Category: kifi-local-news

David Pace

ARCO, Idaho (KIFI) – As Artemis II prepares to splash down in the Pacific Ocean Friday – achieving speeds of 25,000 miles per hour during re-entry – it’s time to look back on America’s previous successful lunar landings, and the Idaho connection that helped make them possible. 

With the eyes of the world glued to the Artemis Mission and its trip around the moon, Craters of the Moon National Monument has a historic role – serving as a training ground for astronauts here in eastern Idaho.

Apollo 14 enters Idaho’s orbit

“Apollo is fundamental for us being able to reach for the stars,” said Shannon Kobs Nawotniak, a NASA-funded Researcher and Idaho State University (ISU) Geosciences Department Chair. “Before Apollo, that was sort of an imaginary concept. The idea that we could actually send people to the moon – that was a fairy tale, and Apollo took that from fairy tale to reality.”

In the late 1960s, crews for the Apollo 14 mission arrived at Craters of the Moon, eager to learn from one of Earth’s most lunar-like lava landscapes.

“In 1969, that’s when the four astronauts came out,” said Craters of the Moon Chief of Interpretation and Education Michael Irving. “So August of 1969, they came out and did their training in geology here.”

The astronauts Alan Shepard, Joe Engle, Eugene Cernan, and Edgar Mitchell belonged to Apollo 14’s primary and backup crews.

“These gentlemen had to be experts, more or less, in volcanic geology in order to help bring back the most valuable information that they could,” Irving said.  

But first, the astronauts, who were military pilots and not trained scientists, needed to learn more about geology.

At Craters of the Moon, the four explorers were taught how to identify valuable geologic specimens on their future space voyages.

“The Apollo missions were really about, could we actually bring people up and bring them down?” Kobs Nawotniak said. “There was science that was achieved; it was important, but it wasn’t driven by science.”

The astronauts also visited locations in Hawai’i and Iceland for their training.

Destination – The Moon

It was the golden age of space travel. 

“Alan Shepard was the first American and the second human to ever go to space,” Irving said. “So he was then involved with a number of space flights and activities in between his first launch and there. But he was able to go up on Apollo 14.”

Apollo 14 launched from Kennedy Space Center on January 31, 1971.

The astronauts’ geology training at Craters of the Moon paid off.

Apollo 14 was the third manned space mission to land on the moon.  

Commander Shepard became the first man to golf on the moon.

He also collected a 19-pound moon rock named “Big Bertha.” Scientists later discovered it contained a 4-billion-year-old meteorite that had come from the Earth, making the discovery the oldest known Earth rock in the galaxy. 

In total, Shepherd and Mitchell brought home 95 pounds of moon rocks back to Earth.

Later in Apollo 17, the last man to walk on the moon, Eugene Cernan, also received his training at Craters of the Moon.

Cernan commanded the Apollo 17 mission. He and fellow astronaut Harrison Schmitt brought home 4.5-billion-year-old specimens formed deep in the Moon’s crust.

“It’s the exact same material that is erupting here [in Idaho] as we have forming the moon,” Kobs Nawotniak said. “So it gives us really, really fantastic comparisons.”

Researchers from NASA and Idaho State University continue to push the boundaries of space exploration right here on Earth.

“You can crawl through lava tubes here at Craters of the Moon. They’re going to give you an experience just like the ones that we have up on the moon,” Kobs Nawotniak said. “The scoria cones that we have here, we’ve actually got some features that are like that on the moon. We’ve got lava flow fields on the moon that look like the ones that we have here.”

For future space explorers, a world as far away as the moon can sometimes land in your own backyard.

“If you want to be part of this Artemis mission, this Artemis expedition, Artemis future, you need to come to Craters of the Moon and experience Artemis and the moon right here in Idaho, because it is an unparalleled resource,” Kobs Nawotniak said.

The Apollo 14 Lunar Module lands on the Moon in February 1971.

Click here to follow the original article.

Hadley Bodell

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – Calling all Pocatello poets! The Marshall Public Library in Pocatello is celebrating 25 years of their annual Poetry Wall throughout the month of April in honor of National Poetry Month.

Community members of all ages are encouraged to submit their poems for the wall. Elementary students and seniors have already been featured in this year’s collection.

“Anyone can be a poet,” said Trina Bonman, Associate Director of the Marshall Public Library. “You don’t have to write serious poetry, anyone can come up with a few lines of verse. And this is a really cool way for our community to share poetry.”

The yearly tradition was started in 2001 by a local librarian and poet, Joan Juskie. Now, the wall stands as an outlet for community members to share their work with others and honor her legacy. After each Poetry Wall, the works are placed in a community collection for people to continue to enjoy.

“We’ve had entire classes of kids do poetry before, so that’s really fun,” Bonman said. “Sometimes it’s art and poem that goes along with it, we love to see that. Anything, any style, the word poetry where it makes different shapes, or even a few lines. We will take anything and everything and put it up.”

You can bring in a paper copy of your poem to the library or submit through email.

“It’s just exciting to see what the community comes up with, what they feel like expressing,” Bonman said. “It’s cool to see that even in a community like Pocatello, Idaho, we have this much poetry to share.”

More information about submissions is available on the library website at marshallpl.org.

Click here to follow the original article.

Hadley Bodell

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – Golfers in Pocatello will soon have a new place to rest between rounds. The Riverside Golf Course is getting a two-story, 3,700 square foot new clubhouse sponsored by Connections Credit Union.

The clubhouse is made possible by a donation from Connections Credit Union and will feature an indoor golf simulator, restaurant, pro shop and a large patio space for guests to enjoy.

“This is an exciting step forward for Riverside Golf Course,” said Anne Butler, Director of Parks and Recreation in Pocatello. “We’re thrilled to see this project move into the construction phase and look forward to providing an unpdated clubhouse that will better serve golfers and visitors for years to come.”

Parking will be adjusted throughout the duration of the construction project. Golf cart trailers will not be allowed in the main parking lot, but additional parking areas are marked to accomodate golfers during this time.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive earlier than normal for their tee times and drive cautiously on the Bannock Highway during the construction. Pocatello Parks and Recreation is grateful for the community’s patience and support as the highly anticipated project moves forward.

The new clubhouse is expected to open in time for the 2027 golf season.

Click here to follow the original article.

Dylan Carder

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – New concerns over Idaho’s water supply outlook after the latest report from the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The big picture message from the report is that Idaho is heading into a difficult water year.

The state’s snowpack peaked at 68% of normal this year. That is one of the lowest on record since they began taking measurements in the 1930’s. The snowpack also peaked on March 17, that is about three weeks earlier than usual.

The record temperatures in March has added to the tough situation. In just a month, the Snake River in Heise saw its streamflow forecast drop by a million acre-feet. Around 25% of the snowpack had already melted away by April 1. Having the little snow that did fall melt sooner will lead to a shorter runoff season.

Nearby Upper Snake sub-basins are also looking bleak. Henry’s Fork and Teton Basin are both severely dry. Some areas are approaching historic drought levels.

Irrigation in the area will be impacted with demand likely exceeding the natural flow much earlier than usual. This could be especially problematic for users without reservoir storage and those without groundwater backup.

The next month could be critical for this years outlook. If the warm and dry spring continues, there will be low summer river levels and officials warn there could be no recovery for the streamflow. Users are strongly recommended to plan on using the the 70% or 90% forecasts to decrease their risk of running out of water.

See the full report here.

The next meeting to update the outlook is tentatively scheduled for May 20.

Click here to follow the original article.

Seth Ratliff

POWER COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) — Authorities have identified the suspect responsible for a violent shooting that left two Pocatello residents dead and two others injured in northern Power County last Friday, April 3.

Bannock County Coroner Torey Danner identified the suspect as Richard Todd Forrest, 63, of Pocatello.

RELATED: Coroner names Pocatello residents killed in Friday shooting along Tank Farm Road

According to investigators, Forrest allegedly shot and killed Brandon Lee Madden, 40, and Amanda Ann Christian, 36, at a home along Tank Farm Road. Two additional victims were injured during the attack, but both are in stable condition.

Forrest was subsequently shot and killed by responding law enforcement officers after he brandished his firearm toward them.

Bannock County has confirmed Forrest’s next of kin has been notified.

“Our office is committed to a standard of absolute accuracy and compassion. When family resides out of state, the logistics of locating and notifying them personally becomes more complex, but it is a necessary step. Ensuring a family hears this news from a professional—not from a news headline or a social media post—is a matter of respect that we will not compromise on,” said Bannock County Coroner Torey Danner.

Power County Sheriff Kasey Kendall urged the public to avoid spreading rumors as the investigation continues.

“We ask for the community’s continued patience as our investigators work through the complexities of this case. At this stage, speculation only hinders the process. We will provide a clear and factual account of the events as soon as it is responsible to do so,” said Power County Sheriff Kasey Kendall.

Two separate investigations are currently underway to handle the events of the shooting. Power County Sheriff’s Office continues to be assisted in the homicide investigation by Idaho State Police, Power County Coroner’s Office, and Bannock County Coroner’s Office. The Idaho Falls Police Department remains the lead agency for the investigation into the officer-involved shooting.

Authorities are also preparing to release a critical incident video to provide transparency regarding the officer-involved shooting. Bannock County confirms that further details regarding the motive and circumstances of the initial shooting will be shared as the investigation continues.

Click here to follow the original article.

Seth Ratliff

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Bonneville County Prosecutor’s Office is publicly speaking out against a sentence handed down to an Idaho Falls man found guilty of felony battery on a police officer, arguing the light punishment fails to deter violence against law enforcement.

Wednesday, Seventh District Judge Brendon Taylor sentenced 33-year-old Christian James Markmiller to four years of probation and a “withheld judgment” following a two-day jury trial. The decision comes despite the state’s request for a five-year prison sentence.

“The wrong message”

In a Facebook post, Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney Randy Neal expressed deep concern that the sentence sends the wrong message to the public.

“I am concerned that this sentence does not reflect the type of deterrent necessary to keep officers safe,” Neal stated in a press release. “There has to be a message that assaulting police officers carries with it a significant consequence. Mr. Markmiller continues to show a defiant, contemptuous attitude and a disrespect for the jury’s verdict.”

The “First Amendment Audit” Incident

The case stems from a confrontation on June 13, 2025. According to court documents, Markmiller approached and began filming Idaho Falls Police officers as they investigated a report of an impaired driver.

The Officers reportedly told Markmiller he could video the traffic stop from a safe distance, but the 33-year-old continued to approach, circling and shouting at them. When ordered to “step no closer,” Markmiller refused.

As an officer attempted to arrest him for interference, Markmiller hit the officer in the head and continued to resist until he was tackled and handcuffed.

During the trial, Markmiller argued that his actions were protected under the First Amendment, claiming he had a “duty” to disobey what he perceived as an unlawful order. Neal, however, categorized Markmiller’s behavior as a “First Amendment audit,” a trend where individuals film police to provoke a reaction. While Neal acknowledged the right to record, he emphasized that the First Amendment is not “absolute” and does not grant immunity for physical violence.

Understanding the Sentence

Under Idaho law, a withheld judgment is a sentencing tool where a judge places a defendant on probation without formally entering a judgment of conviction.

If Markmiller successfully completes his probation, he can petition the court to dismiss the case entirely, effectively wiping the felony from his record. State law only allows a defendant to use this option once in a lifetime.

The state had argued strongly against this outcome, citing the severity of the felony battery.

Markmiller was given credit for 72 days already served in jail following his conviction on January 27, 2026. He must now comply with all terms of his probation, including fines and community service, or risk having the withheld judgment revoked and potentially serving a prison sentence.

Click here to follow the original article.

Hadley Bodell

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Pocatello police responded to a report of an armed individual in the City Hall parking lot at around 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8.

Officials tell us the report stated a male subject made threats to harm department employees and was believed to be in the parking lot of the Pocatello Police Department.

According to City of Pocatello Public Information Officer Marlise Irby, employees in the City Hall were instructed to lock down and stay inside while police investigated the threat. Any people in the parking lot were taken inside the building by officers.

“Due to the seriousness of the threat and the subject’s reported proximity, both the Pocatello Police Department and the City of Pocatello offices were placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure,” stated the Pocatello Police Department as of 4:52 p.m.

Pocatello police were reportedly able to locate the threat in Chubbuck, and the lockdown was lifted at approximately 11:50 a.m. The public was asked to avoid the area during this time.

The investigation has since been passed to the Chubbuck Police Department.

Click here to follow the original article.

Danielle Mullenix

UPDATE:

KELLOGG, Idaho (KIFI) — The Kellogg City Council unanimously passed an Ordinance banning the sale of Kratom within city limits, making it the first in the Gem State to do so as efforts to regulate or outlaw the substance continue to gain traction across Idaho.

Ordinance 645 is effective immediately for new retailers. The Chief of Police, Paul Twidt has given existing retailers until May 8th to remove it from their inventory.

This vote could encourage other cities to follow suit, with several nearby communities signaling efforts to enact similar ordinances.

ORIGINAL:

Kellogg, ID (KIFI) — A small North Idaho city could soon become the first in the state to ban the sale of kratom, as broader efforts to regulate or outlaw the substance continue to gain traction statewide.

As of April 7th, the Kellogg City Council is proposing a resolution to prohibit the sale of kratom within city limits, a move that could catalyze similar actions in other Idaho communities.

Kratom is a plant-based substance derived from the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, indigenous to Southeast Asia. It is primarily used to relieve muscle pain, boost alertness and energy, and reduce stress. Currently, it is sold without specific regulation in Idaho and many other states. However, concerns over its safety and lack of regulation are fueling renewed scrutiny at both the local and state levels.

“The problem is that there are no state or federal regulations on this, on this stuff,” explains Kellogg Police Chief Paul Twidt. “There are some safer versions, and there are some synthetic, higher doses that are really, in my opinion, dangerous. There’s a reason why they nicknamed it the gas station heroin.”

In East Idaho, officials have already linked kratom to multiple deaths. According to Bonneville County Coroner Shante Sanchez, the county has documented six kratom-related deaths within a year, prompting calls for stricter oversight and public awareness.

Kellogg city officials and law enforcement are weighing the ban amid growing concerns about potential health risks and accessibility. If approved, the ban would make Kellogg the first city in Idaho to take such action, signaling a shift toward tighter local control over the substance.

While details of enforcement and penalties are still under discussion, the proposal reflects increasing pressure on local governments to address substances that currently fall into regulatory gray areas.

The Kellogg City Council will make its final decision on the proposed ban at its meeting this evening. If Kellogg moves forward with a ban, it could pave the way for similar ordinances in other Idaho cities.

Click here to follow the original article.

Sean Dolan

By: Sean Dolan

Originally posted on IdahoEdNews.org on April 8, 2026

BOISE, Idaho — Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador has endorsed David Worley, a District 28 Senate candidate, in his Republican primary bid against Sen. Jim Guthrie, who is seeking a ninth term in the Legislature.

Worley is a major in the Idaho National Guard. He ran for Senate in 2022 but lost in the general election to Sen. James Ruchti, D-Pocatello.

Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador

In a press release, Labrador said Worley will fight for Idaho families, support strong border security and hold government accountable.

“Voters are tired of politicians who campaign one way at home and govern another when they are in Boise,” Labrador stated. “David is different. He’ll bring integrity, courage, and common sense to the Senate. I encourage Republicans in District 28 to support David Worley on May 19.”

Guthrie, R-McCammon, was first elected in 2010. He chairs the Senate State Affairs Committee and has faced criticism this session from hardline Republicans for not allowing hearings on immigration bills. Guthrie tops the Stop Idaho RINOs PAC list of Republicans who vote with Democrats.

In response to an EdNews candidate survey, Worley wrote Idahoans deserve honest government where bills are heard in public.

“In Boise, too many decisions are controlled by procedure and closed-door gatekeeping, and that undermines trust,” Worley wrote. “I am running to uphold immigration law, defend Idaho family values, and restore integrity and transparency so the people’s business happens in daylight.”

Worley submitted responses to the EdNews candidate survey, but Guthrie has not. Neither Worley nor Guthrie have responded to multiple requests for phone interviews for an election profile.

Jim Guthrie and David Worley

On his campaign website, Worley stated that he believes “Cultural Marxism” has no place in public schools, and schools should not “promote hatred of their nation.” He is committed to driving “radical Leftist ideology” from Idaho’s education institutions.

Also on his website, Worley said Christian morality is the “foundation of Western Civilization” and the state plays a legitimate role in supporting public and private morality.

If elected, Worley has committed to banning the use of government resources to “advance the LGBTQ agenda or support sexual immorality generally,” according to his website.

Worley in January 2025 filed a religious discrimination lawsuit against leaders of the Idaho National Guard. U.S. District Court Judge David C. Nye dismissed the suit in February.

According to the lawsuit, Worley claimed leaders of the Idaho National Guard affirmed a “No Christians in Command” policy.

Nye, in a memorandum and order to dismiss the case, wrote that it’s not clear to the court that such a policy exists.

Click here to read Worley’s lawsuit and here to read Nye’s order to dismiss.

Guthrie’s history

Guthrie is a former trustee for Marsh Valley School District and former Bannock County Commissioner. According to his website, he champions the principle that local governments know their communities best.

He voted against the $50 million Parental Choice Tax Credit last year and prioritizes “robust funding and support” for Idaho schools, according to his website. That means pushing for “restored and increased” education budgets.

In 2023, he was a legislative co-sponsor of the bill that established the Idaho Launch grant program for graduating high school seniors.

On social issues, Guthrie was the sole Senate Republican who voted last month against a bill that regulates which bathrooms transgender people can use.

Click here to follow the original article.