Daily
Spokane
Thursday, May 7th, 2026
Good morning, Spokane. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 7th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Spokane Valley is planning an outdoor amphitheater in Balfour Park that may hold up to 4,500 people. The project is part of a $10 million park improvement plan that has already added new courts and will soon include a playground and splash pad — design details await funding approval. The Spokesman-Review
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ A Marcus man — Ethan Jennings — left a family barbecue to paddle nearly a mile in cold water and help Stevens County deputies and National Park Service rescue two men after a boat sank near Marcus Island. KHQ
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A new survey from the Association of Washington Business found 24% of employers are mulling leaving the state due to high taxes and economic worries, with 67% of Spokane County respondents considering relocating their personal residences—responses were gathered from April 8—22, 2026. KHQ
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Stage Left Theater launches its Legacy Play initiative with Lee Blessing’s 'A Walk in the Woods,' opening Friday and running through May 24 in Spokane. The production honors past seasons with a cast led by Marek Nelson + Lacey Olson. The Spokesman-Review
- ➤ Modest Mouse will perform a sold-out show at the Knitting Factory on Tuesday with experimental-electronic artist Mattress joining the act. The performance comes just weeks before the drop of their new album, An Eraser and A Maze. The Spokesman-Review
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Gonzaga University addressed a recent racist incident on campus by issuing a statement that outlines steps to support affected community members and prevent future occurrences. Officials said they are reviewing current policies and planning further measures to enhance campus safety. KXLY
- ➤ State superintendent Chris Reykdal is working to preserve pre-K spots for 4-year-olds in high-poverty and rural districts today after the Legislature cut funding for 2,000 slots for next school year. OSPI’s plan keeps enrollment in 157 districts while programs in more affluent areas face the deepest cuts. The Spokesman-Review
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Washington Department of Ecology awarded $595,000 to Spokane-based efforts to reduce PFAS in the Spokane River watershed. Spokane County, the City, and Eastern Washington University will use the funds for treatment filters, wastewater research, and environmental sampling. KHQ
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The city approved land for an indoor baseball facility today (located near the new sports complex) as planning for construction begins later this year. KXLY
- ➤ Spokane County received a FEMA grant to fund wildfire prevention work in four conservation areas. Officials are in phase one planning to remove dead trees and brush at Haynes (with Holmberg, Beacon Hill, and McKenzie) to help protect communities as fire season nears. KXLY
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Residents in West Plains who rely on private wells can pick up water filter pitchers and containers on Saturday, May 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Waste to Energy Plant — city officials offer guidance on using the water fill station and testing wells amid PFAS concerns. KHQ
- ➤ Spokane Fire Department is launching a new program today (designed to lower overdose incidents) that will involve community outreach and training at local stations. The initiative aims to provide prevention tools to help residents receive timely support. KXLY
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ At Cheney High School’s Oswald Field on Tuesday afternoon, the Mead boys won the Greater Spokane League championship with 184.5 points and Mt. Spokane girls earned a narrow 124-point win despite losing key sprinter Laine Gardner — a result that may see the meet format become permanent. The Spokesman-Review
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Chris Porter Live Comedy Show
7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket price varies — Experience the comedic stylings of Chris Porter, from TV to stage.
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Spokane Farmers Market
8 AM – 12 PM — Spokane Farmers' Market — Free entry — Discover fresh, seasonal produce and local artisan goods at this vibrant food-focused market.
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Shapel Lacey Comedy Show
7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket price varies — Enjoy a night of stand-up with comedian Shapel Lacey, known for his unique perspective and punk rock spirit.
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Comedy Night with Jim Florentine
7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Tickets available at the door — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Jim Florentine, renowned for his sharp wit and media presence.
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Scott Thompson Live
7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with the renowned comedian from The Kids in the Hall.
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The Hunchback of Notre Dame
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Spokane Civic Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a lushly scored retelling of Victor Hugo’s epic tale of love and acceptance.
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Wes Barker's Comedy Magic Show
4-7 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience hilarious tricks and wild stories from the funniest magician touring today.
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KVON - Kevan Moezzi Live
4:00 – 5:30 PM — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience the comedic charm of the world's most famous half-Persian comedian live on stage.
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The Bright Lights of Broadway: The Human Story Behind the Spotlight
6:15-10:30 p.m. — The Fox Theater — $23 GA, $12 Seniors & Students — A vibrant concert showcasing the compelling human stories and unforgettable music of Broadway.
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IMPACT Company Showcase 2026
6:30-9:30 p.m. — The Fox Theater — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate a season of hard work and talent with young dancers showcasing their skills.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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