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Idaho Freedom Foundation’s ‘Pride in America’ Spotlight: Pat Buchanan

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

June 29, 2023

Pat Buchanan, speechwriter to presidents, journalist, and commentator, is highlighted in most recent installment of the IFF’s ‘Pride in America’ series.  Author Brian Almon sums up his career, paying special attention to Buchanan’s predictions for the future in both his 1992 “Culture War” speech and his 2011 book, Suicide of a Superpower.  Almon writes, “In the years to come, Buchanan’s warnings will go down in history like those of Cassandra before the burning of Troy.  Nevertheless, Pat Buchanan’s life remains a story of American achievement. Using only his brain and his pen, he gained the ear of politicians and presidents and set the standard for conservative ideas for three generations.”

The ‘Pride in America’ series is the Idaho Freedom Foundation’s month-long celebration of  individuals “who ha[ve] demonstrated and defended American values.”  Since June 1, the series has recognized people as diverse as explorer Davy Crockett, entrepreneur Elon Musk, saleswoman Nancy Green, and athlete Riley Gaines.

The full article may be read on the Idaho Freedom Foundation’s website, here.

 

 

AMVETS Breakfast, Saturday, July 1, at Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building; Everyone Welcome!

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

June 29, 2023

The next AMVETS of Pocatello “1st Saturday of the Month Pancake Breakfast” is Saturday, July 1, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at the Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building, 300 N. Johnson Avenue.

The AMVETS cooks encourage all to come down and join them for their Grand Slam breakfast.

Breakfasts include pancakes, eggs, bacon, hashbrowns, two kinds of sausage, biscuits & gravy, coffee, and orange juice.  Nobody goes away hungry!

The members of the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State will be working the tables for Tips & Donations.

Breakfast is only $8.00…and kids 5 years old and younger eat free!

 

 

 

 

Governor Declares July 2 Idaho Wildland Firefighter Day

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

(Governor’s Office Press Release, June 27, 2023)

Boise, ID – Governor Brad Little has proclaimed July 2 as Idaho Wildland Firefighter Day.

The proclamation recognizes the highly dangerous work Idaho wildland firefighters accomplish in the protection of the more than 9 million acres of private, state and federal land.

Last year Idaho’s wildland firefighters fought 287 wildfires on 4,676 acres, holding 92% of the fires to 10 acres or less. These men and women spend weeks living and working in dirt and smoke and working up against heat and flames while they protect our communities, natural resources, watersheds, recreational opportunities and the forest products industry, which accounts for $2.4 billion of Idaho’s economy.

“Without this skilled workforce in Idaho we wouldn’t be able to combat the continued threat of wildfire,” said Governor Little. “Idaho has invested in our wildland fire program to assure they can respond effectively to the severe fire seasons that are increasingly the new norm in Idaho.”

 

 

 

“As we enter this fire season, it is important we recognize our wildland firefighters and the important work they do,” Little added. “I encourage the people of Idaho to join me in observing Idaho Wildland Firefighter Day.”

So far this summer, Idaho Department of Lands has fought 75 fires, 43 of which were human caused, with 436 acres burned.

Celebrate Idaho Wildland Firefighter Day by doing your part to prevent unwanted human-caused wildfires. Learn how by visiting https://www.idl.idaho.gov/fire-management/fire-prevention-and-preparedness/. Sign up to receive text or email wildfire alerts about fires under IDL protection by visiting http://www.idl.idaho.gov/alerts.

Idaho Wildland Firefighter Day occurs in conjunction with the National Wildland Firefighter Day and during the Wildland Firefighter Week of Remembrance (June 30-July 6).

 

Recreate Responsibly Idaho: Be Careful with Fireworks This Weekend

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

(Recreate Responsibly Idaho Press Release, June 27, 2023)

STATEWIDE – After a cool, wet spring, Summer 2023 is here and the public is expected to head outdoors in potentially record numbers due to Idaho’s growing population. Recreate Responsibly Idaho (RRI) is reminding campers and outdoor recreationists to use extra care particularly in southern Idaho where wildfires were reported over the weekend. One of them, the Mile Marker 85 Highway 51 Fire, burned more than 200 acres of grass and sagebrush about six miles south of Mountain Home before containment.

Fireworks and recreation risks: Each year, fire officials see a spike in human-caused wildfires, particularly around the Fourth of July weekend, most often from unattended campfires, fireworks, dragging tow chains, driving on dry grass, and improper disposal of hot ashes and barbecue coals. On average, 80% of wildfires are caused by humans.

Concerns for Summer 2023: A wet spring in Idaho caused grasses and plants to grow tall, creating an abundance of fuels. Now rangelands and forests are starting to dry out which increases wildfire risk.

“Please remember that all fireworks – and even the possession of fireworks – are prohibited on federal public lands, regardless of weather conditions or if a person believes they are using fireworks safely,” said Recreate Responsibly Idaho Campaign Coordinator Robbie Johnson. “Recreate Responsibly Idaho is here to support the public with resources, guides, and reminders that we all must do our part to stay vigilant to avoid the destruction of catastrophic wildfire.”

 

 

Resources to prepare for the holiday weekend

Know before you go – Check the BLM Idaho Fire Information website at https://www.idahofireinfo.com/ and the Idaho Department of Lands Fire Information and Resources website at https://www.idl.idaho.gov/fire-management/ for wildland fire information near your destination.

Drown your campfire – Make sure your fire is “dead out” and cold to the touch before leaving your campsite or going to bed. Keep your campfire small and use a designated campfire ring when available and permissible.

Leave fireworks at home – Fireworks are prohibited on federal public lands. During closed fire season (May 10 to October 20), it is illegal to throw away any lighted material, including firecrackers or fireworks on any forest or rangeland in the state of Idaho (Idaho Code 38-117). Starting a wildfire with the use of fireworks is considered negligence, and the person who started the fire could be billed for the cost of fighting the fire (Idaho Code 38-107).

Don’t be the spark – Do not drive or park on dry grass. Hot exhaust pipes or sparks can start a fire. This applies to off-highway vehicles and personal vehicles.

Check your chains – When pulling a trailer, be sure safety chains and other metal parts aren’t hanging from your vehicle as these can drag and cause sparks.

 

 

Recreate Responsibly Idaho (RRI) partners have worked for several years to inform and remind recreationists statewide about best practices when it comes to putting out campfires, fire safety in general, ATV, UTV and Off-Highway vehicle use, proper etiquette at boat ramps, water and lifejacket safety, minding your wake on lakes, rivers and reservoirs, and more. These efforts empower individuals to recreate responsibly with the support of Idaho businesses, outdoor and conservation organizations, government agencies, and all who love Idaho.

The RRI outreach team includes the Bureau of Land Management, U.S.D.A Forest Service, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, Idaho Department of Lands, Idaho Department of Commerce, Idaho Department of Transportation, and the Idaho Rangeland Resources Commission.

New this season: We are inviting the public to let us know when there is an issue and encourage proper use of Idaho’s outdoors. Recreate Responsibly Idaho’s Show and Tell Summer campaign provides an easy way for the public to simply take a picture of an issue, use a QR code to upload the image, and provide a location. Pictures of recreating the right way are also encouraged, as it helps remind people to recreate responsibly.

 

Idaho Freedom Foundation’s ‘Pride in America’ Spotlight: Thomas Edison

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

June 28, 2023

Today, the IFF’s ‘Pride in America’ series honors the man whose inventions did much to create the world we know today.  Thomas Edison, inventor of the lightbulb, the phonograph, and the alkaline battery, still inspires young people to push past failure until they find success.  Author Niklas Kleinworth traces his career, and challenges present-day Americans to learn from his example:

“One part of honoring Thomas Edison requires Americans to teach their children the value of problem-solving, hard work, and the pursuit of knowledge. The second part requires returning to a true, free-market system of innovation — removing subsidies and market constraints imposed by the bureaucracy. These components must be accomplished together to provide both the interest and the environment ripe for America to lead the world in life-changing technological innovation.”

The ‘Pride in America’ series is the Idaho Freedom Foundation’s month-long celebration of  individuals “who ha[ve] demonstrated and defended American values.”  Since June 1, the series has recognized people as diverse as explorer Davy Crockett, entrepreneur Elon Musk, saleswoman Nancy Green, and athlete Riley Gaines.

The full article may be read on the Idaho Freedom Foundation’s website, here.

 

 

Construction Begins on Water Pollution Control Facility Improvements

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

(City of Pocatello Press Release, June 27, 2023)

The City of Pocatello Water Pollution Control (WPC) Department has begun construction on a significant facilities upgrade project. The “Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF) Package #1 Improvements” project, includes several components of high importance for the operations of the wastewater treatment facility. The project consists of replacing aeration diffusers, recoating a digester cover with protective paint, installing a pumped mixing system in digester #3, replacing the co-generation gas condensate trap, and installing a new screw press dewatering system for the digested solids. These project components address the highest priority issues identified in the 2021 Wastewater Facilities Planning Study.

 

 

The construction general contractor for the project is Engineered Structures, Inc. The engineering team includes Keller Associates, Inc. and Stantec Consulting, who have developed the project design and will provide construction phase services. The City previously entered into contracts for purchasing equipment associated with this project with Huber Technology and Xylem Water Solutions. The project costs approximately $12 million and will be funded by user rate dollars reserved in the WPC Capital Construction Fund. The project is projected to be completed in early 2025.

Completing the WPCF Package #1 project addresses items of critical concern for biosolids management capacity, maintenance life of essential components, and reliability of the Pocatello WPCF. The project advances the 20-year management plan for the facility by addressing the first critical items and laying the groundwork for additional needed improvements, including aeration blower replacement and composting.

To learn more about Pocatello Projects, click HERE.

 

 

Fireworks Safety Tips for the Holiday

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

(City of Pocatello Press Release, June 27, 2023)

Fireworks during the Fourth of July are as traditional as cookouts and parades. However, more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year in the United States. Over half of these fires are a result of fireworks. Everyone can have a safe and enjoyable holiday by following some simple safety tips.

Buy Legal Fireworks: Ensure you only buy legal fireworks for the City of Pocatello (remember, safe & sane).  Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper. This often indicates a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays only.

Where to Light Fireworks: Remember portions of town are banned from using fireworks (such as Johnny Creek, Satterfield, and the West Bench). You can visit Pocatello-Maps to check restrictions in your area.

Lighting Fireworks: Read and follow all warnings printed on the label. Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from houses and flammable materials, and keep a bucket of water or a water supply nearby for emergencies. Don’t try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks – instead, soak them with water and throw them away. Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially glass or metal, and light all fireworks with a long-handled lighter, jumbo punk or a flare. Allow adequate time for the fireworks to cool before disposing. Ensure all fireworks are extinguished, and nothing is smoldering in the area. Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks, do not try to alter or combine fireworks. Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks, and never throw or shoot fireworks at another person.

 

 

Children and Fireworks: Never give fireworks to small children, and closely supervise older children. Do not allow running or boisterous play while fireworks are being used. Even simple fireworks like sparklers can do serious injury. Sparklers burn at temperatures that range from 1200 to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to melt glass and some metals

Pets and Fireworks: Remember, pets and fireworks do not mix. Many pets become stressed and fearful during this season and will try to hide or run away from the noise and lights. Make sure your pet has somewhere safe and secure to hide and make sure they cannot escape.

For more information on firework safety, visit National Fire Protection Association or call Pocatello Fire Department at 208-234-6201.

 

Stand Up For Idaho to Host Showing of D’Souza Film “America: Imagine the World Without Her” Tonight, Wednesday, July 28

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

June 28, 2023

Idaho Falls–At their weekly meeting tonight, Stand Up For Idaho will show Dinesh D’ Souza’s film, “America: Imagine the World Without Her”.  SUFI’s announcement reads:

Just in time for Independence Day.  We will be showing America: Imagine the World Without Her.  This is a great film everyone needs to see as it brings to light many reasons why America is facing the problems she is today.

America: Imagine the World Without Her is a 2014 American political documentary film by Dinesh D’Souza based on his book of the same name. It is a follow-up to his film 2016: Obama’s America (2012). In the film, D’Souza contends that parts of United States history are improperly and negatively highlighted by liberals, which he seeks to counter with positive highlights. Topics addressed include conquest of Indigenous and Mexican lands, slavery, and matters relating to foreign policy and capitalism. D’Souza collaborated with John Sullivan and Bruce Schooley to adapt his book of the same name into a screenplay. D’Souza produced the film with Gerald R. Molen and directed it with Sullivan. The film combined historical reenactments with interviews with different political figures.

Stand Up For Idaho meets at the Snake River Event Center (Shilo Inn), located at 780 Lindsay Blvd. in Idaho Falls.  Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the film begins at 6:30 p.m.

Congressman Mike Simpson: Why Community Project Funding Matters for Idaho

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

(Congressman Mike Simpson Press Release, June 16, 2023)

Washington, D.C. – “I often hear about people’s frustration that Congress is not working on their behalf, and with all the political grandstanding and bickering going on, I get their point.  But one way in which Congress is working on your behalf is through Community Project Funding (CPF).  Opponents of CPFs have mischaracterized them as wasteful and irresponsible, but in reality, this process restores Congress’ constitutional responsibility over the federal budget process and gives Idahoans a critical voice in determining where that budgeted funding goes.

“Congressionally-directed spending through the CPF program is not more spending.  It simply allows members to assert priorities in their own districts within the existing budget limits.  No federal bureaucrat in Washington, D.C., knows Idaho the way you and I do.  I have lived in Idaho’s second district for nearly all my life.  I’ve spent two decades in Congress listening to Idahoans and seeing firsthand what really matters to them.  Handing over all decisions about allocating the federal budget over to the executive branch has not gone well for Idaho in the past, but through the CPF program I can bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities.  If I didn’t advocate for these priorities, that money would not go to deficit reduction; it would just get spent on pet projects in places like California or New York.

 

 

 

“Earmark opponents like to poke fun at projects without providing any context for why that funding matters to the community in question.  But you tend to see CPFs in a different light when they address a need in your own community.  In the past year, for example, I have championed grants to Idaho communities to prevent sewage from backing up into homes, upgrades for an Idaho fire station that didn’t even have running water, and repairs to failing roads in towns throughout the second congressional district.  Each of these projects has broad community support and buy-in from local governments, and every single one went through a rigorous vetting process to even be considered, meeting stringent transparency requirements and ultimately receiving approval from both committee and agency staff.  If you are interested in knowing more about a project, all the information is on my website.

“Over the years, I’ve supported many projects like those highlighted above, each one important to a community in Idaho.  In fact, it’s likely that you are currently benefiting from the safer roads, rehabilitated river walls, or improved sewer systems funded through this program.  People should know the truth about what’s happening with their taxpayer dollars, so I intend to highlight the important Idaho projects included in this year’s appropriations bills over the next few weeks.

“As your representative, I take seriously my responsibility to advocate for Idaho’s priorities within a responsible federal budget.  Abdicating this responsibility wouldn’t reduce federal spending by a single penny; it would just send those funds to pet projects in other states or to a federal agency to spend at its discretion.  At the end of the day, I would rather fight for impactful, important Idaho projects any day of the week.”

 

Idaho Freedom Caucus: Have You Ever Seen a Baby Pigeon?

By
Karyn Simmons
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0

June 26, 2023

Have You Ever Seen a Baby Pigeon?

By: Idaho Freedom Caucus

In the Idaho Legislature, there has been ongoing debate on bills aimed at prohibiting the distribution of harmful materials to children. House Bill 314, The School and Library Protection Act, would safeguard children from accessing obscene material in libraries and schools. It did not advocate for censorship but ensured that minors were not exposed to explicit content deemed harmful and inappropriate for their age group.

The governor vetoed H314, and the House fell one vote short of overriding the veto.

As the legislature continues to have difficulty getting bills to protect kids from objectional material passed, parents have taken matters into their own hands. They attend school and library board meetings to address their concerns about harmful materials reaching children. These parents express worries and advocate for stricter policies and safeguards to protect children from accessing inappropriate content. They actively work to remove unresponsive trustees and support board members who prioritize children’s well-being and safety. Their engagement demonstrates their strong commitment to creating a safe and suitable learning environment for their children.

 

 

We saw this play out in several districts across the state. The race for two seats on the Community Library Network board in north Idaho became highly contentious, with the central focus being the debate over what kinds of materials should be available in public libraries. The winners were those who pledged to protect children from harmful materials in libraries.

Recently, Representative Tony Wisniewski attended the swearing-in of the newly elected Community Library Network Trustees.

He made a good point by asking if anyone had seen a baby pigeon. (Have you?) Just because you haven’t seen something yourself doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Many people claim they haven’t seen objectionable materials, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t real or aren’t in our libraries.

Rep. Wisniewski set the record straight, stating that the advocates for library system reforms are not a small group. He highlighted that 46 out of 70 House members, comprising a 65% majority (just one vote short of a supermajority), voted to override the governor’s veto. The representatives are elected from 35 districts in the state and represent the voices of 1 million voters. The support for reform extends far beyond a small faction.

It’s clear that there is a strong commitment to keeping objectionable materials out of libraries, and the Idaho Freedom Caucus will continue to lead the way.

We thank Representative Wisniewski for standing up for parents and their concerns. His support strengthens our efforts to protect children.

 

 

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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.
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