Good morning, Spokane.

Last week, customers at Auntie's Bookstore alerted events coordinator Terri Ness to a young rattlesnake on the sidewalk that had nestled in a car tire, prompting her to direct traffic and call wildlife; a local reptile expert safely removed it (using a snake hook) and released it into the wild.

Families in Northwood are still cleaning up fire retardant two weeks after the Upriver Fire (which claimed one life and damaged several homes) as residents work to restore their properties.

Actor Jim Belushi promoted his cannabis brand Belushi’s Farm at a private event hosted by local partners at Daniels Resort northeast of Spokane on Thursday, June 25.

He discussed cannabis’ healing benefits + shared inspiring stories from local users.

Spokane Community College joined the NNME Pacific-Intermountain Network for Education in Semiconductors and will work with Boise State University and other partners to expand electronics training and workforce programs (led by Melody Fyre) in the coming weeks; the move aims to help students prepare for in-demand semiconductor and manufacturing careers.

Spokane County fire officials warn residents to celebrate safely during the upcoming Fourth of July weekend as personal fireworks and sparklers pose fire risks and carry fines up to $536 amid hot, dry conditions.

They advise letting trained professionals handle displays and reporting unsafe fireworks (using local non-emergency options).

Parks & Recreation staff visited Camp Sekani last week and found trails are damaged while the disc golf area fared well.

The agency will complete a full inspection to plan repairs and hazard mitigation as the west side of Beacon Hill and an expanded parking lot at Minnehaha Park remain open.

Spokane County Fire District 9 rolled out its new ambulance service Wednesday after more than a year of work — the new service will serve residents in Mead, Nine Mile Falls, the Foothills and Five Mile Prairie.

The Red Sox finalized a trade early Wednesday to acquire Gonzaga product Brett Harris from the Athletics in exchange for right-handed pitching prospect Ben Hansen; Harris will start at Triple-A Worcester and could be called up if extra corner infield depth is needed.

USA Today released an initial poll listing 15 of Washington's best high school athletes including local stars Gerry Lindgren, Ryne Sandberg, Libby Roberts and Dalton Young; final results will be revealed July 4.

Spokane Velocity lost 1-0 at ONE Spokane Stadium when defender Gagi Margvelashvili's own goal allowed Forward Madison to secure the win.

The team controlled much of the game but could not equalize, marking their second home loss this season.

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.

Rachel Scanlon Live Stand-Up Comedy

9:30 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with LA-based comedian Rachel Scanlon’s critically-acclaimed performances.

Spokane River On-Water Cleanup

10 AM – 3 PM — Redband Park — Free entry — Clean up the Spokane River while enjoying a paddle through its scenic beauty.

Rachel Scanlon Stand-Up Comedy Show

6-9 p.m. — Spokane Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with LA-based comedian Rachel Scanlon, known for her vibrant storytelling and recent hour special.

IMSA International Forum and Expo

All day — Spokane Convention Center — Cost TBA — Explore the latest developments in motorsports at the IMSA International Forum and Expo.

Sam Barber Concert

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Gesa Pavilion — Tickets from $122 — Experience an unforgettable night with live music from Sam Barber in Spokane.