Good morning, Spokane Valley.

NAACP Spokane Branch President Lisa Gardner will step down after the end of 2026 as the branch begins a leadership transition with elections scheduled for November — volunteers for the nominating committee should submit interest by June 15.

Downtown Spokane was prepped last night for the Armed Force Torchlight Parade that kicked off the Lilac Festival, sparking spring celebrations in the community.

The parade marked a festive start to the season (local residents joined the enthusiasm).

River City Youth is hosting two community planting days to restore pollinator habitats in Spokane’s West Central neighborhood — the first will be on Tuesday, May 19 at 1832 West Dean Avenue from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and the second on Tuesday, May 26 at 1431 North Belt Street.

Providence Sacred Heart said it will hire experienced evaluators with master’s degrees to manage emergency room mental health screenings beginning in mid-July — patient processes remain unchanged while affected staff receive a 60-day notice.

May is Mental Health Awareness month and NAMI Spokane offers resources to help residents feel supported and less isolated.

The initiative provides local mental health information today, ensuring help is available when needed.

Soccer Saturday is a special edition of SPR News Today that features local head coaches for United Soccer League clubs discussing tactics and strategy to help viewers enjoy the game better—explaining how to spot both defensive plays and creative attacks.

Cade Orness, a Gonzaga transfer, announced on Saturday his commitment to Mount St. Mary’s for the next step in his college basketball career—he played eight games last season after earning a walk-on scholarship at Gonzaga.

The Farm Chicks Vintage & Handmade Fair

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sunday — Spokane County Fair and Expo Center — $10 per person (children 12 and under free) — Experience a weekend filled with curated vintage and handmade treasures from many charming vendors.