A local Secret Santa is giving $1 million to deserving people in eastern Idaho this holiday season. Every day, from now until the end of the year, the East Idaho News elves will be delivering gifts from Secret Santa and we’ll be sharing the surprise videos here.

For years, Bethene has poured her heart into helping others — students, neighbors, friends, even strangers — often putting their needs before her own.

Her piano students say she has a rare gift: the ability to make every person feel like they’re her most promising pianist.

But behind her bright encouragement is a woman who has quietly battled some health challenges. After developing severe celiac disease and a lung condition, Bethene was forced to give up her job as an elementary school teacher because even airborne gluten from

See Full Page