CASSIA COUNTY — RAFT RIVER FIREFIGHTER DIES IN CRASH
A Southern Idaho fire department is mourning the loss of one of its own following a tragic firetruck crash in Cassia County.
Authorities say two Raft River Fire District firefighters were inside a firetruck when it left the roadway and crashed along East Yale Road Monday night.
Cassia County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the single-vehicle crash around 9 o’clock.
Both firefighters were seriously injured and airlifted to Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello, where one later died from his injuries.
The second firefighter remains hospitalized.
Authorities have not yet released the names of either firefighter, and investigators are still working to determine what caused the crash.
Bannock County Coroner Torey Danner says the fallen firefighter’s identity is expected to be released in the coming days.
Idaho State Police are continuing their investigation.
JEROME — CHARGES AGAINST FORMER OFFICER DISMISSED
Criminal charges against a former Jerome police officer accused of sex crimes involving a child have been dismissed after a judge ruled that evidence was obtained through an improperly issued search warrant.
Michael Mulliner was charged in two separate cases in 2025, but Judge Rosemary Emory determined investigators failed to establish probable cause linking the alleged crimes to Mulliner’s cellphone.
The ruling also excluded evidence obtained through a second search warrant because it relied on information from the initial search.
Mulliner, who denied any sexual wrongdoing, had his employment with the Jerome Police Department terminated in January.
The charges were dismissed in June, but Jerome County Prosecutor Sam Beus says his office continues to monitor the case and charges could potentially be refiled.
The ruling centered on the legality of the search warrants, rather than a determination of guilt or innocence.
IDAHO ELECTION — VOTERS REJECT PROPOSITION ONE
Idaho voters have made their decision on one of the most closely watched ballot measures of the election, rejecting Proposition One and keeping the state’s existing abortion restrictions in place.
Unofficial election results show roughly 56 percent of voters opposed the measure, while 44 percent supported it.
Proposition One would have legalized abortion up to fetal viability and allowed abortions later in pregnancy to protect a patient’s health.
Supporters argued the measure was necessary to protect reproductive healthcare access, while opponents maintained Idaho’s existing laws provide important protections for unborn children.
The group Idahoans United for Women and Families conceded defeat early Wednesday morning, while the Stop Prop One campaign celebrated the results.
The outcome means Idaho’s current abortion laws remain unchanged.
Election results won’t become official until they’re certified by the Idaho State Board of Canvassers on November 24th.
IDAHO ELECTION — DEMOCRATS GAIN SIX LEGISLATIVE SEATS
Idaho’s political landscape is shifting following Tuesday’s election, with Democrats picking up six seats in the state Legislature, including two right here in the Magic Valley!
In Legislative District 26, Democrat Anita Janis defeated incumbent Republican Representative Mike Pohanka of Jerome, capturing 51 percent of the vote.
Democrat Kevin Marsh also won, defeating Republican Lyle Johnstone with nearly 59 percent of the vote.
And incumbent Democratic Senator Ron Taylor won reelection, giving Democrats all three legislative seats in District 26.
Elsewhere, Democrats gained two seats in west Boise and two more in Pocatello.
The results would increase Democratic representation in Idaho’s 105-member Legislature from 15 to 21 seats.
However, Republicans will continue to hold supermajority control of both the House and Senate, along with every statewide constitutional office.
All results remain unofficial until the State Board of Canvassers certifies the election on November 24th.
HAILEY ELECTION — VOTERS APPROVE FIRE DISTRICT ANNEXATION
A major change is coming to fire protection in Blaine County, after Hailey voters overwhelmingly approved joining Blaine County Fire and Rescue!
Nearly 76 percent of voters supported the proposal Tuesday, clearing the way for the city’s fire department to become part of the larger district.
Now, fire officials are working on an annexation agreement that will outline how firefighters, equipment, trucks, and the city’s fire station will transition into the district.
Blaine County Fire Chief Kevan Crawley says the goal is to move quickly, with operational changes potentially beginning in January.
Hailey Fire Chief Mike Baledge says all current personnel will remain, although some positions will change.
The consolidation is designed to improve emergency response by moving toward around-the-clock staffing as call volumes increase.
The financial transition will take longer, with the new tax taking effect October 1st, 2027.
Hailey’s City Council is expected to formally approve the annexation in the coming weeks.
IDAHO ELECTION — WINCHESTER MODEL 1873 LEADS FIREARM ADVISORY VOTE
Idaho voters have weighed in on what should become the state’s official firearm, and the so-called “Gun That Won the West” came out on top!
The Winchester Model 1873 received just over 31 percent of the vote in Tuesday’s general election, leading a field of six historic firearms.
The Winchester Model 1894 finished second with just over 25 percent, followed by the Colt Peacemaker revolver with about 15 percent.
But don’t expect Idaho to have an official state gun just yet!
The vote was purely advisory, meaning the Idaho Legislature will make the final decision on whether to officially recognize a firearm as a state symbol.
None of the six choices received a majority of the vote.
If lawmakers move forward, Idaho would join ten other states that have already designated an official state firearm.
About 70 percent of Idaho voters participated in the advisory question.
IDAHO AGRICULTURE — SMALLER GRAPE HARVEST, PROMISING QUALITY
Idaho grape growers are wrapping up a challenging harvest season, and while there may be fewer grapes this year, growers say the quality could be exceptional!
The Idaho Wine Commission reports smaller harvests in parts of the state following an unusually warm winter, damaging hailstorms, summer heat, and wildfire smoke.
Here in the Magic Valley, Holesinsky Vineyard and Winery in Buhl reported that a spring cold snap damaged some Chardonnay grapes, while Merlot and Syrah held up much better.
Growers in the Snake River Valley say smaller berries are producing rich, concentrated flavors, raising hopes for an excellent vintage.
Despite the challenges, winemakers say Idaho’s 2026 harvest is showing plenty of promise, proving that sometimes, less really can mean more!
TWIN FALLS — U.S. CAPITOL CHRISTMAS TREE STOPS TODAY
A little Christmas magic is rolling into Twin Falls today, and you’re invited to be part of a national holiday tradition!
The 2026 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is making a stop at Twin Falls City Park this afternoon from 4 to 6!
Known as the “People’s Tree,” the 76-foot Engelmann spruce was selected from Idaho’s Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and is making its way to Washington, D.C., where it will stand on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.
Visitors can see the tree and its decorated transport truck, take pictures, sign a commemorative banner, and meet the hauling crew.
One Idaho fourth grader has also been selected to attend the Capitol’s tree-lighting ceremony after winning an essay contest about the importance of healthy forests and clean water.
It’s a chance for the Magic Valley to celebrate Idaho’s role in a Christmas tradition that dates back to 1964!
THURSDAY SPORTS SOCIAL MEDIA
HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL — ALL-CONFERENCE HONORS
The high school volleyball season may be over, but the honors are still rolling in for some of the Magic Valley’s top players!
The 1A Sawtooth Conference has announced its All-Conference selections, with Dietrich’s Lily Hanson and Lighthouse Christian’s Reese Franklin sharing Co-Player of the Year honors!
Castleford’s Emma Mitton was named Offensive Player of the Year, Carey’s Andie Simpson earned Defensive Player of the Year, and Carey’s Teresa Simpson was selected Coach of the Year.
First-team honors went to Camas County’s Ivy Ashmead, Carey’s Emily Dahlstrom and Bentley Saxton, Castleford’s Olivia Derrick and Kalee Wright, Lighthouse Christian’s Holland Haringsma and Lulu Wood, and Richfield’s Payton Ward.
Second-team selections include Camas County’s Harper Rablin, Carey’s Madison Hoskinis and Ali Simpson, Castleford’s Brooklyn Hunt, Dietrich’s McKinley Webb, Lighthouse Christian’s Harper Haringsma, and Richfield’s Kendra Fuchs and Allie Naylor.
Honorable mentions went to Torrie Tupper, Shelby May, Aubry Kinyon, Anna Laron, Ali Stowel, Mollie Norris, Claira Cook, and Lexie Holland.
Meanwhile, in the 3A Canyon Conference, Buhl is taking home the top two honors!
The Indians’ Addy Vulgamore has been named Player of the Year, while Buhl’s Kylie Crossland earned Coach of the Year!
First-team selections include Declo’s Neisa May, Danika May, and Alayna Wageman, Wendell’s Brynn Singleton, and Buhl’s Natalia Torres and Jasmin Carpenter.
Honorable mentions went to Declo’s Sophie Allphin, Wendell’s Macie Comstock, and Buhl’s Kathryn Higbee.
CSI VOLLEYBALL — GOLDEN EAGLES ADVANCE TO REGION 18 TITLE MATCH
The College of Southern Idaho volleyball team is one win away from a Region 18 championship!
The Golden Eagles punched their ticket to the title match Wednesday night in Salt Lake City, sweeping Utah State Eastern in three straight sets, 25-20, 25-20, and 25-18!
It was a little payback for CSI after Eastern upset the Golden Eagles in their previous meeting.
Vivian Goto led the offense with 13 kills and nine digs, while Laura Grasel added seven kills. Both players also recorded four block assists.
Emerson Heatwole led the defense with 12 digs, while Dalayni Brindley finished with 18 assists and Mary Irwin added 14.
CSI also delivered 10 service aces in the victory!
The Golden Eagles are heading to the Region 18 championship match for the first time since 2023!
They’ll face top-seeded Salt Lake Community College this afternoon at 1 o’clock. The two teams split their regular-season meetings back in October, setting up what should be an exciting championship showdown!
BOISE STATE MEN’S BASKETBALL — RECORD-SETTING SEASON OPENER
What a way to start the basketball season! Boise State didn’t just win its season opener Wednesday night — the Broncos rewrote the record books!
Boise State crushed West Coast Baptist, 132 to 53, at ExtraMile Arena, setting program records for points scored, field goals, rebounds, and largest margin of victory!
The Broncos knocked down 51 field goals, grabbed 67 rebounds, and won by a whopping 79 points!
And the scoring was spread around! A school-record eight Broncos finished in double figures!
Dovydas Butka led the way with 18 points, Damari Wheeler-Thomas added 17, and Bhan Buom chipped in 16.
Jerquarius Stanback recorded a double-double with 15 points and 16 rebounds.
Boise State dominated from start to finish, leading 69 to 26 at halftime and shooting 58 percent for the game.
The Broncos are now 1-and-0 and face a much tougher test Sunday afternoon when Butler comes to Boise. Tip-off is set for noon at ExtraMile Arena!
IDAHO STATE MEN’S BASKETBALL — WYOMING AND AIR FORCE ROAD TRIP
The Idaho State men’s basketball team is looking to bounce back from a tough season opener, and the Bengals have two more road games coming up this weekend!
Idaho State heads to Laramie tomorrow night to face Wyoming, before traveling to Colorado Springs for a Sunday afternoon matchup against Air Force.
The Bengals opened their 100th season of basketball with a 94-to-58 loss to Utah State on Monday.
Macarhy Morris led Idaho State with 15 points, Kenyon DeMuynck added 14, and Ike Palmer chipped in 10.
It’s a rebuilding year for the Bengals, who return just two players from last season’s roster.
Wyoming enters tomorrow’s matchup at 1-and-0 after a convincing 95-to-48 win over Regis, while Air Force is 0-and-1 following a 102-to-71 loss to Wright State.
Tomorrow night’s tipoff against Wyoming is set for 6:30, with Sunday’s game at Air Force scheduled for 1 o’clock.
Both games will be streamed on Mountain West Plus.
IDAHO MEN’S BASKETBALL — VANDALS VISIT COLORADO STATE
The Idaho Vandals are off to a strong start on the basketball court, and now they’ll face their first road test of the new season!
Idaho heads to Fort Collins tomorrow night to take on Colorado State, with both teams entering the matchup undefeated at 1-and-0.
The Vandals opened their season with an impressive 97-to-56 victory over George Fox on Monday, led by Lapwai native Kase Wynott, who poured in a career-high 20 points, including four three-pointers!
Brady Kennison added 14 points, while Hudson Ward pulled down 12 rebounds in his Vandal debut.
Colorado State is also coming off a season-opening win, beating Montana State 84-to-74.
Friday’s matchup marks the first meeting between Idaho and Colorado State since 1966, with the Vandals holding a 7-to-5 advantage in the all-time series.
Tip-off tomorrow night is set for 7 o’clock Mountain Time at Moby Arena, with the game streaming on the Pac-12 YouTube channel.
Idaho then returns home Sunday afternoon to face Lincoln, with tip-off at 3 o’clock Mountain Time.
BOISE STATE WOMEN’S SOCCER — CONFERENCE TITLE ON THE LINE
A conference championship is on the line tonight in Boise, as the Boise State women’s soccer team looks to make history!
The Broncos host Washington State at 7 o’clock in their final home match of the regular season, and a win would clinch at least a share of the Pac-12 championship!
Boise State could claim the outright title if Utah State loses or ties San Diego State. That would give the Broncos their third consecutive regular-season conference championship!
Boise State has been dominant this season, ranking second in the Pacific Region and leading the Pac-12 with 11 shutouts.
Freshman standout Campbell Wilson has 12 goals and 32 points, the most of any freshman in the country!
Goalkeeper Ava de Leest has also been outstanding, recording 10 shutouts while ranking third nationally in goals-against average.
Washington State comes into tonight’s matchup with a 5-6-5 record and hasn’t won since October 4th.
The Broncos have already secured a spot in next week’s Pac-12 Championship tournament, but tonight they’ll be looking to bring home a regular-season title!
Kickoff is at 7, with the match streaming live on the Pac-12 YouTube channel.
IDAHO WOMEN’S SOCCER — REGULAR-SEASON FINALE AT EASTERN WASHINGTON
The Idaho Vandals women’s soccer team is looking to finish the regular season on a high note before heading into postseason play!
Idaho travels to Eastern Washington today for its final regular-season matchup, with a spot in the Big Sky Conference Tournament already secured.
The Vandals have been one of the conference’s toughest defensive teams this season, led by senior goalkeeper Paula Flores, who’s recorded 10 shutouts!
Flores leads the Big Sky in shutout percentage and goals-against average, while ranking third nationally in shutouts.
Offensively, Miranda Goldner has been a key contributor, leading the conference with five assists.
Eastern Washington still has plenty to play for. The Eagles need a win over Idaho, along with losses by Idaho State and Southern Utah, to keep their postseason hopes alive.
For the Vandals, today’s matchup is an opportunity to build momentum heading into the Big Sky Conference Tournament in Missoula, Montana, where they’ll compete for a conference championship and an automatic berth in the NCAA Tournament!
IDAHO STATE FOOTBALL — BENGALS HOST MONTANA STATE; ESPN2 GAME ANNOUNCED
The Idaho State Bengals are gearing up for one of their biggest football games of the season, and the stakes couldn’t be much higher!
The 22nd-ranked Bengals welcome third-ranked and defending national champion Montana State to the ICCU Dome in Pocatello Saturday afternoon!
Idaho State is coming off a thrilling 34-to-27 victory over Utah Tech, highlighted by a strip-sack touchdown from Zion To’oto’o and a game-winning defensive score from Trehsyn “Buddah” Fesili.
Head coach Cody Hawkins says his team knows it’ll take its best effort against the Bobcats, but he’s confident the Bengals can compete with anybody.
Idaho State is 6-and-3 and looking to make its first FCS playoff appearance since 1983.
Saturday’s kickoff is set for 4 o’clock, with coverage on ESPN Plus and Scripps Sports.
And there’s more national attention coming!
The Big Sky Conference has announced Idaho State’s November 14th showdown at 12th-ranked Montana will be televised nationally on ESPN2!
That game kicks off at 8:30 Mountain Time in Missoula, marking the Bengals’ first national ESPN network appearance under coach Cody Hawkins.
IDAHO STEELHEADS — THREE HOME GAMES POSTPONED
Hockey fans in Boise are being left disappointed after the Idaho Steelheads announced the postponement of three home games because of problems with the ice at Idaho Central Arena!
The Steelheads were scheduled to face the Rapid City Rush Wednesday night, tomorrow night, and Saturday, but all three games have been postponed.
The announcement caught some fans by surprise, including several who had already arrived downtown expecting to watch hockey.
The team says ice conditions forced the decision but hasn’t provided details about what’s causing the problem.
No makeup dates have been announced.
The good news for ticket holders is that tickets for all three games will be honored when the games are rescheduled.
Fans unable to attend the new dates can request a refund or receive credit toward another game.
Season ticket holders will be contacted directly by their ticket representatives with additional information.
WEATHER — MAGIC VALLEY
MORNING DRIVE
We’re starting Thursday with clouds across the Magic Valley, but sunshine returns later today with a high near 53. Tonight, mostly clear and 33. Tomorrow brings increasing clouds and another high of 53. Then we’re looking at a beautiful weekend, with sunshine and highs near 58 Saturday and 62 Sunday!
AFTERNOON DRIVE
Clouds are giving way to sunshine across the Magic Valley this afternoon, with temperatures topping out near 53. Tonight, mostly clear and chilly, with a low around 33. Tomorrow, increasing clouds and another high of 53. And the weekend is looking fantastic! Plenty of sunshine, with highs near 58 Saturday and a beautiful 62 on Sunday!
EVENING/OVERNIGHT
A quiet and chilly night ahead across the Magic Valley, with mostly clear skies and temperatures dropping to around 33. Tomorrow, look for increasing clouds and a high near 53. And we’ve got a beautiful weekend on the way! Sunshine Saturday with a high near 58, warming up to 62 on Sunday. Mild weather continues into next week!
EXTENDED FORECAST
Friday: Increasing clouds, with a high near 53. Light and variable wind.
Friday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 33. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph after midnight.
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 58.
Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 37.
Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 62.
Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.
Monday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 62.
Monday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 39.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 60.
Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 39.
Veterans Day: Sunny, with a high near 63.
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