the ’Hood
Get to know each of Spokane’s 29 neighborhoods
Page 24
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EDITOR’S NOTE
I’ve lived in a handful of SPOKANE’S 29 NEIGHBORHOODS over the years: North Indian Trail, Five Mile Prairie, and now, North Hill. (Yep, I’m a North Spokane gal, through and through.) Each has plenty of perks, from easy access to shopping amenities to public parks and beloved urban landmarks.
While it’s the realm of my current address, I think North Hill is my favorite neighborhood of the three for many reasons. It’s less than 4 miles from downtown (where I work, obviously, at the Inlander’s Kendall Yards HQ), and the Five Mile Shopping Center — home to the busiest Rosauers in town — is right there when we run out of milk, bread, beer or coffee. North Hill’s gem, the Garland District, is less than two minutes away. Dellie, our cat who hates car rides, is also grateful that the Garland Animal Clinic is super close, even if she wishes she never had to go there. And on our own little block of North Hill, I can’t complain. Our neighbors are kind and quiet, and we’ve never had any safety concerns in our many years there.
So, what do you love about your neighborhood?
— CHEY SCOTT, Editor
OCTOBER 6
SPOKANE ARENA
OCTOBER 12
OCTOBER 8
SPOKANE ARENA
OCTOBER 10 first interstate center
OCTOBER 13
OCTOBER 16
OCTOBER 18-20
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WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
GRAHAM SILCHER
South Perry
I love the accessibility of everything. It’s a great neighborhood to walk around in. You can access all of the shops and the park so easily. Everything you need is kind of right here unless you need a specific shop outside of the neighborhood.
AMBER MARTEL
North Hill
I just recently moved to my neighborhood! I love the closeness to the Garland District. I can walk to so many cool things.
TIFFANY ADAMS
Cliff/Cannon
It’s authentic and people truly enjoy doing life together. Whether that’s happy hour in someone’s front yard, helping neighbors, sharing the load, doing yard work, walking dogs or getting a cup of sugar from one another. It’s the best neighborhood because we sincerely believe in loving your neighbor.
CHRISTAL CLEARY
Logan
I like the response time of the fire trucks, and I enjoy the presence of the Gonzaga students out and about in the neighborhood. I think them being around helps keep the crime away.
MILLIE BRANHAM
Manito
I love how friendly everyone is. Everyone is so fun to be around, and everyone knows each other. It’s a great place to live.
INTERVIEWS BY MADISON PEARSON 09/26/2024, PERRY STREET THURSDAY MARKET
Seal of Approval
Meet Bill: the crazy, COVID-era impulse purchase who became the glue that still keeps the family sane
BY TARA ROBERTS
Bill the Seal is part harbor seal, part leopard seal — and part ghost. He is listed among the world’s chonkiest seals and is a champion in the sport of chonky-seal nose-boxing. He subsists on pumpkin spice lattes and sausages. On occasion, his body is taken over by a malevolent alien, which must be sprayed with an aliendetecting substance and subsequently banished. One of the ways you can tell Bill’s been possessed by an alien is if he suddenly prefers apple crisp lattes to pumpkin spice.
Bill the Seal arrived in August 2020 for my son Danny’s ninth birthday. Danny had fallen in love with a stuffed seal he’d spotted on my Instagram ads, and I found one available to order as “Chubby Blob Seal Pillow Stuffed Cotton Plush Animal Toy Cute Ocean Pillow (Gray, Small).”
You remember what August 2020 was like — that awful time when everyone knew COVID was going to ooze into the fall and probably longer, but no one really knew exactly what it would be like. Also, no one really knew what to do about it, other than that all of the options were bad.
Danny and his older brother, Henry, were partway through the most exhausting and confus-
Bill the Seal loves pumpkin spice lattes. (Obviously.)
ing year of their small lives. But they found a source of joy in Bill: shaping his personality, building up his backstory, riffing on each other’s ideas like chaotic improv comics.
Bill loves it when anyone mentions seals, even when they’re not talking about aquatic mammals, and will squeal “SEAL!” in response. But if you say the word “dill,” Bill dies. Luckily, he is quickly and easily resurrected if someone yells, “Revive!”
Every family has objects of childhood creativity that pass through and leave their mark. But rather than graduating to a beloved memory as we left the intense COVID years behind and my kids became teenagers, Bill has somehow become more present in our family’s life.
“…we’re
puns.”
The kids keep adding to Bill Lore, which only gets stranger as they get older. Bill is the core of half our inside jokes, like we’re sleeper agents activated by seal-related puns.
Once, during a baptism, our pastor announced that the baby had been “sealed forever with the cross of Christ.” My family looked at each other, eyes bugged out, holding our breath to keep from disrupting the ritual by shouting, “SEALED!”
Bill has a friend named Justin, who whines a lot about everyone liking Bill better. He has another friend, Banjo, who is constantly being forgotten about (at least by Mom). He has an associate named Wonderfbill, who doesn’t like it when you think about him and appears to yell at you when you do. Stop thinking about Wonderfbill!
When I’m away from home, I snap pictures of references to seals and text them to the kids: a “Give Seals Space” sign on an Atlantic beach, a jar with the phrase “Sealed for your protection.”
When I’m alone in the house, I sometimes find Bill and place him in the front window, where he likes to watch for everyone to come home.
Danny and Henry say that someday, when they are very old, the nurses who care for them will think Bill was a person — an exceedingly eccentric, impossible person, but someone they knew, and knew well. Someone they loved.
Bill arrived in a moment of stress and uncertainty. As much as I’d like to say the world is simpler now, it’s not. My kids, no longer little boys, are more aware than ever of the precarity and complexity of life, as are many kids of their generation.
I think that’s why we cling to Bill, weaving him deeper and deeper into our family’s story. We need his absurdity to show us that the world always has room for silliness, even in difficult times — which are all times, if we’re honest about it. He reminds us how valuable creativity is in those times, too. As our lives keep changing, as the kids grow up and the world keeps surprising us, Bill connects us.
Or, you might just say, he seals us. n
Connecting Rural Idaho
Federal and state grant funding helps connect underserved communities in rural Idaho
BY VICTOR CORRAL MARTINEZ
When the COVID-19 pandemic caused lockdowns in 2020, many in Idaho and Eastern Washington began working remotely, schooling from home and increasing their use of telehealth appointments. While the demand for high-speed internet continues to increase, many rural areas lack reliable or affordable internet service.
Grants for broadband internet expansion through programs such as the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Connect America Fund, CARES Act funding, and Idaho’s state capital projects fund have enabled internet providers to expand coverage for some underserved communities, and more federal funding could be on the way.
The Digital Access for All Idahoans Plan, prepared by the Idaho Commission for Libraries and released this year, states that 17.9% of rural respondents to a digital access survey reported they need home internet. The statewide survey of 1,000 Idaho adults was conducted in May 2023. Limited broadband access and the cost of service are critical factors for many rural residents who go without internet access.
Among low-income households in Idaho, 33.9% report accessing the internet with their computers in public locations. A household is considered low-income if it earns at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. According to the Digital Equity Act of 2021, 20.7% of households in Idaho qualify as low-income.
The U.S. Census estimates the state has 100,000 underserved households in need of high-speed broadband internet. Underserved is defined as a household that lacks access to 100 Mbps internet.
In addition, the Census estimates that, on average, about 6% of Idaho K-12 students were homeschooled during 2022 and 2023.
Some companies are already working to meet the
need. Internet service provider Intermax has expanded coverage in rural North Idaho with grants from the Idaho Broadband Advisory Board, Idaho’s Office of Broadband, and federal funding.
“We expanded into fiber optic a number of years ago, but when the pandemic hit, and the federal government put money toward expanding rural broadband, we participated in several rounds of that funding to be able to continue doing what we’re doing,” says Mike Kennedy, Intermax’s president and CEO.
CONNECTING NORTH IDAHO
As a provider of fiber optic cabling for homes and businesses in rural areas, Kennedy points out that connecting more people to the service is expensive. He says a low population density and expensive infrastructure make it difficult to see a return on their investment.
The recent influx of grants has helped companies like Intermax provide fiber and fixed broadband services to more rural areas. There are 67 internet service providers in Idaho, and of those, 18 providers have been awarded grants for broadband expansion through the Broadband Advisory Board.
Intermax has secured $60 million in funding for new rural connections over the past five years. Although receiving funding through grant programs from the Idaho Advisory Board is competitive, Intermax has continued to receive grants and is expected to build aggressively. Two of the company’s focus areas include Kootenai County and Bonner County.
“We won three of those [grant] awards last year in 2023, and those are the areas we’re building most aggressively right now, because we have to finish them by 2026,” Kennedy says.
Intermax’s recent expansion in Kootenai County has helped bring services to people just outside a provider’s coverage area. Over the next 18 months, Intermax expects to deliver fiber optic infrastructure to 10,000 new residential addresses. The company currently serves 6,000 broadband customers, with several hundred customers connected via the latest fiber optic infrastructure, which will continue to grow.
The company’s 2021 applications to build fiber optic infrastructure in Kootenai County state that some telecommunications infrastructure in the area still uses copper lines that can be as old as 45 years.
The Idaho Office of Broadband, working under the Idaho Department of Commerce and with the Idaho Broadband Advisory Board, ensures that the grants provide services where they are most needed. Intermax’s work is aligned with the goals of the state agencies, Kennedy says.
“Frankly, I think we’ve won more [grants] than most companies because we pay close attention to the rules, we know what we’re doing, and we work hard to make sure that we’re getting the most unserved people involved.”
IDAHO BROADBAND OFFICE
Acknowledging the need for state guidance over broadband expansion, Idaho lawmakers passed House Bill 127 in 2021 to create the Idaho Broadband Advisory Board. The ninemember board consists of three members from the Idaho House of Representatives, three from the Idaho Senate and three appointed by the governor.
The board is responsible for the Idaho Broadband Strategic Plan and prioritizing how grant funds are dispersed. Working closely with the Idaho Office of Broadband, the advisory board focuses on helping communities receive broadband internet access in support of improving distance learning, remote work and telehealth.
Ramón Hobdey-Sánchez is the director of the Idaho Office of Broadband. He says his office partners with the advisory board to achieve their mutual goals.
Topography, including mountains, rivers and hills, has hampered broadband internet installation around Idaho.
Despite these challenges, Hobdey-Sánchez says the broadband advisory board has awarded 18 projects to 15 companies that have connected 35,000 homes and businesses to date.
For Hobdey-Sánchez, reliable broadband internet access is important because of the economic development it
Intermax is one of the companies working to connect people to broadband internet in North Idaho.
PHOTO COURTESY OF INTERMAX
NEWS | TECHNOLOGY
“CONNECTING RURAL IDAHO,”
creates. Helping small and independent businesses is one aspect, but attracting large-scale businesses helps the state as a whole reap the benefits.
Creating economic opportunities and access to the internet helps retain a workforce that is needed in Idaho, Hobdey-Sánchez says.
“There’s also direct impacts as it relates to telework and telehealth opportunities,” he says. “And one thing you’ll often hear Gov. [Brad] Little talk about is the importance of educating our children and creating environments where our children and the generations after us want to stay here in Idaho.”
INTERNET AS A UTILITY
Ashley Jones, a Rathdrum resident who works remotely, says she needs reliable and affordable broadband internet. She initially lived in Post Falls and had Spectrum internet, but when she moved to Rathdrum in July, she quickly learned that Spectrum didn’t provide broadband service to her area.
“I had to call probably two or three different internet providers, and they didn’t have service in our area, and so I had to ask around to our local neighbors to figure out who they used, and they all use Intermax,” Jones says.
When she called, Intermax’s fiber optic project in the area wasn’t completed yet, and the company gave her an estimated completion date of six weeks. So, in the meantime, Jones said she used Starlink, a satellite internet provider and a subsidiary of SpaceX.
Jones says that the Starlink kit she purchased was expensive and that the internet service cost twice as much as Intermax. Then, there was the fact that she lived up a hill with plenty of trees, which made wireless internet difficult.
When the Intermax fiber optic expansion was completed on time, Jones quickly returned her $600 Starlink kit and switched to Intermax.
“I expected it to take longer, and it didn’t, so we had to wait a little, but it was definitely worth the wait,” Jones says.
Broadband internet access is critical, Jones says, because more people use the internet for schooling, doctor appointments and streaming services now. She sees the internet as more of a utility service.
“I know so many people like my grandparents, who are in their 80s, they don’t even use cable anymore,” Jones says. “They do streaming, Netflix, Hulu. So it’s definitely not even just these younger people.”
Grant funds helped to update and expand the infrastructure that enabled Jones to have reliable fiber optic internet. She says she is thankful for the funding but understands that there are many rural and remote areas in North Idaho that still need access.
Broadband internet access will continue to receive funding in Idaho, with new programs such as the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s recent announcement of its Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program (BEAD). The program, under the U.S. Department of Commerce, will allot up to $583 million in grant funding for Idaho.
The program is part of the Biden-Harris administration’s “Internet for All” initiative that aims to expand internet access to unserved locations that have no internet access or download speeds under 25 Mbps and underserved locations that have download speeds under 100 Mbps.
The program has multiple stages for states to submit their applications and see their allotted amount. Then, a
challenge process requires time to allow internet service providers, local government agencies and nonprofit organizations to challenge whether an area is designated as unserved or underserved.
Idaho’s plans for distributing and deploying funding, initiatives and workforce mobilization were approved on Sept. 5.
“So that officially puts us on the 365-day shot clock to get the program implemented, to get everything packaged and resubmitted to the feds in our final proposal,” HobdeySánchez says.
Idaho’s U.S. Sen. Jim Risch has voted for bipartisan legislation such as the CARES Act, which helped fund broadband expansion. He says he sees the need for broadband access in Idaho but feels the red tape associated with federal funding is slowing the process too much.
“Access to reliable broadband is essential for Idaho communities to thrive and businesses to become industry leaders. Expanding broadband connectivity in rural, underserved areas across the Gem State will fuel generations of economic prosperity, job creation, and innovation,” Risch says. “However, the Biden-Harris administration’s bureaucratic red tape and permitting requirements are hindering the progress and timely delivery of these services to Idahoans.”
Looking to the future, Hobdey-Sánchez says he believes the BEAD program will be historic and impactful.
“This type of investment, financially, is the type of investment that will have lasting impacts for generations to come, and so I think it’s fair to categorize this as historic type funding, and we’re just really excited and eager to get to work,” Hobdey-Sánchez says. n
victorc@inlander.com
No Recall
Judge dismisses attempted recall of Al French. Plus, Idaho public defenders may not be able to cite lower pay to get out of cases; and Spokane warns 29 city employees they may be laid off.
BY INLANDER STAFF
In August, the Clean Water Accountability Coalition and Mary Benham, a West Plains resident, filed a recall petition against Spokane County Commissioner Al French, alleging that he attempted to cover up PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination that leaked into drinking water in the West Plains. However, Whitman County Superior Court Judge Gary Libey dismissed the recall petition on Sept. 26 and requested that Knoll Lowney, the coalition’s attorney, disclose who covered the costs of his legal services to the Public Disclosure Commission by Oct. 31. In an emailed statement to media outlets, French called the recall efforts politically motivated. “Today’s hearing exposed a purely political ploy by radical left activists, funded by dark money, to try to make Spokane County as radical as the City of Spokane,” French stated. French is currently running for reelection and is facing Democrat Molly Marshall in the Nov. 5 general election. (VICTOR CORRAL MARTINEZ)
CONFLICT WITH RATES
Starting Oct. 1, the Idaho State Public Defender office will be responsible for providing all public defense for indigent defendants in the state. The Inlander previously reported that many North Idaho conflict public defenders and contract attorneys, collectively working on more than 1,000 cases, had stated that they’d withdraw from the state’s pool of conflict attorneys and offload their cases due to financial concerns as the state takes over their contracts. A conflict public defender is contracted to represent individuals if there are conflicts of interest between attorneys or are multiple defendants involved in one case. On Sept. 18, the Idaho State Bar issued a formal ethics opinion, stating that public defenders can’t withdraw from cases without a judge’s approval. The opinion states that the courts have discretion to grant an attorney’s motion to withdraw. Still, if a public defender asks not to take a case due to an apparent personal conflict of interest, such as a financial burden, the lawyer may still be required to represent the client. Kootenai County conflict and contract attorneys previously received $150 per hour, plus $50 per hour to pay for their support staff. Starting Oct. 1, they will be paid $100 per hour (and pay their support staff from that), with the exception that the lead counsel on capital cases will make $150 an hour.
(VICTOR CORRAL MARTINEZ)
LOOMING LAYOFFS
Last Friday afternoon, the Spokane mayor’s office announced that 29 city employees are at risk of being laid off by the end of the year due to budget constraints. The three departments that would be most affected are accounting, information technology and criminal justice, excluding the police and fire departments, says Erin Hut, the city’s communication director. At the beginning of her administration, Mayor Lisa Brown identified a $25 million structural deficit in the city’s general fund budget, Hut says. The city has taken multiple actions to decrease the deficit to roughly $10.9 million currently. The potential layoffs, which would save about $3.4 million, are one of a few efforts now being considered to reduce it further. Another consideration is Proposition 1, Brown’s proposal on the November ballot to increase sales tax in the city by 0.1%. The “community safety” sales tax would generate roughly $6.5 million for the city’s general fund. Those funds would mostly be dedicated to the police (potentially funding new hires) and fire departments, as well as the Office of the Police Ombuds and Municipal Court, but along with other strategies, could also help stabilize the general fund.
(ELIZA BILLINGHAM)
THE MUSIC OF
HARRY POTTER
AND
OTHER HALLOWEEN FAVORITES!
SHIRA SAMUELS-SHRAGG CONDUCTOR
Back by Popular Demand! The magical sounds of Hogwarts and the wizarding world returns to The Fox! The Spokane Symphony conjures your favorite tunes from the Harry Potter films and many other Halloween favorites.
Come prepared to explore Diagon Alley, a selection of whimsical, fantastical, and magical shops from local witches, wizards, and muggles.
SATURDAY OCT 26 7:30 PM SUNDAY OCT 27 3:00 PM
SPONSORED BY: SANDY AND STEVEN KERNERMAN
Tax the Rich?
Initiative 2109 asks Washington voters whether they’d like to repeal the capital gains tax that affects the state’s richest citizens
BY COLTON RASANEN
For decades, Washington has had the most regressive tax system in the country, according to the nonprofit Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. The state’s poorest citizens have been paying a much higher percentage of their household income in taxes than the state’s richest people, in part because the state relies heavily on sales tax for revenue and does not have an income tax.
In the Institute’s January 2024 “Who Pays” report, which analyzes the tax systems in all 50 states, Washington’s lowest 20% of earners paid 13.8% of their household income in taxes, while the top 1% of earners paid 4.1% of their household income in tax. In 2018, the Institute reported that the tax gap was even wider at 17.8% for the lowest earners and 3% for the highest earners.
In response to the imbalance, the state Legislature in 2021 created a 7% tax on capital gains — these include the sale of stocks, bonds and other capital assets — that exceed $250,000 annually. Passed into law with only Democrats in support, the capital gains tax was intended to make the state’s tax system more progressive.
“The Legislature recognizes that levying this tax will have the additional effect of making material progress toward rebalancing the state’s tax code,” the state law reads.
Just three years after it became law, the capital gains tax could be in jeopardy as Initiative 2109 will ask Washington voters if they would like to repeal the excise tax.
The initiative is one of three brought forward by the political action committee Let’s Go Washington that will appear on the upcoming Nov. 5 ballot. The committee, led by hedge fund manager Brian Heywood, also supports a fourth
initiative on the ballot that would make the state’s long-term care insurance program optional.
“This is a direct tax on innovators, small businesses and the tech industry,” says Hallie Balch, communications director at Let’s Go Washington. While the law maintains an exemption for capital gains earned through retirement accounts, all residential and other property, and “familyowned small businesses,” Balch argues that doesn’t mean it won’t affect small businesses.
“They can put all the exemptions they want, but that doesn’t mean they will be followed,” she says, pointing to agricultural exemptions in the state’s Climate Commitment Act that weren’t enforced.
Those working for the No on I-2109 campaign argue that the initiative would give a tax break to the wealthiest Washingtonians and remove vital funding for education and child care in the state.
Revenue from the capital gains tax is put into the state Education Legacy Trust Account, which helps fund preschools, child care, special education, and community and technical colleges throughout the state.
“Ninety-eight percent of us are never going to pay this tax, but it benefits families across the state,” says Treasure Mackley, executive director of Invest in Washington Now, which is one of more than 150 organizations supporting the No on I-2109 campaign. “This will take away over $2.2 billion from education, early learning and child care if it is passed.”
In 2023, Washington took in nearly $900 million in capital gains taxes from activity in 2022, according to the state Department of Revenue. Fewer than 4,000 people had to pay capital gains
Presented by Jim Custer Enterprises, Inc.
I-2109 would repeal Washington’s capital gains tax.
taxes for that year, and of those, nearly 84% lived in King County. Of the 105 tax returns in Spokane County required to be filed under the state law, 84 had to make a net payment to the state, totaling nearly $8 million.
DEFUNDING EDUCATION?
Washington’s capital gains tax includes a clause dictating that the revenue will help fund child care and education in the state by depositing up to $500 million each year into the Education Legacy Trust Account.
In the state’s 2021-23 biennial budget, before revenue was collected from the capital gains tax, $28 million was dedicated to child care programs. That increased to $386 million for the 202325 biennial budget, Mackley says.
“This substantial investment is increasing access to child care and education for families all across the state,” she says.
This increased funding helped create more than 1,200 child care and preschool slots in Spokane County during fiscal 2023, according to the Washington State Budget & Policy Center.
If the state receives more than the $500 million threshold in a year, the additional funds will go toward school construction projects. Earlier this year, two-thirds of the 21 school bonds proposed across the state failed, including all five proposed school bonds in Spokane County. Mackley says the capital gains tax is vital for these school districts.
“If I-2109 passes, it will take away the additional funding for school construction that communities across the state need, particularly in areas that haven’t been able to pass a bond,” Mackley says. “This would be taking away that lifesaver, to have kids learn in a safe environment.”
However, Balch, with Let’s Go Washington, says the state is already required to fully fund education, so if this initiative passes, it wouldn’t strip funding from schools but would force the state to figure out how to reallocate funds.
While there are currently 171 school construction projects being funded by the capital gains tax, the fiscal impact statement prepared by the state’s Office of Financial Management for I-2109 states that the tax would not provide any funds for school construction in the next five fiscal years, because it’s not expected to bring in more than $500 million in any of those years.
‘BACK-DOOR INCOME TAX’?
While the capital gains tax was passed in 2021, it couldn’t go into effect right away because a Douglas County Superior Court ruled that the law was unconstitutional. Washington’s constitution does not allow the state to implement an income tax, and the court deemed that the capital gains tax was indeed a type of income tax.
“We feel like this is a sneaky way for the majority party to enact a back-door income tax,” Balch says. “According to every other state with a capital gains tax and even the dictionary, capital gains are a type of income.”
Mackley, however, says this argument just isn’t valid in Washington.
“This is just a scare tactic used by those who support I-2109,” Mackley says. “The opposition has already tried that argument up to the Supreme Court and failed.”
In March 2023, the Washington Supreme Court reversed the lower court’s ruling, arguing that capital gains were technically an excise tax, and therefore the law was not unconstitutional. The ruling stands after the U.S. Supreme Court in January declined to hear an appeal on the case.
Regardless, Balch argues that the capital gains tax is a gateway to implementing a statewide income tax. Washington voters have opposed an income tax 10 times since 1934. (Voters did pass an income tax in 1932, but the state Supreme Court ruled against it.)
“They’re already trying to change the threshold down to $15,000 so it will affect more Washingtonians,” Balch says, referring to Senate Bill 5335, which failed to make it out of the Senate Health & Long Term Care Committee during the past two legislative sessions. “It didn’t pass, but we all know Olympia is going to try to pass it again.” n
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HALLOWEEN
Feats of Fear
We went behind the scenes at Scarywood to understand what it takes to bring the theme park alive with fright
BY COLTON RASANEN
Fear is an instinctive, innate biological response that’s kept humans safe for many millennia. In today’s world though, many of the things we once feared — disease, darkness, delirium — are less deadly and therefore, less scary.
As people look to experience the adrenaline rush that true fear brings, places like Scarywood Haunted Nights have become an annual hub for horrors beyond comprehension: zombies, killer clowns (not from outer space), cannibals and pig-human hybrids.
“Anything that isn’t natural to people helps bring that scare factor,” says Scarywood director Jordan Carter, who also oversees marketing and entertainment at the North Idaho theme park. “We basically try to confuse the senses, we want there to be so many different senses that it becomes hard to tell what’s real.”
There’s a lot that goes into leaving visitors’ senses in complete disarray, he explains. Much of the park is covered in fake fog to obscure guests’ vision. For this year’s newest haunted attraction, The Swine, Carter’s team attached thousands of dried corn stalks to park fencing to create a corn maze. The park also pumps smells into the air. In Clowntown, for example, cotton candy scents elevate the creepy circus vibe.
It’s details like these that have kept folks coming back to Scarywood for the last 15 years. Each year the haunted park sees more than 70,000 visitors in just 15 nights, Carter says.
To better understand this frightful phenomenon, I decided to peek behind the scenes of Scarywood during its only trial run before opening to the public last Friday, Sept. 27. Without revealing too much of the murderous magic, here’s what my night looked like.
The terror and despair begins early in my Scarywood journey. I’m scheduled to arrive at the park by 5 pm on Sept. 21, but I can’t find parking in the guest lot. I panic and pull into an open lot so I’m not late. There are cannibals and clowns walking around, so at least I know I’m in the right place. (Sorry to whoever’s parking spot I stole for the night.)
To go truly behind the scenes, I decide it would be best to experience what a “scare actor” goes through. At least in appearance that is, since I didn’t have any Scare School (the boot-camp-style training where actors learn how to terrify guests) credentials.
I meet up with Carter during one of his only free moments of the night to determine what type of monster I’ll become. My first choice is to don a ghillie suit and become a bush. It seems easy and I secretly want to emulate my sister, who dressed up as a tree for Halloween one year, but that pitch is shot down.
Instead, I decide to be a zombie. I’ve watched a season or two of The Walking Dead, so I’m confident of my ability to portray the undead.
The line for makeup is intimidating and at least 50
Scarywood’s creepy clown squad.
ERICK DOXEY PHOTOS
people long, but Carter says that’s common. Each year, there are close to 300 scare actors who rely on a very small team of makeup artists — usually just five or six people — to bring the characters to life.
When I finally sit down to get zombified, I’m in the hands of Savanna Shafer, who’s been a makeup artist at Scarywood for nearly a decade. She uses small sponges to apply an alcohol-based face paint. It irritates my nose and burns my eyes, but she says it’s necessary pain, since gentler, oil-based paints won’t last the whole night.
It only takes Shafer about 10 minutes to finish most characters’ makeup. Next, fresh-faced monsters don their costumes and wait for the pre-show warmup.
I don’t wear a costume, so I only look like a zombie from the neck up. I don’t feel spooky at all, but baby cannibal Wucy, played by Jasmine Henry, tells me I “just need a stowy to weally bwing my chawacter to wife.”
After some thought, I decide I’m a journalist who died at their desk on deadline, explaining the clean black sweater and slacks I’m wearing. I also choose to keep my name the same, but will respond to just the first syllable grunted in my general direction, too.
Almost as soon as I’m becoming secure in my own creepy character, warm-ups begin. This is when the hundreds of actors, all completely transformed now, gather to stretch their muscles, including their vocal chords. A symphony of shrieks, screams and cackles echo into the night, as folks practice using their diaphragm to safely create bloodcurdling sounds.
PETRIFYING PHOTOGRAPHS
See more behind-the-scenes of Scarywood at Inlander.com
Now it’s time to descend upon the park. Actors in each scare zone and at all five haunted attractions use off-duty scare staff as guinea pigs to ensure everyone’s at their spookiest when the guests arrive.
I leave around 8 pm after doing a test-run of the cannibalinfested haunted attraction, Blood Bayou. Before I depart, though, I have to remove all my makeup — a surprisingly arduous task. Using a makeup-remover spray and at least five baby wipes, it takes about five minutes to get most of it off.
On the hourlong drive home, I realize I’m exhausted. I then remember the rest of the actors are scheduled to be at the park until midnight.
My brief peek behind the curtains may have revealed many of Scarywood’s secrets, but my experience is only a fraction of what it takes to bring the park to life… I mean death. n
Scarywood Haunted Nights • Sept. 27-Nov. 2; Fri-Sat from 7 pm-midnight, Thu & Sun from 7-11 pm • $51-$72 • Not recommended for kids under 12 • Silverwood Theme Park • 27843 US-95, Athol • scarywoodhaunt.com
Ghouls need to warm up, too.
Wednesday, October 9th, 2024
8:30 am - 2:00 pm
CenterPlace Regional Event Center
2426 N Discovery Place, Spokane Valley, WA 99216
Cost: Free - Breakfast included with registration
To register please visit our event website: www.eventleaf.com/e/2024CGConference
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: JOY LOVERDE
Best-selling Author of Who Will Take Care of Me When I’m Old? and The Complete Eldercare Planner: Where to Start, Questions to Ask, How to Find Help, 4th Edition, Joy Loverde is recognized as one of the leading experts on successful aging and family caregiving.
For questions regarding the CG Conference please contact the Caregiver Support Program: 509-458-7450 Option 2
Renaissance Revelry
A guide for first-time
fairgoers to enjoy everything a local renaissance faire has to offer
BY ERIN SELLERS
Old folktales warned of the perils of stumbling into the fae realm, where the rules are foreign, strict and unspoken. Any misstep could result in waking up with seven years gone or the loss of something precious to you.
Though there are few fae myths about Spokane and no fairy rings in Riverfront Park to stumble into, for just two days in October, a mystical world of knights and queens, fairies and mermaids appears, sprawled across a field in Colbert: the Spokane Renaissance Faire.
For the unindoctrinated, attending a renaissance faire may be alluring but seem just as intimidating and alien as the fairy forests of myth. When I invited my parents to join me at a faire for the first time, they were full of questions and anxieties: “What do I wear?” “Are tennis shoes fine?” “Can I bring my dog?” “What do I even do there?”
As a renaissance faire enthusiast (I’ve been to three faires in the last 11 months, sewed my own costumes and binge-watched the recent HBO docuseries Ren Faire), I know all the answers and all the tips and tricks to ensure that a first trip to any faire is full of mirth, magic and mead — not anxieties.
First, the costume, or “garb,” as some ren faire performers call it. There will be people in full suits of armor, elaborately constructed dresses and fantastical looks straight out of a movie, but don’t let this scare you away.
Putting together the perfect look for your first faire can be as simple as one trip to a thrift store for the staples: flowy pants or a layered skirt, a billowy shirt and a corset or a vest. Searching for earth tones and natural fabrics like cotton or silk will help you fit the faire aesthetics. Accessoriz-
ing with multiple belts, bangles, costume jewelry, hairpins and brooches can help take your look to the next level. If you’re crafty, there’s plenty of easy, Pinterest-able options for leveling up your look, like sewing brocade trims onto your pieces or making crowns out of plastic headbands, zip ties and paint.
When it comes to shoes, any frequent faire goer will tell you the same thing: Prioritize comfort, and don’t wear sandals. Terrain at faires is frequently uneven and dusty, and you want to be having a good time, not thinking about how much your feet hurt.
Many regular faire attendees have a ritual of starting with an incredibly basic look and then adding or upgrading pieces by buying one new item from the artisans selling garb at each faire they attend. So if you have a good time at your first faire, there’s room to start a tradition that lets you see how far you’ve come without breaking the bank.
Once you have a comfortable costume, prepping for faire gets a lot easier. Some tips: Always buy your tickets in advance (the Spokane Renaissance Faire sold out of door tickets last year), bring cash (many vendors don’t take cards because of a lack of wi-fi) and wear sunscreen. If the rules of your particular faire allow outside food and drink, it’s smart to bring water and snacks, so you can stay hydrated and spend your cash on things you can’t get elsewhere.
It’s best to head to the faire early in the day, if you can swing it. The lines to park and enter the grounds can get long during early afternoon. Once you get inside the gates, it can be overwhelming with hordes of people, rows of booths, and demonstrations and performances happening at multiple locations.
The best move for those prone to being overwhelmed is to grab a map and a schedule of events, or snap a picture of these two things and find a quiet corner to make a plan of attack. Decide which events you want to go to — definitely make sure to catch one of the jousts — and
set alarms on your phone or watch to remind you when they are, because just like in the fae realm, time can fly at the faire.
While you’re waiting for the joust or the magic show you wanted to see, peruse the artisan vendors to get a new piece of garb, a hand-forged weapon, a terrarium full of crystals or a glass-blown perfume bottle. Expect heftier price tags — most of the artisans make their wares from scratch. Some vendors offer services, too, like massages, tarot card readings or hand-drawn
portraits, which can make for a meaningful experience. You can also learn something new at the faire. Demonstrations of falconry or blacksmithing are frequently presented.
Don’t forget to make time to drink some mead if you’re over 21, and honestly, skip the giant turkey legs — they’re always dry and incredibly messy.
My final recommendation is to go with friends, but if none of yours are lured by the siren call of the faire, don’t fear — most fairegoers I’ve met have been incredibly friendly and willing to share a conversation, a drink or a bench at the joust! n
SPOKANE RENAISSANCE FAIRE
Organized by the Spokane Entertainers Guild, the Spokane Renaissance Faire has something for diehard fairegoers and fantasy first-timers alike, whether your speed is chilling at one of two beer gardens or catching a joust by the Seattle Knights. The two-day event schedule is packed with performances by local artists and out-of-town folks traveling the ren faire circuit, but some of the local highlights include performances of Much Ado About Nothing by the Spokane Shakespeare Society and demonstrations of fighting techniques by the Northwest Shield Wall. There are even activities for younger adventurers: Sit down for storytime with Wotan the Fairysmasher or a singalong with mermaids at the Gossamer Glade. (ERIN SELLERS)
Oct. 5-6, Sat-Sun from 10 am-5 pm • $15-$35 (group rates available) • Lazy K Ranch • 5906 E. Woolard Rd., Colbert • spokanerenfaire.com
MORE REGIONAL REN FAIRES! SPOKANE VALLEY RENAISSANCE FAIRE
Sat, Oct. 12 from 10 am-7 pm, free admission Valley Mission Park, 11123 E. Mission Ave. Event page on Facebook
SANDPOINT RENAISSANCE FAIRE
Early June 2025 • Bonner County Fairgrounds, 4203 N Boyer Rd. sandpointrenfaire.com
WASHINGTON MIDSUMMER RENAISSANCE FAIRE
Late July to late August, 2025 (five weekends) Towne of Merriwick, 18601 Sky Meadows Lane, Snohomish washingtonfaire.com
Step back in time to the early 1500s. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SPOKANE RENNAISSANCE FAIR
BODYTRAFFIC Season
Telling Vital Stories Through Dance
7:30 P.M. | Saturday, October 19
Coughlin Theater
Tickets: $38 - $54
Daredevil of the Squared Circle
After growing up in Seattle and Coeur d’Alene, Darby Allin’s fearless style has made him one of many Washingtonian stars leading All Elite Wrestling
BY SETH SOMMERFELD
Emerging onto the scene in 2019, All Elite Wrestling quickly established itself as an alternative to the superpower that is World Wrestling Entertainment. Prioritizing top-level matches over the more soap opera-y storylines, AEW offers an outlet for the type of performers and fans who love the art of hard-hitting, athletic in-ring storytelling.
And where does the Florida-based promotion turn to find its top stars?
Washington state, of course.
The current AEW World Champion? That would be Aberdeen’s Bryan Danielson (formerly known to WWE fans as Daniel Bryan), arguably the greatest technical wrestler of all-time. Who’d he beat to win the title? Tacoma’s Swerve Strickland, a dynamic villain who absolutely radiates charisma. Who is AEW’s prodigy talent? Seattle teen Nick Wayne, who signed with the company before he’d even graduated high school. Who is AEW’s best referee? Seattle’s own Aubrey Edwards, who made her name in Emerald City indie promotions. And that’s all before we get to 31-year-old Darby Allin, the homegrown Seattle daredevil who’s come to embody the fearless spirit of AEW.
Allin is the walking embodiment of extreme. Growing up in Seattle — with a spell in Coeur d’Alene — he was always drawn to pursuits that could result in bodily harm. After competing in amateur wrestling as a kid, he first gained some notoriety as a professional skateboarder. Pro wrestling might not have been the obvious calling considering the man’s 5-foot-8-inch, 165-pound frame, but he makes up for his size by throwing his body around like a madman.
With half his face painted like a black-andwhite skull, Allin exudes a brooding, mysterious confidence each time he approaches the ring. Once the bell rings, he hurls himself around like a stuntman with a death wish. This thrilling style has earned him legions of fans and helped him capture the TNT Championship multiple times (including winning it the first time against current WWE Champion Cody Rhodes) and the AEW Tag Team Titles once with his legendary mentor, Sting.
All Elite Wrestling and its stable of top Washingtonian talent make their Spokane debut on Oct. 8 for a special “Title Tuesday” episode of its flagship TBS show AEW:
Darby Allin beckons you to come see AEW live. LEE SOUTH PHOTO
Dynamite at Spokane Arena. The card features multiple title matches, and serves as the final show before the promotion’s big WrestleDream pay-per-view event in Tacoma on Oct. 12.
When one considers that local indie promotion Relentless Wrestling is putting on its second supershow at Northern Quest on Oct. 4 — Relentless Wrestling 30: Pinnacle, which features AEW talents like Max Caster and Danhausen — this might be the biggest and best pro wrestling week ever in the Inland Northwest.
Before AEW makes its inaugural Spokane stop, we caught up with Darby Allin to talk about Evergreen State grapplers, his wrestling days in CdA, and if he has any non-extreme pastimes.
INLANDER: What does it mean to you to have so much Washingtonian talent on the AEW roster?
ALLIN: It’s pretty cool, because coming up in Washington, it’s kind of like the black hole of the wrestling world. It’s really hard to break out. It’s really hard to break out. So the fact that so many of us have broken out, and not only broken out but are essentially top guys — Swerve, me, Danielson — it’s very, very cool.
Do you feel like there’s a common unifying DNA among the Washington wrestlers? Because you, Swerve and Danielson all have very different in-ring styles.
I think at the end of the day, it comes down to knowing that it wasn’t easy to break out, so I think we have a really good work ethic. Because I think we felt like we had to work a lot harder, because everything wasn’t in our backyard, right? I think a work ethic is second-to-none when it comes to Washingtonians.
Do you think the growth of indie wrestling in Washington state between you and Swerve’s old stomping grounds at Defy out in Seattle, or a fellow Buddy Wayne trainee Chase James running Relentless out here in Spokane, has helped make Washington less of a wrestling black hole?
It’s definitely opened a lot more doors, but the big thing wrestlers the Northwest have to learn is to not get complacent and not just be the king of the local scene. Because you can be the king of Seattle and feel like you’re a million bucks, but then you go down Chicago, California or wherever it may be, and nobody cares. Because Seattle has such a good fan base, people can get like, ‘Oh man, I’m doing so good!” but then they have a reality check when they go somewhere else. Like, “Whoa. I didn’t get the hometown reaction…” [Laughs]
Even probably a decade ago, it would have been harder to imagine someone with your background and of your stature being one of the top guys in a global wrestling promotion. I imagine sometimes you must just be so stoked you’re coming up in the business now in a company like AEW where everyone doesn’t need to be a hulking 1980s-style wrestling bodybuilder.
Yeah, absolutely. I think a lot of people are taking notice. I may be 5-foot-8, 165-170 pounds, but the thing is, you cannot argue that I can take more of a beating and am more physically ready than any 300-pound, 6-foot-8 guys. We’re not in the same category. I’m willing to go places that no one else is willing to go. It shows that my work works.
But I’m very careful that I exist in the year 2024. [Laughs] Holy crap.
In addition to skating and wrestling, you’re also a mountain climber with plans to scale Everest and have mentioned maybe being interested in traveling to Mars. So umm… does Darby Allin have any normcore or non-extreme cozy hobbies?
I like to whoop peoples’ asses at mini golf. n
All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite – Title Tuesday • Tue, Oct. 8 at 5:30 pm • $23-$65 • All ages • Spokane Arena • 720 W. Mallon Ave. • spokanearena.com
Cochinito Cares: Giving Back Spokane
For every donation during our Fall Fund Drive of $36 or more to KYRS, Cochinito Taqueria will provide a full taco meal to Giving Back Spokane, to feed those in need in our community.
Donate Oct 27th - Nov 2nd
Working together we can make a difference. Call (509) 747-3807 or find us online at KYRS.org
Annual Manual
Heart of the Arts
Terrain celebrates 15 years of its flagship event, so we asked 15 questions about the event over the years
BY JOHN BERGIN
If you ask people around the Inland Northwest what their favorite local art event is (as I did for our Question of the Week feature two weeks ago), you’ll find it difficult to find anyone not enamored with Terrain’s flagship event.
The annual one-night-only showcase blurs the distinction between art, artists and attendees as “thousands of your closest friends” come together in one massive, abandoned warehouse in downtown Spokane. This year marks Terrain’s 15th iteration, so to commemorate the milestone we asked co-founder Ginger Ewing and operations director Jackie Caro 15 questions about the event’s journey so far. Their answers have been edited for length and clarity.
INLANDER: What’s one of the most memorable submissions from the past 15 years?
EWING: One artist didn’t get in — back in Terrain 3, 4 or 5 — and he, the next year, did a performance piece eating the rejection letter. That was fun.
CARO: I remember at Jensen-Byrd there was one where a performance artist came out from the outside, then came into and onto the stage — Madeline McNeill — just to see how people interact with that, because they’re not expecting to see this random person walk through and create a performance.
How has Terrain changed in 15 years?
EWING: One of the things that
people don’t know is that Terrain was an all-volunteer origination for the first 10 years of its existence. We’ve only actually had staff for five years. So look at what we were able to build on an all-volunteer organization for a decade.
What do you hope Terrain looks like in five years, for its 20th anniversary?
EWING: To be quite honest, I hope the event itself is quite similar. For me, these are the roots of who we are as an organization. I think that we’ve captured something really special. It might change locations, but I don’t necessarily think the ingredients that make the flagship event what it is will change all that much.
How many artists participated in the first Terrain?
CARO: 30.
EWING: And we had to beg and plead for 30 people to submit.
How does that compare to now?
EWING: This year, we’ve had close to 500 apply and 457 participating.
Are there any artists who have participated in every single Terrain?
CARO: No one has done every single one of them, but several people have done nine, 10 — up there in the double digits.
EWING: Ohhh, Rajah. Rajah Bose! Except he’s not in it this year because he has a show at the Terrain Gallery right now, I think that’s why he doesn’t have anything to submit.
What’s special about the one-night format?
EWING: I think that it forces people to be in community with each other. When you know, if you don’t go tonight, you’re gonna miss out, it brings an energy and a sense of discovery that is communal and magical and allows you to run into people that you know, but a lot of people that you don’t know. And that intermixing, synergistic exchange — not only with the work, but with each other — I think is really pretty special.
How many volunteers does it take to put on Terrain?
CARO: We start intaking art on the 8th or 9th of September. And we’ve had people here every day since.
EWING: It’s usually 80 to 100 [volunteers] and hundreds of hours.
Who is this year’s event poster artist?
EWING: Ethan McCracken. And he is in a band called Itchy Kitty. One of the things that we do is that we continue to scour who we’re not reaching as artists. And we found his Instagram handle, fell in love with his artwork, and reached out and asked if he would be involved in this year’s event. Lucky for us, he said yes.
people to try it, to get out and put themselves out there. It’s a huge deal for these artists to even decide to put themselves in a juried show and hope that they get in.
Who can submit art to Terrain?
EWING: Anybody and everybody! We really encourage as many people to submit as possible. Typically we open submissions in January.
Looking back on Terrain’s various locations, which is your favorite?
EWING: Every place has a different feel and energy and special aspects. I actually love this location. I think that even people who came the last couple years will be surprised how different the location looks this year. In terms of the physical aspects of the space – the flow, the walls we have for visual art, the various locations we have for Terrain Theatre and Literature Park – I really love this location.
What’s some advice for first-time attendees?
CARO: Get here early. Wear comfortable shoes. Maybe bring a jacket, but also wear a T-shirt. It gets hot inside sometimes.
EWING: If you’re really wanting a su-
How challenging is it to ensure a wide range of art is selected by jurors?
EWING: What we do is prior to the jurying process, we actually reach out to a variety of sectors. So we’ll reach out to filmmakers to help us spread the word so filmmakers know about the event. Same with musicians, same with literary readings, same with visual arts. And we actually choose each jury accordingly. … And then, even within those juries, we try to be as diverse as possible.
Has the event itself launched any local artist’s careers?
EWING: We’ve had several artists say that they don’t know where they would be without the flagship event. I don’t want to put words in artists’ mouths. Rajah Bose, I imagine, would say that. Reinaldo [Gil Zambrano] is a phenomenal, phenomenal artist here in town. He was going to make it no matter what, but participation in this event and our other programs has fasttracked that.
CARO: Part of that, too, is just getting
per intimate experience with the artwork, I would encourage folks to check out preview night as well. We cap the number of people who attend so there’s more breathing room so you can spend more time with each individual artwork. Not that you can’t do that at the actual event! It’s just a lot busier. But if you’ve never experienced Terrain, you have to come to the main event.
How do you think Terrain has changed the community’s perception of arts?
CARO: I would hope it’s widened the perception of art, who is an artist and who can participate in art. And just opens your mind up to what Spokane is and what it has to offer. It’s everyone from every walk of life, and it’s pretty special to see that all in one location. n
Terrain 15 • Thu, Oct. 3 from 6-9 pm (preview night; $25) and Fri, Oct. 4 from 5 pm-midnight (free) • All ages • 314 W. Riverside Ave. • terrainspokane. com/terrain
Terrain returns to 314 W. Riverside Ave. for its flagship event. CHIANA MCINELLY PHOTO
Jackie Caro, left, and Ginger Ewing reflect on Terrain’s history. JOHN BERGIN PHOTO
Community
Know Your Neighbors
Neighborhood council leaders provide insight on their vibrant, collaborative and growing corners of Spokane
BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM, VICTOR CORRAL MARTINEZ, E.J. IANNELLI, MADISON PEARSON, COLTON RASANEN, SETH SOMMERFELD AND SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL
Whether you’ve lived in Spokane all your life or recently moved here, chances are you’ve heard the names of some neighborhoods in the city. The northeast is known for Hillyard. East Central is the gateway from Spokane Valley and communities to the east. But there are likely neighborhoods you wouldn’t be able to label on a map at trivia night. “Downtown?” That’s officially “Riverside.” You probably know Shiloh Hills, which was only formally recognized in 2016, as the north commercial part of the city, next to the Y at Division and Newport Highway.
To get to know our city better and provide a helpful guide, we reached out to members of each of our city’s 29 neighborhood councils to ask them about their neighborhood’s unique qualities. Their answers have been edited for length and clarity, and longer versions of their responses can be found at Inlander.com.
— SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL, SECTION EDITOR
NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCILS
Spokane’s neighborhood council program officially started in 2000, after city voters created a formal program in the city charter, says Gabby Ryan, a community programs coordinator with the city’s Office of Neighborhood Services.
“[Neighborhood councils] are volunteer-led community groups,” Ryan says. “They are made up of residents, they might have business owners or people who recreate in those communities. … Those councils work really hard to be agents of change.”
Each neighborhood council also selects someone to serve as their representative to the Community Assembly, which meets once a month with city staff, City Council members and sometimes the mayor. That body can vote on resolutions to bring to the City Council, and the representatives can also take what they learn from the city back to their respective neighborhood meetings, Ryan says.
Most neighborhood councils are run by retirees and struggle to get younger community members involved, Ryan says.
“I desperately want to encourage younger people to get involved,” Ryan says. “If you are 16 or older, please consider participating in the neighborhood council system. … Many of them are desperate for somebody who wants to be a leader or help with planning events.”
On Nov. 2, the city will host the second-ever Neighborhood Summit, a privately sponsored event for those already in neighborhood council leadership or who want to get more involved, says Amber Groe, another community programs coordinator for the city.
“Basically this is a half-day leadership and community engagement conference to provide technical training to our neighborhood council members across the city,” Groe says. “We want to make sure these folks feel empowered and educated on how to interact with the city.”
Current or aspiring neighborhood council members can register for the free event at my.spokanecity.org/neighborhoods/programs/spokane-neighborhood-summit/
The city will also celebrate the 25th anniversary of the neighborhood council system with events throughout next year.
— SAMANTHA WOHLFEIL
West
LATAH/HANGMAN
Ed Bruya, Community Assembly Representative Bruya has served in various roles with the Latah/Hangman Neighborhood Council for six years.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words?
Lovely but struggling.
What is your neighborhood’s claim to fame or hidden gem?
We have Vinegar Flats and also access to the Fish Lake Trail. Also Hangman Creek and High Bridge Park.
What’s your favorite place to go out to eat or drink in your neighborhood? Chaps. They have great food.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue in your neighborhood, what would you invest it in?
I would say that we would need some sort of fire truck or station to help out with the issues on the west side of [U.S. Route] 195 in the Eagle Ridge area. (MP)
GRANDVIEW/THORPE
Non-White Popution:
Joy Sheikh, Neighborhood Council Chair
Sheikh has served as chair for more than 10 years and has lived in the neighborhood for two decades.
What is Grandview/Thorpe’s best landmark, gathering spot or hidden gem?
The landmark and gathering spot would be Grandview Park, which is the heart of the neighborhood. We also have the Trolley Trail, which is a hidden gem that’s near and dear to my heart. Back in the olden days, there was a trolley that ran from, I believe, Medical Lake to Browne’s Addition, and about two miles of it ran through here before there was even a neighborhood. The tracks have long since been removed, but there’s still the trail, and it’s nice and flat and forested, so it’s really pretty.
What sets your neighborhood apart from the rest of the city?
We don’t have any commercial or public buildings — no store, no coffee shop, no school, no library, no community center, no church. A lot of people might like to see some commercial activity, but I personally love it the way that it is. It’s a great place to let your kids play in the street.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you invest it in?
At the top of 16th [Avenue] there’s an intersection that we lovingly refer to as ‘Malfunction Junction.’ People who aren’t from the neighborhood don’t know who to yield to when they come to it. It’s a mess. So I would fix all of that and get it built according to the plan that we made almost a decade ago.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words?
Secluded, natural, close-knit. (EI)
WEST HILLS
Robert Thompson, Neighborhood Council Chair Thompson has lived in West Hills for 12 years and began serving on the neighborhood council this year.
What is your neighborhood’s best landmark?
The Finch Arboretum. It’s a beautiful spot, a beautiful space to spend a day.
What sets your neighborhood apart?
We are an entry point into the city of Spokane that folks forget about. We have Sunset Highway coming off of the West Plains. If people are entering Spokane from the west and they’re not taking the freeway, they’re going to come through our neighborhood first, and I think that offers some very unique opportunities.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you invest it in?
More neighborhood planning. Just drawing up some ideas of what the Sunset Corridor and the Sunset and Government Way intersection could look like, really get some visuals of what our neighborhood could look like in the future. We’re so close to nature, and we have such a beautiful spot as it is that sometimes we aren’t capable of envisioning what that can be. Some design work could be incredibly beneficial, and of course, the Sunset bridge, as much money as we can throw at it.
Who is someone working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
Susan Mensching took over the neighborhood council last year after some folks had stepped down, and she’s remained incredibly involved in our council, bringing forward ideas and solutions. Whenever there’s a problem, she always has one, sometimes two or three, potential solutions. I just really admire people who can bring that to a space. (VCM)
...continued on next page
John A. Finch Arboretum can be found in the West Hills neighborhood. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO
Community
Central
BROWNE’S ADDITION
David Williams, Neighborhood Council Vice Chair
Williams and his wife have lived in Browne’s Addition for eight years, and he has worked with the neighborhood council for seven years.
What sets Browne’s Addition apart from the city?
We’re known primarily as a historic neighborhood, but I can tell you that it’s also a neighborhood that welcomes diversity and the folks that live here watch out for one another. Geographically it’s the smallest neighborhood in Spokane, like eight blocks by six blocks.
What are some of the best community gathering places in the neighborhood?
This corner [West Pacific Avenue and South Cannon Street] is very famous for gatherings. We’ve got El Que, we’ve got The Elk, this place [Caffe Capri], and there’s Coeur d’Alene Park.
If you had access to unlimited funds for the neighborhood, what’s the first thing you would invest it in?
The city was given a grant from the State Parks Foundation, which is going to make some great improvements in Coeur d’Alene Park. One of our primary focuses in this neighborhood is getting that park upgraded. (CR)
WEST CENTRAL
Emily Gwinn, Neighborhood Council Chair
Gwinn has lived in the neighborhood for 10 years and was elected neighborhood council chair in February.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, how would you spend it?
Something that comes up in our council meetings a lot is safety. That can feel different for a lot of different people. But from a lot of the families that I talk to, a lot of it’s around traffic safety and traffic calming and making the spaces around our neighborhood much more pedestrian friendly.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in your neighborhood?
Hat Trick Brewing, which recently opened. It’s a family-friendly place, and the people who own it are neighbors. They’re very passionate about giving back to the neighborhood.
Is there anyone specifically who you think is working hard to improve your neighborhood?
I feel lucky that I have a really strong, dedicated core executive board this year. Amanda Maule is our new secretary, and she’s exceptional and has such a passion for engaging the community and connecting with people. (MP)
LOGAN
Lindsey Shaw, Neighborhood Council Chair
Shaw has been the chair since 2020. She says she loves living in Logan and even ran against City Council member Michael Cathcart in 2023.
What’s the standout landmark of your neighborhood?
Definitely our river, the Centennial Trail and the Upriver Park that Avista has built. It is so peaceful and kind of an overlooked area.
What sets your neighborhood apart?
We have college students, halfway houses and families all living in the same area, so I think that diversity sets us apart from the other neighborhoods.
If you had $100,000 to spend in your neighborhood, how would you invest it?
If I had unlimited funds I would calm Hamilton down, kind of like what they did to Post Street with the big orange planters.
Where’s the best place to eat in the neighborhood?
Donut Parade [where she works]. I grew up coming here and I also see how much they do for our community, which makes me love them even more. (CR)
RIVERSIDE
Pia Hallenberg, Neighborhood Council Chair
Hallenberg has been the neighborhood council chair for about five years. She plans to step down to make room for new leadership but must remain in her position until someone steps up.
What’s your favorite part of the Riverside Neighborhood?
My favorite part is Riverfront Park. I just can’t believe I’m fortunate enough to have this beautiful nature right here in our neighborhood.
What sets your neighborhood apart from the rest of the city?
We are the downtown core. I think downtown is like the living room of Spokane; people come here for conventions, weddings and wine tastings, but some of us love to live and work here year round.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, how would you invest it in?
One thing I would like is a community center down here. There are so many empty storefronts that could be turned into a place for people to meet up and connect. It would help create a sense of belonging.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words? Diverse, urban, rustic. (CR)
PEACEFUL VALLEY
Janice Loux, Neighborhood Council Secretary Loux has lived in the neighborhood for 20 years and has served in every elected neighborhood council position over the last 12 years.
What sets your neighborhood apart?
The age of the neighborhood, the character of the neighborhood, in both natural environment and the people. It offers everything. It’s practically downtown, and yet it’s like you’re in nature down here.
If you had $100,000 to fix or add something, what would you invest it in? It would be nice to have a small coffee shop. It would be a place for the community to get together.
Who is working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
There are many people in Peaceful Valley who care so deeply. We have people who’ve been here for many, many, many years — some 60 or 70 years, some longer than that. They care so much about the neighborhood. One person that lately I think has done a lot for us is Michelle Jones. She helped us get our community garden back up and going.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words? Community embracing nature. (EB)
EMERSON-GARFIELD
Eileen Kazura, Interim Neighborhood Council Chair Kazura moved to Emerson-Garfield three years ago and recently stepped up from vice chair to interim council chair.
What is your neighborhood’s claim to fame?
In 2023, a couple local artists installed a new sign at the threshold to our neighborhood coming down from the North Hill neighborhood on Monroe. It’s this beautiful mosaic sign called Sun Shine Through. The community came together and painted the mosaic pieces. It’s just a really fun, beautiful, way to celebrate coming into or leaving our neighborhood.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in your neighborhood and why?
We’ve got both Ladder [Coffee] and a new Indaba in our neighborhood. Elliott’s Urban Kitchen has been around for a long time, and it’s just a really solid place to grab a drink or a lunch or dinner.
Who’s working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
Two people come to mind. Anne Luttrell, she manages our Friday Farmers Market. I think her persistence and her commitment to the community is just very evident. The other person is Clay Elliott, a somewhat recent attendee of our Emerson Garfield Neighborhood council who has been really focused on working with the city. (EB)
As is the case in other parts of town, Spokane’s central neighborhoods share a deep connection with the Spokane River. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO ...continued on next page
Community
Northeast
HILLYARD
Joe Carter, Neighborhood Council Chair
Carter has lived in Hillyard for two decades and been neighborhood chair for about eight years.
What is Hillyard’s best landmark or hidden gem?
We’ve got Locos restaurant, which is Texas barbecue, and we have Kismet, which is kind of southwest fusion, and another one called The Bad Seed.
We’re known for having really vibrant antiques, and we’ve got a really cool old train museum, which is where the name Hillyard comes from. Jim Hill, around the turn of the last century, had a train yard out here. He intentionally put it outside of the city of Spokane so he wouldn’t be bothered with regulations, which is sort of why we have a fierce, individual spirit up here.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you invest it in?
At Harmon Field and Skate Park there is kind of a freestanding structure that’s kind of like a half gazebo. I’d try to get that thing repaired.
Who’s working hard to improve Hillyard and what do you admire about that?
Laura Johnson. She gets to a lot of meetings, and tries to make sure Hillyard is represented, when fighting for funds and improvements in our area and fighting for recognition and respect for our community. I really respect her for that. (SW)
NEVADA HEIGHTS
Jonathan Tilley, Neighborhood Council Chair Tilley has been the neighborhood council chair for two years and has lived in Nevada Heights for 23 years.
What’s your neighborhood’s best landmark or hidden gem?
Probably our parks like Glass Park. We have three parks in our area. It’s just nice and pleasant in the middle of all the houses and businesses to just have these little spots.
What sets Nevada Heights apart from the rest of the city?
A lot of blue collar, hardworking people. Salt of the Earth people that just want to help each other and just get by. A lot of positivity and leaning on your neighbors.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in your neighborhood, and why? For breakfast, Hillside Inn is wonderful, and of course, Tomato Street for dinner. If you want some snacks, there is Casual Friday donuts.
Who’s working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
Natalia Gutierrez. She’s from the If You Could Save Just One organization, which I watched grow over the years. She is there to help with kids and provide activities. Also, the Zion Spokane Church helps us every year put on our movie night for our neighborhood. They hand out backpacks and school supplies, and they really help uplift the community. (VCM)
BEMISS
Luke Tolley, Interim Neighborhood Council Chair
Tolley is helping revamp the Bemiss Neighborhood Council in partnership with Hillyard and Logan.
What sets Bemiss apart from the rest of the city?
We’re like Hillyard’s little sister sometimes, but we also have the park vibe of Minnehaha, we brush up against the university district feel of Gonzaga and Logan, and we’re very much like Whitman, which is almost completely residential.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, how would you spend it?
I would love to set up a fund with $100,000 to provide child care and compensation to residents and neighbors to be able to participate in things like the neighborhood council and things that happen at the community center.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink?
Market Street Pizza. Their pizzas are all really gourmet and amazing, but you should not sleep on the wings.
Who’s working hard to improve Bemiss and what do you admire about that?
Dave Richardson, he’s our executive director of the Northeast Community Center. I don’t think they could’ve picked a better person to bring people together, to try new things, to try to make something out of a neighborhood and regional asset and help as many people as possible. (SW)
SHILOH HILLS
Cliff Winger, Neighborhood Council Chair
Winger has been involved in the neighborhood council since 2017.
How would you describe Shiloh Hills in three words?
Could I use just one word? Diverse.
We have immigrants. We have renters. We have elderly. We have a lot of different languages spoken here. We have people who’ve lived here when they were raising their kids and they’re now retired. We have young children.
What sets Shiloh Hills apart?
It’s not a unified neighborhood, it’s very eclectic. The north part of our neighborhood is in Mead School District, and south of Lincoln Road is in Spokane District 81, and Nevada [Street] separates us from east and west, so we end up with three or four different neighborhoods. That gives us opportunities as well as challenges.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue there, what would you spend it on?
What we really need is a community center. The only two facilities we have that are owned by the public are Shiloh Hills Elementary and Fire Station 18, except for the parks, which are sort of woefully inadequate. We have 15.1 acres of parkland for about 16,000 people. (SW)
WHITMAN
Charles Hansen, Neighborhood Council Chair Hansen has lived in Whitman for 75 years.
How would you describe the neighborhood in three words? Working class neighborhood. It was built originally to house the people from the railroads over in Hillyard. Roughly half the houses in the neighborhood were built in the ’20s. The other half were built in the ’50s. There were a lot of guys from Kaiser [Aluminum] that lived in the neighborhood also. So, we had essentially working class people here.
What’s your neighborhood’s claim to fame?
Whitman Elementary School.
What sets it apart from the rest of the city?
The school here is unique to the city because the boundaries of the school are all very busy arterials. Over the last few years, we’ve added a whole lot of sidewalks so they can walk to the school very easily.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you invest it in? I’d keep adding more sidewalks. (EB)
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The Hillyard Heritage Museum maintains some of the railyard history in the Hillyard Neighborhood. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO
Community
Southeast
SOUTHGATE
Andrew Hoye, Neighborhood Council Treasurer
Hoye has been active in the Southgate Neighborhood Council for 14 years and has lived in Southgate for 27 years.
What’s your neighborhood’s best hidden gem?
Hazel’s Creek, which is about 20 acres of farmland that was donated to the city about 12 years ago. The city has maintained it as essentially an open-area park.
What sets it apart from the rest of the city?
We have many gated communities. I think most of the people in Southgate are relatively private.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you invest it in?
I would like to see $100,000 put in an account for the neighborhood council’s future needs. We filed a protest with the hearing examiner, and at that point, if we’d had $100,000, we could have hired a competing professional engineering firm to present our arguments more eloquently.
Who’s working hard to improve the neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
Paul Kropp is an adjunct member of the Southgate Neighborhood Council. He’s been very active for many years in community and neighborhood efforts. (VCM)
COMSTOCK
Sandy Wicht, Neighborhood Council Treasurer, Community Assembly Representative Wicht grew up in the neighborhood, and moved back last year.
What’s the best hidden gem in your neighborhood? I would say the Rocket Market.
What sets Comstock apart from the rest of the city?
Half is more upscale with a lot of mid-century modern homes, and the other half were built in the ’40s. So it’s fun to walk around and look at all the different architecture.
If you had $100,000 to fix something, what would you spend it on?
Traffic calming. People are speeding along 29th, that seems to be a real concern for everybody.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in Comstock?
I think it would be a tie between Luna [which is just outside the neighborhood] and Manito Tap House. They both have good menus and good service.
Who’s working to improve Comstock, and what do you admire about that? Elizabeth Goldsmith. She’s involved with the neighborhood council. She gets things done. When the Comstock sign was painted over this year she got it cleaned up ASAP. (SW)
CLIFF-CANNON
Patricia Hansen, Neighborhood Council Executive Committee Member
Hansen has lived in Cliff-Cannon for 22 years and has been involved with the neighborhood council for at least 20.
What’s your neighborhood’s hidden gem?
Polly Judd Park. It’s hidden away. We created it on a dump, but it doesn’t look like that anymore.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink?
Rocket Bakery. They have gluten-free baked goods.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you invest it in?
I would make street crossings safer for children by putting in those accessible pedestrian signals with push-buttons.
Is there anyone specifically working hard to improve your neighborhood? Two people, absolutely. Nancy MacKerrow started and maintains the Susie Forest. And Judy Gardner, who worked tirelessly to put traffic calming into our neighborhood.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words?
Historic, welcoming, fun. (SS)
LINCOLN HEIGHTS
Sally Phillips, Clean Up Coordinator
Phillips has lived in Lincoln Heights for 40 years and has been involved with the neighborhood council for over 20 years.
What sets your neighborhood apart from the rest of the city?
The thing that I like just very particularly about our neighborhood is that we’re quite close to some natural areas that the city’s preserved.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, how would you spend it?
I would probably try to use it toward traffic calming projects. [It] is one of the enduring problems that neighbors bring up at meetings.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in your neighborhood, and why? For my husband and myself, it’s the Meeting House, which is down on East 11th Avenue and Pittsburg Street. It’s kind of at the far end of our neighborhood. We like it partly because we have an attachment to the location, because it’s half a block from where my husband grew up.
Who’s working hard to improve the neighborhood?
Jim Price. He helped update the historic walking map of all the homes in the neighborhood.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words? Trees and historic homes. (VCM)
I would mention Carol Tomsic, who is the chair of our neighborhood council. We are lucky to have somebody that’s willing to devote so much time to really paying attention to what the city has to communicate with us.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words? Quail, pine trees and traffic. (VCM)
ROCKWOOD
Tanya Starkel, Neighborhood Council Treasurer Starkel has been a resident of Rockwood since 2017 and has spent five years on the neighborhood council.
What’s your neighborhood’s best landmark? Rockwood Boulevard and then our triangle parks. We have four Olmsted triangle parks.
What sets the neighborhood apart from the city?
The historic homes and all the tree-lined streets. The district is on the National Register of Historic Places
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you invest it in?
I would say the sprinkler system [for Rockwood Boulevard], creating historic signs and finishing sidewalks along the Boulevard.
Who’s working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
MANITO/CANNON HILL
Mary Winkes, Interim Neighborhood Council Chair Winkes has lived in Manito/Cannon Hill for 26 years and has worked with the neighborhood council since 2015.
How would you describe the neighborhood in three words? Manito. Cannon Hill. [The two beautiful parks in the neighborhood.]
What sets it apart from the rest of the city?
It’s almost entirely residential, with many craftsman homes. Walkable. Very near to the downtown and health care.
What would you say is your neighborhood’s claim to fame?
The Scoop, a popular destination visited by folks both near and far.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in your neighborhood and why?
Hidden Bagel. The Scoop and Hidden Bagel are great, and happily so since they are the only places to eat within our neighborhood boundaries.
Who’s working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
Members of our neighborhood council, most notably Chris and Wilma Flanagan.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you invest it in?
Traffic calming and sidewalk repair so that our neighborhood would be safer and more walkable. (SS)
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Duncan Gardens can be found in the Manito/Cannon Hill neighborhood. ERICK DOXEY PHOTO
Community Northwest
BALBOA/SOUTH INDIAN
TRAIL
Claudette Ganger, Neighborhood Council Chair
Ganger has participated in her neighborhood council since moving to Spokane 18 years ago.
What sets your neighborhood apart?
We seem to have a high number of elementary schools — Indian Trail, Assumption and Balboa. We’ve also got a lot of churches for a neighborhood.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, how would you use it? It would definitely be traffic calming on Indian Trail Road, from Francis to Kathleen Avenue. The traffic on that stretch moves way too fast. Over the past four years, there have been four traffic fatalities, mostly involving speeding, and we’ve seen houses hit by speeding cars. The bright spot is that we’ve worked really hard to get attention brought to that, and it’s finally working. We’re getting a full-stop crosswalk, but a lot more needs to be done.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in your neighborhood and why? We’ve got one of the best gastropubs in Spokane, Cascadia Public House, which is a really cool spot. It’s always pretty busy, and it’s got that classic gastropub feel and a great menu. We’ve got another up-and-coming restaurant called Pint House [Burgers & Brews]. Both of them offer a different kind of atmosphere depending on what mood you’re in.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words? Peaceful, scenic, vibrant. (EI)
NORTH HILL
AUDUBON-DOWNRIVER
Jeff Stevens, Neighborhood Council Chair Stevens has served as chair at least three other times over the last 20 years.
What sets Audubon-Downriver apart from the city?
Access to recreation, being so close to the river and Riverside State Park. We have Drumheller Springs Park as well. We have a lot of recreational facilities here, that’s one of the reasons my wife and I live here, why we love it.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue in the neighborhood, what would you spend it on?
We did a neighborhood plan for the Shadle area that would increase the supply of multifamily housing and access to the park. It requires funds to do that.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in the neighborhood? Downriver Grill. They do a great job, it’s a nice quiet place to eat.
How would you describe the neighborhood in three words? Comfortable, family friendly. (SW)
Scot Webb, Neighborhood Council Chair
Webb has lived in North Hill and participated in the neighborhood council for five years.
What is North Hill’s best landmark, hidden gem or claim to fame?
If I had to name just one claim to fame, it would be the Garland District as a whole. As for a hidden gem, that would be Ruth Park. It’s a small park tucked away on Whitehouse [Street] and Dalke [Avenue] that not a lot of people know about. We’re working on putting in some benches there.
What sets North Hill apart from the rest of the city?
It’s a strong working class neighborhood. People take pride in where we live. And I truly feel like every corner of our neighborhood feels safe.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you invest it in?
Traffic calming and walkability. The neighborhood council’s answer to this is that we really want to increase the sidewalks and especially add them around the elementary schools in our neighborhood.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in your neighborhood and why? I love Bon Bon, the cute bar that’s attached to the Garland Theater. It’s one of my favorites. They make a lot of old-school cocktails. The staff’s always friendly, and it’s a quaint, fun place. (EI)
NORTHWEST
Gail Cropper, Neighborhood Council Chair, Community Assembly Representative Cropper has lived in the neighborhood for 30 years and served on the council since November 2019.
What is the Northwest neighborhood’s best landmark?
Loma Vista Park. It has one of those disc golf courses and it’s used for soccer and rugby practices, too. It has a beautiful greenspace as well as play features and picnic tables, and a lot of trees.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue in your neighborhood, what would you invest it in?
From what I hear from long-standing members, what’s important to them is the intersections of Driscoll Boulevard and Wellesley [Avenue] and also Assembly and Wellesley. There have been some [traffic-calming] projects that were agreed on and put forth by the neighborhood, but the plans got changed. Some people on Assembly near Dwight Merkel [Sports Complex] would also like to see those special hawklight crosswalks to make it safer to cross.
Who’s working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
One of our newer members to the board, Norbert Leute. We created a position [on the neighborhood council] last year called “member at large,” and he stepped up to join us. He’s focused on sidewalk problems and safety. (EI)
FIVE MILE PRAIRIE
Aaron Reese, Neighborhood Council Chair
Reese grew up on Fairchild Air Force Base and has been a Five Mile resident for over 15 years.
What is Five Mile Prairie’s best-known landmark?
We have Sky Prairie Park, which has a huge play area and has walking trails and everything. But if we’re talking about an iconic landmark, it would probably be the historic schoolhouse at the corner of the Strong [Road] and 5 Mile [Road] intersection, which is now the Lilac Learning Center.
What sets your neighborhood apart from the city?
Essentially, it’s kind of split. While the city has the Five Mile Prairie neighborhood, the entire Five Mile community is 50% Spokane County and 50% Spokane city. So you could be walking through a developed neighborhood one minute, and the next minute you’re walking past a farm with pigs, chickens, horses and cattle.
Who’s working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
There are two people that have, for many years, really poured a lot into the community. Kathy Miotke, a former chair of the neighborhood council, is definitely one of those Five Mile OGs who has put in a lot of time and effort. The other is Candace Mumm, who is a former city councilwoman.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words? Community-oriented, rural, suburban. (EI)
NORTH INDIAN TRAIL
Terry Deno, Neighborhood Council Chair Deno has lived in the neighborhood for nearly 48 years and has participated in the neighborhood council for two decades.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words?
Awesome place to live (hopefully “to” doesn’t count).
What sets your neighborhood apart?
We’re kind of like a little town. We have pretty much everything that you need except for a movie theater and a larger hardware store.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, what would you spend it on?
I’d probably say our number one issue would be Indian Trail Road — something to slow people down. Or we’d spend the money on the park. We’re working on a future park [called Meadowglen].
What’s the best landmark?
Pacific Park. The whole month of July we have neighborhood concerts there.
Who is working hard to improve your neighborhood?
One of our chairs, John Dietzman. He’s worked on the planning commission. (SW)
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Drumheller Springs Park is one of the city’s hidden gems. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO
Community East
MINNEHAHA
Shannon Benn, Neighborhood Council Chair
Benn has lived in Minnehaha for 24 years and has been a member of the neighborhood council since 2016.
What is your neighborhood’s best hidden gem?
Our hidden gem would be Minnehaha Park. We have such a beautiful neighborhood.
Who’s working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
Tyler Kern. Benjamin Moore recently donated a lot of paint to our neighborhood council so that we could paint over graffiti and other things on the old tennis courts in Minnehaha Park. Tyler and his family, his wife and his children, came out and they helped repaint. It was amazing to see a whole entire family take time out of their weekend, take time out of their evenings, to come down and help us take on a graffiti abatement project.
Is there anything else that you would like to highlight?
Our neighborhood is just an amazing place to be. We sometimes have deer that walk through. We have a lot of eagles that nest up in the trees in Minnehaha Park. It is kind of as close to country nature living as you can get in the city. (VCM)
CHIEF GARRY PARK
Luc Jasmin III, Neighborhood Council Chair
Jasmin has lived in Chief Garry Park off and on for the last 16 years, and has been involved with the neighborhood council for four years.
What’s Chief Garry Park’s best landmark?
I think our best landmark is the river. We also have our park — Chief Garry Park is centralized in our neighborhood and a lot of times there’s folks from all different walks of life and all different types of ethnicities coming together to utilize it, whether it’s the splash pad or the basketball court or baseball or a softball game.
What sets it apart from the rest of the city?
We’ve got a high percentage of youth, we have a decent percentage of elderly, and then we also have a lot of young professionals. Next to East Central, we have the most diverse neighborhood in Spokane. It’s cool.
Who’s working to improve the neighborhood and what do you admire about their efforts?
Colleen Gardner. She’s been in the neighborhood council for about 17 years. We also have a nonprofit called Northeast Youth and Family Services. They took an old gas station and totally remodeled it and that’s done a lot for the neighborhood especially because it’s right across the street from Stevens Elementary. Between Colleen and Northeast Youth and Family Services, it’s awesome to see. (SW)
EAST CENTRAL
Doug Trudeau, Neighborhood Council Chair
Trudeau doesn’t actually live in East Central, but his business there, Trudeau’s Marina, is where he spends the majority of his time. He’s been the neighborhood council chair for about two years.
What are the hidden gems of the East Central Neighborhood? Disc golf, the Ben Burr trail, and the cricket pitch at Underhill Park.
If you had $100,000 to fix an issue, how would you invest it in? Electric vehicle charging stations — $100,000 doesn’t really go far any more.
What’s your favorite place to eat or drink in your neighborhood? Fresh Soul restaurant and Wisconsinburger.
Who’s working hard to improve your neighborhood and what do you admire about them? Michael Brown puts on the SERA (Spokane Eastside Reunion Association) community celebration every August and helps young people every day with life skills at his restaurant [Fresh Soul]. LaVerne Biel manages the Sprague Union [Business Improvement District], and she makes sure the area stays clean and vibrant for the community.
How would you describe your neighborhood in three words? Diverse, vibrant and resilient. (CR) n
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The Catalyst is one of the new buildings along a revamped Sprague Avenue in the east part of the city. YOUNG KWAK PHOTO
Torra Tea opens in Spokane Valley, infusing Scottish traditions with an upscale twist
BY ELIZA BILLINGHAM
Slàinte mhath (pronounced “slawn-ja-va”) is Scottish Gaelic for “good health.” It’s the perfect way to cheers a glass of Scotch or a cup of tea.
Thankfully, at Torra Tea, you don’t have to choose between the two.
This August, Kathryn Soady (pronounced so-AY-dee) opened the stylish Scottish high tea shop and craft cocktail bar in a shopping district off Dishman Mica Road. It features nearly 40 loose-leaf teas and almost as many whiskeys, plus small plates of sweet or savory comfort foods, from freshly baked scones and finger sandwiches for afternoon tea to short ribs and meat pies for heartier, pub-inspired bites.
It’s all served in a swanky dining room that ditches kitschy cottagecore for more streamlined, gold-gilded glam.
“My mantra is ‘Tradition with the unexpected,’” Soady says.
On one side of the restaurant, picture windows look out on basalt outcroppings of the Dishman Hills Natural Area. The opposite wall is painted a
dark blue, with a mural of misty mountains and a framed picture of an abandoned, maybe enchanted, Scottish castle. It doesn’t take too much imagination to hear bagpipes (except for one day a few weeks ago, when there legitimately was a bagpipe player playing outside the shop — and he’s promised to come back!).
But Frankie, the deer head on the wall, is polished brass, with silly glasses and a pipe hanging from his mouth. He’s always available for selfies. The blend of new and old, sweet and savory, bottles and kettles is surprising, but also just right.
“When you think traditionally in Scotland about their hot toddies, it’s a blend of whiskey and tea, right?” Soady says. “So it’s actually turned out to be rather fabulous.”
On every tea canister behind the bar, there’s a list of measurements, temperatures and times.
“There’s a little bit of science behind brewing a good cup of tea,” Soady says, heating a teapot and cup to the exact warmth for the blackberry fig tea
TOP: Torra Tea owner Kathryn Soady. ABOVE: Three cheers (and tiers) for afternoon tea!
ERICK DOXEY PHOTOS
she’s about to brew. The black tea brews differently than a white, yellow, oolong or green tea.
This is Soady’s first food venture, but she’s used to science. Before coordinating tea times, Soady helped coordinate patient care as a physical therapist and health care operations executive.
“There are a lot of parallels to caregiving and being in the hospitality industry — how much you give of yourself to your customers or to your patient, just making people feel cared for,” she says. “Whether it’s our craft of providing good health care or whether it’s our craft of providing fabulous food in an environment, there’s a bit of an art and a science to both of them.”
There are two ways to order meals at Torra Tea. You can choose from an assortment of small plates, lunch plates or entrees, then pair your own cuppa or cocktail if you like. Plates range from a savory snack of cheese, cherries and nuts ($8) or a Scottish oat cake with butter, chutney and fruit ($7), to a sandwich platter ($8) or savory pie with salad ($18), to bourbon maple
High Tea ($48) offers heartier courses with soups and savory pies.
Even though Torra Tea has only been open about a month and a half, Soady is already planning autumnal updates to the menu, like a butternut bisque, a Canadian butter tart and fall spice tea cake.
And, of course, fall cocktails. In addition to whiskey, Torra Tea has every other classic spirit available. The mixologists behind the bar are just as comfortable creating your favorite negroni or gimlet as they are with guiding you toward your new favorite tea. But whiskey is a strong suit, so don’t miss their three new cocktail additions for Old Fashioned Week from Oct. 11-20.
Torra is Scottish Gaelic for “from the castle.” It’s a rare but beautiful name for a girl that Soady found while perusing a baby name book. Soady gets her Scottish blood from both sides of her family. But she, like many other Scots, are still discovering their heritage.
“A tea service is just designed to bring tea and some food together.”
short ribs ($34) or coddle, a traditional Irish dish with pearl barley, bacon, potatoes and bangerstyle sausages ($26).
Or, you can let Torra Tea do the pairing for you, and experience more of the care and thoughtfulness of a prepared tea service.
“Afternoon tea really is more British and came out of one of the queen’s desires to have a little something to eat before supper time,” Soady says. “A tea service is just designed to bring tea and some food together.”
Each tea service is served with a whole pot of tea, brewed to perfection before it comes to the table. A Pick Me Up service ($9) brings out scones, homemade clotted cream, jam, and a choice of fruit kebab or yogurt parfait to accompany the tea of choice. A Sweetie or Savory Night-Cap (both $22) are charcuterie boards of fruits, cheeses and tasty things to end an evening with.
Afternoon Tea ($38) is a three-tiered service with sandwiches, scones and mini dessert pastries. For something closer to a meal, the Scottish
“I’ve recently learned more history about Scotland,” she says. “They have a lot of barren areas now because for a period of time they went through as a country, the ruling people pushed everybody out of the highlands to the coasts and the lowlands. So there are a lot of ancient ruins and places that are beautiful now. People are rediscovering the inside of the country more.”
In a similar way, Torra Tea guests might discover for themselves that Scottish food is much more than haggis, that notorious pudding often made from sheep organs.
“When I looked at things that are common on menus, there’s actually a lot of Indian flavor mixed in,” Soady says. “That’s why I have a chutney on my charcuterie board.”
So whether you’re sipping high tea around a table or savoring a moment alone with a nightcap and a good book, know that you’re partaking in both a vintage and modern tradition.
Slàinte mhath! n
Torra Tea • 11205 E. Dishman Mica Road, Spokane Valley • Open Tue-Sat 11 am-4 pm • torratea.com • 509-798-8432
Saturday October 5th • 4pm
A savory meat pie is a Scottish favorite.
FACE/OFF
It’s a rare thing to see a film where you can’t stop yourself from smiling, especially when it’s one as wryly sardonic as A Different Man. The latest from writer/ director Aaron Schimberg, who had previously made the thematically similar though more slippery 2018 feature Chained for Life, is a film about faces, the world’s perception of them and the stories we tell ourselves about them. Most ambitiously, it raises more unwieldy questions of identity and wields them with clever precision. It’s a frequently electrifying if still slightly messy experience that’s gleefully unafraid to upend itself, laughing in the face of our expectations for it just as it has a go at the narratives that shape them.
Initially, this centers on Sebastian Stan playing the struggling actor Edward. His only big gig is a grimly hilarious office PSA, his dumpy apartment has a moldy hole in the ceiling, and this New York is far from the city of his dreams. Oh, and Edward also has neurofibromatosis, a condition where benign skin tumors cover much of his face. Stan spends much of the film’s beginning wearing prosthetics, but rather than feel exploitative, the subtext about the perils of casting a handsome star to play such a part is soon made text. This is a film that turns its eye inward at every turn, uncovering withering humor just as it does subtle sadness about the state of the world it’s quietly satirizing. When Edward undergoes an experimental treatment to remove his tumors,
BY CHASE HUTCHINSON
this sci-fi/body horror conceit is treated with appropriate absurdity as Schimberg smuggles in sharp asides about a medical system that can be dismissive and hostile to disabled people. What ensures A Different Man remains light on its feet while staring down these questions is the man who soon comes in and steals every scene like he’s taking a stroll in the park.
Directed by Aaron Schimberg
Starring Sebastian Stan, Adam Pearson, Renate Reinsve
If there is one element the film could use more of, it’d be Adam Pearson dancing through it as Oswald, a gregarious and charming fellow who begins to embody Edward in a play based on his life. Pearson, in addition to starring in Chained for Life, also had a small but quite significant role in Jonathan Glazer’s spectacular 2013 film Under the Skin that became something special in his hands. The same is true here as he makes A Different Man not only delightfully, dryly funny, but also more biting when it needs to be. As an actor who actually has neurofibromatosis, he is not only acutely aware of the preconceived notions people will have about him based on his face, but how to skewer them. Pearson is utterly outstanding in the role, delivering lines with heaps of joyous flair, countering Stan’s increasingly sullen performance perfectly. The heart of the film is found in the contrasts between the two as they expose the fears Edward has about how, while his life now seems better, he remains just as troubled as he was before it began anew.
ALSO OPENING
JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX
They really gave Joaquin Phoenix an Oscar for Joker despite it not being close to a top-10 Joaquin performance or a topthree portrayal of the Joker, huh? (That remains more deranged than the Clown Prince of Crime himself!) Anyway, this new one has Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn and is a jukebox musical? Rated R
MONSTER SUMMER
An idyllic summer for a group of young kids gets upended when monsters start terrorizing their town. They’ve gotta stick together to defeat the horror with the help of a retired detective (Mel Gibson). Rated PG-13
WHITE BIRD
Following the events of 2017’s Wonder, which saw the class bully expelled, saidbully’s grandma (Helen Mirren) recounts how, as a girl, she was saved from Nazis by a boy with a handicap in this combination coming-of-age sequel/prequel.
Rated PG-13
Adam Pearson steals the spotlight from Sebastian Stan in A Different Man
Barnes in various so-so Marvel movies, also comes to life. We see the darkly comedic combination of confusion, rage and despair in his eyes. Should Edward not have everything now that he looks like how he’s “supposed to?” How is it that his life is still not going how he wanted? Does he not deserve happiness? A Different Man is a comedic parable that doesn’t always fully know where it is going with these questions, but seeing Stan and Pearson bounce off each other gives the film its punch.
Alongside the magnificent Renate Reinsve (The Worst Person in the World) as Edward’s neighbor Ingrid — who mines his life for her play— it’s an acting trio as good as any this year. That it’s shot in 16-mm film by Wyatt Garfield, cinematographer for great films like 2020’s Nine Days and 2022’s Resurrection, ensures it all looks great, with rich textures masking silly situations.
The film has been compared to the work of Charlie Kaufman — the shattering Synecdoche, New York looming large over key parts due to the metafictional nature of it all — though this ultimately feels reductive, especially with the uniquely beguiling ending that Schimberg throws us into. A sudden burst of violence and a major jump in time leaves us adrift, though this gambit mostly pays off in a cheeky closing exchange between the three characters. A few final fleeting looks, one that recalls a moment earlier in the film that opens up a whole host of other meanings, a pointed showstopper of a line from Pearson, and a grin in return put one last smile on the face. n A Different Man Rated R
This is where Stan, most known for being Bucky
Summer Daze
Sundance winner In the Summers looks back at childhood through a hazy but compelling lens
BY JOSH BELL
Writer/director Alessandra Lacorazza begins her tender coming-ofage drama In the Summers with a nearly idyllic look at a summer spent between a father and his two daughters, as they warily reconnect after an unspecified amount of time apart. Vicente (René Pérez Joglar, aka rapper Residente) now has custody of his kids Violeta and Eva during the summer, and he’s determined to make the most of their time together, sprucing up the house he inherited from his late mother and planning lots of fun activities for their few months in Las Cruces, New Mexico, before they head back to California to live with their mom.
That’s just the first of four summers that In the Summers depicts, though, and over time the relationship between Vicente and his daughters (who are played by different actors at different ages) becomes a lot more strained. In the Summers is best in its quietest moments, when Lacorazza isn’t reaching for serious dramatic impact. This isn’t the story of an abusive relationship or an irreconcilable family rift, and the subtle shifts in the parentchild dynamic are more affecting than the self-consciously significant life events.
One of those events comes almost exactly halfway through the movie, via the kind of trauma that prestige indie dramas sometimes seem obligated to include in order to increase their narrative stakes (it’s not surprising that In the Summers picked up the Dramatic Grand Jury Prize at this year’s
Sundance Film Festival). That’s not necessary here, and the sudden dark turn feels out of place with the mostly nostalgic tone, especially since Lacorazza returns to that tone again right away.
It’s already clear that Vicente isn’t a perfect father and that he makes mistakes and acts irresponsibly in ways that Violeta and Eva will probably carry with them for the rest of their lives. Piling on the external misery feels like a cruel manipulation of both the characters and the audience.
Thankfully, In the Summers recovers from there, without dismissing the severity of what happened. Since Lacorazza leaves out everything between the summers (which are all set several years apart), she relies on the cast to fill in the gaps, and Joglar effectively charts Vicente’s evolution. He’s introduced nervously fidgeting in his car as he waits for Violeta and Eva to arrive, clearly anxious about being the kind of father he believes his daughters deserve. He sometimes comes close to meeting those expectations, and he often falls short, but he never gives up on the effort.
Not rated
does a decent job of connecting the different versions over time. While Vicente is already an adult, and is mostly trying to keep himself on track, Violeta and Eva undergo major changes as they grow from tweens to adults, and that’s where it’s most essential to establish the continuity between who they were and who they become.
In the Summers
Directed by Alessandra Lacorazza
Starring René Pérez Joglar
At the Magic Lantern
By the time the characters are in their early 20s, played by Lio Mehiel and Sasha Calle, the weight of their experiences is clear, and Mehiel and Calle carry all the baggage from the younger actors into the final segment. Aside from Vicente, the only other constant presence is Carmen (Emma Ramos), a bartender and childhood friend of Vicente’s who becomes a sort of surrogate mother for the two girls, and later a support system for Violeta in her journey as a queer woman.
Violeta and Eva never give up, either, even if they’re often let down when they arrive for the summer. Casting multiple actors in the same roles makes it tougher to get a handle on the characters, although Lacorazza
Most of that journey is left offscreen, though, and in that way In the Summers underserves its most complex character. The sun-dappled cinematography evokes a sense of childhood memories that are always sweet even when tinged with sadness, and Lacorazza captures the liminal space of Las Cruces as a border town between both nations and cultures. The rest of the details are left in the margins, and In the Summers leans a little too heavily on its admittedly impeccable vibes. n
A split family’s story unfolds over years in the indie drama In the Summers
Invincible and Still Breaking the Law
Judas Priest drummer Scott Travis discusses the new album Invincible Shield before the band plays Spokane Arena
BY TAYLOR D. WARING
Leather. Motorcycles. Thousands of cars and a million guitars. The wrenching pain of forbidden love, terrifying robots and Nostradamus — for the last 50 years, Judas Priest has had their finger on the pulse of true heavy metal, culturally, sonically and visually. While 1980’s British Steel demonstrated the band’s mainstream appeal with hard rock anthems like “Breaking the Law” and “Living After Midnight,” their oeuvre has been foundational to the dark parasol of heavy subgenres. Arguably their heaviest record, Painkiller, not only influenced the technical madness of death metal pioneers Death, but also the look and sound of the 2000s metalcore scene. Hell, even Thin Lizzy owe Priest credit for pioneering the iconic twin-lead guitar style — and we wouldn’t have bands like Mastodon or Metallica without Lizzy. While there are certainly some excellent legacy metal acts still out there, none of them (at least in my
opinion) have been as consistently powerful, and influential, as Priest.
That legacy continued this year when the heavy metal hellraisers released their 19th studio album, Invincible Shield. While the follow-up to 2018’s Firepower (another excellent heavy metal record) doesn’t exactly break any new ground for the band, I’m not sure anyone would want it to in 2024. It has Rob Halford’s iconic, truly powerful and virtuosic vocals, ferocious riffs for days, some of the best hooks of the year and pummeling drums. Tracks like “Panic Attack,” “Invincible Shield” and “As God as My Witness” are all A-class certified headbangers. My personal favorite track is the slightly doomier “Escape from Reality” — I think it’s one of the heavier tracks Judas Priest has put out in a while, both musically and lyrically.
Judas Priest hasn’t been through the Northwest since
2018, and the group doesn’t always make it up this way. But that will change when the band charges into Spokane Arena on Oct. 6. While Judas Priest is full of life on stage, and the guys have gained a sort of heavy metal immortality, the band is getting older — just three years ago, longtime guitar player Richie Faulkner had a heart attack on stage — so make sure you don’t miss this chance to see the legendary Judas Priest in action.
Remember to rock hard and ride free.
Ahead of Judas Priest’s Spokane show, we chatted with drummer Scott Travis about still touring, Invincible Shield and more.
INLANDER: As a longtime Judas Priest fan myself, Invincible Shield absolutely rips. A lot of the legacy acts, when they start getting toward album 20, it’s something you listen to because you feel like you’re
The high Priests of heavy metal (drummer Scott Travis is second from left).
obligated to do so out of respect. But, I find myself listening to Invisible Shield quite a bit — it has that Defenders of the Faith or Ram It Down 1980s era vibe. I was wondering what went into making that record so powerful? What were some of your favorite tracks to play?
TRAVIS: Well, I’ll answer the last one first. I enjoy “Invincible Shield,” the title track. It’s just got a cool intro, and a great chorus. It’s fun to play — and it’s in the new set.
It’s hard to put a finger on why the record came out the way it did. When you do a record — whether it’s one song or 10 or 12 — you always try to put out the best thing you can and hope the fans enjoy it. But you never know when you’re in the studio if you’ve got a “successful” record, so you always do the best you can. Invincible Shield seemed to grab a lot of people; it brought in some new fans while also satisfying the old Judas Priest fans. We’re thrilled to death about it.
That is monumental — still bringing in new fans with album 19. I saw y’all for the first time at Northern Quest Casino, at an outdoor show for the Firepower tour in 2019, and I was blown away by how powerful the band still sounds — Rob, especially.
What can fans expect from this tour? You mentioned playing some rippers off Invincible Shield. Any classic Priest songs you’re looking forward to playing?
Well, we have to do a lot of the “classics” of Judas Priest, which is a good problem to have. When a band has a 50-year career, there’s a lot of songs, and you have to continually play the ones most familiar to the audience. That’s a privilege and a treat.
We’re going to do stuff like “Sinner,” for instance — an old classic Judas Priest song that never gets old. Even as many times as I’ve played it with the band, I just love it. It’s a cool, nasty, heavy metal song, and it’s pure Judas Priest.
We’ll play two songs from the new record and, of course, “Painkiller” — can’t do a Priest show without that. The stage set is different than it was for Firepower. It’s streamlined and looks great with the lights — we’ve got all the typical heavy metal, Spinal Tap props you’re supposed to have at this stage of our career. We’d bring out lasers and fire if we could, but some arenas don’t allow that, so we can’t.
You’re also touring with Sabaton. How’s it been sharing the stage with them?
They’re great guys, and we get along with them personally, which is important. The camaraderie is great. Their stage set is awesome. I won’t give it away, but their drum riser is probably one of the coolest I’ve ever seen. They go over well, and even if some people in the audience haven’t heard them before, they always get a good reception.
If you’re into more traditional heavy metal, you definitely know of them — but I’m sure there are new Judas Priest fans who might be in for a treat seeing them. Are you going to borrow any ideas from that drum riser for future shows? No, no, it’d be too obvious to steal something like that!
Anything you want to leave us with regarding playing in Spokane?
We haven’t played there in several years. We always tour the West, but we don’t always get to the Northwest. We always draw good crowds there, so I’m looking forward to it. It’s my favorite time of year — the fall. It’s crisp outside, not too cold, and definitely not hot and humid like now. I’m really looking forward to it. The band’s excited to play all these places we haven’t been to in a while. n
Priest, Sabaton
6
7:30
FOLK POP JADE BIRD
LOCAL PUNK THOSE DAMN KIDS
Though she grew up across the pond in England, Jade Bird developed a fondness for country music in her early teen years. Now, she’s known for her distinctively Americana/folk rock sound, having opened for genre greats like Brandi Carlile and Father John Misty. Dare I say she’s got the genre down to a science? Bird’s deep-cutting lyrics and vocal prowess shine on her near-perfect, self-titled 2019 debut album. Her infectious vigor and rollicking melodies sprinkled throughout her discography fortify the promise of an authentic, vulnerable and thrilling night at the District Bar when she flies through town next Thursday. — MADISON PEARSON
Jade Bird • Thu, Oct. 10 at 9 pm • $20 • 21+ • The District Bar • 916 W. First Ave. • sp.knittingfactory.com
Thursday, 10/3
J BING CROSBY THEATER, Stayin Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees
BOLO’S BAR & GRILL, Theresa Edwards Band
THE CHAMELEON, Lost Ox, Jason Perry Band CHECKERBOARD TAPROOM, Weathered Shepherds
J QQ SUSHI & KITCHEN, Just Plain Darin
J SPOKANE TRIBE CASINO, Soul Asylum, The Juliana Hatfield Three ZOLA, Mason Van Stone Band
Friday, 10/4
J BARRELHOUSE PUB & PIZZA, Karaoke Fridays
BARRISTER WINERY, a Stagecoach West BERSERK, Dancing Plague, Blunt Skulls
J THE BIG DIPPER, Those Damn Kids: Beautiful//Chaos Album Release Show with Rotting In Place, Day Shadow, Eva BING CROSBY THEATER, No Quarter
CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, ManeyAxe
THE DISTRICT BAR, Moon Hooch, Bon Panda Breaks
GARDEN PARTY, Storme
J GORGE AMPHITHEATER, Luke Combs, Parker McCollum, Wyatt Flores, Ray Fulcher
J THE GRAIN SHED, Haywire
GRANT COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, ‘90s Flannel Fest
NIGHT OWL, DJ F3LON
J PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Ron Keiper Trio
POST FALLS BREWING COMPANY, JamShack
RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs
THE RIDLER PIANO BAR, Just Plain Darin
RIVERSIDE PLACE, Truth, Stylust, Hypho, Weird Waifu
SPOKANE VALLEY EAGLES, The Black Jack Band
ZOLA, The Rub, Justyn Priest
Saturday, 10/5
J THE BIG DIPPER, Earthworks, Heritor, Sonic Druid BOLO’S BAR & GRILL, Agents of Rock
J THE CHAMELEON, Vika & the Velvets, General Mojo’s, The Jaws of Brooklyn
CHAN’S RED DRAGON ON THIRD, Lil Gospel Devils, Longnecks
CHINOOK STEAK, SEAFOOD & PASTA, Kyle Swaffard
J CREATE ARTS CENTER, Popeye Rose Social Club
CUTTER THEATRE, Paper Flowers: Remembering Fleetwood Mac
J GORGE AMPHITHEATER, Luke Combs, Parker McCollum, Wyatt Flores, Ray Fulcher
GRANT COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, ‘90s Flannel Fest
IRON HORSE (CDA), Fast Forward
THE LARIAT INN, Neon Interstate MOOSE LOUNGE, Fire From Ashes
NIGHT OWL, Priestess
Our youthful years are largely devoted to trying to figure out exactly who we are. The same goes for bands. The hippie punks of Spokane’s Those Damn Kids throw their musical heart into a blender and serve up the results on the group’s new album Beautiful//Chaos which mixes together chunky hard rock riffs, guttural hardcore screams, rebellious skate punk vibes and more alt-rock sounds for a concoction that’s sure to fire up any fellow kids (while hopefully annoying uptight parents who just don’t understand why Those Damn Kids are making such a racket). The band unveils its fresh batch of tunes at The Big Dipper with support from Rotting in Place, Day Shadow, and Eva.
— SETH SOMMERFELD
Those Damn Kids: Beautiful//Chaos Album Release Show with Rotting In Place, Day Shadow, Eva • Fri, Oct. 4 at 7:30 pm • $15 • All ages • The Big Dipper • 171 S. Washington St. • thebigdipperspokane.com
J PACIFIC TO PALOUSE WINE BAR, Just Plain Darin
J PEND D’OREILLE WINERY, Ian Newbill RED ROOM LOUNGE, Live DJs
J SPOKANE TRIBE CASINO, Hell’s Belles ZOLA, Kaitlin Wiens, Sydney Dale
Sunday, 10/6
J THE BIG DIPPER, Cancerslug, Absent Cardinal BOLO’S BAR & GRILL, Agents of Rock CHINOOK STEAK, SEAFOOD & PASTA, Kyle Swaffard
J HAMILTON STUDIO, Olivia Brownlee HOGFISH, Open Mic
IRON HORSE (CDA), Fast Forward MOOSE LOUNGE, Fire From Ashes
J SOUTH HILL GRILL, Just Plain Darin ZOLA, Sugar Bear Dinner Party
Monday, 10/7
J THE BIG DIPPER, Mexican Coke, Fentanyl, Asbestos, Psychic Death
EICHARDT’S PUB, Monday Night Blues Jam with John Firshi
RED ROOM LOUNGE, Open Mic Night
Tuesday, 10/8
THE DISTRICT BAR, Carbon Leaf
J HAMILTON STUDIO, Ken Peplowski with Hot Club of Spokane
J = THE INLANDER RECOMMENDS THIS SHOW
J = ALL AGES SHOW
J HAMILTON STUDIO, Ken Peplowski with Zonky Jazz Band and Red Hot Kitten Stompers
J KNITTING FACTORY, Terror Reid, Elizoe & Domsta
OSPREY RESTAURANT & BAR, Ron Greene
SWING LOUNGE, Swing Lounge Live Music Tuesdays
ZOLA, The Zola All Star Jam
Wednesday, 10/9
J THE BIG DIPPER, MSPAINT, Destiny Bond, The Mall
THE DRAFT ZONE, The Draft Zone Open Mic
IRON HORSE (VALLEY), Keanu
OSPREY RESTAURANT & BAR, The Ronaldos
RED ROOM LOUNGE, Red Room Lounge Jam
J TIMBERS ROADHOUSE, Cary Beare Presents
ZOLA, Don Hawkins, Scott Ryan Ingersoll Duo
Just Announced...
THE CHAMELEON, Stilgone, Oct. 13. THE CHAMELEON, Blackwater Railroad Company, Oct. 60.
THE CHAMELEON, Better World the Better Vote Ballot Party, Oct. 19.
J THE BIG DIPPER, D.R.I., Oct. 27.
THE DISTRICT, Terrapin Flyer, Nov. 7.
J THE BIG DIPPER, Scott H Biram, Nov. 8. THE DISTRICT, Slap Frost Tour, Nov. 8.
J KNITTING FACTORY, Phora, Nov. 9.
J BING CROSBY THEATER, Jake Shimabukuro & Mac McAnally, Nov. 18.
J THE BIG DIPPER, Big Fun, Nov. 19.
J THE BIG DIPPER, Public Serpents, Dec. 2. THE DISTRICT, Color Green, Dec. 4.
J THE BIG DIPPER, Dopethrone, Jan 30. THE DISTRICT, Yesness, Feb. 2.
J J NORTHERN QUEST CASINO, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Nov. 7.
Coming Up...
J KNITTING FACTORY, Citizen Soldier, Icon for Hire, Halocene, Oct. 10, 7 pm.
THE CHAMELEON, Sun Blood Stories, Dirt Russell, Itchy Kitty, Gotu Gotu, Oct. 10, 8 pm.
J THE DISTRICT BAR, Jade Bird, Oct. 10, 9 pm.
J THE BIG DIPPER, PIG, Oct. 11, 7:30 pm.
J KNITTING FACTORY, 10 Years, Oct. 11, 8 pm.
MUSIC | VENUES
219 LOUNGE • 219 N. First Ave., Sandpoint • 208-263-5673
ARBOR CREST WINE CELLARS • 4705 N. Fruit Hill Rd., Spokane Valley • 509-927-9463
BABY BAR • 827 W. First Ave. • 509-847-1234
BARRISTER WINERY • 1213 W. Railroad Ave. • 509-465-3591
BEE’S KNEES WHISKY BAR • 1324 W. Lancaster Rd.., Hayden • 208-758-0558
BERSERK • 125 S. Stevens St. • 509-315-5101
THE BIG DIPPER • 171 S. Washington St. • 509-863-8098
BIGFOOT PUB • 9115 N. Division St. • 509-467-9638
BING CROSBY THEATER • 901 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-227-7638
BLACK DIAMOND • 9614 E. Sprague Ave. • 509891-8357
BOLO’S BAR & GRILL • 116 S. Best Rd., Spokane Valley • 509-891-8995
BOOMERS CLASSIC ROCK BAR • 18219 E. Appleway Ave., Spokane Valley • 509-368-9847
BUCER’S COFFEEHOUSE PUB • 201 S. Main St., Moscow • 208-596-0887
THE BULL HEAD • 10211 S. Electric St., Four Lakes • 509-838-9717
CHAN’S RED DRAGON • 1406 W. Third Ave. • 509-838-6688
THE CHAMELEON • 1801 W. Sunset Blvd.
CHECKERBOARD • 1716 E. Sprague Ave. • 509-443-4767
COEUR D’ALENE CASINO • 37914 S. Nukwalqw St., Worley • 800-523-2464
COEUR D’ALENE CELLARS • 3890 N. Schreiber Way, Coeur d’Alene • 208-664-2336
CRUISERS BAR & GRILL • 6105 W Seltice Way, Post Falls • 208-446-7154
CURLEY’S HAUSER JUNCTION • 26433 W. Hwy. 53, Post Falls • 208-773-5816
THE DISTRICT BAR • 916 W. 1st Ave. • 509-244-3279
EICHARDT’S PUB • 212 Cedar St., Sandpoint • 208-263-4005
FIRST INTERSTATE CENTER FOR THE ARTS • 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. • 509-279-7000
FOX THEATER • 1001 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-624-1200
IRON HORSE • 407 E. Sherman, Coeur d’Alene • 208-667-7314
IRON HORSE BAR & GRILL • 11105 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley • 509-926-8411
JOHN’S ALLEY • 114 E. Sixth St., Moscow • 208-883-7662
KNITTING FACTORY • 911 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-244-3279
MARYHILL WINERY • 1303 W. Summit Pkwy. • 509-443-3832
MILLIE’S • 28441 Hwy 57, Priest Lake • 208-443-0510
MOOSE LOUNGE • 401 E. Sherman Ave., Coeur d’Alene • 208-664-7901
NASHVILLE NORTH • 6361 W. Seltice Way, Post Falls • 208-457-9128
NORTHERN QUEST RESORT & CASINO • 100 N. Hayford Rd., Airway Heights • 877-871-6772
NYNE BAR & BISTRO • 232 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-474-1621
PEND D’OREILLE WINERY • 301 Cedar St., Sandpoint • 208-265-8545
POST FALLS BREWING CO. • 112 N. Spokane St., Post Falls • 208-773-7301
RAZZLE’S BAR & GRILL • 10325 N. Government Way, Hayden • 208-635-5874
RED ROOM LOUNGE • 521 W. Sprague Ave. • 509-838-7613
THE RIDLER PIANO BAR • 718 W. Riverside Ave. • 509-822-7938
SEASONS OF COEUR D’ALENE • 1004 S. Perry St. • 208-664-8008
SPOKANE ARENA • 720 W. Mallon Ave. • 509-279-7000
SPOKANE TRIBE RESORT & CASINO • 14300 US-2, Airway Heights • 877-786-9467
SOUTH PERRY LANTERN • 12303 E. Trent Ave., Spokane Valley • 509-473-9098
STORMIN’ NORMAN’S SHIPFACED SALOON • 12303 E. Trent Ave., Spokane Valley • 509-862-4852
TRANCHE • 705 Berney Dr., Wall Walla • 509-526-3500
ZOLA • 22 W. Main Ave. • 509-624-2416
COMMUNITY FANS OF FRIGHT
October is the one month each year when horror fans get to openly talk about all the dark and twisted things they love. And this year they’re gonna have a lot to talk about as the second annual Halloween X-Spo hits Spokane this weekend. Between spooky local art, a live magic show, a creepy costume contest and tons of exhilarating exhibitors, there’s bound to be something for everyone. Additionally, several horror movie actors are scheduled to attend, including Russell Hodgkinson from Z Nation, Alex Vincent and Christine Elise from the Child’s Play franchise, and Jon Abrahams, who stars in the upcoming Terrifier 3
— COLTON RASANEN
Halloween X-Spo • Sat, Oct. 5 from 10 am-6 pm and Sun, Oct. 6 from 10 am-4 pm • $15-$35 • Spokane Convention Center • 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. • halloweenxspo.com
COMMUNITY SPOKANE’S SOUK
You may be unfamiliar with the Arabic word “souk” meaning market or bazaar. This Saturday, Spokane hosts its very own souk, bringing the tastes, smells and sounds of the Middle East to residents of the Inland Northwest. Featuring a variety of food and grocery vendors, artists, and artisans selling their goods, music, performances, and lots of baklava, the souk provides a way for locals to get to know the region’s diverse Middle Eastern community over a shared love for delicious food and good music. Whether you’re a dancer, eater or just want to learn, make sure you go to souk!
— JOHN BERGIN
Souk! Arabian Market • Sat, Oct. 5 from 11 am-7 pm • Free • Mukogawa Commons • 4320 W. Owens Ridge Road • aishaazar.com
VISUAL ARTS LIFE IN PLASTIC
What happens when things in our world are no longer useful? Do they transcend into beauty or descend into decay? Photographer Sarah Knobel sees mystery, destruction and hope in every object around her. Step into her world through What Remains Transparent, an exhibition at Eastern Washington University’s Gallery of Art, where Knobel takes plastic objects left to the wayside — mostly leftover packaging from everyday goods — and puts them center stage. She explores the beauty and havoc that this material wreaks on our globe. But bright colors, whimsical compositions and thoughtful contrasts bring to life a world you’ll want to be a part of. The truth, both thrilling and somber, is that you already are.
— ELIZA BILLINGHAM
Sarah Knobel: What Remains Transparent • Oct. 3-Nov. 8; open Mon-Fri from 9 am-5 pm • Free • Eastern Washington University • 140 Art Building, Cheney • ewu.edu/gallery
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VISUAL ARTS THE FIERCEST FRIDAY
We’re getting down to the last few First Fridays of the year. If you’ve yet to venture out and admire local art this year, there’s no better time than the present! Lace up your shoes, put on a jacket, and make your way to the Kolva-Sullivan Gallery for the annual Archie Bray Resident ceramic exhibition (pictured), and check out the Liberty Gallery above Auntie’s for an ode to spooky season with a show called “Mask.” Cozette Phillips’ solo exhibition at Terrain Gallery features art drawing upon observations about climate change, and to top it all off, Terrain’s 15th flagship event is happening the same night in downtown Spokane. There’s no better night to get out and support local creatives than October’s First Friday.
— MADISON PEARSON
First Friday • Fri, Oct. 4 from 5-8 pm • Free • All ages • Locations vary • firstfridayspokane.org
FOOD & DRINK TASTE MAKERS
Dedicate a whole weekend to your whiskey obsession at the Coeur d’Alene Resort’s Whiskey Barrel Weekend, a two-day bourbon bonanza sponsored by Maker’s Mark. For the sixth annual event, the resort and distiller have teamed up to make a limited-edition, custom whiskey blend that you’ll only be able to taste at the lakeside leisure mecca. Sip it on a boat during the first ever Whiskey and Waves Cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene on Friday evening. Sip it on the green during the Maker’s Mark Open on Saturday morning. Sip it at the convention center for the main tasting event that also features 50 other whiskeys, or at the Cigars and Guitars afterparty on Saturday evening. Or sip it in the spa between your facial and aroma soak. Basically, whatever you want to do, head to the Coeur d’Alene Resort and find a whiskey to sip with it this weekend.
— ELIZA BILLINGHAM
Whiskey Barrel Weekend • Oct. 4-5; Fri from 6-8 pm, Sat from 9:30 am-9 pm • $45-$85 • Ages 21+ • Coeur d’Alene Resort • 115 S. Second St. • cdaresort.com/whiskey-barrel-weekend
HAYDEN
I SAW YOU
TAN 4 RUNNER AT TRADER JOE’S Around 5:30 on Tuesday I was the redhead in front of you in the express lane grabbing croissants. I was feeling shy, but I wish I had said hi. Then when I went out to my car, your 4runner was parked in front of me. If you are single and interested, I hope you respond to this and we can connect. -Shy Red
SPOKANE Just a message from Minneapolis. Missing you Spokane.
NORTH FOOTHILLS YOKE’S You: small petite brunette with perfect smile. I was @ Redbox viewing few DVD releases. I wanted to speak but that beautiful face left me speechless. You ever get bored always free breakfast @ Frankie Doodle’s every Sunday. I will be guy eating cinnamon roll.
DRUM SOLO IN THE SATURN Dude, my friend and I watched as you slayed that set of air drums in your gold Saturn while waiting for the light to change. I especially enjoyed when you made sure to hit that skin all the way over on the right side passenger dash. Bravo! It’s great to see someone so passionate about something other than politics. I’ve been giggling for three days straight, thanks & rock on dude!
CHEERS
ROAD AND NSC CONSTRUCTION WORKERS Cheers! to the hardworking crews out there improving Spokane with better roads
and (eventually!) the new North-South Corridor. Although city planners created avoidable delays and traffic bottlenecks in the process, that is not your fault. I salute you warriors of asphalt, concrete and steel, and thank you for the long hours you spend exposed to the elements and the ire of inconsiderate and stupid drivers, in order to smooth our travels and save our suspensions. And how about the beauty etched into the concrete pillars and bridge supports on the elevated roadway by SCC! The temporary inconvenience of detours and delays will quickly be forgotten as we happy motorists traverse wonderfully smooth and brightly striped streets, and one day sail quickly over the Spokane River on the way from the Valley to Colville. Keep up the good work and be safe out there! I’ll do my part and slow down in your presence.
AIRPORT HELP JOSH, you are awesome!
I am one of the dozen passengers that you assist during one of your shifts at our wonderful airport. You were waiting at the door of the plane and took me exactly where I wanted to go. Yeah, I know it’s your job but YOU were kind and funny, thoughtful and efficient. You asked if I needed to make any stops. Which is very meaningful and thoughtful to someone relying on another for transportation assistance. You were a wonderful reminder of how much and why I love Spokane. Thank you.
BEING WATCHED? We are being watched, that’s why we only see one side of the moon. The giants in the Bible were known as the Nephilim or “fallen angels.” They were said to be on the earth before and after the flood. They were the offspring of the “sons of god” and “daughters of men” mentioned in the Bible. NASA knows the moon is hollow and occupied, so they couldn’t send back real pictures. The moon is an artificial spaceship while the earth is a timeship. Moving from 3D to 4D to 5D requires a shift in our perception. Time is known as the fourth dimension according to Albert Einstein’s “Special Theory of Relativity.” Nikola Tesla said the aether or fifth element was the opposite of gravity. Our Space-Time Continuum is evolving. Our fifth dimension is believed to be our mind’s eye, or imagination (thoughts create).
HALLOWEEN IDEA FOR CORBIN COMMUNITY
I can’t sleep and had a wild idea, maybe it is too late to implement. What if instead of the crowds going door to door, there was an organized trick or treat at the park, that way the neighborhood would have less to clean up and less traffic? A trunk or treat or booth
type of set up. Thanks neighbors
JEERS
IDEOLOGUES Congratulations to those who pushed the “defund the police” and “reimagine policing” rhetoric in the name of equality, equity, or whatever term you choose next. Thanks to your identity politics, police have stopped enforcing laws,
including traffic regulations. As a result, over the last five years in Washington state, traffic fatalities have increased by 39%, and insurance premiums have risen by 50%. Now, there’s blood on your hands and less money in the pockets of Washingtonians. To the rest of you who vote, consider not supporting progressive candidates who push identity politics next time.
PLANNED PARENTHOOD BILLBOARDS
Planned Parenthood: “Making Abortion Accessible Again?” Seriously? At least you’re actually naming the vile procedure you provide, instead of hiding behind the fig leaf of “reproductive health.” But when did it become inaccessible? Your mockery of the conservative presidential candidate’s slogan is clear, but it’s also deceptive. It’s been repeatedly enshrined in Washington state law and guaranteed as a “fundamental right.” It is legal, open to women of any age, and consent from any other person (including parents, partner or spouse) is not required. As abhorrent as those provisions are, that’s what the Supreme Court enabled when it returned the issue to individual states two years ago. And nationally, the result has been a noted increase in the number and rate of abortions performed each year. So who are you tacitly lying to and trying to scare with your billboard’s implications?
TO: WOMAN WHO DUMPED CHLOE You drove 30 MILES, dumped a sweet, loving, scared-to-be-outside tortoise shell cat at my home. You once loved her: she was chipped, named CHLOE. Your phone is disconnected. Yes, life happens, but there ARE options
to rehome. Did ALL your friends, family, and neighbors say “no”? Did you contact the six rescues in Spokane and Kootenai County? Did you post a note at your vet’s? Did you seek pages on Facebook and post requests? When you adopt YOURS is the responsibility for their ENTIRE life. Dumping a pet is not only a crime in Washington, it’s immoral, despicable! She loved you, she TRUSTED you and you abandoned her! Take my advice: Never own a pet again.
have hurt your feelings so badly. Kinda like the ones plastered in intersections and on streets.
#SPD I agree with “SPD-Again?” about the reasons I can’t trust our police force. I moved here in the early 1980s. SPD scandals, from gambling to rape to violating civil rights to resisting reforms to cover-ups to killings (remember Otto Zehm!) have been regular events ever since. City employees. Public
RE: 4 PM SEPT. 19 I gotta second that. I have no knowledge of that specific accident but southbound Monroe from 4th to 9th is egregiously dangerous. There are crosswalks but no stop lights at 5th and 6th street and maybe at 7th as well. That section of Monroe is so steep that cars going up in the winter don’t want to slow down, but there are pedestrian crossings at all of those intersections. That section of Monroe should be flat out closed during winter. And in dry conditions improvements need to be made for the safety of pedestrians. It’s next to a hospital and Ronald McDonald house for god’s sake.
RE:RE: CHOOSE It seems like we still want to put the blame on the women, it’s true it’s our choice, and our responsibility, but without the man there’s not a baby, and if we make birth control not available, there’s a problem, men need to step up, ask questions are you using birth control, if not then he needs to wear a condom, if you’re going to have consensual sex, both parties are responsible, stop putting this on the woman, it makes you wonder, if the man got pregnant, would we blame them.
A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE So pregnancy is god’s will, but trying to ban birth control so unplanned pregnancies don’t happen is good? My argument is, if this is true, then why not ban ED drugs (which are advertised more than birth control for women) because if pregnancy is god’s will so is ED (erectile dysfunction) otherwise it sounds like we’re targeting women again
RE: SPD-AGAIN? Yeah cop cars should probably be more neutral-maybe if it had a BLM sticker or a LGBTQ one it wouldn’t
servants. NOT above the law, elite military units. Please, find & keep the good officers among them — they do exist, & I appreciate those — & can the rest. Please!
GET THE N-S CORRIDER DONE!!! The population rise in this area has caused traffic to increase exponentially (and dangerously) within the past two years. People disrespect and, thus, never use public transportation. The Division Exit Zombies wander out into traffic. Idiots on drugs and immature teens often speed and/or use their dumbphones and cause crashes, adding much more time to already long jams. Every car I see while stuck in morning and afternoon traffic has ONE person driving and MAYBE his/her children in the vehicle. Other alternatives: CARPOOL — BUILD LIGHT RAIL — WIDEN I-90 — DECREASE LAND PERMITS to HUGE, GREEDY CORPORATIONS — REDUCE UNNECESSARY DRIVING. Think about it. You want Spokane to turn into Seattle, Portland and San Francisco? n
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.”
First 1,000 fans through the gates receive a poster featuring Chiefs forward and Seattle Kraken 1st Round draft pick Berkly Catton.
Tickets: spokanechiefs.com • Call: 509-535-PUCK “Way To Save” Berkly Catton Poster Giveaway Fri. 10/4 vs. Kelowna Rockets
7pm Game Time: Sponsored By: Magnet Schedule Giveaway Sat. 10/5 vs. Seattle Thunderbirds
First 2,500 fans through the gates receive a 2024-25 regular season magnet schedule courtesy of Numerica Credit Union.
6pm Game Time: Sponsored By:
EVENTS | CALENDAR
BENEFIT
SHAKESBEER: BREWS, BRATS AND THE BARD A fundraising event for Shakespeare Coeur d’Alene featuring live performances, beer, bratwurst and a sneak peek of the group’s upcoming show. Oct. 4, 6 pm. $25. The Innovation Den, 415 E. Lakeside Ave. shakespearecda.org (208-818-0654)
BEYOND PINK DESIGNER FASHION
SHOW & AUCTION The 15th annual fashion show benefitting Beyond Pink features a runway show, food, drinks, an auction and more. Oct. 5, 5:30-10:30 pm. $125. Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls. beyondpink.net
HOEDOWN FOR HOPE A fundraising event for Spokane HOPE featuring raffles and auctions. Oct. 5. $100. Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. spokanehope.org
RIVER’S WISH SANCTUARY HAPPY
HOUR & AUCTION A night of cocktails and savory bites to benefit River’s Wish Animal Sanctuary through silent and live auctions. Oct. 5, 4-7 pm. $75. Spokane Club, 1002 W. Riverside Ave. riverswishanimalsanctuary.org
CDAIDE CHEF CHALLENGE Sample and vote on appetizers from six local chefs who compete in a live elimination cooking contest. The event also features raffles that benefit CDAIDE. Oct. 10, 5:30-8:30 pm. $125. Hagadone Event Center, 900 S. Floating Green Dr. cdaide.org (888-999-7998)
EYE CONTACT An art exhibit and silent auction benefitting Volunteers of America Spokane. The event also features food by Inland Pacific Kitchen, live performances and educational sessions. Oct. 10, 5-8 pm. $25. Washington Cracker Co. Building, 304 W. Pacific. event.gives/eyecontact2024
COMEDY
FUNNY FUNNY FUNNY JOKE JOKE
JOKE A comedy experience combining stand-up, live sketches and other mixed-media bits with a rotating lineup of comedians. This month features Harry J. Riley, Chris Jessop and Samuel Mantsz. Hosted by Josiah Carlson. Every first Thursday from 7:30-9 pm. $15. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.org
BIG JAY OAKERSON Oakerson is a standup comedian, radio show host, and actor. Oct. 4-5, 7 & 9:45 pm. $25$35. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com
DUNGEONS & DRAG QUEENS Three drag queens play the tabletop game Dungeons & Dragons live while dungeon master and comedian Paul Curry and musician Carson Cutter guide them. Oct. 5, 9 pm. $10. The District Bar, 916 W. First. sp.knittingfactory.com
AJ WILKERSON Wilkerson has appeared at the Nashville Comedy Festival and has worked with comedy veterans like Jeff Allen. Oct. 6, 7 pm. $20-$25. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokaneceomedyclub.com
JEFF ALLEN Stand-up comedian Jeff Allen performs. All proceeds benefit SRT Services, a local non-profit. Oct. 7, 7-9 pm. $40. Turning Point Open Bible Church, 11911 N. Division. srtservices. org/comedy (509-467-5122)
THE VIRAL PODCAST Chelcie Lynn and Paige Ginn are comedians and hosts of their podcast, The Viral Podcast. Oct.
8, 7 pm. $39-$100. Spokane Comedy Club, 315 W. Sprague. spokanecomedyclub.com (509-318-9998)
AN EVENING WITH TOM PAPA Papa is a comedian, actor and host of the XM Satellite Radio show Come to Papa. Oct. 10, 7:30 pm. $39-$59. Northern Quest Resort & Casino, 100 N. Hayford Rd. northernquest.com
COMMUNITY
FALL FOR HISTORY: BEDLAM IN THE BITTERROOTS A weekend of events based on Silver Valley history including presentations, panels, bus and home tours and more. Oct. 3-6, times vary. Wallace, Idaho. wallaceid.fun
HAUNTED MINE TOUR A haunted tour of the Crystal Gold Mine. Call to reserve your spot. Thu-Sat from 6-10 pm through Oct. 31. $10-$20. Crystal Gold Mine & RV Park, 51931 Silver Valley Rd. goldmine-idaho.com
SUCCULENT PUMPKIN PLANTER
CLASS Create a stunning and long-lasting pumpkin succulent planter. Oct. 3, 5:30-7 pm. $45. My Fresh Basket, 1030 W. Summit Pkwy. myfreshspokane.com
TAROT & DIVINATION MEETUP A monthly meetup of local tarot practitioners and divination enthusiasts showing off new decks, techniques, tools and socializing. Every first Thursday from 5:30-7:30 pm. Free. Lunarium, 1925 N. Monroe St. lunariumspokane.com
FALL FESTIVAL OF HOMES The annual event is the largest new home construction showcase in the Inland Northwest, featuring 19 homes from Spokanearea builders located in neighborhoods throughout the greater Spokane area. Oct. 4-6 from 10 am-5 pm. Free. fallfestivalofhomes.com
THE GREAT PUMPKIN FEST This event features a pumpkin patch with thousands to choose from, live music, food, raffles, face paining and a petting zoo. Proceeds benefit Project ID. Fri-Sun from noon-10 pm through Oct. 13. Free. Brick West Brewing Co., 1318 W. First. brickwestbrewingco.com/pumpkin
SCARYWOOD HAUNTED NIGHTS
Scarywood is full of roaming monsters, with five haunted attractions, 10 scare zones and the chance to ride most of Silverwood’s signature rides in the dark. Fri-Sat from 7 pm-midnight through Nov. 2. Not recommended for children under age 13. $54-$62. Silverwood Theme Park, 27843 U.S. 95. scarywoodhaunt.com
AMERICAN REVOLUTION EXPERI -
ENCE A pop-up exhibition including display panels and interactive digital kiosks that explore the history of the American Revolution. Oct. 5-27; Wed, Fri and Sat from 11 am-4 pm. $4-$7. Spokane Valley Heritage Museum, 12114 E. Sprague. spokanevalleymuseum.com
CHEWELAH FALL FEST A community festival featuring live music, a car show, lumberjack activities, a beer garden, food and more. Oct. 5, 10 am-9 pm. Free. Chewelah. cityofchewelah.org
CUSTER’S 49TH ANNUAL FALL AN -
TIQUE & VINTAGE SHOW A marketplace featuring antique, vintage and retro goods. Oct. 5-6; Sat from 10 am-6 pm, Sun from 10 am-4 pm. $8-$10. Spokane County Fair & Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. custershows.com
FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL This annual festival features a giant corn maze, live music, pumpkin patches and
much more. Sat-Sun from 10 am-6 pm through Oct. 27. Free. Beck’s Harvest House, 9919 E. Greenbluff Rd. becksharvesthouse.com (509-238-6970)
HALLOWEEN X-SPO A Halloweenthemed convention featuring special guests from horror movies and vendors selling wares. Oct. 5, 10 am-6 pm and Oct. 6, 10 am-4 pm. $15-$35. Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. halloweenxspo.com
HISTORIC HOME TOURS A tour of three historic homes in the Dayton area. Tickets can be purchased on the day of the event. Oct. 5, 1-4 pm. $20-$25. Dayton Historic Depot, 222 E. Commercial Ave. daytonhistoricdepot.org
HOLISTIC FESTIVAL Over 50 booths providing organic and natural products and remedies, body care, and pain relief. The festival also features panels and demonstrations. Oct. 5, 10 am-5 pm. $6. CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Pl. holisticfestivals.com (509-468-9001)
SOUK! An Arabian market festival with Middle Eastern food and entertainment. Oct. 5. Free. Mukogawa Institute, 4000 W. Randolph Rd. mwfi.edu
SPOKANE ARCHAEOLOGY DAY Join area archaeologists for an informative day. Learn how to conduct an archaeological survey or a mock excavation, practice zooarchaeology by studying animal bones and more. Oct. 5, 10 am-3 pm. Free. Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, 2316 W. First. archaeologyinwashington.com
SPOKANE RENAISSANCE FAIRE A traditional renaissance festival featuring jousting, vendors, food and more. Oct. 5-6, 10 am. $15-$35. Lazy K Ranch, 5906 E. Woodard. spokanerenfaire.com
WSECU FALL FEST Celebrate fall with a pumpkin patch, beer garden, live music, a petting zoo, artisan vendors, horse and carriage rides and more. Oct. 5. Free. Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St. riverfrontspokane.org
IDENTIFYING INDICATIONS FOR & ADMINISTERING NALOXONE Health professionals provide basic facts about Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and Narcan, the characteristics of an opioid overdose and a demo of how to use intranasal naloxone to treat an opioid overdose. Oct. 7, 6-7 pm. Free. Deer Park Library, 208 Forest. scld.org
SPOOKY UPCYCLE WORKSHOP Make or repurpose costumes, create spooky decor or swap old costumes to save the environment. RSVP required. Oct. 10, 5 pm. Free. Art Salvage Spokane, 610 E. North Foothills. artsalvagespokane.com
CELEBRATING VENEZUELA Celebrate Venezuelan traditions and culture, with a glimpse into the country’s heritage and way of life with food and music. Oct. 11, 5-8 pm. Free. Manito Park, 1800 S. Grand. latinosenspokane.org
NEW LEAF FALL FESTIVAL Featuring local vendors, artisans, pony rides, food and music. Oct. 11-13; Fri-Sat from 9 am-5 pm, Sun from 10 am-4 pm. Free. New Leaf Nursery, 12655 N. Government Way. newleadnurseryhayden.com
FILM
STAFF PICKS: THE TALENTED MR. RIPLEY In 1950s New York, a young underachiever is sent to Italy to retrieve a rich and spoiled playboy. Oct. 3, 7-9 pm. $8. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main. kenworthy.org
EVENTS | CALENDAR
THE SUBSTANCE A fading celebrity decides to use a black-market drug, a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself. Oct. 4-5, 7-9 pm and Oct. 6, 3-5 pm. $8. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org (208-882-4127)
MET LIVE IN HD: LES CONTES
D’HOFFMANN An opera based on three short stories by E.T.A. Hoffmann, the protagonist of the libretto. Oct. 5, 10 am-2 pm. $20. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org (208-882-4127)
SEAHAWKS GAMES SCREENINGS
Watch the Seahawks play on the big screen, all season long. Oct. 6, 1:25 pm Free. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.org (509-327-1050)
FAITH, FILM, AND PHILOSOPHY SERIES: SPIRITUAL FILM THEMES IN 2024
Discussions centered around spiritual themes in popular modern TV shows and movies. Several scholars present original work surrounding the topic. Oct. 7-9 and 11, 7-9:30 pm. Free. Gonzaga University, 502 E. Boone Ave. gonzaga.edu/ffp2024
SENSORY RELAXED MOVIE SCREENINGS Screenings with slightly brighter lights, lowered volume and designated areas to move around, dance, walk or sit during the movie. Second Tuesdays (PG 13) at 6:30 pm, second Saturdays (all ages) at 11:30 am. $5. Garland Theater, 924 W. Garland Ave. garlandtheater.org
FOOD & DRINK
LONG SHADOWS WINE DINNER A dinner featuring six courses paired with Long Shadows Vintners Washington wines. Oct. 3, 5 pm. $199. Lorèn, 908 N. Howard St. lorenbistro.com
HUMBLE ABODE BEER MAKERS DINNER A five-course plated dinner by Chef Steven Swanson. Each course is paired with a Humble Abode beer presented by beer maker Jeff Domenichelli. Oct. 4, 7-9 pm. $75. Fête, 120 N. Stevens St. nectarcateringandevents.com
WHISKEY BARREL WEEKEND The Coeur d’Alene Resort partners with Maker’s Mark to celebrate the craftsmanship of whiskey through custom blends, tasting events, a golf match and more. Oct. 4, 6-8 pm and Oct. 5, 9:30 am-9 pm. The Coeur d’Alene Resort, 115 S. Second. cdaresort.com (208-765-4000)
SPOKANE ZOMBIE CRAWL 2024 Dress as a zombie or survivor and make your way through downtown Spokane and complete a scavenger hunt at each bar.
Starts at Q Lounge. Oct. 5, 4-11 pm. $20$30. spokanezombiecrawl.com
OKTOBERFEST An annual celebration featuring a selection of Square Wheel Brewery Beers and a special menu. Oct. 5-6, 12-5 pm. Arbor Crest Wine Cellars, 4705 N. Fruit Hill Rd. arborcrest.com
BOTTOMLESS(ISH) MIMOSA BRUNCH
SERIES A six-week buffet brunch series curated by Chef Steven and team with various breakfast and lunch items. Oct. 6-Nov. 24, Sundays at 10 am and noon. $25. Fête - A Nectar Co, 120 N. Stevens St. nectarcateringandevents.com
OKTOBERFEST NIGHT OUT Kristi Fountain demonstrates how to make German cheese spaetzle with sauerkraut and bratwurst. Oct. 8, 5:45-8:15 pm. $85. The Kitchen Engine, 621 W. Mallon Ave. thekitchenengine.com (509-328-3335)
FALL COOKIE DECORATING In this hands-on class learn how to create beautiful autumn designs with Jamie of Three Birdies Bakery. Oct. 9, 5:45-8:15 pm. $85. The Kitchen Engine, 621 W. Mallon Ave. thekitchenengine.com
DRINK FRESH: A CELEBRATION OF FRESH HOP BEER Enjoy fresh hop beers from Lumberbeard and breweries across the state. Oct. 11-12, 11:30 am-9 pm. Lumberbeard Brewing, 25 E. Third Ave. lumberbeardbrewing.com (509-381-5142)
MUSIC
BIG BING THEORY Gonzaga’s a cappella group performs for fall family weekend. Oct. 4, 7-8:30 pm. Free. Gonzaga Cataldo Hall, Addison & Sharp. gonzaga.edu
GABE LAPANO The pianist plays Sinatra, Crosby and more. Fridays from 6-9 pm through Dec. 28. Churchill’s Steakhouse, 165 S. Post St. churchillssteakhouse.com
OKTUBAFEST: CHRIS DICKEY Chris Dickey’s faculty recital featuring new music for tuba and euphonium by JaKobe Henry, Cait Nishimura, Barbara York, James Naigus, and a premiere. Oct. 4, 7:30 pm. Free. Bryan Hall Theatre (WSU), 605 Veterans Way. music.wsu.edu
CELEBRATING OUR HOMELANDS A symphony concert featuring patriotic and Olympic favorites. Oct. 5. $15-$35. Schuler Performing Arts Center, 880 W. Garden Ave. cdasymphony.org
GONZAGA FALL FAMILY WEEKEND
WELCOME CONCERT The first concert of the year featuring Gonzaga’s choral ensembles and more. Oct. 5, 7:30 pm. $10-$15. Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, 211 E. Desmet Ave. gonzaga.edu/ music (509-313-4776)
SPOKANE JAZZ ORCHESTRA: CLAS-
SICAL MEETS JAZZ The season’s opening concert highlights the creative and interesting ways in which classical music has been combined with jazz. Oct. 5, 7:30 pm. $32-$42. Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague Ave. bingcrosbytheater.com
SPOKANE SYMPHONY MASTERWORKS 2: SCOTLAND THE BRAVE! The Symphony, along with Julia Pyke, perform Felix Mendelssohn’s Third Symphony and Glisk by Aileen Sweeney. Oct. 5, 7:30 pm and Oct. 6, 3 pm. The Fox Theater, 1001 W. Sprague Ave. spokanesymphony.org
HER FAVORITE THINGS A concert celebration dedicated to a cherished Washington Idaho Symphony patron, Beatriz Schweitzer. The selections feature vibrant rhythms and soulful music that celebrate Beatriz’s Mexican heritage. Oct. 6, 3 pm. $11-$27. University of Idaho Administration Building, 851 Campus Dr. wa-idsymphony.org (888-884-3246)
MUSIC FOR OBSERVATIONS A threepart music series pairing electronic music with the Jewett Observatory’s open viewings of the night sky. Oct. 12, 9 pm. Free. WSU Jewett Observatory, Jewett Observatory. jasoneanderson.net
SPORTS & OUTDOORS
OPEN PLAY PICKLEBALL Play pickleball at the HUB. Every week, Mon-Thu from 10 am-noon or 1-3 pm. $5.50-$7. HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave. hubsportscenter.org (509-927-0602)
RELENTLESS WRESTLING 30: PINNACLE Live professional wrestling featuring local and worldwide talent. Oct. 4, 7 pm. $59-$79. Northern Quest, 100 N. Hayford Rd. northernquest.com
SPOKANE CHIEFS VS. KELOWNA
ROCKETS Regular season game. Promo schedule TBA. Oct. 4, 7:05 pm. Spokane Arena, 720 W. Mallon. spokanechiefs.com
THE FREEDOM 5K A race raising awareness and funds for trafficking survivors. Oct. 5, 9 am-noon. $20-$70. Riverstone Park, 1800 Tilford Ln. safeharborforfreedom.com (208-514-2971)
SPOKANE CHIEFS VS. SEATTLE THUNDERBIRDS Regular season game. Promo schedule TBA. Oct. 5, 6:05 pm. Spokane Arena, 720 W. Mallon. spokanechiefs.com
SPOKANE RIVER ROLL A 7-mile roll on the Centennial Trail in Spokane. Bring your bike, roller skates, scooter or other human-powered wheels. Oct. 5, 1-4 pm. Free. No-Li Brewhouse, 1003 E. Trent Ave.
350spokane.org (509-242-2739)
TURNBULL ANNUAL COMMUNITY TREE
PLANTING Volunteers are invited to help with trail maintenance and tree planting. RSVP at link. Oct. 5, 9 am-1 pm. Free. Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, 26010 S. Smith Rd. fws.gov/refuge/turnbull
BELLY DANCE FITNESS Learn how to belly dance with Bhangra/Bollywood dance teacher Sue. Wear workout clothing and come for a fun and invigorating dance. No experience necessary. Oct. 6, 2:30 pm. Free. Shadle Library, 2111 W. Wellesley Ave. spokanelibrary.org
GENTLE FLOW YOGA Reduce stress and build resilience with a breath practice, gentle stretching and short holds. Oct. 6, 1 pm. Free. Shadle Library, 2111 W. Wellesley Ave. spokanelibrary.org
GENTLE FLOW YOGA Join Katherine from Inclusion Wellness Community for a gentle yoga practice for every skill level. Wear loose clothing, bring a mat and come prepared for gentle exercise. Oct. 7, 12-1 pm. Free. Liberty Park Library, 402 S. Pittsburgh St. spokanelibrary.org
ALL ELITE WRESTLING: DYNAMITE –TITLE TUESDAY Live tapings of AEW TV programs Dynamite and Rampage. Oct. 8, 5:30 pm. $20-$85. Spokane Arena, 720 W. Mallon Ave. spokanearena.com
CONQUEST OF THE CAGE A mixed-martial arts competition. Oct. 10, 7 pm. $60$75. Northern Quest Resort & Casino, 100 N. Hayford Rd. northernquest.com
SPOKANE VELOCITY VS. GREENVILLE TRIUMPH SC Regular season game. Oct. 12, 6 pm. $21-$41. ONE Spokane Stadium, 501 W. Gardner. spokanevelocityfc.com
THEATER & DANCE
FUNNY GIRL A musical based on the life and career of comedian and Broadway star Fanny Brice, featuring her stormy relationship with entrepreneur and gambler Nick Arnstein. Wed-Sat at 7:30 pm, Sat also at 2 pm, Sun at 1 pm and 6:30 pm through Oct. 6. First Interstate Center for the Arts, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. broadwayspokane.com (509-279-7000)
JEKYLL & HYDE Dr. Henry Jekyll is driven to find a chemical breakthrough that can solve mankind’s most challenging medical dilemmas. He makes himself the subject of his own experimental treatments, unleashing his inner demons. Thu-Sat at 7:30 pm, Sun at 2 pm through Oct. 6. $27-$30. Lake City Playhouse, 1320 E. Garden Ave. lakecityplayhouse.org
SHIBARI IS THE WAY: BOUND BABES A night of performances focusing on bondage and shibari. Oct. 3, 7 pm. Free. The Chameleon, 1801 W. Sunset Blvd. chameleonspokane.com
60X60 An annual concert featuring 60 dance works, each running 60 seconds long. All music is composed by Gonzaga students or faculty and the choreography is created by student, faculty and alumni. Oct. 4, 6-7 pm. $8-$10. Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center, 211 E. Desmet Ave. gonzaga.edu/dance (509-313-4776)
INTO THE WOODS A baker and his wife, wish to have a child, when they learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Oct. 4-13; Fri-Sat at 7:30 pm, Sat-Sun at 2 pm. $23-$29. Kroc Center, 1765 W. Golf Course Rd. aspirecda.com (208-667-1865)
MACBETH A Scottish general receives a prophecy from a trio of witches that one day he’ll become king. Consumed by ambition and spurred to action by his wife, Macbeth murders King Duncan and takes the throne. Oct. 4-27; Thu-Sat at 7 pm, Sun at 2 pm. $25-$30. Stage Left Theater, 108 W. Third. stagelefttheater.org
MANDATE FOR MURDER A political satire play about a murder that occurs during a mayoral candidate’s surprise party on election night. Dinner served at 6:30 pm. Oct. 4-19; Fri-Sat at 6:30 pm. $12-$35. Northwoods Performing Arts Center, 3645 N. SR 211. northwoodsperformingarts.com
THE ONE AND ONLY SARAH STONELY Meet Sarah, an average 12-year-old girl, as she fights to save Earth after being “chosen” by a mysterious alien race to participate in the Great Galactic Games of Greatness. Oct. 4-6, times vary. $12-$16. Gonzaga University Magnuson Theatre, 502 E. Boone Ave. gonzaga.edu/theatre
LATE NITE CATECHISM The irrepressible Sister teaches an adult catechism class to a roomful of “students” (the audience). Over the course of the play, Sister goes from benevolent instructor, rewarding the students for correct answers to authoritative drill sergeant. Oct. 6, 7 pm. Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague. bingcrosbytheater.com
GRAND KYIV BALLET: DON QUIXOTE A ballet filled with fiery Spanish temperament and technically difficult choreography showcasing artists performing challenging tricks including the audience’s favorite 32 fouettés. Oct. 7, 7 pm. $40-$55. The Kenworthy, 508 S. Main St. kenworthy.org (208-882-4127)
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Imagine a world without ART.
gross.
Support the local arts.
EVENTS | CALENDAR
AN EVENING WITH FRANK LEGEND A staged reading of a new play by Damon Falke. After years of painting, Frank’s work has finally received critical attention. Now, he must meet a public. Michelle’s candor about her own efforts to become an artist may open him. Oct. 9, 7-9 pm. Free. Jundt Art Museum, 200 E. Desmet Ave. gonzaga.edu/jundt
VISUAL ARTS
DONNA KULIBERT Donna Kulibert creates carved ceramic pieces. Daily from 11 am-7 pm through Oct. 27, 11 am-7 pm. Free. Pottery Place Plus, 203 N. Washington St. potteryplaceplus.com
MASK A group show featuring depictions of masks of all kinds from several local artists. Daily from 11 am-7 pm through Oct. 26, 11 am-7 pm. Free. Liberty Building, 203 N. Washington St. spokanelibertybuilding.com
SALLY MACHLIS & DELPHINE KEIM
Sally Machlis and Delphine Keim address social, political and environmental issues through large mixed media works on paper and installations. MonThu from 10 am-4 pm, Fri from 10 am2:30 pm through Nov. 1. Free. Boswell Corner Gallery at NIC, 1000 W. Garden Ave., Building 22. nic.edu/cornergallery
SARAH KNOBEL: WHAT REMAINS
HEARTBREAKER FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK Local artist Heather March performs a live painting demonstration and the shop offers flash tattoo specials from $80. Oct. 4, 1-8 pm. Free. Heartbreaker Tattoo & Artist Co-op, 830 W. Sprague. heartbreakerspokane.com
CHICO SUNDOWN: WESTERN WANDERINGS A nostalgic journey through the heart of the American West through vibrant and evocative paintings. Oct. 4-26, Mon-Sat from 10 am-5 pm. Free. Pend Oreille Arts Council Gallery, 313 N. Second Ave. artinsandpoint.org
INTERNATIONAL SURREALISM IN AMERICA Seventeen international artists are featured in this surrelist showcase including Spokane artists Roch Fautch and Dara Debast, along with Portugese artist Santiago Ribeiro. Fridays from 5-9 pm through Oct. 5. Free. Shotgun Studios, 1625 W. Water Ave. shotgunstudiosspokane.com
JOHN NOBLE RETROSPECTIVE A collection of artworks by longtime Spokanite John Noble including surreal animal paintings, drawings and mixed media. Oct. 4-25, Mon-Fri from 10 am-5 pm. Free. Spokane Art School, 503 E. Second Ave. spokaneartschool.net
WORDS
ILLUMINATIONS: WITCHES This month’s theme is “Witches” and showcases a 1665 edition of The Discover of Witchcraft, Francisco de Goya’s “Caprichos” etchings, and much more. Participants are welcome to drop in at any time throughout the hour. Oct. 3, 11 am-noon. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main Ave. spokanelibrary.org
3 MINUTE MIC Readers may share up to three minutes worth of poetry. Sign ups at 6:30 pm. Oct. 4, 7-8:30 pm. Free. Auntie’s Bookstore, 402 W. Main Ave. auntiesbooks.com (509-838-0206)
ADRIANA JANOVICH: UNIQUE EATS AND EATERIES OF SPOKANE Janovich reads from and discusses her book in which she explores 80 of Spokane’s eateries and what makes them great. Oct. 5, 4-5 pm. Free. South Hill Library, 3324 S. Perry. spokanelibrary.org
UN-AMERICAN ACTIVITIES: THE BLACKLIST ERA AND HOLLYWOOD This presentation, illustrated with film clips, tells the stories from Hollywood’s heartbreaking and scandalous era, and how notables such as Humphrey Bogart, Elia Kazan, and Charlie Chaplin were swept up in the frenzy. Oct. 5, 2 pm. Free. Online, humanities.org
TRANSPARENT Through evocative imagery, artist Sarah Knobel crafts liminal spaces, inviting viewers to contemplate the enigmatic nature of everyday objects and our waste. Oct. 3-Nov. 8, MonFri from 9 am-5 pm. Free. EWU Gallery of Art, 140 Art Building. ewu.edu/ cahss/gallery (509-359-2494)
MARY FARRELL Pacific Northwest artist Mary Farrell showcases her art. Oct. 4-28, daily from 11 am-6 pm. Free. Entropy, 101 N. Stevens St. explodingstars. com (509-414-3226)
ORBITING MISFITS Over 75 local and regional artists showcase art. Oct. 4-25, Wed-Sat from 11 am-5 pm through Oct. 25. $10. New Moon Art Gallery, 1326 E. Sprague Ave. manicmoonandmore.com
A WOMAN’S PLACE: ARTISTS CONFRONT DOMESTICITY Dr. Meredith Shimizu, Professor of Art History at Whitworth University, delves into the significance of art movements, key artists, and provide an understanding of art’s impact on society and history. Oct. 6, 2 pm. $10. The MAC, 2316 W. First Ave. northwestmuseum.org
TERRAIN 15 An annual, one-night only, juried multimedia art and music event featuring all-local art. Preview night (Oct. 3) is a ticketed event, the main event (Oct. 4) is free. Takes place at 314 W. Riverside Ave. in downtown Spokane. Oct. 3, 6-9 pm and Oct. 4, 5 pmmidnight. Free. terrainspokane.com
AARON SMITH & GATIEH NACARIO
Local artists Aaron Smith and Gatieh Nacario display paintings. Oct. 4-26, Thu-Sat from 11 am-4 pm. Free. Avenue West Gallery, 907 W. Boone Ave. avenuewestgallery.com (509-838-4999)
ANN PATTERSON Ann Patterson showcases her art. Oct. 4-26, Fri-Sat from 12-8 pm. Free. Saranac Art Projects, 25 W. Main Ave. sapgallery.com
ARCHIE BRAY RESIDENT SHOW A showcase of established and emerging contemporary ceramic artists from the Archie Bray Foundation in Montana. Oct. 4-25, by appointment. Free. KolvaSullivan Gallery, 115 S. Adams St. kolvasullivangallery.com (509-458-5517)
CHRIS KELSEY, MARK MOORE & GINA
FREUEN Works by studio owners Mark Moore and Chris Kelsey and exhibiting partner Gina Freuen. Oct. 4-25; Wed-Fri from 11 am-5 pm. Free. Trackside Studio, 115 S. Adams St. tracksidestudio.net
COZETTE PHILLIPS: THE FIX Engaging within the context of modern ecological consciousness, the artworks are reactions to tensions between nature and human intervention. Oct. 4-26; Thu-Sat from 4-7 pm. Free. Terrain Gallery, 628 N. Monroe. terrainspokane.com
FIRST FRIDAY Art galleries and businesses across downtown Spokane and beyond host monthly receptions to showcase new displays of art. Oct. 4 from 5-8 pm. Free. Details at firstfridayspokane.org
RALPH TEW & JONI MICHELS Ralph Tew displays acrylic pours and Joni Michels showcases art inspired by nature. Oct. 4-31, daily from 6 am-6 pm. Free. Indaba Coffee Roasters, 518 W. Riverside Ave. rrafaofspokane.com
24 HOUR COMIC CHALLENGE On the first Saturday of October, comic artists around the world challenge themselves to draw a 24-page comic from scratch. Oct. 5, 3-5 pm. Free. Lunarium, 1925 N. Monroe St. lunariumspokane.com
DINNER WITH AN ARTIST & CHEF: CHRIS GRUBB & ADAM HEGSTED An eight-course dinner featuring wine pairings, an artist talk and an art exhibit. Oct. 5, 6 pm. $125. Honey Eatery and Social Club, 317 Sherman Ave. emergecda.com (208-930-1514)
SCRATCHING THE SURFACE A group show featuring artists Doug Fluckiger, Ernest Lothar, Tom Jaszczak and Pamela Caughey. Oct. 5-27, Wed-Sun from 11 am-6 pm. Free. The Art Spirit Gallery, 415 Sherman. theartspiritgallery.com
SPOKANE CARVER’S ASSOCIATION: ARTISTRY IN WOOD A juried show featuring wood crafts, raffles, demos and more. Oct. 5-6; Sat from 10 am-5 pm, Sun from noon-4 pm. Free. The Hive, 2904 E. Sprague. spokanecarvers.com
SPOOOOK-ANE GHOST PAINTING Add your own poltergeists to a historic photo of Spokane with Megan Perkins. Registration required. Oct. 6, 2-3 pm. Free. Spokane Valley Library, 22 N. Herald Rd. scld.org (509-893-8400)
FRANKENSTEIN: PENETRATING THE SECRETS OF NATURE A traveling exhibit featuring anatomical drawings from the National Library of Medicine that may have inspired Mary Shelley while writing Frankenstein. Oct. 7-Nov. 16. Free. Central Library, 906 W. Main. nlm.nih.gov/exhibition/frankenstein
JOSEPH PEARCE: THE CHRISTIANITY OF THE LORD OF THE RINGS Pearce is one of the world’s leading experts on the lives and works of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterton, Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn and Oscar Wilde. Oct. 7, 7-9 pm. Free. Whitworth University, 300 W. Hawthorne Rd. whitworth.edu
BROKEN MIC A weekly open mic reading series. Wednesdays at 6:30 pm; sign-ups at 6 pm. Free. Neato Burrito, 827 W. First Ave. bit.ly/2ZAbugD
HISTORY HOUR: THE HISTORY OF DEATH IN AMERICA Funeral director and history enthusiast Lance Cox shares the history of how death has been handled from before the civil war until today. Oct. 9, 5:30 pm. Free. Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave. cdalibrary.org
KINDERGARTEN COUNTDOWN STORYTIME A weekly program of stories, music, rhymes and interactive fun that help promote essential social-emotional, motor, language, literacy and math skills kids need to thrive in school. Ages 3-5. Wednesdays from 10-11 am. Free. Hillyard Library, 4110 N. Cook St. spokanelibrary.org (509-444-5300)
POETRY AFTER DARK EWU MFA students lead discussions about craft elements, style and form in poetry. Second and Fourth Wednesdays of every month, 7-8 pm. Free. Spark Central, 1214 W. Summit Pkwy. spark-central.org (509-279-0299)
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME PLAY & LEARN Share books, songs and fun. After storytime, spend some time in open play with learning activities. Every Wednesday from 10-11 am. Free. South Hill Library, 3324 S. Perry St. spokanelibrary.org (444-5331) n
ANALYSIS
Federal Conundrum
Cannabis
is treated differently than anything else when it comes to commerce
BY WILL MAUPIN
Cannabis has been legal in Washington for more than a decade, but federal policy is still getting in the way.
This past week, the National Academy of Sciences published a huge paper about cannabis policy, and it highlighted an issue that is often overlooked. The legality of cannabis has been delegated to the state level. The federal government has taken a back seat when it comes to cannabis, and when it comes to policy it’s kind of getting in the way.
Weed is legal in roughly half of the United States, but weed is not legal according to the federal government of the United States. And that is a problem.
Recreational weed has been sold in Washington since 2014. Two years later, Oregon followed suit.
But almost a decade later, Washington and Oregon can’t share, despite the fact that they’ve spent nearly 10 years building their own legal cannabis industries with nothing separating them but the Columbia River.
No matter how you feel about cannabis, you can probably agree that the United States is doing a bad job regulating it.
You can’t take weed across the Columbia from Washington into Oregon, and you can’t bring weed from Portland back to Spokane. It’s legal in both places, but taking cannabis from one to the other is illegal.
And that doesn’t make any sense at all.
Oregon and Washington are different states, so federal laws apply, but it makes no sense. Cannabis is legal in both, but crossing the state line with it is a crime.
The study that came out last week highlighted that. It pointed out that each state is doing its own thing, and the federal government has fallen well behind.
The United States, under three different presidents dating back to the Obama administration, has allowed individual states to legalize cannabis. But until the federal government legalizes cannabis, interstate commerce of the products will continue to be a pain in the ass.
I can buy a nice Willamette Valley wine in Oregon and bring it into Washington, but I can’t do the same with weed.
For now, the United States aren’t so much united as they are states when it comes to cannabis. Even where it is legal, each state remains on its own. There is nothing united about that policy. n
Even though cannabis is legal in Washington and Oregon, you can’t take it across the Columbia River or state borders.
GREEN ZONE
NOTE TO READERS
Be aware of the differences in the law between Idaho and Washington. It is illegal to possess, sell or transport cannabis in the State of Idaho. Possessing up to an ounce is a misdemeanor and can get you a year in jail and up to a $1,000 fine; more than three ounces is a felony that can carry a fiveyear sentence and fine of up to $10,000. Transporting marijuana across state lines, like from Washington into Idaho, is a felony under federal law.
