Veterans Day in Caribou County
A solemn Veterans Day was observed across the valley, as events to honor those who have served and are still serving in the armed forces were held. Hundreds attended traditional assemblies at the local high schools, and the winners of student essay contests presented their written words to audiences of fellow students, community members, and honored veterans.
In Soda Springs, the high school gym was filled to capacity as Principal Jess McMurray welcomed those in attendance to “thank a veteran for the right to disagree” with each other. McMurray made the thoughtful point that even in times when there was so much division between people within the country that reminding ourselves that our ability to hold civil disagreements was the result of sacrifices made by our veterans would help change our mindset into something more positive.
SSHS’s Brandon Stoor served as the Master of ceremonies, and introduced the SSHS band, who performed a rousing version of the “1812 Overture,” directed by Kimberly Mumford. This was followed by Thirkill Elementary School students, dressed and seated as a red and white and blue flag tableau, who performed a spirited variation on a classic, “Sweet Home America” and “We Say Thank You” under the direction of Makala Clark.
Recognition of local veterans from the branches of the armed services was led by Sara Fryar, Destinee Sturgess, Kale Hopkins, Taylor Hirsbrunner, and Delaney Johnson. Jacob Hirsbrunner, Quartermaster of District 7 and Post 9141 representing the VFW, presented the finalists and winners of the Patriot Pen and Voice of Democracy essays— Remington Call and Samantha Dickhaut, respectively— which are printed in this edition.
The TMS and SSHS Choirs joined together for a solemn rendition of a musical version of the memorial poem “In Flanders Field” again directed by Kim Mumford.
Veteran and SSHS staff member David Torgesen accompanied himself on guitar for an outstanding version of “God Bless America.”
A special presentation of gifts created by Mrs. Miller’s 5th and 6th grade Art classes was made to the assembled veterans, after which the colors were retired by the Caribou County veterans color guard. The warm but respectful patriotic atmosphere of the event cannot be overstated, and as many filed out of the building afterward, equally many remained to chat and extend their thanks to the veterans honored during the morning’s events.
Later on Monday, veterans were honored again at the Gem Valley Perfoming Arts Center in Grace. After the raising of the flag and a rifle salute veterans and their guests filed into the auditorium for a full program of music and commemoration.
Jacob Hirsbrunner once again introduced the winners of the VFW essay contests—Brigham Mickelson and Josie Fox—who once again read their essays for the public and the special audience of the gathered service members.
Air Force Captain Lee Wilkerson was the featured speaker for the afternoon in Grace, and gave a wonderfully personal, patriotic, and spiritual speech about how a faith in the creator, in whatever form it is believed, is part of what
makes America the amazing country that it is. Along with family, it is the bedrock of what sets this country apart from others. Wilkerson shared some of his own amazing history growing up and seeking to find his place in the world and what mattered to him, as well as some of the combat experiences that helped shape his views of what is important in life. By turns humorous and profound, Wilkerson spoke with a deep wisdom and sly smile to both the youth in the auditorium as well as the oldest veterans.
The musical direction of Elizabeth Buxton, recently recognized by the state of Idaho for her dedication and success, led the Serendipity Show Choir through a wonderful series of arrangements, aided by the National Honor Society members who organized the program.
Many other events, both large and small, were held across Caribou County in honor of one of the most sacred and important days on the calendar, including veterans breakfasts and dinners, cemetery visits, and quiet home gatherings. As Ronald Reagan famously noted, it’s appropriate to turn our thoughts to those who have given all in service of their country as the weather turns somber and the days grow shorter. And as we move into the darkest winter, we can do so in the knowledge that there are still those out there continuing to give all to keep us safe.
Geyser temporarily offline
City Services Director Justin Hansen reported at last week’s city council meeting that the city’s famous “captive geyser” has been temporarily shut down due to issues with the equipment that is used to regulate and operate the fountain. “You can’t just go to the geyser store and buy one. The guy that built it pieced it together,” Hansen informed members of the City Council. There are very few geysers of similar types anywhere in the world, let alone anywhere nearby with spare parts or expertise.
“The concept is simple, we need a valve and a pump and a timer. But it
IN THIS EDITION
runs off of 1800 psi, and it will take some doing. As of now we’re closed down.” While Hansen did not provide the council with a timeline to bring the geyser back online again, he expressed confidence that the issue could be resolved. As he noted, though, the timing was not ideal, as the winter weather makes all kinds of repairs more difficult.
The geyser is one of the main draws for tourism to the city, and is often a stop off spot for tour busses and drivers heading between the national parks to the north and other locations. Winter is a less busy season for visits, but the geyser does see sightseers on
year round basis. Updates will be given as available.
Richard Allen convicted in Delphi case
One of the most high profile murder cases of the last decade has finally resulted in the conviction of Richard Allen, who was found guilty of the 2017 murders of 13 year old Abigail Williams and 14 year old Liberty German. The case was followed closely by Indianans, as well as law enforcement and a large community of internet true crime afficionados, all of whom felt the crime could be solved. Cell phone footage from one of the victims’ phones contained a blurry video of “Bridge Guy” as he came to be known, as well as audio of him ordering the girls down to the river. Allen had been interviewed as a potential witness early in the investigation, but followup had been “lost in the cracks” according to officials. Ultimately, a clerk in the sheriff’s office noticed that Allen’s original statement had placed him near the scene of the crime, where the two girls would be found dead of severe knife wounds. Allen confessed in a recorded prison phone call, but later recanted, leading to the trial. A jury found him guilty of murder and kidnapping. He will be sentenced on December 20, and faces a maximum of 130 years in prison.
Court overhaul in Idaho creates unforeseen problems
Last month, Idaho transitioned to a new public defender system, consolidating the 44 counties in the state into a statewide Office of the State Public Defender in an attempt to make the system more robust and responsive. Under the old system, counties paid for court transcripts. Because the new law eliminates the county’s obligation for paying for public defense, it has become unclear who needs to pay for the transcripts, which are used by defendants in the appeals process. Payment disputes over the production of the transcripts have resulted in delays in the appellate process, which may further complicate the outcomes of those cases. The shift in the law was not designed to change the funding source of the process, but like many laws, it has had unintended consequences. The Idaho Supreme Court is currently hearing arguments on the issue, and will issue an opinion that hopefully will provide direction moving forward.
ISU Bengals defeat Wildcats 43-35
The last time the Idaho State Bengal football team defeated the Wildcats in Weber was right after the landslide victory of Ronald Reagan in 1984. Ghostbusters, Indiana Jones, Gremlins, and the Karate Kid were all in their original versions as highest grossing films. Young and innocent Michael Jackson’s Thriller was an album that could never be outsold. In other words, it was a very long time ago. The Bengals had lost to the Wildcats 10 times in a row before the remarkable win, which improves them to a 5-5 season, and netted them the Train Bell trophy. Apparently, there was also some sort of BYU game which ended 22-21 over U of U.
As of press time, the geyser was reported to still be turned off.
Veteran David Torgesen accompanied himself on guitar to "God Bless America."
Captain Lee Wilkerson was the featured speaker in Grace for the Veterans assembly.
Flag raising ceremony in Grace
Festival of Trees
Beth Cheirett, Chair of The Friends of the Soda Springs Library’s annual Festival of Trees fundraiser, is hoping that this year’s event is the “merriest” and “brightest” yet. Over 40 fully decorated trees/wreaths have been committed for the event set for Friday, December 6th from 5:30 pm8:00 pm at the library, which will be decked out in an amazing display of color and light for the night,
“We couldn’t be happier about the support we’ve been receiving from the community,” said Library Director Hope Hansen. “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support.” Hansen took over the position following the recent retirement of longtime director Cindy Erickson, making this the first Festival of her tenure. By all reports, things are shaping up to be even better than ever.
The Festival of Trees is an annual event in which local sponsors - both businesses and individuals - donate their time, talent and resources to create fully decorated trees or wreaths. Entries are put on display at the library for patrons to view during the week of December 2nd. All of the items items will be sold in a silent auction the evening of December 6th.
To date, more than 40 entries have been received for the event, which is an all-time high. Hansen says the increase in entries is largely due to some changes - in both the format of the festival and in the way sponsorship options and donations were set up.
Among the changes was the implementation of a Title Sponsor. A+ Contractors and Cozy B Quilts stepped up to the plate when asked for a sizable donation from festival organizers.
“We can’t thank Cody and Melissa Thompson (owners) enough for their support of the festival,” Hansen said, “Their donation has laid the foundation for a wonderful event and has
been instrumental in taking the festival to new heights.” A+ and Cozy B are extremely active in the community, and their names find a comfortable spot as the marquee sponsoring businesses of the event.
Another innovation is that the silent auction will be done through an online platform for the first time. It will allow buyers to place bids from their phone, even if they can’t attend the festival in-person. Additional details about the bidding platform will be released later in the month. Hansen stressed that librarians will be available that evening to assist patrons with online bids if needed, as the process may not be familiar to everyone who is interested in bidding on one of the amazing trees.
The festival funds will be used for critical upgrades to the facility’s infrastructure, which serves thousands of people throughout the community during the year, and as such is always in need of repair and updating. Director Hansen said the building is in
need of electrical work, for one thing.
The main section of the library has a very limited number of power sources feeding the patron computers/devices, printers, employee computers, and all other equipment.
“We have a system of power strips and extension cords to make it work, but it is definitely something that needs to be upgraded for both safety and convenience,” Hansen said.
She added that patrons who bring in laptops or need a charging station are often limited on where they can find an available power source at the library.
“An upgraded system will provide many solutions for both the patrons and library staff. We are very optimistic that the improvements will become a reality in 2025.” The fact that greater patron capacity for services is needed is a testament to the popularity and growth of the library itself.
The festival is presented by the Friends of the Soda Springs Library, a volunteer-based 501(c)(3) non-
2024 Election results Caribou County
Across the country, the 2024 election played out within the margin of error pollsters had been predicting. What was always seen as a close race lived up to that billing, as Donald Trump defeated Kamala Harris in the presidential race by capturing the “blue wall states” Harris would have needed in order to secure the win. Predictions for the outcome changed several times in the run-up to the election, with then-nominee Joe Biden trailing Trump throughout most of the campaign season, and Harris briefly outpolling Trump in the immediate aftermath of Biden’s withdrawal. Otherwise, the close race that ended up occurring matched the pre-voting prognostications that largely called it a tossup.
The Senate will return to Republican control after several seats were flipped by the GOP, and some House races have still not officially been called.
In Caribou County, Donald Trump received 2,906 votes (83.41% of the total cast), to Kamala Harris’s 445 (12.77%). Robert F Kennedy, Jr. (IND) earned 62 votes (1.78%); Chase Oliver earned 15 votes (Libertarian). Joel Skousen (Constitution
party) earned 11 votes in the county. Independents Jill Stein (7), Randall Terry (4), Shiva Ayyadurai (4), and Claudia De la Cruz (2) also earned votes. There were 28 rejected writeins as well.
In the U.S. Senate race, Mike Simpson earned 2,758 votes in his successful contest against Democrat David Roth’s 338, Todd Corsetti’s 202, and Idaho Law (Carta Sierra)’s 84.
In conjunction with parts of Bannock, Bear Lake, Bonneville, and Teton counties, State Senate district 35 was won by Republican Mark Harris with 3,052 to Democrat Chris Riley’s 348.
State Representative for District 35 Seat A remains Republican Kevin Andrus, who received 2,869 votes in Caribou County to Democrat Joseph Messerly’s 513.
State Representative for District 35 Seat B was held by Josh Wheeler, with 2,900 votes in the county to Democratic challenger Maggie Shaw’s 435.
County Commissioners Marty McCullough (3,093) and Mark Mathews (3,057) were elected after unopposed elections, as was County Sheriff Adam Mabey (3,050). Also unop-
posed were County Coroner Casey Batterton (3,131), and County Attorney Doug Wood (3,079).
Magistrate Judge David W. Cousin was retained with 92.17% of the vote (2,909).
The statewide constitutional Amendment to add language regarding elections and citizenship earned 67.28% of the county vote (2,274) to 32.72% (1,106).
Proposition 1, to create a ranked choice voting system and an open primary lost 2,753 against to 653 in favor.
The only local ballot issue that was in doubt was the Bond issue for the Soda Springs school district. The bond, for $55,165,000 would go toward the building of a new high school and additional facilities at Thirkill elementary. As a bond, the vote required a 67% threshold for passage, and it received 43.61% (867)
profit organization that raises funds to benefit the Soda Springs Public Library. Hansen says the Friends are an instrumental part of ongoing improvements.
All community members are invited to attend the festival, even if they’re not in the market for a new tree or wreath. There will be a raffle, light refreshments and of course - Santa will be visiting the children.
“There’s something for everyone at the festival. We’d love to have as many people as possible join us in the festivities,” Hansen said.
Visit the Friends of the Library’s Facebook page or go to https://www. sodaspringspubliclibrary.org/ for additional information about the 2024 Festival of Trees.
The Idaho Enterprise is proud to be one of the many sponsors of the Library, and the Festival of Trees throughout the community. Make sure to support one of the central pillars of the community through this outstanding event.
of the votes cast, to 56.39% (1,121) against. Superintendent Scoot Muir stated in the runup to the vote that the current building is beyond its expected lifetime of use, and is in serious need of replacement. The district has stated that it plans to keep re-running versions of the bond until they are able to get something passed. It was noted that the underlying costs of the financing the bond and securing bids for the project will continue to rise each year, as will the need for a new school. Some discussions of consolidating the county’s school districts is likely to increase as the results of the failed bond become a part of the discussion regarding education in the county moving forward.
The results of the election are unofficial as of press time, and will not become official until they are approved after being canvassed by the Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday.
The Soda Springs Library staff are looking forward to a busy and merry Christmas season.
The Friends of the Library hard at work planning the Festival of Trees event for December. The Festival is the largest fundraising event of the year for the Friends.
Samantha Dickhaut Soda Springs
“Is America Today Our Forefathers’ Voice”
Is America today our forefather’s vision? Our forefathers envisioned an America they could be proud of. Out founding fathers were brave men that saw something that needed to be changed and they did something about it. They met secretly and finally on August 2nd, 1776 they met and signed the declaration. Our Declaration of Independence is the world’s longest surviving written charter of government. It is amazing to think that these men met, argued, planned, wrote and rewrote a document over and over to give us this longest surviving charter, and to give us this foundation that we have been building on for almost 250 years.
So when asked “would our Founding Father be proud” I would shout from the rooftops a resounding YES. America is great and the Founding Fathers would be proud of the foundation they gave us 248 years ago. Is America perfect? No, but it has a firm foundation under it.
Jonathan Dayton is a name not as familiar or famous as George Washington or Benjamin Franklin, but he was the youngest signer of the Constitution. He is one of the reasons that I would say that the Founding
Remington Call
Soda Springs
My Voice in America’s Democracy
Can you imagine a world where you had no choice on religion, no voice, and no choice of who represents you? An example of this is in Robin Hood, where the evil monarchy is in control and the people have no voice about who their king or sheriff is. Even in our modern world, this is still occurring, like in China, Iran and Russia. However, we are lucky to live in the United States where we are free; government power is centered around the collective individual voice.
Each generation in my family line has shown me examples of using their voice in our United States democracy by choosing their careers, their religion, voicing their opinions, and voting in local, state, and national elections. This means that my great-great-grandfather was free to express his voice by going on a religious mission. Similarly, my great-grandfather was
Veterans Essays
Fathers would not only be proud, but would be amazed at the greatness they sparked.
Jonathan Dayton didn’t agree with some of the parts of the Constitution. He voiced these concerns openly. This is why America is still great. He voiced his concerns and listened to the concerns of others. Even though he didn’t agree on all things in the Constitution, he stood and signed with 39 of his fellow delegates. Sixteen of the delegates did not sign because they disagreed with parts. How does Jonathan stand apart from these 16 other men? One main reason was that even though parts of the Constitution were not what he wanted them to be or what he thought was best he accepted that the document as a whole was for the best for the people then and in the future. We are that future we can and should still voice concerns openly. We can debate, argue, and discuss issues. That’s what America was. That is what America still is today!
Like a teenager telling a story to their father, we as a country may have parts of our tale that we may be ashamed of if we were to give a report to President Washington for example. We have been divided when we should have been united at times. We have fought among ourselves. But we also have moments of extreme compassion towards each other. We have come together at times of natural disaster and of moments of terrorist attacks. We have proven time and time again that the foundation that our fathers have set up can and will remain standing firm as a beacon of freedom. So I stand proud, honored, and in awe of the 39 men that put their personal ideas aside and signed for the best of who we are and who we are becoming.
free to express his voice by serving our country in World War II. What does this mean for me? What does my voice mean in democracy? Even though I can’t vote yet, my voice is still important. I am free to voice my opinions or help make change peacefully. I can write to and meet with local, state, and national leaders. I can organize or participate in events that enact change. On a local level, I have already exercised my voice in democracy. I have participated in our yearly elementary school Fun Run helping to raise money for our school. I asked for donations and advocated our school’s needs. In 5th grade, I signed a petition for longer lunch times, so all kids had enough time to eat; even though change wasn’t made, the issue was considered, and I was free to voice my opinion. There is hope for me now and later as an adult because my freedom to have a voice has been fought for.
My voice in United States democracy matters because Americans have sacrificed, so that I, my friends, my family, and each American citizen has the right of free speech. From small acts to large endeavors, all American citizens can enact change across the United States by voting and participating in democracy. I am free to write and express my opinions, as long as they don’t take away another’s constitutional right. My voice in democracy is a freedom, but it’s also my obligation.
Is America Today our Forefathers’ Vision?
Our forefathers had an amazing vision for America. They had many dreams and goals for our country, but today I want to focus on only four of them. First, our forefathers wanted to create a fair and just government. Next, they wanted to have good protection for the land and the people. Third, they wanted us to respect all the hard work that people have done for this country. Finally, they wanted all people to have their own freedoms. I feel that these four goals were and still are very important and key factors for America’s survival.
When our forefathers created the government it was an experiment. They didn’t know if it was going to work or not, but they wanted it to be fair. To do this, they created the system of checks and balances. The system of checks and balances is a type of government and there are three branches of government to it. This system of checks and balances is a good idea and one branch can’t get too powerful because all three branches even each other out. Even though this innovative thinking and government plan was new, the Founding Fathers wanted to try it. The United States of America still uses this form of government today. It was a very smart idea and has lasted through many hardships in this country. It is natural for people to be protective of what they have, and also for them to want to be protected. That is why when the forefathers were creating the United States of America, they wanted a brave and strong military to protect the land and the people. We are a large country; fortunately, we have vast resources to protect. Therefore, we have a great military that the Founding Fathers would be proud of. No doubt the veterans are strong, brave, and hardworking. They do so much for our country and it means
Brigham Mickelson Grace
My Voice in America’s Democracy America’s democracy is important and even though I am only 13, I can share my thoughts and be involved in my school and community. I love football—in my opinion it is the best American sport. Because I live in a county that gives me individual rights, I can voice my love for football by practicing in it and supporting people that play it.
In a democracy, everyone’s voice matters. This is because all people are given the right to participate in the decision making process of a democratic government system. If I compare a football team to America’s democracy it helps me to understand how a democracy works. On a football team each player has a position to play, but in order for the team to be successful the players have to know
so much to me that they are willing to fight for what we have. We owe them for our protection in so many ways and I am so thankful for all that the veterans have done for me. Respect is so very important. I try my best to respect everything that I have. Many people have fought, sacrificed, and died for us and our country. It is vital that we remember and honor those brave and selfless people who contributed to our freedom in lots of different ways. One of the ways we show our appreciation is by showing respect to our veterans and to the American flag. During the Civil War, the American flag was a symbol of the fight, our values, and what we were fighting for. Now the American flag is a symbol of who we are and how we have gotten here, as well as a way to honor our Founding Fathers and those who have fought for our freedoms on and off the battlefields. We show respect to the flag by putting our hands over our hearts and removing cover. When the flag is out, we aren’t loud and fidgety. Instead, we are quiet and respectful. Whenever I see the American flag waving, I feel so grateful and proud to live in this amazing country. In history I have learned that our ancestors came to America with the hope for freedom. When the Founding Fathers were creating the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, they wanted people to have many freedoms. We have laws to protect us and to keep us safe, but we have so many more freedoms. We have the freedom of speech, religion, action, and dress. We also have many more as well. I am grateful for all the freedoms that I have and I use them every day.
I think America is a great country and I am very grateful for all the hard work that our forefathers did to make it so great. I think in many ways they would be proud of what has become of this country. These four topics are important to me and hopefully to others as well. They are only a part of what makes this great country, but they are still really important. I hope that we can always keep a good and fair government, and a brave military to protect us. I want to always remember the freedoms that I have and to show respect for them. I am so glad I live in this amazing country and for the people that I live around. Though not perfect, I believe that today is what our forefathers envisioned for this country in many ways. I hope the United States of American, the country that I love, will always stay well-balanced and most importantly home of the free and land of the brave.
what their role is, listen to the coach, and work together. As a citizen of the United States I have a role to play, I need to respectfully listen to other people’s opinions, and by working together a successful team and society are created.
Understanding my role whether I’m on a football team or as a citizen of the United States of America is important, everyone needs to know what they want in life. Opinions are shaped by experiences and beliefs. My opinion that football is the best American sport comes from my personal experience of playing and watching football. My opinion on my rights, liberty and freedoms comes from the things that I’ve experienced in life or that I’ve seen others experience in life. My voice can be heard when I talk with teammates, cheer on players, or choose a team to be my personal favorite. My voice contributes to America when I respect other people, share my opinions, support my school and participate in the community. Then one day in the future I will also be able to vote.
When everyone plays their part and supports one another we can have success. I can share my opinions, give my support to my school, and get involved with my community to make a difference. I think that if people will wisely speak up and respectfully listen to each other, everyone’s voice can be heard to make life better for everyone.
Josie Fox Grace
PTO Craft Fair raises funds
The Thirkill elementary PTO hosted the annual Fall/Winter Craft Fair at Thirkill elementary over the weekend, bringing in many vendors from the county as well as the wider region. Some of the names and goods were familiar while others were new, attending the event for the first time. A total of at least 27 vendors were on hand for the event, including Ranch Queen Loaded Fries, which did steady business in front of the school entrance.
PTO members Megan Ozburn and Lindsay Panek were in attendance at the event throughout the weekend, and remarked that it seemed to be going well, and had stayed fairly busy throughout.
“People have said there’s been good steady traffic, and it’s been good. I mean, I just bought a lot of stuff myself!” Panek laughed.
The PTO plans to use the booth fees gathered from vendors to support the teachers of the school through Teacher Appreciation Week. Last year, the PTO provided a meal and cinnamon rolls from Baked Fresh Sourdough Bakery for the teachers. “We try to do something for our teachers just to let them know how much we appreciate how much they do,” Ozburn said.
“This craft fair has been going on for many of years—I don’t know the exact number, but we’ve been doing it a long time,” Ozburn said. Lindsay Panek, in her first year as the organizer of the fair added, “There are a lot of really, really creative vendors in our town and our area. We have people from Pocatello, American Falls, Chesterfield—some really great people that came out.”
David and Jody Perkins are two of the vendors from American Falls area.
Their raw and infused honey products contain a number of different flavor profiles, based on the flowers the bees gather pollen from. Charleigh Carlson was with her daughter Ocean to promote their very newly acquired cider business, Cidre de Pomme. Alyson and Mike Smith were selling a variety of holiday items including wreaths as part of Alyson’s Creations and Décor. Alexis Carroll and Macie Wyler-Sturges were selling etched wood and other items. Soleil Somsen was raising money for touring sports expenses, and was teamed up with Ann Poulsen, who, along with her husband, creates beautiful rock jewelry using a lapidary machine.
Many other vendors were in attendance, including Baked Fresh, the Chamber of Commerce, the FCCLA, and at least a dozen more, with the space fees going to support Thirkill.
Right now, Thirkill is in the midst of a food drive to support the local food pantries. Whichever classroom brings in the most food pantry items will win an ice cream party. The food drive will run until November 21. Donations can be made directly to the school by any parents or community members, and directed on behalf of a particular classroom to help it win the competition. “If anyone has a child or grandchild in a particular class and they want to support their student, they absolutely can,” Ozburn said. “They can drop those items off to Shannon [Steele] at the office, and tell her which class it goes with.” The cutoff for any donations is the 21st, and food will be taken to the food banks on the 22nd.
The school is also working on an “Angel Tree” at the moment, where each teacher creates a wish list for their
classrooms, and the list is given out to help obtain needed classroom items and supplies. The PTO will help supplement any needs that are not otherwise met for the classrooms. “The teachers know what they need a lot better than we do,” Ozburn said.
Upcoming events for next year by the PTO include a “Neon Nights Dance” planned for the end of January. This will be a black light dance event for families of Thirkill students, which will be free to students and their families.
February is Literacy month, and the final planning for that month is still underway.
The PTO raised funds from its recent Fun Run to support a number of events for its students, and will be able to invite those students and families as a courtesy. The PTO will obviously still take
donations, and is always seeking to raise funds to support Thirkill’s teachers and staff. Any funds raised without an immediate earmark are used to purchase materials for the library.
“We are honored to be able to support the incredible staff we have at Thirkill. Our goal is to support our teachers in giving our kids the best education they can. The community has been very generous at supporting us, and the kids,” Ozburn said.
“We have a really great community that supports our children, and we’ve raised a lot of needed money for the school and the kids. I think that’s the biggest thing for our community is supporting our children. I don’t think the teachers get enough recognition of just how amazing they really are, and that’s what we try to do," Panek said.
War on Weeds—weeds are everybody’s problem
THE ISSUE: Yellow flag iris
Yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus) is an aquatic perennial native to Europe and the Mediterranean area. It was originally introduced as an ornamental but has since escaped. It invades areas along canals, ponds, lakes, or rivers. Its presence damages native environmental conditions and reduces water flow. Don’t be fooled by its large showy flowers, it’s a weed that can be very difficult to eradicate!
Yellow flag iris can grow up to 4 feet tall. Prior to flowering it looks a lot like a cattail. Leaves are long, slender, pointed at the tips, and have a mid-rib. It has large yellow flowers that have a peculiar shape. Unfortunately, this weed can spread by rhizomes and seed. Thick rhizomes allow this weed to form dense mats of vegetation that choke out native plants, block light, change habitat, and reduce the flow of water.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Options:
• Prevention— Learn to identify this plant. Never transport unknown plant material. Always plant clean seed!
• Mechanical— Hand digging or pulling can be effective on small infestations. Remove as much plant material as possible. Broken rhizomes can root and form new plants. Wear protective clothing when handling this weed, it’s sap is poisonous and can cause skin reactions. Removing seed pods can help reduce the spread of this weed.
Local Professionals in the beauty industry are rallying together to put on a fundraiser for fellow cosmetologist & friend Tricia Dockstader who recently lost her husband in a motorcycle accident & sustained serious injuries herself including an amputation. This event will offer a wide range of services for men & women, all proceeds will go to Tricia.
The event is scheduled for November 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Linz Style Station. To donate or purchase tickets, contact Monica Rosen at 208-380-2859.
• Chemical—Extreme care should be taken when using herbicides near a body of water. Always read and follow herbicide label directions! Glyphosate and Imazapyr are two herbicide active ingredients that can be effective at controlling this weed. Both active ingredients are non-selective, meaning they will kill or damage other plants as well. Consult local authorities for more information related to controlling this weed. Justin Hatch, University of Idaho Extension Agriculture Educator in Caribou and Bear Lake Counties. 208-547-3205 JLHatch@uidaho.edu
Photo courtesy of Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org
Charleigh Carlson brough pressed cider to the table.
Soleil Somsen and Ann Poulsen.
Macie Wyler-Sturges and Alexis Carroll.
Jody and David Perkins have several hives in the American Falls area.
Soda Springs City Council
The city council met for a regular meeting on Wednesday, November 6, as well as a public hearing.
HEARING
A public hearing was held on a request for de-annexation by Smith Filter Service. The reason given was that city services are not being provided at the property, though city taxes are being assessed to it.
The owner stated that they were trying to get out of the city limits in order to save taxes, and because the city was not providing services to the property. The reason that the property is included in the city limits is unclear, according to the petitioner.
Paul Gritton notified the council that he would be abstaining from voting on the issue, due to a potential conflict of interest, as the petitioner was a customer of his.
Because they reached the same conclusion in both cases, it is noted here that the second hearing involved a de-annexation discussion on another piece of property facing similar issues, 2844 Wood Canyon Road, owned by Cameron and Amy Newell. They had the same reasons for the request. “Because of the RR being on two sides of us, the likelihood of getting services will ever happen is small. If you have no intentions of putting services, signs, etc. on the property, I don’t feel it’s right to be paying the city when we can’t access any of the services,” Cameron Newell stated.
Council President Mitch Hart stated that “in my opinion, de-annexing would create a weird little island with the Lau property, which would not be in the city’s interest to have as an island of land. The request is in conflict with land use within the comprehensive plan. It’s a weird little jig and jag. We have another one by the old Kerr-McGee property. In a perfect world we’d like to square
them up and have a contiguous property. But they’ve been that way for a long time.”
Engineer Alan Skinner reported that the city’s Planning and Zoning board had recommended “to deny de-annexation to both entities. The motion was passed unanimously by PZ.”
City Attorney Tom Smith noted, “There was a discussion about maintaining boundaries. It was in place when the property was purchased. Trying to re-annex down the road would create a financial burden.”
Councilman Rod Worthington moved to support PZ by rejecting the de-annexation, which passed other than Councilman Gritton’s abstention.
The same result occurred in the second hearing.
Councilman Ryan Carpenter noted that “The one thing we don’t think about is the fire department. Their rating is high, so homeowners insurance is lower. That probably doesn’t offset the $600, but it is something. The chances of a city changing their boundaries is pretty rare. We’re trying to grow smartly. I’d love to say we can put in the services everywhere but…We have to follow our comp plan, and our PZ. We ask them to do a thankless job and we let them do it.”
Following the recent announcement that the Enders hotel would no longer be leased by Terah Jones, the council began discussions about the future of the building. Engineer Alan Skinner had obtained a formal document formalizing the building vacation from Jones, who was in the process of moving furniture and equipment out of the first floor and the basement by the end of the week.
Paul Gritton suggested that in his analysis there were four main options for the building: “1) move city hall there; 2) sell the bldg.; 3) lease to
BRAIN TEASERS
another business; 4) arrange a partial lease in conjunction with city hall.”
Councilman Rod Worthington noted, “I’m impressed we came up with those four. It’s only taken three years” which was a moment of humor in the ongoing discussion.
President Hart added that “We’ve explored the possibility of some kind of grant. In Idaho, there are limited resources for revitalizing historic buildings. Those are very competitive. Another would be to just turn it into a museum, which is a money pit. I did receive an expression of interest in the building, but disposing of it by sale requires a lot of hoops, including a public auction. We have a lot more latitude to lease the building than to sell it.”
“It was not my intention to decide anything tonight, but I do propose that we put it on the agenda for the Nov 20 meeting,” CM Gritton stated.
Mayor Robinsons noted that ”The business she [Jones] was doing, it was used as a community center to some extent, and the community was getting some benefit out of it that way, which we should consider going forward.”
Fire Chief Dan Squires mentioned that “It’s in the city’s best interests to keep it up to code.”
It was determined to continue the discussion in future meetings. “I’ll have some info prepared for the council’s consideration. It will probably take 4-6 months for sale. 1218 months to move city hall. Those are rough timelines,” President Hart said. “The end of this year has been a little nutty,” he also noted.
During the meeting, a discussion was being held about the city’s volunteer fire department rating, and how that affected homeowner insurance rates. Fire Chief Squires had been explaining that among volunteer fire departments in the state, only two that he knew of had better
ratings than Soda Springs. As if on cue, the fire station alarm sounded and Squires headed out the door. Squires returned a bit later in the meeting to report that the response time on the part of the department had been roughly three minutes, and the situation was under control.
City Clerk Andrea Haderlie reported that the city hall building had purchased a new furnace and AC unit from Reed’s Plumbing. The furnace had not been functioning well, and an inspection determined that it had been emitting CO, and that the AC unit was also not in good shape. The new furnace was working well, and it will be determined whether the second furnace should be replaced following a decision about the city hall’s potential move to the Enders building.
Business Licenses were approved for the following: Bels Dog Training, Addition: Grumpy Guys Pizza, Auga Farms and Handyman Services.
Hope Hansen reported on the Friends of the Library’s Festival of Trees campaign, which is currently underway. A number of local businesses have already donated, and the pace is outstripping prior years. The first tree is up now, from the title sponsor A+ and Cozy B Quilts. “We’re hoping to get a lot of people at the event from 5:30-8 on Dec. 6,” Hansen said. “Lallatin’s is donating refreshments. A lot of people have donated things and it’s looking great so far.” The library’s circulation numbers are high, and events continue to be very well attended.
Director Justin Hansen reported that fill material had been placed at the gun range to create a berm barrier, which should increase safety and noise reduction to some extent. Both Hansen and Councilman Gritton expressed the opinion that the project looked very good and was a good upgrade to the facility.
EVENT CALENDARS
SODA SPRINGS/ CARIBOU COUNTY
November 14 – Thursday
Library Story Time (10am)
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
Addition Recovery Program (7pm)
IDAN-HA Movie
MS GBB @ Grace
MS Wrestling @ Marsh Valley
November 15 – Friday
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Bridge @ The Senior Center Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAN-HA Movie
November 16 – Saturday
IDAN-HA Movie
GBB w/Bear Lake
Fundraiser for The Dockstader Family
November 17 – Sunday
Presbyterian Services
Caribou Bible Church Services
Catholic Mass (8:30am)
Open Arms Church Services
LDS Services
Hope Lutheran Church
November 18 – Monday Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
November 19 – Tuesday
GBB @ Grace
MS GBB @ Star Valley
GSSCDC (5:15pm)
November 20– Wednesday
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Pinochle @ The Senior Center Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAN-HA Movie
MS GBB w/Aberdeen
MS Wrestling @ Grace City Council (5pm)
GRACE
November 7 – Thursday
LNovember 14 – Thursday
Library Story Hour (10am)
JH GBB w/Soda Springs
JH Wrestling @ Preston
November 16 – Saturday
GBB @ West Side
JH Wrestling @ Kemmerer
November 17 – Sunday
LDS Services
Caribou Bible Church (2pm)
November 19 – Tuesday
GBB w/Soda Springs
November 20 – Wednesday
JH GBB @ Malad
JH Wrestling w/Snake River & Soda Springs
BANCROFT
November 16 – Saturday
MS GBB @ Clark Tournament
November 17 – Sunday
LDS Services
November 18 – Monday
AD Mtg. (8:30am) City Council (8pm)
November 20 – Wednesday
MS GBB w/Rockland
Every meal served with Juice/Milk/Coffee
Nov. 15 - BBQ Chicken, Church Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Peaches, Oatmeal Bread, Coffee Cake
Nov. 20 - Hawaiian Pulled Pork, Baby Carrots, Macaroni Salad, Rosey Applesauce, Island Orange Cake
BIRTHDAYS
Lezlie Dunn, Nov. 1
Teri Elam, Nov. 3
Milo T Crump, Nov. 6
Jim Russell, Nov. 6
Sheldon Mayne, Nov. 9
Lee Redepenning, Nov. 11
LaDene Hume, Nov. 12
Eileen Farnsworth, Nov. 12
Jay Perry, Nov. 13
Bill Hamilton, Nov. 14
Connie Farmer, Nov. 14
Christine Gentry, Nov. 15
Kenna Ainzley Crump, Nov. 16
Michael Robinson, Nov. 16
Doyle Dekay, Nov. 17
Jay Hook, Nov. 19
Hiedi Rigby, Nov. 22
Heather Robinson, Nov. 22
MarJean Petersen, Nov. 20
Linda J Anderson, Nov. 24
Sherry Neal, Nov. 29
Shirley Carver, Nov. 30
If you would like to add yourself, your kids, loved one, friend or family member to our weekly birthday list, contact Sherrie at 208-766-4773 or email sherrie.w@idahoenterprise.com
LUNCH MENUS
SODA SPRINGS LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Milk
Monday, November 18
Chicken Nuggets, Chips, Fruit, Veggies
Tuesday, November 19
Breakfast Scramble, Muffin, Fruit, Veggies
Wednesday, November 20
Lasagna, Fruit, Veggies
Thursday, November 21
Quesadilla, Tortilla Chips, Fruit, Veggies
NORTH GEM LUNCH MENU
Milk and Choice of Bar Each Day
Monday, November 18
Italian Dunkers, Green Beans, Applesauce Pudding Cups
Tuesday, November 19
BBQ Pork Sliders, Broccoli w/ Cheese, Pineapple Crisp
Wednesday, November 20
Chicken Noodle Soup/Tomato Soup, Egg Salad/Tuna Sandwich, Baked Squash, Oranges/Apples
Thursday, November 21
Walking Tacos, Refried Beans, Fruit Jell-O Cups
GRACE LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Milk
Monday, November 18
Alfredo, Food Choice – Carrot & Celery Sticks or Mandarin Oranges
Tuesday, November 19
Pepperoni Cheese Bread, Food Choice – Romaine Salad or Mandarin Oranges
ON THIS DAY
1732 First professional librarian in north America, Louis Timothee, hired in Philadelphia
1896 Power plant at Niagara Falls begins operation
1908 Albert Einstein presents his quantum theory of light
1994 First public trains run through the Channel Tunnel linking England and France under the English Channel
1997 Disney’s “Lion King” sets Broadway record of $2,700,000 daily sale
2002 Film “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” is released, based on the 2nd book of the series by J.K. Rowling
2010 Disney’s 3-D computer-animated musical adventure film “Tangled” premieres at El Capitan Theatre, loosely based on the German fairy tale “Rapunzel” by brothers Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm
Wednesday, November 20
Baked Potato w/Toppings, Roll, Food Choice – Green Beans or Cinnamon Applesauce
Thursday, November 21
Chicken Tenders, Potatoes w/ Gravy, Roll, Food Choice – Sunshine Carrots or Pears
2012 “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2”, based on the book by Stephenie Meyer, directed by Bill Condon, starring Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson, is released
2016 “Moana” animated Disney film directed by Ron Clements and John Musker with voices by Auli’i Cravalho and The Rock premieres in Los Angeles
2018 Archaeologists announce discovery of ancient Greek city of Tenea near Corinth, supposedly founded by captives from Trojan War
2018 Astronomers announce discovery of Super-Earth planet (3.2x bigger than Earth) orbiting red dwarf Barnard’s star, 6 light years away
2022 Earliest evidence of fire being used to cook by humans found in study of fish remains 780,000 years ago at Gesher Benot Ya’aqov in northern Israel
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.
2019
The BLM announced its strategy to implement Secretary’s Order 3376, Increasing Recreational Opportunities Through the Use of Electric Bikes, a recently signed order by the Secretary of the Interior David Berhardt that is designed to make it easier for more Americans to recreate on and experience their public lands. The order directs Dept of Interior bureaus to begin the longer term process of obtaining public input on new regulations that will clarify that low speed e-bikes should enjoy the same access as conventional bicycles, consistent with other federal and state laws. Public land managers will have the ability in the short term to utilize the flexibility they have under current regulations to accommodate this new technology that assists riders as they pedal in a way that allows them to enjoy the bicycling experience. The BLM will now permit visitors to use low-speed e-bikes on BLM roads, trails, and designated areas where traditional bikes are allowed.
The Cardinal cross country teams were back in Pocatello at the Portneuf Wellness Complex for the 2019 State Cross Country Meet. Despite the cool temps, the sun was out and the wind was minimal, giving the Cardinal XC team a bit of an advantage as they had been training in temps below 25 degrees earlier in the week, and the balmy 30 degree temps were a bit of a heat wave for them. Both teams were eyeing state championships. At the end of the day, Brynlee Simmons continued to lead the Lady Cardinals and finished the day as the 4th fastest 2A girl in the state, helping to secure a team championship. On the boys side, the duo of Carter McCullough and Keslon Smith led the charge against a tough Salmon team, and helped the Cardinal harriers earn a runner-up finish for the second year in a row.
2009 Jordan Naef, a third grader in Dana Crowther’s class at Thirkill Elementary, was honored last week with an award for her poster that was one of 14 used for the 2010 Highway Safety Kids Calendar. Others honored with certificates of appreciation were Mrs. Crowther, and Principal Robert Daniel. Jordyn’s poster was one of 14 chosen out of 884 entries for use on the calendar. Her message was “Drive and text…you’ll be next!!”
Grace High School announced it upcoming performance of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Thursday and Friday at the Gem Valley Performing Arts Center and directed by Blair Findlay. The play tells the story of six children who are poorly behaved, delinquent and violent. They go to church for the first time merely because they believe snacks are handed out at Sunday School. Instead, they find themselves involved in the annual Christmas play. Everyone thinks the pageant will turn out to be a disaster, but they are pleasantly surprised.
2004 Caribou County residents can expect their property tax notices to reflect substantial increases in all areas other than Grace, according to county treasurer Dian Crawford. Crawford explained that there are 28 tax codes areas in the county that make up the total property tax bill. They range from county and city governments to school and fire districts. The county treasurer had the county broken down into three geographic areas, roughly representing the three school districts in the county. In the area of the Soda Springs School District, city residents will have about a 12 percent property tax increase and those living the rural areas will see an increase of about 17 percent. In Grace, the total tax actually reduced slightly due the school bonds being paid off during the year.
The Caribou County Community Food Bank clients are warned that the shelves are almost bare. One reason for the empty shelves is the huge increase in the number of families using food bank services most weeks. Last
year there were three to six families being served. This year the number has risen up to 15 families. Also donations have not been as bountiful as previous years. The hope is that the Scouting for Food drive later in the month will help to restock some of the supplies needed to support local families, though in the meantime the Food Bank reports that almost every type of item usually stocked by the Bank is either out of stock or in very short supply.
As the nation pauses to honor the 25 million men and women who have answered the call to protect their country, it is also time to honor and support those who are still protecting this nation in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia, South Korea and other areas around the world. They have given much and have asked for little in return. They are friends, neighbors, and loved ones.
The Grace American Legion Auxiliary will honor all veterans and their partners at a banquet at the Legion building. The public is invited to come and honor those who have served.
Reed Findlay, Bannock County Extension agent of Pocatello, and his brother Russell returned recently to the United States after spending two weeks in Europe on an ACDIVOCA program under the direction of the US government aid program. The men, both former Soda Springs residents and graduates of SSHS, and sons of Sandra Findlay. They joined a group of agents and farmers doing international agricultural programs, Reed as a member of the National Steering Committee and Russell as a farmer. Reed taught about wheat and barley production and Russell, as an aide, also taught about bee keeping. They spend two weeks working directly with farmers, living and eating with them in Southern Yusseukhan/Kazakhatan, near the border of Pakistan. Reed explained that the basically keyed in on checking and testing the soil for fertility, and teaching how to prune their orchards which were mostly apples. They reported they had an interpreter with them the entire time and found very few people who spoke any English.
1999
Alexander Company, a barley processing business in Bancroft, received $750,000 in damage last Thursday morning in a fire that began at about 4:15 a.m. Daren Schwartz, Caribou County Fire Department Division Chief, said they believed the fire began in the top of the grain bins from an electrical problem that ignited the grain dust, causing an explosion and fire. He said three other explosions followed the initial one within the first 30 minutes and spread throughout the facility. Schwartz reported there was one person in the building at the time of the fire who feared a noise and thought maybe a train had hit the building. He went outside and saw the fire and called it in. The grain processing company owned by Wade Clark, was totally destroyed except for the load-out area, the county fire spokesman said.
Bernie Crawford was born in September 11, 1901 and recently turned 98. She was raised in Blackfoot, migrating every summer with the sheep to Grays Lake. She married Lee Crawford and had two children, Jim and Phyllis.
Bernie, along with Mary Nilesen, started the library in Soda Springs with donated books and worked for one year with no pay just to get it started. The library was located above the old city hall, where the city fire station is now.
Bernie enjoyed the ranch they lived on in the summer, raising cows out to Williamsburg. She is residing in the nursing home and doing well.
The Soda Springs Women’s Civic Club met Tuesday afternoon at the Trail for their no-host luncheon meeting, with Lytha Ellis and Wilda Phelps as co-hostesses. Meeting was conducted by President Helen Kingsford. The door prize was won by Glenys Hawker. There was no special program for the afternoon.
1994
Navy Seaman Apprentice Dustin Welker, son of Sheila and Myron of Grace, recently graduated from the Electronic Warfare Operator Technician School. During the course at the Naval Technical Training Center, Corry Station, Pensacola, Florida, students are taught to operate air, surface and sub-surface electronic countermeasure systems used on board Navy ships. They also learn to use equipment which will deceive and jam enemy electronic sensors.
Grace’s Grizzlies football team had its undefeated season come to an end as they went down to perennial sidethorn Teton 14-8 at the Fifth District playoff game in Holt arena. The Grizzly defense gave up two early touchdowns, from which they were not able to recover, despite two fumble recoveries that nearly resulted in touchdowns. Teton will be playing Glenns Ferry for the championship game next week.
Valley Dart League results: Office I beat Hy’s II 9-6; Mom and Dad’s II beat Stockmans’ 9-5; Mom and Dad’s I beat Office II 9-5; Grace II beat Bluemoon 10-9. Grace I and Hy’s I postponed till later date. Wagon Wheel had a bye.
1984
A heavy turnout of 78.5 percent of the registered voters in Caribou County cast ballots in what became essentially a Republican sweep of the county. In the two closest voting contests, Republican County Commission candidate Ariel Larson edged out Democratic candidate Williams Brent Maughan 1,781 to 1,602. The other close contest was the retail sale of wine in the county. After changing leads as the precincts came in, the wine issue finally failed by 77 votes, with 1,834 votes against it and 1,757 votes in favor. Generally, the issue was defeated in the Grace and Bancroft precincts, while being favored in the Soda Springs precincts. Another race that many people felt may be clse was the election of sheriff. It turned out to be a walk-away for Republican incumbent sheriff Richard Weaver, who received 55 percent of the vote. He got 1,942 votes, to Carl Toupin’s 1,048 and write-in Glen Armstrong’s 529. Ronals Reagan received 85 percent of the vote in the county. Senator Jim McClure also easily won the election for Senate. George Hansen carried the county over Richard Stallings.
The Soda Springs Cardettes attended
COMMUNITY NOTES
Community Thanksgiving
Dinner at Senior Center
The Caribou County Senior Center wants to make sure that no one spends a Thanksgiving without dinner or a chance to eat it with friends and neighbors. On November 28 from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. the Center will host a free dinner for anyone who would like to attend or order a meal. Dine in, take out, and delivery are all on the menu, so don’t eat alone! In order to ensure that the right amount of food is available, the Center is requesting that those interested takeout and delivery reserve a spot by November 15 .
Contact Jim McCulloch at (208) 681-1832 to make your reservation, volunteer, donate, or with any other questions.
The Center is located in down-
the 15th Minidome Drill competition last month. It is the only football drill tournament in Idaho and the surrounding area. Team division were decided by school and team sizes. The Cardettes were placed in the minidivision, competing against Malad, Vallivue, Aberdeen, and Shelley High schools. Appearance, routine, execution, and showmanship were the four areas judged. A unique drill was performed by the Cardettes. The 6-8 minutes drill tells a story of an evil force taking over all dancers. This force or spirit has overpowered all but 11 individuals. These individuals must then combine and work together to overcome and defeat the evil power. This type of dance requires expression and has taken hard work from the team. The Cardettes were excited to wear their new uniforms. The results in the division were Soda Springs first, followed by Shelley and then Vallivue. The girls sent a special thanks to Debbie Linder and Helen Thomas. The performers were Bonnie Cellan, Debbie Olney, Jodie Johnson, Teresa Nielsen, Tracie Maughan, Dawn Christensen, Branda Schvaneveldt, Tina Lester, Janis Davis, Valee Beins, Jill Rindliskbaker, Valerie Thompson, Jodi Weaver, Kelly Hoggan, Tammie Nielsen, Alesha Williams, Anjie Burnham, Kristi Walters, and Lisa Crossley.
Attorney General Jim Jones warned a group of Idaho Law Enforcement Officers in Pocatello last week to “expect some negative reaction from time to time when you are dealing with enforcement of economic and white collar crime laws.” Jones made the remarks at a dinner meeting of an economic and white collar crime seminar sponsored by the Idaho Attorney General’s office. An investigative division of the AG’s office has recently been formed to deal with increasing instances of white collar crime across the state and country. The crimes in question included price fixing, bid rigging, computer crime, and corporate fraud. The AG noted that there was generally less public support or interest in these types of crimes, which nevertheless had significant effects on the economy.
Readers are reminded that the Buddy Poppy sale is currently underway. Across America, tens of thousands of men and women volunteer poppy sellers are offering a once-a-year opportunity to personally thank the uniformed men and women who have made the supreme sacrifice and those countless veterans in hospitals who may never again be physically fit. The government does give money to their survivors and the disabled are given free hospitalizations, but the help you can five them through the Buddy Poppy Sale comes from the heart—not through what you are forced to pay in taxes. Buddy Poppies are sold by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Ladies Auxiliary volunteers.
The federal Low Income Energy Assistance Program helps to provide assistance to qualifying local families to pay their heating bills during the winter months. The program is administered by SEICAA. Income guidelines and further information can be found through the agency or at the Caribou County Courthouse.
IDAN-HA THEATRE
town Soda Springs at 60 S. Main.
Come celebrate the season!
Ecumenical Thanksgiving service planned
The ecumenical Thanksgiving service for the Soda Springs Presbyterian Church is planned for Thursday Nov. 21st., at 6 P.M. at the Presbyterian Church. Several denominations will be represented. It is a short service where we gather with others of various Christian faiths to give thanks for our many blessings.
A similar service was held 3 years ago, and was well-received by the community as coming together of folks in the community. More information of the service should be forthcoming for next week’s edition.
-INDOOR-
Thursday, November 14
Friday, November 15
Saturday, November 16
Red One (PG-13)
When a villain kidnaps Santa Claus from the North Pole, an E.L.F. (Extremely Large and Formidable) operative joins forces with the world's most accomplished tracker to find him and save Christmas.
Thursday, Friday & Saturday
6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Saturday Matinee
2:00 p.m. (All seats $5)
Wednesday, November 20
6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. (All seats $5)
Caribou County Commission 10/28
The Board of County Commissioners met for a regular meeting on Monday, October 28.
Kevin McClain--Road and Bridge
McClain raised the issue of the culverts throughout the county.
Some of the culverts have been filled or ended up having material placed into the drainage, which obstructs the flow of water.
Road Grader No. 62 has been bid at $18,376.99 for a mid-life repair/ review. The D8 was a used machine when it was purchased, and the idlers and rollers might need to be replaced. The cost was cited at above $40K. Commissioner Somsen suggested looking around for the best price. The midlife repair for no. 62 was approved.
Gentile Valley Road will have a culvert removed, as it is starting to collapse on the east side of the road. It has not had water in it for many years. Commissioner Somsen mentioned that the county has the opportunity to seek assistance with two bridges for needed work. McClain and Somsen discussed the many bridges in the county to determine which they felt were the best use of those resources from the 5 county transportation board. The bridges need to be on the state list of bridges not up to specifications to qualify.
The state will pay for a transportation plan as a part of a no match grant, upon approval.
Two new employees—one in Grace and one in Bancroft—will be starting within the week. A third employee, shared with the Weed Control department, is in the process of being hired.
The issue of snow removal on private roads was discussed, including on Village Road.
Office
Sheriff's
Deputy Russ Roper spoke to the commission on behalf of the Sheriff’s Office.
Roper volunteered to conduct the jail inspection for the county, as Sheriff Mabey was out sick.
Information about a recent shooting of livestock animals was questioned, but there was no new information.
There will be extra sheriff’s deputies in place for the election.
Access to the courthouse on the 4th and the 5th for both elections and court dates were expressed as a concern. The construction has caused some issues with ADA compliance, which can result in tort claims against the county.
Dwight Lloyd--Weed Control
Dwight Lloyd spoke to the commission on behalf of the weed control district.
He noted that it “is never too late to spray.” The cost of spraying depends on the types of weeds and chemicals involved.
Rates for spraying will require a public hearing if the policy or fees are changed.
Attorney Doug Wood asked whether Dwight knew if the county had a weed ordinance. He suggested that a penalty associated with no abating weeds would be a good idea, and that the county should spray the weeds that are not dealt with and charge the landowner afterward, as well as implement the fine. Attorney Wood suggested that it would be possible to structure the ordinance so that every day would be a new, separate fine.
Lloyd suggested that there were a
number of properties that were not in compliance with the weed abatement plan in the county. The issue is that weeds that are not controlled in one area easily spread to others.
Attorney Wood reiterated that the deterrent effect of fines have shown to be effective in the past.
22-2407, and 22-2409 in the Idaho Code states that the cost of controlling noxious weeds are the responsibility of the landowner. The landowners can be quarantined for failure to comply. Misdemeanors are the maximum results noted in the state code.
The Railroad and IDT right of ways were noted as a source of problems with regard to control/eradication of weeds as well. $3,000 fines or 12 months in prison are the maximum penalties listed, as well as a $10K civil penalty for each offense.
Lloyd also suggested that access to the roadside ditches/canals would help.
Chairman Mathews suggested that the “teeth are already in the law” and that the county just needed to start enforcing it. A minimum fee structure for the county to apply weed spray on properties out of compliance is the likely first step, and suggested at $150 per spray tank and mileage, as well as a base fee.
Turkish thistle, goat shrew, henbane, hounds tongue, and several other weeds have recently been added to the list, which includes a large number of weeds.
“I’m just trying to keep Caribou County looking halfway decent,” Lloyd said. “We could use some improvement on canal ways, even just for safety.”
“Weeds don’t go away, unless you spray them,” Commissioner McCullough said. “That or out compete them with grass. It’s just a fight all the time.”
“It’s like your house, you can’t neglect it,” Lloyd said.
A fee structure will be sent out with compliance letters. A hearing on a new fee structure will need to be scheduled. The commissioners want to discuss policies with other counties to see how they handle the situation.
BPS—Dean Stutzman
A representative from BPS spoke to the commissioners to present a phone system at a lower cost than the current one. 59 new phones, text capability, recording, voicemail to email, and other features would be included and a savings of between two and three hundred dollars a month. A one time install cost of $2500 would be up front.
Go To is the contractor that would be handling the phone contract. The system is that same that is in place at Point S and Broulims, among other local locations.
An example of the new phone was displayed for the commissioners. The phones have a color screen, and use a phone app or computer for text functions.
Helen Barker--Planning and Zoning
Helen Barker spoke to the commission on behalf of the Planning and Zoning Board.
The ordinance for the Alexander townsite was ready to be signed. A motion to approve the vacation of a road in the county was discussed after
NEWS OF RECORD
CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF
Mark Andrew Dodge, Bancroft, dogs running at large, $15.00, costs $56.50
Evangelina Kimie Fricke, Collinston, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Qing Huang, Nanjing City, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Hakeem Abiola Kareem, Houston, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Amy Jean MacDonald, Jackson, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Isac B Marquez, NA, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Rebecca D Sweers, Grace, fail to register vehicle annually, $10.50, costs $56.50
Bryan Riley Thompson, West Haven, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
a public hearing. 2024-05 is the ordinance in question.
Barker reported on a recent Area of Impact meeting that was held with the city. The county has been using the city’s code for AOI issues, but the county has some differences in zoning that need to be reconciled.
The north and east sides of the county were noted as not being as easy or likely for city growth in the future. Infrastructure for the city of Soda Springs is the main factor in growth, so the issue of financial support from the county was discussed. The area of impact is between one and one and half miles outside city limits.
The county PZ is trying to reduce the number of septic systems and wells in the area of impact, in order to make future growth more streamlined. The Area of Impact refers to the mutually agreed to area outside the city limits where growth is anticipated. Property within the area can be annexed into the city, provided it doesn’t “leapfrog.”
Recreational subdivision signs were discussed. The signs would explain that there was no winter maintenance, code violation was a misdemeanor, no structures over a certain height would be permitted, etc. Commissioner Somsen asked whether it would be a good idea to say that no building permits were allowed. It was determined that it might be worth clarifying the issue, including things like an occupancy limit, or restriction on occupancy permits. The language for the signage needs to be simple, but clear.
The Parks and Rec department does not have an itemized section for travel. Barker asked what she needs to do in order to account for that. Commissioner Somsen suggested that the use of a county vehicle would be a good place to start. A fuel line in the budget should be added to the budget for the department.
The Oregon Trail Marina Sucker Trap bathrooms were reported to be not up to the condition that the Parks and Rec department think they should be. Pictures were presented of the condition of the bathrooms, which included overfull garbage containers, poorly maintained toilets and sinks, roof issues, and a number of other problems. The lines need to be blown out, and winterized. Holes in the roof present an additional problem in that the pump is in the building. The solid waste in the facility has not been emptied, as the contractor did not have the equipment. The contractor for the maintenance provider was planned to be discontinued. Issues with Chesterfield’s restroom facilities were also discussed as possibly in need of examination.
The possibility of arranging for seasonal help under the supervision of the Parks and Rec department were discussed as a way to keep better control over the park facilities.
The current contract requires a thirty day notice, which will be developed.
Bids for repairing the roof and performing other remedial maintenance will be sought.
The Sucker Trap facilities were constructed under a grant that requires them to be “maintained in perpetuity.”
Barker asked the commissioners what their thinking was on the Ag
Protection rule. Barker developed an application for those who wish to pursue the designation.
Clerk Stoor noted that it would not be a good idea to put out an application without a board in place. In an earlier meeting, the commission had determined to wait until the status was requested before moving forward. It was suggested to file the created application until such time as it was needed.
Barker and Rowdy Larkins have been discussing a replacement program for iWorq. A potentially better service called Cloudpermit has been demonstrated by the company who runs it. The service was said to have more and better features, and provide more content to those who need it. Initially, the cost was $12,000 a year for the first setup, which would be less than what is currently being paid for iWorq. Cloudpermit may possibly be able to pay some of the remaining balance of the iWorq account were the county to switch.
Barry Myers/BLM
Myers spoke as a representative of the BLM. An overview of the Cobble Canyon project was presented. The BLM has coordinated with the Sho-Ban tribes. A draft review of the EIS will be ready for public release soon. August is the timeframe for the EIS to be completed and a decision to be made on the mine in question, proposed by P4. Two pits have been proposed, with a haul road to the east, and a load out area.
The project had previously been overturned by the court in the past. Alternatives to the proposed project were also presented. Variations in the route of the haul road were the primary differences, and the options involved different ways to mitigate the impact of wildlife and the environment.
Eric Hobson--EMS
Hobson presented information on additional radio purchases for EMS. Hobson discussed his experiences with some of the various radio companies that he has had experience with. The Fire Department will receive 5 radios for $23,742.40 and 10 radios will be purchased for EMS for $26,864.80.
The fire season is more or less over. Hobson noted that this year the number of fires that were human caused was higher than the number of naturally occurring fires, which is the reverse of usual.
Hobson is on the Health Care Coalition, which will be hosting a convention in Orlando. The cost is paid for by the coalition.
A grant for cybersecurity will likely be received for around $1,000$2,500. The final figure has not been announced yet.
A grant for the Oregon Trail Marina campground was discussed.
The burn ban for the county is over, although residents need to call in and get a burn permit, which is free.
Clerk's Office
A number of issues related to the construction were raised. The Main Street construction project is likely to continue for several more weeks, which has caused some concern about scheduling court days in order to ensure ADA accessibility.
IDAHO FISH AND GAME
SODA SPRINGS POLICE
Kusay B Hameid, Clifton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Brayden Rory Henrie, Grace, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Lauren H Johnson, Soda Springs, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Brou Franklin Petuel Kple, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Georgina H McNiff, Jackson, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Kimball Reed Payne, Lehi, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Salar Syed Rizvi, Corona, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Benjamin Paul Scherkenback, Scottsdale, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Coby Zachreson, Roy, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Todd W Hunsaker, Soda Springs, fail to purchase a hunting permit for sharptailed grouse, $250.00, costs $64.00
MAGISTRATE COURT
Emmanuel Barrera-Mendoza, Soda Springs, driving under the influence, $750.00, costs $202.50, 45 days jail, 44 days jail suspended, 1 day credit time served, 90 days drivers license suspended 18 months probation –Agency: CCSO
Alexa N Edwards, Lexington, hunt, fish or trap-buy or possess wrong class or type of license, $25.00, costs $215.00, 10 days jail, 10 days jail suspended, 12 months probation – Agency: IDF&G
Edwin M Gonzalez, American Falls, consume or possess open container by driver, $250.00, costs $237.50, 14 days
jail, 14 days jail suspended, 6 months probation – Agency CCSO
Hudson James Jackson, Bancroft, fail to notify upon striking fixtures on highway, $150.00, costs $207.50, 14 days jail, 14 days jail suspended, 12 months probation – Agency: SSPD Jonathan Francis Kyle, Weiser, battery, $200.00, costs $157.50, 14 days jail
Xiuyan Shan, Irvine, inattentive or careless driving, $300,00, costs $157.50 – Agency: SSPD
Jarrett Scott Skeem, Soda Springs, consume or possess open container by driver, $300.00, costs $187.50, 30 days jail, 15 days credit time served, 120 days probation; driving without privileges, $300.00, costs $172.50, 30 days jail, 15 days credit time served, 120 days probation – Agency: SSPD
A Solemn and busy Veterans Day in Caribou County
The flag raising was accompanied by a three volley salute. VFW Quartermaster Jacob Hirsbrunner introduces the winners of the essay contest.
Grace students take part in the Pledge of Allegiance at the flag raising.
Despite the wind, the flag was capably folded by members of the American Legion.
Thirkill students dressed in an American flag pattern.
Showman, and Over-
Champion Showman)
Great Turnout For 4-H/FFA Awards Banquet
BY JODY REEVES
Recently the Caribou County Market Animal Committee in conjunction with the Caribou County 4-H and local FFA chapters held their annual awards banquet. In the past the award ceremony has been held during the fair week in early August. This year the committee decided to try something different by having a banquet for the participants and their families. This year's banquet was held in the Grace High School cafeteria and was complete with a baked potato bar. Once the attendees all had their potato dinner and sat down to eat the awards began to be handed out.
The Market Animal Committee is an organization that puts together and runs the market animal shows and sale at the Caribou County fair each year. The committee consists of a president, vice-president, and secretary as well as a species chairman for each of the four market animals shown at the fair. The current committee members are President Justin Andersen,Vice-President Ross Carrol, Secretary Lisa Barfuss, Swine Chairman Sarah Jensen, Goat Chairman Jennifer Smith, Lamb Chairman Katie Crofts, Beef Chairman Royce Hatch, Sale Chairman Dirk Johnson, and Sale Secretary Andrea Barthlome. Each species chairman handed out awards to the showmanship division winners, the grand and reserve champion showman, the grand and reserve champion market, and the overall project winner.
In addition to the awards being handed out Justin Andersen took some time to discuss several different things that the market animal committee has been working on and thanked a long list of individuals who helped make this year's fair and shows a success. One of the topics he discussed was the scholarship program that has been started by the committee through the sale of a donation animal each year. This year's donation animal was donated by Grace senior FFA member Carson Reeves who do -
nated his alternate pig that sold for $4000.00 at the sale. Justin Andersen also announced that the scholarship would be called the Soriah Lunt McCubbins Memorial Scholarship. Soriah was a 2018 graduate of Grace High School who tragically lost her life in an auto accident last year. Soriah was an active member in 4-H and FFA. The Market Animal Committee commissioned a plaque with the scholarship name and recipients each year. Justin encouraged all of this year's seniors to apply for the scholarship.
Dirk Johnson also took a few minutes to discuss the market animal sale this past year. A total of eighty-five youth were able to sell their project animals at the sale earning $207,800.00. Dirk was excited to share how the sale has continued to grow and be successful for the youth in the county. He also went on to thank all the businesses and individuals that help to make the sale a positive experience for the youth.
The evening was a complete success with dozens of families in attendance. Everyone will no doubt be looking forward to next year's projects and fair. If you are interested in participating in a market animal project contact the 4-H Extension office at 208-547-3205.
OBITUARY
Janice Ann Johnson Van Leuven
October 8, 1959 ~ November 6, 2024
Janice Ann Johnson Van Leuven, 65, of Pocatello, ID, passed away at her home on November 6, 2024.
Janice was born on October 8, 1959, in Soda Springs, Idaho to Edmond Douglas and Pearl Elaine Stringham Johnson. She was the youngest of five children.
She attended schools in Soda Springs and graduated from Soda Springs High School in 1977. She played the French horn and was awarded the John Phillips Sousa award in band. She also attended Utah State University and Idaho State University. She worked for the Caribou County Extension office and the United States Forest Service in Soda Springs and for Concentrix in Pocatello.
On November 10, 1990, she married Brian Greg Van Leuven and they were blessed with a daughter, Pearl Ann Madison Louise, born on April 3, 1993. Madison was her pride and joy, and she loved being a mother. Greg and Janice were later divorced.
Janice had a beautiful alto voice and for a time was a member of the Camerata Singers. In the 2017 “Joy to the World, an ISU Christmas”, she and Matt both performed, she as a Camerata Singer and Matt on his cello in the Idaho State-Civic Symphony Performers.
Janice was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Janice is survived by two sisters, Kathryn (Kathy) (Brent) Martinsen and Jenay Elaine Hodges, a brother, Edmond Douglas (Diane)Johnson, Jr. and many nieces and nephews.
Janice is preceded in death by her parents, her son, Lander (Matt, formerly Madison) Johann Van Leuven, a brother-in-law, Kenneth Raye Hodges, and a sister, Kathleen (Kitty) Bunderson.
As per Janice’s wishes she was cremated.
The Soriah Lunt McCubbins Memorial Scholarship plaque with this years winners. The plaque is designed to be able to add each years winners to the bottom.
Market Goat Winners: Maycee Smith (Jr. Showmanship Champion) Jenni-
fer Smith Species Chairman, Jenna Wakefield (Intermediate Showmanship Champion, Reserve Champion Showman, Overall Project Winner), Cashlee Smith (Market Resever Champion), Kade Kimball (Grand Champion Showman). Not pictured Cady Johnson (Market Grand Champion), Josie Johnson (Sr. Champion Showman)
Market Beef Winners: Colt Christensen (Jr. Champion Showman, Reserve Champion Showman), Royce Hatch Species Chairman, Coy Hatch (Intermediate Showmanship Champion), Brigham Mickelson (Market Grand Champion). Not pictured Holt Olenslager (Sr. Showmanship Champion, Grand Champion Showman) and Tessica Jorgensen (Market Reserve Champion and Overall Project Winner)
Market Sheep Winners: Naomi Crofts (Intermediate Champion Showman), Rhett Crofts (Market Grand Champion), Lydia Hamilton (Market Reserve Champion, Sr. Champion Showman, Grand Champion
all Project Winner), Bryson Andersen (Reserve
Katie Crofts Species Chairman. Not pictured Nixon Anderson (Jr. Showmanship Champion)
Market Swine Winners: Kaydree Andersen (Jr. Showmanship Champion, Reserve Grand Champion), Sarah Jensen Species Chairman, Tyelor Turner (Market Grand Champion), Carson Reeves (Market Reserve Champion, Sr. Showmanship Champion, Grand Champion Showman, and Overall Project Winner), and Taegon Lewis (Intermediate Showmanship Champion}
Janice Ann Johnson Van Leuven
She Might be a Ranch Wife If…
BY ALLISON ELIASON
If people watching were a sport, I think it might be one of my favorites to play. I get a kick out of watching a person’s mannerisms, their habits and funny quirks to see how they tick. From their wardrobe choices to snack favorites to the people they are with, there is always something to give a little hint to their story. While everyone has their own unique story, there are always common patterns that stand out and finger which particular herd they belong to.
Just like there are sporty types and nerdy types and ultra-professional types, there is a ranch wife type. There is always a little bit of flare or spin each will have, but there are some down-to-the-core identifiers no one can shake off.
She might be a ranch wife if... she actually looks forward to the end of daylight savings time. While the rest of the world is mourning the beginning of short days and long dark nights, ranch wives all around are celebrating the season's end to the nearly bottomless work days that seem to only stop when the sun has. Tractor lights and heated shops will occasionally add a few long days here and there for the determined rancher types, but for the most part sundown will close out the work day. And for ranch wives that means the honey-do list, date night, and an early bedtime can finally have their place in the schedule.
her husband keeps the mudroom supplied with a large assortment of hats, coats, hoodies, and gloves. This might sound like the rancher of the household is in charge of the work wear shopping but he is really just the middleman. The true mudroom suppliers are the myriad of sales reps that
pass on their various swag. Sometimes it’s just a hat in passing but other days it’s a coat or a hoodie after a hefty new tractor purchase. Either way, the consolation prize is a great addition to the mudroom. Unless of course it’s a hat that can’t ever find its way into a garbage can, but that’s a different conversation.
she has had to put some breachy critters in while the rancher is away. Ranch wives are cursed, there is no other way to explain it. The minute all the regular, daily help has left the ranch, some sort of escape is bound to happen. And it usually culminates in some ornery bull or flighty heifer in the garden patch that just doesn’t want to be herded back to the pen. Leaving them until the rancher returns to put them back in just isn’t an option because leaving them unattended any longer is sure to result in unplanned fall calves, cattle lost in the cedars, or bloated steers on the alfalfa.
she has a junk drawer that is more like a rancher’s lost and found. Every house has a junk drawer for the random things that really don’t have a home in the house. When a ranch wife looks through hers, it's not random batteries, chapsticks and rubber bands. Instead, the junk drawer is full of washers, tags, fencing clips, and the like. I might not be able to find a tag marker in the shop where it actually belongs, but I know where to find one in the junk drawer of our house where it has ended up. Truthfully, I’d far prefer those misplaced ranching odd and ends to be in the junk drawer than left in pockets to make their way in the washer or the like. A cattle paint stick through the wash is something you can never come back from. her immediate presence has been demanded to help turn the cows or block the road. And usually this need
is at the most inopportune time- mid shower, when the kids are screaming for a snack or dinner is just about to come out of the oven. Usually there is only enough time to grab a coat or shoes, but every once in a while a ranch wife will get lucky and have enough time to properly pause whatever it is that she is doing. she gets “the look” when stepping foot on the ranch with “inappropriate” clothes. That hasty rush out the door may be on the rancher’s behalf, but heading out to help in anything less than jeans, a button up shirt, with boots, and gloves will surely provoke a swift scolding for a ranch wife on work apparel choices. It doesn’t matter if the plan is to help for a quick second or because she knows that its cushy ride in the hot tractor, leggings, sandals, or short sleeves are always looked down on.
she doesn't wait to be asked to get the gate. There might have been a day that a new ranch wife waited to be politely asked to assist the rancher by opening the gate. But those days are long gone. Any ranch wife knows, without a doubt, that if you are riding shotgun, you are the default gate getter. It doesn’t matter if there are babies on your lap, work to do along the ride, or the earlier mentioned poor shoe choice on. I mean, why else would she ride along if she wasn’t going to get the gate?!
her fridge and pantry could double for a vet supply store. From vaccines to anti-inflammatories, all those medications need a comfortable, temperature controlled space and what better space than a ranch wife’s own kitchen?! The condiments have a space on the refrigerator door and so do the horse prescriptions. No one in the household bats an eye to the unusual medley of ranching must haves.
A clear identifier of a ranch wife. she have learned that any daily schedule or plan is only loosely followed if it is followed at all. A trip to check the water will just as suddenly turn into a parts supply run, even if that wasn’t the plan from the beginning. The sudden breakdown or last minute remembering will abruptly spur a change of plans and the only way to know is when the truck is headed in the wrong direction. There is no consultation or heads up. But a seasoned ranch wife knows to always plan far more time than the rancher thinks they will take and to bring along a few snacks and a book to read. she doesn't ever plan to have dinner on time. Unless “on time” is about nine o'clock at night or simply when the rancher walks in the door. Long days of impossibly long to-do lists to manage, last minute repairs to fix, or lost cattle to retrieve make it impossible to set a daily dinner time. It is far easier to get the cattle fed than the family. Somehow, the ranch feedings are down to a science. The people feedings- who to feed, what to feed them, when to feed them- are still a guessing game.
It doesn’t take much looking to see the mental gymnastics ranch wives all do to keep up with the ranch and the rest of life. In the right crowd, they’re easily picked out because they are the ones balancing the grocery list and the parts list, food for dinner and feed for the barn, and the right shoes to move cows in before heading to the PTO meeting. Fortunately for their husbands, operations, kids and the rest of the world, they are the best at juggling heavy loads, finding the best in whatever circumstances they find themselves in and willing to give everything and anything their best shot.
F&G Commission approves discounted fishing licenses for foster families
Idaho Fish and Game
The Idaho Fish and Game Commission recently approved a program that will give youth in foster care and one foster parent within each household free fishing licenses in 2025.
The program is a cooperative effort between Idaho Fish and Game, Department of Health and Welfare (DHW), and Idaho Sportsmen, Access & Opportunity, which is a hunting and fishing advocacy group that is paying for the balance of discounted fishing licenses for youth ages 18 to 20 in extended foster care and one foster parent per family.
Fish and Game Commission has the authority to discount fishing license fees, and Idaho Sportsmen,
Access & Opportunity is paying the balance.
“We’re proud to support Idaho’s foster youth by making it easier for them to experience the joy of fishing,” said Fish and Game Public Information Supervisor Roger Phillips “This program is about providing connections to nature and well-being through fishing. We hope it inspires new anglers, and provides foster parents a way to pass along their fishing knowledge and appreciation for the outdoors while providing a fun family activity.”
Youth in extended foster care aged 18 to 20 and one foster parent per family who wish to participate in the program will receive a voucher upon request from DHW
that can be redeemed at a Fish and Game office for a fishing license.
“Fish and Game is taking a commendable step to support foster youth and families by discounting fishing license fees,” said DHW Family and Community Partnerships Administrator Laura Denner. “This initiative aims to promote outdoor activities that encourage bonding and healing, providing a therapeutic escape for both children in foster care and their caregivers.”
Idaho Sportsmen, Access & Opportunity Founder and Chairman Benn Brocksome said his group works to advance access and opportunity for hunting and fishing through collaboration with like-minded groups, government entities, affiliates, and members.
“Idaho’s great outdoors should be accessible to all, especially foster youth who can find solace and adventure in nature,” Brocksome said. “By covering these costs, we’re making sure that these young people and their foster families have a chance to enjoy the outdoors, connect with each other, and create lasting memories. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to increase outdoor opportunities for everyone in our community.”
Youth in foster care and their families wishing to participate in the program should reach out to Denner at DHW.
Laura Denner, DHW 208-334-0641 (office) Laura.Denner@dhw.idaho.gov
SPORTS Sports offer more than you might think
BY ALLISON ELIASON
Youth sports are ramping up in ways that athletes decades ago could never have dreamed. Camps, clinics, traveling teams, personal trainers and more make becoming an elite player far more of a reality than it once was. And with that can also come an overwhelming amount of pressure to become more and measure. But oddly enough, it also comes at a time that America’s youth are more inactive and sedentary than ever.
Sports done right can play a critical role in the healthy development of children and adolescents, regardless of their experience, skill level or athleticism. But there are those critics voicing concerns that youth sports have far more drawbacks than benefits. So who is right and what is the best choice for youth these days?
The CDC has reported that less than 25% of kids from six to seventeen have at least sixty minutes of physical activity every day. In fact, 90% of American kids are considered inactive with 10 million kids easily fitting the description of “couch potato.” Even with recess and scheduled PE, too many children are becoming sedentary, an epidemic that will have far reaching effects.
These statistics prove a great need for youth athletics to help the growing future have the strength, stamina and endurance for a long healthy life. But anyone that has been involved in sports knows that there are far more benefits than just staying in shape.
Everyone knows that sports involvement will lead to greater strength and cardiovascular health. But often they overlook many other key physical benefits of regular sports involvement, especially for growing bodies. The healthy stress on bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments will lead to denser bones, tighter joints, and stronger ligaments and tendons. Elevated heart rate and blood pressure during activities help more efficiently and completely distribute blood flow throughout the body which is key for healthy growth and development. Sports involvement is as beneficial to mental health as it is physical. Endorphins released in exercise are natural mood enhancers that can help combat problems with and reduce anxiety, depression and stress. In addition, healthy competition can be a great way to release built up tension and frustrations, so long as they are channeled in a positive way. There are beneficial lessons from both individual sports as well as team
sports. Individual sports force an athlete to learn independence, self-motivation, and discipline because their losses and achievements are due solely to themselves. Team sports help athletes learn to work in concert with their teammates. Sometimes those teammates can be inspiring and a great support, while other times they might help teach lessons of patience and working with challenging people.
Coaches, leaders and mentors help players learn about responsibility and accountability. With expectations on and off the court, athletes know they have a standard to play and live by that will affect far more than just themselves. Natural leadership opportunities will teach them how to encourage, direct and guide others for success.
There are many social benefits from sports activities. From making new friends to community connection, youth can find a greater circle of lifelong supporters.
As youth begin to develop strong physical and mental strength, learn life lessons and make new connections, their self confidence and image will naturally improve. They will see that they can do hard things and be disciplined as they work towards goals. They will find
greater satisfaction in earned victories over entitled handouts.
Unfortunately, there are some drawbacks that make youth sports a challenge. The greatest challenges most parents admit to are the expenses and time that organized sports cost. In order to be competitive, more and more is being asked of athletes, including their time and money. Any physical activity will have the inherent risk of injury. Coupling that with a healthy dose of competition and physical contact can increase the possibility even more. Some worry that the pressure of competition, expectations of coaches, parents and peers, especially early on, is leading to too much stress and burnout.
Like all things, moderation and balance in sports is best for any athlete from the most gifted player to the most unathletic. To get the greatest benefits out of their sporting experience athletes should set realistic goals, listen to their bodies to ensure they remain sound, and have healthy communication with their coaches and parents to help reduce competitive stress and pressure. With a focus on the real purpose of athletics, the development of youth and players through the game, sports will have a great role in the life of an athlete.
Road Weary Grizzlies Fall In Kibbie Dome
BY JODY REEVES
For the second season in a row the Grizzlies failed to earn a spot in the state championship game after being the most traveled team in all of 2A. The Grizzlies racked up the miles this season unofficially earning the title of Road Warriors. In the first round of the playoffs Grace traveled over one thousand miles in their win over Prairie and followed that up with a twelve hundred mile round trip to the Kibbie Dome in last week’s quarter final game against Logos. When the Grizzlies arrived at the Kibbie Dome in Moscow not only had they added several miles to their season total but they arrived having added several players to their unable to play list. Grace took their smallest number of active players on last week’s trip. In total the Grizzlies were missing a total of six players that normally would have dressed and played in that game. This was nothing new to the Grace football team this season. In fact the Grizzlies have not played a single game this season when they were at what they consider their full strength. Assistant coach Jason Kimball noted, “It would be interesting to go back and look at how many different starting line-ups we have had this season on both sides of the ball. I don’t think we have had the same eight guys start in any one game.” In addition to kids missing due to injury several that did play in last Friday’s game had minor injuries like broken fingers, strained muscles, as well as recovering from illness. The beat up players and long road trips did not ap-
pear to affect the Grizzlies attitudes however. Even facing the number two team in the state as huge underdogs didn’t dampen the spirits of the Grizzlies. Unfortunately confidence and positive vibes don’t win games.
The Grizzlies faced off against the Logos Knights. Logos is a private Christian school located in Moscow. The Knights are fairly new to the football landscape in Idaho playing in just their fourth season of having a football program. Logos has risen quickly in the 2A football ranks with this season being their best season having only one loss on their schedule. That loss came in week one against the states number one ranked team Butte County. The highly vaulted Knights playing a beat up Grizzly team amounted to what anyone would state as a dominate win for the Knights.
The game started with the Grizzlies receiving the opening kickoff. Starting deep in their own territory Grace was able to pick up a first down before being forced to punt the ball. From there the Knights controlled most of the first quarter scoring twice and earning a 14-0 lead heading into the second quarter.
Opening the second quarter the Grizzlies finally settled into their offense and with the help of a few defensive penalties Grace came up with their first score of the game. It came in the form of a twelve yard pass from Draper to Kimball in the back of the endzone and the lead was cut to 14-6 with just over seven minutes left in the first half. Following a failed onside kick by the Grizzlies, Logos took
advantage of the short field scoring in just two plays and pushing the lead back to two scores at 22-6. Following a touchback Grace would only get two offensive plays before fumbling the ball giving Logos great field position again. On the Knights first play Kimball got the ball back for Grace on an impressive diving interception. Kimball wasn’t done yet as just a handful of plays later he caught a deep bomb from Draper scoring from seventy-eight yards out. The lead was now cut to ten at 22-12 with just over three minutes left in the half. Logos used the next three minutes to add to their lead following a long methodical drive and took a 30-12 lead but were not done scoring. Three plays later Draper was hit in the back field fumbling the ball and the Knights recovered on the nine yard line. Logos scored once again and entered halftime with a 38-12 lead. In just three minutes the lead had soared from ten
to twenty-six. Logos opened the half by pouring it on the Grizzlies adding two quick scores and the lead jumped to 5212. The rout was on and the Grizzlies season was quickly coming to a close. The Grizzlies did add one more score on a fifteen yard pass to Smith to close out the third quarter. In the fourth quarter the Knights added a score and the Grizzlies followed that up with a solid drive down inside the redzone. Unfortunately, they were unable to punch it in the endzone. The clock would run out on the game and the Grace season. The Grizzles elected to finish the game with eight of their seniors on the field. The nine seniors have played a great part in the Grace football program and will be sorely missed. However the Grizzlies will bring back several starters from the junior class as they will try to make their way back to the playoffs next season.
First Annual All-County Teams
BY JODY REEVES
Volleyball Teams
The Idaho Enterprise is excited to announce our first installment of what we hope will be a yearly tradition of naming All-County first and second teams made up from our three local high schools. We are going to start with the ladies from volleyball. With this being a new feature it is likely as we move forward some of the criteria will change over the years. Admittedly our volleyball knowledge is not as strong as some of the other sports that we will cover but we did get to watch each team several times this season. With that being said our selections this year are based off of coaches nominations, reported stats, and our own visual perception of individual player performance. Some coaches included comments as to why each player was nominated and we included that in our assessment. We also looked at factors such as head to head performances as well as intangibles like energy, sportsmanship, and leadership. When differences were razor thin as they were in some cases we resorted to grade level often giving the nod to senior players in their last year of participation. We would like to note that every girl nominated was well deserving of the nomination but in the end we decided to cut the volleyball teams to six players each. Some positions may have more than one player and some players may have been labeled with multiple positions. We would like to congratulate all of the girls from Soda Springs, Grace, and North Gem on terrific seasons. Each team has a lot of younger players that will be coming back so you will likely see some of
these names again next season. Without any further adieu here are your first and second all county teams for 2024 in no particular order.
First Team
Soleil Somsen (MH) Soda Springs
Josie Newby (Libero) Grace
Mayli Whitworth (Setter) Soda Springs Paisley Barthlome (OH/S)
Grace Tess Jorgensen (OH) Grace
Emily Thornock (OH) Soda Springs
Second Team
Evie Olenslager (MH) Grace
Tara Vedder (Libero) Soda Springs
Kymberli Jensen (Setter) North Gem
Sage Daniels (OH) North Gem
Anna Davis (OH) Soda Springs
Mariah O’Brien (MH) North Gem
Football Teams
As mentioned in the volleyball section we are very excited to bring this tradition to Caribou County. The Idaho Enterprise hopes that having these teams will give a little more excitement and recognition to our local high school athletes. Unlike the volleyball teams we are slightly more well versed in the sport of football. That being said we followed a lot of the same criteria that we did for the volleyball selections. Players were nominated by their coaches along with available stats and comments stating why each player was nominated. Like volleyball we were able to see many of the football games ourselves and did base some of our selections on what we viewed with our own eyes. Again we did factor into our assessments some intangibles such as leadership, effort, and sportsmanship. Unlike volleyball with our three local football teams we are deal-
ing with a much wider spectrum of competition. We had to take into account that Soda Springs plays eleven man football while Grace and North Gem play eight man. We also had to take into consideration the strength of schedule. For example the top three teams in 3A were all in Soda Spring’s conference. Meanwhile Grace played the number one eight man team from three different states. North Gem did not exactly have an easy schedule themselves playing four different 1A playoff qualifiers as well as 2A Grace. In the end some very tough decisions were made. Some positions had several deserving candidates such as quarterback, running back, linebacker and lineman. While others did not have enough nominations to fill out a full second team. Again when it came to splitting hairs we often had to defer to the senior player due to it being their last season. The Soda Springs Cardinals are a young team on the rise that we suspect will see an increase in number of nominations over the next few years. Meanwhile Grace and North Gem lose some terrific seniors but will return some strong junior players. Congrats to all of the young men on a season well played and to those that have been selected for the all county teams for 2024.
First Team Offense
Rusty Hatch (QB) North Gem
Cole Garbett (RB) Soda Springs
Trevor Mathews (RB) Grace
Cooper Andersen (TE) Grace
Derek Hill (WR) Grace
Braden Kimball (WR) Grace
Haydn Frandsen (C) North Gem
Carson Welch (OL) Grace
Carson Reeves (OL) Grace
Shad Stoor (OL) Soda Springs
Second Team Offense
Gavin Draper (QB) Grace
Craig Yost (RB) North Gem
Zayden Garbett (RB) Soda Springs (no nomination)(TE) (no nomination)(WR) (no nomination)(WR)
Landon Moss (C) Grace
Carson Cook (OL) Soda Springs
Hyrum Barnes (OL) North Gem
Ryver Hayden (OL) North Gem
First Team Defense
Carson Reeves (DT) Grace
Carson Cook (DT) Soda Springs
Derek Hill (DE) Grace
Rusty Hatch (DE) North Gem
Cole Garbett (LB) Soda Springs
Trevor Mathews (LB) Grace
Ryder Bendtsen (LB) Soda Springs
Braden Kimball (CB) Grace
Trey Dunford (CB) Soda Springs
Carter Kimball (SS) Grace
Landon Moss (SS) Grace
Second Team Defense
Case Williams (DT) Grace
Shad Stoor (DT) Soda Springs
Kaylum Balczewski (DE) Grace
Zayden Garbett (DE) Soda Springs
Craig Yost (LB) North Gem
Chase Smith (LB) Grace
Parker Yost (LB) Grace (no nomination) (CB) (no nomination) (CB) (no nomination) (SS) (no nomination) (SS)
Special Teams
Hyrum Barnes (K) North Gem
Cole Garbett (P) Soda Springs
Lukky Welker (KR) North Gem
Senior Braden Kimball catches a touchdown pass in Friday's quarter final game. Kimball is completely lifted off of the ground as the Grizzly offense pushes against the Knight defense.
The Grizzly defense battled hard against one of the states most potent offenses.