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Governor Little Proclaims July 2, as Wildland Firefighter Day in Idaho

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Observer Staff
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(Photo Credit: Karyn Simmons)

(Governor’s Office Press Release, July 1, 2026)

Boise, Idaho – Governor Brad Little has proclaimed July 2, 2026, as Wildland Firefighter Day in Idaho, joining the national observance recognizing the dedication, service, and sacrifice of wildland firefighters and support personnel across the country.

Wildland Firefighter Day honors the men and women who work tirelessly to protect lives, property, natural resources, and communities from the threat of wildfire. The observance also recognizes the many individuals who support wildfire response efforts, including dispatchers, aviation personnel, equipment operators, incident management teams, prevention specialists, communications personnel, and agency support staff.

“Wildland firefighters answer the call under some of the most challenging conditions imaginable,” said Dustin Miller, director of the Idaho Department of Lands. “They spend long days and nights away from their families, often in difficult terrain and hazardous conditions, protecting Idaho’s citizens, landscapes, and communities. Wildland Firefighter Day is an opportunity to recognize their commitment, professionalism, and sacrifice.”

The Idaho Department of Lands is responsible for protecting more than 6 million acres of state and private forestland and provides wildfire protection through a network of area offices, fire personnel, equipment, and cooperative agreements with local, state, tribal, and federal partners. Throughout the year, firefighters train extensively and remain prepared to respond to wildfires across Idaho and throughout the nation when called upon.

The national observance of Wildland Firefighter Day was established in 2022 to recognize the contributions of wildland firefighters and to honor those who have been injured or lost their lives in the line of duty. Each year, thousands of firefighters and support personnel work together to respond to wildfires while helping communities prepare for and reduce wildfire risk.

“As we recognize Wildland Firefighter Day, we also acknowledge the families who support those serving in wildland fire,” Miller said. “Their sacrifices often go unseen, but they are an important part of the wildfire response community.”

The Idaho Department of Lands encourages Idahoans to take a moment on July 2 to thank the wildland firefighters and support personnel who dedicate themselves to protecting people, property, and natural resources.

For more information about National Wildland Firefighter Day visit: https://www.nifc.gov/nwffd

Social Security Administration Celebrates America’s 250th with Commemorative Cards for Newborns

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Observer Staff
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(SSA Press Release, July 1, 2026)

Baltimore, MD – The Social Security Administration (SSA) today announced a first-of-its-kind commemorative Social Security card for children born in the United States between July 2 and December 31, 2026, celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence. The limited-edition cards, identical in function to a standard Social Security card, will feature the official Freedom 250 logo in black ink, marking the recipient’s birth during the nation’s 250th year.

The commemorative cards will be issued as part of the Enumeration at Birth (EAB) program, where parents at hospitals, birthing centers, or those using licensed midwives can request a Social Security number during the birth registration process.

“Freedom 250 is a celebration of America’s storied history and the monumental moments that have shaped our nation, including the creation of Social Security over 90 years ago,” said Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano. “The next generation of Americans born during this historic year will receive limited-edition Social Security cards bearing the Freedom 250 logo. Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, we are strengthening Social Security, improving service, and building an SSA to serve Americans today and in the future.”

The official Freedom 250 designation is exclusively for original cards issued through the EAB program to newborns during the qualifying period. EAB cards issued outside the July 2 – December 31, 2026, timeframe and all replacement and duplicate cards will not carry the commemorative designation regardless of the cardholder’s birth date. For additional information, please visit www.ssa.gov/faqs.

SSA has issued Social Security numbers to newborns since 1987 through the EAB program, a partnership with hospitals and state vital records offices across the country. More than 3.5 million children are born in the United States each year. The commemorative cards will be produced at no additional cost to families or taxpayers.

Beware of Scams

SSA asks that you protect yourself and your loved ones from scams. SSA will never call, text, or email you requesting payment to obtain a commemorative card for your child or otherwise. Parents do not need to apply, register, or provide information beyond what is already collected through the standard EAB program.

If you receive a suspicious communication claiming to be from SSA or from a third party on behalf of the agency, please report it to the Office of the Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov/report or call 1-800-269-0271. To learn about Social Security scams, please visit www.ssa.gov/scam.

For more information about Social Security’s services, visit www.ssa.gov.

Community Invited to America 250: Pocatello Time Capsule Dedication Ceremony July 3

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Observer Staff
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(City of Pocatello Press Release, June 30, 2026)

The City of Pocatello invites the community to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at the America 250: Pocatello Time Capsule Dedication Ceremony on Friday, July 3, at Marshall Public Library, 113 South Garfield Avenue.

Festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. on the east side of the Library. Grab a red, white, and blue snow cone and enjoy complimentary water and cookies courtesy of Walmart. Guests can also pick up a free commemorative America 250 pin and sticker while supplies last. While you’re at the event, be sure to take a selfie in front of the America 250 backdrop provided by Lookout Credit Union.

The Pocatello Time Capsule, designed, built, and generously donated by Partner Steel, preserves a snapshot of our community for future generations. Following the ceremony, it will be permanently displayed on the second floor of Marshall Public Library, where it will remain for the next 50 years before being opened.

“This time capsule captures a moment in Pocatello’s history and creates a lasting connection between today’s residents and future generations,” said Mayor Mark Dahlquist. “We’re excited to invite the community to celebrate this milestone and be part of something that will be remembered for years to come.”

Residents of all ages are encouraged to attend this free event and be among the first to see the finished time capsule.

The trademark ‘AMERICA 250’ is owned by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and is licensed to the state of Idaho for limited use, time, and purpose.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the City of Pocatello to offer its public programs, services, and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.  If you are disabled and require an accommodation, please contact Skyler Beebe with two (2) business days’ advance notice at sbeebe@pocatello.gov; 208.234.6248; or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho.  Advance notification within this guideline will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility.

Highland High School Rebuild Advances with First New Spaces Opening This Winter

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Observer Staff
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(PCSD 25 Press Release, June 30, 2026)

POCATELLO, IDAHO – The next chapter in the rebuilding of Highland High School is coming into focus. As construction crews begin work on the new tennis courts and parking lot across Bench Road, Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 remains on schedule to welcome learners and staff into the first phase of the new campus following winter break on January 4, 2027—just months away.

The new six-court tennis complex will serve Highland High School student-athletes and the broader community through a partnership with the City of Pocatello. The project reflects a long-standing collaboration between the City and School District 25 to invest in shared recreational resources that benefit learners, families, and the community.

Since an accidental electrical fire in April 2023 damaged approximately 75,000 square feet of Highland High School, the District, Board of Trustees, architects, engineers, contractors, legislators, and community partners have worked together to restore and reimagine the campus. Today, that vision is becoming reality as major construction milestones continue to be reached.

Opening January 4, 2027

  • Six new classrooms
  • Cafeteria, kitchen, and commons area
  • Multi-level gymnasium, weight room, indoor track, and wrestling room
  • Locker rooms and athletic/training offices

Coming July 2027

  • Choir, band, orchestra, and drama classrooms
  • Performing arts facilities

“This project has always been about restoring more than a building,” said Superintendent Dr. Douglas Howell. “Highland is a place where generations of learners have built friendships, discovered their passions, and created lifelong memories. Every milestone brings us closer to welcoming learners and staff back into a campus that honors that legacy while providing exceptional learning spaces for the future.”

Following occupancy of Phase 1, construction will continue toward the completion of Phase 2, which includes the performing arts facilities and remaining music and theater classrooms. The entire campus remains on track for completion in August 2027, in time for the start of the 2027-2028 school year.

Community members are encouraged to follow the progress of the rebuild through the district’s dedicated project website, where they can explore architectural renderings, construction updates, project history, and time-lapse videos documenting the transformation.

Follow the Highland High School rebuild at: www.sd25.us/rebuildinghighland

HHS Secretary Kennedy Ends COVID-19 Emergency Use Authorizations

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Observer Staff
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(Department of Health and Human Services Press Release, June 30, 2026; Cover image credit: HHS FB)

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced [Tuesday] that Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has signed determinations terminating the COVID-19 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) declarations for drugs and biological products and for medical devices, concluding that the circumstances that justified these emergency authorities no longer exist.

“Americans deserve a regulatory system that is transparent, accountable, and rooted in the rule of law,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “By ending these COVID-19 emergency use authorization declarations, we’re reinforcing public confidence that emergency authorities are temporary and targeted.”

The terminations will take effect following advance notice periods to ensure an orderly transition. The declaration for drugs and biological products will terminate 12 months after the Secretary’s determination, while the declarations for medical devices will terminate 180 days after the Secretary’s determination.

The COVID-19 EUA declarations were first issued in 2020 to enable rapid access to medical products during the pandemic. Since then, the public health landscape has changed substantially. FDA-approved, cleared, and licensed products are now widely available through traditional regulatory pathways, reliance on EUA products has declined, and manufacturers have had years to prepare for a transition from emergency authorities.

The advance notice periods are designed to provide manufacturers, healthcare providers, health systems, distributors, and patients adequate time to transition away from products authorized solely under the COVID-19 EUA declarations. During this transition, HHS and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will continue working with manufacturers on appropriate regulatory pathways for products seeking traditional approval, clearance, or licensure.

HHS will publish notices of the terminations in the Federal Register and provide the notifications required by law to Congress.

Ski Ingram’s “A Veteran’s Thoughts:” 250 Years of Exceptionalism

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Observer Staff
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July 1, 2026

250 Years of Exceptionalism

Ski Ingram

By: Ski Ingram

I believe that God inspired Thomas Jefferson when he wrote the Declaration of Independence. I also believe that God inspired our forefathers as they worked to write our Constitution, which is like no other on earth. This is why America is able to celebrate its 250th year of exceptionalism.

I am a combat veteran and a retired police officer. Like many of you I have risked my life many times to defend our Constitution and our way of life. Using my training and experience, I’ll explain why I believe America is an exceptional place in which to live and raise a family. America was built on the lofty principle that all men are created equal and that they have certain rights given to them by God. Because these rights are God-given, man cannot take them away, a completely new concept at the time. In every other civilization, citizens’ rights came from man, such as a king or dictator.

Another new concept was the idea of limited government. The rights guaranteed by God are “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Americans are free to pursue happiness because their government was limited. History has shown that when a single monarch, dictator or political group has complete power, personal rights and freedoms are always diminished then ultimately taken away completely.

Another concept unique to America is the idea of equal justice under the law. Our founders were not thinking of social justice as many do today. They did not expect that everyone should be equal in wealth or social status because they knew that everyone had different talents and opportunities in life. Nothing was guaranteed except your right to pursue your ambitions and your happiness.

Traveling to Mt. Rushmore in South Dakota, you will see four of our greatest American presidents. They should remind us all how exceptional America has been for 250 years. The four faces on the mountain are, from left to right: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

Washington, the father of our country, was a man the Lord spared from death during the many battles he was in. He had horses shot out from under him. He had bullet holes shot though his tunic, but not into his body. As a young man he contracted many disease among them, tuberculosis, diphtheria, dysentery, smallpox, malaria, and pneumonia. Just one of these diseases was a death sentence, but Washington was saved by the hand of God.

Thomas Jefferson was inspired to write these famous words, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”

Abraham Lincoln was the perfect man to save the union. He was a God-fearing man saved by the Lord to serve at that time. He was blessed by God with the vision needed during one of America’s darkest times,

Theodore Roosevelt wrote these words, “Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in that gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.” These words sum up the reasons America is exceptional, that freedom is not free, you have to work at it. Men and women are free to dream and then succeed in whatever they choose.

Our Constitution is exceptional. It gives us all the opportunity to succeed or fail. Americans have been given the wonderful gift of freedom. It is up to us to preserve it for future generations. Benjamin Franklin summed up this idea when a woman asked him,” Well Doctor, what have we got, a republic or a monarchy?” He replied, “A republic, if you can keep it.” We may never understand the price patriots paid for our freedom. Now is the time, for all freedom loving people, to save it.

Ski Ingram is a combat veteran and a patriot who can be reached at: www.Skiingram.com

Tribal Officials Urge Fireworks Safety during Drought Conditions; Fireworks Prohibited on All Tribal Property

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Observer Staff
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(Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, June 29, 2026)

FORT HALL- As Treaty Day and the Fourth of July holiday approaches, the Fort Hall Fire & EMS Department is reminding the community to celebrate responsibly and take extra precautions when using fireworks because of ongoing dry and drought conditions across the Fort Hall Reservation.

While fireworks are not banned, residents are encouraged to use extreme caution to prevent accidental wildfires to protect the community according to a press release.

Important Firework Safey Tips:

  • Only use fireworks in areas with little to no vegetation or in well- irrigated locations.
  • Wet down the area before or after lighting fireworks.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher, shovel, or garden hose readily available.
  • Never light fireworks in tall grass, dry weeds, or near structures.
  • Always supervise children around fireworks.
  • Ensure all fireworks debris is completely cool before disposing of it to prevent garbage can fires.
  • If a fire begins and grows beyond your ability to control it, call 911 immediately

For the safety of the community, fireworks are prohibited on all tribal property, including:

  • Sho-Ban High School parking lot.
  • Shoshone Bannock Festival Grounds.
  • Fort Hall Rodeo Grounds.
  • Any other property owned or managed by the Shoshone- Bannock Tribes.

Tribal Office of Emergency Management, Fort Hall Fire Department, and United States Wildland Fire Service would like to thank the community for your cooperation, support and commitment to protecting our people, lands, and resources.

Your efforts in following safety guidelines make a difference and help keep the Fort Hall Reservation safe for everyone.

Have a safe and wonderful Fort Hall Treaty Day celebration!

Respectfully Eric King Fire Chief, Dustin Williams United States Wildland Fire Service and the Tribal Office of Emergency Management

Help Prevent Wildfires this Fourth of July

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Observer Staff
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(Idaho Power News Brief, June 30, 2026)

This Fourth of July and throughout the summer, Idaho Power asks customers to help keep our communities safe and prevent power outages by using fireworks safely where they are allowed.

  • Keep a bucket of water at hand when lighting fireworks, and soak them after use.
  • Avoid using fireworks near dry vegetation and flammable materials.
  • Also keep a safe distance from overhead power lines and electrical equipment — like the green transformer boxes in neighborhoods.
  • Consider using safer options like glowsticks instead of sparklers.
  • Comply with all local fireworks ordinances.
If you are camping for the holiday, you can also help reduce the risk of wildfires by taking these simple steps:
  • Monitor and obey fire restrictions.
  • Use designated fire rings at campgrounds.
  • Fully extinguish campfires after use.
  • Never park or start vehicles on dry grass.
  • Ensure chains don’t touch the ground when driving.

Note: Fireworks are not allowed at Idaho Power parks or campgrounds.

For a fun activity to help teach kids about firework safety, download this free coloring sheet.

PCSD 25 Welcomes Newly Appointed Trustee Bill Osborn

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Observer Staff
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(Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 Press Release, June 30, 2026; Cover image credit: PCSD 25 FB)

PCSD 25 Trustee Bill Osborn (Photo credit: PCSD 25)

POCATELLO, IDAHO— At a Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 on Thursday, June 25, 2026, the Board selected Bill Osborn to serve as Trustee for Zone 3, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of longtime Trustee Jim Facer earlier this month. Mr. Osborn will take the oath of office during the Board’s Regular Meeting on Tuesday, July 21, at 3:30 p.m. Please note the special start time, as regular Board meetings typically begin at 5:30 p.m.

The Board of Trustees is pleased to welcome Osborn and introduce him to the District 25 community.

Originally from a small logging and lumber town in western Washington, Osborn earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Economics with a minor in Music Education from Central Washington University. His professional career included several decades in the insurance and estate planning industries before he founded and operated his own fire safety education company for more than twenty years. Following his retirement, Bill and his wife, Karen, made Pocatello their home.

Osborn said he is honored to serve the learners, families, employees, and taxpayers of School District 25 and looks forward to helping advance the district’s mission.

“Parents, students, and teachers all have a stake in what the Board does,” Osborn said. “I’m here to do my part in making sure all parties are represented fairly and treated equitably. I believe an open-door policy is the best policy. People need to know that their opinions matter and deserve to be taken seriously.”

Osborn is particularly passionate about supporting public education through strong fiscal stewardship while advocating for excellence in music and the arts, educational technology, and opportunities that prepare every learner for future success.

“We are grateful for Bill’s willingness to serve School District 25 and the families of Zone 3,” said Dr. Douglas Howell, Superintendent. “Effective school governance depends on dedicated community members who are willing to step forward and serve. We look forward to working alongside him as we continue to support the success of every learner.”

Outside of Board service, Osborn enjoys walking Bailey, the family’s dog, making music, exercising, and planning activities for the men and boys at his church. He says Pocatello reminds him of Ellensburg, Washington, where he attended college, making the community feel like home.

As he begins his service on the Board of Trustees, Osborn looks forward to listening to the community, supporting public education, and helping ensure every learner has the opportunity to succeed.

Idaho Family Policy Center Celebrates SCOTUS Decision on Fairness in Women’s Sports Act

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Observer Staff
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(IFPC Press Release, June 30, 2026)

BOISE – Idaho Family Policy Center, a pro-family Christian ministry, celebrates the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Little v. Hecox upholding protections for female athletes in girls’ sports.

Idaho Family Policy Center (formerly Family Policy Alliance of Idaho) worked closely with Rep. Barbara Ehardt (R-Idaho Falls), former Sen. Mary Souza (R-Coeur d’Alene), and our national partner Alliance Defending Freedom to get the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act (House Bill 500) across the finish line during the 2020 Legislative Session.

IFPC President Blaine Conzatti led the lobbying and grassroots mobilization effort, bringing together a coalition of allies to support the legislation as it was being considered by the state legislature and governor.

Ultimately, Idaho was the first state in the nation to pass such a law, leading the way for nearly 30 states across the country to eventually pass similar laws as part of the growing movement to save girls’ sports.

A statement from Blaine Conzatti, President for Idaho Family Policy Center:

We celebrate the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold the Fairness in Women’s Sport Act protecting a level playing field for female athletes in school sports.

Title IX was adopted by the federal government to ensure equal access to educational opportunities, including athletics, for girls. But allowing biological males to participate in girls’ sports violates the spirit of Title IX—depriving our girls of opportunities for victories, scholarships, and slots on teams, and jeopardizing their safety and dignity.

Over the last several years, we’ve seen more and more biological males win athletic championships designated for girls—making Idaho’s Fairness in Women’s Sports Act even more important.

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The Pocatello Chubbuck Observer seeks to be a fair and objective portal, where readers can find the local, regional and national news, recent facts and entertainment.
Contact us: jcrowder@pocatellochubbuckobserver

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