Inlander 06/22/2023

BY WILL MAUPIN

EDITOR’S NOTE

I’m a bit tall. At 6 foot 4, I reach a height that occasionally inspires a comment about playing ball. I don’t. My vertical jump is probably 3, maybe 4, inches. I’ve worn glasses since I was 12. I still subscribe to the pre-1979 NBA rule disallowing 3-pointers (because I’ve never made one).

A few years ago, I was walking downtown around the time of Hoopfest with a friend of mine, who is 4 inches taller than me. Though he also doesn’t play basketball, it was like we were visiting royalty. His outstretched frame lent my stature even more altitude, and people were convinced we were in town to clean up. In fact, we were just getting coffee.

Regardless, Hoopfest is a time for heroes and heartache. As thousands descend upon our closed streets to sweat, steal and dunk — and watch others do it — it’s a good time to reflect on just how much basketball means to us, which is what we do in this week’s cover story — A HISTORY OF HOOPIN’

We love our Zags and the 3-on-3 gamesmanship of Hoopfest. But there’s a lot more to celebrate on the courts of the Inland Northwest — including the painted public courts strewn around our parks. So get out and enjoy the game. Just don’t ask me to play.

— NICHOLAS DESHAIS, editor

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WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LEGO KIT?

NATHAN O’NEILL

I think it was the general kit, where I could just build whatever I wanted to. I was never somebody who wanted to have something to an end. Just give me the colors, and I’ll see what I can do.

BRANDON POEPPING

I had a castle — not the original one but the one in the ’80s. I put it together so much that I had the process memorized.

KIMBERLY WALKER

We had the primary color pack. My favorites were the ones my brother didn’t like, which had smiley faces on them. So, I would build a whole house out of smiley face yellow blocks.

How old were you when you stopped playing Legos?

I guess it’s been at least three weeks now.

GRANT HINDERS

We had a pirate ship. It was my uncle’s that I would play with when I was over at his house.

Were you ever a fan of any Lego video games?

I played a bit of Lego Star Wars on the Wii when I was young.

ANNA CUMBIE

Probably the Lego elves brand because they had dragons and castles.

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Choosing a New Path

effort to find a different way forward on homelessness is set to reveal its recommendations

BY GAVIN COOLEY, RICK ROMERO AND THERESA SANDERS

Decision time! In prior columns we have built the case for a whole new approach to addressing homelessness in our Spokane region. In March, 19 of 20 elected officials from the City of Spokane, Spokane Valley and Spokane County signed a joint statement agreeing to a 90-day due diligence period to formally consider how such a new regional and collaborative approach could be established.

Those 90 days have now passed, and, after hundreds of meetings, conversations and presentations across our community, we have scheduled an event to propose our recommendations for quickly moving forward to effectively manage homelessness in our community. That event, open to everyone, will be held at the Spokane Convention Center on Wednesday, June 28, at 8 am. Our elected representatives will be there, and we hope you can be too!

So what can you can expect to hear from us on the 28th? Simply this: a strong message

of hope and great opportunity wrapped around a detailed set of recommendations. The recommendations will focus on bringing together a critical mix of community assets to aggressively and effectively address homelessness across our

SPOKANE UNITE COMMUNITY EVENT

Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd.

June 28 from 8-10 am (doors open at 7:30 am) Free and open to public, no RSVP required Visit spokaneunite.org to learn more

region. To do this, our recommendations will focus on creating a new regional organization to develop and integrate resources around the closely related areas of homelessness, health and safety in order to address the needs of those experiencing homelessness, while also meeting all

of our expectations for a clean, safe and healthy community.

In the joint statement signed by our elected officials, the three of us were asked to address the following:

1. Review potential legal structures for a regional effort, including pro/con evaluations, e.g., public development authority (PDA), nonprofit and others.

2. Review and discuss initial funding, costs and other financial information in support of a regional effort.

3. Review and discussion of data collection and use in support of a regional effort.

4. Review potential governance models and best practices, including roles of jurisdictions, elected leaders and community stakeholders in coordination and support of a regional effort.

5. Review and discussion of initial staffing in support of a regional effort.

6. Review and discussion of how the success of a regional effort can be regularly quantified and evaluated.

On June 28, you can expect us to address each of those points in detail. And through learning about those six points, you will see a community vision that we believe is affordable — in fact, it’s a vision we simply cannot afford NOT to pursue.

Much has changed since we began this journey in March. Camp Hope, with 689 people at its peak, recently closed, and that is cause for celebration and gratitude for the hard work and resources that made it happen. Despite this and other successes, the county’s point-in-time homelessness count this January stood at 2,390, an increase of 36% over the previous year — and a 132% 10-year increase over the 2013 count. In other words, and as all of us know, there is much work to be done.

Yes, these are big community challenges facing all of us. But as the three of us sat together preparing our June 28 presentation, we realized how full of hope we all are. We’ve learned a lot these last 90 days, and while the challenges are greater than we first imagined, we also learned the opportunities are far greater! So it’s not hard for us to imagine Spokane coming together to quickly become a national leader on homelessness response. In so doing, we will turn the tide on the human tragedy of homelessness we see around us every day, while also rebuilding our community in a way that feels clean, safe and healthy to all of us.

We truly hope you can join us as we plan that future together on Wednesday the 28th. n

Gavin Cooley was the city of Spokane’s chief financial officer for 17 years, serving five different mayors, starting with John Powers. He currently is working with the city on projects including investments and the Spokane River Trail System.

Rick Romero is the former utilities director and director of strategic planning for the city of Spokane. He worked on a variety of projects, including the renovation of Riverfront Park, the Podium and the downtown Spokane football stadium.

Theresa Sanders was the city administrator and director of economic development at the city of Spokane. She oversaw all operations and major initiatives during the David Condon administration. The three of them are volunteering their time on this initiative.

Gavin Cooley

Rick Romero

Theresa Sanders

Things are not looking good for this year’s wildfire season, with hot weather, rapidly melting snowpack and a smaller fire season last year stacking the deck in the flame’s favor.

The Inland Northwest just had its hottest May on record, with an average temperature of 63.5 degrees (beating the normal average for June of 62.4 degrees, according to National Weather Service data), and this summer is expected to be hotter than normal. The region has also had lower than normal precipitation each month this year so far, which means drier soils.

While the harsh winter stacked up more than the average snowpack, more than half of that has already

melted.

On June 15, the Spokane River was flowing at 4,340 cubic feet per second by 1 pm, which was about half of the normal level, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The record low for that day happened in 2015, when the river was at just 1,220 cubic feet per second.

Last year’s fire season in Washington state saw the third-lowest number of acres burned in the past decade, which may have left shrubs and grasses from 2022’s very wet spring and summer ready to fuel fires this year, says Thomas Kyle-Milward, a spokesman for the state Department of Natural Resources.

“Some [recent years] have been the worst fire seasons

in recorded history,” Kyle-Milward says. “By all accounts this year will be another one of those years, and not like last year’s anomaly.”

Fires have already started popping up across Eastern Washington, and all of Washington and parts of North Idaho are forecast to have above normal risk for significant wildfires by July, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

The good news is, investments in new technology and equipment and changes to firefighting and prevention are in the works. While some of those changes won’t happen this fire season, they could make future years more bearable.

As the Northwest prepares for a bad wildfire season, new technology and response techniques could impact how many large blazes we get

BY SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL

A plane drops fire retardant on the Palisades Fire in August 2022. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

ENVIRONMENT

“WIRED FOR FIRE,” CONTINUED...

EYES IN THE SKY

One of DNR’s newest investments will use artificial intelligence to help spot fires on state-owned lands faster and get firefighters where they need to go.

Earlier this spring, the department announced a pilot project with Pano AI, a technology company based in California that was created to help combine 360-degree camera technology with detailed mapping and GPS data.

Under the agreement, Pano AI is putting 21 different cameras in critical places (usually on mountaintop cell phone towers) around the state to help spot fires. About half of those will be stationed east of the Cascades in Central and Northeast Washington.

The system works by taking a series of pictures that can be stitched into a full 360-degree view of an area every minute. The data is then sent through Pano’s AI, which is trained to spot smoke and hot spots at night with infrared imaging.

With cameras strategically stationed, the exact location of fires can be triangulated or paired with GPS data to help approximate the location.

When an incident is flagged by the computer, humans review the images to confirm and relay that information to fire departments, says Sonia Kastner, CEO and founder of Pano AI.

The idea for the company came to Kastner after working at the security camera company Nest and living in California through disastrous wildfire seasons.

“I was looking for ways I could use the technology I was aware of in Silicon Valley to make natural disasters less harmful,” Kastner says. “The tools that firefighters are using have not evolved rapidly over the last 30 years, but the challenge is getting worse and worse. … We need modern technology.”

The Pano AI reports may include a timelapse video so responders can see how it’s behaving and other helpful map data, such as the location of nearby water resources.

“The goal is to coordinate an aggressive response,” Kastner says. “We’ve designed our solution to facilitate a new trend in firefighting called rapid initial attack, where firefighting agencies and city, county, state, and federal agencies collaborate very quickly, like in the first hour, where it’s only five or 10 acres.”

George Geissler, Washington state’s forester and supervisor of wildfire operations, says the goal of the oneyear pilot is to see how well the cameras integrate with the detailed information systems the state already uses, and how they affect response times.

“Really the next big thing for us is the ability to not only get to a fire quicker but find those fires faster,” Geissler says.

WATER IN THE SKY

Another move that could soon help attack fires while they’re small passed through the Washington Legislature this year, after state Rep. Mary Dye, R-Pomeroy, spent seven years trying to get it to the finish line.

House Bill 1498 will enable local fire departments or districts to call in air resources to dump water before a blaze has grown so large that it requires a full mobilization of state resources.

Dye says she’s been fighting for the bill for years at the urging of small local fire districts in the rural areas she represents, including Adams, Asotin, Franklin, Garfield and Whitman counties, as well as some parts of Spokane County.

The fire that inspired the initial version of the bill

started out small in Asotin County. As the chief in that area tried to get approval to fly in aircraft, playing phone tag all day as crews fought the fire with brush trucks on the ground, the blaze grew, Dye says. Air resources that were initially denied were ultimately called in after the fire grew so large it required a state-level mobilization of firefighting resources.

“It’s clear the system is broken,” Dye says. “If they could just call out a couple of dumps of water with that air service, they could reduce the number of catastrophic fires we experience each summer. But the shot gets called from Olympia, not our local fire service.”

The new law will change that, but not until next fire season.

This year, DNR will create a program to register those smaller departments and ensure they’ve got the training on how and when to call in air resources. Once that’s in place, those departments can call in approved contractors and then notify the state, rather than waiting around for air support approval.

“If you give them an effective tool, they can do a lot with a little and stop a lot of the catastrophic state mobilization fires,” Dye says, noting that in some cases where aircraft were available right away, the costs were kept to a few thousand dollars, rather than the millions of dollars that megafires cost to battle.

In a compromise to help get the bill passed into law, it includes a sunset, expiring in July 2027. By then, the idea is that the state will have enough data on how the new protocol has been working to know if it’s helpful.

SMOKE (DETECTORS) IN THE SKY

While some on the West Coast have been less than sympathetic in recent weeks as the East Coast has struggled for the first time with hazardous air quality from wildfire smoke, sparking dozens of stories about things like the Air Quality Index, it’s likely the Pacific Northwest will experience the dreaded smoke season again, too.

The Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency, Spokane Regional Health District, Spokane County Emergency Management and other partners started getting the word out last week during “Smoke Ready Week.”

Their advice echoes that of recent years. When air quality starts to diminish, sensitive groups like children, the elderly and those with health conditions are the first to be told to stay inside. As more damaging particles fill the air, the Air Quality Index rises, and everyone’s health can be at risk.

To stay safe indoors, the agencies encourage people to have HEPA air filters that can run in at least one room of their home or to create their own by attaching a furnace filter to a box fan to pull smoke particles out of the indoor air. N95 masks can also help, but the first step should be to get out of the smoke, says Lisa Woodard, spokeswoman for the Clean Air Agency.

Just as air conditioning units and box fans fly off shelves during the first days of a heatwave, those filters can sell out during the first bad wave of smoke, so the agencies are encouraging people to prepare early.

This year, Spokane will also get more air quality monitoring technology.

Spokane/Spokane Valley was selected as one of 16 overburdened Washington communities that will receive air quality investments under the state’s Climate Commitment Act.

This region is scheduled to get one more regulatorygrade air quality sensor, adding more valuable information to the three regulatory sensors already in place

Number of days with unhealthy

around Spokane County. The state Department of Ecology will also install five more low-cost sensors that can help track more granular data about the pollution experienced in specific neighborhoods.

Households within the boundaries of the overburdened community map will be getting snail mail from Ecology this summer so people can weigh in on where those low-cost sensors should be placed, says Susan Woodward, communications manager for Ecology’s Air Quality Program.

The plan is to install the new sensors by year’s end.

PIE IN THE SKY

Since 1947, Smokey Bear has been telling anyone who will listen that “Only YOU can prevent forest fires.” While that was updated in 2001 to “Only you can prevent wildfires,” the underlying message hasn’t changed.

That’s because one of the harshest truths about wildfires is that human activity causes 81 percent of them.

Common causes include electric utility equipment, fireworks, campfire pits that are left too hot and spark back up again, people driving vehicles over tall grasses or using equipment in dry areas, cigarette butts, garbage burning, and arson.

Natural causes like lightning strikes start only about 15 percent of wildfires, according to data gathered by Challenge Seattle, a coalition of business and tech leaders in Washington.

While fighting fires makes sense to protect people and their homes, fire experts note that it’s important to remember the Western landscape evolved naturally to include fires, with some plants even requiring fire to germinate. Indigenous peoples understood the dynamics and sometimes started fires to aid in the natural process.

But a century of firefighting efforts (and some conservation efforts) have changed the landscape for the worse,

air due to wildfire smoke in Spokane County.

HAZARDOUS (AQI > 300)

VERY UNHEALTHY (AQI = 201 to 300)

UNHEALTHY (AQI = 151 to 200)

UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE GROUPS (AQI = 101 to 150)

YEAR

with smaller trees and fuels that would normally burn filling the forest floors with tinder, making it more likely that larger trees burn. Strategies are changing due to that knowledge.

DNR, which was allocated $500 million in 2021 to prevent and prepare for wildfires over the next eight years, is using some of that money to help communities make properties less susceptible to fire. The agency is also mechanically thinning forests to eliminate fuels, and in some cases operating prescribed burns, Kyle-Milward says.

In the meantime, DNR will deploy new equipment this season. The new resources include two fixed-wing aircraft with infrared and other scanning technology that can help map fires and send that information to crews on the ground, as well as 16 heavy dozers and four excavators.

Washington also received $39 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2022 to spend over the next five years to mitigate wildfires.

As Smokey points out, everyone can help by following burn bans, forgoing fireworks, properly disposing of cigarette butts and matches, and leaving their fire pits extinguished and cool enough for the ashes to be picked up. n

samanthaw@inlander.com

SMOKE SEASON RESOURCES

AIR QUALITY AND SMOKE: airnow.gov, spokanecleanair.org, wasmoke.blogspot.com

FIRES: gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc

RESOURCES: srhd.org, doh.wa.gov, spokanecounty.org/3007/Alert-Spokane

SOURCE: SPOKANE CLEAN AIR AGENCY

Team Players

In the race for Spokane City Council’s District 2 seat, is partisanship an asset or a liability?

BY NATE SANFORD

Affordable housing. Public safety. Homelessness. The people running to represent District 2 on Spokane City Council, which covers most of the city south of the river, all broadly agree on what the big issues are.

They use phrases like “multifaceted,” “wrap around services” and “smart density.” They all support plans to regionalize Spokane’s homeless response.

They say we need to encourage more housing, we need to invest in more mental health services, that there’s no simple solution, etc.

At the end of a candidate meet-and-greet in the Perry District last week, a voter noted that the three candidates who attended had basically spent the past hour agreeing with each other. The voter asked what actually set them apart.

Katey Treloar, an educator who founded a nonprofit to feed hungry kids and a company that coaches people with ADHD and other neurodivergences, thinks it comes down to partisanship.

“I’m the only candidate that is committed to being a nonpartisan candidate,” Treloar says.

City races are officially nonpartisan. Ballots come without an “R” or “D” next to candidates’ names. Treloar has “nonpartisan” in big bold letters on her yard signs.

But Treloar’s opponent, Paul Dillon, says that “Are you a Democrat?” is one of the most common questions he gets while doorbelling.

He is, and he’s not exactly subtle about it.

When voters ask which way Dillon leans, he proudly tells them about his experience as a legislative aide for state Sen. Andy Billig, D-Spokane, and his work with the local Planned Parenthood. He’s been an outspoken liberal activist for years and is a fierce critic of Mayor Nadine Woodward, who is conservative.

In between Dillon’s vocal progressivism and Treloar’s staunch nonpartisanship is Cyndi Donahue, a small-business owner. She’s been trying to avoid saying whom she supports for mayor publicly, but during our interview, she decides there’s no point hiding it.

“I’m supporting Lisa,” Donahue says.

It wasn’t a huge secret. Lisa Brown, the progressive former state Commerce Department director and former state Senate majority leader running to unseat Woodward, has donated money to both Donahue and Dillon’s campaigns.

Still, Donahue says she has a good relationship with Woodward and is prepared to work with whoever wins. Nonpartisanship is an important principle, she says, but in practice?

“I would like it to be about solving issues that we have,” Donahue says. “But what I’m finding is that it is inherently a political process.”

The fourth candidate running in District 2 is Mike Naccarato. He studied political science at Eastern Washington University and now works in procurement for a defense contractor. He hasn’t been attending recent candidate forums and hasn’t raised any money, but he sees that as a good thing. He describes himself as a “wildcard” who isn’t beholden to anyone.

Like Treloar, Naccarato says he’s committed to nonpartisanship, and he won’t say whom he supports for mayor.

The council district they’re running in traditionally leans more liberal than the other districts, and voters there have elected

progressives like Breean Beggs, Mary Verner and Jon Snyder. But it’s also been represented by Mike Allen, a political moderate focused on fiscal responsibility.

It’s currently represented by Council Member Lori Kinnear, who is reaching the end of her term limit and has endorsed Dillon to fill her seat.

When the Perry neighborhood voter asked what set the candidates apart, Dillon brought up police accountability.

All of the candidates support the recent law giving Spokane’s police ombudsman authority to investigate the police chief. But while Dillon is openly critical of Chief Craig Meidl, the other candidates are careful to stress that they support him and the difficult work he does.

Donahue and Dillon want to see the ombudsman’s oversight powers expanded. Treloar, who has been endorsed by the Spokane Police Guild, says she’d “absolutely be open to having those conversations.” Naccarato says he’d want to be cautious and see how things play out first.

Donahue thinks experience sets her apart from the other candidates. She points to collaborative relationships she built as a graduate of the Leadership Spokane program and as a member of the Community Economic Development Strategy Steering Committee through Ignite Northwest.

Donahue acknowledges that she and Dillon don’t have many opposing views. With Treloar, Donahue isn’t so sure.

Both Donahue and Dillon think Treloar is less “nonpartisan” than she lets on, pointing to her support for armed resource officers in schools during her unsuccessful run for Spokane Public Schools Board of Directors in 2019.

Treloar says it’s been awhile since she’s looked into the research on armed officers in schools, and she would leave decisions like that to the school board if elected.

Does Treloar consider herself a conservative?

“I consider myself a mom, a teacher, small business

Cyndi Donahue

Mike Naccarato

Katey Treloar

owner and a nonprofit organizer,” Treloar says. “All the choices that I make are going to be well-informed and bringing people from both sides to the table.”

Treloar sees Dillon’s vocal support for Brown as a liability. If Dillon is constantly bashing the current mayor on social media, Treloar says, how can he expect to work effectively with Woodward if she wins?

Dillon sees things the opposite way.

“I feel like Katey’s success depends on people not knowing everything about her,” Dillon says.

Treloar has raised more money than all the other candidates combined. So far, she’s reported $68,000 to the state Public Disclosure Commission, compared with Dillon’s $29,000 and Donahue’s $21,000.

Many of Treloar’s donors come from the conservative side of the political spectrum, including Mary Kuney, a Republican Spokane county commissioner, and Kim Plese, who unsuccessfully ran for the county commission as a Republican and is now running for Spokane City Council president with “nonpartisan” on all her yard signs.

But Treloar says she’s been working hard to get donations from people on both sides of the aisle. She notes that she’s supported by three former mayors of Spokane: David Condon, Dennis Hession and John Powers. She’s attending candidate interviews with the local Democratic and Republican parties — but doesn’t plan to accept endorsements from either.

Treloar’s campaign has also paid money to Majority Strategies, a marketing firm that advertises themselves as the “only firm to work with every official GOP nominee since 2000,” and to Crimson Consulting, which is run by a former staffer to Republican U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers. Crimson has also been hired by Woodward and Plese’s campaigns.

Treloar says she doesn’t pay attention to who else her consultants are working with. “I’m in my own lane,” she says. n nates@inlander.com

Paul Dillon

The Future of Hate

As Gonzaga crafts its next steps, some at the Center for the Study of Hate fear they may be left behind

BY SUMMER SANDSTROM

As Gonzaga University updates its goals and initiatives as part of the ongoing “Grand Challenges” strategic planning process, the future of the Center for the Study of Hate is in question.

Founded in 1998 following an increase in racially motivated instances of hate at the university and in the region, the center aims to create an inclusive and just society.

But both the former director of the center and the law professor who leads the editorial board of the center’s Journal of Hate Studies say the center has been left out of the strategic planning process and sidelined during the search for a new director.

Kristine Hoover, the director of the center from 2016 until earlier this year, says the center doesn’t seem to be a priority for the university. She believes that hate studies will still exist at Gonzaga, but possibly as part of another program, such as a Humanities Institute that she says may be created in the near future.

“Although people could continue the work within the Humanities Institute, it is no longer a focal initiative of the university if that’s the direction that the university goes,” Hoover says.

Gonzaga’s Board of Trustees will meet in July to vote on the strategic plan, but until then no decision has been made regarding the future of the center. University Provost Sacha Kopp says the strategic planning process “is in progress.”

“Gonzaga is in the midst of updating its strategic plan and will remain engaged in leading efforts to combat hate regionally and nationally,” Kopp said in an emailed statement.

Gonzaga is recognized as a founder of the hate studies field, especially as more universities create their own programs devoted to the issue, Hoover says.

“Higher education plays an incredibly impor-

tant role in how we understand and develop knowledge so that we know what efforts are effective or ineffective when we’re trying to counter the harm and the dehumanization that people experience,” she says.

The Center for the Study of Hate employs one part-time director and allocates $30,000 to the program and $5,000 for the Journal of Hate Studies Other staff and faculty volunteer for the center and work with the program’s graduate assistants.

Hoover served as the center’s director for two three-year terms beginning in 2016, during which past-Provost Deena Gonzalez created term limits that could be implemented for directors at the provost’s discretion.

Hoover served as past director this academic year and says she doesn’t know of other center directors who have been subject to term limits.

This April a search for a new director began, but Hoover says that process normally begins in the winter.

“I was involved in the search for a director that somehow was cut short without any real explanation to me at least,” says Mary Pat Treuthart, who leads the editorial board of the center’s Journal of Hate Studies

The strategic planning process began last fall, but Treuthart says it’s been difficult to receive answers from the administration about the longterm impacts the process will have on Gonzaga’s programs and centers.

“When the center fully participated in the process and none of the materials, ideas, suggestions or work of the center were included in the strategic plan, it became very clear that it was not part of the work that was going to be moved forward as a part of the strategic planning process,” Hoover says. n summers@inlander.com

Battling Discrimination

Spokane hires a former school board president to lead its civil rights office. Plus, the city gets more Texans and Arizonans; and a Juneteenth celebration.

Former Spokane Public Schools Board of Directors President Jerrall Haynes is the city’s first civil rights director. Haynes was appointed by Mayor Nadine Woodward earlier this month, and previously worked to develop the framework for the city’s Office of Civil Rights, Equity and Inclusion, which will investigate complaints of discrimination and violations of city law. Although Haynes had worked to create the office, his path to becoming the director was frustrating to many who felt that he was sidelined after Woodward appointed another applicant, who rescinded her application shortly after. The city budget funds the office’s director and two staff positions, and Haynes will begin his work by hiring staff to aid in the work of creating policies and programs to remove discriminatory barriers and to provide the community with education and support resources. (SUMMER SANDSTROM)

NEWCOMERS

Spokane is growing. But where are all the new faces coming from? During a Spokane City Council study session earlier this month, Patrick Jones, a researcher at Eastern Washington University, presented drivers license surrender data from Washington’s Department of Licensing that shows the top five states people are moving to Spokane from. The top three states are California, Idaho and Oregon, which isn’t a huge surprise. But the other two states — Texas and Arizona — were more unexpected. “Maybe we’ll get more direct flights to Arizona, Texas on the basis of this,” Jones said. Jones noted that out-of-state migration in 2022 was lower than the previous three years, and that most of Spokane’s growth is probably coming from in-state migration. But that data comes with a three-year delay, so it’ll be awhile before we can get an accurate picture of which Washington counties people are leaving in favor of Spokane. (NATE SANFORD)

JUNETEENTH

On Monday, activists and community groups gathered at Spokane’s Underhill Park to celebrate Juneteenth and call for an end to forced prison labor. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in America, but advocates say modern-day forms of slavery persist because of language in the U.S Constitution’s 13th Amendment that prohibits slavery and involuntary servitude, “except as a punishment for crime.” Members of the nonprofit All of Us or None staged symbolic banner drops in Spokane and 14 other cities across the country to call for the prison exception to be removed. In attendance on Monday was Spokane resident Stanley Harewood, who saw the prison labor system up close during the 13 years he was incarcerated. “Thirty cents an hour,” Harewood says. “It was slavery.” Spokane Community Against Racism and other organizations were also at the park to celebrate America’s newest federal holiday. (NATE SANFORD)

Live Lounge Entertainment

Jason Evans

FRIDAY, JUNE 23 RD & SATURDAY, JUNE 24 TH 6 PM - 9:30 PM

CHINOOK LOUNGE

Hailing from Spokane, Washington, Jason has an incredibly beautiful and soulful voice. Start your evening entertainment with jazzy, funky, and smooth music.

Heather King Band

FRIDAY, JUNE 23 RD & SATURDAY, JUNE 24 TH

8:30 PM - 12:30 AM

NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE

Join us in the Nighthawk Lounge for a night with The Heather King Band, a variety dance band performing a wide range of all music genres.

Chill out at our newest bar, located on the casino floor. The Chill Bar serves frozen blended drinks in foot-long plastic glasses, wine, beer and more. Open on large event nights, Fridays and Saturdays from 5 pm to midnight.

Must be age 21 or older to enter bar and lounge locations.

Jerrall Haynes | YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Another Brick in the Wall Another Brick in the Wall Another Brick in the Wall Another Brick in the Wall

Independent retailer Brick Buy Brick offers a Lego oasis in the Garland District

BY SETH SOMMERFELD

If you build it, will they come?

Frankie Foote and Bryce Colvin certainly hope so. The couple opened the independent Lego store Brick Buy Brick across from the Garland Theater on April 29. As the brick and mortar’s owners and only two employees, they hope its imaginative and nostalgic offerings bring in hordes of kids and kids at heart.

Opening the door to Brick Buy Brick transports customers into a wonderland of plastic construction blocks. Immediately to the right rests an 8-by-4-foot table of a rainbow assortment of Lego pieces. Customers can select one of three sizes of bags ($10, $18, $25) and fill them to the brim with bulk Legos for their own creative whims. Similarly, there’s a smaller table filled with various Lego mini-figure (the humanoid characters) parts, allowing patrons to build their own characters ($4 each or three for $10). But that’s only the tip of the proverbial iceberg (thankfully, the duo doesn’t have one of the $680 Lego Titanic models at the store, so that’s not really a problem).

There’s a wall packed with current new models, so Brick Buy Brick can stay up-to-date with the big-box stores, and vintage box sets for sale. Other fixtures in the store are loaded with Lego sets reassembled by four consignors. There are Duplos for toddlers, and a wall of small polybag sets. And then there’s the display case and big ticket items.

The glass display features many sections of minifigures for individual sale and an “allowance case” featuring mostly complete sets at a cheaper price so kids can afford them. Above the counter is a shelf of high-end sets well over $100, including a massive treehouse, roller coaster, and the Star Wars Mos Eisley Cantina (the most expensive set in the shop at $500).

The store sources its inventory from the Lego resale market BrickLink and various other online and local sellers. While Foote and Colvin are willing to buy Legos

from locals, they don’t accept walk-in sellers, so those looking to unload their bricks need to schedule an appointment via their website (brickbuybrickspokane.com).

But more than just a store, Brick Buy Brick hopes to become a hub for local Lego enthusiasts.

“It’s a good feeling having a place where the Lego community can finally start to come out of the woodworks and come together and stop feeling kind of alone,” Colvin says. “Because Lego, in my opinion, is more of a solitary, singular — you go home, it’s kind of a quiet room

and cake (it’s $175 for an hour-and-a-half party, or $300 for a party where everyone gets their own Lego polybag to build and take home).

Prior to Brick Buy Brick, a lot of the local Lego community only connected via Reddit, but Colvin and Foote hope to remedy that. For an older subset, the pair has lots of ideas brewing, like “bricks and brews,” “Legos and libations,” possible Lego team-ups with the Garland Theater, and even some adult show-and-tell events for grown-ups who craft their own impressive Lego creations.

or you got music on, and you sit down by yourself and build Legos. So I feel like a lot of Lego people are more introverted, so this is a great place to get people out to start sharing.”

To that communal end, Brick Buy Brick has party rooms available for groups of all-ages (mainly used for kiddie birthday parties so far). The store closes during such parties, which are designed for 10 kids to free build, play games with a Lego board mounted to one of the walls, and enjoy typical birthday activities like presents

Foote and Colvin actually met via the dating app Bumble in late 2020, but they hardly built their relationship upon a foundation of toy blocks.

“When we started dating, Bryce was actually in like a Lego dark ages,” says Foote. “So he hadn’t been playing or anything, but I was a nanny at the time, and one of my nanny kids was a hardcore Lego kid. But that kind of sparked that, ‘Oh, yeah. I used to love Legos.’ So it all restarted with Grogu and Mandalorian BrickHeadz.”

Colvin got back into his childhood Lego obsession

Dig through bins of loose bricks, build your own minifigs, or buy new box sets at Brick Buy Brick.

ERICK DOXEY PHOTOS

through Foote’s connection to kids, and in July 2022, the idea of getting into the Lego business emerged.

“Honestly, it was me joking around and daydreaming. I was a chef and manager at South Perry Pizza before I did this. And I had been in the food industry since I was 18. I loved the people there, but the work was so soul-sucking and monotonous,” Colvin says. “I said to Frankie, we could own a Lego Store. And she goes, ‘OK, I’ll start it!’ So she hopped on the computer and started looking at licensing.”

“We actually started by talking and kind of inquiring about doing a Lego franchise,” says Foote. “But we quickly decided that we wanted to be a hometown thing. We didn’t want to bring another franchise to Spokane, we wanted to bring something that could be here for years and years and years and years. And Spokane loves their small businesses.”

After initially searching for a spot on the South Hill, the duo found the ideal spot in their own ’hood.

“We live right in this neighborhood. You know, it’s really nice to have that. Like, there’s a lot of people who walk in and they’re like, ‘Oh, yeah, we live just around the corner!’ We’re like, ‘We do too!’ says Foote. “So it just is like a really good sense of community, and all of the Garland District business owners are just so welcoming and lovely.”

Both Foote and Colvin derive different joys from their niche toy store. For Foote, who also still works another job as an administrative assistant, it’s all about the people. For Colvin, it’s all about the pieces (he literally pays himself partially by having first pick at the bricks when they get in bulk shipments).

“I’m mostly into this for the customers,” says Foote. “Like we host birthday parties. And we’ve had multiple people be like, ‘Oh, good luck with that!’ But I love it. I love to corral kids. I like the excitement and the atmosphere — all of it.”

“I’m the Lego enthusiast,” says Colvin. “It started all the way back in 1997-98. My parents would buy me Legos, so I was kind of limited to what they got me. And now that I’m older, naturally, I want everything from when I was a kid. Everything that my parents didn’t give me.”

“I’m like a good handful of the kids where parents come in and they say, ‘Oh, so-and-so builds the set. They have the set for maybe a week, and then they destroy it for pieces,” Colvin adds. “That was me. I did the same exact thing. But over the years of just messing around, trial and error, I’m able to build really cool things now. We call those ‘MOCs’ which stands for My Own Creation.”

In a way, Brick Buy Brick is the ultimate MOC. Colvin and Foote hope running the business continues to feel like the satisfaction of completing a massive Lego set, and less like the pain of stepping barefoot on a stray piece. n

Brick Buy Brick • 3915 N. Monroe St. •

Open Tue-Sat noon-6 pm (until 7:30 pm Thu); Sun noon-4 pm • brickbuybrickspokane.com

THE BUZZ BIN

JOYFUL SPACE

BY SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL

For comedian and performer Camrynne Sullivan, getting into the standup comedy scene after moving back to Spokane in 2021 was… interesting

Compared to the more diverse clubs in New York City, where she was living and studying improv when the pandemic started, Sullivan says the rooms in Spokane didn’t seem to get her jokes sometimes.

She identifies as a lesbian or queer person — “I don’t think you can type Big Dyke Energy,” she says — and started signing up to perform with one of her friends, Jared Lyons-Wolf, who had also moved back to Spokane with his husband.

“We both missed the New York comedy scene so much. It was so queer,” Sullivan says. “We were also realizing that our jokes that landed in New York, because our audience was similar to us, weren’t landing as well with our audiences at the Spokane Comedy Club.”

So they started a queer open mic night at nYne Bar & Bistro, where comics gather every Tuesday at 8 pm for their chance to work on material.

At first, the signup sheet prioritized LGBTQ+identifying comics first, and allies second, but now Sullivan says the order doesn’t matter. If you’re straight, it’s assumed you’re an ally, Sullivan says, and if you make an ass of yourself, like the dude who made a “joke” about wanting to pee on people because “that’s what gay people do,” you won’t be invited back.

“We don’t tolerate racism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism — those jokes aren’t funny,” Sullivan says.

Springboarding off the success of that show, which has encouraged many people to try comedy for the first time, Sullivan started Space Queers, a comedy showcase at Lucky You Lounge that’s packed the venue’s basement three times so far.

“Spokane has this untapped queer comedic power,” Sullivan says. “There’s so many funny queer people here who came out of the woodwork.”

On June 29, Space Queers is getting a shot at Lucky You’s main stage upstairs, for their Pride Spectacular. About 15 performers are set to get on stage during the show, which Sullivan says features some drag performances in addition to comedy.

While there’s not a theme, per se, similar to other comics, the LGBTQ+ storytellers’ comedy is often a result of tragedy plus time, Sullivan says.

“There’s always elements of our experience which often include tragedy from oppressive laws and people who don’t view us as human and deserving of civil rights,” Sullivan says. “But the show is just queer joy. It is just pure fun and silliness. It’s spectacular.”

At the start of each show, Sullivan, in her astronaut costume, asks everyone in the audience to recite the Space Pledge, which she promises is funny and uniting. If you want to learn what it is, you’ve got to go to the show, she says.

“Everyone pledges they are a space queer, and we’re having this night where they’re all the same,” Sullivan says. “Allies are so welcome.”

She’s also happy to report that in addition to lots of laughs, some people have even found love at Space Queers.

“People have gotten together, are in relationships now,” Sullivan says. “It’s a great place to take someone on a date, especially if you’re queer. … To be there is to have fun.” n

SCULPTURE STROLL

Have you ever stumbled across a piece of public art in Spokane and wondered about the backstory or wished you knew more about the artist who created it? Thanks to VISIT SPOKANE and SPOKANE ARTS, all of that information is now just a click away! The new self-guided sculpture tour on Visit Spokane’s website features dozens of public art pieces that reside in the downtown area and are all accompanied by information about the artist and the stories behind their work. (You might even discover sculptures you didn’t know existed!) To try it out for yourself, go to tours. visitspokane.com on your mobile device, head downtown and get to learning! (MADISON

PEARSON)

STINGS OF POWER

What if women didn’t have to fear walking alone at night, going for a jog with their earbuds in or being trafficked for their bodies because they were as powerful as men? That’s essentially the premise at the center of Amazon Prime’s show THE POWER, based on a 2016 sci-fi book by the same name. It starts with teen girls suddenly getting the power to shoot electric sparks out of their hands, typically in moments of rage or fear, and morphs into an all-out assault on gender norms as more women gain the ability to do so. Suddenly, with power structures and sexist policies in flux around the world, how will the traditionally powerful react, and will those getting a taste of that power for the first time become corrupt? The beautifully told season features incredible global talent, including powerful portrayals by Ria Zmitrowicz, Zrinka Cvitešić, Halle Bush, Heather Agyepong, and Toni Collette. All episodes of season one are now streaming. (SAMANTHA

WOHLFEIL)

THIS WEEK’S PLAYLIST

Noteworthy new music arriving in stores and online on June 23.

KELLY CLARKSON, CHEMISTRY. The American Idol-winner turned daytime talk show host sorts through the emotions of her seven-year marriage that ended in divorce on her 10th studio album.

PORTUGAL. THE MAN, CHRIS BLACK CHANGED MY LIFE. Alaska’s greatest musical export won’t likely ever reach the omnipresent highs of “Feel It Still” again, but the band’s psychedelic pop rock still has plenty of pep to get ya groovin’.

SKATING POLLY, CHAOS COUNTY LINE. The Tacoma sibling trio follow up 2018’s stellar The Make It All Show with a double album loaded with hellraising, heartache (“Someone Like a Friend” ruins me) and “ugly pop” (the band’s blend of grunge, riot grrrl, and melodic alt-rock). (SETH SOMMERFELD)

Go on an intergalactic adventure with Space Queers. COURTESY PHOTO

With Space Queers comedy show, LGBTQ+ standup comedians and allies gather to laugh, sometimes about the hard stuff

A Wish Come True

A young actress lands dream role as Jasmine in the touring Broadway production of Aladdin

BY SUMMER SANDSTROM

Set in a world filled with swirling sands, genies and magic carpets, Aladdin is a prime example of what makes Disney princess movies so memorable to children throughout the world.

In a period when the entertainment industry greatly lacked diversity and representation, 1992’s Aladdin became the first Disney animated feature to include people of color as main characters, including the studio’s first non-white princess, Jasmine.

“Growing up, so many brown kids watched Aladdin and felt like it was their movie and it was their representation in the entertainment industry,” says Senzel Ahmady, who stars as Jasmine in Best of Broadway’s touring production. “Even if it wasn’t the best representation, it was some representation.”

On Broadway, Ahmady says casting POC actors and telling stories through non-eurocentric perspectives is still a new shift that’s emerging on stage.

“It definitely started out as a thing where there weren’t very many POC actors on Broadway to begin with, so anybody that wasn’t white was pretty much cast in Aladdin,” she says. “We finally saw our first brown actors, Michael Maliakel playing Aladdin and Shoba Narayan playing Jasmine, and since then we’ve seen more and more come from that, so it’s exciting in that sense, and I hope that it continues after this.”

Ahmady dreamt of playing Jasmine since she was 6 years old. She auditioned for and booked the role during her sophomore year at New York University, where she studies vocal performance and musical theater, prompting her to take a year off to pursue her passions.

“I wasn’t sure if I should leave school for it or not, but for me this is a dream role, and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity,” she says.

Jasmine embodies a sense of independence and spirit that sets her apart from other Disney princesses preceding her.

To Ahmady, Jasmine’s determination to stand up for her beliefs and for what was right, even when that meant fighting with those close to her to create lasting change, was inspirational.

And while Aladdin centers on Jasmine and Aladdin’s relationship, Jasmine maintains a strong desire to explore the world and breaks the traits of naivety and passivity present in many other Disney princesses.

“I love playing Jasmine because she’s a role model for so many girls and for me,” Ahmady says. “I’m also glad that Jasmine was the first POC princess that we got because I feel like she was the first princess overall that Disney kind of gave some agency to.”

While the Broadway version of Aladdin follows the same storyline as the original film, audiences can hear new songs that were originally intended for the movie but didn’t make the final cut due to time constraints, says Ahmady.

“I like to think of this as kind of a grown-up version of Aladdin,” she says. “It’s a great show for all ages, there’s definitely a lot of jokes in there for the adults. It’s the perfect first musical for kids to come and see.”

The production features an almost entirely new cast and crew, with only three returning members who worked on the tour prior to the pandemic.

“It was really fun to start this new tour up with brand new people and create this family on the road,” she says.

To Ahmady, working on the show has been surreal. While she’s performed on stage at New York University, this is her first ever professional production.

“I feel like so many of us who do musical theater grow up wanting to do it professionally, but you never

really know if you’re going to do it or not,” Ahmady says. “To actually be doing it as a job and to get paid for it is sometimes such a crazy feeling, but it’s so fun to be able to do what I love everyday.”

Ahmady particularly loves the scene when Aladdin and Jasmine meet in the marketplace, which reminds her of Maria and Tony meeting in West Side Story, as well as flying around on the set’s magic carpet while singing the iconic song “A Whole New World.”

“They put so much time and money into these costumes and the set design and composing the music,” she says. “When we’re starting the show and everyone is ready, and you’re just on the set, you’re in your costume and the music starts, it seriously just feels like you’re in the world of Agrabah and you’re in the movie.”

Every night, Ahmady sees young girls in the audience dressed up as Jasmine, and the excitement from playing her dream role and being a role model for future generations make the show even more meaningful for her.

“I always felt like Jasmine was my Disney princess,” Ahmady says. “To be able to be her for so many other people is super exciting.” n

Disney’s Aladdin • June 27-July 2; Tue-Sat at 7:30 pm, also Sat at 2 pm and Sun at 1 and 6:30 pm • broadwayspokane.com • 509-279-7007

Take a magic carpet ride with Jasmine and Aladdin. DEENVAN MEER/DISNEY PHOTOS

A HISTORY OF HOOPIN’

Spokane was a basketball town long before Hoopfest and the Zags put it on the map

BY WILL MAUPIN

Spokane may not be the “Mecca of Basketball” as New York City is often called, but the Inland Northwest’s rich hoops history more than justifies our city’s moniker of Hooptown USA.

Everybody here knows about Hoopfest, the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament that takes over the streets of downtown Spokane this weekend. Same goes for Gonzaga men’s basketball, which has been among college sport’s elite for over two decades. Those are the most visible aspects of Spokane’s basketball culture, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg.

It’s underneath the surface — where top-shelf coaches share their wisdom in the high school gyms packed with talent and on the playgrounds where local legends display the pure joy of the game — that Spokane’s credentials as a true basketball town are bolstered and burnished.

...continued on next page

Anyone can sink some baskets on the Hooptown courts in Riverfront Park, which are painted with a mural called “The Heart of Spokane.”

“A HISTORY OF HOOPIN’,” CONTINUED...

THE COACHING TREE

Mark Few, Tommy Lloyd, Ray Giacoletti and Jerry Krause at the college level. Jim Redmon, Freddie Rehkow and Glenn Williams in the high schools. They’re names that younger generations would be familiar with, but they’re just the latest coaches carrying the mantle here in Spokane.

Just ask ESPN’s Neil Everett.

“Spokane’s had some really good coaches. Squinty Hunter at Lewis and Clark, Dave Robertson at Shadle are I think the two greatest. And then, you know, the college coaches at Gonzaga,” says Everett, a Lewis and Clark High grad who spent 23 years on-air at the worldwide leader in sports. “That’s a great coaching tree.”

One name that can’t be left off the list is a Hall of Famer who got the job done at both the high school and collegiate levels.

Jud Heathcote, the rock of West Valley basketball throughout the 1950s and ’60s, spent 14 seasons coaching and teaching in Millwood. From there, he moved on to Washington State and Montana before finding Magic (Johnson) at Michigan State.

After two decades and a national championship (1979) with the Spartans, Heathcote retired in 1995 and moved back to Spokane. It wasn’t just the city where he cut his teeth at West Valley High, but also where he met his wife, Beverly.

Heathcote quickly became a fixture at an up-and-coming college basketball program that few outside the region could properly pronounce: Gonzaga.

“Having Jud in the stands as a season ticket holder was just a great image for us as a basketball program,” says Mike Roth, the former longtime athletic director at Gonzaga.

More than just a fan in the stands, Heathcote became a mentor to the young Gonzaga coaching staff of the late ’90s and early 2000s. The weekly lunch meetings at Jack and Dan’s between Heathcote and the Zag coaches became such a staple that one was included as the opening segment of a three-part ESPN documentary on GU hoops called The Season

“He really helped in those early stages with the credibility of Gonzaga basketball,” says Roth.

One of Spokane’s coaching legends wasn’t even drawing up plays for a specific team. Fred Crowell reached more players than any Spokaneite by founding NBC Camps in 1971.What started with 108 boys in rural Cusick, Washington, has grown into a multinational organization teaching about 11,000 kids per year.

Despite the growth, NBC Camps is still a family affair based in Spokane.

“[Fred] was just bigger than life, loved people and had tons of energy, lots of joy, and a real passion for teaching basketball,” says Jennifer Ferch, Crowell’s daughter and current chief operating officer of NBC Camps. “He had a real huge heart for the underdog, too. He loved those kids, and he wanted to give them skill sets.”

Crowell coached well into his 70s, even as he spent his final 12 years battling cancer. He will be honored as a member of this year’s class of the Hooptown Hall of Fame as part of Hoopfest.

Spokane native Jud Heathcote and Magic Johnson in 1980. MICHIGAN STATE ATHLETICS PHOTO

The roots of Mark Few’s coaching tree are right here in Spokane. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

BASKETBALL AND BEYOND

elcome back to Hoopfest 2023 and the Best Basketball Weekend on Earth! We were so thrilled with the turnout last year, and we’re even more excited about the numbers for this year’s Hoopfest — 4,200 teams! At the end of the day, Hoopfest is just a basketball tournament. But to many people, including myself, Hoopfest is something bigger and more impactful than just a basketball tournament. It’s a way to connect with family and friends who have a common bond through sports and Spokane; it allows everyone to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Over the last 33 years, a lot about Hoopfest has changed. But our goal of putting on the best 3-on-3 basketball tournament has never wavered. This is impossible to do without the players, volunteers and spectators who make Hoopfest what it is. We are so grateful for you and everybody who participates in Hoopfest. Thank you for allowing us to create this incredible event, and we hope your experience here in Hooptown USA is one to remember!

Riley Stockton Hoopfest Executive Director

FIND YOUR COURT

FULL MAPS OF ALL HOOPFEST COURTS

START ON PAGE

11

WNEED TO KNOW

STA BUSES The Spokane Transit Authority offers a Hoop Loop on Saturday, June 24, from 6 am to 8 pm, and Sunday, June 25, from 7 am to 6 pm. Leave your car at one of two Park and Ride locations: the STA’s Jefferson Park and Ride and the WSU-Spokane lots in the University District east of Division. Park at either of the locations and ride a shuttle down to the courts. An All-Day Pass – unlimited rides on any Hoop Loop bus route – is available both days for $2 per day. More information: spokanetransit.com/Hoopfest; (509) 328-RIDE (7433)

PARKING All parking garages are open during Hoopfest, with access provided to entrances and exits. Street parking where available is paid until 7 pm Saturday, but free all day Sunday. The Parkade is offering day and weekend passes; more information can be found on the Hoopfest website under “Travel.” Please note that the Parkade closes at 9 pm.

TEN CAPITAL TEAM CHECK-IN Ten Capital Team Check-In will again be in the Central Plaza, just west of the U.S. Pavilion inside Riverfront Park. Ten Capital Team Check-In will be available during the following times: Thursday, June 22, 3 pm to 7 pm; Friday, June 23, 11 am to 7 pm; Saturday, June 24, 6:30 am to Noon (for out-of-town teams only).

LOG YOUR WINS Mobile scoring is now available, which means that you can drop your score sheets off at the Avista Scoring Kiosks located on: 1) Riverside and Post; 2) Main and Washington; 3) the Visit Spokane Information Center in Riverfront Park; 4) The Plaza in Riverfront Park (located next to the U.S. Pavilion); and 5) the North Channel Bridge located near the north entrance to Riverfront Park.

SPOKANE HOOPFEST STORE Get exclusive gear only at the Spokane Hoopfest Store! Make sure to stop by our Hoopfest Store, in our new storefront location, 707 W Main Ave #A3, next to T-Mobile and Lululemon. Inside, don’t miss our Local Corner, featuring exclusive Hoopfest/Great PNW gear available for the whole family. This year’s poster, designed by Propaganda Creative, features the Groves brothers, Tanner, Jacob and Dylynn, local legends and longtime Hoopfest veterans. The official 2023 basketballs, provided by Baden Sports, showcase the Monroe Street bridge. There are three different ball sizes this year, each featuring a different color piping: Size 5 (27.5”) blue piping; Size 6 (28.5”) red piping; and Size 7 (29.5”) white piping.

NORTHERN QUEST CENTER COURT Hoopfest is excited to have Northern Quest Center Court return to the heart of the city, under the U.S. Pavilion in Riverfront Park. Northern Quest Resort & Casino is owned and operated by the Kalispel Tribe of Indians and has served the Inland Northwest as a community partner for more than two decades. Northern Quest Center Court will be action packed and the place to watch former college stars, local legends, National Champions and slam dunk extraordinaires.

TEAM HOOPFEST

RILEY STOCKTON Executive Director

ROB DAVIS Site Director

GIFF MARLEAU Program Director

CHAD

SMITH Director of Volunteers & Staffing

STEPHEN

OPLAND Projects & Events Director

RACHEL

ZAROWNY Sponsor & Partnership Manager

ROWAN ANDERSON AND JAMIE COPELAND

Marketing Managers

HOOPFEST OFFICIAL EVENT GUIDE SPONSOR

Idaho Central Credit Union is excited to be part of the Spokane community, and we are here to serve you, no matter what your financial needs are. Stop by one of your local Spokane branches to see for yourself how we can help you achieve your financial success, or visit us online at iccu.com.

(Not Pictured: Chad Smith, Jamie Copeland)

ALWAYS BACK FOR MORE

Since 1990, Spokane’s basketball community has shown a passion and commitment to the game by making Hoopfest an annual tradition. Some in that community have taken things a step further by making their participation in Hoopfest an annual tradition.

These “perennial players” have been taking to the courts in Downtown Spokane every summer since that inaugural event. It’s an exclusive club, with about 30 who have played every year the tournament has happened. (The 2020 and ’21 events were canceled due to Covid.) They’ve seen Hoopfest grow from a small basketball tournament into what we now take for granted, but must have been unthinkable then: The greatest basketball weekend on Earth.

A few perennial players sat down to share some wisdom and memories from their now 30-plus-year Hoopfest careers:

SKIP TEMPLETON

Thanks to a group of friends who worked at a Downtown department store, Templeton found out about that first Hoopfest back in 1990 and they convinced him to lace up his sneakers and join them on the court.

“I remember going down there and seeing all these wooden backboards, and I just thought, ‘How are they shutting down the streets? How are they having this tournament in Downtown Spokane? How are they going to pull this off?’”

A former high school player, Templeton was taken with the event. Not only has he been back every year since, but he spent 20 years on the Hoopfest board of directors as his way of giving back to the event he fell in love with.

He recalls one year, back in the early days, when he helped block off streets downtown on Friday evening, though the task ultimately lasted well past midnight. Pushing a loaded wagon around the city center, Templeton estimates he logged 20 miles that night.

“We would literally get done about two in the morning, and then the next morning I had to play. I was younger then, but it was tough,” Templeton says with a laugh.

Those experiences have helped build a strong sense of respect for the volunteers who make Hoopfest happen, like the very same court monitor Templeton had for 13 years straight.

“Same guy. We’d show up every year and he’d know us by name. He’d know almost everybody by name.”

STEVE STOCKTON

It should come as no surprise that there’s a Stockton — yes, those Stocktons — among the crop of perennial players still dribbling and driving their way around Downtown.

While he may be part of a legendary Spokane basketball family, he doesn’t always put family first.

“It’s funny, as the years went on it got more and more important to keep the streak going. I told the boys, ‘don’t even think about getting married on Hoopfest, because I’ll get there but I’ll be in-between games.’”

Fortunately, Hoopfest is a shared priority for that basketball family. Steve’s son, Riley, is the executive director at Hoopfest. The weekend really is a family affair.

Aside from staying in shape and playing throughout the year, Stockton’s advice for anyone looking to put together a multi-decade streak at Hoopfest as he has is simple. Enjoy it.

“You obviously want to do well, but over the years you just… these guys that you’ve played against so many times, it’s just fun getting caught up with them and getting caught up with their families. So it does become way more social. Walking around and seeing people and all the positive energy that’s in the city during that period is just really, really cool.”

BRIAN BETTS

He’s the youngest of these three perennial players and may well be the youngest of them all considering that as an 11-year-old in 1990 he had to play with older kids to compete. (His dad, Rick, was one of the co-founders of Hoopfest.) Still, Brian Betts understands that keeping his streak alive for all these years hasn’t entirely been within his control.

“The key to play every year is just to make the commitment to be around and be available for the event. Obviously that’s one. And then two, I’d say probably just a little bit of luck,” Betts says with a laugh. “Not being hurt and the willingness to keep diving on the cement every year despite, you know, getting older.”

Aside from luck, there’s a sense of gratitude that has kept Betts coming back every single year. He says his favorite memory every year isn’t the event, but the ending when players help peel the tape lines off the court.

“You’re so exhausted, you just barely have energy to pick up the tape, but you still love it because that’s just what the event is.”

A key to making it all the way to picking up the tape? Hydration.

“I just drink as much water as possible in between games, even if it doesn’t seem like I need to.”

He learned that lesson while taking part in an ultra-marathon. Though some may argue that three decades of Hoopfest is an even more impressive feat.

Meet three of Hoopfest’s perennials, who have laced ’em up in downtown Spokane every year since 1990

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DUNKING, EXPO-STYLE

Past, present and basketball all come together at Northern Quest Center Court

The Pavilion in Riverfront Park was a gift from the United States government to honor Spokane for being selected to host the 1974 World’s Fair — Expo ’74. Its original purpose was to house the U.S. exhibition at the World’s Fair, so it’s only fitting that now it’s home to Northern Quest Center Court in Hooptown, USA.

When the city renovated the Pavilion in 2019, 45 years after the World’s Fair, the plans were drawn up with Hoopfest in mind.

“It is a crown jewel of Hoopfest,” says Riley Stockton, executive director of Hoopfest, of Northern Quest Center Court. “Last year was our first year under the Spokane Pavilion, and I don’t think it could have gone better. It is just the perfect place for Hoopfest to be in the center of Spokane.”

Not only is the iconic structure a visually stunning backdrop for the high-level basketball that is played inside of it, but it’s true to the center court name. As Hoopfest has grown, the event has expanded beyond the downtown core and onto the burgeoning north bank. That puts the Pavilion smack dab in the center of Hoopfest.

Much like how Northern Quest is the epicenter of entertainment in the Inland Northwest, Northern Quest Center Court will once again be the epicenter of basketball at Hoopfest.

“You’re going to have the elite bracket games throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday, but you’ll also have activities like the Numerica Cash Dash, the MultiCare Slam Dunk Contest, not to mention other activations to get people excited about Hoopfest,” says Stockton.

With one year under their belt at the Pavilion, the people behind the scenes at Northern Quest and Hoopfest aren’t making any big changes to Center Court this year, just minor tweaks to improve the experience for players and spectators.

That said, the relationship between Hoopfest and Northern Quest is much older than the one year they’ve been together under the Pavilion.

“Northern Quest has been a long-term partnership for Hoopfest,” says Stockton. “They’ve been our app and team tracker sponsor for a while now. They’re still doing that, and we’re super excited to have them back.”

Beyond the activities that will draw spectators to the roughly 4,000-seat Pavilion, Northern Quest Center Court’s location on a grassy, tree-lined island surrounded by flowing water makes it an ideal spot to kick back and beat the midafternoon heat.

CENTER COURT HIGHLIGHTS

There’s always something happening at Northern Quest Center Court, but here are some of the big events.

FRIDAY

Noon Idaho Vandal players lead a skills clinic for grades 1-6

1 pm Team mascots tip it off for local bragging rights

SATURDAY 10:55 am Numerica Credit Union Cash Dash Finale

2 pm MultiCare Slam Dunk Competition prelims

SUNDAY 3 pm MultiCare Slam Dunk Competition finals

After 3:30 pm Men’s 6-Foot-And-Under Xfinity Elite Championship

After the 6-Foot-AndUnder game Men’s Open Xfinity Elite Championship

LOCAL GREATNESS

Afresh crop of local hoops legends comprise the 2023 class of the Hooptown Hall of Fame. Like last year’s class, which included national names like John Stockton and local pioneers like Jeanne Eggart Helfer, this year’s class honors a diverse group of people who impacted the game in various ways.

“I think Spokane is so unique nationally because there is such a love of basketball,” says 2023 inductee Shann Ferch. “Hoopfest has always tried to

“A lot of people told me I should stick with soccer because I’m only 5-foot-5. That’s probably another reason I picked basketball — people telling me I shouldn’t.”

—

Stacy Clinesmith

Stacy Clinesmith

Before you could find her patrolling the sidelines as an assistant coach at Gonzaga, or see her playing point guard for the Sacramento Monarchs and Detroit Shock of the WNBA, Clinesmith was leaving her mark on the court as a standout at Mead in the early ’90s.

Briann January

During her time at Lewis and Clark, January helped build the foundation for a dominant era of Tigers basketball. As a senior at Arizona State, she appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. The sixth pick in the 2009 WNBA Draft, January won all-star and championship honors over her 14-year playing career.

do things that honor the history of basketball and all the teams and families that have had so much joy and love for the game.”

Displays honoring these players, coaches and pros who helped define Spokane’s basketball culture, along with those for previous inductees, can be seen year-round at the Hooptown Hall of Fame, located under the shelter next to the Community Courts in Riverfront Park.

Whitworth Men’s 1996 Team

With a roster full of upperclassmen, these Pirates were set for success — and they delivered. The Pirates posted a 26-5 record, won the Northwest Conference and finished the season as national runners-up. It was the best season in program history.

“It’s just the competitive nature in me… Getting a turnover, leading the break, and getting an easy two points hyped me up.”

— Briann January

They got Whitworth’s president to shut down the school and launched a last-minute caravan — six buses, countless cars — that traveled 400 miles to reach the title game.

In its second year, the Hooptown Hall of Fame celebrates two of the best women players to ever come out of Spokane — and that’s just the start

Photo provided by: The Spokesman-Review

Photo provided by: Clinesmith family

Photo provided by: Arizona State University Athletics

“He truly was a maverick in the sport, being able to give people quick, easy, intuitive changes that would make a big difference in their games.”

— Jennifer Ferch, on her father, Fred Crowell

Fred Crowell

Basketball in the Inland Northwest wouldn’t be where it is today without Crowell and his NBC Camps. Founded in 1971, NBC Camps has grown into one of the largest youth basketball camps on the planet. Crowell was a lifelong coach who spent more than five decades helping kids develop not just as players but as people, too.

“[Basketball]’s been a lot of joy… it’s very important for the brotherhood and friendship through the years. And that brotherhood in this town takes care of each other.”

Shann Ferch

After a standout collegiate career at Montana State and Pepperdine, and a pro career in Germany, Ferch has become a pillar of the Spokane basketball community. While not a true perennial, Ferch’s longevity and tenacity have made him a Hoopfest legend. “It’s certainly an honor,” he says.

HALL OF FAME CEREMONY

Join in as the new class of Hooptown Hall of Famers are officially added to the honor roll. The event is at 6 pm, Wednesday, June 21, at the Hooptown USA court complex, North Bank of Riverfront Park. Purchase tickets at EventBrite.com

— Shann Ferch

Photo provided by: The Spokesman-Review

Photo provided by: The Spokesman-Review

HOOPS & HEALTH HOOPS & HEALTH

mission

Since 2017, MultiCare has been the official medical partner of Hoopfest. This year, MultiCare is expanding its partnership in accordance with its mission of “partnering for healing and a healthy future.” MultiCare will still be providing the “healing” with multiple medical tents where players can get no-cost help to patch up any bumps or bruises, so don’t worry about that. It’s what else MultiCare is doing that leans into the “healthy future” part of its mission.

Dozens of kids from Northeast Spokane will be receiving scholarships to participate in Hoopfest at no cost to them. In total, MultiCare is paying the way for 20 teams.

“We did that in partnership with the Northeast Community Center,” says MultiCare Marketing Director Andrew Canning. “They had reached out to Hoopfest and brought up the fact that they had some kids who were in need of teams and that scholarships could probably benefit those communities.”

graders for the 20 scholarship teams.

“We call this place home,” Canning adds, “and so our mission of partnering for healing and a healthy future goes well beyond that commitment to medicine, and it inspires us to reach out to these underserved neighborhoods and really do some awesome work. I think our partnership with Hoopfest and the connection that we have with the work that they’re doing is a great example of our mission at work.”

The MultiCare teams will be outfitted with full uniforms, all the way down to the shoes, and provided with healthy snacks and hydration to keep the players in peak competitive condition all weekend long.

You don’t have to be one of the players on the MultiCare teams to benefit from MultiCare’s commitment to health at Hoopfest. They will be staffing multiple medical tents around the event — check the maps in this Official Guide for those locations — where free treatment will be provided

MultiCare’s commitment to healing and a healthy future is on full display as they help support the Hoopfest

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DOWNTOWN NORTH OF THE RIVER

HOOPFEST APP

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FOOD VENDORS

Ali’i Hawaiian Shave Ice

Azars

Beamae’s Seafood

Gumbo & Sweet Treat

Ben & Jerry’s

Berry Kabob

Best Buzz Coffee

Big Daddy’s Banh Mi’s

Cascadia Pizza Co.

Dippin’ Dots

Egg Roll Express & Teriyaki

Good ‘Dilla

Gourmet Soul BBQ

Hawaiian Shave Ice

Huckleberry

Scoops

Kettle Krazy

Kona Ice

La Pica Chica

Longhorn Barbecue

Lush Cotton Candy

Lylo’s Teriyaki

MacDaddy’s nomnom

Old Fashioned Kettle Corn

Papa Murphy’s Pizza Rita

Raspados & Hot Dogs Del Sur

Sengsational Cuisine

Smokenhagen Sno Pros Concessions

Tacos Camargo Tea’s Company

Terry’s Breakfast

The Bibby Booth

The Churro Hut

The Döner Haus

The Lemonade Guy And Corn Dogs

The Twisted Churro

Tre Palline Gelato Napolitano

Wake Up Call Coffee

Woodard Family Farms Doughnuts

HOOPFEST 2023 WEEKEND SCHEDULE

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21

6 to 9 pm: Hoopfest Hall of Fame dedication ceremony at the Hooptown USA court complex, North Bank of Riverfront Park; Tickets at EventBrite.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 22

3 to 7 pm: TEN Capital Team Check-In and Player Changes in the Central Plaza of Riverfront Park next to the US Pavilion

3 to 7 pm: Hoopfest Store in our new storefront location, 707 W Main Ave #A3, next to T-Mobile and Lululemon

3 to 7 pm: Toyota Shootoff

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

11 am to 7 pm: TEN Capital Team Check-In and Player Changes in the Central Plaza of Riverfront Park next to the US Pavilion

11 am to 7 pm: Hoopfest Store in our new storefront location, 707 W Main Ave #A3, next to T-Mobile and Lululemon

11 am to 7 pm: Toyota Shootoff in Riverfront Park, just north of the Orange Bridge (prequalification round)

Noon to 1 pm: Join current Vandal players on Northern Quest Center Court for a skills clinic. Open to grades 1-6

1 to 1:30 pm: Mascot showdown, see Joe Vandal in action as he takes on other mascots in a 3-on-3 scrimmage at Northern Quest Center Court

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

6 am to 8 pm: STA Hoop Loop

6:30 am to Noon: Ten Capital Team Check-In in the Central Plaza of Riverfront Park next to the US Pavilion

7:50 am: Opening Ceremonies and National Anthem at Northern Quest Center Court

8 am: Tip-Off (site-wide)

8 am to 6 pm: Hoopfest store in our new storefront location, 707 W Main Ave #A3, next to T-Mobile and Lululemon

9 am to 6 pm: Rodda Paint Contest Zone on the corner of Spokane Falls Blvd and Wall St, next to the Numerica Skate Ribbon

9 am to 6 pm: Toyota Shootoff in Riverfront Park, just north of the Orange Bridge (prequalification round)

10:55 am: Numerica Credit Union Cash Dash Finale at Northern Quest Center Court

11 am to Noon: EWU Adaptive Athletics Exhibition at the Hooptown USA court complex, North Bank of Riverfront Park

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

2 to 2:55 pm: MultiCare Slam Dunk Competition at Northern Quest Center Court (prequalification round)

SUNDAY, JUNE 26

7 am to 6 pm: STA Hoop Loop

8 am: Tip-Off (site-wide)

8 am to 5 pm: Hoopfest store in our new storefront location, 707 W Main Ave #A3, next to T-Mobile and Lululemon

9 am to 1 pm: Rodda Paint Contest Zone on the corner of Spokane Falls Blvd and Wall St, next to the Numerica Skate Ribbon

9 am to 1 pm: Toyota Shootoff in Riverfront Park, just north of the Orange Bridge (prequalification round)

1 pm to 4 pm: Toyota Shootoff in Riverfront Park, just north of the Orange Bridge (quarterfinals, semifinals and finals)

3 to 3:30 pm: MultiCare Slam Dunk Competition (finals) at Northern Quest Center Court

CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES

(game times are Sunday after 3:30 pm)

GESA Elite HS Championship at GESA High School Center Court, just outside US Pavilion

Men’s 6-Foot-And-Under Xfinity Elite Championship at Northern Quest Center Court

Men’s Open Xfinity Elite Championship at Northern Quest Center Court

JUNE 29-30, 2024: Hoopfest Weekend returns!

POSTERIZED! POSTERIZED!

The mighty Groves Spokane basketball family has landed brothers Tanner, Jacob and Dylynn on some seriously exclusive real estate — the Official Hoopfest Poster

It’s a family affair on the Hoopfest poster once again this year. Following in the footsteps of last year’s edition featuring Lacie and Lexie Hull of Central Valley and Stanford, this year’s poster takes flight with the Groves brothers: Tanner, Jacob and Dylynn.

“Basketball was always something that all three of us boys, we just fell in love with the game,” says Jacob, the middle brother. “We played a lot of other sports growing up, but basketball was the sport where our heart was.”

Basketball stole the Groves brothers’ hearts as kids, and then they turned around and stole the hearts of Inland Northwest basketball fans during their time at Eastern Washington University.

In the 2021 NCAA Tournament, the Groves brothers helped the Eagles take the fight to the powerhouse Kansas Jayhawks. Tanner led the way with 35 points, and Jacob added 23 as EWU nearly pulled off the upset.

From there, the two eldest brothers moved on to the Oklahoma Sooners, where they have spent the past two seasons.

“It was definitely a change of scenery to move out of Washington, go to Oklahoma, and experience basketball at a different level,” says Tanner,

the oldest. “Now I’m able to appreciate Washington basketball in a sense that I think it’s a bit of a hidden gem. Obviously Spokane and Hoopfest play a major part in that.”

Dylynn, the youngest, remembers watching his older brothers take to the streets at Hoopfest when he was too young to get on the court himself. Now a rising sophomore at Gonzaga Prep, Dylynn is blazing his own basketball trail just like Tanner and Jacob before him.

“We’ve lived most of our lives playing or coaching basketball, it’s something that my husband and I both really enjoyed doing,” says Tara, their mom and a former college basketball standout at Whitworth. “To have them fall in love with it like we did was just really awesome.”

“It’s like a kid’s dream to play Division I basketball, to get to travel around and play in the different arenas and play some of the teams they’ve been fortunate enough to compete against,” says Randy, their dad, and former Shadle Park and CCS player. “They’ve lived that dream, and Tara and I have lived it through their eyes. Getting to experience that as a family is pretty special.”

The eldest Groves brothers have spent most of their careers playing together, from Shadle Park to

Eastern and then onto Oklahoma, but there’s now a fork in their road.

Tanner wrapped up his senior season as a Sooner this spring and now looks forward to a professional career. Jacob, meanwhile, has one year of college eligibility remaining and will be playing his final season at Virginia, for another Inland Northwest basketball legend: former Washington State University head coach Tony Bennett.

“That was one of the things that I think really made the relationship that me and Coach Bennett have just click from the get-go,” Jacob says of their shared local connection.

With Jacob off to the East Coast, Tanner joining the professional ranks, and Dylynn grinding at G-Prep, this upcoming season will see the Groves brothers more scattered around the basketball world than ever before. After graduation at Oklahoma and just before Hoopfest, the trio was able to find their way back to Spokane.

It was the first time since Christmas that the whole family had been back at home, proving true what it says on the poster about how “all roads lead back to Hoopfest.”

From Left to Right Tanner, Dylynn and Jacob Groves

PHOTO BY

TAKE YOUR BEST SHOT

TAKE YOUR BEST SHOT

MULTICARE SLAM DUNK CONTEST

Watch as Hoopfest’s best athletes defy gravity at Northern Quest Center Court in the Pavilion! Qualifying round is Saturday, June 24, at 2 pm; the finals are Sunday, June 25, at 3 pm. It is $10 to participate.

RODDA PAINT CONTEST ZONE

Show off your long-range game at this year’s 3-Point contest, your clutch shooting in the Free Throw Contest or your ability to hit from all over the court in the Hot Shot Contest at the Rodda Paint Contest Zone on Spokane Falls Boulevard by the Numerica Skate Ribbon. Saturday from 9 am -6 pm or Sunday from 9 am - 1 pm, entry is $5.

XFINITY ELITE DIVISION

The Elite division hosts teams of the best ballers at Hoopfest, many of whom played at some of the highest levels of the game. Find the games at the Xfinity Elite Division along Spokane Falls Boulevard.

TOYOTA SHOOTOFF

The annual half-court shooting contest runs Thursday through Sunday in a new location this year — inside Riverfront Park, north of the Orange Bridge. Three half-court shots cost you only $10; if you make one, you’re in the quarterfinals. Surviving finalists gather at 3:30 pm Sunday for a chance to win by dropping a half-court shot. The last man or woman standing drives home this year’s completely Hooped Out 2023 Toyota RAV4.

July

1. Dadbod Squad

2. Just Dood It

3. AllBackNoLegs

4. Swish Kabobs

5. Kareem Cheese

6. Swish Cheese

7. Bol Bols Bowls

8. Real Swish Shady

9. Nacho Average Squad

10. Bad Knees and Threes

11. FakeJsRealBuckets

12. Taco Cats

13. Blue Collar Ballers

14. Shaqtin’ A Fool

15. Cookin’ Currys

16. Mama Said KnockU Out

17. Six Pack Disciples

18. Sparkle Ponies

19. Nose Pick and Roll

20. Kawhi So Serious

21. Aggressively Average

22. Brotein Shakes

23. Mini Mamba

24. Hoopless

25. Straight Outta Shape

2 0 2 3

8th - August 12th

The Washington State Senior Games, in its 26th year of running the largest Olympic-style multi-sport event in Washington, is held at various sites throughout the South Puget Sound.

Proud Media Sponsor of Hoopfest

AIM FOR THE ART

Amazon and

As a community event, Hoopfest is about a lot more than just basketball. Which is why for the second year Hoopfest has partnered with Amazon on the Amazon Backboard Contest.

Local artists were given the chance to submit designs to be featured on backboards at this year’s event. Of the entries, 13 were selected and will be on display at courts in the parking lot of the Liberty Building at Spokane Falls Boulevard and Stevens.

“With more than 30 years of history in Spokane, Hoopfest holds a special place in the hearts of our community,” says Amazon’s Keri Pravitz, manager of community engagement and public policy. “Many of our Amazonians grew up with great memories of the tournament, as spectators, players and coaches. We’re proud to celebrate local artists at Hoopfest with such a unique tradition.”

Crystalynn Varozza

A wife and mother of four, Varozza has been working in design since 2015 with her brand Pollen and Pine Apparel.

“One thing that attracted me to this city was all the cool architecture. When thinking of Hoopfest, I wanted to create a design that incorporated basketball but also the city and state that hosts the event.”

Owen Hickman

A lifelong Spokanite, the 17-year-old Hickman is a graphic design student with a passion for art and basketball.

“Basketball has been a big part of my life, from watching Gonzaga with family and friends, to playing out in the streets on late summer nights and actually competing in Hoopfest a few times.”

Jonathan Witt

“I am really excited for Hoopfest this year,” says 11-year-old Witt, who will be taking part in the event as both a player and an artist, thanks to his cosmic Sharpie and colored pencil backboard design.

“Something that inspired me was the universe connecting to basketball and Hoopfest. There are a lot of little details on my backboard: the black lines inside the thicker purple ones all connect; the sun, planet and comets are all basketballs. When you take a closer look, the basketball comet contrails change colors.”

Henry Kujawski

An artist and athlete, 15-year-old Kujawski’s design was inspired by some of his favorite artists, Vexx and Gawx Art, as well as the art and design he sees around Spokane.

“My goal with this design was to make something that people found joy looking at and reminded them of the awesome city we call home. I tried to make a playful doodle full of Hoopfest- and Spokaneinspired drawings.”

OPERATING COMMITTEE

Awards

JENNIFER CHAPARRO

Communications and Security

A BIG HOOPFEST THANK YOU!

men and women of our subcommittees and volunteer positions.

You help us create magic, enrich lives and build a community every year. Thank you for all you do. And a special thank you to all Hoopfest court sponsors! We couldn’t do it without you.

— Hoopfest Team

MAJOR SPONSORS

JIM DIBBLE

LANCE DAHL

NATHAN MULKEY

KEVIN KELLER

DAVID OVERHOFF

TOM MICHAUD

Computer Applications

PAT DEVER AND MIKE BUSBY

Contest Activities

ARIANNE JOHNSON

Court Taping

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Scott Jones Board Chair

Rick Betts Founder

Danny Beard

Brandon Haugen

MEDIA SPONSORS

MEDIA SPONSORS

Helen Higgs

Hubert Langenhorst

Mike Nilson

Rob Hartman

Tom Psomas

Shelbie Rabe

OFFICIAL SPONSORS

1-Stop Media Action Apparel

Baden Sports

Bank of America

College H.U.N.K.S

Hauling Junk and Moving

Davenport Hotels Collection

Eastern Washington University

First Interstate Bank

Gesa Credit Union

Gray Studios

Idaho Central Credit Union

Lee & Hayes

Propaganda

Creative

Ptera

Quantum Fiber

Rodda Paint

Takis

TDS Fiber

Ten Capital Wealth Advisors

The Great PNW Visit Spokane

University of Washington

Walker Construction

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Dick’s Sporting Goods

King Beverage

LT Real Estate & Property Management

NBA All-World

No-Li Brewhouse

Northwest Orthopaedic Specialist

Open Square

River Park Square

Small But Mighty

Tito’s Handmade Vodka

T-Mobile

US Foods

Washington State Senior Games

RJ DEL MESE

Electrical Services

JIM DESTEFANO

Elite Division

JIM JACOBSON

High School Center Court

HEIDI SWARTZ

Information

CHARLOTTE FINNEGAN

IT Connectivity

DON HARTZOG

Maintenance Engineering

DAVE JACKSON

Master Scoreboard

SARAH OLSON

Merchandise

CLAIRE RAAP

Monitor Headquarters

GINA SCOTT

Northern Quest Center Court

HOLLY ELMER

Recycling/Clean-Up

CHRISTINA RIDENBAUGH

Retail Beverages

DARCY MARKHAM

Site Team Organization

SCOTT JONES

BLAKE JONES

Special Projects

JOHN KOENIG

BEV STAMPER

JIM OLSON

Sponsor Garden

KARI KOSTELECKY

Team Check-In

KATHLEEN SULLIVAN GARMAN

Tip-Off Party/Hospitality

KELI RILEY

Traffic Safety

ADAM JACKSON

Volunteer Coordination

CATHY SANTANGELO

Volunteer Lunches

JULIE LAIRD

DINING & DRINKS

3 Ninjas

Baba

Bean and Pie

BRGR House

Craftsman Cellars

Hello Sugar

Indaba Coffee Roasters

Maryhill Winery

Molé

Nectar Wine & Beer

New Love Coffee

The Scoop

The Tea Boba Bar

Umi Kitchen & Sushi Bar

Versalia Pizza

Sorella

Yards Bruncheon

SHOPPING

Boutique Bleu

Fleet Feet

French Toast Mama & Mini

The Great PNW

Kendall Yards Night Market

Marmot Art Space

My Fresh Basket

Prairie Dog Mercantile

William Grant Gallery & Framing

SERVICES

Bloom Aesthetics

Core Pilates & Wellness

Inlander

Kendall Yards Welcome Center

Mom’s Custom Tattoo & Piercing

The Regenerative Institute

Spark Central

KENDALL YARDS NIGHT MARKET

Every Wednesday through Sept. 20th

LIVE. PLAY. DISCOVER.

Experience the breathtaking sight of the sun setting over the river gorge from the patio while enjoying a meal. Encounter friendly faces as you cross paths with friends along the trail. Discover talented local food artisans just steps away from your doorstep. Immerse yourself in the joy of outdoor concerts and appreciate the beauty of public art. Foster a sense of community by knowing your neighbors. This exceptional urban neighborhood thrives on connection, making it the ultimate destination for living, dining, working, and engaging in recreational activities in Spokane.

For more information on our community scan here

kendallyards.com

“A HISTORY OF HOOPIN’,” CONTINUED...

GIRLS GOT GAME

March 31, 2018. That’s when an ESPN television audience learned something that high school basketball fans from Washington had known for decades: Spokane is home to some amazing, under-the-radar girls basketball.

That was the day Central Valley completed an undefeated, 29-0 season by upsetting the top-ranked girls high school team in the country to win the national championship.

The squad was led by Lacie and Lexie Hull and a swath of other future Division I college ballers. The Hull sisters followed up their high school national championship with a collegiate championship for the powerhouse Stanford Cardinal in 2021. The following year, Lexie would be picked 6th overall in the WNBA Draft.

Those Bears teams of the late 2010s were just the latest in a long line of exceptional girls basketball programs to emerge from the Greater Spokane League. Spokanearea teams have won 18 of the past 35 4A state championships.

“When I took our team [to state] in 2012 and we came in second… I felt like I had let down the GSL because we didn’t complete the task when most of the GSL had,” says Freddie Rehkow, the former coach at Central Valley.

Shadle Park brought the region its first 4A title in 1988, defeating local rivals Lewis and Clark in the championship game. Shadle would go back-to-back with another title in 1989.

Mead followed that pioneering Shadle team’s lead, making three straight title games from 199092 and winning two. The Panthers would win another just four seasons later with future WNBA point guard and current Gonzaga assistant, Stacy Clinesmith, leading the way.

Central Valley was the next dynasty from Spokane, with three straight trips to the championship game from 2000-03 resulting in a pair of titles.

Lewis and Clark managed to do one better, with back-to-back-to-back championships from 2006-08, and another in 2011. The foundation for that run of titles was laid down by Briann January, who played at LC from 2002 through 2005. The culture she helped build would lead LC to the promised land and propel her to Arizona State University and a 14-year WNBA career.

The players who followed January at LC included multiple future high-level college players, including another future WNBA player in Katelan Redmon. Heather Bowman would go on to set the Gonzaga women’s record for career points scored.

Another future WNBA player, Angie Bjorklund, was leading Spokane Valley’s University High at the time of LC’s run.

Gonzaga Prep won a pair of titles in 2014 and 2015, which were bookended by championships from Mead in 2013 and the start of Central Valley’s second dynasty in 2016.

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The Hull sisters — Lexie, left, and Lacie — followed up their high school national championship at Central Valley with a collegiate championship at Stanford in 2021. STANFORD ATHLETICS PHOTO

LC alum Briann January.

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS PHOTO

Between 2016 and 2020, Central Valley won three state championships and the region’s first national title. From 2016 through 2018 the Bears won 83 games and lost just once

Now, with the winning Gonzaga women’s basketball team, there’s a steady stream of top talent coming to play in front of big crowds in Spokane, carrying on the tradition.

“It starts with the youth programs,” Rehkow says of the abundance of girls basketball talent here in Spokane. “We have a lot of those young ladies who went through the youth programs, or AAU, and you have Hoopfest, which a lot of the kids grew up playing.”

PANDEMONIUM AND PROTEST

On the boys’ side, Spokane area high school teams haven’t fared quite as well. Sure, Gonzaga Prep won three state championships during the 2010s (including two straight in 2018 and 2019) and Ferris won a pair in 2007 and 2008, but beyond that, there’s not much to show.

In the 100-year history of the state tournament, Spokane teams have claimed just 14 4A titles.

Success at the 4A level has been found overwhelmingly by teams from the talent-laden areas around Seattle and in the Portland suburbs of southwestern Washington.

That’s not to say there haven’t been some dominant teams or memorable moments.

Lewis and Clark was led by E. L. “Squinty” Hunter for 39 years, from the 1920s into the ’60s. From 1933 through 1944, Hunter’s Tigers were the undisputed giants of Spokane basketball, winning the city league for 12 consecutive seasons.

At the state level, however, they managed just one tournament championship during that run. Under Hunter, LC would win two other titles, one in 1926 and another in 1949.

Spokane’s boys may lack the historic dominance and dynastic runs at the state level found on the girls’ side, but they gave us one iconic moment that trumps all others in Washington high school basketball history.

It was the 1981 state championship game. A classic cross-state showdown. Mercer Island versus Shadle Park, led by future Super Bowl MVP Mark

Rypien.

It ended with pandemonium, protest and probation. For those of a certain age, the winning team isn’t necessarily the one that took home the trophy, but rather the one from your side of the Cascades.

“I was at that game. I was a freshman in college, and I drove up to Seattle to watch,” says ESPN’s Everett, whose stepfather Dave Robertson was the coach at Shadle Park.

With just seconds left to play, Mercer Island took a 1-point lead at the free throw line. Shadle hurried up the court, and the ball found its way to Greg Schmidt on the block. He caught it and shot it in one motion.

The horn that would normally go off automatically when the clock reaches zero malfunctioned.

Schmidt’s shot went in, but the Mercer Island players thought it was late and began to celebrate. Their band rushed the court. In the commotion, however, the officiating crew signaled that the shot counted. Shadle Park 66, Mercer Island 65.

After a moment of confusion, the celebration swung from one side of the arena to the other.

“Years later I got video of that game and of that finish. That was back before the basket would turn red, and back before they had video replay,” says Everett. “We looked at that video — it wasn’t just me, this was at ESPN — the folks who looked at the video with me said the shot looked to be good. We took it down frame-by-frame, and it appeared that the ball left his hand before the buzzer went off.”

Mercer Island would not return home emptyhanded, though their reward certainly wasn’t a championship trophy. The state’s interscholastic athletics association slapped the program with probation for unsportsmanlike conduct after the game.

LOCAL COURTS AND LEGENDS

Spokane is a city of parks and by extension a city of playground hoops.

“Whoever’s in charge of the courts [at Riverfront Park], I think they should do more” courts like those, says DaShawn Bedford, a filmmaker and

“A HISTORY OF HOOPIN’,” CONTINUED...

former Spokane Community College player. The Spokane Hoopfest Association is responsible for the new courts in Riverfront Park, and they certainly are doing more.

There are no better outdoor courts in the Inland Northwest than the 30-plus that Hoopfest has built and maintained over its three decades in Spokane.

They’re hotbeds for playground pickup games now, much like courts in West Central or Chief Garry Park were back in the day.

They’re where you might find the next local legend. The next “Step Back” Bobby Jack Sumler, a standout player at Lewis and Clark and Spokane Community College in the late ’70s and early ’80s. His legend was cemented on playground courts and gyms around the city.

“Let’s just say he didn’t look like your typical ball player. Everybody else was geared up in UNLV, Duke, Michigan [merch]. If you didn’t have that gear, that look, can you really play?” recalls DaShawn Bedford.

“Those who know, know,” says Everett. “Bobby Jack was as good a baller as any that ran the courts in those days. He had the

wingspan of a Marvel character. The 3-point line wasn’t around back then, but if the 3-point line was in play back then, it would’ve been all over.

“The first Spokane Hall of Fame was John Stockton, Bobby Jack,” Everett adds regarding the 2021 Hooptown USA Hall of Fame class. “To be in that initial class and to be grouped with a guy like Stockton, who’s one of the greatest NBA players ever, it shows you what a legend Bobby Jack was. Sometimes a legend doesn’t live up to the truth, but for Bobby Jack it does.”

HOOPFEST 2023

The world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament fills the streets of downtown Spokane this weekend, June 24-25.

Details at spokanehoopfest.net

While he’s still teaching kids the game of basketball here in Spokane, the legend of Bobby Jack lives on nationally as well, in part thanks to Everett’s role at ESPN.

“I never really knew he had a national presence until one day someone’s like, ‘Did you hear [Everett] call Bobby Jack’s name out?” Bedford recalls. “He’s like, ‘Step Back Bobby Jack, from the Dick’s parking lot!’”

The catchphrase became a regular of Everett’s when doing NBA highlights on ESPN’s SportsCenter.

“He was just a guy that you couldn’t help but love. I’m really blessed to call Bobby Jack a friend,” says Everett, echoing a sentiment you’ll hear from anyone who knows the man behind the legend.

And who knows? The next Spokane basketball legend may be taking the court this weekend. n

“…one day someone’s like, ‘Did you hear [Neil Everett] call Bobby Jack’s name out?’”

Hall of Famer Bobby Jack Sumler. HOOPFEST PHOTO

HAUTE CUISINE, HOT BEEF

Chef Philip Stanton exchanges fine dining for burgers and beer to launch BRGR House in Kendall Yards

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

“Sometimes when you limit options, you get more creative,” restaurateur Philip Stanton says, sitting across a table wearing Adidas streetwear, his curly hair peeking out from under a Seattle Mariners cap.

“Instead of having everything to work with and being overwhelmed by all the possibilities, you just have a single thing that you have to do.”

He’s talking about why he transformed his experimental fine-dining restaurant into a neighborhood burger joint.

Previously the chef-owner of Park Lodge Restaurant, Stanton opened BRGR House in the same Kendall Yards’ location, sandwiched between Hello Sugar donut shop and the Centennial Trail. The new, more approachable eatery offers only burgers and fries, plus the obligatory beer and cocktails. Far from limiting, Stanton sees this

as the perfect fit for his team’s passion for creativity and excellence, plus the neighborhood’s love for quality and sustainability.

At BRGR House, the clean, modern interior of a high-end restaurant remains. A polished wooden trellis frames a classy, well-stocked bar. Floor-to-ceiling, southfacing windows showcase a fire-lit patio overlooking the river. Original contemporary art adds abstract pops of color. A striped Maori mask, surely 4 or 5 feet tall, hangs from the ceiling. (Stanton says it was a gift from Greenstone developer Jim Frank, who likes spending time in New Zealand and gifts an art piece to every new restaurant in Kendall Yards.)

What greets guests as they enter isn’t a hostess stand anymore, but an order counter and a casual walk-up system that lets you choose your burger right away, pick up a number and find your own table. Self-service counters

with water, silverware and napkins let you take care of yourself. Open a tab at the bar if you like. An openconcept kitchen lets you see into the back of the house to watch culinary artists at work. Enjoy your meal uninterrupted by stuffy black-tie wait staff. Stanton himself might be the one busing your table.

Stanton, a Spokane native, has spent most of his life in restaurants. He started as a dishwasher at Denny’s in Pullman, then moved through the fine-dining scenes in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Portland. He’s an artist, inspired by fresh, local ingredients and obsessed with new creations. Nothing about that has changed, even at a joint that only serves beef.

BRGR House’s chefs use an open-flame Argentinian grill, fueled by apple and cherry wood. The menu design still relies on boxes of seasonal produce and minimally

BRGR House goes back to basics with its burgers-only menu. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

processed meats. Stanton grows his own herbs in a garden right off the patio, including a pineapple sage plant over 5 years old. (Stanton laments losing his French tarragon, especially because he says it’s a plant he can’t buy seeds for anymore.) He even dreams (even if it could never logistically happen) of raising a few of his own cattle next to the restaurant, ever committed to fresh, high quality, farm-to-table eats. To him, it’s not a philosophy reserved for exclusive dining.

“We’re taking that and using a concept that provides food that’s familiar to everyone,” Stanton says.

Some things on the menu are definitely familiar. The Classic BRGR ($16) is a thick, 6-ounce patty topped with lettuce, onion, pickle, white cheddar and the house’s secret BRGR sauce. (You might expect tomatoes, but Stanton refuses to serve fresh tomatoes that aren’t locally grown, and a nearby tomato won’t be ripe until mid- to late summer.) Tiny smashburgers ($4) are one of Stanton’s favorites. Stack two smash burgers with pickles and sauce to make one Mighty BRGR ($10), or go ahead and order a whole bag to take home ($35).

Stanton offers other creations for the more curious eater, like a Grilled Meatloaf BRGR ($25), which wraps meatloaf in bacon and tucks it between buns with baby spinach and fried onions. The Almost BRGR ($10), a black bean sloppy Joe, gives a meatfree option to the less carnivorous. Salads ($9-$18) are available — Cobb, Caesar, Mediterranean and wedge all make an appearance — but everyone knows we want the fries ($4 small; $7 large) which also come with the house’s special sauce.

Much like his new restaurant, Stanton himself seems to inhabit two worlds.

“My mom was a college professor,” Stanton says. “Most of my family’s all been… well, that’s the route they’ve done with their lives.”

Stanton is demure about the fact that his father, Peter Stanton, is the CEO of Washington Trust Bank. During college, the chef toyed with a different career route.

“But I just ended up back in kitchens,” Stanton says. “I started to take it more seriously as a potential career for me, and [now] I don’t need anything else.”

Stanton may have found the way to combine his passion and creativity with a relaxed, low-barrier experience.

“Spokane’s got a great market for people wanting more out of their food,” he says. “What a burger is always meant to be is an easily accessible piece of food. It’s just something that everyone can enjoy. I think we’ve made a nice space that is welcoming to everyone.” n

BRGR House • 411 N. Nettleton St. • Open Tue-Sat noon-8 pm • brgr.house • 509-340-9347

Saucy Burgers and Hot Buns

Shelby’s Burgers fires up a retro smash burger diner in southwest Spokane’s Latah Valley

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

Susan Shelby first learned about hospitality from her father. He was a grocer, a local businessman who knew the power of a personal touch, like sending a crate of oranges to each new client for Christmas.

Shelby, with a similar knack for food and branding, grew into a savvy restaurateur herself. She owns Latah Bistro, Latah Latte, and Wine & Taps. Her newest venture is Shelby’s Burgers, an authentic, retro smash burger joint next door to her fine dining establishments in west Spokane’s Latah Valley. After two years scouring LA for the best smash burger secrets, Shelby opened her roller-derby-chic diner on June 12, offering a sassy, saucy, fast-casual dining experience to residents of nearby Eagle Ridge and beyond.

“This is the walk-up window right here,” Shelby says, motioning to a big sliding window under a black-and-white striped awning.

High-top tables and bright yellow chairs fill up the patio. Order out here or inside, where you can sit at the stainless steel counter and watch patties sizzle on the grill right in front of you, like the concessions stand at a baseball game.

“So this is also like a walk-up diner — a breakfast, lunch and dinner bar,” Shelby says.

Neon signs shaped like french fries and milkshakes hang in the windows at Shelby’s. Framed tributes to the Bing Crosby theater, Gonzaga University and classic cars decorate the walls. Merch with edgy vintage vibes, like a 1950s housewife smeared with ketchup saying “Don’t tell my husband” or a girl with a burger peeking out from her skirt stamped “Hot Buns,” is available for purchase.

“I wanted to have character,” says MacKayla Miller, longtime manager of Latah Latte who’s now overseeing Shelby’s. “All the other places in LA kind of seemed the same as each other.”

Shelby and Miller didn’t just look around LA. They ate their way through every famous smash burger joint to decide what was worth bringing back to Spokane.

They settled on a “laces out” burger, a patty so paper-thin that the lacey edges caramelize on the hot griddle. With equal parts charm and stubbornness, Shelby convinced her sourcers at the longtime local supplier Angus Meats to create a new beef blend unique among all burgers in Spokane. The result is a patty with a chewy texture closer to steak, with its crispy edges spilling

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A blueberry, citrus and spice cocktail at BRGR House. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO

Shelby’s sports a retro, diner feel. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

“SAUCY BURGERS AND HOT BUNS,” CONTINUED...

out the sides of a double toasted bun.

“The burger is supposed to be messy,” Miller says. “It’s supposed to look that way — the meat is showing, some of the cheese is showing. That’s literally exactly what the true smash burger is supposed to look like.”

Menu items are named for classic Fords. Even though there’s no relation between the restaurateur and Carroll Shelby of Ford Mustang fame, why not take advantage of a happy coincidence?

The Shelby’s 350 ($9) shows off the single patty with American cheese (smash burgers must be served with American cheese, Shelby says) plus fresh iceberg lettuce, pickles, onions, ketchup and mustard. Upgrade to a double ($14) or triple ($19), or cruise with the Oklahoma ($14), which

that she spread to the rest of her staff.

“There’s been days where we got sick because we’ve been to so many smash burger bars,” Shelby says as Miller laughs.

The owner’s energy is indefatigable and contagious. She shouts happy greetings to her staff across the parking lot, then turns to say that she forgot to add grilled cheese to the menu. In addition to opening her fourth restaurant, she’s building a new house and taking her employees on a skiing trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, all the while staying perfectly put together with gently curled blonde hair and smudgeless mascara.

“And we’re gonna do boozy shakes,” she adds, circling back to the menu at hand.

Even though it’s a burger joint, Shelby’s most iconic menu item might be a milkshake. Her

In lieu of a plaque, which her dad wouldn’t allow, fresh oranges and vinyl citrus trees remind of her

Hungry, Hungry Hoopfest

Just reading these team names might make you want to grab a snack

BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM

This year’s Hoopfest brackets are full of food-inspired teams. If you search “meat” on the Hoopfest team tracker, eight teams come up — including names that do not make me want to play basketball, like Meatloaf All Day and Meat Sweats. Curry has nine results (though some are probably tributes to Steph), while cheese has 10 results, like Swish Cheese, Kareem Cheesers, Cheese

Ballers and Cheese Ballerz. Chicken has a grand total of 13 results, including Chicken Noodle Hoop and Chicken Nuggets, perhaps an unexpected and lucky reference to the new NBA champions. A completely scientific search, not biased at all by my favorite foods, revealed some other delicious team names, like Fruit Hoops, Basket Robbins, Nacho Basketball, Shawarma Sweatin, and Green Eggs and Slam.

A few local ballers responded to my bizarre Facebook message asking them to explain the inspiration behind their sweet and spicy nicknames. Some even shared some of their favorite places to fuel up around town after a sweaty game in the grueling summer heat.

TEAM: AVERAGE TOAST ENJOYERS

BALLER: ERYNN GORES

“My team was scrambling to come up with a name a couple of hours before the registration deadline so we were all just texting whatever came to our minds in our group chat. One of my teammates came up with this name, and we were all so confused by what it meant that it just kind of stuck. We figured who doesn’t like a piece of average toast?”

TEAM: ROOT BEER FLOATERS

BALLER: CODY BRINKMAN

“Dylan is one of our teammates, his parents own an A&W location, and they’re sponsor-

ing our team. So we’re all going to wear A&W gear, and of course they’re famous for their root beer floats so that is where the name comes from!”

TEAM: FISH N CHIPS

BALLER: MAECIE LIERMANN

“Well, we wanted to come up with a funny co-ed team name so at first we had balls n dolls… they shut that down real quick, so then we came up with Fish n Chips. But you can also never go wrong with fish and chips from any restaurant in this area! But locally the best fish and chips (sweet potato) are at Sawmill [Grille & Spirits] in Post Falls — so, so, so good!!”

TEAM: HOT SAUCE

BALLER: JOHNNY MITCHELL

“It was my brother Tim’s nickname growing up — the word ‘hot sauce.’ He passed away from a heart attack on March 9 so I chose the name to honor him.”

TEAM: TOMATO STREET BALLERS

BALLER: STACY CLINESMAN

“It’s the best restaurant in town! And my family owns it.”

Do you ever eat Italian food before you play? “Never. But maybe the night before or after.” n

ERICK DOXEY PHOTO

Tears of Joy

OPENING IN THEATERS

ASTEROID CITY

Wes Anderson’s latest star-studded, visually exacting quirkfest finds a widower dad (Jason Schwartzman) and an actress (Scarlett Johansson) among those quarantined in the small desert town of Asteroid City in 1955 after an alien encounter. Rated PG-13

NO HARD FEELINGS

I’m defending the sandy beach on the eastern coast of Hyrule, preparing to take on a fleet of pirate ships threatening the nearby coastal village. I’ve just spent 15 minutes constructing the perfect flying battleship, complete with wind turbine engines, extra battery power and a row of cannons prepared to open fire on the invaders.

But as I begin to pilot my contraption, the unthinkable happens: My cannons accidentally fire an explosive shot into a nearby post at point-blank range, and the blast destroys my entire ship and knocks me to the ground. I burst into laughter and look at the clock. It’s 2 am on a work night. “How the heck did I even get here?” I wonder.

This is the magic of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, the 20th entry in Nintendo’s fantasy action-adventure series, and 2023’s tentpole video game release for the Nintendo Switch. Tears is also the sequel to 2017’s Breath of the Wild, a title many hailed as the greatest video game of all time upon its release, setting a new standard for open world exploration and sandbox experimentation.

But six years later, Nintendo has outdone itself with Tears, a significant improvement on everything Breath offered back in 2017, once again raising the bar for the legendary Zelda franchise and the video game industry as a whole.

The sequel doubles down on the original’s best qualities — unparalleled player freedom and jaw-dropping organic discovery — while also improving upon its weaknesses by introducing stronger dungeon design, a more compelling narrative, fleshed-out side characters and better enemy variety. But most importantly, Tears sets the players’ imaginations ablaze with a powerful set of tools that turn Hyrule’s enormous world into one giant puzzle with seemingly infinite solutions to explore.

throws the kingdom into chaos. The ensuing quest takes you from the mysterious Sky Islands floating in the clouds to the deepest depths of Hyrule, with detours to every swamp, mountain, ocean and canyon in between.

In this coming-of-age sex comedy, a desperate Uber driver (Jennifer Lawrence) has her car repossessed and decides to answer a Craigslist ad in which an awkward 19-year-old’s parents offer a car to a woman willing to date their son for the summer to get him out of his shell. Rated R

Tears takes place on the same fantastical map as Breath, but Nintendo took care to ensure that both returning fans and newcomers alike could enjoy this adventure regardless of their experience with its predecessor. For returning players, Hyrule has undergone so many changes to make Tears feel like revisiting a place you went on vacation to years earlier (Nintendo doesn’t specify how much time has passed, but certain character relationships hint that it’s been at least five years). And for newcomers, the story and world doesn’t lean heavily on Breath’s lore, making it easy to jump in and experience everything without feeling like you’re missing something.

THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: TEARS OF THE KINGDOM

Available on Nintendo Switch

Tears is Nintendo’s finest achievement in its four-decade history of video game development, and is — for my money — the greatest video game ever made.

Players take control of Link, The Legend of Zelda series’ silent protagonist who’s continually tasked with saving Hyrule and finding Princess Zelda. This time, the familiar tale kicks into motion after a mysterious event called The Upheaval

Moment to moment, players explore Hyrule on foot, horseback or in a machine they build themselves. Along the way, you’ll cross paths with powerful enemies Link won’t be able to defeat at first, but after upgrading your weapons and armor through sidequests and exploration, you’ll slowly be able to handle the world’s bigger threats. Nintendo also takes a swing at restoring classic Zelda dungeons that were missing from Breath, and they mostly succeed in this effort. Tears has four enormous dungeons, themed after respective regions of the map, that each grant Link a unique ability he uses to progress through the dungeon and defeat each lair’s boss. They’re not exactly like the puzzle-box dungeons from classics like Ocarina of Time, but they’re certainly a step in the right direction.

You’ll take on three-headed dragons, skeleton soldiers, giant blobs of jelly and many other foes in your quest to solve series villain Ganondorf’s latest mysterious return. Nintendo mostly plays it safe from a storytelling perspective, but there are still multiple surprising narrative twists throughout that stand toe-to-toe with the best moments in the acclaimed franchise.

The game is positively bursting with content. The amount of explorable space in Tears is well over double the world map in Breath, providing potentially hundreds of hours of meaningful, rewarding expeditions. From seeing what’s changed in the familiar towns and areas to exploring the all-new caves and Sky Islands, the world is wide open to you immediately following the opening hours of the game.

If that sounds overwhelming — I assure you it’s not. Where other open-world video games dump icons on your map and flood you with waypoints and goals, Tears hands players an empty map and a small number of vague objectives, and simply says, “Go.” Instead of following a marker on a minimap for 100 hours until you complete the game like some other open world contemporaries, this edition of Zelda is much more about writing your story and uncovering the world of Hyrule in whatever way you choose.

Fuse lets Link attach any item he wants to his sword, shield or arrow, resulting in hilarious combinations like a Tony Hawk-esque shield/ skateboard hybrid, a comically long spear made by attaching two spears to one another, and literally thousands more possibilities. Recall is a fresh spin on the Zelda franchise’s fascination with time travel, as Link can rewind the path of any object in the world, while Ascend allows the hero to portal jump through ceilings to areas above.

Tears is brimming with puzzles that require players to think outside the box with these four key abilities. But, Nintendo never demands mastery of these skills, because there’s almost always a way to solve every puzzle differently than the solution that’s offered. Nintendo doesn’t care if you solve a puzzle as intended. So long as Link reaches the end of a puzzle chamber, the game still rewards you for completing it. Don’t have a good understanding of some of the physicsbased systems? Just build a super long bridge to walk past your problems. It usually works.

Tears’ physics and gameplay systems are surprisingly rooted in reality. From the buoyancy of objects in water to the way metal items conduct electricity, things usually follow real-world logic to an impressive degree, resulting in one of the

Ithink back on my journey to that beachside battle. I was planning to wrap up the delivery quest I was in the middle of and go to sleep by 11 pm. But the wondrous world of Hyrule always has other plans. You’ll set out to complete one objective, and before you know it, this meticulously designed world is pulling you in a dozen different directions. And again, it’s not by the trite method of notifications, icons and markers. Instead, the game is a masterful example of organic discovery, as you’ll come across your next adventure by talking to townsfolk, setting your own personal goals and just seeing what catches your eye on your way from Point A to your intended Point B… which never actually ends up being Point B.

This freeform game design extends to puzzle solving, and the lineup of brainteasers may be the strongest set of puzzles Nintendo has ever packaged in a Zelda game. This is because of the strong gameplay foundation laid out via Link’s new quartet of abilities: Fuse, Ultrahand, Ascend and Recall. Gifted to the player in Tears’ opening moments, these tools completely change how Link interacts with the world, enemies and objects around him, and finding creative ways to chain these abilities together is where a lot of the fun lies.

Ultrahand grants Link the power to lift and combine basically any objects imaginable, allowing players to build vehicles, mech robots or pretty much whatever else they can imagine.

most fully realized playgrounds ever created.

What’s even more breathtaking is that the game juggles these mechanics and the infinite ways players can take advantage of them without technologically breaking. In an era where it seems very few major video game developers can ship an open world game without a slew of performance issues, Tears is incredibly polished. In over 100 hours, I never encountered a single bug or crash that negatively impacted my experience with the game. The frame rate may dip below its targeted 30 frames per second when things get crazy, but it usually doesn’t harm the overall package. With the groundbreaking gameplay on display, you forgive the small visual issues.

Every quest feels uniquely personal, making Tears one of the best games to talk about with friends or read about on social media, as you’ll see dozens of puzzle solutions and personal journeys completely different from what you did yourself. And the failures are just as fun and memorable as the successes.

Through my 100 hours exploring Hyrule (so far), I’ve been consistently surprised by brand new enemy species, fun costumes for Link to wear and deeper side quests with stronger characterization that make Tears of the Kingdom’s Hyrule feel like a much more lived-in place than Breath of the Wild’s ever did. Even after all that time, I’m still eager to jump back into the skies, surface and depths of Hyrule to see what unexpected journey the game has in store for me next. n

On the Road to Red Rocks

Seattle singer-songwriter Sera Cahoone tours back to Colorado for a dream concert

BY SETH SOMMERFELD

Don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t go home again. For Seattle singer-songwriter Sera Cahoone, her latest tour — which includes a stop at Lucky You on June 25 — is a venture back to her native Colorado for a show she’s been dreaming about since she was a little girl. Her path may have been a long and winding road, but she’s finally ready to take the stage at the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

“I mean, I grew up 10 minutes from Red Rocks. So my whole life, I’ve been going to Red Rocks,” says Caohoone. “And ever since I was a young kid, I just was like, ‘I’m going to play here someday.’”

After moving to Seattle in 1998, Cahoone started her indie music career drumming for beloved local sadcore band Carissa’s Wierd, a group which featured Jenn Champion, Grand Archieve’s Mat Brooke, and Band of Horses’ Ben Bridwell. Following that group’s dissolution, she briefly served as the drummer for Band of Horses before starting her own solo musical career.

There’s a certain purity to Cahoone’s indie folk tunes. Her voice possesses a tenderness that is both welcoming and melancholy, like the warmth in the dying flickers of a campfire. The conviction in her lyricism — whether singing about love or yearning for home — makes a listener believe an insincere syllable has never melodically passed through her lips. After earning raves

for her self-released self-titled debut LP in 2005, Cahoone went on to put out two albums on Sub Pop (Only As the Day Is Long and Deer Creek Canyon), and two more on Lady Muleskinner Records (From Where I Started and, most recently, 2018’s The Flora String Sessions).

For Cahoone, who grew up queer on the outskirts of Denver in Littleton, the musical realm was often a place where she could feel accepted even when the rest of the world wasn’t really seeing her for who she really was. And Red Rocks was one of those safe havens, and also one of the first places she felt comfortable as a lesbian.

“I’ve seen so many people at Red Rocks. I saw PJ Harvey. I saw the Cranberries. For me, Tracy Chapman was a huge show there,” says Cahoone. “I was in high school and gay, but no one knew that. And I had a girl that I was... I don’t know... confusing. But I was just really freaked out. And then I went there, and there were just all these gay people that I’d never seen. I’d never really been around it. I was like the one weird kid from my town. I mean, now there’s more, I’m sure. But it was very, very much like an eye-opening experience for me — like that I’m going to be OK. There’s plenty of people like me. And so having that at Red Rocks as well was this huge.”

Not only was the Chapman concert a seminal moment in her life, the “Fast Car” singer also showed Cahoone a template for being gay in her songwriting without ever having to be overly blunt about it.

“If you listen to her music, it’s not like she’s ‘Hey!’ in your face about it, but it’s obvious in her music. And I’d say the same for me,” says Cahoone. “Not every single song is about me, but a lot of them are about relationships, so it is in all my music. I don’t go into writing a song like, ‘I want to write a gay song.’”

While Cahoone hasn’t put out a new record of her own since 2018, she’s hardly been musically stagnant. She’s occupied her time by playing concerts, producing records for artists like Margo Cilker, drumming for her pals’ bands, and just working a normal day job at a Seattle coffee shop. Though she certainly had a few of those what am I doing? moments along the way.

“For a while there I was like, ‘I’m done. I don’t want to do this anymore. Maybe I’ll start a new band. How many Sera Cahoone records are people really gonna want at a certain point?’” Cahoone says with a laugh. “The grind just felt really daunting to me, because I was so proud of my last record. And thought of making another record that good, it just feels like... ‘How?’ [laughs] But you can’t really look at things like that. This industry is hard on your psyche, you know?

“For me, it’s like, what else would I be doing? I’m a musician. It’s in my blood. Every time I want to be like, ‘I’m gonna do something else,’ then I’m like, ‘Well I love writing songs, and I love playing music more than anything.’ It’s like all I know,” Cahoone adds. “I’m always going to write songs, I just wasn’t sure what to do with them. But I think at this point, I do have a lot of songs, and I do want to put another record out. When do I know that’s gonna happen? I’m not sure.”

While we’ll have to wait for another Sera Cahoone record, the singer-songwriter is primarily focused on this tour leading her back home to open for The Head and the Heart at Red Rocks. She’s put together a five-piece band for this run of gigs, and performing her tunes in the cavernous world-renowned outdoor splendor of Red Rocks offers a perfect spot to show off so many tunes that were influenced by her time growing up surrounded by the Centennial State’s mountainous majesty.

“What I said [when I was a kid] was, ‘If I ever play Red Rocks, I’m gonna retire.’ Which is ridiculous, because I’m not f---ing retiring,” says Cahoone. “But I’ve seen so many shows there, it’s such a beautiful place. And my whole family’s going to come. It’s gonna be very surreal, and I’m probably gonna cry a lot. [laughs]”

Sera Cahoone, Karli Fairbanks • Mon, June 25 at 8 pm • $12-$15 • 21+ • Lucky You Lounge •1801 W Sunset Blvd. • luckyyoulounge.com

REGGAE ARISE ROOTS

Let’s be honest: Reggae works better as a summer genre. Our brains just aren’t programmed to want to hear a ton of chill-out music when there’s actually a chill out. But now that the weather has warmed, it’s an ideal time to catch Los Angeles roots-reggae band Arise Roots. Since 2010, the sextet has been bringing good times grooves to stages across the country while sharing the stage with everyone from The Wailers to Public Enemy. If you’re not feeling that summer vibe inside yet, let Arise Roots try to change that (and a little legal cannabis aid probably wouldn’t hurt either).

— SETH SOMMERFELD

Arise Roots • Fri, June 23 at 8 pm • $15-$20 • 21+ • Lucky You Lounge • 1801 W. Sunset Blvd. • luckyyoulounge.com

Thursday, 6/22

ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS, King Jazz Combo

J BRICK WEST BREWING CO., Kyle Richard and Friends

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Thursday Night Jam

CHECKERBOARD TAPROOM, Weathered Shepherds

COEUR D’ ALENE CIDER CO., Jason Perry

COEUR D’ALENE CASINO, Lee Brice

J D-MAC’S AT THE LAKE, Nate Ostrander

J GRAIN SHED - CEDAR TAP HOUSE, August to August

J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Kate Skinner

J KNITTING FACTORY, The Lone Bellow Trio

J PINE STREET PLAZA, Leslie Sena and Mozi Jones

J QQ SUSHI & KITCHEN, Just Plain Darin

STEAM PLANT RESTAURANT, Son of Brad

J STELLA’S ON THE HILL, Heather King Duo

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Evan Denlinger

ZOLA, Mister Sister

Friday, 6/23

AK ASIAN RESTAURANT, James Motley

THE BEE’S KNEES WHISKEY BAR, Wiebe Jammin’

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Whack A Mole

CHINOOK CRAFTED BY ADAM HEGSTED, Jason Evans

J THE COEUR D’ALENE RESORT, JoJo Dodge

THE DISTRICT BAR, AL1CE, NUDA, Elektro Grave DJs

BLUEGRASS RAILROAD EARTH

If you’re looking for a jam band that brings a bit of everything to the table, Railroad Earth might be the flavor you’re seeking. Since 2001, the band has blended progressive bluegrass, country crooning, folk rock heft, Americana songwriting and even some Celtic vibes into a sonic smoothie all its own. That musical dexterity can be heard across the group’s 2022 album All for the Song, and the group’s marathon live jams even better capture the intersection of traditional playing and improvisational instrumental flair without ever feeling like the guys are going off the rails.

— SETH SOMMERFELD

Railroad Earth • Tue, June 27 at 8 pm • $27$47 • All ages • Bing Crosby Theater • 901 W. Sprague Ave. • bingcrosbytheater.com

J GRAIN SHED - CEDAR TAP HOUSE, Open Mic at The Grain Shed Taproom

J GRAIN SHED - CEDAR TAP HOUSE, Justyn Priest

J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Rachel Bade-McMurphy Trio

THE HIVE, Jeff Crosby Band

J LUCKY YOU LOUNGE, Arise Roots

NIGHTHAWK LOUNGE (CDA CASINO), Heather King Band

ONE TREE CIDER HOUSE, Kori Ailene

J PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Ian Newbill

J REPUBLIC BREWING CO., Rob Leines

THE RIDLER PIANO BAR, Just Plain Darin

SPOKANE VALLEY EAGLES, Stagecoach West

VANTAGE POINT BREWING CO., Son of Brad

Saturday, 6/24

BECK’S HARVEST HOUSE, Just Plain Darin

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Steve Livingston and Triple Shot CHINOOK CRAFTED BY ADAM HEGSTED, Jason Evans

J THE COEUR D’ALENE RESORT, Sean Kavanaugh

DAHMEN BARN, Tone Sober

THE DISTRICT BAR, G-REX, BNGRZ, Radikill

J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Sacha Boutros, Brent Edstrom Quartet

J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Brent Edstrom Trio

KNITTING FACTORY, Henny 3: King YDB, Liddy Mechele, Stone P, Buddha & Block 23

LIVE AT ANDRE’S, Anthony D’Amato, Andrew Duhon, Red Wanting Blue

LUCKY YOU LOUNGE, Alcohol & Feelings

LUCKY YOU LOUNGE, David Larson Group

J ONE SHOT CHARLIE’S, Kosta La Vista

PASTIME TAVERN, The Black Jack Band

J PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Ben Vogel

J PONDEROSA BAR AND GRILL, Wild Wooly Duo

RAZZLE’S BAR & GRILL, Laketown Sound

ROCKET MARKET, Dave Long

J THE BORDER STOP, Deb the Wolf, Out West Duo

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Jimmy Finn

TWISTED SLATE BREWERY, Ducky & Perry

ZOLA, Blake Braley

Sunday, 6/25

ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS, Nu Jack City

BECK’S HARVEST HOUSE, Joey Anderson

J THE COEUR D’ALENE RESORT, Red Books Trio

J HISTORIC DAVENPORT HOTEL, Paul Grove

HOGFISH, Open Mic

J IRON HORSE (VALLEY), Just Plain Darin

J KNITTING FACTORY, The Polish Ambassador, Scott Nice

J ONE SHOT CHARLIE’S, Kevin Gruen

REMEDY KITCHEN & TAVERN, Jason Perry

J SOUTH HILL GRILL, Just Plain Darin

Monday, 6/26

J THE BIG DIPPER, The Sound That Ends Creation, Toxic Vengeance, Cynical Suffering, Nine Denials

J = THE INLANDER RECOMMENDS THIS SHOW

J = ALL AGES SHOW

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

J LUCKY YOU LOUNGE, Sera Cahoone, Karli Fairbanks

RED ROOM LOUNGE, Open Mic Night

J STELLA’S ON THE HILL, Pamela Jean Unlimited

Tuesday, 6/27

J J BING CROSBY THEATER, Railroad Earth

J D-MAC’S AT THE LAKE, Steve Starkey

LITZ’S PUB & EATERY, Shuffle Dawgs

J OSPREY RESTAURANT & BAR, Just Plain Darin

ROCKET MARKET, Mark Ward

SULLIVAN SCOREBOARD, Nate Ostrander Duo

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Dallas Kay

J TWIGS BISTRO, Ron Criscione

ZOLA, The Night Mayors

Wednesday, 6/28

J THE BIG DIPPER, Merlock, Black Locust, A Wandering Path (Documentary Screening)

CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Wednesday Night Jam

J D-MAC’S AT THE LAKE, Chuck Wasileski

THE DRAFT ZONE, The Draft Zone Open Mic

OSPREY RESTAURANT & BAR, Son of Brad

J PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Jason Evans

J PONDEROSA BAR AND GRILL, Gil Rivas

RED ROOM LOUNGE, The Roomates

J TRUE LEGENDS GRILL, Pamela Benton: StringzOnFire

ZOLA, Brittany’s House

Coming Up ...

J J THE FOX THEATER, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Deer Tick, July 6, 7:30 pm.

J LUCKY YOU LOUNGE, Protomartyr, The Smokes, July 8, 8 pm.

J J THE PODIUM, Jimmy Eat World, Manchester Orchestra, Middle Kids, July 14, 7 pm.

J J THE FOX THEATER, Charley Crockett, July 21, 8 pm.

J J PAVILION AT RIVERFRONT, Incubus, Bad Flower, Paris Jackson, July 22, 6 pm.

J J PAVILION AT RIVERFRONT, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Ziggy Marley, Mavis Staples, Robert Randolph & the Family Band, July 26, 6 pm.

J J PANIDA THEATER, Jeff Tweedy, Le Ren, July 26, 7:30 pm.

MUSIC | VENUES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEFTBANK WINE BAR • 108 N. Washington St. •

509-315-8623

LUCKY YOU LOUNGE • 1801 W. Sunset Blvd. • 509-474-0511

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

THE MASON JAR • 101 F St., Cheney • 509-359-8052

MAX AT MIRABEAU • 1100 N. Sullivan Rd., Spokane Valley • 509-922-6252

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

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

MOOTSY’S • 406 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-838-1570

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

THE PODIUM • 511 W. Dean Ave. • 509-279-7000

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

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

STEAM PLANT • 159 S. Lincoln St. • 509-777-3900

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

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

ZOLA • 22 W. Main Ave. • 509-624-2416

•

•

•

MUSIC SUNSET SOUNDS

One of the region’s most scenic historic venues is hosting a ton of outdoor concerts this summer — two a week, from jazz to rock — but coming up next on Arbor Crest’s summer lineup is our own Spokane Symphony. Close your eyes and turn your face toward the setting sun as you sip a glass of wine while picnicking on the lawn, and the orchestra’s classical performance may send you back in time to the Cliff House estate’s founding days in the 1920s. Ticket options include limited, reserved table seating ($55) and open lawn seating ($25, bring your own blanket or low-profile chairs). Add-on food options when you purchase your ticket include sandwiches and charcuterie, while wine, beer and nonalcoholic drinks can be purchased on site once you’ve arrived.

— CHEY SCOTT

Spokane Symphony • Tue, June 27 at 7:30 pm

• $25-$55

COMMUNITY FANTASYLAND

COMMUNITY MERRY ON PERRY

• 21+ • Arbor Crest Wine Cellars

• 4705 N. Fruit Hill Rd. • arborcrest.com • 509-927-9463

For one weekend, fantasy becomes reality. The Spokane Gallery is being transformed into Fairy Festa — an enchanted marketplace where anyone is free to embrace their inner whimsy. The one-day festival welcomes any and all storybook creatures with open arms. Adults can join a challenge quest, indulge in a variety of magical treats, purchase unique treasures from over 40 local vendors and end the day with a traditional fairy dance. Now that school is out, the kids can come out to play. Children have a chance to read with mermaids, get creative with Weezil the Gnome while learning how to make one of his special copper trinkets, or transform into the fairy of their dreams at a magical makeover booth. Come dressed in your best costume to experience a weekend full of alluring excitement.

— SYLVIA DAVIDOW

Fairy Festa • Sat, June 24 from 10 am-7 pm and Sun, June 25 from 10 am-4 pm • Free • All ages • Spokane Gallery • 409 S. Dishman Mica Rd., Spokane Valley • facebook.com/fairyfesta

Though Spokane’s biggest Pride celebration happened earlier this month, the South Perry District is hosting its own Pride celebration this weekend just in case you missed out the first time, or you want to experience that joy all over again! Hosted by Odyssey Youth Movement, Pride in Perry features food specials, music, games, art and more at participating businesses within the district. While you’re celebrating in the area, head to Wishing Tree Books to chat with two featured queer authors (Ash Van Otterloo and H.E. Edgmon), check out the vendor fair and pop into businesses to check out special Pride in Perry deals and activities. Odyssey Youth Movement is also hosting an open house for those interested in volunteering and getting involved in the local LGBTQ+ community. Happy Pride!

— MADISON PEARSON

Pride in Perry • Sat, June 24 from noon-5 pm • Free • All ages • South Perry District • odysseyyouth.org/pride-in-perry

Arbor Crest’s Cliff House

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THEATER HAM IT UP

Theater as an art form has a long history of pressing the boundaries of gender. When Willy Shakes started penning his now-famous works and putting on performances in the 16th and 17th centuries, men were cast to play every character. This play, written by William Missouri Downs and directed locally by Rebecca Craven (pictured), flips the script on those outdated ideals by casting local female actors in every single role. In Women Playing Hamlet, protagonist Jessica is cast as the titular character in Hamlet and is subsequently sent into an existential tailspin. She must figure out how to be (or not to be) her best self while pursuing her dream. As a fitting choice for this mealtime show from brand-new theater nonprofit Lilac City Dinner Theater, Charley’s Catering serves a delicious pork tenderloin meal.

— MADISON PEARSON

Lilac City Dinner Theater: Women Playing Hamlet • Thu, June 22 and Fri, June 23 at 7 pm • $50 • Charley’s Catering & Event Center • 801 N. Monroe St • lilaccitydinnertheater.square.site

PERFORMANCE ROLL PLAY

While playing Dungeons & Dragons is wildly fun for all involved, the next best thing to being at the table yourself is watching professional entertainers navigate the unexpected twists and turns of such fantasy campaigns. If you’re familiar with the fiercely popular, audience-oriented play sessions from the voice actor team behind Critical Role, consider the laughter and saucy shenanigans in store when Seattle-based Dungeons & Drag Queens head over the mountains for a special Lilac City engagement. Under the narrative direction of Dungeon Master Paul Curry, and with live music by Carson Grubb, a trio of fabulously dressed queens may even seek audience input on what to do next during this live mash-up of drag, comedy and nerd culture.

— CHEY SCOTT

I SAW YOU

EVERY OTHER DAY Fathers are often neglected when it comes to recognizing our child-rearing role in the 21st century — a time very different than when even we were children. Society’s expectations are higher than ever regarding the most difficult job a man can have — being a dad. That said, I admire you, father of two children (ages 1 and 3 I’d estimate) in the North Division Fred Meyer on Friday, June 9, around 7 pm. Your kids were in the cart, and you were a delight to see, interacting with them, singing and dancing with them, even kindly telling the elder child to apologize to his sister whom he inadvertently smacked. There was no mom in sight — just you and your children. Happy Father’s Day every day to you and every dad that goes unnoticed.

LOVETAPS DURING TRIVIUM & BEARTOOTH

With eyes sensitive to artificial light, I am pretty easy to remember. Who else wears “sunglass” shades in the mosh pit? I could still discern your short to medium auburn hair and lovely appearance. After you decided to flirt physically, I minced words that you are butt of my new joke. I am saddened that I did not get a chance to converse with you when the music was not playing. I plan to save $51 next Wednesday for a free concert at Kendall Yards; feel free to join me.

VALLEY LIBRARY GRAND OPENING Thank you to the retired Spanish teacher who attended the grand opening of the Spokane Valley Library. I really enjoyed our chat waiting for the speakers and the doors to

open. I managed to remember a couple of your book/author suggestions and have happily added them to my TBR. I hope you have a wonderful summer of reading, and maybe we’ll bump into each other again at the library.

MY DEAR FELLOW SPOKANE DRIVERS I keep wondering about the function of the indicator in a car. I believe many of you call it a blinker. You know, it’s the funny stick or button on the side of your steering wheel. It kinda goes up and down like the windshield wipers with hardly any physical effort at all. I wonder why they call it an indicator in the car manual. I always assumed it is to indicate (Merriam-Webster: to point out or point to) to others where I am planning to turn to (I could swear it was something I had to know to get my driver’s license). That way, you know, others can slow down a bit or keep a bit more distance so I can make a safe turn. Or on the freeway drivers behind me are not surprised when I change lanes. Do you think it appears to be some kind of safety feature? I mean, I usually know where I plan on going, but do you think other drivers or pedestrians can read my mind? That’s actually a creepy thought... So, I wonder if I should continue to use my indicator because I really do care about others and my own safety or not use the indicator (as many of you appear to do these days), as it keeps the other drivers and pedestrians on their toes?? Is there something that I am not aware of that makes the indicator obsolete? Do people really can read minds? But then again, why would it still be featured in a car? Can only some people read minds??? Again, creepy... What are your thoughts? (I can’t read other people’s minds as of yet.) Please advise!

BENNY AND THE JETS & RESCUE RANGERS

I’ve seen you a few times now, Mr. Blue Eyes... I’m totally crushing on you if you feelin me, well, feel free to grab me up and/ or ask me out? You’ll know it’s me by my big smile I get when you walk in. Maybe we can have a tattoo session together sometime?

Chip, Jet, Chance symbol, Arch Angel Wings, or even a Taurus at the tattoo spot?

CHEERS

KILLING IT SPOKANE This city continues to amaze me! After the Lilac Festival, ArtFest and Pride, I am thankful to call Spokane home! The city organizers and volunteers deserve huge recognition for putting on these awesome events. We really live in a great city.

MUCH APPRECIATED Rose. Thanks for introducing yourself the other night. And, for the kind words you had for me. Much appreciated. I hope you have many similar experiences in your career!

JUST A SIGH Not a jeer, not a cheer, perhaps just a sigh. Many years ago I was assaulted. I do not visit that night very often. I don’t live there. Statistics say that I am not alone. One-third of women have also been

you a real life example. I am smarter than you so I was taking advanced placement courses and that would not be equitable so we just get rid of advanced placement courses. Equity does not exist in the natural order of things so you want to force it. As I stated before it is antithetical to the principles this country was founded on. We help those who help themselves. It must be awesome for you to be so self-righteous and suggest that I say screw everyone else. Classic Marxist move.

anywhere near that for maintenance of a puppy from birth until the time you sell it. Give us a break please. We all could use one in this time of overinflated economy.

LOOK AT YOUR VEHICLE REGISTRATION! To all those drivers with only one license plate, you are breaking the law! Washington state RCW 46 16A.200 states all motor vehicles (except motorcycles/mopeds) must display two identical license plates mounted to the

assaulted. I don’t hate, but sharing a locker room or restroom terrifies me. Why the lack of compassion and empathy for women? Why is my fear and discomfort so easily dismissed?

JEERS

GREEDY MUCH? If the WA state sales tax is 8.9 percent, why is a certain big box store on Colton charging 9 percent? I wonder how many billions they are fleecing us for?

UPRIVER DRIVE ILLEGAL DRIVING Jeers to those people who speed down Upriver Drive, passing others on double lines along the way. Jeers also to those who do it elsewhere, but for sake of simplicity, let’s focus on one area as an example. The speed limit on Upriver between Avista and the light at Argonne is 30 or 35 mph, depending on the stretch. This week I was driving the speed limit and proceeded to begin to turn left. Someone behind me proceeded to pass me on double lines. I had to quickly swerve back into the lane and avoid the turn. Both me and a car in front of me were passed by this idiot. It’s just a matter of time until someone is killed by these fools who can’t obey traffic laws. I only hope that if someone is permanently injured or loses their life in this and other accidents, that it will only be the one who was driving illegally and not an innocent driver, biker or pedestrian.

EQUITY Your example isn’t quite right. To create the equal outcome you would have the taller persons legs cut off. Let me give

SOUND OFF 1. Visit Inlander.com/isawyou by 3 pm Monday. 2. Pick a category (I Saw You, You Saw Me, Cheers or Jeers). 3. Provide basic info: your name and email (so we know you’re real). 4. To connect via I Saw You, provide a non-identifying email to be included with your submission — like “petals327@yahoo.com,” not “j.smith@comcast.net.”

BAIT POSTS Jeers to all of you for submitting obvious bait into the Jeers Section. Jeers to the Inlander for publishing them too. Elvis as a cultural appropriator? Demands for Trans bathrooms in schools and Drag Queens in public libraries? Come on! Do better! There’s more important things to complain about!

DEAR GRAD, YOU WANT THE TRUTH? Dear Grad, you want the truth? YOU CAN’T HANDLE THE TRUTH! The truth is that ethics don’t buy beachfront property and computer algorithms can all too easily be programmed to filter data collection to support whatever results the big money wants. It’s an industry. It’s called “doing the science” …. yeah, it’s just like “Bubbles the Stripper does Vegas.”

MAYOR NADINE Did you just come out of a coma? Spokane safety too little too late, like your entire tenure, homelessness, crime, wasted expenses, clean your desk out, welcome Lisa Brown

GREEDY DOG BREEDERS In follow-up to my post a few weeks ago about the greedy dog breeders in Spokane that have to charge an exorbitant price that the average person cannot buy a purebred dog. In Sunday’s classified ad on June 18 I see there were 23 ads for puppies for sale. Out of 23 ads, seven of them did not list a price for their puppies now. Six of them had reasonable new prices for their puppies for sale. The other 10 had prices anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000. Seriously somebody explain to me why you are charging that kind of money for a puppy. It does not cost

vehicle, one on the front and one on the rear (with valid tabs). They must be horizontal and not more than 4 feet from the ground. This is a primary violation and can carry a fine up to $260. Seems like those of you that own more expensive vehicles don’t need to follow the rules, especially Tesla drivers! Shame on you!

SHARE THE ROAD I ride a bike. I wear a helmet. I have bright lights and use hand signals (the ones from the driver’s guide that you were supposed to have read) as a courtesy to those around me. Every taxpayer foots the bill for road maintenance. Car tabs and taxes come nowhere close to covering the cost so I ride legally in the street. I approached a northside intersection heading south as you approached the side street heading west. I arrived long before you did, and I was to the right of you so I exercised my right of way (see driver’s guide), but that didn’t stop you from blaring your horn at me. You then chose to double back for me. You even reversed through an intersection so you could chase, harass and threaten me with your big white SUV. So screw your window. I hope it was expensive, psycho. 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.

“ Equity does not exist in the natural order of things...

BENEFIT

LIFE CENTER CRAFT FAIR This craft fair’s proceeds benefit the Summer Youth Camps. Inquire via email/phone to become a vendor ($25). June 24, 9 am-3 pm. Free. Life Center Church, 1202 N. Government Way. (509-434-9239)

POST FALLS LIONS BREWFEST Celebrate the region’s growing craft beer culture while raising funds for local charities and Post Falls Lions community projects. The event features 10+ breweries. June 24, 2-5 pm. $25. American Legion Post 143, 1138 E. Poleline Ave. facebook.com/PostFallsLionsClub

CDA4PRIDE 2023: PRIDE ON THE RUNWAY! An evening of fashion, drag performances, music, food and festivities to benefit North Idaho Pride Alliance June 29, 6-10 pm. $30-$45. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. nipridealliance.com

COMEDY

STEPH TOLEV Tolev is noted for her 2019 comedy album I’m Not Well, which received a Juno Award nomination. June 22, 7:30 pm, June 23, 7:30 & 10:15 pm and June 24, 7 & 9:45 pm. $18-$32. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com

BLUE DOORS & DRAGONS Improvised comedy celebrating table-top role-playing games. Fridays at 7:30 pm through June 30. $9. Blue Door Theatre, 815 W. Garland. bluedoortheatre.com

SAFARI The Blue Door Theatre’s fastpaced short-form improv show. June 24, 7:30-8:45 pm. $9. Blue Door Theatre, 815 W. Garland Ave. bludoortheatre.com (509-747-7045)

ALONZO BODDEN Alonzo Bodden is known for winning the grand prize in the third season of the reality-TV series Last Comic Standing. June 29, 7:30 pm, June 30, 7:30 & 10:15 pm and July 1, 7 & 9:45 pm. $15-$28. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com (509-318-9998)

THE MATT BAKER COMEDY & STUNT SHOW Baker’s diverse skill set landed him three Guinness World Records and appearances on TV. June 29. 6-8pm. East City Park, 900 E. Third St. ci.moscow.id.us

SPACE QUEERS: A PRIDE SPECTACULAR This comedy show features a dozen stand-up and drag performers. June 29, 8 pm. $15. Lucky You Lounge, 1801 W. Sunset Blvd. luckyyoulounge.com (509-474-0511)

COMMUNITY

25 CENT BOOK SALE Find thousands of hard and paperback books in varying genres. June 23-25, from 10 am-7 pm. Free. Page 42 Bookstore, 2174 N. Hamilton St. page42bookstore.com

COLVILLE 4TH FRIDAYS This monthly program features a community art walk, free concerts, vendors and more.

June 23, 4-8 pm. Free. Colville, Wash. colvilletogether.org

GAMERS’ GUILD Teens aged 12-19 are invited to play video or board games together in the library’s Teen Zone. June 23 and 30, 4-5:30 pm. Free. Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. cdalibrary.org (208-769-2315)

SNAP SUMMER KICK-OFF: RESOURCE

FAIR Browse resources available to the community including energy assistance, tax credit applications, homeless services and more. Also includes free tacos and carnival games. June 23, 10 am-3 pm. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main Ave. scarspokane.org

ACCEPTANCE SPOKANE A peer-supported safe space for LGBTQIA+ youth (ages 16-19) to discuss issues and topics, and promote mental health awareness and acceptance of oneself. Last Saturdays from 3-4 pm. Free. Atomic Threads Boutique, 1905 N. Monroe St. fb.me/e/3cxf4vKyL (509-280-9120)

EL MERCADITO A Latino cultural market featuring fresh food, cleaning supplies, local vendors, a free health clinic, immigration resources and much more. Last Saturday of each month from 11 am-3 pm. Free. A.M. Cannon Park, 1920 W. Maxwell Ave. latinosenspokane.org

FAIRY FESTA This fantasy festival features vendor booths, quests, dancing and more. June 24-25 10 am-4 pm. Free. Spokane Gallery and Framing, 409 S. Dishman Mica Rd. facebook. com/fairyfesta (509-747-0812)

PRIDE IN PERRY A neighborhood event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, hosted by Odyssey Youth Movement. June 24, 12-5 pm. Free. South Perry Business District. odysseyyouth.org

SPOKANE HERBAL FAIRE This annual event features artisan vendors, herbalists, workshops, a kids’ corner and more. June 24-25, 10 am-4 pm. $3. West Central Episcopal Mission, 1832 W. Dean Ave. spokaneherbalfaire.org

SHARING THE DHARMA DAY This day-long event is for all backgrounds to learn practical ways to enrich their lives. Includes a talk, guided medita-

tion, vegetarian potluck and facilitated discussion. Registration required. June 25, 10 am. By donation. Sravasti Abbey, 692 Country Lane Rd. sravastiabbey.org

COFFEE WITH A COMMISSIONER Get to know your Human Rights Commissioners and share your concerns over a cup of coffee in an inviting, open space. June 27, 12-1 pm. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main Ave. spokanelibrary.org

TOUCH-A-TRUCK! Sit in the recycling truck, talk to drivers and learn how these vehicles do their jobs in our community. For kids of all ages, 8 and under with an adult. June 27, 11 am-1 pm. Free. Indian Trail Library, 4909 W. Barnes Rd. spokanelibrary.org (509-444-5300)

TWEEN LIBRARY CARNIVAL Tweens are invited to test their skills at classic and unique carnival games and earn prize tickets. Ages 8-12. June 28, 2-3 pm. Free. Medical Lake Library, 3212 Herb St. scld.org (509-893-8330)

FILM

DOCUMENTARY & PANEL: AMERICAN HOSPITALS

An exclusive screening of the new documentary followed by a panel discussion with local healthcare experts. June 22, 6:30-9 pm. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main Ave. spokanelibrary.org (509-444-5300)

FREE KIDS MOVIES: DESPICABLE ME

An animated comedy about a supervillain and his yellow Minions. June 19-23, daily at 9:30 am. Free. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater. com (509-327-1050)

PANIDA PRIDE: THE BIRDCAGE In this remake of the classic French farce La Cage aux Folles, an engaged couple introduce their future in-laws. June 23, 7 pm. $5.50. Panida Theater, 300 N. First Ave. panida.org (208-263-9191)

CARTOONS AT THE FARMERS MARKET

A selection of kid-friendly animated shorts. Saturdays, 9 am-noon. Free. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main. kenworthy.org

SPACEPOINT SCI-FEST This event features a presentation from U of Idaho’s Dr. Matthew Hedman about NASA’s Europa Clipper and Jupiter and a screening of Guardians of the Galaxy. June 24, 6 pm. $10-$15. Panida Theater, 300 N. First Ave. panida.org (208-263-9191)

TEEN MAKE-IT + A MOVIE MATINEE

Make a scratch art bookmark while watching Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. Ages 12-19. June 24, 1-3:15 pm. Free. CdA Library , 702 E. Front Ave. cdalibrary.org

EVENTS | CALENDAR

FREE KIDS MOVIES: HOW TO TRAIN

YOUR DRAGON Hiccup befriends an injured dragon named Toothless. June 2630, daily at 9:30 am. Free. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland. garlandtheater.com

WATERSHIP DOWN/THE PLAGUE

DOGS Moscow Film Society presents a double feature of animated films adapted from Richard Adams novels. June 27, 7-10:30 pm. $7. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org (208-882-4127)

OUTDOOR MOVIE: EAT PRAY LOVE & YOGA: Watch the movie Eat, Pray, Love after a yoga session with Barre Code Spokane. June 28, 6:30-10:30 pm. Free. Commellini Estate, 14715 N. Dartford Dr. commellini.com (509-466-0667)

FULL DRAW FILM TOUR A showing of original films focused on bowhunting made by independent filmmakers. June 28, 7 pm. $10-$20. Panida Theater, 300 N. First Ave. panida.org

FOOD

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL The yearly festival includes u-pick strawberries, craft and food vendors and live music. Daily from 12-6pm through July 15. Siemers Farm, 11125 E. Day-Mt. Spokane Rd. siemersfarm.com (509-238-6242)

SALAD LAB Learn how to create new and exciting salads for every season by mixing tastes and textures. June 23, 12-1:30 pm. $55. The Kitchen Engine, 621 W. Mallon Ave. thekitchenengine.com

SUMMER KICKOFF PARTY This family- and pet-friendly event features live music, games, giveaways and on-site samplings. June 24, 1-4 pm. Free. The Burger Dock (CDA), 200 N. Fourth St. fb.me/e/3F0wOwCor (208-292-4147)

WINE TASTING Taste various regional wines. Buy two bottles and receive your tasting for free. Sundays from 2-4 pm through Sep. 3. $10. The Culinary Stone, 2129 N. Main St., CdA. culinarystone.com

RIVERFRONT EATS A food truck series on the orange Howard St. Bridge featuring live music. Tuesdays from 11 am-2 pm through Aug. 22. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. riverfrontspokane.com

TEEN CUPCAKE DECORATING Learn basic techniques and discuss supplies, terms and piping tips you can use to create beautifully decorated cupcakes. Ages 13-18. Registration required. June 27, 2-3 pm at Fairfield Library, 305 E. Main St. Also June 28, 2-3 pm at Deer Park Library, 208 Forest St. scld.org

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAYS Beverly’s sommelier Justine Recor offers compli-

mentary wine tastings and knowledge and about each wines’ origins. Wednesdays from 4-9 pm. Free. Beverly’s, 115 S. Second St. beverlyscda.org

MUSIC

ANDRE FERIANTE: STRING STORIES

Feriante performs classical guitar pieces by Bach, Leonard Cohen and more. June 23, 7 pm. $25. The Jacklin Arts & Cultural Center, 405 N. William St. thejacklincenter.org (208-457-8950)

FRIDAYS AT THE CLOCK These familyfriendly concerts feature live music from WSU music students, activities for children and more. June 23, July 14, Aug. 4, Aug. 25 and Sep. 8, 6:30-8 pm. Free. Bryan Hall Theatre (WSU), 605 Veterans Way. events.wsu.edu (509-335-7696)

ERIC HERMAN & THE PUPPY DOGS An interactive comedy concert featuring original songs. Ages 5+ and their families. June 26, 11 am-noon at Waterfront Park, 1386 S. Lefevre St., Medical Lake. Additional dates and locations at scld.org

MUSIC ON MONDAYS: OLD PLANK

ROAD Old Plank Road plays improvisational versions of American old-timey music. June 26, 6-7:30 pm. Free. Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. cdalibrary.org (208-769-2315)

SPIRIT OF SPOKANE CHORUS Sit in on the rehearsals of the Spirit of Spokane chorus. Tuesdays from 6:30-9 pm. Free. Opportunity Presbyterian Church, 202 N. Pines Rd. spiritofspokanechorus.org

SPOKANE SYMPHONY AT ARBOR

CREST Enjoy an evening of classical music at the scenic Cliff House Estate grounds of Arbor Crest. June 27, 7:30 pm.

$25-$55. Arbor Crest Wine Cellars, 4705 N. Fruit Hill Rd. foxtheaterspokane.org

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

SPOKANE INDIANS VS. TRI-CITY DUST DEVILS Promos during the six-game series include Fireworks Night (June 23) and Storybook Princess Night (June 24). June 22, 6:35 pm, June 23, 7:05 pm, June 24, 5:09 pm and June 25, 1:05 pm. $8$22. Avista Stadium, 602 N. Havana St. spokaneindians.com (535-2922)

BASIC YOGA CLASS Strengthen, stretch and release muscle tension while doing beginner toga with instructor Robin Marks. Fridays from 9-10 am through July

7. $67. John A. Finch Arboretum, 3404 W. Woodland Blvd. spokanerec.org

SILVER KINGS HARD ENDURO A motorcycle race through the mountains above Kellog, Idaho. Free to spectate. June 2324. Silver Mountain Resort, 610 Bunker Ave. silverkingshardenduro.com

HOOPFEST 2023 The largest three-onthree basketball tournament in the world played annually in downtown Spokane. June 24-25. Free to spectators. Downtown Spokane. spokanehoopfest.net

PAW-LOUSE 5K FUN RUN & WALK This 5k’s course runs through the University of Idaho’s campus and helps fund the Humane Society of the Palouse. June 24, 9-11 am. $20. Moscow Intermodal Transit Center, 1006 Railroad St. humanesocietyofthepalouse.org (208-883-1166)

RACE THE WOLF Choose between a fivemile, half-marathon or marathon-length race around Schwietzer. June 24-25. $45-$110. Schweitzer, 10,000 Schweitzer Mountain Rd. racethewolf.com

ROSE MASTERY SERIES: ROSE USES & PREP FOR FALL This class focuses on the many different uses of roses and their blossoms, as well as what to do in the fall to prep for winter. June 24, 2-3 pm. $10. Ritters Garden & Gift, 10120 N. Division St. 4ritter.com (509-467-5258)

WSU SPOKANE COUNTY MASTER

GARDENER PLANT CLINIC Ask experts about plant issues and get advice about selection, maintenance, environmentally friendly practices, pest management, effective landscaping and more. Saturdays from 11 am-3 pm through Sep. 30. Free. Shadle Library, 2111 W. Wellesley Ave. spokanelibrary.org

YOGA & WINE A 45-minute beginner yoga class followed by a glass of wine. Ages 21+. June 24, 11:15 am-1 pm. $20. Liberty Lake Wine Cellars, 1018 S. Garry Rd. yogauncorkedchelan.com

IRONMAN COEUR D’ALENE Watch and cheer on athletes as they compete to cross the historic Ironman Triathlon finish line. June 25. $845. Downtown Coeur d’Alene. ironman.com/im-coeur-dalene

MOORE-TURNER HERITAGE GARDENS

TOURS Step back in time and experience this garden as it looked in 1915. Learn about its discovery and restoration, heritage plants, and more. June 25, July 2 and July 9, 11 am. Free. Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens, 507 W. Seventh Ave. heritage-gardens.org

YOGA FOR YOU! This adult yoga class is a blend of stretching, strengthening and balance work. Mondays from 9:30-10:30 am through July 31. Free. Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. cdalibrary.org (208-769-2315)

WEDNESDAYS IN THE WOODS: MOOSE, COUGARS, AND BEARS, OH MY! Representatives from WDFW discuss how to deal with animal encounters. June 28, 6:30-8 pm. Free. Riverside State Park Bowl & Pitcher, 4427 N. Aubrey L. White Pkwy. riversidestateparkfoundation.org

THEATER

GREASE After a whirlwind summer romance, leather-clad greaser Danny and girl-next-door Sandy are reunited. WedSat at 7:30 pm, Sun at 2 pm through July

2. $25-$40. University High School, 12320 E. 32nd Ave. svsummertheatre.com

HUMAN ERROR When ideologies collide, can a baby save the day? Thu-Sat at 7 pm, Sun at 2 pm through June 25. $20$25. Stage Left Theater, 108 W. Third Ave. stagelefttheater.org

LILAC CITY DINNER THEATER: WOMEN

PLAYING HAMLET Hamlet’s a challenge for any actor, but when Jessica is cast as the titular character in a New York production, it sends her into an existential tailspin. Ticket includes admission to the performance and a catered meal by Charley’s. June 22, 6:30 pm and June 23, 6:30 pm. $50. Charley’s Catering and Event Center, 801 N. Monroe St. lilaccitydinnertheater.square.site (509-389-6875)

MURDER IN OZ Identify who orchestrated the death of the East Witch at this murder mystery party. June 24, 6-9 pm. $39. Crime Scene Entertainment, 2775 N. Howard. crimesceneentertainment.com

ALADDIN The timeless story is filled with beauty, magic and spectacle. June 27-July 2; Tue-Fri at 7:30 pm, Sat at 2 and 7:30 pm, Sun at 1 and 6:30 pm. $35$95.50. First Interstate Center for the Arts, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. broadwayspokane.com/events/detail/aladdin

VISUAL ARTS

BACKWATER An exhibition of material and sound by Palouse artists Sara St Clair, Abigail Hansel, Sister June and Rachel Svinth. Through June 30, by appt. Free. Kolva-Sullivan Gallery, 115 S. Adams St. kolva-sullivangallery.com

DANIEL LOPEZ: WORLD WAR ME Fine art paintings by local muralist and artist Daniel Lopez, aka Godffiti. Through July 3, open daily 10 am-6 pm. Free. Entropy, 101 N. Stevens St. explodingstars.com

SACRED SPIRITS A collection from the Secrist collection curated by Dr. Secrist, Annie Cunningham and Joshua Hobson. Mon-Fri, 7:30 am-10 pm through June 30. Free. Eastern Washington University (JFK

Library), 526 Fifth. ewu.edu/art

THE WYETHS: THREE GENERATIONS A collection of works by N.C. Wyeth, one of America’s finest illustrators; his son Andrew, an important realist painter; Andrew’s son Jamie, a popular portraitist; and extended family members. Tue-Sun from 10 am-5 pm through Aug. 20. $7$12. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org

THRICE TOLD CULINARY TALES Louise Kodis, Wendy Zupan and Cheyn Kodis present handmade picture books about food, fairy tale menus, collages and paintings of desserts. Fri-Sat from 12-8 pm through June 24. Free. Saranac Art Projects, 25 W. Main Ave. sapgallery.com

JUST FOR FUN CENTENNIAL ART FAIR

Celebrate the centennial of the original Kirkland Cutter building with an art fair. June 24, 10 am-5 pm. Free. Manito United Methodist Church, 3220 S. Grand Blvd. manitoumc.org (509-951-4429)

SKETCHBOOK WORKSHOP

In this workshop Amalia Fisch teaches how to start and maintain a sketchbook practice. June 24, 1-4 pm. Free. The Hive, 2904 E. Sprague Ave. spokanelibrary.org

PATRICIA ROBINSON: WILD FLOWERS

Robinson’s paintings showcase a connection with Spokane and the natural world. June 25-July 29, daily from 11 am-7 pm. Free. Liberty Building, 203 N. Washington. spokanelibertybuilding.com

ART, ANIMALS & GARDEN Students explore a variety of art techniques and media in the presence of the rescued animals who call River’s Wish home. Ages 8-14. June 26-30, daily from 9 am-12 pm. $195. Spokane Art School, 503 E. Second Ave. spokaneartschool.net

WORDS

PRIDE IN PERRY: ASH VAN OTTERLOO & H.E. EDGMON Van Otterloo hosts a workshop (1-3 pm) for young writers. Edgmon reads (4-5 pm) and answers questions about queer speculative fiction. June 24. Free. Wishing Tree Books, 1410 E. 11th. wishingtreebookstore.com

SPOKANE CIVICS SALON: WHY NOT SOCIALISM? A monthly salon centered around the rights and responsibilities of citizenship in the U.S. This month, discuss G.A. Cohen’s Why Not Socialism? June 25, 2-3:30 pm. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main Ave. spokanelibrary.org

BROKEN MIC Spokane Poetry Slam’s weekly open mic. Wed at 6:30 pm. Free. Neato Burrito, 827 W. First. bit. ly/2ZAbugD (509-847-1234) n

PAIN RELIEF

Relax and Recover

Turn to cannabis to ease your aches and pains this summer

BY WILL MAUPIN

Whether you signed up to take a beating on the basketball court at Hoopfest or you’re heading to the mountains for a backpacking trip, summer is a season for active fun. It’s also a season for feeling that fun turn into discomfort in your muscles and joints the next morning.

If you’re looking to throw out the old standbys of ibuprofen and naproxen, consider these cannabis-based methods of pain relief.

ROLL-ON

The FLOW Stick by Fairwinds Manufacturing is a roll-on topical that takes a similar approach to aches and pains as products like Icy Hot. Users simply apply the balm like a deodorant stick wherever they’re feeling sore. Fairwinds Manufacturing produces a warming and a cooling version of the product.

The mentholated cooling version was recommended by a budtender at Cinder — which sells the stick for $30 — for its popularity but also because of the balance of cannabinoids contained within the product. Many pain relief topicals are CBD-dominant, but FLOW Sticks contain a one-to-one ratio of CBD and THC, which allows for deeper pain relief than CBD alone. And don’t worry, topically applied THC doesn’t result in a high.

LINIMENT

Cedar Creek Cannabis’ Liniment packs a pain relief punch with 1,500 milligrams of cannabinoids, split evenly three ways between THC, THCA and CBD. THCA is especially helpful for pain relief as it has strong anti-inflammatory effects, but it loses some of that impact when smoked or vaped as heat converts it into THC.

The 4-ounce product goes for $36 at Mary Jane’s where it was compared to a stronger version of Bengay. Because it comes in a liquid, lotion-like form, as opposed to the roll-on stick, users have a bit more control over just how much they want to apply.

BATH BOMB

Spokane Valley’s Sixfifths, one of the many brands under the umbrella of the massive Grow Op Farms, has a raspberry vanilla bath bomb that will help soothe away your aches and pains.

It was recommended by Piece of Mind on the South Hill, where it sells for $10, for its one-to-one ratio of THC and CBD at 25 milligrams each.

The bath bomb is lower than the others listed here in terms of potency, but its therapeutic value is enhanced by the setting in which it will be used. After a long day of strenuous activity, a warm bath with salty, cannabinoidladen water is sure to induce a feeling of relaxation across the entire body — it won’t get you high, but the entirebody impact could be overwhelming for newcomers. n

Marijuana use increases the risk of lower grades and dropping out of school.

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.

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.

Kid”

37. Reason why one might eat

18-, 20-, 53- or 57-Across, appropriately?

39. “Law & Order” spinoff, for short

41. Shades of embarrassment

42. SALT weapon

44. ____ Lopez opening (classic chess tactic)

45. George Eliot’s “____ Marner”

49. New Orleans blues musician who wrote the 1973 hit “Right Place, Wrong Time”

52. Mena of “American Beauty”

53. Candy brand introduced in 1978

57. Candy brand introduced in 1976

60. Degreaser’s target

61. 1990s House majority leader Dick

62. Farewell in Firenze

63. Poker payment

64. Raskolnikov’s lover in “Crime and Punishment”

65. In stitches?

66. It’s rigged!

DOWN

1. Vino choice

2. What an investor hopes for

3. Go off on

4. Discredited, as a theory

5. Emmy winner Woodard

6. Onetime Swedish auto import

7. Liu of “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”

8. Moderate pace

9. Casey in the National Radio Hall of Fame

10. Oscar and Edgar, e.g.

11. Certain lap dog, informally

12. Major leaguer

13. Your browser might block them

19. Hagen in the American Theater Hall of Fame

21. Kagan and Ferrante

24. “Don’t worry about me”

25. “____ Wiedersehen!”

26. Airport near JFK

28. Westernmost capital in mainland Africa

29. Japanese port near Sapporo

30. How dogs kiss

33. Secretly add to an email thread

34. Broke a fast

35. 2009 World Series MVP Hideki

37. Hist. or Eng.

38. TV spinoff that saw the return of Gil Grissom and Catherine Willows

39. Punk rock’s Vicious

40. Device owned by many a Blockbuster patron

43. Safer of “60 Minutes”

46. Blank portion of a manuscript

47. “Isn’t

SATURDAYS IN JUNE | 1 PM – 9 PM

Howdy partner, Lucky You is back! Giddy up and head on over to Coeur d’Alene Casino to lasso up some loot every Saturday in June. You could be one of ten lucky winners to receive $2,500 just for playing with your Coeur Rewards card! Winners are electronically and randomly selected amongst the Coeur Rewards members actively playing any video gaming machine with their Coeur Rewards card inserted between 1 pm and 9 pm on Saturdays in June.

Cowboy Up Bingo Drawing

Mondays in June