The Idaho Enterprise/Caribou County | August 8, 2024
Caribou County Fair Week underway
Monday dawned bright and sunny for the beginning of this year’s Caribou County Fair, which started at 8:00 a.m. with the Horse Show. Throughout the rest of the day, Grace experienced a pretty wide range of weather phenomena, from blistering heat to high winds to a threatened rain storm, which resulted in moisture but no cancellations.
During most of the last week, the forecast suggested that Southeast Idaho would be seeing highs bordering right near 100.As a result of changes to the weather system in the western U.S., the predictions for weather this week are on balance a lot kinder in terms of heat. However, there is a high chance of wind throughout the week, and an increased possibility of precipitation.
As with most years, event speeds will pick up as the week rolls along, culminating with the market sale and Rodeo events and ATV/Monster Truck events toward the end of the week.
Showmanship and Quality events will be held for Beef, Sheep, and Poultry on Thursday, with the Swine competitions having taken place on Wednesday. The Market Sale will take place on Friday starting at 10:00 a.m. at the Show Barn.
Throughout the week, the big top will feature hypnotism and other attractions.
The Caribou 5K will take place on Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m. Contact Jeremy Smith at racingthefair@gmail.com for more information or to register.
Exhibit buildings will remain open during for the duration of the fair beginning Thursday, so come and take a look at what your fellow county residents have gotten up to in the wide variety of categories on display and see who will end up with Grand Champion ribbon.
Vendors and activities will be open during the week, including all kinds of food, a raffle from the Grace American Legion Post 50, a mechanical bull, clothes, jewelry, treats, and a lot more.
As out post time for the paper means that we only know what happened for sure on Monday so far, we bring you so pictures of Monday’s events, and will present a full rundown of the fair next week after it has finished.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Idaho
prosecutor seeking death penalty for escaped prisoner
According to Alex Brizee of East Idaho News, Skylar Meade, 32, was sentenced to at least 35 years because of an ambush that allowed him to escape while receiving treatment at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise. Meade, who was already serving a minimum of 10 years at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution, could face the death penalty for his alleged role in a homicide. On Friday, the Nez Perce County Prosecutor’s Office announced its intent to seek the death penalty against Skylar Meade, who has been charged with first-degree murder in the killing of an 83-yearold man. The officers announced that Meade and Umphenour were suspects in a pair of killings. According to Idaho State Police, the men encountered James Mauney in Juliaetta, north of Lewiston, while Mauney was out walking his dogs. His body was later found in a desolate area. The same day in Clearwater County deputies found the body of 72-year-old Gerald “Don” Henderson in his Cabin outside of Orofino. The police said that shackles that belonged to Meade and Mauney’s dogs were found in the cabin.
Haystack fire in Fremont County
Firefighters are working hard to battle a haystack fire near the St. Anthony Sand Dunes. According to Fremont County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Bart Quayle, the fire started around 1:00 p.m. Sunday on Salem Road near 600 North and 1900 East. So far it is not clear how the fire started. There have been no injuries and it is not threatening any homes or people in the area. Witnesses say there were 9 fire trucks on scene and the South Fremont Fire District is working to put the fire out.
RFK JR. placed a dead bear in Central Park
10 years ago
According to reports, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said on Sunday that 10 years ago he drove a dead bear cub from upstate New York and placed the carcass in New York City’s Central Park. Kennedy told actress Rosanne Barr about him traveling through Hudson Valley when he came across a “young bear” that had been hit and killed. He said, “I pulled over and I picked up the bear and put him in the back of my van because I was gonna skin the bear… It was in very good condition and I was gonna put the meat in my refrigerator.” Kennedy said after he went back to the city he went to dinner with the bear still in his car. After dinner, he said he had to go to the airport and couldn’t take the bear back to his house. He then brought up the idea to friends to take the bear to Central Park and make it appear that a biker had hit it. He said laughing in a video, “I had an old bike in my car that somebody had asked me to get rid of and I said, ‘Let’s go put the bear in Central Park and we’ll make it look like he got hit by a bike.’” Kennedy then said, “Everybody thought, ‘That’s a great idea.’ So we did that and we thought it would be amusing for whoever found it or something.”
Team Roping was one of the earliest events of the Fair, starting on Monday.
Cy Lusk, Waylon Lusk, Kase Thompson, and Hal Lusk stand with Thompson's mechanical bull, which will be open during the Fair.
4-H started the week of Fair with dinner and activities.
Monday saw almost every weather you can imagine. At least it didn't snow!
Horse competitions were part of the first day's events. Results will be printed next week when they are available.
4-H and the Extension Office are busy preparing for a long week.
Randy Robbins and Larry Wendt of the American Legion Post 50 will be on hand to raffle items during the fair.
Helen Ridge celebrates an amazing hundred years
According to news Helen Rae Larsen Ridge recently saw, only around two percent of people who have ever lived make it to the century mark of 100 years on this planet. As a new member of that exclusive club, you can imagine that she gets questions about how she got there all the time. Rather than a singular answer, Helen has a number of wise pieces of advice for those who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
One piece of advice she has is to stay busy, to keep active. She singled out Activities Director Cindy Henderson at the Heritage Senior Living facility as someone who helps put that philosophy into practice.
“You just don’t ever stop, do you?” Cindy asks Helen as we talked in her room.
Helen laughs. “Neither do you!” she says.
Last week, the Center hosted an open house for Helen to give her a chance to meet with members of the community, and give them a chance to meet her should they take the opportunity. Those who did were richly rewarded with a vibrant, sharp, and amazing person whose humor and good nature are infectious.
In addition to the community event, Helen’s family also held a special family birthday party for her, where she was able to spend time with many relatives, many of whom are still in the area.
Born in Paris, Idaho in 1924, Helen has a special affinity for this year’s Paris, Olympics. More than just the name connection, Helen spent time in France earlier in her life as a chaperone to touring students. She visited a number of places in the Paris, and has great memories of that trip. She also visited London, where her father was born. Upon touring the address he had lived in, she discovered that the houses on either side still stood, but her father’s was gone. She later found out that it had been destroyed in the London Blitz during World War II. “You never know what’s going to happen,” she says.
The same principle applied when she and her family moved to the Soda Springs area in 1965 from Montpelier. At the time, it was a very hard decision as her children did not want to move, especially a son who was on the basketball team at the time. Eventually, the children found their footing, became parts of the community, married people they met here, and came to love the town. Her son
even played on a Soda Springs team that won the state championship. “That made me feel a lot better about moving!” Helen laughs. “But it was the right thing. Things happen for a reason.”
Her faith is central to how she thinks about the world around her and her life.
“Someone sent me a letter congratulating me for my hundred years, and the letter said, ‘I’m sure some of the days have been happy, and other days have been sad,’ and I think that just hit the nail on the head. Life has a lot of sadness and happiness. But in my opinion—and you can disagree with me on this—I think that’s what the Lord wants us to be, happy.”
Throughout her life, Helen has followed the path that she felt she needed to in order to be the best person she could. “I followed the laws of God and man,” she says, and it certainly seems to have paid off.
Another suggestion Helen has for longevity is to take an active interest in the world around you, and continue to learn. “My second husband once said ‘when I get to the other side, I want to know everything.’ He was always interested in knowing as much as possible, and I think that’s a good goal to have,” she says.
Helen continues her strong reading habits, and is very well-versed in many areas. While she herself doesn’t play an instrument, she has a deep love for musicianship, which she attributes to her father’s guitar playing. She is still undecided about whether to pursue the piano, but potentially might, she implies, when she finds the right instructor and piano.
“I’m fortunate to be one hundred and I’m even more fortunate that I can still think clearly. I know that isn’t always the case for everyone, so I’m very grateful.” Despite being slightly hard of hearing, Helen is in amazing health for anyone, let alone a member of the triple digit club. She is also sharp as a tack, sketching out a quick sentence in shorthand, which she learned decades ago, in order to illustrate a point.
Soda Springs is lucky to have such a venerable presence in town, and the Enterprise hopes that her next birthday is an even bigger celebration. In any case, we know that she is capable of doing whatever she sets her mind to. As she says, “You’ve got to be thinking of something all the time that you want to do, and if it’s a good thing, why—you should do it.”
A banner outside Heritage Senior Living announces Helen's triple digit birthday.
Helen with Jirzey Carpenter (left) and Jayden Kuta (right).
Queen for a day, Helen's actual birthday was Sunday, August 4.
Members of Helen's family visited with her at Heritage.
Activities Director Cindy Henderson and Helen take a quick break to pose for a picture.
Trading Post nearing re-opening
The Trading Post building on Main Street in Bancroft is in the perfect spot to serve as a meeting spot, diner, game center, and all-around gathering place for the town. That’s what Mike Ackerman has envisioned for the building, which he purchased in 2021, and what he feels he is near to achieving.
“The building on Main Street has been many things over the past 70+ years. Automotive repair, furniture store, grocery store, deli among other things,” Ackerman says. “Many in Bancroft lastly remember that they could come and get a burger / fries or sandwich or pump gas and get groceries last when the Mickelson's owned the building. I purchased the building from the Mickelson's in 2021 with the intention of creating a public gathering place for the town.”
As Mike explains, Toolson's original milkshake parlor has been relocated from the condemned corner building to the Trading Post. “Toolson's was originally opened in 1910 and was always the cornerstone of Bancroft. It was utmost importance to obtain and recondition the cabinetry, counters, barstools and relocate to keep Toolson's legacy going.”
The restoration process has been long and thorough. As he has a fulltime job elsewhere to attend to, the progress has been at the pace that allows for. According to Ackerman, “A few interior walls and the exterior walls/roof are the only things that have not been reconstructed or modified. Major work has been completed on the floors including total replacement in areas because of rotted wood. Everything that has been completed has be 95% completed by myself. The restoration is about 200%+ of the initial cost budgeted originally. The restrooms, kitchen and ultimately
grocery store are yet to be completed.”
Call it a labor of love or a astute business venture, but the future Mike sees for the building is inspiring in its vision of a consolidated town hub. “The Trading Post will be a gathering place for the community for food, games and social interaction. We have the school, church and bar but we have no common-place for all to interact. We plan on providing food at a reasonable price so individuals and families can come to eat without thinking twice about the cost. We plan on having family style dinners Monday-Friday so a family of 4 can eat out for about $30. Items will be available for the school age kids at a very reasonable price also. The game-room is a necessity for the teens and families to come and spend time in a family friendly environment. We understand that weekdays will be mostly catering to the locals but on the weekends we plan on Bancroft turning into a destination for food and entertainment,” he says.
While the project is Mike’s vision and largely his effort, some of the additional work has been done by Mike Coburn and his crew in Grace at Coburn Custom (208.281.6324).
Asked what the community can do to support the project (many attendees of Prioneer Day asked throughout the day when the place would be permanently open and how they could help), Ackerman says, “The biggest support would be to just stop by and visit, eat or come in to play pool or games. We will always accept donations of time or labor. I currently have an investor and am looking for others to invest in Bancroft Trading Post and Bancroft. I have plans for Bancroft and anyone interested in investing in Bancroft's future needs to contact myself.”
While Mike wasn’t born in Bancroft, he went to high school in town starting in 1978, so he’s certainly not a “newcomer.” As he explains, “I moved to Bancroft in 1978 as a sophomore in high school. My schoolmates had an enjoyable time during high school. Growing up in a small town may have its limitations but it definitely also has advantages. In Scottsdale, AZ, my children had some difficulty making the sports teams unless they had experience with club teams. In a small town, everyone has the opportunity to be involved as much as they desire in all aspects of school.”
Some exciting news is that the ice cream parlor, game room and dining room are planned to be open in the latter part of August 2024. The rest of the schedule will follow: “The
kitchen will be completed this fall/ winter and then we will be open fulltime everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 6am-9pm or later. Because we are trying to make Bancroft Trading Post a destination, when we are fully open we need to be open 7-days/week so if someone makes the effort to come to Bancroft we can accommodate.”
For those who live in or spend a lot of time in Bancroft, the return of a central location for meeting up with friends, playing some pool, eating great food and grabbing dessert sounds perfect. For those who don’t spend much time in town, the Trading Post will offer a good reason to do so. We’ll keep you posted for new developments as the project gets closer to finished.
Golden Rod #64 to celebrate 100 Years August 10
The public is invited to a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Golden Rod Chapter #64 of the Eastern Star in Soda Springs. The schedule of events will feature an informational school of instruction for members, conducted by Worthy Grand Matron elect Diedre Votaw, accompanied by Worthy Grand Patron elect Will Votaw. A luncheon and then a formal visit and proceedings will be taken by the esteemed guests. A public celebration will begin at 4:00 p.m., with a birthday cake and a presentation from Sister Karen Juell, Past Grand Matron of Idaho. Everyone in the community who would like to know more about the organization or what their fellow citizens are up to by way of charitable service is invited to attend.
The event will be hosted by Worthy Matron Robbie Lemarr PGM, and Worthy Patron Gary Lemarr PGP. Gary and Robbie Lemarr have been members of the Soda Springs community for over forty years, and have been involved in a large variety of activities over their time here and with the Eastern Star organization. Eastern Star is associated with the Masons, and the related group of charitable/fraternal organizations that contribute to public and civic life as well as charitable causes, such as the Shriners and Jobs Daughters.
The Eastern Star has a long history in Soda Springs and Eastern Idaho, and old newspaper accounts of the meetings held by the organization are fun to
read through for both the range of topics and style in which they are related.
Unlike the Masons, which is manifestly a fraternal order, the Eastern Star (which is separate from but connected to the Masons) is “a fun thing that we can do together. We welcome men and women,” says Robbie Lemarr. Robbie served as the Worthy Grand Matron in 2022-2023, and Gary as the Worthy Grand Patron in 2012-2013. The two have had a lot of amazing experiences in their time with the organization, and have been around the country at Eastern Star Events. They have also met people from all over the country in their various capacities with the ES. They have also found an organization that they say feels family.
“We’ve been in a lot of places, and members have treated us really well everywhere,” Gary says, discussing a trip to New York where he met many representatives from other states and counties. “They have treated us like royalty wherever we go,” Robbie says.
“That’s one thing that’s great about it. Everyone is just amazing.”
Like other service organizations, the Eastern Star is busy in the community and region, raising funds for scholarships and other worthy causes. As a national organization, Eastern Star is most often associated with the cause of Service Dogs, which are a need in many communities across southern Idaho. The Worthy Grand Matron selects the project for the year, and many
Join the party at 25 E 1st
For more information, call
at 208-540-0200.
Mike Ackerman meets with once and future customers at the Pioneer Day open house for the Trading Post.
Like the inside of the building, the exterior has also seen a serious facelift.
Once complete, the Trading Post will serve food, drinks, desserts, games, and a great atmosphere for meeting up in Bancroft.
equally worthy causes have been taken up in the past—Make A Wish, CASA, the Connie Squires Memorial Scholarship (which is given every year), and many others.
South in
downtown Soda Springs to learn more about the Eastern Star, or just congratulate them on their century of service.
Robbie
Gary and Robbie Lemarr will host the Golden Rod #64 100 year celebration on August 10.
OBITUARY
John Peterson
June 6, 1942 – July 21, 2024
John Peterson passed away on July 21, 2024. He was born in Montpelier, Idaho on June 6, 1942, the son of Roland and Rosemary Peterson.
The family moved to Conda, Idaho, and later Soda Springs, Idaho. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force for a brief period.
John was an ambitious young man who could always find a way to earn money for the things he wanted. He purchased his first car with the money he had earned from washing dishes at the local cafe.
Perhaps it was there that he formed his interest in the Cafe business.
He went to work at the Idaho Cafe in Soda Springs and eventually became the head cook and owner. He later became manager and cook at the Trail Cafe in Soda Springs.
After several years in the cafe business, he decided to go to work at the Phosphate Plants in Soda Springs. He worked at Monsato, Beker Industries, and Kerr McGee. After he retired, he spent many years working summers for the Lava Foundation in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho as a ground's keeper. He loved this job and the people he worked with.
On March 6, 1999, John married "his wildflower" Marty Ward in Jackpot, Nevada. They happily spent the remainder of their years together taking care of each other and their little home in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho.
John is predeceased by his mother and father, his oldest brother Roland James Peterson, his daughter Pamela Hanner, sister-in-law Ramona Peterson, and by Marty's son Clint Ward and step daughter-in-law Tiffnee (Cory) Ward. Let us not forget
ESTATE SALE
Bancroft, Idaho
350 S. 1st W.
(Behind school across from playground)
Friday August 9 th & Saturday August 10 th 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
½ Price Sunday August 11 th
12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
his adorable and much loved "furry" kids Shelley, Dolly and Rowdy.
He is survived by his wife Marty, sister JoAnn Cron, brother Jerry Peterson, grandson Travis (Amy) Rossen, son's-in-law Michael (Michelle) Ward, Cory Ward, cousins Dixie (Richard) Miller and Ron and (Randi) Mullins, as well as many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.
MISS ME, BUT LET ME GO .... When I come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for me, I want no rites in a gloom filled room. Why cry for a sole set free? Miss me a little, but not for too long. And not with your head bowed low. Remember the love that we once shared. Miss me but let me go. For this is a journey that we all must take, and each must go alone. It's all a part of the "Master Plan"; a step on the road to home. And when you are lonely and sick of heart, go to the friends we know and bury your sorrows in doing good deeds. Miss me but let me go.....
There will be no services at this time. The family will have a private service at a later date.
Upcoming Library Events and Registration Schedule
The schedule for a number of fun and exciting clubs has been released by the library. The clubs offer a chance for groups of readers to share time and experiences with other likeminded cohorts, and provide motivation for out of school reading. The list also includes Lego clubs for STEM activity.
Page Turners (6th Grade and Up)
Meetings will be the 1st Wednesday of the Month at 6:00 p.m. September 4 will be the Kick-Off Party. October 2’s book will be The Fourth Stall. November 6 will be Unbroken. December 4 will be Christmas Short Stories. February 5 will discuss The False Prince; March 5 Life Skills For Teens; April 2 Ender’s Game, and May 7, Candy Shop Wars.
Music and Movement (No registration required)
Tuesdays at 11:30; Story Time on Wednesdays at 10:30 or Noon. These programs are for children ages birth to 6 years old. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Programming runs from September to May, with a few breaks for Holidays. Each sessions last about an hour and NO registration required!
Books for Boys (2nd Grade and Up)
All meetings begin Promptly at 7:00 p.m.. September 18, the Chocolate Touch; October 16, Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark; November 26, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever; January 15, Where the Red Fern Grows; Feburary 19, Inventors of Lego; March 26, History Comics, Challenger; April 16, Mouse and the Motorcycle; May 21, Who was Milton Hershey?
Mother/Daughter Book Club
September 11, The Hundred
Dresses; October 9, Bunnicula; November 13, Amelia Bedilia Christmas; January 8, Little House in the Big Woods; February 12, Florence Nightingale Graphic Novel; March 12, Mouse and the Motorcycle; April 9, Harriett the Spy; May 14, Pie.
Lego League (Teens and Tweens)
The League will meet the first Friday of the Month at 3:00 p.m. September 6; October 4; November 1; December 6; January 3; February 7; March 7; April 4; May 2.
Lego Club (under 8 must be accompanied by adult)
The Club meet the 1st and 3rd Friday of the Month at 10:30 a.m. Spet 6 and 20; Oct 4 and 18; Nov 1 and 15; Dec 6 and 20; Jan 3 and 17; Feb 7 and 21; March 7 and 21; April 4 and 18; May 2 and 16.
More information about these and any other activities at the Soda Springs Library can be found by visiting sodaspringspubliclibrary.org, calling 208-547-2606, or speaking to the circulation desk or children’s desk.
John Peterson
NEWS OF RECORD
CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF
Jason B Gibson, McCammon, fail to register vehicle annually, $10.50, costs
$56.50
Vamshi M Gundameedi, Cyprus, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Bridger Park Hammond, Nibley, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Melisa Ann Hansen-Giles, Idaho Falls, fail to wear safety restraint, $10.00
Treyton Timothy Hill, Idaho Falls, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Daniel Jacob Ilott, Salt Lake City, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Wen Jiang, San Gabriel, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Braydon William Johnson, Logan, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Grant Stonewall Lakey, Roy, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Michael John Latimore, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Brian John Mancuso, San Diego, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Ryan Gregory Wirth, Salt Lake City, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Emily G Woolf, Highlands, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
SODA SPRINGS POLICE
Clayton Dean Ackerman, fail to yield to pedestrian in crosswalk, $33.50, costs $56.50
Logan Colin Geller, New York, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Gustavo Manzo Anaya, Tacoma, consume or possess open container by passenger, $10.50, costs $86.50
Juan C Manzo Anaya, Berthoud, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Stephen J Marshall, Olmsted TWSP, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Paul Michael Maxfield, Salt Lake City, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Daniel Kent Passolt, Fargo, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Li Shenglui, Nashan District S, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50; fail to yield or stop upon approach of emergency or police vehicle, $33.50, costs $56.50
Jesse Leroy Shepherd, Idaho Falls, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Tressie N Smith, Lemoyne, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Preston D Casey, Ogden, motorcycle or ATV-person 18 years fails to wear helmet, $33.50, costs $56.50
BRAIN TEASERS
Grace City Council Report
Adapted from the official minutes recorded by City Clerk Shelley Reeves
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. The invocation was given by Councilmember Allen and the pledge was led by Clerk Reeves. The minutes of the regular meeting from July 3 were accepted and approved.
Fire Chief Peck reported that the concert had gone well. He stated that there were some adjustments that the Chamber of Commerce would make in the future. The council commended the Chamber of Commerce for doing a great job.
Chief Peck also reported that the fire department responded to a fire north of town. The fire department was made aware of the fire before the call came into dispatch so they were able to respond very quickly. He reminded the council that fire season is upon us and it could be ugly this year due to it being so hot and dry. He stated that the city will follow the lead of the county and issue a city burn ban. No burning is allowed except cooking fires in an established fire pit.
Superintendent Crookston presented the following permits that were approved:
County Permit #2024-029 was issued for Ken and Melonie Rasmussen’s hay shed; #2024-14 Tim Ochsenbein’s shed was permitted; and #2024-15 permitted Jackie Barthlome’s shed.
Sheldon Mayne asked the city council to explain the reasoning behind him receiving letters stating that he needed to remove junk and weeds. He stated that the had some vehicles in his backyard, some licensed and some not. He stated that some of them belong to his neighbor and that they will be getting rid of them. He stated that he has been working on taking care of the weeds. The city council thanked him for working on it and for coming to the meeting and talking to them about it.
Mayor Barthlome stated that after further research it was found that the property that Tim Ochsenbein requested to purchase at the June 19, 2024 meeting is used for drainage for the
subdivision. The city needs to keep possession of it for future drainage and development. Councilmember Allen moved that the city not sell the property and keep it in the city’s possession. Councilmember Toone seconded the motion, which passed.
Councilmember Tollotson moved that the city purchase parade candy for the far parade on August 10. The motion passed.
Superintendent Crookston requested to purchase a flatbed, tilt decked trailer to haul the mini excavator from Valley Implement for $12,700. Councilmember Allen moved to approve the request, which passed.
Cost of Living adjustments and merit raises were discussed. Councilmember Allen moved to approve a 5% COA adjustment for all employees of the city and to discuss merit raises at the upcoming budget meeting. The motion passed.
Superintendent Crookston reported that while they were flushing the sewer lines that the outside sheathing on the jetter hose split. The repair will cost $1,936 and is 2 to 3 weeks out. He is sending the employees to work at the springs and on the road to the springs as often as possible. They have got all the asphalt ripped out on 1st south and he is hoping to have Liddle Constriction repair it while they are here doing other road work. He has been having issues with the SCADA system at the wells. Latech Equipment, the company that installed the radar eyes, is willing to come back and work on the system and train the employees on using it. Councilmember Allen moved to approve Latech to work on the system in and train the employees. Councilmember Tillotson seconded the motion, which passed.
Councilmember Toone complimented Jake Wright on his knowledge and expertise in helping teach Toone Dairy about a waste removal system.
The mayor reported that the sidewalk contractor has all of the paperwork that needed to be done and they should be able to start the week after the fair.
EVENT CALENDARS
SODA SPRINGS/ CARIBOU COUNTY
August 8 – Thursday
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
IDAN-HA Movie
County P&Z (7pm)
Fair Events:See page 4
August 9 – Friday
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Bridge @ The Senior Center
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAN-HA Movie
Youth Football Fair Events:See page 4
August 10 – Saturday
IDAN-HA Movie Fair Events:See page 4
August 11 – Sunday
Presbyterian Services
Caribou Bible Church Services
Catholic Mass (8:30am)
Open Arms Church Services
LDS Services
Hope Lutheran Church
August 12 – Monday
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
August 14 – 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
August 15 – Thursday
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
IDAN-HA Movie
GRACE
August 11 – Sunday
LDS Services
August 12 – Monday
Preschool Story Hour @ Library 10:30am
August 15 – Thursday City P&Z (7pm)
BANCROFT
August 11 – Sunday LDS Services
BIRTHDAYS
Helen Rae Ridge, Aug. 4
Ruth Mayne, Aug. 4
Merna Christensen, Aug. 4
Randy Nelson, Aug. 5
KC Crump, Aug. 7
Robert Alleman, Aug. 8
Steve Somsen, Aug. 8
Kathy Martinsen, Aug. 9
Penni Kadel, Aug. 13
Gene Gummersall, Aug. 13
Bill Vandergriff, Aug. 14
Susan Bolton, Aug. 16
Chance Hawker, Aug. 16
Cheryl Thompson, Aug. 16
Gayla Godfrey, Aug. 20
Lynn Crossley, Aug. 22
Pete Petersen, Aug. 24
Judy Pabst, Aug. 26
Terry Anderson, Aug. 26
Larry Anderson, Aug. 26
Lori Peoples, Aug. 26
Diane Prahl, Aug. 28
Diana Koller, Aug. 31
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
ON THIS DAY
1786 U.S. Congress unanimously chooses the dollar as the monetary unit for the United States of America
1844 Brigham Young chosen as head of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints following the death of Joseph Smith
1854 Smith & Wesson patents metal bullet cartridges
1876 Thomas Edison is granted the patent for Autographic Printing (U.S. Patent 180,857)
1868 American Civil War: Tennessee's "military" Governor Andrew Johnson frees his personal slaves. Celebrated as a holiday by Tennessee African Americans (early 20th century)
ing Studios, for the cover of their "Abbey Road" album
1975 Hank Williams Jr. falls off the side of Ajax Peak in Montana
1992 The original U.S. 'Dream Team' wins the basketball gold at the Barcelona Olympics 117-85 over Croatia; featuring superstars Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Scottie Pippen, Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing
2007 Carlos Slim overtakes Bill Gates as world's richest person with estimated net worth of U.S. $59 billion, according to "Fortune"
2013 Retired Washington Post journalist and editor Ben Bradlee is named as a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama
2017 the Walt Disney Company announces plans to create its own streaming service, cancelling ties with Netflix
Enders Survey Update
In last week’s paper, we posted a QR Code to an Independent survey related to the future of the city’s involvement with the Enders building. Unfortunately, the QR Code we used had an expiration association with it that came into effect. We are posting the updated QR Code which will give respondents access to the survey here.
The survey seeks to gauge public attitudes about what the city plans to do with the building moving forward. At present, the building is owned by the city and leased out as a retail space and hotel, with the stewardship of the historical museum under the same agreement. Options for future plans include continuing the same arrangement that is currently in affect, keeping the building in the city’s inventory but repurposing portions of it to serve as City Hall, or selling the building to a third party.
The survey was independently created by Debbie Dumont and Jo -
anna Ashley, and will serve the purpose of providing data to the City Council and other interested parties about what the community sees as the best moves forward with the city’s relationship to the building. It is neither binding, nor commissioned by any of the interested parties. The results will be presented at an upcoming city council meeting. Details about the survey’s methodology, and access to the form can be found at https://s.surveyplanet. com/I7MJBP1D or through the QR Code. Respondents should be from Soda Springs, and are limited to one survey per device.
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
A one-vehicle rollover involving a commercial truck at the Smoky Canyon Mine claimed the life of Brandon Astle, 39, of Rigby. Caribou County Sheriff’s Office, Caribou and Lincoln County Fire and EMS, Smoky Canyon Mine emergency personnel, and Air 5 air ambulance all responded to the vehicle, which had left the roadway and overturned down an embankment. The accident also resulted in a HazMat spill, which was soon contained. The accident was blamed on the steep gradient which the refueling truck attempted to navigate.
A total fire ban was in place for the county, according to Caribou County Fire Chief Brad Hemmert. Exceptions to the ban included small residential grills and backyard barbecues. Residents were urged to use caution operating trailers, the dragging chains of which can cause sparks that can cause quickly spreading fires.
The Tincup Fire was discovered 30 miles northeast of Soda Springs near the Grays Lake Wildlife Refuge Headquarters. The lightning-caused fire is approximately a half acre in size and creeping in dead and down fuel with minimal fire activity observed. The fire is slowly spreading towards the northeast. Due to the location of the fires and the observed fire behavior, officials feel it is important to let the Tincup Fire play its natural role in the ecosystem. The mixed confer and aspen ecosystem found in Southeast Idaho has evolved with and depends on fire. This does not mean the fire will burn without human intervention. Active measures will occur to create fuel breaks on Forest Service lands between public and private lands to prevent fire spread onto private lands.
Justin Urban was born and raised in Soda Springs. His mom is Julie Lakey of Lakey Farms and his dad is Mike Urban, who owns and operates MSS Trailers and Trucks. He was announced as one of the finalists for the SEMA Automotive Design competition, to be held in Las Vegas. Justin has developed a new flatbed that can fit together from pieces, and be shipped pre-fab to dealers or customers to be installed without a welder.
15 Years ago, 2009
On Saturday Aug 1 at approximately 2:13 p.m. Idaho State Police responded to a motorcycle crash on State Highway 34 at mile marker 72, near Henry. Orlo Jensen, 67, of Preston, was west bound on a 1984 Honda Goldwing motorcycle, when for unknown reasons he failed to negotiate a curve causing his motorcycle to leave the roadway. Jensen was transported to Caribou Memorial Hospital in Soda Springs where he dies from his injuries. Jensen was wearing a helmet. The crash is still under investigation by the Idaho State Police.
Gaye Gunnell volunteered her sculpturing talents to restore the monument of a bedded ewe and lamb, which currently sits north of the geyser, with the encouragement of Marjean Duren. The monument was given to local stockmen 80 years ago as a memento to the importance of livestock in Caribou County.
Thursday, July 30, the Soda Springs junior golfers converged at the Oregon Trail Country Club to finish the season with a golf tournament and luncheon. The season began July 2 when 27 young people signed up to play. The boys and girls met every Thursday for a golf clinic given by Michael Erickson. After the clinic they were grouped by age to go out and play the course. Four weeks later their handicaps were calculated for tournament play. This program would not be possible without the parents, grandparents, brothers, and sister who helped with the score keeping each week. The continued support from the Oregon Trail Country Cllub board of directors, club members, course maintenance staff, and Michael Erickson are also instrumental in keeping the program alive. Lunch Express in Grace has been
in business for 6 months now at their location on North Main Street. The business began by preparing lunches to take to plant workers and other businesses long before that. The Lunch Express is located in the former Blue Bell building. They serve breakfast and lunch from 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and are open Tuesday through Saturday.
Caribou County’s equestrian drill team, the Highlander Hoofbeats, recently competed in the ISRA south district meet in Burley. They competed against five other drill teams from Pocatello, Burley, and Blackfoot. The meet consists of games on horseback as well. The Hoofbeats took 1st place in parade, and 1st place in drill. This is the first year they have earned these top honors.
Members and guests of the Soda Springs High School Class of 1974 met Saturday, July 28 for their 35th high school reunion. Reunion activities included a dinner catered by Judy Geddes, a DVD slide show arranged by Anna Olorenshaw, and visiting. A guessing game was played when pictures of family members, brought by classmates, were displayed for others to try and guess who they were.
Lourene Walters of Soda Springs has been chosen as the Grand Marshal of the Children’s Parade at the Caribou County Fair. Lourene and her husband have lived in Soda Springs for the past 21 years. Lourene is the mother of 10 children but has also been very involved in many school, community, and youth organizations. She has been part of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, the National Science Teacher Association, and the Parents are Teachers Too, where she coordinated parents who volunteered at the school. She received a grant to help fund the Hands-On integrated science teaching, where she developed a science lab for the use of the school and community, She has been the area secretary, advancement chair, and merit badge counselor for the Boy Scouts of America, and has been a 4-H leader, along with many other great things. Parents and citizens appreciate people like Mrs. Walters and all they do for the schools and community because they are helping teach and mold the youth.
The Montpelier Ranger District of the Caribou National Forest is proposing to harvest a small amount of blown-down timber in Eight-Mile Canyon, across from and in the EightMile Campground. Approximately 20,000 board feet would be removed on two acres, all within approximately 250 feet of the road. The decision to be made is whether to harvest these trees, and if so, what mitigation measures will be necessary.
20 Years ago, 2004
Senator Mike Crapo was in Soda Springs Monday, campaigning for his re-election. At a fundraising luncheon, hosted by local industry officials, he was presented an award on behalf of Caribou County sportsmen for his leadership in wildlife interests. The award follows up on an earlier award from the Safari Club International, as their outstanding U.S. Senator this year for his conservation and hunting related efforts. Crap said that this year’s presidential race between John Kerry and President George W. Bush would be as close as the race between Bush and Gore in 2000 [editor’s note—it was not].
Fire danger is very high and expected to get even higher as August wears on. The City of Soda Springs requested that residents and businesses mow vacant lots and other areas where property could be in danger of fire.
Blake Anderson of Grace, and Lee Johnson from Soda Springs brought home medals for their participation, but more importantly, a renewed gratitude for their organ transplants which allowed them this second chance at life. Anderson received silver in golf, bronze in basketball, and bronze in bowling. Johnson received bronze in the long jump and third in the discus.
25 Years ago, 1999
Studio Connection of Grace, under the direction of Andrea Holyoak and Jana Mathews recently took some of their students to Salt Lake City to train with New York’s ‘Manhattan Dance Project.’ Over the course of the two day training, Studio Connection danc-
ers were able to have intense training form some of the finest dancers in the world. These dancers included Bill Vernon and Chet Walker. They were able to attend classes in ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap, swing, and theater dance. Each student was able to have a lot of individual attention from each instructor, and advance their training to the next level.
The Cheerleaders of America cheer instructors selected Sherlene Kirby, Soda Springs High School coach, as ‘Coach of the Year’ at the cheer camp held at Thirkill School July 21-24. The cheer instructors said Sherlene received the first Coach of the Year honor they had awarded. Coach of the Year requires great balance of patience, carrying fun and high expectations. Sherlene works well with the other girls she coaches and has earned their respect over and over again. She values the friendship between the girls and she has the ability to push them to be their best without sacrificing those friendships and memories formed through cheering. The instructors came from California as part of the COA organization and commented on how much they enjoyed the Soda Springs area and would like the opportunity to return.
Crew from the City of Soda Springs were busy Friday and Saturday doing chip and seal. The city hires county employees on their days off and pays for the oil, using county equipment. Portions of six or seven streets were completed, including Third East from the state highways to the south city limits.
30 Years ago, 1994
Six juvenile mails from Soda Springs and Bear Lake County will be charged for malicious injury to property for damaging between 40 and 60 mailboxes in Bear Lake and Caribou Counties. Bear Lake County Sheriff Brent Bunn, Caribou County Sheriff’s Deputies Dan Argyle and Gary Etchison, and Soda Springs City Police Lt. Jerry Bavaro conducted the investigation that included cases in Bennington, Georgetown, Wood Canyon, Trail Canyon, Bailey Creek, the Cedar View Subdivision and Soda Springs. Lt. Bavaro said the six juveniles will be charges with malicious injury to property and will be taken before the proper juvenile authorities. “The boys, in different combinations and locations, have been involved in damaging mailboxes for approximately the past year, with the latest incidents this past weekend in Soda Springs and Bear Lake,” Lt. Bavaro said. In the first six months of last year, the Soda Springs Police Dept. handled 52 juvenile arrests and warnings.
Several people passed through Soda Springs on ride to draw awareness of America’s food insecure. The group traveled from Seattle to Denver and were on their return trip when they stopped. The group was promoting programs such as Head Start and WIC, as well as free school lunch and breakfast initiatives. The group of six riders stated that they had been robbed in Saratoga, WY and Arco, ID, but had recovered most of the stolen resources.
No summer fires had been reported so far, according to Fire Chief Norm Bjorkman. The chief attributed this to the conscientious efforts on the part of citizens during the dry and dangerous fire season. The chief advised continued vigilance with regard to things like barbecues, cookouts, and outdoor grilling. It was also suggested that residents cut down tall dry grasses on their property to minimize the risk posed by accidental ignitions.
40 Years ago, 1984
Caribou County Republican candidates presented an “old-time Dutch-oven chicken dinner” at Hooper Springs on Tuesday. The following candidates have been invited and those attending will be serving the dinner—Senator Jim McClure, Senator Steve Symns, Rep. George Hansen, Rusty Barlow, Mark Duffin, Myron Jones, Senator Reed Budge, Rep. Robert Geddes, Rep. Eugene Stucki, Commissioner Lafe Holbrook, Ariel “Swede” Larson, Sheriff Richard Weaver, and F. Duayne Sims.
The 1984 field trip for the Historical Society will be to the site of the Old Oneida Salt Works. Travel will be done by school bus.
The current infestation of Idaho
farmland by grasshoppers is described by Governor John Evans as “a natural disaster made in Washington, D.C.” Estimates are that grasshoppers, moving into irrigated areas from federal rangeland, could cause as much as $1 billion in damage to farm crops. Evans said the federal Bureau of Land Management and the US Dept of Agriculture failed to respond promptly when the problem developed. The governor asked for assistance from federal agencies in July, and a declaration of emergency to expediate the aid.
A fatality was reported at the Conda plant. An operator on the switch engine, Doug Taylor, was killed as the result of an accident involving railroad cars at the switching yard. The accident was under investigation by OSHA and Beker Industries.
50 Years ago, 1969
The famous Eh-Capa Riders, who made such a hit at the Caribou County Fair and Rodeo last year, are back again for a return performance. The Eh-Capa Riders do not ordinarily do a repeat performance, but were so pleased with their reception last year at Grace that they agreed to return in 1969. The riders will present a special performance, featuring some of their younger performers at the Little Buckaroo Rodeo on Thursday night, and will present a complete performance, featuring some of their younger performers at the Little Buckaroo Rodeo on Thursday night, and will present a complete performance at the ICA Rodeo Friday and Saturday nights.
Carl Hayes of Soda Springs was the winner of the cycle given away by the Snow Drifters July 24. The Hayes’ have two children, Patty, 17, and Landon, 13. Rauhn Panting won a helmet and Norm Bjorkman won a set of truck tie downs. The club wishes to thank everyone who bought tickets and supported them in the project.
On July 21 a 1964 auto was damaged to an extent of $240 when the hood latch came unhooked causing loss of vision. The accident occurred five-and-a-half miles north of Soda Springs on Highway 34. Sheriff Ralph Marriott investigated.
New books in the Soda Springs library include: Freedom Summer, The Third Half, Repairing Small Electrical Appliances, Teachery Trail, Choose Life, the Dowager, All-Around-TheHouse Art and Craft Book, The Passenger On the U, The Cowboy in Art, Metello, The Land of the Golden, and Mountain.
A 16-year old boy has been petitioned in Probate Court on an alleged charge of cattle rustling. The minor is charged with rustling of a calf from Dell Sant’s pasture south of Grace. The calf was taken to the auction in Smithfield, Utah, and sold to a party of Tremonton and the calf was identified as the one stolen from the Sant pasture. The calf still had the metal ear tag of Dell Sant, Grace, Idaho.
On July 20 at 7:30 a.m. a 1965 van truck operated by Jessie Wilson, Lava Hot Springs, struck and killed a calf on a county road. The calf was valued at $90 and damage to the truck was estimated at $90. Sheriff Ralph Marriott investigated.
IDAN-HA THEATRE
-INDOOR-
Thursday, August 8
Friday, August 9
Saturday, August 10
Twisters (PG-13)
Haunted by a devastating encounter with a tornado, Kate Cooper gets lured back to the open plains by her friend, Javi, to test a groundbreaking new tracking system. She soon crosses paths with Tyler Owens, a charming but reckless social-media superstar who thrives on posting his storm-chasing adventures.
Friday & Saturday 6:00 p.m. and 8:15 p.m.
Saturday Matinee
2:00 p.m. (All seats $5)
Wednesday, August 14
6:00 p.m. and 8:15 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
MAGISTRATE DIVISION
TREVOR BARFUSS
Case No. CV!5-24-0064
Petitioner, vs. SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
JENNA DEVINE, Respondent.
TO: Jenna Devine
You have been sued by Trevor Barfuss, Petitioner, in the District Court in and for Caribou County, Idaho, Case No. CV15-24-0064. The nature of the claim against you is for Petition of Paternity, Visitation, Custody, and Child Support. Any time after 21 days following the last publication of this Summons, the Court may enter a judgment against you without further notice, unless prior to that time you have filed a written response in the proper form, including the Case Number, and paid any required filing fee to the Clerk of the Court at 159 S. Main St., Soda Springs, ID 83276, 208-5474324, and served a copy ofyour response on the Petitioner's attorney at Nick L. Nielson, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 6159, Pocatello, Idaho 8320, 208-232-1735. A copy of the Summons and Petition can be obtained by contacting either the Clerk of the Court or the attorney for Petitioner. Ifyou wish legal assistance, you should immediately retain an attorney to advise you in this matter.
DATED this day
712412024 12:13:02 PM
CLERK OF DISTRICT COURT
BY: Cindy Bunderson Deputy Clerk
#1015-8-1-8-15-24-T3
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Bureau of Land Management
[FSRS84221GLKX0-16XFF01R05000; IDI 039529/ IDID105860944]
Notice of Proposed Withdrawal, Transfer of Administrative Jurisdiction, and Opportunity for Public Meeting for the Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge, ID AGENCY: Bureau of Land Management, Interior ACTION: Notice of proposed withdrawal.
SUMMARY: At the request of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and subject to valid existing rights, the Secretary of the Interior proposes to withdraw 158.72 acres of public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) from settlement, sale, location, or entry under the public land laws, from location and entry under the United States mining laws, and from leasing under the mineral and geothermal leasing laws for an indefinite period and transfer administrative jurisdiction over these acres to USFWS for management as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System to support conservation of the aquatic and riparian habitats in the Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Idaho. Publication of this notice temporarily segregates the lands from settlement, sale, location, or entry under the public land laws, from location and entry under the United States mining laws, and from leasing under the mineral and geothermal leasing laws, subject to valid existing rights, for up to 2 years, while the application is being processed. This notice initiates a 90-day comment period and announces an opportunity for the public to request a public meeting on the proposed withdrawal.
DATES: Comments and requests for a public meeting must be received by October 31, 2024.
ADDRESS: All comments and meeting requests should be sent to the BLM Idaho State Office, Attn: 933-Realty/Grays Lake Withdrawal, 1387 S. Vinnell Way, Boise, ID 83709, or email BLM_ID_LLID933000_ Withdrawal@blm.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Christine Sloand, BLM Idaho
State Office, telephone: 208373-3897, email: csloand@blm. gov. Individuals in the United States who are deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability may dial 711 (TTY, TDD, or TeleBraille) to access telecommunications relay services. Individuals outside the United States should use the relay services offered within their country to make international calls to the point-of-contact in the United States.
SUPPLEMENTARY
INFORMATION: The applicant is USFWS, and the petition/ application requests the Secretary of the Interior to withdraw the following 158.72 acres of BLM-managed public lands from settlement, sale, location, or entry under the public land laws, from location and entry under the United States mining laws, and from leasing under the mineral and geothermal leasing laws for an indefinite period, subject to valid existing rights, and transfer administrative jurisdiction over these acres to USFWS for management as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System to support conservation of the aquatic and riparian habitats in the Grays Lake NWR, Idaho: Boise Meridian, Idaho
T. 3 S., R. 43 E., sec. 21, SE1/4SW1/4; sec. 28, NE1/4NW1/4; sec. 30, lot 3.
T. 4 S., R. 43 E., sec. 26, NW1/4SW1/4. The areas described aggregate 158.72 acres in Bonneville County.
This petition/application has been approved for publication by a Secretarial officer in the Department of the Interior and therefore constitutes a withdrawal proposal of the Secretary of the Interior (43 CFR 2310.1-3(e)).
The use of a right-of-way, interagency agreement, or cooperative agreement would not adequately protect the lands from nondiscretionary uses, which could result in a permanent loss of significant values and capital investments. The USFWS requires continued use of rights contained in Water Right Partial Decree 13-13725 that is appurtenant to Tract 1b (T. 4 S., R. 43 E., sec. 26, NW1/4SW1/4).
There are no suitable alternative sites with equal or greater benefit to the government.
For a period of 90 days from the date of publication of this notice, all persons who wish to submit comments or desire a public meeting for the purpose of being heard on the proposed withdrawal must submit a request to the BLM Idaho State Office (see “ADDRESSES”). If the authorized officer determines that a public meeting will be held, a notice of the date, time, and place will be published in the Federal Register and local newspapers and on the BLM website at www.blm.gov at least 30 days before the scheduled date of the meeting.
Comments, including name and street address of respondents, will be available for public review at the BLM Idaho State Office during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Before including your address, phone number, email address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment – including your personally identifying information – may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. All submissions from organizations or businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as representatives of officials of organizations or businesses, will be made available for public inspection in their entirety.
For a period until August 3, 2026, the lands will be segregated as specified above unless the application is denied or cancelled, or the withdrawal is approved prior to that date. This withdrawal application will be processed in accordance with the regulations set forth in 43 CFR part 2300.
(Authority: 43 U.S.C 1714)
Peter Ditton, Acting Idaho State Director. #1022-8-8-24-T1
#1017-8-1-8-24-T2
PUBLIC NOTICE OF INTENT TO PROPOSE OR PROMULGATE NEW OR CHANGED AGENCY RULES
The following agencies of the state of Idaho have published the complete text and all related, pertinent information concerning their intent to change or make the following rules in the latest publication of the state Administrative Bulletin.
The proposed rule public hearing request deadline is August 21, 2024, unless otherwise posted.
The proposed rule written comment submission deadline is August 28, 2024, unless otherwise posted. (Temp & Prop) indicates the rulemaking is both Temporary and Proposed. (*PH) indicates that a public hearing has been scheduled.
IDAPA 11 – IDAHO STATE POLICE
700 S Stratford Dr, Meridian, ID 83642
11-1301-2401, The Motor Carrier Rules. (Temp & Prop) Proposed language reestablishes text inadvertently omitted in prior rulemaking regarding relief from federal regulations for intrastate motor carriers.
IDAPA 20 – IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF LANDS
PO Box 83720, Boise, ID
83720-0050
*20-0702-2401, Rules Governing Conservation of Oil and Natural Gas in the State of Idaho. (*PH) Zero-Based Regulation (ZBR) Rewrite applies to the exploration and extraction of all crude oil and natural gas resources in Idaho, not including biogas, manufactured gas, or landfill gas.
IDAPA 24 – DIVISION OF OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSES
PO Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0063
*24-0201-2402, Rules of the State Athletic Commission. (*PH) ZBR Rewrite provides clarification on the methods and restrictions of unarmed
*24-2901-2401, Rules of Procedure of the Idaho Certified Shorthand Reporters Board. (*PH) ZBR Rewrite governs the practice of shorthand reporting in Idaho to include licensure, *24-3501-2401, Rules of the Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board. (*PH) Proposed edits remove duplicative language already in statute, update CF2 operation dates, increase the maximum number of operators on certain lakes, and add river section to licensable waters.
*24-3601-2402, Rules of the Idaho State Board of Pharmacy. (*PH) ZBR Rewrite regulates and controls the manufacture, distribution, and dispensing of controlled substances within or into the state per Idaho Code and regulates the practice of pharmacy per the Idaho
*24-3990-2401, Rules Governing the Damage Prevention Board. (*PH) ZBR Rewrite applies to underground facilities and facility owners for safe excavation, locating and marking, determining damage, emergency procedures, excavator downtime, premarking of intended excavation areas, and appropriate procedures when encountering
IDAPA 31 – IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
P.O. Box 83720 Boise, ID
31-2101-2401, Customer Relations Rules for Gas, Electric, and Water Public Utilities (The Utility Customer Relations Rules). Per legislative request, rule change requires a utility to mail customers a final notice prior to proposed date of service termination.
IDAPA 58 – DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
1410 N Hilton St, Boise, Idaho 83706 58-0102-2401, Water Quality Standards. Changes remove language that are not water quality standard regulations under the Clean Water Act addressing petroleum releases and storage tanks, and move necessary provisions to companion docket 58-01242401. Comment by 9-6-24 58-0105-2401, Rules and Standards for Hazardous
Waste. Rulemaking ensures that state rules remain consistent with federal regulations incorporated by reference that implement the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, directed by the Idaho Hazardous Waste Management Act. 58-0110-2301, Rules Regulating the Disposal of Radioactive Materials Not Regulated Under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as Amended. ZBR Rewrite regulates and places restrictions on the disposal of radioactive materials not regulated under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, As Amended, at permitted facilities subject to the Idaho Hazardous Waste Management Act and certain radioactive materials at municipal solid waste landfills. 58-0124-2401, Standards and Procedures for Application of Risk Based Corrective Action at Petroleum Release Sites. ZBR Rewrite establishes standards and procedures to determine application measures for property subject to petroleum release response, assessment, and corrective action.
EXECUTIVE ORDERS OF THE GOVERNOR 2024-07, Only Citizens Will Vote Act
NOTICES OF ADOPTION OF TEMPORARY RULE ONLY IDAPA 02 – DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 02-0609-2403, Rules Governing Invasive Species and Noxious Weeds
IDAPA 24 – DIVISION OF OCCUPATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSES 24-3970-2401, Rules Governing Installation of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems
NOTICES OF INTENT TO PROMULGATE RULES –NEGOTIATED RULEMAKING
(Please see the Administrative Bulletin for dates and times of meetings and other participant information)
IDAPA 09 – IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF LABOR 09-0108-2401, Rules on Disclosure of Employment Security Information 09-0503-2401, Rules for Determining Bargaining Representatives
IDAPA 15 – OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR / IDAHO MILITARY DIVISION 15-0605-2401, Hazardous Substance Response Rules
IDAPA 26 – DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION 26-0137-2401, Rules Governing Test Procedures and Instruments for Noise Abatement of Off Highway Vehicles
IDAPA 31 – IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION 31-4101-2401, Customer Relations Rules for Telephone Corporations Providing Services in Idaho Subject to Customer Service Regulation by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (The Telephone Customer Relations Rules)
Please refer to the Idaho Administrative Bulletin August 7, 2024, Volume 24-8, for the notices and text of all rulemakings, proclamations, negotiated rulemaking and public hearing information and schedules, executive orders of the Governor, and agency contact information.
Issues of the Idaho Administrative Bulletin can be viewed at www.adminrules. idaho.gov/
Office of the Administrative Rules Coordinator, Division of Financial Management, PO Box 83720, Boise, ID 837200032 Phone: 208-334-3900; Email: adminrules@dfm.idaho.gov
#1020-8-8-24-T1
Public Notice 2025 Proposed Fiscal Year Budget
(10-01 - 24)-(09-30-25)
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that the Board of IDAWY Solid Waste District will meet on Wednesday , August 15, 2024 at the hour of 9 :00 a . m . at the Caribou County Fire Station i n Soda Springs, Idaho for the purpose of considering and fixing a final budget and making appropriations to each office, department, service , agency, or institution and fund for the next fiscal year , and to re-open the fiscal year 2324 budget for unanticipated expenses and revenue, at which time any taxpayer may appear and be heard upon any part or parts of the said tentative budget ; and that the following table sets forth the amount to be appropriated to "Salaries" and "Other Expenses " during the fiscal year of October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025 by said departments, to wit :
Fish Stocking Updates
Approximately 85,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout will be stocked throughout the state this August.
Many of Idaho’s lakes and ponds are soon going to be bolstered with Idaho Fish and Game stocking roughly
Hunt page on Fish and Game's website.
Second big game controlled hunt drawing application period is August 5-15
Draw results will be posted by August 26.
Fish and Game Report
85,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout this August. Wondering if the stocking trucks are going to be backing up to your favorite fishing hole? We asked our Fish and Game hatchery staff to boil down some of the most notable stocking highlights coming to your local fishery this month.
Many of these fisheries highlighted below are easy to access, family-friendly fishing destinations. All you need to get started is a fishing license and some basic tackle. Annual adult fishing licenses cost around $30, junior licenses (ages 14-17) cost $16, and youth (under 14) fish for free. Go to Fish and Game's online vendor to buy a license.
Crystal Springs Pond – 1,000 rainbow trout
This spring fed pond is always clear and cool! Located near Springfield, this family-friendly pond has a paved walking path and docks for easy fishing access.
Cub River – 500 rainbow trout Fish are stocked in and around the Willow Flat Campground (50+ sites available), so make a fishing trip here an overnight adventure. To help inform decision making about this fishery, we strongly encourage anglers to report tagged fish that they catch.
Kelly Park Pond – 500 rainbow trout
Located in Soda Springs, accessing this pond requires a short walk, but it offers a great kids’ fishing opportunity. Lace up the boots, grab the fishing poles, and take the kids on a nature walk!
Montpelier Creek – 1,000 rainbow trout
Enjoy good creek fishing and a variety of camping options.
Montpelier Rearing Pond – 500 rainbow trout
This little fishing spot is tucked into a scenic high desert canyon at 6,500 feet in the hills east of Montpelier.
Second Super Hunt drawing will include tags for two elk, two deer, two pronghorn and one moose hunt. Deadline for the second Super Hunt drawing is Aug. 10. The second Super Hunt drawing will include tags for two elk, two deer, two pronghorn and one moose hunt. A Super Hunt Combo that includes one tag for each of those species will also be drawn. All winners will be notified in mid-August.
Hunters may enter the drawings at license vendors, Fish and Game offices, online or by calling 1-800-5548685. You can buy as many entries you want for Super Hunts or the Super Hunt Combo. No license is needed to enter a Super Hunt drawing for either residents or nonresidents.
Super Hunt winners get the best of the best by being able to hunt any open hunt in Idaho for the species they draw, general or controlled hunts, until they tag an animal. Any Super Hunt tag is also considered an extra tag so you can still use your general or controlled hunt tag. For more information, including frequently asked questions and photos of previous winners, visit the Super
The application period for Idaho’s second big game controlled hunt drawing runs Aug. 5-15. Any hunter who drew a controlled big game hunt tag has until Aug. 1 to buy it, and those that aren't purchased will be available for a second drawing. To see available big game tags available for the second application period, check out the Controlled Hunt Information webpage. Tags will be listed after Aug. 1 and before the application period starts.
Tags available in the second drawing include those for deer, elk, pronghorn, and black bear that were not applied for in the first drawing, and those that were not claimed by the Aug. 1 deadline.
Draw results will be posted by Aug. 26, and any tags left over after that will be sold first-come, first-served on that date at 10 a.m. MDT.
Hunters with a valid 2024 Idaho hunting license may apply for controlled hunts at any Fish and Game office, license vendor, on the Fish and Game mobile app or with a credit card online at GoOutdoorsIdaho.com. There is an additional fee for online and phone orders.
AUGUST 2024
8/1 – DEADLINE to purchase controlled hunt tags (except unlimited and January hunts)
8/1 – ON SALE: Sage-grouse and sandhill crane tags at 10 a.m. MDT
8/5 – OPEN: Second application period for deer, elk, pronghorn, and fall bear controlled hunts
8/6 – ON SALE: Leftover early-season controlled hunt tags at 10 a.m. MDT
8/8 – ON SALE: Second tag and returned tag sale at 10 a.m. MDT
8/10 – DEADLINE to apply for second Super Hunt drawing
8/15 – CLOSED: Second application period for deer, elk, pronghorn, and fall bear controlled hunts
8/26 – ON SALE: Leftover controlled hunt tag sale at 10 a.m. MDT (if available)
8/30 – OPEN: General archery season for deer and elk in most of the state
8/30 – OPEN: Cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare seasons; fall turkey season in most of Idaho; forest grouse season
2025 Art Contest: Design next year’s hard card for Fish and Game licenses
Submissions are due August 31, winners will be chosen by September 5, 2024.
Calling all Idaho artists!
Idaho Fish and Game is seeking art submissions for the 2025 durable hard card licenses. Each year Idaho Fish and Game issues hard card licenses that fit in your wallet and include collectable art of Idaho’s iconic species. Submission will be taken for bighorn sheep, mountain goat, redband trout and sockeye salmon. One fish and one big game submission will be chosen. Each winner will receive a $1,000 for use of their artwork.
Please see the below requirements to
The cost for a standard obituary:
$89 500 words with one color photo
The cost for an ultimate obituary: $159 501 words plus and 2 color photos * additional photos $25 each
To submit an obituary: email: sherrie.w@thecityjournals.com
Mail or drop o at the The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 205, Malad Idaho 83252 100 E. 90 S., Malad, Idaho 208-766-4773
enter your artwork:
• Entries are due by midnight (MDT) August 31, 2024 and should be submitted via email to idfgmarketing@ idfg.idaho.gov. Winners will be selected buy Sept. 5. Submissions sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• Design should include one of the following Idaho native species: redband trout, sockeye salmon, bighorn sheep, or mountain goat.
• There is no limit for the number of submissions.
• Designs must be able to incorporate the Idaho Fish and Game “Go Outdoors Idaho” logo in the bottom, right-hand corner (see below)
• Designs must be horizontal meeting the following specs:
o Size: 17-inches by 11-inches with a .125 inch bleed. Final designs will be placed on a durable hard card sized at 3.375 inches wide by 2.125 inches high.
o Resolution: min of 300 dpi
o Color Profile: CMYK
o File formats accepted:
• .psd, .eps, or .ai
• .pdf - high print quality
• Artist must be willing to sign a professional service agreement for use of the artwork on hard cards and in promotional materials. All entries should include the artist's name, email address, phone number and mailing address.
Second Super Hunt entry deadline is August 10.
Hunters looking for more opportuni-
ty are reminded that the second Super Hunt drawing will be for two elk, two deer, two pronghorn, and one moose hunt. Another Super Hunt Combo that
includes one of each species will also be drawn. Entries are $6 per entry, and $20 for the Super Hunt Combo, and you can enter as many times as you like. Deadline to apply is Aug. 10, and winners will be notified by Aug. 20.
Super Hunt winners can hunt any open hunt for the species they draw, general or controlled hunts. No license is needed to enter a Super Hunt drawing for either residents or nonresidents. Super Hunt tags are also considered an extra tag, so you can still use your general or controlled hunt tag. For more information, visit the Super Hunt webpage.
War on Weeds—weeds are everybody’s problem
THE ISSUE: Squarrose knapweed Squarrose knapweed (Centaurea virgata) is a long-lived perennial native to the eastern Mediterranean area. It invades dry disturbed areas as well as grasslands and rangelands. It tolerates dry and cold conditions better than other knapweed species. Its ability to form dense monocultures allows it to out compete native species. It is not palatable to livestock or wildlife when plants are mature which gives it an advantage over desirable vegetation. Squarrose knapweed stems are highly branched, rough in texture, and can grow 1-3 ft. tall. It has a woody crown and thick taproot. It has deeply lobed lower and rosette leaves. Upper leaves are smaller, linear, have smooth edges and have a bract-like appearance. A single pink to pale-purple flower is produced at branch tips. Squarrose knapweed has pale green to straw-colored bracts at the base of each flower head. Spines on seed heads cling to animals and clothing aiding in dispersal. Look- A- Likes Diffuse knapweed (Centaurea diffusa) looks similar, but it has teeth on the edges of the bracts and the bracts are not curved outward like squarrose knapweed.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Options:
• Prevention— Learn to identify this plant. Never transport unknown plant material. Always plant clean seed!
courtesy of Cindy Roche, Bugwood.org
• Cultural— Establish a healthy stand of beneficial plants. Grazing plants when they are young and palatable may help suppress populations.
• Chemical—Aminopyralid and Picloram are two herbicide active ingredients that can effectively control this weed. Refer to https://pnwhandbooks.org/weed then search “knapweeds”. Always read and follow herbicide label directions.
Justin Hatch, University of Idaho Extension Agriculture Educator in Caribou and Bear Lake Counties. 208-5473205 JLHatch@uidaho.edu
• Mechanical— Hand digging or pulling can be effective on small infestations. Remove as much of the crown as possible. Cultivation can be effective if roots are cut deep below the soil surface.
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.
It has been nothing but round the clock competition from the 2024 Paris Olympics. Into the second week of elite contests, the 33rd Olympic Games has been nothing short of mind-blowing. There have been moments of disappointing defeat, but those moments have been far surpassed by the dominating spirit of determination, grit, tenacity, and resolve to put everything on the line. Over the last week, Team USA has taken a commanding lead on the medal table, leading with 79 total medals after Day 10. Here is a look at those great athletes that have made such a dominating show possible.
With the conclusion of the swimming events, Team USA tallied up 28 medals to surge past Australia in their pool rivalry, 8 of those medals being gold. The women’s team won silver in the 4 x 200m freestyle relay that paled to their gold in the 4 x 100m medley relay and in the 4 x 100 medley relay as they set a new Olympic record, beating the record by nearly a second and finishing a full three seconds ahead of Australia in second place.
Earning individual medals for the women’s team included Regan Smith with a silver in the 100m backstroke, 200m butterfly, and 200m backstroke, Katharine Berkoff with bronze 100m backstroke, Torri Huske with a silver in 100m freestyle, and Kate Douglass with the gold in 200m breaststroke and silver in the 200m individual medley.
Leading the charge for the women’s team was four time olympian Katie Ledecky who made history in multiple ways as she won her fourth consecutive medal in the 800m freestyle, her second gold medal in the 1500m freestyle and a silver medal in the 200m freestyle to make her the most decorated U.S. female Olympian of all time. Throughout the 2024 Olympics, Ledecky has wowed the fans not only with her impressive medal count but her impressive fashion in doing so. In her 1500m qualifying race, she finished the grueling 30 laps 18 seconds before the second place winner. Even in the final race, Ledecky was a standout with a 10 second lead. Competitors accepted that as she alone holds the 20 fastest times in the race, they were all competing for second place.
Ledecky’s counterpart in the men’s 1500m freestyle, Bobby Finke, set a new world and olympic record with his repeat gold medal win. Finke also added a silver in the 800m freestyle. The men’s team won silver in the 4 x 100m medley relay and 4 x 200m freestyle relay. The two swim teams finished out the pool events with a gold in the mixed 4 x 100 medley relay.
Team USA’s success in the water wasn’t limited to the pool as a number of teams and individuals medalled in other various open water events. Evy Leibfarth won bronze in the women's single canoe single. Leibfarth qualified 12th of 12 finalists which put her first to go in the final round. Her strong performance was the one to chase for nearly the entire final round.
The men’s rowing teams turned a corner as they added two medals to the count. The rowing four man team won gold, battling it out to the finish with New Zealand. It was the first men's rowing four medal since the Rome Olympics 1960. The rowing eight man team won bronze, holding the position over the 2000 m race.
Ian Barrows and Hans Henken sailed into a bronze medal finish in the men’s skiff event. After placing in the top 10 in each of their 11 races, they qualified for 12th and final race. Accumulating points across their races, a fourth place finish is all it took to solidify their place on the medal stand.
The women’s gymnastics team didn’t disappoint as they were slated for gold in the team event. Moving into the individual events, they have tallied an additional 7 medals. Simone Biles won gold in the All-Around and vault with a silver in the floor exercise. Suni Lee took bronze in the All-Around as well as in the uneven bars. Jordan Chiles won bronze in the floor exercise with Jade Carey taking bronze in the vault.
“The pommel horse guy” Stephen Nedoroscik found himself on the medal stand once again after a stunning performance in his single event to win a second bronze medal. The gymnast has been compared to Clark Kent by social media fans as the nerdy boy (in his own words) whips off his dark rimmed glasses and transforms into an American hero with his own super human abilities. Nedoroscik completed the vision as he draped the flag around his shoulders like his own Superman cape.
Speaking of heroes, the USA Women's rugby 7s has become an American star in their own right as they won a bronze medal, the first ever medal in rugby 7s. The team clinched the victory over the favored Aussies with a jaw dropping late try in the final seconds to win 14-12. Team USA was deep in their own territory with the Australian defense not allowing any gains when Alex Sedrick broke loose and ran the entire distance of the field for the score. She then made the conversion kick to put them ahead on the scoreboard and place them on the medal stand.
Kristne Faulkner was another that defied the odds, winning a gold medal in the women’s road race when she
had only made the Olympic team as a replacement. Faulkner rode a near perfect race over the 98 miles that put her in position to attack and push at the finish in a way that made her unbeatable. Her win made her the first American rider in 40 years to win a medal in the event. Cycling teammate Peris Benega added a silver medal in the women’s BMX event. Benega had worked her way back from an ACL-LCL surgery in June 2023, only returning to competition in May to qualify for the Paris Olympics.
Capturing gold in all of her events, Lee Kiefer led her team to a golden victory over Italy in the women’s foil team event with Lauren Scruggs, Jackie Dubrovich and Maia Weintraub.
Going four for four, Vincent Hancock won gold in the men’s skeet shooting in his fourth Olympics, beating out his own coachee Conner Lynn Prince in a head to head in the gold medal round. Hancock also claimed a silver medal in the mixed skeet event as he teamed up with another of his pupils, Austen Jewell Smith. In the women’s single skeet event, Smith also found herself on the medal stand in the bronze position.
In similar fashion, coach Brady Ellison won the silver men’s individual archery then took bronze in the mixed with women’s Case Kaufhold. The duo clinched the 6-2 victory over India, awarding Kaufhold with the first medal for Team USA in women’s archery since 1988.
Team USA’s three man equestrian jumping team was awarded the silver medal, a repeat of their Tokyo Olympics accomplishment. Also earning silver was Sergeant Sagen Maddalena in the women's 50m rifle 3 position silver, earning a position on the medal stand in her second Olympics.
Looking for redemption after struggling in their individual triathlon races, the mixed triathlon relay team found their place on the silver medal podium.
The women’s 3x3 women's basketball won bronze over Canada. CapitalizIng on Canada’s mistakes, Team USA hit 5/7 from the free throw line from Canada’s 8 fouls, forced 7 turnovers, grabbed 14 rebounds to win 16-13.
Grant Fisher kicked off Team USA’s track medals as he won the bronze in the men’s 10,000m race. There were high hopes for Sha’carri Richardson as she looked for redemption in the 100m run. Unfortunately she had to settle for a silver medal after she came out of the blocks behind all the competition. Also running in the 100m dash for Team USA was Melissa Jefferson, coming in just behind Richardson for the bronze.
On the flip side, Noah Lyles didn’t disappoint after all his smack talk of being the best in men’s 100m. Win-
ning gold with a personal best time of 9.784, Lyles admitted that he was flying blind in the race, unable to see his toughest competition in lane 7. As he came to the finish line, Lyles leaned in ahead just enough to claim the win. Fred Kerley came in just fractions of a second behind Lyles to finish in third for the bronze.
Team USA’s mixed 4x400 relay team won silver, narrowly missing out on the gold as the team from the Netherlands inched past in the final stretch. Despite coming up second, the team celebrated their new world record set in the qualifying race.
Ryan Crouser added a gold in the shot put, leading the event from his first throw to his sixth. He won the contest with a season best of 22.90 meters. The win made him the first ever man to have 3 golds in shot put. Sharing the light on the medal stand was teammate Joe Kovacs with the silver medal finish.
Winning the first ever USA medal in the triple jump, Jasmine Moore earned bronze on her jump of 14.67 m on one of her first attempts, despite the rainy, wet track. Valarie Allman also made history with her gold medal discus throw. Her repeat win made Allman the first US women to win back to back field event gold medals. Her winning throw of 69.50 meters surpassed the best mark of second-place Bin Feng of China by nearly two full meters. The final track and field medal for Team USA was earned by pole vaulter Sam Kendricks. Clipping his hands with his spikes early in the competition, Kendricks found his hands bloody and sore. Still, the world class vaulter made his way to a second place finish, coming up short behind his Swedish competitor who set a new world record for the 9th time at 6.25m.
On the tennis courts Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram won silver in the men’s tennis doubles. The team found themselves in what was obviously a true matchup of the best as the lead went back a number of times. Coming in for the bronze in a game of no contest was Fritz Taylor and Tommy Paul.
A final gold medal for Team USA came from Scottie Scheffler in the men’s individual golf stroke play. Trailing the leaders and coming in as an afterthought, Scheffler’s win was a come from behind victory for the ages. Moving into the final week of competitions, Team USA looks to keep their lead on the medal stand. It is unlikely that any other country will catch them with the total number of medals, but the real contest will lie in the gold medal count. The 2024 Paris Olympics will truly be an exciting watch down to the very final events.
Allison Eliason
Statewide Classification Changes For High Schools
Jody Reeves
With the heat of summer starting to loosen its hold and August already upon us, we begin to see the fall high school sports season coming into focus. With a new school year comes some changes for the local schools. In recent years there has been a push by some districts to make changes to the classification enrollment numbers. Last year the state governing board over high school athletics, the IHSAA, took a hard look at a few different proposals that would do just that. However, after much deliberation, the IHSAA board ultimately decided to make no changes and leave the numbers as they stood at that time.
There was a distinct divide within the member schools of the state on whether or not that was the correct line of action. It was at that time that some of the members found a loophole, if you will, within the IHSAA Bylaws. Section 5 of the Bylaws allows for member schools to bring forth a member initiative that could
override what the IHSAA had voted on regarding changes to the classifications within the state. During that process a proposal was brought to the member schools to vote on. The new proposal would add a 6A classification and eliminate the need for two 1A classifications. When the votes were tallied 100 of the 152 member schools voted in favor of the new proposal which in turn overruled the IHSAA vote changing the vast majority of the schools in the state classification assignment.
The schools that appear to have been most in favor of the changes came from districts 3 and 4 with each district having over 80% of their schools approve. Schools from district 5 where Caribou County schools align were less enthusiastic about the changes with only eight of seventeen schools voting in favor of the change. In the end, the three local high schools have been assigned new classification numbers.
Despite the changes to the classification titles little will change
in regards to local schools, district and statewide opponents. Previously North Gem was classified as 1AD2 with Grace as 1AD1 and Soda Springs as 2A. Previously 1AD2 schools included schools with enrollment numbers of 84 students or below. 1AD1 included schools with enrollment numbers of 85-159 and 2A had enrollment numbers of 160-319. If the IHSAA vote would have stood, the most significant change would have been Grace moving up to 2A replacing Bear Lake in the Southeast Idaho Conference, fully igniting the Soda Springs/Grace rivalry. However, with the new changes that will not be happening anytime soon. The new classification alignments are as follows, schools with enrollment numbers of 89 and below are 1A, 90-174 are 2A, and 175-349 are 3A. The last enrollment count had our local school enrollments as North Gem with 43, Grace with 170, and Soda Springs with 265.5. These numbers have likely fluctuated a little and are assessed every two years.
Back To School Transportation Safety
It's that time of year once again where the question of whether or not you are ready for school to start will be asked. No matter which side you stand on there is no stopping it and if you think that it doesn't affect you because you don't have school aged kids then I’m here to tell you how it does. One of my alter egos is a school bus driver as well as a driver trainer. Every year thousands of school bus drivers are required to participate in several hours of training in order to do their job. Part of my job as a bus driver trainer requires me to travel to Boise to receive the training material and attend training meetings where we discuss things like bus safety. This training almost always includes stop arm violations which inevitably starts a discussion on the amount of these types of violations we see as bus drivers every year. For those who may not know what a stop arm violation is, it is when another vehicle on the road passes a stopped school bus that has its red lights flashing. Similar to a traffic light, school buses are equipped with both yellow and red flashing lights. Also similar to a traffic light if a driver in another car sees yellow flashing lights they should begin to slow down and prepare to stop. If red lights are flashing on the bus, other drivers should come to a complete stop regardless of which direction they are traveling in. The only exception to this rule is if you are traveling in the opposite direction on highways with four or more lanes with two lanes going in each direc-
tion. After stopping for a bus with red flashing lights drivers should remain stopped until all children are clear of the road and the bus driver turns off the red flashing lights.
A few things drivers should consider when encountering a school bus on the road are:
1- The vast majority of students in our area that ride the bus are elementary school age. This means that they themselves are going to be much less aware of their surroundings. The excitement of going back to school and then returning home to report their day to their parents will often have them running on and off of the bus not thinking about road safety so it is up to us as responsible drivers to be watching for them.
2- Several buses now come equipped with stop arm cameras. Like many other times in our lives our actions while driving are being recorded. The days of passing a bus then denying it was you are over. These cameras are capable of recording cars' make, model, license plate, and drivers image.
3- Local law enforcement takes these violations seriously. Often early on in the school year an officer will follow a bus on its route to see if drivers are obeying the laws in regards to stopped school buses. In the Boise training I mentioned earlier law enforcement officers brought dashcam videos of them doing just that. Dozens of vehicles were caught passing buses with their flashing lights on. It happens way more than any of us think.
So what does all of this mean? North Gem will drop the D2 distinction from their 1A classification, Grace will now be 2A and Soda Springs will now be 3A. North Gem will remain in the very large Rocky Mountain Conference with many of the same district opponents. One notable difference will be the addition of Challis to their conference who had their petition to remain 1A approved by the state. With Challis staying down at 1A the High Desert Conference that Grace belongs to will stay a small three team conference with just Grace, Butte County and Alturas Prep. The main difference in the Southeast Idaho Conference is the departure of Bear Lake leaving Soda Springs with just three district opponents Malad, Westside, and Aberdeen. After all of the dust has settled the numbers in front of the “A” may have changed but most of the faces will be the same as competition begins later this month.
4- Lastly and most importantly is that you as a driver do not want to live with the experience of causing a horrific accident because you were not watching for buses and the students they are transporting. As bus drivers there is no worse feeling than seeing a car pass us when our lights are flashing and students are trying to load or unload.
Adventures are important for kids
Ranch kids can sometimes be a sort of a phenomenon. They are little bodies with big dreams and ideas trapped inside without the thought that they can’t do whatever it is that they want to do. They go about following the big ranchers working day in and day out and figure they are just as capable, just as intuitive and just as strong. As funny and maybe even as frustrating as it is, they don’t seem to believe that they have any limits.
With a big wide world out there to explore, why should they ever believe they can’t accomplish what they set their mind to?
The truth is, in an attempt to keep kids safe, opportunities for childhood crusades are going by the wayside. Instead of letting kids roam around the neighborhood or take a walk down the street with their friends, they are being cooped up under the constant supervision of helicopter parents. And unfortunately, it is beginning to take its toll.
Speaking with the Washington Post in October of 2023, psychology research professor Peter Gray and anthropologist David Lancy admitted concerns they have that the lack of truly independent play is leading to a mental health crisis in kids.
Some favorite movies from my childhood center around a pack of friends that gather out on the streets to play pick-up games, form a club or just hang out. From the Sandlot to The Little Rascals to The Goonies they showed life as a kid independent of hovering adults that wanted to ensure that they could stay safe and happy.
It’s too bad that in an attempt to help, to keep them from harm, to prevent the possible bad that COULD
happen, kids are also being kept from the amazing growth we know could also happen. Instead, what kids are learning is that bad things are constantly happening around them and they alone can’t handle it. They need parents to tell them to avoid falling off the fence or how to not scrape up their knees. And as they grow up, they are going to face far bigger challenges and just might not have the mental toughness to handle it. Sadly enough, kids are more likely to suffer from the devastating effects of anxiety and depression than they are of scraping a knee, breaking an arm or evening being kidnapped by a stranger these days.
While there are countless reasons I’m grateful to raise my kids on the ranch, watching them learn to be independent as they work and play has got to be top of the list. They come and go for drinks and snacks, to grab a rope or to snag a tool, but for the most part my kids, like so many other ranch kids, are out for adventure all day everyday. Am I nervous that the worst possible scenario could happen? Often, yes. But we are choosing to live outside of that fear and when we do, we see our kids flourish.
More often than not, I’m surprised how wrong I can be when I think my kids can’t do something or might get hurt. We come along a situation that I want to carefully steer everyone through only to find that these industrious, creative and competent kids are already masters of sticky situations. They know how to solve problems and fix what seems to be broken. And they prove to me time and time again that there is very little they can’t handle.
Because I’m a mom, I probably won’t stop worrying or thinking of those scary things that might happen. But when I do, I want to remember that instead of trying to protect them with a helpless shield of don’t-do-
As schools in the area begin to start the year next week please remember it takes all of us to help keep the children safe as they travel back and forth from school. Parents please help children to follow proper loading and unloading procedures and drivers watch for the yellow school buses and their flashing lights.
that-you-might-get-hurt, I have already armed them with past experiences of strength, courage and knowhow to help them get through the next big challenge.
