Author: KIFI

Kaelyn Blessinger

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — As the school year comes to an end and students begin summer break, negotiations between Idaho Falls School District 91 and the Idaho Falls Education Association are continuing.

Contract negotiations are a routine part of school district operations, with teachers unions and district leaders working to reach agreements on issues including salaries and working conditions.

Representatives from the IFEA and District 91 are scheduled to meet again Thursday, June 4, after the two sides were unable to reach an agreement on teacher salaries. A third-party mediator will participate in the negotiations to help both parties explore potential solutions and provide an outside perspective.

“The way the system is intended is that there is money that comes in that’s earmarked for teacher salary, and then there is also discretionary funds, and there’s also local funds like our levies,” Jake Snarr, a District 91 teacher and member of the IFEA negotiating team, said. “The system is designed to create competition amongst the school districts. And so that’s where the teachers association comes in. We try to find what’s going to work best in our district, and hopefully that becomes attractive for prospective teachers looking for a job.”

Union leaders say both sides are working toward what they believe is best for students.

Local News 8 reached out to District 91 for comment. District officials declined to comment.

Local News 8 will continue to follow the negotiations and provide updates as they become available.

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KIVI Staff

LATAH COUNTY, Idaho — A federal judge has set a September 2027 trial date in a lawsuit filed by the families of four University of Idaho students killed by Bryan Kohberger, a former graduate student and teaching assistant at Washington State University.

U.S. District Judge Kymberly K. Evanson signed the scheduling order June 1. The jury trial is set to begin Sept. 13, 2027, in federal court in Seattle and is expected to last about 20 days.

The lawsuit, filed in January, was brought by the personal representatives of the victims’ estates: Steve Goncalves for Kaylee Goncalves, Karen Laramie for Madison Mogen, Jeffrey Kernodle for Xana Kernodle and Stacy Chapin for Ethan Chapin. The four students were killed in November of 2022 at an off-campus home in Moscow.

The families allege Washington State University knew or should have known about troubling behavior by Kohberger before the killings and failed to take appropriate action. The lawsuit claims the university’s actions, or lack of action, contributed to the deaths.

According to court filings, dozens of faculty members, staff and students witnessed or reported concerns about Kohberger’s behavior. The families say they have identified nearly 90 witnesses who could provide information supporting those claims.

As the case moves forward, both sides will exchange evidence and records related to university policies, threat assessment procedures, hiring practices and the handling of complaints involving Kohberger. The lawsuit also seeks information from the Washington State University Police Department, including records involving safety escorts provided to female students and employees before the killings.

The families have indicated in the court documents that they do not expect to settle the case before trial, with neither side planning to pursue mediation at this stage, though that could change after evidence gathering is complete.

Several deadlines are scheduled before trial. Additional parties may be added to the lawsuit by June 29, 2026. Expert witness reports are due in February 2027, evidence gathering must be completed by April 2027, and requests to resolve the case before trial are due in May 2027.

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Hadley Bodell

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — The City of Pocatello is excited to seal its 50-year time capsule at the end of the month and is looking for community members to donate items to City Hall that represent life in 2026.

Rick Cheatum, chairman of the America250 Ad Hoc Committee and the original author of the time capsule idea, said the project has been in the works for a long time. The Legislature appropriated $250,000 to be distributed to local jurisdictions and departments throughout the state to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary this year. Cheatum explained that local governmental entities could apply for grants to fund community projects and events.

“I saw a time capsule opened in Power County a couple of years ago, and the contents kind of captivated me and made me think maybe something like that would be appropriate,” Cheatum said.

Pocatello and the southeast Idaho region have changed significantly in everything from development to jobs and technology over the past 50 years. Cheatum approached Mayor Brian Blad last summer with the idea of creating a time capsule to be opened in 50 years, commemorating life during the country’s 250th anniversary year.

On July 3, the Marshall Public Library will host a celebration of the time capsule at 5 p.m. Mayor Brian Blad will give remarks, and attendees can enjoy refreshments while viewing the final items selected for inclusion.

“We’re asking people to bring what they might have that they think would be interesting and unique that provides a snapshot of the history in Pocatello, where we are today that people 50 years from today might find interesting,” Cheatum said.

There is a collection box at City Hall where community members can drop off items for consideration. Residents are asked to include their name and contact information with any submission in case organizers need to return the item or request additional information.

“We can’t take large, bulky things,” Cheatum explained. “We can take some small memorabilia and statements of things like civic clubs and social organizations and governmental entities to put in there.”

So far, the city has collected newspapers, a magazine about the 125th anniversary of Idaho State University and several other documents. In addition to governmental records and historical documents, the city will accept items that represent everyday life in 2026.

The time capsule will be built by Partner Steel and donated to store the items for the next 50 years. Cheatum said organizers originally planned to bury the capsule but decided instead to house it at the Marshall Public Library.

“We are concerned about potential damage to things contained within the time capsule, if fertilizer or water or something happens to be where it’s buried,” he said. “It was our original idea, but we’re going to store it inside the Marshall Public Library that’s been here since 1909, and I am sure it will be here in another 50 years.”

The library plans to create a historical display around the time capsule highlighting the history of Pocatello. The key will be stored in a separate location so no one is tempted to open it before the 50-year mark.

When asked who might open the time capsule in 50 years, Cheatum said that decision will be left to future local leaders.

“It’s a decision we have to leave to local government to decide at the time when this comes up,” he said. “I hope they have a similar celebration around the 300th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration and I would hope it’s someone like the mayor of Pocatello or the president of the City Council.”

At the July 3 celebration, local committee member Michael Steele will perform an original song capturing the spirit of Pocatello and the Portneuf Valley. The box will be sealed by that date, so attendees will be able to view photos of the selected items.

The committee has also worked to ensure the contents remain in good condition for decades.

“There’s a problem with paper having an acid content and actually deteriorating and off-gassing things that will cause further deterioration of other documents,” Cheatum said. “So, we’re planning to put everything in a special polyethylene envelope, sealing them up. We’ll oxygen purge the time capsule when it’s sealed so we get as much oxygen out of there as possible so it can’t contaminate the documents and just hope that in 50 years we’ve done a good job.”

Cheatum said preserving local history is important to both him and the committee. He said it is important to accurately represent the community in the time capsule so future generations do not forget it.

“I think the things that we’re preserving as a record of what we were, where we are today and who we are as a people are important.”

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Hadley Bodell

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Bannock County has seen an explosion of the noxious weed Dyer’s woad and is offering to help residents fight it on their property with free weed spray.

What is Dyer’s woad?

Simply drive along local highways in Bannock County or look across the rolling hills and you’ll likely see some of the green-and-yellow plants known as Dyer’s woad. Experts say it came to Idaho from Utah and has since spread rapidly.

“It produces a kind of poison to kill off any other native vegetation that’s growing with it,” said Kiel Burmester, Bannock County Public Works Director. “It can take over the area in woodlands, crops, pastures and things like that. It spreads very rapidly.”

He said the seeds are often transported by vehicles and spread across state lines. Dyer’s woad can be found along interstates and highways, as well as on hillsides and private property.

“The first year it won’t produce seeds,” Burmester said. “The second year, it’s taking all of its time to build its root system. And then, the second year it’s also working on its seeds. So the earlier you can get it, the better.”

Burmester said the best time to spray Dyer’s woad is before it begins producing seeds. Treating the plant early can help prevent future growth and reduce its spread.

“Noxious weeds do not understand your property lines,” Burmester added. “It’s all over, and it’s all of our problem here. We need to work together and try to come up with everything we can. This is going to be multi-year and it’s a very hard process to eradicate a weed like this and we need everybody’s help.”

Free weed spray from the county

Burmester said Public Works has partnered with the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, county railroad officials and the State of Idaho to tackle the issue.

He said crews are spraying county-owned property and more than 400 miles of county highways in partnership with the BLM. The county has also applied for grant funding to help private property owners control the weed.

Through the Idaho Department of Agriculture, Bannock County has secured a cost-share program to help residents combat the infestation.

“This year, we received $40,000,” Burmester said. “That can go towards helping private landowners in the Bannock County area, so if you reach out to us you can get some free spray.”

The department is encouraging residents to use the free spray if they find Dyer’s woad on their property. Burmester said even if it is too late to stop some of this year’s growth, treatment can help reduce the weed’s spread next season.

To learn more about other noxious weeds, visit the Bannock County Noxious Weeds Department website at www.bannockcounty.gov/weeds/.

Residents can receive free weed spray from the county by calling 208-236-7407.

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Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The War Bonnet Round Up is looking for local singers to perform the national anthem during this year’s rodeo at Sandy Downs.

Selected performers will sing “The Star-Spangled Banner” before one night of Idaho’s Oldest Rodeo, which runs July 29 through Aug. 1 at the Bank of Idaho Arena.

With the nation preparing to celebrate its 250th birthday, organizers say they are looking to showcase some of eastern Idaho’s best vocal talent.

“The national anthem holds immense significance at Idaho’s Oldest Rodeo, especially this year, on America’s 250th birthday,” Idaho Falls Parks and Recreation Director PJ Holm said. “We aim to showcase the finest vocal talent eastern Idaho has to offer for this patriotic and momentous occasion.”

Singers of all ages are encouraged to apply by submitting a video of themselves performing the national anthem to pholm@idahofalls.gov by July 1.

Those selected will be notified by July 10 and will receive a VIP experience for themselves and a guest on the night they perform.

The War Bonnet Round Up brings Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association competitors from across the country to Idaho Falls each year. Approximately 450 professional cowboys and cowgirls are expected to compete in events including bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, team roping and breakaway roping.

Tickets are on sale now, with prices starting at $22 for Thursday’s performance and $27 for Friday and Saturday. Children’s tickets for ages 3 to 10 are $10 per night. Parking is included with admission.

The rodeo will also kick off with the free Teton Toyota Wild West Family Fest on July 29 at Sandy Downs. The event will feature food, activities and a mini rodeo experience for families.

More information and tickets are available at warbonnetroundup.org.

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Par Kermani

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — A member of the Pocatello High School maintenance staff died early Tuesday morning while at work on campus, according to school officials.

Earlier in the day, Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 notified families that emergency responders had been called to the school for a medical emergency involving an adult.

In a statement to Local News 8, district officials confirmed the individual was a member of the school’s maintenance staff.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm a member of the Pocatello High School maintenance staff passed away early this morning while at work on campus,” the district said in a statement.

School officials said they worked closely with emergency responders and communicated with staff, students and families following the incident.

The district said there was no threat to students or staff, and classes continued as scheduled.

Out of respect for the employee and their family, the district said it would not be releasing additional details.

Full statement from Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25

“It is with great sadness that we confirm a member of the Pocatello High School maintenance staff passed away early this morning while at work on campus.

Our thoughts are with their loved ones. The school worked closely with emergency responders and took steps to communicate with staff, learners, and families.

Out of respect for the individual, their family, and the sensitive nature of this loss, we will not be sharing additional details.”

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CNN

Originally Published: 02 JUN 26 15:49 ET

By Mythili Gubbi

Click here for updates on this story

    OGDEN, Utah (KSTU) — A little girl’s trip to the emergency room a few years ago inspired a family’s mission to help others. The Mack family is trying to help kids in scary situations, one stuffed animal at a time.

“It’s scary for little people; they just don’t know,” said Alex Wilson, the emergency room manager at Ogden Regional Medical Center.

Wilson says kids can be frightened at hospitals if they are hurt or if they see a sick loved one. So having something like a stuffed animal to give them can help calm kids down.

“It’s just that little extra something that helps, that gives them that comfort and makes things better,” said Wilson.

The nonprofit “Savvy’s Stuffies” is helping keep hospital shelves stocked with comfort bears for the staff to give out.

“We are donating stuffies to hospitals to make people smile,” said 7-year-old Savannah Mack. The nonprofit is named after her because of an experience they had a few years ago.

“February of 2022, Savannah fell and we had to take her to the hospital,” said her dad, Stephen Mack. “When she got there, all she wanted was her teddy bear. The medical staff there were so fast, so quick on their feet, they blew up a medical glove and drew a face on it, and gave it to her to comfort her.”

After that, they decided to find a way to help make sure every child gets the support they need.

In May, the Mack family brought almost 100 stuffed teddy bears to MountainStar Healthcare’s Ogden Regional Medical Center.

“We try and make smaller deliveries like this because we know you guys have only so much storage,” Stephen said.

The family says they have given more than 800 bears to different hospitals, foster care organizations and law enforcement agencies to hand out to kids.

“Makes us feel great to know that our teddy bears are going to a great cause and that they’ll help,” Stephen added.

Stephen said what they do is more than just about helping kids but also teaching his daughter valuable lessons.

“It’s not always about receiving; it’s good to think outside of ourselves and give back,” he said.

Hospital staff said what they do is making a difference, whether it’s to comfort kids or help explain to them what care could look like.

“It is so helpful for us to have just that little bit of something else that we know that we have, and that we can get it for them in a moment’s notice. To see those kids’ faces, it just lights up the room when you walk in with a little stuffed animal,” said Wilson.

“We just want to give as many teddy bears out as we can,” Stephen added.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

The-CNN-Wire™ & © 2026 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

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Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) —The Idaho Falls Fire Department issued a reminder to residents about summer safety, encouraging people to take extra precautions around water, bicycles and grilling this season.

As temperatures begin to rise heading into the summer, the fire department is warning residents about the dangers of cold water caused by snowmelt.

According to a statement from the Idaho Falls Fire Department, “Sudden immersion in cold water can trigger an involuntary gasp reflex, cold-water shock, and rapid muscle failure, creating life-threatening conditions even for experienced swimmers.”

Residents should be especially cautious around the Snake River, irrigation canals, diversion structures and other waterways where strong currents, undertows and hidden hazards may be present.

Water Safety Tips

The department recommends always wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating or participating in water recreation. Officials also encourage residents to never swim alone and to closely supervise children around water at all times.

Residents are also urged to stay out of irrigation canals, where swimming, wading and tubing are prohibited and can be extremely dangerous. The department recommends checking weather and water conditions before planning activities on local waterways.

Bicycle Safety Tips

The Idaho Falls Fire Department is also encouraging bicyclists and motorists to share the road safely this summer as more people take advantage of warmer weather.

The department recommends wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet on every ride and following traffic laws when sharing the road with vehicles. Cyclists riding at night should use lights and reflectors and wear bright or reflective clothing to remain visible.

Officials are also reminding cyclists using the Idaho Falls River Walk to yield to pedestrians and provide an audible warning before passing.

Grilling Safety Tips

Summer cookouts are another popular activity this time of year, but the fire department says residents should take extra precautions when using gas and charcoal grills.

Residents are encouraged to keep grills away from buildings, decks, fences, dry vegetation and other combustible materials. Grills should never be left unattended while cooking and should always be placed on a flat, noncombustible surface.

After grilling, charcoal ashes should be thoroughly soaked with water and allowed to cool completely before disposal. Fire officials say hot coals can remain dangerous long after cooking has ended and may reignite if not properly extinguished.

“Summer is a time for making memories outdoors, but it only takes a moment for an enjoyable activity to become an emergency,” Fire Marshal Scott Grimmett said. “By taking a few simple precautions and staying aware of your surroundings, you can help protect yourself, your family, and our community all season long.”

The Idaho Falls Fire Department encourages residents to stay aware of local fire restrictions and check conditions before heading outdoors this summer.

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Par Kermani

JEROME COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) — A 66-year-old Buhl woman was killed Monday night in a two-vehicle crash north of Jerome, according to Idaho State Police.

Troopers say the crash happened around 11:08 p.m. at the intersection of East 700 North and U.S. Highway 93.

According to investigators, a 40-year-old Shoshone woman was driving a 2002 Chevrolet Equinox north on Highway 93 when a 2002 Ford F-150 traveling east on East 700 North entered the intersection.

Idaho State Police said the Ford driver failed to yield at a stop sign and collided with the Chevrolet.

The driver of the Ford died at the scene.

The driver of the Chevrolet was taken by ambulance to a local hospital. Her condition has not been released.

Idaho State Police was assisted at the scene by Jerome Fire, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Magic Valley Paramedics and the Jerome County Sheriff’s Office.

The crash remains under investigation.

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Maile Sipraseuth

BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) — A new report is raising concerns about health insurance coverage for Idaho and Wyoming’s youngest residents.

According to a report from Idaho Voices for Children, Idaho ranks among the five states with the highest rates of uninsured children younger than 6 in the nation.

“We’re seeing even higher rates of uninsured kids across the state. And primarily in this report, we’re focusing on children younger than six years old because it’s such a critical time in their early childhood for their physical, cognitive and emotional development,” Ivy Walker, policy associate for Idaho Voices for Children, said.

The report found Idaho’s uninsured rate for children under 6 increased from 5.8% in 2022 to 7.9% in 2024.

The number of uninsured children in that age group also increased during the same period. In 2022, an estimated 7,900 children younger than 6 were uninsured in Idaho. By 2024, that number had climbed to 10,700, a 36% increase in two years.

“The data that we’re seeing is just confirming what we were really fearing since the Medicaid unwinding started,” Walker said.

Idaho was one of the first states in the nation to begin reviewing Medicaid eligibility after federal pandemic-era protections expired.

Walker said the issue may be especially challenging in rural areas.

“We have seen from previous reports that there is a higher percentage of children who are covered by Medicaid in Idaho’s rural counties than in our urban areas,” Walker said.

The findings come from a report by Georgetown University’s Center for Children and Families, which examined health insurance coverage trends for young children across the country.

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