A former leading scientist at the National Institutes of Health has sued the Trump administration, saying she was illegally fired for warning that research cuts were endangering patients and public health
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Light the World Giving Machines Arrive in Idaho Falls">Light the World Giving Machines Arrive in Idaho Falls
IDAHO FALLS – A unique form of charitable giving has arrived in Idaho Falls for the holiday season. Three “Giving Machines,” sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, were unveiled Monday at the Grand Teton Mall. Functioning like reverse vending machines, the devices allow individuals to purchase items such as meals, clothing, or livestock for people in need, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to charitable organizations. The initiative is part of the church’s annual “Light the World” campaign, which encourages acts of kindness during Christmas.
The machines support six local and two international charities. The eastern Idaho beneficiaries include the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center, Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership, Idaho Falls Rescue Mission, The Village, Idaho Falls Community Food Basket, and Friends in Service Here. Donations can also be directed to the global charities Right to Play and Care. This marks the first year the traveling machines have been available in the region, having already made stops in Pocatello and Rexburg before arriving in Idaho Falls.
The launch event at the mall featured several speakers and a performance by musician Jay Osmond, a member of the famous Osmond family who recently moved to the area and joined the Sandhill Media radio group. Osmond spoke about the importance of charitable giving to capture the true spirit of Christmas and encouraged the community to participate. Glenn Rawson, host of “The Sounds of Sunday” radio show on 100.7 MyFM, also urged attendees to make a donation, emphasizing the profound impact their contributions could have on someone’s life.
Community and business support for the initiative is already underway. Fifth-grade students from Rimrock Elementary were recognized at the event for raising $3,000 for the Giving Machines. Following the launch, Logan Hall, CEO of Brad Hall Companies, announced that his company had made a significant donation and challenged other local businesses, including Idaho National Laboratory, Kiewit, and Idaho Steel, to join the effort and inspire their employees to contribute.
According to Alan Avondet, one of the event’s city leads, the response in other eastern Idaho cities was overwhelmingly positive. The Giving Machines will remain at the Grand Teton Mall for the public to use through January 1. After the donation period ends, the church will audit the funds and distribute them to the participating charities in the spring.
12.15.25 – Tragedy in Australia, Giving Machines Coming, Far-Left Terrorism Foiled, and Christmas Spirit">12.15.25 – Tragedy in Australia, Giving Machines Coming, Far-Left Terrorism Foiled, and Christmas Spirit
In today’s episode, hosts Neal Larson and Julie Mason delve into a series of tragic and disturbing events that occurred over the weekend, including a mass shooting in Australia and a domestic terror plot thwarted in Los Angeles. They navigate the complexities surrounding the political and social implications of these incidents, highlighting tensions related to anti-Semitism and political extremism. The hosts also examine the contentious reactions and rhetoric following these events, particularly focusing on public figures’ divisive comments, including a controversial social media post from Donald Trump about the recent murders in Hollywood.
Additionally, the episode takes a reflective turn as Neal and Julie discuss the significance of symbols during the Christmas season and the importance of genuine expressions of faith and goodwill. They also highlight local initiatives such as the “giving machine” in Idaho Falls, encouraging listeners to engage in charitable acts during the holiday season.
**Highlights:**
– Discussion on the tragic shooting in Australia and its anti-Semitic angles.
– Analysis of the thwarted domestic terror plot in Los Angeles.
– Critique of divisive political rhetoric, with a focus on Donald Trump’s recent comments.
– Reflection on the meaning of Christmas and the importance of authentic celebrations.
– Information about the giving machine in Idaho Falls to encourage community charity.
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Outgoing Pocatello Mayor Blad to deliver State of the City address on December 18">Outgoing Pocatello Mayor Blad to deliver State of the City address on December 18
The following is a news release from the City of Pocatello:
POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — The City of Pocatello will reflect on Fiscal Year 2025 during the annual State of the City address at the City Council meeting December 18.
Mayor Brian Blad will introduce the State of the City address, which is scheduled as the final agenda item of the evening. The presentation will highlight accomplishments and progress made by City departments throughout the past fiscal year. Mayor Blad will conclude the address with remarks focused on priorities and expectations for the year ahead.
The City Council meeting December 18 is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 911 North 7th Avenue.
Following the presentation, the State of the City will be made available on the City of Pocatello’s website at pocatello.gov.