Inlander 04/11/2024

The world of words

Get Lit! returns April 11-14 for a weekend of poetry, readings, workshops and more! Page 14

Introducing the Clearly Cash Back™ card from Washington Trust Bank. It’s the right card for small businesses because it has no limits and no blackout dates. Imagine that. A card that gives you 1.5% cash back on purchases. With the Clearly Cash Back™ card, all restrictions are restricted. Learn more at watrust.com/clearlycashback Of course

EDITOR’S NOTE

The Inlander brought me to Spokane in 2008.

I was a young journalist moving to a city I’d never seen before for a news writing position at an urban altweekly. Dream job. I fell for the city, and my girlfriend and I bought a house, got married, made a lot of friends and gallivanted around the world — but we always called Spokane home

Now, as we prepare to leave the city, the Inlander is bidding me farewell. I’m an older journalist now, but still believe in the mission of newspapers: to reach a wide audience with well-told, impor tant stories, done with integrity and fairness. I’ve learned so much over the years from this paper, its publisher Ted McGregor and the many people I’ve worked with — from the people I met way back when (many who I still call friends) to the great crew that remains as I depart.

Among them, Chey Scott has been a stalwart here and will continue to be, now as the editor. I have overwhelming confidence that she will lead the paper to even greater heights. And Samantha Wohlfeil, who is taking the reins of the news section. With their experience and eyes for detail, Chey and Sam will help keep alive the Inlander’s tradition of strong, independent journalism. It’s with a heavy heart that I leave the editorial team I’ve grown so fond of: Nate, Maddie, Colton, Eliza, Seth, Young, Erick and Chris, but also the wonderful people in advertising, production, operations and circulation. As for me, I’m off to the Seattle Times for yet another dream job. But I’ll keep reading the Inlander, just like you, to see what this extraordinary paper does next.

— NICHOLAS DESHAIS, editor

STAFF DIRECTORY PHONE: 509-325-0634

Ted S. McGregor Jr. (tedm@inlander.com) PUBLISHER

Jer McGregor (x224) GENERAL MANAGER EDITORIAL

Nicholas Deshais (x239) EDITOR

Chey Scott (x225) ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

Seth Sommerfeld (x250) MUSIC & SCREEN EDITOR

Samantha Wohlfeil (x234) BREAKING NEWS EDITOR

Madison Pearson (x218) LISTINGS EDITOR, DIGITAL LEAD

Eliza Billingham (x222) Colton Rasanen (x263)

Nate Sanford (x282) STAFF WRITERS

Chris Frisella COPY CHIEF

Young Kwak, Erick Doxey PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lucy Klebeck INTERNS

Josh Bell, Anthony Gill, MaryAnn Johanson, Will Maupin, Carrie Shriver CONTRIBUTORS

Anne McGregor INLANDER HEALTH & HOME EDITOR ADVERTISING

Tamara McGregor (x233) ADVERTISING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Carolyn Padgham (x214), Kristi Gotzian (x215), Autumn Potts (x251), Claire Price (x217) SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Tracy Menasco (x260), Stephanie Grinols (x216), Skip Mitchell (x247), Meghan Fitzgerald (x241) ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES PRODUCTION

Ali Blackwood (x228) PRODUCTION TEAM MANAGER, CREATIVE, DIGITAL & MARKETING

Tom Stover (x265) PRINT PRODUCTION & IT MANAGER

Derrick King (x238) SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER, EDITORIAL DESIGN LEAD

Leslie Douglas (x231) GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Colleen Bell-Craig (x212), Raja Bejjani (x242) ADVERTISING ASSISTANTS OPERATIONS

Dee Ann Cook (x211) BUSINESS MANAGER

Kristin Wagner (x210) ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE CIRCULATION

Frank DeCaro (x226) CIRCULATION MANAGER

Travis Beck (x237) CIRCULATION SUPERVISOR

IF YOU COULD WRITE ANYTHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

BENNETT HARTGRAVE

I have written a few short stories in the past. So I think it might be interesting to try and write a longer-form piece in my own style but in a new form that I haven’t tried before.

How would you describe your writing style? Fantastical and surreal in a very internal way.

SUNNY HANSEN

I’m not a writer, but I suppose something in an essay format. I like analyzing gender and queer themes in a historical sense, so maybe something like that.

Is there a specific historical event? Maybe not necessarily events, but I like analyzing really old literature and finding certain themes in there, like mythologies.

JOE HAEGER

I would want to write something very entertaining and grotesque — in a way that David Cronenberg does movies. Probably something that would make people actually vomit.

JACOB RICKMAN

I would like to do a cookbook because I would be getting more into cooking.

Is there a theme to this cookbook? Thai-fusion.

LIZ JACOBS

I feel like a coming-of-age fantasy book, something like Brandon Sanderson. That was sort of what I loved to read while growing up.

4/7/24,

Discover the benefi ts of Customized Medications Compounded for you and Your Pets

Our staff is expertly trained & certifi ed in prescription compounding and we are ready to serve you in our state of the art facility at our new location at 1802 N Monroe St.

• Custom Compounding for People & Pets

• Flavor & Dosage Form options for veterinary prescriptions

• Bio-Identical Hormones

• Low-Dose Naltrexone

• Hormone Consultations

• Customized Preservative-Free, Dye-Free and Allergen-Free Products

• Nutrition Counseling for Wellness, Weight Loss & Athletic Performance

• Professional Grade Supplements Including: Thorne, Ortho Molecular, Metagenics, Design for Health, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics

• Pharmacist formulated CBD

• Locally owned

A Virtuous Transit Cycle

By providing free fare, Spokane

Transit can increase ridership and revenue, and convince more people to leave the car at home

BY ANTHONY GILL

Over the past several months, a debate has been brewing among Spokane Transit Authority board members and transit advocates about offering free rides during the 50th anniversary celebration for Expo ’74.

To distill the debate, the city of Spokane’s members on the transit board — Council Presi-

dent Betsy Wilkerson and Council members Kitty Klitzke, Paul Dillon and Zack Zappone — and Mayor Lisa Brown say a fare-free period would encourage ridership, make it easier to get downtown for the festivities and possibly introduce new riders to a system that has seen a lot of change and improvement in recent years. Board members from other communities don’t seem to be convinced, concerned about revenue loss, labor issues and possibly some sense that a limited fare-free period would increase calls for permanent zero-fare service. The CIty Line has provided 500,000 rides in its first nine months of service.

Indeed, in 2024, Spokane Transit expects about $7.5 million in farebox revenue. That’s not nothing — it’s 10% of expected expenses from fixed-route service, meaning losing all of that revenue would likely cause service cuts of some kind. (It’s also not as much as you might expect from an agency with $143 million in expected total revenue from all sources.)

But what if the solution isn’t to make transit fare-free — but to make it fare-prepaid?

Consider that in 2022, when Washington lawmakers passed the Move Ahead Washington transportation package, which included a new program guaranteeing free fares statewide for kids under 18. Smartly, legislators actually funded the program by establishing a Transit Support Grant for local agencies. Everyone under age 18 — more than 20% of Washington’s population — can ride Spokane Transit completely free, the agency actually receives more revenue than when kids had to pay and much of Spokane’s ridership growth over the past couple years has come from youth.

Similarly, in 1991, the University of Washington began providing fully paid transit passes for all students through their mandatory campus fees. These universal passes were wildly popu lar, increasing ridership and creating a new revenue stream for agencies. Soon the county began to work with major employers; local governments were among the first to sign on, providing their employees with universal passes, followed by school districts and hospitals. With traffic increasing in the early 2000s and 2010s, private employers signed up, billing it as a way to ensure more predictable commutes for their employees.

Now, a transit pass is one of the most coveted workplace benefits, and fully 50% of all trips on King County Metro are made using an employer-sponsored pass that the rider didn’t pay for. Better yet, because these fare-paid products actually increase revenue for the transit agencies, they can provide more service, enticing more people to switch to transit.

And suddenly a virtuous cycle is born.

What could our transit system, our commutes and our city look like if we took a similar approach and didn’t stop until everyone had a fully paid Connect Card?

We already have the model!

STA offers some employer-paid products, and if you’re an EWU student or faculty or staff member, you can ride the bus for free with your EagleCard. Better yet, workers and residents in Kendall Yards can get a free pass. But compared to other cities, our efforts in this space have been relatively light.

Let’s provide more incentives to employers to offer universal passes — say, a period during which employers can receive free or even half-off the normal rate. If they ultimately sign up, the incentive will pay for itself. STA and the Downtown Spokane Partnership could simply host a recruitment drive; many employers don’t even know that universal passes are an option.

Let’s offer fully paid fares for more populations beyond kids — such as seniors or low-income people — and explore innovative solutions to pay for the service. For example, perhaps human services funding could be utilized to backfill lost STA revenue.

And then let’s get even more creative. Let’s offer incentives for property managers to provide universal transit passes to apartment residents. And what if we required large employees (say, those with more than 250 employees) to offer subsidized transit to their workers? With enough carrots, the “stick” approach might become more tenable.

If we do it right, the benefits to such a push for universal passes would be huge — more transit riders, less traffic, more transit service and more, not less revenue for STA.

So while a promotional period with fare-free service could be a great entrée to the system for casual riders, I’d argue a long-term future with fare-prepaid service would be even better. n

Anthony Gill is an economic development professional and writer of Spokane Rising, a blog about ways to make our city a better place to live.

EXTREMISM

On Patrol

An anti-government group from Arizona arrives in Spokane looking to ‘rescue’ trafficking victims and bring vigilante justice to purported perpetrators

BY NATE SANFORD

Members of a militia group called Veterans On Patrol have spent recent weeks conducting “operations” in Spokane — searching the streets near homeless shelters looking for people they think are victims or perpetrators of human trafficking.

The group has been distributing fliers to homeless people with a phone number and instructions to call Veterans On Patrol instead of the police if they suspect trafficking is occurring.

“A consequence absent of law enforcement will be provided to the predator(s) and a solution absent of CPS [Child Protective Services] will be provided to the child victims,” the fliers say.

In an alert sent to Spokane homeless service providers last month, the Western States Center, a civil rights organization that monitors extremism, described Veterans On Patrol as an anti-government “paramilitary organization” and a “conspiracy-fueled bigoted organization that openly aligns itself with white nationalists.”

The group has since visited several homeless shelters in Spokane — in one instance prompting staff to call Crime Check and put their building on lockdown.

“We have had several calls from community organizations about their presence at various locations, handing out fliers and asking questions about trafficking,” says Julie Humphreys, a spokesperson for the Spokane Police Department. “We do not have evidence of any criminal activity by the group.”

Veterans On Patrol is based in Arizona. Michael “Lewis Arthur” Meyer, the leader of the group, arrived in Washington earlier this year and has been attempting to

establish a base of operations in the Inland Northwest.

In an interview with the Inlander, Arthur, as he prefers to go by, denies that Veterans On Patrol is a militia. But he does use the word when referring to other groups he says they are working with — namely the Proud Boys, Three Percenters and “One Percenters,” a broad term he uses to refer to various motorcycle gangs.

The Anti-Defamation League describes the Proud Boys, which played a major role in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, as a “right-wing extremist group with a violent agenda,” and the Three Percenters as a “major part of the broader anti-government militia movement.”

The Spokane Proud Boys are being “reassembled under a gentleman named .50 Cal,” Arthur says.

The claim is hard to verify, but Veterans On Patrol does have a well-documented history of collaborating with individual Proud Boys, says Freddy Cruz, a researcher with the Western States Center who has monitored Veterans On Patrol for years.

Arthur says Veterans On Patrol is working with the Proud Boys and other local militias to establish the “Washington State Coalition for Children,” which will conduct operations in the Inland Northwest and operate a hotline people can call to receive a response without involving law enforcement.

“Spokane is an ideal central location,” Arthur says.

GOING VIRAL

Arthur founded Veterans On Patrol in 2015. He is not a veteran.

The group started with the stated goal of veteran sui-

cide prevention, but later evolved to focus on immigration and what its members see as preventing child trafficking, Cruz says.

In 2018, Arthur discovered an abandoned homeless camp in Tucson, Arizona, that he believed was part of a massive sex trafficking network. Police didn’t find any evidence to support this, but that didn’t stop Arthur’s story — which seized on QAnon-style conspiracy narratives about an elite cabal of satan-worshiping pedophiles — from going viral.

Arthur says he isn’t a QAnon adherent, but he does espouse related conspiracies involving chemtrails and satanic pedophiles who supposedly harvest adrenochrome from children’s blood. He has also accused various law enforcement agencies and nonprofits of aiding traffickers.

Arthur’s viral “discovery” drew a wave of recruits and donations to Veterans On Patrol. Volunteers from across the country traveled to Arizona to join the group as they trained with firearms in the desert and conducted operations seeking to intercept people they suspected were traffickers and victims at the U.S. border.

“We’ve seen the organization engage in a number of questionable activities that should get the attention of law enforcement,” Cruz says.

In Arizona, Veterans On Patrol members have harassed aid workers, chased people through the desert and physically detained migrants, Cruz says. The operations were influential.

“Individuals started copying and mimicking a lot of their procedures,” Cruz says. “Over the years, we’ve just seen other groups sort of take on a lot of the work that VOP established.”

The group’s activities at the border have quieted in recent years. Arthur has a warrant out in Arizona after skipping out on his sentencing for destroying humanitarian water stations set up for migrants, the Arizona Daily Star reported.

Arthur’s second-in-command is Shawna Martin, who goes by Butterfly.

Martin is based in the Inland Northwest, and frequently travels back and forth to Arizona to help Veterans On Patrol operations, Cruz says. She is associated with the Panhandle Patriots motorcycle club in Idaho.

“Lewis Arthur,” center, has been recruiting people in Spokane for what has been described as his “paramilitary organization.” NATE SANFORD PHOTO/TELEGRAM IMAGES

Back-to-back paydays are coming your way.

Arthur and Martin have a large network of followers who are willing to donate money and let them use their homes as safe houses, Cruz says.

“Human trafficking is a real issue,” Cruz says. “Not only are they distracting from the issue, they’re also diverting resources that can be used to actually help.”

Humphreys, with Spokane police, says people with knowledge or concern about trafficking are encouraged to call law enforcement.

FAILED BASE OF OPERATIONS

In February this year, Arthur appeared in Washtucna — a small town of about 200 people an hourand-a-half southwest of Spokane.

Arthur told Washtucna’s Town Council that a local property owner had agreed to let his group establish a compound to be used as a base to conduct anti-trafficking operations across the Inland Northwest, according to reporting from Dominick Bonny, an independent journalist.

“You’ll see guys with tactical equipment,” Arthur said in a video of the Town Council meeting. “They’ll load up with me to go to locations where children have been trafficked to in various parts of the Northwest sector of the United States.”

The group abandoned the plan shortly after the meeting, due to backlash from residents.

Dale Wagner, the sheriff of Adams County, wrote on Facebook in early March that he had resolved the situation with the property owner.

“The individuals have apparently gone to Spokane as far as we are aware,” Wagner wrote. “If they or others come, we need to address it in a similar fashion.”

Arthur arrived in Spokane shortly after. He and his wife are staying in the backyard of someone who has a leadership position in Spokane’s neighborhood council system and knows Arthur through mutual associates. Reached by phone, the person said they support Arthur’s cause, but they’re worried about publicly associating with him and didn’t want to comment on the record.

LOCAL GROUPS

Veterans On Patrol has approached a number of local organizations in an attempt to work with them, including Helping Captives, a Christian antitrafficking organization based in Spokane Valley that recently announced plans to convert the Deja Vu strip club into its headquarters.

Helping Captives CEO Caleb Altmeyer says Arthur showed up at his office and told him he was tracking kids from the border. Altmeyer says he doesn’t know much about Arthur’s organization but gave Arthur a stack of Helping Captives business cards to distribute in case it was helpful.

“There’s no official partnership or anything,” Altmeyer says.

Veterans On Patrol also visited Crosswalk, an emergency shelter for runaway and homeless youth in downtown Spokane that is run by Volunteers of America.

Fawn Schott, the CEO of VOA Eastern Washington, says several Veterans On Patrol members entered the building in late March with doughnuts and dropped off pamphlets.

“My staff did a fantastic job,” Schott says. “They were concerned about it and called Crime Check immediately.”

After doing more research on the group and

learning that Crosswalk was on the list of organizations being targeted, Schott says staff put the building on lockdown — not allowing any visitors to enter.

Staff are still on high alert, Schott says.

“We have to be extra cautious,” Schott says. “They’re creating a false narrative that’s not even true and taking resources away from young people that need this real support.”

GUNS OUT

Recent photos taken in Spokane show Arthur and his wife with at least two men who appear to be associated with Veterans On Patrol. He says he’s recruited several others to join the organization while in Spokane.

“They’ll try to prey on vulnerable communities, they’ll try to recruit people that are down on their luck,” says Cruz, with the Western States Center.

Arthur says he plans to leave Spokane for Idaho soon (he won’t say exactly where) to establish a base. He says Martin and the new recruits will stay in Spokane to continue helping with the Washington State Coalition for Children’s trafficking hotline.

“It’ll grow,” Arthur says. “This will be our central hub, as long as we continue to be welcome here.”

The recent Veterans On Patrol work in Spokane was promoted as “Operation Limp Pimp” in the group’s Telegram channel, which has nearly 7,000 members. One message authorized a “full kit” (meaning body armor and guns) for the operation.

Arthur says a “full kit” authorization means volunteers are allowed to “go into the community with their ARs, with their plate carriers, with spare mags … basically like they’re going onto a battlefield for war. So when we authorize that, they’re allowed to bring out their toys.”

But Arthur says volunteers chose not to bring guns for Operation Limp Pimp. Photos posted on Telegram appear to confirm this.

“That was unique, we gave them the opportunity, but [they didn’t],” Arthur says.

When asked what will happen if his coalition finds someone they think is a trafficker, Arthur says his only goal is rescuing children, and that he doesn’t hurt people.

“I’m going to hand those guys over to a different coalition,” Arthur says. “That coalition is there to deal with the community trash.”

Arthur declines to say what the other coalition is called, or explain what kind of violence that group might dole out.

“You’ll never hear a name for it, you’ll never hear anyone say they’re on it,” Arthur says.

VIGILANTE INVESTIGATION

On Monday, April 1, the group’s new trafficking hotline received its first call. The caller said he heard a woman’s screams coming from an apartment building in Spokane’s West Central neighborhood.

“I feel like there’s some weird f—ing shit going on here, some trafficking of children,” the caller said in a recording posted on Telegram.

“I’ll be there to check it out,” Arthur replied. “Don’t come out or do anything or let people know you called us.”

Fifteen minutes later, Arthur was standing

in the second-floor stairwell of the apartment building, dressed in military-style camo. He tried knocking on the door where screaming had been reported, but he didn’t get an answer. He started livestreaming on YouTube after learning that someone called the cops before he arrived.

“I told you guys, don’t call the cops, call the number on the flier,” Arthur says in the video.

The man who called the hotline, at one point in the video referred to as Devin, is wandering around outside, yelling aggressively about human trafficking and trying to round up neighbors. The whole thing is causing a scene and provoking confrontations with other residents.

At several points in the video, Arthur acknowledges that Devin appears to be “out of his mind” on drugs. He remembers meeting Devin and handing him a flier with the hotline number during Operation Limp Pimp the night before.

Someone eventually emerges from the apartment where screaming was reported and invites Arthur to search the unit. Arthur goes inside and doesn’t find anything out of the ordinary. No woman. No screaming. No one else in the unit.

As Arthur prepares to leave, a different neighbor angrily confronts him about the way he approached her when he first arrived, before he started recording.

“You were aggressive,” the neighbor says.

“That’s because someone called and said a woman was screaming being raped and murdered,” Arthur says. “What am I supposed to do? Come in here and be calm? I was pretty calm.”

The neighbor also confronts Devin, who is still yelling aggressively.

“The screaming in your head was the meth in your veins,” she says.

Police eventually arrive and escort Devin away in handcuffs.

One resident asks police to trespass Arthur from the property, but he leaves voluntarily. Just before doing so, he baselessly speculates that a different neighbor he interrogated earlier is likely a pedophile.

“I know when I’m dealing with pedophiles,” Arthur tells one resident. “So if you see boys going in there, he likes little boys.”

Arthur says the incident was just the first test of the hotline.

“That was a learning curve for us,” Arthur says.

RECRUITING

Within a week, Arthur and his wife are at the Greyhound bus station off First Avenue. It’s a sunny Sunday morning, and Arthur has posters with photos of migrant children that he and other Veterans On Patrol members previously encountered at the southern border. He thinks the children are somewhere in Washington.

“When children cross, they’ll tell you the states that they’re generally going to,” Arthur says.

As passengers depart a bus, Arthur walks up to each one, showing them the photos and asking if they’ve seen the children. They haven’t. He gives them a card and tells them to call if they see the kids.

“We’re trying to verify their safety,” Arthur says. “We’re recruiting any of the men that want to help us look for these kids.”

Arthur gives an associate’s contact info to one woman who says she’s homeless and hungry. He strikes up a conversation with a man named Robert, who says he’s a veteran of the 5th Marine Expeditionary Brigade.

“I got PTSD,” Robert says. “A lot of us got a raw deal. I got a bag full of medication.”

Robert is homeless and making his way to Seattle. Arthur offers to help him find a place to stay in Spokane, and Robert says he’ll take him up on the offer. They exchange numbers.

Later, Arthur says he hopes Robert will stay and help the Coalition’s search for kids in Spokane.

“He’s someone that can move through the streets that’ll have clear eyes… He’s from the drug addict past life. He has no purpose, and that in itself is going to be helpful for the homeless,” Arthur says. “I don’t think he’s done as much evil as I have, and God loves me and helps me, so he’s going to be great.” n

Studying Students

Five fast facts from Washington’s Healthy Youth Survey

BY COLTON RASANEN

Every two years, students across Washington state are asked to complete a survey that asks more than 200 questions about mental health, substance use and their home life. The biennial Healthy Youth Survey has been administered since 2002 and offers a closer look into the lives of students.

The survey is administered and tracked by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

“OSPI uses results from the Healthy Youth Survey to make data-driven programmatic changes, apply for local and federal grants to support the work of school districts, and to inform our proposals to the state Legislature,” OSPI spokesperson Katy Payne says by email. “Local school districts use the results to inform school-wide practices and curriculum.”

Students in sixth, eighth, tenth and twelfth grades are asked to fill out the survey, but that doesn’t mean that there will be data for each grade. For example, in Spokane County, less than 40% of the enrolled high school seniors filled out a survey in both 2021 and 2023, so their information was not included in the results.

Here are some statistics that stood out from the 2023 survey.

12,431

The total number of sixth, eighth and tenth grade students in Spokane County.

OSPI keeps data on student enrollment in each school district in the state. However, since school district boundaries can cross county lines, it can be complicated (but not impossible) to understand how many students are in a county.

Thanks to the Healthy Youth Survey, every two years we get a peek into precisely how many students — within specific grade levels — are in the county.

Out of the more than 50,000 students that are enrolled in the county, 3,071 are sixth graders, 3,642 are eighth graders, and 5,718 are in tenth grade.

55%

Percent of enrolled sixth, eighth and tenth grade students in Spokane County who took the survey.

Since the survey is optional, not all of the enrolled students completed it. Additionally, some students may only fill out certain questions, so many of the data points include the number of students who answered.

A little more than half of Spokane County’s students in three of the grades targeted actually filled the survey out — 1,619 sixth graders, 2,193 eighth graders and 2,995 tenth graders.

According to the survey report, participation between 40% and 69% “may be representative of students in that grade.” For the results to be considered “likely representative of students in that grade,” there would need to be 70% or greater participation.

About 53% of the sixth grade students actually filled out the survey. Eighth grade students had the highest participation in the county at 60%. Only about 52% of students in tenth grade completed the survey.

Between the three grades, there were 128 surveys that were thrown out and considered invalid.

36.7%

Percent of sixth grade students who reported being bullied.

More students in all three grades reported being bullied since the last survey was administered in 2021. In 2023, the percentage of sixth graders reporting bullying was three points higher, and it was six points higher for eighth graders. The percentage of tenth graders reporting bullying was less than one point higher.

In sixth grade, 36.7% of students reported being bullied, while 29.6% of eighth graders and 17.9% of tenth graders reported it.

Still, four out of five students in each grade reported feeling safe in school, which closely mirrors the results from the 2021 survey.

21.9%

Percent of tenth grade students who reported trying marijuana at least once.

The survey asks students if they’ve ever used specific drugs and also if they’ve used those drugs in the past month. While just a sliver of students said that they’ve used drugs in the last month, many more admitted to trying them at least once.

More students reported trying drugs at least once in their life, increasing from about 17.5% of all surveyed students in 2021 to about 19.2% in 2023.

Older students also reported more usage, according to the survey results. The survey includes questions about alcohol, nicotine (cigarettes and vapes are separate questions), marijuana, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamines and any other illegal drugs. Of these, three of the most popular drugs Spokane students reported using were alcohol, vape pens and marijuana.

Of the 2,542 tenth grade students who answered the question, about 42% said they’ve tried alcohol, and 24% said they’d used vape pens. Nearly 22% said they’ve tried cannabis, up two percentage points from two years ago.

24.1%

Percent of sixth graders who reported seriously considering suicide.

A smaller percentage of students in the county reported thoughts of suicide than in the 2021 survey.

In 2021, 26.8% of sixth graders said “yes” when asked “Have you ever seriously thought about killing yourself?” That decreased to 24.1% in the most recent survey. The percentage of sixth graders who said they actually tried also dropped from 8.8% to 7.5%.

In the 2023 survey, 17.6% of eighth grade students said they had considered “attempting suicide” and 18.1% of tenth graders reported the same. Both grade levels saw a more than 3% decrease from the previous survey. About 15% of both eighth and tenth grade students also reported they had come up with an attempted suicide plan. n

coltonr@inlander.com

Featuring the complete film with Oscar®-winning composer John Williams’ musical score performed live to the film. Experience the scope and grandeur of this beloved film live in concert with the Spokane Symphony.

Beyond the Page

This year’s Get Lit! Festival offers more than three dozen events, from author readings to open mics, workshops with award-winning writers and even a live Dungeons & Dragons game highlighting the power of storytelling. While the following collection of highlights is but a snapshot of the activities to catch during the festival’s 26th run, a complete schedule with all the details can be accessed at getlitfestival.org.

PIE & WHISKEY

Thu, April 11 from 8-10 pm, $5 (21+), Washington Cracker Co. Building

A perennial favorite that always packs the room, Pie & Whiskey unites its featured writers under the theme of, well, pie and whiskey. Created by local writing juggernauts Sam Ligon and Kate Lebo (above), the event appropriately includes homemade pie and Dry Fly Distilling whiskey (or tea and coffee) for attendees to enjoy while listening to a dozen local writers read their flash fiction, nonfiction and poetry inspired by the event’s title — works guaranteed to spur laughter, tears and a whole range of emotions. The resulting 12 works are collected in a limited edition chapbook ($10) that have been locally printed and bound with a hand-stitched binding. Among this year’s featured readers is the Inlander’s own food writer, Eliza Billingham, alongside author Jess Walter, event creators Lebo and Ligon, and writers from near and far. A special Pie & Whiskey after-party follows from 10 to midnight at Hogwash Whiskey Den, also featuring two special festival author-inspired cocktails. (CS)

Get Lit! Festival 2024

WHEN: April 11-14; times and locations vary

TICKETS: A $25 Book Fair Pass provides access to Saturday’s Book Fair in the Montvale Event Center, as well as all events taking place there on April 13. Other ticketed events range from $25$50, and some events are free.

MORE: Purchase tickets, see the schedule, author bios and more at getlitfestival.org.

A roundup of highlights and must-attend events for Get Lit! 2024

BY CHEY SCOTT, MADISON PEARSON AND COLTON RASANEN

THE JOY OF WRITING ANIMALS

Fri, April 12 from 1-2 pm, free, Central Library

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to trade places with your furry friends? How might it feel to experience the joy of a singular swinging string or the curiosity of encountering each tree, fire hydrant and stop sign? While humans may never fully understand their pets’ emotions, they have the power to explore that emotional range through the written word. This panel conversation, composed of Jessica Gigot, Caitlin Scarano, Michelle Eames, Henrietta Goodman and Ryan Scariano, aims to teach writers of all genres to tap into that power in their own literary worlds. Even if folks don’t want to write animals into their future stories, this may be the perfect time to relax and write about your favorite alley cat or the marmots that you’ve heard so much about but have never seen. (CR)

A STRANGE BEAUTIFUL INW SPECIAL COLLECTIONS TOUR WITH CARLA CRUJIDO

Fri, April 12 from 2-3 pm, free, Central Library

Public libraries are a blessing to writers of all types, serving as nearly unlimited resources for research and inspiration. This event at Spokane Public Library’s Inland Northwest Special Collections inside the Central Library showcases a true treasure trove of information under the guidance of local author Carla Crujido. The collection’s vast local history archives played a vital role while Crujido wrote her debut short story collection, The Strange Beautiful, which centers on a cast of characters living in a historic apartment building on the lower South Hill between 1918 and 2022. The resulting collection weaves local history with fairytale-esque magical realism — a talking bear, living mannequin and tiny winged people. Crujido also created a self-guided, annotated walking tour of the many Spokane places in which her stories take place. (CS)

POETRY SALON

Fri, April 12 from 5-6 pm, free, Magic Lantern Theatre

When you learn about poetry in high school literature classes, you get the basics: Poe, Frost, Hughes, Whitman and Dickinson. But, you don’t really learn about the impact that poetry has had — and continues to have! — on the world at large. This annual salon is an opportunity to learn just that. This year, poets Luther Hughes (left), Katherine Gaffney, Henrietta Goodman, Jennifer Perrine and Vincent Rendoni sit down, discuss their craft and talk about just how powerful the art form can be. This year’s panel consists of poets with award-winning debut collections as well as seasoned poets with accolades galore. Walk away from this salon with a newfound or deepened respect for poetry and the writers who are excited to share it with the world. (MP)

ON OTHER CORRESPONDENCES

Fri, April 12 from 7-8 pm, free, Saranac Art Projects

A huge part of Get Lit! is the local collaborations that take place. This year, Get Lit! has partnered with Saranac Art Projects to create a unique art show that combines the work of local artists with the local (and not-so-local) authors that inspire them. Each artist involved in the show chose a writer to inspire the visual art they created for the exhibition. Mary Farrell chose Spokane writing icon Jess Walter, author of The Cold Millions, while artist Lena Lopez Schindler chose food writer Kate Lebo. Local graphic artist Seth Collier chose Kurt Vonnegut, whose writing pairs well with Collier’s angular, sci-fi-inspired digital art. Meanwhile, Josh Hobson tackles work inspired by author, theorist, educator and social critic bell hooks. This reception features a discussion with the artists as well as a short reading from Lebo. (MP)

HEADLINING EVENT: AN EVENING WITH CARMEN MARIA MACHADO

Sat, April 13 from 7-8:30 pm, $25, Bing Crosby Theater

Carmen Maria Machado is a name you’ll want to remember.

Years from now, you can say “I saw her at a small literary festival in Spokane,” when her books inevitably come to be recognized as classic literature that everyone should read and discuss. In many ways, Machado’s novels have already reached that status as they spark conversation and inspire people worldwide. Her memoir In the Dream House details an abusive, same-sex relationship through a genre-busting format and language that comes alive on the page through a mix of fantasy and horror elements. Her short story collection, Her Body and Other Parties, is a haunting, otherworldly assembly of smart, sensual prose.

And, yes, Machado even dabbles in the world of graphic novels with her feminist horror comic series, The Low, Low Woods In short, this event is a must-go at this year’s festival. Local author and fellow female fiction writer Sharma Shields joins Machado on stage to discuss the headlining author’s innovative storytelling style, reimagining how fiction is written, how to tell queer stories and much, much more.

In case you can’t make it to this special event, festivalgoers have two additional chances to hear from Machado on Saturday. The author leads a 10 am nonfiction craft class a 3 pm session titled “The Surreal is Real: A Conversation on Myths and Magic.” Whether you’re a reader or a writer, any amount of inspiration you can glean from Machado’s wealth of knowledge will be incredibly valuable. (MP)

...continued on next page

BOOK FAIR

Sat, April 13 from 9 am-5 pm, $25 (festival pass), Montvale Event Center

Pack your favorite book-toting bag, and do some shoulder stretches because it’s gonna get heavy. Get Lit!’s annual book fair in the Montvale is host to more than 20 vendors, from favorite local bookstores like Auntie’s and Giant Nerd to dozens of regional small presses and literary-centric groups. By purchasing a festival pass ($25), attendees not only have access to the book fair on the Montvale’s main floor, but all other festival events held there that day. There’s more than 10 in all, including a live Dungeons & Dragons game (Get Crit!, 2 pm), readings, panels, workshops and more. DOMA Coffee is serving free java from 9 am to noon, and Skewers (next door) offers tasty lunch options. For a full list of vendors and orgs at the book fair, check the official Get Lit! schedule. (CS)

SILENT READING PARTY

Sat, April 13 from 2-3 pm, $25 (festival pass), Montvale Event Center

With all of the events on the Get Lit! schedule each year, it’s hard to forget that most bookworms are actually huge introverts. So after you go to the book fair and grab a new read, head upstairs to sit down and read in comfortable silence with some fellow book lovers. This event is inspired by the rise of Silent Book Clubs, a book club with no predetermined book for people who just want to sit around and read in the quiet company of others. Spokane has two chapters that meet up monthly at various local coffee shops. Kathie McAuliffe, who runs the North Spokane chapter, hosts this Silent Reading Party. The only thing you need to bring with you is your current read and your love of books! (MP)

OUR KIND: POETRY OF REFUGE, RESISTANCE, AND RECOMPENSE

Sat, April 13 from 4:30-5:30 pm, $25 (festival pass), Montvale Event Center Poetry is arguably one of the most versatile arts in human history. On top of its dozens of classic and contemporary forms, poets have often found seemingly infinite ways to use it. In this conversation and reading, poets Subhaga Crystal Bacon, Luther Hughes and Cindy Veach speak about poetry’s paradoxical power as a tool of resistance and protest as well as its role as a shelter to safely reflect and rejoice. Bacon, whose recent book Transitory memorializes nearly 50 transgender and gender-nonconforming people murdered in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, will act as the moderator for this event. Hughes’ debut poetry collection explores what it means to be a Black gay man in the Pacific Northwest, and Veach’s most recent collection travels back in time to the Salem witch trials and demonstrates the weight of reclaiming one’s own power. (CR)

LGBTQ+ AND DISABILITIES: WRITING OUR WAY INTO ACCEPTANCE

Sun, April 14 from 2:30-3:30 pm, free, virtual event

Growing up different can be isolating. And when you’re different in more ways than one, that feeling is only magnified. For this event, authors Jeffrey Dale Lofton and Greg Marshall read from their own works which both examine just that. Lofton’s fictionalized memoir Red Clay Suzie explores growing up gay and disabled in rural Georgia. Marshall’s memoir Leg: The Story of a Limb and the Boy who Grew from It is more of a comingof-age-story about growing up in two closets — one as a gay man and another as someone living with cerebral palsy. Their reading is followed with a hefty conversation traversing homophobia and ableism, alongside the importance of publishing these intersectional stories. (CR) n

Writer,s Town

Get Lit! Festival returns for its 26th year offering dozens of live and virtual literary events

BY COLTON RASANEN

For two-plus decades, writers have gathered in Spokane every April to celebrate the literary arts, from poetry and prose to nonfiction and short stories. And this year is no different as Eastern Washington University’s Get Lit!, the Inland Northwest’s annual literary festival, will have more than 40 events over the next few days, April 11 through 14.

We took some time to sit down with Get Lit!’s director, Kate Peterson, to chat about the literary festival’s impact on the region, what events are coming back this year, and just how much work goes into it. This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

INLANDER: What does it mean to you to be the Get Lit! Festival’s director?

PETERSON: Get Lit! has been around for 26 years, so it is special to me to be in a position to be able to highlight the community and the writers that we have here in Spokane. It means a lot to me to help other writers do what they love and help them find opportunities to be creative and be inspired by the events that we present.

Why is this festival such a staple in the Inland Northwest? We’re not the only literary festival in Washington state anymore, but we are the longest-running literary festival in the state. Get

Lit! has become a community tradition here in Spokane. This is a real writer’s town, so this is our annual celebration of the region’s talented pool of writers.

One comment that we got from a writer a couple of years ago is that this festival is more of a writers festival, rather than a readers festival. A lot of book festivals gear more toward the reader, and while of course our events are for readers too, we’re thinking about the writer, and we’re thinking about how we can inspire other writers.

What kind of work goes into each year’s festival?

It’s fun for me to be able to put some of these events together, but most of them are submitted via our submissions portal from May 1 to Sept. 1. So sometimes when those submissions come in, we’re doing a little bit of curating or putting them together behind the scenes. We’re thinking about who would work well together, whose work is similar, who we could put on stage together and give them a really awesome opportunity.

When we say put it all together, that means from the ground up because we don’t get any money from Eastern to run the festival. So we’re raising all of the money, booking all of the authors, booking all of the venues, and finding all of the volunteers to help run all the events.

How long does that usually take you? It’s an 11-month-out-of-the-year job.

This year y’all are holding an entire day of virtual events [Sunday]. Is there a reason for that?

There’s a few different reasons. We learned a lot during the height of the pandemic, and we wanted to make the festival more accessible to people who can’t come out in person no matter whether we’re in a pandemic or not. So we made that decision to keep virtual, from here on out.

I think sometimes because it’s been around so long, people might just go, “Oh, that’s always gonna be here,” but that’s not always the case. There are budget cuts all the time. Even though we would love to keep bringing in all these writers, we can’t afford it. So virtual is a great solution for that.

Are there any returning classics that people should look forward to this year?

Poetry Salon is one of our staples. This year is going to be the first time, at least since I’ve been director, that we’ve had it at the Magic Lantern Theatre. Our Conversations Over Coffee events have become staples in the festival’s schedule. Those are a little more laid back. People can just come and talk about whatever they want in little groups. People can find other writers who are doing similar things or if they want to, they can find a writing group or start a book club.

Why should folks come out — in person or virtually — to the festival this weekend?

It’s so joyful to come out in the springtime when the weather’s finally nice and there’s just a bunch of writers in town who are all energized, excited and inspired. It’s a fun experience to come out to get unprecedented access to some of these really amazing writers that we’re bringing in. n

VISUAL ARTS

Kinda Weird, Super Cool

Thirteen-year-old artist James Cunningham debuts his first solo show this April in downtown Spokane

BY LUCY KLEBECK

James Cunningham is a typical 13 year old. He enjoys baseball and running, plays in a jazz band, and doodles in his school notebooks. He attends Odyssey at Libby Center, Spokane Public Schools’ gifted student program, and has six siblings.

What makes him stand out from his peers, though, is that he makes art others may find a little weird. The young artist even feels this way about his work, too.

In second grade, Cunningham drew portraits of every American president, including his favorite, James K. Polk.

“I think he looks cool,” Cunningham says, “and everything that he said that he was going to do before his presidency he accomplished, all of it and nothing more.”

These early artworks led the young artist’s parents to set up a mentorship of sorts for their son with Charlie Schmidt, a longtime Spokane artist and creative figure perhaps best known as the creator of Keyboard Cat, an early viral YouTube video with more than 75 million views.

Schmidt says he’s mentored many quirky, gifted kids

who show an innate talent for art.

“I hardly ever get a ‘normal’ kid — it wouldn’t work out, we’d be bored with each other,” he says.

Schmidt went to art school in Tokyo in the 1970s and has shown his work all over the world. He makes all kinds of art: paintings of memes, cat videos, kinetic sculptures, graphic designs. Upstairs in his South Hill home is an art studio filled with creative materials, spray-painted walls, tiny furniture and lots of art.

It’s here that Cunningham meets Schmidt for an hour and a half every Sunday. Schmidt supplies materials, a calming vibe and pointers every once in a while. While it seems like a one-sided partnership, Schmidt says he’s learning just as much as his young apprentice.

“The idea of students coming to me thinking that they don’t know something and I do, and I can supply that so they can be cool like me, I just don’t buy into that,” Schmidt says. “He’s showing up with a bunch of stuff that’s already his. My job is to help it get out and not destroy it.”

Cunningham typically cranks out paintings in an hour, usually in a pop expressionist style, albeit self-described as “just kinda weird,” and has never overworked a piece, according to Schmidt.

“He’s good at knowing when to stop. It’s an important thing. You can ruin a lot of good stuff,” Schmidt says.

Spokane artists Charlie Schmidt (left) and James Cunningham. YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

Cunningham typically paints logos and portraits: the Simpsons, Jimmy Carter, Garfield, his younger brother. He starts each piece with a pencil sketch before painting with acrylic paint what looks easiest before moving on to the harder parts.

“I prefer the start of the thing, cause it’s just tracing and it’s pretty easy, than the end when you have to do the harder parts,” he says.

During their weekly sessions, Schmidt watches and supplies Cunningham with materials he assumes the young artist might need next, such as a sponge and water or a series of paint. This process allows them to maximize their limited time together so that Cunningham is free to create as much art as he can.

Outside of meetings with Schmidt, Cunningham doesn’t paint much. He draws with markers at home, sketches in his school notebooks and attends art class at school, yet prefers practicing his craft with Schmidt.

The young artist’s paintings display a loose brush stroke technique, and he doesn’t shy away from adding words or writing, a practice often looked down upon in the art world.

Schmidt’s favorite piece of Cunningham’s is a portrait of Jimmy Carter, which Cunningham titled “Jimmy C. by Jimmy C.” Schmidt describes the piece as reminiscent of the work of JeanMichel Basquiat, Cunningham’s favorite artist.

“His face, his mouth — yeah he nailed it,” Schmidt says. “And he didn’t try and kill it, when she’s done, she’s done, and I love that. Everybody needs to learn something by seeing that.”

Cunningham’s first sold artwork — a milestone that Schmidt says made him a professional artist — was a commissioned portrait of Schmidt, which he sold to him for five dollars.

About 10 of Cunningham’s works were publicly unveiled at V du V Winery in downtown Spokane last week for April’s First Friday event, making Cunningham probably the youngest artist to host a solo First Friday show in Spokane. The reception included Twinkies, live music, bubble water and a portrait of the V du V Winery owner, Kirk Phillips, as a child.

Most 13-year-olds aren’t having solo art shows, and most 13-year-olds aren’t comfortable identifying with the label of “weird,” either. But something we can all learn from Cunningham is described well by Schmidt: You find out what to do next right away by listening to your heart, rather than your brain.

Schmidt, who describes himself as a little nuts, says, “I was born like this, you can’t blame anybody.”

Yet it’s clear that what he describes as “nuts” is an artistic spirit that allows him, and fellow creatives like Cunningham, to produce work that draws people in.

“I’ve always been one for letting paint be paint, but he even pushes me on that,” Schmidt says.

Cunningham’s art will hang at the winery through the end of April, with all but a few pieces for sale. Those interested in purchasing Cunningham’s art, can contact Schmidt at 509-5344302. n

James Cunningham

• Through May 2; open Fri from 3-6 pm and Sat from 1-5 pm

• All ages

• V du V Winery Gallery

• 12 S. Scott St.

• facebook.com/vduvspokane

• 509-747-3200

Cunningham’s portraits of Jimmy Carter, Schmidt and others.

A Cup of Mourning Tea

Spokane end-of-life expert Samantha Potter hosts community “Death Cafes” to open discussion about the fate we all share

BY CARRIE SHRIVER

Spring buds burst forth on the trees. Unfurling into leaves, their lush greenery provides shade and solace on summer’s hottest days. During fall’s final gasp, the canopy is awash with brilliant colors until the chill withers the foliage that then falls, brown and dead, onto the frozen winter ground.

Caught in nature’s cycle of birth, growth, death and renewal, all of us eventually reach our final season. But who’s to say we’ll actually be ready to die?

Death, says Samantha Potter, “is such a taboo topic because it’s the one thing none of us can avoid.”

The local estate planning paralegal and end-of-life expert recently began hosting monthly public “Death Cafes” at local libraries in Spokane in order to create a welcoming and open space for conversations about dying, including our fear of it. Death Cafes aim to normalize the unavoidable reality and to discuss how to make life count.

The concept originated from Bernard Crettaz, a Swiss sociologist and anthropologist. The death of Crettaz’s wife led him to create, in 2004, what he called the “Cafe Mortel.” He later wrote a book on the subject, Death Cafes: Bringing Death Out of Silence.

Since their inception, Death Cafes have spread worldwide as interest has increased. Strangers, friends and families have gathered at more than 17,000 such events, which are tracked on a central website for the movement (deathcafe.com) to share cake, donuts, tea and coffee while talking about life’s end.

In Spokane, Potter facilitates Death Cafes every second Sunday at Spokane Public Library branches and has held eight such events since July 2023. Whether the cafe is held online, in a room with people gathered around a central table, or in a more casual setting with couches and chairs, it’s a confidential, no-pressure gathering.

One couple recently attended one of Potter’s Death Cafes because the wife has lung cancer.

“Although her health was good, [she] felt very close to death,” Potter says.

While Potter says a Death Cafe is not a grief support group, attendees can still express their emotions, whether it’s anticipatory grief for their own or a loved one’s demise, or in response to losing someone close. For participants searching for more answers or support, Potter can provide a list of resources.

“I

’ve been talking to people about death and dying for over a quarter of a century,” Potter says.

While she’s not ready to fully retire just yet after working nearly 28 years as a paralegal, she works part time as an end-of-life doula (also called a death doula) and a life coach — focusing on major life transitions and bereavement — through her consulting business, Rubicon’s Edge.

End-of-life doulas work with people nearing death alongside their caregivers and family, offering services such as companionship as well as emotional, spiritual and practical support, including helping around the house. Death doulas were very rare until the COVID pandemic. The National End-of-Life Doula Alliance (formed in 2015) had 260 U.S. members in 2019. As of January 2024, there were 1,545.

Training for doulas can differ between certification organizations. Potter trained in 2022 through three different organizations to gain a wide range of experience, and has two certifications.

Hosting Death Cafes for the Spokane community was a natural step.

“Offering the Death Cafe is a way to help the community get to a more holistic approach to death,” says Potter, who has previously battled cancer. “I’m not trying to get people to rush toward death, but at least be able to consider it as a normal part of life. Since the early 20th century, [death] has become more institutionalized. Used to be that you died at home, surrounded by your family. In earlier times, you were so close to it — you might not want to die, but you couldn’t avoid the experience of death.”

Potter’s own first exposure to death came when she was about 4 years old. Her Aunt Sylvia had cancer and chose to forgo treatment and hospitalization because of her religious beliefs. Potter and her mother cared for her.

“My Aunt Sylvia was my favorite person in the whole world,” Potter says. “She’s the only adult that really had time for me until she got so sick.”

Sylvia spent her last few months in pain. When Potter saw her aunt’s body at the funeral, she remembers saying to her mother, “She doesn’t hurt anymore.”

“Maybe that was my calling to do death work,” Potter says with a smile. n

Death Cafe with Samantha Potter • Sun, April 14 from 1:30-3:30 pm • Free • Hillyard Library • 4110 N. Cook St. • deathcafe.com

Samantha Potter’s candid sessions are meant to lessen people’s fear and regret. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

SUMMER CampS

KICKSTART YOUR KIDS’ FINANCES

It’s never too early to start saving — visit your local BECU by April 30 to open an Early Saver account and receive a special gift while supplies last!

Spokane Division 916 N Division Street

Spokane, WA 99202

Tellers available

Spokane North 9420 N Newport Hwy Spokane, WA 99218 Tellerless

Scan the QR code to learn more.

Spokane Valley 615 North Sullivan Road, Suite D Spokane Valley, WA 99037 Tellerless

This QR code should lead you to https://www.becu.org/-/ media/Files/PDF/Join-Flyer_Early-Saver.pdf. If the code leads you to another site, avoid entering your information and report the incident to BECU.

SUMMER CampS

Canoe on Lake Coeur d’Alene at Camp Sweyolakan.

RESIDENT

BOY SCOUTS CAMP EASTON  Spend a week on the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene and participate in activities like swimming, water skiing, boating, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking and more. Ages 11-17. Sessions offered June 30-Aug. 5. $250$475. nwscouts.org/campeaston

BOY SCOUTS CAMP GRIZZLY  Since 1938, Camp Grizzly along the Palouse River has been the home to summer adventure for countless Scouts and Scout Leaders. Campers can try their hand at programs such as ATVs, shooting sports, blacksmithing, welding, water activities and more. Ages 11-17. Sessions offered July 14-Aug 2. $230-$450. nwscouts.org/campgrizzly 509-242-8231

CAMP CROSS  A faith-based sleepaway camp hosted by the Episcopal Diocese of Spokane on Lake Coeur d’Alene and offering team-building exercises, arts and crafts, swimming, wakeboarding/tubing, hiking, campfires, worship and more. June 1416 (Women’s/Men’s Weekend, all ages), June 21-23 (Leaders in Training, ages 15+), June 30-July 2 (Mini Camp, grades 2-3), July 7-12 (Intermediate Camps, grades 4-6) Mid High Camp (grades 7-9) and Aug. 4-10 (Senior High Camp, grades 10-2023 graduates). Also includes Days at the Lake July 3-6 (all ages/family), arts camp July 14-19 (grades 4-9) and a Labor Day Family Camp from Aug. 30-Sept. 2. $100-$475. campcross.org 509-624-3191

CAMP FOUR ECHOES (GRADES 2-3)  This year’s programs at Camp Four Echoes include “Movin’ and Groovin’,” “Mermaids of Lake Coeur d’Alene” and “Splish Splash.” Girls entering grades 2-3. Weeklong sessions offered June 16-Aug. 7; see website for session breakdown and details. $380-$485. gsewni.org 800827-9478

CAMP FOUR ECHOES (GRADES 4-5)  Themed camp sessions include “Dare to Do it,” “On Target,” “Water, Water Everywhere” and more. Camp offers traditional activities including swimming, arts and crafts, hiking and games. Girls entering grades 4-5. Sessions offered weekly from June 16-Aug. 7; see website for session details. $380-$485. gsewni.org 800-827-9478

CAMP FOUR ECHOES (GRADES 6-8)  Themed sessions in 2024 include “Summer Magic,” “Take to the Trees,” “Showstoppers” and new in 2024, “Cadette Chaos.” Camps include traditional activities such as swimming, boating, hiking, arts and crafts and more. Girls entering grades 6-8. Sessions offered weekly from

June 16-Aug. 7; see website for session details. $380-$485. gsewni.org 800-827-9478

CAMP FOUR ECHOES (GRADES 7-10)  Programs this year include “Risky Business,” “Jump on Board,” and “Artist’s Adventure.” See complete session details online. Girls entering grades 7-10. Offered June 16-Aug. 7 (includes select two-week sessions). $380-$485. gsewni.org 800-827-9478

CAMP FOUR ECHOES LEADERSHIP SESSIONS  Teen girls learn skills in leadership, the outdoors and working with children; all necessary to become future camp counselors. Girls entering grades 9-12. Adventures in Leadership (grades 9-12) is July 28-Aug. 7; CIT sessions (grades 10-12) are June 16-28 and July 7-12. $575-$685. gsewni.org 800-827-9478

CAMP GIFFORD  Camp Gifford offers an outdoor camp experience with opportunities for games, arts and crafts, archery, swimming, boating, and singing in a faith-based setting. Ages 7-12. Weeklong sessions offered June 24-Aug. 2. $350; scholarships available. campgifford.com 509-233-2511

CAMP GIFFORD TEEN WILDERNESS CAMP  The Salvation Army’s Camp Gifford on Loon Lake offers activities such as hiking, sailing, high ropes courses and outdoor survival skills. Campers explore nature, and grow and develop their Christian faith while developing friendships with other teens from around the Pacific Northwest. Ages 13-17. Weeklong sessions offered June 24-July 19. $60/week. campgifford.com 509-435-9023

CAMP LADY OF THE LAKE  An arts camp on Lake Coeur d’Alene offering dance, music, storytelling and singing workshops alongside traditional camp activities. June 23-29 at Camp N-Sid-Sen facilities. Open to families and participants of all ages. $595-$995. ladyofthelake.org

CAMP LUTHERHAVEN  A faith-based resident camp on Lake Coeur d’Alene that’s been operating for more than 78 years, offering traditional camp activities including ropes courses, campouts, water sports, Bible study, archery and more. Threeday and six-day sessions for grades K-12 are offered from June 16-Aug. 16; see website for complete details. Junior camp staff opportunities for grades 10-12 and family camps also available. $190-$495; financial assistance available. lutherhaven.com 866729-8372

MAKING MEMORIES

The sun has gradually begun making its long-awaited appearance here in the Inland Northwest after months of gray skies, and that can only mean one thing: Summer is near!

We all know how it feels to have 10 weeks of freedom ahead of us. Ten weeks of fun in the sun and endless possibilities in the palm of our hands, yet it’s what we choose to do with that freedom that makes all the difference.

Kids deserve this well-earned break from all of the hard work they’ve done in school throughout the year. Summer is their reward, and these camps ensure that they are not only having a blast, but feel welcomed and safe while doing so.

Each year as I compile this guide, I’m more and more impressed with just how much diversity is offered through the summer camps in the Inland Northwest. For kids who want to explore nature, the options are endless thanks to the beautiful area in which we live. They can experience hiking, rock climbing, swimming in beautiful lakes and so much more through so many different programs featured here in this guide.

For kids looking to flex their brain muscles during the summer, there are STEAM camps galore. From engineering and coding to becoming whip-smart inventors, youngsters attending these camps will walk away with valuable knowledge that will follow them throughout their lives. There are camps for music lovers, dancers, budding artists and every creative kid in between, too.

At the end of it all, children will return home talking about jumping off the camp’s boat dock and all the campfire songs they sang, but they’ll also tell you about the lifelong memories they’ve made and the incredible people who made them possible.

As seen through the almost 350 camps featured in this guide, local kids are set up for a summer of not only fun, but success, as they head off to have the best summer vacation ever.

Be safe, be well, and here’s to the many memories that will be made this summer.

— MADISON PEARSON Summer Camp Guide Editor

ABOUT THE COVER

Every year, the Inlander teams up with the Graphic and Web Design program at North Idaho College, under the guidance of Instructor Philippe Valle, to create the cover for our Summer Camp Guide. This year, we narrowed down a handful of submissions and selected an illustration by student Magdalena Idzikowska. You can also see the illustrations from our other finalists, like Andrea Shepherd (above), and throughout the Summer Camps guide.

CAMP FIRE INW PHOTO

THE PERFECT BURGER EXPERIENCE HAS ARRIVED

SUMMER CampS

CAMP MIVODEN  Campers participate in activities such as water skiing, games, arts and crafts and more in a faith-based setting. June 30-July 7 (ages 11-13), July 7-14 (ages 8-10) and July 14-21 (ages 14-17). $549/session. mivoden.com

CAMP N-SID-SEN  A faith-based (United Church of Christ) resident camp on Lake Coeur d’Alene offering traditional camp activities such as crafts, songs, water activities and more. Sessions in 2024 include the following: You & Me Camp (July 21-24, grades 1- with an adult), Kids Camp (July 24-27, grades 2-4), Intermediate Camp (July 14-20, grades 5-6), Junior High Camp (July 14-20, grades 7-9) Senior High Camp (July 21-27) and Family Camp (July 28-Aug. 3). See website for details. $205-$635. n-sid-sen.org 208-689-3489

It’s all smiles at Camp Dart-Lo. CAMP

CAMP SWEYOLAKAN LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS  High school juniors and seniors who wish to become future camp counselors learn leadership skills and more. Open to boys and girls entering grades 11-12. Senior CIT session: June 23-July 25. Junior CIT session: July 28-Aug. 23. Teens entering grade 8-12 can also attend camp for free by serving as a “Camper Buddy” to assist special needs campers, or being a dishwasher or bugler. Application process/prerequisites needed. $900. campfireinc.org 509-747-6191

FLATHEAD LUTHERAN BIBLE CAMP  Summer programming takes place along the beautiful west shore of Flathead Lake in Montana. Spend a week swimming, boating, playing games, hiking, doing archery, making art projects and playing games in a faith-based setting. Grades 1-12. Sessions offered weekly from June 23-Aug. 2. $300-$600. flbc.net 406-7526602

CAMP REED  While living in a single-gender, rustic camp cabins, campers join in all that camp has to offer, including waterfront arts and crafts, hikes, campfires, games and more. For boys and girls entering grades 3-9. Weeklong sessions from June 16-Aug. 17. $610-$625. ymcainw.org 509-777-9622

CAMP REED CIT PROGRAM  Over the course of two weeks, teens build leadership skills through active team building, group learning, community building and service. The CIT program incorporates one week at camp and one week out of camp on a 200+ mile bike trip. For boys and girls entering grade 10. Sessions offered from June 30-Aug. 10. $750-$765. ymcainw.org 509-777-9622

CAMP REED MINI CAMP  Campers enjoy a three-day/ two-night session at Camp Reed under the watchful eye of counselors and junior counselors. Campers swim, explore the 555 and participate in traditional camp activities. Co-ed, grades 1-2. Sessions offered from June 16-Aug.13. $295-$310. ymcainw.org 509-777-9622

CAMP SANDERS FAMILY CAMP  A non-denominational Christian camp exploring outdoors the nature, with swimming, hiking, sports, crafts, music and more. This year’s theme is “A Royal Priesthood.” July 4-9. $150; children 15 and under attend for free. campsanders.net

CAMP SANDERS KIDS CAMP  A non-denominational Christian camp exploring the outdoors and nature with swimming, hiking, sports, crafts, music and more. Grades 3-5. July 8-11. $85. campsanders.net 208-262-6756

CAMP SPALDING  Campers ride horses, swim, boat, zipline, play team sports and more at a faith-based camp. Sessions offered include Discovery Camp (grades 2-4) June 30-July 3 and Aug. 11-14; Junior Camp (grades 5-6) June 23-29 and July 14-20; Jr High Camp (grades 7-8) is July 21-27 and Aug. 4-10; Senior High Camp (grades 9-12) is July 7-13 and July 28-Aug. 3. $290-$575. campspalding.org 509-731-4244

CAMP SPALDING LEADERSHIP CAMP  A faith-based leadership program for campers interested in becoming camp counselors or helping out at later summer sessions. Grades 10-12. June 16-22. Application required; see website for details and application process. $575. campspalding.org 509-731-4244

CAMP SWEYOLAKAN  A traditional rustic summer camp for boys and girls on Lake Coeur d’Alene, accessible only by boat. Campers enjoy swimming, boating, archery, outdoor activities, ropes courses, arts and crafts and more. Grades 1-12. Sessions run Sun-Thu from June 14-Aug. 23 with overnight and day options available. Transportation included. $260-$600/ session. campfireinc.org 509-747-6191

IDAHO SERVANT ADVENTURES LEADERSHIP CAMP  Spend a week in service at Camp Lutherhaven or Shoshone Mountain Retreat alongside other high school students at a week-long, high-energy, action-packed service-leadership camp. Engage in meaningful service projects each morning and wrap up the day with your favorite camp activities in the evening. Coed, grades 9-12. $350. lutherhaven.com 866-729-8372

LUTHERHAVEN FAMILY RANCH CAMP  A family camp up the river at Shoshone Mountain Retreat, for families of all shapes and sizes, couples, friends and anyone looking to get away from it all for a weekend of fun. Activities include horseback riding, campfire and worship, rock climbing, floating the Coeur d’Alene River, hiking and more. Sessions offered July 19-21 and Aug. 9-11. $120-$175/person. lutherhaven.com 866729-8372

LUTHERHAVEN KINDERCAMP  Young campers are invited to bring a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, godparent, older brother/sister (18+) or other significant adult to share all the fun of camp. Lutherhaven staff lead activities for both the camper and adult to participate in. Kids ages 4-6 with an adult. July 26-28. $176/adult-child pair; $68 per additional child; $158 per additional adult. lutherhaven.com 866-7298372

LUTHERHAVEN: CASTAWAY VILLAGE  Castaway campers learn outdoor living skills, gather with other villages for evening activities. Campers have the opportunity to help cook their breakfasts and some dinners over a fire. Campers also enjoy typical camp activities like hiking, swimming, games and more. During the day, they join main site camp for lunch. Sessions offered June 16-21, June 30-July 3, July 28-Aug. 2, Aug. 4-9 and Aug. 11-16. Coed. Grades 4-6. $285-$475. lutherhaven.com 866-729-8372

LUTHERHAVEN: SHOSHONE CREEK RANCH  The perfect week for youth who love horses and riding, or who have no horse experience but desire it. Develop horse skills in the arena and on trails at Shoshone Creek Ranch, Lutherhaven’s rustic mountain guest ranch in a gorgeous creek-side setting. Includes daily horse time, plus popular camp activities like splashing in the swimmin‚Äô hole, the 40-foot natural climbing wall, tubing the river, crafts, campfire cooking, worship and Bible study. Grades 5-10; all skill levels. Sessions for girls only offered weekly June 23-Aug. 16; coed sessions June 2328, June 30-July 5, July 14-19, July 18-Aug. 9 and Aug. 4-9. At Shoshone Mountain Retreat. $604. lutherhaven.com

LUTHERHAVEN: TREEHOUSE VILLAGE  The treehouse camp experience includes sleeping on mattresses in open-air tree houses, helping with chores and learning basic outdoor-living skills, plus gathering with other villages for evening activities. Campers have the opportunity to help cook their breakfasts and some dinners over a fire. Campers also enjoy typical camp activities like hiking, swimming, games and more. During the day, they join main site camp for lunch. Grades 4-6. Sessions offered June 16-Aug. 16. $285-$498. lutherhaven.com 866-729-8372

MIVODEN DISCIPLETREK CAMP  A three-week faith-based journey also offering a chance to develop friendships with other campers and participate in camp activities such as wakeboarding, rafting, and rock climbing. Ages 15-18. July 7-21. $745. mivoden.com 509-242-0506

MIVODEN EQUESTRIAN CAMP  A weeklong experience learning on the trail, as well as through lessons. Whether you’re just starting out or have multiple years of experience, this session offers a fun time learning and caring for horses. June 30-July 7 (ages 10-12), July 7-14 (ages 14-17), July 14-21 (ages 12-14), July 21-28 (advanced; ages 14-17). $679/session. mivoden.com 509-242-0506

MIVODEN EXTREME CAMP  A faith-based camp for teens who want to push themselves, offering tough climbs, whitewater rafting and survival techniques. Ages 12-17. Weeklong sessions offered June 30-July 21. $649/session. mivoden.com 509-242-0506

MIVODEN FAMILY CAMP  This special session offers a variety of hands-on experiences that accommodate the whole family. During the day, classes are taught by qualified staff, while evenings are occupied with spiritual campfire programs. Offered July 21-28, Aug. 4-11 and Aug. 4-18. $399-$629. mivoden. com 509-242-0506

MIVODEN SURVIVAL CAMP  A week of adventure and learning about the natural environment, including important skills for wilderness survival from expert James Turner. Learn how to start a fire without a lighter, find things to eat in the forest and develop many other skills. Also includes traditional activities like archery and zip-lining. June 30-July 7 (ages 12-14), July 7-4 (ages 10-12), July 14-21 (ages 10-12). $679/session. mivoden.com

MIVODEN TEEN WAKEBOARD

CAMPS  Catch some air and learn how to wakeboard or wakesurf at a faith-based camp using the camp’s special wakeboarding boat. June 30-July 7 (ages 14-17), July 7-14 (ages 14-17), and July 14-21 (ages 12-14). $679/session. mivoden.com

ROSS POINT BAPTIST

CAMP  A Christian camp on the Spokane River offering traditional camp activities, worship, Bible studies, games, singing, prayer and more. Grades 2-12. Sessions offered July 14-17 (grades 2-4); June 18-23 (grades 6-9); July 14-19 (grades 6-9); July 19-20 (ages 4-7 and their parents), July 21-26 (grades 4-6) and July 21-26 (grades 9-12). See website for full details. $78-$413. rosspoint.org 208-773-1655

2024 Summer Camps

SHOSHONE MOUNTAIN RETREAT  Each day is a new adventure in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. Spend a day floating the river, overnight at the new McPherson Meadows, day hike the Coeur d’Alene River National Scenic Trail, plus horseback ride, rock climb, and zip-line. Grades 5-10. Sessions offered June 13-18, July 14-19 (grades 5-7 only), June 30-July 5 July 28-Aug. 2 (grades 7-9 only) and Aug. 4-9 (grades 7-10 only). $475. lutherhaven.com

SOLE TEEN TREK EXPERIENCE  An outdoor leadership expedition that helps teens develop leadership and outdoor technical skills while on a backcountry expedition in the Idaho and Montana wilderness. Ages 13-17. July 16-22; on the Lower Salmon River. $1,350. soleexperiences.org

SPALDING FAMILY CAMP  The whole family can go to summer camp together and enjoy boating, barbecuing, swimming and other traditional camp activities in a faith-based setting. Aug. 14-18. “Mom/Dad & Me” session (K-2 with a parent) is June 14-15. $55-$295. campspalding.org 509-731-4244

TWIN EAGLES OVERNIGHT OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMP  Overnight campers deepen their awareness by honing the senses through animal tracking, bird language and a variety of other activities. Community living offers opportunities to experience the interconnectedness of life through sleeping in tents, song, storytelling and more. July 21-26 (ages 10-13) and July 29-Aug. 4 (ages 13-18) in Priest River, Idaho. $1040-$940; scholarships available. twineagles.org

TWINLOW ELEMENTARY CAMPS  Young campers enjoy a week of traditional camp activities, including Bible study, team activities, games and more. Grades 3-6. Aug. 25-29 (general session); special sessions are June 30-July 4 (adventure camp), July 7-11 and Aug 11-15 (lake camp) and Aug. 4-8 (arts and science camp). $450-$475/session. twinlow.org 208-352-2671

ANGELINA MINSHALL COVER DESIGN SUBMISSION

SUMMER CampS

TWINLOW HIGH SCHOOL CAMPS  High schoolers enjoy a week of tubing, water polo, nature walks and other typical summer camp activities in a faithbased setting. General sessions runs July 7-11. This year’s special sessions include Quest Camp (July 14-18) and Water Sports (Aug. 4-8) Grades 9-13. Sessions offered July 7-Aug. 8. $450-$500. twinlow.org

TWINLOW MIDDLE SCHOOL CAMPS  This year’s program for tweens includes three watersports sessions (one advanced session), that include wake surfing, skiing, boarding and more, plus Middle School Fine Arts (Aug. 4-8) focusing on drama, poetry, painting and more. Grades 7-9. Sessions offered June 30-Aug. 15. $450-500. twinlow.org

TWINLOW PRIMARY CAMP  A shorter stay for younger campers offering crafts, games, swimming and faith-based learning opportunities. Grades 1-3. Sessions offered June 30-July 3, July 7-10, Aug. 11-14 and Aug. 25-28. $275/session. twinlow.org

UNION GOSPEL MISSION CAMP  UGM Camp invites kids from Spokane‚Äôs low-income neighborhoods to spend a week exploring nature in a faithbased environment. Each week is sponsored by a local church. If interested in attending, contact Ryan Brown at youth outreach@uniongospelmission.org. Ages 8-11. Sessions offered weekly from June 24Aug. 16. In Ford, Wash. Free. uniongospelmission.org

DAY

AROUND THE WORLD COOKING CAMP  Kids learn how to cook various dishes from countries like Greece, Mexico, Japan and West Africa while getting hands-on cooking experience, developing confi-

dence and taking home recipes. Ages 8-12. July 1518; meets from 2-4 pm at Second Harvest, Spokane. $100. secondharvestkitchen.org

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF SPOKANE COUNTY SUMMER DAY CAMPS  These camps feature full-day (9 am-6 pm) summer programs and activities for youth and teens. Campers must be Club members ($30 /year). Grades 1-12. Lunch and afternoon snack included. Extended hours (7-9 am daily) offered for an additional fee. Offered from June 24-Aug. 9. More information online. Camps offered at The Club at Keystone, the LSG Club, the Northtown Club and Trent Elementary. bgcspokane.org

CAMP CASLO  Each week is based on a theme, providing campers opportunities to play recreational games, make arts and crafts, go on field trips, hikes and walks, and participate in the Cheney Library‚Äôs summer reading program. Ages 5-12. Sessions offered June 17-Aug. 16 at the Wren Pierson Community Center, Cheney. $240/week. cityofcheney.org

CAMP DART-LO  This forested, 51-acre camp on the Little Spokane River offers archery, leadership, outdoor activities, swimming, storytelling and more. Bus transportation also offered from several Spokane and Spokane Valley drop-off locations. Grades Pre-K-8. Ten weeklong sessions offered June 17-Aug 23; meets Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-4:15 pm (extended hours and bus transportation from select locations available). $260/session. campfireinc.org

CAMP DART-LO TEEN LEADERSHIP PROGRAM  Program Aides in Learning (PALS) is a program for teens in grades 6-9 offering hands-on training and experience with camper groups. Teens work with adults and younger campers to develop

camp program skills, behavior management and teaching skills. During the PALs program, teens enjoy traditional camp activities while guiding younger campers in outdoor play, communications, servicelearning and team-building. Jr. PALS (grades 6-8) is July 15-Aug. 2; Sr. PALS (grades 7-9) is June 24-July 3. Youth in grades 8-12 can also serve as a Camper Buddy, assisting special needs campers. Application process/prerequisites needed. $260-$360. campfireinc.org 509-747-6191

CAMP IMAGINE  A no-cost, one-week summer mini camp for incoming Spokane Public Schools 1-5 graders. Camp consists of various activities outdoors as well as educational crafts and more. Sessions offered June 24-27, july 8-11 and July 22-25, Mon-Thu from 8 am-noon at Browne, Linwood, Scott, Willard and Wilson Elementary. Free. spokaneschools.org

CAMP KA-MEE-LIN  The City of Post Falls hosts this summer day camp offering a variety of fun and safe outdoor enrichment programs including swimming, crafts, games, weekly field trips and more throughout 11 weeks of themed sessions like “Space Adventures” and “Wizarding World.” Ages K-6. Sessions offered June 17-Aug. 30, camp meets from 9 am-3:30 pm, with extended care options available. Leader-inTraining opportunities also available. $190-$240/ week. postfallsidaho.org/camp 208-773-0539

CAMP SWEYOLAKAN OUTBACKER DAY CAMPS  A traditional rustic day camp for youth on Lake Coeur d’Alene, accessible only by boat. Campers enjoy swimming, boating, archery, outdoor activities, ropes courses, arts and crafts and much more.

Grades 1-6. Sessions offered weekly from July 14Aug. 15. Programming runs 8:30 am-4 pm each day. $260. campfireinc.org 509-747-6191

COMMUNITY COLLEGES OF SPOKANE WILDERNESS WEEK  Kids make terrariums, learn knot tying, build shelters, explore geology, forage and more. Ages 7-12. July 15-19, daily from 8 am-4 pm at Spokane Falls Community College Magnuson Building. $498. ccs.spokane.edu

CAT TALES SUMMER CAMPS  Cat Tales Wildlife Center offers camps that gives kids the opportunity to experience animals up close and participate in STEAM activities. Themes include “Curious Creatures & Fearsome Features,” “Wildlife Warriors,” “Grossology & Animal Science” and more. Ages 5-15. Sessions offered weekly from June 18-Aug. 24 at Cat Tales Wildlife Center, Mead. $200-$250. cattales.org

GENERATION ALIVE  This camp is designed to offer students a fun and exciting opportunity to dive deep into the needs of their city. Students volunteer at local nonprofits, learning the work that goes into solving needs in their community. June 25-28 (Leadership Camp for returning campers), July 9-11 (Grades 5-8), July 23-25 (Grades 7-12) and Aug. 6-8 (Grades 6-12). $130-$200. generationalive.org

GIRL SCOUTS CAMP ASHWELL  Each week has a theme, and campers create art, explore science and go on trips related to that theme. Each week ends with a ceremony of achievement to honor badges, patches and other accomplishments from the week. Girls, grades K-8. Offered June 17-Aug. 23; meets Mon-Fri from 9 am-4 pm with optional extended

hours from 7:30 am-5:30 pm, at 1401 N. Ash St., Spokane. Members only for 2024. $175-$200/week; scholarships available. gsewni.org

GIZMO-CDA SUMMER CAMPS  Campers use tools and technology to create one-of-a-kind projects and build creative confidence, teamwork and problem solving skills. Sessions in 2024 include “Story Makers” (June 10-14), “Build an Electric Guitar” (July 1519), “Makers in Space” (Aug. 19-23) and more. Ages 7-18. June 10-Aug. 23 at Gizmo-CdA. $260; scholarships available. gizmo-cda.org

INLAND CHESS ACADEMY CAMPS  A chess camp for all skill levels with opportunities for seminars and participation in a four-round tournament. Sessions offered July 9-12 and Aug. 6-9, Tue-Fri from 1-4:30 pm. At Inland Chess Academy, Spokane. $20-$90. inlandchess.org 509-822-9800

ISAAC’S SUMMER SIBLING SPOTLIGHT  A program for children whose siblings have autism or other special needs. The program aims to provide a healthy support system and coping skills through fun and engaging activities that help them navigate their lives. Ages 6-18. Sessions offered May 18-June 15. Meets every third Saturday from 11 am-1 pm at the ISAAC Foundation. Free. theisaacfoundation.org

KROC CENTER ADVENTURE CAMPS  Each week campers participate in various new activities like paddle boarding, hiking, swimming and more. Ages 10-14. Sessions offered weekly from June 17-Aug. 23, meets Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-3:30 pm at the Kroc Center, Coeur d’Alene. Some sessions include overnight stays. $195.50-$260; scholarships available. kroccda.org

KROC CENTER DISCOVERY CAMPS  Each week of camp offers a fun, new theme with crafts, games, activities and a movie. Visit the rock wall, swim in the cove pool, play gym/field games and more in a faith-based environment. Ages 6-9. Sessions offered weekly from June 10-Aug. 23, meets Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-3:30 pm at the Kroc Center, Coeur d’Alene. $182-$215; scholarships available. kroccda.org

KROC CENTER EXPEDITION CAMP  Young teens try various outdoor and indoor athletic activities in a faith-based environment. Activities include biking the Hiawatha Trail, swimming, walking with alpacas and more. Coed, ages 12-14. Sessions offered weekly June 17-July 19, meets Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-3:30 pm at the Kroc Center. $233-$275. kroccda.org

KROC CENTER MINI CAMPS  Mini camps allow children to focus on one activity for two hours each day. Sessions offered in 2024 include “Deep Space Sparkle Art Camp” (June 24-28; ages 4-8), “Storytelling Camp” (Aug. 5-9; ages 12-15), “Forest Friends Ballet Camp” (July 29-Aug. 2; ages 3-4) and more. June 24-Aug. 23, times vary. At the Kroc Center, Coeur d’Alene. $68-$85; scholarships available. kroccda.org

KROC CENTER PEE WEE CAMPS  Preschoolers gain social skills in a fun, safe environment. Each week is centered around a theme, and campers enjoy all the Kroc has to offer: rock climbing, swimming, arts and crafts, Bible lessons, games, scavenger hunts, science experiments and more. Ages 4-5. Sessions offered weekly from June 17-Aug. 23, meets Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-12:30 pm at the Kroc Center, Coeur d’Alene. $119-$140; scholarships available. kroccda.org

Explore different cultures through crafts at Saint George’s. SAINT GEORGE’S SCHOOL PHOTO

MT. SPOKANE DAY CAMPS  A selection of adventure camps located on the top of Mt. Spokane. Campers explore the mountain, make friends and learn about protecting natural resources and the environment. Ages 5-15. Sessions offered June 14-Aug. 8. Three and four-day options available. $189-$299. mtspokane.com

NATURE & ADVENTURE CAMP  Campers play nature games, identify local plants and trees, practice survival skills, first-aid, basic knots, tarp shelters and safe fire building. All campers take home their own nature journal and first-aid survival kit. Ages 8-11. July 15-19 from 9 am-12 pm. Location TBD. $150. cityofcheney.org

NINJA CAMP  This camp offers professional instruction on obstacles, camp games, team-building exercises, competitions and more. Ages 5-12. Weeklong sessions offered May 27-Aug. 30. At Ninja Nation Gym. $85-$385. spokane.ninjanation.com

NATURE ADVENTURERS DAY CAMP  A day camp teaching outdoor awareness and stewardship through nature immersion, games, crafts, storytelling, songs and exploration. Ages 6-12. June 10-14 (Coeur d’Alene), June 17-21, July 8-12 and Aug. 12-16 (Spokane), July 1-5, July 8-12 and Aug. 12-16 (Sandpoint) from 9 am-3 pm daily. $395; scholarships available. twineagles.org 208-265-3685

SAINT GEORGE’S SCHOOL ADVENTURE CAMP  Experience the outdoors every day with a new activity. Hike, rock climb, build forts, learn to use GPS and kayak/stand-up paddleboard. Grades 3-6. June 12-16 from 8-11:30 am in the Saint George’s Climbing Gym. $200. sgs.org 509-466-1636

SCHWEITZER ADVENTURE CAMP  Each week, campers participate in themed adventure camps; 2024 themes include “Weird Science,” “Shark Week,” “Spies” and more. Includes transportation from the bottom of the mountain. Ages 6-10. Weekly sessions offered June 17-Aug. 16, meets Mon-Fri from 8 am-4 pm at Schweitzer, Sandpoint. $300. schweitzer.com 208-255-3081

SECOND HARVEST USA ROAD TRIP COOKING CAMP  This hands-on baking camp cover the basics to make meals and be safe in the kitchen. Learn about the science behind baking and get creative with food, learning important nutrition lessons along the way. Ages 8-12. June 24-27; meets from 2-4 pm at Second Harvest, Spokane. $100. secondharvestkitchen.org

SKYHAWKS DAY CAMP  A fun, safe and positive environment for kids to be introduced to a new sport each week, along with arts and crafts, swimming, field trips and other activities. Ages 5-12. Weekly sessions offered June 17-Aug. 23 at Pavilion Park in Liberty Lake. $120200/week. skyhawks.com

A weekly email for food lovers

Subscribe at Inlander.com/newsletter

“WHERE ALL AGES GO TO HAVE FUN LEARNING TO DANCE” Director: Shari Davis

COME JOIN US THIS SUMMER FOR DANCE, CHEER AND PRESCHOOL STEAM CAMPS!

SOLE LEADER OF THE DAY  Campers head out on the trail or water for five days to engage in adventure-based and service-learning activities. Ages 10-12. June 24-28. Camp hosted in North Idaho; details TBA. $375. soleexperiences.org

SOLE NATURE DETECTIVES  An outdoor science camp letting young kids explore various miniecosystems of the natural world through free play and experiential lessons. Ages 4-6. Sessions offered June 17-9, July 22-24 and Aug. 5-7 in Sandpoint. $188. soleexperiences.org

SOLE NATURE EXPLORERS  Campers explore the natural world outdoors and learn about the environment around them during each themed day of camp. Ages 4-9. Offered June 17-21, July 22-26 and Aug. 5-9 in Sandpoint. $312. soleexperiences.org

SPANISH SPEAKING WORLD DAY CAMP  This one-day culture camp takes campers on a tour throughout the Spanish speaking world with traditional food, outdoor games and a final cultural project. Grades 4-9. Aug. 10 from 9 am-3 pm at St. George’s School. $75. sgs.org 509-466-1636

SPOKANE VALLEY SUMMER DAY CAMP  Each week, campers go on field trips and visit local parks. Themed camps include “Camp Carnival,” “Party in Paris,” “Disco Daze” and “Camp’s Got Talent.” Ages 6-12. Sessions offered June 17-August 23. $170/week. spokanevalley.org/recreation 509-720-5408

SUMMER DAY CAMP AT MERKEL  This camp lets kids discover new interests, make friends and gain confidence while trying something new. Activities include games, arts and crafts, sports, BMX bike riding, skate park activities and more. Ages 7-11. Weekly sessions offered June 24-Aug. 16, meets Mon-Fri from 9 am-4 pm at Dwight Merkel Sports Complex. $240/session. spokanerec.org

T.E.E.N. CAMP  A camp designed to help teens build competence, confidence and decision making skills for wilderness and backcountry conditions that translate into leadership, career and teamwork environments. Ages 13-18. Sessions offered July 8-19 and July 22-Aug. 2. Location TBD. $340/session. spokanevalley.org/recreation

TEEN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DAY CAMPS  Weekly team-building activities in this small-group camp (12 participants per session) include hiking, kayaking, rafting, disc golf, stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing and more. Ages 12-15. Weekly sessions offered July 15-Aug. 16; meets Mon-Fri from 9 am-4 pm at Riverside State Park, Bowl & Pitcher. $399. spokanerec.org

Ballet

Jazz

Hiphop

– Plus Dance Classes for Advanced levels –Under the Sea•Dazzling Disney•Jungle Safari Hollywood Glam•Fairytale Fantasy•Broadway Bonanza STEAM Preschool Camps Camp Out!

All Aboard the Dr. Seuss Circus! Mad Scientist•Art, Art & More Art•Fitness is Fun

CALL 509.448.2464 • 1407 E. 57TH dancecenterofspokane.com

Contemporary • Cross Training Register online for one of our theme weeks

Tap

SARAH GEPHART COVER DESIGN SUBMISSION

MOUNTAIN

AGES 5–13

$189

ADVENTURE DAY CAMPS

JUNE 24–26

JULY 15–17

JULY 29–31

AGES 7–15

$299

MOUNTAIN BIKE SKILLS CAMP

JULY 8–11

BEGINNER & ADVANCED

JULY 22–25

ALL LEVELS

AUGUST 5–8

ALL LEVELS

SUMMER CampS

cine, while also learning how to identify native and non-native species, and ethical harvesting practices. Ages 8-13. June 2428 from 9 am-3 pm at Blue Creek Bay in Coeur d’Alene. $395; scholarships available. twineagles.org 208-265-3685

THE NEST COMMUNITY SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP  Explore 50 acres of private Spokane Nature Conservation Land. Children will spend time outdoors and enjoy moments of open play, art programming and other activities. Ages 6-11. July 8-Aug. 23, Mon-Fri from 8 am-4 pm at Nest Conservation Campus. $300. nest-school.org

TWIN EAGLES EMERGING WILD LEADERS CAMP  This day camp is designed for pre-teens and young teens to connect with peers and be guided further along the journey of wilderness skills and nature based mentoring. Ages 11-14. July 1-5, daily from 9 am-3 pm at the Spokane House. $395; scholarships available. twineagles.org 208-265-3685

TWINLOW DAY CAMPS  Day campers get to do the same activities and programs as overnight campers, including nature walks, archery, swimming, kayaking, sports, games and more in a faith-based setting. Grades 1-5. Weekly sessions offered June 24-Aug. 30 (no camps from July 3-7); meets Mon-Fri from 9 am-5 pm (full) or 9 am-3 pm (half). $1,050-$2,000. twinlow.org 208-352-2671

WILDERNESS SURVIVAL CAMPS  Participants work on their own and in teams to problem solve and master the basics of shelter, fire, tool use and knife safety, traps, rope and knots, plant uses, animal tracking, primitive skills, navigation and more. Ages 6-14. Sessions offered from June 24-Aug. 23. At Riverside State Park. $325-$418. spokanerec.org

WILDERNESS SURVIVAL DAY CAMP  Campers experience nature and learn skills including wilderness survival, wildlife tracking, finding wild edible plants, obtaining clean water and more. Ages 8-13. June 17-21 (Sagle, Idaho) and June 24-28 (Spokane). All sessions meet 9 am-3 pm daily. $395; scholarships available. twineagles.org 208-265-3685

YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMP  Summer programs are designed to help children grow in their sense of belonging as they meet new people and develop lifelong friendships in a fun and adventurous atmosphere. The YMCA offers a wide variety of exciting and enriching activities for kids to engage over the summer and school breaks. Grades 1-7, maximum age of 12 years. June 19Aug. 28, meets Mon-Fri from 6 am-6:30 pm. See website for complete details. $172-$280/week. ymcainw.org 509-777-9622

2024

Summer

WILDERNESS CAMP  A full day of building survival sills and testing yourself against real life survival scenarios. Skills taught/practiced include shelter, fire safety/building, tracking, foraging and more. Ages 8-12. Aug. 5-9, daily from 9 am-4 pm. Location TBD. $373. spokanevalley.org/recreation

WILDERNESS CRAFTS & FORAGING CAMP  This camp immerses kids in the fields, forests and riversides to gather natural materials to make functional crafts, tools, foods and medi-

YOUTH OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CAMPS  Weekly adventures include stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, disc golf and more. Ages 8-11. Weekly sessions offered from June 24-Aug. 30; meets Mon-Fri from 9 am-4 pm at Riverside State Park’s Bowl & Pitcher picnic shelter. $399/week. spokanerec.org

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL

CHENEY PARKS & REC BASEBALL CLINIC  A baseball clinic touching on the basics of the sport. Softball players welcome. Equipment is provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own gear. Coed. July 8-9 from 9-11 am (ages 6-8) and 11:30 am-1:30 pm (ages 9-12) at Salnave Park, Cheney. $50. cityofcheney.org

GONZAGA PREP BASEBALL CAMPS  Sessions offered for summer 2024 include Kids Camp (June 17-20 and July 8-10, preschool-8th grade) and Catchers Camp (June 18-19 and July 1-2, grades 6-12). At Gonzaga Prep. $80-$85. gprep.com

NIKE SOFTBALL CAMP  Instruction from head coach Bob Castle on developing fundamental and advanced skills, focusing on hitting, position-specific fielding, base-running, team play and game situations. Girls ages 8-16. July 15-18 from 9 am-4 pm at Whitworth University. $355. ussportscamps.com

PREMIER MITTS INFIELD CAMPS  Eight different camps all about the throws that an infielder must master to play at a high level. Focus on backhands, throwing, double plays and more.

Ages 8-18. Sessions offered June 24-July 25 from 8-10 am and 10 am-12 pm at Whitworth University and Shadle Park High School. $210/camp. premiermitts.com

SKYHAWKS BASEBALL  Skyhawks baseball camps offer progressional instruction and teaching in fielding, catching, throwing, hitting and baserunning. Coed, ages 6-12. Held at local parks throughout the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area. Camps offered May 13-Aug. 9; see site for complete list of dates and locations. $74-$225/ session. skyhawks.com

SUPERTOTS BASEBALL  This camp uses a variety of games to engage kids while teaching the sport of baseball and developing fundamental skills. Ages 2-5.5. June 17-Aug. 8, meets once a week. Sessions held at parks and schools in the Spokane/ Coeur d’Alene area; see site for complete list of dates and locations. $72-$126/session. supertotsports.com

ZAGS BASEBALL CAMPS  Sessions offered for summer 2024 include Lil Zags (June 25-26 and July 9-10, ages 6-10), Pups (July 9-10, ages 4-6) and Big Dogs (July 16-17, ages 10-14). See website for location details. $125. zagsbaseballcamps.com

BASKETBALL

BREAKTHROUGH BASKETBALL: ESSENTIAL SKILLS & DECISION MAKING  This intensive three-day camp with coach Timothy McCrory teaches players the skills necessary to become a great basketball player like ball handling, shooting layups, offense, footwork and more. Coed, grades 3-8. July 16-18 from 9 am-3 pm at the HUB Sports Center, Liberty Lake. $196-$245. breakthroughbasketball.com

BREAKTHROUGH BASKETBALL: SHOOTING & BALL HANDLING  Campers learn how to develop shooting fundamentals, ball handling, passing, dribbling, shooting off the catch and other essential skills to become a great basketball player. July 23-25 (grades 7-12) from 9 am-3 pm at the HUB Sports Center, Liberty Lake. $236-$295. breakthroughbasketball.com

BREAKTHROUGH BASKETBALL: SHOOTING & OFFENSIVE SKILLS  A two-day camp with coach David Baker, focusing on developing shooting techniques and other essential skills to become a great offensive basketball player. Coed, grades 5-10. April 27-28 from 9 am-3 pm at the HUB Sports Center, Liberty Lake. $255. breakthroughbasketball.com

EWU MEN’S BASKETBALL ELITE HIGH SCHOOL CAMP  This camp is structured for players at the high school level who are seeking a fun and competitive session of basketball. The camp includes intense sessions of instruction and games for student-athletes who aspire to play for their high school team, AAU team, college and beyond. Grades 7-12. July 30-Aug. 2 at Eastern Washington University, Cheney. $275-$400. ewumensbasketball.totalcamps.com

EWU MEN’S BASKETBALL HIGH SCHOOL ELITE PROSPECT CAMP  A basketball camp structured for players at the high school level who are seeking a competitive atmosphere in a college-level setting. It consists of intense sessions that mimic an EWU practice and an opportunity to experience life as a collegiate basketball player at EWU. Boys entering grades 9-12. June 26-27 at Eastern Washington University, Cheney. $75. ewumensbasketball.totalcamps.com

EWU MEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM CAMP  Sessions feature quality instruction and clinics provided by EWU men’s basketball coaches, with five guaranteed games, camp competitions/contests, and access to top facilities including Reese Court and two practice gyms. Sessions offered June 14-16, June 21-23 and July 5-7 at Eastern Washington University, Cheney, with overnight/commuter options. $500/commuter team; $2,000+/overnight team. ewumensbasketball.totalcamps.com

EWU MEN’S BASKETBALL YOUTH CAMP  This camp focuses on having fun and teaching the fundamentals of basketball through drills and game play. Specific skills to be taught include shooting, dribbling, passing, rebounding and defending. Boys entering grades 2-6. June 19-21 from 9 am-3 pm at Reese Court on Eastern Washington University’s campus. $200. ewumensbasketball.totalcamps.com

GONZAGA PREP BASKETBALL CAMPS  This year’s basketball summer camps include sessions for both girls and boys. Grades 4-8. June 17-20 from 10 am-12 pm at Gonzaga Prep. $90-$100. gprep.com

NBC BASKETBALL CAMP (NIC)  This summer’s All-Star and Elite Basketball camps provide the ultimate basketball experience. Camp Director Marc Axton and coaches help improve each camper‚Äôs basketball fundamentals, plus shooting skills, defense and ball handling. Boys ages 12-16. July 15-18 with overnight and day options at North Idaho College, Coeur d’Alene. $600-$650. nbccamps.com

NBC BASKETBALL CAMP (POST FALLS)  These camps focus on dribbling, passing, defense and shooting techniques. Athletes can improve basketball and leadership skills in a fun, encouraging environment. Coed, ages 8-15. June 12-14 (ages 10-15); July 15-18 (ages 8-12) July 15-18 (ages 10-13) and Aug. 5-8 (ages 9-14) from 9 am-3 pm. At Real Life Ministries, Post Falls. $240-$315. nbccamps.com

NBC BASKETBALL CAMPS (HUB)  The Complete Skills Jr. day camp for players with less than three years of basketball experience specializes in teaching accurate fundamentals, leadership skills and overall skill improvement. Coed, ages 8-12. Sessions offered June 19-21 and Aug. 5-7, from 9 am-3 pm, at the HUB Sports Center, Liberty Lake. $250/session. nbccamps.com 800-406-3926

NBC BASKETBALL CAMPS (WHITWORTH)  A variety of overnight and day camp options are available throughout the summer, including Complete Skills, Pure Shooting, Basketball Prep, Team Camps and more. Boys and girls ages 8-19. Sessions from June 20-Aug. 10 at Whitworth University. See website for complete program details, dates, prices and more. $390-$670. nbccamps.com 800-406-3926

NIGEL WILLIAMS-GOSS YOUTH SKILLS CAMP  A camp with the former Gonzaga player covering form, shooting drills, post and perimeter defense, ball handling, offensive moves and more. Camp offers a 1:10 coach to camper ratio. Coed, ages 7-15. July 29-31 from 9 am-4 pm at the HUB Sports Center. $300-$325. hubsportscenter. org/basketball

LessonsWeeklyRiding too!

June 17-21

July 15-19

July 29-Aug 2

August 19-23

Morning & Afternoon Sessions

Enroll online early

www.RelationalRidingAcademy.com (509) 270-3393

SUMMER CampS

Put

SAINT GEORGE’S SCHOOL BASKETBALL CAMPS  This camp is dedicated to developing the fundamental skills of basketball including shooting, passing, ball handling, defense and proper footwork. Along with developing these essential fundamentals, kids have the opportunity to use those individual and team-oriented skills in a positive environment. Grades K-12. Co-ed and single gender camps offered. June 10-14 at the Errol Schmidt Athletic Center at Saint George’s School. $75. sgs.org 509-466-1636

WHITWORTH UNIVERSITY

OVERNIGHT CAMPS

JUNE 17-20

schools in the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area; see site for complete list of dates and locations. $74-$225/session. skyhawks.com

JUNE 24-27

JULY 8-11

SUMMER SLAM BASKETBALL CAMP  A summer basketball tournament for high school affiliated teams in which teams play against each other a minimum of five times over three days. Coed, high school age. July 5-7 at the HUB Sports Center. $400. hubsportscenter.org

JULY 15-18

JULY 22-25

9-14. Sessions offered July 8-12, July 22-26 and Aug. 5-8; times TBA. At the Warehouse, Spokane. $239/ week. warehouseathletics.com 509-484-2670

DANCE, CHEER, GYMNASTICS

ADVENTURE GYMNASTICS CAMP  Each day focuses on different challenges and adventures. Prepare for scavenger hunts, obstacle courses and all kinds of gymnastics activities with a different theme each day. Previous themes have included “Amazing Race,” “Disney Day,” “Superheroes” and “Circus.” Ages 5-14. Sessions offered July 15-Aug. 9 with morning and afternoon sessions offered, at Spokane Gymnastics. $239-$349; discounts available. spokanegymnastics.com

BALLET ARTS ACADEMY SUMMER INTENSIVE  This summer intensive focuses on ballet, pointe, variations, contemporary and stretch and strengthening with guest teachers Damien Johnson and Barbara Chatelain. Summer intensives are a valuable time for dancers to build strength and refine technique as they have fun while being introduced to different styles each week. Students will be placed in appropriate level on the first day of intensive. August 12-23; meets Mon-Fri from 125:30 pm. $330-$775. balletartsacademy.com

BALLET AT THE BEACH  An after-school camp that includes high-quality, age-appropriate dance instruction, crafts and storytelling. Fun choreography will promote rhythm and musicality while introducing foundational ballet movements. No prior experience necessary. May 28-June 6, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30-4:30 pm. At Sandra Olgard Studio of Dance. $80. sandraolgardsstudioofdance.com 509-838-7464

SKYHAWKS BASKETBALL  A skill-intensive program for beginning to intermediate athletes, teaching passing, dribbling, shooting and rebounding. Coed, ages 6-12. Camps are offered June through August at

WAREHOUSE HOOPS CAMP  A fun environment where kids make friends, create lasting memories and learn life skills both on and off the court. This camp is designed for individuals with previous playing experience. Each day, campers engage in a variety of drills, games and skill development. Lunch is included. Ages

WHITWORTH UNIVERSITY

DAY CAMPS

JUNE 17-20

JUNE 24-27

JULY 22-25

AUG 5-8

WHITWORTH

JULY

OVERNIGHT CAMPS

JUNE 17-20

JUNE 24-27

JULY 8-11

JULY 15-18

JULY 22-25

BALLET/LYRICAL FUSION DANCE CAMP  A dance camp focusing on lyrical and ballet for ages 13+ with minimal dance experience. July 15-18 at Dance Center of Spokane. $140-$265. dancecenterofspokane.com

BEGINNING BALLET CAMP  A beginning session for

on your dancing shoes this summer! GONZAGA DANCE PHOTO

young dancers who listen, learn and play in a ballet class that includes crafts and a mini performance. Ages 4-7. June 24-28 from 9:30 am-12:30 pm at Spokane Ballet Studio. $230. spokaneballetstudio.com 509-714-3650

BEGINNING BALLET CAMP: PETER PAN  A beginning session for young dancers who listen, learn and play in a ballet class that includes crafts and a mini performance. Ages 4-7. July 29-Aug. 2 from 9:30 am-12:30 pm at Spokane Ballet Studio. $230. spokaneballetstudio.com 509-714-3650

BLEKER SCHOOL OF DANCE SUMMER DANCE CAMPS  An opportunity for dancers to continue their practice throughout the summer and be exposed to a variety of dance styles. Sessions offered include Junior Camp (July 30, ages 4.5-6), Youth Camp (July 29-Aug. 2, ages 7-12) and Teen Camp (July 22-26, ages 13+). $35-$175. blekerschoolofdance.com

BROADWAY BONANZA DANCE CAMP  A camp focused on musical theater and tap. Ages 10-12 with three years of dance experience. July 8-11, Mon-Thu from 2:30-4:30 pm at Dance Center of Spokane. $140. dancecenterofspokane.com

CHEER GYMNASTICS CAMP  Campers learn gymnastics, stunts, dance and cheers in a fun and fast-paced camp, plus tumbling skills on the Tumbl Trak, rod floor, spring floor and air floor, plus progressions on the air pillow pit. Campers are grouped by age and skill, and each group performs a routine on Friday for family and friends. All ages. July 29-Aug. 2 with morning, afternoon and full-day sessions. At Spokane Gymnastics. $239-$349; discounts available. spokanegymnastics.com

CHEERTOTS  Kids play a variety of games to develop balance, movement and motor skills as well as listening to instructions. Sessions also introduce basic cheerleading skills, songs and chants. Ages 3-12. Offered May 14-Aug. 9; camp meets at various parks in Spokane and North Idaho. See website for full details. $74-$225/session. supertotsports.com

CHENEY PARKS & REC CHEER CAMP  Learn fundamental cheerleading skills such as motions, cheers, dances, jumps and stunting through the use of games, drills and activities to prepare your athlete for a future in sideline cheerleading. Ages 6+. Aug. 15-19 from 9-11 am at the Wren Pierson Community Center in Cheney. $180. cityofcheney.org

CHILDREN’S DANCE CAMPS  These themed camps for boys and girls include age-appropriate dancing, crafts and storytelling. Fun choreography promotes rhythm and musicality while introducing foundational ballet movements. Dancers may wear comfy clothes, ballet attire or costumes. Ages 3-9 (varies by session). Four-day sessions offered June 24-27, July 8-11, July 15-18, July 22-25, Aug. 5-8 and Aug. 12-15 at Sandra Olgard Studio of Dance. $125/session. sandraolgardsstudioofdance.com

CROSS TRAIN WITH MELODY CAMP  A class designed for dancer and adults who are looking to strengthen their bodies. Ages 12+. July 9-Aug. 15, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10-11 am at Dance Center of Spokane. $20/class; $175/session. dancecenterofspokane.com 509-448-2464

DANCE CENTER OF SPOKANE JAZZ INTENSIVE  A camp focused on the technical aspects of classical jazz dance from stretching to turns and jumps. For experienced dancers ages 9 and up. July 29-Aug. 1, times vary by level. At Dance Center of Spokane. $110/day, $400/week. dancecenterofspokane.com

DANCE CENTER OF SPOKANE STEAM CAMPS  These dance camps focus on various styles of dance for children. Sessions include Mad Scientist (July 8-11), Dr. Seuss’ Circus (July 15-18), Camp Out (Aug. 12-15) and more. Ages 3-5. See website for full schedule. $195/week. dancecenterofspokane.com

DANCE CENTER OF SPOKANE SUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE  A course to develop strength, stamina and flexibility while improving technique in ballet, pointe, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, tap, musical theater, tumbling, hip hop and more. Over age 11 with 4+ years of experience or under 11 with 3+ years. Aug. 5-8 and Aug. 12-15 at Dance Center of Spokane. $350/week or $600/both weeks. dancecenterofspokane.com

DAZZLING DISNEY DANCE CAMP  This dance camp focuses on jazz and lyrical with a performance on the last day of camp for families to attend. Aug. 12-15, Mon-Thu from 12:30-2 pm, at Dance Center of Spokane $125. dancecenterofspokane.com

DYNAMIC ATHLETIC CENTER SUMMER DAY CAMPS  This day camp features games, art, outdoor play and gymnastics in themed sessions. Sessions include Harry Potter (July 8-12), Backwards Week (July 22-26), Monsters vs. Aliens (Aug. 5-9) and more. See website for details. At Dynamic Athletic Center. $180-$325. dynamicathleticcenter.org 509-489-5867

NORTH IDAHO

SUMMER CampS

FAIRYTALE BALLET  A series of fairytale-themed ballet camps. Sessions include Peter Pan (June 2428), Sleeping Beauty (July 29-Aug. 2) and Hansel & Gretel (Aug. 12-16). Ages 6-18 from 10 am-12 pm and ages 3-5 from 12:30-2 pm at The Academy of Dance in Spokane. $70-90. spokaneacademyofdance.com

GET BACK IN SHAPE WEEK  A session for dancers who are looking to get back into the groove of dancing before the regular dance season begins. Ages 11+. July 22-25, Mon-Thu from 4-7 pm at Dance Center of Spokane. $250. dancecenterofspokane.com

GET THE SUMMER STARTED CAMP  A promotional camp to kick off the summer with general gymnastics and activities appropriate for all abilities. Ages 5-14. June 8-12 with morning, afternoon or full-day sessions, at Spokane Gymnastics. $239-$349; discounts available. spokanegymnastics.com

GONZAGA SUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE  This year’s summer dance intensive focuses on ballet and contemporary technique, with supplemental classes in jazz, hip-hop, modern, dance composition, pilates and musical theater. All classes are taught by Gonzaga faculty and guest artists in the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center. Ages 9-20. July 22-26 (ages 13-20; intermediate/advanced) and July 29-Aug. 2 (ages 9-13; beginner/intermediate). $250-$400. gonzaga.edu/dance 509-313-6508

GYMNASTICS FUN CAMP  Basic gymnastics are taught via structured lessons on all events plus games, challenges, crafts and themed activities. Ages 6-14. Sessions offered Aug. 12-16 with morning, afternoon and full day sessions, at Spokane Gymnastics. $239$349; discounts available. spokanegymnastics.com

HIP HOP/JAZZ FUSION  A dance camp focusing on hip hop and jazz for ages 13+ with minimal dance experience. June 24-27, Mon-Thu from 1:30-3:30 pm at Dance Center of Spokane. $140-$265. dancecenterofspokane.com 509-448-2464

ISABELLE’S DANCE TIME SUMMER CLASSES  Summer offerings include classes in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, lyrical, partnering, conditioning and choreography in many different skill levels. Classes offered from July 8-25 at Isabelle’s Dance Time. $180 for unlimited classes. isabellesdancetime.com 509-927-0972

JUNGLE SAFARI FUSION INTENSIVE  This dance camp focuses on jazz and hip hop with a 10 minute break between the styles. There will be a performance on the last day of camp for families to attend. Ages 7-11; designed for dancers with 3-4 years of experience. June 24-27, Mon-Thu from 4-6 pm at Dance Center of Spokane. $140. dancecenterofspokane.com 509-448-2464

JUNIOR SUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE  This dance intensive is for younger dancers who want to take their dance to the next level. Students dance for three hours daily in ballet, jazz, stretch, strengthening and more. Intended for dancers in levels 1-3. Dancers are placed in appropriate levels on the first day. Offered in two sessions: July 15-18 and July 22-25 from 2-5 pm Mon-Thu at Ballet Arts Academy, Spokane. $245$405. balletartsacademy.com 509-838-5705

LITTLE MERMAID BALLET CAMP  Dancers are be paired up with a teen volunteer, dressed in costume, who will dance, play and craft alongside them this week. Experience ballet and creative expression with

the music from The Little Mermaid. Ages 3.5-4. June 24-28 from 1:30-3 pm at Ballet Arts Academy, Spokane. $190. balletartsacademy.com 509-838-5705

MINI JAZZ INTENSIVE  A camp focused on the technical aspects of classical jazz dance from stretching to turns and jumps. Ages 6-10. July 29-Aug. 1 from 11 am-12:30 pm at Dance Center of Spokane. $150. dancecenterofspokane.com 509-448-2426

NINJA ZONE GYMNASTICS CAMP  A fusion of gymnastics, martial arts, obstacle course training and freestyle movement. Ninja sport includes combinations of flips, rolls, and kicks designed to help improve total body coordination, build strength and improve agility. Obstacle course skills are taught in an active and fast-paced class, along with an introduction to basic gymnastics skills and structured rotations on all apparatus. Beyond skill, this camp teaches self-confidence, discipline, impulse control, responsibility and instinctual safety. Campers get to show off the skills they have learned at a Friday performance. All ages. July 29-Aug. 2 with morning, afternoon and full-day sessions. At Spokane Gymnastics. $239-$349; discounts available. spokanegymnastics.com 509-315-5433

ONCE UPON A TIME DANCE CAMP  Campers will enjoy a magical week of dance classes, games, activities and crafts based on stories from Frozen, Asha, The Little Mermaid and Cinderella. Ages 3-8. June 24-27 from 10 am-12 pm at Isabelle’s Dance Time. $130-$140. isabellesdancetime.com 509-927-0972

PARKOUR GYMNASTICS CAMP  An introduction to safety, basic techniques for jumping, vaulting, climbing and swinging, with special emphasis on falling drills, safely bailing skills and landing. Students learn parkour-specific terminology and train in the main gym, in addition to the parkour-specific room with wooden obstacles and bars. Campers get to show off their new skills in a Friday performance. Ages 5-14. July 29-Aug. 2 with morning, afternoon and full day sessions, at Spokane Gymnastics. $239-$349; discounts available. spokanegymnastics.com

PRESCHOOL GYMNASTICS CAMP  Structured gymnastics lesson on all events are taught by creative, fun and encouraging coaches. Campers enjoy games, storytime and gymnastics activities. Ages 3-5. Sessions offered Aug. 12-16 with morning, afternoon and full day sessions, at Spokane Gymnastics. $239-$349; discounts available. spokanegymnastics. com 509-315-5433

PRINCESS & THE FROG BALLET CAMP  Dancers are paired up with a teen volunteer, dressed in costume who will dance, play and craft alongside them while exploring the music from the film The Princess & The Frog. Pay in full by April 30 and receive a Tiana costume for free. Ages 3.5-7. Aug. 8-12 from 1:30-3 pm at Ballet Arts Academy, Spokane. $190. balletartsacademy.com 509-838-5705

SANDRA OLGARD STUDIO SUMMER INTENSIVE  Deepen your practice and prepare for your first class in the fall. Learn choreography in familiar and new genres, and increase flexibility. Ages 11+. Aug. 5-15, Mon-Thu from 8:30 am-1:30 pm at Sandra Olgard Studio of Dance. $600. sandraolgardsstu-

dioofdance.com

509-838-7464

SKYHAWKS CHEERLEADING  Kids learn essential skills to lead crowds, including proper hand and body movements, jumping and choreographed performance skills. Ages 5-12. Summer sessions offered from June-August; see site for complete list of dates and locations. Held at parks and schools in the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area. $79-$225/session. skyhawks.com

SPOKANE ACADEMY OF DANCE SUMMER INTENSIVES  A rigorous summer intensive program with options for beginners and advanced dancers. The intensives feature classes in classical ballet technique, body conditioning, pointe/pre-pointe work, jazz, modern and more. Sessions offered include High Intermediate/Advanced Intensive (July 8-12 and 1519), Intermediate Intensive (July 15-19 and 22-26), Beginning Intensive (July 22-26 and July 29-Aug. 2) and the Mini Intensive (July 8-12) at The Academy of Dance in Spokane. $125-$225/week. spokaneacademyofdance.com

SPOKANE BALLET STUDIO INTENSIVE  An intermediate/advanced session in ballet, pointe, modern and jazz with additional focus on ballet history, pilates, variations and performance. July 15-16 at Spokane Ballet Studio. $550. spokaneballetstudio.com

SPOKANE BALLET STUDIO: CHILDREN’S WORKSHOP  This session covers ballet, jazz and modern, and includes crafts, ballet history, pilates and a mini performance. Ages 8-13. July 8-12 from 10 am-3 pm at Spokane Ballet Studio. $290, $65/day. spokaneballetstudio.com 509-714-3650

TRAMPOLINE & TUMBLING CAMP  Campers enjoy a week of high-flying action featuring instruction on the Tumbl Trak, double mini trampoline, Eurotramp trampoline, rod floor, as well as spring floor and air floor mixed with fun games and activities. Campers learn important skills such as air awareness, progressive tumbling, strength and coordination, as well as flipping and twisting safely. Ages 6+. July 22-26 from 8:30 am-noon at the team facility, Spokane Gymnastics Pines. $239-$349; discounts available. spokanegymnastics.com 509-315-5433

WAREHOUSE DANCE CAMP  A fun, safe environment where kids learn the basics of contemporary dance, modern dance, hip hop and more. Performance for family is on the last day of class. Three sessions offered from June 24-Aug. 9; meets Mon-Fri from 9 am-noon at the Warehouse, Spokane. $159/ week. warehouseathletics.com 509-484-2670

FOOTBALL

GONZAGA PREP FOOTBALL CAMP  This camp is coached by Gonzaga Prep football staff and players. It focuses on offensive and defensive fundamentals as well as the basics of tackling. Boys grades 5-8. July 17-20 at Gonzaga Prep. $80. gprep.com

NFL YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUE  Teams of 5-10 members can register to participate in this summer league, with practice on Tuesdays and league games on Thursdays. Players receive an official NFL

Lego lovers, unite! THE ISAAC FOUNDATION PHOTO

team jersey and flag belt. Coed, ages 5-16. May 28-July 25; register by May 10 to participate, more information online. Practice facilities vary, but all games are held at the Dwight Merkel Sports Complex, Spokane. $149. spokanerec.org

SKYHAWKS FLAG FOOTBALL  Players learn skills on both sides of the football, including passing, catching and defense. Multi-sport combo camps are also offered. Camps take place at parks and schools throughout the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area. Coed, ages 6-12. Camps offered May-August; see site for complete list of dates and locations. $155-$230/session. skyhawks.com

VANDAL FOOTBALL PROSPECT CAMP  A football camp for prospective college-level players; more details TBA. Athletes need to bring their own helmet, shoulder pads, jersey, shorts and cleats. Grades 9-12. Offered June 14, 21 and July 27 from 9 am-1 pm at the University of Idaho Kibbie Dome, Moscow. $112/session. govandals.com/sports

VANDAL FOOTBALL TEAM CAMP  A summer camp for high school players, who can register individually or with their teammates and coaches. Grades 9-12. June 25-27 at University of Idaho, Moscow. $285/participant. govandals.com/sports

VANDAL FOOTBALL YOUTH CAMP  A summer football camp for young players; more details TBA. Grades 2-8. June 17-18, daily from 9 am-noon at the University of Idaho, Moscow. $72. govandals.com

WSU FOOTBALL DAY CAMP  Join WSU Head Coach Jake Dickert, WSU coaching staff and current/former players instruct this one-day camp. Open to athletes entering grades 9-12 or who graduated high school in 2022-23. June 22 (single day camp) from 1-4:30 pm at WSU Pullman. $60. wsufootballcamps.totalcamps.com

WSU SPECIALIST CAMP  A camp designed exclusively for kickers, punters and long snappers. Open to athletes entering grades 9-12 or who graduated high school in 2022-23. June 22 (single day camp) from 4:30-6:30 pm at WSU Pullman.

SOCCER

DRAGON SOCCER TRAINING CAMP  This camp focuses on fundamental skill development as well as competitive team play. Grades K-12. July 15-18 from 9 am-noon (grades K-6) and 12:30-3:30 pm (grades 7-12) at the St. George’s soccer field. $75. sgs.org 509-466-1636

GONZAGA MEN’S SOCCER ACADEMY  This camp welcomes elite youth and junior college players who can showcase their abilities in a small setting and in front of some of the best college staff members in the Northwest. Grades 8+. Sessions offered June 27-28 and June 29-30. See website for full details. $225-$240. zagsocceracademy.com

GONZAGA WOMEN’S SOCCER ACADEMY  This year’s camps include Spring ID Camp (May 18-19; grades 8-12), the College Bound Academy (June 14-15 and July 19-20) Pups Camp (July 8-11; ages 5-12) and Pups Elite Camp (July 17-18; coed, 10-14) All camps are led by Gonzaga Women’s Soccer head coach Katie Benz. $95-$315. gonzagasoccer.com

NIKE SOCCER CAMP  The goal of this camp is to stimulate a love for the game, showing youth athletes how to accelerate their own progress and success. Coed, ages 6-16. July 29-Aug. 1 and Aug. 5-8 with full (9 am-4 pm) and half-day (9 amnoon) options. At Dwight Merkel Sports Complex. $295-$425/ session. ussportscamps.com 800-645-3226

SKYHAWKS SOCCER  A progressional coaching curriculum teaching technical skills and knowledge for all levels of playing experience. Camps are held at local parks and schools throughout the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area. Boys and girls ages 3-12. Offered June-August; see site for complete list of dates and locations. $57-$230/session. skyhawks.com

SUPERTOTS SOCCER  Younger age groups focus on developing motor skills and self-confidence; older classes focus on core soccer skills with an element of light competition. Ages 2.5-5. Sessions offered June through August at parks and schools in the Spokane-Coeur d’Alene area. $57-$126. supertotsports.com Summer

•

•

•

•

•

•

SUMMER CampS

WSU WOMEN’S SOCCER DAY CAMP  A camp with the WSU Women’s soccer team coaches, staff and players, geared toward younger athletes and covering fundamental skills and more. Sessions offered June 19-22 and July 18-21 with half (9 am-noon, ages 5-7) and full-day (9 am-4 pm, ages 8-14) sessions. At WSU Pullman. $160-$275. wsuwomenssoccercamps.totalcamps.com

WSU WOMEN’S SOCCER SENIOR ELITE ID CAMP  WSU Women’s Soccer coaches, staff and players lead this camp designed for competitive players. Girls grades 7-12. July 20-21 at WSU Pullman. $300. wsuwomenssoccercamps.totalcamps.com

VOLLEYBALL

INLAND NW SHOWCASE VOLLEYBALL YOUTH CLINIC  This clinic is led by coaches from Whitworth University under the direction of head coach Kati Bodecker. The camp focuses on the skills and technique necessary to play volleyball through drills, exercises and games that focus on passing, setting, hitting and serving. Coed, ages 8-14. May 11 from 9:30-11:30 am at the HUB Sports Center. $30. hubsportscenter.org

NBC VOLLEYBALL CAMPS  Campers improve skills in passing, defense, serving and hitting, plus develop leadership and confidence. Girls ages 9-18. Resident and overnight options available. Sessions as follows: July 1-3 (middle school, ages 11-14), July 2-3 (intro day camp, ages 9-12), July 29-Aug. 1 (high school, ages 13-18). Camp takes place at Whitworth University. $115$675. nbccamps.com

NORTH IDAHO NBC VOLLEYBALL CAMPS  Campers improve skills in passing, defense, serving and hitting, plus develop leadership and confidence. Girls ages 13-16 and coed ages 9-12. Sessions offered June 17-20 and July 8-11. Camp takes place at the Courts at Real Life. $315. nbccamps.com

PAT POWERS VOLLEYBALL CAMP  A two-day advanced volleyball skills camp taught by Olympic gold medalist Pat Powers with a focus on passing, hitting, setting, serving, defense and more, including beach volleyball tips, athletic scholarships and playing in club volleyball. Coed, ages 11+. Aug. 3-4 from 9 am-2 pm at the HUB Sports Center, Liberty Lake. $160. vbclinics.com

ST. GEORGE’S VOLLEYBALL CAMPS  A camp for aspiring middle and high school volleyball players to work on skill building, teamwork and fundamentals. Coed. July 22-26 from 9 am-noon (grades 9-12) and 12:303:30 pm (grades 6-8) at the Errol Schmidt Athletic Center. $75. sgs.org

SKYHAWKS VOLLEYBALL  Skillbased volleyball camps teach fundamentals of passing, setting, hitting, serving and more for beginning to intermediate players. Camps are held at local parks and schools in the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area. Coed, ages 6-12. Sessions offered June-August; see site for details. $84-$225/session. skyhawks.com

WSU VOLLEYBALL COLLEGE PREP CAMP  This camp offers athletes an opportunity to raise their skill level in a highly competitive setting, and to experience what it’s like to play at Washington State University. A majority of training is focused on skill development specific to players’ designated positions, along with a small training block on general skills like ball control. Coed, grades 9-12. July 13-14 (overnight/commuter options) at WSU Bohler Gym, Pullman. $175-$275. wsuwomensvolleyballcamps.totalcamps.com

WSU VOLLEYBALL INDIVIDUAL ALL-SKILLS CAMP  Athletes can raise their skill level in a highly competitive setting and experience what it’s like to play at WSU. This camp mainly focuses on the development of good, all-around volleyball skills, focusing on ball control, serving and using hands regardless of position. This camp also includes a small training block specific to designated positions. Coed, grades 7-12. July 14-16 (overnight/commuter options) at WSU Bohler Gym, Pullman. $250$395. wsuwomensvolleyballcamps.totalcamps.com

WSU VOLLEYBALL INTERMEDIATE CAMP  This day camp focuses on all aspects of the game with an emphasis on fundamental skill development from the beginner to the more experienced players. Afternoon sessions allow campers to put their fundamentals into action during competitive, game-like drills. Coed, grades 5-8. June 18-19 from 9-11:30 am and 1-4 pm at WSU Bohler Gym, Pullman. $150. wsuwomensvolleyballcamps.totalcamps.com

WSU VOLLEYBALL YOUTH CAMP  This day camp provides a fun opportunity for young volleyball players to learn the fundamentals of the game. Each camper develops skills in passing, setting, hitting and serving. Coed, grades 1-5. June 17-18 from 9-11:30 am at Bohler Gym, WSU Pullman. $75. wsuwomensvolleyballcamps.totalcamps.com

WSU WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL TEAM CAMP  This camp is designed to give high school athletes the opportunity to practice together in a collegiate atmosphere. WSU provides one coach who is a current or former player or camp staff member for each team. The primary focus of the camp is competition and team concepts, along with specific breakout sessions for high school coaches, including setting and team defense. Camp is concluded with the High School Team Tournament

Need Great Childcare for Summer?

(July 19-20). Girls entering grades 9-12. July 12-15 (overnight and commuter options), at Bohler Gym, WSU Pullman. $350$395. wsuwomensvolleyballcamps.totalcamps.com

OTHER SPORTS

BADMINTON SUMMER CAMP  A camp to introduce new players to the sport, and to sharpen the skills of intermediate players. Camp focuses on the fundamentals of badminton in a fun, yet challenging way. Ages 7-17. Sessions offered July 2226, July 29-Aug. 2, Aug 5-9 and Aug. 12-16 from 8 am-3 pm at The Podium. $159. spokanerec.org

CHENEY PARKS & REC MARTIAL ARTS CAMP  Kids learn self-defense, bully-proofing, personal space and traditional karate movements in this camp taught by Kris Wilder, U.S. Martial Arts Hall of Fame member. Ages 8-14. July 29-Aug. 1 from 9 amnoon at Hagelin Park, Cheney. $150. cityofcheney.org

DIAL JONES TENNIS ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP  A tennis camp focused on fundamentals, play based exercises, shot selection, and more. Ages 8-18, all levels welcome. Sessions offered weekly from July 8-Aug. 1, Mon-Thu from 8 am-noon at Ferris High School. $272/week. dialjonestennisspokane.com

DISC GOLF SUPER SUMMER CAMP  Learn and discover new skills and talents, or up your game with personal skill development. Camp concludes with a final tournament and all students receive a disk in this camp hosted by the US Youth Disc Golf Association. Ages 10-16. Sessions offered July 15-19 and Aug. 12-16 from 9 am-noon at the North Spokane YMCA. $129. spokanerec.org

GIRLS ON THE RUN CAMP  An all-girl camp where kids spend the week building friendships, exploring their creativity and playing fun games that keep them moving. Grades 3-5. Several sessions offered at various locations throughout Spokane from July 8-Aug. 2. $250; scholarships available. pinwheel.us

GONZAGA TENNIS CAMP  Gonzaga provides full-day and half-day camp options of match strategy, competitive drills and conditioning. Ages 8-18. July 22-26 from 9 am-12 pm or 9 am-4:30 pm at Gonzaga University’s Stevens Center. $285$550. gonzagatenniscamps.com Become

• Drop Off Day Camp 8:30am-4pm

• Professional Instruction

• Fun Obstacles, Camp Games, Team-Building & Competitions

• Starts June 17th and runs through the summer

• Just $385/week or $85/day

SUMMER CampS

HOCKEY MINISTRIES CAMP  Campers receive instruction on the ice from top coaches and players in the sport, along with other activities including character-building exercises and more, in a Christian, faith-based setting. Coed ages 9-17. July 15-19 at Frontier Ice Arena, Coeur d’Alene. $375-$395. hockeyministries.org 514-395-1717

HOOK A KID ON GOLF  A comprehensive golf program that removes barriers to learn golf rules, etiquette and history. Participants receive their own set of clubs and a manual to keep. Coed, ages 9-14 from 1-3 pm. Location TBD. $300. cityofcheney.org

HULA HOOP CAMP  A camp that mixes hula-hoop, dancing and music. The beginning of each day will focus on a group hooping practice and games. The second half focuses on exploring techniques such as tricks, tosses and more. Coed, grades 5-7. June 22-26 from 9 am-noon at Saint George’s School. $150. sgs.org

INLAND EMPIRE DIVING LEARN TO DIVE CAMP  Learn how to dive with coaches who are experienced in teaching beginners and state champions. Children will learn how to jump, spin and flip into the water in all directions. All ages; must be confident in deep end of pool. June 17-Aug. 22, meets MonThu from 10-11 am at the EWU Aquatic Center or from 5-6:15 pm at the Liberty Aquatic Center. $75/week. inlandempirediving.com 253-355-8975

Week One : Location: SFCC

Dates: July 15 - July 19, 2024

Cost: $489 Theme: Wilderness

Week Two : Location: SFCC

Dates: August 12 - August 16, 2024

IRONWOOD THROWERS CAMP  The 35th annual camp for track and field throwing athletes (discus, hammer, javelin and shot put) offers instruction from notable coaches. July 18-11. Hosted at Ironwood Throwers in Rathdrum, and Post Falls High School. $450, scholarships available. ironwoodcamp.com

KROC CENTER SPORTS CAMP  This half-day program teaches the fundamentals of basketball or soccer and develops skills through games, drills and play. Basketball offered June 17-21, volleyball sessions offered July 8-12 and soccer sessions offered in three-day camps June 17-Aug. 2. Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-12:30 pm at the Kroc Center, Coeur d’Alene. $68-$100. kroccda.org NBC GIRLS LACROSSE  Led by Whitworth women‚Äôs lacrosse head coach Noelle Brouillard, athletes learn the foundations of a strong lacrosse player. Training curriculum focuses on stickwork, ground balls, situational breakdown, man up/ man down, fast breaks, introduction to college play, increasing game speed and knowledge. Ages 14-18. June 22 from 9 am-3 pm at Whitworth University. $160. nbccamps.com

NIKE JUNIOR GOLF CAMP  Campers of all abilities enjoy daily instruction and course play under the direction of WSU’s men’s and women’s golf team coaches and current/former players, along with fun off-the-course activities. Coed, ages 10-18. June 19-22 at WSU, Pullman, with day and overnight options. $695-$1,095 ussportscamps.com 800-645-3226

RECTENNIS CAMP  Each child will be provided with the opportunity to develop tennis and life skills at their own rate in a fun, safe, supportive and encouraging environment. The participants will learn basic tennis skills in a non-competitive atmosphere while playing high energy camp activities and games. Coed, ages 6-12. Sessions offered from July 7-Aug. 2, Mon-Fri from 9 am-noon at Hagelin Park. $175/week. cityofcheney.org

RELATIONAL RIDING ACADEMY HORSE CAMP  A horsemanship program offering half-day riding camps for beginning and experienced riders. Ages 8-12. Helmet, long pants and boots required. Sessions offered June 17-28, July 18-11, July 2226 and Aug. 19-23; meets Mon-Fri from 9 am-noon or 1:30-4:30 pm. Only 25 spots open per session. At Relational Riding Academy in Cheney. $300/session. relationalridingacademy.com

SKYHAWKS GOLF  Camps teach the fundamentals of golf including swinging, putting and body positioning, with all equipment provided. Camps are held at local parks and schools throughout the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area. Coed, ages 5-12. Sessions offered June-August; see site for complete list of dates and locations. $185-$230/session. skyhawks.com

SKYHAWKS LACROSSE  Lacrosse combines basic skills used in soccer, basketball and hockey into one fast-paced game. Boys and girls learn the fundamentals of stick handling, cradling, passing and shooting in a fun, non-checking environment. Ages 6-12. Sessions offered June-August, Held at parks and schools in the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area; see site for complete list of dates and locations. $69-$225/session. skyhawks.com

SKYHAWKS MULTI-SPORT + MINI-HAWK CAMPS  A multisport program to give kids an introduction to sports such as basketball, baseball, soccer, flag football, ultimate frisbee and more. Ages 4-12, with sessions for younger athletes (MiniHawks Camps). Camps are hosted at parks and schools in the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area. Sessions offered June-August; see site for complete list of dates and locations. $93-$155/session. skyhawks.com

SKYHAWKS TENNIS  Camps teach proper grip, footwork, strokes, volleys, serves and game rules and etiquette. Camps are held at parks and schools in the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area. Coed, ages 6-12. Sessions offered June-August; see site for complete list of dates and locations. $69-$185/session. skyhawks.com

SKYHAWKS TRACK & FIELD/CROSS COUNTRY  Using special equipment, exercises and drills, this session prepares athletes for a future in cross-country, track and field events and distance running. Ages 6-12. Sessions offered July-August; see site for all dates and locations. $69-$195. skyhawks.com

TEEN HIKING  Embark on beautiful hikes around Washington and Idaho. All hikes are no longer than 4-5 miles long. Coed, ages 13-17. See website for more. $150. cityofcheney.org

USTA PNW RECTENNIS  RecTennis provides weekly sessions all summer during which kids are active and learn basic skills in a non-competitive atmosphere. Campers learn life lessons and skills, and play high-energy activities and games. Ages 5-14. Sessions offered weekly June 17-Aug. 30 at locations in Spokane/Coeur d’Alene. See website for details. $30-$195. rectennis.com

WAREHOUSE ALL-SPORT CAMP  A fun, safe environment where kids make friends, create lasting memories and learn life skills both on and off the court. Campers enjoy a variety of sports and games designed to keep them engaged and having fun. Lunch is included daily; after-care options also available. Campers enjoy indoor and outdoor play, as well as swimming. Ages 6-12. Sessions offered June 17-Aug. 12; meets Mon-Fri

from 9 am-3:30 pm at the Warehouse, Spokane. $239/week. warehouseathletics.com 509-484-2670

WAREHOUSE JR. SPORT CAMP  A variety of sports and activities to keep your future sports star engaged. Activities include basketball, soccer, floor hockey, kickball, capture the flag and more. Snack is included daily. Ages 4-6. June 19-Aug. 18; times TBA. At the Warehouse in Spokane. $119-$159/week. warehouseathletics.com 509-484-2670

WILD WALLS INDOOR CLIMBING CAMP  Kids learn and experience the sport of rock climbing through bouldering, top roping, knot tying, belaying, slacklining, rappelling, ascending, crate stacking, safety practices, games and more. No experience necessary. Ages 7-14. Sessions offered June 24-28, July 8-12, July 22-26 and Aug. 5-9; meets Mon-Fri from 9 am-2 pm. $350-$400/session. wildwalls.com 509-455-9596

WSU SWIMMING START & TURN CAMP  A camp focused on only starts and turns. The camp touches on open turns, flip turns, bucket turns, forward racing starts, backstroke starts and relay starts. Overnight/residential options. June 28-30 at WSU Pullman. $300-$375. wsuswimming.totalcamps.com

WSU SWIMMING STROKE CAMP  A camp specifically focusing on strokes for swimmers. Each day is dedicated to a new stroke and will focus on drills and technical work. June 23-28, with resident and commuter options. At WSU Pullman. $550$800. wsuswimming.totalcamps.com

CREATIVE ARTS

ANIMAL & STILL LIFE SKETCHING  Kids learn to draw and shade animals and objects realistically using charcoal and pencil. Ages 8-12. July 15-8, Mon-Thu from 9 am-noon at Heather Thyme Art, Spokane Valley. $120. heatherthymeart.com

ANIMAL ART-ANTICS!  Roar, squawk and hiss as you learn about some whimsical artists and their animal subjects. Explore the creative artwork of David Klein, Joan Miro, Laurel Burch, Leo Lionni and more while using art supplies to create your own animal masterpieces. Ages 6-11. July 22-26 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

ART IN NATURE! NATURE IN ART!  Paint, sculpt and draw what you see in nature surrounding the Corbin Art Center. Go on a nature hike and then go back to the art room to work on your project about what you observed. Ages 6-11. July 15-19 from 9 am-3 pm at the Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

ART MEETS SCIENCE CAMP  Kids participate in experiments and projects where art and science collide. Activities include making oobleck and slime, food coloring swirling, painting rainbows and coffee filter chromatography. Ages 5-11. Offered July 8-11 and Aug. 19-22, Mon-Thu from 9 am-noon at Heather Thyme Art, Spokane Valley. $135. heatherthymeart.com

ARTSCI SUMMER DAY CAMP  Classic summer camp games alongside immersive explorations of Finch Arboretum’s diverse ecosystem with hands-on learning blending artistic expression with scientific discovery. Ages 6-11. Offered June 24-28 (Creepy Crawly Camp), July 8-12 (Art and Nature Discovery), July 15-19 (Bug Explorers), July 22-26 (Whimsical Forests & Magical Meadows), July 29-Aug. 2 (Flutter and Crawl), Aug. 5-9 (Branching Out with Nature Art) and Aug. 12-16 (The Final Summer Bash) from 9 am-4 pm. $240/week. spokanerec.org

AUTHORS AND ILLUSTRATORS CAMP  Aspiring authors write and illustrate their own books. They learn how to structure a story, brainstorm ideas and explore different styles of illustration before creating their own books. Ages 6-11. Aug. 5-8, Mon-Thu from 9 am-noon at Heather Thyme Art, Spokane Valley. $120. heatherthymeart.com

BARNYARD PALOOZA!  Each day of camp features a different barnyard animal as the theme of an art project. Create with clay, paper and more while learning fun facts about the animals. Ages 3-5. June 17-21 from 9-11:30 am at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

BEST OF HEATHER THYMEART  Campers participate in creating four favorite projects of past students, including underwater watercolors, slime making and sculpting air dry clay. Ages 4-11. Sessions offered June 24-27 and Aug. 26-29, Mon-Thu from 9 am-noon at Heather Thyme Art, Spokane Valley. $140. heatherthymeart.com

BEST OF SUMMER CAMP  Spend a week enjoying the most popular activities and projects offered during summer 2024’s creative arts camp sessions from Spokane Parks & Rec. Ages 6-11. Aug. 12-16 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $182. spokanerec.org

BLAST OFF INTO SPACE!  Learn about the planets, stars, moons and much more while creating fabulous galactic art. Ages 3-5. July 22-26 from 12:30-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

CAC CRETACEOUS CAMP: A PREHISTORIC ADVENTURE  Learn about paleontology and animals that walked the earth millions of years ago such as dinosaurs, reptiles, fish, birds and more. Then create costumes, crafts and make your own fossils while learning how nature creates them. Ages 6-11. Aug. 5-9 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

CAMP MIXTAPE  Create a mixtape using Garageband. Learn how to add beats, instruments and how to write lyrics. Coed, grades 5-8. Aug. 6-8 from 9:30-11:10 am at Spark Central. Free. spark-central.org

CASTLES, PRINCESSES, KNIGHTS & DRAGONS  Campers make shining armor, shields, helmets, crowns, wands and more in this creativity-focused day camp. Ages 3-5. Aug. 5-9 from 9-11:30 am at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

CHENEY PARKS & REC ART CAMP  Enjoy a colorful week working with textile on canvas, watercolor, and acrylic all tied together with aspects from nature. July 22-26 from 9 am-noon (ages 7-10) and from 12:30-3:30 pm (ages 11-14) at the Wren Pierson Community Center, Cheney. $150. cityofcheney.org

COLORFUL! MESSY! PROCESS ART!  Learn how to come up with art theme ideas, mix colors, apply paint and incorporate found objects into your mixed-media art. Ages 6-11. June 17-21 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

COOKIE DECORATING CAMP  At this daylong camp, students and their adult receive a dozen cookies to decorate using royal icing and newly-learned decorating techniques. Coed, all ages welcome. July 20 from 9 am-noon at Saint George’s School. $50/participant. sgs.org

CREATING WITH CLAY  Campers learn three different hand building techniques and will have the opportunity to throw on the potter’s wheel as well as learn how to underglaze and decorate their work. Coed, grades 4-8. Aug. 5-9 from 9 amnoon at Saint George’s School. $150. sgs.org

DOODLE BUG ART FUN!  This creative camp combines art and the study of insects. Kids learn new ways to make creative insect art. Ages 3-5. June 10-14 from 12:30-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

EARTH SCIENCE ROCKS!  Explore how weather affects our planets, how fossils are made, why rocks are all different shapes and discover the interesting rock formations that surround the Corbin Art Center. Ages 6-11. June 17-21 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

ENVIRONMENTAL SUPERHEROES  Learn how humans impact the environment and what we can do to protect it. This camp also includes some fun recycled and refurbished art projects. Ages 6-11. July 10-14 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $169. spokanerec.org

EXPLORING ARTISTIC MEDIUMS CAMP  Kids use a different artistic medium each day and learn techniques associated with each one. Mediums include chalk pastels, watercolors, construction paper and acrylic paint. Ages 4-12. Sessions offered July 29-Aug. 1, Mon-Thu from 9 am-noon at Heather Thyme Art, Spokane Valley. $130. heatherthymeart.com

FAIRIES, TROLLS & GNOMES IN THE GARDEN  Hunt for elusive garden critters like trolls and fairies around the park and make glittery art inspired by what you find. Ages 3-5. July 22-26 from 9-11:30 am at Corbin Art Center and Manito Park (two locations offered). $89. spokanerec.org

ASHLEY GRANT COVER DESIGN SUBMISSION

Secure your spot and save today at

SUMMER CampS

GIRLS ROCK LAB  Campers join a band, write their own music and perform a concert at the end of camp. This camp welcomes girls, non-binary and transgender kids from any identity or background. Grades 3-8. Sessions offered July 9-12 and July 16-19 from 9-11:30 am; final concert for both sessions July 19 at 6 pm at the Central Library. Free. spark-central.org

GONZAGA PREP ART CAMP  Explore the world of art at Gonzaga Prep. Grades 2-8. June 17-20 from 10 am-noon or 12:302:30 pm at the Gonzaga Prep Art Building. $85. gprep.com

HARRY’S LABORATORY  Immerse yourself in potions, create magical art and cook up magic as you study dragons, magical creatures and wizardry. Ages 6-11. July 29-Aug. 2 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $172. spokanerec.org

HOLY NAMES MUSIC CENTER JAZZ CAMP  Middle school age students learn songs by ear and via sheet music, along with various skills for performing and how to play solo in a jazz style. July 31-Aug. 2 from 10 am-12:30 pm at Holy Names. Price TBD. hnmc.org 509-326-9516

INNOVATIVE ARTIST’S STUDIO  A fine art camp exploring drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture using diverse materials, techniques and other creative processes. Ages 6-11. Aug. 5-9 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

2024

SESSION 1

Junior Camp - AM (Ages 8-12)

July 8th-12th 9 am-12 pm

SESSION 2

Junior Camp - AM

levels. Grades 3-7. July 16-19 from 9 am-2 pm at the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture. $175-$190. northwestmuseum.org

OCEAN EXPLORERS CAMP  Learn about sharks, jellyfish, whales and more. Create sea creatures with paint, paper, clay and recycled materials. Ages 3-5. June 24-28 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

OPEN ART STUDIO  A weeklong camp where kids bring ideas that they want to bring to life using various art materials. Coed, grades 6-12. Aug. 12-16 from 9 am-3 pm at Saint George’s School. $300. sgs.org

ORIGIN STORIES  Campers create a short comic based on a myth, legend or story that inspires them in a supportive, creative environment. Coed, grades 3-8. Aug. 20-23 from 9:3011:30 am at Spark Central. Free. spark-central.org

PAINT YOUR PET/FAVORITE ANIMAL CAMP  A camp for students to attend with their adults. Each child will recreate their favorite photos of animals on a canvas using pencils and paint. Coed, all ages. Aug. 3 from 9 am-noon at Saint George’s School. $50/participant. sgs.orgg

PAINTING EXPLORATION CAMP  Kids spend one day each working with watercolors, gouache, tempera and acrylic paint. Ages 6-12. Aug. 12-15, Mon-Thu from 9 am-noon at Heather Thyme Art, Spokane Valley. $135. heatherthymeart.com

IT’S A BUG’S LIFE!  Have some creative, buggy fun while becoming a garden detective. Then make insect-inspired art projects while learning about these fascinating creatures. Ages 3-5. June 17-21 from 12:30-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

LAVENDER DAZE OF SUMMER  Kids travel to a local lavender farm to learn how it grows and how it is harvested. After collecting lavender, campers participate in various creative projects like making an eye mask and lavender lemonade. Coed, ages 9-16. July 16-18 from 10 am-3 pm at Sew Uniquely You, Spokane Valley. $149. spokanerec.org

LEGO CAMP  Learn how to create and build Lego structures that will move when and where you tell them to. Grades 1-3. June 17-21 from 9 am-noon at Saint George’s School. $150. sgs.org 509-466-1636

$190

Junior Camp - PM (Ages 8-12)

July 8th-12th

1 pm-4 pm

$190

(Ages 8-12)

July 15th-19th

9 am-12 pm

LITTLE ART MASTERS!  Young artists explore art through color, texture and more by creating with paint, crayons, glue and scissors. Ages 3-5. July 29-Aug. 2 from 9-11:30 am at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

$190

Teen Camp - PM (Ages 13-18) th-19th

1 pm-4 pm

$190

Registration is available on our website at www.cytspokane.org/camps

LOOK TO THE STARS  Blast off to outer space and learn about the planets, stars, moons and more while making fabulous galactic art such as designing your own planet with a comic and story. Ages 6-11. July 22-26 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

MAC GET MESSY CAMPS  Get messy with hands-on art and discover your creative side without any worry about making a mess. Squish, splatter, and stomp your way into art as you explore printing, painting and clay molding. Grades 2-6. Sessions offered July 9-12 and Aug. 6-9 from 9 am-2 pm at the MAC. $45-$50. northwestmuseum.org 509-456-3931

MAC TO BASICS: ART ADVENTURES  Campers explore drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture using diverse materials and techniques in a classroom that invites all skill

PASSPORT TO FUN!  Explore countries around the globe, along with their unique animals and cultures. Stamp your passport as you learn and read stories about a new country each day. Ages 3-5. Aug. 12-16 from 9-11:30 am at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

PET ART-O-PALOOZA CAMP  Campers create art projects related to their favorite pets each day at this program designed for animal and art lovers. Coed, ages 6-11. June 24-28 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

DARBY SUMNER COVER DESIGN SUBMISSION

Heather Thyme Art camp students paint watercolor jellyfsh. MAKER + MADE PHOTO

PLUM TREE SCHOOL BIG KID CAMPS  A series of themed five-day camps for children. Each camp focuses on different creative activities including art, storytelling and mindfulness. Camp themes include Water in Nature, Modern Art Club, Nature, Mindful Moments and more. Coed. Ages 7-9. Sessions offered July 8-Aug. 16 from 1:30-5 pm at the Plum Tree School. $160/per camp. plumtreeschool.com

PLUM TREE SCHOOL LITTLE KID CAMPS  A series of themed, five-day camps for young children. Each camp focuses on different creative activities including dance, visual art, storytelling and treasure hunts. Camp themes include Fairies and Elves, Dragon Tales, Nature, Tell Me a Tale and more. Coed, ages 3-6. Sessions offered June 17-Aug. 23 from 8:30 am-12:30 pm at the Plum Tree School. $180/per camp. plumtreeschool.com

PRESCHOOL PICASSOS: BEST OF SUMMER CAMP  This camp features Spokane Parks’ most popular art projects completed throughout this summer’s preschool camp programs. Ages 3-5. Aug. 12-16 from 12:30-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

PROCESS ART CAMP  Kids try out different material while working on various art projects throughout the duration of camp. Coed. June 24-28 from 9 am-noon (grades K-2) and 1-4 pm (grades 3-5) at Saint George’s School. $150. sgs.org

SHAPES, LINES & LANDSCAPES  Learn how to draw, shade shapes, add lines, textures and much more to your drawings with pen, pencil, oil pastels and paint. Ages 6-11. Aug. 12-16 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

SQUIGGLY BUGS & SLIMY SLUGS  Budding entomologists learn about insects, including how they eat, move, work and what makes them special. Read stories, go on nature walks and discover the bugs living around the art center. Ages 3-5. July 17-21 from 12:30-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

STAR STORIES  Campers listen to celestial myths from around the world, learn theater and performance skills, design their own constellations and create a story to go along with it. Coed, grades 2-4. July 30-Aug. 1 from 10-11:30 am at Spark Central. Free. spark-central.org

STOMP CHOMP & ROAR, DINO STYLE!  Explore the world of dinosaurs, reptiles and prehistoric birds through “dino-rific” craft projects and costumes. Ages 3-5. Aug. 5-9 from 12:30-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

SUPER NATURE EXPLORERS!  Discover the world around you and make projects inspired by nature and science, like a leaf project and a volcano. Ages 3-5. Aug. 15-19 from 9-11:30 am at Corbin Art Center and Manito Park. $89. spokanerec.org

SURF & SEA SAFARI  A week of sea-inspired arts and crafts, including animals in the ocean and pirates, mermaids and more. Ages 3-5. June 24-28 from 12:30-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

THINGS THAT GO  Young conductors, pilots, drivers and captains make and test paper tube cars, cork boats and gyrocopters, to name a few. Ages 3-5. June 10-14 from 9-11:30 am at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

UNICORNS, WIZARDS & DRAGONS, OH MY!  Have a magical time creating costumes, crafts and other mythologicalinspired creatures. Ages 3-5. July 10-14 from 9-11:30 am at Corbin Art Center and Manito Park. $89. spokanerec.org

USEABLE ART CAMP  Kids create art that has a purpose through projects like painting a tote bag, making an air dry clay vase, printmaking and cork and bead necklace making. Ages 6-12. July 22-25, Mon-Thu from 9 am-noon at Heather Thyme Art, Spokane Valley. $145. heatherthymeart.com

WANDS, WIZARDS & DRAGONS, OH MY!  Young wizards can make their own wands, creative costume pieces and other magical crafts. Ages 3-5. July 29-Aug. 12 from 12:30-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $89. spokanerec.org

WILD! WILD WORLD OF MIXED-UP MEDIA ART!  Explore mixed-up media art while getting color crazy, layering and combining a variety of materials to create unique art using pens, glue, paint and more. Ages 6-11. Aug. 8-12 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $169. spokanerec.org

EDUCATION

BLOOM COACHING COLLEGE APPLICATION CAMP  A camp for high school students to get a jump start on the college application process while experiencing traditional camp activities. Campers depart with a heightened sense of awareness, confidence, direction, and plan for their future education. Grades 9-12. July 28-Aug. 2 at Lutherhaven facilities. $1,600. youandibloom.com/camp-2024 406-533-5582

BRIXCAMP  Campers experience elements of engineering, coding and design while tackling various themed challenged taught by an experienced STEM professional. Aug. 12-26. At Camp Ka-Mee-Lin facilities. $150. postfallsidaho.org/camp

CAMP INVENTION  Campers team up with friends and fellow peers for hands-on, open-ended STEM activities like designing their own light-up ball game, tackling global water challenges and more. For students entering grades K-6. June 2428 (Moran Prairie Elementary, Spokane) and July 8-12 (Betz Elementary School, Cheney). Programs take place from 9 am3:30 pm. $270-$370; scholarships available. invent.org/camp

CHINESE CULTURE AND LANGUAGE CAMP  Learn Chinese language and culture, read Chinese books, draw, sing, dance, play games and learn to write Chinese letters. July 29-Aug. 2 from 9 am-noon (grades K-2) and 12:30-3:30 pm (grades 3-6) at Saint George’s School. $150. sgs.org

CODE KIDS  Participants learn to use core computer coding concepts on Scratch and collaborate on their projects with their peers. Coed, grades 4-8. Aug. 13-16 from 9:30-11:30 am at Spark Central. Free. spark-central.org

COMMUNITY COLLEGES OF SPOKANE STEM YOUTH

CAMP Dive into the world of science and tech while creating robots, drones, exploring the solar system, physics and electricity. Ages 7-12. Aug. 12-16, daily from 8 am-4 pm at Spokane Community College. $598. ccs.spokane.edu

DISCOVERY ROBOTS SUMMER CAMPS  Campers design and build themed dioramas and robots out of Legos. Grades 1-7. Sessions offered June 24-28 and July 8-12. Hosted at Westminster Congregational UCC Church, Spokane. $180. discoveryrobots.org 509-688-9244

FULL STEAM AHEAD!  Explore where art, nature and STEM collide through activities like making video game pixel art, exploring the power of the sun and crafting with electronics. Grades 2-6. Sessions offered July 23-26 and July 30-Aug. 2 from 9 am-2 pm at the The MAC. $45-$50. northwestmuseum.org

GONZAGA PREP ROBOTICS CAMP  Explore the world of robotics while building and programing robots in fun challenges. Grades 4-8. June 17-20 from 8-10 am, 10 am-noon or 12:302:30 pm at Gonzaga Preparatory School. $85. gprep.com

JUNIOR SATORI CAMP  Embracing a theme rooted in creativity, puzzles and problem-solving, this year’s exploration, “2050: What Will It Be For Me?” invites students to embark on a journey imagining the future they want to experience. Ages 8-11. July 24-28 from 8:30 am-2:30 pm at the Libby Center in Spokane. $295; scholarships available. inside.ewu.edu/satoricamp

LEGO ROBOTICS CAMP  In this camp, students work together to design, build and program a Lego robot to tell a story as it moves across a DIY map. Coed, grades 4-6. July 23-26 from 9:30-11:30 am at Spark Central. Free. spark-central.org

MINDS IN MOTION: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION  Kids learn about forensics, searching for evidence and gathering clues while conducting experiments to solve mysteries more. Coed, ages 7-11. July 29-Aug. 2 from 9 am-noon in the Wren Pierson Community Center. $165. cityofcheney.org

MINDS IN MOTION: RENEWABLE ENERGY  Kids assemble up to five different vehicles, three dinosaurs and two windmills while learning about renewable energy sources. Coed, ages 6-10. Aug. 5-9 from 9 am-noon in the Wren Pierson Community Center. $165. cityofcheney.org

ASHLEY MILES COVER DESIGN SUBMISSION

SUMMER CampS

READY, SET, GO! WRITING CAMP  Campers learn writing and reading strategies as well as science topics by exploring favorite children‚Äôs literature. Grades K-2. Aug. 12-16 from 9 am-noon at St. George’s School. $300. sgs.org

509-466-1636

SATORI CAMP  A camp that allows academically and intellectually talented students to experience their first taste of college. Students choose from a variety of mini-courses to participate in throughout the duration of camp. Campers can choose to stay in EWU dorms or commute. Grades 7-12. July 21-27 from 7:30 am-10 pm at EWU, Cheney. $975-$1,075. Scholarships available. inside.ewu.edu/satoricamp

SPOLANG LANGUAGE CAMPS  A real-time virtual summer session for brand new or beginner Spanish and German language learners. Kids participate in interactive, age appropriate games, song and projects that center around a specific theme. July 8-11 (German only), July 15-18 (German and Spanish offered). Online. Price TBD. spolang.org 509-981-1155

TECH TREK  Tech Trek introduces girls to local successful female STEM professionals while teaching girls that their intellectual skills will grow over time, demonstrating that it’s possible to break traditional female career stereotypes. Qualifying campers should be entering grade 8 in the fall, and girls must be nominated by a teacher. Sessions offered July 14-20 at Pacific Lutheran University. $50 registration fee; campers must be nominated and selected. techtrek-wa.aauw.net

MUSIC

“BE LIKE BIRD” SAXOPHONE CAMP  A camp focused on the foundations of jazz for beginner and intermediate saxophone players. Middle school age and up. Two sessions offered: July 8-Aug. 9 from 10 am-noon (Mon/Wed) or 5:30-7:30 pm (Tue/Thu) at Holy Names. Price TBD. hnmc.org

BAMBINI TODDLER TIME  These parent-toddler classes help prepare kids for preschool and invite families to preview the Nest Community School philosophies. Ages 1-3 years w/ parent. June 24-July 10, Mon/ and Wed from 8:30-10 am at Songbird Music & Arts Studio. $210. amendmusiccenter.com

COUGAR SUMMER MUSIC CAMP  A music camp for wind ensemble, jazz band, string orchestra, musical theatre and concert choir. Open to incoming 8th graders and high school-age students. Overnight and commuter options available. June 23-29 at WSU Pullman. $375-$725. music.wsu.edu

LIONEL HAMPTON MUSIC CAMP  A week of fun and making music. Camp offers specialized instruction, one-on-one study and group classes, with

performances in ensembles and jam sessions. Campers choose elective courses to take each afternoon. Grades 8-12. June 16-22, overnight and day options available. At University of Idaho, Moscow. $400$725. uidaho.edu/LHMC 208-885-6231

MUSIC CONSERVATORY OF SANDPOINT SUMMER ACADEMY  This summer academy focuses on learning the performing arts in a fun and enriching environment. Students may choose from one to four majors including youth orchestra, advanced orchestra, choir, harp, musical theater and instrument art. Ages 8+. Sessions offered July 15-Aug. 18; see site for details. $195-$450. sandpointconservatory.org

MUSIC TOGETHER  A mixed-aged music class for children and their adults. Each week, a trained teach

er leads the class in singing, dancing and playing songs using child-friendly percussion instruments. Ages 0-5 and their adults. Sessions offered June 4-July 9, June 5-July 10 and June 7-July 12 at Songbird Music & Arts Studio. $126/session. amendmusiccenter.com/songbirdmusic

SINGER’S PERFORMANCE WEEK CAMP  This camp features classes in voice technique, acting, Alexander technique, auditioning, resume building, stage movement and more. Ages 15 +. Singers under 15 can enter by audition only. July 15-19 from 12-6 pm at Holy Names. $240-$265. hnmc.org

SONGBIRD PIANO CAMP  Children explore the world of piano in a group setting. No prior piano experience is necessary. Ages 8-12. July 22-26, daily from 9 am-1:30 pm at Songbird Music & Arts Studio. $150. amendmusiccenter.com/songbirdmusic

Emailed director bc website is down

THEATER

ADVENTURES IN DRAMA ACTING CAMP  This class is designed to give students the fundamental building blocks for creating a character. In teaching the essential elements of acting, a diverse set of performance games are played to reinforce important ideas. The final day ends with a showcase performance of scenes from Broadway shows for family and friends. Grades 7-12. July 29-Aug. 2 at University High School. $285. svsummertheatre.com/camps

CAMP CARROUSEL  A theater camp consisting of a new theme each week. Themes for 2024 include “Delightfully Disney” (June 17-21), “Animal Paradise” (July 8-12), “Christmas in July” (July 15-19) and “Broadway Stars” (July 22-26). Coed, ages 8-15. Exact location TBD. $299/week; scholarships and discounts available. cstidaho.com

CHARLIE & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY  Students learn life lessons and foundational theater skills in this weeklong camp which journeys through Willy

Sing your heart out this summer at Holy Names. HOLY NAMES MUSIC CENTER PHOTO

Wonka’s delicious chocolate factory. Children learn the play, practice their parts and perform for family at the end of the week. Grades 4-7. July 8-12 at Ponderosa Elementary School. $250. svsummertheatre.com/camps 509-368-7897

CHENEY PARKS & REC THEATER CAMP  Campers play theater games teaching basic principles of theater: movement, improvisation, memorization, following direction, etc. Stage Left resident artists give a brief interactive presentation on their area of expertise. Campers rehearse a short play to be presented on Friday. Ages 8-12. July 15-19 from 9 am-2 pm at Cheney City Hall. $150. cityofcheney.org

CRUSHING THE CALLBACK AUDITION  In this weeklong masterclass, students are equipped with tips and tricks for navigating their next audition callback. All students will mock audition for High School Musical with a theater song of their choice.Students will then receive a ‚Äúcallback‚Äù for specific roles in the mock production and prepare for their callback accordingly. Grades 7-12. Aug. 5-9 at University High School. $285. svsummertheatre.com/camps

CYT NORTH IDAHO THEATER CAMPS  Weeklong, themed musical theater day camps in a faith-based environment are designed to create a hands-on theater experience focused on building performance skills, self confidence and teamwork. Camps include “CYT Goes to the Movies!”, “The Greatest Show!”, “From Books to Broadway” and “The Little Mermaid Jr.” Ages 5-18. Sessions offered weekly from July 8-Aug. 2 at Prairie Avenue Community Church in Hayden. $235/week. cytnorthidaho.org

CYT SPOKANE: HATS OFF TO BROADWAY  A camp for theater-lovers to hone in their performance skills by performing musical selections from award-winning musicals. Ages 8-18. Sessions offered July 8-12 and July 15-19 from 9 am-noon and 1-4 pm at the CYT Spokane facility. $190. cytspokane.org

DC CONNELLY: PETER PAN  This weeklong musical theater camp features water games, team competitions, fun activities, singing, dancing, acting and more in a faith-based environment. The week culminates in a performance of Peter Pan for friends and family. Ages 6-18. July 22-26 from 10 am-2 pm. Location TBD. $220. dconnellyenterprises.com

DC CONNELLY: TANGLED  This weeklong musical theater camp features water games, team competitions, fun activities, singing, dancing, acting and more in a faith-based environment. The week culminates in a performance of Tangled. Ages 6-18. July 24-28 from 10 am-2 pm. Location TBD. $230. dconnellyenterprises.com

HESPERUS ARTS MUSICAL THEATER INTENSIVE  Training during this session includes voice, dance and acting. Campers also receive a workbook and skills evaluation. This camp is intensive and focuses on performance authority, polishing skills, improv, audition prep and enhancing talent. Coed, ages 12-18. July 8-11 from 9 am-4 pm at River City Church, Spokane. $390. nbccamps.com 800-406-3626

SUMMER CAMPS

One-Day Camps: $50/day | $45/day for members

Get Messy! Art Day Camps

Grades 2-6

July 9-12, Aug 6-9

Clay modeling, painting, marbling, sculpture-building, beading

Weeklong Camps: $190 | $175 for members. Before/After Care: 8–9am, 2–5pm, $12/hour

MAC to Basics: Weeklong Fine Arts Camp

Grades 3-7

July 16-19

Drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture-building for all skill levels

2316 West First Avenue | northwestmuseum.org

Full STEAM Ahead! Day and Weeklong Camps

Grades 2-6

July 23-26, July 30-Aug 2

Choose 1-day camps or a weeklong series. Printmaking; nature-focused STEAM challenges; Rube Goldberg machine building; electronic circuit crafting

DynamicAthleticCenterisafunandexciting placewheretalentandintegritymeet.Withgirls andboysprogramsfromrecreationalto competitivegymnasticsstartingat16monthswe havesomethingtokeepyourkidsactiveandbusy yearround.Registrationforour7weeksummer sessionisgoingonnowweofferclasses,camps, opengym,andmore.Thesummersessionwillbe July8th-August23rd. Registeronlineattodaytoreserveyourspot!

Mention this ad to get a free open gym!

10 THEMED WEEK-LONG THEATRE CAMPS GRADES 2-12

ELEMENTARY PLAY-IN-A-WEEK

TITLES INCLUDE: Charlie & the Chocolate Factory

The Lion, The Witch, & The Wardrobe Super-friends!

The Wizard of Oz & MORE!

MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL

CAMPS INCLUDE: Musical Theatre – Finding Your Voice Adventures in Drama – Acting Camp Crushing the Callback – Audition Camp (High School Musical-Themed)

Need-based scholarships available. For more information and to enroll, visit svsummertheatre.com/camps

QUESTIONS? Email Camp Director Collin Pittmann at collin@icsvpac.com

SUMMER CampS

HESPERUS JUNIOR MUSICAL THEATRE DAY CAMP  This theater camp is designed to help aspiring actors and singers improve their voice quality, gain confidence in their dancing skills and work to become top-level performers in a faithbased environment. Ages 10-18. July 8-11 at River City Church, Spokane. $350. nbccamps.com

MUSICAL THEATRE: FINDING YOUR VOICE  This triplethreat training camp tackles the fundamentals of singing, acting and dance. Led by industry professionals, students develop confidence and stage presence through a groupchoreographed musical number as well as musical theatre duets. Facilitated by Andrea Olsen with guest artist appearances. Grades 9-12. July 22-26 at University High School. $285. svsummertheatre.com/camps 509-368-7897

PETER PAN  Students learn and perform J. M. Barrie‚Äôs story of Peter Pan, a boy who can fly, and his adventures on the island of Neverland with Wendy and her brothers, Tinker Bell, Lost Boys, Piccadillies and the pirate Captain Hook. Grades 2-4. July 15-19 at Ponderosa Elementary School. $250. svsummertheatre.com

REGIONAL THEATRE OF THE PALOUSE SUMMER CAMPS  This year’s RTOP summer camp offerings include “Stepping into the Spotlight” (June 17-21), “Wonderful World of Disney” (June 24-28), “Hollywood Premiere” (July 8-12) and “Broadway Show Review” (July 15-19). June 17-July 19; meets Mon-Thu from 9 am-noon and 1-4 pm, Fri is 9 am-3:30 for all campers. $135. rtoptheatre.org 509-334-0750

SAINT GEORGE’S SCHOOL MUSICAL THEATER CAMP  Explore the world of musical theater and learn hits from Disney’s Frozen. This fast-paced, high-energy camp is appropriate for both beginners and experienced performers. Special guests share different aspects of musical theater, including singing, dancing and acting. Grades 4-9. July 8-12 from 9 am-4 pm at St. George’s School. $300. sgs.org 509-466-1636

SONGBIRD THEATRE CAMPS  These themed camps teach the craft of theater through activities and a final showcase. Themes include “Space” (July 15-19), “Storybook” (Aug. 5-9) and “Circus” (Aug. 19-23), Ages 6-7. Held 8:45 am-noon at Songbird Music & Arts Studio. $180. amendmusiccenter.com/ songbirdmusic

SPOKANE CHILDREN’S THEATRE: A TREE CALLED AESOP  Learn about classic fables like the Tortoise and the Hare while building confidence through participating in theater activities with others. Ages 8-12. July 10-12 from 9 am-3 pm at Spokane Children’s Theatre. $230. spokanechildrenstheatre.org

SPOKANE CHILDREN’S THEATRE: GINGERBREAD GIRL  Learn about and perform classic fairytale stories while building confidence through theater activities with other. Ages 8-12. June 24-28 from 9 am-3 pm at Spokane Children’s Theatre. $230. spokanechildrenstheatre.org

SPOKANE CHILDREN’S THEATRE: HERCULES  Learn the tale of the famous Greek hero, Hercules and build confidence by participating in theater activities with others. Ages 10-13. July 15-19 from 9 am-3 pm at Spokane Children’s Theatre. $230. spokanechildrenstheatre.org

SPOKANE CHILDREN’S THEATRE: STONE SOUP  Spend a week doing exciting theater activities designed to build confidence and enhance creativity with others. The week ends with a showcase for families. Ages 6-8. June 17-21 from 9 am-12 pm or 12:30-3:30 pm at Spokane Children’s Theatre. $115. spokanechildrenstheatre.org

SPOKANE CHILDREN’S THEATRE: THE SLEEPLESS PRINCESS  A princess can’t sleep and calls on everyone in the land to help in this weeklong theater camp aimed at building confidence and theater skills.There is a showcase for families on Friday. Ages 8-12. July 22-26 from 9 am-3 pm at Spokane Children’s Theatre. $230. spokanechildrenstheatre.org

SPOKANE CIVIC THEATRE SUMMER ACADEMY  Three sessions of themed theater camps including “The Cat in the Hat” (July 8-12), “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” (July 22-26) and “Click, Clack, Moo” (Aug. 12-16). Each camp culminates in a performance for family on the last day. Ages 5-8. Each session runs daily from 9:30-10:45 am. $125. spokanecivictheatre.com

SUMMER STAGE DRAMA CAMP  Have fun while learning through imaginative theater activities designed to build confidence and boost creativity on stage and off. Students of all skill levels team up for storytelling, improvisation and acting games. The final day of camp includes a performance for family and friends. Ages 6-11. July 15-19 from 9 am-3 pm at Corbin Art Center. $179. spokanerec.org

SUPER-FRIENDS!  Sunnyville residents desperately need help! Weathergirl has put a spell on the entire town so that it never stops raining. The Super-friends are up to the challenge of taking down Weathergirl and restoring sunshine and smiles

SUMMER CAMPS 2024 SUMMER CAMPS 2024

The Regional Theatre of the Palouse offers a wide array of theater camps. RTOP PHOTO

Kids make meaningful connections at Camp Sparkle.

to Sunnyville once again! Grades 2-4. Aug. 5-9 at University High School. $250. svsummertheatre.com/camps

TEEN CAMP: THE LIGHTNING THIEF  This two-week intensive camp for teens culminates with two weekends of live, full performances in costumes and makeup with props, sets and more. Campers will receive scripts and have an opportunity to work with the musical’s director over the summer, prior to camp starting. Ages 1318. July 29-Aug. 11, meets Mon-Fri from 9 am-5 pm at Spokane Children’s Theatre. Price TBD. spokanechildrenstheatre.org

THE LION, THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE  Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy embark on a mystery tour to the Land of Narnia through the wardrobe. Students learn their parts, practice and perform the play for their families at the end of the week. Grades 3-6. July 22-26 at University High School. $250. svsummertheatre.com/ camps 509-368-7897

THE WIZARD OF OZ  In this classic L. Frank Baum inspired story, a tornado whirls young Dorothy and her dog Toto off to the magical world of Oz. Children learn the play, practice their parts and perform for family at the end of the week. Grades 3-6. June 24-28 at University High School. $250. svsummertheatre.com/camps

SPECIAL NEEDS

ABBA’S CHILD GRIEF CAMP  MiVoden is hosting this camp designed to help grieving children process the loss of someone close to them while also getting them outside to have some fun at camp. Ages 9-16. June 30-July 5 (Ages 9-12), July 23-30 (Ages 13-16). Application required; more at abbas-child.net. Free for qualifying children. mivoden.com 509-242-0506

BEATS & RHYTHMS CARDIAC CAMP  A camp for children who’ve been diagnosed with a cardiac defect, disease or pulmonary hypertension. Campers enjoy swimming, archery, crafts, water activities, a climbing wall, ropes course and much more, all under medical supervision. Ages 9-16. Aug. 15-18. No cost to campers; donations accepted. beatsandrhythms.org

CAMP GOODTIMES  A camp medically-supported by pediatric and oncology physicians and nurses for children affected by cancer. Highlights include college sports team visits, the tie-dye extravaganza, bass fishing day, and a host of typical camp activities. Ages 7-17. July 8-14. Includes day/resident options. Hosted at YMCA Camp Reed facilities, see website for details. ymcainw.org

CAMP JOURNEY  A camp designed for cancer patients and survivors from age 7 to 17. Campers immerse themselves in a fun-filled outdoor camp experience tailored expressly to their needs. Trained oncology staff is on-site 24/7. July 30-Aug. 5 at Ross Point in Post Falls, Idaho. Price TBD. campjourneynw.org

CAMP SPARKLE  A day camp for children and teens who have been impacted by cancer, either from a personal diagnosis or that of a loved one. Campers learn about cancer, participate in therapeutic activities and go on field trips with peers and counselors who have similar life experiences. Coed. Ages 5-17. June 24-28, daily from 9:30 am-3 pm at Manito Park. Free. cancerpathways.org/camp-sparkle

CAMP STIX  A one-week residential camp for youth with diabetes, who have an opportunity to come together and share a traditional summer camp experience at Camp Reed. Ages 9-16. July 23-29. $1,000; scholarships available. stixdiabetes.org

CAMP TWIGS  A day camp for kids with diabetes, during which they’ll learn about living with diabetes, participate in traditional camp activities and meet other kids their age who have diabetes. Ages 6-8. Aug. 2-4 at Camp Dart-Lo facilities in North Spokane. $250; scholarships available. stixdiabetes.org/camp-twigs

LUTHERHAVEN CHAMP CAMP  A chance for campers with disabilities to experience all that summer camp has to offer. Campers are cared for by trained collegeaged staff and paired with young servant-leaders. Activities include swimming, crafts, hikes, Bible studies, singing and more, with extra space and assistance for a fun and safe experience. Ages 8-30. June 23-26 (ages 8-18 and 18-30 only) and Aug. 4-7 (ages 8-21). $115-$310; financial assistance available. lutherhaven.com

LUTHERHAVEN FAMILY CHAMP CAMP WEEKEND  A weekend designed for families who have a child (or children) with developmental or special physical needs. Accessible activities including swimming, hikes, arts and crafts and more in a faithbased setting. Aug. 2-4. $165/adult, $115/youth 4-12. lutherhaven.com

TREK ADVENTURES CAMP  TREK gives neuro-divergent youth the opportunity to partner with peer mentors and executive functioning coaches to learn the skills needed to confidently access their community and demonstrate independence while navigating activities of daily living. Grades 6+. Five sessions offered from June 24-Aug. 1. At Isaac’s Clubhouse, Spokane. $275; scholarships available. theisaacfoundation.org 509-325-1515 n

Home improvement activities can disturb, damage, or destroy building materials that might contain asbestos, potentially exposing you and others to harmful, microscopic asbestos fibers. Whether you do the work or hire it out, all parties are responsible for proper removal and disposal.

Tackle hands-on science activities led by educators from the EnviroKids Club

Explore the incredible world of raptors with the Outdoor Learning Center

Venture into the Solar System with the Mobius Mobile Planetarium

Check out our online summer author series for kids, teens & families

Sign up for Camp Read-a-Rama & enjoy stories, activities, crafts, music & games (also offered in Spanish)

Challenge yourself to read 600 minutes by tracking your reading with Beanstack

CAMP SPARKLE PHOTO

Clubbing with Captain Morgan

Bartender Zach Thomas shares his love for “the world’s most diverse spirit” with Spokane Rum Club

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

In 1650, a lease agreement for 150 acres in St. Philip, Barbados, included “four new strong mastick Indigo flats and four large mastick cisterns for liquor for Rum.” It’s the earliest mention of rum known to date.

You could argue that cachaça, a Brazilian spirit from fermented sugar cane juice, or sīdhu, a fermented sugar cane drink in India, are early predecessors to rum. But the rum that flooded the Americas in the 18th and 19th centuries came from the tradition of the West Indies, the exploitation of European colonizers, the greed of the transatlantic slave trade and royal navies.

But today, decolonized distillers are reclaiming their spirit and experimenting with hyperlocal innovations, making rum “the most diverse spirit in the world” — at least according to Spokane bartender Zach Thomas. Thomas, who’s only a couple years into bartending but already the bar manager at Emma Rue’s downtown, has always had an admiration for the underdog. When he started the steep learning curve of cocktails, he noticed how quickly rum was dismissed — a lesser spirit for

cheap drinks. But its history was sprawling, and its flavor profiles were endless.

So Thomas decided that Spokane needed more rum, making it his personal mission to educate the craft cocktail scene. He founded Spokane Rum Club, a tasting club usually held on the second Sunday of every month dedicated to traveling the world through rum.

“I really fell in love with the story,” Thomas says. “As torrid as it is — we all know that it’s pretty entangled with slavery, right? It’s terrible. But what I really admire about it is the resilience of the people. How we can look back then on how awfully they were treated, and we can look into now about how big of an industry it is — how those people are now running these big corporations for their country.”

For each Rum Club meeting, Thomas chooses three rums, either for their countries of origin, distillation methods or price points. The next meeting is all about pot still rums. Thomas will feature Plantarey Xaymaca Special Dry, Hamilton Jamaican Pot Still Black, and Novo Fogo

Silver Cachaça. Tickets for the two-hour event, which includes 1-ounce pours of each rum, are $35 each.

Don’t know what pot still means? Don’t stress. Thomas preps a Powerpoint to share his research with the group, from distillation processes to native flora and weather patterns. He digs through the dense research so you don’t have to. His copy of Modern Caribbean Rum by Matt Pietrek and Carrie Smith is stuffed full of handwritten Post-it notes with arrows, summaries and exclamation marks. He spends hours reading bartending blogs. He’s adamant that he doesn’t know everything, but his unstoppable enthusiasm has gotten him pretty close.

But the highlight of the group for Thomas is the discussion. Over petite, tulip-shaped tasting glasses, the club talks about what they taste, what they like or what they don’t like. There are no wrong answers here, he assures newcomers.

At each of Emma Rue’s comfy couches and intimate tables, flavor wheels help you find the words to articulate

...continued on page 46

Spokane’s “Tiki Troubadour,” Zach Thomas. YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

what your palate already knows. The colorful cheat sheet offers categories, then subcategories. If it tastes fruity, does it taste like apricot, apple or raspberry? If it’s sweet, is it more vanilla or caramel? You can say it’s earthy, or you can point out notes like grass, hops or dill. Even leather is an option. There’s pretty much no way you could sound stupid.

“No one’s a snob,” Thomas says. “This is just about enjoying rum.”

Of all the spirits, rum especially needs an “intimate introduction,” Thomas thinks. Scotch, bourbon and tequila all have specific places of origin and distillation methods. But rum can be made anywhere in the world as long as it starts with sugar cane. The end results are miles and miles away from each other — literally and figuratively.

Most people think of rum as just a tiki drink, paired with thick syrups, tropical fruits and heavy cream. Unlike a swanky whiskey den or martini bar, tiki bars are as unserious as you get — think inflatable flamingos, Hawaiian shirts and drunk uncles.

Don’t get him wrong, Thomas loves tiki. He runs Tiki Tuesdays at Emma Rue’s and proclaims himself the Tiki Troubadour of Spokane. He can often be spotted strolling downtown in a straw fedora.

“The more people interested in rum, the better,” he says. ““But tiki is a very American thing. Rum is so much more than tiki.”

The two rum cocktails Thomas created for Emma Rue’s spring menu this year are far from unserious. The Lime and Laundry is a milk-washed cocktail, and the Fort-de-France is stirred, not shaken.

As more people join Rum Club, Thomas will be able to bring in more expensive rums, like top-shelf Foursquare bottles or rare agricoles.

Know a rum you want to try but don’t want to buy a whole bottle? Let Thomas know and he might try to source it for the club. The Hamilton featured this Sunday is thanks to a suggestion by a club member a couple months ago.

Every gathering is different, and you can pick and choose with afternoons to join. But once you start learning, it’s hard to stop. Thomas is building a foundation now and hopes the club will get nerdier as people get more excited.

But no matter where the conversation goes, Thomas’ core convictions stay the same.

“I just like things that taste good,” he says. And, of course, “rum is best shared with friends.” n

Taste Barbados’ finest and more at Spokane Rum Club.

ANYTHING BUT CIVIL

Civil War serves up a reckless exploitation of the American political climate that refuses to take a side

BY MARYANN JOHANSON

If we could possibly pinpoint a single solitary reason why the United States has gone to shit in recent decades, it might be the “philosophy” that’s gripped what has been passing for journalism for far too long: the notion of false balance — that there are two sides to every story and that both of these sides are equally valid, even when that is not remotely plausible.

This is the milieu in which writer-director Alex Garland’s (Ex Machina, Annihilation) spineless dystopian action drama Civil War is perfectly happy to sit. Here, the United States is mired in an internecine conflict of unspecified origin. We are given brief glimpses of a speech by the American president (Nick Offerman) as he rails against the insurrectionist “Western Forces” of “Texas and California,” two states that almost anyone paying attention to the actual current tinderbox situation in the real U.S. would reasonably presume would be on opposite sides of any profound societal rift. But we hear nothing from the Western Forces in the film. The lack of context for anything and everything occurring here feels like utter cowardice on Garland’s part, a default to the ruinous both-sides-ism that pretends that every perspective must be equally worthy. Why is America at war with itself? Probably good reasons on all sides? Bullshit.

But it gets worse. Civil War is not about the conflict but about the reporters covering it: photojournalist Lee (Kirsten Dunst), her professional partner Joel (Wagner Moura) and their tagalongs — newbie Jessie (Cailee Spaeny) and veteran Sammy (Stephen McKinley Hender-

son). They’ve heard rumors of an impending assault on Washington, D.C., by the Western Forces, and so they’re gonna hit the road from the battle they’ve just covered in New York City in the hopes of reaching D.C. in time to catch some good pics.

Garland thinks he’s championing journalists here, and to a tiny degree, he is: The cast is beyond terrific, but they deserve a far more courageous and insightful movie than this one. Spaeny is physically unrecognizable from her turn as a very young Mrs. Elvis Presley in last year’s Priscilla, but Jessie is psychologically similar in how she balances a spunky youngster’s enthusiasm against the awful realities she will encounter that will shock her out of her naivete. Dunst carries the heavy weight of a war photographer’s experience with a weary sort of horror. Her Lee explicitly states that, basically, she never imagined that the nightmares she had captured overseas would be repeated at home.

Rated R

tempting to do. Are they aiming for an impossible “view from nowhere,” that faux objectivity of modern reportage that is so damaging? Or do they intend something more meaningful for their work? Garland’s own view from nowhere is an immense disservice to his characters.

CIVIL WAR

Directed by Alex Garland Starring Kirsten Dunst, Cailee Spaeny, Wagner Moura

There is some power in Civil War, especially visually. One image that sticks is of a crashed military helicopter in a shopping mall parking lot — a potent shattering of casual American capitalism and of the relative calm and stability that allows it.

There is a value, too, in a knock to American cultural complacency. It depicts the sort of civil unrest and outright urban warfare that we are all too used to seeing on the news happening in other faraway places (and often with the complicity of the U.S. government), but places it on American soil. It should be a wakeup call alerting us to the very dangerous situation the U.S. is in right now.

But these journalistic characters exist in a larger context — one that they understand, but one that we lack. They know — because of course they do, they live in this world — what the multiple sides of this conflict stand for. (The U.S. seems to be split onto more factions than just two, but it’s difficult to tell.) Denying that context to those of us digesting their stories is not only unfair to viewers, but unfair to the characters. We cannot make any sort of determination about what kind of journalism they are at-

But instead of being resonant, Garland gives us something dangerously irresponsible: a movie with Hollywood gloss — “experience it in IMAX” — at an incredibly precarious moment for the United States, when small-scale insurrection has already happened and wider conflict does not seem impossible. Civil War has nothing interesting or new to say about the journalism at its center, and its pretense of “objectivity” lacks any meaningful focus.

Civil War makes me genuinely angry in a way that few movies ever have. n

A Tangled Web

The spider horror movie Sting is less than the sum of its influences

BY JOSH BELL

Writer-director Kiah Roache-Turner spends too much time on the relationships of the main characters in his creature feature Sting for them to just be anonymous monster food, but he doesn’t give them enough depth or charm to make the effort worthwhile. That’s the frustrating paradox of a movie that attempts to emulate classic Amblin-style family fantasy films like Gremlins, but also wants to fully earn its R rating with brutal, nasty kills. The result is neither affecting nor scary, just annoying and predictable. There are no genuine emotions or genuine shocks in Sting

Rated R

deaths begin. Roache-Turner uses an appealing mix of practical and CGI effects to make the most of his limited budget, and there are some decent gross-out moments once the body count starts rising. Those moments are too infrequent for Sting to be a satisfying gonzo gore-fest, though, and the humor is similarly sporadic and underwhelming.

STING

Directed by Kiah Roache-Turner

Starring Alyla Browne, Ryan Corr, Penelope Mitchell

After an opening flash-forward that promises plenty of gore to viewers who can sit through the next 40 minutes of tedious family drama, the movie begins with 12-year-old Charlotte (Alyla Browne) discovering what looks like a small spider in a locked room in her grandmother’s apartment, where she’s been snooping around. She’s a sanitized movie version of a weird little girl, so she takes it home with her. What Charlotte doesn’t know, however, is that her new pet isn’t really a spider, but rather some kind of spider-like alien that hitched a ride on a passing asteroid.

The whiny, defiant Charlotte is meant to be an endearing heroine, but she’s mostly an irritating brat. When her stepfather, Ethan (Ryan Corr), assures her late in the movie that none of the terrible preceding events are her fault, he’s entirely wrong. Charlotte eagerly feeds the spider she dubs Sting (after Frodo’s sword in The Lord of the Rings) a steady diet of cockroaches, watching it grow at a freakishly accelerated rate. She doesn’t seem bothered when it mimics sounds that she makes, or by the fact that it matches no known spider species when she searches for it online.

The opening scene has already revealed that Sting is going to start killing people, so much of the movie is just marking time until the gruesome

Aside from Charlotte and her family — which also includes mom Heather (Penelope Mitchell), baby brother, grandmother and great-aunt — there appear to be only two other residents in the unconvincingly Brooklyn-set apartment building. This kind of cramped single location is often a reliable source of suspense, but Roache-Turner makes poor use of the space, never providing any significant obstacles for the characters as they flee from danger.

Charlotte and her parents have lots of downtime to argue with one another, making them increasingly less sympathetic just as they start to fight back against the monster that’s stalking them. Browne and Corr are equally grating as needy, self-pitying people whose inevitable reconciliation is hollow rather than heartwarming. The longer they’re around, the easier it is to root for them to get eaten by a giant spider.

Once Sting grows large enough and starts to roam free, the movie trades its Amblin influences for equally uninspired homages to movies like Alien and Predator. At one point, the tiresome comic relief exterminator Frank (Jermaine Fowler) even observes that if the spider can bleed, they can kill it. But Frank himself is just a retread of John Goodman’s memorable exterminator character in Frank Marshall’s spider-filled Amblin movie Arachnophobia (another obvious touchpoint). Roache-Turner has clearly seen a lot of horror movies, but the references in Sting just remind viewers that they could be watching one of those superior classics instead. n

This movie bites

Kampen Out in Nature

Singer-songwriter Andrea von Kampen conceptually communes with nature on her new album Sister Moon

BY SETH SOMMERFELD

We live in an age of too many recommendations

The modern small talk conversation has been engulfed by pop culture chatter about recent bingeable content and insistent nagging about how you just have to watch/read/listen to the latest and greatest new thing your conversation partner has just devoured. It can be frankly exhausting. Folk singer-songwriter Andrea von Kampen is keenly aware of this, so she went the extra mile to make one of her suggestions stick.

After falling in love with a certain book, she decided to use it as a jumping off point for her brand new album, Sister Moon

“It really started with reading The Overstory by Richard Powers. Anytime I read a great story, I’m kind of always thinking like, ’How can I share this? What can I do?’ And mostly it just turns into me telling people, ’Oh, read this book or watch the show,’” says von Kampen. “But for this one, so many of these words that he’s saying, so many of these lines could sing really well. This could be more than just a book, I thought.”

The Pulitzer Prize-winning The Overstory follows a collection of disparate characters who, united by their experiences with trees, come together to try to stop deforestation. Sister Moon directly pulls some lines for the text and becomes a meditative folk reflection on climate change and humankind’s relationship with the earth.

“It’s about the interconnectedness with nature — kind of how humans can integrate into the world in a way that’s more in harmony with the earth, and then just digging deeper into the point of why we’re here,” says von Kampen.

As the Lincoln, Nebraska-based von Kampen reflects on the beauty of the natural world, the melancholy of its current state and greater existential meaning, Sister Moon sonically settles into a warm and welcoming pocket of melodic folk. There’s a soft confidence to von Kampen’s voice throughout — both casually welcoming and steadfastly resolved. It never feels like she is searching for what to say, but things also never seem belabored and forceful. The musical backing only adds to the aura, keeping things simple and never overwhelming the ear with too many layers. The singer-songwriter’s acoustic guitar lays the base, with minimal percussion and piano adding color. The occasional injection of brass notes (“Cedar Street”) or pizzicato string plucking (“Such Love Does”) give the album the slightest dose of aural diversity without feeling out of place.

One might assume trying to thematically tie together a large assemblage of songs would be a tricky task for a songwriter, but the process of making Sister Moon actually put von Kampen more at ease

because the collective connective tissue ends up filling in the gaps.

“It’s almost easier to write the songs about these types of topics, because the songs are sort of like poetry. So you don’t have to be overly specific or pedantic with what you’re trying to say. You can kind of give more of an impression of what you’re trying to say,” says von Kampen.

In terms of songcraft, there’s something seemingly contradictory about von Kampen’s lyrics. Her songs feel super lyrically dense, despite often being rather sparse and impressionistic. Take, for example, the start of Sister Moon’s “Cedar Street”: “She lived in a college town on Cedar Street / A tree in the front yard that once covered the earth / Wet from a shower, turns off the light / Dead for a minute, then comes back to life / She moved from that eastern town somewhere on Cedar Street.” It’s both specific and ethereal, fitting for someone who is more than happy to let her songwriting stories slow burn in a listener’s mind.

“I think the songs are approachable in the way they’re produced and the melodies. I try to write melodies that are captivating and interesting. When it comes to the lyrics, my philosophy has always been to say the least amount, but mean the most. Just cut all the fat and just say as little as you can to get the point across,” says von Kampen. “I’m not really concerned with the lyrics being

FOLK

Andrea von Kampen taps into a timeless feel. JOSLYN VICTORIA PHOTO

approachable, I would way rather get somebody in because of the genre, the aesthetic, or the vibe, and then 10 listens in they might be like, ‘Whoa, what is the song about?’ That’s way more interesting to me than writing something right off the bat that everyone immediately can relate to.”

That sort of sentiment speaks to von Kampen’s folk roots. Inspired by the likes of Paul Simon, James Taylor, Laura Marling, Sufjan Stevens and Elliott Smith, she’s one of those artists who seem like such a natural fit in the folk realm that it’s almost hard to imagine her doing anything else. She cherishes what being a folk artist can mean, and that’s why she pushes back against the virality trends some modern folk singers try to chase.

“Folk is such a broad genre. And I think that there’s a lot of different types of musicians existing in this genre,” says von Kampen. “But I really like music that has some sort of event to it. I think that we can get stuck with a lot of music that sounds similar right now. And with TikTok driving so much of the music trends, I kind of feel like people are just writing for 30 seconds instead of writing for a 30- to 40-minute album. And the songs feel really disjointed and incomplete. Like, I’ll love a hook, but I hear the whole song and I’m like, ‘Oh, these verses just feel so phoned into me.’”

“What’s so great about the folk genre is that it comes out of such an honest place of storytelling. And that is something that I can really appreciate in my fellow songwriters who are making great music these days,” she continues. “Like a song comes on, and you just know from start to finish that this meant something, this is telling a story. This writer didn’t sit down and say, ‘Okay, what’s the catchiest 10-second melody I can come up with and what’s a catchy, relatable lyrical thing?’ No, this person sat down and wrote something that was truthful for them, start to finish. I’m a little biased, but that’s what I like.”

She thinks there’s still value for listeners to fully dive into a concept album like Sister Moon, despite increasingly dwindling attention spans.

“This is my third full-length album, and this is the only one that’s been a concept album. And it’s been cool to see fans kind of approach it as such. They’re kind of seeing the full picture as they listen from start to finish,” says von Kampen. “In a world now that’s become so driven by 30-second sound bites, it’s really refreshing to know that people are actually sitting down and listening to and liking the full thing.”

That said, being a folk musician is still a job, and von Kampen isn’t some type of snobby purist who loses sight of that. She recorded commissions for everything from Shakespearean productions in her hometown (Romeo & Juliet) to a British hardware company (a popular cover of Alphaville’s “Forever Young”). She’s also taken her musical and acting talents to the big screen — costarring and writing the music for the 2022 film A Chance Encounter, where she plays a one-hit singer-songwriter who has retreated to a small Italian town and becomes entangled with an adrift tourist poet.

But von Kampen remains much more focused on the music than trying to be an actor. In support of Sister Moon she’ll head to Spokane for a show at the District Bar on April 16. Despite her Middle America roots, she has spent time in our neck of the woods, as showcased in her song “Portland,” one of her most popular tunes off her first album, Old Country

“I was inspired after my first time driving from Nebraska to Portland. I’d spent a lot of time in the Midwest and hadn’t never been to the PNW. And it’s a beautiful area. I found it to be inspiring,” says von Kampen. “In the song, Portland is more a metaphor for something. But, I mean, Coeur d’Alene is just beautiful. I love that lake. I love walking in that town. I’ll always try to stop in Coeur d’Alene and walk around when I’m touring.”

So if you happen to see von Kampen strolling around Coeur d’Alene, don’t be shocked. Maybe she’ll even offer up a book recommendation. n

Andrea von Kampen, Sarah Walk • Tue, April 16 at 8 pm • $15 • 21+ • The District Bar • 916 W. First Ave. • sp.knittingfactory.com

BLUES COEUR D’ALENE BLUES FESTIVAL

J = THE INLANDER RECOMMENDS THIS SHOW

J = ALL AGES SHOW

Thursday, 4/11

J THE BIG DIPPER, Vilegloom, Bare King, Disease & Depraved

BOLO’S BAR & GRILL, Bay 7

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Thursday Night Jam

CHECKERBOARD TAPROOM, Weathered Shepherds

THE DISTRICT BAR, Charlie Parr, The Lowest Pair

HEARTWOOD CENTER, David Raitt & the Baja Boogie Band

J MCCRACKEN’S PUB AND BBQ, Nate Ostrander

PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Matt Lome

J QQ SUSHI & KITCHEN, Just Plain Darin

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Hip-Hop Night

ZOLA, The Rub, Jason Lucas

Friday, 4/12

AK ASIAN RESTAURANT, Nate Ostrander

J BING CROSBY THEATER, Petty Fever

BOLO’S BAR & GRILL, Sonic Groove

THE CHAMELEON, Taste the Rainbow

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Kat Heders

CHINOOK STEAK, SEAFOOD & PASTA, Kicho

J THE COEUR D’ALENE RESORT, Coeur d’Alene Blues Festival

THE DISTRICT BAR, Flotsam and Jetsam

J THE GRAIN SHED, Haywire

INLAND KAVA BAR, Son of Brad IRON HORSE (CDA), JamShack

JOHN’S ALLEY, David Raitt & the Baja Boogie Band, Peter Rivera

R&B TORI KELLY

MOOSE LOUNGE, Loose Gazoonz

J PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Heat Speak

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs

THE RIDLER PIANO BAR, Just Plain Darin

J SPOKANE EAGLES LODGE, Into the Drift Duo

ZOLA, Lucas Brown and Friends

ZOLA, Mister Sister

Saturday, 4/13

BARREL 33, Dario Ré

J THE BIG DIPPER, Blistered Earth

BOLO’S BAR & GRILL, Sonic Groove

BOTTLE BAY BREWING CO., Son of Brad J CAFE COCO, B

THE CHAMELEON, Emo 2000

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Bay 7

CHECKERBOARD TAPROOM, Little Gospel Devils, Mystic Mountain

CHINOOK STEAK, SEAFOOD & PASTA, Kicho

J THE COEUR D’ALENE RESORT, Coeur d’Alene Blues Festival

J CREATE ARTS CENTER, Patrice Webb, Lyle Morse, Brad Keeler

IRON HORSE (CDA), JamShack

JOHN’S ALLEY, Snacks at Midnight

J KNITTING FACTORY, Set It Off, Crown the Empire, Caskets, DeathbyRomy

MOOSE LOUNGE, Loose Gazoonz

PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Weibe Jammin

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs

There are many signs that spring is upon us: the sun emerging from hibernation, flowers blossoming, birds chirping, allergies flaring and — for a certain sect of music lovers — the arrival of the Coeur d’Alene Blues Festival. The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s annual bash brings a host of talent together for a weekend of varied musical experiences. While Saturday night’s “Five Band Festival” — featuring soulful powerhouse headliner Sugaray Rayford (pictured) and locals like Justyn Priest — may be the straightforward main event, there is also a blues cruise on the lake, a bourbon and blues shindig, a Sunday blues brunch, and free lounge performances. The artists may be singing the blues, but Blues Fest attendees certainly won’t be.

— SETH SOMMERFELD

Coeur d’Alene Blues Festival • April 12-14, times vary • Free-$75 • The Coeur d’Alene Resort • 115 S. Second St. • cdabluesfestival.com

Singer Tori Kelly has certainly packed more variety into her career than your typical performer in her early 30s. She appeared on Star Search as a kid, became a hit on YouTube as a teen, made it to Hollywood on American Idol, reached No. 2 on the Billboard charts with debut album (2015’s Unbreakable Smile), earned a Grammy nomination for best new artist only to shift genres and win the Best Gospel Album Grammy for 2018’s Hiding Place, and has sung alongside legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli. Heck, if you have kids, they may even recognize her as the voice of Meena the elephant from the movie Sing. Kelly’s now leaning into a swagger befitting her impressive pipes with the throwback late ’90s R&B sound of her brand new album, Tori.

— SETH SOMMERFELD

Tori Kelly, Zinadelphia • Wed, April 17 at 8 pm • $30-$200 • All Ages • Knitting Factory • 919 W. Sprague Ave. • sp.knittingfactory.com

J SIRINYA’S THAI RESTAURANT, Nate Ostrander

ZOLA, Mason Van Stone ZOLA, Blake Braley

Sunday, 4/14

J THE COEUR D’ALENE RESORT, Coeur d’Alene Blues Festival HOGFISH, Open Mic

J SOUTH HILL GRILL, Just Plain Darin

Monday, 4/15

J THE BIG DIPPER, Great American Ghost, Tomb Ripper

EICHARDT’S PUB, Monday Night Blues Jam with John Firshi

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Open Mic Night

Tuesday, 4/16

J THE BIG DIPPER, Electric Chair, Psychic Death, Simp, Reaping Fields

J THE DISTRICT BAR, Andrea von Kampen, Sarah Walk ZOLA, Jerry Lee and the Groove

Wednesday, 4/17

J THE BIG DIPPER, Dancing Plague, Bitwvlf, Lost Masters

THE DISTRICT BAR, Dead Poet Society, Sunfish

THE DRAFT ZONE, The Draft Zone Open Mic

IRON HORSE (VALLEY), PJ Destiny

J JJ’S TAP & SMOKEHOUSE, Brassless Chaps

J J KNITTING FACTORY, Tori Kelly, Zinadelphia

PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Peter Lucht RED ROOM LOUNGE, Red Room Jam

J TIMBERS ROADHOUSE, Cary Beare Presents

J ZEEKS PIZZA, Gil Rivas ZOLA, Aspen Kye, Ariel Collins

COMEDY FOR SHORTS & GIGGLES

When was the last time you laughed really hard? So hard that you clutched your chest and doubled over with joy? If it’s been a hot min, think about attending the Spokane Comedy Film Festival. Founder Josiah Carlson (above) hosts this two-night comedy film extravaganza for the third year in a row at the newly rejuvenated Garland Theater. It features a smattering of short-form comedy films made by local comedians and filmmakers. (Carlson also hosts Funny Funny Funny, Joke Joke Joke, a once-monthly local comedy showcase, so he’s well-connected to the funny guys, gals and pals of the local comedy scene.) Carlson always has a special something up his sleeve for attendees. So this year, each ticket comes with a pair of 3D glasses. For what? You’ll have to wait and laugh a lot to find out.

— MADISON PEARSON

Spokane Comedy Film Festival • Fri, April 12 and Sat, April 13 at 7 pm • $10 • Garland Theater • 924 W. Garland Ave. • spokanecomedyfilmfestival.com

MUSIC GETTING ANIMATED

Cartoons and symphonic delights have gone hand in hand basically since animation’s origins. Heck, the technical term for mirroring action on screen with the sounds of score is literally “Mickey Mousing.” But while Disney’s icon may be part of the lexicon, it’s Warner Bros.’s hand-drawn star that has served as many children’s intro to the realm of classical music. Bugs Bunny is actually one of the genre’s premiere ambassadors, with loads of hilarious cartoon shorts directly centering on music — from being a conductor so animated that he puts Leonard Bernstein to shame (“Baton Bunny”) to the intro to opera masterpiece that is “Rabbit of Seville.” The Spokane Symphony’s latest Pops concert, Bugs Bunny at the Symphony, features the classical ensemble playing along with 16 Looney Toons classics for the most family-friendly day at the Fox imaginable. That is what’s up, doc.

— SETH SOMMERFELD

Spokane Symphony: Bugs Bunny at the Symphony

FOOD HELPFUL HELPINGS

What’s the only thing better than local chefs, raffles, appetizers, dinner, silent auctions and live music? Supporting local hospitality workers, obviously. Thank goodness you don’t have to choose. CDAide’s annual Care Affair at the Coeur d’Alene Resort has all the trimmings of a beautiful gala, plus the satisfaction of supporting those who spend their whole lives serving others. CDAide exists to be a safety net for food industry workers who too often have nowhere else to turn when crisis strikes. Proceeds from ticket sales and silent auctions — which include items like local wine, rounds of golf, landscaping services, coffee, hair cuts, moving help, dinner at Anthony’s and a cruise — help provide the long-lasting relationships and resources that keep important people in our lives safe and out of homelessness.

— ELIZA BILLINGHAM

• Sat, April 13 at 7:30 pm

• $47-$100

• The Fox Theater

•

1001 W. Sprague Ave.

• foxtheaterspokane.org

CDAide Care Affair • Thu, April 11 from 5-8:30 pm • $75 • The Coeur d’Alene Resort • 115 S. Second St. • cdaide.org • 208-7654000

GET LISTED!

Submit events online at Inlander.com/getlisted or email relevant details to getlisted@inlander.com. We need the details one week prior to our publication date.

THEATER PRESERVING PERFORMANCE

Spokane Valley is slowly becoming its own theatrical hub in the Inland Northwest. For the past year, the new Idaho Central Spokane Valley Performing Arts Center has been under construction, and with its completion projected in 2025, fundraising efforts have taken center stage. Folks attending this Wednesday night benefit can expect dinner, drinks and a silent auction. Attendants will also get a sneak peek at some of the music in Spokane Valley Summer Theatre’s 2024 Divine Season 9, which includes Rodgers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story and the fourth annual Rising Stars showcase. All proceeds from the benefit go directly towards the construction of the upcoming performing arts center.

— COLTON RASANEN

Some Enchanted Evening • Wed, April 17 from 5:30-8:30 pm • $100 • CenterPlace Regional Event Center • 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley • icsvpac.com

WORDS WHAT IN THE WORLD

Some of the most entertaining stories are those that are borderline unbelievable: unsolved crime cases, sensational miracles, Bigfoot sightings. These kinds of stories make us question just “what on Earth” is going on, which just so happens to be the theme for Pivot’s next main stage event. Six local storytellers share peculiar, astonishing and bizarre stories as a part of Pivot’s live storytelling series that takes place quarterly. Created by Spokane community members, Pivot brings people together through stories that allow us to bond over our shared humanity. Stories are true, memorized and typically about eight minutes long. Drinks are also available from Overbluff Cellars. Come to be perplexed and hear some out-of-the-ordinary tales.

— LUCY KLEBECK

Pivot: What On Earth

• Thu, April 18 at 7 pm

• All ages

• $10 suggested donation

• Washington Cracker Co. Building

• 304 W. Pacific Ave.

• pivotspokane.com

• 208-820-4229

I SAW YOU

LIGHTEN UP Hey Nick, ever since you replaced the bald guy as editor of the Inlander, I’ve been struggling to figure out who you remind me of. Then, about a week ago it hit me — remember how some packs of matches used to have that face on the inside of the cover, with the words, “Draw Me”?

YELLING WON’T MAKE YOU A BETTER DRIVER Turning right from Lincoln Road onto Standard Street, you shouted, “You have to stop for the stop sign, too!” Which tells me that you don’t know what you’re talking about, but also that you weren’t paying attention. For the last four years, SB 6208 has dictated that cyclists may treat stop signs as yield signs. So if there isn’t oncoming traffic they may proceed. None of that is relevant though because I signaled a stop, stopped and signaled a right hand turn. You just threw a fit because you got startled. Maybe you’d have noticed if I texted my traffic signals instead.

CHEERS

THANK YOU FOR THE POTHOLE FIX Thank you whoever did the street fixing on 29th and Thor. It was an absolute hazard so we are grateful. Dear city of Spokane, please consider throwing some asphalt on it? The potholes get so severe it is causing irreparable damage to our vehicles. Not to mention a small child could drown in one of

those beasts when it rains. Anyway, thank you... and asphalt please?

TO CALLING OUT RACISM IN COEUR D’ALENE I witness racism so often in Coeur d’Alene that I no longer enjoy going there. Thanks to all who speak up about it.

LABOR AND DELIVERY ANGELS To Sabrina and Ellie, two of the nurses at Deaconess in labor and delivery, your kindness and compassion while caring for me during a devastating miscarriage made me feel so much comfort during a traumatic time. You held my hand and cried with me, hugged me and really cared for me. I didn’t even know you but felt like I couldn’t have done it without you. I’ve thought about both of you every day in the week since. You make a difference with what you do. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Please know that I’m doing okay and have hope for my future family.

JEERS

CROSSWALK CHAOS To the woman in the black truck who honked at me on Easter while I was stopped for people in a crosswalk: You acted irresponsibly and impatiently by speeding around me then slamming on your brakes. You need to cool off and be more aware. I was stopped for the pedestrians, not sitting there playing on my phone! Next time your hothead might cause an accident.

CARICATURES AND BIGOTRY

The recent Wilson Elementary School incident is a recurring Music Department theme. Lest we forget the September 2000 homecoming halftime musical rendition of “Custer’s Last Stand” at Joe Albi Stadium, or a decade later, Lewis and Clark High School playing Bob Dylan’s “Oxford Town” (read the lyrics) over the intercom to encourage East Coast college applications. Now Wilson Elementary School students are encouraged to come dressed as “slaves, hobos, or dressed for a night out at the jazz clubs”. What’s next? An authentic Jefferson Elementary School cotton harvest? What song should be performed? There is an easy solution for this culture of accepted stereotypic bigotry. Allow it no place or standing, allow no hindsight excuses.

DEAR ABLE-BODIED PEOPLE

There’s a reason I walk slow: I am disabled. I walk

with a cane and I can’t go faster. You think watching all my friends and family walking without issue and running isn’t painful to me, a 32-year-old guy? Don’t you think I’d like to go a little faster? It’s not just the idiot in Fred Meyer that pushed me out of the way so he could flee to Starbucks to get his latte, or the many people that won’t reel their dogs in when they see me coming. It’s everyone who forgets that we are here and treats us like a background piece until helping us will bring them some sort of clout. “Oh look at me, I’m helping this poor disabled man cross the street!” And then go back to ignoring us. I am sick to death of

stupidest thing I have ever heard! Spokane Valley is growing faster than you know, and on any given day at rush hour the road is packed! I think you need to replan your idea! Especially when you are spending so much money on the concrete and light fixtures that will be destroyed in a day!

SO MUCH MONEY FOR WHAT? The bus stops along Sprague are the most redundant thing I have ever seen the City of Spokane Valley do. Why spend more money and time on something that will be torn out in two years at most! Help our system like Europe, not like Spokane.

rest of the day. Trauma is fun that way. There is never a valid reason to park in a stranger’s driveway, but please let this serve as food for thought on how it could be much more harmful than you knew. Visiting your homie? Park at their place. Hell at least bring booze next time, I could use a shot after all that.

RE: 2022 LICENSE TABS You are right on about those who do not get their license tags renewed. Every day I see at least 15 cars that have 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and they are driving nice cars, too! I get mad thinking how I obey and get mine renewed.

having to deal with your thoughtlessness, and your backwards way of thinking. I’m not asking for the world, I’m asking to be part of it and to stop being forced into obscurity.

GARBAGE GOAT VANDAL I was really disappointed to visit the Garbage Goat on April 3 and see that some loser had written graffiti on its ears. Graffiti jerk: What a sad, meaningless life you must have. You suck!

JEERS TO THE INLANDER So you printed one reactionary socialist entry after another that blathered the same snowflake position about the Utah women’s sports team. The ONE submittal that actually asked an uncomfortable question of course hit the garbage can so hard it probably put a dent in it! The one that asked WHY you have all those high tech users walking along and NOT ONE pulled their phone out to video the people yelling insults and revving the engines of their redneck gas guzzling trucks. You really do live up to your reputation of a Socialist Muckraking Political Hack Sheet! Your mostly “bobblehead” leftist readers seem to march to the same tune.

DUMB MONEY To the city of Spokane Valley, to cut out one lane of Sprague for a bus that carries two people at a time is the

PHONE TREES Does anyone else have an issue with public agency phone trees with no person to answer the phone? Over and over, I run into this. I listen for many minutes to all the options that have nothing to do with me. Then, I select the most likely option and leave a detailed message. Nine times out of 10, nobody calls back with the information I’m looking for. There is no accountability. This is our tax dollars. Surely, the public agencies can do better than this. They work for us. There’s plenty of people who can answer the phones. Commercial businesses have “live” people, why can’t public agencies?

IDAHO: Take a look at the bills passed by legislators. Anti-LGBTQ+ bills, gender expression bans, book bans etc. Idaho hates any non-white, “regular” folk. Idaho residents vote. Look who they vote for.

THE WORLD IS NOT YOUR PARKING LOT, BRO I step outside for a smoke to see a truck that looks just like one my abusive ex has, in my driveway. I panic. I grab a weapon. I’m flooded with fear. Oh! What’s this, not him? A neighbor’s guest who decided to go ahead and park here? I’m a little relieved, but not as much as I’d like to be. I’m still shaking, wielding a pistol, and reliving a real-life horror story for the

Think of the revenue the state could accrue and needs! Why isn’t this enforced???

RE: NORTH IDAHO CRITICISM I read with great amusement the criticisms of the racist actions of those truck people against the Utah basketball team. One would think that this is solely a North idaho issue. Spokane has just as many ignorant and racist scum as North Idaho. The ridiculous exclusionary criticism was incredibly self-serving and stupid. Look in the mirror fools. Spokane actually really, really sucks. At least North Idaho has natural beauty. n

NOTE: I Saw You/Cheers & Jeers is for adults 18 or older. The Inlander reserves the right to edit or reject any posting at any time at its sole discretion and assumes no responsibility for the content.

EVENTS | CALENDAR BENEFIT

CDAIDE CARE AFFAIR A benefit auction featuring live music, a no-host bar, appetizers by four featured local chefs and a buffet dinner by Sysco chefs. Proceeds benefit CDAIDE. April 11, 5-8:30 pm. $75. The Coeur d’Alene Resort, 115 S. Second. cdaide.org

DAWGHAUS & KATZ BUILD RAFFLE

This third annual raffle benefits Pet Savers, a nonprofit spay, neuter and vaccine clinic. Packages include Gonzaga men’s basketball tickets, restaurant and brewery gift certificates and more. Daily from 10 am-7 pm through April 13. $1 raffle tickets. River Park Square, 808 W. Main Ave. petsaversspokane.org

CERAMIC THROWDOWN AND CUP

FRENZY This annual event raises funds and awareness for Emerge’s pottery program and studio space. Activities include a ceramic art competition, a cup sale and a gallery show. All proceeds support the growth of Emerge’s ceramics studio. April 12, 5-9 pm. Free. Emerge, 119 N. Second St. emergecda.com

APRIL SHOWERS AUCTION This annual fundraiser benefiting the Lands Council features an auction with dozens of outdoor items, certificates and activity gift certificates from around the Inland Northwest. April 13, 5 pm. $75. Barrister Winery, 1213 W. Railroad Ave. landscouncil.org (509-465-3591)

MIX TAPES ON MARKET PUB CRAWL A pub crawl that benefits the Isaac Foundation. April 13, 4-9 pm. $20. Chan’s Red Dragon, 3011 E. Diamond Ave. theisaacfoundation.org (509-325-1515)

SOME ENCHANTED EVENING An auction, dinner and performance benefitting the construction of the Idaho Central Spokane Valley Performing Arts Center. April 17, 5:30-8:30 pm. $100. CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Pl. icsvpac.com

COMEDY

POETS UP Improv based on poetry. April 12-16, Fri at 7:30 pm. 7:30 pm through April 26. $9. Blue Door Theatre, 319 S. Cedar St. bluedoortheatre.org

JARON MYERS The standup comedian from Kansas City, Missouri, has built an online fanbase of over 1 million followers. April 13, 7-7:30 am. $30. Kroc Center, 1765 W. Golf Course Rd. merlinscomedyclub.com (208-667-1865)

SAFARI The Blue Door Theatre’s version of Whose Line. Every Saturday at 7:30 pm. $9. Blue Door Theatre, 319 S. Cedar St. bluedoortheatre.com (509-747-7045)

BIANCA DEL RIO The season six winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race performs standup featuring the lightning-fast wit and razor-sharp tongue she’s known for. April 14, 8-10 pm. Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague. bingcrosbytheater.com

SHAUN JOHNSON Shaun Johnson is known for his relatable style of comedy. April 20, 7-8 pm. $32-$45. Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague Ave. bingcrosbytheater.com (509-227-7638)

COMMUNITY

SPOKANE HOME & GARDEN SHOW Exhibitors of garden, landscaping, flooring,

windows, furniture and other lifestyle services showcase products and discounts. April 12-14; Fri from noon-8 pm, Sat from 10 am-7 pm, Sun from 10 am-5 pm. $8-$12. Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. spokanehomeshows.com (509-534-5380)

EXPO ‘74: 50 YEARS OF ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE IN THE INLAND

NORTHWEST

A retrospective look at environmental justice work done since the World’s Fair in Spokane and what work remains to be done. April 12, 8:30 am-4 pm. Free. Gonzaga University School of Law, 721 N. Cincinnati St. gonzaga.edu/ climate-institute

LIBERTARIAN PARTY OF WASHING -

TON ANNUAL CONVENTION

Learn about Washington’s Libertarian party at this three-day convention featuring panels, speakers and more. April 12-14; Fri from 6-10 pm, Sat from 8 am-8:30 pm, Sun from 8:30 am-2:30 pm. $47$187. Woman’s Club of Spokane, 1428 W. Ninth. lpwa.org/con2024

PEND OREILLE COUNTY WEED BOARD

CALIBRATION WORKSHOP With a focus on herbicide application, this workshop reviews tank mix procedures, importance of water testing, proper application, spray nozzles, spray pattern, cleaning equipment,and more, with a live demo of backpack sprayer calibration. April 12, 10-11 am. Free. Newport, n/a. pendoreilleco.org (509-447-2402)

SPOKANE SPEED & CUSTOM SHOW

The region’s largest indoor car show, April 1214. Spokane County Fair & Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. spokanespeedandcustomshow.com

FUNKY JUNK ANTIQUE & CRAFTS

FESTIVAL Peruse through antiques, vintage goods and more. The festival also features live music and food. April 13, 10 am-4 pm and April 14, 10 am-4 pm. $8. Bonner County Fairgrounds, 4203 N. Boyer Rd. fb.me/e/6EmlZBzCm

HOLISTIC FESTIVAL More than 50 booths providing organic and natural products and remedies, body care and pain relief. April 13, 10 am-5 pm. $6. CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery. holisticfestivals.com

PAINT ROCKS & MAKE BUTTONS TO SUPPORT SURVIVORS A rock painting and button-making event to spread awareness and create community connections. April 13, 1:30-4 pm. Free. Human Rights Education Institute, 414 W. Fort Grounds Dr. safepassageid.org

PANEL & PIZZA A roundtable discussion featuring discussion on faith and complimentary pizza. April 13, 5:30-6:30 pm. Free. The Hive, 2904 E. Sprague Ave. fb.me/e/21pYbSDBc (509-444-5300)

SPOKANE CIVIC THEATER’S 76TH SEASON CELEBRATION Celebrate the announcement of the Civic Theatre’s 76th season with live and silent auctions, food and more. April 13, 6 pm. $100. Spokane Civic Theatre, 1020 N. Howard St. spokanecivictheatre.com

TOOLS FOR RUNNING AN EFFECTIVE NONPROFIT A workshop for leaders of small organizations on the basics of how to deliver on your mission. April 13, 9 am-3 pm. $30-$60. Create Arts Center, 900 Fourth St., Newport. createarts.org

ONLINE LEARNING CIRCLE: HISTORY & CULTURE OF THE MARSHALL ISLANDS

During this learning circle, study the culture and history of our Marshallese neighbors using free online materials. Registrants receive an email with course instructions and links. April 2-30, Tuesdays from 7-8 pm. Free. scld.org

WHY DID THE TITANIC SINK? Explore how ships float and how they sink through hands-on activities with a focus on the famous sinking of the Titanic, 111 years ago in April 1912. Grades K-8. April 16, 4-5 pm. Free. Hillyard Library, 4110 N. Cook St. spokanelibrary.org

MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID This class teaches students how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance-use disorders and the skills to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem or experiencing a crisis. Registration required. April 18, 8 am-4 pm. $75. Providence Community Wellness, 1313 N. Atlantic Ste. 4900. providence.org/communitywellness

STEAM PLANT OPEN HOUSE

An event at the historic Spokane Steam Plant including bite-sized snacks and information sessions. April 18, 10 am-2 pm. Free. Steam Plant Restaurant & Brew Pub, 159 S. Lincoln St. fb.me/e/5cKugs0zA

THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE

This monthly event includes live music, gallery talks, lectures, artist workshops and demonstrations, periodic exhibition openings and special Campbell House programing. Third Thursday of each month from 5-8 pm $7.50-$10. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org

EVENTS | CALENDAR

WITH PRIDE: LGBTQ+ RIGHTS & ADVOCACY IN LEGAL EDUCATION SUMMIT

Learn more about LGBTQ+ rights, issues, and advocacy efforts to help better serve and represent LGBTQ+ clients in the legal world. April 19, 9 am-4:30 pm. $60. Gonzaga University School of Law, 721 N. Cincinnati St. gonzaga.edu

FILM

LOVE LIES BLEEDING Reclusive gym manager Lou falls hard for Jackie, an ambitious bodybuilder headed through town to Vegas in pursuit of her dream. April 11, 8-10 pm. $8. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org

LATE NIGHT WITH THE DEVIL A live television broadcast in 1977 goes horribly wrong, unleashing evil into the nation’s living rooms April 12, 3:30-5:30 pm, April 13, 10 pm-midnight and April 14, 7-9 pm. $8. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org (208-882-4127)

SPOKANE COMEDY FILM FESTIVAL Two nights of short-form comedy films from Spokane’s local comedians and filmmakers. 3D glasses included with each ticket. April 12, 7-9:30 pm and April 13, 7-9:30 pm. $10. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. spokanecomedyfilmfestival.com

CAPTURING GRACE A film about people with Parkinson’s Disease. The event also features info and local resources about Parkinson’s, an interactive dance demonstration, Q&A with filmmakers and free door prizes. April 16, 6-9 pm. Free. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. dacnw.org

MOSCOW FILM SOCIETY: NAUSICAÄ OF THE VALLEY OF THE WIND Warrior and

pacifist Princess Nausicaä desperately struggles to prevent two warring nations from destroying themselves and their dying planet. April 17, 7-9 pm. $8. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org

DUNE: PART TWO Paul Atreides unites with Chani and the Fremen while seeking revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. April 19, 2-5 pm, April 20, 3-6 pm and April 21, 4-7 & 7-10 pm. $8. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org (208-882-4127)

FOOD & DRINK

LONG SHADOWS WINE DINNER A sixcourse wine pairing dinner featuring wines from Long Shadows Vintners. April 11, 6-9 pm. $150. Beverly’s, 115 S. Second St. bit.ly/3v1nP3f (208-292-5678)

THAI COCKTAILS & SMALL PLATES

CULINARY CLASS Master Mixologist

Mike Rineer teaches the art of creating authentic Thai small plates paired with cocktails. April 12, 6-8 pm. $80. Beverly’s, 115 S. Second St. beverlyscda.com

GINSPIRATION COCKTAIL CLASS This gin-focused interactive class features a chronology of three gin-based drinks. April 12, 6-9 pm and April 13, 6-9 pm. $85. Commellini Estate, 14715 N. Dartford Dr. commelliniestate.com

LOCALS ONLY A weekend dedicated to showcasing local beer, food, vendors and more. April 12-13; Fri-Sat from 11:30 am-10 pm, Sun from 11:30 am-8 pm. Free. Lumberbeard Brewing, 25 E. Third Ave. lumberbeardbrewing.com

SHOP SMART, WASTE LESS A food waste-reduction class focused on transforming shopping habits into sustainable practices. Delve into the art of mindful grocery shopping and discover how small changes can make a big impact on reducing food waste. April 15, 11 am-noon. Free. Second Harvest, 1234 E. Front Ave. secondharvestkitchen.org (509-252-6255)

SALTED CARAMEL APPLE PIE CLASS

Participants learn how to make a pie crust, salted caramel apple pie filling and fresh crumb from scratch. April 18, 2-5 pm. $90. Bean & Pie, 504 E. Sherman Ave. beanandpie.com (208-930-4065)

TOTALLY RAD 80’S GONE BAD A murder mystery dinner based around a high school prom in the ’80s. April 19 and 20, 6-9:30 pm. $85. Commellini Estate, 14715 N. Dartford Dr. commelliniestate.com

CULINARY TOUR OF THE PALOUSE:

ARTISAN BREADS Learn to bake artisan bread at home with Jessica and Craig of Storybook Baking Co. Beginners and experienced home bakers welcome. April 20, 10 am-2 pm. $55. Dahmen Barn, 419 N. Park Way, Uniontown. artisanbarn.org

WEST END BEER FEST Enjoy specialty craft beers from Humble Abode, Brick West, Iron Goat, Whistle Punk and the Grain Shed. Tickets include a special beer glass, a beanie and $4 pours all day long. April 20, 12-11 pm. $25. Brick West Brewing Co., 1318 W. First Ave. bit.ly/ WEBF2024 (509-279-2982)

MUSIC

COEUR D’ALENE BLUES FESTIVAL The 13th annual festival features performers

in the realms of jazz, blues, soul and R&B. See website for full schedule. April 12, 4-10 pm, April 13, 12-10 pm and April 14, 10 am-noon. $25-$75. Coeur d’Alene Resort, 115 S. Second. cdabluesfestival.com

LIFE & LIBERTY LIFT EVERY VOICE Chorale Coeur d’Alene performs works by Patti Drennan, Z. Randall Stroope, Rollo Dilworth and more. April 12, 7 pm and April 13, 2 pm. $20-$25. Trinity Lutheran Church, 812 N. Fifth St. choralecda.com

PAMYUA The Inuit band blends tribal funk and soul. April 12, 7:30 pm. $15-$36. Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, 211 E. Desmet. gonzaga.edu/mwpac

SING THE WORLD AWAKE! Moira Smiley performs a set of her music along with leading a mass choir performance by GU Choirs and high school and collegiate singers from around the area. April 13, 7:30-9 pm. $10-$15. Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, 211 E. Desmet Ave. gonzaga.edu/mwpac

PROJECT JOY SPRING SHOWCASE Senior volunteer entertainers, musicians, vocalists and dancers bring the joy of music and the arts to residents of senior living facilities and community venues. April 13, 1-3 pm. Free. Southside Community Center, 3151 E. 27th Ave. projectjoy.org

SPOKANE SYMPHONY POPS 5: BUGS

BUNNY AT THE SYMPHONY This concert pairs 16 iconic Looney Tunes cartoons on the big screen while Carl Stalling’s scores are played live by the symphony. April 13, 7:30 pm. $47-$100. The Fox Theater, 1001 W. Sprague Ave. foxtheaterspokane.org

KEVIN HEKMATPANAH & YOON-WHA

ROH Gonzaga’s Hekmatpanah performs a cello recital joined by WSU piano as-

sistant professor, Yoon Wha Roh. April 14, 4-5:30 pm. By donation. Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, 211 E. Desmet Ave. gonzaga.edu/music

FAYTHE VOLLRATH Vollrath plays selections for harpsichord. April 14, 2:304 pm. Free. Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes, 1115 W. Riverside Ave. spokanecathedral.com (509-358-4290)

NEW HORIZONS ORCHESTRA New Horizons provides entry points to music making for adults, including those with no experience at all. March 11-May 5, every Monday from 6:30-8:30 pm. $10/ rehearsal. Salem Lutheran Church, 1428 W. Broadway Ave. facebook.com/new. horizons.orchestra.spokane

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

USMC WOMEN’S NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS This wrestling event features girls freestyle competition for the 8U14U divisions as well as the U15, U17, U20, and U23. April 12, April 13 and April 14. $25-$40. The Podium, 511 W. Dean Ave. thepodiumusa.com

MEDICAL LAKE GEO-WALK & WATER

SAMPLING Walk around Medical Lake with Chad Pritchard, EWU professor of geology. Walkers assist in gathering water samples for stormwater research and picking up trash along the way. April 13, 1-3:30 pm. Free. Waterfront Park, 1386 S. Lefevre St. scld.org

WILDLIFE SAFETY Learn how to improve your interactions with wildlife for both your and the animal’s safety with the owner of Cedar Grove Wildlife. April 13, 1-2 pm. Free. Shadle Library, 2111 W. Wellesley Ave. spokanelibrary.org

SPOKANE INDIANS VS. EVERETT AQUASOX Promotions include Go Yard Giveaway (April 16), First Responders Appreciation Night (April 18), Yoke’s Family Feast Night (April 20) and Neurodiversity Awareness Day Game (April 21). April 16-19, 6:35 pm, April 20, 5:09 pm and April 21, 1:05 pm. Avista Stadium, 602 N. Havana. milb.com/spokane

THEATER & DANCE

BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL Before she was hit-maker Carole King, she was Carole Klein. This musical tells the story of a spunky, young songwriter from Brooklyn with a unique voice. Thu-Sat at 7:30 pm, Sat-Sun at 1:30 pm through April 21. $30-$35. Regional Theatre of the Palouse, 122 N. Grand Ave., Pullman. rtoptheatre.org

IN PARALLEL This evening of contemporary dance celebrates the sharing of dance across the Pacific Northwest and features new works by Lexie Powell, Vincas Greene, and Monica Mota of Quiero Flamenco as well as brand new pieces from local artists based in the Inland Northwest. April 12-13, 7:30 pm and April 13, 2 pm. $30-$35. Vytal Movement Dance Space, 7 S. Howard St, Ste. 200. vytalmovement.org

BHANGRA & BOLLYWOOD DANCE FITNESS This class combines the excitement of Bollywood with the folk of Bhangra. Wear loose clothing and come for a fun and invigorating dance. No experience necessary. April 14, 2:30-3:30 pm. Free. Liberty Park Library, 402 S. Pittsburgh St. spokanelibrary.org

SPOKANE FOLKLORE SOCIETY

CONTRA DANCE Dances feature live music by local folk musicians and callers who teach easy to learn dances. Every first and third Wednesday through June 19. $7$10. Woman’s Club of Spokane, 1428 W. Ninth. spokanefolklore. org

VISUAL ARTS

DUSTIN BRINKMAN: EVERYWHERE THE SUN TOUCHES

Using Midwestern iconography, Brinkman’s work speaks of the connection between personal identity and collective spaces. Thu-Sat from 4-7 pm through April 27. Free. Terrain Gallery, 628 N. Monroe. terrainspokane.com

1924: SOVEREIGNTY, LEADERSHIP & THE INDIAN CITIZENSHIP

ACT This exhibition commemorates the 100-year anniversary of the Indian Citizenship Act and centers on photographs of early local tribal leadership as they and their people navigated the sometimes-conflicting nature of being both U.S. citizens and citizens of their own sovereign nations. TueSun from 10 am-5 pm through Feb. 2. $7-$12. The MAC, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org

CULTIVATION Works by James Bason, Charlie Knapp and Sheila Evans inspired by what resonates within through their connection to the natural world. Wed-Sun from 11 am-6 pm. through April 28. 0. The Art Spirit Gallery, 415 Sherman. theartspiritgallery.com

BY THE DOZEN A showcase of art created by seniors in the Whitworth’s Art & Design Department. April 9-May 18; MonFri from 10 am-4:30 pm, Sat from 10 am-2 pm. Free. Bryan Oliver Gallery, Whitworth, 300 W. Hawthorne Ave. whitworth.edu

SAMANTHA WALL: IN A NEW LIGHT This exhibition brings together drawings that reflect the artist’s experiences as a Black Korean immigrant. Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-3:30 pm through May 9. Free. SFCC Fine Arts Gallery, 3410 W. Whistalks Way, Bldg. 6. samanthawall.com (509-533-3746)

MENTOR A ceramics invitational featuring regional and local ceramic faculty mentors and their students. Wed-Fri from 11 am-5 pmthrough April 26. Free. Trackside Studio, 115 S. Adams St. tracksidestudio.net

ENIGMA An exhibition featuring graphic works by members of the Spokane Print & Publishing Center. Daily from 11 am-7 pm through April 27. Free. Liberty Building, 203 N. Washington St. spokaneprintfest.org

GAY WALDMAN: FLORALS

This show features decorative floral works by artist Gay Waldman. Mon-Sat from 10 am-6 pm through April 27. Free. William Grant Gallery & Framing, 1188 W. Summit Pkwy. williamgrantgf. com (509-484-3535)

STEPHEN LESTAT: SPRING

MOON Lestat’s works showcase

quantum equations, mathematical theories and the pursuit of knowledge and understanding in a series of beautifully illustrated creatures. Wed-Sat from 11 am-5 pmthrough April 27. Free. New Moon Art Gallery, 1326 E. Sprague Ave. newmoonartgallery.com

ON OTHER CORRESPONDENC-

ES

A collaborative exhibition in which each featured artist has chosen a writer with whom they have corresponded. Fri-Sat from 12-8 pm through April 27. Free. Saranac Art Projects, 25 W. Main. sapgallery.com

TAMI HENNESSY: UNRAVELING

MY MIND

This installation features a mix of media art pieces, a two-dimensional tree, paintings, video, poetry, and an interactive wheel all represent the trauma of living with Functional Neurological Disorder. Fri-Sat from noon-5 pm through April 28. Free. Shotgun Studios, 1625 W. Water Ave. shotgunstudiosspokane.com

PALOUSE PATCHERS QUILT

SHOW This annual event features handmade quilts and a quilt raffle. Proceeds help fund educational events held by the Palouse Patchers. April 13, 10 am-5 pm and April 14, 10 am-4 pm. $3-$5. Latah County Fairgrounds, 1021 Harold St. palousepatchers.org

DENAE: RETROSPECTIVE OF

AN ARTIST

An exhibit featuring works by late local artist Denae Veselit who passed away in January 2024. The display features 30 works for sale and viewing. April 18-21; Thu-Sat from 5-10 pm, Sun from 3-9 pm. Free. Ruins, 225 W. Riverside Ave. (509-995-3651)

WORDS

GET LIT! FESTIVAL Eastern Washington University’s 26th annual literary festival featuring readings, writing workshops, craft classes, open mics, discussions and more. April 11-14; times and locations vary. $0-$50. inside.ewu.edu/getlit

JANELLE CORDERO: TALK LOUDER BOOK RELEASE PARTY

A new collection of poetry comprised of vignettes from small town life. A Q&A with the author follows, plus an open mic for women and nonbinary folx. April 11, 7-10 pm. Free. Garden Party, 107 S. Madison St. instagram. com/papeachuevents

BROKEN MIC Spokane Poetry Slam’s longest-running, weekly open mic reading series. Wednesdays at 6:30 pm; signups at 6 pm. Free. Neato Burrito, 827 W. First Ave. bit.ly/2ZAbugD

POETRY CELEBRATION Celebrate National Poetry Month with local poet Stephen Pitters. April 17, 6-7 pm. Free. South Hill Library, 3324 S. Perry St. spokanelibrary.org

PIVOT STORYTELLING: WHAT ON EARTH? Six locals tell true stories that might make you say “What on Earth?” Suggested $10 donation. April 18, 7-9 pm. Free. Washington Cracker Co. Building, 304 W. Pacific. pivotspokane. com n

BLACK MARKET

Evergreen Success Story

As other states struggle with illicit cannabis, Washington remains a beacon of success

BY WILL MAUPIN

The problem of illicit cannabis in states that have legalized it is back in the news again, and once again it’s not because of Washington.

Last week, NPR ran a story titled, “Black market cannabis thrives in California despite legalization.” The story focuses on California, but also looks at states like Maine and New York, which are having similar issues combating the illicit market despite the presence of a legal market.

Washington is mentioned in the story as well, but as a contrast. The Evergreen State has not had the same issues, because the legal market has almost entirely out-competed the illicit market.

What is it that has allowed Washington to find success where these other states have not?

Possession of cannabis in Washington became legal on Dec. 6, 2012, but the state did not open its legal market until over a year later, on July 8, 2014. That slow rollout allowed state regulators to carefully chart the correct path for the legal market.

In the early days back in 2014 and 2015, low product volume in the legal market led to high prices.

“We knew then that if the total price dropped to below $12 per gram that the regulated retail market would be able to compete with the illicit market,” former Liquor and Cannabis Board Director Rick Garza said in

a statement regarding a 2021 report from the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada, on Washington’s cannabis market.

“As more stores opened, the price steadily fell month-over-month until it stabilized in the last five years,” Garza continued.

The University of Waterloo report found that the average price of a gram in Washington was $6.51 in 2021. That was despite Washington’s cannabis tax rate of 37% being far and away the highest in the nation.

By comparison, troubled California’s tax rate is just 15%, but reporting from KCRW Public Radio in Santa Monica, California, found that depending on the jurisdiction, other taxes can quickly pile on top. That makes illicit storefronts, which operate largely with impunity and appear legal in every way except for the lack of a state license, a much cheaper option.

Not only is Washington’s legal marketplace cheap, it is tightly regulated. When illicit shops do pop up, the state acts swiftly and harshly, as they did in 2022 with two such locations on the West Side. The state recommended felony charges in both cases.

It seems simple. Make the legal stuff cheap and the illegal stuff unwise. Washington figured that out over a decade ago, but other states are still struggling to do the same. n

Washington’s legal retailers and policies successfully undercut illicit dealers. CHIANA MCINELLY PHOTO

BE AWARE: Marijuana is legal for adults 21 and older under Washington State law (e.g., RCW 69.50, RCW 69.51A, HB0001 Initiative 502 and Senate Bill 5052). State law does not preempt federal law; possessing, using, distributing and selling marijuana remains illegal under federal law. In Washington state, consuming marijuana in public, driving while under the influence of marijuana and transporting marijuana across state lines are all illegal. Marijuana has intoxicating effects; there may be health risks associated with its consumption, and it may be habit-forming. It can also impair concentration, coordination and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. Keep out of reach of children. For more information, consult the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board at www.liq.wa.gov.

NOTE TO READERS

Be aware of the differences in the law between Idaho and Washington. It is illegal to possess, sell or transport cannabis in the State of Idaho. Possessing up to an ounce is a misdemeanor and can get you a year in jail and up to a $1,000 fine; more than three ounces is a felony that can carry a fiveyear sentence and fine of up to $10,000. Transporting marijuana across state lines, like from Washington into Idaho, is a felony under federal law.

and over, it’s more important than ever to talk with your kids.

WARNING: This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Cannabis can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of the reach of children.

WINNING IS JUST THE BEGINNING!

30 Winners of up to $1,000 Cash & Extra Play Cash!

THURSDAY, APRIL 11TH | 7 PM

THURSDAY, APRIL 25TH | 7 PM

Get swept away with Cash and Extra Play Cash in the $30,000 Worley Whirlwind this April! On Thursdays, April 11th and April 25th, you could be one of 15 lucky contestants drawn to step into the whirlwind machine for a chance to grab up to $500 in Cash and Extra Play Cash— plus, nab the tornado prize game slip and double all of your winnings!

Start earning drawing entries from April 1st by playing your favorite video gaming machines with your Coeur Rewards card and whip up one entry for every 250 points earned.

See the Coeur Rewards booth, CDA Casino app or cdacasino.com for promotional rules.

STARTING FRIDAY, APRIL 12TH

OPEN 24/7

Fuel Your Fun!

Get gas at a discount. Simply swipe your Coeur Rewards card at the Coeur d’Alene Casino’s Conoco to get 5 to 25 cents off per gallon. The higher your Coeur Rewards tier, the bigger your reward!

See the Coeur Rewards booth, CDA Casino app or cdacasino.com for more details.