Good morning, Lewiston.

Last week a fire destroyed a home on 7th Avenue North — strong winds spread the flames fast — and firefighters used deck guns and an excavator to bring down the building without harming anyone while the cause remains under investigation.

A North Idaho man, Aspen August Schaffer of Post Falls, was sentenced to nearly three years in federal prison for shining a bright green laser at a law enforcement helicopter last August, which impaired the crew’s vision and forced the helicopter to lose altitude until the pilot regained control + officials warned the act could have led to a serious accident.

The Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office is asking the public for help to find 16-year-old Mason M.

Earls—an autistic teen last seen on May 4 at 8:30 p.m. at his home on Bitterroot Lane in Juliaetta—who may have run away.

More than 2,200 Vandals will receive at least 2,340 degrees at the University of Idaho Spring Commencement Ceremonies starting Saturday, May 10 in Moscow—Winter 2024 graduates will join the Spring 2025 class.

The events will continue through Monday, May 19 at locations in Moscow, Boise, and Idaho Falls with keynote speeches and special honors scheduled while ceremonies are livestreamed.

Lewiston voters will decide on a $25 million bond on May 20 to fund improvements to underground water, stormwater, and wastewater systems.

In-person early voting is available at the Auditor Recorder’s Office (Nez Perce County Courthouse, 1230 Main Street) through May 16 with mail ballot requests due by 5:00 p.m. on May 9.

Starting May 10, residents outside city limits must get a burn permit for yard waste or crop residue burning to help fire managers track and respond to fire risks—recreational campfires remain exempt and permits are free and valid for 10 days.