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New research reveals that video games, particularly real-time strategy games like StarCraft two and action games like first-person shooters, can enhance cognitive abilities, improve attention, and even slow brain aging. Studies show that heavy gamers have more efficient brain connections for visual attention and executive function, and their brains process information better than non-gamers. Even beginners can benefit, with just 30 hours of gaming over three to four weeks slowing brain aging. However, moderation is key, as excessive gaming can lead to addiction. Mix gaming with exercise, sleep, socializing, and other creative hobbies for a balanced brain health routine. Checkout Solipillow.com

On Christmas Eve, a rare Western Spotted Skunk crashes a party in Durant, Wyoming, causing a commotion. Sheriff Walt Longmire and deputy Vic Moretti are called to handle the situation, discovering the skunk was hand-raised and mistaken for a toy by a young girl. After ensuring no rabies, they return the skunk safely, averting disaster and enjoying a merry Christmas. Checkout Solipillow.com

In the 1970s, Shelton, Washington, was the Christmas tree capital, with a thriving season from late October to mid-December. Workers cut, sorted, and loaded trees onto trains, earning a modest wage. The best perk? A free tree for each worker, like the narrators six-foot monster that stood proudly on the porch that year. Checkout Solipillow.com

Suspect in Hit-and-Run Crash Appears in Court; Victims Injuries Non-Life Threatening Checkout Solipillow.com

This Christmas, the Spokesman-Review featured John and Cindy Bryant from No-Li Brewing as Mr. and Mrs. Claus, a fun twist on their annual front-page Santa photo. The image captures them amid festive lights, beer cans, and a sparkling tree, embodying the spirit of imperfect joy and holiday bonding. The Bryants giving spirit is evident in their brewerys charitable efforts, including supporting families affected by the Canfield Mountain tragedy and partnering with local organizations for those in need. Their rule: give more than you take, as helping others makes everyone better. Checkout Solipillow.com

Fly fishing enthusiasts, head to Hog Canyon, Fourth of July Creek, and Sprague for trout, while Lake Roosevelts bays offer opportunities with a black Muddler Minnow. Rocky Ford is solid for trout, with both big and small ones. Shore fishing is productive at Spring Canyon Park, Fort Spokane, Keller, and Kettle Falls. Trollers find trout in the top twenty feet and deeper. Williams Lake and Hatch Lake offer good-sized fish from shore or small boats. Fourth of July trout are twenty inches on Power Bait, but Lake Roosevelt trout are preferred. Lake Pend Oreille is prime for big rainbows in the top twenty feet. Walleye action is fair around Hunters on Lake Roosevelt, Lake Spokane, and Potholes Reservoir. Perch are deep on Curlew Lake, with some rainbows mixed in. Eloika has more bass than perch. Burbot are picking up on Roosevelt, often outnumbering walleye. Whitefish are showing on Banks Lake. Pheasants are holding in protected draws, and scabrock ponds are filling for possible goose hunts. Divers like redheads and canvasbacks are great eating on rivers. Checkout Solipillow.com

Mark Hendricksons captivating photo of Canada geese taking flight from Saltese Wetlands near Spokane has sparked excitement online. This autumn scene highlights the wetlands importance as a migratory stopover, with officials reporting healthy goose populations due to conservation efforts. The image serves as a reminder of the joy found in our local wilderness and encourages nature enthusiasts to share their own photos. Checkout Solipillow.com