🌱 Idaho Falls Zoo Receives Prestigious Award + Special Needs Fair

Good morning, Idaho Falls! I'm Nicole Fallon-Peek and I'll be filling in for Sean Peek today. Here is everything you need to know today in five minutes or less.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: A stray afternoon t-shower. High: 81 Low: 46.
• Friday: Partly sunny. High: 81 Low: 44.

Here are the top three stories in Idaho Falls today:

1. The Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park has been recognized for its 25 years of continuous accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), receiving the prestigious AZA Quarter Century Award. This acknowledgment highlights the zoo's dedication to upholding high standards in animal care, conservation, education, and more. The Idaho Falls Zoo has been AZA-accredited since 1998 and plays an active role in wildlife protection and conservation efforts, making it a leader in the zoological profession. (Idaho State Journal)
2. Anastassia Rogers, the founder of the local support group "It Takes a Village in Idaho," is organizing the "Special Needs Fair 2023" in Idaho Falls to assist families and individuals with disabilities in accessing resources. The free event, scheduled for Saturday, Sep. 9, from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at Connections Therapy Centers, aims to bring together various local organizations and resources that cater to people with disabilities and their families. Additionally, there will be an "Adaptive and Assistive Product Swap" at the same location, allowing families to exchange or find suitable equipment for individuals with disabilities of all ages. (East Idaho News)
3. A person was hospitalized following a small explosion that occurred at Melaleuca Field around 9:45 p.m. on Monday in the back parking lot of the baseball stadium. The incident involved an unknown explosive device, and one individual sustained a foot injury, prompting their transport to the hospital via ambulance. The Idaho Falls Police are currently investigating the incident and have requested anyone with information or video footage to contact them at (208) 529-1200. (East Idaho News)

Big love to our local sponsor. We couldn’t keep the community informed without you!

Looking for a realtor in Idaho Falls that truly cares about their clients? Look no further than Kimberly and Craig Anderson with the Anderson Hicks Group. But don't take our word for it - check out the over 800 5-star reviews! Clients rave about the personalized and stress-free experience they received, with Craig and Kimberly going above and beyond to ensure a smooth process. Their commitment to professionalism and customer satisfaction is unmatched - trust them for all your real estate needs!

Want to see your business featured in this spot? Click here to get started.

Today and tomorrow in Idaho Falls:

Thursday, September 7

• STEAM Club At Idaho Falls Public Library (4:00 PM)

Friday, September 8

• Sippin' Safari Concert Series At Idaho Falls Zoo At Tautphaus Park (5:30 PM)

From our partner:

Do you know a teacher making a difference in Idaho Falls? Nominate them here for a Teacher Spotlight on Patch.

From my notebook:

• Local law enforcement leaders, including Bonneville County Sheriff Sam Hulse, Ucon Chief of Police Jake Fulmer, Idaho State Police Captain Chris Weadick, and Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney Randy Neal, will hold a town hall forum today, Sep. 7, at Ucon City Hall at 6:30 p.m. Residents of Ucon and the north side of Bonneville County are invited to attend and ask questions regarding law enforcement and crime-related issues in the area. (East Idaho News)
• Thinking of dipping your toes into the housing market? Check out the list of open houses happening this week in the Idaho Falls area at the link. (Idaho Falls Patch)
• A portion of S. Holmes Avenue from Sunnyside Road south to W. 49th S. will be closed to traffic with the expectation of reopening by Friday, Sep. 8. The closure is required to facilitate utility work related to a new development in the area. (LocalNews8.com)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured events:

• T-Mobile Tuesdays: Get Free Stuff And Great Perks Every Week (September 12)
• Add your event

Alrighty, you're all good for today. I'll see you soon!

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.