Enterprise The Idaho
Event Center holds ribbon cutting, open house
The new-as-it-can-get Caribou County Event Center at the County Fairgrounds in Grace held its ribbon cutting last week, giving the public a chance to tour the facility and see what the community space is like.
The project, which has been in the making for around seven years, was largely funded through ARPA and PILT funds, rather than by creating a new taxing district.
The Event Center is designed as a community resource, which will now permanently house the county’s Ag Extension Office, Fair board, and County emergency vehicle bays. It also boasts a large event space, with the capacity to hold hundreds of visitors.
The Open House was a festive night, which gave people an early chance to wander through the space and see how the building that had been taking shape over the last year plus had finally all come together.
The night was kicked off with Serendipity, the Grace High School Choir group, who honored the attendees with a fantastic rendition of the National Anthem. A video of the performance can be found on our Facebook page, by searching “Idaho Enterprise Caribou County.”
Following the performance, Board of County Commissioners Chair Mark Mathews and County Com-
missioner Bryce Somsen cut the ribbon at the entrance, officially opening the building. The two gave some brief remarks.
Chairman Mathews recounted the history of the project: “On behalf of the commissioners and the other elected officials from the county I’d to welcome everybody here and say a few things about this event center. It started out about seven years ago, when were going to build a pole barn to replace the big top tent that they put up during the fair. That seemed like it was going to be expensive for the benefit from it. So we tried to get a grant to do something like this event center, and that fell through. And then COVID hit, and the government started shoveling money our way. It seemed like every commission meeting, somebody was there looking to get a piece of that pie. And they came out with ARPA money [American Rescue Plan Act], and there was about two million dollars set aside. The ARPA funds didn’t have as many restrictions, and for years we’ve been leasing space from the city of Grace for the emergency service vehicles in this part of the county, and we thought that if we added the emergency service vehicles to the building that we’d be able to utilize the funds and end up where we could say that we accomplished
something with those funds. At the same time, the state was pushing counties to get rid of some of their surplus funds.”
Mathews continued, “We’re pretty blessed to live in Caribou County. The county tries to hold a year’s budget in reserve, and the state came out and said that was too much and we needed to reduce those surplus accounts. We had money in the PILT funds [Payment in Lieu of Taxes— funds from state land in the county that can’t generate revenue], and in an effort to comply with the state, we put the two funds together and this is what we have to show for it.”
“The Extension office will be moving here, and we hope the community will grab hold and put it to use and it will be something that benefits the community for years to come. With that said, Bryce is going to say a blessing on the food, and we’re going to eat.”
And then both of those things happened.
Afterward, the commissioners took their places on the server side of the line and dished out food to the guests, along with members of the clerk’s office. It was an early chance to use the kitchen, which is situated
Community Christmas Concert readies for December 14
‘Tis the season, and ‘tis even moreso each day as we move closer to Christmas itself. Before we get there, though, there is still time to stop and enjoy some of the wonders of the season—case in point, the sights and sounds of the Caribou Community Choir and Orchestra Christmas Concert, which will be held at the Soda Springs High School Auditorium on December 14 starting at 4:00 p.m., free to the public.
The 38th year of the performance is themed “O Come, He is Born!” and has a full slate of choir, orchestra, and combined numbers in store. Songs will range from the traditional to the more unexpected, but all will celebrate a message of hope and joy during the season.
The program has been under rehearsal for a number of weeks, and the performers met during their last two practices as a combined group in order to finalize the numbers.
The practice session itself was a chance for the directors to fine-tune their numbers with the benefit of hearing how the two groups meld with one another, and to get a sense of the effect of the richer and more dynamic soundscapes involved.
The gathering area of the Presbyterian church was filled to capacity with a full choir and orchestra pit, essentially, taking up the room. The practice was cheerful and energetic, with the calm guidance of the directors leading things along.
A sneak preview of the set indicates that those who attend this coming Sunday will have a treat in store for them.
IN THIS EDITION
The program will begin with a candlelight processional, followed by an invocation and welcome.
During the program, the orchestra will perform “The First Noel” and “Sleigh Ride” as instrumentals, while the Choir will perform “White is the Winter Night,” “Let it Snow,” “Betelehemu (Nigerian Christmas Song),” “Once in Royal David’s City,” and “Star of Bethlehem,” and “O
Wyoming Highway Patrol Tracks Down Missing Wisconsin Teen, Arrests Alleged Kidnappers En Route to Utah
A missing Wisconsin teenager was safely recovered after the Wyoming Highway Patrol intercepted a vehicle carrying the girl and two alleged kidnappers along Interstate 80. A regional alert had been issued for the teen, who authorities believed was traveling with a 20-year-old man wanted on drug charges. Using cellular data, dispatchers traced the suspects’ movement between Laramie and Rawlins, allowing troopers to locate the vehicle near Sinclair. During the traffic stop, officers found the teen in the back seat and detained the two men, who claimed they had been “hired” to take her to Utah. Investigators are reviewing that claim, but both suspects now face kidnapping and custody interference charges. Highway Patrol officials praised the coordinated response, crediting communication among agencies for the girl’s safe recovery and swift resolution.
Plan Your Magical Night at the 2025 Fantasy at the Willard Bay Lights Show
Willard Bay State Park is gearing up for another season of holiday magic as the 2025 Fantasy at the Bay Lights Show returns December 1–24. The annual drive-through attraction transforms the park into a glowing winter landscape featuring thousands of colorful light displays from 5:00 to 10:00 PM. Families can enjoy the illuminated route from the comfort of their vehicles, making the event an easy, festive outing. Admission is $20 per vehicle for up to eight passengers, and special-event rules mean annual, senior, and honor passes are not accepted. Guests can also purchase 3D glasses at the gate, adding extra sparkle to the vibrant displays. With its warm holiday atmosphere and bright decorations, the Fantasy at the Bay Lights Show remains a favorite tradition and a memorable way to celebrate the season.
BYU–Idaho Student Accused of Kidnapping 4-Week-Old Baby in Costco
A BYU–Idaho student is facing serious charges after allegedly removing a shopping cart containing a 4-week-old baby inside an Idaho Falls Costco. Police arrested 24-year-old Michael Garrison Raine after surveillance footage reportedly showed him pushing the cart several aisles away while the baby’s mother briefly browsed in the book section. Raine later claimed he had accidentally taken the wrong cart, but investigators say the recorded footage contradicts his explanation. The infant was located quickly and unharmed, thanks to the mother’s report and assistance from store employees. Raine was charged with second-degree kidnapping and later released on bail. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on December 10 as authorities continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Sheriff Adam Mabey, Chairman Mark Mathews, Commissioner Bryce Somsen, Clerk Jill Stoor, and County Coroner Casey Batterton.
The Choir prepares for the Dec 14 concert
Community Concert
Come All You Unfaithful.”
The combined group will perform “Oh Holy Night,” “The Manger of Bethlehem,” and The Hallelujah Chorus” together.
Tatum Dodge will be singing the vocal solo on “The Manger of Bethlehem,” and Kim Mumford will sing the solo on “O Come All Ye Unfaithful.” Instrumental soloists will include Tanner Davis and Rodger Sorensen.
Directors for the evening include Tanner Davis, Kimberly Mumford, Vince Burgoyne, and Anne Olorenshaw.
Accompanists for the concert will be Michele Hart, Kim Mumford, Amy McCurdy, and Jeannine Robinett.
The Board of Directors includes: Chairperson Wade Olorenshaw, Vice Chairperson Vince Burgoyne, Executive Director Kathleen Campbell, Executive Choir Director Kimberly Mumford, Executive Orchestra Director Anne Olorenshaw, Secretary Wade Olorenshaw, Orchestra Librarian Diana Mickelsen, Choir Librarian Dianna Mickelsen, Treasurer Wade Olorenshaw, Properties Manager Garrett Hill. Bob & Marilyn Kukachka, and Rodger Sorensen are donors.
Event organizers state: “A heartfelt thank you to all our dedicated
musicians, their time in rehearsals, and their talent and love of music. A special recognition goes to our very talented and experienced directors and accompanists who have made our rehearsals fun as well as a great learning experience.”
The organization brings a great deal of joy and solemn celebration to the county during the Christmas season, primarily relying on grant funding and the generosity of members to help purchase music scores and equipment. They are a 501(c) (3) charitable organization under tax exempt No. 16-1727584 and welcome tax deductible donations. You can contact board members
Grace City Council Report, Nov 19
This report is adapted from the official minutes recorded by City Clerk Shelley Reeves. Bills in the amount of $141,345.00 and payroll in the amount of $16,739.22 were reviewed for payment approval, which was unanimous.
Superintendent Crookston presented the following permit: County Permit #2025-074BF Kyle & Megan Hannan - New home. Zoning Chairperson Kladis reported that the zoning commission held the public hearing on the zoning map amendments. There were a lot of concerns from the public that attended the meeting. The zoning commission didn’t make a motion to accept or deny the zoning map amendment and made no recommendation to the city council. Mayor Barthlome opened the meeting to discuss the zoning map amendment changes. The city council discussed each area to be changed individually starting with the commercial block that goes from 3rd North to 4th North and Main Street to 1st East. After discussion with homeowners who live on the block, and the city council pointing out that if the block is left commercial someone could put a business on the block and the city would have no right to tell them they couldn’t. The city council agreed to go forward with changing the block from a commercial zone to an R1 residential zone.
The city council discussed the area that goes from Center Street to 4th North and 1st East to 4th East. The city had asked for the public hearing to change that zoning from R1
Residential to R2 Residential. The city council discussed the changes and what they would allow in the area with the property owners in attendance. After the discussion, the city council decided not to make any changes to that area and to leave it zoned R1 Residential.
The city council discussed the area from 10th to One Mile Road on the west side of the highway. There was discussion in previous meetings about changing the zoning from R1 Residential to Agriculture due to the area having few homes and the homes that were there having larger lots. In a previous meeting it was decided to change it from R1 Residential to R2 Residential which does allow animals if the property is over 1 acre, but the property owner must apply for a conditional use permit and the city is able to determine what will be allowed on the property. After the discussion during this meeting the city council agreed to go forward with changing the zoning from R1 Residential to R2 Residential with Councilmember Toone voting against the change.
The next area discussed was the ½ block in the Turner Subdivision from 1st West to halfway through the block from 10th South to 9th South. It was explained that the rest of the block and the Turner Subdivision was already R2 Residential so this change would bring the block into conformity with the rest of the subdivision. The city council agreed to go forward with changing from R1 Residential to R2 Residential. The last area discussed was the block from 2nd West to 3rd West from Center Street to 1st
South. The block is currently zoned commercial but there are only residential homes on the block. The city council agreed to go forward with changing from commercial to R1 Residential. These changes will be sent back to the planning and zoning commission, who will have to redo the public hearing and make a recommendation to the city council before any changes take place officially.
Councilmember Butikofer moved to approve a $500.00 donation to the Caribou Historical Society, which was approved unanimously.
Mayor Barthlome told the council about an opportunity for a grant that has been made available because the United States of America will be 250 years old in 2026. The grant is to help communities do something to help recognize the anniversary in their city. Mayor Barthlome was approached by the Rotary Club in Soda Springs and asked if Grace would be willing to apply for the grant and then if the grant is received to donate it to the rotary club so that they can bring the traveling Vietnam Memorial to Soda Springs during the summer of 2026, which will benefit the entire county. Councilmember Toone made a motion to approve applying for the grant and if received, donating it to the Soda Springs Rotary Club. Councilmember Tillotson seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Lowe moved to approve the purchase of a TV and stand for the council room to be used as a projector for training and meetings, which passed.
Kathleen Campbell at 208-5402155 or Wade Olorenshaw at 208681-1163 for assistance with donations, if interested.
My intention had been to visit the practice in order to get some pictures and ask a few questions, but I found myself captivated by the wonderful atmosphere and the heavenly sounds—so much so that I had to make myself leave in order to make the next appointment. Don’t miss the concert this weekend, on Sunday December 14 at 4:00 p.m.
Like last year, there will be time to mingle with the musicians and experience some additional festivities after the concert. See you there!
Councilmember Toone moved to approve a $250.00 Christmas bonus for the employees. Councilmember Lowe seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Superintendent Crookston reported that employees has been busy training on the new equipment at the wastewater treatment plant. The heater inside the generator room has also gone out and a fire almost started. That heater and the heater in the chlorine room are both very old and need to be replaced before the next meeting. Councilmember Butikofer moved that the city council pursuant to Idaho Code §74-204, amend the agenda for this meeting to approve the purchase of heaters at the wastewater treatment plant. The good faith reason being the problem was just found today. Councilmember Lowe seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Councilmember Tillotson moved to approve the purchase of new heaters for the wastewater treatment plant. Councilmember Butikofer seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Superintendent Crookston informed the council that Intermountain Gas suggested that the city make an ordinance requiring a winter construction shutdown where no digging for water or sewer is allowed except in the case of an emergency. This will be discussed at a future meeting. Mayor Barthlome thanked the employees for putting up the Christmas lights. She also thanked Clerk Reeves for her work on the audit.
Fatality Crash in Caribou County
The Idaho State Police reported that they are investigating a single vehicle collision that occurred at 5:55 pm on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, on Kelly Toponce Rd in Caribou County. According to a release from the agency: “A 58-year-old male and 66-year-old male passenger from Blackfoot, Idaho were traveling northbound on Kelly Toponce Rd in a side-by-side ATV. The Driver lost control and went off the side of the road and overturned the vehicle. Driver and passenger were not wearing seatbelts. Driver and pas-
senger were transported via ground ambulance to local hospitals. The Driver succumbed to his injuries at the hospital on December 6th, 2025. The passenger was transported with non-life-threatening injuries.”
The driver and passenger were taken to Caribou Medical Center.
Caribou County Coroner Casey Batterton released the name of the driver, Jlee Smith, 58, of Blackfoot. Batterton expressed his condolences to the family of the victim. The collision remains under investigation by Idaho State Police.
The orchestra practiced with the choir for the last two weeks in preparation.
Anne Olorenshaw and Tatum Dodge, who will be singing a solo.
COMMUNITY NOTES
Adopt a Grandparent Tree at Heritage
All Aboard the Christmas Express! Our annual adopt-a-grandparent tree is up!
According to the organizers: “We want to make sure each of our residents have something under the tree to unwrap on Christmas morning. If you would like to help us, please come to Heritage and choose a train engine off the tree in the entryway. Each one has a wish list from one of our residents. Purchase all or some of the items on the list, wrap them, label with the number and return them to Heritage by December 18. Thank you! (To get in the main door, push the small silver button to the right of the door).”
Teacher Giving Tree in Bancroft
The Giving Tree will be up from November 10 to December 11. All items bought for the teacher will need to be turned into the school or to Dusti Spencer by December 11. If you would like to help out but cannot make it to the school, please contact Dusti Spencer (208). 221-5472 or you can Venmo money to the school to put toward the items. If you do Venmo, put PTO in the comments. The PTO thanks you for helping them help the teachers.
Toys for Tots at Porters
The Toys for Tots Annual fundraiser is scheduled for 6:00-9:00p.m. at Porter’s in Soda Springs on Saturday, December 13.
Raffle tickets will be sold at the
cost of $5/each, or 6 tickets for $25. The raffle will include a Mossberg Patriot 270 Winchester. More information will be posted as it develops. Snow Concerns
Across the valley, the dreaded “S” word is ready to gentle pounce any second now. As snow begins to accumulate, make sure to check with your individual location’s snow removal and parking rules.
In the towns and cities, the consensus is that parking off the street will allow snowplows the space they need to clear the roads. Residents are encouraged to make sure the streets are clear of vehicles during periods of snowfall or anticipated snowfall, with the potential for fines or other repercussions for failing to do so.
We will bring you an update on each individual location’s specific ordinances as the white stuff gets closer to its appearance.
Candlelight Christmas Eve Service at the Presbyterian Church
On December 24th, 7 P.M. at the Presbyterian Church in Soda Springs. Everyone is welcome. Special music and prelude by Heidi Walker, harpist. Carols and a brief message will be presented.
Submit to the Community Notes
Community notes are generally designed for non-profit or service-based information for the community. If you have an item that you would like placed in the paper, please email brandon.h@ idahoenterprise.com.
PET CORNER
From the animal experts at SSAC
As our beloved cats grow older, the way we care for them deserves a little extra love, attention, and understanding. By the time many pets reach 7 years old, they’re entering their “senior” phase — and with age often comes new health challenges.
One of the most common concerns is arthritis. Studies show that radiographic signs of arthritis appear in nearly 90% of cats by age 10. Yet cats are masters at hiding discomfort. Instead of limping, they often show subtle changes: hesitating before jumping, slowing down, sleeping more, or eating less. Recognizing and addressing these changes early can make all the difference in quality of life.
Organ dysfunction, particularly chronic kidney disease (CKD), is another challenge that becomes more common with age. Cats over 10 years old have about a 40% chance of developing CKD, and that number climbs to nearly 80% in cats over 15. Early signs can be easy to
HELP
miss — drinking or urinating more than usual, mild appetite changes, or weight loss. In more advanced stages, nausea, weight loss or diarrhea may develop.
Because these conditions often develop quietly, senior blood work is vital. Routine blood tests, coupled with urinalysis, can detect early signs of kidney, liver, or thyroid issues — often before outward symptoms appear. Catching disease early means veterinarians can guide dietary or medical changes to slow progression, helping your older pet enjoy a longer and more comfortable life. At Soda Springs Animal Clinic, we are the perfect team to help you advocate for your senior pets, ensuring that their golden years are about comfort and longevity.
As caretakers, we can honor our aging companions with patience, gentle care, and regular checkups. The golden years may come with aches and changes — but with attention and heart, they can also be filled with peace, dignity, and many shared moments.
WANTED
EVENTS CENTER SCHEDULER
Caribou County is seeking to hire a Scheduler for the new Caribou County Event Center. The scheduler will be responsible for managing event bookings, coordinating with clients and county staff, and ensuring that the scheduling calendar and event details are accurate and up-to-date. They will need to respond to inquiries about facility availability and services as well as collect fees and prepare claim forms for the center’s expenses. The position will be part time and office space will be available in the events center in Grace, ID. We are looking for someone who is organized with good customer services skills. Applications are available in the Clerk’s Office at the Caribou County Courthouse or online at www.cariboucounty. us. Please return applications to Caribou County Attn: Jill Stoor at 159 S. Main, Soda Springs, ID 83276.
SSHS Students of the Month
This month’s Students of the Month at Soda Springs High School are listed below. We congratulate them for their excellence, and wish them continued success!
9th: Dannie Frandsen, 10th: Noah Hansen, 11th: Junior Horsley 12th: Austin Housley
on Your Feet This Winter
Grace City turkey winner Joyce Bennett with Riley Crookston. We will bring you the full set of pictures of winners once the last ones come in!
Event Center
between the event area and the smaller conference room area of the building.
As the event continued, the hosts of the Small Town Ruckus Podcast—Tracy Davis, Kaid Panek, and Casey Batterton—entertained the crowd with Caribou County trivia and prizes, and music, as part of a live broadcast. Davis mentioned some of the potential uses for the space (which is available to the public for booking at excellent rates), and noted that the commissioners are excited for as many people to use the space as possible. “That’s what’s super cool—we can put things on, and come in and use the place respectful, and there will be a lot of things you can do here. I think young Casey will have to manage us on that, Kaid,” Davis joked.
“It will allow us to hold programs and activities that would have been impossible without it,” Extension Educator Justin Hatch said. “It’ll completely change everything we do, I think. Give us a lot more opportunities. Provide more opportunities to kids and the community that just weren’t possible before.”
The fact that the Event Center is right next to the Fairgrounds was also a major plus, as Hatch and 4-H’s Rachel Hamilton pointed out. Many of the 4-H participants come from the Bancroft and Grace side of the county, and the location makes for an eas -
ier visit for them, and of course, is next door to the perfect facilities to train and practice on.
The Extension office suite also contains classrooms, equipment areas, and at least one room that may be used for Fair board meetings or other county needs, though at press time the final allocation of space hadn’t been set.
A lobby area works as a smaller event room, next to an corridor containing restrooms. The other side of the building, which was not open during the tour, contains the emergency vehicle bays.
While COVID seems like the distant past, the funding streams for ARPA and other offshoots of stimulus were only four years ago at their outset. Different entities spent the funds in different ways, but in the most prudent cases (because it basically
Fish and Game Corner
BY CONNOR LIESS, IDFG PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
had to be accepted or it would be repurposed elsewhere) it was used for infrastructure and longterm, material assets. The event center had been something of an out of reach idea without these funds available.
Despite the headaches of change orders and changes in federal government requirements during the process, the end result is a spectacular multi-use space that should stand for many, many years as a hub for the county as a whole.
In a related note, last week the power was off across all of Oneida County for more than twelve hours over night. The fully powered shelter for warmth and medical assistance? That’s right— Oneida County’s Event Center, completed around five years ago.
Fill every crevice of your freezer by hunting these small game species this winter
Have you ever heard of the Forestland Trifecta?
Small game hunting through winter is a great way for hunters young and old to develop their skills and confidence without breaking the bank. You don’t need specialized or expensive gear to hunt them, just a .22 long rifle and/or any shotgun, warm clothes, and boots suitable for hiking. The skills learned while small game hunting — including tracking, handling a firearm, field dressing, and cooking the animals you harvest — harken back to the early days of the sport and later translate directly to big game hunting.
In particular, learning to process and clean small game helps new hunters understand the basics of field dressing before they move to larger game. Seeing the woodlands blanketed in snow and pocked with fresh game tracks is like following a treasure map, and instilling in these young minds the habits and patterns of various small game species is a great way to connect youth hunters to the land, animals, and hunting. Here are three of the most commonly found (and exciting) small game species to hunt this winter.
Red Squirrels
• Season dates: Aug. 30 – March 31
• Bag limit: 8 per day
• Equipment essentials: Small-caliber hunting rifle, air rifle or shotgun; hiking clothes and boots
• License requirements: Small game or annual hunting license They were barking at you all fall. You’re tip-toeing into elk country when all of a sudden a Douglas fir starts chirping excitedly at your unwelcomed arrival. The resident red squirrel living
on the fifth floor of that lodgepole provides both veteran and rookie hunters an excellent opportunity to extend their hunting season.
Red (or pine) squirrels — not to be confused with their larger cousins, fox squirrels, which are also reddish in color — are native to Idaho and have a wide distribution. As most big game hunters will attest, they are active during the day, stockpiling seeds, conifer cones, nuts, and fruits before winter snow buries the forest floor. Because of their diet (we are what we eat), red squirrels have an earthy, almost nutty flavor. Pun intended.
If you’re lucky enough to bag a couple of red squirrels this season, try any number of crockpot recipes. Squirrels can be lean and tough, and are best broken down slow-cooker style as a hearty addition for soups, stews or tacos, or sautéed in butter and herbs.
Forest Grouse
• Season Dates: Aug. 30 – Dec. 31* (ends Jan. 31 in Area 1)
• Bag limit: 4 in the aggregate per day
• Equipment essentials: Small-caliber hunting rifle or shotgun; hiking clothes and boots; upland hunting vest
• Licensing requirements: Small game or annual hunting license
Forest grouse are crafty, clever midsized birds that inhabit much of the state’s forests. Commonly found on public lands, they provide a hunting opportunity for nearly anyone. There are three species of forest grouse in Idaho, all of which are native to the state: the dusky (blue), ruffed and spruce grouse. Grouse have an uncanny knack for bursting out of a tree roost when a
hunter comes too close, often times giving the hunter a near heart attack; however, these birds will sometimes ignore humans altogether as you creep in for a close shot. Depending on your preference, you can either attempt to shoot flushing grouse on the wing with a shotgun, or stationary grouse in the trees with a small-caliber rifle.
An important reminder that grouse hunters need to leave one wing attached to the carcass during transport. Once plucked, de-winged, and ready to process, hunters can serve up the breast and thighs a number of ways, including sautéed in butter and thyme in a skillet or dusted in flour and deep-fried.
Cottontail/Snowshoe Hares
• Season dates: Aug. 30 – March 31
• Bag limit: 8 per day
• Equipment essentials: Small-caliber hunting rifle or shotgun; (warm) hiking clothes and boots
• Licensing requirements: Small game or annual hunting license
Few hunting experiences rival winter rabbit and snowshoe hare hunting. The trees are stripped bare and the air is crisp and silent. Hunting for these species is an incredible way to introduce youth hunters to the sport. Sure, it’s 25 degrees and the thermos of hot chocolate back at the truck sounds pretty darn nice, but following the tracks and habits of wintering small game species is a fun way to get family and friends outdoors.
Seeking out rabbits and hares can also be an inexpensive way to introduce youth to hunting and field dressing. This time of year, you’ll need to have a sharp eye as rabbits and hares are notoriously nimble, often found in
thick brush, thorn bushes and fallen pine boughs. One option is for hunters to find a high point overlooking a relatively clear area and hunt with a scoped, small-caliber rifle, keeping an eye on openings near cover. Another is for hunters to attempt to flush out rabbits by walking through areas of dense cover and to harvest them on the run using a shotgun. If using the latter approach, it’s not a bad idea to hunt with a friend or two, which will help you cover more territory and potentially flush more rabbits. A dog may also count as a friend.
If you or your budding hunter are quick enough to bag one this season, you’ll find that rabbits and hares are among the easiest to skin in the field. After removing the feet at the ankle knuckle, make a small incision up the back of each hind leg. Pull the skin of each leg towards its pelvis, then continue pulling the hide towards the head down the midsection, as if you were taking its sweater off. Once cleaned and quartered, rabbits can make an excellent addition to stews and roasts or deep-fried. Whether you’re new to hunting or a long-time veteran, hunting for small game can be an exciting way to keep your marksmanship sharp and your freezer full during the colder months. Remember: Hunters will need a 2026 hunting license beginning on Jan. 1. For more information on upland and small game seasons and regulations, check out the 2024-2025 Fish and Game Upland Game, Turkey & Furbearer Seasons and Rules booklet available online or at authorized licensed vendors.
Extension Educator Justin Hatch with 4-H’s Rachel Hamilton.
Serendipity wowed the crowd with their anthem rendition. Video on our Facebook page.
The main Extension office suite.
County officials served food to the crowd.
An early look at the event rental space and storage loft.
Kaid, Casey, and Tracy from Small Town Ruckus emceed the event.
The kitchen is available conveniently positioned in the middle of the floorplan.
Ag Myths of the Season
BY ALLISON ELIASON
Mother Nature has treated us well but we all know that a real Idaho winter is just waiting around the corner to bring an end to these mild temperatures we have been enjoying. Farmers and ranchers will be the first to admit that we need the moisture of a good winter but they might also be the first to admit that they absolutely don’t want the cold.
Seeing them out in the cold day after day, we might assume that winter on the ranch is easy, no big deal for those farmers and ranchers. Unfortunately, those happy assumptions are false. Today I’m here to break through a few of those blissfully wrong assumptions we might have about those hard working people in the agriculture industry. Some you might already know but there might be something new for you to learn about farming and ranching in the winter.
Myth #1: Farmers and ranchers get a break in the winter Fact: Things certainly slow down in the winter, that’s true. But winter can actually be the most demanding season with a workload of daily feeding, breaking ice, calving prep, equipment repairs, and emergency weather response.
Myth #2: Livestock “don’t mind” the cold
Fact: Winter can be hard on livestock even if they still look content on the frozen range. Animals need more calories, shelter, and constant monitoring in freezing temps. Naturally their bodies prepare and adjust to the demands of winter but there are limits to what that hide and back fat can endure. It’s up to farmers and ranchers to keep them safe and healthy, making their own adjustments to feed, bedding, and shelter to help them weather the winter.
Myth #3: There’s nothing to do
when fields are frozen
Fact: Even farmers who only tend crops in the field don’t have the winter months off. Winter is full of behind-the-scenes work like equipment maintenance, planning next year’s crops, budgeting, record keeping, and fencing projects. This is the time they work on certifications for pesticide use or spraying application.
Myth #4: Tractors sit idle all winter long
Fact: This idea couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, on some operations, tractors are used more in the winter months than even in the haying season. The daily winter chores require a lot of tractor hours for feeding livestock, pushing snow, and handling any sort of emergency that is likely to pop up.
Myth #5: Winter ag is calm and peaceful
Fact: It certainly can be a beautifully peaceful time. But at the same time, winter is unpredictable — blizzards, frozen pipes, mud season, and latenight problem solving are part of the job. Combine that with unpredictability of calving, breakdowns, and cattle
BRAIN TEASERS
in general, it can actually be the most hectic and draining time of the year.
Myth #6: You can just “stay inside” if it’s too cold
Fact: Livestock still need care, regardless of wind chill, drifting snow, or subzero temps. In fact, the days that are too cold are the days farmers and ranchers suit up for a long hard day making sure the animals are comfortable and tucked in before they are. Both as good stewards of their herds and in an attempt to keep their livelihood intact, producers can’t ever take a day off because it’s too cold.
Myth #7: Snow gives animals all the water they need
Fact: Snow isn’t a reliable water source. Eating enough snow to meet daily water intakes is too draining for cattle. The energy needed to first take in so much snow and then to melt the snow while keeping their bodies warm is too much. Effectively eating snow is actually a learned skill for cattle. Hard crusty snow is even more challenging for cattle to consume. Livestock need constant access to unfrozen, clean water, which means daily checks, heaters, and breaking ice for ranchers.
Myth #8: Frozen ground makes chores easier
Fact: About the only upside of frozen ground is hard ground. But with it comes, obviously, comes ice and ice is never nice. Ice creates dangerous, slippery conditions, not only for farmers and ranchers but also for livestock making their way across those frozen patches. Cattle hooves don’t have any grip to them so one wrong step on the hazardous terrain could easily lead to a downed cow that will never walk again.
Myth #9: Winter driving on the ranch is no big deal
Fact: Country living on lesser maintained rural roads isn’t for the faint of heart. And not all situations can be answered with a trusty tractor. Icy roads, deep drifts, and whiteout conditions driving a semiload of straw or a trailer full of cattle, even a short distance, can be white-knuckle, seat-pinching stressful and risky.
Myth #10: Ranchers are used to the cold, so it doesn’t bother them
Fact: Dropping warm gloves to go elbow deep in a freezing trough, shirking a coat to give the assist to a struggling cow in labor, laying in the snow to fix down equipment- these are things I have seen farmers and ranchers do on the coldest of winter days. And I can tell you they didn’t like it. They just had to do it. You never really get used to frozen fingers, numb toes, and stinging wind — you just learn to push through.
Most people imagine winter as a slow season in agriculture — a time when fields rest and farmers finally take a break. The truth? Winter is one of the hardest-working seasons on the ranch. While snow blankets the pastures and frost settles in, daily chores don’t stop. In fact, they often double. It’s a season of frozen fingers, early mornings, and a kind of quiet grit most people never see.
EVENT CALENDARS
SODA SPRINGS CARIBOU COUNTY
Friday, December 12th
BBB @ Bear Lake
GBB Districts @ Home
Wrestling @ Kellog
IDAN-HA Movie
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Saturday, December 13th
GBB @ Declo
IDAN-HA Movie
Sunday, December 14th
Presbyterian Services
Caribou Bible Church Services
Catholic Mass (8:30am)
Open Arms Church Services
LDS Services
Hope Lutheran Church
Monday, December 15th
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
Tuesday, December 16th
GBB @ American Falls Wrestling vs WS/Firth
Wednesday, December 17th
Board Meeting @7
GBB vs West Side
Semester Exams
IDAN-HA Movie
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Thursday, December 18th
Semester Exams
IDAN-HA Movie
BIRTHDAYS
Charlotte Grace Brown, Dec. 1
Scott Davis, Dec. 1
Andy Robinson, Dec. 2
Ruth Sparks, Dec. 2
Melissa McDowell, Dec. 6
Shannon Gentry, Dec. 6
Lynn Rasmussen, Dec. 6
Larry Perron, Dec. 6
Kathy Neal, Dec. 8
Mark Fugate, Dec. 8
Sharon Sweet, Dec. 6
Rorie Bartschi, Dec. 9
ShaLayne Bartschi, Dec. 9
Pattie Stringham, Dec. 9
Sandy Fugate, Dec. 10
Craig Shuler, Dec. 11
Allyne Crossley, Dec. 12
Catholic Daily Mass (6:30pm)
GRACE
Sunday, December 14th
LDS Services
Monday, December 15th
Preschool Story Hour @ Library 10:30am
BANCROFT
Friday, December 12th
MS GBB w/ Clark
GBB/BBB Home w/Clark
Saturday, December 13th
Wrestling @Marsh Valley Tournament
Sunday, December 14th
LDS Services
Monday, December 15th
Elementary Winter Concert Elementary Winter Concert 7-8 P.M.
Tuesday, December 16th
MS Girls BB w/ Grace Lutheran GBB Home w/ Grace Lutheran
Wednesday, December 17th
MS Girls Basketball w/ Watersprings
Thursday, December 18th
GBB/BBB @ American Heritage
Vivien Mendenhall, Dec. 12
Scott Bevins, Dec. 13
Terry Johnson, Dec. 15
Jerry Jeppsen, Dec. 17
Gloria Evans, Dec. 20
Michael Pabst Jr., Dec. 20
Kathie Keller, Dec. 21
Linda J Anderson Dec. 24
Marian Lester, Dec. 24
Meri Hovanski, Dec. 26
Elaine Swope, Dec. 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
SODA SPRINGS LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Fruit, Veggies & Milk
Monday, December 15
Uncrustable, chips, fruit, veggies, and milk
Tuesday, December 16
Potato soup, breadstick, fruit, veggies, and milk
Wednesday, December 17
BBQ pork sandwich, fries, fruit, veggies, and milk
Thursday, December 18
Christmas breakfast! Bkfst scramble, cinnamon roll, fruit, veggie, milk
NORTH GEM LUNCH MENU
Milk and Choice of Bar Each Day
Monday, December 15
Italian Dunkers, Deli Bar, Garlicy Green Beans, Ambrosia Salad
Tuesday, December 16
Soft Shell Tacos, Honey Mustard Chicken, Deli Bar, Roasted, Carrots/Apricots
Wednesday, December 17
Big Mac Slider, Shepherd’s Pie w/ Br. Stick, Deli Bar, Layered Lettuce Salad, Mixed Fruit
Thursday, December 18
Corndogs, French Dip, Deli Bar, French Fries/Fresh Apples
GRACE LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Milk
Monday, December 15
Breakfast (with hash browns), fruit, veggies, and milk
Tuesday, December 16
Chicken fajita, churro, fruit, veggies, and milk
Wednesday, December 17
Ham, cheesy potatoes, roll, fruit, veggies, and milk
Thursday, December 18 Pizza, fruit, veggies, and milk
CARIBOU COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS' MENU
Every meal served with Juice/Milk/Coffee
Dec 12 - Chicken Noodle Soup with Mashed Potatoes, Oatmeal Bread, Mandarins, Birthday Cake & Ice Cream*
Dec 17 - Biscuits & Gravy, Peas, Peaches, Paradise Cake
*Birthday Cake and Ice Cream is served in-house only!
ON THIS DAY
1620 Mayflower Pilgrims come ashore in Plymouth Bay, traditionally thought to be at Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts
1844 First dental use of nitrous oxide in Hartford, Connecticut, by John Riggs on dentist Horace Wells
1882 Boston’s Bijou Theatre the first American playhouse lit exclusively by electricity, holds its first performance: W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan’s comic opera “lolanthe”
1909 Colored moving pictures are demonstrated at Madison Square Garden in New York City
1913 “Mona Lisa” is recovered two years after it was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris
1980 “Magnum P.I.” starring Tom Selleck premieres on CBS
1981 Former world heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali’s 61st and last fight; loses to Trevor Berbick by unanimous decision
in 10 rounds at Queen Elizabeth Sports Centre, Nassau Bahamas
1991 “Hook”, a swashbuckling film sequel to the Peter Pan story, directed by Steven Spielberg, and starring Robin Williams and Dustin Hoffman premieres
2006 Jerry Sloan achieves his 1,000th career win as coach when his Utah Jazz defeat the Dallas Mavericks
2009 Angry Birds, a Finnish puzzle video game, is released internationally and becomes a massive global success
2012 British physicist, Stephen Hawking, wins the $3 million Fundamental Physics Prize, the most lucrative academic prize in the world
2019 Discovery of the earliest figurative artwork in the world, 43,900 years old, featuring figures part human and part animal, from a cave in Sulawesi, Indonesia, reported in the journal “Nature”
LOOKING BACK AT PAGES FROM THE PAST
The following stories are summarized from past issues of the Caribou County Sun over the last fifty plus years. The Enterprise thanks Mark Steele for permission to use the contents, and the Grace Public Library for access to the archives.
2020 Gem Valley Performing Arts announced that the annual Community Christmas Concert (“Our Stories of Christmas”) will be presented in a virtual format. As organizers explained, “While we hoped, crossed our fingers, and prayed that we could hold our concert in person, it didn’t happen. We decided we still all need a little Community Christmas, even if it will be in our living rooms. Our performers have been wonderful to adjust to a different format of performing. They have been gracious with their time and talents to bring the “Christmas feels” to all of you.
The following people will be performing: Dana and Nona McCurdy, Becca and Alan Renfroe, Kalea Christman, Jeff Godfrey, Jonathan Balls, Charlene Balls, Trinidy Muir, The Gem Stones—Liz Hughes, Lisa Palmer, Cherrie Roberts; SDC—Kade Anderson, McKenzie Martinsen, Joslin Mickelson, Jayden Andreasen; Six Strings—Kathleen Campbell, Evenlyn Curtis, Heidi Walker, Andrew Walker, Marilyn Young, Kim Thompson; CCCO Brass and Strings—Elizabeth Olorenshaw, Deborah Olsen, Kate Williams, Anne Olorenshaw, Wade Olorenshaw, Isaiah Olsen, Charlene Cunnigham, Ralph Peterson; Ron Hughes, Melanie Bice, Dean Lake, and Michelle Moss. Narration is by Bob Kukachka and Mark Bryant.”
On Monday, Bancroft City had the annual lighting of Teuscher Square. Due to COVID-19, the city was not able to offer the annual dinner and socializing. However, Santa was able to make an appearance. Kids were able to visit with him and give their holiday wishes. Bancroft City Council would like to thank Tammy Jensen for donating her talents to make Santa’s beautiful red velvet bag.
The Lady Cowboys were all set to travel to Sho-Ban on Tuesday, Dec. 1, however the game was canceled due to a Sho-Ban player testing positive for COVID. On Friday, the Lady Cowboys did travel to Grace Lutheran. They won the game 40-33. Dannika Barfuss and Hayden Corta both scored 10 points, Elizabeth Michaelson had nine rebounds, and Makayla Mabey had four steals. On Saturday, the Lady Cowboys hosted the Grace Grizzlies. Grace won the game 35-16. Coach Christensen was pleased with the girls’ hard work and improvement.
2010 Main streets of southeastern Idaho’s rural communities, once full of small town America vitality, have seen prosperous businesses leave or close, leaving empty buildings and little traffic. Each spring rural communities in Idaho and across the country watch another class of high school students line up for graduation, but instead of taking over a family business or finding work locally, most prepare to leave for college or jobs in larger cities. While youth migration is occurring for many complex reasons, educational and career options exist for Idaho youth who wish to stay in their rural communities. Online education may end up being one of the saviors of rural Idaho.
2005 Ryan Weaver met again with the Soda Springs City Council last Wednesday to promote a citizens committee over the police department. Weaver, Soda Springs, said was representing the Coalition for Responsible Caribou County and said his oversight committee idea was the “best method to solve serious problems to our city.” He said he had been asked by the council to investigate other cities the size of Soda Springs regarding any such committees. The only one in the state he found was Boise, which has an ombudsman. Saying that “nothing short of terrorism” was being committed “in this city,” Weaver made allegations that officers were lying and attempting to destroy individuals. Mayor Kirk Hanse interrupted Weaver. “I won’t sit here much longer and let you lambaste our department,” he said, adding that the city has proce-
dures and policies for complaints and there are other remedies beyond that if he was not satisfied. Weaver said if a complaint is made, it is passed off to another police officer (agency) to be looked at. “I urge you, as keeper of the flock, to step forward,” he stated, adding that he was concerned about the police department and the “taxation upon this city for liability.”
Councilwoman Lynda Lee told him there wouldn’t be any officer who would want to work for Soda Springs if his citizens commission was implemented. She said officers were honest and were doing their job. Weaver said he was representing a coalition of victims. Council President Randy Prescott said that he did know of any substantiation of the claims, and had not seen any complaints to that effect as a councilmember.
“A committee (of citizens) cannot have the power to discipline city employees,” Prescott said.
“If you feel you have been denied due process, there are opportunities through legal resources,” Mayor Hansen said. “I’ve had one active case I’m aware of,” he said about the many years he has served as mayor. “My recommendation to the council is to proceed no further. “That is my feeling at this time.”
A second class on “Online Safety Tips for Parents” is being planned at the Grace Performing Arts Center. The interactive presentation is free to the public. A similar class was recently held in Bancroft. The presentation is under the direction of the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office and is for parents, grandparents, and those adults who have computers connected to the internet where a child may access it. Deputy Adam Mabey said adults need to be aware of the dangers from the internet for youth who are online. He said it was too easy for predators to access children and youth without them even knowing they are being targeted.
Caribou Memorial Hospital Foundation’s first ever “Drive-by-Shooting,” held on Nov 22 was successful, according to foundation member Dawn Corbett, who helped by taking temperatures prior to a nurse administering the flu vaccine. The foundation decided last spring at its planning retreat to provide this as a community service this year since last year’s flu vaccine was in short supply and not everyone who wanted a shot was able to get it, Corbett said. It was believed that because of last year’s international problems, there would be plentiful vaccine this year. That didn’t happen as the hospital’s supply of vaccine that was ordered in the spring didn’t arrive until Nov. 16. Many people who had been relying on the hospital’s supply had already obtained their shots from other sources. At the “Drive-by-Shooting,” as its name implies, shots were given to some people in their vehicle as a convenience to them. The weather turned out to be beautiful. However, most people came inside, had their shot in the Mt. View Clinic, and enjoyed cookies and punch provided by the foundation.
Kaelyn Daniel and Tyler Balls re-
ported: “On Thursday, the 5th grade from Hooper School visited Dry Valley Mine. When we arrived, we were greeted by Mr. Steve Gilmer, who told us where we’d be going and what we would be seeing while we were there. After splitting up into two groups, we were shown the pit and all the mining equipment. WE also went to Agrium’s Dry Valley office and were shown a slide show about the history of mining and about the work that is done at their mine. We learned about all their equipment, including how big they are, how much they hold, how fast they can go, how much their tires cost, and how much fuel they take to run them. They explained to us how they find the ore and how they extract it. One interesting fact we learned was that they drive on the left side of the road at the mine because it’s easier for the driver to see the side of the road. We really enjoyed the field trip and we would like to thank Mr. Gilmer, Mr. Kline, Mr. Smith, Mr. Skinner, and all the other people at Agrium who showed us around and made this possible.
1990
The Bear River Task Force was told there is a need for a dam south of Soda Springs and there was the enthusiasm to build. They heard those comments at their public hearing Monday in Soda Springs. The Idaho task force was put together to consider the needs along the river and make recommendations to the governor and legislature by Dec. 31. Rep. Robert Geddes, Preston, said he and Sen. Dennis Hansen cochair the task force. The group has held several meetings in Soda Springs, Montpelier, and Preston over the past year as a result of Utah’s interest in developing their water rights, primarily for future and much-needed use along the Wasatch Front. Marc Gibbs, chairman of a local task force on the Caribou Dam site at Soda Springs, said there are several reasons for construction of the dam at the location south of Soda Springs, Last Chance could use up to 10,000 acre feet more of the water for their stockholders, and Farmers Irrigation said they may be interested in about half that amount.
A recount of Caribou County election results has showed some slight changes, but nothing to cause a change in the outcome of two fairly close races in the floaterial district. Allan Larsen, Republican, defeated Jim Christiansen, Democrat for state senator, as did Republican Myron Jones over Mike Hovey, the Democratic opponent for representative, by only a few dozen votes among the seven counties in the district. A recount was asked. Caribou County Clerk Becky Jenkins said Christiansen gained one vote, but Larsen gained eight more in the county recount. In the Jones-Hovey balloting, both men gained one more vote in Caribou County. District wide a few totals were changed in the counties, but not enough to overturn the original election results.
Linda Johnson reported that “The Family History Centers in Soda Springs and Bancroft have recently received the
computer hardware and software to run Family Search. The librarians at the Family History Search Centers hope that people will come to the center to use this new tool for family history. The Family History Department of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been developing computer tools to simplify genealogical research. These tools are part of a growing system of personal computer-based programs and data bases called FamilySearch. It is an automated system of family history information. It consists of programs designed to work on personal computers and files drawn from the church’s family history computer files. The information in each of these files is distributed on “compact discs.” These “discs,” which are similar to the audio compact discs sold in record stores, are capable of storing large amounts of information—the equivalent of 1,500 conventional floppy diskettes, or about 320,000 pages of text on each disc. They are read by computers equipped with a special compact disc player and with the FamilySearch software. The most exciting program on compact disc at the Family History Centers is the Ancestral File. The Ancestral File is a computer file with seven million names linked into families and pedigrees. Ancestral File displays information by individual family group record, pedigree chart, or descendants chart. As part of the Family Search system, Ancestral File also includes help keys and the ability to print your discoveries on paper or to copy data to your own diskette. Using the latest technology for family research is exciting. One patron has found on the system the Royal lines of Europe, which includes dates going back earlier than the 900s. You can visit the Family History Center in Bancroft or Soda Springs.
Thursday, December 11 Friday, December 12 Saturday, December 13
Now You See Me:
Now You Don’t (PG-13)
A diamond heist reunites retired Horsemen illusionists with new performers Greenblatt, Smith and Sessa as they target dangerous criminals.
Thursday, Friday & Saturday 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Saturday Matinee 2:00 p.m. (All seats $5)
Wednesday, December 17
6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. (All seats $5)
It was a busy month for Santa, as he showed up in Soda Springs last year!
Soda Springs City Council Report 12/3
A regular meeting of the City Council was held on December 3. The agenda was fairly light, with two public hearings and department reports. The final meeting for this year will be held on December 17, and the next on January 7. Significantly, the new city government will move into their positions next year, with current mayor Austin Robinson and current City Councilman Rod Worthington taking their leave and mayor-elect Paul Gritton and Councilwoman-elect Paige Byram taking their new positions.
Public Hearing on MARSHE parcels
Two contiguous parcels on the western edge of town were the subject of hearings for the city council. The properties have been in discussion for a number of meetings at the city council, and a final decision was due.
There were no comments, either for or against from the public.
One of the parcels is inside the city limits and the other is in the impact zone. The city parcel was under discussion for a rezone, while the impact zone parcel was under discussion for annexation and rezone.
A motion to approve the rezone was made by PG. The motion declared that the rezone will be to C2 from R1. The motion passed.
A separate hearing was held for the annexation of the parcel and rezone of the property inside the impact zone. The impact zone is a legally required area surrounding the city limits that represents an area where the city and county share planning and growth responsibilities. In impact zones, residents can request annexation into the adjacent city, but they cannot be forced through this process to do so.
In this case, the property will be annexed into the city. “The only real requirement is that it be contiguous with the city,” Attorney Tom Smith noted. It borders property owned by the requester.
The City boundary will need to be resurveyed to include the boundary, which the city can require the owners to do. City Attorney Smith suggested that they include language to that effect in the motion.
Council President Hart motioned to annex the parcel into the city limits and require the owners of the property to provide a licensed surveyor to survey the new boundary.
A motion to rezone the property to C2 was made to match the adjacent prop.
Public Input
Former City Services Director Justin Hansen spoke to the council. He wanted to express his thanks to Rod Worthington and Austin Robinson for their service to the city as the look forward to their next chapters.
“I appreciate the relationship we had when I was here,” he said. He also gave a shout out to the city crews. “There are a lot of good things going on Soda Springs. We can be proud of where we live. As a taxpayer and a resident, I just want to offer my thanks to the city.”
Project Updates
Engineer Alan Skinner spoke about the outlook for grants, which is somewhat up in the air at the moment.
The 3rd East sidewalks are done, a thanks to the weather, have already been shoveled.
Councilman Worthington noted, “I get to be crossing guard this week,
NEWS OF RECORD
CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF
Bexultan Abylkhani, Stanford, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Zachary Tyler Allen, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Dane Edward Archibald, Gilbert, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Dustin Derek Beckstead, Soda Springs, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00
Eli Jomax Brooks, Evanston, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Craig David Bryant, Council Bluffs, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Samuel Patton Cook, Layton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Dillon J Cooper, Logan, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00 Stuart Nygaard Davis, Paradise, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00
Tiago DeSouza Weisheimer, Bancroft, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00; speeding, $33.50, cost $56.50
Bryan Jay Drollinger, Star Valley Ranch, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Cameron Todd Earnest, Perry, speeding, $33.50, cots $56.50 Ian Scott Edgar, Fruit Heights, additional equipment clearance lamps required, $10.50, costs $56.50
Denny Edwards, Rigby, fail to register vehicle annually, $10.50, costs $56.50; operate vehicle without a current or valid class d/operators license, $150.00, costs $157.50; stop and yield sign violations, $33.50, costs $56.50 Harold J Flint, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Felipe Carcia, Lehi, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Nathan Todd Gugelman Ii, American Falls, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Nicholas James Hencley, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Anthony Hale Johnso, Frisco, speed-
ing, $33.50, costs $56.50
Keith C Jorgensen, Grace, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Qian Li, San Francisco, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Clayton R Lively, Soda Springs, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50; motorcycle endorsement violation, $44.50, costs $56.50
Brant Clay Lohnes, Fish Haven, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Joe Wayne Love, Ammon, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00
Maung Aye Lwin, Kennewick, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Jacoby Leo Mattson, Preston, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Lindsey Shenae McCulloch, Soda Springs, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Newton Herbert McNeill, Grace, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00
Deegan Ray Mullen, Soda Springs, fictitious display of plate or registration card, $59.50, costs $56.50
Logan Neil Mumford, Soda Springs, fail to register vehicle annually, $10.50, costs $56.50
Jorge Silva Pezqueda, Taylorsville, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Brandon Michael Poplar, Franclin, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Mason Masao Richards, West Haven, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Emanuel Rosas Valazco, Nampa, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
John Nixon Rowley-Carrasco, Freedom, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Monty Blake Shonk, Mandan, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50; driving without privileges, $150.00, costs $172.50
Connor S Viehweg, Cokeville, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Esther Shalene Whitaker, Salem, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
and it’s nice to say to the kids—‘walk on the sidewalk, not the street’.” He noted that there has been good support from the community.
Dept Heads
Library
Hope Hansen reported on the Festival of Trees. Friends of the Library President Beth Cheirrett was not able to be at the meeting to present the report alongside Hansen, so she opted to wait until the next meeting to present the financial results of the event, which went very well.
“We had the Memorial Tree put up,” Hansen said. The Memorial Tree is not a project run by the Library, but it is hosted by the library. The tree is a place where peoplecan hag ornaments to commemorate loved ones. It is open to anyone to hang ornaments on. A program was held inside the library prior to the outside ceremony. “We had around 50ish people,” Hansen said. Rich Evans was the speaker.
SSPD
Chief of Police Cejay Golightly spoke to the council briefly, stressing one main message: “This last week we handed out 30-40 letters about city parking.” City crews need to steetsides clear for snow removal during the winter, as plowing around cars can create safety and traffic hazards. It can also cause residents’ cars to become snowbound.
City Services--Jeff Young New lights have been put into the new city shop building, and “It’s nice. You can see.”
They should be getting the substation inspected soon. One of the
Shane David Zaharias, Grace, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00
SODA SPRINGS POLICE
Jed William Child, Pleasant View, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Sean Edward Day, Bar Nunn, malicious injury by placing debris on publi9c or private property, $150.00, costs $56.50
Rafael R De La Torre, Miami, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Aspen Tye Holsten, Bancroft, fail to register vehicle annually, $10.50, costs $56.50
Landon R Neild, Etna, improper left turn from special lane, $33.50, costs $56.50
Erkut Yener, Astoria, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50; operate when unsafe or improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $56.50
IDAHO STATE POLICE
Peter Joseph Balick, Tacoma, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Anthony Chavez, Vineyard, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Antonio Gutierrez Camarena, Jackson, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Lincoln Jay Hepworth, Frisco, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Kellen James Taylor Lahaye, Bancroft, driving under the influence, $500.00, costs $303.50, 18 months probation – Agency: SSPD
Thomas Ian Loughney, Salley, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Christopher R Ocampo, Lynwood, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Tyler Jason Perkins, Bancroft, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50; fail to provide proof of insurance, $75.00, costs $56.50
IDAHO PORT OF ENTRY
transformers is leaking oil.
Councilman Gritton mentioned that the lights on Main 2nd South look really good, and he thanked Young for his work on them.
Fire/Water--Dan Squires
A discussion about whether to have the Fire Extinguishers in the kitchen checked in Enders was had. It was decided to continue to delay that.
A contractor hit a line on Soda Creek. Squires believes the city will likely need to replace it with a better one.
Clerk Haderlie
The clerk explained that the office had started to receive calls about the recent increase in utility rates. She said that once the staff explained to most callers what the purpose of the increase was and the state of the infrastructure, the necessity was understood.
Recreation Director Jessica Thurman mentioned that Basketball would be held this Saturday. Quite a few 1st and 2nd graders signing up.
The department built a small shelter at the ice rink, which is up and “will do what we need it to.” They will be building up ice layers for the next week. It’ll be about 9 inches at the highest, and 4 or 5 at the lowest. She said, “there is a lot of excitement” among many locals about the rink. “They have pickup games planned and it’s going to be really cool.”
There are a number of skates and sticks that need to be sorted for rentals.
Election Results
It is required that the city accepts the certified election results from Nov. 4., which they did.
Murodbek Tolipov, Baynton Beach, operate motor vehicle with out-of-state suspension $100.00, costs $56.50
MAGISTRATE COURT
Bode Travis Adams, Marriott-Slaterville, careless driving, $100.00, costs $157.50 – Agency: CCSO
Marcus James Amerman, Santa Fe, possession of marijuana, $500.00, costs $307.50, 100 hours of community service, 24 months probation –Agency: SSPD
Douglas Kim Christensen, Soda Springs, careless driving, $300.00, costs $207.50, 90 days jail, 90 days jail suspended, 24 months probation; disturbing the peace, @300.00, costs $157.50, 90 days jail, 90 days jail suspended, 24 months probation– Agency: SSPD
Michael Dee Crotts, Pocatello, possession of controlled substance, $150.00, costs $740.50, 45 days jail, 43 days jail suspended, 2 days credit time served, 3 months probation; consume or possess open container by driver, 45 days jail, 43 days jail suspended, 2 days credit tie served, 3 months probation – Agency: CCSO
Christopher R Ocampo, Lynwood, possession of marijuana, $500.00, costs $307.50, 100 hours community service, 12 months probation – Agency: ISP
Nathan Walter Smith, Menifee, fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer, $1,000.00, costs $207.50, 24 months probation – Agency: CCSO
Brandon G Turnbeaugh, Bountiful, possession of marijuana, $500.00, costs $197.50 -Agency: CCSO
Drexell John Utley Jr., Grace, disturbing the peace, $350.00, costs $157.50 – Agency: CCSO
Carla Marie Vega, La Puente, possession of marijuana, $300.00, costs $307.50, 12 months probatiion –Agency: ISP
Notice of 21-Day Public Comment Period and Public Open House for the Wastewater Facilities Planning Study
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
The City of Grace, Idaho is currently in the process of amending the City’s wastewater facilities planning study. As part of this process, the public is invited to review a draft version of the study at 108 E. Center St., Grace, ID, for a period of 21 days beginning December 11th, 2025 and ending January 2nd, 2026. City offices will be closed at 12 PM on December 24th and all day on December 25th and January 1st in observance of the Christmas and New Years holidays.
During this 21-day comment period, the City will hold an open house to discuss the study outcomes and the proposed improvements to the wastewater system. The open house will be held: December 18, 2025 at 6:00 PM Grace City Hall 108 East Center St. Grace, Idaho 83241
Citizens may also send written comments to any one of the following: Mayor Jackie Barthlome –email – jbarthlomegracecity@ gmail.com Jared Richens – email –jrichens@kellerassociates. com
Individuals with disabilities, who require special accommodations to attend the open house or otherwise participate in the public comment period, must make a request with the City at least seven (7) business days before the meeting by contacting the City of Grace at (208) 425-3533.
#1187-12-11-18-25-T2
Caribou County commission report 12/8
The Board of County Commissioners held a regular meeting on Monday. Among the items discussed were urgent response situations involving flooding at the county firehouse and a replacement server for the Sheriff’s office.
Sheriff Sheriff Mabey spoke to the commissioners about an after action summary put together by the department concerning IT issues. On Dec 4 at around 1:40 pm the Spillman system went down. During troubleshooting, it was found that the primary server for the office had gone down. A spare server at the courthouse is not suffiecient to work as a replacement, as it needs to meet the required Motorola specs. Sheriff Mabey jokingly referred to the IT room as “The Spaghetti Jungle” and summarized the response to the outage. Once the server went down, they lost the ability to operate computers as a dept. The office briefly went back to paper records for a while. The ability to book people into the jail was affected, though the system used to keep track of inmates stayed functional. Cameras were briefly out so they increased face to face observation to compensate.
On Friday, there was a secondary system failure which affected a number of parts of the system. Spillman is an integrated data management software system used by EMS, Police, Fire, etc.
The department replaced a motherboard and now they are back up to speed and “fully operating,” according to Mabey. But, he noted, they are sitting on an old system that he doesn’t “have any faith in any more.” The department requested a server refresh, and wondered about possibly putting a backup server in the building in Grace. They would like to distribute the critical virtual machines across the network. Motorola has quoted a new server at around $50K. Commissioner Somsen questioned whether the old server will be used as the backup.
Capital outlay in the SO is mostly devoted to vehicles. The commissioners requested numbers from the SO about what kind of funds they might need to cover these costs, and what was in the various budgets.
The sheriff clarified that there was no data loss as a result of the server failure.
The Commissioners agreed that the issue was an emergency, and that the sheriff should proceed with moving forward with a new server purchase, especially as there will not be another commission meeting before the next year.
A motion to approve a primary server for SO contingent on emails with the hard cost numbers passed.
Eric Hobson—EMS
Another urgent issue was presented to the commissioners by Emergency Services Director Hobson.
On Friday, there was a break in a water line at the county fire station, which flooded the building. It is not usable until it is fixed, which Idaho Fire and Flood is working on, The potentially due to a pipe weakened over time by Muriatic Gas.
A radio purchase was made for an APX radio. The MSRP is about $13K. He was able to get it for $5K. “We’re still buying radios, and when we can get a deal like that we have to.”
The department also bought cameras for buildings on Black Friday at a large savings.
Hobson attended an ambulance billing seminar last month, where it was observed that the county is bill-
ing much lower than average on rates. The average in state is almost $800, while the county bills $350. The rates have gone up through insurance companies. “We’re might look at time to increase our rates, where we are so much lower,” he said.
The county provides as much emergency service to residents as it can, but there are some services that likely need to be increased to be responsive. Hobson and the commissioners agreed that the ambulance service is not designed to be profitable, and just needs to be sustainable.
The opioid funds were used to replace the supply of naloxone for around $1000, which has to be approved by the commissioners, and was.
Caribou Historical Society
Galen reported that the CHS has met with organizations that have grant funds available. In order to qualify for the grant funds, they would need to have a historical preservation commission created through ordinance.
A draft ordinance was given to the county as an example to use to create such an entity. Doug Wood examined the draft document and the surrounding titles, and felt that there shouldn’t be any problem.
Jill Stoor asked whether the grant would limit the ability of the CHS to operate in certain ways. Wilson noted that for some projects above a certain figure might involve some addition regulation, but otherwise, it wouldn’t be an issue.
Commissioner Somsen noted that sometime boards are created that don’t necessarily persist. He suggested having a commissioner on the board to help keep it going. The CHS members will discuss the issue and bring an ordinance to the commissioners.
Kevin McLain—Road and Bridge
The new road grader is still en route, and should be here by the end of the week.
The crew are still hauling chips, which has been able to go on longer due to the weather.
McLAin reported that the county is still having stop signs vandalized throughout the county. Multiple signs have been stolen, and not always recovered. Each sign and post is worth about $500. They often end up in the river.
LHTAC grant for fiscal 2027 needed a signature to apply. A formal motion to accept signature was made. The grant would help double chip seal the Blackfoot river road.
Snow Removal for Bonneville county. Agreement was entered into and approved. This is an agreement that is done every year.
Corey Hopkins—Blackfoot Reservoir
Resident Corey Hopkins spoke to the council about snow removal at the Blackfoot reservoir, which is open all year to fisherman. “The only access is really at the dyke area,” Hopkins said, asking the county to increase access to the area through plowing during the winter. He said that the access is not good, and it is difficult to get into the location, which is a perfect spot for many purposes. “It’s quite a place out there. There are people that go out there to look at eagles, moose, even the lake. People go out there to walk dogs, just for walks. It’s the darndest thing you’ve ever seen. There’s lots and lots of people that want to go out there to ice fish.”
Kevin McLain talked a bit about how he approaches it. Some of the difficulty comes from the vehicles that can work in the space. Other issues come from the nature of the BLM and
county’s ownership of the land. “We just basically go across the dike,” McLain said.
“I’m in favor of trying to keep it open as long as we can,” Chairman Mathews said.
The boat trailer parking area was discussed. Hopkins asked that the county go across the dike and clear off the parking area. Access to the water itself is part of the issue as well, in terms of where people can access it.
Commissioner Somsen noted that because the land itself is BLM land, there has to be an agreement in place with them in order for the county to plow that area. Written permission from the BLM will be needed to do that.
Helen Barker—Planning and Zoning
A public hearing on changing an ordinance was held. The ordinance pertains to driveways in the impact zone. A motion to approve 2025-04 which allows for exceptions to driveway construction in the county passed.
Residential uses aren’t permitted in commercial zones, which is the reason that a rezone was discussed. There was some discussion about zoning within the county, and how the county viewed commercial, residential, and agricultural zones with regard to growth and development.
One of the underlying issues is the relatively recent explosion of the AirBnB and short-term rental sector of the market. Looking forward, the specters of Star Valley and Lava Hot Springs were raised with regard to some of the commercial designations throughout the county.
The two locations in question were the main intersections on Highway 30. The existing zoning has created some issues with small commercial zones inside other zones.
Rowdy Larkins noted that the areas were possibly anticipated as places where gas stations or other facilities might be located, though there are no current plans to do so. Barker noted that it would make more sense to revert to Ag and then wait for a request to build something to rezone.
There is no documentation as to why the areas were labeled commercial initially. It was speculated that this was done during the creation of the comprehensive plan.
Barker was also concerned about what is currently zoned as Industrial, and reconciling the property lines. The designations need to be in line with the comprehensive plan.
Barker also spoke to the commissioners about the RV Park. She had some concerns about the best way to use the funds for the park, so that the facility would be improved in ways that would make it most suited for residents. Past parks that have been created with grant funds have not necessarily been maintained as well as they could have been, and have fallen into disrepair.
Right now, the county has outlaid around $30K for the project, with the engineering, design, historical survey, and some materials.
Dwight Lloyd—Weed Dept
Lloyd listed a number of weeds that he would like to see listed as “discouraged” as an extremely invasive weed within the county. It is not possible for the county to add them to the Noxious weed list, but there are other ways to make the public aware of the issues and have the weeds discouraged. Bonneville county has a list of their own that they work at discouraging.
Lloyd would also like to work at getting rid of “No Spray Zones”. Doug Wood noted that here was no way to supersede that state law, but if individ-
OBITUARY
uals are not adhering to the state statutes regarding No Spray Zones, the exemption is voided. There are specific requirements for said signage that need to be met, and some of the weeds that become issues in the county as invasive weeds are spread this way.
Rowdy Larkins—Buildings and Maintenance
Mendenhall cleaning company, which works the fairgrounds, has asked for $85/day for four months, which could go up or down. RL prefers three times a week. The extension office cleans daily, though not as thoroughly as the service would.
Eventually, the building needs to be sprayed down with an epoxy seal, the commissioners thought.
A discussion about a place to add a cleaning/supply room in part of the bay area was had. This would allow for a more efficient way to allow for a supply closet area to help facilitate the cleaning of the building. This would allow storage and a sink for floor cleaning. The room where the tables and chairs are stored is sheetrocked, which caused some concerns about the walls and whether some sort of additional protection was necessary to limit any damage. “It needs something,” Mathews said.
The election supplies are one of the other storage needs for the building. Once a place is finalized for the cleaning closet, the allocation of the storage resources can be clarified.
Rocky Mountain Power Transmission Maintenance Project
A Zoom call with RMP and the commissioners was held on the transmission maintenance project.
The intent is to construct the project to increase capacity to meet the demand in the local area. The project will be two phased.
Reliability, Capacity, Public Safety, Efficiency are the primary reasons for the project from Franklin County into Caribou. “It’s lived a good life, but it’s in need of replacement.”
Phase 1 is a substation near Downey. Phase 2 is from Treasureton through Oneida and into Grace. And then to Threemile Knoll area.
The Phase 2 structures are the typical type that are similar to what is in place currently.
Right of Entry contacts with local landowners will be initiated soon. 23 miles of the line are in Caribou County. It follows the original transmission lines.
Jill Stoor Commissioner assignments and next year’s calendar were discussed. Commissioner Somsen suggested that it might be a good idea to assign a commissioner to city council meetings. He will be assigned as “City Relations” and “Treatment Court,”
The calendar for the next year will be 2nd and 4th Mondays, with the exception of January and December.
A contract with Ada county for autopsy services was approved. Caribou County is not in a position to performs autopsies itself, and the nearest location is in Ada County. Services are not any closer in Wyoming or Utah. A plan to create a forensic facility for autopsies in Pocatello was floated but then scuttled due to cost.
The SWCD(Soil and Water Conservation District) requested a commitment for funds for 2027.
The Event Center rental agreement was in a final draft form, and had been reviewed by Doug Wood. Further discussion of the rate schedule was had, with some minor points to be tweaked.
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Owen Wayne Ackerman
November 26, 2025
Owen Wayne Ackerman was silently born to Alexa Ackerman and Jesse Ackerman on November 26, 2025, at 10:55 a.m. in Soda Springs, Idaho. Owen will be forever loved by his parents, sister Paisley Ackerman, Maternal grandparents; Sandra and Jim Dartt, Paternal grandparents; Dawne and Roger Ackerman, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, family members and friends. He is greeted in heaven by Maternal grandparent; Terry Johnson, Maternal great grandparent; Virginia Smith, great grandparent “Midge” Chance and Paternal great grandparent Dale Ackerman. Though our time together was short it will be deeply treasured forever.
The Winter Sports Season Is In Full Swing
This past week the busiest high school sports season got fully underway. Every team in the county competed in their respective sport, many with multiple competitions. Girls basketball was the first winter sport to begin, starting just prior to Thanksgiving. With some games already under their belts the Lady Cardinals and Lady Grizzlies each hit the road to play in some early season tournaments. Grace took part in the Bulldog Challenge in Ririe while Soda Springs made the long trip to southern Utah to play in the Desert Hills Holiday Classic in St. George. North Gem’s Lady Cowboys also saw action last week as they were joined by their boys team in playing two double header games. The Grizzly’s boys team also opened
Lady Cardinals Play In Desert Hills Holiday Classic
BY JODY REEVES
For the fourth year in a row the Soda Springs Lady Cardinals traveled to St. George Utah to play in the Desert Hills Holiday Classic. The tournament features several schools from Utah and other areas, many of which are significantly larger than Soda Springs. The tournament is a great testing ground for the Lady Cardinals and although they tend to lose more games than they win in the tournament the larger tougher competition prepares them for the rest of their schedule. In this year’s tournament the Lady Cardinals were matched up with the host school Desert Hills as well as Box Elder and Salem Hills. Going up against Desert Hills in their first game the Lady Cardinals came out aggressive not backing down to the bigger team. The game was very competitive through the first two quarters of play and by the halftime break Soda Springs had actually earned a slim three point lead. As the second half began to wear on the larger Desert Hills players wore down the Lady Cardinals. After a very competitive first half the Lady Cardinals were outscored forty-two to eighteen in the second half suffering their first loss of the tournament.
Despite being blown out in the second half of their first game the Lady Cardinals were not done fighting. In their second game they faced off with Box Elder from Brigham City Utah. Once again the Lady Cardinals started off being very competitive. This time Soda Springs stayed competitive throughout the game and when regulation ended the
Lady Cardinals found themselves all knotted up at forty-four points a piece. The game went to overtime where Soda Springs was unfortunately outscored seven to four in the extra time.
Now sitting at 0-2 in the tournament the Lady Cardinals had one final shot to try to steal a win before heading back home to Idaho. In their final match up the Lady Cardinals took on Salem Hills high school. Once again Soda Springs became locked up in a tough battle. This time led by Courtnee Gronning’s team leading nineteen point performance the Lady Cardinals came away with a close three point victory. The Lady Cardinals finished their weekend with a win and plenty of gained experiences.
The Lady Cardinals return to their home court this week as they host their first conference opponent in the Wendell Lady Trojans on Thursday before hitting the road again traveling to Declo on Saturday.
Soda Springs 41 Desert Hills 68
C. Gronning 13, A. Davis 7, J. Tingey 7, E. Wood 6, J. Parker 5, M. Kempe 3
Soda Springs 48 Box Elder 51
C. Gronning 17, A. Davis 14, E. Wood 7, R. Harris 6, J. Parker 2, M. Kempe 2
Soda Springs 41 Salem Hills 38
C. Gronning 19, R. Harris 7, A. Davis 5, J. Parker 4, M. Kempe 2, J. Tingey 2, E. Wood 2
e Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition P.O. Box 331 Soda Springs, Idaho 83276
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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.
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Joint School District #150 250 E 2nd S Soda Springs, ID 83276
Phone: (208) 547-3371
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their season last week with a pair of games as did the Cardinal’s boys team. Finally all three schools saw their wrestlers get their first action of the season with the Cardinals making two road trips during the week and the Grizzlies hosting a girls tournament on Friday and duals on Saturday which North Gem attended. Needless to say it was a very busy week for our stu-
dent athletes and we did our best to see as many of them as possible and track down as many results as we could. It is a great time of year to be a high school sports fan and we are lucky to have three schools in such close proximity to enjoy watching these young athletes. Get out and support them as much as you possibly can. It should be a fun season for all.
Lady Grizzlies Play In Bulldog Shootout
BY JODY REEVES
The Lady Grizzlies spent last weekend in Ririe taking part in the Bulldog Shootout. Grace took their perfect 4-0 record into the tournament riding a wave of momentum built on wins over 3A schools. The Lady Grizzlies would not survive the weekend unscathed but were still able to pick up a pair of wins.
Grace began their weekend facing off with 4A Marsh Valley. The Lady Grizzlies got out to a solid start putting up thirteen points in the first quarter of play while holding the Lady Eagles to just three points. After the hot start the Lady Grizzlies went cold in the second quarter and the roles were reversed. Marsh Valley outscored the Lady Grizzlies by ten in the second and the teams were all tied up at the half. In the second half of play, some missed opportunities by the Lady Grizzlies combined with some hot shooting from the Lady Eagles saw Marsh Valley get enough of an advantage to walk away with a ten point victory. The Lady Grizzlies suffered their first loss of the year in that game but still had two more on their schedule for the weekend.
Next up Grace took on the North Fremont Lady Huskies. Once again the Lady Grizzlies got off to a hot start. Junior guard Presliegh Steadman rattled off nine points in the first quarter and Grace earned a nine point lead. Also just like their previous game the Lady Grizzlies offense slowed in the second quarter and by the halftime break Grace’s nine point lead had dwindled to just a single point. Determined to not let another game slip away from them, the Lady Grizzlies went back to work in the third quarter though things were not easy for them. Grace was able to add a few points to their lead but still only led by four points going into the final period of play. In the fourth quarter the Lady Grizzlies turned up the defense and held North Fremont to just
a single field goal to go along with a handful of foul shots. Grace ended up pulling away in this game winning by thirteen points.
In their final game of the weekend the Lady Grizzlies took on the Ambrose Lady Archers out of the Boise Valley. This game followed the same pattern as the first two games of the tournament. Once again the Lady Grizzlies jumped out to an early lead and once again they saw that lead evaporate in the second quarter. At the halftime break the Lady Archers led the Lady Grizzlies by two points. In the third quarter of play the Lady Grizzlies had six different girls score and added eighteen points to their running total. Entering the fourth quarter Grace now held a slim lead. In the fourth quarter both teams spent a lot of time on the foul line. The Lady Archers would make five of eleven foul shots while the Lady Grizzlies would hit nine out of sixteen. Grace survived their third game of the weekend winning by four points.
This week the Lady Grizzlies will travel to the west side of the state to take on New Plymouth on Friday and Prairie on Saturday. Both games will be played in New Plymouth.
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Mail or drop o at the The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 205, Malad Idaho 83252 100 E. 90 S., Malad, Idaho 208-766-4773
Grace School District #148 605 South 4th West PO Box 347 Grace, ID 83241
Phone/Black Canyon: (208) 425-3984
Grace HS (208) 425-3809 Fax: (208) 425-3809 North Gem School District #149
South Main St. Bancroft, Idaho 83217 Ph. (208) 648-7848
Fax. (208) 648-7895
Soda Wrestlers Start Off With a Busy Week
BY JODY REEVES
The Soda Springs Cardinals wrestling team participated in several duals last week. The week began on Wednesday at Minico where they dueled the host school Minico as well as Declo. In the dual with Minico the Cardinals failed to score many team points, only five Cardinal wrestlers won their matches in that dual. Their dual with Declo was much closer but the Cardinals still came up two team
points short of matching the Hornets. The Lady Cardinals also took part in those duals, but suffered the same fate as the boy’s team. Freshman Brooklyn Dodge was the only Lady Cardinal to secure a win in each dual. Following the brief mid-week dual the Cardinals next traveled to American Falls to take part in the Dahlke Duals. The girl’s team wrestled in a bracket style format. The Lady Cardinals had two placers, Brooklyn Dodge (140) finished in second
place, and Kaylin Richards (125) finished fourth. The Soda Springs boy’s team faced several teams in duals. In those duals the Cardinals picked up team wins over Kimberly and Wood River, but fell to Burley, Snake River, American Falls, and Declo. Individually several of the Cardinals were able to complete the weekend with winning records. Ryker Hemmert (132), Jace Garbett (144), and Kage Johnson (150) all finished with 4 and 3 records. There were
Cardinals Open The Season At Home
BY JODY REEVES
If you are any kind of a casual Soda Springs fan and you are wondering if it is worth your time to go to a boys basketball game this year let me assure you that it is. Myself and many others are anticipating a very good year for the men of Soda Springs. The Cardinals three headed monster in Cooper Thompson, Gavin Hansen, and Konner McWilliams have been playing varsity ball for Soda Springs for three years now. Now as seniors playing in their final season you can believe that they are ready to make some noise this year. The other starters for the Cardinals aren’t too shabby either. Fellow senior Preston Ozburn provides another quick ball handler and shooter while Logan Mellor brings some length and size to the line up. My own personal opinion is that the Cardinals should take care of their fifth district opponents and should only be challenged by Declo and Wendell for the district championship. In short the Cardinals are a very dangerous team that will cause several teams problems come tournament time.
Before we get too far ahead of ourselves there is a long season ahead of us and the Cardinals started their season last weekend with a pair of home games against two teams from the western side of the state. Soda Springs first took on a very big and well coached New Plymouth team on Friday night. That game got off to a bit of a slow start especially for the Cardinals. In the first quarter of play the Cardinals only managed to put three points on the scoreboard. Fortunately the Pilgrims didn’t do much better, only scoring seven in the opening period of play. The scoring began to pick up in the second period fairly quickly. Part way through the quarter the Cardinals managed to tie the score at twelve points a piece. Unfortunately that would be the closest they would get for the remainder of the game. The Pilgrims managed to stretch the lead back to five points at the halftime break. Soda Springs battled hard in the third and kept things close but could not get over the five to six point deficit. The fourth quarter was much the same. The Pilgrims would try to pull away and the Cardinals would
claw back into it but still could not get over the hump. Some late game fouls allowed the Pilgrims to take the lead up to nine points and secure the win though the game felt much closer than that. The big three from Soda Springs all managed to score in the game but didn’t get much help from anyone else. The Cardinals will need to get more players involved in the scoring if they want to be successful through the season.
Less than twenty-four hours after the disappointing opening loss the Cardinals were back on the court this time facing the Parma Panthers. This time the Cardinals came out red hot and jumped all over the Panthers. The nineteen first quarter points from the Cardinals was an improvement on the scoreboard but the fact that those points came from six different players was also a welcomed sight. The Cardinals built up an eight point first quarter lead then continued to distance themselves in the second quarter. By the halftime break the Cardinals seemed to be in complete control of the game now leading by sixteen points. The Panthers however weren’t throwing in the towel
also three wrestlers that finished with a 5 and 2 record that included Kellen Garbett (138), Troy Krupp (165), and Carson Cook (215). JT Cutler (126) suffered just a single loss winning 6 of his matches. Team leader and veteran wrestler Elijah Dilworth (190) finished with a perfect 7 and 0 record. If you want to see the wrestlers in action they will host Bear Lake on Wednesday before making a long trip up north to Kellogg for the weekend.
yet. Despite the Cardinals continuing to put up good numbers the Panthers came roaring back. The sixteen point halftime lead was trimmed to eleven by the end of the third. In the fourth quarter the Panthers put up an incredible twenty-five points very nearly completing the full comeback. Mellor would earn six of his nine points in the final quarter which proved to be huge for Soda Springs as they were able to hang on for the two point victory.
This week the Cardinals make the short trip to Bear Lake on Friday night to take on the Bears in a non conference battle. That should be a fun game for Cardinal fans to attend.
C. Thompson 22, G. Hansen 5, K. McWilliams 15
K. Peterson 4, C. Thompson 6, G. Hansen 28, K. Harrison 4, K. McWilliams 16, L. Mellor 9, P. Ozburn 3
Black Canyon Brawl/Grace Duals
BY JODY REEVES
This past weekend Grace high school hosted the first in-county matches of the season. The weekend kicked off with the Black Canyon Brawl Girls Tournament. This is a fairly new tradition for Grace to host this event at the first of the season. Unfortunately, this year’s tournament had very few local girls in attendance. Due to a variety of reasons only three Grace girls were able to participate in this year’s event. Despite the low number of girls the Lady Grizzlies represented their school well finishing with sixty-five team points and all three girls making the podium. In the 100 lb. weight class Adeline Clark was pinned in her first match of the day but then went on a run. After pinning her next three opponents in quick succession Clark arrived at the third place match
where she faced Serenity Brees from Malad. In a very tough match Clark came out on top winning by decision with a score of 11-10. The other two Lady Grizzly wrestlers were the Ball sisters. Hayden Ball wrestled in the 115 lb. weight class. Hayden dominated in the first three rounds winning each match by fall in less than one minute. With wins over wrestlers from Minico, Bear Lake, and Pocatello Hayden made it to the first place match. Hayden was up against Akeelah Gonzalez from Snake River in the championship match. Though she battled hard ultimately Hayden was pinned at around the three minute mark of the match and finished her day in second place. Holland Ball wrestled in the 135 lb. weight class. Like her sister Holland dominated the first three rounds of the tournament. Holland picked up wins
over girls from Thunder Ridge, Minico and Marsh Valley and like her sister all three wins came by way of pins in less than one minute. In her first place match Holland was paired up with Sabina Bennetts from Challis. In keeping pace with her sister Holland also had a tough championship bout where she too ultimately was pinned in just under three minutes. Holland joined her sister with a second place finish in the tournament.
With the girls all wrapped up for the week the boys took to the mats on Saturday for the Grace duals. These duals involved both Grace and North Gem. The two teams faced each other in one of the duals. In that dual Grace came out on top 36-18 but most of the Grizzlies points came by way of forfeit due to North Gem only having three wrestlers compete. In those three matches it was the Cowboys who grabbed wins.
At 132lbs North Gem’s Landon Hayes
won by fall over Grace’s Gabe Wiegman. Jaxyn Welker from the Cowboys made short work of Mark Hulse from Grace earning the fall in under a minute in the 150 lb. weight class. Lastly the North Gem senior Haydn Frandsen pinned Jackson Juncker from Grace in the 175 lb. weight class. As a team North Gem also suffered losses to Challis and both Thunder Ridge teams that were in attendance. However, individually on the day Hayes finished 2-2, Welker was 1-3 and Frandsen went 4-0. The Grizzlies were only able to pull off the one team win over North Gem while losing to Challis and the two Thunder Ridge teams. That being said, several Grizzly wrestlers did grab individual wins along the way. Jaden Lunt (126), Carter Kimball (138), and Mac Jorgensen (215) all went undefeated in the duals. Douglas Robbins (157) and Bradley Scheile (165) each finished with 3-1 records.
North Gem’s Haydn Frandsen started his season winning all of his matches in his opening duals.
Grace’s Carter Kimball started his senior campaign going undefeated in his home duals.
The Soda Springs Cardinals tipped off their season last weekend with a pair of very competitive games.
Logan Mellor blocks the attempted layup by one of the Panther players.
The Grizzlies Split To Open The Season
BY JODY REEVES
The Grace Grizzlies started their season last week with one home game and one road game. For the fourth year in a row the Grizzlies are beginning their year with five starting seniors. Much like the previous seasons the expectations are high in Grace. This year’s group of seniors has some well balanced players that have had plenty of varsity experience coming into the season. That being said, the five seniors have not spent a lot of time on the court as a group in a couple of years and could take some time to coalesce. The Grizzlies will also have to contend with some minor depth issues. The five seniors will be backed up by just a pair of juniors and a handful of sophomores. The Grizzlies will have to rely heavily on their senior leadership and will have to do their best to keep their post players out of foul trouble.
The Grizzlies started their season by hosting the West Side Pirates. The two schools have had some great battles in recent years with the Pirates more often than not getting the upper hand. Unfortunately for the Grizzlies that trend continued in last week’s match up. In the first quarter of play the scoring was nearly a mirror image of each other. Both teams hit a pair of three point buckets while adding one additional field goal. The difference in the opening quarter came at the foul line where the Pirates went two for two while the Grizzlies struggled going a dismal zero for five. The Grizzlies improved on their foul shooting in the second period of play this time making two out of four and matched their first quarter scoring output of eight points. However the Pirates still managed to outpace the Grizzlies scoring twelve in the quarter and took a six point lead into the half. Coming out of the half the Grizzlies floundered
while the Pirates surged getting up by as many as twenty points in the third quarter. The Grizzlies would manage to chip away at the large Pirate lead but the game was never really close again. Following a last second three point shot by Grace the final score was just a six point differential but the loss felt much greater than that.
After a tough opening season loss at home the Grizzlies had an ideal opportunity to bounce back and regain their confidence when they traveled to Aberdeen to face the Tigers. Aberdeen is a team on the decline and will likely find themselves at the bottom of the 3A rankings in the state. The Grizzlies were heavily favored in this match up and they would not disappoint. After a slow start to the game the Grizzlies finally got rolling about midway through the first quarter of play. By the end of the quarter the Grace lead was already at double digits. The Grizzlies would hold the
Cowboys Win Some Lose Some
BY JODY REEVES
Last week the North Gem boys and girls basketball teams paired up for two double header games. The Cowboys started the week early on Tuesday night hosting the Alturas Prep Pumas. For the Cowboy’s boys team the game marked their season opener while the Lady Cowboys were coming off of a thrilling one point victory over Watersprings Christian. The girls teams took the floor first. It was very quickly evident that the Lady Pumas were severely outmatched by the Lady Cowboys. At the conclusion of the first period of play the Lady Cowboys led by six but the game did not even feel that close. This game got ugly quick as the Lady Pumas failed to score the rest of the game going three full quarters without a basket. The blowout win gave the North Gem coaches a chance to get as many girls on the court as possible and by the end of the game eleven Lady Cowboys had contributed to the final score.
When the boys teams got their turn on the court the crowd was shown a much more competitive game. The Cowboys began solid
enough but missed a golden opportunity to take control of the game early. North Gem put up eleven first quarter points but only went one for six from the charity stripe. The five missed foul shots allowed the Pumas to match the Cowboys first quarter score as the teams were all tied up. The Cowboys were able to spread the ball around in the first half as seven different players added to the score. North Gem grabbed a lead in the second period and took a four point advantage into the locker room. The Cowboys were able to add to that lead in the third but still left plenty of points off the scoreboard by way of missed foul shots.
The Cowboy’s lead was now seven entering the final period. North Gem seemed to catch a second wind in the quarter and exploded for seventeen points and pulled away to an eighteen point victory.
Next up for the two North Gem squads was a short trip to Pocatello on Saturday to take on the Grace Lutheran Royals. This time it was the girls’ turn to have the close competitive game while the boys would play in a blowout. Unfortunately for the Cowboys both teams would end
up on the losing side of the stick. The Lady Cowboys came out a little slow and quickly found themselves trailing by seven points. In the second period of play the Lady Cowboys began to turn things around and started to cut into the lead. At the halftime break the Lady Cowboys now only trailed by four. In the third quarter of the play North Gem continued to battle and got to within a single basket. The game stayed tight in the fourth quarter and the Lady Cowboys began to collect fouls hoping to gain an advantage on the foul line. Unfortunately the Lady Royals made just enough of their foul shots to hold the lead and edge out the Lady Cowboys by six points.
In the boy’s game the Cowboys were outmatched by the Royals. North Gem was only able to manage two field goals in the entire first half of play. Fortunately the Cowboys did get to the foul line eleven times making nine of those shots to salvage something out of the first half of play. Conversely the Royals went on a roll and rattled off thirty-four first half points. Things did not improve for the Cowboys in the second half as the Royals ran away with this one. The Cowboys will take what they can from this game and then put it behind them.
Tigers scoreless in the second period and more than double their own score.
Grace went on to run away with this game winning easily with a running clock throughout the fourth quarter.
This week the Grizzlies will once again be heavily favored in one game when they host Alturas Prep on Wednesday before facing more of a challenge when they host Bear Lake on Saturday.
Grizzlies
Pirates 10 12 19 15 56
K. Edwards 3, G. Draper 6, C. Mecham 4, B. Smith 4, J. Wilkerson 12, C. Smith 8, P. Yost 13
K. Kimball 5, K. Edwards 3, G. Draper 4, C. Mecham 4, B. Smith 19, J. Wilkerson 2, C. Smith 12, P. Yost 18, C. Barthlome 5
There will be plenty of chances this week to see the Cowboys in action. Both the boys and girls will take part in double headers at home on Tuesday and Friday. In addition to those scheduled events the boys team only will also play at home on Thursday.
Lady Cowboys 10 17 17 13 57
Lady Pumas 4 0 0 0 4
G. Christensen 14, M. Rindlisbaker 14, O. Rindlisbaker 4, I. Hatch 2, C. O’Brien 2, M. O’Brien 4, S. Thompson 2, D. Frandsen 4, M. Barnes 2, K. Olenslager 4, C. Hatch 5
Cowboys 11 11 10 17 49 Pumas
Jonah Wilkerson quickly moves the ball up the floor for a transition basket.
Jeremia Perry sets up the offense in the Cowboys season opener last week.
Parker Yost plays through the contact to earn an and one opportunity.
Craig Yost drives past two defenders on his way to scoring two of his team high sixteen points.