NEWS

WANTED SUSPECT — TWIN FALLS SHOOTING

Twin Falls Police are searching for 26-year-old Anthony Alvarez, who’s wanted after an exchange of gunfire at a home on Trotter Drive August 1st. Alvarez faces charges of aggravated assault and shooting into an occupied home. Police say he’s armed and dangerous and may be headed toward Washington state. Anyone with information should contact Twin Falls Police.

TARTAR FIRE — MIDVALE AREA

The Tartar Fire has grown another 4,000 acres overnight and continues pushing toward Highway 95 and the Midvale area. Firefighters have moved more crews and equipment into position as they work to protect homes, ranchland and the highway corridor. Officials say the next couple of days will be critical, with stronger winds expected heading into the weekend.

STAGE 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions take effect today across much of southwest Idaho as wildfire danger increases. Campfires are only allowed in approved fire pits at developed recreation sites, and smoking is restricted in many outdoor areas. Propane stoves and campfires are still permitted if used safely.

AIR QUALITY ADVISORY LIFTED

Air quality is improving across the Magic Valley. The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality has lifted the air quality advisory and burn ban for Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls counties. Open burning may resume, but check with your local fire district, as fire safety burn bans may still be in effect.

HEAT AND SMOKE

Triple-digit heat and smoky skies will stick around the Magic Valley through the weekend. The National Weather Service says breezy winds return Friday, with only a slight chance of thunderstorms near the Idaho-Nevada border. Take it easy in the heat and limit outdoor activity if smoke becomes an issue.

LICENSE PLATE READER DEBATE

The debate over automated license plate reader cameras in Southern Idaho could be headed to the Idaho Legislature in 2027. Twin Falls Police say the technology helps solve crimes faster, while privacy advocates argue it collects too much data on law-abiding drivers.

FRESH PACK POTATO SYMPOSIUM

The University of Idaho Extension is launching its first-ever Fresh Pack Potato Symposium November 17th and 18th at Canyon Crest in Twin Falls. The event will bring together potato industry experts from across the country to discuss fresh potato production, exports, storage, pests, disease, and new environmental regulations affecting the industry.

SPORTS

CSI WOMEN’S BASKETBALL — NEW ASSISTANT COACH

The College of Southern Idaho women’s basketball program has added a new assistant coach. Taliyah Clark joins first-year head coach Brendan Wheeler’s staff after a standout Division I playing career at UT Arlington and Seattle University, where she scored more than 1,200 career points. Clark most recently served as a graduate assistant at Western Oregon and says she’s excited to help CSI student-athletes grow both on and off the court as the Golden Eagles prepare for the upcoming season.

CSI MEN’S BASKETBALL — NASH GILLETTE COMMITS

The College of Southern Idaho men’s basketball team has landed another Magic Valley talent. Burley standout Nash Gillette has verbally committed to the Golden Eagles and will join the program after serving a two-year mission. Gillette averaged 18 points, seven rebounds, and three-and-a-half assists per game as a senior, leading the Bobcats to the state tournament. He says playing for CSI has always been a dream, thanks to family ties and the program’s passionate fan base.

CSI SOFTBALL — GRACIE WALTERS RETURNS

The College of Southern Idaho softball program is welcoming back one of its all-time greats. Former Golden Eagle pitcher Gracie Walters has been named an assistant coach. Walters was an NJCAA All-American, a Region 18 Player of the Year, and helped lead CSI to two national tournament appearances. She later starred at Portland State before returning to Twin Falls, saying she’s excited to give back to the program that helped shape her career.

BOISE STATE — WORLD U-20 CHAMPIONSHIPS

Boise State freshman Addy MacArthur wrapped up an impressive season by representing Team USA at the World Athletics Under-20 Championships. MacArthur finished 19th overall in the women’s shot put with a throw of 14.94 meters after qualifying with a personal best at the U-20 National Championships in June. Broncos head coach Pat McCurry praised her performance, calling it a tremendous accomplishment and a strong finish to an outstanding freshman campaign.

BOISE STATE — 2026 THEMED GAMES

Boise State has unveiled its themed games for the 2026 football season, celebrating two of the biggest moments in program history. The Broncos will honor the 40th anniversary of the iconic Blue Turf during the Sept. 12 home opener against Memphis. Then on Oct. 3, Boise State celebrates Homecoming while recognizing the 20th anniversary of the unforgettable 2007 Fiesta Bowl championship team. Special commemorative merchandise will be available throughout the season.

IDAHO STATE — FALL CAMP

Idaho State football hit the practice field in full pads for the first time this fall camp, and coaches say the Bengals responded with the toughness and intensity they were looking for. The offensive line continues to build chemistry after several new additions, while the team emphasizes physical play in the trenches. The Bengals also enter the season just outside the FCS Top 25, receiving the most votes of any team not in the preseason rankings, with running back Dason Brooks on the Walter Payton Award watch list.

WEATHER

MAGIC VALLEY FORECAST

Expect another hot day across the Magic Valley today with plenty of sunshine, patchy smoke, and a high near 100. A light northwest breeze develops this afternoon before temperatures fall to around 66 tonight. Tomorrow stays hot with a high near 98 and continued patchy smoke. Cooler weather slowly arrives next week, with highs easing into the upper 80s by Thursday.