Good morning, Spokane Valley.

The Washington Employment Security Department released November unemployment data showing Spokane County's rate near 4.5% compared with 3.4% in Asotin and Benton and 6% or above in other counties.

The report noted job gains in education and health services—offsetting losses in manufacturing, wholesale trade and construction.

Lawmakers will consider Senate Bill 5828 to restore financial aid cuts for students at independent colleges in the 2026 session.

The bill aims to help low-income students, including those at Whitworth (who lost up to half of their aid last year), continue their education.

Fire crews and the city cleared 212 acres since October 2025 to lower fire risk amid dry winter conditions along South Hill Bluff.

The Parks and Recreation Department worked with Friends of the Bluff on Tuesday to remove dead trees and brush and help balance wildfire risk and forest health for future generations.

Hospitals in Spokane Valley have put visitor restrictions in place as flu cases surge today; administrators say the measures aim to protect patients and staff (families are urged to check updated guidelines).

Gonzaga’s women’s basketball team will face the revamped San Francisco Dons on Thursday after last season’s 23-year first sweep by the Dons (Gonzaga 12-6, San Francisco 10-6).

Coach Lisa Fortier said the team plans to focus on strategy and build on past matchups.

In Tuesday's Greater Spokane League basketball games, Central Valley beat Mt- Spokane 56-51 behind Olivia Patshkowski's 25 points, and Ferris edged Mead 68-51 with Cole Floyd adding 20 points and 11 rebounds.

Wins also belonged to Deer Park, Lewis and Clark, and Pullman.

Spokane Chiefs coach Brad Lauer returned to a reshaped team after trades brought in Logan Wormald, Dominik Petr, Tyus Sparks, and Marek Howell while a key leader left.

The team — with a near .500 record — will face conference leader Everett on Friday as it pushes for playoffs.