Enterprise The Idaho
Pedestrian safety among issues for Soda City Council
The City Council of Soda Springs met for a regular meeting last week, and the biggest topic on the agenda was the recent pedestrian/car accident on Highway 30 across from the City Park. The young girl, who was walking across the street at the crosswalk on the busy Highway 30 intersection, received minor injuries in the accident in early October, but everyone involved acknowledged that the outcome could have been significantly worse.
The driver of the vehicle, Kim Christensen, spoke to the council about the incident, and his desire to see something done to increase safety on the road. “I have been a member of this community for a long time,” he said. “The issue I have, I know is not a city issue, but it happened in the city. On Oct 3, at 3:15-3:30, I was involved in a pedestrian…by Arctic Circle.” Christensen stated that a truck was parked in a spot where it was blocking the crosswalk sign at the corner.
He had been coming from the dentist office, and when he turned back facing west, the truck had been blocking the two
young ladies and he collided with one of them as he moved forward. “The little girl is going to be okay,” Christensen said. He explained how quickly the incident occurred by stating, “I approached the crossing, and there they were.” He immediately pulled over and called 911, and told them to send an ambulance. “I was in shock. My breathing was shallow and heart rate was elevated,” Christensen said.
“This is a dangerous crosswalk. It’s used a lot by children coming across from the park. I realize this is a state highway responsibility, but we just want some kind of improvement.” Christensen noted that the area around the crosswalk can easily be obscured by parked vehicles and vegetation, leading to near misses. Christensen suggested putting the sign a bit further up the road, and not immediately at the crosswalk, and maybe putting the lights higher up.
He also pointed to some of the common sense things that he sees as potential safety hazard issues that the city might take into account. “I’d like to see better safety at all of our crossings. Put yourself in my shoes,”
Christensen said, clearly affected by the incident. “You can imagine what flashed in front of my eyes when this happened.”
Christensen asked that the city “coordinate this concern with [the state of] Idaho, and have them maybe look at the crossings and maybe get something going? We all have accidents, that’s why they’re called accidents. I take full responsibility and I have and I do. I would just like to see some type of improvement if it would be okay. I’m very proud to be a member of this city and this community. My parents ran several successful businesses in this community, and their businesses helped put several local kids through college, and I want to continue to help.”
The issue regarding the crosswalks, signage, speed limits, and other decision on the roadway is that Highway 30 is regulated by the state transportation department. The city has limited authority to make changes on the road, and must receive permission for
SAFETY On Page 4
Presbyterian Church prepares for Holiday Bazaar Nov 1
On Sunday, members of the Presbyterian Church in Soda Springs were treated to a presentation by former congregant Frederick Partey. Partey is the reason the church became involved in an ongoing series of projects to support potable water wells in Ghana, where Partey’s home village is. Partey lives and works in the United States most of the year, but returns to Africa to coordinate a project started with the assistance of the Presbyterian Church in Soda Springs. Over the years, the church has directed funds raised during the Holiday Bazaar and through other efforts toward the creation and maintenance of the wells in Partey’s original home country of Ghana. While the financial outlay is modest in the grand scheme of things, it has made an immense difference in the lives of those who can now obtain clean water miles closer to their homes, according to Partey. Fredrick spoke with church members following services on Sunday, answering questions and explaining the current stage of the projects, which have been partially sponsored by the bazaar.
The Bazaar, which has raised money in the past for the same well projects, is scheduled for November 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with take out starting at 11:00 a.m.
The event has been a highlight of the season for nearly the last eight and a half decades, being started at the outset of World War II to provide soldiers shipping out some of reminders of home that the community felt they might need. Over time, many of the specifics of the event have changed, but the essential mission of providing support to those who need it, and in the process bringing together the community as a whole in the spirit of Thanksgiving, has remained the same.
Marilyn Kukachka is one of several organizers of the yearly event. She put the number at around 35 of volunteers who helped make the event a success last year, “and that doesn’t
November will be starting out on the right foot, with the annual bazaar scheduled for day
include some women who helped make some of the potatoes and pies.” The menu for the dinner this year is listed as a “Turkey dinner with all the fixins,” including gravy, potatoes, stuffing, yams/sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Based on past years, it will be impossible for anyone who attended to leave hungry, and Pastor Nathan Sobers—who made sure everyone left with food to take home last year—is likely to once again make sure everyone makes themselves at home, fills their stomachs, and stays as long as they’d like.
The food, as well as the setup cleanup, serving, and other essential elements of the event are a combined effort of
BAZAAR On Page 4
Family Heartbreakingly Celebrates “Last Christmas Together”
Nine year old Brielle Bird whose fight with stage 4 cancer has been followed by nearly a million Instagram fans is experiencing both heartbreak and hope as her family staged an early Christmas. With her health rapidly declining, her mother, Kendra Bird, announced the decision to celebrate the holiday weeks ahead of schedule so
Brie could enjoy the moment
“as a family of six.” The festive home was decorated with lights, a tree, and stacked gifts under the fireplace, and a ‘bird’ backdrop for what may be the family’s final holiday together in this chapter. Outside support has poured in, including a surprise package from pop star Ariana Grande, who sent her a personalized “Wicked” themed care box in recognition of Brie’s courage. While the story is deeply emotional, it also highlights the power of community and kindness in the face of such a profound challenge.
Lava Hot Springs Hot Pools Close Temporarily for Renovations
Lava Hot Springs’ world-famous hot pools have closed temporarily for renovations, according to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. The closure began October 13 and is expected to last until early November. Crews are performing upgrades on the facility’s largest and hottest pool, a process that requires draining and refilling the naturally replenished mineral springs—a task officials describe as both delicate and essential. While the hot pools are unavailable, visitors can still enjoy the Indoor Aquatic Center and Kiddie Cove, which remain open to the public. Officials encourage guests to check the Lava Hot Springs website and social media pages for updates on reopening dates.
ISU Awards $1.2 Million in STEM Scholarships to Future Teachers
Idaho State University has announced $1.2 million in new STEM scholarships aimed at combating Idaho’s ongoing shortage of qualified math and science teachers. The funding comes through a five-year National Science Foundation Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program grant, providing full tuition and living stipends for students pursuing STEM education degrees. Through the initiative, titled “Idaho Making Progress Against Critical Teacher Shortages in STEM,” participants will first earn an undergraduate degree in a STEM field before entering ISU’s master’s teaching program to gain certification. In its first year, ISU has selected three Noyce Scholars—two undergraduates and one graduate student—to launch the program. University officials say the investment will help strengthen Idaho’s K–12 education system by preparing a new generation of highly skilled STEM educators.
Highway 30, which runs through Soda Springs, is a state highway. As a result, there are some limits on what the city is able to do on the roadway by way of marking or prioritizing pedestrian crossings.
one!
Clear Reflections in Southeast Idaho
BY LYDIA HALL
In last week’s Enterprise, we incorrectly named the owner of Clear Reflections, an independent soap making company from the Arbon Valley area. Rather than post a one line correction, here is the owner of the company, Lydia Hall, to introduce herself and her company to the readers. Apologies again to Lydia, and please take a look at her product line and information on https://www. clearreflectionsoaps.com.
Around the age of eight I started having really painful rashes on my face and neck area. For a while I and my parents did not know why. We got told it was allergies to food, I eliminated those foods and it still didn’t clear up. Fast forward a few years and I started to notice I would break out if I used certain chapsticks, body washes, perfumes, lotions, etc. The ones that I had the worst allergic reactions to contained fragrance oils, dyes, and harsh filler chemicals. Through a lot of allergic reactions I found a few products I could use, but I still wasn’t happy with how my skin looked.
Then last year after finishing my summer job, I was deciding what I wanted to do next. I have always been interested in homemade items and learning new skills. My mom had seen a class teaching how to make soap and I thought what a good skill it would be to have and how it could help me and others I know who have sensitive skin. I took the online class in December of 2024 and after its completion I ordered all of the supplies and ingredients I would need to start making soap. My first soap was scented with lavender, known for its soothing and calming properties. Soap has to cure for one month. Once cured I started using it and saw that my skin started to clear up even more (other soaps had caused acne as well as rashes) and I wasn’t putting anything bad on my body.
Real soap is made up of very few ingredients. You need Sodium Hydroxide (lye), Oils (such as coconut oil, olive oil, castor oil, or shea butter).
And scent or color if you want to add it. I use pure essential oils and natural clays to scent and color my soaps. I had a few batches of soap that were fails and those taught me things I needed to know to become better at it. Learning to formulate my own recipes has been my favorite. Once you learn how soap works and how to make recipes the sky is
made
Hall
products.
the limit. After making and curing a few different kinds of soap I had some family and relatives try it. All of the feedback I got was positive, so I continued to come up with different scents and make soap. I decided to turn it into a business. I want to provide people who have sensitive skin like me to have natural options that are safe for using on their skin and affordable.
On April 15th 2025, two days after my eighteenth birthday, I was able to launch my business, Clear Reflection Soaps. Mostly my business has gained new customers through word of mouth and social media. I appreciate all of the people that have helped me to get where I am. My family has been so supportive and helpful even when I questioned if starting a business was a bad idea. I appreciate everyone that has bought soap and supported my small business, because without their support I wouldn’t be where I am now.
One of my best sellers has been a coffee turmeric face bar. It does not smell like coffee due to the coffee smell not being able to survive saponification. (Saponification is when the oils and lye have been mixed together and it goes through the chemical reaction that turns it into soap.)
Local graduate earns national recognition
Taylor Billman, 2023 Soda Springs High School Graduate and Cardinal athlete, earned recognition for her academic performance as a student-athlete at Colorado Northwestern Community College in Rangely, Colorado. As a student-athlete participating in the National Junior College Athletic Association Region 18 conference, Taylor earned NJCAA 2024-2025 First Team All-Academic Award honors for her classroom performance. The NJCAA recognizes student athletes in three teams based on GPA. First team honors are awarded to athletes that complete a minimum of 24 credits in the year and maintain a 4.0 GPA. Second team is 3.80-3.99, and third team is 3.60-3.79. Taylor was one of three active athletes from Idaho in Region 18 to receive the First Team Award, the only sophomore in her college to receive first team honors, and appreciates being validated for all her studying in hotel rooms and van rides to basketball games all over the region. In addition to Taylor’s first team award, she was accepted into the Phi Theta Kappa junior college honor society for her academic success. She expressed her gratitude for her academic tutor for helping her learn study habits, how to learn for something other than a test, and time management skills so that being a student-athlete at the collegiate level wasn’t as overwhelming! Taylor also excelled on the basketball court taking her defensive mindset into games, leading the Region 18 conference in steals per game while shooting 36% from the 3 point line, chipping in 9.1 points per game, 3.8 rebounds per game, and doing whatever she could to help her young team learn and grow. She renewed her point guard skills from her days as a Cardinal, and found herself playing multiple positions throughout the basketball season. Plagued by chronic pain and health issues during her entire prep and collegiate playing career, Taylor will undergo surgical treatment to fix a rare vascular condition she has faced her entire life, which was just recently discovered through intensive medical research
from her mentor. With an average of more than 50% of her blood supply flow constricted below her chest, Taylor’s body has been redirecting essential blood supply from her digestive organs in order to support her muscles during basketball activities, and it also has impacted her ability to recover from games and elite training due to the digestive compromise her body makes to play. In order for her body to continue forward with elite training and competition and so she can play without excruciating pain, she is on a medical year of absence from college basketball. Taylor’s all-around style of play from her sophomore season excited numerous coaches in the NAIA and NCAA D2 divisions, and Taylor holds offers from schools from Kansas to Hawai’i and many in between to play following her medical leave this season. Taylor is currently an academic senior at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado, pursuing her degree in Exercise Science, with a pre-physical therapy emphasis. Taylor plans on attending graduate school to obtain a master’s degree in Athletic Training and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in the hopes of working in pediatric, sensory, and aquatic physical therapy upon graduation.
PET CORNER
The staff at Soda Springs Animal Clinic at 611 Highway 30 are always here to help you and your animal friends.
Soda Springs Animal Clinic
Happy Halloween to you and all your furry friends! While this time of year is known for treats, we at Soda Springs Animal Clinic hope you won’t allow any of those treats to play tricks on your dogs and cats. Chocolate can be deadly in high enough doses due to its theobromine and caffeine content. The amount of these toxic principals varies greatly based on the type of chocolate, with white chocolate and milk chocolate having far less than dark semisweet, and cocoa powder. Keeping dogs and cats out of the candy jar can be a challenge, especially with food motivated individuals, but it is important to know the risks if ingestion occurs. At lower doses, chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Midrange doses are toxic to the heart, leading to an elevated heart rate and arrhythmias. At high doses, seizures can occur and death is possible. For milk chocolates, just 1 ounce per body weight can be lethal to dogs.
The artificial sweetener xylitol is also contained in many sweet treats and is highly toxic as well. It is found more and more commonly in types of gum, sugar free candies, certain types of peanut butter, and many other items. Xylitol causes a massive release of insulin when it hits the bloodstream, causing glucose, the only type of sugar that can feed the brain, to be rapidly sucked into cells away from the brain. Clinically, this will look like lethargy, weakness, a stumbling, “drunken” walk, seizures, and even coma.
Doses of only 45 mg per pound of body weight can lead to low blood sugar, while higher doses of greater than 227 mg per pound can lead to liver failure. If either of these substances are consumed by your furry friend, please give Soda Springs Animal Clinic a call. A doctor is available 24/7 to help take care of those who matter most.
Lydia
with one of her home-
soap
Taylor Billman is up to whatever challenges confront her, on the court and off.
Mike AckermanBancroft City Council
My name is Mike Ackerman and I am running as a write-in candidate for City Council for Bancroft. I withdrew from the mayoral race because there is quality candidates on the ballot for mayor. If elected to City Council, I feel that I can assist with the positive growth of the community.
I graduated from North Gem High School in 1982. I moved back to Bancroft in 2020 after many years in the Chandler, Arizona area. I moved back home because I love this little town.
Since moving back, I have tried to make the living experience in Bancroft more memorable for residents. My thoughts are that if people enjoy the town they grow up or reside in, they may return and be contributing citizens if and when life allows. I have witnessed this by many alumni of North Gem High School.
The City of Bancroft’s infrastructure is crumbling and unless some economic possibilities are introduced to the community, the town is destined for demise. Streets, schools, utilities including water and sewage need to be addressed. Bancroft needs solutions instead of band-aids for these issues.
The location of Bancroft lends itself to possibilities of creating the
Letter of Support for Joe Perry –Mayor candidate for City of Bancroft
My name is Mike Ackerman, writein candidate for Bancroft City Council. I support Joe Perry for election to the position of Mayor for Bancroft. Joe and I have discussed in detail what the needs are for the City of Bancroft. Before I withdrew from
means of becoming a day destination for tourists and visitors. With the right mayor and council members in office, a comprehensive plan can be initiated to promote Bancroft as a day destination city that can help build and sustain economic growth so the City can survive.
I have stayed out of local politics and it is now time to jump in with some outside the box thinking instead of the business-as-usual approach.
Please write-in Mike Ackerman for Bancroft City Council on November 4. Thank you.
Robert Lau – Soda Springs Mayor
A Vision for a Stronger, More Connected Community
Robert Lau is a fifth-generation resident of Soda Springs. “I am running for Mayor because I believe in the power of our community. I know that together, we can build a n even stronger future for Soda.” He sees Soda Springs not just as a beautiful place to live but as home—a place worth investing in and strengthening for future generations.
Developing Community Capacity
A cornerstone of Lau’s plan is enhancing the capacity of City government so it remains agile and accountable to citizens. “I’m committed to leading with transparency, collaborating on ideas and making smart, community-driven improvements,” he says.
That means creating open channels for public input, ensuring citizens have a voice in decisions affecting city priorities and properties. Lau plans to form three advisory groups—the Civic Leadership Council, the Mayor’s Youth Council and the Citizens Development Council—bringing diverse perspectives together. This ensures better decisions and greater use of local talent and expertise.
poses recruiting businesses that appreciate Soda Springs’ unique heritage and scenic surroundings, while strengthening existing small businesses so they can expand and create jobs. He wants to ensure that young people have meaningful career opportunities here instead of feeling they must leave to succeed. He also emphasizes the importance of community events and local attractions, boosting civic pride and economic activity. “Over the last decade I’ve been part of bringing events to our community,” Lau notes. “As a City we will support and help organize more community events, festivals and recreational opportunities to bring neighbors together, create memories and bring economic impact to our town.”
the mayoral race, I detailed what my agenda was and Joe’s thoughts align with mine as far as the direction the City needs to progress towards.
Please vote Joe Perry for Mayor and Mike Ackerman as write-in candidate for Bancroft City Council on Tuesday, November 4.
America250 essay contest open to students LETTER TO THE EDITOR
In 2026, the country will celebrate 250 years from the signing of the Declaration of Independence. America250 is the name for the large, national semiquincentennial (it’s a mouthful!) bipartisan celebration of the event.
As part of that celebration, America250 is kicking off its nationwide student contest, “America’s Field Trip,” for the 2025-2026 school year. Now in its third year, America’s Field Trip is expanding significantly as part of the lead-up to the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
America’s Field Trip invites students in grades 3–12 from across the United States to answer the question, “What does America mean to you?” through original writing or artwork. For the first time, a total of 250 awardees will be selected—nearly double the 150 prizes awarded in the previous contest—giving even more students the opportunity to experience unforgettable field trips to some of the country’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks this summer. The 125 first-place awardees will enjoy an expanded slate of destinations, with several new and exciting sites added for 2026.
Each first-place awardee will select one of the following specially-curated experiences:
Explore the all-new National Medal of Honor Museum, plus a VIP experience at the George W. Bush Presidential Center and Library in Dallas, Texas
A captivating adventure through history, culture, and cuisine in New Orleans, Louisiana
Visit the Coca-Cola Company’s headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia
Private guided tour and meet a retired astronaut at Kennedy Space Center in Florida
Exclusive visits to two iconic Washington, DC, institutions: a special tour of the White House and a trip inside the vault of the National Archives on the National Mall
Exclusive guided journey through Yellowstone National Park in Montana and Wyoming
Exclusive visit to the 9/11 Memori-
al & Museum, walking tour of historic Lower Manhattan, and a performance and opportunity to meet the company of HAMILTON in New York City
Discover Boston’s Revolutionary War landmarks — from Bunker Hill to Dorchester Heights and the Boston Harbor Private tours of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, the International African American Museum, and the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston, South Carolina
Beyond the ropes tour of Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Storytelling, history, and commemoration under the stars at Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota
Behind the scenes tour of the brand new National Geographic Museum of Exploration and Smithsonian Sleepover at American History in Washington, DC
Exclusive curator-led experiences at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC and George Washington’s Mount Vernon in Virginia
Immersive Revolutionary War experience at the American Village in Alabama
The full list and descriptions of 2026 Field Trips are available at https://america250.org/fieldtrip/ field-trip-destinations-2026/
“This is the moment we’ve been building toward,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “As we approach the nation’s 250th birthday, America’s Field Trip offers students not just a way to reflect on our country’s history—but to be part of it. Expanding the contest to 250 award recipients makes that opportunity real for even more young people across the country.”
The 2025-2026 edition of the program will recognize 125 second-place awardees with a $500 cash award. The previous contest drew thousands of submissions from students in all 50 states, D.C., and five U.S. territories. One parent who accompanied their 11th grade student on a trip to Texas last summer shared, “[It] gave us the chance to see history come alive and connect with the values that shape our nation.”
He also stresses development for city employees, fostering a culture of teamwork and excellence in public service. His administration will establish a comprehensive infrastructure plan to maintain city infrastructure. This plan will be online for citizens to regularly review and provide feedback. Beyond City Council meetings, Lau commits to quarterly Meet the Mayor sessions. This commitment to transparency, collaboration and accountability will help city government serve as a catalyst for progress.
Strengthening Citizen Engagement
One of Lau’s top priorities is building the first phase of a long-awaited community center—a welcoming space where residents of all ages can gather, learn, play and connect, embodying his belief that Soda Springs grows stronger when people come together.
The community center will provide flexible spaces for youth programs, adult education, and cultural and recreational events. It will serve as a hub for connection and collaboration—a physical reminder that Soda Springs values relationships as much as infrastructure. Lau envisions the center as a spark for future growth.
“This campaign is about all of us,” Lau says. “It’s about strengthening the city we’re proud to call home—not just today, but for generations to come. By collaborating and working together, we can accomplish goals that many think are impossible.”
Expanding Economic Development
Lau places economic development at the center of his vision for a stronger community, focusing on creating opportunities for local families, businesses and youth so people can stay and thrive in Soda Springs.
To bring that vision to life, Lau pro-
How to Participate in America’s Field Trip
Students must create their submissions independently, with entries submitted by a teacher, parent, or legal guardian. Each grade level will respond to the same question: “What does America mean to you?”
Students, families, and educators can find submission guidelines, contest rules, FAQs, and classroom resources at america250.org/FieldTrip. The contest has different submission requirements for each grade band and is available to any student in elementary school (third to fifth grade), middle school (sixth to eighth grade), and high school (ninth to twelfth grade). The contest begins accepting submissions on October 15, 2025 and will remain open until 5:00 PM PT/8:00 PM ET on March 30, 2026. First- and second-place award recipients will be announced in May 2026, and field trips will occur in July and August 2026. Educators are also encouraged to help spread the word. The three teachers associated with the top-scoring student entries in each grade band will each receive a $1,000 cash award in recognition of their support.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest ends 5:00 p.m. PT/8:00 p.m. ET on 3/30/26. Open
By growing the economy this way, Lau believes Soda Springs can expand its tax base, strengthen small business vitality and ease the financial burden on residents—all while preserving the town’s small-town charm and community spirit.
Being Soda Strong
At the heart of Lau’s campaign is the rallying call to be “SodaStrong.” He invites citizens to be active participants in shaping the city’s future. Lau believes that real progress comes from unity, shared effort and collaboration. He calls on residents to volunteer, support local businesses and take part in civic discussions. Citizens working together will have a massive impact, creating activities to engage and building our community center.
To Lau, being SodaStrong means standing together, supporting one another and believing in what our community can accomplish.
Robert’s vision for Soda Springs is rooted in respect for the past and optimism for the future. His focus on economic growth, capable city leadership and a new community center reflects a practical yet inspiring plan for progress. His message goes beyond policies—it’s an invitation for everyone to help build the future together.
“When we unite as neighbors, invest in one another, and take pride in our hometown, we embody the very spirit that makes Soda Springs special.”
Election Day: November 4, 2025 Vote Robert Lau for Mayor of Soda Springs
to U.S. students (3rd – 12th grade); student’s parent/legal guardian or teacher with parental permission must submit entry on student’s behalf (unless student is the age of majority). Submission includes grant of license rights to entry’s content. First Prize awardees must travel with parent/legal guardian on designated dates. See https://america250.org/fieldtrip/rules for full details including how to enter, eligibility requirements, prize description/restrictions and judging procedure. Void where prohibited.
About America250
America250’s mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America’s Semiquincentennial. We aim to inspire our fellow Americans to reflect on our past, strengthen our love of country, and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America.
War on Weeds—weeds are everybody’s problem
THE ISSUE: Common teasel
Common teasel (Dipsacus fullonum) is a biennial weed native to Europe and Northern Africa. It was originally introduced into the U.S. in the 1700’s. It invades rights-of-way, pastures, riparian areas, and Ag. lands. It is capable of forming dense stands that reduce forage quality for livestock. It has iconic seed heads that are commonly used in floral arrangements.
After germinating common teasel spends its first year in the rosette stage. During the second year it bolts, sending up flowering stalks. Rosette leaves are crinkled with scalloped edges and a pale mid-rib. Stem leaves are smaller and have short spines on the mid-rib on the underside of the leaves. Lower stem leaves will fuse together, forming a bowl to catch rainwater. Stems can grow 1.5 to 6.5 ft tall. Light purple to white flowers are formed on spiny egg-shaped heads. As seed is set plants die, but they often stay standing into the following year. Each seed head contains 250 to 1,500 seeds. A single plant can produce up to 34,000 seeds per year.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Options:
• Prevention— Learn to identify this plant. Clean equipment after leaving infested areas. Plant clean seed.
• Mechanical— Hand digging can be effective on small infestations. Mowing can be effective when done before flowering occurs.
• Cultural— Establish healthy stands of beneficial plants that can compete for essential resources.
Bazaar
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the many people, including those representing a number of other faiths.
Last year, Kukachka noted that “The 5th ward supplied some of the pies and potatoes, the Bishop’s wife made baby quilts, and lots of people of various faiths, or having no religious leanings, showed up.”
The event used to be called the Presbyterian Women Annual Harvest Bazaar, but was updated several years ago to reflect the efforts of the men involved in the preparations. In similar fashion, the volunteers included members from all around the community.
In addition to the food, a lot of impressive and interesting items will be up for auction and sale, including crafts and baked goods and candy. A quilt raffle and silent auction will be held during the event. Quilt raffle tickets are 1 for $1, or 6 for $5. Dinner itself is open to everyone, with a “free-will offering” encouraged.
Last year, organizers reported that they served about 380 meals, over 2/3 of which were take-outs. Volunteers in the kitchen kept up a consistent hum of activity all morning, as food orders were packed up and shipped out or sent off with the hundreds who availed themselves of the feast.
In the past, the organizers have used donations raised at the bazaar to help with some very ambitious projects, including the wells in Ghana Partey came to Soda Springs to speak about. For the cost of around $8,000 U.S. dollars, the Ghanan village was able to repair one of the well structures that had a cracked base, and begin work on an additional fourth well.
The wells have gone approximately 100 meters deep to hit water. The wells run off electricity from a nearby hydroelectric dam on the Volta River. Partey is an environmental resource manager with KGM Industries, and has the skills needed to make sure that the project is well managed. Samples of the water are taken to ensure that they there are not any problems with the supplies. Most of the oversight involves maintaining the basic equipment. Repairs are relatively simple in some ways, but the cost can be overwhelming for the villagers, which is where the donations can be a major help.
The project, as it was originally con-
• Chemical—Common teasel is best controlled at the rosette stage when actively growing. There are a number of herbicide active ingredients that can help to control common teasel, including: 2,4-D amine, 2,4-D amine + Dicamba (Rifle-D and others), Aminocyclopyrachlor +Chlorsulfuron (Perspective), Chlorsulfuron (Telar), Diflufenzopyr + Dicamba (Overdrive),Imazapic (Plateau), Metsulfuron (Escort and others), and Triclopyr + Clopyralid (Redeem R&P). Always read and follow herbicide label directions!
Justin Hatch, University of Idaho Extension Agriculture Educator in Caribou County. 208-547-3205
JLHatch@uidaho.edu
ceived, will hopefully ultimately expand to provide access to viable drinking water wells along a route of villages that are in need of them. Access to clean water is one of the most critical requirements for sustainability and health. Waterborne diseases can wreak devastation on remote populations, and maintained wells are a major means of controlling water quality. In addition to health concerns, the amount of time saved by being able to access water sources within quick walking distance is significant. The safety of the process is also improved.
The yearly success of the Bazaar is a testament to the generosity and spirit of giving among Caribou County residents, but also a reminder that everyone regardless of their place in life or the community has an innate need to gather and spend time among friends, especially as the days grow colder and darker on the calendar path to Christmas, and the season of lights.
Partey ended his presentation by showing the group pictures of his children. His son, who was in fifth grade at the time he first came to Soda Springs, is now in college. “I have to say thank you to this church,” Partey said. “You have done so much for people you haven’t even met. You are always welcome to visit Accra [in Ghana] any time you wish. I go once a year and you are always welcome to go with me! Thank you and god bless you all.”
For take out information or orders, call (208) 547-3771.
Safety
continued from front page
any major deviations from the state. This comes on the brink of the Highway 30 project, which is scheduled to begin soon on the same stretch of highway involved in the accident. City engineer Alan Skinner noted that the city was trying to schedule a public input meeting for December or January to talk about community concerns as they approach the project.
Councilmember Paul Gritton said that he contacted an ITD district engineer, who he will be communicating with about the issue.
Savanah Heslop, the mother of the accident victim, then spoke to the council. “At 3:23 on Oct 3. My daughter’s friend called and said that my daughter just got hit by a truck. They aren’t even supposed to be there, because I’ve been so scared that something would happen. I’m not mad at the city either, I keep calling the state, but I get the runaround and don’t know what to do. It is a very dangerous road, and I know having them change the speed limit is not feasible, but if you guys can use your push, I will do what I can.”
Savanah and Christensen shared that they had gotten to know one another after the accident, with Christensen becoming an advocate for safety on that stretch of road as a result. The two presented a united front in their address to the council.
The city has in the past discussed the need to make the road safer on a number of occasions, but because Highway 30 is administrated by the State of Idaho, they have not been able to do anything in that regard. As the Highway project moves forward, the city will hold public information meetings in conjunction with ITD, and citizens with concerns about the roadway and other issues will be encouraged to make their feelings known.
Citizen Input
The City Council allows for two sessions of public input during its meetings. Regular meetings are on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 5:00 p.m. The Public Input session allows community members to address the council about whatever issues they have an interest in discussing. The time is often used by council members and city staff to discuss minor issues that are not on the agenda.
Councilmember Paul Gritton, for instance, took the opportunity to discuss the Geyser visitor center. The flooring in the center was updated and replaced for this year, and the facility is looking better than it has in years. Gritton would like to put a visitor sign-in book in the geyser visitor center to keep track of who visits and where from. The council and mayor thought it was a good idea and will move forward with it.
Gritton also encouraged any local businesses to put their brochures in the kiosk. Over the course of the summer, hundreds of brochures are taken from the kiosk by touring groups. The location is a public site for disseminating information about local businesses, sites, and activities.
Alan Skinner—Projects
The trail system grant for completing a walking trail from Bailey Creek to Second Bridge was discussed. The budget includes $124K for the base of the trail for sand, putting it in, etc. 4K tons were committed for $54K. Prep work is estimated at $10.7K with $42.5K left for moving the sand. Skinner says that the gavel sand exchange works out to 4.50 a ton.
This is for the trail that would parallel Baily Creek and Second bridge. There is a three year window to finish it, so the city is getting some pressure to start spending it down. There will be over 500 trees put up for the project. The city would then be obligated to maintain the trees.
Councilmember Gritton did have concerns about the longterm cost of the trees, and the level of knowledge of the city crew with regard to trees.
Councilmember Carpenter stated that he thought the benefits outweigh the problems. “Trees make cities,” he said. “It balances out the scales, anyway. And we will have
some labor the first year. We’ll probably find some areas where we probably don’t want to replace the trees.”
Alan Skinner said that there was a spot over on Hooper where they kept replanting but they kept dying.
Main Street Bore is putting in pipe under the train tracks on Main. The crew’s plan is to be at the south endpoint at noon tomorrow. Further discussion of the Enders rental contract was held. A $500 security deposit was suggested. Clerk Andrea Haderlie suggested keeping it simple in order to make it less of a hassle. The idea is that the users will be responsible to clean it, or they will forfeit their deposit. Right now, the SSPD is checking the building every day, and could do so after events to verify deposit.
Some minor changes will be made, and the document will be ready for next week.
SSPD
An emergency vehicle instructor was certified within the department. The officer is the only qualified instructor in the area.
SSPD commented on crosswalk in question earlier, and noted that the state said they had some options, but nothing great. According to SSPD, there had never been a pedestrian vs vehicle accident at that intersection as far as they knew. BUT, they do have a lot of near misses. “We’ve had more collisions in the last 4-5 years than we’ve ever had. It’s distracted driving.”
Dan Squires—Fire and Water Fire Department had one small fire recently that was extinguished without incident.
The department has recently serviced all the trucks. Everything has been serviced. The fire department does not clean chimneys, because it is a task with a lot of liability. But Squires does recommend that people with chimneys get them cleaned for the season. There have not been a lot of chimney fires in the last several years.
Generator load testing at the transfer station and pump have been done successfully.
Jeff Young–City Crew
A question about the lilac bushes on the Caribou Loop trail was raised. They were reported to be in bad shape. He wondered whether they should come out.
Jessica Thurman--Rec Thurman reported that Volleyball is over and that it went really well. “The girls were awesome.”
Basketball registration is going on. They will start on the 8th which will mean that games will still be going on after Thanksgiving.
The ice rink was delivered on 7 pallets, weighing 4K pounds. Thurman thanked the city crew for delivering it. “It says it’s a 60 minute rink—I guarantee you it will take longer than that,” Thurman said. She hosted a meeting last week, at which the project of installing the rink was discussed, as well as possibly moving a porta potty out there. The park bathroom is closed for the season, and far away from the rink.
Thurman explained the origin of the Canadian insult “hoser,” which refers to the losing team that has to hose down the ice after a game.
The sled hill looks great for this year. “Whatever I need to do with sled hill, I’ll do,” Thurman asserted.
ICRMP Board of trustees
The city nominated Pocatello mayor Brian Blad to serve on the board.
Irene Torgesen
She has been noticing the kids running across the crosswalk to Hooper near Kelly Park. She has noticed a couple almost be hit by cars. She thinks there should also be a crosswalk in that area. She has observed it all summer. “If you could consider it, that would be appreciated.”
RW says that there should be some code enforcement checks for trees.
Jeff Young has noted them and they have sent out notices.
This brochure rack hangs just inside the door to the Geyser visitor building/restroom. As was noted at the last city council meeting, there are plenty of open spaces for anyone who has material about local businesses they would like to distribute. The visitor center sees a steady stream of traffic throughout the summer, which is why the racks are now mostly empty.
Photo courtesy of Steve Dewey, Utah State university, Bugwood.org
Frederick Partey spoke with members of the Presbyterian church in Soda Springs on Sunday.
Fixing cattle markets
BY ALLISON ELIASON
Beef producers have always lived by the philosophy of enjoying the prices while they are high, because they will always find a way back down. Most often it has been the market correcting itself after peaking at an unsustainable level, but recently the US government has indicated its intent to manipulate the market to drop beef prices.
October 16, President Trump commented that his administration was working to “bring beef prices down,” that “prices were higher than we want them...” Just days later, he informally announced that they would be importing beef from Argentina, hoping the competing international beef at lower prices would incite a drop in beef market prices.
It didn’t take long for the markets to reflect the sentiments of the president’s comments, the prices for a number of cattle weights dropping before the weekend was over. Of course, it could have been a natural drop as prices usually begin to dip come fall but the timing can’t be coincidental. These comments have landed poorly on cattle producers for a number of reasons and they hope that in the end, US beef will rise to the challenge.
The cattle markets have always fluctuated, reflecting the size of the national cattle herd, the effects of drought, input costs and the like. Ranchers and cattlemen have navigated the waves with success, taking both the risks and rewards that come with the gamble of raising cattle.
In some regards, the fluctuations are almost consistent, marked in ways that producers can anticipate and prepare for. I can’t help but wonder if they can similarly handle a sudden, fabricated drop in prices.
The high market prices have been a pleasant surprise for beef produc-
ers as they have watched it continue to trend upward to all new highs, a relief to combat the high interest rates and increasing input costs. Finally selling their cattle at a profit, they have had a little comfort where their pocketbook is concerned.
Interestingly enough, the price producers sell their calves at really has little to do with the final price at the grocery store. Yes, everyone down the food chain has to make their buck so it would seem it all begins at the initial selling point but the reality is that the consumer is the driving force for the actual price at the supermarket. The demand for high quality beef, a lean protein filled with essential nutrients coupled with a mouthwatering savory flavor, is as high as it has ever been because consumers recognize its value and are willing to pay for it.
Since President Trump’s comments, producers and advocates alike are crying out that the market manipulation is unnecessary and putting US producers at a further disadvantage. U.S. Cattlemen’s Association quickly issued a statement saying, “Increasing imports under current rules ultimately benefits foreign suppliers and multinational packers, while putting U.S. ranchers on the losing end and depriving American consumers of honest transparency at the meat counter.
“USCA supports affordable food prices for American families. But we do oppose policies or loopholes that manipulate the market to address a solution that will be solved through natural market behavior. This approach weakens our industry’s foundation and undermines rural America.”
Zippy Duvall, president of the American Farm Bureau Federation commented, “We know America’s families face challenges when food prices rise, but it’s important
BRAIN TEASERS
for President Trump to remember that farmers are facing an economic storm as well, and a vibrant U.S. cattle herd is at stake. Weakened cattle prices are the last thing needed in farm country, where farmers are being paid historically low prices for crops across the board while expenses remain high.”
“Lowering beef prices for consumers starts with restoring fairness in the marketplace, not by importing beef from Argentina and undercutting American ranchers,” stated National Farmer’s Union President Rob Larew. “Years of drought, depressed cattle prices, and unchecked corporate consolidation have already pushed many family farmers and ranchers to the brink, all while consumers pay more at the grocery store.
The scenario of importing beef raises a number of questions. Firstare there alternative reasons that President Trump is looking to supplement US beef with Argentinian products? Is this a diplomatic trade tactic that hurts producers in an attempt to strengthen foreign ties?
Second- will the ploy actually reduce consumer prices like the administration hopes or will it only serve to limit US producers take-home? It is possible that the imports may not meaningfully lower retail beef prices as the president expects because the US market is so large and imports from Argentina are comparably quite small. Experts calculate that a reasonable expectation of Argentinian
exports to be 20,000 tons in contrast to the approximately 12 million tons domestically produced in the US, a drop in the bucket in comparison.
Questions of marketing, labelling, and transparency are swirling around as producers look for a way to stand apart from their international competitors where their products hit the shelves. Will Country Of Origin Labeling (COOL) finally be instituted? Will international beef be fairly marketed in comparison to US beef?
Finally, will this only impact cattle producers or will the lowering market affect the packers? For years, ranchers have pointed out that prices at the grocery store don’t reflect what they earn. They argue that the supply chain—dominated by four major packers—captures most of the margin, not the cow-calf or feedlot sector. Importing beef doesn’t solve that imbalance, it perpetuates it. In fact, the recent proposal could depress cattle prices by widening packers’ supply options while leaving producers squeezed.
President Trump’s informal announcement to bring in Argentine beef to lower retail prices was truly a devastating blow to producers. While he might consider it a win to lower prices like they “brought down oil” is hardly showing support to those farmers and ranchers that feed this country. Cattle producers have always taken pride in the work they do. If the administration is forcing a fix, they should be sure to make it a fair fix, not a foreign one.
EVENT CALENDARS
SODA SPRINGS CARIBOU COUNTY
Friday, October 24th
HS FB Vs Aberdeen
Saturday, October 25th
HS VB Districts
Sunday, October 26th
Presbyterian Services
Caribou Bible Church Services
Catholic Mass (8:30am)
Open Arms Church Services
LDS Services
Hope Lutheran Church
Monday, October 27th
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
Commissioner Meeting (9am)
Wednesday, October 29th
Caribou County Senior Dinner
Pinochle @ The Senior Center
Catholic Daily Mass (9am)
Children Story Time @ Library
10:30am or 11:30am
IDAN-HA Movie
Thursday, October 30th
Early Release @1:30 pm
Teacher Workday/Inservice
HS VB State Tournament
GRACE
Friday, October 24th
HS FB HOME Vs Butte County
4:00/7:00 *Senior Night*
Saturday, October 25th
HS VB Play In Game
Sunday, October 26th
LDS Services
Monday, October 27th
Preschool Story Hour @ Library
10:30am
PTO Red Ribbon Week
Tuesday, October 28th
PTO Red Ribbon Week
Wednesday, October 29th
PTO Red Ribbon Week PTO Carnival
Thursday, October 30th No School Elementary (P/T Conferences)
State VB (Post Falls)
BANCROFT
Friday, October 24th
MS FB w/Rockland
HS FB w/Rockland
Sunday, October 26th
LDS Services
Monday, October 27th Booster Club Meeting
ON THIS DAY
1814
One of the first modern plastic surgeries in the west performed by Joseph Carpue on a soldier’s nose in England using Indian techniques
1850 First US National Women’s Right convention opens in Brinley Hall, Worcester, Massachusetts
1910 Blanche Scott becomes the first woman to fly at a public event in the US at Fort Wayne Indiana
1923 US patent is issued to American inventor Sebastian Hinton for playground climbing structure popularly known as ‘monkey bars’
1941 Walt Disney’s animated film “Dumbo” released
1975 English rock star Elton John receives a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
1977 Paleontologist Elso Bar-
ghoorn announces the discovery of a 3.4 billion-year-old single-celled fossil, one of the earliest life forms on Earth
2001 Apple releases the iPod
2012 “Skyfall”, 23rd James Bond film, directed by Sam Mendes and starring Daniel Craig and Javier Bardem premieres in London
2015 Adele releases her single “Hello”, becomes the first song with more than a million downloads in its first week
2018 Freddie Mercury bio film “Bohemian Rhapsody” directed by Bryan Singer, starring Rami Malek (Best Actor Academy Awards 2019) premieres in London
2018 World’s oldest intact shipwreck, ancient Greek vessel 2,400 years old, found at bottom of the Black Sea by archaeologists
LUNCH MENUS
SODA SPRINGS LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Fruit, Veggies & Milk
Monday, October 27
Chicken burger, fries, fruit, veggies, and milk
Tuesday, October 28
Nacho supreme, fruits, veggies, and milk
Wednesday, October 29
French toast sticks, sausage patty, fruit, veggie, milk
Thursday, October 30
Hot dog, pork and beans, fruit, veggies, and milk
NORTH GEM LUNCH MENU
Milk and Choice of Bar Each Day
Monday, October 27
Pizza Kits, Shepherd’s Pie w/Roll, Deli Bar, Green Beans/Apricots
Tuesday, October 28
Chicken Philly Sandwich, Deli Bar, Roasted Carrots, Tropical Fruit Salad
Wednesday, October 29
Chicken Bowls, Deli Bar, Corn, Fresh Orange Slices
Thursday, October 30
Trick or Treat Lunch Elem., Mummy Dogs HS/MS, Deli Bar/Baked Beans, Pumpkin Pie Applesauce
GRACE LUNCH MENU
Lunches served with Milk
Monday, October 27
CHICKEN ALFREDO, FOOD CHOICES: Green Salad, Mandarin Oranges
Tuesday, October 28
PEPPERONI CHEESE BREAD, FOOD CHOICES: Corn, Peaches
Wednesday, October 29
MUMMY WRAP, FOOD CHOICES: Spooky Veggies, Slime, Ghost Juice or Muddy Water
Thursday, October 30
NO SCHOOLELEMENTARY, PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCE
CARIBOU COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS' MENU
Every meal served with Juice/Milk/Coffee
Oct 24 - French Dip Sandwiches, Broccoli Salad, Orange, Brownies
Oct 29 - Baked Cod, Confetti Rice, Cauliflower, Dilly Bread, Cooks Choice
*Birthday Cake and Ice Cream is served in-house only!
BIRTHDAYS
Craig Boswell, Oct. 1
ValDean Moore, Oct. 1
Charlotte Skinner, Oct. 1
Bonnie Skinner, Oct. 2
Jackie Gessford, Oct. 2
Marjean Duren, Oct. 3
Ann Mendenhall, Oct. 5
Ruth Ann Rasmussen, Oct 6
Tristan Pfeffer, Oct. 8
Sharon Berg, Oct. 12
Rosalie Lemons, Oct. 12
Jeanie Lloyd, Oct. 12
Debbie Rigby, Oct. 17
Kelly Holt, Oct. 18
Charles Prahl, Oct. 19
Connie Lakey, Oct. 20
Erin Olsen, Oct. 20
Chalice Call, Oct. 24
Connie Parker, Oct. 25
Lynne Weaver, Oct. 26
Julie Hook, Oct. 27
Happy Halloween, Oct 31
If you would like to add yourself, your kids, loved one, friend or family member to our weekly birthday list, contact Sherrie at 208-766-4773 or email sherrie.w@idahoenterprise.com
LOOKING BACK AT PAGES FROM THE PAST
The following stories are summarized from past issues of the Caribou County Sun over the last fifty plus years. The Enterprise thanks Mark Steele for permission to use the contents, and the Grace Public Library for access to the archives.
2020
Extended periods of quarantine result in depression and fear of the coronavirus, and have a negative psychological effect on people, according to a recent University of Idaho study. Clarissa Richardson, an assistant professor or psychology at U of I’s Department of Psychology and Communication Students, said a series of surveys conducted on a pool of 300 participants nationwide to determine the psychological effects of the coronavirus pandemic showed that people who reported high levels of quarantine also reported higher levels of depression and in some cases PTSD symptoms. In addition, surveys showed that political affiliations can predict whether people adopt precautionary measures to prevent spreading coronavirus. “Fear surrounding COVID-19 largely predicted negative psychological health as was significantly correlated with PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and stress,” Richardson said. “Yet, those with higher fear also were more likely to engage in precautionary behaviors than those with lower fear.”
The annual food drive which provides supplies for the Caribou County Food Bank, will not be held this year, due to the Covid virus. The food bank continues to be open on Wednesdays. Currently, patrons may provide a list or tell one of the volunteers what supplies they need, and their orders will be filled as they wait outside. Many individuals, groups, and businesses, have been concerned about those in need at this time. They have been most generous and have kept the food bank well stocked, despite the impact of the Covid virus. A food drive is tentatively planned for next spring, if the situation improves sufficiently. Although supplies are holding up well, those who wish to help out at this time may leave donations with Sarina Avila, Director of the Soda Springs SEICAA office, located in the red metal building to the rear of the city police offices. Any checks should be made out to Caribou County Food Bank, with a memo note of SEICAA.
This election season, the Idaho Debates on Idaho Public Television is temporarily shifting formats. Known for hosting live, in-person debates in the past, this election season, due to Covid-19, the Idaho Debates will be comprised of pre-recorded Q & A sessions with the candidates conducted via video teleconference. Candidates for Idaho Congressional District 1, Congressional District 2, and U.S. Senate have been invited to participate. Each candidate will be asked the same questions on issues relevant to their congressional or senate race. Those answers will be edited together to give voters a clear picture of where the candidates stand.
Forty cities and counties, including the City of Soda Springs, will participate in Governor Brad Little’s $124 million plan that uses federal coronavirus relief funds to cover local public safety personnel salaries and gives cities and counties the opportunity to pass on the savings to property taxpayers. Last week was the deadline for cities and counties to formally opt in to the Public Safety Initiative, which ultimately provides Idaho property taxpayers in participating cities or counties a 10 to 20 percent one-time reduction in their property taxes this year. The U.S. Treasury Department guidance gives the Governor discretion to determine expenditures that are necessary due to the public health emergency. The program is a necessary and appropriate use of Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act funds, because it ensures public health and public safety budgets are funded, first responders have the resources necessary to fight COVID-19, and avoids layoffs and furloughs while passing downstream savings to taxpayers.
Nate Burr of Rexburg set a new state record by landing a remarkable 31 inch Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Burr and a fellow angler had been fly fishing the Snake River for three days
and looking for big trout without much success. As evening set in on the third day of slow fishing, their luck changed as a huge trout smashed Burr’s fly. Nate grew up in Tetonia and began his career as a fly-fishing guide at age 18. In recent years, he’s focused more on catching larger trout and less on catching big numbers of fish. “It was one of those brutally slow days,” Burr said. “Hunting big trout on streamers means a day on the water can go from zero to 100 in a split second. That was exactly the case with this fish.” After chasing the hooked trout for nearly half a mile downstream in a drift boat, the pair managed to finally scoop the fish with a landing net. After taking a quick photo and reviving the fish, Burr released the huge trout back into the Snake River, securing his name in the record books. Yellowstone Cutthroat trout over 30 inches are exceedingly rare, especially in river systems where they do not grow as quickly as in large lakes. Even more remarkable is that this fish just barely beats the 30.5 inch monster Yellowstone cutthroat trout record set in August by Sam Hix, also from the Snake River. The catch and release record program began in 2016 as a way to recognize anglers who wanted to release the trophy fish they caught back into the water.
Southeastern Idaho Public Health has confirmed the first death associated with with COID-19 in Caribou County on Oct. 1. The individual was a male in his 60s. Out of respect to these individuals’ families, no additional details will be released. This brings the total to 18 deaths due to COVID-19 in Southeast Idaho. 42 new cases were confirmed in the region—15 in Bannock county, 3 in Bear Lake county, 2 in Butte county, 9 in Bingham county, 2 in Butte county, 4 in Caribou County, and 9 in Franklin county. The total number of confirmed cases is now 3,193. Out of those cases, 2,547 have recovered.
1990
The Beehive girls from Grace 2nd ward met at the church to bake and package cookies to send to Eddie Cleaveland and his army regiment, who are now deployed in “Operation Desert Shield” in Saudi Arabia. Eddie’s parents, Sandra and Ben Cleaveland, reside in Thatcher. He is the only serviceman from Grace that has been sent so far, and is among the at least five men serving from Caribou County in the Persian Gulf. Roger Cheramie, the County Red Cross chairman, is hoping to be able to send more items to the men and women deployed in Saudi Arabia. He would like to have the following, non-perishable items brought to the Red Cross office in Soda Springs: Writing paper, envelopes, playing cards, travel games, hard candies, cocoa packets, light salt snack, peanut butter, unsalted pretzels, cookies (no chocolate chips), canned tuna and fruit, light socks, shower things, news and sports magazines, liquid hand soap, sun-blockers, Gatorade or kool-aid, and tooth paste. These can be either on an individual basis or through community and church groups. He is in the process of working with “Idaho Cares”—a continuing flow of needed items to be sent to the servicemen as long as they are deployed
to the Persian Gulf.
Derinda Barnes was congratulated by Kerr-McGee plant manager Robert Griffin, at an open house at Kerr-McGee, in Soda Springs, Friday, in honor of her retirement. In appreciation for her 23 years of service, Derinda was presented with a recliner by Griffin on behalf of the staff and management. Upon completion of the sale of her mobile home, Derinda will be relocating in Oregon.
Of the thirteen persons arrested and formally charged by the Soda Springs Police Department during August, eight were adults and five were juveniles under 18 years of age. Three of the juveniles were charged with grand theft, and two for grand theft, petty theft, and vandalism. The adults were charged with dogs running at large, resisting and interfering with a police investigation, battery, disturbing the peace. Four juvenile warnings were issued, three for vandalism and trespassing, and one for discharging a BB gun in the city limits. There were three traffic accidents with one injury recorded. The City of Soda Springs has not had a traffic fatality since 1976. Seventeen traffic citations were issued for speed, one for reckless driving, and one for failure to have vehicle insurance, for a total of 19 citations.
Airman Daniel J. Mortensen Jr. has graduated from Air Force basic training at Lackland Air Gorce Base in Texas. During the six weeks of training the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization and customs received special training in human relations. In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward and associate degree through the community college of the Air Force. He is the son of Shauna Bevins and stepson of Scott Bevins of Soda Springs. His father, Dan Mortensen, and stepmother, Jan Mortensen, reside in Fresno.
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Steffensen returned home Monday morning from a 17 day vacation on Oahu and Hawaii, with the first six days on Oahu won by Carol as a Christmas promotion for two at the Hobron Outrigger Hotel, from Thomson Jewelers. On Oahu they rented a car and visited Diamond Head, spent a day at the Polynesian Center and attended their luau, went to Sea Life Park, heard the legend of formation of the islands, saw killer whales, turtles and dolphins. They toured the Arizona at Pearl Harbor, went to the pineapple factory, Hilo Hatties, the sugar cane field and pineapple plantations, attended a session at the LDS temple, went to the Punchbowl Cemetery and Memorial, the Ioloni Palace—only palace in the United Stated, went in the Kaneana Cave, visited the Aquarium Waimea Falls, went to the Hanauma Bay for snorkeling, shopped at the International Market, hiked into Sacred Falls at the bottom of an 87 foot drop. They went to the Valley of the Temples and the Byodo-In-Temple, the Bishop museum, the Aloha Tower—a 10 story building formerly the highest in Oahu. While marlin fishing, Jerry caught a 175 pound marlin off the reef a mile from Kona.
September Soda Springs Junior High Students of the month are: Corinne Kator, a 12 year old 7th grader who likes reading, dancing, cross country skiing, and playing the piano.
Her favorite foods are spaghetti and pepperoni pizza. Corinne’s favorite colors are purple, pink, and turquoise, while her favorite class is art. She is the daughter of Kaye and Charles Kator. Corinne was chosen by her teachers because of her high academic achievement and positive behavior. Herbert Catausan is the next 7th grade student of the month. Herb is the son of Florinda and Pater Catausan. They moved here from Chicago. Herb’s favorite color is black, and he likes pizza and science. His hobbies are soccer and collecting baseball cards. The teachers selected Herb because of his good work ethic and his scholastic achievement.
Kasey Davis is our 8th grade girl selection. Her parents are Lonnie and Debra Gummersall. Kasey likes skiing, swimming, and riding bikes. Her favorite food is lasagna. She is 13 years old and turquoise is her favorite color. Kasey believes it is important to have a good education and do the best you can. Kasey was selected for her academic achievements, her smiling, bright personality, and good behavior. Jeremy Phelps is a real cowboy. His hobbies are roping and riding horses and steers and playing basketball. His favorite subject is technology. He likes the color black and pizza, but does not like black pizza. Jeremy is the son of Shauna and Preston Phelps. He was selected by his teachers for being a good influence, good work habits, and excelling in the classroom. Jeremy thinks it is important to treat each other with respect and to be fair with everyone.
Thursday, October 16 Friday, October 17 Saturday, October 18
Roofman (R)
A charismatic criminal, while on the run from the police, hides in a hidden space of a toy store. There, he adopts a new identity and becomes involved with an employee, beginning a relationship as unlikely as it is risky.
Thursday, Friday & Saturday 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Saturday Matinee 2:00 p.m. (All seats $5) 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Stitch Head (PG) Follows Stitch Head, a small creature awoken by a Mad Professor in a castle to protect the professor’s other creations from the townspeople of Grubbers Nubbin.
Wednesday, October 29
6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. (All seats $5)
208-547-3282
Senior Grizzly Brett Hobbs reaches the ball across the goal line for the first score of last year ’s Senior Night game.
Dear Shareholder, Annual meeting of The Last Chance Canal Company, Ltd. will be held at the American Legion Hall, Grace, Caribou County, Idaho on Monday November 3, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. for the following purposes.
1. To review and approve annual reports pertaining to the financial condition and general operation of the company.
2. To elect such directors to the Board of directors to fill any vacancies in said board as set forth in the by-laws of the corporation and to hold office for such terms as may be required and until his successor shall be elected and shall qualify.
3. To transact any and all other business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof.
The close of business on September 30, 2025 has been fixed as the date of record for determining stockholders entitled to receive notice of and vote at the meeting. The stock transfer books for the corporation will remain closed from that date until the annual meeting is adjourned.
All Stockholders are urged to attend the meeting in person or by proxy. If you do not expect to attend the meeting and desire to have the stock registered in your name voted at the meeting, you are requested by the management to fill in, sign and return promptly, a proxy.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS LAST CHANCE CANAL COMPANY LTD.
Jodi Mathews, Secretary PO Box 93 Grace, Idaho 83241
#1168-10-16-23-30-25-T3
SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 149, CARIBOU COUNTY, STATE OF IDAHO
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to the laws of the State of Idaho and the Resolution of the Board of Trustees of School District No. 149, CARIBOU County, State of Idaho, adopted on August 20 , 202 5 , a Supplemental Levy Election will be held on November 4, 2025, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. for the purpose of voting upon the following question and proposition of authorizing a levy: The Board of Trustees of School District No. 149, CARIBOU County, State of Idaho, is seeking authorization to levy a Supplemental Levy for the following purposes and approximate amount of levy funds to be allocated to each use:
The proposed levy replaces an existing levy that expires on June 30, 2026, and that currently costs $169.57 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value. Therefore, if the proposed levy is approved, the tax per $100,000 of taxable assessed value is expected to decrease by $9.85 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value.
Said election will be conducted pursuant to Title 34, Idaho Code.
To be published on October 23rd & 31st, 2025 in The Idaho Enterprise.
#1172-10-23-30-25-T2
Jim Spinner, Esquire (ISB #3417)
SPINNER, WOOD & SMITH
P.O. Box 6009 - 1335 East Center Pocatello, Idaho 83205-6009
Email: spinjim@pocatellolaw.com
Telephone: (208) 232-4471
Attorneys for Plaintiffs
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE SIXTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF THE STATE OF IDAHO, IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF CARIBOU Case No. CV15-25-0258
WADE HOPKINS AND KRISTY HOPKINS, husband and wife, Plaintiffs, vs.
JOYCE S. BANKS, heir of Leo J. Banks, and JOHN and JANE DOES I-X, as unknown but possibly interested parties, TO: JOHN AND JANE DOES I-X, as unknown but possibly interested parties or heirs of Leo J. Banks.
A Complaint to quiet title has been filed in the above named court. The nature of the claim is to quiet title in real property to the Plaintiffs.
Any time after 21 days following the last publication of this summons, the Court may enter a judgment against you without further notice, unless prior to that time you have filed a written response in the proper form, including the case number, and paid any required filing fee to the Clerk of the Court at the Caribou County Courthouse, 159 S. Main, Soda Springs, Idaho, 83276; (208) 5474324, and served a copy of your response on the Plaintiff’s attorney, Jim Spinner, of Spinner, Wood & Smith, 1335 East Center, P.O. Box 6009, Pocatello, Idaho 83205-6009; (208) 232-4471.
The real property to which this Summons pertains is described as follows:
NOVEMBER ELECTION NOTICE CITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS
The City of Bancroft, The City of Grace, and the City of Soda Springs will hold city elections on November 4, 2025. The City of Bancroft election will be held at the Lion’s Club Building, 165 S. Main, Bancroft, Idaho. The City of Grace election will be held at the Caribou County Events Center at 117 W. 1 N., Grace Idaho. The City of Soda Springs election will be held at the Tigert Middle School Gym at 250 E. 3rd S., Soda Springs, Idaho.
CEMETERY OVERRIDE
ELECTIONS
The Thatcher Cemetery District will hold a levy override election November 4, 2025. The election will be held at the Caribou County Event Center at 117 W 1 Grace, Idaho. The polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The amount of the override is $2,500.00 per year for two years for the purpose of paying maintenance, operation, and necessary capital expenditures for the Thatcher Cemetery District.
The Bancroft Cemetery District will hold a levy override election November 4, 2025. The election will be held at the Lions Club building at 165 S. Main, Bancroft, Idaho. The polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The amount of the override is $8,000.00 per year for two years for the purpose of paying maintenance, operation, and necessary capital expenditures for the Bancroft Cemetery District.
The Grace Cemetery District will hold a levy override election November 4, 2025. The election will be held at the Caribou County Event Center at 117 W 1 st N, Grace Idaho. The polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The amount of the override is $8,000.00 per year for two years for the purpose of paying maintenance, operation, and necessary capital expenditures for the Grace Cemetery District.
SCHOOL TRUSTEE
ELECTION
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to IC 34602 that on the 4 th day of November, 2025 an election for the purpose of electing trustees for North Gem School District 149 Trustee Zones 3 will be held at the Bancroft Lion’s Club Building 165 S. Main, Bancroft, ID.
Absentee Voting : Caribou County Courthouse 159 S. Main Soda Springs, ID 83276
#1169-10-23-30-25-T2
Closed burning season ending for Idaho
Boise, Idaho - “Closed fire season,” the five months of the year when state burn permits are legally required in Idaho, ends Monday, October 20. Burn permits are normally required from May 10 through October 20 each year and are issued by the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL).
QUESTION: Shall the Board of Trustees of School District No. 149, CARIBOU County, State of Idaho, be authorized and empowered to levy a Supplemental Levy in the amount of Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars ($350,000) per year for two (2) years, commencing with the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2028, for the purposes stated above; all as provided in the Resolution adopted by the Board of Trustees on August 20, 2025?
The estimated average annual cost to the taxpayer on the proposed levy is a tax of $159.72 per $100,000 of taxable assessed value, per year, based on current conditions.
All that part of the Southwest quarter of the Southwest quarter (SW1/4, SW1/4) of Section Two (2), Township Nine (9) South of Range Forty (40) East of the Boise Meridian in Caribou (formerly Bannock) County, State of Idaho, LYING AND BEING NORTH OF THE NORTH BOUNDARY LINE OF THE OREGON SHORT LINE RAILROAD COMPANY’S RIGHT OF WAY (Union Pacific System). Said Tract of Land being triangular in shape, the North and East Boundary Lines thereof forming a right angle, and containing approximately 10.43 acres, more or less. A copy of the Summons and Amended Complaint can be obtained by contacting either the Clerk of the Court or the attorney for Plaintiff. If you wish legal assistance, you should immediately retain an attorney to advise you in this matter.
DATE: 10/10/2025 4:39:40
PM. (SEAL) By: /s/ CLERK OF THE DISTRICT COURT
E. H. Lau, Deputy Published ________,______
#1170-10-23-30-11-06-1325-T4
Qualified electors who expect to be absent from the District on November 4, 2025 or who will be unable because of physical disability or blindness to go to a polling place may vote by absentee ballot. Written application for an absentee ballot may be made to the County Clerk on a form made available at the Caribou County Clerk’s Office, 159 S. Main Room, 202, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276. The last day for application for mail-in absentee ballot shall be received by the County Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. October 24, 2025. The last day for in person absentee voting is 5:00 p.m. October 31, 2025. The last day to return absentee ballots to the County Clerks Election Office by 8:00 p.m. is November 4, 2025.
The polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Said elections will be conducted pursuant to Title 34 Idaho Code.
JILL STOOR
CARIBOU COUNTY CLERK
To be published on Oct. 23 & 31, 2025 in The Idaho Enterprise.
#1171-10-23-30-25-T2
Idaho law requires any person planning to burn outside city limits within Idaho, including crop residue burning, to obtain a state burn permit during the closed period. Many local and county ordinances may require burn permits all year round and it is best practices to contact your local fire department before igniting any woody debris.
“Obtaining a free burn permit outside of the closed fire season helps local authorities quickly identify whether reports of smoke are due to intentional debris burning or late-season wildfires,” said IDL Fire Management Chief Josh Harvey. “No matter the time of year, anyone starting a fire is responsible for that fire until it is out. If your fire gets away, you can be held liable for any property damages and for fire suppression costs.”
For most debris burning, IDL Burn Permits are free and issued immediately upon application online at https://burnpermits.idaho.gov/. Permits for burning crop residue are issued by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and available online at https://www2.deq.idaho.gov/air/CRB/.
While temperatures have cooled and there has been precipitation, there are still dry fuels on the ground. If you plan to burn debris this fall, please continue to use caution.
“While we will no longer be in closed fire season, there is still a risk of fire,” said Harvey. “We all need to do our part, using common sense and caution when burning yard waste, slash, or having a campfire when hunting.”
Please use caution whenever burning by following these steps:
General Burning Guidelines
• Clear all flammable material and vegetation within 10 feet of the outer edge of pile.
• Keep a water supply and shovel close to the burning site.
• A responsible adult is required by law to be in attendance until the fire is out.
• If it’s windy and the surrounding vegetation is very dry, it may be best to wait and burn debris another day.
More information about fire prevention information and burning guidelines can be found at https://www.idl.idaho.gov/ fire-management/fire-prevention-and-preparedness/.
Grace City Report
10/1 Public Hearing on garbage rates
At the beginning of October, a public hearing was held in Grace on the issue of raising the waste disposal rates. Mayor Barthlome called for comments from the public. David Pristupa asked what kind of percentage the increase would involve. Mayor Barthlome stated that it had been published, and was to be 46.5%. Mr. Pristupa stated that was a pretty hefty increase, and wondered about the justification for such a hefty increase for our solid waste. He inquired whether the landfill had started charging the city more.
Mayor Barthlome stated that no, the sewer and garbage were all one fund, and had been separated out this year. This meant that the city had to have the garbage sustain itself, the wages, and wear and tear, instead of the sewer helping support it or the garbage supporting the sewer. The city arrived at the figure of $16.00, noting that in the county they are paying $20.00 per month.
Mayor Barthlome stated that in the city there are people that call asking the city to make extra trips because they forgot to put out their garbage cans. Mr. Pristupa explained that he understood that to be the case, but further said the his problem with the city sending the employees out for people forgetting to put their cans out is that if he forgets to put his out, he loads it up and takes it to the landfill himself as his own responsibility. He doesn’t expect those guys to come back and get it, and thinks that maybe the city should consider a fee for a second delivery because they forgot.
Councilmember Lowe and Mayor Barthlome explained that the city has a big expense of $21,000.00 for new garbage cans. The city just replaced some parts on the arm that cost about $6000.00 to be able to pick up the cans. Mr. Pristupa asked whether the orange truck was still usable. Lead Man Wright stated that it was, but it was was still being used a lot for spring clean up. However, if the red one went down the orange one could make it for a day, but not multiple weeks. If it were to be used too much it could lead to issues because it grips the cans so tight it crushes the little cans a lot worse than the red one. “It’s one of those where if we have a problem we’ll send out the orange one if we have to, but during the spring clean up with the big cans if grips them really well and it’s hopper takes more stuff,” Lead Man Wright explained.
He also explained that the other thing that the city is looking at is the landfill has gotten more picky about what
they want and what the city is doing. There have been times where the city has dumped trucks or garbage cans and they’ve said “no we aren’t taking it until you get out here and sort it. So we’ve had to get in the backs of the trucks and sort out tires or this and that.”
The crew felt that it was not worth what we’re charging if we’re having to spend more time doing that kind of work on waste. Mayor Barthlome explained that there is a paper that the people have to sign in order to keep the metal. They can’t take refrigerators, they can’t take tires, but people sometimes “put it on the bottom and cover it up so we can’t see it and we don’t see it until we go to empty it. Then we spend four to five hours out there going through it,” Crookston explained.
Councilmember Lowe stated that she felt like that is what breaks our garbage cans probably. Lead Man Wright stated, “yes, I dumped a transmission out of a truck. I didn’t know it was in there until it slammed down in the truck.”
Mr Pristupa asked whether there was a list explaining what the citizens could and could not put in the garbage. Clerk Reeves explained that they would have to come in and ask for it. Mayor Barthlome stated that there is a sheet for anyone new coming in when they come to sign up for utilities that tells them when garbage is. Mr. Pristupa asked if it could be put on Facebook. Clerk Reeves stated that it could. Mr. Pristupa stated the only reason being to let the citizens have access if they have to come to city hall some people aren’t getting off work until city hall is closed so if it was online or even if it was on the City of Grace website or both that would be helpful.
Mayor Barthlome stated it was just basically for new people that the list had been made, because they didn’t know and they had to sign it. The city makes a copy of it and keeps the original on file to create a record that the resident has seen the policy.
Mr. Pristupa stated that possibly older people in town maybe hadn’t seen it.
Councilmember Toone asked whether he put a transmission in his garbage can. Was there any retribution can you come back to me and say you owe us $500.00. Lead Man Wright stated no because the problem is “we don’t catch half of it until we’re already done especially a normal garbage day we don’t know what’s in there until we open the back up and go to dump it and start dumping it and the landfill guys are like no that’s metal you need to take that there and take that here.”
Crookston explained that “I know other cities do curbside and we’ll have some people just throw stuff out and
NEWS OF RECORD
CARIBOU COUNTY SHERIFF
Trevor Stewart Adams, Rigby, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
David Jonathan Andrews, Vancouver, operate vehicle when unsafe or improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $56.50
Raymond John Broadway Jr., Soda Springs, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Kevin Juvall Calrow, Boca Raton, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Luis Daniel Casas Urena, Eureka, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00 Natalie Cervantes Sanchez, Victor, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Kalob Dewayne Ford, Pocatello, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50,
costs $56.50
Trey Don Glover, Idaho Falls, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Elisha Lyn Hancey, North Logan, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Troy Neil Hobbs, Saint Anthony, fail to use safety restraint, $10.00
Jordan Dee Law, Rigby, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Anicia Nicole Luna, Blackfoot, operate vehicle when unsafe or improperly equipped, $10.50, costs $56.50
Roy Lynn Miller, Idaho Falls, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Benjamin Tucker Sellers, Woodruff,
e Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition P.O. Box 331 Soda Springs, Idaho 83276 (U.S.P.S. -- 090-560) ISSN: 2997-1004
The Idaho Enterprise - Caribou County Edition is published weekly at 76 South Main Street, Ste. 207, Soda Springs, Idaho. Postmaster, please mail address corrections to:
The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 331, Soda Springs, Idaho 83276. Entered as “periodicals” at the Soda Springs, Idaho Post Office.
Subscription rates are strictly in advance -- $55.00 per year delivered in Caribou County, and $67.00 per year delivered outside of Caribou County within the United States. The Idaho Enterprise reserves the right to refuse publication of any or all materials.
Brandon Hall Editor brandon.h@idahoenterprise.com
Bryan Dean Scott Publisher bryan.s@thecityjournals.com
Hope Green Advertising hope.g@idahoenterprise.com Phone: 208-766-4773 www.cariboucountynews.com
want us to pick it up. Before we did it because the landfill was like whatever you guys need to do we’ll take it but now their like you have fridges with freon we’re not going to take it without a fee and so it’s coming back to whatever the city brings out we’re going to get charged for it instead of the people who are actually doing it.”
Mayor Barthlome asked if there were any more comments. There were none. Mayor Barthlome called for comments from the council: Councilmember Toone stated he thinks it’s important that we get our fees in line so that we are self-sustaining, we were, other areas of the budget were having to make up for what the city wasn’t making in the sewer areas. Councilmember Lowe agreed, and felt that it was still fairly reasonable compared to the county.
Councilmember Toone stated sooner or later we had to do this. Mr. Pristupa stated “you’re saying the county but it’s really a private contractor” with regard to waste collection outside the city.
Regular meeting 10/1
Bills in the amount of $410,767.18 and payroll in the amount of $13,980.38 were reviewed for payment approval.
Superintendent Crookston presented the following permits that have been approved: #2025-15 - Sylvia Winschell -covered shed #2025-16- City of Grace - renew permit for Wastewater Treatment Plant #2025-17 - Jessica Graham -shed.
Julie Parkinson read a statement to the city council concerning issues with cats in her neighborhood. She feels that the city needs to increase its rules about cats such as requiring licenses and putting а number on the amount of cats allowed per household. The city council stated that they will have Superintendent Crookston go speak with the people in Mrs. Parkinson’s neighborhood about their cats. The city council will discuss the issues in a future meeting.
The zoning map was discussed. The city council decided that they do not want to make any changes to the area from 4th East to the city limits from Center Street north to 4th North. The area is currently zoned as R2 Residential and the city would like it to stay R2 so that the city has more control over what animals the residents have. They also decided instead of changing the area from 10th South to the city limits on the West side of the highway from R1 to Agriculture to change it from R1 to R2. Zoning Commission
Member Cathy Rasmussen will take this back to the zoning commission, and they will plan to hold a public
speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Anilisa Smith, Paradise, speeding, $33.50, cost $56.50
Beau Judd Taylor, Alpine, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Adam Joseph Thomas, Kaysville, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Xunzhi Wen, Atlanta, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
Alyssa Ashley Wylie, Alpine, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Jeffrey James Young, Soda Springs, fail to register annually, $10.50, costs $56.50
SODA SPRINGS POLICE
Taylor Justin Funderburk, Casper, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
hearing. The resolution, increasing the water base rate 3%, was read in full. Councilmember Butikofer moved to approve the resolution. Motion passed unanimously. The resolution will be numbered 2025-4. The resolution, increasing the sewer rate 3%, was read in full. Councilmember Tillotson moved to approve the resolution. Councilmember Butikofer seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. The resolution will be numbered 2025-5. The resolution, increasing the garbage rate 46.5%, was read in full. Councilmember Toone moved to approve the resolution. Councilmember Tillotson seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. resolution will be numbered 2025-6.
Councilmember Butikofer told the city council about a grant that he found from T-Mobile that would help with park upgrades. There were some questions about whether cities are allowed to apply. Mayor Barthlome and Councilmember Butikofer will look into it further. Councilmember Butikofer also mentioned that he has been told by several people that they are interested in a pickleball court and willing to help build or donate supplies to get one built.
Councilmember Lowe moved to approve Mayor Barthlome to sign paperwork in regard to the updated transportation plan. Councilmember Butikofer seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
The certificate of deposit (CD) for the center street bridge project is due on October 8. The project won’t be started until later this fall but there will be some expenses before the next 6 months if the CD is renewed. Mayor Barthlome felt that $250,000.00 should be available if needed in the next 6 months. Councilmember Lowe moved to put $250,000.00 of the CD into the savings account, and to renew the CD for 6 months with the remaining funds. Councilmember Tillotson seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. Lead Man Wright reported that the asphalt at the Wastewater Treatment plant and 4th North will be poured on Tuesday. On the 13th the electrical shut down and swap over will be done. The screw press should be installed in the beginning of November. The park and offices sprinklers will be blown out for winter next week. Mayor Barthlome reminded the city council of the Homecoming parade on the 10th at 3:00 p.m. She thanked the employees for all of their hard work. Councilmember Toone reminded the city council of the groundbreaking for the Caribou Medical Center Grace Clinic on the 13th. Meeting adjourned at 7:39 p.m.
IDAHO STATE POLICE
Bianca Korin Mounts, Laveen, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50
MAGISTRATE COURT
Brandy Mai Case, Blackfoot, inattentive or careless driving, $300.00, suspended $200.00, costs $583.50, 30 days jail, 29 days suspended, 1 day credit time served, 6 months probation – Agency: SSPD
Magic Mark Dinsmore, Salmon, driving under the influence, $500.00, costs $202.50, 180 days jail, 178 days suspended, 2 days credit time served, 12 months probation – Agency: ISP
Ag West supports Caribou County
On Tuesday, representatives of Ag West visited Caribou County to commemorate a donation of $50,000 to the improvement of the market animal barn. The barn plays a central role in the yearly Caribou County Fair and is at the heart of the year’s animal sales.
The image above includes the following:
Michael Mills (Branch Manager) Taylor Simmons (Caribou County 4-H Assistant) Nicole Mussler (Ag West Ambassador) Shelley Reeves (Caribou County Fair board Secretary) Rachel Hamilton (Administrative Assistant Caribou County Extension Office) Justin Hatch (Caribou County Extension Educator) Lisa Barfuss (Caribou County 4-H Administrator) Justin Andersen(Caribou County Market Animal President) Jake Barfuss (Caribou County Fair board) Levi Barfuss (cute helper) Dallin Greer (Ag West Relationship Manager)
Members of the Extension Office thanked Ag West for the generous support, and for working to help sustain the critical infrastructure that provides a way for many kids to ex-
perience everything that goes along with raising animals, showing them, and ultimately selling them. The livestock auction at the end of the fair is one of the county’s most anticipated and entertaining events.
Speaking of events, the Event Center is nearing completion, and the remaining work is primarily aesthetic. There are some wiring and networking tasks left to complete, but most of what is left is finishing work that will make the facility fully operational. The county has already announced that the Event Center will serve as a polling location, so whether the Event Center is ready for the Extension Office, Emergency Services, and other occupants to move in or not, the main event area will be open for voting either way.
A grand opening event of some type is loosely planned for sometime after completion. As the project has gone on, many people have wondered what exactly is going on with the southeast corner of the Fairgrounds.
A walkthrough of the facility will be held once everything is finalized, so keep your ears out for information about that event once it is scheduled.
Cowboy Ted comes to town
Recently, the Enterprise attended a multi-county meeting of the Five County Joint Transportation Coalition. The meeting gives the involved counties—Oneida, Bear Lake, Franklin, Caribou, and Bannock—a chance to discuss available grants and project funds for roadways and other construction. In addition to representatives of the counties and cities, the meeting also included an individual who introduced himself as “Cowboy Ted,” and explained that he promotes “people powered rodeo” events, among other things.
After speaking with Ted, we would like to bring you some information about his organization, and introduce a column he has created, aimed at kids, to promote healthy information about activity and wellness. We intend to run Cowboy Ted’s advice column when appropriate in the future, and hope that it is enjoyable for younger readers. The first of these columns deals with the timely subject of Halloween Safety.
In addition to the website and column, Ted has been speaking with a number of local individuals including those at the Extension Office/4-H, church groups, city and county leadership, and others. As events planned by the various involved groups come to fruition, we will let you know how you can get involved.
About Ted:
“Cowboy Ted” Hallisey of Cowboy Ted’s Foundation for Kids is hosting programs that help kids with Suicide Prevention, Anti-bullying, Emotional-Mental, Physical Wellness ideas and Resiliency-building skills that enable kids to “Find Their Happy Place” Hallisey is also making a concerted effort to bring these resources to kids and families in rural areas.
Cowboy Ted has a Master of Education degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation and has hosted school assemblies and programs for over 275,000 kids across the United States. He has also been a PE teacher at colleges and elementary schools.
The longtime radio/rodeo host and media personality has developed a number of new on-line programs on www.cowboyted101.com to support his LIVE programs, which are designed to help kids adopt behaviors that enhance emotional, mental and physical health.
The LIVE In-Person programs are primarily held in the 8-Western States of Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. Rural communities are a major focus for the new programs. CT will travel to other states too and on-line programs are open to all.
“I have been hosting programs for kids since 1999 and I noticed that kids in rural areas seem to miss out on some of the programs that are hosted in larger schools with bigger budgets and I really want to focus on providing on-line resources to kids and parents in rural areas,” Hallisey said. I grew up in a rural area too and sometimes we missed out on some of those programs and resources. I want to help Kids Find Their Happy Place wherever they live.”
“During and after COVID, I was asked by several educators, preschools, and after-school programs if I could create some on-line resources
to enhance and support our Suicide Prevention and Resiliency Building programs,. In addition to our LIVE programs, now we have free on-line resources with books and videos on www.cowboyted.com”, Hallisey reported. “I also added a subscriber site with art and recreation lesson plans, healthy tips for kids, classroom fitness brain breaks, on-line books and fitness videos at www.cowboyted101.com.
Cowboy Ted’s 8-steps for a healthy lifestyle are symbolic of the 8-second ride in rodeo and address the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of good health. He has written 12 kids books available in both English and Spanish. The number 8 is a major theme for Cowboy Ted.
8-Steps to Health and Happiness
Respect Parents - Reinforces citizenship skills and self-efficacy
Lead a Healthy Lifestyle - Teaches healthy choices, exercise, mental health and more
Work Hard in School – Focus on self-confidence/determination
Be Nice to Others - Reduces bullying and emotional and physical fear in kids
Be Kind to Animals - Sets a pattern proven to reduce domestic abuse later in life
Set Goals for Yourself - Increases self-esteem and emotional well being
No Drugs, Tobacco or Alcohol –Teaches that prevention is better than treatment
Do One Nice Thing for Another Person Everyday - Promotes emotional health
HEALTHY TIP FOR KIDS Halloween Safety
Cowboy Ted here with the Healthy Tip for Kids. Today’s topic is Halloween safety.
Here’s a few safety tips for fun and safety on Halloween.
It’s always a good idea to go with an adult -Carry a flashlight and try to wear a costume with some reflective material that’s easily seen by cars. Be careful crossing streets and only go to homes that are well lit and easily visible from the street.
The best idea is to go as a group and only go to homes of people that you know.
Going to a community sponsored trick or treat event like a mall or Trunk-or–Treat at a local Church is fun too.
Carving Jack-O-Lanterns is a fun activity at Halloween when done carefully with supervision and guidance from a parent.
Healthy kids are no accident. Stay safe and treat people and property with respect on Halloween.
For more healthy tips for kids visit my website at cowboyted.com
The Event Center is nearing completion, after which there are plans for a grand opening to allow people to get a look inside.
The Cardinals Battle The Bears In Tough Game
BY JODY REEVES
Last Friday the Cardinals hosted the Bear Lake Bears in a very cold but entertaining game. This game came about when the Cardinals had two of their opponents cancel their varsity seasons earlier this fall. Both Wendell and Marsh Valley opted to forgo their varsity seasons after the season had already started leaving the Cardinals scrambling to replace those games. Fortunately the administration was able to fill those spots and one of them was with Bear Lake on Friday.
The Cardinals and Bears are two teams that have struggled this season. Going into the game on Friday each team had only recorded one win this season. On paper the two teams
seem to be mirror images of each other and when they hit the field they proved to be well matched.
In the first quarter of play the Cardinals offense which has struggled much of the season finally started clicking. Soda Springs was able to put together a very good looking drive in the first quarter that was capped off with a spectacular twenty six yard pass and catch from Browning to Zayden Garbett. The two point conversion failed but the Cardinals grabbed the early lead six to zero. Just a few plays later the Cardinal defense came up with a turnover giving the ball back to the offense with great field position. After a pair of penalties set the Cardinals back, Browning and Garbett connected again, converting a fourth and twen-
ty to get Soda into the redzone. A couple of plays later Browning kept the ball for the qb sneak and score. The Cardinals once again failed on the two point conversion but now led Bear Lake twelve to zero. Following a defensive stop by each team the Bears finally got on the board with a long touchdown pass with just over four minutes left in the half. It wouldn’t take the Bears long to score again. On the ensuing Cardinal possession Bear Lake’s defense would earn a pick six and suddenly Soda Springs found themselves trailing by a single point. With time ticking down in the first half of play the Cardinals once again were on the move. Another long pass from Browning to Garbett had the Cardinals knocking on the door once again. Soda
Springs found paydirt just before the halftime break on a four yard run by Cole Garbett. Following a successful two point conversion Soda Springs took a 20-13 lead into the half. Unfortunately that would be all of the scoring the Cardinals would be able to put up. The Bears would tie the game up in the third quarter before scoring one final time in the fourth quarter to retake the lead and steal the victory 27-20. The Cardinals showed some real growth in this game that can hopefully carry over into their season finale.
Soda Springs will end their season Friday night at home against Aberdeen. It will be senior night for the Cardinals so come out and support a great group of seniors in their final game as Cardinals.
Local XC Teams Peaking At The Right Time
BY JODY REEVES
With the district championships taking place this week our local cross country teams seem to be trending in the right direction. In the last race before districts both Soda Springs and Grace ran in the Preston Invitational last week. Several of the top runners for both schools hit either season best times or set new personal records in that race.
The Grace Grizzlies boys team saw every one of their top five runners hit season best times on the course in Preston. Colt Coleman was the best runner for Grace and ran a season best time. Carter Mecham and Treyson King each set new PR’s with Brock Johnson and Jonah Wilkerson setting season best
times. The Grizzlies finished in eleventh place as a team but were the only 2A school in attendance with several 3, 4, and 5A schools. Lily Coleman was the only Lady Grizzly to run in the race. Lily was able to run a new season best time as well. The Grizzlies will compete for their district title in Pocatello on Thursday on the ISU course.
The Lady Cardinals also had several girls run season best times. Mylee White, Riley Goode, Courtnee Gronning and Mollie Renfroe all ran all time personal bests. Joining them was freshman standout Brinley Kunz who continues to close the gap between her and the teams leading runner Ellie Wood. Wood was one of the only Lady Cardinals to not set a new best time but still had the best time of any
The Cowboys Dominate The Warriors
BY JODY REEVES
The North Gem Cowboys took their final road trip of the season last Friday when they traveled to Idaho Falls to face the Watersprings Christian Warriors. The Cowboys entered the contest coming off of their first conference loss of the season at the hands of the Challis Vikings. The loss to the Vikings greatly hurt the Cowboys chances of extending their season into the playoffs. A loss to the Warriors would have been a devastating blow to the Cowboys and would have left them completely deflated going into their season finale this week. With a true Cowboy spirit North Gem walked onto the field last Friday ready to go to work and show some real grit. As Friday afternoon’s game got underway the scoring came fast from both teams. The two teams put up a total of thirty-eight points in just the first quarter with the Cowboys leading the Warriors by ten points. At the end of that first quarter the game appeared as though it would be a battle with both teams moving the ball and scoring. However as the second quarter got underway the Cowboys defense decided to show up and the offense kept humming along. The Cowboys took over the game and held
the Warriors scoreless in the second while adding a whopping thirty more points to their score. The second half was far less active as the Cowboys seemed to let off of the throttle and ended up coasting to a comfortable victory winning 68-16.
The Cowboy offense put up four hundred total yards and the defense held the Warriors to just one hundred seventy-four yards. Quarterback Craig Yost scored an incredible five touchdowns while Freshman Clay Johnson looked to be back on track adding three touchdowns of his own. The tough senior linebacker duo of Yost and Frandsen led the way on defense combining for twenty two tackles and one sack. Freshman Stone Wight had a great game defensively as he got in on eleven tackles of his own with one sack and one tackle for loss.
The Cowboys end their season this Friday when they host district rival Rockland on senior night. Currently the Bulldogs are in first place in the conference and would wrap up the district title with a win in Bancroft but you can bet the Cowboys will be ready to go to work as they will try to claim the title for themselves. There is a lot riding on this game and as usual some hometown pride will be right close to the top of the list.
of the local girls finishing in sixth place individually. As a team the Lady Cardinals finished in third place behind Sugar Salem and Preston. The Cardinals boys had three of their top runners also set new personal records in Preston last week. Reuben Uskoski, Dre Lloyd, and Jaxson Horsley all hit new PR’s. Freshman Uskoski just like Kunz on the girls side is closing in on the team’s leading runner Landon Moldenhauer. Moldenhauer was once again the top runner for the Cardinals finishing just three seconds ahead of Uskoski. As a team the Cardinal men finished in fifth place. Despite their strong performances the Cardinals still finished behind district foe Malad. The two teams will face off for the district title Wednesday at Kelly Park.
Grace Results: Colt Coleman 17:58.8, Carter Mecham 18:35.6, Brock Johnson 18:37.0, Jonah Wilkerson 19:09.2, Treyson King 19:21.4, Cutler Andersen 20:55.5, Lily Coleman 21:31.4
Soda Girls Results: Ellie Wood 20:28.7, Brinley Kunz 20:32.4, Mollie Renfroe 21:13.3, Courtnee Gronning 21:50.2, Rosie Harris 21:57.7, Madilyn Kempe 22:07.9, Riley Goode 23:33.5
Soda Boys Results: Landon Moldenhauer 16:55.3, Reuben Uskoski 16:58.5, Dre Lloyd 17:32.6, Jaxson Horsley 17:43.9, Kage Kirby 18:06.7, Jonathan Beutler 19:36.5, James Birch 20:10.8
Zayden Garbett looks for some yards after the catch. Zayden made some spectacular receptions during the game.
Kayden Peterson and Owen Miller celebrate a great defensive play on the ball that resulted in an incomplete pass for the Bears.
Lady Cardinals Celebrate Seniors
BY JODY REEVES
In their final match of the regular season the Lady Cardinals hosted the Lady Tigers from Aberdeen at the Birds Nest in Soda Springs last week. It was also senior night for the Lady Cardinals. This year the Lady Cardinals had four senior players. Tara Vedder, Soleil Somsen, McKartie Green and Kale Hopkins were introduced to the crowd and escorted onto the court by their parents prior to the start of the game. The senior girls also took a few moments to honor and thank their coaching staff capped off by Kale Hopkins who talked about her head coach and sister Cedar Johnson in a moment that was very touching and emotional for all in attendance.
Going into the match the Lady Cardinals were the favorites to win over the last place Tigers and Soda Springs did not disappoint. The Lady Cardinals controlled the first set winning by a substantial amount over the Lady Tigers. Despite the overwhelming win in set one the rest of the match would not be easy for Soda Springs. The Lady Tigers continued to build momentum as the match went on. Even with the improved play by Aberdeen the Lady Cardinals were still able to jump out ahead in set two and finish the set with an eight point win. In the third set the Lady Tigers shifted the game to their advantage and led for most of the set. Soda Springs continued to play and scratch their way back into the game eventually tying the game up at nineteen points a piece. Soda Springs then scored the next four points and led 23-19. With the set and match seemingly in hand the Lady Cardinals subbed in some of their jv players to finish the game. Things did not go as planned as the Lady Tigers ripped off five straight points of their own. The Lady Cardinals went back to their varsity players and the experienced girls were able to finish off the set and match in dramatic fashion.
The Lady Cardinals were able to send the seniors off with a win in their last game on their home court giving them a memory that they will be able to look back on for years.
Cardinals 25 25 26 Tigers 13 17 24
Season Ends For Local Volleyball Teams
BY JODY REEVES
Two of our local volleyball teams saw their seasons come to an end last weekend as they competed in their respective district tournaments. Each district is responsible for setting up their own district tournaments and every one of them is different.
The 3A South East Idaho Conference includes Soda Springs, Malad, Aberdeen, West Side, Declo and Wendell. The conference set up the district tournament so that the top two teams would receive first round byes while the other four teams matched up according to their regular season rankings. That first round game was essentially a play-in game meaning that the two teams that lost in the first round were automatically eliminated from the tournament. Out of the six teams in the conference
the Lady Cardinals found themselves as the fifth seed matching them up with the fourth seeded Lady Trojans from Wendell in that round one elimination game. When the two teams met in the regular season the match was an instant classic that went the full five sets with the fifth set ending in a Wendell victory with a score of 16-14. The Lady Cardinals had hoped that last Saturday’s game would end with them as the victors. Unfortunately that is not what happened. The Lady Cardinals came out and took set one but then proceeded to lose the next three sets. With the four set loss the Lady Cardinals season came to an abrupt end.
In the 1A Rocky Mountain Conference there are a whopping eleven teams. The district tournament bracket is a true double game elimination bracket. The North Gem Lady Cow-
boys finished the regular season in seventh place earning them a spot in that first round of games. The Lady Cowboys were matched up in the opening round with tenth seeded American Heritage. The Lady Cowboys as the higher of the two seeds was awarded the game on their home court. The Lady Cowboys easily dispatched of American Heritage and moved on in tournament play on Saturday in Shelley. In the next round of the tournament North Gem had to face the second seeded Rockland Bulldogs. The Lady Bulldogs quickly took down the Lady Cowboys in three straight sets. That loss moved the Lady Cowboys to the loser side of the bracket and matched them up with the Watersprings Lady Warriors. The two teams split their regular season games with each team winning on their home court in four sets. In this neutral site game it
was not surprising that the match went the full five sets to decide the winner. Unfortunately the Lady Cowboys came out on the short end. The loss eliminated North Gem from the tournament and ended their season.
The third local team Grace will not have their fate decided until Wednesday night. Check next week’s edition to see how the Lady Grizzlies fared in their district tournament.
Soda Springs played hard at Districts, but came up just short against Wendell. The Lady Cowboys
Tara Vedder
McKartie Green
Soleil Somsen
Kale Hopkins