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Tragic Accident in Spokane Valley: Woman Dies After Being Hit by Car; Driver Uncharged

Former Idaho City Official Sentenced for Stealing $196K: A former city clerk and treasurer, Danielle Painter, has been sentenced to fifteen months in federal prison for embezzling nearly two hundred thousand dollars from the City of New Plymouth over several years. Painter, who worked for the city for over a decade, misused city credit cards for personal expenses and falsely labeled them as professional services. She has been ordered to pay back the full amount in restitution and will serve three years of supervised release after her prison term.

Floridas Governor Ron DeSantis and House Republicans are preparing for a potential mid-decade redistricting battle, aiming to strengthen the Republican majority in upcoming elections. The Florida House of Representatives may craft a new map during the regular session in January, while the Senate and Governors office are not currently working on a new map. This move could put the House at odds with the Senate and the Governors office. The House committee is also examining questions from a recent Florida Supreme Court ruling and a forthcoming U.S. Supreme Court case concerning the Voting Rights Act. Opponents argue that the states plan is politically motivated, aiming to improve chances of holding power in Congress.

St. Susanna Parish in Dedham, Massachusetts, stirs controversy with a Nativity scene sign reading ICE was here, urging callers to contact LUCE if they spot ICE agents. The display, inspired by Reverend Stephen Josoma, sparks ICE Director Todd Lyons criticism as sad political rhetoric. Lyons clarifies ICEs focus on arresting felons, not separating families, and emphasizes their humanity. The parish, known for political activism, defends its stance, citing Jesuss teachings to welcome the stranger and feed the poor.

Senator Bill Cassidy, a medical professional and Republican leader in healthcare, criticizes the Health and Human Services Department under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Junior for alleged bias against science. The department is reviewing the childhood vaccine schedule, including the hepatitis B vaccine given at birth. Cassidy defends the vaccines effectiveness and safety, citing a significant drop in hepatitis B transmissions since its recommendation in 1991. Some Republican senators, like Rand Paul, disagree, arguing theres no medical reason for newborns to receive or be mandated the vaccine. The CDC faces tension as Secretary Kennedy replaced the vaccine advisory committee with new members, some of whom are skeptical of vaccines. A recent study from the University of Minnesota supports the birth dose, finding it has cut hepatitis B infections by over ninety-nine percent since 1991.

Idaho sheriffs, led by Samuel Hulse of Bonneville County, warn of severe consequences due to proposed cuts to behavioral health funding. These cuts, set to begin December 1, 2025, will impact Assertive Community Treatment Teams, Partial Hospitalization Programs, and Homes with Adult Residential Treatment, among others. As upstream services are reduced, more Idahoans will face crisis, leading to increased call volumes for law enforcement, emergency services, and incarcerations. The removal of these programs will also result in more court cases and higher costs for the state and its residents.

Kentucky basketball, boasting a $22 million roster, is grappling with unexpected hurdles this season. Despite a star-studded lineup, including an NBA lottery pick, SEC Preseason Player of the Year, and key transfers, the team is struggling with injuries and inconsistent play. Otega Oweh, the SEC Preseason Player of the Year, is underperforming, scoring below his average from last year and failing to reach double digits in any game. Denzel Aberdeen, another key addition, has shown promise but has also struggled in recent games. The teams ball movement has been an issue, and if their best point guard isnt available, Oweh and Aberdeen will need to step up against Gonzaga.

Broad River Retail, a leading furniture retailer, is expanding its presence in the Inland Northwest with a new Ashley Store in Moscow, Idaho, and a massive location in Spokane. The Moscow store, set to open next year, will offer a wide range of furniture and decor, while the Spokane store, the largest Ashley Store operated by Broad River Retail, is expected to open this month. The companys decision to expand is driven by Idahos business-friendly environment and population growth, with a distribution center in Airway Heights supporting both locations.

The West Valley girls soccer team, coached by C.C. Collins, secured their first-ever State Two-A championship after an undefeated season with a single second-half goal. The team, known for their top-notch defense, had only lost three games in four seasons. The pressure was immense, but the team decided to focus on enjoying the game. The winning goal was scored by Jenna Howe, and the team celebrated with tears of joy before refocusing on defending their lead.