By FāVS News Staff
Local churches repurpose properties
Churches in Spokane County are increasingly exploring ways to repurpose underutilized properties to meet pressing community needs like affordable and senior housing. Spokane Journal of Business reported on this type of stewardship writing churches are generally among the top three landowners in any community. Spokane County hosts about 500 of those properties, which are designated houses of worship.
Declining attendance and high land values are part of what is driving the trend, with faith leaders advocating for redevelopment as a path to financial sustainability and mission fulfillment. Successful projects, like St. Ann Catholic Parish’s conversion of a convent into an assisted-living facility and Country Homes Christian Church’s sale of land for senior housing, exemplify this shift, the Journal of Business reported. The “Yes in God’s Backyard” (YIGBY) movement is gaining traction, reframing church properties as vital community assets. Leaders encourage faith groups to act now to remain relevant and impactful.
Federal court upholds trans youth law
A federal appeals court has dismissed a lawsuit challenging Washington’s 2023 law (SB 5599) that allows emergency shelters to notify state authorities instead of parents when runaway transgender youth seek gender-affirming care. A three-judge panel from the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals unanimously upheld a lower court’s decision, reported the Washington State Standard. The court ruled the plaintiffs lacked legal standing, as they couldn’t show actual harm. The plaintiffs — parents and conservative nonprofits — argued the law violated parental rights and constitutional protections.
Washington Attorney General Nick Brown called the case a politicized attempt to invent legal grounds. The law permits delayed parental notification if abuse or neglect is suspected, especially when linked to a youth’s pursuit of gender-affirming or reproductive care. The conservative group America First Legal, founded by Trump ally Stephen Miller, led the legal effort. Despite amending the complaint, the case was dismissed again, reinforcing the law’s legal standing and protections for trans youth.
Latino festival canceled amid safety fears
Amid rising immigration enforcement and safety concerns, Spokane’s annual Tacos y Tequila Festival, celebrating Latino culture, has been canceled. Nuestras Raíces Community Center, the event’s organizer, cited fears of targeting and anti-immigrant rhetoric as key reasons. The two-day festival, which drew 7,000 attendees daily and raised funds for community programs, was expected to raise $80,000 this year. Despite exploring security measures, the nonprofit lacked resources to proceed. The event was to take place Aug. 23 and 24. Other Latino events, including Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, have also been canceled. Organizers stress the emotional and economic toll, especially on small businesses. They urge action to protect communities and restore safe, inclusive public spaces. More information can be found in The Spokesman-Review story on the topic.
Washington joins lawsuit over Planned Parenthood Medicaid cuts
Attorney General Nick Brown joined 23 other states in suing the Trump Administration over a Congressional budget provision blocking Medicaid reimbursements to Planned Parenthood. The coalition argues this measure unlawfully targets low-income Americans’ access to essential healthcare services, including cancer screenings and STI treatment. In Washington, nearly half of Planned Parenthood patients rely on Medicaid. The lawsuit claims the provision violates the Constitution and would strip $11.8 million from the state, disrupting care and raising healthcare costs. Despite temporary relief through another court ruling, states seek a permanent injunction to halt implementation and protect public health and Medicaid funding nationwide. More information about this lawsuit can be found here.
Moscow food drive set for Aug. 2 to support local food banks
The Great Moscow Food Drive will take place Saturday, Aug. 2, at East City Park, 900 E. 3rd St., Moscow, Idaho, and the Moscow Farmers Market, 101-155 W. 4th St., Moscow, Idaho. Established in 2000, the annual event supports local food banks during a time of year when supplies are critically low. Community members are encouraged to donate nonperishable food items or cash, with funds especially needed for the Weekend Food for Kids program due to rising demand. Donations will also benefit the Moscow Food Bank, West Side Food Pantry and Deary Food Bank. Cash contributions can be made on-site or online throughout July and August at www.humanrightslatah.org. The event is sponsored by the Moscow Human Rights Commission and the Latah County Human Rights Task Force.
Sound bath event scheduled Aug. 6 at Anam Cara
Join Jessie Jo for “Mind. Body. Sound,” a special sound bath event on Wednesday, Aug. 6, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Anam Cara, 7 S. Howard St., Suite 210. This deeply healing experience uses crystal singing bowls, gongs and other instruments to help clear old energy and invite renewal during the summer season. Participants are encouraged to bring a pillow, yoga mat, eye mask and anything to create a cozy, tranquil space for rest and reflection. The session costs $44 and offers a chance to reset your mind, body and spirit. Reserve your spot for this restorative journey.
Some summaries created with help of AI. Staff still carefully edited material for content quality and publication standards.
