Good morning, Twin Falls.

Chobani is set to distribute $100,000 in grant funds to 16 local pantries (including a $10,000 grant to Mustard Seed Ministries) to help address food insecurity as living costs rise.

Funding will be distributed within the month.

More than 100 gardeners attended the third annual Twin Falls seed swap in Magic Valley, sharing seeds and stories while celebrating local gardening efforts.

The event highlighted community cooperation and the ongoing passion for sustainable growth.

Fuel prices statewide rose to $2.85 this week, while Twin Falls gas dropped one cent to $2.92, keeping it the state's highest rate.

AAA Idaho credits winter refinery slowdowns and rising crude oil costs for the jump — factors affecting many western states.

College and university officials reported Friday that further state budget cuts are forcing immediate staff reductions and furloughs, which will lead to larger classes and fewer program options at local campuses; proposals follow a 3% spending reduction ordered last summer.

The Idaho Department of Education received a memo on Wednesday, Jan.

28 asking for a 1% to 2% budget cut for both the current and next school year. Superintendent Debbie Critchfield said the adjustments came amid rising costs and unforeseen challenges after earlier budget revisions.

The Old Farmer's Almanac forecast for spring 2026 shows wetter conditions with temperatures around normal for Idaho in April and May.

Local gardeners in Twin Falls can use the outlook to plan their planting season.

Crews began upgrading the Wendell, Martin, and Filer intersection on Feb.

2 to install a roundabout. Filer Avenue is closed for two weeks (from Grandview Drive to Wendell Street), and the work will continue until Mar. 20 to improve traffic flow.

Ninth Annual Twin Falls Film Festival

11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. — The Orpheum Theatre — Various free and ticketed events — Celebrate creativity with global filmmakers and local flavors at this vibrant film festival.

Magic Valley Symphony: Classical Favorites

7:30-9:30 p.m. — CSI Fine Arts Building — $12/Adults, $10/Seniors, $6/Students — Experience a night of classical masterpieces and a unique commission by composer Hiroshi Fukuoka.