Good morning, Spokane Valley.

Spokane County Fire District 4 is partnering with Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to collect new, unwrapped toys for local families in need of Christmas gifts + the drive runs at all staffed stations until December 15, with donations accepted during regular hours.

New Jersey-based PRISM Vision Group has acquired Spokane Eye Clinic to expand its network in the Northwest.

The clinic—founded in 1955 with 27 specialists at four locations—said the acquisition will support growth in patient-centered eye care.

Reusable plastic bags in Washington will cost 12 cents on New Year’s Day, up from eight cents since 2020—lawmakers set the change to cut plastic waste by encouraging reusable bags.

Research from WSU found shops handed out 50% fewer bags but used 17% more plastic by weight because the new bags are thicker.

Trader Joe's will soon open in Spokane Valley at the former Shopko on East Sprague Avenue—a project concluding a decade-long search for a natural grocer that is expected to boost local economic growth.

Community and Economic Development Director Mike Basinger said the new store will attract additional businesses to the area.

Spokane Valley Tech hosted a STEM camp that benefited high schoolers and younger students — high school students led hands-on activities and raised funds for student groups.

Future camps will be announced — showing the school’s commitment to boosting local STEM skills.

Spokane Regional Emergency Communications will begin testing an AI tool today to sort non-emergency calls and keep emergency lines open.

The system will understand English and Spanish and will be fully deployed by the end of the year.

Spokane County allocated $100,000 from its Housing and Community Development Fund to Second Harvest—an effort to support local families facing food insecurity during the holiday season.

County officials announced the funding on November 17th and urged other local governments to match the contribution while encouraging donations and volunteerism.

A 2020 Gallup poll shows many Americans cut back on meat for health reasons, which has led fast food chains to offer meatless items like the Impossible Whopper and plant-based breakfast sandwiches.

This Thanksgiving, Spokane Valley families may try recipes such as mashed potatoes with veggie gravy, roasted sweet potatoes with mini marshmallows, baked brie in puff pastry and a viral macaroni and cheese recipe using cavatappi pasta—offering fresh options for their holiday meal.

Spokane's real estate market shows potential as interest rates trend downward, giving buyers a chance to find affordable homes while sufficient inventory exists.

Experts said that once the market heats up, sellers may not offer as many concessions & buyers should get pre-approved to be ready.

Python for Scientists Training Class

N/A — Mon to Fri — Newcastle Training Centers Spokane — $2250 — Learn essential Python programming skills tailored for scientific applications.