Protests and Public Safety
Dozens gathered at the Idaho State Capitol last night to protest recent ICE actions and show support for immigrant communities. The peaceful rally was part of a national movement, with organizers planning to return Saturday.
Twin Falls County Sheriff Jack Johnson issued a public statement ahead of planned demonstrations across Idaho on June 14th. In his message, Johnson emphasized law enforcement’s duty to protect both public safety and constitutional rights under the U.S. and Idaho constitutions. He urged participants in protests or counter-protests to exercise their First Amendment rights peacefully and lawfully. The Sheriff warned that violence, property damage, or assaults—including against law enforcement—would face legal consequences. Johnson called for civility, stating, “Let’s work together to ensure any demonstrations reflect the respect our community values.”
Local Government and Legal Matters
In a tense Monday meeting, the Buhl City Council voted to censure Council Member Amanda Hawkins for the second time since 2023, citing misinformation and conflict of interest concerns. The move follows ongoing tensions over the city pool closure and social media posts.
A Rupert man accused of illegally killing trophy game has agreed to pay $130,000 in restitution. 44-year-old Karl Studer pleaded guilty to one felony in a plea deal that dropped multiple other charges. His sentencing is set for June 23.
A Twin Falls man is charged with felony child sexual abuse after allegedly making inappropriate comments to a 13-year-old girl at City Park. Police arrested 63-year-old Fikret Somic Tuesday night. His bond is set at $100,000, with a hearing on June 20.
Economic Development
The Jerome 20-20 made their report to the community yesterday. Jerome is booming with growth. Idaho Milk Products is investing $190 million in a new ice cream facility, bringing over 70 jobs. New housing, CSI expansions, and economic development are all part of the city’s bright future, officials say.
State Policy Changes
Idaho is joining two other states in restricting SNAP purchases after federal approval of a new waiver. Starting in 2026, candy and soda will no longer be eligible for food stamp benefits under a law signed by Governor Little earlier this year.
Education Updates
Idaho’s legislative session is over, but education changes are just beginning. Superintendent Debbie Critchfield is now working with schools to implement new laws, including teacher pay increases, lifetime credentials, and future graduation requirement updates set to begin in coming years.
Technology and Infrastructure
Senator Mike Crapo has introduced a bipartisan bill to expand broadband access in rural Idaho. The plan would update FCC funding by taxing major tech firms to help bring internet to underserved areas. Over 100,000 Idaho families still lack broadband.
Sports
Four CSI Golden Eagles are headed to the College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, Wyoming, June 15–21. Dahl Winters and Coy Montgomery will compete in Bareback Riding, Ashton Zabriskie in Bull Riding, and Hailey Gibbs—Rocky Mountain Region All-Around Champion—will compete in Breakaway Roping and Goat Tying.
The University of Idaho is celebrating 50 years of the iconic P1FCU Kibbie Dome. Completed in 1975, the dome has hosted thousands of events and earned national praise as one of college football’s most unique stadiums. A full year of celebrations is planned, with a highlight event during the September 13 game against Utah Tech.
Boise State Athletics is mourning the passing of Dr. George A. Wade, former team physician and pioneer in sports medicine. Dr. Wade served Bronco athletes for over 40 years, founding the Idaho Sports Medicine Institute and transforming athlete care nationwide. He was 82.
The Snake River Stampede returns June 17–21 at the Ford Idaho Center in Nampa, marking its 110th year with a historic move to June! With top rodeo talent, live music, and western fun for all ages, organizers promise the biggest prize purse yet. Kickoff events begin June 14.
Weather
Today, expect sunshine with a slight chance of afternoon showers or thunderstorms and a high near 87. Tonight, mostly clear with a low around 57. Friday through Sunday stays sunny and warm, highs in the mid to upper 80s. Sunday brings the heat with a high near 90. Lows hover in the mid-50s each night.
Today: A slight chance of showers between noon and 3pm, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Sunny, with a high near 87. Light and variable wind becoming west northwest 5 to 8 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 57. Northwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming south southwest after midnight.
Friday: Sunny, with a high near 87. South southwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming west northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 21 mph.
Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 56. West northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south southwest after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 86. Southwest wind 6 to 8 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.
Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 56.
Sunday: Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 90.
Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 57.
Monday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.
Monday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 57.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 86.
Tuesday Night: Clear, with a low around 56.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 86.
