Let there be Light!
Just in time for the season, the Main Street project is now substantially completed and has been crowned with the earlier than expected placement of Christmas lights on the new downtown light poles. City Services Director Justin Hansen and the city crew suggested earlier in the year that the lights would be different this year, and the bright and new poles certainly provide a stunning backdrop for a now well-lit downtown.
In addition to the newly illumined downtown, Main Street itself is now back in business in full, with parking and store access available for the season. If you’ve been too wary of construction to make it down for a movie, a meal, gift shopping, or anything else, there’s no reason to stay away. In addition, the businesses along and adjacent to Main street would very much like to return to normal and let people know they are open and ready for business.
With Main Street opened up, there are a number of seasonal events coming up in the next few weeks to make sure have a place on your calendar.
Movies for Thanksgiving
Moana 2 will be showing at the Idan-ha Theatre Indoor on Thanksgiving Thursday at 6:00 p.m. if you and yours would like to get out of the house after the big meal. The film will also be showing on Black Friday at 6:00 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. if you’d rather do that than fight with people after driving to a Wal-Mart in the bitter cold. A Saturday Matinee is a 2:00 p.m. and regular evening shows at 6 and 8:15.
Lighting of Tuescher Square—Dec 2
6:00 p.m.
It’s time for Santa Claus to head to Bancroft for the annual lighting or Teuscher Square downtown. Monday, December 6 at 6:00 on 95 S.
Main Street. Come gather to enjoy the beginning of the Christmas month in style. The event will feature traditional Christmas music, hot cocoa, sugar cookies, ginger snaps, and Homemade spudnuts at no charge. Members of all communities are invited to be there when the switch is thrown and a little more light comes into the world. The lighting has been a tradition in Bancroft for years, and whether you are from there or just know someone who is, head into town for an evening with friends.
Memorial Tree—Dec 2 6:00 p.m.
The annual Caribou County Memorial Tree program will be held at the Soda Springs Public Library at 6:00 on December 2nd as well.
The program will be in the kids center at the Soda Springs library, and will include a short talk by Sue Goodenough. Heidi Walker will play postlude and prelude music on her harp.
The Soda Springs Soda Pop have prepared a couple of numbers, and there will also be a musical number by Kalea Christmas.
Participants will gather around the memorial tree for a candlelight ceremony. There will be refreshments following the program in the library.
The memorial tree is nondenominational, and seeks to honor the memories of those who have gone. Please come bring a ribbon or ornament to hang on the tree in memory of a loved one.
Organizers give a huge thank you to all those who will be part of the program and a huge thanks to Bayer for sponsoring the Memorial Tree.
Robot Open House
Okay, perhaps not a holiday item, but certainly interesting. The Caribou Medical Center will be hosting a unique opportunity to see and operate the brand new Da Vinci 5 surgical ro-
bot. CMC is the only hospital in a 5 state area to have such a device, and will be showing it off on Tuesday, December 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The event is free and refreshments will be served.
Festival of Trees—Dec 6 5:30-6:00
All-Hazard Mitigation Plan still seeking responses
Caribou County is working on an All-Hazard Mitigation Plan, which is both an essential community preparedness document, as well as a requirement for a number of federal funding possibilities through government grants. The All-Hazard Mitigation plan is an inventory of what the residents and officials in the county see as the most pressing, as well as plans to mitigate or respond to those emergencies. Once the plan has been approved and accepted by the Idaho Office of Emergency Management, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Caribou County and participating jurisdictions will become eligible for a much larger pool of public funds than it currently is. This funding can be used toward a vast number of projects which will both increase the county’s emergency readiness and safeguard against many hazards (such as floods, power grid failures, cyber attacks, terrorism, fires, earthquakes, etc), as well as improve the infrastructure which exists in the town. Projects in other localities have included things like creating a fenced greenbelt around the canal system in Blackfoot to prevent drowning deaths, lowering the football field at an Idaho Falls highschool to serve as an emergency watershed, and many other projects that combine creativity with hazard mitigation. The more responses to the survey the county receives, the better able to ef-
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fective plan for the future it will be. The first 200 people to complete this survey will be entered into a drawing for prizes, which include first aid kits, emergency supplies, flashlights, and other related items.
Bird Flu found in Idaho cows
The over 20,000 dairy cattle in Idaho will undergo mandatory daily testing program to ensure that the outbreak is contained as much as possible. Bird flu, which can spread to many animals including humans, is believed to be under-reported across the country for a variety of reasons, including fear of operations being shut down due to positive results. Bird flu can spread via contact with contaminated surfaces like farm equipment, as well as through respiratory means. The concerns related to the disease are mostly related to the effect it has on cattle, including mortality. The virus is killed by pasteurization, so there is no danger of food-borne spreading. Idaho does not require those who have come in contact with animals carrying bird flu to be tested, and there is no evidence of human to human spread. The dairies in Idaho which have been found to have cattle infected with bird flu are in Magic and Treasure Valleys. Last year’s outbreak in Idaho was mostly limited to Cassia county.
Bank robbery suspect arrested after chase
On Friday, a man who is believed by police to have committed a bank robbery in Pocatello was arrested in Idaho Falls. Rulon Olson was arrested after leading police on a chase with a woman and child in the car. As a result, he was charged with felony injury to a child and felony eluding. He was also charged with battery of a law enforcement officer for an attempt to flee the scene. The vehicle was pulled over for driving violations, but after Olson was identified, the officers discovered he was a suspect in a bank robbery in Pocatello earlier in the month at Mountain America Credit Union. A second suspect in the robbery is still being sought by police. The Idaho State Police attempted to use a PIT maneuver to stop the car, but it did not work. Olson’s attempt to drive through a nearby field gave officers another chance at it, and Olson was stopped. The woman was detained and released with the child, while Olson was taken to Idaho Falls Community Hospital for medical clearance and the booked on a $40,000 bond.
Ski Idaho plates celebrates 25 years
The Ski Idaho license plate originally debuted in 1999, and is an important revenue stream for the nonprofit “Idaho Ski Areas Association.” The funds are used for advertising and promotion to Idaho’s many ski areas, as well as to support the passport program that allows 5th and 6th grade students to ski or snowboard Idaho mountains at cheap rates. There are allegedly 8,500 Ski Idaho plates on the road at any given time. Idaho is the first state to have a ski-themed license plate, according to Ski Idaho (so take that as you will). A 1947 Idaho plate features to silhouette of a skier jumping. Ski Idaho plates are one of the many license plates that help support various causes, organizations, and agencies.
LET THERE BE LIGHT On
The lights on Main Street were turned on last week. The Christmas lights were an early surprise!
Alexis Brown, Brilee McWilliams, Victoria Smith, Kristen Auga, Rachelle Haymore, Kate Lauck prepare gift bags.
The library is growing into a full festive forest!
The Memorial tree is one of the many trees that will be featured at this year’s Festival of Trees, which is sponsored by the Friends of the Soda Springs Library. The Festival accepts decorated trees from local individuals, businesses and organizations for donation, and it also provides decoration services for those who would rather go that route. The Friends of
the Library have been hard at work decorating and showcasing the trees as they come in, and a fair number are already on display at the library.
The festival will be held December 6th from 5:30 - 8:00 pm. The whole community is invited to attend. All proceeds will benefit the library.
Traditions of Christmas Community Concert—Dec 8 4:00
The Caribou Community Orchestra and Choir is almost at the finish line preparing for the December 8 “Traditions of Christmas” Concert at 4:00 p.m. at the Soda Springs High School Auditorium.
The concert is a cherished community tradition, and will present
a number of well-loved traditional Christmas pieces, including Once in David's City, Deck the Halls, Joy to the World, The Christmas Song, Go Tell It on the Mountain, Still, Still, Still, Star of Wonder Medley, African Star Carol, What Child Is This?, O, Come All Ye Faithful, Is He Worthy?, The Hallelujah Chorus, and some surprises along the way.
The Executive Orchestral Director is Anne Olorenshaw, who is described by Kathleen Campbell as “very artistic in her interpretation of the music, and very articulate in her directing. As the former music director in Bancroft, she has many years experience as a choral and instrumental director. She is a beautiful singer and an accomplished pianist. When not directing the music she will either be singing or playing the string bass in the orchestra.”
The Executive Choral Director is Kimberly Mumford. She has been soloing as a soprano since she was a young girl and has a beautiful and well-trained singing voice. She currently is the music teacher in Soda Springs, and has taught in other areas, including Grace, Pocatello and the Phoenix area. Campbell explains that “Kim is a seasoned actress who
directs the high school musicals. She is creative in her interpretation of the music. If not directing or singing, she can be found behind the piano, accompanying.”
The returning director is Vince Burgoyne of Montpelier. As an accomplished band teacher of many years in Spanish Fork, Utah, he brings energy and precision to the orchestra. He will also be directing the choir this year, bringing the same results, no doubt. When not directing or singing bass, he can be found playing the trumpet.
Making his debut this year as a choral director for the Christmas concert is Tanner Davis. Tanner brings a new perspective to the music he directs. When not directing he will be singing tenor or playing the cello.
The library's Dorajo Messerly stands with a basket donated by Idaho State University.
Kimberly Mumford leads the orchestra through its paces.
The Community Choir is also hard at work.
The orchestra is composed of skilled players, many of whom you may know from around the community.
It can be intimidating to sing in public, but the Community Choir is up to the task.
The Community Gardens tree is a unique take on the concept.
Caribou Ford is responsible for this tree, which you might have guessed!
Beth Cheirrett created this tree in memory of her father.
Plein Air at Art Show
Artist Joanna Ruma Cofa’s (her artist name) art is being presented at Soda Springs Floral’s gallery during November, and features a number of pieces painted using the “plein air” method, which Joanna is a proponent of. Plein air refers to paintings made outdoors in the elements, capturing subjects in their natural surroundings with the accompanying light and weather conditions. “It’s like extreme sports for artists,” Joanna laughed.
Plein air art is often done in the form of competitions, which Joanna has done very well at in the past. “I believe if you’re doing landscapes, the best way to do it is outside, not from a photograph. I think if you’re doing a portrait, the best way is to have a live model. And still lifes are the easiest of all, of course! I would like to get good at all of those disciplines.”
Joanna’s sister Jennifer Jones and her friend Alex Browning, an EMT/ Firefighter in Caribou County, were on hand at the Saturday open house to support Joanna and her art. (Also for the Oreo cokes, they joked.) By the time I made it, about an hour into the morning, Joanna had already sold an oil painting of a pygmy rabbit. It should be stated at this point that Joanna is extremely humble, considering her long career in the arts. “Back in Utah, I was involved in the arts a lot. I was the past co-president of the Utah Art Educators Association for four years. I was an art teacher for thirty years, and the district arts coordinator for many years. But then I retired, and now that I’m retired, I just want to paint!”
“When I was a little girl, I wanted to be a famous artist…and I didn’t make it,” Joanna laughs. “But it’s not too late. In my backup job, which was teaching art, I did pretty well. I won teacher of the year eight times and other awards too. I was the Utah art educator of the year for the whole state, so that was neat.”
Her sister reminds her that she had also won a lifetime achievement award.
“Oh yeah, that one too,” Joanna smiles.
“Now that I’m retired I’m just going back to being an artist. I don’t care about the money anymore or the fame. I just want to be good in my own mind, you know what I mean? I want to do paintings that I think are good.”
Her artist name is a nod to her Danish ancestors, but seems to fit her effervescent personality, and her love of painting. As she discusses her paintings on display, it’s clear she has a special connection to each of them.
“And when I do a painting that I think is good, a lot of other people think it’s good too. If you set your own standards, other people will like it too,”
she notes.
“And I wouldn’t want to be famous now, but I do want to be good. So I paint every day. I’ve noticed that I’m improving, which is kind of cool that you can get to my age and still be getting better.”
In addition to oils, Joanna also does charcoal portraits. At the last Soda Springs Floral show, she did 8 live quick portraits in studio. “I just think no matter who you are, you can improve, and that’s a fun thing about visual arts.” Her attitude about continual improvement certainly resonates with her history as a teacher. She spent decades providing art instruction to aspiring painters of all ages, and found the she most enjoyed teacher the youngest painters.
“They’re just fearless,” she says. “They don’t worry about things adults do and just paint what they want. I love that.”
Joanna likes to surround herself with other artistic people. Along with gallery host Marie Crane, Joanna is also a member of the Caribou County
Arts Association. “I consider Marie the Gertrude Stein of the local artists. She’s great at gathering us all together to do cool things.” Crane and Ruma Cofa added that the CCAA is always looking for more members, and they can be found under that name on Facebook. Events that the group is holding will be posted the page for anyone who wants to become involved. Members come from a variety of different media and styles, and the group is excited to have new artists to share their work with. Right now, the idea of having a photographer join the group was top of mind.
“If you want to get good at something, do it every day. Sometimes I paint for five hours, but other days I paint for fifteen minutes. But the important thing is that I do it every day— that’s where the improvement comes from,” Joanna says.
She paints a lot of scenes of the local area, including the geyser, Eight mile, and many other recognizable locations which can be found in her paintings. She also has a real fondness for wildlife, and finds that “people like looking at paintings more when there are animals in there, and me too!” In many of her paintings, animals are pictured in the background or out of the main focal area of the visual space, which makes for a fun, more naturalistic approach to outdoor scenes.
The show will continue running through the holidays, and Joanna’s work can be purchased through Soda Springs Floral. She can also be contacted through the Facebook page for the Caribou County Arts Association.
Sticker Shock Campaign to Prevent Underage Drinking
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER
TREVYN PHELPS,
Recently, the Soda Springs Police Department and the Soda Springs High School Council participated in an alcohol education campaign county-wide. We provided educational materials in the form of stickers to be placed on bags used for purchasing alcohol. These stickers ensure brighter futures by urging adults not to provide alcohol to minors, a common issue during the holiday season. The Soda Springs High School Student Council spent volunteer hours performing the tasks in setting up and disseminating the materials to each store in Caribou County that sells alcohol. On October 31st, they also set up a mock DUI crash demonstration at the Soda Springs High School. This campaign extends out efforts to prevent underage drinking in Caribou County.
The holiday season is a time for joy and togetherness, but it’s also a time when underage drinking becomes a significant concern. In Soda Springs and Caribou County, we are working together to prevent this problem through the Sticker Shock Campaign,
a statewide initiative aimed at reducing underage access to alcohol.
Sponsored by the Office of Drug Policy, the Idaho State Liquor Division, and the Soda Springs Police Department, the campaign involves placing eye-catching stickers on brown paper liquor store bags with a powerful message: “Ensure Brighter Futures: Never Provide Alcohol to Minors.” These stickers, applied by dedicated student volunteers from Soda Springs High School, serve as a visible reminder to
adults of the responsibility they hold in protecting the youth of our community.
As Sherlene Kirby, Soda Springs High School’s Student Council Advisor, wisely advises, “One drink leads to another, to another, to heartbreak and loss. Be smart—don’t drink.”
The campaign officially began locally on November 18th and is happening in stores across the state. It complements other local efforts, such as the recent mock DUI crash demonstration during Red Ribbon Week. This im-
pactful event, presented by the Soda Springs Police Department, Bayer Fire and Rescue, and the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office, emphasized the devastating consequences of substance use an underage drinking.
Underage drinking affects everyone in the community, and preventing it requires community-wide effort. By reminding adults to think twice before providing alcohol to minors, the Sticker Shock Campaign brings awareness to an issue that affects not only individual lives, but also the safety and future of our youth.
I urge everyone in Soda Springs and Caribou County to join us in this effort. The next time you see a stickered bag at a liquor store or local business selling alcohol, let it be a reminder of the important role you play in ensuring brighter futures for the young people around you.
For more information on preventing underage drinking and helpful resources, please visit Be the Parents website for more information at betheparents.org. Together, we can make a difference in our community this holiday season.
The Sticker Shock to prevent DUIs is underway in Caribou County.
A number of Joanna's oil paintings were on display inside Soda Springs Floral, and will remain in place for the next several weeks.
Joanna Ruma Cofa (left), Alex Browning (right), and Jennifer Jones (center) at Joanna's Art Show open house Saturday.
Joanna loves painting wildlife and landscapes, so this is a double win.
An example of a camouflage. There's a marmot here somewhere...
SSHS Student Council and SSPD encourage everyone to work to prevent underage drinking.
Cattle and protein supplements
BY ALLISON ELIASON
Farmers and ranchers in our neck of the woods, or rather the desert, will never stop praying for rain. Experience has told them that while we may have a good turn or two of storms, the lands will always need more moisture. It seems that once again, those prayers are being hurled at the heavens with greater intensity as southern Idaho finds itself in a below average rainfall year.
The early months looked promising as January, February, and March had above average precipitation. But as April rolled around, the spring showers were too few and far between to hardly grow any May flowers or even any June-grass. The summer months didn’t look any better with the dry heat continuing late into the fall season. The few autumn rains have hardly been enough to keep the dust down, let alone provide any significant precipitation for growth.
Funny as it may sound, useful rain on the range isn’t just any rain. A heavy rainstorm dropping inches of rain in a matter of hours might sound great, but that can often provide more moisture than what the ground can soak in, leaving runoff to simply move downstream. On the other hand, too little rainfall at once will likely evaporate in the Idaho winds before they can saturate the ground.
Not only does the quantity and quality of rain showers matter but the timing of rains in the growing season matters as well. Rains coming late in the spring provide limited growth before it will begin to mature in the summer months. And without intermittent rains throughout the summer to stimulate new growth, the little range feed available will decline in nutritional value.
When range forages go without rain, they naturally begin to mature. A part of that maturation process includes nutrients within the plants, such as phosphorus, nitrogen, calcium proteins and sugars, being moved to the roots to prepare for the next growth season. Depleted nutrients in the plant lend to low quality forages, which in turn will lend to undernourished animals. Even if nutrient content is still adequate, the dry mature grasses are often unpalatable so that livestock won’t eat enough to fulfill their dietary requirements.
Fortunately for farmers and ranchers, when the range can’t supply all the nutrients livestock need, the corner feed store has the supplements to make up the difference. Supplements can come in all shapes and sizes as loose minerals, lick tubs, liquid supplements, cube cake and everything in between.
Generally speaking, the first priority in adding supplements is adding sufficient crude protein. Proteins are a critical building block of any living thing, but crude protein is especially important in the diet of ruminant animals. In their unique multi chambered stomach are microorganisms that consume the cellulose in forages through fermentation. These microorganisms in turn produce volatile fatty acids that will serve as an energy source for the animal.
Simply put, the cow feeds the bugs in the stomach that will eventually feed it.
The microorganisms rely on a sufficient supply of nitrogen, found in protein, to promote adequate numbers and health. Increasing the health and the number of bugs in the gut will in turn increase microbial activity which will stimulate greater forage intake and overall health.
Crude protein can be divided into two different kinds- rumen degradable protein or rumen undegradable protein- protein digested by the microbes in the rumen or protein digested after the rumen. Rumen undegradable proteins are metabolized for the needs of the animal itself.
There are multiple sources of crude protein supplements but it’s important to know how much and what kinds of protein are necessary. Cattle need to eat approximately 3% of their body weight in feed, whatever the combination of range forages, alfalfa hay, or supplements may be. Of that 3%, the very baseline of crude protein to keep the rumen microorganisms functioning is 7%.
A 1200 pound cow will require 36 pounds of feed a day. At least 2.52 pounds of that feed should be rumen degradable proteins. This 7% doesn’t take into account the additional proteins necessary to also meet the protein needs for the cow herself.
A high protein supplement that will address all of these needs will usually contain anywhere from 20-48% of various kinds of protein within that supplement. Any supplement containing less than 20% is considered a high energy supplement.
The question still remains- how to know if cattle are getting enough protein? Without sending their feed to a lab to do the breakdown, it’s impossible to know the exact numbers. And while cows can directly tell you, there are some signs that can indicate if they are getting sufficient protein in their diet. First and foremost, cattle with poor body condition scores will be protein deficient. If they are consuming an adequate amount of feed but not maintaining a good condition, the rumen needs more protein to function properly.
Secondly, the consistency of manure can be an easy indicator of protein intake. Too much protein will result in thin, watery manure that will puddle on the ground. Too little protein will lend to hard manure with a number of folds on the top. Sufficient protein will result in a “cow pie” that will stack 1.5-2” high with a dimple in the center.
Trying to understand sources of protein, determining how much the dry range forages are providing, and exactly how much to supplement cattle can be a lot. Not enough will hurt the bottom line with fewer healthy calves. But too much added protein is literally money running straight through them. Hitting that sweet spot requires careful monitoring and maybe even a consultation with a nutritionist. However it is accomplished, meeting cattle’s protein needs is worth the time and investment when the feed on the ground just isn’t cutting it.
LIQUIDATION SALE!!
Tigert Students make holiday delivery
5th grade students from Tigert Middle School visited the Senior Center last week to deliver some seasonal art for local seniors. The students along with their teachers, Mrs. Mason, Ms. Sturm and Mrs. Allen, delivered the placemats they made for the Thanks-
4-H Corner
The following classes will be held at the Extension office unless otherwise noted:
Ho, Ho, Ho Boards
December 6, 10 a.m.
No Cloverbuds
Earring Gift Class
Make 4 earrings: 3 to take home, 1 for the fair.
Dec 6, 2 p.m. $10
No Cloverbuds
Salt Dough Christmas Ornaments
Dec 13, 1 p.m. $5
Cloverbuds welcome with a parent
giving and Christmas holidays to our local Seniors.
The recent school bond would have moved the fifth graders back into the grade school, but for now at least, Tigert is lucky to have them and their holiday generosity!
Cookies for Santa Plate and Cookies
Dec 20, 9 a.m. $12
No Cloverbuds
Marbled Ornament and Alcohol Ink
Ornament
Dec 20, 12 p.m. $10
Cloverbuds welcome with a parent
War on Weeds—weeds are everybody’s problem
THE ISSUE: Yellow floating heart
Yellow floating heart (Nymphoides peltata) is an aquatic perennial weed, native to the Mediterranean and Eurasia. Its presence negatively impacts biological diversity, native plants, native ecology, and wildlife habitat. Yellow floating heart gets its name from large heart shaped leaves that float on the top of the water. The leaves are green to yellow green in color. Leaves are shiny and 2-6 inches across. Bright yellow flowers are formed in clusters of 2-5 flowers per cluster. Flowers have 5 fringed petals and are housed on stems about 3 inches above the water. Yellow floating heart is a dangerous weed because it spreads very easily. It can spread by seed (transported great distances by waterfowl), by rhizomes (runners under the water surface) and by broken plant parts that float to new areas. Unfortunately, this weed is a popular water garden plant and can still be purchased in some regions.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Options:
• Prevention— Learn to identify this plant. Never dispose of aquarium contents in bodies of water. Always clean, drain, and dry watercraft before transporting to new locations. Report sightings to local authorities.
• Mechanical— Hand digging or
pulling can be effective on small infestations, extreme care should be taken to remove as much of the plant as possible. This plant can spread by broken plant parts.
• Cultural— Control measures should be taken before flowering occurs. Waterfowl that consume seeds can transport them to new areas.
• Chemical—Unfortunately, this weed can be very difficult to control using chemicals. It has a thick waxy layer on its leaves that prevents chemicals from penetrating. Contact local authorities for chemical control options. Always read and follow herbicide label directions!
Justin Hatch, University of Idaho ExtensionAgriculture Educator in Caribou and Bear Lake County. 208-547-3205 JLHatch@uidaho.edu
When: December 14 & 15, Noon to 5
What: Tapestries, crystals, home decor, Grateful Dead t-shirts, tie dye onesies, posters, purses, games, hats, jewelry, incense, and much more cool merchandise.
Photo courtesy of David Cappaert, Bugwood.org
Tigert 5th graders visited the Senior Center to bring placemats for the holidays.
SENIOR CITIZENS’ CORNER December 2024
Scheduled Events
December 11: Board of Directors Meeting 4:00 pm
December 21-31: Center Closed
The Senior Center will be CLOSED from December 21st through January 6th, and will re-open on January 7th. We wish everyone a happy and safe holiday!!!
Heart Healthy Holiday Tips
• Know the symptoms and take action: Heart attack signs may vary in men and women and it’s important to catch them early and call 9-1-1 for help. The sooner medical treatment begins, the better the chances of survival and preventing heart damage.
• Celebrate in moderation: ‘Tis the season for unhealthy changes in diet and higher alcohol consumption. Eating healthfully during the holidays doesn’t have to mean depriving yourself, there are still ways to eat smart. Look for small, healthy changes and swaps you can make so you continue to feel your best while eating and drinking in moderation, and don’t forget to watch the sodium. Plan for peace on earth and goodwill toward yourself: Make time to take care of yourself during the busy holiday. Reduce stress from family interactions, strained finances, hectic schedules and other stressors that tack on this time of year, including traveling.
• Keep moving: The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week and this number usually drops during the holiday buzz. Get creative with ways to stay active, even if it’s going for a family walk or another fun activity you can do with your loved ones.
Stick to your meds: Busy holidays can make way for skipping medications, forgetting them when away from home, or not getting refills in a timely manner. Here is a medication chart to help stay on top of it, and be sure to keep tabs on your blood pressure numbers
BRAIN TEASERS
Pressure Cooker Chicken Tortilla
Soup
Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 carton (32 ounces) reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1-1/2 cups frozen corn
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
Optional: Crumbled tortilla chips, chopped avocado, jalapeno peppers and lime wedges
Directions
1. Select saute setting on a 6-qt. electric pressure cooker and adjust for medium heat; add oil. Add onion; cook and stir 6-8 minutes or until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Press cancel. Add the next 10 ingredients. Stir. Lock lid; close pressure-release valve.
2. Adjust to pressure-cook on high for 8 minutes. Allow pressure to naturally release for 12 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. Remove chicken from the pressure cooker. Shred with 2 forks; return to pressure cooker. Stir in cilantro. Serve with optional toppings as desire
CARIBOU COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS' MENU
Every meal served with Juice/Milk/ Coffee
Dec. 4 - Pork Chops, Mashed Potatoes, Bean Salad, Apples, Dilly Bread
Dec. 6 - Chicken Teriyaki, Rice, Broccoli, White Bread, Paradise Cake
Dec. 11 - Baked Spaghetti, Green Salad, Pears, Breadsticks, Cherry Crisp
Dec. 13 - Birthday Dinner, Chick-
en Enchilada Soup, Sourdough Bread, Mandarins, Birthday Cake & Ice Cream (In-House Only)
Dec. 18 - Pork Stir Fry w/Rice, Peaches, Oatmeal Bread, Spice Cake
Dec. 20 - Prime Rib Roast, Baked Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Oranges, Rolls, Chocolate Pudding Dessert
Dec. 25 - CLOSED, MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Dec. 27 - CLOSED!
EVENT CALENDARS
SODA SPRINGS/ CARIBOU COUNTY
November 28 – Thursday
Happy Thanksgiving!
Library Story Time (10am)
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
Addition Recovery Program (7pm)
IDAN-HA Movie
November 29 – Friday
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Bridge @ The Senior Center
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAN-HA Movie
November 30 – Saturday
IDAN-HA Movie
December 1 – Sunday
Presbyterian Services
Caribou Bible Church Services
Catholic Mass (8:30am)
Open Arms Church Services
LDS Services
Hope Lutheran Church
December 2 – Monday
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
December 3 – Tuesday
BBB w/West Jefferson
December 4 – Wednesday
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Pinochle @ The Senior Center Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAN-HA Movie
City Council (5pm)
MS GBB w/Preston Wrestling w/Snake River Dual
GRACE
November 28 – Thursday
Library Story Hour (10am)
December 1 – Sunday
LDS Services
Caribou Bible Church (2pm)
December 2 – Monday
PTO Food Drive
SDC Program (7:30pm)
December 3 – Tuesday
BPA Regionals
BCES Music Concert
December 4 – Wednesday
City Council (6pm)
BBB w/West Side
BANCROFT
December 1 – Sunday
LDS Services
December 2 – Monday
School Board Mtg. (6:30pm)
December 3 – Tuesday
GBB @ Watersprings
BBB @ Watersprings
December 4 – Wednesday
MS GBB w/Watersprings
LUNCH MENUS
SODA SPRINGS LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Milk
Monday, December 2
Crispito, Refried Beans, Fruit, Veggies
Tuesday, December 3
Teriyaki Chicken, Rice, Fruit, Veggies
Wednesday, December 4
Turkey Sub, Chips, Fruit, Veggies
Thursday, December 5
Hot Dog, Pork & Beans, Fruit, Veggies
NORTH GEM LUNCH MENU
Milk and Choice of Bar Each Day
Monday, December 2
Meatball Subs, Green Beans, Strawberries
Tuesday, December 3
Smothered Burritos, Peas w/Carrots, Applesauce
Wednesday, December 4
Super Nachos, Roasted Baby Carrots, Apricots
Thursday, December 5
Chicken Nuggets w/Mac & Cheese, Broccoli/Cauliflower ake, Blueberry Smoothie
GRACE LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Milk
Monday, December 2
Popcorn Chicken, Fried Rice, Food Choice – Roasted Broccoli or Peaches
Tuesday, December 3
Sloppy Joe, Tots, Food Choice –Pork & Beans, Corn or Pears
ON THIS DAY
1520 Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan begins crossing the Pacific Ocean
1814 The Times of London first printed by automatic, steam powered presses built by German inventors Friedrich Kienig and Andreas Friedrich Bauer - makes newspapers available to mass audience
BIRTHDAYS
Sherry Neal, Nov. 29
Shirley Carver, Nov. 30
Charlotte Grace Brown, Dec. 1
Scott Davis, Dec. 1
Andy Robinson, Dec. 2
Ruth Sparks, Dec. 2
Melissa McDowell, Dec. 6
Shannon Gentry, Dec. 6
Larry Perron, Dec. 6
Kathy Dixon, Dec. 8
Mark Fugate, Dec. 8
Rorie Bartschi, Dec. 9
ShaLayne Bartschi, Dec. 9
Pattie Stringham, Dec. 9
Sandy Fugate, Dec. 10
Craig Shuler, Dec. 11
Allyne Crossley, Dec. 12
Vivien Mendenhall, Dec. 12
Scott Bevins, Dec. 13
Terry Johnson, Dec. 15
Jerry Jeppsen, Dec. 17
Gloria Evans, Dec. 20
Michael Pabst Jr., Dec. 20
Marian Lester, Dec. 24
Meri Hovanski, Dec. 26
Elaine Swope, Dec. 28
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
1895 America’s first auto race organized by the “Chicago Times-Herald” - Chicago to Evanston and back; 6 cars, 55 miles, Frank Duryea wins averaging 7 MPH
1933 A Dallas grand jury delivers a murder indictment against bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow for the January 1933 killing of Tarrant County Deputy Malcolm Davis
1948 Edited film serial “Hopalong Cassidy” premieres on TV, later becoming the first network western series on NBC
1964 Mariner 4 launched; first probe to fly by Mars
1974 John Lennon’s last concert appearance, as a guest of Elton John,
Wednesday, December 4
Deli Sandwich, Chips, Food Choice – Relish Tray or Mandarin Oranges
Thursday, December 5
Alfredo, Breadstick, Food Choice –Salad or Cinnamon Applesauce
Madison Square Garden, New York City; they perform “Whatever Gets You Thru the Night”; “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds”; and “I Saw Her Standing There”
1984 Over 250 years after their deaths, William Penn and his wife Hannah Callowhill Penn are made Honorary Citizens of the United States
1988 Picasso’s “Acrobat & Harlequin” sells for $38.46 million
1994 Convicted serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer is clubbed to death by fellow inmate Christopher Scarver in the Columbia Correctional Institution gymnasium in Portage, Wisconsin
2012 “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” first of the Hobbit film series, directed by Peter Jackson, starring Martin Freeman and Ian McKellen premieres in Wellington, New Zealand
2023 41 Indian construction workers successfully rescued after 41 days trapped in a collapsed tunnel in Uttarakhand
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
Superintendent Jaime Holyoak reported that Grace High School was in the top ten schools of the state of Idaho’s 162 schools. The ranking are based on a large number of factors, and the appearance on the state top ten was certainly impressive.
The Soda Springs Police Department, Soda Springs School District, and City of Soda Springs announced jointly that they had come to terms to procure the funding for eight hours of School Resource Officer time a month to provide an off duty officer for the school, who would be compensated by the district. The SRO will provide a police presence throughout the district, and serve as a resource in assisting with safety awareness, staff and student training, and monitoring for any illegal activities. The district and Police department have been working together on several safety initiatives including facility safety, behavior threat assessment training, and self-defense training.
Superintendent Stein and Chief Shaw consider the agreement to be one more critical layer in providing a safe learning environment for the students of the district.
2014 The Festival of Trees filled the courthouse as the public voted for their favorites. The event involved the whole community, and helped raise funds for the proposed Ledge Creek Horse Park. Vicki Lozier was one of the main organizers of the event.
Treacherous driving was the norm across southeast Idaho at the end of November, as numerous slide-offs and wrecks were reported. In one case, an empty semi-cattle truck near the US 30 overpass ruptured a diesel fuel tank, resulting in calls to emergency firefighters. The wet, still falling snow made conditions dangerous, although no injuries resulted.
Gina Githmiller was honored by Soda Springs Mayor Jim Smith for her community work with individuals, groups, and the whole community. She volunteers with CASSA, is a volunteer ambulance driver, and treasurer of the Thirkill PTO, and Soda Springs Friends of the Library. She is also helping a local Soda Springs woman with her local campaigning, helps watch a friend’s child when needed, and if you need to clean your carpets, she is quick to get her carpet cleaner ready to go for you to borrow. She is constantly helping others. She is selfless and kind and is definitely a Soda Springs hero, the mayor said.
Public Safety Director Dennis Godfrey asked permission from the Caribou County Board of Commissioners to bid on a D-7 dozer at an upcoming auction. The dozer would be used for fire suppression, and the bid was approved. Godfrey was also recognized for his achievement as a certified risk manager for the county. Jason Lower, landfill supervisor, reported that concrete crushing was going well. The commission agreed to open the Scott Brown road to his residence on Government Dam road in exchange for him allowing the county to dike snow in the winter along his property and on other county road areas he has land by. The commissioners approved a bonus of $800 for fulltime employees with five years of service or more, and those with less a $400 bonus. Christmas bonuses were $200 and $100 for fulltime and parttime respectively. Commissioner Earl Somsen reported that Jeff Godfrey felt the signs that were installed at the Blackfoot River Park were working well.
2004
The following students were Students of the Month at Tigert Middle School. September: Zac Bybee,
son of Chad and DaNeil Bybee; Vanessa Vranes, daughter of Randy and LeAnn Vranes; Alex Clegg, son of Rick and Laura Clegg; Amber Deiter, daughter of Bill and Sherry Deiter. October: Jake Shumway, son of Perry and Ann Shumway; Maddisen Neuman, daughter of Dan and Cammi Neuman; Tanner Davis, son of Griff and Sonia Davis; Cara Christensen, daughter of Irvin Christensen and the late Linda Christensen. November: Kasey Meyers, son of Babe and Hayley Myers and Billie Rigby; Catherine Smith, daughter of Jim and Julie Smith; Dustin Lish, son of Lori Lish, and Josie Cracroft, daughter of Randy and Gwen Cracroft. The criteria for selection was good citizenship and grades. Great American Video provided a certicate for a free movie rental to students of the month.
A production of “The Importance of Being Earnest” was scheduled for Grace High School, directed by Nathan Melander. It will star Justin Shupe, Braidan Weeks, Bibiana Ramirez, Derek Sharp, Evelyn Yates, Natasha Mickleson, Kristi Kunz, and Brandon Ackerman. Brownie Troop 481 members Sage Rice, Wendy Han, Kayla Watkins, Madeline William, Tiana Hunsaker, and Tawny Barfuss helped the Boy Scouts on Saturday pass out food drive flags. The Girl Scouts also helped the Boy Scouts with the Food Drive for the Food Bank later in the month.
The Bag of Woad campaign by the Highland CWMA in Caribou County for the past summer released its figures. A total of 800 bags were given out and 649 were returned full. The amount taken represents 10 tons of the noxious weed. The total money paid out to those who gathered the plant was $6.490.
According to the Thunderbirds report, “We had fun in Mrs. Gentry’s class las month. We learned how to read a thermometer to tell how cold it is outside. We also learned how to count with pennies and dimes. Jordan James’ mom, who’s a Spanish teacher at Soda Springs High School, came in to teach us some Spanish. Kyle Sims’ grandpa came in to show us his model airplanes. Mr. Vice came in from Monsanto to do a presentation on bats. We learned a lot from all of them. We had some fun October class rotations too. We learned about owls from Mrs. Williams, bats from Mrs. Clegg, and spiders from Mrs. Gentry. We had a terrific Halloween party at the end of the month. We played fun games and ate yummy treats!”
1994
Standardized testing was discussed at the Soda Springs School Board meeting, where trustees heard from teachers, administrators, and parents on the subject. Superintendent Lawrence Rigby said that testing becomes a highly emotional issue and one that may never come to full consensus. The spectrum of thoughts runs from standardized testing is completely wrong to performance tests, which are very expensive, time consuming, and only as good as their scorers. “Standardized achievement tests don’t tell you a lot,” he told the trustees. “They tell you some.” Rigby said many teachers were negative about the tests, and he said he was partly to blame because he only purchases the gross results of the students and the class to save money. “It was really gross for teachers to try to determine how to change their curriculum,” he said, noting costs would increase from about $3 per student to $5 for more diagnostic information. Rigby proposed that standardized tests be given to the second, fourth, sixth, eight, and tenth grades, with proficiency testing to be given other grades that year.
A group of 29 Idaho 4-Hers will head to Orlando, Florida in December for this year’s National 4-H Youth Congress. The Idaho state 4-H winners submitted applications for this honor and were selected to attend based upon their accomplishments in the 4-H pro -
gram. All received partial or full support from various donors. Airon Ann Shuler, daughter of Craig and Raylene Shuler, was awarded a trip to the Ntional 4-H Youth Congress sponsored by the Idaho 4-H endowment Fund and Soda Springs Rotary for her overall involvement in 4-H. Her ten year 4-H career has run the gamut from handwork and macrame to energy management. Last year, Shuler was judged the state winner in the 4-H energy management program. Currently a freshman at the University of Idaho, she plans to study agriculture and law.
In keeping with an effort to encourage academic excellence, Tigert Middle School instituted the “Renaissance Program” where students are rewarded for maintaining their grade point average or improving it. Last week Mrs. Eriksen, school principal, held an assembly to honor these students. Since this was the first grading period of the year, only the 8th graders were honored at this time. Treats were donated by Lews and Dan’s Thirftway and Mason Distributing. 59 students, from Josse Allen to Andrea Welling, made the list, which was just short of the goal of 60 percent of the student body reaching the Renaissance level.
Earl and Kath McNeil finalized their purchase of the Soda Springs Floral Shop. The McNeils moved to town recently from Salt Lake, where Kathy had worked in a floral shop the past year with fresh flowers.
1984
Wade Wilker, formerly of Grace, represented the Mountain Rodeo Association at the North American Rodeo Commission Finals held last week at Denver. Wilker competed in the steer wrestling against the top 75 qualifiers from the United States, Canada, and Australia. His total time of 15.5 on three head was good for second place, finishing just behind Danny Cross from Powell, Wyoming.
An American flag was reported stolen Tuesday morning from the Soda Springs City offices. City Administrator Roy Rainey said someone took the flag the night before. He said that there had been some complaints received about the flag being left out at night, but noted that the protocol calls for lighting up the flag at night, which the city has done since it put up the new flagpole recently. With the all-weather flag and night lighting, Rainey said he couldn’t figure out why anyone would want to take the flag down or steal it. City officials said they would appreciate the flag being returned.
Burglaries reported in Grace around the same time included Rex’s Sales and Service, Grace High School, Grace Equipment, and Jim’s Tire Company. An undetermined amount of cash was taken from Rex’s, about 300 candy bars from the high school, and nothing from the other businesses, Sheriff Richard Weaver said. In Soda Springs, burglars targeted the Hooper School for about $150, as well as items. The window was broken to gain access. A juvenile was arrested for the burglary of Thomas Packing, co. Rex’s Sales, Matthew’s Chevrolet, and Shuler Bros. Ford in Soda Springs were also broken into.
USU and Gaylon and Margaret Hopkins will direct a tour to Israel, Egypt, Greece, and Turkey in June. The tour also includes a Mediterranean cruise.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Fletcher were accompanied by Mr. and Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Richards to Salt Lake City where they spent the night and flew out the next morning for their home in Manchester, England after visiting the last two months in Soda Springs with their daughter and family. A phone call Saturday from the Fletchers to Valerie Metcalfe confirmed their safe arrival in England. They will attend a Lion’s Club meeting Monday evening in Stockport to present Lion’s vest pins and a club pennant sent from the Soda Springs Lions to the En -
glish Club. Mr. Irresistible was chosen from each class at Grace High School during the recent Spinster’s Skip, and were Bart Anderson from the Freshmen, Sid Hansen for the Sophomores, Dwight Lloyd from the Juniors, and Rod Sanders from the Senior Class.
Warren and Toots Henderson enjoyed Thanksgiving dinner at the Ray and Carol Ann home in Soda Springs. Others present were Nathan, Jodi, and Jason Allen, Kip and Terri Allen, Adele, Cheri, and Mike Allen and Edith Jensen from Montpelier. In the afternoon, the Hendersons went to visit with the Joe Frank and Lyle Swensen family where they snacked and had dessert with the Swensens and Kym and Kim Crossley from Soda Springs.
The Williams ward Young Ladies and Young Men Organizations held their Gold and Green Ball on Friday evening at the Ward Cultural Hall, which was beautifully decorated with miniature Christmas lights draped around the serving table and hall. Dance music was furnished by Eric Ruud and his stereo tapes. A floor show was presented by the youth of the ward in two parts at 9:30 p.m. under the direction of Joe Frank and Lyle Swensen. Eclairs and punch were served as refreshments to all present. A large crowd enjoyed the evening.
Caribou Memorial Hospital announced an Expanded Physical Therapy Program at its new location in the Lakeview Medical Center northeast of the hospital. Steven M. Schwab, M.A., Registered Physical Therapist will be using ultra-sound to help relieve muscle spasms, as well as treat issues in backs, necks, shoulders, hips, joints, knees. Conditions such as sprains, arthritis, cerebral palsy, development disabilities, burns, stroke, and neurological diseases can also be aided at the clinic. According to Karen Tate, head librarian at the Soda Springs Public Library, recent changes have almost doubled the circulation. Earlier in the year, the library started lending out educational toys, as well as book. They started with about 25 toys from companies such as Fisher-Price, Sears, and Child Guidance, which were obtained through a grant from Southeast Idaho Community Action, applied for by coordinator Debbie Smith. The purpose behind the idea was to make educational toys available to those lower income children in the community who did not have access to that type of learning experience, as well as other families within the community. In October, the library’s hours were increased to 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, evenings from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday. “Circulation almost doubled the first month the hours were increased,” Mrs. Tate said.
IDAN-HA THEATRE
-INDOOR-
Thursday, November 28
Friday, November 29 Saturday, November 30
Moana 2 (PG) Moana journeys to the far seas of Oceania after receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors.
Thursday, Friday & Saturday 6:00 p.m. and 8:15 p.m.
Saturday Matinee 2:00 p.m. (All seats $5)
Wednesday, December 4 6:00 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. (All seats $5)
208-547-3282
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held before the Planning & Zoning Commission of the City of Soda Springs, Idaho, on the 10th day of December 2024, at 6:05P.M., at the City Hall located at 9 West 2nd South, Soda Springs, Idaho, to consider the application of Beatha Development, LLC for a zoning reclassification to change the property owned by them from an (R-3) Multiple Family Residential Zone to a (C-2) Community Commercial Zone.
The proposed reclassification will allow the 5.4 acres in Block 17 and to the East of Block 17 to be used for self-storage and New Commercial Businesses.
The property involved in this request is as follows:
The property Parcel Identification Number: 01000017001A. Lots 1, 2, 3, & 4 in Block 17,
and additional portion of land East of Block 17, owned by Beatha Development LLC. Per the Zoning Reclassification Ordinance 702, Section 1. Old Parcel Identification Number: 010000170020.
All persons present at the public hearings shall be allowed to be heard. Written comments or objections may be submitted to the Planning & Zoning Secretary at 9 West 2nd South, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276, or email chelseyd@sodaspringsid.com.
Any person needing special accommodations to participate in the above hearing should contact Soda Springs City Hall at 208-547-2600 at least seven (7) days before the hearing.
Dated this 18th day of November, 2024.
Chelsey Davids, Planning & Zoning Secretary #1048-11-21-28-24-T2
T.S. No. 127478-ID Parcel No.: 015013000002 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE
On 3/26/2025 at 9:00 AM
(recognized local time), IN THE LOBBY OF THE CARIBOU COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 159 SOUTH MAIN STREET, SODA SPRINGS, ID 83276, in the County of Caribou, SYDNEY K. LEAVITT, ESQ., a member of the State Bar of Idaho, of ALDRIDGE PITE, LLP as trustee, will sell at public auction, to the highest bidder, for cash, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, the following described real property, situated in the County of Caribou, State of Idaho, and described as follows, to wit: THE SOUTH 30 FEET OF LOT 2 AND ALL OF LOT 3, MOUNTAIN VIEW SUBDIVISION, IN THE CITY OF SODA SPRINGS, CARIBOU COUNTY, IDAHO, ACCORDING TO THE OFFICIAL PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF CARIBOU COUNTY, IDAHO, UNDER RECORDER'S INSTRUMENT NO. 29474. The Trustee has no knowledge of a more particular description of the above referenced real property, but for purposes of compliance with Idaho Code Section 60-113, the Trustee has been informed that the address of: 170 N 2ND E, SODA SPRINGS, ID 83276, is commonly associated with said real property. Said sale will be made without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession or encumbrances to satisfy the obligation secured by and pursuant to the power of sale conferred in the Deed of Trust executed by HEATH V. HOPKINS AND RAINIE B. HOPKINS, HUSBAND AND WIFE, as Grantor(s), to FIRST AMERICAN TITLE, as Trustee, for the benefit and security of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS BENEFICIARY, AS NOMINEE FOR QUICKEN LOANS INC., ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, as Beneficiary, dated 5/17/2017, recorded 5/22/2017, as Instrument No. 199057, official records of Caribou County, Idaho.
Please note: The above named Grantors are named to comply with Idaho Code Section 451506(4)(a); no representation is made that they are, or are not, presently responsible for the obligation. The default for which this sale is to be made is the failure to make monthly payments when due from 4/1/2024 and all subsequent monthly payments thereafter, including installments of
Board of County Commissioners
Caribou 11/25
After the approval of the minutes, payroll, and claims, as well as the pledge and prayer, the Caribou Board of County Commissioners began their regular meeting for November 25.
Kevin McClain—Road and Bridge
Two bridges are potentials for grant money for repair. The state and federal governments have ongoing programs to bring infrastructure up to code, with a focus on bridges. Several within the county are in need of attention in that regard.
Money for the Blackfoot river project department needed a letter of support from the commissioners, as does a traffic plan.
tion, which was approved by the commissioners.
Two extra trees that were not included in the original bid for removal needed to be taken down in order to accommodate the fire station footprint. One of the trees is becoming close to the power line, and the roots may also become an issue.
There has been a price increase in some of the materials of about 17K$.
Up to $15K for various electrical material was approved.
ue for a number of people in the county. The system keeps track of permits filed for building projects, as well as a number of other issues related to the county’s planning and zoning. The cost to retrieve the county’s data from iWorQ was discussed. The contract for CloudPermit for PZ software for $12,600 was approved.
Eric Hobson--EMS
Hobson spoke to the commissioners about a number of issues.
principal, interest, impounds, advances, plus any charges lawfully due under the note secured by the aforementioned Deed of Trust, Deed of Trust and as allowed under Idaho Law. The sum owing on the obligation secured by said Deed of Trust as of 11/18/2024 is $97,542.62 including interest, costs, fees, including trustee and/or attorney fees and costs, and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the obligation thereunder or in this sale and to protect the security associated with the Deed of Trust, as authorized in the Note, Deed of Trust or as allowed under Idaho Law. Because interest, late charges, fees, costs and expenses continue to accrue, the total amount due varies from day to day. Hence, if you pay the amount shown above, an adjustment may be necessary after receipt of funds to satisfy the debt. For further information, write the Trustee at 4375 Jutland Drive, Ste. 200, San Diego, CA 92117, or call (866)931-0036 DATED: 11/18/2024 Signature/ By: SYDNEY K. LEAVITT, ESQ., a member of the State Bar of Idaho, of ALDRIDGE PITE, LLP
#1049-12-5-12-19-26-24-T4
LEGAL NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that IDAWY Solid Waste District (District) has submitted to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) a Plan of Operations for the IDAWY Caribou Landfill Facility (Landfill). This plan has been submitted in accordance with DEQ and EPA requirements to provide a description of dayto-day Landfill operations and activities. This public notice is made pursuant to Idaho Code 39-7411(6), and as determined in Section 31-819 of Idaho Code. This report may be reviewed at the District office located at 241 S Main, Suite #3 Lower Left, Soda Springs, ID 83276, (208) 236-6160 or an electronic copy can be requested. Office hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, except holidays. The public is invited to comment on this Plan of Operations. The 28-day comment period commences with the first publication of this announcement beginning the week of November 11, 2024. Written comments will be accepted during the public comment period and should be directed to: Dept. of Environmental Quality, Pocatello Regional Office, 444 Hospital Way, #300, Pocatello, ID 83201, (208) 236-6160. #1050
Jack Clark has property in Ivins off the airport road. He would like to put some cattle guards in. In the past he has furnished them. With a jog in the road, it will create two places where the guards aren’t needed. He is asking for the county to straighten the road in order to make it more efficient. McClain thinks that it probably will not take a lot to fix the road. A straightened road would allow the property owner to divide the property more naturally than it currently is, eliminating the need for potentially two cattle guards. Questions about why the road—which goes out of the way of a natural straight line for unclear reasons—is drawn the way it is were raised. Chairman Mathews said he did not know, but suggested that realignments had been done in the past, and it was possible to do so again. The length was estimated at about 3/8 of a mile. Cinders out of the Ivins pit would be used. McClain said that he would further verify that the property owners in the area were okay with the plan, and that the road itself would be easily made in its newer form before proceeding.
A contract for winterizing one of the county vehicles, as discussed in recent meetings, was ready to be signed.
Dike Lake plowing was discussed. BLM was okay with the county plowing out to the boat dock. Once the snow is deep, McClain feels that the effort might not justify the time and expense for the county. He also expressed concern about plowing creating potential liability by providing levy access over unpredictable ice.
Rowdy Larkins—Building Building Inspector Rowdy Larkins presented a number of change orders to the commissioners. They involve the planned Event Center. One involved having the contractors carry the builders risk insurance. Both sides had assumed the county would be carrying it, but it turns out that it is not permitted to do so. Some further questions about how the builders insurance was being accounted for and billed through the process were raised. Commissioner Somsen moved to approve the insurance for up to $4K which was passed.
Another change order regards the excavation of top soil, which was different in composition than had been predicted. More organic material than was thought had to be hauled out and then replaced with suitable substrate to bring it to the level needed. Larkins expressed the opinion that a soil study having been done in the first place would have caught this issue. He also felt that it should have been included in the original contract. A change order up to $70K was approved regarding the topsoil.
Before the project can move forward, a special inspection of the soil needs to be completed. Utah Testing and Engineering bid $15,465 for the soil inspec-
Change orders are necessary in construction projects when the original estimate needs to be adjusted to account for additional expenses. Generally, a limit is set for any changes over a certain amount for approval from the commissioners.
The actual digging and construction should be able to begin follow these change orders.
The Event Center is scheduled to be completed and up and running sometime during the next year, 2025.
Sheriff Mabey
Sheriff Adam Mabey reported that one deputy has put in his resignation. One dispatch position has been filled, by a former employee. A new detention deputy has been hired for the detention facility. Mabey also reported that the office is expecting that there are two patrol vehicles coming in. The Tundra will be used for the detective. The training vehicle has been purchased locally in Soda Springs. The old transport van was sold, to offset the cost.
The FCC is putting through a rule change which will affect communications with inmates inside the jail. Billing for the inmates was deemed too high by the FCC, so contractors will take out existing kiosks. The state sheriff’s association, as well as the sheriff himself, is opposed to the move. This will remove the ability of inmates to have video calls/conferencing with relatives. The regulations are national, however, and not withing the county’s ability to make decisions about.
The ordinance project with Attorney Wood is underway, but will be completed after the holiday. One of the ordinances in question regards exotic animals, which promises to be interesting no matter the outcome.
ITD engineers have discussed the merge lane near the new Maverik across from the county sheriff’s building, which the sheriff feels has created a dangerous situation involving traffic entering and leaving the building complex.
A Tri-county snowmobile meeting is planned.
Sheriff Mabey has had pneumonia for a few weeks, but he is recovering and is “back up to speed.” He clarified that “There are no issues with me doing my job as an elected official.”
PZ—Helen Barker
A resolution to support the Improvement Bond for Recreational Subdivisions was at issue.
MR&E was also contacted about garbage services, and some other issues related to facility maintenance at areas around the county.
An estimate of $1200 for dock maintenance was quoted. 7 docks total were listed. Everything has been pulled for now for the season.
CloudPermit is a new program/software suite to handle building permit information in place of iWorQs. It was reported that they (iWorQ) would not be able to pay for the overlapping costs of switching companies. The county is switching to the new system, and Barker and Larkins both felt that it would be more useful and a better val-
He spoke to the commissioners about the All-County Hazard mitigation plan. Hobson has spoken to the city councils of several cities. Only 61 surveys have been completed so far, though more are expected.
Projects need to be outlined in the All-Hazard Mitigation plan. Hobson explained some of the mechanics by which the AHMP interacts with the granting process. The AHMP works to prepare communities for risk, both as a financial and loss of life mitigation program. Creative uses of mitigation projects are the order of the day, and the county can use it to apply for a number of federal grants that generally cover 75-90% of the cost. The costs to entities can be covered through in-kind donations.
Itafos has offered $10K for an old ambulance owned by the county. The ambulance would be used on site as a company ambulance. The commissioners felt that the offer was a good one for the vehicle. The commissioners voted to accept the Itafos bid for $10K for the old ambulance.
Currently the plan in the county is to purchase a new ambulance every 3 or 4 years through an ambulance grant. The idea is to make sure that the oldest “backup” ambulance is no more than 20 years old.
Normally, there is a Christmas card for employees, which is a card to Lallatins. The party will be on December 20 at 6:30.
Doug Wood
The issue of Indigent defense was discussed. The state public defender’s office has taken over the indigent defense cases, which had been handled by attorney Marler. The transition to the public defender’s office has been underway recently. Concerns about the imbalance between counties of different sizes have been expressed throughout the state, and the commissioners and Wood noted that they had seen some evidence of that imbalance begin to take shape.
Jill Stoor
Clerk Stoor also brought to the county’s attention the fact that the sidewalk project in front of the building had resulted in the loss of several parking spots.
Molly Besaris
Molly Besaris from 4CASI spoke to the commissioners about a Gem grant underway. She applied for the city and county for $50K. She was awarded $18K for the county, which will be their first Gem grant.
The funds can be used for anything the commission seems best. It might potentially be used to compensate individuals who had to pay out of pocket for the Main Street project. This could be given to the city to compensate the business owners to some extent. The grant is always available to support economic development and local businesses. She encouraged the commissioners to keep thinking of things that could qualify for future Gem grants. She explained that there are many things throughout the year that the county could qualify for.
Bancroft City Council
Monday, October 21, 2024
The following report is adapted from the official minutes recorded by City Clerk Debbie Swensen
Roll call showed the following council and staff members were present:
Council President Rick P. Hatch, Jessica M. Vawser, Eric Christensen, Nate W. Eiman, and Clerk
Swensen
Others in attendance: James Ackerman, Mike Ackerman
Absent: Mayor Spencer
The city of Bancroft City Council met for a regular meeting. After the minutes of the previous meeting and the accounts payable were approved, the council turned their attention to building permits.
Building Permits
1.) James Vawser-Deck. James Vawser had filed a permit to replace an existing deck on his property. He will remove the existing foundation and steps. He will replace them with a wood deck. Councilmember Nate Eiman made a motion to approve the permit for a wooden deck and demolition of the existing structure. CM Eric Christensen 2nd the motion. Motion passed 4-0.
2.) Justin White- Metal Building
Justin White would like to place a 24 x24 metal framed shed on the southwest corner of his property, which is allowable under the building code. CM Nate Eiman made a motion to approve the building permit for Justin White. CM Eric Christensen 2d the motion. Motion passed 4-0.
Cold Mix Purchase
CM Eric Christensen made a motion to table the purchase due to not knowing costs and quantity.
Lawn Mower and Attachment Purchase
Council member Eric Christensen presented a quote from Ken's Rec World in Pocatello for a lawn mower and attachment to be used within the city. Maintenance Moreland presented a quote from Centennial Lube. Both mowers have the same size deck but, the suspensions and transmissions are of different quality. Councilmember Eric Christensen mentioned that it the bid reads “limited warranty” and he would like to have that defined.
Council would like the city to do the annual maintenance to help prevent costly repairs and belt replacements. Council would like to keep at least one spare belt on hand to prevent unnecessary trips to the store.
Councilmember Jessica Vawser made a motion to table the lawn mower and attachment purchase and clarify what is covered under lifetime warranty. CM Eric Christensen 2d the motion, which passed 4-0.
Dump Truck Rental Fee Increase
Council members had a lengthy discussion regarding the expenses to maintain the city dump truck. Council agrees that renting the truck to residents is a nice amenity but it is costly and the maintenance fees should be covered. Council discussed rising costs associated with tires, fluids, fuel, wages, and other miscellaneous wear and tear
on the truck going back and forth to the landfill. Council discussed offering residents a price list for roll off dumpsters through MR&E.
Council and Staff Reports
Councilmember Jessica Vawser gave each council member a list of the residents who remain in code violation. CM Vawser informed council that there are residents that still have roosters inside the city limits and they need to be cited. Council members agree that the roosters need to be dealt with before there are more problems with neighbors. Roosters have been a running concern in towns throughout the region.
Council discussed giving residents with non-running and unlicensed vehicles more time for removal, due to cold temperatures setting in. Cm, Vawser asked all council members to review the ordinance and consider amending or changing the content so it is more enforceable. Cm, Vawser would like to send a copy of the code with the violation notices.
Maintenance Director Moreland informed council that he only received one quote back, regarding the electrical repairs needed for adequate power at Teuscher Square. Council discussed the situation and agreed that the repairs and upgrades need to be complete before the annual Lighting of Teuscher Square.
CM, Eric Christensen made a motion to hire Bear River Electric as soon as possible. Motion passed 4-0. The lighting is scheduled for December 2.
Truck Route Signs
Council discussed the street damage that is occurring due to large trucks using them for thoroughfare and thru streets. Council agreed to order the truck route signs and install them according to the transportation study performed by the city engineers.
CM Vawser asked whether the city has a map that shows the impact areas. Clerk Swensen emailed the impact zone map to CM Vawser. The impact Zone is a requirement of cities in Idaho, and refers to a designated area beginning at the city limits and extending outward, which is designed to show where the city anticipates growth. It allows the city to work with the county on zoning and building issues that will ultimately affect both entities in a coherent way. It also allows for the city the anticipate areas where annexation may occur, extending city services.
Public Comment
Resident Mike Ackerman has printed a stack of post cards with pictures of Bancroft landmarks. Mike asked if he could leave a bundle of the postcards with the city office. Council agreed to keep a bundle of Mike's postcards and have them available for public purchase.
Mike asked the council what they thought about allowing him to place a few fire pits in front of his store, the Outpost, for groups to roast marshmallows. Council members suggested that Mike put the fire pits on the side of his building so they are off the main street to prevent sidewalk damage and ensure safety.
OBITUARY
DeLila May Simons
May 21, 1932 ~ November 22, 2024
DeLila May Simons passed away in Preston, Idaho on November 22, 2024. She was born to Leland and Grace Mickelsen on May 21, 1932, in Bancroft, Idaho. She was raised in the Bancroft area. She married Joel Simons on January 21, 1951, and sealed in the Logan Temple in 1955. They resided in Chesterfield where they owned a ranch/farm operation. They had seven children.
For many years DeLila was found making and decorating cakes. She enjoyed sewing.
DeLila was an active member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in the primary for 33 years, 2 years as a ward missionary, young women’s, served 60 years as a visiting teacher, and served in several Stake callings. Joel and DeLila served for 20 years at the Chesterfield Foundation.
She is survived by her children Jay (Leslie) Simons of Kemmerer Wy., LeAnn (Dennis) Frandsen of Chesterfield, Idaho, Lyle Simons of Fort Bridger, Wy., Dale (Sharlene) Simons of Grace, Idaho, Shyrl (Colette) Simons of Cheterfield, Idhao, Joelene Jones of Filer, Idaho, Grant (Tonya) Simons of Chesterfield, Idaho, her sister Erma Banks of Chesterfield, Idaho and sister-in-law Virginia Mickelsen of Boise Idaho.
She was preceded in death by her husband Joel Simons, Parents, Leland and Grace Mickelsen, eight siblings, grandson Timothy Lyle Simons, granddaughter Stephanie Lynn Hamp, son-on-law Pete Jones and grandson Porter Booth.
Funeral services will be Monday, December 2, 2024, at the Chesterfield Church with a viewing before the funeral form 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Special thanks to Caribou Memorial Assisted Living and the Franklin County Assisted Living in Preston, Idaho.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
November 22, 2024
To Allen Tigert, resident of 64% liberal Blaine County, Idaho. I am a resident of 84% conservative Caribou County, Idaho and in response to your letter to the editor published November 21, 2024, wherein you distress over the Southeastern Idaho District Health Board’s decision to bar the Covid vaccines; I say, many of us here don’t think like you do. We aren’t distraught over this, we are in fact quite relieved to see the winding down of the long drawn out Covid narrative pushed
on us by the government and the medical establishment for five years. I don’t live in fear and neither do the other great residents of Caribou County. We are happy to Trust in the Lord, farm for you, mine for you, and to live in peace from the influence of the over-reaching elected and non-elected government officials and greedy corporations. The Public Health Board should be proud, and not ashamed of their decision.
Keith Crandall Bancroft, Idaho
NEWS OF RECORD
CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF
Jason J Moore, Soda Springs, unlawful overtaking and passing school bus, $300.00, costs $56.50
Drayson Bryan Otero, Montperlier, fail to register vehicle annually, $10.50, costs $56.50
Daxton McCoy Poulson, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Daviti Romanadze, Brooklyn, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Hailey Valentine, Afton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Christopher J Weber, Middleton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Elise Rose Wellard, Bancroft, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Ji Yu, PLS VRDS EST, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
SODA SPRINGS POLICE
Gusy Elsiddig Abdalla Ahmed, Aurora, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50; fails to yield upon approach of an emergency or police vehicle, $33.50, costs $56.50
Michael Andrew Gumport, Jackson, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Carson Aaron Lee, Montpelier, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Jonathan Robert Pitt, Farmington, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Brandy Jo Romriell, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Dalaney Grace Scafani, Whitehall, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Wenbo Sun, Irvine, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition is published weekly at 76 South Main Street, Ste. 207, Soda Springs, Idaho. Postmaster, please mail address corrections to: The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 331, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276. Entered as “periodicals” at the Soda Springs, Idaho Post Office. Subscription rates are strictly in advance -- $55.00 per year delivered in Caribou County, and $67.00 per year delivered outside of Caribou County within the United States. The Idaho Enterprise reserves the right to refuse publication of any or all materials.
Brandon Hall Editor brandon.h@thecityjournals.com
Bryan Dean Scott Publisher bryan.s@thecityjournals.com
Shelly Williams Advertising shelly.w@thecityjournals.com
Phone: 208-766-4773 www.cariboucountynews.com
DeLila May Simons
Council meeting time finally determined for next year
Soda Springs City Council Meeting 11/20
A wide ranging city council meeting was held on November 11, with the most entertaining discussion of the evening being reserved for the issue of meeting start times.
Planning and Zoning
The council meeting began with a discussion of the Zone and ordinance adoption procedure. It was discovered that there was some discrepancy in the city’s regulations regarding posting and hearing procedures for zone changes, as well as some other procedures. The basic choice was between having the state requirements (which are superseding in any case) be the main reference point for city ordinance and map amendment procedures, or the narrower city regulations. Attorney Tom Smith noted that the city has requirements which are more stringent than the state necessitates (for instance, a 1000 foot notification perimeter of affected residences for zoning changes, versus the state’s 300 foot requirement). Smith suggested formally adopting the state’s requirements, which need to be complied with anyway. Alan Skinner suggested that such a move would make the process simpler for Chelsey and Andrea in the city office.
County Hazard Mitigation Plan
The County’s Eric Hobson spoke to the council about the All-Hazard Mitigation Plan. “When the county does one we reach out to our municipalities,” Hobson said. Mike Clements, who is working with the county to author the plan, was on hand to discuss the project and what he’s working on. The web address is available by QR code, and it has been published in the paper before, and again this week.
Clements explained a bit more about the mitigation project. The study allows entities in the county to apply for certain grants after disasters. It allows for econ dev, hazard mitigation, and other types of projects. The plans are designed to anticipate and prepare for hazard reduction and mitigation. There are coordinated with state and local and national authorities. Hazard mitigation goals are part of the requirement for projects, but Clements was clear to explain that the possibilities were larger in scope than might first be imagined. If a project is in the plan, and there is a plan to deal with it, then it’s available for federal funds. New projects can be put in and then can be used in application.
An example Clements presented was sewer line replacement. If the line was upgraded as an earthquake resistant replacement, the majority of the funding could come from the federal government under the AHMP granting process. The city’s concerns about document storage were raised. (The city hall building is prone to flooding, and the permanent records have been undergoing a long digitization process as a result). Clements explained that “you could get the most deluxe system if the purpose was to be disaster proofing, it could qualify for these funds.” He used the example of the city of Bancroft, which was looking at a retention pond liner. A more ambitious liner that served a disaster proofing purpose could also qualify for one of the grants made possible with the AHMP in place. “Your project costs twice as much, but you get somebody else to pay for 75 to 90 percent of it, ” Clements said. A straight replacement is maintenance. But upgrading it for disaster proofing would be mitigation. Clements stressed that he felt the bottom line was “How can I make this project benefit my community, but also mitigate hazards?”
Clements would like the projects by Christmas.
Brock Byram
Byram spoke to the council about 220 south. “We at one point had a blacktop connection to the curb. So now we have an island without access to the street. Is there a way the city would make a blacktop connection to the south side of the back warehouse?”
Council President Mitch Hart, joining remotely, stated, “I appreciate Brock’s request. If we could defer that and give the council and staff a chance to consider the request and some options, we could get back to him in fair-
ly short order.” It was decided to consider the potential fixes, which would hopefully be best for everyone.
Conditional Use Permit
A conditional use permit for a commercial shop, with a view obscured from the public to store a shipping container at the Bear River Electric, was discussed. The contractor clarified that it was not a shipping container, but a permanent structure. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval, and city council approved the permit.
PZ—Jo Turner
New Planning and Zoning member Jo Turner was unable to be sworn in, as she was stuck in winter traffic.
Project Updates
A Main street project walkthrough will be held soon, and a list of items to finish in the spring presented. Striping remains to be completed as well. RFB (flashing light) lighting for crosswalks also needs to be completed, and they are 3 weeks out on those. 3 of those are going in. A+ is repairing a few soft spots in the asphalt.
Trail system is close to being finished for sand. Barns are gone. Working with county for hauling.
Resolution 2024-06
Parental Leave Request Form was discussed. The policy had been revisited due to some concerns about its language and the exact requirements for the city under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
Councilmember Rod Worthington “I appreciate that it’s simple and to the point.”
Councilmember Ryan Carpenter expressed some issues potentially with the 6 weeks paid leave/vacation for parental leave.
Councilmember Gritton stated, “I frankly value our employees, and would be interested in providing whatever benefit, but that has to be balanced by the needs of the city, and I do recall some heads voicing concern about some of the effects this would cause. I would like to find a balance point.”
Councilmember Carpenter said, “I don’t think there’s a disconnect. There’s an opportunity for a spouse for 2 weeks at home paid, 4 weeks nonpaid. I value employees and want to give them every benefit we can. But is this causing a burden to those who have to pick up the slack? It’s a different world and this bonding time certainly is important. I don’t think we should limit the time off, but maybe the paid amount.”
Attorney Tom Smith clarified that under FMLA, 12 weeks of vacation without worry about job security are required by law, but it does not have to be paid. A few years ago, the city made a 6 weeks commitment to paid time off.
The council tabled the resolution for the time being to consult with department heads about the experiences they could report from their departments which needed to be taken into consideration.
The parallel issue of PTO as a way to provide for paid time off was also raised.
Enders
It was suggested that the city does have some interested parties who want to talk about potentially being involved in leasing the Enders building. No specifics were given. As soon as more information becomes available, the council will let the public know. It was determined that Enders will become a consistent agenda item. “The question of what to do with the building is still in front of us,” President Hart noted. “One of the more attractive options is for the city to occupy it, and cohabitate with another entity who can use the other parts of it.”
Councilmember Gritton asked “is there some proposal in the works that justifies delaying this discussion?”
Mayor Robinson indicated that yes, there was a reason that a decision on the building’s future should be tabled.
President Hart explained separately that “one potential tenant of the building has been in discussion, but
it would not preclude the city using the building. I’ll go on the record—I think we should keep the building and occupy it, and I’ll put together a proposal.”
Councilmember Carpenter said “We owe it to ourselves and our citizens to have all options on the table, and I think if there’s something on the table we should consider it and make sure all bases are covered.”
707 Ordinance City Council Annual Time Change
A discussion of a ordinance proposed by Councilmember Paul Gritton then took place. By ordinance, the meeting time for the city council has historically been 5 pm. CM Gritton would like to permanently change it to 6pm. It has temporarily been moved to 6 til the end of the year. Gritton’s ordinance would change the time permanently to 6 p.m.
President Mitch Hart, who has made no secret of his preference for the 5 p.m. start for the meetings, opened by asking CM Gritton for a justification of the time change.
Gritton has also consistently held the position that a 6 p.m. time “makes it easier for citizens to attend and participate, especially those who work until 5 pm. “
The council has been holding its meetings at the 6 p.m. time for several months, and President Hart asked whether there had been a commensurate increase in attendance during that time. It was broadly agreed that there hadn’t been, but Gritton asserted that he was not necessarily seeking a dramatic increase in numbers, but just the potential for that.
President Hart then asked whether the time created an undue burden on staff. Members of the staff indicated that they preferred an earlier start time in order to be able to spend time with their families before it got too late in the day. The issue of city employees being in the building between the end of work at 5 and the meeting at 6 and therefore either being clocked in and adding hours or effectively working off the clock was also raised.
As the discussion evolved through-
out the evening, it boiled down to two main issues—whether the later time allowed for greater public access, and whether that outweighed the burden on city employees to attend the later meeting.
A straw poll of department heads and employees resulted in a clear preference for the 5 p.m. start time, with the majority, including members of the public present, stating that the earlier start time was easier. Several of those present had no strong opinion, and explained that they were required to be there in any case. It was pointed out during the discussion that the county commission met during the morning, and there did not seem to be problems with public access. President Hart noted that the meetings were held twice a month with a clearly posted date, and that if someone wanted to attend the meeting they would likely be able to arrange to do so. It was pointed out by others that there were two citizen input sessions (at the beginning and near the end) of the meeting as well.
CM Gritton reiterated that he “would like to create an atmosphere where we do everything we can to get the citizens to participate, and that’s my primary motivation with this change.”
CM Carpenter stated “I would counter that we can do everything in our power, but we can’t do it for them. It’s twice a month, I’m willing to make the commitment either way. 6 works better for my pocketbook, but I don’t want to cause any undue burden to the city employees.”
After the main talking points were exhausted, a voice vote was called. Councilmember Gritton voted “aye” on the resolution, President Hart voted “nay,” CM Rod Worthington voted “aye,” and Cm Carpenter voted “nay,” resulting in a tie. Mayor Austin Robinson was forced to break the tie for his first time ever.
The mayor voted against the resolution “to respect employees and avoid the lateness…my vote is no.”
Motion to go back to 5 p.m. for the first meeting in January was passed. That meeting will be on the 8th, due to the holiday.
City of Grace—Council Report November 6
This report is adapted from the official minutes recorded by City Clerk Shelley Reeves
Present: Councilmembers Larry Allen, Curtis Toone, Kyle Bingham, Kathy Tillotson, Clerk Shelley Reeves; Zoning Chair Ralph Spackman, Fire Chief Curtis Peck, Gloria Peck, Matt Loerscher.
After the invocation by CM Tillotson, and the pledge led by Clerk Reeves, the minutes from the last two meetings were approved. Bills in the amount of $320,037.33 and payroll in the amounts of $12,345.81 and $11,704.14 were approved.
Fire Chief Curtis Peck
Chief Peck reported that the fire department has assisted the county by responding to an alarm south of city limits. It turned out to be a false alarm. He attended the careers class at the junior high. The Chamber of Commerce will be bringing Santa to the fire station on November 30. He is working on getting quotes from a filling station for the SCBA’s (self-contained breathing apparatus).
Zoning—Ralph Spackman
Chairperson Spackman reported that the zoning commission has been working on the zoning map. They have been researching and trying to make the map match what zone the resident is taxed in. They don’t recommend making changed to the ones as they currently are, but if a citizen wants to change their zone the citizen can file for a zone change amendment.
Alcohol Licenses
City alcohol licenses were presented for 2025 as follows:
Grace Market for beer and wine, $37.50
Fast Stop for beer and wine, $37.50
Grace Lounge for beer and liquor, $262.50
CM Tillotson moved to approve the licenses with had been applied for, and the council unanimously approved them.
CM Tillotson also moved to approve Christmas bonuses for fulltime employees of $400 and $200 for parttime employees. The motion passed.
CM Tillotson also moved to approve the purchase of turkeys and hams for employees, firefighters, zoning commission members, and lighting contest committee. The motion passed.
The Christmas party for the city was discussed. Mayor Barthlome will work on getting someone to cater the meal. The dinner will be held on November 25.
Account 4220.2 within the city was discussed. The account has had a water leak for a long time. Clerk Reeves let the previous homeowner know, but nothing was ever done to remediate the situation. The home was recently sold, and Clerk Reeves let the new homeowners know there was probably a leak on the property. The new homeowner dug up the line, found, and then fixed the leak. The homeowners asked whether they might be able to have the cost of water usage waived that had incurred before the leak was fixed . CM Bingham moved to approve a credit to the resident for $247.88 for the water usage. The motion passed.
Mayor Barthlome thanked the employees for getting the equipment ready for winter, and thanked Clerk Reeves for working on the audit.
Councilmember Allen turned in a letter of resignation due to his moving out of the city. The meeting was adjourned.
A New Perspective On Math At North Gem
BY JODY REEVES
Some students at North Gem High School are bucking the traditional textbook math class and instead opting for one that teaches some real life application of math skills. The official name of the class is Project Based Applied Math. The class is an elective for high school students that covers how math is used in a variety of everyday situations. A better way to describe what goes on in the class would be to picture a hybrid wood shop and home economics class. Mrs. Dewitt is the class instructor and based the class off of a similar class that is offered at the Jr. High level. “We were trying to come up with another elective class for the high school and many of the students saw the Jr. High class and wanted to take it.” Mrs. Dewitt does teach the class but she has had several community members from different areas of expertise come in and help with the different hands-on activities. Some of the activities that the students have worked on include cooking, baby blankets, pillow cases, jewelry boxes and wood shelves. On the day of my visit to the classroom students were beginning to crochet hot pads.
The various projects have been en-
SPORTS
joyed by the students but Mrs. Dewitt makes sure to remind the students that all of the activities involve math in one form or another. “It’s just good for them to see that they do use math every day. No matter how bad they may hate math or don't believe me, they do use it.”
One of the many individuals that has been instrumental in the success of the class is Lisa Barfuss. Lisa works for the Caribou County University of Idaho Extension Office and has worked with youth in the community for as long as anyone can remember. In addition to Lisa offering her own personal knowledge on different topics, through her work at the University of Idaho Extension Office they have helped provide some of the much needed materials for the class. The materials have helped make some of the projects achievable but if you ask Mrs. Dewitt one of the best things Lisa did for the class was bring in Lenrie Collins. Lenrie headed up the wood projects in the class, and he has spent countless hours of his own personal time on to help make them possible. The wood for the projects has primarily come from wood pallets that Lenrie and Lisa collected from across the county. Len-
Treasure Valley Teams Hand Cards A Pair Of Losses
BY JODY REEVES
The Lady Cardinals earned an exciting win over Grace last Tuesday but their busy week was not over. Soda Springs played host to two teams that made the trip over from the Boise area. The Cardinals continued their busy week first by taking on Parma. The Lady Panthers entered the contest having come off of a big win over 4A Homedale.
As the Cardinals and Panthers tipped off this game it was clear that the Panthers had a considerable size advantage. Getting inside shots was tough for Soda Springs but it was far from their only challenge in this game. It was a slow start for both teams with several turnovers and very few shots even being taken. When the first quarter came to a close the score was a dismal 3-4 in favor of the Panthers.
In the second quarter Soda Springs was able to keep it close early but the size of the Panthers earned them plenty of second chance points off of offensive rebounds. Some bad passing by the Cardinals also led to some easy run out scores for the Panthers. As the first half ended the Panthers had pulled away a little to take an 11-20 lead.
The third quarter was another low scoring quarter for the Cardinals. Soda Springs was unable to earn a single field goal and only managed to go three for six from the foul line to add just three points to their total. Meanwhile the Panthers had begun to click on offense using both their inside size as well as good outside shooting to extend the lead to 14-36 at the end of the third.
The fourth quarter was the Cardinals best scoring quarter. Soda was able to outpace the Panthers 15-13
in the quarter but ultimately lost the game by the score of 49-29. Despite the loss Soda Springs found scoring from several different players proving that they may be deeper on the bench than originally thought.
C. Gronning 2, R. Harris 2, A. Goodin 3, G. Moldenhauer 4, E. Wood 6, J. Rasmussen 5, J. Parker 2, H. Mumford 2, J. Tingey 3.
Soda Springs 3 8 3 15 Parma 4 16 16 13
In a quick turnaround the Lady Cardinals took on the Melba Mustangs less than twenty-four hours after their loss to Parma. Though Melba also had some length on their team Soda Springs seemed to match up better with the Mustangs than did with the Panthers. The game seemed pretty even in the early going before both teams went cold to finish the first period with the Cardinals trailing by three.
The second quarter saw Soda continue to struggle on the boards just as they had the night before. Giving up offensive rebounds to the Mustangs as well as getting beat on their full court press led to the Lady Cardinals seeing some foul trouble before halftime. After battling to tie the game at eighteen points a piece the Cards gave up more rebounds and sent the Mustangs to the charity stripe enough to once again find themselves trailing 23-27 headed into the locker room for halftime.
The Cardinals started the third hot going on a 4-0 run. Eventually both teams settled in for a hard fought few minutes. After climbing to a small four point lead with just over a minute left in the quarter Melba called a timeout. Out of the timeout break the Mustangs
rie took the pallets and cut them up then plained and sanded the wood to prepare it for the students' use. It was obvious from my short time in the class that Lenrie is popular amongst the students as well as Mrs. Dewitt who stated, “If you ask me I think that the projects that the kids liked the best are the wood projects. We don't have a wood shop room in the school.” Lenrie was quick to speak up and respond to Mrs. Dewitt saying, “Yes we do. We have it right here in this classroom.” Mrs. Dewitt was not wrong in her assessment of the students feelings. When I asked what their favorite project to work on was, the vast majority responded with the wood projects.
The class has had its share of trial and error. Mrs. Dewitt and the others involved are already seeing ways that they can improve the class and make it even better than it already is. They are also already working on more projects that the students can do. One project they will be working on is a Levi quilt that they plan on giving to the school board to take to their yearly conference to raffle off. There is no doubt that the class will continue to grow and be popular among the student body at North Gem.
It has long been discussed in many circles that today’s schools need to get back to some of the traditional handson classes that are more applicable to everyday life and this is one class that is doing just that. Lenrie wrapped it up this way, “This has been great. If this is something they want to do later on in life they now know how to use their math skills to do a lot of projects. If you don't want wasted material there is a lot of math involved.” I can't speak to the materials in the class but it is clear to me that Mrs. Dewitt’s Project Based Applied Math class has not been wasted on the youth at North Gem High School.
Lady Grizzlies Bounce Back With A Win Over Aberdeen
BY JODY REEVES
Following the tough loss to Soda Springs the Lady Grizzlies next faced off against the Aberdeen Tigers last Thursday once again in front of their home crowd. Following a game full of turnovers and mistakes the Grizzlies hoped that their match up against the Tigers would be a much improved game. By the time this game was over Grace would be able to take away some positives but still show lots of areas where improvements are needed.
The Lady Grizzlies exploded in the first quarter putting up an impressive twenty one points spread out from six different players. Despite the large scoring output the Grizzlies still struggled with some passing and ball movement as well as perimeter defense as they allowed the Tigers to score twelve points that included two buckets from beyond the arch.
The Grizzlies did step up their defense over the next two quarters only
applied some pressure defense and the quarter ended in rough fashion for the Cardinals who now trailed 31-40.
Soda Springs started the fourth quarter aggressive and quickly got the score to 35-40. Unfortunately that would be the closest that they would be able to get. Foul trouble and pressure from the Mustang defense began to take its toll on the Cardinals. In addition to the other issues Melba began to hit the three point shot and the lead got as big as eighteen. Soda did their best to fight back into the game but could not get it back to single digits again.
allowing ten points while putting up twenty five of their own.
The Tigers did not go down without a fight however. Aberdeen had four different players score tacking on a total of eighteen points in the fourth quarter. It was the only quarter that the Tigers outscored the Lady Grizzlies. Grace ended this game with a dominant 61-40 win. The Grizzlies still have a long road ahead of them but they are headed in the right direction. They have a good combination of youth and experience that once they mesh has the potential to surprise some teams that may be overlooking them.
The Grizzlies had a good balance of scoring in this game with eight girls putting points on the board. E. Olenslager 4, K. Stoddard 6, K. Christensen 9, K. Mansfield 10, L. Gilbert 6, P. Steadman 6, C. Yost 8, T. Jorgensen 12,
Grace 21 15 10 15
Aberdeen 12 4 6 18
Soda Springs lost this game 51-62. Coach Gronning continues to fine tune his team as he has already used several different starting lineups and gave several younger girls some minutes to prove themselves. This team has some good shooters and some great speed. Once they clean up some of the mistakes they will be in a place where they can win these close games.
C. Gronning 13, A. Goodin 9, G. Moldenhauer 10, J. Rasmussen 12, H. Mumford 7.
Soda Springs 9 14 8 20 Melba 12 15 13 22
Several of the students said they enjoyed the woodworking projects the most. Back Row L to R-Lenrie Collins, Alex Curtis, William Wakley, Parker Hill. Front Row L to R-Eliza Ball, Sage Daniels, Kymberli Jensen.
Class members starting their newest project, crocheting hot pads.
Students showing off some of their projects. Pictured here with jewelry boxes and baby blankets.
Lady Cards Edge Out Grizzlies In Their First Head To Head
BY JODY REEVES
As will happen from time to time, two of our local teams faced off on the hardwood two times just eight days apart. Because of the fast turnaround and the fact that the Enterprise is a weekly publication, the second game of this season’s series will have already been played before the reporting of the first. With any luck the second game will be as exciting as the first one and we will be able to bring it back to mind in next week's edition. As for game one this is how things played out. Both the Cardinals and the Grizzlies entered this game very early in their seasons. Each team came into the game with just one other game already played. The Cardinals fell in their season opener at Bear Lake while the Grizzlies got a big win at West Side. The two teams have started the season looking a little rusty and not quite playing up to their potential in the early stages. As things tipped off in this one the Lady Grizzlies strike first with an early jump shot from Evie Olenslager. From there things really slowed down on the scoreboard as both teams struggled to even get shots off let alone put any in the basket. The next made basket would not come until the 3:20 mark of the first quarter. The Lady Grizzlies went on to score eight total points in the first while the lid stayed on the basket for the Cardinals.
After finishing the first quarter with zero points and trailing 8-0 the Cardinals started the second quarter with a flurry of scoring going on an 8-2 run. Abby Goodin was a spark for the Cardinals as she finished the quarter with seven points. The hot hand of Goodin combined with an aggressive press quickly closed the gap between the two teams. The Grizzlies got six very needed points from their bench in the second as they were able to hold the lead going into halftime with a score of 18-13. In the third quarter the two teams
were evenly matched going blow for blow for the majority of the period. However as the quarter wound down the Lady Cardinals came with a flurry of scoring and were able to tie the game at twenty eight points a piece with very little time left on the clock. The Lady Grizzly’s Kamryn Mansfield got a put back with just eight seconds left to give the lead back to Grace as the quarter came to a close. Tess Jorgensen was the stand out player in the third quarter scoring eight of the Grizzlies twelve points. Meanwhile the Lady Cardinals split their fifteen points during the third between five different players including three point shots by Courtnee Gronning, Abby Goodin, and Gracie Moldenhauer. Just seconds into the fourth the game was once again all knotted up. Grace tried to pull away again but could only build a four point lead that was cut to just two at the midway point of the fourth quarter. The Lady Grizzlies were able to cling to a slim lead for the next minute and a half when at that point the game was once again tied up. The Cardinals really ratcheted up the pressure and the teams traded baskets. The continued pressure caused problems for the Grizzles and with just one minute twenty seconds left in the game Soda Springs grabbed their first lead 40-38. Following a Grace turnover the Cardinals ran the clock all the way down to fourteen seconds before Grace would foul to send Goodin to the line to shoot two foul shots. Goodin sank both shots giving Soda Springs the four point lead. Grace quickly moved the ball down the court but wasted valuable time getting a shot off. Grace freshman Callie Yost got a put back off of a missed deep shot and was fouled with just two and a half seconds left. Yost missed the and one opportunity and Goodin grabbed the rebound for the Cardinals getting fouled in the process with just 1.1 seconds left on the clock. Goodin knocked down both foul shots and the Cardinals came away with
the 44-40 win on the road.
The rematch will have taken place on Tuesday in Soda Springs. Watch for next week's edition on how that game turned out. Goodin was the game's leading scorer with eighteen points. Goodin was followed closely by Grace’s Tess Jorgensen who had sixteen points.
Soda Springs: A. Goodin 18, C. Gronning 5, R. Harris 2, M. Kempe 4, G. Moldenhauer 11, E. Wood 4.
Grace: T. Jorgensen 16, E. Olenslager 6, K. Stoddard 4, K. Mansfield 4, P. Steadman 6, C. Yost 4.
Soda Springs 0 13 15 16 Grace 8 10 12 10
Right from the tip the Cardinals and Grizzlies played a hard fought competitive game.
Gracie Moldenhauer (Soda Springs) is guarded closely by Kallie Stoddard (Grace) while teammates Rosie Harris (Soda Springs) and Tessica Jorgensen (Grace) look on.
Tessica Jorgensen (Grace), Gracie Moldenhauer (Soda Springs), and Rosie Harris (Soda Springs) battle for the rebound in what was a physical game.
Abby Goodin puts the finishing touch on the Cardinal win with a pair of made foul shots.