Good morning, Spokane Valley.

Hands Across Spokane will unite local providers in a mental health resource fair at the North Central Community Mental Health—Development Center on October 10, offering free screenings, behavioral health care, housing assistance and legal aid while featuring food trucks, music and a 1:00 p.m. group photo to show community support.

Vanessa Behan will host its 22nd Annual Pumpkin Ball on October 18 at The Davenport Grand Hotel from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.—the gala will feature a three-course meal, auctions, games, live music and dancing—and will raise funds for at-risk children and families.

Yesterday, local radio hosts Jay and Kevin launched their 30th annual food drive from R&R RV at 525 East Francis—encouraging residents to drop off non-perishable food or monetary donations to support families in the Inland Northwest.

All contributions will benefit 2nd Harvest as the event continues all week.

The Cannon Street Bridge Shelter reopened as a day center operated by Jewel’s Helping Hands—providing showers, meals, laundry services and case management—and is planning to expand support with medical, mental health and addiction services as an ordinance vote is underway.

Parents in Spokane can open a 529 education plan once their child receives a Social Security number — the account grows money tax-free for tuition, books, supplies and K-12 private school costs.

Financial experts say the plan is flexible — funds can be transferred to another family member or rolled into a Roth IRA if circumstances change.

Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer asked insurers in Washington to offer a grace period of 30 days for auto, renters, and homeowners insurance to help nearly 80,000 federal employees affected by the shutdown.

She said the measure will let policyholders avoid losing coverage or incurring fees—insurers are urged to clearly explain available options.

Spokane County will add an emblem — showing the 988 hotline — to all county vehicles to remind anyone in crisis to seek help after 120 suicides occurred last year, and the $18 cost for each of the 200 emblems will fund programs for veterans, service members and their families.

Sam Funches recounted his official visit to Gonzaga where he toured basketball facilities and saw trophies in Mark Few’s office—he said the college’s culture made him feel welcome.

The four-star center from Mississippi will announce his decision within three weeks after completing visits to other schools.

Seattle Kraken finalized its opening-night roster on Monday with 19-year-old Berkly Catton, the WHL's third-highest scorer last season, whose entry-level contract will begin if he plays more than nine games—otherwise it will be delayed if sent back to the Spokane Chiefs.

North American newcomer Jani Nyman, goaltenders Matt Murray, Joey Daccord, and Philipp Grubauer, along with Ryan Winterton, also earned spots as the Kraken prepares for a condensed Olympic season.

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.

Wild Moose Chase Trail Run

8 AM — Riverside State Park — Entry fee applies — Experience one of the best trail runs in the Pacific Northwest with options for 5k, 10k, and 25k races.

Manufacturing Suppliers Expo

8:00 AM - 5:30 PM — Mirabeau Park Hotel & Convention Center — Cost info not provided — Connect with key players in the regional manufacturing industry at this annual expo.