Gooding County Shooting

The Gooding County Sheriff’s Office responded to a shooting on East Ave B in Wendell just after 2 p.m. yesterday. Preliminary reports indicate that Ryan Rollins was shot after allegedly brandishing a knife at a man he knew. Rollins was airlifted to a hospital and is receiving treatment. The shooter is cooperating with authorities, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Idaho Governor’s Legislative Priorities

Idaho Governor Brad Little opened the legislative session yesterday with his State of the State address. He prioritized education by allocating $150 million for schools and teachers, and $50 million for school choice initiatives. Governor Little also emphasized investments in water infrastructure, fire safety, and $150 million in property tax relief. Superintendent Debbie Critchfield praised his focus on public schools and mental health support, while Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke highlighted the importance of water investments for the Magic Valley.

Egg Prices Soaring

Egg prices have surged due to the ongoing bird flu outbreak, with a dozen eggs now costing $6 to $8. Idaho grocers, including Simerly’s Market, report shortages, especially of cage-free and brown eggs. State Veterinarian Scott Leibsle warns that rising bird flu cases, particularly in backyard flocks, are leading to mass culls. Experts predict that high egg prices could persist for another six to eight months.

Idaho Transportation Department Building Update

The Idaho Transportation Department’s headquarters may remain vacant for years after a flood condemned the building. The state initially planned to sell it but reversed course and opted for repairs. A recent report, however, revealed that repair costs could exceed $70 million, more than double the initial estimate of $32.5 million.

Salmon Man Pleads Guilty

In Salmon, 22-year-old Roger Denig has pleaded guilty to killing his 2-month-old daughter, Ammarie Denig, using an Alford plea for voluntary manslaughter. Prosecutors are recommending a sentence of 8 to 15 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for February 18.

Expanded Access to Birth Control in Idaho

Idahoans can now obtain up to six months of prescription birth control at once, thanks to Senate Bill 1234, which took effect on January 1. The law requires insurance to cover extended supplies of contraception, aiming to improve access and support women’s health.

Sports

Gooding Boys’ Basketball Victory

The Gooding Senators dominated on the road, defeating the Hansen Huskies 68-19 in boys’ basketball. By halftime, Gooding led 39-11. Eli Esterbrook led the Senators with 17 points, while Max Kelsey, Dryson Patterson, and Brady Thill each added 11. Gooding, now 6-5, will face Filer in a conference matchup Thursday. Hansen, with a 2-7 record, will host Dietrich on Friday.

Declo vs. Buhl Girls’ Basketball Showdown

The Declo Hornets, undefeated at 8-0, face the Buhl Indians tonight at 7 p.m. Declo crushed Melba 64-25 last week, while Buhl, at 2-6, recently lost to Fruitland 66-58. Can Declo avenge last year’s loss to Buhl, or will history repeat itself?

Additional Local Games

Girls’ Basketball: Camas County vs. Bliss, Carey at Dietrich, Kimberly at Jerome, Murtaugh vs. Glenns Ferry, Valley at Oakley, Raft River at Shoshone.
Boys’ Basketball: Richfield vs. Castleford, Preston at Burley, Carey vs. Dietrich, Canyon Ridge at Highland (Pocatello), Kimberly at Jerome, Filer vs. Sugar Salem.

Boise State Star Declares for NFL Draft

Boise State defensive end Ahmed Hassanein has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. The All-Mountain West standout tallied 120 tackles, 24 sacks, and three forced fumbles during his collegiate career. He aims to become the first Egyptian player in NFL history.

New Idaho Vandals Coaching Hire

Idaho head football coach Thomas Ford Jr. has announced Sheldon Cross as the Vandals’ new tight ends coach and recruiting coordinator. Cross brings extensive experience, having served as an offensive coordinator at multiple FCS schools and coached All-American quarterback Sam Huard.

Weather

Today

Areas of fog before 11 a.m. Mostly sunny, high near 37°F.
Tonight: Patchy fog after 11 p.m. Partly cloudy, low around 24°F.

Wednesday

Patchy fog before 11 a.m. Mostly sunny, high near 39°F.
Wednesday night: Increasing clouds, low around 25°F.

Thursday

Patchy fog before 11 a.m. Mostly sunny, high near 37°F.
Thursday night: Mostly clear, low around 21°F.

Extended Forecast

Friday: Partly sunny, high near 39°F. Chance of rain/snow Friday night (20%).
Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 36°F.
Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 34°F.
Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 33°F.