Category: kifi-local-news

Stephanie Lucas

BEAR LAKE, Idaho (KIFI) – The Idaho State Police is ramping up resources at Bear Lake ahead of its popular summer season.

According to a June 12 press release, ISP has been “mobilizing additional troopers and specialized equipment to support public safety throughout the busy season,” when “thousands of visitors flock to Bear Lake to enjoy the water, campgrounds, trails and surrounding recreation areas.”

To meet the increased demand, ISP says it will expand its presence through a combination of traditional patrols, off-highway vehicles and aerial resources.

Troopers will continue to patrol the area by vehicle, and ATVs will be used to access the shoreline and off-road locations that are difficult to reach by traditional patrol vehicles. Drones might also be deployed during periods of high activity, search-and-rescue efforts, and public safety incidents.

ISP also said they will work closely with the Bear Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho Department of Lands, and Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation to coordinate resources and respond to emergencies this season.

“Bear Lake is one of Idaho’s most popular summer destinations, and that comes with a significant increase in traffic and calls for service,” Captain Clint Skinner said. “We’re doing everything we can to help everyone enjoy a safe summer, but it’s important that visitors do their part by wearing seat belts, wearing life jackets, and never driving impaired.”

The increased law enforcement presence will continue throughout the summer season.

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David Pace

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – For generations, the Idaho Falls Family YMCA has been serving kids, youth and adults with sports leagues, summer camps, child care and more.

YMCA staff, community leaders and ambassadors from the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber celebrated the non-profit’s 175th year operating in the United States with a ribbon cutting and community luncheon Friday.

“We are a beacon of hope and connection for members and nonmembers to come together and find a sense of belonging, a sense of connection, and a way to shoot for a healthier and a successful future,” said Idaho Falls YMCA CEO Tanner Rohne. 

Here in Idaho Falls, the center serves 3,000 youth a year with soccer, bowling, t-ball leagues and more.

“We’re also the great hosting site for basketball and volleyball games that take place here,” Rohne said. “We are the host for a whole bunch of members to come in and work on their fitness goals, whether that be working with a personal trainer, seniors coming in and connecting with group exercise classes.”

The YMCA also offers childcare from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for kids from two to preschool and amazing summer camps and after school programs for kindergarten through sixth grade, Rohne added.

The organization has been part of the community for 81 years.

YMCA volunteers, staff, members and Greater Idaho Falls Chamber ambassadors celebrate 81 years in Idaho Falls.

Its renovated exercise facility features state-of-the-art equipment.

The center is also updating its facilities, featuring a major campaign to retrofit its popular sports arena in Ammon.

It has raised $160,000 out of $250,000 to install new turf and HVAC upgrades so soccer can be played all year long, said Marketing Director Kim Schofield.

The YMCA also is preparing to launch a capital campaign to construct a new building.

To help, coach, participate or volunteer with this incredible organization, you can stop by the YMCA at 155 North Corner Avenue.

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Megan Lavin

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Independent country artist Ashley Wineland pulled her tour bus up to Local News 8 to give viewers a live acoustic performance with just her and her guitar.

Wineland is in town as part of her national tour ahead of weekend performances at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar in Jackson, Wyoming.

An Arizona native, she is familiar with the West and brought her upbeat country song “Love Letter” to Local News 8 viewers.

She has reached more than 1 million streams on several of her songs on YouTube and was excited to share her unique voice and talent with Jeff and Megan.

More information about Wineland and her tour is available at AshleyWineland.com.

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Par Kermani

PROVO, Utah (KIFI) — A judge is set to hear arguments today over whether prosecutors violated a gag order in the case against the man accused of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Tyler Robinson faces aggravated murder and other felony charges in connection with Kirk’s fatal shooting at Utah Valley University.

Robinson’s attorneys filed a motion in April asking the court to hold the Utah County Attorney’s Office in contempt, arguing prosecutors improperly commented on the case to the media.

The dispute centers on public statements made after reports surfaced that a ballistics test was unable to conclusively link a bullet recovered in the case to a rifle connected to Robinson.

Defense attorneys argued prosecutors crossed the line by publicly discussing the strength of their case and suggesting Robinson’s guilt before the matter is decided by a jury.

In court filings, the defense argued that statements claiming the state has enough evidence to prove Robinson committed the crime are the equivalent of declaring him guilty.

Prosecutors are asking Judge Tony Graf to dismiss the contempt motion.

The Utah County Attorney’s Office argues its comments were made in response to media questions and were intended to correct what it described as misleading information about the ballistics report.

According to prosecutors, the defense failed to mention that federal investigators were unable to either identify or exclude the rifle as the source of the bullet.

The prosecution also argues that stating it has sufficient evidence to meet its burden at trial is not the same as declaring Robinson guilty, but rather reflects the basis for pursuing the case.

Judge Graf is expected to hear arguments on the issue before deciding whether the comments violated the gag order and whether the contempt motion should move forward.

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Par Kermani

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KIFI) — Gov. Brad Little joined First Lady Melania Trump at the White House on Thursday to support a new initiative she launched “Fostering The Future Accounts”.

The program would allow states to establish savings and investment accounts for children in foster care.

“Idaho is proud to support this initiative. Every young person deserves the tools to succeed, achieve independence, and pursue the American Dream.” said Governor Little in a statement.

According to the Office of the First Lady, the accounts are designed to give foster youth access to long-term savings opportunities similar to those available to other children.

First Lady Melania Trump announced the initiative alongside Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and a bipartisan group of governors.

The program follows new federal guidance allowing state, territorial and tribal child welfare agencies to open and manage investment accounts on behalf of children in foster care.

Trump said the accounts are intended to help foster youth build assets and financial independence before reaching adulthood.

“Fostering the Future Accounts give foster children the same chance for asset ownership and long-term wealth building as every other American child,” Trump said in a statement.

The initiative is part of the First Lady’s broader Fostering the Future effort, which focuses on improving outcomes for children and families involved in the foster care system.

In addition to Idaho, governors from 22 other states have pledged support for the program.

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Curtis Jackson

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – Two teens were rescued Thursday night after their inflatable kayak deflated on the Snake River.

Bonneville County Sheriff Dispatchers received a call around 8 p.m. reporting that the two were separated from a larger group while floating the Snake River. The group started in the Burns Creek area .

The teens were located just after dark, stranded on a cliff just off the water near the Fullmer boat access. They had gotten caught in some trees that ripped their kayak, putting them in the water.

Both teens were wearing life jackets. Deputies said, aside from being extremely cold and wet, they were not injured.

The Sheriff’s office reminds people that conditions on the Snake River can be extremely hazardous as water levels are high and fast. They do not recommend floating or boating the Snake River, if you haven’t had experience or taken the time to check the water conditions and prepare for emergencies.

To learn more about water safety in Idaho, visit the Idaho State Parks and Recreation website at www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov.

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News Team

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — If you couldn’t access Facebook this morning, you are not alone. People across the nation are reporting outages with Downdetector.com documenting 123,864 reports of Facebook issues as of 7:47 a.m.

As of 8:21 a.m. Facebook appears to be working once again. Meta confirmed earlier today that they were aware of the outage and were working on the issue, though there is no word yet on the cause.

This is a developing story. Local News 8 will provide an update as more information becomes available.

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Danielle Mullenix

ISLAND PARK, Idaho (KIFI) – Idahoans and tourists will have a chance to cast a line without purchasing a fishing license this weekend as Idaho Fish and Game celebrates its annual Free Fishing Day on Saturday, June 13.

The event, held each year on the second Saturday in June, allows residents and visitors to fish in Idaho waters without a fishing license for one day only. While licenses are waived, all other fishing regulations, including creel limits, tackle restrictions, and season rules, remain in effect.

Idaho Fish and Game officials say the annual tradition is designed to introduce more people to one of Idaho’s most popular outdoor activities while encouraging families to spend time together outdoors.

“Free Fishing Day is just a great way to get the public engaged in fishing,” said Jennifer Jackson, communications manager for Idaho Fish and Game’s Southeast Region. “It’s a great opportunity to get them outside and enjoying the outdoors and enjoying that sport of fishing.”

Fish and Game employees and volunteers will be stationed at events across the state to help beginners learn the basics of fishing. Many locations will offer loaner rods, reels, and tackle while supplies last, helping eliminate barriers for first-time anglers.

According to Idaho Fish and Game, hatcheries stocked approximately 243,000 catchable rainbow trout across the state in the month leading up to Free Fishing Day, providing anglers with increased opportunities for success.

In eastern Idaho, Fish and Game will host community events at:

Trail Creek Pond in Victor from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Ryder Park Pond in Idaho Falls from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Bannock Reservoir – Wellness Complex in Pocatello from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Grace Fish Hatchery in Grace from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Kids Creek Pond in Salmon from 9 a.m. to noon.

Sawtooth Fish Hatchery in Stanley from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Blue Mountain Pond in Challis from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Volunteers will be available to teach casting techniques, basic fishing skills, and answer questions from newcomers.

For those interested in getting started, local fly-fishing guide Spence Martin with Big Sky Anglers says fishing can be an affordable hobby for families.

“You can get a spinning rod for 35 bucks, grab a couple lures for five to ten bucks apiece,” Martin said. “It’s a really good way to get into it. It’s free fishing day — get out there and have fun, enjoy it, learn something new, and explore some new areas.”

Idaho Fish and Game notes that children ages 13 and younger do not need a fishing license year-round, making fishing one of the state’s most affordable outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or someone who has never held a fishing rod before, officials say Free Fishing Day offers an opportunity to discover Idaho’s lakes, rivers, and ponds while spending quality time with family and friends.

For a complete list of Free Fishing Day events across Idaho, visit Idaho Fish and Game’s Free Fishing Day page here.

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David Pace

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – Each year, Idaho invests $2.5 billion in public education. Yet the attendance-based funding formula that allocates those dollars is 32 years old, and the education landscape has evolved dramatically.

Idaho Superintendent of Public Education Debbie Critchfield and Idaho’s Senate Education Committee Chairman Dave Lent met with education stakeholders Thursday at the College of Eastern Idaho to discuss options for modernizing the public school funding formula.

“When we talk about modernizing the funding formula, what we’re trying to do is catch up as our society and culture has evolved,” State Senator Dave Lent (R-Idaho Falls) said. “We were just talking before this about all the different ways we educate folks now – all of those options. We have to be able to accommodate that and have a funding formula then that matches up and allows us to thrive.”

The Idaho Legislature passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 121 this year requesting modernization of the public school funding formula and asking “the Idaho State Superintendent of Public Instruction to present draft legislation to the Legislature that revises” how schools are funded.

“Our current funding distribution isn’t getting the job done,” said Idaho Superintendent of Public Education Debbie Critchfield. “How do we know that? Well, I know that because I hear constantly from communities that they’re tired of being asked for supplemental levies or other types of levies or school bonds.”

According to the memorial, previous “educational delivery models and student needs differ substantially from those of today, including traditional brick-and-mortar schools, rural and remote districts, small and large districts, public charter schools, virtual education programs, and blended learning models.”

Multiple school administrators and parents emphasized the need for enrollment-based funding.

Today’s attendance-based formula doesn’t account for schools’ fixed costs when students are absent and imposes significant paperwork requirements, teachers shared.

“Base funding should follow the students. Extra funding should follow the need. That’s my belief there,” said parent Jacob Petersen. “Rural and small schools, especially because I’m here on the east side of the state… – I’d would love for those students here to be considered and factored in.” 

Marcy Curr, a former Pocatello speech and debate teacher with 18 years of experience, also emphasized the unique challenges rural schools face providing for infrastructure and programs on a more limited tax base.

“Over 50 percent of the high schools in the state are rural,” Curr said. “They are not in Boise. [Consider] the way that these funding formulas impact places like Soda Springs, Grace, Marsh Valley, American Falls, Pingree.”

These schools in smaller communities face dramatically different pressures than urban schools.

“My parents live up in Swan Valley. What that looks like there is so profoundly different than what it looks like in Boise,” Curr said. “The issues that the teachers face, the training that the teachers need, and even to an extent, the priorities that the kids have. We need to take those things into account when we’re looking at the formula.”

Listening sessions are being held in Idaho Falls, Boise and Coeur d’Alene.

Additional comment will be accepted at a Virtual Funding Formula Modernization listening Session on June 25 from 6 to 8 PM at https://idahosde.zoom.us/j/96901934245#success.

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Hadley Bodell

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (KIFI) – The second-largest event of the year at the Eastern Idaho State Fairgrounds is officially underway–the Blackfoot Dog Shows. The Pocatello Kennel Club and Eagle Rock Kennel Club collaborate to bring the competitions to life.

A dog flies over the pond in the dock diving competition, Thursday, June 11

The shows began on June 11 at 7 a.m. and will go through Sunday, June 14. Entered dogs can compete in a variety of events, including Conformation, which resembles the Westminster national dog show seen on TV each year.

Jay Ferguson, Pocatello Kennel Club’s Show Chair, said they also compete in obedience trials, rally trials, dock diving, and “fast cat” racing. He said the Pocatello Kennel Club has been a part of the Blackfoot Dog Shows for decades, bringing professional dogs and their handlers to the region.

A dog flies over a hurdle jump in the obstacle course, Thursday, June 11

“Many of these handlers go all around the country to the biggest shows and even in Canada,” Ferguson said. “It’s crazy how you can have some of the biggest people in the dog world come to a show in Blackfoot, Idaho.”

Alongside nationally ranked dogs, local dog owners from Pocatello and Blackfoot compete their dogs in various categories. Winners of competitions get ribbons, cash prizes, and even gift cards and merchandise from attending vendors. The large dog show brings out all breeds of dogs–big and small.

High-flying competitor in dock diving, Thursday, June 11

“For Conformation, you specifically have to be an AKC full bred or purebred registered dog, but the other events like agility, they can be mixed breed,” Ferguson explained. “For fast cat, you can be mixed breed and those go on Friday and Saturday.”

Dogs entering in Conformation, agility, obedience and rally had to be pre-registered. But for the fast cat, a 100-yard dash event, dog owners can come day of to enter. Dog diving is also open to mixed breeds registering day of.

A dog high-jumps over a hurdle on the obstacle course, Thursday, June 11

“If you come to the dog show, you’ll see dogs you didn’t know existed,” Ferguson said. “You just see so many different varities of dogs that you never got to see and how other people interact with them.”

Vendors will be on site all weekend with merchandise and treats for the furry friends. Awards will be given out to dogs competing in Conformation like “Best in Show” and “Best of Breed.”

Gates are open at the Eastern Idaho State Fairgrounds from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. through Sunday, June 14.

More Photos

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