Governor Little delivers State of the State
As the year 2025 kicked into gear this week, Idaho Governor Brad Little gave the governor’s State of the State report on last year’s successes and this year’s upcoming initiatives. Similar to the State of the Union address which will be delivered by President Trump later in the year, the State of the State is primarily a chance for the executive in question to speak positively about their agenda, unveil a few new programs, and highlight the themes and topics which are expected to be important causes for the administration.
If there could be said to be topline themes for the speech, which was titled “Keeping Promises,” they could probably be said to include a direct association with the agenda so far laid out by President elect Trump, and a suggestion that Idaho as a state should serve as a model for federal legislative priorities and executive values. In fact, the very first statement in the governor’s speech following his acknowledgement of the other officials in the chamber was “Just two months ago on the eve of a historic presidential election, America teetered between two very different futures for the next four years and beyond. One future guaranteed the status quo—out of control federal spending, a lawless open border, sky high inflation, onerous regulations, and a depressed economy that traps families’ potential. Americans rejected that failed path an instead re-elected a man with a very different vision for America—Donald Trump. President Trump’s vision for America actually looks a lot like Idaho!...safe communities, bustling economic activity, increasing incomes, tax relief, fewer regulations, fiscal responsibility, and common-sense values.”
The opening of the speech was not abandoned as it went along; Little referred to his excitement to work with the incoming President on a shared vision throughout the remainder of the speech. He also, though, invoked a spirit of reaching across the aisle. “I want to congratulate all our legislators on their elections and recognize the new members of leadership in both parties. As a former legislator and member of Senate leadership, I understand the challenges and rewards of bringing everyone together. I commit to all my legislative partners that we will work productively together this legislative session.” The remark is perhaps a rejoinder to the criticism of the last legislative session, which was often seen as not having been especially productive.
In line with the “Keeping Promises” theme of the speech, Little reiterated the tax cuts that had been given to residents of the state over the past five years, much of them made possible by budgetary surpluses, the nature of which has been the subject of some back and forth between the parties. “I am proposing yet another round of tax relief for hardworking Idaho families--$100 million—on top of the $4.6 billion we have already given back to Idahoans over the past five years,” Little stated, as well as “we stand ready to implement President Trump’s promised tax cuts.” The exact nature of any federal tax cuts is not known at this point, as President-elect Trump will not be sworn in for two more weeks. Tax cuts are certainly an anticipated legislative priority for the incoming Republican government, but again, there are no detailed specifics yet.
After discussing the importance of tax cuts, Little shifted to promoting his vision for education in the state. “We promised and delivered unprecedented investments in schools, the American worker, water, roads, fire, outdoor recreation, and other infrastructure without raising taxes…My Keeping Promises plan builds on those investments by adding more support for schools—on top of the 80 percent increase in state funding we championed for education since I took office.”
Little then talked about what he termed “education freedom.” “We lead the nation in expanding and supporting public charter schools,” Little said. “Public charter schools are un-
questionably popular in our state, serving about 30,000 student, up 30 percent from just five years ago. I support charter schools because they offer families more options for their children’s education while providing taxpayers the accountability and transparency they deserve. We are also one of the few states that enable parents to choose the best school for their children regardless of where they live, and our popular Empowering Parents program offers grants to support students’ education outside of the classroom.”
Among specific policy announcements that Little made were $50 million “to further expand education options for Idaho families…for students with unique physical or developmental conditions.” School choice has been a hot button issue in Idaho’s legislature over the past several sessions, and Little was clear to add that “Just as we expect the following form our public schools, any school choice measure I would consider must be done the Idaho way, which means it is fair, responsible, transparent, and accountable. It must prioritize the families that need it most and it must not take funds away from public schools. We will do so while continuing to prioritize first and foremost our public schools. Adequately funding public schools is both our constitutional and moral obligation, and we will not abandon that obligation. We have significantly improved teacher pay and health benefits, increased funding for literacy, and began to address the longstanding facilities needs in schools across Idaho.”
Little then noted that even with the positive improvements he listed there are still “known gaps” in education funding. Little stated that his Keeping Promises plan will commit $150 million to public schools, although no specifics were given about the destination of those funds.
Returning to his opening remarks, Little provided an example of what he termed “common sense values” in his support of the Boise State University women’s volleyball team, and recent controversies over the role of transgender athletes in women’s STATE OF THE STATE On Page 2
NEWS IN BRIEF
Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau resigns Prime Minister for over a decade, Justin Trudeau announced his intention to resign from the position on Monday, as soon as the ruling Liberal Party of Canada chooses a new party leader. Trudeau, 53, has been under steadily increasing negative pressure over the last year as a number of allies inside his government have resigned, and opinion polls have found that growing numbers of voters are dissatisfied with the direction Trudeau has been leading the county. With an economy linked to and in many ways shared with the United States, the same economic problems that dogged the Biden administration have put the party in a precarious position with voters. The issues of inflationary pressures and a high cost of living that has not been mitigated by increased wages have resulted in a lack of public confidence in the government to right the economic ship and make the situation more responsive to Canadian consumers. The tariffs proposed by US President-elect Trump loom as a potential further economic shock to the Canadian economy. A new party leader will serve as PM until the general election in October of 2025. At present, the Conservative party is outpolling the Liberal party by more than 20%.
Demi Moore wins first acting award At Sunday’s Golden Globes award show, actress Demi Moore won her first ever major acting award for her performance in “The Substance.” Moore, who is 62, has been acting for over 45 years, beginning her career with a group of actors nicknamed the “brat-pack” at the time. The group includes actors such as Rob Lowe, John Cusack. Kevin Bacon, Kiefer Sutherland, Ally Sheedy, and James Spader, who all became famous in teen comedies of the 1980s. Moore has been vocal about some of the negative pressures she encountered in Hollywood, and said after the win, “I’ll just leave you with one thing that I think this movie is imparting,” Moore said of the film. “In those moments, when we don’t think we’re smart enough, or pretty enough, or skinny enough, or successful enough, or basically just not enough: I had a woman say to me, ‘Just know, you will never be enough, but you can know the value of your worth if you just put down the measuring stick.”
After much anticipation and a few delays, the new elementary school officially opened its doors to students on Monday for the start of 2025.
Students spent the last week at the old elementary school right next door saying their goodbyes to the building, dotting their I’s and crossing their T’s, and in some cases, writing their names on the walls. Students were given permission to “leave their mark” on the classrooms and other special areas of the building as they prepared to say goodbye. The building is planned for demolition, of course, but in the meantime the signatures of those who most recently roamed its halls will help maintain a
NEW SCHOOL On Page 3
Gas prices fell in 2024
A year end report from the AAA found that overall gas prices were down an average of 34 cents per gallon in 2024 over 2023. In terms of Idaho specifically, the salient part of the report was that the average gas prices in Idaho—which are sometimes as much as half a dollar higher than the national average!—were more in line with the countrywide fuel rates. 2023 was a notably bad year for consumers on the gas front, with the Russian invasion of Ukraine and middle east conflicts causing sustained uncertainty in the fuel producing countries that underwrite the systemic costs to the west. Unlike 2023, which saw fuel prices in the $4.00 plus range for much of the summer, 2024 saw a peak of $3.60 across the state on average.
Governor Brad Little speaking in Malad in 2023. The State of the State address was broadcast from Boise.
Students and teachers at the new Malad Elementary school wait for parents at the end of their first full day.
First Baby arrives in Oneida County!
It’s the time again! Coming bright and early in January, Oneida county’s first baby was born on the afternoon of January 3, and is named Mazie Sue Langston. The previous two first babies—Lainey Jo McClellan and Cedar Hill—were both born on January 2, and Mazie is apparently continuing the trend of showing up as early as possible. The family is recovering from the excitement and exhaustion of the big event, but we were able to speak with grandma Trissa about her new granddaughter.
Trissa told us: “On the evening of January 2, Dale and Simiron Langston received the call to begin the induction for the birth of their second child. They grabbed their packed bags, dropped off their 4-year old daughter Avie at Grandma Trissa and Papa Sterling Nesbit’s house, and headed to the Logan Regional Hospital.
Simi received induction medication throughout the night, and the following day, January 3rd, Mazie Sue Langston was born at 1:23 p.m. She weighed 6 lbs 11 oz, and measured 18 inches long. Mazie’s Grandma Nesbit arrived just in time to witness her granddaughter’s arrival.
Aunts Bayli and Sedar Nesbit, along with sister Avie and Papa Nesbit waited in the hall for the exciting news. Though Mazie was happy and healthy, she initially needed some added oxygen and a few hours in the NICU to help her breathe easier on her own. Mazie Sue is named after Grandma Susan Langston, a gift she will surely cherish her whole life.
The family brought their new baby home the next day, and they are adjusting to life as a family of four!”
The first baby contest has been conducted by The Idaho Enterprise since 1957. Including 2025’s first baby, there have been 35 boys and 33 girls. The latest a first baby arrived was in 2004 when Bridger Ron Myers didn’t arrive until April 11! Five have been born right on January 1 – Josiah Samuel Helmandollar in 2021, Claire Adeline Hornecker in 2018, Aspen Jade Chelette in 1999,
Keeton Chesney Isaacson in 1998 and Craig Allen Jensen in 1967. Mazie joins an illustrious company of names and faces you might know, including the very first on the list, Scott Alder, who still lives in town!
PAST FIRST BABIES
2024 – Lainey Jo McClellan, Jan. 2
2023 – Cedar Hill, Jan. 2
2022 – Rhyatt Nimer, Jan. 10. 2021 – Josiah Samuel Helmandollar, Jan. 1
2020 – Haylee Grace Purdum Jan. 21
2019 – Avery Boyd Eliason – Jan. 8
2018 – Claire Adeline Hornecker, Jan. 1
State of the State
sports. The line “I was incredibly proud of the Boise State University women’s volleyball team for standing up for what’s right” received what was probably the afternoon’s largest spontaneous and sustained applause from the assembled lawmakers.
Moving on to an issue that certainly affects this area, Little discussed “the long-term decline of water in the aquifer that sustains Idaho agriculture.” Water and water rights issues are no stranger to southeast Idaho, and Little’s remarks sought to reassure farmers that the state was dedicated to maintaining its ability to regulate those rights within the state. “Our farmers worked hard to secure a new water deal that safeguards Idaho’s water sovereignty. Friends, let’s thank our farmers. Along with our citizen legislators and Lt. Governor Scott Bedke, they crafted a new plan that maintains control of our water destiny, not other states, not the feds, and not the men and women in robes. My plan helps tackle the backlog of unfunded water projects because securing water for future generations and protecting Idaho agriculture requires both the new plan and continued investments that have proven to raise water levels in the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer—the lifeblood of Idaho agriculture.”
Little then discussed how his Keeping Promises plan would provide additional bonuses to allow the state to hire and retain wildland firefighters for the state’s always busy fire season. Several firefighters in the audience were acknowledged by the governor to applause. While there was no specific policy commitment from the governor’s office, Little stated that he was asking the Legislature to “properly fund the fire suppression account so these firefighters know we’ve got their back.” He again returned to the explicit contrast between the Biden and Trump administrations on the topic: “Last summer, I called out the feds for not putting out wildfires more aggressively. The State of Idaho leads on fire and forest management where the feds have failed. Idahoans are tired of choking on smoke for weeks on end. I look forward to working with the Trump administration to boldly
2003 - Peyton Loyd Briggs, Jan. 25
2002 - Shaylee Kate Broadus, Jan. 7
2001 - Brayden Jay Porter, Mar. 2
2000 - Makyla Brooks Madsen, Feb. 3
1999 - Aspen Jade Chelette, Jan. 1
1998 - Keeton Chesney Isaacson, Jan. 1
1997 - Samantha Rae Daniels, Jan. 7
1996 - Bryce Mykell Gibbs, Jan. 2
1995 - Kacey Ray Smith, Jan. 7
1994 - Jose Jesus Lopez, Jan. 6
1993 - Marcus Ray Evans, Feb. 20
1992 - Kevin James Porter, Jan. 25
1991 - Theron Eugene Hill, Feb. 22
1990 - Gregory Burke Bybee, Jan. 30
1989 - Sierra Louise Walker, Feb. 27
1988 - Brandon Hyrum Bybee, Jan. 2
1987 - Whitney Deene Wakley, Jan. 2
1986 - Daniel Duane Golightly, Feb. 13
1985 - Lindsey Jo Jacobsen, Jan. 13
1984 - Trevor Jay Jones, Feb. 6
1983 - Tamara Ann Wittman, Jan. 5
1982 - Camille LaRee Stayner, Jan. 5
1981 - Rodney Leon Parrish, Jan. 5
1980 - William Jedd Ward, Jan. 31
1979 - Jamie Hubbard, Jan. 5
1978 - Shenell Madsen, Jan. 6
1977 - Jenny Rae Hawkins, Jan. 4
1976 - Korrie Allen, Jan. 13
1975 - Christopher Daniel Scott, Jan. 3
1974 - Crystal Deschamps, Jan. 10
1973 - Bobby Connor, Jan. 26
1972 - Todd Hubbard, Jan. 4
2017 – Kinzley Lorraine Hamilton, Jan. 4
2016 – Harper Ann Maughan, Jan. 12
2015 – Freya Nichole Bello, Jan. 5
2014 – Timber Raymond Hubbard, Jan. 31
2013 – Megan Jann Moss, Jan. 16
2012 – Burklee Edwards, Jan. 10
2011 – Dane Verlin Williams, Jan. 11
2010 – Ashton Lee Purdum, Jan. 6
2009 – Jentz Lynn Peacock, Jan. 7
2008 - Kameron Dean Hunt, Jan. 4
2007 - Ryan Scott Jensen, Jan. 13
2006 - Riley Kope Taylor-Riding, Jan. 5
2005 - Dakota Guy Williams, Jan. 17
2004 - Bridger Ron Myers, April 11
transform how wildfire and out western lands are managed.”
Little announced plans to increase transportation funding to improve existing roads and the infrastructure around commercial transportation.
Deviating from his prepared remarks for a bit, Little had fun coining the term C.O.W.s, by which he meant to invoke those from California, Oregon, and Washington, who he noted were the primary source of the population boom happening across the state. “We are victims of our own success,” Little said. “Growth” does come with many opportunities, but it also comes with challenges. The cost of owning a home is just too expensive for too many Idaho families. You have heard me state my goal from day one—to make Idaho the place where our children and grandchildren choose to stay and for the ones who have left to choose to come home. It’s difficult to achieve that goal when home ownership is so far out of reach.” Little stated that he was looking forward to working with legislators to remove regulatory barriers and improve the permitting process in order to keep up with housing demands. There were no specifics mentioned, but housing has been a key issue in the county in recent years as
growth has accelerated. The tension between the need for more housing in the area and the desire on the part of local officials to make sure development is in harmony with the public’s vision for the future has been at the heart of a number of development code and zoning map discussions.
Little championed his LAUNCH program, which promotes grants for training programs designed to provide immediately practical work skills for graduated Idaho high school students. According to Little, “two-thirds of the students who went on to an Idaho school last year used a LAUNCH grant. Community college attendance surged 15 percent…LAUNCH convinced those who would never have considered training after high school to go on. Many of these students will support the industries that help us keep up with growth—jobs in construction, auto technicians, and plumbers, along with welders, electricians, and a host of other professions.”
Little once again linked himself to Trump in saying: “There is one major takeaway from the historic presidential election two months ago: the working people of America want someone fighting for them. President Trump himself said, ‘We must embrace new
1971 - Michele LaRee Hobson, Jan. 8
1970 - Lisa Lynne Anderson, Jan. 24
1969 - Kathryn Alane Thomas, Feb. 16
1968 - Bonnie Anne Davis, Jan. 2
1967 - Craig Allen Jensen, Jan. 1
1966 - Vera Denise Thomas, Jan. 13
1965 - Martha Marie Mabey, Jan. 4
1964 - Kurtis Gambles Kent, Jan. 25
1963 - Suzanne Evans, Jan. 5
1962 - Earl H. Jones, Jan. 2
1961 - Scott Clark Wakley, Jan. 5
1960 - Cole Gardner, Jan. 8
1959 - John David Tovey, Jan. 10
1958 - Carol Buehler, Jan. 7
1957 - Stephen Scott Alder, Jan. 6
and effective job-training approaches.’ Mr. President, we welcome the opportunity to work with you to structure innovative, effective workforce training programs like Idaho’s LAUNCH across the nation!”
Little noted that he, and by extension Idaho, was ready to work with Elon Musk as the director of the new “Department of Government Efficiency,” or DOGE, named after an early example of cryptocurrency. According to Little, DOGE “is already looking to Idaho for the blueprint on how to cut red tape, stimulate economic growth, and streamline government. As the least regulated state in the county, Idaho has an incredible story to share—one worth replicating elsewhere, including Washington D.C.”
As he approached the end of his speech, Little shifted from highlighting the lack of regulation in some areas of Idaho to praising regulatory efforts in the areas of drug policy and the internet. Little pointedly called out the state of Oregon as “drug-friendly,” which he said sends a welcome message to “nefarious criminals” unlike Idaho. Little noted that over the last several years, violent crime in Idaho was down by 17 percent, and the state has been listed as one of the top ten safest in some metrics.
Little praised the efforts of the Idaho State Police, who “just wrapped up their fourth mission to the border. They intercepted deadly drugs and apprehended criminals coming across the open border under the Biden administration, No other state has completed more missions to border states than Idaho.”
Little announced a new prosecutor for Northern Idaho who would be exclusively in charge of drug prosecutions.
Little ended his speech by saying: “As we prepare to celebrate the 250th birthday of our great country, we reflect on what it means to be an American. Our past and future are rooted in freedom and self-reliance while taking care of each other and with a constant faith in God. To the people of Idaho, as your elected leaders, we promise to continue governing responsibly and to uphold freedom and common sense in our decisions.”
Simiron, Dale, and Avie Langston with new daughter and sister Mazie Sue Langston.
continued from front cover
Governor Little met with members of the American Legion during his last visit to Oneida County.
New School
presence as the final, FINAL steps in the process are completed. A farewell tour of the old school building is still in the works, and the public is invited to bid on items from the school on January 13-14 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This week, members of local government agencies, non-profits, and Oneida School District staff have first pass at items left over that the school district does not intend to retain.
Among the materials which are still in the school are a wide range of institutional furniture, fittings, shelving, and that type of thing. In addition, of course, are many things that have no practical value, but may be sentimental for those in the community with strong memories or bonds to the school. If the looks on the faces of those who have been seen wandering the now mostly deserted halls are good indicators, the whole process brings with it a lot of emotion and refection.
Malad Elementary Principal Sarah McIntyre stated that the first day in the building was “a good day! There are still some things we need to work out and get used to, but so far it’s been a very good first day.”
That sentiment was shared by the other teachers who were outside monitoring the new “parent pickup lane” in the front of the school.
One local parent who won’t be named (though I can verify that she has complained about the pickup line at the school more than once from her desk in the corner) stated that the new arrangement is “a lot [edited for con-
tent] better than it was before!”
In addition to being more efficient, the new setup is also considerably safer, which the same parent mentioned. The line of sight from the office to the street was occluded by structures and trees in the past, whereas now the main office has a clear view of the parent pickup lane and can serve as an additional set of eyes.
The buses are also now located entirely on the west side of the building, which creates a clearer distinction between students waiting for rides and those going to the bus. It’s obviously early yet, and there were some initial hiccups that kept the first day from being completely unproblematic, but so far so good!
New Elementary School in Review
2024 was a big year with a lot of highlights. From sports championships to the completion of the new Elementary school, from an election that is finally over to the impending addition of a Little Caesar’s to the newly renamed “On the Go” (which will likely always be called KJ’s and confuse anyone new to town from here on out), a lot happened over the course of the year. We don’t have space in a single issue to bring you a retrospective of the past year as well as keep up with unfolding events, so we present a series of highlight stories in upcoming papers picking up on major news stories from last year, as well as updates about those stories as we start the new year.
Certainly one of the biggest stories
The Oneida County Fairboard is accepting bids for the stock contractor for the Oneida County Cowboy Classic to be held August 14 & 15, 2025.
Bids must be submitted by January 15, 2025 to: Oneida County Fairboard P.O. Box 13 Malad, ID 83252
Accepting bids for a one-year contract.
For further information regarding this, please contact Diane at 208-390-3601 or Eric at 208-840-1515.
of the year, and one that promises to keep developing as this year rolls along, is the construction of the new elementary school. The biggest positive is of course the completion of the new school itself. As has been attested to many times by those who work, volunteer, and even just visit the elementary school, the “old” building was past its safe and useful life. In addition to potential problems with the roof, earthquake proofing, heating costs, outdated infrastructure (especially with regard to technology), and other issues, concerns about creating a secure and securable environment for students also compelled the building of a new facility after many decades of service by the old one.
A bond was passed for the construction of the school that was based on the in-place system of allocating funds to districts based on enrollment numbers. Since the Idaho Home Learning Academy was counted for enrollment purposes as part of the Oneida School District, the funds were sufficient to allow for new school construction without raising taxes on residents. Changes on the literal last day of the most recent legislative session changed the funding apparatus for districts in a way that will affect the bond going forward. The change was retroactively punitive, according to the lawsuit filed by the district against the state, which is still under litigation after a judge declined to outright dismiss it. The likely outcome is that the bond period will be extended to a more standard ten or twenty years, rather than the unprecedented few years that had
been initially planned.
Superintendent Jon Abrams has been clear in his comments that the original plan for the school funding was perfectly in line with the state policy at the time, and that he had consulted with legal experts on the matter before moving forward. Since the changes at the state level only affected one school district, Oneida, it can be reasonably inferred that the change was something of a response to what Oneida had been able to do to free up funds for a much needed new school.
In any case, the new school will provide a much more modern and safe learning environment for the next generations of Malad kids, regardless of the length of the bond. As the process moves forward, bonding capacity will free up to allow for the completion of an auditorium and other facilities. The ball fields on the south end of the high school are another part of the initial bond, and are nearing completion themselves. As the ballfield nears completion, we are excited for the spring sports that will be giving it a test drive.
The litigation of the case will likely drag on, but in the meantime the building is open and a much safer environment for local students. Considering the love given to the “old” school, and the many extra years of service it provided, the “new” school will almost certainly be a beloved fixture of the town. As can be the case, it will be something remembered by the current kids’ generation with as much affection and nostalgia as the “old” school is to the older generations.
continued from front cover
Some of the messages left over the years in appreciation of the staff that kept the school clean and running were still up this week in the halls.
Dotty Evanson with a copy of Dick and Jane discovered in the library.
Mrs. Jones’ second grade class left this nice note for the lunch staff.
Principal McIntyre keeps a close eye on the brand new pickup area.
Students were allowed to leave their marks on the walls before they left the building for the last time.
There were signs of this sort left up all over the school--thinking the janitors, teachers, lunch staff, administrators, and others.
Malad City Council
Editor’s Note: Everyone in the office thinks that I am most likely suffering from some mental illness that makes me look forward to writing City Council and County Commission meetings. But I do! I think it’s fascinating and important to see how the gears of a local government grind, and I’ve been privileged to be allowed to take part in those meetings as a visitor for several years. That being said, sometimes space and other issues simply won’t permit running a full report in a timely manner, and that honestly makes me a little sad when it happens. This is a truncated version of the normal reports for November and December, but at this point its’s better something in a reasonably late time than nothing immediately.
Part of the November City Council Report was truncated for space, and precedes the shorter December report here.
NOVEMBER
Code Enforcement
Picking up on the topic of crosswalk safety, John Christophersen noted “One thing I noticed as a deputy—it surprised me how many people in this community did not yield to pedestrians. That’s something that I noticed in my patrol.”
Christophersen stated that he had received calls from the sheriff’s office regarding parking issues. He explained that he is not equipped to do traffic stops, and his purview includes 48 hour parking and abandoned vehicles.
“Since I’ve been back—I’ve had a lot of dog complaints in the last couple months. I had one the other day that was vicious. It was even aggressive toward me,” he noted. In consultation with the local vet, a tranquilizer gun was recommended.
The solution was deemed to be a vet administrated gun, where the doctor fills the darts. The estimated cost is between 300-1000 dollars for a full kit. The downside is that it can take 8-10 minutes.
Christophersen was asked about the frequency of vicious dogs. “I’ve had three the last month. They had one at the school where they kept kids in from school. A recent one was on notice, and has been marked as a vicious animal. I’d use some discretion. I wouldn’t use it on just any dog,” he said.
Lance Tripp stated, “I feel like you know more than anyone what you need to do your job.”
Christophersen said, “I’m getting to where I know which dog people are calling about. I give them 5 days to come to the city office to pay their fine and what they need to do, then I issue a fine.”
A motion to approve up to $1000 for the equipment was passed.
Christophersen has been in communication with Attorney Brett Evanson about ordinance violations, especially abandoned vehicles on properties. He mentioned that there were some things that were ordinances, but had originally been passed to allow the sheriff authority to enforce some laws such as loitering, cur-
few, etc., but which were not really the appropriate things for the CO to be policing.
Attorney
A presentation on water rights then followed, based on information Brett Evanson received from a specialized water rights attorney.
Maps were displayed to the council showing the Malad City Water right no 15-4078 (spring) north of town, 15-4165 (spring, ne of town, and usable by the cemetery), 15-4166 (north of town, usable in city limits), 15-7151 (3 wells inside the city, usable inside CL), 15-7299 (wells within city limits).
The discussion proceeded to explore which water rights were currently being used, whether they could be used immediately if they were not currently being used, what would happen to the water claims if they were not in use, and what the laws regarding the claims were.
It was communicated that if the city doesn’t start using them, it will definitely lose them.
A recommendation to claim the fourth well under 15-7151 as a point of diversion was made.
The two ground water rights combined can pump 651gallons/min and 794g/min.
Authorized place of use for all wells is within the city limits, other than the one by the cemetery.
The question was raised about whether the city has annexed any property since the rights were secured. A piece on Bush avenue and near the Fairgrounds were cited as fitting that description.
Business License
Business Licenses were granted for the following businesses: Bear River Animal Hospital on 100 Wass Avenue which took over the space from Canyon View, and Let’s Play Music with Maggie Lund.
Idaho Community Foundation
A change to the way funds from the ICA were used was discussed. The Malad Community Foundation Board has not met recently. The ICA gave a check to the city for Playground equipment. Lance raised the idea that putting aside some funds a year to buy features one or two pieces at a time. The idea is to replace the existing equipment first. Perhaps replacing the middle feature and moving it to the location near the pickleball court.
Playground
The issue of the city park’s playground equipment was raised. Many members noted that they had heard people complaining about that playground. Lance Tripp is going to move forward with a committee to start figuring out what to do with the park situation.
December--The Malad City Council met for a regular meeting on 12/11
PZ
Melanie Coleman had approached Shelly Williams about wanting to put
up a sign on school property. She was advised that the property was surrounded by a residential zone, so it would need to be approved by way of variance. It was suggested to put [the LED sign] on a timer, so as not to be a nuisance. PZ will not be meeting for the month. Bylaws make them meet 9 times a year, and they usually take December off.
Rec Lance Tripp advised that a group of citizens had formed a soccer league, and the city was planning to work with them, but will know more in January.
Tyler Webster
An estimate to replace the water line between 2nd and 1st. was being sought. This will probably require new additional infrastructure. The line is on Bannock, and is an “ancient” line. Webster asked “Do we want to remove the old line, or abandon in place?” A preliminary estimate was $25K to take it out. One fallback plan is to mark the location on reference materials so that it doesn’t cause problems during new construction. $80K for the new line, plus boxes, setters, etc was guessed.
An estimate for crosswalks was discussed. Flashing lights have to be audible. The lowest quote was for LED flashing school lights, which came in at $9,900 with paint for a set. The best one is solar powered, button push, $6k a piece, for $12k total.
N Main 1st W—problems with the sidewalk have been raised, and it needs to be redone. If this was the route, it would force kids into the side of the road.
A discussion about the laws of a designated route was had. The route will attempt to funnel kids through a certain path, and require fewer crosswalks/signs.
The exact course of the recommendation (“designated”) walking route to school will be more thoroughly discussed in January. The designation will affect the required
signage and traffic flow near the school property.
Code Enforcement
“I’ve been working on trying to get the streets cleaned up,” John Christophersen said. He had one truck moved from the trailer park, and some others in progress. One letter for a property on Main was served. Shawn Hamilton will work with the owner to scrap the car, which requires a clear title.
He ordered a dart gun and scanner. The scanner was from money donated by a citizen. The scanner checks to see if dog is chipped. One dog sighted by Christophersen is on Facebook as missing from Utah, a cream colored doodle.
One dog bite was reported, and the animal’s owner was put on notice.
Hospital called sheriff, who called John. Code Enforcement feels like he should take those calls. The vicious dog offense is an infraction, a civil call. Nothing requires the police to report dog bites via Idaho Code. A second offense gives the officer the right to destroy the dog humanely.
Brett Evanson
Evanson advised that any changes to rates need to be made by ordinance.
Mayor Hawkins
An issue with the way the building inspections were designated was raised. Tory Richardson (the county’s building inspector, contracted by the city) isn’t really in charge of double checking with the city code, and it isn’t really part of Shelly Williams’ job either. So one solution would be to pay Shelly Williams to cross check permits with the relevant code on a Part time basis.
A related issue was whether Christophersen was supposed to enforce building permit applications for structures he saw being built. Any structural/plumbing/electrical remodel needs a permit, though often they are not acquired.
CORRECTION
In last week’s edition, both the paper and the caption of the included image labeled the wonderful tour guide for Samaria Welsh Christmas as “Geneal White.” Geneal White is not in the picture, rather, it is Stepha-
nie Ball. I’d blame having two conversations at once for the error, but my kids assure me that nobody ever makes mistakes while multitasking so it can’t be that. Apologies to both Geneal and Stephanie!
Grandparents Only
Not recommended for parents or kids...
By Gramma Dot
Elle Evanson is a Swiftie. All she wanted for Christmas was a ticket to a Taylor Swift concert. She was disappointed on that one. She knows every song and sings along with enthusiasm. She tries to change the radio station from 60s Gold every time she gets in the car. She has even started cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs. She is not what you would call a fair-weather fan. She is committed.
We left for Saint George the Sunday after Christmas. We all look forward to a few days of sun after dealing with snow, fog and wind. When we travel, we encourage the girls to get all their “stuff” in one carry-on size suitcase or even better in a duffel bag. Elle is generally a master at packing and travels light. Well, she shows up for this excursion with her carry-on suitcase, a duffel bag stuffed to the max, and her blanket and pillow. Room was tight because there were five of us in Bran’s Ford Escape, and we had all the left-over Christmas food to take with us. We were wanting an explanation concerning Elle’s abundance of luggage and it was soon clear when she handed Grandpa her Taylor Swift record, which she got for Christmas, with the
Curlew Senior Citizens’ Menu
Every meal served with Juice/ Milk/Coffee & Salad Bar
Jan. 14 - Chicken Fried Steak, Green Beans, Rolls, Fruit, Dessert Jan. 16 - Taco Salad, Fruit, Dessert
BIRTHDAYS
Thayne Barker, Jan. 10
Bobby Green, Jan. 10
Brent Grote, Jan 10
Sawyer Hill, Jan. 10
Mark Alder, Jan. 11
Shondell Palmer, Jan.11
Heather Origer, Jan.11
Lynn Livingston, Jan. 11
Daryl Peterson, Jan. 12
Keith Blaisdell, Jan. 12
Billy Christiansen, Jan. 12
Vicki Ekstrom, Jan. 12
Farrell Jenkins, Jan. 12
Wyatt Perry, Jan. 12
Zachary Smith, Jan. 12
Marie Waldron, Jan. 12
Annette Williams, Jan.12
Marvin Ekstrom, Jan. 13
Billie Gamble, Jan. 13
Jaxcia Hess, Jan. 13
Lonnie Martin, Jan. 13
Danny Peabody, Jan. 13
Parker Steed, Jan. 13
instructions to put it somewhere safe.
Now an album does you no good without a record player and upon questioning it was discovered that indeed the purple Taylor Swift record player was strapped inside the suitcase. It was a perfect fit. Well, Grandpa, being the softie he is, worked his packing magic and everything was sardined into the car, including us. It was cozy.
We made the trip and unpacked the car. Gratefully, Taylor’s album arrived in one piece. The girls went to their room and unpacked. I joined them to make sure the record player got hooked up in a stable place. “Elle, put it right here and the cord will reach that outlet and won’t be in the way.” She jerked her head in my direction. “Grandma, I forgot the cord!”
It was true. She had been so intent on the record player and the album; she had missed the cord. Details! They are important. Your phone only works so long without a charger; a record player doesn’t work at all without a power cord. She called her dad who was coming the next day and asked him to bring the cord. She had to endure 24 hours with no Taylor but come the next day Life was Good again! New Year’s Resolution…take care of the details!
Malad Senior Citizens’ Menu
Every meal served with Juice/ Milk/Coffee Jan. 10 - Taco Soup, Orange Fluff Salad, Dessert Jan. 15 - Beef Stroganoff on Noodles, Beets, Peaches, Dessert
SCHOOL MENU
Malad Elementary Breakfast
Monday, January 13 - Cereal Assortment, Breakfast Burrito Tuesday, January 14 - Cereal Assortment, Sweet Bread Wednesday, January 15 - Cereal Assortment, Max Pancake Thursday, January 16 - Cereal Assortment, Oatmeal
Malad Middle Breakfast
Monday, January 13 - Cereal Assortment, Breakfast Burrito Tuesday, January 14 - Cereal Assortment, Waffle Wednesday, January 15 - Cereal Assortment, Oatmeal w/Fixins Thursday, January 16 - Cereal Assortment, Mini Cinnamon Bagel
Malad High Breakfast
Monday, January 13 - Cereal Assortment, Breakfast Burrito Tuesday, January 14 - Cereal Assortment, Waffle
Wednesday, January 15 - Cereal Assortment, Oatmeal w/Fixins Thursday, January 16 - Cereal Assortment, Mini Cinnamon Bagel Choices of Milk, Fresh Fruit & Veggies Served Daily in all Schools
Malad Elementary Lunch
Monday, January 13 – Mini Calzones, Baked Fries, Food Choice – Carrot Sticks or Mandarin Oranges
Tuesday, January 14 – Hamburger Gra-
vy w/Mashed Potatoes, Roll, Food Choice – Green Beans or Grapes
Wednesday, January 15 – Spaghetti & Meatballs, Garlic Bread, Food Choice – Corn or Peaches
Thursday, January 16 – Chicken Sandwich, Chips, Food Choice – Celery Sticks or Pears
Malad Middle Lunch
Monday, January 13 – Quesadilla, Spanish Rice, Salad Bar, Food Choice – Corn or Mandarin Oranges
Tuesday, January 14 – Mandarin Chicken Bowl, Spring Rolls, Salad Bar, Food Choice – Broccoli or Apple
Wednesday, January 15 – Sloppy Joe, Chips, Salad Bar, Food Choice –Carrot Sticks or Peaches
Thursday, January 16 – Chicken Noodle Soup, Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Salad Bar, Food Choice – Green Beans or Pears
Malad High Lunch
Monday, January 13 – Quesadilla, Spanish Rice, Salad Bar, Food Choice – Corn or Mandarin Oranges
Tuesday, January 14 – Mandarin Chicken Bowl, Spring Rolls, Salad Bar, Food Choice – Broccoli or Apple
Wednesday, January 15 – Sloppy Joe, Chips, Salad Bar, Food Choice –Carrot Sticks or Peaches
Thursday, January 16 – Chicken Noodle Soup, Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Salad Bar, Food Choice – Green Beans or Pears
BOWLING RESULTS
Dennis Thomas League – 1/2/25 Thomas Market 11 1 Chat & Chew 8 4 KC Oil 7 5 Hubcap Lounge 6 6 Malad Gun Club 5 7 Nikity Nacs 5 7 Dude Ranch 4 8 Blaisdell Ranch 2 10
High Game – Chris Illum 224, Diane Williams 214 High Series – Darren Tripp 608, Lacie Hess 537
Other 200 Games – Darren Tripp 219, Marty Hill 215
ON THIS DAY
Carol Warner, Jan.13
Brent Winward, Jan. 13
Kristine D. Smith, Jan. 13
Suzanne Layton, Jan. 14
Krystine Neal, Jan. 14
JaLyn Weeks, Jan. 14
Sharlene Miles, Jan. 14
Caleb Bennett, Jan. 15
David Eliason, Jan 15
Jerry Goddard, Jan 15
Cindy Howard, Jan. 15
Eldon Roe, Jan. 15
Blake Tovey, Jan. 15
Patricia Davis, Jan. 16
Joyce Fisher, Jan. 16
Jamie Hess, Jan.16
Melanie Hodgkins, Jan.16
Paula Morby, Jan. 16
Wacey Udy, Jan. 16
*Scott Alder, January 6 (we’ll make sure it’s on for next year!)
The Idaho Enterprise P.O Box 205 Malad City, Idaho 83252-0205 (U.S.P.S. -- 255-800)
The Idaho Enterprise is published weekly at 100 East 90 South, Malad City, Idaho. Postmaster, please mail address corrections to:
The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 205, Malad City, Idaho 83252-0205.
Entered as “periodicals” at the Malad City, Idaho Post Office.
Subscription rates are strictly in advance -- $55.00 per year delivered in Oneida County, and $67.00 per year delivered outside of Oneida 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
C M
Shelly Williams Advertising shelly.w@thecityjournals.com
Phone: 208-766-4773 www.idahoenterprise.com
1493 Christopher Columbus mistakes manatees for mermaids, describing them as “not half as beautiful as they are painted”
1768 Philip Astley sages the world’s first modern circus in London
1793 First hot-air balloon flight in the U.S. lifts off in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, piloted by Frenchman Jean-Pierre Blanchard, it lands 15 miles away in Deptford, New Jersey
1884 New England Telephone and Telegraph installs the first battery-operated telephone switchboard in Lexington, Massachusetts
1936 U.S. Army adopts M1 semi-automatic rifle, designed by John Garand as new standard issue weapon
1956 Abigail Van Buren’s (Pauline Phillips) “Dear Abby” advice column first appears in newspapers
1956 Musical “Peter Pan”, starring Mary Martin broadcast live, for 2nd time, on NBC as part of “Producers’ Showcase” series
1959 TV western “Rawhide” with Clint Eastwood premieres on CBS
1973 Luna 21 launched, to Moon
1976 C.W. McCall CB song “convoy” hits #1 on the country music charts
1984 Rock band Van Halen release their most successful album “1984”
2007 Apple CEO Steve Jobs announces the iPhone
CLASSIFIEDS
MAIELI’S THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE – Neck or Whiplash Issues or for just a great massage. Call Maieli Murray (626) 337 - 0772 (1-52)
ANNOUNCEMENTS, MALAD AA/NA MEETINGS, Tuesday and Thursday at 8:00 p.m., Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Call: Rick M. 208-7663584; Gary B. 435-230-3734; Jack H. 208-830-7371; or Kirk S. 208241-2297; or AA Hotline 208-2351444. (1-52)
ANNOUNCEMENTS, MALAD ALANON - We are only a phone call away. For information on meetings, call 208-220-5295 or 208251-9808. (1-52)
FOR RENT - 3200 Sq. Ft. House in Malad. 4 Bedrooms, 3 1/2 Bath. $2100 mo. Call Pat for more info 562-665-2444 (51, 1-3)
LOOKING BACK
10 YEARS AGO (2015)
Piano students of Jean Thomas and Helen Ward presented their Christmas numbers at their annual Christmas recital. Participants included the following students: Kristle Jensen, Addi Waldron, MaCall Malstrom, Clara Huckaby, Whitney Palmer, Hallee Haycock, Kylee Hunt, Garren Huckaby, Carson Palmer, Hallye Green and Jeni Alder.
Sister Heather Origer returned home on December 10, 2014, after serving an 18-month mission in the Ohio Cincinnati LDS Mission.
On Saturday, December 27 at 7 p.m. at the Malad Presbyterian Church, a concert was performed for the benefit of the restoration project of the Jesse James cabin, which will be located in the Pleasantview area on Palmers’ ranch. It was standing room only, as the performers entertained for over two hours to a packed room. The concert was called Cowboy Christmas (After Christmas) Concert and featured the incredible talents of Ernest Palmer, Brian and Anita Jeppsen, Lalie Howard, Jeff Richins and his wife Laurie, Darla Thurber, Harry Sherman and Monica Green.
The Malad High School Basketball Team visited residents at the Oneida County Long Term Care facility, taking time to give back to the community. Those visiting were Carson Hoskins, Dylan Thorpe, D.J. Evans, Josh Morley, Braxton Clark, Garrett Larsen, Daegon Haycock, Gage Cherry, Carson Cobabe, Michail Petit, Hayden Green and Ammon Bingham.
15 YEARS AGO (2010)
Susan Wittman was the lucky winner of a $500 shopping spree in the Chamber of Commerce’s “Shop Malad Holiday Giveaway Drawing” held on January 1. Susan received a nice assortment of Chamber Bucks to work with - $400 worth of $20s and $100 worth of $5s to be exact.
Malad Middle School’s first Lego League team took home the championship trophy for the second year in a row from the Northern Utah/Southern Idaho First Lego League Robotics Competition qualifying tournament.
Pictured in The Idaho Enterprise are this year’s team members which includes: Coach Tracy Ward, Carson
McClain, Josh Leneghen, Hayden Peterson, Jacob Tubbs, Jason Crouch, Lindsay Tubbs, Carson Cobabe, Riley Schow, Kalob Ihler and Dallin Ward.
McKay Young, Malad High School’s head football coach, was named the Fifth District 2A Coach of the Year.
Young is in his second year as the head of the Malad High School program. This year Young led his team into the 2A Idaho state play-offs. During his two-years as the head football coach, Young has a record of 14-5 and has led the Dragons into back-to-back play-off appearances.
This award is voted on by the five coaches in the 2A Fifth District.
Malad’s 8th grade claimed their fourth straight championship at the Malad Jam, winning the title each year they competed. The team includes Brett Hansen, Tanner Lewis, Zack Jeppsen, Brody Hubbard, Griffin Green, Nishon Neal, Jason Jensen and Joshua Jensen. 20 YEARS AGO (2005)
Three milestone birthdays were celebrated this week. John G. “Jack” Madson and Afton Ward both celebrated their 90th birthdays and Bertha Hess celebrated her 80th.
Staff Sergeant Dallas Jones, a member of the Idaho Air National Guard, has been activated and is being sent to Southwest Asia for an extended period of time. Sergeant Jones, a 1992 graduate of Malad High School, is the son of Wayne and Marilyn Jones.
The National High School Rodeo Association (NHSRA), the oldest and largest youth rodeo organization in North America, has named Megan Couch, a co-captain of the prestigious Wrangler High School All-Star Rodeo Team.
The Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) have selected their officers for the school year. They include: Chesley Lewis, Melanie Jacobson, Ali Velasco, Brianna Winder, Jed Beeton, Lacy Davis, Janeice Sromberg, Brady Robbins, Sheryl Tubbs, Anneleise Dredge and Kim Origer.
Malad Postmaster Barbara Thompson said that the impact here was minimal from an anthrax scare that occurred December 27 at the Pocatello Gateway Station. “We didn’t get all the mail we should have had Tuesday,” Thompson said, “But we didn’t have any problems as a result.”
SHERIFF'S DISPATCH
Following are recent calls received by dispatchers at the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office. During the month of December, the Sheriff’s Office investigated 124 new cases. This report includes only new investigations and does not include regular investigations, civil services, and the other responsibilities of the Sheriff’s Office.
Sunday, December 1, 2024
• 08:52 Hit and Run Reported. Vehicle struck in front of KC Oil
• 14:07 Wanted Person
• 17:31 Agency Assist
• 18:17 Citizen Dispute. Car reportedly blocked during child exchange
Monday, Dec 2, 2024
• 09:05 Suspicious Person Reported
• 10:04 Violation of Court Order
• 15:50 Welfare Check. Situation determined to be fine
Tuesday, Dec 3, 2024
• 19:20 Hit and Run Reported. Fence damaged
Wednesday, Dec 4 16, 2024
• 09:07 DUI Reported. Daniels Reservoir
• 14:57 Traffic Accident. Non injury
• 15:39 Civil Call
Thursday, Dec 5, 2024
• 08:32 Traffic Accident Reported
• 17:52 Disturbance Reported Friday, Dec 6, 2024
• 11:05 Medical Emergency Reported. Possible broken leg
• 14:24 Vandalism Reported. Rest area on I-84
• 15:45 Fire Reported
• 20:31 Welfare Check
Saturday, Dec 7, 2024
• 00:59 Disturbance Reported. Fight reported at Hubcap Lounge
• 10:58 Missing Person Reported.
• 17:47 Fire Reported
Sunday, Dec 8, 2024
• 11:58 Animal Call. Horses on Road
• 15:10 911 Call. Unknown Situation
• 22:36 Suspicious Circumstances Reported
Monday, Dec 9, 2024
• 08:40 Bus Arm Violation Reported
According to sources, operations in Pocatello Gateway Postal facility were delayed for about 16 hours, after a letter containing a suspicious white powder substance was discovered.
30 YEARS AGO (1995)
A new Oneida County Commission took over the reins of local government on January 9 with Jerry Bush as chairman. Commissioners Ralph Hanson and Gene Caldwell officially assumed their duties after being elected in November, as did new clerk/recorder Shirlee Blaisdell. Beginning their second terms in office were county treasurer Dianne Pett and county assessor Kathryn Hill. Meanwhile, E. Spence Horsley was sworn in as a new member of the Malad City Council, appointed by Mayor Terrill Schwartz to fill the vacancy created with Gene Caldwell being elected commissioner.
40 YEARS AGO (1985)
Lindsey Jo Jacobson is the first Baby of 1985. Lindsey arrived January 3 at 3:11 a.m. She weighed 6 pounds 6 ounces and measured 18 1/2 inches long. She is the daughter of Terry and Gary Jacobson and will join brothers Matthew age 7 and Brian age 12 at home.
Jim Russell is excited “to be working with the people of Malad.” Russell, a retired Navy person of 27 years, comes to Malad from Miami, Oklahoma. Russell leaves a position at Eastern State Hospital located in Vinita, Oklahoma, to join the Oneida County Hospital Staff as their administrator.
George Freidenberger, son of Joyce Freidenberger and George H. Freidenberger received notice in December that he has been accepted for admission to the U. S. Military Academy at West Point, New York.
“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” is the theme for the 1985 Malad City Junior Miss Scholarship Program to be held on May 4. Dotty Evanson and Ellen Williams are the chairwomen for this event.
50 YEARS AGO (1975)
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Scott are the parents of Oneida County’s First Baby of 1975.
Christopher Daniel Scott arrived at the Oneida Hospital January 3 at 7:34 a.m. to win this year’s honor. He weighed 8 pounds 1 ounce.
Christopher Daniel’s arrival broke
a tie to give the boys an edge in the “contest” as it now stands at 10 boys and nine girls who have claimed first baby honors and claimed a host of gifts and cash.
Oneida School Board approved the recommendation of Malad Elementary Principal Phil Gillies to hire Ann Thomas Ward as substitute teacher for the elementary resource-learning center to fill the vacancy left when the substitute teacher, Mrs. Carolyn Hansen, completed her commitment to teach.
Linda Miller left from the Salt Lake City Airport with a group of 29 Brigham Young University students for Madrid, Spain where she will spend the next six months studying the Spanish language. When the course is completed, the group will spend about three to six weeks touring various countries in Europe. Linda is a junior at BYU. Mr. and Mrs. Herman Miller and family took Linda to the airport.
60 YEARS AGO (1965)
Arriving early the morning of January 4, Miss Martha Marie Mabey became the winner of the ninth annual “First Baby of the Year” contest sponsored by Malad business firms.
The blue-eyed miss with light brown hair, weighing 6 pounds 5 ounces and measuring 19 inches is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Orson H. Mabey, Jr. She has one brother, 21-month-old Orson H. Mabey, III, and her grandparents are Dr. O. H. Mabey, Malad, and Mr. and Mrs. Robert P. Rice of Remsenberg, Long Island, N.Y.
BOISE – In brief, Governor Robert E. Smylie in his biannual message to the 1965 Legislature recommended: Enactment of a sales tax; a return to the direct primary election law, plus a presidential preference primary; creation of statewide system of junior colleges; implementation of the Water Resources Agency amendment and repeal of the pari-mutual betting law.
Cheryle Hess and Rozie Jones from the Malad Third Ward and Darla Nalder and Lynn Smith of Holbrook Ward were the debutantes for the “Winter Wonderland” themed Gold and Green Ball at the Stake building.
Myron Sorensen is the newly elected president of the Idaho State Wheat Growers Association.
• 09:34 Hit and Run Reported
• 16:18 Civil Call
• 17:24 Harassment Reported Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024
• 00:01 Suspicious Person Reported
• 11:42 Litter Violation Reported. Items in litter investigated for name of possible violator.
• 12:51 Welfare Check
• 15:02 Juvenile Problem. MHS Vaping incident Wednesday, Dec 11, 2024
• A Crime Free Day! (Maybe) Thursday, Dec 12, 2024
• 15:52 Violation of Court Order
• 16:59 Animal Call. Goat on roadway
• 19:33 Fight Reported Friday, Dec 13, 2024
• 07:13 Traffic Accident Reported. Automated Iphone crash report
• 09:13 Traffic Accident Reported. Rollover
• 11:10 Welfare Check
• 18:30 Civil Call Saturday, Dec 14, 2024
• 13:02 Slide off Reported Sunday, Dec 15, 2024
• 08:12 Suspicious Person Reported
• 12:05 Traffic Accident Reported. Fence hit near Dairy Creek Road
• 16:02 Traffic Accident Reported. In front of Family Dollar and Chevron
• 17:30 Welfare Check
• 21:03 Disturbance Reported Monday, Dec 16, 2024
• 00:00 Motorist Assist
• 09:35 Property Damage Reported
• 10:22 Sex Offense Reported
• 16:45 Slide off Reported
• 17:33 Motorist Assist. Tow out of slide-off
• 17:46 Lost Property Reported. Shotgun reported missing
• 19:47 Traffic Accident Reported. Damage to fence
• 22:09 Traffic Complaint. Snowmobile and side by side racing Tuesday, Dec 17, 2024
• 09:20 Controlled Substance Problem. Box Elder County
• 09:24 Lost Property Reported
• 15:07 Medical Emergency
• 21:22 Animal Call. Horses in roadway, Boot Lane Wednesday, Dec 18, 2024
• 15:43 Suspicious Person Reported
• 15:52 Civil Call
• 19:29 Disturbance Reported
• 20:12 Suspicious Person Reported
• 21:18 Juvenile Problem Reported Thursday, Dec 19, 2024
• 10:01 Property Damage Reported
• 13:40 Civil Call
• 13:41 Civil Call
• 18:50 Citizen Assist
• 20:02 Medical Emergency Friday, Dec 20, 2024
• 11:43 Civil Call
• 19:40 Theft Reported. Package delivery Saturday, Dec 21, 2024
• 10:41 Traffic Complaint
• 12:08 Ambulance Call
• 13:37 Trespassing Reported
• 17:09 Found Property. Boat north of Crowthers
• 19:13 Fire Reported
• 19:32 Mental Health Call Sunday, Dec 22, 2024
• 10:41 Animal Call. Dogs getting into cow enclosure
• 18:54 Traffic Hazard. Blue tarp in roadway Monday, Dec 23, 2024
• 00:12 Medical Emergency
• 04:55 Medical Emergency
• 15:51 Wanted Person Tuesday, Dec 24, 2024
• 04:38 Animal Call. Cows on roadway
• 08:13 Animal Call. Cows on roadway
• 10:20 Controlled Substance Problem Reported
• 16:30 Suspicious Person Reported. Possible road hunting
• 17:44 Animal Call. Cows on roadway
• 20:26 Suspicious Circumstance. Shotgun fired at Exit 3 Wednesday, Dec 25, 2024
• Merry Christmas! Thursday, Dec 26, 2024
• 02:31 Curfew Violation
• 10:33 Property Damage Friday, Dec 27, 2024
• 02:45 Agency Assist
• 05:11 Slide off Reported
• 08:57 Traffic Accident Reported. Crosswalk sign knocked over
• 12:40 Slide off reported
• 15:29 Traffic Accident
• 18:11 Civil Call
• 22:13 Runaway Reported Saturday, Dec 28, 2024
• 05:50 Slide off Reported
• 07:33 Slide off
• 08:59 Slide off
• 09:18 Animal Call. Loose dogs
• 10:00 Slide off
• 12:05 Traffic Accident Reported. No injuries
• 19:32 Slide off Sunday, Dec 29, 2024
• 09:42 Motorist Assist. Tire change on freeway
• 13:24 911 Call. Hangup Monday, Dec 30, 2024
• 09:43 Medical Emergency
• 21:46 911 Call. Unknown situation Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024
• 10:56 Civil Call
• 20:33 Traffic Accident. Elk hit by 18 wheeler Wednesday, Jan 1, 2025
• 16:08 Motorist Assist
• 18:07 Traffic Hazard. Deer in roadway
• 18:24 Violation of Court Order Thursday, Jan 2, 2025
• 10:16 Civil Call Friday, Jan 3, 2025
• 12:20 Welfare Check
• 16:21 Ambulance Call
• 22:23 Traffic Accident
• 22:35 Welfare Check
• 23:49 Animal Call. Cows in roadway Saturday, Jan 4, 2025
• 17:17 Suspicious Person Reported
• 20:39 Animal Call. Cow on roadway
ORDINANCE NO. 494 AN ORDINANCE OF MALAD CITY, IDAHO, A POLITICAL AND MUNICIPAL SUBDIVISION OF THE STATE OF IDAHO, REVISING, AMENDING, RESTATING, CODIFYING AND COMPILING CERTAIN EXISTING ORDINANCES OF MALAD CITY DEALING WITH SUBJECTS EMBRACED IN SUCH CODE OF ORDINANCES.
WHEREAS, the present general and permanent ordinances of the political subdivision are inadequately arranged and classified and are insufficient in form and substance for the complete preservation of the public peace, health, safety and general welfare of the municipality and for the proper conduct of its affairs; and
WHEREAS, the Acts of the Legislature of the State of Idaho, pursuant to Title 50, Chapter 9 Section 903, empower and authorize the political subdivision to revise, codify, and compile from time to time and to publish in book or pamphlet form all ordinances of such city of a general and permanent nature and to make such changes, alterations, modifications, additions and substitutions therein as it may deem best to the end that a complete simplified code of such ordinances then in force shall be presented;
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Malad City Council have authorized a general compilation and codification of the ordinances of Malad City of a general and permanent nature and publication of such ordinance in book form; and WHEREAS, it is necessary to provide for the usual daily operation of the municipality and for the immediate preservation of the public health, safety and general welfare of the municipality that this ordinance take effect pursuant to applicable law.
NOW, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF MALAD, STATE OF IDAHO, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The general ordinances of Malad City as revised, amended, restated, codified, and compiled in book form are hereby adopted as and shall constitute the “Code of Ordinances of Malad City.
Section 2. Such Code of Ordinances as adopted in Section 1 shall consist of the following Titles:
151.
152.
Section 3. All prior ordinances pertaining to the subjects treated in such Code of Ordinances shall be deemed repealed from and after the effective date of this ordinance except as they are included and reordained in whole or in part in such Code; provided, such repeal shall not affect any offense committed or penalty incurred or any right established prior to the effective date of this ordinance, nor shall such repeal affect the provisions of ordinances levying taxes, appropriating money, annexing or detaching territory or granting special rights to certain persons, authorizing public improvements, authorizing the issuance of bonds or borrowing money, authorizing the purchase or sale of real or personal property, granting or accepting easements, plat or dedication of land to public use, vacating or setting the boundaries of streets or other public places; nor shall such repeal affect any other ordinance of a temporary or special nature or pertaining to subjects not contained in or covered by the Code.
Section 4. Such Code shall be deemed published as of the day of its adoption and approval by the City Council and the Clerk of Malad City is hereby ordered to file a copy of such Code of Ordinances in the Office of the Clerk.
Section 5. Such Code shall be in full force and effect as provided in Section 6 and upon compliance with all applicable publication requirements as set forth by law, and such Code shall be presumptive evidence in all courts and places of the ordinance and all provisions, sections, penalties and regulations therein contained and of the date of passage, and that the same is properly signed, attested, recorded, and approved and that any public notices have been given.
Section 6. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect, and the Malad City Code shall take effect after passage and approval by the City Council and Mayor of Malad City, Idaho and publication as provided by law.
PASSED, ADOPTED, AND APPROVED by the City Council of Malad City, Oneida County, State of Idaho, on this 11th day of December, 2024.
JOAN HAWKINS, Mayor
ATTEST: SUSAN J. WITTMAN, City Clerk
#5683-01-09-25-T1
LEGAL NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that IDAWY Solid Waste District (District) has submitted to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) a Siting Application for the IDAWY Oneida Landfill Facility (Landfill) located at 1750 N Old Hwy 191, Malad City, ID 83252. The purpose of this application is to provide siting suitability information for the construction of a Municipal Solid Waste Transfer Station at the Facility. This public notice is made pursuant to IDAPA 58.01.06.032.03.b, and as determined in Section 31-819 of Idaho Code. This application may be reviewed at the District office located at 241 S Main, Suite #3 Lower Left, Soda Springs, ID 83276, (208) 4171625 or an electronic copy can be downloaded at: http://swti.org/ oneida2. Office hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, except holidays. The public is invited to comment on this Transfer Station siting application. The 30-day comment period commences with the first publication of this announcement starting the week of January 6, 2025. Written comments will be accepted during the public comment period and should be directed to: The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, Pocatello Regional Office, Attn: Dustyn Walker, 444 Hospital Way #300 Pocatello, ID 83201.
#5684_T5_01-9-16-23-30_026-25
State of the City
BY: MAYOR JOAN HAWKINS
Our focus at Malad City has been on the Wastewater Treatment Plant for so long, it seems strange that we can say that, finally, it is complete – well almost complete! We have some aerators that need to be replaced, but it has been running through 2024, and all is working well. The next step with the Wastewater Project will be to decommission the old ponds, dry them out and decide what to do with that land. It will take a few years to complete this phase.
Our focus has now turned to Bannock Street. That is the other big project that the city has been working on for a number of years – since 2017. We are excited that in 2025 that project will be completed. It will mean a mess for the city residents during the year, but the result, we believe, will be worth it.
In looking back at the past year, the city has several areas of concentration, as follows:
• Cemetery - The city crew has worked hard in the past year raising graves that have sunken over the years. There are still graves that need to be raised, and that work will continue in 2025. The sunken graves are being filled with a good fill dirt, and then new sod is placed on the top after the graves have had a chance to settle. Voles are still a huge problem at the cemetery. Removing some of the old fill from those graves that have settled will solve some of the problem. The crew will continue to bait the rodents to try to keep them under control.
For years, there has been a problem with certain noxious weeds at the cemetery. Again, efforts have been, and are continuing, to resolve that problem. Some of these issues take time, and we appreciate the patience of the public in resolving these problems.
• Park and Walking Path - The second area is the park and walking path. The city obtained a $1 million grant, requiring no match, from the U.S. Forest Service. That means the city has been gifted one million dollars, free and clear; and yes, we understand that grants come from taxpayers. If our city doesn’t get the money, some other city does. Some of the plans for the use of those funds had to be modified by the city because of restrictions, but during the four more years that we have to spend the funds, we will plant another 400 plus trees with a second, gravel, walking path on the north of the current walking path.
Many will question why a second walking path and why is it gravel? We want the area to be used and enjoyed by the public. Restrictions in the grant requires that it be gravel, but after five years, the city can asphalt the path. In the center of the walking path will be located the city’s new stormwater drainage (which is being built as part of the Bannock Street project). That area will be converted within the next few years to soccer fields, along with the north half of the field where the existing walking path is located. The city’s youth soccer program is robust. They are currently playing on any spot of grass available.
Included in the grant budget will be a sprinkler system and a drip system for the trees for the new area (called the north park) and the north half of the existing walking path area, and the ability to hire an arborist. The city has a well located at the park, which will be used only for the park watering so that water is not being taken from Deep Creek or from the city’s culinary wells.
Many of the trees in the current walking path area need professional help. We lost several trees
last year because of insect infestation, and other trees were dying. We have a large investment in the trees at the park. The city has a contract with arborist Trevor Robbins, through the Forest Service grant. Trevor lives in Malad. He has already started working on the current trees, and he will oversee the planting and care of the new trees.
• Water Infrastructure. Water and Wastewater studies were completed by the city’s engineer, J-U-B, during the past year. We know that our water and wastewater pipelines are old. The city council has chosen to concentrate on long-term goals, as follows: to detect leaks in the lines and repair those leaks; upgrade Wells #2 and #3 to resolve source capacity issues or to replace the wells with a reliable redundant source; repair or replace wells #2 and #3 to fix issues identified in a 2022 Sanitary Survey; loop watermains to address low pressure zones in the city; construct booster pump station to use existing spring water rights for the secondary irrigation system which in return would offset demands on the drinking water wells during the summer. In addition, other long-terms goals would include new, upgraded, water meters.
The Public Works Department is working with a company to repair or replace water hydrants throughout the city. They have also been uncovering manholes that have been paved over.
In addition, the city has joined with Deep Creek Irrigation Company in submitting a grant request to upgrade the Deep Creek pipeline infrastructure from the dam, including the existing city infrastructure for secondary water.
As always, we encourage citizens to feel free to express your concerns or questions to the proper city authority. For issues concerning the cemetery, parks, streets, water, or sewer, please contact Tyler Webster, our Superintendent of Public Works. He has an excellent crew of men in Gaylen Garrett, Pat Werk, Clint Price, and Quincy Asay. During the summer, local high school students are hired to help during that busy time, giving them work experience.
For questions regarding your water bills or other such concerns, please contact the Malad City Clerk, Susan Wittman. Susan, along with office assistant Machelle Neal, takes care of the city records. She also is the person to see regarding utility payments, licenses, park reservations, city council and planning and zoning information, cemetery, and a lot of other general information. She and Machelle are valuable city employees. John Christophersen is the Malad City Ordinance Officer. His responsibilities are to enforce the Malad City ordinances; and he is authorized to give citations if those ordinances are being violated.
Your mayor and city council are Mayor Joan Hawkins, Council President Lance Tripp, and council members Larry Thomas, Tyrell Neal, and Jaime Olson. Their contact information, along with those of other city personnel, can be obtained from the Malad City website, maladidaho.org under the “Government”/“City Government” tab at the top of the page. In addition, the city’s telephone system will direct you to either the office or public works department when calling during working hours.
We consider it an honor to serve you. We welcome questions and even complaints! Please let us know how we can better serve you.
Synopsis of the December 2024 Minutes
Oneida County Board of Commissioners
December 9, 2024 - Topics discussed and decisions made: Claims for payment and meeting minutes were approved. Local Highway Technical Assistance Council (LHTAC) presented Road Scholar and Road Master Awards to Road and Bridge Employees. A solid waste cancellation request was approved. A tax cancellation request was approved. Commissioners agreed to place the annual Christmas Greeting in the Enterprise. Radios for the Road & Bridge department were approved. Cameras and internet for the Holbrook building were approved. A synopsis of the special meeting for the weed department equipment purchase was given. The annual road and street report was given. The Ben Naylor public hearing date was moved to February 4 at 1:00pm. The county vessel fund report was signed. Quotes are being gathered for bollards at the county bulk fuel tank. Discussion for purchasing a shared trailer (Sheriff and Search & Rescue) was tabled. An agreement with Ada County for pathology services was signed. Commissioner Eliason will chair the December 23 commissioner meeting. The hospital board was discussed. Airport Board members were ratified. A smart card encoder for the airport fuel tank was approved for purchase. The commissioner meeting schedule was approved for 2025. The discussion of the IT Managed Services Agreement was tabled pending clarification. Applications for county liquor licenses were approved. Commissioners discussed who would be attending the Legislative District 27 meeting on 12/19 in Cassia County. A brief summary of the
recent ICRMP training was given. Grant applications for SHSP and EMPG were signed. Following a public hearing, the proposed development code amendments (APA, RV, WUI, PUD, AFO) were approved.
December 23, 2024 - Topics discussed and decisions made: Claims for payment and meeting minutes were approved. A property tax cancellation request was approved. The Idaho Power refund payment approved. The indigent defense expenditure report for 2024 was accepted. The new Agricultural Protection Area (APA) Review Committee was ratified. Quotes for the bulk fuel tank bollards were approved and an additional quote for a covering was requested by the commissioners. The IT Managed Services Agreement was signed. A resolution for the Arbon Valley Road Grant was approved. Lights for the road & bridge shop were discussed. The summary of amendments to Oneida County Ordinance 202208-01 (Development Code) was approved for printing in the newspaper on 1/2/2025. An additional user license for Computer Arts was approved for the sheriff’s office.
Expenditures by fund: General Fund/Current expense, $ 53,034.90; Road & Bridge, $ 95,531.96; Airport, $ 3,286.28; Ambulance, $ 6,584.12; District Court, $ 2,199.70; Fair, County, $ 456.40; Justice, $ 75,372.43; Parks & Rec., $ 162.95; Revaluation, $ 2,365.26; Weeds, $ 1,004.93; E-911, $ 15,543.98; Drug Court/Specialty Court Coordinator, $ 1,858.93 -Total - $257,401.84
OBITUARY
Wendell A. Smith
June 10, 1940 ~ December 30, 2024
Wendell A. Smith, passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024 joining his wife, Pamila and two sons, Dustin and Jared, in the next phase of their eternal journey.
Wendell was born in Malad, Idaho on June 10th, 1940, a son of Alvin and Vera Gleed Smith. He was the third of six children. Wendell’s early years were spent working on the family ranch near Deep Creek, Idaho alongside his mom, dad, four sisters and younger brother. When not working alongside his mom and dad, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, riding horses, and experiencing the great outdoors. During his Junior and Senior High school years, Wendell was involved in school leadership, seminary council and excelled in sporting competitions, especially football and basketball.
After high school and a year at Ricks College, he served a fulltime mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Southern States Mission, which led to a deep conversion and lifelong service in the church. His mission experiences shaped the rest of his life and made him into the man, teacher, leader, and friend that we know and love.
Wendell joined the Utah Air National Guard from 1965-1971 and worked as a US Forest Service Engineer to put himself through school. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education from Utah State University in 1967.
After a short courtship, on March 18, 1966, he married Pamila Anderson in the Logan, Utah Temple. Following their marriage and after graduating from Utah State, he returned to live in Malad and enjoyed being close to old friends as well as family. He honored his divine role and solemn responsibility as husband, father and patriarch in the family. He, in partnership with his wife, raised two sons in love and righteousness, always presiding, providing, protecting, teaching principles and instilling values and morals in them. He enjoyed many family outings, fishing and hunting, trips to Jackson Hole, Cody, Wyoming, the family cabin in Island Park, and Disneyland.
Wendell worked for Malad High School as a teacher and coach (19671979), and later at Thiokol as an engineer. He loved teaching, was a gifted and natural teacher, and his students appreciated his ability to explain complex principles in simple language. When not at work or volunteering with his church responsibilities, most evenings he would spend several hours on his part time and hobby farm near Deep Creek. During the weekends, Wendell could be found hunting, fishing, snowmo-
biling, on the Oxford Mountain, or working on his farm with his sons. Even in the last months of his life Wendell was known to be fishing with his grandkids or in the mountains four-wheeling with his friends. Wendell followed his children to many football, basketball, and baseball games as well as musical concerts and plays. As he and Pam found themselves empty nesters, they traded the farm for a cabin in Island Park, Idaho where he loved to fish and ride his four-wheeler.
Wendell spent much of his life dedicated in service to others. He was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served in various church callings including Elders Quorum President, Stake High Council, Bishopric Counselor, Stake Presidency Counselor, and Bishop. Later in life he was asked to teach again as a Gospel Doctrine Teacher. Wendell and Pam served and cherished together, a Senior couple’s mission to Atlanta, Georgia. Following their mission, he and Pam served as Stake Family History Directors and as temple workers in the Logan and Brigham City, Utah temples. Most importantly, he was valiant in his testimony of the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and His Restored Gospel.
Wendell is survived by a son, Jedd (Missy) of Meridian, Idaho, nine grandchildren, and one sister and brother.
Wendell was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, a stillborn son Jared, a son Dustin, and his beloved wife Pam. Wendell never forgot about his wife and sons, visiting their graves regularly with flowers, a soda pop, and deep emotion. He eagerly anticipated a sweet reunion on the other side of the veil. He will be remembered for his diligence to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, his kindness, love, and example of compassion.
A viewing was held at the Malad Stake Center on Monday, January 6th from 7-9 P.M., and on Tuesday, January 7th from 10:30-11:30 A.M. Funeral services followed at noon on Tuesday, January 7th.
War
THE ISSUE: Bittersweet nightshade
Bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara) is a climbing perennial vine native to Eurasia. It was probably introduced into the U.S. for medicinal and ornamental purposes. Care should be taken when handling this plant as all parts of the plant are toxic to humans, pets, and livestock. It invades roadsides, thickets, fence rows, and other moist disturbed sites.
Bittersweet nightshade can grow up to 10 feet in length as it climbs other plants, trees, or structures. It has simple alternate leaves that are approximately 2-4 inches in length, with a broad ovate shape, and it often has lobes at the base. Leaves are dark green on the top and lighter green on the bottom. Stems and leaves produce an unpleasant odor when bruised or crushed. Flowers are bright purple with yellow anthers (have a similar appearance to tomato or potato flowers). After flowers are pollinated, small green fruit develops. As they ripen, they turn bright red. Bittersweet nightshade can reproduce by seed and by rhizomes (underground stems).
Some birds and mammals can eat the fruit without getting sick, seeds are then dispersed as they pass through their digestive system.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Options:
• Prevention— Learn to identify this weed. Do not transport unknown
plant material or seed.
• Mechanical— Hand pulling individual plants can be effective but take care to where protective clothing as this weed can cause skin irritation. Mowing can also be effective, but it may require multiple treatments. Perform mechanical treatments prior to seed production.
• Cultural—Establish a healthy stand of beneficial plants that can compete with weed seedlings.
• Chemical—Effective post-emergent herbicide active ingredients include Glyphosate, Triclopyr, or Imazapyr. Be especially careful when applying herbicides, as herbicides can damage or kill non-target vegetation. Always read and follow herbicide label directions!
Justin Hatch, University of Idaho Extension Agriculture Educator in Caribou County. 208-547-3205 JLHatch@uidaho.edu
Ghosts of the Last Chance
Part 2
In the first part of the story, Erin had just moved to a small new town with his father following the death of his mother. We left him walking into his first day on a new job, and being told some odd news.
BY H R REYNOLDS
“The ghost is acting up again,” the woman behind the counter said again. The tag on her vest said “Randy.” Erin stared at her, waiting for her to crack a smile and make it clear that she was joking. She didn’t, so maybe she wasn’t…
“Wait—Randy?” Erin started.
“Huh?” she looked at him in confusion, then followed his eyeline down to her nametag. “Oh,” she said. “My name’s not Randy. I’m Chantelle,” she said. She didn’t offer any further explanation, but handed him a similar vest, this one with a tag that said “Ryan.” He took it from her and put it on. As he started to take the nametag off, she stopped him.
“It’s easier when you have a name. We’ll make you one soon…Ryan!” She finally laughed. It broke the tension a little, though he was still weirded out.
“Ha,” he said. “So, what’s the ghost you were—” Chantelle cut him off. “Follow me,” she said.
A projected light from behind him was blocked as he moved to the other side of the window, and he was briefly covered with the image of “Ryan.” It was probably his imagination, but he felt a chill as the light passed over him.
“The light reflects on to the window and looks like it’s in the room. It how they do the Disneyland Haunted House,” she said, still chuckling.
“The Haunted Mansion,” Erin corrected.
Chantelle rolled her eyes. “Uh huh.”
As he came to grips with what the “ghost” was, he had more questions that anything. Why did this convenience store have a ghost special effect anyway? Why was it running in the middle of the summer, as opposed to say, Halloween? Who had decided it was a good idea for a town of a few thousand people?
“So…” he started, unsure which question to ask first. He settled on the one that had brought them here in the first place. “You said it was ‘acting up?’ What do you mean?”
Chantelle gave him a long look, then she walked over to a long cord nearby on the ground and held it up. It was not plugged in to anything. “This is the only power supply back here. It hasn’t been turned on for weeks,” she said. He instinctively moved back from the glass. “You mean…?” he started, unsure what he was actually planning to say of it came to it.
The cost for a standard obituary: $89 500 words with one color
P.O.
They tracked a course through the inside of the store, past stacked boxes of snacks and brake fluid and fishing supplies and who knew what else. They went past the freezer storage and out a door that led to an alley that ran alongside the building. As they rounded a final corner, Erin suddenly stopped and let out a sound he hoped Chantelle hadn’t heard.
“I don’t mean anything. Just what I said,” Chantelle grunted, kicking the projector with her size ten or eleven Hey Dudes. Her kick demonstrated that the power supply cord was not currently plugged into anything. Nevertheless, the projector was clearly shining out into the growing darkness.
“It’s probably got a, uh, solar power backup or something,” Erin said.
Malad Idaho 83252 100 E. 90 S., Malad, Idaho 208-766-4773
Once she started snorting with laughter, he guessed she must have.
In front of him was a strange, translucent figure. There was no other way to explain it than to say it looked like a ghost, slowly moving in the darkness and lighting up the area around it. From this angle, he realized he must be looking at what had been an empty window in the front of the building.
“That’s Ryan,” Chantelle said.
Realizing that the “ghost” had been performing a loop of the same action over and over, he cautiously approached it. Chantelle’s smug and distinct lack of terror also signaled to him that whatever was going on was not a mortal threat.
“It’s called a Pepper’s Ghost,” she said, as he approached the glass window. The figure moved back and forth on its surface, and he reached out and tapped it. No reaction, of course.
Chantelle managed to roll her eyes without even opening them. “Sure,” she said. “It doesn’t matter that much. That’s not even the real problem.”
“Ok,” Erin said. The low thrumming of trucks on the freeway was constant, but a distinct carrier of that sound seemed to peel off the main bulk and move in their direction. As headlights lit up the front lot, Chantelle sighed. “I’ll be back in a minute,” she said, heading for the entrance.
“But wait!” Erin shouted. “What’s the actual problem then? You said—”
Chantelle turned as she opened the door back inside. “That ‘ghost’ we’ve been calling Ryan isn’t the one on the projector. Until the other day, we’ve never seen him before.” She turned and went inside, leaving Ryan alone with his thoughts and the ‘ghost.’
Part 3 will be coming when space next permits!
Wendell A. Smith
Photo courtesy of Steven Dewey, Utah State University, Bugwood.org
ONEIDA COUNTY WEEKLY EVENTS
January 9 - 15, 2025
Mary Coakley’s Piano Recital it’s movie time!
On Friday evening, December 20, 2024, twenty-five piano students instructed by Mary Coakley presented performances of their own selected Christmas pieces. The recital was split into two sessions. One was held from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. and the other was from 6:30 until 7:30 p.m. This recital marks the 6th Christmas recital presented by Mary Coakley and her piano students. Coakley wanted to express her gratitude to the LDS church for making
the 5th Ward Building available for the recital. “The quality of sound in that room was amazing! It certainly enhanced the great performances of my students.” She expressed her appreciation for all the effort and time devoted by her students and their parents that went into making this recital such a resounding success. “I consider it a privilege to be able to teach such gifted and committed children. They are all superstars in my eyes.”
3
Essential New Year’s
Movies
to Watch Heading into 2025
BY VANNA HADDOCK & ROSEMARY HALL
With the adage “out with the old, in with the new” as heard so frequently around the last week of the year, sometimes it’s good to ignore this piece of advice and revisit old classics. This is a list of our personal top 3 favorite picks for an amusing watch to not panic as we head into 2025. Remember to grab a couple snacks and a towel, and get ready to return to some classic quality cinema. In no particular order, of course.
Sunset Boulevard (1950)
Take a blast to the past with the iconic Billy Wilder film Sunset Boulevard, which features the talented cast of William Holden & Gloria Swanson. It is a comedic film noir that focuses on its protagonist, Joe Gillis, a struggling screenwriter who finds himself entangled in the delusions of a former silent film star named Norma Desmond. This is an unforgettable piece of cinema that’ll entertain you and leave you with a deep appreciation for classic American films. Using blackand-white cinematography, Wilder achieves the fantastical aesthetic of the noir genre. The movie’s witty dialogue will keep you both laughing and on the edge of your seat. However, what makes it a perfect choice for a New Year film is the script’s involvement with the holiday, featuring an iconic scene of Norma Desmond’s New Year’s Eve Party.
The Great Gatsby (2013)
A perfect movie that encapsulates the glitz and glamour of the holiday, Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby
highlights decadence & celebration through screen like no other. This film has legendary performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Macguire, and Carey Mulligan. As well as picturesque set designs, elaborate costuming, and skillful cinematography. Based on the classic F. Scott Fitzgerald novel, the story focuses on the friendship between Nick Caraway, and the perplexing millionaire known as Jay Gatsby. Taking place during the Roaring Twenties in New York, it’s a movie that relishes the iconic parties of the time, giving you the perfect atmosphere for your New Year’s Eve.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (2005)
A fantastic adaptation of a classic book series, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy , features a stacked cast and all the charms of the original paper version of the story. This film begins with an unsuspecting New Year’s Eve party, which soon devolves into a wild and zany space adventure. With phenomenal acting from Martin Freeman, Zooey Deschanel, Mos Def, Bill Nighy, and even Alan Rickman, this movie will leave you with a good chuckle and even a bit of philosophical contemplation about the meaning of life, the universe, and everything as our band of wacky heroes go to discover this very idea. If you’ve never read the original book series or if you’re an avid fan, you’ll be able to enjoy the movie equally as well. This piece of cinema is an absolute must to add to your New Year’s movie watch list. It’ll leave you saying “so long, and thanks for all the fish” to 2024.
NEWS OF RECORD
ONEIDA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Theydon Carr, Malad, fail to exercise due care, $33.50, costs $56.50 MALAD CITY
Beth Melodee Schardine, Malad, temporary permittee not accompanied by a license driver over 21 years of age, $44.50, costs $56.50
IDAHO STATE POLICE
Morgan Evan Ekstrom, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Faith Noelle Hollingshead, Murray, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Lehi Samuel Reyes Leon, Lindon, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Front row(L-R); Paige Donnan, Tucker Velasco, Jersyn Shulz, Jonah Kayiki, Gabby Kayiki, Brinklee Venable, Autumn Donnan, Back row (L-R); Jace Nalder, Olivia Pabawena, Makiya Shulz, Katie Coatney, Adanna Hansen, Zach Palmer with Mary Coakley
Front row(L-R); Maliah Hansen, Aspen Booth, Brynlee Ketchell, Weston Hansen, Victoria Anderson, Hunter Clark, Gunner Clark, Back row(L-R); Annika Smith, Jordyn Thomas, Braxton Ketchell, Briggs Ketchell, Dot Teeples with Mary Coakley
Decluttering Your Ranch Life
BY ALLISON ELIASON
The turn of a calendar year is notorious for all sorts of new starts, goals and challenges. Everywhere we see people trying to take on new habits, break old ones, and put their best foot forward. Business is at its peak for life coaches, personal trainers, and professional organizers.
I’ll admit that my curiosity gets the better of me and I have to take a look at all the upgraded life hacks, new and improved menus, and life-altering cleaning schedules. And there is a time or two that I give those tips and tricks a try, and once in a while there is a winner idea I keep around.
Unfortunately, in all my time perusing those cleaning, organizing, or rearranging work sheets there has never been a category dedicated to decluttering a rancher. Either no guru has had a rancher in their life to see the need for such specific instructions on purging or they haven’t been brave enough to take it on.
Today is that day we finally have a chapter on “How to Declutter a Rancher.”
To start the process with an easy win, begin decluttering with their overwhelming hat collection. Every fertilizer rep, bank loaner, nutrition consultant, tractor dealer, feed clerk and vet has probably given your rancher a new hat or two. And despite what they tell you, they do not need every hat, they don’t even like them all. There are always hats that can be tossed.
Whether it is the old sweaty, greasy ball cap they were given last year and have clearly worn out or a new hat they were given but don’t actually like, it’s time to part ways. Tell them to keep a
few nice clean hats to wear around town, get rid of the grungy few that have given all they can, and put a few different hats into the work rotation.
After getting the ball rolling with a few hats out the door might, a rancher next needs to purge the glove pile. I can tell you all the arguments that they will give- “That one is still good, its mate was just worn out,” or “It just has a small popped seam here and has a lot of life left,” or my favorite “This is the back up pair to my back up pair.”
Now I have seen enough to see the logic of hanging on to the backup pair and I know there are winter work gloves and there are summer work gloves. But when there are backup gloves to the backup gloves and seven left handed gloves to only two right handed gloves, it’s time to throw some away.
The same logic of evicting old worn out hats and gloves can also apply to old worn out boots. It’s completely sensible to have a pair of town boots and work boots. I can even see having work boots to ride in and then a more comfortable pair of work boots for those long days on the feet. But there is no need to hang on to those boots that were replaced two or three or four times ago. If the boots need replacing, the boots need chucking. Don’t waveryou know I’m right and the chaos those boots bring sitting in the way, tripping people left and right just isn’t worth it.
Don’t leave the mudroom without decluttering the coats, sweaters, vests and scarves. Your rancher will try to use the same logic to hang on to those tattered, old favorites but you also know how to negotiate them into the toss pile.
The next place a rancher will
need to declutter is his closet. You already know it is their nature to make do with the old but that they also can’t resist a little bit of something new. But you can draw the line at keeping ALL the work shirts when there just isn’t any more room in the closet for them. Here’s how to proceed: Step one- throw out anything with a hole in it. It was really never going to get fixed. Step twoanything stained with grease, tattoo ink, tag marker or paint stick can go because they will likely complain about it. Step three- if there are still too many shirts, it’s time to make your rancher try them on. This is likely to produce some whining but the solution to their objections is an offer to just pick a “few more” yourself. One way or another, the wardrobe is eventually purged.
There is only one rule necessary for decluttering the work pants pile. Never mend a patch you have already mended. If the pants are so worn out they need fixing again, it’s time to replace them.
With so many decisions decluttering their work gear and wardrobe, the next move is to simply send your rancher out with the collection of wire bits, fencing clips, loose tags, miscellaneous tools and the like that has been collecting in the house for far too long. It’s possible that they won’t actually be put away where they truly belong, but they are no longer in the house and that’s a win for you.
Now it’s time to turn to the less obvious but still unnecessary collections a rancher might stash. In the bathrooms will be far too many bull sale catalogs and ranching magazines. If they haven’t read it already, they likely won’t now.
While you may have already thrown out all the outdated food from
your fridge and pantry, go back and do the same with all the old vaccines and medicines your rancher has in there.
It’s ok to go through the burgeoning collection of lunch boxes, coolers, water bottles and ice packs. If you never get another, you still have too many and I’m confident that over the next year, you will probably get one more of any of them, or all of them.
One final tip- remember that ranchers are sorting pros, you just might have to set the scene up a little different. They have no problem sorting culls out on the ranch so I figure if they should do just fine calling out “by” for keep or “in” for trash to cull things in the house. If you were successful in any amount of helping your rancher declutter inside the home, it may be worth it to encourage a little decluttering outside the home. Start in the garage by getting rid of broken tools, old truck parts, and useless project materials. Then move on to the more testy items like old broken down tack or destroyed sorting sticks and hot shots.
In all transparency, I have a rancher that could use a real dose of decluttering. There are just too many good hats, gloves with a little life in them, favorite shirts, cool magazines and hot shots that just need a little attention. This tutorial is largely theory and wishful thinking instead of successful experience being passed on. If you happen to use this advice and actually make some progress on the ranchy hordes taking over your home, let me know. I’d love to hear that someone has triumphed over the ever growing collections.
Lady Dragons extend win streak to 12!
BY ALLISON ELIASON
No one can dispute that the Lady Dragons have had an exciting and successful season thus far. Collecting eleven wins before pausing for the Christmas break has been no easy feat. A number of teams have pushed their talent, dedication and commitment in a way that only sheer will and grit could help them win out like they have.
Jumping into the new year and the latter half of their season, the Malad team had a huge challenge set ahead of them- a second matchup with the only team to have beaten them this year. On Saturday, January 4, the Lady Dragons hosted the Bear Lake Bears in what might have been the most meaningful game of the regular season.
While the Bears are no longer a conference opponent, the history between the two teams still leaves them a fierce rival. That rivalry and the sting of the earlier defeat left the Lady Dragons determined to play this matchup at a whole new level.
From the first tip, the game was intense and physical as players from both teams hit the ground in pursuit of the ball. Both teams quickly established a tough defense and dedicated offense. It was Malad that scored the first basket of the game as Kiley Miller sank two bonus shots from the free throw line after being fouled on a baseline layup.
The game was clearly defense dominated as both teams were slow to put more points on the scoreboard. Halfway through the first quarter, it seemed that each possession would land points for each team. Miller hit up another lay-in for two points to be followed by a Bear Lake score to tie the game at 9 points each. Brynnlee Jones made a move through the key for another Malad basket followed by the Bears working in another shot of their own.
Mady Vanbebber put Malad up by two points after Mikell Keetch dumped the pass in from the high post. On the other end of the court, Jones put a stop to Bear Lake’s next score with a quick block. The Lady Dragons led 13-12 as the first quarter ended.
The MHS team never let up in their intensity as they continued through the first half, while never giving up their lead. Bear Lake’s defense featured a quickly moving zone that collapsed hard anytime the ball would come inside the key. Malad found the weakness in their defense with fastball movement and a quick drive and kick out. Keetch on the wing found herself with two defenders coming after her, leading to a quick dish down to Miller in the corner. With the defender on the block coming out to cover her, Liv Nelson was left open under the hoop. Hitting her with
the pass, Nelson scored the shot to put the Lady Dragons up by another two.
In a reverse fashion, Nelson had the ball on the free throw line, Keetch and Vanbebber cutting to the basket. The Bear Lake defense jumped to defend the cut as Miller on the outside relocated two steps down the arc. Connecting with her open teammate, Nelson passed out for the three point shot.
Outscoring the Bears in the second quarter, the Lady Dragons went into half up 25-21.
If Bear Lake was hoping Malad would let up as they set into the third quarter, they were highly disappointed. The MHS defense was everywhere, forcing jump balls, blocking shots, and pressuring turnovers. Over the 8 minute period, Malad only allowed 8 points to be scored while extending their lead by 13 to go into the fourth quarter, 37-29.
The battle on the court continued just as hit had been played out the previous three quarters. As the clock hit the midway mark, Bear Lake had a sudden urge, putting up 6 points without any response from Malad. Their lead dropping to just three points, the Lady Dragons knew they had to play with near perfection if they were going to hold onto their lead.
Jones hit a crucial free throw to extend their lead by one more point but the Bears cut it down to two again with just over two minutes remaining. The tension and pressure were palpable through the gym and the crowd began chanting “Defense” to spur the MHS effort on.
Bear Lake went up for another basket, bumping it off the rim. Nelson and her defender both grabbed the rebound, the jump ball call going to the Lady Dragons. Izzy Haycock, passing the ball in from the baseline, connected with Keetch to bring the ball down the floor. Desperate for a steal or turnover, the Bears put up a full court pressure. Keetch aggressively began dribbling the ball towards half quart as she hit with a foul, Bear Lake’s fifth.
Now in the bonus, Keetch confidently stepped up to the foul line before Bear Lake called a time out. Returning to shoot her bonus shots, Keetch dropped both through the net to put them back up by four points.
Bringing the ball down with 55.1 seconds left in the game, Bear Lake attempted to execute a quick scoring play but instead tipped the ball out of bounds. Once again, Keetch was inbounded the ball, fouled and sent to the free throw line where once again she sank both shots to put them up 45-39.
Now with 25.8 seconds left, the Bears were desperate to score. Getting off a quick three, the ball bounced out with Izzy Haycock securing
the rebound and receiving the foul. With only 8 seconds left on the clock, the game was decided. After grabbing the rebounding, Bear Lake hoped to at least minimize the gap but came up short.
As the final buzzer rang out, the Lady Dragons celebrated their hard won victory, 45-39. Cheering on with his team, Head Coach Trevor Jones commented, “That was a big one for us. We all had that one marked on the calendar and were looking forward to it. The girls put in a lot of work, in prepping and training.
“Bear Lake is a powerhouse ranked #5 in the state across all classifications and are the defending state champs with their whole team back. They got us pretty good the first game of the year. So to beat them really showed our growth. The girls’ toughness and determination was on full display and they shined. The girls work hard and have fun doing it.
“We are hoping we can stick together, keep learning, and keep that fire and focus on the next play. It will be an exciting second half of the season.”
Giving a shout out to the fans that helped root them on to their big win Coach Jones said, “The support from the community was awesome. Having such a big crowd created such an electric atmosphere. It was also great to see so many of the youth in their junior basketball gear and cheering us on.”
Now into their final weeks of the regular season, the Lady Dragons are set to take on conference opponents as they host the Declo Hornets Wednesday, January 8 and travel to Soda Springs for their first matchup against the Cardinals Friday, January 10.
Basketball Results
MHS vs Bear Lake Saturday, January 4, 2025
Strong start to wrestling year
BY ALLISON ELIASON
The Malad wrestling team started the 2025 year off right- on the mats and in the brackets against the toughest competition they could find. January’s opening weekend, the varsity wrestlers competed in two tournaments beginning with the Richardson Memorial tournament at Box Elder High School on January 3-4.
Those wrestlers not competing in the second day of the Richardson tournament entered the Bear Lake tournament on Saturday, January 4 in Montpelier. Between the two tournaments, the Dragon wrestling team put significant time on the mats and in return saw significant success.
The Richardson Memorial Tournament featured the best wrestlers from the top schools of Utah, Wyoming and Idaho. Traditionally the tournament boasts of extremely tough competition and this year was no different. The MHS wrestlers were set for the challenge and walked away with a number of medaling athletes.
Sophomore Drake Morrison won the 150lb varsity bracket, pinning and tech-ing his way through the tournament. Morrison is the first MHS wrestler to claim the top spot of any bracket at the tournament.
Four Dragons earned their spot on the podium at the Richardson.
Drake Morrison 150lb Champion; Jack Willie 106lb Runner Up; Oakley Maddox 157lb 4th place; and Gabe Hooste 175lb 5th place.
Head Coach Devin Morrison commented about their results saying, “Our boys wrestled incredibly well and fought hard for the medals they brought home. Facing tough competition through the season is what helps prepare our team for district and state.”
At the Bear Lake tournament, nine Dragons made their way through their weight classes to the medal stand:
131 lbs Ayden Potter 2nd
143 lbs Roper Higley 2nd
190 lbs Cam Bingham 2nd
132 lbs Parker Price 3rd
Word Worries
You know how whenever you get a group of people together who all care about something with its own specific rules and history they always find a way to make an argument out of something that looks exactly like nothing to an outsider? Sports is one obvious example (no offense to Jody Reeves!). Do all NFL records set since 2021 need an asterisk, since the season used to be 16 games and now it’s 17? What about records from the dead ball era in baseball? Or before the three point line in basketball? You can find similar arguments about rules and subrules in just about any field of endeavor where people are passionate, from chess to hot dog condiments to Beach Boys lead singers.
In English, one of those arguments surrounds the use of what is often referred to as the “Oxford comma”. The comma, which by all appearances looks to be a standard example of the thing, is named for the Oxford University Press, which heavily promoted its usage in the decades on either side of the year 1900 in its industry standard writing style guides. And what, you well may ask, is an Oxford comma?
The phrase refers to a comma used in a series of words to demarcate the line between the penultimate and the final items in a list. In other words, it’s the last comma in a sentence like
this: “The primary colors are red, yellow, and blue.” For many years (and certainly when I was a student in high school), it was taught that the final comma was unnecessary as it performed the same function as the conjunction “and.” This is also thought to partly be connected to the rise in printing costs during the twentieth century. Leaving out one comma (as in “The primary colors are red, yellow and blue”) is clearly not a huge change. Over the course of many thousands of printings, however, it adds up. All those little commas are fractions of a cent in someone’s ledger. But here we are entering the second quarter of the twenty-first century, and a majority of the writing that people produce is now digital. While there is still an associated cost with producing digital documents, a pile of commas doesn’t make the same kind of difference. As a result, there is something of a push to re-enshrine the Oxford comma, and a rift exists between those dedicated to clarity and precision, and those who prefer a sleeker, more modern approach to commas. Language people are dorks, obviously.
Myself, I’m an Oxford comma adherent. In my opinion, it does make a substantive difference, and the reasoning supporters like myself give is the principle of discreteness, or separating things into positions of equal value. In the example of the primary colors,
138 lbs Cruz Carter 3rd
144 lbs Zane Komrofske 3rd
190 lbs Rydon Montgomery 3rd
98 lbs Brady Oglesbee 4th
120 lbs Wade Clark 4th
The Lady Dragon wrestlers also traveled to Bear Lake to compete in the 2025 Traedon McPherson Memorial tournament on Jan 4th. “The ladies all wrestled extremely well,” shared the coaching staff. Continuing they shared, “The team as a whole has worked hard in the practice room and it is showing in the competitions that they are wrestling in.”
The improvements from one tournament to the next has been noticeable, for both the seasoned wrestlers and those with less experience. Seeing opponents from different teams, states, and styles has only helped them find progress this season.
Their progress led them to an exciting team victory over the weekend, winning the Traedon McPherson Memorial tournament for the second year in a row. At 100 lbs Serenity
Brees took 2nd, at 107 lbs Braylee Price won 2nd with Stella Merja placing 4th. At 114 lbs the team had 3 ladies wrestling- Bentley Oglesbee winning 1st place, Karsen Thornock 3rd place, and Laney Coatney 4th place. At 120 lbs Bella McCullough took 2nd place with Paysli Chournos 3rd place. Wrestling in her very first tournament, Makiya Shulz went out and secured a 2nd place spot for the team. At 132 lbs Dezirae Haven placed 3rd. Aubrey Shulz wrestled at 138 lbs to take 2nd place. In the 235 lb bracket Bella Smith placed 1st. Those placements secured the win for the Lady Dragons with a score of 102.5 points. The Lady Dragons wrestle next in Soda Springs on Wednesday, January 8 in Soda Springs at the 5th District Duals. The schedule then has them competing in Madison for another two day tournament on January 10-11.
each one is equally important and of equal value. Primary colors are not ranked in importance, they are a set of three equal things. The Oxford comma creates a visual and logical marker of that relationship.
But, you might say (if you’re still reading this, that is…), an “and” works just as well, and it saves on clutter. You have a point, and that’s certainly the counterpoint. But let’s take another example. What about: “There are many great pets—iguanas, cockatiels, ferrets, spider monkeys, cats, and dogs.” In this case, the Oxford comma is applied to the list in the same way as the first example. But (and I promise this is a point), let’s say we do the following: “There are many great pets— iguanas, cockatiels, ferrets, spider monkeys, cats and dogs.” In a case where the Oxford comma is NEVER used by the writer, this is simply a list with the final item following an “and”. In a situation where the writer ALWAYS uses Oxford commas, the last pair stands out because it appears to change the writer’s usage rules. But that’s the trick—it’s a purposeful commentary on the closer relationship between cats and dogs than any of the other items in the list. In other words, it calls attention to the difference in value between those two items and the discrete items in the rest of the list.
While a lot of times, the difference between a list with an Oxford com-
ma and a list without one is minimal, there are cases where it can be a substantive difference. Legal and formal documents are one arena where the Oxford comma is generally preferred for that reason. One way of thinking about it is that using the Oxford comma as a default expands the playfield of meaning—it allows for greater nuance in writing situations where categorization is of utmost importance. Or to put it another way, it adds another precision tool to the toolbox.
Word of the Week: Barbatulous. It’s, ahem, a short one this week. The word has only been used once outside of references to how it has only been used once. The word means “possessed of but a small beard” and is only recorded to have been used in Shakespeare’s “Timon of Athens.” Based on the context of the play, in which an overly nice guy is gradually turned into an overly mean guy through the mechanism of poverty, it is clear that barbatulous is not a compliment. It is often used an example of how while Shakespeare did create much of our modern language, he didn’t have a 100% success rate. It’s worth noting that in most historical drawings of him, Mr. Shakespeare is notable for his large forehead and small beard. I’m certainly not thinking about any of this because I recently shaved and now my neck is freezing.
Oakley Maddox fought his way to a 4th place finish.
Jack Willie working for the pin to make his way to the 106lb finals.
The Lady Dragons took first place in the Bear Lake tournament as 9 of their 12 wrestlers medaled in the weekend competition.
Gabe Hooste working for the win.
BY BRANDON HALL