Your trusted source for local Pullman, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Smoke from a wildfire in Washington’s Olympic National Park drifted into the Palouse region, affecting air quality. The fire has consumed over 7,000 acres, prompting evacuations and mutual aid requests in nearby Whitman County. Cooler temperatures and rain are expected this weekend, which may help control the fire.
Two men, Walker Day and Cherokee Glover, pleaded not guilty to separate rape charges in Latah County District Court. Day faces allegations of raping a woman and recording the act, while Glover is accused of raping a juvenile. Both men could face life sentences if convicted.
Evacuations were ordered for areas near Viola, Idaho, due to a wildfire estimated at 5 acres. The Latah County Sheriff's Office lifted the orders about 30 minutes later. Residents can find updates on the Sheriff's Office Facebook page.
A 41-year-old man from Bovill, Dane Clark, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault after pointing a shotgun at a family member during a domestic dispute. He remains in jail on a $50,000 bond, with sentencing scheduled for October 14, where a four-year sentence is recommended along with a rider program for mental health treatment.
A lemonade stand and baked goods sale will take place Wednesday in Pullman, benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Shay Connell and her friends aim to raise $20,000, building on their success of over $100,000 since 2018. The event runs from 2-6 p.m. at 720 SW. Finch Way.
Washington State University plans a $7.6 million expansion of its Nuclear Science Center, adding a 5,000-square-foot facility with three hot cells and a chemistry wet lab. The project, funded by a congressional request, aims to enhance research capabilities and provide training for the nation's nuclear workforce. Construction will take one year, with hot cells operational in up to five years.
Firefighters halted the forward progress of the 80-acre Lamb Fire near Troy, Idaho, which is now 50% contained. The Latah County Sheriff’s Office lifted evacuation orders, allowing residents to return, although smoke may persist in the area. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
More than 100 children participated in a traffic safety course at National Night Out in Clarkston, learning essential road rules for biking and walking. Funded by a $25,000 grant, the course aims to reduce accidents among young pedestrians and cyclists in the region. Participants, including Kamara Smith and Kyra Hassan, gained practical skills such as using hand signals and wearing helmets.
Todd Achilles, a former Idaho state legislator, plans to challenge incumbent Republican U.S. Senator James Risch in the upcoming election. During a listening tour in North Idaho, Achilles emphasized concerns over healthcare, housing affordability, and the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs. He aims to attract unaffiliated voters by focusing on populist policies.
The Prairie Community Library in Cottonwood celebrates its 40th anniversary, relying solely on volunteers instead of tax funding. During a recent "Christmas in July" event, children participated in activities and received books, highlighting the community's dedication to literacy. The library, housing about 18,000 donated books, serves as a vital educational resource for the town's 900 residents.