Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 20th of August.
Good morning, Spokane Valley.
Today, a memorial service honoring Sergeant Ken Salas will take place at the Spokane Convention Center at 334 W.
Spokane Falls Boulevard with a procession starting at 11:00 a.m. — public access begins at noon and the service starts at 1:00 p.m., with the planned route causing road closures.
College-bound students have plenty of time to secure financial aid even though Forbes reported over $100 million in scholarships remain unclaimed and the National College Network noted $4.4 billion in Pell Grants were unused last year — experts say incomplete FAFSA submissions are the main issue.
Educators, administrators and safety leaders met at Spokane Convention Center on August 19 to talk about keeping students safe—focusing on building trusted relationships and identifying early warning signs.
Randy Moore and Dr. Manny Tau said strong connections may help prevent school shootings and support a secure learning environment.
Rising temperatures and record wildfires have made fire-safe landscaping a priority for home gardens in 2025; experts advise homeowners to use fire-resistant plants and hardscape features—such as stone walkways and gravel beds—to protect their property.
The National Interagency Fire Center said 47 major fires burn nationwide, and fire crews in Washington and Oregon use single-engine scoopers — which can pick up between 600 and 800 gallons of water at a time — to fight challenging fires.
The Bureau of Land Management predicted fire activity will remain busy through September while officials work with sheriff departments to keep water users safe.
The Spokane Airport Board voted to select David Haring as the new CEO for Spokane Airports to manage Spokane International Airport and Felts Field pending approval by the City and Spokane County.
Haring brings 20 years of airport experience from his role at Lincoln Airport in Nebraska—he replaces Larry Krauter who left for a similar position in Cincinnati.
Spokane Public Schools and Spokane Parks have asked voters to support funding that will reopen the Spokane Community College indoor pool if the Together Spokane levy passes in November— the pool has been closed since 2020.
The facility will serve all age groups and host high school swim practices and therapeutic programs for people with disabilities— a key measure to meet rising demand for safe swimming options.
Health officials confirmed a measles infection in a Kootenai County resident who visited Providence Sacred Heart sites on August 12, 13 and 15—residents are advised to check their vaccination status and contact a health care provider if they experience symptoms like high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and rash.
With school soon to begin, Spokane optometrist Dr. Nate Biancardi from MultiCare urges parents to schedule eye exams for their children to catch vision problems that may affect schoolwork—eye exams can also detect signs of other health issues.
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.
Spokane County Interstate Fair 2025
6:00 – 7:30 p.m. — Spokane County Interstate Fair — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening filled with top rodeo excitement and community fun.
PRCA Rodeo
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. — Spokane County Interstate Fair — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling rodeo action live at the Spokane Fair and Expo Center.
RIM Ride - Rotary in Motion
8 PM – 12 AM — Liberty Launch Academy — Entry fee applicable — Explore scenic routes around Liberty Lake and Spokane Valley during an exciting cycling event for all ages.
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