Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 14th of June.
Good morning, Spokane Valley.
Avista announced Friday that Spokane River recreation between the Spokane Street Bridge & Post Falls Dam will resume Monday as summer operations begin at the hydroelectric facility.
The Post Falls boat launch and swim beach at Q'emiln Park will reopen Monday and remain available through Labor Day weather permitting, though water levels may change and cause temporary closures.
Spokane Police Department is investigating a body found near the La Quinta hotel at 211 S Division Street on Friday—authorities are working to determine the circumstances of the discovery.
Spokane County detectives and medical examiner officials are investigating a body found in the Spokane River near the Upriver Dam around 6:50 a.m. Tuesday—its identity and cause of death remain unconfirmed.
A Spokane man, 34-year-old Andre Smolyar, was arrested by the Eastern Washington Missing and Exploited Children Task Force for promoting a suicide attempt, possessing child porn, and communicating with minors for immoral purposes — evidence suggests he may have assaulted minors and used multiple online identities, with possible victims in Spokane, Colorado Springs and Orange County.
The Inland Northwest Land Conservancy bought the 1,060-acre Glen Tana property and is moving to transfer most of it to Washington State Parks and the Spokane Tribe, but a $1 million grant shortfall delays part of the purchase until after May 2026.
The Spokane Tribe already acquired nearly 80 acres and plans a salmon acclimation facility to help restore fish habitat — a step toward preserving this unique wildlife area.
A study reported on Friday, June 13 found that babies exposed to PFAS chemicals before birth had a higher chance of high blood pressure as they grew older, with teenage boys and Black children at greater risk.
Researchers tracked nearly 1,100 children and more than 13,000 blood pressure readings—findings that experts say suggest the need for policy actions to limit PFAS exposure.
Spokane Chiefs captain Berkly Catton, a Seattle Kraken prospect, was named the CHL Sportsman of the Year on Friday — making him only the second player in team history to earn the honor after Pat Falloon in 1990-91 — after recording 109 points in 57 games.
He also led the postseason with 42 points in 20 games as he helped guide Spokane to the WHL Championship Series.
Mastermind Connect Event
2-4:30 p.m. — Burbity Workspaces - Sullivan Valley Commons — $50 — Engage in expert-led discussions and mentorship for business growth.
Filipino-American Friendship Day Celebration
1-4 p.m. — Riverfront Park — Free entry — Celebrate the vibrant Filipino culture with food, music, and fun activities for all ages.
Everett AquaSox vs. Spokane Indians
1-2:35 p.m. — Avista Stadium — Tickets available — Catch the exciting live baseball action as the Everett AquaSox take on the Spokane Indians.
Eugene Emeralds vs. Spokane Indians
1-4 p.m. — Avista Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting baseball matchup between the Eugene Emeralds and Spokane Indians live.
Spokane Indians vs. Eugene Emeralds
1:05-2:35 p.m. — Avista Stadium — Tickets from $36 — Catch the action in this local baseball showdown between the Spokane Indians and Eugene Emeralds.
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