Bloglander

ON INLANDER.COM 

• A federal judge dismissed former police Chief Frank Straub's claims that his due process rights were violated when he was canned by the city. There's some debate over whether Straub was fired or resigned. Judge Thomas relied on a signed letter of resignation from Straub for his ruling. Straub's attorney said she plans to appeal.

• Here it is. Everything you could ever want to do this summer. THE SUMMER GUIDE!

• Read what Spokane is reading this summer. For the 15th year, the Lilac City suggests some summertime literature: The Tsar of Love and Techno, by Anthony Marra. 

IN OTHER NEWS: 

• An independent forensic investigator says Spokane Valley teen Ryan Holyk was clearly hit by Deputy Joe Bodman's police vehicle in 2014. His findings are in direct contradiction to four previous investigations including two by law enforcement. (Spokesman-Review)

• Sen. Christopher Murphy (D-Conn.) seized control of the Senate floor Wednesday, demanding majority leader Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Kent.) hold votes on amendments to an annual appropriations bill seeking to tighten guns laws. Holding the votes are typically a "matter of routine." McConnell finally agreed after a 15-hour filibuster.

Watch highlights from the filibuster below: 

• A female cyclist in North Spokane was killed when she lost control of her bike and was struck by a pickup truck. The woman's name and age have not yet been released. According to news reports, the driver was not intoxicated and is cooperating with law enforcement. The driver is not facing criminal charges at this point. (KREM)

• Authorities recovered the body of a two-year-old boy who was dragged into a man-made lake by an alligator. The boy is deceased. Authorities are searching for the alligator. 

• Did Jesus have a wife?!?