Author: KIFI

Bailee Shaw

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (KIFI) — With winter weather on the way, many Idahoans wouldn’t think twice about turning up the heat. But for one veteran in Blackfoot, the simple act of staying warm had become a battle against a failing furnace — until a generous gift of a brand-new heating system brought tears to the stoic soldier’s eyes.

Vietnam War Veteran Frank Perry of Blackfoot lives with only 28% lung capacity, and temperature has a huge impact on his ability to breathe. But his ongoing battle with a nearly 40-year-old furnace hasn’t done him any favors.

 “Because it’s all it’s got some cracks and there’s a chance of carbon monoxide poisoning and you know I’ve got breathing issues, but I don’t, I’d rather not die…so,” said Frank.

Before the new furnace came along, Frank’s daily routine was grueling — shuffling outside, oxygen tank in tow, and carefully making his way down the steep stairs to his exposed basement. He’d fight with his decades-old furnace just to coax out enough heat to make it through another freezing night.

The Division Steps In

When the Idaho Division of Veteran Services learned about Frank’s situation, they knew something had to be done.

“It’s very scary. I can’t imagine having a limited income and facing being cold,” said Robertta Matulis with the Division. “Our winters are harsh in Idaho, and it’s coming. Winter is coming.”

Recognizing that “you can’t survive in Idaho without a furnace,” the local Veteran Services partnered with Right Now Heating and Air to deliver a brand-new furnace, installation and all, completely free of charge.

The moment they dropped off the new furnace was overwhelming for the old soldier. “It made me cry at the time because I didn’t know what I was going to do,” Frank told Local News 8 as the crew worked in his home.

Peace and Gratitude

For Robertta Matulis and the veteran service team, the act of service and gratitude was profound. “It gives me a sense of peace knowing that he’s gonna at least have a warm home,” she said. “And I know that he’s so grateful, and that makes me feel grateful because he served us, and now we’re serving him.”

Frank, holding back emotion, summed up the true impact of the gift.

“What these people have done, I mean, it’s warmed my heart,” Frank concluded. “The mindless giving. The thoughtfulness of the whole thing is incredible. It’s touched my heart. Shows me there is still humanity left.”

If you are a veteran in need of assistance, you can get connected with the Idaho Division of Veteran Services by visiting: veterans.idaho.gov

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News Team

COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho (KIFI) — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the location for the new Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, temple.

The new house of worship will be built on just under 11 acres, located at the corner of Hanley Avenue and Coeur Terre Boulevard. Current plans for the site call for a single-story temple encompassing approximately 29,000 square feet. The complex will also include an adjacent meetinghouse and a separate support building.

This temple will mark the eleventh for the Church in Idaho. It will join ten other houses of worship that are either operating or under construction across the state, including locations in Boise, Burley, Caldwell, Idaho Falls, Meridian, Montpelier, Pocatello, Rexburg (two temples, the Rexburg Idaho Temple and the Teton River Idaho Temple), and Twin Falls.

The new temple was originally announced by the late President Russell M. Nelson, the former prophet and leader of the global faith, during the Church’s general conference last year.

“Every sincere seeker of Jesus Christ will find Him in the temple,” he said at that time. “You will feel His mercy. You will find answers to your most vexing questions. You will better comprehend the joy of His gospel.”

More than 480,000 Latter-day Saints live in Idaho in nearly 1,300 congregations. The new temple will serve these members in the northern region of the state.

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Phillip Willis

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — On this day, in 1885, German Engineer Gottlieb Daimler unveild a mechanism called the ‘Einspur’, or ‘single track’.

It was essentially a wooden bicycle, with a fire-breathing “grandfather clock” engine strapped to the side. The contraption would become known as the world’s first motorcycle.

But as American Author Melissa Pierson put it, “The first motorcycle looks like an an instrument of torture.”

Daimler’s 17-year-old son made the first long distance ride, an important proof of concept to be sure, if not a little uncomfortable with no suspension system. It wasn’t as bad as a ride someone else took eight days later though, where the seat caught on fire!

Sources for this story:

The Perfect Vehicle: What It Is about Motorcycles – By Melissa Pierson

Medium.com

AEhistory

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Chris Nestman

Eliana Mackley of Blackfoot describes how she was “surprised” and “unsure” when she was contacted by the charity organization Colossal and their “Fab Over 40” contest to be a possible spokeswoman for the organization next year.

“I’ve done some acting for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,” said Mackley, “but this would be something different.”

After sending in a few videos, getting response emails, and then sending in a few more videos, things proceeded slowly until just a few days ago.

“I answered a few more questions and then they told me ‘Oh, you’re number five,'” said Mackley. “Fifth place in the country.”

Being fifth place in the country means Mackley easily made the top 10 finalists that go onto the final round for the contest.

“I want to win. So I’m going to speak as if I won already,” said Mackley. “If I win, I will be like, a spokeswoman for this organization, Fab Over 40.”

Collosal’s “Fab Over 40” contest is in its fifth year. The funds raised from the competition go towards supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), a non-profit that promotes cancer research, education, early detection, and supports women diagnosed with cancer. According to Colossal’s website, they’ve raised over $25 million dollars for the NBCF since the “Fab Over 40” competition started five years ago.

“To me, it’s it’s very important because I like to be able to show women that we can do these things,” said Mackley. “We can also shine, and its important that we live our dreams too.”

In order for Mackley to win, she will need support from the community in the form of votes. Those interested can click on the link HERE to vote.

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News Team

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (KIFI) — A Blackfoot woman received the shock of a lifetime Sunday night, after a soaking wet pilot emerged from the frigid Snake River and knocked on the door of her nearby home moments after his small plane crashed into the water. Bobette Brown, who initially mistook the crash sound for a car accident, says she was stunned when the injured man, soaking wet and shaken, appeared on her doorstep.

“We were sitting in the living room and heard the doorbell ring, and there stands a gentleman who is soaking wet,” Brown explained. “You can tell he’s kind of in shock, and he’s got some scratches on his face, and his hand is bleeding and… he’s very cold and shaken up.”

According to Blackfoot Police, the small single-engine plane went down sometime before 6:05 PM on November 9th. The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, successfully swam and struggled his way out of the river and reached Brown’s home. Brown immediately called for help, and the pilot was taken by ambulance to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Plane Recovery Effort

The Bingham County Sheriff’s office, with assistance from a local wrecker service, began the complicated retrieval process this morning at 10:00 AM, successfully pulling the aircraft from the Snake River.

The pilot’s name and further details regarding the cause of the crash have not been released, pending an investigation by the FAA.

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News Release

The following is a news release from the Idaho Transportation Department:

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (KIFI) — The Idaho Transportation Department will shift northbound Interstate 15 traffic between the Northgate and Fort Hall interchanges (Exits 73 and 80) the night of Wednesday, Nov. 12. Northbound traffic will move into the newly constructed lanes in the median to allow crews to begin work on the east side of I-15.

During the traffic shift, motorists can expect:

The northbound on-ramp at the Northgate Interchange (Exit 173) will close for a few hours on Wednesday night, Nov. 12.

Lane closures may occur in the project area.

After traffic is shifted, motorists can expect:

Two lanes will remain open in each direction on I-15 during the daytime.

A concrete barrier will separate opposing lanes of traffic.

Reduced speeds in the work zone.

Once the new northbound lanes are completed in late 2026, crews will complete the southbound lanes on the west side of I-15. Construction on the I-15 Northgate to Fort Hall widening project is anticipated to be completed in 2027. This project is funded by Governor Little’s Leading Idaho initiative and will result in three lanes in each direction on I-15.

For more information and to sign up for email or text updates visit itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/i15northgatetoblackfoot or call 208-252-5553.

The safety of motorists and construction crews is ITD’s top priority during construction. When driving through the work zone, please stay alert, follow work zone signage and drive the posted speed limit. Drivers are encouraged to plan extra time when traveling through the project area and check 511.idaho.gov or the 511 mobile app for the latest updates on restrictions and delays.

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News Team

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Terri Pickens, a Pocatello native and founder of Pickens Law, P.A., formally announced her campaign for Idaho Governor as a Democrat in 2026. Pickens announced her candidacy through a press release and an accompanying launch video, throwing her proverbial hat into the ring for her second bid for statewide office.

Pickens said her motivation for running is “answering the call to lead during a time of conflict and fear,” asserting that “For too long, politicians have ignored us.” She called for the election of leaders who “listen, who act, and who won’t bend the knee to billionaires.”

In her launch video and release, Pickens urged Idahoans to unify against what she termed “a lawless billionaire class that has captured our government and is plundering our state and national coffers.” She also criticized her political opponents, claiming that an “autocratic virus in the extreme wing of the Republican party has become a full-blown fascist movement.”

“I still believe in Idaho. I know we are decent, courageous, and independent. We are strong together, and together we will reclaim our future,” Pickens concluded her release.

This campaign follows Pickens’ unsuccessful run for state office in 2022. She led the Democratic ticket for the Idaho Lieutenant Governor’s office in that cycle, ultimately losing to Republican incumbent Lt. Governor Scott Bedke. The final vote tally was 30.5% for Pickens and 64.4% for Bedke.

The campaign is scheduled to host an official launch event on November 20 in Boise, where Pickens is expected to address supporters directly about her vision for Idaho’s future. For more information, click HERE.

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Seth Ratliff

IDAHO (KIFI) — Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarine, the USS Idaho, has reached another major milestone toward joining the U.S. Navy Fleet. The sub, currently undergoing testing in Groton, Connecticut, has completed its initial or “alpha” sea trials with flying colors.

These alpha trials put the submarine through its paces, testing essential functions from maximum speed to critical safety systems, ensuring the Idaho is ready for complex real-world missions.

The alpha trials tested everything from speed to safety to make sure it’s capable of carrying out its U.S. Navy missions.

The crew will continue extensive training and more rounds of testing until the submarine is officially commissioned in spring 2026. At that point, the USS Idaho will begin its anticipated over three-decade-long service.

Tonight, Idahoans can get a behind-the-scenes look as Idaho Public Television premieres a new documentary called “America’s Sagebrush Navy,” highlighting the Gem State’s extensive Navy history and major contribution in the development of Naval Nuclear Propulsion, as well as the future USS Idaho and its crew.

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Seth Ratliff

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Idaho Falls community leader Carrie Scheid, who passed away late last month, is set to be posthumously honored with the 2025 Cecil D. Andrus Volunteer of the Year Award, one of the state’s highest distinctions for civic and philanthropic service. The Idaho Community Foundation is bestowing the honor in recognition of Scheid’s contributions and unwavering commitment to the Idaho Falls region and beyond.

The award, named in honor of Idaho’s late Governor Cecil D. Andrus, honors Idahoans whose extraordinary volunteer service has strengthened communities, elevated the work of nonprofits, and inspired others to give back.

Carrie Scheid’s volunteer work spanned over thirty years, leaving an immense legacy across the Idaho Falls community. Scheid notably played a key role in the restoration of the Colonial Theater and the development of the Willards Arts Center. Beyond the Arts, Scheid also helped launch Idaho Gives, one of the state’s most successful nonprofit fundraising initiatives, co-founded the Snake River Animal Shelter, and served on several nonprofit boards throughout the region.

RELATED: Idaho Falls community leader Carrie Getty Scheid passes away

Through her many years of service in the Idaho Falls area and beyond, the Idaho Community Foundation says Carrie’s leadership epitomized the spirit of the award.

“Carrie embodied the spirit of volunteerism that Governor Andrus championed—quiet, consistent, and profoundly effective,” said Steve Burns, President and CEO of The Idaho Community Foundation. “She didn’t just give her time; she gave her vision. Idaho is better because Carrie believed in the power of community.”

Carrie passed away on October 21, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer. Her husband, Jerry Scheid, and her step-daughter will accept the award on her behalf during the Gem Ball featuring the Idaho Philanthropy Hall of Fame on November 20 at the Boise Centre East.

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CNN Newsource

Originally Published: 10 NOV 25 15:15 ET

By Allie Triepke

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    BOISE, Idaho (KIVI) — Mark Cronjaeger tells Idaho News 6 he was driving through Boise, heading home to Texas from Oregon, when just after 9:40 p.m., another car slammed into him on the Connector.

He says he’s lucky to be alive.

“All of a sudden there’s a black sedan, at [my] 10 o’clock, pushing the front end of my car across [the lane],” said Cronjaeger.

He said his car spun into the median before coming to a stop.

“The car came to a stop. I was like, ‘Okay, I’m still alive.’ There was smoke coming out of the hood, so I just jumped out of the car, and then I was like, ‘What the heck happened? Why would somebody do that to me?’” Cronjaeger recounted.

Several drivers stopped to help, including the McDaniel family from Meridian, who saw Cronjaeger’s car hit the inside median. They said the impact was so intense, they feared he had been seriously hurt.

Cronjaeger said he’s lucky to have walked away with only minor injuries. “That’s a first-degree airbag burn there, and then a big chunk of skin came off on that side. I’m okay,” he said.

His car, however, is now totaled. The McDaniel family stayed with him as police and fire crews arrived, and later drove him to the hospital, making sure he wasn’t alone in a place where he didn’t know anyone.

Witnesses told Idaho News 6 they believe the car that hit Cronjaeger may have been racing, possibly going around 100 miles per hour, along the stretch of the Connector where the speed limit drops from 60 to 45.

Cronjaeger said he’s concerned reckless driving may be common in the Treasure Valley, but he’s grateful he was wearing his seatbelt — and especially thankful for the McDaniel family.

“I’d walk away from Boise thinking I never want to come back here based on the [first] part of the experience. Now, I hope they come to Dallas, or I’d love to meet them again. It restores your faith that there are good people,” added Cronjaeger.

The scary experience has inspired him to help others and pay it forward should he ever come across a crash in the future.

Idaho News 6 has reached out to local and state law enforcement for information about the crash and any ongoing investigation, but has not yet heard back.

This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate partner and does not contain original CNN reporting.

The-CNN-Wire™ & © 2025 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

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