“Hammin’ It Up for Christmas” event begins this week! You could win a ham for Christmas!
For the next two weeks, the Hammin’ It Up for Christmas contest will run in The Idaho Enterprise. Sponsored by Malad merchants. Several juicy hams will be given to Oneida County residents who take the time to enter the contest.
Clip the entry forms that are included in this edition of The Idaho Enterprise, fill them in and deliver them to the participating merchants by Wednesday, December 17. Entry forms will also be included in the December 11 edition of The Idaho Enterprise, so you will have two chances to win!
The rules specify that winners do not need be present to win. The participating “Hammin’ It Up for Christmas” sponsors include: Allen Drug & Variety, Ireland Bank, Oneida Family Dental, KW Equipment Services, Broulim’s, Malad City, Nell J. Redfield Memorial Hospital, Farm Bureau Insurance, Mountain States Insurance, Idaho Mill & Tree Service, ATC Communications, Thomas Electric & Fur-
niture, Northern Title, On the Run & Little Caesars, Hess Lumber & Home Center, Physical Therapy Solutions, Malad Rock, Edith’s Collective, Outlaw Vapor, Malad Drive in, The Idaho Enterprise, and Ward’s ACE & Country Store.
Deadline to enter is December 17 by 5:00 p.m. Each business will have an in-store drawing on Thursday, December 18 and will notify their winners to pick up their hams. See Pages 10 & 11 of this issue and enter to win a nice holiday ham!
IN BRIEF
Three Teens Survive Crash in Cache County
Families of three teens who survived the Cache County crash that killed two others are sharing updates on their conditions through online fundraisers, describing long recoveries and medical needs. A GoFundMe for Braxton Miller, a junior at Mountain Crest High School and a member of the Mustangs football team, says he was ejected from the vehicle and suffered serious injuries. Friends wrote that Miller broke his cheekbone, fractured several ribs on both sides and required emergency surgery on his spleen. He remains in critical condition at McKay-Dee Hospital but is stable, according to the fundraiser. Another teen, Kaycin Nielsen, was flown to Primary Children’s Hospital in critical condition after the crash, according to a separate fundraiser. His family says he was stabilized the next morning and later transferred to University of Utah Hospital for surgery on a crushed pelvis. Supporters wrote that Nielsen has been responsive as sedation wears off, but he faces “a long road ahead” after losing two close friends in the crash. A third teen, identified as Thalia, also remains hospitalized after being life-flighted to Primary Children’s. A fundraiser shared by her family says she underwent surgery after arriving and is expected to need multiple additional procedures. Her mother has been staying at the hospital full-time as Thalia continues intensive treatment. All three fundraisers ask for community support to help cover medical expenses, travel and the financial strain on the families as the teens continue to recover.
After Years Without a Furnace, Man Gets Warm Surprise from Secret Santa
After years without a furnace, one local man received a heart-warming gift from an anonymous Secret Santa. For nearly a decade, John Miller relied on space heaters and layers of blankets to make it through freezing winters after his home’s furnace failed. Rising costs and limited income made repairs impossible, leaving him to face each cold season with growing worried. This December, that worry melted away. A local heating company showed up at Miller’s door, explaining that a Secret Santa had fully covered the cost of a brand-new furnace, installation included. Overwhelmed, Miller watched as technicians restored heat to his home for the first time in years. The surprise didn’t end there. The anonymous donor also arranged for a year of maintenance checks to ensure the system stays in top condition. Miller says the gift has restored not only warmth to his home but hope to his heart, reminding him that kindness often appears when it’s needed most.
City, Idaho
Julie Williams - ATC
Tracey Archibald, Kristal Talbot and Krystal Bates - Northern Title
Jaime Sweeten and Ginger DavisFarm Bureau Insurance Hyrum Price - Broulim’s
Larry Thomas - Thomas Electric & Furniture
Terri Phillips and Raleigh BarnesMountain States Insurance
Tami Smith - Hess Lumber
Diane Allen - Allen Drug & Variety
Angel Wright - On The Run & Little Caesars
Vicki Kent - Nell J Redfield Hospital
Michelle Neal and Susan WittmanMalad City
Light Parade shines bright
The Malad Volunteer Fire Department once again hosted the annual Light Parade through downtown Malad, which once again brought out spectators in force to witness the rolling celebration of the season.
Obviously, you never exactly know what to expect from the weather from year to year, but for parade-goers who lined the streets on Saturday, it was a very chilly night. Luckily, the bonfire was up and going by parade’s end, which was a welcome relief to the crowd that journeyed over to the Fire Station for refreshments and hot drinks. In response to the temperatures, the fireworks went up as soon as possible, and even the youngest watchers were able to make it through until the fanfare ended.
Given the season, we are not able to put pictures of all the floats and events in this issue, but we will post some of what we cannot fit this week on our Facebook page, and hope to bring several pages of winter event images in a coming edition of the paper.
Raffle tickets are still being sold for the upcoming Firemans Ball (December 6), and can be purchased from any fireman. Tickets are $10 each, or 3 for $20. Grand prizes include Vortex Diamond Back HD binoculars, Trips to Jackson and Wendover, and a Bell made by Doug Adams. A separate raffle will also be held, with prizes including a Swarovski STS 65 Optik Spotting Scope and eyepiece and Browning
A-bold III hunter 7mm are $50 per square for the raffle. The Venmo link for tickets can be found with the Ad in this paper.
The Light Parade and Fireworks have become a much-loved community event, and have been supported by many people, including the following: Gary and Sherma Shepherd, Lynn and Connie Price, Geoff and Nicole Green, Brad and Wendy Hess, Ed and Wendy Jones, Todd Jones, Sandy Facer, John Williams, Jerry Thomas, Brenda Thomas, and the late Dennis Thomas. Thanks go out to them, the Malad Volunteer Fire Department, and all the others who have helped make this event special for many years.
As one resident who wished to remain anonymous noted, “Thank you to the Malad Fire Dept for the boomers and for lighting them off.”
• Vortex Diamond Back HD 10x42 Binoculars (Donated by Kent Optics)
• Trips to Jackpot and Wendover
• Bell made and donated by Doug Adams
• Lots of great door prizes!! Get tickets from any Fireman or pay with Venmo $10 each or 3 for $20
• Swarovski STS 65 Optik Spotting Scope with eyepiece 20x60 $50 per square
• Browning A-bold III Hunter 7mm $50 per square
The Oneida County Long Term Care at the Nell J. Redfield Memorial Hospital is having its 19th Annual “Giving Tree” this holiday season. Long Term Care will be accepting monetary donations until December 6 to purchase Christmas gifts for the residents. Please mail donations to Oneida County Long Term Care, Kathy Hubbard,150 N. 200 W., Malad, ID 83252 We appreciate your support in making this a special holiday season for the residents at your local nursing home.
A Busy Hometown Christmas Festival
This year’s Annual Hometown Christmas Festival was held at the Event Center on Friday and Saturday, and was filled with a large assortment of crafts, Christmas gifts, toys, and a lot more.
The Grinch and Santa were on hand for photo opps, and lunch was served on Saturday.
Children decorated Christmas stockings each day from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., and many also remembered to drop off Christmas Cards to Santa in “The North Pole Mailbox.” Drawings were be held for a free gift from one of the vendors on site throughout the days of the event.
Proceeds from the event will be given to local veterans organizations.
The wide range of items which are confirmed to be at the event include: vanilla, handcrafted local artisan items, western designer clothes, goat milk, designer soaps, nails, wood designer items, baby items, kitchen crafts, handcrafted earrings, homemade candy treats, western wreaths, honey, Christmas décor, children’s educational games, native designs, repurposed wool, car fresheners, handmade Christmas cards, freeze dried local fruit, stonecrafted jewelry, hand-crafted T-shirts, and a lot more.
Leila Hoopes is the event’s organizer. The event has been in existence in one form or another and held at various locations over the last 15 or so years. “This has been a great turnout this year!” Hoopes said.
There were a number of familiar faces inside the Event Center, like Eric and Sadie Crowther, who were demonstrating their handmade wooden Farm Toys, Christine Snow, who makes a number of products from tallow, and Amber Allen, representing the Friends of the Library, among others.
Marcia Stocks was also on hand, and will be hosting a Community Christmas dinner on December 25 from 11-2. Details are being finalized, but if you would like to find out how to help, call Marcia at (208) 840-0020.
The event was a great chance to get an early (for people like me) Christmas shopping experience in, or pick up a last minute gift (for people like Jean Thomas who I went with, and probably buys all her gifts in January for the next year)!
The event has been held in a number of locations over the years, but the Event Center seems to be a great fit for it, and I’m excited to see what Leila Hoopes has planned for next year!
A huge shout-out to the Malad Volunteer Fire Department for continuing a tradition that marks the official start of the Christmas season in Malad! If you enjoyed the Annual Christmas Light Parade and the gathering at the fire station with fireworks, be sure to thank a fireman. Events like this take considerable behind-the-scenes effort, especially from the volunteer firefighters and their spouses. We at Malad City appreciate and thank you for your efforts!
Recently, several Facebook posts have highlighted how kind the people of Malad are to one another. That’s a meaningful compliment to our community. In that same spirit, Idaho Senator Kevin Cook of District 32 recently shared an email titled “Civility Begins with Us.” His message pairs perfectly with the idea of community kindness.
Senator Cook wrote:
“Civility isn’t about avoiding hard conversations. It’s about how we have them. It means:
Focusing on ideas, not insulting people. Disagreeing without demonizing. Showing kindness when someone else is hurting.”
He continued:
“Children learn what they see. If we lash out online, celebrate cruelty, or silence others with mockery or threats, that becomes their blueprint. We need to teach kids another way — one shaped by listening, courage, and respect.”
He then explained what that looks like in everyday life:
• At home: Let children hear respectful disagreement. Let them see parents who argue but refuse to hate.
• At school: Encourage students to debate and to ask “Why?” and “Tell me more,” rather than “You’re wrong.”
• On social media: Pause before posting. Ask: Will this hurt someone? Will this help anything?
• When someone is attacked verbally: Speak up — kindly but clearly. If someone tears another person down, offer correction, even quietly.”
As we enter a season focused on showing love to others — and as we look ahead to a new year, let’s each make a conscious effort to practice civility. In Senator Cook’s words: “Let’s choose words that heal, actions that unite, and respect that rebuilds.”
If we’re going to show love this Christmas season, let’s go beyond gift-giving. Let’s give encouragement, kindness, and thoughtful actions that last far longer than a month. Malad City wishes all of you a happy Christmas and a New Year filled with thoughtful dialogue and daily acts of kindness to one another!
Eric and Sadie Crowther
Leila Hoopes
Amber Allen Marcia Stocks with Santa Claus
On Monday, the Hess Pumice facility in Malad raised a set of flags on its newly installed flagpoles. Up until recently, a crane on the property had proudly displayed the colors over the south end of town. The flag that had been hanging there had, however, seen a lot of wear in its time, especially given Idaho’s famous (for all the wrong reasons) windy season, which run from August to July, and sometimes through July.
“We looked into it, and putting in the flagpoles wasn’t actually too bad, so we decided to do it. We weren’t sure when, exactly, but when Lon contacted us about the 250 program, it sounded like now would be a perfect time,” Mike Hess, Jr. stated.
The Lon in question is County Clerk Lon Colton, who heads up the county’s America250 committee.
The committee is based in Oneida County (as a result of the way the original idea came down from the state offices), but it is a committee formed from individuals throughout the county, city, and in between.
The idea has been to try to spread awareness of the upcoming year of celebration to everyone who wants to take part, and encourage them to make “America250” part of their own personal mindset in addition to looking for ways to promote that mindset in their communities.
All of which is to say that the new flag at Hess Pumice is one of many examples of the kinds of things that local businesses, groups, and individuals can do to shift their mindset toward the celebration of 250 years of American identity since the signing of that signal document, the Declaration of Independence.
Other recent examples include the America250 float in the light parade, and a visit from the Spuddy Buddies to the November Veterans Program at MES.
The unveiling of the flag at Hess brought people from across the area, who were treated to the raising of the colors by the American Legion Post #65, and the musical performance of the Malad High School Chamber Choir.
Hess Pumice raises flag for America’s 250th DEATH NOTICE
Delorise John Hales passed away November 20, 2025, in Tremonton, Utah.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11 A.M. Viewings will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 5-7 P.M. and prior to the service from 9:30-10:30 A.M. All services will be held at Rudd Funeral Home- Tremonton (111 N 100 E- Tremonton). Interment will follow in the Riverview Cemetery. Online condolences and the link to the livestream of the service can be found at www.ruddfuneralhome.com.
First Half Property Taxes Are Due And Payable On Or Before Saturday, December 20, 2025!
If first half taxes are not paid by the date Referenced above, they will be considered Delinquent, and a 2% late charge will be Added, as well as interest at 12% per year.
If you do not receive a tax notice for your parcel, this does not excuse the late charge and interest for non-payment.
The Treasurer’s Office has new software from the State of Idaho; therefore, we will no longer have a copy of your tax bills in the office. Please bring your tax bills with you, or know which parcels you are paying. We will provide you a detailed receipt of all parcels paid at that time.
For your convenience, there is a drop box on the east side of the courthouse. You may also pay online at www.oneidaid.us, by clicking on the Treasurer’s tab, then select PayPort Online Payments, where you can pay with a credit card (2.5% fee), or with an e-check ($1.00 fee).
The American Legion joined Hess Pumice employees to raise the new flag. The flag pole measures a height of 60 feet.
Foster Garrett led the Chamber Choir as they provided music for the flag raising.
Jaime Olsen attended the Veterans program last month with the Spuddy Buddies and a Declaration of Independence.
A brightly lit American flag was part of the Light Parade on Saturday.
Grandparents Only
Not recommended for parents or kids...
By Gramma Dot
The pizza box challenge. What you need: 10 empty pizza boxes and lots of space. This was one of the favorite games of Thanksgiving Day. Ten players, each with a pizza box balanced on one hand, roam around the gym (or outdoor space) trying to topple the pizza boxes from the other nine players without losing his/her own box. A ref with a whistle monitors play and watches for cradled or gripped pizza boxes, which will disqualify the player. The winner is the last one with a balanced box.
It was a lively game that included everyone from youngest to oldest. Strategy was as important as long legs and arms. Often a little one would sneak in from behind and tip the box of one of her cousins who was working to tip someone else’s box and hadn’t noticed the stealth attack. It was as fun for the spectators as it was for the participants,
Curlew Senior Citizens’ Menu
Every meal served with Juice/ Milk/Coffee & Salad Bar Dec 4 - Sweet & Sour Chicken, Fried Rice, Fruit, Egg Roll, Dessert Dec 9 – Pork Chops, Fruit/Veggie, Muffins, Dessert
everyone enjoyed the competition. During one round Cousin Chase was having a particularly good time. He was racing around and tilting his box using principles of physics that were quite impressive. It got down to Chase and one other player, I think it was Boe, both with long legs and arms, just the two of them so no need to monitor for sneak attacks. After a healthy exchange and lots of laughs, Chase flipped his hand and box around and the box stayed put. The little shyster had cut a hole in the bottom of his box and inserted the tip of his finger. No one had noticed until the physics became impossible to ignore!
What a child! Chase always has a project going. He is either fixing something for someone or cooking up mystery meat for July 4th tastetests. He is a thinker, a doer, and an entertainer. Life is Good when you have a Chasen Jack around. Life is Good when you are all together!
Malad Senior Citizens’ Menu
Every meal served with Juice/ Milk/Coffee Dec 5 - Corn Chowder, Lunch Meat Sandwiches, Mandarin Oranges, Dessert Dec 10 – Birthday Dinners – Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Beets, Rolls, Dessert
ON THIS DAY
1619 Thirty-eight colonists from Berkeley Parish, England, disembark in Virginia and give thanks to God, considered by many the first Thanksgiving in the Americas
1791 Britain’s “The Observer” is first published and becomes the oldest Sunday newspaper in the world
1843 Manila paper (made from sails, canvas and rope) patented in Massachusetts
1881 The first edition of the Los Angeles Times newspaper is published
1909 Oldest still-operating NHL franchise is officially established as J. Ambrose O’Brien and Jack Laviolette create the “Club de Hockey Canadien”, known today as the Montreal Canadiens
1915 Henry Ford’s peace ship, Oscar ll, sails for Europe ‘to get the boys out of the trenches by Christmas’
1951 Aaron Copeland’s and Jerome Robbins’ ballet “The Pied Piper” premieres in New York City
1954 The first Burger King fastfood restaurant opens in Miami, Florida
1965 NASA launches Gemini 7 with Frank Borman and Ji Lovell - later the focus of the first crewed space rendezvous
1971 Montreux Casino, in Montreux, Switzerland, burns down to the ground after a fan fires a flare gun during concert by Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention; the incident inspires rock band Deep Purple’s song “Smoke on the Water”
1990 Due to the Persian Gulf crisis, gas hits $1.60 per gallon price in NYC
2024 United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson is shot and killed outside a hotel in Manhattan, New York, in a targeted attack
e Idaho Enterprise P.O Box 205 Malad City, Idaho 83252-0205 (U.S.P.S. -- 255-800)
The Idaho Enterprise is published weekly at 100 East 90 South, Malad City, Idaho. Postmaster, please mail address corrections to:
The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 205, Malad City, Idaho 83252-0205.
Entered as “periodicals” at the Malad City, Idaho Post Office. Subscription rates are strictly in advance -- $55.00 per year delivered in Oneida County, and $67.00 per year delivered outside of Oneida 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
SCHOOL MENU— DEC.
Malad Elementary BreakfastServed with Fruit, Choice of Juice or Milk
8 – Cereal Assortment, Mini Cinni
9 – Cereal Assortment, Breakfast Pizza
10 – Cereal Assortment, Pancake & Sausage
Malad Elementary LunchServed with Fruit, Choice of Juice or Milk
11 – Cereal Assortment, Apple Bites, Fruit, Juice/Milk
Malad Middle & High School
Lunch - Served with Fruit, Choice of Juice or Milk
8 – Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap, Chips, Salad Bar, Food Choice, Carrot Sticks, Fruit Cocktail 9 – Cheeseburger, Baked Fries, Salad Bar, Food Choice, Cucumber Slices, Apricots 10 – Taco Bar with all the Fixins, Salad Bar, Food Choice, Corn, Grapes 11 – Sausage Grvy Biscuits, Scrambled Eggs, Salad Bar, Food Choice, Celery Sticks, Peaches
BOWLING RESULTS
Hope Green Advertising hope.g@idahoenterprise.com
Phone: 208-766-4773 www.idahoenterprise.com
BIRTHDAYS
Cheri Jacobsen, Dec. 5
Keaton Reel, Dec. 5
Sonny Blaisdell, Dec. 6
Rachel Hawkes, Dec. 6
Ivan Jensen, Dec. 6
David Talbot, Dec. 6
Tamara Williams, Dec. 6
Roslyn Brimhall, Dec. 7
Mechelle Hill, Dec. 7
Thella Hill, Dec. 7
Lee Pfeiffer, Dec. 7
Marilyn Salter, Dec. 7
Nicona Venable, Dec. 7
Brady Tovey, Dec. 7
Sherly Tubbs, Dec 7
Diane Atkinson, Dec. 8
Owen Daniels, Dec. 8
Terry Davis, Dec. 8
David Edwards, Dec. 8
Katie Neal, Dec. 8
Louis Brock, Dec. 9
Meagan Gleckler, Dec. 9
John Servoss, IV, Dec. 9
Wayne Clark, Dec. 10
Gaven Hoskins, Dec. 10
Heber Johnson, Dec. 10
Jaylee Johnson, Dec. 10
Chet Keetch, Dec. 10
Chesley Lewis, Dec. 10
David Baker, Dec. 11
Kooper Daniels, Dec. 11
Ruth Huggins, Dec. 11
Stephanie Mason, Dec. 11
Amber Jeppsen, Dec. 11
Dick Robbins, Dec. 11
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
CLASSIFIEDS
MAIELI’S THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE – Neck or Whiplash Issues or for just a great massage. Call Maieli Murray (626) 337 - 0772 (1-52)
ANNOUNCEMENTS, MALAD ALANON - We are only a phone call away. For information on meetings, call 208-220-5295 or 208251-9808. (1-52)
ANNOUNCEMENTS, MALAD AA/NA MEETINGS, Tuesday and Thursday at 8:00 p.m., Saturday, 7:00 p.m., Call: Rick M. 208-7663584; Gary B. 435-230-3734; Jack H. 208-830-7371; or Kirk S. 208241-2297; or AA Hotline 208-2351444. (1-52)
OBITUARY SUBMISSION INFO
The cost for a standard obituary: $89 500 words with one color photo The cost for an ultimate obituary: $159 501 words plus and 2 color photos * additional photos $25 each
To submit an obituary: email: sherrie.w@thecityjournals.com Mail or drop o at the The Idaho Enterprise, P.O. Box 205, Malad Idaho 83252 100 E. 90 S., Malad, Idaho
LOOKING BACK
10 YEARS AGO (2015)
Pictured in The Idaho Enterprise are Kenadei and Draven Wise, coloring pictures for the annual Malad Merchants Christmas Coloring Contest!
The Parade of Homes, sponsored by the Malad Theater Guild, will be held once again this year on Friday, December 4. Five homes are on the roster plus the historic Oneida Pioneer Museum.
The homes to be featured in this year’s Parade of Homes will be Kole and Tracy Adams, 614 North 500 West; Doug and Stephanie Crowther, 170 West 300 North; Matt and Virginia Edlesfsen, 525 Bannock Street; Brad and Kristen Horsley, 319 West 300 North; Jared and Rhonda Crowther, 412 North Main; and the Oneida Pioneer Museum.
Local merchants who sponsored the Thanksgiving “Gobblin’ It Up at Thanksgiving” contest drew out the names of 14 lucky winners for the Thanksgiving turkey. The lucky winners were Marilyn Mansfield, Patrick Ingram, Darlene Nielsen, Gloria Gleed, Alice Moon Karla Zdroik, Ronna Bowcutt, Ione Latour, Amanda Skeen, Euarda Daniels, Shauna Mattox, Ken Moss and Debra Keller.
15 YEARS AGO (2010)
Keeping the Christmas tradition, the Malad Valley Theater Guild is sponsoring the “Parade of Homes” on December 3. The theme for this year’s event is “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” This year five homes and one church will be featured, ranging from new to remodeled, to historic. On this year’s tour will be the homes of Lon and Chalyce Young, Tony and Jennie McClain, Jeff and Lori Christiansen, John and Pennie Wolf, Steven and Amber Ward, and the Presbyterian Church.
L. Dale Atkinson says it’s never too late to get a college degree. Last May, at age 57, he earned a bachelor of arts in Social Work from Idaho State University, and was recently notified by the Bureau of Occupational Licenses that he passed the qualifying test to become a licensed social worker. Students from Malad Elementary and Malad Middle School competed in the Elks Hoop Shoot at Malad Middle School on November 20. The Malad Elementary Hoop Shoot representatives this year were Shawnee Simpson, Karson Thorpe, Bailey Hawkes and Trevor Howe. The Malad Middle School winners were Kadee Christiansen, Lindsay Sorensen, Tucker Hess and Bracken Degn.
The Dragonettes claimed a trophy with each of their routines at the recent Western States Dance Competition. This Year’s team includes: Emma Mizrahi, Beth Blaisdell, Jerika Snyder, Ashley Richards, Moriah Ihler, Brooke Daniels, Nicole Hubbard, Hayli Tripp, Kayla Harrison, Shelby Udy, Shalae Moss, Elizabeth Lish,
Amie Marshall, Randi Garamendi and Brandy Boot. The girls are coached by Julie Green.
20 YEARS AGO (2005)
Malad soldiers just home from Iraq got a fitting welcome home during Malad’s Ninth Annual Light Parade. Five of the returning troops rode a float put together by the Malad American Legion. On the float were Captain Erik Knutsen, SPC Michael “Mick” Romrell, SPC Philip Bott, Lt. Jeremy Shepherd, and Sgt. Shawn Williams. Others unable to attend who were recognized included SPC Garret Hess, Travis Robbins and Ed Robbins.
Dallan A. Nalder, who has given exceptional personal contributions, was recently recognized as an outstanding Idaho leader in natural resource conservation, when he received the 2005 Doyle L. Scott award at the Idaho Association of Soil Conservation Districts banquet held at the Double Tree Inn in Boise.
The December recipient of the Northern Title company’s “Good Deed Done Daily” award is Lillian Talbot. Lillian was nominated by Sondra Ekstrom, Activities Director at the Oneida County Hospital/Long Term Care Facility. Sondra states: “although Lillian’s husband Andie resides in the facility, she doesn’t limit her volunteering to just him. Her friendly face can be seen in the Oneida Long Term Care Center seven days a week. The residents look forward to her homemade treats, especially her cinnamon rolls. She always takes the time to visit with residents, helps them to and from the dining room, and helps get everyone set up for dinner.”
Malad High school’s FFA program had several students earn their first year degree. Those receiving their Greenhand degrees were Kathy Evans, Gene Bullcreek, Ty Johnson, Kelly Daniels, Josh Crisler, Devin Skidmore and Dylan Murphy. That same evening, Kathy Evans represented the Malad Chapter in the District Creed Contest. She earned first place and will have the chance to compete at a state level later in the school year.
25 YEARS AGO (2000)
The Malad High School Drama Team took third place in some tough competition at the District Drama festival. Those competing were Brittany Stokes, Mary Anne Jones, Melissa Jeppsen, Shelli Ray, Katie Glascock, Trent Buehler, Lucy Ward, Amber Christiansen, Tracee Roe, Christopher Atkinson, Jeff Stanley, Dallas Thomas, Rich Higley, Chase Beecher, Kyle Gibson and Angela Healy.
Fifty-three students from Malad High School are included in the 34th Annual Edition of Who’s Who Among American high School students, 1999-2000.
Local students selected include: Emily Allen, Trent Buehler, Rebecca Crowther, Deke Daniels, Trace
Downey, Lynsey Firth, Cherhys Gleed, Logan Hess, Allison Jones, Kami Kennedy, Marianne Kent, Riley Larkins, Colby Lyons, Michael Mills, Amanda Panting, Autumn Pfeiffer, Alicia Richins, Jessica Seamons, Andrew Showell, Ashley Sperry, Nicona Sweeten, Dallas Thomas, Kristy Thorsted, Julie Tubbs, Maryann Wangsgard, Brody Williams, Tammy Wittman, Gene Bott, Darla Christensen, Jeffrey Crump, Mark Davis, Justin Edwards, Katie Glascock, Brandon Hess, Jordan John, Mariann Jones, Laura Kent, Nathan Kent, Sylvia Larkins, Jonathan Marble, Lacie Nieffenegger, James Peterson, Jeannie Plowman, Nicholl Roper, Elvana Shanaj, Lacey Skidmore, Lezlie Stokes, Mandi Taylor, Kelli Thomas, Becky Treasure, Melissa Tubbs, Golden K. Ward, Thomas C. Williams.
The Malad Middle School Wrestlers finished their season by placing sixth at district. Team members on the Varsity and Junior Varisty were pictured in The Idaho Enterprise. They were Alisha Norstrom, Scott Piper, Brent Christophersen, Kendon Seamons, Trevor Price, Ben Ray, Tayler Doying, Steven Mason, Skylar Richins, Bowdrie Price, Jonathan Jensen, Robert Moore, Ray Clark, Kendall Evans, Patrick Bennett, Shawlan Robbins, Brady Robbins, Levi Christiansen, Kamas Reel, Blake Healy and Scott Schwartz.
40 YEARS AGO (1985)
On November 25 the Oneida County Sheriff’s Department obtained something new, a woman deputy. Jane Morse went to work on that day to replace Jeff Semrad, who recently resigned to take employment with the Idaho State Police.
Fifty-two Ricks College students were recently honored as outstanding national campus leaders and will appear in the 1986 edition of “Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges.” Receiving the honor from Malad was William Facer, son of Roma Facer and the late Lyde Facer.
Jerry Bush was the lucky winner of an all-expense paid trip to Reno, Nevada for the National Wheat Growers Association Convention.
The Modern Woodman of America held its annual Christmas meeting. Honored during the evening were Marsha and Terry Jones for their involvement in the Malad Community.
Irene Alder, the guest speaker for the evening said, “Marsha and Terry have brought so much good to the Malad community. They are responsible for the development of the youth soccer, basketball, cross county track team, fun runs and in general getting kids involved in different things and keeping them off the streets.”
Dustin W. Smith, son of Wendell and Pam Smith, was awarded his Eagle Scout badge upon completion of a community beautification project performed at the Oneida County Hospital.
Pictured in The Idaho Enterprise are members of the First Ward Volleyball team, which captured top honors at Region. Members of the team are Tami Panter, Amy Bowen, Kristin Panter, Molly Hess, Lezlie Williams, Coleen Cottle, Robin Alder, Zina Panter, Kellie Hendricks and Kim Hendricks. They were coached by Fay Cottle and Ellen Williams.
50
YEARS AGO (1975)
Oneida County’s first serious brush with winter has proven costly as icy roads and blinding snowstorms wrecked havoc with Thanksgiving holiday travelers. Interstate 15 was closed from 10:00 p.m. Sunday night, November 30, until 5:00 a.m. the next morning. During this period, treacherous winds and thick snow fall completely obscured visibility on the Malad Summit.
Possibly by next week, the Oneida County Hospital will be able to install its first television set – thanks to the Trail’s End Cowbelles of Oneida County. For their 1975 Service Award, the Cowbelles donated $200 to the Hospital for purchase of the set. Presenting the check to Lynn Elcock, who is the chairman of the Hospital Board, is Cowbelle President Edna Palmer.
A citizen volunteer drive for mental health raised $122.70 in Oneida County, it was announced by Jeanne N. Jenkins. Mrs. Jenkins went on to say that educational materials on mental health and mental illness were distributed throughout our community.
60 YEARS AGO (1965)
Oneida County’s teen-agers have come into their own. They have wealth such as their parents never dreamed of at their age. On the basis of recent surveys, Oneida County’s teen-age capitalists are spending in the neighborhood of $232,664 of their own money per year. The spending total is arrived at from studies and surveys made by the National Education Association, the Small Business Administration and the American Marketing Association. For the 476 who are now in the teenage bracket locally, some of them earn part of this money by doing odd jobs after school and during their summer vacations. The rest comes from their weekly allowances, which vary with their age and their requirements.
Utah Power & Light Co. said today it would provide free electricity to light some 70,000 holiday lamps this Christmas season in more than 140 cities and towns in Utah, Idaho and Wyoming.
The dollar value of property damaged or destroyed by fire in the United Sates totaled $1,367,128,000 in 1964, according to the Insurance Information Institute. It was the eight consecutive year that the total has topped $1 billon.
The Malad Third, Fourth and Holbrook LDS Wards held their joint Gold and Green balls, at the Stake building. The theme song “All That You Are” was sung by Don and Carol Eliason and Wells and Marsha Willie. Debutants were Darlene Allen, Elda Lane Archibald, Carla Goddard and Barbara Harwood.
With high spirits and nerves of steel, the boastful faculty challenged the varsity to a donkey basketball game. S & J Amusement Co. in Salt Lake City supplied the donkeys and MHS supplied the rest. The faculty claimed that a problem would arise in distinguishing the varsity from the donkeys but the results of the game showed the donkeys having an extreme likeness to the faculty. With the varsity on top, the final score was 42-38. What were the reasons for the faculty’s defeat? Principal Thomas A. Henretty claims that the odds were against the faculty. “With the donkeys working on the side of the varsity we just didn’t have a chance,” reported our principal.
10 YEARS AGO (2015) Kenadei and Draven Wise are already busy coloring pictures for the annual Malad Merchants Christmas Coloring Contest.
40 YEARS AGO (1985) The doll on the right - Paula Fayme - will soon have a new home when she is given away during the grand prize drawing of The Idaho Enterprise Christmas coloring Contest. the doll on the left - Megan Williamsisn’t looking for a new home but is admittedly a “real Prize” in her own right.
County Commission Report 11/24
This is not the official minutes of the meeting, which were graciously provided by Deputy County Clerk Shanci Dorius. Some edits have been made for length and context, and a portion of the meeting devoted to department reports has been removed for a different presentation. The official minutes can be requested through the Clerk’s Office.
Bulk Fuel Tank Bids
Three bids were received for refilling the bulk fuel tank with 7,000 gallons of 88-octane ethanol-free fuel: Valley Wide, $2.837 per gallon; Hall Oil,$2.995 per gallon; Bear River Valley $3.040 per gallon. The board accepted the lowest bid from Valley Wide and were interested to know if the winning bidder would be able to top the tank off by bringing 7,800 gallons instead of the requested 7,000.
Idaho State Historical Society GrantContract Approval
A $6,500 grant was received from the Idaho State Historical Society for a survey of the buildings downtown to determine if any would qualify to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Kirk Huffaker with Preservation Strategies will write the report for $1,000 beginning in January and hopes to complete it by April. The grant funds will not be received until after the project is complete. The project cost is $6,500, which will be paid in two installments by the county.
Follow-up on Playground Donation Request
Rachael Clark appeared before the Board on behalf of the Malad Community Foundation’s Playground Com-
mittee and asked the commissioners to clarify the amount the county plans to donate to the new playground. As of November 2025, the committee has raised approximately $156,000 of the estimated $270,000 needed for the playground (this amount does not include installation costs). The usable equipment currently at the park will be relocated near the pickleball courts. The commissioners discussed using PILT money for the donation, beginning with a smaller initial contribution and the possibility of an additional contribution in the future. The topic will be revisited at the second meeting in January. Commissioner Jeppsen motioned to approve a donation of $1,000 to the Malad Community Foundation playground project from PILT (one-time spending) funds. Seconded by Commissioner Eliason. All ayes. Motion carried.
Probation – Juvenile Form B and JCS Annual Financial Report
Form C
Kristi Christophersen with Oneida County Probation requested the commissioners’ signatures for Juvenile Form B and the JCS Annual Financial Report Form C. Mrs. Christophersen indicated that in past years there were few or no felonies, but this year there were six. Currently the number of juveniles is under 10, which is a good thing. Mrs. Christophersen noted that more juveniles are being referred through the schools for truancy issues.
The annual reporting section of Form B states that Oneida County includes the following numbers:2 male juveniles placed under diversion contracts (one age 14–16 and the other age 18+)
6 males and 3 females on probation (two ages 11–13, 5 ages 14–16, and two
NEWS OF RECORD
ONEIDA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
Simiron T Langston, Malad, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Matthew James Biscoe, Malad, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Brayzen Mark Gibbs, Malad, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, cots $56.50 Oakley Jones, Portage, enrollee in drivers training course must obtain a class d instruction permit, $44.50, costs $56.50
Natanael Perez, La Quinta, driving with expired license, $44.50, cost $56.50
Patrick B Field, Albion, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
Kach Martin, Malad, driving with expired license, $44.50, costs $56.50’ Gunner Vanbebber, Malad, overtaking and passing school bus, $300.00, costs $56.50
IDAHO STATE POLICE
Kolin Marlo Knowles, Smithfield, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50 Daisy Lee Madrigal, Bullhead City, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50 Stephen Edward Jex, Salt Lake City, speeding (16 mph or over), $98.50, costs $56.50 Vanessa Amanda Nishwitz, Eagle, speeding, $33.50, costs $56.50
RECORDED LIST
November 21, 2025
Deed of Trust - Grantor: Vicki Jo Isaacson, David, Isaacson, Dave Isaacson; Grantee: Ireland Bank
Warranty Deed - Grantor: Ben Titus, Danielle Grigsby; Grantee: Christopher J O’Day, Brooke Michelle O’Day
Deed of Trust - Grantor: Christopher J O’Day, Brooke Michelle O’Day; Grantee: America First Federal Credit Union
Substitution of Trustee - Grantor: Colton Anderson, Ashlee Anderson, America First Federal Credit Union; Grantee: Flying S Title and Escrow of Idaho, INC
Deed of Reconveyance - Grantor: Flying S Title and Escrow of Idaho, INC; Grantee: Colton Anderson, Ashlee Anderson
Quit claim Deed - Grantor: Franklin N Madsen, Donna Gayle Madsen; Grantee: Franklin Madsen Trustee, Donna Gayle Madsen Trustee, Frank & Donna Gayle Madsen Family Trust
Quit claim Deed - Grantor: Thayne I Barker, Margaret E Barker; Grantee: Thayne & Margaret Barker Family Trust, Thayne I Barker Trustee, Margaret E Barker Trustee
Deed of Trust - Grantor: Kyle C Wayment; Grantee: Union Home Mortgage Corp
Boundary Line Agreement and Quit Claim
Deed - Grantor: Layne Rex Waldron Personal Representative, Rex P Waldron, Donna Mae Waldron; Grantee: Joseph T Schow Trustee,
age 17) 2 juveniles have been successfully discharged
6 petitions have been filed
15 probation violations
6 felonies
7 misdemeanors
13 juveniles in the cohort group – recidivism (tracking youth who reoffend after prior involvement)
Probation – Passthrough Funds Agreement
Kristi Christophersen with Oneida County Probation presented the Passthrough Funds Agreement for Fiscal Year 2026 (October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026). The state allocation to Oneida County Probation for the fiscal year is $27,892.
R&B – Grant Approval for Daniels Road Repairs
Jake Poulsen with Keller Associates informed Road & Bridge Supervisor Dianna Dredge that the county qualifies for the Local Rural Highway Investment Program (LRHIP) grant. Ms. Dredge requested commissioner approval to pay Keller Associates $1,000 to write the grant for the county. The $150,000 must be used within two years. The current plan is to spend the summer of 2027 improving or replacing the culvert near the Narrows and making road improvements, including widening and installing a guardrail. The culvert is large, with the current concrete box measuring 6’ x 8’. It is planned to replace it with another concrete box, because concrete has a longer life expectancy than a less expensive corrugated culvert. The new concrete box would also be larger to support the road widening, and it would better accommodate flow during times when
Carolyne E Schow Trustee, Joseph T & Carolyne E Schow Revocable Trust
Deed of Trust - Grantor: Riker Carter, Nicole Carter; Grantee: Cache Valley Bank
Warranty Deed - Grantor: Ryley Buttars, Joshua Buttars; Grantee: Brandon Alfred Taylor, Shelly Taylor
Deed of Trust - Grantor: Brandon Alfred Taylor, Shelly Tayor; Grantee: Mountain America Federal Credit Union
Deed of Reconveyance - Grantor: Emporium TPO LLC, First America Title Insurance Company; Grantee: Myron H Mitchell, Julie S Mitchell, Jason Mitchell
Mortgage - Grantor: Terrance J Daniels, Danica Daniels; Grantee: The Converse County Bank
Warranty Deed - Grantor: Haden D Williams; Grantee: Michael Goff, Ronna Hess
Deed of Trust - Grantor: Michael Goff, Ronna Hess; Grantee: Rocket Mortgage LLC
Warranty Deed - Grantor; Joann Lula Sayama Personal Representative, Katrina Miller
Personal Representative, Estate of Gary Baldwin, Estate of Gary William Baldwin, Estate of Renee Baldwin, Estate of Renee Miller; Grantee: Austin Lyle Thomas, Jordan Nicole Thomas
Deed of Trust - Grantor: Austin Lyle Thomas, Jordan Nicole Thomas; Grantee: United Wholesale Mortgage LLC
Warranty Deed - Grantor: Glispy Wade Christophersen; Grantee: Haden Williams, Cambrie Lee Williams
Deed of Trust - Grantor: Haden Williams, Cambrie Lee Williams; Grantee: Mortgage Research Center LLC, Veterans United Home Loans DBA
Appointment of Trustee - Grantor: Ben Titus, Daniellle Grigsby, Northern Title; Grantee: TitleOne Corporation, Brian Allen Grigsby Trustee
Deed of Reconveyance - Grantor: TitleOIne Corporation; Grantee: Ben Titus, Danielle Grigsby
Corrected Warranty Deed - Grantor: Joann
Lula Sayama, Corrected Personal Representative, Katrina Miller, Corrected Personal Representative, Estate of Gary William Baldwin, Estate of Renee Baldwin AKA, Estate of Baldwin, AKA, Estate of Renee Miller; Grantee: Austin Lyle Thomas, Jordan Nicole Thomas
Corrected Deed of Trust - Grantor: Austin
Lyle Thomas, Jordan Nicole Thomas; Grantee: United Wholesale Mortgage LLC
Warranty Deed - Grantor: Michael J Heath; Grantee: Terry B Jackson, Andreah Jackson
Quit Claim Deed - Granto: Donald Steven Vaughan; Grantee: Donald Steven VaughanAnne Cragun
community members have observed the culvert running full.
Paragraph 8 of the contract has an indemnity clause, but Keller Associates provided a local-government version of the contract, which was obtained and returned for commissioner signature prior to the end of the meeting. Commissioner Eliason motioned to accept the agreement for professional services between Oneida County and Keller Associates to write the grant for the Local Rural Highway Investment Program (LRHIP) for the Devils Creek Culvert Rehab Project for $1,000. Seconded by Commissioner Jeppsen. All ayes. Motion carried.
R&B - LRHIP Construction Application - Devils Creek Culvert (Daniels Road Project)
Continuing the discussion of the Daniels road repairs, the Local Rural Highway Investment Program (LRHIP) Construction Application was presented to the board for approval of the $150,000 grant. Item number 10 on the agreement highlights the county’s need to be aware of the deadline, but County Attorney Lyle Fuller stated it does not need to be removed, but advised the county to be aware of the deadline and noted there is an opportunity for an extension if necessary.
R&B – Opportunity for Employees to Volunteer to Work up to 10 Fridays per Year Road & Bridge Supervisor Dianna Dredge requested the board consider allowing the department’s employees to come in on a volunteer basis to work up to 10 Fridays per year to catch up on
continued next page
SHERIFF’S DISPATCH
Friday, Oct 17, 2025
• 06:50 Prisoner Transfer out of county
• 07:38 Alarm Reported
• 10:02 Traffic Accident Reported
• 10:21 Informational Report
• 12:08 Civil Call
• 13:23 VIN Inspection
• 14:22 Vandalism Reported
• 21:39 Suspicious Person
Reported
• 21:58 Traffic Accident. No injuries Saturday, Oct 18, 2025
• 08:52 Animal Call. Horses out
• 13:26 Traffic Complaint
• 15:08 Traffic Hazard
• 17:35 Disturbance Reported. Possible DUI
• 22:35 Ambulance Call Sunday, Oct 19, 2025
• 22:57 Injured Person Monday, Oct 20, 2025
• 12:48 Wanted Person Reported
• 14:45 Welfare Check
• 15:46 Theft Reported
• 19:39 Citizen Assist
• 19:50 Alarm Reported
• 21:45 Traffic Complaint Tuesday, Oct 21, 2025
• 23:30 Juvenile Problem
Reported Wednesday, Oct 22, 2025
• 04:19 Injured Person Reported
• 13:26 VIN Inspection Thursday, Oct 23, 2025
• 00:48 Medical Emergency
• 01:29 Motorist Assist. Truck blocking entrance
• 08:32 Animal Call
• 10:21 Animal Call. Cows potentially shot near Dairy Creek
• 17:37 Suspicious Person
Reported
• 17:57 Animal Call. Cows on roadway
• 23:43 Suicide Reported Friday, Oct 24, 2025
• 08:24 VIN Inspection
• 08:27 VIN Inspection
• 11:58 Fire Reported Saturday, Oct 25, 2025
• 11:42 Civil Call
• 11:50 Trespassing Reported
• 19:03 Fire Reported
• 20:32 Traffic Stop. Potential DUI
• 20:57 Motorist Assist
• 23:57 Welfare Check Sunday, Oct 26, 2025
• 01:16 Traffic Accident Reported. Horse struck by vehicle
• 04:14 Disturbance Reported. Noise problem
• 08:17 Animal Call. Cows loose Monday, Oct 27, 2025
• 13:32 Civil Call
• 16:54 Child Abuse or Neglect Reported
• 17:16 Animal Call. Horses on road
Tuesday, Oct 28, 2025
• 01:58 911 Call. Unknown Situation
• 11:55 Suspicious Person Reported
• 13:34 Suspicious Person Reported
• 17:18 Animal Call. Cows on the loose
• 18:37 Suspicious Person
• 19:13 Traffic Accident Reported. Deer struck by vehicle Wednesday, Oct 29
• 13:53 Harassment Reported
• 14:23 Agency Assist
• 17:48 Parking Problem
• 19:17 Welfare Check. Dog in car Thursday, Oct 30, 2025
• 07:15 Animal Call. Cows on road Thursday, Oct 30, 2025
• 23:28 Suspicious Person Reported Friday, Oct 31, 2025
• 07:54 Animal Call
• 09:48 Property Damage
• 11:49 Welfare Check
• 11:58 Fish and Game
• 16:46 Citizen Assist
• 17:54 Animal Call
• 21:28 Traffic Complaint
• 23:10 Welfare Check
Saturday, Nov 1, 2025
• 02:08 Controlled Substance Problem Reported
• 04:02 Suspicious Person Reported
• 08:35 Traffic Accident
• 15:50 Animal Call
• 20:23 Animal Call
• 21:11 Disturbance Reported. Underage drinking
work or prepare for projects. There are at least 2 employees in that department who work a second job on Fridays and Saturdays in order to make ends meet. Budgeted funds are available to cover overtime wages. This opportunity is separate from comp time and would not occur during winter snow removal months. This opportunity would be utilized beginning in the spring and involve tasks such as patching and watering roads, stockpiling gravel, fixing signs, or cleaning out culverts. Ms. Dredge would have tasks outlined that would make this overtime an efficient use of time. Employees would be paid as time-and-a-half rather than receiving comp time, and would need to remain within the allotted budget. Reporting on this effort would be included in the R&B quarterly report.
A comp time study is currently being done that may change the parameters of this discussion. The board also discussed whether new employees should have the option of earning comp time versus receiving overtime pay, an noted employees would need to understand how overtime is affected if they take PTO during the week.
Sharon Jutila with SMJ Consulting is reviewing federal labor laws to ensure the county is compliant. As Ms. Dredge anticipates the overtime beginning in the spring, the commissioners agreed to table further discussion until after Ms. Jutila reports on her findings.
Hours for Weed Supervisor
Currently, the Oneida County Weed Supervisor Cody Clyde splits his time 40%/60% between the Road & Bridge and Weed departments, respectively. He is too busy to devote a full 40% of his time to Road & Bridge. According to Road & Bridge Supervisor Dianna Dredge, a more accurate division could be 80%/20%, allowing Mr. Clyde to focus on his department and then assist with plowing for Road & Bridge during the winter.
Another option would be to pay all compensation from of one account and then have Mr. Clyde request an administrative adjustment at the end of the year to reconcile the time spent assisting Road & Bridge.
Mr. Clyde agreed that there may need to be an adjustment on the division of time. He was recently told he needs a chemigation license and it is time to renew his drone license, which will require him to spend some winter hours working on administrative needs for the Weed Department. The board requested Mr. Clyde track the division of labor on his time cards for the entirety of Fiscal Year 2026 and then assess at the end of the fiscal year. No decisions were made at this time.
Sheriff - Vehicle Purchases
Oneida County Sheriff Doug Williams spoke with the board regarding the fleet of vehicles in his department. Historically, new vehicles remained in the fleet for at least 8 years. Sheriff Williams has been exploring leasing options to replace vehicles in the fleet that are mechanically unsound or aging out. Currently, all of the vehicles are paid off and all 4-year leases have ended. The Dodge trucks are notorious for mechanical issues starting around 100,000 miles and Sheriff Williams has considered investing in newer vehicles and putting everything on a lease. A factory powertrain warranty would provide coverage for the duration of a 5-year lease. At the end of the lease, the vehicles would retain a good resale value. Currently, the Sheriff’s office is in a favorable position as the trucks in the fleet have a strong resale value. The fleet includes 3 Ford trucks, which typically hold their value better than the Dodge trucks.
The estimates provided by the Sheriff are through The Bancorp Commercial Fleet Leasing. The Sheriff is still working on the numbers, but he estimates an additional $15,000 over the current budget would allow the department to lease nine new vehicles.
Sheriff Williams proposed that at the end of each lease, the department obtain new vehicles under a new lease rather than retaining them until they have no value. In the long run, this approach would save the county significant maintenance and repair costs, and the trade in value would be a lot higher at the end of the lease. The only vehicles thing that would not be traded would be the transporter van and patrol vehicle for the reserves. The
commissioners are in favor of a plan to save the county money in the long run and would like to see the additional information Sheriff Williams is working to obtain. No decisions were made at this time.
Microfiche Scanner in the Clerk’s Office
The scanner currently used in the Clerk’s office is not compatible with the current software or operating systems on the computers and will soon be obsolete. The company that sells the scanners was recently acquired by Business Process Automations. In order to maintain continued access to the microfiche and aperture cards, it is necessary to upgrade the machine.
The new machine will have enhanced features that allow for faster, more efficient scanning, which will save the county money over time. There are 42,684 instrument numbers that need to be scanned, and many are multi-page documents of 12 or more pages. The new machine would assist the recorder’s office with its document digitization project. If the microfiche is low quality, the new scanner has a higher-quality camera that would improve the quality of the images. A promotion ending December 15 would save $3,500 on the purchase.
Commissioner Jeppsen motioned to approve the $9,270 purchase from Business Process Automations (BPA Systems) for a ScanPro 3500 Microfiche Scanner for the Clerk’s office, to be paid out of the one-time spending fund. Motion carried.
4-H Sale CommitteeRelationship to the County
Questions regarding the role of the 4-H Sale Committee and its relationship to the county resurfaced as the board considered where it should be listed on the county website. County Extension Agent Sawyer Fonnesbeck and Fair Board Member Ken Moss Jr. reported that the committee functions as a subcommittee of the Fair Board, not as a 4-H requirement, although the current bylaws do not clearly reflect this. Efforts are underway to update and clarify the bylaws.
The 4-H Sale Committee currently uses the county’s EIN number, despite being self-sufficient and not operating under county funds. The committee determines the sale order for the livestock auction and collects a small portion of each sale check to cover expenses. Attorney Lyle Fuller recommended the committee obtain its own EIN and operate independently from the county. No decisions were made.
Non-Compliant Special Purpose Taxing Districts
During a recent Idaho Association of Counties (IAC) training, it was learned that taxing districts that are not in compliance with required reporting are subject to limitations on their tax revenue. There are currently two non-compliant districts in Oneida County: Holbrook Cemetery (non-compliant this year) and Holbrook Recreation (non-compliant for more than one year).
For compliant districts, the L2 forms used to calculate property taxes for the upcoming year allow a 3% increase. Because these two districts are non-compliant, the 3% increase was removed from their L2s. Additionally, any excess sales tax or revenue sharing that would normally be distributed to these districts is frozen until the districts become compliant, which can have a significant financial impact even for smaller districts.
Notices of non-compliance will be published in the local newspaper, and County Clerk Lon Colton will contact each district directly to provide information on the steps needed to return to compliance.
Oneida County Vehicle Use Policy
A county employee requested permission to take a vehicle home rather than leaving it at the office. The board discussed the legal and IRS implications of county vehicle use.
Although the county’s vehicle use policy was discussed last year and an effort was made to update portions of it, the updates were never finalized. The board reviewed each point of the policy and provided current recommended updates. The updates will be incorporated into the policy and brought back to a future meeting for approval.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that Karla Lee Jones has been appointed personal representative of the Estate of Randy Preston Jones, Sixth Judicial District, Oneida County, ID. All persons having claims against the decedent or the estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims shall be forever barred.
Claims must be provided to Karla Lee Jones at 528 Milena Way, Grand Junction, CO 81507 and attorney Robert Montgomery at 2160 S. Twin Rapid, Boise, ID 83709 and filed with the Clerk of the Court in Oneida County. Dated November 14, 2025.
#5788
SYNOPSIS OF THE NOVEMBER 2025 MINUTES
ONEIDA COUNTY (IDAHO) BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Per IC §31-819
November 2025
November 4, 2025 – Special Meeting:
Amended Board of Commissioner Minutes from October 14, 2025 and Area of Impact map recommendations were accepted with one small change.
November 10, 2025 - Topics discussed and decisions made: Claims for payment and meeting minutes were approved. Commissioners were given an overview and update on the Liberty Gold – Black Pine Project. A letter from the BLM announcing a timber sale was shared. Safety concerns regarding the intersection of 3400 West – 2000 North were discussed. The Road & Bridge was given permission to exceed the Grants line item in their 2026 budget due to an excess on that same budget in the 2025 budget when a project was not completed as expected. The Centerline Rumble Strip Grant Agreement was signed. Excess county property was approved for sale. The Comprehensive PlanFuture Land Use Map was approved by Resolution No. 2025-11-01. The old courtroom metal detector will be listed for sale. The application for a temporary alcohol license was approved for the upcoming Fireman’s Ball. Event Center cleanup guidelines were discussed. An Executive Session was held per Idaho Code 74-206 (1) (a) and Idaho Code 74-206 (1) (b).
November 24, 2025 - Topics discussed and decisions made: Claims for payment and meeting
minutes were approved. No Board of Equalization was needed. Bulk Fuel Tank Bids were received and Valley Wide presented the lowest bid at $2.837 per gallon. The Board approved running a Season’s Greeting ad in the Enterprise newspaper. The Idaho State Historical Society Grant contract with Preservation Strategies was approved, which will assist in the reconnaissance of the downtown buildings assessment for potential placement on the national register. A $1,000 donation to the Malad Community Foundation for the playground project was approved. The Passthrough Funds Agreement, the Juvenile Form B, and the JCS Annual Financial Report Form C were all approved and signed for the Probation department. The LHRIP Construction Application for the Devils Creek Culvert (Daniels Road Project) was approved and Keller Associates was granted permission to write the grant on behalf of the county for $1,000. The Road & Bridge requested the opportunity for employees to work up to ten Fridays per year during the busiest seasons, beginning in the Spring. The hours for the Weed Supervisor are divided between the Weed and Road & Bridge departments and hours will be tracked to determine the appropriate division of labor to determine if any adjustments need to be made. The Sheriff’s department is looking into options to maintain an updated vehicle fleet while saving the county money in the long run. Department updates and highlights were given by Probation, Law Enforcement, Planning & Zoning, Attorney, and County Fair departments. A microfiche scanner in the Clerk’s office will soon be obsolete and a new, improved machine purchase was approved. The 4-H Sale Committee’s relationship to the County was discussed. ICRMP premium increase was due to updated building values. ICRMP insurance schedules were explained. NonCompliant Special Purpose Taxing Districts will be contacted to encourage timely compliance. Unused County Vessel Funds must be returned unless a resolution is made stating where the funds will be used; discussion will continue at the next meeting.
Dustin and Jaime Olsen, Jason and Careen Hornecker, Gary and Carolee Cox, David and Chalae Teeples,
ONEIDA COUNTY WEEKLY EVENTS
Nell J. Redfield Memorial Hospital
• Cardiology - Dr. Lance Longmore Dermatology - David Woodbury, PA-C
Hammin’It Up At Christmas
Another parade season is upon us, with the night parade having just taken place and another scheduled for this weekend. If you found last Saturday’s spectating to be on the brisk side, don’t worry—temperatures are expected to be slightly warmer, but the notable difference is that in this case you will be invited inside a series of warm, holiday homes.
The Iron Door Arts and Theater is sponsoring this year’s Parade of Homes, which will take place both inside Malad itself, as well as in the New Canyon area.
Tickets can be purchased from irondoorarts.org, CWC, Oneida County Library, Malad City Offices, Daily Hollow, and Edith’s Collective for $8.00. The Iron Door Theatre will also sell tickets on Dec 6.
“Come visit our cozy log home filled with the joy of Christmas in every nook,” Careen Hornecker said. Homes on the tour are open to visitors to view, and get decorating or remodeling ideas. “Every year we cut down the perfect tree that will be the centerpiece of our home for the holiday!”
Chalae Teeples said, “We’re excited to welcome you into our celebration of Christmas this year! You’ll notice that every home you visit this year has its own very distinct style and feeling. Our home would never be featured in a magazine, but we love it. The differences in traditions are one or the things that makes Christmas so beautiful.”
Funds raised from the parade will be used to support local theater and arts. It’s also a rare chance to have a great reason to wander around a house you’d always wondered what was inside of!
This year’s featured homes will be: Jason and Careen Hornecker, 2795 East 5500 North in New Canyon.
David and Chalae Teeples, 6400 North Country Estates Lane in New Canyon.
Gary and Carolee Cox, 6350 North Country Estates Lane in New Canyon.
Lee and Peggy Olson, 463 Canyon View Drive in New Canyon.
Dustin and Jaime Olsen, on 580 West Grandview Drive in Malad.
The parade itself will last from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. next Saturday, December 6.
SPORTS Turkey Trot trots on!
BY ALLISON ELIASON
Now in just its second year, our small-town Turkey Trot is quickly becoming a Thanksgiving tradition worth keeping. What began as a simple idea to bring neighbors together before the holiday rush has already grown into a lively, feelgood event that fills the morning with energy and connection. Family and friends, first-time runners and experienced racers gathered once again to kick off the holiday with laughter, a little sweat, and a whole lot of community spirit.
Hosted by The Gym, the Thursday morning jaunt began at 7 am on Main Street. The 5K course ran up Main Street before cutting across to 400 W. Crossing over Bannock Street, the course went down Stateline Road, turning onto S Depot Road. Another left turn onto Bush Avenue took racers back to Bannock Street before they made one final turn up Main Street to the finish line.
Also featuring a One Mile race, the loop started in front of The Gym, turned left onto 100 N. At 100 W, the racers turned left again, running through Four Points to Highway 38. Continuing their circle back to The Gym, the course turned left again on S Main before winding around to the finish line.
Bodie Gnehm won the 1 mile race with a 9:47 with Jennie and Bella
Burbidge tying for second at 13:17. MHS track and Cross Country star Boston Burbidge took first place in the 5k run at 20:24 with Joe Sohler trailing at 22:00.
After a rocky start of just a few racers in 2024, the 35+ racers at the starting line this year was an exciting improvement for The Gym. The staff shared, “We had a handful of people reach out wanting to do a turkey trot, so we decided to start it last year.
“We only had a small group show up and it was pretty discouraging, but we decided we had to start somewhere so we did it again this year. We had about 35 people participate this year so that was exciting. We hope to continue growing it each year, making it bigger and better. We hope to expand the race as well in the coming years and we get more participants.”
The Turkey Trot just finished its second year in fantastic fashion.
[above] Racers gathered for an early race.
[right] Bella Burbidge and KaDee Daniels racing down Main Street
Live Nativity returns to celebrate the season!
Malad’s Interfaith Council once again organized a Live Nativity to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season. Four sessions of the program were held during the evening on Monday, December 1, 2025, along the driveway behind the First Presbyterian Church. Representatives of most of the churches in Oneida County assisted during the evening.
To entertain people as they waited for the next session of the Live Nativity, Danielle Pettis, accompanied by Daisy Huckaby, performed familiar Christmas songs in the chapel of the church.
Outside the church, Pastor Jack Harwell read the Christmas story from the books of Luke and Matthew in the New Testament while young shepherds, angels, the Three Wise Men, and Joseph and Mary acted their roles. An angel choir of young women sang Christmas carols that interspersed the story. Two goats and a sheep (provided by Scott Clark) brought realism to the manger scene.
Cast members included Laura Williams and Missy Keate as Mary; John Williams as Joseph; Josiah Nielsen, Zackery Bullington, and Cedric Fisher as Wise Men; Easton Valen-
tine, Mahlon Young, Casey Young, and Jerimiah Nielsen as shepherds; and Gracelin Monico, Adora Monico, Jolisa Prince, Lillian Johnson, Maryann Nielsen, and Galilie Nielsen as angels.
On this chilly evening, hot chocolate and cookies were served by Toni Werk, aided by Ron and Tina Fessler, in the fellowship area of the church at the conclusion of each session of the program.
