Good morning, Lewiston.

Innovia Foundation awarded $1,250,414 in grant funding to 113 local organizations yesterday via its 2025 Community Grants Program that supports youth development, education, health and wellness, arts and economic opportunity.

The grants supported projects such as food assistance for children and afterschool programs in counties (Asotin, Columbia, Garfield, Clearwater, Idaho, Lewis, Nez Perce) and will boost regional initiatives (including youth engagement programs).

An 80-year-old man, Dennis Diaz, was hit and killed by a northbound truck near Taco Bell in Lewiston on Tuesday night when he tried to cross 21st Street outside the crosswalk, and police closed the street for three hours during the investigation—an officer nearby attempted aid before medics arrived.

The Nez Perce Tribe, with deep cultural ties to wolves, stepped in when the Idaho Legislature rejected state-led wolf reintroduction plans, and its leaders became partners with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service—drawing on traditional teachings—to restore the species in Idaho.

Their actions have turned a rejected plan into a legacy of conservation that continues to guide efforts today.

A key stretch of the Wild and Scenic Selway River received permanent protection after 152 acres of the Selway River Ranch were transferred to the Nez Perce–Clearwater National Forests on June 10.

The U.S. Forest Service now manages the land to expand public access and preserve wildlife habitat in north-central Idaho.

Nez Perce County Sheriff Bryce Scrimsher received the POST Executive Certificate on June 11, marking the highest certification available to Idaho peace officers.

He has served in law enforcement since 1999 and is currently in his second term as sheriff.

The USDA approved Idaho’s request to ban soda and candy from SNAP purchases on June 10th after Governor Little signed House Bill 109.

The new policy will start in January 2026—retailer meetings will occur in the next 30 days to start customer education.

The Idaho Transportation Department invites community members to join a public meeting on Tuesday, June 24, to review and share ideas on two transportation studies for U.S. Highway 95 and State Highway 8 in Latah County—aimed at guiding future improvements in safety, mobility and economic opportunity. The in-person meeting is held at Best Western University Inn in Moscow from 4 to 7 p.m.—with online input available from June 17 through July 8.