Virtual Home Dedication

Habitat for Humanity-Spokane held an exceptional “Home for the Holidays” celebration in Deer Park, for two local families. This home dedication was a virtual event streamed live on Facebook.

It was a wet, snowy Friday in December at Hope Meadows in Deer Park, but there was still an energy of excitement and accomplishment. The Habitat Home community was set to celebrate two of their newest neighbors: Dianna Dimitriev with her three children, and Lev and Tatyana Starovoytov with their two children.

Dianna Dimitriev with her three children

A small number, masked and socially distanced, were gathered onsite for the ceremony. The rest of the community was invited to join virtually via a Facebook live video event. CEO for Habitat for Humanity-Spokane, Michelle Girardot led the proceedings. Girardot stated that both families had completed the required steps in the Habitat program. Habitat homeowners partner with Habitat in a variety of volunteer jobs, called “sweat equity”, and may participate in relevant home-owning classes. Over time, they “earn” their affordable mortgage from Habitat. Proceeds are returned back into the program to build more homes.

The families expressed their gratitude for the program and all the volunteers involved. Since both families were Russian speaking, Pastor Alex gave the home dedication and blessing in their native language.

Volunteers and donors are vital to the effort of making these dream homes a reality. If you would like to be involved in future builds, visit: DPGazette.com/habitatvolunteer

If you or someone you know would like to learn how to become part of the Habitat program, check out this informational video: DPGazette.com/habitatvid

You can go back and watch the dedication event unfold at the Facebook event’s page:
DPGazette.com/virtualdedication

Deer Park, Dianna Dimitriev, Habitat for Humanity-Spokane, Hope Meadows, Lev and Tatyana Starovoytov, Michelle Girardot, Washington

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In Memory of Don/Donnie Gilmore

July 18, 2026

Donald “Donnie” Eugene Gilmore of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on June 12, 2026, at the age of 73. He was born in Spokane, Washington, on August 22, 1952. In 1973, Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served on active duty for two years. In 1983, he graduated with a degree in education from Eastern Washington University. Don was a beloved teacher at Springdale Elementary for 25 years. He even got to teach his two sons when they were in the fifth grade (much to their chagrin!). He retired in 2015. Don was married to Denise
Wurz (Lesmeister) from 1983 to 1995.

US 395 Lanes Reopened After Collision Near Monroe Road

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A traffic collision at the intersection of North US Highway 395 and West Monroe Road temporarily blocked northbound traffic. Emergency crews, including multiple fire units and ambulances, responded to the scene to treat individuals and manage traffic flow. All lanes have since been cleared and reopened to regular traffic.

Roberta Anne Cade

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Roberta A. Cade, 81, of Deer Park, Washington, passed away on April 19, 2026. Roberta was the oldest of eight siblings, a role she carried with strength, care, and a deep sense of responsibility throughout her life. She will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and for giving so freely to her friends and family.

Deer Park Kicks Off Summer With Packed Weekend

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Deer Park area residents can look forward to a busy weekend filled with community events, fundraisers, and live entertainment starting this Friday. Activities ranging from a downtown block party to a charity golf tournament offer something for every member of the family. The multi-day lineup includes local businesses, musicians, and charitable organizations working together to welcome the summer season.

Luitgard Margrete Griffin

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One of a kind is what most people stated about Luitgard (Margaret), and that is truly what she was! She was born in Bamberg, Germany, to Johann and Betty Wagner, as the second child. She had an older brother, Hans, and a younger sister, Elfriede.

Luitgard was trained as a seamstress in school and worked making men’s suits, among other things. She met the love of her life, Albert Leroy Griffin, in 1951, and they were married on December 6th, 1952.

Local Scholar Abram J. Lyons Earns Doctorate in Social Welfare

May 26, 2026

Claymont, Delaware — Abram J. Lyons’s family proudly announces that he has earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Welfare from the University of Pennsylvania, marking a significant milestone in his academic and professional career.

Dr. Lyons began his academic career at Loon Lake Grade School and graduated from Deer Park High School in 2005. He went on to earn his Associate of Arts degree from Spokane Falls Community College and his Bachelor of Science from the University of Idaho before serving as a Peace Corps volunteer in Western Ukraine.

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US-395 Reopened Following Motorcycle & Pickup Collision

Traffic is moving again on US-395, but the investigation into today’s serious motorcycle crash is far from over.

As of 5pm today, all lanes of US-395 have been reopened to traffic. Earlier today, a serious collision involving a motorcycle and a white pickup truck at the intersection of Highway 395 and H Street, which is near Henery Hardware, forced a complete closure of the highway, resulting in significant gridlock through the heart of Deer Park.

March 18, 2026

Deer Park Man Missing – Officials Seeking Information

Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputies are seeking public assistance to locate 72-year-old Harry A. Ballman, who was reported missing from his Deer Park home on July 7, 2025. Ballman, who suffers from dementia and other health concerns, was last seen on July 6 and his family is gravely concerned for his welfare amidst rising temperatures. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Crime Check immediately.

July 8, 2025

Deer Park