway is uneven. During the winter weather in which road conditions can be unpredicatable it is advised to slow down at a safe distance before approaching the bridge for safety precautions.

The bridge replacement is scheduled to be completed by the end of May 2019.

The following is a news release from Brigham Young University-Idaho.

REXBURG — In celebration of the Christmas season, Brigham Young University-Idaho’s 2017 performance of “A BYU-Idaho Christmas” will be broadcast across the state on Idaho Public Television (IdahoPTV).

A 60-minute edited version of the concert will air on Monday, December 24, at 8 p.m. MST.

The 2017 concert features the BYU-Idaho Symphony Orchestra, Concert Choir, Vocal Union, Men’s and Women’s Choirs, and dancers from the College of Performing and Visual Arts, with special guests Santino Fontana and Lexi Walker.

“This is the third year BYU-Idaho has worked with IdahoPTV to share ‘A BYU-Idaho Christmas’ with people across the state. As more friends and families make attending this concert an annual tradition, we hope others throughout the state are able to feel the spirit of Christmas as they watch these performances on IdahoPTV,” said BYU-Idaho Media Relations Manager Brett Crandall.

“Our guest artists and audiences are consistently amazed that a production like this could come out of a small town like Rexburg,” said Randall Kempton, director of choral activities. “We are very fortunate to have the BYU-Idaho Center, an amazing technical staff, and so many dedicated student performers.”

But Kempton said the show is really not about showing off the performers and the facilities. “For us, sharing this concert on PBS is our Christmas gift to the state of Idaho, one we hope will uplift as well as entertain the whole family. We hope it adds something special to the spirit of Idaho’s Christmas season.”

Santino Fontana is an actor and singer, known for voicing Prince Hans in the Disney film “Frozen.” He is the first guest artist to have performed three times in one year with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.

Sixteen-year-old recording artist Lexi Walker has performed with artists such as Kristen Chenoweth, The Piano Guys, and Lindsey Stirling.

The following is a news release from the Idaho Ski Areas Association.

IDAHO FALLS — Skiers throughout Idaho have much to celebrate this holiday season, with all 18 of the state’s alpine ski resorts either already open for the season or opening before the New Year.

Up in the Idaho Panhandle, Bald Mountain Ski Area in Pierce plans to open Friday Dec. 28.

Bogus Basin near Boise is open seven days a week, with night operations beginning last night, Dec. 21. The resort has 25 inches of snow at the base and has received 47 inches total this season. The mountain is among resorts of the year for Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming identified in SKI magazine’s annual “Resorts of the Year” issue for 2019.

In McCall, Brundage Mountain is open seven days a week. The resort has 37 inches of snow at the base and has received 74 inches total this season. It earned an Editor’s Choice-Next Best Places award for up-and-coming areas in SKI magazine’s 2019 “Resorts of the Year” issue.

Meanwhile, up on the Camas Prairie, Cottonwood Butte Ski Area near Cottonwood plans to open Dec. 26 depending on snow.

Just across the state’s eastern border, Grand Targhee Resort in Alta, Wyo., is open seven days a week. The resort, which has 54 inches of snow at the base and has received 140 inches total this season, affiliates with Ski Idaho because it’s only accessible via Driggs, Idaho.

Kelly Canyon Ski Resort in nearby Ririe is open six days a week and closed Sundays. This season it has received a total of 47 inches of snow.

Likewise, the Little Ski Hill in McCall is open six days a week beginning today, Dec. 22, but closed Mondays.

Back up north, Lookout Pass near Mullan is open seven days a week. The resort has 54 inches of snow at the base.

Straddling the Idaho-Montana border, Lost Trail near Conner, Mont., is open daily through Jan. 6 and then open Thursdays through Sundays and major holidays the rest of the season. It has 20 inches of snow at the base and has received 61 inches total this season.

Down south, Magic Mountain near Hansen is open daily though Jan. 6 except Christmas and then open Thursdays through Sundays and major holidays the rest of the season. The resort has 29 inches of snow at the base.

Pebble Creek Ski Area in Inkom is currently open Fridays-Sundays but will begin daily operations Dec. 26. It has 19 inches of snow at the base.

Pomerelle Mountain Resort near Albion is open seven days a week. Night operations begin Dec. 26 and run Tuesday-Saturday nights. The resort has 32 inches of snow at the base and has received 81 inches total this season.

Idaho’s northernmost alpine ski area, Schweitzer Mountain Resort in Sandpoint is open seven days a week. The mountain has 38 inches of snow at the base and has received 79 inches total this season. It is among resorts of the year for Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming identified in SKI magazine’s annual “Resorts of the Year” issue for 2019. SKI magazine also singled out Schweitzer as “an up and coming four-season resort” whose “views of sparkling Lake Pend Oreille give the Tahoe areas a reason to be nervous.”

Nearby Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg is also open seven days a week. It has 41 inches of snow mid-mountain and has received 80 inches total this season.

Snowhaven Ski & Tubing Area to the south near Grangeville on the Camas Prairie opened today, Dec. 22. It has 12 inches of snow at the base.

Back down south, Soldier Mountain Ski Area near Fairfield is open daily through New Year’s Day except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Beginning Jan. 3 the resort, which has 17 inches of snow at the base, will open Thursdays through Sundays and on major holidays the rest of the season.

North America’s first destination ski resort and the global birthplace of lift-assisted skiing, Sun Valley Resort in Sun Valley is open seven days a week. It has received a total of 25 inches of snow this season, but thanks to the resort’s fantastic snowmaking capabilities it has 33 inches of snow at the base. Sun Valley earned first place in western North America for charm and lift service in SKI magazine’s annual “Resorts of the Year” issue for 2019 and third place for “overall satisfaction” among readers.

Tamarack Resort in Donnelly is open seven days a week. The mountain has 19 inches of snow at the base and 26 inches mid-mountain.