Kroc Foundation hasn't given up on Mountain Home

"Don't stop now," is the message Captain John Van Cleef, Salvation Army Cascade Division, brought to the Western Elmore County Recreation District Tuesday, Dec. 14, as he encouraged leaders to continue working on their vision for a community recreation center.

Mountain Home was identified as the runner up for the Kroc Idaho Task Force's choice to submit to the next level for a grant for a Kroc Center. Van Cleef pointed out the WECRD had done a superb job in preparing its package to the Idaho Task Force. Ultimately the task force determined the application from Coeur d'Alene should be forwarded to the next level. "But should Coeur d'Alene fail to meet the criteria, we will immediately direct all our attention to Mountain Home."

The Task Force expressed overall respect for Mountain Home's quest for a recreation center. Members were especially impressed with the hundreds of letters and e-mails to the Salvation Army on behalf of Mountain Home, the taxing district created by the community, the WECRD land and its ideal location, and Mountain Home's strong relationship with Mountain Home Air Force Base as expressed by Congressman Mike Simpson in his statement to the committee.

It had been a difficult decision for the task force, but following the final vote, members of the Idaho Task Force generated funding ideas for Mountain Home and pledged assistance.

The First Lady, Patricia Kempthorne, said at that time, "Please be assured of our continued interest and support as you strive to make the vision for your community a reality."

Van Cleef's visit to Mountain Home echoed that sentiment. "You have shown you have the mind and the ability to continue. Don't stop now."