🌱 Two New COVID Testing Sites + Banff Film Festival Returns

Happy Friday, people of Spokane! Here's everything you need to know about what's happening today in Spokane.

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First, today's weather:

Freezing fog in the morning. High: 35 Low: 22.

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Here are the top three stories today in Spokane:

1. A COVID-19 startup has announced the deployment of two new testing site kiosks in Spokane for the general public. The COVID-19 testing and public health service startup Curative, in collaboration with Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD), has opened two site kiosks in downtown Spokane — one in CHAS Health's Denny Murphy Clinic parking lot, and the other at the Mead School District Union stadium. Insurance is not required for testing, and results will be available within one to two days upon receipt at the lab. (Spokane Regional Health)
2. A team of twenty National Guard members is helping with COVID-19 testing at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center. The team is expected to be in Spokane for about a month to help ease the burden of the overwhelmed healthcare system. The team is assisting with COVID-19 testing, caregiver mask testing, and other clinical roles during both day and evening shifts. (KXLY Spokane)
3. The Banff Film Festival is returning to Spokane with an in-person showing, after a year's absence. The festival, which features a solid mix of traditional outdoor adventure films and thoughtful environmental pieces, will take place on Feb. 18 and 19 at the Bing Crosby Theater. While this year's festival will be in person, there is still an option available to watch the films online. (The Spokesman Review)

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Today in Spokane:

• Online Storytime, At North Spokane Library (9:30 AM)

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From my notebook:

• The Spokane County Sheriff's office welcomed new lateral Deputy Dan Spiewak on Monday, Jan. 17. (Facebook)
• SpokAnimal C.A.R.E. loves donations for their store and all proceeds benefit the animals in the shelter! (Facebook)
• Looking for a relaxed night out in Spokane? Good food doesn't need to be expensive. Check out these amazing and affordable local restaurants. (Instagram)
• Friday, Jan. 28, is an early release day for all Spokane Public Schools students, and Monday, Jan. 31 is semester break day, which means no school. (Facebook)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Friday off right! I'll see you back in your inbox tomorrow with your next update.

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.