Through the United Way of Southeastern Idaho's annual campaign, employees donated $25,351.60. Workers were able to target their gift to an area of focus like “Education,” “Financial Stability,” “Health,” or “Cradle to Career Partnership.” They were also given the option to have the United Way pass along the donation to a specific 501 (c) 3 nonprofit or allow the United Way to send it on to where the group identifies the greatest need.

North Main Street from Highway 30 to Kraft Road is closed while law enforcement officers investigate a crime scene. The closure may extend into the morning commute and residents are asked to avoid the area.

Pocatello and Chubbuck’s resident Clark Griswolds are going to be showcased December 14 and 15. At 7 p.m. on both days, Pocatello Regional Transit will host its 30th Annual Tour of Lights. The drive highlights the best-of-the-best of the two cities’ holiday decorations. “Year after year, residents continue to put up displays that make the tour special,” said Dave Hunt, Pocatello Regional Transit Director. “What started as a little something to spread some Christmas cheer has blossomed into a tradition.” The tour takes off from Pocatello City Hall promptly at 7:30 p.m. and returns around 9 p.m. Tickets are $5 for adults, $3.50 for children ages 8 and younger, and free for toddlers who are able to sit on a parent or guardian’s lap. Tickets can be purchased at PRT’s Transit Center, 5815 South 5th Avenue, starting December 1 and must be purchased at least one day prior to the desired day. Potential riders are encouraged to get their tickets early as the event has been known to sell out. “We’ve seen carolers stationed outside of homes, residents handing out candy, and others have even donned Santa suits to greet riders,” Hunt said. “Our drivers get into the spirit as well, sometimes leading their bus in the singing of a few songs.” The tour will also accommodate groups and special arrangements can be made by contacting Pocatello Regional Transit at 208-234-ABUS (2287) or via email at prt@pocatello.us. For more information on all the services offered by Pocatello Regional Transit, you can visit pocatellotransit.com. Pocatello Regional Transit buses are accessible to persons with disabilities. Program access accommodations may be provided with three (3) days’ advance notice by contacting Dave Hunt at dhunt@pocatello.us; 208.234.6248 or 5815 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, ID.

It was a busy day for Mayor for a Day Amber Olin- meetings with department heads this morning, an interview with Rachel Cox-Rosen KPVI News, and a meeting with the Bannock Transportation Planning Organization.

The sounds of the holidays will be ringing throughout the Marshall Public Library Wednesday, December 6. At 4:30 p.m., Pocatello High School’s Gate City Singers will be performing carols on the main floor of the library. Under the direction of John Grayson, they will be performing Christmas staples like “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “Baby It's Cold Outside,” and “Silent Night.” One of the library’s own will also be joining in on the tunes. Becca Hyde, the Marshall Public Library’s Early Childhood Librarian, will accompany the singers on piano. For more information on the programs and services available at the Marshall Public Library, visit marshallpl.org.

There is a special American flag flying over City Hall today. The flag is being flown at the request of Captain Ryan C. Tillotson, who is retiring from the United States Navy after more than 25 years. Capt. Tillotson was born in Pocatello and is currently serving as the Maritime Operations Center Director for United States Naval Forces Southern Command in Mayport, Florida. Over the course of his career, he’s served on ships around the globe, commanded the destroyer USS The Sullivans, and served as Commodore for Destroyer Squadron FOURTEEN. He has been awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation and Achievement medals, as well as various unit and campaign awards. Thank you for your service Capt. Tillotson!

Say cheese! Juan Figueroa, PC Technician for the City of Pocatello, is going to be featured in an upcoming issue of StateTech magazine. Here is a behind-the-scenes shot from the photo shoot that will accompany the article.