By FāVS News Staff
Fire destroys Post Falls church, displacing students and congregation
A fire early Sunday destroyed River Church in Post Falls, displacing more than 100 students and a congregation. The building housed Little Explorers Learning Center and River Tech Performing Arts School, both heavily damaged. No injuries were reported, but the structure may be beyond repair. The Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office and ATF are investigating the cause. Families and staff are working to relocate, while community members have begun fundraising and offering support to help both schools recover and resume classes soon.
Washington awards $16.8M to Tribal Clean Energy Projects, Yakama Nation among top recipients
The Washington State Department of Commerce announced last week $16.8 million in funding for 22 clean energy projects across 17 tribal communities to support renewable energy development and resilience. The Yakama Nation is among the largest recipients, with multiple projects focused on solar generation, energy storage and infrastructure planning. Funded through several state programs, the investments aim to promote tribal energy independence, lower energy costs and strengthen community facilities. Officials say the projects reflect tribal priorities and support long-term sustainability, while advancing broader climate goals and clean energy access throughout Washington.
Olympia passes first polyamory protections in Washington, signaling broader push
Olympia has become the first city in Washington to explicitly protect polyamorous and nontraditional families under its antidiscrimination and housing laws, following a unanimous city council vote. The policy adds “diverse family and relationship structures” to existing protections, covering arrangements such as polyamory, multigenerational households and chosen families, reported KNKX.
Advocates say the move addresses widespread stigma and discrimination, with studies showing many people in consensual nonmonogamous relationships face bias in housing, employment and health care. Similar legislation is advancing in Portland, with efforts underway in Seattle and Tacoma.
Organizers hope momentum at the city level will lead to statewide protections. Supporters emphasize the measure is a simple legal update, while future efforts may include broader reforms like recognizing plural domestic partnerships and expanding next-of-kin rights.
Immersive Easter drama brings story of Jesus to life in Coeur d’Alene
“Heart of Heaven” is an immersive Easter experience in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, held April 3–4. The event begins with an interactive Easter Village 90 minutes before each performance, followed by a live drama portraying the story of Jesus. Designed for all ages, it offers a meaningful, family-friendly celebration of hope, love and new life. Showtimes are April 3 at 6 p.m. and April 4 at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. The event will be held at Coeur d’Alene Adventist Church (111 E Locust Ave.). Free tickets are available online.
WSU imposes Middle East travel ban for university-related trips amid safety concerns
Washington State University has enacted a ban on university-related travel to several Middle Eastern and nearby countries due to ongoing regional conflict and safety risks. The restriction, issued by its Risk Management Executive Committee, applies to all faculty, staff, students and volunteers. Affected destinations include nations under Level 3 or 4 advisories from the U.S. State Department, such as Iran, Israel, Iraq, and others in surrounding areas.
Spokane event celebrates ‘Astrological New Year’ with zodiac workshop
Anam Cara will host “Astrological New Year & The Cosmic Wheel” on March 23, from 6-7:30 p.m. Led by Kelsey Adkins, the 90-minute event marks the start of Aries season with an interactive exploration of zodiac archetypes and natal charts. Attendees will learn how astrological energies connect and shape personality traits. Designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike, the session focuses on self-discovery through astrology. Tickets are priced at $33 and can be purchased online.
FāVS News uses professional journalists and thoughtful commentary to explore faith, values and ethics. Support journalism like this by making a tax-deductible donation. FāVS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
