The Idaho Enterprise/Caribou County | February 16, 2024

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Caribou County, Idaho

February 15, 2024 | Vol. 1 No. 2

Reagan Yamauchi returns to thank the County for its support CARIBOU COUNTY – Reigning Miss Idaho and recent Miss America contestant Reagan Yamauchi spent Monday morning visiting with the Caribou County Commissioners. She took the opportunity to thank them for their financial support of her Miss America campaign, and to report on the experience of the event and her time in the national spotlight. Yamauchi had 175 appearances from the time she was crowned Miss Idaho until the Miss America contest began, and she has returned right back to her hectic schedule at the completion of Miss America. She still has another five months to go as Miss Idaho, which is a role that she has come to love. It has been “yes, a lot of work,” Yamauchi admits. As the experience unfolded, she found people in the community and eventually the state and country, very willing to help. “People started to open their doors to help me out,” she said. People “donated places to practice my talents, help design my clothes, and so many oth-

Reigning Miss Idaho Reagan Yamauchi visited the County Commissioners to express her thanks for the Commission's support.

er things.” As she moved forward toward the national level competition, she approached the County Commissioners about fuding to represent Caribou County to the nation. She threw out

a number to the county for what she thought it might cost. Piano combined with a basketball routine was something that had never been done before, so she did have to pay to recut the

music. After finding out that the process itself would cost $1000 for a 40 second clip, she realized that funding was going to be critical to put her in a position to compete effectively. “And so,” she said to the County Commissioners during open session, “your donation came in and changed my year, and I’m thankful for that. Thank you,” she continued with clear emotion in her voice, “for trusting and believing in me.” As she heads into the latter half of her term as Miss Idaho, Yamauchi is on track to visit all 44 counties, and will have done so after a trip to Northern Idaho planned for the upcoming weeks. She has enjoyed touring the state and seeing all the variety it has, but expressed her joy at returning home. “Caribou County offered so many stories that I’d never heard that inspired me, and they’re all around us. I will always be grateful to be from this county, and tell people I’m from this county. I love it.” REAGAN YAMAUCHI On Page 3

Soda Springs Receives $1.5 Million Grant for Main Street Project

SODA SPRINGS – The City of Soda Springs has been selected by the Idaho Transportation Department to receive a $1.5 million grant from the State of Idaho for their Main Street Project. Mayor Austin Robinson signed a Letter of Acceptance for the grant during last week’s City Council Meeting. The grant was established by the Idaho Governor to help cities with state highways running through them to offset asphalt costs. The grant will cover replacement of pavement, sidewalks, and gutters on the city’s Main Street, from the Highway 30 intersec-

tion, by US Bank, north to the railroad tracks. The city also budgeted an additional $600,000 in their 2023-2024 Budget for the project. The plan is to replace and upgrade existing water and sewer lines that have not been replaced since the 1950’s. City Engineer and grant writer, Alan Skinner, says “It’s a good opportunity to replace infrastructure that is 70 years old”. The city is also investigating other options to upgrade storm drains, add lighting and possibly put permanent flower boxes along Main street to update the area for local businesses and

Soda Springs mayor Austin Robinson signs a Letter of Acceptance for a grant to improve Main Street.

customers. The total cost of the project is expected to exceed $2 million. The project will be put up for

contractor bid in March and is planned to be completed later this summer.

Renovations made to Library; freeze drier available to public The Friends of the Library, which is a 501 3 (c) fundraising group that supports the library but is separate from the library’s operations, raised funds for remodeling the downstairs kitchen area of the Soda Springs library. Carlie Clark, Jessica Ineck and Erica Goode are members of the board, who, along with Dorajo Messerly helped get the project moving. The Friends of the Library supports such events as the Festival of Trees and

the Summer Book sale. “I never thought before I left that this would become a reality. I never thought we’d have an addition, never thought we’d have an actual kitchen.” Last week, the sink was installed, and the room was LIBRARY On Page 3

Library Director Cindy Erickson shows off the library’s new freezer drier

INSIDE Legislative Updates..............................Pg.2 Looking Back......................................................Pg.7 Superbowl Watch Party........................Pg.3 Obituaries.................................................................Pg.9 Grace City Council Report...................Pg.5 Sports................................................................Pg.10-12

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NEWS IN BRIEF Trump appeals immunity decision to Supreme Court

The appeal follows a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals that presidents are not “above the law” during their presidencies, nor immune from prosecution after serving. The central claim of the appeal is that it is unfair to voters to prevent Trump from getting his re-election message out due to the amount of time and effort being spent on his defense against charges of involvement in attempting to hinder the election process on January 6, 2021, as well as the other federal indictments currently filed against him. The next steps taken by the Supreme Court will likely determine whether the insurrection case goes to trial before the 2024 election or not.

Nor’Easter blankets east coast

A winter storm system currently covering the east coast of the United States has dumped over a foot of snow in many locations up and down the eastern seaboard, and specifically in the northeastern states. As of Tuesday, more than 250 car accidents were reported in New Jersey alone, with the state moving in around 2,500 pieces of heavy equipment from the transportation department to deal with traffic and structure problems. The Carolinas, New England, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia have all been heavily affected, in addition to New York and New Jersey.

Idaho Senate bill seeks to limit remote work

Senate Bill 1261, sponsored by Jim Guthrie (R-Inkom), would restrict the number of state employees who are authorized to work remotely. The bill’s statement of purpose explains that “in-office employees with job responsibilities that require direct contact with the public are not eligible for telework.” Those with day-to-day responsibilities outside the office would be exempt from the legislation upon approval. According to Guthrie, the point of the bill is “to make sure [employees] are available for work and not distracted by other things.” The COVID-19 pandemic created massive changes to the telework environment, and saw the largest number of employees in history work remotely. As the pandemic concerns have receded, many businesses are revising their workfrom-home policies, and Guthrie would like to see the state follow suit. The bill would limit the state’s remote workforce to 15%.

Helicopter crash injures two Guard members in Utah

A Utah National Guard Apache helicopter crashed during routine training exercises on Monday, sending an instructor and an Air Force pilot to the hospital with serious injuries. The flight was designed to train the pilot on the particular vehicle, and there was no word yet on what led to the crash though an investigation is ongoing.

Kansas City repeats as Superbowl Champions

In the literal last seconds of Sunday’s overtime Superbowl game, the Kansas City Chiefs managed to score and once again take the trophy from right underneath the San Francisco 49ers. The Chiefs are the first team to repeat as Superbowl Champs since the New England Patriots accomplished the feat in 2004 and 2005. As a result of the involvement of Taylor Swift (among other things), this year’s Superbowl was heavily hyped, and even inspired a conspiracy theory of collusion among some fans.

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Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

February 15, 2024

Sen. Harris — Week 5 Legislative Update (2-9-2024) CARIBOU COUNTY – We had a hearing in the Senate Resources and Environment Committee on my Senate Bill 1245 (S1245). This is a bill regarding pesticide labeling that is regulated by state and federal laws under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). It clarifies that existing regulations of pesticide labels are sufficient to satisfy any requirements for a warning. The purpose is to stop frivolous lawsuits and outlandish jury awards that cripple companies that make these products. These are products that our farmers and ranchers depend on to grow crops and control weeds. These are also products that are made in our area of the State, create well-paying jobs, contribute to our economy, and help provide a secure food source for our nation. If we cannot create these products here in the United States, we will be forced to buy them from other nations where we have no regulatory control. Meaning, we will not really know the quality of their products. S1245 does not prohibit anyone

District 35 Senator Mark Harris

from suing a manufacture over product defects or a company that fraudulently conceals safety information. Instead, it applies specifically to the health and safety warning labels that have been approved through an extensive 8-to-12-year process that

Week #5 Legislative Update – Josh Wheeler, District 35 CARIBOU COUNTY – It was a great start to the week for me, when House Bill 433 passed off the floor of the house. It’s a great signal that Idaho is ready to see improved emphasis on skills, apprenticeships, certifications, and other relevant training. Now it will head to the senate. Senate Bill 1245, crafted to protect access to pesticides that are critical to our agricultural industry throughout the state, passed out of committee and should be heard on the Senate floor next week. I’m thankful to Senator Harris for taking the lead on this legislation. There were some historic happenings in the legislature this week. As a body, we debated House bill 457 at some length. It was the budget for the judicial branch this coming fiscal year. It was also the first budget of a new style of budgets that the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee produced this year. The budgets are intended to contain only bare bones items that would be needed for basic, ongoing operations. I have some concerns that we have moved too far toward an omnibus style budgeting like what they do in DC. I expressed these thoughts on the floor. The budgets are passing, so we will get to see how well they do work.

District 35 Representative Josh Wheeler

We also saw, for the first time in Idaho history, the removal of a Majority Leader from their position. I was in favor of maintaining our current leadership, to get us through the remainder of the session. So, I was disappointed to see this change. But we do have a statehouse full of competent, hard-working legislators and I am confident we will persevere and finish the good work for the people this session.

Reagan Yamauchi returns to thank the County for its support

continued from page 1

In her capacity as reigning Miss Idaho, Yamauchi would like to make people aware that she is available for community event, including business meetings, parties, birthdays. The board asked her a few questions about the experience. Doug Wood asked her if she had made friends in the course of the event. Yamauchi responded that, “Yes! I made so many. In fact, I roomed with Miss Hawaii, and I had the opportunity to spend a religious mission there, so we got along really well.” Commissioner Sorensen asked “How did Miss Colorado [ultimately named Miss America] do all that?” Air force second lieutenant Madison Marsh had spent a busy season on active duty and camapaigning for the title. “we all had different strengths. I was leading the pack at going out to the community. She wasn’t able to do as much of that.” Attorney Wood commented that “We’re super proud of you” and the commissioners agreed. Commissioner Somsen also stated, “Thank you—nobody ever does that. Comes back to tell us thanks. We appreciate it.” Chairman Mitchel asked her “What was your favorite competition?” Yamauchi answered that “Talent was really different. There were 102 of us that are competing. When I told people what I was doing, they couldn’t figure it out. All the state title holders C Y

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came out because they wanted to see how I did it. But I really liked the interview portion. They asked me a lot of questions about the state of Idaho… The interview was only about eight minutes in front of four judges and a videographer.” By luck of the draw, Yamauchi had ended up as the first interview.” “So you won the lottery?” Attorney Wood asked. “Actually, I got last,” Yamauchi laughed. “They started picking numbers, leaving first for last.” That put Reagan in a position to set the bar for the interview portion, but she feels she did very well. “It was hard to score hard in the first position,” she said. “But there was nothing else that I wanted to share or say, so I felt good about it.” Having put about 13,000 miles on her vehicle to this point, Yamauchi plans to keep going. “I’m supposed to be in Boise doing some things, and at the Simplot games.” She is still surprised when people recognize her around. “I don’t usually have my crown and sash on at the grocery store, and people will come up to me and say…’I assume you’re Miss Idaho, can I get a picture?” In her capacity as reigning Miss Idaho, Yamauchi would like to make people aware that she is available for community events, including business meetings, parties, birthdays, assemblies, public speaking, and other activities. She can be contacted at bookmissidaho@gmail.com for arrangements.

warns of on-known potential harm caused by a pesticide product. S1245 was approved by the Committee and sent to the Senate floor with a due pass recommendation. Another bill that I am sponsoring, Senate Bill 1243 (S1243) which was also approved by the Senate Resources and Environment Committee and sent to the Senate floor this week. S1243 protects those that possess a federal grazing permit, in the event of a federal and state land exchange. Federal grazing permits are what is called a preference right or a property right. During a land exchange, that property right is lost, and the permittee is subject to a bidding process to lease the grazing rights. S1243 lets the grazing leaseholder apply to the Idaho Department of Lands to convert a grazing lease into a grazing permit, and if they remain good stewards, they can keep the permit. This is a process that will only happen very rarely. The last time a land swap happened was in 2020 and before that I cannot find anyone that remembers

when the last time this happened. In 2020, a land exchange happened in Owyhee County and some of the ranchers there lost their grazing permits and were never compensated. House Bill 406 (H406) has passed the House, went to the Senate Judiciary and Rules Committee, and is now on the Senate floor. H406 deals with mandatory minimum sentencing for illegal possession of fentanyl. We have been hearing a lot about fentanyl lately as it is a very dangerous drug that is killing many of our citizens. Much of it is being brought in across the Mexican border and being mixed with other illicit drugs. It is a problem and H406 will add fentanyl possession to the list of other drugs being trafficked in Idaho that requires mandatory sentencing. I am a co-sponsor of this legislation. It has been another busy week in the Legislature. As always, I like to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me at: mharris@senate.idaho.gov. I will do my best to get you answers!!

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Chairwoman Moon: Please Pick A Side Historians will recall, in the distant past, maybe as far back as 2021, when the positions and priorities of the Idaho Republican Party were predictable. This consistency was even labeled by outside pundits: “Idaho’s pragmatic but principled conservatism.” To demonstrate what has changed consider the dilemma of the gay libertarian newlyweds. At the height of a pandemic, they boldly walk maskless into an artisan bakery and demand a wedding cake. Can the baker be forced to do business with them? If you ask current GOP chair Dorothy Moon (and the small clique surrounding her) the answer is: “Depends on whether they’re asking as gays, or as maskless.” Moon’s party supports a public accommodation doctrine requiring businesses to serve masked and unmasked. Threats of cancellation from the baker’s insurer are not the party’s concern. But a same-sex wedding cake asks the baker to be creative against his religious conviction. So, we just have to find a Supreme Court nominee who backs a public accommodation doctrine overriding safety practices and prudent business decisions, but not religious beliefs. Good luck with that. Looking through the platforms, resolutions, press releases, and public announcements of Chairwoman Moon, don’t expect intellectual consistency. The party of “the Rule of Law” now has multiple passages of its own rules found to be “inconsistent with state law.” Consider the party’s objection to the pending “Open Primaries” initiative. If it qualifies for Idaho’s ballot this Fall, Idaho could have a “party-less” blanket primary like what Washington State won from the Supreme Court in 2008. In that ruling, the high court okayed cutting “party organizations” out of state-run primaries. But Justice Scalia wrote the conservative’s passionate dissent. “A party’s defining act is the selection of a candidate and advocacy of that candidate’s election by conferring upon him the party’s endorsement,” he argued. “Republican” means nothing if it doesn’t connotate the person around whom a party has rallied, whose policies become the “promise” upon which the general election campaign is based. This line of reasoning was never directly refuted by the court’s ma-

jority. And time has proven Scalia right. Does anyone think the Republican platform can spell out a Ukraine policy binding on Donald Trump? No. That isn’t happening. Scalia was correct declaring “who is nominated” speaks louder than any platform, press release, or public statement of Party officers. As opponents of “Open Primaries,” you would expect the Idaho GOP to back Scalia. You’d be wrong. Most of the “Moon team” sides with the court’s majority, believing candidates should be marionettes on strings controlled by “platform enforcement tribunals.” The 2008 liberal majority shared Moon’s assertion that parties are strictly private organizations. Party insiders list their interests (in platforms, resolutions, etc.) and give candidates a checklist, just like any special interest group or Chamber of Commerce. The state is under no obligation to list every organization whose questionnaire a candidate answered. Chambers of Commerce don’t get their name, or endorsement, printed on the ballot. “Open Primaries” was found constitutional only because the liberal majority viewed political parties as “just another lobby,” non-essential to the electoral process. Scalia-led conservatives dissented, asserting parties were where voters coalesce around ideas, best defined by whom they nominate. The first GOP platform was abolitionist, but the nomination of John C. Fremont didn’t cause the South to secede. It was not the anti-slavery platform of 1860 that triggered the Civil War. It was the election of an anti-slavery President. To the court’s liberals, parties are mere sticks, prodding elected officials into supporting their narrow interests, easily excluded from the ballot. To conservative justices, parties are how voters instill values into government, by pulling the rope that gets like-minded individuals into office. Voters deserve to know whose team is pulling for a candidate. Is the party a stick? Or a rope? It would be nice if Chairwoman Moon would pick a side.

Trent Clark of Soda Springs is President and CEO of Customalting Inc. and has served in the leadership of Idaho business, politics, workforce, and humanities education.

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February 15, 2024

Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

COMMUNITY NEWS

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War on Weeds—weeds are everybody’s problem THE ISSUE: Feathered mosquito fern Feathered mosquito fern (Azolla pinnata) is a small free-floating aquatic annual that is native to Africa and Asia. It invades stagnate areas in ponds, ditches, and rivers. As feathered mosquito fern reproduces it forms large dense mats that float on the water surface negatively impacting recreation and irrigation. Fine hairs that cover leaves enable this plant to float on the water surface. Leaves are very small (0.04 – 0.08 inches long), rounded and occur in overlapping pairs. When the plant is young it is bright green or grey green and as it matures it takes on a reddish hue especially at the base of the plant. It reproduces from spores and plant fragments. Up to 64 spores can be produced on the underside of fruiting structures. Spores and plant fragments can be transported by currents, wildlife, and recreational equipment. Under favorable conditions this plant can double in size in 3 days. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Options: • Prevention— Learn how to identify this plant and report sightings. Never dispose of aquarium contents in surface waters. Always clean recreational equipment before transporting. • Mechanical— Water surface can be raked to remove plant material. Be sure to compost plant material far

Justin Hatch, University of Idaho Extension Agriculture Educator in Caribou and Bear Lake Counties. 208-547-3205 JLHatch@uidaho.edu

Jessica Stott, Jason Smith, Sam Schaafsma, and Carl Schaefbauer sit through a closely fought Superbowl. Schaafsma is second cousins with 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. Photo courtesy of David Nicholls, dcnicholls.com, Bugwood.org

enough away from the body of water that plants/plant parts cannot be washed back into the water. • Chemical—Oxygen depletion is a concern whenever using a chemical to control weeds in a body of water. Always read and follow herbicide label directions. Justin Hatch, University of Idaho Extension Agriculture Educator in Caribou County. 208-547-3205 JLHatch@uidaho.edu

Come enjoy your friends and neighbors and enjoy some hot soup on Feb. 27th at the Soda Springs Presbyterian Church.

Community Soup Luncheon at the Soda Springs Presbyterian Church SODA SPRINGS – Come in from the cold and have a hot bowl of soup with friends on Tuesday Feb. 27th. The Presbyterian women are again making soups, breadsticks and desserts for this annual event. Many favorites plus a few new additions will round out our soup menu this year: beef cabbage, chicken taco, potato cheese, clam chowder, chili, chicken noodle, Thai chicken curry, and ham and bean. The lunch also includes cake with cherries and whipped top-

ping, water or coffee. Lunch will be served from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. and take-outs begin at 10:45. You may call ahead to place an order at 208547-3771. We look forward to seeing our friends and neighbors and sharing this meal with the community. There is no charge. Donations are always gladly accepted. The Presbyterian Church is located at 109 South First East just across from the northeast corner of City Park. Hope to see you Tuesday, February 27th!

Renovations made to Library; freeze drier available to public continued from page 1

coming into focus. “We’ll have room to put our freeze drier trays in here, and room for our microwave,” Library Director Cindy Erickson said. “And we have a real-life, adult sized refrigerator instead of that little one we used to have. We’re very close to being done, and we’re just delighted.” The freeze drier trays are in reference to the purchase of a large freeze drier the library was able to purchase through a grant from the Bayer Fund. The drier is free for the community to use, and according to Erickson, “it’s going almost all the time ever since we got it.” The freeze drier was installed around six months ago. “It is the best grant I have ever written. I can’t even count how many community members have benefitted from the use of this freeze drier.” “People get on a list, because C Y

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you can’t always tell how long something is going to take for someone else. The librarians will give the next person on the list a heads up about when their turn is coming up,” she explains. “But now that we will have a real refrigerator, if somebody brings their stuff they day before and it’s in the refrigerator waiting to go in, that’s going to be a game changer. It’s amazing!” “It’s been a great addition to the library, so it came in when we were ripping up for the remodel. At the time, we just set it on a bookcase and that’s why it’s such a mess in here. But it doesn’t matter—we’re accomplishing a lot of things.” When asked if she had tried drying anything herself, Erickson mentioned that “there are three of us here who have bought them for ourselves after using the one here.” Contact the library to schedule time with the drier, which can be used to freeze dry everything from complete soups to eggs, to jerky and beyond.

Superbowl viewing party just one of the many events at Enders Hotel SODA SPRINGS – Enders Hotel in Soda Springs has been operating under its current management for just over a year, and in that time has sought to invigorate the downtown area with a range of community events and a warm and friendly atmosphere. Over the last several weeks, Enders has held a viewing party for the Miss America contest featuring Soda Springs local Reagan Yamauchi, a Valentine’s Day craft night, and most recently a Superbowl watch party. Enders will be holding a Valentine’s dance and dinner on February 17. The watch party brought an assortment of people—both long time locals as well as contractors from Bayer—in to watch the spectacle. While the crowd was fairly evenly divided in their loyalties (with at least one Swifty and at least one anti-Swifty on the premises to even things out), it turns out there was some personal rooting interest. Bayer contractor Sam Schaafsma, who was there with co-workers Jessica Stott, Jason Smith, and Carl Schaefbauer, turns out to be 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy’s second cousin. “It’s on my mom’s side, from what I’ve heard,” Schaafsma said. As those who watched the game can attest, regardless of rooting interest it was a nerve-wracking affair that remained up for grabs until the literal final seconds of overtime, when the Chiefs finally secured a touchdown to win for the second year in a row. The Chiefs are the first team to repeat in the Superbowl since the Patriots accomplished the feat in 2004 and 2005. No team has ever won three times in a row, which is a task the Chiefs organization is already discussing chasing after. Food for the event was brought in by attendees, as well as prepared by Jones and her staff. Sweet and Sour meatballs were a hit, as were the traditional chicken wings. For many in attendance, Enders is taking on the role of community gathering spot. The week prior, the Hotel hosted a craft night for constructing Valentine’s items. Over the night, manager Terah Jones and her Marketing director McKenzie Peck made their way through a group of people who gathered in the back room at a series of craft tables to design and create a variety of different craft projects. Jody Suter and Megan Ozburn worked on modge-podging Valentines coasters and laughing, while Glenda Hart, who had just completed a heart-festooned wall-hanging, joined them. Paige Messerly was in the process of finishing her own wall-hanging, which she assured those present her husband would love, whether he wanted to or not. Terah Jones and McKenzie Peck

Jody Suter, Megan Ozburn, and Glenda Hart work on Valentine’s crafts at Enders.

Paige Messerly and her wall-hanging

found themselves working on projects for people that couldn’t be there, and making sure that everyone had everything they needed. The room was lit up by conversation and the smell of acrylic paint and glue guns in the cozy manner suggested by such an undertaking. “This is the first class like this we’ve held here,” Jones said. “It’s going pretty well, I think.” Jody Suter agreed, smoothing down the tissue block atop her coaster. “I’ll definitely be back,” she said. Later in the month, the hotel will host a Valentine’s Dance and Dinner at 6:00 on Saturday, February 17 for adults. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the location or through endersonmain.com. A pottery painting class will be held on Friday, March 1 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. “We’re trying to bring some fun activities for people, and we plan to keep doing it,” Jones said. Looking around at the groups working on their projects, the chatter intermittently broken by laughter, Peck said, “It seems like they’re having fun, and that’s what matters!” C Y

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Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

February 15, 2024

Group seeks funding for communication board project CARIBOU COUNTY COURTHOUSE – Whitney Liechti, Megan Ozburn, and Ann Mathews approached the commission about accessing PILT funding to establish a communication board system for students to use on the playgrounds around town and in other locations throughout the county. The group had discussed the possibility with the shop class at Soda Springs High School, who is willing to put the boards together. They would like to put them in various places, including the library and other locations. The boards would provide a method for students with communication difficulties to communicate with other students and each other. The group was looking to create a “more condensed” version of the communication boards many of their children currently use. In addition to the boards, the group is looking at purchasing or arranging for indoor gym equipment, large print books, compression vests, flexible seating options, and magnetic light covers. The group has been working within the PTO and community to advocate for the needs of students with autism and other communication barriers. At home, they have discovered an iPad app which functions similarly to the proposed boards. The app and the printed version are very similar, and up to 5 tablets can be added to the same account. The group is seeking to help students in other ways, such as providing tents where students can go if they are overwhelmed, and “wobble boards.” A wobble board is a balance board that allows kids to balance on it and receive sensory input. They are alsolooking to put together folders for parents to in-

form them about various services that they could look into. The group sought $4,618.32 to cover the resources outlined above. They have talked to the School District, who doesn’t have the money to budget for the expense right now. The PTO has recently spent over $1000, but can only spend PTO funds at Thirkill. The group confirmed to Commissioner McCullough that it was sometimes difficult to secure funbding for these kinds of projects. The commissioners asked whether there was a grantwriter available at the school, as there should be fed money available for projects in this area. The group had not been able to locate anyone yet to write such a grant, though they were open to the possibility. The need for a full county grant writer was discussed, as this is just one example of a project initiative that would have a good chance of success in the grant-writing field. SS is one of the only districts in Idaho that has a Parent Special Needs Advisory Committee, and they would like to expand and continue to support the community as much as possible. “Our biggest priority right now is to get the comm boards out there,” Whitney Liechti said. “We’re grateful for you guys taking time to listen. It’s hard to find people willing to listen to these concerns,” Megan Ozburn added. “This group started because there are significant needs that our kids had, but they’re all different so we have a lot to do.” A discussion was had about the different types of communication boards available. Since different students will have different needs,

Whitney Liechti, Megan Ozburn, and Ann Mathews received funds from the County Commissioners for a communication board project.

the group explained that the district Speech Pathologist will work through what kinds of specific needs will be necessary at each location the boards are placed. “I want to applaud them,” County Clerk Jill Stoor said. “This parent group has been huge, and such a benefit.” Members of the board voiced agreement. “Early intervention is key,” Megan Ozburn said. “We missed some important years where we didn’t know what to look for. It is life-altering.” “The more we can have inclusion. And the earlier they communicate with each other, the better,” Ann Mathews said.

The county passed a motion to approve $4,000 in funds for the project, from PILT funds. PILT funds are received by the county in exchange for tax dollars not received on government owned land. The group and commission were hopeful that the city might be able to help with other aspects of the program in the future, and that it could become a countywide program down the road. A motion was made by Commissioner Somsen to approve $4,000 from PILT to the Special Education Fund for Soda Springs SD #150 for communication boards, ed tools, and parent folder.

Snow and 31 degrees for the Fire and Ice Winter Fest in Lava LAVA HOT SPRINGS – Just over Fish Creek Summit in Lava Hot Springs, this year’s Fire and Ice Winterfest once again saw costumed groups of floaters with questionable judgement braving the Portneuf River in zero degree water, among other events. The “Penguin Float Race” is probably the most well known and dramatic event of the festival, which is held the first week in February every year. “I was in the water for long enough to want to get out,” Nicole Sizemore of Salt Lake said. “You were on the water, not in the water,” her husband Mark said, shivering. “There’s a big difference.” “It was enough,” Sizemore said. Lava Hot Springs invests significant resources into its tourism and tourist promotion. As a tourism based economy, it relies heavily on visitors’ dollars to keep afloat, to use the operative metaphor. According to the town’s visitor center, “The Fire and Ice Winter Fest is definitely one of our biggest events of the year.” It is heavily featured on the town’s web and social media presence, and brings in people from as far away as Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California, judging by the license plates that more than fill all of the town’s available parking spots. The Penguin Float Race includes

Robert and Teresa Gray from Honeyville, UT tackle the chili cookoff with their dog Sophie.

Not surprisingly, the hot pools were even more popular than the frozen river.

a costume contest, and the sight of fully outfitted and drenched Vikings, Minions, Ninja turtles, Cheerleaders, and Monsters adds a surreal quality to the proceedings. Luckily, events such as the Chili Tasting and Cookoff, Beer Garden and Chugging Contest, Light Parade, and fireworks are significantly warmer. The hot pools are also in constant use. While not for everyone, the festival is certainly up many people’s alleys, and the streets stayed packed through both days of the weekend festival.

This Road Warrior hit the river for a change.

No major incidents were reported, though one visitor from an Idaho National Laboratory (dressed as a group in 19th century German outfits) was reported to have slipped and broken an ankle during the Float Race.

Dozens, and possibly hundreds (according to the tourism board) of people made their way down the icy river for Lava hot Springs' yearly Winter Fest.

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February 15, 2024

Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

NEWS OF RECORD

Grace City Council meets GRACE CITY – The Grace City Council held a regularly scheduled meeting on January 17 at the City Hall building. Councilmembers Larry Allen, Kathy Tillotson, Colleen Fluckiger, Curtis Toone and Superintendent Riley Crookston and Clerk Shelley Reeves. After an invocation by Kathy Tillotson and the pledge led by Shelley Reeves, the minutes from the previous meeting were approved. Bills in the amount of $94, 725.96 and payroll in the amount of $11,525.21 were reviewed by the council and a motion for approval was seconded and passed. City Superintendent Crookston presented two permits, which had been approved. Jesus Mejia had permit #2024-03 approved for Home Repairs, and Matt Loertscher had permit #2024-02 approved for a storage building.

Zoning Commission

Zoning Commission Chairman David Pristupa presented a change to the Zoning Mapp for the Grace School District. The district had asked for its zoning to change from R1 to Commercial in order to move a stage container on the property. The container had been placed on the property prior to the passage of the ordinance that prohibits containers in R1 zones, which means that the container is grandfathered into the ordinance in its current location. However, as soon as it is moved it would become in violation of the ordinance. The issue was researched by the Zoning Commission, and County Attorney Doug Wood was present at the most recent Commission meeting. He related that most school districts in the state of Idaho are zoned as Residential property, and that changing the zoning for the Grace School District would constitute “spot zoning,” which is something that planning and zoning boards across the country are trying to prevent. Attorney Wood advised the city to consider denying the zone change and instead recommending that a conditional use permit be applied for by the school district when the time comes to move the container. PZ recommended denial of the permit. Councilmember Allen moved to deny the Zoning Map Amendment Change 2023-02, and the city council unanimously agreed. Chairman Pristupa also presented Conditional Use Permit #2024-227 to allow storage of junked vehicles in the Industrial Zone. Chairman Pristupa stated that Mr. Anderson told the zoning commission that he was waiting for the services of a crusher, which would be crushing the cars to allow them to be moved out of the

city. Some of the vehicles are also in need of titles or release forms before they can be removed. Anderson stated that he was willing to build a landscaping feature to block the view of the vehicles from the public. The Zoning Commission recommended a three year time period by which the cars needed to be removed from the property. The council discussed the issue, but did not take any further action pending a motion to table the discussion until the next meeting by Councilmember Fluckiger.

New Citizen Handout

The New Citizen handout (which is being worked on by the city for distribution to new residents of the city) was discussed. Councilmember Allen requested that it be translated into Spanish for Spanish-speaking citizens. Councilmember Tillotson made a motion to approve the handout. It was seconded by Councilmember Fluckiger and passed unanimously. Superintendent Crookston reported that they have been clearing snow. Thye got the sander on the snowplow fixed and were able to get started clearing out the fire hydrants. He reported that he had received many compliments from citizens on snow removal. He reported that he needs to order new garbage cans, which will be on the next agenda. Mayor Barthlome thanked the employees for all their hard work. It was reported that snowballs had been thrown at the new sign. The potential for installing cameras to oversee the location was discussed. Councilmember Allen discussed snow removal. He reported that plows from the city and state have been pushing snow onto the sidewalks in front of businesses. He suggested that the city contract with someone to clear the sidewalks. A city ordinance clarifies that the sidewalks are the responsibility of the property owner to deal with. Councilmembers Tillotson and Toone expressed the opinion that the city needed to take care of its citizens. Business owners Wade Rigby and Dana McCurdy stated that the snow on their property is being plowed from the street, which places the burden of clearing it on them despite it coming from city and state plows. A discussion was held about how to best clear the snow and meet the interests of all the involved parties. No formal decision was made. Councilmember Allen stated that he would ask Gil Wright from the Idaho Transportation Department to come to the next meeting and discuss the state’s role in snow removal on Main Street. The meeting was adjourned at 7:16 p.m.

DEADLINE to submit items for THE

IDAHO ENTERPRISE/CARIBOU COUNTY

IS FRIDAY AT 4:00 P.M.

CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF

5

MAGISTRATE COURT

Wayne Rex Bartschi, Georgetown, fail to register annually, $10.50, costs $59.50 Daniel Wesley Fletcher, Baton Rouge, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50 Christopher Anthony Parkin, Lehi, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Justin Cameron Reiners, West Valley, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50 Christopher Florian Seitz, Philadelphia, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $59.50

SODA SPRINGS POLICE

Randall Carl Erickson, Pocatello, fail to maintain liability insurance, $75.00, costs $56.50 Abigail D Hansen, Soda Springs, windshield and/or window view to be unobstructed, $10.50, costs $56.50 Shannon Dawn Moore, Soda Springs, stop sign and yield sign violation, $33.50, costs $59.50

IDAHO STATE POLICE

Roberto Alejandro Castillo, Logan, operate vehicle when unsafe of improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $59.50 Wesley Scott Gilmer, Knoxville, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Joellen Paterno Jensen, Paris, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Christopher Lavell Jenkins, Shelley, possession or use of a legend drug or precursor without authorized prescription, $300.00, costs $157.50, 180 days jail, 175 days suspended, 5 days credit time served, 120 days drivers license suspended, 24 months probation; driving under the influence, $750.00, costs $202.50, 180 days jail, 175 days suspended, 5 days credit time served, 120 days drivers license suspended, 24 months probation; consume or possess open container by driver, $100.00, costs $187.50, 14 days jail, 9 days suspended, 5 days credit time served – Agency: SSPD Carma Lynne Jorgensen, Montpelier, driving under the influence, $750.00, costs $446.50, 24 months supervised probation; resisting or obstructing officers, $300.00, costs $157.50, 24 months supervised probation – Agency: CCSO Dora Deen Jorgensen, Soda Springs, consume or possess open container by driver, $100.00, costs $187.50 – Agency: SSPD Lyman Scott Nelson, Soda Springs, driving under the influence, $700.00, costs $202.50, 18 months supervised probation – Agency: SSPD Damiano Slim, Kayenta, attempt to commit violent injury, $700.00, costs $157.50, 90 days jail, 90 days credit time served – Agency: CCSO

Bistline Grant Awarded BANCROFT CITY – Thanks to the generosity of the F.M., Anne G., and Beverly B, Bistline Foundation in the Idaho Community Foundation, The North Gem Education Foundation has received a $1,595 grant which will be used to expose the students to a higher level of Dramatic Arts and Art Education with a Shakespeare production and workshop provided by the Idaho Shakespeare Festival School of Theater in March. This tremendous opportunity means that our rural students can get an opportunity they might not have had otherwise, to have these experiences and expand their knowledge and exposure to a variety of Art and how it manifests itself in the Theatre setting. The

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exposure to a Shakespeare theme has tremendous benefits for the students and enhances their art culture as well as expanding on their experiences in Literature. The grant also provided funds for supplies for a newly acquired pottery kiln at the school. The importance is for the rural students to experience all that life has to offer and especially in the Arts. Hopefully touching every student in a way that they feel and then can express their own artistic talents and views in a variety of ways. We hope this educational opportunity will reach beyond the classroom and possibly ignite a passion for the theatre or expression of Art that the students may not even know they have.

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Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

EVENT CALENDARS BANCROFT

Feb. 15, Thursday FAFSA & Scholarship Night Feb. 17, Saturday BBB District Feb. 18 Sunday LDS Services Feb. 21 – Wednesday BBB District Feb. 22 - Thursday BBB District

GRACE

Feb. 15, Thursday GBB State

Feb. 16, Friday GBB State Girls Wrestling Districts @ Pocatello Wrestling Districts @ Bear Lake Feb. 17, Saturday GBB State Girls Wrestling Districts @ Pocatello, Wrestling Districts @ Bear Lake

SODA SPRINGS/ CARIBOU COUNTY

Feb. 15, Thursday No School – Winter Break BBB Districts Idaho Food Bank

Feb. 16, Friday Debate @ Blackfoot, GBB State Girls Wrestling Districts @ Pocatello Caribou County Senior Dinner Feb. 17, Saturday BBB Districts Debate @ Blackfoot GBB State

SODA SPRINGS LUNCH MENU Lunches served with Milk

Monday, February 19

Feb. 18, Sunday Presbyterian Services Caribou Bible Church Services Catholic Mass Open Arms Church Services LDS Services

NO SCHOOL

Feb. 19, Monday President’s Day!

Monday, February 19

Feb. 20, Tuesday BBB Districts

Feb. 19, Monday President’s Day BBB District Game #5

Feb. 21, Wednesday City Council (5pm) BBB Dsitricts Caribou County Senior Dinner

Feb. 21, Wednesday BBB District City Council (6pm)

LUNCH MENUS

Feb. 22, Thursday Wrestling State @ Pocatello

Feb. 18, Sunday LDS Services

Feb. 20, Tuesday JH Music Clinic @ Marsh Valley

February 15, 2024

Feb. 22, Thursday Dance & Cheer State @ Boise Wresting State @ Pocatello

Tuesday, February 20

Chicken Nuggets, Chips, Fruit, Veggies

Wednesday, February 21

Taco, Refried Beans, Fruit, Veggies

Thursday, February 22 Pizza, Fruit, Veggies

NORTH GEM LUNCH MENU Milk and Choice of Bar Each Day

NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, February 20

Shepherds Pie, Breadstick, Deli Bar, Roasted Baby Roasted Carrots, Peach Parfaits

Wednesday, February 21

Super Nachos, Deli Bar, Refried Beans w/Cheese, Pineapple Tidbits

Thursday, February 22

Bacon Ranch Flatbread, Deli Bar, Broccoli/Cauliflower Bake, Pears

GRACE LUNCH MENU Lunches served with Milk

Monday, February 19 NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, February 20

Pizza, Food Choice – Salad or Cinnamon Apple Slices

Wednesday, February 21

BRAIN TEASERS

Chicken Nuggets, Au Grain Potatoes, Roll, Food Choice – Corn or Mandarin Oranges

Thursday, February 22

Breakfast Sandwich, Food Choice – Veggie Sticks or Applesauce

double truck

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February 15, 2024

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Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

LOOKING BACK AT PAGES FROM THE PAST 5 Years ago, February 2019

Mayor Austin Robinsons asked the city council to approve an advisory committee to research and develop ideas for how the Enders Hotel building, recently gifted to the city by Rex Maughan, might best be used, Myrna McCullough was appointed chairperson of the committee. An appraisal of the building was discussed during executive session of the city council. The Planning and Zoning comprehensive plan was in its final staged of being reviewed and updated. The comprehensive plan lays out the city’s vision for future growth, as well as the zoning map for the city. “We all want homes and businesses,” Councilmemebr Ryan Carpenter said. “But we are not in a position for 150 new families.” A public hearing on the plan was held, and attended by a large group of citizens who wanted to provide their input. It was reported by the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Idaho that the state’s precipitation was at 104% of normal. The highest accumulation was in the Little Wood basin, which received 109% of January’s average. The Lady Cardinals won their eighth straight 2A Fifth District title over Malad, as they once again earner the top seed at the state tournament with a 55-25 win over the Dragons. The Lady Grizzlies overcame the Butte Pirates to become the 1A Division 1 Champions. Maniah Clegg’s 15 points were a high for the game. The Gem Valley Community Choir departed from Salt Lake City to Rome early in February. The group performed at a number of locations throughout the Italian capital, and sighseeing during their downtime. The group of over 40 individuals from Utah and Idaho was under the direction of Anne Olorenshaw. Renee Pipkin took home a fourth place win at the championship game in Soda Springs in what was unofficially the state championship for girls wrestling. This was the first year girls wrestling had been held at a state level.

10 years ago, 2014

The theme for 2014’s July 4th parade was announced by Rotary Club chairman Blair Winward: “Agriculture—America’s Lifeblood”. The July 4th parade is one of the major service projects for the Rotarians, said club president-elect Alan Skinner. The club will soon begin selecting the grand marshals, organizing, advertising, and raising funds to purchase fireworks for the show. A luncheon featuring nine different soups was held at the Presbyterian Church in Soda Springs to raise money for the construction of a well in the country of Ghana. The soups included split pea, chicken noodle, chicken taco, clam chowder, beef cabbage, chili, vegetable, and cream of chicken. Grace BPA Advisor Kami Cox and assistant advisor Julie Hill reported that 55 students from Grace High School for regional competition in Pocatello. Rylee Mansfield and Anna Hubbard described their respective events, Advanced Interview and Economic Research. Over twenty students placed in the competition, and qualified for state. The Gem Valley Performing Arts Center in Grace hosted a Valentines Dessert Social featuring a performance of ‘McManus’. Actor Time Behrens took on the role of the north Idaho writer Patrick McManus. The GVPA volunteer members were: Liz Anderson, Jackie Barthlome, Judy Bitton, Suzanne Hill, Libby Hubbard, Nona and Dana McCurdy, Brenda Nielsen, Mary Obray, Beckey Sherer, and Kathy Tillotson. The popular act “Chicken Dinner Road” was scheduled for next week. Grace City Councilmember Kim Christensen was unanimously elected to the presidency of the city council. It was announced that minutes from the Grace city council meetings would be recorded and saved electronically. This would eliminate the need to read the minutes during future meetings.

15 years ago, 2009

As a result of Superintendent of

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State Instruction Tom Luna’s proposed plan to reduce the public school budget by $62 million, the Soda Springs School District prepared to mitigate the effects of the reduction in funds as much as possible. Superintendent Molly Stein explained that budget holdbacks and strict spending guidelines have been in place since the beginning of the school year when the statewide funding crisis was first discussed. Steps such as the closing of some school buildings and reductions in staff and hours have already taken effect. Consolidation is another plan, which has not proven to be popular for voters. The potential for a four-day school day, which would result in some cost savings, is being explored. Monsanto was given a special award by the Soda Springs City Council for its “unheralded support of the new disc golf course” and its continued support of the city’s library, parks, and other community efforts, according to a speech by Mayor Kirk Hansen during the presentation of the award. County officials reminded residents to refrain from pushing cleared snow from driveways and property onto roads, as it was against the county snow clearing ordinance and created safety risks. A plan was passed by the Grace City Council to develop, update, and inventory the Christmas lighting to be used during the Christmas season. Plans were also made for June’s Good Ol Days celebration. A full series of events including a parade, coloring contest, tractors, and arena function was discussed. The Grace Lounge and TNT were welcomed to the Chamber of Commerce. The North Gem Lady Cowboys defeated the Rockland Lady Bulldogs in Forth during the first game of the Rocky Mountain Fifth-Sixth District A1 Tournament in Firth. The finished the game was a clear 64-31 win. Bailey Simmons led all scorers with 19 points, Chynna Holbrook had 16. The Lady Cowboys then lost a nail-biter to the Mackay Lady Miners 44-40. The team’s final game against the Rockland Bulldogs again, would determine whether they would make it to state in second place. Grace author Epsein LaRue released her third travel nursing volume “Highway Hypodermics: On the Road Again.” The book series is used as an informational resource by traveling nurses and others in the health care field.

25 Years ago, 1999

In a Letter to the Editor, Jeneane Sorensen of Ireland Bank reassured residents that the Y2K situation that was being widely discussed would not be a catastrophe as long as people were calm and realistic about the potential for any disruption in the financial system. Her primary request was that customers avoid making any “runs” on the bank that would possibly inspire a panic that would be the real problem. A President’s Day Banquet was sponsored by both the County Republican and County Democrat party organizations, which invited the public to attend in the spirit of community beyond politics. The vent was held at Tigert Middle School. The North Gem PTSA sponsored a “snow day” for students in kindergarten through 4th grade. The students were taken to Priestley Hill on the Lund highway for the day with their sleds and spent the afternoon playing on the hill. The PTSA provided a bonfire and hot chocolate, as well as hay bales to sit around the fire on. Later in the month, the PTSA will be sponsoring an “Etiquette Day” for the students. A recent listeria outbreak in the country prompted the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to advise residents to check their freezers for any potentially affected meat products, including those produced by Oscar Mayer, Thorn Apple Valley, and Sara Lee.

35 years ago, 1989

Grace Mayor Berdell McCurdy welcomed representatives of Utah Power and Light Co, who announced that they would be lending a helping

hand in the community and council with regard to a federal area development program. The contract between Valley Engineering and the City of Grace was discussed at length. ‘Reading Aloud: Motivating children to make books into friends, not enemies,’ an 80-minute color film was announced for March at the Soda Springs High School Auditorium. Best-selling author Jim Trelease explains that he was motivated to work on the project by recent reports about the decline in literacy among American students. The film and book upon which it is based encourage parents to instill a love of reading into their children. A Joint Memorial passed the Senate and House in the Idaho Legislature supporting the establishment of a National Monument at the Battle of Bear River, near Preston. The small stream, which was called Beaver Creek at the time, was the site at which the local Shoshone were established. A encounter between the military and Shoshone resulted in the deaths of up to 300 people, the majority of them belonging to the tribe. The battle is an important part of local history and the development of the area, as well as a reminder of the conflicts that underwrote that westward expansion. It was reported by the Caribou County Sheriff’s Department that it had logged 6,590 miles during the month of January, partly as a result of being called out to assist motorists stuck in the winter weather, and respond to traffic accidents and slideoffs. The county also logged a number of miles visiting local schools as part of the “Take a Bite out of Crime” program. A number of local literary experts spoke at the Grace Library’s ‘Let’s Talk About it’ program at the library. The primary discussion was led by ISU professor Daniel Hunt as a presentation on the Willa Cather novel ‘Death Comes for the Archbishop’. Dennis Walsh and Brian Attebery, also of ISU, presented on other topics related to Western literature. As a result of cold and wind, the Soda Springs members of the Klassy Cubs performing groups were not able to attend the Dance-A-Rama and dinner in Grace the morning before they left for Hawaii. The Grace drill team had been raising money through a variety of activities over the year to fund the trip, where the 15 girls and 15 parents would attend” big league basketball games” at which the girls will be performing. The Grace High Drama Club presented a version of Dracula to the school and the public. The production was described as “hilarious in its interpretation”. Brett Keller, Cody Fowler, Kristi Panter, Ginger Christensen, Tracy Findlay, Kamian Bennett, Chad Kirby, and Doyle Peck were all congratulated on their performances in the article, which rated the production quote highly. The State of Idaho announced a contest for an “Idaho Centennial Song,” the winner of which would receive $500. Those interested in submitting entries were encouraged to send them on cassette tapes to the

Centennial Commission in Boise.

50 Years ago, 1974

SICOG (The Southeast Idaho Council of Governments) has been proposed to serve as the agency responsible for developing an areawide plan to protect and improve water quality. If selected, SICOG would be responsible for developing a mutlifacet waster water management plan for Caribou County and the Pocatello/Chubbuck area. The appointment of a local agency to oversee pollution abatement was outlined in the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972. The governor will make the final designation. The study will involve sewage collection systems, treatment plants, storm sewers, industrial waster water dischargers, and pollution analysis. The Soda Springs Women’s Aglow club will be starting Bible Classes every Thursday beginning in February. The classes will be held in Helen Wagner’s home in the Robison Trailer Court. It is noted that hers is the only double-wide in the court. Mrs. Phyllis Olsen, Chairman of the Grace Federated Literary Club, presented the first in a series of articles for the month promoting the new system of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training, commonly referred to as CPR. Olsen explained that “every woman should become involved and trained in CPR.” The county’s many EMTs and other emergency service personnel had recently completed training in Advanced CPR Training, as well as other life-saving techniques. A letter-writing campaign be residents of towns along the route of the Old Portland Rose Amtrak to have service reinstated. The paper included a coupon that could be filled out and used for a presentation to Amtrak officials demonstrating the interest and commitment of those interested in a commuter rail line. “If we want passenger service, we will have to do it ourselves. Passengers, not pressure, is the only thing that will influence Amtrak” said the group’s organizer. The need for additional housing in Soda Springs was noted. Since the opening of Agricultural Products Corporation complex at Conda, housing availability in the town of Soda Springs had essentially reached zero open units. The need for additional housing solutions for the community was tied to the increasing occurrence of gas shortages and price increases, which made commuting to Caribou County especially expensive. Soda Springs High School students Greg Torgensen and Richard Summers were named Outstanding Teenagers of America for 1974, according to Soda Springs principal Glade Oberhansli. The students were chosen on the basis of their academic records, as well as community service. The two would compete in the state wide competition next, after which the top 51 from across the country would compete nationwide for the title of Outstanding Teenager in the U.S.

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Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

County Commission—Caribou County 2/12/2024 CARIBOU COUNTY – The Caribou County Board of Commissioners met for their regularly scheduled meeting Monday, February 12. This is an account of the meeting, but not the official minutes for the meeting.

Kevin McClain—Road and Bridge

Kevin McClain spoke to the commissioners about looking for new source of gravel for road maintenance. The county will try to open up back roads as soon as they can, though Road and Bridge suggested that waiting a bit longer would help preserve the state of the road as the snow melts. RB is also looking at buying more carbonite snowblades for $4700. They generally last about 3 years. The department has used a number of methods for preserving the life of the blades. They will plan to purchase at least two sets. Point S was consulted about tires for the graders, and an arrangement for upkeep on the county’s tires was discussed.

Eric Hobson/Larry Weaver—Fire Ambulance

Eric Hobson updated the commission on an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) between the county and Bayer for an onsite ambulance. The county will hold the jurisdiction for calls to the mining site, but the Bayer site has the authorization to implement pre-hospital measures on site. An old ambulance the county has in its inventory will be used through a lease by Bayer. A motion to enter the Dry Valley Emergency Services MOU between the county and Bayer for the calendar year was made and unanimously approved. Replacing the roof at the ambulance garage was discussed. The roof repair recently conducted was not completely successful. Bids for re-doing the roof have been received. One for 29K and the other for 43K. Originally 100K was slated for the roof, and the project should cost significantly less, which will allow the extra to be returned to the budget as capital funds in the amount of close to 65K. Commissioner Somsen moved to accept the bid from Thomas Robinson Roofing for a rain gutter and reroofing of the EMS building for around 43K. The motion was approved. The building earthquake in-

NOTICE

ventory recently conducted in the county was determined to be inaccurate. EMT Class is in week 12. 18 people are still enrolled in the course. They met with the EMS Task Force for the state. Commissioner Somsen raised the issue of resistance to new taxes in Boise, but expressed cautious optimism. Somsen inquired about solar farms and wind farms on federal land. Hobson was asked whether the county has a resource management plan. With a plan in place, counties are able to limit the ways federal programs affect their regions, and how resources can be deployed on federal land managed by county entities.

Rowdy Larkins— Courthouse Maintenance

Rowdy Larkins spoke to the commissioners about issues in the courthouse building. A bid for the judge’s chambers flooring has been received. Noise from the floor, as well as unevenness have been issues. The bid received was for $21,288K from Construction Services, and was approved. The elevator is in need of an oil change. Issues with some equipment in the courtroom picking up what is believed to be a radio or wi-fi signal from a local gas station, which intermittently broadcasts loud music into the courtroom were raised. The occurrence had been noted by many people in the building, and was being investigated.

Jake Poulsen—Keller Williams Contract

Jake Poulsen spoke with the commission on behalf of Keller Williams. KW presented a draft of coverage for services covered. The agreement portion covers such things as serving as the engineer in the county, coordinating with county officials, overseeing services for Caribou County commissioners. KW can respond to requests from the county in the form of task orders. Members of the office will serve as surveyors, road design and planners, bridge structural engineers, construction engineering inspection, design, hydraulic engineering, grant writer. The company will also work at development review services, review of plats, checking conformance with design standards, provide input and consultation on a variety of things, including transportation, traffic studies, representation for/with county. The will work at the behest of the

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE On Thursday, the 30th day of May, 2024, at the hour of 10:00 o’clock a.m. of said day at Alliance Title & Escrow, 71 E. 1st S., Soda Springs, in the County of Caribou, State of Idaho, Ryan M. Fawcett, as Successor Trustee, will sell at public auction, to the highest bidder, for cash, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, the following described real property situated in the County of Caribou, State of Idaho, and described as follows, to-wit: The North 70 feet of Lot 13, Block 1 of the First Addition to the Lewis Subdivision, in the City of Soda Springs, according to the official plat thereof, as recorded in the Office of the County Recorder of Caribou County, Idaho, under Recorder’s Instrument No. 32340. The Successor Trustee has no knowledge of a more particular description of the above-referenced real property, but for purposes of compliance with Section 60-113, Idaho Code, the Successor Trustee has been informed that the street address of 120 Cedar Ave., Soda Springs, Idaho is sometimes associated with said real property. Said sale will be made without covenant or warranty regarding title, possession or encumbrances to satisfy the obligation secured by and pursuant to the power of sale conferred in the Deed of Trust executed by Quitclaim Deed executed by Joey S. Avila to Lawrence Osborn and Sarina Avila, recorded August 1, 2018 as Instrument No. 201346, as Grantor, to RYAN M. FAWCETT, a member of the Idaho State Bar, as Successor Trustee, and IDAHO CENTRAL CREDIT UNION, as Beneficiary, recorded August 17, 2018, as Instrument No. 201431, Mortgage records of Caribou County, Idaho. THE ABOVE GRANTOR IS NAMED C Y

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county on projects that require engineering work. Commissioner McCullough asked whether the grant writers on Keller Williams would be able to provide service to the county for grant writing. Poulsen explained that those services were available to clients for a set $1K rate. Project fees are inclusive of time anticipated for travel and work in location. Poulsen mentioned that the county would probably be well-advised to sign the ISPWC document that lays out the guidelines for planning construction projects in the county. Attorney Wood mentioned that the indemnity portion of the contract might be in violation of direction from the state AG’s office, and that he would share some replacement language to Keller Williams to attempt to correct it.

S. Doug Wood

The County Attorney reported that he had experienced connectivity/microphone issues inside the courtroom during a trial. In order to connect everything necessary, cables and wires were stretched across the room. Jill Stoor reported that there were court funds available to repair whatever needed to be fixed. Wood reiterated the existence of the audio problem in the courtroom. It was reported that as far as the court officers were concerned, the firewall protections for the network were in place, and should not be the source of the problem.

SS School District PTO

Whitney Lichti, Megan Ozburn, Ann Mathews from the School PTO approached the commission about accessing PILT funding to establish a communication board system on the playgrounds. The shop class at the HS is willing to put the boards together. They would like to put them in various places, including the library and other locations. This would be a method for deaf students and students with communication challenges to communicate with other students and each other. The group was looking for a total of $4,618.32 to account for the equipment they ha dproposed. They have talked to the School District about funding, but the money was reportedly not available right now. The PTO has recently spent over $1000 on the project, but it can only spend PTO funds at Thirkill Elementary, while the group would like to reach the community more

broadly. A motion was made to approve $4K in funds for the group, which will go most of the way toward securing its needs for the project.

Lloyd Sorensen—949 Mountain Road Concerns

Lloyd Sorensen spoke to the commissioners about road maintenance on Turner Road. According to Sorensen, the road hasn’t been upgraded for several decades. Sorensen sent pictures of the condition of the road to the commissioners. Mathews asked whether the county had recently moved chips, etc. to the road. Sorensen stated that the section had been re-gravelled in the last 4 or 5 years. The road has had crushed slag on it before, though in the meantime the traffic has pushed it down into the mud. “There is no gravel on that road—it’s all clay. To live and drive on that is just miserable. A guy working on the truck said ‘where have you been driving that truck?’” Sorensen reported. Funds for the road had been committed for use, but had to be used elsewhere. Gravel is in short supply for a number of roads in the county that need additional material. Clay has been brought to the surface as a result of weather. A discussion about the positives and negatives of orange gravel, which has been used throughout the county was had. It has been reported that some of it has been perfect, but other loads have been overly heavy on clay components. Kevin McClain of RB stated that putting chips or gravel down right now would result in the gravel being moved to the side of the street during snow removal. Due to the current conditions, it was advised that repairing the road should be held off until spring in order to make the repairs as efficient and cost-effective as possible. Chloride, which is good for dust suppression, also results in surface loss during weather changes. The road has been on the list of roads the county is keeping its eyes on for potential upgrades, paving, or additional work. “It’s a horrible time of year to try to fix anything,” Commissioner Somsen remarked.

Raegan Yamauchi

Raegan Yamauchi spoke to the Commissioners to thank them for support and report on her experience at the Miss

TO COMPLY WITH SECTION 45-1506 (4)(a), IDAHO CODE. NO REPRESENTATION IS MADE THAT THEY ARE, OR ARE NOT, PRESENTLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS OBLIGATION. Said sale is a public auction for which the bid price must be paid immediately upon close of bidding by certified funds in the form of cashier’s checks, certified checks, or valid money orders only. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason whatsoever, the successful bidder’s exclusive and sole remedy shall be the return of actual monies paid to the Successor Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The default for which this sale is to be made is the failure to pay when due, monthly installment payments under the Open-End Home Equity Credit Agreement and Truth in Lending Disclosure dated August 13, 2018, in the amount of $286.00 each, for the months of July through December, 2023, inclusive. All delinquent payments are now due, plus accumulated late charges, plus all advances, plus any costs or expenses associated with this foreclosure. The accrued interest is at the rate of 7.74% per annum from June 25, 2023, and the Beneficiary elects to sell or cause the trust property to be sold to satisfy said obligation. The principal balance owing as of this date on the obligation secured by said Deed of Trust is $14,883.66, plus accrued interest at the rate of 7.74% per annum from June 25, 2023. DATED This 30th day of January, 2024. RYAN M. FAWCETT, a Member of the Idaho State Bar, SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE #5576-2-15-22-29-3-4-24-T4

February 15, 2024

America contest. Funds from the county were essential to her putting together her program, as she recounted. She explained her plans for the remaining months of her term as Miss Idaho.

Jill Stoor

Commissioner Somsen reported that Bonneville County was being hit with requests for solar farms. They had been offered 1000/acre for the placement of solar panels, though landowners would need to fund the infrastructure to start it up. The county has been explaining that the landfill will not take the refuse. It was mentioned that the idea of solar farms does not fit into the county’s comprehensive plan. The Idaho State Tax Commission sent a letter to the county. They have finalized approval for annexation in Bancroft near the park. This will change the tax code areas and election information. Certificate of residency— fall approval as well as spring. The issue of backdating the certification was discussed. A motion to accept the certificates of residency was approved. Fair board oaths were presented. Candidacy forms for the commissioners up for election were handed out. The Prosecuting Attorney, Sheriff, Coroner, and two county commission slots (McCullough and Mathews), are up for election in this cycle. Judge Brower will be interviewing candidates for law clerks.

ON THIS DAY

1768 First mustard manufactured in America advertised, Philadelphia

1842 First adhesive postage stamps in U.S. (private delivery company), NYC

1903 First Teddy Bear introduced in America, made by Morris & Rose Michtom

1905 First thoroughbred horse race meet at Oaklawn Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas

1950 Walt Disney's animated film "Cinderella" premieres in Boston

1961 Plane crash kills entire U.S. figure skating team outside Brussels airport in Belgium enroute to World Championships in Prague from NYC; 73 crew and passengers (including 34 American skaters, coaches, officials, and other team members), and a farmer on the ground are lost

1985 Teen film "The Breakfast Club" is released, written and directed by John Hughes, starring Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson, Emilio Estevez, Anthony Michael Hall and Ally Sheedy 2001 First draft of the complete human genome is published in the journal "Nature"

2005 Online video sharing site YouTube is launched in the United States by Steve Chen, Chad Hurley and Jawed Karim

2022 Revival of Meredith Willson's musical "The Music Man". starring Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster, opens at Winter Garden Theater, NYC

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February 15, 2024

OBITUARIES

During the months following the Caribou County Sun's last edition in October, many obituaries were not published locally. As a community service, the Enterprise will be running those obituaries in our pages free of charge so that a record of those passings will be available to residents of the county. Obituaries are one of things that help bind communities together, remind them of their roots and history, and help keep those who have moved away maintain their ties to their hometowns.

George Paul Swanson June 15, 1949-November 1, 2023

George Paul Swanson, known to many friends as Tall Paul, passed away peacefully with his family in Pocatello on November 1, 2023. Paul was born June 15, 1949, in Salmon, Idaho. He was the only son of George Junior Swanson and Olga Delores Gerbich Swanson. Paul spent his younger years in Salmon, Idaho. His family later moved to Soda Springs, Idaho when he was 11. He graduated from Soda Springs High School in 1967. After graduating, he served in the United States Navy for two years and later married Diane Carver on February 9, 1973. They had three children and later moved to Grace Idaho. Paul is survived by his daughter, Sophia Swanson, four grandchildren, Shanea Diane Bevins, Wilford Paul Price, Eli Cordon Price, all of Pocatello, Idaho and Falisia Cruz of Bozeman, Montana, along with a sister, Barbara Jean Fisher of Rock Springs, Wyoming. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, George and Delores Swanson, younger brother, Eli Michael Swanson, first wife Diane Swanson, and his two oldest children Stephanie and Shane Swanson. Paul had a great love for the Salmon, Idaho area where he was born and

George Paul Swanson

spent his younger years. He enjoyed fishing on the Salmon River with his late wife Diane and friends, hunting, fishing, camping, and barbequing with his family, and providing service to the veterans in Lava Hot Springs. A luncheon for family and friends was held on November 25, 2023 between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. at the Lava Community Center in Lava, with military honors at 2 p.m. Cremation arrangements were under the care of Sims Funeral Home, Soda Springs, Idaho.

Kenneth J. Lund

June 15, 1949-October 26, 2023 Kenneth J Lund, better known as Ken or Kenny J, passed away Thursday, October 26 at the age of 71, after a long hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer, surrounded by his family and many friends. He was born in Brigham City, UT and moved to Soda Springs, ID at the age of 2. He was the son of Vernal J. Lund and Shirley Ann Lund. He graduated from Soda Springs High School in 1970 & attended college at ISU in Pocatello. He had 2 children, daughter Nicole Lund Armstrong, and son Shawn Lund. He has 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was safety foreman at Mark III until he retired. He then married the love of his life, Elaine Swain Lund in September, 2022. Anyone who knows Ken knows his love of music. At the age of 10 his only request for Christmas was a guitar. When Dad and Mom said they couldn't afford it, he was heartbroken, so they scrimped and saved and bought him an inexpensive guitar. Very soon it became a part of his anatomy. He was self taught & he continued to play better and better & very soon they bought him a nicer guitar. Over the years he added to his collection & ended up owning at least 10 different guitars including acoustic, electric, base, 12-string, etc. In his younger years he played in several different bands and paid his way in college. We all enjoyed endless hours together sitting around the campfire, at family gatherings & staying up late while he played his guitar, all of us singing along with the oldies & our favorite tunes. We all hated seeing those good times come to an end. Besides singing & playing guitar, he also put to music several of the poem's mom had written over the years. He loved outdoor

George Paul Swanson

adventures, hunting, fishing, camping, skiing, snow mobiling and in his later years golfing. We think he even enjoyed shoveling snow, although he never admitted it. He lived life to the fullest & anyone who wanted to join in was included in his adventures. If he wasn't doing things outdoors, he was in his shop doing his many projects, building furniture, making crosses, doing mechanics, or making improvements to his home. The old saying, 'Don't let any grass grow under your feet,' was an understatement for him. He is survived by his wife Elaine Swain Lund, mother Shirley Ann Lowe Lund, sister Kathy Lund Warren, brother-in-law Nathan Warren, daughter Nicole Lund Armstrong, son-in-law Darren Armstrong, son Shawn Lund, daughter-in law Nicole Lamb, 5 stepchildren, 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his father, Vernal J. Lund, sister, Sally Ann Lund & wife Vicki Lund. There was a celebration of his life at the Caribou Bible Church November 10th, 2023, at 1:00 p.m., the day prior to him turning 72. WE HATE CANCER

DEADLINE to submit items for CARIBOU COUNTY IS FRIDAY AT 4:00 P.M. C Y

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Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

Mary Tompkins

December 11, 1959 -November 3, 2023 Mary Tompkins passed peacefully in her sleep on Friday, 3 November 2023 in Soda Springs. Mary was born on 11 December 1959 in a small East Texas town to Mary Lou and Jack Jeans, and through all her adventures, it seems fitting that she went exactly the way she wanted to, with her dog, in her own place, in her bed, in Idaho, and in Peace. She will be missed by her family. Son Corey, grandsons Clayton and Anthony. Brother and Sister-in-law, Daniel and Paula Jeans, and their clan of nieces and nephews Lance. April, Angel, Susi, Julian John Daniel, Slade, Evelyn, Justin, Abel Amidee, Layla, Clark, Bruce, Ramona Olive, and Archer. And her cousins in Kentucky that she dearly loved, Doris and Robert Burr, and their family. Mary kept the rhythm of life to her own beat on her own drum, her grandfather "MC" Chapman Swearingen,

Mary Tompkins

taught her a love of the land that she cherished till her last days with us. She absolutely loved anything outdoors. Mary was a proud Alumni of Nederland High School where she excelled in sports and with Utah State and her degree in Physical Education. We'll see you in the Sunshine Mary

Joseph Merrill Hulse

August 26, 1938 - November 5, 2023 Our Amazingly talented husband, Father, grandfather, brother and friend, Joseph Merrill Hulse 85 of Soda Springs, Idaho passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, November 5th, 2023, with his sweetheart Linda by his side, and his faithful puppy Bear. Joe was born on August 26, 1938 in Central, Idaho to Merrill Weaver and Blanch Christensen Hulse. He grew up and attended school in Grace, Idaho. He graduated Grace High School and continued his education at Snow College, in Ephraim, Utah on a football scholarship. He loved Radio and became a “disc jockey” which brought him back to Soda Springs to work at KBRV Radio. He went to work later at Kerr McGee Chemical Corp. where he retired after 33 years. He loved hunting and fishing. He was a lover of music and had a beautiful voice. He loved golfing with all his friends and sometimes his wife. He also enjoyed keeping up with all the High School sports in the area. Joe was married to his high school sweetheart Marla Bowen on December 17, 1955. They were blessed with a daughter Valerie and later were blessed with a son Merrill Joe. Joe and Marla later divorced. Joe married Linda Cotton in Grace, Idaho at the home of Joe’s parents February 14, 2007. They were married 16 years when Joe passed. With this marriage came two step sons, Michael Meccico and Joseph Meccico. Joe is survived by his daughter Val-

NEW

Joseph Merril Hulse

erie (Mike) Arnold of Idaho Falls, ID, Merrill Joe Hulse of St. George, Utah, stepsons Michael (Jeri) Meccico of Harper, Texas and Joseph (Tari) Meccico of Kerrville, Texas and Jacksonville, North Carolina, 9 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren, his sister Marie Murray and sister Marilyn (Brock) Hurt and several nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents Merrill and Blanch Hulse, his brother Mark Hulse and his brother-inlaw, Craig Murray, one nephew, Cody Murray, three great nieces and two great nephews, great grandson, Azaria and great grandson Aiden McMurdo. Funeral services were held Monday, November 13, 2023 at Sims Funeral Home in Soda Springs, Idaho.

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Enterprise The Idaho

Caribou County's Newspaper Since 2024

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Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

Lady Cowboys end season NORTH GEM – After a great season in which the Lady Grizzlies compiled a 11-13 overall record, and a 9-6 record in the Rocky Mountain conference, their season ended with a loss to the Rockland Bulldogs, 25-38. Their great play over the season afforded the girls a chance to move on past the districts. During the first District matchup, the Lady Cowboys defeated Grace Lutheran, and then lost to Mackay. This was followed by a win North Gem hosted over Sho-Ban. The Lady Cowboys faced a “loser out” game against Rockland for third place, and came up a just short. The team was coached by Ken Christensen and Assistant Coached by Stephinie Scott. The team ended up fifth out of ten teams in the conference, and overall, Coach Ken Christensen felt that it was a positive season on the court. “We beat a team we hadn’t beaten before in Grace Lutheran, for one

February 15, 2024

NORTH GEM VS. ROCKLAND 1st 2nd 3rd 4th FInal North Gem 0 6 8 11 25 Rockland 13 9 10 6 38

Myken Rindlisbaker plays defense at the top of the key during the game against Rockland.

thing. We had a few returning seniors, and a lot of young girls who played great for us.” North Gem’s team was made up of: Indyana Hatch, Hayden Corta, Sage

Daniels, Katelyn Whiting, Myken Rindlisbaker, Kymerli Jensen, Mariah O’Brien, Shalyn Thompson, Dally Frandsen, Kaylin Jenkins, and Samantha Yost.

Hayden Corta goes up for two at the rim.

Grizzlies Begin Tournament Play

Jody Reeves

GRACE – On Monday night the Grace Grizzlies opened up district tournament play at Thunder Ridge High School. Before the district tournament could start however there was some unfinished business that needed to be taken care of to determine who the number one seed would be. This was settled Saturday evening in Grace. The Grizzlies hosted district rival the Butte County Pirates for the final regular season finale. The two teams were tied in the district entering Saturday night’s game. The winner of this game would earn the top seed in the upcoming district tournament while the loser would go in as the number two seed. In the small four team district this seemed like a small formality however with Alturas Prep dropping out of the tournament this meant that the number one seed would get a first round bye and the number two seed would have to turn around and play a dangerous Challis team just 48 hrs later. With it being senior night for Grace, combined with the bitter history of these two teams the gym was packed. Although these schools are rivals in all sports the intensity of the rivalry seems to elevate to another level for boy’s basketball. In recent years Grace has gotten the better of the Pirates, winning twelve of the last fourteen games. However Butte was able to get the victory in Arco earlier this season when they beat the Grizzlies by ten back in December. As things tipped off on Saturday things didn't look good for the Grizzlies early on. Butte came out as the aggressor and quickly jumped out to a 7-2 lead. Grace would take a second to catch their breath and calm their nerves as they would come roaring back passing the Pirates on the scoreboard and take a 19-12 lead to start the second quarter. As things got going in the second Grace would see a couple of their starters get into foul trouble and head to the bench. The quarter would feature lots of fouls and turnovers by

GRACE VS. BUTTE 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Grace 19 10 9 11 Butte 12 12 12 17

GRACE VS. CHALLIS 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Grace 14 15 18 7 Challis 3 4 13 10

each team as play began to get a little sloppy. The Pirates would cut into the Grizzly lead and head to halftime with a score of 29-24. The Grizzly struggles would continue in the third as they would be forced to call a timeout three minutes in, leading by just a single point. Things would continue to stay tight and low scoring with Grace entering the fourth leading by the slim margin of 38-36. Grace would call their next timeout at the 4:30 mark with the game tied at 42. The teams would then take turns calling timeouts while the scoring stayed close. Grace would get to a three point lead before another timeout and then Butte would go on a five point run taking the lead 49-47. Each team would score a basket and the time would tick down to under a minute. Grace, still trailing but running out of time, would need to start fouling. With their team fouls only at two the Grizz would need to foul fast. They would quickly get to the bonus but at the cost of Joe Clegg who would foul out in the closing seconds of the game. Butte would go two of four from the foul line in the last minute and get just enough of a lead to make the last second desperation shot by the Grizzlies futile. Grace loses a close one 5349. Perimeter defense was an issue for Grace as 30 of Buttes 53 points came from behind the arc. Scoring for Grace: K. Clegg-16, Lloyd-7, Jorgensen-7, Kimball-7, Smith-6, Sorenson-2, J. Clegg-2, Mathews-2. With the loss the Grizzlies would be the number two seed and face Chal-

Pictured academic honors recipients. Bottom row Challis recipients Top row Grace from left to right Easton Lloyd, Koby Rindlisbaker, Bennon Sorenson, Trevor Mathews, Landon Moss, Carson Reeves, Chase Smith, and Gavin Draper.

lis in the opening round of the district tournament. Before things got rolling Monday night the teams took a minute to recognize the academic honors conference players from each team. After a small ceremony and a quick photo op play got underway for the Grizzlies and the Vikings. Challis had done enough in conference play to make sure nobody was going to overlook them in the tournament. In the two regular season matchups between these two teams Grace had come away with large victories. However in both games the first half was very competitive as Challis even led going into the half in one of them. This time the Grizzlies were not going to leave the door open for the Vikings. Grace came out with a suffocating press right off the get go. Challis struggled to get the ball up the court and had several turnovers. Even with the Grizzlies shooting woes they were able to capitalize enough to get a 14-3 lead at the end of the first. The Grizz would not let up in the second and Challis would begin to get in foul trouble trying to slow down the fast pace that Grace was playing at. Again even with several missed shots on offense the Grizzly defense

was dominant in the first half and took a 29-7 lead at the break. The third period the pace would continue to be fast. The Grizzlies would make their fair share of mistakes and get in a little foul trouble of their own. Challis would have their best scoring quarter of the game but the size and speed of the Grizzlies still outpaced them and we headed to the fourth with Grace still leading 47-20. Grace would finally slow the game down a little in the fourth and with a thirty point lead Coach Lloyd would send in the backups. The last four minutes several different Grizzlies would get some opportunities to get on the floor for some playing time. Grace would come away with the 54-30 victory and advance in the district tournament. Scoring for Gace went as follows: K. Clegg-20, Lloyd-9, Kimball-6, C.Smith-6, Sorenson-4, Mathews-3, Jorgensen-2, Draper-2, Rindlisbaker-1, J. Clegg-1. Grace will now travel back to Thunder Ridge High School to face Butte County in the semi final game on Wednesday February 14th at 7:00 p.m.

Cutler Wins On Senior Night Jody Reeves

GRACE – On Friday night Grace hosted North Fremont, Ririe, and Soda Springs for some wrestling dual action. Grace would face NF and Ririe in the duals. Before the wrestling action got going though, it was senior night for the Grizzly’s lone senior wrestler Wyatt Cutler. Wyatt has been a stand out wrestler for Grace dating back to his little league days and is a reigning state champion. Wyatt was escorted out to center stage by his parents Wayne and Kenna Cutler. After the fanfare on the mat Wyatt made a special trip to the stands to give his grandma Janet Wheeler flowers and a big hug. After Wyatts moment in the spotlight we got to some wrestling action. Grace would start off taking on North Fremont. If you're not a wrestling fan you should be. It is the only sport you can watch where it is probably just as entertaining to watch the crowd as the competitors as they twist and turn in their seats trying to will the kids to move a certain way. Once again in these matchups the numbers game would have an effect on the team scoring but don't let that fool you into thinking Grace isn't full of wrestling talent. Scoring went as follows. C Y

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Grace 31 North Fremont 38

98-Younger (for), 106-Newby (dec 4-3), 113-Kimball (TF 15-0), 120-Hobbs (fall), 138-Eddins (TF 171), 152-Jorgensen (loss TF 15-0), 160-Balczewski (loss dec. 11-4), 170-Cutler (fall), 182-Robbins (loss fall). Exhibition 113-Lunt (dec. 9-2), 138-Eddins (TF 16-1)

Grace 33 Ririe 42

98-Younger (inj. time), 106-Newby (for), 113-Kimball (for), 120-Hobbs (fall), 138-Eddins (dec. 9-3), 152-Jorgensen (loss fall), 160-Balczewski (loss fall), 170-Cutler (fall), 182-Robbins (loss fall). Exhibition 120-Hobbs (fall), 120-Eddins (MD 13-1) 120-Jorgensen (loss dec. 9-5). A few of the Lady Grizzlies got in on the action as well. Newman for Grace was the only girl that had a match against NF. Unfortunately she wasn't able to get the win but battled hard. Against Ririe the Grizzlies had five girls participate.

Grace 12 Ririe 24

107-Ball (loss fall), 120-Eddins (fall), 126-Newman (loss fall), 145-Cloud (fall). Exhibition 107-Kendall (loss fall) 126-Newman (loss fall)

Senior wrestler Wyatt Cutler with his parents Kenna and Wayne. C Y

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February 15, 2024

Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

Cowboys Have Big Week NORTH GEM – The North Gem Cowboys capped off their regular season with a big win on Senior night. They started the night off by honoring their four senior basketball players Helber Langrus, Jack Perry, Mayson Jenkins, and Evan O’Brien as well as their two senior cheerleaders Journey Gunter and Alyson Reed. The Cowboys opponent would be district foe Grace Lutheran. Earlier in the season the Cowboys had handed the Royals a loss in Pocatello 57-44. Even though it was senior night it would be the sophomore Setser that would have the hot hand early in this one pouring in seven points in the first quarter helping propel the Cowboys to a first quarter lead of 11-5. From there the lead would just grow for North Gem. Coming out in the second quarter it would be Hayden that would heat up from behind the ark. Hayden would combine with senior Langrus to hit four shots from three point distance. The Cowboys would outscore the Royals 18-4 in the period bringing the halftime score to 29-9. The second half would see a much tighter game as the Royals would make a valiant effort to try to get back in the game. However the Cowboys would not be denied the victory and it would be senior O’Brien who would help seal the victory as he scored seven of his eleven points in the fourth. The Cowboys put together a real team effort as every player contributed in some form to get the victory 53-31. After the handshakes the players and student body met at midcourt to sing the school song and waive the Cowboy

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NORTH GEM VS. ROYALS 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Cowboys 11 18 13 11 Royals 5 4 11 11

NORTH GEM VS. MINERS 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Cowboys 12 13 33 3 Miners 7 7 10 10

left to right are seniors Journey Gunter, Alyson Reed, Helber Langrus, Jack Perry, Mayson Jenkins, and Evan O'Brien.

flag proudly led by senior Mayson Jenkins. Scoring for the Cowboys Hayden-20, O’Brien-11, Langrus-9, Setser-9, Perry-2, Hatch-2. After the big senior night win for the Cowboys they jumped right into district tournament play on Friday. The Cowboys would come into the tournament as the number three seed. Their first round opponent would be the Mackay Miners. These two teams met up twice during the regular season and split the series. North Gem won the first game at home clear back in December by a slim five point margin. In the rematch in Mackay it would be the Miners that would come out on top 61-55. Fortunately for the Cowboys they did enough in the rest of district play to earn the home court advantage for this important tourna-

ment game. Knowing the results of the two previous matchups the Cowboys knew they had to be prepared and play a complete game. That is exactly what they did. The Cowboys jumped out to a commanding 12-4 lead in the first. That lead would be narrowed slightly as the Miners would hit a three point basket late in the quarter bringing the score to 12-7. In the second the teams would start off trading baskets before Mackay would call a timeout with 5:37 left in the quarter. Out of the timeout things wouldn't change much as the defenses would go to work limiting scoring and Coach Corta would use a timeout leading 18-13. The timeout proved beneficial for the Cowboys as they were then able to push the score to 25-14 going into the halftime break.

In the third period of action the Cowboys would catch fire. Just two and a half minutes into the quarter they would go on a 9-3 run and would just increase the lead from there. Reeling, the Miners would use a timeout at the 3:36 mark to try to catch their breath and stop the Cowboy onslaught as North Gem’s lead had increased to 42-20. The Cowboys were not finished yet. North Gem would continue their fast paced play running the court and taking advantage of fast break opportunities. As the third quarter came to a close the Cowboys were up 58-24. The fourth quarter would see a running clock and the Cowboys would take their foot off the accelerator. North Gem cruises to a big victory in this one with a final of 61-34. Scoring for the Cowboys O’Brien-18, Hatch-13, Hayden-12, Setser-10, C.Yost-6, Langrus-2. The Cowboys advance in the tournament and will have to travel to number two seeded Watersprings on Wednesday February 14th.

Cards Finish Regular Season

Jody Reeves

SODA SPRINGS – The Cardinal men wrapped up the regular season with mixed results. On Tuesday the Cardinals traveled to Aberdeen to take on the Tigers. As this game kicked off the teams would match baskets back and forth keeping the game close. Towards the end of the first the Cardinals would gain some breathing room and finish the quarter with a 14-10 lead. Starting off in the second it looked like Soda would start taking control of the game as they pushed the lead to 18-12. Aberdeen wouldn't go away easily though as they made a run of their own getting back to within one point forcing Soda to take a timeout with about two and a half minutes left in the quarter. Things would stay tight and the game would get tied at 20. It looked as though that would be the score going into halftime but the Cardinals would tally up five points in the last fifteen seconds, including a beyond halfcourt buzzer beater by Hansen, and would take a halftime lead of 25-20. In the third period of play Caleb Thompson would heat up hitting some three’s causing the Tigers to panic as they began to force up ill advised shots early in their possessions. Good rebounding and tight defense by the Cardinals helped see the lead grow in the third. The Tigers wouldn't see their first field goal of the quarter until the last two minutes. The Cardinals would enter the fourth leading 40-24. In the fourth Soda Springs would stay in control of the game as the scoring would go back and forth. The Cardinals would spoil senior night for the Tigers as they walked away with the win by the score of 51-34. In their regular season finale the Cardinals would face off against the West Side Pirates. It was senior night and the gym was packed. After introducing all of the senior players and cheerleaders the floor was lined from one end to the other with them and their parents. It was a great sight to see so many of the senior class involved in activities. As for the game it would feature two evenly matched teams and plenty of drama and excitement. As things got underway the Cardinals came out playing quickly. Good defense that featured some big blocks got Soda Springs off to an early lead of eight points while holding the Pirates scoreless through the first four minC C Y Y

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CARDINALS VS. PIRATES 1st 2nd 3rd 4th OT Cardinals 13 12 8 13 2 Pirates 15 13 8 10 6

CARDINALS VS. TIGERS 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Cardinals 14 11 15 11 Tigers 10 10 4 10

Senior Destiny Dursteler performed during half time against West Side. Although it ended with an overtime loss, Tuesday's game against West Side was a thrill ride.

An intense game against West Side stayed close from the tip-off.

utes of play. The Cardinals would see the score reach 11-4 before the Pirates would mount a run of their own. A few late quarter miscues by the Cardinals would see their lead erased and end the quarter now trailing 15-13. Despite the Cardinals winning the rebounding battle, foul trouble would send West Side to the line enough that the Pirates would build their lead to 20-14. The Cardinals would call timeout and attempt to get some composure. The Cardinals would come out of the timeout and slowly climb back into the game cutting the deficit to

just a single point before giving up a late basket and go into the half trailing 28-25. Soda would come out of halftime and quickly grab the lead by one. For the next few minutes of game time the teams would trade baskets and leads several times. Some missed foul shots by the Cards would allow the Pirates to finish the quarter on a 6-2 run and enter the fourth quarter up 36-33. The fourth quarter would be full of excitement. West Side would hold the lead for the majority of the quarter but the Cards would be knocking on the door throughout. With about

two minutes left in regulation Soda would tie things up at 43 and West Side would call a timeout. The Pirates would come out of the timeout and hit a big three point basket taking the lead once again. Soda would continue to fight and with just under 30 seconds left would hit a three of their own tying things up once again. West Side would run the clock down to twelve seconds and call a timeout to set up a final shot but the Soda defense would get the takeaway with 2.4 seconds left and call a timeout of their own. The last second attempt would miss and we would head to overtime. The overtime period would start off with a defensive battle and things would remain tied at 48 with just one and a half minutes left. After yet another timeout the Cardinals would commit a turnover and foul a Pirate on the shot giving West Side an old fashion three point play and the lead. The Pirates would add one more foul shot and sneak out with the 52-48 win in overtime. The Cardinals will have to regroup quickly as district tournament play begins Tuesday. And who are the Cardinals opponents, none other than West Side? This should be a great game. The Cardinals have all the pieces to make a good tournament run. With their length, speed, good shooters, and all around athleticism they have a very well rounded team. If they put it all together they could be looking at a district title and a state birth. C C Y Y

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Idaho Enterprise|Caribou County

Lady Cardinals Going to State Jody Reeves

SODA SPRINGS – The Soda Springs Lady Cardinals will once again be heading to the state tournament in Boise this week. It may not be the path that the Cardinals wanted to take but they will look to make some noise and take another run at a state title. Soda Springs would have liked to go into the tournament as a district champion but just missed out on that opportunity as they took on a well matched Bear Lake team in the district championship game. That game took place last Wednesday on a neutral court in Dayton. The game would be a defensive battle early on with each team finding it difficult to get good looks at the basket. The first quarter would end in a low scoring 8-6 lead for the Cardinals. In the second the tough defensive battle would continue, however the Bears would be able to go on a 6-0 run while the Cardinals would only add three points in the quarter sending the teams to the locker room with Bear Lake leading 14-11. In the third the zone defense by each team would once again make scoring tough and lead to several jump balls as both sides tried to get the ball inside. When going inside didn't work

SODA SPRINGS VS. BEAR LAKE 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Soda Springs 8 3 9 13 Bear Lake 6 8 8 20

SODA SPRINGS VS. PANTHERS 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Cardinals 8 14 11 16 Panthers 5 10 14 9

both teams would force outside shots with little success. It was Garbett’s five points in the first half of the third that kept the Cardinals close trailing 18-16. Shortly after that the Cardinals would temporarily take the lead but ultimately the quarter would end with the Bears once again leading by a slim margin 22-20. The fourth quarter would see the scoring finally pick up. Each team would go on small runs and with 2:29 left in the game Bear Lake would call a timeout leading 32-29. Another timeout would be called one minute later with Soda now trailing 34-30. Soda Springs would eventually be forced to start fouling hoping the Bears would miss their shots and the Cardinals would be able to capitalize. Unfortunately, Bear Lake wouldn't miss and the Lady Cardinals would fall 42-33. After the district championship loss Soda Springs was forced into a playin game against West Jefferson. The winner of this match up would punch

their ticket to state while the loser would see their season end. This game took place on Saturday at Blackfoot High School. With all that was at stake in this game both teams were going to give their all to earn the victory. Whether it was nerves or the travel, both teams came out to a slow start and halfway through the first the Panthers would hold a slim 5-4 lead. Soda would make a buzzer beater shot and finish the quarter up 8-5. Continuing early in the second period both teams struggled to put the ball in the hoop and the score became tied at 8. In the second part of the quarter the scoring would finally pick up for the Cardinals and they would create some breathing room on the scoreboard. West Jefferson would make a late quarter run and we would head to halftime with a 22-15 Cardinal lead. In the third Soda Springs would try to pick up the pace and the Panther would quickly commit five fouls putting the Cardinals in the bonus just four minutes into the quar-

February 15, 2024

ter. The Panthers would then once again grab some momentum. With Soda Springs on their heels a little West Jefferson was able to capitalize on Cardinal fouls and close the gap to just a single point. A late three point shot would keep the lead for Soda Springs as they would enter the fourth up 33-29. The Cardinals would start shooting better and in the first four minutes of the final period Soda would outscore the Panthers 10-4. The Cardinals would look in control for the next few possessions as they would run the shot clock down, chewing up valuable time for the Panthers. Soda would make a couple of blunders and allow West Jefferson to get the score to 44-38. Soda would quickly recover and create a couple of turnovers and West Jefferson would start fouling to save the clock. The Lady Cards would convert on their foul shots and take their spot in the state tournament bracket with the final score of 49-38. With the play-in win the Lady Cardinals will enter the state tournament as the number six seed. Their first game will be Thursday at 7:00 p.m. They will face the three seed Cole Valley Christian at Kuna High School.

Lady Grizzlies Win District Title

Picture from left to right Coach Yost, Journey Gunter, Alyson Reed, Mariah O'Brien, Sage Daniels, Kymberli Jensen, Gracie Josephson, Shalyn Thompson, Sadie Daniels, Indyana Hatch, Kaylin Jenkins and Coach Barnes.

Lady Cowboys Compete at District Cheer Jody Reeves

NORTH GEM – On Friday, February 9th the North Gem Cowboy Cheerleaders traveled to Snake River High School to compete in the 5th District championship competition. In the sport of cheer the state does not differentiate the 1A and 2A classifications. This meant that North Gem, being one of the smallest schools in the district, would have to compete against schools that in some cases have 200 more students than they do, but this would not deter this squad who had been putting in months of hard work preparing for this competition. Coaches Yost and Barnes have put together one of the largest cheer squads North Gem has had in

recent memory. Ten girls may not seem like many, but for a school the size of North Gem, it is quite the accomplishment to get them all to put in the time and effort to pull off a successful performance. The Lady Cowboys competed in the pom category and earned the pride of their coaches. “These girls have worked so hard and represented North Gem with spirit and pride. Although we didn't qualify for state this year they can definitely hold their heads high” Coach Barnes stated. Though the competition was over the girls had more work to do before the day ended. They quickly made the trip back to North Gem where they cheered on the boys basketball team to a district win.

RMSHA season begins in Geneva, Idaho

RMSHA had their opening races this past weekend in Geneva Idaho. Roper Spencer (#26) and Deegan Mullen (#225) are two of the many racers from Caribou county that will C Y

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be competing this year. This weekend they will be headed to Afton Wyoming. Photos by Cash Spencer

The District Champion Lady Grizzlies!

Jody Reeves GRACE – There are a few things you can count on in Southeast Idaho during the month of February. It will still be winter despite any false spring. Valentine's Day will come whether you celebrate it or not. And the Lady Grizzlies will play the Lady Pirates for the district title. These two teams have met for the district title every year since Coach Christensen took over the program six years ago for the Grizzlies. Thursday night the Grizzlies and the Pirates would once again face off for the district title at Thunder Ridge High School. This game for the district title was everything Grace fans have come to expect from such a well coached talented group of girls. Early on in this one Smith was much more assertive under the basket than the previous meeting between these two teams. She has been the focus of many opponents' defensive schemes. Smith was able to attack the basket putting in some good shots and drawing fouls. The Pirates appeared to have the strategy of trying to wear down the Grizzlies as they were trying to play at a very fast pace and subbing frequently. However Grace’s length, ball pressure, and active hands created several turnovers and the Lady Grizz jumped out to a 13-4 lead before the first Butte timeout. After the timeout the Grizzlies kept up the pressure and closed the quarter leading 17-8. As the second period got under way it was Butte who grabbed a little momentum and cut into the lead making the score 17-12. Coach Christensen would put the starters back in and the fast pace game continued as Butte continued to try to wear the Grizzly starters down. The Lady Grizz were up to the challenge and held up to the pressure. Smith did pick up a second foul and headed to the bench but Grace was back in control leading 24-14. After a pair of timeouts, one by each team the quarter would come to a close and the Grizzlies would take a 29-14 lead into the locker room.

GRACE VS. PIRATES 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Grizzlies 17 12 10 15 Pirates 8 6 10 9

The third quarter would be the most competitive of the evening but it wouldn't be pretty. Both Andersen and Smith would pick up their third personal fouls and be forced to spend some time on the bench. The teams would trade baskets back and forth and each team would add 10pts to their totals. Starting off the final quarter Grace came out sensing how close they were to another district title. The Grizzlies quickly went on a 5-0 run and Butte took a timeout with just under 5 min left in the game. Butte came out of the timeout trying to press the Lady Grizzlies, but to no avail. Grace easily beat the press and scored some easy buckets. Now it was Butte who looked worn down and tired. After letting his seniors run most of the 4th quarter and build the lead to 54-28 Coach Christensen went to his bench and got the younger girls some court time. From there Butte would put in a couple of baskets but the Lady Grizz would reign supreme and once again be district champions with a final of 54-33. Smith would come up big for the Grizzlies as well as Jorgensen who put in some quality time when Smith was on the bench. Scoring for the Grizzlies Smith-13, Straatman-9, Jorgensen-9, J.Christensen-8, Yost-7, Stoddard-4, Andersen-2, K.Christensen-2. The Lady Grizzlies will enter the state tournament as the overall number one seed. They will face eighth seeded Rimrock at 2:00 p.m. at Columbia High School. With wins over the number two and number four seeds in the tournament already this season Grace has high expectations. After last year's disappointing round one loss however the Grizzlies will not be overlooking anyone as they make a run at the state title.

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