Good morning, Spokane Valley.

Spokane Valley Fire Department’s swiftwater rescue team, led by Captain Ben Riddle, received a call at 3:00 p.m. on Dec.

23 and mobilized to Mount Vernon by 7:00 p.m., working 14-hour shifts to assist residents amid rising floodwaters & secure local support.

Avista announced in its corporate responsibility report that it will exit Colstrip Units 3 & 4 so it no longer uses coal power, complying with Washington law.

Ownership of the 222 MW plant will transfer to NorthWestern Energy beginning Dec. 31.

Richard D. Stone, a 74-year-old man who went missing on Monday, Dec.

22, was found safe — he will be medically evaluated as a precaution — according to the sheriff's office.

UW Medicine and Spokane Regional Health District report that a new ICD-10 code (R11.16) is now used to track cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, a condition causing severe vomiting soon after cannabis use.

Clinicians say stopping cannabis can help symptoms fade within 24 hours.

Spokane Regional Health District warned families on Tuesday, Dec.

23 about counterfeit toys that may lack proper safety testing as holiday shopping picks up. Officials urged parents to shop from trusted sources + check for UL marks on electrical toys.

A study published in Pediatrics found that even occasional weed use affected teen school performance and emotional health.

Researchers noted increased risks for skipping classes, mood swings, and other issues — they advise parents to watch for changes.

Kitara Johnson-Jones has launched Gabriel’s Challenge with a NorthTown Mall kiosk that offers free addiction resources, overdose-reversal drugs and local treatment information for Spokane youth.

The nonprofit will hold educational panels and workshops to address gaps in care — uniting community groups to improve access.

A local guide highlights 13 fresh Christmas meal ideas beyond turkey, including Spinach Stuffed Chicken and Cream of Mushroom Green Bean Casserole — festive options for holiday dinners and quiet gatherings in the community.