Good morning, Pocatello.

Les Purce, Pocatello’s first Black mayor, will return on Aug.

16 to honor his mother's 100th birthday at Purce Park—renovated with local grants—and celebrate a legacy that has shaped the community for over 50 years.

Fuji Japanese Steakhouse has opened a new location in Chubbuck and offers succulent sushi with a modern dining experience.

The restaurant features soft amber lighting and a sleek design that redefines fine dining in Southeast Idaho today.

Gynii Gilliam is returning from retirement to lead the local economic development group formerly known as Bannock Development Corporation in the Portneuf Valley.

Former colleague Matt Hunter recalls her six-year leadership that drove growth in the area.

12 inmates at Bannock County Jail graduated from the Hustle 2.0 education program on Thursday, June 18, earning certificates in a ceremony featuring traditional caps and gowns and training in recovery, social skills, and victim awareness to help rebuild their futures using lessons from former inmate John Jackson.

Friends of the Children-Eastern Idaho is expanding its mentoring program to the Fort Hall Reservation to provide paid, long-term support for children facing learning challenges (enrolling 16 children for weekly four-hour sessions in partnership with Fort Hall Elementary and the Pocatello School District).

A report from the National Council on Teacher Quality praised Idaho for its teacher preparation as all seven elementary programs received an A grade and four even earned an A+; state literacy efforts, including improved K-3 reading scores, have bolstered these results.

The Pocatello Fire Department urged residents to stay alert as dry conditions persisted after sparks ignited a brush fire east of Pacific Steel near the railroad tracks.

Officials said crews worked to control the fire while maintaining a heightened level of caution.

Idaho Power advises customers to raise thermostat settings, replace air filters, and use fans efficiently to lower cooling costs & reduce energy use during the hot summer months.

The tips, released on Tuesday, June 16, help ensure a cost-effective, comfortable season in homes around the region.

NeighborWorks Pocatello is accepting applications for the USDA self-help program (designed for those willing to put in sweat equity) to help low to moderate income families build affordable homes in American Falls; interested applicants can call (208-232-9468) for more information.

Gift of Life Walk/Run 2026

8 AM – 2 PM — Portneuf Wellness Complex — Registration required — Celebrate life and honor donors in this spirited 5K Fun Run and mile walk.

Pocatello Fourth of July Fireworks

10 PM — Portneuf Wellness Complex — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display and community activities.

Southeast Idaho Senior Games

All day — Mountain View Event Center — Registration required — Compete in pickleball, chair volleyball, and basketball events designed for seniors.

Idaho International Choral Festival

Mass choir concert featuring 400 voices — July 15-18 — L.E. and Thelma E. Stephens Performing Arts Center — Celebrate 40 years of harmony with high school choirs and renowned musicians.