Good morning, Spokane.

Jenny Dykes, owner of Stone Crazy in Millwood, is hosting crystal hunts on Inland Northwest trails that leave crystals for locals to find, encouraging youth to explore nature & connect with neighbors.

Hoopfest will close about 45 city blocks starting Friday, making parking and driving challenging for players and spectators in Spokane; organizers advise visitors to use STA services like the Hoop Loop from Jefferson Park and Ride + a $2 fare for easier access.

Residents can enjoy the newly repaired Maple Street Bridge for biking and walking today from 4 to 6 p.m. +Recent repairs included sidewalk widening and ADA curb ramp upgrades+; car traffic resumes at 8 p.m.

The Upriver Fire, which began on June 16 and forced 1,500 evacuations, destroyed 14 primary homes and damaged seven secondary structures and is 85% contained today while emergency management investigates whether a squatter triggered the blaze.

Spokane County officials said the Upriver fire is 85% contained — recovery efforts continue after a squatter in a vacant home sparked the blaze that destroyed 14 primary and 7 secondary structures across 213 acres while crews mop up remaining hot spots.

Arbor Crest Wine Cellars in Spokane is nominated for the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice Award for best winery restaurant, & readers can vote once per day until July 20 with winners named on July 29 at the historic Cliff House Estate overlooking the Spokane River Valley.

A forensic psychologist, Dr. Megan Carter (testifying for over four hours), detailed the trauma the victims endured in a Mead School District civil trial linked to a 2023 football camp hazing incident.

She said support gaps contributed to PTSD, depression and anxiety, and the trial will continue this week.

Federal HUD cuts may halve Spokane's homeless housing programs in 2027 — local organizations are already preparing for the funding changes while nothing shifts immediately.

Kōz on West 4th is converting a former parking lot south of Interstate 90 into 210 affordable apartment units through Spokane’s Parking to People incentive.

The project is expected to be completed later this summer.

The Spokane Indians beat the Tri-City Dust Devils 11 to 9 at Avista Stadium Tuesday night after Ethan Hedges hit a go-ahead three-run home run in the eighth.

The teams will face each other again Wednesday at 6:35 p.m. (at Avista Stadium).

WSU clinched its biggest recruiting win when 4 star offensive lineman Rashaun Lavata'i from Curtis High committed Tuesday to join the Cougars' class of 2027 in Pullman.

The recruit, ranked No. 3 in the state & No. 14 nationally for interior linemen, chose WSU over several Pac 12 offers.

Amber Autry Live Comedy Show

Time TBD — Spokane Comedy Club — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of sharp wit and hilarious anecdotes from rising stand-up star Amber Autry.

Lilac City Sneaker Fest

10 AM - 4 PM — Ruby River Hotel — Vendor spaces available for $60 — Buy, sell, trade, and showcase your favorite sneakers at this ultimate sneaker extravaganza.

Phantom Sam Live

5-10 p.m. — The Big Dipper — Tickets from $54 — Experience a can't-miss live performance at Spokane's favorite venue.

The Convalescence Live Concert

6:30-10 p.m. — The Big Dipper — Tickets from $72 — Experience an unforgettable night with The Convalescence in a lively Spokane venue.

Soulful Sounds in Spokane

7-9 p.m. — Montvale Event Center — $40.00 — Experience a night filled with soulful fun and vintage glamour inspired by the Harlem Renaissance.

The Big Red Wagon Laugh Off

7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience Spokane's biggest comedy showdown featuring local comics and audience voting for a night full of laughs.

4th of July Fireworks Celebration & Spokane Symphony Concert

10 a.m. – 10 p.m. — Riverfront Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with music, a carnival, and a stunning fireworks display.

The Big Red Wagon Laugh Off

7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket price varies — Experience an energetic comedy showdown with local talent and audience participation.

Kosta La Vista Patio Concert

6-9 p.m. — Osprey Restaurant & Bar — Free admission — Enjoy electric blues and classic-rock favorites with Kosta La Vista as the sun sets over Spokane.

That One Mailman Live Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Sean Fogelson, the TikTok sensation bringing his comedy to the stage.