Good morning, Spokane Valley.

The Spokane Valley Mall’s Giving Machine ended Thursday, Jan.

1, after donors purchased over 7,000 items for local and global charities (including Teen and Kid Closet, Second Harvest, and Vanessa Behan). It was one of only 126 such machines worldwide.

Rob Rowe began collecting vintage Hamm’s beer memorabilia after a 2018 Seattle reunion blind taste test and now scours antique shops and estate sales for rare items, including moving neon signs and collectible barware (an homage to the brand’s classic 'land of sky-blue waters' legacy).

Washington law now lets drivers add their blood type to their license for a $2 fee—it went into effect on Jan.

1. Residents must bring documentation from a medical provider to the DMV to help speed up emergency care.

Spokane Regional Emergency Communications shared New Year’s safety tips for 911 call efficiency.

They advised residents to be aware of their location details, stay on the line, and call 911 only in emergencies (to help first responders reach them faster).

Washington passed a law that requires healthcare providers to investigate workplace violence incidents and update safety plans annually — a measure signed by Governor Ferguson with bipartisan support to better protect health workers.

After holiday decorations come down, National Houseplant Appreciation Day on Jan.

10 gives residents a chance to welcome houseplants that renew indoor spaces and lift moods as winter continues; simple care routines bring a lasting, calming touch to homes.

Registration is open for the 50th Bloomsday Run on Sunday, May 3 in Spokane; organizers aim to attract 50,000 participants and offer an early registration giveaway (ASICS shoes) while supporting Riverside State Park Foundation.