Good morning, Spokane Valley.

Fred Meyer is partnering with The Salvation Army to host a school supply drive throughout August to help local children prepare for school.

New supplies can be dropped off at any Fred Meyer store near the Customer Service Center — donations will go directly to families in need.

Alaska Airlines is launching a year-round nonstop flight from Spokane to John Wayne Airport starting in January, with flights from Orange County leaving in the morning and flights to Orange taking off in the afternoon.

The new route gives Eastern Washington travelers a direct connection to Southern California attractions, including Disneyland.

With rising temperatures and gusty winds, the Spokane Fire Department is working to reduce overgrown wildfire fuels and advising residents to keep a clear five feet gap around their homes—homeowners can access free risk assessments from Wildfire Ready Neighbors.

Spokane Police Chief Kevin Hall addressed concerns about police accountability and settlements in an interview Thursday.

The department will begin training on the Integrated Communications, Assessment and Tactics—ICAT—program at the end of next month to improve de-escalation techniques.

Local health officials today provided updated figures on overdose deaths in Spokane Valley and stressed the need for support services—more data will be released as investigations continue.

On Tuesday, the FDA announced that it planned to designate 7-hydroxymitragynine as a controlled substance—a move that will restrict the synthetic opioid-like kratom product sold in Spokane stores and elsewhere.

The decision, aimed at curbing potential health risks, does not affect the sale of traditional kratom leaves used for herbal tea.

On July 31, the Washington State Department of Health launched Naloxone Finder (a website listing free naloxone locations and instructions) to help community members quickly locate this life-saving medication amid high overdose death rates (over 3,100 fatalities in 2024).

Spokane Scottish Highland Games

2:00 – 10:30 AM — Spokane County Fair and Expo Center — Check event website for entry fees — Celebrate Scottish culture with music, athletics, and dance.

Run The Night Glow Run

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Spokane County Interstate Fair — Registration required — Participate in an electrifying nighttime 5K featuring glow effects and lively music.