Author: KIFI

Hadley Bodell

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – The primary election is right around the corner, and the Bonneville County Democrats provided voters with the opportunity to meet candidates face-to-face tonight at the Truman Banquet.

“Many years here in Idaho Falls it’s been our annual fundraiser,” said Daniel Barker, Chair of the Bonneville County Democrats. “Democrats from all over the Snake River Valley can come together and hear some of the voices of the candidates and leadership within the community that want to get up and help share a message.”

Interacting with constituents in person is one of the ways candidates can not only garner votes, but show their true values, views and personalities to their districts. “I think that builds a different level of trust and credibility between cadidates and constituents,” Barker said. “With people getting their news through social media, voters are untrusting and it’s so hard to identify sometimes with what is the true voice of the candidate.”

The money raised by the Bonneville County Democrats at the Truman Banquet go straight towards the candidates as they prepare and go into election season. Barker said the organization is especially looking forward to supporting each running person and rallying behind those candidates going to the final election after Tuesday.

The organization is looking forward to launching there headquarters on Yellowstone Ave in the coming weeks. Barker said several candidates will host watch parties on Tuesday for the elections, with members of the Bonneville County Democrats planning to attend as many as possible in support.

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Hadley Bodell

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – The Trio program at Idaho State University works with veterans to ensure they get the resources they need. This Saturday, May 16 was their second annual Veterans and Military Family Resources Fair.

The fair is designed to bring together military families in the community and provide them with all kinds of connections to local organizations. Vendors had booths for mental health help, programs for veteran community involvement, and even senior home care. Idaho Central Credit Union was there to help veterans set up accounts and seek financial advising.

“As a veteran, there are a lot of resources available, and sometimes it’s really difficult to navigate those resources and know what you qualify for,” said Russell Adams, volunteer with the Wounded Warrior Project. “Being here is important to help veterans understand what is available for them.”

The fair came to the Bennion Student Union Building at the ISU Idaho Falls Campus this year, which organizers say helped with having enough space for vendors.

“We also had a lot more support from our partners in the community, so we’ve had a lot of organizations set up and try to provide resources for the families,” said Emily Wunderlich, advisor and recruiter for Trio. “It’s been a lot easier to fit everyone in, and it’s been a lot of really positive connections with people that are here.”

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David Pace

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – In one of the closest, contested races in Idaho Falls, firefighter Connor Cook is challenging incumbent Barbara Ehardt in a race for Legislative District 33 Seat A.

The contest has generated heightened activity – with major endorsements and Political Action Committee (PAC) involvement on both sides.

Ehardt is endorsed by the Professional Firefighters of Idaho and Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador, while Cook is endorsed by the Idaho Falls Firefighters PAC and the Idaho Fraternal Order of Police.

The distinctions betwen the two are stark – with differences on social issues, budgets, taxes and immigration.

Barbara Ehardt: “I’ve absolutely been out there fighting for families, fighting for parental rights, putting families first. When you have strong families, that’s when you have strong communities, and that’s when you’re going to have a strong state. The next [major issue] would probably have to be about reducing our taxes, particularly our property taxes.”

Connor Cook: “My top priority getting in there is just to stop the bleeding, stop the divisiveness, try and stop the political purity tests, to stop the culture wars and to just focus on Idaho – … having a robust education system, getting our statewide budget back on track and making sure we’re recruiting and retaining state troopers.”

The two have differing priorities when it comes to Idaho’s budget.

Connor Cook: “Honestly, the state of Idaho is run lean. It’s run efficiently, and they’re very tactical with their dollars. If we continue to have this cut mindset, what will we have, right? That’s the thing I’m trying to go beyond. Instead of cut, let’s stabilize. Let’s stabilize the budget. I don’t think we need to come in every year with, ‘Where can we cut? Where can we cut?'”

Barbara Ehardt: “There’s a lot of people struggling just to make ends meet, just to pay their property taxes. I had introduced House Bill 961, which would eliminate property taxes for one’s primary place of residence and would instead replace it with an increase in the sales tax. The Tax Commission – it took them about three months – but said that they would need to replace that with about $932 million, or an increase of sales tax from 6 percent to 7.75 percent.”

They also addressed their differences on social issues.

Barbara Ehardt: “Certainly a big discussion in our debates would have been our stances on protecting women and children, such as the bathroom bills. I think I’ve already explained that I feel strongly that it is government’s role to protect the rights of the people. We have gone to such a place that we are bending over backwards, putting women and children in danger.”

Connor Cook: “If we continue on the same trajectory, I feel like we will become the most authoritative state under this kind of ruse of freedom, right? We became the most authoritative state in the country as far as who goes to the bathroom. We are forcing minutes of silence on kids in schools. We were close to forcing religion on kids in schools, and to me, that’s a clear delineation of church and state.”

Watch our full, in-depth interviews with both candidates below to help inform as you make your own decision who to vote for on Tuesday.

Barbara Ehardt election interview.

Connor Cook election interview.

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Hadley Bodell

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – Springtime in Eastern Idaho means warmer weather and recreational activities in nature for residents. It also means baby animals are out and about, sometimes with no mother in sight. Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG) wants to warn people against interfering with nature and the abilities of mother animals to care for their young, recalling an incident last year when a group of citizens dropped off a young fawn in a box at an Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG) office.

“The weather is wonderful, and of course we have the chance to see wildlife moms with their babies, which makes it extra fun,” said Jennifer Jackson, Regional Communications Manager for Idaho Fish and Game in Eastern Idaho. “But it’s also a time to be aware of protective mothers and give them space on the trails.”

“Trust that the mom’s going to come back”

While exploring nature areas or unmarked trails, people may encounter baby moose, fawns, goslings, ducklings and more. Residents may also find these species right in their own backyards.

“We’ve had situations where people see a little fawn curled up under a tree and think the mom’s not in the picture,” she said. “They think they need to pick up the animal and take it to Fish and Game. The reality is, much of the time a baby animal has been left where it’s at because the mom put it there.”

Mother animals, particularly deer, may leave their children behind while they forage for food, drawing predators away from the babies. By stealing from nature and grabbing a baby animal, people are taking it away from it’s mother and putting it in more danger.

“If you encounter a situation where you’ve found a little baby, don’t assume it’s orphaned. Rather, keep your distance and trust that mom’s going to come back,” Jackson said.

When Fish & Game Steps In

In some cases, people may have real concerns about the condition of a young animal. For those situations, IDFG encourages you to call their local office so they can investigate the situation.

Jackson said that IDFG has stepped in on special occasions when conditions are met to help save young wildlife. A few years ago, two moose calves were orphaned when the mother moose was hit by a car in southeast Idaho. In collaboration with Zoo Idaho in Pocatello, IDFG was able to transport the calves and locate a facility with the capacity to permanently and properly care for them.

She also said to beware of hiking with your dog, as mother moose and bear can see the dogs as threats to their children and may try to engage or charge. In that situation, it’s best to back up and move away.

“If you do have a concern about a situation you’re seeing, if you think it’s an orphaned animal, just give us a call,” Jackson said. “We deal with wildlife species here in the state of Idaho, and so it’s really under our purview to make those calls.”

She said most times, they’ll tell you to leave the animal where it is, and the mother will likely be back to take care of it, and is aware of its location. By putting it in a box and bringing it to Idaho Fish and Game, it removes the baby from its home and potentially from necessary parental care.

“They’re doing it because they love wildlife. They care about the animals, and they want what’s best for that animal,” Jackson said. “We like to tell them sometimes what’s best is leaving those animals right where they’re at.”

If you’re concerned about an animal situation, call the Southeast Idaho Regional Fish and Game office at 208-232-4703.

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Seth Ratliff

DRIGGS, Idaho (KIFI) — Teton County Fire and Rescue is urging residents to exercise extreme caution this wildfire season after a group of juveniles lighting fireworks sparked a fast-moving grass fire on the outskirts of Driggs Friday morning.

The emergency call came in around 11:20 a.m., May 15th, at the same time TCFR received an alert from two PANO AI wildfire detection cameras atop Fred’s Mountain and Relay Ridge. The fire was located near South Bates Road and Highway 33.

Thanks to the early warning, a crew of seven firefighters arrived within minutes and successfully knocked down the forward progress of the flames before they could spread out of control. The subsequent investigation determined that a group of juveniles had started the fire.

Following the incident, the department took to Facebook to issue a stern reminder about fire safety as summer approaches, highlighting how quickly resources can be stretched thin.

“Tell your kids fireworks are bad on dry/windy days…It is still really dry, and we all need to be smart this summer when working or playing outdoors,” states the post.

TCFR also emphasized that only around 6-7 firefighters protect a large area and around 1,400 residents, highlighting the need for community cooperation when preventing wildfires.

“We need people to use common sense, be safe, and help us help you,” states the post.

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News Team

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — Idahoans are paying tribute this weekend to Dirk Kempthorne—the former Idaho Governor, U.S. Senator, and Boise Mayor—who passed away last month at the age of 74 following a battle with colon cancer.

On Saturday, May 16, the Idaho State Capitol rotunda will reopen for a final public viewing. Following the viewing, a formal procession will escort Kempthorne from the Capitol to the Cathedral of the Rockies in Boise, where a public funeral service is scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m.

For those unable to attend in person, the service will be available to watch live via the Cathedral’s livestream in the player below.

Following the funeral, Kempthorne will be laid to rest at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery in Boise.

A Legacy of Public Service

Kempthorne passed away on Friday, April 24th, surrounded by his family. His death marks the loss of one of Idaho’s most prominent modern political figures, whose career spanned municipal, state, and federal leadership.

Throughout his career, Kepmpthorne served as the mayor of Boise from 1986 to 1993 before being elected to the U.S. Senate from 1993 to 1999. He went on to become Idaho’s governor, serving from 1999 to 2006. He later served as the 49th U.S. Secretary of the Interior from 2006 to 2009 under President George W. Bush.

Following the news of his passing, current state leaders released statements honoring Kempthorne’s enduring legacy and character.

“I will always remember Dirk’s generosity and warmth. He was thoughtful, gracious, and deeply committed to the people around him,” said Governor Brad Little.

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Dylan Carder

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI)- The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office and the Idaho Falls Police Department hosted a National Peace Officer Memorial Day ceremony Friday night. It took place at the Bonneville County Courthouse. It is held every year on May 15th.

The service recognized 363 names of those who were killed in the line of duty across the United States and remember the families that were left behind. Bonneville County Sheriff Sam Hulse and Idaho Falls Police Chief Bryce Johnson both addressed the audience.

“It is our solemn obligation to never forget,” says Hulse. “It’s challenging, but also cathartic for us to remember them and not just for how they died, but for who they are.

The names of Idaho’s 80 fallen heroes and seven fallen K-9’s were read as an electronic candle was placed in a glass represented each hero.

Hulse says the odds are that law enforcement will never stop losing their lives in the line of duty. So he says it’s important to honor the willingness to serve.

“To me, that’s what matters. The fact that we still have men and women that answered the call. How different our society would be if we didn’t have people willing to do that.”

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Bailee Shaw

JACKSON, Wyo. (KIFI) — Fire crews are still battling the lightning-caused Spread Creek Fire in the Jackson area, where the blaze is now 5% contained.

Approximately 150 firefighters are on the scene, working to contain and suppress the fire. New estimates have reduced the fire size, estimating the blaze has consumed around 257 acres.

Today, Teton Interagency Fire crews will continue building and reinforcing control lines around the fire’s edge.

Forest Service officials are asking the public to avoid Hatchet Road and Flagstaff Road, allowing fire crews to work safely and without delay. Drivers should anticipate increased fire-related traffic on Highway 26/287 near the Blackrock Ranger Station. Motorists are advised to use caution when driving near emergency vehicles.

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Seth Ratliff

BEAR LAKE, Idaho (KIFI) — A rollover crash that injured two people on Thursday afternoon has prompted an urgent seat belt safety reminder from the Bear Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

The crash happened just before 4 p.m. on May 14th, on North Beach Rd. near the fish ladder. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the initial investigation indicates the vehicle left the roadway and rolled once before coming to rest.

Both the driver and a single passenger were injured in the crash, and one was even ejected from the car during the rollover. While both individuals were evaluated at the scene by the Bear Lake County Ambulance Service, the exact extent of their injuries has not yet been released.

Now, the sheriff’s office is reminding drivers that seat belts and child restraints save lives. In an official Facebook post, the office urged every driver to make sure all passengers are buckled up.

“During rollover crashes, properly restrained occupants are significantly less likely to suffer serious injury or be ejected from a vehicle,” states the Sheriff’s Office. “Even short trips close to home can become life-threatening in a matter of seconds. Taking the time to properly secure every passenger can prevent tragic outcomes.”

To help local families stay safe, the Bear Lake County Sheriff’s Office also noted that they offer complimentary child passenger safety checks and educational resources to ensure car seats are installed correctly. For more information, click HERE.

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Danielle Mullenix

Spring-like conditions will continue through Friday, with the sunny and breezy weather from yesterday carrying into today’s forecast. High temperatures are expected to reach the upper 60s and lower 70s, which are normal for mid-May. However, we will begin to see a slight cooldown over the weekend as cold air from the north moves into the region. Winds will be from the west and southwest at speeds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 35 mph.

This weekend, we’ll see low pressure working out of the north, which will lower temperatures. We could also see scattered rain and snow on Sunday and Monday. A new northerly trough will present a shakeup in the weather by Sunday afternoon. Freeze conditions possible through early next weekend as a result.

Increasing clouds through our Saturday, with high temperatures cooler into the lower 60’s. Breezy, with a southwest wind of 15 to 25 mph for the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

On Sunday, expect rain and snow showers from noon until around 3 PM, followed by scattered rain showers in the afternoon. There could also be some thunder later in the day. High temperatures will reach the upper 40s to lower 50s, and will drop about 20 degrees over the weekend. The chance of precipitation is about 30%, and little to no snow accumulation is anticipated. Additional scattered rain and snow may occur late Sunday night into early Monday, with overnight lows dropping to the lower 30s.

Lake Wind Advisory issued May 14 at 7:31 PM MDT Until May 15 at 9:00PM MDT by NWS Pocatello ID

* WHAT…West winds 20 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph are expectedfor American Falls Reservoir.

* WHERE…American Falls Reservoir.

* WHEN…From 10 AM to 9 PM MDT Friday.

* IMPACTS…Strong winds and rough waves on area lakes will createhazardous conditions for small craft.Boaters on area lakes should use extra caution since strong windsand rough waves can overturn small craft.

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