Author: KIFI

Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Flu season is here, and Idaho is experiencing some of the nation’s highest flu activity in the nation.

The CDC’s latest surveillance map places Idaho among the states with elevated case numbers. Local reports of flu activity are increasing, driven partly by a variant that has been dubbed by news sites and social media as the “super flu.”

According to the Center For Disease Control and Prevention, that variant of the Flu is known for spreading quickly and efficiently .

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare officials emphasized that annual vaccination remains the most effective defense against the virus.

Despite the rise in cases, the Department of Health and Welfare is urging residents to follow standard precautions to curb the spread of all viruses. These reminders are especially critical as people resume their normal routines after holiday gatherings.

To support overall health and prevent viral transmission, officials recommend the following:

Vaccination: Get a flu vaccine every year if you have not already done so.

Hygiene: Wash hands frequently.

Avoidance: Avoid people who are sick.

Isolation: Stay home when you are ill to prevent spreading viruses to others.

Wellness: Get enough sleep, eat nutritious food and stay hydrated.

The CDC typically sees the national peak of influenza activity between December and February. This season, the high activity levels are being reported early in the new year.

To learn more

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Ariel Jensen

IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO (KIFI) – It’s a new day, a new year, and a new you. That’s the mindset for many people on January 1. When picking a New Year’s resolution, many choose to live a healthier lifestyle as their goal.

“Start now instead of later. It’s a great way to put that first step in,” said Isaac Luna, membership coordinator at Gold’s Gym. “It’s a really good way to break the ice and feel uncomfortable. You’re supposed to feel uncomfortable to improve. Change is scary, but that’s the best part of the journey.”

Local News 8 spoke with gym trainers at Gold’s Gym in Idaho Falls. They tell us that every year, people want to lose weight. This year, they have noticed more people are setting a goal to build muscle and get stronger.

It’s commonly known that people tend to fall short of their New Year’s goals. Gym trainers suggest including a friend in your goal-making to help you stay on track. 

“So the biggest thing for me is accountability, right? So I myself, I even have a coach, said John Morton, personal trainer at Gold’s Gym. “I’m doing bodybuilding, and he keeps me accountable. So the best thing that I have to offer for somebody else is find somebody to keep you accountable. That’ll help you the most.”

There’s also helpful information about setting healthy lifestyle goals on the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare website. They suggest setting realistic goals, focusing on small, consistent steps. They also recommend prioritizing mental health along with physical health. 

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Danielle Mullenix

Welcome to 2026!

For New Year’s Day, we’ll continue to see scattered snow and rain showers throughout the day. This comes after a dry, cooler end to the final days of 2025. A wintry mix of precipitation is possible with high temperatures in the mid to upper 30’s. There is a tiny window for freezing rain and drizzle at the leading edge of rainfall on Thursday afternoon. We could get a quick blast of snowfall, then mix with freezing rain throughout the day.

Light rain and snow will spread north on New Year’s Day. Little to no impacts from snowfall are expected. New snow accumulation of less than half an inch is possible for the Snake River Plain. Light winds are expected throughout the day, with winds only reaching 5 mph. Rain and snow will continue into the later hours of Thursday night, with a low temperature of around 30°.

It will be mostly cloudy on Friday, with a few spots of rain and snow. Temperatures will remain mild and above average for this time of year, with a high near 40°. A bit windy, with southwest winds around 10-15 mph, gusts as high as 20 mph.

There is a chance of rain and snow for late Saturday. High temperatures will climb into the mid-40s for the Snake River Plain. More scattered rain and mountain snow for Sunday as highs once again reach the 40’s.

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David Pace

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – The New Year has arrived – and with it a flurry of resolutions to power goal-setters toward healthier, better lives.

From relationship goals to spending more time with loved ones, getting out of debt to going on a dream vacation – people throughout eastern Idaho are taking charge and implementing plans for self-improvement as we all push aside the holiday junk food and tackle real issues to enhance our lives.

Here are a smattering of resolutions from your friends and neighbors in the greater Idaho Falls region.

“For 2026, I’m planning on finishing my master’s degree and starting to be a teacher for preschool,” said Idaho Falls resident Ann Caruso.

Idaho Falls High School Math Teacher Sharon Oliver is focusing on incremental improvements in her personal life.

“Personal organization, taking time for friends, taking time for relaxation and health, then just making the most of every day,” she said.

Todd DeVries, a local clinical therapist / social worker, is reaching out to friends for a European vacation.

“I’m excited because I have a trip to Vienna planned, and my New Year’s resolution is to intentionally have more fun this year,” DeVries said.

Local resident Rick Whittaker is starting January off with a brisk jaunt.

“My New Year’s resolution is to get 25 pounds off. So I’m here with my dog right now, just kind of getting started walking,” he said.

Rigby residents Melanie and Kennedy Sullivan set multiple objectives for the coming year.

“I’m trying to find the goals for the five F’s – which is faith, family, finances, fitness, and friends,” Melanie said.

Her daughter Kennedy is prepping for a Color Run at Utah State.

Norman Southworth said he’s hoping to enjoy his retirement and stay healthy.

“I don’t make New Year’s resolutions. I usually just fix problems as they come along,” Southworth said.

Finally, Desiree Nason emphasized personal care.

“My main New Year’s resolution is to get my mind healthy,” she said. “So focus on myself, don’t worry about saying no if it upsets other people, and just being able to live my life and be happy.”

All these resolutions may spark additional ideas for ways you can improve this year.

Idaho Falls area residents share their New Year’s resolutions along the River Walk.

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David Pace

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – Guests at the Idaho Falls Snow Park are in for a wild ride this winter.

The popular snow tubing park is open for the New Year in Bone, Idaho.

Dozens of people flew down steep slopes, caught air on a massive jump and enjoyed full winter fun on ice-packed snow at the grand opening on Wednesday.

In spite of warmer temperatures, the owner says the manmade snow is here to stay at the careening snow park east of Idaho Falls.

“We’re making snow so you can make memories,” said Jamie Rhoda, Idaho Falls Snow Park owner. “What we want to do is have you guys come out to have a good time. Whether we have snow or not, as long as the weather’s cold enough, we make the snow so you guys can come out and enjoy it.”

The park is in its fourth year and features three tube runs that stretch 1200 feet downhill.

Local News 8 reporter David Pace flies into the air on the ‘Big Jump’ at the Idaho Falls Snow Park.

“We provide tubes, bathrooms, parking, conveyor magic carpet ride, and then we have fire pits, indoor/outdoor seating,” Rhoda said. “So all you have to do is show up in your winter clothes.”

A four-hour session on the hill costs $15.

“What I like about the ski hill is that, sometimes you go flying and sometimes you don’t, but it’s still a little fun,” said snowtuber Ila Echler.

The Jackson family, from Idaho Falls, spent the entire afternoon with friends and family.

“I think my favorite part is when all of us link together and you just start spinning,”  said snow tuber extraordinaire Tyler Jackson.

With a major jump, the park promises plenty of surprises.

“When you’re, like, at the bottom, it sprays you in the face,” Carina Jackson said. “And also, I like going in a group.”

The park is located at 207 Bone Road, Iona, and will be open for the rest of Christmas break and all winter long.

For tickets, operating hours, and more information visit IdahoFallsSnowPark.com.

A line of snow tubers rides the magic carpet to the top of the hill at Wednesday’s grand opening.

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David Pace

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (KIFI) – The family, friends, and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said goodbye to President Jeffrey R. Holland on Wednesday.

Holland, 85, was serving as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles when he died from complications of kidney disease.

His funeral was held at the Salt Lake Tabernacle on Temple Square.

Holland is the husband of Patricia Holland, proud father of three children and grandfather of thirteen.

He was ordained an apostle in 1994 and previously served for nine years as President of Brigham Young University.

Holland was known for his firebrand missionary work and touching sermons that reached out to millions around the world.

“My father was an irresistible force for righteousness,” said his son Elder Matthew S. Holland, of the Quorum of the Seventy. “His unique gifts for friendship, intellect, language, and mirth disarmed and drew in virtually anyone who came within his orbit.”

President Jeffrey R. Holland meets with Jewish leaders, including his friend the late-U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman, at the BYU-Jerusalem Center in Israel. | Courtesy The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

His daughter Mary Alice McCann emphasized her dad was gave his life to “succor the weak, lift up the hands that hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees.”

“Jeffrey R. Holland was an apostle of hope,” she said. “He believed in the redemption of Jesus Christ, and that through him and because of him all things would be made right.”

The church’s prophet, President Dallin H. Oaks, paid personal tribute to the man with whom he served as an apostle for more than three decades.

“President Jeffrey R Holland left a huge mark – loving personal memories of his influence and his unforgettable testimony of God – on all that he touched,” Oaks said.

President Holland will be buried Thursday in his home of Saint George, Utah, next to his wife who died in 2023.

President Jeffrey R. Holland smiles in his office in Salt Lake City. | Courtesy The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

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News Release

The following is a news release from the Idaho Department of Education.

(BOISE) – The U.S. Department of Education announced today that the federal grant program supporting essential staff in Idaho’s community schools will continue, reversing a previous decision that had deemed the program ineligible for funding based on its perceived alignment with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

The earlier decision would have frozen nearly $30 million in funding previously awarded to United Way of Treasure Valley (UWTV) as part of a five-year grant scheduled to run through 2028.

“This decision affirms that Community Schools are both effective and fully aligned with federal and state law, and that they reflect the values Idaho families care about most—strong schools and strong families,” said Superintendent Debbie Critchfield. “I’m grateful to the U.S. Department of Education for engaging in a thorough review and for continuing to support this essential program.”

The Full-Service Community Schools State Scaling Grant was awarded to UWTV in 2023 and provides $45.9 million over five years to support 65 schools statewide, including 47 rural public schools. The grant funds services that improve literacy and STEM achievement, expand after-school and career-technical programs, and strengthen access to mental health and family support services. Each organization is locally led by school districts in partnership with families and community organizations. 

“This program works because it respects families as partners in education, and when parents have access to workforce training, healthcare, or adult education, their children benefit,” said Critchfield. “I want to thank United Way of Treasure Valley for its diligent work administering—and defending—this grant. Their leadership has made a real difference when it comes to strengthening our schools, our communities, and Idaho’s future.” 

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch previously submitted a letter to the Department of Education on December 18 in support of the appeal and in favor of keeping the program intact through its original five-year term.

“Idaho has long been a leader in rooting out DEI in our education system,” said Governor Brad Little. “I was pleased to learn the U.S. Department of Education restored Idaho’s grant funding after recognizing the work we have done to eliminate DEI in our programs. The decision confirms these funds were not being used to promote DEI initiatives.”

United Way of Treasure Valley had warned that the earlier decision placed more than 60 full-time staff positions at risk, including community coordinators who connect students and families with food pantries, dental clinics, mental health providers, job training, and GED programs.

For more information about Community Schools in Idaho, visit the Idaho Coalition for Community Schools at idahocoalitionforcommunityschools.org.

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Ariel Jensen

KELLY CANYON SKI RESORT, Idaho (KIFI) – Idaho is well known for its cold winters, and locals recognize that this is not normal weather this season. 

Kelly Canyon Ski Resort, near Ririe, is working hard to make its own snow and provide skiers with a winter wonderland.

“We had a really rough start to the year,” said Sam Whitlock, Director of Revenue for the ski resort. “We have spent a lot of time and energy recently investing in our snowmaking. We have great snowmakers. They’re here most nights, all night long, making snow.”

Making snow is nothing new for them. However, in years past, these machines were used to enhance the existing snow. They have now become the cornerstone of making skiing a reality.

“Just complete bare dirt. Just dirt and grass,” said Ryan Mead, lead snowmaker for the hill.  

Mead says making snow requires significant time and effort. “Usually for a run about the size behind me is a, I would say about 2 to 3 days of good, solid 24-hour snowmaking,” Mead said.

People shiver with excitement in a not-so-cold winter.

“Well, the public wants to come ski, and we enjoy seeing people up here. I also thoroughly enjoy making snow, so it’s a great time for everyone,” Whitlock said.

A winter of more rain than snow won’t loom over Kelly Canyon as their team paints a colorful future ahead.

“We just want to lower the barrier of entry to get people on the hill. So, what we can do when there’s not a lot of snow is just make it a nice, welcoming environment. Later this year, we’re going to have a lot of fun things going on. Fun events. So while we can’t control the snow, we can make it as fun as possible,” Whitlock said.

Kelly Canyon plans to be open through the winter, but warmer conditions could change that. 

Be sure to check out their Facebook page for any updates. 

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News Release

The following is a news release from Idaho Lottery.

BOISE, Idaho – Long time lottery player and sixth generation Idahoan Sean Klingler, Rigby, claimed one of the $1,000,000 prizes from the popular Idaho Lottery game, the Idaho $1,000,000 Raffle.

“I was at the local store having coffee and started checking some of my lottery tickets.  I had eight Raffle tickets and when the clerk checked them, she told me I had won $100,000,” explained Klingler on how he found out he had the winning ticket. “I didn’t believe her.  I thought maybe it was $100.  Then she said to me, ‘no I got it wrong, you won $1,000,000!’  There was a lot of high fiving in the store after that!”

After he signed the winning ticket, he called his wife and daughter to share the good news, then they all drove immediately to Boise to claim his winnings late Tuesday afternoon.  

“Nobody believes you at first, that you won. They think you’re messing with them,” he told Lottery officials once he arrived in Boise.  “That’s why we’re taking a lot of pictures here. The big check will help, too.”

Klingler plans to take a responsible approach with his winnings.  He is going to pay off a few high-interest debts, buy his wife a new car, then put the majority toward his future retirement.  

“I’ve been playing the Lottery for a long time,” said a joyful Klingler when he received his winnings. “You dream about winning and when it finally comes true, it’s weird.”

The $1,000,000 prize from this year’s Raffle game sold in Kootenai County remains unclaimed.  That ticket number is 326200.  Also, the $100,000 sold in Payette County is also unclaimed.  That winning number is 271072.  Players are encouraged to check all their tickets for winners.

$50,000 Winner from Pocatello

Part of winning the Lottery is the thrill of getting to “call in rich” to work, even if it is only for one day.  That’s what Kurt Blaisdell of Pocatello did when he discovered he was the $50,000 winner from this year’s Idaho $1,000,000 Raffle!  Even though he has to return to work tomorrow, after claiming his $50,000 prize, the one big thing he plans to do with his winnings is to get his fiancé an engagement ring! (No spoilers, she was there when he announced it!).

Looking for a $500,000 Winner from Bannock County

The Idaho Lottery is also looking for a winner from Bannock County who had a Lucky for Life ticket for the Christmas Day draw.  The winning ticket matched all five of the first numbers but not the Lucky Ball and is worth $25,000 a year for life.  The winning numbers for the Christmas Day draw were 23, 29, 31, 37 ,45 and the Lucky Ball was 16.  Players are encouraged to check their tickets for winners.

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News Release

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

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (News Release) – Demolition of the old water tower is scheduled to begin Monday, Jan. 5.  Activities next week will include crane/site setup, with tower removal activities anticipated to begin Friday, Jan. 9.

Demolition will begin at the top of the structure and progress downward, with sections being removed by cranes and specialized equipment. The removal of the old tower is anticipated to be completed in February.

Some parts of the tower have been selected for preservation, while most of the materials will be recycled. Distribution of individual pieces to the general public is unavailable due to safety and logistical issues.

Minimal traffic interruptions are expected. Short-term flagging operations on Capital Avenue may occur as equipment is delivered to the site. No major road closures are anticipated, but some minor interruptions may occur at the Idaho Falls Power building main entrance. Library parking will remain accessible throughout the project. 

“This project is an important investment in the reliability and resiliency of Idaho Falls’ water system,” said Chris Fredericksen, Idaho Falls Public Works director. “By replacing the 89-year-old tower, we are ensuring safe, reliable water service for our community for generations to come.”

The water tower is a critical component of the city’s potable water system, maintaining pressure for multiple wells and providing stored, pressurized water for power outages and firefighting. Built in 1937, the 500,000-gallon tower has served the community for decades and is being replaced as part of a long-term investment in Idaho Falls’ water infrastructure. The new elevated water tower will hold 1 million gallons, doubling storage capacity, strengthening system reliability and enhancing the city’s overall water infrastructure.

The city honored the tower’s legacy through the Water Tower Tribute, a series of community events held over the past year, culminating in an October block party celebrating the tower and its role in Idaho Falls’ history.

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