Welcome 2010 – we hope this New Year is one of hope, peace and one where we truly work with each other to accomplish things for the collective good. The last little while many of us have focused our efforts to prevent the closure of  Thousand Springs State Park.  The collective units of this Park represent the best of our area…fishing, hiking, history, spectacular scenery and of course water – the lifeblood of our Valley. The  unique experiences offered are intrinsic to Idahoans and a gift we offer to guests of our state. Have you seen the Devil at the Devil’s Washbowl, enjoyed a hike along Billingsley Creek, enjoyed the splendor of Niagara Springs or fished at Crystal Lake?  The St Patrick’s Day Run at Malad Gorge means spring is here and the Thousand Springs Festival in September attracts thousands of visitors to historic Ritter Island. These are only a few of the experiences that could be lost if Thousand Springs State Park is closed.  We need your help – please contact Governor Butch Otter  or our Legislators mbell@house.idaho.gov or dcameron@senate.idaho.gov  and tell them how much Thousand Springs Park means to you and also how integral Idaho Parks and Recreation is to the management of  all our State Parks.   You can send your comments to contact@visitsouthidaho.com  or just comment on our  blog; we’ll pass them on. Margaret Mead said -  “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. ”   Be Safe* Be Happy * and we’ll see you soon in Southern Idaho!