Let’s be honest. It has been hot out — pretty unbearable, in my opinion. Summer started with a massive heat wave in not only Spokane, but the Pacific Northwest. What I did not expect, however, was this wave of kindness I’ve been seeing in the Spokane community.

For me, being in the water is when I feel closest to God. Being in the water God created makes me feel at home, at peace and safe. It makes me feel like I have a connection to God and that I’m being heard.

For myself, my friends and my family who have gotten vaccinated, we’ve all decided to continue wearing masks.

The West Central Abbey recently launched the West Central Farmers Market’s first season. Held on the first Tuesdays of each month from June through October, the market will be open from 4-7 p.m. at 1832 W. Dean Avenue in Spokane.

Earth Day brings hope, and the presence of hope, that provides normalcy. We can go out and explore our Earth, and have a day dedicated to just being, being in and appreciating this planet.

With the threat of racism and white supremacy affecting the country nationally and locally, the upcoming virtual Chertok Lecture Series intends to help students at Eastern Washington University and community members learn more about this pressing issue.