The Idaho Enterprise/Caribou County | August 22, 2024
A Cruise for Krew
Krew Hemmert has been through a lot, and there’s undoubtedly a lot more to come at him down the road, but as he goes down it he’ll have support from an entire community. In recent months cross the valley, the young man from Grace has become a well-known figure.
Last week, it was the Soda Springs Student Council, Cheerleaders, and Main Street Cruisers’ turn to pitch in. The event was spearheaded by Degan Stoor and the Student Council, and quickly taken up by the Cruisers.
“It started as a cruise to benefit somebody in town who needed it, and every year it’s happened since. Student Council spearheaded this one,” said Jennifer Squires, who along with her husband Dan are longtime members of the Main Street Cruisers. “There are so many people to support—It’s always turned out really awesome. I hope tonight is amazing.”
The SSHS Student Council set up a donation table near the Firetruck parked in between Soda Sip and Point S Tire, which saw a steady stream of foot and car traffic throughout the evening. The Soda Springs Cheerleaders set up a bake sale table a bit further west in the parking lot. As the cruise of vehicles—some classic, some newly minted— drove through the lot, they received a smile and a wave from the Hemmert family, the student council, and the SSHS Cheer team, as well as Krew himself.
The Student Council has been active in the weeks before school starts, as the new officers start getting familiar with their positions. This is their first major event of the school year. Advisor Sherlene Kirby was thrilled to be at the cruise in support of Krew, and has been a strong motivator for SSHS students and the student council over
the years. “This council got the idea and just took it from there,” she said.
Student Council president Degan Stoor explained, “Ever since we heard he got diagnosed we wanted to do something. Although he doesn’t go to Soda for school, he’s still part of our community and we just wanted to do something special for him. Both of his siblings go to school in Soda Springs, and all the money we raise from this and personal donations all go to the Hemmert family for travel and medical expenses. Soda Sip stayed open late, and all their proceeds from this are going to the family as well. We just wanted to do it so he's not alone, and he knows he has a
Phil Donahue dies at 88 Legendary talk show host, Phil Donahue, passed away after battling a long illness, his family announced on Monday. His family said in their statement, “Donahue died at his home surrounded by his family, including his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas, his sister, his children, grandchildren and his beloved golden retriever, Charlie”. For nearly three decades, Donahue hosted “The Phil Donahue Show”. In May, Donahue received the Medal of Freedom award from President Joe Biden. The award is the nation’s highest civilian honor.
650-acre wildfire west of Pocatello is contained
The 650-acre fire started around 4:30 p.m. in the Michaud Creek area. Both lanes of I-86 were initially closed but reopened around 6:20 p.m. The fire briefly jumped the interstate, but the firefighters were able to push it back. The fire is believed to have been caused by lightning. Strong winds blowing through the area caused the fire to quickly spread, which led to evacuations in the area. Around 50 homes were originally evacuated. According to authorities, the fire was fully contained around 10:00 p.m. and people were allowed to return to their homes. No homes or structures were damaged and there were no reported injuries.
First Tater Tot Festival celebrates the history of Idaho snacks while raising money for child abuse prevention
According to East Idaho News, Community members gathered at Sandy Downs in Idaho Falls on Saturday to raise awareness and money towards ending child abuse. The Greater of Idaho Falls Chamber hosted and organized the festival, and also celebrated the history of the tater tot. Leslie Grigg and his cousin Steve Grigg recently formed the nonprofit Protect Your Tots Foundation. “Protect your tots” was the theme for the day, with all proceeds going to a new Family Justice Center, a central location for the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Center to process cases. Steve and Leslie’s fathers, F. Nephi and Golden Grigg, founded OreIda, the company that invented the tater tot. According to Steve, F. Nephi and Golden Grigg were victims of child abuse, and their family is using their platform to stand up for all victims.
1 dead and 7 injured in Baltimore shooting Police said, one man was killed and seven people were hospitalized in a shooting in Baltimore on Sunday. Richard Worley, the Baltimore Police Commissioner, described the deceased as a 36-year-old man. Six of the injured were also men and one woman, ages 22-45. Worley said some of the victims were in critical condition, and others were stabilized. The shooting was reported just after 8:00 p.m. “At some point it looks like multiple people opened fire,” Worley said. Police quickly arrived on scene and were able to mark evidence. Worley said, “We’ve got a lot of evidence…and we’re looking for a lot of video.”
Krew Hemmert, flanked by members of the Soda Springs High School Student Council and advisor Sherlene Kirby
Degan Stoor presented Krew with a number of gifts on behalf of the Student Council at SSHS
Krew and his dad Kevin, speaking with Sherlene Kirby.
Krew Hemmert
Brynlee and Becky Hemmert at A Cruise for Krew on Friday.
Caribou County Fair Open Classes
Every fair is somewhat familiar to a fairgoer, and every fair has its own unique rhythms and particularities. All of which is to say that my first go round at the Caribou County Fair in an official capacity was something of a trial by fire. Between Jody Reeves and myself, and with the assistance of Shelley Reeves, Melanie Hatch and others we managed to attend the bulk of events and get the results sorted. That’s not to say that we can’t improve for next year. One of the things I hope to have in place by then is a good system for getting pictures of Sweepstakes winners and other champions with their entries. For this year, here is a list of the winners, pictures of their winning entries, and a few extras.
Katie Crofts
Cam Cole
Jodi Hardy & Diane Krebs
Deita Jensen
Eve Jensen
Sydney Allen
Sherie Ann Flagg and Yvette Weeks
Caribou County Fair welcomes visitors once again!
Shirley Wheeler
Shilvah Torgesen
Karen Beckstead
Some of the junior art at this year's fair.
Chris Banks
Liam McCurdy
Suzanne Weeks
Larry Allen
Amelia Hansen
The entrance to the 4-H room at the Caribou County Fair exhibit hall.
Fun Food And Prizes At Booster Club Event
Jody Reeves
Last Thursday the Soda Springs Booster Club kicked off the 2024-25 school year with a fun filled night that included a corn hole tournament, raffles, food and an introduction of the fall sports athletes and their coaches. The night started with the introduction of each team that included the football, volleyball, boys and girls cross country, cheer and dance teams. The crowd cheered as over seventy five student athletes lined the side of the football field.
Next up was the corn hole tournament. As the time came to begin there were eleven teams signed up for the event. Rather than give one team a first round bye the event’s MC Ryan Carpenter, and Ben Jacobson reluctantly formed a team giving the tournament an even number of teams. Before even making it through a single game Ben Jacobson was called to his job at the hospital and was replaced by secret weapon Lily Davis. Lily and Ryan would get on a roll and even when Ben returned from the hospital all parties agreed that they should stick with Lily through the remainder of the tournament. The decision would pay off as Ryan and Lily would make it to the championship
match facing off against the strong team of Brandon Green and Chris Gonzales. The sharpshoot team of Lily and Ryan would finish unscathed taking home the top prize of $200. Brandon and Chris would take second and win $100. Rounding out the top three teams was Braxten Jacobsen and Ryker Tingey placing third and winning $60. The night finished with raffle drawings for a wide variety of donated prizes from local businesses.
Money raised from the night's events will go to the booster club who hopes
to be able to raise enough money to install a permanent restroom facility located near the football field. Currently the only restrooms available for the outdoor sporting events are portable toilets.
The Booster Club which has just recently been brought back to Soda Springs is working hard to continue to make the high school experience an enjoyable and memorable one for the students. They meet regularly to brainstorm and plan activities that will benefit the whole communi-
ty. The current Booster Club consists of President Paulette Ericsson, Vice President Ora Eisenbarth, Treasurer Jyll Kern, and Secretary Ashley Ozburn. If you would like to support the Booster Club or the students contact one of the presidency members and they will let you know how you can contribute.
Thirkill Elementary Welcomes New Staff
Thirkill Elementary School and the Soda Springs School District is excited to welcome Jessica Ineck and Alexa Teuscher to their staff.
Thirkill Elementary is excited to have Jessica Ineck (Jessie) as a kindergarten teacher. Jessie has been employed at Thirkill Elementary since 2020 where she was a kindergarten paraprofessional and later the school librarian. While working as a classroom paraprofessional, Jessie realized she wanted to pursue a career in education and enrolled at Western Governor University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education the spring of 2024.
Jessie was raised in Soda Springs and is a graduate of Soda Springs High School. She attended Idaho State University for one year. She met her husband, Kevin Ineck, and they were married in 2010. They are the parents of two sons, Koen and Miles.
Jessie’s hobbies include being a wife, mom, spending time with her family, riding her dirt bike in our local mountains, gardening, reading books, and spending as much time as possible in the sunshine.
Thirkill Elementary is excited to
welcome Alexa Teuscher to their staff as a 3rd grade teacher. Alexa is a native of Soda Springs where she was born and raised. She is the daughter of Jeff and Kristin Horsley of Soda Springs.
Alexa graduated from Soda Springs High School. She went on to further her education at Lewis-Clark State College where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with a minor in middle school math.
Alexa and her husband, Owen Teuscher, currently reside in Soda Springs. Alexa enjoys running, reading, and spending time with her family.
Maria James will change positions from full-time paraprofessional at Thirkill Elementary to preschool teacher. Maria grew up in Pocatello and met her husband Mark in her high school chemistry class. She furthered her education at Idaho State University where she
Sidewalk work underway in Grace
Some needed repairs to curb and gutter in Grace should be moving into the pouring phase this week, with plans to have the three total sections finished within the next week or two. Plan to park in an alternate location when visiting businesses on the strip of Main street north of the library for a little longer.
earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing.
Maria is the mother of 10-yearold Abbie and 8 eight-year-old Ally. Maria enjoys reading, gardening, camping, swimming, and riding their side-by-side with her family.
Thirkill Elementary School welcomes these new employees and looks forward to having them as part of their staff.
GRACE SCHOOL DISTRICT #148
Early Childhood Screening for Children Ages 3-5 By Appointment August - September
Screenings will be conducted in the areas of speech/ language/hearing, fine/ gross motor skills, social/ emotional development and pre-academic skills. Parents who are concerned about the development of their child between the ages of 3 and 5 are encouraged to have them screened. The screening is free of charge. Please contact Jasey Hagen at Grace Elementary, 307-680-0958, to schedule an appointment. Screenings will be conducted August- September by appointment.
Soda Springs fall sport athletes stretch out along the football field at the start of Thursday's event.
Let the games begin! Several teams begin play during the corn hole tournament.
Booster Club members put on a successful event.
Lily Davis and Ryan Carpenter were the big winners of the cornhole tournament.
Alexa Teuscher
Maria James
Jessica Ineck
Getting Cozy with Quilting in Soda Springs
Alana Burns, for the Idaho Enterprise
While living in an area with prolonged Winter weather, a few things are vital for mental and emotional survival: having a sense of community and social engagement, hobbies to entertain you when weather keeps you indoors, and things to snuggle up in to make the Winters more cozy, of course! All of these needs converge at Cozy B Quilts in Soda Springs. This locally owned and operated company celebrates 1 year in business this month and they’ve got a lot to share about this year of growth, creation and inspiration.
Cozy B Quilts was started by Melissa Thompson as a way to take back control of her own hectic and stressful life. At the time she was operating Arctic Circle and balancing many other complexities of living that come with entrepreneurship and having a large family. At this time it had been several years since she had enjoyed one of her favorite pastimes: quilting! So, enough was enough. She quickly sold Arctic Circle and closed that chapter of her life, and opened a new door to Cozy B Quilts.
This business offers many services to local residents and area travelers who have an affinity for creating beauty through artistry, cultivating friendships with others, and an interest in continual learning and growing. During the past 12 months she has quilted more than 120 quilts, taught 25-30 women how to sew, and sold products to people from as far away as Canada.
Her list of services includes: long arm quilting with precise, complex and ornate computerized patterns, a fabric shop loaded with beautiful options for all seasons and occasions, beginning to advanced/expert sewing lessons, and sewing nights where she provides free quilt patterns, as well as instructions and guidance from beginning to end. New and unique patterns are featured each month, so coming month after month always brings new opportunities and challenges. Some people are even able to begin and complete an entire project (quilt top) in a single night!
During the August sewing night last Thursday, a group of women met to work on an array of projects. Some brought in unfinished quilt tops from previous sewing nights, others came to socialize and talk about all things quilting, and some came for some therapeutic focus and quilt production.
Brandi Carrol, of Soda Springs, committed herself to completing that night’s quilt pattern and was able to proudly display her accomplishment as the evening wrapped up. Her success meets the intentions for the gatherings: providing a free opportunity for learning a new skill and socializing with other women in the community.
Ladies from as far as Bear Lake, Preston, Blackfoot and American Falls have made the journey to Cozy B Quilts to partake in the lively sewing nights, which typically go from 6-10PM. Some women come periodically and some come religiously every month.
One of the regular attendees is Kathrine Moore, of Soda Springs.She started sewing this February 2024 under the direction of Melissa Thompson's guidance, and is now working to complete her 8th quilt. “I just thought this could be a newfound hobby. I never had anyone around me quilt but was gifted a sewing machine and had the interest to learn.” After reaching out to Melissa for guidance she has been hooked ever since. Fat quarter, layer cake, charm packs, jelly roll, bolts… All of this new jargon was daunting but worthwhile for her. “The gifting of these homemade quilts has been so gratifying for me. I’ve always loved and appreciated homemade gifts, so now that I’m able to create them myself I love to share them with my friends and family! It allows me to share my new skillset, my many hours of time dedicated to making each quilt, and to show my love for those I gift them to.” The most intricate quilt she ever made was one featuring 20 unique blocks of fabric, each showing off Old Glory and the patriotic American spirit which she holds so dear. Several of her life’s interests have converged into quilting and she says she’s sticking with it for the long haul. She loves the sewing nights which allow her an opportunity to geek out about quilting with other women who love this hobby, and to learn tidbits of information and “tricks of the trade” which help her hone in on developing and improving her own skillset.
Aside from personal development, group efforts include an opportunity to contribute a unique quilt square towards the creation of an entirely donated and custom designed quilt that is raffled off at the Caribou County Fair to support the fair financially. Working together to support the commu-
nity is another positive byproduct of these gatherings.
Melissa Thompson is still actively engaged in her busy life, as most entrepreneurs are, but she chooses to keep this business on her plate for several reasons. Regarding her favorite part about this quilting adventure, she says, “The most rewarding part of the experience has been seeing beginner quilters and sewers complete their first quilt…
their sense of satisfaction and fulfillment shows on their faces and makes all of this so worth it.”
People interested in learning more about Cozy B Quilts can follow her website for monthly sewing night dates and pattern information by visiting CozyBQuilt.com. Her fabric shop and sewing nights are located in the A+ Contractors building near the Chevron gas station in Soda Springs.
Kathrine Moore standing with her American flag inspired quilt.
Nagashree Subbaraju, Secane, fail to yield or stop upon approach of emergency or police vehicle, $33.50, costs $56.50
Wei Zhou, Jioogsu, China, speeding $33.50, costs $56.50; fail to yield or stop upon approach of emergency or police vehicle, $33.50, costs $56.50
IDAHO STATE POLICE
Mason Mikie Eames, Lava Hot Springs, speeding, $33.50, costs
$56.50
Kenneth B Guillen, Rowland Heights, speeding, $33.50, costs
$56.50
Jessica Lee Rich, Pocatello, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Cole Richard Smith, Bountiful, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Zou Zixi, China, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
• “I used double-faced tape to stick a couple of clothespins inside the cabinet under my sink. I can hang my gloves under the sink when I am finished with the dishes.” — T.C. in Minnesota
• Help nylons and tights retain elasticity by giving them a final rinse in diluted vinegar before hanging dry. Never add nylons to a heat dryer.
• “I purchase extra school supplies when back-to-school time brings the sales. Inevitably, we need extras as the school year wears on, and these items can be pricier later.” — Y.C. in Alabama
• “A tip for setting your table: Always put pretty plastic placemats on the table first. Then your pretty cloth napkins and placemats over these. When you’re ready to eat, just remove cloth placemats and napkins and you’ll still have a pretty table to serve your guests.” — J.R. in Virginia
• Ease the weekday morning time crunch by planning your wardrobe on the weekends. Use a single hanger to gather everything you need for a smart, pulled-together look. Attach a plastic sandwich bag with accessories to the hanger with a clothespin, and you’ll be dressed in minutes.
• If your bananas start to brown on the outside, put them in the fridge. They will still get brown, but the inside stays firm instead of getting mushy.
Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
Inc.
EVENT CALENDARS
SODA SPRINGS/ CARIBOU COUNTY
August 22 – Thursday
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
IDAN-HA Movie School Pictures
VB YEA Varsity Jamboree
August 23 – Friday
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Bridge @ The Senior Center
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAN-HA Movie
FB w/American Falls
August 24 – Saturday
IDAN-HA Movie
August 25 – Sunday
Presbyterian Services
Caribou Bible Church Services
Catholic Mass (8:30am)
Open Arms Church Services
LDS Services
Hope Lutheran Church
August 26 – Monday
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
Commissioner Meeting (9am)
August 28 – 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
FB w/Malad (TMS)
VB @ American Falls (TMS) VB w/Logan
August 29 – Thursday
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
IDAN-HA Movie
VB @ Aberdeen (TMS)
XC @ Star Valley GRACE
August 22 – Thursday
NHS Inauguration
August 23 – Friday
FB w/Oakley
August 25 – Sunday
LDS Services
August 26 – Monday
Preschool Story Hour @ Library 10:30am
August 28 – Wednesday
VB Tri-Match @ Preston w/West Side
JH VB @ Aberdeen w/Malad
JH FB w/Bear Lake
August 29 – Thursday
XC @ Malad
JH VB @ MV w/West Side
BANCROFT
August 25 – Sunday
LDS Services
August 26 – Monday Homecoming Week
Booster Club Meeting (6:30pm)
August 28 – Wednesday
Individual & Fall Sports Pictures
MS FB @ Mackay MS VB w/Clark
August 29 – Thursday VB w/Challis
ON THIS DAY
1826 Colonies under Jedediah Strong Smith move near Salt Lake Utah
1864 First Geneva Convention adopted in Geneva "for the Amelioration of the condition of the Wounded in Armies in the Field" signed by 12 nations
1865 William Sheppard is issued the first U.S. patent for liquid soap
1901 Cadillac Motor Company is founded
1902 U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt becomes first U.S. chief executive to ride in a car
1950 First patent for controlling vehicle speed (cruise control) granted to American inventor Ralph Teetor
1984 Last Volkswagen Rabbit produced
1986 "Stand By Me" film based on the novella by Stephen King, directed by Rob Reiner and starring Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O'Connell is released
1989 First complete ring around Neptune discovered
1994 DNA testing links O.J. Simpson to murder of Nicole Simpson & Ron Goldman
2018 Discovery of a bone of a 90,000 hybrid human, half Neanderthal, half Denisovan from Anuy River, Siberia published in "Nature"
2022 "House of the Dragon", prequel to "Game of Thrones" premieres on HBO, starring Paddy Considine, Matt Smith and Emma D'Arcy
Spaghetti, Breadstick, Food Choice – Green Salad or Pears
Every meal served with Juice/Milk/ Coffee Aug. 23 - Roast Beef w/Mashed Potatoes, California Veggies, Apricots, Wheat Bread Aug. 28 - BBQ Pork Ribs, Baked Beans, Cauliflower, Sourdough Bread, Peaches & Cream
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
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
The Soda Springs city council and mayor were given n update on the third well drilled at Formation Springs in an effort to intercept the flowing spring water underground to avoid having to do more expensive methods to cover or treat the water chemically to avoid any potential contamination. City Director Alan Skinner said 450 gallons a minute of water was able to be obtained at 220 feet depth, which was the same amount as the first well. Skinner noted that the city needs about 1,200 to 1,500 gallons a minutes of water to cover demand, and will be looking at alternatives, including pumping two wells, and other more expensive alternatives such as covering the spring or treating the water.
Vaughan Smith Construction was awarded the bid to rehabilitate the Lover’s Delight Bridge over Soda Creek. Access is currently blocked to one residence, but the project was imminent.
Two hours before the Grace Concert in the Park was scheduled to being, a summer storm moved in and brought a deluge of hail and rain. The committee waited for the storm to pass through, but ultimately the concert had to be rescheduled. The make-up concert raised a total of $1,057 was raised for repairs and upgrades to the Legion Hut, which is most especially in need of a new heating and cooling system.
A survey conducted by Intermountain Gas found that 42 percent of homeowners who plan to dig this year for projects like landscaping, installing a fence or mailbox, or building a deck, pond, or patio will put themselves and communities at risk by not calling 811 to local underground utilities. Digging without being aware of such utilities can result in serious injuries, death, disruptions in service, and costly repairs.
10 Years ago, 2014
Senator Mike Crapo discussed some of the federal Farm Bill programs which were intended to help livestock producers recover from losses resulting from the reintroduction of wolves. There were estimated to be a total of 659 wolves in Idaho at the end of 2013, although it was understood that there were likely many which had not been counted. Sheep and cattle losses had been confirmed in many of the hundreds of calls throughout the year of wolves encroaching into livestock areas. The 2014 Farm Bill made the Livestock Indemnity Program and Livestock Forage Disaster Program permanent, and retroactive to 2011.
Jason Christensen of Soda Springs scored a double eagle on Hole #8, a 450-yard par 5 at Caribou Highlands Golf Course while playing with his family at a reunion. Double eagles are rarer than holes-in-one, and luckily the feat was witnessed by eight family members of unimpeachable character. The double eagle refers to a score three under par on any given hole. In Jason’s case, he scored a 2 on a 5 par hole. There were only four double eagles on the PGA tour in all of 2012, for context. The odds of such a feat were calculated at roughly one in a million.
Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter signed a proclamation recognizing August as National Immunization Awareness Month. “Vaccine are a proven way to help keep our children from getting sick. I want to commend the March of Dimes and other organizations across the state for bringing attention to this very important issue.” Idaho has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the country, according to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and there have already been 240 cases of whooping cough in 2014, double the number the previous year.
Mill Iron S Ranch will be hosting a Cattle Dog Trial at the rodeo arena in Lava Hot Springs. The trial will showcase working cattle dogs of all
breeds maneuvering cattle through different obstacles. The handlers will work their dogs from horseback with either voice commands or whistles.
Deseret Industries donation pods will be removed from the parking lot of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building. The pods have been at the Bailey Creek Church parking lot for many years and have been a well-known, reliable location for item donations. In the future, the Soda Springs stake will hold quarterly DI drives during which the pods will again be available for people to drop off items.
Lt. Reggie Scheierman retired from the Soda Springs Police Department after 33 years of service to the citizens of Soda Springs. Lt. Scheierman was instrumental in writing grants for the Department of Transportation to get radar units for almost all the patrol units. He also worked part-time for many years as the Animal Control Officer. Reggie and his wife Renee will continue to live in Soda Springs for the time being. They are the parents of two sons, Tyler and Cody.
15 Years ago, 2009
The Highlander hoofbeats took third place at the Idaho State Riding Association’s state meet. The ISRA meet was held Aug. 11 in Rexburg. Rita McEwen took 1st place in the open pleasure. The team includes: Rita McEwen, Marie Miller, Angie Bower, Julie Hook, Betty Maxwell, Dawn Perkins, Lori Kingston, Kystal Sechser, Janis Ozburn, and Colleen Price.
Nine teams participated in the annual Senior Center Golf Scramble. No one went home with the “Hole in One” car, furnished by Todd Hunzeker Chevrolet and Ford.
Larren and Judy Nelson were recognized by the Chesterfield Foundation Board with a special plaque for their five summers of work at the Chesterfield Town Site. Larren spent a lot of time working to restore the Holbrook Barlow Brick Store when he wasn’t supervising the grounds. This was truly a labor of love, as Larren really enjoys working with wood. His restoration of the bean counter there is amazing. Judy put life into the log store, or as Craig Nickish calls it, “Judy’s Emporium.” She turned it into a store that would have been there in 1915 where old fashioned sodas are available, candies that would have been there in that period and things you just can’t seem to find anywhere else. Judy has also been the driving force behind the summer concert series in Chesterfield, and also the Chesterfield Historic Cookbook. The Nelsons will be missed in the coming seasons.
Eighteen head of cattle may have died from high levels of selenium at an old phosphate mine site at Lanes Creek, northeast of Soda Springs. Although the investigation is preliminary and ongoing, the aster flower is suspected as the plant eaten by the cattle that is most likely to have high selenium levels, resulting the in their deaths, according to sources.
The staff at Spring Creek Manor hosted a special birthday party for six residents. Originally celebrated once a yar for all residents’ birthdays, the plan now is to hold a party each month when there are birthdays.
25 Years ago, 1999
Dave Tingey of Grace received word in July at an annual meeting and dinner held in Mud Lake that he was to receive the Poet of the Year Award from the Christian Cowboy Poets and Musicians Association. Tingey performs at approximately 50 events each year where he entertains with his poetry.
Julie Reno of Grace has been hired by the Grace School District as the new hot lunch supervisor at the high school. She has accepter the position which was vacated by Lenae Manhart, who left to take a teaching position in the elementary school. Julie has previously been employed at Turner Café, Maxis, and Spring Creek Manor as a cook and head of the kitchen.
Deirdre Spencer, 17, Afton, Wy-
oming, will reign as queen of the 23rd Annual Grays Lake Rodeo. Deirdre is the daughter of Paul and Vera Spencer. She says she has been riding all her life and lives in a family where rodeo is a family activity. Her grandfather clowned for rodeos, her father roped and rode saddle broncs, and her mother barrel raced. She is presently working on learning to team rope.
A stretch of the Bear Rover running through Black Canyon near Grace has been posted with a 45 mph speed sign. To whom or what it applies is unknown, except to the prankster who took the time and energy to place it in the river.
Mary Ann Johnson recently completed 30 weeks of student teaching at the Burgoyne School of Music. Supervised by Kathleen Campbell, she will be accepting beginning violin students this fall. Mary Ann is a student of the violin and viola. She has performed fiddle as well as classical selections at several occasions this summer. Also, last <ay she was awarded the Patricia Sorensen Memorial Award, which means that she achieved more points than any other student during the school year.
Shirley Murdock won $1,199 at the Lava Lions Bingo recently, and was presented a check by Lions Chip Buss and Fred Hinz. Bingo is played three times weekly at the Blue Moon in Lava Hot Springs.
40 Years ago, 1984
State revenues are running slightly ahead of expectations in the beginning of the 1984-1985 fiscal year, but Governor John Evans cautions against over optimism. Because of an anticipated shortfall in revenues on which the 1984 Legislature based its appropriations, Evans has ordered a 3 percent holdback in spending for the current fiscal year. If revenue continues to exceed expectations, the holdback could be reduced or cancelled later. But Evans, speaking at a Rotary Club of Boise meeting, urged caution in light of “current concerns regarding real interest rates and their impact on Idaho’s economy...The tight money policy of the Federal Reserve Board and high interest rates, aggravated by the massive and uncontrolled federal deficit, have resulted in a crisis situation for Idaho farmers.”
Grace and North Gem FFA Chapter members were big winners at this year’s Caribou County Fair. Blair Mickelson, Shawn Del Mickelson, Shawn Bowles, Phillip Christensen, Don Argyle, Blair Mathews, Eric Nostrum, Karlene Stevens, Troy Peterson, Dub Hatch, Derek Moser, Shauna McLain all earned multiple blue ribbons. Halters were given by the Caribou Holstein Friesian Association to 1981 Blair Mickelson, 1982 John Tingey, 1983 Phillip Christensen, 1984 Shawn Del Mickelson.
Quick action by local EMT President Ric Anderson and an alert Life Flight crew helped reduce serious injuries and probably saved the life of at least one person in a rollover near Raft River over the weekend. Anderson said he happened on to the scene immediately after the accident. By coincidence, a Life Flight helicopter from Pocatello was enroute to Burley to make a non-critical transfer when they saw the accident and landed. An Idaho State Police officer also arrived at the accident at the same time. Anderson said there was one fatality and the other two persons were in critical condition. The Burley ambulance was dispatched, and he assisted the Life Flight paramedic team in stabilizing the victims prior to transporting to the hospital.
Relatives from Salt Lake City McCammon, and other places met to congratulate Nellie V. Johnson on her 85th birthday which was Aug 9. Johnson was born in 1899 in Smithfield, Utah. Nellie is known for her long years as a news gatherer. It was symbolic that she scooped the whole town when World War I ended, when as a telephone operator she received the news of the Armistice first. She rang all the phones at once and spread the news after midnight. Getting the news and passing it on is one of her life’s ambitions. She has also served in every public service
organization found in Grace. From the Legion Auxiliary to the Grace Literary Club, most offices in her church, and almost anything else you can think of.
Gary Gier and sons Paul and Mark returned home from an independent camping expedition through Southern Mexico to the southern end of the Yucatan Penninsula. The three men left home June 18 with their main intent to collect insects and photograph them. Highlights included exploring the ancient Mayan ruins in Mexico and the caves and temples off the beaten track in the jungles. The went to the Caribbean coast and swam offshore on a coral reef, saw a lot of wildlife and met many nice people in the outlying area who were very patient with their poor Spanish. They brought home 22 rolls of film and a lot of excellent specimens to add to Gary’s collection of insects, probably the most successful trip yet in that regard.
55 Years ago, 1969
The Grace Red Devils head in the 1969 gridiron season next week. Coaches Nelson and Moffitt will lead them into their first game at Grace against American Falls. Some veterans back from last year’s team are: Clause Peterson, Jeff Hill, John Anderson, and Ed Taylor. New members on the team include Brock Hurt, Bruce Campbell, Kip Panter, and Jim Hubbard.
Not all of Idaho’s big game animals are bagged by hunters with guns. A fine animal was taken by a longbow this last year. Archer Ray Torrey bagged a goat in the general archery hunt unit 30. According to the Idaho Fish and Game Department, there are three game management units open this year for general archery hunts for mountain goat. In addition to getting the goat, Torrey also bagged an elk and moose with his longbow.
The second all-Idaho Marine Platoon left Boise for training at Sand Diego, California training base Saturday. Among the 76 recruits, all residents of Idaho, were the following from Soda Springs: Thayne Gentry, Bob Hemmert, and Rob Crawford. The recruits arrives in Boise early Thursday morning to prepare for a parade and Enlistment Ceremony.
The appointment of J. Wayne Burkhardt as district range manager for the Idaho Dept. of Public Lands was announced recently by Lou Benedick, area administrator. Benedick said Burkhardt will supervise the inventory and classification of state lands within the Eastern Idaho area. He will also be responsible for the over-all range resource management and work directly with the state land grazing lessees to provide technical range knowledge and instruction in management planning.
Sgt. Joel W. Bowen left for Thailand where he will be stationed for a year at a U.S. Air Force base. Sgt. Bowen enlisted in the Air Force Reserve in October, 1966, and was called to active duty in January, 1967.
IDAN-HA THEATRE
-INDOOR-
Thursday, August 22 Friday, August 23 Saturday, August 24
Deadpool and Wolverine (R) Deadpool's peaceful existence comes crashing down when the Time Variance Authority recruits him to help safeguard the multiverse. He soon unites with his would-be pal, Wolverine, to complete the mission and save his world from an existential threat.
Friday & Saturday
6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Saturday Matinee 2:00 p.m. (All seats $5) Wednesday, August 28 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. (All seats $5) 208-547-3282
File No.: 667260 / Customer Ref No. Young/Tin Cup Development
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE
On Friday, December 6, 2024 at the hour of 10:30AM, of said day, in the office of Alliance Title & Escrow, LLC located at 71 E 1st S, Soda Springs, ID 83276,
Alliance Title & Escrow, LLC, as trustee, will sell at public auction, to the highest bidder, for cashiers check, certified check or tellers check, from a bank which has a branch in the community at the site of the sale (endorsed checks will not be accepted), State of Idaho check or local government check in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the same time of sale, the following described real property, situated in the County of Caribou, State of Idaho, and described as follows, to wit: Lot 34, Block 2, Grouse Creek Ranch Subdivision Third Amended Final Plat, according to the official plat thereof, recorded in the office of the County Recorder of Caribou County, Idaho, under recorder's Instrument No. 193440
THE TRUSTEE HAS NO KNOWLEDGE OF A MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIPTION OF THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED REAL PROPERTY, BUT FOR PURPOSES OF COMPLIANCE WITH IDAHO CODE, SECTION 60-113, THE TRUSTEE HAS BEEN INFORMED THAT THE STREET ADDRESS OF: NNA Bareground, Freedom, ID 83120, MAY SOMETIMES BE ASSOCIATED WITH SAID REAL PROPERTY. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THE EXACT LOCATION OF SUBJECT PROPERTY, PLEASE CONTACT ALLIANCE TITLE & ESCROW, LLC AT (208) 287-5108.
Said sale will be made without covenant or warranty regarding title, possession or encumbrances to satisfy the obligation secured by and pursuant to the power of sale conferred in the deed of trust executed by Brett R Young, an unmarried man, as Grantor to Alliance Title & Escrow, LLC, as Trustee, for the benefit and security of Tin Cup Development Corporation, as Beneficiary, recorded April 20, 2022 as Instrument No. 209425, Mortgage records of Caribou County, Idaho. THE ABOVE GRANTORS ARE NAMED TO COMPLY WITH SECTION 45-1506(4)(a), IDAHO CODE. NO REPRESENTATION IS MADE THAT THEY ARE, OR ARE NOT, PRESENTLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS OBLIGATION.
Said sale is a public auction for which the bid price must be paid immediately upon close of bidding by certified funds in the acceptable forms stated above. If the acting Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason whatsoever, the successful bidder’s exclusive and sole remedy shall be the return of actual monies paid to the acting Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse.
The default for which this sale is to be made is failure to:
1. Make principal and interest payments as set forth on said Deed of Trust and Promissory Note. The original loan amount was $103,200.00 together with interest thereon at the rate of 8% per annum, as evidenced in Promissory Note dated April 20, 2022. Payments are in default for the months of February 2024 through and including June 2024 in the amount of $871.21 per month and continuing each and every month thereafter until date of sale or reinstatement.
2. Pay, when due and before delinquency, the real property taxes for 2022 and 2023, plus penalties and interest.
The principal balance as of July 1, 2024 is $101,817.09 together with accrued and accruing interest thereon at the rate of 8% per annum. The per diem is $22.3161. In addition to the above, there is also due any real property taxes that may become delinquent during this foreclosure; together with any late charges, advances, escrow collection fees, attorney fees, fees or costs associated with this foreclosure.
The balance owing as of this date on the obligation secured by said deed of trust is $101,817.09, excluding interest, costs and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the obligations thereunder or in this sale, as trustee’s fees and/or reasonable attorney’s fees as authorized in the promissory note secured by the aforementioned Deed of Trust.
Dated: August 6, 2024 Alliance Title & Escrow, LLC
By:
Bobbi Dilley, Trust Officer Phone: (208) 287-5108
This communication is on behalf of a debt collector and is an attempt to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
#1023-8-15-22-29-9-5-24-T4
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE VACANCY
Due to the resignation of Trustee Alan Erickson, from Zone 2, on the evening of June 19, 2024 the Board of Trustees of Soda Springs Jt. School District declared a vacancy for Zone 2 on July 23, 2024 and is commencing the process to fill this vacancy.
• The individual selected to fill this term will serve the balance of the unexpired term, currently ending on December 31, 2027.
The Board of Trustees has a period of 90 days from the declaration of the vacancy to fill this position with a qualified individual who resides within Zone 2. If this does not occur, the Board may appoint a person at-large from within the boundaries of the school district. Otherwise, after 120 days, the appointment shall be made by the board of the county commissioners.
The process that will be utilized by the Board of Trustees to fill this vacancy shall be: The Board will be taking applications for review and then conducting interviews or some other process.
#1026-8-15-22-24-T2
PUBLIC NOTICE 2025 Proposed Fiscal Year Budget (2024)-(2025) NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Fairview Cemetery District of Caribou County, Idaho will meet on August 15, 2024, at the hour of 6:00 p.m. in the Cemetery Office, at 142 South Main, Soda Springs, Idaho, for the purpose of considering and fixing a final budget and making appropriations to fund the Maintenance and Operation budget for the next fiscal year, at which time any taxpayer may appear and be heard upon any part or parts of the said tentative budget; and that the following table sets for the amount to be appropriated to Maintenance and Operations for the next fiscal year, together with the amount expended for "Maintenance and Operation" during the fiscal year of October, 2024 and September, 2025 by said department(s), to-wit: The proposed Budget is based on the Analysis of anticipated Revenue as is reflected in the following schedule:
Est. Rev. from Fund Approved Budget Cash Bal. Fwd. Prop. Tax M&O $167,375
A Fair Value
Allison Eliason
Just as quickly as it came, the 2024 County Fair has suddenly gone. In a single week, youth from all around the valley presented, exhibited, showed, and displayed their various projects that have ranged from coffee cakes to market pigs. Filling the barns and the exhibit building, they showcased the hard work they have dedicated so much time to. Some might ask, is it worth it?
As a mom and as a leader, I can tell you without a doubt that helping youth participate in the 4H program takes diligence, commitment and a lot of patience. There are hours spent on every project whether it is carefully constructing a rocket just right or feeding out a steer for 5+ months. And not all of those hours are happy hours. With projects that are meant to be challenging, there are so many moments that are hard and even feel impossible to work through. It all begs the question again, is it worth it?
I can’t answer that question for everyone and maybe I shouldn’t try to answer it the week after fair. But I can tell you that if all you are working towards is a final ribbon, a final premium, or a final check then it probably will never be worth it. There are easier ways to make a dollar or have someone tell you that you make good cookies. You can collect a pile of ribbons much faster by ordering them on Amazon than working to earn them one at a time.
If participating in the county fair is about learning something new, taking on challenging projects, and experiencing life lessons, then the fair will always be worth it, regardless of the outcome. The participating youth usually say they do it because it’s fun or because they want to make some money, but nine times out of ten, those kids have parents that are looking for something so much more.
I can’t count the number of times that my kids have said they wanted to just quit their
projects. There comes a point in all of their projects that it just seems too hard, it isn’t fun or there is something far better they could be doing with their time. It’s hard to see the growth and progress when it comes incrementally and when they can’t see it, their efforts hardly seem worth the work. But then the day comes when they are ready to present their final projects and they do it with excitement and pride for what they have done.
By no means was our 4H experience perfect this year. We got poorer ribbons on some projects than we had hoped for and heard some criticism that was tough to take. But my kids did some of their best work along the way to the show ring and the exhibit hall. Winning the top spot would have been an incredible accomplishment, but I feel like a winner when I see the growth my kids have had as they raised their animals and made their home good projects from scratch.
Now don’t get me wrong, I’m as competitive as any and we play to win. But when asked if all the hard work is worth it, the ribbons and the placing have nothing to do with my answer. Is it worth it to have a single judge give their opinion after just a few minutes of looking over my kid’s work and critiquing everything that they see? It is because along the way, my kids have had experiences that have taught them resilience, courage, commitment, responsibility, sacrifice, and dedication.
Is the time, energy, and exhaustion spent on fair worth it? Are the many months of training, learning and practicing worth the few minutes in the arena? You bet your boots they are, at least to this momma.
The ribbons will get dusty and fade and the money will be spent far too quickly, but the confidence and sense of accomplishment will never go away. The knowledge that they didn’t back down from a challenge will always be there that they can tap into the next time life is hard for them.
Bancroft City Council Report
This report is adapted from the official minutes recorded by City Clerk Debbie Swensen, which were officially approved on August 8.
After the acceptance of the minutes and agenda, the regular council meeting began.
Rezone
Brandon Wistisen submitted an application to rezone a portion of his land from Industrial to Agricultural. The council has met several times to discuss the rezone and answer questions. A public hearing as held to hear public comments. There were no concerns raised by the council or members of the public. The rezone was approved unanimously.
Resolution 24-02
A resolution to set the Business License fees was read into the record and approved by the council.
Building Permits
A number of building permits were issued:
Duard Christensen’s Shed was approved contingent on a follow-up of setbacks.
Nissel Baker’s fence permit was approved upon inspection by Mayor Spencer to verify setbacks.
Ceral Bi-Products’ application for a platform was approved after having been determined to meet city code and compliance issues.
Roxie Holsten’s Fence permit was approved after a detailed discussion. The resident has requested special permission to build six-foot fences instead of the four-foot fences required by the city code. The resident stated that their dog is jumping over the four-foot fences. Council discussed the code enforcement issues and accusations that may arise if they allow some citizens to be granted special permissions or privileges. Council agree that they need to treat all residents the same and stay consistent with code setbacks. A motion to approve the permit contingent on the reversion to four-foot fences was passed.
Council and Staff Reports
Maintenance worker Casey Moreland would like to get a bid on replacing the conduit and wiring at the Teuscher Square and putting in outlets for power at Memorial Park. A motion to pursue bids for the projects was approved.
Moreland also asked whether the city would purchase a grass bagger for the big Dixon Lawnmower. Moreland informed the council that the cost would be just under $8,000. Council would like to table the topic and get more pricing information.
Council asked whether Maintenance had received a quote on fencing materials for the park fence. Maintenance asked for clarification about the type of fencing the council was seeking, which was determined to be a six foot privacy wood fence in either panels or slats. The fence would go from the steel post to the city property line along the street stretch.
Councilmember Jessica Vawser stated that she would like to get the second violation letters sent out. She was specifically concerned about deep
holes around the Conex storage containers in the alleyway behind the greenhouse and Lion’s Club. An animal fell in the hole and couldn’t get out, so the situation clearly presents a potential hazard to children.
Councilmember Vawser also asked whether the city has done anything about getting sod for the areas along the sidewalks. Mayor Spencer suggested that the city go out when sod is being cut, and secure the scraps which are otherwise disposed of. Councilmember Vawser asked whether that might be something the missionaries could do.
Councilmember Vawser inquired of Clerk Swensen whether residents were paying their utility bills. Swensen stated that overall residents are doing a good job of keeping their accounts current.
Councilmember Vawser and Mayor Spencer would like code enforcement to serve the next citation for a fine to a resident that is refusing to pay dog fees.
Councilmember Vawser would like the city to get the weeds on Main Street removed and all city owned properties cleaned up in preparation for the 24th parade.
Council asked why the sprinklers came on during the night while people were camping in tents at the park. Maintenance informed council that there were issues with the time clock. Council asked whether the problem has been fixed, and authorized maintenance to purchase items necessary for repairs.
Mayor Spencer informed the council that he met with the city engineer and Ted Hendricks, who writes grants for cities and is paid by a percentage of the received grant money or project cost.
The engineers informed the mayor that if the city plans to get grants for the sewer project, they will most likely be expected to have increased utility rates showing the intent and need for funding. The engineer explained that smaller towns like Bancroft have a bigger financial challenge due to having fewer utility users and not having the ability to spread out the cost when being mandated to do large costly projects like lining the sewer ponds.
The engineers explained that in order for the city to be considered for a grant they will be required to prove household income which will require a door-to-door income survey to be completed.
SICOG has been meeting with the clerk and has agreed to come in and help with the survey in the next couple months. If SICOG doesn’t end up doing the survey, the engineers have recommended Ted Hendricks. Ted does have an initial start-up fee ranging from between $10,000 and $17,000. The city will ultimately end up having a bond for some of the pond lining cost. Council discussed legal rate increase during the budget and possibly holding a hearing to substantially increase sewer revenues for the large project preparation. Council would like to have SICOG perform the income survey if they are willing to do so.
A Cruise for Krew
continued from front page
whole community behind him.”
Degan Stoor presented Krew with a number of gifts on behalf of the student council, including a Lego Camaro set that lit his eyes as soon as he saw it.
Later, he made his way down to the bake sale to get a picture with the Cheer team. His sister Brynlee teased him that she hasn’t seen him blush like that in a while.
Brynlee attends Soda Springs High School, and she expressed the feelings of a lot of those who stopped to chat in saying, “It’s really amazing how this community—everyone— is coming together for this. I go to school in Soda, and Krew is in Grace, but people all around the area have really done a lot for him, and it’s cool to see.”
As the cruise continued, Krew took a few trips around the cruise, first in the restored classic 1953 pickup driven by Dan Squires (allegedly rescued from a storage shed in Inkom), and then in a 67 Pontiac Firebird driven by Danny Rasmussen.
Krew’s dad Kevin piloted a drone over the cruise as it made its way down the road and headed back. “This is awesome,” he said, as his monitor tracked the line of cars heading down the highway to turn around and come back through the lot.
Asked about his favorite part of the evening, Krew responded, “Getting to ride in the second car [the Fire-
bird]…I liked how it revved and how fast we went.” How fast did he think they went? “I don’t know…we went fast!”
Krew’s smile was infectious throughout the cruise, and his excitement at cars out in the lineup was palpable. Asked what he would tell people involved in recent events in his behalf, he said “I would like to thank them.”
He is currently doing home school until his treatments allow him to return to school. “I’ve been able to get my work done, probably faster than a school day,” he says, slyly. But unlike a lot of kids, he would like to go back to school. “I’m hoping to get my levels up so I can start phase 2,” he said.
While facing something as serious as cancer is obviously daunting, it can only be done one moment at a time, and some days are better than others. Every day is a little easier, though, when a whole community is on board to help.
SSHS Student Council for 2024 is composed of: Degan Stoor (President), Ellie Wood (VP), Gracie Moldenhauer(secretary), Mylee White (team leader), Gage Peck(public relations). Seniors: Rachel Hansen, Rebekah Evans, Colton Crawford. Juniors: Courtnee Gronning, Gimi Sama, Macie Hansen. Sophomores: Landon Moldenhauer, Penny Fullmer. Freshman: Guy Harris, Taylie Brewer, Kinzley Mumford. Advisor: Sherlene Kirby.
CARIBOU COUNTY OBITUARY SUBMISSION INFO
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
OBITUARY
James William Gorton
February 19, 1953 – August 16, 2024
James (Jim) William Gorton passed away beyond the veil to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and his sweetheart, Stephanie and loved ones who have passed on before. He passed away Friday, August 16, 2024, after a long fight with Mesothelioma Cancer. Jim was blessed with goodly parents, William (Bill) and Marlene Cooley Gorton February 19, 1953, in Soda Springs, ID. His brother, Jerry Gorton came two years later. Jim attended Soda Springs Schools, LDS Business College and Brigham Young University-Provo. Jim met his sweetheart, Stephanie while attending LDS Business College. It was there he became engaged. Jim received his endowments, March 16, 1971, and Stephanie received her endowment March 18, 1971. Going to the Temple was a weekly date night. It was a cheap date night, but no greater experience together. We were both 18 and was married in the Salt Lake Temple, July 9, 1971, to start their eternal family. Jim had a personal testimony of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and of the Father in Heaven. He had many spiritual callings in the church. He was an ordination worker in the Jordon River Temple. He was Seventy President, Ward Mission Leader in four different wards, counselor in the Stake Mission Presidency, Elders Quorum President, Bishopric 2nd Counselor, High Priest Leadership in many wards and Executive Secretary and Ward Clerk. He cherished all his callings and felt very humbled by each calling. He had a love for all people. He loved providing service with the people he came in contact with wherever he was at work or church or his neighborhood.
In Jim’s early years he worked vacation relief for Monsanto, Becker Industries, and Simplot in Warehouse Accounting. He began his career after school with Mountain Fuel/Questar Gas Company in Salt Lake City, UT. He started as an accounting clerk and worked his way to credit coordinator. He loved his time at Mountain Fuel/ Questar Gas and loved going to work each day. He volunteered with the
company’s different sponsor of delivery Meals on Wheel, Ronald McDonald’s House and Salvation Army bell ringer at Christmas. He kept in contact with many he worked with to his death. He retired May 1, 2008, after 28 years of service. Wonderful and caring people there, like family. Jim and Stephanie were blessed with three sons and one daughter, William James (Jody), Evanston, WY, David Jay Gorton, Soda Springs, ID, Michelle Gorton Gambles (Rich), Soda Springs, ID and Nathan Kaye Gorton (deceased). Three special granddaughters and one grandson. Courtney Green and Sierra Green, Seattle, WA, Kayla Green, Boise, ID and Ncholas Diego Gorton, Midvale, UT. Jim loved his family and was constantly planning vacations and outings in their RV, Road Trips and picnics.
Raising his eternal family with his eternal companion, Stephanie was the happiest times of his life, taking them to church each Sunday and teaching them of Jesus Christ.
Preceded in death was his Sweetheart Stephanie, one son, Nathan Kaye, parents, Bill and Marlene Gorton, brother, Jerry Gorton and Stephanie’s parents, KE and Retta Shelton. Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Hooper LDS church, with a viewing prior from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
City of Soda Springs Recognized with City Achievement Award
The Association of Idaho Cities recently recognized The City of Soda Springs with a Garret Nancolas City Achievement Award at the June 20 awards banquet during the 77th Association of Idaho Cities Annual Conference in Boise, June 19-21, 2024. According to the AIC “Creativity, innovation, and solutions-oriented leadership define Idaho city officials. The Garret Nancolas City Achievement Awards recognize the work of cities around Idaho that have implemented pioneering approaches to improve quality of life, address community challenges, and enhance service delivery in cost-effective ways. This year, awards were given in six categories: Community Engagement, Economic & Community Development, Parks & Recreation, Public Safety, Public Works & Transportation, and Youth Council.
The City of Soda Springs was recog-
nized with a City Achievement Award in the Public Works & Transportation Category for its Hydro Plant Rebuild project. Originally constructed in 1955, the hydro plant is just downstream from Soda Springs’ Hooper Park and uses water from the Farmers Land and Irrigation storage reservoir to feed the turbine. The project included casting a copy of the turbine impeller, rewinding the generator, and replacing all the switchgear, and now the unit produces 1.1 million kWh of power annually.”
The award is a testament to the kinds of problem-solving and ingenuity that cities often employ to maximize the resources that they have, and improve the efficiency of their infrastructure.
AIC is an organization that dates back to 1947, and works with cities in a nonprofit capacity to provide education, training, and technical assistance to expand and deepen the abilities of city elected officials and their staffs.
James William Gorton
Councilmembers Ryan Carpenter and Rod Worthington; City Director Alan Skinner; Mayor Austin Robinson; Councilmember Paul Gritton; Council President Mitch Hart.
Krew celebrates a ride in Danny Rasmussen's 67 Firebird.
Krew poses with members of SSHS Cheer during the Cruise. His siblings attend school in Soda.
Caribou’s Got Talent
One of the best ways to spend time under the tent out of the shade during the hottest part of the day was at Caribou’s Got Talent, which lived up to its name. A senior project for Aleaha Medina, CGT showcased the talents of many participants from around Caribou County—in
music, dance, and “other.”
Judges for the event were Daphney Medina, Lacie Thomas, and Makenzie Ogden.
Although everyone was a blast to watch throughout the afternoon, at the end of the day the judges had to make a call, and they selected
Idaho Code Says:
Main Street Dance as first place in the youngest division, with Divine Dance a close second. In the intermediate division, Holland Williams took first, followed by Harleigh, Kennedy & Makayla, and Chloe. In the oldest division, Rahel took first, followed by Hank Thomas, Aleaha, Trinity, Isaiah, and Lexi. Last names were kept out to protect the innocent…and because I did not get them at the time. But we’ll go with the more responsible sounding explanation… Congratulations to all the talented Caribou residents!
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.
There were many other events during the fair week that we have not been able to fit in our pages yet but we will as we move forward Pictured here is an image from the kids parade featuring Alexis Carroll and Alyson Reed.
The senior category was packed with talent.
Judges Daphney Medina, LAcie Thomas, and Makenzie Ogden hard at work tabulating.
Main Street Dance took the prize in the youngest category.
The intermediate Talent category winners.
WHAT’S UP REC??
Nikki Hansen, City Recreation Direction
With a new school year upon us and excitement for school sports returning, it is a great opportunity for an update from the City of Soda Springs Recreation Department! 2024 has brought a lot of changes to the recreation programs in Soda Springs, and it is time to fill in the community on what is going on! I was hired on May 6 to take over as the full time Recreation Director. I grew up in Soda Springs and am excited to help restore and grow our recreation department to activities beyond just youth sports. I have spent the last 26 years gaining experience in a variety of settings to be able to help bring the recreation department into a new generation of activities for all ages. I completed my Bachelor of Science degree at Utah State University in Physical Education and History, and still maintain a teaching certificate through the State of Idaho for both endorsements. I completed a Master of Education at Utah State in Physical Education and Sport, with an emphasis on sports performance and conditioning, and am in the final year of my PhD program at Idaho State University in Rehabiltiation and Health Science – emphasizing prehabilitation and motor learning in youth. It is great to be able to return and help the future generations be able to learn great life lessons through activities in Soda Springs, and I am thankful to be home!
Changes are an essential part of growth and life. We are making changes to help create environments to make our recreation programs fun for all ages and talent levels. We are moving our recreation schedule around to provide more opportunities for the youth and hope to be able to extend the age range for our activities as well. Our biggest change is returning weekends to the parents to choose how to spend them! All our recreation programs will take place during the week to allow for parents to have more flexibility in weekend options. For our youth athletes that choose to play in travel weekend leagues, this change helps facilitate both recreation opportunities and advanced games as well. Most notable is moving volleyball to the spring. This will give our department the ability to open registration up to middle school
by Jody Reeves
athletes and coincide with the traditional club volleyball season which will give our athletes more opportunities to play. Our intention is not to make athletes choose between volleyball and track, but in the past, they have had to choose between volleyball and soccer/ flag football. With our new calendar, we are not overlapping recreation sport offerings to allow the youth to play as many as possible and get the body development through different sports. After doing an internal audit of what has happened in the past in the recreation department, it was important to make changes. Due to recent comments made on social media by individuals outside of Soda Springs, I would like to fully explain the why behind our changes so that the community is aware of what is going on! In Soda Springs, we are averaging between 20-25% of our youth participating in activities sponsored by the recreation department. It is impacting our school sports as the number of students wanting to participate at those levels is low. It is my job, as paid for by the taxpayers of the city, to do what is best for the youth in Soda Springs. With that said, it has come to my attention that in the past there has been a co-op understanding with neighboring cities to combine our recreation programs. While this has brought opportunities to compete outside of Soda Springs, it has brought more detrimental impacts over time to the recreation program than positive changes. Many parents are not able to travel outside of Soda Springs due to work, family, or financial reasons for recreation games. During our coach pitch and t-ball season this year, we had many of our teams be short players when they had to travel to Grace or Bancroft to play. When we are struggling to get kids to play, it is important to remove as many barriers as possible and make activities more accessible for families to participate in.
There is a complaint that we are accessing a $500 team fee to play in our recreation programs for teams outside of Soda Springs. This is based on the $50 out of city charge for participants, and an estimate of team sizes. While we are still working on adjusting our team fees for those in our league, it is hard to justify charging Soda Springs area youth outside our city limits more than youth from other towns for the same program. While we do allow for
Grace Cross Country
The Grizzly runners have been hard at work through much of the summer months preparing for another season under head coach Jeremy Smith. The Grizzlies are looking to once again have a successful season capped off with a return to the state meet. Last year's boys and girls teams were able to accomplish a state appearance and each bring home a third place trophy. As is common with small schools each team will be made up of a few familiar faces combined with some new ones. The girls team will return experienced runners Lilly Gilbert and Breanna Heer. They will be joined by newcomer to the sport Kalli Stoddard. Those three should show good leadership on the girls team. The boys team will return three strong runners in Brock Johnson, Jonah Wilkerson
and AJ Mejia. The boys have also added a new runner in Laexin Van Gass whose family moved away after his sophomore year but have returned for his senior year. Those four boys should lead the men's team that will include some underclassmen. Many of the runners took part in a summer camp that took place in Island Park and Yellowstone. They were able to get in some great workouts as well as some fun team building activities. Rounding out their first week of practice the Grizzlies participated in the second annual “Run to Coach Smith’s House”. For this run the athletes and coaches ran over the mountain from Grace to Coach Smith's house in Bailey Creek. The Grizzlies will kick their season off on August 29th at the Terry Jones Invitational in Malad.
individuals from outside of the Soda Springs area to register for our city programs and we do our best to put all the players from similar cities together, we provided the team option for organizations or other areas to enter their own team and take responsibility and liability for each individual on that team. Again, our focus is on providing the best opportunity to participate for our youth in Soda Springs and keeping their games at home for parents.
We are moving our basketball programs during the week to follow middle school practices, making our games the same time that practices could be held under the previous arrangement. While there has been a suggestion on social media that we are starting games at 8pm, that is an unfounded accusation. The City of Soda Springs has an established agreement with the Soda Springs School District and worked out our details prior to making any changes. Without being informed of all the details, misinformation has created problems that are not necessary. The participation numbers for basketball are not great, and we are making changes to make an environment for more of our youth to participate without an intense level of competition in our recreation leagues and provide more fundamental development. By moving games to the weekdays, we are creating opportunities for those wanting more games to choose to play on the weekends in an all-star format.
Finally, there has been information online to suggest that we are not supportive of 5/6th grade tackle football. Research has shown that many children simply are not big enough to handle tackle football at that age level. We are providing a flag football opportunity for those individuals that are hesitant to play tackle football at a young age. Our goal is to help as many kids as possible learn and appreciate the game, and in return hope that more will be willing to play tackle football when they feel they are ready. In many communities, tackle football and flag football work together to ensure safety for all wanting to participate. This information was shared with the director of football at the beginning of July with an assurance that our flag football season started after tackle, so that those choosing not to play tackle could still be involved in the game this fall.
We are opening a new girl’s powderpuff football league this fall and working to bring back adult flag football as well.
I am extremely proud of my childhood in Soda Springs. I participated in all the recreation sports offered by the city, even living outside city boundaries and paying the extra fee. I had the opportunity to play all-stars and travel basketball growing up. The opportunity to play on recreation teams with many of my classmates helped build long lasting relationships with those that I may have never really gotten to know. Did everyone still play in high school? No. But did it make us better as a whole? Yes. It helped our graduating class be close and makes our reunions an event you want to attend. I want to restore that community cohesiveness, and with play as the universal language – we can start to build bridges through our recreation department. I fully recognize that things change naturally over time in all of us! Those of us in older age brackets can feel the impact of that change! Change can be hard, but it is necessary to grow. I will not apologize to anyone for fighting for what is best for our community and ask for the Soda Springs community to trust the process - because in the end, we will be better and a stronger community. What is coming up?
• We are bringing back running events and adding winter xc ski and snowshoe events!! All information will be on our website and social media!
• Haunted Fun Run and Trunk or Treat in October
• We are excited to bring back Elementary Field Days in the spring! The community is invited to attend and cheer on this great event. Date to be announced in February!
• We are actively working on pickleball courts!
• Outdoor Exploration Camp in 2025
• Outdoor Recreation Programs in 2025
• We have some great events for the community coming in 2025! All programs and corresponding information are on our new recreation website and app. I look forward to continuing to serve Soda Springs in this position and hope to provide as many community events as possible in the future!
Soda Springs Cross Country
Whenever you have Coach Jeff Horsley leading your team you know he is going to draw out the very best in each athlete. Coach Horsley needs no introduction with his long list of accomplishments and accolades over his career his reputation precedes itself. Even with such high acclaim the participation numbers have taken a hit as of late. “Our numbers are down a little bit, but the quality is good.” stated Horsley. Coach Horsley went on to say that he does have some new faces on the boys team while the girls team is virtually the same as last year. “I feel good about the kids we have. We’ll just work on getting better each week and hopefully we’re peaking at the end of the season. We want to be ready to run in those championship
races.” The Cardinals will hit the ground running on August 29th when they travel to Star Valley for the More Cowbell Invitational. The name of the race may sound fun but the course is a tough one. “The course is brutal.” stated Horsley. “We like to run those tough ones early and get our legs under us then be ready to cruise at the end of the season.” Another race that is well known for its difficulty is the Cardinal Classic. This year's Cardinal Classic will be on September 7th and feature sixty teams from Idaho, Wyoming and Utah. Soda Springs will also get the chance to host districts this year giving the competitors another chance to run the Cardinal Classic course. Stay tuned for more cross country updates as the season progresses.
Basketball was another one of the sports put on by the Rec League during a very active holiday outdoors.
One of the parallel volleyball tournaments at City Park on the 4th of July, sponsored by the Rec Department.
FALL SPORTS PREVIEW FALL SPORTS
Grace Football
in this weeks game.
The Grizzly football team has qualified for the state playoffs for four consecutive years finishing in second place in the state in 2022 and third place in 2023. This year's squad is capable of continuing that playoff streak while making another run to the championship game.
The Grizzlies will have some decent depth for the new 2A classification. They will have an almost entirely junior and senior varsity team which can be rare in the 1 and 2A classifications. Despite their high numbers they are limited on the number of returning varsity players. Coach Newby stated, “There’s a little bit of a learning curve but we have some good guys and they want to be out here and that's important.” When it comes to personnel, Coach Newby prefers to talk about groups rather than individual players.
“We hope to have a really strong offensive line. We're senior heavy with both our offensive and defensive lines so that should be some bright spots this year.” Those lines will be tested early this year as the Grizzlies will face the Oakley Hornets for their first game. The Hornets are the team that has ended the Grizzlies season for the past two years. When asked if that gives any added motivation to his team Coach Newby responded, “Guys can remember that so there's a little bit more incentive going on. But for the most part I’m trying to keep it like this is what we do every game so we can play our best stuff every week.” Regardless of motivation you can bet that Coach Newby and his staff will have the Grizzlies ready for that opening game which will be a home game for Grace on August 23rd.
North Gem Football
Last year the nine players listed on the Cowboys eight-man football team entered the season under much skepticism. Not many outside of the North Gem community gave the Cowboys much of a chance of making it through the season. After all they were only two injuries away from not having enough players to field a team. For hard nosed coach Corry Hatch those doubts sounded more like a challenge. After dropping the first two games by a combined score of 88-32 it would have been easy to throw in the towel and quit on the season. Well, quitting just isn’t something you do when you are Cowboy tough. The Cowboys went on to win the next five games before just missing out on making the playoffs when they came up short in a three way tie for second place in the conference. This year's
Cowboys will face a similar challenge. North Gem did lose senior standout Evan O’Brien to graduation but they do retain a solid core of players. Ryver Hayden and Haydn Frandsen will have a big impact on the line play for both offense and defense. Coach Hatch’s run-heavy offense will primarily run through Rustin Hatch at quarterback, and all purpose back Craig Yost. Welker and Rindlisbaker will also play a part in the game scheme for the Cowboys. The Cowboys will get an extra week of practice over the other two local teams as they will not play their season opener until next week on August 30th when they will play Castleford at home.
The Idaho Enterprise reached out to the North Gem volleyball team but has not heard back. Look for their season preview in next weeks edition.
Grace Volleyball
The Lady Grizzlies come into this season after having a very successful season last year. The 2023 Grace volleyball team finished with a second place finish at the state tournament and only recorded losses against two teams at the 1A level. Those losses included two losses to Butte County before getting redemption against the Pirates in the district tournament and then losing to the eventual state champion winners Troy. The Grace volleyball program has seen increased success in recent years but this season comes with a bunch of apprehension. Gone is the deep class of last year's seniors that included a lot of length with Straatman and Yost, power from Smith and Carpenter, and the setting from the two Andersens. Also gone is former head coach Heidi Stoddard who had become one of the state's top coaches. Despite a number of losses new head coach Kaycie Christensen remains optimistic about the upcoming season. “We’ve got 28 girls which is great. We've got some good girls so I’m pretty confident about the season.” Though the numbers are good the team is young with just a few girls having had previous varsity experience. Coach Christensen will look to those few experienced girls to help lead the team. “Tess Jorgensen is looking to be our main outside hitter this year and of course Josie Newby is our senior libero where she
Soda Springs Football
The Cardinal football team has seen a small drop-off of production in recent years but new co-head coaches Scott Gambles and Rod Worthington are looking to turn things around for Soda. The coaching staff in addition to the co-head coaches includes Jared Hunsaker, Josh Mazza, and Spencer Siepert. The coaches as a whole have been very pleased with the effort being put forth by the players commenting that several kids have been stepping up and showing more aggression during drills. The team will have plenty of youth as the freshmen and sophomore classes outnumber the juniors and seniors. Even though they feature only four seniors most of the upperclassmen do have varsity experience from last season which will help the Cardinals with leadership moving into this season. As we talked inside the empty locker room you could feel the passion that each coach has for the game and the youth they are coaching.
Coach Siepert stated, “I just want the kids to enjoy it, play hard and learn something.” To which Coach
Hunsaker added, “The kids have a great attitude right now. They're doing everything we ask them to do.” Speaking of the coachiang staff, Coach Gambles made the comment, “We got the right guys for sure.” The staff also wanted to once again state how grateful they have been for the support from the Athletic Director Jeff Horsley and Principal Jess McMurray. Like most coaches early in the season this staff was reluctant to name any standout players or talk about any upcoming opponents. “What we are trying to do is develop the system. And the beautiful thing is that in four days we have seen the system being developed to the point where now I feel like offensively they are grasping the concept.” commented Coach Worthington. He went on to say, “We are all looking at these players saying we love each of them. Now we just need to put them in the right spot to make the magic happen.” The Cardinals will look to start making that magic happen on Friday night when they face off against American Falls at home in the season opener.
Soda Springs Volleyball
will help us a ton.” Coach Christensen also mentioned Evie Olenslager who came to Grace High School late last year from Wyoming as well as Lakeland Zulu and Paisley Barthlome as potential impact players. “Those five are pretty strong right now but I’m sure more will surface as we go forward.”
Every coach wants to have a winning season but with a small conference the season can come down to just one or two games and for Grace that game will be against Butte County. As mentioned earlier the Grizzlies and Pirates had some tough instant classic games last season. Grace is in a full rebuild after losing so much from a season ago while the Pirates lost very little. The Lady Grizzlies will have to lean on some youth with just a few upperclassman leaders to get them past Butte County and back to the state tournament. That road begins on August 28th when the Lady Grizzlies will travel to Preston to play in a tri-match against Preston and West Side.
If you only look at wins and losses one may view last year's Lady Cardinal volleyball team as a failure. But that is not how second year head coach Cedar Johnson see’s it. “I felt like it was a good rebuilding year. We really increased the love and passion for the sport and the team grew in leaps and bounds.” Coach Johnson herself played for Soda Springs in high school before spending some time playing for Dawson Community College in Montana. When she returned to Soda she was hired as the c-team coach for the high school and from there worked her way up to eventually becoming the varsity head coach. This year's Cardinal volleyball team will be one with an even mix of experience and youth. With only three seniors and four juniors some of the younger girls will have to step up to help the team be successful. Due to the low number of total girls the Cardinals will not have a c-team schedule this year but they do have some good building blocks in
place for the program to grow. Some key players to watch on the cardinal team this year are Soleil Somson who will be a middle hitter as well as co-captains Tara Vetter and Maily Whitworth playing libero and setter. In response to where the team is sitting, Coach Johnson responded, “We’ve had lots of open gyms and workouts. I like where we are at this early stage of the season.” The Cardinals wrapped up their opening week of practice with a midnight madness practice where they started practice at about 10 p.m. and went until about 1 a.m. Johnson went on to say, “We hung out in the high school all night playing games and then watched the sunrise on Friday morning.” The Cardinals will kick off their season with a home match against Logan Ut. on August 28th. Coach Johnson finished with, “We would love for people to come and fill up the bleachers. It makes the atmosphere more fun and helps the intensity of both teams.”
The Grizzlies scout team offense gives their defense some looks at what they may see
Coach Gambles looks on as Cardinal receivers take turns making catches.
The Soda Springs football team working hard to prepare for the season opener.
