The Idaho Enterprise/Caribou County | July 11, 2024
As it always does, the Rotary Club put together a spectacular Fourth of July week for Caribou County, with the help of a number of volunteers, organizations, groups, and others. Throughout most of the week, activities were on hand to keep people busy, from the very youngest to the very oldest.
The centerpiece parade boasted a rumored seventy floats, and several times that many pounds of candy. From 99 year old WWII veteran Thomas Phelps to the Jr. Rodeo Royalty, the parade showed off many aspects of the area. The Grand Champion “float” (in quotes because there is no ocean on earth this would float in) was a string of mega-sized heavy equipment machines from Bayer, which towered over the streetside crowds. Grand Marshal Linda Anderson rode along in much more refined style, but there was a wide variety of transportation choices on display. Horses, tractors, bikes, scooters, skateboards, side by sides, trucks, vans, and good old fashioned foot power all played their part. Other sponsored events included
the Culpepper and Merriweather Circus, which took place under the big top in Kelly Park. Lions, Tigers, and high wire acts brought a touch of the amazing to town, delighting, as they say, children of all ages. In addition to trapeze, big cat, and high wire acts, the circus came equipped with its own clowns, peanuts, and popcorn. The large scale mechanical “Wheel of Destiny” on which the daredevil Perez Duo performed aerial stunts was truly a sight to behold.
More terrestrial entertainments also took place in the park, where early in the week a giant foam pool was sprayed in for a once a year chance to frolic in the strangeness that is such a thing. During the 4th itself, the park was filled with vendors, crafts, a kids’ train, the Library Bake/Plant/Book sale, and a series of athletic tournaments. Three on three basketball, volleyball, and cornhole all spanned the afternoon as friendly and fierce competitions winnowed their way to declaring victors. Nikki Hansen, rec director for the city, brought in an impressive array of activities, and hopes to grow the event even larger for
next year.
Fireworks, of course, took over the night sky at Kelly Park later in the evening, preceded by a concert featuring Irish soprano Alex Sharpe, famous for her tenure in the international touring group Celtic Woman. Cherry Peak once again put on the park events, and knocked it out of the…well, park. Sharpe sang a variety of songs from traditional Scots and Irish songs, to modern pop songs, to some of the best of the Fleetwood Mac catalog. It was impressive to hear such a world class voice coming over the sound system as the sun set and the excitement grew. The American Legion awarded the raffled Golden Boy Rifle to Colby Peck, and the winners of the Road Apple Bingo were also named and awarded. The passing of Kirk Hansen, Joe Rice, and Blair Winward was observed by a moment of silence, and then the fireworks took over.
With a lot of activity and limited space, we will follow up on several of the events and stories listed above in coming weeks, but for now, enjoy a series of pictures from the week.
Local Farmers concerned about water situation
Governor Brad Little signed the Protecting Idaho Water Sovereignty Act on June 26, 2024, to help resolve issues between surface water users and groundwater users. The act was a result of the Idaho Department of Water Resources issuing a curtailment order to many Eastern Idaho farmers. The order was lifted and farmers are hoping that their concerns will be addressed in the new agreement.
Police are still searching for missing American woman who disappeared from yoga retreat in Bahamas Investigators with the help of search dogs, marine teams, and flight crews continue to search for missing Chicago woman, Taylor Casey. Casey was last seen on June 19, 2024 in Paradise Island, a small resort just off the coast of New Providence, Bahamas. On June 22, while searching for Casey, a dog picked up a scent and tracked it to the water. Two days later, search crews found Casey’s phone in the water. Investigators in the Bahamas reached out to American authorities to help access the contents of the phone but they were unsuccessful. The family hopes that with help from the FBI they will be able to find out what happened to Taylor Casey.
Officer- involved shooting in Fort Hall results in one death and one officer wounded 20 year old Mekalon Buckskin is dead after an officer involved shooting on Friday. Officers responded to reports of a juvenile being assaulted by an adult, who was later identified as Buckskin. When police entered the home, Buckskin pointed a gun and fired at the officers. Buckskin and one officer were both shot. Buckskin was pronounced dead at the scene, the officer was taken to a local hospital to be treated and was then released. The FBI, with assistance from the Bingham County Sheriff's Office, continue to investigate.
Hurricane Beryl leaves millions of Texans without power
Hurricane Beryl hit southern Texas as a category 1 hurricane leaving at least 8 people dead in Texas and Louisiana, and more than 2.5 million homes without power. With the rising temperatures and humidity levels throughout the state this could be a dangerous situation for locals. It could take days or even weeks for the power to be restored. As Hurricane Beryl weakens it could still cause flooding and tornadoes as it moves inland through the United States.
Trapeze Artist Simone Key of the Culpepper and Merriweather Circus. He goes only by one name, and that name is Leo.
Fireworks over Kelly Park on Thursday night.
The Fire Department sprayed a lot of foam into the park. Just a lot of foam. So much.
Beach volleyball is a perfect sport if you have at least one of those things. In this case, a volleyball.
The parade lived up to its reputation as an impressive spectacle.
The Bayer machines as they ended the parade, parking at the City Park for people to gawk at.
Bayer were the winners of the Grand Champion award for their heavy machinery.
At one point the foam was so thick, some kids almost disappeared into it.
Almost nothing is more intense than three on three basketball.
The kids train rarely stopped running during the day.
Jennifer Squires and Andrea Haderlie slice watermelon in the park for the Foam Party.
Nikki Hansen hands out much deserved drinks to the city crew.
Due West headlines Grace Concert in the Park
Laura Peck, Grace Chamber of Commerce
When the Chamber started discussing plans for the annual concert in the park, knowing that it was canceled last year, I knew we needed to make this year’s event big. I reached out to Due West back in January and got all the details on what it was going to take to get them here. The major hurdle was going to be to raise enough funds, especially if we wanted to keep this event, including the food, free to the public.
After finally getting it passed through the chamber, I was able to secure a date with Due West and immediately went to work contacting businesses. Most of the businesses we contacted had already heard of Due West. A little background on Due West for those who haven’t, they are a group consisting of three native Westerners - Tim Gates, Matthew Lopez and Brad Hull, who moved to Nashville separately and came together in harmony exactly 20 years ago. With songs like “I Get That All The Time” and “Things You Can’t Do In A Car” they have had Billboard charting songs and albums AND have played the Grand Ole Opry. Their newest album is called UNBROKEN and was produced by the legendary Dean Dillon.
With the generous donations of
businesses in our community and a few individuals, the goal became a reality! We were also able to raise enough money to hire Poll Sound out of Salt Lake to bring in the sound equipment. It was a lot of work these past 5 months, but it was great to work alongside of Aaron Kopp of Poll Sound and Brad Hull which made the process easier.
To see it all come together last weekend made it all worth it. Of course something of this magnitude wouldn’t be possible without the help of many others. Besides the many monetary donations, we had donations in other ways. A huge thank you to Dillon Liechty with Caribou Medical Center, who attended our Chamber meeting and saw the potential and donated monetary resources as well as half of the food to get the ball rolling.
Kiewit donated the other half of the food, Dee and Eileen Farnsworth donated the use of their large grill (for the 9th year), Esau and Dapheny Medina (with Drizzled Eats & Treats) for catering dinner for Due West, Levi Spenser donated the use of his trailer for the stage, Tom McBride and my dad, Laran Burdick for the use of their motorhomes at the concert, and Black Canyon Motel donated their rooms. It took many donations in many ways to make this possible.
Also, Thank you to Taygen Peck
and Carter Burdick for opening up on the stage for Due West, to the Grace Volunteer Fire Department for always being so willing to grill the hamburgers and hotdogs for us, to the other members of the chamber; Gloria Peck, Scott Buxton, Va -
nessa Turner, and Tom McBride, and my family who helped along the way to pull this together. And especially, thank you to everyone who came out and supported the event!
Soda Springs Vendor and Craft Fair
The Soda Springs Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all the vendors and crafters who participated in this year’s 4th of July Fair at City Park. The event went smoothly and was a huge success. We had 30 booths this
year that included food vendors, concessions, handcrafted items, raffles ticket sales, home baked goods, handcrafted jewelry and wreaths, books sales, face painting, 3D printed items, and organizations sharing information. All the fees collected from booth spaces fees will be given to the Rotary Club of Soda Springs. The following Ven-
dors participated in this year’s fair: Soda Springs VFW/American Legion, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Caribou Bible Church, Beck’s Frozen Desserts, LulaRoe –Carol Baker, Dumont Concessions, Laura Lind, Soda Sip, Ranch Queen, Marley Sales, Twisted Fork, Messer-Lee’s BBQ, Rachelle Haymore,
Jessica Fullmer, Paper Pie, One Shot, The Henry Store – Stampede Hills LLC, Potter’s Creations, Cheeky Art Face Painting, Wafflicious Idaho LLC, Berries-n-Cream, Della Perlsen, Alice Egley, Eikova, Alyson’s, Creations and Décor, Clarks 3D Printing, Blizzard Ice, Writer Ellen Nelson, Bridger
Debbie Dumont, President Soda Springs Chamber of Commerce
Dilworth, High Country Real Estate.
A summer concert is a staple in Grace. This year, the headliners were Due West.
Taygen Peck (from Grace) and Carter Burdick (from Meridian) opened for Due West.
Taygen and Carter warmed up the proceedings.
All kinds of things were on offer, including this retro style Lemonade stand.
The Dumonts operated one of the many booths lining the grounds at the park.
An impressive act to bring in, Due West was a hit with the crowd.
New Director: Hope Hansen takes the helm at Soda Springs Library
Long-serving Library director Cindy Erickson officially retired at the end of the Summer Reading program the last week in June, and also officially handed the reins over to incoming director Hope Hansen. While the role comes with a lot of responsibility and a host of new duties and procedures to learn, Hansen’s immediate concern was starting into the position after Erickson’s tenure. “Those are impossible shoes to fill,” Hansen said. “But I want to make sure we have people in place to provide everything to the community we can.”
The library staff, for their part, expressed no concerns about Hansen’s ability to fill those shoes. Erickson herself related that “She’s going to be amazing! She’s perfect for it,” a sentiment that was echoed by Children’s Librarian Dorajo Messerly. “She’ll be fantastic,” Dorajo said.
Hansen was born and raised in Soda Springs, and has been a lifelong resident, other than a few years here and there for school and work, living briefly in Salt Lake, Star Valley, and Rigby. Hansen has been back in town for around five years with her young family. On her return to town, she noted that it had grown a bit since she left after graduation, but she has had a fun time running into both new people, as well as familiar faces she hadn’t seen in years. As far as her plans moving forward, Hansen wants to remain in Soda Springs, which she says is the perfect size. “After living in a few other places—which included Rigby, mind you— my kids said ‘I never want to live in a big city again, let’s stay here’,” Hansen laughed. She is hopeful that her kids can have the same kind of experience she did growing up in Caribou County.
As the youngest of ten kids, Hansen found herself spending a lot of time at the park and the library while growing up. “I’ve always been a reader. I was here a lot,” she said.
At that time, the library was quite a bit smaller. The children’s wing was an addition that was added during the mayorship of Jim Smith, and greatly
expanded both the physical area inside the library, as well as the library’s capacity for maintaining a book collection catered to the younger set.
Other changes have come to the library in the intervening time as well, including aesthetic changes like the carpet. “I’m pretty sure it used to be orange and ugly,” Hansen laughed. “And I’m pretty sure we used the old card catalog.”
While she will likely have a bit of a grace period as her stewardship starts, a couple of immediate issues will be confronting Hansen at the drop. Most directly, Main Street will be undergoing construction over the summer in order to redo curb and gutter, as well as sewer and water lines. While the library itself will largely be unaffected, there will be a point at which the building will have to be closed as a result of the water and power being shut off briefly. Of more impact will be the parking situation. Main Street will be closed on one side of the road at a time, meaning that library patrons will need to park in other areas, including around the city park or possibly in the geyser building parking lot, depending on where the equipment is staged. “It will be a bit inconvenient, but not a huge thing,” Hansen predicted, a sentiment echoed by the city and businesses on Main Street.
The other issue on the docket is the recent legislation recently passed by the Idaho Congress related to library materials. The new legislation is in the early stages of being tested across the state, with some libraries facing problems of administration and staffing limits on what they can manage, and opting to restrict all their contents to just adults in order to avoid the legal entanglements. Such as solution is not likely to become widespread, and Hansen is clear that Soda Springs library would not pursue that path. “Libraries have to be open for kids, that’s just the way it has to be,” she says.
Because the collection at the library is driven by local requests for material, she feels that the contents of the
library are already responsive to the community’s needs and interests, and any challenges to the material can be handled easily by library staff. In the long run, it’s likely that the state legislation will be amended, clarified, or rewritten at some point down the road as the practical effects of the restrictions (which allow for materials to be challenged and restricted for adult-only access, and libraries to assume responsibility for doing so) become more widely debated. In any case, Hansen does not believe the issue will be a major one in town.
“We’re a community that is supportive and full of good people. I think we’ll be fine,” she said. Indeed, the library has a lot of supporters, many of whom grew up like Hope as “library kids.” Among those are the Friends of the Library group, which works to raise money for the library to use on projects outside to budget constraints of the city. Jessica Ineck, for one, was outside during the 4th celebration hosting the Book/Plant/Bake sale. “It’s been great,” Ineck said. “A lot of people have stepped up to help out with this, like they always do.”
Hansen also talked about the idea of the library as a hub of the community, in terms of many of the things that are not strictly related to books that the library is involved in. From providing a place to charge a defibrillator to emergency pants hemming, the library has provided a number of unusual services
in Hansen’s time there. In addition to the outlier cases, the staff also provides routine services that you might not immediately think of, such as providing a safe place for kids and adults to gather during the day, facilitating internet and communication access to people without the technology at home, food preparation ideas and a freeze drier, locations for local clubs, groups, and organizations, and so on.
Hansen is committed to “fulfilling the needs—book related or not—of the community in every way we can.” She also has her sights in continuing the project of expanding the back patio area of the library into the park to allow for more outdoor activities and seating areas for patrons.
One thing that Hansen certainly plans to continue is the library’s status as a active place. As the noise of kids laughing and adults chatting around the circulation desk filled the room, she noted, “it IS a library, but it isn’t necessarily a quiet place!”
New library director Hope Hansen took over at the end of June.
Jessica Ineck helped run the Book, Plant, and Bake Sale with the Friends of the Library.
EVENT CALENDARS
SODA SPRINGS/ CARIBOU COUNTY
July 11 – Thursday
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
IDAH-HA Movie
County P&Z (7pm)
July 12 – Friday
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Bridge @ The Senior Center
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAH-HA Movie
July 13 – Saturday
IDAH-HA Movie
July 14 – Sunday
Presbyterian Services
Caribou Bible Church Services
Catholic Mass (8:30am)
Open Arms Church Services
LDS Services
Hope Lutheran Church
July 15 – Monday
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
Movie in the Park (Dusk) County Commission (9am)
July 16 – Tuesday
IDAH-HA Matinee Summer Movie
GSSCDC (5:15pm)
July 17 – Wednesday
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Pinochle @ The Senior Center
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
Children Story Time @ Library
10:30am or 11:30am
IDAH-HA Movie City Council (5pm)
July 18 – Thursday
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
IDAH-HA Movie
GRACE
July 11 – Thursday
City P&Z (7pm)
July 14 – Sunday County P&Z (7pm)
July 15 – Monday
Preschool Story Hour @ Library 10:30am
BANCROFT
July 14 – Sunday LDS Services
CARIBOU COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS' MENU
Every meal served with Juice/Milk/Coffee
July 12 - Meatloaf, Baked Potato, Green Beans, Peaches, Dilly Bread, Cooks Choice Dessert
July 17 - Beef Pot Pie, Pineapple w/Cottage Cheese, Rhubarb Crisp
1900 Charlotte Cooper beats Helen Prevost to become the first female Olympic tennis champion and the first individual female Olympic champion in a sport
1914 Future Baseball Hall of Fame slugger Babe Ruth makes his MB debut as a pitcher for Boston Red Sox; earns 4-3 win against the Cleveland Naps at Fenway Park
1935 FDR became the first U.S. President to travel through Panama Canal
1960 "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee is first published by J.B. Lippincott & Co.
1967 "The Newlywed Game' premieres in the U.S. on ABC TV
1977 U.S. Medal of Freedom awarded posthumously to Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.
2012 S/2012 P 1, the fifth moon of Pluto is discovered
2018 Oldest stone tools outside Africa discovered in Lantian country, western China estimated 2.12 million years old made by hominins
2019 Last models of Volkswagen's Beetle car are produced in Pueblo, Mexico, ending production worldwide after 80 years
2021 Billionaire Richard Branson flies to the edge of space on his Virgin Galactic rocket plane in space tourism test
2022 NASA and U.S. President Joe Biden reveal first image from James Webb Space Telescope, cluster of galaxies called SMACS 0723 four billion light-years away, as they appeared 12 billion years ago
2022 New study suggests dogs can 'see' with their noses "first documentation of a direct connection between the olfactory bulb and occipital lobe in any species
NEWS OF RECORD
CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF
Marcus Bautista Ortega, Taylorsville, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Yanhong Cai, San Diego, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Kelly Marie Clelan Ephraim, Port Charlotte, speeding, $33.50, costs
$56.50
Ashley Marie Hammers, Perry, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Ethan William De Grey, Lehi, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
MAGISTRATE COURT
Fausto Casas Trejo, Idaho Falls, consume or possess open container by driver, $112.50, costs $187.50
Ralph Onstine, McCammon, fail to provide information in an accident involving damage, $142.50, costs $157.50
BIRTHDAYS
Bill Horsley, July 1
Lori Williams, July 2
Kaylene Troseth, July 3
Karine Olsen, July 5
Denise Horsley, July 6
Rosin Jo Crump, July 7
Linda Woolsey, July 12
Sherry McBride, July 12
Karen Thomas, July 14
Gus Greene, July 15
Charles Kinney, July 16
Karyn Thompson, July 19
Sherrie Beckstead, July 20
Dianna Brewer, July 21
Anne Rasmussen, July 24
Bruce Gould, July 25
Jenay Hodges, July 26
Linda Anderson, July 28
Sam Humphreys, July 29
Malva Petersen, July 30
If you would like to add yourself, your kids, loved one, friend or family member to our weekly birthday list, contact Sherrie at 208-766-4773 or email sherrie.w@idahoenterprise.com.
Idaho Governor signs “Only Citizens Will Vote” Act
The office of Brad Little released a press release on Monday announcing the signing of an executive order designed to ensure voting security. The act, which comes through executive action and not a legislative process, essentially restates actions which are routinely taken by the Secretary of State’s office at present, although it provides language allowing for action to create “processes” for validating voter registration. What that might include beyond the mechanisms already in place is not spelled out in the order. The order also states that the state “shall not” provide voter registration materials to non-citizens. While this is not something that has been noted as happening, the language may impact the kinds of publicly available materials on websites, public building shelves, libraries, and other locations depending on how narrowly it is interpreted.
The press release reads as follows:
Governor Brad Little and Secretary of State Phil McGrane announced to-
day Idaho is the first state to take executive action to ensure Idaho’s voter rolls remain free of non-citizens.
Governor Little signed Executive Order 2024-07, the ONLY CITIZENS WILL VOTE Act, to protect election integrity, voter confidence, and the sanctity of voting.
“Idaho already has the most secure elections in the nation, and we’re going to keep it that way. My executive order – the ONLY CITIZENS WILL VOTE Act – directs Secretary of State Phil McGrane to work with local county clerks to scrub our voter rolls and make sure Idaho’s elections do not fall prey to the consequences of Biden’s lawless open border,” Governor Little said.
“Across Idaho’s 44 counties, we have excellent mechanisms in place already to ensure non-citizens do not vote in Idaho, but there is always more we can do to make sure only citizens will vote. I am proud to work closely with Governor Brad Little to put in place a plan that keeps Idaho ahead
of the pack in election integrity,”
Secretary McGrane said.
Governor Little and Secretary McGrane pointed out that while Left Coast states and the Biden Administration erode confidence in elections by seeking to register non-citizens to vote, Idaho is fighting back to keep our voter rolls free of non-citizens, a step that is especially important as more and more people pour across our lawless open southern border illegally.
The executive order directs the following actions:
1. The Secretary of State shall immediately take all necessary steps to ensure that processes are in place to validate voter registration and prevent non-citizens from registering to vote.
2. The Secretary of State shall routinely review Idaho’s voter rolls, in coordination with Idaho State Police and the Idaho Transportation Department, to identify any potential non-citizens.
3. The Secretary of State shall coor-
Grace City Council Report—June 19
The Grace City Council met for a regular meeting on June 19.
After the minutes were approved, and bills in the amount of $12,451.36 and payroll in the amount of $12,166.37 were approved, the meeting began regular business.
Lead Man Jake Wright presented two permits for approval, 2024-12 to permit a lean-to for Rex Parkinson, and 2024-13 to permit a new home for Biran Smith. They were approved.
Mayor Barthlome turned the time to Tim Ochsenbein. He has just purchased a new home in town and was
interested in purchasing a small area of land north of the property the city owns. It is an area that the city must mow. Mr. Ochsenbein would rather the property was part of his lot and he would plant grass and take care of it. The mayor told him that the city would discuss the matter with the attorney and get back to him on it.
Amanda Collins, representing SICOG (Southeast Idaho Council of Governments) presented an amendment to the contract that the city has with the organization for the administration of the Wastewater Treatment Project. The amendment was due to the city receiving more funds. A motion to accept the amendment passed.
Mayor Barthlome presented the
BRAIN TEASERS
name of Larry Thomas to finish the term of Kyle Bingham on the zoning commission, due to Binghman’s having been appointed to the city council. Councilmember Toone moved to approve the nomination, and Councilmember Allen seconded the motion, which passed.
The Oath of Office was administered to Larry Thomas as a member of the zoning commission.
Councilmember Tillotson nominated Councilmember Allen as the Council President. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Toone and passed.
The budget work meeting will be held on July 23.
Lead Man Wright reported that Su-
dinate with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and take any steps necessary to verify citizenship status to ensure no non-citizens are participating in Idaho elections.
4. In the annual report to the Governor and Legislature regarding voter registration maintenance, pursuant to Idaho Code 34-418(2), the Secretary of State and county clerks shall report on their efforts to prevent and remove non-citizens from Idaho’s voter rolls.
5. State agencies shall not provide voter registration materials to non-citizens or coordinate with any federal programs or agencies to provide voter registration material to non-citizens in the State of Idaho.
6. State agencies entering into or renewing contracts with federal agencies or partners must confirm there is no requirement to provide voter registration materials to non-citizens or otherwise requiring voter registration activities for non-citizens.
perintendent Crookston would like to get water meters for all the city properties so that they can see if the city properties are losing water due to water leaks. Some of the employees went to the springs this week and found a pipe that was losing water due to a rock rolling down and damaging it. They reported that the road is washing out and the city is losing a lot of water.
Mayor Barthlome thanked the employees, Clerk Reeves, and the missionaries for all their hard work. She reported that Soda Springs Main Street will be closed for about a month starting July 8, in order to redo the road and infrastructure.
Adapted from official minutes recorded by City Clerk Shelley Reeves.
LOOKING BACK AT PAGES FROM THE PAST
The following stories are summarized from past issues of the Caribou County Sun over the last fifty plus years. The Enterprise thanks Mark Steele for permission to use the contents, and the Grace Public Library for access to the archives.
5 Years ago, 2019
There were sword fights and armed combatants, belly dancers, kids’ quests, food, arts and crafts, and a variety of entertainment at the annual Faire in Hooper Springs over the 4th weekend. Even the Mermaids of the Great Salt Lake were in attendance. The Queen was present, and she took out a warrant and ordered the arrest of a young man for “witchery and not cleaning his room.” He was arrested, paraded around by an armed member of the Queen’s court, and locked up in the pillory and stocks for public humiliation and a few good laughs.
The annual Grace Chamber of Commerce Concert in the Park featured Don Sibbert, a local singer songwriter, and entertainer who performed a variety of music including old country, and Hawaiian, as well as songs and stories. Don was born and raised in Grays Lake, and returns often in his off-time from acting and playing music in Tennessee. Funds raised from the concert will be donated to the renovation of the Legion Hut in town, as it was in need of several urgent repairs, as well as ADA bathroom accommodations.
The Idaho Uniform Crime Report for 2018 showed that Caribou County’s total offenses were down 22 percent from the year prior, with a total of 179 crimes in the major crime category, and 75 percent of those having been cleared. The figures include the combined totals from the Soda Springs Police Department as well as the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office. There were 16 juvenile arrests and 227 adult arrests over the year. Soda Springs had 34 drug violations, and the county had 11. SSPD reported 16 simple assaults and 14 thefts. The SO had 3 assaults and 3 thefts. Both departments had 19 DUIs over the time period. There were 5 sexual assaults in Soda Springs and none reported by the county.
A Ranch tour presented by Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers was scheduled at Crandall Farms in Chesterfield. The public was invited to view the management intensive grazing practices with a head of 1,200 yearlings. Presentations by Adam Carter, Robin Cattle and Consulting, and Les Nunn of the University of Idaho Extension Office were planned as well.
The BLM released a Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for Fuel Breaks in the Great Basin for a 45-day comment period. The EIS analyzes a system of up to 11,000 miles of fuel breaks to control wildfires within a 223 million acre area that includes portions of Idaho, Oregon, Wyoming, Washington, California, and Nevada. Public input was sought on the portions of the system that will include local areas, and would be heard at scheduled meetings.
10 Years ago, 2014
The Presbyterian Church in Soda Springs scheduled a presentation following worship service during which Dr. Frederick Partey planned to report on his trip to Ghana financed by the church and members of the community. The church is proud to be part of the bringing clean water to a village in Ghana. Prior to the well becoming available, the women and children of the village would have to walk two to three miles daily to bring fresh water to the village. The original well was drilled by the Japanese government in collaboration with the community and water sanitation in Ghana in 1999. It was abandoned in 2010 due to a broken pump and non-functioning iron-infiltration system. The church decided to rehabilitate the well after being made aware of the situation by Frederick Partey. The Partey family, three of whom are from Ghana, traveled to the country on vacation in 2014
to work on the water project. The village expressed great thanks for the efforts on behalf of their water needs, and the friendship of a community thousands of miles away.
The Chesterfield LDS ward is 130 years old. A celebration will be held on July 25 to commemorate the milestone. Books collecting stories and memories from residents both past and present over that time have been compiled into a two volume set and will be available for purchase to those interested during the events of the celebration, which will include a potluck, dance, and program.
15 Years ago, 2009
After four and a half years of planning and remodeling, Keith and Shelly Keetch have opened Grandmas Kitchen on Main Street in Grace. “This business has been in the making for some time. We purchased the building from Barbara Peterson and have been remodeling it as time and money allow,” Shelly said.
On Sunday, ISP responded to a three vehicle crash on State Highway 34 at milepost 39, five miles south of Grace. Tyson Jenkins of Freedom, WY, was traveling northbound in a Ford van when the vehicle crossed into the southbound lane striking an Oldsmobile driven by Blaine Priestly of Bancroft, who then struck Robert Johnson of Logan, Utah. Jenkins was transported to Caribou Memorial Hospital in Soda Springs and then released. His passenger was airlifted to Salt Lake with serious injuries. Priestley’s passenger was taken to CMH, where he passed away. Priestly was taken to EIRMC in Idaho Falls.
The Grace Chamber of Commerce and many locals celebrated Good Ol’ Days at the Caribou County Fairgrounds. The function was reported to be a blooming success. The weather could not have been better, and all other conditions were just as perfect. If not for all the sponsors the celebration would not have been nearly the cusses it was. A special thanks was given to all the volunteers, local talent vendors, and everyone who brought their tractors, engines, and antique vehicles.
20 Years ago, 2004
Gem Community Coordinator with the Idaho Dept of Commerce Hank Ebert presented Dallas Murdoch of the Grace Gem Team and Grace Mayor Ronald Coombs with a certificate designating the city of Grace as an active Gem Community. The is evidence of the dedication of community volunteers who form a productive partnership with the State of Idaho. Governor Dirk Kempthorne congratulated the city through an official letter.
The Bancroft Rodeo Committee with Kevin McLain as chairman held the Bancroft Rodeo Queen contest on Wednesday. A total of 14 girls competed for the titles of senior queen, Kylie Nicole Freestone, Junior Queen, Shandel Smith, and Junior Princess, McKayla McLain. The girls were 13, 10, and 8, respectively.
Monsanto, a Southeast Idaho phosphate mining and processing company in Soda Springs, has won the Environmental Excellence Award presented by the Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry at its annual conference in Sun Valley. Monsanto was nominated because of its innovative mining and reclamation practices which reduce and eliminate leaching of selenium from phosphate mining at their two mines, located about 19 miles northeast of Soda Springs. They have developed new mining techniques in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, Idaho Department of Lands, and Idaho Department of Environmental Quality.
25 Years ago, 1999
Kids had a cool and wet time of it Saturday at the July 4 celebration in Soda Springs City Park when they got into the pool to go fishing with their hands. The live fish pond was sponsored by FMC Credit Union, with all the proceeds going to the Soda Springs Little League.
It was a big hit for kids and spectators alike.
Over 2,000 ducks were turned loose on Soda Creek Canal in the annual Development Committee and Chamber Bingo Committee Duck Race. First place, a Polaris 325 Millennium 2000 four wheeler sponsored by Outwest Distributing was won by Colton Lakey. Second place, a La-Z-Boy recliner sponsored by Sanders Furniture, was won by Sharon Monk. Denny Lee won the Huffy mountain bike; Diane Daniels won a year supply of Roundup, and a dinner for two at Cedar View Supper Club was won by Nick Smith.
Several fireman were overcome with heat exhaustion while fighting a house fire on Friday at the Daryl Harrison residence on Kelly Park Road in Soda Springs. The home was nearly totalled on the interior and SSFD Chief Norm Bjorkman said that a heat lamp for an iguana or a dryer were the most likely culprits. Caribou County Firemen also responded to back up the city crew, and found flames engulfing three rooms on their arrival. The three foot long iguana was saved, and no one was injured in the fire. The fire chief urged caution on the part of residents as the dry season takes hold and fire conditions are ripe.
30 Years ago, 1994
Ellen Carney, a local author from Wayan, won honorable mention on her book “The Oregon Trail, Ruts, Rogues, and Reminiscences” at the National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest at the national conference for the organization at the Riviera Hotel in Las Vegas. The award earned by Carney was in the historical book category. “This book contains a wealth of information and is extremely interesting. The information on the ‘Ruts and Trail sites’ is particularly good. For anyone interested in the Oregon Trail this is a good place to start,” the committee said in its award presentation.
The Grace City Council met to discuss the Americans With Disabilities Act requirements for the city, as well as progress on the wastewater treatment facility, alley way cleanup, delinquent bills, and animal control issues. Access at a number of sites throughout the city was noted as needing to be updated in order to accommodate the requirements of the newly authorized ADA.
Scotch thistle has been found at the old stockyards near the railroad tracks in Soda Springs, and Caribou County Weed Superintendent Don Paul Jenkins expressed concern. He has found a dew of the thistles in Chesterfield and the north part of the county. The new thistle to the area can grow as high as 12 feet, and livestock avoid them because of the thorns from the stalk up. Jenkins urged people to stop by the old stockyard and see the thick patch of weeds several feet tall. He said anyone finding scotch thistle needs to spray them and keep them under control.
Crista Lu Madsen is the 21 year old daughter of Kenney and Judy Madsen of May. She served as Miss Rodeo Idaho 1994, traveling to many places throughout the state and country representing rodeo. She placed in the top ten at the national Miss Rodeo Pageant in Las Vegas. She is currently attending ISU and working toward her degree. She will beholding a clinic on the topics of public speaking, modeling, horsemanship, rodeo knowledge, and positive thinking.
55 Years ago, 1969
Joel Robinson of Blackfoot was injured at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jean Hunter when a truck, on which he was checking the lights, rolled back on him when the ignition was turned on. He was taken to CMH by ambulance and X-rayed. He suffered a badly bruised neck and chest, but no broken bones.
Tom Thomas of Soda Springs had a rare golf experience when he accomplished a hole in one. It happened on the number 7 hole at the Soda Springs golf course. Thomas had used a 9 iron, playing in a foursome with Norm Bjorkman, Dick Allred, and Wayne Bradshaw. This is only Tom’s third year of golfing.
The class of 1964 held its 5 year reunion at the Cedar View Supper Club. Fifty members, including their partners, attended the event. A short program followed dinner. Gifts were given to Kirby and Laura Benson for traveling the furthest distance. They came from California. Gifts were also given to Jim and Laura Benson for being married the longest, and to Sandee Dixon for changing the most.
60 Years ago, 1964
Kathleen Hunter of Grace, Miss Caribou of 1964, brought new laurels to herself and the county when she won fourth runner up in the Miss Idaho Contest in Boise. This was the first time Caribou County’s entrant has ever received a place among the five finalists in the state beauty-talent competition. Miss Hunter, 19, is a student at Idaho State University. At five foot three, her height had been considered a “handicap” in the contest until she made her talent appearance, where she danced away with the first place award in the category. Monsanto has announced the establishment of a new staff department to be known as the Central Engineering Department, under the direction of John Depp. Mr. Depp will oversee the operations of design, construction, administration, control, international services, and engineering.
It’s an ill wind that blows nobody any good, according to the old adage. And still wintry winds during April apparently were the reason for the number of arrests for fish and game violations were considerably less than the previous month. Most of the arrests were for fishing violations, and totalled just over $1,000, which is less than a quarter of the month before.
IDAN-HA THEATRE
Thursday, July 11
Friday, July 12 Saturday, July 13
Gru, Lucy and their girls welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad.
The Caribou County Board of Commissioners met for a regular meeting on July 8.
Kevin McClain-RB
McClain spoke to the commission about a number of Road and Bridge projects. Resources for gravel throughout the county were discussed. Taylor spoke to the commissioners about a class Wednesday at 5:30 from Kenworth he would like to attend about drum and disc brakes. The class would last 2 to three hours, and it was determined to use comp time to account for the class.
An issue related to reporting for the RB department was discussed. A program called “Whip Around” allows operators to upload reports immediately so that the supervisor can see it. Multiple people would have access to reporting, which should increase transparency and efficiency. The program would also provide scheduled maintenance alerts and other updates. The technicians would install the program and set it up to the department’s specifications. The cost would be $510 per vehicle per month, which would total around $400/mo, although a deal for a yearly contract might
NOTICES
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE SIXTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF THE STATE OF IDAHO IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF CARIBOU
In the matter of the Estate of:
LYNN MICHELLE HUBBERT, Deceased. Case No. CV15-24-0132
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that TRISHA HUBBERT
BARNES has been appointed personal representative of the estate of the above-named decedent. All persons having claims against the decedent or the estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must be presented to the undersigned at the address indicated and filed with the Clerk of the Court.
DATED this 21st day of July, 2024.
RACINE OLSON, PLLP
By: /s/ Nathan R. Palmer
Attorney for Personal Representative P. O. Box 1391 Pocatello, Idaho 83204-1391
Telephone: (208) 232-6101 nathan@racineolson.com
#1010-7-11-18-25-24-T3
be possible. McClain added that the system would provide digital accountability and a better functioning department in terms of service and record keeping. McClain suggested that he would consult with other counties about any similar programs they may use, and what the experience has been.
Eric Hobson
Eric Hobson spoke to the commissioners about several issues. The new ambulance should be delivered on September 18, which will make it for the current budget year.
Hobson reported that fire trucks were 52 months out nationwide, which was an important factor to consider for any future purposes.
Prediction shows a big year for fire, though it is predicated to go around the county itself for the most part. There have already been three brush fires. The county is reported to be 15% drier than last year. Growers were advised to watch their combines and avoid sparks.
Two trucks were reported to be having some issues, and may potentially need significant repair work.
Hobson would like to acquire new radios, which will help upgrade and improve communication in the department. The purchase would be something like a test run in order to determine whether these particular radios are ones they want to move forward with department wide. The radios were approved for purchase from White Cloud communication.
INFORMATIONAL MEETING FOR PRE-PERMIT CONSTRUCTION APPROVAL FOR A STORMWATER POND AT THE ITAFOS CONDA FACILITY, IN SODA SPRINGS
In compliance with Section 58.01.01.213, Rules for the Control of Air Pollution in Idaho, notice is hereby given that ITAFOS Conda, LLC, in Soda Springs, Idaho will apply to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ) for a 15-day prepermit construction approval for a stormwater pond. An informational meeting will be held at the Itafos Conda facility, located at 3010 Conda Rd, in Soda Springs, Caribou County, Idaho, at the main conference room. The meeting will be held on July 22, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. (MDT). Members of the public are welcome to attend the informational meeting for further information on the proposed process, proposed emissions, applicable rules and procedures followed to obtain a permit. Interested parties are informed to contact IDEQ if they want to request a public comment period. The application will be submitted 10 days in advance of the meeting and will be available on IDEQ’s web page, as is the ability to request a comment period on IDEQ’s proposed action.
#1011-7-11--18-24-T2
Bear River Early Head Start is accepting applications in our Homebased Program!
Who? For families with children birth to three, including children with disabilities and pregnant women!
Where? We come to your home for a 90 minute weekly visit!
What? We will partner with you to:
* Plan activities together that will interest your child and support development and growth
* Set child goals
* Track your child’s developmental progress
* Share parenting information/prenatal support
* Playgroups offered 2/month to meet and socialize with other families
* Family and referral services and much more!
Services are at no cost for qualifying families! To find out more, call 435-755-0081 (press 1) or apply online at www.brheadstart.org
We love kids and families!!
Rowdy Larkins
The elevator has been fixed in the courthouse building, a repair which has been underway for a while.
Main street construction will be delayed until the July 15, starting on the West side. Courthouse employees will be encouraged to begin parking along the park as the project moves along. Coordination with the city about making sure the building is easily accessible during court days is under discussion. Some specifics about a host of issues related to the project were raised. The building itself will be open for the duration of the project, and will not be affected in that way, other than a day or two when water and sewer will be shut off, which will require planning. The building will have to be shut off on those days. The court schedule will be reconciled with the construction in order to determine when that will need to happen. Two days are planned for the closure. Employees will need to be informed ahead of time and the time will need to be arranged. Alternative accommodations for court proceedings that need to occur during that time were discussed and plans were begun. The closure should happen during the middle of August.
Event Center design has been worked on. Some complaints about the planned paint job were received from the early plans, which were said to look “like a tire store”. Red on the fire bay doors was considered a good idea. Some rocks or lumber near the entrance for aesthetic purposes was discussed. The commissioners were generally happy with the changes that had been proposed for the building’s appearance.
Purchase of a 2024 1500 Duramax from Smiths from $52,500 was approved.
Public Hearing for a Name Change
Ally Schwulst spoke about a name change on a road from North Ten Mile Road, because it doesn’t align to road standards. The name is too similar to other roads near it, and causes confusion for EMS and other services which require clear road identification. The new name will be Boulder Road. Road and Bridge will be able to deal with the sign issues related. A motion to make the name change official was approved and the public hearing was closed.
A Public Hearing about land exchange between County and Adam Hulse was also held. The exchange is being authorized in order to maintain ingress/egress to a gravel pit accessed by the county. The ordinance authorizing the exchange was passed.
A Public Hearing for the Zoning Map change was held. The property on Highway 34 was rezoned for commercial purposes by ordinance 2024-03.
Dwight Lloyd
Lloyd reported that due to a lack of chemicals which he is waiting on, the county’s chemical expenses will be larger than anticipated.
Old Cove and Fish Creek Road reported some damage to crops in the area, which have been linked to a drone operator who was spraying in high winds. As a result of an investigation into the issue, the county will not be spraying in the area until it is resolved.
Discussion of weed control in subdivisions who have been given chemicals by the county was had.
CMC
The hospital had arranged earlier in the year with the commissioners to provide a quarterly report during commission meetings, and this represented such an update.
Kent Loosle spoke to the commissioners with an update on the CMC’s operations.
He explained the various service lines that the medical center has been working to expand and improve. The pain management department has added a provider that has begun providing services. Sports Medicine and Orthopedics have also added providers that provide day to day orthopedics and sports medicine. Delivery and obstetrics, Gynecology, and other elements of the service line are also being added to. Many of the surgeons are on a once a week schedule, while the physicians are full time and live within the community. Loosle reported that the CMC was working on clinical education, as well as marketing and information to the public.
Loosle updated the commission on the progress toward a new building. At present, the CMC is still in the process of expanding services and increasing volume for the providers in order to determine the size needs of a new facility.
It was asserted that the board for the Center was composed of Caribou County residents, as per the bylaws.
Loosle explained that making sure that the service provided by the hospital was responsive and excellent was the best way to ensure that the center was able to grow, and would be the biggest key to growing the hospital in the future.
BOE
The Commission entered into a Board of Equalization to discuss reconsideration of property taxes. Teri Porter spoke to the commission on behalf of her mother Dorothy Dickerson. The taxes on the property were reported to have more than doubled. From 2022, the valuation has increased tremendously. The location within a recreation district, and the unimproved roads restrict what is possible on the property with regard to development.
County Assessor Aaron Cook spoke to the Board about how the valuation for the property was determined. Similar sales with the same building restrictions were reported to show that the market has accounted for them when compared against similar lots without restrictions, which are valued much higher.
The BOE decided not to make any changes in the assessed value of the property.
A second BOE was held for a property owned by Nolan Koller. The value went from $27.5K to $108K, which is obviously a significant increase. The lot is only fifty feet wide, as opposed to the standard 70. The lot size is .28 acres. The property is in the subdivision at the south end of Blackfoot reservoir.
Some other issues related to zoning and development were discussed.
Aaron Cook spoke to the commission about the valuation. According to exhibits presented in the meeting, three existing sales of properties on the water were shown to be in line with the new assessed value. Cook acknowledged that the values had increased quite a bit, though he pointed out that the increase did not take place in a single year, but over the five years since the last assessment was conducted. Commissioner Somsen wondered about the narrowness of the lot and whether the valuation was within market average. Cook believes that the properties in the location are still undervalued, despite having increased. Taxes and valuation don’t increase at the same rate, which makes the correlation between the two somewhat opaque until the levies are figured and tax rates are finalized.
The commissioners suggested that the increase was significant, but recognized that it was an attempt to catch up with lagging assessment from the last few cycles.
The commissioners stated that the county was charged with the task of setting the property valuations as close to market value as possible, which the commission felt that the assessed value was, despite the large increase in value.
The BOE decided to make no changes to the valuation on the property, and closed the BOE.
Galen Wilson and Bill Horsley Caribou Historical Society
Galen Wilson spoke to the commissioners with an update. There are grants being sought to purchase furnaces for the building. Having the building registered on the National Register of Historical Places was mentioned as a likely strategy moving forward to expand the opportunities for grants. The money the county has given to the CHS so far has been used for maintenance and repair, as well as operations. Insurance on the building, truck, and other operating costs absorb most of the budget. The east side of the building is the next step in the restoration project. The garage ended up costing more money than was anticipated. Galen estimated that the building cost around $5-6000 to keep running for a year.
Wilson explained the origin of the train room upstairs, and recounted the story of how the exhibit came to be, which was written up by Bill Horsley for last week’s edition of the paper.
Horsley reported that the organ that used to be in the Hooper church had been offered to the museum, but they would need to figure out the logistics of moving it back to town from Utah. “Every time somebody gives us something it costs us money,” Horsley said.
Wilson reported that the city has helped with labor and materials, but nor funds.
The Caribou Historical Society requested funds to continue the program of putting up historic plaques to commemorate local sites of interest, but primarily allow for a furnace. The furnace downstairs and upstairs together will run close to $19,000 to provide heating for the building. The upstairs is planned to be offered to local groups for use
The commissioners moved to donate $10,000 from PILT to the Historical Society.
Bill Horsley invited the commissioners to come by and visit the museum and see how things are going over there.
Ranching the Right Way
Allison Eliason
I never thought I would say this, but I believe I have found a downside of teaching our five-year-old the ins and outs of ranching. With all of his newfound knowledge, my little rancher suddenly believes he knows all there is about ranching and he is here to tell you all about it. It can be adorable when he uses it on his little toy setup in his room. It can even be endearing as I watch him work in sync with his dad, little as he is. But the cuteness runs out when he is ready to tell everyone else how it “should” be done.
Living clear out in ranch country, we get our share of miles on the road with plenty of them going past someone else’s operation. And it seems that whenever we do, up pipes some comment about how “that pivot shouldn’t be off!” or why “are those cows still there?”. I have to suppress a chuckle that such a little boy can have such a strong opinion on how farming and ranching is being done. But at the same time, it’s wild to think that anyone can tell you how your operation “should” be run.
Unfortunately, this isn’t unique to my little rancher. It seems far too easy to jump to conclusions about when or how someone else is doing their work and if it’s the right way or not. They say there is always more than one way to skin a cat, and I’m here to say that there is
more than one way to ranch. It all depends on you and your operation. Round bales or square- one HAS to be better than the other, right? Maybe one is better for one kind of operation but they both are a great way to feed livestock. Baling rounds means you can put up the hay a little sooner, allowing a little more moisture in the less densely packed bales. Net wrapped rounds are far better at keeping moisture from damaging the hay as it sits in the stack. But when it comes to hauling and transporting, square bales are by far faster and more efficient. Depending on the need, one is surely better than the other. But it depends on the need.
A hot topic we hear every branding season is all about running calves through the calf table or sticking to the traditional roping and dragging. For us there is really only one option. Our range brandings necessitate roping and dragging, not to mention the super handy cowboys that we have. If we didn’t have great ropers and did have our cattle close to a set of corrals, we could consider the calf table. But for those operations that have little help, using a calf table is just what makes sense. It all depends on what makes sense for that operation.
A similar debate of moving cows with 4 wheelers and horses can always get a rise out of someone. Whether it is because 4 wheelers are faster at getting around than
horses or because horses can get into places 4 wheelers never could, there are strong opinions flowing. In my humble opinion, there are plenty of cows that need moving, so as long as it gets done, it’s done the right way. But at the same time, if there’s a chance I can ride my horse to move cows I would far prefer that than a 4 wheeler. It all just depends on who is doing the work.
There isn’t one right way to calve out cows, but looking out to the neighbors set up, a rancher might be right quick to say he is doing it wrong. There is a whole spectrum of practices from bringing each cow in the barn as she is calving to assist with each birth to being completely hands off. Different cattle, different locations, and different ranchers lend to a wide variety of systems that can all work. It all just depends.
With so many different options for farming, raising livestock, using machinery, irrigating crops, and so on, it can be hard to know what actually would fit your operation. When it comes down to those decisions there are a few things you should know. First, what are the goals or outcomes of your operation that you are looking for. There is no sense putting time, energy, and thought into a practice that wouldn’t help you achieve your goals. Next, know what your operation has to give. This could be the land you have to use, your own
Bancroft City Council Report—June
Adapted from official minutes recorded by clerk Debbie Swensen
The meeting was called to order, followed by the pledge, and an invocation given by councilmember Nate Eiman.
Councilmember Jessica Vawser asked about the higher than usual wages for employees in the month’s account’s payable. Clerk Debbie Swensen explained that May had three payroll dates instead of two due to the bi-weekly pay schedule.
Vawser also inquired about why the city was buying Roundup in Soda Springs from Bomgaars rather than locally. The issue will be looked into. Accounts payable were approved.
Real estate purchase at 10 S Main Street (Tooleson’s Lots 14,15,16,17) were reviewed by the council.
City Park Gravel
Mayor Spencer explained that the gravel purchase made last month had not been sufficient, and asked the council to approve a few more loads for the city park.
Councilmember Vawser expressed concern about the gravel that is being used in Memorial park. She was concerned that the gravel was too large and not safe for bikes or walking. She explained that she was on a bike ride with her family and her niece had a very hard time getting through the gravel, and ended up wrecking. Vawser stated her belief that the park should be a safe place for children to play and ride their bokes. Mayor Spencer will contact the county to see if the city can rent or borrow the county’s roller. Maintenance will put the gravel in the parking areas.
A motion to purchase more gravel was approved.
July 24
Rick Hatch asked the council whether his family could play music on Main Street during the July 24 celebration like they did last year. The council agreed that the Hatch family could do so, and that the event could be held the same way as last year. Hatch explained that they would like to have the city block off a section of Main Street. The council agreed that it had been a fun event for the city last year, and they were happy to provide the power source and block off the street as needed.
Michael Ackerman asked the city council if they would allow him to put on a fireworks show near his Main Street business. He is planning to have more fireworks this year. Council agreed to give Mike permission for the show. Ackerman also asked for a donation from the city toward the purchase of additional fireworks this year. A motion to donate $700 to that end was approved.
Business Licenses
Attorney Lyle Fuller presented a copy of the current business license code with suggested changes. Fuller explained that due to the city never charging for a business license or enforcing any type of fee, the city will need to hold a hearing to update the ordinance and pass a fee by resolution. Fuller explained that the items in the code needing to be removed were underlined in the review copies. Suggested changes would make it unlawful for any person to do business without a license, also called transient trading, even if they were doing busi-
e Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition
P.O. Box 331 Soda Springs, Idaho 83276
(U.S.P.S. -- 090-560) ISSN: 2997-1004
The Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition is published weekly at 76 South Main Street, Ste. 207, Soda Springs, Idaho. Postmaster, please mail address corrections to: The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 331, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276.
Entered as “periodicals” at the Soda Springs, Idaho Post Office. Subscription rates are strictly in advance -- $55.00 per year delivered in Caribou County, and $67.00 per year delivered outside of Caribou County within the United States.
The Idaho Enterprise reserves the right to refuse publication of any or all materials.
expertise or the assets sitting in the shed. Systems that capitalize on anything from efficiency to moral to resources will always be the right systems to use.
Once you know where you want to go and what you have to get you there, then you can begin to try new things. You will never know if it will be the right thing for you until you give it a try. But be sure to consider why you want to try it and how it will improve your operation. If you are only trying it because your neighbor is and it really has no place in your operation, you are better to look to the next idea. But if a fellow rancher running a similar operation has found something new that seems to work, it could be worth a try.
In the end, maybe there is one right way to ranching- doing what is right for you. It is doing what is right for your goals with your resources and abilities. The right way is finding new ways that help you grow, become more efficient and allow for greater returns in more ways than just money. The right way is being sure of what you need but also open minded to new ideas and practices. And when you figure out your right way, you can tell everyone else, “This is MY right way!” with all the confidence in the world.
ness elsewhere with a license. Section 3-1-7 and 3-1-8 are updated to mandate that licenses term each year and require an annual renewal. Section 3-1-8 states that no license will be granted unless the building complies with the city zoning codes. Section 3-1-11 allows the city to revoke licenses after they are granted if compliance is not met. Section 3-1-12 talks about transient trading including traveling salesmen that take orders and then come back later to make deliveries. The code would require traveling vendors that come into town on the 24th of July to acquire a separate license, or sell products under the school’s license.
Attorney Fuller will need to check the laws to see what the regulations are in that regard. Councilmember Vawser asked if the applications will need to have the city ordinance requirements detailed on them. Fuller explained that a certain amount of that detail would be required.
Clerk Swensen was approached by a store owner in another city asking what he would need to do to bring a drink trailer in for the celebration. Fuller suggested making sure that they have a state license at minimum, if the city is not ready to legally enforce licenses by then. The trailer will have fountain sodas, beer on tap, and bottled beverages. Council discussed possibly taking our the transient trading requirement and other proposed changes.
After discussion, the council decided not to regulate small vendors setting up at the school for the 24th. Council discussed setting a larger license fee for businesses or committees with irregular vendors for special occasions.
Councilmember Vawser suggested that it would be difficult to enforce 1-day licenses. Councilmember Hatch suggested that the person collecting the fees for the school in the past continue to do so for this year.
A motion to approve the ordinance regulating licenses was approved.
The Council also discussed setting a reasonable business license fee that would need to be renewed annually. Council members agreed that a $50 fee would be reasonable. They further agreed that if a vendor pays early or by the deadline, they would receive a $10 discount and a late fee for the opposite. The council agreed to keep the process simple. A public hearing will be scheduled to discuss the matter with the city.
Several building permits were approved, including three fences, a carport, and a shed permit.
A rezone application from Brandon Wistisen from Industrial to Agricultur-
al in order to allow a nephew to put a home on the property was discussed. The council agreed to schedule a hearing and hear testimony regarding the zone change.
Councilmember Reports
Councilmember Vawser has had residents complain to her about the dirty and/or unkempt yards in town. Vawser drafter a letter addressed to the residents of the city, and presented the members of council a copy for review. The letter explains the need for yards to be in compliance with city codes, and provides a deadline for compliance. Council will review the draft, but agreed in principle that it was a good idea and something needed to be done on the topic.
Vawser was also approached about the the sidewalk project. Some resident have complained that the city tore up grass, flowers, etc. to put sidewalks on Main Street.
Councilmember Rick Hatch has received complaints that the city is not maintaining its own properties and buildings, which is setting a bad example for the residents.
Councilmember Eric Chistensen suggested putting up a fence at the city shop to regulate Spring Cleanup dumping. The council was advised that Soda Springs keeps a worker on site during the cleanup to ensure that garbage and debris are properly disposed of.
Councilmember Vawser suggested that the city return to the practice of assigning each councilmember a department so that issues are more efficiently addressed.
Mayor Spencer informed the council that a resident’s asliding glass door was shattered when a rock flipped from a city lawn mower. The resident has filed a claim for damages with the city’s insurance company. Mayor Spencer suggested putting up a fence between the resident’s house and the park. Council agreed that a fence was a good move toward limiting liability.
Clerk Swensen updated the Mayor and Council regarding updating the city’s software. The trials have gone well, and the clerk is working on securing grant funds to help with the high cost of the software and compatible computer systems.
Clerk Swensen presented a current budget report showing all funds and accounts including bank accounts. The report shows the percentage of expenditures and revenues to the current date. A new report will be printed for the upcoming pre-budget hearing due to the numbers changing daily and monthly as accounts are paid and revenue received. The meeting was adjourned.
OBITUARIES
Vania Seely Smith
July 3, 2024
Vania Seely Smith 74; wife, mother, grandmother and friend passed away peacefully at her home in Grace, Idaho July 3, 2024. She was born in Twin Falls, and raised and educated in Emery and Castle Dale Utah. She was the daughter of Marva and Henry Seely. As a child she loved to play with her sisters; Sandy, Terri and Cathie and cousins “down in the desert”. She especially loved spending time with her Grandpa Keele.
Vania loved that she was raised on a ranch and treasured the time she spent riding horses and managing cattle.
She graduated from Emery County High School as a Spartan. She was active in gymnastics and horse 4-H.
At the wedding of her sister Terri, Vania caught and captured the eye and heart of the brother of the groom, David R Smith. They were married April 26, 1969 until David’s passing in 2018. They made their home in Grace Idaho. They were sealed together and to their children June 26, 1979 for time and all eternity in the Logan Utah Temple.
Their lives were blessed with 4 children: C. Nichole, Trudi and the twins Jeremy and Jodi. As a family, there were many camping trips, days picking huckleberries, ventures harvesting and hauling wood in Ol’ Blue, Dave’s short bed Ford 150, bowling, playing cards, club and church.
In 1982, Vania entered the work force in the banking industry. She worked for First Bank and Trust, West One and finally US Bank. After a successful career , she retired as a loan and investment officer. Her retired years she spent in Utah on the ranch and helping her mom and dad until they passed.
Vania was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She held many positions, loved
her ward members, neighbors and attending the temple.
She is preceded in death by her stalwart, loyal and faithful husband, David R Smith, his brother Ellis Smith, her parents Marva and Henry, her in-laws Russell and Anna, her sisters Sandy and Cathie and many aunts and uncles.
She is survived by her children C. Nichole (John) Christensen of Pocatello Idaho, Trudi Smith of Soda Springs Idaho, Jeremy Smith of Troy Alabama, Jodi (Eli) Horsley of Soda Springs and 15 grandchildren that she loved like crazy, and her sister Terri Smith, also of Grace Idaho.
She will be missed but is reunited with many loved ones.
Funeral Services were held Wednesday July 10, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Grace LDS Stake Center, 404 N. Main Street. There will be a viewing prior to the funeral from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Donations in her name may be made to the Hope Lodge or the Huntsmans Cancer Institute
Yvonne Burgin Lewis
December 31, 1935 – July 2, 2024
Yvonne Burgin Lewis passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 2, 2024. She was born on December 31, 1935, in Blackfoot, Idaho to Paul and Deaun Burgin. Yvonne and her 6 siblings were raised in Blackfoot and Lava Hot Springs, Idaho where she attended Marsh Valley High School. She married Diggs Walter Lewis from Soda Springs in March of 1963. They made their home in Soda Springs where they raised their 3 children, they also had a home in Alpine, Wyoming where they lived permanently after retirement. They also lived in England, Mississippi, and Pocatello while Diggs did consulting work after retirement.
Yvonne was a talented seamstress and owned her own fabric store in Soda Springs. Her painting skill was also remarkable. She loved attending classes with her friends and has left us with many beautiful paintings.
Yvonne was an entertainer. She loved being with friends and family, putting on dinner parties, skiing, snowmachining, dancing, and going to car shows. She was responsible for putting on the Alpine, WY car show for many years. She was the “life of the party” and will
truly be missed. She is survived by her husband of 60 years Diggs Walter Lewis, Jr. her three children: Britt Lewis of Idaho Falls, Bridgett (Scott) Stewart, and Digger W Lewis of Pinedale, WY. One sister Judy (H.O.) Nix of Jerome, ID. Grandchildren: Pirmin (Whitney) Engeler, Austin (Bregan) Lewis, Hadley (Jessey) Erickson, Kaela Lewis, MaKinzie Lewis, and eight great-grandchildren and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will take place in the near future.
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The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 205, Malad Idaho 83252 100 E. 90 S., Malad, Idaho 208-766-4773
Summer Sports in Focus: The Physical
Allison Eliason
The sports physical. The one doctor appointment any athlete dreads. With another year of sports looming just a short couple of months away, now is the time to bite the bullet and make the appointment for that check up. Here are a few things you should know about sports physicals. Not everyone needs to schedule a sports physical before they can play. For athletes playing at Malad High, only incoming freshmen, juniors and any athletes playing for the first time in any grade are required to have a physical. Athletes looking to play with the Malad Middle school for the first time will also need a physical that will last their tenure there.
The physicals are required to be completed and turned into the office before the athletes can participate in any scheduled practices. The first practice for the upcoming 2024 fall season will be August 12. There may be plenty of time before that first practice, but sooner is always better. In the event that the examination finds something that needs addressing before an athlete can be cleared to play, that extra time might be just what is needed to help them to get everything back on track for the season.
While a pre-partition examination might seem somewhat uneasy for some, the quick checkup can play a big part in ensuring that young athletes don’t have any illnesses or conditions that could make playing sports dangerous for their health.
Athletes can expect two main parts to their appointment. First they will be asked about their medical history. This includes illnesses, conditions, or diseases that family members may have in addition to any they experience themselves. These can include anything from heart murmurs, allergies, asthma, chronic joint pain, or seizures. A medical history will also include questions about any joint
or musculoskeletal pain or injuries.
Questions about heart and lung and any past possible concussions are also an important part of an athlete’s medical history. It is important that athletes answer all the questions honestly, even if they are concerned that past medical might influence a doctor’s decision to green light their participation. It is very rare for a physician to restrict a player from participating. If there is something concerning, they will do some follow up, prescribe physical therapy or medications depending on the situation. It is possible that an athlete will be restricted from some sports but that too is not very common.
Medical history questions will also include questions about testicular pain or menstrual periods. Ensuring normal health and growth in active adolescents is important as their bodies are experiencing such physical demands.
Following their medical history, an athlete will be given a physical exam. The exam will include things such as recording their height and weight, check their blood pressure and pulse, including the heart rate and rhythm, test their vision, listen to the heart and lungs, and examine their muscles, bones, and joints.
It may not seem all too important of an exam, but the peace of mind knowing that an athlete is in healthy playing condition is invaluable for the athletes, parents, coaches and school administrators. The last thing anyone wants is for someone to suffer any sort of illness or injury that could have been prevented.
Sports can be a large part of an athlete’s high school career, help keep them physically active, provide important social opportunities and even boost mental health. Sports physicals are merely the gateway to ensuring participants are ready to take it all on.
War on Weeds—weeds are everybody’s problem
THE ISSUE: Saltcedar
Saltcedar (Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb) is a deciduous perennial shrub or tree native to the Middle East. It was introduced into the U.S. in the early 1800’s as an ornamental. Saltcedar has been used in wind breaks and for erosion control, but its aggressiveness has allowed it to escape. It invades riparian areas along rivers, streams, ditches, marshes, and springs. It uses an extremely high amount of water (up to 13-acre feet of water per year).
Saltcedar typically grows 6 to 26 feet tall. Has smooth bark that becomes rough and grooved with age. It has small (1/16 inch long) bluish-green leaves that have a scale-like appearance. It has a deep tap root and lateral rhizomes that can send up new shoots. Pink-white flowers are produced from March to September. A single mature tree can produce up to 600,000 seeds/ year. Tiny, plumed seeds are dispersed by wind and water. Saltcedar can live for 50-100 years.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Options:
• Prevention— Learn to identify this plant. Never transport unknown plant material. Always plant clean seed!
• Mechanical— Digging both by hand and with an excavator can be effective options, although it often requires repeated efforts. Remove the root crown and as many roots as possible. Then pile roots and let dry before burning or mulching.
• Biological— Saltcedar leaf beetle (Diorhabda elongata) can cause complete defoliation of Saltcedar.
• Chemical— Herbicide applications play an important role in the control of Saltcedar. Application methods include cut stump, foliar sprays, and basal bark treatments can be effective. Herbicide active ingredients that have proven to be effective include Triclopyr, Imazapyr, and glyphosate. Refer to https://www. fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5180537.pdf for more information about herbicide application methods, timing, rates, and products. Always read and follow herbicide label directions.
Justin Hatch, University of Idaho Extension Agriculture Educator in Caribou and Bear Lake Counties. 208-547-3205 JLHatch@uidaho.edu
Vania Seely Smith
Yvonne Burgin Lewis
Photo courtesy of Leslie J Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org
Drinking Water Quality Report 20 23
Spanish (Espanol)
water sources or consider connecting to a public water system.
Dispose of chemicals properly; take used motor oil to a recycling center.
Volunteer in your community. Find a watershed or wellhead protection organization in your community and volunteer to help. If there are no active groups, consider starting one. Use EPA’s Adopt Your Watershed to locate groups in your community, or visit the Watershed Information Network’s How to Start a Watershed Team.
CITY OF GRACE WATER SYSTEM
Este informe contiene informacion muy importante sobre la calidad de su agua potable. Por favor lea este informe o comuniquese con alguien que pueda traducir la informacion.
Drinking Water Quality Report 20 23
Organize a storm drain stenciling project with your local government or water supplier. Stencil a message next to the street drain reminding people “Dump No Waste - Drains to River” or “Protect Your Water.” Produce and distribute a flyer for households to remind residents that storm drains dump directly into your local water body.
Is my water safe?
Spanish (Espanol)
We are pleased to present this year's Annual Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This report is designed to provide details about where your water comes from, what it contains, and how it compares to standards set by regulatory agencies. This report is a snapshot of last year's water quality. We are committed to providing you with information because informed customers are our best allies.
Additional Information for Lead
Este informe contiene informacion muy importante sobre la calidad de su agua potable. Por favor lea este informe o comuniquese con alguien que pueda traducir la informacion.
Do I need to take special precautions?
Is
my
water safe?
Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791).
Where does my water come from?
If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. Grace City of is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead
Water Quality Data Table
We are pleased to present this year's Annual Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report) as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). This report is designed to provide details about where your water comes from, what it contains, and how it compares to standards set by regulatory agencies. This report is a snapshot of last year's water quality. We are committed to providing you with information because informed customers are our best allies.
Do I need to take special precautions?
Your water primarily comes from 11 springs. Eight of the springs are located in McPherson Canyon and three in Hawkins Canyon. The land surrounding the springs is United States Forest Service property. The city has a contract with the Forest Service to protect the land around the springs and restrict any activity that could contaminate it. The City fenced the springs in 2011 as part of the water project. The water system also has three wells. Well #3 is located east of City limits and South of #2 Well. It serves as a backup and comes on automatically when the storage level drops. Well #2 is located east of the city limits. It serves as a backup source of water and comes on automatically when the storage reservoir level drops. Well #1, serves as a primary source. The water comes out of the springs into two storage reservoirs where it is chlorinated before it goes into the distribution system. We chlorinate the water system on a daily basis with gaseous chlorination to keep the distribution system clean and free from bacteriological growth. Our source water has been determined to not be surface water impacted. A copy of the report is available at the City Office upon request.
Source water assessment and its availability
Available at City Office upon request at 108 East Center Street.
Why are there contaminants in my drinking water?
In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, EPA prescribes regulations which limit the amount of contaminants in water provided by public water systems. The table below lists all of the drinking water contaminants that we detected during the calendar year of this report. Although many more contaminants were tested, only those substances listed below were found in your water. All sources of drinking water contain some naturally occurring contaminants. At low levels, these substances are generally not harmful in our drinking water. Removing all contaminants would be extremely expensive, and in most cases, would not provide increased protection of public health. A few naturally occurring minerals may actually improve the taste of drinking water and have nutritional value at low levels. Unless otherwise noted, the data presented in this table is from testing done in the calendar year of the report. The EPA or the State
Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791).
Where does my water come from?
Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791). The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity: microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, that may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife; inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which can be naturally occurring or result from urban storm water runoff, industrial, or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming; pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban storm water runoff, and residential uses; organic Chemical Contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are by-products of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban storm water runoff, and septic systems; and radioactive contaminants, which can be naturally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, EPA prescribes regulations that limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water which must provide the same protection for public health.
How can I get involved?
City Council meetings are the first and third Wednesday of each month. Meetings are posted at City office, Post office and at E-Z Way.
Description of Water Treatment Process
Your water is treated by disinfection. Disinfection involves the addition of chlorine or other disinfectant to kill dangerous bacteria and microorganisms that may be in the water. Disinfection is considered to be one of the major public health advances of the 20th century.
Your water primarily comes from 11 springs. Eight of the springs are located in McPherson Canyon and three in Hawkins Canyon. The land surrounding the springs is United States Forest Service property. The city has a contract with the Forest Service to protect the land around the springs and restrict any activity that could contaminate it. The City fenced the springs in 2011 as part of the water project. The water system also has three wells. Well #3 is located east of City limits and South of #2 Well. It serves as a backup and comes on automatically when the storage level drops. Well #2 is located east of the city limits. It serves as a backup source of water and comes on automatically when the storage reservoir level drops. Well #1, serves as a primary source. The water comes out of the springs into two storage reservoirs where it is chlorinated before it goes into the distribution system. We chlorinate the water system on a daily basis with gaseous chlorination to keep the distribution system clean and free from bacteriological growth. Our source water has been determined to not be surface water impacted. A copy of the report is available at the City Office upon request.
Water Conservation Tips
Source water assessment and its availability
Did you know that the average U.S. household uses approximately 4 00 gallons of water per day or 100 gallons per person per day? Luckily, there are many low-cost and no-cost ways to conserve water. Small changes can make a big difference – try one today and soon it will become second nature.
Available at City Office upon request at 108 East Center Street.
Take short showers - a 5 minute shower uses 4 to 5 gallons of water compared to up to 50 gallons for a bath.
Shut off water while brushing your teeth, washing your hair and shaving and save up to 500 gallons a month.
Use a water-efficient showerhead. They're inexpensive, easy to install, and can save you up to 750 gallons a month.
Run your clothes washer and dishwasher only when they are full. You can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
Water plants only when necessary.
Fix leaky toilets and faucets. Faucet washers are inexpensive and take only a few minutes to replace. To check your toilet for a leak, place a few drops of food coloring in the tank and wait. If it seeps into the toilet bowl without flushing, you have a leak. Fixing it or replacing it with a new, more efficient model can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered. Apply water only as fast as the soil can absorb it and during the cooler parts of the day to reduce evaporation.
Teach your kids about water conservation to ensure a future generation that uses water wisely. Make it a family effort to reduce next month's water bill!
Visit www.epa.gov/watersense for more information.
Cross Connection Control Survey
The purpose of this survey is to determine whether a cross-connection may exist at your home or business. A cross connection is an unprotected or improper connection to a public water distribution system that may cause contamination or pollution to enter the system. We are responsible for enforcing cross-connection control regulations and insuring that no contaminants can, under any flow conditions, enter the distribution system. If you have any of the devices listed below please contact us so that we can discuss the issue, and if needed, survey your connection and assist you in isolating it if that is necessary.
Boiler/ Radiant heater (water heaters not included)
Underground lawn sprinkler system
Pool or hot tub (whirlpool tubs not included)
Additional source(s) of water on the property
Decorative pond
Watering trough
Protection of drinking water is everyone’s responsibility. You
Source Water Protection Tips
drinking water source in several ways: Eliminate excess use of lawn and garden fertilizers and pesticides – they contain hazardous chemicals that can reach your drinking water source.
Pick up after your pets.
If you have your own septic system, properly maintain your system to reduce leaching to water sources or consider connecting to a public water system.
Volunteer in your community. Find a watershed or wellhead protection organization in your community and volunteer to help. If there are no active groups, consider starting one. Use EPA’s Adopt Your Watershed to locate groups in your community, or visit the Watershed Information Network’s How to Start a Watershed Team.
Organize a storm drain stenciling project with your local government or water supplier. Stencil a message next to the street drain reminding people “Dump No Waste - Drains to River” or “Protect Your Water.” Produce and distribute a flyer for households to remind residents that storm drains dump directly into your local water body.
More fun from the 4th!
The Circus Comes to Town!
The Culpepper and Merriweather Circus is truly a rare breed. While circuses were widespread during the first half of the twentieth century, they declined rapidly over the second half to the point that many touring circuses closed permanently, reduced their size and combined with other circuses, or took up
permanent residencies.
The C&M Circus is one of the few touring circuses on the circuit, and visits over 200 towns across the country in 17 states, for 32 weeks of the year. Soda Springs has been one of those stops for a number of years. If you haven’t been to a cir-
cus in many years, or possibly ever, the quality and professionalism of the Culpepper and Merriweather Circus might astonish and delight you, as they say in the business.
Dublin's Alex Sharpe sang a range of songs at the Kelly Park concert, though you'd be happy just to listen to her talk in her lovely accent.
As the park filled up, it was a crowded scene for the fireworks by nightfall.
The Arlise Troupe and their unicycle skills were fast and frantic.
Delilah the tiger is an old hand at the circus business.
Jacob Hirsbrunner announced the winner of the American Legion raffle, with Dillon Liechty and Jennifer Squires on hand.
Nothing better than fireworks to cap a long 4th.
Romichel Macias performed foot juggling, as well as an amazing aerial skill.
Wendell the Lion, on the other hand, is still new, and kept handler Trey Key on his toes.
