Good morning, Spokane Valley.

On August 1, the Old Trails Fire jumped the Spokane River and swept through neighborhoods, leaving the Hyams family without their home.

They are now renting a house & planning to rebuild while neighbors stay connected to share repair tips.

Lawyer Matthew Albrecht said e-motos disguised as e-bikes create safety issues on local trails — problems not seen with traditional e-bikes.

New law on June 11 clarified e-bike classes, and a state task force will study e-motos after recent incidents raised concerns among park officials and law enforcement.

Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington will host a drive-thru backpack giveaway on Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at St. Anne’s Children/Family Center (25 E.

Fifth Ave) to help students impacted by the Spokane Complex fires get school supplies, hygiene items and other essentials.

Inland Journal aired a broadcast on Aug.

13 featuring tech leaders Bill Kalivas + Grant Erickson, who explored how AI evolved and debated if businesses should adopt the technology now, wait, or take a balanced approach.

The owners of Rancho Chico restaurants agreed to pay $750,000 in back wages, liquidated damages, and a fine after federal officials found they violated wage laws at their Spokane, Colville, and Omak locations in a settlement signed (April 10).

Smoke has mostly cleared in Spokane as experts warn that health risks from the Spokane Complex fires may linger for months.

The health district urges residents to reduce smoke exposure and follow online guidelines while cleanup continues in the area.

Residents returning to homes in fire-affected areas are learning toxins such as lead remain even when buildings did not burn.

Public health experts and cleanup crews are advising careful inspections and testing before families move back (especially near local schools) to ensure safety.

Cline's Heating and Air is offering free air conditioning inspections for residents near fire-damaged homes—checking for smoke, soot, and ash contamination while testing indoor air quality.

The company, led by Treasure Boston, has also collected gift cards and will donate trucks to those who lost vehicles.

At ONE Spokane Stadium on Thursday, Eastern Washington tested its revised rushing attack as five running backs gained 153 yards on 32 carries.

The team will scrimmage again in Cheney on Aug. 21 before opening the regular season on Aug. 29.