Inlander 06-06-2024

Pride Pride Pride The Issue

EDITOR’S NOTE

As our team put together this week’s PRIDE ISSUE, we found ourselves in an often disheartening place — wedged between much-needed progress, but also surrounded by exhausting setbacks. Only weeks ago, Spokane’s Pride crosswalk was defaced by vandals who set it on fire. Two years ago, Coeur d’Alene’s Pride in the Park was nearly derailed by a white supremacist hate group. And last week, a local trangender track athlete was booed as she crossed the finish line victorious during Washington state’s 2A high school championship meet.

While it can feel like the hits never stop coming for our LGBTQ+ friends, family and neighbors, history has also shown that its members and allies will rise in solidarity and defiance, time and time again. Hate has no home here, or anywhere else.

This week volunteers and community leaders reconvened downtown to refresh Spokane’s Pride flag mural, an effort in defiance of hate made possible after local residents and organizations raised more than $15,000. And over in Idaho, Coeur d’Alene’s Pride event last weekend went off without disruption, a celebration of acceptance, love and compassion — as it should be.

— CHEY SCOTT, Editor

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WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT FOR PRIDE MONTH THIS YEAR?

JANNELL MCCALL

I’m excited for people of the LGBTQ+ community to be able to express themselves and have a voice… from the looks of the crosswalk stuff, people aren’t always open to that, which is sad.

HEATHER KRESEK

It seems like people are being more accepting.

Do you have a favorite memory from Spokane Pride?

It’s hard to pick one. I definitely have a good time. It’s nice to be able to finally express how I’m feeling without feeling judged.

MEL TOTH

Hanging out with my wife, holding hands, looking at rainbows.

Have you been to past Pride events in Spokane?

A little bit. I like walking around the park with my wife afterwards, we enjoy seeing people having fun and being out and proud about it.

VINNIE HALBROOK

I’m excited to see everybody being in love, being open, being accepting.

Are you planning on going to any of the events?

Probably just the parade… I’ve gone a couple times.

STACIA KARTZ

It’s nice to see people being especially open and proud.

Do you have a favorite memory from Pride?

The one that I went to was during a tough period with my family, so it was nice to go and have fun with like-minded people.

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A symbol of freedom, birds became an art obsession among Japanese Americans forced into relocation camps during World War II

9066, which led to the expulsion and incarceration of roughly 122,000 Japanese Americans. Many were given just 48 hours to pack, forcing them to sell their houses, farms, businesses and possessions at rock-bottom prices — ultimately costing them more than an estimated $12 billion in lost property and income, in today’s dollars.

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s a child, I’d creep down the basement stairs and watch him: hunched over a table, a single lamp lighting his work. First he’d carve a walnut-sized body out of wood. Then he’d take a tiny brush and paint the figure in bright reds and greens and blues, wrap embroidery thread around its spindly wire legs, and top the whole thing with a shiny lacquer. On the back, he’d add a clasp and sign his name in katakana.

The end result: a bird pin so delicate it could fit into the palm of my 8-year-old hand. My grandfather, whom I called jichan, made hundreds of these bird pins over the course of his retirement. I always thought they were unique to him. But in recent years, I’ve learned that he was part of something much larger.

It all began in February 1942, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order

arrying suitcases full of clothes and little else, most “evacuees” were sent to 10 War Relocation Authority camps in remote parts of Wyoming, California, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho and Arkansas. Others were brought to lesserknown camps throughout the country, including in Alaska, Montana, New Mexico and Hawaii.

My jichan was sent from his home in California to Poston, in the Arizona desert, the secondlargest camp by population. At its peak, Poston held nearly 18,000 men, women and children of Japanese descent, including more than a dozen members of my family.

Since the camp barracks and grounds were nearly empty when they arrived, the incarcerated people spent their early days making their surroundings habitable: building furniture, carving clothes hangers, planting gardens, opening schools. They also took jobs, initially for no pay. Each camp eventually had a hospital, newspaper, mess

Hand-carved wooden birds made by Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II. BEAR GUERRA PHOTO/HIGH COUNTRY NEWS

dry goods store, and police and fire department, so many found ways to continue their careers as doctors, journalists, teachers or farmers. By the end of 1943, 85% of the vegetables eaten in the camps came from within them.

People sought out more leisurely distractions, too. “Stuck in that one-square-mile area, it was like, how do you entertain yourself, how do you keep your sanity?” said Delphine Hirasuna, the author of The Art of Gaman, a book about the arts and crafts of Japanese in carceration. In addition to forming sports leagues, they taught each other pursuits like flower arranging, doll making, sewing and quilt ing. “If somebody had a particular skill,” Hirasuna said, “the other people who were stuck in camp would say, ‘Could you teach me?’”

In Poston, Roy Takahashi, who’d been an art student prior to the war, offered a bird-carving class in September 1944. Within two weeks, the camp newspaper, the Poston Chronicle, declared that “bird carving seems to be one of the most popular pastimes now.” Archi val records suggest that Takahashi offered several more sessions to meet the demand.

One reason the bird pins were so popular, Hirasuna said, is they didn’t require a lot of materials. Many of the people at camp had knives they’d fashioned out of scrap metal, and paint could be ordered fairly easily from a Sears catalog. For the birds’ bodies, they salvaged scraps of wood from delivery crates; for the legs and feet, they used wire from window screens.

They created all manner of birds: My jichan’s repertoire in cluded cranes, wood ducks, road runners, pheasants, eagles — even a toucan. They reportedly used an Audubon field guide for inspira tion, as well as copies of National Geographic, which was “deluged” with orders for back issues, according to Allen H. Eaton’s 1952 book Beauty Behind Barbed Wire. And, though bird carving spread to many other camps, perhaps through letters and packages sent between them, Eaton wrote that Poston “outnumbered all others in the quantity and quality of carved and painted American birds.”

Carol Takahashi (no relation to Roy Takahashi) said her grandparents took one of the bird-carving classes offered at Poston. For them, Takahashi said, the pins served as a form of currency: “I know my grandparents traded some of the early bird pins with other ladies for diapers and stuff like that.”

Then, after the war, Takahashi’s grandparents were unable to find work. “Nobody wanted to hire Japanese,” she said. So they turned to the skill they had learned in camp, and made and sold bird pins for the next 40 years. Over time, they became the craft’s most famous makers; their pins received write-ups in the media and permanent spots in several museums. “They made the best of what they could with the situation,” Takahashi said, noting that the bird pins funded her grandparents’ retirement and their four children’s college educations.

Kristen Hayashi, the director of collections management and access at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, said the bird pins are “very iconic to the camp experience,” and one of the most common donations the museum receives.

“Maybe we’re imbuing a lot of meaning onto it, but it seems very poignant that a lot of these incarcerees were recreating birds,” Hayashi said. “Just the symbolism of birds having the freedom to fly and kind of go wherever they want to — something they weren’t able to do incarcerated behind barbed wire.”

My jichan eventually moved back to California, where he worked at a newspaper printing press and as a grocery clerk, among other jobs. In retirement, he returned to making bird pins, which my aunts and I sold at markets on both coasts.

I know my jichan’s pins are still out there, as they occasionally pop up on Etsy or eBay, complete with his signature. I’m sure that many more, from many other former incarcerees, are hidden in basements or attics or jewelry boxes. When people hold these pins in their hands, I hope they see what I do: not a story of suffering, but a story of resilience — of finding beauty, even in the rawest places.

Susan Shain reports from Montana for High Country News through The New York Times’ Headway Initiative. High Country News is an independent magazine dedicated to coverage of the Western U.S. Subscribe and sign up for the newsletter at hcn.org. Also follow HCN on Facebook and X.

‘THE ULTIMATE ANTI-GENTRIFICATION TOOL’

West Central neighbors are deciding which pedestrian-friendly changes should be made with money designated for their neighborhood

BY SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL

Nearly two decades ago, West Central was on the verge of some big changes, with the soonto-be-developed Kendall Yards area north of the Spokane River bringing both opportunity and the risk of gentrification to the low-income neighborhood’s doorstep.

So, in a proactive move in 2007, the Spokane City Council created the West Quadrant Tax Increment Finance District to collect money to put toward revitalization. The move was partly made at the urging of Jim Frank, founder of Greenstone Corporation, the Kendall Yards developer. Frank grew up in West Central and says he has been very intentional about ensuring that

Kendall Yards does not turn its back on its neighbors, whether through design or impacts.

“When we began developing Kendall Yards, we really had a focus on making sure the rest of the West Central neighborhood benefited from what was happening,” Frank says.

Tax increment financing districts, more commonly called TIFs, aren’t exactly well known outside the development realm, but planners say they’re an important tool used to invest new tax revenue in a uniquely hyperlocal manner.

Once the boundaries of a TIF are established, the district receives a small percentage of the increased

property tax revenue created by development within that area. The idea is to use the money for public improvements, which in turn, hopefully sparks even more investment by private parties.

After years of delayed growth, the West Quadrant TIF is now the city’s most active, and the least restricted in terms of the types of projects it could help get off the ground, says Kevin Freibott, a senior planner with the city of Spokane. Public improvements can include things like bike lanes, sidewalks, streetscaping and even affordable housing.

In December, the city signed a contract with the

Consultants are helping imagine improvements for West Central. PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF SPOKANE ...continued on

“‘THE ULTIMATE ANTI-GENTRIFICATION TOOL’,” CONTINUED...

engineering firm Kittelson and Associates to help do outreach in West Central to figure out which projects identified in previous neighborhood plans still have support.

“There’s been so many planning studies, and there’s a list of projects that are already included as part of the TIF,” says Wende Wilber, senior principal planner with Kittelson. “So we started with … ‘Are these still relevant? Are these still of interest to you?’ and then, ‘What’s missing?’”

By the end of this year, the hope is that the consultants, in partnership with the neighborhood, will have a list of eight to 10 shovel-ready projects that can apply for funding from the TIF.

The work is renewing enthusiasm among neighbors who’ve lobbied for more investment in West Central for years.

“It’s hard to get people excited, like, ‘Do you wanna hear about a tax increment finance district?’ People’s eyes glaze over,” says Jessie Norris, a homeowner in the neighborhood and secretary for the nonprofit REACH West Central. “There’s going to be a lot of money there over time. It really is going to be a big deal.”

Fellow West Central resident Liz Morlin, who previously served as neighborhood council president, agrees that it’s hard to get people fired up about the financial tool. But she notes that it can empower their neighbors in a way rarely offered to those who can’t show up to government meetings.

“This is the ultimate anti-gentrification tool,” Marlin says. “It’s one of the few opportunities for a low-income neighborhood that hasn’t had a lot of investment to receive intentional, targeted investment.”

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY

Norris says to truly understand why this year’s work with Kittelson is such a big deal, you need to know a little history.

When the West Quadrant TIF was created in 2007, the revenue was divided into two areas — one for Kendall Yards and one for nearby neighborhoods — and originally set to expire in 2032. For its part, Kendall Yards agreed to make a series of public upgrades, including building out a portion of the Centennial Trail, in

exchange for reimbursement from some of the new property tax revenue generated within the development’s mix of commercial and residential buildings.

The other part of the fund was designated for public improvements in the neighborhoods inside the TIF’s boundaries, including West Central, a long strip along Monroe Street north into Emerson/Garfield, and a small portion of the Riverside neighborhood downtown.

The district was also created in partnership with Spokane County, which receives 30% of the neighborhood improvement revenue to put toward upgrades to its campus, which is in West Central, city planner Freibott explains.

While all TIFs don’t make much money in their first few years, the Great Recession in 2008 did somewhat slow the growth of the neighborhood improvement revenue, Freibott says.

“My husband and I have owned a home in West Central for a very long time — not only did my property taxes not increase during that time, they went down,” Norris says. “So there was really no money going into that fund.”

Then, in 2019, after the neighborhoods’ fund had finally started to build up, the City Council agreed to spend more than half a million dollars from the TIF to update the north suspension bridge in Riverfront Park, and another half a million for utility upgrades in the area that’s now home to the Podium.

While the council also approved spending $77,000 to renovate West Central’s Dutch Jakes Park at that time, neighbors were unhappy that so much TIF money had gone to projects in areas that were already receiving more than $64 million in publicly funded improvements.

One of the reasons money went to those projects is that they were proposed by city departments that had the expertise to design them and take them to the Neighborhood Project Advisory Committee for approval, Norris says. That committee advises the City Council about which projects to spend the TIF money on (and is currently accepting applications for three open positions).

West Central residents didn’t have the same expertise, she says.

The city’s share of the TIF is expected to generate about $657,000 this year that could be used for neighborhood improvements.

In 2020, the neighborhood convinced the city to extend the TIF’s expiration date to 2047, to make up for some of the slowdown during the recession. While Spokane County has yet to agree to that extension, once finalized it stands to benefit West Central (and the county) even more, as after 2032 the share of new revenue from Kendall Yards will pour into the neighborhood fund. And half of the money received after 2032 is envisioned to go toward permanent affordable housing.

Now that Kittelson has been hired (with TIF funding), West Central residents will be able to take the lead on where that money goes.

“It’s not just the city deciding what gets to happen here,” Norris says.

POSSIBILITIES

The West Quadrant TIF already has a list of projects underway that will continue drawing from the neighborhood improvements account, which last week had about $2.3 million in it, Freibott says.

Among the approved projects, Habitat for Humanity is purchasing and renovating homes in West Central and creating permanent affordable housing, while the NATIVE Project will receive some help with public utility infrastructure for the new youth treatment center it’s building.

Wilber says the Kittelson team is still gathering other ideas and meeting with multiple committees made up of West Central residents this month.

Rather than host open houses, the team has been meeting residents at established community events, such as the neighborhood’s spring cleanup day, which offered a captive line of about 70 drivers to talk to while people waited in their vehicles to dispose of trash, Wilber says.

Next, the team plans to speak with residents at the West Central Community Center’s Neighbor Day, from 4 pm to 7 pm on Friday, June 7.

“The number one thing that we have consistently heard so far that is not an official project as of yet is infilling of missing sidewalks,” Wilber says.

Earlier this spring, the team did a neighborhood walk and imagined what some traffic calming measures could look like, drawing with sidewalk chalk in the street to show the space those “bulb-out” or “bump-out” curb extensions take up.

The team’s final concepts to improve the right-of-way will not only be eligible for TIF funding, but could help cover the local share that’s needed to qualify for federal safe street grants, Wilber says.

“We’re also going to do an economic analysis of what the benefit to the neighborhood and bringing in additional business [is],” Wilber says, “with these improvements of slowing traffic, making it safer to bike and walk, and getting people to transit more easily.”

The best part of the project has been seeing how excited everyone is to get closer to seeing some actual concrete and paint, Wilber says.

Marlin, the former neighborhood council president, says the teamwork between the consultant and the neighborhood, rather than a top-down design coming from the city, is revolutionary.

“City staff deserve credit for it,” Marlin says. “It’s been a long-fought battle to move into this collaborative space.”

The goal is to see the funds leveraged for significant change — Marlin notes that West Central leaders have had a running joke for years that they don’t want to see hanging baskets installed on Broadway Avenue but nothing fixed for families who are suffering.

“We want to have this kind of investment driven by the neighborhood, rather than inflicted on the neighborhood and displacing people,” Marlin says. “Our vision is to maintain and continue to grow this vibrant and sustainable community where everyone can thrive.” n

samanthaw@inlander.com

Caps O to New Beginnings!

Congratulations to the Spokane Community College and Spokane Falls Community College class of 2024.

Meet four of our 2024 Graduates

Meagan is 1 of 5,828 students receiving her professional/ technical degree

Meagan Eirls

A.A.S. Mechanical Engineering Technology

Spokane Community College

Taylor is 1 of 539 graduates focusing her future in fine arts

Taylor Kuykendall

A.A.S. Photography

Spokane Falls Community College

Jessica is graduating from 1 of 38 healthcare programs

Jessica Murphy

B.A.S. Respiratory Care

Spokane Community College

Jefferson is 1 in over 4,030 first-generation students

Tongasoa Jefferson Julianot Rakotomalala, A.A. Business Administration

Spokane Falls Community College

Whether you’re graduating in Spokane or at one of our rural campuses, we can’t wait to see you take the next step toward your future!

Correcting Course

West Bonner could close two schools. Plus, Spokane gets electric car sharing; and the city settles a wrongful death claim.

BY INLANDER STAFF

After repeated levy failures left the West Bonner School District $4.68 million in the hole, the rural North Idaho district is trying to correct its financial course. In a special meeting last week, the district’s Board of Trustees voted to close two elementary schools — Idaho Hill and Priest Lake leaving just one elementary, one junior high and one high school in the district. The decision isn’t final yet. The board planned to meet on June 5 to discuss what it would take to adopt the change, and a public hearing on next school year’s budget is scheduled for June 12. Meanwhile, the district is still searching for a permanent superintendent to replace Branden Durst, who resigned last year amid controversy over his lack of qualifications. Last week the trustees announced they’d narrowed the search to two finalists; but the day after they voted to close the two schools, candidate Robbie Swint Jr. dropped out, leaving Kim Spacek, currently the superintendent of Mountain View School District in Grangeville, Idaho, as the sole candidate for the position. (COLTON RASANEN)

SHARING IS CAR-ING

The Zero Emission Vehicle Cooperative, or ZEV Co-op, a car sharing nonprofit based in Seattle, is teaming up with Gonzaga University, Avista and Urbanova to introduce a new electric vehicle sharing system for Spokane drivers. Thanks in part to a grant from the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Zero Emission Access Program, licensed drivers between ages 21 and 79 will be able to use an electric vehicle from the program for an hourly fee. To participate you need to take an orientation and have a relatively clean driving record. The cars will be located behind Gonzaga’s Sustainability Office on Sharp Avenue. According to ZEV’s website, prices vary from $8 to $16 an hour, plus startup fees, depending on whether you’re a member of the co-op. The goal is to provide community members access to carbon-free transportation when other modes of public transit aren’t convenient. Member-owned ZEV Co-op operates seven electric vehicle sharing projects in the Puget Sound region, and hopes to make at least 250 electric vehicles available by 2026 to Washington residents, especially in low-income, rural or underserved communities. (ELIZA BILLINGHAM)

SHOOTING SETTLEMENT

In January 2022, 23-year-old Peterson Kamo was shot six times and killed by Spokane police officers. Police had been called because of a domestic dispute, and they said Kamo was holding a knife to a toddler’s throat. Kamo’s family filed a wrongful death tort claim, alleging that officers had acted improperly and not taken enough time to de-escalate the situation before opening fire. On Monday, Spokane City Council members voted 4-3 to approve a $250,000 settlement with the family. Council members Jonathan Bingle, Lili Navarette and Michael Cathcart voted against the settlement. The city should show police that “when they do the right thing, we’ve got their back,” Bingle said, adding that the officers should be praised for saving the toddler’s life. The council members who voted for the settlement stressed that it wasn’t necessarily an admission of wrongdoing — just a way for the city to avoid a costly legal battle. (NATE SANFORD) n

LYLE LOVETT

An electric vehicle charging station at Huckleberry’s Natural Market. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

The Folly of Freeing Finned Friends

Spokane’s Franklin Elementary students learn how dumping goldfish creates an invasive issue

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

“Cool!”

“That’s a big fat one!”

“You got the motherload!”

“Let me see!”

More than 20 fifth graders are circling the small pond at Lincoln Park in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood in Spokane. They stop every time they see colorful twine dangling from a tree branch into the water.

Wesley Pitter, their science teacher, calls on a star science student to pull on the twine and reel in a large mesh fish trap from under the surface.

The kids huddle around their classmate, who tries to hold the trap high enough for everyone to see. There are six traps total. Each trap, without fail, has goldfish in it.

“How did those fish get there?” parent volunteer Lisa Bowman asks the students.

The answer, the students know, is humans. Bowman and Pitter are working with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to spread the word about the invasive nature of goldfish, and they’re starting with elementary students.

Throughout the last week in May, Bowman and Pitter have taken third, fourth and fifth graders from Franklin Elementary School to the nearby park to catch invasive goldfish and explore how humans can impact their environment, both for better and for worse.

Goldfish are nonnative fish that only make it into ponds and waterways by people releasing them there. Pet owners probably dump them with the best of intentions, Bowman says, not wanting to kill their fish but also not thinking about the damage the animals will cause outside an aquarium.

Franklin Elementary School student Evie Vega shows off a goldfish trap to fellow students at Spokane’s Lincoln Park. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

It only takes one person releasing a few goldfish to create a nearly unsolvable problem, says Randall Osborne, a district fish biologist with the state Department of Fish and Wildlife. Female goldfish can lay up to 10,000 eggs in their relatively short life, which means populations get out of control very quickly. Plus, goldfish are voracious eaters and devour the bugs and plants that other juvenile fish would want to eat. With large appetites and eggs that hatch in just days once fertilized, they can crowd out other species very quickly.

The only way to completely eradicate goldfish from a body of water is to poison it with rotenone, Osborne says, which will kill all the fish (not just goldfish) and most other life in the water.

Nearby West Medical Lake has a major invasive goldfish problem, even after the fish were eradicated with rotenone in 2018. Goldfish were released into the lake again, and now the Department of Fish and Wildlife is proposing another rehabilitation this fall. It could cost up to $150,000.

The pond in Lincoln Park isn’t at risk for rotenone treatment since it’s small and there aren’t many other species living in it. But the presence of goldfish in wild ponds shouldn’t be normalized, Osborne says.

Even though these trapping field trips won’t eradicate the goldfish in Lincoln Park completely, they will hopefully open the students’ eyes to a problem that most adults don’t know about, Pitter says. They’ll also hopefully prevent any of the students from releasing their own pet goldfish into a nearby pond in the future.

“I think what attracted us to this project is that it’s complex. There’s no easy solution,” Pitter says. “We wanted [the students] to really be able to see their place in the problem and the solution.”

Many people in the South Hill neighborhood have no idea that goldfish are eating up their local pond. But Gabriel Gossel knew, even before his class field trip.

“I go up here a lot in the summer because I live close, and I’ve seen Fish and Wildlife take them out before,” says the fifth grader, whose curly brown hair is tucked under a baseball cap.

He lingers in the back while other students dump the fish from each trap onto the ground in spots marked by red, yellow, and purple hula hoops. They need to count how many fish they caught and report the numbers to Fish and Wildlife. One trap has one, another has 11, while a few heftier traps have more than 30 fish each. The traps have only been set for two hours, but they’ve already caught close to 100 fish.

Students scoop them up by their tails, with the occasional scream or giggle because of an especially squirmy or slimy fish.

“This is the part I don’t like,” Gossel says. “I would either find a way to just end it quickly for them or I would not do it at all. Because I know they’re invasive, but it’s not their fault they’re in there.”

Once the fish are counted, they’re put into ziplock bags and then a cooler, where they’ll freeze and die. It’s the most humane way to end the fish’s life, Osborne says. The fish will then be turned into compost to be spread in vegetable and flower beds by the school’s gardening club, Bowman says.

Before the students walk back to Franklin, they stop at another spot in Lincoln Park, a makeshift memorial that’s recently been built with rocks and planted with flowers that seem to be nonnative. It’s a beautiful sentiment, Bowman says, but it has the potential to disrupt the ecosystem just like goldfish do.

“This right here is a human intervention into nature,” she says to a mostly attentive group. “This is how it can happen with the best of intentions — like you didn’t want to kill that little goldfish, so you decided to release it in the pond. Or you wanted to make a beautiful piece of art, so you planted some flowers. But then it can have unintended consequences.

“One of you might become a future botanist or a conservationist — someone who works to partner with our land to make sure that, as humans, we’re the caretakers of it,” Bowman concludes. “I hope that you can remember this, to understand that as you leave Franklin, you are no longer just learning, you also have responsibilities to actually care for the land around you.” n elizab@inlander.com

LIVE LOUNGE ENTERTAINMENT

Kyle Swaffard

CHINOOK LOUNGE

JUNE 7 TH & 8 TH 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Kyle Swaffard is a singer-songwriter from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho who has been entertaining audiences in the Pacific Northwest for more than 30 years!

Pastiche

NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE

JUNE 7 TH & 8 TH 8:30 PM - 12:30 AM

Get ready to get your groove on with this pop, rock, funky cover band, playing hits from the '70s to the present.

Mike McCafferty

CHINOOK LOUNGE

JUNE 14 TH & 15 TH 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Enjoy an evening of live music with the talented musician and songwriter, Mike McCafferty.

Royale

NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE

JUNE 14 TH & 15 TH

8:30 PM - 12:30 AM

Four guys from four different places found each other in the Pacific Northwest and formed the band Royale. Since the foundation of Royale, the band has gained momentum and a quickly growing fan-base.

Happy

Pride! Pride! Happy Pride!

Between the anti-queer legislation that has exploded across the country in the past few years and more recent displays of hate locally, like the group of vandals who set a downtown Spokane rainbow crosswalk on fire, it’s more important than ever for the Inland Northwest’s LGBTQ+ community to understand where they’ve come from. Which is why we decided to focus some of this year’s Pride Issue coverage on these often overlooked moments of history.

In this section, learn about Spokane Pride’s new efforts to document the region’s queer history, as well as the queer history being made as rural communities across the Inland Northwest host their first-ever Pride events. Also find a story about the lasting legacy of one of the region’s most iconic drag queens, and how a group of queer nuns hope to leave their own mark.

We know we can’t cover it all, but we hope this peek into the region’s LGBTQ+ community propels you into a world of multifaceted stories that are just waiting for a captive audience.

— COLTON RASANEN PRIDE ISSUE EDITOR

Ancestry An Act of Ancestry

An ongoing project aims to showcase untold stories of the Inland Northwest’s LGBTQ+ community

BY COLTON RASANEN

Everyone, everywhere in the world has their own story. Some are long-lived sagas filled with chapter after chapter of jaw-dropping material, while others are more akin to a short novel. Regardless of length or content, most of the stories of those in the LGBTQ+ community just haven’t been told — leading to a new generation of queer people who don’t know their own history.

Instead of allowing that history to be lost, Spokane Pride has dedicated efforts to collecting and documenting these local stories through a new project called Spokane Pride & Remembrance: A History Project. Operating like a museum exhibit, the project showcases contributions of the region’s LGBTQ+ community at Riverfront Park’s Pavilion through Saturday, June 8. Attendees can view panels of the national AIDS Memorial Quilts displayed by SAN (formerly Spokane AIDS Network) in one area, and can be dazzled by the jewels and gowns worn by royalty of the Imperial Sovereign Court of Spokane, an LGBTQ+ nonprofit that provides support and raises funds for the community. In total, there will be 10 or so exhibitions spread throughout the Pavilion building’s first floor. Centrally highlighted among these different facets of the queer community’s existence is a poster board timeline compiled by archivist Bethany Laird, a nonbinary Spokanite.

Over the past few months, Laird spent 20-plus hours of her free time each week documenting all this history. Using archival material and first-person interviews, Laird was able to pinpoint pivotal historical figures and moments in the region’s queer community.

One story Laird is most excited to share is about Spokane jazz musician Billy Tipton, who came to town with the Billy Tipton Trio in 1958. Not until after his death in 1989 was it discovered that Tipton was a transgender man.

“We don’t really have a lot of transmasc representation in our history, so that was really cool to discover,” Laird says.

Laird’s work on the project is only the beginning, and she hopes to see it continually updated and showcased at future Pride events.

“This exhibit is the launch of something greater and bigger, and it can’t be done alone,” she says. “It has to be everyone in the [LGBTQ+] community involved, and they all have their pieces to add.”

Crystal Marché began performing as a drag queen in Eastern Washington over two decades ago, so the region’s queer history is a personal affair for her.

The Tri-Cities-born queen began her own story at

the queer nightclub Out and About in Pasco, and moved to Spokane in 2003 to perform at Dempsey’s Brass Rail, where she was the self-proclaimed duchess of the Dempsey’s Divas.

“Growing up, Spokane always seemed like the big city,” she says. “But when I moved up here, I learned it wasn’t as big of a haven as I thought.”

Even though the city wasn’t as queer-friendly as it seemed from afar, Marché soon learned firsthand that Spokane was where many LGBTQ+ residents of the Inland Northwest gathered, even if they weren’t often acknowledged publicly.

As time went on and Marché became a local icon in her own right, she began to wonder why the stories of Spokane’s queer community weren’t being told. However, that thought laid dormant until 2020 when she was stuck at home during the pandemic.

She spent most of her spare time devouring historical content, including the 2020 documentary P.S. Burn This Letter Please, which tells the story of New York City’s drag scene prior to the Stonewall riots through a collection of long-forgotten letters and photos. By tracing the material back to its source, the documentary illustrates the rich lives NYC queens and queer individuals were able to experience.

“We only hear about the destruction and how we

Spokane Pride History and Remembrance Project archivist Bethany Laird, head curator Crystal Marché and Spokane Pride board member Shelby Dirks. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Spokane Pride History & Remembrance Project: A History Exhibit

June 4-6 from 11 am-4 pm and June 7-8 from 11 am-8 pm, free Pavilion at Riverfront, spokanepride.org

were under a microscope, but this documentary paints this amazing picture of life in New York,” Marché says. “Watching it, I was just like ‘Man, who’s gonna tell my story.’ The more I meditated on that I thought, ‘Damn it, why not me.’”

Thus the seed for this year’s history project was planted in the fertile soil of Marché’s brain to propagate until it began to actually flower at the end of 2023 with the help of Spokane Pride.

“You know, we began working on this project in December, but I’ve been talking about this to anyone who would listen for the past two years,” she laughs heartily.

While the remembrance project’s main goal is to preserve and celebrate the region’s queer history, Marché says one of her personal goals as head curator is to ensure everyone’s story is told, regardless of their identity.

“A lot of our history is told for, and by, white queer people,” Marché explains. “That was really hard for me to swallow, because I’m coming from this standpoint of wanting to tell everyone’s story. It’s given me a level of humility that I, as a white person, don’t really get to be in touch with because this project encompasses everybody.”

Marché gives all of her subjects the freedom to share their individual narrative in the way they want it to be told, effectively creating a project that doesn’t just “give these communities a voice,” she says, but instead amplifies existing voices that were so often ignored.

“We’ve got to allow people to tell their stories from their voice or point of view,” she says. “We just can’t inject any of ourselves into [their stories].”

She believes allowing queer folks to tell their own stories makes the project a more accurate and authentic portrayal of their ancestry. And with that authentic portrayal comes a better understanding of where the LGBTQ+ community has come from.

Those wishing to contribute to the project can email info@ spokanepride.org. Submissions can include paraphernalia from past Pride events, photos of drag performance, and anything else representative of the community’s regional history.

Additionally, Marché thinks that formatting the project in this way will allow the region’s queer youth to more easily connect with their queer elders.

“I think the generation coming up has a very palpable disconnect from their history because they don’t know where they come from,” she says. “Once younger people start to get a sense of where we’ve come from, they can have a proud feeling for where they’re going.” n

Pride Pride Pride

Habits New Habits

The Spokane Falls Sisters are the city’s newest queer nuns, bringing a chapter of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to Eastern Washington BY

ELIZA BILLINGHAM

Imagine a religious habit, complete with a veil, tunic and rosary. Then throw in glitter, drag makeup and false eyelashes, and you’ve got Spokane’s newest queer nuns: the Spokane Falls Sisters, founders of the Abbey of the Children of the Sun, a mission status house of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.

“We’re not mocking any religion,” says Beau Lucas, known as Guard Duke Kendoit of the Spokane Falls Sisters. “You see the [Catholic] nuns, they go out and they do work in the community, right? We’re doing the same thing.”

Not a member of any religious order, the Spokane Falls Sisters are four members of the LGBTQ+ community who have heard and heeded a calling to serve the marginalized in Spokane, advocate for safe sex practices and celebrate living life to the fullest. They are on their way to becoming a “fully professed” house of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a nonprofit founded in San Francisco in 1979 by a few queer men with some retired Catholic nuns’ habits.

The mission of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence is to “promulgate universal joy and expiate stigmatic guilt,” according to its online “sistory.” Their early work in San Francisco included bingo benefits for gay Cuban immigrants and condom-themed parade floats promoting AIDS awareness.

The Spokane Falls Sisters founded their abbey last year on Dec. 1, recognized as World AIDS Day. Their work so far has included helping throw Odyssey Youth Movement’s queer prom, feeding the homeless and spreading safe sex awareness alongside SAN (formerly the Spokane AIDS Network).

The Sisters’ reference to religion is more than skin deep. Besides attire, the entire organization is similar to that of a religious order. Just as a Catholic nun goes through stages of discernment from postulant to novitiate to final vows, people seeking to join the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence must be aspirants first, then complete “mission” status before becoming a “fully professed” house.

Riffing off traditional religious imagery is as intentional as it is provocative. On the one hand, the Sisters see themselves doing the same works of charity and mercy that other nuns do. But their borderline irreverence seeks to free themselves and others from past religious trauma, and shock onlookers into reimagining what love looks like.

“We are poking the bear, because a lot of queer youth and a lot of queer adults have been stigmatized by religion,” says Augie Martinez, known as Sister Anita Selma Tacos. “So what we do is we help get rid of that. Because if we can look how we look but we’re out here spreading love, joy and happiness — that’s what our mission is. So it’s kind of a poke, but not in a disrespectful way. We create waves, but we do it correctly.”

Indulgence is quite the opposite of asceticism, the kind of selfdisciplined life that nuns and monks typically choose. But for the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, uninhibited celebration is at the heart of everything they do.

“If a 94-year-old woman was asked, ‘What would you do over in life?’ she would say something like, ‘Do it now,’” Sister Anita says.

“If you’re going to indulge in life, indulge in life and perpetually have fun with it. But be safe about it. So the mission of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence is to live life to the fullest, have fun and be smart about it.”

The group’s commitment to smart choices doesn’t start and end with safe sex. The Spokane Falls Sisters are committed to walking alongside those dealing with addiction or houselessness, not just because of their commitment to kindness, but because of their own personal experiences.

“One thing that’s unique about us is that we’re all in recovery from drugs and alcohol,” says Kimberly Campbell, known as Sister Reign BoDacious. “We take care of ourselves, and then we meet people where they’re at. We say, ‘This is who we are.’ Because it’s not something that we need to hide. We’re not ashamed of it.”

Openness and vulnerability are the keys to courage, joy and acceptance, the Sisters preach. Everyone needs the support and belief of the community around them, and the Sisters want to be available to anyone who needs them. One of their next service ideas is a street sweeping initiative that helps clean sidewalks to make them more hospitable to anyone passing through.

“If our community sees that, maybe instead of passing judgment, it’ll turn an eye to say, ‘How can I be of service?’” Sister Anita says. “Just being a nun — a Catholic nun or a Buddhist nun or a queer nun — it’s in the work that we do. A real nun goes out into the community and dark, desolate areas. So will we.” n

Founding members of the Spokane Falls chapter of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence (from left): Sister Anita Selma Tacos, Guard Duke Kendoit and Sister Reign BoDacious. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

What Makes a Queen

Queen Pride Pride Pride

Original Dempsey’s diva Miss Mylar Black hosts a reunion show for Spokane Pride

BY AZARIA PODPLESKY

Miss Mylar Black will be the first to say she hasn’t always enjoyed the limelight.

Born in 1974, Mylar (aka Joe Sullivan) grew up on the South Hill, the introverted only child of a single parent. It wasn’t until attending Ferris High School that she got a taste for theater while performing with the orchestra during a musical.

She auditioned for the school’s next musical and fell in love with performing. Still, she avoided the full glow of the spotlight.

“I’m definitely more of a background person,” she says. “I’ve often been called the perfect chorus boy because I give emotion and I react, but I don’t draw focus.”

After graduation, Mylar performed in community theater. It was during a 1997 show with Spokane Civic Theatre that she and cast members supported a fellow actor performing in a drag show at Pumps 2, located near where Fast Eddie’s Bar and Grill stands today. Mylar and the crew ended up performing a number from the show, a performance watched by Monty Danner, who was co-owner of Dempsey’s Brass Rail and wanted to host a drag show there with live singing.

hold, took Mylar under her wing, teaching her about makeup and telling the other queens to let Mylar be as she performed high-concept numbers.

When not performing, Mylar worked with SAN (formerly Spokane AIDS Network) on a program called Friend to Friend, which encouraged open conversations about safe sex. She worked with SAN around the time azidothymidine and highly active antiretroviral therapies were being used to treat HIV/AIDS, but still recalls months when she attended multiple funerals for friends.

“We were losing a lot of people still back then,” she says. “But I was very fortunate to have gotten to know a lot of the families and houses here in Spokane. A lot of them are gone now.”

Along with her schedule at Dempsey’s and Pumps 2, Mylar also performed at local colleges and in small towns. In her first and only year competing, she was crowned Miss Gay Washington 2002.

“[Dempsey’s general manager] Michael Fietsam asked me, ‘Hey, do you want to do this for a while, try it out?’ I agreed, and it snowballed from there,” she says.

Mylar performed twice a week, often renting costumes from the Civic. She wasn’t a fashionista and pieced together outfits as best she could.

“‘Miss Mylar’ is because I’m cheap, shiny and durable,” she says. “If they can’t be held together with hot glue and safety pins and a stitch here and there, I ain’t f---ing interested.”

Mylar Ribbòn became Mylar Black after performer Christina Black, mother of the Black drag queen house-

In 2004, Mylar moved to Portland to work at the Oregon Zoo. Just five weeks later, however, she was laid off due to an investigation into misappropriation of funds by the zoo. Still, she stayed in the city for 16 years, working for the Cascade AIDS Project and hosting Sunday shows at the Silverado until 2009. She took home the Miss Gay Oregon title in 2005.

After a career spent helping others, Mylar’s priorities changed when she was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2019. After localized radiation she thought she was in the clear, but as the pandemic hit, Mylar began to feel sick, her 6-foot-4 frame dropping from 230 to 129 pounds. Not wanting to take up space in the hospital, Mylar kept to herself until the day she physically couldn’t get out of bed.

An MRI revealed five tumors, including one on her spine that required a drain, leading to a six-month hospital stay. When surgeons removed the drain, something was nicked and she was left paralyzed.

Mylar considered suing the hospital but was told it would be difficult to prove malpractice and that she would be buried in paperwork for years, a process that would likely be as expensive as any cash payout she might receive. After being released from the hospital, she moved back to Eastern Washington to start physical therapy. She marked her return to the Spokane scene with a performance at a Dempsey’s reunion show in March.

As could be expected, she did things her way.

“I was like, this is really the first time anybody’s ever seen me perform in my wheelchair. I’m going to do the Bette Midler thing and put on a mermaid tail, because that’s hilarious,” she says. “What song can you do with a mermaid tail in a wheelchair? The effervescent stylings of Enya’s ‘Orinoco Flow.’ That’s not something I would normally do, but for that performance, that’s f---ing funny.”

This weekend, Mylar is announcing at Spokane’s Pride parade and co-hosting another Dempsey’s reunion on Saturday at 6:30 pm in Riverfront Park. She’s grateful for a warm welcome upon returning to Spokane and is excited the local drag scene has become more open to members of the LGBTQ+ community. She doesn’t get to many shows these days, but likes what she’s seeing from younger performers and is proud of them for continuing to volunteer for worthy causes.

Mylar says community drag is very different from what’s shown on TV, and she’s excited for audiences at the reunion show — and the young performers themselves — to learn from the previous generations. Drag is more than costumes and catchphrases, she says — it’s guttural, visceral and should make people feel things.

“That is basically all I hope for the younger generations is that they don’t get too lost in dressing up,” she says. “That’s not what makes a queen.” n

Miss Mylar Black is returning to the stage for Spokane Pride’s Dempsey’s reunion show on June 8. COURTESY PHOTOS

Miss Mylar Black

The Community Colleges of Spokane are dedicated to ensuring all students have access to a high-quality education in a safe and welcoming environment.

We strive for a place that promotes equity and inclusion for all while fostering appreciation of diverse cultures and global perspectives. The PRIDE Center at Spokane Community College and LGBTQ+ Student Center at Spokane Falls Community College are safe spaces for all to be welcomed and empowered to be one's true and authentic self.

We Help BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Businesses Start-up and Succeed

• Business coaching and workshops

• Technical assistance applying for business loans

• Partnership, collaboration, and advocacy

We advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.

509-503-1024 | 327 E. Pacific, Spokane, WA 99202 ahana@ahana-meba.org | www.ahana-meba.org

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Pride Pride Pride Small Town, Big Pride

Big Pride

Regional, rural Pride celebrations show that LGBTQ+ life is thriving outside of big cities

BY MADISON PEARSON

As June arrives, rainbow flags flutter in the wind alongside the stars and stripes and crowds spill onto city streets to celebrate Pride month.

Bobby Wire-Roberson has seen his fair share of epic and joyful Pride celebrations, having helped organize such community events in Denver and Colorado Springs before moving to Coeur d’Alene 11 years ago. In that time, more and more small towns in America have also begun hosting Pride celebrations to increase visibility of and celebrate their LGBTQ+ residents.

Wire-Roberson had a hand in organizing Coeur d’Alene’s first-ever Pride celebration in 2016 and the nearby Silver Valley’s in 2022. Now, he’s involved in Bonners Ferry, Idaho’s first pride event, happening June 21 through 23 at the Pearl Theater.

In 2022 during Coeur d’Alene’s Pride in the Park celebration, Wire-Roberson was in the middle of a performance as his drag queen persona, Victoria Sumerz St. James, when 31 men associated with the white nationalist hate group Patriot Front attempted to riot in the park.

“My whole thought on Idaho is that there needs to be Pride everywhere,” he says. “LGBTQIA+ people are living everywhere. They need to know that they are loved.”

Just as the Silver Valley Pride event in Wallace, Idaho, and Lincoln County Pride in Libby, Montana, provide the Inland Northwest’s outlying communities with colorful celebrations, Bonners Ferry residents seek to make Pride an annual celebration as well.

As Bonners Ferry Pride’s outreach director, entertainment coordinator and security coordinator, Wire-Roberson has been working the

past four months to ensure the celebration goes smoothly.

“It started as a conversation piece, and it moved really quickly into a full-force committee,” he says.

A Friday kickoff celebration at 6 pm features keynote speaker Cristal Blue Sapphire, a Boise-area drag queen, followed by a dance party. Saturday’s schedule is packed with music, entertainment, drag performances and poetry readings that are all family-friendly from 10 am to 6 pm. Once the clock strikes 8 pm, an 18+ after party begins. After a long night of celebration, Pridegoers can chill out with an LGBTQ+ movie marathon on Sunday.

The entirety of the three-day event is happening inside the Pearl Theater. Having the Pride celebration in a “safe and enclosed space” was important, Wire-Roberson says. A private security firm will also be present, and the celebration is ticketed with all proceeds supporting Bonners Ferry’s next Pride. Wire-Roberson hopes these measures deter protesters and prevent any potentially dangerous situations.

Despite recent legislation targeting LGBTQ+ Idahoans (like House Bill 71, which prevents transgender minors from accessing gender-affirming care) and a negative response from some Bonners Ferry community members, organizers seek to make the town’s inaugural Pride celebration positive, inclusive and safe for all.

“This is going to be a great event,” WireRoberson says. “We’ve had a lot of negativity, but you can expect that for somewhere as deep as Bonners Ferry. But the outcry of love has been more than the disruption of hate.” n

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PRIDE 2024 EVENTS

2024 PRIDE EVENTS

LET’S TALK ABOUT PRIDE

Thu, June 6 from 5:30-7:30 pm The Boxcar Room, aclu-wa.org

SPOKANE QUEER ART WALK

Fri, June 7, times vary Various locations, spokanearts.org

FORAY FOR THE ARTS:

CELEBRATING PRIDE

Fri, June 7 from 6-9 pm Grant Park, Spokane instagram.com/foray4thearts

FRIDAY NIGHT FEVER

Fri, June 7 from 7-10 pm Davenport Grand Hotel spokanepride.org

LATINX PRIDE

Fri, June 7 from 7 pm-2 am nYne Bar & Bistro, nynebar.com

SPOKANE PRIDE

PARADE & FESTIVAL

Sat, June 8 from noon-7 pm Riverfront Park, spokanepride.org

MINI DEMPSEY’S BRASS RAIL REUNION SHOW

Sat, June 8 from 6:30-8:30 pm Riverfront Park, spokanepride.org

FAMILY PRIDE CELEBRATION

Sun, June 9 from 1-3 pm Central Library, spokanelibrary.org

CDA4PRIDE TIE-DYE PARTY

Sat, June 15 from 10 am-1 pm Human Rights Education Institute nipridealliance.com

PRIDE STORYTIME Sat, June 15 at 11 am Auntie’s Bookstore auntiesbooks.com

GLOBE PRIDE CRUISE Sat, June 15 from 1:30-4:30 pm Lake Coeur d’Alene facebook.com/globespokane

BONNERS FERRY PRIDE

June 21-23

The Pearl Theater thehistoricpearltheater.org

QUEER PROM

Sat, June 22 at 8 pm

The Chameleon chameleonspokane.com

PRIDE BAR CRAWL

Sat, June 22 from 4 pm-midnight The Globe Nightclub facebook.com/globespokane

SHIBARI N FLOW PRIDE

Thu, June 27 at 7 pm

The Chameleon chameleonspokane.com

CDA4PRIDE PRIDE ON THE RUNWAY Fri, June 28, 6-8 pm Mik’s, nipridealliance.com

PRIDE IN PERRY

Sat, June 29 from noon-5 pm South Perry District odysseyyouth.org/pride-in-perry

SANDPOINT PRIDE July 13-14 Granary District, sandpointpride.com

PALOUSE PRIDE Aug. 22-25 Moscow, inlandoasis.org

Scenes from a past Spokane Pride Parade and Festival. The big event returns on June 8, but many other communities are hosting events through the month. YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

How Spokane Pride strives to make its acceptance even more accessible

BY SETH SOMMERFELD

Spokane Pride’s best ability? Accessibility.

This year mobility improvement has been a focus for organizers, since Riverfront Park’s grassy areas can be difficult for folks who use canes, walkers or wheelchairs to navigate (including Spokane Pride Vice President Julia Payne). Additionally, viewing the Pavilion stage can be a frustration for those who can’t climb up onto the grassy knolls overlooking it.

To counteract this, Spokane Pride has purchased a bunch of heavy duty mat platforms (typically used in construction) to give ADA seating directly in front of the main stage an unobstructed view. There will be a similar ADA seating at the top of the park’s Clock Tower Meadow. Booth placement this year was also rethought to provide asphalt access to as many as possible, with more mats used to create paths to booths set up on grass.

“It’s also in recognition of the fact that we are thankfully in a place where we have an aging part of our community that previously perhaps we didn’t have,” Payne says. “We want to make sure that they still feel welcome at the event that is celebrating all of the hard work that they did.”

Pride is also launching an “accessibili-buddy” program. Volunteers are on hand to help those with special needs (sensory, communication or mobility issues; blind or deaf) navigate the festivities by communicating with vendors, carrying items to hardto-reach places or even standing in food truck lines.

Prior accessibility measures at Pride will remain, including the Shriners-run shuttles from parking areas to the outskirts of the park, ASL translators and two sensory zones on site.

“If anybody has accessibility needs that we aren’t addressing, please use our website and use the survey link and let us know,” Payne says. “Because we can’t promise that we will meet every need, but we can promise that we’ll try.” n

Spokane Pride welcomes all. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Fighting Still Fighting

North Idaho Pride Alliance director Sarah Lynch reflects on progress made and lost for the region’s LGBTQ+ community

BY COLTON RASANEN

Following a 20-year career as an Air Force pilot, Sarah Lynch retired, moved to North Idaho for “the pretty girl” (her wife) and began spending her free time volunteering with the North Idaho Pride Alliance (NIPA).

After volunteering for Coeur d’Alene’s Pride in the Park, in 2022 she took on a board position leading NIPA’s safety committee, a perfect fit because of her military service and a doctoral degree in public safety. This experience immediately proved necessary when a group of masked white nationalists with the hate group Patriot Front tried to disrupt the city’s Pride festivities.

After that, NIPA leaders reflected on how they’d like to operate in the community, ultimately deciding to hire a part-time executive director. Lynch stepped away from her board position to apply. Today, she’s been working as NIPA’s executive director

for just over a year.

The Inlander sat down with Lynch in the busy week before Coeur d’Alene’s Pride in the Park (June 1) to talk about what it means to operate an LGBTQ+ organization in North Idaho, how NIPA is getting involved with the legislative session and where heightened anti-queer rhetoric in the region is coming from. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

INLANDER: How might you characterize North Idaho’s LGBTQ+ community and NIPA’s role within that?

LYNCH: The LGBT community here shows a lot of strength and resilience in the face of fear and bullying. It sometimes feels like an uphill battle, but I’ve really been impressed with the LGBT community here.

North Idaho Pride Alliance Executive Director Sarah Lynch COURTESY PHOTO

Following 2022 [when 31 white nationalists were arrested for plotting a riot during Pride in the Park], we had a reflection period of ‘How do we want to be in this community?’ We showed a lot of resilience and bounced back to say, ‘OK, we’re going to learn from this because the community needs us.’ But then at the same time, you know, there is the fear, and there is the bullying, and hateful rhetoric. That does cause a little bit of a chilling effect, and I think that it’s tough for LGBT folks here to connect.

Is there a specific reason why we seem to be going backwards?

My wife shared a quote recently that said ‘Visibility is more often a precursor to increased backlash than it is to progress.’ There were all these really wonderful steps for the LGBTQ+ community during the Obama administration, so then queer folks became more visible. And I think in some ways that led to backlash, unfortunately.

We’ve seen a lot of legislation affecting the LGBTQ+ community come forward in Idaho in recent years. What work has NIPA been doing to advocate for the community in the Legislature?

We’ve been learning a lot from the ACLU of Idaho. That’s been part of the educational events we’ve had over the last couple of years to understand how the legislative system works. We’re trying to understand that, and what it really comes down to is being quick enough to respond and finding real people that these [bills] are affecting, so we can uplift their voices and give them a chance to speak their piece. A lot of times

this legislation is introduced toward the LGBT community without any consideration as to how it could impact everybody else.

It almost seems like some of this anti-queer rhetoric might be coming from a place of ignorance, rather than hate, especially in the more rural communities of North Idaho.

Yep, 100%. You obviously have either end of that spectrum, but there’s this middle section that just doesn’t know or they’re apathetic or just privileged and thinking it doesn’t have anything to do with them, so there’s no reason to learn.

I hear time and time again from older folks who come to me at our various events, and they say, ‘I have a LGBT kid, and they moved away when they grew up, and they won’t come home, even for the holidays to visit, because they don’t feel safe here.’ That just breaks my heart, and I think that’s a valid reason to try and educate yourself. There’s an expectation from allies that NIPA should do all these programs to educate everybody about this. And I think the reality is we just don’t have the bandwidth and the capacity to teach the entire Panhandle of North Idaho.

Do you see a turning point in the near future?

Honestly, I think we’ve seen some amazing movements in the last week or so, like with the trial that occurred last week with the drag performer [Eric Posey] who was defamed by the blogger [Summer Bushnell]. I’m still shocked a little bit, but in North Idaho the jury was unanimous that that is defamation and that she should pay him for the damages and be punished. That’s a big statement that a unanimous verdict from a jury of 12 [North Idahoans] made that decision. n

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POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

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BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:

� Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

� Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

� K idney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.

� Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

� Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

� The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

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Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

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� This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

� G o to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.

� If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

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Sciences,

VISUAL ARTS

Viewfinders

Local and regional artists reflect on a landscape theme in summer exhibition at Gonzaga’s Jundt Art Museum

BY CARRIE SCOZZARO

Writer Oscar Wilde said that “every portrait that is painted with feeling is a portrait of the artist, not of the sitter.”

Could the same be said of landscape art — that it’s a reflection not just of the natural world but also of the cosmic relationship between artist and nature?

Featuring 81 artworks exploring the theme of landscape, the Second Inland Northwest Juried Landscape Art Exhibition at Gonzaga University’s Jundt Art Museum offers an opportunity to ponder the question.

Andrew Parker, one of 66 Northwest artists whose work was accepted to what may become a triennial exhibition, has a relationship with nature shaped in part by his vocation.

“I feel like there is a vein of my work that is very much place-based or inspired by locations,” says Parker, whose training as an architect is central to his artmaking.

His mixed media artwork “Boundary Lines” pulses with color, mostly yellow and goldenrod, but also spring green, with agricultural elements reflected in the work:

receding field rows shimmering in the sun, a fence line in perspective and a deconstructed barn.

“It’s reminiscent of a location or of nature or of a landscape without specifically being a landscape,” Parker says of the abstract piece inspired, in part, by the Palouse.

Cozette Phillips’ freestanding sculpture “Reverie” is one of the few three-dimensional works in the Jundt exhibit, which runs through Aug. 24. Phillips describes it as “a monument and memorial to the many trees that once dotted the Pacific Northwest landscape.”

To create it, she took molds of bark from trees cut down after wildfires, due to blight or cleared for construction. She then assembled the cast bark onto a concave sheet of metal, essentially flipping the curve of the tree inward, and mounted the whole thing onto a mirror-polished metal base. In addition, for the past five years, Phillips has added a thin layer of bronze powder to the surface of the bark “to symbolically reference the value of nature and record the passage of time.”

“The inverted tree and mirror-polished stainless-steel

base offer the viewer opportunities for reflection while confronting what has been lost due to environmental changes in the landscape,” says Phillips, a Spokane Falls Community College art instructor and the college’s gallery director.

The reflective element in Michael Holloman’s painting “Coyote’s Sweat Lodge” is more overt, yet like Phillips, the artist offers a glimpse of himself in the work as well as in describing his process.

“I don’t have a drawn out idea immediately,” says Holloman, an enrolled member of both the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and an associate art professor and coordinator of Native Arts Outreach and Education for Washington State University. Instead, he says composition and color present themselves as he focuses on the landscape and natural world.

On the left side of the painting, what could be the moon against a sapphire blue sky is reflected in what looks more like the sun in a turquoise pool below. Similarly, the mountain on the upper right side of the composition can be read as partially shadowed — nighttime — while its reflection on the lower right side is brightly lit, suggesting daylight. Uniting the two halves is a smaller mound of earth, with a small, dark doorway.

“It exists as a physical place, but also mythical,” Holloman says.

Both Holloman and Phillips participated in the Jundt’s first landscape exhibition, “Close In.”

Six years ago, in 2018, the museum hosted the large landscape exhibition based on the broad appeal of landscape art, both to the public and to area artists, explains museum director and curator Paul Manoguerra.

“We had about 4,000 people come see it that summer, which is a big group of people for summer given that

From left, clockwise: Art by Beth Rimmelspacher, Andrew Parker, Michael Holloman, Cozette Phillips and Jen Erickson. COURTESY JUNDT ART MUSEUM

Republic, Washington-based artist Gregg Caudell’s “Decisions.”

campus is so quiet,” Manoguerra says. “So that was lovely and then the artists seemed to enjoy it, including a number of them who said, ‘I hope you’re going to do this again.’”

Indeed, museum staff discussed making the exhibition a triennial, planning a recurrence in 2021. Instead, the Jundt was mostly closed during the COVID pandemic.

Fast forward to 2024. When the subject of a landscape exhibition came up, there was a new bit of timing to contend with.

“We were going to do the landscape show anyways, but [with] our themes and what we hoped the artists would present as their themes and their connections to the landscape and the way that they think about the landscape, it made sense to latch on to the 50th anniversary of Expo ’74,” Manoguerra says.

Staff looked through nearly 300 submissions, resulting in 81 works that span the spectrum of art media, styles, interpretations of the landscape theme, and artist backgrounds.

Located in one of the museum’s forward-most windows, called the Arcade Gallery, Katie Creyts’ etched and fused glass piece “Waves of Palouse” is the perfect welcome to visitors and a tie-in to Expo ’74, which used similar hues of blue and green in its logo.

Museum staff incorporated Expo-like colors on several movable walls and pedestals inside the exhibition, providing a dramatic backdrop for such works as Gregg Caudell’s stunning painting, “Decisions,” at the main gallery’s entrance.

Many of the works elevate familiar places, establishing a connection between place, artist and viewer. Kim Gardell’s “Serene—Lake Curlew.” Paul Kennar’s “Dishman Hills.” Gordon Wilson’s “Riverfront Park AM.” Rui Xue’s “Vista House Mound.”

Every season and time of day is represented, offering a full color palette, from the sublime to the most subtle. Kathy Kostelec’s gelatin silver print, “Snow Sky.” University of Idaho assistant professor and Moscow-based painter Aaron Cordell Johnson’s “Grey Days of January.” Robert Eacret’s ethereal watercolor, “Delta Dawn.”

Robert Lloyd’s digital “Tale of Two Cities” is subdued in color as well as content, offering a cautionary reminder about inequity and injustice, particularly for the unhoused.

Whether politically and socially laden or straightforward and naturalistic, vaguely familiar or downright specific, and in all manner of shapes, sizes, styles, and media, the artworks in the museum’s landscape exhibition offer something for everyone.

Nodding, Manoguerra agrees. “Some of them are just oldfashioned pretty.” n

Second Inland Northwest Juried Landscape Art Exhibition

• Through Aug. 24; open Mon-Sat from 10 am-4 pm • Free • Jundt Art Museum • 200 E. Desmet Ave. • gonzaga.edu/jundt • 509-313-6843

‘Live Like Larry’

Remembering Larry O’Neal, a joyful connector in Spokane’s arts scene

BY MELISSA HUGGINS

Spokane’s arts and culture community recently lost a beloved arts supporter, volunteer and artist: Larry O’Neal. Always quick with a joke, O’Neal was easy to spot in a crowd with his signature colorful glasses and warm smile.

“Everyone knows Larry,” says Jackie Caro, operations director at Terrain. “Have you met anyone in Spokane who doesn’t?” she adds, laughing. “I once had a friend tell me how she saw the cutest couple at Thomas Hammer doing crosswords and how in love they were. Of course it was Larry and Mike.”

O’Neal and Mike Loft began dating in 1989, training together for Bloomsday and going out to dinner. They built a 35-year life together, weaving a rich tapestry of friendships in their neighborhood, church, workplaces and broader community. O’Neal and Loft were a constant in the local arts and culture scene, always attending events like First Friday, Spokane Pride, Pivot and the Pie & Whiskey reading at Get Lit!

Fifteen years ago, they met another joyful duo supporting the arts: Mike and Christi Malsam.

“We kept going to all these events and seeing this couple,” Malsam says. “Christi introduced herself, and they’d been thinking the same thing about us. The joke was, ‘Well, we saw you here, so it must be pretty cool.’”

In addition to attending gallery openings and poetry readings, O’Neal believed in a life of service. He volunteered for Spark Central and Terrain, and cultivated a long-running book club, combining his love of literature with a passion for connecting people and promoting local authors.

“People liked the books, but really they were showing up for him,” Loft says with a smile.

Three years ago, O’Neal was diagnosed with cancer. Throughout his illness, he continued to show up for others with generosity, kindness and humor. At each stage of treatment, he’d ask the doctors, “Can I keep working?,” eager to continue at Terrain’s retail space From Here, where he championed local writers and makers.

“Larry was very candid and honest in our staff meetings about his cancer,” Caro says, “But he would always say, ‘I want to be around people; people are giving me life.’”

Loft says O’Neal told him it was the happiest place he’d ever worked.

“My last interaction with him was one of his final days at From Here, when he phoned me to come meet a young writer he was working with,” says Spokane author Sharma Shields. “Larry was a supporter of indie bookstores, small literary events,

big literary events and writers at all stages of their careers. An amazing literary community member.” O’Neal drew, painted, acted and wrote at different times throughout his life, finding fulfillment in creativity. Loft says he’d been working on a book of his own, which Loft hopes to share someday. Friends believe art helped O’Neal keep going for as long as he did.

“It was so important for him to have art in his life,” Caro says. “It filled his soul.”

“Larry thought like an artist, and his art form was connecting with other people,” Malsam says. “How he made people feel — that was Larry’s gift.”

In 2023, O’Neal signed up for the Boulevard Race benefiting Community Cancer Fund.

Longtime friend Cindi Miraglia decided to join. She’d known the couple since the beginning of their courtship and worked with both. The three formed a larger group of coworkers-turned-friends, weaving their lives together over time.

On the morning of the race, she recalls, O’Neal wasn’t feeling well and moved slowly. Miraglia finished, then doubled back to join him and Loft, repeating a portion of the 4 miles so they could cross the finish line together.

“Larry was so glad he did it,” she says.

After O’Neal died on March 4, Miraglia and daughter Annie Lytle wanted to help with funeral expenses. Lytle suggested selling a T-shirt (now sold out) with the motto “Live Like Larry.” Designer Jon Deviny created artwork and Terrain arranged a limited print run, donating proceeds toward the memorial. Friends and family wore their shirts to the service on May 18.

“I hope someday I can be that giving of my energy and my time,” Caro says. “Think about all the little things you can do for other people. Larry just did them.”

Miraglia had hoped to do the Boulevard Race again with Larry this fall, but she’s determined to continue in his memory. This time she’s encouraging her colleagues at John L. Scott to join in.

“Who doesn’t know someone going through cancer or who has gone through it?” she asks. “We’re going to do it for Larry.” n

Larry O’Neal; the “Live Like Larry” design. PHOTO COURTESY MIKE LOFT

Showing Her Mettle

In new memoir Mettlework, Portland writer Jessica E. Johnson reflects on a childhood shaped by the region’s mining industry

BY E.J. IANNELLI

Shortly after the birth of her first child, Jessica E. Johnson received an unexpected e-mail from her mother. Attached to it, she writes in her recently published memoir, were “a couple of scanned Polaroids and two scanned letters.”

The family photos her mother sent were partly intended to elicit comparisons to the new mother as an infant and the baby she now held in her arms. (“Different nose, same mouth.”) The contemporaneous handwritten letters — one from Slick Rock, Colorado, in 1979, the other from Granite, Oregon, in 1980 — represented just a sliver of a huge body of correspondence that Johnson’s mother had produced during a nomadic and austere period of their lives when the family was moving from one remote mining community to another.

As Johnson recalls in Mettlework: A Mining Daughter on Making Home, letters like these were her mother’s way of “writing herself out of the immediate situation,” a method of both romanticizing and transcending hardship. Hence it wasn’t just the Polaroids that traced parallels between the generations. Having since become a poet and creative writer, Johnson saw some of her mother’s epistolary motivations mirrored in her own impulse to write.

“She read and wrote all the time,” Johnson says from

hard, I couldn’t rely on that at the time, just because of the norms of pregnancy,” she says.

“So I thought, OK, if I really need community to even approach motherhood, it sort of revealed to me the ways in which maybe I wasn’t rid of all of that individualism after all. Some of those ideas that I thought I had left behind were actually still with me.”

That realization prompted Johnson to juxtapose her current circumstances with the rural extremes that she’d known as a child. She was now living in a house in a coastal metropolis, not a tent at the end of a dirt track. Her career as a community college instructor stood in stark contrast to her mother’s as homemaker and visual artist or her father’s as an itinerant mining engineer. Even her relatively stationary teenage years living just outside of Coeur d’Alene seemed worlds away.

“I struggled, as many primary caregivers do, with the pressure to be an employee as my father had been, and also to be a parent like my mother had been in a culture where parenthood can be really all-consuming. To some extent, my real beef was with frontier ideology and motherhood in that context, and individualism and isolation as opposed to valuing community relationships and a purpose outside of extractive industry,” she says.

Over time, her research and reflections took the form of essays published in River Teeth and The Southeast Review, which then further evolved into Mettlework. In writing the memoir, Johnson hoped to reconcile the competing and sometimes incompatible narratives in her life, thereby closing “the gap between story and document,” as she explains in her author’s note.

But Mettlework’s scope invariably expanded as her own perspective did. A good portion of the book was written largely between 2016 and 2019 — a time Johnson describes as “years of heightened activism in Portland” — and was also influenced by the students she was seeing and teaching daily at Portland Community College.

her home in Portland. “She enjoyed finding language for things. And the culture of books and reading and writing was very much a part of the family on her side.”

Writing was therefore something that Johnson herself came to view as “this supercharged and nearly magical thing — the idea that wherever you are, you can reach out through words and communicate,” she explains.

“I sort of got it into my head pretty early that no matter where I was, I could write my way toward where I wanted to be and it often would work. It did seem like the way into the world, the way... to bridge this isolation that was always such a problem.”

Isolation, both physical and figurative, would define much of Johnson’s childhood. In Mettlework, it feeds into seductive and sentimentalized notions of rugged individualism and self-reliance. The experience would later lead her to reevaluate her conception of motherhood, particularly as it relates to late-capitalist consumer society and the enduring myths of the American West.

“A pretty formative or important moment for me was when I became pregnant for the first time. I realized that I couldn’t rely even on my own body. I could hardly even stay awake. And my ability to kind of dig deep and work

“There’s a lot of refugee communities and a lot of folks displaced by gentrification, a lot of communities of color and a lot of poverty there. So it’s like a daily immersion in people with just a very wide range of experiences that you have to be attentive to in order to do your job effectively,” she says.

“One of the reasons I continued with the writing of the book was as a way of being thoughtful about where it is I come from when I’m trying to show up in more diverse community spaces. It’s important to think about where one is from and what one is bringing to the space. And I come from a particular and unusual slice of the country, and I wanted to really explore what that meant.” By and large, though, Mettlework is primarily concerned with the elusive concept of home — how parents and children might (mis)remember it, where it overlaps and intersects with parenthood, what it means in a transient and unconventional environment, and why it’s “something to be tended, something to be cultivated,” as Johnson maintains.

“Toward the end of the book,” she says, “what I’m hoping to come to is a making of home. Not in a place that can be ‘yours,’ but more in the quality of one’s relationships with land and people. That for me is a sense of home that rests in what I’m finding to be more durable values, values that are more friendly to women and children.” n

Jessica Johnson BECCA BLEVINS PHOTO

GONZAGA BASKETBALL OFFSEASON CHECK-IN

The Zags men and women add impact transfers, while the WCC adds new schools

BY WILL MAUPIN

Gonzaga’s on-court action may have ended in March, but in the modern college basketball landscape, there’s still off-court action in the months that follow.

SAME LEAGUE, NEW LOOK

This upcoming season will see an 11-team WCC for the first time, with the additions of Washington State and Oregon State on a temporary, two-year basis. But that’s not the only new development in WCC membership. Starting in 2025, Seattle University and Grand Canyon are also joining the fray.

Seattle U is a traditional fit as a smaller, Jesuit university located in the WCC’s existing West Coast footprint. Their basketball program is on the upswing as well, which helps. While the Redhawks haven’t made the NCAA Tournament since rejoining Division I ranks in 2009, SU did win the 2021-22 WAC regular season title.

Grand Canyon is more of an outlier. When GCU joined Division I in 2013, it did so as the first and only for-profit school. Depending on who you ask, GCU remains for-profit; GCU claims otherwise, but the Department of Education begs to differ (Google “GCU scandal”).

While things may be sketchy off the court, the Lopes have shown real aptitude in recent seasons on the court. The squad has made the NCAA Tournament three of the last four years, including a first-round loss to Gonzaga in 2023 and a first-round victory over St. Mary’s in Spokane back in March. The Lopes should be an instant competitor for second place in the WCC.

INCOMING IMPACT

Last season, the transfer portal hit the Zags hard when Hunter Sallis, Dominick Harris and Efton Reid packed their bags and left the program. This year has been a completely different story.

The transfers coming in to replace Anton Watson and three departing end of the bench players (Luka Krajnovic, Pavle Stosic, Colby Brooks) have a track record of stuffing the stat sheet. After a season with virtually no depth, next season’s Zags will be loaded.

The first addition was Michael Ajayi from Pepperdine. A 6-foot-7 wing, Ajayi brings athleticism and all-around production to a spot that the Zags would otherwise be lacking. Averaging 17.2 points (tops in the

WCC) and 9.9 rebounds (second in the WCC) while shooting a strong 47% from behind the 3-point arc, Ajayi was named first team All-WCC last season. After flirting with the NBA Draft, he’s ready to slide into GU’s starting lineup.

Arkansas transfer Khalif Battle averaged 14.8 points per game a season ago and was prone to explode for significantly more on occasion. The sixth-year senior surpassed 30 points three times and went for 42 against Missouri.

Rising sophomore Emmanuel Innocenti, from Italy by way of Tarleton State, also joins the fray. The 6-foot-5 wing averaged solid numbers with 6.6 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, but his biggest impact was on the defensive end. He earned All-Defensive and All-Freshman team honors in the WAC.

Additionally, reigning Patriot League Player of the Year Braeden Smith will follow the tried-and-true Gonzaga tradition of entering the program, redshirting for a year and then taking the reins after that. The Seattle native will have two years of eligibility remaining as he looks to be the Zags’ point guard of the future starting in 2025.

THE WOMEN REBOUND

Lisa Fortier’s team is coming off its best season under her watch, but many of the reasons for last season’s success are now gone after the Troung twins and Brynna Maxwell graduated. A massive rebuild is underway. Thankfully, perhaps the GU’s best player — Yvonne Ejim — is back. The reigning WCC player of the year (and probable Olympian for team Canada this summer) was the focal point of the offense last year, and fans can expect even more from her this upcoming season. Because Gonzaga will need it.

The Zags will be asking new incoming guard transfers like UConn’s Ines Bettencourt and Saint Mary’s Tayla Dalton to buoy the Zags by stepping up big in new roles. The Bulldogs’ depth will be further bolstered by two more transfers: Minnesota forward McKynnlie Dalan and junior college guard Vera Gunaydin. Coming off their best season ever, Gonzaga lost a ton of firepower. But the program as a whole is still in the best place it’s ever been. n

For a longer offseason recap, check out the Kennel Corner blog at Inlander.com/Zags.

THE BUZZ BIN

FIELD OF DREAMS

On May 23, Spokane Indians grounds crew and front office staff, alongside volunteers from Les Schwab Tires, spent their day restoring Medical Lake High School’s baseball field as part of the team’s Community Fields Project. While the field wasn’t impacted by last summer’s devastating Gray Fire, which burned more than 10,000 acres and 259 structures, the field needed some TLC after several years without any improvements. “It couldn’t be better for Medical Lake,” said Otto Klein, the team’s senior vice president. “Look what they’ve been through.” The restoration included rebuilding the pitcher’s mound, sanding and repainting the bleachers, applying Turface sports field conditioner to the infield, and several other improvements. (MADISON PEARSON)

BALAZS IN THE WEST

Seattle Center recently gained a new piece of public art with a style that’s instantly recognizable by most locals. On June 3, a 6-foot-tall bronze sculpture called “Walk Around Thing” by the late Spokane artist Harold Balazs was unveiled in the walkway between the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Noted work by Balazs in the Spokane area includes the Rotary Fountain in Riverfront Park and the “Lantern” sculpture behind the First Interstate Center for the Arts. The new-to-Seattle piece was chosen because it can be viewed and engaged with from multiple perspectives, a signature aspect of Balazs’ work. (MADISON PEARSON)

THIS WEEK’S PLAYLIST

Noteworthy new music arriving in stores and online on June 7.

CHARLI XCX, BRAT

Pop’s queen of aggressive, electro club bangers is back to make the dance floor super sensual (to the point of being kinda scary) once again.

PEDRO THE LION, SANTA CRUZ

Beloved Seattle indie singer-songwriter David Bazan continues his series of memoiristic albums about his youth with a collection of songs covering the raw emotional messiness of his teenage years.

BON JOVI, FOREVER

After 40+ years of rocking, Bon Jovi is still livin’ on a prayer. (Though hopefully the band is more than halfway there by this point. If not? Get a map, my dudes.) (SETH SOMMERFELD)

ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

CHIHULY GARDEN & GLASS PHOTO

Judgment in Paris

As the United States only joined the Bureau of International Expositions in 1968, Spokane would be the first American fair to seek its approval to stage a World’s Fair. The application was a massive undertaking — all eight Senators from Washington, Idaho, Montana and Oregon stood in support, and the White House got on board, too.

Then, in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower over the course of weeks, Spokane’s representative, King Cole, had to revise the documentation even more to counter every objection — then have it all translated into French! Finally, on Nov. 24, 1971, the BIE made the unanimous decision to “enregestrée l’Exposition de Spokane,” and the race to host the world was on.

The secret behind Expo, according to King Cole: “[We] didn’t know any better!”

Man of the Year

EXPO LEGACY

King Cole was “the one essential person” behind the Expo miracle

BY BILL YOUNGS

According to Neal Fosseen, Spokane’s mayor shortly before Expo ’74, King Cole was “the one essential person in Spokane’s rebirth.” I heard this sentiment often while conducting interviews for The Fair and the Falls. The essential interviewee for my book was, of course, King Cole himself. While doing research, I had the pleasure of spending about 30 hours interviewing the famous president of Expo ’74; Cole passed away in 2010. I have written many thousands of words about Cole, and he had many, many strengths — enthusiasm, drive, a sense of humor and his human touch. As a result, Cole got Spokane to buy into the idea of renewing Spokane’s dingy urban core — the task he was given when local business leaders hired him. Cole recalled: “We went out and canvassed almost 200 organizations, everything — labor, service clubs, garden clubs, churches, Masonic Temple — everybody.” This was in 1964, before anyone in Spokane dreamed of hosting a world’s fair. But this pattern of outreach was characteristic of Cole’s work leading up to the fair a decade later.

Afterwards he and others embraced the idea of hosting an international exposition as a route to renewal. But Cole realized that the path to becoming the smallest city on earth ever to hold a world’s fair would not be easy. He reflected: “Expo was a miracle. We were too small, and we had a theme that was impossible. Ecology — who ever heard of that? And a site that was strictly rapids. We went in and did it anyway — didn’t know any better!”

David Peterson, Expo vice president, noted that Cole “absolutely would not let the project die — picked it up and just would not let it die. I don’t think it was so much the vision as it was that he just absolutely would not let it die.”

Accomplishing the impossible required Cole to circle the globe seeking exhibitors. He tells this story about what happened after one of his flights. He was in a barber chair; the barber noticed Cole was fidgeting and asked him if he was OK. “My gosh,” Cole replied, “I was looking for my seatbelt!”

King Cole’s favorite phrase in encouraging Spokane’s rebirth was this: “The downtown is to the city as the heart is to the body. You can’t let it die.”

Thanks to King Cole, Spokane’s “heart” survived perilous times — and beats strongly to this day.

Bill Youngs is an EWU history professor and author of the definitive history of Expo ’74, The Fair and the Falls — now out in an updated 2024 edition.

MARKING 50 YEARS

Every week in the Inlander through the end of June, look for these Expo 50 pages, where Bill Youngs will guide you through the improbable story of the 1974 World’s Fair.

Iran and Expo ’74

The Iranian Pavilion at Expo featured a montage of the royal palace at Persepolis; mirrored walls gave the visitor a sense of being among the ruins of the ancient capital.

Visiting the fair, the Iranian ambassador, Ardeshir Zahedi, was welcomed with a banquet at the Davenport Hotel, featuring whole roasted pigs, caviar and chicken kabob prepared by an Iranian chef. When complimented on his English, the ambassador explained that on his first trip to America he had known no English. “So,” he said, “I ate ham and eggs and coffee three times a day for three weeks, because that was all I could

SIGNATURE EVENT LEGISLATIVE SUMMIT

June 21 | Convention Center | 8 am-4 pm Hosted by The Lands Council, this event picks up where Expo ’74’s Environmental Symposium left off. At the Summit, legislators and local experts will craft legislation on six locally important topics, all with a climate justice thread; these proposed bills will be sponsored in the 2025 Legislative Session and could become law if passed. The day will start with

say. Then I decided to learn English!”

Courtesies, in return, flowed from the Middle East to Spokane. One day an Iranian official announced to King Cole, “You must go to Iran, immediately. You and your family. The queen just wants to thank you.”

The Coles flew to Tehran, enjoyed a royal sight-seeing tour and met the queen. She was gracious, welcoming the Coles, then asked, “Where is the rest of your family?”

Apparently, the invitation was meant to include all eight of their children!

“I never told the kids this,” Cole noted. “They would have died.” (BILL YOUNGS)

a Native Opening Ceremony, while City of Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown as well as Gov. Jay Inslee will speak at breakfast. This event is hosted in collaboration with the Tribal Pillar and features a symbolic salmon release and prayer at noon, as well as a traditional canoe race on the Spokane River to mark the end of the Summit. The last event is a traditional salmon and bison dinner with Indigenous side dishes to round off the day. Please see the full program and register at landscouncil.org/events.

THANK YOU TO OUR SIGNATURE SPONSORS!

EXPO 50 EVENTS

SPOKANE RIVER CLEANUP

June 8 | Spokane River | 10 am

Honor the legacy of Expo ’74’s environmentalism and join the Spokane Riverkeeper and friends in cleaning up the Spokane River! They will guide groups of volunteers along the river near downtown, picking up litter from its banks. They will provide pickers, gloves, bags and disposal. People of all ages are welcome. Wear good walking shoes. Meet at the parking lot at 820 E. Trent Ave.

EXPO ’74 50TH ANNIVERSARY COMMUNITY STAGE

June 8 | Manito Park by Duncan Garden | 11 am-4 pm

SIGNATURE EVENT PRESENTED BY WASHINGTON TRUST BANK | NONSTOP LOCAL KHQ | GARCO CONSTRUCTION

The Community Stage will be located at Manito Park during the Manito Art Festival for this select Saturday. 10:30 am: Natanam Dance School; 11 am: Scottish Dancers; 12:15 pm: Native Voices; 1 pm: Taiko / Bon Odori Dancers; 2:30 pm: Milonga.

SPOKANE PRIDE PARADE & FESTIVAL

June 8 | Riverfront Park | noon

In the 32 years of celebrating Spokane Pride, the city has made so much progress as a community — join in the celebration! The parade kicks off at noon, while the Pride Festival runs noon through 6 pm, with all-ages programming continuing after 6 pm.

SPOKANE INDIANS VS. HILLSBORO HOPS

June 9 | Avista Stadium | 1:05 pm

Don’t miss the first ever Ballpark Bugs & Stadium Snakes day game. Bugs and Snakes Spokane will be on site to show off their reptile friends. Also, players will wear special Expo ’74-themed jerseys in line with the citywide 50th anniversary celebration. A special ticket offer includes an Upper Box Seat, an Indians Dog and a bag of chips for just $19.74.

STREET MUSIC WEEK

June 10-14 | various locations | noon-1 pm Street Music Week is in its 22nd year, where volunteer musicians play music on the sidewalks of downtown Spokane, downtown Coeur d’Alene and in the Garland District to raise money to benefit Second Harvest Food Bank. Since it started in 2002, Street Music Week has raised over $320,000 for food insecure people in our community. The fun happens from noon to 1 pm every day June 10-14.

For the full schedule of Expo 50th events, head to Expo50Spokane.com

Two hostesses at the Iranian Pavilion show off their antiquities. MAC PHOTO

OPENING

Need for Mead

Emrys Beer & Mead Works, a modern-meets-historical brewery, is finally open in Liberty Lake

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

Thomas Croskrey stands over a small kettle as he simmers two-and-half gallons of honey. He checks the viscosity with a long spoon. Suddenly, he darts across the brewing room and bounds up a step ladder to check on a bigger kettle, making sure the boil is just right — a proper roil, but not so violent that it bubbles over the top. The room is bright, and an open back door lets in a breeze that gently swirls soft perfumes of honey and hops, while Croskrey does what he does best: creates.

Croskrey is the head brewer and founder of Emrys Beer & Mead Works, a project that’s been in the works since 2015 and is finally celebrating its grand opening in Liberty Lake this June. Emrys means “immortal” in Welsh, which fits Croskrey’s undying enthusiasm to bring the meadery to life, but also his modern-historical fusion concept that resurrects an ancient drink for contemporary palates.

Mead, an alcoholic beverage made from fermented honey, is currently the oldest fermented drink on historical record.

“Mead is so wildly different from other alcoholic beverages,” Croskrey says. “It’s the only one not made out of plants. It is made out of an animal product.”

When Croskrey helped open Bellwether Brewing with Dave Musser in 2015, he wanted to include mead in their taproom. But they soon found out that mead required a different license than beer and was going to be difficult to get. After he and Musser amicably parted ways in 2019, Croskrey set out to build his own brewerymeadery combo. He set his sights on a spot in Liberty Lake’s Riverstone District by the end of that year and set a target opening date for September 2020.

COVID, however, had other plans.

“What I lacked in fortune-telling, I made up for in stubbornness,” Croskrey says.

There were days he felt no forward momentum. But Croskrey started brainstorming anyway, tapping local chef Travis Dickinson to help finalize Emrys’ food menu. Croskrey originally planned to offer smashburgers, but after hosting a few pairing dinners at Dickinson’s Cochinito Taqueria, the team dreamed up a “peasant food” concept that would riff off historical meals to compliment the ancient mead.

After the restaurant world went topsy-turvey and Croskrey got new, post-pandemic cost analyses, he returned to the original smashburger plan. Guests can nosh on a single, double, triple or quad smashburger ($12-$22), or a frankfurter topped with bacon, onion-pickle marmalade and sauerkraut ($13), or a veggie smashburger with grilled mushroom, hummus, havarti and hot honey ($12). Oh, and don’t skip the pickle fries ($5/small, $8/large).

But a few snacks do nod to distant history. Emrys offers griddled bakestones, a traditional Welsh sweetbread

Unique drinks, thanks to research, stubbornness and creativity. YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

from the 1800s. At Emrys, they’re stuffed with rosemary and currants and served with either jam and whipped cream or cheddar and hot honey ($6/two, $10/four).

Yet most of the honey on hand will always be reserved for Croskrey’s mead. After he started learning to brew beer, mead was the next logical step for Croskrey, whose background blends farming and animal husbandry.

“I come from some strong ranching in Montana, so just growing and farming and ranching in general was really fascinating and exciting to me,” he says. “It included learning about fruit, and then I learned about pollination, and I learned about bees. Also, I really, really like history. I like knowing where we came from so that we know where we’re going. Mead is extremely historical.”

It also scratched a creative itch for Croskrey, who dropped his career as a rock violinist to settle into family and business life.

“I find mead to be the most versatile,” he says. “It can be infused with fruit, botanicals, any old thing you want. It can be low ABV, high ABV, carbonated, still, blended, barrel aged.”

New meads are rolling out as Emrys works through its soft opening. So far, Haze of Annwn has hit the taps, a botanical mead with hops, juniper berries and catnip, as well as a mead seltzer called Return to Innocence. Croskrey has been teasing his social media with pictures of forthcoming lilac-infused mead.

There are also plenty of options for dedicated beer drinkers. Some are collaborations with the Grain Shed, but a pilot series of the first beers made onsite are also available. Pilot Series #2, for example, is a Norwegian farmhouse and Northwest pale ale fusion, while Pilot Series #3 is a rare herbal pale ale with rosemary and lemongrass.

In his quest to create ancient food and drink, Croskrey has gotten more in touch with the environment and ecosystems around him today. His brewing requires about 20,000 pounds of honey a year, which is far more than any local apiaries can supply him. He sources as much honey from Washington beekeepers as possible, and tries to reduce shipping material and fuel costs when he does need to import honey from Californian or Hawaiian hives.

In a time when many consumers and environmentalists are worried about dwindling populations of honeybees and trying to “Save the Bees,” Croskrey wants to take a step back to think about the larger ecosystem being affected.

“I’ve probably got a slightly different opinion than some people on this,” he says. “And it’s partly because [honeybees] are an agricultural animal. They’re not native to our area … they sometimes displace bumblebees and other native species. Sometimes honeybees can act like an invasive species,” he continues. “So I’m very much in favor of saving and protecting bees. But I do try to focus a lot on the native pollinators, butterflies and moths and ants, even bats.”

Not only does Croskrey want to preserve the history and tradition of mead for the next generations, he wants to make sure the environment that supplies the honey, herbs and hops to do so is healthy for those generations, too. He’ll never claim to be able to tell the future, but he’ll put his stubbornness toward creating a better one. n

Emrys Beer & Mead Works • 21850 E. Wellington Pkwy., Liberty Lake • Open Mon, Wed and Thu 11 am-9 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am-10 pm, Sun 11 am-8 pm • facebook.com/EmrysFermentations • 509-505-4519

Left: Frankfurters and smashburgers round out Emrys’ food menu. Right: Owner Thomas Croskrey in his happy place.

THE GIRL WHO WORE FREEDOM

To celebrate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the Magic Lantern screens this documentary sharing the stories of the people of Normandy who were liberated from Nazi occupation thanks to the Allied forces. Rated PG-13 At the Magic Lantern

THE WATCHERS

The debut supernatural horror film from writer/director Ishana Night Shyamalan (M.’s daughter), finds a young woman (Dakota Fanning) stranded in a remote forest in Ireland only to be brought into a shelter by strangers trying to survive the mysterious creatures that terrorize them each night. Rated PG-13

be

TV REVIEW

Obut

EYE ON THE BALL

Clipped dramatizes a notorious basketball scandal with humor and insight

BY JOSH BELL

n the surface, the 2014 scandal over racist remarks made by Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling doesn’t seem like it would sustain a six-episode narrative miniseries. But Clipped creator Gina Welch smartly explores all the issues raised by the Sterling incident, while delivering nuanced portrayals of the real people involved. Although it occasionally feels padded, Clipped is consistently gripping, with a quartet of fantastic lead performances and sharp, often funny dialogue.

Based on the ESPN 30 for 30 podcast The Sterling Affairs, Clipped begins with narration from V. Stiviano (Cleopatra Coleman), the very personal “assistant” to Sterling who was depicted in the media as a gold-digging social climber. That’s not necessarily an inaccurate assessment, but Clipped finds the tragic longing in V’s position, as she attempts to compensate for a troubled childhood by finding external validation and becoming the stable provider she never had.

of their relationship, V truly is Sterling’s assistant, and she records their conversations ostensibly as a means of reminding this oblivious old man of things he’s agreed to do. When Sterling’s equally privileged wife Shelly (Jacki Weaver) gets fed up with the expensive gifts that Donald is giving V (including a duplex to house her family), she files a lawsuit to retrieve what she believes is community property. A hurt V leaks a recording to TMZ where Sterling rants against V’s public association with “minorities,” including NBA legend Magic Johnson.

Clipped

Created by Gina Welch

Starring Laurence Fishburne, Cleopatra Coleman, Ed O’Neill, Jacki Weaver

Clipped provides origin stories for V’s eye-catching public behavior, including her penchant for bizarre face-covering visors, but also shows her in the process of adopting two foster children, boys she genuinely cares about and wants to nurture. With the Kardashians as a constant background presence on TV and social media, the series also recognizes that for a certain type of woman, chasing reality-TV fame may seem like the only route to a prosperous, fulfilling life. When Sterling (Ed O’Neill) chastises the mixedrace V for being photographed with Black people, he’s expressing the implicit point of view of the entrenched white, moneyed establishment.

Streaming on Hulu

The leak comes just as new coach Doc Rivers (Laurence Fishburne) is turning around the Clippers’ reputation as perhaps the most hapless team in the NBA, even securing them a spot in the playoffs. Rivers himself is a consultant on Clipped, so it’s no surprise that Rivers comes across as the only main character with anything resembling sense, despite occasional missteps. He’s still a complex character, reckoning with his position as a highly paid Black employee of a man notorious for treating Black players like expensive personal pets. At least Rivers is less compromised than longtime Clippers president Andy Roeser (Kelly AuCoin), whose dedicated sycophancy ultimately gets him nowhere.

Series creator Welch keeps Clipped focused on backstage intrigue. There’s maybe 10 minutes of actual basketball-playing across the six episodes. Clipped owes more to movies like Moneyball and Steven Soderbergh’s High Flying Bird than to a typical sports drama, and whether the Clippers win or lose their games is almost incidental, relevant only in how it reflects their response to Sterling’s now-public insults against his players.

whose influence extends far beyond the court. Sterling is a reprehensible narcissist whose decades of wealth hoarding as a real estate mogul have taught him that he’s insulated from any consequences, and he’s largely correct. It requires a direct recording of clear, unambiguous racist language to take him down, and even then most of the Clippers players don’t believe that he’ll actually be punished.

Those players are the weak link in Clipped, with thinly sketched individual details that seem to assume audiences will fill in the gaps based on their existing fame. That’s only a minor issue, given how strong a presence Fishburne provides as Rivers, who sees it as his responsibility to navigate the response to the scandal so that the players can focus on basketball. A midseason flashback episode mostly offers details that have already been implied, but it’s powerful when showing a young Rivers, himself then a player for the Clippers, dealing with the racial politics of the 1992 Los Angeles riots.

Fishburne is excellent at portraying a man of principle who knows just how far standing up for his principles will get him, but O’Neill, Weaver and Coleman are excellent as well, playing much less principled people whose motivations come down to money and power. Weaver strikes an especially difficult balance as Shelly, who sometimes seems like the long-suffering wife of a monster, but has made her own decisions about where her allegiances lie, and can be just as ruthless and conniving as her husband. As V, Coleman gives this tabloid caricature real depth, even if her choices often seem pathetic.

He’s also being recorded by V, which is what sets off the entire scandal. Despite the salacious undertones

That backstage intrigue is fascinating, and Clipped emphasizes the NBA as a cultural and financial institution,

By the end of its six episodes, Clipped has told an entertaining story with surprisingly far-reaching implications about race, wealth and fame in America, without ever having to leave the bounds of the specific Sterling scandal. n

The NBA Finals might

happening,

Clipped focuses on off-court drama.

Too Old for This Shit

Bad Boys: Ride or Die benefits from Will Smith and Martin Lawrence’s chemistry but little else

BY CHASE HUTCHINSON

If a van explodes in the streets of Miami after a duo of maniac cops get in yet another obligatory gunfight and everyone is around to hear, does Martin Lawrence still shout out a silly one-liner? If you live in the world of Bad Boys, not only is the answer always yes… but it’s just another average Tuesday. That the city is still standing after a fourth movie of murder and mayhem is more remarkable than anything playing out in the latest raucous yet frustratingly rote sequel.

But the titular Bad Boys Mike (Will Smith) and Marcus (Lawrence) have never let a pesky little thing like public safety get in the way of unleashing old-fashioned chaos when working a case. There’s no problem in the world that they can’t solve with a combination of bullets and banter.

And wouldn’t you know it, this time the case is personal. After their departed captain is framed for corruption, the two partners must get to the bottom of who is really behind it. However, first Mike gets hitched, and Marcus has to recover from a near-death experience after wobbling too hard on the dance floor. The absurdity of this start soon gives way to a ride lacking in well-constructed action and humor.

gravitas by bringing in the great Rhea Seehorn (Better Call Saul) to play a new character with personal ties of her own to the case, she is completely wasted, which indicates where the film’s true priorities lie.

Mike having panic attacks combined with an odd reverence for the original films is more unintentionally comical than compelling. For every moment where Marcus plays real-life Frogger (he had a vision saying it was not his time to die and thus thinks himself invincible), there is a litany of scattered shootouts that, whatever you think of him, lack the kinetic energy of Bay’s past films. Even as there are plenty of drone shots, only once near the end does this feel fluid and serve the action. A standout fight in a kitchen is the best of the bunch as not only does it actually feel exciting, but it serves up the film’s best punchline based on who is brawling. But mostly Ride or Die offers up poorly staged and shot action.

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

Directed by Adil El Arbi, Bilall Fallah

Starring Will Smith, Martin Lawrence

The biggest surprise of Bad Boys: Ride or Die, the second film to be directed by the duo of Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah (as opposed series originator Michael Bay), doesn’t come from its painfully familiar by-the-numbers case. No, the biggest surprise is how sluggish this action flick is, getting lost in the woods as the duo go on the run.

While it flirts with being a more ridiculous romp surrounding death, drugs and the afterlife, it’s also a bizarrely self-serious experience with some of the most forgettable action of the franchise. Though it initially tries to give the story something approaching

What still works is the chemistry between Smith and Lawrence. Though they’ve been doing these movies for more than two decades now, nothing about their back-and-forth feels tired. Where many of the other one-note characters are often excruciatingly stiff, they ensure that the heart of the film has enough humor to almost smooth over its many rough spots. But for all the potentially audacious and absurd moments of earned humor early in the film, things quickly fall back on standard jokes and lackluster action.

There is a late gag where Smith is slapped multiple times in the face that could be read as being a reference to his infamous moment at the Oscars, but that is merely a small jolt in a film that largely lacks the juice. When it comes to the question posed in its title, the film neither rides nor dies. Instead, it just coasts along.

Bad boys, bad boys, whatcha gonna do? Apparently, run this franchise on fumes as long as they can. n

Lawrence and Smith’s charisma still pops, but everything else flops.

LOCAL PUNK RAP

There’s a term NFL coaches and scouts use to describe a compact running back with violent running style — “a bowling ball of butcher knives.” And while that’s a fun way to describe a Marshawn Lynch-type force on the gridiron, that evocative phrase seems to apply even better to the punk rap stylings of Spokane MC Jang the Goon.

A fixture in the local hip-hop scene since dropping his first album Alone by Choice in 2017, the football descriptor is more than apt if you’ve ever caught Jang the Goon live. He doesn’t simply rhythmically recite rhymes when he takes a stage, he goes wild

THE SONG REMAINS THE JANG

Spokane’s own Jang the Goon finally feels fully himself on Goon Shii: Vol. 1

BY SETH SOMMERFELD

with the violent ferocity of an unchained kaiju. Jang’s not trying to get an audience to sync with his groove, he’s lyrically tossing Molotov cocktails and trying to get a musical riot going. With hints of rappers ranging from Tyler, the Creator to DMX but with a distinct punk rock edge, there’s a reason Jang the Goon (aka Elijah Kilborn, and formerly known as just Jango) has previously been voted Best Hip-Hop Artist by Inlander readers.

But for Jang, the music on Alone By Choice never felt like it was fully an expression of his true self. That album was inspired by the more melodic hip-hop artists of the region who were around and inspiring him at the time — MCs like Spokane’s Lou Era or Seattle’s Sam Lachow, Travis Thompson and Dave B.

“The music was kind of like hip-hop pop-ish. But my live performance was so different than that — it was so energetic, it was so me,” Jang says. “I’m like yelling I’m like a punk star, but I’m rapping. And then for years, I performed like that, and the music didn’t quite match that style.”

While Jang’s remained active with live shows over the years, it’d been seven years since he put out a new collection of music. Until now. Jang just dropped his new EP mixtape Goon Shii Vol. 1, a collection that shows off his talents and the punk rap sound he wants to call his own. And on June 8, Jang the Goon heads to the Chameleon to unveil the full live fury of Goon Shii Vol. 1

Even sitting down talking to Jang in a tea shop, his charismatic kinetic energy fills the room as he injects guttural sounds and growling while getting hyped up talking about Goon Shii Vol. 1.

While his grandad would throw on Jay-Z albums, Jang’s musical style is better explained by his childhood best friend introducing him to Linkin Park. He still cites the Linkin Park remix album Reanimation as his “favorite music ever,” saying “I went back to listening to that, and then tried to redevelop that style and sound. I want to take that epicness, and put it into my music.”

To help him achieve his sonic goals, he turned to his DJ/ engineer/mixer Josh Lorenzen (also owner of the Chameleon) to find that more aggressive sound suiting his live persona. While the project had been in the works over a year ago, after Jang wrote the track “Head Honcho,” he realized that he’d discovered the sound he wanted and remade everything centered around that feel.

Goon Shii Vol. 1 serves as Jang the Goon’s streamlined reintroduction to the musical world. It’s an unrelenting blast of raw confidence.

“‘Head Honcho’ is my baby. ‘Goon Shii’ is my favorite song. ‘Roof on Fire’ is my ego. ‘What’s the Muv’ is my swag, it’s my steez. ‘Goons in the Forest’ has my brother TOPP on it, so that’s my handshake, that’s my nod to somebody,” Jang says with frenzied enthusiasm.

“I don’t necessarily consider myself a rapper, I consider myself more of like a Black rock star,” he continues. “I consider my music more like alternative hip-hop with an essence of punk, you dig? So it was important to me that that was represented all throughout the project. I wanted rock bands to be able to listen to this project and like it. I wanted to be able to touch a demographic that I feel like hip-hop in this city never touches.”

Beyond homing in on a signature sound, Jang had some

Take a ride with Jang the Goon. KAY GONZALES PHOTO

major personal events — both joyous and heartbreaking — occur along the path to Goon Shii Vol. 1. When he swings by for our interview, he’s accompanied by his partner and their daughter who’s just turned 1. She’s a smiley little ball of energy just like her pops, and she arrived just after a life event on the opposite end of the spectrum for the rapper.

“It’s such an insane time in my life. Right before I had my child, my father passed in October 2022,” Jang shares. “But the cool thing was, I found out my partner was pregnant beforehand. And so I was able to tell my dad. He was living in Texas at the time, but we were able to talk on FaceTime and pray about it and talk about it. I was able to get advice from him and his thoughts on having children.”

Jang pauses after he says this, caught up in a genuine wave of emotion before continuing.

“I’m proud to be her dad. And I think that’s another reason why this music means so much to me, because I feel like I’m standing on my own two feet more than ever. I’m just taking care of my business,” he says, a bit choked up. “I feel like now for the first time, I’m truthfully stepping into my first part of manhood.”

Part of his growth plan involves AFFILI8D, the Spokanebased hip-hop collective started by fellow rapper IAMTOPP. The collective’s goal is to unite area artists to create a thriving ecosystem where shared production, video creation, live shows and more can create a unified aesthetic that will lead to growing and merging fanbases, hopefully lifting the scene as a whole and breaking the proverbial glass ceiling of Spokane acts getting recognition beyond the region.

“TOPP is from Tri-Cities. So the 509 being the whole eastern side of Washington — all of us are looked over,” says Jang, who joined AFFILI8D in 2023. “Like, when people think of Washington, they just think Seattle. This whole half side of Washington, people don’t look at.”

With Jang the Goon, IAMTOPP, Bapeface, Zaeshaun Haze, NorthWestKid, TheBoyBeerus and videographer/photographer Kay Gonzalez, AFFILI8D hopes the shared creative energy and healthy internal competition among members can lead to a grunge-like boom on the hip-hop side of things.

In March the collective dropped its first mixtape, the foursong EP 88 Days In, and there’s plenty more music on the horizon. Jang says he’s already about 70% done with Goon Shii Vol. 2, has also completed 80% of an alternative R&B record called When Goons Cry, and is planning to put out a duo project with TOPP.

Perhaps the essence of Jang and Goon Shii Vol. 1 can be best encapsulated by his favorite bar on the album from “Head Honcho”: “Back on my bullshit / Independent — I ain’t looking for validation, n----s thought I would lose it. I ain’t worried, I’ve been stalking on ammunition.”

“I think that line was cool, because it was my truth and my reality at its purest form,” he says. “They thought I would really lose my touch, my grasp on reality with losing my father and with having a child. Like I went quiet for six months when my father passed, but I buried myself into the music, I buried myself in my truths, I buried myself around loved ones. That bar really represents a mind over matter thing. Now I have a reason why, more than ever. I feel like I have something to prove — not to folks — but to myself.”

The Goon Shii Vol. 1 release show at The Chameleon will be the latest step on that process of proving it. Jang the Goon isn’t a kid anymore, and all he’s really hoping for from the concert is for the local community to show out and lift him up… literally

“I want enough people there to surf the crowd. I know that’s silly, but to me, I want to be able to be suspended while listening to my music from my project playing and everybody raging. I want to look at them and experience that. To me, I feel like that’d be the most blissful and rewarding thing after putting so much time into this project,” Jang says. “I hope people can feel my passion, my energy and my truths at that show. I hope they feel it in its rawest form.” n

Jang the Goon: Goon Shii Vol. 1 Mixtape Release Show with IAMTOPP, Young Neves • Sat, June 8 at 8 pm • $15-$30 • 21+ • The Chameleon • 1801 W. Sunset Blvd. • chameleonspokane.com

Third Time’s the Charm

After multiple stops, pop punk staple Yellowcard is reveling in fans’ revived interest

BY AZARIA PODPLESKY

There was a time when you couldn’t go more than a few minutes without hearing a catchy violin-laden pop punk song from Yellowcard’s fourth album Ocean Avenue. Or at least it felt that way.

The title track was a mainstay on the radio airwaves after its release in 2003, peaking in the top 40 of multiple Billboard charts. The music video, featuring singer Ryan Key trying to escape a time-loop that starts with him sprawled on the sidewalk covered in broken glass, reached #3 on MTV’s Total Request Live (remember TRL?) and received the MTV2 Award at the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards. The albums other singles — “Way Away” and “Only One” — also made waves on the charts.

The Florida-born and California-raised band followed Ocean Avenue with the more alt-rock-leaning Lights and Sounds in 2006 and Paper Walls in 2007 before deciding to take an indefinite hiatus.

“In 2008 the band decided that we were going to take some time off the road and get away from making records and touring for a while just to recharge the batteries and recalibrate, I guess,” Key said in a 2016 interview with Alternative Press. “We didn’t really know what the future held or when we would get back together to make music again. We weren’t necessarily breaking up the band, we didn’t really know what was going to come next.”

What came next, after the band’s 2010 reformation, were three more albums. First 2011’s When You’re Through Thinking, Say Yes, then Southern Air and Lift a

Sail. But the band ended up in the same place. In 2016, Yellowcard announced it would break up after putting out a final album, Yellowcard, and doing one last tour.

“We realized that this was the right time to step away and preserve the legacy and integrity of the band…,” the group wrote in a statement. “We wanted to push ourselves to create a lasting finale for this incredible story on our own. It is also why we chose to self-title the album… We’ve made one of the strongest records of our career and a fitting final creative piece.”

Spoiler alert: This end point didn’t take either.

When Yellowcard received an offer to perform at the Chicago punk rock festival Riot Fest in 2022, the guys felt it was too good to turn down.

“That phone call came in and changed our lives forever,” Key told Entertainment Weekly. “You don’t want to talk about money, right? But that’s what got us on the phone. Some of us in the band hadn’t spoken in six years at that point — no communication whatsoever.”

At Riot Fest, the band performed Ocean Avenue in full. Performances at the 2023 Slam Dunk Festival in the UK and the When We Were Young Festival in Las Vegas followed, as did a U.S. tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of Ocean Avenue.

“Yellowcard’s return was fueled by a reunion show to celebrate Ocean Avenue for Riot Fest, and that enthusiastic welcome fueled a full tour and an uncertain future for our band,” violinist Sean Mackin told Get Some magazine. “We never imagined we would have the opportunity to write new music or play any shows

of this magnitude, so this has been a very shocking and lovely surprise.”

Yellowcard’s brand new EP, Childhood Eyes is a blazing collection of five tunes. It simultaneously sounds like the old Yellowcard fans know and love, while showcasing a refreshed, revitalized version of the band.

“It’s so well-rounded as far as the different types of songs that you have heard from Yellowcard throughout the decades,” Key told Alternative Press. “There’s one of each on the EP.”

The Yellowcard resurgence brings the band to Northern Quest Resort and Casino on Saturday where the group will open for Third Eye Blind.

Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Key says he doesn’t quite know how to explain the renewed interest in the band, rattling off explanations he’s heard such as older fans introducing the band’s music to their children or the resurgence of pop punk in general. Explanation aside, the band seems eager to make the most of its next chapter.

“I’m excited to see what’s next, because I just have no idea,” Key said. “Every phone call we get is more shocking and exciting than the last one, so I think the next few years are going to be really incredible.” n

Third Eye Blind, Yellowcard, Arizona • Sat, June 8 at 6:30 pm • $40-$1,042 • All ages • Northern Quest Resort and Casino • 100 N. Hayford Rd., Airway Heights • northernquest.com

There’s nothing foul about Yellowcard. ACACIA EVANS PHOTO

THE Pierce Family

BECU Members

Banking built for Spokane.

BECU was built by (and for) people who live here, just like you. We’re memberowned and member-led, and all PNW residents—from Spokane to Portland to the Puget Sound—are welcome to apply.

becu.org/join

Membership

LOCAL ROCK QUARTER MONKEY

J = THE INLANDER RECOMMENDS THIS SHOW

J = ALL AGES SHOW

Thursday, 6/6

ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS, Echo Elysium

THE CHAMELEON, Seaside Tryst, Zara, Saxtoother CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Thursday Night Jam

CHECKERBOARD TAPROOM, Weathered Shepherds

J J KNITTING FACTORY, Taking Back Sunday, Citizen THE LODGE AT CARLIN BAY, Keanu

J QQ SUSHI & KITCHEN, Just Plain Darin

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Hip-Hop Night

J STELLA’S ON THE HILL, Theresa and the Bobs

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Evan Denlinger

ZOLA, Kaitlyn Wiens, Arthur Buezo

Friday, 6/7

AK ASIAN RESTAURANT, Frankie Ghee

BARRISTER WINERY, The Rising

J THE BIG DIPPER, The Pink Socks, The Emergency Exit, Eep-Oop!, Pastel Faces, Stubborn Will

J THE CHAMELEON, Quarter Monkey: Chronic Nuisance

Album Release Show with Tone Sober, B Radicals

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Barking Katz

CHINOOK STEAK, SEAFOOD & PASTA, Kyle Swaffard

THE GRAIN SHED - TAP HOUSE, Haywire

Who’s ready for a little Monkey business?

Since 2007, Spokane’s own Quarter Monkey has been a consistent presence on local stages with its alternative rock style that blends singer/guitarist Jereme Riccelli’s deep vocals with style-blurring swagger. That formula is still firing on Quarter Monkey’s brand new LP, Chronic Nuisance The album features garage rock swagger (“Poison the Well”), chilled out quick picking that borders on country/bluegrass territory (“Gold Heart”), washed out atmospheric tripping (“I Love to Drive”), ska-like bounce (“Guillotine”) and more hijinks (and if you weren’t clued into the band’s sense of irreverence after seeing the opening track is called “Fat Guy in a Speedo,” I simply cannot help you). To celebrate the arrival of Chronic Nuisance, Quarter Monkey heads to the Chameleon to showcase the new tunes live.

— SETH SOMMERFELD

Quarter Monkey: Chronic Nuisance Album Release Show with Tone Sober, B Radicals • Fri, June 7 at 8 pm • $12-$15 • 21+ • The Chameleon • 1801 W. Sunset Blvd. • chameleonspokane.com

SCREAM POP THELMA AND THE SLEAZE

IOLITE LOUNGE, Gil Rivas

J J BONES MUSICLAND, Alec Shaw, Scott Ryan Ingersoll

J KNITTING FACTORY, Krooked Kings, Snacks at Midnight, Vika

THE LODGE AT CARLIN BAY, Ron Greene

MOSES LAKE TAPROOM, Son of Brad NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE (CDA CASINO), Pastiche

NYNE BAR & BISTRO, Latin x Pride

PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Mike Wagoner

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs

THE RIDLER PIANO BAR, Just Plain Darin

SPOKANE EAGLES LODGE, Stagecoach West

J THE JACKLIN ARTS CENTER, Pamela Benton Band

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Mel Dalton

ZOLA, Jason Lucas ZOLA, The Rub

Saturday, 6/8

219 LOUNGE, Working Spliffs

J AVISTA STADIUM, Into the Drift Duo

J THE BIG DIPPER, The Accüsed A.D., Pay No Mind, Proleterror

J BLACK DIAMOND, The Ronaldos

J THE CHAMELEON, Jang The Goon: Goon Shii Mixtape Release Show with IAMTOPP, Young Neves

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Push

If you’re still looking for some more edgy transgressive vibes following Spokane Pride weekend, Thelma and the Sleaze might be right up your alley. The queer Nashville band fronted by ferocious hellcat Lauren “LG” Gilbert revels in the grime of bar band blues rock. On the group’s 2023 album Holey Water, the intentional rough edges and lack of polish allows TatS to interject little tastes of perhaps unexpected influences (The Shangri-Las, Brian Eno, Nine Inch Nails, etc.) with extreme subtlety. So grab your bestie by the hand, put the pedal to the metal, and careen into Thelma and the Sleaze’s Grand Canyon of queer Southern rock.

— SETH SOMMERFELD

Thelma and the Sleaze, Pit • Tue, June 11 at 9 pm • $12 • 21+ • The District Bar • 916 W. First Ave. • sp.knittingfactory.com

CHINOOK STEAK, SEAFOOD & PASTA, Kyle Swaffard

THE GRAIN SHED - TAP HOUSE, The Front Porch Rockers

J KNITTING FACTORY, Too Broke to Rock: Velvet Chains, Moon Fever, Nothing Shameful, Room 13

NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE (CDA CASINO), Pastiche

J J NORTHERN QUEST CASINO, Third Eye Blind, Yellowcard, Arizona

J ONE SHOT CHARLIE’S, Wild Wooly Band

PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Monarch Mountain Band

J PONDEROSA BAR AND GRILL, Carson Rhodes

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs

ROCKET MARKET, The Common Thread

J SIRINYA’S THAI RESTAURANT, Jason Lucas

SPOKANE TRIBE CASINO, Smash Mouth

J J ST. MARIES EAGLES LODGE, “I’m Still Standing” Benefit Show: PJ Destiny, Jimi Rockin’, Bill Fletcher, Deann Turcott, Mahalia Jade Loucks

ZOLA, Sugar Bear Birthday Party

ZOLA, The Night Mayors

Sunday, 6/9

ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS, Kevin Shay Band

J BING CROSBY THEATER, American Rock Legends: Bob Seger and John Fogerty Tributes

J CRAFT & GATHER, Dallas Kay HOGFISH, Open Mic

J ONE SHOT CHARLIE’S, Mel Dalton

J SOUTH HILL GRILL, Just Plain Darin

ZOLA, JoJo Knox

Monday, 6/10

THE CHAMELEON, Myke Bogan

EICHARDT’S PUB, Monday Night Blues Jam with John Firshi RED ROOM LOUNGE, Open Mic Night

J STELLA’S ON THE HILL, Howie King

Tuesday, 6/11

J J THE BIG DIPPER, The HIRS Collective, Psychic Death, Blacktracks, Spooky

J THE DISTRICT BAR, Thelma and the Sleaze, Pit

OSPREY RESTAURANT & BAR, Ron Greene

ROCKET MARKET, Quintetto Dolcetto SWING LOUNGE, Swing Lounge

Live Music Tuesdays

ZOLA, Jerry Lee and the Groove

Wednesday, 6/12

BARRISTER WINERY, Sammy Eubanks

J THE BIG DIPPER, Cryptopsy, Xingaia, Trashcasket, Bonemass

THE CHAMELEON, Boot Juice

THE DRAFT ZONE, The Draft Zone Open Mic

KENDALL YARDS, Gil Rivas, Tim Snodgrass, Katie Marabello, Buffalo Jones

OSPREY RESTAURANT & BAR, Son of Brad RED ROOM LOUNGE, Red Room Lounge Jam

SPOKANE VALLEY EAGLES, Stagecoach West

J TIMBERS ROADHOUSE, Cary Beare Presents

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Dallas Kay

J ZEEKS PIZZA, Mel Dalton ZOLA, SideStep, Hayley Lynn

Coming Up ...

J THE BIG DIPPER, The Bed Heads, Small Paul, Timeworm, June 15, 8 pm.

J GORGE AMPHITHEATER, Beyond Wonderland, June 22 & 23.

J J GORGE AMPHITHEATER, Noah Kahan, June 29.

J THE DISTRICT BAR, Margo Cilker, Junior the Band, July 12, 9 pm.

J THE DISTRICT BAR, Blitzen Trapper, Louisa Stancioff, July 13, 9 pm.

J J GORGE AMPHITHEATER, Blink-182, Pierce the Veil, July 14, 7 pm.

J J PAVILLION PARK, Primus, Coheed and Cambria, Guerilla Toss, July 20, 6 pm.

MUSIC | VENUES

219 LOUNGE • 219 N. First Ave., Sandpoint • 208-263-5673

ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS • 4705 N. Fruit Hill Rd., Spokane Valley • 509-927-9463

BABY BAR • 827 W. First Ave. • 509-847-1234

BARRISTER WINERY • 1213 W. Railroad Ave. • 509-465-3591

BEE’S KNEES WHISKY BAR • 1324 W. Lancaster Rd.., Hayden • 208-758-0558

BERSERK • 125 S. Stevens St. • 509-315-5101

THE BIG DIPPER • 171 S. Washington St. • 509-863-8098

BIGFOOT PUB • 9115 N. Division St. • 509-467-9638

BING CROSBY THEATER • 901 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-227-7638

BLACK DIAMOND • 9614 E. Sprague Ave. • 509891-8357

BOLO’S BAR & GRILL • 116 S. Best Rd., Spokane Valley • 509-891-8995

BOOMERS CLASSIC ROCK BAR • 18219 E. Appleway Ave., Spokane Valley • 509-368-9847

BUCER’S COFFEEHOUSE PUB • 201 S. Main St., Moscow • 208-596-0887

THE BULL HEAD • 10211 S. Electric St., Four Lakes • 509-838-9717

CHAN’S RED DRAGON • 1406 W. Third Ave. • 509-838-6688

THE CHAMELEON • 1801 W. Sunset Blvd.

CHECKERBOARD • 1716 E. Sprague Ave. • 509-443-4767

COEUR D’ALENE CASINO • 37914 S. Nukwalqw St., Worley • 800-523-2464

COEUR D’ALENE CELLARS • 3890 N. Schreiber Way, Coeur d’Alene • 208-664-2336

CRUISERS BAR & GRILL • 6105 W Seltice Way, Post Falls • 208-446-7154

CURLEY’S HAUSER JUNCTION • 26433 W. Hwy. 53, Post Falls • 208-773-5816

THE DISTRICT BAR • 916 W. 1st Ave. • 509-244-3279

EICHARDT’S PUB • 212 Cedar St., Sandpoint • 208-263-4005

FIRST INTERSTATE CENTER FOR THE ARTS • 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. • 509-279-7000

FOX THEATER • 1001 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-624-1200

IRON HORSE • 407 E. Sherman, Coeur d’Alene • 208-667-7314

IRON HORSE BAR & GRILL • 11105 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley • 509-926-8411

JOHN’S ALLEY • 114 E. Sixth St., Moscow • 208-883-7662

KNITTING FACTORY • 911 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-244-3279

MARYHILL WINERY • 1303 W. Summit Pkwy. • 509-443-3832

MILLIE’S • 28441 Hwy 57, Priest Lake • 208-443-0510

MOOSE LOUNGE • 401 E. Sherman Ave., Coeur d’Alene • 208-664-7901

NASHVILLE NORTH • 6361 W. Seltice Way, Post Falls • 208-457-9128

NORTHERN QUEST RESORT & CASINO • 100 N. Hayford Rd., Airway Heights • 877-871-6772

NYNE BAR & BISTRO • 232 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-474-1621

PEND D’OREILLE WINERY • 301 Cedar St., Sandpoint • 208-265-8545

POST FALLS BREWING CO. • 112 N. Spokane St., Post Falls • 208-773-7301

RAZZLE’S BAR & GRILL • 10325 N. Government Way, Hayden • 208-635-5874

RED ROOM LOUNGE • 521 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-838-7613

THE RIDLER PIANO BAR • 718 W. Riverside Ave. • 509-822-7938

SEASONS OF COEUR D’ALENE • 1004 S. Perry St. • 208-664-8008

SPOKANE ARENA • 720 W. Mallon Ave. • 509-279-7000

SPOKANE TRIBE CASINO • 14300 US-2, Airway Heights • 877-786-9467

SOUTH PERRY LANTERN • 12303 E. Trent Ave., Spokane Valley • 509-473-9098

STORMIN’ NORMAN’S SHIPFACED SALOON • 12303 E. Trent Ave., Spokane Valley • 509-862-4852

TRANCHE • 705 Berney Dr., Wall Walla • 509-526-3500

ZOLA • 22 W. Main Ave. • 509-624-2416

Unlock the treasures hidden within our storage units! More than 30 of our valued customers will be opening their storage unit doors to showcase a wide variety of items at unbeatable prices. Join us for a fun day of savings and surprises!

June 8 9am - 3pm

VISUAL ARTS MANITO MINGLIN’

It’s that time of year. The birds are chirping, the May gray is nearly gone, and there seems to be a local art market every single weekend. (I’m not complaining!) The Manito Art Festival organized by Kelly Brown, local parks enthusiast and executive director of the Friends of Manito, celebrates its fourth year as a Spokane art scene staple. This year, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Expo ’74, the festival hosts the Expo 50 Community Stage along with its usual fare: art from over 70 talented local artists, children’s activities, and a beer and wine garden. Head to Manito Park, peruse some art and celebrate the gorgeous nature surrounding our beautiful city all in one go this Saturday.

— MADISON PEARSON

Manito Park Art Festival • Sat, June 8 from 10 am-6 pm • Free • Manito Park, Duncan Garden’s east lawn • 1702 E. Grand Blvd. • thefriendsofmanito.org

COMMUNITY YE OLDE REN FAIRE

The Sandpoint Renaissance Faire approacheth and so too dost thine enjoyment. As with past years, there will be heaps of entertainment from groups like the equestrian Seattle Knights and Vertical Elements, a Spokane-based entertainment troupe specializing in breathtaking aerial acrobatics, stilt-walking and fire dancing. A handful of mystical beings like the Spokane Merfolk Pod and magician Miss Clare Voyánt will be there, too. For those with an ogre’s appetite, get your fill of turkey legs and ale on both days of the faire. Plus with tons of merchants, attendees can procure whatever their hearts desire. So fling caution to yonder winds and prepare thyself for abounding merriment.

— COLTON RASANEN

Sandpoint Renaissance Faire • Sat, June 8 and Sun, June 9 from 10 am-6 pm • $14-$32 • Bonner County Fairgrounds • 4203 N. Boyer Rd., Sandpoint • sandpointrenfaire.com

FILM SWIFT CINEMA

They say that restrictions breed creativity, and that’s why the annual 50 Hour Slam Film Festival is always so intriguing. Teams of local filmmakers are given a list of essential criteria — a theme, a prop, a location — and then are given 50 hours to write, develop, shoot and edit a three- to six-minute film that incorporates all those elements. Once completed, the top 15 shorts get played on the big screen at the Bing Crosby Theater for all to enjoy. The resulting works offer a glimpse into the diverse filmmaking imaginations that exist in our community: raw creativity, slapdash energy, dramatic thrills, comedic goofiness and more.

— SETH SOMMERFELD

50 Hour Slam Film Festival • Sat, June 8 at 6:30 pm • $15 • Bing Crosby Theater • 901 W. Sprague Ave. • 50hourslam.com

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.

VISUAL ARTS FRIDAY, FUNDAY

Well, here we are at the sixth First Friday of the year. We’re halfway through the 2024 art season, but things are going strong with an eclectic smattering of shows this month. Stop by Spokane Art School for a wonderful display of art made by faculty and students including Tom Quinn, Collista Krebs and Liz Bishop. If you’re up for a laugh, Entropy’s June artist, Z McMaster, has cooked up some quirky creature creations (pictured above) for your enjoyment. Paired with live music by Mama Llama, Wallower and Pontius Pilot, you’re gonna want to pop in for a gander. Meanwhile, at Saranac Art Projects, view a collection of art created by former Hive Artists-in-Residence. They’ve all spent months honing their craft, so it’s bound to impress. Make sure to stop into some local businesses when you’re out and about — art is everywhere! — MADISON PEARSON

First Friday • Fri, June 7 from 5-8 pm • Free • Locations vary • For more events and details, visit Inlander.com/events

COMMUNITY LET FREEDOM RING

Though it’s only been a federal holiday for three years, Juneteenth — also known as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, Jubilee Day or Black Independence Day — has been a mainstay in African American communities since June 19, 1865, when Union Army Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger announced in Galveston, Texas, that all slaves were free. To celebrate this year, join the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center for a weeknight Juneteenth kickoff event, followed by a weekend community celebration. The Thursday kickoff features speakers, food, entertainment, networking and an overview of all the Juneteenth events happening around Spokane. Then, the Saturday celebration hosts live music, games and giveaways. Help mark this joyous occasion while still dreaming and working toward ways to make our community stronger.

— ELIZA BILLINGHAM

Juneteenth Kickoff Event and Community Celebration • Thu, June 13 from 5:30-7 pm and Sat, June 15 from 11 am-3 pm • Free • Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center • 500 S. Stone St • facebook.com/mlkspokane

NativeAndStrong.org For support, call 988 or (800) 273-8255, or text NATIVE to 741741.

I SAW YOU

SAFETY ISSUES I see you there, parked down from the Meeting Place on the South Hill, a neighborhood whale of white vanness, snuggled up to the VERY end of the curb at an intersection. Trouble is Whale-y, your location is causing safety concerns. No human is able to see around you when attempting to cross the intersection while heading north. I’ve personally seen joggers on the sidewalk nearly smoked by cars because drivers can’t see around your white behind. Please tell your owner to move your whale-y ass down the block so safety can prevail for us all. You look like you need some love and your owner needs to practice thinking ahead. Love, the humans near you!

NOT FROM SPOKANE? I saw you expertly engaged your turn signal. You obviously are from out-of-town.

SPA ENCOUNTER I saw you getting a pedicure. While sitting down in the chair beside you, I accidentally knocked over your fruity red cocktail drink — so delicately perched on your nearby armrest. It soaked us both and we laughed. I should have offered to do your laundry. Will I ever see your toes again?

I SAW YOU

THIS ONE IS FOR YOU 2! RE: This one is for you. Samuel in the sun! Happy anniversary beebee!! Thank you, for loving me, protecting me, and filling the air in my

tires!! I promise to love you as passionately as I am capable of. I promise to always have your back, stick up for you and be your #1 fan! I can’t promise to have the amount of patience, like you have for me but I can promise to try. I can promise to always hold you accountable for your actions!!! Hahaha here is to 4 years of marriage and 7 years of being my bestest friend! I love you the mostest.

CHEERS

SAVED INDEED Re: Sanity Saved. Thank you, forever, is not enough. To know “we’re” not alone in these nightmares is the hope we need. Thanks for the truth, the support, the information. Now, there is courage to name the abusers, ya know, those who so feverishly Selfie-Shared every star-studded moment of “our” union (to their ego-affirmation) for the world to see. You have not shamed us into shrinking into the shadows with your pathetic ragings, manipulations, gas-lightings, etc. We have spoken, and will always. Your N.P.D. is not something taken lightly, by us, by your employers, your families. You have greatly harmed many, including your children, and you do NOT care! We know this, and we are no longer silent. “It’s Not You” saved MY sanity also. Brilliantly enlightening. The light that shines on those creatures believing they hide in darkness. Reach out to the local domestic violence groups in this city. There are many. Help is available.

BENCH REPAIR Cheers to the couple we saw fixing a dilapidated bench on Memorial Day weekend. It had been nearly unusable/ unsittable for quite some time, and your personal time and materials gave us back a great vantage point over the river. Upon further inspection, it looked like a tribute to your loved ones. Thanks for memorializing your kin and translating it into a gift that the whole community can enjoy on those trails so that they may take a quick rest in the sunshine or sunset, or think about their cherished ones. Cheers to the gentle, broad strokes of humanity and simple gestures.

NOT ALONE We are not alone in the universe. Jesus was the morning star, which is Venus, while the Nephilim inhabit the moon, which is hollow. Since we only see one side of the moon, are we being watched? No, we are being monitored in the same way we monitor other countries, only much more sophisticated.

DIFFERENCE IN DOCUMENTS The Constitution is a technical document, like a user’s manual for self-governance, while the Declaration of Independence is a philosophical document for human rights. Ancient Greek philosophy influenced much of Western culture with the belief that selfdiscipline is a basic requirement to self-rule and from that comes individual freedom

(political and economic). To extend individual freedom to self-governance requires sovereignty. Sovereignty is hierarchy or a “chain of command,” and it has power over any territory or state. Since anarchism is a stateless society, then social transformation takes place during cultural assimilation.

CDA COUPLE IN BLACK TRUCK Scott and Karen... approximately 5:45pm on 5/29 my ‘97 Black Honda Accord caught on fire right as I turned onto the on ramp to go home after a 10 hr shift. I couldn’t get my hood to pop open, I was calling 911, I was trying to flag down ANYONE who was willing to stop, so I could ask for help and possibly a fire extinguisher. After, what felt like hundreds of cars that passed me, you two stopped. You two stayed for a stranger who was in a complete panic as I watched my car go up in flames. I appreciate and thank you both from the bottom of my heart. I will forever remember both of you, and you will always have a special place in my heart.

JEERS

OLD BAG Hey Mr. Retailer, You’re not “mad” at the customers who don’t want to pay the discriminatory 8 cent bag fee you charge. You’re probably highly annoyed that you’re beginning to realize that they and you are already paying “the way” for those who aren’t required to pay said fee. See, once ya take Guv-Mint funds, your hands are tied in that place. “Oh the land of the once free, and brave.” There’s no one monitoring the fee. The retailer keeps the fee. Once again, fear-mongering, and non-questioned fees

and taxes have divided us. It’s working... and you’re highly agitated realizing it. We can use an Old Bag. We just believed it to be more sanitary as a gift to have a new one. Yes, we can afford the 8 cents, the 8 cents, and the 8 cents. It’s not we that have bothered you. It’s the heat. -The Frog in the pot

RE: HAVE SOME GRACE To a fellow “angry mofo,” NEWSFLASH you’re literally in the Jeers section writing about others who make Jeers! Please be more self aware and take your “be kind to yourself and everyone else” mentality to the Cheers section... where people go to, as you put it, “breathe and enjoy something.” I too have lived a great life — most of us in these sections probably have. I was born and raised in Spokane. I have been reading the Inlander for 30ish years and mostly for the Jeers section! Don’t come rain on our parade in the Jeers section with your toxic positivity. If you haven’t noticed: the world (especially the U.S.) is facing extreme pressure and stress as we are being brainwashed left and right, especially as we head into this election. WE ARE ALLOWED TO BE BITTER, ANGRY, AND FRUSTRATED with others, with the government, with healthcare/food industries, and with ourselves. YES — we need positivity to survive these wild times but that is not what the Jeers section is for.

RE: RE: DEADBEAT CITY To the person who states, “If it’s a choice between rent & food or paying for (license) tabs, I know what my answer is,” try using that line to the officer who (hopefully soon) pulls your car over. It’s a lot less expensive paying for legal license tabs than the ticket. If your tabs are less than two months overdue, the fine is $136. If it’s more than two months, the ticket is $228. With so many cars driving around with tabs that expired in 2021, relicensing fees for the last several years in addition to the ticket will add up. Go get ‘em law enforcement! If you can’t afford license tabs, you can’t afford to drive, dummy! Start walking instead.

EARLY MORNING 7:23 AM stranger danger rang the Ring doorbell three times within three minutes. Wrong address! You are an old unintelligent fool for being so rude on a weekend morning expecting what, an early morning delight? You been had!

RE: DEADBEAT CITY Where does Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs place car tabs in relation to beer, cigarettes, or your latest tattoo? License isn’t really that expensive, make a sacrifice and be responsible. And get your damn studs off, too.

THEY’RE OUT OF CONTROL Jeers to the boomer brigade who strut into our bar like they own the place, ready to dish out their special blend of hateful, anti-trans, and anti-LGBTQ commentary. Oh, pardon me, I didn’t realize I signed up for a free ticket to the bigoted stand-up comedy show. Seriously, who gave you the memo that your outdated opinions are the star attraction of the night? Last I checked, bars were for enjoying a drink, not for subjecting innocent bystanders to your toxic word vomit. And let’s not forget, folks, this isn’t your living room where you can spew hate like a busted water pipe; it’s a public space where everyone deserves respect. So, to the boomer brigade: take your hate speech, roll it up into a soggy cocktail napkin, and toss it in the trash where it belongs. Oh, and while you’re at it, take a lesson in basic human decency. n

BENEFIT

15TH ANNUAL BACKPACKS FOR KIDS

The Salvation Army Spokane, in collaboration with Nomnom convenience stores, has a goal of distributing 4,000 new backpacks with school supplies to local children, grades K-12. Nomnom is collecting donations through June. See website for details. Free. The Salvation Army Spokane, 222 E. Indiana Ave. makingspokanebetter.org (509-325-6810)

STACHE DASH A race benefitting Elevations, a Spokane nonprofit providing funding for kids with special needs to receive the therapy services they need to thrive. Participants run while wearing a (provided) mustache. June 8, 8 am-noon. $15-$85. Farwell Elementary School, 2323 E. Farwell Rd. stachedash.org

FREEDOM FAIR A fundraiser for The Jonah Project featuring raffle baskets, a dessert auction, self-defense demos and more. June 15, 3-6 pm. $10-$25. Life Center Church, 1202 N. Government Way. jonahproject.org (425-315-6373)

DAD’S DAY DASH Run or walk this annual Father’s Day 5k in Riverfront Park to support Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (SNAP). June 16, 9-11 am. $19$40. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. snapwa.org/ddd5k (509-625-6600)

COMEDY

ANDREW SCHULZ Schulz is a comedian, actor and podcaster known for his work on MTV2’s Guy Code and the Flagrant podcast. June 6, 7 pm. $45-$95. First Interstate Center for the Arts, 334 W. Spokane Falls. firstinterstatecenter.org

DAVE FULTON Fulton, originally from Idaho, is known for his acting career and various film appearances. June 6, 7 pm. $15-$20. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com

FUNNY FUNNY FUNNY JOKE JOKE JOKE A unique comedy experience that takes advantage of the Garland Theater’s projector system, combining stand-up comedy, live sketches and other bits. June’s line up features Chad Optiz, Greg Beachler and host Josiah Carlson. June 6, 7:30-9 pm. $15. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.com

A FULLY-IMPROVISED MUSICAL Improvised stories, characters, songs and choreography all inspired by audience suggestions. June 7-28, Fri at 7 pm. $15. Harding Family Center, 411 N. 15th St. levitytheatre.com (208-494-2008)

HOOPPROV Improvisers weave together basketball-inspired humor and imaginative characters as they prepare for Hoopfest. Fridays at 7:30 pm through July 5. $9. Blue Door Theatre, 319 S. Cedar St. bluedoortheatre.org (509-747-7045)

NICK MULLEN Mullen is a standup comedian best known as the creator and cohost of his podcast and for his comedy special, The Year of the Dragon. June 7-8, 7 & 9:45 pm. $30-$40. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com (509-318-9998)

SAFARI The Blue Door Theatre’s version of Whose Line with short, improvised skits from audience suggestions. Every Saturday at 7:30 pm. $9. Blue Door Theatre, 319 S. Cedar. bluedoortheatre.com

KAM PATTERSON Patterson is a standup comedian and new regular on Kill Tony. June 9, 8:45 pm. $25-$30. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com (509-318-9998)

OPEN MIC MONDAY Hosted by local comedian Anthony Singleton, this open mic welcomes artists and entertainers of all genres. All ages. Every second and fourth Monday from 7-9 pm. Free. Lyyv Entertainment, 8712 E. Sprague Ave. lyyv. tv (509-557-3999)

NEW TALENT TUESDAYS Watch comedians of all skill levels work out jokes together. Tuesdays at 7 pm (doors at 6 pm). Free. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com

OPEN MIC STAND-UP Wednesdays at 7:30 pm. See website for sign-up details. Free. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com

PETER ANTONIOU Antoniou is a ‘psychic’ comedian best known for his time on America’s Got Talent. June 13, 7 pm. $20-$25. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com

QUEERPROV A celebration of LGBTQ+ identity as improvisers, all proud members of the community, come together to deliver short-form improv. June 15, 9:30 pm. Blue Door Theatre, 319 S. Cedar St. bluedoortheatre.org (509-747-7045)

COMMUNITY

THE ARTISTS MEETUP A meetup with Spokane artists and Spokane Arts’ new executive director, Skyler Oberst. June 6, 5:30-7:30 pm. Free. Ben Joyce Studios, 806 W. Third Ave. spokanearts.org

AVISTA WATER POWER WALKING

TOUR A self-guided walking tour using your smartphone. Using a series of QR codes and interpretive signs, learn about the integrated water power system in Spokane. Daily through July 4. Free. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. expo50spokane.com

COMMUNITY CONVERSATION ON THE CLIMATE CRISIS A conversation focused around the 50th anniversary of Expo ’74 and how individuals can take action to prepare for the impact of the climate crisis. June 6, 4-5:30 pm. Free. Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne Rd. scld.org

EXPO ’74 HISTORIC TIMELINE An openair exhibit detailing the pivotal moments of Expo ‘74 and its legacy in environmental consciousness. Daily through July 4. Free. Pavilion at Riverfront, 574 N. Howard St. visitspokane.com

IT HAPPENED HERE: EXPO ’74 FIFTY YEARS LATER This 50th anniversary exhibition revisits the historical roots of Expo ’74’s legacy. Tue-Sun from 10 am-5 pm through Jan. 26. $7-$12. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org

LET’S TALK ABOUT PRIDE Discuss the state of 2SLGBTQIA+ rights in Washington with Roo Ramos, Kate Bitz, Jeff DeBray and Adrien Leavitt. June 6, 5:30-7:30 pm. $8. The Boxcar Room, 116 W. Pacific Ave. aclu-wa.org (206-624-2184)

MINECRAFT CLUB Drop in and explore architecture, engineering and art through Minecraft. Participants are given a building prompt related to one or more of these fields. Grades 3-8. Every Thursday from 4-6 pm. Free. Spark Central, 1214 W. Summit Pkwy. spark-central.org

SPOKANE PRIDE & REMEMBRANCE:

A HISTORY EXHIBIT An exhibit aimed at preserving, celebrating and honoring the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities throughout the region. Tue-Thu from 11 am-4 pm, Fri-Sat from 11 am-8 pm through June 8. Free. Pavilion at Riverfront, 574 N. Howard St. spokanepride.org (509-625-6000)

FRIDAY NIGHT FEVER An evening of dance featuring performances by drag queens Derrick Barry and Ada Vox. June 7, 7-10 pm. $30. Davenport Grand Hotel, 333 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. spokanepride.org

WHEATLAND BANK FREE HORSE & CARRIAGE RIDES Experience the sights of Riverfront Park and downtown Spokane from a horse-drawn carriage. Pick up is across from the Numerica Skate Ribbon entrance. Fridays from 4-8 pm through June 21. Free. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard. downtownspokane.org

YMCA HEALTHY KIDS DAY This event aims to inspire kids and families to keep their minds and bodies active throughout the summer months and beyond with activities, booths, games, prizes and more. June 7, 5:30-7:30 pm. Free. YMCA Spokane Valley, 2421 N. Discovery Pl. ymcainw.org (509-777-9622)

ANNUAL DIAMOND SELF STORAGE

GARAGE SALE A sale featuring 30+ vendors, household items, electronics, clothing, furniture and more. June 8, 8 am-3 pm. Free. Diamond Self Storage, 5602 W. Sunset Hwy. diamondparking.com

BIZFEST: A CHILDREN’S BUSINESS

FAIR A one-day event featuring various booths of businesses children have created. Children ages 6-14 are welcome to participate. June 8, 10 am-noon. Free. The Hive, 2904 E. Sprague Ave. childrensbusinessfair.org/spokane-wa

BUILDING A MEMORY GARDEN Bob Scarfo, a landscape architect, and Debby Dodds, a local gerontologist specializing in dementia, discuss how they plan to bring a public memory garden to Spokane. June 8, 11 am-noon. Free. Indian Trail Library, 4909 W. Barnes Rd. spokanelibrary.org (509-444-5300)

PRIDE REUNION SHOW A drag performance featuring Crystal Marché, Miss Mylar Black, Nova Kaine, Le Gurlz and more on the beer garden stage. June 8, 6:30-8:30 pm. Free. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. spokanepride.org

SANDPOINT RENAISSANCE FAIRE A traditional renaissance fair featuring live music, merchants, turkey legs and more activities. June 8-9, 10 am-6 pm. $14$32. Bonner County Fairgrounds, 4203 N. Boyer Rd. sandpointrenfaire.com

SPOKANE PRIDE FESTIVAL An annual celebration of equality and inclusion featuring a parade, dance parties, vendors, food and music. June 8, 12-7 pm. Free. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. spokanepride.org (509-625-6600)

FAMILY PRIDE CELEBRATION This event includes a storytime led by library staff, bracelet making, rock painting and more. June 9, 1-3 pm. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main Ave. spokanelibrary.org

BEGINNING BUDDHISM Buddhist nuns from Sravasti Abbey offer weekly teachings based on the book Open Heart, Clear Mind by Buddhist teacher and author Venerable Thubten Chodron. Wednesdays from 6-7:30 pm. By offering. Souls Center, 707 N. Cedar. sravastiabbey.org

COFFEE & CONVERSATION This event aims to help people feel seen and heard. Includes low-key activities like coloring, puzzles and more.Wednesdays from 10:30 am-noon. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main Ave. spokanelibrary.org

MANY SPIRITS COMMUNITY A space for two-spirit and Indigiqueer people to spend time together. Tea, hot chocolate and some art supplies provided. Wednesdays from 4-7 pm. Free. Shadle Library, 2111 W. Wellesley Ave. spectrumcenterspokane.org (509-444-5390)

by the Spokane Symphony Associates (to benefit the Spokane Symphony) New Location: 9120 N. Division, Spokane WA (The old RiteAid Building)

50% off all items 25% off all Rugs Thursday-Saturday, June 6th-8th, 9am-6pm

Fine Art: original oil paintings, prints and a Curtis Jere metal autumn leaf wall hanging now $200. Furniture: oak twin beds, modernist glass coffee table, bookcases, roll top desk, mid century modern bedroom set now $600, china hutches, glass top dining table, bar stools, side tables, coffee tables and lamp tables. Vintage Furniture: drop-leaf tables, wicker furniture, sofa, press back chairs, cedar chest, and iron daybed. Oriental Rugs: 50 wool rugs from Mamluk, Farabough, Afghanistan, Turkish, Kelium, Tunisian, Berber, Bakhroug, Moroccan, Taznakht, & Indian (and more). Household and Collectibles: Asian items, household décor, new small kitchen appliances, and numerous baskets. China Dinnerware: Fritz & Floyd, Noritake, Limoges, Fenton, Moto ware. Wedgewood, Lenox patterns. Assorted China: Royal Doulton & Hümmel & Royal Doulton mugs, beautiful vases, candlesticks. Glass: including cut crystal goblets and decanters, as well as pressed pieces. Crystal Patterns: Black Platinum by Lenox, Waterford and barware. Silver-plated serving pieces. Collection of 15 dolls. 3 Cases full of costume jewelry. Electronics: Onkyo, Denon, and Sony, several TV’s. Quality Clothing: vintage party dresses, fur coats, and jeans. Antique linens, quilts, decorator pillows. Sewing notions, with hundreds of fabrics bundled for quilt making, buttons, trims, doll patterns & laces. Wood collectibles. Rare Edison Blue Amber Recorder with rolls. HO scale plastic model train buildings & locomotives, blown glass figurines. Kids toys and games, craft supplies. Lamps, bikes, luggage, and garden items. Hundreds of Papyrus Cards, $1.00 each. All items are priced to sell.

EVENTS | CALENDAR

MOONSHINE ARTISAN NIGHT MARKET

& MOONLIT MOVIES A market featuring local makers, food vendors and more, followed by an outdoor movie at dusk. Wednesdays from 5:30-11 pm through Aug. 28. Free. Commellini Estate, 14715 N. Dartford Dr. commellini.com/moonshine

COME BE HEARD OPEN MIC NIGHT An all-ages open mic night for people looking for a place to perform and experience the joys of musical and poetic community. June 12, 5-7 pm. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main Ave. spokanelibrary.org

SUMMER READING KICK-OFF PARTY

Kick off this year’s Summer Reading program with book-themed crafts, activities and fun. June 12, 3:30-5:30 pm. Free. Liberty Park Library, 402 S. Pittsburgh St. spokanelibrary.org

JUNETEENTH KICKOFF EVENT Kick off Juneteenth celebrations with speakers, food entertainment, networking and more. June 13, 5:30-7 pm. Free. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, 500 S. Stone St. facebook.com/MLKSpokane

TRIBAL FASHION SHOW & MUSIC FES-

TIVAL This show and festival features Indigenous designers, models and music. June 13, 5 pm. Free. Pavilion at Riverfront, 574 N. Howard St. expo50spokane.com

ALL WHEELS WEEKEND A community celebration featuring a car show, demo derby, live music, poker walk and more. June 14-16, times vary. Free. Dayton, Washington. allwheelsweekend.com

CAR D’LANE A classic car show and cruise, with a poker walk, people’s choice voting and family-friendly activities. June 14-15; Fri from 6-9 pm, Sat from 8 am-4 pm. Free. Downtown Coeur d’Alene,

Sherman Ave. cdadowntown.com

MEDICAL LAKE FOUNDER’S DAY A triathlon, car show, farmers market, golf scramble, food trucks, live music and more. June 14-15; Fri from 8 am-10:15 pm, Sat from 10 am-4 pm. Free. Medical Lake. medicallake.org

STATE OF DOWNTOWN Business, community leaders and elected officials celebrate Spokane’s downtown area. Includes keynote speaker Carol Ross Barney and a “state of downtown” presentation. June 14, 8-10:30 am. $65. Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. downtownspokane.org (279-7000)

PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY Celebrate Philippine Independence Day with live music, cultural performances, street food talls and more. June 15, 1-7 pm. Free. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. fb.me/ e/1SGAxQ2XA (509-590-6613)

33 ARTISTS MARKET A small, curated, once-monthly market featuring local artists, art demos and live music. June 15, 11 am-5 pm. Free. The Wonder Building, 835 N. Post St. 33artistsmarket.com

BRICK FEST LIVE A building brick convention with hands-on building opportunities, life-size models, Lego vendors and more. June 15, 9 am and June 16, 9 am. $17-$35. Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls. brickfestlive.com

CDA4PRIDE TIE-DYE PARTY Make tie-dye shirts with fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies in a relaxed and friendly environment. June 15, 10 am-1 pm. $18. Human Rights Education Institute, 414 W. Fort Grounds Dr. nipridealliance.com (208-292-2359)

DRIVING THE AMERICAN DREAM: 1970S CARS Learn about the changes in the world that heralded a new era of auto making in the United States through automobiles of the 1970s. June 15-Sept. 14; Tue-Sun from 10 am-5 pm. $8-$12. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org

JUNETEENTH COMMUNITY CELEBRA-

TION Celebrate Juneteenth with live music, food, giveaways and more. June 15, 11 am-3 pm. Free. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, 500 S. Stone St. facebook.com/mlkspokane (509-868-0856)

FILM

EXPO ’74: FILMS FROM THE VAULT A selection of recently digitized film footage from the 1974 World’s Fair. Tue-Sun from 10 am-5 pm through Sep. 8. $7-$12. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org

ROSEMARY’S BABY A young motherto-be grows increasingly suspicious that her overly friendly elderly neighbors and husband are hatching a satanic plot against her. June 6, 7-9 pm. $8. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org

AN AMERICAN IN PARIS Three friends struggle to find work in Paris. Things become more complicated when two of them fall in love with the same woman. June 7, 2-4 pm. $6. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org

50-HOUR SLAM FILM FESTIVAL SCREENING & AWARDS A showcase of the short films created during the timed film competition and an award ceremony. June 8, 6:30-10 pm. $15-$18. Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague Ave. bingcrosbytheater.com (509-227-7638)

FARMERS MARKET CARTOONS A selection of kid-friendly animated shorts. Drop in anytime during the Moscow Farmers Market. Sat from 8 am-noon through Aug. 31. Free. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org (208-882-4127)

THE EMPIRE STRIKES PALESTINE: A FILM FESTIVAL A film festival showcasing the realities of the Israeli occupation in Palestine through a selection of documentaries. Sundays from 4-6 pm through June 16, 4-6 pm. Free. Magic Lantern Theatre, 25 W. Main Ave. facebook.com/ share/ms7DVHD16pvYfF5c

THE MONSTROUS MIRROR: MAKING MOVIES TO REFLECT WHO YOU ARE A workshop about representation in film presented by Ariel Baska director, producer and writer of the documentary Monstrous Me. June 9, 12:15-1:45 pm. Free. South Hill Library, 3324 S. Perry St. spokanelibrary.org

AMERICAN GRAFFITI On the last day of summer vacation in 1962, friends Curt, Steve, Terry and John cruise the streets of small-town California. June 15, 7:30 pm. $5. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.org (509-327-1050)

FULL DRAW FILM TOUR A showcase of bowhunting films with chances for door prizes. June 7, 7-9 pm. $12-$24. Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague Ave. bingcrosbytheater.com (509-227-7638)

THE GOONIES A band of adventurous kids take on a development company that plans to destroy their home. June 1516, 2 pm. Free. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland. garlandtheater.org

ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW A newly-engaged couple have a breakdown in an isolated area and seek shelter at the residence of Dr. Frank-n-Furter. June 15, 11:45 pm. $10. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.org

SELKIRK CONSERVATION ALLIANCE THIRD ANNUAL FILM FESTIVAL A compilation of regional wild nature films focused on educating and inspiring the local community about the environment. June 15, 3-5 pm. Free. The Inn at Priest Lake, 5310 Dickensheet Rd. scawild.org

FOOD & DRINK

FRENCH WINE TASTING WITH SMALL BITES Sample six collectible French wines paired with small bites, including ELEVAE, a rare French Rosé. June 7, 4-5 & 6-7 pm. $55. The Kitchen Engine, 621 W. Mallon Ave. thekitchenengine.com

CULINARY TOUR OF THE PALOUSE: RAVIOLLI AL UOVO Learn how to make ravioli with brown butter sauce with chef Mat Morgan, WSU’s executive chef of hospitality and business management. June 8, 1-4 pm. $55. Dahmen Barn, 419 N. Park Way. artisanbarn.org

CAMP COCKTAIL: COCKTAIL TIME AT THE WORLD’S FAIRS Step back in time to the early World’s Fairs, an era when the American cocktail took center stage. This hands-on class includes three drinks, history and mixology lessons, appetizers and a take-home cocktail booklet. Ages 21+. June 9, 5-7 pm. $75. Hogwash Whiskey Den, 304 W. Pacific Ave. raisingthebarnw.com

SUNDAY BRUNCH CRUISES Enjoy a brunch buffet with a full-service, nohost bar while on a cruise around Lake Coeur d’Alene. Sundays at 11 am through Sep. 1. $60-$73. The Coeur d’Alene Resort, 115 S. Second. cdacruises.com

COPPER RIVER SALMON FEAST A multicourse, family-style menu that celebrates the flavors of Copper River salmon with dishes like smoked salmon bruschetta, salmon ravioli and more. June 10, 6 pm. $120. Tavolata, 221 N. Wall St. ethanstowellrestaurants.com

RIVERFRONT EATS A food festival featuring local food vendors and live music. Tuesdays from 11 am-2 pm (except July 2 and Aug. 27). Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. riverfrontspokane.org

THE WANDERING TABLE A nomadic restaurant the travels around the Pacific Northwest featuring a 12-course dinner with local, seasonal products and producers paired with wine and cocktails. June 13, 6 pm. $125. Honey Eatery and Social Club, 317 Sherman Ave. facebook. com/TheWanderingTable

LEGENDS CIGAR & SPIRITS FESTIVAL

A festival featuring exclusive shopping experiences, new releases, top-shelf spirits and live music. June 15, 7-10 pm. $95. Northern Quest Resort & Casino, 100 N. Hayford Rd. northernquest.com

LETS TACO ‘BOUT WINE Taste five wines, each paired with a gourmet taco. Catered by 509 Dine. June 15, 11:30 am2:30 pm. $60. Stonelodge Farm, 6509 Stonelodge Rd. seattlewinegirl.net

NOVA KAINE’S DON’T TELL MAMA

CABARET & DRAG BRUNCH Various Inland Northwest drag performers take

the stage and perform pieces choreographed by Troy Nickerson. First and third Sundays at 11 am. Free. Highball, 100 N. Hayford Rd. northernquest.com

MUSIC

MOSCOW COMMUNITY BAND SUMMER CONCERT SERIES The band, featuring musicians from around the Palouse, presents three free concerts of traditional and contemporary music. Thursday thorugh June 17 from 7-8 pm. Free. East City Park, 900 E. Third St. (208-669-4080)

STREET MUSIC WEEK Watch local musicians play at Main and Post, in the Garland District outside the Gathering House, and in Coeur d’Alene outside of Art Spirit Gallery. Proceeds benefit Second Harvest. June 10-14, 12-1 pm. Free. facebook.com/StreetMusicWeek

PETER LUCHT Lucht plays jazz selections on piano. June 12, 5-7 pm. Pend d’Oreille Winery, 301 Cedar. powine.com

SEAN BOSTRUM The local pianist and teacher Sean Bostrom presents a diverse program of classical music, mixed with jazz and comedic flavor influenced by Viktor Borge. June 14, 6-8 pm. $12$15. Create Arts Center, 900 Fourth St. , Newport. createarts.org

LULLABY CONCERT Pregnant people and new parents were paired with professional artists from the Spokane Symphony to craft personalized lullabies for their little ones. This concert is the culmination of the project. June 15, 11 am. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main Ave. spokanelibrary.org

DRUNK ON THE MOON A Tom Waits cabaret and burlesque show with musicians Madeline McNeill, Olivia Brownlee, and burlesque dancer Miss Nickie B. Mexican food catered by Michael Wiley. June 15, 6:30-8:30 pm. $75. Prohibition Gastropub, 1914 N. Monroe St. eventcreate.com/e/drunkonthemoon

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

GREATER SPOKANE PARKS CHALLENGE Visit 20 of Spokane’s parks, marking them off on the OuterSpatial mobile app as you go, to complete the challenge. Winners receive a sticker and are entered to win a $500 Target gift card. Through Sep. 3. outerspatial.com

MILD RIDERS

THURSDAY NIGHT RIDES

Bring your scooter and ride with others. Every Thursday at 6 pm through the fall. Free. Lunarium, 1925 N. Monroe St. instagram.com/mild.riders.spokane

SAM MANICOM PRESENTATION Sam shares stories from his eight-year journey around the world on motorcycle. June 6, 6-8 pm. Free. Westside Motorsports, 4201 S. Grove Road. westsideracing.com (509-747-1862)

SPOKANE INDIAN VS. HILLSBORO

HOPS Promotions during this six-game series include Pride Night (June 5), Hawaiian Night (June 6), Ballpark Bugs and Stadium Snakes Day Game (June 9) and more. June 6-7, 6:35 pm, June 8, 5:09 pm and June 9, 1:05 pm. Avista Stadium, 602 N. Havana St. milb.com/ spokane

EVENTS | CALENDAR

SUMMER PRUNING Learn about pruning and trimming perennials and shrubs during the summer. June 8, 2-3 pm. $10. Ritters Garden & Gift, 10120 N. Division. 4ritter.com

STATE PARK FREE DAYS No Discover Pass is required to enter state parks on June 8, 9 and 19 (more dates to come). riversidestateparkfoundation.org

TOUR DE FARMS A self-guided bike tour of locally-owned farms across Spokane County. June 8, 8 am-4 pm. Free. spokanefarmcorridors.com

ALL ABOUT PERENNIALS Learn about different types of perennials, how to care for them and how to pair them for the biggest impact. June 9, 2-3 pm. $10. Ritters Garden & Gift, 10120 N. Division St. 4ritter.com (509 467-5258)

BEST HIKES IN THE SPOKANE AREA

Holly from the Washington Trails Association shares details and photos of fun, beautiful local trails and appropriate gear. June 10, 6 pm. Free. Shadle Library, 2111 W. Wellesley Ave. spokanelibrary.org

YOGA FOR YOU A program for adults focused on stretching, strengthening and balance work. Mondays at 9:30 am through Sep. 30. Free. Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. cdalibrary.org (208-769-2315)

YOGA WITH BRENDA ST. JOHN A gentle approach to yoga that adapts postures to meet individual needs. Mondays from 10:30 am-noon and 1-2:30 pm through June 10. $41. Aaron Huff Memorial Cultural Center, 214 E. Main, Chewelah. campusce.net/spokaneactii

BRICK WEST RUN CLUB Runs start and end at Brick West and changes routes every week. Tuesdays at 6 pm. Free. Brick West Brewing Co., 1318 W. First Ave. bit. ly/brick-run (509-279-2982)

TAI CHI & QI GONG Improve strength, balance, coordination, focus, breathwork and relaxation. Tuesdays at 10 am. Free. Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. cdalibrary.org (208-769-2315)

PRACTICAL CENTERING YOGA Experience the benefits of yoga and pilates movements through these weekly exercise sessions. Wednesdays from 1:302:30 pm. $18-$20. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org (509-456-3931)

QIGONG Practice a traditional Chinese exercise used as holistic medicine. Wed from noon-1 pm and 1-2 pm through June 12. $19. Spokane Community College, 1810 N. Greene St. campusce.net/spokaneactii (509-533-8500)

KING OF THE CAGE A mixed-martial arts competition. June 13, 7 pm. $60-$75. Northern Quest Resort & Casino, 100 N. Hayford Rd. northernquest.com

DISC DOG FUN MATCH A dog frisbee competition with vendors, live music and awards. June 14, 6:30-8:30 pm. Free. Waterfront Park, 1386 S. Lefevre St., Medical Lake. medicallake.org

SPOKATOPIA An outdoor adventure festival featuring bike demos, clinics, live music, brews and family outdoor activities. June 14-15; Fri from 5-9 pm, Sat from 9 am-3 pm. $5-$85. Camp Sekani, 67070 E. Upriver Dr. spokatopia.com

THEATER & DANCE

CATS The Jellicle Cats come out to play on one special night of the year— the night of the Jellicle Ball. One by one they

tell their stories to Old Deuteronomy, their leader, who must choose one of the Cats to ascend to The Heaviside Layer. Wed-Sat at 7:30 pm, Sun at 2 pm (Sat, June 15 at 2 pm) through June 16. $20$40. Spokane Civic Theatre, 1020 N. Howard St. spokanecivictheatre.com

SPOKANE FOLKLORE SOCIETY SWING

DANCE The Max Quartet provides swing music while Cathy Dark calls easy-tolearn swing steps. June 8, 7-10 pm. $7$10. East Spokane Grange, 1621 N. Park Rd. spokanefolklore.org (509-838-2160)

PLAYWRIGHTS’ FORUM FESTIVAL A showcase of new one-act plays written by regional playwrights. Plays are show in two rotations, see website for schedule. June 13-16; Thu-Fri at 7:30, Sat-Sun at 2 pm, Sun also at 6 pm. $10-$15. Spokane Civic Theatre, 1020 N. Howard St. spokanecivictheatre.com

ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID Four friends have sworn to keep the promise they made on the night of their senior prom: to be in each other’s weddings. Thirty years later, they’re determined to make the promise come true. June 14, 2:30 & 7:30 pm. $15. Roxy Theater, 120 S. Washington. outoftheboxentertainment.org

THE (SAME) INCIDENT Chelsea DuVall’s experimental new play explores the cultural cycles of violence, media, blame and humanity in the face of mass shootings in the U.S. June 14-30; Thu-Sat at 7 pm, Sun at 2 pm. $25-$30. Stage Left Theater, 108 W. Third Ave. stagelefttheater.org

WORLD BALLET FESTIVAL: BALLET BLOCKBUSTERS Ballet stars from New York City Ballet, San Francisco Ballet as well as local companies perform on stage together. Special guests include Tiler Peck and Roman Mejia. June 15, 7 pm. $47-$91. First Interstate Center for the Arts, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. firstinterstatecenter.org (509-279-7000)

VISUAL

ARTS

20 YEARS OF ARTWALK An exhibition celebrating the 20th anniversary of Moscow’s ArtWalk featuring posters and original artwork from the event’s first 20 years. Mon-Fri from 8 am-5 pm through July 5. Free. Third Street Gallery, City Hall, 206 E. Third St. ci.moscow.id.us

BETWEEN BORDERS: FOLKLIFE THROUGH THE COEUR D’ALENES An exhibition featuring folk and traditional artists from the region. Wed-Sun from 11 am-6 pm through June 30. Free. The Art Spirit Gallery, 415 Sherman Ave. theartspiritgallery.com (208-765-6006)

CONVERGENCE Sculptures, wood work, paintings and mixed-media installations from artists Jill Kyong, Christian Benoit, Jon Morse, Andrew Parker and Claire Akebrand. June 1-30, Wed-Sun from 11 am-6 pm through June 30. Free. The Art Spirit Gallery, 415 Sherman Ave. theartspiritgallery.com (208-765-6006)

BEVIE LABRIE Art from local artist and art therapist Bevie LaBrie. Tue-Fri from 3-8 pm, Sat-Sun from noon-7 pm through June 30. Free. For the Love of God Brewing, 2617 W. Northwest Blvd. fortheloveofgodbrewing.com

HIGHER GROUND: AN EXHIBITION OF ART, EPHEMERA AND FORM Artwork and archival material from across the Palouse that speak to the history of queer experience in the area including historical photographs, writings and art. Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-4:30 pm through

Oct. 31. Free. Washington State University, 2000 NE Stadium Way. libraries.wsu. edu/masc (509-551-4231)

INLAND NORTHWEST JURIED LANDSCAPE ART EXHIBITION This juried display presents the diversity and dynamism of contemporary artistic activity in the Inland Northwest while celebrating the relationship between art and the local landscape. Mon-Sat from 10 am-4 pm through Aug. 24. Free. Jundt Art Museum, 200 E. Desmet Ave. gonzaga.edu/ jundt (509-313-6843)

JEFF WEIR: GO WEST The Coeur d’Alene artist brings life and feeling to ideas of days gone by in his oil-on-canvas paintings of regional wildlife and figures. Tue-Sun from 10 am-5 pm through June 30. $7-$12. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org (509-456-3931)

AARON SMITH The Spokane-based painter finds inspiration in his surroundings, especially as the city celebrates the 50th anniversary of the World’s Fair. Daily from 11 am-7 pm through June 29. Free. Liberty Building, 203 N. Washington St. spokanelibertybuilding.com

MEET YOUR MAKER Meet the artists behind all of the items in From Here. Daily from 11 am-6 pm. See website for artist schedule. Free. From Here, 808 W. Main Ave. fromherespokane.com

SPOKANE ART SCHOOL FACULTY AND STUDENT SHOW An art exhibition featuring staff and students from Spokane Art School. Featured artists include Tom Quinn, Kay West, T Kurtz, Collista Krebs, Liz Bishop and more. June 7-28, MonFri from 10 am-5 pm. Free. Spokane Art School, 503 E. Second Ave., Ste. B. spokaneartschool.net (509-325-1500)

CHRISTINA ROTHE: ABSTRACT WORKS WITH MEANING Rothe discusses life’s journey, the human condition, and our connection with the infinite through her abstract paintings. June 7-29; Tue-Fri from 10 am-6 pm, Sat from 10 am-4 pm. Free. William Grant Gallery & Framing, 1188 W. Summit. williamgrantgf.com

FELISA CARRANZA & KURT CARLSON: BACKWARD AND FORWARD The two featured artists showcase artwork spanning decades. June 7-29, Wed-Sat from 11 am-5 pm. Free. New Moon Art Gallery, 1326 E. Sprague Ave. manicmoonandmore.com (509-413-9101)

DYLAN LIPSKER A display of colorful works by local artist and gallery owner Dylan Lipsker. June 7, 5-8 pm. Free. Big City Art Studio & Gallery, 164 S. Washington St. instagram.com/bigcityartstudio

FIRST FRIDAY Art galleries and businesses across downtown Spokane and beyond host receptions to showcase new displays of art. First Fridays of each month from 5-8 pm. Free. Spokane. downtownspokane.org/first-friday/ Z. MCMASTER: GANYMEDE GEEKS An exhibition featuring McMaster’s quirky creature creations. First Friday (June 7 from 5-9 pm) event features live music by Mama Llama, Wallower and Pontius Pilot. June 7-July 1, daily from 11 am-6 pm. Free. Entropy, 101 N. Stevens St. explodingstars.com (509-414-3226)

HEART OF THE COUNTRY A dual exhibition by artists Bridgette Costa and Laurie Haener featuring mixed-media works depicting their shared life and domesticity together. This exhibition is a part of Spokane Queer Art Walk. June 7-29, by appointment. Free. Kolva-Sullivan Gallery, 115 S. Adams St. mobile.kolva.comcastbiz.net (208-870-2372)

MADELINE GCGINN & THE HIVE ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE Saranac member

Madeline McGinn displays new work in the east gallery. Artists who have completed a residency at The Hive display various artwork in the west gallery. June 7-29, Fri-Sat from 12-8 pm. Free. Saranac Art Projects, 25 W. Main. sapgallery.com

MANITO PARK ART FESTIVAL A festival featuring local artist booths, children’s activities, live music food and more. June 8, 10 am-6 pm. Free. Manito Park, 1800 S. Grand Blvd. thefriendsofmanito.org

ART UPLIFTS An exhibition celebrating the healing power of art and the strength of the community. The show is in memory of Jimmy Magnuson. June 8, 4-6 pm. Free. The Jacklin Arts & Cultural Center, 405 N. William St. thejacklincenter.org

SPOKANE CARVERS ASSOCIATION

2024 RENDEZVOUS Learn to carve or sharpen your skills with classes in carving and wood burning. June 8, 10 am-noon and June 9, 12-4 pm. Free. The Hive, 2904 E. Sprague. spokanecarvers.com

HEARTISTRY: ARTISTIC WELLBEING

A relaxed and inspiring environment for self-discovery. Participate in basic artistic concepts and activities or respond to a mindfulness prompt. Every Tuesday from 3-5 pm. Free. Spark Central, 1214 W. Summit Pkwy. spark-central.org

DROP IN & DRAW Join a creative community for this weekly free-form drawing program. Explore different artistic mediums, develop skills and ideas and cultivate imaginative thinking through art. All skill levels welcome. Supplies and projects provided. Wednesdays from 5:30-7 pm. Free. Spark Central, 1214 W. Summit Pkwy. spark-central.org

OPEN STUDIO Stop by The Hive to see what current Artists-In-Residence are up to, and tour the building. Every Wednesday from 4-7 pm. Free. The Hive, 2904 E. Sprague Ave. spokanelibrary.org

WORDS

ADULT SUMMER READING CHALLENGE

Pick up a challenge card at the adult circulation desk, mark what you read, write a review and give the book back to the circulation desk. Each review gets you an entry into the summer library prize drawing. July 1-Aug. 31, daily. Free. Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. cdalibrary.org (208-769-2315)

CHILDREN’S SUMMER READING CHALLENGE Pick up a reading log in the children’s library, keep track of minutes spent reading and earn a prize or entry into a raffle when you reach hourly goals. June 1-Aug. 31, daily. Free. Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. cdalibrary.org (208-769-2315)

ECHOES OF EXPO Merging personal stories, historical insights and immersive soundscapes, this seven-episode series explores the World Fair’s lasting impact on urban renewal, environmental awakening, the complexities of progress and community dynamics in Spokane. Scan wayfinding signs in the park to listen to each episode. Daily through July 7. Free. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. visitspokane.com (509-625-6600)

PAGE 42 SUMMER READING PROGRAM

For every 20 minutes spent reading, fill in a bubble on the sheet provided. Bring the sheet back to Page 24 by Aug. 31 to collect prizes. For readers K-12. June 1-Aug. 7, daily. Free. Page 42 Bookstore, 2174 N. Hamilton St. page24bookstore.com

3 MINUTE MIC Auntie’s Bookstore’s first

Friday poetry open mic. Readers may share up to three minutes’ worth of poetry. Open to all ages. June 7, 7-8:30 pm. Free. Auntie’s Bookstore, 402 W. Main Ave. auntiesbooks.com (509-838-0206)

FORAY FOR THE ARTS: CELEBRATING PRIDE Multidisciplinary arts performances by Ash, Betsy Rogue, Mery Smith, Ash Montenegro Hart, Danielle Estelle Ramsay, Muffy the Manslayer and Wilma Anita Donut Dargen. June 7, 6-9 pm. Free. Grant Park, 1015 S. Arthur St. instagram.com/foray4thearts

ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE BOOK SALE Sale of private collection of antique and vintage books. June 8, 9 am-4 pm. Sandpoint Rotary Building, 68 Old Diamond Mill Loop. sandpointonline.com

BOOK CLUB: THE CANDY HOUSE BY JENNIFER EGAN Discuss The Candy House by Jennifer Egan, the sequel to her 2010 novel A Visit From the Goon Squad June 8, 10:30-11:30 am. Free. South Hill Library, 3324 S. Perry St. spokanelibrary. org (509-444-5300)

AUNTIE’S BOOK CLUB: MORNING Discuss Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer at the June meeting. June 11, 11 am-noon. Free. Auntie’s Bookstore, 402 W. Main Ave. .auntiesbooks.com

TEEN WRITE CLUB Teen writers are invited to get feedback on their work and explore all things prose and poetry. Every Tuesday from 5:30-7 pm. Free. Spark Central, 1214 W. Summit Pkwy. sparkcentral.org (509-279-0299)

BROKEN MIC A weekly open mic reading series. Wednesdays at 6:30 pm; sign-ups at 6 pm. Free. Neato Burrito, 827 W. First Ave. bit.ly/2ZAbugD (509-847-1234)

GENRE 101: THE CRAFT OF WRITING ROMANCE, MYSTERY AND MORE Local stars of the mystery and romance genres, Tamara Berry, Colin Conway, Asa Maria Bradley and Frank Zafiro, gather together to discuss their writing and publishing lives. Bring inquiries for a Q&A. June 12, 6-7 pm. Free. South Hill Library, 3324 S. Perry St. spokanelibrary.org

J. WILLIAM T. YOUNGS: THE FAIR AND THE FALLS Youngs’ book tells the story of Spokane’s Expo ’74 within the framework of Spokane’s overarching history. June 14, 7 pm. Free. Auntie’s Bookstore, 402 N. Washington St. auntiesbooks.com

FRIENDS OF THE LIBERTY LAKE MUNICIPAL LIBRARY BOOK SALE A wide variety of books, DVDs, CDs, audiobooks and puzzles at discounted prices. Cash or check only. June 14, 12-6 pm and June 15, 9 am-3 pm. Free. Liberty Lake Library, 23123 E. Mission Ave. libertylakefriends. org (509-232-2510) n

WRITE TOGETHER: A COMMUNITY WRITING SESSION Bring your current writing project, your favorite writing tools and prepare to hunker down and write with local novelist and the library’s Writing Education Specialist Sharma Shields. June 14, 10 am-noon. Free. Liberty Park Library, 402 S. Pittsburgh St. spokanelibrary.org (509-444-5300)

JENNIFER EGAN: THE CANDY HOUSE: Discuss The Candy House by Jennifer Egan, a sequel to her 2010 novel A Visit From the Goon Squad. June 15, 10:30 am. Free. Indian Trail Library, 4909 W. Barnes Rd. spokanelibrary.org

PRIDE STORYTIME Auntie’s booksellers read some of their favorite LGBTQ+ children’s stories. June 15, 11 am-noon. Free. Auntie’s Bookstore, 402 W. Main Ave. auntiesbooks.com n

EDIBLES

Cool Drinks

Washington’s flourishing cannabis beverage market is about to get even more crowded

ust in time for the return of summer weather, cannabis consumers who are looking for a cooler option than hot smoke will have another choice as longtime California producer CQ is bringing its product to the Evergreen State through a partnership with Seattle producer Swifts.

“The Washington drink market is very mature and highly competitive,” Jordan McAulay, sales director at Swifts, said in a news release about the partnership.

In that spirit, here are two beverage brands that have been leading the way in Washington, along with some info on the newcomer from California.

FRACTAL INFUSED SODAS

In a segment of the market dominated by fruity flavors, Fractal Infused’s Mojo brand offers colas, sodas and root beers that stand out on the shelves. Fractal Infused uses a full-spectrum cannabis extract in their beverages to give consumers a well-rounded product.

The Seattle-area producer’s 100-milligram bottles are widely available around our region. Cinder’s three locations in Spokane and Spokane Valley carry the full line of root beer, sodas and colas for $15 dollars per bottle.

RAY’S LEMONADES

A local classic produced by Dogtown Pioneers just north of Spokane, Ray’s Lemonade has been a staple on dispensary shelves for years. While they’ve expanded their flavor offerings over time, my personal favorite remains their original.

Unlike many other products on the market, the 12-ounce, 100-milligram bottle of Ray’s Original Lemonade is fantastic as a mixer for those who want to sip slowly without getting aggressively stoned. One serving of the classic lemonade pairs wonderfully when splashed into a can of flavored sparkling water.

CQ SHOOTERS

The new arrival that inspired this story, CQ, returns to Washington after a number of years out of the market. Originally producing for the medical side, the California company is now entering our recreational market starting in early June.

“Five states and 10 years later, here we are again, it feels like a return to our roots,” says CQ founder Kenny Morrison. Their 2-ounce shooters pack a hefty punch with 100 milligrams of THC, so it’s important to know your tolerance and dose with care, but the drinks are light in other areas with just 26 calories and 7 grams of sugar. Made using real juice, the company will be offering the tropical flavors that have been a big hit in California for years along with some flavors exclusive to Washington, including concord grape. n

CQ’s cannabis drinks are returning to Washington state.

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 five-year sentence and fine of up to $10,000. Transporting marijuana across state lines, like from Washington into Idaho, is a felony under federal law.

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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.

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.