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PBS elections podcast driven by students including a Mercer Island teen

Pullman, WALocal News

The PBS podcast "On Our Minds" is engaging young voices during the 2024 election season, with a special focus on their thoughts and experiences. In one poignant episode, Grace Go, a 2024 graduate from Mercer Island High School, interviews her mother about their immigrant journey and the meaning of America. This discussion uncovers the personal sacrifices made for educational advancement, something Grace had not fully appreciated before. The initiative is crucial as approximately 41 million members of Gen Z will be eligible to vote in the upcoming election, highlighting the necessity of youth engagement in political matters. Briget Ganske, a producer at PBS News Student Reporting Labs, notes that many young people feel overlooked in traditional election coverage.

The podcast aims to address this gap by providing a platform for diverse opinions and experiences. This season will also explore topics such as censorship and misinformation, ensuring a well-rounded approach to the issues at hand. Grace believes it's vital for young people to seek out various journalism sources to understand the political landscape better.

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Pullman, WALocal News

Meetings

Local government meetings are scheduled throughout the week in Whitman and Latah counties, including sessions for city councils and planning commissions. Key meetings include the Whitman County Commissioners on Monday and the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency on Thursday. These gatherings provide residents opportunities to engage with local governance.

Pullman, WALocal News

Berney to retire as counseling point man

Mike Berney, Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, will retire in December after over 30 years of service, paving the way for Clinical Director Kathleen Stewardson to assume his role. Under Berney's leadership, the organization expanded significantly, enhancing mental health services across Whitman County. Berney expressed optimism for the future of behavioral health in the community.

Pullman, WALocal News

Fire is not the enemy

Volunteers in north central Idaho conducted a controlled burn near Viola to reduce wildfire risks and enhance ecological health. Led by Heather Heward, the team emphasized the importance of fire as a tool for land management, likening it to medicine for wildlands. Participants included university students and local forestry professionals learning to adapt to fire’s role in the ecosystem.