Applications For Safe And Sane Fireworks Booths Open Now

KEYT on March 6, 2026

Jarrod Zinn

SANTA MARIA, Calif. (KEYT) – Applications are now open for non-profit organizations that wish to set up booths and sell fireworks for the Fourth of July.

The application window is open until March 25th, and all interested organizations are encouraged to apply.

“More dates to come after March 25th,” says Francisco Santos, Fire Inspector for the Santa Maria Fire Prevention Bureau. “From there we have other meetings before permits are issued, but it’s the beginning of the process.”

Guidelines for non-profits that want to sell fireworks include being an established 501(c)(3) for 2 years minimum, and having your primary meeting place in Santa Maria or Orcutt.

“Only booths within our city limits are allowed to sell fireworks, and those fireworks purchased within those booths have to be used within our jurisdiction,” says Santos.

Additionally, only “safe and sane” fireworks are permitted to be both sold and used on Independence Day.

“In California, legal fireworks have a State Fire Marshal seal or logo embedded in the containers, whether it be a box or in the wrapping of the actual firework,” says Santos.

Fire officials say if the product you’re buying doesn’t have the safe and sane logo and isn’t coming from a permitted sales booth, it’s most likely illegal.

Last year, a record number of citations for use of illegal fireworks were issued.

“Those nonprofits that obtained a permit last year and operated last year are going to have priority,” says Santos. “Out of the limited permits that we have to offer, there might be some remaining. Some nonprofits decide not to continue. So there might be openings.”

Officials say interested non-profits need to re-apply every year.

To see the guidelines in detail or to begin a non-profit’s application process, click here.

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Seahorses Make Waves in Santa Barbara

KEYT on March 6, 2026

Patricia Martellotti

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) – Nine Giant Pacific Seahorses have returned to the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, drawing crowds and sparking wonder among visitors of all ages.

These tiny swimmers usually live farther south, in the warmer waters off Mexico and Southern California.

Lately, rising ocean temperatures are nudging more tropical species north into the Santa Barbara Channel, making the seahorses’ comeback both beautiful and a quiet reminder of the changing ocean.

The Sea Center’s exhibit gives people a rare chance to see these delicate creatures up close. Their return was made possible through a renewed partnership with Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, marking the first display in the area in years.

Visitors on Stearns Wharf are captivated by the seahorses’ slow, almost dance-like movements, while the Sea Center hopes the exhibit will inspire the community to pay closer attention to how the ocean is shifting—and how important it is to protect it.

Small but resilient, these seahorses are more than just a magical sight—they offer a window into the changes happening beneath the waves.

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Salmon’s Baker Country Market to rebuild following devastating fire

KIFI on March 6, 2026

Seth Ratliff

SALMON, Idaho (KIFI) — In a much-anticipated update, the owners of the Baker Country Market have officially announced they will rebuild the store. The decision comes just two weeks after a catastrophic fire leveled the beloved local store.

The announcement was shared Thursday morning by Tracy Krekeler, a friend of the family and member of the Lemhi Live Facebook group. According to Krekeler, the Amish family that owns and runs the market decided to rebuild after “much prayer and conversation” within their community.

In a heartfelt post, Krekeler expressed the family’s deep appreciation for the local support.

“They all would like me to extend their deepest, most sincere gratitude to everyone for the tremendous outpouring of kindness during this time,” Krekeler wrote in a post. “They have been incredibly touched in ways they could not begin to imagine from the love, kindness, and generosity that has been extended to them these last 2 weeks.”

Wind Blown Embers Destroy Beloved Local Landmark

The fire fully destroyed the former store on the evening of February 21. Investigations by the Lemhi County Fire Protection District concluded the fire was accidental, sparked by wind-driven embers.

RELATED: Firefighters battle massive blaze at Baker Country Market in Salmon

The owners had burned a pile of cardboard earlier that afternoon and believed the fire was fully extinguished. However, shifting winds reignited lingering embers, which spread to a nearby stack of pallets before quickly spreading the flames to the entire building.

How to Help

Krekeler says financial donations can be made at Frontier Federal Credit Union via cash or check; all donations must be made to the Salmon River Amish Church.

“The Millers and the Amish community are so very grateful for the continued outpouring of love, kindness, and caring from our Salmon community and beyond,” says Krekeler. “May God bless all of you as abundantly as you have blessed them.”

There is no current timeline for when the store will be rebuilt. Local News 8 will provide more updates as new information becomes available.

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Bynum, Bentz join bipartisan group on bill to keep exempting wildfire relief payments from federal income taxes

KTVZ on March 6, 2026

Barney Lerten

WASHINGTON (KTVZ) — A bipartisan group of House members – including Oregon Democrat Janelle Bynum and Republican Cliff Bentz – introduced legislation Friday to continue exempting wildfire relief payments from the federal income tax for six more years.

The Doug LaMalfa Protect Innocent Victims of Taxation After Fire Extension Act seeks to ensure that disaster aid remains with survivors as they rebuild their communities.

The bill makes a targeted extension to the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act of 2023. It would continu to exclude wildfire recovery payments—including compensation for living expenses, lost wages, personal injury, death and emotional distress—from federal gross income filings through 2032.

Without an extension, payments received by victims of catastrophic wildfires would once again be subject to federal tax obligations.

Bynum, one of the bill’s primary sponsors, emphasized that the federal government should not collect a portion of relief funds intended for reconstruction.

“When wildfire survivors are trying to rebuild after a massive tragedy, the federal government shouldn’t be taking a cut of their relief,” Bynum said. “This bipartisan bill ensures that survivors aren’t taxed on the money meant to help them pick up the pieces.”

Bentz noted that until late last year, the United States Tax Code “added insult to injury” by taxing these settlement funds.

“People who lose their homes and wages due to wildfire should not be taxed on the funds they received as result of these disasters,” Bentz said.

California lawmakers highlighted the specific impact of recent disasters on their districts. Rep. Brad Sherman noted that the Palisades Fire caused immense devastation and destroyed entire communities.

“The last thing fire victims should face is a tax bill on their recovery assistance,” Sherman said. He added that the legislation ensures victims are not “unfairly taxed as they focus on rebuilding their lives and livelihoods.”

Rep. Mike Thompson of California, who worked with the late Rep. LaMalfa on previous tax relief efforts, stated that survivors cannot afford to wait for retroactive relief from Congress. Thompson said it is wrong to tax settlement money meant for rebuilding after families have lost homes and livelihoods.

Rep. Tom McClintock of California added that the bill reauthorizes “commonsense protections” for residents who are constantly under the threat of wildfires.

Rep. Jill Tokuda of Hawaii compared the recovery needs in Lahaina to those seen in Paradise, Calif. Tokuda said recovery can be “undone” if families lose access to essential resources through taxation.

“Survivors shouldn’t face a tax bill while they’re still rebuilding their lives,” Tokuda said. “By removing federal taxes from wildfire settlements, we can prevent the disaster after the disaster.”

Rep. Blake Moore of Utah, who joined in reintroducing the measure, described LaMalfa as a “champion for rural Americans.” Moore stated that after catastrophic fires, victims should not have to worry about whether disaster aid will be subject to federal taxes. The bill is sponsored by a bipartisan group including Reps. Vince Fong, McClintock, Sherman, Thompson, Moore, Bentz and Tokuda.

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UC Santa Barbara Asks the Public for Input on New Downtown Location

KEYT on March 6, 2026

John Palminteri

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) – UC Santa Barbara recently acquired a former Staples store building in downtown Santa Barbara. Now plans to put it to use have begun at 410 State St.

That started with an outreach to the community.

During First Thursday in downtown Santa Barbara, the doors were open, lights were on and anyone coming in could fill out some notes and put them on idea panels.

There were also pictures of what other colleges have done with similar building properties in cities across the country.

Some of the first ideas were to use both all of the space and portions of the space depending on the event.

UCSB Purchases Location at 410 State St.

The location at 410 State Street is not restricted to just academic, cultural, and research activities but also summer camps were suggested.

There is a city parking lot nearby off Gutierrez St. and another a block away off Haley St.

Some initial activities could begin this year, but a build out would take about a year, according to school officials.

Many local politicians and community leaders stopped by with an interest in how the site will be used.

(More video, photos and details will be added here later today.)

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$8K in Damage – Sheriff’s Deputies investigating vandalism at Blacktail Park

KIFI on March 6, 2026

Seth Ratliff

BONNEVILLE COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) — Suspected acts of vandalism have forced the closure of Blacktail Park, potentially delaying its seasonal opening, leaving Bonneville County with an estimated $8,000 repair bill. In response, the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office is reaching out to the public to find the suspected vandals.

While preparing the site for summer recreation earlier this week, Parks and Recreation staff discovered significant damage to the area. Staff found several cut or damaged wires to pumps and sprinkler systems, along with damaged cables and components of floating docks and gangways.

Parks and Rec. closed the park yesterday, Mar. 5th, to make emergency repairs. In a news release, the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) highlighted the strain that acts of vandalism put on public resources.

“Use of Blacktail Park and other county recreation areas requires a significant amount of maintenance to ensure docks, ramps, and picnic areas are safe for public use,” BCSO stated. “Use fees and resources from county funds are limited and damage this significant make it difficult for our community to enjoy these recreational resources. “

Until repairs are finalized, all gates and access to Blacktail Park will remain closed.

BCSO Deputies are actively investigating the incident and seeking leads. If you have information regarding the vandalism, contact Bonneville County Dispatch at 208-529-1200. Tips and information can be reported anonymously online through East Idaho Crimestoppers at www.IFcrime.org. 

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Governor declares State of Emergency ahead of severe weather

KMIZ on March 6, 2026

Madison Stuerman

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Governor Mike Kehoe signed an executive order declaring a State of Emergency for severe storms expected on Friday.

An ABC17 Stormtrack Weather Alert Day has been issued for expected severe thunderstorms on Friday night.

This order activates the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan, which allows state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions.

Kehoe said in a news release that the state’s emergency operation center will be activated Friday afternoon to support the coordination between local agencies.

“This Executive Order is a proactive step to ensure our emergency management teams are fully prepared should these storms warrant immediate action to protect Missourians,” Kehoe said in a statement.

Mid-Missouri is in the 2/5 on the severe weather outlook from the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service says there is a chance of strong winds, hail and tornadoes across the state. In Mid-Missouri, there is a greater threat of damaging winds, but the threat for all hazards is possible.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is also reminding drivers to be careful while driving. The agency added that drivers should never try to go through floodwaters, even if shallow.

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City of Santa Maria Calls for Applications for City Council District 1 Vacancy

KEYT on March 6, 2026

News Channel 3-12

Below is a press release from the City of Santa Maria regarding a vacancy on City Council after the resignation of former District 1 Councilmember Carlos Escobedo.

SANTA MARIA, Calif. – The Santa Maria City Council currently has a vacancy after the resignation of former District 1 Councilmember Carlos Escobedo. An election for the vacant Council seat will be conducted during the regularly scheduled general election in November 2026. The elected Councilmember will serve the balance of the former Councilmember’s term (through 2028).

The City Council will have the option to appoint a replacement Councilmember to fill the vacant position until voters select the next District 1 Councilmember in the November election.

The City calls on interested residents of District 1 to fill out the online application for submission to the City Clerk’s Office starting Monday, March 9th and ending Thursday, March 26th, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

The notice of vacancy for District 1 and the corresponding online form is located here:https://www.cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/boards-commissions

Questions may be directed to the City Manager’s Office, (805) 925-0951, Ext. 2306.

Traducción al español:

SANTA MARIA, Calif. – El Ayuntamiento de Santa Maria tiene actualmente una vacante tras la resignación del antiguo concejal del Distrito 1, Carlos Escobedo. Las elecciones para cubrir la vacante se celebrarán durante las elecciones generales programadas para noviembre de 2026. El concejal elegido ocupará el cargo durante el resto del mandato del antiguo concejal (hasta 2028).

El Concejo Municipal tendrá la opción de nombrar a un concejal sustituto para ocupar el puesto vacante hasta que los votantes elijan al próximo concejal del Distrito 1 en las elecciones de noviembre.

La Ciudad invita a los residentes interesados del Distrito 1 a que rellenen la solicitud en línea para presentarla en la Oficina del Secretario Municipal entre el lunes 9 de marzo y el jueves 26 de marzo de 2026 a las 5:00 p.m.

El aviso de vacante para el Distrito 1 y el formulario en línea correspondiente se encuentran aquí: https://www.cityofsantamaria.org/services/departments/boardscommissions.

Las preguntas pueden dirigirse a la Oficina del Administrador de la Ciudad, (805) 925- 0951, ext. 2306.

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City of Idaho Falls to begin E Street reconstruction on March 9

KIFI on March 6, 2026

News Release

The following is a news release from the City of Idaho Falls:

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Beginning Monday, March 9, crews will begin a roadway and utility reconstruction project on E Street between Memorial Drive and Northgate Mile (Yellowstone Highway).

The project will include reconstruction of the water mainline and storm drain system, roadway reconstruction, and upgrades to curbs, sidewalks, and corner ramps. These improvements will help strengthen critical infrastructure and improve roadway conditions in the area.

Construction is anticipated to be completed in June 2026.

During construction, parking along E Street within the work zone will be restricted. Traffic control will include lane shifts, lane closures and temporary detours as work progresses. Access to businesses will be maintained via nearby side streets, including Capital Avenue, Park Avenue and Shoup Avenue.

Drivers traveling through town between Yellowstone Highway and the river are encouraged to use F Street or D Street as alternate routes during construction.

This project is part of the City of Idaho Falls’ ongoing efforts to invest in critical infrastructure and improve roadway safety, reliability and connectivity throughout the community. The City of Idaho Falls appreciates the public’s patience as these necessary improvements are completed.

Motorists should watch for crews and equipment, follow posted traffic signs, and reduce speeds in the work zone.

For more information about the project, contact the City of Idaho Falls Public Works at (208) 612-8250.

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Pocatello man faces multiple charges after falling from moving SUV before vehicle plows through building

KIFI on March 6, 2026

Seth Ratliff

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — A 42-year-old Pocatello man is free on bond after police say he drunkenly fell out of his moving SUV, causing his vehicle to plow through a local building Tuesday evening, March 3rd.

TJ Christensen was booked into the Bannock County Jail and faces multiple charges, including driving under the influence, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia following the incident that resulted in an estimated $52,000 in property damage.

The chaotic scene unfolded around 6:00 PM at the intersection of Garrett Way and East Gould Street. According to court documents, several witnesses saw Christensen hanging out of the driver’s side door of his white 2008 Chevrolet Suburban while making a turn. He tumbled out of the SUV, which, unmanned, continued through a parking lot and crashed into a building located at 1527 North 2nd Avenue.

Witnesses reported that Christensen immediately jumped up and chased after the vehicle. After the initial crash, he then rammed the SUV through a garage door on the north side of the building and again through a lot gate to flee the scene. Officers arriving minutes later began a search for a bald male in a purple hoodie based on bystander descriptions.

A Lieutenant with the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office eventually found Christensen standing outside his heavily damaged SUV on Jones Drive. According to the report, Christensen was visibly suffering from a ‘head injury consistent with a car accident.’ As the officer attempted to talk with him, Christen appeared to be wobbly and uncooperative.

The officer told Christensen to “Stop right there,” but the 42-year-old drunkenly replied, “not much,” and refused several commands to sit down. After attempting to walk away, Christensen was taken to the ground and placed in custody following a brief struggle, according to the report.

As more officers arrived on the scene, they began a search of the Chevrolet Suburban, which uncovered a marijuana pipe and several plastic bags and containers holding THC-positive wax and residue.

A breathalyzer test later revealed that Christensen’s blood alcohol content was 0.160, exactly twice the legal limit in Idaho.

Christensen was arraigned on Wednesday, where his bond was set at $10,100. He has since posted bond and been released from custody.

His preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 17.

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