Good morning, Lewiston.

At approximately 5:30 a.m. Friday, Lewiston Fire Department responded to an apartment fire on Preston Avenue caused by unattended cooking — residents helped contain the blaze by closing doors as 14 firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and assessed about $5,000 in damage.

The Idaho Department of Education is asking for public comment on a draft plan to reduce federal reporting requirements and update the state testing system—this plan offers local districts more flexibility and seeks federal waivers for some tests.

Public input is invited through the end of the year to help shape the final proposal.

Idaho health officials said full SNAP funding was received Friday after a long federal shutdown paused November benefits, and more than 130,000 recipients will get their full benefits within 48 hours.

The state is now working to put new work requirements into practice that were delayed by the shutdown.

Senator Mike Crapo recognized 24 Idahoans with the 2024 Spirit of Freedom Award, including Lewiston residents Bill Harnish—a Navy veteran active in the American Legion—and Betsy Gaines, a community advocate who organized care packages for veterans.

The awards were announced before Veterans Day and honor their dedication to service for Idaho’s veteran community.

A new study by Twisted Nail shows that Idaho is spending the 9th least on public infrastructure, with aging assets and climate risks affecting local jobs and supply chains—trends that could impact growth.

Russ Howell, a Florida man who suffered a heart attack on April 12 at the Holiday Inn in LC Valley, was saved by off-duty firefighter Max Bausch who started CPR as he collapsed moments before his river cruise.

After receiving treatment and a stent during a short hospital stay, Howell returned on November 7 to finish his trip and reunite with Bausch — a true thank you for quick lifesaving action.

LC State Women’s Cross Country signed Green River College transfer Hannah Berdan, who ran a personal best of 24:45.5 at the Linfield Geroge Oja Invitational, to join the Warriors next fall.

She earned All-American honors and a regional championship in 2024 and helped her team place fourth at a NWAC meet — her experience is expected to bring balance to a squad with many young runners.