Enterprise The Idaho
Oneida County's News Since 1879 Malad City, Idaho
October 16, 2025 |Vol. 145 No. 42
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NEWS IN BRIEF
Arbon Valley woman turns painful skin allergies into all-natural soap business
Another fantastic Homecoming parade rolled through Malad last week, putting another Homecoming in the books.
Homecoming in Malad
Homecoming roared into town last week for the Dragons, and despite a tough football game loss to the Aberdeen Tigers, it was a great time for students, faculty, parents, families, and all those returning to the valley and all those who were already here. Over the course of the week, MHS hosted a series of student-led games and contests, played against the backdrop of bragging rights between the classes. The week’s events included the traditional bonfire, as well as the hometown Homecoming parade that filled the streets with noise and a certain, not insignificant, amount of candy. The parade included members of the Fall sports teams, including Dragons Football, who has had some success this year, including wins over Firth and Soda Springs heading into Friday’s game with a 3-2 record. At 3-3 afterward, the team is facing
its biggest challenges of the season as they look forward to the tail end of the season with games against Declo (who defeated Soda Springs by a sizable margin over the weekend), and West Side (who is at 5-1). The Cross country team is the largest in many years, and includes increasingly energized runners at the underclassmen and senior levels, as well as the middle school. Both Men’s and Women’s Cross Country have been having a fantastic year, and just came off the Eagle Swoop in Marsh Valley with the men placing second as a team, and the women fifth. The Lady Dragons continued their ongoing dominance in Volleyball, as they continue to march through an undefeated season. Coverage of team sports can be found on pages 11 and 12 of this issue. In addition to those teams, the parade also featured MHS’ amazing
cheer and dance teams, along with the band. The School Board, Boosters, and many others helped join the class floats that brought a smile to the faces of those watching on from the crowded sidewalks. In this issue we also bring you the bios of your MHS Dragon Royalty, whose handwriting itself is a work of art (as their teachers can no doubt attest). On Page 4, you’ll find those writer-ups, as well as a collection of pictures from the parade on Friday. The parade also saw the appearance of the America250 representatives, who were accompanied by a set of Revolutionary Spuddy Buddies who rode through town. More plans for America250 are being developed, and we will bring you updates on them as we receive them. The weather stayed perfect, the company throughout town was unbeatable, and the class of 2026 put on a great show!
Braylee Price shines at state DYW competition Malad’s own Braylee Price represented Oneida County with grace, talent, and enthusiasm at the Idaho State Distinguished Young Women (DYW) Program, held October 10th and 11th in Idaho Falls. Braylee joined 36 of the top young women from across the state for a week filled with service, learning, and unforgettable experiences. The participants arrived in Idaho Falls the Sunday before the competition to begin rehearsals, learn their onstage routines, and take part in service projects throughout the community. Over the course of the week, the girls built lasting friendships and prepared for three onstage performances showcasing their skills in Talent, Self Expression, and Fitness. The DYW program recognizes excellence in five key categories: Scholastic, Interview, Talent, Self Expression, and Fitness. The Scholastic and Interview portions make up 50% of each participant’s overall score, while the remaining 50% comes from Talent, Self Expression, and Fitness. Braylee’s hard work and dedication shone brightly as she was named a finalist in both the Fitness and Self Expression categories, and she was also honored with the “Be Your Best Self” Award—a recognition given to participants who exemplify the DYW spirit of personal growth, leadership, and integrity. Reflecting on her experience, Braylee shared: “What a week! I’m so glad I got to have this opportunity to represent Malad! I have learned so much this week. Not wanting to go, it was all worth it in the end—one of the best
Braylee Price (#35) was a finalist in several categories at the State DYW competition over the weekend.
weeks of my life. I made so many friends and met so many amazing, beautiful, talented, and smart young women. I just wanted to thank everyone who supported me and believed in me when I didn’t—my family, friends, and leaders who were there for me, and especially my mom and dad for being here for me no matter what! I left with $2,100 of scholarship money, one heck of an experience, and friendships I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.” At the conclusion of the event, Kallie Stoddard of Grace was named the overall Idaho Distinguished Young Woman and will go on to represent Idaho at the National DYW Program in Mobile, Alabama. Braylee Price took over as DYW for Oneida County from 2025 DYW Madelyn Shaw, who was preceded by the previous winner, Alexus Tarbet. Tarbet was the winner of the Talent portion of the competition at the state level, and a state finalist. She was preceded by Raegan Smith, who
was named the state first alternate for 2023. Malad’s participants have had a lot of success at the state level, due in no small part to the support of the local organization, chaired by Nikki Schawrtz, and the backing of many individuals and groups throughout the community. The community is proud of Braylee for her accomplishments and the positive way she represented Malad and Oneida County. Her dedication, confidence, and kind spirit truly embody the values of the Distinguished Young Women program. Founded in 1958, Distinguished Young Women is a free program that encourages participants to reach their full individual potential. Our mission is to empower young women by providing over $1 billion in scholarship opportunities, connecting with a nationwide network of women, developing their self-confidence, and participating in our Life Skills Workshops that prepare them for success after high school.
INSIDE THE ENTERPRISE Elementary News................................Pg. 2 Homecoming.......................................Pg. 4 Puzzles................................................Pg. 6
Looking Back.......................................Pg. 7 Mayor’s Walking Challenge...............Pg. 10 Sports.......................................... .Pg. 11-12
When severe skin allergies left Arbon Valley resident Sarah Jensen searching for relief, she never imagined it would lead to a thriving business. After years of battling painful rashes triggered by commercial soaps and detergents, Jensen began experimenting with natural ingredients in her kitchen. Using goat’s milk, essential oils, and locally sourced herbs, she created gentle, all-natural soaps that soothed her sensitive skin. Friends and family soon noticed the difference and began requesting bars of their own. What started as a personal remedy has grown into Sage Valley Soaps, a small business with a loyal following across Idaho. Jensen now sells her products at farmers markets and online, emphasizing transparency and sustainability. “My goal is to help others who struggle like I did,” she said. “Natural doesn’t have to mean expensive, it just means honest.” Her journey proves that healing can inspire innovation.
AccuWeather Predicts Stormy, Active Winter for the Northwest The Pacific Northwest is bracing for a stormy and active winter, according to AccuWeather’s latest long-range forecast. Meteorologists predict a series of strong systems beginning in December, bringing above-normal precipitation and early mountain snowpack across the Cascades and northern Rockies. While the region is expected to see frequent bouts of rain and snow, warmer sea surface temperatures in the Pacific could limit snowfall at lower elevations. However, higher terrain will likely experience repeated snow events that could boost water supplies heading into spring. AccuWeather forecasters also anticipate that January and February will bring another surge of storms, with the jet stream shifting northward to deliver heavy precipitation and occasional flooding risks. Residents are urged to prepare for fluctuating conditions, including potential travel disruptions, localized flooding, and rising heating costs as temperatures dip below seasonal averages.
3rd Grade Class Gets Magical Disney on Ice Surprise for Feel Good Friday IDAHO FALLS. A third-grade teacher and her entire class received a heartwarming surprise when Disney on Ice performers visited their school for “Feel Good Friday.” The students were overjoyed as characters from beloved Disney movies danced and sang, bringing magic right into their classroom. The teacher, known for her dedication and kindness, was nominated by parents for the special event. Organizers said the surprise was meant to celebrate educators who make a difference. The day ended with free tickets for the class to attend the upcoming Disney on Ice show in their city.