Good morning, Idaho Falls.

McKenna Christensen, an Idaho Falls woman adopted as a baby, reunited with her biological family at Chișinău International Airport after a nearly two-day journey; she learned six months ago that her adoption did not follow proper procedures (a discovery that changed her life).

Friends of the Children is expanding its support outreach into Fort Hall by establishing a clubhouse + assigning four-hour weekly mentors to help youth connect with their culture; the nonprofit has built partnerships with Shoshone-Bannock tribes to meet local academic and economic challenges.

The City of Idaho Falls and Community Food Basket are launching a $25,000 fundraiser to support local families facing food insecurity.

The online campaign starts at noon today and runs until 1 p.m. Saturday, July 4, with donations accepted via Venmo from $2.50 + $2,500.

Idaho Falls honors America's 250th birthday with events starting Saturday, July 4: the Firecracker 5K at 7 a.m. at South Boulevard and East 25th, Liberty on Parade at 9 a.m. near Idaho Falls High School, and Riverfest with food trucks, live music, and fireworks (10 p.m.).

Local stalwarts Mark and Judy Kirkham will be named Grand Marshals on Sept.

5 during the Eastern Idaho State Fair in Blackfoot — a nod to over 100 years of combined fair contributions — as they lead the parade on Shilling Street.

Idaho Falls Zoo introduced Lenny, a male snow leopard who arrived in June and is now sharing his habitat with Pandora as part of the Species Survival Plan—visitors can explore the exhibit during regular hours while staff monitor their gradual introduction.

Snake River Animal Shelter in Idaho Falls is showcasing 14 adoptable pets, including Besty, a 1-year-old cat, and Carl, a 3-year-old dog.

Visitors can stop by 3000 Lindsay Boulevard during business hours Tuesday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday until 5 p.m.

July Chamber Connect Lunch

12:00 – 1:30 PM — Westbank Convention Center — Chamber Member $25, Non-Member $35 — Network with local businesses and enjoy lunch while gaining insights from keynote speakers.

Chukars vs. Voyagers Baseball Game

$1 hot dog night — 7:05 – 10:05 PM — Melaleuca Field — Enjoy a fun evening of Chukars baseball with affordable snacks.

Great Falls Voyagers vs Idaho Falls Chukars

7:05-10:05 p.m. — Melaleuca Field — Free cap for first 500 attendees — Celebrate with Dally from Shoshone Bannock at a fun baseball game.

Billings Mustangs vs Idaho Falls Chukars

7:05-10:05 p.m. — Melaleuca Field — Free entry — Enjoy a thrilling baseball game with a chance to snag a reversible jersey giveaway.

Mountain West Pulling Nationals Truck and Tractor Pulls

6-9 p.m. — Sandy Downs — Tickets from $68 — Experience thrilling truck and tractor pulls in Idaho Falls at this can't-miss event.

Christmas in July 5K/10K/Half Marathon

7 a.m. – 11:59 p.m. — Snake River Boat Launch — Registration fee applies — Celebrate the holiday spirit in the summer with a festive run along the scenic Snake River.

Ladies Lunch Gathering

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Jakers Bar and Grill — Free entry — Connect with other women over lunch and bring a friend for a delightful time.

Firefighter Storytime

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Idaho Falls Public Library — Free entry — Celebrate reading with local heroes at this fun, community-oriented storytime event.

The Walk-Up Protocol Workshop

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Melaleuca Field — Free entry — Discover the emotional tools to elevate your performance through music and insightful discussions.

Exhibit Opening: Walking the Divide

5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho — Free entry — Explore immersive installations reflecting on ecology and human interaction with landscapes.