Caribou County | April 30, 2026

Enterprise The Idaho

CMC Health Fair brings providers and patients together

Over the weekend, the County Event Center in Grace was the site of Caribou Medical Center’s annual Health Fair. The Health Fair, which dates back at least as far as the Caribou Memorial Hospital days, is a designed to allow residents of the county and surrounding areas a chance to meet with providers from the hospital, obtain discounted lab services, and see the range of health care services offered by CMC. In addition, a number of local vendors and service providers were also on hand.

HR Assistant Hallie Monk was on site at 5:00 a.m. to start setting up, and noted that by the time they opened at 7:00 “there was a line clear to the door for labs!”

Michelle Argyle, patient navigator, was one of the first people visitors met when entering the Health Fair. Argyle is a “patient navigator,” which is a position created to help guide patients through the health care process and coordinate between the potentially many providers that may be involved in a course of treatment. She started with CMC as a floor nurse, and then moved into case management.

“I work in case management in navigation. When a primary care provider sends a referral out to a specialist, then that order comes to us and we call

everyone and help them get scheduled and follow along to make sure they get what they need. We answer questions, almost like their own personal nurse. We can help them with almost anything in the hospital, and if we can’t we know who can, and we point them in the right direction. We make sure things aren’t falling through the cracks, essentially.”

The three navigators each work with the primary care provider and all of their patients. “That way, we are focused on that one doctor, and everybody they see,” Argyle said.

The Fair included services that most people are likely familiar with, or at least aware of, as well as a few that may be less obvious.

Shawna Morgan and Tiffany Taylor, for instance, are “swing bed coordinators.” I am not ashamed to admit that I assumed this referred to some sort of amazing therapeutic bed that doubled as a recreation device, but it does not. A “swing bed” is a bed which is set aside to serve the needs of patients in a variety of situations. County hospitals are allowed a handful of beds each that they can designate as “swing beds” for the purposes of insurance billing. “Usually it lasts from five to seven days. It’s for strengthening, physical therapy, occu-

pational therapy, IV antibiotics, more time to get stronger after surgery or need wound care,” Morgan said.

The bed is considered an in-patient bed with skilled nursing. “We offer it in the hospital so they can stay there instead of somewhere else.”

“This kind of event is important to do locally, to make sure people know what is available right here in the area,” CMC CEO Kent Loosle said, by way of reiterating the point. “It’s great to do it here in the community we serve.” The Event Center made for a particularly good place to emphasize the local nature of CMC services, considering the upcoming Open House for the Grace Clinic, which is scheduled for July 13. “We’re waiting until after the Fourth of July, but not too long after…” Loosle laughed.

Lab services were the focus of attention for many of the attendees at the Fair, and a range of panels were offered for discounted prices during the Fair. Those prices will extend through May and can be obtained on site at the Hospital. Comprehensive Health Profiles are $35, and include a range of health information that can be used to assess various health risks and provide

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Spring Cleaning on the Trails

During a busy weekend, the nonprofit GOAL (Get Outside And Live) sponsored a Trail cleanup day at the Kelly Park trails that brought out a number of people to help get the trails in shape for spring. It was Celebrate Trails Day, as it so happens, and there are plenty of reasons to do so in Caribou County, which has a trail network that many places would be jealous of to go along with its wildland, wetland, and water system ecology.

The Kelly Park trails had been marked for cutting and removal last week in order to coincide with the planned “Cardinal Cleanup” day. The planned day was extremely cold and windy and the event was rescheduled to May 7 from 2:00 to 4:00. The public is invited to join local students as they clean up the local parks and city on that day.

GOAL board members Chris Gonzalez, Sally Jensen, and Misti Newby met at Kelly Park to direct cleanup activities, along with Dr. Greg Jensen, Crystal Alonzo, and a number of young helpers.

Since its inception in Caribou County, GOAL has worked to promote exactly what its name suggests—getting Outside and Living life to the fullest. The areas around Caribou County are replete with places to go and things to do for the recreation oriented, and GOAL has tried to encourage people to seek them out.

Over the summer, GOAL sponsored an event which encouraged people to look for plaques that had been located in accessible but wild areas of Grace, Bancroft and Soda Springs and post their pictures on the GOAL

Facebook page. In the immediate future, GOAL will be hosting a “Soda Springs Bicycle Tour.” The tour will start at Octagon Springs at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 9. This will be in addition to the monthly bike challenges you can find

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Thwarted attack at WHCA Dinner

The annual White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) dinner at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C. was the site of an attempted security breach. The event was attended by President Donald Trump, senior government officials, journalists, and other public figures.

According to authorities, a 31-year-old suspect from California approached a security checkpoint near the ballroom while armed with multiple weapons, including a shotgun and handgun. Officials have identified the alleged perpetrator as Cole Thomas Allen. He reportedly forced his way past initial screening and discharged his weapon before being subdued by law enforcement. At least one federal agent was struck by gunfire but was protected by body armor and is expected to recover. No fatalities were reported. The suspect was taken into custody at the scene and later hospitalized for minor injuries.

President Trump and other attendees were evacuated as a precaution, and the event was ultimately canceled. Investigators are examining the suspect’s motives, though the full details remain under investigation.

The incident has prompted renewed discussion about political violence and security at high-profile public events in the United States. Allen was charged with a number of crimes on Monday.

Missing man’s body discovered near Willow Flat Authorities in Preston, Idaho reported that a 40-year-old man from Utah who had been missing was found deceased in a mountainous area near Willow Flat. According to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, the man was reported missing on Saturday by his family after he allegedly made comments indicating possible self-harm.

Later that day, the family located his vehicle in Franklin County, prompting a search effort involving deputies and search and rescue teams. The search continued until Saturday evening and resumed Sunday morning. The man’s body was discovered around midday on Sunday.

Officials stated that no foul play is suspected. The man’s identity has not been publicly released, and his body was transferred to the county coroner later that day.

“Geofencing” before Supreme Court

A case before the U.S. Supreme Court examines the use of “geofence warrants” and access to location data from Google in a 2019 bank robbery investigation in Virginia. Police initially could not identify a suspect but later obtained aggregated cellphone location data showing devices near the crime scene. This led to an arrest and conviction after evidence and a confession were obtained, and Okello Chatrie was sentenced to over 11 years in prison.

The appeal argues that geofence warrants violate Fourth Amendment protections, relying in part on the precedent set in Carpenter v. United States (2018), which required warrants for certain cellphone location records. The government contends users voluntarily share location data with tech companies.

Lower courts upheld the warrant, but the case highlights broader debates over privacy, digital surveillance, and law enforcement access to large-scale location databases. Legal experts note the outcome could affect how courts treat digital data from phones and other connected devices.

This year’s Construction Combine was a little different than in past years. For one thing, the Combine is no longer directly connected to the CEWT program at Idaho State University. As a result of funding and allocation issues that are affecting many aspects of life these days, some aspects of the project have changed.

Annie Harrison-Quinton and Steve Quinton, who have been part of the Combine for many years, are now the primary organizers.

Home Depot it still involved in a major way, and provided both the location as well as many of the materials used in the construction of sheds for veterans, which is ultimately the practical outcome of the event. Local contractors and businesses are also still involved in a big way, with Nathan Broadhead of Amerititle one of the many on hand last week. “It’s so good to get kids introduced to the trades,” Broadhead said. “It shows them where they can go in that direction.”

Students from Soda Springs High School were among those that spent the first day of the Combine meeting local contractors, and learning some of the skills involved in putting together a finished shed. Driving skid steers, using nailguns, roofing basics and more occupied the instruction.

According to Annie Harrison-Quinton the program has an extremely high job placement rate, and gives students a great chance to network with local businesses they may not have initially thought of contacting.

“If we’ve helped one or two kids, then we’ve succeeded,” she said. “But we’ve helped a lot more than that!” For her, it boils down to four main things, “Community, Contractors, Kids, and Veterans.”

The focus on veterans brings up another thing that

hasn’t changed, which is Dave Pristupa, who coordinates the veterans to whom the sheds are given.

Since last year, Pristupa has had his schedule altered a bit as a result of being elected mayor of Grace.

“Luckily, there is no council meeting this week,” he laughed, “or I’d need to leave earlier to get there.”

One other thing that was different this year was the frigid temperatures and high wind. In the past, late April had been almost perfect for outdoor construction. This year, there were a few more warm up trips between. The temps were low enough that several schools, including Soda Springs, did not make the return trip for the second day. Nonetheless, it was still a unquie learning experience.

School is ideally a place where students acquire the skills they will need to make them successful throughout the rest of their lives. While that includes many concepts that can seem abstract at the time—critical thinking, analysis, group work, organization, problem solving, geometry—the Construction Combine gives students a way to directly see those concepts in action as they work together to construct a set of sheds. For some, the experience leads to a career choice. For others, it still opens their eyes to the possibility.

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insight into a person’s current state of health. Additional services were offered as take-home-return tests or additional blood draw analysis.

“Awesome morning!” Erika Dannelly, director of Development and Marketing said. “This has been the perfect place for it.”

There were a number of other familiar faces the Fair, with a range of connections to local health care.

Shari Moulton and Deena Garbett were on had with their healthier ice cream, a huge hit among guests. The machine mixes fresh fruit directly into the desert on demand, and comes out perfectly. “Sweets n Swirls” is a mobile endeavor at the moment, but the two are in the early stages of figuring out how to expand in the future.

Representative Mike Veile was joined by his wife Shelly and supporter Jackie Barthlome to discuss issues with voters.

County EMS was on hand to answer questions about emergency services in the county.

Jim and Tallan McCullouch were there to talk about Get Outside And Live, a non-profit located within the county that promotes healthy outdoor recreation.

Afton Marowelli and “Fresh Baked Sourdough” were on the scene with a range of baked goods and other items.

Soda Smiles, enHabit Home Health, Home Helpers, Southeastern Idaho Public Health, and many other representatives filled the morning with a lot of information for the flocks of visitors who made it to the Event Center.

The current economic and legislative landscape is one that is affecting rural hospitals like it is affecting all the other sectors of public life. In coming months, we plan to look into how some of the larger environmental issues are likely to affect Caribou Medical Center directly.

As the first point of medical contact for many in the community, CMC

serves an irreplaceable function within Caribou County. Not only that, but it is also one of the largest employers in the area, and a fundamental pillar of the community. There are few people in the area who don’t know someone who either works at the hospital or one of its clinics, or utilizes their services. Hallie Monk captured the attitude of the employees at the Fair, with “CMC is a great place to work—amazing people. I love it there!”

At last week’s meeting, the Soda Springs School District #150 official named L.T. Erickson as the new superintendent of schools. Erickson will replace Superintendent Scott Muir, who has accepted a position in the Aberdeen School District after 5 years in Soda Springs.

L.T. Erickson was previously the director of Federal Programs and School Safety and Security in the San Juan School District in Utah, where he oversaw district safety and security, and was the executive director of the district’s education foundation.

He has also served Director of Secondary Programs in the Twin Falls School District, Junior High Principal and Director of Federal Programs and Technology in the Snake River District, Assistant Principal and AD in the American Falls School District, and teacher in Cassia County School District. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership, a master’s in education leadership, and a bachelor’s in mathematics teacher education.

While Erickson is new to the area, residents had a chance to hear from him at a public candidate open house held earlier in the month.

Asked what he would do to increase trust in the school district as the new superintendent, Erickson raised the importance of transparency between the school district and the citizens. “Taking time to listen is very important,” he said.

While not binding, of course, it’s worth noting that at the forum, Erickson was asked about a number of issues, including school consolidation, which was raised specifically in regards to the potential for reducing costs for the three districts. He acknowledged the difficult nature of the question, but noted that “I’ve been around Idaho long enough to know that communities love their schools, and athletics, no matter how big they are. As far as consolidation, there are benefits but love of community schools is very important. Finan-

cially, it probably makes sense, but for communities it doesn’t.”

Erickson also discussed the idea that “rigor” is built up system-wide, and that if values and concepts are shared vertically throughout the school system, it creates a “team approach” to increasing academic and behavioral rigor.

In terms of class size, he noted that the smaller the better, and that he would work to try to make them as focused as possible.

Erickson will take over stewardship of the district during a particularly rough time for education funding. Nationally, economic forecasts are difficult to make as a number of international situations make market and resource predictions highly speculative. Statewide, budget costs across the board have put enormous pressure on education at all levels, with higher education facing large tuition increases as pre-school and elementary programs face large cuts to program funding.

Facilities are an especially important concern moving forward for SSSD 150, as a recent bond issue that would have funded a new school building was rejected by voters as potentially too large of a financial burden.

Issues outside that related to program funding, staffing, and a host of other concerns will also need to be addressed in short order.

City

Council Soda Springs

4/15

The council met for a regular meeting, with a number of items on the agenda including the beginning of the Highway 30 project.

Project Updates

Director Squires discussed the peeling paint and crumbling concrete on the exterior front of the Enders building. $3,940 is the local contractor cost to restore/repair it.

On the north side there is a gap between the building and the sidewalk where rain can get into the basement. A silicon seal could help prevent that, for $644. “Anything we can do to preserve it,” Councilman Carpenter said.

The trim coating will be the same color. “We need to take care of the asset,” Councilman Larsen added.

“We’re trying to market the building and I think it looks horrible that the paint is peeling off,” Director Squires said. Repairs were authorized.

2nd S. Project

ITD has communicated that they plan to begin traffic control on or about the 27th of April.

Director Squires talked to everyone on the west side about the construction plans and the service line work. The majority of those contacted are opting to replace their sewer services. The agreements are signed and dated. “It should be much cleaner than the last one, I hope,” Squires said, referring to the Main Street project completed last year.

The staff has made a list and emailed everyone on the list to make sure they are in communication as the project goes forward.The council discussed other things they learned from the Main St project that they should make sure to keep in mind for this one.

S 2nd E boring is scheduled for the 18th of May. The water line and RV dump will be out during the bore. There will be access to dump, but there won’t be water.

The upper trails on Ledge creek are sanded and ready to go. The parking lot should be done and ready to go by the end of next week. The tree planting part will take a while longer. It is accessed from the Bailey Creek road, and a 100 to 200 foot parking area will be established. They blended

the white sand with silica sand, since the white is soft and doesn’t compact well. Vaughn Smith did the construction work.

Repairs at the rear of the Enders. A streetlight was broken after being backed over. The light is over. The light is rare, but the company that made it is still in business. It is essentially a made to order light.

2026-5 Resolution Financial Policies establishing financial policy for the city was passed. This is basically to put the city in a good position for applying for grants.

2026-6 Revision of utility collection and disconnect. This clarifies what the city does in regard to these issues, and it also passed.

2026-7 AIC Procurement purchasing policy. They need a policy in place that says they follow the state’s procurement statute.

Dept Reports

City Planning and Zoning recommend that the Parks dept be allowed to locate shipping containers to be placed near the ice rink in order to store the rink materials over the summer so that they last longer. Shipping containers in city limits require a Conditional Use Permit.

Sunrise Engineering proposed a plan for executing a grant for an energy conservation study the city had been awarded. They decided to use it for a power study. The study has to be completed by September, so they need to get it going now. The study will look at ways to make the system more efficient, and anticipate what would happen as a result of growth impacts on the grid.

4CASI

Molly Besaris is paid through the city and county to the tune of $6K. She is asking for $500 extra as a result of other sources of funding being reduced this year.

Mayor Gritton stated, “I feel compelled to offer a comment in support. In working with her, she puts in a lot of hours to support our community and make it better. Molly does some incredible work for our community.”

Approved for $3,500 from the city. This was also passed by the county.

Soda Springs Open Mic Looks Ahead to a Vibrant Summer Season

Local organizers Amber Torgesen and her cousin, David Torgesen, will appear before the Soda Springs City Council on May 6, 2026, to propose the continued support and evolution of the beloved Soda Springs Open Mic.

With a vision of expanding community engagement, the pair is proposing to move Open Mic outdoors for the summer months, hosting the event in one of Soda Springs’ local parks. In addition to live performances, the proposal includes inviting licensed, self-operated food trucks to join the gatherings—creating a lively, welcoming space for residents and visitors alike.

If approved, Open Mic will take place every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., running from June through September. Organizers hope to return to the historic Enders Hotel lobby in the fall, continuing the tradition in its indoor home.

Open Mic remains a volunteer-driven effort. It takes a team to bring this dream to fruition. Amber, David and Dustin Christensen are dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and family-friendly platform for creative expression. Musicians, poets, storytellers, and artists of all kinds are encouraged to take part and share their talents with the community.

“There’s something special about

gathering together—especially outdoors—to celebrate local creativity,” organizers shared. “Adding food vendors and warm summer evenings makes it even more inviting.”

Community members are also encouraged to get involved by sharing testimonials about what Open Mic means to them. Submissions can be sent via email to ambercliechty@ gmail.com or posted on the Soda Springs Open Mic Facebook page.

As the proposal heads to City Council, organizers are hopeful that this next chapter will bring even more energy, connection, and creativity to Soda Springs.

Highway 30/2nd South Update

MAYOR PAUL GRITTON, SODA SPRINGS

I was contacted last week by the Idaho Department of Transportation who provided a bit of an update which I wanted to relay.

Soda Springs will likely see traffic control placement for construction possibly beginning on Monday April 27th. On Wednesday the 29th it is predicted initial construction work could start. Director of City Services Squires has contacted those property owners affected regarding their sewer service line replacement. Those affected by the sewer service line replacement issue are west of the Main Street & 2nd South/Hwy 30 intersection.

As construction work progresses over the coming weeks, I will do my best to make sure needed updates are communicated. If anyone has questions regarding the project, contact Director Squires at Soda Springs City Hall, 208-547-2600.

A section of South 2nd East will very soon see construction activity as well. This work involves a water line from near 2nd South going north on S 2nd East, under the railroad tracks and near Hooper Ave. Affected businesses are the UPS distribution center, Dave's Tackle and Laundromat, The Liquor Store. Director Squires has contacted those affected. Let us know if you have questions.

NOW HIRING!

The Caribou County Senior Center is hiring a part time cook. Fun, part time cooking. Hours are Wednesdays and Fridays from 7 am to 2 pm and some prep work on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Pay starts at $13/hr. Come in for an application Tues – Fri from 9-4.

County Commission meeting 4/27

The Board of County Commissioners met for a regular meeting on April 27.

Road and Bridge Kevin McLain stated that some of the Bridge Closed barricades have been vandalized, or at least moved, by unknown people at the Chesterfield location where they had been placed. Potentially the issue is related to residents moving the barricades for passage, but there is no definite evidence one way or the other.

The bridge is being evaluated by engineers as far as what can be done to replace or fix it. It may be possible that the part of the Portneuf that runs under it can be classified as a canal, which could increase options.

The evaluation is underway. Box culverts, a stiff-legged bridge or full replacement are some of the possibilities.

A motion to approve a bid from Brad Skinner for the Construction of a 60x60 shed at the Road and Bridge for $131K from out of the budget was approved. This shed is for dry storage of materials.

Eagle Rock blasting was approved for 35,000 tons of rock.

The price of materials at the state pits has been raised, and a new agreement was signed.

The New Mineral price agreement was also signed.

DEQ Representatives from the Department of Environmental Quality spoke to the County Commissioners by way of providing an update. “Our real focus is on helping facilities find compliance,” they said.

In the county, a drinking water grant for $30K, one for Soda Springs, and one for Bailey Creek have recently been awarded.

Bancroft recently closed a grant for wastewater treatment.

A number of loans and grants totaling 7 million dollars were discussed.

DEQ hosts a booth at the Caribou County Fair every year.

Nutrien is reclaiming/capping the East Mill Dump. Caldwell Canyon just received a notice to proceed.

Commissioner Somsen was appointed to the abandoned mine panel. This covers mines that do not have a responsible party attached to them. There is an “orphaned mine” list, which attempts to determine whether there is active ownership of mines that are believed to be abandoned. “Your county is fortunate that so many people who are responsible for the mines have stepped up to the plate,” Katy Bergholm from DEQ said.

Wastewater Remediation Manager Doug Tanner spoke to the commissioners about some of his projects. They include solid waste, remediation from spills, leaking storage tanks, emergency response to spills, grant coordination, slag disposal, and complaint investigations. “For the most part, my days are spent speaking trash.” He noted that the cooperation between the DEQ and the county landfill are productive and positive.

Landfills are no longer regulated by the Health District. This was due to an attempt to eliminate redundancy.

Commissioner McCullough asked about what the status of solar panel disposal was. The answer, essentially, was there is not an especially good system in place yet.

Judge Aaron Thompson

Aaron Thompson, Magistrate Judge in Bannock County, spoke to the county commissioners. He has served as a civil litigator for 18 years, as well as magistrate judge in Bannock county for the last 8 years. He is currently challenging District Judge Cody Brower for his position in the upcoming election.

“That district court position is extremely important to this community. If I am elected, I am going to have the honor of moving to Caribou County and be a member of your community.”

Judge Thompson wanted to introduce himself to the county commissioners, and outline some of his pri-

orities for the position.

He stressed his belief that a judge in the district position should be involved in a treatment court. “I am a firm believer in treatment courts,” he said, explaining that he feels they ultimately lessen the tax burden. When potential offenders are rehabilitated, they tend to stay out of the justice system.

He is also the statewide coordinator of Guardianships and Conservatorships, and emphasized the importance of those roles in the community. “Grandparents are raising kids. It takes a special person to act as a guardian.”

He further noted his positive relationship with law enforcement and commitment to “an effectively and efficiently run” courtroom. “It’s not easy for constituents to come to court,” he said.

As of press time, Thompson and Brower were scheduled to speak at a Candidate Forum at Tigert Middle School on Tuesday, which we will report on next week.

Aid for Friends Representatives from Aid for Friends spoke to the county commissioners as part of an effort to speak to counties outside of Bannock, where they are based, for support. The shelter does not receive a great deal of funding from the state or HUD. “We are the Southeast Idaho entry point,” Director Michelle Polette stated. “We do serve quite a few people from Caribou County,” she noted.

They have two fundraisers a year, but their funding is limited. Bannock County commissioners used to provide funding, but have cautioned that they may not be able to.

“Our shelter is a 90 day program. We do case management with them, and take care of their immediate needs so they can find housing, or a job. Our goal is to get them into permanent housing. Our immediate need is our emergency shelter. We are the only shelter around that will serve single men, women, and families in the same location.

Commissioner Mathews asked what their capacity was. 38 men, 38 women, 8 family rooms for 7 people each.

Commissioner Somsen asked whether the Opioid settlement funds could be used for this.

Commissioner Somsen moved to donate $2000 from the opioid fund to Aid for Friends., which passed.

Public Hearing

Invasive Species Ordinance 202603. The hearing was opened. This will add the noxious weeds Russian Thistle and Kochia to the list used by the county.

Hearing was closed with no comments from the public.

The ordinance passed, with Commissioner McCullough voting nay.

Planning and Zoning

2026-04. A lot on Gunnell road, discussed in the previous commission meeting, will be rezoned from ag to low density residential. Commissioner Somsen noted that he felt the rezone was actually a move to unify the zoning in the area, rather than creating a “spot zoning” problem. “If we are going to grow, that is the direction.”

Oregon Trail Marina does not have irrigation rights. Options for obtaining water rights in order to use the pumphouse were discussed.

Rowdy Larkins – Buildings

The Event Center has been paying internet at the Annex building, which is $54 a month. The question is whether they wanted to discontinue the service for now, and re-install it later once they fill the building.

Coroner Batterton already has a secured network, so any additional tenants were the ones that would be affected.

The elevator is down for potentially several weeks. All new electrical boards will need to be purchased. The most recent elevator breakdown is causing headaches for the upcoming election.

Simplot

Simplot’s Dan Darlington and Jared Klinger spoke to the commissioners about projects.

Timber Creek road is open for the season. “A lot of questions we’ve been asked lately are about the war,” Darlington said. “It is a stress, and fertilizer is stressed right now, but Simplot is in a great place to weather the storm.”

The North Trail Canyon road and Slug Creek road were discussed. Various pipe and road projects will be taking place. There will be flaggers and a one lane restriction during the process.

There are no revisions to the longterm plans for end of life at Smoky, which will wind down through the next 15 years, and about 5 years of overlap to the next one.

July 9 or July 7 will be a site tour for officials from Caribou, Bear Lake, and Lincoln County.

Senior Center

ShaLayne Bartschi from the Senior Center spoke to the commissioners with the quarterly update.

“Not too many changes,” she said. The Senior Center is still looking for a part time cook, but has not had a lot of applications. The position is around 20 hours a week.

A quote for work on the garage (adding insulation) was discussed for $5600. This is within the budget for the center.

Sheriff Mabey

The sewer line in front of the sheriff’s office was discussed.

The sheriff attended a dam failure drill involving the Blackfoot reservoir. The sheriff noted that there is not a secondary evacuation route in place for residents at the dike area.

Continuing to work on PacifiCorp and the sheriff by way of an MOU with the State of Idaho. There will be a meeting during the week to discuss the issue.

Eric Hobson – EMS

“Obviously we had a very warm, very weird winter,” Hobson noted. Last Monday, Gov. Little declared a drought disaster for all 44 counties. NWS said that the snow melt is running about a month ahead of time. There is no way to quantify ground water.

A declaration for the county was prepared by Hobson. The declaration serves the purpose of allowing different Farm Service and USDA programs to provide aid to the county.

According to Hobson, since the governor declared an emergency that means that the county is already technically in disaster status. The county declaration would constitute additional support for the extent of the emergency.

The timing of the declaration was discussed.

Hobson was given an outlook from NWS of 30% less moisture than usual through July.

Resolution 2026-04 for Emergency Disaster Declaration for Drought was passed. It will be active until December for auto-expiration, but can be changed or modified up until them.

Hobson also attended the emergency meeting for the dike/dam at Blackfoot reservoir.

There are some homes that would be threatened if the dike failed.

Evacuations would be possible, as an event that caused the dike to fail would be preceded by rising waters in the leadup.

Aaron Cook

Cook reported that the county was in compliance with its assessments and appraisals. The county’s appraisal of various property ratios is evaluated on a recurring basis.

America 250 on Main Street

On Thursday, May 7 at 6:30 pm an America 250 celebration will take place in front of the Courthouse and library amphitheater. There will be musical performances by David Torgesen and the HS and MS musicians. Guest speakers include Bob Geddes and Paul Gritton, as well as appearances by the Spuddy Buddies. There will be crafts and a free wagon ride.

The event is sponsored by the City of Soda Springs, Community Schools, Rotary Club, and VFW. Flag raising will take place in front of the courthouse.

SENIOR CITIZENS’ CORNER May 2026

May 2026 Nutrition Article

With warmer weather and sunnier days ahead, let's get out there and soak up some Vitamin D. The sun provides us with vitamin D and can help us feel happier. Vitamin D helps reduce levels of depression and regulates the mood. Having adequate amounts of Vitamin D can also help our bodies to retain Calcium, which is essential for bone maintenance.

Sources of Vitamin D include: Sun, Fish, Eggs, Dairy products that have been fortified with Vitamin D.

Seasonal foods in May

● Pineapple

● Peas

● Mangos

● Strawberries

Nutrition Counseling

Free MNT (Medical Nutrition Therapy) services available in person, or via telephone with our registered dietitian Vanessa (habla Espanol), services also available in Spanish. Ask your center staff for details today!

• Please reach out to our site for help with the following:

o New Medical Diagnosis i.e. cancer, diabetes, difficultyswallowing, weight loss, altered taste, fatigue, etc.

o Food resources- Food banks, pantries, programs, etc.

o Menu planning and recipe ideas

o Budgeting

Caribou County Senior Citizens' Menu

Every meal served with Juice/Milk/Coffee *Birthday Cake and Ice Cream is served in-house only!

May 1 - Tequila Lime Shrimp w/Tortilla, Cucumber Lime Salad, Grapes, Spanish Rice, Mexican Wedding Cake

May 6 - Sloppy Joes, Pasta Salad, Peaches, Cookies, Potato Chips

May 8 - Chicken Roll Ups, Asparagus, Fruit Salad, Dream Cheesecake

May 13 - Chicken Tenders w/ Mashed Potatoes, spinach, Mandarins, Sourdough Bread, Butter Pecan Cookie

May 15 - Reubin Casserole, Green Salad, Juice, Oatmeal Bread, Birthday Cake and Ice Cream

May 20 - Baked Spaghetti, Green Salad, Pears, Bread Sticks, Nutella Cheesecake

May 22 - Chicken Teriyaki w/Rice, Broccoli, Pineapple, French Break, Lemon Bar

May 27 - Ham and Bean Soup, Bananas, Rolls, Caramel Cake

May 29 - Meatloaf w/Baked Potatoes, Green Beans, Apple Sauce, Dilly Break, Berry Pretzel Dessert

Seasonal Fruit Salad with Honey Poppy Seed Dressing

Directions Place fruit in large bowl, mix lemon or lime juice, honey and poppy seeds in a small bowl. Mix into fruit. Store in refrigerator. Optional substitutes, raspberries, grapes, pineapple

BRAIN TEASERS

EVENT CALENDARS

SODA SPRINGS CARIBOU COUNTY

May 1 - Friday

BB Districts

Track @ Brad Matthew Invitational (Declo)

MS Track @ Malad

Thirkill Elementary Kindergarten

Registration

May 2 - Saturday

BB Districts

May 3 - Sunday

Presbyterian Services

Caribou Bible Church Services

Catholic Mass (8:30am)

Open Arms Church Services

LDS Services

Hope Lutheran Church

May 4 - Monday

SB Districts

May 5 - Tuesday

SB Districts

Track Districts @ Soda Springs

May 6 - Wednesday

City Council Meeting 5pm

SB Districts

Thirkill BOGO Book Fair 4-6pm

Track Districts @ Soda Springs

May 7 - Thursday

Community Clean-Up 1:30pm

Thirkill BOGO Book Fair 4-6pm

GRACE

May 1 - Friday

JH Track Districts @ Malad

May 2 - Saturday

HS Track

HS State Solo Contest

May 3 - Sunday LDS Services

May 4 - Monday PTO Book Fair BOGO

May 5 - Tuesday PTO Book Fair BOGO

May 6 - Wednesday

City Council Meeting 6pm

BPA Nationals

HS Golf Districts @ Preston 1st Grade Field Trip AWHC PTO Book Fair BOGO

May 7 - Thursday

BPA Nationals

HS Track Districts @ Century (Pocatello)

3rd Grade Field Trip American West Heritage PTO Book Fair BOGO

BANCROFT

May 1 - Friday

MS Track Districts @ Malad

May 3 - Sunday LDS Services

May 4 - Monday School Board Meeting 6:30pm

May 5 - Tuesday North Gem Drama Production 6:30pm

May 6 - Wednesday North Gem Drama Production 6:30pm

May 7 - Thursday District Track @ Century High School

ON THIS DAY

1789 George Washington is inaugurated as the first President of the United States of America at Federal Hall in NYC

1803 Chancellor Robert Livingston and James Monroe sign Louisiana Purchase Treaty in Paris at the cost of 15 million dollars, doubles the size of USA

1889 First US National holiday on the centennial of Washington's inauguration

1904 Ice cream cone makes its debut at St. Louis World's Fair invented by Ernest A. Hamwi (independently of another claimant Italo Marchiony in NY)

1939 FDR becomes the first US President to appear on TV when NBC-RCA television broadcasts the opening of 1939 New York World's Fair

1945 Adolf Hitler commits suicide

along with his new wife Eva Braun in the Fuhrerbunker in Berlin as the Red Army captures the city

1947 Boulder Dam renamed in honor of Herbert Hoover

1952 Mr. Potato Head is the first toy advertised on television

1988 The then largest banana split ever, at 4.5 miles long, is made along Market Street in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania

1993 The source code of the World Wide Web is released by CERN, making it freely available to all

2012 The unfinished One World Trade Center overtakes the Empire State building to become the tallest building in New York

2022 Bach Long Bridge, the world's longest glass-bottom bridge at 632m opens in Noc Chau Island mountain park, Vietnam

LUNCH MENUS

SODA SPRINGS LUNCH MENU

Lunches served with Fruit, Veggies & Milk

Monday, May 4

Corn Dog, Chips, Fruit, Veggies

Tuesday, May 5

Taco, Refried Beans, Fruit, Veggies

Wednesday, May 6

Chicken Patty, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Fruit, Veggies

Thursday, May 7

Cook's Choice, Fruit, Veggies

NORTH GEM LUNCH MENU

Milk and Choice of Bar Each Day

Monday, May 4

Cereal Fun Lunch, Tator Tot

Breakfast Wrap, Fresh Baby Carrots, Applesauce

Tuesday, May 5

Italian Grilled Cheese, Deli Bar, California Spinach Salad, Peaches

Wednesday, May 6

Ribbq Sandwich Deli Bar, Corn, Tropical Fruit

Thursday, May 7

Walking Tacos, Deli Bar, Cheesy Refried Beans, Pears

GRACE LUNCH MENU

Lunches served with Milk

Monday, May 4

Quesadilla, Food Choices - Seasoned Black Beans, Corn, Pears

Tuesday, May 5

Sloppy Joe, Tots, Food ChoicesGreen Beans, Peaches

BIRTHDAYS

Vonnie Hansen, May 2

Lloyd Rasmussen, May 4

Kelly Chapin, May 6

Linda Arnold, May 7

Johnny McCuddy, May 7

Maxine Smith, May 8

Teresa Beck, May 8

Tracy Gentry, May 11

Linda Mickelson, May 12

Elyn Brown, May 13

Dagmar Beasley, May 20

MiShaelia Beckstead, May 22

David Grosso, May 22

Dana Moore, May 23

Jared W. Brown, May 24

Wednesday, May 6

Chicken Nuggets, Scalloped Potatoes, Roll, Food ChoicesFresh Veggies, Mandarin

Thursday, May 7

Pizza, Food Choices - romaine Salad, Fresh Veggies, Applesauce

Judy Bassett, May 24

Jan Nielsen, May 24

Darryl Dixon, May 24

Lani Sant, May 26

Dean Barker, May 27

Cammy Parsons, May 29

Teri Olsen, May 29

Linda Rasmussen, May 31

If you would like to add yourself, your kids, loved one, friend or family member to our weekly birthday list, contact Sherrie at 208-766-4773 or email sherrie.w@idahoenterprise.com

NEWS OF RECORD

CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF

Rafael E Aceituno Chavez, Taylorsville, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Hannah Catherine Brylinski, Etna, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Porter Colton Cook, Syracuse, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Jordan Blake Crump, Montpelier, fail to register annually

Trevor David Doxey, Grace, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Sonia Rocha Nava, Layton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Lyman Scott Nelson, Bancroft, improper use of designated lane, $33.50, costs $56.50

Liam Micah Noble, Pocatello, improper or unsafe lane change, $33.50, costs $56.50

Brooke Palmer, Malad, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Phillip Alden Smith, fail to use safety restraint, $10.50

Christion F Whitehorn, Gilbert, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Cooper Kale Wuthrich, Montpelier, speeding, $33.50, cost $56.50

SODA SPRINGS POLICE

Daniel Brasileiro Campos De Sousa, Sandy, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Roselia Chavez Melo, Rexburg, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Ashton Alexis Keetch, Dingle, fail to register annually

Singh Gurtinder, Fresno, operate vehicle when unsafe or improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $56.50

LOOKING BACK AT PAGES FROM THE PAST

The following stories are summarized from past issues of the Caribou County Sun over the last fifty plus years. The Enterprise thanks Mark Steele for permission to use the contents, and the Grace Public Library for access to the archives.

2011

The Whitney family has opened up a new family diner in Soda Springs, called the Amin Street Diner at 71 South Main Street.

Hours are Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. They will be opening for dinner in late May on Fridays and Saturdays.

“Starting May 1, we will have our upstairs gallery open for meetings, parties, and large groups free of charge with a minimum of a 24-hour notice, “Shannon Whitney said.

The Whitney family would like to thank everyone for all the support opening up the new family diner.

“We are looking forward to serving our family and yours for generations to come,” Whitney said.

The Soda Springs Chamber of Commerce has launched a branding campaign or competition to define the city and surrounding area, and to bring some long overdue catchet to its image.

They are looking for something catchy, like Hershey, Pennsylvania’s “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” “What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas,” “Cleveland Rocks,” or New York’s “The City the Never Sleeps.”

What the chamber is trying to do is identify the heart of the community, and to give Soda Springs and Caribou County its own identity. And brands only resonate if they reflect the location’s true character. To help find its identity, the chamber has posted a branding campaign or competition, asking anyone even remotely familiar with the area to name the town’s endearing qualities.

Schae Richards authored the following piece:

“The newspaper staff of Grace High School has recently published an article in the school newspaper, on a 1967 graduate of Grace High School. This idea was presented by the entire staff with the intention to educate and entertain the readers of the Grizzly Growl. They wanted to emphasize the fact that small town students can achieve anything they want to.

To help execute the idea, the staff chose Judge Randy Smith to interview. I, as the editor, traveled to Pocatello to the United States Courthouse to interview Randy for the article. He was very open to any questions and gave exceptional answers to the ones that were presented to him.

Randy Smith came from a family that consisted of four boys and one girl. His father, Norman Smith, supported his family well as he took on three different jobs. Norman was a farmer, a teacher, and a coach. Randy was asked if he disliked having his father being an employee if the high school and Randy noted that he was never annoyed by the fact that his father was always there, but he did mention, “He made me work harder than anybody else.” He claimed that as a definite advantage.

Randy claims that his favorite memory about Thatcher was working in po-

tatoes and going to the post office to eat candy.

Randy stayed active during his high school years and received many opportunities which later benefitted him. Starting as a freshman in 1964, he wore the jersey number 52 and played the positions middle linebacker and center for the football team. He carried on to play football his sophomore year and also managed to letter in football; he was also able to be a member of the G-Club.

In 1966, Randy was voted “most studious” by his junior class. He played a part in the play production of Judge Linch and Curious Savage. He also got involved with the first debate team that Grace High School ever had. He also joined declamation where he competed in Extemporaneous Speech…

During his senior year in 1967, he pulled ligaments in his knee while playing a game against Paris, and because of injury, he was not able to play basketball. This setback did not stop Randy from being involved in his school. He was elected senior class president and he also had the privilege to be a member of the National Honor Society. He continued to stay active in the debate program as well as declamation.

During research, I found that Randy was voted most studious and most likely to succeed. When asked how he would describe his highs school experience in Grace, he declared, “It was the most learning experience. I enjoyed every part of it.”

Randy Smith is now a judge for the Ninth Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals. Currently, he is working on a case dealing with Proposition Eight in California. He claims, “The hardest aspect of my job is to make sure that the things I say and do are the right things to do.” Before he received this prestigious honor, he enrolled at Utah State University.

He mentions that Utah State was “the place to go to have fun” and that’s what influenced his decision to attend there. Randy’s intended major was accounting after he graduated from high school. “I wanted to make money like Brian Mendenhall,” Randy replied when asked why he chose this area of study.

He decided to transfer to BYU and after six years he received his law degree. He also served an LDS mission to Paris, France.

Based on his high school career, it may seem obvious that Boys’ State is what got him involved in politics, but

e Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition P.O. Box 331 Soda Springs, Idaho 83276 (U.S.P.S. -- 090-560) ISSN: 2997-1004

The Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition is published weekly at 76 South Main Street, Ste. 207, Soda Springs, Idaho. Postmaster, please mail address corrections to: The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 331, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276.

Entered as “periodicals” at the Soda Springs, Idaho Post Office.

Subscription rates are strictly in advance -- $55.00 per year delivered in Caribou County, and $67.00 per year delivered outside of Caribou County within the United States.

The Idaho Enterprise reserves the right to refuse publication of any or all materials.

Brandon Hall Editor brandon.h@idahoenterprise.com

Bryan Dean Scott Publisher bryan.s@thecityjournals.com

Sherrie Wise Advertising sherrie.w@idahoenterprise.com

Phone: 208-766-4773 www.cariboucountynews.com

Randy simply noted that going into debate sparked the interest.

When asked what he considered to be his greatest accomplishment, he said, “My marriage to my wife.” He met his wife LaDean in Preston at the golf course.

Another great accomplishment Randy has pursued was the drug court that he started in 1995 right after he was put in as an Idaho District Judge. Before that he occupied the job as an attorney. He chose to help kids who were using meth, drinking, and driving. He desired to help these kids by assisting them to change their lifestyles…

Some Grace High School students look at being raised in a small town as a disadvantage. Randy notes that the advantages outweigh any disadvantage. He states that he was “very” and “extremely “ grateful for his small town experience. He then noted the main advantage, “It teaches you to work.”

James Frankos was named to the 2A All-Idaho Basketball First Team according to the Idaho Statesman. Frankos, a senior at Soda Springs High School, shot better than 40 percent from the field. The 6’3” senior guard averaged 15.5 points, six rebounds, three assists, and one block per game.

“He was without question our team leader. He was like having another coach on the floor,” Soda Springs Coach Greg Berghom said.

Americans for Job Security, a pro-business issue advocacy organization, has launched new advertisements applauding Sen. Mike Crapo for his work towards limiting credit card swipe fees that cost American businesses and consumers more than $48 billion in 2008 alone.

“Sen. Crapo has stood up to Wall Street banks and credit card companies on behalf of Idaho’s small businesses,” said Stephen DeMaura, president of Americans for Job Security.

“Small businesses are left powerless against the multi-billion-dollar banks that have a monopoly of the marketplace. Swipe fees are crippling our nation’s hard-working merchants and ultimately killing jobs. On behalf of America’s small business owners, I would like to than k Sen. Crapo for standing up for Main Street Idaho, limiting egregious fees and protecting Idaho’s businesses.”

Every time a consumer swipes their debit card, small businesses pay big banks and average of 44 cents – approximately 11 times the actual cost that banks incur to process the transaction. Because swipe fees are centrally set by Visa and MasterCard, which together represent nearly 90 percent of the debit-card market, small businesses are unable to negotiate swipe fee costs or take their business elsewhere.

1976

Senator Frank Church said today that he has cosponsored legislation which would prohibit credit card companies from disclosing personal information without the credit cardholder’s permission.

Church noted, “Recent hearings have shown that credit card companies have been releasing personal financial records, including credit transactions, which enable others to form profiles of individuals’ purchases and most intimate daily living habits. This practice

is clearly an invasion of privacy which must be stopped.”

The hearings showed that the companies are also responding to subpoenas without the cardholder’s knowledge. The bill Church is supporting would require that the holder be notified if such a subpoena has been received.

If Barry Rhodes asked you to stand on the model wooden bridge he built for his drafting and design technology class, you would probably laugh at the idea. The bridge, not quite two feet long and weighing less than six and one half ounces, would surely break under your weight. And if Rhodes also invited one of your friends to join you on the bridge, you might then be convinced he had a death wish for his creation, right?

Wrong. Rhodes and his classmates at the Idaho State University School of Vocational Technical Education have confidence in their designing abilities. Their bridges would be in little danger from you and your friend, even with lead weights in your pockets. As a matter of fact, Rhodes’ bridge withstood 453 pounds on a stress machine before it began to creak and break. That figures out to 70.8 pounds per ounce of bridge, not bad for balsa wood and glue, and good enough to win the annual bridge-building contest at Vo-Tech.

Nettie Nelson Farnworth celebrated her 82nd birthday April 4, 1976. She is the only survivor of seventeen children. She was the 16th child. Her last surviving brother, Daniel Nelson, passed away a year ago in Seattle at the age of 90.

Nettie’s parents, Hans L. and Anna Christine Nelson, were converts to the LDS church, coming to the United States from Denmark in the 1860s. They settled first in Mantua, Utah. A few years later, they homesteaded in Mink Creek, Idaho, being one of the first families in that community. Eleven children were born there.

IDAN-HA THEATRE

-INDOOR-

Thursday, April 30

Friday, May 1

Saturday, May 2

The Devil Wears Prada 2 (PG-13) Miranda Priestly struggles against Emily Charlton, her former assistant turned rival executive, as they compete for advertising revenue amid declining print media, while Miranda nears retirement.

Saturday Matinee 2:00 p.m. (All seats $5), 6:00 & 8:30 p.m. (Regular Prices)

Wednesday, April 29 6:00 & 8:30 p.m. (All seats $5)

S. Douglas Wood, Esquire

SPINNER, WOOD & SMITH

1335 East Center - P.O. Box

6009

Pocatello, Idaho 83205 6009

Telephone: (208) 232 4471 Idaho State Bar No. 7790

Email: doug@pocatello-law. com

Attorneys for Personal Representative

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE SIXTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF THE STATE OF IDAHO, IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF CARIBOU

In the Matter of the Estate of:

TOMMY RAY TEUSCHER, DOD: February 25, 2026, Deceased.

Case No. CV15-26-0057

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

That Cherie Hicken, whose address is c/o Spinner, Wood & Smith, P. O. Box 6009, Pocatello, ID 83205-6009, announce appointment as Personal Representative of the estate of the above named decedent, and hereby notifies all creditors of the said estate to present their claims by filing the claim with the Clerk of the above entitled Court and serving a copy of the claim on the Personal Representative of the estate. A claim shall be a written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, and must be filed and served within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or be forever barred if not barred earlier by other statutes of limitation.

DATED This 20th day of April, 2026.

____/s/________________

Cherie Hicken Personal Representative

#1225-04-30-05-07-14-26-T3

S. Douglas Wood, Esquire

SPINNER, WOOD & SMITH 1335 East Center - P.O. Box 6009 Pocatello, Idaho 83205 6009

Telephone: (208) 232 4471

Idaho State Bar No. 7790

Email: doug@pocatello-law. com

Attorneys for Personal Representative

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE SIXTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF THE STATE OF IDAHO, IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF CARIBOU

In the Matter of the Estate of:

TOMMY RAY TEUSCHER, DOD: February 25, 2026, Deceased.

Case No. CV15-26-0057

NOTICE AND INFORMATION TO HEIRS AND DEVISEES

TO: The Heirs and Devisees of the Above Entitled Estate:

1. The above named decedent died on or about the 25th day of February, 2026.

2. You have or may have an interest in the estate of the decedent.

3. On the 23rd day of March, 2026, the below signed filed an Application For Informal Appointment of decedent's estate in the above named Court.

4. On the 31st day of March, 2026, the above named Court issued a Statement of Informal Probate appointing the below signed as Personal Representative. No bond was required.

5. Papers and information relating to the estate are on file in the District Court of the Sixth Judicial District in and for the County of Caribou, State of Idaho, at Soda Springs, Idaho.

DATED this 20th day of April, 2026.

_______/s/______________

Cherie Hicken Personal Representative #1226-04-30-05-07-14-26-T3

Traveling Vietnam Wall and Cost of Freedom Tribute coming in September

Soda Springs, ID — Americas Freedom Tribute would like to announce to the people of Soda Springs that The American Veterans Traveling Tribute’s (AVTT) Traveling Vietnam Wall and Cost of Freedom Tribute will be on display for the public at City Park, 9W 2 nd S. Soda Springs, ID.

The Rotary Club of Soda Springs is pleased to announce that they will be hosting the Global War On Terror (GWOT) Wall by America’s Freedom Tribute (AFT) from September 16 – 20 at City Park in Soda Springs, Idaho. This full size, 28-panel wall honors all casualties from September 11, 2011 through current global conflicts.

“As we celebrate 250 years of America, we also wish to commemorate the 25th anniversary of 9/11 by remembering the lives lost in the attacks and those who sacrificed everything to defend our freedom thereafter,” said Ben Goode of the Rotary Club of Soda Springs.

“We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. We were fortunate to host AFT’s 80% Vietnam wall tribute in 2022 and look forward to again honoring our Veterans by presenting the GWOT Wall this year. This event will be a fantastic opportunity for everyone in our local communities to pay their respects to our nations’ fallen warriors and honor all who have answered the call to service.”

Dorena Federici, AFT Event Coordinator stated, “We are excited to be part of this experience and make this event one to remember!”

Dorena Federici, the AFT Event Coordinator stated, “We would like to thank Soda Springs for providing the location for us to display our Tribute.”

We are currently seeking volunteers, donations, and community participation to help make this event meaningful and successful. Your support helps ensure that these tributes continue to honor those who gave everything for our freedom.

For Additional info about AVTT, visit the website at www. avtt.org. OR https://www.americasfreedomtribute.org

To volunteer, participate or just help in any way, Contact Dorena Federici by email Dfederici.aft@gmail.com

More information will be announced closer to the time of event.

Legal Notice STATE OF IDAHO LAND LEASE OPPORTUNITY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR AUCTION OF LEASE

Notice is hereby given pursuant to Article IX, § 8 of the Idaho Constitution and Idaho Code §§ 58-307, -310 and -313, the State of Idaho, Department of Lands (hereinafter “IDL”), will accept lease applications for public auctions of the lease set forth below. Lease application deadline for all leases is Thursday, April 30, 2026, by 5:00 PM (MT).

If more than one application is received for the lease, a live auction will take place in the future as determined by IDL. The lease will then be awarded to the bidder who will pay the highest premium bid therefore. Annual rental rates are established by IDL.

Detailed information regarding the lease, including a specific legal description of the property to be leased, rental rates, and instructions to complete application and fee can be obtained by visiting IDL’s website at www.idl.idaho. gov.

Lease No., New Lease No., Term, Use, Legal Description, County

M800048 , TBD, 10 Years, Industrial, .06 acres of Pts SWNESW, T07S, R40E, S12, Caribou County

Contact Ryan Woodland at 208-525-7167 for more

Richard Lee Lemons Kern 180 N. 1st E. Soda Springs, Idaho 83276 208-530-0176 rick-kern88@yahoo.com

IN THE DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SIXTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT FOR THE STATE OF IDAHO, IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF CARIBOU

IN RE: Richard Lee Lemons Kern Legal Name

Case No. CV15-26-70 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE (Adult of Emancipated Minor)

A Petition to change the name of Richard Lee Lemons Kern, now residing in the City of Soda Springs, State of Idaho. The name will change to Richard Lee Lemons. The reason for the change in name is: I was abused by my biological father and do not want his last name.

A hearing on the petition is scheduled for 2:30 o'clock p.m. on (date) 05-27-2026 at the Caribou County Courthouse. Objections may be filed by any person who can show the court a good reason against the name change.

Date: 04-09-2026

CLERK OF THE DISTRICT COURT

Wendy Rasmussen by: Wendy Rasmussen Deputy Clerk

#1221-04-16-23-30-05-0726-T4

NOTICE OF ASSESSMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors of Farmers Land and Irrigation Canal Company, Ltd., has determined that an assessment is necessary and has levied an assessment in the amount of $26.00 per share upon the capital stock of the corporation for the purpose of maintenance and operation of the canal company.

Said assessment shall be due and payable to Farmers Land & Irrigation, c/o Wade Olorenshaw, 1930 Ivins Road, Bancroft, Idaho 83217, on or before the 14th day of May, 2026.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that all assessments must be paid in full before the watermaster shall deliver irrigation water for the 2026 irrigation season.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Farmers Land and Irrigation Canal Company, Ltd.

#1227-04-30-05-07-26-T2

#1220-04-23-30-05-07-14-26T4

OBITUARIES

Grant Powell Lester, age 83, passed away on April 19, 2026, in Maricopa, AZ.

Grant was born on May 27, 1942, in Ogden to Druesilla and Orval Lester. He was the eldest of eleven children and was raised in Bancroft, where he learned the values of hard work, family, and loyalty that shaped his life. He graduated from North Gem High School in 1960 and proudly joined the United States Navy alongside his best friend, Dennis Smith, serving from 1960 to 1964.

In 1967, Grant married Vernae “Shorty” Lester. Through their marriage, Grant lovingly welcomed Rae Ann (Randy) Prescott, Darrell (Gaye Lynn) Law, and Michael Law into his life, and together they welcomed their daughter, Tina (Oskar) Ociepa, in July 1967. They made their home in Soda Springs, where Grant worked for Monsanto, Stauffer Chemical, Washington Construction and Dravo. He also worked on the Alaska Pipeline in 1974 and 1975. He and Shorty then owned and operated Caribou Auto Supply until their retirement. In later years, Grant and Vernae enjoyed traveling between Idaho and Arizona in their motorhomes, creating many treasured memories.

After Vernae’s passing in 2022, Grant was blessed to reconnect with Tina Hunt, a longtime friend in Arizona. What began as friendship grew into a deep and meaningful relationship when they both needed companionship most. They were married in August 2023 and shared happiness, laughter, and steadfast devotion together. During their time together, Grant and Tina were almost inseparable, enjoying many adventures and seeing the world side by side. Through this marriage, Grant was also bless-

May 27, 1942 ~ April 19, 2026 Jerry Charles Lakey

Jerry Charles Lakey, 75, of Soda Springs, Idaho, passed away peacefully at his home on April 23, 2026.

Jerry was born January 2, 1951, in Soda Springs, Idaho, to Ezra and Faye Lakey. He was raised on the family farm as the fourth of five children, where he learned the value of hard work, developed his steady nature, and formed the deep love of the land that remained with him throughout his life. He attended Idaho State University and spent a short time working in Las Vegas, living with his sister Lois before returning home to the family farm working and raising his family.

On June 29, 1974, Jerry married the love of his life, Connie Somsen Lakey. Together they built a beautiful life centered around the family farm with lots of laughter and great adventures. Their marriage of more than fifty years was filled with country drives, family gatherings, kids sports and the great outdoors.

Jerry loved the outdoors and was always ready for an adventure. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, huckleberry picking, snowmobiling, boating, and exploring the mountains he knew so well. He seemed to know every road, trail, and hidden place. He treasured time spent with family and friends, whether in the mountains, on the water, or simply going for a ride with Connie.

Jerry never knew a stranger. He was everyone’s best friend, a jokester who loved to laugh and make others smile. He was thoughtful, generous, and always willing to help anyone in need. Ever since he was a little boy, he had a special place in his heart for animals and them for him.

More than anything, Jerry will be remembered for his love of fishing, kindness, loyalty, humor, and the deep love he had for his family. His family was his whole world, and he was im-

ed with two more daughters, Tiffany Heller and Britany (Dave) Cannon, and their families, whom he loved dearly.

Grant’s greatest joy was his family. He leaves behind a legacy through his 17 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Vernae “Shorty” Lester; his parents; and one brother.

Grant will be remembered for his strength, loyalty, humor, kindness, and the love he had for his family and friends. He worked hard, loved deeply, and lived a full life surrounded by those who meant the most to him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Moose Lodge in Maricopa on May 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

Military Rites will commence at 12:00 p.m. on May 9, 2026, at the Soda Springs Cemetery flagpole. This ceremony will be followed by a Celebration of Life at the Caribou County Senior Center until 3:00 p.m.

Grant’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

mensely proud of each of them.

Jerry was a devoted father and grandfather whose family meant everything to him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Connie Lakey of Soda Springs; son Derek and Lisa Lakey of Fairbanks, Alaska; daughter Hayley and Babe Meyers of Soda Springs, Idaho; grandchildren Kasey, Tanner, Tayler, Colby, Megan, and Mya; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Julie Lakey; sister-in-law Terre Lakey; brothers-inlaw Steve (Louise) Somsen and Randy (Cherese) Somsen, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ezra and Faye Lakey; sister Lois Lakey; brothers Loney Lakey and Dwight Lakey; and father-in-law and mother-in-law Leith and Virijean Somsen.

A viewing will be held Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Sims Funeral Home, and again Friday, May 1, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Sims Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Caribou Bible Church, 290 E 1st N, Soda Springs, ID 83276.

Lenae Rose Manhart, a beloved mother, dedicated educator, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, in Thatcher, Idaho. Born on February 17, 1959, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, Lenae’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love, wisdom, and boundless generosity.

Before she became a teacher who touched countless lives, Lenae was first and foremost a devoted mom, a role she embraced with all her heart. She graduated from Grace High School and, after having four children, pursued her passion for education at Idaho State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. Her journey was marked by a dedication to growth and service; she began her career working in school food service while earning her degree, always committed to nurturing others in every way she could.

Lenae's teaching career was a testament to her excellence and compassion. She started as a kindergarten teacher at Grace Elementary, sharing her warmth and enthusiasm with the youngest learners. Later, she imparted her love of mathematics to middle school students at Sandcreek Middle School in Ammon, Idaho, and ultimately returned to Grace to teach 5th grade and junior high. Her classrooms were places where every student felt included and valued, reflecting her welcoming spirit. Lenae was known to be the first to open her arms to newcomers, the person who stepped up quietly but surely to do the tasks that needed doing. Wise and caring, she embodied the heart of an educator who truly believed in every child's potential.

Lenae’s proudest accomplishments were rooted in her family and her students. Graduating from college, building a successful teaching career, and, most importantly, raising her family were milestones that brought her immense joy and pride. She approached life with a rare blend of kindness and strength, willing to take part in every Manhart Adventure... well, usually.

Lenae found some of her greatest joy in being a grandmother. She dearly loved her grandchildren and took every opportunity to be part of their lives, especially in the moments that mattered most to them. Whether cheering from the stands at a game, attending concerts and school events, or simply spending time together, she was their biggest supporter. Her presence was a constant source of encouragement and love, and her grandchildren will always remember the warmth of her pride, the comfort of her support, and the joy she found in watching them grow and succeed.

Beyond the classroom and family life, Lenae was an excellent cook and seamstress, gifted in every handicraft she attempted. These talents enriched her home and added a special touch to the lives of those around her, who will fondly remember her creativity and the warmth she brought to every gathering.

Lenae was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and her faith was a guiding light throughout her life. She

lived her beliefs through quiet acts of service, unwavering compassion, and a deep love for those around her. Whether serving in her church, offering support to friends and neighbors, or simply living as an example of kindness and integrity, Lenae’s faith was evident in all she did. It brought her strength in times of trial and peace in times of uncertainty, and it remains an enduring part of the legacy she leaves with her family.

Lenae fought a brave battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family and friends who provided comfort and strength until the very end. The memories of her final days are filled with the precious moments she spent with those she loved most, moments that now stand as a testament to the deep bonds she nurtured throughout her life.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Kevin Manhart; her children, Shelley and Jody Reeves, Kasidy Manhart, Zane and Gina Manhart, and Katie and Joe Crofts; fifteen grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Connie Mickelson, Blaine Mickelson, Stan Mickelson, Lettie Harrison, and Nolan Mickelson, all of whom carry forward her legacy of love and strength. Lenae was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel and Rose Mary Mickelson, and her brother, Shawn Mickelson.

Lenae’s life exemplified selflessness, strength, and unwavering love. Her smile, her wisdom, and her open-hearted nature made an indelible mark on all who knew her. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched, in the family she cherished, and in the lessons she imparted. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a shining light in the hearts of all who had the blessing of knowing her.

Funeral services will be conducted at Noon on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Niter Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 2060 Niter Bench Rd. Grace, ID. There will be a visitation on Friday, May 1st, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, both at the Niter church. Lenae's final resting place will be in the Thatcher Cemetery. For those unable to attend the services in person, a live stream will be available at https://www.redrosefuneral.com.

To share a favorite memory of Lenae or to offer condolences to the family, please leave a tribute on this page.

CARIBOU

Trails

explained on the group’s social media sites. The tour will involve a “fun and easy ride” to explore several water features in the area, such as Hooper Springs.

Later in the season, GOAL is hosting a 5K Run/Walk, which will start at 10:00 a.m. at the Bailey Creek water tower parking lot. This is the first of its kind 5K through whispering pines and quakies.

The City of Soda Springs is working in the Bailey Creek area to open new walking trails in the broader Ledge Creek area. Silica sand has been laid along much of the distance, and the trails have already begun to see foot traffic. An official opening

is in the works.

During Saturday’s cleanup event, there was not a large amount of trash to clean up, which is a good sign. The trails are largely in need of cutting back some bushes and quick-growing trees, as well as maintaining the trail edges.

While the trail clearing was underway, Cowboy Ted held a Human-Powered Rodeo session to give the younger kids a chance to run off some energy and gain an appreciation for spending that energy and time outdoors.

“This was our day to celebrate trails, and it was awesome to connect with GOAL and do this,” Cowboy Ted (Hallisey) said. “The biggest part was the kids coming out for trail

Baby Animal Day in Grace

It’s spring time, and what better way to celebrate than with a menagerie of baby animals at the Fairgrounds!

While there is no way around the stark reality that it was bitterly cold over the weekend, the animal barns at the Fairgrounds nevertheless hosted scores of kids and their families that visited the puppies, kittens, chicks, foals, piglets and more that filled the stalls. 4-H program coordinator Lisa Barfuss and 4-H assistant Rachel Hamilton led the assembled Extension Office crew as they welcomed the public to the Fairgrounds for an afternoon of information about 4-H and 4-H programs, as well as generally caring for young animals.

“A lot of kids see the animals at the fair later in the summer, but it’s a different to see them in the spring when they’re still so little,” Hamilton said. Sometimes it can be hard to imagine

While the Baby Animal Day included a number of animals provided by locals, it wasn't an adoption fair exactly. Nonetheless, some phone numbers were exchanged and arrangements made.

doing a 4-H animal project when confronted with the “finished product,” so to speak, and this gave kids the chance to see them in the “right out of the box” stage.

The event was an opportunity for those with Fair projects underway to check in with the office and make sure they were on track for a busy upcoming Fair season, and it was also a chance for those with kids who were interested in 4-H to get information about joining the organization.

The local 4-H office is now housed on the northwest side of the Event Center next to the Fairgrounds in Grace, and the office is open during normal business hours. Anyone wishing to contact the office for program information or to register can call 208-547-3205, or visit the “Caribou Fourh” Facebook page for more information.

cleanup day, and that carries on for the whole year. There’s a National Trail Day coming up in June, too.”

Like GOAL, Cowboy Ted is dedicated to spreading an appreciation for outdoor activities, as well as mindful behavior and starting positive habits early. He belongs to a number of regional groups working to bring events focused on those things to local communities. Last week, we brought you a report on an event for younger kids in Bancroft, and this week he will be in Lava Hot Springs. As the summer picks up, we will let you know about other local Cowboy Ted events.

After the event, GOAL board members Chris Gonzalez and Misti Newby took a tour of the Bike Park which sits on the southern end of Kelly Park near the ice rink location. Gonzelez has been an advocate for the Bike Park since it was first started as a project in 2019. Early on in the bike park’s life COVID hit, and the original designer left the project. Nevertheless, donations of time and resources have kept it going, and Gonzalez has plans for what comes next.

Greg Jensen, for one thing, recently finished the concrete bases for official metal signwork that will be placed at the park. “It’s going to look really cool,” Gonzalez said, as he pointed to the stamped base where the signposts will be placed.

The hill gets a lot of use throughout the summer, and once the

weather finally settles, work on getting the paths ready for the season can start, as well as adding to the existing layout.

“There are three lines from the start hill right now. You can tell which one is the least popular by how much grass is on it,” Gonzalez laughed. “Anybody can hit these at any age.”

The park is a labor of love for local riders, who have provided a lot of literal labor on the project. “We did all this with a skid loader and a plate compactor. And shovels, of course.”

The paths cater to riders of different skill levels and interests, with a “pump path” nearly dialed in to allow for a complete circuit without peddling. Other features require a different kind of effort. “This one is kind of like a mountain bike trail, it’s rough and basic,” Gonzalez said, indicating a path made largely of rock.

In either case, the paths lead to the western side of the bike park, where “most people will just ride up the silica trail back to the beginning.”

Anyone wishing to become involved or support the park is encouraged to visit the “Soda Springs Bike Park” Facebook page, which recently added an aerial drone image of the course. As spring possibly (finally) gets up and going, the call of the wild and the draw of the outdoors are getting stronger!

War on Weeds—weeds are everybody’s problem

THE ISSUE: Annual Sowthistle

Annual sowthistle (Sonchus oleraceus) is an annual weed found in agricultural fields and home gardens. Annual sowthistle is a well-known host for pests and diseases of crops, in addition, it utilizes valuable water resources, reducing yields for desirable crops. Annual sowthistle can produce up to 8,000 seeds per plant and seeds are dispersed easily by the wind. Annual sowthistle is a member of the Asteraceae (sunflower) family. It can grow 1 to 4 feet tall and produces an elongated Hershey Kiss shaped yellow flower that opens like a dandelion. Its sessile leaves are deeply lobed with prickly margins. The leaves wrap around the stem and point straight back, as opposed to Prickly sowthistle whose leaves wrap around and down the stem. It has a hollow, spineless stem, and when broken open, exudes a white milky substance.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Options:

• Cultural – Annual sowthistle’s seeds do not remain viable when on the surface of the ground for more than a year but can remain viable if incorporated into the soil. Shallow tillage, of less than 3 inches will keep seeds from building up in the seed bank. In addition, annual sowthistle germinates well in wet soils, limiting the amount of standing water or saturated soils will reduce germination rates.

• Mechanical – Hand pulling annual sowthistle is easy because of its shallow root system. Shallow tilling or hoeing of annual sowthistle will pull up its roots. Remove the entire root, as re-rooting can occur.

• Biological – Grazing by sheep and cattle suppresses the growth of annual sowthistle making it more susceptible to other forms of control.

• Chemical – Preemergent and post emergent chemicals are both available for use with annual sowthistle. Post-emergency spot spraying has been found to provide excellent control. For more information on different chemicals to use refer to www.pnwhandbooks.org and search “Annual Sowthistle” in the search. Always read and follow herbicide label directions!

Tom Jacobsen, University of Idaho Extension Educator in Fremont County. (208) 624-3102 tjacobsen@uidaho.edu and Justin Hatch, University of Idaho Extension Educator in Caribou County. (208) 547-3205

A Look At The Links

BY JODY REEVES

Last week's golf action took place in Preston and saw the Cardinals and Grizzlies once again battling it out. All season the Cardinals have held the edge over the Grizzlies as a team in both the boys and girls competitions. That would once again hold true in last week's match. The Soda Springs boys took the top spot as a team followed closely by West Side then Grace in third. On the girls side the Lady Cardinals once again reigned supreme placing first as a team followed by the Lady Grizzlies. The more intriguing aspects of the competition this season has come in the individual scoring. In the boys competition the Grizzlies

Keathen Edwards has consistently been the top local golfer and that remained the same once again last week. The interesting thing to watch this season has been the Cardinals team. They have shuffled all over the place in terms of where they place week to week. Last week’s top Cardinals golfer was Kaden Simmons but the Cardinals continue to stay a tightly grouped team. Just ten strokes separated the Cardinals top golfer from their fifth place golfer. That kind of consistency has the Cardinals looking strong as favorites for the district title. In the girls competition the battle this season has been between the Lady Grizzlies top golfer, Kamryn Mansfield and the Lady Cardinals top golfer Jayden

Parker. Last week Mansfield edged out Parker by five shots. Like the boys team the Lady Cardinals have stayed a fairly tight group and also are looking like the favorites to take the district this season. With the season winding down the Cardinals will need to keep on the throttle while the Grizzlies will need to do a little work if they want to make a run at the state tournament.

Soda Springs Boys 353

Kaden Simmons 82

Preston Ozburn 89

Gavin Hansen 90

Barrett Hobbs 92

Brycen Simmons 92

Grace Boys 399

Keathen Edwards 72

Kade Kimball 108

Jace Manhart 108

Colt Coleman 111

Treyson King 133

Soda Spring Girls 369

Jayden Parker 80

Tara Vedder 90

Jasta Stoor 96

Jocie Tingey 103

Kale Hopkins 110

Grace Girls 410

Kamryn Mansfield 75

Myleigh Straatman 111

Shaston Lloyd 112

Tessica Jorgensen 112

Paisley Barthlome 127

Lady Cardinals Struggle In Conference Play Cardinals Drop Two Road Games

BY JODY REEVES

Last week the Lady Cardinals continued conference play taking on a pair of opponents. They began their week with a home game against West Side. The Lady Cardinals got off to a solid start in this game. Soda Springs scored three runs at their first at bat and were able to hold the Lady Pirates scoreless. In the second inning the game flipped on the Lady Cardinals. After not scoring any runs themselves the Lady Cardinals gave up ten runs to West side. The third inning was scoreless for both teams and then in the fourth the Lady Cardinals battled back to within three runs. That is as close as they would get. The Lady Pirates continued to push the lead and eventually walked away with a ten run victory.

In their second game of the week the Lady Cardinals traveled to Declo to take on the Lady Hornets. This game was fast and all Declo. In the first two innings the Lady Hornets scored five runs in each inning to the Lady Cardinals zero runs. Soda was able to score a single run in the third but the Lady Hornets added eight ending the game early.

The Lady Cardinal wrap up their regular season this Thursday with senior night. They will host a tough Malad squad and could use all the fan power they can get so show up early to celebrate the seniors and stay for a fun-filled game.

Cardinals

Rodeo Results

District 8 HS Rodeo Results April 24-25, 2026 Pocatello, Idaho

Friday, April 24

BAREBACK RIDING

1. STODDARD, TATE 67.0

2. YOUNGER, KOLE 67.0

3. CORNELISON, KROYDEN 65.0

BARREL RACING

1. SOLOMON, MYLEE 15.628

2. COOLEY, SAGE 15.934

3. LEAVITT, CHAISLEE 16.091

4. REAM, RIDLEE 16.111

5. SCAFFIDE, BRIDGET 16.277

6. KILROY, ARIE 16.371

7. CHRISTENSEN, JOSIE 16.523

8. NATE, TAYLAR 16.667

9. BINGHAM, HANNAH 16.703

10. BAXTER, RYLEE 17.174

SORENSEN, BRYDEN 17.495

GIBSON, COETA 17.663

VRSKA, LIBERTY 18.000

VOUROS, TAYLEE 19.197

PARKER, MAGGIE 19.686

TALBOT, TESSLY 21.110

DOUGLAS, BAILEY 21.248

STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 21.725

JOHNSON, MAELY 22.804

MENDENHALL, ZOEY 23.136

JACKSON, JILL 23.679

JENSEN, KENADEE 26.868

BREAKAWAY ROPING

1. BAYLES, HADLEY 3.490

2. BINGHAM, HANNAH 4.210

3. CHRISTENSEN, JOSIE 4.280

4. VOUROS, TAYLEE 12.910

5. SMITH, JAYCEE 13.100

6. REAM, RIDLEE 15.190

GOAT TYING

1. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 8.460

2. SMITH, JAYCEE 9.440

3. JOHNSON, MAELY 9.720

4. RASMUSSEN, JOSEY 10.490

5. SOLOMON, MYLEE 10.610

6. JACKSON, JILL 11.500

7. BARNES, SUNNI 11.550

8. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 11.910

9. SKINNER, MAYCEE 14.360

10. LYTLE, ADELLIA 18.230

POLE BENDING

1. BINGHAM, HANNAH 22.448

2. COOLEY, SAGE 22.585

3. NATE, TAYLAR 22.612

4. SOLOMON, MYLEE 22.623

5. JENSEN, KENADEE 23.259

6. MENDENHALL, ZOEY 23.911

7. LEAVITT, CHAISLEE 24.150

8. KILROY, ARIE 24.638

9. VRSKA, LIBERTY 24.991

10. REAM, RIDLEE 26.529

PARKER, MAGGIE 27.910

VOUROS, TAYLEE 28.309

GIBSON, COETA 28.581

STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 33.157

DOUGLAS, BAILEY 35.003

STEER WRESTLING

1. SMITH, DUKE 9.770

2. MERRITT, BODRIE 17.380

TEAM ROPING

1. SMITH, KRUZ (HD) & HILTON, ROSS (HL) 6.250

2. KERR, RYDER (HD) & KERR, CASE (HL) 6.480

3. STODDARD, BOSTON (HD) & STODDARD, TATE (HL) 15.360

4. DOUGLAS, BAILEY (HD) & POWELL, TEGANN (HL) 15.950

5. SMITH, CHASE (HD) & SMITH, BODEE (HL) 34.770

TIE DOWN ROPING

1. ROMRELL, CADE 10.860

2. SMITH, DUKE 12.180

3. MERRITT, BODRIE 20.450

4. WESTON, TIBBS 23.780

5. KERR, CASE 26.310

6. CRANE, MCKADE 26.470

7. SMITH, COY 33.450

Saturday, April 25, 2026

BY JODY REEVES

The Cardinals baseball team fell in two road games last week. They first traveled to Bear Lake on Tuesday then headed west to Declo on Friday. The Cardinals game against the Bears was a competitive one. After getting behind by three runs in the first inning the Cardinals began to attempt a long comeback. The third inning was detrimental to Soda Springs as the Bears were able to extend their lead after a hard fought second inning. After three the Cardinals now trailed by seven runs but they were not ready to quit. In the fourth inning Soda had a mini rally outscoring the Bears four runs to zero and cut the lead to just three. Unfortunately they could not maintain their momentum in the fifth and Bear Lake pushed the lead back to five. In the sixth Soda made another run and got the lead to just a two run deficit. However the

BAREBACK RIDING

1. YOUNGER, KOLE 67.0

2. CORNELISON, KROYDEN 61.0

3. STODDARD, TATE 53.0

BARREL RACING

1. SOLOMON, MYLEE 15.697

2. LEAVITT, CHAISLEE 15.758

3. REAM, RIDLEE 15.851

4. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 15.960

5. CHRISTENSEN, JOSIE 16.026

6. TALBOT, TESSLY 16.074

7. COOLEY, SAGE 16.115

8. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 16.280

9. NATE, TAYLAR 16.330

10. VRSKA, LIBERTY 16.518

KILROY, ARIE 16.556

SCAFFIDE, BRIDGET 16.760

BAXTER, RYLEE 17.097

GIBSON, COETA 17.196

MENDENHALL, ZOEY 17.297

PARKER, MAGGIE 17.521

JENSEN, KENADEE 17.561

BINGHAM, HANNAH 17.801

VOUROS, TAYLEE 19.514

JOHNSON, MAELY 21.665

JACKSON, JILL 26.261

BREAKAWAY ROPING

1. NATE, TAYLAR 2.910

2. COOLEY, SAGE 3.280

3. BAYLES, HADLEY 3.380

4. SOLOMON, MYLEE 3.410

5. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 3.480

6. CHRISTENSEN, JOSIE 5.090

7. SCAFFIDE, BRIDGET 5.120

8. NATE, JAYDYN 13.270

9. RICHARDS, AVERY 14.500

10. SMITH, JAYCEE 15.490

GOAT TYING

1. SOLOMON, MYLEE 7.820

2. BARNES, SUNNI 8.960

3. JOHNSON, MAELY 9.120

4. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 9.640

5. SMITH, JAYCEE 9.700

6. RASMUSSEN, JOSEY 10.570

Cardinals were unable to put up any runs in the seventh handing the game to the Bears who did not have to take their last at bat.

The Cardinals trip to Declo was not as successful. The Hornets opened up the game taking a huge ten run lead in the first inning. Soda Springs just could not get anything going to respond to the early deficit. The Cardinals only runs came in the top of the fifth where they scored three runs but it was far too little too late. That game ended in the top of the fifth inning due to the lopsided score.

The Cardinals final game of the regular season was on Monday night which was senior night. For a more in depth look at that game, check out next week's article.

Cardinals 0 2 1 4 1 3 0 11

Bears 3 2 5 0 3 0 - 13

Cardinal 0 0 0 0 3 3

Hornets 10 4 1 0 - 15

ADELLIA 12.840

AVERY 18.410 POLE BENDING

SOLOMON, MYLEE 22.110

STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 22.278

JOHNSON, MAELY 22.447

COOLEY, SAGE 23.019

JENSEN, KENADEE 23.635

GIBSON, COETA 23.710

MENDENHALL, ZOEY 23.770

DOUGLAS, BAILEY 24.032

JACKSON, JILL 24.365

RIDLEE 25.892

TAYLEE 25.931

TAYLAR 26.212

CHAISLEE 33.259 STEER WRESTLING

MERRITT, BODRIE 5.500

ROMRELL, CADE 6.590 TEAM ROPING

SMITH, KRUZ (HD) & HILTON, ROSS (HL) 5.540

BAYLES, HADLEY (HD) & FOX, TRIG (HL) 11.540 3. BUTTARS, HAYDEN (HD) & SMITH, KYZER (HL) 12.870

BETHERS, OAKLEY (HD) & BETHERS, CEDAR

The meet in West Side was a chance for athletes from all three of Caribou Counties schools to compete. Results from West Side are below, with Tiger/Grizz Invitational results in a separate section.

Cardinals, Grizzlies, And Cowboys All Compete At West Side

BY JODY REEVES

For the first time this season all three Caribou County Schools participated in the same track meet last week. That meet was the West Side Invitational in Dayton. For some of the local athletes it was business as usual while others took the opportunity to try a different event than they usually take part in. Some others sat this meet out completely to prepare for the larger Tiger/Grizz meet that took place over the weekend. Due to some inclement weather and the fact that we are getting late in the season, not many personal records were set in this meet. Some of the Athletes that were able to set personal bests did so in part because they were trying new disciplines that they had yet to make a mark in this season.

In the boys competition Bradley Schiele from Grace was the only local to earn a PR in the 100 meter dash due to this being his first meet. Schiele also earned a PR in the 200. In that same 200 meter dash while he was not able to set a PR Jaxson Horsley of Soda Springs did finish with fifth place overall. Parker Yost of Grace and Jace Garbett of Soda Springs each earned PR’s and top ten finishes in the 400 meter dash where both finished in under sixty seconds. Soda’s Kage Kirby finished sixth in the 800 meters while teammate Johnathan Beutler ran a personal best in the 1600 meters finishing in tenth. The Cardinals Blake Maughan earned sixth place in the 110 meter hurdles and seventh in the 300 hurdles. Maughan’s teammate Zayden Garbett grabbed the top spot in the 300’s running a new personal best time. Soda Springs record holder Cole Garbett once again swept the discus and shot put placing first in each event. Soda Springs other big thrower Carson Cook earned a new PR in the javelin placing seventh while the Cowboys Stockton Wight also earned a PR coming up just short of the one hundred foot mark. Finally a trio of Cardinals had top ten finishes in some of the jumping events. Jace Garbett earned fourth in the pole vault, Landon Martinsen placed sixth in the long jump and Jaxson Horsley

finished eighth in the triple jump. In the girls competition The Lady Cardinals showed some good speed in the sprints. Madilyn Kempe took the top spot in the 100 meter dash followed by Emerey Lakey in fourth and Taylie Brewer in fifth. Brewer went on to place third in the 200 meter dash and Lakey placed fifth. North Gems Gracie Christensen earned a fifth place finish in the 400 meters while Soda Springs’ Brinley Kunz earned fourth in the 800 and fifth in the 1600 meters. The Lady Cardinal’s Soleil Somsen placed second in the shot put and took fifth in the discus. North Gem’s best female thrower Madalyn Barnes placed eighth in javelin and jumped all the way to second in the discus with a new personal record. Soda’s Rosie Harris vaulted to first place in the pole vault with a season best mark. North Gem’s Indyana Hatch hit a new PR in the long jump to round out the girls’ marks.

Grace Results

Men

100M - Bradley Schiele 12.96

200M - Bradley Schiele 26.37

400M - Parker Yost 56.78

Shot Put - Case Williams 30’3”, Luke Moss 29’4”

Discus - Case Williams 99’0”, Luke Moss 74’2”

Women

100M - Skyla Cloud 18.01

100M Hurdles - Alayna Smith 21.58, Skyla Cloud 23.02

300M Hurdles - Alayna Smith 59.72

Shot Put - Addison Wright 18’11”

Long Jump - Alayna Smith 11’1”, Addison Wright 10’10.5”

North Gem Results

Men

100M - Clay Johnson 13.14, Coy Hatch 14.33, Bryan Egley 14.45, John Roberts 15.31, McCoy Frandsen 16.11, Treysen Harding 16.14

200M - Clay Johnson 26.79, Alex Curtis 26.92, Stone Wight 28.76, Stockton Wight 28.96, Coy Hatch 29.10, Brandon Lee 33.05

400M - Stone Wight 1:00.90, Bryan Egley 1:03.68

800M - Stockton Wight 2:27.63, Coy Hatch 2:29.13

1600M - Stone Wight 5:39.04

4x100 Relay - Alex Curtis, Jeremiah

Tiger/Grizz Invitational

The Tiger/Grizz Invitational is the top high school track meet in Southeast Idaho each season. It brings in dozens of teams and some of the best athletes in Idaho and its surrounding states. Last weekend a select few of our local athletes had the opportunity to participate in the meet and some of them were even able to qualify for the finals and place quite well.

Those that qualified for finals were as follows:

Carter Mecham (Grace) 4th place in the 400 meters

Adrian Mejia (Grace) 25th place in the 800 meters

Adrian Mejia (Grace) 41st place in the 1600 meters

Landon Moldenhauer (Soda Springs) 39th place in the 3200 meters

Jonah Wilkerson (Grace) 4th place in the 300 meter hurdles

Cole Garbett (Soda Springs) 2nd

Perry, William Wakley, Clay Johnson 50.25

4x200 Relay - Alex Curtis, Jeremiah Perry, Clay Johnson, Stockton Wight 1:52.26

Shot Put - William Wakley 26’9”, John Roberts 24’11”, McCoy Fandsen 23’6.5”, Treysen Harding 21’10”

Discus - Bryan Egley 75’0”, John Roberts 67’10”, William Wakley 66’5”, McCoy Frandsen 60’7”, Treysen Harding 43’7”

Javelin - Stockton Wight 99’1”, Bryan Egley 81’11”, John Roberts 39’6”, McCoy Frandsen 36’1”

Long Jump - Alex Curtis 16’6”, Brandon Lee 12’5.5”

Triple Jump - Coy Hatch 32’1”, Brandon Lee 26’10”

Women

100M - Indyana Hatch 14.85, Gracie Christensen 14.96, Ciara O’Brien 17.52

200M - Gracie Christensen 30.99, Ciara O’Brien 36.68

400M - Gracie Christensen 1:09.65, Bailey Perkins 1:16.29

800M - Indyana Hatch 2:58.90

100M Hurdles - Mariah O’Brien 22.54

Shot Put - Madalyn Barnes 20’8”

Discus - Madalyn Barnes 92’0”, Bailey Perkins 43’4”

Javelin - Madalyn Barnes 72’3”, Ciara O’Brien 58’4”, Mariah O’Brien 41’5”

Long Jump - Indyana Hatch 14’8”, Madalyn Barnes 12’4.5”, Bailey Perkins 11’11”, Ciara O’Brien 11’8.5”, Mariah O’Brien 10’6.5”

Soda Results

Men

100M - Jaxson Horsley 12.35, Jordan Clarke 13.72, Kellen Garbett 13.85, Jay Liechty 13.87, Ky Gunn 13.98, Elias Green 14.55, Porter Barker 15.11, Ryan Barker 15.49

200M - Jaxson Horsley 24.67, Ky Gunn 27.43, Kellen Garbett 28.64, Elias Green 29.42, Porter Barker 31.98, Ryan Barker 32.44

400M - Jace Garbett 57.10, Elias Green 1:07.98, Porter Barker 1:10.05, Ryan Barker 1:13.37

800M - Kage Kirby 2:17.24, Johnathan Beutler 2:22.40, James Birch 2:25.84

1600M - Johnathan Beutler 5:18.21, James Birch 5:32.51

110M Hurdles - Blake Maughan 18.03

place in the shot put

Cole Garbett (Soda Springs) 1st place and new school record in the discus

Gavin Draper (Grace) 10th place in the javelin

Landon Moldenhauer (Soda Springs) 10th place in the pole vault

Brooklyn Porter (Grace) 15th place in the 800 meters

Ashley King (Grace) 33rd place in the 800 meters

300M Hurdles - Zayden Garbett 42.10, Blake Maughan 45.71, Caleb Hansen 47.14, Jordan Clarke 52.62

4x100 Relay - Owen Miller, Jace Garbett, Blake Maughan, Zayden Garbett 47.62, Jay Liechty, Caleb Hansen, Kellen Garbett, Bodie Kern 50.07

4x200 Relay - Owen Miller, Jace Garbett, Kage Kirby, Zayden Garbett 1:38.34, Jay Liechty, Ky Gunn, Jordan Clarke, Bodie Kern 1:44.32

Medley Relay - Zayden Garbett, Landon Martinsen, Jaxson Horsley, Kage Kirby 3:48.89

Shot Put - Cole Garbett 50’8.25”, Carson Cook 41’.5”, Zander Housley 31’.5”, Carson Golightly 20’2” Discus - Cole Garbett 164’8”, Carson Cook 106’11”, Blake Maughan 88’3”, Zander Housley 82’7”, Carson Golightly 37’4” Javelin - Carson Cook 112’5”, Zander Housley 86’0”, Johnathan Beutler 71’2”, Carson Golightly 30’11” Pole Vault - Jace Garbett 11’0” Long Jump - Landon Martinsen 19’8.5”, Bodie Kern 17’0”, Jay Liechty 14’9” Triple Jump - Jaxson Horsley 39’.5”

Women

100M - Madilyn Kempe 14.09, Emerey Lakey 14.58, Taylie Brewer 14.59, Riley Goode 14.97, Kristin Hansen 15.41, Danalee Frandsen 15.45, Ruth Allen 23.17 200M - Taylie Brewer 30.18, Emerey Lakey 30.43, Riley Goode 31.12, Danalee Frandsen 31.81, Ruth Allen 50.62

800M - Brinley Kunz 2:46.90 1600M - Brinley Kunz 6:16.62 4x100 Relay - Taylie Brewer, Emerey Lakey, Madilyn Kempe, Ameliarose Harris 54.46 4x200 Relay - Taylie Brewer, Riley Goode, Madilyn Kempe, Ameliarose Harris 1:53.06

Shot Put - Soleil Somsen 32’10.5”, Andi Carpenter 27’7.25”, Karlee Zander 17’11.5” Discus - Soleil Somsen 86’1”, Andi Carpenter 77’6”, Karlee Zander 57’11” Pole Vault - Ameliarose Harris 9’6” Long Jump - Emerey Lakey 13’7”, Kristin Hansen 13’5.5” Triple Jump - Kristin Hansen 27’8.5”

Brooklyn Porter (Grace) 15th place in the 1600 meters

Ellie Wood (Soda Springs) 19th place in the 1600 meters

Brielle Yost (Grace) 5th place in the Freshman 100 meter hurdles

Brielle Yost (Grace) 7th place in the Freshman shot put

Haiden Osborn (Grace) 35th in the discus

Rosie Harris (Soda Springs) 8th place in the pole vault