LOCAL RN FINDS HER RHYTHM TEACHING ZUMBA PAGE 20 ON THE COVER
editor’s note
BEYOND FITNESS
Maudie Heard
Fitness is an important step in any routine. Whether it’s yoga, strength training, kickboxing, CrossFit, or Zumba, including fitness in your life promotes longevity, better sleep, reduces stress, and improves mental health, to name a few benefits.
But beyond fitness is fun and a found family.
Zumba instructor Sheandi Richins brings the fun to fitness at Club Apple. Her enthusiastic energy and friendliness invite anyone to come and have fun while dancing. Read more about Zumba on page 20.
And when finding a family through fitness, CrossFit coach Michelle Palmer knows it all too well. Over the years she’s found a community in the fitness world, and when she opened Tsavo CrossFit, she gave the community a place to find their own fitness family. Read more about Michelle on page 24.
In this Health & Fitness issue of Idaho Falls Magazine, you will discover how Zumba instructor Sheandi Richins finds her rhythm, how CrossFit coach Michelle Palmer leads by example, health tips and much more.
events
SEPTEMBER EVENTS
6
THE TETON TOYOTA CHANGING SEASONS 5K
This inaugural race put on by the Idaho Falls Chukars and Spud Kings will take runners from the Melaleuca Field and continue down the Green Belt up through Snake River Landing, finishing the race at the Teton Toyota Plaza, where players from both the Chukars and Spud Kings will help celebrate with you at the finish line.
Parents and kids ages 2-5, explore a new topic each month through crafts, games, songs and snacks.
TIME: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
LOCATION: Museum of Idaho
CONTACT: 208-522-1400 www.museumofidaho.org
6
ART OF GOLF
Join the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho for its 22nd annual ART of Golf Tournament. Held at Pinecrest Golf Course, this event will have a shotgun start, scramble format, free art prints, and a BBQ following the event. Register on www.theartmuseum.org
Get ready to sip on your favorite drinks and groove to the beats of the wildest music at the Sippin' Safari Concert Series 2025.
TIME: 5:30
LOCATION: Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park CONTACT: 208-612-8552 | tpzs.info/events
19
MASQUERADE BALL
Get ready to dance the night away and embrace the mystery at the unforgettable Masquerade Ball. Dress to impress and head over to the Idaho Falls Zoo for this night full of food, dancing and music. Must be 21+.
TIME: 5:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park CONTACT: 208-612-8552 | tpzs.info/events
20
SPUD DAY
The annual Spud Day event hosts a full day’s worth of activities, including a pancake breakfast, community run/ walk, parade, car show, potato baking contest, potato picking contest, sack races and much more.
TIME: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
LOCATION: Shelley Park CONTACT: 208-681-4089 | www.idahospudday.com
20
DISCOVERY DAY
Kids ages 6-12, enjoy fun hands-on learning in a new STEM topic each month
TIME: 1:30-3 p.m.
LOCATION: Museum of Idaho CONTACT: 208-522-1400 | www.museumofidaho.org
27
OKTOBERFEST
This family-friendly event features live music, food and beverages, fun contests and a whole lot of fun. Join downtown for this party on Park Ave.
TIME: 3-7 p.m.
LOCATION: Park Ave. CONTACT: www.downtownidahofalls.com
around town
ROAD TRIP OF THE MONTH: MESA FALLS
Traveling to Mesa Falls is a one-of-a-kind experience, especially in the Fall months. The Mesa Falls Nature Trail is a 2-mile scenic hike that’s popular for birding, hiking and running. This hike takes about 40 minutes to complete and when finished, leads to a beautiful sight of the Henry’s Fork surrounded by forest and a scenic view of the waterfalls.
COMMUNITY SHOE BOX RETURNS WITH SPECIAL COLLAB
The annual shoe drive, Community Shoe Box, is returning for its third year and has partnered with the Idaho Falls Chukars and Spud Kings to get shoes to those in need.
Inspired by the Wall of Warmth, the Community Shoe Box has a similar goal—to get shoes to those who need them—and with this new partnership has strived to accumulate more donations to give back to the community. The donation drive will take place in front of Falls Printing
from Sept. 1 through Oct. 23, located at 190 1st St., and boxes will be set out front and organized by shoe size. Those who want to donate can easily drop a pair of shoes in the appropriate size box, and those who need a pair can help themselves. A donation box will also be placed outside at the Idaho Falls Chukars games on Sept. 4-5.
For more information, call Maudie at 208-542-2206.
MAYOR CASPER PRESENTS SPECIAL MAYOR'S CHOICE AWARD TO CARRIE GETTY SCHEID
Mayor Rebecca Casper presented a special Mayor’s Choice Award to longtime community leader Carrie Getty Scheid, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the city of Idaho Falls.
“For more than 30 years, Carrie has helped shape Idaho Falls into the vibrant, compassionate and creative community we know and love today,” Mayor Casper said. “From the arts and animal welfare to civic engagement and philanthropy, her impact is immeasurable. It’s a true privilege to celebrate her legacy.”
Scheid played a key role in revitalizing downtown Idaho Falls. As the former executive director of the Idaho Falls Arts Council, she helped lead the $4.5 million restoration of the Colonial Theater and the development of the Willard Arts Center. Her efforts also supported the installation of public art, including the well-known art benches throughout downtown. She served on the Downtown Development Corporation board and other civic organizations for many years.
Performing Arts lobby expansion, helping raise $5 million toward the $7.2 million project. Before that, she oversaw fundraising for the Phase 1 renovation of the interior of the Frontier Center, including the installation of new seating.
Scheid’s work extended far beyond the arts. She helped launch Idaho Gives, one of the state’s most successful nonprofit fundraising initiatives, and served on numerous nonprofit boards throughout Idaho. She also helped found the Snake River Animal Shelter and served as a founding board member, helping create a safe space for thousands of animals in need.
She also managed a large email list known as “the Middle” to promote awareness and encourage a commonsense approach to Idaho politics.
Whether through public art, nonprofit advocacy or civic leadership, Carrie Getty Scheid dedicated her time, energy and passion to strengthening the Idaho Falls community.
Appointed in 2016 by Mayor Casper to the city’s Civic Center Advisory Committee, Scheid brought decades of expertise and leadership to the group. She was instrumental in guiding the capital campaign for the Frontier Center for the
“Carrie has poured her heart and soul into this city,” Mayor Casper said. “Her leadership has been generous, visionary and steadfast. We are all better because of her, and I was honored to present her with this award.”
around town
AQUATIC CENTER LAUNCHES FALL SWIM TEAM PROGRAM
Beginning on Sept. 6, the Wes Deist Aquatic Center is offering a new swim program that gives the youth something to do after school with the Surfers Swim Team.
This beginner to intermediate swim team program is perfect for your little swimmer, regardless if they are just starting to swim on their own or have completed a bunch of swim lessons. Practices will keep up their swimming skills, boost endurance and get them active after sitting at their desk all day. Practice one day/week or three days/weekyour choice. Build your own schedule with different levels, different days and for those with no school on Fridays - practices just added in at 2:30 p.m..
For more information, head to www. idahofallsidaho.gov/1740/Parks-Recreation.
DID YOU FIND ME?
Were you one of the first people to email once you found the water tower? For the August 2025 edition: The water tower was hiding on page 41.
Debbie Kay
Maria Villegas
Tina Villegas
Korinne Rasmussen
Jaysa Jo
Parker Donaldson
Sydney Franklin
Michelle Lerma
Gary Long
Sofia Ybarra
LET’S DO IT AGAIN! Once you find the water tower, email its location, your name and contact to maudie@idahofallsmagazine.com.
the Details
Details
Enveloped by a swarm of trees is this one-of-a-kind custom home featured in the 2024 Parade of Homes. Ashley Webb Interiors designed and Stevens Homes built this breathtaking home that took home several awards. The home’s unique architectural features and thoughtful design show this property is all about the details.
Built on 22 acres of land, it was designed and built to fit on the unique property to provide amazing views from every room while maintaining the functionality of the property with access to the existing pool from the indoor pickleball court, tennis courts and historic barn.
The historic charm of this home made it a mustsee during the Parade of Homes. In addition to the amazing architectural design, interior design and fine craftsmanship, this home was also furnished and decorated by Ashley Webb Interiors, who delicately paid attention to each detail and corner of the home.
Both the interior and exterior of this charming home speak for themselves, but so did the votes. This home ended up winning awards for Best Exterior, Best Landscaping, Best Kitchen, Best Master Suite, Celebrity Choice and People's Choice.
This light and airy home has several unique architectural features that capture a nod from the past. Its historic windows, lathe and plaster ceilings, custom milled trim moldings, and grand piano are all details that make this home stand out. So much so that it ended up winning Judge’s Choice in the 2024 Parade of Homes.
Right next to the main area is the spacious and bright kitchen that won the ‘Best Kitchen’ award. Its custom cabinetry, quartzite countertops, and limestone flooring that extends into the dining area turned this kitchen into an inviting and functional space.
The master bedroom, which also won an award for 'Best Master Suite,' carries the historic charm of this home throughout. Its high ceilings paired with large windows bring this suite to life, and it is elegantly decorated.
If you have an extra pair: PLEASE DONATE If you need a pair: PLEASE HELP YOURSELF
health & fitness LIFE IS HAPPIER WHEN YOU
LOCAL RN FINDS HER RHYTHM TEACHING ZUMBA
by rebecca blackson
The best way to keep up the exercise habit is to bust the boredom and just have fun. And if you can do that while getting a killer workout at the same time, you’ve just found the winning combination.
Take it from Sheandi Richins—a local registered nurse who balances her work as the Pediatric Trauma Manager at EIRMC with teaching a highoctane, energetic Zumba class at Club Apple.
“One thing I noticed when I started teaching Zumba is just how happy everybody was in the room. They smiled throughout the class and
consistently kept coming back. It's almost like we’re not working out because we’re having so much fun,” Sheandi laughed.
But don’t be fooled—Zumba is an intense workout. Full of Latin dance moves, upbeat party music, and aerobics, the popular group fitness class will keep you moving.
Sheandi explained, “Different songs in Zumba can take your heart rate up or keep your heart rate low. We incorporate toning exercises like squats and arm movements so you can target those larger muscle groups. It’s definitely a cardiothoracic workout.”
YOU DANCE
As a group fitness instructor for many years, Sheandi was lucky enough to be introduced to Zumba by the founder of the popular dance fitness format himself— Beto Perez from Columbia. She attended the World Fitness Convention in Las Vegas where Beto was debuting the new class format. While she loves dancing, she initially wasn’t a fan of the class.
“The first Zumba class I attended was hard to understand and even harder to follow. I actually didn’t like it,” Sheandi said.
But a few years later, after Beto had fine-tuned his program and teaching methodology, Sheandi attended a class by one of her fellow Apple instructors. At this point, the class was broken down into simpler steps. “It was just easier to follow and it was so fun! I grew up dancing and after that, I knew I wanted to get certified in Zumba.”
Sheandi found her Zumba rhythm and has been teaching the class for 16 years. “They've gotten so good at their program and give you so much education on how to teach that it really sets you up for success as an instructor,” she said. In fact, she’s leveled-up her own instructing skills and has become a Zumba Jammer, where she teaches other Zumba instructors new choreography and ways to sharpen their teaching skills.
“I get to travel all over the Northwestern part of the United States and offer choreography sessions
to instructors. They can learn different styles of choreography from me, and I share teaching tips like how to queue, how to level up a step, and how to progress the movements.
“The last seven years as a Jammer have been amazing. It’s really challenged me as an instructor, and I’ve loved seeing the Zumba community work with other instructors, trying to help them build up their classes and improve their teaching skills,” she said.
As someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment like a high-energy Zumba class, it should come as no surprise that Sheandi’s career has been spent in emergency rooms and hospital trauma units. She spent many years as an ER nurse, became the educator of that department, and now works as the Pediatric Trauma Manager with a focus on helping EIRMC become verified with the American College of Surgeons as a Pediatric Trauma Center.
“There’s an incredible amount of criteria that you have to pass to be a verified trauma center, so I’ve been working hard to implement the processes and policies to make us really good at taking care of pediatrics. We should probably get there in another year or two,” Sheandi explained.
As the largest hospital in the region, EIRMC receives many transfer patients from rural areas across Wyoming, Montana, and other
parts of Idaho. “We get an insane amount of transfers to our hospital from surrounding areas, and an especially high volume of pediatric patients, so it fills a really great need in the community. Families can stay closer to home instead of having to go to out of state,” Sheandi said.
Staying close to home is something Sheandi appreciates. Raised in Eastern Idaho, she loves the small, community feeling of Idaho Falls as well as the proximity to both the mountains and larger
cities. She said, “I love the variety of things you can do in this area. My husband and I love the outdoors and the small community feeling here. It’s been a great place for our family.”
As an enthusiast of community, energy, and exercise, Sheandi has found it all in Zumba. “What I love about Zumba is all the joy it’s brought me. I’ve consistently had the same group of people come to my class for a decade, and now we’re all such good friends. For me, it’s the best way to get a workout.”
health & fitness LEADS BY EXAMPLE
CrossFit Coach Michelle Palmer
by maudie heard
Sticking to a fitness routine can be challenging or intimidating, but having a good mentor can make all the difference. At CrossFit Tsavo, this fitness family all shares one goal—to be a better version of themselves. And co-owner Michelle Palmer does everything she can to motivate and encourage this fitness family.
Michelle is a certified CrossFit coach, but more than that, she’s her clients’ and members' biggest supporter. “My mission has always been to inspire people to believe they are more capable than they realize—to encourage them to step beyond their comfort zones, to find the courage to take on hard things, and to accomplish more than they ever thought possible,” Michelle said.
Michelle’s grit comes from a long background of strict fitness routines and regimes.
Growing up in an active family, she always saw the value in health and fitness in her and her family’s lives. From preschool all the way to college, dance was her biggest passion where discipline and hard work were instilled in her. These traits earned her a dance fellowship in college where she received a bachelor’s degree in sports science and physical education.
After college, she earned her license as a certified personal trainer, yoga and pilates instructor, and CrossFit level-1 trainer. Through her many fitness ventures, CrossFit became her greatest calling.
But before she found CrossFit, she pursued a number of other fitness goals. Throughout the years, Michelle has participated in a physique show, competed in an Olympic lifting meet and navigated her fitness goals during her pregnancies, all leading her to her next venture.
“Growing up as a dancer, fitness was always about cosmetic things. How much do you weigh, what do you look like, what's your body fat? So, I was always really fixated on that,” Michelle said. “When I found CrossFit, it changed everything for me.”
“All of a sudden fitness to me was about overall health and well-being, and being strong as a female, especially, more so than what I look like.”
After attending a CrossFit class with a friend, Michelle fell in love with this form of fitness. So much so that she went on to get certified as a CrossFit trainer, competing at a local and national levels. In 2021, she qualified and earned her place among just 20 women in the world to compete at the CrossFit Games, an achievement most will never experience. “I’m grateful for the blessing of that success and I felt a responsibility to share my journey with others.”
During COVID, people recognized Michelle’s strength and ability after the CrossFit Games and many began asking to train with her. When all of the other gyms were closed, she started letting a few people train in her garage gym, which led to the idea of opening her own gym.
In 2021, she opened CrossFit Tsavo, a gym focused on living a happy, healthy lifestyle, stronger minds, and especially being a part of a community of people with a similar drive to live better.
As a mother of three, Michelle’s fitness experience and knowledge reflects in the gym community she has created here, especially for other women and mothers.
“When I set out to build my gym, my vision was clear: to create a place where mothers could feel supported, where childcare was never a barrier, and where every member felt empowered to step outside their comfort zone,” she said. “I wanted to build more than a gym—I wanted to cultivate a community where people could gain confidence, discover strength they didn’t know they had, and accomplish things they once thought impossible.”
CrossFit Tsavo fosters growth by balancing members' physical health with an emphasis on mental health. “A lot of members come here because they want the community,” Michelle said. “You perform or work in a certain way when you're around people. You expect more of yourself when you're around people and it's more fun.”
All classes at the gym are coach-led and vary in weight and intensity so any body is able. Whether it be parents, professional athletes or seniors, CrossFit invites all fitness levels.
For more information about this gym community, head to www.crossfittsavo.com.
health & fitness How to Create a Healthy Lifestyle That Actually Sticks
Most people who start a new diet see success for a few days– maybe even weeks. But for many, the strict rules of diet trends eventually feel impossible to maintain. Frustration sets in, and suddenly those sugary snacks or fried foods become more tempting than ever.
Health is not black and white. It is complex. That means every person will need to find what works for them to achieve optimal health.
As a dietitian, I wish there were a one-size-fits-all plan I could hand every client on their first session that would automatically make my clients feel confident in their body, improve their bloodwork, and allow them to go out to eat at their favorite restaurants knowing exactly what to order to support their body. The truth is you can eat healthy most of the time and still not have the basics to make your healthy habits last.
TO BUILD THE STRONG FOUNDATION– START HERE:
Rethink your all-or-nothing mindset. Perfectionism is the enemy of long-term success. The majority of the clients I work with come to me trying to follow a set diet, just to get derailed by the donuts in the office. An all-ornothing mindset would encourage one to eat the donuts, then the pizza for dinner, and ice cream to follow, because the ‘day was already ruined’.
A balanced mindset gives a different perspective. You can enjoy the donut without guilt, then move on to the next choice with intention. By checking in with your body and letting each decision stand on its own, you create space for flexibility and progress.
Audit what habits are currently working. It can feel easy
to want to put everything into motion all at once, but that is going to be a lot harder to continue.
• If you already make dinner most nights, try adding in an extra vegetable.
• If you already walk your dog in the evening, go an extra 10 minutes.
• If you already have a habit of eating breakfast, try increasing the protein amount.
It is a lot easier to upgrade existing routines, than to startstarting from scratch.
Start with the basics. Healthy habits create a ripple effect. When sleep is poor, food choices often suffer. When nutrition is lacking, energy dips. When energy is low, movement becomes harder.
Instead of tackling everything at once, ask yourself: ‘What is the smallest change that will make the biggest difference?’
For example, if you find yourself overeating at night, check in on your daytime eating. Skipping breakfast or eating too little during the day often leads to evening cravings. Start by making breakfast balanced and consistent—you might be surprised how much your nighttime snacking improves.
It is a fact that not one diet fits all. Your health habits need to be individualized to your genes, lifestyle, diet history, and so much more. To learn more about how you can take actions over your health contact me, Emily Sucher, Registered Dietitian at www.livewelldietitian. com to get your insurance verified and start your nutrition support.
by emily sucher, registered dietitian
It’s a sense of nostalgia when you walk into Dixie’s Diner in Idaho Falls. The red interior, the jukeboxes at the booths filled with music, and the comforting food have been around for two decades this coming October.
The joint opened in 2005 and will be celebrating its 20th anniversary on Sept. 10. The “Funtastic Fall Hot Rod Night and 20th Anniversary” will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
There’s a car show, giveaways and prizes all night, outside seating and carhop service. Carhop service is where servers deliver food and drinks to customers in their cars. There’s 20% off all day long, too.
“I’m thankful that our community has embraced us,” said Tom Hersh, owner and manager of Dixie’s Diner. “A lot of my servers have been with me since we opened. We just have that feel.”
Located at 2150 Channing Way, the old-school, retro diner takes you right back to the 1950s. It has a welcoming atmosphere, tasty food and quick service.
‘A Americana.’ DIXIE’S DINER
slice of
‘A little Americana.’
DINER TO CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF BUSINESS
by andrea olson
“I would say that we're just a little slice of Americana. Everything about us is local. We're one location. We’re not a chain. We're family-oriented. We're community-oriented,” Hersh said. “We don't ever try to be something that we're not. We know what we are. We're a diner. We serve you nice, big portions at a fair price.”
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served all day long, and there’s a wide variety of food to choose from.
“We hand-bread our chicken-fried steak; it is a very popular item. We make our own sausage for chorizo, and we sell a lot of Southwest flared stuff: an omelette, a skillet, a burrito,” he said.
The burgers are popular as well. The meat is sourced from Kuna, Idaho, so it’s all relatively local. They batter their fish for fish and chips. There are homemade soups, milkshakes and more.
“My favorite food is probably our corned beef combo, which is kind of like a reuben only with coleslaw instead of sauerkraut,” he said.
Hersh said he enjoys coming to work every day. A lot of it has to do with the fact that he sees his regulars. He’s also proud of the people he works with.
For those who have never tried Dixie’s Diner, Hersh invites them in to taste it for themselves.
“They're going to get treated like a regular, the first time they walk in the door. I mean, that's something that I think we're good at,” he said. “We pride ourselves on the fact that we're a real solid choice for people to come to eat.” Dixie’s Diner is open seven days a week, Sunday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday to Saturday until 9 p.m.
As Hersh looks back on the last 20 years and looks forward to the future with Dixie’s Diner, he’s grateful.
“Sometimes it almost just overwhelms me, the support that we've gotten and how fortunate we've been. I mean, I don't call it lucky because you kind of make your own luck, but we've definitely been fortunate here in this location and the way that the community has supported us,” he said. “It's just been a great 20 years.”
faces of the falls
Meet Amy Tracy, CARNIVORE KEEPER AT THE IDAHO FALLS ZOO
by maudie heard
The Idaho Falls Zoo is a place where the community can engage with the natural world by seeing animals up close, making memories with family and friends and learning about a variety of different species. And behind the scenes are a group of people who are passionate about animals, education and conservation, and who care for these animals.
One being Amy Tracy, the zoo’s primary carnivore keeper. “I’ve always had a passion for animals my whole life,” Amy said. “I always thought I wanted to be a vet tech or something like that. Then I started working here.”
At the age of 14, Amy started volunteering for the zoo under the Junior Zoo Crew where she fell in love with the aspects of the job. She went on to apply for the kid zookeeper position, and for the past 10 years has been a year-round zookeeper at this local zoo.
“I’ve been at this zoo my whole life,” she said. “I love the size of it. We all know each other and we're friends, and we connect with each other really well. We're just a really good community, and we've got a good variety of animals to work with, which is really fun.”
As the zoo's carnivore keeper, Amy’s days are spent caring for the large cats, fennec foxes, sloth bears, camels and red pandas. Her work includes live checking the animals, prepping their yards and providing them with any of the medical care they require.
Amy also ensures that the animals’ physical and mental well-being is catered to with an individualized approach and weekly enrichment practices. “We make sure that whatever diets we're giving them, whatever enrichment we're giving them, it's geared toward that individual,” she said. “So for carnivores,
we do a lot of meat-type enrichment, searching for and tearing things apart, which is very natural.”
Amy goes above and beyond for the animals in her care, but it doesn’t come without its challenges.
“Working with wild animals, every day is so different,” she said. “You can come in with a plan. But until you get here, you don't know what your day is going to be like.”
Before moving into the carnivore keeper position, Amy worked with most of the animals in the zoo at one time or another. Over the years she has developed a deeper passion for animals, but one of the things she’s most proud of is implementing the zoo’s wallaby desensitizing program.
“Wallabies tend to be very leery of people. With Amy’s initiative we have successfully hand-raised five joeys, including three that still live here,” according to the Idaho Falls Zoo. “Getting them used to being around and handled by people and in doing so have made our entire mob overall more comfortable and less stressed when interacting with keepers or when medical or husbandry procedures are needed.”
Aside from her daily tasks and the strides she’s made, she enjoys connecting with and educating others. “I love being a keeper and working with the animals, but also being able to educate the people,” she said. “I love being able to talk to people and help them make a connection with these animals.”
Whether it’s educating zoo patrons or members of the community, the knowledge she’s gained over the years has been influential to the Idaho Falls Zoo.
“I love this work because I can work with the animals every single day and actually build a connection with them.”
business spotlight
As Idaho Fall grows, more services and businesses are becoming available for people to enjoy. One such business is Avanti Body, a weight-loss and wellness spa.
Wife and husband Debbie and Shane Olson have owned the spa since the location opened in March 2024. Avanti Body is a franchise that started in California.
“The owner's name is Terri Simpson, and she’s a friend of ours,” Debbie said. “We know her from some other business opportunities and organizations and so as she built her franchise, we just became more and more interested in the opportunity and decided to take the jump.”
Avanti Body is a red light therapy center. Debbie said red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that can help with skin health, reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and supporting fat loss.
While red light therapy is available at multiple places, Avanti Body offers a way to get better results. They use medicalgrade pads to provide more coverage.
“Proximity to the skin is important,” Debbie said. “We physically wrap customers in the pads and we can get most of the body covered, so the results from our pads are going to be seen much quicker.”
Debbie said oftentimes people will come to the spa to try red light therapy for weight loss, and end up returning for all the other benefits.
“It will help with many other things,” she said. “It can help with thyroid health, it can help with neuropathy, it can help with arthritis. We like to say that it can help heal your body from the inside out.”
While receiving red light therapy, customers can also be under an anti-aging light.
Avanti Body also has a 3D body scanner. The scanner gives information on fat content, probability of disease, bone mass, and muscle mass. Using that information, Avanti Body creates a comprehensive analysis and helps customers set specific goals.
by karcin harris
AVANTI Body
After doing the light therapy, customers can stand on a vibration plate. Additionally, they can use the FabShaper machine.
“It has a circuit of 17 positions that starts with your calves, works its way up to your body and ends on your back and shoulders,” Debbie said. “The machine is good for your circulation, your surface level fat, your fascia, and muscle recovery. It's really good for people to go to the gym quite often. They like to come in and use it because it helps work the soreness out of their muscles.”
Avanti Body is located at 3393 Merlin Drive in Suite B in Idaho Falls.
“Our consultation fee is only $29 and that gives visitors access to try everything that we offer,” Debbie said. “It's a really valuable offer. I would just encourage anyone to get in and try that while it’s so inexpensive.”
Artists: Gloria Miller Allen • Linda Aman
• Daniel Borup • Mary Ann Cherry
• Sally Cannon Ellis • Marilyn Hansen
• Joe Keller • Rett Longmore • Ruth Nordstrom
• Bernadette Regnier • Les Scott • Marina Zavalova
Downtown Idaho Falls is filled with an abundance of unique shops and restaurants that have stood the test of time.
One such shop is Lemon Meringue, a boutique that’s been one of downtown’s hidden gems for over two decades.
This gift shop is owned by Annette Black, but before she became the shop’s owner, it was owned by Sue Rothermel who carried on the original owner’s vision to bring one-of-a-kind home decorations, trinkets and gifts to the community. The same vision that Anette has carried on since she bought the business over a decade ago.
“I worked here for about two weeks, and I knew she was trying to sell it,” Annette said. “So I went home to my husband and I said, ‘Well, I think I'm going to buy the business.’ He goes, ‘You're kidding.’ And I said, ‘No.”
Purchasing this boutique is one of Annette’s greatest accomplishments and what motivates her every day.
Looking back, she says she stepped into the role of a business owner feeling confident and sure it was the right decision. “It was a happy store. You feel comfortable in it. Everybody that comes in here, even now, says they feel comfortable,” she said. “They like to walk around and look, and there's no pressure. Everybody just enjoys it and loves the store.”
To this day, Lemon Meringue is a happy store. The shop is filled with a variety of hand soaps, lotions, jewelry, home decor and kitchen items. A little bit of everything, according to Annette.
One of the shop’s most notable features is its gift wrapping service. “We like to give customers a little something because of the way everything goes sometimes. A little something to cheer them up by doing their gift wrapping,” Frankie Browning, long-time employee of Lemon Meringue said.
Frankie has worked alongside Annette at the shop for several years and has grown to love downtown and supporting the local community as much as Annette. “Sometimes we deliver to their homes if they can't make it in,” Annette said. “So we enjoy doing stuff for people. It's like the old times when you went shopping, everybody's more personable. I think that's what we are, more personable.”
Being a part of downtown and supporting locals is a driving force for the shop. Inside you will even find an abundance of unique greeting cards created and painted by local artists.
Aside from taking pride in the shop’s unique products, Annette is simply happy to meet and chat with people who come through downtown. “It's been fun,” she said. “We've made friends and met a lot of nice, wonderful people.”
And while this boutique has stood the test of time, it didn’t come without its challenges. Over the years, there were bumps in the road and especially when COVID hit and shopping slowed down. “It's just hard to have these things happen, but this little store just keeps going,” Annette said.
Looking to the future, she hopes to pass the legacy of the store on when she eventually retires, but for now, Annette and Frankie both put their all into this downtown shop. “This store is keeping us going. It's giving us something to wake up to and go do something instead of just laying there and being bored,” Annette said. “It's been a great journey.”
ASIAN FLAVORS
THAI KITCHEN
KRUNG THEP
FUJI HIBACHI & SUSHI
YUMMY
sports THE IDAHO FALLS SPUD KINGS
Are for The Fans
by amber
Since the Idaho Falls Spud Kings first hit the ice in 2023, the team has fed off its fans. And their fan support has only grown over the past two seasons of this minor league hockey team.
“For us as a team with the following that we have, it is important that we engage and embrace the fans of our team. One of the reasons why we are successful on the ice is because of the community support this team has had before the puck even dropped at the Mountain America Center,” said Erik Hudson.
Since Anthony Bohne has stepped in as the team’s head coach, the Spud King’s team has only evolved. “Continuing the community support with the style of play that our team has captured since Coach Bohn has been at the helm, our momentum is apparent and it has allowed us to recruit players that match the brand of hockey we want to play to be successful,” said Erik.
Since their debut, this hockey team has become a community commodity and not just for hockey fans. Going to the Mountain America Center to watch these players play on the ice is a thrilling and enjoyable experience for anyone, and why their fan base has grown so much.
“The pride of our fans is so great, it’s important to our organization that the experience at the arena and the product on the ice meet and exceed expectations,” said Erik. “Our goal at the end of the day is to develop our players into great young men, as well as to put a winning product on the ice for our fans to celebrate and enjoy.”
As they gear up for the 2025-26 season, they are excited to share another season with their fans and the community. “We hope to bring in the right people into our Idaho Falls community and hockey family and by doing that we hope to put a good product on the ice that the community can be proud of,” said Coach Bohne.
For tickets, visit www.ifspudkings.com or call 208-522-8363.
OCTOBER
Oct. 16 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Rock Springs Miners
NOVEMBER
Nov. 7 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Ogden Mustangs
Nov. 21 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Casper Warbirds
Nov. 22 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Ogden Mustangs
Nov. 28 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Utah Outliers
DECEMBER
Dec. 4 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Rock Springs Miners
Dec. 18 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Rock Springs Miners
Dec. 19 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Casper Warbirds
Dec. 20 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Casper Warbirds
Dec. 30 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Ogden Mustangs
JANUARY
Jan. 2 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Pueblo Bulls
Jan. 3 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Pueblo Bulls
Jan. 9 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Grand Junction River Hawks
Jan. 10 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Grand Junction River Hawks
Jan. 16 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Pueblo Bulls
Jan. 17 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Pueblo Bulls
Jan. 21 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Ogden Mustangs
Jan. 29 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Utah Outliers
Jan. 30 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Utah Outliers
FEBRUARY
Feb. 19 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Grand Junction River Hawks
Feb. 20 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Casper Warbirds
MARCH
Mar. 4 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Utah Outliers
Mar. 28 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Rock Springs Miners
DIRECTIONS
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Sweet Potatoes
in the kitchen
Looking for an easy side dish that goes with practically everything?
If you’re tired of the same old roasted vegetables, these roasted sweet potato cubes are about to become your new favorite. They’re the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners when you need something quick and nutritious on the table, and they work just as well for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
The best part? All you need are sweet potatoes, a few basic seasonings, and about 30 minutes in the oven. Trust me – these crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside cubes will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
INGREDIENTS
3 large sweet potatoes
3 tbs olive oil
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 tsp onion powder
1 1/2 tsp paprika
1 tbs brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
by molly brown
www.mollyshomguide.com
3 large sweet potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Peel the sweet potatoes and slice each potato lengthwise.
Slice each half into three equal parts, then cut the pieces into cubes, ensuring they are as evenly sized as possible for uniform cooking.
Step 2: Season the Sweet Potatoes
3 tbs olive oil
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 tsp onion powder
1 1/2 tsp paprika
1 tbs brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Transfer the cubed sweet potatoes into a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle 3 tablespoons of olive oil over the sweet potatoes, and toss everything together well to ensure each piece is coated.
Add 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons of onion powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the bowl. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring everything is thoroughly mixed and evenly coated.
Step 3: Arrange for Roasting
Pour the seasoned sweet potato cubes onto a well-greased baking pan.
Spread them out into a single layer, spacing them out sufficiently to allow air to circulate around each piece during roasting. This helps achieve a beautiful caramelization.
Step 4: Roast and Test for Doneness
Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes.
Use a spatula to toss the pieces every 10 minutes to prevent burning and promote even cooking.
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the sweet potatoes; they should be very soft inside when fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized to your liking, remove them from the oven.
Allow them to cool for a few minutes, then serve as a delightful side dish or enjoy on their own.
Revel in the sweet and savory flavors of your roasted sweet potatoes!
OVEN ROASTED SWEET POTATO CUBES
celebrate life
RIPPLE EFFECTS OF KINDNESS
by susan stucki
Acts of service inspire others to give back, creating a ripple effect of positive change within the community. To illustrate the difference one can make, the donated cereal boxes from the July JustServe night at Chukars game were taken to the Community Food Basket where they were positioned around the warehouse. On cue, one tiny little push of the first box set all the others toppling over one by one until the very last box was lying down, a visual reminder of the “domino effect” of kindness.
Like the domino effect of those cereal boxes, one act of kindness fosters another, then another, and ultimately the whole community is blessed.
A recent community service experience was inspiring. Team members of the Idaho Falls Chukars baseball team were invited to take time out of their busy schedule to serve at the local Soup Kitchen. Every participant enjoyed their time serving patrons a hot lunch.
“It’s been awesome and it’s great to help in the community and see all these people coming in here to get fed. It is awesome to give back,” noted one response.
Another’s reply was, “It’s always great to serve in the community, especially you know how Idaho Falls supports us, so this is the least we can do, so it’s been a great experience. It’s always good to be with your teammates and have that camaraderie. I feel honored to be here, actually.”
Another enthusiastic player who was preparing to dish up plates behind the counter shared, “It’s fun to get back here and see how everything happens and be a real part of it”. And another, “It’s been awesome, man, just helping the community and seeing all the people get fed. It’s a good feeling to give back.”
The patrons were excited to be served their lunch by some of the Chukars.
The ripple effect of kindness, of serving, comes back to bless the
person who served while that service has elevated the quality of the day for the recipient. Studies show that service reduces stress and elevates our moods and emotions like happiness and optimism. When life is overwhelming, taking time out to serve others puts things into perspective and energizes the person who is serving.
Kevin Cutler, a member of the Exchange Club, has found fulfillment in service that extends from our local children to our local veterans. He and his family experience great satisfaction helping at each annual Memorial Day Field of Honor exhibit at Freeman Park. “I get to see everything from little kids running through the 1,000 waving flags and laughing, without a care in the world, to World War II veterans, sitting in their wheelchairs, crying, remembering their fallen brothers.” Proceeds from that event fund their mission of preventing child abuse and crime.
Providing service opportunities for teens sets up productive, lifetime habits where there is no end to the positive rippling effect.
One mother recently shared, “Before my children are grown and gone, I want to teach them to serve people out in the community. As humans we always keep ourselves so busy that we don’t think about all the people. I want them to create a habit of service, to open their hearts to others before they leave our home.”
Campaigns like National Day of Service, Remember by Serving, remind us that service matters. We honor those who lost their lives as we “pay it forward” through a lifetime of service. We honor the heroes by becoming one for someone in need. As we unite through service, we show that we remember.
Acts of service can range from volunteering in the community to contribute to a positive social impact, to helping a neighbor, all of which create a ripple effect of positive change.
Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper proclaims, “Service doesn’t know any languages; it doesn’t know any borders or boundaries. It is just rooted in how we treat each other.”
