Caribou County | June 4, 2026

Enterprise The Idaho

CMC hosts “Strides for Strength” fun run

Caribou Medical Center hosted a 5K Fun Run, as well as a younger runners’ version, last week to kickstart the summer, promote healthy habits, and bring providers, patients and the public together on a pleasant evening at sunset. May is Mental Health Month for health care institutions across the country, and there is no small correlation between physical activity and mental wellness.

Study after study has found the link between the two things to be clear, including a recent massive study of over 1.2 million adults published in The Lancet Psychiatry, which revealed that individuals who exercise have a significantly lower rate of poor mental health days compared to those who are sedentary.

Counselor Ashley Wright headed up the effort to promote and coordinate the Fun Run again this year, and she pointed to the impressive number of care providers who were not only proponents of a healthy lifestyle, but also modeling the behavior by participating in the race as runners.

As a Fun Run, of course, the primary purpose is to cultivate an en-

joyment of exercise for its own sake, and the mood was light and festive throughout the evening.

One of the featured providers at the event was Dr. Kellen Hansen, whose Sports Medicine/Orthopedic skills were exactly the right fit for the situation. Dr. Hansen, who has worked with world class athletes including the US Hockey Team and the San Antonio Spurs, will be starting at CMC fulltime by the next week. Hansen has been a specialist with CMC for some time (and in fact made his way from Texas to Utah as a result of the efforts of CEO Kent Loosle) but will be making his Idaho location a fulltime thing this summer.

While again not a hyper competitive race, the top runners were not holding back. Winners of the younger bracket were Aiden Ball, followed by Parker Lindley.

The adult run saw the top two finishers on the men’s side as Porter Hatch and James Birch. On the women’s side Cierra Mecham was followed by Brynlee Simmons.

While not a strictly timed race, there was plenty of good-natured

jockeying for position throughout, and some small measure of gloating after the fact.

Before the race itself started, Jeff Horsley led participants in a spirited stretching and warmup routine. No injuries were reported during the course of the evening’s events.

The 5K route heads south toward the reservoir and then west along the shore until it hits the midway point a mile and half or so and then heads back uphill to the finish line. The top adult time was a bit under twenty minutes, which is a more than respectable 5 kilometer (just over 3 mile) time.

A number of food trucks joined the hospital information tables around the lawn and hospital complex, and after the physical fitness events a film was screened on the hospital grass.

If you missed this Fun Run but you are still hoping to catch a race soon, GOAL (Get Outside and Live) is sponsoring one on June 20 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at the Bailey Creek water tower parking lot, 802 Old Oregon Rd in Soda.

Preparing for when things go bad… fast

It doesn’t make sense to wait until things are desperate to learn how to deal with them, or that’s the thinking behind the state mandated training for high speed and dangerous traffic situations that members of the Caribou County, Soda Springs, and Montpelier police forces undertook last week.

The training involved practicing high speed and skill driving techniques that allow officers to more safely engage in traffic pursuits and to negotiate potentially dangerous traffic situations.

In the past, officers have had to head out of town for the instruction, but with recently certified trainer Sergeant Taylor Peck available, law enforcement was able to book the airport to practice the requisite skills before testing for readiness.

Deputy Russ Roper of the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office explained some of the course, which he would soon be driving. “That’s a high speed curve – you can see the clear weight shift as they come around the turn,” he noted. “The technique is to control your vehicle through the corner, brake first, and be aware that when you come through the other side there may be an obstruction. You can see how tight this course is.” Roper did however note that while many of the officers would be taking the course in a Dodge Charger, “I’m going to do it in a 350 pickup, so don’t take a picture of that!”

Sergeant Peck is happy to be able to offer the instruction to members of local law enforcement. “This is the first time we’ve had our own instructor who can teach this class,” he said. Last spring, Peck took a 40 hour instructor development class where he learned how to teach adults. In the fall, he furthered his portfolio by becoming qualified to teach the high liability course that was being held, dealing with EVO (Emergency Vehicle Operations).

“What we are trying to do is reduce the officer collisions that happen,” Peck said, as we started around the initial training lap. “That’s one of the biggest causes of officer deaths, along with firearms, so we’re trying to eliminate that. We’re teaching the best way to go around corners where you can still maintain speed, but do it safely. Racing corners are what NASCAR does, but we’re teaching a way to not hio obstacles as they appear in your lane of traffic so you can keep going.” Peck demonstrated the maneuver of driving “outside outside inside,” along with “shuffle steering.” The latter is a way of quickly turning the steering wheel by pulling down from the top of the steering wheel to elim -

COPS On Page 3

Iran War Updates

Negotiations between the United States and Iran have been put on hold after Iran suspended talks in protest of recent Israeli military actions in Lebanon. Iranian officials said Israel’s strikes violated an existing ceasefire agreement and cited the attacks as the reason for stepping away from discussions with Washington. The diplomatic setback comes as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East. In Lebanon, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered strikes on Beirut’s Dahieh district, a southern suburb considered a stronghold of the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group. The attack is part of a broader expansion of Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon after Netanyahu announced plans to intensify Israel’s offensive. President Trump reportedly returned proposed revisions to a draft deal, seeking stronger language regarding Iran’s nuclear commitments and assurances that Iran would help guarantee the reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Asleep on the Job

More than 20 officers assigned to protect Britain’s royal family have been placed on restricted duties following allegations that some officers fell asleep while on duty and left security posts unattended at Windsor Castle. The Metropolitan Police said 23 members of its Royalty and Specialist Protection command have been served with misconduct notices as part of an urgent internal investigation launched last month. Of those officers, 21 have been placed on restricted duties, while the remaining two will not be assigned to royal residences during the investigation. Authorities said the alleged behavior falls well below the standards expected of officers responsible for frontline protective roles. The allegations surfaced after reports claimed officers were found sleeping or abandoning their posts at Windsor Castle, one of King Charles III’s primary residences. Police have also begun examining practices at other royal residences as part of the investigation.

Amazing Rescue in Laos

Five villagers trapped for more than a week inside a flooded cave in central Laos made a dramatic and unexpected escape after an international rescue effort spent days preparing a dangerous underwater extraction. The men had entered the cave searching for gold when rising floodwaters trapped them deep underground. Rescue teams from several countries worked around the clock pumping water from the cave and training the men, none of whom had diving experience, to navigate narrow, submerged passages. After one villager was successfully guided out by divers, rescuers expected the remaining four would require similar high-risk missions. Instead, the continuous pumping operation lowered water levels enough that the men were able to walk and scramble out of the cave on their own, stunning rescuers who were preparing for another dive. Emotional reunions followed as families welcomed the survivors home. However, the operation is not yet over, as two other villagers who reportedly entered the cave earlier remain missing. The incident has also drawn attention to the dangers of illegal gold mining in rural Laos, where rising gold prices continue to encourage people to take significant risks in search of income.

They came out of the gate quick for the Strides for Strength kids race portion of the Fun Run. The adult run was all seriousness.

A new Dodge Charger has been purchased for use by the SSPD, and was taken through its paces at training last week.

Traffic updates: a busy season for construction

Here is a roundup of some of the many local/regional traffic situations for Caribou County:

The Idaho Transportation Department announced that it has completed the first portion of concrete paving on the westbound lanes of U.S. Highway 30 near the I-15 interchange in McCammon. Saturday afternoon, traffic was moved to the recently completed westbound lanes to allow work to start on the eastbound lanes. Traffic will remain one lane in each direction through the work zone.

The project, begun in early March, is replacing the old asphalt surface with concrete to better withstand heavy truck traffic on US-30.

Access to residences and businesses will remain open. However, Old US-91 into downtown McCammon will be closed off, and traffic will be detoured south onto Interstate 15B to the Jensen Road Interchange, Hall Road, and East Price Road. Construction is scheduled to be completed by the end of July.

For up-to-date traffic impacts, check out 511. idaho.gov. For more information on the project, go to itd.idaho.gov/project/mccammon-concrete-resurfacing/.

I-15 Pocatello and Fort Hall

On Sunday, May 31, the Idaho Transportation Department shiftws southbound traffic on Interstate 15 between the Northgate and Fort Hall interchanges into the new lanes built in the median. This shift includes southbound two-week ramp closures at both interchanges to allow crews to tie in the ramps to the new lanes.

During this shift, motorists can expect:

The southbound on-ramp at the Fort Hall Interchange and southbound off-ramp at the Northgate Interchange will close for two weeks beginning the night of May 31.

Fort Hall Interchange users will detour to the South Blackfoot Interchange.

Northgate Interchange users will take I-86 to the Chubbuck Interchange and then use New Day Parkway to detour around the closure.

Speed limits will be reduced.

The shift will allow crews to construct the new southbound lanes and work on the ramps at the Northgate and Fort Hall interchanges.

Construction is anticipated to be completed in 2027. When finished, I-15 will be three lanes in each direction between Northgate and Fort Hall. The project will increase capacity and improve safety on I-15 to serve Southeast Idaho’s growing transportation volumes for years to come.

The safety of motorists and construction crews is ITD’s top priority during construction. When driving through the work zone, please stay alert, follow work zone signage and drive the posted speed limit.

To sign up for project updates:

Visit the project website: itdprojects.idaho.gov/ pages/i15northgatetoblackfoot

Soda Springs Highway 30

Construction updates are being requested from ITD, but here is what has been communicated: construction from the city limits west of town to the Main Street intersection will be completed for utilities before the eastern side of the highway is begun. Water lines are being completed in that stretch soon, after which sewer line work will begin.

The railroad crossing on Main street has been closed since the weekend, and is anticipated to be completed by the end of this week, which will allow normal traffic to resume in the north/south direction. The project involves boring under the tracks, but was delayed by difficulty with some elements of the substrate.

Parade Route

As a result of construction, the parade route for the Fourth of July parade will be different this year, and in a rather substantial way. A map released by the Rotary club is included here for reference, with more detailed reporting to follow as the parade nears.

More updates as they are made available.

County Commission Report 5/25

Coin Toss

The most anticipated event of the morning was the coin toss that had been scheduled to fulfill state code with the regard to the resolution of the tie between Bancroft’s George Hulse and Soda Springs’ Tracy Davis. The two candidates had each received the same number of voters in the recent election, edging out serving County Commissioner from the district Marty McCullough.

From the time the tie was officially announced following the election, a number of questions were asked about the protocol for resolving it. Many people felt that an automatic recount or runoff election would be implemented. Following discussions with the Idaho Secretary of State’s Office, however, it was determined that neither of those two procedures was correct under state law. For county-level primary election ties in municipalities the size of Caribou County, a coin toss is the method listed in the state code.

Recounts are still possible, within 20 days of the coin flip, though neither candidate suggested that they were interested in having one performed, and the clerk’s office has not received any subsequent word on the matter since last Tuesday.

The coin that was selected was a Veterans coin. In order to be as random as possible, Chairman Mark Mathews selected a number from 1 to 50, and the candidates selected their own number. Even in this aspect of the contest the two were evenly matched, as their numbers ended up being within one digit of each other. Davis, however was closer, and chose to call the coin “Tails” during the flip.

Despite attempts to select several other people for the flip, various factors resulted in County Clerk Jill Stoor being the one to perform the delicate operation, resulting in a “Heads” outcome, and therefore the selection of George Hulse for the seat.

Amazingly, a coin toss was also used to resolve a precinct level tie in Jerome on the same day.

During the process, there was a great deal of discussion about the seeming “ridiculousness” of the process, and remedies for improving it. The code will require a legislative process to be altered, and it remains to be seen whether representatives from Caribou County, Jerome County, or elsewhere in the state are truly interested in pursuing such as solution.

Davis congratulated Hulse after the coin flip, and the process was conducted in an appropriately serious way, despite its unusual nature.

Hulse will be running for the seat unopposed in November. It was confirmed by the clerk’s office that code does not allow for an Independent candidate or write-in the run in the general election if they did not file paperwork to run for the primary election.

Kevin McLain – road and bridge McLain reported that summer help is at work on projects going on around the county.

Dwight Lloyd

Updated the commission on summer help for the Weed department. A discussion of fund disbursement for the dyers woad program was had, with regard to the easiest way for the county to make payments available to Lloyd for dispersal to participants.

Mike Ackerman –City of Bancroft

Representing the City of Bancroft, Ackerman spoke to the commissioners about the potential for entering into a contract to obtain the services of the county building inspector.

He would like to be able to communicate to the Bancroft council whether the same arrangement would be possible.

Ackerman noted that the city was in need of instructions as to the process for utilizing the services of the inspector.

Rowdy Larkins, who would be serving as the inspector if approved, did not feel that it would create a lot more work for him to also serve in

that capacity, as the number of inspections required on an annual basis in Bancroft should not likely be overly burdensome. That process will move forward as discussed.

Jill Stoor

Mayor Gritton called to inform the commissioners that construction on Main Street will be undertaken in front of the senior center, pertaining to the train tracks which need to be bored under during the coming week, a timeline which is subject to the calendar of railroad inspectors.

Clerk Stoor reported that there have been some issues with time cards. Mailing addresses and passwords need to be reset, as some passwords have been shared in ways that complicate the system. Although it can be easier and quicker to share the tasks, Clerk Stoor emphasized that employees needed to enter their own times into the system.

Supervisors and managers are not authorized to put in changes into the system about timecards, she clarified.

The Parade Route for the Fourth of July was discussed. Kelly Park is the alternate location to the staging areas from previous years.

CMC

Kent Loosle and Dillon Liechty representing Caribou Medical Center spoke to the commissioners to provide quarterly updates. Monday, July 13 at 6:00 p.m. is the date that has been set for the opening of the Grace clinic. The clinic will expand medical care to residents of the east side of the valley in a more convenient location.

Brett Smith will be at the clinic fulltime. Dr. Housley will also move his practice down to the building. On Fridays, Preston Christensen will be in Grace on Friday, and Kellan Hansen will also be in Grace on Friday.

There will be some renovations to the hospital coming up as well, and construction plans and updates were discussed.

Charity Stacks – SICOG Stacks spoke to the commission-

ers by way of introduction. She explained some of the things that SICOG (Southeast Idaho Council of Governments) does to help improve local communities.

One of the current projects involves a fuels reduction project in the Bailey Creek area, which involves a grant to mitigate the potential for wildfire in areas where wild and residential areas abut one another. Given the predicted high fire danger over the course of the coming year, anything that can help lower the potential for destruction is well worth the effort.

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Helen Barker spoke to the commissioners about the lawncare contract which covers the county’s parks.

Center for New Hope South Representatives from the Center for New Hope South in Soda Springs spoke to the commissioners about funding for the upcoming budget cycle.

As a result of funding for recovery programs being dramatically reduced, they requested up to an additional $32K to cover wages and expenses for the center in order to attempt to keep it operating.

“We believe in this community that we invest in,” Melissa Gallegos stated. She explained that due to funding and other issues that have affected state and federal budgets, the Center is facing significant financial issues in order to remain open. The commissioners noted that the pricetag for the needs was considerable, and potentially outside of what could be arranged for.

The commissioners offered $7,500 as in the past, plus $15K (to make $22,500) for the year in this emergency situation, but expressed doubts about the longterm viability of such an arrangement.

The importance of the center was noted.

Eric Hobson EMS Hobson spoke to the commissioners about the need to raise rates for services provided by the department, and will be looked into.

Dinosaurs headline summer reading

Dinosaurs lived for millions of years, and they lived millions of years ago. They have also been popular with kids for about the same amount of time. This summer, dinosaurs are the focus of the summer reading programs across the state, with the slogan “Unearth the Story” chosen for the event.

Soda Springs Public Library, along with Itafos, the David B. Jones Foundation and the Idaho Museum of Natural History, are excited to bring the beloved summer reading program back to town, free of charge to all those from birth to 11 years old who are interested in reading and learning more about the world around them.

A Story Walk at City Park from 11 was held last Wednesday, May 27.

As part of the event, readers were given the opportunity to adopt their own dinosaurs and pledge to take care of it throughout the summer reading program.

The adoption was a companion to the visit from the Idaho Museum of Natural History’s Mobile Museum, which was parked on site to give tours and provide information.

Museum educator Pam Pascali welcomed young dino-learners to her mobile learning center to find out more about fossils, dinosaur skeletons, hand on activities and real pieces of Idaho’s ancient past.

She came equipped with a scale replica of a skeleton of Idaho’s state dinosaur, the Oryctodromeus. The dino is a dog-sized burrowing herbivore, whose name means “digging runner.”

The oryctodromeus lived almost 100 million year during the Cretaceous period. “People have been loving seeing this!” Pascali said.

Starting this weekPrograms will be run Tuesday OR Wednesday (same program on both days) through the month of June at 10:30 a.m. Each ses-

sion lasts about an hour.

There is always something for every child to enjoy – from a treasure trove of stories, to exciting crafts, fun prizes, and engaging activities at each session.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Themes for the weekly evets are as follows:

June 2 and 3: Dinolympics

June 9 and 10: Diggin’ for Dinos

June 16 and 17: Jurassic Springs

June 23 and 24: Jurassic Jam Slip n Slide Teen Summer Reading will also be taking place. According to the library, “the teen summer reading program is mostly passive, with challenges put out weekly for opportunities to earn

Soda Springs City Council Report 5/20

Rebecca Fryar – SSHS, FCCLA, Speech and Debate

Students representatives from the FCCLA spoke to the council with regard to sponsoring students’ trip to Nationals in Orlando, FL. FCCLA stands for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. There are 6 students and 3 advisors—the students requested funds to support their trip. The cost was estimated to be $2000/student.

Council President Hart noted that in the past they have donated money to the group, rather than an individual. Hart asked about an exchange. The FCCLA has already signed up to do some volunteer work in preparation and surrounding the 4th of July, such as Fire Truck cleaning, and manning booths, as well as other types of work. The city will donate $300 for the truck waxing, and $900-$1000 for the 4th booths. The Lions Club and the County have donated already.

President Hart motioned that in addition to that, the city contributed $1300 plus $1200 for work, for a total of $2500. Passed.

A second presentation by Sierra Muir on behalf of Speech and Debate program was given as well. She has been travelling to compete with Highland HS, and would like additional funds for the Nationals, which are in Virginia. The arrangement was similar to that which was established with the FCCLA, a $500 donation.

Councilman Carpenter stated “I know it’s kind of scary getting up in front of us, but we’re glad you did.”

Cindy Erickson and Amanda Larsen

The two spoke to the council about a planned Arts Council, and art projects around the community. Erickson was part of the original painting project for the wall in the library, and she has heard from a number of artists in the community who would like to be involved with public art work.

“The murals need to be beautiful and professional,” she said. Amanda Larsen, along with Cindy and Diane Olsen, “would love to paint that wall, if we can work it out with the county.”

The wall in question is the retaining wall on the west side of the City Park, to the rear of the courthouse building. The wall was painted a number of years ago, but the paint has chiped and faded, and the idea is to put a new design that celebrates America 250. Cattle and elk were requested as part of the

design by the county.

Cindy Erickson has worked on murals before, and she imagines it looking like a professional national park retro image.

The group will need to do power washing, some concrete repair, and priming.

They are going to propose next meeting that locals jump in on the project. Nona McCurdy, Andy Berg, and others have expressed interest in the project. “We are willing to put in the time. It will be hundreds of hours of work,” Erickson said. “We are just giving you a heads up that many artists would love to jump in and do a great art installation.”

There will be seven panels or so, when it’s all said and done.

Commissioner Bryce Somsen, who was in attendance, officially extended the green light to go ahead and get started.

President Hart raised the issue of the retaining wall, and how people would end up from the geyser to the wall in question.

Councilman Carpenter has spoken about the idea of Main Street as an Art Walk. Councilman Carpenter stated that the the park would be a great starting point. The idea would be to lead people down there.

Department Reports

Dan Squires

2nd S is going well. Main line is in. Services in a few days. ITD is focusing on utilities, one block at a time.

The water line on Main st. needs to be finished, so the water pressure on the south side of town is a bit reduced as a result. The Main street work should take at least a week. The work will continue on both places at the same time.

“We’re making progress, that’s what matters,”

Watch Party for Tabernacle Choir

Local “Watch Party” will be held June 26, 2026

The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square will return to the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, California, on June 26, 2026, for a special concert marking 100 years since the Choir’s first performance at the venue in July 1926.

To commemorate the performance, the Choir, is welcoming six (6) guest artist to its stage – Donny Osmond, David Foster, Katharine McPhee, Stephanie J. Block, Sebastian Arcelus, and The Bonner Family. Locally, all of Caribou County is invited to participate in the gathering from 5:00pm to 9:00pm at the Gem Valley Performing Arts Center, 704 South Main, Grace, Idaho.

Come enjoy an evening of -- Ac-

tivities, Food, Music and Community.

The evening schedule on June 26, 2026, will be:

• 5:00pm to 7:00pm Food and Activities (No Charge)

• 7:00pm to 9:00pm “Songs of Hope” Concert (No Charge)

The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square and its Guest Artists broadcast to the Gem Valley Performing Arts Center.

The entire evening is sponsored by -- the Grace and Soda Springs Idaho Stakes of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bring the whole family. Everyone is welcome.

tickets, which are your chance to enter to win one of the fabulous prizes purchased for the program by Itafos of Soda Springs.”

The program works as follows: beginning on June 1, every Monday a new challenge or activity will be released. These challenges can be completed at the library or taken home and later returned for a ticket. If participants miss a week or two, librarians will be happy to get them caught up. In person events will also give out tickets, and include:

June 17, 6:00 p.m.: Movie Night –Jurassic Park

June 15, 6:00 p.m.: Dino Crafts August 19, 6:00 p.m.: Wrap up and Prizes party.

Mayor Gritton said. The leak under the tracks is taken care of.

The shipping container for storing the ice rink has been installed at the park.

CJ Golightly

The seatbelt grant is going on right now, Chief Golightly noted. He urged the public to be aware and slow down.

A new vehicle from ISP, a Dodge Charger, has been received. The city will try to utilize it to take away wear away from leased vehicles with high mileage.

May 27-29 will be emergency operations vehicle training.

The laws changed recently, so this might be the last time they have to do a tow sale. Law enforcement tows go to the tow company, who gets it to ITD who pays for it. This will alleviate the registered mail and other costs involved.

Gem Grant Award

Clerk Haderlie and Mayor Gritton explained the feasibility study grant that was successfully awarded. It is a matching grant, and the city may be obligated to contribute up to $9K. The total sum is $36K on 4CASI, $9 for Soda.

Group for Fall Festival

Last year, Recreation ran the Fall Festival, and they need to find a group that can take it over. An effort is underway to find the right people to do it.

Budget Review

President Hart led a review the history of Tax Levies in the municipality.

Rate increases for utilities. MR&E requested a 3.5% increase in waste disposal fees. Last year was a 2% increase. Mayor Gritton asked MR&E what their largest increased expenses were. Shipping on truck parts, fuel, employee costs with raises were mentioned. “We think if we can retain them it’s better for us and for everybody. We have to compete with the mines.”

The increase would essentially work out to around a dollar a month.

“We’re fortunate we have local people who care about our community and are not gouging us,” the city council noted.

Culpepper & Merriweather Circus Coming to Soda Springs June 25

Thanks to the sponsorship of the Soda Springs Rotary Club, the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus will return to Soda Springs on Thursday, June 25, 2026, bringing its traditional Big Top experience to Kelly Park. Performances are scheduled for 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., offering local families an opportunity to enjoy one of America’s longest-running traveling circus productions. Now in its 41st year, the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus has built a reputation for providing quality family entertainment in communities across the country. The authentic one-ring circus has been featured in productions including A&E’s Under the Big Top , Nick News: On the Road with Circus Kids , and OETA’s Big Top Town . This year’s all-new 2026 show features a lineup of performers that includes big cats presented by Trey Key, aerialist Simone on the trapeze, the Perez Daredevil Duo performing on the tightrope and Wheel of Destiny, the high-energy Macias family hand and foot juggling act, Miss Gianna and her performing canines, and circus clown Leo Acton.

Circus Day Schedule:

9:30 a.m. the raising of the Big Top, a unique opportunity for the public to watch the circus tent go up and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the grounds. Visitors can learn about life on the road with the circus and the care provided to the animals. The tent raising and tour are available only on the first day of the circus event.

4 p.m. the midway opens, along with additional family activities . Guests can enjoy pony rides, a moon

bounce, giant slide, face painting, concessions, and other attractions before the main performances.

5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Circus Performance. Advance tickets are available through the City of Soda Springs offices and are priced at $14 for adults and $8 for children ages 2-12 and seniors age 65 and older. Organizers note that purchasing tickets in advance helps support the local sponsor and returns more money to the community. Tickets purchased at the circus grounds on event day will be $17 for adults and $10 for children and seniors. The box office will open one hour before each performance.

For additional information about the circus, tickets, or the 2026 tour, visit cmcircus.com, follow Culpepper & Merriweather Circus on Facebook or Instagram (@cmcircus), email cmcircus@gmail.com, or call 580-326-8833.

4-H Summer buzzes into Grace

Summer may still not have technically started, but its well underway for 4-H members in Caribou County.

A group of students met on Monday morning to learn about apiary science, or bees, to you and I. New AmeriCorps summer volunteer Jaycee Smith from Grace prepared the lesson as part of her summer commitment to 4-H. She will be working with the Extension Office on projects throughout the summer, primarily on Tuesdays through Fridays.

For this first lesson, she researched bees - how they do what they do, and what kinds of things bees make possible. “We looked at the kinds of things we wouldn’t have if it weren’t for bees,” Smith said.

The classes also started the day with ice cream and honey, and worked on educational crafts during the later morning.

Classes will be running throughout the summer.

Upcoming June 4-H events are as follows:

June 4 – Plant ID Hike “Discover Nature’s beauty with us. Join our Plant ID hike for a unique opportunity to explore nature, learn different plant identifications and have an unforgettable adventure.

Meet at the Caribou Event Center at 9am. Lunch will be provided. The event is free, thanks to Nutrien. No Cloverbuds. Wear good shoes that can get dirty!”

June 8-10 – 4-H Club Alpine

June 11 – Air Tic Tac Toe 10:30, Origami 1:30

June 15 – Rifle 10am; Shotgun 3pm

June 16 – Jewelry stamp class 10am; Mad scientist in Soda 10am; Engraving Fathers Day in Soda 1pm

June 17 – Rifle 10am; Shotgun 3pm

June 18 – Rifle 10am

June 19 – Rifle 10am; Sewing 10am; Paper Airplane 12pm; Shotgun 3pm

June 22 – Fish Camp; Rifle 10am; Shotgun 3pm

June 23-24 – Fish Camp

June 24 – Rifle 10am; Shotgun 3pm

June 25 – Crepes 10:30am

June 26 - Rifle 10am; Sewing 10am; Shotgun 3pm

June 29 – Archery 8:30am; Geology Camp; Cloverbuds Pop Bottle

Flowers10:30am

June 30 – Archery 8:30am

Facebook Cariboufourh or call 208547-3205 for more information about these or other events offered by the University of Idaho Extension Office.

“Downwinder” (RECA) act expanded; deadline in 2027

Representatives from the offices of Representative Mike Simpson, Senator Crapo, and Senator Jim Risch have been visiting southeast Idaho to make sure that as many constituents as possible are aware of changes to a program that may potential be worth $100,000 to surviving family members of those killed by certain kinds of cancer who lived in Idaho, Utah, or Wyoming during the nuclear testing that occurred in the 1951-1962 time period.

As they explained, the federal government has expanded the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) to include Idaho residents who may have been exposed to radioactive fallout from Cold War-era nuclear weapons testing.

For decades, many Idaho “downwinders” were excluded from the program, but legislation enacted in 2025 through the efforts of Idaho’s congressional delegation (especially the office of Senator Crapo) added the entire state of Idaho to the list of eligible areas. Under the expanded program, qualifying individuals—or their surviving family members—may receive a tax-free payment of $100,000 if they developed certain cancers linked to radiation exposure and can show they lived in Idaho during the covered period between 1951 and 1962. The law also allows spouses, children, and grandchildren to file claims on behalf of deceased relatives who would have qualified. Claims must generally be filed by December 31, 2027 , and applicants must provide documentation of both residency and a covered medical condition.

Supporters of the expansion say it provides long-overdue recognition and compensation for Idaho families who may have suffered health effects from radioactive fallout generated by nuclear testing in the American West during the 1950s and early 1960s.

The story of Idaho’s downwinders compensation program stretches back more than three decades. Congress first passed the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) in 1990 as a no-fault program to compensate people who developed certain cancers and other serious illnesses after exposure to radiation from U.S. nuclear weapons testing and uranium industry activities during the Cold War. The law origi -

nally covered only specific counties in Utah, Nevada, and Arizona for “downwinders,” while Idaho residents were excluded despite longstanding concerns that radioactive fallout from atmospheric nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site affected communities across the state. Congress expanded RECA in 2000, but Idaho still remained outside the covered area.

For years, Idaho lawmakers, advocacy groups, and affected families pushed for inclusion, arguing that fallout patterns did not stop at state lines. Their efforts culminated in 2025 when Congress reauthorized and significantly expanded RECA through legislation signed on July 4, 2025. The expansion added the entire state of Idaho as an eligible downwinder area, reopened the claims process after the program had expired in 2024, and extended the deadline for filing claims until December 31, 2027

The areas covered now are the entire states of Idaho, Utah, and New Mexico, with certain counties in Arizona and Nevada.

The 2025 amendments also increased compensation for qualifying downwinders from $50,000 to $100,000 , matching the amount available to uranium workers. The revised law allows surviving spouses, children, grandchildren, and other eligible heirs to file claims on behalf of deceased family members who would have qualified. Applicants generally must show they lived in Idaho during the covered fallout period—primarily 19511962—and were diagnosed with a qualifying cancer or other covered disease.

A workshop will be held in Pocatello at the Pocatello City Hall chambers on June 22 and 23 from 9-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. to explain the program and provide free filing assistance for those who believe a member of their family may qualify. The times are arranged specifically according to the first letter of the last name of the affected individual, as follows: June 22 - 9-11am: A-F, 1-3pm: G-L; June 23 – 9-11am: M-S; 1-3pm: T-Z. More information can be found by visiting www.justice.gov/civil/ reca or by contacting the offices of any of Idaho’s congressional elected officials.

North Gem Students Enjoy Memorable Lagoon Trip Thanks to ITAFOS Grant

North Gem School would like to extend a sincere thank-you to ITAFOS for its generous grant and donation that made our recent trip to Lagoon possible. Without their support, this opportunity would not have been available to our students.

The trip was filled with excitement, laughter, and unforgettable experiences, as students enjoyed the rides, attractions, and time spent together outside the classroom. It was a wonderful day that allowed students to create lasting memories with their friends and teachers. Opportunities like these help strengthen friendships, build school spirit, and provide experiences that students will remember for years to come.

We truly appreciate ITAFOS’S continued commitment to supporting students and making experiences like this possible for our school. Their generosity and commitment to our students helped make this special day a tremendous success.

We would also like to express our appreciation to Teton Stage Lines of Blackfoot for providing safe and reliable transportation. Their friendly drivers, professional service, and dependable transportation helped make the trip run smoothly from start to finish.

Thank you, ITAFOS for investing in our students and helping create a day full of fun, learning, and lifelong memories.

AmeriCorps volunteer Jaycee Smith leads a class on bees at the Extension Office in Grace.

A simple plan…

BY ALLISON ELIASON

Having spent my whole life around cows, it takes a lot for one to make me nervous. I’ve seen my share of cows that have a big bluff, but little fight. They throw some dirt, put their head up in the air, and beller, but that’s all they do. This spring however, I’ve had more than enough opportunities to learn the line between all bluff and all fight.

Let’s back up for context. My husband and I had an opportunity fall in our collective lap that allowed us to buy a few cows of our own. With the busy spring work, I knew the feeding, checking, and tagging would likely fall on my chore list, something I was actually excited about. I figured the kids could pile on the 4-wheeler with me so we could trail through the cows, count and tag the newborns, then put a bale in the feeder each day.

and taking them to summer pasture, a chance to see a whole new side of them. A side I didn’t like at all.

More than once we had to take a deep breath and regroup when the handful of pairs we were bringing into the corral scattered like chickens with a fox in the coop. As the weeks wore on, we had to change tactics just to get the cows in the corral and still live to tell about it.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

The first of our ornery cows was #41. We knew from day one she was full of more than bluff. Her calf had slipped through the wire fence, a blessing in disguise. I opted to tag the calf first before pushing it through, and I was glad I did because the fence was the only thing standing between me and a very unpleasant introduction.

was a five-letter word that five-letter cow didn’t know. Unfortunately, she wasn’t even the worst of them. A week later we went to move another group of cows, and had an encounter with one that was lucky we still turned right to pasture instead of left to the butcher shop. I had my suspicions early on about #34, but had excused her high-headed chase after a long haul from Montana and a trip through the chute to be branded. She was loud and snorty tagging her calf, but not the worst of the bunch.

It was all a pretty simple plan. Which should have been my first warning.

I learned very quickly that these cows had what I can only describe in a positive way as strong mothering instincts. Red Angus are known for their maternal traits. Some of them are apparently overachievers, a fact I learned firsthand as I sat holding a calf while its mother came sprinting at me, bellowing for the whole herd to hear.

By JoAnn Derson

When it was her turn to be sorted, #41 ducked and dodged us more times than I could count. And then she got mad, a moment I distinctly remember because she turned straight for my son on his motorbike with every intention of causing damage. My momma bear instincts kicked in and all rational decision-making left the building. Let’s just say we both won that fight—she didn’t end up in the corral, but I got in enough good licks to feel vindicated. The 4-wheeler may tell the story differently.

#34 was on my keep-an-eye-on-her list, but thirty seconds into the day she graduated to the don’t-turn-your-backon-her list. She walked into the corral pleasant as could be, then promptly turned to run back out the gate, smashing the motorbike that attempted to block her way in the process. Since we don’t back down from a fight, we “convinced” her back into the corral where the fight continued. It might have taken an hour to get her loaded, perched on the fence the whole time, but we won in the end. I’m still not convinced the butcher shop wasn’t the better option.

• “Clean and save takeout food containers rather than purchasing commercial plastic containers. They are all the same basically, and you will not be at a loss if you need to throw one away, leave it behind or send leftovers home with a guest.” — M.W. in Nevada

• To preserve your battery life on your smartphone, remember to close out applications that you are not using. Shut down and restart your phone from time to time as well.

• “Got too many coffee cups? Add potting soil and a small flower to give as gifts to brighten someone’s day!” — B. in North Carolina

• In a pinch, you can use liquid correction fluid to cover up nail holes in a white wall. Dot and smudge as it dries.

I’ll admit the first few times those momma cows got loud and in my face, my heart thumped a few extra beats. Regardless of the adrenaline surge, I got my work done quickly and unscathed. I might have even patted myself on the back on a few of the rowdier, nose-to-nose cows. And the silver lining, those moments helped me form a very informed opinion of which cows were worth keeping and which were definitely on the cull list.

With a handful of calves on the ground, we began loading them up

#41 must have sensed we meant business when we showed up on horseback with ropes in hand, because she trotted right into the corral without a fuss. We thought maybe we had turned the corner. Turns out she was just lulling us into a false sense of security, because when it came time to load her in the trailer she reminded us of her deep-seated hatred for us. After just a few steps into the pen, that darn cow threw her head in the air and had us hopping the fence like a jackrabbit with a pack of cow dogs on it. Obviously we lived to tell the tale—a tale highlighted by the fact that bluff

BRAIN TEASERS

The following day we had a few of the last heifers to run through the chute, and they too thought we’d enjoy scaling the fence. I don’t know if there was a sign on our backs that said “Try me!” or what, but apparently word had spread through the herd. In a small moment of fatigue, I might have shouted, “I’m so tired of being chased at!”

There are only a few left to turn out, and my hopes are high that the worst is over. If nothing else after a spring spent climbing fences, dodging charging cows, and wondering if there was a bounty on my head, I’ve come to a conclusion: some cows are all bluff, some cows are all fight, and fences exist for a reason.

• “After you clip the coupons you want to keep from your Sunday paper inserts, pass them along to your neighbors. They may use different products and so may want your coupons!” — I.L. in Georgia

• Want to eat your nine servings of fruits and veggies a day? Keep fresh fruit out and in view to increase the amount you eat. Cut and otherwise prepare vegetables and store them front and center in your refrigerator. Plan your meals around the vegetables instead of the protein!

Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 1800 Pembrook Dr., Suite 300, Orlando, FL 32810. © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.

BY GRAMMA DOT

Grandparents Only

Not recommended for parents or kids...

Our son, Brandon, lives in St. George and we like to visit. The car cannot head south without Hadley and Elle on board, and this time Grandma Red decided to join us. For Christmas each year, Santa delivers some Tuacahn tickets for the week school is out, and Bran’s outdoor pool is open by then so as soon as the graves are decorated, we are on the road.

An added bonus this year, was baby Teagan, Taya and Brandt’s new little one, who we got to meet on our way down. This was the highlight of the trip for Grandma Red. In her book there is nothing like a brand-new baby to snuggle. That stop was an A+.

Next on the agenda was to get cross-stitch kits for the girls to limit screen time as we traveled. We stopped at a Michael’s, got the kits and were back on the road in a flash. Hadley lost her needle before we got to Fillmore. So now we had a rogue needle somewhere in the back seat and both girls were on the iPad. That’s not all bad, the trip was quiet.

We got to St. George, saw some plays, hung out at the pool and played Consecutive SkyJo, which is an adaptation of SkyJo with Evanson House Rules. We also went to Olive Garden one afternoon because as far as the girls are concerned there is nothing like a noodle. Our waiter was particularly good…not too over the top but took good care of us…until the very end. Then, Elle asked as we were leaving, “Where are the mints?” I

didn’t realize she was such a fan. I told her we would survive, but as we headed for the door Chris, the waiter, appeared. Elle looked at me like do something. So, I said, “Chris, these girls really need a mint.” His response was quick, “Wait right here.” We did. He returned in a few seconds with more mints than Elle could carry in her two hands. You couldn’t wipe the grin off her face. The girls counted when we got to the car…24 mints! That made the whole trip a success…until the very end.

On the way home, Elle lost her needle. Now, two rogue needles in the back seat. The iPad became a point of conflict…one girl wanted it on all the time, the other was trying to limit screen time. We hit construction and spent 45 minutes going two miles. When we stopped for lunch, we went into Panda to get our food-to-go and left Grandma Red in the truck. Not sure how it happened but the truck alarm went off while we were inside. We got back to the truck quickly, but Grandma was a little rattled. We finally pulled into Malad about 4:00pm, unloaded Grandma, Brett picked up the girls, and Brent and I settled in for a quiet evening. Quiet evenings are becoming the definition of a Good Life. Does that mean I’m old?

Dotty Evanson (or Grandma Dot, if you'd rather) has been a writer, teacher, school administrator, mom, and grandma in Southeast Idaho ever since those positions opened up.  While her experiences aren't universal, they are likely familiar to more people than not.

NEWS OF RECORD

CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF

John Thomas Andrus, Grace, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00

Alexies Ann Leonard, Pocatello, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Zixin Liu, Troy, stop and yield sign violation, $33.50, costs $56.50; speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Kayson Jade Lucio, Grace, operate vehicle when unsafe or improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $56.50; operate vehicle when unsafe or improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $56.50

Danielle Mathews, North Logan, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Diana Bea Miller, Idaho Falls, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00

Keval S Parmar, Austin, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Rose Cassandra Isabelle Rich, Summer, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Meita Roston, Bastrop, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Yosefyitzchok Roston, Bastrop, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00

Alek Lenwood Sparrold, Logan, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Kaylee Ruth Sullivan, South Jordan, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

SODA SPRINGS POLICE

Nadia F Anderson, Soda Springs, accumulation of litter prohibited, $100.00, costs $56.50; unlawful storage of motor vehicles/ATVs/Snowmobiles/motorcycles/trailers/RVs, $100.00, costs $56.50

Rochelle C Bradfield, Salt Lake City, fail to reduce speed or change lane upon approach of stationary emergency/police vehicle, $33.50, costs $56.50

Jordan Allen Handy, Inkom, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Leonardo J Medina Vargas, Bountiful, speeding, $33.50, cost $56.50

Johathan Peralta Hermosillo, Denver, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00

Yik Haw Teoh, Houston, speeding, $33.50, cost $56.50

Josue Eduardo Velazquez Yanez, Wenatchee, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

IDAHO STATE POLICE

BIRTHDAYS

Jerry Steffensen, June 3

Jamie Checketts, June 4

LaNae Robinson, June 4

River Jorgensen, June 8

Jane Christensen, June 10

Clair Anderson, June 11

Jerry Stoor, June 12

Darell Farnes, June 12

Chad Allred, June 15

Debbie Peck, June 15

Leslie Chamberlain, June 16

Diane Elsmore, June 18

Vicki Philips, June 18

Pat Reidle, June 19

June Mason, June 20

Nancy Smith, June 20

Jay Allred, June 21

Renee Christensen, June 21

Jalene Somsen, June 22

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

ON THIS DAY

1783 Joseph and Jacques Montgolfier make the first public hot-air balloon flight (unmanned), covering 2 km and lasting 10 minutes with an estimated altitude of 1,6002,000 m

1876 Transcontinental Express arrives in San Francisco, California, via the First Transcontinental Railroad only 83 hours and 39 minutes after having left New York City

1896 Henry Forde drives his first Ford through the streets of Detroit

1912 State of Massachusetts passes first US minimum wage law

1919 US Congress passes the Women's Suffrage Bill, the 19th Amendment

1934 Dr. Frederick Banting is knighted for the co-discovery of insulin which revolutionized the treatment of diabetes and saved countless lives

1969 22-year-old man sneaks into wheel pod of a jet parked in Havana and survives 9-hour flight to Spain despite thin oxygen levels at 29,000 ft

1973 Patent for the ATM is granted to Don Wetzel, Tom Barnes and George Chastain

1975 Oldest animal fossils in US discovered in North Carolina

1984 Columbia Records releases Bruce Springsteen's seventh studio album "Born in the USA", his biggest commercial success that topped the charts in 11 countries and sold over 30 million copies worldwide

1990 Dr. Jack Kevorkian assists an Oregon woman to commit suicide, beginning a national debate over the right to die

2025 Google signs agreement with Chile to build the first submarine fiber-optic cable connecting South America and Australia

Julie Crabtree, Herriman, operate vehicle when unsafe or improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $56.50; operate vehicle when unsafe or improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $56.50

Kelly Fred Erickson, Thayne, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Hector Noe Gonzalez, Norwalk, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Austin S Hensley Garcia, American Falls, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50

Yuan Hu, San Francisco, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Fernando Huerta, Hooper, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Joseph Deloy Hunsaker, Smithfield, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Dallen David Mill, Colorado Springs, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Zhang Y Shenyang, NA, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Alan Kent Skinner, Georgetown, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50

Morgan Skylar Two Bulls, Oglala,

speeding, 433.50, costs $56.50

MAGISTRATE COURT

Corby Earl Albert, NA, possession of a controlled substance with the intent to deliver, costs $385.50, 5 years determinate time, 3 years indeterminate time, 305 days credit time served – Agency: CCSO

Lustein Perez-Ballinas, NA, possession of controlled substance, $700.00, costs 1,682.50, 2 years determinate time, 3 years indeterminate time, 66 days credit time served, penitentiary suspension: yes, 5 years felony probation – Agency: CCSO

Amanda Jean Smith, Soda Springs, burglary, $1,000.00, costs $458.50, 16 days jail, 3 years determinate time, 3 years indeterminate time, 8 days credit time served, 5 years felony probation –Agency: CCSO

Miles Hiroki Teranishi, Tustin, unlawful to purchase, consume or possess alcoholic beverage under 21 years of age, $300.00, costs $187.50; speeding, $33.50, costs $%6.50– Agency: SSPD

LOOKING BACK AT PAGES FROM THE PAST

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

2021

The Rotary Club has selected Tom Phelps of Soda Springs to be the Grand Marshal of this year’s Independence Day parade.

Tom was born and raised in Fillmore, a “small sleepy town” in Utah that was once that state’s capital.

At the end of World War II Tom would travel to Soda Springs as part of his first job since honorable discharge from the Navy. It was here he met May Call waiting tables at a local restaurant. For three years, from 1945 to 1947, he visited the community regularly, always working in a social visit with Ms. Call.

Tom and Mary married on Oct. 21, 1947, and in 1948 started construction on the house in Soda Springs where they would spend the next 63 years together and where Tom lives today.

When he first moved to Soda Springs, Tom worked as a mechanic at the Ford garage. When the Central Farmers Fertilizer started construction of a plant in Georgetown, Tom hired on for what would become a long career in the phosphate industry.

He followed the business as it moved operations up to Conda in Caribou County, working there for a succession of owners, eventually becoming maintenance supervisor for Agrium Conda Phosphate (now Itafos), the position from which he eventually retired.

Tom and May raised four children in Soda Springs: Tom K., Terrill L., Lani and Debbie.

“Soda Springs was a good community for raising kids,” Tom observes. “All four of them grew up here, went to school here, and have become successful in their own right.”

Many in Soda Springs have known Tom over the years for his dedication to the community’s veterans. Tom himself is one of Southeast Idaho’s last remaining World War II veterans. He was a radioman with the Air Support Communication Team of the Fifth Amphibious Force, South Pacific Theater, and as such was part of the Allied effort to reclaim the Gilbert Islands.

He fought in the Battle of Tarawa in November of 1943 as part of Operation Galvanic. Nearly 6,400 Japanese, Koreans, and Americans died in the fighting, mostly on and around the small island of Betio, in the extreme southwest of Tarawa Atoll. The Battle of Tarawa was the first American offensive in the critical central Pacific region.

Tom was eventually awarded five Naval battle stars for his service during World War II. One for the Battle of Tarawa, and additional stars for his service in battles for the Solomon Islands, Marshall Islands, Mariana Islands, and the Philippines.

Once back in the states, Tom has never forgotten his obligation to those who defend America, and he early on became involved in the American Legion. As Adjutant of the local post for over a decade, he was the unit’s personnel officer, immediate contact for post inquiries, and kept membership records and minutes.

The Legion also offers its services to accord full military honors at funeral services, including the playing of taps and the folding and presentation of the American flag to the next of kin. Tom, who has participated in countless such ceremonies, affirms that “it has been my honor to participate in giving veterans the send-off they deserve.”

On Friday, June 4, at about 7:37 p.m., the Caribou County Sheriff’s Office received a report of an intoxicated driver on the Kiewit’s Mine haul road northeast of Soda Springs. The suspect driver was causing a dangerous situation in the active mining area and to mine personnel. The driver was reported to possibly be carrying a firearm on her person, Caribou County Sheriff Adam Mabey said Monday.

Deputy Josh Owens arrived in the area and located the suspect at about 8:25 p.m. The driver refused to pull over for the deputies’ emergency lights and the deputy initiated a pursuit of the suspect. The suspect then continued to attempt to elude the deputies for the next hour.

Officer attempted to deflate the suspect’s vehicle tires with “spikes” and were partially successful.

The right front tire of the suspect’s vehicle was deflated with the use of the spike strips.

The suspects had attempted to drive into a sheriff’s vehicle and had been damaging mine property during the incident and attempts to stop her.

The suspect continued to attempt to elude the law enforcement until the suspect’s vehicle was “pitted,” a technique used by law enforcement to physically end a pursuit with the use of law enforcement officer vehicles, Sheriff Mabey said. The pit maneuver was successful, but the suspect regained control of her vehicle and rammed a Soda Springs Police vehicle which was assisting in the pursuit.

The suspect then tried to back out of the crash and struck a Caribou County Sheriff’s vehicle that was attempting to block her in from the rear.

“This incident has the potential of having a very bad outcome, but due to the cooperation and coordination of the mine personnel, the Soda Springs Police Department and the Caribou County Sheriff’s Officer, it ended with no major injuries and minimal property damage,” the sheriff noted.

The U.S. Navy has begun the process of building its most advanced nuclear attack submarine, the Virginia-class USS Idaho, designated as SSN 799. It is the 26th ship of this class and will be the fifth Navy vessel to bear the name of Idaho.

The last Navy ship with the name USS Idaho was commissioned in 1919. Battleship BB42, known as “The Big Spud,” served with distinction during WWII.

This latest vessel will likely be christened in the summer of 2022 and then commissioned and enter active service with the U.S. Navy late in the summer of 2023, once sea trials have been complete.

The first event in the construction of the new USS Idaho was the keel-laying ceremony which took place in August 2020 at the General Dynamics Electric Boat facility in North Kingston, Rhode Island. Participants in that event included the ship’s sponsor, Ms. Teresa Stackley, and former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne, the USS Idaho Commissioning Committee’s advisory board chairman.

“I was honored to participate in the keel-laying ceremony last summer. Now we have the opportunity to help customize this state-of-the-art submarine with Idaho memorabilia, artwork, photographs, and other reminders to the officers and sailors that the people of our great state stand with them as they carry out their roles in our nation’s defense,” said Kempthorne.

“With the help of Idahoans and our businesses, the legacy will continue throughout the submarine’s lifespan as we are working to establish a scholarship endowment to advance the education of USS Idaho sailors and their family members.”

While generally considered a land-

locked state, Idaho has a long legacy of providing support to the U.S. Navy. During WWII, thousands of sailors trained at Naval Camp Farragut near Athol from from 1942-1945. The University of Idaho provided radio operator training to sailors from 19421945, and the Navy has operated the Naval Acoustic Research Detachment in Bayview since 1955.

The Idaho National Laboratory near Arco has its roots as a U.S. Navy artillery range. INL was also the home of the Naval Prototype Training Unit where 40,000 sailors trained on nuclear power plant operations from 1945 to 1995. These are but a few of the contributions of Idaho and our citizens to the U.S. Navy and the other branches of the military.

Water year precipitation continues to follow the same below normal pattern observed all year. The wettest basins are north of the Salmon-Clearwater divide and the Upper Snake headwaters (81 percent to 89 percent), the direst are the Owyhee, Wood, and Lost basins (59 percent to 70 percent), and the rest of the state’s basins are below normal (73 percent to 76 percent).

The rain events during the third week of May did not make up for the impact of another dry month on water year precipitation levels. Marginal increases in water year total precipitation occurred in only a few basins: Snake River above Palisades (44 percent). In the rest of the state, dry weather further decreased water year precipitation levels.

In general, forecasted streamflow volume continues to decline in response to the warm and dry spring weather. The spring runoff has peaked in lower elevation basins. In areas with high elevation, snowpack remaining, this week’s hot weather should bring increases in streamflow with levels peaking in early mid-June. Dry spring conditions suggest streamflow volumes will likely be lower than the April and May forecasts predicted.

Reservoir storage in the Upper Snake system peaked in April with 409,000 acre-feet less than last year’s peak storage volume. This system is currently at 79 percent of capacity with 194.5 KAF more than the 30 year average peak storage.

2001

The Forest Service is offering a rewards of $1,500 for the arrest and conviction of those individuals responsible for the vandalism that has been ongoing at the Trail Canyon Warming Hunt. A log was removed from the fire place on the cement floor and left to burn. It was found Tuesday morning before it could catch the picnic table on fire and threaten the structure. Two dozen large caliber bullet holes were found in the overhead door. They also tore the wooden siding off the restroom building behind the warming hut, as well as shooting into the structure.

A 1923 T-Bucket Ford won Best T-Bucket at the annual Pizza’s Run Car Show Saturday. The car belongs to Bill Hocking of Blackfoot. There were 144 entries this year, making it the biggest show ever, with cars coming from as far away as Oregon and Washington.

New officers for 2001-02 installed at the Grace Lions Club dinner held

at the Grace Café last week were Kip Mouton, Vice President; C.D. Simmons, Secretary; Jay Condie, President; Greg London, Treasurer; and Ray Welker, Tailtwister.

Brent Maughan will be the guest speaker at the Soda Springs Chamber of Commerce meeting this Thursday, June 21, at its no host noon luncheon at Stockam’s Grill. Maughan will discuss the Historical Enders Hotel with its 30 units, breakfast facility, gift shop, restaurant and ballroom. The grand opening for the Enders in planned for July 3.

1971

Miss Jessye Hale, daughter of Mrs. Marjorie Hale, Grace, left from Spokane, Washington June 13 on a tour of 10 European countries and Russia. Miss Hale is one of 56 youth representing nine states. These young people are part of the People Citizen Ambassador Program for 4-H and other youth groups abroad and staying with some European families.

The People to People program is aimed at building communications between Americans and citizens of other lands, to establish a lasting two-way relationship from which international friendship and understanding could grow.

October 29, 1970 was a sad day in the lives of the people of Caribou County. During the night, some would be woodcutter with his dull axe cut and chopped, until his energy was expended, trying to fell one of the beautiful spruce trees fronting the Caribou County Courthouse. The tree won the battle and is still standing.

The surgeon-like hands of Cecil Alldaffer, Caribou County Extension Agent, were quick to soothe the pain of the tree, with a preparation that closed the wounds, much to the relief and satisfaction of the tree.

The city, needing this tree for their Christmas Forest, was quick to come up with a steel jacket to help hold the tree upright and to secure it for the Christmas season lights.

IDAN-HA THEATRE

-INDOORFriday, June 5 Saturday, June 6

Masters of the Universe (PG-13)

The Sword of Power leads Prince Adam back to Eternia, a world shattered under the fiendish rule of Skeletor. Joining forces with Teela and Man-At-Arms, Adam must embrace his true destiny as He-Man -- the most powerful man in the universe.

Saturday Matinee 2:00 p.m. (All seats $5), 6:00 & 8:45 p.m. (Regular Prices)

Wednesday, June 10 6:00 & 8:45 p.m. (Regular Prices)

A veritable Where’s Waldo of a picture. Dillon Liechty of the Caribou Medical Center (black shirt) joined the throng in last year's Fun Run.

NOTICES

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE

To be sold for cash at a Trustee’s Sale on September 8, 2026, 11:00 AM at the County Courthouse, Front steps, 159 South Main Street, Soda Springs, the following-described real property situated in Caribou County, Idaho (the “Property”): THE EAST 5 FEET OF LOT 12, AND THE WEST 65 FEET OF LOT 13, BLOCK 3, FIRST ADDITION TO LEWIS SUBDIVISION, IN SODA SPRINGS, CARIBOU COUNTY, IDAHO, ACCORDING TO THE OFFICIAL PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF CARIBOU COUNTY, IDAHO, UNDER RECORDER'S INSTRUMENT NO. 32340 Commonly known as: 561 E 1st N, Soda Springs, ID 83276 James Nathan Lofthouse aka James N. Lofthouse, as Trustors conveyed the Property via a Deed of Trust dated August 3, 2022, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as Beneficiary, as nominee for Rocket Mortgage, LLC, FKA Quicken Loans, LLC, its successors and assigns, in which First American Title was named as Trustee. The Trust Deed was recorded in Caribou County, Idaho, on August 8, 2022, as Instrument No. 210077. The Deed of Trust was assigned for value to Rocket Mortgage, LLC f/k/a Quicken Loans, LLC via an Assignment of Deed of Trust dated August 11, 2023 and recorded in the Official Records of Caribou County, Idaho, on August 14, 2023, as Instrument No. 211640. Brigham J. Lundberg is the Successor Trustee pursuant to an Appointment of Trustee recorded in the Official Records of Caribou County, Idaho, on March 31, 2026 as Instrument No. 216014. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC (“Beneficiary”) has declared a default in the terms of said Deed of Trust due to Trustor’s failure to make monthly payments beginning April 1, 2025, and each month subsequent, which monthly installments would have been applied on the principal and interest due on said obligation and other charges against the property or loan.

By reason of said default, the Beneficiary has declared all sums owing on the obligation secured by said Deed of Trust immediately due and payable. The total amount due on this obligation is the principal sum of $178,913.49, interest in the sum of $12,312.09, escrow advances of $5,350.47, other amounts due and payable in the amount of $3,095.15, for a total amount owing of $199,671.20, plus accruing interest, late charges, and other fees and costs that may be incurred or advanced. The Beneficiary anticipates and may disburse such amounts as may be required to preserve and protect the property and for real property taxes that may become due or delinquent, unless such amounts of taxes are paid by the Trustors. If such amounts are paid by the Beneficiary, the amounts or taxes will be added to the obligations secured by the Deed of Trust. Other expenses to be charged against the proceeds of this sale include Trustee fees, attorney fees, costs and expenses of the sale, and late charges, if any. Beneficiary has elected and has directed the Trustee to sell the abovedescribed property to satisfy the obligation. The sale is a public sale and any person, including the Beneficiary, may bid at the sale. The bid price must be paid immediately upon the close of bidding by certified funds (valid money orders, certified checks or cashier’s checks). The conveyance will be made by Trustee’s Deed, without any representation or warranty, including warranty of title, express or implied, as the sale is made strictly on an as-is, where-is basis, without limitation, the sale is being made subject to all existing conditions, if any, of lead paint, mold or other environmental or health hazards. The Trustors, successor in interest to the Trustors, or any other person having an interest in the property, or any person named in Idaho Code § 451506, has the right, at any time prior to the Trustee’s Sale, to pay to the Beneficiary, or the successor in interest to the Beneficiary, the entire amount then due under the Deed of Trust and the obligation secured thereby (including costs and expenses actually incurred and attorney fees)

other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred and by curing any other default complained of herein that is capable of being cured by tendering the performance required under the obligation or to cure the default, by paying all costs and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the obligation and Deed of Trust with Successor Trustee fees and attorney fees. In the event that all defaults are cured the foreclosure will be dismissed and the foreclosure sale will be canceled. The scheduled Trustee’s Sale may be postponed by public proclamation up to 30 days for any reason. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Successor Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The above Trustors are named to comply with Idaho Code § 45-1506(4)(a). No representation is made that they are, or are not, presently responsible for this obligation. Important Notice to Potential Bidders: Federal law administered by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”), a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, requires certain residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the winning bidder at auction, you may be required to provide identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. This information is required by federal law and must be provided to complete the sale. Failure to provide required information after the sale may delay or prevent issuance of the foreclosure deed. This is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Dated this 1st day of May, 2026. Brigham J. Lundberg Successor Trustee 376 East 400 South, Suite 300, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 Telephone: 801-355-2886 Office Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 AM-5 PM (MST) HWM File No. ID22748

#1238-05-21-28-06-04-1126-T4

Police Auction of Unclaimed Towed Vehicles, sealed bid auction, bids to be accepted at Soda Springs City Hall by City Clerk Andrea Haderlie, 9 W 2nd S, Soda Springs, ID 83276 on June 8, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Bids to be opened at close of auction.

-Dukar Motorcycle, VIN number LAAJCML1X4103069. Registered Owner- Kaylum Balczewski, 10 N 7th E, Soda Springs, ID. Starting bid- $3300 resulting from tow costs, storage fees, and administrative fees.

-2006 Nissan Armada, odometer unknown, VIN number 5N1AA08B76N717123, license plate 2MA849U. Registered Owner- Odessa Regan, 303 Maple St, Rupert, ID 83350. Starting bid- $4300 resulting from tow costs, storage fees, and administrative fees.

-2009 Nissan Murano, odometer unknown, VIN number JN8AZ18WX9W157459, license plate 1BW5979. Registered Owner- Angelia Palmer, 608 Sequoia St, Chubbuck, ID 83202. Starting bid- $4300 resulting from tow costs, storage fees, and administrative fees.

-2010 Chevrolet Avo, odometer unknown, VIN number KL1TD5DE1AB120021, license plate CU7802C. Registered Owner- David Ionashku, 11454 SE 90th Ave Apt 422, Happy Valley, OR 97086. Starting bid- $4300 resulting from tow costs, storage fees, and administrative fees.

-1983 Chevrolet K20, odometer unknown, VIN number 1GCGK24J168181, license plate 3C642M. Registered OwnerMichael Glover, 1497 Bailey Creek Dr, Soda Springs, ID 83276. Starting bid- $4300 resulting from tow costs, storage fees, and administrative fees.

-2013 Ram 1500, odometer unknown, VIN number 1C6RR7MT1DS708057, license plate E746WJ. Registered Owner- Ray Child, 496 Firestone, Santaquin, UT 84655. Starting bid$4300 resulting from tow costs, storage fees, and administrative fees.

-1988 Ford Crown Victoria, odometer unknown, VIN number 2FABP74F8JX200323, license plate 9EDP8. Registered OwnerDaniel Santos, 75 Villa Dr, Clearfield, UT 84015. Starting bid$4300 resulting from tow costs,

storage fees, and administrative fees.

-2010 Nissan Altima, odometer unknown, VIN number 1N4AL2AP2AN519077, license plate 1BG663U. Registered Owner- Samuel Netuschil, 12895 Egret Trail, Lava Hot Springs, ID 83296. Starting bid- $4300 resulting from tow costs, storage fees, and administrative fees.

-2000 Buick Le Sabre, odometer 168043, VIN number 1G4HR54K7YU120833, license plate 3OE033U. Registered Owner- Carl Patterson, 1206 W Main St, Marsing, ID 83639. Starting bid- $4300 resulting from tow costs, storage fees, and administrative fees.

-2012 Kia wagon 4 door, odometer unknown, VIN number 5XYKT3A11CG193959. Registered Owner- Summer Myers, 125 Caliente St, Reno NV 89509. Starting bid- $4300 resulting from tow costs, storage fees, and administrative fees. #1241-05-28-06-04-26-T2

NOTICE

INVITATION FOR SEALED BIDS

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game manages lands known as the Georgetown Summit Wildlife Management Area (WMA), near Soda Springs, Idaho. The Department seeks an agreement for domestic cattle grazing of 120 AUMs for a duration of three (3) grazing seasons beginning with the 2026 grazing season and ending with the 2028 grazing season.

Sealed bids will be accepted until 5:00 PM, 23 June 2026. All bids must be on an authorized bid form and submitted inside a sealed envelope. Bids must be received at the Department’s Southeast Regional Office, 1345 Barton Rd., Pocatello, Idaho, 83201. The Department reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

Persons interested in submitting a proposal can receive a packet with agreement details, bid terms and conditions, and a proposal form by contacting Jason Beck, Regional Wildlife Biologist, Georgetown Summit WMA, (208) 336-1255; or Curtis Hendricks at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Southeast Region, (208) 2361265.

#1245-06-04-11-26-T2

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

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

The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 331, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276.

Entered as “periodicals” at the Soda Springs,

OBITUARY

James (Jim) McCoy Workman Jr., 75, of Soda Springs Idaho, passed away peacefully at home on May 30, 2026, with his Wife by his side. Jim knew his time on this earth was short and had written his own obituary. In keeping with his wishes, it was unchanged with the exception of this first and the last paragraph.

I was born February 20, 1951, in Richmond, California, to James McCoy Workman and Norma Jean Whittaker Workman. Dad’s schooling and work took us to Seattle, Washington, Satellite Beach, Florida, and Granger, Utah. My younger sisters, Terrie, Toni, and Connie, completed our family.

As a youth, I loved the Scouting program, earning my Eagle Scout, and serving as a merit badge counselor for Astronomy and Orienteering at Camp Lenoche in Florida.

After graduating from Granger High School, I served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Central Germany. Serving a mission was where I learned to turn to my Heavenly Father, realized all I owed to my Savior, Jesus Christ, and grew to love His gospel. If any of my posterity asked me if serving a mission is important, I would say unquestioningly YES! There are no shortcuts to achieving the spiritual growth a mission offers.

Following my mission, during the Vietnam War, I joined the Air Force, training at Keesler AFB and ultimately being assigned to Grand Forks AFB, where I repaired Inertial Navigation Systems. Although I served during a very unpopular war, I was honored to serve my country and am proud of my progeny who have likewise served.

After my time in the Air Force, I attended BYU, earning a degree in Chemical Engineering. My first job was with Monsanto in Soda Springs, Idaho, where I had the privilege of working under Wayne Tufts.

On July 6 th, 1980, God brought an angel, LaRue McCulloch, into my life. We went on our first date on August 2 nd and were engaged a short 17 days later. On October 11, 1980, LaRue and I were sealed for eternity in the Salt Lake Temple, and so began a life of joy for me from that day on! My angel wife brought light and happiness into my life. That light came from her ability to seek to find the good in everyone she met, her love of the scriptures,

James (Jim) McCoy Workman Jr.

February 20, 1951 ~ May 30, 2026

her deep commitment to covenants, and her spiritual sensitivity. Because of her, our home was Christ-centered. Many visitors have commented over the years of the feeling of peace they feel as they enter our home. Countless people, from youth we taught to complete strangers, have commented that they can tell we really love each other. Observing my dear wife’s unwavering faith and hope has made me seek to be a better person and a more worthy follower of Christ.

I still remember the first meal she made me. There was a tablecloth on the table (she STILL insists on a tablecloth even for a simple sandwich on a paper plate), it was beautifully set, and the meal was burned. My love for her increased even more because of that effort! The only things she could really cook were bread and a few cookie recipes. The few recipes she had mastered were delicious, but often, bread was the only thing truly edible at dinner. However, my angel was committed to learning all the skills! Her perseverance has been amply rewarded, as anyone will attest.

My employment with GE, Corning, and finally BYU took me to several different states. In each location, we found much to love, made friends, and served the Lord as best we could. My favorite callings were always with my angel wife, whether with youth, as her “third counselor” the 3 times she served as a RS pres, or, my favorite, as nursery leaders. I recall one time telling her about a promotion that would require moving from a favorite place. LaRue said, “I don’t care if I have to live in a canvas tent in Alaska, I’ll be happy anywhere, as long as I’m with you.” Who couldn’t help but succeed with such love and support?

June 1776 in History

In June 1776, the American colonies formally initiated their push for sovereignty through critical political resolutions and major military actions. On June 7, Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee introduced a resolution to the Continental Congress stating that the colonies “are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States.” Recognizing the weight of this proposal, Congress appointed the Committee of Five on June 11 to draft a formal document declaring independence. This prestigious committee consisted of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston. Simultaneously, state-level governance was rapidly evolving; on June 12, the Virginia Convention adopted the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which established fundamental freedoms that heavily influenced Jefferson’s writing and the future U.S. Bill of Rights.

The final days of the month brought both decisive military success and major political milestones. On June 28, the Committee of Five officially submitted its final draft of the Declaration of Independence to the Continental Congress for review. That very same day, far to the south, Patriot forces at Fort Sullivan in Charleston Harbor repelled a massive British sea

and land assault. This crucial victory at what was later named Fort Moultrie boosted American morale and kept the British out of the South for several years.

The momentum carried directly into June 29, when the Virginia state constitution was officially adopted and Patrick Henry was sworn in as the commonwealth’s first governor. While the American colonies restructured their governments on the Atlantic coast, Spanish colonists were expanding their footprint on the Pacific, founding Mission Dolores on June 29 in present-day San Francisco, California. Collectively, these events set the final stage for the historic vote on independence just days later.

Timeline of June 1776

June 7: Richard Henry Lee introduced the resolution for independence to Congress.

June 11: The Committee of Five was appointed to draft the declaration.

June 12: Virginia adopted its historic Declaration of Rights.

June 28: The draft declaration was submitted, and Patriots won at Fort Sullivan.

June 29: Virginia adopted its constitution, and Mission Dolores was founded.

To our very happy union were added one incredible daughter, Jenny, also known as Bones. The Lord knew I would only be raising one daughter on this Earth, so he sent me the very best. She was followed by 4 wonderful sons, Jake, Isaac, Henry, and Jimmy. These five children have been a great blessing, and as their father, I have treasured so many happy adventures, games around the kitchen table, monthly personal interviews, attending their activities, and bragging about their accomplishments to practically anyone who made eye contact with me!

LaRue was determined all our kids would know how to read before kindergarten, so we combined efforts and made it happen. Those memories of reading to each child, even as they were in middle school, I cherish. As I recall playing basketball in our driveway, helping them learn to swim in our pools in Texas and Utah, campouts, flag football in our yard, Red Ryder BB guns with straw bale targets, and countless golf rounds, I am so grateful my Heavenly Father sent these 5 precious souls to be part of our eternal family. My family is truly the greatest gift my Heavenly Father has ever given me. I am overcome with gratitude as I ponder the blessed life I have enjoyed these past 45+ years with my beloved wife, children, and grandchildren. I have been loath to leave them, but I am anxious to fall at the feet of my Savior and thank Him for always being there for me. I hope He finds me worthy to be called one of His followers. There is also a feeling of happy anticipation at being reunited with loved ones who have preceded me.

Some final words from the Old Man...

Who you marry is the most important decision you will ever make in this life. That decision determines whether you have eternal joy or endless misery. Never marry anyone you feel forced to, compelled to, or guilted into what should be a sacred union.

Everyone has a right to grow up.

Follow the Prophet. Note his promises in every Conference and every talk he gives. Re-read them over and over and FOLLOW them.

The temple is where the veil is the thinnest and the Spirit most available. Do whatever it takes to get there as often as possible.

Cops

continued from front page

inate the jerkiness of two handed turning.”

Peck demonstrated a number of other techniques, including evasive steering, reversing through obstacles, and other slalom and curve based maneuvers.

Another part of the instruction involved speeding up relatively quickly and then braking to avoid an emergent obstacle, which represented a pedestrian or other critical situation in the roadway.

“I’m going to go up to 35, almost to APS, then hit my brakes and evasive steer in time to avoid hitting anything,” he said, navigating one of the most difficult parts of the course. “With the instructor class I went through, I’ll be able to teach stuff like this to our guys, as well as different pursuit techniques.”

While it was not a part of this week’s course, spike strips and PIT (Precision Immobilization Technique) moves are also things that Peck can teach to his fellow officers.

The training for these kind of high liability tasks is required on a two-year basis, though most law enforcement staffs stagger their personnel so that only half of them will need to be gone for training during any given year. The ability to utilize Peck’s skills to conduct state training and testing makes that a lot easier.

“We would usually have to go to Post in Meridian or somewhere else, so this is a great change,” Deputy Roper noted.

The prophet Joseph Smith said, “The closer we get to our Heavenly Father, the more inclined we are to look with compassion on perishing souls.” Choose compassion.

The Atonement of Jesus Christ is for everyone. He suffered and died for all of us. His hand is stretched out still. It’s never too late. All you have to do is make even the smallest effort, and He will reach your reaching. Christ atoned for EVERYONE. Yes. Even that person.

My love and interest in my progeny will still be there in the next realm, so when you miss me, know I am right there. I will be watching over you, cheering you on, celebrating your many happy moments, comforting you in the sad ones, and one day, many years from now, I will be there as you cross from this life to the next.

And remember, Jolly Ranchers are clear liquids.

I am survived by my wife LaRue, my children Jenny (Ryan Thalman), Jake (Erin), Isaac (La Kiesha), Henry (Beth), Jimmy (Julia), grandchildren Eli, Venny, Hazel, Miri, Galveston, Ben Ryan, Anubis, and Kenzuri, my sisters Terrie (Dave Thomas), Toni (Don Stowell), and Connie (Mark Caldwell), motherin-law RaNae McCulloch (Foster), in-laws Lonnie (Kasia) McCulloch, RaLyn McCulloch, Tiana (Tui) Filiaga, Seth (Tina) McCulloch, Kim (Jay) Barnard, Jim (Charlene) McCulloch, Lee (Pam) Foster, and Rinnie (Scott) Hancock. Preceded in death by my parents, father-in-law Merlin McCulloch, and brother-inlaw Charles (Lori) McCulloch. The Family would like to thank Dr. Michael Peiper at the Afton VA clinic, Dr. Ryan Finn, and the Symbii Hospice Providers who helped provide compassionate care in the final days. Per Jim’s wishes, there was no viewing, and his funeral service was short and sweet. The service was held at the Soda Springs Stake Center on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 11:00 am, with the dedication of the grave at the Fairview Cemetery.

Services under the direction of Red Rose Funeral Home, Preston, Idaho. To share a favorite memory of Jim or to offer condolences to the family, please leave a tribute at www.redrosefuneral.com

High speed pursuits and intense driving runs are not especially common in Caribou county, they are by no means unheard of. Recently, a high speed pursuit that originated in Bannock County roared over the summit from Lava, and the nature of the two highways that run through the county mean that potentially dangerous traffic could always be around the corner. Even incidents like the recent traffic pile up north of Soda Springs due to high dust and wind can necessitate the kinds of driving tactics that were put into practice at the airport.

“We need to be ready for everything we can,” Peck said.

Sgt. Taylor Peck helped to run local police through the high speed and liability coursework last week.

Grace Graduates its class of 2026

Joining the students of Soda Springs and North Gem, Grace High School seniors took their own final bow on stage at the Gem Valley Performing Arts Center last Wednesday. Grace is typically the last group to graduate, as a result of the potato harvest early in the school, year that pushes things back a bit. The wait was worth it, though, as the ceremony was entertaining and a fitting send off for an amazing class of students.

The processional was accompanied by Beth Buxton and Lisa Swensen, and an invocation was offered by Drew Wright.

Salutatorian Gavin Draper led things off, followed by a musical performance of “Name” by Parker Yost and Carter Robinson.

They were followed by not one, not two, but three Valedictorians (Kallie Stoddard, Hayden Ball and Brock Johnson), each of whom provided a different take on their experiences together with their class – many of whom had been together for their full academic careers from kindergarten on – and what they will take away from their time at Grace High School.

The slideshow presentation by Paisley Barthlome was a great demonstration of this, as the images included a number of class pictures dating back into middle school, elementary, and beyond with a large number of the same students who have spent the majority of their lives growing up with one another.

Class President Kamryn Mansfield shared her own thoughts, and then introduced the keynote speaker, Kirsten Burrell. Burrell gave a speech that was directed primarily to the graduates themselves, and contained a lot of shared memories, laughs, experiences, and lessons. It was clear that the group that stood on the stage last week has formed a close bond. As one of the Valedictorians, Kallie Stoddard said, “we

are one of the biggest classes in a while, but also one of the closest.”

Bryan Jensen spoke to the graudates as well, and presented them to the board and the audience for the reception of their diplomas.

While not universal, there were a number of impressive displays including flips, lightsaber demonstrations, poses, and more from the graduates as they took their hard-earned diplomas. This perhaps in lieu of the throwing of hats.

Following the stage ceremony, students joined each other, underclassmen, families, and members of the community in the gym for a chance to mingle and soak in the well-deserved congratulations.

Graduates and Honors:

Colten Andersen

Cooper Andersen

Emma Andreasen

Hayden Ball***

Christian Barrera Madrigal

Paisley Barthlome***

McKendrick Burrell

Gentrie Carpenter**

Skyla Could Colt Coleman***

Maycen Collins

Jax Corbett***

Kirynn Crosbie**

Eric Draper

Hailey Hall***

Chales Hubbard

Kallie Hulse*

Brock Johnson***

Josie Johnson***

Tessica Jorgensen**

Carter Kimball

Skout Hardy-Kimball

Ashley King***

Shaston Lloyd

Kamryn Mansfield***

Adrian Mejia

Bailey Mickelson

Bryant Moss*

Taygen Peck**

Adison Rasmussen

Kayla Rigby***

Wilson Robbins**

Carter Robinson***

Bradley Schiele

Alayna Smith***

Bodee Smith

Chase Smith***

Jaycie Smith***

Korbin Smith*

Cort Spencer

Kallie Stoddard***

Max White Jonah Wilkerson***

Case Williams*

Parker Yost

Bella Zulu*

3.7 – 4.0 GPA High Honors ***

3.5 – 3.69 GPA Honors**

3.3 – 3.49 GPA Honorable Mention*

Senior Class Officers

President Kamryn Mansfield; Vice President Adi Rasmussen; Secretary Cooper Anderson; Reporter Paisley Barthlome.

The Superintendent of the Grace School District is Jason Moss, and the School Board includes Chairman Ryan Christensen, Vice Chair Laura Johnson, and members Justin Andersen, Emily Smith, and Andrea Smith.

The principal of Grace High is Bryan Jensen, and Amy Rau is the school’s secretary.

The class of 2026 was awarded a total amount of $461,985 in scholarships from a variety of awarding organizations, with Idaho Launch and Idaho State University being the most frequently shared.

The class of 2026 sits together on stage for a final time.

Parker Yost and Carter Robinson provided a touching musical number to the proceedings.

Guest Speaker Kirsten Burrell.

Kallie Stoddard

Brock Johnson Hayden Ball

Gavin Draper

Thursday, May 21, 2026

BAREBACK RIDING

1. STODDARD, TATE 62.0

2. CORNELISON, KROYDEN 54.0

3. EBORN, BEAU 51.0

BARREL RACING

1. REAM, RIDLEE 18.416

2. SOLOMON, MYLEE 18.688

3. JENSEN, KENADEE 18.748

4. LEAVITT, CHAISLEE 18.935

5. SCAFFIDE, BRIDGET 19.024

6. BINGHAM, HANNAH 19.214

7. COOLEY, SAGE 19.392

8. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 19.519

9. GIBSON, COETA 19.587

10. VRSKA, LIBERTY 19.724

11. NATE, TAYLAR 19.813

12. SORENSEN, BRYDEN 19.983

13. BAXTER, RYLEE 20.492

14. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 20.644

15. MENDENHALL, ZOEY 21.672

16. PARKER, MAGGIE 22.312

17. KILROY, ARIE 24.402

18. JOHNSON, MAELY 24.526

19. JACKSON, JILL 27.937

20. TALBOT, TESSLY 29.431

BREAKAWAY ROPING

1. COOLEY, SAGE 3.020

2. VOUROS, TAYLEE 3.100

3. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH

3.130

4. SOLOMON, MYLEE 3.360

5. SKINNER, MAYCEE 3.530

6. CHRISTENSEN, JOSIE 4.350

7. TALBOT, TESSLY 4.940

8. PARKER, ROANIE 5.170

9. CALL, RIETTA 12.180

10. SMITH, JAYCEE 12.770

11. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 22.260

GOAT TYING

1. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH

7.950

2. SOLOMON, MYLEE 8.420

3. JOHNSON, MAELY 8.500

4. SMITH, JAYCEE 9.020

5. BARNES, SUNNI 9.390

6. RASMUSSEN, JOSEY 9.760

7. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 10.190

8. VOUROS, TAYLEE 12.550

POLE BENDING

1. SOLOMON, MYLEE 21.615

2. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 22.702

3. REAM, RIDLEE 22.795

4. BINGHAM, HANNAH 23.366

5. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 23.770

6. KILROY, ARIE 23.898

7. COOLEY, SAGE 24.274

8. MENDENHALL, ZOEY 24.282

9. LEAVITT, CHAISLEE 25.568

10. JACKSON, JILL 27.638

11. GIBSON, COETA 27.673 12. NATE, TAYLAR 28.203 13. PARKER, MAGGIE 31.002 14. VRSKA, LIBERTY 33.808

JENSEN, KENADEE 37.133

STEER WRESTLING 1. MERRITT,

District 8 High School Rodeo Montpelier, Idaho May 21 - May 23, 2026

TEAM ROPING

1. KERR, RYDER (HD) & KERR, CASE (HL) 5.910

2. DOUGLAS, BAILEY (HD) & POWELL, TEGANN (HL) 7.460

3. SMITH, DUKE (HD) & CRANE, MCKADE (HL) 9.680

4. THOMPSON, RJ (HD) & STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH (HL) 10.770

5. SOLOMON, MYLEE (HD) & ROMRELL, CADE (HL) 14.690

6. BINGHAM, HANNAH (HD) & HEELER #1, DRAW (HL) 15.380

7. VOUROS, TAYLEE (HD) & BARNES, SUNNI (HL) 19.120

8. STODDARD, BOSTON (HD) & STODDARD, TATE (HL) 27.880

9. BAYLES, HADLEY (HD) & FOX, TRIG (HL) 31.220

TIE DOWN ROPING

1. KERR, CASE 12.770

2. SMITH, DUKE 12.950

3. KERR, RYDER 13.900

4. BINGHAM, LANE 15.200

5. SOLOMON, RIDGE 17.370

6. ROMRELL, CADE 19.080

7. SMITH, COY 23.170

8. WESTON, TIBBS 29.160

Friday, May 22, 2026

BAREBACK RIDING

1. CORNELISON, KROYDEN

70.0

2. STODDARD, TATE 68.0

BARREL RACING

1. REAM, RIDLEE 18.919

2. SOLOMON, MYLEE 18.954

3. SCAFFIDE, BRIDGET 19.028

4. SORENSEN, BRYDEN 19.152

5. KILROY, ARIE 19.218

6. JENSEN, KENADEE 19.435

7. COOLEY, SAGE 19.453

8. NATE, TAYLAR 19.652

9. LEAVITT, CHAISLEE 19.711

10. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 19.712

11. VRSKA, LIBERTY 19.780

12. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 20.746

13. MENDENHALL, ZOEY 20.768

14. PARKER, MAGGIE 22.019

15. JOHNSON, MAELY 22.606

16. TALBOT, TESSLY 24.229

17. GIBSON, COETA 24.368

18. JACKSON, JILL 24.945

19. BINGHAM, HANNAH 28.008

BREAKAWAY ROPING

1. CHRISTENSEN, JOSIE 4.010

2. BINGHAM, HANNAH 4.060

3. NATE, TAYLAR 5.050

4. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 13.920

5. REAM, RIDLEE 17.640

6. MENDENHALL, ZOEY 20.490

GOAT TYING

1. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH

8.000

2. JOHNSON, MAELY 8.230

3. SOLOMON, MYLEE 8.420

4. SKINNER, MAYCEE 8.670

5. SMITH, JAYCEE 8.890

6. BARNES, SUNNI 10.280

7. JACKSON, JILL 10.720

8. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 11.760

9. LYTLE, ADELLIA 15.130

POLE BENDING

1. SOLOMON, MYLEE 21.611 10.00

2. BINGHAM, HANNAH 22.681 9.00

3. MENDENHALL, ZOEY 23.227 8.00

4. COOLEY, SAGE 23.532 7.00

5. KILROY, ARIE 24.004 6.00

6. LEAVITT, CHAISLEE 24.402 5.00

7. REAM, RIDLEE 25.142 4.00

8. PARKER, MAGGIE 26.133 3.00

9. JACKSON, JILL 26.903 2.00

10. JENSEN, KENADEE 27.081 1.00

11. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 29.096 0.00

12. GIBSON, COETA 33.311 0.00

13. DOUGLAS, BAILEY 33.385 0.00

14. NATE, TAYLAR 33.947 0.00

15. SORENSEN, BRYDEN 34.629 0.00

STEER WRESTLING

1. MERRITT, BODRIE 5.350

2. SMITH, DUKE 8.160

3. ROMRELL, CADE 29.330

TEAM ROPING

1. BUTTARS, HAYDEN (HD) & SMITH, KYZER (HL) 10.160

2. TALBOT, TESSLY (HD) & SKINNER, COOPER (HL) 14.850

3. BAYLES, HADLEY (HD) & FOX, TRIG (HL) 26.820

TIE DOWN ROPING

1. ROMRELL, CADE 12.450

2. KERR, RYDER 12.830

3. SMITH, DUKE 13.420

4. SOLOMON, RIDGE 14.100

5. CRANE, MCKADE 15.850

6. SMITH, KRUZ 22.360

7. POPE, DAXTON 22.610

8. HEMSLEY, HUDSON 27.600

Saturday, May 23, 2026

BAREBACK RIDING

1. CORNELISON, KROYDEN 74.0

2. STODDARD, TATE 60.0

BARREL RACING

1. REAM, RIDLEE 18.708

2. SOLOMON, MYLEE 18.755

3. KILROY, ARIE 18.765

4. LEAVITT, CHAISLEE 18.911

5. VRSKA, LIBERTY 19.043

6. JENSEN, KENADEE 19.069

7. SCAFFIDE, BRIDGET 19.109

8. BINGHAM, HANNAH 19.135

9. TALBOT, TESSLY 19.521

10. NATE, TAYLAR 19.530

11. COOLEY, SAGE 19.535

12. SORENSEN, BRYDEN 19.545

13. BAXTER, RYLEE AFTON 19.662

14. GIBSON, COETA 19.939

15. STEADMAN, PRESLEIGH 20.368

2026 Athletes of the Year

BY JODY REEVES

As another school year has drawn to a close it is once again time for us to select our last sports honors of the year. As we did last year we have selected one male and one female from each high school to be honored as that school’s athletes of the year. We selected individuals who stood out to us not only as great athletes but also someone who showed good leadership, sportsmanship, and dedication. These were not easy choices to make and there were several individuals from each school that met the qualifications to earn this honor.

In addition to selecting an athlete of the year from each school we are also once again selecting an Unsung Hero from each school. These are athletes

who definitely contributed to each of their teams but for whatever reason did not get as much recognition as maybe they should have. We consider this one of the top honors that we award each year.

In the case of both awards the athletes’ chances are greatly increased by participating in multiple sports. We do tend to lean more towards upperclassmen for these awards due mostly to the likelihood of varsity level experience. Not to put a damper on such an uplifting topic but we were a little disappointed in the number, or lack thereof, of three sport athletes to select from. We highly encourage student athletes to participate in as many sports as possible during their high school careers. There truly is a sport for every single kid in the

county so get out there, get healthy and have some fun.

With all that being said we will now get down to business. Below is this year’s list of each school’s male and female athlete of the year along with that school’s male and female unsung hero of the year. Congratulations to everyone on the list as well as all the athletes that performed this past school year.

Soda Springs

Female Athlete of the Year: Ellie Wood (XC, basketball, track, cheer)

Male Athlete of the Year: Elijah Dilworth (football, wrestling, baseball)

Female Unsung Hero: Maddie Kempe (XC, basketball, track, cheer)

Male Unsung Hero: Kaden Harrison (football, basketball)

Female

Male

North Gem

Female Athlete

Male Athlete of the Year: Craig Yost (football, basketball)

Female Unsung Hero: Mariah O’Brien (volleyball, basketball, track)

Male Unsung Hero: William

Grace Female Athlete of the Year: Tessica Jorgensen (volleyball, basketball, golf)

Male Athlete of the Year: Gavin Draper (football, basketball, track)

Unsung Hero: Addie Rasmussen (volleyball, basketball)

Unsung Hero: Case Williams (football, track)

of the Year: Indyana Hatch (volleyball, basketball, track, cheer)

Wakley (football, basketball, track)

North Gem's Male Unsung Hero is William Wakley.

Grace's Female Athlete of the Year goes to Tessica Jorgensen.

The Cardinals Male Unsung Hero is Kaden Harrison.

Grace's Male Unsung Hero is Case Williams.

The Girzzlies Male Athlete of the Year goes to Gavin Draper.

Soda Springs Female Unsung Hero is Maddie Kempe.

Grace's Female Unsung Hero is Addie Rasmussen.

Soda Springs Female Athlete of the Year goes to Ellie Wood.

The Cowboys Male Athlete of the Year goes to Craig Yost.

North Gem's Female Athlete of the Year goes to Indyana Hatch.

North Gem's Female Unsung Hero is Mariah O'Brien.

The Cardinals Male Athlete of the Year goes to Elijah Dilworth.