🌱 New Plan To Address Opioid Crisis + Capitol Riot Sentencing

Hi, Idaho Falls! Like many of you, the Patch team will be taking some time off for Labor Day. I’ll be back in your inbox after the long weekend, but until then, here’s what’s happening in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Saturday: A thunderstorm in spots. High: 84 Low: 59.
• Sunday: A heavy t-storm; not as warm. High: 77 Low: 54.
• Monday: Mainly cloudy with a thunderstorm in spots. High: 64 Low: 50.

Here are the top three stories in Idaho Falls today:

1. The Idaho Falls Police Department and Fire Department launched a new plan on International Overdose Awareness Day (Aug. 31) to address the opioid crisis, prioritizing a non-arrest approach to guide those with substance use disorders toward recovery. Their goal is to prevent opioid-related deaths and reduce the strain on the criminal justice system. This initiative, part of the Community Outreach Partnership and Education program, involves a social worker and detective following up with individuals post-overdose and aims to expand as funding becomes available, focusing on mental health support as well. (East Idaho News)
2. Tyler John Tew, an Idaho Falls man, is set to be sentenced on Oct. 12 for his involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot. Tew pleaded guilty to all four federal charges against him, including entering and remaining in a restricted building, disorderly and disruptive conduct, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading in a Capitol building. More than 1,000 individuals have been arrested in connection with the riot, which resulted in significant financial costs and seven deaths, as reported by the United States Government Accountability Office. (Post Register)
3. The Idaho Falls School District Board of Trustees is planning to challenge the Idaho State Tax Commission's decision to not certify a levy for a new elementary school, despite voters approving a 10-year, $33-million plant facilities levy in May. The Board aims to seek legal clarification on whether school districts can have two plant facilities levies simultaneously, as the tax commission's rule doesn't specify whether multiple levies are allowed. This dispute may potentially delay construction and require additional voter support for the district's plans for a new elementary school. (LocalNews8.com)

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Today and tomorrow in Idaho Falls:

Saturday, September 2

• Idaho Falls Farmers' Market At 600 Memorial Drive (9:00 AM)

Sunday, September 3

• Sunday Makebreak: Fall Painted Rocks At Ashment Shopping Center (2:00 PM)

Monday, September 4

• Women's Coffee At New Day Lutheran Church (10:00 AM)

Tuesday, September 5

• Beer Group At Idaho Brewing Company (3:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Idaho Falls Zoo has announced its fall hours and events, such as the Masquerade Ball and Glow Light Party. Click the link for more details! (LocalNews8.com)
• A new counseling center has opened in Idaho Falls, offering marriage and individual counseling services with a specialization in trauma and PTSD. Co-owner Whitney Anderson is currently serving about 200 clients in eastern Idaho with a focus on improving their lives through therapy. (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)

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Thanks for following along and staying informed. See you all soon for another update!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.