Spokane News Today | 2 Min | The Daily News Now!

Aaron Farinacci, the man behind the devastating Old Trails fire that destroyed over 600 homes near Spokane, is facing first-degree arson charges—and he’s not alone in his destructive streak. Linked to four other fires including the Aubrey White blaze, Farinacci bizarrely told investigators he sees fire as a spiritual rebirth. His girlfriend stunned authorities by handing over a phone screenshot linking him to notorious arsonist John Leonard Orr. Complicating matters, Farinacci has a violent past—including murder convictions—and while deemed mentally competent to stand trial, psychologists still deem him a danger. The feds are now stepping in with their own charges, and with a $2 million bond and a September hearing looming, this case is far from resolved.

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Two Spokane teachers, Scott Kelley and Drew Yanuszeski, are returning to class this week after losing their homes in the devastating August wildfires — just blocks from Riverside State Park. Now part of a larger group of over thirty SPED staff displaced by the flames, they’re juggling insurance claims, temporary housing, and emotional recovery while preparing for a new school year. Drew feels drained, likening his state to the end of the school year; Scott’s still in survival mode, bracing for the emotional crash. They’re leaning on each other and their supportive colleagues as they rebuild — both plan to return to their original lots in about a year and a half. Though insurance covers much, the mental toll is crushing. Still, they’re ready to show up for students — many of whom also lost homes — with Drew planning to share a photo of his ruined house on day one, and Scott open to sharing if asked, focused on connection and presence.

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A seventy-five-year-old woman writes to working mothers, sharing how her own mother’s late-night shifts never diminished their bond—because it was the quality of time, not quantity, that mattered most. Through simple moments like coloring and reading on weekends, she shows that love thrives in authenticity, not perfection. Her mother’s wisdom—Those who care don’t matter, and those who matter don’t care—echoes a deeper truth: real connection comes from being yourself, not performing for others. Her father, though hardworking and practical, was happiest at home in his truest self—a reminder that self-acceptance and genuine presence are what truly nourish families.

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Caden Pinnick is set to start at QB for Washington State, bringing dual-threat firepower after a stellar season at UC Davis. Meanwhile, the Mariners crushed the Phillies 9-2, thanks to Cal Raleigh’s three-homer explosion — a huge lift after his slump. Utah’s welcoming back former players for culture, Boise State’s stadium food debut drew media buzz, and the Big Sky kicks off with high-stakes matchups. The Seahawks’ QB depth remains a key question as they brace for a tough season.

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Dolly Parton, the legendary Queen of Country music, has died at 80, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped music, cinema, and philanthropy. With 25 Billboard country chart-toppers and iconic hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” she ruled the genre for six decades. Beyond the stage, she built Dollywood, gifted 200 million books via her Imagination Library, and donated millions to global causes. Even in health struggles, she soared—collaborating with McCartney and Nicks on her “Rockstar” album. A self-made icon from the Smoky Mountains, she penned classics for others and proved her genius extended far beyond the microphone, forever lighting up the world with her generosity, grit, and unforgettable spirit.

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Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is transforming childhood literacy in Washington state, delivering nearly 40,000 free books to kids and helping build home libraries that spark imagination and learning. Since 2005, the program has sent over 4.85 million books statewide—pausing briefly in July due to funding, but revived thanks to matching support from two foundations that stepped in to cover half the costs. With renewed momentum, thousands of children now receive a new book monthly, though officials stress the need for ongoing public funding to ensure long-term access. The program’s executive director calls its impact “colossal,” honoring Dolly’s legacy through every story shared and child inspired. Beyond music, Dolly’s generosity—from wildfire relief to theme parks and humanitarian awards—continues to uplift communities, proving her enduring influence on education and futures.

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Hayden Panettiere’s boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, has issued his first public statement amid the ongoing investigation into her death, urging respect for the process and confirming police found no signs of foul play. The DEA has now joined the probe, adding complexity to the case. Known for “Heroes” and “Nashville,” Panettiere candidly detailed her battle with addiction—including a troubling early encounter with a “happy pill”—and her experiences with domestic abuse in her memoir, including an incident where she fought for her life against Hickerson, who was later convicted in 2021 for injuring a spouse. As authorities dig deeper, the full picture of her passing remains unclear.

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Aaron Farinacci, accused of starting Spokane’s deadliest wildfire, has been deemed mentally fit to stand trial — a major legal milestone as the community reels from the blaze that displaced over 68,000 and destroyed more than 800 homes. Despite a history including a self-inflicted gunshot wound after his father’s death and ongoing depression treatment, a psychologist confirmed he understands the charges and can assist his defense. Now, the focus shifts to courtroom proceedings as the case moves forward without a trial date set.

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The Idaho Lottery dropped over $4,700 on back-to-school deliveries to four North Idaho schools, funding classroom projects and Love Your School awards—powered by VIP Club members who donate $1,000 monthly to public schools. Funds are already boosting student programs: Kootenai Elementary plans guest speakers, Idaho Hill Elementary is upgrading testing software, and Washington Elementary is expanding its reading intervention. It’s more than cash—it’s community support for educators and students as they start the school year strong.

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A married couple, Mike and Joyce Sedler, both pulled off holes-in-one on the same golf course—Joyce first on the 7th hole, then Mike on the 17th—creating a rare, joyful moment shared with their friends. After 47 years together, this unforgettable day wasn’t just about luck—it was about celebrating love, laughter, and the magic of making memories side by side.

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