May 2021 Splash by The Liberty Lake Splash

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Guide to Dine! Liberty Lake restaurants are ready to see you again page 10

HUMBLE LEADS THE LIBRARY PAGE 2

HULL TWINS TO NCAA PAGE 18

HELPING MEET DEMAND PAGE 23

2 • MAY 2021

The Splash

DOCKSIDE Humble Leader - New library director embraces role By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

Jandy Humble doesn’t have any remarkable stories of becoming a reading savant. The newest director of the Liberty Lake Municipal Library wasn’t churning through the collected works of Jane Austen or John Steinbeck before she learned to walk. Instead, reading was – at least initially – an uphill climb. Humble remembers her mother kindly and persistently teaching the basics of words and comprehension. The patient approach would leave a lasting impression on the future librarian.

earning bookmarks and award pins as part of the accomplishment. The recognition from her teacher stayed with her. “I felt so special,” she said. Humble attended high school at a charter school – Utah County Academy of Science – on the campus of a community college. She graduated in 2010 with her high school diploma and an associate of arts degree. When she enrolled at Utah Valley University, Humble initially took an interest in political science and considered pursuing a

law degree. She eventually decided to major in English Literature after having an epiphany that shed light on her love of books. “I’d go to the campus bookstore in between classes and just read,” Humble recalls. While in college, she found a part-time job at a public library working at the front desk. After graduating, Humble latched on with the law library at Brigham Young University while also working for the library at her alma mater. The pursuit of a master’s degree in Library Science followed through an online program at the University of Alabama. During her last year of master’s

Humble became only the third library director in the history of Liberty Lake in late March when she replaced Jocelyn Redel who stepped away to work for her family’s business. Humble has been a mainstay at the Liberty Lake Library since 2015 when she was hired as Youth Services librarian. She began only a month after moving to the community with her husband Jake. The couple are proud parents of a baby daughter.

In the third grade, Humble read the entire “American Girl” series,

The application process featured an on-site interview that included Humble conducting a children’s storytime. She passed with flying colors and was hired that September. From Nerf Wars to glow-inthe-dark miniature golf and more, Humble was known for her creative programming that made the library diverse and entertaining. She credits inaugural director Pamela Mogen for giving her the freedom to introduce innovative ideas.

“I struggled a little bit at the beginning but my mom kept with it,” Humble recalls. “Then I found books I really liked and that made a big difference.”

Humble grew up in Pleasant Grove, Utah, a town as charming and bucolic as its name. The oldest of four children, she took dance lessons and was on the swim team growing up. Her dad was a teacher. She remembers her mom aspiring to be a librarian and instilling a love for reading with Humble and her sisters. Each week, a cloth grocery bag was filled with new books from the local library. Reading for 30 minutes was included on a list of daily family chores.

work, Humble began applying for library jobs in Utah. While she had originally leaned toward becoming an academic librarian with a focus on technical services and research, talking with several children’s librarians and taking classes in that field shifted her focus. When Humble and her husband moved to the Inland Northwest in August of 2015 – following in the footsteps of her in-laws who had relocated to Greenacres four years earlier – the job posting for a Youth Services librarian in Liberty Lake seemed serendipitous.

“Being a children’s librarian is one of the most fun jobs you can have,” Humble said. “You get to read books to kids and plan so many fun activities.” Humble’s duties as director now include overseeing staff, community outreach, budget and daily operations. “This job is more administrative, looking at the big picture of what the library environment can be,” she said. Q: When did you first think that you might want to be a librarian?

Photo by Craig Howard Jandy Humble became only the third director in the history of the Liberty Lake Municipal Library in March, replacing Jocelyn Redel. Humble first began working for the library in September 2015 as Youth Services librarian. She has an undergraduate degree in English Literature from Utah Valley University and a master’s degree in Library Science from the University of Alabama.

A: Growing up as a kid, I remember my mom telling me she wanted to be a librarian when she grew up. She took us to the library almost every week. I loved picking out huge stacks of books and bringing them home to read. I didn’t think about being a librarian until my first semester of college, when I spent all my time in between classes sneaking books off the shelves in the bookstore to read in a quiet corner. See HUMBLE, Page 5

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4 • MAY 2021

SVFD Report – April 2021

Media Release

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Spokane Valley Fire Department crews responded to a total of 105 emergency calls in the greater Liberty Lake area* from March 15 – April 15, 2021 Emergency Medical Services 81 Motor Vehicle Accidents 10 Building Alarms 7 Dispatched and Cancelled en route 4 Service Calls 2 Hazardous Materials 1 The *Service area for SVFD Station #3 in Liberty Lake • Calls saw an decrease from 111 last month to 105 this month. • Emergency Medical Services saw an decrease from 87 calls last month to 81 calls this month. • Building Alarm saw an increase from 4 last month to 7 this month • Motor Vehicle Accidents saw an increase from 4 last month to 10 this month.

Fire protection agencies and the local air quality agency are asking our community to review and follow outdoor burning rules due to an increase in calls for possible illegal burning. Now that spring and warmer weather conditions are here, many community members are resuming outdoor yard work and spring cleaning. To keep air quality clean and reduce area fire risk, area agencies throughout all of Spokane County want to remind community members that burning of garbage, including construction material, and the use of burn barrels is prohibited statewide. Burning outdoors, including yard debris, is not allowed in most areas of Spokane County. Recreational fires are allowed at this time if requirements are met. Outdoor burning regulations and requirements can be viewed at SpokaneCleanAir.org/burning. Recreational fires that get outof-control are a common cause of wildfires caused by people. A person can be held financially responsible

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for the cost of fire department response and any property damage caused.

burning-conditions or call the Burn Status hotline at (509) 477-4710.

“Be Fire Smart” and follow the burning requirements:

Alarm System , March 21 – Spokane Valley Fire crews respoded to a call for a reported smoke and CO alarm going off in a residence. Crews found the homeowner in the driveway upon arrival. The oven was on auto clean in the home when the alarms began going off. There was no smoke or fire present. The resident tried different techniques to get the alarms to stop without success. Engine 3 crews arrived and entered the house. A CO alarm on the hallway wall and a smoke detector on the living room wall were both chirping. The hand held CO detector read zero CO in the residence. The walls near the stove also registered nothing on the TIC meter, and they did no heat register in the void spaces. The chirping detectors were removed and found to be almost 20 years old and out of date. The resident is replacing all the detectors in the home and was instructed to call if there were any

• Only burn clean, dry firewood or manufactured logs, • Recreational fires cannot be used for disposal of anything, including natural yard/garden vegetation, • Burn 25’ away from any structure, like a house, garage, or fence, • Have an extinguisher charged water hose nearby, •

Stay near the fire,

• Fires can be no larger than 3’ wide and 2’ tall, and •

Put out the fire completely!

Typically, during July through September outdoor burning is restricted by fire officials due to fire danger. Always check current burn conditions before starting any fire. For information on current burn conditions, visit https:// www.spokanecleanair.org/current-

Incidents

See SVFD REPORT, Page 13

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MAY 2021 • 5

The Splash

HUMBLE

Continued from page 3 I found a job at local public library so that I could learn more about working in a library and fell in love. Q: It took a little while for you as a kid to catch on to reading. Did this experience teach you any lessons that you were able to incorporate into your work as a children’s librarian? A: As a kid, reading did not come easy at first. The biggest impact for me was finding books that I actually liked to read. The suggestion that I give to parents when they have a struggling reader is finding books that pertain to their child’s interests. Kids are going to want to read more when they are reading something that they find interesting or enjoy. As a librarian, I love when kids come up to my desk and ask me to help them find a book. Q: In this digital, remote age, how would you characterize the contemporary library as a destination place that holds value? Are we headed toward all-virtual libraries at some point in the future? A: No, I don’t believe we are headed to all-virtual libraries. During COVID, we received calls daily from people asking when we were going to re-open. Libraries today are more than just “book warehouses.” They are community gathering places for both learning and entertainment. You can check out books but you can also go to storytime, take a gardening class, have a Nerf war, get help with your taxes or design and print something out on a 3D printer. The things you can do in a library are almost endless. Q: When you first arrived in Liberty Lake in 2015 how long did it take you to realize the importance of the library to this community? A: Over the past five years, I’ve seen again and again how much Liberty Lake loves its library. This was most recently evident over the past year as we have been closed to the public. We received calls every day from people asking when we were going to open. Since starting as a children’s librarian in 2015, I have seen so many of the same families each week at storytime, afterschool programs and checking out books.

We’ve also had two ballot measures since I’ve been here so it’s obvious how much this community loves its library. Q: I’m guessing that the average person who visits a library has little idea of all that goes into this profession. Is it fair to say that there are many unseen layers that contribute to running a successful library? A: The average person probably thinks that all a librarian does is check out books. Each of our staff members wear many hats. Our clerks check in and check out books and shelve. Our techs process new books, catalog, order books through ILL and coordinate volunteers. Our librarians order new books, plan and put on all of our programs, answer reference questions, maintain our website and social media pages, just to name a few of our tasks in a day. It is a lot of work, but we all love the variety and love where we work so it’s worth it! Q: Now that you are director of the library, how much autonomy will you have when it comes to instituting ideas, programs and activities that make sense to you? A: In my opinion one of the jobs of the director is “the big picture.” What is your library today? What do you want the library to be in the future? As the director you examine how the library is running what you are doing well and what changes need to be made to make it better. In order to do that as the director, I want to stay involved in things like checking out books and hosting Move & Groove Storytime. This way I can continue to maintain relationships with our patrons and see firsthand what’s going on in the library and how we can improve. Q: Your predecessor Jocelyn Redel was heavily involved in the Community Needs Assessment and Library Master Plan. What will be your role moving forward with this initiative? A: In 2018, the library worked with a consultant to develop a strategic plan and the consultants completed a space needs assessment of the library. My role will be to continue making changes to the library that were recommended by the consultants. In addition to working alongside the library board, the City Council and the community to plan for the future of our library.

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6 • MAY 2021

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Police Report - March 2021 Splash news sources

Total incidents generated by Officers and emergency calls for service last month 702 Traffic Collisions/Hit & Runs / Injury Collisions 8 Citations (Traffic/Criminal/NonCriminal) 38 DUI (Driving Under Influence) 0 Thefts / Vehicle Prowls / Vehicle Theft / Burglaries 24 Malicious Mischief 3 Argument / Assault DV / Simple Assault / Assault w/a Weapon 11 Parking Violations 6 Suspicious Vehicles 45 *The above numbers are as of 03/31/21

Least Most

Burglary, 03/02/21; Officers responded to a report of an attempted Burglary at the Nom Nom Store located at 22000 block of E. Appleway Ave. Officers checked the store and discovered the glass door had been broken out. Officers observed there were several pepperoni sticks missing from the store. K9 Deputies responded to assist in tracking the suspect. The K9 lead them east on Appleway towards the RV park where they found jerky along the sidewalk. Officers lost track of the suspect near the entrance of an RV, but were able to review camera footage from the store that assisted in the possible identification of the subject. The following day officers responded to the trailer and arrested the suspect who was wearing the same clothes. He then admitted to the Burglary and eating a bunch of jerky stolen from the store. Burglary, 03/05/21; Officers responded to an audible alarm at the

21000 block of E. George Gee Ave. and observed the east roll up door had been pried open. They began to check the building and noticed a male inside who began to run. The Officers set a perimeter with the assistance of Spokane County and later found the male inside a vehicle located across the street at an area apartment complex. The male later admitted to the burglary and was charged with burglary, malicious mischief and theft for the items taken from vehicles. Domestic Violence, 03/24/2021; Officers responded to a report of domestic violence at the 22000 E Appleway Ave. Upon arrival, Officers made contact with the both parties involved. Through their investigation, it was determined the male was the primary aggressor and he was taken into custody. Officers transported the male to the Spokane County Jail on charges of Assault 4th DV.

circles contain the number of incidents in a given area.

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, 03/29/21; While conducting a traffic stop near the intersection of Liberty Lake Road and Appleway Avenue, the male driver immediately exited the vehicle and began walking towards the officers. The male was immediately detained and officers located brass knuckles on his person. When asked if there were any further weapons inside the vehicle, the male advised the officers there was a firearm. Officers asked the female passenger to exit the vehicle and she refused to do so initially. Officers than observed the pistol on the floor of the driver’s side seat. The passenger appeared to reach for the firearm and was then physically removed from the vehicle after which the firearm was safely removed as well. Further investigation revealed the male was a convicted felon. He was arrested for felony possession of a firearm. Stay well and be safe!

MAY 2021 • 7

The Splash

The Lookout Community garden plots bloom in popularity When you ask a resident of Liberty Lake what their favorite part of the community is, you may receive a few different answers. Some will say the Farmers Market; some the pedestrian-friendly access to local shops and beautiful scenery; others most certainly would say the beloved goats that keep our green spaces looking neat and tidy. What you will also most certainly hear is a resounding love for the community garden plots. Started in the early 2010s, the first location was the Arboretum Gardens, located on the pedestrian

City, STCU host free mobile vaccination clinic

The Liberty Lake community has been extremely proactive in maintaining their individual health and the well-being those around them during the COVID-19 pandemic. From simple things such as masking up and maintaining social distance, to limiting gatherings and ordering take-out instead of dine-in, residents have truly done everything they can to propel us towards “normal” again. Recently, it was announced that anyone over the age of 16 would be eligible to receive a vaccine for the COVID-19 virus. A variety of organizations in the Spokane area have been distributing the vaccine for some months now and with this new update, the time slots to get vaccinated are sure to be in high demand. The city of Liberty Lake, in partnership with STCU as a cosponsor, is happy to announce our part in making sure those in the community are vaccinated by introducing a one-day mobile vaccination clinic. Made possible by The Department of Health, Air National Guard and the Team 6 Mobile Vaccination Unit, the event will take place on Friday, May 7 from 2 to 6 p.m. Residents can sign up for a time slot to get vaccinated at the STCU Headquarters parking

path behind City Hall’s maintenance shop along the golf course. Due to the popularity, the Rocky Hill Gardens were then added to accommodate for the high demand. Just a few years back, the Rocky Hill Gardens received a much-needed facelift, only adding to resident interest. It is an understatement to say that the community truly loves to garden and that the community plots are in high demand every year.

City Hall was finally able to open for appointments and most general business again. While City Hall was not yet fully open, plot registration was in full swing at 8 a.m. on April 1. Within the first day, nearly half of all the plots were reserved, some by return gardeners whose bounties have caught the eye of those passing by for years and some by newcomers eager to be a part of such a beloved tradition.

Due to COVID, the registration process was pushed back for 2021 until the beginning of April, when

This year, because plot registration was pushed back so far, the city still has a few plots left for anyone

lot located off Signal Drive in Liberty Lake. Prompt sign-up is encouraged as time slots are limited.

Pickle ball is back and better than ever

If you are interested in getting the Moderna vaccine at this free mobile clinic, please visit the city of Liberty Lake’s website (www.libertylakewa. gov) or Facebook page for the registration link, or type the following address in manually to obtain the proper paperwork: https://bit. ly/3xb3Wmi Information regarding the Moderna vaccine can be found on the Department of Health’s website, or again, by entering the following link manually: https://www.modernatx. com/covid19vaccine-eua/ We hope to see members of the community take part in this free event and continue the efforts to bring us back to a sense of “normal” again!

City goat crew makes heralded return

Liberty Lake’s celebrated goats began their season at Trailhead Golf Course and have since been moved to Rocky Hill Park. Each day the municipal crew provides hay, fresh water and a little sweet feed (goat candy!) to supplement their grazing habits. This is done seven days a week and often early in the mornings. There have had a couple of escape artists from time to time

Spring has sprung and Liberty Lake residents know how to appreciate a stunning spring day. From walking, running, cycling and of course taking their four-legged friends on a much-loved walk, when the sun begins to shine again in Liberty Lake, you can be certain the smiles of the community shine along with it. Tennis and pickle ball are among the favorite warm-weather activities in our community. A pick-up sport only growing in popularity, pickle ball has piqued the interest of many residents in Liberty Lake. So much so, that just a few years back, the city took the initiative to stripe the

and the community has done a fantastic job of alerting staff when this happens and even helping return them to their stomping grounds. Keep in mind, when the goats do escape, they generally don’t stray too far from the pack as they are bonded pack animals and don’t like to be alone. Please feel free to stop by and say hello to them! They love the attention from all of you! And a reminder not to feed them human food, but it is OK to pick a weed near the pen and let them chow down right out of your hand!

May 2021 interested. While we cannot guarantee availability, we can guarantee that if you are one of the lucky few to snag a remaining plot, the fee will remain just $25 for the season which typically runs from the end of April until the end of October, weather permitting. Registration can be done at City Hall, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until closing at 5 p.m. Cash, cards and checks are all accepted for payment. For any questions regarding remaining plots or questions about the gardens in general, please call City Hall at (509) 755-6700, or email Tait at thunter@libertylakewa.gov.

tennis courts at the local parks to accommodate for the beginnerfriendly sport. The courts at all three parks, Orchard, Pavillion and Rocky Hill, are striped to allow for pickle ball play as well as standard tennis usage. Tennis nets are always up but with a rented key from City Hall at no charge, park-goers can gain access to locked storage boxes at the courts which contain pickle ball supplies. The supplies include nets, paddles and balls. For those who have their own supplies, the courts are always first-come/first-serve to the public outside of specific reservations. Renting a key is easy! Just stop by City Hall between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and a staff member will have the user fill out a quick form for contact information and provide a key to a specific box depending where the user wants to play. Once users are finished with their game, the city asks that keys are returned to the small key drop boxes that are located at the park. From there, a staff member will get the key, so users don’t have to worry about bringing the key back to City Hall. For information on the courts, the process, or general park/ facility rental information, please call City Hall at (509) 7556700 or email Tait at thunter@ libertylakewa.gov.

https://www.facebook.com/libertylakewa • www.libertylakewa.gov

8 • MAY 2021

Liberty Lake City Council News and Notes – May 2021 By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

• Mayor Cris Kaminskas read a proclamation on April 6 declaring April 18-24 National Infertility Awareness Week in Liberty Lake. Kaminskas shared her personal connection to the issue, saying it is “near and dear to my heart.” While noting that she was adopted, Kaminskas said she and her husband “went through a lot” in the process of having their son, Kyle, now 18. “When I was asked to consider this proclamation, I was happy to,” Kaminskas said. One-in-eight couples have difficulty sustaining a pregnancy. • Council Member Annie Kurtz held her first virtual “office hour” April 15 as a way to gather feedback from residents. She hopes to launch a commission on community engagement as part of an enhanced effort to involve citizens in local government. • Kaminskas and Council Member Dan Dunne both encouraged residents to exercise precautions related to COVID-19. The mayor noted that Spokane County cases have been rising. “We all need to stay vigilant in keeping our numbers down,” the mayor said. • The city and STCU will host a one-day mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinic on Friday, May 7 from 2 to 6 p.m. Residents can reserve a time slot at the STCU Headquarters parking lot located off Signal Drive in Liberty Lake. Those interested in getting the Moderna vaccine at the free mobile clinic should visit the city of Liberty Lake’s website (www. libertylakewa.gov) or Facebook page for the registration link, or type the following address in manually to obtain the

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https://bit.

and city-sponsored display are both scheduled to take place.

• Council approved the mayor’s appointment of two additions to the Planning Commission on April 20. Chris Cargill was confirmed as a voting member while Conrad Band was welcomed as an adjunct member.

• Kaminskas said there has been talk about designing a T-shirt to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Liberty Lake incorporation this August.

proper paperwork: ly/3xb3Wmi.

• There is an opening on the Board of Library Trustees and the Salary Commission as well as for a new library technician. • The Liberty Lake Farmers Market will make its 2021 debut on Saturday May 15. The outdoor market – located at 1421 N. Meadowwood Lane – will once again feature local produce, a variety of artisan booths, live music and a diverse lineup of food. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., each Saturday through Oct. 9. The market will observe all COVID-19 safety protocols from the Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. • The city announced several new hires including Finance Director Kyle Smith, Project Manager Phil Messick, Children’s Library Associate Erin Smith and Police Officers Mike Marroquin and Mike Zhou. • A workshop on the Trailhead Golf Course will take place May 7 from noon to 5 p.m. • In her report on April 6, City Administrator Katy Allen announced that the Rotary Memorial Day Ceremony will take place on May 31. • The Friends of the Library will host a book sale in the parking lot of the library on June 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Summer Soiree is scheduled for July 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Liberty Lake Wine Cellars. The event is a fundraiser for the library with tickets available for $30. Ticket sales and basket auction are both online at www. libertylakefriends.org. Both events will follow COVID guidelines in place at the time. • The Liberty Lake Community Fourth of July Community Parade in Alpine Shores has been cancelled this year. The Fourth of July fireworks show over the lake

• After months of discussion about installing term limits for elected officials, council voted 5-2 against pursuing the idea. “My worry is that we potentially force out high-quality people that citizens don’t want to be forced out,” said Council Member Hugh Severs who voted in the majority. “The mechanism that I think is most appropriate is to have voters speak every four years at the polls.” • Council voted to accept an application from the Central Valley School District for annexation of land near Ridgeline High School. No final determination has been made to this point on the property, currently located in unincorporated Spokane County. Council also approved a change in zoning and land use related to the potential annexation. • The deadline to file as a candidate for this year’s election cycle is May 21. In Liberty Lake, City Council seats currently held by Mike Kennedy, Hugh Severs and Odin Langford will be on the ballot. Positions currently held by Mayor Kaminskas and Council Member Holly Woodruff – both appointed to fill empty seats earlier this year – will also be up for election. There are two years remaining on both of those respective terms. • Joe Mann of the Planning Commission told council on April 6 that the group is recommending changes to the sign code, noting the existing guidelines do not include “blade signs” which stand out 90 degrees from a building and are often utilized by smaller retail establishments in mixed use areas. Loosened restrictions on neon signs are also part of the commission’s recommendations but will include restrictions on illumination.

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City looks at trimming back landscape guidelines By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

Since the early days of incorporated Liberty Lake, the city has placed a priority on aesthetics over asphalt. Trees and turf, green buffers and shrubbery have ranked high in requirements for new development, resulting in a signature look that has distinguished Spokane County’s easternmost jurisdiction from its municipal neighbors. While the focus on foliage has set Liberty Lake apart, finding a happy medium between rigorous landscape standards and the needs of local businesses has presented a variety of challenges. On April 6, Joe Mann from the Planning Commission gave City Council an update on proposed changes to the current landscaping code. Mann noted that it may be time to scale back an ordinance that has created hurdles for new and existing commercial development. “It came about because we found that our current code requires a very prescriptive solution to landscaping for commercial properties,” Mann said. “What we found, over time, is that we were overplanting, putting in too many trees, too many shrubs. We wanted to find a better solution, a more collaborative solution.” Mann said the expense of the existing code has been burdensome for developers while current business owners have found it difficult to maintain landscaping required by the city. The Planning Commission first addressed potential amendments to the landscape code in October 2019 and have held eight workshops and one public hearing since then. A stakeholder group, featuring a variety of landscape architects, took part in the discussions. “This came about because of challenges we were seeing in the way

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NEWS

our landscape code was structured and in frustrations we were hearing from business owners,” said Planning, Engineering and Building Director Lisa Key.

In an April 20 workshop on the landscape ordinance, Key gave council an overview of the existing code as well as proposed changes. She gave the example of a commercial site of just over an acre that required 40 trees in addition to the existing trees on Stanford Lane and Country Vista Drive. “We want to get away from our prescriptive methodology and really provide for more designer creativity and using performancebased guidelines,” Key said. “We recognize it is important to maintain the tree canopy in the city while allowing for some flexibility in different configurations.” Key said while streetscape aesthetics are still valued, “we also want to be able to see businesses from the right-of-way.” Other priorities in the proposed changes include enhancing safety in landscape design with specific consideration for pedestrians and bicyclists, vehicle ingress and egress, water conservation through native plants and xeriscaping and incentivizing the preservation of existing trees instead of replacements. The recommendations would slim the landscape buffer section in the current code from three pages to a few simple tables. Guidelines for landscaping in commercial parking lots would also be eased under the proposal. “We made it easier and more approachable,” Key said. “This provides more flexibility.” Council will discuss the Planning Commission’s blueprint for landscaping code revisions at a public hearing on May 4. Capital facilities conversation Council held a retreat on March 30 to discuss capital facility priorities On April 6, a workshop before the normally scheduled meeting provided an opportunity to review the city’s top objectives. Key led the discussion, pointing to the leading three capital priorities according to a survey of council members. A familiar project – upgrades to the Trailhead Golf facility – headed up the wish list,

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followed by improvements to the library. Expansion of the meeting room at City Hall placed a distant third. Orchard Park community gardens, a Fallen Heroes station at the same park and the Town Square Master Plan came in as the next three priorities. Other projects on the list included a dog park, community message board in the River District, golf cart charging station at City Hall and Town Square Park expansion. Based on feedback from council, Key said her department would be reformatting the next Capital Facilities Plan, covering years 20222027, with individual categories addressing parks, facilities, transportation, rolling stock and technology. “We’re going to create separate chapters,” Key said. “It’s going to make it a lot easier to look at the difference projects and understand.” Debt service discussion As part of the capital facilities subtext, Finance Director RJ Stevenson provided council with a summary of approaches to debt service on April 6. Stevenson said the city’s approach to debt service has changed since 2005 when the money came out of the general budget. “We have more departments, more operational costs than we did 15 years ago,” he said.

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Stevenson said there was a time when the city was paying close to $400,000 in debt service a year related to sites like City Hall, Trailhead and Town Square Park. The city paid off a 15-year bond on Trailhead early in 2011 and the debt on remaining notes has now been retired. The purchase of City Hall was tied to a $1.2 million bond over 15 See CITY COUNCIL, Page 13

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Stevenson advised the city to consider using REET (Real Estate Excise Tax) funds to pay off debt for capital expenditures. “I would recommend looking at the REET funds with the general fund backing it up,” he said. “That way, your operations aren’t competing with your debt service payments.”

MAY 2021 • 9

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COVER STORY

10 • MAY 2021

Liberty Lake Restaurants are ready to satisfy your cravings By Ben Wick

Splash Publisher

While we are all continuing to adapt to the ever changing rules surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to take this time, knowing the sun is coming and the patios are open, to high light some of our local restaurants.

They are having one of the most difficult times with all of the current restrictions and really could use our support. The good news is there are some delicious places right here in Liberty Lake for you to revisit, refamiliarize your self with, and get to know! Some of these are old favorites, a few have had some sprucing up and there are some new establishments that have faced the current hazards to join the ranks of serving Liberty Lake. We also want to recognize that the metrics the Governor has identified as the key metrics for determining which phase our community can be in don’t seem to

Barlows

1428 N Liberty Lake Rd - Every Day 7 am -9 pm

COVID-19 has really taken its toll and this establishment has been closed for the entire outbreak. Good news is they are planning their reopening for July 1st and are excited to be open to serve you! They will be offering all services including take out and dine in (including both patios) and some new features will be available, the bar renovation has been completed and artisan style appetizers have been added to the menu along with yummy healthy options.

The Splash

be doing so well at the moment. On May 3rd he will be doing another evaluation for our area to see if our business community can remain in phase three to stay open. Our local businesses will continue to need our help and support either way if they are going to be successful and make it through this current climate.

We hope that you will take this section of, put it on your fridge and get inspired by all of these dishes prepared for you by your neighbors, and that you will do your best this month, and throughout the summer season, to stop by and eat your fill to help a local small business survive. Liberty Lake Together!

To that end we have compiled some updates on what some of the local restaurants and eateries are planning as far as when they might open, what their current hours are and what take out or delivery options they may be offering to satisfy both your comfort level and be more convenient for you.

Bobby’s cafe and catering 1620 N Signal Dr (Inside STCU headquarters) Every Day 9 am -2 pm, catering available

Currently, Bobby’s Cafe is rolling out a new menu to begin May 1st. Now using EzCater platform for your catering needs at least 12 hours in advance of your event. Dine in with their patio seating, use their curbside pickup option, or get them delivered with DoorDash or uberEats in Liberty Lake.

ding how

1332 N Liberty Lake Rd - T - Sun 4 pm - 9 pm

Vibrant little restaurant that has been a favorite of locals going on 10 years. Check out their menu of Thai, Japanese, Chinese, and Suchi offerings. Call to order for pickup or come dine in.

921-1901

755-7999

bobbyscafecatering.com

924-1446

barlowsatlibertylake.com/

fieldhouse pizza

1235 N Liberty Lake Rd Suite 110 - Sun - W 11 am - 9 pm, TH - Sat 11 am - 10 pm

Now offering all day happy hour on Sunday and all you eat salad bar. Lots of specials throughout the week. See their social media to keep up with the latest specials. May Specials: 4 pm - 10 pm every Tuesday in May 5% of sales will go to Central Valley Seniors (Liberty Lake location only).

315-9611

yourfieldhouse.com

fujiyama

21801 E Country Vista Dr - See below for hours

Enjoy a show with your meal in an authentic Japanese dining experience. Dine in and curbside pickup available. M - TH 11 am - 2:30 pm, 4 pm - 9 pm F - Sat 11 am - 10 pm Sun Noon - 9 pm

903-0888

hay j’s bistro

21706 E Mission Ave - Every Day 3 am -8 pm

By offering take out options this business has managed to stay open throughout the difficult last year. They pride themselves on providing a dining experience that stimulates the senses and creates lasting memroies while feasting on their culinary delights. They are now accepting reservations for Mother’s Day with dinner service starting at noon. See their facebook page for updates and specials

926-2310

hayjsbistro.com

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hello sugar,

195 N Harvest Parkway - Th, Sat, Sun 7 am -5 pm, F 7 am - 9 pm

New to Liberty Lake, the most recent location of Hello Sugar offers all the same goodies of their other spots including locally roasted coffee, and their signature mini donuts in a variety of flavors, along with a little something extra. At this location only you can find special bistro style options like ciabatta sandwiches and fun Pizza Friday nights fresh from their concept kitchen. Open for dine in, pickup and delivery options. See menu and order online

COVER STORY mexico lindo

1235 N Liberty Lake Rd - Sun - Th 11 am -8 pm, F-Sat 11 am - 9 pm

With this restaurant opening January 2020, you may have not been able to try them out yet. A family owned business offering authentic mexican food. Currently open to 50% capacity, and since their space is small they have been utilizing doordash to bring their food to you! Call ahead and see wait times for dine in.

340-9387

mexicolindolibertylake.com/

MAY 2021 • 11

palenque mexican restaurant

1102 N Liberty Lake Rd - Sun - TH 11 am - 8 pm, F - Sat 11 am - 9 pm

A Liberty Lake staple for breakfast and mexican cuisine since 1993, their recipes are based out of Jalisco, Mexico. Pickup available Tues: 11 am - 7:30 pm Delivery available Tues: 4 pm - 7 pm Specials are listed on their facebook page.

928-3112

eatpalenque.com

443-4790

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pentagon

1400 N Meadowwood Ln - Every Day 11 am - 11 am

After a fire started outside and made it’s way into the restaurant April 2020 it took a while for repairs to be made. Although everything is finally ready for action, with the COVID restrictions still in place they have been unable to reopen. Currently owners are awaiting updates on Governor Inslee’s restrictions to determine when a reopen date might be. Follow their facebook page for updates

pho liberty Vietnamese Cuisine

23505 E Appleway Ave #100 - M - Sat 11 am - 7 pm Bringing Pho to Liberty Lake since 2019 when they took over the Twisp Cafe space. Offering drive-thru, take out and dine in options and delivery through GrubHub. Go in and check out their specials. Party trays also available.

598-8275

Piccolo kitchen bar

21718 E Mission Ave - Sun - Th 3 am -8 pm, F - Sat 3 pm - 9 pm

Piccolo Kitchen Bar is a cozy colorful spot in Liberty Lake to enjoy excellent brick oven fired artisan style pizza as well as pasta dishes, salad and more. When dining in a full bar including a unique specialty cocktail list, great wine and a variety of craft beer are available to choose from. These tasty bites are available with dine in, take out, or delivery with uberEats.

926-5900

piccolopizza.net/

891-7790

whitehousegrill.com/

Snow Eater Brewery

2325 N McKinzie Ln - T - TH 3 pm - 9 pm, F - Sat 1 Noon - 10 pm, Sun Noon - 8 pm

This brewery comes complete with their own kitchen full of goodies as well as special food truck night, trivia, and live music nights. They have heated outdoor undercover seating so you can enjoy their patio rain or shine. See their facebook for current events and specials.

862-6954

snoweaterbrewing company.com

Trailbreaker Cider

2204 N Madson Rd - Sun - TH Noon - 8 pm, F - S Noon - 9 pm

Forever rotating 24 tap system featuring locally made ciders derived from Washington apples. Full menu is available online including child friendly and gluten free options, like the gluten free fish and chips pictured below.

279-2159

trailbreakercider.com

True Legends

1803 N Hardvard Rd - M-F 11 am to 11 pm, Sat 9 am - Midnight, Sun 9 am - 10 pm

Continue to remain open for indoor and patio dining and will be starting live music in June Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Offering curbside pickup, delivery and online ordering to meet the needs of all patrons. Post specials, updates, and new items being added to their menu regularly on their facebook page.

892-3077

truelegendsgrill.com

12 • MAY 2021

The Splash

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Once water enters your sprinkler system it is no longer potable (drinking) water as it can become contaminated with pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and animal waste. These contaminants can enter the sprinkler system and water supply through broken sprinkler lines or heads, fall sprinkler blow out or a high demand event (such as a broken water main) on the public water system. If a backflow assembly is absent, not installed properly, or is not functioning properly, contaminated water from the sprinkler system can be forced back into your home’s water supply and/or the public water system. To protect water quality in your home and the public water supply, your sprinkler system is required to have a properly functioning backflow assembly.

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A backflow assembly is a mechanical valve designed to prevent the reverse flow of water from a point of hazard (sprinkler system) to the public water supply. Because backflow assemblies are mechanical devices, they must be tested annually to verify they are working properly. Backflow assemblies can fail over time or may become damaged from winter freezing or improper blowout in the fall. A properly functioning backflow assembly prevents these potentially hazardous substances from entering the water supply.

To ensure that the water system is properly protected and that all system users receive safe drinking water, the Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District (LLSWD) requires that all customers – residential, multifamily and commercial – test their backflow assemblies annually. Annual backflow assembly testing is required to ensure proper function of the assembly and protection of the water system. Testing must be performed by a Washington State certified Backflow Assembly Tester and must be completed by June 30 annually. If repairs are required, they usually can be completed at the time of the backflow test. After a successful test is completed, testers submit a test report to the LLSWD. The test reports are LLSWD’s method of confirming that backflow assemblies have been maintained and function properly so the system is safe for all users. LLSWD is required to have a Cross-Connection Control Program in accordance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 246-290-490. The purpose of the LLSWD's CrossConnection Control Program is to protect the public water system from contamination via crossconnections. For more information, please visit the LLSWD’s CrossConnection Control Program webpage for requirements, additional education resources, and a list of some local, Washington State certified Backflow Assembly Testers at https://libertylake.org/ utility/cross-connection-controlprogram/. If you have questions, please call LLSWD at (509) 9225443 or email us at backflow@ libertylake.org.

MAY 2021 • 13

The Splash

CITY COUNCIL Continued from page 9

years. Payments started in June 2004 at $108,000 a year and the city was able to pay off the note at the 10-year mark at an interest rate of 4.5 percent. Stevenson gave council a rundown of four different debt service scenarios – $2 million, $5 million, $7 million and $9 million. Interest rates vary based on the time span starting at 1.48 percent over 15 years, 1.81 percent over 20 years and 2.23 percent over 30 years. Stevenson recommended keeping any new debt service scenario to window of 15 to 20 years. City releases Brickner

statement

City Council held a special meeting on April 13 to address questions about former Mayor Shane Brickner residence status before he stepped down from his office at the end of 2020, citing health concerns. Resident Tom Stanley brought the issue to council in February with documentation that Brickner had moved outside city limits in late October and should not have held office for the remaining two months of the year based on Washington state law and the requirement that elected officials must live within the boundaries of the jurisdiction they represent. The city released the following public statement with Mayor Cris Kaminskas and Council Members Dan Dunne, Holly Woodruff, Hugh Severs and Annie Kurtz voting in support of the motion and Mayor Pro Tem Mike Kennedy and Council Members Phil Folyer and Odin Langford in the minority. Kennedy said he “disagreed with a particular section of the letter” but signed it “showing support for uniformity.” He also added, “Just because I voted no, doesn’t mean I don’t support the overall motion.” Citizens and Community: As many are aware, the City of Liberty Lake received complaints about former Mayor Shane Brickner’s qualifications to act as Mayor of the City over the course of his last two months in office, due to an alleged failure to satisfy certain residency requirements. Specifically, the complaints referred

to his decision to purchase a home outside City limits while also maintaining an apartment inside the City. The City retained the services of an independent third party to investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding his residency, which included multiple communications with Mr. Brickner. After review and consideration of the investigation, the City believes there is question about Mr. Brickner’s residency status. Although the investigator confirmed that he did in fact secure an apartment with the intent to reside at the apartment during his tenure as mayor, Mr. Brickner also admitted to the investigator that after suffering certain health events early in November 2020, which the investigator also confirmed, he chose to reside at his home outside the City, rather than at his apartment. The City recognizes, and the investigator confirmed, that Mayor Brickner continued to perform his duties throughout his term and prior to his resignation on December 31, 2020. The City has taken steps to confirm that any actions Mayor Brickner undertook during the last two months of his term were approved by the actions of the City Council, and therefore, do not require any further action by the City or City Council. However, the City is significantly disappointed that it was put in a position of having to address the question of Mayor Brickner’s residency status, when it was his responsibility, as the elected official, to continue to reside within the jurisdiction throughout his term. Additionally, members of the City Council were left to address his residential status without ever being made aware that Mayor Brickner had purchased a home outside of the City. The City Council disapproves of and condemns Mayor Brickner’s conduct that put us in this position. While we hope that Mayor Brickner’s health conditions improve, given the circumstances, the City Council believes it is necessary to take action at a public meeting to issue a public reprimand regarding Mayor Brickner’s apparent lack of residency.

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SVFD REPORT Continued from page 4 further issues. Motor Vehicle Collission, March 28 - Spokane Valley Fire was dispatched to a call for a vehicle collission with one vehicle observed in the median. Crews investigated the incident and determined that the vehicle had hit the barrier cables in the median and that only one vehicle was involved. The vehicle airbags deployed and the driver and only occupant was still in the vehicle. Crews helped the patient remove herself from the vehicle where she was then transported to AMR for care and to safety away from the freeway. Service Call Single Engine, April 7 - Spokane Valley Fire Department’s Rescue Task Force (RTF) responded to a request from Spokane County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) to assist the SCSO SWAT with a high risk warranty entry. RTF Crews stood by while entry to the premises were made. No casualties resulted. Working Fire, 1:30 p.m., April 10, for a report of a fire 10500 block of E. 14th Avenue. Fire personnel arrived first reporting visible smoke and flames on the exterior of the back side of the home and upgraded the fire to working house fire. A fire attack line was extended to the back exterior of the structure and performed a rapid application of water to the active fire to slow down and control with the potential to stop additional fire spread in structure. It was confirmed all occupants were out of the structure. The initial aggressive quick attack successfully controlled the fire allowing additional Valley Fire crews to enter the structure on the first floor through the living room and perform a rapid search of the

home and check for additional fire spread. The fire was confirmed to have spread interior to the attic space which was actively burning. The interior fire was quickly contained, and search completed but there was still fire damage to the back of the home extending to the back-porch deck, and into the attic for the length of the structure. Ladder crews did make access to the roof and using chainsaws cut ventilation holes in the structure to aid in fire control for the interior fire crews with fire hoses. Red Cross was called to aid the 10 occupants of the home in finding residential options as the home is currently unoccupiable. The rapid response and quick actions by Spokane Valley Fire Department saved the home from being a total loss and burning up completely. The cause of the fire is under investigation at the time of this press release. Working Fire, 12 p.m., April 15, to a shed, hay, and chicken coop on fire in the 5900 block of N Starr Road. An off-duty Firefighter was near the location and was able to relay information to Spokane Regional Emergency Communications regarding the fire. En route, SVFD Engine 4 (VE4) crews from the Otis Orchards Station could see a noticeable smoke column in the air. Upon arrival crews found the coop was fully involved and was approximately 200 feet away from the house on the property. The resident was trying to put the fire out with the garden hose. The chicken coop was a small 10x10 structure and was fully consumed by the fire and was quickly knocked down within a few moments of crews arriving to the location. The source of ignition is under investigation. Thankfully, all chickens were accounted for and no loss of chicken life occurred.

14 • MAY 2021

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Check and Connect Battles Isolation By Tie Lemerond Splash contributor

In late March 2020, at the beginning of the pandemic, Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern Washington (ALTCEW) began the Check and Connect program as a response to the need to assist current and potential clients with feelings of isolation and loneliness. This program initially became possible as a result of the Older Americans Act funding that was received through the CARES Act. Funding for this type of program is set aside for aging programs that are distributed to Area Agencies on Aging across the nation, like Aging & Long Term Care. The agency receives a regular annual allocation of Older Americans Act funding, so CARES Act funding was able to be used to grow existing programs to meet the needs of the pandemic such as senior home delivered meals, and to start new programs to assist older adults. Aging & Long Term Care will continue to receive funding through the Americans Act funding, so the Check and Connect program will continue once the funding from the CARES Act has diminished. Although the Older Americans Act funding has some limitations on what it can be used for, reassurance programs such as Check and Connect are a common way funding has been used across the United States during the pandemic. The Check and Connect program is a telephonic program that allows Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern Washington to work with volunteers who check in on clients to ensure their basic needs are being met, such as food and water supplies,

healthcare, and other needs. The program hopes to not only reduce victimization and health concerns, but also isolation during quarantine mandates. Program Coordinator Jessica Lehman, and a student intern work with volunteers who receive a brief training and orientation in addition to a full background check. After completing the training, volunteers are assigned a comfortable number of clients to contact once or twice per week. During these calls, volunteers make a connection with their clients. Volunteers talk to clients as if they were old friends: asking clients to share some of their fondest memories, laughing, listening to their concerns, and having a genuine conversation with them. “A lot of our clients are eager to receive their call,” states Stevens. “They report not feeling alone and “forgotten” because someone is checking in with them,” added Stevens. If volunteers have any indication client’s needs are not being met or have other concerns pertaining to the client, they then report that information back to the program coordinator. If needed, the next steps are determined by the coordinator and the client may speak to an Options Counselor or Information and Referral Staff to begin the process of further support or additional services. Kari Stevens, Community Living Connections Director for Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern Washington, has been with the

organization since October 2020. Stevens states, “Aging & Long Term Care of Eastern Washington offers services to anyone 60 years and older, or individuals who are disabled. Other than that, there are no restrictions on participation.” Any person fitting these criteria who would like to receive weekly calls, can reach out to the Community Living Connections department and they will then be connected to the Check and Connect program manager for assistance. Aging and Long Term Care has found Check and Connect to be extremely valuable to clients. Stevens states, “We are looking to sustain the program ongoing as we have found it valuable to clients, providing human connection, reducing loneliness and helping older adults connect to resources and remain safely in their homes for as long as possible.” The program is all telephonic, so this service can be offered to any person living within the Aging & Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington’s 5-county coverage area: Ferry, Stevens, Pend Oreille,

Spokane, and Whitman Counties. Check and Connect is currently serving approximately 70 clients per week and that number is increasing by roughly 5 new clients per week. With the consistently growing client list, volunteers are a crucial part of this program and are needed to help keep the community connected during this unprecedented time. Stevens encourages any person interested in assisting the aging population and adults with disabilities with regular phone calls to reduce isolation and stress, contact the program coordinator. Volunteers work remotely and can determine their own hours. All volunteers must have a cell phone and a computer. If you are interested in learning more about support services or have needs that are not being met, Check and Connect is there to help you reduce stress and isolation during the current quarantine mandates. Family members are encouraged and welcome to call and refer a loved one to the program as well. For more information on volunteering or becoming a client, please call 509-960-7281.

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MAY 2021 • 17

The Splash

Liberty Lake Farmers Market Opens Saturday, May 15 By Tie Lemerond Splash contributor

It is that time of the year, the time that so many Washingtonian’s look forward to. The city of Liberty Lake is gearing up for the kickoff of their ever-growing 19th annual Liberty Lake Farmers Market. The Liberty Lake Farmers Market was founded in 2002 by a brother and sister duo, Jim Frank and Susan Parker. As kids, they would climb into the family automobile and drive to Greenacres and the Valley to buy fresh produce. Jim has been interested in farmers markets his entire life. “These types of markets not only support local farming and access for the neighborhood to healthy, quality food but also create the opportunity to become a gathering place,” states Jim. Susan states, “The first year we

just hoped the farmers and other vendors would show up!” The duo enlisted a handful of volunteers and about 6 vendors. The community embraced the idea, and the Farmers Market has grown every year since. Holli Parker, in charge of market planning, said the 2020 season got off to a late start due to the pandemic, but the farmers, vendors, and market goers adjusted and followed the guidelines of the Washington State Farmers Market Association and the Spokane Regional Health District. “Booths need to be six feet apart, allowing for lines and social distancing of customers,” states Holli. “Hand washing/sanitation stations will be placed throughout and masks are required to be worn by both vendors and customers.” 63 vendors have signed up to take part in this year’s market, some of which are part-time, and some are full-time. Market goers can expect to see farmers and vendors from the following categories: crafters, artists, jewelry makers, watercolor paintings, crochet animals, fruits, vegetables, flowers, meat, wine, baked goods, all things CBD, eggs, spices, plus many more.

Vendors will be mixed up and spread out throughout the market site. The exception will be the prepared food vendors, which will be located in the “back half” of the parking lot next to Town Square Park. “The market will look very similar to last year’s market with vendors in Town Square Park along Meadowwood Lane, and in the parking lot on the East side of the Liberty Building, as well as on the “road” on the North side of the Liberty Building. For the most part, the farm market will be bigger and better than previous years. However, they are not allowed to have live music yet, but they will be setting up speakers so music can be heard throughout the day. Another unfortunate change is the fact that events like the annual Pie festival had to be put on “hold.” Some Vendors Highlights: Paul Puhek is on the board of directors for the Liberty Lake Farmers Market as well as a vendor at the market. Paul is an Otis Orchard farmer who will be bringing a large variety of vegetables including onions, carrots, beets, cabbage, green beans, and possibly sweet corn. Paul’s 40 chickens are graciously providing

him with eggs to bring to the farm market as well. Desserts by Sara will be back again this year with all of their deliciousness. If you can imagine it in a sugar cookie, they can make it. These cookies are almost too cute to eat, and their cakes are delicious beyond words. If you have an event or milestone coming up, stop by their booth and they will gladly take care of you. Ramstead Ranch, a family-owned farm who raises and sells grass-fed beef, grass-fed lamb, pasture raised Berkshire pork, and pasture raised poultry, will once again be taking part in the farm market. Holli has attended the farm market every year since its beginning in 2002. She writes, “Being there on the very first day of the market and seeing where it is now is amazing. We have such an incredible community and a city government that has embraced and supported us and the vendors.” Plan to stop by the farm market and support local farmers and vendors, socialize with family and friends, and grab a bite to eat from one of 11 food vendors.

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Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

Cooper Young has marched to success at Central Valley High School. The senior maintains a 3.99 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society. He serves as an officer in DECA, a business/ marketing club and has supported causes like Blessings Under the Bridge as part of the program. He delivers food as a volunteer, providing weekend nutrition for students in need. Young is a section leader for the CV marching band and has also participated in pep band and wind ensemble. He has served with the Liberty Lake Youth Commission since his freshman year. Young founded the first spikeball club at CV and won a national spikeball championship in a division category with CV alum Ryan Haggerty. Young will serve a mission in Mexico for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints beginning in July.

In a shortened soccer season, Zoe Crockett made the most of the opportunity. The Central Valley junior tallied 10 goals and five assists for a Bears’ squad that finished 8-3 and runner-up in the Greater Spokane League. “Being able to play five weeks was a blessing,” said Crockett who was named GSL co-Offensive MVP. In a 1-0 victory over Ferris, the junior center-forward netted the gamewinning goal in the 75th minute. Her two goals against Mt. Spokane set the tone in a 5-0 win. As a sophomore, Crockett scored 23 goals and was named to the All-GSL first team and All-State roster. She has played club soccer for the Spokane Sounders (formerly Shadow) since the sixth grade. Crockett maintains a 3.78 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society as well as DECA, a business/marketing club.

Dannetta (Dg) Garcia makes it a point to make a difference. She is the cofounder of the Blind Eye Effect, a program dedicated to the prevention of STIs and HIV/AIDS in the African American community. An Air Force veteran, Garcia received the Meritorious Achievement Medal for Heroism in 1986 for saving a trainee from suicide. Garcia worked for three state agencies in California and assisted in the design and implementation of DMV voter forms as well as the design of a voter registration affidavit. In 2017, Garcia was the catalyst in an effort to help fellow residents secure flood insurance that resulted in the city of Liberty Lake adopting the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Garcia has her master’s in Psychology from California State University. An accomplished artist, Garcia is the proud mom of two grown children. She has four grandchildren.

THE

LIBERTY LAKE

COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

Thanks you for all you do in our community

18 • MAY 2021

The Splash