January
Car Talk begins on KPBX in January.
February
South Africa legalizes ANC, frees Nelson Mandela after 27 years in prison.
May
Marian McPartland comes to Spokane Public Radio.
June
First Hoopfest held in Spokane.
July
July 5 - For seven consecutive Thursdays, KPBX broadcasts one-hour documentaries: The Gorbachev Revolution: Promises and Perils.
August
Aug 2 - Iraq invades Kuwait.
Fall
The classic Bob and Ray show returns.
Spokane Symphony performances are broadcast at 8:00 pm on Tuesdays.

October
Oct 3 - German reunification concludes.
National Telecommunications and Information Administration (part of U.S. Department of Commerce) agree to pay 75% of the cost of setting up three new low power translators to help serve parts of north-central Washington. Another translator is being installed to serve Bonners Ferry, ID, thanks to the North Idaho Foundation’s grant assistance.
Linda Stowe is welcomed as the new Business Manager.
November
Doug Nadvornik arrives in the newsroom to become newsdirector, having worked as Morning Edition host from 1985-1987.
December
“Translator Project Profile” Sandpoint ID to Creston BC.