Good morning, Spokane Valley.

The Spokane Lilac Festival Association launched its first-ever Best Spokane Military Business of the Year contest to honor businesses that support military personnel and their families.

Community members can nominate businesses until April 11 — a public vote will run from April 14–21 with the winner announced on April 28 and recognized at an All-City Civic Military Luncheon on May 14.

The Spokane Lilac Festival Association launched its first-ever Best Spokane Military Business of the Year contest to honor local businesses that support military members and their families.

Community members will nominate businesses from April 1—11, vote from April 14—21, and the winner will be announced on April 28 and honored on May 14 at the All-City Civic Military Luncheon.

A 27-year-old man pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and first-degree assault after he attacked a woman downtown and later killed an Eastern State Hospital patient — he was sentenced to 18 years in prison and will serve three years of probation.

The Spokane Fire Department expanded its CARES team this week by adding a new social worker—enabling same-day crisis support through home visits and connecting people who call 911 with needed community resources amid rising overdoses.

Residents planning to fly after May 7 must get a Real ID, passport or other TSA approved ID since their driver license will not work for air travel.

Washington Department of Licensing spokesman Thomas Charlson said making an appointment in Spokane (or checking office wait times) will help travelers meet the new rules.

National Walking Day yesterday showed that staying active helps both heart and brain health—Dr. Mohit Jain said that walking or running lowers cholesterol, burns calories, and boosts mood.

Local 94-year-old Sister Madonna Buder, known as the Iron Nun, shared her story of daily walks along the Centennial Trail and of completing 45 Ironman triathlons while living in assisted care.

More than 1,100 fans gathered at Avista Stadium Wednesday night to meet the players, watch a home run derby and see new stadium upgrades—like a refreshed field, padded walls and better dugouts—before the team opens against the Everett AquaSox Friday night.

Spokane Indians vs. Everett AquaSox

6:35-10:35 p.m. — Avista Stadium — Competitive pricing — Catch an exciting live baseball game between the Spokane Indians and Everett AquaSox.

Everett AquaSox vs Spokane Indians

1:05-5:05 p.m. — Avista Stadium — Cost varies — Watch the thrilling baseball matchup between the AquaSox and the Indians at Avista Stadium.

Spokane Indians vs Vancouver Canadians

1-4 p.m. — Avista Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Catch the exciting matchup between the Spokane Indians and the Vancouver Canadians.

Vancouver Canadians vs. Spokane Indians

1:05-5:05 p.m. — Avista Stadium — Cost info varies — Experience baseball excitement as the Vancouver Canadians take on the Spokane Indians live.

Facilities Maintenance Expo in Spokane

9-11 a.m. — Spokane County Fair and Expo Center — Free entry — Explore essential products for facility maintenance with hands-on demonstrations.

Spokane Bike Swap & Expo

9 AM – 4 PM — Spokane County Fair and Expo Center — $7 (13 & Older), Free for Kids 12 & younger — Explore hundreds of new and used bikes from over 50 exhibitors while enjoying community and wellness activities.

Eugene Emeralds vs. Spokane Indians

11:05 AM — Avista Stadium — Ticketed event — Experience the excitement of minor league baseball as the Eugene Emeralds take on the Spokane Indians live!

Spokane County Career Expo

11 AM — Spokane County Fair and Expo Center — Free admission — Discover career resources, coaching sessions, and workshops at the region's largest career expo.

Breakthrough Basketball Shooting Skills Camp

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Hub Sports Center — Registration fee required — Enhance your shooting and offensive skills with expert coaching and specialized drills.