Idaho Falls

6 IDAHO FALLS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2020 I would be lying if I said holding that cup of hot chocolate kept me warm as I walked to my car, but it felt like the kindness of strangers did. Although hot chocolate was a part of all of these expe- riences, that wasn't what warmed me (literally or figu- ratively) to Idaho Falls. It was more so my experiences walking around downtown getting to know the people of Idaho Falls. Even though I had lived in the area for a few years, it wasn't until that winter that I began to appreciate the kindness of the general population. Where I'm from in Florida, you keep your head down around strangers and think critically before offering anyone help. Here people watch out for each other. Even strangers. Back in September when a man took a swim in the Snake River and wasn't seen emerging, dozens of witnesses called the authorities and search parties were immediately arranged. Thanks to the watchful eyes of everyday citizens, the man was quickly found and received the help he needed. It's heart-warming to know that in Idaho Falls we are surrounded by so many people willing to drop what they are doing and help out someone in need. Not only that, but we live in a safe area where doing so is normally pos- sible. Seeing this has changed my perspective of what I might be able to give in the future. The holiday season is all about giving and spend- ing time with loved ones, something we're already really good at in Idaho Falls. However, there are plenty of opportunities for family fun and service offered by Historic Downtown as well as surrounding cities, including Ammon, Rexburg and Pocatello. We hope you will find something to warm your heart in our December issue this holiday season and develop a deeper love for Idaho Falls. IF By Emily FitzPatrick Walking Around Downtown EDITOR'S NOTE What's the reason you came to love Idaho Falls? Maybe you don't even remember because this small town has always been a part of your life or maybe you're a transplant to the area like me and a moment sticks out in your mind. For me it's a blend of moments which occurred while I was walking around downtown. On a freezing winter day I ran over to the Villa. One of the perks of working downtown is being so close to some of the best break- fast spots in town. The warm coziness of the Villa felt like a siren song to my freezing Floridian heart and I don't think I've felt as much relief as I did that day, slipping inside and browsing a book while waiting for my drink. That same winter, Christmas trees were erected in the Civitan Plaza, as well as a small stand selling baked goods and free hot chocolate. One day, after staying late to meet a deadline, the teens working the tent called out to me. It was freezing and I happily took their free offer- ing and bought some caramel covered popcorn for the road. Publisher Jason Harris Editor Emily FitzPatrick Editorial Consultant Steve Smede Advertising Chris Sheetz GENERAL MANAGER Kevin Malcom ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Secretary Shantelle Stewart Production Janet Chase Jim Donovan Creative Director Dallas McCary Circulation / IT Dept. Chuck Harris Newsstand Sales & Distribution ProCirc Retail Solutions Group Contributing Writers Kris Millgate Steve Smede Susan Stucki Gregg Losinski Jessica Hallam Principal Photographer Steve Smede Intern Rebecca Dement Harris Publishing, Inc. Jason Harris—PRESIDENT Chuck Harris—VICE PRESIDENT Ryan Harris—VICE PRESIDENT Steve Janes—VICE PRESIDENT Greg Larsen—VICE PRESIDENT Janet Chase—SECRETARY Clayton Ward—TREASURER Members of Better Business Bureau of Eastern Idaho Blackfoot Area Chamber of Commerce Community Magazine Network Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce Kiwanis Club Museum of Idaho Rexburg Area Chamber of Commerce Yellowstone Teton Territory Idaho Falls Magazine is published 12 times per year. ©2020 Harris Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. Back issues are available at $5 per copy. Quantities are limited. Freelance and photography submissions should be addressed to editor with self-addressed stamped envelope. Queries preferred via email to emily@ harrispublishing.com. Unsolicited manuscripts are discouraged. Please visit www.harrispublishing.com /idaho-falls for more information. Publisher not responsible for content of material submitted or advertising claims. Printed in Idaho Falls, ID by Falls Printing, LLC. Mailed under a third-class mailing permit at Idaho Falls, Idaho and at additional mailing offices. CORPORATE OFFICES 520 Park Avenue, Idaho Falls, ID 83402 (208) 524-7000 Fax (208) 522-5241 www.harrispublishing.com Founded by Darryl W. Harris Area Magazines Published Idaho Falls Magazine Idaho Falls Area Visitor Guide Idaho Falls Area City Map Idaho Falls Parks & Recreation Guide East Idaho Adventure Guide Destination Idaho Falls To Subscribe: (208) 542-2217 idahofallsmagazine.com Pick up a copy of Idaho Falls Magazine at Barnes & Noble, 2300 E 17th St., Eastern Idaho Visitors Information Center, 355 River Pkwy., or at Harris Publishing, 520 Park Ave.

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