Good morning, Spokane Valley.

James Lowe led the Spokane Symphony in its first 80th season concert on Saturday night, performing Mahler’s First Symphony with guest soloist Ashley Dixon adding heartfelt emotion— the review praised their clear and passionate interpretation as an inspiring start to the season.

Rising gas prices pushed some Spokane residents to drive to Idaho for cheaper fuel—Washington gas cost $4.66 per gallon compared to Idaho's $3.51, a $1.15 difference—while others increased their use of public transit amid the cost rise.

Spokane Transit Authority reported fixed route ridership doubled since 2021, although some drivers still prefer their own cars.

Rising gas prices in Spokane have led some residents to drive to Idaho for cheaper fuel—while others turn to public transit as ridership on fixed route services has doubled.

Drivers in Spokane face construction disruptions as Rockwood Boulevard is closed today between Grand Boulevard and Cowley Street for water and sewer upgrades—North Ash Street will begin stormwater work from September 22 until 24 with southbound lanes reduced from three to one.

Retired firefighter Dan Garner—who won just over 100 more votes than incumbent Roger Krieger in August—launched his campaign for Fire District 4 commissioner ahead of the November election.

The candidates differ over staffing, equipment, and budget as District 4 covers 330 square miles and relies on 40 full-time firefighters while Garner, backed by the firefighters union, calls for more personnel and safer gear.

Candidates Kate Telis and Alejandro Barrientos shared their priorities for Spokane’s City Council District 2 on September 14—Telis highlighted public safety and neighborhood planning while Barrientos emphasized infrastructure repairs, housing solutions, and bipartisan collaboration ahead of the Nov. 4 election. Both are running for the seat vacated by Councilwoman Lili Navarrete.

Washington Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer held a town hall in Spokane last Wednesday to answer questions about health care and rising wildfire insurance costs for homeowners — she said her office is working with local officials on a grant program to help communities prepare for wildfires.

Sarah Freedman is challenging municipal judge Gloria Ochoa-Bruck in an election, arguing that the judge lacks empathy and did not provide proper ADHD accommodations during a trial—raising concerns about fairness for defendants.

Ochoa-Bruck defended her courtroom methods as necessary for handling tricky cases while critics say her actions hinder quality legal service.

Experts warn that Washington teens face increased risks from online gambling sites that expose them to addictive betting behavior and potential financial harm.

Attorney General Nick Brown and Certified Gambling Counselor Riley Leno from Spokane explained that digital betting promoted by popular streamers—highlighting risky practices—may lead to escalating problems if not urgently addressed.