Good morning, Post Falls.

Today, the Museum of North Idaho is preparing for a potential loss of its $500K NEH grant after an email from the National Humanities Alliance warned that the Department of Government Efficiency might reduce its staff and cancel grants—Britt Thurman said the setback could delay phase two of its planned underground expansion. The museum will open in two weeks at its new McEuen Park location with a grand opening weekend featuring a donor reception and giveaways.

Lake City High School freshman Jordynn Walker, 15, sang the national anthem at Gonzaga University sports events—she performed recently at a Women's NCAA Super Regional March Madness game at Spokane Arena where Oklahoma played UConn—and takes lessons from renowned North Idaho vocalist Jenny Shotwell. She plans to perform with her school choir in upcoming events and continues to follow her singing dreams.

Openings are available for the 2025 Idaho Master Forest Stewards training, a program that offers more than 70 hours of learning and requires 70 hours of volunteer service to help forest owners.

The training includes four one-day core sessions (April 24, May 22, Sept. 11, Oct. 2) held at forested sites across North Idaho and has limited slots.

The Senate passed the higher education budget on Tuesday evening — approving funds for colleges and universities despite a $4 million cut to UI and BSU due to concerns over DEI — as the bill now moves to the House.

On Tuesday, Post Falls City Council approved the Steckman Annexation as a medium-density R2 zone for a 47-unit project (for single-family houses and duplexes) on a 6.7-acre site near North Brookie Drive and North Spokane Street.

The plan also includes new roadway connections (to ease traffic and improve safety) scheduled for future phases.

The Idaho House passed an additional portion of the state Medicaid budget on Wednesday and sent nearly $674.2 million in funding to Gov. Little for his final review.

The bill includes funds from the federal government and the state’s general fund—most of which comes from federal dollars—and will support required administrative programs.

Governor Little vetoed a bill on Saturday that would have banned mandates on medical interventions in schools, businesses and government—both Senate and House lawmakers introduced revised versions and began negotiating language changes.

Senate President Pro Tempore Kelly Anthon said discussions are ongoing while Attorney General Raúl Labrador urged the Legislature to override the veto, though doubts remain that the new bills will become law.

Easter Egg Extravaganza

1-2:10 p.m. — Q'emiln Park — Free entry — Celebrate Easter with exciting egg hunts and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny.

Easter Brunch Cruise

11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Lake Coeur d'Alene Cruises — Enjoy a delicious buffet while cruising on the serene lake waters this Easter.