Good morning, Spokane.

A fire started in an alley near East North Avenue and North Lidgerwood Street on May 7 and spread to a home, garage, shed, metal shop, and fences in Spokane’s Lidgerwood neighborhood; firefighters knocked it down within 20 minutes while police search for a suspect light blue or silver Audi A4 with a damaged bumper—no injuries were reported.

Community Bank branches in northeastern Oregon and southeastern Washington will close at 3:00 p.m. Friday, May 9, and reopen Tuesday morning as STCU locations with the same staff—this change expands STCU's network and offers customers greater access to online banking and 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs.

On May 7, a suspicious fire in the Northtown neighborhood on the 500 block of E North Ave began in a back alley at 12:30 p.m.—damaging a shed, garage, shop, house attic, and fences—while Spokane Police investigate and seek tips about a light blue or silver Audi A4 with a damaged rear bumper and mismatched wheels.

Couger Devereaux, accused of fatally shooting 19-year-old Mary Kapustin near Emerson Park last July in a gang-related incident, is held on $2 million bond—he was arrested in Colorado and faces charges of second-degree murder with arraignment set for May 20.

Spokane Public Schools lost a dedicated public servant when Greg Forsyth died in his sleep on April 8 at age 64 after more than two decades as a teacher and capital projects director—he helped build schools and major projects like ONE Spokane Stadium.

A public memorial will be held on May 10 at 10 a.m. in ONE Spokane Stadium to honor his lasting impact.

Water Wise Spokane, a City program, offers free lawn inspections to help homeowners lower water bills during warmer weather—technicians visit homes to explain proper watering times, sprinkler care, and rebate options for eco-friendly landscaping.

The service aims to reduce Spokane's high water use by sharing practical tips on lawn care.

Legislators passed several laws two weeks ago that mirror Spokane's recent urban changes—such as loosening parking rules and authorizing shared streets for pedestrians and vehicles.

The new measures also include pilot programs for transit-oriented development and affordable housing credits—steps that could reshape regional growth until 2027.

The Washington Department of Health began investigating the suicide of 12-year-old Sarah Niyimbona (who jumped from Providence Sacred Heart’s parking garage on April 13) after the tragedy sparked outrage among local lawmakers and advocates.

Hospital officials responded by submitting a safety plan, and local leaders continue to call for clearer measures to protect young patients.

Spokane Garden Expo

2-10 AM — Spokane Community College — Entry fees apply — Dive into a vibrant world of gardening with over 300 exhibitors and expert presentations.

Mermaid Run Spokane 2025

7:30 a.m. — Riverfront Park — Registration required — Participate in a vibrant women's half marathon in the heart of Spokane.

Josh Blue Live in Spokane

7 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Witness the sharp wit and humor of comedian Josh Blue, ex-seven-a-side-soccer paralympian on his tour.

Rocky Mountain Rodeo Challenge

May 16-17 — Spokane Arena — Attendance Fee Required — Experience the thrill of world champion cowboys and cowgirls at the premier rodeo event.

Spokane Symphony Presents The Music of Tina Turner

2-3:30 p.m. — The Fox Theater — Ticket information available — Celebrate the legendary music of Tina Turner with outstanding vocal performances and symphony accompaniment.

Windermere 10km Race

5 AM – 1 PM — Riverfront Park — Registration fees apply — Experience a scenic point-to-point race with aid stations and refreshments.

Washington FOP Wellness Training

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. — The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection — Free entry — Learn from wellness experts on the importance of officer wellness with networking opportunities included.

Spokane Indians vs Tri-City Dust Devils

11:05 a.m. — Avista Stadium — Cheap tickets available — Experience the excitement of a live baseball game featuring the Spokane Indians against the Tri-City Dust Devils.

Comedic Cody's Stand-Up Show

7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — $27-$37 — Enjoy a night of laughter with TikTok sensation Comedic Cody as he takes the stage.

Master Your Emotions Workshop

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Regus - Spokane- Washington Trust — Paid event — Enhance your emotional intelligence with engaging techniques for personal and professional growth.