Winter takes a toll on SSHS
Last week’s Enterprise was caught up in the remarkable cold conditions that descended on the region, as were most people in the country. As the week wore on, stories of ice skating down Bourbon Street in New Orleans and snowmen in Florida filled the news. In a parallel timeline, less fun stories of local fallout from the frozen weather began to trickle in. A number of local parents and residents contacted the paper directly to inform us of what they had been told about some of the issues at Soda Springs High School specifically. Since that information had come in part from the school itself and Principal Jess McMurray, we reached out to him about what happened last week, and what might be coming in the next weeks and months. District Superintendent Scott Muir was also involved in the conversation.
As a report of what occurred last week, Principal McMurray ex -
plained that “We had the heaters go out in the portables. We have a total of 4 heating units out there. We have been running on 2 of them. When one more went out, we had to remove students from the portable. It’s tough to learn when it’s 40 degrees! The other portable has only 1 of 2 heating units working as of now, however, that is enough to keep it rolling for the moment. 4 of 6 air handlers in the high school are not functioning. Because of the age of these units, we can’t order the coils for them…they need to be custom built. We were waiting to see what happened with the bond before we tackled the expense of ordering four custom built coils for these air handlers. One of those air handlers is essentially in the classroom that flooded. Last week’s long stretch of below zero temperatures caused a pipe to burst in the walls of the room.”
A bond for a new high school
building was defeated last fall, though the current building would still be facing the same problems this winter. A facilities inspection had determined that the life of the school building was nearing or at its expected endpoint, and many of the currently experienced issues had been noted in that evaluation.
Principal McMurray continued, “An ongoing problem with our elevator is when extreme cold temperatures happen, because it is on an outside wall, it quits working. This happened last week due to the extreme cold and our inability to properly heat the building. We do have students that need this to get to classes, so this definitely interrupts education. When the elevator does work, it interrupts 3 classes every time it is used as the elevator must be accessed through these three classrooms.”
SSHS On Page 3
Eggs in the news...again
Similar to the way the price of a gallon of gas is often used as shorthand for the strength of consumer buying power, the price of a dozen eggs is taking on iconic significance in recent weeks and months. The spike in egg prices over the last several years was often used as a shorthand way of pointing to out of control inflation throughout the economy, and the relative lowering of those prices did correspond with a notable decrease in the prices of consumer goods, especially at the level of grocery staples and commodities.
However, like the price of a gallon of gasoline, the price of a dozens eggs can’t be tied to simply overall economic inflation. Gas prices are affected by everything from weather events to military conflicts in oil-producing countries to announcements of new legislation to driving demands. They provide a useful index of some parts of the economy, but can’t be separated from many exigent factors.
Eggs now live in a similar lane. Recent reports have noted a foreboding uptick in the price of bellwether goods, but most experts have linked the increasing price of eggs to another outbreak of the Avian Flu, which results in the culling of laying hens and the subsequent strain on supply. Some potential uncertainty at the federal agencies tasked with regulating animals products is also injecting some volatility in the sector. In addition, anecdotally the weather has impacted the laying output of smaller scale, non-industrial egg production as well, which means that if you still have an arrangement with a neighbor or friend to supply you with farm-fresh eggs, make sure to stay on good terms with them!
Whether eggs remain an ongoing signal of the country’s economic condition or is just a passing obsession of the news media remains to be seen as the year unfolds. In my Monday route, I have to chance to pass through a number of different local markets, so I decided to get a quick inventory of prices as of this Monday, Jan 27. It is not complete or systematic, and it’s quite likely that the prices may have changed even from then to the Thursday this paper comes out.
Overall, prices around the area are mostly consistent. The lowest price I observed was at the Albertsons in Pocatello, at $5.99/dozen. Trust me, hearing that “the lowest price was at
Locally the highest price eggs were found in Lava Hot Springs as this picture shows.
Albertsons” will make anyone who spends time in Pocatello shake their head in disbelief. Prices in Malad and Preston were at bit higher at Thomas’ and Stokes’ charging $6.99. Lallatin’s and Broulim's in Soda Springs were close, with $6.29 and $6.37 respectively. The Grace Market was on the higher end at just over $9 on Monday, but Lava Hot Springs had the highest price (excluding gas stations, which are a whole other story) with a dozen eggs at $10.89, or $16.39 for 18. I’ll make a weekly check as I make my rounds, and if the price of eggs continues to be a subject of fascination, I’ll make sure to provide updates!
Hiroto Ogiwara lands 2340 at X Games
19 year old Japanese snowboarder Hiroto Ogiwara landed the first ever 2340 snowboarding trick at the X Games in Aspen, Colorado on Friday. The men’s snowboard Big Air event saw a rapid escalation of attempts at similar spins before Ogiwara nailed his run, which involved six and a half rotations in the air off the ramp while holding a mute grab. The trick earned him an amazing 97.33 score, and out him three points over second place Taiga Hasegawa, and New Zealand’s Rocco Jamieson.
Hearings
test DNA rules in Kohberger case
Hearings underway in the trial of Bryan Kohberger are taking up the issue of private ancestry DNA sites as potential resources for identification in criminal investigations. Kohberger has been charged with the killings of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin in November of 2022. The defense’s primary case is that Investigative Genetic Genealogy was not noted in the probable cause affidavit or any of the warrants in the case, and so DNA recovered from a knife sheaf recovered from the scene should not have been permitted to be submitted to the outside DNA lab for analysis. The defense claim is that such an investigation is privacy violation of the owner of the DNA. The state contends that the argument does not create a fourth amendment violation, unless Kohberger has a pre-existing contractual arrangement with the Genetic Ancestry company, which there is no proof that he does. IGG has most famously been used in the discovery of Joseph D’Angelo, the “Golden State Killer/Original Night Stalker” in recent years.
Grocery Tax Credit before legislature again Idaho’s grocery tax credit is before the legislature in the form of House Bill 61 (Food Tax Credits and Refunds), which would increase the grocery tax credit from $120 per resident to $155. The increase would represent an increase of 29%, as envisioned by its author Rep. Jason Monks. The grocery tax credit has been very popular in the state since its introduction, and there is no danger if its elimination, although the bill has raised the accompanying discussion of exempting groceries from sale tax. In states where such an exemption has been put into effect, the added effort required at the regulatory level to determining which items purchased in a grocery store constitute “food” has made the process very inefficient. Items such as soda, sports drinks, candy, snacks, and so on can be difficult to categorize for the purposes of this type of legislation.
Turkey hunt applications open Feb 1 Turkey hunters looking to apply for 2025 spring controlled turkey hunts can apply from Feb 1 to March 1. Hunters must have a 2025 hunting license in order to apply for controlled hunts, and there is a non-refundable application fee of $6.25 for residents and $18.00 for nonresidents. Hunters can submit an application at any license vendor location or F&G Office, or online at GoOutdoorsIdaho.com.
Below zero temperatures last week strained Soda Springs High School facilities. Temperatures have improved for this week but many of the same issues will persist.
Winter Ice Formations in Grace
While the cold, snow, and ice (along with the accompanying wind) can be responsible for a lot of damage and destruction over the course of the winter months, sometimes the trade off comes in the form of remarkable winter scenery. While the pictures don’t quite capture the in-person experience, hopefully they do communicate something of the odd, colorful beauty of what seems like a fantasy landscape in the right light.
The wooden water pipeline that runs through Grace initially caught my eye the other week, when I noticed a small stream of water spraying out of the top and apparently freezing into a aqua blue arc below it. After speaking with the city office, I was assured that the occurrence was a familiar one in the winter, and that the structure itself was managed by Rocky Mountain Power. By all reports, there are plans to upgrade the pipeline to a metal one in order to prevent this kind of water loss, which of course is good news in terms of conservation.
It’ll be a bit of a shame, though, as the resulting ice show is a pretty neat sight!
Friends of the Library announce Festival total; elect new officers
Beth Cherriet, newly elected president of the Friends of the Library, reported that during the Festival of Trees a total of $10,000 was raised by the community. Last December’s Festival was reported to be the largest yet in the history of the library, and certainly brought in a standing room only crowd of bidders, library fans, and Christmas well-wishers. In addition to major sponsors A+ Contractors and Cozy B Quilts, the Festival saw trees and wreaths donated by dozens of local and regional groups, all in the service of supporting programs at the library.
“It’s a place where we can always go, whatever the weather is like. My kids love the library!” Shany Beaman noted during the Festival. Like many people, she ended up volunteering to help at the event out of appreciation for the resources the library offers the community.
“We are so thankful for the support,” Beth Cherriett said. “This event was truly a community-wide effort, and we are so grateful!”
In addition to the regular library staff who are essential to the library’s operation and services, the Friends of the Library work to support its efforts through fundraising and event organization. Due to the way the library is constituted as a part of the city government, the Friends are the primary fund-raising arm of the institution.
will serve as the Library Liaison to the Friends.
According to Dorajo Messerly and Library Director Hope Hansen, there is a lot planned for 2025. Some of the events are still under wraps, but the plans underway include a mixture of some of the time honored and much-loved activities like the Summer Reading program, which will hold their spots on the calendar alongside some new and intriguing sounding new additions.
Beyond the reading-based activities, the Library has also worked to build space for clubs and groups, like those interested in board games, D&D, Lego construction, crafting, early childhood education, and much more. One upcoming event that has been officially announced is a costume exchange scheduled for the fall. As the year rolls on, those who find themselves spring cleaning or anticipating “sizing up” their children’s costumes can donate them to the library for a planned costume exchange. The library staff asks that the donations be put in Ziploc bags with the size written on the outside. Donations will be taken until September 2.
Information on other future events will be coming soon, but congratulations to the Friends and the Library on the impressive Festival of Trees for 2024— here’s hoping that 2025 is even more spectacular!
The Southeastern Idaho Public Health Department announced through its regional office that SIPH is once again partnering with ISU and others to provide pediatric dentistry services during the second week in February.
“To prevent oral diseases in children, Southeastern Idaho Public Health is partnering with Idaho State University Dental Hygiene Department, Pocatello Family Dentistry, and area dentists to provide a free day of dental care. This annual program, Give Kids A Smile, is by appointment only and will be held in Pocatello, on Saturday, February 8th from 9:00 am- 1:00 pm at the Idaho State University Dental Hygiene Clinic, 999 Martin Luther King
Drive (Building #37).
Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease found in children. The social impact of oral diseases in children is substantial. More than 51 million school hours are lost each year to dental-related illness. Pain and suffering due to untreated diseases can lead to problems in eating, speaking, and attending to learning.”
Families that have children in need of dental services that do not have dental insurance or have limited access to dental care can call Dana Solomon at Southeastern Idaho Public Health at 208.239.5256 to schedule an appointment. If more information is needed, please call April Sluder at 208.478.6314.
The incoming Friends of the Library officers are Beth Cheirrett, serving as President; Kate Lauck as Vice President; Sabrina Mills as Secretary; Erica Goode as Treasurer, and Paige Messerly as the Marketing Director. Dorajo Messerly, Children’s Librarian,
Avalanche Awareness Course at Tigert Feb 7, 8
Paul Gritton reminds residents that “Avalanche class is coming up Feb. 7 & 8. Classroom 7th, with a field day the 8th. This class is put on by the Idaho Dept. of Parks & Rec. A minimum number of folks have to be signed up before they will come teach the class. Last check showed only 2 people signed up. This is excellent training and free, and should be taken advantage of as it might save a life.
Information about the event and registration can be found on https://reced. idaho.gov/Course/GetCourseSiteDetails?courseSiteId=6271. If the link doesn't work, visit the reced.idaho.gov, visit to Snow section and find the Soda Springs Class and register. Please share with friends and family!
Caribou County Market Animal
Weigh-In dates
Beef March 1st at 1 pm at the fairgrounds in Grace. You will need to have a bill of sale or a Brand Inspection. The State Brand Inspector will be there and you must pay for a brand inspection. It will cost you $3.00.
Swine April 12 at 9 am at the fairgrounds in Grace. You must have a C.O.O.L form signed by the person you bought your pig from or a bill of sale. If you need a C.O.O.L form it can be found on ZSuites in the shared files portion.
Sheep May 31st at 8 am at the fairgrounds in Grace. You must have a C.O.O.L form signed by the person you bought your sheep from or a bill of sale. If you need a C.O.O.L form it can be found on ZSuites in the shared files
A text notification subscription for library events and dates has been introduced, and can be found at https://mailchi.mp/2cd60f46b7e7/ subscribe or through the Facebook page for “Friends of the Soda Springs Library.”
portion. All Sheep must have a scapie tag. Ask your seller to make sure they have one.
Meat Goat May 31st at 9 am at the fairgrounds in Grace. You must have a C.O.O.L form signed by the person you bought your meat goat from or a bill or sale. If you need a C.O.O.L form it can be found on ZSuites in the shared files portion. All Goats must have a scapie tag. Ask your seller to make sure they have one.
Important update for this year! To ensure a more accurate representation of weights and values, Market Animal Record Books will be due on August 15th, after the fair. A $100 fine will be imposed for late submissions. Additionally, checks will be held until the record books are turned in, judged, and receive at least a red ribbon.
If you have any questions call the Extension Office at 208-547-3205
Caribou County Rodeo Queen Update
The Caribou County Rodeo Queen Committee met last week and decided for the upcoming contest this year, they will waive application fees for any applicants who attend one of the following rodeo queen clinics this year—the Rodeo Queen Boot Camp Clinic or the Basic Training Rodeo Queen Clinic. The group has also decided that again this year they will sponsor any contest winners who want to compete at the state level up to $400. Information about the upcoming clinics, as well as the awesome prizes for all the winners and saddle for our Senior Queen at www.cariboucountyrodeoqueen.com.
Left to right: Dorajo Messerly (Children’s Librarian and Friends liaison), Beth Cheirrett (volunteer event planner for the festival), Hope Hansen (Library Director), Telisha Hayes (librarian), Paige Messerly (Friends Secretary), Caleb Messerly (volunteer), Jessie Ineck (Friends Vice President).
Fish and Game Corner
Haven’t tried ice fishing yet? Here’s what you’re missing
BY ROGER PHILLIPS, IDAHO FISH AND GAME
Ice fishing is a fun way to get out during winter and take along your family and friends
If you haven’t tried ice fishing, you’re missing out on a fun, inexpensive winter activity that’s a great way to catch lots of tasty fish. Prime ice conditions for fishing varies by region depending on climate, elevation, and other factors, but typically late December through mid February are good times.
Three to four inches of solid ice is the minimum to support a person, and thicker ice is needed for groups. Here’s more information about ice fishing safety. Conditions can also change quickly, so use good judgment before heading out on the ice, and remember you’re responsible for your own safety.
Idaho has ice fishing in nearly every part of the state. No matter where you live, an ice fishing destination is probably within a couple hour’s drive and likely no more than three hours. If you don’t live near one, make it a weekend trip and stay at a motel, or if you have an RV, check if there’s a place to stay (preferably with electric hookups to run a heater). Think of it as a mini vacation and a fun winter getaway.
Here are some reasons why you should try ice fishing:
It’s a good way to get outside during winter. Ice fishing is not just another fishing trip—it’s a whole different fishing experience. You can make it as simple or as technical as you want. To start, drop a baited hook through the ice and wait. It’s really that simple. But as you progress, you can add multiple rods (up to 5 per person), various baits and
SSHS
Weather predictions in the medium term call for similar weather over the rest of this week, with highs in the thirties and lows in the mid teens. Next week should see some warming, as high are forecast to be in the forties, which should alleviate strain on the facilties.
According to Principal McMurray and Superintendent Muir, the issues at the high school were responded to very quickly and efficiently. “Fortunately,” McMurray stated, “this past Friday we had a teacher in-service day so the leak was reported very early in the morning. If it had not been a teacher in-service day the water would have poured into the school for a lot longer period of time. Ironically, during the fire a couple years ago, had we not had a volleyball practice that morning, the building would have been decimated!”
On the same day, “Mr. Muir had a restoration crew in the building last Friday by 11:30 a.m.! Rick Christiansen had the elevator up and running by late morning on the day it quit working! As far as the heat in the portables, we are comparing cost of repairing vs new heaters, so we do not have a solution for our students there yet. We will continue to pursue new coils for the air handlers this summer.”
During discussion of the bond issue last year, there was a lot of discussion about the maintenance of the current building in conjunction with the need for a new one. McMurray responded to some of those issues: “I have heard com -
tackle, electronics, and maybe a sled, snowmobile, or ATV to get all your gear out to prime fishing spots. It’s not as cold as it might seem. There’s no getting around it: You’re standing on a sheet of ice. But think of it as the opposite of the old cliche “but it’s a dry heat.”
On a calm, sunny day, it can be amazingly comfortable on the ice, even when the thermometer is reading single digits. Part of that is the radiant heat from the sun, and the other part is dressing in layers so you can add and subtract clothing and adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.
It’s surprisingly beginner-friendly. Ice fishing may seem specialized, and part of it is because it’s the only type of fishing that requires an
ments from patrons that the high school has not been maintained as well as it should. I cannot attest to what has happened in the past 60 years, however, I can tell you that our current maintenance crew is absolutely topnotch. Rick and Rob are very thorough and forward thinking. They respond to issues quickly and efficiently and take great pride in their work. Rick has been the lead maintenance person at the high school for only the past 5 years and Rob was hired only a few months ago. Had these gentlemen been here at the high school for the past 60 years I have no doubt that we would not be where we are now. If things were not maintained properly decades ago, that is not something that our current students and teachers should have to suffer for.”
Muir and McMurray pointed to some of the immediate issues that will need to be monitored, including the temperature inside the building, space (“we will have classes going in the library for the unforeseen future because we can’t use the one portable”), leaks… (“this is an annual event!”) and the boiler (“…it came over on the Mayflower…when it goes down. We will have to figure out how to replace it as well”).
Many of the parents who reached out to us expressed concern about their children’s comfort and safety in light of the weather. McMurray explained that “Due to these challenges in our area this winter at the high school, we will have leaking roof disruptions, space issues, etc. however, these maintenance issues aren’t necessarily what makes stu -
ice auger. But aside from that, nearly any fishing gear will work.
If you decide to buy your gear, an ice fishing rod/reel combo is inexpensive, and honestly, a lot of fun to fish with because even a modest-sized fish feels big. Check out Fish and Game’s ice fishing page (https:// idfg.idaho.gov/fish/ice-fishing?no_ cache=1544155370) for more information about ice fishing basics, where to ice fish, and important safety information.
Fishing can be fast, furious, and fun. Like all fishing, there are no guarantees the fish will bite. But when they start biting, fishing can be fast-paced because you’re trying to hook and land fish and keep all your lines baited and in the water.
dents at SSHS unsafe. One of the safety concerns I have is actually the portables themselves. We have had parents and students bypass checking in at the office and go into the portables. This creates a safety concern for our outdoor classrooms.” Principal McMurray noted that the portables could not be secured in the same way as the main building, which necessarily created a safety issue when they were in use that was his primary concern in that area.
Asked what the biggest concerns in the immediate timeframe are, McMurray stated: “HEAT! The first bid for heating units for the portables came in at $25,000 and this did not include the other portable. The coils in the four air handlers that aren’t currently working need to be custom built. This will run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. We need to make it safe for students in the portables. The roof needs repaired as we have annual leaks with our existing roof. As everyone knows, post-pandemic prices are just ludicrous, and we just quite simply do not currently have funds to fix all the things that need fixed here at the high school.”
Until either a bond or other source of funding is secured, the district will work down a priority list to ensure that students are able to attend school safely, but the school and the district acknowledge the anxiety that may exist. “I would ask the community to work with us, be patient and know that we are doing what we can in order to ensure a safe environment for our students,” McMurray said. “We would ask that
Catch a few fish through the ice and you will quickly understand why people get hooked on ice fishing. Ice fishing can be a combination of fishing and tailgating. Bring a camping stove or grill, some food, your favorite beverages, camp chairs, a heater, etc. The only challenge is getting all your gear out on the ice, but an inexpensive plastic toboggan can haul a surprising amount of cargo. If you have a snowmobile or ATV, there are trailers and sleds that are great for hauling more cargo. Adding food and drinks—especially warm meals and hot drinks—makes the outing more comfortable and enjoyable.
There’s plenty of room for everyone. There’s no shortage of space on a frozen lake, which is not always the case when you’re trying squeeze people into a boat, or even in shorelines with limited fishing space. The whole lake, reservoir, or pond is available and everyone has room to spread out. You can also try other spots by just walking across the ice. Kids love ice fishing because they can play and have fun on the ice if fishing is a little slow.
The fish taste better. That may sound like an old wive’s tale or a boast by ice anglers, but there’s scientific evidence that backs it. The “muddy” taste you sometimes hear about from fish can be caused by blue green algae, which can proliferate during warmer months. Blue green algae is gone, or greatly diminished, in cold and frigid water, so it no longer affects the fish’s taste. Ice fishing is traditionally about catching fish for eating, so indulge, but stay within the bag limits, which you can find in the fish
ing rules booklet.
if you have questions please reach out to the school or the district office. We would welcome any questions and concerns you might have. Please contact us so we can assist you in understanding the challenges we are addressing.”
In terms of how the repair priorities will be determined, Superintendent Muir noted that “our Facilities committee will meet at the minimum on a monthly basis so that we can address the issues at the high school and across the district as they arise. We are open to direct communication from concerned patrons and hope that you will work to assist us during these challenging times.”
One of those who reached out to us, Rachel Gelser, put it well when she said, in part: “this affects our children. Our future generation. This affects their learning also because it can be stressful on both the students and the staff to be cold… This really breaks my heart! I think this school district has amazing teachers and staff that are doing such a great job! They seem to really care about the students here and I appreciate everything they have taught my children and continue doing so. I hope we can someday get the funding to upgrade. A good education is so important. The students and staff should be able to be comfortable. In a community like this we really need to take care of our future generations.”
As developments continue, we will keep you updated in the school district’s ongoing work to keep the high school open and safe for its students.
Ice fishing laws are essentially the same throughout the state of Idaho.
Grace Resident completes book of memories
Two different people suggested that I speak with Grace resident Barbara Willes (whose full name is Barbara Louise Marshall Black Willes) recently, and I’m not one to ignore a sign from the universe. And as is often the case, the universe was right! Willes is a delightful conversationalist and a “life long learner” who could teach anyone a thing or two.
In fact, teaching is something that Barbara has also done throughout her life. She initially received her degree in Home Economics. After that, she taught, at the very least, Home Economics, Physical Education, Health, 6th grade, 2nd grade, and decades worth of lessons at the church. Throughout her career, she taught Chicago, in Provo, in Orem, in Goshen. She has taught in elementary schools, high schools, and junior highs, and even senior centers..
She grew up in Panguitch, Utah in 1926, where her father owned “the only drug store in three counties. And he was the only one around for fifty years!” Her father was also the mayor for many years, and she remembers having a great life there during her early years, growing up as one of seven children in the home. Her six siblings have passed away, and as Barbara says, “I’m the only one who made it to eighty…but I’m also the only one who made it to ninety, and ninety-five, and ninety-eight…” and laughs.
As Barbara notes, being born when she was in 1926 makes her “almost 98 and a half!” That lifetime of experience is instantly felt in speaking with her. She has a quick smile and something to say about almost anything you could bring up.
“One of my goals is to make it to 100,” she says casually, and it seems like a safe bet. While most of her siblings experienced Alzheimers in their later years, Barbara has had a remarkably healthy life. As daughter Linda Toone explained, “We think those three things—enjoying hobbies, keeping her mind sharp and her body active every day—are what have kept her thriving for the last 25 years.” Linda notes, however that “she’s finally started to slow down! In fact, just this last month when she’s caught a couple of colds— I’ve seen her take a nap on her bed a few times—which I’ve never seen her do my entire life! So she’s finally starting to act her age!”
Hobbies are a big part of Barbara’s regimen. After her second husband passed in 1999, she found some hobbies that she really loved, according to Linda, including an astonishing array such as “woodworking, wheel-thrown pottery, photography, stained glass, writing, cruising, and so on.”
For someone who loves to learn, staying busy in body and mind is a must. “She’s a voracious reader, and also loves jig-saw puzzles and Word Search books. For years she drove to nearby University Mall in Orem at 7:00 every morning (except Sunday, of course) to walk three miles. She always had something to memorize in her shirt pocket—poems, scriptures, the Preamble to the Constitution, etc. She continued that until Covid shut down the mall.”
Callie Hamp at the Grace Library talks about Barbara with a large smile. “She’s one of our best visitors—I’m
surprised she isn’t here right now! On the days she’s at home by herself, she usually walks down here. She’ll say ‘I’m on my own today, so here I am!”
During our conversation, Barbara mentioned her younger brother, Don Marshall, who passed away in 2022 as a much-loved Emeritus professor at BYU. “My mother said ‘Don teaches Humanities at the University—what in the world is that?’ and I went down to see. Then I kept going to as many of his classes as I could. At one point, it was me and three or four grandkids in the front row, learning everything we could!” Barbara remembers.
As part of a range of courses Marshall taught over the years, he founded the university’s international cinema program, and Barbara spent many days watching films from around the world with him. While the BYU community exposed Willes to a diversity of cultural and international influences, she has also been a student of the life of the mind, and her own personal experience.
In fact, she used to teach a class she called “writing about your life history one story at a time” at the Provo and Orem Senior Centers for from 1998 until she moved up to Grace to live with her daughter Linda and son-in-law Curtis Toone. Even after she retired as a teacher, it’s a habit she maintains, whether that involves teaching her friends, peers, family, and anyone else with a curious mind.
“Each person would write a story every week, and then bring it to the class and read it to the class.” There were about fifteen people in the class. There were never any assigned topics, Barbara just asked each person to pick a “snippet from their life.”
“And that’s what she did too,” Linda notes, paging through the book proof of Barbara’s collected writings.
“That’s what all those are,” Barbara laughs. “My snippets!” Looking over at Linda, she adds, “now don’t mess those pages up or you’ll be in trouble.”
When teaching her classes on writing about one's life, she was fond of making the analogy that “when an elderly person dies, it’s as if a library has burned down.”
It’s a valuable
point—the vast majority of what any one person experiences mostly stays in their own mind, and leaves when they do. To that end, Barbara believes in the importance of keeping a record of your own life so that it doesn’t similarly disappear.
Over the course of her life, Barbara has had a lot to remember. Her first husband, Linda’s dad, died when Linda was only 5 in 1959. Barbara’s second husband died in 99. For Linda and her siblings, Barbara was the connecting thread. “She was a wonderful mother,” Linda says.
“Well, what else could you say when I’m right here,” Barbara laughs. But it’s pretty obvious that Linda is being heartfelt.
“You instilled such confidence in me, and sometimes I think I didn’t deserve all that confidence,” Linda laughs. “But you always said you can set your mind to do whatever you want, and you can be whatever you want to be, and all those kinds of things that make you feel like you can go out and conquer the world.”
Barbara ended up raising seven kids, of which Linda is the second, with 22 or so years between the youngest and the oldest.
“From 49 to 69,” Barbara adds.
“It seemed like she was parenting all the time,” Linda said. “She was an amazing mother for a lot of years.”
“I had to be, I had seven kids!” Barbara says.
Linda points out the since the last three were adopted, it is clear that there is something about motherhood she really enjoyed.
BYU recently sent a proof of Barbara’s book, and said “make sure that everything is the way you want it before we print it. So, mom proofread it herself after we had put it into the computer, and found 70 pages out of 482 with problems,” Linda laughs. “I’m really glad you proofread it, though,” she says to her mother, “you caught them all!”
Most of the book involves stories and poems that she’s written over the years, leading up to her the new chapter of her life in Grace.
She has lived in Grace since December of last year, and the first thing that she has to say about it is that “it’s awfully cold! I thought Panguitch was
cold, but this is much colder. Eventually, I will get acquainted with everyone.” After living in Orem for the last sixty-plus years, she does note that she likes the quiet of Grace.
“Orem was quiet in my day, but not any more,” Linda says, having grown up in that area.
The adjustment has been an ongoing one, but she says that she been welcomed in warmly, especially by her new ward just down the block. Like the library, the church is just within walking distance for her. Her rollator walker is in the garage at the moment, but as she says, “the first sign of summer, I’m going to get that out and then I’m on my way again!”
Anyone who has met Barbara Louise Marshall Black Willes will have no doubt that she will be!
Going Home in Search of my Chidlhood
By Barbara Willes
Every time I go back home I get that lonesome feeling. And as I walk across the lawn Old memories come stealing. My memories of vines and ivy
Climbing up the wall, And yellow roses by the porch
Bring smiles as I recall
The yellow taffeta dress I wore-
A Shirley Temple style, Matched the roses perfectly. I stand remembering quite a while. The vines and roses may be gone, But I can see them still, And memories come rushing backMy eager mind to fill.
As I walk through the front door, The first thing that I miss Is Mom’s and Pop’s “Here’s Bessie,” And my “welcome home” type kiss.
The big round table’s missing From the middle of the floor, Taking with it memories Of big dinners, games, and more. The soft light of the fireplace And the corner Christmas tree Have vanished from the parlor, But their memories I still see.
I search along the bookcase shelves For books that I once read. I rummage through the dresser drawers And boxes ‘neath the bed.
Searching for some thread of youth, Some remnant of my pastA picture, diary, something I could cling to-make it last.
I fling the closet open, Remembering games and dolls, Then quickly search the shelves above, But nothing-just bare walls.
Rushing down the hall, I open Cupboard doors to see If I can find some remnants Of my childhood poetry.
Just linens and some boxes, Now empty-nothing there. I stir through things quite frantically For something I can share.
It’s gone—
My childhood is gone— But memories still cling To the inner surface of my mind And happiness they’ll bring.
Linda Toone and her mother, Barbara Willes, stand together in the living room of their home in Grace.
Left: Barbara putting on a play with her brother Joe.
Right: The three Marshall daughters in later years; Millie, Evalyn and Barbara.
SENIOR CITIZENS’ CORNER February 2025
February is well known as “American Heart Month''. Heart disease if the #1 leading cause of deaths in the U.S. Below are some tips and items to keep in mind while promoting one's heart health. Choose more unsaturated fats and less saturated fats. Saturated fats include: those that stay solid at room temperature: Butter, Animal Fats, Lard, etc.. Unsaturated fats include those that are liquid at room temperature: Olive oil, vegetable oil, avocados, etc. Consuming less salt. Rinse any frozen and canned foods, salt is often used as a preservative. Thoroughly rinse under running water a couple of times will help to reduce sodium content. Keep the saltshaker off the table! We often salt our food before tasting it. Look for sodium substitutes i.e., Seasoning, citrus, herbs (fresh or dry). Encourage foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as they promote positive heart health by reducing triglycerides in one's blood serum. Fish, especially salmon, avocados, olive oil, walnuts, flaxseeds, etc.
With all the dietary tips listed above, it's important to remember that exercise also plays such an important role in heart health. Understandably so, with colder temperatures we tend to stay indoors during this time. Get creative and use any resources available to you: walk a few laps at your grocery store or grab a friend and walk/stretch/lift light weights (i.e. cans of food).
Seasonal foods in February
Citrus fruits - oranges, limes, grapefruit, etc. Fennel, cabbage, broccoli pomegranates
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate has many heart health properties compared to milk or semi-sweet. Dark chocolate is very high in flavonoids, a specific type of antioxidants (also found in wine and apples) that has been shown to decrease risk of heart disease, cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, and blood clots.
Dark Chocolate Covered Treats
Ingredients
• 2 regular size dark chocolate candy bars (or 6 oz of bagged dark chocolate chips)
• 2 cups of fruit and nuts, any kind!
• Strawberries, blueberries, pitted cherries, bananas, etc.
• Dried cranberries, raisins
• Shelled pistachios and pecans
Directions
Line a baking pan with wax paper.
In a microwave safe bowl add in dark chocolate and melt for 30-second intervals, mixing in between. Once dark chocolate has melted, submerge half way all fruits and nuts, one at a time. Lay out on a wax paper lined pan. Once complete, set in the refrigerator for at least 5 min until solid. Enjoy this simple, rich and heart healthy treat!
CARIBOU COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS' MENU
Every meal served with Juice/Milk/ Coffee
Jan. 31 - Beef Enchiladas, Green Salad, Fruit Cake, Green Rice, Peach Cobbler
Feb. 5 - Swiss Steak, Baked Potato, Apples, Potato Bread, Snickerdoodles
Feb. 7 - Sweet & Sour Chicken, Rice, Pineapple, Sourdough, Pistachio Cake
Feb. 12 - Chicken Noodle Soup, Mashed Potatoes, Mandarins, Oatmeal Bread, Pretzel
BRAIN TEASERS
Feb. 14 - Cod w/Confetti Rice, Broccoli & Cauliflower, Dilly Bread, Applesauce, Red Velvet Cake
Feb. 19 - Tacos, Juice, Spanish Rice, Cooks Choice Dessert
Feb. 21 - Birthday Dinner, Grilled Ham n' Cheese, Cabbage Soup, Peaches, Birthday Cake & Ice Cream (served In-House only)
Feb. 26 - Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy, Beets, Banana, Berry Crisp
Feb. 28 - Chicken Enchiladas, Green Rice, Green Salad, Fruit Cocktail, Mexican Wedding Cake
EVENT CALENDARS LUNCH MENUS
SODA SPRINGS/ CARIBOU COUNTY
January 30 – Thursday
Library Story Time (10am)
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm) Addition Recovery Program (7pm)
IDAN-HA Movie
BBB @ Aberdeen
MS BBB @ Malad ES Neon Nights Family Dance
January 31 – Friday Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAN-HA Movie
Cardettes @ Upper Valley Classic
GBB w/Aberdeen
Wrestling @ Minico Tournament
February 1 – Saturday
IDAN-HA Movie
Cardettes @ Upper Valley Classic
BBB @ Declo
Wrestling @ Minico Tournament
February 2 – Sunday
Presbyterian Services
Caribou Bible Church Services
Catholic Mass (8:30am)
Open Arms Church Services
LDS Services Hope Lutheran Church
February 3 – Monday
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
February 4 – Tuesday GBB Districts
February 5 – Wednesday Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
IDAN-HA Movie
Caribou Quilt Club (10am)
BBB w/Wendell
MS BBB @ West Side Red Cross Blood Drive
BIRTHDAYS
Rayola Bitton, Feb. 1
Thelma Bell, Feb. 2
Mark Tompson, Feb. 3
Roger Moore, Feb. 4
Amelia Mae Crump, Feb. 6
LaRae Rasmussen, Feb. 7
Betty Moore, Feb. 7
JoAnn Rhodes, Feb. 11
Ulla Soderman, Feb. 12
Greg Elam, Feb. 13
Jan Barnes, Feb. 14
Dawn Briggs, Feb. 14
Margaret Barker, Feb. 15
GRACE
January 30 – Thursday
Library Story Hour (10am)
GBB @ Butte
BBB @ Butte
JH BBB w/Marsh Valley K-3 Cub of the Month Assembly
January 31 – Friday
Wrestling @ Sugar Salem
February 1 – Saturday Wrestling @ Sugar Salem
GBB w/Cokeville
February 2 – Sunday
LDS Services
Caribou Bible Church (2pm)
February 5 – Wednesday City Council
BANCROFT
January 30 – Thursday
MS Ski Trip
GBB @ American Heritage BBB @ American Heritage
February 1 – Saturday GBB District Play in Game
February 2 – Sunday
LDS Services
February 3 – Monday
MS BBB w/Rockalnd
BBB @ Richfield School Board Mtg. (6:30pm)
February 4 – Tuesday GBB Districts
SODA SPRINGS LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Milk
Monday, February 3
Quesadilla, Tortilla Chips
Tuesday, February 4
Chicken Mashed Potato Bowl
Wednesday, February 5
Breakfast Sandwich, Hash Brown
Patty
Thursday, February 6
Hot Dog, Baked Beans
NORTH GEM LUNCH MENU
Milk and Choice of Bar Each Day
Monday, February 3
Orange Chicken, Biscuits & Gravy, Green Beans, Pineapple Tidbits
Tuesday, February 4
Meatball Sub Sandwich, Roasted Squash, Peach Parfait
Wednesday, February 5
BBQ Pork Sliders, Spinach Salad, Mixed Fruit
Thursday, February 6
Soft Shell Tacos, Hot Beef n Cheese, Mexican Street Corn, Pears
GRACE LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Milk
Monday, February 3
Popcorn Chicken, Fried Rice, Food Choice – Green Beans or Pears
Tuesday, February 4
Pepperoni Cheese Bread, Food Choice – Green Salad or Cinnamon Applesauce
Wednesday, February 5
Chili, Cinnamon Roll, Food Choice – Corn or Mandarin Oranges
Thursday, February 6
Breakfast Sandwich, Hash Browns, Food Choice – Fresh Veggies or Peaches
Blair Smith, Feb. 19
Verlene Humphreys, Feb. 21
Clay Gentry, Feb. 22
Barbara Hamilton, Feb. 23
Patsy Tarbet, Feb. 26
Mike Cannon, Feb. 28
If you would like to add yourself, your kids, loved one, friend or family member to our weekly birthday list, contact Sherrie at 208-766-4773 or email sherrie.w@idahoenterprise.com
NEWS OF RECORD
SODA SPRINGS POLICE
Li Dehong, Changchun, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50 Luis F Duran Romero, Salt Lake City, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Andrew Anthony Fuhr, Los Angeles, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Eduardo Gonzalez Becerra, Kearns, operate vehicle without a current or valid class d/operators license, $150.00, costs $157.50
IDAHO STATE POLICE
Aaron Vexler, Eden, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
MAGISTRATE COURT
Garrett Thomas Allen, Rolla, driving without privileges, $150.00, costs $172.50, unlawful to purchase, consume or possess alcoholic beverage under 21 years of age, $300.00, costs $187.50 – Agency: SSPD
ON THIS DAY
1790 Lifeboat first tested at sea, by Mr. Greathead, the inventor
1826 The Menai Suspension Bridge connecting the Isle of Anglesey to the northwest coast of Wales opens, considered the world’s first modern suspension bridge
1835 Richard Lawrence misfires at President Andrew Jackson in Washington, D.C. in first attempted assassination of a U.S. President
1894 Pneumatic hammer patented by Charles King of Detroit
1933 “Lone Ranger” begins a 21year run on ABC radio
1948 Mahatma Gandhi assassinated in the garden of the New Delhi home he was visiting by Hindu extremist Nathuram Godse
1956 Elvis Presley records his cover version of Carl Perkins’ song “Blue Suede Shoes”
1961 “I Fall to Pieces” single released by Patsy Cline (Billboard Song of the Year 1961)
1975 Erno Rubik applies for a patent for his “Magic Cube” invention, later to be known as a Rubik’s Cube
1992 Inventor Ray Kurzweil publishes his first book “The Age of Intelligent Machines’ on artificial intelligence, predicting the popularity of the internet
2002 Utah’s Karl Malone becomes 2nd player in NBA history to register 34,000 career points by scoring 18 in a 90-78 win over Chicago at the Delta Center; trails only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,387 points)
2017 Scientist in central China reveal oldest known human ancestor - 540-million-year-old Saccorhytus in a fossil
LOOKING BACK AT PAGES FROM THE PAST
The following stories are summarized from past issues of the Caribou County Sun over the last fifty plus years. The Enterprise thanks Mark Steele for permission to use the contents, and the Grace Public Library for access to the archives.
2020 An alleged burglar was apprehended by the Soda Springs Police Department Sunday night, after his footprints were found at a local business and was tracked in the snow until found, Chief Scott Shaw said. Jared Leach, currently living in Soda Springs, was arrested and charged with burglary and possession of burglary tools. The incident began when an officer on patrol noticed footprints in the snow at Caribou Motor Rewind and followed them, resulting in the arrest of the suspect in the Formation Avenue area. The suspect allegedly had gained entry at Lotts Insulation in the Industrial Park and stolen items from that business.
Mitch Hart and Scott Gambles were sworn in by Mayor Austin Robinson. Both are incumbents who will serve another four year each. City Director Alan Skinner gave a video presentation from a camera placed down the new city well at Formation Springs. It showed the 18-inch casing that was placed down 104 feet that was not perforated to seal off shallow water from entering in the new city well. That section will also house a 15 hp motor that can be placed into the well to pump even more water than the artesian well will naturally flow in potential times of heavy use in the future, or if the city’s Ledge Creek water use was shut off for repairs or emergencies. The well was then drilled at a 15inch diameter down to nearly 500 feet. The camera footage clearly showed the fault and fractures in the rock at various depths that allows the water to be pushed to the surface under pressure without having to be pumped. The artesian or flowing water produces about 1,800 gallons of water a minute without pumping, which will cover the city’s normal use and even an increase in use by 50 percent into the future. The city did agree to place a pump above the well that can be lowered into it to increase pumping flow in emergencies, and then withdrawn when not needed.
“We don’t really need it until we grow,” Director Skinner said. Grace High School inducted four teachers into its Hall of Fame for the past year. Judy Turner Beesley was born and raised in Grace. Her desire to become a teacher was fostered by one of her teachers, Florence Panter. Judy went on to a stellar career in education in the Madison School District in Rexburg. Not only did she teach English, but also was the recipient of several teaching awards, and also served as the President of the Idaho Council for Teachers of English. Judy was also an adjunct professor at Northwest Nazarene University and Western Governors University. She concluded her career as the assistant superintendent at the Madison School District.
Von Mendenhall was the son of educators. Both his parents taught at the Cove and Thatcher schools. Von was a member of the first state basketball team at Grace High School in 1955. After graduating from Utah State with his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, he received a PhD from Oregon State and shortly afterward began a 37-year teaching career at Utah State in the Agriculture Department. Von is the recipient of several teaching awards, including Professor of the Year from three different groups at Utah State. He also holds 5 U.S. patents.
Kip Panter graduated in 1970 from Grace High School and went on to attend college at Idaho State, Utah State, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and the University of Illinois, where he received his PhD degree in toxicology and veterinary bio-sciences. Kip also has spent
his teaching career at Utah State since the mid-1980s. His work has mainly been in conjunction with the USDA Agricultural Research Service. Mr. Panter has also served as an adjunct professor in the College of Ag’s Animal, dairy, and Veterinary Sciences Division, working in the Poisonous Plants Lab in North Logan.
Evelyn Allsop Dalton Twiss was born in Grace on Main Street, and along with her first husband, the late Jay Dalton, raised three children. Evelyn graduated from Idaho State College, enjoying her association with other students in the drama program, receiving awards for her acting skills and also participating in Summer Stock Theater at Glacier National Park. Having been asked to teach English in her first assignment, Evelyn proceeded to take her students to France, where they all studied French at the University of Strasbourg for a month. She taught English at Soda Springs High School for 30 years, then, after retiring taught for an additional seven years at Grace High School.
2005
The North Gem first grade students were bursting with enthusiasm as they made brownies in a jar last month. Mrs. Mary Kren, with the help of her husband, Superintendent Joseph Kren, presented the first Parent’s Teach and Tell lesson to the first grade students. The students eagerly placed all of the ingredients in the jars, learning about ingredients as they worked. They then decorated the tops of the jars with festive materials, making them look just right for a gift to their special someone. After completing the task, they all enjoyed brownies made by Mr. Kren and their son, Patrick. Cassie and Krystal Lloyd were student helpers on the project. The special event served as a springboard for enjoyable and creative writing as they wrote and illustrated their experience. Mrs. Hatch and the first grade want to thank the Kren family for giving them to opportunity to make brownies in a jar.
An annual public policy survey conducted by the Social Science Research Center at Boise State University shows that overall, residents are fairly happy with state affairs. Seventy percent of respondents said the state is headed in the right direction, up a full 7 percent from last year. This is the third year in a row that the satisfaction rate has increased. The SSRC, housed in the College of Social Sciences and Public Affairs, administered the 16th annual Idaho Public Policy Survey in an attempt to identify issues of public policy concern among Idaho citizens. The report provides significant information on public opinion to the Legislature, state agency personnel, and the public. When asked about the state sales tax, 64 percent say Idaho’s rate is about right. But Idahoans are split on whether or not to extend the 1 percent sales tax increase beyond the July 1, 2005 sunset date; 43 percent support
extending it or making it permanent, while 45 percent oppose it. 57 percent of respondents believe that student test scores should be used little or not at all as a factor in teacher salaries. 80 percent feel that school districts should rely on sate funding when constructing or remodeling school buildings. 47 percent identified as Republicans, 18 percent as Democrats, and the remaining percentage undecided or independent.
2000
Trimesters were discussed at last week’s Soda Springs School Board meeting, with presentations made by staff and the high school principal. Superintendent Lawrence Rigby said that SSHS Principal Michael Button reviewed trimesters versus semesters to see if the trimester system had achieved what was expected since the school made the change from semesters a few years back. Rigby reported that the principal said there had been less discipline problems and a better attitude in classes because of the move to have three trimesters rather than two semesters. “Mr. Button is convinced there are more advantages than disadvantages to staying with trimesters,” Rigby said after the board meeting. Representatives of the music programs noted that the fact that students often took two, rather than three, trimesters of music program courses affected the continuity and coherence of the school’s music groups. Further input was determined to be necessary before the district would make any decisions on returning to trimesters. The issue of instituting a closed campus at the high school was also discussed, with some widespread agreement that access to campus was too “loose” at present.
The Performing Arts Committee in Grace agreed not to schedule a performance within four weeks of a scheduled school play unless the performance only requires the stage in front of the curtain. This agreement will be effective starting 2000, and will continue indefinitely unless either party requests a change. After the agreement was completed, the PAC announced that they had also approved an additional $500 for the school play in April. Chairman Don Jones reminded those present that since its inception, the PAC had contributed over $4,200 to the district cultural arts program, including $1,000 to the choir and bands. He thanked the school district for the cooperation they had received, including janitorial support and snow removal.
1995
The state director of the Department of Agriculture announced that he was lifting the self-imposed hold on the issuance of permits to private parties for the airborne control of predators. Every year, Idaho ranchers and wool growers suffer millions of dollars in losses due to predator attacks on livestock. Coyotes cause the most damage. In 1993, the most recent
year for which numbers are available, losses from coyotes were valued at $936,000. The Department of Agriculture is taking steps to help ranchers and wool growers precent these losses. Through the department, private parties can obtain permits for the airborne control of predators. These permits allow people to shoot or drive off predators from an aircraft. Without a state permit, these activities are illegal under federal law and can carry stiff penalties.
Cody Lee Harris was the first baby born in 1995 at Caribou Memorial Hospital. He arrived at 8:01 a.m. on Friday, January 6, to parents Andrea Harding and Whitt Harris. The New Year’s baby weighed in at 5 lbs. 8 ozs. and was 18 inches tall. He has five brothers and sisters, Nicole, Brandon, Mikey, Tshasha, and Benji. Cody’s grandparents are George and Diana Harris and Willie and Pam Call. Several prizes and awards were given away by local businesses, including the Chamber of Commerce, West One Bank, Ireland Bank, Lallatin Food Town, Rocky Mountain Signworks, Sanders Furniture, Holbrook Court, Betty’s Café, Chase Floral, Keith’s, Chase Floral, the Soda Shoppe, and others.
Camp Mount Sherman held its meeting Monday Jan. 16 in the Relief Society room in the Grace Stake Center, with Phyliss Gibson presiding and conducting. Miss Brenda Palmer, 1995 JV Teen Queen for Grace, accompanied by her mother, Diane Palmer, were special guests. The pioneer history of Marion M. Martin was given by Gladys Burton. By trade, Mr. Martin was a millright. Addie Stevens gave the lesson “Pioneer Journal,” the life of Mosiah Lyman Hancock. After the lesson, Beatrice Bennet, Afton Robinson and Pauline Christensen served refreshments.
Lyle and Anne Peck returned home after visiting with family and friends in Arizona, California, and Oregon. They spent the Thanksgiving holiday weekend with Anne niece and husband, Mellie and Bob Whipple, in Clarksdale, AZ, and visited with their daughter Marjorie and husband Bruce, and their family, where they attended a memorial service for Robert, Jr. The Grace Lady Grizzlies held on to beat a pesky Aberdeen squad last Wednesday to finish out their regular season in an overtime dual against the Tigers. The Grizzlies outscored Aberdeen 13-3 in the overtime after both teams battled through four tight quarters of basketball to win 53-41. Grace hit 23 of 30 free throws on the night, including nine in the overtime to seal the win. Cassie Gilbert was 4 for 4 and Christina Wright was 5 of 6 in the overtime period from the charity stripe. Wright led the team in points, followed by Heather Hardy, Sally Gepford, Billie Ann Randall, and Cassie Gilbert.
IDAN-HA THEATRE
-INDOOR-
Thursday, January 30
Friday, January 31
Saturday, February 1
Dog Man (PG)
When Greg the police dog and his cop companion are injured on the job, a life-saving surgery changes the course of history, and Dog Man is born.
Thursday, Friday & Saturday 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Saturday Matinee
2:00 p.m. (All seats $5)
Wednesday, February 5
6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. (All seats $5)
208-547-3282
Soda Springs City Council 1/22
The Soda Springs City Council met for the second meeting of January on the 22nd
Councilmember Rod Worthington, Council President Mitch Hart, and Attorney Tom Smith joined the meeting through Zoom.
Kelly Park
Sherrie Deiter spoke during the Citizen Input section of the meeting, raising the issue of signs at Kelly Park about trail resources. Deiter questioned the provenance of the signs, and explained that she had concerns about their directions for use of the park facilities. The signs generally advise trail users to avoid disrupting or destroying the groomed cross-country trails that run through the park on both the west and east sides of the parking lot. “I don’t feel like others of us are disturbing the skiiers,” Deiter noted. The council and city offcials said they would look into the signage issue.
A related issue concerning a camera on the trail was raised. The camera is not a city device, and because it is on public property there may be an issue with it. Anecdotally, the camera was said to have been put up to catch users of motorized vehicles on the trails.
The signs are at the entrance to the trails, and during the meeting the council examined pictures of the sings and camera and agreed that something needed to be done to clarify the situation.
It was discussed that any signs that are put up on city property need to be approved by the city. The balance between cross-country skiiers and the other users of the trail system is something that the council expressed optimism about resolving.
Kaylee Peck—Bayer
Kaylee Peck from Bayer, along with Ethan Walthermeier, updated the city council on the Caldwell Canyon mine project, which has recently reached a settlement with groups that had filed suit against the company. As reported the previous week to the County Commissioners, a settlement was reached with the plaintiffs regarding the primary issue, which was the protection of sage grouse habitat in the proposed mine area.
In the settlement, Bayer agreed to provide $5.1 mill for sagegrouse habitat restoration and $300K for population surveys. Some other concessions include procedural, such as a plan to limit rail usage before April 27, and moves to limit noise before lekking. [If like me, the word was new to you, a “lek” refers to the breeding grounds of the sage grouse. Leks are the areas where the male performs dances to attract mates. Excessive external noise is reported to interfere with the process.].
Another part of the settlement involves the outlay of $2.43 million for land purchases to support sage grouse habitat restoration and preservation. As was noted in the Commission meeting, the land might not be in Caribou County, or even in Idaho. The conservation groups involved will determine what they see as the most efficient/effective location for land to support to bird populations. According to the proposed timeline, a comment period for the project will last until Feb 3. Bayer requested that the city council consider the
issue and potentially provide comments to the federal authorities on the issue within that timeframe. Peck expressed Bayer’s hope that the project will be fully ready to proceed by the end of 2025.
President Hart made motioned to have the mayor sign the letter on behalf of the council and submit it to BLM, which was approved.
Trent Clark notes that members of the public are welcome to submit letters. The link will be provided to the City Clerk on the city website for citizens to post/ make their comments.
Projects
City Engineer Alan Skinner noted that there was “not a lot of construction going on this time of year,” but that bids for a contract for a pedestrian grant on 1st E to 3rd E will start when weather changes.
Chamber of Commerce
A discussion about the Chamber of Commerce continued. At the last meeting, the CoC requested the participation of the city, along with a membership commitment. President Hart noted that the city had been provided with information about the different levels.
President Hart motioned to become a member at the level of $2000, and that a member of the city should be selected to represent the city at the Chamber meetings.
Councilmember Paul Gritton, who is also a member of the Chamber as a business owner, noted” “From the onset of the Chamber of Commerce’s creation, it was a wish of mine that the city not have any executive control over the chamber. Should we for the record declare exactly what that representative from the city’s role would be in the chamber? I don’t think it wise that the city have any executive control in the chamber.”
President Hart agreed with the suggestion, stating, “I amend my motion to make the representative a member, but without any executive function. We have a voice, but we do not want to—real or perceived—have it seem the city is running the chamber.”
Tamara Henesh and Kent Loosle of the Camber board were present for the discussion. Loosle welcomed other businesses and organizations to join the explore and consider joining the Chamber of Commerce. Henesh reported that so far more than 30 businesses had become members.
Ender Brownfield Grant
President Hart reported on a grant from the EPA through Granite Peak to review and accept certain sites, buildings, facilities, etc to be evaluated as a precursor to apply for Brownfield Redevelopment grants. SICOG encouraged screenings to be submitted for Enders and the Hooper school. They provide a baseline of potential issues to be remediated. Once they are identified, another grant can be applied for to address them. Scott Muir has been spoken to, and has agreed to have the Hooper School in the queue.
President Hart is motioned to allow the mayor to sign a document allowing participation in the screening process to evaluate Enders and set the stage to secure a potential grant for one or both of those facilities. Enders has not had a phase 1 or phase 2 evaluation done, to Mitch’s knowledge.
Councilmember Gritton asked why Enders was being put forward for this evaluation, when its future with the city has not yet been decided.
President Hart gave the reason, “Because these assessments will provide a potential buyer more info, whether good or bad, about what they’re buying. I think some entities would be reluctant to buy without that information available.”
CM Gritton noted that the document “says that SICOG would have permission to perform enviro assessment and cleanup. Will that create a conflict?”
President Hart pointed to the discovery of something like asbestos, which he noted would have to be addressed whether the building was kept or not.“
It was clarified by Councilmember Ryan Carpenter in discussion that the assessment was a separate issue from any kind of cleanup, which would be up to whomever became the building’s owner. A subsequent grant, which necessitates the evaluation, could then be pursued with regard to that cleanup.
The council voted unanimously to pursue the grant.
Main Street
A list of utilities installed and the billing for the work on Main Street businesses during the Main Street project was completed, according to Director Skinner. Some business owners on the street expresses dissatisfaction throughout the process with the city’s billing for the services, which primarily involved connections to the new sewer and water lines. The issue will be returned to in future meetings, as the billing is now sent out. Longer term financing was briefly discussed at the meeting, but will presumably become a part of the ongoing discussion.
Justin Hansen
A sales agreement on a John Deere 44M tractor has been arranged. Adjustments to the street sweeper are being made, which should improve the efficiency significantly.
Dan Squires
Members of the Fire Department will be attending annual fire training that takes place in Burley. Feb 15-16.
Squires reported on a call recently where a sprinkler in the assisted living center had caused flooding in the building. The Fire Department stayed late into the night to help clean up the water.
Painting at treatment plant is ongoing, as well as routine maintenance.
There have been a number of issues over the last 3-4 days of extremely cold temperatures. Pipes have burst in several homes and businesses.
The Fire Department is making preparations for the Valentine’s Dance on February 14, which is planned to be held at Tigert Middle School, and will be open to adults, and kids 16 and up.
Hope Hansen--Library Library Director Hope Hansen reported that the linrary is looking into adding a Spanish storytime. The parents of some of the storytime’s attendees noted that they had friends who would be interested in helping to develop a storytime led by fluent Spanish speakers, which they felt would be a popular program at the library. “I will not be reading—I am
unilingual,” Hansen laughed.
Clerk Haderlie Clerk Andrea Haderlie will be taking a vacation soon, but otherwise the office is still working on year end items to close out 2024.
Attorney Tom Smith
At the last meeting, the issue was raised of rules limiting city employment to city residents. Smith has reached out to other attorneys throughout the state, and is beginning to received some information back on the subject. He will advise the council on the matter when sufficient information on it is available.
Nikki Hansen—Recreation
Director Hansen was not available for the meeting, but it was conveyed that there will be a consensus about what is going on as far as the recreation department’s activities covering competitive events on the one hand, and learning activities on the other. It was also communicated that the city needs volunteer coaches for many of the offered sports. So far, the rec department has had a hard time setting up gym time at the schools during the busy basketball and wrestling season.
NOTICES
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 Caribou Landfill Facility (Landfill) located at 1979 Central Rd, Grace, ID 83241. 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) 417-1625 or an electronic copy can be downloaded at: http://swti. org/caribou2. 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.
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LEGAL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that IDAWY Solid Waste District (District) has submitted to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) a Preliminary Design Application for the IDAWY Regional Landfill Facility (Landfill) located at 348 Diamond Gulch, Georgetown, ID 83239 (42° 34' 59.6" N, 111° 28' 43.8'' W). The purpose of this application is to provide preliminary design information for the construction of a Municipal Solid Waste Landfill 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,
Citizen Input Tamara Henesh of the Main Street Café asked for the list of who will be billed on Main Street, which was presented. She requested to be on the agenda for next time, because “I’m going to need a lot more than 3 minutes for what I have to say.”
Industrial Park Meeting Minutes approved from Feb 21, 2024.
Mayor is president, Clerk Haderlie is Secretary, and Rod Worthington is the VP. Approved. Meeting adjourned.
*The Industrial Development Corporation is one of these "on the book" oddities. It was created by state Code 50-27, and requires an annual meeting to "locate, construct, and maintain industrial development facilities." The corporation can issue revenue bonds for financing those facilities (which require an election). It can only incur debt that will be paid by revenues received from users of the industrial facility or proceeds of the revenue bonds. The city can accept US Government grants for the Public Corporation but cannot five or lend any funds or property to it. It was formed in Soda Springs in 1988, and most meetings are purely statutory.
Notice of 14-Day Public Comment Period and Public Open House for the Water Facilities Planning Study
The City of Grace, Idaho is currently in the process of completing a Water Facilities Planning Study. As part of this process, the public is invited to review a draft version of the study at Grace City Hall, for a period of 14 days beginning February 12, 2025 and ending February 26, 2025.
During this 14-day comment period, the City will hold an open house to discuss the study outcomes and the proposed improvements to the water system. The open house will be held:
February 12, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Grace City Hall 108 E. Center St. Grace, Idaho 83241
Citizens may also send written comments to any one of the following:
Mayor Jackie Barthlome –email – jbarthlomegracecity@ gmail.com Jared Richens – email –jrichens@kellerassociates.com
Individuals with disabilities, who require special accommodations to attend the open house or otherwise participate in the public comment period, must make a request with the City at least three (3) business days before the meeting by contacting the City of Grace, City Clerk Shelley Reeves at (208) 425-3533.
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(208) 417-1625. Office hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, except holidays. An electronic copy can also be downloaded at: http://swti.org/regional. The public is invited to comment on this preliminary design application. The 30-day comment period commences with the first publication of this announcement starting the week of January 27, 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.
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OBITUARY
LaMont Walter Archibald
July 8, 1930 ~ January 23, 2025
LaMont Walter Archibald, 94, passed away January 23, 2025, at his home in Soda Springs. He was born July 8, 1930, in Weston, Idaho, the first child for William (Willie) and Verda Nelson Archibald. He was raised in Weston and Grace, Idaho. He was an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Grace High School, class of 1948. He briefly attended Utah State Agricultural College and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He married Clara Louise Butler May 16, 1953, in Grace, Idaho. They were later sealed in the Logan, Utah temple. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He worked at and retired from Monsanto. Clara passed away November 5, 2011. He was an avid stamp collector. He started in his youth. He loved to hunt and was an excellent fly fisherman. He was a kind and generous man and will be greatly missed. He is survived by 2 daughters, Cheryl Ford (Brad) and Janet Moore (Kyle) of Soda Springs. 8 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-granddaughters. 2 sisters, Phyllis Osburn (Glen) and Daniece Storer (Willard) of Idaho Falls, Idaho. 1 brother Jerry Archibald (Karen) of Sandy, Utah and numerous nieces and nephews. He
was proceeded in death by his wife Clara, his parents, his son Steven, daughter-in-law, Lisa, 2 sisters and 1 brother.
Funeral services will be held Monday, February 3, 2025, at 12:00 noon at Sims Funeral Home, 139 E. 2nd S. in Soda Springs, Idaho. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Burial will follow at the Fairview Cemetery.
The many lives of cattle
BY ALLISON ELIASON
Believe it or not, cattle play a pretty vital part in your daily life. I’m not talking about their important role as they are paired with a tasty baked potato but the role they play away from the dinner table. Cattle are most often thought of as the appetizing sides of beef that they are, but because of that, many of their other important uses are overlooked. Those that are looking to put beef out of business because they are “harmful to the environment” don’t realize that ridding the menu of steaks and hamburgers also takes away the other important products they provide.
Cattle don’t just afford consumers a hearty, nutritious staple to feed their families. Aside from beef, cattle also provide important products that help make up many other kinds of staples in our homes. It may surprise you to learn that only 60% of a cow is used for consumption as beef. Skin, bones, organs, tendons, ligaments and other tissue make up the other 40%. Rather than wasting the inedible portions, these parts are used to make important by-products that we routinely use.
Through creative and inventive means, nearly everything from the horns to the hooves of cattle can be used to make important goods, many that we use daily. The vast list of by-products that utilize some part of the animal varies from vital things like medications to other products like make-up and perfume that are more of a luxury. Whether you realize it or not, it’s likely that your day is brought to you by cattle. A quick look will show you what more we can thank cattle for.
It’s widely known that cow hides are the basis of leather products. Products such as car seats, wallets, footballs, furniture, book bindings, boots, cases, saddles, jackets, belts, baseball gloves, and purses just to name a few . Leather is strong and durable, making it a smart choice for anything you want to last. The hide can also be used to produce sheetrock, gelatin, flavorings, gummy bears, marshmallows, adhesives and medicines. The hair on the hide is often used for various brushes, air filters, insulation and textiles.
Cattle fatty acids provide a myriad of uses, more than just as commonly thought of lubricants. Fat from cattle is used in creating fabric softener, chalk, cement, antifreeze and rubber. Many hygiene and beauty products use cattle fat such as make-up, shaving cream, deodorant, mouthwash, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion and cosmetics. Cattle fat by-products make a big bang, even in your Independence Day celebrations as they help make up explosives, fireworks and matches.
Bones, hooves and horns are used for medical necessities such as adhesive bandages, syringes, gelatin capsules and even as surgical collagen and bone grafts. Common items such as buttons, emery boards, ball bearings, crochet needles, dice, and photographic film are made with bone, hoof or horn. Other surprising products include cellophane tape and wrap, phonograph records and wall paper paste are made from those cattle parts as well.
The list of by-products is lengthy, but it helps us recognize the many
The Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition P.O. Box 331 Soda Springs, Idaho 83276 (U.S.P.S. -- 090-560) ISSN: 2997-1004
The Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition is published weekly at 76 South Main Street, Ste. 207, Soda Springs, Idaho. Postmaster, please mail address corrections to:
The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 331, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276.
Entered as “periodicals” at the Soda Springs, Idaho Post Office. Subscription rates are strictly in advance -- $55.00 per year delivered in Caribou County, and $67.00 per year delivered outside of Caribou County within the United States.
The Idaho Enterprise reserves the right to refuse publication of any or all materials.
Brandon Hall Editor brandon.h@thecityjournals.com
Bryan Dean Scott Publisher bryan.s@thecityjournals.com
Legislative Weekly Update; Senator Mark Harris, LD35 — Week #3,
ending Jan 24, 2025
Legislation is starting to move through the committees this week. Tax bills usually begin in the House of Representatives per the Idaho Constitution. As a result, some significant tax bills have been introduced this week in the House Revenue & Taxation Committee. There is a proposal to lower the individual and corporate tax rate to 5.3%. There is also a proposal to exempt pensions for working military retirees from State income taxes. It is early in the Session and there may likely be tweaks to these pieces of legislation before we see final drafts.
The other big issues this week are two different bills relating to school choice. House Bill 39 (H39) provides a tax credit of up to $5,000 per qualifying child who moves from a public school to a private school. Another provision of the bill allows $7,500 for special needs students. The program would be administered by the Idaho State Tax Commission who would have the authority to perform audits. The Commission would also be required to report annually to the Legislature, and a priority would be placed on low-income families.
Senate Bill 1025 (S1025) was introduced this week as another school choice bill. This bill’s funding works off the existing Empowering Parents Program. This Legislation would require that participating private schools be vetted by the State Board of Education. It would also prioritize low-income families by providing up to $5,000 per student, with a $15,000 cap for families. It further sets sideboards for participating schools. The schools must be accredited, the teachers must be certified, and the students would be tested.
There are many concerns with both these pieces of legislation, and I expect there will be many changes made before any of them are considered by either the Senate or the House. There is a possibility there may not be an agreement on either of these bills.
benefits we have from cattle aside from the nutrition they provide. While beefy entrees are the more glamorous product of cattle, all products play a key role in daily living. Cattle, the ranchers that raise them and those that help us make the most of them deserve our thanks and support.
A (mostly) complete list of by-products:
Bone, Horns, Hooves: Adhesives, Plastics, Pet food, Plant food, Photographic film, Shampoo, Lamination, Wallpaper and wallpaper glue, Plywood, Refined Sugar, Charcoal, Fertilizer, Glass, Buttons, Dice, Combs, Piano keys, toothbrushes
Hide: Gelatin, Flavorings, Sheetrock, Air filters, Paint brushes, Felt, Clothing, Accessories, Shoes, Sports equipment, Plaster, Adhesives, Medicines,
Time will tell as the Session progresses and we will most likely see more proposals and alternatives as we work through this issue.
This week we had an opportunity to visit with many of our city officials as they came to Boise to hold meetings. It is always good to visit with our mayors and city council members, hear their concerns, and work through their issues. They all work hard on the behalf of our citizens regarding a variety of issues that include water, airports, state highways, and more.
I am excited to announce that a new, improved version of an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) bill has been drafted for legislative consideration. We have worked on this draft for well over a year now and many of us have gotten to the point where we agree on this latest version. It is way overdue that our EMS personnel and volunteers are recognized as a critical part of our first responders’ program. As many of you know, this issue is very important to me. I will have more information in the following weeks. It continues to be a privilege and an honor to serve the good people of Legislative District 35. I look forward to hearing from you with any questions or concerns. You can email me at mharris@senate.idaho.gov.
Candies, Leather
Blood: Imitation eggs, Cake mixes, Adhesives, Minerals, Medicines, Laboratory materials
Internal Organs:
Musical instrument strings, Tennis racket strings, Fishing line, Insulin, Medical sutures/stitches, Sausage casings, Hormones, Enzymes, Vitamins
Fat: Chewing gum, Candles, Detergents, Fabric softener, Deodorant, Shaving cream, Perfume, Cosmetics, Lotions, Crayons, Paint, Lubricants, Biodiesel, Plastics, Waterproofing, Cement, Ceramics, Chalk, Explosives, Fireworks, Matches, Fertilizer, Pesticides, Plastics, Tires, Toothpaste, Antifreeze, Insulation, Linoleum, Rubber, Textiles, Medicines
additional photos $25 each To submit an obituary: email: sherrie.w@thecityjournals.com Mail or drop o at the The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 205, Malad Idaho 83252 100 E. 90 S., Malad, Idaho 208-766-4773
Shelly Williams Advertising shelly.w@thecityjournals.com
Phone: 208-766-4773 www.cariboucountynews.com
LaMont Walter Archibald
SPORTS
BY JODY REEVES
A bit of a slow start for the Lady Cardinals in their only game last week saw them in a tight battle during the first quarter of play. Soda Springs were on the road at Declo to take on the Hornets. Having beaten the Hornets by nearly twenty at home the Lady Cardinals may have overlooked Declo a little at the start of this game. The Cardinals put on a full court press to start the game off. The Hornets seemed to be prepared for this and managed to break the press several times leading to easy buckets. On the flip side the Cardinals were able to move the ball with relative ease on offense but the larger Hornet defenders left very few openings to get good shots off. Declos was able to edge out to a small lead for much of the quarter. The Cardinals
stayed persistent with their press and were eventually able to make a push to finish the quarter with the score being even.
In the second quarter the Soda Springs press really began to pay off and the Cardinals started off on a ten point run. With the Cardinals picking up the pace of the game the Hornets began to get behind defensively, sending Soda to the foul line several times. Despite the free shots and the early advantage the Cardinals finished the last two minutes of the half getting outscored six to three. Soda Springs still held the lead by seven but a poor performance from the charity stripe where the Cardinals were just eight for nineteen in the half kept the game closer than it should have been.
In the third quarter the Cardinals finally opened the game up due in
large part to their defense. Creating several turnovers with hustle plays the Cardinals held the Hornets to just two points in the quarter while adding thirteen to their own total.
In the fourth quarter the Cardinals biggest lead extended to eighteen points. The large cushion on the scoreboard was beneficial for Soda Springs as the Cardinals shooting got a little cold at the start. During the cold spell the Hornets made a run of their own and cut the lead to ten points at the midway point of the quarter. Lucky for Soda Springs the shooting heated back up for two of their players. Goodin and Moldenhauer would each finish the quarter with six points that included three three pointers. The Cardinals finished this game off with a fifteen point win. Abby Goodin led the way for the Cardinals scoring in every quarter of the game.
Despite the big win the Cardinals did finish the game with work to be done at the foul line. The second half did not see improvement in that aspect as Soda Springs went just three for nine finishing the game with just a thirty-nine percent from the foul line. The end of the regular season is quickly approaching for the Lady Cardinals. Wednesday they will face Malad who sit in first place in the conference and the state. Malad is also the only district opponent to beat the Cardinals this season. After the trip to Malad on Wednesday Soda Springs will host Aberdeen for senior night on Friday.
Cardinals Earn Two Big Wins
BY JODY REEVES
Last week the Soda Springs Cardinals took on two district opponents. Every district win will help the Cardinals earn a higher seed come tournament time. So far this season Declo has established themselves as the top team in the conference. Most people considered West Side to be the presumptive number two. After those two the conference looked to be a tight race for third between Soda Springs, Malad, and Wendell with Aberdeen bringing up the rear. Well Aberdeen went and upset Malad throwing their hat into the ring. That is why each of last week’s games were so important for the Cardinals.
For their first game of the week the Cardinals hosted Malad. Malad is a team that can be streaky and can cause problems for a lot of teams if they get hot from outside. As the game got started it wasn’t the Dragons that got hot from outside it was the Cardinal’s Cooper Thompson that caught fire. Thompson hit four three point shots in the first and helped the Cardinals finish five points ahead at the end of the quarter. Thompson and almost all of the Cardinals cooled off in the second quarter. Soda Springs struggled to get any shots to fall and by halfway through the quarter Malad had tied the game. The rough quarter was salvaged by seven points from Gavin Hansen and the Cardinals headed to the halftime break with just a one point lead. In the third quarter Soda Springs got rolling again. Thompson added two more threes and Kirby added eight points of his own. The good shooting from that pair extended the Soda Springs lead to six going into the fourth quarter. Nearly six minutes into the last quarter of the game each team had struggled to score. To that point the Cardinals had only outscored the Dragons four to two in the period. The last two minutes of the game really tightened up. Following several timeouts by each team Malad had worked their way back to within four points with just over thirty seconds left. Malad was forced to start fouling but ran out of time. The Cardinals dodged a bullet winning the game by five while watching Malad go just three for ten from the foul line. Up next for the Cardinals was West
Side. The Pirates had beaten the Cardinals earlier in the month by thirteen points in Dayton. Last week’s game was at the Bird Nest in Soda Springs. This game would remain close throughout but would not be one that either team will want to emulate again. In the first made baskets were outnumbered by fouls and missed shots. The two teams struggled to get into any offensive flow and the quarter ended with the score even at just nine points. During the second period the Cardinals appeared to be pulling away as they pulled out to a seven point lead. However the offensive struggles continued for the teams and the Pirates pulled back to within three to finish the first half. The third quarter of the game was pretty much more of the same. Several missed shots on both sides and Soda Springs continued to hold a small lead ending the quarter up by four. For much of the fourth quarter the lead hovered between one and four points. Each team burned through their timeouts trying to gain an advantage. Foul shooting would be key in the end. Soda Springs made more of theirs. Gavin Hansen also came up with a pair of crucial steals at the end of the game preventing the Pirates from being able to score. The game may have been ugly but the Cardinals walked away with the win.
The Cardinals face a busy week this week. They played Grace on Tuesday at home in what was surely an intense battle for county bragging rights. That game had not yet been played at the writing of this article. The rest of the week the Cardinals will hit the road first traveling to Aberdeen on Thursday. Like Malad the Tigers can be dangerous if they get going from the outside but the Cardinals should have the advantage inside. Soda Springs finishes the week at Declo to take on a very tough Hornet team on Saturday.
Cardinals 16 7 18 8 49
Dragons 11 11 13 9 44
K.Kirby 8, C.Jacobson 2, C.Thompson 20, G.Hansen 15, K.McWilliams 4
Cardinals 9 12 12 11 44
Pirates 9 9 11 9 38
K.Kirby 6, C.Thompson 16, G.Hansen 11, C.McWilliams 11
Cowboys Split The Week
BY JODY REEVES
Last week the North Gem Cowboys played two conference opponents with different results. The Cowboys have slipped towards the bottom of the conference so every game is important with district seeding on the line.
The Cowboys first opponent last week was Taylor’s Crossing. In their first match up this season the Cowboys and Eagles had an epic battle that ended with the Cowboys eeking out the win in overtime 64-61. That game was in Bancroft on the Cowboys home court but this time North Gem traveled to Idaho Falls for the contest. Ryver Haden has been the teams leading scorer this season and he got the Cowboys started in this one scoring the first two baskets. Haden’s proficiency this season has not gone unnoticed resulting in teams keying on him. As a result other members of the Cowboy’s team have needed to step up at times to help add points to the board. In this game it was Parker Hill who added six points in the first to help North Gem earn a first quarter
lead. In the second period the Cowboys struggled from the foul line going just one for seven and only added five total points. As a result the Cowboys lead was all but lost ending the first half with just one point separating the teams. In the third both teams found it difficult to score from the field. The Cowboys only made a pair of shots to the Eagles three and the third quarter ended with the game still a one point affair but now with the Cowboys trailing. The game was shaping up to be a repeat of the early season match up until the fourth quarter rolled around. Hill added five more points to his total while Haden and Yost each added a basket. Unfortunately the Cowboys got a little handsy sending the Eagles to the foul line where they made nearly every free throw. All the foul shots combined with a trio of three point shots helped the Eagles pull away from the Cowboys in the final quarter. That loss sent the Cowboys down in the conference rankings. After the tough loss the Cowboys next faced Clark County on the road in DuBois. The Bobcats are sitting
right at the bottom of the conference and the Cowboys had already easily beat them earlier this month. That knowledge helped boost the Cowboys confidence going into this game. After struggling to get good looks at the basket against the Eagles Haden exploded in the first quarter of this game matching his previous game scoring total in just one quarter. The rest of the Cowboys helped lock down the Bobcats offense holding Clark County to just five first quarter points. In the second period Craig Yost and Rusty Hatch got in on the action combining for fourteen points in the period. The Cowboy defense did give up several outside shots allowing the Bobcats to stay somewhat in the game at the half. Starting the third quarter the Cowboys held an eleven point lead. The Cowboys offense continued to roll in the third while their defense made some improvements and the lead grew to a comfortable nineteen points. In the fourth quarter North Gem continued to coast and easily picked up the victory over the Bobcats.
The Cowboys have a busy week this
week. First they hosted one of the top teams in the conference Watersprings Christian on Tuesday. That game had not yet taken place at the time of the writing of this article. After the tough Tuesday match up the Cowboys hit the road first traveling to American Heritage on Thursday then Richfield on Saturday.
Cowboys 13 5 7 9 34
Eagles 8 9 9 21 47
P.Hill 11, R.Hatch 10, C.Yost 3, R. Haden 10
Cowboys 11 18 17 12 58
Bobcats 5 13 8 9 35
P.Hill 1, R.Hatch 20, C.Yost 17, R.Haden 18, W.Wakley 2
Unfortunately I was unable to get any information on the Lady Cowboys game against the Lady Eagles last Thursday. Listed below is the final score without the box or individual scoring.
Lady Cowboys 28 Lady Eagles 34
Cowboy Wrestlers See Success Up North
BY JODY REEVES
This past weekend what I am dubbing the Four Horsemen wrestlers from North Gem made the long journey to Kooskia to take part in the North/ South Duals at Clearwater Valley High School. The Four Horsemen consist of Luke Rindlisbaker, brothers Lukky and Jaxyn Welker as well as Haydn Frandsen. While they are joined by teammate Craig Yost on occasion the
four wrestlers listed above have been consistent all season long. In last weekend’s duals the Four Horsemen obviously could not form a full team so in each dual they were joined by renegade wrestlers from other schools to fill in the Cowboys missing weights. Because of the renegade wrestlers I do not put a lot of weight into the team scoring for North Gem. However in each of those duals the true blue Cowboys aka Four Horsemen competed very
well. In the duals North Gem faced Priest River, Lakeside, Grangeville, Potlatch, South Renegade, Clearwater Valley, Lapwai, St. Maries, and Salmon. With that list of schools each wrestler got plenty of matches. Some of the wrestlers still had some forfeit wins but there was plenty of action. Luke, Lukky, and Haydn all gathered several wins to go with a few losses. Jaxyn is wrestling for the first time this season and has faced several challenges wres-
tling in a tough weight class and being young and inexperienced. Despite all of this Jaxyn was even able to pick up a win. All in all the weekend was considered a successful one for the Cowboys and will benefit them moving forward in the season. Below is each wrestler’s record from the weekend.
Konner McWilliams lays the ball in for two of his points in the win over West Side last week.
Lady Grizzlies End Long Drought
BY JODY REEVES
Last week the Lady Grizzlies faced two very tough 2A teams. Depending on which poll you look at, both Butte County and Raft River are ranked in the top five 2A teams in the state. Meanwhile the Lady Grizzlies have struggled to pick up wins as of late. In fact prior to last week the last win for Grace came back on January 3rd at Murtaugh. Granted that stretch of games included two 4A schools and the number one 2A team in the state.
The Lady Grizzlies started their week by traveling to district rival Butte County. The Lady Pirates are a fairly young team with lots of talent. Most pundits have picked the Pirates to win the district championship and do very well at the state tournament. However these rivalry games are always much more competitive than many expect them to be. That was the case in last week’s matchup. Grace being on the road and considered the underdogs in this game came out aggressive quickly grabbing a small four point lead. As the quarter continued the two teams battled very evenly and when the quarter came to a close the Lady Grizzlies were clinging
to a small two point lead. That small lead would not last long. The Pirates started the second quarter on a ten to three run earning them a five point lead. The Grizzlies were able to fight back and briefly tie the game up near the midway point of the quarter but by the halftime break Grace had fallen behind by eight points. Out of the break the Lady Grizzlies had difficulty scoring any points and the Pirate lead continued to build, getting as high as seventeen. Grace did finally put a string of positive offensive possessions together getting back to within ten points by the end of the quarter. The fourth quarter was a very sloppy affair. On several occasions loose balls sent girls diving to the floor resulting in jump balls with very little scoring going on. Despite all of this the Lady Grizzlies had clawed back to within five points with just one minute left in the game. That would be as close as Grace would get. Some late fouls sent the Pirates to the foul line but what really hurt Grace was giving up a couple of rebounds in those situations. The Grizzlies lost the game by eight extending their January slump. Next up for the Lady Grizzlies was a
home game against a very scrappy three loss Raft River team. The Lady Trojans have been hovering right around that number five state ranking all season long. The Lady Grizzlies hungry for a win took this challenging game head on. The game got started with the teams trading baskets in a back and forth affair. Both teams were quick up and down the court with a lot of quick shots. When the quarter ended the Grizzlies had snuck out to a three point lead. The second period of play began with the Trojans going on an eight point run and taking over the lead. With just about one minute left in the half the Grizzlies put in four points in back to back possessions and regained the lead. As the two teams went to the halftime break they were separated by a single point. In the third quarter both teams had their fair share of mistakes as the play got a little sloppy. Grace was able to hold their advantage and even add three points to the lead. This game was anything but over however as they headed to the fourth. The Lady Grizzlies opened up the fourth quarter by going on a run that included a big three point shot by Tessica Jorgensen forcing a Raft River timeout. Out of the timeout the
A Season Low For The Grizzlies
BY JODY REEVES
At the midseason mark the Grace Grizzlies reeled off three consecutive wins against larger schools and appeared to be ready to go on a roll. The loss of one of their top players and the coaches shaking up the personnel lineup has sent the Grizzlies into a tailspin. Since that three game win streak the Grizzlies have gone an abysmal one and four. The one win came against a midrange 2A team that was a closer game than it should have been. Only one of the four losses was somewhat close and that was a five point loss to Soda Springs. Two of the more significant losses came in last week’s games against West Side and American Falls.
On Wednesday the Grizzlies traveled to Dayton to take on the Pirates. This game was a rematch of the season opener for Grace where the Grizzlies suffered a four point loss at home. In last week’s game the Grizzlies hung tough with the Pirates through the first quarter of play. Led by Braden Kimball’s six points the Grizzlies trailed by just one point after the first period of play. The Grizzlies would
not get that close again. In the second period Grace would only muster six points total and the Pirates racked up thirteen. Coming out of the half the Grizzlies were reenergized. Grace was perfect from the line in the quarter and earned baskets from five different players. Unfortunately where the Grizzlies struggled was on defense, particularly perimeter defense. This is an area that Grace has struggled in all year. The Pirates were able to hit three triples and outpace the Grizzlies in the quarter extending the lead. Now trailing by double digits the Grizzlies entered the fourth needing to make up some ground. As perfect as they were from the charity stripe in the third they were almost as bad from that spot in the fourth. Going just three for eight from the line and missing several three point shots Grace was unable to mount a comeback losing the game by eleven.
The Grizzlies second game of the week was a home game against American Falls. The Beavers have had a very successful season making several appearances in the top five 4A rankings. Grace was a heavy underdog in the game and it did not take long to
see why. Perimeter defense was once again a problem for the Grizzlies as they gave up nineteen points in the quarter. Fortunately for Grace they were sent to the line several times by the Beavers and capitalized on several of those trips keeping the game within striking distance. In the second period the Grizzlies did not fare as well. They did still manage to score in the double digits but fell further behind. The Grizzlies entered the halftime break already losing by thirteen points. The Grizzlies were able to limit the Beavers scoring compared to the two previous quarters but Grace also struggled to score. By the end of the period American Falls held a substantial twenty point lead. In the fourth quarter the Grizzlies hit a low point in their season when the Beavers extended the lead to thirty points qualifying for the running clock mercy rule. The Beavers finally called off the dogs and Grace put in some late shots but still lost the game by twenty six points.
The Grizzlies face a brutal week this week. They faced off with a hot Soda Springs team on Tuesday. That game had not yet been played at the writing
Trojans responded by cutting the lead to four points and putting on a tough press. After trading a couple of baskets the Trojans did get as close as three points with under a minute to play. With the clock running Raft River was forced to foul and hope the Grizzlies would miss from the line. The Lady Grizzlies made enough of those shots to hang on for the win and thus ending their nearly month long losing streak. The Lady Grizzlies have a busy week this week as they finish off the regular season. They finish with three home games starting with West Side on Wednesday, followed by Butte County on Thursday and wrap up the season taking on Cokeville Wyoming on Saturday.
Grizzlies 10 10 13 7 40 Pirates 8 20 15 5 48
K.Stoddard 10, K.Mansfield 10, L.Gilbert 1, P.Steadman 4, C.Yost 9, T.Jorgensen 6
Grizzlies 15 7 9 11 42 Trojans 12 9 6 11 38
K.Stoddard 16, K.Christensen 6, K.Mansfield 5, L.Gilbert 2, P.Steadman 2, T.Jorgensen 11
of this article. The cross county rivalry game always brings lots of intensity and a large crowd. Next the Grizzlies host another big rival Butte County on Thursday. That game will be critical in determining the top seed for the district tournament. Grace wraps up the week with Cokeville Wyoming on Saturday. The Panthers always give the Grizzlies a tough game. With just a few games left in the season the Grizzlies need to go back to the drawing board to see if they can come up with a strategy to salvage a disappointing season. The Grizzlies ticket to state goes through Butte County so Thursday night’s game will be telling.
Grizzlies 13 6 16 10 45 Pirates 14 13 20 9 56
D.Hill 1, J.Smith 2, B.Kimball 14, C.Andersen 6, C.Smith 7, C.Reeves 7, P.Yost 7,
Chase Smith lines up his foul shot in last week's game in Dayton.
Tess Jorgensen looks to move the ball in Saturday's win over Raft River.
Parker Yost works to box out his opponent during the Grizzlies loss against West Side.
Kamryn Mansfield absorbs the contact as she get fouled in last weeks game against the Trojans.