The Idaho Enterprise/Caribou County | July 25, 2024 by The City Journals

Big Boy Steam Engine brings hundreds out to the tracks

With a line of cars stretching as far as the eye could see in both directions, the train crossing on Main Street in Soda Springs was packed with people waiting to get a look at the Union Pacific “Big Boy” no. 4014. The train is the largest steam locomotive which is known to be in operation, and the only one of the original twenty-five (only eight still remain) built for Union Pacific railroad to navigate the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains still in use. The others are housed in various museums devoted to railroad history, but this living piece of that history was restored and converted from coal fuel to a more modern oil standard. The trains were initially designed for use between Wyoming and Utah, and the summer runs—which began as part of a 150 anniversary celebration of the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 2019—go from Cheyenne to California and back. The Soda Springs stop is part of its return trip.

Pictures don’t necessarily do the train justice, as its “Big Boy” moniker is no joke. The locomotive is just over 16 feet tall, and 85 feet long. In person, it dwarfed even the very large crowd that had turned out to see its historic trip. As a result of the crowds and the eager attention paid by young and old alike, the visit required a large safety crew composed of UP officials, Railroad police, the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office, and many volunteers. Alan David is one of the volunteers, who says that he “helps out as much as I can” during the summer tour. David keeps a Facebook page of his adventures following the train with his dog Max on a page called “Where is Max Today?” Max had elected to stay inside during the visit, as the temperatures stayed on the hot side, especially at 3:00 in the afternoon. David was also himself busy making sure that onlookers stayed at least 25 feet back from the tracks.

“This is a pretty awesome thing to see,” David said. “But we have to make sure everyone stays safe out here.” As the train approached, shaking the ground and blowing its iconic stack, spontaneous cheers broke out from the crowd. David just smiled, having seen people react this way plenty of times in the past. “It’s not the same until you actually see it,” he said.

After the train had come to a stop, the crowd was free to approach it more closely (though no one was allowed on the train itself), and witness its spectacular size up close. From the playful “Big Boy” scrawled across the front of the locomotive to the loaded cars behind it, the no. 4014 was a sight to behold, and may have converted even a few who hadn’t realized they were “train people” until just then. From the time it pulled to a stop until it disappeared from view heading toward Montpelier, a constant salute of phones and cameras covered its progress like a towering rock star from times past, which it can fairly be said to be. For those who made it downtown to see what the fuss was all about, the question was likely answered. For those who didn’t, make sure to catch the “Big Boy” the next time you have a chance.

Main Street Project Update

The Main Street Project is now in week two. The project will give Main Street a complete face lift and is expected to take three months to complete. Everything including the asphalt, curb, sidewalk, and gutter will be replaced. New lighting will be added. A new drainage system will be installed to help reduce ice buildup and standing surface water during winter melt off and heavy rainfall. The water and sewer lines, originally laid in 1952making them 70+ years old, will also be replaced.

This project has become a “heated topic” on social media and among business owners and members of the community. Misinformation and rumors contribute to much of the talk. I have been attending city council meetings regularly and working with city employees on several issues. I am the Chamber of Commerce President and on the Community Development Foun-

dation as well as the city’s Greater Soda Springs Community Development Committee. I also am a board member of the Southeast Idaho High Country Tourism Council. I felt it might be helpful to share the details of the project, which are available to the public, to clarify the misunderstandings. I do not favor the city, the contractor or the business owners in writing this article, rather I just want to share information with the community.

WHAT DOES THE CITY PAY FOR? The city pays for water main line maintenance and repairs, the water treatment plant, sewer main lines maintenance and repair, and garbage pickup. They purchase power at a reduced rate and provide it to residents. They pay for law enforcement and protection, including vehicle leases and radios and cameras for each vehicle. They pay for fire and prevention, animal control and shelter, weed control, snow removal, road repair/maintenance, parks and recreation, the library, the airport, all

city employees’ wages and their benefits, equipment (dump trucks, plows, 4 wheelers, vehicles, etc.), capital projects and of course any city property maintenance and repairs.

HOW IS THE CITY FUNDED? The city’s main source of funding comes from property taxes. The city also applies for various grants to fund specific projects. The monthly utility bill that residents receive from the city is for power, water, sewer and garbage. The revenue from water and sewer has to stay in the water fund and the sewer fund. Per Idaho Code, it cannot be used for other purposes. Included in the monthly sewer bill, residents and businesses are also paying $13 per month on a sewer bond. The city contracts with MR&E to do city garbage pickup and the city collects the monthly fee from the residents on their utility bill. The benefit of this is that the city

President Joe Biden Drops out of 2024 Presidential Election

On Sunday, President Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 race to the White House. President Biden said in a letter to the American people, “It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.” President Biden has now endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to take his place in the election.

Delta is still canceling flights while other airlines return to normal After a computer update problem caused more than 5,000 flight cancellations around the world, things are pretty much back to normal, except for Delta Air Lines. Delta canceled more than 1,500 on Friday, which was more than a third of its schedule. That is more than any other airline in the world. Most U.S. airlines only canceled 1% of its flights where roughly one out of every 6 scheduled Delta flights were canceled. CEO Ed Bastian apologized and said the problem was attributed to the computer program affecting its “crew tracking” software. “One of our crew tracking-related tools was affected and unable to effectively process the unprecedented number of changes triggered by the system shutdown,” Bastain wrote to customers. “Our teams have been working around the clock to recover and restore full functionality.” According to Bastains message, the busy summer travel season made it worse for passengers.

13-year-old girl drowns at Bear Lake

A 13-year-old girl drowned in Bear Lake on July 20, 2024. The sheriff’s office received many calls around 6 p.m. of a girl missing off the East Shore of the lake. The girl was found in the water but pronounced dead around 9 p.m.. At the family’s request, the girl’s identity has not been released so they can personally notify family members of her passing. Bear Lake County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the importance of wearing life jackets while engaging in water activities.

Founders Day July 27 in Lava Hot Springs

Lava Hot springs will hold its annual Founders Day on July 27. Events will include a pickleball tournament at 7 a.m. and a fun run/walk at 8 a.m. The Main Street Parade will be at 10:30 a.m. and a Party in the Park will follow at 11 a.m. and last until 2 p.m. The main location for events will be the City Park downtown, the primary location of all the events. All Founders Day events and activities are open to the public, and all proceeds raised by Founders Day will go to support the music and reading programs at Lava Elementary School.

Caribou County, Idaho

Debbie Dumont

No. 4014 steamed into town Monday afternoon, to the delight of everyone lucky enough to catch it.

While no one was able to

Main Street

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is able to negotiate the amount the residents are charged for garbage pickup. The city both produces and purchases power to provide to the residents and businesses in Soda Springs. The money collected for power bills goes into the power fund. It can be transferred to the general fund to pay for other projects, but it must be in the budget to do so. The city budget is roughly between $23 and $24 million annually, but half of that is grant money that the city expects to receive and then pay out for the specific projects, purchases and expenses.

FUNDING THE MAIN SREET PROJECT. The city holds its money in “funds” and the money in each fund is used to pay for the city’s expenses. The city plans and budgets for necessary capital projects and pays for them out of the Capital Project Fund. During the budgeting process every year, the city budgets the anticipated amounts across all funds of the city, including the Capital Projects Fund. If the city needs to complete a project but does not have enough funds to cover the cost of the project, they apply for various grants to help pay for the project. For the Main Street Project, the estimated the cost of the project is $2 million, and they applied for grants to help cover the cost of the project.

THE GRANT. In early 2023, the Governor signed House Bill 132, which created a Strategic Initiatives Grant Program, and Senate Bill 1189, which appropriated $100 Million for Idaho governments for 2024. These bills became Idaho Code 40-719. $50 million was designated for urban areas with a population greater than 50,000 people and $50 million for small urban/rural areas with a population less than 50,000 people. The funds were to be used in 2024 and the Idaho Transportation Board was to determine the application process and select the recipients. They received 20 applications totaling $123,721,199 from large urban areas and 107 applications totaling $169,552,047 from small urban/rural areas. This past January, the City of Soda Springs was selected and awarded $1.5 million for the Main Street Project. Since the project was expected to cost approximately $2 million, the city budgeted and will pay for the additional cost of the project from the Capital Projects Fund. The grant stipulates that the grant money can only be used for sidewalks, curbs, gutters and roadways. It cannot be used to upgrade water or sewer lines, for lighting or any other portion of the project. The grant also stipulates that it can only be used on public property.

It is noteworthy to mention that 48 total grants were awarded statewide, 11 to large urban areas and 37 to small urban/rural areas. 8 of those were awarded in District 6 (Southeast Idaho). In addition to the grant the City of Soda Springs received, Caribou County was awarded $1,635,000 for the Blackfoot River Road Project. Grace was awarded $1,003,000 for Center Street Culvert Replacement. That means a total of $4,138,000 or 8.3% of the $50,000,000 available to small urban/rural areas will be invested in projects in Caribou County. Georgetown, Lava Hot Springs, Malad, Pocatello and Shelley also were awarded grants in our district. SELECTING A CONTRACTOR. Idaho Code dictates how city governments go about selecting a contractor for capital projects. The city is required to publicly announce a project for bid

and for what period of time they will accept bids. Any contractor can submit a written bid. The city council then reviews and selects a contractor.

On the Main Street Project, the city only received 2 bids. One from A+ Contractors, locally owned by Cody Thompson, and one from RS Jobber, a Utah based company that is currently working on the new Maverik in Soda Springs. A+ Contractors bid the job at $2,177,182.50 and RS Jobber bid the job at $2,420,139. The city council reviewed and discussed the bid at a city council meeting in Early April. Councilman Ryan Carpenter respectfully removed himself from the vote, as he is an employee of A+ Contractors. The remaining 3 councilman unanimously selected A+ Contractors.

DETERMINING THE COST TO BUSINESS OWNER’S. For the Main Street Project, the city believes that it makes the most sense to replace the 70+ year old water and sewer lines while they are exposed. The sewer main line runs down the middle of Main Street. There are no valves, the line is gravity-run from the buildings on main street to the main line and then down Main Street. The water main line runs down main street just past the edge of the sidewalk on the east side of the road. There is a pressure control valve where the building owner’s lines connect to the main line. City Code 13.08.160 (water) and City Code 13.12.060 (sewer) says that the residents own the lines up to where they hook into the mainline and that residents are responsible for the cost to replace/repair the line and any roadway and/or sidewalk that is removed to repair/replace the lines.

A+ Contractor’s bid included the cost for replacing the building owner’s portion of water and sewer lines and connections; $2760 for water and $3165 for sewer, for a total of $5925. The city has decided to pay the contractor for the building owner’s upgrades and then bill the individual building owners. The City Council decided to offer the building owners a 3-year payment plan at zero percent interest. This

breaks down to $167 per month, which will be billed as a separate line item on their monthly utility bill.

THE CONTROVERSY. Business Owners are upset because the cost, initially rumored to be $1000 - $1500, turned out to be $6000 and is being REQUIRED of the businesses. Business owners have expressed concern that this cost is unreasonably high. The Till Then Boutique just replaced their water line earlier this spring, and they are being required to replace it again. Cody Thompson, owner of A+ Construction, stated at the city council meeting where his bid was accepted that it would easily cost $20,000 to replace the building owners’ lines if the lines weren’t already exposed and the owner had to pay to replace the sidewalk, curb and road themselves. Several business owners have expressed that they will not pay the $6000 bill, and a few have sought legal counsel.

For comparison purposes only, RS Jobber bid the cost of replacing the building owners portion of the lines at $2205 for water and $4510 for sewer, a total of $6715. This is $790 more than A+ Contractors bid of $5925.

The project has been planned so that the new sewer lines, both the main line and the building owners’ line, will be replaced as the construction works its way down Main Street. They will pump out the old sewer lines as they go to prevent backup into the buildings. The new water lines will be laid next to the old ones and a “switchover” will take place after all line have been laid in place, pressurized and sanitized. The contractor does not anticipate any businesses to have to close, even for a day, and they estimate the “switchover” to take less than an hour, which they plan to do after normal business hours. The sidewalks will remain intact until later in the project, allowing patrons to use the sidewalk to get to and from the businesses. The city plans to send an email each week to the business owners updating them on the progress of the project and informing them of the schedule for the upcoming week.

Typically, people tend to avoid high

construction areas, leading to less business for business owners in the construction area. Business owners on Main Street are concerned that the project will affect their business so severely that they may be forced to close their doors permanently. The businesses on the west side of the street have rear entrances and parking available for patrons. The businesses on the east side of the street, including Idan-Ha Theatre, Main Street Diner, Cris James Attorney, and Tilly’s Chop Shop, do not have rear entrances or rear parking available for patrons.

PARKING. Last week no parking was allowed on Main Street and this week they have allowed parallel parking along the eastside sidewalk, but it caused some risky situations, so expect ‘no parking’ to be implemented and enforced again soon. City Councilman Paul Gritton has provided a map of the downtown area, where parking is available. Patrons can park on Center Street and East First South, anywhere around City Park, and on Highway 30. The Ender’s Parking Lot and Eastman Drug parking lot are also available for parking. Caribou County has offered the parking lot at the County Building on the North side of the tracks for additional parking as well. Fire Chief Dan Squires would like to remind the public not to park in front of the Fire Station, as they need to be able to get their firetrucks out in the event of an emergency.

There is no doubt that this project will create a burden on the businesses on Main Street and that it will be difficult for customers to access the businesses, especially those on the east side of Main Street. It is especially important to support our Main Street Businesses during the project. They are an integral part of our community, and it would be a shame if any of them were forced to close their doors for good. The city is trying to breathe some life into Main Street, which has numerous vacant buildings, crumbling sidewalks and curbs and 70+ year old infrastructure. Main Street will be fresh and new once the project is complete.

Southeast Idaho Family Proud to Serve as they plan move to Morocco

Jared and Patricia Sorensen, along with their three children Meg, Cali, and Jovie, grew up in Grace and Soda Springs, and lived in Malad for a time, where they thought they might stay forever. However, as the Sorensens know, staying in one place is not the standard course for many military families. After recently living in Santaquin, Utah, the family will make their biggest move yet, to Morocco.

While the family busily prepares for their move, Patricia took some time out of her schedule to speak with the Enterprise about what life is like for military families, and what they are looking forward to in their new adventure.

I asked Patricia to talk about the couple’s background, and their connection to southeast Idaho. Patricia explains, “Growing up in Soda Springs and Grace was amazing. I loved living in a small neighborhood where we would run around the neighborhood all day until the street lights came on. My husband loved living on a farm with mountains in his backyard. We loved both having a tight-knit community where everywhere you go you would see familiar faces. Believe it or not, we both loved knowing everyone in our classes and being involved with lots of activi-

This map was created by Councilmember Paul Gritton to illustrate parking alternatives to Main Street. Some conditions may change throughout the course of the project, which is now anticipated to last through October.

The Sorensen Family: Jared, Patricia, Meg, Cali, and Jovie.

Idaho Family

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ties at school. We definitely are smalltown people. We started our family in Caribou County and ended up moving to Malad, ID. That is where we thought we would grow old and have grandkids come to visit. We wanted to raise our family in a small town and have them have the same experiences as we did. The plan changed and the military moved us to Santaquin, UT, closer to my husband's military job.”

Jared joined the Army National Guard while still in high school on his 18th birthday. “It wasn't his first plan but knew it was something he needed to do before he served his mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints,” Patricia says. “Before the end of his initial contract of 8 years (we were married by then) he wanted to re-enlist despite our ‘agreement of getting out.’” According to Patricia, he had “fallen in love with his military community” and wanted to continue to see where it would take him. He later commissioned as an officer. In the beginning, the National Guard was a part-time military position he did with his regular job but it eventually brought him to a National Guard full-time position that took the family to Utah.

Although the family had initially wanted to raise the kids in southeast Idaho, Patricia says that “living in Utah Valley isn't as bad as we thought, but we do miss the ‘small town feel’ and the slower pace of life. We tried to move to the smallest ‘town’ in Utah Valley (Santaquin), but we still have to drive everywhere on I-15,” she laughs. “Our oldest graduated this year with 430 students in her graduating class in Payson.” For comparison, Patricia points out that “mine was around 80ish in Soda Springs and my husband's was 40ish in Grace.”

Literally half-way around the world,

Morocco will be a massive change for the family in many ways. As far as Patricia can predict now, “we are excited for the ‘cultural explosion’ our whole family is going to get to experience. This includes holidays, foods, people, and a totally different way of lie. Being in Morocco will allow us to travel to places we wouldn't have immediate access to in the states (Europe and Africa). We also know our family will be given many service opportunities in the area we will be at.

Although the change will certainly be exciting, I asked Patricia how they will manage to stay “anchored” as a family with such a big change on the horizon? Patricia explains that “We couldn't do it without our extended family and community support. We already have family booking their flights for a visit. It helps to have those events to look forward to. We have kept our home in Santaquin, UT so that when we come ‘home’ we get to come ‘home’ to our neighbors and friends.”

The situation is somewhat unique to military families, in that they are to some extent subject to the needs of the position at any given time. “We have had it easier than some as a military family. My husband has traveled the world but only for a few weeks or a month at a time. We have hit the jackpot by having him only go on one year long deployment. He has missed only a handful of major events but has been a phone call or a facetime away. We've been blessed with amazing military friends who have been a great support and who know first hand the struggles and complexities that come with it.”

If everything goes according to plan, this should be the last major move for the foreseeable future. “We plan to return to Utah and pick back up where we left off,” Patricia says. “Jared will return to the Utah National Guard and wait patiently for his next assignment.

Casting Shade On The Playground

Alana Burns, Friends of Soda Springs City Park

As the temperatures this summer season have heated up many people have retreated to the shadows for reprieve. Staying indoors and in shaded areas is a great choice for those who want to escape the heat. Unfortunately, this has often meant that a jewel of our community isn’t being used as much as we had hoped.

Starting Off Strong

The Friends of the Soda Springs City Park has some exciting news! We recently received a donation of $5,000 from Guardian Realty, a local real estate brokerage who received a grant from the Idaho Realtors Association, for shade coverings at the Maverik Caribou CommUNITY Playground. Caribou Ford and Liberty CDJR in Montpelier also generously donated a total of $4,000 towards this project, bringing us closer to our goal of providing area children with shade over this popular attraction! The City of Soda Springs has also generously offered to lend support of this project to provide assistance in engineering the structures as well as donating in-kind labor for the installation.

A Proposed Solution

These proposed shade coverings will help provide the following benefits to the community:

• Extend outdoor time by keeping the play area cooler and shaded, so that kids and adults can enjoy time at the

playground during the hot summer months without hurting themselves on hot equipment.

• Help protect from excess exposure to UV rays, which can help lower the risk of developing cancer later in life.

• Help shield against bad weather, giving people in the community a chance to hang out and play as much as possible, which is the goal of any public playground.

• Reduce the incidents of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, sunburns and blisters.

• Makes the playground useful for more hours each day during hot weather months, further justifying the expense that was put into building this playground.

• Protects this community investment from sun damage, thus keeping the playground looking appealing and inviting for many years to come.

Who We Are

The Friends of the Soda Springs City Park, established in 2016, is a non-profit organization comprised of volunteers from Caribou County who had a dream to build an all-inclusive playground in downtown Soda Springs. That dream was made a reality in the summer of 2018, when the community came together to pay for and build the Maverik Caribou CommUNITY Playground. Since the completion of the playground the Friends of the Soda Springs City Park continues to be involved in maintaining and improving the playground by assisting with ongoing maintenance

He is planning on retiring in a few years after we get back.”

For those who are considering becoming a military family, or who are dealing with some of the related issues either positive or negative, Patricia has these thoughts, “Being a military family has its ups and downs. For sure the ‘ups’ outweigh the ‘downs.’ It really has blessed our whole family. Our kids have even had many opportunities with leadership experiences through camps and youth-groups. Know your military and community resources and let others around you help. Don't do it alone especially during a deployment or other hard assignments. It's important to support our soldiers and their families because we need good men and women to serve our nation. We need to make it

easier for them, not harder.”

The Enterprise would like to thank the Sorensens for taking time to speak with us, and more importantly to thank Jared and his family for their service. “She leaves friends, neighbors, and fellow servicemember families with these words, “even though it seems daunting to join the military, it can open doors to paths and experiences that may not ever be possible elsewhere. There are so many opportunities, even for families, that can come with military service (jobs, schooling, travel, leadership, activities) And, you don't have to join the military or be a military family to show you value America and are patriotic. You can just help, uplift, and care for those you know who are a part of this community.”

issues and costs, and paying for and installing security cameras in partnership with the City of Soda Springs and with a grant from Silver Star Communications, further improving the safety of the playground for children as well as improving efforts to preserve the play equipment and rubber surfacing. Our Plan

The projected budget for the shade coverings is $50,000. This number is an estimate and is subject to change based off of the finalized design of the shade structures. Once a final design is chosen by the City of Soda Springs, engineering is completed, and bids are obtained for the work to be performed, we will update the community regarding the final budget and shade structure design. This $50,000 budget was preliminarily determined based off of two bids received at the beginning of this project. While we are still in the process of finalizing the design of the shade

coverings as well as the budget, we are also dealing with a time requirement of when the Idaho Realtors Association Grant money must be used during 2024. For this reason, we are aiming to complete our fundraising efforts entirely by December 31, 2024. Our intention is to join with the community as soon as possible to meet this demand, so that this project can be completed by the end of the year. That means money will be fundraised and spent to purchase all building materials needed, with shade structure poles set in place and ready for play time in Spring 2025. As always, it’s a race against winter! If you or your business is interested in helping support this project in any way please reach out to Laura Lind (208-604-0885) or Alana Burns (702581-8371).

*Proposed designs submitted by Superior Shade and Great Western Recreation

Maj. Jared Sorensen in the field.

Carlie Clark, Brandi Carroll, Simon Birch, Melanie Birch, Laura Lind, Alana Burns

Alana Burns, Colton Kladis (Service Manager at Caribou Ford), Laura Lind

Design submitted by Great Western Recreation.

Alana Burns, Evan Wilson (GM of Caribou Ford & Liberty CDJR), Laura Lind

The Fair is coming August 5!

It’s very nearly that time of year again, and the Caribou County Fair is headed to the Fairgrounds in Grace for a week of demonstrations, competition, food, art, motor sports, community, and fun. This year’s fair will feature many of the popular events of the past, as well as some new features like the Kids Market.

The summer can seem like a neverending series of festivals, parties, parades, cookouts, and celebrations of one thing or another, but the fair is different in a few important ways. For one, it really does signal

something of an end to the summer season, coming as it does so near the beginning of the next school year. For another, while its goals certainly include entertaining the public, they also include providing a chance for artists, rodeo athletes, and aspiring farmers, ranchers, and others to show off their hard work and compete at a high level against their peers. While events like the ATV Rodeo, the Pet Show, the hypnotist and others provide fun and diversion for everyone, the open class categories, rodeos, quality and showmanship

Caribou County Fair Schedule

Monday, August 5

Fair Grand Marshals Glenna and Lynn Rasmussen

Caribou County Fairboard

lowing

4-H/FFA Beef Quality and Showmanship Open class Beef immediately following

9:00 a.m. 4-H/FFA open Poultry, Rabbits, Pigeons, and Fur bearing animals judged

10:00 a.m. Exhibit Buildings Open

1:00 p.m. 4-H Round Robin

2:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. The Adventure Zone

2:00 p.m. Hypno Hick under the Big Top

2:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Mimealot around Fairgrounds

3:00 p.m. 4-H/FFA Livestock Judging Contest

5:30 p.m. Hypno Hick under the Big Top 6:00 p.m. Top 10 IJRA Rodeo in Arena

Friday, August 9

EVENT CALENDARS

SODA SPRINGS/ CARIBOU COUNTY

July 25 – Thursday

Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)

IDAN-HA Movie Youth Football

July 26 – Friday

Caribou County Senior Dinner

Bridge @ The Senior Center

Catholic Daily Mass (9am)

IDAN-HA Movie

Youth Football

July 27 – Saturday

IDAN-HA Movie

July 28 – Sunday

Presbyterian Services

Caribou Bible Church Services

Catholic Mass (8:30am)

Open Arms Church Services

LDS Services

Hope Lutheran Church

July 29 – Monday

Catholic Daily Mass (9am)

Movie in the Park (Dusk)

July 30 – Tuesday

IDAN-HA Matinee Summer Movie

July 31 – Wednesday

Caribou County Senior Dinner

Pinochle @ The Senior Center

Catholic Daily Mass (9am)

Children Story Time @ Library

10:30am or 11:30am

IDAN-HA Movie

IHSAA Board Meeting

August 1 – Thursday

Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)

IDAN-HA Movie County P&Z (7pm)

GRACE

July 28 – Sunday LDS Services

July 29 – Monday

Preschool Story Hour @ Library 10:30am

BANCROFT

July 28 – Sunday LDS Services

ON THIS DAY

1837 the first commercial use of an electric telegraph successfully demonstrated by William Cooke and Charles Wheatstone between Euston and Camden Town in London

1853 Joaquin Murrieta, the famous Californian bandit known as “Robin Hood of El Dorado” is killed by California Rangers

1854 Walter Hunt is awarded the first U.S. patent for a paper shirt collar

1868 U.S. congress forms Wyoming Territory (Dakota, Utah & Idaho)

1940 American John Sigmund begins swimming for 89 hours, 46 minutes from St. Louis to Caruthersville, Missouri in the Mississippi River; 292 miles, longest solo swim of all time

1964 Beatles’ album “A Hard Day’s Night” goes #1, stays #1 for 14 weeks

1980 Atlantic Records/and Albert Productions release “Back in Black”, the seventh studio album by AC/DC; their first featuring lead singer Brian Johnson is a worldwide smash, selling over 50 million copies

1983 First non-human primate (baboon) conceived in a lab dish, San Antonio

1984 Cosmonaut Svetlana Savitskaya becomes first woman to walk in space

1997 Scientists announce the first human stem cells to be cultured in a laboratory using tissue taken from aborted human embryos

1999 86th Tour de France: Lance Armstrong wins first of 7 consecutive Tour de France titles but is later disqualified for drug cheating

2016 Verizon announces $4.83 billion purchase of Yahoo

Caribou County Historical Society Field Trip!

Bill Horsley

The Caribou Historical Society is going on a field trip and everyone is invited. Children are welcome accompanied by a parent. We will meet at the Museum at 100 East Hooper Avenue July 27, 2024 starting at 9:30 am and leave by caravan sharply at 10:00 am. We anticipate the tour will take around three hours and end at Hooper Springs with a picnic lunch and socializing so bring a sack lunch and something to drink unless you choose to hydrate up at the springs we visit in which case it wouldn’t hurt to bring your own cup. If you have binoculars you may find them useful at a couple of the sites we visit as we won’t be right next to the springs.

Many people may not realize that

in the early days of Soda Springs there were several springs of soda water right downtown or in people’s yards for that matter. We will identify where some of those were and what happened to them. We will also visit the springs that are still active and talk about their history. Some of the sites are on private property that we have secured permission to visit so keep in mind that you can’t just go and check them out on your own in more depth without securing permission yourself. Of the few still active springs I would guess many of you will be unaware of all of them or where they are located. We hope to have an enjoyable adventure, and an opportunity to share a little information about why this place is known as Soda Springs.

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

Tasting the waters at Hooper Springs in the late 1880's.

SENIOR CITIZENS’ CORNER August 2024

Chicken Salad Wrap

Directions:

CARIBOU COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS' MENU

Every meal served with Juice/Milk/ Coffee

July 26 - Chicken Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy, Beets, Bananas, Potato Bread, Coconut Cream Dessert

July 31 - Baked Spaghetti, Green Salad, Fruit Cocktail, Breadsticks, Cherry Pie Bars

Aug. 2 - Pork Chops, Stuffing, Glazed Carrots, Applesauce, Dilly Bread, Butter Pecan Cookies

Aug. 7 - Navajo Tacos, Mandarins, Mexican Wedding Cake

Aug. 9 - Creamy Chicken Fettuccini, Broccoli, Rolls, Berries & Cream

Aug. 14 - Shepherd's Pie, Corn, Pineapple, Oatmeal Bread, Nutella Cheesecake

Aug. 16 - Birthday Dinner, Chicken Stir Fry, Juice, White Bread, Birthday Cake & Ice Cream (In-House Only)

Aug. 21 - Biscuits & Gravy, Peas, Oranges, Coffee Cake

Aug. 23 - Roast Beef w/Mashed Potatoes, California Veggies, Apricots, Wheat Bread

Aug. 28 - BBQ Pork Ribs, Baked Beans, Cauliflower, Sourdough Bread, Peaches & Cream

Aug. 30 - Beef Stroganoff, Beets, Pears, Potato Bread, Pistachio Cake

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.

10 Years ago, 2014

A ribbon cutting was held in Soda Springs for the Caribou County Democratic Office. As far as people remembered at the time, there had never been an office by either the Democrats or Republicans in the county. It has been named the “Southeastern Idaho Democratic Command Center” and is located on 81 South Main, next to the IdanHa Theatre. Caribou County Democratic Chair Steve Stalcup said it has been at least forty years since an office was set up in the county, if ever. Among those present for the ceremony by the Chamber of Commerce were Richard Stallings, U.S. Representative candidate, Bert Marley, candidate for Lt. Governor, Ashlee Stalcup, candidate for District 32 state Rep, and Ralph Mossman, Legislative District Chair. Stallings noted that many see a shift in the wind in Idaho politics that would focus more on education and raising wages across the state.

The third annual Geyser Day is planned for August 2. Highlights of the day will include a wild salmon dinner, music from the Mike Banks Jazz Band, a vendor market, historical rides and fun for kids. After the park, Main Street will be the location of a dance party led by KYD J Band. Event organizers Teresa Watkins and Suzie Nelson said “We live in a beautiful area with so much to offer and we want a day to show it off and associate with friends, neighbors, and visitors. All are welcome.” A Fun Run/Walk from Bailey Creek, Flag ceremony in front of the courthouse, Wild Salmon dinner, kids parade, guided tour of Enders, Union Pacific Street Train, and more were planned.

Todd Smith of Soda Springs called the Sun to report the Famous Soda Springs geyser had been featured on the Tonight Show recently. Host Jimmy Fallon gave a segment of “thank yous” and a picture of the geyser was flashed on screen. What Fallon said he was thankful for was “geysers being Nature’s bidet”. The image was not directly identified as the Soda Springs geyser, and was probably pulled as a generic image according to Todd’s analysis, but he was certain it was the Soda Geyser, and this was confirmed by clips on the internet featuring the segment.

20 Years ago, 2004

Earl Somsen, retiring trustee of the Soda Springs Joint School District 150, was honored at the school board meeting held at Grays Lake Elementary in Wayan. The Grays Lake community gathered for a potluck dinner honoring Somsen’s 15 years of service and his commitment to education and the children of the district. Somsen served on the school board from 1998 to 2004. With over 15 years of service, he has been involved in a number of district projects including construction of Tigert Middle School, remodel of Thirkill Elementary, lighting of the SSHS softball field, Soda Springs high School auditorium improvements, and upgrades of sound systems of the SSHS auditorium and Hooper Elementary.

At the Idaho Association of Pupil Transportation’s Annual Conference held in Boise, Richard Kirby was named Idaho School Bus Driver of the Year. He was selected from nominees throughout the state for the honor. Kirby has been a fulltime driver for the Grace School District for 35 years. His dedication and love of children have made him a valuable member of the school district’s transportation team. He is always willing to do anything it takes to make things run smoothly.

Magistrate Judge Ronald Hart accepted a $1,000 grant last week from Ellen McKenzie of the Idaho Dept of Health and Welfare and Nancy Lopez, H&W underage drinking specialist, to aid in the efforts of the local committee to address underage

drinking concerns. Barbara Peterson of Grace was the elected chair of the coalition of Caribou County officials and residents to work on the problem.

Caribou County firemen put out a line of grass fires caused by a 7200 volt power line that fell across U.S. Highway 30 near Grace junction last Wednesday afternoon. Deputy Rick Stokoe said the line came down while state DOT crews were working in the area and a road grader had just passed under it. It was hot enough that it left holes in the asphalt that were still smoking some time after the incident. UP&L crews and the sheriff’s office responded, along with the fireman, as traffic was shut down until power was shut off. Cause was not known at the time of the accident.

Caribou Memorial Hospital and Living Center is getting a new $86,000 roof to replace the original, which has been in place since 1969, hospital maintenance supervisor Carl Lemons said. Over the past few years, the roof has been leaking in spots, notably in the front lobby of the hospital. Thirty-five years is a long time for a roof, especially for a flat roof. A new one has been needed, but there was no money in the budget until recently.

The Ricks College Dance Showcase USA, a dance troupe consisting of 25 dancers and a five piece bluegrass band, will be participating at three folk dance festivals during the month of August with its encore appearance in China. The Ricks College team was invited to the Chinese festival by the dancers from China that participated in the Idaho International Folk Dance Festival in Rexburg. Members of the Dance Team USA include Cece Craner of Soda Springs.

The Bancroft City Park was the site for the Melvin and Grace Hansen family reunion and the delayed 60th wedding anniversary of the Hansens. Their wedding anniversary date was Feb 9. More family members were able to attend during the summer. Acitivities included swimming, rafting, games, and a theater production by the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, storytelling by Crazy Coyote, and lots of eating and visiting. The Hansen children attending included Monty from Anaquertis, Washington, Deon of Las Vegas, NV, Sharon from Provo, UT, Meljean from Yorba Linda, CA, Marie of Grace, Roy of Arimo, and Betty of Bancroft. Terry of Albuquerque, Lynn of San Jacinto, CA, and Lillian of Huntington Beach, CA were unable to attend. There are 60 grandchildren and 62 greatgrandchildren.

30 Years ago, 1994

Bryon Russell, the 6’7” small forward for the Utah Jazz in his second year, visited Grace. He made a stop at Grace High School to meet with the youth of the Grace Little League Basketball program. All present were in awe of his size and his ability to handle the ball. The participants were given some ball handling techniques, in drills taught to them by Russell and Dave Wilson. Wilson is the director of the Utah Jazz Youth Basketball program. Bryon then dazzled everyone with a few slam dunks. Wilson passed out pictures of Bryon and cards of other Jazz players. Bryon then took time to autograph anything and everything the kids brought from shirts and hats to basketballs. It was exciting to have someone of Bryon’s caliber visit the youth of Grace.

Over 750 rainbow trout about 10 inches long were planted last week in the Bear River near Grace. Most of the fish were released from the Turner Bridge into Black Canyon, with virtually no losses from the 100-foot drop. Others were put in the Bear River at the Highway 34 bridge at Grace. IDFG personnel helping with the release were Wes Cannon, Grace conservation officer, Grace Hatchery Superintendent Rob Hill, and Tom Frew, fisheries specialist from Boise. Hugh Norman of the Soda Springs Rotary Club presented Dewey and Linda Anderson of Soda Springs with a plaque of appreciation for their years of community service.

The service organization honored the Andersons at the Friday night showing of “Annie Get Your Gun.” Together Dewey and Linda have used their furniture stores as an outlet for any and nearly every community play, concert, pageant, or fair. On July 16, a child abuse benefit will be presented by the Anderson family at the high school auditorium, with admittance by donation.

40 Years ago, 1984

Researchers hope to see 12 to 15 young cranes join the fall migration of the intermountain wild whooping crane flock as a result of this year’s hatch. Elwood Bizeau of the University of Idaho, said the young from this year’s hatch will join about 25 older cranes in the flock. The other cranes range in age from one to eight years. Wildlife experts at UI have been placing whooping crane eggs from a wild flock at Wood Buffalo National Park in Canada and a captive flock at Patuxet Wildlife Research Center in Maryland under incubating foster parent sandhill cranes in an effort to establish a wild flock in the intermountain region. This year, for the first time ever, Ducks Unlimited of Canada supplied an airplane to move the crane eggs from Canada to Idaho. 32 eggs were placed and 24 hatched.

On behalf of the Mental Health Association, President Polly A. Peterson thanked the community for sponsoring the recent “Bell Ringer” campaign. Uriah Call, Toni Anderson, Bonnie Collins, Mrs. Rex Layland, Colleen Potter of Grace and Soda Springs were specifically thanked by name. The MHA is a non-profit organization of volunteers who believe strongly that citizen involvement in mental health issues can make a difference. The dollars raised in communities go toward the expansion of information and referral services and Citizen Companion program for those with chronic mental illness.

Chuck Stoddard ruminated on the nomination of Geraldine Ferraro as the 1984 Democratic Vice Presidential candidate. As Stoddard wrote: “[An] issue that concerns many people is the novelty question of a woman candidate. Will the novelty cloud the issues of the campaign? Will people vote for something just because it has never happened before? It would appear that there could be dangerous consequences unless the American people vote for candidates after a serious dialogue on present issues. Whether there is a woman running or not, never before has it been so important to consider the issues facing the nation. It is essential for the public to investigate platforms and political stands of each candidate regardless of sex, color, or creed. The future of America depends on candidates who will provide solid leadership and quality programs to sort out many problems facing the country today. The future of America will be decided in the next five months. We need to be involved in the decision making process.” The more things change…

55 Years ago, 1964

A wiener roast was held at Hooper last Tuesday, honoring Billy Barger on his ninth birthday. Guests included Mr. and Mrs. Lee Godfrey, Darla and Colleen Barger, Julie, Richard, and Tom Truchot, Pat Gill, Kim McCammon, Kerry Phelps, Steve Bunn, Roger and Annette Michaelson, Teresa Hogan, Kent Skinner, Kevin McCammon, Tammy Lapioli, Lonnie Smith, Sandra Wall, Marc Bolton, Doty, Jay, Ortie, and Mrs. Ingram. Billy’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Barger, hosted the party.

Kimette Ruger, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Ruger of Bancroft, has been chosen as one of the 22 girls from Idaho, and among the 3,000 girls from the United States, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, who will attend the national convention of the Future Homemakers of America, which will be held at the Conrad Hilton Hotel in Chicago this coming weekend. She plans to leave from Montpelier Sunday morning on the streamliner for six exciting days. Highlights scheduled for the week include the stage production of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying” and a land and lake tour.

Judge and Mrs. Francis Rasmussen and Attorney and Mrs. Wallace Transtrum are spending several days this week in Sun Valley where they are attending the state Judicial Conference and Bar Association annual convention. The Rasmussens will go to Boise from Sun Valley to attend to other business matters before returning home.

Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Alldaffer and daughters returned last weekend from Fort Collings, CO, where they attended a three week summer agriculture Extension School at Colorado State University. Mr. Alldaffer stated that there were 33 states and 22 countries represented in those classes. Mrs. Alldaffer and girls were able to attend some of the special field trips and also enjoyed other activities arranged for family members.

J.R. Simplot Company employees and their families met at the Diamond Creek Youth Camp Saturday for the company’s annual picnic. Special guests were Don Simplot, company Vice President, Hugh Larkins, Personnel Director.

Winners of the Farm Bureau Talent Find at the Grays Lake School House were pre-school age group: Buttons and Lisa Sibbett won with a song in the six to eight year old category, Jody Muir was the winner in the nine to twelve age group with a vocal solo. Two winners were selected in the thirteen to sixteen year group. A quartet consisting of Linda and Don Sibbett and Marilyn and Jalene Smith sang a song with Don accompanying on the guitar. An accordion solo by by Mary Lee Hamp was the winner of the seventeen to thirty age group. All of these will compete in the County Talent Find to be held in Bancroft. Mary Sibbett and Margaret Stoor were in charge of the program. The judges were Rhea Lau, Joy Christensen, and Chloe Elsworth. Kids Free Summer Matinee

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

2025 Proposed Fiscal Year Budget 10/01/2024 - 09/30/2025

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the Board of Bailey Creek Fire Department of Caribou County, Idaho, will meet on August, 6, 2024

At the hour of 7:00 p.m. at the location of Hydzik Residence 241 Old Oregon Road, Soda Springs, ID, 83276, For the purpose of considering and fixing a final budget and making appropriations to fund the Maintenance and Operation budget for the next fiscal year, at which time any taxpayer may appear and be heard upon any part of parts of the said tentative budget; and that the following table sets the amounts to be appropriated for the next fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024 and ending September 30, 2025 by said district, to-wit:

The proposed budget is based on the analysis of anticipated revenue as is reflected in the following schedule:

Fund Approved

Budget Cash Balance/ Other Revenue Property Tax Replacement Estimated Property Tax

Contract Labor $7,377.00 $1,000.00 3 $6,374.00 Bank/Publishing $170.00 $170.00 Tort $150.00 $150.00 Totals

$7,697.00 $1,000.00 $6,694

#1012-7-25-24-T1

WE DELIVER!

52 Weeks A Year

We Will Deliver Caribou County’s News To You! All For $55 yr. (in Caribou County) $67 per year outside of Caribou County.

Call or Email Us Today. 208-766-4773 or sherrie.w@idahoenterprise.com

P.O. Box 331, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276

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!!

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held before the Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Soda Springs, Idaho, on the 13th day of August 2024 at 6:05 P.M., at City Hall located at 9 West 2nd South, Soda Springs, Idaho, for the purpose to consider a Conditional Use Permit for a Forty (40) ft Shipping Container to be placed on the property for storage. In accordance to Ordinance No. 683. The property involved in this request is as follows:

Lots 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, Block 29, City of Soda Springs, according to the official plat thereof, as recorded in the office of the County Recorder of Caribou County, Idaho, under recorder’s instrument No. 211431; commonly known as 160 S 2nd E.

All persons present at the public hearings shall be allowed to be heard. Written comments or objections may be submitted to the Planning & Zoning Secretary at 9 West 2nd South, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276, or email chelseyd@sodaspringsid.com. Any person needing special accommodations to participate in the above hearing should contact Soda Springs City Hall at 208-547-2600 at least seven (7) days before the hearing.

Dated this 23rd day of July 2024. Chelsey Davids, Planning & Zoning Secretary

Map on page 4. Yellow Indicates Area Involved.

#1014-7-25-24-T1

NEWS OF RECORD

CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF

Brinlee Ella Andersen, Preston, driving with expired license, $44.50, costs $56.50

Sandesh Aravinda, Quincy, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Kobe Andrew Arrington, Brigham City, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Andrew Paul Cavallaro, Wilson, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Shiyong Chen, New York, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Kasey Mack Christensen, Riverton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Brandi Merritt Conover, Lakehills, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Camisha Ann Cripe, Pocatello, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Stephen J Diedrich, Nampa, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Andrew Scott Egan, North Logan, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Chandler D Ellis, Bancroft, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Jose Fonseca-Parra, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Douglas A Gonzalez Hernandez, Ogden, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Sharif Ronald Hadley, Park City, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Marcus Alejandro Hayes, Pocatello, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00

Kalob Ryan Hite, Salt Lake City, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Chih-Chung Huang, Phoenix, speeding, (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Raystan Joseph Josie, Tooele, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Taejeong Kim, Pasadena, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Jeffrey Thomas Lascalza, Corona, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Yize Li, Amherst, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Lucas J Lish, Pocatello, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Eledoro Lopez, Burley, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Clayton Wesley Lunt, Grace, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Joseph Cole Macpherson, Sugarloaf, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Magdalena Mendoza, Taylorsville, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

James Edward Montgomery, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

George Junior Marales, Blackfoot, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50; fail to register annually, $10.50, costs $56.50

Sheremie Lyn Ochsenbein, Paris, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Aanal Patel, Plantation, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Scott Andrew Soifer, Lawrence, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Narayana Swamy Reddy Talla, Frisco, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Elijah Scott Vanwoerkom, Roy, speeding (16

mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Juan Vazquez Padron, Grandview, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

William Preston Vernon, Orem, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Yazhi Wang, Monterey Park, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Hyrum Mathoni Watkins, Soda Springs, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Todd Byington Webb, Idaho Falls, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Jihan Zhuang, Houston, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

SODA SPRINGS POLICE

Angelica Ambriz, Surprise, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Sophia Mary Lynn Olsen, Pocatello, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Bradon D Buckway, Ogden, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Lisa Mae Cox, Evanson, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Andrew Scott Egan, North Logan, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50; improper or unsafe lane change, $33.50, costs $56.50

Jace William Elmer, West Haven, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Javier R Grimalodo Rodriquez, Ellijay, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Stephen Hu, Los Angeles, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Reveendranatha Ramananda, Santa Clara, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Alberto Zacarias, Chicago, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

IDAHO STATE POLICE

Morgan Ruth Egbert, Clinton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Harjinder S Ghotra, Whiteland, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Congxiang Wang, Chula Vista, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

IDAHO FISH AND GAME

Travis Dale Boyle, Ogden, fish with two poles without two pole permit, $72.00, costs $64.00

MAGISTRATE COURT

Randy Webb Broadhead, Roy, driving under the influence, $500.00, costs $202.50 – Agency: CCSO

Andrew Paul Cavallaro, Wilson, driving without privileges, $150.00, cost $172.50 –Agency: CCSO

Ceara D Ellingford, Richmond, false information provided on own identity or another's to an investigating law enforcement officer, $142.50, costs $157.50 – Agency: SSPD

Jeb Smith, Chubbuck, inattentive or careless driving, $300.00, costs $157.50, 12 month probation; possession of marijuana, $75.00, costs $257.50, 100 days jail, 99 days suspended, 12 months probation; use or possess drug paraphernalia with intent to use, $75.00, costs $197.50, 100 days jail, 99 days suspended, 1 day credit time served, 12 months probation –Agency: SSPD

OBITUARIES

John Chandler Slane II

May 13, 1943 – July 19, 2024

John Chandler Slane II passed away on July 19th at Caribou Medical Center after battling chronic degenerative joint disease. We find comfort in knowing that he is now free from pain and reunited with his parents, Georgia and Vernon Slane, his brother Walt, and his sisters Jeanette and Bertie Bea.

John was born on May 13, 1943, to Vernon and Georgia Slane in Worland, WY. He spent his early years in Thermopolis, WY, before moving to Pocatello, ID, in 1969. Since 2008, he has called Grace, ID, home.

At 15, he joined the Army instead of finishing high school and served for four years. During the Cold War, he was stationed at Fort Leonardwood, MO, and Büdingen, Germany. He was near Berlin when The Wall was erected. He also marched for President Kennedy in 1963.

Upon returning from the military, he married Ruthie Floyd, and to this union, John Chandler Slane, III, (J.C.) was born. They later divorced. In 1996, he met the love of his life, Leona Kay Faith on the internet. They were married on January 18th, 1997(exactly 27 ½ years, 1 day, 4 hours).

He was a hard worker, taking on various jobs such as working on a farm, ranch, coal mine, hospital, vacuum sales,andappliance repair. From 2003 to 2020, he enjoyed fulfilling his job as a travel nurse home executive. During that time, he visited 49 states (no Alaska), national parks, historical sites, and cruised the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH 1) from Port Angeles, WA to San Diego, CA. He also liked be`ing a golf caddie, fishing, camping, and panning for gold. The only time he got into knee-deep trouble at work was when he was bootlegging 8-tracks in the 1970s.

“He is survived by his wife, Kay Slane, from Grace, ID, his brother, Bill Slane, from Salem, UT, and his son, J.C. Slane, from Pocatello, ID. He was extremely close to his in-laws, Sarah (JR) Mills, Carl Faith, and Russell (Marcy) Faith. He

was a beloved father figure to Judy, Randy, Connie, Mitch, and Kalen and a cherished grandpa to Talah, Ashley, Brittany, Tim, Tyler, Brock, Isaac, and Jaycob. He was blessed by 5 greatgrands: Jayde, Kristian, Stephen, Michael and Thea. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, including Pat, Leann, Norma, Kim, Dan, and Ryan. Preceding him in death were Mitch, July, Tim, Tyler, and Brock, along with his special cousin, Jerry. His four-legged family includes his cats, Mila and Skitzo, as well as the husky, Zelda. Mila was definitely a daddy’s cat!

John had a fulfilling and eventful life. He always told his family and friends, “Just put my urn in front of the crowd, have a party, and the good times.” His service will be held at the Church of Latter-day Saints in Grace, ID at 1:00 p.m. Graveside services with military rights to follow at the Grace Cemetery. After the relief society’s luncheon, we invite you to come and have a beer at the Grace Lounge to celebrate John’s life and Kay’s birthday.

I remember when John and I went to get our marriage license in Clark County, Nevada (Las Vegas): He walked a block down the street to the convenience store and purchased a six-pack of beer to drink while we were standing in line.

Energy in the Wind

Allison Eliason

Green energy might not be a new thing, but it can’t be denied that there has been a sudden push over the latest administration’s term to totally overhaul energy production. Not long after Biden was signed into office, an executive order was pushed through that set lofty goals of increasing production of renewable energy on federal lands to a minimum of 25 gigawatts of electricity from wind, solar, and geothermal energy projects by 2025 As a result of that goal the Lava Ridge wind farm was proposed. The project included 400 turbines up to 740 feet in height sitting on 197,000 acres of land across the Idaho counties of Jerome, Lincoln, and Minidoka, northeast of Twin Falls. The site was selected for its optimal wind power, the power markets accessible by current and future power lines, and the lack of land use constraints.

Aside from the turbines themselves, the wind farm will also include up to seven new substations, approximately 198 miles of 34.5 kilovolt (kV) collector lines, 34 miles of 230 kV transmission lines, 18 miles of 500 kV transmission lines, 381 miles of access roads, 47 miles of temporary crane walk paths, a battery energy storage system, three operations and maintenance facilities, five permanent met towers, and construction-related staging yards.

The Lava Ridge project proposal was submitted in August 2022 with an Environmental Impact Study (EIS) conducted in 2023. As the proposal gained headway, it also gained significant resistance and opposition.

Protests against the wind farm come from local Idahoans, hunters and recreationalists, farmers and ranchers, WWII special interests groups and even Idaho’s governing leaders.

Concerns raised include the loss

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

Baylee Anna Hoff

October 29, 1993 – July 10, 2024

Baylee Anna Hoff, born October 29, 1993, sadly passed away July 10, 2024, at the LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. Baylee was born in Ellensburg, Washington, to James and Gina (Burgin) Hoff. Baylee’s love for life and adventure started at a young age. She loved spending time with her Grandpa Roger and Grandma Linda at Indian Springs Thoroughbred Farm, in Ellensburg, traveling to Ketchikan, Alaska to spend time with her Grandma Harriet and late Grandpa Greg, and to Soda Springs, Idaho for visits with her Grandma Paula and late Grandpa Robert (Papa), as well as other family members in the area. She attended Ellensburg and Soda Springs High and later received her GED. With her GED, Baylee enrolled in the Welding Program at Idaho State University. Baylee received her Welding Certification in 2019 and had a great love for welding, which she found through her cousin John Tarbet. Baylee had a great love of spending time with her children, family, and friends, of which she had many. She enjoyed her time in the outdoors golfing, hunting, swimming, gardening, and taking care of her yard. Her greatest love was being outdoors with her children Arianna, Jameson, Harper, and family and friends. Baylee is survived by her children Arianna Hoff, Jameson Dye, Harper Dye, parents James and Gina Hoff of Ellensburg, Washington, sister Paige and her husband K.C. Searle of Soda Springs, brother JamesPaul (JP) Hoff of Soda Springs, grandparents, Paula Burgin of Soda Springs, Harriett Zerbetz and Roy Carlson of Mason, Washington, and Roger and Linda Hoff of Union,

Washington, aunts and uncles Nathan and Laura Hoff of Bellevue, Washington, Tina Ingraham of Lacy, Washington, Alicia Burgin Price of Soda Springs, and Robert Burgin of Palm Springs, California, and niece and nephew Jackson Cole and Charlotte (Charlie) Searle, along with other various numerous family members.

Preceded in death by two grandfathers, Robert Burgin and Greg Zerbetz, and her cousin the late John Howard Tarbet. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Soda Springs Presbyterian Church, August 3, 2024, at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, a Go Fund Me Account and a PayPal Account have been set up and the links are below. If there are other means of donation you would prefer, please reach out and let us know.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/inmemory-of-baylee-anna-hoff https://www.paypal.com/ pools/c/123238546057846715

Shelly Williams Advertising

Phone: 208-766-4773 shelly.w@thecityjournals.com www.cariboucountynews.com

of use of the lands for multiple uses, for which public lands are intended for. As the turbines, access roads, substations, power lines, storage systems, maintenance facilities and the like are being constructed, access to the land will be limited, if granted at all. Even once the wind farm became operational, there would still be significantly less grazing acreage and access. Hunters and even Native American residents point out that the change of use of the land would largely impact the wildlife of the area, likely ruining its use for hunting and other recreational uses.

Local residents living near the proposed site have raised their own concerns about the impact of constructing the site. Their worries vary from the necessary blasting for tower bases and roadways to the water impact it will have in the current water use climate. In addition, the locals are frustrated that while they have to live with the daily impact of the wind farm, the energy produced will be used out of state in California and Nevada.

Friends of Minidoka, a nonprofit organization based in Jerome, strongly opposes the wind farm as the plans would place turbines just two miles from Minidoka Historic Site. The Minidoka Historic Site, a former concentration camp for Japanese Americans during WWII, was created to provide education of the forced removal and incarceration experience of Japanese Americans.

Hearing the concerns of the people, and having concerns of their own, Idaho’s government officials joined the conversation. In a joint letter, Governor Brad Little, Lt. Governor Scott Bedke, U.S. Senator Mike Crapo, U.S. Senator Jim Risch and Congressman Mike Simpson spoke out against the project. They said, “Affected farmers, ranchers, tribes, the Japanese American com -

munity and sportsmen have voiced legitimate objections. As it stands today, the local community predominantly has not shown support for this development.”

The letter also voiced the conflicts with “deep-rooted” Idaho values for land conservation and land use opportunities for recreation, grazing and sporting activities. Additionally they pointed out concerns for the habitat and aerial fire suppression efforts, considering the height of the turbines in an area prone to wildfire.

A final EIS was conducted with alternative proposals and recommendations, which was published June 6, 2024. The new proposed plan would reduce the acreage to 104,000 acres of land, consisting of 241 turbines with a maximum height of 660 feet with a reduced electrical output by 38-42%.

The size reduction could be considered a compromise, but Idahos were determined to prevent the project completely. To that end, Congressman Simpson used his position as the Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee to put language in the Interior Appropriations Bill (FY25 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act) that would specifically block funding to be used for the Lava Ridge Wind Project.

With a pass of 29 to 25 votes in favor, the bill will next go to the full floor of the House of Representatives for a vote. Making it out of committee is a monumental step for the bill and Idahoans, the bill must still pass in the House as well as in the Senate before President Biden will sign it into law. However, the progress made is surely worth celebrating for Idahoans that have been working tirelessly to keep Idaho the way they know and love it.

John Chandler Slane II

Baylee Anna Hoff

Caribou County Commission

The Caribou County Board of Commissioners met for a regular meeting on July 22.

Kevin McClain—RB

McClain updated the commissioners on the summer road work currently in progress. Gravelling is underway in a number of areas, and projects were reported to be on schedule at present. Gravel is being stockpiled for use in more remote areas, which will save the time involved in transporting the material for crushing. AC issues were reported at th county shop. MClain suggested that they would be looking into the cost of AC repairs.

Commissioner Somsen inquired about the Whip-around system (which is used for the management of equipment and inspections). Clerk Stoor raised the issue of per diem for the use of cellphones on the part of employees, which might be required under the terms of the phone contract.

Somsen asked McClain to clarify with other counties how they handle the cellphone issue. Stoor conveyed congratulations from Simplot for the work on the Conda road by the department. The Simplot crew had expressed their appreciation directly to Stoor.

The Commissioners also expressed gratitude to McClain for the department’s work.

Sheriff Mabey

The Sheriff spoke to the commissioners and provided an update. He addressed the concerns that Rocky Mountain Power had expressed about Alexander reservoir. A recent accident in Bear Lake makes the issue of water safety especially timely. The sheriff reported that wakes from powered vehicles did present something of a hazard on Alexander Reservoir.

The sheriff will continue to observe the situation and make reports, as well as monitor the operation of boats on the reservoir. The regulations are set by the county, as modifications of state code regarding how close to the shore wake boats can be within the county’s waterways. It was reported that even slow moving wake boats can create potentially dangerous waves if they are close to shore. The sheriff reported that Dike Lake has “share the lake, watch the wake” policies in place, and has been doing a good job patrolling itself.

The upcoming parades were discussed, and plans were in place for maintaining safety for the Fair parade in Grace and the 24th parade in Bancroft.

The sheriff’s office was reported to be adequately staffed. Code enforcement regarding watering roadways was discussed. Chairman Mathews suggested that warnings should be given out for complaints that are received, and citations when needed. The issue is covered by both the county and state codes, and violations can be pursued under either.

The sheriff reported that the state has determined that the county needs to follow the state code regarding abandoned vehicles, which requires three different organizations to deal with them before they can be disposed of. The sheriff is working with

Representative Wheeler to streamline the process.

The sheriff is still interested in making the animal ordinance more specific and stringent in order to allow the county to deal with abandoned animals. The sheriff would like to change the ordinance to allow for citations in the case of dogs who injure or kill livestock, which would include a mechanism for restitution.

The sheriff reported that the Search and Rescue building is in need of repair. He would like the commission to keep repairs to the building in mind for the upcoming budget cycles.

OSHA is in the process of changing rules regarding training for issues such as technical rescue (using ropes and other equipment), as well as ATV and Snowmobile use to require OSHA training in order to operate the equipment. The sheriff suggested that those changes would severely impact services that use citizen and volunteer aid. Costs to account for the training were predicted to be significant.

Tracy Hebdon—SEICAA

Hebdon is a Data Analyst with the organization. SEICAA is required to put out a community needs survey on a three year cycle. The survey explores economic conditions and needs for the community served by the organization. The survey also requires an informal information session with county officials to discuss poverty remediation plans. The assessment is anonymous, and is used to gather information about basic demographic issues.

Hebdon asked the commissioners what the driving factors of poverty in the area were. Jill Stoor mentioned the costs of housing, and Commissioner Somsen added that inflation had also affected the price of food as well. Hebdon stated that housing was a common factor in all the areas they covered. She then asked what potentially might be done to combat the issue. The addition of more affordable housing was suggested.

The vulnerability of elderly residents with regard to current inflation was discussed. The isolation resulting from disability was also mentioned as a factor in the situation of poverty. The lack of resources related to mental health services was also raised.

Asked what the biggest change in the community over the last three years was, the commission noted the increase in new people moving into the county, which puts a strain on housing and other resources. Stoor noted an increase in drug cases in the county, which may have correlation to the poverty issue, as an additional stressor on county services such as law enforcement and courts.

Chairman Mathews mentioned that there were many good-paying jobs in Caribou County for people who were willing to work.

IDAWY

Jayson Lower from IDAWY spoke to the commissioners about fee schedules. Tipping fees were discussed in relation to the Bonneville area, but no action was announced or decided upon on the part of the coun-

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ty. A resolution regarding the fee schedule for Grays Lake and Wayan will be worked on. Once the details are worked out they will be published and noticed. Lower explained that the landfill in Caribou County is not closing, despite what he suggested were rumors that had been going around. The transfer station is nearly complete.

The board has been successful at selling metal, and will present a check to the county from some of the proceeds. Lower reported that IDAY is doing well.

Rick Phillips/Andrea Gumm— Simplot

Rick Phillips representing JR Simplot spoke to the commission. He expressed thanks to the commission and introduced Andrea Gumm as the new Public Relations manager. Andrea graduated from SSHS, and she and her family have been residents of the county and worked in a number of capacities before taking this job. She expressed her enthusiasm for the position. Gumm will be replacing Phillips as the liaison with Simplot for the county. Gumm has been with Simplot since June.

Dan Darlington also spoke to the commission. “If someone’s up to the task, I know Andrea is.” The pipeline project was reported to be on schedule, including reclamation of the roads. The roads will be closed until the middle of August, but opened up again for hunting season.

Senior Citizen Vehicle—Lucetta Holt

Holt reported on the status of the senior center. The center was recently flooded as a result of a water supply which broke and was not noticed for several days. The center has contacted a restoration company to work on saving as much of the infrastructure as possible. It will be at least 4-6 weeks until the dining area is ready for use again, though take out and meals on wheels will continue as normal. Events like cards will still be held.

A 2006 Dodge Caravan has been offered for donation by Can Do Auto for use delivering Meals on Wheels. Holt asked the commissioners what the best way forward as far as potentially accepting the vehicle would be,

with regard to insurance, etc. Right now, meals to Grace are delivered by center employees in their own vehicles. It was presumed that donating the vehicle to the county, which could then authorize it for use by the center, was the easiest way to facilitate the operation.

Holt asked about how budgeting for the water/sewer hookup would be paid for in conjunction with Main Street construction. The commission believed that those expenses should be covered by a grant which is currently in the process of being evaluated. If the grant does not cover the expenses, the county will pay it.

Jill Stoor

Clerk Stoor spoke to the commissioners about a number of issues.

The Extension office is replacing sewing machines which have been deemed too old for their current needs. Lisa Barfuss at the office wanted to clarify whether the surplus items needed to be handled in a particular way. The commissioners will talk to Doug Wood about the issue.

The commissioners reiterated that they would like to hear from Judge Brower a few times a year by way of a report and update from the court.

Stoor has had reports that alcohol was being sold at the Oregon Trail Country Club, which does not currently have a liquor license. The license expired in 2022. Paperwork has been filled out and fees paid by the owner. The license was approved by the commissioners for 2024-2025.

Casey Batterton spoke to the clerk about office space. Several options were discussed.

Pioneer Day parade is scheduled for Wednesday in Bancroft.

The Main Street project was reported to have been “an adventure” so fair in terms of parking and logistics. The specifics of what is allowed on the street in terms of parking has caused some confusion. Stoor suggested that county employees could park in areas around the block, but leave the front of the building free for parallel parking in order to accommodate the public and the court.

The commissioners met in executive session to discuss personnel issues, and then adjourned for a regular inspection of the jail facilities.

Bancroft Pioneer Days

This year’s Grand Marshal is Craig Wilker

Craig was born in Soda Springs, Idaho and raised on the family ranch in Thatcher. He Graduated from Grace HIgh School before he attended Weber State College on a football scholarship. Craig graduated with a teaching degree. He taught school in Snake River for four years and then another 30 years at Grace HIgh School. Today Craig and his wife Janice are still involved in raising cattle on the family ranch.

Craig enjoys working and competing in livestock events with his daughter, Autumn, and granddaughter, SIerra Sears. He remembers attending the Bancroft Pioneer Day Rodeo when he was a small boy with his grandparents. Later, he became a participant in the rodeo team roping for many years. He and LaMar Viso won the team roping one year. Craig is good friends and acquaintances with many people and contestants from Bancroft. He donated sand for the arena which was very much appreciated. He is proud and humbled to be part of this great tradition of the 24th of July celebration If you see them make sure to say hi!

Pioneer Day royalty for 2024!

Queen SOPHIA ODELL Queen Attendant HARLEE COLLINGS

Jr. Queen VIVIENNE OWENS Jr. Queen Attendant BETHANY STODDARD

Princess MAURIN STODDARD

Princess Attendant BAYLEE COLLINGS.

Special thanks to our sponsors Highland Milling LLC, and Cold Creek Hats.

Pioneer Day Royalty

Grand Marshal Craig Wilker with his wife Janice.

7/24

7/30

Jody Reeves

With a Presidential election looming and the Olympic Games set to begin this weekend many are feeling a sense of patriotism. These events are historic but for many they will never feel national pride in the same way as when they attend the rodeo at the Caribou County Fair. When that announcer says a cowboy’s prayer and you see the stars and stripes carried into the rodeo arena on horseback accompanied by the national anthem the feelings of national pride will win over even the harshest critics. Rodeo not only honors the current men, women, and animals who participated in the sport but gives a nod to the history of the American West. All of this will be on display August 6th and 7th at the fairgrounds in Grace. For the first time in nearly a decade

tunities for residents to stay within the county and still be able to enjoy a professional sporting event. The PRCA or Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association is headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado and is the oldest rodeo sanctioning body in the world. The PRCA has an annual attendance of 40 million people across the United States. With several stock contractors from all areas of the country the PRCA has the toughest standards in the industry when it comes to the care and treatment of livestock. This year's stock contractor for the Caribou County Fair is Powder River Rodeo LLC. Hank and Lori Franzen have owned and operated the Powder River Rodeo since 1986 from their home base of Riverton Wyoming. Powder River Rodeo has been nominated several times for stock contractor of the year

expressed their excitement to return to one of their favorite small town rodeos, the Caribou County Fair. In addition to high level rodeo stock, hosting a PRCA rodeo brings in a high level of competitors. Cowboys and cowgirls that are looking to collect big checks and earn points towards qualifying for the National Finals Rodeo seek out PRCA rodeos across the nation. This fact played a big role in our local fair board's decision to change the rodeo dates for the Caribou County Fair this year. Traditionally, the Caribou County rodeo is held on Thursday and Friday nights of the fair. This year however the rodeo nights will be on Tuesday and Wednesday of the fair. With several of the large rodeos in our area taking place on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays it is the hope of the fair board that many of the top cowboys and cowgirls will use the Caribou County rodeo as a stopping point between

Besides timing, the fairboard also had to take into consideration the cost and effort it would take to bring in a PRCA rodeo versus an amateur rodeo. One of the ways the fairboard was able to combat the increased costs of bringing in a pro rodeo was thanks to the county commissioners and the businesses in the county increasing their donations to the fair. The fairboard would like to thank these individuals and would encourage citizens to support those businesses that have donated to the fair.

Don’t miss out on your chance to see a group of professional athletes at the top of their game. Perhaps Garth Brooks says it best in one of his award winning songs, “Well it's the bulls and the blood, it's the dust and the mud….., its boots and chaps, its cowboy hats….., it's the ropes and the reins, and the joy and the pain and they call the thing rodeo.”

Fun Facts about the 2024 Paris Olympics

The 2024 Paris Olympic Games are just days away from their opening ceremonies. To kick off the worldwide sporting event of today's greatest athletes, here are a few fun facts you should know about this years’ games.

The Olympic Games Paris 2024 take place exactly 100 years since Paris hosted the Olympics back in 1924. The 1924 games included only 126 events across 17 sports and 23 disciplines, with over 3,000 athletes from 44 countries competing. Today, 10,500 athletes representing teams from 206 countries will compete in 329 events across 32 sports.

The Olympic Torch began its path to the games on April 16, 2024 in Olympia, Greece, where the ancient Olympics were once held. The torch then made its way to Athens where it was taken across the Mediterranean Sea to France’s shore in Marseille. Beginning May 8, the Olympic flame began a journey traveling across the country, paying tribute to “the memory of the people who marked France’s history, honor the country’s natural heritage, showcase France’s ancestral creativity and know-how and demonstrate the vitality of local sports and athletics.”

The Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony will not be held in a stadium for the first time ever. Instead the historic event will take place on the Seine, the river that crosses the center of Paris. Rather than athletes marching along a track as typically seen in years past, guests and those

watching from home will see a colorful river parade through the French capital city. The teams will begin at the Austerlitz Bridge and then will continue west along the Seine, passing under historic bridges and by iconic landmarks, such as the Notre-Dame, the Louvre, as well as some Games venues, including the Esplanade des Invalides and the Grand Palais.

The 2024 Olympics will be the first in history to have an equal number of men and women competing, 5, 250 men and 5, 250 women, participating in the same number of sports and events. The sport with the most medals being awarded at Paris 2024 will be aquatics with 49 events across the disciplines of

swimming, marathon swimming, diving, water polo, and artistic swimming. Athletics follows closely with 48.

There will be one new sport for the Paris 2024 edition of the Olympics: Breaking. Competition in the dance sport will comprise two events – one for men and one for women – where 16 B-Boys and 16 B-Girls will go face to face in solo battles. In canoe, there will be a new event introduced at Paris 2024: Extreme slalom. Four athletes tip off a ramp at the same time and whoever gets to the bottom of the course first is the winner.

There will be a total of 35 Olympic venues at Paris 2024, with fourteen sites hosting 24 Olympic sports located within 10km of the Olympic Village. Some Olympic events will happen in iconic places of Paris including beach volleyball held at the Champ de Mars (under the Eiffel Tower), urban sports held at La Concorde, fencing and taekwondo at the Grand Palais, and the start of the Marathon at the Hotel de Ville.

For the first time ever, the 2024 Games will also take place in the French territory of Tahiti, where the surfing competition will be held on the Pacific island’s legendary Teahupoo wave, located about 15,000 km from Paris. The surfing venue will break the record for the furthest medal competition staged outside a host Olympic city.

The River Seine will host the marathon swimming event and the swimming leg of the triathlon at the Olympics, a century after it held some events

during the first Paris Games in 1900. From 1923 until recently, swimming had been banned in the Seine due to water-quality issues, and for decades, the river was too toxic for most fish. Paris organizers have repeatedly assured the competitors that the water will be clean enough to swim during the Olympics.

For the very first time in the history of the Summer Olympic Games, the Opening Ceremony will not be held in a stadium. Instead, Paris will launch the festivities with a boat parade down the Seine on July 26th. Floating through the heart of Paris, the athletes, coaches, leaders and staff will make their way from the Austerlitz Bridge, near the Jardin des Plantes, and finish at the Iéna Bridge in front of the Eiffel Tower at Trocadéro.

The official mascot chosen for the Paris Olympics is, surprisingly, a hat. Representing freedom and highlighting important historical figures of the French Republic, the official mascot is the Olympic Phryge, pronounced “freege,” a traditional hat that was once worn by French revolutionaries.

Not only will medalling athletes be taking home a piece of the Olympics with them, but also a piece of Paris. This year’s Olympic medals include the most iconic part of Paris- iron from the original Eiffel Tower infused within each medal. The pieces of iron were cut from parts of the tower that were saved from renovations over the years.

Information taken from https://olympics.com/en/paris-2024.

The PRCA Rodeo will be returning to the Caribou County Fair after nearly a decade.

PRCA brings in a high level of competition, as well as stock.

The Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association is headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO.

This year's rodeo nights at the fair will be Tuesday and Wednesday.