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Idaho couple donates 330 acre ‘oasis’ to land trust to create a nature preserve instead of subdivisions

The breakneck pace of growth in Southern Idaho has seen more and more open spaces transform into subdivisions, but one couple has a different vision for the future of their land.

Melody and Charlie Lenkner, who have owned a 330-acre property south of Twin Falls since the 1980s, chose to donate their land to the Magic Valley Land Trust rather than sell it to developers.

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Couple convicted in ‘kill list’ manifesto case

A married Boise couple who wrote a manifesto that included a “kill list” have been found guilty by an Ada County jury of a combined 122 counts of stalking, witness intimidation, and threats involving multiple victims.

According to the Ada County Prosecutor’s Office, 43-year-old Daniel Harms and 39-year-old Lynn Harms sent an email to thousands of recipients that included a 277-page manifesto, which they referred to as a “kill list.” In the document, the couple calls for killing several persons, including members of Table Rock Church, a church that the Harms previously attended. The documents also called for the deaths of police officers and public officials.

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Eastern Idaho residents invited to drop-off expired medications for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

Idaho Falls, ID (KIFI) – Eastern Idaho residents are being encouraged to clean out their medicine cabinets this weekend as part of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, happening Saturday, April 25th. The event, organized by Eastern Idaho Public Health in partnership with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and local law enforcement agencies, aims

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TCFR receives funding boost to map and mitigate wildfire risks

Teton County Fire & Rescue is getting a boost ahead of fire season thanks to new grant funding.

Last week, TCFR was awarded grant funding from the Community Foundation of Teton Valley to support wildfire mitigation efforts. The money will help build computer models that show how wildfires could spread through local communities, giving a clearer picture of where risks are highest and how to respond faster.

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Red, White, and Blue Jeans: Eastern Idaho State Fair unveils 2026 theme and entertainment lineup

The wait is officially over. The Eastern Idaho State Fair is pulling back the curtain today on its highly anticipated 2026 entertainment lineup, promising a slate of performances that aim to outdo years past.

“Get ready for big names, great entertainment, and even bigger fair memories,” the fair committee shared in an enthusiastic announcement on Facebook.

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Idaho’s largest Teachers’ Union formally breaks ties with Gov. Little over ‘union-busting’ legislation

During the Idaho Education Association’s annual business meeting this past weekend, members voted overwhelmingly to issue a vote of no confidence in Governor Little. The union said the move was in response to “union-busting legislation attacking the right of educators to organize and advocate in their workplaces.”

“Our members have spoken clearly,” said IEA President Layne McInelly. “They are angry and frustrated with the governor. They feel his choice to sign House Bill 516, when there were so many reasons to veto it, is a betrayal of his claims to be a supporter of Idaho’s educators and public schools.”

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Fire destroys the Caldwell home of Idaho State Representative Kent Marmon, leaving the residence uninhabitable

On Monday evening at 9:50 p.m., Caldwell fire crews responded to a residential structure fire in Caldwell near the College of Idaho’s Marty Holly Athletic Center. Everyone in the home was evacuated, and there are no reported injuries.

Fire officials say the blaze was primarily concentrated near the rear of the home. Crews were able to quickly bring it under control, but the residence sustained extensive damage and is considered uninhabitable.

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Surface Water Coalition, Groundwater Districts seek emergency stay on Butte Co. curtailment

In a potential breakthrough for Butte County agriculture, the Surface Water Coalition (SWC), along with Idaho’s groundwater districts, filed a joint request Friday afternoon asking the state to hit the “pause” button on an ongoing water curtailment order that has paralyzed local farms.

The move comes less than 24 hours after IDWR Director Matt Weaver denied a motion to pause the curtailment.

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The Idaho Falls Zoo is reopening – despite the cold weather

Despite the near-freezing temperatures, chances of snow, and winds, the zoo is still open for the start of their 2026 season.

“There’s lots of animals that love the cold. And then there are the surprising bunch of animals that enjoy the cold. And you wouldn’t think so,” David Pennock, the Zoo’s Executive Director, said. “Like, our lions are out in the cold and enjoying it, even though they could choose to go inside and be warm. They come outside and romp in the snow.”

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Driver killed in semi-truck rollover on I-15 south of Pocatello

Idaho State Police is investigating a crash along I-15 south of Pocatello near the N Old Highway 91

According to the Idaho Transportation Department, the crash happend in the northbound lanes of I-15 near milepost 63 just before the Portneuf exit. The crash happend around 1:27 p.m.

It’s unclear at this time how many vehicles were involved or whether there were any potential injuries. ITD is directing drivers to keep left, expect delays, and use caution.

This is a developing story. Local News 8 will provide additional updates as we learn new details.

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Classrooms vs. extracurriculars: GOP leaders draw a line on political neutrality in schools

Spokespeople for Gov. Brad Little and state superintendent Debbie Critchfield say there’s a difference between promoting political ideologies in the classroom and promoting “extracurricular” and “student-led” political activities outside the classroom.

But you might have to squint to see where the line is drawn.

Little and Critchfield’s offices defended the Republicans — both running for reelection this year — after they caught flak for promoting “Club America,” Turning Point USA’s campaign to equip and educate conservative activists in high schools.

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Idaho medical marijuana push reaches 100,000 signatures as lawmakers urge opposition

Supporters of a medical marijuana initiative in Idaho say they have surpassed 100,000 signatures as they work to place the issue on the 2026 ballot, marking a major milestone in an effort that has gained traction in recent months.

Advocates with the Natural Medicine Alliance of Idaho say the initiative would provide patients with access to treatment options that are currently unavailable under state law.

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‘Everlasting hug’: Community creates quilt in memory of Kaylee Goncalves

A handmade quilt created by contributors from across the country is now on display in the Treasure Valley, honoring the life of Kaylee Goncalves and offering comfort to her family.

The Kaylee Jade Dahlia Quilt, unveiled at The Quilt Crossing, was crafted by more than a dozen quilters and dahlia enthusiasts from Idaho and beyond. Each square was stitched with messages of remembrance, forming a one-of-a-kind tribute to Goncalves, one of four victims killed in the 2022 University of Idaho murders.

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AG Labrador slams “Idaho Values First” for misleading political campaign involving ICAC Unit

Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador is striking back against a wave of “misleading political advertisements” that he says falsely invoke his office and the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit in a deceptive digital campaign.

The advertisements, funded by a political organization operating under the name “Idaho Values First,” began appearing on YouTube over the last week. The campaign involves 12 videos targeting several Idaho legislators, claiming they voted against essential funding for the ICAC Unit.

Labrador has labeled the claims “flatly untrue.”

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Three hospitalized following multiple crashes on Osborne Bridge

A chain of accidents near the Osborne Bridge sent multiple people to the hospital Thursday morning as slick road conditions potentially caught commuters off guard. The incident temporarily blocked off both lanes of US-20 from mile marker 378 to 379.

The Fremont County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) responded to the initial report of a single-vehicle rollover crash at approximately 7:40 a.m. on April 16. While deputies were heading to the scene to manage the first wreck, a second “T-bone” collision happend in the same area.

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Trial set for man charged with murder and kidnapping of 5-year-old Michael Vaughan

A September trial date has been set for Stacey Wondra, the man accused in the disappearance and death of 5-year-old Michael Vaughan.

During a hearing on Wednesday morning, a Payette County judge scheduled a status conference for June 2 and a pretrial conference for Aug. 4. Jury selection and the trial are set to begin Sept. 14 at 8:30 a.m., with the trial expected to last roughly four weeks.

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Spring freezes in Eastern Idaho: experts at T&T Lawn Service offer advice for keeping your yard healthy

Idaho Falls, ID (KIFI) – With spring weather in Eastern Idaho comes unpredictable conditions, including freezing temperatures and late-season storms. With temperatures dropping below freezing again this morning, lawn care experts say preparation is key to protecting your yard from lasting damage. According to experts at T&T Lawn Services in Idaho Falls, what homeowners do

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IDWR launches technical review to resolve Butte County curtailment, Surface Water Coalition appluads path forward

Idaho’s Surface Water Coalition is applauding efforts to find a potential path toward ending water shut-offs in Butte County.

On Wednesday, the Idaho Department of Water Resources launched a collaborative technical review to determine if three “junior” groundwater districts can join a statewide mitigation plan, potentially bringing an end to an active curtailment order.

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Shoshone-Bannock Tribes to honor legacy of late Judge William “Bill” Bacon

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes will gather this Friday to pay tribute to the life and enduring impact of William “Bill” F. Bacon, a longtime Tribal Judge and General Counsel described as a “tireless advocate” for Indigenous rights.

Judge Bacon passed away on March 26 following a tragic car accident along I-15 near Pocatello. In the weeks since, Tribal leadership and community members have continued to reflect on a career defined by
“dedicated service, steady leadership, and meaningful contributions to the Tribes and the community.”

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The Coach vs. the Firefighter: Connor Cook challenges incumbent Barbara Ehardt in District 33 showdown

Rep. Barbara Ehardt, R-Idaho Falls, will face Republican Connor Cook in the May 19 primary election in District 33 House Seat A. She is seeking a fifth term.

In her four Republican primary elections, Ehardt has been challenged by a Republican just once. She faced her first and only Republican in 2022, when she beat Jeff Thompson with 57% of the vote.

Cook, a newcomer to politics, said he thinks Ehardt has stopped listening to her constituents. He said he would bring common sense to the Statehouse from a blue collar perspective. He’s worked as a paramedic and firefighter for 10 years and is a union member.

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The right to an Abortion could be on the ballot’s this November

The Reproductive Freedom & Privacy Act is 1,000 signatures away from being added to the ballots this November.

Idahoans United for Women & Families, has been circulating a citizens ballot initiative to restore reproductive rights. It would create a legal right in Idaho for individuals to make their own reproductive health decisions, including abortion, without excessive government interference.

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Week of the Young Child celebrations throughout Eastern Idaho supporting young learners

Communities across the Gem State are celebrating the annual Week of the Young Child, a nationwide initiative focused on early childhood education, family engagement, and supporting young learners.

In Eastern Idaho, at least 13 cities are recognizing the week with official proclamations, highlighting a growing effort among local leaders and educators to prioritize early learning and child development. The Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children, in partnership with educational organizations throughout Eastern Idaho, is providing weeklong festivities that any child can participate in at no cost.

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Teachers upset by new law banning taxpayer-funded support for teachers’ unions

“Teachers across the state are pretty demoralized about this – especially due to the targeted nature of the bill,” said Taylorview Middle School teacher Jake Snarr. “This bill leaves out our firefighters unions and our police unions. It specifically goes for the Idaho Education Association and our teachers’ unions, and I think that teachers are confused by what it is that the Legislature thinks that we’re up to.”

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New Idaho Law mandates parental consent and age verification for social media

A new law intends to regulate and limit social media use for Idaho minors, but critics warn the state could be walking into a lawsuit.

On April 2nd, Governor Brad Little officially signed House Bill 542, the Stop Addictive Social Media Act, into law. The legislation aims to curb the influence of social media on Idaho’s youth by mandating age verification and stripping platforms of features the bill’s sponsors deem “addictive.”

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Find out what passed and what didn’t. A look back to the 2026 legislative session

The 81-day legislative session wrapped up last week, eight days shorter than last year’s session.

Shorter sessions are typical in election years, but 2026 wasn’t any less hectic.

It started and ended with fiery debates over budget cuts to address a revenue deficit after last year’s tax cuts. While K-12 was largely spared, colleges and universities face the brunt of the cuts.

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Idaho Department of Labor urges Intermountain Packing workers to seek help following layoffs

The Idaho Department of Labor is urging more than 150 employees laid off from Intermountain Packing this week to seek immediate assistance, noting that turnout for support services has been unexpectedly low.

“They should all be coming into the Department of Labor and learning about unemployment and employment-related programs so that we can help them to get back into employment,” said Windy Hahn, a manager at the Idaho Department of Labor. “We want to be there and we want to help”.

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Southeast Idaho sheriff signs up to help enforce immigration law

A sheriff’s office in southeast Idaho is the second in the state to sign an agreement with federal immigration officials allowing deputies to act as immigration agents. 

Deputies in Franklin County, a rural Idaho county with just over 14,000 residents that borders Utah, will soon be authorized to stop and question the immigration status of anyone they believe to be in the country without authorization.

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Idaho Gov. Brad Little vetoes five bills after 2026 legislative session adjourns

Little vetoed the bills late Wednesday, and his office announced the vetoes just before noon on Thursday. 

Two of the bills were late-session budget bills. One involved transferring cash and interest payments around to prop up the state budget, and the other involved the cap limiting the amount of money that can be deposited in the state’s main rainy day savings account – the Budget Stabilization Fund.

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Kellogg City Council unanimously passes ordinance to ban Kratom sales

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.

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FBI joins search for Pocatello man accused of severing victim’s hand with machete

The Fort Hall Police Department is asking for the public’s help in finding a wanted Pocatello man who is considered a threat to the community.

Authorities have identified the man as 28-year-old Sean Tindore. While police have not yet released the specific charges or the nature of the investigation, they have issued a stern warning stating Tindore is considered armed and dangerous.

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Protestors gather outside courtroom for Eagle man accused of shooting caged cat

George Gebran, the Eagle man accused of killing a cat locked in a cage in Garden City, is in court this morning for a pre-trial conference.

On Feb. 15, 2026, Garden City Police received a radio call reporting an alleged animal abuse and shooting investigation in the 5100 block of North Alworth Street in Garden City. The caller reported seeing a white male in his 50s shoot a cat while it was locked in a cage. Officers responded to investigate alleged animal abuse and the discharge of a weapon within city limits.

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Idaho Airmen deployed to bolster U.S. forces in the Middle East

Hundreds of members of the Idaho Air National Guard have been deployed to the Middle East to bolster U.S. Central Command operations as part of the Department of War’s Operation Epic Fury.

“This deployment exemplifies the extraordinary commitment of the 124th Fighter Wing and its dedicated members, alongside the unwavering support of their families, state and local leaders, neighbors, and employers,” said Idaho Governor Brad Little. “Idaho’s National Guardsmen continue to inspire patriotism and gratitude through their service, and this mission adds a new chapter to the proud tradition of safeguarding our nation.”

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New US-30 wildlife crossings near Montpelier breaks ground this month

“This project is equally important to both ITD and Idaho Fish and Game and has received broad support from the Bear Lake County community because of the benefits to both human and wildlife safety,” said Regional Wildlife Manager Zach Lockyer with Idaho Fish and Game. “Hunters and other wildlife enthusiasts value this mule deer resource, and protecting it has added benefits to both the economy and quality of life in this part of southeast Idaho.”

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Car enthusiasts gather at Idaho State University for Tau Kappa Epsilon car show

Idaho Falls, Idaho (KIFI) – Car enthusiasts gathered at Idaho State University as dozens of vehicles lined the parking lot outside Frazier Hall for a campus car show.

The event was organized by members of the Tau Kappa Epsilon and brought students and community members together to celebrate car culture while supporting a good cause.

Classic cars, modified imports, and modern performance vehicles filled the lot as attendees walked through rows of cars, stopping to look at custom engines, interiors, and unique designs.

Participants say the event also helped to raise awareness and support for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“Because it supports St. Jude, we’re out here to support them,” said attendee Jan Caster. “I think it’s a great organization, and I think everybody should have stepped out today and supported it.”

Organizers say the car show was designed to bring people together and give car enthusiasts a place to showcase their vehicles while contributing to a charitable cause.

Participants say events like this also give them an opportunity to connect with others who share the same passion for cars.
Organizers say they hope to continue hosting events like this car show in the future.

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“I Was a Coward”: Former Idaho pastor sentenced to 17 Years on child pornography charges

Former Nampa pastor Matthew Masiewicz was sentenced to up to 17 years in prison Thursday after pleading guilty to charges related to child pornography.

Canyon County District Court Judge Thomas Whitney sentenced Masiewicz to a unified 17-year prison term, with five years fixed and 12 years indeterminate. Masiewicz will serve the sentence in the custody of the Idaho Department of Corrections.

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