Main Street Construction Begins
After months of lead up, planning, discussion, and preparation the long-anticipated Main Street project got underway officially on Monday, as crews began taking up concrete on the west side of the street. The project will involve the replacement/ addition of curb and gutter along both sides of the street, new sewer and water line hookups, and other improvements to both the look and infrastructure of the downtown area. Many of the services have not been replaced in decades, and this project should bring an efficient, unified, and coherent undergirding to the steet.
The project of course is not without its costs. Businesses are obliged to pay for the hookups from the main line into their places of business, which has caused some concern among those along the street. While the businesses themselves will not
have to be closed during the construction (outside of a few predicted limited times when services will briefly interrupted), the confusion resulting from parking and access issues is certain to depress foot traffic, at the very least. The city and the Chamber of Commerce are encouraging people to make sure they patronize the downtown shops as much as possible to help mitigate the disruption, and individual retailers and businesses should know ahead of time when they should expect closures.
Parking is encouraged around the city park area, though drivers should be aware that the construction vehicles will be staging in the area as well, and caution is advised.
During its most recent meeting, City Council stressed the need for pedestrians, and especially kids, to use caution in the construction area.
Discussions about what kind of safety precautions to put in place were underway, and likely to be calibrated at Wednesday’s meeting, which should include an update on progress and a revised schedule for completion. So far, the construction plan has not hit any major snags, and should proceed as planned for the balance of the summer.
The construction was delayed until after the 4th of July holiday in order to allow the annual event to proceed in the same manner as usual. According to city officials, the plan is to minimize the need for water and sewer disruptions, and to work as quickly as possible on each individual location. Concerns can be addressed to the City Council during public input sessions at the biweekly meetings, or by calling the office.
Summer Heat raises concerns; Cooling Centers open
The Southeastern Idaho Public Health Department is one of the many organizations that have raised concerns about health and safety during the hottest months of the year. From now until the beginning of September, the National Weather Service has advised residents that temperatures are likely to remain high and dry. Last week, the NWS issued Excessive Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories for the majority of Southeast Idaho. While this has many implications, such as the potential for wildfires, the effect on summer crops and water availability and evaporation, scheduled outdoor event precautions, pet care, and so on, the immediate concern is to the public’s exposure to heat.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the two most common heat-related conditions that occur during weather in the sustained high range at or near the century mark of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Last week, unofficially recorded temperatures across southeast Idaho met and exceeded that mark, with official weather reports within a degree in many towns.
According to the SIPH (Southeastern Idaho Public Health) “During excessively high temperatures, health risks associated with heat-related illness are significantly heightened, particularly for infants and children under age 5, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory issues. Residents are encouraged to check in on the well-being of any vulnerable relatives, friends, and neighbors during times of extreme heat.”
As a result of concern, “Effective immediately, Southeastern Idaho Public Health (SIPH) has launched a Cooling Center during the area’s heatwave at their Pocatello location at 1901 Alvin Ricken Drive. The National Weather Service has issued Excessive Heat Warnings and Heat Advisories for
much of southeast Idaho. The Cooling Center is free and open to the public during normal business hours Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. People are welcome to come in and get out of the heat. The Cooling Center will provide air conditioning, water, snacks, basic activities (coloring books, games, etc.), bathrooms, seating and the ability to charge cell phones.
SIPH has plans to open its doors as a Cooling Center during the summer anytime the temperature is above 90 degrees.”
SIPH Director, Maggie Mann says, “Historically, this weather is not typical for southeast Idaho. We have a lot of housing without air conditioning, which is a concern for all people, and in particular, our most vulnerable populations. We are offering up our facility as a Cooling Center as a safe space to prevent the effects of extreme weather conditions.”
While anyone is invited to the Pocatello Cooling Center, it is clear that an hour plus long bus ride to sit in a cool room is not an especially efficient means of combatting heat.
Luckily, local branches of the SIPH are also opening their doors to local residents to cool down if they need to. All of the member counties will open their doors to the public for cooling down, grabbing some water, and lowering their core temperatures to safe levels. Franklin, Oneida, Caribou, Bear Lake, and Bingham counties will all provide space and amenities, though what is available beyond a cool environment varies from location to location.
In most cases, other public buildings
(such as libraries, public city and county buildings, and so on) can also be sought for relief from the heat during excessively hot days. For more information, you can contact your local SIPH office, or Tracy Reed at the main office at (208) 239-5250.
IN BRIEF
Attempted assassination of former President Trump
On July 13, 2024, during Donald Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a gunman fired at Trump resulting in a shot to his right ear. Trump was seen grabbing his ear with blood going down his face. He was able to be escorted by the Secret Service off the stage. Two spectators were injured, and one was pronounced deceased. The two injured were David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, and James Copenhaver, 74, from Moon Township, Pennsylvania.
The deceased victim was identified as 50-year-old Corey Comperatore. The shooter was identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks. Crooks was killed by the Secret Service moments after the shots were fired. The Secret Service is now facing serious questions about the handling of security over the rally. The FBI is leading the investigation and the site is now an active crime scene.
Semi catches fire and blocks lane on I-15
A tractor-trailer caught fire Sunday south of the Shelly 108 exit on I-15. On social media platform X, Idaho State Police confirmed a “vehicle fire and two vehicle crash on southbound I-15 at milepost 102”. They also said, “Southbound I-15 at exit 108 has been closed. Prepare to stop, slow down or have alternate route available.” A fire was ignited in the sagebrush from the burning trailer. The Bureau of Land Management was handling the fire and they got it under control.
Car drives into geyser pool in Yellowstone National Park
On Thursday, July 11, 2024, a car drove off the road and into a Semi-Centennial Geyser thermal pool in Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming. Five people were in the car and all got out on their own and were transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Law enforcement rangers closed the road to safely get the car out of the geyser. The vehicle was about 9 feet under water. The roadway was reopened and the incident is now under investigation.
Actress Shannen Doherty dead at 53
After a nine year battle with breast cancer, the beloved actress from “Beverly Hills, 90210” and “Charmed”, Shannen Doherty, has died. Shannen’s publicist said, “It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease”. Doherty was first diagnosed in 2015 and was in remission two years later. In 2020 she had announced the cancer had returned and was now stage 4. In June of 2023 she shared the cancer had spread to her brain. Doherty had appeared in many movies and T.V. shows, some of these include “Father Murphy”, “Little House on the Prairie”, “Our House”, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”, and “Heathers”.
SIPH's Jessica Fueschel will be happy to help you cool down at the Caribou County office location
SIPH advises people to make sure they are hydrated, and avoid extended periods of time in the direct heat.
Main Street construction officially began on Monday, on the west side of the street.
While the plan is to disrupt businesses as little as possible, there will obviously be a certain amount of inconvenience for patrons and owners.
Historical Site Markers Placed
About a year and a half ago at the suggestion of Al Kackley the Caribou Historical Society began working on selecting several sites around Soda Springs to place historical marker plaques. Al suggested the old Coppard Ford Garage as one of the sites and the addition of the Fryar Hotel which was just north of the Coppard building seemed like an obvious second choice as both sites are presently owned by the same businessman. The third site was an even easier choice as it was a replacement for a marker that had been placed at the site of the first ZCMI store located in Soda Springs. That marker had been placed sometime in the 1990’s on the building that houses Jeri Selos’s salon, Haircuts Etc. at 176 S. Main St. The old marker was plastic and over the years the sun had burned off the lettering. The other two plaques were placed in the north end of the Eastman Drug parking lot and mark the sites of the old Coppard Ford Garage that was remodeled and now houses both Eastman Drug at 110 S. Main St. and the Flower Box at 120 S. Main St. The Fryar Hotel was torn down in 1965 providing room for the drug store parking lot. The project was more involved than we first anticipated. Wording for the plaques and pictures had to be sent back and forth to the com -
pany we found to make them several time before they were approved, and then an even bigger issue arose when we agreed that the plaque for the Fryars Hotel and the Coppard Garage should be mounted on a stone and placed in the parking lot. Galen Wilson went over to Montpelier and was looking at samples at Bear Lake Stone when Jeff Sager the owner of the business pulled up and told him that he had closed up shop. He then asked Galen what he wanted the stone for and when Galen told him he said he would donate it if we could get it to Soda Springs. We decided to wait out the winter weather before we attempted getting the stone as the plaques weren’t ready and we didn’t know how long that would take. When the weather changed Galen went and picked up the stone and delivered it to his house while we made arrangements to have it placed. We had a target of placing the markers before the July fourth weekend and made it by placing them on Friday the 28th of June.
The Caribou Historical Society would like to thank Jeri Selos and Irvin Christensen for allowing us to place the markers on their property. Jeff Sagers for his generous donation of the beautiful stone. Kirk Young for his assistance and expertise in placing the stone marker and Al Kackley for all his encouragement and advice.
Local Artist shines at Art Show
Ben Beckstead will be featured at the Soda Springs Floral Shop at 160 East 2nd South, following an Open House for his art work on Saturday.
Lucia Marie Crane (who goes by Marie), is a dedicated supporter of the local art community, and is happy to provide a space for artists to be able to show their work. “There are a lot of amazing artists here in the area, and there isn’t really a place for them to show their art,” she says. It’s a long story, but Marie ended up remodeling her floral shop after it was partially destroyed by a delivery truck. The insurance allowed for a remodel that changed the space inside the building a bit, and opened up additional space that she decided to convert into a gallery/creator space. Last summer, she featured several artists in a rotation in the space, and she plans to do the same this year, beginning with Beckstead.
Ben Beckstead is a member of the Caribou Community Theatre Guild, and works at the next door Family Dollar. In his time off of work and the theatre, he produces art work largely dedicated to the subject of planets and “space scapes.” Beckstead first saw the particular art demonstrated by an artist on Youtube and it grabbed him right away.
The process involves using aerosol paint (spray paint, essentially) and a variety of materials to create textures on canvas. The planet objects are created separate from the backgrounds, and then adhered to the canvas, creating a mild 3-D effect and allowing for highlights and shadows in a unique way. Beckstead enjoys experimenting with colors and effects, sometimes ending up with surprises along the way. “This one wasn’t supposed to be like this at all,” he smiles. “But it worked out pretty well anyway, and I like how it looks. If I like to look at it, that’s what matters to me,” he says.
A lot of other people like to look at what he has created too, it seems, as Marie rings up a number of sales throughout the morning. The show will be up for the next two weeks, and those interested are encouraged to stop by the shop to examine Ben’s artwork as a display, and purchase anything they’d like to take home. After the show, Ben’s work can be found on Instagram under BenBex26. He is currently working on
a page featuring just his artwork for Instagram and other social media.
“I’m amazed at what he’s been able to do,” his mother Kathy Dixon says. “Our house is full of his paintings. If we haven’t heard him for awhile, we know right where he is!” That would be in the backyard where Ben works on his creations in the well-ventilated out of doors. Ben graduated from Soda Springs High School, where he thanks the instruction of Andrew Berg for encouraging his artistic ambitions. Beckstead has always enjoyed sketching and other forms of art, but found that he really started to focus on it more fully during his late high school years. “I still find some of those old sketches and, some of them are not great,” he laughs. “But others I think, yeah, that was pretty good!” He also notes one experience in particular as helping to define his attitude about his own work. “A friend liked a drawing I did, but he suggested some changes to it and I made them. I tried to change it back, but it was never the same and I didn’t like it anymore. I learned you have to do art for yourself. I am the one critic I know how to control,” he says.
Marie Crane became interested in Beckstead’s art partly because of its unique character. In addition to her work as a professional florist, Crane also works in a variety of other media, including “Zentangles”. Her Facebook page, “Tangle with Marie” began as a small page devoted to sharing her interest in the meditative sketch and painting art, but now has a following of over 4,000 people. Marie enjoys interacting with and sharing ideas with other artists.
“We’ve got to support each other in this community,” she says. “And I thought, why not invite other artists to come in and share their work in this space I have?” Any local artists interested in showing their work at Soda Springs Floral can contact Marie at 208-547-3129 or stop by the shop to speak with her. She has plans to continue the Open House shows into the fall, and looks forward to seeing what else the local art community has underway.
For Benjamn’s part, he will be on hand off and on during the next two weeks, and is looking forward to continuing to do what he loves. “Just come down here and buy anything that catches your eye.”
Bill Horsley, Caribou Historical Society
Irvin Christensen with the memorial plaques placed on the north end of the Eastman Drug parking lot.
Local artist Benjamn Beckstead with his mom, Kathy Dixon.
Jeri Selos' Haircuts. Etc. stands on the location of the first ZCMI store in town. Marie Crane is pleased to feature local artists in her shop/studio/creator space, and has plans to continue to do so in the future.
Soda Springs Ranger District announces Hornet Canyon Area and Road Closure
Cleanup work will commence July 15
SODA SPRING, Idaho – July 11, 2024 – The popular Hornet Creek area, including portions of FS Roads 1255 and 395, will be closed while the area is undergoing restoration and rehabilitation activities this summer. Access to the area, including disbursed camping, is closed to the public. We ask that you follow this and other orders on the forest and that you to be respectful of equipment that is staged during the project.
The order is in effect from June 20, 2024, through June 6, 2025. The Described Area includes all NFS lands within the following boundaries: beginning in the west of Hornet Creek, NFS road (NFSR) 1255, to Diamond Creek Road 1102, then north to the top of section 7, following the section line west, then south to Hornet Creek, following Hornet Creek east and ending back at Hornet Canyon 1255 Road.
The Described Roads are the portion of NFSR 1255, Hornet Creek Road, beginning at the section line of Section 8 and ending at the road’s end; and NFSR395. Diamond Creek Road (NFSR 1102) will remain open and is not part of the closure order. For more information contact the Soda Springs District at 208-547-4356.
High School Sweethearts, Bryant and Donna Smith, are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary
It has been said that Bryant never officially asked Donna to marry him. He took her for a drive to the Salt Lake City cemetery because she likes flowers. He told her to look in the jockey box. She opened it and found a ring. Apparently, the message was received, because they are parents of 6, grandparents of 20 and great grandparents of 9, with at least one on the way.
They spent one year at Ricks College in Rexburg, then bought their first home in Logan, Utah. Bryant worked for LeGrand Johnson. They had many friends and good memories there. In 1976, Bryant’s brother was killed in a train accident, and they returned to Soda Springs to help his father with the family business. They have enjoyed serv -
ing the community and appreciated working with customers through their paving, cement and excavation business. Bryant still values his relationships as he works with his son Todd crushing gravel and cinders.
It takes a long time to grow old friends, and they have many wonderful friendships. They are so grateful for good friends who give support and encouragement and for all the wonderful memories they have made together with them.
They would like to invite their friends and family to an open house celebration in their honor on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at the Soda Springs’ Ender’s Hotel from 3 - 5 p.m. (Due to construction, please use the parking and entrance in the back.)
Donna and Bryant Smith celebrate their 60th.
Donna and Bryant in their early days.
Busy 4-H Summer
The 4-H program is busily heading toward its major events of the year when the Caribou County Fair kicks off next month. But despite the preparation for a wide range of projects currently being undertaken by 4-H members, the program is still hosting a weekly series of classes throughout the summer. Over the last few weeks, 4-H has featured archery and rifle classes, as well as classes in STEM and other sciences.
Last week, the rifle class groups spent time at the top of the fire station learning their MATS and the rules of the range. MATS stands for Muzzle, Action, Trigger, Safety, and is a pneumonic for remembering the basics of safety in firearms handling. Keeping the muzzle in a safe direction, the action clear, the trigger disengaged when not preparing to fire, and the safety features on were the steps reiterated by 4-H Coordinator Lisa Barfuss to a coed group of eager firearms students.
Students who finished the air rifle course qualified to attend the .22 class on the shooting range at the end of this week, which caused no end of excitement among class members.
During the week, students also worked at archery at the Fairgrounds in Grace. Due to excessive heat expected during the scheduled hours later in the
afternoon, the class was moved to an early morning session.
At the beginning of this week, the Extension Office hosted a STEM Day Camp with a number of activities. The camp was run by Alexis Carroll (Lexi), and assisted by Alyson Reed. The kids who made their way to the camp were treated to an afternoon of colorful science experiments.
During the course of the day camp, students made “elephant toothpaste,” “magic milk,” and heat-sensitive playdoh. The activities all pointed to some of the interesting chemical reactions that happen in common household items. Magic milk, for instance, involves filling a pie tin with whole milk enough to cover the bottom of the pan, adding different colors of food coloring, and then slowly adding drops of dish soap. The dish soap dissolves the fat molecules in the milk, and the colors create interesting patterns as a result.
Elephant toothpaste explored the interaction between hydrogen peroxide, yeast, and soap in an enclosed bottle, leading to a slow motion volcano of color.
Each class during the summer is a chance for students to stay engaged with learning, meet with their friends and work on useful skills as they enjoy the summer months.
Aly Reed and Alexis Carroll supervise a group of young scientists.
The group at the Fire Station learned the basics of firearms safety with air rifles.
When soap is added to the milk and food coloring, it creates a colorful pattern.
4-H Coordinator Lisa Barfuss explained the essential steps in not only hitting the target, but maximizing safety.
EVENT CALENDARS
SODA SPRINGS/ CARIBOU COUNTY
July 18 – Thursday
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
IDAH-HA Movie
July 19 – Friday
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Bridge @ The Senior Center
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAH-HA Movie
July 20 – Saturday
IDAH-HA Movie
July 21 – Sunday
Presbyterian Services
Caribou Bible Church Services
Catholic Mass (8:30am)
Open Arms Church Services
LDS Services
Hope Lutheran Church
July 22 – Monday Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
Movie in the Park (Dusk) County Commission (9am)
July 23 – Tuesday
IDAH-HA Matinee Summer Movie
July 24 – Wednesday
Pioneer Day!
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Pinochle @ The Senior Center
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
Children Story Time @ Library
10:30am or 11:30am
IDAH-HA Movie
July 25 – Thursday
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
IDAH-HA Movie
GRACE
July 21 – Sunday
LDS Services
July 22 – Monday
Preschool Story Hour @ Library
10:30am
BANCROFT
July 21 – Sunday
LDS Services
July 23 – Tuesday Freshman Bingo (7pm)
CARIBOU COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS' MENU
Every meal served with Juice/Milk/Coffee
July 19 - Birthday Dinner, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Apples, B-Day Cake and Ice Cream (In-House Only)
July 24 - Beef Enchilada, Green Salad, Pears, Green Rice, Pecan
Pie Bars
ON THIS DAY
1743 First half-page newspaper ad is published (NY Weekly Journal)
1768 Boston Gazette publishes "Liberty Song", America's first patriotic song
1853 Completion of Grand Trunk Line, trains begin running over first North American railroad between Portland, Main and Montreal
1892 First human test of a vaccine against cholera; Ukrainian bacteriologist Waldemar Huffkine risks his life by testing it on himself
1938 Douglas "Wrong Way" Corrigan arrives in Ireland after a 28hour flight, supposedly left NY flying for California
1953 Elvis Presley pays $3.98 to make his first demo, at Sun Studio in Memphis, records "My Happiness" and "That's When Your Heart -
aches Begin". Reportedly gives the record to his mother as a belated birthday present
1955 First electric power generated from atomic energy sold commercially
1968 Intel Corporation is founded in Santa Clara, California
1976 Thiokol conducts 2-minute firing of space shuttle's SRB at Brigham, Utah
1994 Crayola announces introduction of scented crayons
2018 Google fined record $5.1 billion by the EU for abusing its power in mobile phone market
2019 One of the world's earliest mosques at 1,200 years old discovered by archaeologists in Israel's Negev Desert
NEWS OF RECORD
CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF
Brian D Armstrong, Meridian, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Denton Shane Belnap, Rexburg, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Haden Call Boden, Brigham City, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Roberto Cavazos Pena, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Shiyong Chen, New York, improper or unsafe lane change, $33.50, costs $56.50
Uchralsaikhan Davaasambuu, Pleasanton, speeding, $33.50, cots $56.50
Douglas A Gonzalez Hernandez, Ogden, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Ashley Marie Hammers, Perry, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Derek Han, Baldwin Park, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Chuanxiuyue He, Kirkland, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Sophia Elizabeth Jones, Meridian, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Jacob Lynn Jurgens, Orem, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Igor Karpik, Boiling Springs, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Gerald Todd Keener, Arvada, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs
$56.50
Tze Wei Koay, Pupau, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Kc James Kubichek, Winnemucca, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00
Katie Elizabeth Lamirato, Boston, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Lyman Scott Nelson, Soda Springs, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Arturo Ortega Ortiz, Ogden, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Bharat C Patel, Boca Raton, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Clifford Jim Richardson, Finn Rock, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Issei Sawano, Salt Lake City, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Kurt W Scott, Blackfoot, fail to operate vessel with fire extinguisher,
$42.50, costs $56.50
Emil Joseph Slane, West Sand Lake, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Venkata Tundagura, Brentwood, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Sshital S Vibhute, North Wales, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
William Douglas Wallace, Newton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Irina Zeng, Bolingbrook, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
SODA SPRINGS POLICE
Daniel Jones Daily, Moscow, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Namit Ashutosh Deshpande, San Francisco, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Ashely Teresa Doane, South Jordan, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Jacinto Mauricio Ito, Ogden, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Skyler Steven Murdock, Eagle Mountain, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Edward Lester Parcel, Albia, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Brandon Tracy Park, Ovid, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
James John Ramirez, Los Angeles, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Nicki Jo Rich, Mesquite, fail to yield to pedestrian in crosswalk, $33.50, costs $56.50
Levi Luke Swasey, Rigby, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Yangnpan Tao, Wakefield, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Michael Douglas Woodbury, Riverdale, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50 Alberto Zacarias, Chicago, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
IDAHO STATE POLICE
Samantha Lea Amato, Timonium, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Tajai Dizmon Jones, Fresno, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Congziang Wang, Chula Vista, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, cost $56.50
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
BRAIN TEASERS
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
SSHS class of 1969 expressed their thanks to principal Jess McMurray for letting them hold their 50th reunion in the school cafeteria. Ann Poulsen was also thanked for all of her help, as was Austin Robinson. Jeff and Julie Godfrey set up the sound equipment. Brent Krebs and Sam’s Market catered the event. The committee was made up of Garth Balls, Randy Budge, Jill Rhead, Sally Johnston, Jeannie Kuhn, Bob and Karin Johnson, Ron Petersen, Shelly Seamons, and Scott Shuler. Soda Springs High School FCCLA chapter has had a very productive and successful year. At district competition they had three individuals and two teams compete in five different events. Two teams and two individuals qualified to compete at the state level. Carter Smith, Nicole Fryar, and Kami Inskeep competed in the Food Innovations event. Kamree Kent competed in the Interior Design event, Laramie competed in the Fashion Design event, and Tyesha Harrison and Danielle Smith competed in the Hospitality and Tourism event. Tyesha and Danielle qualified for nationals and Carter, Nicole, and Kami qualified as alternates. The two traveled to Anaheim with the advisor, Rebecca Fryar, and both of their mothers, Jerrilyn Harrison and Tiffany Smith, where they attended classes and many meetings as part of the National Leadership Conference.
10 Years ago, 2014
Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter has reappointed Jerry Brown of Soda Springs to the Idaho Wheat Commission. Brown represented wheat producers of District Five, which includes Bannock, Bear Lake, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida, and Power County. Brown and his family own and operate dry land and irrigated farmland where they raise winter and spring wheat and barley. Brown is currently serving as a member of the US Wheat Associates board of directors , and is actively involved in the Caribou County Grain Growers, the Idaho Grain Producers Association, and a board member of the Caribou Memorial Hospital.
Grace Fire Chief Curtis Peck reported that controlled burn activities in the area had been successful. The department had recorded an eight-minute response time to a house fire. The Fire department was also gifted a map of the county for the fire station from the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office. A discussion with the city attorney determined that it was not necessary for the mayor to sign compliance letters that were sent out concerning ordinance violations.
The Caribou County Democrats announced a grand opening celebration of their new office in downtown Soda Springs. Dubbed the “Southeast Idaho Democratic Command Center,” the office will be available for use by Idaho statewide Democratic candidates as well as local Democratic candidates. Ashlee Stalcup, candidate for Seat 32 B, and other statewide officials will be on hand for the celebration. The office is on 81 South Main Street. Caribou County Democrats “believe it is clear that Idaho’s current leadership is not doing enough to invest in our state’s future.” The party announced a plan to increase and expand the number of candidates from the party on Idaho ballots, in order to create a “choice in local elections and an end to the primaries deciding the general election.”
Ryan Weaver of Soda Springs and Josh Wallin of Grace both competed and demonstrated their medieval combat skills at the Renaissance Faire in Kelly Park, which featured a constructed “lake” filled with “mermaids,” who hopefully remembered to wear a lot of sunscreen.
The Idaho FG sought public comments on a change to allow the FG Commission to designate specific unlimited controlled hunts as “first choice only” during the controlled hunt application process. Fish and Game has used unlimited controlled hunts to provide special hunting op-
portunities without restricting the number of hunters. This hunt framework is more restrictive than a general season hunt, but less restrictive than a controlled hunt with a limited number of tags.
Paris Hills Agricom requested an air quality permit to construct an underground phosphate mine in Bear Lake County. The permit will regulate emissions from the mine located in the foothills of the Bear River range two miles west of Paris.
Grace High School principal Stephen Brady informed the school board that currently the high school doesn’t have many local scholarships to offer students compared to surrounding districts. He asked for direction from the board on approaching locals, as well as alumni, to help provide more scholarship opportunities for students at the school. Superintendent Holyoak discussed the professional development plans underway within the district, as well as the creation of a cross country team.
15 Years ago, 2009
A search for a 5 year old missing girl occurred on July 9, in what is known as the Cow Camp near Chesterfield. Sidnee Edwards reported her daughter Payeton was missing for an hour and a half. Payeton had been playing hide and seek with other children, who couldn’t find her and went home. Deputy Gary Oberlin found her at 1:12 a.m. “She was it, and went and hid,” the sheriff said about playing hide and seek. When Deputy Oberlin found her, she reportedly said “I winned!” Payeton was in good shape and uninjured. She is from Seattle and was camping at a family gathering.
The Soda Springs Public Library enjoyed great success this year with its annual program under the direction and planning of Jennifer Balls, children’s librarian. This year over 300 children were able to participate in the reding challenge and activities entitles “Be creative at Your Library.” The program was made possible by Monsanto.
Ray and Marilyn Welker were chosen as the 2009 Caribou County Fair Grand Marshals. They were raised in the Grace valley and have been active members of the community for many years. They are parents of three children: Ron, Debbie, and Corey. Ray was the timekeeper and kept the scorebook for both girls and boys basketball games for 30 years. He was an active member of the Caribou County Local Emergency Planning Committee, and he also served in the Lions Club for many years. Marilyn has been a Title I para educator with the Grace School District for the past 38 years.
20 Years ago, 2004
A group of several skateboard enthusiasts met with the city officials, partly to help change the image of skateboarders and also to present a plan for expansion and request help in financing some new equipment. They would like to hold competitions and bring people into the city for that. The group proposed adding an additional 10 feet in width of asphalt to allow them to expand and use some different equipment. Jeff Pearson asked for permission to build some new equipment at the site for his Eagle project. He is also seeking donations and would be involved in raffles and grants to purchase materials and funds. Bridgett Stewart, a mother with the group, said she would like to see money budgeted every year for five years to help purchase and upgrade equipment for the skateboarders. She noted about $21,000 had been spent at the site already, with only $2,000 coming from the city. The rest had come from donations and grants. Council President Randy Prescott expressed enthusiasm for the project, and suggested a 30 foot expansion, rather than 10.
Mark Steele reported that in total, District 31 Republicans had spent $28,487 in their primary contests. Tom Loertscher of Bone was the largest spender and receiver of campaign funds, in his run to unseat incumbent Eulalie Langford from House seat 31B. After raising and spending nearly double the money of Langford, he won the nomination by 120 votes. His fundraising was officially listed at $17,050, with his expenses totaling $16,821.
The Soda Springs Octagon Park Pavilion was the site of the Homemakers Club meeting, according to Club President Mae Phelps. Darrell Farnes “once again pleased the group with his Durch oven chicken and potatoes” to go with salads, relish plates, and cake provided by club officers Mae Phelps, Betty Ainsworth, and Bonnie Summers, as well as others. Elections for the 2004-2005 year were held, with Betty Ainsworth advancing to president, RaNae Christensen elected as vice president, and Bonnie Summers as secretary.
Senator Mike Crapo introduced a bill in the Senate aimed at ensuring the continued availability of an important risk management tool for dairy producers, which is a program that allows producers and processors to enter into voluntary long-term contracts for their milk supplies. Idaho Senator Larry Craig was a co-sponsor of the legislation. “This legislation creates another free-market tool for dairy farmers to manage risk,” he said.
Larry and Katrina Wood, former residents of Soda Springs opened a gunsmith facility in American Falls called Art of Arts, LLC. The Woods offer refinishing, repair, maintenance, customization, and embellishment of both sporting and law enforcement firearms. Larry Wood earned an associate degree in gunsmithing from Colorado School of Trades in 2000, and established Art of Arms in 2002. Wood said ensuring safety is his highest priority, and he would not send a firearm out the door of his shop unless he believes it functions properly and safely.
The largest donation to the Soda Springs Public Library in 50 years was presented by Trent Clark to Library Director Cindy Erickson on behalf of Monsanto for $2,250. The money is used to run the summer reading Storytime program, as well as toward to purchase of a new computer for the children’s room. Over 300 kids were reported to have participated in the summer reading program this year.
25 Years ago, 1999
Members of the Soda Springs High School Class of 1979 met Saturday, July 3 at Kellly Park for their 20 year reunion, with Kellie and Steve Rhead, Darla Toupin and Jeff Anderson on the committee in charge, and Cindy Truchot giving special assistance. Class members rode a float in the parade Saturday morning, followed by a “bring your own meat” family picnic, with salads, cake, and lemonade catered by Lallatin Food Town.
Grace High’s boys basketball team entered a competution last week at the First Security games held in Pocatello. Participating on the team were Seniors Jason Stoddard, Brent Tibbits, Casey Nelson, Jared Sorenson, Darrell Anderson, and Juniors Jason Kimball, Lance Welch, Rawlee Yamauchi, Kyle Hardy, Ryan Smith, and Nathan Rasmussen. The team took second and was coached by Greg Bergholm and Kevin Smith.
The Caribou County Royalty contest was held recently, with the interviews, modeling, and speeches at the Grace High School Cafeteria in the morning, and riding at the county fairgrounds in
IDAN-HA THEATRE
the afternoon. Chosen as royalty for the Caribou County Fair and Rodeo was Senior Queen Aaron Cheirett, 15, of Bancroft. Junior queen is Alesha Allen, 12, of Soda Springs. Attendant to the Junior queen is Judy Young, 13, of Grace. King is Nathan Thompson, 12, of Soda Springs. First attendant to the King is nick Spence, 11, of Grace. Kevin Young, 9, of Grace is the Second attendant to the King. This group of young people has ridden in the 4th of July parade in Soda Springs, will ride in the Pioneer Day parade in Bancroft, the Preston Night Rodeo parade in Preston, and the parades for the Caribou County Fair and Rodeo in Grace.
40 Years ago, 1984
Governor John Evans discussed the upcoming fifth anniversary of the creation of the Youth Commission, and its progress over that time. The efforts of the commission have been directed at removing juveniles from Idaho jails who had committed status offenses that would not have been crimes had they been committed by adults. The result had been legislation prohibiting the jailing of juvenile statis offenders. Evans asked the commission to broaden its scope. By executive order, he renamed the body the Idaho Commission for Children and Youth and asked for it to assist in the prevention of crime by and abuse of children of all ages up to 18. He noted an increase in the reported numbers of abuse and neglect cases throughout the state, which he said was correlated to the occurrence of suicide, substance abuse, and learning disabilities. Seven regional children and youth councils will be created by the State Commission to work on the issue.
The Soda Springs Chamber of Commerce Information Center in the park has been branded “the Center” by the Chamber, whose president Bryon Summers, along with Judy Stoor of the House of travel were assisted on June 11 in a ribbon cutting ceremony along with Phillip Merchen, Tommy Thomas, and Edie Tracy, along with Bobbie Brangham. The center will be open to the public from 1 to 5 Monday through Friday. The building in which the Center resides originally belonged to Margaret Peacock, who was a Morrisite who had settled with the original wave of settlers following Patrick Edward Connor from Camp Douglas. Mrs. Peacock was the daughter of George Washington Gorton and his wife Leah Maria Waylett Gorton, who are buried in the Fairview Cemetery along with many other members of the family.
A “saturation patrol” by the Idaho State Police had resulted in six arrests for DUI over the weekend, as the law enforcement agencies work to curtail the prevalence of dangerous impaired driving during the summer, especially in the weeks surrounding the Independence Day holiday. 82 stops were made total on Saturday night, with 31 warnings issued, 23 moving violation citations issued, and the six arrests. The time period between Memorial Day and Labor Day has been noted as the most dangerous driving quarter, statistically, of the year.
IDAN-HA THEATRE
-INDOOR-
Thursday, July 18
Friday, July 19
Saturday, July 20 Despicable Me 4 (PG)
Gru, Lucy and their girls welcome a new member to the Gru family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad.
Friday & Saturday
6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Saturday Matinee 2:00 p.m. (All seats $5)
Wednesday, July 24 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. (All seats $5) 208-547-3282
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
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
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Call or Email Us Today. 208-766-4773 or sherrie.w@idahoenterprise.com
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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!!
An unofficial Ranch Dress Code
Allison Eliason
There’s no dress code or uniform on the ranch. There is no official apparel or approved attire. Yet the cowboys on our operation tend to show up everyday in the same type of ensemble- worn blue jeans, a long sleeve collared button up shirt, scuffed leather boots, topped off with their favorite faded cowboy hat. It’s a look, I know, but I’m pretty sure that even if it wasn’t the cool way for ranchers to dress, they still would.
If there was any formal policy for ranch work wear, it would likely be written down in the book of common sense. If I were writing such a description of the necessary everyday attire based on what I see ranchers wearing day in and day out, it would go something like this-
“Farmers and ranchers should dress in appropriate attire for the myriad of situations of their highly demanding occupation that can be ever changing and highly unpredictable. It should include but not be limited to pants tough enough to not tear in abrasive incidents, namely climbing over barbed wire fences, yet stretchy enough to allow unrestricted movement in the event of running for their life from an angry momma cow. Pockets should be large enough to carry several sockets, calf tags, syringe needles, stray washers, fencing clips, and castrating bands, with sufficient room for a smartphone as well.
“Due to the potential of encountering large amounts of water, often caused by experiencing the likes of sudden eruptions of broken risers or plugged irrigation nozzles, although more commonly due to poor operator error and misguided bravado, pants should be made of wicking material and fast drying. Pants should be stain resistant as they will be exposed to high volume of contaminants that will not wash out such as oil, grease, and manure.
“Said pants should be long enough to ‘stack’ so that they are bunched at the ankle. Inseam length that will remain stacked and not cause the pant leg to rise above the ankle while riding a horse is sufficient. At no time should the shaft, or boot tops, be visible. Much like lingerie, it might be pretty but that’s not a show everyone gets to see. Pants should never be tucked into boots. Never.
“Appropriate shirts should be long sleeve to cover the skin in an attempt to avoid harm or injury due to stinging bugs, biting bugs, ticks, sunburn, stinging plants, scratching plants, rusty broken wire, thorns, sticks, thistles, biting snakes, nettles, sucking bugs, sharp rocks, slivers, hot surfaces or anything else in similar fashion. Such injuries should be avoided at all cost, therefore, long sleeves are a must.
“For similar reasons, shirts should have a
stiff collar to prevent the neck from similar injury. However, the collar should remain unpopped unless environmental circumstances necessitate, such as a blizzard, gusting winds or glaring sun. Failure to keep said collar downturned may tarnish one’s cowboy reputation.
“Shirts should also be made of fast drying, water wicking material that is also durable, stretchy, lightweight, dust resistant, wrinkle resistant, stain resistant and stink resistant. Shirt accessories should include two breast pockets, snaps preferred but buttons are acceptable. Pockets should be large enough to hold at least one smartphone or one redbook that should remain on a rancher’s body at all times. Pearl snaps are the preferred closure to allow for easy fastening and unfastening. Ranch wives everywhere prefer them as well as they are far less likely to pop off and need replacing.
“While many circumstances should require a helmet, hard hat, crash gear, or any sort of protective headwear, a rancher's uniform requires only a cowboy hat. It is uncertain if there are any sort of magical powers that allow a cowboy to avoid any sustained head injury despite its lightweight and somewhat fragile makeup. It does provide ample sun protection, comfort and certainly is fashionable and is thus sufficient for their needs.
“In the event that a cowboy hat isn’t worn, a ball cap is a satisfactory replacement. It should not be a purchased hat, however. It must be swag given as a consultation for spending tens of thousands of dollars on equipment, veterinary services, feed, or cattle. Despite being given new hats seasonally, no hat is to ever be discarded, given away or destroyed regardless of their condition.
“Foot attire allows for greater personal discretion. On all accounts it should be leather, high top, closed toe, with ample tread, can be easily removed, and can withstand any number of bumps, cuts, being run over, stepped on, smashed, or the like.”
The specifics of this sort of uniform can be pretty tricky to fulfill, but these ranchers do the best they can. We still haven’t found any sort of shirt that is completely dust resistant, wrinkle resistant, stain resistant and stink resistant nor an indestructible blue jean but we do the best we can with what we have.
At the peril of my own reputation, I admittedly rarely fully meet the dress code. Risking life, limb, and possible bug bites, I have found myself in short sleeves, cutoffs and flip flops out helping at a moment's notice. Fortunately, failure to dress in a rancher’s common sense appropriate style does not mean a dismissal, just an eye roll. But I have to admit, the standard of dress certainly has its merits.
Soda Springs sending out Code Violation notices
Chelsey Davids has a number of jobs with the city, including issuing permits, working with Planning and Zoning, serving as an assistant to the City Attorneys, and as it happens, sending out notices related to City Code Enforcement. For the most part, the codes in question are found in 8.04, 8.08, and 8.12 of the Soda Springs Municipal Code, and cover issues such as “excess junk, debris, weeds, and vehicles” located on the property in question. Per the code, the city provides the recipient 15 days after receipt to resolve the problem, after which action as laid out by the ordinance may occur. A first unresolved viola -
tion of the codes will result in a $100 infraction, with a second within the same year resulting in a $200 infraction. A third within the same year will result in a misdemeanor charge, with an associated maximum fine of $1,000. Chelsey herself is responsible for mailing out the notices, not assessing the conditions or serving any paperwork to those in violation. She notes that “most people who are contacted take care of it on their own.” Davids can be reached at City Hall at (208) 547-2600. There are any number of reasons for the existence of nuisance ordinances. In general, the stated purpose is often safety. This is es -
pecially true of vegetation that creates a road hazard by blocking drivers’ vision at intersections. Aesthetics, property values, and general sightliness are also commonly raised as concerns. Regardless of the reasoning, the ordinances are currently on the books and therefore the expectation is that they should be enforced in order to have any real meaning. Changing the ordinance is something that obviously could happen as well, though it would require a public hearing and discussion before such a thing could happen. In the meantime, recipients of any violation letters are encouraged to call the office with any questions.
North Gem Elementary presenting their Spring Concert.
North Gem receives grant from Bistline Foundation
The North Gem Education Foundation is pleased to announce that they have received a $7500 grant from the F.M., Anne G., and Beverly B. Bistline Foundation in The Idaho Community Foundation. These funds will help purchase new curtains for the North Gem School District's Auditorium.
This Auditorium is used by the
entire school district along with the community to provide drama, music, art and community functions, and is truly a gem of the area, with amazing acoustics and well-appointed facilities. The North Gem Education Foundation states that “we are extremely grateful to the Bistline Foundation and the Idaho Community Foundation for their continued support.”
4 Generations of Ropers at Barfuss Roping
Barfuss Roping has four generations of ropers who competed at the Rock Creek Ranch Roping in American Falls, Idaho. Rock Creek Ranch Roping is put on by Nick and Carolyn Merritt at the Ranch every year.
Oakley won 1st place in the kids roping on Saturday, Rhett won 1st place in the kids roping on Sunday. Rhett did edge Oakley out to win the overall belt buckle. Both Miles and Cree roped and caught their cows and got a time.
Lester is the Father of Cody. On July 1st he turned 83 years old.
Cody Katie Adams, Daughter of Cody Oakley, 14-year-old Daughter of Katie Rhett, 11-Year-old Son of Katie
Cree, 9-Year-old Daughter of Katie Miles, 7-year-old Son of Katie Kevin Adams
Caribou County Market Animal Draw
The Caribou County Market Animal Committee has announced that it is going to offer buy back animals from the Market Animal Sale. The buyback will be done in the form of a draw. There will be a $0.30 per lb. premium added to all animals that
are sold through the draw. Forms are available in the Extension Office 53 E 1st S, Soda Springs, Id 83276. The forms will also be available at the Market Animal Sale on August 9th. If you have any questions you can call 208-547-3205.
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.
Brandon Hall
Editor
Phone: 208-766-4773
brandon.h@thecityjournals.com
Bryan Dean Scott Publisher
Phone: 208-766-2419
bryan.s@thecityjournals.com
Open House for Helen Rae Larsen Ridge’s 100th!
Helen Rae Larsen Ridge is turning 100! There will be an open house at Heritage of Soda, 425 S. Spring Creek Drive in Soda Springs on Thursday, August 1 from 1:303:30. Please come to wish her congratulations and enjoy some light refreshments.
Helen was born and raised in Paris, Idaho, and has lived in Soda
Springs for many years. Family is one of the most important things to her and she has shaped a posterity that numbers in the hundreds. She knows and loves each and everyone of them. Helen is a pillar of our community, and has helped so many people through her years of service. Please join us in celebrating this momentous occasion with her.
Shelly Williams Advertising
Phone: 208-766-4773
shelly.w@thecityjournals.com www.cariboucountynews.com
Helen Rae Larsen Ridge is turning 100!
Miles Standing, Oakey, Cree, Katie, Kevin Standing, Cody, Lester, Rhett
generations of the Barfuss family: Lester, Cody and Katie.
OBITUARIES
Judy Connie Hansen
November 19, 1945 – July 5, 2024
Grace, Idaho... Judy Connie Hansen, 78, a longtime resident of Grace, Idaho passed away Friday, July 5th, 2024, following a long illness.
Judy was born November 19, 1945, in Soda Springs, Idaho. Daughter of Adolph and Connie Hansen. She was raised and educated in Grace Idaho. She graduated from Grace High School, class of 1964.
She married Alden Hansen on September 4, 1973, in Jackpot, Nevada. They lived west of Grace. Alden farmed and drove truck.
Alden passed away on October 9, 2015. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She worked at Caribou Memorial Hospital. She also worked in the potatoes for the Jorgensen's. She enjoyed arts and crafts, doing puzzles, and playing computer games. She was kind to everyone she knew.
She is survived by her son Dusty Hansen of Grace, Id, a sister Vicky Benson of Pocatello, Id, a sister-in-law Laura Hansen of Grace, Id and 2 broth-
er-in-laws Carl and Earl Hansen of Ut.
She was preceded in death by her parents Adolph and Connie, her husband Alden, and her brother Ronald.
A graveside service will be held Saturday July 20th at 11:00 a.m. at the Grace Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Sims Funeral Home to help cover funeral expenses. Thank you
War on Weeds—weeds are everybody’s problem
THE ISSUE: Black Henbane
Black Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) is an annual or biennial native to the Mediterranean region. It was originally introduced for ornamental and medicinal purposes. It invades fence rows, roadsides, pastures, and meadows. All parts of Black Henbane are poisonous to humans and livestock. Livestock will usually avoid it but will consume it if no other feed is available.
Black Henbane starts as a rosette and then bolts, growing up to 3 ft tall. It has large leaves (6” wide and 8” long) that are coarsely toothed. Leaves have a prominent cream-white colored midrib. It has funnel shaped flowers that are cream-yellow on the edges and brown to black towards the center. After flowering 1” long pineapple shaped fruits appear in rows of two. Black Henbane can produce 10,000 to 500,000 seeds per plant! The plant has an unpleasant smell especially when crushed. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Options:
• Prevention— Learn to identify this plant. Never transport unknown
plant material. Always plant clean seed!
• Mechanical— Hand digging or pulling can be effective on small infestations. Be sure to wear gloves, long sleeves, and pants to avoid skin irritation. Pull when soil is moist to remove as much of the root as possible. Cultivation can be effective if repeated annually. Mowing prior to seed production can also be an effective form of control.
• Cultural— Establish a healthy stand of beneficial plants that will compete for essential resources. Burning mature plants that have produced seed can kill seeds and reduce seeds entering the seed bank.
• Chemical—Dicamba, Metsulfuron, and Tordon are herbicide active ingredients that can effectively control this weed. 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
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The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 205, Malad Idaho 83252 100 E. 90 S., Malad, Idaho 208-766-4773
DEATH NOTICE
Baylee Anna Hoff
October 29, 1993 – July 10, 2024
It is with great sadness that the family of Baylee Anna Hoff announce her passing. Although Baylee's life ended before we were ready, the time that she spent in our lives was memorable and full of joy. We will be honoring her love of life at a later date with a celebration of life.
Vance named VP candidate
Jennifer Shutt and Ashley Murray, Idaho Capital Sun
Republicans on the floor of the Republican National Convention cheered Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance becoming their vice presidential nominee Monday, as Democrats slammed his opposition to abortion rights, and called him inexperienced and a “clone” of Donald Trump.
Reaction from all corners of American politics poured in as GOP delegates inside the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, formally nominated Vance just hours after Trump announced his pick earlier in the day.
President Joe Biden, the Democrats’ presumptive nominee, told reporters that there’s no daylight between Trump and Vance. “A clone of Trump on the issues,” Biden said. “I don’t see any difference.”
Republicans and Trump’s family members had vastly different reactions.
Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, who formally nominated Vance from the RNC Convention, said the “vice presidency is an office of sacred trust. The man who accepts this nomination accepts with it the awesome responsibility to give wise counsel to the president, to represent America abroad, to preside over the Senate and to be ready to lead our nation at a moment’s notice,” Husted said. “Such a man must have an America first attitude in his heart.”
The Biden campaign organized a call with reporters Monday afternoon following Trump’s announcement that Vance will be his running mate. Campaign officials, joined by Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and abortion rights activists, decried Vance’s record and accused him of supporting abortion bans with no exceptions for rape or incest.
They also warned Vance would be instrumental to Trump’s administration in cheering on conservative policy ideas, like the roadmap in the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 — a recent focus of the Biden campaign.
Jen O’Malley Dillon, chair of the Biden campaign, told reporters that “clearly Vance won Trump’s sweepstakes by passing his MAGA litmus test with flying colors. You know, Trump picked J.D. Vance as his running mate because he will do what Mike Pence
wouldn’t on January 6, bend over backwards to enable Trump and his extreme MAGA agenda, even if it means breaking the law and certainly no matter the harm to the American people,” O’Malley Dillon said, referring to the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol that delayed the certification of the 2020 presidential election results.
“With Trump and Vance now entering the general election, they’re facing off against the Biden-Harris ticket, and I will certainly take that matchup any day of the week and twice on Sunday,” O’Malley Dillon said, seemingly giving a nod to the campaign’s defense of Biden in recent weeks as high-profile donors and Democrats have called for Biden to exit the race after his weak debate performance.
The campaign said Harris has already accepted the CBS invitation for a vice presidential debate and is ready to face Vance. “The VP will take it to J.D. Vance,” Warren said on the call. “She is strong, she knows what she’s talking about and she doesn’t give an inch.”
The Democratic National Committee issued a statement Monday afternoon that said November brings “the most consequential election of our lifetimes, and with Donald Trump’s decision today to add J.D. Vance to the Republican ticket, the stakes of this election just got even higher. J.D. Vance embodies MAGA — with an out-of-touch extreme agenda and plans to help Trump force his Project 2025 agenda on the American people,” said DNC Committee Chair Jaime Harrison.
“Let’s be clear: A Trump-Vance ticket would undermine our democracy, our freedoms, and our future,” Harrison later continued in the statement.
The National Women’s Law Center Action Fund weighed in on Trump’s pick, calling Vance an “extremist.” “Women and girls deserve to live in a country where they are free to make their own choices and live without fear,” Fatima Goss Graves, the action fund’s president, said in the statement. So far, the reactions fall squarely in predictable camps, with strong support from many conservatives and those inside the party, including former presidential candidate Marco Rubio, and strong negative reactions from liberals and many outside the GOP.
Soda Springs City Recreation Department Sessions
Adult 2-pitch softball has been underway since July 10, and will last until August 14. All games for the league are scheduled for Wednesday nights at the City Park.
The second session of Junior Summer Camp is scheduled for July 30 through August 1 for K-4th graders. The camp will involve outdoor games, lifetime activities, and sports. Participants will learn new games and stay active this summer.
Youth Soccer League practices will start July 22, and games will start on August 6. Boys and Girls K-6th (for the 2024-2025 school year) can sign up online. Coaches are still needed. Games will be played on Tuesday and Thursday in August.
Youth Flag Football League is taking registration from now until August on the Rec Center website, or by following the QR code. Boys and Girls from
Judy Connie Hansen Baylee Anna Hoff
Photo courtesy of Jan Samanek, Phytosanitary Administration, Bugwood.org
Grades 3-6 are encouraged to sign up. Practices will begin on August 19, and games will start on September 9.
2024 Paris Olympics Preview: Who to watch
Allison Eliason
Paris, France is putting on the final touches as the 2024 Summer Olympics is just days away from beginning. The Opening Ceremonies will commence on July 24 as athletes from over 200 countries around the world gather to participate in over 330 medaling events across 45 sports. The Olympic games will close August 11 after 19 days of competition between the world’s most elite athletes and players.
The roster for the USA team will include 592 of the country’s most determined, talented, driven and extraordinary athletes the country has. Many of them are returning Olympians, Medalists, and World Champions, there chasing another round of gold medals and Olympic glory. While there are many worth keeping an eye out for, here are a few athletes competing in events from A to Z that will certainly be worth following across their competitions.
Casey Kaufhold of Lancaster, Pennsylvania is headed to her second Olympic games at just 20 years old, competing in archery. Kaufhold has the potential to find her place on the medal stand, the first time in nearly 50 years for the USA women’s team. Since her Olympic debut at the 202 Tokyo Games, Kaufhold finished in second place at the 2021 World Championships and fourth at the 2023 Worlds in the women’s individual event, beating Tokyo gold medalist An San at both competitions.
Artistic swimming has historically been a women’s only event, but the Paris games look to include the sport for the first time at the 2024 Olympics. 45 year old Bill May, known as the greatest male artistic swimmer ever, will have a clear shot of his dream- an Olympic gold medal. The six time world medalist will compete as a member of the eight person artistic swimming team beginning August 5.
The USA men’s basketball team boasts of a stellar history at the Olympic games, winning 16 gold medals in the 19 summer Olympics it has competed in and looks to add one more. The twelve man roster includes fan favorite athletes making a Olympic return including Stephen Curry, LeBron James and Kevin Durant.
Competing with just as impressive of a record is the USA women’s basketball team, winning 9 gold medals in the 11 years they have competed. Legend Diana Taurasi, who has already claimed 5 golds, has the opportunity to set a new record of most gold medals won in women’s basketball history if she adds one more. Breanna Stewart, MVP at the Tokyo Olympics tournaments, will be joining the team as well, making it a team worth watching
Looking to play basketball at a different speed is Jimmer Fredette as he has been put on the USA 3x3 basketball team. His quickness, shooting and court awareness will be a key factor in bringing home a medal in a game that is played in a short 10 minutes, capped at 21 points. He will team up with Canyon Barry, Kareem Maddox, and Dylan Travis, a team that has already won the silver medal at the
2023 FIBA World Cup and gold at 2023 Pan American Games.
Summer game favorite beach volleyball will have two teams to cheer on at the Paris games, Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes and Taryn Kloth & Kristen Nuss. Cheng and Hughes took the silver medal at the 2023 World Championships with Kloth and Nuss coming in right behind them. With both dominating on the world stage already, their play is sure to take them places in these Olympic games.
Featherweight boxer Jahmal Harvey will make his Olympic debut in Paris July 2024. Harvey may be weighing in on the light end of the scale, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t bringing some heavy experience. He has won a world title in 2021 and, more recently, a Pan American Games gold medal in 2023.
International canoeing star Nevin Harrison has once again been added to the Olympic Team USA roster. Harrison became the first U.S. woman to win an Olympic canoeing gold medal in 2020 at the Tokyo games, followed by two world titles.
USA’s cycling team is boasting of two rising stars- Hannah Roberts, competing in the BMX Freestyle, and Jennifer Valente, competing in track cycling. Roberts will come into the games with five world titles and a silver medal from the 2020 games. Coming in as the favorite, she might just accomplish the dream of a gold medal in Paris. Valente was the sole gold medal winner of the 2020 Olympic games for team USA and could potentially win back to back golds as a dominant member of the cycling team.
Like so many others, USA golfer Nelly Korda, looks to defend her Tokyo gold medal as she takes the green in Paris. Korda has dominated her 2024 schedule, winning four of her first five tournaments. She is coming into the games ranked number one and a favorite to take the top box on the medal podium.
Team USA’s men’s golf team is boasting its own stellar lineup, beginning with favorite Scottie Scheffler. Coming into the games, Scheffler has strung together a dominating stretch of tournaments, including a win in the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club for the second time. Joining him as a medal favorite is teammate Xander Schauffele. With a gold medal already in his golfing career, Schauffele is coming into the games ranked number three.
Probably the most sensationalized member of Team USA, and with good reason, is gymnast Simone Biles. Coming into her third Olympic games, her gymnastics resume tallies up 37 world championships and Olympic medals. Performing skills that have never been accomplished in competitions, Biles has two skills named after her- the Biles and the Biles II. There’s no doubt the cameras won’t let you miss this next Olympic experience.
Set to compete in his fourth Olympic games, Vincent Hancock has the potential to make history in Paris as a four time Olympic gold medal winner in skeet shooting. With the debut of the mixed team shoot, he has double the chances of gold.
Age might mean nothing at the
Olympic games, but competing in the Paris Olympics at 17 years old is its own incredible feat for skateboarder Gavin-Bottger. But he isn’t looking to just compete. As the reigning world champion and currently ranked as the number one competitor in men’s park, Gavin-Bottger has a real chance at bringing home gold from his first Olympic games. Coming in behind him in the rankings is teammate Jagger Eaton. Eaton has proven himself a force to be reckoned with as he has accrued multiple world titles, including a bronze medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics where he competed on a broken ankle.
The USA women’s soccer team has gold in their view with a lineup of stars like Alex Morgan, Trinity Rodman, and Sophia Smith. The national steam is undergoing a generational shift, seeing longtime members moving on and new young athletes joining in. Despite the shifting team, one thing that is sure is that they have the speed, talent, and grit to make a gold medal run in Paris this year.
Making a splash in the swimming events is Jack Alexy, currently named as Team USA’s top male sprint swimmer. In the 2023 World Swimming Championships, Alexy claimed silver medals in both the 50m and 100m freestyle events, and also featured on three medal-winning U.S. relay teams. A gold medal seems to be a real possibility with where this young athlete is headed.
Olympic gold medals are nothing new to the now four time Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky. Dominating the pool for more than a decade, Ledecky has become the most decorated female swimmer of all time with 26 medals. She also holds two world records in the women’s 800-meter and 1500-meter freestyle. The powerhouse swimmer will be a must see athlete of the 2024 Paris Olympic games.
Looking to be a favorite in her own rights in swimming teammate Regan Smith. Formerly holding the world record in the 100m and 200m backstroke, Smith is unarguably among the very best butterfly swimmers at the Olympic games. Smith is even favored to win the gold medal in the 200m butterfly, a goal she hopes to accomplish in order to surpass her Tokyo performance which ended with two silvers and 1 bronze.
Coco Gauff is looking for redemption at the Paris games as her hopes for Olympic glory were dashed even before the games began in 2020, testing positive for covid. Doubling down on her tennis play, she has risen to the top on the world stage taking second place in the 2022 French Open, followed by a Grand Slam first place finish at the US Open in 2023.
Claiming the title of the greatest shot putter of all time, Ryan Crouser is returning to the Olympics to defend his two time gold medal standings. In fact, winning a third gold medal in Paris would be history making for the 31 year old athlete.
Missing out on making the 2020 Olympic team after crashing out in her qualifying hurdle race, Anna Hall is more determined than ever to compete in his first Olympic
games. Competing in the track and field heptathlon event, Hall hopes to become just the third American woman to win an Olympic medal in that event. The heptathlon will consist of seven events run over two days which will include the 100m hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200m, long jump, javelin throw, and 800m. Noah Lyleshas declared his intention to win “all of the medals” in Paris. Running in the footsteps of elite runner Usain Bolt, Lyles became the first man since to win gold in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay.
Continuing to amaze track fans in her 2024 Olympics trials, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone broke her own world record in the 400m hurdles. For the fifth time. Pulling out of the World Championships in 2023 for knee surgery, she has had one thing on her mind- make it back to compete in the Olympic trials. Competing and Dominating at the trials, she now looks to be the woman to beat and will play a crucial role on Team USA’s track team in Paris.
Sha’Carri Richardson is hoping to bring home a gold medal from the 2024 Olympic games, the first time for an American woman since 1996. Following her dismissal from the Tokyo games due to a positive drug test, Richardson has been even more focused on competing and winning, taking gold in the 100m at the 2023 World Track and Field Championships as well as leading the U.S. women to 4x100m relay gold.
Team USA is favored, once again, to win gold in the water polo games, in large part because of the dominating performance of goalkeeper Ashleigh Johnson. Going for a third gold medal, Johnson is regarded as the best women’s water polo goalkeeper in the sport.
Stepping on the Olympic stage of women’s weightlifting ranked in second place in the 71 kg division, 20 year old Olivia Reeves is giving Team USA a real shot at a gold medal even though she technically qualifies as a junior athlete. Gearing up for her Olympic debit, Reeves set three American records as she won gold at the IWF World Cup in Thailand.
In similar fashion, 20 year old Amit Elor has made US history as she became the youngest woman to qualify for the Olympic wrestling team. Wrestling at 72 kg, Elor has won two consecutive world wrestling titles. However, 72 kg is not an Olympic weight, forcing Elor to drop to 68 kg for her first Olympic games.
David Taylor, the reigning Olympic champion wrestler 86 kg is looking for the repeat in Paris. With a gold under his belt and three world championship victories, it looks like his hope could be a reality, making him the third US wrestler to do win consecutive Olympic gold medals.
These superior athletes are a few dozen of the amazing talent that will soon be taking center stage at the Paris Olympics. Proudly wearing the red, white and blue, their talent, ability, grit and perseverance will showcase the best that America has to offer.
Sheep And Goat Clinic Held At The Fairgrounds
Jody Reeves
Several local youth were able to take part in a sheep and goat showmanship clinic last week. Jennifer Smith who is the owner and operator of J2 Livestock and Productions currently serves as the goat chairman on the market animal committee for the Caribou County Fair. Jennifer has been involved in raising and showing boer goats for several years. Since taking over the goat chairman position last fall she has been very active in helping the youth and the fair work to improve the already fast growing market goat program locally in the county. In addition to fundraising and being a 4H leader herself Jennifer has used her vast experience and knowledge to make connections for local families to those that have been involved in showing for several years.
One of those connections is Rockin HW Show Stock out of Mendon Utah. Rockin HW Show Stock got its start when the oldest of three sisters Hannah started showing sheep in 2016. From there things just grew for the Welker family as Hannah was soon joined by younger sisters Ashley and Nicole and the sheep were joined by goats. The sisters have put a lot of time and effort into bettering themselves and others in the show ring. They have shown in several jackpots and fairs all over the western United States. The Welkers and Smiths
friendship that began when the Welkers were looking to purchase show goats from the Smiths has blossomed into a great amount of mutual success in breeding and showing goats. This friendship is what gave Jennifer Smith the idea of bringing the Welkers to Caribou County to put on a clinic for our local youth. Any youth that are planning on showing sheep or goats at the county fair were invited to attend.
There was a great turnout last Thursday evening for the event. The local youth were encouraged to bring their animals to the fairgrounds to get instruction on what to expect at the fair show as well as tips to help make their performance in the ring the best that it could be. Due to the large turnout the youth were split into two groups, an older group and a younger group. Rockin HW spent close to two hours working with the youth and their animals covering several areas of showmanship. As the clinic came to a close the Welkers expressed how impressed they were with the local youth causing Nichole to comment, “I was very happy with how
much they listened and were willing to learn.”
Jennifer Smith was pleased with the turnout and stated, “The more you get those kids out with their animals the better. They'll be less nervous at the county fair.” When asked what advice they would give someone just starting out in showing livestock the Welkers proudly displayed their matching farm shirts which read, “Practice like you've never won, perform like you've never lost.” For a chance to see local youth display their livestock showing skills you can go to the Caribou County Fair August 5th through the 10th. The livestock shows will take place at 8 a.m. on August 7th and 8th.
ATV Rodeo Returns To The County Fair
Jody Reeves
The ATV rodeo during last year's Caribou County Fair quickly became one of the favorite events for fairgoers. With a combination of kids and adult events where the participants were, for the most part locals, gave the audience plenty to cheer for. Many of the ATV rodeo events will be back along with something new for those that are over age sixty that are looking for their own adrenaline rush. Kids events, classified for participants 12 years of age or under, will include pole bending, barrel racing and a straight race. The pole bending participants will weave through construction cones going one direction then race back to the finish line. The kids will be split into two divisions for this event. A 8-12 division and a 7 and younger division. The barrel racing event will be the same as a traditional rodeo barrel race where participants will race around three total barrels. The straight race event will split participants by bike size i.e. electric, 50s, 100cc and up. The 13 years of age and older events include a Log Hop Race, Long Jump, 4x4 Relay Race and the popular Balloon 4-Wheeler Competition. The log hop race will feature two participants racing head to head going over a series of logs placed in the arena. The winner of each head to head will remain in the competition until there is only one rider left. In the long jump contest each contestant will get three attempts with their longest attempt being the one that counts. The participant with the longest jump wins. The 4x4 relay race will consist of four teams of four participants. Participants will be selected for teams by the ATV Rodeo committee. Each par-
ticipant will race two times around the track then exit the arena before the next team member begins their laps. The first team to have all four participants complete their two laps and exit the arena wins the race. The Balloon 4-wheeler competition will have twelve teams of two participants. One participant will be the driver and the other the passenger. The passenger will have a balloon taped to their helmet while holding a pool noodle. Teams will drive around cones in the center of the arena trying to pop the other teams balloons with their pool noodles. The last team with a balloon
remaining wins. The ATV Rodeo Committee is very excited to add a new event this year. The Blind F”old” Race is for participants that are 60+ years of age. This event will be performed with teams of two on a side by side atv. This will be a head to head race through a designated course. The winner of each head to head will remain in the competition until only one team remains and is declared the winner. The catch to this event is the driver will be blindfolded while the passenger tries to verbally guide them through the course. Hilarity should ensue.
If you are interested in signing up for any of the events you will need to be at the Cinderblock building at the fairgrounds on August 2nd from 6-8 p.m. Anyone younger than 18 years of age on the day of the event must have a parent or legal guardian sign a waiver before they are allowed to participate. Each kid event has a $5 entrance fee and each adult event is $10. Helmets are required for all participants. There will be a riders meeting for all participants August 9th at 6:30 before the event begins at 7:30.
Jr showman receiving instruction on how to set up their animals. Jennifer Smith (far right) joined by Rockin HW Show Stock members listed left to right Dave Welker, Hannah Walker, Nichole Welker, Ashley Welker.
Sr. showmen practice walking their animals for the upcoming fair show.
Competitors line up during last years ATV Rodeo