June 30, 2025

SCOOP PODCAST TO KICK OFF YOUR WEEK:
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Coeur d’Alene, Idaho: What We Know
This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance.
Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris on Sunday afternoon’s attack in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. A gunman opened fire on firefighters responding to a brush fire, killing two and injuring another. About 300 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies responded; some officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect and later found him dead. Preliminary evidence points to only one shooter, and law enforcement believes there is no further threat to the community. The shooter’s identity and motive remain TBD.
Learn More:
- 2 killed in Idaho after firefighters ambushed by gunfire, suspected gunman found dead: Sheriff (ABC News)
- PRESS CONFERENCE: Kootenai Co. Sheriff gives update on active shooter situation in Coeur d’Alene (Idaho News 6)
- LIVE UPDATES: 2 firefighters dead after apparent ambush on first responders in Idaho (CNN)
Senators Begin “Vote-A-Rama” for Republican-Led Tax and Budget Reconciliation Bill
This bill delivers on the mandate the American people gave Republicans last year: a stronger, safer, and more prosperous America.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) on the Republican-led tax and budget reconciliation package, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” The Senate launched a “vote-a-rama” Monday on amendments to the package. Lawmakers already removed one controversial provision: the proposed sale of about 2 million acres of public land. Senator Mike Lee (RโUT) announced the cut over the weekend. The bill has drawn criticism from within the Republican party, especially over proposed Medicaid cuts. Senator Thom Tillis (RโNC), who recently announced he wonโt seek reelection, warned: “It is inescapable that this bill in its current form will betray the very promise that Donald J. Trump made. … Iโm telling the president that you have been misinformed. You supporting the Senate mark will hurt people who are eligible and qualified for Medicaid.” Should the Senate pass its version, the bill must return to the House for a final vote before heading to President Donald Trump’s desk.
Learn More:
- Trump admin live updates: Senate begins ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ vote-a-rama (ABC News)
- Senate GOP looks to pass marathon final test on Trumpโs โbig, beautiful billโ (The Hill)
Shooting at Historic Stonewall Inn, Investigation Ongoing
Saddened to learn about the shooting by the Stonewall Inn tonight as Pride celebrations were winding down.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, posting on X Sunday night after two people were shot outside the Stonewall Inn in the hours following the city’s annual Pride parade. One person remains in critical condition; the other is stable. The investigation is ongoing, with police continuing to search for the shooter. The Stonewall Inn stands at the center of LGBTQ+ history, where a six-day clash between police and protestors in June 1969 sparked the modern gay rights movement.
Learn More:
- 2 shot outside historic Stonewall Inn following NYC Pride March, terrifying revelers: โComplete pandemoniumโ (NY Post)
- From the archive: The Stonewall Inn: 54 years later (SmartHER News)
RECALL: Over 31,000 Bicycle Helmets Pose “Risk of Head Injury”
The helmets can fail to protect the user in the event of a crash, posing a risk of head injury.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalling over 31,000 Bell bike helmets sold between September 2024 and May 2025 at nationwide retailers, including Walmart, Target, Amazon and Academy Sports + Outdoors. The agency advises consumers to check their model number, found on the sticker inside the helmet, and contact Bell Sports for a full refund.
Learn More:
Chimney Rock State Park Reopens Exactly 9 Months after Hurricane Helene
Let this place remind you: even after the storm, hope rises.
North Carolina Department of Natural & Cultural Resources announcing the reopening of Chimney Rock State Park exactly nine months after Hurricane Helene caused devastating damage to the area. During the reopening ceremony, Governor Josh Stein signed the state’s Disaster Recovery Act into law, delivering continued financial assistance and easing regulatory restrictions for storm-impacted communities.
Learn More:
by Stephanie Wagner, based in Florida




