Good morning, Nampa.

After six months of construction, the Meridian Food Bank officially opened its expanded backpack room in West Ada to pack over 800 meal backpacks weekly; the facility grew from 530 sqft to nearly 1,200 sqft with help from local contractor HCD of Nampa and volunteers.

High school students in Nampa join the IGNITE program today to gain hands-on training in emergency services and skilled trades — practicing at Fire Station 1 and Fleet Services.

The initiative helps overcome a workforce shortage by partnering with the school district and local organizations.

Senate Education Committee lawmakers considered applying budget cuts to the new $50 million school choice tax credit program Tuesday, with Sen. Kevin Cook proposing 4% reductions in 2026 and 5% in 2027 and Sen. Tammy Nichols urging keeping full funding for families; the proposal passed 6-3 and awaits further action.

Boise State will face UNLV Friday night at home after a Mountain West bye, following an 89-85 overtime loss four weeks ago as the Broncos aim to boost their conference standing.

First Steps: Local Entrepreneur Stories

4-5:30 p.m. — College of Western Idaho: Nampa Campus Micron Education Center — Free entry — Discover inspiring business journeys from local entrepreneurs over complimentary food and networking.

Coffee & Connect in Treasure Valley

9:00-10:15 a.m. — Idaho Manufacturing Alliance — Free entry — Sip on great brews while making new connections in a chill environment.

February Mercadito Latino

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Idaho Hispanic Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate the vibrant culture with local Latine vendors, delicious foods, and sweet treats.

Idaho Job & Career Fair

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Nampa Civic Center — Free entry — Explore a variety of job opportunities and speak with employers from diverse industries.