Inlander 06/13/2024

SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR GROWN-UPS, TEENS, KIDS AND MORE SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR GROWN-UPS, TEENS, KIDS AND MORE

EDITOR’S NOTE

How do we begin to quantify the perfection of a Pacific Northwest summer, when every spare moment on these gloriously long, sunshine-filled days is reserved for its enjoyment. From melty ice cream cones by the lake to hiking up a nearby mountain top; movie night under the stars or happy hour on an umbrella-shaded patio, opportunities to make the most of summer are everywhere.

In our annual SUMMER GUIDE issue — a whopping 120 pages inside this 48-page Inlander — we’ve packed as many suggested activities, events and outings as we could fit so that you can fill your days of summer. Be inspired to pack up the car for a regional road trip, or see how many great books you can cross off your reading list. Although the season’s focus is fun, there are also plenty of opportunities to learn new things, whether that’s a hobby, art or even something a teacher would be thrilled by — head to a local museum or sign up for a class; there are tons to choose from.

Whether you like your summers jam-packed with activities or more laid-back and low-key, our team has done the research for you. Now it’s time to decide how you’ll fit in all that fun.

— CHEY SCOTT, Editor

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WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO DOING THIS SUMMER?

JEFF O’CONNOR

Being off for this summer. I’ve practiced medicine for a long time, I’m teaching at the medical school now. Summers here are beautiful, [my wife and I] are going to take a nice road trip west to visit friends

What states are you going to? California, Oregon, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana.

ERIN POWERS

I’m just excited to hang out with friends, walk around in the sun, go to the beach or the Cove.

What beach are you going to go to?

The Cove at Coeur d’Alene or something like that.

TIFFANY MOUSSA

I’m going to Spain with my friend for her birthday next month, so I’m super excited. And hanging out with friends, going to lakes, just chilling.

What are you going to do in Spain?

We’re going to Barcelona and then we’re going to go to a bunch of concerts, so we’re seeing a lot of EDM type people like Calvin Harris, Swed ish House Mafia, Fisher… I’m super excited.

BRADY CAMPBELL

I am looking forward to disappearing into the woods a lot. Fly fishing, sitting in the river, camping, backpacking.

Where do you like to go?

I go all over the place — Montana, a lot; North Idaho; north of Sandpoint there’s a lot of trails I take up there.

JULIA SCHUMAN

For it to start. [laughs] My favorite thing to do is kayak on the water up at Long Lake, so that’s what I’m excited for, and I don’t think it’s going to be a blistering hot summer as in the past. I’m looking forward to being outside.

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Peony’s Progress

Nature offers lessons on how to learn to love slowness — sometimes very slowly

BY TARA ROBERTS

Three weeks ago I took a picture of a bud on the peony plant at the end of my driveway. It looked about ready to open, and I thought I’d snap a photo every day for a few days and end up with a cute Instagram post.

A week in, the bud had barely changed. But I was OK with it — I was struggling with ideas for a column, as always, and appreciated the peony handing me a tidy metaphor about progress. Soon the flower would open, and I would write about how I had waited so patiently.

Another week passed. My neighbors’ peonies exploded into flower, their blossoms so full they collapsed to the sidewalk in piles of ruffles like exhausted cancan dancers. My bud opened a millimeter or so.

I stopped at the end of the driveway to lament at the end of a walk with my husband. “I was going to write about gardens and waiting and accepting slow progress,” I said, stomping past the flowerbed. “But this stupid thing is taking forever. It’s not making any progress at all.”

“I see,” he said. “And how much progress have you made on your column?”

That was beside the point.

Since my first novel came out in January, people have been asking how I managed it. I started drafting it when I was working full time in a chaotic job, my children were in kinder-

garten and third grade, and I was finishing a master’s degree one class at a time. When on earth did I have time to write?

The truth is, I didn’t. I was stressed, anxious, and in pain. At one point I told a friend with absolute confidence that I didn’t need as much sleep as other people. I was determined to find time to write, which I suppose is admirable, but I was doing it by stealing from myself in other ways.

By the time I sold my novel in 2022, I’d quit my job in a state of burnout and pushed my body to the point that I finally told my doctor about my chronic pain, which it turns out was being caused by a genetic disease that I was exacerbating with hours of hunched-over typing.

In the two years since, I’ve been learning to change. I’m writing this column with voice-to-text software. I’ve started my own business (since most novelists have to have day jobs, tragically) so I can better manage my time and stress. I do my physical therapy no matter how whiny I feel. I get enough sleep (for real). I occasionally ask for extensions on my columns. And for my creative work, I guide myself with a new motto: Slow progress is still

Now, when people ask me how I have time to write, I say I sometimes don’t. I still write, and I’m still driven to, but I try to move at whatever pace my mind, body, and life demand.

I wish I could say I always embrace that pace, that I have become a paragon of patience. But, well, I still yell at flowers for opening too slowly.

Learning to accept slowness is a slow process, too.

“Now, when people ask me how I have time to write, I say I sometimes don’t.”

It’s hard enough to do when the thing you’re waiting for is beautiful during the waiting, like a flower. It’s harder when it’s messy, like art. It’s awful when it’s something that should change as quickly as possible: like what scientists call “wicked problems,” such as climate change or hunger, which desperately need to be solved but are so knotted up with complicating factors, there is no quick way to disentangle them.

Biology and physics insist on being pesky obstacles to progress both big and small. Human tendencies like greed and violence, not to mention impatience, interrupt even the slowest forward motion.

Forging ahead with patience can be discouraging. Sometimes progress is so slow, it looks like it isn’t happening at all. Sometimes, the place we (slowly) end up isn’t the place we thought we’d be. It takes faith to believe that tiny steps can truly add up to something bigger, and diligence to ensure that slowness doesn’t turn into excuses or apathy.

Still, even when I’m not particularly good at it, I believe embracing slowness is a worthwhile practice for humans, on our own and together. I can’t promise that it’s easy, or that it brings instant peace — or any peace at all.

But I can tell you that yesterday, the peony at the end of my driveway bloomed. n

Tara Roberts is a writer who lives in Moscow with her husband and sons. Her novel Wild and Distant Seas was published in January. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @tarabethidaho.

Countering Cyberbullying

As Instagram updates its features to prevent youth cyberbullying, Inland Northwest organizations weigh in on how social media affects the communities they serve

BY COLTON RASANEN

These days, up to 95% of teens use social media, and a third of them say they use it almost constantly, the U.S. Surgeon General reported in 2023. With this near universal usage, social media apps like Instagram have become a hotbed for harassment and cyberbullying, leaving Meta, the company behind Instagram and Facebook, in search of ways to make their platforms safer for youth.

While Instagram has strict anti-bullying policies in place, Meta spokesperson Dayna Geldwert says that some of today’s bullying can skirt the platform’s established rules.

“We know that parents and teens think a lot about how to prevent bullying online, but not everything goes

against our rules,” she says. “Something that may be innocuously phrased, which may be seemingly fine to other people, wouldn’t be flagged as bullying.”

To address this, Meta is utilizing some of Instagram’s current features in new ways to prevent instances of bullying from continuing to slip through the cracks, Geldwert says.

The first tool that’s been adapted is Limits, which was introduced a few years back to hide direct messages (DMs) and comments from people who don’t follow your account. This has been expanded so users can restrict their comment sections and DMs to a list of their closest friends — rather than all of their followers.

Geldwert says this is meant to be utilized in “high sensitivity, high severity moments,” which are usually characterized by Instagram as a “bullying campaign” where there is an influx of comments or followers on one person’s account. In these instances, Instagram will reach out to the user and ask if they’d like to turn on Limits for their account.

The other tool that has been updated is called Restrict, which gives users the ability to restrict how people interact with their account. Geldwert says she’s heard that this is one of the features that teens appreciate the most. Now, she says, it gives these users the power to

Updated Instagram features, like Limits, are meant to prevent and address youth cyberbullying. ILLUSTRATION COURTESY OF META

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Sources: Washington State Healthy Youth Survey, National Center for Education Statistics

Since 2012, Spokane County schools have outpaced both state and national percentages for student-reported bullying.

preview comments on their posts and then choose to either delete them, post them or ignore them.

“We’ve seen that teens want to keep tabs when people are saying things about them, but they just don’t want other people to see them,” Geldwert explains. “Restrict gives [teens] more control and ownership of their account.”

Additionally, these changes make it so teens don’t have to utilize the app’s blocking feature.

“These new updates alleviate the burden on teens to confront bullies by blocking or reporting them,” Meta states. “Now, teens can easily protect themselves without provoking further harassment and future retaliation.”

“Blocking someone seems extra, especially when it’s the person you sit next to in math class,” Geldwert adds.

The updates are currently live on Instagram, so teen users can begin to access them as soon as they want, but that doesn’t mean that cyberbullying has been “fixed.” Teens in Spokane County are reporting higher levels of bullying than their state and national counterparts, but organizations like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Spokane and Spokane Public Schools are working to reduce online harassment and improve students’ well-being.

‘KEYBOARD COURAGE’

Bullying has existed for far longer than any social media platform. However, the rise in popularity of social media sites among teens has created an environment where cyberbullying thrives.

Chauntelle Lieske, the NAMI Spokane executive director, says this has only gotten worse since the pandemic’s onset in 2020 pushed more teens online.

In 2019, teens spent more than seven hours per day on their phones, which grew to nearly nine hours per day in 2021, not including screen time spent on academics, according to data compiled by the nonprofit Common Sense, which advocates for online safety.

Lieske says the increased social media use and an uptick in reported cyberbullying incidents has led to more teens experiencing mental health issues like depression or even eating disorders. But where is all this bullying on social media coming from?

Lieske thinks it’s likely tied to something

she calls “keyboard courage.” As she describes it, the ability to hide behind a keyboard and screen makes it easier to say things that normally wouldn’t be said in person.

“People aren’t people anymore when you’re behind a screen,” Lieske says.

While she says it’s impossible to pinpoint why people choose to bully others online, statistics seem to point toward this “keyboard courage” as a strong conduit for that type of behavior.

Nearly half (46%) of U.S. teens have reported experiencing some form of cyberbullying, according to a 2022 study from the Pew Research Center. These include instances of offensive name-calling, spreading false rumors, receiving explicit images without their consent, and even threats of physical violence.

Meanwhile, less than 20% of teens reported in-person bullying during the 2021-22 school year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. That percentage gets higher as the data is localized to Washington state (about 23%) and Spokane County (about 25%), according to the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction’s Healthy Youth Survey.

But despite the widespread social media usage among kids and teens, researchers haven’t conducted “robust independent safety analyses on the impact of social media on youth,” the Surgeon General’s 2023 report states. “There are increasing concerns among researchers, parents and caregivers, young people, health care experts, and others about the impact of social media on youth mental health.”

NO PHONES IN CLASS?

For the last decade, Ryan Lancaster has overseen the Spokane Public Schools’ social media accounts. In that time he’s seen social media platforms grow into an unsafe place for the district’s students.

“When I first started it was a platform for information and keeping in touch,” he says. “Now I’m seeing it morph into this place that is filled with lots of misinformation and stuff that doesn’t serve anyone. Every principal I’ve engaged with on this topic has told me the same thing — social media is harming our kids.”

That harm can come in many forms, Lancaster says. Often it’s just a classroom distraction that prevents students from learning and requires

school staff to step in. But sometimes online confrontations manifest into real world confrontations, creating a larger risk of student violence.

Additionally, he says that the near universal usage of social media among youth is making it impossible to separate what’s happening online from day-to-day life.

To address some of these issues, Lancaster says the SPS Board of Directors is considering changing its policies to prevent cellphone usage in its schools. They’ve already completed a yearlong pilot program by implementing a no cellphone policy at Salk Middle School.

In that time, Salk staff members have seen a blossoming of peer-to-peer connections that they may not have seen if the policy had not been implemented, Lancaster explains.

“The school board is now weighing how to develop a districtwide policy that would still allow students to have phones on their person, but also not letting cellphones drive students’ every day,” he says.

It’s unclear when a decision on the phone policy might be made.

As for the changes Meta is making to Instagram, Lancaster isn’t so sure they’ll be effective.

“I love the idea of what Meta is doing, and I hope that Meta steps up, but I’m skeptical,” he says.

School principals often approach Lancaster regarding inflammatory posts that one student made toward another, he says. But there’s really nothing that he can do to stop that, besides filing a report to Instagram like anyone else would.

“It’d be nice to get some more help from [Meta]. I think they should work on giving more resources to actually address problems, like cyberbullying,” he says.

OPEN PARTICIPATION

Restricting phones in class isn’t the only thing SPS is considering. The district’s main initiative to decrease phone usage is to get students involved in some type of extracurricular activity.

“There’s a proven correlation that participating in extracurriculars can get a kid off the screen, reducing the risk of mental health problems,” Lancaster says. “It’s almost the antithesis of social media.”

Stephanie Splater, SPS director of athletics and after-school programs, has been tasked with leading this charge, with the goal of 80% student participation by 2028. While she doesn’t have an exact count, Splater can confirm that the district is currently sitting just above 50% student participation in extracurricular activities.

While the 80% goal may seem ambitious in a district of about 30,000 students, Splater says SPS has a few policies in place that can increase participation.

First, she says none of the district’s sports teams are allowed to cut those who try out, meaning someone’s skill level won’t prevent them from participating in a sport of their choosing. For example, two of the district’s schools have four softball teams and three other schools have three teams each. Other activities like volleyball and tennis have close to 100 participants at those same schools.

In addition to the more accessible sports teams, Splater says she’s made it her goal to initiate as many after school clubs and activities as possible — as long as some students are showing an interest.

“I think our thought process is about balance,” she says. “It’s about enjoying being at cross country practice at Manito Park on a fall afternoon, and not having your phone with you because it’s such a great experience. Or it’s about having it nearby because you might be looking something up, but you’re engaged in the activity interacting with other people.”

She says that interaction was lost during the pandemic, so it’s more important now than ever before to have students interacting with each other, instead of their phones.

“We’re not anti-technology, because so many opportunities for students do incorporate technology,” she says. “I just think that interacting with others and feeling connected to a community is super important for these kids and their mental well-being.” n coltonr@inlander.com

Only Lime Will Tell

EATS ISSUE

Lime returns to Spokane later than usual with a stricter city contract that aims for ‘more accountability’

BY NATE SANFORD

Summer weather is starting to hit Spokane, and across the city, packs of bright green electric scooters and bikes are popping up on sidewalks like flowers sprouting from the ground.

hold them accountable,” Ryan Shea, a city planner, told City Council members last month.

The City Council voted 5-2 last week to approve the new two-year contract (with an option to renew), though some council members expressed lingering concerns.

“I don’t think the revenue justifies the inconvenience,” Council member Kitty Klitzke said. “I think we should really see this as a pilot project, and if it doesn’t work, reserve our right to pull out of the contract.”

Lime’s roughly 1,500 rental electric scooters and bikes normally hit the streets of Spokane in March. But the local fleet’s rollout was delayed until the first week of June this year as city officials solicited applications from other vendors and negotiated a stricter contract to address issues that have plagued Lime’s tenure in Spokane.

Since Lime scooters and bikes first appeared in Spokane in fall 2018, more than 500,000 people have taken 2.3 million rides. Lime estimates that Spokane Lime rides have eliminated 570,000 car trips, saving an estimated 25,000 gallons of gas.

It’s a “valuable option for folks to get around,” says Hayden Harvey, director of government relations for Lime.

Lime pays the city an annual fee of $17,000, in addition to 75 cents per vehicle per day. The agreement netted the city $190,000 in 2022 and $186,000 last year, with the funds going to transportation projects.

Council members Lili Navarette and Michael Cathcart voted against the new contract.

“I personally never really liked the Lime scooters,” Navarette said, citing issues with the scooters blocking sidewalks and being thrown in rivers. “They’re a nuisance.”

But Lime’s reception in Spokane hasn’t all been positive. Riders frequently park the scooters they’ve borrowed improperly — blocking sidewalks and causing accessibility problems. City law prohibits riding the scooters on sidewalks downtown, but people still do so frequently, which also causes conflicts with pedestrians.

There’s also the river problem. It’s not uncommon for vandals to toss the scooters — which have toxic lithium batteries — into the Spokane River. Last summer, the Spokesman-Review reported that a single magnet-fishing club had pulled 257 scooters from the river since 2019.

The start of Lime’s sixth Spokane summer was also clouded by a high-profile vandalism incident as soon as the first scooters were put out last week.

The city’s new contract seeks to hold Lime accountable by making it the company’s responsibility to stop people from riding on sidewalks and improperly parking the light vehicles there. It also requires that Lime periodically report collisions involving its vehicles, pay to remove them from the river and distribute at least 10% of its fleet in underserved parts of the city.

If Lime fails to follow the new rules, the city can fine the company between $500 and $2,500 per day; each day an issue goes unaddressed may count as a separate offense.

“There are additional requirements that will

WRONG PLACE, RIGHT LIME

Lime has a monopoly in Spokane because the city only allows one rental bike/scooter company to operate at a time. That’s not the case in all cities. Seattle, for instance, has five rental companies: Bird, Link, Lime, Spin and Wheels.

Council members Cathcart and Jonathan Bingle have argued that the city should open things up and drive competition by allowing multiple companies to operate at the same time. But Shea, with the city, told council members last month that multiple operators would burden city staff. The North American Bikeshare and Scootershare Association recommends limiting things to one or two operators for cities with populations between 200,000 and 500,000, he added.

Klitzke also expressed concern about multiple operators exacerbating issues with the electric vehicles crowding sidewalks.

When finished riding a Lime scooter or bike, users are required to park them “out of public pathways and upright with the kickstand down.” But that often doesn’t happen.

Improperly parked Lime scooters and bikes that block sidewalks can be an especially big issue for people in wheelchairs, the elderly, families with strollers and people with vision impairment.

Greg Szabo, who works for a Spokane not-for-profit called Lighthouse for the Blind, told the council members last Monday that he is vision impaired and has been blocked by many improperly parked Lime vehicles.

“There’s nothing I can do except turn around,” Szabo said.

To address the problem, the new contract requires Lime to implement a fine system. Users who park the bikes or scooters improperly will receive a $10 fine, which doubles with each subsequent violation. After five violations, they’ll be banned from the app.

The new contract also requires Lime to remove scooters that are thrown in the river within 24 hours. If they fail to do so, the city will hire a contractor to do it and invoice Lime for the costs.

Encountering someone riding a Lime on the sidewalk can be a “visible and often frustrating experience,” Harvey says. To address that, the new city contract requires Lime to phase in a new camera technology that uses artificial intelligence to detect when people are riding on sidewalks.

Harvey notes that sidewalk riding is also a problem of infrastructure.

“People ride on sidewalks when they fear for their lives in the streets,” Harvey says. “With better infrastructure, we see less sidewalk riding.”

‘VILE ACT’

Last week, as the first Lime scooters of the year rolled onto Spokane streets, the company was confronted with a new problem: anti-LGBTQ+ vandalism.

On Wednesday night, June 5, police arrested three young people who allegedly yelled a homophobic slur at a witness and used Lime scooters to create skid marks on the Riverfront Pride mural. The mural had just been repainted hours earlier to cover damage from a group who set it on fire a few weeks prior.

Harvey says the recent incident was a “vile act.”

“For our devices to be used to deface this community art is upsetting to say the least,” Harvey says.

Lime responded to the incident by creating a “no ride” zone around the mural to prevent it from future vandalism. The company is also donating $2,000 to Spokane Arts to help repaint the mural, again.

When asked about community members’ continued concerns about Lime — the sidewalk riding, the parking problems, the river contamination and the general sense of destruction that sometimes follows the scooters — Harvey says Lime is dedicated to working with Spokane.

“At every juncture, we have moved with haste to solve issues,” Harvey says. “We are ultimately committed to the city of Spokane and Spokanites who use and rely on Lime and those who don’t.” n

nates@inlander.com

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Lime has returned to Spokane, with new rules. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Sean Sues Spokane

Sean Feucht thinks the city of Spokane owes him money.

Last week, the right-wing evangelist and touring musician filed a lawsuit alleging that Spokane City Council members violated his freedom of expression and freedom of religion when they passed a resolution last September denouncing former Mayor Nadine Woodward for appearing onstage at an event with him and former state Rep. Matt Shea.

The resolution, which passed 4-3, declared that the City Council “does not condone the hateful and dangerous behavior and beliefs espoused by Matt Shea and Sean Feucht, nor does it condone Mayor Woodward’s public appearance with him.”

Shea is a known quantity in Spokane. He has been tied to extremist groups and was expelled from the state Republican legislative caucus in 2019 after a report found that he participated in domestic terrorism by helping plan the armed occupation of Oregon’s Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in 2016. Feucht, meanwhile, is a national figure and right-wing culture warrior who has made derogatory remarks about the LGBTQ+ community.

The City Council passed the resolution a few weeks after video surfaced of Woodward praying on stage with Shea at a “Let Us Worship” event in Spokane that Feucht headlined on Aug. 20. (Woodward later said she didn’t know Shea would be there.)

The resolution carried no legislative impact; it was mainly a formal way for the progressive council members to say they disagreed with the mayor’s decision to associate with the two controversial men.

Regardless, Feucht’s lawyers are now claiming the resolution was passed “to target Feucht’s sincere religious practice by communicating to government officials, and everyone in Spokane, Washington that they should not be involved in worship and prayer with Feucht.” They claim the resolution violated the U.S. Constitution’s freedom of religion and expression clauses, in addition to various parts of the Washington state Constitution and Spokane City Charter.

Self-described Chrisian nationalist Sean Feucht files lawsuit claiming a Spokane City Council resolution violated his First Amendment rights

BY NATE SANFORD

Feucht, a self-described Christian nationalist who has previously said he wants to live in a country where “Christians are making the laws,” also claims the resolution violates the U.S. Constitution’s establishment clause, which bars the government from establishing or sponsoring a religion.

The lawsuit names the city of Spokane as a defendant, along with the four council members who voted for the resolution: Former City Council President Lori Kinnear, current Council President Betsy Wilkerson, former Council member Karen Stratton and current Council member Zack Zappone.

Feucht’s lawsuit seeks damages due to “emotional distress and other non-economic damages, the full amount that will be proved at trial.” It also asks the court to declare the resolution null and void, and for an injunction against the city of Spokane to ensure that no other government leader or individual shall be condemned by Spokane for “interacting with him due to his religious beliefs.”

Feucht has spent recent months playing worship shows across the country and rallying against Pride month. He returned to Spokane earlier this month — hyping up his lawsuit during a Sunday service at On Fire Ministries, a church led by Shea.

If successful, Feucht suggested that he would use the financial payout to throw “the most lavish, expensive, wild worship service this city’s ever seen.”

“The city’s going to pay for it, amen,” Feucht said.

In a statement, Zappone said he “strongly denies” the claims and allegations in Feucht’s lawsuit, and that the resolution was “within [the council’s] legal authority, warranted as a matter of policy, and completely constitutional.” The other council members named in the complaint declined or did not respond to requests for comment. City spokesperson Erin Hut says the city does not comment on pending litigation.

Feucht’s team replied to an interview request with a brief statement.

“Liberals have gotten away with using the power of

government to bully Christians for too long, and we’re not putting up with it anymore,” Feucht’s team wrote. “We have the right to gather and worship and pray without being attacked and maligned by our own government, so we are going to fight back.”

Feucht’s lawsuit claims that, by passing the resolution, the four council members “declared the religious views of certain people to be acceptable or unacceptable.”

“In passing this resolution, Spokane, Washington not only condemned and discouraged [Feucht’s] religious beliefs and practices, but those of many in Spokane, Washington who believe in the Gospel,” the lawsuit says.

Feucht is being represented by the Silent Majority Foundation — a conservative nonprofit based in Pasco, Washington.

The organization was formed in 2021 and has filed a series of largely unsuccessful lawsuits challenging COVID vaccine mandates, Gov. Jay Inslee’s pandemic emergency mandates and state restrictions on assaultstyle weapons.

The director and general counsel of the Silent Majority Foundation is Pete Serrano, a Pasco City Council member who is also mayor. He is also running for state attorney general this year.

Feucht is also being represented by Marshall Casey — a former law partner of Shea’s.

Shea was quietly laid off from Casey’s firm, M. Casey Law, at the end of 2019 shortly after the Washington state House released the report concluding that he had engaged in domestic terrorism.

Casey tells the Inlander that confidentiality rules prevent him from discussing Feucht’s case.

“The complaint speaks for itself,” Casey says.

Despite Casey’s connections to Shea — and the fact that the City Council’s September resolution largely focused on Shea, not Feucht — the 31-page complaint filed by Feucht’s attorneys last Wednesday does not mention Shea’s name once. n.

nates@inlander.com

Spokane City Council in July of 2023, just before Mayor Nadine Woodward appeared with Matt Shea. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

Editor’s Note: A longer version of this story ran on Inlander.com last week. Find the full story online.

Homelessness Decreases, Maybe

Fewer people were counted in Spokane’s annual homeless tally. Plus, City Council decides how to spend ARPA money; and Spokane County demonstrates mobile broadband towers.

BY INLANDER STAFF

Spokane County’s homeless population has decreased since last year, according to the 2024 Point-in-Time Count, an annual count of homeless people that happens every January. The federally mandated survey — while imprecise — can provide insight into how Spokane’s homelessness crisis is or isn’t changing. This year’s count found 2,021 people experiencing homelessness in Spokane County — a 15% decrease compared with last year’s tally That’s the first year-to-year decrease since 2016. Of those surveyed, 1,578 were in shelters or transitional housing programs, and 443 were living on the street or in cars. That represents a 54% decrease in people who were unsheltered, and a 10% increase in those who were sheltered. The closure of Camp Hope last June may have artificially contributed to the decrease. When the camp was open, it was easier for volunteers to find and count unsheltered people. Half of those surveyed this year self-reported having a mental illness, and 38% self-reported a substance use disorder. The survey also found that Black and Indigenous people continue to be overrepresented in the county’s homeless population. Lack of affordable housing was the top reason people cited for being homeless. (NATE SANFORD)

FEDERAL SPENDING SPREE

Spokane has $4.9 million in federal pandemic money that needs to be spent ASAP. With a few caveats, the money can be spent on anything loosely connected to helping the community recover from the pandemic or its economic implications. After months of debate, Spokane City Council members finally reached a compromise on Monday on how to spend the remaining federal money. The biggest item on the list is $1.8 million for “property acquisition” to reduce the impact of homelessness downtown and/or fund a new shelter model outside of downtown. Mayor Lisa Brown originally proposed putting almost all of the federal funds toward homelessness downtown, but some council members disagreed. The list approved on Monday also puts about $550,000 into municipal court services and $503,000 into a “clean and safe” litter cleanup program. The rest of the funds are split between child care center projects; youth sports; refuse receptacles for East Sprague; residential street lighting; alley activation; a downtown housing study; workspace improvements for the Police Ombudsman’s office; a vehicle to be used for behavioral health services; a marketing campaign to sign people up for the working families tax credit; a school-based health center; equipment and facility improvements at the downtown fire station; and Cannon Hill Pond improvements. (NATE SANFORD)

COUNTY CONNECTIONS

Thanks to a broadband internet pilot program in Spokane County, more people within one of the county’s “digital deserts” will have access to the web. With a $4.6 million grant from the Washington State Broadband Office, the Spokane Regional Broadband Development Authority, Broadlinc, has been able to bring near-term internet connectivity to at least 100 households in south Spokane County as long-term infrastructure like fiber optic connectivity continues to be built. To do this, Broadlinc is using new “Cellular on Wheels” technology, which is essentially a temporary broadband tower that can be collapsed small enough to fit into a standard pickup truck and taken where it’s needed. It was demonstrated in Spangle last week. Additionally, the program brought this technology to first responder vehicles within Spokane County Fire District No. 3. “We now have the ability to receive emergency call information not available to our units before,” SCFD3 Deputy Chief Dustin Flock said in a news release. “This is really going to be a game changer come fire season this summer.” (COLTON RASANEN) n

Demanding Visibility

TRIBAL CULTURE

During Expo, local tribes insisted on telling their own stories and managing their own attraction — and the people loved it

BY BILL YOUNGS

Not long ago, when Native Americans appeared in world’s fairs, they were “presented” by non-native managers. As one commentator wrote of the 1893 Chicago World Fair, “Native people themselves were put on display as trophies of settler colonialism — often in direct contrast to the ‘more civilized’ settler population.” Sonny Tuttle and other Native leaders in the Spokane region would have none of that at Expo ’74.

The local tribes had formed Northwest Indian Enterprises to coordinate Indian participation at Expo ’74. NIE hired Tuttle as its spokesperson. Tuttle, an Oglala Sioux, insisted that Indians should shape their own fair participation — and have a section of the fairgrounds under their own control. “We feel,” he said, “that any other way would be a sort of shotgun approach and make it hard to spot the Indians between the popcorn and candy apple stands.”

At Native American’s Earth, visitors were told that “Indian people are no longer ‘vanishing Americans’ and do not wish to be culturally invisible.”

GEORGE FLETT ART / NORTHWEST MUSEUM OF ARTS AND CULTURE

Fortunately, the Native American presence at the fair was not “hard to spot” at all. About an acre of land beside the Folklife Exhibit was devoted to “Native American’s Earth.” A program declared: “Indian people are no longer ‘vanishing Americans’ and do not wish to be culturally invisible.”

TRIBAL FASHION SHOW + MUSIC FESTIVAL

June 13 | Riverfront Pavilion | 5 pm

This free fashion show and music festival features Native designers, models and music artists! The fashion show starts at 5pm with the music festival afterwards. Free.

Another native leader, Skip Skanen, then-chairman of the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Council, was particularly annoyed by negotiations with the Economic Development Administration in D.C. He said later that the EDA’s “idea of Indian participation was to put a teepee up and put a man in a war bonnet and sit him there through six months of the Expo.”

SPOKANE’S GOT TALENT

June 20 | Riverfront Pavilion | 6 pm

Produced in partnership with Spokane Civic Theatre, this family-friendly edition of the talent showcase promises to immerse audiences in the funky vibes and iconic styles of the ’70s. A panel of esteemed judges from Spokane’s entertainment industry will give feedback and crown the winners, who will earn prizes. Expect an evening filled with dazzling performances, retro flair and infectious energy. Get ready to boogie down memory lane!

A mingling of peoples took place on several levels at the Indian festival. Members of distant tribes came to Expo for engagements of one week. Each tribe put on displays — especially dances — for their own satisfaction, for other natives and for non-Indians, whom they often invited to join the dances. The great Russian gymnast Olga Korbut was one such visiting dancer. The Indians who took part in Expo included Spokanes, Kalispels, Colvilles, Coeur d’Alenes, Umatillas, Makahs and Yakamas.

Native American’s Earth soon became one of the most popular events at the world’s fair. A few weeks into the exposition, Sonny Tuttle was called into the manager’s office. On the way, he thought, “Oh Lord! I wonder what’s gone wrong this time.” But when he got there, manager Peter Spurney shook hands and said, “You guys are second [in attendance] only to that gigantic Soviet Pavilion.”

The Ford Pavilion

One of the most famous visitors to Expo ’74 was Lee Iacocca, president of the Ford Motor Co. He was the “father” of one of the most popular cars of his time, the Ford Mustang, and his Ford Pavilion was one of the first corporate exhibits on the fairgrounds.

The Ford Pavilion was a translucent geodesic dome, 120 feet in diameter and 45 feet high,

dedicated to the theme of camping. It featured an authentic Indian teepee, modern camping gear, Henry Ford’s woody station wagon and a documentary film showing Ford camping with fellow entrepreneurs.

On Opening Day, Iacocca proudly visited his company’s pavilion and toured the Expo grounds in a pedal-driven rickshaw.

During a luncheon at the Ridpath Hotel, Iacocca paid Spokane a

handsome compliment: “As of today, we have a new definition of pride, especially pride of achievement. To show his pride a person now needs only to say, ‘I’m from Spokane.’” Departing from his prepared text, Iacocca admitted that during earlier discussions of the exposition, he had been skeptical. “Whoever heard of a world’s fair in Spokane?”

Then drawing on a term from the ecological movement, Iacocca declared. “You’ve proved that we can recycle our cities!” (BILL YOUNGS)

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

Every week in the Inlander through the end of

Friends in High Places

Among the assets that enabled Spokane to host a world’s fair was the support of powerful public figures. Two fine mayors, Neal Fosseen and David Rodgers, led the city government before and during Expo. Local business leaders also got behind the effort, which really started years earlier with the 1961 Ebasco Report commissioned by Spokane Unlimited; the findings underlined the need for action to save downtown Spokane.

American Sign and Indicator cofounder Luke Williams lobbied Olympia for support; Washington Trust Bank President Phil Stanton was also chairman of Spokane Unlimited; developer John Hieber first sounded the alarm when Sears announced plans to leave downtown for NorthTown Mall; then there were Rod Lindsay, Avery Peyton, Bob Paterson, William Bacon, Larry Brown, Jim McGoldrick, Ed McWilliams, Charlie Parks… the list goes on. And it’s worth remembering that the business leaders who helped make miracles happen did it while holding full-time jobs.

In Washington, D.C., the most powerful U.S. Senate delegation of the time, Henry

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

Jackson and Warren Magnuson, advocated for federal support of the fair. Magnuson brought to his work an affection for Spokane Falls and a concern that the city had neglected the river. When he was not in Washington advocating for the fair, he was chastising Spokane for having delayed so long in “displaying the most hidden magic of its best resource — which is this river.”

Magnuson was active in persuading legislators in both Olympia and Washington, D.C., to support the fair.

Interviewed in 1994, Eastern Washington’s congressional delegate, Tom Foley, then speaker of the House, admitted that when King Cole told him about the proposed world’s fair he was skeptical at first: “I was very polite about it — but my early impression was, ‘This is a really spacey idea. You’re going to have a world’s fair in Spokane? Sure.’” But soon he, too, was a believer.

“You know,” Foley remarked, “King is wonderfully persuasive.” (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

HOMAGE

June 14 | Riverfront Pavilion | 5 pm

A fashion show Inspired by Spokane’s blue collar roots and the legacy of Expo ’74, featuring live performance by pianist Archie Chen. In an exploration of Spokane’s industrial heritage, Homage challenges conventional perceptions of style and history. Drawing inspiration from Piet Mondrian’s geometric minimalism and Josef Albers’ chromatic studies, the collection navigates the delicate balance between tradition and innovation. Homage transcends the boundaries of mere fashion; it’s a critical reflection on Spokane’s identity and evolving socio-economic landscape.

2024 ECONOMIC FUTURE FORUM

June 16-18 | Davenport Grand Hotel | 11 am-4 pm

Join the International Economic Development Council for the 2024 Economic Future Forum. The event brings together visionary economic development professionals from across the globe to explore emerging industry trends, discuss cutting-edge technology and applications, and showcase innovative strategies to foster transformational economic development. This year’s forum will explore “Transformational Economic Development” and investigate how Expo ’74, Spokane’s community-changing world’s fair mega-event, continues to create new economic opportunities. Discover how innovative businesses, events, projects, technologies and workforce talent have revolutionized communities for the better. Learn more and register at https://spokane.iedconline.org/home.v

EXPO ’74 50TH ANNIVERSARY COMMUNITY

STAGE & VENDOR VILLAGE

June 15 | Riverfront Park Lilac Bowl | 11 am-4 pm

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

Experience a fusion of dance, performing arts, inspiring talks and performances from a range of community talents. Enjoy international cuisine, memorabilia, and historic and interactive activities. The stage will be adjacent to the Vendor Village, featuring local vendors, artisans and handcrafters. 11 am: Native Voices; 11:30 am: Les Sylphides Ballet; 11:40 am: Spokane Children’s Theater; 12:30 pm: Rock Club; 1:30 pm: Juneteenth Artist Selection; 3 pm: Cosmic Fantasy.

JUNETOBERFEST

June 15 | Riverfront Pavilion | 3-9 pm

Don your lederhosen and dirndl for traditional German bier, food, music and dance. 3 pm: Concordia Choir; 3:30 pm: Alpenhorn; 4:15 pm: Happy Wanderer; 5:15 pm: Oompa’s & Ma’s; 6:30 pm: Alpenhorn; 7 pm: Concordia Choir; 7:45 pm: Oompa’s & Ma’s.

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

Warren Magnuson (left), Tom Foley and David Rodgers (rear) MAC PHOTO

Discovering Mister Deedle

How a 93-year-old Navy veteran in North Idaho saw his mother’s forgotten children’s book finally published

BY CHEY SCOTT

It wasn’t until her two children had grown up that Margaret Morrison Roeth found enough spare time to craft the kind of beautifully illustrated tale that once would have fully captured Charles and Helen Betsy’s young imaginations.

Taking her paintbrush and pen to paper in 1948, the lifelong artist spun up endearingly quaint stories and illustrations for her original children’s book, Mister Deedle’s Tree House. The 50-page tome’s central characters, Peter and Peggy, and their imaginative playtime escapades were inspired by Charles and Helen Betsy’s own youth in 1930s Southern California.

Morrison Roeth never got to see her book reach readers’ hands, however, as it was rejected multiple times for publication when she pitched it in the early 1950s. Her beautifully hand-drawn illustrations — full-page scenes in an opaque watercolor palette of tomato red, orange, peach, black and shades of gray, plus scroll-like designs to frame and accent each page — were tucked away and largely forgotten for the next 75 years.

Until recently.

Thanks to a serendipitous encounter and the commitment of her now 93-year-old son, Charles “Chuck” Roeth, to see his mother’s work shared, Mister Deedle’s Tree House has finally made its debut. In May, a small Texas-based publisher released a softcover edition of the book, which is available to order online and through local independent bookstores like Auntie’s Bookstore in Spokane, the WellRead Moose in Coeur d’Alene, and others.

Roeth, a busy high school senior at the time his mother created the book, was initially introduced to the project more than a decade ago when his older sister, who went by Betsy, entrusted the original drawings and manuscript into his care.

“My mother finished the book in about 1948 and that was my last year in high school, and I didn’t really pay any attention my senior year to what my mother was doing — I was busy doing other things,” Roeth recalls. “The whole thing just passed me by.”

After graduation, Roeth served in the Navy during the Korean War. After completing his service and attending the University of California to study mechanical engineering, he eventually landed in North Idaho working in

the timber milling industry.

“My sister was an artist herself, and had the work that had been done just in a great big folder,” he continues. “And at one point she said, ‘Why don’t you take this and see if you can do something with it.’ So I did.”

At some point before giving her brother the project, Betsy and her daughter, Tirza Kaplan (to whom Margaret dedicated the book), started matching the original typewritten manuscript with each corresponding scene.

As Roeth and other family members continued efforts after Betsy’s death in 2013 to finally publish Mister Deedle’s Tree House in Margaret’s memory, they encountered many challenges.

“It was a fits-and-starts type of thing, and that went on for quite a while,” Roeth says. “Finally we were getting it along fairly well, but there is a lot to put into publishing a book in order to be done right.”

Their biggest hurdle was the same as Margaret’s: finding a publisher. Another was figuring out how best to convert her lushly detailed illustrations from large, square sheets of paper to a digital format.

Progress picked up suddenly when, over a year ago, Roeth’s wife, Jan, happened to meet Carrie Pierce, co-director of Morgan Pierce Media & Publishing, the publisher that finally welcomed Mister Deedle’s Tree House into its catalog.

“It was a women’s group gathering, and for some reason I moved over and sat down and met Carrie,” Jan says. “I don’t even exactly remember how the book came up, but I thought to myself later, ‘Maybe there would be a way that Carrie could come over sometime and just give us a few little hints here and there.’ And when she came over to start a few months ago, all of a sudden the book started to flourish.”

Pierce was stunned by what the family showed her.

“I couldn’t believe what I was looking at,” she says of Margaret’s artwork. “There’s so much heart in them, and the stories are so precious. It’s like a little time capsule to a kinder, gentler time, I think.”

She took the Roeth family on as clients, and fasttracked Mister Deedle’s Tree House to publication in about three months, less than half the time the process would usually take.

Peggy and Peter go on many magical journeys in Mister Deedle’s Tree House

“Margaret tried to get this book published in 1950, and it has been languishing since then. They had waited so long,” Pierce says. “After seeing the book that day, I called my business partner and I said, ‘You just won’t believe it — this incredible legacy of love.’ And so we talked about it and realized that we needed to really hurry and push this through.”

Mister Deedle’s Tree House is a fantastical series of adventures told across five chapters, beginning with Peter and Peggy’s introduction to the titular Mister Deedle, a distinguished but easily disgruntled gentleman who they imagine lives inside the trunk of a pine tree near their house.

Pretending they’ve been shrunk down to a miniature size, the children enter Mister Deedle’s magical world, where they soar through the air on the backs of red-breasted robins and friendly monarch butterflies until their mother calls them inside for dinner.

In one chapter, the children visit the kindly Aunt Kate’s home high up in the Andes Mountains and help save Honorio the llama. In another, their mother’s two porcelain Chinese figurines on the mantel come to life and take Peter and Peggy on a quick trip around the world to see a traditional Chinese festival, complete with a lion dance. Finally, the children decorate their beautiful Christmas tree, making sure each special ornament is placed just right before inviting all of their imaginary friends to come enjoy it and receive a gift.

Margaret Morrison Roeth’s two-dimensional artwork in Mister Deedle is simple, yet driven by emotion and filled with movement, with an overt sense of nostalgia evocative of the era when it was created. Her use of limited color and the sharply inked outlines in each whimsical scene feel reminiscent of both the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements of the early 20th century.

Both a graduate of the San Francisco Art Institute and the California School of Arts and Crafts in Berkeley, Margaret won various awards for her work and, according to her family, continued to practice art throughout her life.

“Oh, she’d be very happy,” her son says today about the book being finally completed. “I’m very happy.” n

Charles Roeth with the children’s book his mother created in 1948. CHEY SCOTT PHOTO

HEY! HO! LE-GO!

What Spokane-centric Lego sets should exist?

BY SETH SOMMERFELD

There are few toys with a higher approval rating than Lego (as long as you don’t poll parents who just stepped barefoot on an errant brick). While the Danish building block company’s sets have long been an A+ gift for kids (even if pricey), the past decade has seen Lego snap together a larger cultural empire that includes legitimately fantastic films (The Lego Movie, The Lego Batman Movie), loads more pop culture tie-ins (Marvel, Disney, The Lord of the Rings, even more Star Wars), and high-end sets targeted specifically at adults who still have that childish builder insider of them. In the past year, Spokane has welcomed both an official Lego Store at River Park Square and local shop Brick Buy Brick in the Garland District. With the traveling Lego convention Brick Fest Live swinging into the Spokane Convention Center on June 15 and 16, we figured it was time to dream up some Spokane-centric Legos that we’d love to build.

SPOKANE PAVILION

The solid chunkiness of Lego bricks might make trying to capture the spirit of the city’s most recognizable landmark a little tricky, what with its spiraling open air cables, but the existence of ferris wheel Lego sets suggests that it could be possible. If pulled off correctly, it could be a striking addition to the Lego Architecture series alongside more worldly landmarks like the Taj Mahal or Notre Dame de Paris (plus, unlike those wonders, you could stage minifigure concerts in a Pavilion set).

LILAC CITY BOUQUET

The Lego Botanical sets are a fun and oddly classy way to add actual non-wilting decorative flavor to your home with brick wildflowers, orchids, succulents and more. Obviously any list of potential Spokane Lego sets would be incomplete without an arrangement of lilacs to represent the Lilac City. If we wanted more local flowers to spruce it up, wildflowers like camas, yarrow and lupine blooms could flesh out the bouquet. Also, no more stressing out because you forgot to water your plants!

MADAME WEB FIREWORKS FACTORY SET

Is Madame Web a good movie? No. Is its climactic fireworks factory scene deserving of a Lego set? Nope. Is this entry just an excuse to find one Spokane-adjacent pop culture set because Lego would have to create a minifigure of Sydney Sweeney’s character Julia? Yes. (And also because any Euphoria set would seem even more inappropriate.)

REDBAND TROUT

If you’ve seen the Spokane Indians’ redband trout hat, you should be well aware that rad merch can be created from our city’s signature fish. A majestic full-scale model of our finned friend leaping out of the water would make an amazing display piece on any angler’s or conservationist’s desk (I know my dad would love one). I can already picture the Indians’ social media posts of Ribby building one to be his new BFF.

HOOPFEST WITH ZAGS MINIFIGURES

The early 2000s saw Lego Sports sets, where the company teamed up with the NBA to make minifigures of famed players like Gary Payton and Dirk Nowitizki and court sets where the little superstars could “play” basketball. Was it fun to try to play hoops with them? Not really! Fluid motion and Lego do not go hand in hand! That said, a collection of street courts to represent Hoopfest would at the very least look super cool in any sport-centric man cave. And while we’re here, why not make minifigures of Gonzaga hoops legends? I want tiny brick versions of Drew Timme and Rui Hachimura on my desk now n

Brick Fest Live • Sat, June 15 from 9 am-5 pm and Sun, June 16 from 10 am-4 pm • $17-$30 • Spokane Convention Center • 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd • brickfestlive.com

There are many Spokane things to build Lego sets around. JAMES RICHMAN, ERICK DOXEY, CHRIS ELAM PHOTOS

120 pages of fun in the sun!

120 pages of fun in the sun!

MAKE SUMMER COUNT MAKE SUMMER COUNT

Growing up, summer’s impending arrival meant making lists. At the start of every June, the wide-ruled notebook journals I furiously filled up throughout elementary and middle school became filled with items like “have a bike race,” “play at the creek” and “sleepover at Gramma’s.” Easily attainable goals for a rural country kid like me, who had lots of free time, endless access to nature, plus lots and lots of library books.

As I got older, I stopped making these super-long to-do lists, but summers here were still full of fulfilling fun: trips to Silverwood, going downtown to see the Fourth of July fireworks, sunny days on the beach at Lake Coeur d’Alene, my first concert at the Gorge, tent camping in the yard and so much more. I realize now how lucky I was then to have so much fun at my disposal. I still am — we all are — with such a rich variety of activities and events to enjoy all summer long right here in the Inland Northwest.

As this year’s Summer Guide proves, there are countless ways to make the summer of 2024 “count,” whether you take a scenic road trip around the region, hit one of the many outdoor concerts or music festivals, cool off in a nearby body of water, or simply relax with a good book at a local park or in your own backyard.

I’ve already started making my (mental) summer checklist and now — with this issue in your hands — it’s your turn!

— CHEY SCOTT, EDITOR

CONTENTS

FOOD & DRINK 4

KIDS & FAMILIES 14

ARTS 22

WATER 32

MUSIC 38

SCREEN 54

ROAD TRIPS 58

THE GREAT INDOORS 66

WHEELS 72

EXPO 50TH FUN 78

THEATER 90

SPORTS & RECREATION 98

SUMMER CALENDAR 102

SECTION EDITOR

Chey Scott

COVER & LAYOUT DESIGN

Derrick King

COPY EDITOR

Chris Frisella

LISTINGS EDITOR

Madison Pearson

CONTRIBUTORS

Eliza Billingham

E.J. Iannelli

Will Maupin

Hannah Mumm

Madison Pearson

Azaria Podplesky

Colton Rasanen

Summer Sandstrom

Nate Sanford

Carrie Scozzaro

Seth Sommerfeld

FOOD & DRINKFOOD & DRINK

It’s eatin’ season

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

Gardens are growing, grills are glowing, and the ice cold beer is flowing! Whatever your plans are this summer, you’ve got to eat. Thankfully, the Inland Northwest is stuffed full of opportunities to taste, sip, crunch, slurp and sample. No matter what you’re hungry for, you’ll probably find it somewhere nearby — if it’s not at a table, it might be out of a truck, under a tent or in the middle of a field!

FOODIES’ PARADISE

Every summer, the Inland Northwest transforms into an oasis for people who love food, and the season sees some of the most iconic, crave-worthy events of the whole year. Every Tuesday from May through August (except July 2 and Aug. 27), downtown Spokane hosts a haul of food trucks on the orange Howard Street bridge in Riverfront Park for Riverfront Eats, a celebration of the creativity, flavors and entrepreneurs of the Northwest’s food scene. Break away from the office and tuck into some shawarma or giant egg rolls or crazy good quesadillas.

Then, as always, Crave! Northwest turns Spokane Valley into Flavortown, USA, for three days (July 11-13). This year’s themes are “Comfort Food,” “Foods from Around the World” and “Fire & Smoke,” plus the always lit afterparty.

If huge parties aren’t your thing, you can still sample plenty of big flavors at smaller, community oriented events like Bourbon, Bacon, and Brews (June 22), the third annual, wildly delicious fundraiser benefiting Teen and Kid Closet in Spokane, a service to kids facing poverty or foster care. Sample spirits, beers and bacon-themed foods from local chefs and vote for your favorite in each category, all while providing kids in need with clothing and dignity. Also check out vendors at smaller festivals like the Post Falls Festival (July 12-14) or Hayden Days (July 26-27), which also features a huge pancake breakfast hosted by the Northern Lakes Fire Department.

Before the summer’s out, the Taste of Coeur d’Alene (Aug. 2-4) always features fabulous art, excellent food, elite microbrews and plenty of live music to dance the calories away. Spokane’s Tacos y Tequila celebrates the diversity of the Hispanic Latino culture in the Inland Northwest with authentic tacos, plus mezcal and tequila classes (Aug. 24-25). Then, Pig Out in the Park takes over Riverfront Park in Spokane during Labor Day weekend (Aug. 28-Sept. 2) for six days of a ridiculous amount of food and live music — we’re talking 130 free concerts and 35 vendors. Finally, the Liberty Lake Fall Festival (Sept. 15) takes advantage of the last few days of sunshine to usher in the next season of harvest and hoodies. MORE >>>

your fill — and then some — at Pig Out in the Park. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

FOOD & DRINK FOOD & DRINK

GO RURAL

What if, instead of heading downtown, your quest for good food and drink led you away from the city? That’s just the kind of adventure the Inland Northwest specializes in. On the second and third weekends in June, head to Siemers Farms on Greenbluff for their berry-licious Strawberry Festival (June 15-16 and 22-23), where you can pick your own berries, ride rides, peruse food and craft vendors, and enjoy live music. Then, join the Artisans at Dahman Barn in Uniontown to learn how to use locally grown chickpeas in South Indian Cuisine as part of their Culinary Tour of the Palouse series (July 12).

The end of summer always means the National Lentil Festival in Pullman (Aug. 17), which celebrates the mighty legume with music, parades, cooking demonstrations and, as always, the world’s biggest bowl of lentil chili. (They’ll give you the recipe, too — it has chocolate in it!) And if a midweek hankering for guacamole and a nice drive catches your fancy, don’t miss out on Taco Tuesdays at Bull Head Saloon (every Tuesday) in Four Lakes. All day $2 tacos, plus drink specials, are the perfect excuse to ditch the craziness of the city for an afternoon.

WINE

&

BEER TASTING EVENT

Historic Davenport Hotel | 10 S Post St

June 22 | 3-6PM

featuring local and regional wineries and breweries, live music, light snacks, engaging discussions, awesome vendors and more!

Come celebrate sustainability in style and don’t miss this exciting Expo event where great taste meets green practices!

There’s nothing better than fresh fruit, straight from the field.

KUCHEN SEASON KUCHEN SEASON

A petition to rebrand summer into something even more delicious

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

Rhubarb was always the first herald of summer in my childhood home. My mother had an unkillable plant in the northeast corner of her garden that died back every November, resurrected every April, and got broader and leafier every May. The leaves were poisonous, of course, but the bitter, red stalks were precious because they signaled my favorite season of the year: kuchen season.

Kuchen is a German word that just means “cake.” There are plenty of kuchens, as there are plenty of cakes. But to me, there is only one kuchen. Rhubarb kuchen. And “cake” doesn’t come close to describing this dish.

til I started writing this piece and asked my mother to send me the recipe — she told me it was from Shirley, my childhood next door neighbor, who got it from her German mother, Lillian.

Shirley was pretty much my de facto grandmother, so I’d say I was close. In addition to rhubarb kuchen, she and her husband, who we called Grandpa Dave, made sure we got grandkid perks like Big Red cream soda, homemade soups and backyard baseball lessons.

But, back to kuchen. At the first farmers market of the season, I grab a bundle of rhubarb and decide to start kuchen season off right. This is my first time making it alone in my new city, but the recipe starts simple enough — for the crust, cream together sugar, butter and an egg yolk, then add flour. “Moisten like pie crust, but use milk,” it says.

I like that it assumes I know how to moisten pie crust, until I realize I don’t. But I add a tiny bit of milk until I’ve got something like crumbly sand.

I whisk sugar, milk, eggs and vanilla together for the custard. My mom always went heavy on the rhubarb, so I go heavy on the rhubarb, too. Then I stick the kuchen in the oven, and the familiar childish impatience sets in.

In a rectangle dish, a bottom layer of crumbly crust gets topped with a luxurious, creamy custard that cradles chunks of soft, fresh rhubarb. If you know what’s good for you, don’t even talk to me about strawberries. This kuchen ain’t got ’em and doesn’t need ’em.

I thought this was my grandmother’s kuchen un-

Suddenly, that smell of custard and rhubarb pours into the kitchen. That’s it. That’s what I’ve been aching for. That’s all it takes to transition from a moody, temperamental spring to a committed, unabashed summer. It’s like sunshine bitch-slapped me into a kiddie pool of flip-flops and fresh-cut grass. I don’t even need to taste it to feel that relief. But obviously, I’m going to.

The kuchen is best when it’s cooled, but that never stopped me and my mom. I dip a fork into the pan and dig up a big scoop of warm butter, sugar and rhubarb. Welcome to kuchen season. n

A hunk of pure sunshine.

ELIZA BILLINGHAM PHOTO

FOOD & DRINK FOOD & DRINK

EAT, DRINK AND LEARN

The best thing about food is that it can engage your heart, soul, stomach and mind. Thankfully, there are plenty of opportunities in the Northwest to satiate your hunger for knowledge. Two different Food as Farmacy events in rural Idaho invite you to deepen your connection to your farmers and start considering food a kind of medicine. Take your kids to a burger night at Castle Rock Ranch (June 29) and learn about regenerative ranching. Or, explore the future of aquaponic greenhouses and the ancient art of salumi making at Genesis Mountain Farm in Sandpoint (July 13). Chances are, you’ll leave either dinner full of new facts and good food.

If traveling isn’t in your summer plans, you can still experience plenty of new international flavors right here in the landlocked Northwest. The Spokane County Library District is hosting educational snack afternoons (yes, you read that right) at the Moran Prairie, North Spokane, Deer Park, Spokane Valley, Cheney and Otis Orchards libraries called Making Snacks from Around the World. Teenagers from age 13 to 18 are invited to stop by and make new kinds of snacks, plus sample foreign candies and learn lots of fun food facts.

Or, join the Swedish Midsommar Celebration at Riverfront Park (June 22) to sample traditional Nordic food. You could also stop by El Mercadito, a Latin market on the last Saturday of every month, to learn some salsa, zumba or bachata while you peruse local Latin vendors and pick up some free, culturally appropriate produce if you’re having trouble restocking your pantry. Unity in the Community (Aug. 17), a multicultural celebration at Riverfront Park, also offers plenty of international food to try.

If you’re more interested in environmentalism and you’re over 21, join fellow enthusiasts and industry experts at Sip for Sustainability (June 22), a wine and beer tasting event at the Historic Davenport that celebrates Expo ’74 and its environmental stewardship theme. Learn about sustainable wine, craft beer, and how the beverage industry is advancing in eco-friendliness.

JUST BREW IT

Summer would definitely not be complete without a cold beer in hand. Or two. Or more. Thankfully, Northwest brewmasters have planned plenty of opportunities to celebrate their craft. But as every experienced drinker knows, it’s best to drink your liquor before your beer, so stop by Dry Fly Distillery’s Tour and Tasting event (June 27) to sample flights of Dry Fly spirits and support Spokane Preservation Advocates. Then you can throw back as many pints as you like (responsibly, of course).

Check out the second ever Post Falls Lions Brewfest at the American Legion (June 29), followed by the Coeur d’Alene Brewfest (July 6), a favorite that’s been running for seven years now. The Grainmaker Beer and Grain Festival (Aug. 9) at YaYa Brewing Co. in Spokane Valley, co-sponsored by LINC Malt, is also a regional destination, drawing some well-known names like Holy Mountain Brewing Co. and Ravenna Brewing Co. from the westside, and Varietal Brewing from southern Washington. Later that month, the Ales for the Trails celebration (Aug. 17) in Coeur d’Alene City Park raises funds for the North Idaho Centennial Trail. That same Saturday, barley fans meet for Joseph’s Grainery’s annual Baronesse Barley Harvest Day (Aug. 17), where drinkers can watch Baronesse barley being harvested as they sip on beers brewed with grain from that very field.

To close out the summer before heading into Oktoberfest season, Precious Things Fermentation Project hosts Among the Pines (Sept. 1), a community- and nature-oriented brewfest supporting Live Like Lara. The nonprofit honors the late Lara Gass, sister of YaYa Brewing’s founders, whose legacy continues to support a diverse array of worthwhile causes, from providing law school scholarships to improving food security. n

BASEBALL HAT GIVEAWAY NIGHT!

Tuesday, June 18th at 6:35pm vs.

Don’t miss it! The first 1,000 fans and all STCU Gold Glove Members in attendance will receive a FREE Spokane Indians Baseball hat courtesy of Pepsi and The Inlander! Plus, stick around after the game for Dairy Queen Circle the Bases!

FOOD & DRINK FOOD & DRINK

MARKET, TO MARKET’ ‘TO MARKET, TO MARKET’

COMPILED BY MADISON PEARSON

Need some fresh produce? A sweet treat? Something refreshing to drink? Our guide to this year’s farmers market season has answers!

MONDAY

HILLYARD FARMERS MARKET 3-6 pm

late June to late Oct. Northeast Community Center, 4001 N. Cook St., Spokane. hillyardfarmersmarket.org

TUESDAY

FAIRWOOD FARMERS MARKET 3-7 pm

mid-May to early Oct. Fairwood Shopping Center, 319 W. Hastings Rd., Spokane. fairwoodfarmersmarket.org

MOSCOW TUESDAY MARKET 4-7 pm

early June to mid-Oct. Latah County Fairgrounds, 1021 Harold St. fb.com/tuesdaycommunitymarket

WEDNESDAY

5TH STREET FARMERS MARKET 4-7 pm

mid-May to late Sept. Fifth & Sherman Ave., Coeur d’Alene. cdadowntown.com

KENDALL YARDS NIGHT MARKET 5-8 pm

EMERSON-GARFIELD FARMERS MARKET 3-7 pm, June to late Sept. IEL Adult Education Center, 2310 N. Monroe St., Spokane. market.emersongarfield.org

SPOKANE VALLEY FARMERS MARKET 4-8 pm June to late-Sept. CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place. spokanevalleyfarmersmarket.org

THE WAVY BUNCH NIGHT MARKET & STREET FAIR

Second Fridays from 5-9 pm, mid-June to Oct. Catalyst Building, 508 E Riverside Ave., Spokane. thewavybunch.com

SATURDAY

AIRWAY HEIGHTS SUMMER MARKET Second Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm, April to Sept. The Hub, 12703 W. 14th Ave. fb.com/AirwayHeightsSummerMarket

BONNERS FERRY FARMERS MARKET 8 am-1 pm late April to early Oct. Highway 95 and Kootenai St. bonnersferryfarmersmarket.org

THE DEER PARK MARKET

First Saturdays from 9 am-3 pm, May to early Oct. Perrins Field, 14 Arnim Ave. thedeerparkmarket.com

late May to mid-Oct. West Summit Parkway between Cedar & Jefferson Alley, Spokane. kendallnightmarket.org

SUMMER CLIMBING CAMP

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SESSION 1: JUNE 24TH – JUNE 28TH

SESSION 2: JULY 8TH – JULY 12TH

SESSION 3: JULY 22ND – JULY 26TH

SESSION 5: AUGUST 5TH – AUGUST 9TH

MEMBER: $350/SESSION | NON-MEMBER: $400/SESSION

REGISTER AT: WILDWALLS.COM

509-455-9596

KOOTENAI FARMERS MARKET 4-7 pm

mid-May to late Sept. Riverstone, 2151 N. Main St., Coeur d’Alene. kootenaifarmersmarkets.org

MILLWOOD FARMERS MARKET 3-7 pm

late May to early Oct. Millwood City Park, 9103 E. Frederick Ave. farmersmarket.millwoodnow.org

MOONSHINE ARTISAN NIGHT MARKET 5:30-8:30 pm

late May to late Aug. Commellini Estate, 14715 N. Dartford Dr., Spokane. commellini.com/moonshine

N.E.W. FARMERS MARKET 9 am-1 pm

May to late Oct. 121 E. Astor St., Colville. newfarmersmarket.org

RIVER CITY MARKET 5-8 pm

mid-July to mid-Aug. The Landing, 305 N. Spokane St., Post Falls. fb.com/rivercitymarketandmusic

SANDPOINT FARMERS MARKET 3-5:30 pm

early May to mid-Oct. Farmin Park, Third and Main. sandpointfarmersmarket.com

SPOKANE FARMERS MARKET 8 am-1 pm mid-June to late Oct. Coeur d’Alene Park, Fourth and Chestnut St. spokanefarmersmarket.org

THURSDAY

PERRY STREET THURSDAY MARKET 3-7 pm

May to Oct. Perry and Tenth, Spokane. thursdaymarket.org

FRIDAY

ATHOL FARMERS MARKET 2-6 pm

May to late Sept. 30230 Second St. atholfarmersmarketidaho.com

CHEWELAH FARMERS MARKET 11 am-3:30 pm mid-May to mid-Oct. Chewelah City Park. chewelahfarmersmarket.com

KOOTENAI FARMERS MARKET 9 am-1:30 pm mid-May to late Oct. Highway 95 and Prairie, Hayden. kootenaifarmersmarkets.org

LIBERTY LAKE FARMERS MARKET 9 am-1 pm mid-May to mid-Oct. Town Square Park, 1421 N. Meadowwood Ln. llfarmersmarket.com

MEDICAL LAKE FARMERS MARKET

First/third Saturdays 9 am-1 pm, June to early Oct. Lake St. between Jefferson and Lefevre streets. instagram.com/medicallakefarmersmarket

MOSCOW FARMERS MARKET 8 am-1 pm May to Oct. Friendship Square, Fourth and Main. fb.com/MoscowFarmersMarket

N.E.W. FARMERS MARKET 9 am-1 pm May to Oct. 121 E. Astor St., Colville. newfarmersmarket.org

NEWPORT FARMERS MARKET 9 am-1 pm early May to Oct. 236 S. Union Ave. Facebook: Newport Farmers Market

RATHDRUM FARMERS MARKET 9 am-2 pm late April to Sept.

Rathdrum Lions Club, 16114 N. Meyer Rd. fb.com/rathdrumcraftandfarmersmarket

SANDPOINT FARMERS MARKET 9 am-1 pm early May to mid-Oct. Farmin Park, Third and Main. sandpointfarmersmarket.com

SPOKANE FARMERS MARKET 8 am-1 pm

mid-May to late Oct.

Coeur d’Alene Park, Fourth and. Chestnut St. spokanefarmersmarket.org

SUNDAY

CLAYTON FARMERS MARKET 11 am-4 pm June to Sept. (except during county fair). Clayton Fairgrounds, 4616 Wallbridge Rd. Facebook: Clayton Farmers Market and Small Farm Animals n

KIDS & FAMILIESKIDS & FAMILIES LIES

From summer reading challenges to zooming along a treetop zipline, families of all ages and sizes have tons of options

BY E.J. IANNELLI

The summer months are ideal for getting out and about as a family, but spending quality time together doesn’t have to break the bank or involve Pentagon-level planning. Nor does it have to be a nonstop thrill ride (although that certainly doesn’t hurt). As you’ll see, simply reading together over the summer can help cover the cost of admission to one of the season’s most popular regional events.

CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE TOGETHER

When it comes to family activities, it’s hard to go wrong with professional fireworks displays, and the region’s Independence Day celebrations are guaranteed to bring the spectacle. The hard part is choosing which one to attend. Riverfront Park is a reliable go-to, with a whole host of family-friendly attractions leading up to the fireworks display at 10 pm. This year’s event also marks the grand finale to the 50th anniversary celebrations for Expo ’74, so there will be special community performances and an artisan vendor village as well.

The Sandpoint fireworks and parade hosted by the Sandpoint Lions Club is another great option if you’re looking to enjoy a range of activities prior to the fireworks. This summer, their theme is “Back to Our Roots,” which celebrates the area’s historic links to the timber industry. There’s a kids parade that begins making its way through downtown Sandpoint at 9:30 am. The main march follows a half-hour later. Then the festivities move to the City Beach, where you’ll find food, drinks, raffle ticket sales, games and free ice cream. The much-anticipated fireworks start launching at dusk.

There’s even a celebration that caters to families of sports fans. At Avista Stadium, the Spokane Indians are commemorating July 4 by taking on the Tri-City Dust Devils. Following the game is an augmented fireworks show commensurate with the holiday.

Also catch Independence Day fireworks in Coeur d’Alene, and many other outlying areas. MORE >>>

*Insured by NCUA. These are our ideas, you can use the money on whatever you want. Members must be over 18 years of age at time of application. Promotion only available to those who don’t currently have a checking account with Horizon Credit Union. Promotion not eligible for Youth or Business Accounts. Verification of residence location required upon membership application. Membership fee may apply. One offer per household. To qualify for the offered incentive, members must complete the following within the first 60 days of new account opening: 1. Checking account must remain open and in good standing for 60 days, 2. Member must complete a minimum of 15 debit card transactions within 60 days of the account open date, 3. Member must fund the account with a minimum deposit of $250 within 5 business days of account opening and 4. Member must accept and agree to electronic statement delivery within Horizon Credit Union’s online banking platform. Horizon Credit Union will make a one-time deposit of $200.00 into the qualifying member’s account within 60 days of all qualifications being met. Checking account must be open at time of $200.00 deposit. Horizon Credit Union reserves the right to modify or cancel the terms of this offer at any time without prior notice.

Celebrate the 4th with the fam in Riverfront Park. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

Local Craft Spirits

READING HAS ITS REWARDS

SPEND THE DAY IN CDA

For an evergreen family outing that lends itself to spur-of-the-moment planning, spend the day in Coeur d’Alene. There are scenic cruises of Lake Coeur d’Alene that depart Independence Point every day at 12:30, 2:30 and (until Sept. 2) 4:30 pm. The double-decker sightseeing boats make a loop around the scenic lake that includes shoreline homes, natural landmarks, wildlife and even some local trivia. Best of all, children ages 5 and under sail for free. Find tickets and other details at cdacruises.com

If you happen to visit the Lake City on a Wednesday, stop by the Kootenai County Farmers Market located on Main Street in Riverstone. In addition to dozens of vendors selling in-season produce, handmade crafts and hot food, the market also hosts the Power of Produce Club (aka the PoP Club). Geared for children ages 5 to 12, the club offers a free weekly activity that rewards participants with tokens to purchase fresh fruits and veggies at the market.

When it’s mealtime, Hudson’s Hamburgers is a reliable favorite for all ages. This classic family-owned burger joint has such a long and storied history that they were dishing up fast food half a century before the term even existed. (Remember to bring some cash!)

SPOILED FOR CHOICE

Reading is a family activity that you can make time for when you’re in the backyard, at the lake, at the park, camping or in the car en route to one of the many events in this Summer Guide. And our local libraries provide some extra incentive to make reading even more rewarding. For example, the Spokane Public Library’s Summer Reading Club enables kids and their grown-ups to earn free prizes for reading 15 days out of each month — even if they spend only a few minutes with a book, ebook, audiobook or comic on each of those days. The prizes include free books, ice cream or admission to events like the Interstate Fair (see below). Get details at spokanelibrary.org.

The Spokane County Library District is taking the reading to you this summer with its LINC mobile library. This year they’re adopting a Magic School Bus theme with related games and activities. You can find LINC at festivals, markets and other public gatherings. The SCLD also hosts Storytime in the Park in various locations around Spokane Valley every month. Find more info at scld.org.

If your stomping ground is North Idaho, the Coeur d’Alene Public Library has distinct Summer Reading Challenge programs for children, teens and adults. This year’s kids theme is “Under the Big Top,” and participants get prizes plus an entry into a raffle drawing for every completed four-, eight-, 12- and 16-hour milestone. Teens (ages 12-19) use punch cards to read toward free prize books, and adults mark their progress by writing mini-reviews. The program runs until Aug. 31, find a complete overview at cdalibrary.org.

Spanning five acres, Spokane’s Wonderland Family Fun Center features a ton of activities for the family that can’t agree on one or wants to try a little bit of everything. Better still, its mix of outdoor and indoor spaces makes it a viable option regardless of the weather. Wonderland is home to a go-kart track, bumper boats, batting cages, a laser tag arena, a rock wall, a two-story playhouse as well as an arcade with dozens of video games and games that dispense redemption tickets for fun prizes. There are even two mini golf courses: the outdoor 18-hole Pirate Island course and the indoor 18-hole Treasure Island black-light course. When the family works up an appetite after all that recreation, there’s pizza with assorted toppings available on-site and — for the 21+ adults, at least — a selection of bottled and on-tap beer. Admission to the park itself is free, and there are frequent bundle specials on select activities. Check out wonderlandspokane.com for more.

Kick back with a good book, and be rewarded for it!

A SIMPLE SUMMER

BY AZARIA PODPLESKY

f this was any other summer, I’d have a few trips planned. Maybe a long weekend in Seattle to catch a Storm game or visit the Seattle Art Museum. Or maybe I’d ride the train down to northern California to spend time with my grandparents, going to our favorite beach or trying a new hiking trail. But this summer, the chances of me getting out of town are slim, and it’s all my fault.

I had the bright idea to start grad school in January, working toward a master’s degree in strategic communication through Washington State University’s Global Campus. Don’t get me wrong, the program is great so far. The problem, again, is me.

On the MA in Strategic Communications page on WSU’s website, prospective students are told “Students select one, two or three-year tracks but it is recommended they take no less than five semesters to complete the program in order to achieve the best work-home-school balance.”

Silly me read that and said “Yeah, I’ll do it all in three semesters, thanks,” apparently forgetting that I work full time at a yoga studio while also freelance writing. So much for workhome-school balance.

While my yoga schedule is a little lighter this summer, I’ve been picking up more writing work, which means my days are still quite full between those assignments and my schoolwork. So this year, instead of sulking at home, being upset that I can’t travel as much as I would like, I’ve decided to embrace a simple summer.

In between homework and writing, I’m looking forward to spending my first summer in the Perry neighborhood, where I moved in November. I want to stop by the South Perry Farmers Market on Thursdays and take lots of walks around the neighborhood, stopping by as many Little Free Libraries as I can find.

Staying close to home means I can finally try some of the recipes I’ve been saving. I can also get some sun while studying in my backyard. I’m hoping to pop up to Green Bluff every now and then to pick summer fruits and spend a few afternoons paddleboarding on the Spokane River.

Is sitting at home studying as exciting as sitting in Climate Pledge Arena cheering on the Storm? Of course not. But that doesn’t mean I can’t still have an enjoyable summer. I’ll keep it simple this year and will surely appreciate the stillness when I’m on the go next year. n

Visit your local Little Library. Azaria Podplesky photo

NOW BOARDING: FLIGHT 509

Named for its hangar-themed design and its co-owner’s love of air travel, the brand-new Flight 509 offers similar amenities to Wonderland but in an indoor Spokane Valley location. Through its doors you’ll find a ninja warrior course, four lanes of mini-bowling, a 50game arcade area with Skee-Ball and other prize machines, a VR room, a multilevel ropes course, Spin Zone bumper cars, an immersive laser tag experience, a ball pit and lots more. There’s also a good-sized menu with several dietary accommodations at the Hangar Cafe. Kids as young as 3 years old can take part in select activities, and many aspects of Flight 509’s facility were made to exceed accessibility standards like ADA and augmentative and alternative communication. Learn more at flight509.com.

ALL’S FAIR

With hundreds of commercial and food vendors, national-level entertainment, carnival rides, petting zoos, tractor pulls and rodeo sports like bull riding and barrel racing, the Spokane County Interstate Fair (Sept. 6-15) is an annual can’t-miss event for families from around the Inland Northwest and beyond. This year’s theme is “The World is a Fair” and ties in with the ongoing Expo ’74 50th anniversary celebrations. Music headliners include country musicians Clay Walker, Eddie Montgomery and Ian Munsick along with hip-hop artist Flo Rida. And if you’re looking for some offbeat activities to do as a family, check out the regular kids pedal tractor races and the racing pigs on the North Lawn. All the details on this year’s festivities are at thespokanefair.com.

The Spokane County Fair is fun for all ages. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

ZIP TRIP

To safely indulge your family’s thirst for adventure, the region has a few zipline tours on offer, including Timberline Adventures out of Coeur d’Alene and Silver Streak in Wallace. The trained staff at Mica Moon Zip Tours makes it possible for you to soar above and swing through nearly 300 acres of tree canopy. The main zipline tour consists of nine runs that move from one treetop platform to another, with the final zipline run — affectionately known as Big Mama — measuring 3,500 feet in length. On top of that, this aerial trekking park offers Tarzan-style rope swings, rope ladders, ATV rides, a skybridge and even a treetop canoe ride. The tours near Liberty Lake are designed for experienced zipliners and newbies alike, and children as young as age 6 can take part in some of the activities. Learn more at micamoon.com.

THE PARK’S THE PLACE

How about a family activity that requires almost no planning, costs nothing and is probably just a short walk or bus ride away? All across the region, there are parks large and small: city parks, nature parks, hiking parks, grand parks, neighborhood parks, postage-stamp parks. And while you can bring a picnic or a frisbee, you might not even need that much. If you’re timing’s right, you just might bump into Storytime in the Park (see page 16) or Spokane Shakespeare Society performing the comedy As You Like It in Spokane’s Riverfront, Manito and Corbin Parks (July 18-Aug. 4). n

Join Us... at the party of the summer for a very worthy cause.

WHEN: Sunday, August 18, 5-8 pm

WHERE: Spokane Convention Center

THEME: Evening en Blanc -- all white, festive summer attire

®

You could even stumble upon a Shakespeare show in the park. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

AARTS RTS

Wherever your summer plans take you, the region offers many ways to explore art along the way

BY CARRIE SCOZZARO

Art has been part of the human journey since the beginning. We make it, view it, live with it and are impacted by it in countless ways. This summer, consider including art on your journey as you discover all that it has to offer.

ART AL FRESCO

If you’ve ever picnicked or otherwise dined “al fresco,” meaning in the open air, you know that something about eating outdoors feels special. The same can be said for outdoor art festivals, which offer a visual treat, typically with the added bonus of live music and food.

Terrain’s beloved annual outdoor street party known as Bazaar returns June 22 in its familiar spot outside River Park Square at Post Street and Main Avenue. Help Terrain celebrate 10 years of offering jewelry, household goods, wall art and more. This year’s free event features work from 133 local and regional artists and runs from 11 am to 8 pm. Details at terrainspokane.com.

In July, head to Coeur d’Alene, where Emerge is doing both an indoor and outdoor thing with its annual Block Party on July 12 (5 pm-midnight). The gallery will be packed with work from more than 100 artists (meet them at an exclusive ticketed event the night before), while outside, a nearby empty parking lot will be transformed into party central with live music, interactive arts activities, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden. Visit emergecda.com for more.

A is for August and for art. From Aug. 2-4, the 56th annual Art on the Green takes place on the campus of North Idaho College in Coeur d’Alene; visit artonthegreencda.com for details. The following weekend, Aug. 10-11, the Pend Oreille Arts Council’s 52nd annual Arts & Crafts Fair takes place in downtown Sandpoint. Rounding out the month is the annual Art & Glass Fest hosted on Arbor Crest Wine Cellars’ scenic grounds from Aug. 24-25, the perfect way to end your art festival-filled summer.

HURRY UP AND LOOK

Art lovers needn’t wait for an outdoor festival, exhibition opening or other art event to get their fix — there’s plenty of gallery shows already open (and some also ending soon!).

In Coeur d’Alene at The Art Spirit Gallery, check out “Convergence,” with mostly abstract works by Claire Akebrand, Christian Benoit, Jill Kyong, Jon Morse and Andrew Parker, as well as a col-

laboration with the Idaho Commission on the Arts, titled “Between Borders: Folklife Through the Coeur d’Alenes,” highlighting work by Panhandle-area folk artists. Both shows are open through June 30.

The Spokane Queer Art Walk in June includes group exhibitions at the Chase Gallery, Gonzaga Urban Arts Center, Locust Cider, Lunarium, Mom’s Custom Tattoo & Body Piercing, SAN - Spokane AIDS Network, Trackside Gallery and other venues. Visit spokanearts.org/queer-art-walk for more information about related events and opportunities to support and share in the LGBTQ+ community.

If you haven’t made the drive to Pullman to view three excellent (free!) exhibitions at Washington State University’s Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, get on it. There’s still time to see “Beyond Hope: Kienholz and the Inland Northwest,” “Uncovering Radical Artistic Practice in Unexpected Places,” and the Master of Fine Arts thesis exhibition. All three close on June 29; visit museum.wsu.edu for gallery hours and other details.

Shop directly from local artists at Terrain’s Bazaar. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

The Kienholzs’ “Spit in the Ocean” COURTESY WSU ART MUSEUM

AARTS RTS

BUZZIN’ AT THE HIVE

There’s always something going on at Spokane Library’s The Hive, an innovative space on East Sprague Avenue that’s home to a diverse and everchanging group of short-term resident artists. Sign up for a free workshop, like color theory basics with painter Jaime Rome Crain (June 25) or stop by any Wednesday from 4-7 pm, when the Hive welcomes the public to interact with its artists-in-residence. Visit spokanelibrary.org/hive for more.

ART FOR KIDS

Ever notice that little kids need little encouragement to splash paint or wiggle their bodies to music? Parents, plan to bring the family to Chewelah on July 13 for the annual Children’s Art Festival. Sponsored by the Chewelah Arts Guild, the free event takes place in the children’s pavilion, a large, covered space in the city park the guild helped create — talk about a community committed to the arts! Activities are still being planned, all of them guided by art teachers and guaranteed to nurture the inner artist in all. Visit chewelahcreativedistrict.org for the latest.

MAKING A LIST, CHECKING IT TWICE MAKING A LIST, CHECKING IT TWICE

An attempt to maximize my summer activities with over-organization

BY SETH SOMMERFELD

There’s so much to do in the summer that frankly it can be overwhelming, especially if your brain operates with obsessive organizational tendencies. If you were to glance at my desk at the Inlander office, you’d see an array of Post-it Notes littering the space with various to-do lists. I eventually black out the finished tasks with a Sharpie to achieve a sense of completion and relief. With that in mind, I figured it’d be worthwhile to jot down some summer essentials in order to feel like I’ve experienced a full 2024 summer by the time Labor Day weekend rolls around.

__ Head to the ballpark to watch the Spokane Indians take on the Mariners’ farm team, the Everett AquaSox (July 9-14), in the hopes of seeing Seattle stars of the future. (Past AquaSox legends include Felix Hernandez! All hail King Felix!)

__ Enjoy the region’s agricultural bounty by hitting up the local farmers and night markets. (In other words, I use this as an excuse to finally add fresh produce to my

overly microwave-dependent diet.)

__ See the glorious Furiosa on the big screen before theaters remove it for being a box office bomb. (Y’all realize if you continue to “wait till it’s on streaming” that we’re only gonna have crappy streaming-quality movies in a few years, right?)

__ Stock up on After Bite for when you foolishly let a friend talk you into camping or hiking and mosquitos inevitably eat you alive. (There’s a reason I have the soul of an indoor kid.)

__ Take advantage of Washington state having the best venue on earth and attend at least one show at the Gorge. (I’ve already got those Blink-182 tickets. Because work sucks, you know…)

__ Watch every Marvel Cinematic Universe movie released this year. (Can you believe there’s only one in 2024? Just Deadpool & Wolverine! Marvel has finally learned to stop over-saturating the market. … Wait… there are four next year? #$!%.)

__ Head to one of the numerous great spots for tennis in the area — Comstock Park, Hart Field, Ferris High School, Mission Park, Shadle Park High School — and hit some balls. (If for no other reason than to slow the spread of annoying pickleball cult colonizers.)

__ Take an extended road trip not on a holiday weekend in order to actually enjoy the Northwest’s roadside scenery without traffic issues. (I’m partially biased to Montana drives, with actual winding passes.)

__ Hop by the Central Library, check out a book, walk across the street and read the newly acquired tome while basking in the sun rays at Riverfront Park. (Bonus points if your grassy reading is done while waiting for one of the concerts at the Pavilion to start. A little Vonnegut x The Decemberists combo, anyone?) n

A home-run for fun!

DOXEY PHOTO

AARTS RTS

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Isamu Jordan was “a writer, artist, musician, teacher, father, and community leader,” says friend and fellow Flying Spiders bandmate, Rajah Bose. Known as Som to his friends, Jordan also struggled with depression and, in September 2013, ended his life.

That, says Bose, was the impetus behind an upcoming exhibition at Terrain Gallery honoring Jordan’s legacy, titled “Be An Art: Derivatives of Som Jordan” (Sept. 6-28).

Bose is collaborating with fellow Flying Spiders members Thuy-Dzuong Nguyen and Justyn Priest, as well as Jordan’s sons, Caleb and Osiah, and a selection of local and regional artists to develop a monthlong event that Bose says “explores the intersections of hip-hop and the lives of participating artists: musicians, poets, painters, photographers, rappers, writers, and filmmakers.”

“[Som’s] suicide made it difficult to process the personal and collective loss and to talk about it as a community,” he says. “This is why we are creating this show — to give permission to contemplate and create in his spirit, but also to acknowledge and honor how one life can reflect in so many other lives.”

Local artists remember Isamu Jordan at Terrain’s gallery in September. RAJAH BOSE IMAGE

AARTS RTS

SUMMER SCHOOL

Lifelong learning is just that — the sense that there’s always something new to explore. Treat yourself to creating, viewing or engaging with art this summer with any number of area classes and educational events.

The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture sets aside Tuesdays for gallery talks (free with paid admission or membership) to complement the museum’s current exhibitions. This summer, an Expo ’74 retrospective continues, as does the historical “1924: Sovereignty, Leadership and the Indian Citizenship Act.” The new show “Driving the American Dream: 1970s Car Design” opens June 15 and runs through Sept. 14. Summer exhibitions at the MAC also feature local artists Jeff Weir (through June 30) and “Woman, Artist, Catalyst: Art From the Permanent Collection” opens June 29 and remains up through next March. Visit northwestmuseum.org for more.

At Spokane Art School, Maria Andrus will teach you to embroider a colorful cat on July 11, while Susan Rohrbach takes you on a four-week discovery of birds starting Aug. 13. Learn to sculpt, paint, draw, work with color and more at the school, which has been building the arts community one class at a time for over five decades. Visit spokaneartschool.net for the complete summer class schedule.

If your idea of art school is also old school, get thee to your local library or bookstore, and peep the selection of art books available. We can recommend classics like Betty Edwards’ Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, John Berger’s Ways of Seeing, and any of the updated versions of Gardner’s Art Through the Ages. Check out Auntie’s and The Well-Read Moose, or peruse the used art book selections at such places as Page42 in Spokane, Brused Books in Pullman and Bookishly Happy in Coeur d’Alene. n

Independent, family owned farms – Just north of Spokane

FARM FRESH SCHEDULE

This schedule is meant to be a general guide to when crops are in

It is always best to check with the individual farms before you

Get artsy at Spokane Art School. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Z. Vanessa Helder’s

Rhythm”

WATER WATER

Between

lakes, rivers, pools, splash pads and waterslides,

there are endless ways to soak in all that water

BY HANNAH MUMM

We all know one of the great beauties of living in the Inland Northwest is our close proximity to nature. Anyone who’s floated the Spokane River with a cold drink in hand or jumped into Lake Coeur d’Alene after a day in the hot sun could tell you — we’re pretty lucky to live so close to all of this refreshing water. But it’s not just nature delivering all this water to the masses. Spots like Silverwood’s Boulder Beach, and parks across the region also offer opportunities for aquatic recreation this summer, and spoiler alert: They’re gonna be fun.

EXPLORE THE SPOKANE RIVER

Each year, the Spokane River becomes a destination for whitewater rafters and casual floaters alike. It’s no secret that there are all sorts of ways to experience Spokane’s namesake river, and local rafting company Wiley E. Waters offers a smorgasbord of ways to enjoy your time on the water.

For starters, Wiley E. Waters offers a “scenic float” ideal for beginners, families and chill group outings. The float launches in Peaceful Valley and goes through some Class II rapids dubbed the “splash and giggle.” It’s the perfect recipe for both fun and relaxation. Speaking of recipes, maybe you’re more of a foodie? Check out the company’s Wine & Dine tour, during which you’ll get to soak in the river’s scenic beauty while also snacking on a charcuterie board perfectly paired with locally produced fine wines.

But don’t forget Wiley E. Waters’s classic take on river rafting: the whitewater trip. Your tour guide will help suit you up in all the necessary gear before you raft your way along two thrilling sets of Class III rapids, one of which is aptly named “Devil’s Toenail.” After adventuring your way through the whitewater, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to relax, swim and watch for wildlife. You’ll have to get your raft on soon, though, because the Spokane River’s whitewater will only be “white” until the beginning of July. Learn more at riverrafting.net.

VINYASA WITH A VIEW

Nothing feels quite as luxurious as a combination of yoga, mimosas and Lake Coeur d’Alene. If Moira Rose of Schitt’s Creek fame lived in the Pacific Northwest, this would be her idea of a perfect morning. It’ll probably be yours, too.

Your ticket ($37.50) to the yoga and mimosa cruise includes a two-hour cruise, including a 45-minute onboard yoga session on the ship’s sunny upper deck. Your first mimosa is included, and assorted snacks, cocktails and even more mimosas are available for purchase. Lake Coeur d’Alene and CDA Power Yoga team up for the event most Thursday mornings (the cruise departs at 8:30 am) in July and August. Get tickets at cdacruises.com.

Cool off at a splash pad!

YOUNG KWAK PHOTOS

Float the Spokane River!

History Comes to Life!

WATER WATER

TRY SOMETHING NEW

Spokane’s Parks & Recreation’s Aquatics department provides countless opportunities and classes for anyone who wants to learn a new skill. As always, there are group and private swim lessons for folks of all ages, or you can register to join a novice swim team (ages 6-16).

RENT THE WATER

7/13 & 7/22

8/10 & 8/24

Ever wanted to try your hand at lifeguarding? Sign up for a lifeguard training course and start the perfect summer job. Or, experience AquaFit, a class blending aerobic, balance focused and strengthening exercises. It’s created for all abilities, and it’s sure to be a fun, refreshing way to get your heart rate up. Find Spokane Park’s complete schedule of summer aquatic fun at my.spokanecity.org/recreation/aquatics.

Sometimes you just have to leave all the noise behind and take to the water. Local companies like Fun Unlimited and FLOW Adventures understand just this. Whether you’re craving an hour or two on a kayak, or if you want to spend a full day tubing and tanning on your personal boat for the day, these two local water rental companies have you covered. Try renting a paddle board, kayak, jet ski, sailboat or even a pontoon boat. Visit Fun Unlimited in Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene, or FLOW Adventures in Spokane, and you may never want to come inside again.

Spokane Valley Partners is now Partners Inland Northwest!!

Since 1951 we have been quietly feeding and clothing our neighbors in need. Although our roots are still in the Valley, Partners INW services are having a positive impact for families throughout the region. Each year we have seen our services increase by as much as 70%. In 2023 with your help, we were able to feed over 106,000 people, clothe over 35,000 people, and put diapers on over 11,000 babies. To put that into perspective, feeding 106,000 people is equal to feeding one fifth of our county’s population!

In 2023 with your help, we were able to feed over 106,000 people

Great news for our community! Partners INW has purchased the Valley Ziggy’s store and will move our expanding operations to that 65,000 sq ft facility in 2026. This much larger building will allow our services to identify and meet needs throughout Spokane County and the Inland Northwest for decades to come. We need your support to serve a growing number of neighbors in need: www.partnersinw.org/donate

Partners INW Monthly Impact in 2024:

FOOD BANK:

▪ Over 200,000 pounds distributed monthly

▪ Over 8,000 served at our static food bank

▪ Over 2,800 served from our mobile food bank

▪ Over 2300 K-12 students receive weekend food kits

FREE CLOTHING BANK:

▪ 4 tons distributed monthly

▪ Over 3,100 served

DIAPER BANK:

▪ Over 60,000 diapers distributed monthly

▪ Over 1,200 baby butts clean, dry, and diapered

▪ Currently serving 15 counties in eastern WA and northern ID

WATER WATER

BOULDER BEACH JUST GOT EVEN BETTER

There’s a reason it’s such a hotspot to both tourists and locals alike. Silverwood Theme Park’s Boulder Beach boasts high-intensity waterslides, exciting kiddie areas and the most relaxing lazy river around. Best of all? This year, it’s expanding.

Emerald Forest is a nearly 4-acre expansion of Boulder Beach that includes a new restaurant, Rapids Grill, and private cabanas. And, inspired by the fish that inhabit our local Idaho lakes, Boulder Beach is putting a new kids’ area called Salmon Run on Silverwood’s map. It’ll feature eight new waterslides, ranging in length from 38 to 82 feet. Plus, there’ll be a new splash pad.

But the attraction Silverwood calls the expansion project’s “crown jewel” is Eagle Hunt, the west’s first and the United States’ longest dueling water coaster. The coaster with two lanes will power riders through highspeed saucers and shoot them up hills. You’ll even have the opportunity to race with friends as they slide through Eagle Hunt at the exact same time.

GIVE BACK

We all know and love the Spokane River. And we probably all know, too, that litter and pollution are huge problems for aquatic habitats nationwide. The Spokane River, unfortunately, is no exception. In 2023, for example, over 40,000 pounds of litter and trash was removed from the river’s waters. Efforts to clean up the river are largely thanks to Spokane Riverkeeper and its hundreds of volunteers — but there’s still work to do. Spokane Riverkeeper can host private group cleanup events, for which staff lead groups on an “informative riverside litter cleanup.” If you’d rather go solo or need more flexibility, request supplies for a DIY cleanup. The nonprofit will provide bags, gloves and trash pickers — just haul the trash away after you’ve finished.

Last and certainly not least, consider signing up for one of the Riverkeeper’s Spokane River Cleanup events, including one scheduled for the third weekend of September. Watch for updates at spokaneriverkeeper.org. Never has cleaning been so rewarding, or fun! n

Silverwood’s new “Eagle Hunt” water slide.

MUSIC MUSIC

Making the musical most of summer 2024

BY SETH SOMMERFELD

Everyone has their favorite summer sounds: the splash of a body entering a pool, the crack of a baseball bat, the sizzling of burgers on the grill, the chirps of crickets on warm nights, etc. Summer is the season of noise and activity and the twain meet via music, an omnipresent force underscoring our most cherished summer memories. To help you make more summer memories in 2024, give these musical offerings a try. Note that this section is primarily outdoor summer music, but you can find all this season’s shows, indoor and out, in our weekly Summer Guide Calendar, starting on page 102.

A

GAMBLE WORTH TAKING

With over 25 concerts on the books, 2024 is by far the busiest outdoor concert season in Northern Quest Resort & Casino’s history. Not that we’re complaining. After all, there’s a reason Inlander readers have voted the Airway Heights destination’s BECU Live as the Best Live Music Venue. And these aren’t your granddaddy’s rinky-dink casino concerts — we’re talking major stars.

Take the country side of things, where Kane Brown will follow up a packed 2023 Spokane Arena gig with a trip to Northern Quest on Aug. 15. The boots and cowboy hats will also be out for his genre compatriots Jordan Davis (June 22) and Midland (Aug. 24).

Hard rock also has a big presence on the Northern Quest slate with standouts like Falling in Reverse (Aug. 21), Five Finger Death Punch (Aug. 29) and Ice Nine Kills and In This Moment (Aug. 30) bringing in a bit younger rock crowd who might open up a mosh pit. On the more alt-rock front there’s also Cage the Elephant (June 30) and KALEO (Aug. 28).

For modern one-off flavors, the casino brings in Lindsey Stirling’s electric violin pop (Aug. 31), Pentatonix’s a cappella showcase (Sept. 11) and reggae funk via Michael Franti & Spearhead (Aug. 17). That’s not to say there’s not some nostalgia baked in the BECU Live offerings. For the classic rock crowd there’s Bachman-Turner Overdrive (July 24), Sammy Hagar (Aug. 13), Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo (Aug. 16) and Steve Miller Band (Sept. 23), while ’90s rock kids can delight in concerts from Bush (July 27) and The Smashing Pumpkins (Sept. 24). Heck, even pop vocalist Donny Osmond (Aug. 11) will venture out to Airway Heights.

No matter how the musical roulette wheel spins at Northern Quest, you’re likely to land on a good concert.

Northern Quest’s BECU Live 2024 season is its biggest ever. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

SANDY SUMMER

The Festival at Sandpoint has long been a Gem State gem, but for Spokanites it can be a bit of a tricky proposition. The hour-and-a-half drive is just far enough to make you question if it’s worth driving up and back in one day for a concert or if you might need to grab a room and stay the night. That’s a tough call during years when the festival lineup is merely pretty good… but 2024 is not one of those years.

Boasting the strongest slate of shows in a long time, there are many reasons to make the drive. Highlights include sun-blistering folk punk from Violent Femmes (July 26), a funky jazz and hip-hop evening with Trombone Shorty and Big Boi (July 27), pop née country rebel Maren Morris (July 31) and the hitmaking pop songwriter combo of Colbie Caillat & Gavin DeGraw (Aug. 3).

And all that’s before even getting to acts like Blues Traveler (July 25), a co-bill of Drew Holcomb & the Neighbors and The National Parks (July 28), Lee Brice (Aug. 1), Jason Mraz (Aug. 2), and a closing performance featuring the Sandpoint Orchestra playing along with How to Train Your Dragon (Aug. 4). Both musically and literally, it’s gonna be a hot summer on the banks of the Pend Oreille River at War Memorial Field.

The Festival at Sandpoint’s 2024 lineup is one of the best so far. YELLOW

MUSIC MUSIC

GORGING ON FREE MUSIC

Together, we can help solve for the a ordable housing crisis in Spokane & empower families to build strength through a ordable homeownership! Every hand helps build a better future! Help families build a ordable homeownership opportunities in Spokane County.

Hot Take: While it may be the main draw, the food offerings at Pig Out in the Park are mostly mid. There’s typically far more flavor to be found in the real reason to attend the Riverfront Park blowout: the live music. Drawing almost entirely on music from the local scene, the food fest offers six days of genre-spanning, free tunes to keep folks entertained while chowing down. With stages set up across the park, it’s a nonstop array of audio indulgence that’s the perfect sonic side dish to any meal. As the event over Labor Day weekend approaches, check pigoutinthepark.com for lineup updates.

PARK YOURSELF AT THE PARK

While the booming Northern Quest lineup may have siphoned off some acts that would’ve otherwise ended up at the Riverfront Park Pavilion, the small handful of shows at the downtown hotspot look to be quality. Things kick off with country singer Megan Moroney on July 12, but then things shift into a rock-only gear. Fans of experimental and prog rock should be thrilled with the double bill of Primus and Coheed and Cambria (July 20), the literary lyrics-first crowd will have verbose singalongs with The Decemberists (July 27), alternative oddballs Ween will bring their cult following to the park on Aug. 4, John Fogerty joins the fray for the older rock heads (Aug. 16), and things close out with a triple co-headlining bill of Switchfoot, Blue October and Matt Nathanson (Sept. 6).

Sure there’s food, but Pig Out’s music offerings are also great. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

PLEASE DON’T STOP THE MUSIC PLEASE DON’T STOP THE MUSIC

Live music makes summer worth waiting for

BY MADISON PEARSON

I spent many nights in my childhood bedroom staring at the ceiling with headphones pumping music into my ears. I was a voracious listener. I needed to hear everything to prove how much music meant to me. Any free time was spent thumbing through my mom’s garish blue CD holder.

My mom fostered my love of music from the beginning when she decided to raise me on ’80s hair bands and hip-hop. Every summer car ride was a concert. We would pop in one of her many CDs and perform “Rappers Delight” by Sugarhill Gang (yes, all 14 minutes of it) on nearly every road trip and blast Guns N’ Roses with the windows down, letting in the warm summer air as we belted “Paradise City” and “Sweet Child O’ Mine.”

She’d often recall her first concert, Def Leppard and Quiet Riot in 1983, with a tender smile on her face and eyes aglow with nostalgia.

When she took me to my first concert at the Knitting Factory (back when it was the Big Easy), I was 9 years

old. I stared up at my current favorite musical artists, Aly & AJ and The Jonas Brothers, and that was it for me — I was hooked on live music.

Every year once school was out, we went to concerts whenever we could. When we traveled to California, Texas and Florida, all of it was centered around a favorite artist’s performance.

Once I was able to make my own money and drive wherever I desired, I couldn’t be stopped. Since then, summers in adulthood have been filled with weeknight concerts, traveling cross-state for those pesky bands that only stop in Seattle, flying across the county for those pesky bands that only stop on the East Coast (and lots of foam earplugs).

my spot in the front row. The buzz of anticipation when my hand finally grips the barricade. Making friends out of strangers while waiting for the show to start. This is what summer is all about.

Of course I attend concerts throughout the entire year, but summer concerts are unmatched in energy and vibes. There’s nothing quite like the car ride to the venue with the AC blasting while listening to the opener’s songs, cramming their lyrics an hour before showtime. Or waiting in line for hours in the July heat to ensure

My summers spent standing on melting asphalt at the Gorge and crammed in tiny local bars on a weeknight are the ones I’ll look back on with the same tender smile my mom bears when recalling her 1980s summer concert escapades. I may regret the sunburns, but I won’t regret the memories any time soon. n

Long live live music!

MADISON PEARSON PHOTO

Live Music! Wednesday Nights in Kendall Yards

May 22nd through Sept 18th

MUSIC MUSIC

SIZZLING SOUNDS

While live music is certainly at the forefront during the summer season, the never-ending shadow battle to be the song of the summer rages on with a host of exciting new album releases. These days the only real contenders for summer’s top tune come from the pop and hip-hop realms, so that’s a big sector to keep an eye on. Upcoming standouts on the pop side include Sabrina Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet (Aug. 23; bottom album cover), while hip-hop bangers are on their way via Megan Thee Stallion’s Megan (June 28), Samurai by Lupe Fiasco (June 28), Denzel Curry’s King of the Mischievous South Vol. 2 (July 19), and Ice Spice’s debut album, Y2K (July 26).

But personal picks for song of the summer don’t have to fit into the most mainstream genre tastes. The country album calendar isn’t as packed as normal, but there are standouts like Lainey Wilson’s Whirlwind (Aug. 23) and another posthumous Johnny Cash album, Songwriter (June 28). For rock fans there are tons of options: Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats’

FESTS FOR THE REST

While there’s no shortage of musical happenings throughout the summer in the Inland Northwest, we don’t exactly live in a hotspot for music festivals. Sure, the Gorge has EDM fests and Watershed for the country crew, and the Volume Inlander Music Festival is coming back Sept. 13-14 (check out our story in the Music section of the Inlander this week), but there’s not too much beyond that.

That’s why it’s nice that the Moscow Mountain Music Fest exists. Now in its third year, it’s an incredibly chill single-day festival bringing musical spirit to the Palouse. The 2024 edition goes down on Saturday, Aug. 12 at the Latah County Fairgrounds. The lineup this go-around includes the Portland folk harmonies of and Bikini Drone, plus local talent and more. If you want a day trip full of music without a crowded fest vibe, a journey to Moscow Mountain might be just what

Moscow’s music fest is in its third year.

Cooling off in the water this summer?

It’s official: summer is here. School is out, the sun is shining, and temperatures are rising. And what better way to enjoy time with family than cooling down by a lake, river, or pool. This summer as you’re looking to beat the heat, it’s important to keep water safety in mind.

Dr. Cicely White, pediatrician at Kaiser Permanente Riverfront shares 5 tips to keep your family safe while enjoying waterside, summer fun.

1. Wear (the right) sunscreen. Not all sunscreen is created equal! Be sure to use a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection, is water resistant, and is SPF 30+. Reapply at least every 2 hours — more often if you’ve been in the water or sweating. As for what is the best sunscreen to use? Dr. White says, “I always tell my patients: the best sunscreen is the one that you like to use.”

2. Be on alert. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly. This is especially true around swimming pools, in which most drowning deaths for young children ages 1-4 occur. Generally, it’s best to never let a child swim unattended.

3. Pay attention to hydration. It can be especially easy to get dehydrated in hot weather. “Be sure to keep kids drinking, even just by taking small sips, or offer waterfilled snacks, like watermelon,” suggests Dr. White. “Electrolyte drinks can help replenish important minerals like sodium, calcium, and potassium.”

4. Prevent cold water shock. In early summer, lakes and rivers can be drastically cooler than the air. Submerging yourself suddenly in a cold body of water when the air is warm can trigger involuntary physical responses like loss of breath, impaired thinking, and increased blood pressure. Instead of jumping into cold water, slowly and gradually enter, giving your body time to adjust.

5. Learn basic safety skills. Despite the best-laid plans, accidents can still happen. “An easy option is to pack a first aid kit for your outing and know how to use what’s inside,” adds Dr. White. If you want to go the extra mile, learn CPR. At a pool, locate any rescue equipment, like a life ring. And before even venturing out, it’s a good idea to teach kids how to swim or refresh skills with a bit of practice.

Getting outside and into the water is a family-friendly way to enjoy the summer while keeping cool. With these tips, you’ll make sure everyone has a fun — and safe — adventure.

Huckleberry picking

Play a floating golf green. Explore a massive theme park. Stay in amazing accommodations. Visit luxurious spas. Take a lake cruise. Shop the downtown. Relax in a park. Ski epic powder. Play in a casino. Eat like a king. Zipline. Wake surf. Sail. Hike. Ice skate. Fish. Dance. Visit.

coeurdalene.org

LAKE

LAKE ROOSEVELT

A lighter summer schedule means more time to watch movies

BY AZARIA PODPLESKY

Summer is the perfect time for film buffs, because watching a movie can be an indoor or outdoor activity, providing a chance to enjoy the cool summer evenings or to escape the heat or smoke. Grab a picnic blanket and head to a screening at your local park (or drive-in) or bask in an air-conditioned theater while catching the latest summer release. All those movies you’ve added to your to-watch list? Now is the time to cross them off. Read on for tips on making this summer the most cinematic season yet.

Have a locally made movie marathon this summer, and include Dreamin’ Wild, a true Inland Northwest story! COURTESY ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS

GARLAND GOODIES

The recently reopened Garland Theater has a stacked screening schedule this summer. On June 15, enjoy a triple feature of The Goonies, American Graffiti and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. As part of Pride month in June, the Garland also shows To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar on June 17. Meanwhile, One Love and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire open on June 21.

Among other highlights, The Land Before Time begins a three-day run on July 17, and Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken plays July 31 through Aug. 2. There are also free showings throughout the summer for members of the theater’s Movie Club. For complete listings — including info on the theater’s annual free summer movies for kids (every Wed-Fri at 11 am through Sept. 20) — visit garlandtheater.org.

SHOPPING AND CINEMA

Enjoy an evening of free, all-ages fun at the Artisan Night Market and Moonlit Movies at Commellini Estate. Peruse goods from local artisans during the market, which runs Wednesdays from 5:30-8:30 pm, then enjoy a movie at sunset, around 9 pm. This summer’s movies are Father of the Bride (June 19), the original Jumanji (June 26), Frozen (July 10) with costumed versions of Anna and Elsa in attendance, The Goonies (July 24), Close Encounters of the Third Kind (July 31), Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One (Aug. 7), UP (Aug. 14), Charade (Aug. 21) and American Graffiti (Aug. 28). More info at commellini.com/moonshine.

LET’S GET LOCAL

The longer days of summer make for a perfect opportunity to brush up on your local cinema knowledge. Watch a few of these Inland Northwest-made films back-to-back for a true movie marathon, or space them out over the summer.

This non-exhaustive list starts with Benny and Joon, of course, which celebrated its 30th anniversary last year, and Vision Quest, which turns 40 next year. The latter Matthew Modine-led movie was filmed at several local high schools, the Bigfoot Tavern (Madonna’s scene, specifically) and Spokane Falls Community College.

There’s also Smoke Signals, written by Sherman Alexie and based on his short story collection The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven, which was shot in Riverfront Park and on the Coeur d’Alene Reservation. At Middleton brought Vera Farmiga and Andy Garcia to Gonzaga, while Camilla Dickinson, based on the Madeleine L’Engle novel of the same name, turned Spokane into New York City.

John Carpenter’s The Ward found Amber Heard fighting a vengeful figure at Eastern State Hospital in Medical Lake, while Home of the Brave stars Samuel L. Jackson, Jessica Biel, Brian Presley and Curtis Jackson as Army National Guard soldiers struggling to ease back into civilian life in Spokane after serving in Iraq.

Mozart and the Whale, based on the memoir of the same name by Jerry and Mary Newport, brought Josh Hartnett and Radha Mitchell to Riverfront Park, Gonzaga University and Cat Tales Wildlife Center. In Knights of Badassdom, Ryan Kwanten, Steve Zahn, Summer Glau and Peter Dinklage ran around the region as live action role players trying to defeat a succubus. Lonely Hearts, starring Jared Leto, Salma Hayek, John Travolta and James Gandolfini, was primarily filmed in Florida, though the Historic Davenport Hotel makes an appearance.

Finally, there’s also the more recent Dreamin’ Wild, starring Casey Affleck, Zooey Deschanel and Walter Goggins, which tells the story of local musicians Donnie and Joe Emerson, whose self-produced and self-released debut album became an international sensation decades after its release.

Rediscover Summer at

Moonlit Movies at Commellini Estate. COURTESY PHOTO

AT THE DRIVE-IN

Looking for simple, easy fun this summer? The Auto-Vue Drive-In Theatre can help. Head to Colville, where the theater — which has shown movies since 1953 — is located, stock up on your favorite snacks, and tune your radio dial. Voila! A family friendly night to remember. As of this writing, the only upcoming showing Auto-Vue has announced for later this summer is Inside Out 2 (June 14-16) so check the drive-in’s Facebook page for updates.

MOSCOW MOVIES

Moseying to Moscow this summer? Catch a film at the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre while you’re in town. There are two showings of Jurassic Park on June 23, followed by the Johnny Depp-led Ed Wood on June 25. A Don Hertzfeldt double-feature of It’s Such a Beautiful Day and Me screens June 27. And, as part of Kenworthy’s Cinema Classics series, High Noon plays on the big screen on June 28.

The Moscow Film Society employs the space for screenings of Pulp Fiction on June 26, Fargo on July 3, Bound on July 9, The Silence of the Lambs on July 17, Thelma and Louise on July 24, and Goodfellas on July 31.

The Kenworthy has plenty of family friendly film events this summer, too, via its Summer Family Matinee Series (1 pm screenings). Catch Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse on June 1819, followed by Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse on June 20. Then, it’s Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs on June 25 followed by Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 on June 26. Lyle, Lyle Crocodile completes the June slate on June 27 (with more films TBA for the rest of summer). Finally, the Kenworthy’s Farmers Market Cartoons, a series featuring kid-friendly animated shorts, returns every Saturday through Aug. 31 from 8 am to noon. Find the historic theater’s complete schedule at kenworthy.org.

DRAGONS IN SANDPOINT

On Aug. 4, the Festival at Sandpoint (check the music section on page 39 for the full rundown on this year’s fest) ends on both a musical and cinematic note with How to Train Your Dragon - In Concert. The 2010 DreamWorks Animation film follows a Viking teen named Hiccup, who lives in a town plagued by dragons. In an attempt to prove himself as a true Viking, Hiccup takes down a rare Night Fury dragon, which has been

injured. Hiccup befriends the dragon, who he names Toothless, and the pair work together to save both communities while also demonstrating that humans and dragons can peacefully coexist. This special showing of How to Train Your Dragon is accompanied by a live rendition of composer John Powell’s Academy Award-nominated score as performed by the Festival at Sandpoint Orchestra (featuring more than 70 Northwest musicians) and conducted by the Spokane Symphony’s Morihiko Nakahara. Learn more at festivalatsandpoint.com.

PARK IT

Smoke season allowing, outdoor movies are a summer classic. This summer, Spokane Valley Parks and Recreation Department will host its Outdoor Movies in the Park series at Mirabeau Point Park. Elemental is up first on July 19 followed by Ratatouille on Aug. 9. Movies begin at sunset, but arrive early for free games and activities beginning at 6:30 pm. Also, just over the state border, the Coeur d’Alene Police Department is hosting Movies in City Park on July 13 and 27 and Aug. 10 and 24, with titles to be announced.

CHECK IT OUT

Have a library card? Then you have access to thousands of films and TV series from around the world through perhaps the most underrated streaming platform, Kanopy. From drama, comedy and world cinema to horror, LGBTQ+ cinema and animation, Kanopy has something for every interest. That ranges from classics like Some Like It Hot and Seven Samurai to a robust selection of A24 features. There’s even a curated collection for children called Kanopy Kids. Movies are rented via digital tickets, which don’t roll over month to month, so watch as much as you can.

COMING SOON

Summer is always a season for big movie releases, and this year is no different. Coming soon to theaters near you are Inside Out 2 (June 14), Kinds of Kindness, the latest from Poor Things director Yorgos Lanthimos (June 21), A Quiet Place: Day One (June 28), Despicable Me 4 (July 3), the Mia Goth-led horror of MaXXXine (July 5), the theatrical prison drama Sing Sing (July 12), Deadpool and Wolverine (July 26), SIFF and Sundance favorite Dìdi (July 26), the romance of It Ends With Us (Aug. 9), M. Night Shyamalan’s latest Trap (Aug. 9), Zoe Kravitz’s thriller directorial debut Blink Twice (Aug. 23), Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice (Sept. 6) and Transformers One (Sept. 20), among many others. n

One of few drive-in theaters still operating is Colville’s Auto-Vue. DEREK HARRISON PHOTO

Inside Out 2 is one of many new summer 2024 movies.

Places to go when you want to get away this summer

BY WILL MAUPIN

Our little corner of the world is about as crammed full of diverse terrain and scenery as is possible, from the lush forested slopes of the Selkirks, Bitterroots, Blues and Rockies to the near-desert expanses of the Columbia Basin. We have raging rivers and placid streams connecting a landscape pockmarked with lakes from big to small. And it’s all within a short drive from our front door. So get out there and enjoy it, without having to worry about getting too homesick along the way.

LOOP DE LOOP

While the Spokane and Coeur d’Alene area is located on the southernmost edge of the Selkirk Mountains, the range’s majesty only increases as one heads north into its heart which extends deep into British Columbia. The International Selkirk Loop is a 280-mile round trip tour through the scenic crossborder portion of the Selkirks.

Starting at Sandpoint or Newport in the south, the loop takes travelers through some of the range’s dramatic valleys and alongside its impressive peaks north to Nelson, B.C. and the West Arm of Kootenay Lake. Much of the eastern stretch of the loop passes through a portion of the 1,000-mile-long Rocky Mountain Trench, which provides phenomenal views of both the Purcell Range and the Selkirks. Peaks in this area rise dramatically and steeply thousands of feet above the valley floor.

With an approximate driving time of seven hours, the trip is possible in one day but tailor-made for a weekend getaway. There’s plenty of scenery to behold from the road, but the loop is made complete by taking advantage of the many detours, stops and side trips along the way.

The hip resort towns of Sandpoint and Nelson are ideal for overnight stays, with their wide range of gastronomical and cultural offerings that contrast with the otherwise rugged natural experience. Watersports on the expansive Kootenay Lake and hiking in Washington’s Colville National Forest or British Columbia’s West Arm Provincial Park let visitors truly get out into the mountains themselves. More information on amenities, activities and events along the way, as well as maps and links to lodging, can be found at selkirkloop.org.

QUIRKY SMALL-TOWN CHARM

Annual fairs and festivals are a slice of Americana common to small towns across the country. There’s nothing wrong with parades, funnel cakes, car shows and kettle corn, but some towns in our region have taken those staples and put their own unique spin on things. First up is the Metaline Falls Bigfoot Festival, which runs June 15 and 16 deep in the forested mountain habitat of the legendary Sasquatch. August 17 brings a feast to Pullman with the National Lentil Festival, celebrating one of the Palouse’s most prized crops. Summer wraps up in Odessa with Deutschesfest from Sept. 19-22, which honors the early German-Russian settlers to the area.

WINE PAIRINGS

For wine enthusiasts, Walla Walla is always worth a trip. Italian immigrants first planted grapes in the area in the 1850s, but it wasn’t until 1984 that the Walla Walla Valley AVA was established. In the few decades since, the number of wineries in the area has exploded to more than 130. If you’re looking for a reason to go beyond the exceptional cabernet sauvignon, syrah and merlot available, Walla Walla’s cultural scene comes to life during the summer months. The Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival runs through June 29 with events at wineries and venues around the valley and cinephiles can scratch their itch for short films at the Walla Walla Movie Crush from July 5 through 7.

PLAY OUTDOORS BUT SEE US

Head north of the border for scenic views in Kaslo, British Columbia. MORE >>>

King Of The Hill

The most coveted ski-in/ski-out homesites at Schweitzer showcase stunning panoramic views, plus direct access to unsurpassed skiing, biking and mountain adventures.

Located within walking, biking and skiing distance to the Village, the last 12 spectacular homesites in Crystal View’s final phase will be offered in July.

For additional information on how you can create your consummate mountain retreat, please contact John Calhoun at 435-640-7757 or jcalhoun@smpdevelopment.com.

Don’t miss this chance to treat your family royally.

DISCLAIMER: Schweitzer resort amenities are open to the public and are not included in homesite purchase. All rendering images, illustrations, features, and information presented in this publication are conceptual and used for illustrative purposes only. They do not accurately represent the features of any homesite configuration or specific condominium unit. Everything presented is subject to change or elimination without notice. The description of the property and the project is provided for information only, and is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy real estate. Obtain the property report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal Agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property.

Love At First Sight

Schweitzer Village Living.

5 Needles #318/#319

All new fully-furnished residences reward you with astonishing views of Lake Pend Oreille, Cabinet Mountains and dramatic ski runs. Dazzling 2-bedroom, 2-bath, corner residence and separate studio residence that functions as a lock-off.

There’s also a dramatic wrap-around deck for entertaining, plus two enclosed parking spaces for ultra convenience.

5 Needles #415

Prepare to be captivated. This soaring two-story residence boasts prized ski run views through a 28-foot window wall crowned with a beamed ceiling. Two bedrooms, three baths, plus a large open loft and spacious outdoor deck. Professionally curated furniture packages available.

Lodge amenities for all residences include spa pools, owners’ lounge, fitness facility and ski lockers.

Set your sights on Schweitzer living. Get full details by contacting John Calhoun at 435-640-7757 or jcalhoun@smpdevelopment.com

2024

SESSION 1

Junior Camp - AM (Ages 8-12)

SESSION 2

July 8th-12th

9 am-12 pm $190

Junior Camp - PM (Ages 8-12)

Junior Camp - AM (Ages 8-12)

July 15th-19th

9 am-12 pm $190

July 8th-12th

1 pm-4 pm $190

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

1 pm-4 pm $190

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

NORTH IDAHO’S MINING HERITAGE

Wallace declares itself to be the center of the universe — specifically a manhole cover at the corner of Bank and Sixth Streets — and while that claim may be dubious, it’s certainly the center of North Idaho’s prolific mining region of the Silver Valley. The town itself is a historic landmark with its entire downtown area listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with nearly 500 buildings dating back to the 1890s. That preservation has left Wallace looking much like it did during its turn-of-the-century boomtown days when it was a hotbed of labor strikes brought on by the mining and railroad industries and vice in the form of countless brothels and saloons.

Around the area, visitors can book tours into area mines through The Sierra Silver Mine Tour or Crystal Gold Mine The area’s railroad history is on display at the 15-mile Route of the Hiawatha bike trail in nearby Mullan. While some towns in the Silver Valley like Wallace and Kellogg have pivoted to a post-industrial economy, many others did not. Once formerly bustling and rowdy mining towns just a short drive from Wallace, Burke and Murray stand now as nearly ghost towns and illustrate the economic and demographic changes to the region since the mining industry began to contract in the mid-20th century.

DRIVING BACK IN TIME

Large swaths of the Pacific Northwest from western Montana to Oregon’s Willamette Valley were dramatically altered 15,000 to 13,000 years ago when cataclysmic glacial outburst floods broke free from glacial Lake Missoula and thrashed their way across the Columbia Basin on their way to the Pacific Ocean. These floods scoured the landscape and left in their wake the dramatic coulees and the channeled scablands — a type of terrain found at this scale nowhere else on Earth, with its closest cousin found on Mars.

The Ice Age Floods Loop is a 142-mile drive around Central Washington, from Coulee City in the east through Quincy and Wenatchee before returning over the Waterville Plateau. Sights along the loop include Grand Coulee and Dry Falls, massive out-of-place boulders known as glacial erratics left behind by retreating glaciers, the Columbia River and the towering columnar basalt framing its canyon.

A copy of Roadside Geology of Washington, on shelves at Auntie’s Bookstore for $26, is an invaluable resource to help understand what you’ll see along the trip. Find a map of the route at route97.net/ ice-age.

KID FRIENDLY CAMPING

Heyburn State Park is just enough nature without all of that middle of nowhere. Located along the shores of Chatcolet and Benewah lakes, just south of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Heyburn is only an hour drive through the scenic Palouse from Spokane. Kid-friendly activities include dips in the calm lake waters or a ride along the largely flat and fully paved Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes. Not to mention it is one of only five Idaho State Parks with a playground. If you’re able to extend your time away from the city just a bit longer, consider the winding and forested return trip up the east side of Lake Coeur d’Alene, and don’t forget to stop at Harrison Creamery and Fudge Factory along the way. n

Descend into a silver mine outside Wallace. CHEY SCOTT PHOTO

OUTSIDE FOR A WEBSITE OUTSIDE FOR A WEBSITE

I’ll be trading my laptop for a camera and road trips to visually document our region for Wikipedia

BY WILL MAUPIN

The long days of summer may seem to drag on forever. Then, out of nowhere, it’s almost October and the nights are outpacing the days.

Summer is a time to be outside and take full advantage of the sun’s lasting light. Fortunately for me, it’s also the time of year when my work responsibilities relax. My laptop’s harsh blue light can easily be traded for the warm natural glow.

Which is why it may seem strange to say that I’m making my summer count by editing Wikipedia. No, not wasting my days in an apartment behind closed blinds, hunched over a laptop typing away. I’ll save that for later.

I mean walking around Spokane taking photographs of our historic districts. Did you know there are 15 such districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places within city limits?

Other days I’ll hit the road for a trip through small towns and communities around the area.

I’ll never forget the day in August 2022 when I looped north through Chattaroy, Milan, Elk, Deer Park, Denison, Tumtum and Suncrest with a cam-

era in hand. Not to mention places that no longer exist, like the ghost towns of Buckeye and Hazard.

Many of these locations had a Wikipedia page before I made that trip, but few were longer than the paragraph above, and even fewer had photos to provide a sense of place.

For a city of its size, Spokane has a robust community of people working to add knowledge of our region to Wikipedia. But there’s always room for more, and that’s the great thing about Wikipedia: Anyone can join in.

It doesn’t have to be like writing a college research paper, poring over sources and learning how to cite them. Over the past few years that I’ve been working to document the geography and history of the Inland Northwest, one notable building or town at a time, I’ve found that it’s actually a ton of fun.

Wikipedia exists in the online sphere, but it’s led me away from my laptop and out the door as much as anything else, and I’m looking forward to the roads it leads me down once again this summer. n

Yes, this photo really is on Elk, Washington’s Wikipedia page. WILL MAUPIN PHOTO

Avoid the heat and smoke this summer while taking advantage of the many air-conditioned activities across the region

BY COLTON RASANEN

Summer is stressful. Between incessant heat that threatens to melt you into a puddle, the annual and pervasive wildfire smoke that smogs the air and clogs your lungs, and the swathe of insects out in full force to harass the public, going outside in the summer can be a dangerous game. Fortunately, you don’t have to go outside at all, or at least you don’t have to stay outside for any significant period of time. There are far too many things to do in the summer without leaving the comfort of an air-conditioned space. So whether you decide to stay at home to binge your favorite shows and dance around like no one’s watching, or to visit your local libraries and museums to learn something new, this section is sure to include something to pique your interest within the confines of four walls.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

Would you rather explore the ocean or outer space? What if we said you could do both, all while inside an air-conditioned environment? All you have to do is visit one of Spokane’s coolest museums, Mobius Discovery Center.

On July 17, the museum is hosting its annual Shark Day! during which educators demonstrate the dissection of a real shark. And unlike most museum activities, this one is hands-on, meaning attendees might have the opportunity to even touch said shark. The fun doesn’t stop there, as different shark-themed activities and other hands-on fun is planned throughout Mobius for the event.

Starting in July and lasting through August, Mobius is hosting Planetarium Thursdays Each week, attendees can witness outer space through the lens of the Mobius Mobile Planetarium, a 360-degree experience that aims to inspire a better understanding of the world — and universe — around us. Tickets for these shows are $3 for members and $4 for nonmembers.

Both of these events are first come, first served, so make sure you plan accordingly if you’re interested. Mobius is open regularly throughout the summer, too, so if you can’t make it for an event, you can still show your kids the serendipitous nature of science in action. (Maybe you can even take the newly opened Post Street Bridge to get there.) Learn more at mobiusdiscoverycenter.org.

Go interstellar at Mobius. COURTESY MOBIUS DISCOVERY CENTER

ESCAPE THE HEAT

While you’re already putting effort into escaping the heat, why not add another level of evasion at Think Tank Escape Rooms in downtown Spokane. Recently voted by Inlander readers as the region’s Best Escape Room in our annual Best Of poll, the family-owned space has a lot to offer.

There are a handful of super immersive, story-based puzzles for participants to think themselves out of, like Mayan Doomsday, where you’re trying to prevent the end of the world, or Space Mission: Guardian, searching for a cure for a mystery pathogen ravaging earth’s population. Plus, a new apothecary-themed room is set to open soon for those who’ve already breezed past Think Tank’s existing experiences. Get the details at thinktankescaperooms.com.

LEARN A HOBBY

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about summer over the years, it’s how much freetime there seems to be. Longer, sunnier days and nights means there’s more time before or after a long day of work to explore the many other things you may be interested in. So take the time to start up or learn a new hobby. This can be done on your own through the magic of the seemingly infinite amount of resources available via YouTube and elsewhere online. But for those who need a little more guidance, consider these few ideas.

Ritters Garden & Gift is hosting a June 22 class during which attendees can learn the joys of pressing flowers into a book to preserve a beautiful, fleeting moment in time. Plus, folks will be able to use flowers from Ritters’ nursery, so they don’t even have to traverse the wilds to collect their own.

For those who’d rather write books instead of stuffing dead plants into them, a writer’s workshop happens the same day at the Coeur d’Alene Public Library. Taught by Kim E. Morgan, attendees learn to journal, create haiku poetry and even decipher dreamscapes.

Maybe you’re looking to thrust your teen children into an environment where their quick wit and snark will come in handy. If that’s the case, consider an improv class. Monthly classes and a weeklong summer camp are offered by the Blue Door Theatre and the Spokane School of Improv. Youth will learn to tell stories through scene work while being trained in the basics of improvisational comedy. Visit spokaneschoolofimprov.org for more info.

VISIT THE LIBRARY

Did you know there’s more to do at your local library than to just check out books? In recent years, libraries have become a one-stop shop of community resources and a place for folks to gather, making it the perfect place to spend some chill summer days.

The more artsy community can thrive throughout the end of June as nine different branches of the Spokane County Library District (SCLD) host the Mix it Up: Summer Beverages & Art series (June 18-28, locations vary by date). Attendees learn to craft their own (nonalcoholic) summer beverages as they paint murals celebrating reading and summer adventures. These events are free, and art supplies are provided, making it friendly to your wallet, too.

Throughout the summer, the SCLD also hosts several book sales, including one at the Cheney Library July 12-13. While buying a used book may be less intriguing than borrowing, it’s a great way to directly support your local library. Check scld.org for even more summertime library fun. MORE >>>

Honestly, I don’t know if there is a singular summer experience that makes or breaks the season for me. Now, that’s not to say that there isn’t anything fun to do, I’ve just never waited all year for any specific experience in the sunny months.

Growing up, each summer was different. Sure, there were some of the same elements, like sleepovers, summer camps and swimming, but otherwise the season was a wildcard. One year when my parents bought a camping trailer we camped throughout Eastern Washington on the way to our final destination of Silverwood Theme Park. Another year, the most exciting aspect was a weekly walk to the public library and the time we spent reading the books we checked out.

Once I left for college, summers became even more unpredictable as the nonstop mix of schoolwork and actual work left little time for anything besides random day trips throughout the northwestern tip of the state.

Then when I finally got my first “real” job in rural North Dakota, the only fun thing to do was either drive an hour to the state’s most populous city, Fargo, or stay in town and visit Wahpper, the world’s largest catfish (while he may just be a sculpture, he’s real to me). And as I moved to Spokane last summer, I was still figuring out what I wanted my life to look like, leaving little room for any memory-making moments.

NEW TRADITIONS NEW TRADITIONS

The Inland Northwest is brimming with summer potential, you just have to learn to tap into it

BY COLTON RASANEN

But as I write this, I realize I’ve got the opportunity to change all that. After nearly a year in Spokane, it’s become very apparent that this may be the city I decide to call home for the foreseeable future, and I’ll be damned if I can’t find something that leaves me waiting an entire year to experience it again.

Maybe I’ll have a fancy tea party in Manito Park’s Duncan Garden with all my friends. Or I could take a leisurely lunch gazing at Palouse Falls as I ruminate on my place in this infinite universe. Perhaps I’ll attempt the world’s most glamorous selfie at Lake Coeur d’Alene only to fall in the water on purpose, so I have something interesting to use as a caption.

I’d even settle for an annual visit to some of the best air-conditioned places in the region.

Regardless of what I choose to make the most of the season, I’m entirely certain I’ll find it tucked away somewhere in the Inland Northwest. n

Duncan Gardens is tea party perfect. RL MILLER PHOTO

LEARN TO DANCE

This summer you could dance like no one’s watching, because in the confines of your own space that’s likely the case anyways. Readers who already know a dance move or two can get started immediately, but for those with two left feet and a missing synaptic connection, there is help to be had.

The MSD Irish Dance Academy is hosting an Irish dance camp (June 17-20) at the LightFeet Dance Studio in Liberty Lake. For $30, folks of all ages are guided through four mini-sessions to learn basic Irish dance movements.

Near the end of summer, on Sept. 9, attend free choreographed ballroom lessons at Western Dance Center. A week later (Sept. 17), the same group teaches free square dancing lessons at the North Spokane Dance Center. While partners aren’t required to attend either class, it’s highly recommended for the most favorable outcomes.

If you’re looking for more regular dance lessons, the Inland Northwest is filled with studios just waiting to deliver the decadence of dance in all its many forms, from tango to ballet.

BINGE & VEG

There’s nothing better than sinking into your seat and streaming a favorite show when the heat outside makes it unbearable to even leave the house.

If you’re a fan of gory, comic-book action, you’ll want to keep up with the fourth season of The Boys, which premiered this week on Amazon Prime. For those into more modern comedic dramas, don’t miss the Aug. 27 premiere of the Hulu original Only Murders in the Building’s fourth season. However, if you’re looking for the comfort of an already-completed show, we recommend Sense8 on Netflix and The Golden Girls on Hulu.

PLAY PRETEND

Role playing games like Dungeons & Dragons are often the most whimsical and fantastical things you can do indoors. I mean, where else can you fight a dragon in one moment and, in the next, sneakily flirt with an innkeeper to get what you want?

These games are best when played with friends, but if you don’t have a group that wants to play, there are still options available. On the first and third Saturday of the month from 1-3:45 pm, jump into a game at Spark Central in Kendall Yards. On Fridays and Saturdays, attend similar gaming drop-ins at the RPG Community Center in East Spokane. Also check with local game shops, like the recently opened Bear Totem in Hillyard, for even more opportunities. n

Go on a fantasy adventure with friends at Bear Totem in Hillyard, and other local gaming venues. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

WHEELS WHEELS

Ready, set, ride around the Pacific Northwest

BY SUMMER SANDSTROM

With the abundance of nature activities around the Pacific Northwest, summer is a great time to bike through a lush forest or up a mountain peak. If that’s not your style, get together with some friends to zip around a roller skating rink. Or, hop on your e-bike or scooter (or rent one now that Lime’s back in Spokane for the season) and explore the city’s many festivals and events. Whichever wheeled apparatus you choose, it’s time to start the summer off in motion.

PEDAL TO THE PEAK

On June 15, Mount Spokane is the site of the inaugural Climb for the Cure timed bike race. The race is put on by The Wendy Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to raising money in memory of Spokane-area resident Wendy Ramsey, who died in 2021 from a rare form of leukemia called Richter’s Syndrome. Proceeds go to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, a renowned cancer research institute in Boston.

There are six racing categories separated by age and gender, with prizes for top placers in each. The route consists of gravel and paved roads and is estimated to take anywhere from three to five hours. Since the ride is mainly uphill, it’s recommended that participants have mountain biking experience. Sign up at climbforthecure.org.

ROLL WITH IT

Fast-paced and more challenging than it looks, roller skating is an ideal activity to do outside on a paved pathway or rink, and a fun way to escape the blistering heat or wildfire smoke that may saturate the air for days or weeks through the season. The Numerica Skate Ribbon in Riverfront Park offers free admission during roller skating season. Bring your own skates, nonmotorized scooters or skateboards, or rent a pair of skates or a scooter for $5.95 and $7.95, respectively.

For indoor rinks, check out Pattison’s North, Roller Valley Skate & Event Center in Spokane Valley, or Skate Plaza in Coeur d’Alene, each of which offer lessons for brand-new skaters, along with occasional events (check each venue’s website or social media for updates). Amp up your roller skating adventures even more and check out Lilac City Roller Derby, which has new skater orientation events scheduled for July 14 and 18 at Roller Valley; find details at lilaccityrollerderby.com.

LOOP THE LAKE

Just north of Coeur d’Alene is Hayden Lake, lined with sandy shores and forested trails overlooking its clear blue waters. To complete the Hayden Lake Loop, you can start in Coeur d’Alene and ride north to Honeysuckle Avenue and Strahorn Road, then continue northeast to Lakeview Drive. Next follow Hayden Lake Road, which loops around most of the lake.

There are also a number of trails along the route which bring you closer toward the shore and various beaches — a perfect rest stop along the 30-mile loop. Consider stopping by Honeysuckle Beach for a picnic or checking out one of Coeur d’Alene’s many eateries after your trek.

For more details, Trek CDA bike shop’s “Hayden Lake Loop” route on Ride with GPS (ridewithgps.com) has more. The shop shares other routes around Coeur d’Alene if you’re looking to spend a full day biking amid the Idaho Panhandle’s scenic forests and lakes.

Mountain bikers can enjoy the views at Mount Spokane.

When its too hot for ice skates, break out the wheels.

SPOKANE PARKS & REC PHOTO

Lilac City Roller Derby hosts several intro sessions for those interested in joining the team.

YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

WHEELS WHEELS

SCOOT AROUND TOWN

Are you an avid scooter rider, or are you looking for a group event centered on scooters? Look no further than the Mild Riders, a Spokane “scooter gang” founded in 2021 by Tiffany Patterson and Ruben Villarreal to bring together local scooter lovers for weekly rides around the city. Every Thursday at 6 pm from now through the fall, the group hosts Thursday night rides, for which participants meet up at Lunarium cafe (1925 N. Monroe St.) and embark on a two-wheeled journey through town. Since most scooters don’t reach super high speeds, the Mild Riders often pick routes less traveled by cars, which often equates to a more scenic ride. For information on upcoming rides, follow the Mild Riders on Instagram (@mild.riders.spokane).

PEDAL POWERED

Explore Riverfront Park from a new perspective — one that’s a lot lower to the ground than you’re probably used to — by renting a pedal kart at the Numerica Skate Ribbon and SkyRide building. The human-powered rides fit both kids (ages 5 and up) and adults, and are designed to be stable and smooth, even if you may get a little winded pedaling up some of the park’s hilly areas. The park has four single-seat karts and two double-seat karts, so whether you’re having a date night, family time or going solo, these rides can add a little extra fun to your outing. Helmets are required, and rentals can be made for 30 minutes ($9) or an hour ($13). Check riverfrontspokane.com for rental hours.

EXPLORE CANFIELD MOUNTAIN

Right on the outskirts of Coeur d’Alene is Canfield Mountain, which has over 25 miles of trails suited for hiking, biking and dirt biking. A 100-acre area on the mountain was purchased in 2019 by former Facebook engineer Jason Evans, who partnered with the City of Coeur d’Alene and the Lake City Trail Alliance to build and maintain a network of trails there.

Canfield Mountain’s trails are of varying levels of steepness, meaning riders can easily customize their ride’s length and difficulty. For a shorter ride, embark on a 1.1- or 5.3-mile loop around the mountain. Visit the City of Coeur d’Alene’s website (cdaid.org) to find a trail map of the natural area. Next time you’re feeling adventurous, head out and see where your wheels take you.

Get wild with the Mild Riders. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

Canfield Mountain boasts tons of trails. VISIT COEUR D’ALENE PHOTO

PARTY ON WHEELS

To start off summer in joyous fashion, head over to Olmsted Brothers Green in Kendall Yards on June 15 for the Movin’ and Groovin’ Ride, a low-stakes bike ride filled with music and bright lights. Avid local cyclist

Erin Mensing organized the ride to bring together fellow riders for a joyous community party. If you’re not a cyclist, you can still join in the fun as skateboards and roller skates are also welcome. The ride starts at 7 pm and goes until 9 pm, and it’s free, with no sign-up required. Adorn your bike with lights and other fun decorations, and get ready to ride along to fun music that keeps everyone movin’ and groovin’. n

Come visit Historic Colville

Tour the artist’s sculptures

Just 70 miles North of Spokane, surrounded by National Forest and minutes from Lake Roosevelt.

27 Campgrounds at Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area

• Camping

• Hunting

• Road cycling

4TH FRIDAYS

• Fishing

• Hiking

• Scenic Drives

• Shopping

• Mountain Biking

• Dining

Art Walk, Kids Activities, Vendors and Live Music every 4th Friday in June, July, August and September

Mountain Market on Main

Everything Good Under One Roof

McCunn GALLERY

There’s

still plenty of time to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Expo ’74 with these groovy events

BY MADISON PEARSON

This May marked 50 years since Spokane hosted the 1974 World’s Fair Exposition, a huge feat for a city of its size and a major turning point in regional history. New events celebrating the 50th anniversary are still popping up each week, with tons of local organizations getting involved in the festivities, and Expo-themed activities happening literally every day throughout the summer.

Whether you’re looking to get outside and celebrate nature while walking through Riverfront Park, or you’re hoping to learn more about potential environmental legislation that picks up where Expo’s efforts left off 50 years ago, there’s an activity to participate in.

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT

The Great Northern Railroad Depot that once sat in Spokane’s center was demolished to make way for Expo. All that remains today is the Great Northern Clocktower, an iconic fixture of the city’s skyline. The Pavilion in Riverfront Park was a gift from the United States government, and housed the fair’s U.S. exhibits. Its tent-like cable structure and flashing lights serve as an ever-present reminder of the World’s Fair that changed our city for the better. These two landmarks with rich ties to Expo’s history are lit up every Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights culminating in a final light show on July 4 to round out the ongoing, nine-week calendar of Expo celebrations. More at visitspokane.com/expo-50.

The Pavilion and Clock Tower are Spokane’s most recognizable Expo ’74 relics. JAMES RICHMAN PHOTO

SEE IT FOR YOURSELF

You can’t have a 50th anniversary celebration without plenty of nostalgia. Thankfully, local institutions have been preparing for months to bring a blast of sentimentality and education via art shows, memorabilia showcases, exhibits and more.

Catch the River Ridge Association of Fine Arts’ Expo ’74 Show at Indaba Coffee’s Riverside cafe through June 30. If history is your forté, swing by the Pavilion to see the Expo ’74 Historic Timeline Outdoor Exhibit (through July 4). Each stop on the timeline marks a pivotal moment of Expo and its legacy of environmental consciousness.

Beginning in July, local artists Gina Freuen, Jo Fyfe, Tom Quinn, E.L. Stewart, Gordon Wilson and others showcase their Expo-themed art at Spokane Art School (July 5-26). Downtown Spokane record shop Entropy is also hosting an “Expo 50 Group Show” in July for a double-whammy of Expo goodness.

Spokane’s Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture is the place to be for Expo buffs and out-of-towners alike. From the sparkly jumpsuit worn by Liberace to letters detailing concerns about having then-President Richard Nixon speak at the opening ceremonies amid the Watergate scandal, the collection showcased in “It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later” (up through Jan. 26, 2025) is nothing short of mind boggling. In the next room over, take a seat and watch about 30 minutes worth of archival fair footage in “Expo ’74: Films from the Vault” (through Sept. 8).

Wanna see even more memorabilia? The Spokane County Library District is showcasing Expo ’74 memorabilia through July to celebrate people’s memories of the fair. Displays are open for viewing July 1-31 at the following county library branches: North Spokane, Medical Lake, Airway Heights, Deer Park, Otis Orchards and Moran Prairie. Visit scld.org for more information.

Spokane Valley Heritage Museum’s “All Fairs Lead to Expo ’74” exhibit runs through Sept. 2 and details the history of fairs in the region from 1886 up to the 1974 World’s Fair with signs, original Expo gondola cars and more.

There’s plenty of Expo ’74 nostalgia to be had this summer. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Summer Calendar of Events

• JUNE 15 North American Big Rigs & Fireworks Findlay Stadium at Stateline Speedway

• JULY 3 Demo Derby & Fireworks Findlay Stadium at Stateline Speedway

• JULY 6 Aaron Tippin & Keith Anderson Concert Findlay Stadium at Stateline Speedway

• JULY 12-14 Post Falls Festival

• JULY 13 Post Falls Parade

• JUNE 28 Movie in the Park-at Hilde Kellogg

• JULY 12 Movie in the Park-at Q’emiln

• JULY 24 Chris Janson Concert Findlay Stadium at Stateline Speedway

• JULY 26 & 27 Idaho 200 25th Annual Race Weekend - Findlay Stadium at Stateline Speedway

• JULY 26 Movie in the Park-at Tullamore

• JULY 17 River City Market and Music at the Landings Park

• JULY 24 River City Market and Music at the Landings Park

• JULY 31 River City Market and Music at the Landings Park

• AUG 7 River City Market and Music at the Landings Park

• AUG 14 River City Market and Music at the Landings Park

• AUG 21 River City Market and Music at the Landings Park

• SEPT 28 Prost in the Park - at Q’emiln

• OCT 5 Shoes n Brews

For more Post Falls fun check out: www.visitpostfalls.org/events-and-festivals/ OR

www.postfalls.gov/special-event/

FALLS IDAHO

MAKE A CHANGE

FUN

FUN

FUN

HISTORIC JOURNEYS

Expo was all about protecting the environment and cherishing the beauty of the natural world. So the best way to celebrate Expo’s 50th anniversary is to enjoy the nature that exists within the city and the region while learning how Expo changed the landscape forever.

Take a guided kayak tour hosted by Spokane Parks and Rec starting at Upriver Park and travel down to the Division Street Bridge while learning how Expo’s beautification efforts changed the land around the river (June 28-29). Head to my.spokanecity. org to register.

The Sierra Club of Washington State is hosting Restoring Salmon (July 6), a three-hour carpool tour highlighting efforts to restore salmon in the Upper Columbia and Spokane rivers. Begin by revisiting Spokane’s railroad history, then head to Nine Mile Dam and the confluence of the Spokane and Little Spokane Rivers, and finish at Aquifer Springs below Dead Man’s Hill to discuss the importance of the aquifer in providing clean, flowing water for salmon.

Expo ’74 was the first-ever environmentally-themed world’s fair. It was officially known as the International Exposition on the Environment and the theme was promoted through several events, such as a symposium on United Nations World Environment Day attended by many international representatives. Yet it was still said that not enough policymakers attended Expo, and as a result policies to combat global warming or climate change were never put into place during the fair’s run.

The Expo ’74 Legislative Summit (June 21) hosted by the Lands Council aims to pick up where Expo left off. At the summit, legislators and local experts plan to craft legislation on six locally important topics. The proposed bills will then be sponsored in the Washington Legislature’s 2025 session and could become law if passed. For more information and to register, visit landscouncil.org.

The League of Women Voters of Spokane Area is partnering with the Spokane County Library District to host community conversations about the current climate crisis. The final discussion takes place on June 27 at the Deer Park Library. If you’re interested in attending, check out the organization’s recommended reading list, which includes books for children, teens and adults that aim to provide educational lessons about climate change. Become informed, talk with your community, and learn how to make real change with fellow environmentalists. Head to my.lwv.org/washington/spokane-area for more information.

The citywide celebration of Expo’s legacy continues through the summer. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Expo completely transformed downtown Spokane’s core. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MAC

BOOGIE DOWN

The 1970s were an ideal time for an environmental world’s fair because so much music about the climate crisis was coming out at the time: “A Day in the Life of a Tree” by the Beach Boys, Joni Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi” and “Mercy, Mercy Me (The Ecology)” by Marvin Gaye.

Celebrate the music of the era at the Imagine Jazz Festival (June 23) when many local jazz bands and student groups perform ’70s hits in Riverfront Park’s Lilac Bowl.

Speaking of local talent, who doesn’t love some healthy competition? Spokane’s Got Talent: Expo ’74

Art by Peter Max, from the stamp celebrating Expo ’74

edition (June 20), produced in partnership with the Spokane Civic Theatre, promises to immerse the audience in groovy vibes as community members perform various talents in front of a panel of judges. Cheer on your favorite local musicians, singers and magicians as they participate in this ’70s-themed showcase.

If you’re the type of person who loves a theme, head to a Silent Disco on June 22 in the alley between Main and Wall streets. Each guest gets a pair of wireless headphones blasting disco hits. So practice your hustle, because it’s time to get funky. For even more Expo 50 events, visit expo50spokane.com. n

THEATER THEATER

A SUMMER OF CLASSICS

From classic musicals to regional premieres, there’s something for every theater fan this summer

BY E.J. IANNELLI

The heavy hitters of the summertime theatrical world — namely, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre and Spokane Valley Summer Theatre — have seasons promising big production value with top-tier musicals like Fiddler on the Roof and South Pacific At the same time, those iconic shows are augmented by unique or unconventional smaller-scale entertainment that can be found no matter where you are. Whether you’re in the mood for thought-provoking original work, short-form festivals or edgy comedies, the region’s theater scene has something to fit the bill this summer.

With a trio of popular musicals scheduled over an eight-week period, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre gives audiences the opportunity to experience a concentrated dose of Broadway classics during the summer months. The season starts with Fiddler on the Roof (June 28-July 7), the 1964 hit musical featuring earworms like “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “If I Were a Rich Man.” Set during a historical period that preceded the fall of the Russian Empire, the musical sees Tevye, the village milkman, struggling to uphold Jewish tradition even as it’s questioned by his older daughters and threatened by political forces.

After Fiddler comes The Secret Garden (July 19-28). Inspired by the beloved children’s novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, this is the story of an orphaned girl who comes to stay with her peculiar relatives in England. On the grounds of their manor house she discovers the titular garden, a Victorian-style maze that factors into the family’s tragic past. But through resolve, forgiveness and a little supernatural guidance, everyone might just have a shot at redemption. Composer Lucy Simon (sister of Carly) and lyricist Marsha Norman both received acclaim for their original score to The Secret Garden

The season ends on a goofy but definitely macabre note with Little Shop of Horrors (Aug. 9-18). Seymour Krelborn is a timid, put-upon assistant in Mr. Mushnik’s flower shop, but a strange plant he names Audrey II (after his hopeless crush) changes his fortunes in ways he can only imagine. Only problem is, Audrey II is a little hungrier and more cunning than most houseplants. This dark sci-fi comedy has a 1960s-influenced doo-wop and R&B score and represents one of the earliest collaborations between Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, the creative duo behind Disney hits like The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast. Find the summer schedule and get tickets at cstidaho.com.

THE THRILL OF THE NEW

It’s always nice to catch a show that’s familiar or famous, but there’s something undeniably special about brand-new works. Maybe it’s the excitement of arriving without preconceptions or expectations. Or the novelty of seeing something groundbreaking before everyone else. Bonus points when there’s regional talent behind the production, too.

Chelsea Duvall’s experimental original play the (same) incident gets its debut run at Stage Left Theater from June 14-30. It evolved out of West Coast workshops before coming to the Spokane Playwrights Laboratory for final prep. Duvall is a local writer, director and actor; another local playwright, actor and director, Dahveed Bullis, oversees a cast of six for this premiere. But even if this launch represents the collective artistry of the Spokane theater scene, the play itself has a national scope. The (same) incident examines the cycles of violence and blame around mass shootings and how media and society might contribute to those cycles. Through a choreographic approach to movement and what it calls “collage-style theater,” the half-dozen actors in the (same) incident present vignettes that encourage audiences to reflect on what has sadly become a defining phenomenon of our times.

Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre takes audiences past the locked door in its production of The Secret Garden

Stage Left premieres the (same) incident ASHLYN WILKER PHOTO

FROM PAGE TO STAGE

It isn’t unusual for enduring literature to make the leap to the Broadway stage — just see The Secret Garden as mentioned earlier. Segueing between the short stories written by its primary protagonist, Jo, and the everyday ups-and-downs of her family’s bustling household, Little Women: The Musical gives a song-and-dance spin to the 19th-century novel that author Louisa May Alcott based largely on her own life. A new production of this 2005 musical at Sandpoint’s Panida Theater takes place on June 14 and 15. It’s directed by Michael Seifert and put on by the students at the nearby Waldorf-inspired Nova High School.

WARTIME EPICS AND JUKEBOX FAVORITES

Spokane Valley Summer Theatre has two musicals lined up this season ahead of Rising Stars, its increasingly popular showcase of budding talent from around the region.

Yvonne A.K. Johnson directs the opener, South Pacific (June 21-July 7), Rodgers and Hammerstein’s wartime epic that deals with love, prejudice and loss in ways that are now considered well ahead of its time. David Brewster, who oversaw last year’s Escape to Margaritaville at SVST as well as their Big Band Christmas, returns to provide music direction for a memorable score that includes “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair” and “Some Enchanted Evening.” Andrea Olsen, former co-lead of SVST’s production of Bright Star, which took top honors in the Inlander’s 2024 Best Of Readers Poll, is back in another principal role, this time as Ensign Nellie Forbush. She’s opposite veteran opera singer Max Mendez as plantation owner Emile.

Jukebox musical Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story (July 26-Aug. 11) is next, this time with up-and-coming director Collin J. Pittman at the helm. This traces the rapid arc of Holly’s career from frontman of Buddy Holly & The Crickets to a solo artist, right up to his death in an infamous plane crash at the age of just 22. Whether you’re a longtime fan of 1950s radio staples like “That’ll Be the Day” and “Peggy Sue” or just curious about the life of a seminal figure in the origins of rock ’n’ roll, Buddy should scratch that itch with diegetic performances of Holly’s hits. It also features songs from the other music pioneers who lost their lives alongside him. David Brewster is handling music direction on this one, too, and Gunnar Rorholm stars as the bespectacled title character. Get tickets at svsummertheatre.com.

Andrea Olsen co-stars in SVST’s South Pacific DYLAN K. JOHNSON PHOTO

THEATER THEATER

HIGH SCHOOL IS MURDER

A musical adaptation of the eponymous 1988 cult film that led to breakthrough roles for both Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, Heathers takes audiences back to the merciless high-school hierarchies that provided such rich fodder for ’80s entertainment. Here, a trio of popular girls (all named Heather, of course) rule Westerberg High School along with their muscle, jocks Ram and Kurt. Unfortunately for the Heathers, their fraught relationship with misfit Veronica Sawyer turns deadly when she develops a relationship with J.D., the enigmatic new student who has no qualms about realizing revenge fantasies.

This production of Heathers: The Musical runs at Spokane Civic Theatre (July 12-28) and is jointly directed by Troy Nickerson and Heather McHenry-Kroetch, the same team behind previous productions of Evil Dead and Rocky Horror Show. Josian Brett, who was in Aspire Community Theatre’s All Shook Up last year, stars as Veronica alongside Civic regular Jameson Elton as J.D. But before going, bear in mind that Heathers — including this musical version — ranks among the darker of dark comedies, so it doesn’t shy away from themes like bullying, teen suicide, homophobia and sexual assault. Tickets are on sale now at spokanecivictheatre.com.

students

VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE

With a reputation that has grown over the 14 years it’s been running, the One-Act Play Festival at the Pend Oreille Playhouse (Aug. 16-18) is ideal for audiences who want to take in a wide variety of theater in a single sitting. A local director oversees each of the festival’s original 10-minute plays, which can range from poignant drama to fast-paced comedies. In keeping with the festival’s emphasis on fun and discovery, the submissions typically come from far and wide, and the pool of cast members includes a mix of experienced actors and emerging talent. Find details at pendoreilleplayers.com.

HEROES AND VILLAINS

Sixth Street Melodrama in Wallace, Idaho, kicks off its 202425 season with Huckleberry Havoc, or…The Villain Is in a Jam (July 18-Aug. 18). The first part of the evening features a musical performance from Kelly’s Alley Revue. After intermission is the melodrama — for reference, think of the exaggerated plots and performances of silent films — wherein our hero, Sgt. Stanley Steadfast, is tasked with finding a special pie recipe before saloon owner Lucrecia Luscious and villain Malcot Malicious (complete with black cape and mustache) foil their plans. It’s good old-fashioned entertainment, right down to the live piano accompaniment.

GAME OF THRONES

Just before the summer winds down, Pullman’s Regional Theatre of the Palouse whisks audiences off to the legendary court of King Arthur with Camelot (Sept. 1222). The award-winning 1960 Lerner and Loewe musical blends mythology with timeless themes of romance and betrayal as Arthur struggles to reconcile his lofty ideals with would-be usurpers and his queen’s infidelity. Figures like Guenevere, Sir Lancelot, Merlin, Morgan le Fay and Mordred are all part of this epic tale, as are favorite songs like “If Ever I Would Leave You” and “I Loved You Once in Silence.” More at rtoptheatre.org. n

The Civic stages Heathers: The Musical this summer. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

Historic Wallace’s Sixth Street Melodrama. CHEY SCOTT PHOTO

SPORTS & RECREATION SPORTS & RECREATION

Summer

in the Inland

Northwest is a perfect time to get outdoors for movement and good vibes

BY NATE SANFORD

Going outside is the hottest and coolest thing anyone can do this summer. Scrolling phones? Out. Skipping stones? In. Summer 2024 is for smelling flowers, touching grass, tossing frisbees and petting dogs. No more rotting indoors. It’s time to watch sunsets and say “damn” when things start to turn orange. It’s time to wade waist-deep into rivers and drink beers while cold mountain runoff runs gently against your skin.

The average Spokanite has less than 77.7 summers on this green earth. Here are six ideas to get outside and make the most of this one.

ZAG IT UP WITH BEER DIE

If you’ve ever walked through Spokane’s Logan Neighborhood on a hot day, you may have seen an unusual sight: Shirtless young men in backwards baseball caps huddled around a ping-pong table in the front yard of a college house, throwing a six-sided die high into the air and shouting excitedly when it hits the table.

The game is called “Beer Die,” and it’s a ton of fun. The numbers on the dice don’t actually matter. The goal is to throw the die to a certain height so it falls and bounces off the opposing team’s side of the table and onto the ground. If the opposing team isn’t able to catch the die before it hits the ground, the team that threw it gets a point, and the opposing team takes a drink. Play until someone has 21 points — or until everyone runs out of beer.

The game is a staple of college fraternities across the country, but there’s no reason it can’t be expanded to a wider audience. It’s more physically engaging than beer pong, but still casual enough to be played while having a conversation.

WATCH HOOPFEST

The largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament on planet earth takes place on June 29 and 30 this year. Tens of thousands of players from across the country descend on downtown Spokane to duke it out on hundreds of impromptu courts as part of the Hoopfest tournament.

The deadline to register to compete in Hoopfest has passed, but showing up to watch is just as fun. People from ages 7 to 70 will be competing. There’s something deeply endearing about the amateur, frenzied nature of 3-on-3 street basketball. Bitter rivalries, sweet victories and crushing defeats. The games are 25 minutes each, and the first team to reach 20 points wins. Even if you aren’t playing on a team, you can still show off your skills in slam dunk, free throw and long-range shooting contests.

Download the official Hoopfest app to check out this year’s teams. I recommend picking the one with the wackiest name to follow and root for. It’s going to get sweaty. Bring sunblock. And water.

HIKE NORTH IDAHO

The Scotchman Peaks Wilderness area is 88,000 acres of national forest land that spans the border of northern Idaho and northwestern Montana. It’s a rugged and vast wilderness, with old-growth forests, mountains, scenic views and a famous herd of mountain goats — the perfect place for a summer adventure.

Navigating the wilderness area can be tricky. Thankfully, the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness offers a host of free guided hikes for beginners and experienced hikers alike. The hikes are led by volunteers.

“Every hike is a chance to connect with neighbors and connect with our wild backyard,” says Brooke Bolin, an outreach coordinator with Friends of Scotchman in a news release. “We offer a variety of unique experiences outdoors so that we can provide an adventure for anyone and everyone in our community.”

View the full 2024 season hiking schedule at scotchmanpeaks.org.

To the mountains! FRIENDS OF SCOTCHMAN PEAKS PHOTO

& RECREATION

& RECREATION

SWIM THE SPOKANE RIVER

It’s going to get hot this summer. Really hot. The solution: water. Fresh from the mountains. The Spokane River is filled with stretches of slow currents that are perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. I recommend Boulder Beach, a 15-minute drive from downtown Spokane on the north bank of the Spokane River. The spot takes its name from the massive boulders that look over the river, and is also popular with fishers and kayakers. It can get crowded during the summer, so it’s worth showing up early to find a parking spot.

PARK PARTY

Spokane’s city parks network has dozens of that can be used for parties and other events. Many have barbecues and other amenities. It’s the perfect way to unwind with friends on a warm day and celebrate the city’s beautiful parks system, which was recently ranked 23rd best in the U.S. by the Trust for Public Lands. Reserve a spot at a gazebo or picnic shelter at my.spokanecity.org/ parks/facilities. Some shelters and gazebos have a maximum capacity of between 30 and 50 people. If you have a lot of friends and are looking to make a reservation for a huge event, contact the reservations office directly by emailing parkopsreservations@spokanecity.org.

There are still lots of chances to cheer on the Spokane Velocity. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

MOUNTAIN CALLING MOUNTAIN CALLING

Summer isn’t complete without a trip to the mountains

BY NATE SANFORD

I’ve always seen summer as a time of destruction and rebirth.

New jobs. New partners and friends. Weddings. Travel. It’s during these months that the rate of people entering and exiting your life tends to reach its peak. Leases expire. People move. Even if you aren’t in school anymore, you’re still bound by its rhythms. It’s a time of personal change. All of this is healthy. But it can also be painful — like watching the grass turn yellow in August.

That’s why, at least once per summer, I try to make it a point to return to the one place that can never be destroyed, and will never be rebuilt: the Cascade Mountains.

For almost seven years now, a group of eight friends from high school and I have tried to organize at least one summer backpacking trip in the alpine wilderness. We did the first overnight trip in junior year of high school, and it somehow became an annual tradition that — knock on wood — has mostly survived adulthood.

It’s intoxicating, being so high in the mountains with no sign of civilization. It’s also, somewhat distressingly, the only time each year when I go more than 24 hours without looking at my phone.

The trips get harder to plan each year. Many of us moved across the country. People have jobs, partners and separate lives. In recent years, we’ve used a shared Google spreadsheet to coordinate everyones’ availability — a necessity my high school self probably would have found kind of lame.

The trip I most vividly remember was in August 2020,

the height of the pandemic and the protests. Nothing was certain. The air was thick with wildfire smoke. It felt like everything was being destroyed and nothing would ever be reborn again.

In the midst of it all, with the world on fire, we set out for Cooney Lake, a 17-mile alpine hike with nearly 3,000 feet in elevation gain in the Lake-Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness. It’s a two-day hike, but because of work schedules, some people could only do one day. Four of us set out from one end of the loop, with plans to rendezvous with the rest of the group at the halfway point on the second day. Without phones, I worried we’d miss each other.

On the first day, we crossed deep ravines and fields of wildfire-scorched trees. We camped in a field of wildflowers under the brightest stars you’ve ever seen. It felt we’d left the world behind.

On the morning of the second day, we climbed to the top of a steep snowy mountain. We stopped at the top of the peak, out of breath and exhausted, and looked down at the lake where we were to meet the rest of our group. We waited an hour. The lake seemed empty, and I worried we missed them. But then, as the afternoon sun began to dip, four small specks grew visible in the distance — friends!

We sprinted down the mountain — shouting greetings and swear words that echoed through the valley. The specks in the distance became people, and we hugged at the edge of the lake, sweat and all. For a brief moment, life felt the same as it ever was. n

SUMMER CALENDAR SUMMER CALENDAR

We’ve made it to summer. All of those long winter nights and rainy spring days have brought us here, and it’s time to make the best of it.

Whether you’re planning on filling your days with as much live music as your ears can handle or filling your stomach with all of the tantalizing food the Inland Northwest has to offer, this calendar guide has you covered from your sunglasses to down to your flip-flops.

Get outside while the sun is still shining and enjoy 14 weeks of events at our gorgeous local parks, music at your favorite outdoor venues, family-friendly activities galore at local libraries, all the craft beer you can drink on sun-laden patios, art in air-conditioned galleries and across sprawling lawns and, of course, all of your favorite annual events that you’ve been looking forward to all year.

Slather on the sunscreen and get going — summer only lasts so long!

— MADISON PEARSON SUMMER GUIDE CALENDAR EDITOR ALWAYS ONLINE AT INLANDER.COM/EVENTS

JULY 25

Blues Traveler with Justyn Priest

JULY 28

Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors + The National Parks

AUGUST 2

Jason Mraz & The Superband with Molly Miller Trio

JULY 25 - AUGUST 4, 2024

JULY 26

Violent Femmes An Evening With

JULY 31

Maren Morris with Delacey

AUGUST 3

Colbie Caillat & Gavin DeGraw PERFORMING

JULY 27

Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue with Big Boi

AUGUST 1

Lee Brice with Madeline Merlo

AUGUST 4

How to Train Your Dragon - In Concert

JUNE 13-19 JUNE 13-19

COMEDY

6/13 Peter Antoniou, Spokane Comedy Club

6/14 A Fully-Improvised Musical Harding Family Center

6/14 J HoopProv, Blue Door Theatre

6/15 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

6/15 Queerprov, Blue Door Theatre

6/16 John Crist, The Fox Theater

6/19 Improv, Pend Oreille Playhouse

COMMUNITY

6/13-19

Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

6/13-19 J It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC (continues all summer)

6/13-19 All Fairs Lead To Expo ’74, Spokane Valley Heritage Museum

6/13 Summer Reading Kick-Off Party, Hillyard Library

6/13 Tribal Fashion Show, Pavilion

6/14-16 Wallace Gyro Days

6/14-16 All Wheels Weekend, Dayton

6/14-15 Medical Lake Founder’s Day

6/14-19 Young Adults Explore Buddhism, Sravasti Abbey

6/14 J Wheatland Bank Free Horse & Carriage Rides, Riverfront Park

6/14-15 Car d’Lane, Coeur d’Alene

6/15-16 Bigfoot Festival, Metaline Falls

6/15-16 Brick Fest Live, Spokane Convention Center

6/15-19 J Driving the American Dream: 1970s Cars, The MAC

6/15 J CDA4Pride Tie-Dye Party, Human Rights Education Institute

6/15-16 Strawberry Festival, Siemers Farm

6/15 J Juneteenth Community Celebration, MLK Center

6/15 Expo 50 Community Stage & Vendor Village, Riverfront Park

6/15 J 33 Artists Market, The Wonder Building

6/15 J Philippine Independence Day, Riverfront Park

6/17-19 Summer Park Program, Terrace View, Mission, Edgecliff Parks (all summer)

6/19 J Moonshine Artisan Night Market & Moonlit Movies, Commellini Estate

FILM

6/13-19 J Expo ’74: Films from the Vault, The MAC

6/13-19 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater (Wed-Fri, all summer)

6/15 Farmers Market Cartoons, The Kenworthy

6/15 J Jed Brophy Meet & Greet, The Comic Book Shop (NorthTown)

6/15-16 J The Goonies, Garland Theater

6/15-16 Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater (Sat-Sun, all summer)

6/15 Selkirk Conservation Alliance Film Festival, The Inn at Priest Lake

6/15 American Graffiti, Garland Theater

6/15 J Rocky Horror Picture Show, Garland Theater

6/19 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Ponyo, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

6/13 J The Wandering Table, Honey Eatery and Social Club

6/15 Lets Taco ‘Bout Wine, Stonelodge Farm

6/15 Legends Cigar & Spirits Festival, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

6/16 Nova Kaine’s Don’t Tell Mama Cabaret & Drag Brunch, Highball

6/16 Sunday Brunch Cruise, CdA Resort

6/18 J Riverfront Eats, Riverfront Park

MUSIC

6/15 Lullaby Concert, Central Library

6/15 A Night of Joel, The Bing

6/17 Jojo, Kroc Center

6/13 J Hell Motel, Daybed, Prim, Bad Trip Motel, The Big Dipper

6/13 GRLwood, Gotu Gotu, District Bar

6/14 J Warp Detour, Not For Nothing, The Big Dipper

6/14 Not.Greenday, The Nixon Rodeo, Spokane Tribe Casino

6/15 J The Bed Heads, Small Paul, Timeworm, The Big Dipper

6/15 Vince Neil, Spokane Tribe Casino

6/15 Latin Summer Party, District Bar

6/16 Jazzy Father’s Day Concert, Bing

6/16 Shady Angels, Monkee Business, Geneva, The Big Dipper

6/17 Mat Kearney, Bing Crosby Theater

6/17 Artillery, Vapor, War Curse, RivetSkull, Toxic Vengeance, The Big Dipper

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

6/13-19 Greater Spokane Parks Challenge (all summer)

6/13-19 Open Play Pickleball, HUB Sports Center (all summer)

6/13 J Mild Riders Thursday Night Rides, Lunarium

6/13 King of the Cage, Northern Quest

6/14 Citizen Science, Pine Street Woods

6/14-15 J Spokatopia, Camp Sekani

6/15 J Spokane in Bloom Garden Tour

6/15 Summer Rooftop Yoga Series, Historic Davenport Hotel

6/15 Color Me Rad, Møde Work

6/15 Movin’ & Groovin’ Ride, Olmsted Brothers Green

6/16 Spokane River Kayak Tour

6/16 Historical Walking Tour: Greenwood Terrace Cemetery

6/17 Yoga For You, Coeur d’Alene Public Library (all summer)

6/18 Tai Chi & Qi Gong, Coeur d’Alene Public Library (all summer)

6/18 Gentle Flow Yoga, South Hill Library

6/18 Brick West Run Club, Brick West Brewing Co.

6/18 J Summer Parkways, Manito Park

6/18-19 Spokane Indians vs. Eugene Emeralds, Avista Stadium

THEATER

6/13-16 J CATS, Spokane Civic Theatre

6/14-14 Always a Bridesmaid, Roxy Theater

6/14-16 The (Same) Incident, Stage Left

6/15 J World Ballet Festival, First Interstate Center for the Arts

6/19 Spokane Folklore Society Contra Dance, Woman’s Club of Spokane

VISUAL ARTS

6/13-19 J Heart of the Country, Kolva-Sullivan Gallery (through June 29)

6/13-19 20 Years of ArtWalk, Third Street Gallery (through July 5)

6/13-19 J Higher Ground, Washington State University

6/13-19 J Faculty & Student Show, Spokane Art School

6/13 Reuse Workshop, Mobius

6/13-19 J Beyond Hope, Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU

6/13-19 Convergence, Art Spirit Gallery

6/13-19 Felisa Carranza & Kurt Carlson, New Moon Art Gallery

6/13-19 J Z. McMaster, Entropy

6/13-15 Matt Schwenk, Terrain Gallery. 6/14-15 Madeline GcGinn & The Hive Artists-in-Residence, Saranac 6/14 Second Friday Artwalk, Downtown 6/15-19 J Pride Exhibition, Emerge

WORDS

6/13-19 Page 42 Summer Reading Program (all summer)

6/14-15 Friends of the Library Book Sale, Liberty Lake Library

6/14 J J. William T. Youngs: The Fair and the Falls, Auntie’s 6/15 J Pride Storytime, Auntie’s 6/15 Story and Craft, The MAC (all summer)

6/18 Trails and Tales, Sandpoint Library 6/19 J Broken Mic, Neato Burrito (weekly)

Lake VISIT

JUNE 20-26 JUNE 20-26

COMEDY

6/21-22 Lisa Ann Walter, Spokane Comedy Club

6/21 J HoopProv, Blue Door Theatre

6/22 J Mark Normand, First Interstate Center for the Arts

6/22 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

6/23 Jeff Allen, Spokane Comedy Club

6/23-24 J Ellen DeGeneres, The Fox Theater

COMMUNITY

6/20-21 J Driving the American Dream: 1970s Cars, The MAC (continues all summer)

6/20 J Spokane’s Got Talent, Pavilion

6/21-23 Bonners Ferry Pride, Pearl Theater

6/21 J Wheatland Bank Free Horse & Carriage Rides, Riverfront Park

6/22-23 J Skyfest, Fairchild Air Force Base

6/22-23 J Fairy Festa 2024, Spokane Gallery and Framing

6/22-23 Strawberry Fest, Siemers Farm

6/22 J Bazaar, River Park Square

6/22 Midsommar, Riverfront Park

6/22-23 Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party, Spokane Arena

6/22 J Silent Disco, Downtown Spokane

6/22 J Queer Prom, The Chameleon

6/23 A Celebration of Our Sister Cities, Riverfront Park

6/26 J Moonshine Artisan Market & Movies, Commellini Estate

FILM

6/20 Third Thursday Matinee: Picnic at

Hanging Rock, The MAC

6/20-21 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Ponyo, Garland Theater

6/21 Full Draw Film Tour, Panida Theater

6/23-23 Summer Blockbuster: Jurassic Park, The Kenworthy

6/25 Ed Wood, The Kenworthy

6/26 J Moscow Film Society: Pulp Fiction, The Kenworthy

FOOD & DRINK

6/21 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

6/21 BBQ & Bands: Jackson Roltgen, The Culinary Stone

6/22 J Sip for Sustainability, Historic Davenport Hotel

6/23 Sunday Brunch Cruises, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

6/25 J Riverfront Eats, Riverfront Park

MUSIC

6/20 Mardi Gras Growlers, Coeur d’Alene Park

6/21 J Hayes Noble, Itchy Kitty, Loomer, nYne Bar & Bistro

6/21 J Uh Oh and the Oh Wells, Mama Llama, Brittany’s House, The Chameleon

6/21 James McMurty, The District Bar

6/22 KPBX Kids’ Concert: Canote Brothers, Central Library

6/22 J Copernicus & Friends, Riverfront Park

6/22 J KYRS Presents: Get Loud in the Library, Central Library

6/22 J Cowboy Bebop Live, The Bing

6/22-23 J Beyond Wonderland, Gorge Amphitheater

6/23 Jazz in the Air, Riverfront Park

6/24 Emily Nenni, Lucas Brookbank Brown, The District Bar

6/25 Kyle Smith, The Chameleon

SPORTS

&

OUTDOORS

6/20-23 J Spokane Indians vs. Eugene Emeralds, Avista Stadium

6/20 Riverfront Moves: Summer Solstice Yoga, Spokane Tribal Gathering Place

6/21 J Hiawatha Full Moon Night Ride, Lookout Pass

6/22-23 Race the Wolf, Schweitzer

6/23 J Lilac City Roller Derby Black & White Scrimmage, Roller Valley

6/23 Ironman 70.3, Coeur d’Alene

6/23 J Spokane Velocity vs. Lexington Sporting Club, One Spokane Stadium

6/25 Riverfront Moves: Bollywood Dance, Riverfront Park

THEATER

6/20-22 J A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Riverstone Park

6/20-23 J The (Same) Incident, Stage Left Theater

6/21-23 J South Pacific, University High School

6/22 Spokane Folklore Society Special Contra Dance, East Spokane Grange

VISUAL ARTS

6/20-26 Nancy Rothwell: Leaves Talk, Colfax Library

6/20-26 Felisa Carranza & Kurt Carlson, New Moon Art Gallery

6/20-26 J Between Borders: Folklife

Through the Coeur d’Alenes, Art Spirit Gallery

6/20-26 J Z. McMaster, Entropy

6/20-26 Convergence, The Art Spirit Gallery

6/20-26 Bevie LaBrie, For the Love of God Brewing

6/20-22 Matt Schwenk Terrain Gallery

6/21-22 Madeline GcGinn & The Hive Artists-in-Residence, Saranac

6/22 Cyanotype Printing and Tea Toning, The Hive

6/22 J Pressed Flower Class, Ritters

6/24 Tabletop Printmaking, Spokane Art School

6/25 Tuesday Gallery Talks, The MAC

6/25 Portrait Drawing Session 1, Spokane Art School

6/25 J Heartistry, Spark Central

6/26 Open Studio, The Hive

WORDS

6/20 Naturebrary, Sandpoint Library

6/20 J Mary Cronk Farrell: You Can Write a Book!, South Hill Library

6/22 Queer & Weird Book Club, Auntie’s

6/23 Chris Bieker: High Stakes at Hoopfest, Auntie’s

6/24 Paw Patrol Storytime, South Hill Library

6/26 J Foray for The Arts: The Light, Saltese Uplands

Catch local musician Hayes Noble at nYne on June 21. COURTESY PHOTO

6/29-30 Feed the Buffalo, Win-Tur Bison Farm

7/3 Our Air: What We Breathe & Smell, Spokane Valley Library

7/3 Kernel, Spark Central

6/29 J Post Falls Lions Brewfest, American Legion Post 143

6/29 J Food As Farmacy, Castle Rock Ranch

Mountain Resort

6/28-29 J Modern Homesteading Conference, Kootenai County Fairgrounds

JUNE 27 - JULY 3

JUNE 27 - JULY 3

COMEDY

6/28 A Fully-Improvised Musical, Harding Family Center

6/28-29 J Doug Benson, Spokane Comedy Club

6/28 J Whose Live Anyway?, The Fox Theater

6/28 J HoopProv, Blue Door Theatre

6/29 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

6/29 William Lee Martin, Bing Crosby Theater

6/30 Jen Kober, Spokane Comedy Club

COMMUNITY

6/27-7/3 Expo ’74 Historic Timeline Outdoor Exhibit, Pavilion

6/27-7/3 Avista Water Power Walking Tour, Riverfront Park

6/27-7/3 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

6/27-29 Silver Valley Jeep Jamboree, Mullan, Idaho

6/28 J Our Stories: Black Families in Spokane, The MAC

6/29-30 Spokane Herbal Faire, West Central Episcopal Mission

6/29 J El Mercadito, A.M. Cannon Park

6/29 J Pride in Perry 2024

6/29 Coeur d’Azure Yacht Party, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

7/3 J Moonshine Artisan Night Market & Moonlit Movies, Commellini Estate

FILM

6/27-7/3 J Expo ’74: Films from the Vault, The MAC

6/27-7/3 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

6/27 It’s Such a Beautiful Day + ME, The Kenworthy

6/28 Cinema Classics: High Noon, The Kenworthy 6/28 J Movies in the Park: Big Hero 6, Hilde Kellogg Park

6/28 Brokeback Mountain, Panida Theater

6/29 Farmers Market Cartoons, The Kenworthy

6/29-30 Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

6/29 Missouri Breaks: The Ballad of Missouri Bill, Panida Theater

7/3 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: The Boy and the Heron, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

6/27 Dry Fly Distillery Tour & Tasting

6/27 Polynesian Night, The Culinary Stone

6/28 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

6/28 80’s BBQ Bash: Gigawatt, The Culinary Stone

6/30 Sunday Brunch Cruises, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

7/2 J Riverfront Eats, Riverfront Park

MUSIC

6/27 Karma’s Circle, Stella’s on the Hill

6/27 Time Baby, Coeur d’Alene Park

6/27 Datura, Cruel Velvet, Blunt Skulls, Sex With Seneca, The Big Dipper

6/28-30 Sandpoint Summerfest, Eureka Mountain Center

6/28 Club Blush, The Chameleon

6/29 J Emo Nite, Knitting Factory

6/29 Promiscuous: 2000s Club Bangers, The Chameleon

6/29 J Noah Kahan, Gorge Amphitheater

6/29 Vincent Neil Emerson, District Bar

6/29 The Cole Show, Schweitzer

6/30 Sara Brown Band, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

6/30 Vandoliers, Eli Howard & the Grater Good, The District Bar

6/30 J Cage The Elephant, Young the Giant, Bakar, Northern Quest

7/2 Grace Potter, Spokane Tribe Casino

7/3 July-O-Ween: Puddy Knife, Psychic Death, Peru Resh, Blunt Skulls, Berserk

7/3 Bands on Boats: Kelly Hughes Band, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

7/3 MarchFourth Marching Band, Spokane Tribe Casino

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

6/27-29 Silver Kings Hard Enduro, Silver

6/28-29 J Expo 50 Kayaking on the Spokane River

6/29-30 J Hoopfest 2024, Downtown Spokane

6/29 J Spokane Velocity vs. Northern Colorado Hailstorm, One Spokane Stadium

6/30 Mountain Magic 5, 10, 25k Trail Race, Mt. Spokane State Park

6/30 All About Native Plants, Ritters

6/30 Kayak Sacheen Lake, Yoke’s Fresh Market

7/1-3 Go Play Passport Program, Spokane Valley

7/3 J Monthly Bird Walk, Doris Morrison Learning Center

7/3 Weed Wednesday Walks, USFS Upper Wolf Trail

THEATER

6/27 Shibari N Flow Pride, The Chameleon

6/27-30 J The (Same) Incident, Stage Left Theater

6/27-30 J South Pacific, University High School (through July 7)

6/28-7/3 J Fiddler on the Roof, Schuler Performing Arts Center (through July 7)

6/28-7/1 Paranormal Cirque, Spokane Valley Mall

VISUAL ARTS

6/27-29 J Heart of the Country, KolvaSullivan Gallery 6/27-28 J Faculty and Student Show, Spokane Art School

6/27-7/3 J Pride Exhibition, Emerge

6/27-29 J Beyond Hope, Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU

6/27-29 Leela Francis & Shelly Matthews, Pottery Place Plus

6/27-29 Christina Rothe: Abstract Works with Meaning, William Grant Gallery & Framing

6/27-29 Felisa Carranza & Kurt Carlson: Backward and Forward, New Moon Art Gallery

6/27-30 J Jeff Weir: Go West,The MAC

6/27-30 J River Ridge Association of Fine Arts Expo ‘74 Show, Indaba Coffee Roasters (Riverside)

6/27-30 Between Borders: Folklife Through the Coeur d’Alenes, The Art Spirit Gallery

6/27 Hand Embroidery: Mason Jar with Flowers, Spokane Art School

6/27 Yarn in the Park, East City Park

6/29-7/3 J Woman, Artist, Catalyst: Art from the Permanent Collection, The MAC 7/2 J Illuminated Manuscripts, Spokane Art School

WORDS

6/27-7/3 J Echoes of Expo, Riverfront Park

6/27 Naturebrary, Sandpoint Library

6/27 Harmony Writers Group, Liberty Park Library

6/28 Paw Patrol Storytime, Shadle Library

7/2 Trails and Tales, Sandpoint Library. 7/2 J Sandpoint StoryMakers, Sandpoint Library 7/2 Teen Write Club, Spark Central

Opener: The Kindreds JAZZ

BAND/SWING Opener: AP Collective

FUSION Opener: Dayan Kai

Opener: Renei Yarrow COUNTRY/ROCK/POP

Opener: Dag Zaggenz

FOLK/ROCK

Opener: The Weddle Twins

Opener: Shiraz

COMEDY

7/5-6 Cory Michaelis, Spokane Comedy Club

7/5 J HoopProv, Blue Door Theatre

7/6 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

7/7 Jason Ellis, Spokane Comedy Club

COMMUNITY

7/4 Expo ’74 Historic Timeline Outdoor Exhibit, Pavilion at Riverfront

7/4 Silver Mountain 4th of July, Silver Mountain Resort

7/4 4th of July Community Parade, Alpine Shores

7/4-10 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

7/4-10 J It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC

Vault, The MAC

7/4-10 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

7/4-6 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: The Boy and the Heron, Garland Theater

7/6 Farmers Market Cartoons, The Kenworthy

7/6-7 Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

7/10 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Spirited Away, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

7/5 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

7/5 BBQ & Bands: Just Plain Darin, The Culinary Stone

7/6 J Coeur d’Alene Brewfest,

plays July 3-6 as part of the Garland’s Summer of Studio Ghibli series.

JULY 11-17 JULY 11-17

COMEDY

7/11 Tyler Fischer, Spokane Comedy Club

7/12-13 Craig Conant, Spokane Comedy Club

7/12 J Finders Creepers, Blue Door

7/13 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

7/14 Uncle Lazer, Spokane Comedy Club

7/16 J Colin Jost, The Fox Theater

7/17 Improv, Pend Oreille Playhouse

COMMUNITY

7/11-17 All Fairs Lead To Expo ’74, Spokane Valley Heritage Museum

7/11 Minion Mania, Deer Park Library

7/12-14 J Post Falls Festival, Q’Emiln Park

7/12-14 Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

7/13-14 J Sandpoint Pride 2024

7/13-14 J Evening Light Lavender Festival, Evening Light Lavender

7/13-14 Feed the Buffalo, Win-Tur Bison Farm

7/13 J Scoops and Bowls, Manito Park

7/13 Plastic-Free Pop-Up, Spokane Refillery

7/14 J CDA Flea Market, Roosevelt Inn

7/17 Many Spirits Community, Shadle Library

7/17 J Moonshine Artisan Night Market & Moonlit Movies, Commellini Estate

FILM

7/11-17 J Expo ’74: Films from the Vault, The MAC

7/11-17 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

7/11-13 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Spirited Away, Garland Theater

7/12 J Movies in the Park: Back to the Future, Q’Emiln Park

7/13 Farmers Market Cartoons, Kenworthy

7/13-14 Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

7/17 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Nausicaa and the Valley of the Wind, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

7/11-13 J Crave! Northwest, CenterPlace

7/12 Making Snacks from Around the World, Moran Prairie Library

7/12 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

7/12 Culinary Tour of the Palouse: South Indian Cuisine, Dahmen Barn

7/12 BBQ & Bands: Faron Gilbert, The Culinary Stone

7/13 J Food As Farmacy, Genesis Mountain Farm

7/14 Sunday Brunch Cruises, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

7/16 J Riverfront Eats, Riverfront Park

MUSIC

7/15 Monday Night Blues Jam with John

Firshi, Eichardt’s Pub

7/17 Gil Rivas, Kendall Yards

7/17 Dallas Kay, True Legends Grill

7/11 Jason Evans, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

7/11 Nu Jack City, Son of Brad, Riverstone Park

7/11 Villa Blues ‘N Jazz, CdA Park

7/11-14 J Wallace Blues Festival

7/12 J Margo Cilker, Junior the Band, The District Bar

7/12 Heat Speak, Pend d’Oreille Winery

7/12 J Megan Moroney, Logan Crosby, Pavilion at Riverfront

7/12 Gryffin vs. Illenium Tribute Dance Night, The Chameleon

7/13 Perry Wayne, Psyian, Druid, Schraeder, The Chameleon

7/13 J Blitzen Trapper, LouisaStancioff, The District Bar

7/13 White Trash Romeo, Children of the Sun, Sight Received, Leviticuss, The Big Dipper

7/14 J Blink-182, Pierce the Veil, Gorge Amphitheater

7/14 J Starcourt, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

7/15 J Lyle Lovett and his Large Band, The Fox Theater

7/17 Pony Bradshaw, The District Bar

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

7/11 Riverfront Moves: Yoga, Spokane Tribal Gathering Place

7/11-14 Spokane Indians vs. Everett Aquasox, Avista Stadium

7/12 Citizen Science, Pine Street Woods

7/15 J Run for Youth Fun Fest, Manito Park

7/12 J Moonlight Paddleboarding:

Amber Lake, Finch Arboretum

7/13-14 The Shootout at Silver Mountain, Silver Mountain Resort

7/13 Inflatable Kayaking on the Spokane River, TJ Meenach Take Out

7/13 Riverfront Moves: Yoga, Spokane Tribal Gathering Place

7/13 J Sabotage 2024: Roller Derby Double Header, Eastern Washington University

7/15 J HOOT Show: A Hawk & Owl Outreach Talk, North Spokane Library

7/16 Riverfront Moves: Vinyasa, Spokane Tribal Gathering Place

7/17 Weed Wednesday Walks, USFS Upper Wolf Trail

7/17 Let’s Hike: Wrenco Loop, Sandpoint Library

THEATER

7/12-17 J Heathers: The Musical, Spokane Civic Theatre

7/12-13 J Spokane Valley Summer Theatre Rising Stars, University High School

7/12-14 Master Harold...and the Boys, The Forge Theater

7/16 An R-Rated Magic Show, Bing Crosby Theater

VISUAL ARTS

7/11-17 Expo ’74 Show, Chase Gallery.

7/11-17 J Higher Ground, Washington State University

7/11 Reuse Workshop, Mobius

7/11-17 1924: Sovereignty, Leadership and the Indian Citizenship Act, The MAC 7/11-17 J Woman, Artist, Catalyst: Art

from the Permanent Collection, The MAC

7/11-17 Spokane Art School Expo ’74 50th Anniversary Show, Spokane Art School

7/11-17 J Janie Schnurr: Mix Media Magic, Helix Wines.

7/11-17 J Those Wacky Victorians, McConnell Mansion

7/11 Yarn in the Park, East City Park. 7/12-13 Becky Busi: Memory Metanoia, Saranac Art Projects

7/12-13 Mary Farrell: Look + Listen, Saranac Art Projects.

7/12 J Second Friday Artwalk, Downtown Coeur d’Alene

7/12 J Emerge Block Party, Emerge 7/13 Gelli Printing for Collage and Mixed Media, Spokane Art School

7/16 J Illuminated Manuscripts, Spokane Art School

WORDS

7/11 Harmony Writers Group, Liberty Park Library

7/13 J Mermaid Storytime, Auntie’s

7/14 J Book Club with a Beverage, The MAC

7/16 Trails and Tales, Sandpoint Library

7/16 Book Bingo, Otis Orchards Library

7/16 Bluey Storytime, Central Library

7/16 Sandpoint StoryMakers, Sandpoint Library

7/16 Teen Write Club, Spark Central.

7/17 Preschool Storytime Play & Learn, South Hill Library

7/17 Book Adventures, Sandpoint Library

7/17 J Broken Mic, Neato Burrito (weekly)

COMEDY

7/18-20 J Ashley Gavin, Spokane Comedy Club

7/19 Finders Creepers, Blue Door Theatre

7/20 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

7/24 Improv, Pend Oreille Playhouse

7/24 Dope City Comedy Tour, Spokane Comedy Club

COMMUNITY

7/18-18 J Yoga & Mimosa Cruise, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

7/18-24 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

7/18 J Lilac City Live!, Central Library

7/19-20 Rendezvous in the Park, East City Park

7/19-21 Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

7/19 Touch a Truck, Orchard Park

7/19 Story Time at the Carrousel, Looff Carrousel

7/20 J 33 Artists Market, The Wonder Building

7/20 J Mend-It Cafe, Art Salvage

FILM

7/18 Third Thursday Matinee: The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser, The MAC

7/18-20 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Nausicaa and the Valley of the Wind, Garland Theater

7/19 J Spokane Valley Outdoor Movie: Elemental, Mirabeau Park Meadows

7/24 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Castle in the Sky, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

7/19 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

7/19 Making Snacks from Around the World, Deer Park Library

7/19 Paella & Palencia Pairing on the Patio, The Culinary Stone

7/20-21 J Northwest Winefest 2024, Schweitzer

7/21 Sunday Brunch Cruises, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

7/22 Making Snacks from Around the World, Spokane Valley Library

7/23 J Riverfront Eats, Riverfront Park

MUSIC

7/18 Kung Fu Vampire, DJ Clay, Riverside Place

7/20 The Ronaldos, Rocket Market

7/18 Blues & Brews, Bolo’s Bar & Grill

7/18 Robert Vaughn, Arbor Crest

7/18 Pamela Benton Band, The Kindreds, Riverstone Park

7/18 Free Whiskey, Coeur d’Alene Park

7/19 J Dwight Yoakam, The Mavericks, First Interstate Center for the Arts

7/19 War, Spokane Tribe Casino

7/19 Stagecoach West, Spokane Valley Eagles

7/20 J Primus, Coheed and Cambria, Guerilla Toss, Pavillion Park

7/20 J Cannonball, Browne’s Addition

7/21 SOJA, Sensamotion, Knitting Factory

7/21 J Soul Proprietor, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

7/23 J Judy Collins, Bing Crosby Theater

7/24 Teenage Bottlerocket, Jen Pop, The Big Dipper

7/24 Bachman-Turner Overdrive, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

7/24 The Red Clay Strays, Spokane Tribe Casino

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

7/18 Riverfront Moves: Barre, Riverfront Park

7/18 J Cherry Picker’s Trot & Pit Spit, Green Bluff Grange

7/19-21 Rosauers Open Invitational, Indian Canyon Golf Course

7/20 Trojan Golf Classic, Links Golf Course

7/20 Riverfront Moves: Yoga & Strength, Riverfront Park

7/20 Kayak & Hike Deep Creek Canyon

7/20 Spokenya, LifeCenter Church

7/20 J Summer Rooftop Yoga Series, Historic Davenport Hotel

7/21 Kayak and Cave Pend Oreille River, Yoke’s Fresh Market

7/21 J Hiawatha Full Moon Night Ride, Lookout Pass

7/22 Yoga For You, CdA Public Library

7/23 Riverfront Moves: Power Vinyasa, Spokane Tribal Gathering Place

THEATER

7/18 J Heathers: The Musical, Spokane Civic Theatre

7/18-24 J Spokane Shakespeare Society: As You Like It, locations vary

7/19-21 J The Secret Garden, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre

7/24 J Frozen, First Interstate Center for the Arts

VISUAL ARTS

7/18-24 Re: Present, Third Street Gallery

7/18-24 1924: Sovereignty, Leadership and the Indian Citizenship Act, The MAC

7/18-24 J Inland Northwest Juried Landscape Art Exhibition, Jundt Art Museum

7/18-24 J Woman, Artist, Catalyst: Art from the Permanent Collection, The MAC

7/18 Thursday Art Days, The Jacklin Center

7/18-24 Meet Your Maker, From Here

7/18-24 Janie Schnurr,Helix Wines

7/18-24 Drawing Fundamentals Class, Create Arts Center

7/18-20 Anna Abel, Elyse Hochstadt & Stacy Isenbarger, Terrain Gallery

7/18 Ceramic Glaze Workshop, Emerge

7/18 Hand Embroidery: A Mountain Sunrise, Spokane Art School

7/19 J Sip & Spin, Emerge.

7/20 Bunny Vase, Spokane Art School

7/20 Pine Needle Basket Making, Emerge

7/22 A Portrait in Charcoal, Spokane Art School

7/24 J Open Studio, The Hive

7/24 Drop In & Draw, Spark Central

WORDS

7/18 Naturebrary, Sandpoint Library

7/19 Bluey Storytime, Liberty Park Library

7/20 Stephanie Regalado: If They Only Knew, Auntie’s

7/24 J Broken Mic, Neato Burrito

Frozen comes to Spokane to cool us off from July 24-Aug. 4. DEEN VAN MEER PHOTO

DOG DAYS DOG DAYS

Why I’ll be giving my high-maintenance dogs the summer of their lives

BY HANNAH MUMM

When I think of a dog enjoying summer, I think of a golden retriever. I think of a golden retriever happily jumping into the lake to fetch a stick. I do not think of my dogs.

Millie and Charlotte are a pair of longhaired, blonde dachshunds. They are not known for their fun and friendly personalities; instead, the one time I had the audacity to take them to the lake, they spent the day digging large holes in the sand and barking loudly at passers-by. In their short lives, they have been called rats and ghastly hags and nuisances. They hate men (forgivable) and women (that, I can’t figure out). Nobody who has ever met them has wanted to see them ever again.

But I tell you this: I have never encountered two lovelier souls. They’re loyal and kind. They just also happen to be very, very, very high maintenance.

And because I’ve met some of your dogs, too, I know I’m not the only one without a sweet, friendly, All-American jock for a dog. So here’s to the “extra” dogs, the ones that won’t be attending Spokane Park’s Doggie Dip at the pools or hitting up dog parks or even going to the lake on public entry. Here are my favorite ways to give them a perfect summer, in ways they’re comfortable with.

SWEET TREATS

Millie and Charlotte love a little frozen pumpkin puree. Just place some in an ice cube tray, et voilà. Pumpkin also happens to be good for your dog’s digestive system, as long as it’s consumed in moderation.

POOL DAY

COOL OFF

Cooling vests are pieces of dog clothing designed to absorb and retain water, thus keeping your pup’s body temperature nice and low. Cooling vests of course help to keep your dogs comfortable, but they also help to stave off heat-related illnesses like heat stroke.

High-maintenance dogs still deserve to have water fun. Place a small, shallow kiddie pool in your backyard and don’t fill it too high — in my experience smaller dogs like to feel supported, like they can touch the ground.

FAIR FOOD - CARNIVAL - RODEO - TRACTOR PULLS

MAKE A SPLASH

Yep, splash pads for dogs are a thing. They’re small and made with anti-slip material. Your high-maintenance pup can have fun in the water in the comfort of their favorite place: their own home. n

- CONCERTS - DEMO DERBY - EXTREME

DOGS STUNT SHOW - MAGIC - LIVESTOCK - LIVE MUSIC - SHOPPING AND

Millie and Charlotte the blonde dachshunds.

HANNAH MUMM PHOTO

JULY 25-31 JULY 25-31

COMEDY

7/26-27 Adam Friedland, Spokane Comedy Club

7/26 J Finders Creepers, Blue Door Theatre

7/27-28 Late Night at the Playhouse, Pend Oreille Playhouse

7/27 Safari, Blue Door Theatre COMMUNITY

7/25-31 Summer Park Program, Terrace View, Valley Mission and Edgecliff Parks (Spokane Valley)

7/25-25 J Yoga & Mimosa Cruise, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

7/25-31 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

7/25-31 J It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC

7/26-27 J Hayden Days, McIntire Park

7/26-28 Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

7/27 J Glass On Grass Corvette Car Show, Mirabeau Park Meadows

7/27 Kids Free Market, True Hope Church

7/27 J El Mercadito, A.M. Cannon Park

7/27 Plastic-Free Pop-Up, Cover Me Carry Me

7/27-28 Feed the Buffalo, Win-Tur Bison Farm

7/28 Sharing the Dharma Day, Sravasti Abbey

7/30 Minion Mania, Spokane Valley Library

7/30 J Drop In & Zine, Spark Central

7/31 Kernel, Spark Central

7/31 J Moonshine Artisan Night Market & Moonlit Movies, Commellini Estate

FILM

7/25-31 J Expo ‘’74: Films from the Vault, The MAC

7/25-31 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

7/25-27 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Castle in the Sky, Garland Theater

7/26 J Movies in the Park: Wonka, Tullamore Park

7/27 Farmers Market Cartoons, The Kenworthy

7/27-28 Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

7/31 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Howl’s Moving Castle, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

7/25 Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, The Boneyard - Side Hustle Syrups

7/26 Making Snacks from Around the World, Cheney Library

7/26 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

7/26 BBQ & Bands: Jacob Maxwell, The Culinary Stone

7/30 J Riverfront Eats, Riverfront Park

MUSIC

7/25 J STRFKR, Holy Wave, Ruth Radelet, Knitting Factory

7/25 RCA, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

7/25 J Soul Proprietor, Coeur d’Alene Park

7/25 Telsa, Coeur d’Alene Casino

7/25 J Festival at Sandpoint: Blues Traveler, War Memorial Field

7/26 J Neil Young + Crazy Horse, Gorge Amphitheater

7/26 J Festival at Sandpoint: Violent Femmes, War Memorial Field

7/27 J Palouse Music Festival, Hayton Greene Park

7/27 Andrew Feriante: String Stories, The Jacklin Arts & Cultural Center

7/27 J Bush, Jerry Cantrell, Candlebox, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

7/27 J The Decemberists, Ratboys, Pavilion at Riverfront

7/27 J Festival at Sandpoint: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Big Boi, War Memorial Field

7/27 J Inland Sessions Live, Brick West Brewing Co.

7/31 J Festival at Sandpoint: Maren Morris, Delacey, War Memorial Field.

7/31 J Danielle Durack, The Bed Heads, Micah Clay Lubben, The Chameleon

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

7/25 Riverfront Moves: Barre, Riverfront Park

7/26-27 J The Showcase, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

7/27 J Spokane Velocity vs. Charlotte Independence, One Spokane Stadium

7/28 J Spokane Valley Cycle Celebration, Mirabeau Point Park

7/30 Riverfront Moves: Acro Yoga, Riverfront Park

7/30-31 J Spokane Indians vs. Hillsboro Hops, Avista Stadium

THEATER

7/25-31 J Frozen, First Interstate Center for the Arts

7/25-28 J The Secret Garden, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre

7/25-31 Spokane Shakespeare Society: As You Like It, locations vary

7/26-28 J Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, University High School

7/26-28 Love and Baseball, The Forge Theater

VISUAL ARTS

7/25-31 Expo ’74 Show, Chase Gallery

7/25-31 Re: Present, Third Street Gallery

7/25-31 J Woman, Artist, Catalyst: Art from the Permanent Collection, The MAC

7/27 J Ode to Pinch Pots, Spokane Art School

7/27 Macramé Workshop, Emerge

7/28 Intermediate Knitting, Spokane Art School

7/28 J Intermediate Crochet, Spokane Art School

7/29 Painting Light Session 2, Spokane Art School

7/29 J Tabletop Printmaking, Spokane Art School

7/30 Pebble Painting: Create a Scene, Argonne Library

7/31 J Sketching Historic Browne’s Addition, The MAC

Photo credit: Caden Butera

Maren Morris is at the Festival at Sandpoint on July 31. MORGAN FOITLE PHOTO

COMEDY

8/1-3 JP Sears, Spokane Comedy Club

8/1 J Funny Funny Funny Joke Joke Joke, Garland Theater

8/2 Multiple Choice, Blue Door Theatre

8/3 J Jeff Dunham, Coeur d’Alene Casino

8/3 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

8/7 Improv, Pend Oreille Playhouse

COMMUNITY

8/1-1 Yoga & Mimosa Cruise, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/1-7 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

8/1-7 J It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC

8/2-4 J Coeur d’Alene Street Fair, Downtown Coeur d’Alene

8/2-4 Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

8/2-4 J Taste of Coeur d’Alene, Coeur d’Alene City Park

8/2 Lammas Harvest Ceremony & Soundbath, Heart Space Yurt

8/3 J Spokane Scottish Highland Games, Spokane County Fair & Expo Center

8/3 Chicago to Seattle: World’s Fairs at

the Turn of the Century, The MAC

8/3-4 Feed the Buffalo, Win-Tur Bison Farm

8/3 J Drop In & RPG, Spark Central

8/7 Our Water: An Incredible Journey, North Spokane Library

8/7 Many Spirits Community, Shadle Library

8/7 Kernel, Spark Central

8/7 J Moonshine Artisan Night Market & Moonlit Movies, Commellini Estate

FILM

8/1-7 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

8/1-3 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Howl’s Moving Castle, Garland Theater

8/3 Farmers Market Cartoons, The Kenworthy

8/3-4 Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

8/4 J Festival at Sandpoint: How to Train Your Dragon In Concert, War Memorial Field

8/7 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Kiki’s Delivery Service, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

8/1 Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, The Boneyard - Side Hustle Syrups

8/2 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

8/2 BBQ & Bands: Faron Gilbert, The Culinary Stone

8/4 Sunday Brunch Cruise, CdA Resort

8/6 J Riverfront Eats, Riverfront Park

8/7 Our Garbage: Food Waste & The Wonder of Worms, Argonne Library

MUSIC

8/1 Current Flow, Arbor Crest

8/1 Front Porch Rockers, CdA Park

8/1 Festival at Sandpoint: Lee Brice, Madeline Merlo, War Memorial Field

8/2 J Festival at Sandpoint: Jason Mraz & the Superband, Molly Miller Trio, War Memorial Field

8/2 Australian Pink Floyd, The Fox Theater

8/2-4 J Watershed, Gorge Amphitheater

8/3 J Festival at Sandpoint: Colbie Caillat, Gavin DeGraw, War Memorial Field

8/4 J Ween, Pavilion at Riverfront

8/4 Liliac, The Chameleon

8/6 Reign of Z, Beautiful Skeletons, The Chameleon

8/7 Snacks at Midnight, The Nest

8/7 Melissa Carper, The District Bar

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

8/1-4 Spokane Indians vs. Hillsboro Hops, Avista Stadium

8/1 Riverfront Moves: Total Body Conditioning, Pavilion

8/2-4 Northwest Cup 2024, Silver Mountain Resort

8/3-4 J Spike & Dig, Dwight Merkel Sports Complex

8/3 Riverfront Moves: Cardio Dance, Riverfront Park

8/3 Sunset Kayaking: Plese Flats

8/3 J Spokane Midnight Century, The Elk Public House

8/4 Kayak Fishtrap Lake, John A. Finch Arboretum

THEATER

8/1-4 J Frozen, First Interstate Center for the Arts

8/1-4 Spokane Shakespeare Society: As You Like It, locations vary

8/1-4 J Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, University High School

8/2-4 J Pippin, Stage Left Theater

8/2-4 J Legally Blonde, Kroc Center

8/2-4 Love and Baseball, The Forge Theater

8/3-4 Snow White, Hartung Theater

VISUAL ARTS

8/1-7 J Woman, Artist, Catalyst: Art from the Permanent Collection, The MAC

8/1-7 Inland Northwest Juried Landscape Art Exhibition, Jundt Art Museum

8/2 J First Friday, Spokane

8/2-4 J 56th Annual Art on the Green, North Idaho College

8/2-7 Ildikó Kalapács: Symbiosis and Co-existence, Spokane Art School

8/2-7 Trackside Studio Sale

8/2-7 Miles Toland, Entropy

8/2-3 J Carrie Scozzaro, Emma Noyes, Helen Parsons, Kay O’Rourke, Lance Sinnema, May Kytonen & Tracy Poindexter-Canton, Terrain Gallery

WORDS

8/2 3 Minute Mic, Auntie’s Bookstore 8/7 Daniel Tiger Storytime, Hillyard Library

COMEDY

8/9-10 J Bob the Drag Queen, Spokane Comedy Club

8/9 J Multiple Choice, Blue Door Theatre

8/10 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

8/14 Improv, Pend Oreille Playhouse COMMUNITY

8/8 Yoga & Mimosa Cruise, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/8-14 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

8/8-14 J It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC

8/8-14 All Fairs Lead To Expo ’74, Spokane Valley Heritage Museum

8/8 Garfield Bigger Than Life, Airway Heights Library

8/8 Minecraft Club, Spark Central

8/8 Free Immigration Clinic, Latinos en Spokane

8/8 Make Fabric Dolls for Kids in Need, Liberty Park Library

8/9-11 Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

8/10 J The Hidden Gem Fest, Crystal Gold Mine & RV Park

8/10 J Educators’ Day, Art Salvage

8/10-11 Feed the Buffalo, Win-Tur Bison Farm

8/10 Wild West Yacht Party, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/11 J CDA Flea Market, Roosevelt Inn

8/13-14 J Bonner County Fair, Bonner County Fairgrounds

8/13-14 J Grant County Fair, Grant County Fairgrounds

8/14 Kernel, Spark Central

8/14 J Moonshine Artisan Night Market & Moonlit Movies, Commellini Estate

FILM

8/8-14 J Expo ’74: Films from the Vault, The MAC

8/8-14 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

8/8-10 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Kiki’s Delivery Service, Garland Theater

8/9 J Spokane Valley Outdoor Movie: Ratatouille, Mirabeau Point Park

8/10 Farmers Market Cartoons, The Kenworthy

8/10-11 Garland Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

8/14 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: My Neighbor Totoro, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

8/8 Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, The Boneyard - Side Hustle Syrups

8/9 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

8/9 J Grainmaker Brewfest, YaYa Brewing Company

8/9 BBQ & Bands: Carli Osika, The Culinary Stone

8/10 J Brewsfest, Silver Mountain Resort

8/10-11 Huckleberry Festival, Trout Creek

8/11 Sunday Brunch Cruises, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/13 J Riverfront Eats, Riverfront Park

MUSIC

8/8 Carli Osika, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

8/8 Milonga, Dag Zaggenz, Riverstone Park

8/8 Lucky Losers, Coeur d’Alene Park

8/9 Robert Vaughn, Helix Wines

8/9 J Outlaw Music Festival: Willie Nelson & Family, Bob Dylan, John Mellencamp, Brittney Spencer, One Spokane Stadium

8/9 MC Chris, Crunk Witch, The Big Dipper

8/9-11 J Blue Waters Bluegrass Festival, Medical Lake Waterfront Park

8/10 J Moscow Mountain Music Fest, Latah County Fairgrounds

8/10 J Outlaw Music Festival: Willie Nelson & Family, Bob Dylan, John Mellencamp, Billy Strings, Brittney Spencer, Gorge Amphitheater

8/10 Kaitlyn Wiens, Schweitzer

8/10 Meghan Sullivan, Noah’s Canteen

8/10 Indy & Taylor, Rocket Market

8/10 J Shakey Graves, Knitting Factory

8/11 J King Buzzo, Trevor Dunn, JD Pinkus, Knitting Factory

8/11 J Donny Osmond, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

8/11 Diego Romero Band, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

8/13 J Sammy Hagar, Loverboy, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

8/13 Kai & Friends, Rocket Market

8/14 Heat Speak, The Nest

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

8/8-14 Greater Spokane Parks Challenge

8/8-14 Open Play Pickleball, HUB Sports Center

8/8 J Mild Riders Thursday Night Rides, Lunarium

8/8 Riverfront Moves: Barre, Riverfront Park

8/9 J Fit Kids Day, Shaw Middle School

8/9 Citizen Science, Pine Street Woods.

8/10 J Coeur d’Alene Triathlon, Downtown Coeur d’Alene

8/10 Spokane River Kayak Tour, Nine Mile Dam

8/10 Riverfront Moves: Yoga, Riverfront Park

8/13 J Spokane Velocity vs. Northern Colorado Hailstorm, One Spokane Stadium

8/13 Riverfront Moves: Pilates, Pavilion at Riverfront

8/13-14 J Spokane Indians vs. Vancouver Canadians, Avista Stadium

8/14 Weed Wednesday Walks, USFS Upper Wolf Trail

THEATER

8/8-11 J Pippin, Stage Left Theater

8/8 J Legally Blonde, Kroc Center

8/8-11 J Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, University High School

8/9-11 J Little Shop of Horrors, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre

8/10 J RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars LIVE, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

VISUAL ARTS

8/8-14 Expo ’74 Show, Chase Gallery.

8/8-14 Re: Present, Third Street Gallery

8/8-14 J Ildikó Kalapács: Symbiosis and Co-existence, Spokane Art School

8/8 Reuse Workshop, Mobius

8/8-14 1924: Sovereignty, Leadership and the Indian Citizenship Act, The MAC

8/8-14 Nancy Rothwell: Leaves Talk, Colfax Library

8/8-14 J Woman, Artist, Catalyst: Art from the Permanent Collection, The MAC

8/8-14 Inland Northwest Juried Landscape Art Exhibition, Jundt Art Museum

8/8 Thursday Art Days, The Jacklin Center

8/8-14 Meet Your Maker, From Here

8/8-14 Miles Toland, Entropy

8/8-14 J Trackside Studio Sale, Trackside Studio

8/8-14 Those Wacky Victorians, McConnell Mansion

8/8 Pebble Painting: Create a Scene, Cheney Library

8/8-10 J Carrie Scozzaro, Emma Noyes, Helen Parsons, Kay O’Rourke, Lance Sinnema, May Kytonen & Tracy PoindexterCanton, Terrain Gallery

8/8 Teen Art Nights, The Jacklin Center

8/9-14 J Jamie Rome Crain & Terren Weirick, Emerge

8/9 Second Friday Artwalk, Downtown Coeur d’Alene

COMEDY

8/15-17 J Darrell Hammond, Spokane Comedy Club

8/16 Multiple Choice, Blue Door Theatre

8/17 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

8/18 Shawn Gardini, Spokane Comedy Club

8/21 Improv, Pend Oreille Playhouse COMMUNITY

8/15-17 Bonner County Fair, Bonner County Fairgrounds

8/15-18 J Pend Oreille County Fair & Rodeo, Pend Oreille County Fairgrounds

8/15-17 Grant County Fair, Grant County Fairgrounds

8/15-21 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

8/15-15 Yoga & Mimosa Cruise, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/15-21 It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC

8/16 J North Idaho State Fair, Kootenai County Fairgrounds

8/16-18 Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

8/16 Story Time at the Carrousel, Looff Carrousel

8/17-18 J Wallce Huckleberry Festival & Fun Run

8/17 J Unity in the Community, Riverfront Park

8/17 Historic Seventh Avenue Tours, Corbin Art Center

8/17 J 33 Artists Market, The Wonder Building

8/17-18 Feed the Buffalo, Win-Tur Bison Farm

8/18 Sharing the Dharma Day, Sravasti Abbey

8/20-20 J Mobius Mobile Planetarium: Destination Solar System, Spokane Valley Library

8/21 Drop-in and Draw, Paint, Knit, Stitch, The Hive

8/21 J Moonshine Artisan Night Market & Moonlit Movies, Commellini Estate

FILM

8/15-21 J Expo ’74: Films from the Vault, The MAC

8/15-21 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

8/15 Third Thursday Matinee: Mon Oncle Antoine, The MAC

8/15-17 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: My Neighbor Totoro, Garland Theater

8/17 Farmers Market Cartoons, The Kenworthy

8/17-18 Garland Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

8/21 Summer of Studio Ghibli: Princess Mononoke, Garland Theater

FOOD

& DRINK

8/15 Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, The Boneyard - Side Hustle Syrups

8/16 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

8/16 BBQ & Bands: The Ronaldos, The Culinary Stone

8/17 J National Lentil Festival, Reaney Park Pullman

8/17 J Ales for the Trail, Coeur d’Alene City Park

8/18 Nova Kaine’s Don’t Tell Mama Cabaret & Drag Brunch, Highball

8/18 Sunday Brunch Cruises, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/20 J Riverfront Eats, Riverfront Park

MUSIC

8/15 Justin James Band, RCA, Riverstone Park

8/15 Nu Jack City, Coeur d’Alene Park

8/15 J Kane Brown, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

8/15 Treaty Oak Revival, Knitting Factory

8/16 J John Fogerty, George Thorogood and the Destroyers, Hearty Har, Pavilion at Riverfront

8/16 J Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, The Vindys, Northern Quest

8/16 J Built to Spill, Knitting Factory

8/17 J Alex G, Julie, Knitting Factory

8/17 J Michael Franti & Spearhead, Citizen Cope, Bombargo, Northern Quest

8/18 Monthly Drum Circle, Harmony Woods Retreat Center

8/19 Monday Night Blues Jam with John Firshi, Eichardt’s Pub

8/18 Soul Proprietor, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

8/19 K.Flay, Knitting Factory

8/21 J Alvvays, The Beths, Knitting

Factory

8/21 J Falling In Reverse, Dance Gavin Dance, Black Veil Brides, Tech N9ne, Nathan James, Northern Quest

8/21 Soul Proprietor, The Nest

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

8/15-21 Greater Spokane Parks Challenge

8/15 Riverfront Moves: Cardio Dance, Riverfront Park

8/15-21 Open Play Pickleball, HUB Sports Center

8/15 J Mild Riders Thursday Night Rides, Lunarium

8/15-18 J Spokane Indians vs. Vancouver Canadians, Avista Stadium

8/17 Summer Rooftop Yoga Series, Historic Davenport Hotel

8/17 J Spokane Zephyr vs. Fort Lauderdale United, ONE Spokane Stadium

8/17 J Moonlight Paddleboarding: Badger Lake, Finch Arboretum

8/18 Kayak and Coffee: Spokane River Upriver Dam

8/19 Yoga for You, Coeur d’Alene Library

8/19 J Hiawatha Full Moon Night Ride, Lookout Pass

8/20 Riverfront Moves: Yoga & Strength, Riverfront Park

THEATER

8/15-18 J Pippin, Stage Left Theater

8/15-18 J Little Shop of Horrors, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre

8/16-18 J One Act Play Festival, Pend Oreille Playhouse

8/17 J Montana Shakespeare in the Parks: The Winter’s Tale, Pavillion Park

VISUAL ARTS

8/15-21 Re: Present, Third Street Gallery

8/15-21 Expo ’74 Show, Chase Gallery

8/15-21 J Higher Ground, Washington State University

8/15-21 1924: Sovereignty, Leadership and the Indian Citizenship Act, The MAC

8/15-21 Nancy Rothwell: Leaves Talk, Colfax Library

8/15-21 J Jamie Rome Crain & Terren Weirick, Emerge

8/15-21 Inland Northwest Juried Landscape Art Exhibition, Jundt 8/15-21 J Ildikó Kalapács: Symbiosis & Co-existence, Spokane Art School

8/15 Thursday Art Days, The Jacklin Arts & Cultural Center

8/15-21 Miles Toland, Entropy

8/15-21 Studio Sale, Trackside Studio

8/15-21 Those Wacky Victorians, McConnell Mansion

8/15-17 J Carrie Scozzaro, Emma Noyes, Helen Parsons, Kay O’Rourke, Lance Sinnema, May Kytonen & Tracy PoindexterCanton, Terrain Gallery

8/16 Art Club, Spark Central

8/17-19 Bring Your Own Piece Paint Class, Paint In My Hair

8/20 Tuesday Gallery Talks, The MAC 8/20 J Heartistry: Artistic Wellbeing, Spark Central

8/20 Crocheting Friends, Clark Fork 8/21 Spinners Workshop, Create Arts Center

Join us for the 30th Annual

Saturday, August 17th • 10am - 3pm • Riverfront Park, Spokane

COMEDY

8/22-23 DC Young Fly, Spokane Comedy Club

8/23-25 J The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival, ONE Spokane Stadium

8/23 Multiple Choice, Blue Door Theatre

8/24 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

8/26 Open Mic Monday, Lyyv Entertainment

8/28 Improv, Pend Oreille Playhouse

COMMUNITY

8/22-25 J Palouse Pride, Moscow

8/22-28 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

8/22-22 Yoga & Mimosa Cruise, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/22-28 J It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC

8/22-28 J All Fairs Lead To Expo ’74, Spokane Valley Heritage Museum

8/23-25 Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

8/23-24 Role-Playing Game Drop In, RPG Community Center

8/24 J Airway Heights Day, Sunset Park

8/24 J Coeur d’Con, Coeur d’Alene Public Library

8/24-25 Feed the Buffalo, Win-Tur Bison Farm

8/27-27 Mobius Mobile Planetarium: Destination Solar System, North Spokane Library

8/28 Kernel, Spark Central

8/28 J Moonshine Artisan Night Market & Moonlit Movies, Commellini Estate

FILM

8/22-28 J Expo ’74: Films from the Vault, The MAC

8/22-28 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

8/22-24 J Summer of Studio Ghibli: Princess Mononoke, Garland Theater

8/24 Farmers Market Cartoons, The Kenworthy

8/24-25 Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

8/22 Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, The Boneyard - Side Hustle Syrups

8/23 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

8/23 BBQ & Bands: Brittany’s House, The Culinary Stone

8/24-25 J Tacos y Tequlia Festival, Downtown Spokane

8/25 Sunday Brunch Cruises, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/25 Salmon Barbecue Dinner Picnic, Western Dance Center

8/28-9/2 J Pig Out in the Park, Riverfront Park

MUSIC

8/22 J Joy Oladokun, Knitting Factory

8/23 J Tyler Childers, Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, Gorge Amphitheater

8/23 Sorcia, Red Mesa, Sonic Druid, The Big Dipper

8/23 Steel Pulse, DJ Killer B, Spokane Tribe Casino

8/23 X, Knitting Factory

8/24 Ben Vogel, Rocket Market

8/24 Midland, Northern Quest

8/25 Alexa Wildish and Lennon VanderDoes, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

8/28 J KALEO, Chance Peña, Northern Quest

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

8/22-28 Greater Spokane Parks Challenge

8/22-25 J Gem State Stampede, Kootenai County Fairgrounds.

8/22-28 Open Play Pickleball, HUB Sports Center. (ongoing)

8/22 J Mild Riders Thursday Night Rides, Lunarium

8/22 Riverfront Moves: Barre, Riverfront Park

8/25 J Paws in the Pool, Valley Mission Pool

8/26 Yoga For You, Coeur d’Alene Public Library

8/27 Brick West Run Club, Brick West Brewing Co.

8/27-28 J Spokane Indians vs. Tri-City Americans, Avista Stadium

VISUAL ARTS

8/22-28 Expo ’74 Show, Chase Gallery

8/22-28 Re: Present, Third Street Gallery

8/22-28 J Higher Ground, Washington State University

8/22-28 J Woman, Artist, Catalyst, The MAC

8/22-28 Jamie Rome Crain & Terren Weirick, Emerge.

8/22-28 Nancy Rothwell: Leaves Talk, Colfax Library

8/22-24 J Inland Northwest Juried Landscape Art Exhibition, Jundt Art Museum

8/22-28 Ildikó Kalapács: Symbiosis and Co-existence, Spokane Art School

8/22-28 J Meet Your Maker, From Here

8/22-28 J Trackside Studio Sale

8/22-28 Miles Toland, Entropy

8/22-28 Those Wacky Victorians, McConnell Mansion

8/22-24 J Carrie Scozzaro, Emma Noyes, Helen Parsons, Kay O’Rourke, Lance Sinnema, May Kytonen & Tracy PoindexterCanton, Terrain Gallery

8/23 Art Club, Spark Central

8/24-25 J Art & Glass Fest, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

8/24 Macramé Workshop, Emerge

8/24-26 Bring Your Own Piece Paint Class, Paint In My Hair

8/28 J Open Studio, The Hive 8/28 Paint and Sip, The MAC

WORDS

8/22 Harmony Writers Group, Liberty Park Library

8/22 Drop In & Write, Spark Central

8/24 J UI MFA Program 30th Anniversary, Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute

8/27 Sandpoint StoryMakers, Sandpoint Library

8/27 Teen Write Club, Spark Central 8/28 Stories from the Vault: Dynamite, Spies and Bull Pens, The MAC 8/28 J Broken Mic, Neato Burrito 8/28 Poetry After Dark, Spark Central

The Spokane Indians take on the Tri-City Americans Aug. 27-28. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

8/30-9/2 J Under the Freeway Flea Market, Northern Pacific Depot

8/30-9/1 J Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

MUSIC

8/29 Son of Brad, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

8/29-9/3 Greater Spokane Parks Challenge

8/29-9/4 Meet Your Maker, From Here

8/29-30 J Trackside Studio Sale

AUG. 29SEPT. 4

AUG. 29SEPT. 4

COMEDY

8/29 Don McMillan, Spokane Comedy Club

8/30-31 Ali Siddiq, Spokane Comedy Club

8/30 J Multiple Choice, Blue Door Theatre

8/31 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

9/1 Geoffry Asmus, Spokane Comedy Club

9/1 Luis J. Gomez, Spokane Comedy Club

9/3 New Talent Tuesdays, Spokane Comedy Club

9/4 Improv, Pend Oreille Playhouse

COMMUNITY

8/29-9/4 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

8/29-29 Yoga & Mimosa Cruise, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/29-9/4 J It Happened Here: Expo ‘74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC

8/29-31 All Fairs Lead To Expo ‘74, Spokane Valley Heritage Museum

8/30-9/2 Labor Day Concentration Retreat, Sravasti Abbey

8/31-9/1 J Coaster Classic Car Show, Silverwood Theme Park

8/31 J El Mercadito, A.M. Cannon Park

8/31-9/1 Feed the Buffalo, Win-Tur Bison Farm

9/1-4 J Small Business Bingo, Page 42 Bookstore

9/1 Pirate Yacht Party, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

FILM

8/29-9/4 J Expo ‘74: Films from the Vault, The MAC

8/29-9/4 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

8/31 Farmers Market Cartoons, The Kenworthy

8/31-9/1 Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

8/29-9/2 J Pig Out in the Park, Riverfront Park

8/29 Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, The Boneyard - Side Hustle Syrups

8/30-9/2 J Fall Fest 2024, Schweitzer. 8/30 J Ride & Dine Series, Silver Mountain Resort

8/30 BBQ & Bands: Dallas Kay, The Culinary Stone

9/1 Nova Kaine’s Don’t Tell Mama Cabaret & Drag Brunch, Highball

9/1 Sunday Brunch Cruises, The Coeur d’Alene Resort

8/29 Diego Romero Band, Shiraz, Riverstone Park

8/29 Five Finger Death Punch, Marilyn Manson, Slaughter to Prevail, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

8/30 Howie King, True Legends Grill

8/30-9/1 J Dave Matthews Band, Gorge Amphitheater

8/30-9/1 Tumbleweed Music Festival, Howard Amon Park

8/30 Ice Nine Kills, In This Moment, Avatar, TX2, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

8/30 J Jelly Roll, Warren Zeiders, Alexandra Kay, Spokane Arena

8/31 J Lindsey Stirling, Saint Motel, Northern Quest Resort & Casino

8/31 Dante D’Angelo, Rocket Market

8/31 J Lud Cramer Memorial Concert, Pavillion Park

9/1 Atomic Jive Band, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

9/1 Frank Turner & the Sleeping Souls, Knitting Factory

9/2 J Spokane Symphony Labor Day Concert, Comstock Park

9/2 Monday Night Blues Jam with John Firshi, Eichardt’s Pub

9/3 Swing Lounge Live Music Tuesdays, Swing Lounge

9/4 Red Room Lounge Jam, Red Room Lounge

9/4 Wyatt Woods, The Nest

9/4 Musha Marimba, The Nest

9/4 Daniel Hall, Kendall Yards

9/4 Chris Anderson, Kendall Yards

8/29-9/4 Open Play Pickleball, HUB Sports Center

8/29 J Mild Riders Thursday Night Rides, Lunarium

8/29-9/1 J Spokane Indians vs. TriCity Americans, Avista Stadium

9/2 Yoga For You, CdA Public Library

9/3 Tai Chi & Qi Gong, CdALibrary

9/3 Brick West Run Club, Brick West Brewing Co.

9/4 Monthly Bird Walk, Doris Morrison Learning Center

9/4 Practical Centering Yoga, The MAC

9/4 J Spokane Velocity vs. Union Omaha, One Spokane Stadium

VISUAL ARTS

8/29-30 Expo ‘74 Show, Chase Gallery.

8/29 Re: Present, Third Street Gallery.

8/29-9/4 J Higher Ground: An Exhibition of Art, Ephemera and Form, Washington State University

8/29-9/4 J Woman, Artist, Catalyst: Art from the Permanent Collection, The MAC

8/29-9/4 Jamie Rome Crain & Terren Weirick, Emerge

8/29-9/4 1924: Sovereignty, Leadership and the Indian Citizenship Act, The MAC

8/29-30 Nancy Rothwell: Leaves Talk, Colfax Library

8/29-30 J Ildikó Kalapács: Symbiosis and Co-existence, Spokane Art School

8/29-31 Miles Toland, Entropy. 8/29-9/4 Those Wacky Victorians, McConnell Mansion

8/29-9/4 Drawing Fundamentals Class, Create Arts Center

8/31 INMOD Sew Day, Corbin Senior Center

8/31-9/2 Bring Your Own Piece Paint Class, Paint In My Hair 9/1 Children’s Painting Lessons, Spokane Art Supply

9/3 Tuesday Painting with Friends, Spokane Art Supply

9/3 Tuesday Gallery Talks, The MAC 9/3 J Heartistry: Artistic Wellbeing, Spark Central 9/3 Crocheting Friends, Clark Fork 9/4 Spinners Workshop, Create Arts Center

9/4 Tots Messy Art, Create Arts Center

9/4 J Open Studio, The Hive 9/4 Drop In & Draw, Spark Central

WORDS

8/29 Drop In & Write, Spark Central

8/30-9/4 Barton English Language Classes, First Presbyterian Church of Spokane

8/31 Story and Craft, The MAC 9/3 Sandpoint StoryMakers, Sandpoint Library

9/3 Teen Write Club, Spark Central 9/4 Preschool Storytime Play & Learn, South Hill Library

9/4 J Broken Mic, Neato Burrito 9/4 J The Grief Cure: Cody Delistraty in Conversation with Jess Walter, Auntie’s Bookstore

COMEDY

9/5 Dane Cook, The Fox Theater

9/5 Nate Jackson, Bing Crosby Theater

9/5-7 J Jason Mewes, Spokane Comedy Club

9/5 J Funny Funny Funny Joke Joke Joke, Garland Theater

9/6 J Genre Roulette, Blue Door Theatre

9/7 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

9/7 J Rob Schneider, The Fox Theater

9/11 Improv, Pend Oreille Playhouse

COMMUNITY

9/5-11 Small Business Bingo, Page 42 Bookstore

9/5-11 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tours

9/5-11 J It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC

9/5 Minecraft Club, Spark Central

9/6-15 J Spokane County Interstate Fair, Spokane County Fair & Expo Center

9/6-7 River City Roots Festival, Missoula

9/6-8 Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

9/7-8 J Community Appreciation Weekends, Silverwood Theme Park

9/7 Chicago to Seattle: World’s Fairs at the Turn of the Century, The MAC

9/7 J Books & Brews Book Fair, Brick West Brewing Co.

9/8 J CDA Flea Market, Roosevelt Inn. 9/10 Drop In & Zine, Spark Central

FILM

9/5-8 J Expo ’74: Films from the Vault, The MAC

9/5-11 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

9/7-8 Free Summer Movies, Garland Theater

FOOD & DRINK

9/5 Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, The Boneyard - Side Hustle Syrups

9/6 J BBQ & Bands: The Buckley Storms, The Culinary Stone

9/10 Taco Tuesdays at Bull Head Saloon, The Bull Head

MUSIC

9/5 Apes of the State, Sister Wife Sex Strike, The Chameleon

9/6 J Def Leppard, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, Spokane Arena

9/6 J Hozier, Allison Russell, Gorge Amphitheater

9/6 J The Get Up Kids, Smoking Popes, Knitting Factory

9/6 Switchfoot, Blue October, Matt Nathanson, Pavilion at Riverfront

9/7 Justyn Priest, Rocket Market

9/7 J Glass Animals, Eyedress, Blondshell, Gorge Amphitheater

9/7 Randy Rogers Band, Knitting Factory

9/8 Extreme, Living Colour, Knitting Factory

9/10 J Clay Walker, Eddie Montgomery, Spokane County Fair & Expo Center

9/11 J Pentatonix, Northern Quest

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

9/5 J Mild Riders Thursday Night Rides, Lunarium

9/7 J Spokane Velocity vs. Central Valley Fuego, ONE Spokane Stadium

9/7 Game Day in the Park, Riverside State Park (Nine Mile)

9/8 J Spokane Zephyr vs. Brooklyn FC, ONE Spokane Stadium

9/8 Lilac City Roller Derby Black and White Scrimmage, Roller Valley

9/8 J Mount Spokane Trail Run, Mt. Spokane State Park

THEATER

9/8 Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience, The Fox Theater

9/9 Choreographed Ballroom Lessons, Western Dance Center

9/11 J Company, First Interstate Center for the Arts

VISUAL ARTS

9/6 J First Friday, Spokane

9/6-11 Rick Singer: Photography Retrospective, Chase Gallery

9/6-11 J Spokane Watercolor Society Show, Spokane Art School

9/6-11 J Maya Rumsey, Laura Dirksen & Austin Coudriet, Trackside Studio

9/6-11 J Ellen Picken, Entropy

9/6-7 J Be An Art: Derivatives of Som, Terrain Gallery

9/6 First Fridays with POAC, Pend Oreille Arts Council Gallery

9/7-9 Bring Your Own Piece Paint Class, Paint In My Hair

9/8 Children’s Painting Lessons, Spokane Art Supply

9/10 Watercolor Class, Create Arts Center

9/10 Tuesday Gallery Talks, The MAC

Catch the Velocity (9/7) and Zephyr (9/8) at ONE Spokane Stadium this week. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

SEPT. 12-19 SEPT. 12-19

COMEDY

9/12 Dale Jones, Spokane Comedy Club

9/12 Theo Von, Spokane Arena

9/12 Comedy Road Story Slam, The District Bar

9/13-14 Chad Daniels, Spokane Comedy Club

9/14 Safari, Blue Door Theatre

9/15 Bill Squire, Spokane Comedy Club

9/17 New Talent Tuesdays, Spokane Comedy Club

9/18 J Eden Sher, Spokane Comedy Club

COMMUNITY

9/12-19 J Small Business Bingo, Page 42 Bookstore

9/12-15 J Spokane County Interstate Fair, Spokane County Fair & Expo Center

9/12-19 Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens Self-Guided Tour

9/12-19 J It Happened Here: Expo ’74 Fifty Years Later, The MAC

9/12 Free Immigration Clinic, Latinos en Spokane

9/13-15 Scenic Chairlift Rides, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

9/14-15 Community Appreciation Weekends, Silverwood

9/14 J Historic Seventh Avenue Tours, Corbin Art Center 9/14 J Bovey Boneyard, Medical Lake 9/15 J Locals Day, Silver Mountain

FILM

9/12-19 Free Kids Movies, Garland Theater

9/19 J Third Thursday Matinee: Dersu the Hunter, The MAC

FOOD & DRINK

9/12-19 Bring Your Own Vinyl Night, The Boneyard - Side Hustle Syrups 9/13 BBQ & Bands: Brittany’s House, The Culinary Stone

9/15 J Nova Kaine’s Don’t Tell Mama Cabaret & Drag Brunch, Highball

MUSIC

9/12 J The LoweDown, The MAC

9/12 J Flo Rida, Spokane County Fair & Expo Center

9/12 Mother Mother, Winnetka Bowling League, Knitting Factory

9/13-14 J Volume Inlander Music Festival, downtown Spokane

9/14-15 J Spokane Symphony Masterworks 1: The Turning World, The Fox Theater

9/14 J King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, Gorge Amphitheater

9/15 Monthly Drum Circle, Harmony Woods Retreat Center

9/12 Michael Vallee, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

9/14 J King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, Gorge Amphitheater

9/14 Shaun Duffy, Rocket Market

9/15 Lake City Blues, Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

9/12-19 Open Play Pickleball, HUB Sports Center

9/12-19 J Mild Riders Thursday Night Rides, Lunarium

9/14 J Spokane Velocity vs. South

Georgia Tormenta FC, One Spokane Stadium

9/15 J Spokane Zephyr vs. Carolina Ascent FC, ONE Spokane Stadium

9/16 Yoga For You, CdA Public Library

9/17 Brick West Run Club, Brick West Brewing Co.

THEATER

9/12-15 J Company, First Interstate Center for the Arts

9/12-19 J Camelot, Regional Theatre of the Palouse

VISUAL ARTS

9/12-19 J Rick Singer: Photography Retrospective, Chase Gallery

9/12-14 Jamie Rome Crain & Terren Weirick, Emerge

9/12 Reuse Workshop, Mobius

9/12-19 J Ellen Picken, Entropy 9/12-19 Those Wacky Victorians, McConnell Mansion

9/12-19 J Be An Art: Derivatives of Som, Terrain Gallery

9/13 Second Friday Artwalk, Downtown Coeur d’Alene 9/14 J INK! Print Rally, Emerge

9/18 Open Studio, The Hive 9/18 Drop In & Draw, Spark Central

WORDS

9/12-19 Drop In & Write, Spark Central. 9/14 Story and Craft, The MAC 9/17 Sandpoint StoryMakers, Sandpoint Library

9/17 Teen Write Club, Spark Central 9/18 Preschool Storytime Play & Learn, South Hill Library

Allen Stone at Volume 2019; the local music fest is back Sept. 13-14! YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

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Ballet for All

World Ballet Festival brings myriad performances to Spokane showcasing the enchanting art of ballet

BY SUMMER SANDSTROM

For hundreds of years, ballet has mesmerized audiences with its exacting and graceful nature.

The first World Ballet Festival aims to further awe audiences — including during a stop this weekend in Spokane — by showcasing an array of renowned pieces that encapsulate ballet’s beauty.

“The goal of this project and the mission of the World Ballet Company, which is the largest touring ballet company in the United States, is to make ballet more accessible; to take it from this exclusive niche to a star of the mainstream art form accessible to all,” says Gulya Hartwick, a producer of the festival.

World Ballet Company is based in Los Angeles and performs in cities with less access to ballet, both to introduce the art to those watching it for the first time and to build a community of ballet lovers across the country.

The festival is only stopping in Minneapolis, Spokane, Detroit and San Diego for its first run. Along the way, the company is partnering with dancers from renowned companies like New York City Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, Los Angeles Ballet and more.

When the festival stops at the First Interstate Center for the Arts, local dancers from Company Ballet School and Ballet Arts Academy will also grace the stage.

“One of our missions in doing this is bolstering an audience in these cities for dance and bringing awareness to the local companies which are there on the ground every day creating great art,” says Adrian Blake Mitchell, the festival’s programming director. “We’re not just kind of coming in for a day and dancing — we’re kind

of building roots in the community and connecting and providing great opportunities for local dance students and future professional dancers.”

The World Ballet Festival primarily features movements from famous story ballets such as Swan Lake and Romeo and Juliet, but also some more contemporary pieces to showcase ballet’s many styles.

“There’s definitely an emphasis on the story ballets,” Mitchell says. “I think that story ballets are an incredible way of being introduced to dance because everyone can get behind a good story, right?”

There will be a few excerpts from both Cinderella and Swan Lake, such as the latter’s “The Dying Swan,” performed by Andrea Lassakova of World Ballet Company, and “Dance of the Little Swans.”

“This program, we call it ‘Ballet Blockbuster’ because it’s the blockbusters of ballet history,” Mitchell says. “That of course starts with the famous story ballets like Cinderella, like Swan Lake, but then it also extends to the new classics and some work by the most famous choreographers that really could be next in line to be considered classics.”

There are a few pieces Mitchell is particularly excited for audiences to see, such as “Light Rain,” a contemporary pas de deux choreographed by Gerald Arpino in the 1980s, and the “Diamonds” pas de deux from revered choreographer George Balanchine’s Jewels

The 2.5-hour program concludes with a grand finale featuring all of the festival’s dancers.

“The finale is going to be great,” Mitchell says. “I

think we’re going to be getting kicked out of the theater because of how exciting it is — the audience is just going to go crazy.”

Between organizing the program and coordinating with dancers’ busy schedules, Mitchell says there’s been a lot at play while preparing for the festival.

“I think people sometimes underestimate how many people go into putting ballets on stage, between technical staff, lighting, costumes, the choreography — there’s a lot of different moving parts,” he says.

One of Hartwick’s and Mitchell’s main hopes for the festival is to foster appreciation for the intense dedication and rigorous physical effortthat goes into ballet.

“The amount of training it requires to become a professional dancer, the amount of dedication and obsession it takes to do it, it’s a pursuit of excellence of the highest degree,” Mitchell says. “It’s an incredibly touching art form, and there’s such a sensitivity and emotion that goes into dancing.”

“It’s like an innate part of us — we hear music and we want to dance,” he continues. “To see these people who have dedicated their lives to that and perfected it, one could say it’s such a magical combination of those two things.”

Although this is the first iteration of the World Ballet Festival, Mitchell and Hartwick say it won’t be the last. And in coming years, the World Ballet Company plans to expand the festival’s reach by touring in even more cities to further foster admiration for ballet.

“It’s impossible to not fall in love with ballet if you haven’t already after seeing what we’re about to show you,” Hartwick says. n

World Ballet Festival • Fri, June 15 at 7 pm • $37-$87 • First Interstate Center for the Arts • 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. • firstinterstatecenter.org

A scene from World Ballet Company’s production of Cinderella. COURTESY WORLD BALLET FESTIVAL

TRENDS

Picky About Pickles

A foolproof map to find the perfect pickle of your dreams

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM, MADISON PEARSON, COLTON RASANEN AND SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL

It’s a weekday afternoon and you’re going about your day as normal — ignoring your emails, thinking about your crush, hiding from that one coworker — when it strikes. The urgent, undeniable, overpowering craving for a pickle. It overwhelms you, fogging your brain and cramping your stomach with the pangs that can only be satisfied by dill, vinegar and salt.

The decision is made for you. You must devour the perfect pickle as soon as possible. Your quest, therefore, consists of only two steps: Figure out exactly what kind of pickle will satisfy your craving, and then attain said pickle at all costs.

The first step, you find, is deceptively difficult. Never fear, fair friend. You have in your hands the map to your perfect pickle. But it is now up to you, and up to you alone, to follow the prompts, follow your heart, and pick the one pickle that will set you free.

1. DO YOU WANT A PICKLE?

a. With all my heart. Continue to 2.

b. No. You’re wrong. Repeat 1.

2. HOT OR COLD?

a. Cold. You’re cool as a cucumber. Continue to 3. b. Hot. A daredevil, are we? Skip ahead to 7.

3. DO YOU WANT TO EAT OR DRINK YOUR PICKLE?

a. Eat. That crunch is haunting you. Continue to 4. b. Drink. You’re completely off the rails, but on the right track. Skip ahead to 6.

4. SWEET OR SAVORY?

a. Sweet. Eureka! You made it! Both your sweet tooth and your pickle craving will be satisfied with Spokane Sugar Candy’s dill pickle flavored cotton candy. Seek out the colorful stand at community celebrations like Medical Lake Founders Day (June 14-15) or Spokane Gallery’s Fairy Festa (June 22-23), or cater the specialty candy maker at your next private event.

b. Savory. A wise choice. You’re nearly there. Continue to 5.

5. BIG PICKLE OR PICKLE BITS?

a. Big. Congratulations, connoisseur. There’s no other choice for you than The Big Dill at Garland Sandwich Shoppe.

“You know those delis that hand you a piece of paper and you check off all the ingredients you want on your sandwich? My list nearly always includes: Turkey. Ham. Bacon. Cheddar. Lettuce. Tomato. Mustard. Pickle. It’s almost as if the Garland Sandwich Shoppe looked at my list of faves and said, “Who needs bread? GIANT PICKLE INSTEAD!” when creating The Big Dill. What a delicious, crunchy take on a sandwich that celebrates the real star.” (SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL)

b. Bits. You’ve struck gold. Look no further than the pickle pasta salad at Zozo’s Sandwich House

6. DO YOU ALREADY HAVE A BEVERAGE?

a. Yes. You’re prepared, a good sign in a pickle warrior. Your foresight has led you to the dill pickle beer salt

Outsider’s pickle pizza is really good. LESLIE DOUGLAS PHOTO

from Inland Empire Spice, the perfect way to perk up your drink (and make sure you get your electrolytes in). You’re a hydration hero.

b. No. Never fear. Quench your thirst with a pickleback at T’s Lounge. Chase a shot of whiskey with real pickle juice from a pickle jar for an intense, and intensely delicious, celebration of your success.

7.

BREADED, ON BREAD, IN BREAD OR BETWEEN BREAD?

a. Breaded. Your treasure awaits. Nearly there. Continue to 8.

b. On bread. Your search leads you to the very depths of the dill-dom. Skip to 9.

c. In bread. Your unique quest has led you to something as unexpectedly magical as you. The pickle biscuits at Domestikated Biscuits have been waiting for you this whole time. Get yourself to the Fairwoods Farmers Market on Tuesday evenings or stop in at The Supper Club to fill the void in your heart.

d. Between bread. You have chosen to go not around, above, nor under, but through. Skip to 11.

8. WHAT IS YOUR WEAPON OF CHOICE?

a. Shield. You defend those you love, and you shall be rewarded. With round, tiny shields of deep fried pickles, that is. The good people at Post Street Ale House, Elliot’s an Urban Kitchen or Shelby’s Burgers are ready to supply you with battered and deep-fried pickle chips that are as golden as your golden heart.

b. Spear. You throw yourself after what you want, and your aim is true. May the long, spear-shaped pickle fries at Emrys Beer & Mead Works, Logan Tavern, Outlaw BBQ or Market Street Pizza be the prize you’ve been striving for.

9. SWEET OR SAVORY?

a. Sweet. Lest you thought your quest was in vain, here lies the prize: the pickle fritter at Donut Parade. But lo, the elusive fritter is only available on Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you’re in search of the fritter on a different day,

you will be forced to learn that most dreaded lesson of the universe: delayed gratification.

b. Savory. Though you venture further, you will not be disappointed. Continue to 10.

10. CHEESE OR MORE CHEESE?

a. Cheese. Huzzah! It could not hide forever. Your true love draws nigh — the pickle cheddar ranch bagel at Hidden Bagel

“Hidden Bagel’s Kendall Yards location is just a hop, skip and a jump from Inlander HQ, making it my go-to lunch spot when I’ve inevitably forgotten to pack one. The first thing I do is check to see if they have pickle cheddar ranch bagels that day. The bright pickle and ranch flavors cut through the buttery cheese and complement any sandwich or spread you choose. (May we suggest a grinder bagel sammy?) New Yorkers might have a problem with such flavors hijacking their precious bagels, but I certainly do not.”

(MADISON PEARSON)

b. More cheese. You looked neither left nor right, but kept your eyes fixed on the ultimate reward: pickle pizza. Get yourself to Outsider in Spokane or Embers by the Lake in Hauser.

“This might be controversial, but I’d rather eat a million pizzas adorned with pickles before I even think about considering a pizza with pineapple on it. This stems from a long-held, anti-pineapple opinion of mine, but after trying Outsider’s Pickle F---er pizza, I can wholeheartedly stand behind that assertion. The acidic tang of pickle slices melts into the sweet, gooey cheese atop a perfectly oven-fired crust, creating a decadent taste profile that’s indescribably immaculate.”

(COLTON RASANEN)

11. CLASSIC OR CRAZY?

a. Classic. You will not be trifled with. You’re a straightforward type with a straightforward love of all things pickle. Get yourself a Dude-FilA sandwich at Saranac Public House, which slaps a pickle brined fried chicken cutlet, plus more pickles(!), into a brioche bun.

b. Crazy. You’ve got killer style, and you’re not for the faint of heart. Join your gang at Killer Burger and grab a peanut butter pickle bacon burger and watch them all turn green with envy. n

The dill pickle pasta salad at Zozo’s Sandwich House. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

ANNUAL REPORT FOOD & DRINK NIGHTLIFE

RECREATION SHOPPING ARTS

ALSO OPENING

INSIDE OUT 2

After exploring the relationship between personified human emotions inside the brain of a young girl in the original Pixar film, Inside Out 2 returns as the girl enters her teen years. New emotions like Anxiety, Envy and Embarrassment enter the fray to further the hijinks. Rated PG

SCA ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL

Now in its third year, the Selkirk Conservation Alliance’s annual film fundraiser in Coolin, Idaho, gathers awardwinning regional nature films that let patrons experience natural wonders without the mosquito bites. Admission is free, but there are VIP fundraising tickets for those who feel like helping the SCA cause. June 15 at 3:30 pm at The Inn at Priest Lake

Birdbrained

Death comes in the form of a talking parrot in the weepy disaster Tuesday

BY JOSH BELL

Writer/director Daina O. Pusić comes up with a unique way to represent the embodiment of death in her debut feature Tuesday, but a unique idea is not necessarily the same as a good idea. Here, Death is a size-changing parrot with a voice that sounds like Inspector Gadget’s nemesis Dr. Claw, which may not be something you can see in any other movie, but it isn’t really something you want to see in this movie, either. There are lots of other bad ideas in Tuesday, which is a mess of conflicting tones and genres. The best thing that can be said about it is that Pusić delivers all of her terrible ideas with conviction. She begins, ambitiously, by traversing the entire globe, pulling the camera back to reveal the Earth contained entirely in the eye of Death the parrot, who is in turn perched in the corner of a dying man’s eye. Death (voiced by Arinzé Kene) can shrink himself down to a tiny enough size to fit in that crevice, but he grows to larger than human size when he sends the man off to his eternal rest.

Death is constantly bombarded by the thoughts of the dying, rushing from one person’s final moments to another, but he’s somehow tripped up when he arrives to grimly reap Tuesday (Lola Petticrew), a plucky teenager dying

of an unspecified Movie Disease. Tuesday tells Death a corny joke, and that inspires him to speak for the first time in ages. Tuesday just wants a chance to say goodbye to her mother Zora (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) before she goes, so Death agrees to hang out for a while, smoke some marijuana and rap along to Ice Cube’s “It Was a Good Day.”

TUESDAY

Tuesday lurches from abstract metaphysical musings to goofy buddy comedy, and that’s before Zora even gets home, after which it becomes a horror movie for a little bit, then expands into apocalyptic science fiction, all while delivering a heavy-handed, tear-jerking message about coping with grief and letting go of loved ones who are suffering. It’s somehow both maudlin and creepy, as Death’s holiday with Tuesday and Zora carries horrific consequences for the rest of the world, even if mother and daughter remain willfully oblivious. “Is this the apocalypse?” asks Tuesday’s traumatized home health care nurse (Leah Harvey), but even Pusić doesn’t seem to know for sure.

Rated R

Directed by Daina O. Pusić Starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Lola Petticrew, Arinzé Kene

It’s not easy to roll with all of those narrative shifts

while maintaining a consistent, grounded character, and Louis-Dreyfus can’t quite pull it off, especially when Zora undergoes her own mystical transformation of sorts. Although she’s still primarily known for comedy, LouisDreyfus has demonstrated a skill for tackling dramatic material in her collaborations with filmmaker Nicole Holofcener (Enough Said, You Hurt My Feelings), but here she just seems lost.

Both Louis-Dreyfus’ performance and the movie around her recall the recent Adam Sandler-starring oddity Spaceman, which had a giant spider instead of a giant parrot, but was an equally muddled meditation on grief and regret. Like Sandler in that movie, Louis-Dreyfus conveys sadness by dialing down her typically lively presence, and the result is dour and glum rather than affecting.

Petticrew plays a typical precocious teenager, the child who’s had to take on the burdens of maturity, but she almost never captures the pain and anguish of a terminal illness, remaining sunny and beatific until the very end. She’s no more believable as someone on the verge of death than the protagonists of YA illness romances like Midnight Sun and Five Feet Apart. Pusić works hard to pull on the audience’s heartstrings as Tuesday implores her mother to move on, but the emotions feel manufactured and phony.

The parrot himself is an impressive special effect, at least, which helps immerse the audience in the world that Pusić is creating. The larger world-building is haphazard, though, and the movie falters when Pusić attempts to depict the concrete effects of Death’s distractions. The story can only succeed as a metaphor, and any reminder of the lack of internal logic takes the viewer out of the experience.

If Tuesday ever evokes any genuine emotion, it’s only in spite of the fractured storytelling. Pusić’s grand vision is a complete misfire, but there’s some honesty in the small, intimate moments. No terrifying mystical creature required. n

Julia Louis-Dreyfus struggles with Tuesday’s messy drama.

Don’t Lose Your Head

Alicia Vikander and Jude Law

BY CHASE HUTCHINSON

Can a film be both stodgy and subversive? Transgressive and tepid? Radical and rote? Firebrand lives in this near-constant state of contradiction, jostling its way through history with little to show for it. Even with a bold ending, it’s all oddly banal. Its primary hook is how it offers a new take on the story of King Henry VIII — played by Jude Law in truly disgusting form that would put even his recent turn as Captain Hook to shame — by turning the stage over to his sole surviving wife, Catherine Parr. Played by Alicia Vikander in one of her better performances since Ex Machina, she does all she can to give life to a deathly dull film where death looms.

anything else that follows. This is primarily due to how the king soon returns from war, bringing his repugnant and stifling disposition into all facets of the film. While much of this is by design, Law groaning his way through scene after scene soon grows tiresome.

FIREBRAND

Directed by Karim Aïnouz

Starring Alicia Vikander, Jude Law, Erin Doherty

The film is defined by palace intrigue where we observe how Catherine is attempting to both help better society and create her own autonomy in a repressive world seeking to stifle it. There is something inside her that draws her to write and interact with Anne Askew (Erin Doherty), who wants the people to be able to worship God as opposed to the king. These early hushed conversations Catherine has with Anne prove more electrifying and engaging than

This isn’t the fault of either Vikander or Law as each brings a real commitment to what are challenging characters to capture. The performances are Fireband’s primary redeeming quality. Vikander must bring the right amount of poise to her character just as she must also tread carefully since stepping out of line and getting caught is to risk death. Indeed, this ends up being the driving conflict of the film as the connection that she had with Askew comes under scrutiny. That is where Law lumbers in, carrying his festering wound and paranoia in a way that is as pitiful as it can be petrifying. He is capable of wielding immense cruelty at the drop of a hat.

Much of this sounds interesting on paper, but for all the thought put into things like the costumes, production design and performances, the film just feels like it is getting caught up in itself. The direction of the film is itself rather unimpressive, with

most conversations feeling rather stuffily shot. Though Karim Aïnouz clearly wants to delve a bit deeper into a woman who has been overlooked by history and the stories we tell about them, it still feels like we are waiting for that. Writers Henrietta and Jessica Ashworth, adapting the novel Queen’s Gambit by Elizabeth Fremantle, succeed at giving Catherine her moment in the spotlight. It just is hard to shake how the film itself is rather ordinary and even often stiff despite the unique framing it is taking.

As someone who’s already seen Aïnouz’s upcoming Motel Destino, Firebrand feels like a film that was made by an entirely different, more drab filmmaker. For all the historical liberties that he is taking here, there is little new ground that feels like it is being broken. Though the point could be about the smuggling in of new ideas to a genre that can be very set in its ways in terms of narrative structure, Aïnouz feels like he too is constantly boxed in. Even with the ending where it flaunts the historical record in a manner that has more of a sharp bite, the road to get there was mostly standard fare. “There is more than one way to scorch the Earth,” we are told via narration late in the film. While this is an intriguing sentiment and thesis statement around which to build a film, Firebrand never burns brighter than a flicker. n

CHOMPI-ng at the Bit

A new locally created sampler instrument, CHOMPI aims to make music production fun and accessible

BY SUMMER SANDSTROM

Making music production accessible and fun to all has been a longtime goal for Spokane husband-and-wife duo Tobias and Chelsea Hendrickson, even if they had to make the tools themselves. This prompted them to develop their own music sampler, CHOMPI.

The pair began developing CHOMPI, a compact and customizable music sampler, to provide people with a straightforward and accessible device that could introduce sound design basics to those with no prior experience.

The sampler — which bears Tobias’ childhood nickname — has a built-in microphone, an array of fun lights and designs, and interchangeable keycaps and knobs that can be swapped out to allow for each user to customize their CHOMPI to their own needs. It also doesn’t have a screen, making it more accessible for visually impaired users.

“You don’t have to have vision to play the drums, you don’t have to have vision to play guitar once you have muscle memory,” says Tobias. “I wanted to make it an

instrument and not a computer.”

Both Tobias and Chelsea have been playing instruments since childhood, with Tobias growing up in an affluent, musical family with a recording studio and an array of instruments in their Spokane home.

“I was barely walking and playing synthesizers and stuff,” he says. “I’m visually impaired, so part of how I interacted with my life was always centered around sound and music.”

Music was always in Tobias’ life, but he wanted CHOMPI to be accessible because he realized he didn’t face certain barriers others had to deal with when learning to play instruments, such as financial constraints or not having enough time to take lessons.

“A lot of music education is based around having to learn all this theory before you can start having fun, and not everybody connects with that,” says Tobias. “I never learned theory, I just did it because that was what was in front of me. I just like recording fun sounds and doing something with those sounds that made me feel connected to an emotion of some kind.”

The couple’s journey to create CHOMPI began decades ago. Chelsea and Tobias met as kids in Spokane, moved around together for collegiate studies in New Zealand and California, eventually got married, and finally moved back to Spokane. CHOMPI sprung forth from a variety of their past projects, one being Techno Logic, a synthesizer education program that the Hendricksons started after returning to the Lilac City.

The idea for creating a device like CHOMPI emerged for the Hendricksons in 2016. The pair would let Techno Logic participants play around with other samplers in order to gain feedback to find out what worked for them and what they enjoyed about the process.

“The process of capturing something you think sounds interesting and then being able to use that as a toy to make something, it was like this lightbulb moment for people across the spectrum,” Tobias says. “It didn’t matter if you have experience, it didn’t matter if you were brand new, it was always fun.”

“It’s just always something that is engaging and it

CHOMPI looks to bring accessible production and sampling to music creators. TOBIAS HENDRICKSON PHOTOS

works with any kind of group,” he continues. “And it was just clear from an education standpoint, [CHOMPI] was a solution to a problem I have been trying to figure out for a long time.”

Just a few years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Tobias began teaching music at Innovation High School. He would bring different music sampler instruments to the classroom, allowing students to play around with them and provide feedback on each instrument.

“At the end of the week, we could talk about it, and somebody would click with it, somebody would be like this is not for me, and I would take note of what worked and what didn’t,” he says. “When I talk to other people, especially other instrument designers, that’s something that is so incredibly unique that I didn’t realize I had because it was just naturally occurring.”

Upon attending the National Association of Music Merchants show in Los Angeles in 2020, Tobias met the developers of Electrosmith’s Daisy Seed, a small piece of hardware specifically designed for music production that became one of the main components that CHOMPI runs on.

A few months later, the pandemic sent everyone into lockdown. During that time Tobias underwent several surgeries for his vision that rendered him fully blind for about four months. It was also then that he and Chelsea started developing CHOMPI and creating code for the sampler to turn it into something that could become a tangible creation.

In the summer of 2022, the Hendricksons reached out to Electrosmith to get information on buying the Daisy Seeds for CHOMPI, and Electrosmith responded with interest in helping the couple create the product.

The pair created a Kickstarter campaign and organized a five- to 10year business plan for CHOMPI, yet even before its launch they began receiving more attention than expected. Within the first minute of the Kickstarter’s launch, the Hendricksons reached their goal of selling 50 to 60 devices. By the end of the week, they’d sold over 2,000 CHOMPIs.

Since then, the Hendricksons have begun selling CHOMPI on their website (chompiclub.com) and through retailers. They launched a Discord channel for CHOMPI users to share their music, ask questions about the sampler, and leave feedback for future models and updates.

The Hendricksons more recently launched a collaborative CHOMPI sampler with Chase Bliss, a company out of Minneapolis that produces pedals and digital circuits. A portion of proceeds are going to the Willie Mae Rock Camp, a free music laboratory for girls and gender-expansive youth in New York City.

Overall, the Hendricksons hope to support music education in schools with CHOMPI, and that it cultivates an inclusive community of musicians across the world.

“We want it to be inclusive, we want people to not be afraid to try, we want it to be fun,” says Chelsea. “We’re getting to be part of something that is so much bigger than what we ever realized it could be.” n

Turning the VOLUME BACK UP

After a COVID-induced hiatus, the Spokane-based music festival Volume is set to return this fall

BY AZARIA PODPLESKY

Iwon’t bury the lede: Volume, the Inlander-founded music festival that champions local, regional and national bands, is coming back. For the first time since 2019, Volume will take over venues around town Sept. 13 and 14 for two nights packed with live music.

That said, while remaining a media partner, The Inlander won’t be running the fest anymore. Local talent buyer Ryker is heading up the revitalization efforts alongside their HaveUHeard!? business partner Brayton Dawson and Great PNW owner and creative director Joel Barbour.

The first incarnation of Volume was a 2010 concert at the Knitting Factory featuring The Inlander’s “Bands to Watch”: Matthew Winters, Space Opera 77, Jaeda, Ze Krau and FAUS. The festival took 2011 off but returned in 2012 with 39 bands in six venues. Volume reached 100 bands across 10 stages in 2016. In 2019, Volume featured Chewelah-raised soul singer Allen Stone, Super Sparkle (R.I.P.), Indian Goat and Heat Speak, among many others. But like so many other things, COVID put the kibosh on a 2020 Volume.

Now, with the local music scene back on its feet, Volume is ready to once again spotlight talented artists in the Inland Northwest.

Ryker and Barbour independently reached out to The Inlander about potentially reviving Volume. While the timing wasn’t right when Ryker first showed interest, things aligned when Barbour came calling and the pair teamed up.

“From the Great PNW brand, from a regional standpoint, community is No. 1,” says Barbour, “so anything that we can be involved in that brings people together for a good, positive event, we’re all about it.”

For Ryker, organizing this year’s Volume is a fullcircle moment, as helping music promoter and talent buyer Patrick Kendrick book the 2017 festival was their

first experience talent buying. Ryker now books the annual Great PNW/Rainier Beer collaboration parties as well as other regional festivals, including Lucky Fest Northwest in 2022.

Volume 2024 artists and venues will be announced later this summer, and Ryker is hopeful the diversity in sound and identity on stage will encourage diverse audiences to attend the festival. Along with talent booking, Ryker is also overseeing the production side of things, arranging hospitality and transportation for the artists and guiding younger talent buyers helping with this festival, just as Kendrick guided them in 2017.

Like Ryker, Barbour too has a long history with Volume, having started his graphic design career at The Inlander and worked on Volume 2019. The Great PNW will handle Volume’s new visual branding.

“We’re very much staking our flag in Spokane,” Barbour says.

Ryker is especially hopeful that the next generation of talent buyers and music bloggers get inspired by the revamped Volume and go on to create festivals and publications of their own that give Spokane’s creative scene a voice “beyond its own neighborhood.”

“These celebrations are an opportunity for creatives from different walks of life, from different communities, sometimes from different sides of the state or sometimes from different states altogether to come together and all celebrate a common goal that we all have which is sharing, dancing and enjoying live music,” Ryker says. n

Tickets for Volume are on sale now via VolumeSpokane.com. For more info, visit the website or email support@volumespokane.com.

Chelsea and Tobias Hendrickson show off their CHOMPI babies.

VannaOh rocking Volume back in 2019. ALICIA HAUFF PHOTO

LOCAL FOLK THE BED HEADS

The inherent quick-spitting frenzy of a lot of hip-hop inherently prevents it from being the realm of deep-voiced dudes. It’s just sonically difficult to rap in a low register and still display quick and clear enunciation. But that’s not a problem for Chali 2na. With a booming bass vocal delivery that’s both smooth and swift, he almost feels like a rap game Barry White or Isaac Hayes. Chali 2na came to prominence in the early 2000s with the acclaimed LA underground hip-hop group Jurassic 5, and his solo work doesn’t drop off from that high standard. Get a dose of that old West Coast sound when Chali 2na drops into the District.

— SETH SOMMERFELD

Chali 2na with DJ Shub, Bon Panda Breaks • Fri, June 14 at 9 pm • $25 • 21+ • The District Bar • 916 W. First Ave. • sp.knittingfactory.com

Thursday, 6/13

ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS, Craig Catlett Quartet

BACKWOODS WHISKEY BAR, Brenden McCoy

J THE BIG DIPPER, Hell Motel, Daybed, Prim, Bad Trip Motel

J BRICK WEST BREWING CO., Buffalo Jones

CHECKERBOARD TAPROOM, Weathered Shepherds THE DISTRICT BAR, GRLwood, Gotu Gotu

PARAGON BREWING, Pamela Benton

J QQ SUSHI & KITCHEN, Just Plain Darin

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Hip-Hop Night

SEDLMAYER’S RESORT, Son of Brad

J STELLA’S ON THE HILL, Whack A Mole

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Carli Osika

Friday, 6/14

2231 CONCERTS, Mark Stuart

AK ASIAN RESTAURANT, Anthony Ray

J THE BIG DIPPER, Warp Detour, Not For Nothing THE CHAMELEON, Vampa, I.T. Brian, Druuid, Pew Pew Special

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Eternal Jones

CHINOOK STEAK, SEAFOOD & PASTA, Mike McCafferty

J THE CULINARY STONE, Just Plain Darin

J THE DISTRICT BAR, Chali 2na with DJ Shub

HELIX WINES, Robert Vaughn

IOLITE LOUNGE, Jason Lucas

NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE (CDA CASINO), Royale

J PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Wiebe Jammin’

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs

J REPUBLIC BREWING CO., The Welter Brothers

J SPOKANE TRIBE CASINO, Not.Greenday, The Nixon Rodeo

J THE JUNKYARD DRINKS & EATS, Boots & Daisy Dukes

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Dan Conrad

WHISPERS LOUNGE, Live on the Lake: Jojo Dodge

Saturday, 6/15

J THE BIG DIPPER, Sav, Jojo, Just Joshin, Jade//Cutter

J THE BIG DIPPER, The Bed Heads, Small Paul, Timeworm

J BING CROSBY THEATER, A Night of Joel

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Steve Livingston & Tripleshot

CHINOOK STEAK, SEAFOOD & PASTA, Mike McCafferty

THE DISTRICT BAR, Fuego: Latin Summer Party

J HUCKLEBERRY’S MARKET, Into the Drift Duo

NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE (CDA CASINO), Royale

J ONE SHOT CHARLIE’S, Bay 7

PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Kosh

J PONDEROSA BAR AND GRILL, Howie King

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs

ROCKET MARKET, The Ronaldos SCHWEITZER, Steven Wayne

J SIRINYA’S THAI RESTAURANT, Gil Rivas

J SPOKANE TRIBE CASINO, Vince Neil

The name is not deceiving: The Bed Heads have some serious bedhead going on, but it only adds to the free-flowing nature of the soothing sonic soup the band has been serving up as of late. The Spokane group’s first EP, Songs for Supper, came out earlier this year and packs a ton of folky flavor into its 20-minute runtime with songs like the sensitive “Hey Medusa” and “The World Keeps Spinning Around,” a stomp-and-holler standout with an ultra-catchy repeating chorus. The Bed Heads’ June 15 concert at the Chameleon serves as its first headlining show, when the group shares the stage with Seattle band Small Paul and fellow locals Timeworm.

— MADISON PEARSON

The Bed Heads, Small Paul,

J THE JUNKYARD DRINKS & EATS, Boots & Daisy Dukes

Sunday, 6/16

ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS, Kaitlyn Wiens Band

J THE BIG DIPPER, Shady Angels, Monkee Business, Geneva

J BING CROSBY THEATER, A Free Jazzy Father’s Day Concert: Adriano Ferraro

THE COEUR D’ALENE RESORT, Sunset Sessions: DJ Daymaker

J CRAFT & GATHER, Ron Greene

HOGFISH, Open Mic

J ONE SHOT CHARLIE’S, The Philosopher’s Daughter

J SOUTH HILL GRILL, Just Plain Darin

Monday, 6/17

J THE BIG DIPPER, Artillery, Vapor, War Curse, RivetSkull, Toxic Vengeance

J BING CROSBY THEATER, Mat Kearney

THE DISTRICT BAR, Mountain Grass Unit

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

J KROC CENTER, Jojo

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Open Mic Night

J STELLA’S ON THE HILL, Dallas Kay

Tuesday, 6/18

J OSPREY RESTAURANT & BAR, Just Plain Darin

ROCKET MARKET, Tim Guidotti

SWING LOUNGE,

Wednesday, 6/19

BACKWOODS WHISKEY BAR, Brenden McCoy

BARRISTER WINERY, Kevin Shay Band

J THE BIG DIPPER, Zephyria, Cold Hearts, Nine Denials

THE DRAFT ZONE, The Draft Zone Open Mic

GREEN CITY SALOON, Wiebe Jammin’

J THE NEST AT KENDALL YARDS, Heat Speak, Wyatt Woods, Patrick Piper, Andru Gomez

OSPREY RESTAURANT & BAR, Land of Voices

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Red Room Lounge Jam

J TIMBERS ROADHOUSE, Cary Beare Presents

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Dallas Kay

J ZEEKS PIZZA, Jason Lucas

Just Annouced...

J THE BIG DIPPER, Dead Register, June 28.

THE CHAMELEON, RCA and The Radicals, July 6.

J THE BIG DIPPER, I Declare War, Aug. 1.

THE CHAMELEON, Sunfish, Aug. 1.

THE DISTRICT BAR, William Clark Green, Aug. 16.

THE CHAMELEON, Skeemn: Tapes Vol. 1: Dark Daze Album Release Show, Aug. 23.

J J KNITTING FACTORY, Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls, Sept. 1.

J SPOKANE TRIBE CASINO, Dogstar, Sept. 10.

J J THE GORGE, Sturgill Simpson, Sept. 20.

J THE BIG DIPPER, Oceano, Sept. 29.

J THE FOX THEATER, Home Free, Oct. 17.

J J KNITTING FACOTRY, Thanksgiving Throwdown 10: Free the Jester, Nov. 27.

Coming Up...

J COEUR D’ALENE PARK, Mardi Gras Growlers, June 20, 6-8 pm.

J SPOKANE TRIBE CASINO, Larry Fleet, June 20, 8 pm.

THE CULINARY STONE, BBQ & Bands: Jackson Roltgen, June 21, 5-7 pm.

PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Nobody Famous, June 21, 5-8 pm.

J J NYNE BAR & BISTRO, Hayes Noble, Itchy Kitty, Loomer, June 21, 6:30 pm.

THE CHAMELEON, Uh Oh and the Oh Wells, Mama Llama, Brittany’s House, June 21, 8 pm.

THE DISTRICT BAR, James McMurty, June 21, 9 pm.

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

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.

grand to waters clear, A future’s vision, ever near. With pen and page, it captures all, e essence of e Fair and e Falls.

OUTDOORS SUN’S OUT, BIKES OUT

Kick off your summer by attending Summer Parkways, an annual local event inspired by a similar one in Bogota, Colombia, called Ciclovía (meaning “bike path” in Spanish). Summer Parkways is an opportunity for residents of the Spokane area to enjoy the beginning of summer and engage in various family-friendly outdoor activities like yoga, Zumba, hula hooping, gymnastics, dancing, chalk art and more. The streets around Manito and Comstock parks are closed to traffic, but welcome runners, bikers and any form of people-powered transport. Booths with local vendors will also be set up, allowing participants to connect with even more community members.

— FOPE SERIKI

Summer Parkways • Tue, June 18 from 6-9 pm • Free • Manito and Comstock Neighborhoods, Spokane • summerparkways.com

OUTDOORS GARDEN PARTY

Blossoming flowers await guests attending this year’s Spokane in Bloom Garden Tour. Founded by the nonprofit Inland Empire Gardeners, 2024 marks the event’s 24th edition. This year’s theme is sustainable gardening, bringing something new to something old. Spokane in Bloom’s attractions include a large number of vendors, several artists and live music. The volunteer-run event is a one-day self-guided tour, showcasing 10 gardens around Spokane. All ticket proceeds go toward gardening programs and local charity organizations. Tour-goers can find maps and directions to all the gardens printed on their tickets. Find more details at the link below.

— MADI OSWALT

Spokane in Bloom Garden Tour • Sat, June 15 from 9 am-5 pm • $15; free for kids 12 and under • Locations vary • tieg.org/ spokane-in-bloom

THEATER ONE-ACT WONDERS

Since 1983, the Spokane Civic Theatre has been giving local and regional playwrights the chance to show the people what they’ve got. The 34th annual Bryan Harnetiaux Playwrights’ Forum Festival features 10 one-act plays premiering on the Civic Theatre stage. Watch The Invention of Pickle Ball by Rachel Carnes from Eugene, Oregon, for your fill of sports theater or Lily by Bryan Harnetiaux (pictured), the Civic’s playwright-in-residence for over 40 years. The plays are shown in rotation over the course of three days so audiences have a chance to see all of the playwrights’ unique creations no matter their schedule.

— MADISON PEARSON

34th Annual Bryan Harnetiaux Playwrights’ Forum Festival • June 13-16; times vary • $10-$15 • Spokane Civic Theatre • 1020 N. Howard St. • spokanecivictheatre.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.

COMMUNITY A MIDDLE EARTH VISITOR

When there’s something strange / in the Middle Earth woods / who’s a director gonna call? / Jed Brophy! Character actors often need to find a niche they can call their own, and the Kiwi thespian Brophy has essentially become a Lord of the Rings specialist. After making his admittedly unrecognizable mark playing two standout orcs in The Two Towers (the Warg-riding chief Sharku and the Sam-and-Frodo-battling Snaga), he received a juicer role as Bilbo’s dwarf pal Nori in The Hobbit trilogy. He’s even popped up as another orc (Vrath) in The Rings of Power series on Amazon Prime. And while Lilac City Comic Con may have passed, nerdy meet-and-greets have not. Brophy journeys from Middle Earth to The Comic Book Shop’s Northtown location to sign memorabilia and take pictures with fans. So bring your preciouses and commune with fellow LotR fanatics. — SETH SOMMERFELD

Meet & Signing with Jed Brophy • Sat, June 15 at 11 am • $30 • The Comic Book Shop Northtown • 4750 N. Division St. • thecomicbookshop.net

OUTDOORS BIKES, TUNES, BREWS, OH MY!

Spokatopia is back for another year — and this time, it’s going to be twice as much fun as ever. With two days of celebration instead of one, there’s more time to check out exciting bike demos, jam out to live music and down a couple brewskis. North Idaho band Agápē and Deer Park-based solo performer Suhanna Cree are the two artists set to perform this weekend. One of the main events this year is the Spokatopia Poker Ride, for which cyclists of all skill levels can ride from Camp Sekani to the Beacon Hill towers and back. There will be a handful of stops along the route where participants can collect poker cards in an effort to craft the best hand to win some prizes. Due to high water levels in the Spokane River now, however, there won’t be any water sports demonstrations or activities. But don’t worry, there will still be tons of excitement!

— COLTON RASANEN

Spokatopia • Fri, June 14 from 5-9 pm and Sat, June 15 from 9 am-3 pm • $5-$85 • Camp Sekani • 62070 E. Upriver Dr. • spokatopia.com

I SAW YOU

IN MY DREAMS.... Mr. B, I can feel you right next to me some nights. Your energy is intoxicating. I feel your breath in sync with mine. I have awakened. I love you and I am sorry for the s@#$ that happened back there. Let’s shut the door on the past and open the door to our future...For now, I will see you in my dreams. And the answer is “Yes” to your question.

BLACK MUSTANG AND TSWIFT 06/05

Driving down Appleway in Spokane Valley, we drove side by side sharing glances and smiles. You were in a black Mustang and blasting T. Swift “Cruel Summer!” Haha! Went our separate ways when I turned and even exchanged a heart with our hands. You were tatted to the nines! Hope I find you :)

ROCKET (MARKET) MAN You: great smile, beautiful black lab mix. Me: golden retriever owner. We exchanged a couple of words at the Rocket Market concert a couple of Saturdays ago, and just a nod of acknowledgement this last Saturday as you stopped by to pick up some groceries. Want to enjoy the concert together on purpose sometime?

YOU SAW ME

PRIDEFUL APOLOGIES You saw me, or rather my beat up old car, nearly mow you down in the crosswalk between the Opera House and Riverfront Park shortly after the Pride Parade and said something I absolutely deserved without even raising your voice. Entirely MY BAD! I was way too distracted and deserved

far worse, thank you for paying attention and returning mine to the road. Pride people, I see and appreciate you!

CHEERS

CHEERSCEPTION Cheers to all the others cheerers in this section, from issues past, present, and future! Thanks for spreading cheer for all to hear; you are a dear because your cheers are here! Spreading your joy is best, huzzah for this section and its authors, to you I say “Cheers!”

VETERANS HELPING SPOKANIMAL I just want to thank all the veterans at the Fairchild exchange for helping out Spokanimal and a food drive. They’re really in need of food. Now they had gotten to a point they were going to do a food bank to feed the animals that are there? So I wanna thank the airmen and the staff at the exchange at Fairchild Air Force Base. Thank you so much for helping Spokanimal and that the word be known. Have a blessed day.

KEEPING IT GOLDEN Cheers to Golden Rule Brake off Francis Avenue for the marquee quotes that have me laughing out loud every day. Your witty sign is the perfect day break for my drive home and I appreciate the good humor, keep up the great work!

LESS IS MORE Cheers to the Parks Department for blocking auto traffic flow in Manito Park on the road between the park bench and the perennial garden. I witnessed (before they implemented it) many people noisily speeding through there and parking all along the south side of the road greatly reducing the egress of an already narrow road. This is not to mention the poor folks biking or walking there who are nearly run over. And “almost” best of all, the noise reduction, OMG. It’s actually an almost peaceful place now like a park is supposed to be. Whoever is responsible for this real change for the better deserves a medal. Many Thanks!

BINGO BUILDS COMMUNITY Meeting

House Perry District team: You are doing an amazing job of welcoming neighbors, creating a space for people to be recognized and known, no matter the time of day. The new bingo series on Fridays are so simple and so fun. It makes me happy to know I will see familiar faces when I come by for some great music and a place to work, or for drinks and snacks at the end of the week. Thanks for trying new things and for remaining easily my favorite coffee shop in town. <3

JEERS

UP ...in the air. How does it feel to be a “flying monkey”? Literally...or figuratively. When you realize you’re complicit, perhaps you’ll back out of that journey. Perhaps when it happens to you, a loved one, or the worst, your child, you’ll know the pain you in

which you participate. I hope you learn, and are innocent. Karma’s a b*&^#, especially when you are. Come back down to Earth where the turbulence is real. Learn. You’re not more popular because of your position in the game. When it happens to you....

WHAT’S WRONG WITH PEOPLE? I live near Logan Peace Park where, unfortunately, a great many homeless people congregate. My iris are especially beautiful this year and were in full bloom in my front yard. Last night (June 5) a couple of these morons tore them all out and stomped on them. These are the people we’re supposed to feel sorry for and bankroll with our tax dollars. I think enough is enough.

RE: RE: DEADBEAT CITY Oh my, it seems my comments pointing out the entitlement and classist mentalities in our fair city, and the jeers section of the Inlander, have offended some of you. For this I offer my apologies. What I meant to do was offend all of you. :)

DEAR BAG LADY RCA 70A.530 does, in fact, legally require retailers to charge at least $0.08 for plastic and large paper bags. Sorry if that’s inconvenient for you, but the law is the law. Sounds like a retailer wasn’t interested in being the sounding board for your venting — and who can blame them? They didn’t decide the law. They didn’t choose to be the ones required to enforce it. They have no more power than you to change it. I’m reminded of the MAGA Karens who we all saw on social media screaming at waitstaff and cashiers about having to wear a mask during the pandemic. Why is it that the general public thinks it’s OK to treat these people so poorly? Is it because they’re paid less than you? Or maybe just because they’re

a captive audience and no one else will listen to your horsesh*t. If you don’t like the law, lobby your state representatives — the people with the power to change the rules — or start an initiative petition. Leave retailers alone!

RE: “PRIDE” CROSSWALK The downtown pavement painting was supposed to denote

“inclusiveness,” but as a straight white male I feel particularly EXCLUDED. How would a gay person react to a business with a “Heterosexual Pride” sign in the window? And if the city can “celebrate” a small segment of the population’s lifestyle, why not have a Christian crosswalk? A Patriot crosswalk? Or even a Confederate flag crosswalk? Although I don’t suppose the latter would be “tolerated” by the “tolerant and inclusive” Left, and any vandalism would be lauded.

TO THE LENDERS AND CREDIT CARD COMPANIES... ...who wouldn’t even give me the time of day to get consolidation to pay down my debt or give me a balance transfer, despite a 658 score and everything always paid on time. Guess what? $8,000 in debt paid off in a year WITHOUT YOUR HELP. I am now DEBT FREE!!! Because you said no, you missed out on me referring friends & family to you; you missed out on me paying YOU the interest. Now you will never see a cent from me. Your loss, my gain. Guess what? I’m flying FIRST CLASS, too and USING MY OWN $!!! And now CHEERS to all my friends and family who understood why I couldn’t do extra at Christmas or take extra vacations. You stood by me as I reached my goal of being debt free. So for all your understanding, please meet me where the cliff meets the sea.

RE: LICENSE PLATE JEERS To the person who wrote the idiotic excuse for not having current license tabs citing the need to pay for rent and food instead and referring to the original writer as “entitled,” wow do you ever need a lesson in citizenship. To drive a car, you have to pay for a car license for that vehicle. Duh! Spokane is quite generous.

If you need food, go to a shelter and get some. If you need help paying rent, go get it. There are also numerous organizations around town that give food away (paid for by “entitled” people) and state and federal subsidies. There are so many ways of getting “free” resources in this state that the idea of a person not being able to pay for really cheap tabs for several years in a

row is ridiculous. Spokane is way too lenient about that. The orginal deadbeat city writer is correct. You are definitely not!! Dumb.

CONSTANTLY CONSTRUCTING Hey “neighbors” who constantly do loud construction tasks on nights and weekends in the alley between 7th and 8th Ave. You are the absolute worst and are ruining our lives. We can’t even be inside our home with earplugs and noise blocking headphones because of your constant loud construction that echos through the alley. Please stop so we can enjoy our summer, for once. Or move. You fully suck and we all hate you.

6/10 AT 11:30 AM You dumped your son off his bike and left him in the middle of both I Street and Heroy Ave. My first impression of you leads me to believe you, sir, should NOT be reproducing. Does his mother know you do things like that? I hope she leaves you! Not my business, you say? Then don’t make it my business by putting my daughter and I in the position of potentially having to see your little boy get killed. n

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

EVENTS | CALENDAR BENEFIT

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: makingspokanebetter.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)

ISAAC FOUNDATION PARKING LOT

SALE Shop gently used and new items with proceeds benefitting the Isaac Foundation. June 15, 8 am-3 pm. The ISAAC Foundation, 606 W. Sharp Ave. theisaacfoundation.org (509-325-1515)

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

CLASSIC COUNTRY TUNES FOR CHARITY A benefit concert supporting the Chewelah Center for the Arts featuring live music and raffles. June 22, 5:15-8 pm. $10. Chewelah Center for the Arts, 405 N. Third St. chewelahcenterforthearts.com

COMEDY

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

ART MEETS COMEDY A comedy show pulling material from the art work on display. June 14, 5-9 pm. $5. Shotgun Studios, 1625 W. Water Ave. shotgunstudiosspokane.com (509-688-3757)

A FULLY-IMPROVISED MUSICAL Improvised story, characters, songs and choreography all inspired by audience suggestions. June 14, 7 pm. $15. Harding Family Center, 411 N. 15th St. levitytheatre.com

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

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)

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

JOHN CRIST Crist is known for his southern wit, charm and relatability and his large social media presence. June 16, 7 pm. $30-$150. The Fox Theater, 1001 W. Sprague Ave. foxtheaterspokane.org

COMMUNITY

JUNETEENTH KICKOFF Celebration includes speakers, food entertainment, networking and more. June 13, 5:30-7 pm. Free. MLK Jr. Community Center, 500 S. Stone. facebook.com/MLKSpokane

TRIBAL FASHION SHOW & MUSIC FESTIVAL This show and festival features

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

CAR D’LANE A classic car show and cruise. The event also includes a poker walk, people’s choice voting and familyfriendly activities. June 14-15; Fri from 6-9 pm, Sat from 8 am-4 pm. Free. Downtown Coeur d’Alene, Sherman Ave. cdadowntown.com (208-415-0116)

CHAOTIC GOOD BLOOD DRIVE Donate blood with Vitalant in partnership with Chaos Arcade. Donors receive free game play, treats, a $10 gas card and more. June 14, 2-7 pm. Free. Chaos Arcade, 1020 W. Francis Ave. Suite H. chaosarcade.com/blooddrive (509-866-7417)

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

PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY Celebrate Philippine Independence Day with live music, cultural performances, street food stalls 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, monthly art market featuring local artists, demonstrations 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 15-16. $17-$35. Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. brickfestlive.com

CDA4PRIDE TIE-DYE PARTY Make tiedye shirts with fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies. 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 changes in the world that heralded a new era of auto making in the U.S. during the 1970s. June 15-Sept. 14; Tue-Sun from 10 am-5 pm. $8-$12. The MAC, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION A celebration with live music, food, giveaways and more. June 15, 11 am. Free. Grant Park, 1015 S. Arthur St. my.spokanecity.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)

METALINE FALLS BIGFOOT FESTIVAL

A weekend of events featuring a 5k run, Bigfoot researchers from around the country, vendors, panels and more. June 15, 8 am-6 pm and June 16, 7 am-3 pm. $25-$60. Metaline Falls. mfbigfoot.com

FATHER’S DAY CAR SHOW A car show with 15 award categories. Proceeds benefit Providence Saints, 2nd Harvest and Providence Children’s Hospital. June 16, 10 am-2 pm. Free. Wendle Ford, 9000 N. Division St. wendle.com

SPOKANE’S GOT TALENT: EXPO ’74 EDITION Community members perform talents with a 70s-inspired theme. A panel of judges provides feedback and crowns the winners. June 20, 6 pm. Free. Pavilion at Riverfront, 574 N. Howard St. expo50spokane.com (509-625-6000)

FILM

GARLAND FREE KIDS MOVIES Screenings of free kids movies every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 11 am. See website for movie details. Free. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.org (509-327-1050)

GARLAND FREE SUMMER MOVIES Free movies every Sat/Sun at 2 pm. See website for details. Free. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland. garlandtheater.org

JED BROPHY MEET & GREET Meet Lord of the Rings actor Jed Brophy and get a personal item or provided picture signed. June 15, 11 am-1 pm. $30. The Comic Book Shop (NorthTown), 4750 N. Division St. fb.me/e/4jXRwOxvk

ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW A newly-engaged couple have a breakdown in an isolated area and must seek shelter at the bizarre residence of Dr. Frank-n-Furter. June 15, 11:45 pm. $10. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.org (509-327-1050)

SUMMER OF STUDIO GHIBLI: PONYO

An English-dubbed screening of Studio Ghibli’s Ponyo. June 19-21, daily at 2 pm. $5. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.org

FOOD & DRINK

THE WANDERING TABLE A nomadic restaurant featuring a 12-course dinner with local, seasonal products and producers paired with wine and cocktails. June 13, 6 pm. $120-$134. Honey Eatery & 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

RIVERFRONT EATS A food festival featuring local food vendors and live music. Tuesdays from 11 am-2 pm through Aug. 20. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. riverfrontspokane.org (509-625-6600)

BBQ & BANDS: JACKSON ROLTGEN: Live music by Jackson Roltgen. Dinner is pork loin. June 21, 5-7 pm. $20. The Culinary Stone, 2129 N. Main St. culinarystone.com (208-277-4166)

RIDE & DINE SERIES Enjoy a scenic gondola ride, live music and a barbecue meal. June 21-Aug. 30, Fridays from 3-7:30 pm. $8-$63. Silver Mountain Resort, 610 Bunker Ave. silvermt.com (208-783-1111)

MUSIC

LULLABY CONCERT Expecting and new parents are paired with professional musicians 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 (509-444-5300)

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

A NIGHT OUT WITH ACUTE INFLECTIONS An R&B duo known for their unique twists on well-known songs from

every genre. June 18, 6:30-8:30 pm. $15$35. Spokane Community College, 1810 N. Greene St. acuteinflections.com

THE WESLEY BELL RINGERS The handbell choir from Utah features 16 members playing more that 150 bells and chimes. June 20, 6-7 pm. Free. Audubon Park United Methodist Church, 3908 N. Driscoll Blvd. linktr.ee/thewesleybellringers

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

CITIZEN SCIENCE Collect samples to view under the microscope, or borrow supplies and a community log to look for the numerous species of birds that call the woods home. June 14, 10 am-2 pm. Free. Pine Street Woods, 11915 W. Pine St. ebonnerlibrary.org

DISC DOG FUN MATCH A dog frisbee competition with vendors, live music and an award for the top five winners. June 14, 6:30-8:30 pm. Free. Waterfront Park, 1386 S. Lefevre St. medicallake.org

SPOKATOPIA An outdoor adventure festival featuring bike demos, clinics, live music, brews and family 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

COLOR ME RAD An untimed 5K race where participants are doused in a rainbow of colors. June 15, 2 pm. $20-$60. Møde Work, 2110 N. Molter Rd., Liberty Lake. colormerad.com

MOVIN’ & GROOVIN’ RIDE An all-wheels ride on a flat loop featuring music. June 15, 7-9 pm. Free. Olmsted Brothers Green, N. Nettleton St. and Summit Pkwy. instagram.com/spokane_rides

SPOKANE IN BLOOM GARDEN TOUR A tour of 10 local gardens featuring vendors, music, artists and food. This year’s theme is sustainable gardening in honor of the 50th anniversary of Expo ’74. See website for details. June 15, 9 am-5 pm. $15. Spokane. tieg.org

SPOKANE INDIANS VS. EUGENE EMERALDS: Promotions during this six-game series include Baseball Hat Giveaway Night (June 18), Star Wars and Fireworks Night (June 22), Native Culture Game Day (June 23) and more. June 18-20, 6:35 pm, June 21-22, 7:05 pm, and June 23, 1:05 pm. Avista Stadium, 602 N. Havana St. milb.com/spokane

SUMMER PARKWAYS South Hill streets are closed to motorized vehicles and opened up to pedestrians, cyclists, runners, skaters and other human-powered recreation. Manito and Comstock parks. June 18, 6-9 pm. Free. Manito Park, 1800 S. Grand Blvd. summerparkways.com

HIAWATHA FULL MOON NIGHT RIDE

Ride the historic route of the Hiawatha Scenic Bicycle Trail under the light of a full moon. Riders meet at the east portal of the Hiawatha Trail. June 21, 7:30 pm. $40-$65. Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area, I-90 Exit 0. ridethehiawatha.com

THEATER & DANCE

CATS The Jellicle Cats come out to play on one special night of the year— the night of the Jellicle Ball. Wed-Sat at 7:30 pm, Sun at 2 pm (June 15 performances at 2 pm.) through June 16. $20-$40. Spokane Civic Theatre, 1020 N. Howard St. spokanecivictheatre.com

PLAYWRIGHTS’ FORUM FESTIVAL A

showcase of new one-act plays by regional playwrights. Plays are shown 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 a promise to be in each other’s weddings. 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, and local companies perform 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

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Shakespeare’s tale of a magical forest, mixedup lovers and mischievous fairies performed by Shakespeare CdA. June 20-22, daily at 6 pm. Free. Riverstone Park, 1800 Tilford. shakespearecda.org

SOUTH PACIFIC An American nurse stationed on an island during WWII falls in love with an expatriate French plantation owner but struggles to accept his mixedrace children. June 21-July 7; Thu-Fri at 7:30 pm, Sat-Sun at 2 pm. $25-$45. University High School, 12320 E. 32nd Ave. ssummertheatre.com

VISUAL ARTS

20 YEARS OF ARTWALK An exhibition celebrating 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/203/Third-Street-Gallery (208-883-7036)

SPOKANE ART SCHOOL FACULTY AND STUDENT SHOW An exhibition featuring staff and students. Mon-Fri from 10 am-5 pm through June 28. Free. Spokane Art School, 503 E. Second Ave. spokaneartschool.net (509-325-1500)

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

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

HEART OF THE COUNTRY An exhibition by artists Bridgette Costa and Laurie Haener featuring mixed-media works depicting their shared life. By appt. through June 29. Free. Kolva-Sullivan Gallery, 115 S. Adams St. kolva.comcastbiz.net

JEFF WEIR: GO WEST Weir is a Coeur d’Alene artist who brings life and feeling to ideas of days gone by in his oilon-canvas paintings of regional wildlife and figures. Tue-Sun from 10 am-5 pm through June 30. $7-$12. The MAC, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org

MASTER OF FINE ARTS THESIS EXHI -

BITION This exhibition features works by MFA candidates Mozi Jones and Reika Okuhara that have been honed through years of study. Tue-Sat from 10 am-4 pm through June 29. Free. Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU, 1535 NE Wilson Rd. museum.wsu.edu

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

LINNEA OLSON ART SHOW Elevenyear-old artist Linnea Olson showcasing over 20 pieces in various mediums. Daily from 9 am-6 pm through June 30. Free. North Spokane Library, 44 E. Hawthorne Rd. spokanelibrary.org

MATT SCHWENK: MONSTER This solo show explores the artist’s journey from childhood to adulthood and represents resilience and self-discovery. Thu-Sat from 4-7 pm through June 29. Free. Terrain Gallery, 628 N. Monroe. terrainspokane.com

SPIRIT DOLL WORKSHOP Participants build their own spirit doll. All materials supplied; feel free to bring material to add. June 13, 5-7 pm. Free. The Hive, 2904 E. Sprague. spokanelibrary.org

THOSE WACKY VICTORIANS An exhibit featuring aspects of late 1800s Victorian hobbies. Tue-Sat from 1-4 pm through Nov. 30. Free. McConnell Mansion, 110 S. Adams St., Moscow. latahcountyhistoricalsociety.org

SUBVERSIVE INTENT: SELECTIONS FROM THE COLLECTION EXHIBITION

Rarely displayed artworks from the museum’s permanent collection, spanning from historical pieces by Hogarth and Goya to contemporary works by Holzer and Shimomura. Tue-Sat from 10 am-4 pm through June 29. Free. Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU, 1535 NE Wilson Rd. museum.wsu.edu

LEELA FRANCIS & SHELLY MAT-

THEWS Leela Francis uses acrylic mixed media and collage and Shelly Matthews paints flowers. Daily from 10 am-9 pm through June 29, 10 am-9 pm. Free. Pottery Place Plus, 203 N. Washington St. potteryplaceplus.com

REUSE WORKSHOP Learn about creative reuse by getting hands-on and bring home your own craft. Free with admission to Mobius. Every second Thursday of the month from 10-11 am. Free. Mobius Discovery Center, 331 N. Post St. artsalvagespokane.com

RIVER RIDGE ASSOCIATION OF FINE ARTS EXPO ’74 SHOW Expo

‘74-themed art created by members of the River Ridge Association of Fine Arts. First Friday kickoff event on May 3 features custom radio programming, giveaways, a display of Expo memorabilia and storytelling by fair-goers. Daily from 7 am-7 pm through June 30, 7 am-7 pm. Free. Indaba Coffee Roasters, 518 W. Riverside Ave. rrafaofspokane. com (509-822-7182)

FRIDAY NIGHT PAINT: WASHINGTON SUMMER Paint a fun and colorful Washington-themed illustration in watercolor. June 14, 7-9 pm. Free. South Hill Library, 3324 S. Perry St. spokanelibrary.org

MADELINE GCGINN & THE HIVE ART-

ISTS-IN-RESIDENCE Saranac member McGinn displays new work in the east

gallery. Artists who’ve completed a residency at The Hive display work in the west gallery. Fri-Sat from 12-8 pm through June 29. Free. Saranac Art Projects, 25 W. Main. sapgallery.com

SECOND FRIDAY ARTWALK Stroll the streets of downtown Coeur d’Alene and enjoy locally- and nationally-acclaimed artists, along with local shops, restaurants and businesses. Second Friday of every month, 5-8 pm. Free. Downtown Coeur d’Alene, Sherman Ave. artsandculturecda.org (208-415-0116)

GRADIENT A show featuring 13 artists within the LGBTQ+ community. June 15July 5, Tue-Sat from 10 am-6 pm. Free. Emerge, 119 N. Second. emergecda.com

AMALIA FISCH AND HEIDI CARNEY: FIRST FRIDAY & SECOND SATURDAY

These receptions feature plein air paintings by both artists and live music by Jerry White and Freddie B. June 15, 12-5 pm. Free. Avenue West Gallery, 907 W. Boone Ave. avenuewestgallery.com

SUNSHINE AND MURALS: SUMMER WINDOW MURAL Participate in a collaborative window mural for the public to enjoy at the library. Aimed at young artists. June 18, 2 pm. Free. Shadle Library, 2111 W. Wellesley Ave. spokanelibrary.org (509-444-5300)

CROCHETING FRIENDS Learn new stitches, share patterns, crochet items for hospice or those in need and make friends with fellow crocheters. Every Tuesday from 4-5:30 pm at the Clark Fork Library. Tues., 4-5:30 pm. Free. Clark Fork. ebonnerlibrary.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 (509-444-5300)

CYANOTYPE PRINTING AND TEA

TONING Learn from Artist-In-Residence Justus Brozek about cyanotypes and ways to alter them with tannins and sunlight. June 22, 10 am-2 pm. Free. The Hive, 2904 E. Sprague Ave. spokanelibrary.org (509-444-5300)

WORDS

DROP IN & WRITE Aspiring writers are invited to be a part of a supportive writers’ community. Bring works in progress to share, get inspired with creative prompts and spend some focused time writing. Thursdays from 5:30-7 pm. Free. Spark Central, 1214 W. Summit Pkwy. spark-central.org

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 the wayfinding signs in the park to listen to each episode. Through July 7. Free. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. visitspokane.com

NATUREBRARY A nature and exploration-based program geared for ages 3-6 and their adults. Each week includes a brief story time with other activities. See website for location information. Sat from 9:30-11 am through July 25. Free. Sandpoint Library, 1407 Cedar St.

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. Through Aug. 7. Free. Page 42 Bookstore, 2174 N. Hamilton St. page24bookstore.com (509-202-2551)

DISCOVERY BOOK CLUB & SALON Discuss the topic of “Your Personal Flag” at the June meeting. This event takes place online. June 13, noon. Free. auntiesbooks.com

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

FRIENDS OF THE LIBERTY LAKE MUNICIPAL LIBRARY BOOK SALE Find 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

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

JENNIFER EGAN: THE CANDY HOUSE

Discuss The Candy House, a sequel to Egan’s 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

STORY AND CRAFT A read-aloud of a popular children’s book will be followed by an optional craft related to the story. Ages 3-7. Every Saturday from 11 amnoon. Cost of admission. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org

SANDPOINT STORYMAKERS A group focused on helping creative people achieve their dream whether it’s a novel or a video game. Every Tuesday from 5-6:30 pm. Free. Sandpoint Library, 1407 Cedar St. ebonnerlibrary.org

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. spark-central.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

MARY CRONK FARRELL: YOU CAN WRITE A BOOK! Author Mary Cronk Farrell discusses how to gain the confidence to finally write a book. June 20, 6-7 pm. Free. South Hill Library, 3324 S. Perry St. spokanelibrary.org

BOOKS & BREWS Local l authors meet with the public and autograph books in a book fair atmosphere. The event also features a selection of beer, wine, and more. June 22, 4-6 pm. Free. 1912 Center, 412 E. Third St., Moscow palousewritersguild.org

AUNTIE’S BOOK CLUB: QUEER & WEIRD Discuss Road to Ruin by Hana Lee at the June meeting. June 22, 6-7 pm. Free. Auntie’s Bookstore, 402 W. Main Ave. auntiesbooks.com n

BUSINESS

A Market, Regulated

Cannabis is a growing business, but Olympia is limiting its impact in Spokane County

BY WILL MAUPIN

In January 2018, KREM-TV ran a story titled “Are there too many pot shops in Spokane?” It was a fair question, but six years later it makes you wonder. Were there? Are there?

As the story noted, there were 33 licensed dispensaries in Spokane County in January 2018.

The cannabis industry has seen outrageous growth in the years since. But flash forward to 2024, and there are still 33 licensed dispensaries in Spokane County. The number has stayed exactly the same.

In fiscal year 2018, licensed dispensaries in Spokane County accumulated $100,699,410 in sales. In fiscal 2023, the most recent

year we have data for, legal sales in Spokane County rose to $134,755,213, or $34 million more than in 2018.

That’s a nearly 34% increase in sales, but it did not go handin-hand with an increase in places allowed to make those sales. The competition remained the same. There were 33 licensed dispensaries in Spokane County last year, just like there were in 2018.

In a capitalist, free-market economy, how can this be?

The brief answer is that because unlike other products, cannabis is regulated in a way that pulls it out of the free market.

A quota system applies to the cannabis market in Washington, and Spokane County is only allowed to have 33 licensed retailers, no matter how successful our market. The state limits the number of licenses.

In 2018, as the KREM story explained, there was a feeling among dispensary owners that there might have actually been too many stores in Spokane County, which had recently seen its licenses nearly double from 18 to 33. But KREM asked businesses about their direct competitors — who wouldn’t want to limit their competition?

It is clear that the market has grown, astronomically, but the state continues to limit it. What other product is so limited in Spokane County?

For now, Spokane County is stuck with a ceiling of 33 licenses in the retail cannabis industry. Until the state changes that limit, those 33 license holders are the extent of competition in the market.

As long as the license limit exists, Spokane County’s cannabis market will be hamstrung and competition will be limited. To me, that’s the opposite of having too many stores. As I see it, in a burgeoning market, we might not have enough competition. n

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.

Spokane County’s retail cannabis market is restricted to fewer than three dozen stores.

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