Good morning, Spokane Valley.

Abby Palacios, a Spokane business owner, said she will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by sharing her culture and handing out Know Your Rights cards while offering discounts for warm clothing amid canceled events due to immigration crackdowns—local groups plan smaller celebrations to honor Latino traditions despite heightened political tension.

A Vancouver businessman from TigerStop questioned former trade rep Ron Kirk and former chief of staff Mick Mulvaney on Wednesday at the Association of Washington Business policy summit in Spokane about how tariffs have raised costs for electronics and raw materials.

The panelists explained that changing trade policies—now more protectionist—are creating challenges for local manufacturers and farmers.

Central Valley High School hosted a citizenship ceremony—welcoming 57 new citizens from 27 countries on Constitution and Citizenship Day—and changed its bell schedule so students could see the event.

Spokane voters will decide on a proposal to combine funding for parks and schools in an upcoming election—if passed, the new plan will change how budgets support local services.

Spokane County commissioners reported a $20 million shortfall and scheduled budget roundtables on Sept.

23 at 2 p.m., Oct. 14 at 5:30 p.m. and Nov. 4 at 2 p.m. to plan cuts by 7% and freeze nonessential hires. A privately led task force funded by local groups including Downtown Spokane Partnership + Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce will meet in October to develop public safety and behavioral health improvements and propose a tax measure for next year.

The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries is proposing nearly a 5% hike in workers’ comp rates that will cost full-time employees about $1.37 more per week next year + the increase is meant to cover rising injury costs.

A public hearing will be held in Spokane Valley on October 29 at 9 a.m. + residents may share input before Labor and Industries makes a final decision.

Representatives from the Spokane Tribe of Indians and Washington state signed a new memorandum of understanding that strengthens their partnership and recognizes tribal sovereignty—Commerce said the agreement removed barriers and created opportunities for the tribe.

A mobile health clinic from Molina Healthcare MyHealth Mobile will offer wellness exams, sick visits, sports physicals, and on-site testing at Northeast Community Center during the School and Beyond Street Fair on September 22 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Walk-ups are welcome — appointments depend on availability.

Folk Bird Quilting Workshop with Heather Black

5:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. — Spokane Fairgrounds — Quilt Kit required — Create a delightful family of modern birds in this hands-on quilt workshop.

Cozy Village Quilting Workshop with Fran Gulick

5:30 p.m. — The Quilting Bee — Registration required — Learn to create a modern quilt with three dynamic house block patterns under expert guidance.