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Guest Column–Dorothy Moon: Pocatello Awards Drag Queen Story Time an Award for ‘Human and Civil Rights,’ Igniting Concerns from Parents over Child Exposure to Gender Confusion

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November 30, 2023

Pocatello Awards Drag Queen Story Time an Award for ‘Human and Civil Rights,’ Igniting Concerns from Parents over Child Exposure to Gender Confusion

By: Dorothy Moon, IDGOP Chairwoman

Dorothy Moon, Chairwoman of the Idaho Republican Party

They tell us it’s not happening in Idaho. They also tell us it’s a good thing that it is.

Earlier this week, the City of Pocatello honored a drag queen story time group with their “Human and Civil Rights” award. They specifically lauded the group for providing “educational spaces for children”.

It’s clear that this award was given in response to recent protests by concerned parents against exposing children to drag events and the gender confusion they promote. It’s no exaggeration to say that there are people out there who really are after your kids and they will call anyone who stands up to them “bigoted” and “hateful.”

Drag story time for children is not just innocent fun. Drag queens are often highly sexualized and they deliberately blur the line between male and female. These events push a radical leftist ideology to confuse young children about their gender. It’s one thing for adults to choose to enjoy this type of activity, but another to push it onto innocent children.

The Idaho Republican Platform is explicit in its support of children and families. Children are the future, more precious than anything else in the world, and protecting them and their innocence is the paramount duty for all parents. Article XIV, Section 4 of the Platform states: “We strongly oppose any person, entity, or policy that attempts to confuse minors regarding their biological gender.”

Children deserve to be raised in an environment where they can safely grow and develop. Drag story times are designed to interrupt that process, to cause children to question ideas about sex and gender before they are mature enough for such subjects. They are designed to circumvent the role of parents in bringing their children up according to their values.

Republican elected officials must do their part to protect children from these overtly sexual and confusing performances. The question is not why children should be exposed to drag queens, but why adults with crossdressing fetishes are so interested in being around our children.

This is also a reminder that local elections are very important. This drag group was chosen to be honored by the Human Relations Advisory Committee, which is made up of people ultimately appointed by the mayor and city council of Pocatello. Voters need to start asking candidates for local office where they stand on sexualizing children, because it’s happening in communities all across our state and our nation.

One of the most important and most difficult duties of parents today is to protect the innocence of their children. It’s disappointing to see organizations and municipalities deliberately making this job that much harder.

The message from the Idaho Republican Party remains simple and clear: We will always oppose the sexualization and gender confusion of children.

99 Participants Complete Mayor’s Walking Challenge

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(Blue Cross of Idaho, November 9, 2023)

Idaho communities are receiving a record $86,500 for projects and programs that encourage physical activity, thanks to the efforts of 99 participants who successfully completed the Mayor’s Walking Challenge. The payout and number of winners are the most in the 10-year history of the annual statewide program offered by the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health.

There were 73 mayors who walked at least 10,000 steps per day in October and earned $1,000 for their communities. Two mayors – Crouch’s Trevor Schiefelbein and McCall’s Bob Giles – took more than 1,000,000 steps during the challenge. Mayors who walked at least 5,000 steps per day earned $500 for their communities. More importantly, they promoted the importance of physical activity while doing something that benefitted their own health – walking.

“The Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health is excited that the Mayor’s Walking Challenge continues to grow, and Idaho mayors are making a positive difference in their communities just by walking,” said Kendra Witt-Doyle, Executive Director, Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health. “Walking is one of the best things a person can do for his or health, and it has been truly inspiring to see so many Idaho mayors out walking in their communities this year.”

This year’s challenge included mayors from 42 of Idaho’s 44 counties. Many mayors took time to visit local schools and walk with students, letting them know how important it is to be physically active every day. Some mayors picked up litter on their walks and spent time meeting with residents while they were out walking and finding out what it’s like to be a pedestrian in their own community.

The Mayor’s Walking Challenge started as a regional program in 2014 and expanded it to a statewide event in 2018. Since its inception, mayors have earned more than $604,000 for their communities. Those funds have contributed to a variety of projects and programs that promote a healthy lifestyle around Idaho, including playgrounds, physical education equipment for schools, walking clubs, amenities at parks, scholarships for youth programs, and more.

This Weekend’s Holiday Activity Roundup

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December 2, 2023

Pocatello–If this week’s snowfall hasn’t gotten you into the Christmas spirit, there are a couple of events going on in town today that are sure to help you find that holiday cheer!

The Goodbye Hello Craft Show returns to the Mountain View Event Center today from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  The Facebook event notes read:

Craft show time is here again! Come join us on December 2nd from 10am-5pm at the Mountain View Event Center.
Over 130 vendors, ranging from handcrafted one-of-a-kind items, local small businesses, and delicious treats.
Something for everyone!
>>>FREE Admission<<< 

Pocatello’s Winter Wonderland Market will be held at the Bannock County Event Center today from 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m.  The Facebook event notes give all the details:

Experience the Magic of Pocatello’s Winter Wonderland Market!

Don’t Miss Out on the Festive Fun this December 2, 2023

Get ready to step into a winter wonderland like no other! Pocatello’s Winter Wonderland Market is here this year. Come join us for a day of festive fun, where we’ll have something for everyone. Our event is filled with vendors, artists, crafters, face painting, and so much more! Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just want to soak up the holiday spirit, we’ve got you covered. Best of all, bring the family along for free digital photos with Santa Claus himself! Our Winter Wonderland Market is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit with the whole family.

You won’t want to miss this magical event, with plenty of opportunities to start your holiday shopping and find some treasures you won’t find anywhere else. We’ll have tons of vendors selling handmade crafts, festive decor, delicious treats, and more. Be sure to check out our amazing artists and crafters, who will have unique one-of-a-kind pieces for you to take home. And don’t forget to bring the kids- they’ll love the face painting and free photos with Santa Claus, the perfect way to capture your magical day at Winter Wonderland.

Our winter wonderland is the perfect stop for all your holiday shopping needs. Whether it’s a special gift for a loved one or a special piece to decorate your own home, you’ll find it here. Don’t miss out on this fantastic chance to embrace the holiday season and share it with those you love. So come on down and share in the magic- we can’t wait to see you there!

Admission is FREE!

AG Labrador’s Letter: Idaho’s Gold Star Families

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(Office of the Attorney General, December 1, 2023)

Dear Friends,

This holiday season, I was deeply honored when Idaho’s Star Garnet Chapter of the American Gold Star Mothers asked me to host their Hero Tree in the rotunda of the Idaho State Capitol. The tree was created and meticulously researched by Anna Workman, the director of the Sgt. Chris Workman Memorial Scholarship Fund. The tree itself is beautiful and is a seamless complement as the statehouse decorates for the season with wreaths and boughs, ribbons and lights.

But despite the festivity, there is a solemnity about this particular tree.  In each handmade ceramic ornament is a picture of a fallen Idaho soldier, sailor, or airman – 83 in all – since the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Those are 83 Idaho families for whom Christmas is a more somber time – a time of reflection on the sacrifices that have been made so we can wake up on Christmas morning surrounded by family and the joy that the season brings us, free from fear, free from oppression, and free from tyranny.  Our Republic preserved, for now, kept per the admonishment of Benjamin Franklin.

This is the Gold Star gift to us.  Lovingly given without asking anything in return, except remembrance.  I am honored and humbled to see this tree and those faces every day when walking into my office, and I could not be more proud to host it at the capitol.  I ask only one thing on behalf of our Gold Star families – be the kind of American worthy of such a profound sacrifice.  It is the very least we can do for those fallen and their families.

I welcome and encourage you all to stop by the capitol and see this magnificent tree for yourselves and take the time to see those faces who sacrificed everything for us.

Attend the AMVETS Monthly Breakfast Today and Support Toys for Tots

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December 2, 2023

This morning you can help support the Marine Corps League’s Toys for Tots program by attending the AMVETS Monthly Breakfast!  The breakfast is held at the Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building, 300 N. Johnson Avenue.  Breakfast will be served from 8:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

The monthly breakfast, a staple in Pocatello, is held on the first Saturday in every month.  It includes eggs, hash browns, bacon, two kinds of sausage, biscuits & gravy, pancakes, coffee, and orange juice.  Kids under 5 eat free!

Southeast Idaho Toys for Tots will be working at the breakfast for tips, donations, and toys.  This month, one unwrapped toy equals one free breakfast!

This month’s breakfast will also include some special surprises.  On their Facebook page, AMVETS Post 1 has the details:

Goody bags for the first 100 people!

Courtesy of our amazing sponsors…

Chris Foulkrod-Keller Williams Realty East Idaho, Find Your Road Home Shyanne Raj Steed with Vandyk Mortgage.

Graham cracker houses for the first 50 kids to decorate.
Aannnnd perhaps a surprise visitor….!

We’ll see you Saturday. Bring the family, bring some toys for Southeast Idaho Toys for Tots

For more information, view or click on the image, below, to visit the AMVETS FB page.

Anonymous Donor Sponsors Dog and Puppy Adoptions

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(City of Pocatello Press Release, November 30, 2023)

The Pocatello Animal Shelter is delighted to announce a special sponsorship for dog adoptions, generously funded by an anonymous donor. Effective immediately, adoption fees for all dogs in search of loving homes will be sponsored by an anonymous donor until the end of the year or until funds are exhausted.

“We are incredibly grateful for the kindness of our anonymous donor, whose generosity will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the lives of our shelter dogs,” said Sarah Moore, Administrative Assistant at the Pocatello Animal Shelter.

The anonymous benefactor’s commitment to the welfare of animals in our community will make the dream of a forever home a reality for many dogs at the Pocatello Animal Shelter. If you are looking to adopt, feel free to stop by the shelter, located at 3100 Avenue of the Chiefs in Pocatello. Who knows, you might find the perfect pet waiting for you.

For more information on Pocatello Animal Services and to view adoptable pets, visit pocatello.gov/animal, call 208-234-6156, or like the department’s Facebook page at facebook.com/PocatelloAnimalServices.

Hours of operation:

  • Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Saturday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Closed on Sundays and Holidays

Pocatello Animal Shelter is accessible to persons with disabilities. Program access accommodations may be provided with two (2) days’ advance notice by contacting Skyler Beebe at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.

Check Your Holiday Lighting for Safety

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(Idaho Power News Brief, November 28, 2023)

Hundreds of fires and injuries occur each year from holiday decorations, so add this safety checklist from Idaho Power to your list of pre-holiday preparations.

  • Use LED lights, which are more efficient and safer than incandescent bulbs because they produce less heat.
  • Use battery-operated, flameless candles instead of traditional candles.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct number of light strands to connect.
  • Inspect power/extension cords and light strings, and replace anything that’s damaged or frayed.
  • Don’t place cords where they can be damaged by walking on them, where people can trip on them, or where damage can go unnoticed — like under rugs, through windows, or on the sidewalk.
  • Don’t overload outlets or power strips, and don’t plug electric heaters into power strips.
  • Plug outdoor lights (rated for outdoor use) into ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected outlets.
  • When hanging holiday lights using a ladder, have a spotter and always maintain three points of contact.

For more seasonal safety tips, visit idahopower.com/safety.

IDGOP Announces Vivek Ramaswamy Has Filed His Candidacy for the Republican Presidential Caucus

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(Idaho GOP Press Release, November 29, 2023)

Boise–The Idaho Republican Party is pleased to announce the fourth filing of a declaration of candidacy for the 2024 Presidential Caucus.

Today, Vivek Ramaswamy officially submitted his declaration and filing fee to the Idaho Republican Party headquarters. In doing so, he conveyed his unwavering commitment to tackling the pressing challenges confronting our nation and advocating for the cherished values and principles upheld by Republicans. Vivek Ramaswamy is an American business leader and bestselling author of several books, including Woke, Inc: Inside Corporate America’s Social Justice Scam.

Dorothy Moon, Chairwoman of the Idaho Republican Party, commented, “The legitimacy of the Idaho Republican Presidential Caucus is indisputable, as evidenced by the candidate commitments to participate. We are thrilled to host a robust Presidential Caucus on March 2nd, where individuals will be given the opportunity to express their dedication to addressing crucial national issues. With a commitment to championing Republican values and principles, Idaho emerges as a significant voice in the upcoming presidential race in 2024.”

The Idaho Republican Party is committed to upholding the principles of our constitutional republic, overseeing a caucus process characterized by fairness and transparency, ensuring that it accurately reflects the collective will of the Republican voters.

Guest Column–Brent Regan’s ‘Common Sense’: Libertarian Fascist

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November 29, 2023

Libertarian Fascist

By: Brent Regan

Brent Regan (photo credit: Brent Regan FB)
In politics, if you are effective you get called a lot of names. The reason is simple, if you are wrong, people simply could point out that you are wrong. However, if you are right, and effective, and you have a persuasive argument, then critics need to devolve to the next lower level of argumentation, name calling. Ad hominem attack: if you can’t fight the argument, attack the man.The ongoing success of grassroots conservative Republicans has put progressive Republicans and their Democrat allies in a bit of a lather and the name calling has gone from amusing to pathetic. The traditional tropes of racist, white supremacist and extremist have been leveled with such banal repetition as to have lost all effectiveness. New invectives are needed but these midwits lack the required creativity so they fall back on uttering random “bad” words in a pale aping of Orwellian Newspeak resulting in bastardizations such as “Libertarian Fascist.” Let’s examine this nonsensical epithet.

Generally speaking, I like libertarians. I have many libertarian friends. They make good neighbors because they understand that their rights end where mine begin and that government should be as tiny as possible. A society composed entirely of Libertarians would be a nice place to live with people respecting each other and generally getting along despite their differences.

Unfortunately, having a Libertarian only society is not practical because Libertarian ideals depend on personal responsibility with minimal coercion. If you throw one irresponsible person into the mix the resulting chaos is highly disruptive. Solzhenitsyn observed that the line between good and evil runs through the center of every man’s heart so removing evil is impossible. Evil can only be managed, which is what society attempts to do with the law.

Republicans believe in protecting individual rights. A Republican form of government, guaranteed by our Constitution, is a system of laws that provide for the administration of justice. Laws protect the individual from the menace of the herd by standing between the individual and the “will of the people.” Unfortunately we have been witnessing the rapid decay of law in the face of public opinion and we must work to reconstitute law and order if our society is to survive.

Fascism emerged in the early twentieth century and shares many totalitarian characteristics of socialism and communism. Fascist dictator Mussolini and National Socialist dictator Hitler were allies. Some of the key attributes of 20th century fascism include government control or regulation of industry, government control of education, that children belong to the state and not their parents, government control of the media, government censorship of speech, government establishing Ministry of Truth to control information so that it complies with the official position, political crimes selectively prosecuted in criminal courts, political prisoners incarcerated without trial, strict gun control including confiscation of firearms from individuals, demand strict adherence to the official narrative or ideology, elevation of “group rights” above individual rights, and the overarching justification that these actions are required for the “greater good of society.”Clearly if the Republican Party Platform were to be subjected to a Fascism Test, it would fail absolutely. Republicans believe in the free market, school choice, minimal regulation, are pro family, pro free speech, believe in equal protection under the law, that all political power rests with the individual, that it is an individual’s right to bear arms, that laws should protect the minority from the majority, and that a healthy society is based on the freedom of the individual. If you believe in these things you are likely a Republican and not a fascist.

Those that try to tie Republican to fascism use sophistry, arguing that Republicans have laws and fascists have laws so they are the same. This completely ignores the diametrically opposed nature of those two groups of laws. The better explanation is that the accusers are students of Saul Alinsky and are exercising one of the Rules for Radicals; accuse your opponent of the crimes you commit.

So in the 21st century, where has the ideology of fascism settled? We don’t need to look far as there is a party that embraces the policies and features of fascism. Policies and features that include the heavy regulation of industry and production to the point of extinction, government schools with zero accountability and forced attendance, diminishment of parental rights, forced speech by making the incorrect use of preferred pronouns criminal, government control of media, government regulation of social media, “Fact Checkers,” strict gun control and regulation, promotion of Cancel Culture, promotion of Social Justice for the punishment of those that stray from the official narrative, the unequal application of the law, use of the legal system to prosecute political opponents, strict adherence to the official narrative regardless of how ridiculous and absurd, and the overarching justification that these measures are needed for the collective good and to be “kind” to the “oppressed.”

The reasoned conclusion is both clear and inevitable. The twenty first century progressive Democrats, and their allies, have become the vessel of modern fascism.

When a Democrat calls you a fascist, just smile knowing that they are accusing you of the crimes they commit.

It’s just common sense.

Idaho Homeowners Receive Average 18% Property Tax Reduction

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(Governor’s Office Press Release, November 29, 2023)

Boise – Property tax bills arrive in Idahoans’ mailboxes across the state this week, and in most counties, taxpayers will see huge reductions in year-over-year taxes due to the historic property tax relief bill championed by Governor Brad Little and the Idaho Legislature this year.

The average reduction in property taxes for Idaho homeowners is approximately 18-percent. The average reduction in property taxes for all property taxpayers, including commercial, is nearly 14-percent.

The State of Idaho provided a new spreadsheet showing the total $314 million breakdown by county. That new spreadsheet is available at this link: https://gov.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/hb292-tax-savings-summary.xlsx

“Idaho already has the third lowest property taxes in the country, and we took steps this year to lower them further. Idaho has delivered more tax relief per capita than any other state, and we’re proud to turn money back to the hardworking people of our state while making critical investments in schools and infrastructure to keep up with growth,” Governor Little said.

In his 2023 State of the State and Budget Address in January, Governor Little announced his budget would include property tax relief for Idahoans clamoring for relief amid rapid increases in property values due to our state’s record growth over the past few years. Working together, the Governor and legislators got property tax relief done right and delivered $314 million in enduring property tax relief in the first year as part of House Bill 292.

More than $106 million in state General Fund dollars was deployed at the end of August to school districts across Idaho. The breakdown by school district is available at this link:

https://gov.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-school-district-facilities-relief.xlsx

As Governor Little noted in his 2023 State of the State and Budget Address in January, when the State of Idaho invests more in public schools and local needs, property taxpayers see the benefits.

“There is no doubt Idaho’s tremendous pace of growth is putting a strain on services at the local level, which increases the potential to drive up your local property taxes. But too often, we are simply shifting burdens across taxpayers when we should be addressing the needs head-on. Let us work on better ways to facilitate growth paying for growth and give local governments the tools they need to keep taxes low. How? By continuing to make long-range strategic investments in schools, roads, water, and other key areas to maintain our high quality of life,” Governor Little said in his speech.