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LL CARES CLUB MAKES IMPACT PAGE 24
FISRT CHALK WALK SUCCESS PAGE 31
2 • OCTOBER 2020
The Splash
DOCKSIDE Climbing Upward –
Schmitt latches on to city engineer role By Craig Howard Splash Contributing Editor
When he was working as the city engineer and public works director in Woodland Park, Colorado, Ben Schmitt would occasionally hop aboard a backhoe or tackle a section of asphalt with a sturdy rake. While the tasks may not have necessarily fallen under Schmitt’s job duties, the hands-on approach earned him the respect of colleagues in the office and in the field – even if it meant getting his dress pants a little scuffed now and then. Schmitt’s diverse skill set can be traced back to his family’s cattle farm in Pueblo, Colorado where his father made sure opportunities to foster a reliable work ethic were plentiful. Schmitt learned to operate a backhoe and trencher early in his youth and regularly took on rigorous chores like installing pipeline and constructing fences. When the backhoe broke one day, his dad said it would need to be welded back together. “That’s when I learned to weld,” Schmitt said. “I appreciated the trust he had in me and the freedom that came along with it. I learned I could build anything I wanted. It sparked a lot of creativity and a good work ethic.” Schmitt grew up the oldest of three kids. His dad worked full time as a surgeon but kept 11,000 acres in Pueblo, about an hour from the family’s home in Colorado Springs. The farm specialized in organic beef with an emphasis on rotational grazing. Schmitt developed a love of the outdoors early whether it was white water rafting or kayaking. He also became an elite climber. As a senior in high school, he qualified for the USA Climbing Team and went on to compete briefly on the international stage. Schmitt’s interest in climbing influenced his career aspirations for a time. At one point, he had a goal of opening his own climbing gym.
Schmitt enrolled at Colorado University-Boulder after high school, focusing on his strength in physics. He eventually transferred to Colorado University-Colorado Springs where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering. Jobs were scarce in Schmitt’s field when he exited with his diploma in 2013. He would land in North Dakota, working for an oil and gas company. The money was good but Schmitt knew it wasn’t the best fit for his future. He caught a break after a year when Colorado Springs Utilities recruited him as a project engineer. The role would tap into Schmitt’s mechanical and prototyping expertise while providing him with valuable experience in areas like CAD design, road projects and construction. After four years, Schmitt accepted a job with Woodland Park, a city close to the size of Liberty Lake. His responsibilities would form a layered foundation and add to his resume in public works and engineering. Along the way, he earned his engineering
license in civil construction. “I’ve always like public sector work,” Schmitt says. “You can create lasting good by solving problems within a limited budget.” Schmitt’s tenure in Woodland Park would pave the way for an opportunity in Liberty Lake this summer. After transitioning from Colorado to accept a job with J-U-B Engineers in Coeur d’Alene, Schmitt saw the posting for the city engineer position in Spokane County’s easternmost jurisdiction. Only two people – Andrew Staples and Scott Bernhard – have held the role since Liberty Lake incorporated in 2001. Schmitt and his wife Emily – also a Colorado native – made the decision to relocate to the Inland Northwest in hopes of securing similar access to the great outdoors without the crowding that has come to characterize their home state. The couple are proud parents of two young children. Schmitt impressed in interviews and joined the Liberty Lake roster in early July. As with his predecessors,
Photo by Craig Howard Ben Schmitt became only the third city engineer in the history of incorporated Liberty Lake in early July. The Colorado native brings a background in mechanical engjneering, civil construction and pubic works.
he wears multiple hats, working on everything from major agreements with state agencies to on-site inspections, development reviews, addressing citizen concerns and more. “I feel like I have a lot to learn each day,” Schmitt says. “I’m just grateful to be part of such a great team here.” Q: You grew up with more responsibility than the average kid, working on your family's cattle ranch. What lessons did you learn that have carried over into your adult life and career? A: On the ranch, I was able to develop a deep understanding of what it means to build things correctly, even when there is no one there to inspect or approve your work. If I didn’t install or energize a fence correctly or clean and glue a piece of water pipe the right way, it would always come back to haunt me – usually at the worst possible time, when cattle got out or we had to dig up a line at the end of a long work day. The culture of “working hard” often revolves around long hours or difficult physical labor but I learned quickly that working hard really means training your mind to think towards the future and truly understanding every aspect of the design of the project you are working on. I have learned that my true value as an engineer has been to see the big picture and understand how specific details fit into the overall goal of a project. Q: Beyond the basic physical benefits, how has being an avid climber impacted who you are? A: My favorite part of climbing is that it has taken me to some really incredible places and taught me a lot about how to be calm under pressure during high consequence problem solving. I have learned how to be persistent and see the long-term rewards of working hard towards a goal, as some of my climbing goals have taken me years to learn the moves and develop the fitness to climb a specific route. My primary driver has been establishing first ascents and there is something really special about finding a new line no one has climbed before, installing the hardware and cleaning the route See SCHMITT, Page 5
OCTOBER 2020 • 3
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One day, Elizabeth Pauley would like to be a psychiatrist. The Central Valley senior says participating in community service projects has been a key in her career aspiration. “I’ve learned how much I enjoy helping people,” she said. Pauley served as president of CV’s National Honor Society chapter last year and has been part of the Cyber Patriot Club for the past three years. She is an AP Distinguished Scholar and maintains a 4.0 grade point average. Pauley attends St. Mary’s Parish in Spokane Valley and is a volunteer with the St. Vincent DePaul Society that provides emergency assistance to less-fortunate residents. She has played the piano for the past 11 years and has placed second and third at the Spokane Piano Competition with her sister. She has also competed in tennis at CV for the past three years.
Alex Wright was part of an exceptional season for a Central Valley boys’ cross country team in 2019 as the Bears finished fourth at state after losing six of its top seven runners from the year before. Wright placed in the top 25 at state with a personal record of 15 minutes, 51 seconds in the 5K (3.1-mile) race, besting his previous PR of 16:03 at the regional meet. The senior from Liberty Lake has participated in cross country for three years, earning two letters. In track, Wright has personal bests in the mile of 4:23 and 9:39 in the 2-mile. He qualified for districts in both as a sophomore. Wright maintains a 3.85 grade point average and volunteers at Eastpoint Church where he attends. This summer Wright and his teammates pitched in at the Spokane Valley Partners Food Bank.
Laura Frank did not wait long to make an impact in Liberty Lake after moving here in 2006. The longtime board member with Friends of Pavillion Park coordinated the Holiday Ball for years, the key fundraiser for FOPP’s Summer Festival and Lud Kramer Labor Day Concert. She was the catalyst in adding Montana Shakespeare in the Park to the festival schedule. Frank is also an inaugural member of the city of Liberty Lake’s Parks and Arts Commission, a group that helps the city find direction in public art and recreation. The Michigan native is a graduate of Michigan Technological University where she majored in mechanical engineering. She currently works part time at Kaiser Aluminum as a mechanical project engineer and serves on a committee that coordinates support for nonprofits. Laura and her husband Joe are proud parents of three kids.
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SCHMITT
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Continued from page 2 in the most sustainable and safe way and developing the skills and training the strength to see the route to completion. Q: You came out of college into a job market still feeling the effects of the Great Recession. You began your most recent job a few months into a worldwide pandemic. Do you see any parallels between the two scenarios? A: The two scenarios are very similar and I have seen the damaging effects it has had on good people who have worked incredibly hard and have fallen on hard times during these markets. The most important thing I have learned is that where you can truly set yourself apart in the job market is not technical skill or your resume but how you empathize with people and if you can understand and predict the emotional decisions people often make, despite empirical data that may say otherwise. We honestly live in the best time in human existence in terms of access to information, so non-traditional learning opportunities are everywhere if you really want to develop a unique skill. I am really inspired to see more and more people breaking away from the “norm” and establishing themselves in better alternative work situations in this new environment. Q: What were some of your impressions of Liberty Lake before you were brought on as the city engineer? A: Liberty Lake always appeared to be an affluent, well maintained and well-planned community. I did resign myself to the fact that if we were going to fit in, I really needed to improve my abysmal golfing skills since it is such a cornerstone of the city’s identity. Q: Why is this a good professional fit for you? A: I really enjoy the unique challenges and intrinsic rewards that working in local government provides. I learn something new every single day and work incredibly hard to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being spent as efficiently as possible. It really is an opportunity to have a meaningful positive impact on the community for decades to come. I love the variety of work that I get to be a part of and the intelligence and work ethic of the staff at the city is inspiring. Q: You are only the third city engineer since Liberty Lake incorporated in 2001. With
delegation not really an option in such a small department, what are some of the challenges involved in this role? How about rewards? A: The most difficult part of the position is that there are so many crucial details that need to be accounted for and that the volume of work this position processes is tremendous. Between managing capital projects, performing inspections, reviewing applications, performing long-term planning, acquiring grant funding and addressing citizen concerns you really must be a jack-of-all-trades to be effective. While it is difficult to delegate, I can rely on my incredible team at the city to cross check my decisions and have some great resources when we need consultant expertise. It is always a balance to do as much as I possibly can myself but understand my limitations and when I need help to ensure projects get done on time. However, the reward is that no position in the engineering world will provide better exposure to all aspects of engineering than this one and it really is amazing to understand in its entirety how the entire system of a city works. Q: Based on projects underway, those in the pipeline and others on the horizon, what do you think Liberty Lake will look like 10 years from now? A: Due to the hard work of my coworkers and predecessors, Liberty Lake will be the most well-planned, functional city in the region. This is primarily due to the well-designed master planning and transportation analysis the city has developed and the engaged citizenry who take an active role in determining how they want their community to develop. I foresee a very pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly city with great access to economic opportunity and community events. Q: Finally, let's say the Inland Northwest and your home state are matched up in a competition to determine the most outstanding region for outdoor recreation in the country. Who wins and why? A: While individual elements of Colorado will always be better – harder climbs, more trails, steeper ski terrain, etc. – the Inland Northwest has the edge just for access. Within an hour of my house I can go to three quality ski resorts (with passes I can still afford for my family), a wealth of hard climbing that will keep me busy for years and multiple surf waves I can boat in after work. And the best part is, most days I will only see a handful of other people, which is the best part of any outdoor experience.
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Introducing the
Safety Awareness Channel
Police Report - August 2020 Splash news sources
Total incidents
544
Traffic Collisions/Hit & Runs / Injury Collisions 14 Citations (Traffic/Criminal/NonCriminal) 65 DUI (Driving Under Influence) 2 Thefts / Vehicle Prowls / Vehicle Theft / Burglaries 27 Malicious Mischief 6
August 2020 Council MapDV / Simple Argument / Assault Assault / Assault w/a Weapon 10 Parking Violations 4 Suspicious Vehicles 21
Least Most
RESIDENTIAL BURGLARY, 08/03/20; Officers responded to the report of a residential alarm located in the 700 block of N Garry Dr. Officers met with the homeowner upon arrival. The homeowner advised the house was about to be placed on the market and the home was empty. Once other units arrived a search of the residence was conducted with no one found inside. DUI, 08/04/20; Officers responded to the report of a possible DUI in the area of E Mission Ave and Pepper Ln. Officers located the described vehicle and contacted the driver. Upon making contact Officers detected the odor of alcohol and requested the driver to exit the vehicle. Field Sobriety Tests were conducted and based on the totality of the circumstances the driver was arrested for DUI. The driver
provided a preliminary breath sample of .199 and was later booked into the Spokane County Jail. THEFT, DRUGS, AND WARRANTS, 08/13/20; Officers responded to the report of a Theft located in the 1500 block of N. Liberty Lake Rd. While responding, Officers were provided updates and a vehicle description. Arriving in the area, Officers located the involved vehicle and the occupants involved in the theft. Both occupants of the vehicle were detained and found to have felony warrants for their arrest. Both were arrested and later booked into the Spokane County Jail. The involved vehicle was impounded at the Liberty Lake Police Department pending the approval of a search warrant. Through this investigation, Officers recovered the stolen property and seized a substantial
circles contain the number of incidents in a given area.
amount of suspect narcotics. case is ongoing.
This
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ORDER VIOLATION, 08/21/20; Officers stopped a vehicle in the area of E Mission Ave and N Madson Rd. Officers had received information earlier in the day that this particular vehicle and male driver were related to a female theft suspect. The involved female was located after stopping the vehicle, drugs were seized, and the male was transported to the Spokane County Jail where he was booked for a DV No Contact order violation. CONGRATULATIONS CHIEF ASMUS FOR AN AMAZING CAREER AND THE START OF A NEW ADVENTURE!!
OCTOBER 2020 • 7
The Splash
The Lookout The Community Corner By Jocelyn Redel Municipal Library Director
Lowdown on the Library Hello from the Liberty Lake Library! Like many other organizations, the library has moved many of its services to contact-free or online versions due to public health directives. Learn more about these services below: Contact-Free Holds Pickup Need to borrow a book, DVD, or audiobook? Liberty Lake Library is offering contact-free holds pickup. Holds Pickup Hours Monday - Friday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Holds Pickup Procedure: 1. Request items online or by phone. 2. Receive notification that items are available. 3. Call 509-232-2510 when you arrive in the library parking lot. 4. Have your library card number ready when you call. 4. After finishing with the phone call, stand behind the holds pickup line on the sidewalk. Need help placing a hold? Library staff are ready to assist. Just give us a call at 509-232-2510. Other Library Services • Are you looking for something to read, but don’t know what to choose? Do you miss browsing the shelves?
City accepting applications for Planning Commissioners The city of Liberty Lake is seeking residents who are interested in serving on the city’s Planning Commission. There is currently one vacancy and three seats with terms set to expire Dec. 31, 2020. The term for the currently vacant position will expire on Dec. 31, 2022. The term for the other three positions will be from Jan. 1, 2021 through Dec. 31, 2023. The Planning Commission meets
Try Library Book Bundles. Request a book bundle online or call 509-2322510. • Borrow eBooks and eAudiobooks from the Washington Anytime Library online or with the Libby app. Need help getting it setup? Just give us a call.
2020 EVENT WINNERS
• Need to print? The library is offering limited printing for patrons to pick-up during holds pickup hours. To get started, email us the document or web link. Regular printing rates apply. • The library is offering online and take-and-go programs. Check out all the programs at http://libertylakewa. evanced.info/signup/. • Liberty Lake Library offers free delivery of materials to city residents unable to visit the library in-person. Call us to learn more about our homebound service. • Our librarians are available to help you find information in print, online and with our reference databases. We can help you research a product, find sources for a report or school project, access business, medical, and legal information or find aARTISTS good book to YOUNG read.
- 9 YEARS OLD • Have 1 questions or need assistance? Library staff are available AMY - 8 Monday-Friday YEARS by phone and email from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
October 2020
2020 EVENT WINNERS
PROFESSIONAL ARTIST PROFESSIONAL ARTIST STACIE BOYER
STACIE BOYER SPONSORED BY LIBERTY LAKE KIWANIS
SPONSORED BY LIBERTY LAKE KIWANIS
YOUNG ARTISTS 1 - 9 YEARS OLD AMY - 8 YEARS
YOUNG ARTISTS 1 - 9 YEARS OLD AMY - 8 YEARS
Phone Number: 509-232-2510
UP & COMING ARTISTS
Email: library@libertylakewa.gov Website:www.libertylakelibrary.com on the second Wednesday of each month and serves as an advisory group to the City Council regarding the overall coordination of land use in the city. The Planning Commission carries out the duties described in the ordinances and codes which include creation and amendments to the city Comprehensive Plan and Development Code. Applications are due by Nov. 15, 2020. The application for the position can be found on the city’s website: www.libertylakewa.gov.Questions may be directed to Director of Planning and Engineering Lisa Key – (509) 755-6708 or by email at lkey@libertylakewa.gov.
UP & COMING ARTISTS 10 - 17 YEARS OLD
10 - 17 YEARS OLD KATE - 15 YEARS
KATE - 15 YEARS
ARTISTS WITH LIFE EXPERIENCE PATCI - 68 YEARS
Thanks to Liberty Lake citizens for their participation in this event.
https://www.facebook.com/libertylakewa • www.libertylakewa.gov
8 • OCTOBER 2020
The Splash
Dental Emergencies • Dental Cleanings • Wisdom Teeth Extractions • Invisalign • Crowns • Oral Surgery • Root Canals Dental Implants • Teeth Whitening • White Fillings • Children’s Dentistry • Dentures and Partial Dentures • Veneers
City sets new record for sales tax revenue By Craig Howard
Splash Contributing Editor
While the effects of COVID-19 on the nationwide economy are impossible to miss, it seems the city of Liberty Lake is skirting the brunt – at least based on sales tax income. At the Sept. 15 City Council meeting, Finance Director RJ Stevenson told the governing board the city had collected $598,000 in August from actual sales in June, setting a new city record for the highest total in a single month. Income received in August over the last three years has averaged $330,000.
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this. So, you have some businesses overachieving and some that are not.” Stevenson reported that the city has spent $95,000 of the $330,000 it was awarded in CARES Act funding by the Department of Commerce to address COVID-related concerns. The remainder needs to be spent by Nov. 30. The breakdown of funds includes $27,000 in assisting businesses to reopen; $62,000 on public facilities and equipment and $5,000 on supplies to citizens. Approximately 4,200 masks have been distributed to Liberty Lake citizens along with 121 gallons of sanitizer among other items. Several local businesses have received tables, chairs and barricades from the city. Stevenson told council on Sept. 15 that Liberty Lake will be receiving another $165,000 in CARES funding based on the $126 million that Gov. Jay Inslee will distribute to jurisdictions across the state.
While Stevenson noted the “anomaly” of $142,000 from the closeout of the Selkirk Middle School construction, the adjusted number still rings in at a count that has City Hall elated. Construction of Ridgeline High School and the Western States project also boosted numbers, Stevenson said.
He added that many cities in Washington are budgeting a 10 to 15 percent drop in sales tax revenue for next year.
Auto and RV sales – the two traditional drivers of the Liberty Lake economy – have been the engines of recovery. Both have accounted for between 25 to 30 percent of the city’s annual haul in sales tax over the years.
Mayor Shane Brickner said several restaurants have expressed interest in recruiting the city’s help with equipment through the CARES Act that would allow them to install tents for outdoor seating. “We’re doing some research to do if that’s feasible,” Brickner said. “We want to make sure we’re doing everything we can do to support their ability to run their business safely with guidelines from the health district.”
“We are seeing stronger sales than the city was anticipating from auto and RV,” Stevenson said. “We were expecting to see large reductions in these categories, especially RV sales. Other retail sales are greatly exceeding expectations, primarily from online sales and construction projects.” Stevenson noted that the financial flourish has not been the experience for every business in Liberty Lake, some of which are still struggling significantly in Phase 2 of the state’s pandemic plan. “The food industry has done better than expected but I can’t say that all of them have done well,” Stevenson said. “The food establishments also include the coffee places we have in town that have been doing exceptionally well along with the restaurants that have the drive-thru features – they’re constantly busy but then we have places that haven’t not opened their doors through
“We don’t know what the COVID effect will be on our future revenue sources,” Stevenson said. “So, we want to be very cautious as we move forward, optimistic but cautious.”
City Administrator Katy Allen told council on Sept 15 that four local restaurants had requested a total nine tents from the city. In conversations with representatives from two of the businesses, Allen said. “they feel they can keep their doors open by using these tents in the coming months to stay in business and serve their clientele.” Allen presented council with a graph on Sept. 1 showing the daily number of reported COVID-19 cases in Spokane County, revealing a decline since early August. “It’s going in the right direction, but the metrics aren’t where they need to be to move to another phase,” Allen said. “The mantra from the health district is, ‘Keep doing what you’re doing – wearing your masks, practicing social
OCTOBER 2020 • 9
The Splash distancing, washing your hands.’” Mayor Tem Mike Kennedy said Liberty Lake “is very, very fortunate to be in the financial position we’re in.” Kennedy related a story about a recent trip he and his wife Betty took to the Puget Sound area where businesses in many cities are still feeling the solemn ripple effect of the virus. He noted that in Port Angeles, a coastal town of around 20,000, only one of 30 waterfront retail and restaurants sites were open. Brickner said the city is keeping an eye on this year’s budget and the 2021 budget “in case this does continue on.” Allen added that the city still has “a healthy supply” of masks, gloves and cleaning supplies available for local businesses at no cost. City Hall staying put, 23 acres to be sold In a Sept 15 workshop on the possibility of moving City Hall, Kennedy suggested that council remove the idea from capital projects list. “We have to be in a position where we can make decisions,” he said. “This was a case when this came up, a lot of things went on hold. What I’m trying to establish as a council member, is make decisions. I’m in favor that we take it off the list. Right now, it’s preventing us from moving ahead on the library and Trailhead.” Council Member Cris Kaminskas countered: “None of these projects can be looked at in a vacuum. We need to look at how they work together and then prioritize the system. Until then, I don’t know how we can make a decision on this.” The discussion resulted in a vote to dismiss the idea of City Hall relocation and also led to a conversation on another lingering municipal project – the 23 city-owned acres adjacent to Liberty Lake Road and Legacy Ridge Drive. Council ultimately voted to sell the land that had been proposed for a trail and/or conservation area but has been in limbo for years. Details on transaction of the property will be worked out later. Council Members Dan Dunne and Hugh Severs missed the Sept. 1 meeting and the two votes with excused absences. Dunne, who emerged as a champion of the land being turned into a preserved natural area, addressed the decision to jettison the acreage at the Sept. 15 meeting. “I’m sorry I wasn’t able to participate in that discussion,” Dunne said. “I just want to make sure in reference that council members and
also our community realize the asset that the property is and how, in the long-term, undeveloped or natural scape is definitely the better use.” In other city news: • A proclamation was read into the record at the Sept. 1 City Council meeting designating September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in Liberty Lake and encouraging increased awareness and support in the fight against such diseases. • Sept. 1 was the final council meeting for Police Chief Brian Asmus, concluding a career with the city that began in 2001. Asmus will be working for the Central Valley School District as director of safety and security. Council Member Odin Langford summed up the feelings of many in thanking the longtime police chief: “I just wanted to say thank you very much for all your years of service. You’ve been an outstanding representative of the city and regardless of who replaces you, you will be missed.” • City Engineer Ben Schmitt gave a report on the recently completed Liberty Lake Road project, noting the city saved around $14,000 and completed the work in eight-anda-half days instead of the expected 20. Schmitt thanked Dennis Scott, Inland Asphalt and Parametrix for their efforts on the project. “I’m really pleased with the way the road turned out,” Schmitt said. • Council approved a task order up to $3,000 to provide the scope of work for HVAC units and lighting at the Liberty Lake Police Precinct. • The city has hired a new building inspector and is still advertising for a part-time building inspector and full-time maintenance worker. The city is also interviewing applicants for police officer while a recruiting firm has been brought on in the search for a new police chief. • Allen told council on Sept. 1 a contractor had been named for the Harvard Bridge widening project. She said the Henry Road project is still “in preliminary stages” with questions lingering about the budget, stormwater runoff and scope of the project. • Allen said the city’s inaugural “Chalk and Walk” featuring chalk art throughout the city the Saturday before Labor Day was “a great event.” She thanked Anita Eylar with the city and resident Tom Sahlberg for their help coordinating the project.
PROVEN LEADERSHIP Senator Mike Padden has a track record of being a strong advocate for public safety and protecting the most vulnerable. Mike has sponsored many important bills in Olympia to increase penalties on crimes against minors and to protect the developmentally disabled community.
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OCTOBER 2020 • 11
The Splash
Special Election G u i d e 2020 Dear Readers: With the upcoming election heating up and the sea of political signs filling our streets, we at The Splash wanted to take the opportunity to provide you with some information about the candidates seeking your vote this election cycle. It had become a tradition to bring you this election guide that showcases as many candidates as we
can get to respond. In order to give you more insight into who these people are we reached out to all of the contenders appearing on your ballot and asked them to please provide a 300-word response to the following questions (which we would publish at no cost). That is what you are about to read now. We asked them two questions; 1. What best qualifies you for this position? 2. What is the most
important issue that needs addressed? This year we have also added some fun questions! 1. Where is your favorite local place to eat? 2. What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? 3. Most admired public servant? While not everyone chose to respond to our request, a good number have and we hope that you find their unedited responses helpful for your voting consideration. This year you can register
to vote even on election day by going to CenterPlace in Spokane Valley.
Thanks for reading The Splash, we hope you enjoy it!
The Splash Team P.S. If you have any feedback on how we can enhance the voter’s guide or if you found it valuable please let us know by emailing us at elections@ libertylakesplash.com or by calling our office at 509-242-7752
Vote by November 3
12 • OCTOBER 2020
The Splash
County Commissioner District 1 Where is your favorite local place to eat? Josh Kerns Prohibition Gastropub Ted Cummings Domini’s Mary Kuney MAX at Mirabeau David Green Top of India Cathy McMorris- Rodgers Republic Pi Tracy Staab Joe’s House Marshall Casey Veraci Pizza Raquel Montoya-Lewis MiSo Dave Larson Frank’s Diner Helen Whitener Everywhere Richard Serns Old Spaghetti Factory Mike Padden MAX at Mirabeau John Roskelley Home Kim Wyman Twigs Bistro Bob McCaslin Red Robin Lori Feagan Outdoors! Rob Chase Palenque’s and King’s Restaurant Lance Gurel The Garden Matt Larkin Jack and Dan’s Chris Rekdal The Onion
Josh Kerns Incumbant
What best qualifies you for this position? I have served the people of Spokane County as Commissioner for four years and have worked to protect and grow jobs, have never
What best qualifies you for this position? I believe that I posses the leadership skills, the common sense the pragmatism and a work ethic to make a successful commissioner. I am a small business owner and landowner and I understand the impact of taxes on both. I do not want anyone including myself to be taxed out of their business or their property and will do all I can to ease and be a good
voted to raise property taxes, have promoted transparency in government, and have prioritized public safety. I am a lifelong resident of Spokane County and a small business owner. I am committed to making this the best place to live, work, and raise a family. I previously worked for the Washington State House of Representatives and have utilized my relationships and knowledge of the legislative process to benefit the people of Spokane County. What is the most
important issue that needs to be addressed? We must continue to focus on a safe, strong, and healthy reopening of our economy. We must support the families and small businesses in our community that are struggling during this difficult time. I am proud to have voted to provide grants to struggling small businesses in our community, provide funding for our local food banks, and help our local school districts provide education to our students.
steward of those taxes. I Ted Cummings want Spokane County to be Challenger a place free from hate, from armed militias menacing the public and be a county known for being a safe and welcoming community for all. I want Spokane county to have an intelligent design with short commute times, affordable housing and robust businesses and will to be addressed? work hard to achieve this Dealing with the vision. economic hardships caused What is the most by the pandemic. important issue that needs
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OCTOBER 2020 • 13
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County commissioner district 2 Mary Kuney Incumbant
What best qualifies you for this position? It’s an honor to serve as your County Commissioner. I ask for your vote, so I may continue to work collaboratively to address the issues facing our community. I have a proven track record of providing fiscally responsible solutions that protect the public, grow our economy, and maintain our infrastructure. I’m a CPA with a successful career in the private sector before serving as a Washington State Auditor. I was in-charge of
What best qualifies you for this position? I have a good heart and can think “outside the box”. We need change in Spokane County. Our allRepublican commissioners (for nearly 10 years now) have since 2011 reduced funding to the regional health district. The most recent major cut was for the 2018 year, taking away $400,000 in funding that could have better positioned the health district for the current pandemic. They also put “business before people” when they attempted in June to move to “Phase 3” well before the county was ready. And as a group, our commissioners have been slow to embrace racial equity in our justice system. I’m in favor of “no new jail” and investing in “smart justice” efforts to help change our
the Spokane County audit for two years, ensuring the County complied with all laws and regulations. As Commissioner, I have increased the budget for road maintenance, fully funded the Sheriff’s office and I’m endorsed by Sheriff Knezovich, accelerated construction of new recreational trail heads, and implemented electronic permitting allowing the County to permit over $1 billion of new construction this year, even with the COVID impacts. I have been volunteering in the Spokane community for over 30 years, helping the youth of Spokane. This includes Hutton Settlement, Boys and Girls Club, Boy Scouts, Junior League, and HUB Sports Center. All these organizations provide opportunities for kids and teach them to be valuable members of our community. As your County Commissioner I’ve been breaking down
silos between departments, improving efficiency, and promoting collaboration to make your government work better for you. I will continue to build our community for the future with your support. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? My top priority in this challenging year is supporting our community as we work towards safely reopening. I’ve championed fully funding the Spokane Regional Health District, and providing grants and PPE to local food banks, non-profits, and small businesses to help them weather this crisis. I’ve ensured we’re providing funding to schools to provide technology support for online learning and day camps, so our kids don’t fall further behind and our families can continue working.
justice system. We can, and must, do better. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? In the near term, the county should get back to the “basics” and behave more like a county than a cheerleading team for developers. The county is responsible for funding our justice system, which benefits us countywide. And in unincorporated parts of the county, it provides police and public safety services (through the sheriff’s department) and maintains public roads. As one drives around District 2, going from Spokane Valley or Liberty Lake to the unincorporated part of the county, development and growth have outpaced the county’s investment in roads and infrastructure. To “keep District 2 green” the commissioners should focus less on development and more
David Green
Challenger
on people. Also important? The impact of climate change (both near term and long term). I believe in science and that climate change is real. For your children and grandchildren, it’s time to elect leaders for Spokane County that can accept the need to address climate change and work locally on a regional basis to take steps to make for a more sustainable future.
congressional district 5 - u.S. Representative Cathy McMorrisRodgers Incumbant
What best qualifies you for this position? It is the honor of a lifetime to be your voice in Congress. I am proud of my record of delivering results for Eastern Washington. In the last two years, I have co-sponsored 39 bills passed in the House, ten of which have been signed into law. These have included improved mapping for rural broadband deployment, data security and privacy protections, modernizing the farm workforce, connecting small and medium-size farms to food banks, and more. I have fought to expand Fairchild Air Force Base, bring more doctors to our region, and protect our dams. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? I believe that right now we need to be focused on getting America back on its feet. We are living through unprecedented times, but Americans have always risen to meet the challenge of any adversity. I have been inspired by stories of hope and ingenuity. From a high schooler using his 3D printer to make masks, to Dry Fly Distillery making hand sanitizer, and so many more. We need to get people back to work and we need hybrid solutions to allow parents and schools more choices to get kids back in school quickly and safely. At the outset of the Coronavirus pandemic, I supported historic relief measures, such as the Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses, rural hospitals, and hardworking Americans who have been impacted by no fault of their own. I am leading in the fight to reduce the tax burden on American families, cut back excessive regulation, and rein in wasteful government spending. These are what will bring back our booming economy, not the government running every aspect of our lives. I believe that by working together, we can give Americans hope and confidence again. CHALLENGER DID NOT RESPOND
14 • OCTOBER 2020
Referendum 90 Washington Referendum 90, the Sex Education in Public Schools Measure, is on the ballot in Washington as a veto referendum on November 3, 2020. A vote to approve Referendum 90 supports allowing Senate Bill 5395 to take effect, thereby requiring public schools to provide comprehensive sexual health education for all students and requiring students to be excused if requested by their parents. A vote to reject Referendum 90 opposes allowing Senate Bill 5395 to take effect, thereby not requiring that public schools provide comprehensive sexual health education to all students. Overview What would the referendum do? The Washington State Legislature passed and the governor signed Senate Bill 5395 (SB 5395) in March 2020. Opponents of the bill collected signatures to place SB 5395 on the ballot as Referendum 90 and are advocating for a reject vote on the referendum. A vote to reject this referendum would repeal Senate Bill 5395, which was designed to require comprehensive sexual health education in public schools. A vote to approve the referendum would allow SB 5395 to go into effect. The bill is on hold pending the result of the election.[1] What would Senate Bill 5395 do? Senate Bill 5395 would require public schools to provide comprehensive sexual health education to students in grades 6-12 beginning in the 2021-22 school year and for all public school students, including those in grades K-5, beginning in the 2022-23 school year. The curriculum would have to include instruction and information regarding affirmative consent and bystander training. Instruction would need to be provided at least once to students in grades K-3, once to students in grades 4-5, twice to students in grades 6-8, and twice to students in grades 9-12. Sexual health education would not be required to be integrated into unrelated subjects or courses. For students in grades K-3, the material would be instruction in social and emotional learning (SEL). Schools would be required to notify parents that they are providing comprehensive sexual health education and make all course materials accessible to the parents. Parents could file a written request with the school district or the school's principal to excuse their child from sexual health education instruction, which must be granted if requested.
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Court of appeals, div. 3 - judge position 2 Tracy Staab
What best qualifies you for this position? The Court of Appeals is the second-highest court in the State. Eastern Washington deserves judges at this level with judicial experience and proven leadership. There is no substitute for my 27 years of legal experience as a judge, civil attorney, prosecutor, and public defender. As an attorney and law clerk, I worked on hundreds of appeals.
For the last 11 years, I have been a Judge for the Spokane Municipal Court. Our Court has been recognized locally and nationally for developing innovative programs. As a Judge, I have earned a reputation for being firm, fair, and thoughtful. My dedication to our community is demonstrated by my volunteer and committee work. I have served on the Spokane Regional Law and Justice Commission as well as the Executive Council for our church, Life Center Foursquare. Judges are nonpartisan so voting for judges is like selecting a job applicant. Look for qualifications and references. I am the only candidate who has been rated “Exceptionally Well Qualified” by four independent bar associations, including the Washington State Veteran’s Bar
Association. I am endorsed by more than 50 judges and 100 attorneys, and I have strong bi-partisan support from community leaders. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? We are living in historic times. Our lives have been upended. The Court of Appeals will decide many of the issues we are struggling with now. Whether it is government regulations during an emergency or criminal justice reform, the Court of Appeals will decide ninety percent (90%) of appeals from the Superior Court. While judicial candidates cannot ethically suggest how we will decide these issues, I will not legislate from the bench and I will continue to faithfully uphold the Constitution.
What best qualifies you for this position? The Court of Appeals is the keeper of Washington law. Our division reviews all trial court decisions east of the Cascades. This involves all types of cases, including property rights, business, contract, and insurance cases, family law, guardianship, criminal etc. The cases reviewed result in judicial opinions that will be cited for our trial courts as both binding and guiding principles for their next decisions. Your next Court of Appeals judge will be writing 70 opinions a year that will impact you and Washington. I know how the law impacts people and individuals in Washington. Over the last 10 years I have stood with people and taken them through
the trial and appellate courts. Whether we were dealing with their property rights, their financial rights, their right to family, their right to freedom of speech or religion, I have stood with a variety of people from the renter being evicted, to the business trying to get its contract back on track, to the sister trying to keep a guardianship of a disabled sibling. Along with this, prior to law I was in the private sector as a Vice President for a financial institution, and I have owned my own law practice for the last 7 years. My life experience and legal practice allows me to not only know the law, but the real impact it has on real people. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? The government’s role is
Marshall Casey
to protect and maintain individual rights. Ensuring this happens is the most important issue facing our judicial system today. This is best done with judicial humility, realizing that “We the People” write the law. Respect the Constitution, respect the role of the legislature, preserve the importance of the jury, and deliver justice to the parties; this is how I will serve you as an appellate judge.
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Supreme Court - Justice Position 3 Raquel MontoyaLewis incumbant
What best qualifies you for the position? I grew up in a military family. My father joined the US Air Force as a young man. He dedicated his career as an engineer to military service. I have been in public service for my entire career and I look forward to continuing to serve the state of Washington, as my father served his country and community. I sit on the Washington State Supreme Court as a
What best qualifies you for this position? Judge Dave Larson is our best choice for Supreme Court Justice because he will protect our civil rights and uphold the law and constitution as written. Judge Larson has a record of fairness and impartiality, which is why he’s enjoyed strong support from Democrats, Republicans, and Independents over his career. During this time of growing division, we need a Justice like Dave Larson. Judge Dave Larson has 35 years of legal experience including experience as a seasoned trial judge, an accomplished trial lawyer, and an innovative mediator. He has also taught new judges on multiple subjects for 10 years as a faculty member of the state’s Judicial College. Judge Dave Larson has
justice now, and I seek to retain this position in this election. I bring 20 years of experience as a trial judge, with the last 5 as a Superior Court judge for Whatcom County, a primarily rural community. For the 15 years prior to that, I served as a tribal court judge and also as a tenured professor at WWU. I have been a judge on traffic citations, presided over murder trials, and everything in between. I have sentenced people from community service to life prison terms. I’ve presided over civil cases of all kinds. I bring a vast set of experiences as a judge to the Supreme Court. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? When I heard criminal cases, I saw the devastating toll addiction takes on our
communities, and this is the most critical issue facing the legal system today. I’ve presided over drug courts and have witnessed lives turned around by a therapeutic approach. That approach allows people who have caused damage to their communities to return to those communities as productive, sober, healthy people. Washington can become a leader in therapeutic approaches for issues that most communities in our state seek solutions. People come to the courthouse because they have a problem they cannot solve on their own. On the Supreme Court, I seek to be a leader in new, innovative approaches to the long-term problems our communities face.
been a champion for improving our courts. He’s developed and supported reforms to reduce domestic violence, combat drug addiction, and better serve the mentally ill. Judge Dave Larson knows these same approaches can be used to reduce the community impacts of the homelessness crisis, humanely making our communities safer. He is also trusted and respected in minority communities and will be able to build bridges as we look for better ways to equitably handle criminal and civil cases in our courts. If you know Judge Larson, you know how much he cares about the people who appear in his courtroom and how purpose-driven he is to help people have better lives. He’s fair, compassionate, respectful, has a great legal mind, and he knows the law and the State Constitution. In sum, Judge Larson has
Dave Larson
Challenger
the character and legal experience we need in our next Justice. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? The Supreme Court is in charge of running our state’s court system and that is exactly why his leadership is needed to help reform how our courts handle the cases that are adversely affecting so many people and communities across this state.
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Josh Kerns Oreo Ted Cummings Peanut butter and chocolate Mary Kuney Chocolate chip mint David Green Huckleberry Cathy McMorris- Rodgers Rocky road Tracy Staab Huckleberry Marshall Casey Butter pecan Raquel Montoya-Lewis Chunky monkey Dave Larson Tin roofs sundae Helen Whitener Baseball nut Richard Serns Chocolate chip mint Mike Padden Huckleberry John Roskelley Chocolate Kim Wyman Jamaica almond fudge Bob McCaslin Haagen Daaz swiss almond Lori Feagan Huckleberry Rob Chase Vanilla Bean Lance Gurel Neapolitan Matt Larkin Cookies and Cream Chris Reykdal Rocky Road
16 • OCTOBER 2020
Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck
What best qualifies you for this position? My experience serving in public office and advocating for Washingtonians best qualifies me for this position. I was elected to five terms in the Washington State House, where I served as Majority Leader. I have served four terms in the US Congress for our state’s 10th district. In those campaigns I learned the importance of working hard, surrounding myself with people smarter than me, talking directly with voters, and continually working to connect with people from all parts of Washington. I have also sought to serve my community in a variety of other roles as well from serving as Chief of Staff to Governor Booth Gardner to co-founding and leading TVW, a statewide public affairs network. Locally, I have served on the Advisory Board to New Market Skill Center and served many years on the Board of Trustees of my alma mater, The Evergreen State College. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? We are currently receiving a deeply painful reminder of the existential threat of global warming. In just one day recently, twice as many acres burned in wildfires as did in ALL of 2019! There can now be no doubt that the globe is warming and that climate is changing. And lives and livelihoods are already being destroyed as a result, as this year’s fire season vividly illustrates. Public health is seriously compromised. Homes and businesses are lost. Transportation and educational services are significantly disrupted. Crops are lost. Going forward, our economy will be changed either by climate change itself or by the steps we can take to reverse it. I believe that we’ll be better off it we choose the path rather than letting physics dictate it to us, but in order to choose our destiny, we must begin acting urgently. CHALLENGER DID NOT RESPOND
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Supreme Court - justice position 6 Helen Whitener Incumbant
What best qualifies you for this position? I am a highly experienced Washington State Supreme Court Justice. I am a former Superior Court Judge in Pierce County, a former Judge on the Washington State Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals, a former Pro-Tem Judge for the Pierce County District Court and the City of Tacoma Municipal Court. I have also served as both a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and a public and private Defense
What best qualifies you for this position? I have spent the past 20 plus years in the work of school administration as a Human Resources administrator, an Assistant Superintendent, and a Superintendent of Schools working within the many legal requirements and regulations pertaining to public education. These include issues in Constitutional law, such as due process rights, freedom of speech and expression; Labor and Employment law, including collective bargaining, hiring, benefits, investigations, grievance hearings, and discipline; Family law which includes custody rights, access to student records and public information requests; and serving as the district compliance officer for nondiscrimination complaints,
Attorney.
issue that needs to be addressed?
I have presided over thousands of court proceedings to include complex civil and criminal jury and bench trials with multiple claimants and/or multiple defendants. I have presided over complex family law trials and settlement negotiations. As an attorney, I handled highprofile, complex, criminal and civil litigation.
The most important issue that our courts need to address is providing access to justice during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Washington courts have experienced a backlog of cases since the pandemic started, and as we resume jury trials, we are attempting to do so safely within an old and underfunded structure. Many courts have implemented ingenious ways to ensure that all participants, to include jurors, are kept safe. Our courts are utilizing technology more efficiently so that in-person appearances are minimized; finding community solutions to address juvenile cases so that detention is used as a last resort; and providing civil legal aid assistance to all people in our state impacted by the Pandemic in the areas of housing, family law matters, domestic violence, and public assistance.
I am rated as Exceptionally Well Qualified by the following Bar Associations: the Cardozo Society of Washington State, Joint Asian Bar Association, King County Bar Association, Latina/o Bar Association, Loren Miller Bar Association, Q-Law Bar Association, Tacoma Pierce County Bar Association, Washington State Veterans Bar Association, and Washington Women Lawyers Bar Association. What is the most important
Title IX, ADA, and anti-bullying and harassment complaints.. Holding both a J.D. and Ph.D. in which I researched “The Process and Politics of Education Legislation in Washington State,” I reviewed and wrote policy for several large school districts in which I worked closely with board members, administrators, teachers, students, parents, and community members. During this time I also taught a graduate level School Law class to aspiring principals at two universities. Beyond these academic and work experience qualifications, I have been recognized throughout my career as one who listens carefully and makes decisions that are fair and justice, respecting the rights and interests of all stakeholders. What is the most important issue that needs to be
Richard Serns
Challenger
addressed? The most important issue facing the criminal justice system is for there to be both the perception and the reality of equity where infractions by all individuals are met with the same response, irrespective of income, race, religion, political affiliation, special interest affiliation, endorsement, or donations made.
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legisl ative district 4 - state senator Mike Padden
What best qualifies you for this position? My qualifications for the State Senate include my life experiences. My wife Laura and I have lived in the Spokane Valley for over 40 years where we raised our 5 sons. My legislative experience includes 15 years in the State House, and 9 years as your State Senator. I have chaired the Senate Law and Justice Committee and been its ranking member as well as serving on the Transportation
and K-12 Education committees and held caucus leadership positions. I was a County District Court Judge for nearly 12 years and graduated from Gonzaga University and the Gonzaga School of Law. The biggest issue facing the state right now is the budget deficit which is almost 9 billion dollars. The legislature should have had a special session in June to balance the budget without raising taxes. State spending has grown 78% in the last 7 years. There is a spending problem. The Governor and the majority party refused to call a special session, which is required by law. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? Other important issues are transportation infrastructure and maintenance. I helped secure approval of the Barker
to Harvard transportation project, water quality equipment for Newman Lake, funds for the Appleway trail and the HUB. We need to support our Law Enforcement personnel not defund them. There are reasonable criminal justice reforms that should be considered. We need to reopen our businesses and our schools as soon as possible. I will continue to work to reduce unnecessary housing regulations so we can encourage more affordable home and condominium ownership. I urge rejection of Referendum 90 which imposes mandates from Olympia and reduces the role of local school boards and parents.
What best qualifies you for this position? I’m qualified for this position because I have lived in the Spokane Valley and rural north since 1972 and understand both the urban and rural issues facing the 4th District. As a former Spokane County commissioner before the City of the Valley was formed, I was instrumental in passing the first GMAcompliant comprehensive plan that set forth the Valley’s growth and development regulations. As an appointed member to the state’s Growth Management Hearings Board, I held cities and counties in Eastern Washington to the law and intent of the GMA when petitioned to do so by citizens. I bring experience, independence, and integrity to an Olympia that is owned by PAC’s and corporate
interests. As such, I have not taken PAC or corporate money for my campaign. The only voice I’m listening to is yours. My goal is to lower property taxes for seniors, bring stability to a budget bloated by the Democrat majority, and leave the environment for future generations better than we found it. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? Most important issue – the budget. It’s been decimated with the loss of sales tax revenues and lack of catastrophic preparedness. Your current legislators are going to be seeking new revenue. History indicates the vulnerable – you and I - will be their likely targets. I will stand with the political party that refuses to increase property or sales taxes, but looks for common sense cuts
John Roskelley
Incumbant
Challenger
to a budget out of control and helps me eliminate gifting of public funds to corporations through special interest exemptions.
secretary state
of
Kim Wyman Incumbant
What best qualifies you for this position? For the past 27 years, I have dedicated my life to making elections accessible, secure, transparent, fair, and impartial for all eligible voters. Over this time, I have successfully conducted over 120 elections in our state and been certified as a state and national elections administrator. Prior to being Secretary of State, I worked at the local level as the Thurston County Elections Director and Thurston County Auditor. This job-related experience has allowed me to not only be the architect of the elections system we have today but lead the country in accessible and secure elections. During my time as Secretary of State, we have created the first in the country Elections Security Operations Center to protect our elections from foreign and domestic threats; built a nationally award-winning voter registration system called VoteWA; developed partnerships with the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and our own Washington National Guard to fortify and test our elections security system; increased participation by engaging current and future voters through education and outreach programs; and developed Continuity of Operation Plans for all 39 counties to be able to conduct elections during things like natural disasters and a pandemic. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? While all of this has given us the most accessible and secure election systems in the country, we still have work to do. If re-elected, I want to continue to implement new technologies and secure funding to protect our elections from threats; develop new ways to educate voters and increase our already high participation; and work with even more communities across the state to remove barriers from voting. I hope with this experience and proven leadership that I have earned your vote to continue this important work as your Secretary of State. CHALLENGER DID NOT RESPOND
18 • OCTOBER 2020
The Splash
legislative district 4 - rep. position 1 Most admired public servant?
Bob McCaslin
Josh Kerns Ronald Reagan Ted Cummings Lincoln Mary Kuney Abraham Lincoln David Green Bob Ferguson Cathy McMorris- Rodgers Abraham Lincoln Tracy Staab President Abraham Lincoln Marshall Casey Winston Churchill Rachel Montoya-Lewis Maj. Vincent Montoya (my father) Dave Larson Abraham Lincoln
What best qualifies you for this position? What best qualifies me for this job is my experience in working on issues important to people in the 4th. Our school districts are our largest employers here, and we need them to provide the best education for our children that we can get. My experience as a teacher for 31 years has aided me to be effective on K-12 and Early Learning issues. I’ve worked
Helen Whitener Mother Theresa Richard Serns Mark Hatfield Mike Padden Ronald Reagan John Roskelley Tenzin Gyatso, His Holiness, the Fourteenth Dalai Lama Kim Wyman Former Washington State Governor Dan Evans Bob McCaslin My dad, Senator Bob McCaslin Lori Feagan Eleanor Roosevelt Rob Chase Ron Paul Lance Gurel Teddy Roosevelt Matt Larkin Abraham Lincoln Chris Reykdal Tom Foley
What best qualifies you for this position? I have been a local nurse and Nurse Practitioner for over 30 years. I have cared for thousands of Eastern Washington residents during the most vulnerable times of their lives. Those experiences, memories, and people anchor me and inform my perspective as a community member, professional, and leader ready to work hard for everyone living in the 4th Legislative District. It is important to know that your representative is someone you can depend on, who will unconditionally listen to what matters to you, and secure the resources you need, regardless of your zip code. Our current representatives have been ineffective, and we cannot afford for that to continue. Now more than ever, as
hard on better teacher evaluations, and stood strong against mandatory K-12 sex education handed down from OSPI. I am unashamedly pro-business, and have spoken strongly against the Governor’s proclamations that chose winners and losers based on the tax revenue they produce. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? Our most important issue is now moving forward using accurate data pertaining to COVID 19. Cases have flatlined, and the mortality rate according to the CDC is now .003 percent overall for all COVID cases. It’s time for our state to re-open, and we can do it safely.
we look forward to a period of recovery from the COVID-19 public health crisis, our district needs a representative who will show up, listen, and be responsive. As a healthcare provider, I believe I have vital experience to offer, and the dedication to our district to be the leader we need. I will be at the table to fight for the needs of Eastern Washington when important decisions are being made. I have been endorsed by nurses and healthcare providers, educators, firefighters, children’s advocates, and non-partisan local elected officials like Liberty Lake Mayor Shane Brickner. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? The most immediate priority will be working with other State Legislators to balance our state’s budget through responsible revenue and spending decisions, and move toward economic and human recovery from the
Ballot Drop Off Locations
Liberty Lake Library 23123 E Mission Ave Liberty Lake, WA 99019 Otis Orchards Library 22324 E Wellesley Ave Otis Orchards, WA 99027 Spokane Valley Library 12004 E Main Ave Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Argonne Library 4322 N Argonne Rd Spokane, WA 99212
Lori Feagan
COVID-19 pandemic. The challenges our communities are facing are intertwined – job loss, impacts to business, education, housing, and our education systems, as well as disparities in healthcare access. Thus, there is not one single most important issue to address. As your State Representative, I will work with local leaders in our community to champion the priorities of our district.
OCTOBER 2020 • 19
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legisl ative district 4 - rep. position 2 Rob Chase
this position?
What best qualifies you for
What best qualifies you for this position? As a Certified Public Accountant, I am the right choice to represent the interests of Eastern Washington as we face the budget shortfall. I understand budgets, and I will work tirelessly to ensure the state is responsible with our hard-earned dollars. My children and grandchildren live in this community, and I want what’s best for them and for your family: a safe community that strengthens its businesses by making this a model community that attracts and retains the best businesses and the best workers. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? When the legislature meets in Olympia this January, our
I have lived in the 4th District for 40 years and I have been politically active for 25 years. I was Spokane County Treasurer for 8 years and kept my two term pledge. As Treasurer we streamlined our services and kept the same number of staff constant. I spearheaded legislation to allow partial payments of any amount at any
state will be facing the impacts of the COVID pandemic: decreased state revenues and an unprecedented demand for public services. I think the challenge to legislators will be to keep essential services funded with the least impact on residents. A simple acrossthe-board percentage-equal reduction in funding for all state departments and services is just too simplistic for the sophisticated problems we face. We need and deserve elected officials who pledge to support the needs of our community, including our transportation infrastructure requests: who pledge to represent the diversity of our community equitably, without special favor to any one group; and who pledge to not waste your tax dollars attempting to split our state
time on property taxes to save homes and reduce collection costs to the County. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? We need to find a way to deal with future pandemics without destroying businesses and lives.
Lance Gurel
in two. We are stronger together: as a community and as a state. Strong workers and strong families make strong communities and strong businesses. Whether you are a D, an I, or an R: I am the best person to represent your interests and your values in Olympia. Please vote by November 3 for me, Lance Gurel for District 4 State Representative.
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The Washington Authorize Fund Investment of Family Medical Leave and Long-Term Care Accounts Amendment is on the ballot in Washington as a legislatively referred constitutional amendment on November 3, 2020. A "yes" vote supports allowing the Washington Legislature to invest the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Account and the Long-Term Care Services and Supports Trust Account into stocks or other methods of investment. A "no" vote opposes allowing the Washington Legislature to invest the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Account and the Long-Term Care Services and Supports Trust Account into stocks or other methods of investment, thereby limiting the methods of investment for the accounts to government and corporate bonds and certificates of deposit. The measure was passed by the legislature and certified for the ballot on March 6, 2020. Overview What would the amendment do? The amendment would allow funds in the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Account and the Long-Term Care Services and Supports Trust Account to be invested as provided by law.[1] Currently, the Washington Constitution prohibits the state from investing funds into stocks or other methods of investment, limiting investment capabilities of the state to government and corporate bonds and certificates of deposit. Some other funds have been made exempt from that constitutional restriction, including the following:[2] public pension and retirements funds; industrial insurance trust funds; and funds that benefit individuals with developmental disabilities.
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The Splash
Art torney general Matt Larkin
What best qualifies you for this position? What qualifies me for this position is my background and experience. I’m a lifelong Washingtonian currently residing in Woodinville with my wife and 4 children. I have my law degree from Gonzaga, and my Masters of Law (LLM) from George Washington University. I’ve worked in the White House for a US President, I’ve prosecuted
and I am co-owner & chief legal counsel of my family’s 3rd generation water works manufacturing company that is headquartered in Bothell and employs over 500 people. My experience as a business owner & chief legal counsel in the private sector, as a prosecutor in the public sector, and in high pressure situations in the White House uniquely qualify me for the challenges that I will face as Washington’s next Attorney General. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? The most important issue that we need to address here in Washington is crime. Under our current Attorney General—our states chief legal officer—we’ve seen a 55.6% increase in murder,
a 68% increase in sexual assault, a 1926.2% (NOT A TYPO) increase in human trafficking offenses, and a 300% increase in officers killed in the line of duty. These problems need to be taken seriously by our leaders—not ignored. I intend to go about solving these problems by creating specialized task forces to combat this extreme rise in crime.
CHALLENGER DID NOT RESPOND
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What best qualifies you for this position? It has been an honor to be your voice and leader overseeing our state’s K-12 public education system. I hope to earn your support as I seek re-election to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). We have achieved so much, but right now we face a global pandemic that is transforming our lives as we speak. We WILL get to the other side of this unprecedented crisis. My job is to lead our education system with transparency and integrity to ever higher results even in the face of this pandemic. We are already redesigning our system to meet the needs of our students in the event we face this, or other massive risks to our state.
If you honor me with a second term, I intend to build on the incredible momentum we have already achieved over the past four years. We developed a new school accountability system, ensured local timber revenue stays with local school districts, increased educator salaries to attract and retain our amazing educators, added career and technical education pathways to graduation, returned civics classes to our schools, and increased graduation rates to a record high. What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed? I began my professional career as a school teacher, I’ve served on a local school board, spent 14 years as an executive in our state’s public community and technical college system, six years served in the Legislature,
Chris Reykdal
incumbant
and the last four years as your State Superintendent. I have experienced education in this state from nearly every perspective. I am the first state superintendent in more than 50 years with children in our public K-12 system subject to the policies, decisions, and outcomes of my leadership. The stakes are high for my kids, your kids, our economy, and our shared future. I’d be honored to earn your vote! CHALLENGER DID NOT RESPOND
OCTOBER 2020 • 21
The Splash
Moving Forward with
LANCE GUREL
Vote by Nov. 3
for 4th District State Representative (D)
The Best Choice Heʼs a CPA & MBA who can go to Olympia to tackle the budget deficit & ensure Eastern Washington receives its fair share. His children & grandchildren live here—You can trust that his decisions will be the best for all families in Eastern Washington. He will not waste your money trying to split our state in two.
Connect with Lance
509.599.2268 Lance@VoteLanceGurel.com VoteLanceGurel.com
He embraces the diversity of our community, and stands up to those who aim to divide us through hate & fear. Paid for by Lance Gurel for District 4 State Representative | PO Box 496 Spokane Valley WA 99037
Vote b Nov y . 3
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About and for Liberty Lake seniors
LL COVID Cares club By Nina Culver
Splash contributor
One day last month two young girls, each maybe 8 or 9 years old, walked into the Liberty Lake Yokes grocery store, but they weren’t there to buy snacks or a drink. They were there to deliver enough handwritten cards for every employee, each card thanking the employees for their hard work and dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cashier Jean Simpson said she appreciates all the cards and the kids who made them. “They were awesome,” she said of the kids. “I don’t know who they are.” The cards are all signed COVID Care Club. Some of the printing looks like it was done by young children, others look like they were written by someone older. No names were signed. No one knows who the children are who dropped off the cards. Simpson said it’s almost better that way. “That’s the best way to do something for someone is anonymously,” she said. “We just thought this was the sweetest thing they can do.” One of her favorite cards has a straightforward message. “Dear Yokes employee, thank you for risking your life every day to help people buy food,” it reads. “We hope you are happy in these rough times with COVID-19.” One fan of exclamation points wrote, “Dear Yokes employee, thank you for helping everyone and society! You are STRONG!! COVID will not break us!!” Another card featuring a hand drawn sun wearing sunglasses reads “Dear Yokes employee, thank you so much for helping during COVID-19.” A card written in several colors reads “Dear Yokes worker, you are strong, you are amazing, you are brave and we thank you.” Simpson came up with the idea to display several of the cards on the wall at the front of the store by the checkout stands so people can see them. The employees also
posted their own response. It reads, “We, the employees of Yokes, are very thankful for you! We thank the “COVID Care Club” for their thoughtful and compassionate gift! These kids researched how many employees worked here and handwrote a thank you card for each one of us. Such a generous and kind way to support our community! We thank you!” Simpson has been working at the Yokes for the four years it has been open. But she’s been in the building for much longer than that. She worked there when it was previously a Safeway and she’s been there long enough to watch a whole generation of children grow up. “I used to work in the bakery and was the cookie lady,” she said. “I watched them grow up and now I work with some of them.” Simpson said its hard to describe the reaction the cards created in her and other employees. “This really touched me,” she said. “The community is awesome and we
have great clientele.” Being an essential worker during a pandemic can sometimes be hard, Simpson said. The days are long and stressful. In the beginning of the pandemic there were often shortages of things like toilet paper and shoppers were stressed. She was feeling down on the day the cards arrived but soon felt better after opening several and reading them, Simpson said. “I thought it was a nice glimmer of hope in the darkness,” she said. “I’m just tired. We’re all tired of COVID and what it’s done. It just hit at a good time.” After the cards were dropped off, they ended up on the desk of store manager Harold Rehbock. He said he’s never seen anything similar in his career. Occasionally someone will write him a letter or email about a particular employee, but that’s all. “That’s a first time ever,” he said. “I was really shocked. It was nice of them to do that. It was really neat.” The cards made their way to the employee break room, where
Simpson first saw them. “Jean came up with this great idea of displaying them,” Rehbock said. Simpson said she was impressed by the time and effort that went into the cards. She also liked the drawings that were included in many of the cards. There are suns, flowers, hearts, people and other personal touches. “That’s a lot of work,” she said. “It’s just the time involved.” That hard work is the reason Simpson would like the group to get some recognition for what they did, even if they want to be anonymous. “They did such a kind gesture I thought they needed to be recognized for it,” she said. Simpson said she made some efforts to find out the identities of the COVID Care Club members, but wasn’t successful. “Not everybody wants to be recognized for doing good deeds,” she said. “If I could tell the kids thank you personally, I would. What the heck, I’d buy them a donut.”
OCTOBER 2020 • 25
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Prep sports greet fall with shifted seasons, new GSL By Craig Howard
Splash Contributing Editor
Instead of corner kicks, touchdown catches and blocks at the net, this fall’s high school sports season has been characterized by a holding pattern. The lingering impact of COVID-19 has put traditional autumn staples like girls’ soccer, slowpitch softball, football, cross country and volleyball on pause while the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) has proven its ability to pivot, devising a revised schedule that would still include all sports in the 2020-21 academic year as long as the effects of the pandemic dissipate. “Everyone is optimistic,” said Ken Van Sickle, longtime University High athletic director and newly named Greater Spokane League (GSL) director. “We want every single student-athlete to have the opportunity to compete in the sport they love.” While athletic venues remain silent for now, the WIAA is proposing a format that would have winter sports beginning Dec. 28 and running through Feb. 28. The slate includes girls’ and boys’ basketball, gymnastics and wrestling. Fall sports would follow – only in the spring – starting March 1 through May 9. Football practices would begin on Feb. 17 with the postseason running through May 9. The final season – featuring girls’ and boys’ tennis, track and field, fastpitch softball, baseball and golf – would span from May 2 to June 27. The ambitious timeline for all three seasons hinges on the state moving into Phase 3 of Gov. Jay Inslee’s program to reduce the spread of Coronavirus. Even then, only sports like cross country, golf and track and field could resume regular practice conditions and normal competition. In the same
phase, baseball, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, football, tennis and slowpitch and fastpitch softball would be able to begin a modified practice schedule and resume competition on some level under Phase 4. Then there is the unknown of how everything would pan out based on what happens with the pandemic. “If things don’t work out, it’s back to the drawing board,” Van Sickle said. “None of this is set in stone because we just don’t know where we’ll be.” Meanwhile, students who participate in activities like debate, Knowledge Bowl and DECA – also overseen by the WIAA – are anxious to return to practice and competition as well. Transitions to online versions of debate tournaments have gained traction. As a way to cut down on travel and reduce potential exposure to the virus, Van Sickle said there has been talk of altering the post-season by dividing the state into four regions. “You’d end up having four regional ‘state’ champions,” he said. “For this situation, if we’re fortunate to even play, why wouldn’t w e restrict travel? Do I
want to send our student-athletes to the westside on a bus?” When prep sports finally do return, fans may need to brush up on the lineup in region’s most visible conference. The GSL has realigned and now includes former Great Northern League (GNL) schools like Cheney, Clarkston, Pullman, East Valley and West Valley while former 4A programs like Ferris and Mead have transitioned to 3A. Cheney, meanwhile, has moved up to 3A while Rogers and Shadle Park have gone from 3A to 2A. The new-look GSL is split into two divisions with the trio of 4A schools – Central Valley, Gonzaga Prep and Lewis and Clark – joining 3A representatives Mt. Spokane, Mead, North Central, Cheney and University on one side. The other division consists of the 2A schools: Clarkston, Pullman, Rogers, Shadle Park, East Valley and West Valley. North Central will be included with this group for football only. When Ridgeline High School in Liberty Lake opens for the 2021-22 academic year, the Falcons will join the GSL as the newest 3A member. At
West
Valley,
Athletic
Director Jamie Nilles is enthused about the new constellation of local teams and what it might mean for the smaller schools that were once part of the GNL. “It’s a huge benefit to be in the GSL when it comes to media and awareness,” Nilles said. “The timing is good for this. It will help with travel for one thing.” Over the years, West Valley has been part of several conferences, including the Border League that included Idaho schools, the Frontier League and, prior to joining the GNL, a previous configuration of the GSL in the mid-2000’s that also featured WV’s neighbor East Valley. “It’s going to be better than the last time we became part of the GSL,” said Nilles who recalled the Eagles being one of the smaller 3A schools in the conference, yet still competing well in sports like track and field and boys’ basketball. Under the new format, there will be some crossover games between 2A schools like West Valley and larger schools like CV and University. Nilles said there is also potential for some interesting inter-league competition between programs such as Shadle Park and West Valley – two of the state’s elite 2A football schools – battling on local turf. “I think some good, new rivalries will be built,” N i l l e s said.
OCTOBER 2020 • 27
The Splash
RETURN YOUR BALLOT BY NOV 3 lorifeagan.com LORI IS PROUDLY ENDORSED BY: Non-Partisan Elected Officials: Shane Brickner, Liberty Lake Mayor Kate McLachlan, Millwood City Council Tim Hattenburg, Spokane Valley City Council Organizations representing: Nurses, healthcare workers, teachers, children’s advocates, firefighters, and many more! Paid for by Friends of Lori Feagan - PO Box 815, Spokane Valley, WA 99016
Final Point By Mike Vlahovich Splash contributor
When my dad was in his 70s he said that whoever called these the golden years didn’t know what they were talking about. I can now empathise, although he didn’t also have to deal with self-isolation during a Pandemic, coupled with apocalyptic smoke that has rendered the sun an eerie shade of orange and put us in a mental funk. To complicate things, it’s also put a kibosh on sports for high school athletes through the professionals (I must admit that I cringe at the cutout of Jimi Hendrix posing as a cardboard fans, staring at me while watching Mariners’ games). You get stir crazy. You can’t focus fearing the onset of Alzheimer’s. The other day, by accident, I left water running into my swimming pool overnight. It didn’t overflow into the yard but I had to drain some of it off. While that was happening, I got a phone call and inevitably it drained too much off and had to refill the pool again.
But I digress. Oh, yeah – what about the high school athletes. Think about the thoughts of boys and girls whose sports are on hold while their Idaho counterparts are conducting business as usual. Think about the possibility that a multi-sport athlete must pick and choose between one or another. Maybe unlikely but if as proposed, what now if they jam things into four seasons later on? Maybe we ask government to wave its magic want and make COVID-19 and the smoke disperse. Isn’t what we pay our elected officials to do? Just kidding. By the way, while I’m writing this, I forgot to eat breakfast. How things have changed Back in the day if a baseball player got a skin scuffing rasberry while sliding into third base the coach would say, “Rub some dirt on it.” Imagine that happening today. Those were times when neighborhood kids got together in an open field, chose up sides and played games for fun (No uniforms or officials required.) As they matured and their abilities
improved, those same kids played on elementary school courts and fields, they were watched by high school coaches who culled the herd. Traveling teams were scarcely heard of, if at all. Today, youth sports had become a high tech cottage industry. Even traveling teams have become an opportunist’s business with promises of a college scholarship. A recent Sports Illustrated article showed how far this has come. We now have cognitive coaches who teach the mental side of game, how an athlete can eliminate “distracting thought” rattling around in his or her head. It is called psychological flexibility. An example in Julie Kliegman’s article is Kansas City Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes who went from three-star athlete out of high school to the 10th player chosen in the pro draft. These cognitive skills are becoming as important as strength training. It is currently a college and professional staple. How soon could it filter down to high schools? Now excuse me. My toast is getting cold.
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Dear Editor: In these times of riots, shootings and lawlessness, we have a great need for calm, clear heads to represent us in Washington D.C. In a little over a month, we will be choosing leaders to govern us in the coming years. U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers is such a leader. She has represented Eastern Washington and worked hard for this region and this country. I appreciate that she has not lost track of us at home while working in the Federal Government. She still makes her home here, and our concerns are still her concerns. She is involved with conservation. She also realizes how important our northwest dams are to farming projects all over Eastern Washington. We like to eat, and we need power and water to produce the food! She begins looking at solutions immediately following disasters – like annual fires and the need to rebuild, as well as the management of our resources to prevent such disasters. With much more work to be done in many areas – Rep. Cathy works for us. Rep. Cathy looks at issues through old-fashioned common sense. I am grateful. That’s why I trust her. It’s why she still represents me. Linda J Reed
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OPINION Dear Editor, Last week, Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers took time to meet with a group of Spokane residents to hear how the COVID-19 pandemic not only threatens the health of everyone in our community, but also presents additional challenges for those living with Alzheimer’s, their caregivers, the research community and the nonprofits serving serve these vulnerable populations. As a Health Professional working daily with the elderly, most of whom have some form of Dementia I understand firsthand the impact Alzheimer’s and all dementia has on families across our country, and I’m thankful for Rep. McMorris Rodgers’ support in Congress. The Promoting Alzheimer’s Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act (H.R. 6813/ S. 3703) would require the Department of Justice to develop training materials to assist professionals who support victims of abuse living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia in order to improve the quality of their interactions with this vulnerable population, and help protect them from elder abuse. Please join me, and the Alzheimer’s Association in encouraging Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers to cosponsor this bipartisan policy that will positively impact the millions of families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia in the fourth COVID-19 pandemic relief package. Jenny Gower
Cathy McMorris Rodgers Is On Our Side In Eastern Washington, we rely on the energy we get from hydropower. Dams provide affordable electricity for millions of people in the region, critical irrigation for farmers, and navigable waters for transportation of goods, which lowers CO2 emissions from trucks. Extreme environmentalists want to tear down these dams, rather than work to make them transparent for salmon. This would be an unmitigated disaster for Eastern Washington. What’s funny is that these people usually live somewhere far away from the impacts of what they’re proposing. Carol Snyder
The Splash THE
LIBERTY LAKE
Dear Editor, One hundred years after the ratification of the Constitution’s 19th Amendment, I am turning 18. This November, I will be proud to cast my ballot for Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers. Representing Eastern Washington in the U.S. House of Representatives, our congresswoman’s principled leadership continues to reach across party lines and inspire the rising generation of leaders to worktogether to tackle problems. Ranked in the 94th percentile for bipartisanship in the House of Representatives by the independent Lugar Group (2019), our congresswoman continues to stand out as a role model and lead by example in the midst of fierce partisan division crippling the legislative process. By reelecting Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Eastern Washington will be ensuring that we have a passionate collaborator and public servant representing and advocating for us in the People’s House. Thank you! Katie Kenlein Dear Editor,
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Dave Wilson, my choice for Spokane’s 5th Congressional District, is worthy of your vote no matter your party affiliation. He has the passion and commitment to serve with distinction. It is time for a change to Dave Wilson who has the courage and experience to stand up for what is right.
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Having served in leadership positions on several community and professional boards, he is openminded and fair-minded. We do not need any more Cathy McMorris Rodgers who has aligned herself with Trump who does not represent our American ideals. NOT once has she ever questioned him or had the courage to tell him he was wrong—not about the virus, not about mocking the handicapped, not about the bounty paid for our soldiers, and the list goes on.
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received by the 15th of the month in order for the subscription to begin with the issue printed the end of that month. Correction policy The Splash strives for accuracy in all content. Errors should be reported immediately to 242-7752 or by email to editor@libertylakesplash.com. Confirmed factual errors will be corrected on this page in the issue following their discovery. Advertising information Display ad copy and camera-ready ads are due by 5 p.m. on the 15th of the month for the following month’s issue. Call 242-7752 for more information. Advertising integrity ingly accepted. Complaints about advertisers should be made in writing to the Better Business Bureau and to advertise@libertylakesplash.com. The Splash is not responsible for the content of or claims made in ads. Copyright © 2020 All rights reserved. All contents of The Splash may not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
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Index of advertisers
Following are the local advertisers in this issue of The Splash.
Amaculate Housekeeping
19
Inland Empire Utility CC
Banner Furnace & Fuel
12
John L Scott - Pam Fredrick
4
7
John L Scott - Sheila Lackie
23
City of Liberty Lake
20
Eagle Rock RV and Boat Storage
10
John Roskelley
21
East Valley ECEAP
20
Liberty Lake EyeCare Center
10
Estates ad Elders
24
Liberty Lake Family Dentistry
5
Friends of Lance Gurel
21
Liberty Lake Farmers Market
29
Friends of Lori Feagan
30
Liberty Lake Sewer & Water District 10
Friends of Mary Kuney
4
Liberty Lake Smile Source
10
Greater Spokane Valley Chamber
3
Lilac Family Eyecare
23
Greenstone 32
Marc Rubin
5
Mike Padden for State Senate
9
Simonds Dental Group
32
Spokane Family Dental
8
Spokane Gymnastics Spokane Transit Authority Waste Management
23 4 29
Windermere 9 Service Directory
28
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30 • OCTOBER 2020
HISTORY
The Splash
The Splash
Liberty Lake Community Chalk Walk By Nina Culver
Splash contributor
The recent Chalk and Walk event that brought Liberty Lake residents out of their homes to draw chalk art on their sidewalks and in parks was apparently a rousing success. The idea for the event came from a sidewalk chalk art contest done earlier this year in Bellingham, said Liberty Lake Operations and Maintenance Director Jennifer Camp. It was held on Sept. 5, the day the Spokane Symphony concert would have been held if it wasn’t cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s kind of an informal way of providing an event to the community,” Camp said. “It’s our version of a holiday celebration.” Community members could complete their work of sidewalk art and then register online so people could come by and look at the art. The walkways in the city’s parks were also transformed into artist canvases, with socially distant squares blocked off for whoever wanted them. Fifteen families signed up to be a part of the walking chalk art tour and each family did multiple designs, said city activities and events coordinator Anita Eylar. Many more came to city parks to participate, with Pavillion Park, Rocky Hill Park and Orchard Park the most popular. Bob Schneidmiller, a member of the Liberty Lake Parks and Art Commission and the Liberty Lake Kiwanis, said he went around to as many parks as he could during the event. “It was so much fun to watch the little ones, particularly,” he said.
ON THAT NOTE He described one little boy, about 4 or 5 years old, whose nose was nearly touching the concrete as he drew, so great was his concentration. “All of his focus was on his art,” he said. “It was kind of amazing to watch him.” A call to artists was also put out to professional artists and the Liberty Lake Kiwanis sponsored a $300 prize for the winning artist. The chalk art designed by the artist was supposed to be inspired by the new mural in Pavillion Park. The initial winner selected was artist Tannea Zollinger, but she became ill and couldn’t attend the event. A new winner, local artist Stacie Boyer, was selected. Schneidmiller said he got a chance to see Boyer create her piece in Pavillion Park. “She just worked and worked and worked,” he said. “I’m an art lover, but to stand there and watch it being done in person was something I’d never done before.” Boyer said she’d worked with the city of Liberty Lake before on art projects. Her art is featured on two different utility boxes in town. A city employee that she’s worked with before mentioned the art contest to her. Tight on time, she submitted a simple concept. “I just gave them a black and white line drawing,” she said. The mural in Pavillion Park includes musicians playing their instruments while riding on animals on a carrousel. All the figures are actual musicians that performed in Liberty Lake over the years. Boyer went out to see the mural and what jumped out to her was a frog that one of the musicians was riding. “I wanted to include something from the mural,” she said. “I love animals. I do people every once and awhile, but I do a lot of animals and birds.” Her chalk art features a pond lined with rocks with a frog perched on
OCTOBER 2020 • 31
Photo by Nina Culver Professional artist winner Stacie Boyer. For a full list of winners see page 7. one of the rocks. He’s playing a horn shaped like a flower with butterflies coming out the end of it. “I thought, what would a frog play?” she said. “A flower trumpet horn seemed appropriate.” Boyer has illustrated children’s books and she said she was trying to make her work surrealistic and whimsical. “I have a children’s illustration background, so that’s where my mind goes,” she said. “I was trying to make some of the elements look three dimensional. Shadows are important. You have to use a lot of shade and highlights.” Boyer has more than 20 years of experience in art and graphic design and co-founded Art Lab Spokane, where she teaches art classes. “I’m mostly a painter in acrylics, but just recently I started doing sculptural garden art,” she said. Doing the chalk mural was a step outside of her normal zone, but Boyer
said she was confident going in. “This is actually the first chalk mural I’ve done,” she said. “I’ve done chalk on paper before, but nothing like this. You just have to believe in yourself.” It was a different experience to create her mural in public with people watching, she said. “I talked to dozens of people that day,” she said. “It’s slightly challenging, because you’re trying to work.” A protective coating was put over the mural, but even with that it was noticeably faded after a week. Boyer said she knows it will eventually wash away. “It’s a cool art form,” she said. “It also makes it more important because it’s not permanent.” Schneidmiller said he was pleased by the Chalk and Walk and said he’s heard discussion about it becoming an annual event. “For a first-year event, I think it was great,” he said. “The city is always looking for an event that will draw the community together.”
Community Essentials We’re doing our part. At Spokane Transit, our essential employees are dedicated to maintaining public transit in our community. Read our stories at SpokaneTransit.com/CommunityEssentials
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Paratransit Van Operator
32 • OCTOBER 2020
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