Your Daily Briefing – 01/21/2025

NEWS HEADLINES AND UPDATES


President Trump Halts Lava Ridge Wind Project in Idaho
Yesterday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order halting the Lava Ridge Wind Project in Idaho. The 231-turbine project, designed to power 500,000 homes, faced strong opposition from Idaho residents and advocates for historic sites.


Trump Declares National Emergency at Southern Border
President Donald Trump announced plans for mass deportations while declaring a national emergency at the southern border. In Twin Falls, the nonprofit La Posada is assisting immigrants by providing legal aid, shelter, and support.


Idaho Education Groups Oppose “School Choice” Initiatives
Idaho’s education organizations are urging lawmakers to prioritize public schools over private school funding. At a news conference yesterday, speakers criticized Gov. Brad Little’s proposed $50 million “school choice” initiatives, citing high taxpayer costs and potential fraud. Critics emphasized the need to address underfunding in Idaho’s public schools as a greater priority.


Twin Falls School District Launches Communication App
The Twin Falls School District has launched a free app for iPhone and Android devices to improve communication. The app consolidates school calendars, menus, and news updates, helping parents and the community stay informed about students’ education.


Boise Police Investigate Shooting, Arrest Three Suspects
Around 1 a.m. yesterday, Boise Police responded to a shooting on North Cole Road where a man and a woman were injured. Evidence led officers to a home in Meridian, resulting in the arrest of three suspects, including 19-year-old Daniel Alaniz Pineda. Police report the incident began as an argument that escalated into a robbery and shooting. Roads closed during the investigation have since reopened.


Survey Shows Optimism About Idaho Economy, Focus on Education
According to Boise State’s annual Public Policy Survey, nearly half of Idahoans believe the state is on the right track. Optimism about the economy has risen to 44%, while education remains the top priority for 79% of respondents. Housing and jobs also rank high on the list of concerns. However, 53% oppose using tax funds for private or religious education, and most support abortion access through at least the first trimester.


EPA Fines Darigold $318,000 for Clean Water Act Violations
The EPA has fined Darigold’s Caldwell facility $318,000 for violating the Clean Water Act by discharging pollutants, including E. coli, into the Boise River. The violations stemmed from milk processing operations and stormwater contamination. Darigold agreed to the fine without admitting to the allegations.


SPORTS

Valley Vikings Dominate Carey Panthers in Girls’ Basketball
The Valley Vikings girls’ basketball team overwhelmed the Carey Panthers in a clash of top teams. Leading 35-6 at halftime, the Vikings secured a commanding 66-19 victory, marking their 11th win of the season.

Exciting Boys’ Basketball Wins

  • Canyon Ridge defeated Wood River 45-28.
  • Shoshone edged Richfield 55-54 with a dramatic buzzer-beater by Kevin Juarez after two missed free throws by Richfield.
  • Wendell claimed a 57-49 victory over Kimberly.

Idaho Vandals Fall Short Against Montana
The Idaho Vandals men’s basketball team gave the Montana Grizzlies a tough game but ultimately fell 72-67. Kyson Rose led a late 11-0 run with eight second-half points, but Montana’s hot shooting sealed the win. Tyler Mrus paced Idaho with 12 points, while Isaiah Brickner and Tyler Linhardt added 10 each. The Vandals host Northern Colorado Thursday and Northern Arizona Saturday at ICCU Arena.

Vandals Women Secure Fifth Straight Win
The Idaho Vandals women’s basketball team earned their fifth consecutive victory by defeating Montana 70-57 on Monday at ICCU Arena. Olivia Nelson led with 15 points, while Hope Hassmann added 13 points and nine assists. The Vandals, now 13-4 overall and 5-1 in Big Sky play, face Northern Colorado on Thursday at 6 p.m.

Idaho State Bengals Dominate Montana
The Idaho State men’s basketball team cruised to an 86-61 victory over Montana, erasing a halftime deficit with a 22-2 second-half run. Isaiah Griffin scored a career-high 23 points, while Jake O’Neil recorded 19 points and 12 rebounds. The Bengals, now 8-8 overall and 3-2 in Big Sky play, will travel to Sacramento State and Portland State this week.


WEATHER

Today’s Forecast

  • Mostly sunny with a high near 34°F. East wind 5-7 mph, becoming west in the afternoon.
  • Tonight: Mostly clear with a low of 17°F. West-southwest wind 6-9 mph.

Extended Forecast

  • Wednesday: Sunny, high near 33°F. Low around 15°F.
  • Thursday: Sunny, high near 35°F. Partly cloudy at night, low of 21°F.
  • Friday: Partly sunny, high near 37°F. Snow chances increase overnight (30%), low around 19°F.
  • Saturday: Partly sunny with a high near 30°F. 30% chance of snow in the morning. Low near 11°F.
  • Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 29°F. Clear at night, low near 10°F.
  • Monday: Sunny, high near 31°F.

Stay tuned for updates on snow chances heading into the weekend.