Author: KIFI

Hadley Bodell

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — The Aid for Friends Homeless Shelter in Pocatello is celebrating five years of serving the community. To mark the milestone, community leaders cut a ribbon Wednesday morning to dedicate and rename the building after Barbara Jo “BJ” Stensland, whose vision for a clean, safe space for people experiencing homelessness became a reality with the shelter.

Pocatello Chamber members, local dignitaries, including Mayor Mark Dahlquist, and staff and supporters of the organization gathered outside the building to hear from those who knew BJ. Commissioner Jeff Hough spoke about the importance of Aid for Friends to Pocatello’s homeless population, and Mayor Dahlquist reminded everyone how influential BJ was to the project.

“I see BJ’s face every time I drive by here, it puts a smile on my face,” Mayor Dahlquist told the crowd. “She was so compassionate and outgoing.”

Ribbon Cutting at Aid for Friends Homeless Shelter, July 29

He went on to say the shelter has grown into a facility that helps people experiencing homelessness feel they have dignity when they walk through the door. He described the shelter as “clean” and “a place” with many volunteer opportunities.

BJ’s husband, Mike Stensland, spoke about the example she set for others at the shelter, saying she opened her heart with compassion to those who needed it most in the community.

“Those of us who had the privilege and the opportunity to work beside her, we know how grateful and how happy she would be to see this,” he said.

BJ’s husband Mike at the July 29 dedication ceremony

The shelter offers an indoor space for people to stay for up to 90 days, along with free meals, showers, laundry services and case management. Shelter Manager Tami Moore said staff also work to connect people with other community resources to help them find more permanent housing after their stay at Aid for Friends.

“This whole vision and building is only because of BJ,” Moore said. “She had the passion, the knowledge and compassion and she had that fire to make this happen in our community.”

Moore said she worked closely with BJ during the planning process for the homeless shelter. They envisioned a place that would benefit everyone in the community, whether volunteers, staff or people in need seeking shelter or simply a place to shower.

Barbara Jo “BJ” Stensland dedication table

“There’s so much community engagement in this building, and she thought of it all,” Moore said. “That’s why we’re here celebrating. Everything is from her blood, sweat and tears. It makes sense that this building be dedicated in her honor.”

The shelter staff is committed to keeping BJ’s legacy alive by continuing to serve the community. They also work to raise awareness about homelessness and spread the word that Aid for Friends provides compassion and hope for those in need.

“These are individuals who are experiencing hardships, and they now have a safe, clean space to go,” Moore said.

Mayor Dahlquist said renaming the building was the perfect way to pay tribute to the person who started it all. He added that Pocatello benefits every day by being able to provide basic services to people who otherwise may not have access to them.

Ribbon cutting ceremony at the Aid for Friends Homeless Shelter, July 29

“There are a lot of people who come here for those basic services, and they leave and get back on their feet,” Mayor Dahlquist said. “The shelter is beautiful. You walk in, you feel like you’re welcome and like you have dignity. It’s more of a resource center for folks to come to, more than just having a roof over your head.”

Mayor Dahlquist said the building represents resilience and persistence. He said everyone encounters roadblocks when bringing an idea to life, but despite those challenges, Aid for Friends has created a special place for people in need in Pocatello.

“To me, it’s really kind of a tribute today about being persistent, having your heart in the right place and things like this come together,” Mayor Dahlquist said. “And what a special thing to have this beautiful facility named in BJ’s honor.”

Aid for Friends is always looking for volunteers to help serve meals and donate to the shelter. For more information about how you can help, visit aidforfriendspocatello.com or find Aid for Friends on Facebook.

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Seth Ratliff

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Authorities have identified the woman who died in a mobile home fire in Pocatello earlier this month.

The Bannock County Coroner’s Office confirmed Wednesday that 64-year-old Christina McCarty Varner, a resident of Pocatello, was found dead inside the home following the blaze.

RELATED: One dead after House Fire in Pocatello

Pocatello Fire Department crews responded to the report of a structure fire at the Mountain View Mobile Home and RV park on South 5th Avenue shortly after 8 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21. Firefighters arrived quickly and contained the flames to a single unit, but discovered Varner’s body during their search of the scene.

Next of kin have been notified.

“My heart goes out to Christina’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time,” Bannock County Coroner Torey Danner said in a statement.

The incident remains under investigation by Pocatello Police.

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Phillip Willis

UPDATE (3:58 PM)– A ten acre fire sparked in the original Henry’s Creek Fire area just before 1 PM. Crews successfully contained the fire, and remain on scene to monitor the area and extinguish hot spots, according to City of Idaho Falls’ Hayli Egbert.

UPDATE (9:14 AM) — New information from the Bonneville County Sheriff’s office is shedding light on the evacuations, stating that they were not forced evacuations, but rather that residents were notified to be ready to leave, and some left on their own. Crews continue to work to contain the fire, with hopes of full containment by tonight (July 29th).

According to the National Interagency Fire Center, the fire has now grown to an estimated 482 acres.

ORIGINAL — AMMON, Idaho (KIFI) — Overnight, a fire broke out at the 9900 Block of South Henry Creek Road in Ammon.

The blaze has forced the evacuation of about 15 homes from Henry’s Creek Road and South Ammon Road. Power was cut off to 79 houses.

Fire officials are strongly urging people to stay away from South Ammon Road, Henry’s Creek Road, and Taylor Mountain road as they continue their firefighting efforts.

As of 6:54 AM, the fire has reportedly burned 100 acres. Firefighters used additional engines, bulldozers, and heavy equipment to fight the fire. They were also assisted by local residents.

Idaho Falls Battalion Chief Rob Hall tells Local News 8 that a large cooperative effort between firefighter organizations in the area helped save the homes, and in some cases, the fire got as close as the back porch of some of those residences.

Idaho Falls Fire Department was assisted by City of Ammon, Henry’s Creek Fire District, Swan Valley, Ucon, WFS, BLM, and Forest Service.

The fire broke out just before midnight, and fire officials say it was not caused by lightning – the investigation is continuing.

Firefighters hope to have the fire contained by 8:00 p.m. July 29th, and controlled by 8:00 p.m. July 30th.

Chief Hall says he is extremely grateful for the cooperation and hard work of all the fire agencies of the area for their support in dealing with this extremely dangerous situation.

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David Pace

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – A Japanese delegation of 15 youth from Idaho Falls’ Sister City Tokai Mura is visiting the Gem State this week.

The group is celebrating the two cities’ 45th anniversary as Sister Cities.

“Friendship and youth is just like a very universal experience. We’re all laughing at the same things, we kind of all just listen to the same music – similar pop culture even though we’re from different nations,” said Idaho Falls Sister Cities Youth Association Student President Caroline Combs. “We’re just teenagers. It’s just very universal.”

At a special ceremony today, Idaho Falls Mayor Lisa Burtenshaw and Noriko Yamada, wife of the Mayor of Tokai Mura, unveiled two new Sister Cities plaques at the Japanese Friendship Garden.

For 10 days, the youth are spending 10 days diving into Idaho life – eating McDonalds, visiting the Farmer’s Market, playing Fortnite, going to the Idaho Falls Zoo and touring Yellowstone National Park.

“My favorite is my host family,” said Japanese Sister Cities Youth Delegate Kosuke Mogi. “I went to float river and paintball game. In the paintball, my head was shot twice, so it’s very painful, and it’s a new experience for me.”

The Japanese teenagers also shared their culture with the Mayor and their host families – teaching them how to play traditional Japanese games like kendama.

Next year, an adult delegation from Japan will visit Idaho Falls, while youth from Idaho will tour Japan.

The Idaho Falls Sister Cities Youth Association meets at 7 P.M. twice every month at the Idaho Falls Public Library. Meetings are held the first Wednesday of the month, and 12 days later on a Monday.

To learn more about how to participate in the Sister Cities program, you can visit its website.

Youth from Tokai Mura, Japan, smile at the unveiling of two new plaques, symbolizing the deep friendship between Idaho Falls and its Sister City at the Japanese Friendship Garden.

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Seth Ratliff

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Center Stage Theatre is shining a bright spotlight on its upcoming 2027 season lineup. Packed with Broadway hits, timeless classics, and deeply moving true stories, the 2027 lineup promises unforgettable magic for every kind of theatergoer.

Winter 2027 – Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Kicking off the 2027 season, Center Stage is proud to present Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by David Greig, directed by Ali Rockwood.

Kicking off the 2027 season, Center Stage presents the musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s timeless story. Follow Charlie Bucket, a young boy from humble beginnings, as he wins a coveted Golden Ticket and steps into a world of pure imagination inside Willy Wonka’s legendary chocolate factory.

“Whether it’s the original Roald Dahl book, the Gene Wilder classic, or the Tim Burton reimagining, we can all agree that this story captures our imagination effortlessly and memorably,” says Rockwood.

Spring 2027 – Les Misérables

Set against the backdrop of revolutionary France, Les Misérables tells the epic tale of Jean Valjean, a former prisoner seeking redemption while relentlessly pursued by Inspector Javert amid fierce social upheaval.

Theatre owner and Les Misérables director Justin DaBell says it’s a faux pas in the theatre community to say Les Misérables is your favorite show, but it holds a special place in his heart.

“The first musical I fell in love with was Les Mis,” DaBell shares. “It’s just so good, and so special to so many people.”

To meet overwhelming public demand, Center Stage will double-cast the show for an ambitious, extended run of 40 performances.

Fall 2027 – Come From Away

This fall, Center Stage takes on a hit musical freshly made available for regional groups: Come From Away by David Hein and Irene Sankoff, directed by Kelsey Gillis.

Come From Away is based on the true story of when the town of Gander, Newfoundland, became the haven of the passengers of 38 planes forced to land amid the 9/11 terrorist attacks. It is a stirring celebration of human connection, generosity, and hope in the darkest of times.

Christmas 2027 – A Christmas Story

Based on the beloved holiday film, this nostalgic musical follows young Ralphie Parker on his desperate quest to secure his ultimate Christmas gift: an official Red Ryder BB Gun. Along the way, the audience will laugh along with unforgettable characters, family traditions, school yard adventures, and plenty of holiday mishaps.

“I’m excited to direct this show, because it’s a show about kids and it’s for kids,’ said director DaBell.”And Christmas is special because of the children in our lives and our memories.

Summer 2027 – To Be Announced

DaBell says the Summer 2027 show announcement is coming soon. Stay tuned to Center Stage’s social media channels, HERE.

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Abi Martin

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – Democratic Candidate for U.S. Senate, David Roth, announced that he will be withdrawing from this year’s Senate Race.

In a statement released on July 28, Roth said the decision comes after careful consideration.

“I have concluded that I can make the greatest difference by focusing my time and energy on helping Democrats win up and down the ballot and in communities across Idaho,” Roth wrote. “I have been proud to do that work as a volunteer, a candidate, a supporter of fellow Democrats, and Idaho’s Democratic National Committeeman.

He expressed gratitude for all the people who believed in his campaign — volunteers, donors, and voters. He hoped that they would stay involved in their local politics to “build a better future for the state.”

He also reflected on being the first openly gay man to receive a federal nomination in the state of Idaho.

“I hope this campaign showed LGBTQ+ Idahoans, especially young people, that they belong in our politics, their voices matter, and no office should ever feel beyond their reach.” Roth wrote.

Roth said in the announcement that he will work with his team to meet their remaining financial obligations and complete the formal withdrawal process.

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Maile Sipraseuth

DRIGGS, Idaho (KIFI) — Downtown Driggs was transformed into an outdoor art studio as painters set up their easels, brushes and canvases during the Plein Air Festival.

“I just really love this town. That’s why this is the second time driving all this way. I drove all the way from Seattle here and I’m really enjoying this town. It has beautiful, beautiful scenery and just really amazing, friendly people,” Plein Air Festival artist Min Zhong said.

Barrel & Bins became a popular painting location, where artists were drawn to the store’s bright green signs and umbrellas.

For Driggs resident and Plein Air Festival artist Blake Luther, the storefront represents everything that makes downtown unique.

“Just good geometry and color and some great shadows. I love the umbrellas,” Luther said.

Some out-of-town artists found inspiration in a different landmark: the bison sculpture atop a building on Main Street.

Zhong said the bison immediately stood out as a symbol of the town.

“The bison looks really great to represent the town. I thought I’d make a little memory out of it,” Zhong said.

Connecticut artist Sam Guindon said the bison caught his attention while he was exploring Driggs.

“I was scouting around last night and I had a few spots in mind, but I really liked the bison that’s on top of the building. And I liked the blue domes on the building. It just seemed like a really interesting spot,” Guindon said.

The Plein Air Festival continues with artists painting throughout Teton Valley before showcasing and selling their completed works.

For more information, visit downtowndriggs.org.

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Hadley Bodell

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – A tradition born from tragedy is back in Pocatello for the twelfth year– the annual Parrish Family 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament. The competition serves as a fundraiser for the NO C.O. Foundation and the Chubbuck Lions Club, as well as an opportuity to raise awareness about carbon monoxide poisoning.

In an incident that shook the community, Bill Parrish, his wife Ross, and their two young sons died in their sleep from carbon monoxide poisoning in 2014. Carri Parrish Curtis, Bill’s sister and vice president of the NO C.O. Foundation explained a hot water heater malfunctioned and emitted the toxic gas throughout the night.

“The furnace was of course, running because it was February, and it sucked that carbon monoxide being released from the hot water heater into the vents to the house and pushed it throughout the house while they were sleeping,” Parrish Curtis said.

The remaining family members learned a valuable lesson: death by CO poisoning is preventable.

“We want to make sure that this never happens to anybody else ever again,” Parrish Curtis said. “As long as we have more people become educated and have detectors in their home, so we started the NO C.O. Foundation.”

The foundation provides free CO detectors to anyone in need. Unlike functioning smoke alarms, in order to buy or rent a living space, a carbon monoxide detector is not required. Parrish Curtis said others have suffered from vacation rentals not being equipped with a detector, leading the foundation to provide portable equipment.

Just three months after the tragedy in the Parrish family, Carri and her husband decided to host a basketball tournament in honor and memory of their lost loved ones.

“My brother is a big basketball player, he played college ball and raised his kids to play basketball, so it’s a love of all of our family,” Parrish Curtis said. “We thought of it to commemorate them and remember them and do a fundraiser for the Lions Club.”

The Chubbuck Lions Club is a service organization focused on restoring eyesight and hearing for local people. The Parrish family combined forces with them to create the perfect event for the community.

“It’s not just to create awareness and fundraise, it’s to create a fun event where we’ve got food, live music and high energy basketball,” Parrish Curtis said.

She said all ages are welcome to compete, from eight years old to 88. The divisions are split into men’s and women’s as well as by skill level categories. The event has grown to nearly 100 teams each year.

“We were wishing and crossing our fingers for 20 to 30 teams total, and it has grown and spread across all the divisons,” she said. “We’re so grateful for all the support, we want to make sure everyone gets to play.”

Their main focus post-tournament is to turn the funds around right back into the community, including to purchase and distribute more carbon monoxide detectors across the region. At the basketball tournament under the NO C.O. Foundation tent, visitors can grab a free detector. They’re also asking anyone with extra glasses lying around to come donate them to the Chubbuck Lions Club at the tournament.

Each registered player gets a Parrish Family T-shirt. Parrish Curtis said they switch colors each year, and 2026 is the year of coral. This year’s event will also have a focus on cooling stations, with misters, water guns and hydration stations available to keep all players safe during the heat advisory.

Parrish Curtis said she’s already had multiple families tell her how the detectors saved their lives.

“Two more people who have come to the tournament and got carbon monoxide detectors, their lives were saved because they had a leak in their home,” she said. “Otherwise, without those detectors, they went off when they were already sleeping, so they could’ve not made it.”

The tournament begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 31. Opening ceremonies are at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 1 with tournament play to follow. Sign-ups for teams are still open through Thursday, July 30. To register, visit chubbucklions.org.

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Kaelyn Blessinger

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The federal government is proposing to give Idaho, Montana and Wyoming greater authority to manage grizzly bear populations.

Since 1975, grizzly bears have been a protected species under the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, meaning only the federal agency can handle anything regarding a grizzly bear’s status.

In 1993, the federal organization created a recovery plan to boost the species population. Since then, there have been cases, starting back in 2017, to remove grizzlies from the protected species list.

This proposal would allow specific state organizations to capture and kill grizzlies under their own terms instead of the federal governments. The move could increase flexibility for grizzly bear management in the areas where species have met or exceeded federal recovery benchmarks.

Sens. Jim Risch, Mike Crapo, along with Gov. Brad Little have applauded the move, each stating that the grizzly population have exceeded recovery goals and that management should be left to each state.

“It’s abundantly clear Idaho’s grizzly bear populations have widely exceeded recovery goals,” Risch said. “Increasing state authority to manage grizzly bears ensures our own local wildlife agencies, who understand Idaho’s environment best, can follow the science and make commonsense conservation decisions without bureaucratic inefficiencies.”

“The recovery of the grizzly bear in the West is a conservation success story made possible by decades of work from state, tribal, federal and local conservation partners,” Crapo said. “For years, I have advocated for returning grizzly bear management to the states as recovery objectives and benchmarks have been achieved. Secretary Burgum’s announcement moves us one step closer to allowing Idaho wildlife professionals to manage a recovered grizzly population in a way that protects both the species and Idaho communities.”

“Idaho has proven we can successfully conserve grizzly bears while responsibly managing wildlife and protecting our communities,” Little said. “This proposal is another important step toward returning wildlife management to the states, where decisions are guided by science and those closest to the land. I appreciate President Trump and Secretary Burgum for recognizing what Idaho has long maintained – that recovered grizzly populations should be managed by the states, not Washington, D.C.”

For more information about the proposal, you can visit the United States Fish & Wildlife Service.

You can submit your comment here.

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Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Drivers traveling between Idaho Falls and Rigby should expect nighttime traffic shifts and temporary exit closures beginning this week as the Idaho Transportation Department enters the next phase of its U.S. Highway 20 resurfacing project.

According to the Idaho Transportation Department, overnight work is expected to begin Tuesday evening at Hitt Road. Crews will remove a portion of the existing pavement. Speed limits will be reduced through the work zone, with repaving scheduled for next week.

ITD said work at the remaining interchange areas will follow a similar schedule and expected to be complete by mid-August.

During that time crews will begin resurfacing on and off ramps one ramp at a time. Drivers will be able to use neighboring U.S. 20 exits as detours while work is underway.

“These closures and traffic shifts mark the end of this project to help create a smoother, safer ride for drivers,” ITD Project Manager John Cleveland said. “Repaving this busy route will help the road serve Idaho and any visiting traffic for years to come.”

Specific areas where crews are working will be noted in detail on the Idaho 511 app and at 511.idaho.gov.

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