BYU-Idaho/Web-Content huggingface dataset:
Drivers beware wildlife on the road

Elk crossing the road in front of a car.

Idaho Department of Fish and Game

BYU-Idaho Radio · Drivers beware big game on the road

Idahoans on the road should pay extra attention while driving to avoid wildlife this winter.

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game issued a warning last week that winter is especially dangerous for both drivers and the wildlife that might cross roads, such as deer, moose and elk.

A statement on their website said hitting elk or deer is hazardous to drivers and passengers. It also has the potential to cause thousands of dollars in damage.

Because of this, IDFG advises extra caution to avoid hitting the wildlife, if possible.

And with the bad roads that come with winter weather, that means driving very carefully.

"If you try to slow down too quickly on an icy road, that can actually send you sideways and then lose control and then get off the road, and oftentimes that can cause a much greater damage than it would if you were just going slowly and kind of having quite a bit of distance to slow down," said James Brower, the regional communications manager for the Upper Snake Region of IDFG.

His top advice to drivers is not to tailgate. Brower said you never know when someone will need to slow down for wildlife. Keeping a safe distance reduces the risk of rear-ending someone who slows down.

"Just look for those wildlife on the road, knowing that wintertime is pretty common for them to be down in the valleys in different places that you may not expect them," Brower said.

Of all the roads in Eastern Idaho, Brower said those with the highest risk of wildlife are Highway 33 and I-15 north of Idaho Falls. But anywhere people drive fast is at an increased risk.

"People do hit animals on the highway fairly often. Then more particularly at dawn and dusk when you're driving, you need to be a little bit more aware," Brower said.

Brower said that while wildlife is to be expected in rural areas, drivers sometimes completely let down their guard while driving in more suburban or city areas.

"Just be aware that no matter where you're driving, there's always a possibility of running into wildlife in Idaho," Brower said.

IDFG posted a list of tips to help drivers exercise caution on the winter roads. A few highlights include:

High beams are helpful in spotting wildlife, but don't blind other drivers to potential wildlife by leaving your brights on.

Once you've seen an animal, slow down and watch, there are likely more.

Different animals have varying levels of visibility, with moose being very difficult to spot in the dark. Watch for glowing eyes.

Be aware of posted wildlife crossing signs. They are there for a reason.

Like Brower said, if you see animals on the road, slow down safely. Don't swerve or skid off the road. IDFG says this is how most serious accidents involving wildlife happen.

Sometimes drivers end up hitting an animal, despite exercising this caution. It is not uncommon to kill the animal when you hit it.

If you hit an animal, IDFG says you have 24 hours to self-report your roadkill. You can report animals that you or someone else hit at idfg.idaho.gov.
Extravadance | BYU-Idaho Radio

BYU-Idaho

Every semester the BYU-Idaho Dance Department holds a special performance, called Extravadance, where dancers of many genres get to perform and showcase their skills. This semester Extravadance is being put on by the Collegiate Dancers group, which is completely student run. The choreography, lighting, sound, directing, and everything that goes into the production will be done by students.

"I think it's fun for the student directors who have done Extravadance as dancers to switch roles, so the directing side, to really see and get the whole entire picture of what it takes to put on the show," says Ashley Reed.

Ashley Reed is a dance teacher at BYU-Idaho and is one of the faculty overseeing Extravadance this semester.

Reed says dance is a great way to express yourself without using words.

"I think any dancer loves the opportunity to perform. Being on stage, there's nothing like that, and expressing and communicating in that way, especially if you're really not great with words. You know, using your body to communicate and express how you feel is really the best feeling in the world," Reed says.

Reed says the dance performances range from ballet, ballroom and contemporary, to even tap and hip hop.

Reed encourages students to see Extravadance, which is a high-quality performance for $5.

"It also exposes you to the arts, especially if you haven't been around dance a whole lot in your life. It gives you a little bit of exposure, what we're about, what we offer as a dance department. And maybe it encourages you to take a 100 level dance class. Social Dance is a great introduction to dance, or we also have jazz or ballet, and modern," Reed says.

Reed was a BYU-Idaho student who also was a Collegiate dancer and directed as a student director during her time as a student. Now as a faculty member, she loves seeing everything come together.

"Honestly, just seeing everybody's hard work pay off. It's really hard to feel like in the moment that this is going to be amazing, or this is going to feel amazing, but once they get in costume, once they get on stage, once the lights are on them, and the energy of the crowd is there, there's this shift in energy that happens and everybody is so united and dances just full out," Reed says.

The theme for Extravadance this semester, chosen by the student directors, is "United As We Are."

"Just with how the current climate of things in our world are right now, everything is very divided, and so this is kind of both an invitation and a challenge for everybody to recognize that there is beauty in our differences and we can resist the division and we can really build something that is beautiful together," Reed says.

Extravadance is November 11-15th at 7:30 p.m. in the Eliza R. Snow Building Drama Theatre. Tickets are $5 for students and $8 for the general public.
Faith in Every Note at BYU-Idaho | BYU-Idaho Radio

The BYU-Idaho Music Department is doing more than teaching technique--it is preparing students for lives of musical and personal fulfillment. With more than 300 students pursuing different paths, the department offers four degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Music, Bachelor of Musical Arts, Bachelor of Music Education and a Minor or Concentration in Music.

In this episode of Fulfilling the Mission, we sit down with Department Chair Daniel Kerr and David Djambov, a senior studying Organ Performance, to discuss the roles they play in the Music Department at BYU-Idaho.

Kerr began piano lessons at age six and added the organ at nine, eventually studying organ performance at the University of Southern California. Djambov was drawn to BYU-Idaho after seeing photos and videos of the campus' renowned "Great Pipe Organ," and knew this was where he wanted to study.

Both emphasize that music at BYU-Idaho is more than performance, it is inspired creation.

"That's the beauty of studying here," Djambov said. "We have that focus on the gospel of Jesus Christ and the Savior that can fill you as a person and augment your leadership in other ways, in this case music."

This enthusiasm is fueled by a higher purpose. As Kerr encourages his students: "Let's keep writing it. Let's create new things that enrich faith, build faith and spread the gospel."

Through rigorous study, spiritual inspiration and a focus on gospel-centered creation, the BYU-Idaho Music Department fulfills the mission of BYU-Idaho to uplift lives and prepare disciples of Jesus Christ.

Learn more about the Department of Music.

You can watch or listen to this episode of the **Fulfilling the Mission**podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. The episode is also available below.

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Finding a home in the arts at BYU-Idaho | BYU-Idaho Radio

For students in the College of Performing and Visual Arts, creativity is about connection, growth and discipleship. Dean Brian Memmott knows this firsthand.

Memmott began his journey at Ricks College, where he studied graphic design and earned an associate degree. His love for both design and the Savior grew during those years. After completing his bachelor's in Southern California and working at a design firm in Pasadena, he was invited to apply to work in the Creative Services Department at Ricks College, now BYU-Idaho. He later earned a Master of Fine Arts in graphic design and took a teaching position in the Department of Art. Today, he serves as dean for the College of Performing and Visual Arts.

The college is home to three departments: Music, Art, and Theatre & Dance. Each offers students a place to develop their talents while strengthening their discipleship. Whether it's dance majors preparing to open studios, theatre technicians learning the craft of stage production or art students diving into design and illustration, each student finds a way to turn passion into purpose.

Jessica Turner, from Washington, found her voice through yearbook design in high school.

"It takes a special type of person to teach you how to work with others, to teach you how to problem solve, and our professors do that," she said.

For Abby Stoker of Iowa, creativity is a spiritual process.

"I pray for the Holy Ghost to receive inspiration. God is the best creator that we know. He's the best artist and he will help give that creative direction."

Brynn Porter, from Idaho, echoed that sentiment.

"I was able to come to BYU-Idaho, and it totally turned from an interest to a big passion. I've loved being able to solve problems visually and to include the Lord in my works that we do here at BYU-Idaho," she said.

As Dean Memmott put it, "Students who gravitate to the arts ... find a home and flourish with the talents they've been blessed with. And they find a way for those talents to help connect them to their Savior. It's a beautiful thing to watch."

Learn more about the College of Performing and Visual Arts. Learn more about the Department of Art.

You can watch or listen to this episode of the Fulfilling the Mission podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Fulfilling the Mission Podcast
French organ concert this Thursday | BYU-Idaho Radio

BYU-Idaho

This Thursday night students are invited to experience culture through music. Marsha

Bjornn, a private music instructor at BYU-Idaho will perform French organ music.

"It's all based on French organ music in the Romantic Period," Bjornn said. "In the 19th century the Romantic Period saw blossoming of French organ music, and so I knew a lot of French organ composers and pulled together a program."

Bjornn said she was attracted to the theme because she's often played the music in the past.

There will be a variety of musical pieces for students to enjoy. Bjornn listed a few of the pieces she will be performing.

"There's one that imitates the Big Ben clock in London," Bjornn said. "That's the theme of the song. They might enjoy that one. Theres one that's based on Paradise."

The organ concert is this Thursday night from 7:30-8:30 at the Barrus concert hall in the Eliza R. Snow building. The concert is free to attend.
Jack Esplin | Author | BYU-Idaho Radio

****Background & Experience:****

Hi, I'm Jack! I'm an aspiring Sports Broadcaster and I've done play-by-play and color for high school basketball games as part of the TitleOne Tip-Off Classic in Idaho Falls, as well as football games for BYU-Idaho intramurals.

I've worked as a reporter and morning show host for BYU-Idaho Radio since January of 2025, and love getting out and talking to so many cool people. I was also an anchor for my high school news team.

I have been making videos for my personal YouTube channel since 2017, and love making videos talking about sports, particularly NBA, NFL, college basketball and college football on my channel.

I hope to one day be a sports reporter/broadcaster and work for ESPN, specifically on College Gameday, ESPN's weekly college football and basketball program.

****About Me:****

I'm a Communications Major with a News & Journalism Emphasis.

I'm from Pocatello, Idaho, and I am the oldest of 4 children. I served my mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Bolivia and Colombia.

I love traveling around the world with my family. Some of my favorite places I've been to include, Thailand, Fiji, Ecuador, Honduras and Mexico, just to name a few!

I love sports, especially football and basketball. I am a huge Philadelphia Eagles and Duke Blue Devils basketball fan.

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Jill Clary | BYU-Idaho Radio

When I graduated high school and started on my college journey, the news was probably one of the last industries I thought I would be working in. I had coached gymnastics since I had barely turned 16-years-old and I planned on studying exercise physiology. Two years into school, something started to not feel right. I was feeling lost and had no idea what to change my major to. After taking one communication class for GED credit, I fell in love! Starting out in my communication journey, I was leaning towards digital marketing for a career. However, as I moved from working as a social media manager, to a project manager, I eventually found myself working here at BYU-Idaho Radio. This is where I discovered my passion for the news. Through the news, and sharing it, I feel connected to the world around me, whether that's right here in Rexburg, or somewhere across the world with people I may never meet. My "why" for working in the news is educating myself and others, and creating connections.

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## Latest from Jill Clary

Julius Ceasar

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Extravadance

By 
Jill Clary

October 23, 2025 02:38 PM

Every semester the BYU-Idaho Dance Department holds a special performance, called Extravadance, where dancers of many genres get to perform and showcase their skills. This semester Extravadance is being put on by the Collegiate Dancers group, which is completely student run. The choreography, lighting, sound, directing, and everything that goes into the production will be done by students.

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Choirfest

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French organ concert this Thursday

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Julius Ceasar | BYU-Idaho Radio

BYU-Idaho is putting on "Julius Caesar" about the rise and fall of Julius Caesar, including how the government and the world were affected by his death.

Luke Arbon is a cast member in the production, playing four different roles, including Flavius, a poet, a citizen and a soldier.

"This Theatre Department here is just so amazing with giving students opportunities to grow in so many different aspects," Arbon said. "I think the biggest part that I've loved is just the community there. I've gained some of the best friendships that I've gotten here and just everything about it, the professionalism from both the students and the professors. It's just such an amazing opportunity that they've given me here."

Arbon encourages all students to see "Julius Caesar."

"It's very well done and there are so many different people involved in it. So, chances are you're friends with at least one person that's involved with it. And it has a great message to it. And so, there are many different reasons to come to it. It's a really good time," Arbon said.

Arbon says not all the cast in the Julius Caesar production are theatre majors. Many of them are students from diverse majors.

"Something that BYUI gives a lot of their students is just opportunities," Arbon said. "And so, it doesn't really matter if you are a major or minor in it. There are chances for everybody."

Students of any major are encouraged to audition for school productions. You can learn more about auditions and performances at the BYUI Theatre Department Instagram and Facebook pages.

The Julius Ceasar production has show times Dec. 3-5 and 9-12 at 7:30 p.m., and matinee performances on Dec. 6 and 13 at 2 p.m. in the Eliza R. Snow Building Black Box Theatre in room 107. Tickets are $8 and are available at tickets.byui.edu.
Kiln Kottage,  a hidden gem in Rexburg

The Kiln Kottage Logo

Kiln Kottage and Nikki Robertson

BYU-Idaho Radio · Kiln Kottage: A hidden gem in Rexburg.

Kiln Kottage is a small business based out of the owner's home. The owner says it's more than pottery. Nikki Robertson says her daughters did an activity involving making jewelry with pottery, which inspired her to make her company to give people a fun experience.

**"**It's enjoyable to see people just sit down and enjoy something," Robertson said. "That's my whole goal is, I want people to be able to enjoy something and have an escape from everything else that we have going on right now."

Robertson says she pours liquid clay or slip into molds and cleans and fires them. This product she calls bisque, is then offered to people to either paint with acrylic paint or glaze with custom designs based on customers' preferences.

**"**We have thousands and thousands of molds to choose from," Robertson said. "And if you do come out, there's things on the shelves ready to go that you can just choose and paint or glaze, or you can look through my catalogs of molds that I have available and order something. And that usually takes about one and a half to two weeks to have it ready for you."

Kiln Kottage is located at 1870 Salem Pines Lane in Rexburg, just north of the north Rexburg U.S. Highway 20 exit. It's open from noon to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, 2 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, 5 to 9 p.m. on Thursdays. They can also schedule larger groups outside of those hours. For more information, call 208-390-9538 or visit The Kiln Kottage Facebook or Instagram pages.
Kimber Pearce | Author | BYU-Idaho Radio

Hi! I am studying Communication with an emphasis in News & Journalism at BYU-Idaho. I have lived in all three corners of Idaho, and it is absolutely my home, even though the weather in Eastern Idaho is not my favorite! 
As the oldest of 5 children, I am used to trail-blazing and love to try new things and learn everything I can. I am especially interested in history and literature. In my free time, you can probably catch me either reading, dancing, or cooking the best food ever. 
I've worked in the journalism field for years, but the world of radio is newer to me and I love the challenge! I would love to someday be a radio show host.
4 victims dead after shooting, fire at LDS church  in Michigan | Radio

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

At least four people are dead following a shooting and fire at a church building of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, Grand Blanc Police Chief William Reyne said in a news conference.

In an initial news conference, Chief Reyne said 10 shooting victims were taken to the hospital. Two people later died. In a follow-up news conference, he said they found two victims from the fire, bringing the total victims killed to four. There could be other victims as crews continue to search the debris left from the fire.

He said the 40-year-old suspect, Thomas Jacob Sanford, from Burton, Michigan, crashed his car into the church building around 10:25 a.m. Sunday. Chief Reyne said the suspect got out of his car and started shooting. Two officers got to the church within 30 seconds of the 911 call and returned fire, killing the suspect. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Police Agent James Dier believes the suspect started the fire and used accelerant--probably gasoline--to start the fire.

Hundreds of people were in the church building at the time of the shooting. The Deseret News reports seven people were in stable condition and one in critical condition at the hospital.

The FBI is now leading the investigation and is working to figure out what the motive of the shooting was. In the news conference Sunday night, FBI Special Agent in charge of the Detroit Field Office Reuben Coleman said they are investigating this as a targeted attack.

The Church of Jesus Christ released the following message:

"A tragic act of violence occurred today at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. During Sunday worship services a gunman opened fire, and early reports indicate that multiple individuals were injured. We ask for cooperation with local authorities as details become available.

"The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected. We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families.

"We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved."