Good morning, this is your Spokane Local Frequency for Thursday, August 14, 2025.
Start your day with a look at the skies—smoke continues drifting over Spokane from wildfires burning west of the Cascade Mountains. The haze settled over Lake Coeur d'Alene yesterday and is expected to linger today, prompting the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality to peg air quality in the orange for much of our area and issue a burn ban until things improve. Sensitive groups should limit time outdoors, and everyone is encouraged to keep an eye on the evolving smoke forecast.
Speaking of fires, a Level 3 evacuation notice remains in effect for those living between Farwell Road and the Spokane River, near Reardan. The Crescent Road Fire grew quickly, moving north past Whispering Pines and toward Devils Gap and Long Lake Road, keeping first responders on high alert. As always, have an emergency kit ready and heed local authorities if you live near these areas.
On the local policy front, Spokane is seeing significant steps taken on public spending and community initiatives. County residents just approved enhanced funding for aquifer protection—vital for our drinking water—as well as support for local fire districts and police. Several political races narrowed in the recent primary, signaling a busy fall election season ahead.
An eye-catching trend for Spokane and Kootenai counties: bankruptcy filings are ticking upward. New numbers show over 700 filings in Spokane County in the past year, up from just under 500 two years ago. Local experts point to rising housing costs, spiking insurance rates after wildfires, and lingering pandemic-era debt as drivers. Many homeowners are now filing for bankruptcy to save their homes, highlighting the lasting impact high interest rates and housing pressures have on working families.
But there are brighter spots to highlight. One of Spokane’s buzziest events kicks off tonight—Rainbow Kitten Surprise plays the Spokane Pavilion, promising an energetic show for indie rock fans. Tickets are still available, and this is always a crowd-pleaser for concertgoers.
For those looking for family fun and something fresh this weekend, the Garland Pride celebration lights up the district with vendors, drag shows, live music, and food—all free to attend. Or head downtown Saturday for “Unity in the Community,” the region’s largest multicultural festival, which sets up in Riverfront Park with a cultural village, food from around the world, and entertainment. Car lovers, don’t miss the Fourth Annual LocalMotion Car Show in Spokane Valley, boasting everything from classic rat rods to tricked-out imports.
You can also catch the Red Turf Takeover at One Spokane Stadium this evening—doors open at five, with a local sports scrimmage and autograph session starting at six. If you’re in the mood for tradition with a twist, the Spokane Lawn Bowling Club invites newcomers to try out the sport and connect with this quirky piece of local culture.
That’s what’s happening in and around Spokane today. From smoky skies and challenging news to vibrant festivals and a musical night ahead, your community is always moving. This has been Spokane Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
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