Good morning, Rexburg.

South Fremont firefighters returned from the Big Rock Fire near Heise Hot Springs on Sunday with no injuries reported.

Additional crews boosted numbers from 126 to 250 to help contain a stable 2,204-acre blaze and protect nearby structures and trails.

Firefighters and local farmers fought a 100-acre wildfire sparked by railroad bridge repair work in the Sunnydell area southwest of Rexburg on Wednesday afternoon; the blaze threatened one residence and triggered a road closure on 8000 South to 1600 East as multiple crews worked to bring it under control.

Construction of Rexburg’s new Olive Garden on University Boulevard will finish on Nov.

2, allowing the $4 million restaurant to seat up to 208 guests. Local officials and supervisor Kevin Rambo say the project is on track to boost local dining options.

Rigby High School teacher Stefanie Fuchs, who has taught history for 14 years, was named Idaho History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality urged residents to use trusted air quality resources amid wildfire smoke affecting many parts of Idaho.

Updated forecasts and current conditions are available on their website (www.deq.idaho.gov) and the free AIR Idaho mobile app.

The Urban Renewal Agency is reviewing options for the old seminary building at 39 North 1st West (formerly used by Madison School District 321) amid debates over preservation and demolition due to limited funds.

Bids for the 5.7-acre property opened in November 2025, leaving local officials divided over its future.