John Olsen

Thanks to Buzz and Arlene Balls, a generous donation has been made to the Oneida Stake Academy (OSA). “When I opened the letter to find the check, I was overwhelmed, tears came and I thought of all Buzz and Arlene’s kind service to our community,” said Alexis Beckstead, chairman of the OSAF. “My heart was filled with gratitude, because this money will really help us get into our next restoration project sooner.” In 1971, Buzz opened his glass and auto body repair shop. Since 1973, Buzz’s Auto...

After several months of work, an HVAC system has been installed in the Oneida Stake Academy building. This 135-year-old structure is being restored as a cultural center/museum of local history in Preston. It’s hand-hewn stones, tall-windows and stately bell-tower reflect the faith-filled endurance and foresight of the people who built Franklin and much of Southeast Idaho. Efforts to restore the building have actually been in the process for half of its lifetime. Back in the late 1960s,...

Larry and Brock Stokes and Stokes Market gave $100,000 to the restoration of the Oneida Stake Academy Foundation, helping to make installation of an HVAC system possible. (Left to right) Pictured with them are (front) Alexis Beckstead, Larry Stokes, Brock Stokes, John Olsen; (row two) Stacy Barton, Diana Higley, Kris Swainston, Troy Graves and Tyler Seamons; (row three) Kylee Olson, Karolee Read and Jim Cooper; (back) Mike Reed, Aaron Winward and Shannon McCabe. Not pictured are Kim Coats and...