Caribou County | January 29, 2026

Enterprise The Idaho

brought a number of experts together from across the valley to discuss science, technology, engineering, and math topics in a fun way.

STEM Night at Thirkill

Last week, a number of community organizations came together to present a night of STEM activities to the Soda Springs community. Among those who participated were Bayer, Caribou County 4-H, PBS Kids, the Soda Springs Fire Department, and local volunteers like Bryan Jorgensen. The event was organized by Bonnie Speas and Cohlee Winward, community outreach facilitators with the Soda Springs School District. Students were able to select which of the sessions they were most interested in and spend an hour with their presenter(s) learning about one of the STEM fields represented. While there is no doubt that the interactive robotics session generated a lot of excitement, they were all well attended and enthusiastically joined.

Rachel Hamilton, with the University of Idaho Extension Office and Caribou County 4-H program, led the class on robotics. The teaching materials and construction sets were provided through a grant from UI designed to bring STEM activities into classrooms in Idaho, particularly for third and fourth graders. “Usually, when I teach in the schools, we work together to build an amusement park. And one of

my favorite things to build is the Ferris Wheel,” Hamilton began, introducing the evening’s project to the packed room. As the evening wore on, she led groups of kids and parents through the design basics and robotics concepts. Across the hall, Cheryl Kimber of PBS’ community outreach program presented basic concepts in coding to a group of students eager to learn more about the world of computer programming and game design.

Members of the Soda Springs Fire Department demonstrated some of the equipment used during firefighting to another classroom, and explained some of the scientific basics underwriting how fires work, and therefore how they can be prevented or extinguished. Chief Dan Squires gave an overview of Personal Protective Equipment, as well as the fire triangle.

Troy McCurdy, Alan Renfroe, and Brock Sturm from Bayer presented sessions on design issues, as well as drone operation. Groups were also able to work at small engineer projects connected to the concepts laid out during the presentations. In both cases, questions came fast and furious as the speakers discussed their experiences with engineering.

Bryan Jorgensen gave a library classroom full of listeners an overview of the principles of aviation science and mechanics, after which groups worked to create their own Styrofoam aircraft and test them out.

The STEM night was well attended, and a good chance for community members to present their knowledge and resources in a shared space, which has been the mission for Bonnie Speas and Cohlee Winward as the Community Coordinators for the Soda Springs School District. Their position was created from a United Way grant, and is designed to bring different resources in smaller communities like Soda Springs together in common purpose. This involves connecting groups with questions to those with answers, and those with needs to those with ways to meet them.

Looking forward, the next big event planned for the group is the February 2 screening and discussion of the documentary “Childhood 2.0,” which explores issues of growing up and raising kids in the digital age. It will be followed by a panel discussion on the topic,, and will take place at the Idanha Theatre in Soda Springs at 6:30 p.m. on Feb 2.

Murder-Suicide rocks Star Valley

News broke last Wednesday about a murder-suicide on the Idaho side of the border near Freedom, Wyoming. This report is based on information from the Wyoming Tribune Eagle, East Idaho News, and the Bonneville and Lincoln County Sheriffs Offices.

A 911 call was received by Bonneville County dispatchers at 8:06 in the morning. The caller was identified as Christopher Moon, 43, of Afton, Wyoming. He claimed to be in possession of a firearm, and told dispatchers that he intended to shoot himself.

Jackknife Road was closed at Stateline Road west of the Wyoming border to the location of the scene, which saw the deployment of “more than a dozen law enforcement officers and other officials,” according to reporting from the scene. A Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit from BCSO and other officers were assisted by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office as well as the Star Valley Ambulance service.

BCSO reported that soon after deputies arrived at the area, vehicles belonging to Christopher Moon and his wife, 23-year old Cassandra Moon (also known as Cassie Clinger), of Freedom, were parked on the side of the road.

It was reported that Deputies established brief contact with Christopher

over the phone, and attempted to convince him to surrender peacefully. He was shortly afterward observed using the gun to shoot himself. Deputies approached the vehicles, finding both Christopher and Cassandra deceased from apparent gunshot wounds.

It was determined that Cassandra had been shot by Christopher.

Officials stated that there were no other people on the scene and no other injuries, including any of Cassandra’s children. Deputies spent several hours collecting evidence from the scene, and the investigation is still ongoing.

A GoFundMe titled “In Memory of Cassie Clinger” has already raised more than $50,000 as of Monday afternoon toward its goal of $60,000. It reads, in part: “It is with unimaginable heartbreak that we share the passing of Cassie Clinger. Her loss has left a profound void in the lives of everyone who knew and loved her. Cassie was

a devoted mother whose love for her children knew no bounds. This fundraiser has been created to help support them during this devastating time and to honor Cassie’s life.

Funds raised will go toward:

• Funeral and memorial expenses for Cassie

• Immediate and ongoing support for Cassie’s kids including basic needs, stability, and care

• Any additional unforeseen expenses as the family navigates this profound loss

No amount can ease the pain of this tragedy, but your generosity can help relieve some of the financial burden and provide support to the children Cassie loved so deeply.

If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping this family in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for honoring Cassie with your compassion, love, and support during this incredibly difficult time.”

The site can be found by searching for “In Memory of Cassie Clinger” on GoFundMe. In addition, a Facebook auction group has been created titled “Caring for Cassie.” Donated items from businesses and individuals will be auctioned off, with proceeds going toward Cassie’s family.

Severe Storm blankets country

One of January’s most reliable features is a “storm of the century” that creates havoc across the country. The weekend saw just such a storm descend across much of the eastern half of the U.S., with temperature and precipitation effects reaching the Rocky Mountains and Great Plains. The most serious conditions involve those along a path from east Texas to West Viriginia, where power outages affected more than a million customers.

Combined with the heavy snowfall and windy conditions, repair work on infrastructure has been at a standstill in some locations, causing continued strain on powergrids. At least 12 deaths had been reported as of press time, from Tennessee to Kansas, with causes ranging from hypothermia to accidents caused by snowfall. The most frigid temperatures are being seen in the Great Lakes region, with sustained lows of 20 below, and much lower with wind chill added in. Heavy snowfall of over a foot in many places unaccustomed to winter conditions is creating chaos on roads. 33 states are under severe cold warnings and alerts, with ice advisories remaining in effect, despite the bulk of the storm itself having passed through.

MN crackdown in focus

The fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, the second protestor in Minnesota to be killed by DHS actions in three weeks, has caused widespread ripple effects throughout both the federal agencies involved and the justice system at large. Greg Bovino, the administration official who has been most visibly associated with the ICE actions in the state, will effectively be sidelined and the “border czar” Tom Homan is taking over command of the scene. A wide range of voices, including increasing numbers of GOP politicians— including Trump administration officials from his first term—have called for an urgent review of the situation in Minnesota, and a potential halt to the crackdown until the situation has de-escalated. A Trump-appointed federal judge issued an order prohibiting DHS from hiding or destroying evidence related to Pretti’s shooting. Videos of the killing have circulated widely online and in reporting, calling into question the claims made by officials.

Wolf Reward increased

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks announced this week that the reward for information about a wolf killed out-of-season has increased by $30,000. FWP originally announced a $1,000 reward for information on a wolf killed in wolf management unit 313, just north of Yellowstone National Park. The three-wolf quota for the unit was reached by hunters in mid-November, but wildlife officials found a wolf collar cut off an animal and thrown into a tree in late December. Game wardens believe the collared wolf was killed around 10 p.m., on Christmas Day. The Large Carnivore Fund and Wolves of the Rockies together offered the additional $30,000 reward for information to help wildlife officials.

Anyone with possible information is encouraged to contact Gardiner game warden Kameron Rauser at (406) 224-5207 or visit tipmont.mt.gov to provide details.

City Council—Soda Springs

Last week’s January 21st City Council meeting in Soda Springs was the first to see the full attendance of the newly sworn in mayor and city council members, as well as Director of City Services Dan Squires.

Community Garden

Naccona Gentry, representing the Community Garden (with a primary location east of the Presbyterian Church) spoke to the council about putting out a mailer about upcoming events with the city utility bill. The CG wants people to be aware that there is flower bed availability, and that planting can begin when weather permits.

She also informed the council that they received a grant for a freeze drier. They are thinking about adding theirs to the library to allow for more use of the popular service, but there will need to be a new circuit in the library building to allow for it. The Community Garden would donate the use of the drier, but the circuit would cost $1300 at the library.

Library Director Hope Hansen said that it is likely an additional drier would get used a lot, especially in the fall. The plan would be for Community Garden members to have priority, but otherwise it would be open for everyone.

“I think this is a great idea,” Councilman Ryan Carpenter stated. “This has my full support, and we should upgrade the library with the new circuit.” Director Squires did not see any issues with safety as a result. A motion to fund the cirucuit passed.

Molly Besaris

Besaris serves on 4CASI, which is a group that supports economic growth in local communities. She is devoted to “improving the quality of life for communities,” which he explained can be done in several ways, such as collaboration with officials, businesses, leaders, etc. “I couldn’t do what I do without the input and planning of all of you,” she said.

Besaris is always looking for funding and grant opportunities, which she called “crucial for growth.”

She discussed some of the programs and grants projects that she has worked on and has on her radar,

including “Age-Friendly Community” programs, Main Street and Downtown projects, and more. “I would like to see all those storefronts full,” she said, of Main street.

She is currently working on an economic plan in partnership with Bengal Solutions, which is an organization at Idaho State University’s College of Business. Students assigned to the project provide analysis and feedback on issues for local communities. The project is on a semester break, and new students will be reviewing it.

With the School District, she has been talking about Hooper School and the possibilities, hoping to take it from being a mostly unused building.

Some discussion of the potential for light rail to come to town was held. Besaris said that she is working on a committee that is looking at rail options for a potential light rail to SLC from Boise, though it is unlikely it would pass through Caribou County.

Enders

Besaris has also been involved on a committee to discuss the options for the Enders building. She feels that the building is an econ opportunities. The group has hosted tours, including state and agency representatives. “Everyone I’ve talked to has a different idea about what they want it to become,” she stated.

She stated that she thought the recently adopted rental policy for the building was “a great use of the facility.” She also noted that the city needed to move to longer term strategic planning. A feasibility study, and an executable plan where her next-step suggestions.

“It is a great idea to turn it into a park, but what does that look like?”

“What I would like to do is continue and assist the community and state leaders who have been involved,” she said. There will have to be public input sessions to discuss the different assets that the city has and how can we use those the best for the community.

She anticipated that it would take at least 6-12 months before an executable plan was likely to be complete. “We want to make sure we have a plan that has the feel of the community.”

Besaris will look for grants to fund a feasibility study to begin the process. A study for Preston’s rec center was

granted for $50K and a 10% match.

The local Enders committee also includes mayor Paul Gritton, and has grown over the tenure of the proposal.

Senator Harris, Representative Veile, Superintendent Scott Muir, representatives from the BLM and Parks and Rec, as well as Bayer and others, have all taken part.

Friends of the Library

Friends of the Soda Springs Library

President Beth Cheirrett reported that they Festival of Trees was very successful, and that they hoped to hold it at the Enders again next year. “I would love to have it there for as long as we’re still making money,” she said. She noted that the space and accommodations were perfect for the event.

Councilman Carpenter stated that, “there was something there for everyone. You guys hit a homerun.”

Cheirrett noted that “The 39 entries were all local. That’s a lot for a town this size. I have to also thank the 4 main sponsors—CMC, Grittons, Lookout, and Soda Smiles. This event takes a lot of preparation and moving parts, but I think we’re figuring it out.” She had spoken to officials involved with Pocatello’s Festival of Trees, who mentioned that Soda’s had as much involvement, which was impressive.

Project Updates

Director Squires reported that the city is still working on gathering information on the highway project. The completion date has been pushed back to October.

Council President Hart stated that he would like to see a number of issues move forward: lease renewals at the industrial park and airport, West-end water users agreement, and the Ledger Creek trail.

Director Squires reported that he and councilmembers have met and gone over the history of the airport and industrial park. He would like to set up a meeting with the Industrial Park lessees to talk about their plans and concerns. Councilman Larsen will be taking on the lease discussions for the IP and the AP.

Councilman Carpenter will be taking charge on the West End water users deal.

Property owners on Highway 30

were discussed. ITD is open to going door to door to explain the project calendar to homeowners.

The council expressed an intention of helping Director Squires out as much as possible as he gets a handle handle on the added responsibilities of his position.

Recreation

Director Jessica Thurman reported that the ribbon cutting for ice rink was a huge success.

They are hoping to implement a new Nerf Gun league. It will be for all ages, kids and adults. They have some inflatable barricades already, and would like to host games at the Hooper school. It will be cosmic, under black lights. All the bullets will get dipped in glow paint. The bullets will be supplied, but participants will have to bring your own nerf guns. Councilman Larsen noted that “The cobwebs just add to the ambience.” If enough snow comes in, they are still planning for the sled hill.

Fire Department

Chief Squires talked about the fire department turnout purchases. The current ones were purchased in 2012. The money recently donated to the department from Ireland bank was earmarked for that purpose. A top of the line turnout set is $3379 a piece, times 15. The total cost would be $33-35K after the donation from Ireland Bank. President Hart wanted to know if they could push it to next year. Chief Squires said that they would be ok within the budget. “We can make it work,” he said.

Mayor Gritton stated that “I support this because they [SSFD] keep us safe.” Squires added that “We owe it to them to make sure that everybody is safe. We do get 10 years out of them.” It was stated that the Fire Department is usually around $20K under the budget, and Squires added that “I’d rather cut something else than cut my guys safety.”

Mayor Gritton stated that “I would like to formally thank Ireland Bank for that tremendous presentation.”

Chief Golightly added that “for perspective, our vests cost $5K, so you’re getting a good deal.”

Bancroft City Council Report—December

These are adapted minutes from the December city council meeting. While the January meetings have occurred, for the sake of public access to council reports, last month’s report is being included here. January’s report will be included in next week’s paper, bringing the reporting current. Several ongoing issues were covered in the December meeting, and it was also the final meeting for Mayor LuCus Spencer and Councilmember Eric Christensen.

SICOG/Park Grant

SICOG’s (Southeast Idaho Council of Governments) Amanda Collins congratulated the city for receiving the $242,000 park grant. The next step is to complete an environmental review. One of the mandatory review items is

proving that the park is not in a flood plain. Clerk Swensen provided Collins with a copy of the FEMA documents including a map showing the remaining properties in the flood zone. The city will need to go through the state’s procurement process.

The city has already passed the required resolution and will get extra points for having a grant administrator listed. There are 476 compliance points that will be communicated along the way to satisfy the state and federal guidelines. They will want to communicate with city council as to what they want as we go. Collins asked if one of the council members would be a point of contact for the council, but noted that no decisions will be made without the entire council approval. Council member Thurman volunteered to be the

point of contact. Collins would like to have the project completed and closed out within two. years. The next step going forward is to complete the environmental review and submit it. The city will need to go through the procurement process, which will include a lot of paperwork. Several proposals will need to be reviewed by city council. Amanda explained that if council does not agree to putting in a pickleball court it is possible to change the scope of the project as long as council is able to show reason and proof of change.

CM Vawser made a motion to sign the contract and assign Cm, Thurman as a council contact.

Motion passed 4-0.

Forsgren Engineers

Aaron from Forsgren stopped by to check on the progress at the 1st South drainage project before the meeting.

CM Vawser has concerns about this project not being complete. The river rock used has created a very rough surface and will cause the residents to circle all the way around it to get to their shed. It needs to be compacted by the resident’s shop. Mayor Spencer has talked to the residents about bringing in some smaller rock which will make

the surface smooth for crossing over.

CM Vawser is also concerned about the elevation where the two gutters out in front of the old Harris residence. They seem to be higher than before the project and could cause pooling of water in that area. The engineer and Mayor Spencer will go assess the situation. Aaron updated council on the Sewer Facility Planning Study. He has made some updates to the costs. Aaron reviewed the 3 different options including, rehabbing the existing lagoons, Mechanical Treatment plant, or do nothing. The do-nothing option is a required option when doing an FPS. Another option they often look at is called regionalized systems which would require pumping everything out of town to another facility like Grace, Lava, or Soda. Aaron informed council that this is not feasible. The mechanical treatment option would cost approximately $12 million and the city would have to be staffed with a level 4 operator. The O&M on a mechanical plant is a substantial cost. The general cost without any plans on rehabbing the lagoons is about 6 million dollars. The city may

4

Legislative Weekly Updates

Senator Mark Harris, LD35 — Week #1, ending Jan 16, 2026

The 2nd Regular Session of the 68th Legislature began this week with the State of the State address from Governor Brad Little. This year, he noted a change from years of budget surpluses to a year that “demands restraint.” The Governor introduced a new fiscal roadmap he is calling his “Enduring Idaho” plan, which includes a two-year budget strategy that emphasizes fiscal restraint after reports of recent revenue declines.

This declining revenue is largely due to the slight downturn in the Idaho Economy, income tax reductions from the nearly $500 million tax cuts passed last year, and uncertainty from the tax reductions of the Big Beautiful Bill that was passed by Congress and President Trump. It will be some time before we know the full impact of those numbers.

It is important to emphasize that even though revenue growth has slowed, the Idaho economy remains strong as Governor Little noted in his speech. We have solid reserves and a strong credit rating. The Governor proposed spending cuts and budget tightening to address the state’s slowing revenue. These cuts include a 3 percent cut in all state departments including reduced Medicaid spending to balance the budget without raising

taxes. The Governor wants about $45 million in Medicaid cuts, but not a repeal of Medicaid Expansion.

The Governor proposed to protect K-12 public education funding. He emphasized continued support for workforce training and the Idaho Launch program citing its success in keeping Idaho kids in Idaho schools to help them enter high-demand jobs.

The Governor’s State of the State address was somewhat light on details, and it is now up to the legislature to begin work on setting the budgets for the State. The Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee (JFAC) that sets these budgets has a new co-chair on the House side with Representative Josh Tanner (14) who was appointed after Representative Wendy Horman (32) resigned to accept a position with the Trump Administration. We will observe any operational changes that may arise from this transition.

I am happy to have the opportunity to work with our new representative from Legislative District 35, Representative Mike Veile. He is excited to serve and will be a benefit to our area. I will continue to serve as the Senate Assistant Majority Leader this session and I will also continue to serve on the Senate State Affairs, Senate Health and Welfare, and Senate Resources and Environment Committees. It is an honor and privilege to serve the good people of Legislative District 35. Please feel free to reach out with concerns or issues at mharris.senate. Idaho.gov or call 208-322-1429.

Week #2, ending Jan 23, 2026

This legislative session seems to have started out at a quicker pace more than past sessions. We have begun to undertake the “Rules Review” process as usual, which will take a couple of weeks to complete. So far, nothing very controversial has been presented, but we are expecting some new proposed rules from the Idaho Fish and Game that has drawn quite a bit of attention regarding the use of certain technologies and “fair chase.” These rules might be introduced in the next week or two. We will see how they go and what questions arise.

This week the Soil and Water districts from around the state came to Boise to share some of the projects they have been working on at home. It is always good to visit them and see how they are improving their areas. We also were visited by Idaho water users from around the state. Water seems to be on the mind of everyone, especially this year with the extreme snowfall shortage.

The state budget is the main topic of discussion so far this session, as the state is experiencing a budget shortfall. The Joint Finance and Appropriation Committee (JFAC) was presented with a budget projection number, which is a good thing to establish setting the budgets for the various departments. The Eco-

nomic Outlook and Revenue Assessment Committee (EORAC) voted on projected state revenues for FY 2026 and FY 2027. This is a positive sign that budget proposals will start to move through the legislative process earlier than last year. The Senate supports a careful, conservative approach and we have advocated for a responsible and steady plan by having a projection before we start spending taxpayer funds.

This will be a tight budget year and there will be cuts to some budgets. One of these areas will be some parts of Medicaid. I have been receiving several phone calls and emails regarding the Katie Beckett program which is a specialized service provided through Medicaid that helps take care of little kids. This program is crucial to families and kids that are disabled and must receive different types of therapy to improve their lives. I have been communicating and working with the Governor’s office to make sure this program does not get cut as it is needed by these families. It is still early in the session, and we will continue to work on this issue.

Please keep reaching out to me with your concerns and questions and I will do my best to respond. I appreciate those that are reaching out.

Free Dental Services

Rep. Josh Wheeler — Week Two Update

As we wrap up the second week of the legislative session, the pace is definitely picking up. A number of bills have now been introduced, committees are settling into their work, and the conversations are moving quickly from big-picture priorities to real policy choices.

One of the highlights of the week was a great kickoff to Idaho’s America250 celebration. It was a meaningful moment to reflect on our shared history and the values that have shaped our state. We also had the chance to hear the newly commissioned Idaho Forever song, which was a powerful reminder of the pride and stewardship Idahoans feel for this place we call home.

We also heard from Idaho’s Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, who spoke thoughtfully about the role the judiciary plays in maintaining community health and safety. It

was a good reminder that a strong, well-functioning government depends on each branch doing its job—often quietly, but critically— to uphold the rule of law and protect our communities.

Much of my own time this week has been focused on finding workable solutions for Health & Welfare funding. With budget pressures becoming clearer, conversations are underway about how we maintain critical services while staying fiscally responsible. One option being discussed is the careful use of budget stabilization funds as part of a broader solution, and I’ll continue to engage in those discussions with an eye toward long-term stability, not short-term fixes.

As always, I appreciate hearing from you. These early weeks set the tone for the rest of the session, and your input helps guide where I focus my time and energy. I look forward to keeping you updated as things continue to move forward.

Josh

Wheeler Idaho State Representative

Education, Taxes, and Tough Budget Choices: What Week Two Meant for District 35

By

Representative

The second week was another fascinating and fulfilling experience at the capitol. I am grateful to be able to serve District 35 and humbled at the incredible honor. It is one of the best experiences of my life to sit on the floor of the house. Every decision made on the House floor this session affects taxes, schools, and services back home. Week two made that reality very clear.

Decisions made here have real consequences back home, and it’s amazing how busy it is. Meeting with so many people and furthering my relationships with the great legislators and administrators here in Idaho. There are truly great people here, especially my East Idaho Colleagues.

The week started off meeting with many public-school teachers from across Idaho. These educators are committed and passionate. I so appreciate their work and the challenges they face. The IRI reading scores also came out this week for K-3. Two school districts from District 35 ranked in the top 10 for public schools: North Gem in Bancroft and Swan Valley Elementary. For large districts, Idaho Falls and Pocatello were in the top 10 list. Charter schools rank highest overall, but North Gem is in that list too. The success of North Gem and Swan Valley reflects the work happening every day by our local teachers, parents, and communities.

Mike Veile

tax year. This is another revenue reduction that was not planned for during last years legislative session and is therefore a new impact to deal with this year. It is almost certain that the Idaho Legislature will conform to the One Big Beautiful Bill and mimic tax policy for the state to that of federal.

Cuts are also being applied to Medicaid. The Health and Welfare committee is going through the details to see where those cuts can be applied most judiciously and minimize impact. A lot of discussion there. The state budget is about ½ K-12 education so requiring cuts while keeping education whole has an outsized effect on other agencies. Next week, we should begin to see the actual bill on conforming and some actual revenue numbers to set the targets and more detailed impacts to items like Medicaid.

To prevent oral diseases in children, Southeastern Idaho Public Health is partnering with Idaho State University Dental Hygiene Department, Pocatello Family Dentistry, and area dentists to provide a free day of dental care. This annual program, Give Kids A Smile, is by appointment only and will be held in Pocatello, on Saturday, February 7th from 9:00 am- 1:00 pm at the Idaho State University Dental Hygiene Clinic, 999 Martin Luther King Drive (Building #37).

Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease found in children. The social impact of oral diseases in children is substantial. More than 51 million school hours are lost each year to dental-related illness. Pain and suffering due to untreated diseases can lead to problems in eating, speaking, and attending to learning.

Education discussions continue around trying to keep funding whole. However, some funding will likely come from online institutions including Idaho Digital Learning Academy (IDLA) as well as some other online charters schools. This is still being developed to determine the final outcome for the budget balancing. Education remains a top priority in a tight budget year.

Families that have children in need of dental services that do not have dental insurance or have limited access to dental care can call Dana Solomon at Southeastern Idaho Public Health at 208.239.5256 to schedule an appointment. If more information is needed, please call April Sluder at 208.478.6314.

The dominant topic of the 2026 session the issue of conformity. This entails conforming to the One Big Beautiful Bill for tax relief on items like overtime and tips as well as corporate tax exemptions for research and experimentation. This is another general tax cut of about $155M/year. The challenge to the state of Idaho is that this is to include retractive implementation for 2025

This week Governor Desantis from Florida was in Boise to talk about a balanced budget amendment to the constitution. This is being facilitated through a state convention. If enough states sign on to the convention, a state convention to develop a balanced budget amendment is called. Thirty-four states are needed to call for this amendment and right now 28 states have signed on. Signing on to this convention happens through a vote of the state legislature. If a convention is called by 34 states and they agree on language, 38 states must ratify it to make the amendment valid; this is a high hurdle. The federal debt is an existential problem for all of us from a fiscal and personal financial standpoint. This issue needs to be addressed sooner than later. If the national congress is unable to address this the states can through article 5 of the constitution. With federal interest payments consuming a growing share of national revenue, states are increasingly concerned about long-term economic stability. While the bar for a constitutional amendment is intentionally high, the conversation reflects frustration many Idahoans share: Washington’s inability to live within its means.

My responsibility during the legislative session is to serve the people of District 35. I welcome your thoughts, questions, and concerns. You can reach me by email MVeile@ house.idaho.gov, on Substack, or through social media, and I encourage you to stay in touch as this work continues.

Soluble Fiber vs Insoluble Fiber

BY JACQUE HALL RDN, LDN

Fiber is a carbohydrate that the body does not digest.

There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Both are important and have different functions.

Soluble Fiber

Soluble Fiber dissolves in water, forms a gel, slows the digestion process and glucose absorption rate benefiting blood sugar control for people with Diabetes. It is also beneficial for weight loss, lowers LDL cholesterol. Foods high in soluble fiber include oats, legumes, dried beans and peas, fruits, vegetables, nuts, flaxseed, and psyllium husk. (1)

Insoluble Fiber

Insoluble Fiber is the type of fiber that does not absorb water and its primary function is to provide bulk to stool, aid in the movement through the digestive tract preventing constipation, promoting a regular bowel movement, and maintaining proper pH acidity that helps in preventing colon cancer. (1) You can find insoluble fiber in foods such as dark green leafy vegetables, edible plant skins, nuts and seeds, wheat bran, and whole-grain

Bancroft

be able to reign in the costs once we get into the designs. If the city is able to rehab fewer cells, the cost will less. This price includes lift station upgrades and possibly adding aeration to the system due to the black liner holding everything in and not letting anything leak into the ground. The costs generally go up as more time goes by.

Lund Road Safety Concerns

Tara Nelson has concerns about vehicles speeding as they come into town off of Lund Road. The speed limit is currently 25 mph, but vehicles and trucks are going 40 to 55 mph. Tara told council about several situations she and her neighbors have witnessed. Tara is worried that someone is going to get hurt if something is not done. Kids are crossing the road from the school and from the church to got to the store. Deborah Hill suggested putting up additional signage to slow traffic more gradually as they come into town from Lund Road.

Tara is concerned that grain trucks are going at least 40 MPH and are also using their Jake brakes to slow down instead of shifting down. Tara commented that most towns have a compression brake prohibited sign and codes in place for this issue.

CM Eric Christensen suggested putting a dip across the road. CM Trevor Parsons suggested working with the county and installing more signs to gradually slow the traffic coming off of Lund Road.

foods like whole-wheat pasta and brown rice. Most diets have a combination of soluble and insoluble fiber, with 75 percent coming from insoluble fiber and 25 percent coming from soluble fiber. (1) Recommended fiber intake is 25-29 grams a day. (9)

Fruit

Passion fruit (1 cup): 25g, 100%

Breadfruit (1 cup): 11g, 44%

Raspberries (1 cup): 8g, 32%

Blackberries (1 cup): 8g, 32%

Boysenberries and gooseberries (1 cup): 7g, 28%

Pear (1 medium): 6g, 24%

bump for that road or condition. Tara asked if there is any reason why our county police officers cannot patrol those streets.

Council explained that they do patrol Bancroft streets, but cannot set designated time here due to not having a contract. A contract could be upwards of $80k. Mayor Spencer commented that the deputies go through Bancroft but do not spend a lot of time here, due to the having a large area to cover.

Mayor Spencer will contact the county about installing a reduced speed ahead sign and the city will put in a 25 MPH sign in city limits. Tara asked if it would help to contact the granary regarding the excessive use of jake brakes and speeding. Council explained that trucks going there are privately owned and not the responsibility of the business owner.

CM Vawser suggested Tara do a citizen citation to get the county’s attention.

Nissell Baker stated that she has done this several times and is aware of how it works. She asked if the city could declare the section of road by the football field a school zone. Deborah Hill stated that the kids are using the streets for PE class and the streets are not safe. Nissell Baker commented that the teenagers are doing 40 mph through town and the city needs to reduce the speed in school zones for the safety of the kids.

Apples (medium-sized, with skin): 4.4g, 18%

Blueberries (1 cup): 3.6 g, 14%

Bananas (medium size): 3.1g, 12%

Prunes (5 pieces): 3g, 12%

Strawberries (1 cup): 2g, .08%

Vegetables

Artichoke (1 large): 9g, 36%

Green peas (1 cup): 8g, 32%

Sweet potato (½ cup, mashed): 4g, 16%

Baked potato with skin (1 medium): 4.0, 16%

Beets (1 cup): 3.8g, 15%

Carrots (1 cup raw): 3.6 g, 14%

Sweet corn (1 cup): 3.5g, 14%

Brussel sprouts (1 cup): 3.3g, 12%

that the city has jurisdiction to define the speed limit in the school zones and pass a compression brakes ordinance if they chose.

Livestock amendment

CM Jessica Vawser would like to clarify that this amendment will remove the grandfather clause and no longer allow bee hives. The city attorney stated that this amendment will remove previously existing uses that have allowed animals in restricted zones due to the grandfather clause. Bee hives will not be allowed going forward. CM Vawser asked about the section discussing poultry and commented that the city has a chicken ordinance that allows 15 chickens and no roosters. CM Parsons suggested leaving poultry in and just referencing the chicken ordinance.

Resident Nissell Baker asked council if this amendment will make it so the city cannot allow a case-by-case permit for certain circumstances. Mayor Spencer explained that this amendment will remove the grandfather clause that has allowed people to have unauthorized animals in zones that do not allow them going forward. Nissell asked council why someone with a smaller lot is allowed to have 15 chickens.

Grains Raisin Bran (1 cup): 7g, 28%

Spaghetti, whole wheat (1cup): 6g, 24%

Shredded wheat (2 biscuits): 6g, 24%

Oat bran (1 cup): 6g, 24%

Bran flakes (3/4 cup): 5.5g, 22%

Quinoa, cooked (1 cup): 5g, 20%

Oat bran muffin (1 med) 5g, 20%

Brown rice (1 cup): 4g, 16%

Psyllium, (1 tsp, 5 grams) 4g, 16%

Popcorn, air-popped (3 cups): 3.5g, 14%

Legumes, Nuts and Seed

Split peas (1 cup cooked): 16.3g, 65%

Lentils (½ cup, dried): 8g, 32%

Black beans (1cup, cooked): 15g, 60%

Kidney beans 1 cup, cooked): 12.2g, 49%

Chia seeds (1 ounce (oz)): 10g, 40%

Lima beans (1 cup): 9g, 36%

Flaxseeds (1 oz): 6g, 24%

Pumpkin seeds (1oz): 5g, 20%

Almonds (1 oz): 4g, 16%

* Based on 25g of fiber

Fiber is a carbohydrate that the body does not digest. Therefore, for every gram of fiber you eat, you can subtract that number from your total carbohydrate count.

properly cared for. She commented that she has a larger lot than most people in Bancroft but is limited to the number of chickens she can have due to city code.

CM Parsons mentioned that chickens were not an issue when the code was implemented but due to covid restrictions and hardship to buy eggs, the city passed the ordinance quickly to allow residents a way to produce eggs. Mayor Spencer suggested that Nissell submit a Special Use application to the city for council review. The city attorney advised the city to leave poultry in the new code and just reference the existing chicken ordinance. These codes can be easily updated as needed. The attorney will make the wording changes and send the revised copy when completed.

CM Eric Christensen read the new ordinance in full. The city will publish the title summary and have copies available for review.

CM Trevor Parsons made a motion to approve the amended code Title 5 CM Jessica Vawser seconded the motion. Motion passed 4-0.

Council & Staff Reports

Council discussed re-installing the speed bumps but concluded they are not the correct type of speed

Maintenance workers stated that they just got the new 25 mph signs in the last couple days and will get them put up. Council will further discuss signage and lowering speed in school zones.

The city attorney informed council

PET CORNER

AT

THE

Why Dental Health Matters for Pets

Keep your pets close, and don’t let bad breath and dental disease drive you apart! Dental healthis a vital— but often overlooked—part of a pet’s

overall well-being. Just like people, dogs and cats can develop plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth, which can lead to painful dental disease if left untreated. Annual dental cleanings are one of the most effective ways to protect your pet’s health and comfort throughout their life. When plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar and causes inflam-

CM Jessica Vawser explained that the code states that if the animals become a nuisance for neighbors, the city has the right to put restrictions on the owner. Resident Baker asked why the current chicken ordinance isn’t written to allow so many chickens per square foot of land. Nissell commented that it is animal cruelty if chickens are contained in small containers on small lots because they are not being

mation of the gums, known as gingivitis. Over time, this can progress to periodontal disease, leading to tooth loss, chronic pain, and infection. Bacteria from the mouth can also enter the bloodstream and affect major organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. Many pets continue to eat despite dental pain, meaning problems often go unnoticed until disease is advanced. Just because a pet is still eating, does not mean that they aren’t in pain.

Regular dental cleanings performed by a veterinarian allow for thorough removal of plaque and tartar below the gumline—an area that cannot be safely cleaned at home. Dental procedures also include a comprehensive oral examination, dental charting, and dental radiographs, allowing veterinarians to identify issues such as fractured teeth, infections, or abscesses early, before they become more serious and costly to treat. Good oral health offers many benefits beyond a clean smile. Pets with healthy mouths often experience fresher breath, less discomfort, and improved quality of life. Studies

Mayor Spencer commented that he was pleased with the attendance for the Lighting of Teuscher Square. The high school kids that helped and wore costumes had a lot of fun and want to help again next year.

The polar bear costume got a broken zipper and will need repairs. Clerk Swensen will take it to a seamstress this week. Caribou Memorial did a great job fund raising for the fire department. Donations for burgers and hot dogs totaled $653.00. continued from page 2

show that yearly dental cleanings combined with other routine wellness care can extend a pet’s life by 2 years! Maintaining dental health can also reduce the risk of systemic illness and help pets live longer, healthier lives. To encourage proactive dental care, Soda Springs Animal Clinic is offering a dental cleaning special during the months of February and March. During this time, dental procedures will be discounted, making it easier for pet owners to address their pet’s oral health needs. Appointments are limited, and we offer complimentary dental exams to ensure that pets are healthy enough for the procedure. Pet owners are encouraged to schedule early, as dental spots tend to fill quickly.

If you notice signs such as bad breath, red or bleeding gums, difficulty chewing, or pawing at the mouth, it may be time for a dental evaluation. Preventative dental care is one of the best investments you can make in your pet’s long-term health. For more information or to schedule a dental cleaning, please contact Soda Springs Animal Clinic.

SENIOR CITIZENS’ CORNER February 2026

February 2026 Nutrition Article

February is well known as “American Heart Month”. Heart disease if the #1 leading cause of deaths in the U.S. Below are some tips and items to keep in mind while promoting one’s heart health.

• Choose more unsaturated fats and less saturated fats

o Saturated fats include: those that stay solid at room temperature

 Butter

 Animal Fats (Lard, steaks, sausage, etc)

o Unsaturated fats include: those that are liquid at room temperature

 Olive oil, vegetable oil, avocados, etc.

• Consuming less salt

o Rinse any frozen and canned foods, salt is often used as a preservative. Thoroughly rinse under running water a couple of times will help to reduce sodium content

o Keep the salt shaker off the table! We often salt our food before tasting it.

o Look for sodium substitutes i.e. Seasoning, citrus, herbs (fresh or dry)

• Encourage foods rich in omega-3

fatty acids, as they promote positive heart health by reducing triglycerides in one’s blood serum

o Fish (especially salmon), avocados, olive oil, walnuts, flaxseeds, etc

With all the dietary tips listed above, it’s important to remember that exercise also plays such an important role in heart health. Understandably so, with colder temperatures we tend to stay indoors during this time. Get creative and use any resources available to you: walk a few laps at your indoor mall if able or grab a friend and walk/stretch/ lift light weights (i.e. cans of food)

Seasonal foods in February?

• Citrus fruits- oranges, limes, grapefruit, etc.

• Fennel, cabbage, broccoli

• Pomegranate

Dark chocolate has many heart health properties compared to milk or semisweet. Dark chocolate is very high in flavonoids, a specific type of antioxidants (also found in wine, apples, etc) that has been shown to decrease risk of heart disease, cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes, and blood clots.

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

BRAIN TEASERS

Dark Chocolate Covered Treats

Ingredients 2 regular size dark chocolate candy bars (or 6 oz of bagged dark chocolate chips)

2 cups of fruit and nuts, any kind!

• Strawberries, blueberries, pitted cherries, bananas, etc.

• Dried cranberries, raisins

• Pistachios and pecans (shell taken off)

Directions

Line a baking pan with wax paper.

In a microwave safe bowl add in dark chocolate and melt for 30-second intervals, mixing in between. Once dark chocolate has melted, submerge half way all fruits and nuts, one at a time. Lay out on a wax paper lined pan. Once complete, set in the refrigerator for at least 5 min until solid. Enjoy this simple, rich and heart healthy treat!

Caribou County Senior Citizens' Menu

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

Jan. 30- Beef Enchilada, Green Salad, Mandarins, Green Rice, Smore Cookies

Feb. 4 - Chicken Fried Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Carrots, Mandarins, Oatmeal Bread, Strawberry Shortcake

Feb. 6 - Sweet & Sour Chicken, Rice, Pineapple, French Bread, Brownies

Feb. 11 - Taco Soup, Spinach Strawberry Salad, Corn Bread, Snickerdoodles

Feb. 13 - BBQ Chicken, Church Po-

tatoes, Cauliflower, Peaches, Sourdough Bread, Red Velvet Cake

Feb. 18 - Roast Beef, Mashed Potato w/Gravy, Bananas, Nutella Cheesecake

Feb. 20 - Cod w/Confetti Rice, Cauliflower, Dilly Bread, Applesauce, Berry Crisp

Feb. 25 - Swiss Steak, Baked Potato, Apples, Potato Bread, Snickerdoodles

Feb. 27 - Chicken Enchiladas, Green Rice, Green Salad, Fruit Cocktail, Mexican Wedding Cake

EVENT CALENDARS

SODA SPRINGS CARIBOU COUNTY

January 30 – Friday

IDAN-HA Movie

Caribou County Senior Dinner

Wrestling@ Minico

January 31 – Saturday

IDAN-HA Movie

BBB vs Declo

GBB @ Aberdeen Wrestling @ Minico

February 1– Sunday

Presbyterian Services

Caribou Bible Church Services

Catholic Mass (8:30am)

Open Arms Church Services

LDS Services

Hope Lutheran Church

February 3 – Tuesday

MS BBB @ Star Valley

GBB Districts

February 4 – Wednesday City Council

BBB @ Wendall

MS BBB @ West Side Wrestling @ Malad Blood Drive

February 5 – Thursday

MS BBB @ Grace

GBB Districts

GRACE

January 30 – Friday

Wrestling @ Sugar Salem (Boys)

January 31 – Saturday

Wrestling @ Sugar Salem (Boys)

GBB & BBB vs Cokeville

February 1 – Sunday

LDS Services

Caribou Bible Church (2pm)

February 2 – Monday

GBB District

BIRTHDAYS

Valerie Bolton, Feb.1

Mark Tompson, Feb. 3

Roger Moore, Feb. 4

Amelia Mae Crump, Feb. 6

LaRae Rasmussen, Feb. 7

Betty Moore, Feb. 7

JoAnn Rhodes, Feb. 11

Ulla Soderman, Feb. 12

Greg Elam, Feb. 13

Jan Barnes, Feb. 14

Dawn Briggs, Feb. 14

Margaret Barker, Feb. 15

February 4 – Wednesday

GBB District

JH BBB vs American Falls PAC Meeting

February 5 – Thursday

Wrestling vs Kemmerer

JH BBB vs Soda Springs

February 1 – Sunday

LDS Services

Caribou Bible Church (2pm)

February 2 – Monday GBB District

February 4 – Wednesday

GBB District

JH BBB vs American Falls PAC Meeting

February 5 – Thursday

Wrestling vs Kemmerer

JH BBB vs Soda Springs

BANCROFT

January 30 – Friday

Wrestling Sugar Salem – Sugar City

MS BBB/BBB/GBB vs American Heritage

January 31 – Saturday

Wrestling Sugar Salem – Sugar City

February 1 – Sunday LDS Services

February 2 – Monday

MS BBB @ Sho-Ban School Board Meeting

February 3 – Tuesday

GBB Play In Game

February 4 – Wednesday

MSBBB vs Grace Lutheran BBB vs Grace Lutheran

February 5 – Thursday GBB Districts

LUNCH MENUS

SODA SPRINGS LUNCH MENU

Lunches served with Fruit, Veggies & Milk

Monday, February 2

Meatball Sub, Chips, Fruit, Veggies

Tuesday, February 3

Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Tomato Soup, Fruit, Veggies

Wednesday, February 4

Chicken Bowl, (Corn, Mashed Potatoes, Popcorn Chicken, Cheese or Gravy), Fruit, Veggies

Thursday, February 5

Pizza Stick, Fruit, Veggies

NORTH GEM LUNCH MENU

Milk and Choice of Bar Each Day

Monday, February 2

Cereal Fun Lunch Elem., Tator

Tot Breakfast Wrap HS/MS, Deli Bar, Roasted Baby Carrots, Applesauce

Tuesday, February 3

BBQ Port Sliders Deli Bar, California Blend Veggies, Peaches Parfaits

Blair Smith, Feb. 19

Clay Gentry, Feb. 22

Richard Hanse, Feb. 22

Barbara Hamilton, Feb. 23

Patsy Tarbet, Feb. 26

Mike Cannon, Feb. 28

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

Wednesday, February 4

Taco Soup, Cornbread, Deli Bar, Corn, Fresh Orange Slices

Thursday, February 5

Walking Tacos, Deli Bar, Refried Beans, Ambrosia Salad

GRACE LUNCH MENU

Lunches served with Milk

Monday, February 2

Deli Sandwich, Chips, Food Choices - Fresh Veggie, Pears

Tuesday, February 3

Alfredo, Food Choices - Roasted Broccoli, Green Salad, Peaches

Wednesday, February 4

Chicken Noodle Soup, Cheesy Bread Stick, Food ChoicesGreen Beans, Mandarin Oranges

Thursday, February 5

Super Nacho, Food ChoicesCorn, Refried Beans Applesauce

ON THIS DAY

1845 American writer Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “The Raven” first published in The Evening Mirror newspaper (New York City)

1886 Karl Benz patents the “Benz Patent-Motorwagon” in Karlsruhe, Germany, the world’s first automobile with an internal combustion engine

1892 The Coca-Cola Company is incorporated in Atlanta, Georgia

1896 American Emile Grubbe is the first doctor to use radiation treatment for breast cancer

1920 Walt Disney starts work as an artist with KIC Slide Co for $40 a week

1959 Walt Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty” released

1979 US President Jimmy Carter commutes Patty Hearst’s 7 year jail sentence to time served (22 months)

1988 United Airlines Boeing 747SP, circles world in 36h54m15s

1990 Exxon Valdez captain Joseph Hazelwood goes on trial due to oil spill

2000 Karl Malone of the Utah Jazz becomes the third player in NBA history to score 30,000 career points; finished with 35 in a 96-94 loss to Minnesota; behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,387) and Wilt Chamberlain (31,419)

2018 Marvel film “Black Panther” directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Chadwick Boseman premieres in Los Angeles

2025 US Army helicopter practicing night vision flying, crashes mid-air into commercial jet, killing all 67 passengers, including dozens of figure skaters, and crew members, over the Potomac River while approaching Ronald Reagan National Airport near Washington D.C.

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.

2021

Ninety-four legislators were named Ag All-Stars by Food Producers of Idaho based upon their voting records on selected pieces of legislation in the 202 Idaho Legislative session. Food Producers of Idaho, representing over 45 different agriculture commodity and farm organizations in Idaho, annually honors legislators for their voting record on issues supported or opposed by the organization. According to Executive Director Rick Waitley, the first year a legislator is honored, the award is an Ag License plate that reads, “AL STR.”: Each year after the initial award, a smaller plate with that year engraved on it is presented to each honoree. Ag All Star legislators are important to Idaho’s agriculture and natural resource industries. The award has been presented for the last 21 legislative sessions. Every bill that is identified as a tracked issue by the Food Producers organization may be a bill that will be used on the organization’s scorecard at end of the session. The following were recognized as 2020 Food Producers of Idaho Ag All Stars: Sen Mark Harris, District 32, Soda Springs; Rep. Marc Gibbs, District 32, Grace.

Soda Springs Cardinal cross-country and track runner Kelson Smith signed a letter of intent Tuesday afternoon to continue his running career at the College of Southern Idaho. Smith was a four-year letterman in cross country for the Soda Springs team. Henwas a part of the state championship run for the Cardinals as a freshman and has followed that up with three team state runners-up in his sophomore, junior, and senior years. Individually, Smith has been named an all district and all state 2A runner for the last three years, culminating in a 7th place overall finish in the 2020 IHSAA 2A state championships. Smith boasts a 5K personal record time of 16:30. “CSI was a great fit for me. When I went on my visit I felt the environment will be a great place to grow and excel,” Smith said.

2001

Williams began an investigation last week of an accident that occurred Tuesday evening, Jan. 16 at a compressor station on the Williams Northwest Pipeline system. The accident, involving three Williams employees, was reported at 6:30 p.m. at the Pegram Compressor Station in Bear Lake County. One employee was killed in the accident, and two others were injured. All three were transported to Bear Lake Memorial Hospital in Montpelier last Tuesday night. The three operations technicians were working on a construction project to tie-in additional compression at the Pegram facility when they were apparently over by fumes and rendered unconscious. There was no damage to pipeline facilities. Employee Darrin Wells died as a result of his injuries. Don Merz was in stable condition last Wednesday at Bear Lake Memorial. Dino Davis was treated and released Wednesday afternoon. Darrin Well, 27, an operation technician III from Soda Springs, had been employed by Williams since 1994. Don Merz, 48, a senior operations technician from Ovid, has been an employee since 1981. Dino Davis, an operations technicians II from Pocatello, has been employed with the company since 1999.

With a focus towards family and community involvement, the Soda Springs City Council gave support in principle to a resolution declaring a family night a week in the community. Berlin Kowallis, representing the Caribou County Healthier Youth, asked the mayor and council to declare a family night once a week, possibly on Monday nights because it tends to be free of school activities. The idea would be to promote activities as a family and for families on

that night throughout the community. Judge Ronald Hart, who was at Wednesday’s meeting, suggested the July 4th theme be based around the family and have that theme for the parade floats. “We are excited about this program,” the judge, who also oversees juvenile court proceedings, said about the CCHY group that has organized to help community youth. He said there were teams focused on the family, community, and schools.

“I think it’s a great idea,” Mayor Kirk Hansen said about the night a week focus on the family. “Your initiative is admirable,” he told Miss Kowallis.

Caribou Memorial Hospital’s Auxiliary, also called the “Pink Ladies,” has recently purchased an original oil painting by Grace artist Marie Prescott Jenkins. It will be on permanent display on the walls of the hospital, administrator John Hoopes said. The painting is of a local scene, Burton Canyon, which is located northeast of Grace in Caribou County. Jenkins said her paintings are a continuation of her life experiences. An artist must relate to the subject in some way in order for it to say something, and one hopes that the viewer will enjoy the experience as much as the artist did while painting it. “Burton Canyon” is a vivid fall scene pulling the viewer into the autumn phenomena of the valley. The autumn colors usually appear with hunting season. Jenkins says she gets “a little nervous painting out there during the hunting season with the hunters buzzing around, but life without a few risks could be rather boring. “I could put up a fluorescent umbrella, but that would distort and ruin the colors in my painting,” she chuckled.

The Soda Springs Homemakers Club met Tuesday in the Caribou County Extension Office in the former Horsley Building on First South Street. Club Secretary Bonnie Summers conducted in the absence of the president, Pat Farnes. Guest Shelly Thorpe, Extension Agent for Family Consumer Sciences for Caribou and Oneida Counties, presented a program on Healthy Caribou County Youth.

Touted as the best A-3 team in the state, the Valley Vikings felt little threat as they took the floor on Friday night in Grace. The unbeaten Vikings had disposed of the Grizzlies in mid-December and felt confident they would brush by Grace once again. But the Vikings hadn’t counted on a stifling man to man defense by the Grizzlies, and a potent inside game that kept Grace ahead throughout the night, and gave them a 71-57 victory. Valley closed the gap within 6 points in the third quarter (42-36) but the Grizzlies came storming back to increase the lead to 49-36. Five Grace players scored in double figures, with Rawlee Yamauchi scoring 13, Scott Thomas and Jordan Stoddard each putting in 12 points, and Ryan Smith and AJ Bitton contributing 10 each. Senior Kyle Hardy is still recovering from an ankle sprain and did not play. Coach Greg Bergholm praised the effort of his team.

“We played hard and went strong to the basket all night,” Bergholm said.

“It was a good win for us.”

Thirkill Thunderbirds School Reports: Kindergarten—This week we loved show and tell because we al brought things we received from Christmas. I was great. We are also reviewing numbers and words we have been working on this nine weeks. We are glad to be back from Christmas vacation.

1st grade—Christmas was so much fun. We got lots of fun toys. We played with our cousins and we are glad school started again so we can see out friends and teachers. We got to show our best present for show and tell. We hope it snows, too, so we can play with our sleds.

2nd grade—Out class is the best. We’ve been learning about bones. We read about the skeleton. We like to play football at recess. We like Soda Springs and school.

3rd grade—We have been learning division and times tables too. We have been doing Accelerated Math. Lots of kids are in that. We help our

Below zero temperatures last year strained Soda Springs High School facilities. Temperatures have improved for this year but many of the same issues will persist.

teachers do work, like pass out papers and tests.

Reporters: Wendell Oviatt, Karly Gilgen, Dakota Petersen, Janae Godfrey, Erik Hayes, Alesha Kelley, Shawnee Perry.

1991

Soda Springs Mayor Kirk Hansen, speaking before the local Chamber of Commerce, gave the group a state of the city address. Before he did, though, he pointed to the “tremendous interest in what’s happening there,” regarding the air attacks made the night before by the United States against Iraq. “Servicemen need all of our support. The decision was made and now we need to follow up with our support. In a democracy, people have a right to their own opinions,” he said. “I don’t care much about the oil, but the man there is a tyrant and a murderer,” he said, sharing his opinion of the war underway in the Gulf. Regarding the city, the mayor said the Bear River Task Force recently completed their recommendations about development and the state’s role on the Bear River. They recommended possible sites of Rocky Point southeast of Montpelier, and the Soda Dam site just south of Soda Springs, for potential dam developments. “Our choice is the Caribou Dam site. Rocky Point, near Montpelier, would be very expensive,” he said, because it would require moving a state highway and a railroad that would be flooded. He also noted the following: Most residents are now drinking Ledge Creek water from the new million-gallon water tank the city constructed to utilize more of their water right at that location. A city power system that has been very good to the city and allows them to do things other areas cannot. He did say that lines in the city are becoming outdates and will need to be updated from 2,400 volts to 7,200 volt lines for more efficiency and safety. That project will be expensive and spread out over a number of years in a systemic changeover. The mayor will be appearing before the EPA’s Science Advisory Board in Washington, D.C., regarding the study results and EPA’s conclusions and the city’s concerns with them. “The city is very strong financially and we are strong in our methodology. Your funds are well-protected. We are in a mode of good things happening. Major industries are doing well,” he said, adding that other companies are looking at locating in Soda Springs, but it was premature to give details yet.

Allyne Crossley reported that “Joining the growing list of Scouting leaders of Caribou District’s Award of Merit recipients are Cub Scout leader Lynne Weaver, Bancroft, and Wayne Alder, Boy Scout leader, of Grace. Mrs. Weaver was presented the award by her husband, Ron Weaver. Lynne has been a den leader, has helped in several ways on the pack committee including advancement chairman, Scout-O-Rama ticket sales chairman, and popcorn sales chairman. She has also helped on the district with several activities including leader training, day camp, pinewood derby, and

Physical Fitness competitions. Lynne is the mother of six children, four of which have all completed cub scouts and achieved all of their advancements, and one who is almost ready to receive his Eagle.

Alder was presented the Award of Merit by his wife Janet, also a scouting leader. He is the father of six children. Four of their sons have received the Arrow of Light and Eagle awards. He has been a Blazer leader, scoutmaster, and has served the last two years as District Commissioner. One of his joys as a scoutmaster was being able to be the scoutmaster for his own son and being able to present him with his Eagle badge.”

For about an hour and a half on Friday, Jan 25, a walking tour will be conducted by the University of Utah military Science Department, under the direction of Lieutenant Colonel James T. Austin, Commanding Officer, and Captain Ed Guisbert. The location of the outdoor classroom will be 4 ½ miles northwest of Preston. Last year the government designated this confrontation site the “Bear River Massacre National Historic Landmark.” The Military Science Departments of the various western universities will be studying this site as part of their courses entitled Western Indian battles and confrontations of the 1800s. The public is invited to walk with the cadets around the 1863 route taken by the California Volunteers in the campaign against the Northwestern Shoshone who were at their winter encampment. The study of the controversy surrounding the site has been hosted by the University of Utah Military Science Department since 1987, with other various intermountain universities participating.

IDAN-HA THEATRE

-INDOOR-

Thursday, January 29

Friday, January 30

Saturday, January 31

Avatar Fire and Ash (PG-13)

The third installment in James Cameron’s sci-fi epic series, follows the adventures of Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) on Pandora. Jake and Neytiri’s family grapples with grief, encountering a new aggressive Na’vi tribe, the Ash People, who are led by the fiery Varang, as the conflict on Pandora escalates and a new moral focus emerges.

Thursday, Friday & Saturday 6:00 p.m.

Saturday Matinee 2:00 p.m. (All seats $5) 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday, February 4 6:00 p.m.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Caribou County Planning and Zoning Commission and the Caribou County Commissioners will hold public hearings to consider any and all comments on the following: Ellingson Family Trust and Barker Ag have submitted a request to vacate roads within the Alexander Townsite. This request pertains specifically to the roads within their property, including Blocks 1-5, all of Blocks 6, 7, 8, and combined Blocks 12 and 13. It is important to note that the Oregon Trail Road will not be subject to vacation and will remain owned and maintained by the county. The lined portion of the survey below is the requested area to be vacated.

The public hearings will take place at the Caribou County Courthouse, Commissioners Room, 159 S Main St, Soda Springs, Idaho, on the following dates and times: Planning & Zoning meeting on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM County Commissioners meeting on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 10:15 AM All persons will be given an opportunity to be heard. Written comments or objections concerning the Zoning Application may be submitted to the Caribou County Planning and Zoning Administrator, Attn: Helen Barker, 159 S Main St., Soda Springs, ID 83276, or via email at hbarker@caribouid.gov and must be received no later than 48 hours prior to the public hearing. Any persons needing special accommodations to participate in the above-noticed meetings should call 208-547-1780. Any questions regarding the application in advance of the meeting should be directed to Helen Barker at the above contact information.

Helen Barker Planning & Zoning Administrator Caribou County, Idaho

#1196-01-15-22-29-26-T3

NEWS OF RECORD

CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF

Trevor L Allen, Meridian, operate when unsafe or improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $56.50

John W Beck, Appleton, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Brandon Alexander Cummins, Moyie, fail to register annually, $10.50, costs $56.50

Caden Hawke Ducheneaux, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Mark J Hall, Afton, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00

Stacy Austin Jackson, Rickreall, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Wyatt Gregory Merzlock, Chubbuck, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Michael Edward Sith, Chubbuck, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Jacob I Stoker, Grace, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

SODA SPRINGS POLICE

Ronan Katakkar Armstrong, Tuc-

son, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

David Grant Bagley, Soda Springs, windshield to be unobstructed and equipped with wipers violation, $10.50, costs $56.50

Beatriz Vivian Birdsell, Iola, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Nicole Cragun, Mapleton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Jessica Taylor Henderson, Soda Springs, fail to register annually, $10.50, costs $56.50

Eddy C Ivie, Etna, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Jay Dixon Ricks, Benson, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Andres Ramos, Phoenix, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Anupama Sathya Moorthy, Leander, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Amanda Dildirk Soaladaov-Tobias, Soda Springs, fail to provide proof of insurance, $75.00, cots $56.50

Gabriel J Tobias, Soda Springs,

50 Books in 2026

BY BRANDON HALL

The Soda Springs Library is hosting a 2026 reading challenge. The challenge is to read 50 books this year (or 25 for younger readers), and have them signed off by library staff members. There are prizes along the way for reading, and a grand prize of a library hoodie with the completion of 50 books. There is a list of category prompts and signup information available at the library. As often as possible, I will try to post my results from the week. If you would like to submit a book review for your part of the challenge, you can email it to brandon.h@idahoenterprise.com.

“Frozen Hell” by John W. Campbell

For my second week, I ended up reading “Frozen Hell,” a new edition of the classic John W Campbell, Jr. book “Who Goes There?” edited by Alec Nevala-Lee. The editor came across the manuscript tucked away in a collection of papers from the Campbell’s estate while working on a book about golden age (mid century) science fiction authors. Campbell is most famous for editing the pivotal monthly magazine Astounding,

which was later retitled Astounding Science Fiction. The magazine was the launching point for dozens of the most important writers in the genre as it took on its modern characteristics— Asimov, Leiber, Silverberg, et al.

Although Campbell spent the majority of his career as an editor, he began as a writer, and penned one of the most important and influential stories in the science fiction with “Who Goes There?” in 1938. If you don’t know it by that title, chances are you know it by its film adaptations, 1951’s “The Thing from Another World” or, more likely, 1982’s “The Thing,” starring Kurt Russell, Wilford Brimley, and a pack of good-boy huskies who have a terrible day.

The story introduced the concept of protoplasmic, shape-changing aliens into popular discourse, and probably paved the way for the related “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” themes. For it’s part, it seems to be somewhat influenced by H.P. Lovecraft’s “At the Mountains of Madness” from 1931, but is a much more action-oriented tale.

The story takes place at a m Antarctic research station, where a group of scientists are busy conducting a range

LEGAL NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that IDAWY Solid Waste District (District) has submitted to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) a Final Design Application and Groundwater Monitoring Plan for the IDAWY Regional Landfill Facility (Facility) located at 348 Diamond Gulch, Georgetown, ID 83239 (42° 34' 59.6" N, 111° 28' 43.8'' W). The purpose of this application and plan is to provide final design information and a groundwater monitoring plan for the construction of a Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Facility. This public notice is made pursuant to IDAPA 58.01.06.013, and as determined in Section 31819 of Idaho Code. This application may be reviewed at the District office located at 241 S Main, Suite #3 Lower Left, Soda Springs, ID 83276, (208) 417-1625. Office hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, except holidays. An electronic copy can also be downloaded at: https://swti.org/regional. The public is invited to comment on the design application and the groundwater monitoring plan. The 30-day comment period commences with the first publication of this announcement starting the week of January 19, 2026. Written comments will be accepted during the public comment period and should be directed to DEQ at: The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, Pocatello Regional Office, Attn: Dustyn Walker, 444 Hospital Way #300 Pocatello, ID 83201.

#1197-01-22-29-02-05-12-1926-T5

vehicle head lamp requirements and limitation on motor vehicle, $10.50, costs $56.50

Jayden Kile White, Hyde Park, fail to register annually, $10.50, costs

$56.50

IDAHO STATE POLICE

Joanna Jonak, Soda Springs, fail to register annually, $10.50, costs

$56.50

Scott Lee Lawhon, Blackfoot, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Joseph Peter Stevens, Mission Viejo, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Shayli Annalia Williams, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

MAGISTRATE COURT

Bryson Lee Calixto, Soda Springs, driving under the influence, $500.00, costs $259.30, 90 days drivers license suspended, 18 months probation; carry concealed weapon while under the influence, $200.00, costs

of experiments on the hostile, frozen environment. Functionally, this allows for an isolated location, as well as collection of different experts to play off one another’s preconceptions and skills.

During the course of their research, a magnetic anomaly is detected below the ice sheet, which the team investigates. Eventually, they uncover a large crashed craft and a entity of some sort, frozen solid while apparently attempting to tunnel up from the space ship. After inadvertently destroying the ship and extracting the alien, they return to the base to perform a more complete autopsy. This is the point at which the more familiar version of the story starts, and the rest proceeds along the lines that most people are familiar with, including the blood serum test, husky kennel chaos, and paranoid and unresolved final act.

This new version adds an extra 30% or so the total length, which does change the pacing and impact a bit.

In the originally published version, the characters are largely two-dimensional character types, which works for a quick high-concept story. In the expanded edition, the characters

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE is hereby given that on the 9th day of February, 2026, at the hour of 10:45 a.m. at the Caribou County Courthouse Room #206, 159 S. Main in Soda Springs, ID, a public hearing will be held for comment on the adoption of Ordinance 2026-01. Ordinance 2026-01:

AN ORDINACE FOR THE COUNTY OF CARIBOU, STATE OF IDAHO PROVIDING FOR THE ESTABLISHEMENT OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION; PROVIDING PURPOSE, DEFINITIONS, POWERS, DUTIES AND RESPONSILBILITIES FOR THE SAID COMMISSION; PROVIDING THAT THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BE IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT FROM AND AFTER ITS PASSAGE, APPROVAL, AND PUBLICATION ACCORDING TO LAW.

A complete copy of the proposed ordinance is available at the Clerk’s Office Room 202.

Written comment will be received by the Board of County Commissioners until 5:00 p.m. February 6, 2026. #1198

$157.50, 18 months probation –Agency: CCSO

Chaely Dawn Gacayan, Stevensville, possession of marijuana, $300.00, costs $197.50 – Agency: SSPD

Tristen Earl Hull, Soda Springs, driving under the influence, $500.00, cost $212.10 – Agency: SSPD

Monica Mund, Grace, disturbing the peace, $250.00, costs $157.50 –Agency: CCSO

Danette R Noppe, Soda Springs, disturbing the peace, $200.00, costs $207.50 6 months probation – Agency: SSPD

Hector Rios Jaramillo, Garden City, possession of marijuana, $400.00, costs $197.50 – Agency: SSPD

Jerry Loran Shurtleff, Soda Springs, unlawful use of game or game parts for bait, $25.00, costs $215.00 – Agency: IDF&G

become much more human, and as a result the tension about who may or may not be the alien is much more emotional and effective.

The difference between the two versions is interesting in what it demonstrates about the importance of “where the story starts.” The originally published version starts after the main antagonist is already on site. It essentially begins “in medias res,” which literally means “in the middle of things.” This allows the plot to kick in immediately, and the action to launch straight off the jump. The longer version is much slower, and in many ways starts as a speculative science story until it abruptly shifts into the horror story it has come to be known as. In my opinion, the effect of that shift is worth the wait. Establishing a believable real world makes its potential destruction much more weighty.

If you are a fan of the original story, either of the movies, or classic sci fi in general, this is a great read. I read it for my “Book that involves an element of weather” selection. For the upcoming week, I’m working on a selection for the “classic you’ve never read but always meant to” prompt. At least I mean to.

BY CONNOR LIESS, IDFG

Break out the neoprene: Winter stream fishing is a perfect opportunity to stay outdoors and catch fish

Ask just about anyone if standing in two feet of 33-degree water while snow somehow finds its way down the back of their base layer sounds like their idea of a good time, and you’ll probably get a resounding no. This time of year, it’s tempting for anglers to stash the rods and hang up the waders ‘til next spring. And that turnkey fireplace beside the 55-inch flat screen doesn’t make the decision any easier.

But for those willing to don their thickest neoprene waders, set up shop on an icy riverbank for a few hours, and fuss with frozen guides, there are still several opportunities to sharpen one’s angling skills, take in Idaho’s beautiful winterscape, and hook a few fish.

The benefits and strategy of winter stream fishing

There are several benefits to fishing rivers and streams during the coldest part of the year. For starters, you may have the whole stretch of river bank to yourself. For a handful of folks, fishing plays second fiddle to other winter hobbies like fly tying, skiing, or making a pot of chili in the slow cooker. It shouldn’t be too difficult to find a nice stretch of river where you won’t have to worry about summer crowds.

Seek out slow, deep water where trout and whitefish will most likely

be holding, expending as little energy as possible. Look for slow pockets or pools where water is barely flowing.

Slow and hungry

Just because fish are moving slower in the winter doesn’t mean they’re not still looking for an easy meal. Insect hatches are sparse in winter, but that doesn’t mean they still aren’t around as a food source for slow-moving fish. Fish can be frustratingly picky this time of year, so presentation and food size is vital.

As a general rule of thumb, use smaller bait and flies than you would in spring and summer.

The same goes for tippet. River flows in winter slow down dramatically and tend to be lower and clearer. That means it’s even easier for fish to see right through a poorly-executed presentation. It might be wise to downsize your tippet from what you usually run in the spring and summer, such as a 4X to a 5X.

Technique, technique, technique

Once you got your rig set up, it’s good to try different techniques that you might not have tried before in the warmer months.

Dead drifting is critical in winter because trout won’t chase a fly in cold water. To dead drift, simply let the slow-moving current carry the fly either on the surface (dry fly) or just beneath the surface in the upper column of water (bait, nymphs, midges). If you see dimples on the water, it may be fish feeding on drifting insects, which will likely be tiny midges or mayflies.

Dear Texas Ranchers

BY ALLISON ELIASON

As I listened to the news this morning, with the sun melting away the little frost off my front steps, I heard you are in the midst of a winter storm that only hits your ranges once in a few years. I got to thinking that this could be our fault if our weather gate got left open and all our usual winter weather headed south for the season.

Up north here we are dealing with an unusual weather pattern ourselves, mild and sunny- something we aren’t sure how to handle in the heart of winter. I’m not sure if we signed up for some sort of life swap without actually singing our names to it but I thought I would write a note to lend a little advice for the cold weather you are facing.

When the temperatures really start to drop and it is coupled with a little wind, snow or both, we like to pull out what we call a coat. Something heavy duty, wind proof, waterproof and that will keep in all the toasty body heat. I know down south you probably don’t have the selection we do hanging up in your closets, and with the current mindset of civilization these days, the stores were robbed of everything on the hanger, so just do the best you can.

Under that nice warm coat, you need to have a few layers. You can choose between a button up shirt, nice hoodie, heated vest or even all three. Layers are going to help you navigate

the spectrum between “I’m absolutely freezing right now” and “These layers are working and I’m sweating hot.” I know you are used to the one extreme of never feeling the chill, so having to decide how many layers is necessary might take some trial and error. I’m gonna guess that this storm will be over before you finally get that skill dialed in.

Gloves are going to be an absolute must. They aren’t going to be as much about keeping your hands clean and dry and more about keeping the blood flowing through them so they don’t fall off. If you don’t already have the top of the line, leather insulated, fluffy lined gloves we northerners use, you might just have to pile on pairs of cotton gloves under your usual ranch gloves.

There is a lot to be said about a Texas cowboys fashion, but I’m here to tell you that when the thermometer drops, fashion goes out the window for function. Instead of a cowboy hat, yes we applaud you for at least turning in the straw hat for a felt one, you had better grab something thick and wooly to keep your ears covered and hang on to all that heat your hot head is letting off (not to say your hot headed, unless this storm is bringing out the best in you).

Those fancy wild rags are going to be less of a statement about your own personalized style and more a statement about just how dang cold it is outside. Keep that knot snug and

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

Occasionally stream fish will rise for dry flies, such as small midges or olive mayflies, during the winter. But it isn’t too common. Instead, save yourself a few extra grams of weight and keep that box of dry flies at home. A small midge emerger or a tiny olive mayfly emerger will be the only surface flies you need.

If fishing for trout or steelhead, try swinging a fly by keeping the fly in the upper part of the water column. Steelhead and trout will often feed upwards, so a well-placed fly swinging across the upper portion of the water just may catch their eye.

If the fish aren’t going for small flies like midges and stoneflies, it may not hurt to lob a streamer out there to test the waters, so to speak. Streamers can look like a big, easy meal when presented slowly, but don’t expect trout to vigorously chase them like they do in summer.

Hit the snooze

The only thing sweeter than netting a jumbo fish in the middle of winter is netting a jumbo fish in the middle of winter after 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. Unplug the alarm clock. Disable your phone’s sleep reminder. Brew that extra pot of bold roast, and slam that extra waffle. Winter fishing means one thing to many anglers: sleeping in. This time of year, fish will be right there with you, figuratively speaking.

With most winter fisheries, fish won’t be getting after it until mid- to late-morning. Unlike peak summer conditions, fish will be most active during mid-afternoon on sunny days,

tight to keep the wind from sneaking in from any direction.

You’re going to need to trade in your cowboy boots for a pair of arctic weather mucks. Tromping through the snow and ice isn’t made for just your everyday boots. They are going to require a little refinement in both the heating and traction departments.

Now that you have a better idea of how to dress for real winter weather, why don’t I offer a little practical advice to new challenges your work is going to offer. Cows are going to eat more in the cold, it’s how they stay warm. So plan on spending extra time and feed to keep the herd happy. I think we all can relate that hangry + cold is a bad combination, even for a cow.

Those cold snowy days are hard to calve in, I know. It’s going to take a watchful eye to keep those babies warm and moving. It’s too bad you aren’t set up to watch them come in with the convenience of the cameras we have set up so we can stay in our nice warm cozies. Maybe in 10 years when the next big storm rolls through you can get it set up for the few cold days that will come with it. Until then, just keep heading outside. I promise it will end. Sometime. Just not soon enough.

Not having insulated troughs is probably a real bummer for you now. I’m sure you didn’t ever really think you would need it but here you are toasting pipes and breaking ice for the

and even longer into the afternoon on cloudy days.

It’s easy to see how excited one might be about submerging their southern hemisphere in icy water all for the hopes of catching a fish, but rest easy (and long) knowing that those fish will still be waiting for you when you hit your local river or stream later in the morning.

Where to start

Now that you’re well-rested and know what to try on fish, here’s where to find them. See Fish and Game’s Fishing Planner to learn more about each location.

Snake River below American Falls: This section of the Snake has produced some excellent trophy trout fishing in recent years. The relatively mild climate and dam release keeps this fishing accessible and productive during winter.

Snake River (Tilden to Shelley): This section is slated to get nearly 40,000 rainbow trout stocked in November. Several thousand fish will be released near Tilden, Blackfoot, Firth and Shelley.

Portneuf River: Upper section is your best bet, and Fish and Game provides several access areas so you can get to the river.

South Fork of the Snake River: This has year-round trout fishing and there’s no limit on rainbow trout. There’s also lots of opportunity to catch whitefish during winter.

herd to get a drink. A silver lining of it all- I bet you aren’t cold anymore as you break open the last patch of ice. In fact, I bet as you were ax hacking away, you worked through your layers, appreciating each one along the way, until you were down to your sweaty undershirt. Just hurry and put it back on before your sweat freezes. A final note to your wife- The rancher in your life is likely going to do some bizarre things do manage this cold weather and you are just going to have to roll with it. Paths to and through the fields are going to be a priority before your driveway. You weren’t going anywhere in this storm anyway, right? There is probably going to be a calf in your bath tub and your nice towels will likely be used to dry off another before he starts to freeze. Nod your head, say yes dear, and just pray for both your sakes that the storm hurries through. All jokes aside, whether you are in Idaho or Texas, ranching in the cold and snow is no easy feat. We see the struggles you are going through genuinely wish it wasn’t so challenging. Spending nearly every hour trying to keep the herd healthy and alive is taxing, but that is what we were made for. We are the type of breed that doesn’t give up when times get tough. Through the wins and losses, we double down. Keep in the fight. We are praying for you.

Sincerely,

An Idaho rancher’s wife

Hope Green Advertising hope.g@idahoenterprise.com

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

Sports The World Could Use More Cowboys

BY JODY REEVES

There is no use avoiding the fact that this year’s boys and girls Cowboys teams have failed to wow anyone with their number of wins. In fact both teams have barely managed to stay out of dead last place in their conference. Many outsiders would look at the records and see the blowout losses and scoff or feel pity for the lowly Cowboys. Neither team is lacking in numbers with both the boys and girls teams able to field a full varsity and jv team. Each coaching staff seems to be knowledgeable and have experience, so what is the problem? Well at the risk of being too blunt it simply boils down to lack of depth when it comes to natural talent. Despite their numbers the Cowboys just don’t have the talent this year that many of their opponents do. Now if it sounds like I am being too harsh on the North Gem teams stay with me and continue to read on because despite the numerous big losses both on the road and at home you would never know it by watching the players or fans. I have attended several North Gem games this season both

for the girls and boys teams. There have been several moments where I have found myself wincing at the score and wondering how a team continues to show up night after night? In those moments I look around the old gym in Bancroft and I see fans still cheering with enthusiasm and players still working hard and enjoying themselves. I even see smiles and high fives. How can fans and players still enjoy themselves so much when they have seen so little success on the scoreboard? The only explanation has to be that is just how Cowboys operate. Just like the original Cowboys of the old west who saw plenty of hardships along the way and had to continue down the trail, the North Gem Cowboys have a job to do and they are going to finish it come rain or shine. And just like the old west cowboys the North Gem players can rest well when their long ride is over knowing that they put in an honest day’s work and gave everything they had.

About five years ago the University of Wyoming who shares the Cowboy mascot started a new ad campaign with the catch phrase “The World

Needs More Cowboys.” Last week the North Gem boys and girls teams suffered three more blowout losses to conference foes proving they have little chance of winning any district tournament games but you probably would not have guessed that by the play of the athletes and the cheers from their

fans. In a world where some will say winning is everything I say the world needs more Cowboys. By the way the Lady Cowboys will be having senior night Friday night. I highly recommend making the trip to Bancroft for what will assuredly be a good time.

Streak Ends For Grace But Rebounds At Raft River

BY JODY REEVES

The Lady Grizzlies basketball team suffered their first loss in over a month last week when they hit the road to play their district rivals the Butte County Lady Pirates. Just eight days prior to last week’s game the Lady Grizzlies had narrowly defeated the Lady Pirates in Grace so the Lady Grizzlies knew they were in for a battle in this game. In the first quarter of play the Lady Grizzlies put up a modest nine points, the majority of which came from two of the team’s leading scorers, Yost and Steadman. In spite of their best efforts the Lady Grizzlies found themselves trailing at the end of the first by six points. In the second quarter it was a different pair of girls that helped keep the Lady Grizzlies in the game. The senior duo of Jorgensen and Stoddard tallied eight of the team’s eleven second quarter points as Grace was able to cut the lead to three at the halftime break. After working hard to cut into the lead in the second the Lady Grizzlies saw the lead balloon back to eight points in the third quarter. In the final quarter with the number one seed in the upcoming

district tournament on the line Grace went back to work chipping away at the lead. Three point buckets by Stoddard, Mansfield and Jorgensen helped the Lady Grizzlies come roaring back. Sadly in the end it was not quite enough to get the Lady Grizzlies over the hump and they eventually fell by just four points. Though there was not a lot of foul shooting in this game the Lady Grizzlies shot a dismal two for eight from the line that could have made the difference in the game. With each team winning on their home floor in the regular season the tie breaker for the number one seed and first round bye in the district tournament came down to the margin of victory in each of those games. Grace won the first game by three and Butte County the second game by four giving the number one seed to the Lady Pirates by just a single point. With the third team in the district being the winless Lady Pumas from Alturas Prep barring a colossal upset it is likely that the district championship will once again come down to Grace and Butte County. Following the sting of the loss in Arco the Lady Grizzlies next traveled to Malta to face a solid Raft River team.

The Lady Trojans entered the contest with just four losses on the season all to highly ranked teams in their respective divisions. The Lady Grizzlies may have overlooked the Lady Trojans or perhaps still had a little hangover from the Butte County loss but at any rate Grace got off to a rough start in this game. The Lady Grizzlies only managed six first quarter points and matched that number in personal fouls. Of those six personal fouls Yost and Jorgensen each picked up two which limited their time on the court. After finishing the first quarter trailing by three the Lady Grizzlies were able to bounce back in the second quarter. Seniors Stoddard and Mansfield accounted for all twelve of the second quarter points as they went a combined six for eight from the foul line while adding three field goals. Entering the second half with a slim two point lead the scoring for each team began to pick up. After a less than stellar performance at the foul line in Arco the Lady Grizzlies would have to hit their foul shots to win this game. Grace would head to the line to shoot twenty-one second half foul shots to go along with their ten from the first half. Of those thirty-one

foul shots the Lady Grizzlies converted twenty of them. The much improved shooting from the line helped stave off the hot outside shooting of the Lady Trojans and gave the Lady Grizzlies a six point victory. The Lady Grizzlies will stay busy in their final week of the regular season. They will travel to West Side on Wednesday then host a very good Oakley team in their final home game of the season on Thursday. The Lady Grizzlies will then finish the week and the season by traveling with the boys team to play a double header in Cokeville Wyoming on Saturday.

Grizzlies 9 11 9 15 44

Pirates 15 8 14 11 48

K. Stoddard 8, K. Mansfield 7, A. Rasmussen 2, P. Steadman 9, C. Yost 11, T. Jorgensen 7

Grizzlies 6 12 16 16 50 Trojans 9 7 13 15 44

K. Stoddard 11, A. King 2, K. Mansfield 11, A. Rasmussen 2, P. Steadman 4, C. Yost 12, A. Cooper 3, T. Jorgensen 4, P. Hatch 1

Grizzlies Struggle To String Together Wins

BY JODY REEVES

There is an old saying that goes “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades.” This personifies the Grizzlies season this year. Sitting with a current record of 5-11 only one of those eleven losses would be considered a blowout with several others ending in just a one or two possession game. Of their five wins only once did those wins come in back to back games and even then they came with the holiday break between them. It goes without saying that it has been a bit of a frustrating season for the Grizzlies and things did not improve during last week’s games.

The Grizzlies started their week on the road at West Side on Wednesday. The Grizzlies got off to a great start in this game. The Grizzlies got nine first quarter points from three point shots made by Mecham, B. Smith and C. Smith. Those shots helped lift the Grizzlies to a six point first quarter lead. Even though they followed a fourteen

point first quarter performance with a respectable twelve point second quarter performance the Grizzlies could not hold down the hard charging Pirates who cut the Grace lead to a single point at the halftime break. In the second half of play the Grizzlies ran out of gas as they failed to keep pace with the Pirates. West Side wound up outscoring the Grizzlies by a dozen points in the final two periods as they coasted to an eleven point victory. After such a hot start to the game the loss was just another frustrating finish for the Grizzlies and their fans.

Following the tough loss in Dayton the Grizzlies hit the road once again to face a different Pirate team. In this game Grace took on their district rivals the Butte County Pirates. On paper it really looked as though the Grizzlies should be the favorites to win this match up but as everyone knows rivalry games are nothing if not competitive. To put it bluntly the Grizzlies really struggled in this game to break

the press and inside the key. The Grizzlies leading scorer Parker Yost who can usually account for double digit scoring in each half was limited to just three first half points with fellow big man Chase Smith finishing the game with just two total points. Meanwhile the Pirates who always seem to be very comfortable shooting on their home floor got off to a blistering start putting up twenty-three first quarter points. After getting down big in the first the Grizzlies made some headway in the second quarter holding the Pirates to just nine points and cutting the deficit to just seven points at the half. Following the break the Pirates once again created some separation and once again built the lead to double digits. This was an ongoing theme for this game. Everytime the Grizzlies would start to get back into the game the Pirates would make a run of their own, preventing the Grizzlies from ever gaining control. In the end the Grizzlies did manage to close the gap but still lost the game by

Cowboys Team Up With Salmon

The three North Gem Cowboy wrestlers headed north last week to take part in the North South Duals in Clearwater Valley. Lacking a full team the Cowboy wrestlers joined forces with Salmon in the duals. As a combined team they were only able to earn one team victory over the two day event. That team win

came on day two against Grangeville by the score of 36-29. Individually Welker and Hayes struggled to pick up wins but got a ton of time on the mat with ten matches over the two days of wrestling. The third Cowboy wrestler Haydn Frandsen finished his ten matches with a 7-3 record.

seven points. Despite the scoring troubles from the Grace bigs a couple of bright spots came from the shooting of sophomore Carter Mecham who hit a pair of three’s and was perfect from the foul line and senior Bodee Smith who poured in six three-point shots on his way to a game high twenty-four points. The Grizzlies have just four games remaining on their regular season schedule. This week they will host county rival Soda Springs on Tuesday before traveling to Cokeville Wyoming on Saturday.

Grizzlies 14 12 11 8 45

Pirates 8 17 19 12 56

K. Kimball

Draper 6, C. Mecham 14, B. Smith 24, C. Smith 2, P. Yost 11

Sports Senior Night

Cardinals Heating Up

BY JODY REEVES

After a pair of disappointing losses early in the month the Soda Springs Cardinals boys basketball team have ripped off five wins in a row. Those wins included a pair of conference games last week against two very solid teams from the district.

As will sometimes happen when there are so many events taking place in one week we will occasionally miss seeing a game with our own eyes. Such was the case when the Cardinals traveled to Malad last Wednesday to face the Dragons. And while we may not have been able to watch the game we can give you a little insight into how important it was for the Cardinals to pick up that win on the road. Prior to last week’s game Malad was 2-0 in the conference having picked up wins over Declo and Aberdeen. Soda Springs on the other hand was sitting at 1-1 a game behind the Dragons with

conference leaders Wendell and West Side still left to play. The Cardinals absolutely could not afford to lose to the Dragons if they were holding out any hope for a first or second seed in the district tournament. Over the past couple of years the Dragons have been a bit of a thorn in the side of the Cardinals. Even though the Cardinals have survived most of those games they have been more of a challenge than expected in some cases. Fortunately last week’s game in Malad fell in favor of the Cardinals as they were able to walk away with a nine point win. Following the win in Malad the Cardinals were on the road again this time at West Side. Two weeks ago the Cardinals and Pirates met in Soda Springs where West Side jumped out to an early big lead to defeat the Cardinals on their home floor. This time around the Cardinals were looking for revenge and they got the hot start. The Cardinals were able to hit from both outside

and drive to the hoop as they scored a staggering twenty-three first quarter points while holding the Pirates to just seven. The Cardinals followed the big first quarter with a solid second quarter which helped them keep the lead but the Pirates did take a big chunk out of that lead, nearly cutting it to single digits. Going into the third quarter the Cardinals held an eleven point lead. The scoring slowed significantly for the majority of the third quarter but in the closing minutes of the third the Cardinals hit a flurry of shots extending the lead back to thirteen. In the final quarter of the game the Pirates kept the pressure on as they cut the lead to single digits. With just over two minutes left in the game the Cardinal’s Cooper Thompson fouled out with Soda Springs clinging to just a seven point lead. For many teams losing a player like Thompson in a crucial part of the game might spell disaster but the Cardinals still had the

ball skills of Hansen and Ozburn and the hot hand of Horsley. In addition to those three Caleb Hansen and Landon Martinsen stepped up hitting some end of game foul shots and Kaden Harrison came up with a big offensive rebound to help the Cardinal secure the ten point victory. The Cardinals will try to extend their winning streak with three games this week. They faced Grace on Tuesday in a big county rivalry game then host the winless Tigers from Aberdeen on Thursday before rounding out the week at home with Declo on Saturday.

Cardinals 64

Dragons 55

Cardinals 23 15 14 15 67

Pirates 7 20 12 18 57

C. Thompson 15, G. Hansen 17, J. Horsley 22, P. Ozburn 3, M. Browning 4, L. Mellor 2, C. Hansen 2, L. Martinsen 2

Cardinals Celebrate Senior Wrestlers

BY JODY REEVES

The Cardinal wrestlers kept busy last week with the boys team taking part in two duals while the girls wrestled in one dual and a tournament. The week started out with both the boys and girls hosting Marsh Valley on senior night. Prior to the matches the four senior boys from Soda Springs were announced and honored on the mat. The four seniors that were honored were JT Cutler, Ryker Hemmert, Simon Krupp, and Elijah Dilworth. Coach Garbett spoke briefly about how three of the seniors had been four year members of the team and how team leader Elijah Dilworth will likely hit one hundred and fifty career wins before the end of the season. The night began with the seniors getting some warmup exhibition matches. All four seniors won those exhibition bouts with Cutler winning by fall and the other three all winning by technical fall. After the exhibition matches the dual got underway. Like many duals, several of the matches would end in forfeits due to lack of wrestlers in matching weights. In actual contested matches Troy Krupp,

Kellen Garbett and Kaiden Kimball were the only Cardinals to earn victories as Soda Springs lost the dual 41-30. Meanwhile the Lady Cardinals found themselves in the same boat with several forfeits in their dual. The Lady Eagles easily flew by the Lady Cardinals 30-6.

The next dual that the Cardinal men’s team took part in was against Snake River. Once again the depth of their opponent was detrimental to the team scoring for the Cardinals. The Panthers were able to fill nearly every weight class earning several forfeit victories along the way. In contested matches Troy Krupp and Carson Cook were able to collect wins with Dilworth adding the only forfeit points for the Cardinals. The Panthers easily defeated the Cardinals by the score of 69-16.

While the boys were finishing the week dueling the girls were hitting the Gooding Grappler Tournament. The Lady Cardinals saw little success at the tournament but continued to battle and gain experience. The bright spot for the Lady Cardinals was Brooklyn Dodge who picked up three straight wins in dominant fashion finishing in first place.

Lady Cardinals Soar On Senior Night

BY JODY REEVES

The Soda Springs Lady Cardinals basketball team had just one game last week and boy was it a fun one. For four of the Lady Cardinals it was senior night and their last chance to play on their home floor before districts begin. The four seniors that were highlighted prior to and in this game are Courtnee Gronning, Rosie Harris, Maddie Kempe, and Ellie Wood. All four girls took center stage as they all got the start and contributed to the scoreboard.

Their opponent in this game was the Declo Lady Hornets. Way back in early December the two teams met in Declo where the Lady Cardinals escaped with a seven point victory. In last week’s game with emotions running high and the team wanting to perform at its best on senior night this game was almost over before it began. A very enthusiastic Lady Car-

dinals team relentlessly attacked the Lady Hornets on both ends of the court. Offensively the Lady Cardinals rained down buckets on the Lady Hornets scoring an impressive seventeen first quarter points followed by eighteen second quarter points. Meanwhile the Soda Springs defense swarmed the ball creating several turnovers and limiting the Lady Hornets attempts. At the halftime break the Lady Cardinals had a staggering twenty-nine point lead. In the third quarter the Lady Hornets were finally able to get some traction as they tallied fourteen points but they were still bested by Soda Springs who added fifteen. The one point increase to the lead meant that the fourth quarter would start in the mercy rule with a running clock. With the clock running and time winding down fast the Soda Springs coaching staff took the opportunity to sub each senior out of the game one at a time giving each

girl the spotlight and a standing ovation from the crowd. The Lady Cardinals ran away with this game winning by twenty-nine points. Of course with the completion of the game there were some tears that were quickly followed by smiles and laughter as players and fans congratulated the seniors on outstanding careers.

The Lady Cardinals have just two games remaining on their regular season schedule. Soda Springs will travel to Malad on Wednesday then go to Aberdeen on Saturday. Right now the Lady Cardinals are sitting in second place in the district just barely ahead of Aberdeen making Saturday’s game a crucial one for district tournament seeding.

Cardinals 17 18 15 5 55

Hornets 3 3 14 6 26

J. Parker 5, C. Gronning 21, R. Harris 3, M. Kempe 2, A. Davis 11, E. Wood 9, D. Frandsen 4