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welcoming back community events for 2022 page 10 MEET COUNCILMEMBER CARGILL PAGE 2
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2 • APRIL 2022
The Splash
DOCKSIDE Seasoned Rookie – Cargill
brings layered skill set to council By Craig Howard
Splash Contributing Editor
As a news producer for KXLY TV, Chris Cargill was front and center when political notables like Newt Gingrich, John Kerry and John McCain made their way through Spokane. As a new member of the Liberty Lake City Council, Cargill now finds himself on the other side of interviews although the motivation of the Inland Northwest native rings similar.
prioritizing transparency. Decorum around the dais is also a focus for the first-year council member who brought a grasp of Robert’s Rules of Order and the traditional interchange that makes an agenda run smoothly. “I want to be as simple and straightforward as possible,” Cargill said. There have been a few bumps on the road early on as council colleagues Dan Dunne and Annie Kurtz have expressed concern about a possible conflict of interest with Cargill’s role as Eastern Washington director of the Washington Policy Center and topics he has brought up on certain meeting agendas, the most recent being a ban on any potential local income tax that was
passed by council on March 1. “I’m going to be an advocate for the position of the taxpayer,” Cargill said. “I insist that there’s not a conflict of interest. My position is the position of the citizens.” Cargill has emphasized the importance of Liberty Lake residents learning more about their local government and being invested in the discussion. “The more local a government is, the more it’s going to have a direct impact on your life,” he said. Cargill is about as local as they get. He can trace his family roots to his great, great great-grandfather Daniel Courchaine, an early settler in the area who was friends with the namesake of Liberty Lake, Steven
“I like informing people so they can make good decisions,” Cargill said.
“I remember coming into Liberty Lake as a kid,” Cargill said. “It was basically a McDonald’s and a Zip Trip. It’s been interesting to see all the changes.” Cargill took a year off after high school, working at the local Fred Meyer and Sears. He enrolled at Gonzaga University after that, majoring in Broadcast Communication Studies and minoring in Political Science.
“I wasn’t really pleased with the direction TV news was going,” he said. “I wanted to inform people.”
Last February, Cargill was one of 15 applicants for an appointment to the city’s governing board. The experience set the stage for his appearance on the ballot later that year.
At the Washington Policy Center, Cargill writes grants, leads outreach and fundraising efforts, conducts around 250 media interviews a year and writes a bi-weekly column in the Spokesman-Review. The think tank – a 501c3 nonprofit – is known for promoting the benefits of the free market.
Cargill campaigned as if the opposition was fierce, putting up yard signs, doorbelling and detailing his stances and priorities online and in person. With the help of a volunteer crew, he handed out close to 4,000 flyers.
Early into his tenure, Cargill has shown an eye for detail while
Cargill spent his early years in Otis Orchard until his family moved east to the Spokane Valley off Sullivan when he was in the sixth grade. He grew up playing baseball and graduated from CVHS in 1998. As a Bear, Cargill was part of the school newspaper and served as editor his senior year.
While in college, Cargill latched on at KAYU, the local Fox affiliate as an executive producer. He would stay there from 1999 to 2003 when he accepted a job as new producer at KXLY and worked until 2009. The decision to leave the media field to take the reins of the Eastern Washington chapter of the Washington Policy Center was about a change of direction.
Cargill won a four-year term in last November’s general election, running unopposed for the Pos. 2 seat occupied for eight years by his friend and fellow Central Valley alum Hugh Severs. Cargill and his wife Lisa had discussed the possibility of him running for office before. As Severs prepared to step down, he reached out to Cargill about considering his own run at the dais.
“People would ask me, ‘Why put out signs if no one is running against you?’” Cargill said. “It was important for me to go out and talk to the community and say, ‘This is what I stand for.’”
Liberte. Courchaine, Liberte and William Newman (of Newman Lake fame) gained recognition in Inland Northwest folklore as “The Lake Men.”
Photo by Craig Howard Chris Cargill was elected last November to serve a four-year term on the Liberty Lake City Council. The Central Valley High and Gonzaga University grad serves as the Eastern Washington director of the Washington Policy Center.
“I’m able to be in favor of and support ideas that I’m in favor of,” Cargill said. “We’re providing research and ideas on public policy topics that impact the lives of Washingtonians.” Chris and Lisa are proud parents of two sons – Hudson, 9 and Lincoln, 14. See CARGILL, Page 4
APRIL 2022 • 3
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4 • APRIL 2022
CARGILL
Continued from page 2 Q: You grew up not far from the area that would eventually become incorporated Liberty Lake in 2001. What are some of your recollections of the community back then? A: Yes, I grew up in Otis Orchards in a very modest home. I attended the last year of the old Otis Orchards Elementary and then the first year of the new school. The area was much different back then. Liberty Lake was not a city and consisted of nothing more than a McDonald’s and a Zip Trip gas station. It was hard to imagine what it would become and I never thought about the fact that I may live in the area my entire life. Q: When you decided to major in Broadcast Communication Studies at Gonzaga, what were some of your primary goals when it came to pursuing a career in that field? A: My interest was always in informing people. I always watched television news growing up, even if it was on a small, 11-inch black-andwhite TV. I wanted the opportunity to inform citizens of what was happening in their community, their state and their country. I wrote for my high school newspaper, went to college and got a degree in broadcasting and was hooked.
the memories of 9/11 are still with me. For those of us working in TV news, there was no getting away from it. We were on the air for five days straight. Seeing the footage of a terrible story or reading the details of a horrific crime as part of your job is not easy. TV news can cover the best of humanity but it also has an obligation to cover the worst. And the worst can sometimes hollow you out. Q: What did you learn about politics while coordinating candidate debates and other coverage of government that maybe you hadn't been aware of before? A: One of my favorite parts about working in TV news was election season. I always admired both Republicans and Democrats who decided to run for office. Doing so is not easy. What I learned was something I hope most people would come to understand – there is no one who runs for a political office who knows everything. Too often, people are intimidated by elected officials. Too many believe that if someone was elected to something, they are automatically smarter. Let me tell you, the average citizen is just as smart – if not smarter – than the average politician. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve heard an elected official say, “Well, I’m not a small business owner, but…” and then proceed to adopt a regulation that impacts small businesses. Don’t be afraid of or yield to politicians or elected officials simply because they have a title. You are just as smart and capable as they are.
A: It’s a great question. I think so many people are intimidated by running for office. There’s the paperwork, the fundraising, the door-to-door campaigning. It seems much easier to just apply for an open seat. In the name of transparency, we have made the path to running for office very difficult. I wish it were not the case. Q: Despite being unopposed in the general election, you campaigned as if you had challengers on the ballot. What did you learn about this community and those who live here as you were out knocking on doors?
Shoreline*
Stormwater*
Q: How do you think your work at the Washington Policy Center may help you in this new role as a council member?
A: TV news is rewarding but also extremely taxing. Long nights, few weekends, few holidays off and the pain of witnessing terrible events takes a toll. For example,
Q: Why did you decide to leave KXLY in 2009 to take the job at the Eastern Washington office of the Washington Policy Center? A:
As I mentioned earlier,
Help protect our lake Shoreline and/or Stormwater Permit(s) may be required for your project. There are regulations governing development activities across the entire Liberty Lake watershed.
Q: You threw your hat into the ring last February as one of 15 applicants for an appointment to City Council. A few months later you ran as the only candidate on the ballot for the open Pos. 2 council seat. Why do you think there is often such a large disparity between the number of people interested in being appointed to the city's governing board and those who run for office?
A: Indeed, I believed that even though I was running unopposed, I still had the responsibility to campaign. Why? Because this seat belongs to the people. It does not belong to me. With their decision in the election, they have given be temporary stewardship over it. But that’s all. Therefore, it is my job to tell them what I stand for. I believe we did a good job explaining my top priorities – keeping taxes low, making Liberty Lake the safest community in the state, adopting Priorities of Government budgeting, etc. When I talked with citizens, those were the top issues that came up. Overall, I think the desire of the community is to just have a government that does the people’s business and then goes home.
Q: As you established yourself as a producer in local TV news, what did you find rewarding about the work and what aspects were not as positive?
working in TV news can be exhausting. I wanted the opportunity to spend time with my family while still informing people on the issues that are important. That’s why I left TV news. I still work with the media frequently but I am no longer on the inside.
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A: My day job allows me the opportunity to see what is happening in other communities, learn from it and bring lessons to our community. I have friends and
The Splash colleagues on City Councils across the state. Some solutions that work in their community might work in ours and some in ours might work for them. I think that’s a huge advantage that I bring. Q: You introduced a proclamation establishing Autism Awareness Month at a recent council meeting. Why was this important to you? A: My 14-year-old son was diagnosed with autism at a very young age. If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism. No two people are alike. So many families like ours struggle with how to get their child the help they need. Luckily, my wife and I have been able to help our son succeed but there are many others who are falling behind. My position as a fierce advocate for school choice is informed by being the father of a special needs child. By introducing the proclamation, I wanted our community to send a signal to these families that they are not alone. Q: Finally, what are some of your hopes and objectives for the city of Liberty Lake during your four-year tenure at the dais? A: Transparency is one of my top priorities. I have pledged not to support any decision made behind closed doors. In my first council meetings, I have sought to add public comment and have also advocated for removing secretive executive sessions from the agenda unless absolutely necessary. I’ve also posted videos on social media to preview agendas, as well as explanations of my votes after each meeting. This is the people’s government, not mine. It is therefore important that the people are involved and informed. Spending restraint is also one of my top priorities. I am concerned about the size of the increase in our local and statewide budgets. They are not sustainable and they set us up for future budget problems. It is understandable to see some small increases or even larger increases over a period of time but not all at once. I believe in only funding core functions of government and abiding by a process called Priorities of Government budgeting. This would allow the citizens to help us choose priorities and then fund them. Finally, keeping taxes low is a top issue for me. I believe the time is now to review the city’s utility tax and either reduce or do away with it completely.
The Splash
NEWS
SVFD Report – Feb. 2022 Splash news sources
Spokane Valley Fire Department crews responded to a total of 128 emergency calls in the greater Liberty Lake area from Feb. 15 – Mar. 15, 2022 • Emergency Medical Services 101 • Building Alarms 8 • Motor Vehicle Accidents 8 • Fires 5 • Hazardous Materials 2 • Technical Rescue 2 • Vehicle Fires 1 • Dispatched and cancelled en route 1 Of note: • Total Calls saw a decrease from 152 last month to 128 this month. • Emergency Medical Services decreased from 134 calls last month to 101 calls this month. • Motor Vehicle Collisions increased from 2 last month to 8 this month. • Fires increased from 2 last month to 5 this month. Of Significance: • Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) held a groundbreaking ceremony March 14 for the new SVFD Facilities and Maintenance Shop. “For SVFD, this is momentous, fulfilling one of the capital and strategic plan goals of having a facility that can manage the size and numbers of our apparatus,” said SVFD Fire Chief, Frank Soto. “With the ever-growing community and its subsequent public safety needs, the new facility will help us be able to keep up with the service needs of our communities, the service needs of our apparatus, and accommodate our Ladder trucks that do not fit into our current maintenance facility.” Media Releases: Feb. 27 – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to a reported residential structure fire at approximately 2:30 p.m. on the North 3400 Block of Arden Road in Spokane Valley. A neighbor saw smoke and flames coming from the side of the structure and called 911. The first arriving crews pulled a preconnected hand line from an engine to knock down the fire on the
exterior of the structure. Additional crews took handlines to the interior of the structure and extinguished the fire and ensured that the fire had not extended. A thorough search of the structure was performed to ensure that no one was inside the residence. The fire was contained to one corner of the building.
The residents were not home at the time of the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation. No injuries were reported. Mar. 2 – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to a reported residential structure fire at approximately 8:30 a.m. to the East 5300 Block of Sharp Avenue in Spokane Valley. Callers to 911 reported seeing smoke and flames coming from the structure. The first arriving crews pulled a preconnected hand line from an engine to knock down the fire on the interior of the structure. Additional crews took handlines to the interior of the structure and extinguished the remaining fire and ensured that the fire had not extended. A thorough search of the structure was performed to ensure that no one was inside the business. The property owners stated that the business was being remodeled. Nobody was in the business at the when the fire started. The cause of the fire is under investigation. No injuries were reported. Mar. 4 – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to a reported motorhome fire at approximately 5:00 pm today in the East 4800 block of Second Avenue in Spokane Valley. Valley Engine 6 was the first unit on scene, and they observed a fully involved motorhome fire. They pulled a preconnected hand line from an engine to knock down the fire on the exterior of the structure. Additional crews took handlines to nearby structures and shrubs to ensure that the fire did not extend.
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6 • APRIL 2022
The Splash
Introducing the
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Police Report - Feb. 2022 Splash news sources
Total incidents generated by Officers and emergency calls for service last month 650 Traffic Collisions/Hit & Runs / Injury Collisions 6 Citations (Traffic/Criminal/NonCriminal) 34 DUI (Driving Under Influence) 3 Thefts / Vehicle Prowls / Vehicle Theft / Burglaries 15 Malicious Mischief 3 Argument / Assault DV / Simple Assault / Assault w/a Weapon 8 Parking Violations 0 Suspicious Vehicles 37 *The above numbers are as of
Least Most
3/1/22 Criminal Trespass, 2/3/22; Officers responded to a report of a trespass in the 500 block of North Barker Rd. As they responded they noticed a white male walking out of a business matching the description of the suspect. They detained the male and learned he had broken into the business earlier and remained until employees arrived for work. During their investigation the male provided a false name, and they found a meth pipe in his possession. The male was placed in custody for Criminal Trespass 1st Degree, Making False Statements, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. DUI, 2/17/22; Officers witnessed a white passenger car traveling eastbound near the 22000 block of Country Vista Blvd. The vehicle was traveling 20 MPH slower than the posted speed limit. The vehicle
was stopped, and they contacted the adult female driver who was showing signs of impairment. Officers asked the female if she would perform field sobriety tests, but she refused. Based on their observations, she was placed in custody for DUI. The female also refused to provide a breath sample and she had two previous convictions for DUI. A warrant was obtained for blood, and she was further processed and transported to the Spokane County Jail for Driving Under the Influence. Robbery, 1/25/22; Officers responded to a report of a Robbery in the 22000 block of Country Vista Blvd. While they were responding, they learned an adult female had stolen property from the business and assaulted an employee while attempting to leave. They were also told the female left in a black passenger car. They checked the area
circles contain the number of incidents in a given area.
but couldn’t locate the suspect or her vehicle that was described. They obtained some video footage of the female and the vehicle and were able to locate a possible suspect in the case. Investigation relieved the same female had been responsible for numerous commercial thefts and robberies from various locations throughout the county as well as Kootenai County. Officers determined there was enough probable cause to arrest the female and submitted a warrant to the prosecutor’s office for her arrest. Officers have encountered several suspicious vehicles and a variety of suspicious people within the community. The Liberty Lake Police Department would like to remind everyone to lock your vehicles and to secure your property where it can’t be seen to avoid any vehicle prowlers. Stay well and be safe!
APRIL 2022 • 7
The Splash
The Lookout The Community Corner
By Jennifer Camp
City of Liberty Lake City Operations and Maintenance Director Look who’s baaaa-ck! Let us reintroduce you all to our famous, four-legged weed eaters: Keenai, Turk, Kahn, Spice, Annie, Oakley, Kevin, Woody Jr., Banshee and little Rosie. Yes, that’s right, four-legged weed eaters. These seasonal maintenance workers are more than just fluffy and friendly entertainment. The “Magnificent 10” are a favorite amenity in our little city and are coming back to greet you in our parks for another season of “mowing” noxious weeds so staff can avoid using chemical products
and hand labor. Each year they return to their same patches of munch-worthy goodness to graze on the green pastures of noxious weeds. This year you will likely see them first at Rocky Hill park toward the northeast area of the park. Our little friends have made a significant impact over the years by returning to the same places to graze and because of this we see the patches of noxious weeds slowly decline. Does that mean we will quit using the goats at some point? Of course not! There will always be weed patches around to ensure the goats will continue to have an abundance of work! People often ask us if we are feeding the goats enough. Do they
have water or shelter? Is it too hot for them. Too rainy? These are all great questions! While the goats primary food supply is grazing the weed patches, staff does supplement feed them every day, seven days a week, with fresh timothy hay, baking soda and mineral salts. However, they will tell you their favorite treat is sweet feed, a molasses- coated grainy compilation of deliciousness, a.k.a “goat candy”. They come running to staff when they hear the sweet feed sack (who has who trained?). Staff also supplies them with fresh water each day, and builds them a covered shelter area to get out of the elements and while they highly dislike the rain they do love the heat. These little guys and gals are like family to the staff and they are well loved and well taken care
April 2022 of. Next time you visit them at the park and see how plump and fluffy they are, don’t worry, these cute little bundles have staff wrapped around their hooves! And a reminder, we prefer you don’t feed them even if they make eye contact with you and convince you for one tasty little bite from your bag of crackers or chips. Please refrain no matter what they tell you! You can certainly pick a weed or some grass near the pen and hand it to them through the fence and they will be fur-ever grateful! So the next time you are out and about visiting Rocky Hill or Pavillion Park, be sure and look around and go say “hi” to our fan favorite maintenance workers. They love people visiting them and might be a little spoiled from all of the attention the community has given them over the years!
City welcomes Amy Mullerleile
Spring update for parks, golf, events
Before coming on with the city, Amy worked in multiple jurisdictions throughout Washington and discovered her preference for smaller, more tightknit communities such as Liberty Lake. Her accomplishments range from a B.A. in both Government and Criminal Justice to a Masters in both Public Administration and Urban and Regional Planning.
With the warmer weather approaching, permanent greens have opened on the golf course at Trailhead. Tentatively, and dependent on weather, golf carts will be returning April 1 as well. Crews are also busy prepping the driving range grass tees to return as soon as possible.
The city has welcomed another fantastic new staff member, Amy Mullerleile, as senior planner for the Planning, Engineering and Building department. Amy started in March and has quickly shown her strengths in the department. No two days are the same at City Hall but Amy has been hard at work learning city codes, working on long-range projects and land use applications and much more.
When she isn’t at City Hall, Amy enjoys the outdoors with her family, including golfing, skiing and flexing her green thumb in the garden. We know Amy will be a valuable and welcomed member of city staff and look forward to the achievements she will certainly attain in Liberty Lake.
City parks are prepping for a tentative April 1 re-opening, which will include the opening of park restrooms. This will be weather dependent, but this date is the goal for crews. Kids sports camps will also begin in the parks and for those interested in registering through the outside organizations, please visit the city website – www.libertylakewa.gov for more information.
Community garden plots still available
Spring is here and the city still has garden plots available! As of March 25, the city has openings at the Arboretum Gardens located behind City Hall along the pedestrian pathway. Plots are for Liberty Lake residents only and cost just $25 for the season which typically runs from late April to
late October, weather permitting. While the city cannot guarantee plot availability at the time of this article being published, we welcome residents to call or stop by to inquire on availability if they are interested in using a plot this season! City Hall is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and plots can be requested during regular business hours depending on availability.
Finally, with the arrival of warmer weather comes the return of city events! Touch-ATruck is back and will officially take place July 15. As the season progresses, please visit the city website for further information regarding upcoming events.
https://www.facebook.com/libertylakewa • www.libertylakewa.gov
8 • APRIL 2022
The Splash
NEWS
News and Notes – April 2022
outside lane at the Legacy Ridge Drive intersection. Legacy Ridge Drive will feature inbound and outbound lanes allowing left and right turns onto Country Vista.
By Craig Howard Splash Contributing Editor
• The city will team up with Waste Management and Goodwill Industries of the Inland Northwest for the annual Spring Cleanup Event on Saturday, April 23. The event will take place at Town Square, 1420 N. Meadowwood Lane, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. All city of Liberty Lake residential customers will receive a coupon flyer in the mail two weeks prior to the cleanup that is required to take part. • Tom Sahlberg was appointed as the newest member of the Liberty Lake City Council on March 15, replacing Mike Kennedy who stepped down for health reasons. Sahlberg has been involved in public service for 40 years, including 26 years with the Spokane Police Department, and has served with the Friends of Pavillion Park and Friends of the Library. He is currently on the Transportation Advisory Committee for the Spokane Regional Transportation Council. Applicants for the seat also included Jim Baumker, Mike Behary, Dale Robbins, Laina Schutz and Jed Spencer. • The right eastbound lane on Country Vista Road was closed March 7 for work on the Legacy Ridge signal that will continue until April 18. A shoulder closure on the north side of Country Vista Road along the westbound
• A Celebration of Life will be held for Tom Specht on April 16 at 11 a.m. at Liberty Lake Community Beach. Specht, recognized as the catalyst for Liberty Lake’s renowned trail system, passed away on Jan. 25 after a battle with lung cancer. The Oklahoma native worked as a engineer for Hewlett Packard, designed his lakeside home in 1985 and was known for organizing free concerts on the shores of Liberty Lake. Survivors include his wife Kathy and daughter Jessica. • Phil Champlin, executive director of the HUB Sports Center in Liberty Lake, presented a “Hooray for the HUB” proclamation at the March 1 meeting. Champlin acknowledged the facility’s two millionth visitor – Bailey Hillman – in February. “The HUB has been a great asset to the community,” said Mayor Cris Kaminskas. • Police Chief Damon Simmons gave council a summary of a new inter-agency program that will use license plate recognition technology to improve crime prevention efforts. The city is looking at deploying 19 cameras as part of the pilot program. • A day after taking the oath of office as Spokane Valley Fire Department’s newest chief, Frank Soto Jr. gave an overview of the agency’s efforts in Liberty Lake at the March 1 council meeting. “I’m happy to be here,” Soto said. “I’m happy to be involved.” Soto noted there were 140 emergency calls in Liberty Lake in February, 116 of
which were EMS calls. Soto referred to Pulse Point, a CPR-related app for citizens that was introduced by his predecessor Bryan Collins that has improved the survival rates for cardiac incidents since it became part of the SVFD response effort. Soto said the local survival rate is 75 percent in the local response area compared to a 37 percent rate nationally. More information on the Pulse Point app can be accessed by calling SVFD at 509-928-1700 or going to www.pulsepoint.org.
• Darin Morgan has been promoted to LLPD first lieutenant while Matt McKay has been named second detective. • Amy Mullerleile was introduced as the new senior planner on March 1. • Council Member Chris Cargill introduced a proclamation on March 15 to observe April as Autism Awareness Month in Liberty Lake. • Nancy Hill with the city’s Parks and Arts Commission gave a presentation to council on March 15 related to a collaboration with the Hooptown USA, a branch of Hoopfest, that would involve a renovation of the basketball court at Pavillion Park as part of the Community Courts program. Hooptown USA has provided similar upgrades to courts at Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane. • Council received a report on devices known as “eco-counters” on the Centennial Trail which compile data on the number of pedestrians and cyclists who use the trail. The program will help determine which parts of the trail require prioritized maintenance. An eco-counter was
installed at the Harvard Road trailhead last June. • Council Member Dan Dunne provided a summary of the 17th annual Liberty Lake Kiwanis Father Daughter Dance that took place on March 5. The event was recognized as a resounding success. • Council passed a resolution to ban a local income tax on March 1. Council Member Annie Kurtz spoke in favor of not implementing an income tax but voted against the resolution citing potential conflict of interest related to messages in support of the stance she had received from the Washington Policy Center where Cargill is employed. • In-person programming returned to the Liberty Lake Municipal Library in March. Library Director Jandy Humble told council the agenda featured story time four days a week, crafts, teen art journaling class and adult watercolor class. • The 26th annual Liberty Lake Easter Egg Hunt will take place Saturday, April 16 at Pavillion Park beginning at 11 a.m. • A quartet of appointments to the city’s new Community Engagement Commission were confirmed by council on March 15. The inaugural members are Robin Bekkedahl, Heidi Christensen, Summer Darrow and Terri Peters. The city has identified an optimum number of five to nine for the commission. Applications are still being accepted and can be accessed at www.libertylakewa.gov.
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The Splash
Council zeroes in on Trailhead project, timeline By Craig Howard Splash Contributing Editor
As any good golfer knows, consistent practice is the key to establishing an exceptional game. After a myriad of in-depth discussions on the renovation of the Trailhead golf facility, the Liberty Lake City Council appears poised to move ahead with the community’s most-anticipated capital project in years. At a workshop last month, council and the project design team hammered out details of the largescale upgrade, include a floor plan, site plan and cost estimate. The division of scope as decided by council includes the design team being responsible for the clubhouse building and parking with a budget of $6.45 million and the city tackling the driving range, poles and netting with a cost outlay of $1 million. According to project manager Steve Roth of Architects West, the three priorities of the project are prominence, functionality and indoor/outdoor qualities. “Those are the major factors for how we set up the architecture of the building,” Roth said at the March 1 workshop. The revamped clubhouse will span just over 10,000 square feet of indoor space and feature another 2,000 square feet of outdoor event space. The pro shop will encompass 2,000 square feet, with a restaurant covering 2,600 square feet. Flex space (2,000 sq. ft.) and a lower level (3,500 sq. ft.) round out the blueprint. Roth said the designated restaurant area is “the minimumsized restaurant that would be leased by potential restaurant tenants.” He added that the recommended space is between 3,000 to 4,000 square feet but was reduced based on the established budget. While Roth said the pro shop would be of the “no frills” variety, he pointed out that the sales area would be close to double the space of the existing pro shop.
NEWS
“It’s basically a big shell that can outfitted in a retail way,” Roth said.
The flex space could seat around 100 people. Restaurant space could be blended with the flex space and/ or outdoor event space. “We’re sharing and doubling up spaces as much as possible to gain maximum flexibility and functionality for this building,” Roth said. The design would allow for 117 parking spots, including ADA accessible parking, and utilize the same entry currently in place. All driving range tees, covered and grass, would remain the same under this plan. The clubhouse would occupy what Roth described as “a place of prominence” visible from the intersection of Liberty Lake Road and Country Vista Drive. “You have the opportunity to create a piece of architecture that says something about the city of Liberty Lake,” Roth said. The outdoor event space, meanwhile, Roth said, “Is all about the view of the golf course.” Scott McGlocklin of Bouten Construction gave council a breakdown of the clubhouse price tag with the pro shop ($840,000) taking up the highest concrete cost, followed by the flex space ($740,000), shelled restaurant space ($715,000) and cart/building storage ($700,000). Site development and soft costs check in at $1.7 million each. Finance Director Kyle Dixon said the city plans to cover the costs of the project through the REET (Real Estate Excise Tax) fund with the General Fund serving as a backup. REET funds are collected by the city from sale of property within municipal limits.
Dixon said the city would have around six weeks to secure a bond once council decides on the amount of money to put down. Council members Jamie Baird and Wendy Van Orman both spoke in favor of putting a higher amount toward the project initially to shorten the time it will take to pay off the note. “Let’s make sure we are conservative and do right by our citizens,” Van Orman said. The city expects revenue from the restaurant lease, season golf passes, purchase of driving range balls and renting out the event space to bolster the Trailhead financial picture. Certain rates are expected to go up in 2023. Council Member Jamie Baird brought up a concern with the design team that the blueprint presented was “just a shell.” She asked what fixtures would run to add fixtures and other amenities. The team responded that a line item of $150,000 was included. Kudos for the design team echoed around the dais as the workshop wound down. “The design here, I like where it’s going,” said Cargill. “It’s nice to see what the building is going to look like in that space,” said Council Member Annie Kurtz. “I’m excited about what this will be a part of the community moving forward.” In the citizen comments portion of the March 1 meeting, resident Marjorie Frett spoke in support of enhancing the golf course she and other golfers call home. “I am encouraged by the project
APRIL 2022 • 9
process I saw tonight and I’m aware of your fiduciary responsibility to the city but I want to remind you that you have a commitment to the citizens that use this resource you’re discussing,” said Frett, who serves as treasurer of the Trailhead Ladies Golf Club. “Tonight I’m asking you to continue your support for the sport that I and the other 90plus women from Liberty Lake and surrounding area love and hope to play for many, many years to come.” Eventually, council approved $6.45 million toward the project, giving the green light to Architects West to move ahead with the design. The city will contribute $2 million in cash up front. Taking into account $1 million toward driving range, that leaves $5.45 million to be financed. Dixon called the driving range budget “a work in progress.” “Council doesn’t want to spend more than $1 million on the driving range,” Dixon said. The city is looking into metal poles that would extend 80 feet high on the City Hall side of the driving range and have the capacity to go another 20 or 40 feet higher. On March 15, council heard an update on the project, now that the money portion has been determined. Design and pre-construction will occur between March and early July. The design team will present to council this month followed by an open house/public forum later in April. Construction could begin as early as this July – although Dixon said “We’re probably looking at August” –and continue through May of next year.
Council Member Chris Cargill asked Dixon what would happen if a recession occurred and the real estate market experienced a nose dive. Dixon said the general fund would be a backup. “That is a very real concern,” Dixon said. “We are obligating future revenues for this project, so when you do that you have to be solvent and make sure you can pay your debts. If REET for some reason dries up and we just have a pile of projects on deck the potential for deferred maintenance is a possibility. It is never our intent to use the general fund.”
File photo The aging clubhouse at the Trailhead at Liberty Lake Golf Course has occupied a significant percentage of City Council discussions over the last several months. The governing board agreed on a budget of $6.45 million toward renovations at the site in March, including another $1 million toward the driving range.
10 • APRIL 2022
COVER STORY
The Splash
Community Events are back By Nina Culver Current Contributor
After two long years, Liberty Lake parks are beginning to bustle with activity again after public events that had been curtailed or on hiatus return. Some of the events returning, such as the movies in the park, are hosted in whole or in part by community groups rather than the city. In some cases, the city provides support behind the scenes for the groups who host the events. “The city supports a variety of events,” said interim city administrator Jen Camp. Some events had to be cancelled during the pandemic while others, primarily those held outdoors, were able to be held in a limited fashion. It was often difficult for groups to work their way through all the requirements and restrictions when an event was held, Camp said. “It was so complicated,” she said. Camp said she’s glad to see things returning to the way they used to be, with everything from Shakespeare to cornhole hosted at local parks.
“Our events are in full force this year,” she said. “This is the first time we’re really back to normal.” Returning events include the annual Easter egg hunt, which hasn’t been held in two years. Last year organizers had people sign up and then eggs were left in their front yard. “They couldn’t have a gathering,” Camp said. “They adapted.” This year’s event is set for 11 a.m. April 16 at Pavillion Park. It’s open to toddlers through students in the fifth grade. People can register online through the Liberty Lake Easter Egg Hunt Facebook page and the cost to participate is to bring a bag of wrapped candy to the Liberty Lake Library between April 1 and 10. The Liberty Lake Kiwanis host several popular community events that are returning this year. The first, held on March 5, was the annual Father-Daughter dance at the Mirabeau Park Hotel. The last one was held in March 2020, just before the pandemic shut everything down. “It was a grand success,” said
Kiwanis board member Dan Dunne. “It was the very last event the hotel was able to hold.”
and wide, is set for June 17-18. “We don’t coordinate that event, we just support them,” said Camp.
Dunne said he was pleased that the event was able to return this year, drawing a record crowd. “We had a very successful event this year and it was the first event Mirabeau Park Hotel was able to host,” he said. “It was such a joy.”
The Kiwanis Golf Scramble will return to MeadowWood Golf Course on July 22 and the popular Barefoot in the Park event returns to Pavillion Park on Aug. 6. In September the Kiwanis will host a performance by the Spokane Symphony, a fall tradition, on Sept. 3 in Pavillion Park. The group is also bringing the Moving Wall, a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, to the Liberty Lake ball fields Sept. 15-19.
The annual Liberty Lake Yard Sale, which boasts dozens of homes and draws bargain hunters from far
The Liberty Lake Kiwanis will also bring back the Movies in the Park to Pavillion Park, though the schedule has not yet been announced. Details on the upcoming Kiwanis events are available at www.libertylakekiwanis.org. Another returning event is the annual Memorial Day breakfast hosted by the Liberty Lake Rotary Club in Pavillion Park, Camp said. The annual event is a fundraiser for Honor Flight, which brings local veterans to Washington, D.C., to see the war memorials. This year the event will allow people to sponsor a luminary to honor a service member, with the luminaries on display in Pavillion Park all weekend. The luminary recognition was created during the pandemic when a large breakfast crowd wasn’t possible.
File photo Royal Highlands Produce a vendor at the Liberty Lake Farmers market which will be celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year when it opens on May 14th the weekend after Mother's Day.
The Montana Shakespeare Company is set to perform in Pavillion Park on Aug. 21 and the HUB Sports Center will host the annual Liberty Lake Throw Down, a cornhole tournament, in Orchard Park on Aug. 20. The city’s Fourth of July celebration will be back, as will the city’s Touch a Truck event
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COVER STORY
APRIL 2022 • 11
vendors,” she said. “We still have our regulars. We have a good batch. We won’t have to say no to people.” The Farmers Market will open for the season on May 14, the weekend after Mother’s Day. It is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday. The market will continue to host its usual special events, including Pie Day, which is typically held in August. Organizers are also planning several events to mark the 20th anniversary of the market, which was founded by Sandra Parker and Jim Frank of Greenstone Homes. “That’s a huge deal for us,” Parker said. “We’re super excited. We’re going to celebrate real big.”
File Photo Bumper Ball a favorite at the Barefoot in the Park event likely to return this year as the event restarts on August 6th.
on July 15, though it is moving to Orchard Park. Camp said she believes that after two years of “being cooped up and roped off and masked” that people will be eager to get out and go to their traditional events. It’s a good time for all the community’s core events to be returning, she said. “We’re going to be right back where we started before COVID,” she said.
was crowded, I’m not going to lie.” Shoppers like the more spacious feel and organizers took that to heart, Parker said. The market will expand a bit more toward Meadowwood Drive and the surrounding area. Parker said she expects a few new vendors this year plus returning favorites who have been with
the market for multiple seasons. Farmers will be there with their produce, there will be baked goods and ice cream and crafters will have a variety of wares available. Parker had received applications for 70 vendors, some of them part time, before the application window had closed. “We’ve got some fantastic
The market has grown tremendously in the last two decades, attracting more and more vendors and shoppers. “Twenty years ago we had six (vendors) and it rained the first month,” Parker said. Now the market is seeing second generation shoppers and some businesses that got their start at the market, including Sweet Annie’s Artisan Creamery, now have brick and mortar locations open yearround, Parker said. “We’re grateful for the community,” she said. “We’re just so excited. Come celebrate 20 years with us.”
One popular event that was able to continue with modifications during the pandemic was the Liberty Lake Farmers Market, which is held at Town Square Park at 1421 N. Meadowwood Lane. The season was delayed in 2020 and farmer’s markets, which were designated as essential, were able to operate with additional spacing requirements between booths. Crowd size was also limited and at first craft vendors were not allowed. Last year’s season was the normal length, but the spacing requirements remained. “We were pretty much back to normal,” said vendor coordinator Holli Parker. But the Farmers Market will still take up a bit more room. “The thing we found out when we spaced everyone is that people liked it,” she said. “We were stacked in there. It
File photo Treasure seekers at The Liberty Lake Kiwanis Yard Sale are never sure what they will find but always excited to look. Event returns on June 17th and 18th this year.
COMMUNITY
12 • APRIL 2022
COMMUNITY EVENTS April 1-3 | Custer’s 45th Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Show – Friday 10a.m..- 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Spokane County Fairgrounds. Spring is in the air and creativity is blooming everywhere with artisans from across the northwest selling their fine art, hand crafts and specialty foods! April 16 | Liberty Lake’s 26th Annual Easter Egg Hunt – 11 a.m., Pavilion Park. Open to toddlers up to fifth grade. Must register on their facebook page, form located online. Click on “Tickets” to complete registration. Cost is one bag of wrapped candy per family to be dropped off at the Liberty Lake Library between Apr 1 and April 10. April 23 | City of Liberty Lake Spring Cleanup | 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Town Square Park, 1420 N Meadowwood Lane. All City of Liberty Lake Waste Management customers will receive a coupon flyer in the mail 2 weeks prior to event. No Admittance without coupon. For more info, contact City Hall at 755-6700.
RECURRING ACT 2 Senior Classes | Affordable classes offered by Community Colleges of Spokane to those who are retired or planning to retire. A wide range of courses from geology and history to exercise and art are offered at CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place, as well as other locations throughout the area. For more, search for “Act 2” at scc. spokane.edu. Catholic Singles Mingle | Meeting times and locations vary. This group, with no dues, is for single adults of all ages. More at www.meetup. com/Catholic-Singles-Mingle.
Free Last Sunday Lunch | Spokane Valley United Methodist Church, 115 N. Raymond Road, Spokane Valley - 12:30 p.m. on the final Sunday of every month in the church’s Fellowship Hall, Room 115 Liberty Lake Library | 23123 E. Mission Ave., Liberty Lake. Various clubs and weekly meetings including book clubs, children’s story times, LEGO club, computer drop-in class, knitting club, and more. More at www.libertylakewa. gov/library Men’s Weekly Bible Study | 7 a.m. Tuesdays. Millwood Presbyterian Church, 3223 N. Marguerite Road, Millwood. The men’s weekly Bible Study meets in the Reception Hall with different members sharing in the leading of the study. All men are invited to join. More at www. milwoodpc.org. Spokane County Library District | Locations include Argonne, Fairfield, Otis Orchards, and Spokane Valley. Special events and weekly activities for all ages including book clubs, children’s story times, classes, Lego club, teen anime club and writing clubs. More at scld.org. Toastmasters, Liberty Lakers #399 | 5:45 to 7 p.m., 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, we are currently meeting online only. RSVP to get the link on www.libertylakers.org. This is a speaking and leadership development club. MUSIC & THE ARTS Mar 27 – Sept 1 | Dreamworks Animation: Journey from Sketch to Screen Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, 2316 W 1st Ave, Spokane. From the makers of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon
and Trolls, comes an extraordinary exhibition celebrating over 25 years of DreamWorks Animation. Featuring over 350 items including rare and never-seen-before concept drawings, original artifacts, interactives, film clips, and more! Tickets are $20.00 For more, visit northwestmuseum.org.
RECURRING Spirit of Spokane Chorus | 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, rehearsals at Opportunity Presbyterian Church, 202 N. Pines Road. Make new friends by joining this women’s chorus, specializing in four-part, a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. More at 866-6354. Spokane Valley Camera Club | 7:15 p.m., third and fourth Monday of the month (September through April). Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District building, 22510 E. Mission Ave., Liberty Lake. All levels of ability—students through experienced photographers— are invited to learn. Social events include field trips and workshops. More at 951-1446 or www.sv-cc.org Spokane Valley Quilt Guild | Meetings at 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of February, April, June, August, October and December at Valley Assembly of God Church, 15618 E. Broadway Ave., Spokane Valley. Open to all interested in sharing ideas and skills of our quilting craft. Participants can access a comprehensive library, engage experienced teachers and participate in community service projects. More at svqgspokane.com
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to provide our region with a large multi-site tournament that is well run and that we hope will provide a great late season experience for players in Washington, Idaho and Montana. The second part of our mission is to raise money to for grants and scholarships that support Evergreen Region players and clubs.. For more, contact Mark Springer at inkvolleyball@gmail. com
RECURRING Al-Anon Meetings | Mondays, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Liberty Lake Library, 23123 E. Mission Ave. No meetings on holiday Mondays. Is there a problem of alcoholism with a relative or a friend? Al-Anon family groups can help. For more, call 425344-9280. Al-Anon Family Meetings | Tuesdays, noon to 1 p.m., , 708 N. Pines, Spokane Valley. Is there a problem of alcoholism with a relative or a friend? Al-Anon/ Alateen family groups can help. For more, call 456-2125. Veterans Assistance Groups | The Vet Center, 13109 E. Mirabeau Parkway, Spokane Valley. Eligibility: combat veteran from all eras, military sexual trauma survivors. For more, call Steve at 893-4746 to make an intake appointment.
RECREATION
DivorceCare Recovery Support Group | Mondays 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Eastpoint Church, 15303 E. Sprague Ave. Learn how to heal from the deep hurt of divorce and discover hope for your future. DivorceCare for Kids (ages 5-12) meets at the same time and location. Cost is $25 for workbook. More at 892-5255 or eastpointchurch.com.
Apr 9-10| Inland NW Klassic Volleyball Tournament – 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Our mission is two fold. We look
Family and Friends of Addicts| 6 p.m. Wednesdays, The ONE Church, 15601 E. 24th Ave., Spokane Valley. Support group utilizing tools and principles to help navigate relationships with addicts and
HEALTH &
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APRIL 2022 • 13
COMMUNITY
finding peace, strength and hope. For more, call 509-590-2422.
HUB Sports Center | 19619 E Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Various activities and events occur throughout the week including: • Pickleball drop-in: 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10:00am to 12:00pm Tuesday and Thursday; $3/seniors, $5/nonseniors. • Classes including Kenpo Karate, Taekwondo and Fit for YOUR Life. See hubsportscenter.org for cost and times. Liberty Lake Running Club | Meets at Liberty Lake Physical Therapy, 6:30 p.m. Thursdays through October. Weekly three-mile run/ walk. Earn T-shirt after six runs. Mindful Music & Movement | 12:30 to 1:20 p.m. Wednesdays, Willow Song Music Therapy Center, 21101 E. Wellesley #102-103, Otis Orchards. All are welcome to this session specifically designed for adults living with chronic health issues. Session addresses physical function, vocal wellness and strength, self-expression, breath work, movement, and increase of mood through music experiences, as facilitated by board-certified music therapist, Carla Carnegie. $10 per person. For more, email carla. carnegie@gmail.com or call 509-5927875. CIVIC &
BUSINESS Apr 22 | 2022 Valley Chamber Business Awards – 5:30 – 8:30 p.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel & Convention Center, 1100 N Sullivan, Spokane Valley. The award categories will recognize organizations (businesses & nonprofits) that excel in business innovation, create inspiring workplaces and lead through community stewardship. Tickets: $75 per person. For more or to register, visit spokanevalleychamber.org.
RECURRING Central Valley School Board | 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, CVSD administration building, 19307 E.
Cataldo, Spokane Valley Liberty Lake City Council | 7 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, City Hall, 22710 E. Country Vista Drive Liberty Lake Parks and Arts Commission | 4 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month, City Hall, 22710 E. Country Vista Drive
• Estate Planning • Probate and Trust Administration • Long-Term Care Planning • Free Initial Consultation
Liberty Lake Kiwanis | 6:45 a.m. on the first Wednesdays of each month, City Hall, 22710 E. Country Vista Drive. Friends of Liberty Lake Municipal Library | 1 p.m. the last Thursday of each month, Liberty Lake Municipal Library, 23123 E. Mission Ave. Liberty Lake Lions Club | Noon to 1 p.m., every first and third Wednesday of each month at Barlows, 1428 N. Liberty Lake Road. For more, call Alene at 509-869-7657. Liberty Lake Centennial Rotary Club | Noon to 1 p.m. every Thursday at the Meadowwood Technology Campus, 24021 E. Mission Ave. For more, visit LibertyLakeRotary.org.
(509) 994-1599 • www.tate-lawoffices.com 23403 E Mission Ave, Suite 103, Liberty Lake, WA 99019
No attorney-client relationship is created by this ad, or your use of this ad. Neither your receipt of information from this ad, nor your use of this ad to contact Tate Law Offices, PLLC (hereinafter “the Firm”) or one of its lawyers creates an attorney-client relationship between you and the Firm. You will become a client of the Firm only if you sign an engagement agreement setting forth the scope of the Firm’s engagement, the fee arrangement, and other relevant matters. As a matter of policy, the Firm does not accept a new client without first investigating for possible conflicts of interests and obtaining a signed engagement letter.
Liberty Lake Merchants Association | 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Liberty Lake Portal, 23403 E. Mission Ave., Suite 120. For more, call 509-999-4935. Liberty Lake Municipal Library Board | 1:00 p.m. the second Wednesday of each month, 23123 E. Mission Ave or via Zoom. Liberty Lake Planning Commission | 4 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month, City Hall, 22710 E. Country Vista Drive. Liberty Lake SCOPE | 6:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month, City Hall, 22710 E. Country Vista Drive. Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District Board | 4 p.m. on the second Monday of each month, 22510 E. Mission Ave. Submit items for The Splash Community Calendar by the 15th of the previous month by emailing editor@libertylakesplash.com. Priority is given to noncommercial local events open to the public.
YARD SALE
14 • APRIL 2022
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Student of the Month
Athlete of the Month
Cassidy Haddad is accustomed to leaping over hurdles in the classroom and on the track. The Central Valley senior maintains a 3.95 grade point average and is part of the Leadership class, helping to organize community service projects like the food drive and social activities. Last season, she placed first in the Greater Spokane League district meet in the 100-yard hurdles and 300-yard hurdles. She has lettered in track all four years and also participates in soccer and cheerleading. The Liberty Lake resident volunteers at Valley Real Life Church and has two parttime jobs. She plans to attend Grand Canyon University and earn her teaching degree. “I think it would be super rewarding to be a teacher,” she said. “I would like to make a positive impact on kids like so many teachers have had an impact on my life.”
Skeptic soccer fans who doubted Ridgeline High School could begin the Greater Spokane League season undefeated forgot to consult Rudy Malloy. The Falcons’ junior team captain has been at the center of a dynamic 6-0 start for the young squad that upset GSL leader Lewis and Clark at Hart Field on March 25, 2-1. Other substantial wins have occurred against North Central, Gonzaga Prep and East Valley. “I think our team is extra-motivated to show we’re here to play,” Malloy said. As a freshman at Central Valley, Malloy was one of only two freshmen to letter. He has also played club soccer for the Spokane Shadow, Elite Player Development and Spokane Sounders. Last year, the midfielder was named All-GSL Honorable Mention. In the classroom, Malloy maintains a 3.89 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society.
Citizen of the Month Whoever said, “It’s never too late to learn,” may have been referring to Jennifer “Jen” Ballantyne. The Liberty Lake resident enrolled at Gonzaga Law School at the age of 57, earning her degree in 2014 and passing the Washington State Bar a year later. She founded Estates & Elders PLLC in 2016, a firm specializing in estate planning, powers of attorney, probate work and applications to Medicaid. Ballantyne earned her Bachelor’s in Journalism from Ohio State in 1974 and later established a successful career in software sales. She has volunteered at the Gonzaga Elder Law Clinic, Senior Action Network of Eastern Washington and the Alzheimer’s Association where she teaches legal/financial workshops and leads care-partner conferences. She is on a committee to make Washington a dementia-free state. Jen and her husband Gary have three kids and eight grandkids in their blended family.
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Trustworthiness By Michael Dunn
Superintendent, NorthEast Washington Educational Service District 101 The words of Indira Gandhi ring often, and loudly, in my ears: “You can’t shake hands with a clenched fist.” Amidst a time during which so much of what we may have once thought normal or predictable has been disrupted, and in which forces of division seem at work to pry us apart rather than bring us together, I ponder how many fists are reactively clenched. For years, I have read and strived to follow the wisdom of Stephen Covey who directly stated, “If you want to be trusted, be trustworthy.” Can I – or anyone – trust, be trusted, and be perceived as trustworthy with hands – or heart or mind – closed? For me, the answer is no. And I want to trust, to be trusted, and to be trustworthy. I think most with whom I share the planet want the same. So, where to begin? With myself. With my palm open. With what I say; perhaps more importantly with what I do – my actions and behavior. And with an understanding that what I see, what I hear, depends on where and how and what I look and listen for. Fist unclenched; eyes and ears open; neither heart nor mind closed. I must give due heed to more of Covey’s wisdom: “Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most important ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships.” I need to embrace the reality that it begins with the reflection in my own mirror. Raised by good parents, I was taught that it is always and ever important to treat others with decency, dignity and respect. As parents, my spouse and I stressed the same importance with our (now grown) children. Conceptually, this is easy. In practice, however, it requires constant awareness that such commitments are due all, not only those we know and care about or with whom we philosophically agree. Espousing I believe this is insufficient; it necessitates that I assure my words and actions match the belief.
I need to trust that others are positively intended, and earn their trust that I am. If I fall short, or others do, acknowledging and correcting my shortcomings is not dependent on forces or circumstances over which I have little control; it falls on me. On the choices I make to speak, act, treat others and live in a trustworthy way. Trustworthiness cannot be – should not be – conditional on the presence, or lack thereof, of this quality in anyone else. I may not agree with someone. I may feel mistreated, misunderstood, or not respected by another. But I still and always am held to my own trustworthiness; to a fundamental commitment that I want to be trusted to speak and act honestly and respectfully, and to an assurance that I accord decency and dignity to
others…regardless of whether that is returned. Life has been disrupted in various ways. Divisions, sometimes even meanness, are sown. Yet, trust and trustworthiness mean my fist must remain unclenched; my eyes, ears, mind and heart always kept open. And before anyone else can or will see that, I must answer to the eyes looking back in my own mirror. Michael Dunn, a 43-year education veteran, became superintendent of NorthEast Washington Educational Service District 101 in 2008. Previously he worked as a teacher and administrator in districts of diverse size and setting. Dunn started his career as a high school social studies teacher in the rural Ritzville School District and later served as a high school principal in the Spokane (Shadle Park) and Mead (Mt. Spokane) districts.
18 • APRIL 2022
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HISTORY
APRIL 2022 • 19
20 • APRIL 2022
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About and for Liberty Lake seniors
Over the Hill Gang back together By Ashley Humbird Splash Contributor
In a world where virtual friendships have become the norm, a group of over one hundred members stands out as being hardy to the changing of the times. The Over the Hill Gang whose members frequent the Liberty Lake Golf Course and MeadowWood Golf Course every Monday to share in fellowship and sportsmanship. It’s a bright March afternoon and after playing a game of golf, a group of distinguished gentlemen sit around a cast iron table. They sip their beverages of choice and ponder their day in the sun while sitting on the Liberty Lakes Golf Courses’ Clubhouse patio. To an outsider, they would seem like any other group of friends. But to the regulars who play at Liberty Lake
Golf Course they are more; the matching beige hats they wear gives them away. Bold black print. Simple font. Over the Hill Gang.
the south, Mead to the North, Five Mile to the West, and CDA to the East; are all welcome to be a part of the comradery and enjoyment.
Sitting around that table are: Gary McInturff, who is in his first year serving as president after serving two years as Vice President; Ken Hamm serving in his tenth year as the group’s Treasurer; Joe Hauser, the gang’s Chairman; and Phil Hanson, an Over the Hill Gang member. They have finished up their four-player game. The group celebrated their 40th year anniversary last year and are gearing up for the first official day of the 2022 season starting April 4th. Part of the membership fee goes to the kickoff lunch they will host the weekend before to help build anticipation and excitement for the upcoming season. It’s a time to come together after the long winter where some of their members travel to warmer climates and have made the journey back to the greater Spokane area.
A group formed in 1981 by Max Gray for people who wanted to have fun and have a reserved block of set time at the Liberty Lake Golf Course, during which they evolved into a formal organized non-profit. They keep the dues low. A yearly membership fee of $55.00 grants your entry into this gang, With age being the only requirement Members must be at least 60 years of age, or turning 60 in their year of play. The gang had a peak of 131 members pre-COVID, but as with many other institutions, the gang has since had their membership dip, they are currently sitting at 115 members.
Members come from all over the Inland Northwest. From Cheney to
One perk of being an Over the Hill Gang member is establishing your handicap and having assistance from Steve Christianson, who is the reigning handicap chair and ‘is the man to become best friends with.’ A handicap in golf is a way to ‘level
the playing field’ based on a player’s ability and scores from the previously played games. At the mention of sandbagging, a term for a player who played badly on purpose to achieve a higher handicap score, the Over the Hill Gang members react as one: no’s are heard around the table. The gang takes sportsmanship seriously and holds their members to a high standard of integrity, The gang looks onto the course as a group of about 15 younger golfers step onto a mound near a sand trap. “Part of our dues are donated to the pro shop here at the Liberty Lake Golf Course,” Ken explains. “We donated between $300-$500 dollars each year to the Youth Golf Program. It allows them to buy balls, pay teetimes and more. I bet some of those young people were in the program.” Phil investigates and reports that they are part of a golf team at a local school and that 8 students were in the Youth Golf program. The students attend Central Valley High school and are on the golf team. The team name ‘Bears’ stands out on the baby blue of their golf bags. The community involvement of just one group touches the lives of all ages. They believe in teaching the younger generation to respect, appreciate, and love the game that they themselves hold in such high regard.
Photo by Ashley Humbird From left: Steve Christianson-Handicap Chair, Ken Hamm-Treasurer, Joe Hauser- Games Chairman, Phil HansonMember, and Gary McInturff-President
Gary, the President, works closely with the managers at both of the Spokane County owned and operated golf courses in Liberty Lake to set a schedule for when the gang will be on their courses. In addition to playing golf, they mix it up some weeks by playing different golf games to grow and build on their skills. With the start of Spring, you can be sure you find seventyplus members of the Over the Hill Gang each Monday on one of the two Liberty Lake courses enjoying the centuries old game where the rules are simple: Play the ball as it lies, play everything into the hole, and play the game as it was intended to be played when first conceived by the Royal and Ancients from the Scottish ancestry of the grand old game.
APRIL 2022 • 21
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22 • APRIL 2022
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U.S. Kids Golf Tour expands game for youth, families By Craig Howard Splash Contributing Editor
As the longtime PGA director of golf at MeadowWood Golf Course in Liberty Lake, Bob Scott has seen the trends of youth golf ebb and flow over the years. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Scott noticed “real push for junior golf” as other sports shut down or were restricted for safety reasons. “There’s definitely resurgence,” Scott said.
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This spring, Scott will welcome the return of a program that will bring more opportunities for kids to play the game competitively while including their families in the process.
Asmus and Haggerty each have two kids that will be playing on the tour. Scott gave credit to both golf dads for getting the program back on track. “Before Aaron and Ryan, it just didn’t seem like it was taking off,” Scott said. “I think their enthusiasm and just reaching out to so many people has had a positive ripple effect.” Haggerty said the response to the tour has been encouraging. In addition to MeadowWood, the spring tour will include the Liberty Lake Golf Course, Stoneridge, just north of Rathdrum and Prairie Falls in Post Falls among others. The season will culminate with a tour championship at the Palouse Ridge Golf Course in Pullman. “People we’ve talked to have been really responsive,” Haggerty said.
Haggerty has also approached courses in places like Yakima and the Tri-Cities which traditionally feature warmer weather in the fall, which could mean extending that season into November. As news of the Inland Northwest tour has spread, youth from outside the Spokane area, including California, Montana and Oregon, have signed up. “The Seattle tour is tough to get into, so we’re seeing more interest in what we’re doing here,” Haggerty said. “We don’t want this to just be a Spokane tour just for Spokane kids.” Asmus is quick to point out that the tour is “not a direct competitor” to the Washington Junior Golf Association or Idaho Junior Golf Association, two programs known for their summer seasons. Asmus and Haggerty say one unique aspect of the tour is the
An Inland Northwest chapter of the U.S. Kids Golf Tour will open its spring season at MeadowWood on April 2 after a hiatus of over five years. The tour is open to kids 5-18 and will feature two seasons – spring, from April through May and fall, from August through October.
“It’s about creating lifelong memories beyond just a kid out there on their own,” Asmus said. “Even if it’s just encouragement, a parent saying, ‘I’m here for you, I’m here to help.’ It really levels the playing experience for the kids so it’s not so daunting.” The family caddie option does come with a caveat, Asmus noted. “It’s great as long as your kid doesn’t fire you,” he said. Tee markers for each tournament are based on ages of competitors. Kids 6-8, for example would play a par-4 averaging between 150 to 175 yards while 9-11-year-olds would ramp up to 250-275 yards for a par4. The sign-ups for spring season have totaled an average of around 18 kids per tournament. Cost per membership is $40 with the price per tournament $45 for 6-10-yearolds and $55 for 11-18. Asmus said kids on the tour should have “some foundational understanding of how to play golf” while pointing out that the program will offer a variety of opportunities for those who participate. “The goal is to have a balance,” Asmus said. “You could have kids who are there trying to qualify for regional, national or international tournaments and others who are just playing with their friends and developing with the game.”
“I think it’s a great program,” said Scott. “U.S. Kids Tour is a place where a lot of kids can get into the game and families can too.” Liberty Lake residents Aaron Asmus and Ryan Haggerty have led the charge to bring the tour back to Eastern Washington after the family that ran the program moved out of the area. Asmus said the goal is to offer more opportunities for competitive play beyond the short summer season that has traditionally been offered. “This is about the next generation of golf and bringing more kids to the game,” Asmus said. “This is going to give kids on this side of the state opportunities that kids on the west side of the state have already.”
inclusion of families. Parents can caddie for their kids and offer advice and support throughout the rigors of a tournament.
The tour is under the umbrella of the U.S. Kids Golf Foundation, an organization established in 2001 with a mission to “help kids have fun learning the lifelong game of golf and to encourage family interaction that builds lasting memories.” Photo by Tami Haggerty After a hiatus of over five years, the U.S. Kids Golf Tour returns to the Inland Northwest this spring with a debut tournament at MeadowWood Golf Course in Liberty Lake on April 2. Golf dads Aaron Asmus and Ryan Haggerty, both Liberty Lake residents, have been the catalysts in bring the tour back to the area.
“Golf is a lifelong sport,” Scott said. “It’s a family sport.” For more information about the local chapter of the U.S. Kids Golf Tour, email uskgspokane@gmail. com.
APRIL 2022 • 23
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SVFD REPORT Continued from page 5
family home to find smoke coming from a backyard structure behind the garage of the residence and confirmed a working structure fire. Crews quickly sized up the structure and extended an attack hose line down the driveway to the backyard and into the structure to extinguish the fire. There were no firefighter or civilian injuries reported and one patient was evaluated at the scene and after evaluation required no further treatment on scene or transport. A wood stove was stated as the cause of the fire by a resident of the structure. Damage was confined to the shop which was the original structure. With an aggressive attack, firefighters were able to save the structure and the building remained intact after operations were completed. Mar. 14 - Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to a reported apartment fire at approximately 7:05 p.m., at the Manorvale Apartments in the east 10100 block of Main Avenue, in Spokane Valley. A neighbor saw flames through the window and called 911. The initial responding units saw smoke coming from a single upstairs apartment. VE2 attacked the fire with a preconnected hose line while other crews evacuated adjoining units. The fire unit was searched, and a dog was found inside. The dog was taken outside, but resuscitation efforts failed. Two adults and a child live in the apartment, but they were not home at the time of the fire.
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The cause of the fire was determined to be a pot left on the stove. The fire damage was limited to the apartment of origin, but the apartment below suffered water damage. Red Cross assisted the family. No injuries were reported. Significant Incidents: Alarm System – February 28, 2:12 p.m. - Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) VE3 was dispatched for the report of an alarm sounding for water flow. Valley Ladder 10 (VL10) arrived and was cancelled by Valley Engine 3 (VE3). VE3 arrived to find a medium 2-story commercial structure with a basement and nothing showing. VE3 made access
to the building, found the alarm panel, investigated, and found the alarm to be functioning properly and not in alarm. VE3 contacted the maintenance person who stated they were not having problems at the property. Crews reset the alarms with no problems being found or observed. VE3 cancelled VL10. No further assistance needed from VE3. Crews returned in service Chimney Fire – Mar. 3, 10:17 p.m. – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) Valley Engine 4 (VE4) crews responded to a report of a chimney fire. VE4 crews arrived to find a 2-story small residential with light smoke noted from the chimney. VE4 laddered the roof and assisted the homeowner with removing the flashing around the chimney to find smoke venting from cracks in the chimney and a notch for the flashing. Charred roof decking was noted and VE4 removed approximately 3-4" of materials from around the chimney. Homeowner removed burning materials from his fireplace and was advised to not burn in the fireplace until it can be inspected. No extension was noted into the attic space. The homeowner said he would continue to check on the chimney overnight and seek professional help during business hours. Extrication – Mar. 7, 6:06 a.m. – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) crews responded to a vehicle vs a semi-truck. Crews arrived to find a multi-vehicle collision on eastbound I90 near the Otis Orchards and Liberty Lake exit requiring extrication. One patient was trapped inside the front driver side of the vehicle. Valley Engine 3 (VE3) and Valley Ladder 10 (VL10) crews were assigned to extrication and patient care. Valley 31 (V31) arrived and was assigned safety of the extrication. Valley Engine 5 (VE5) taped off the area to create a safe zone for crews to work and for the bystanders near the scene. Valley Engine 4 (VE4) crews provided stabilization of the semi-trailer. Life Flight was inbound, so crews set up a landing zone for them to land just east of the incident. Once the patient was safely extricated and transported, crews assisted with cleanup of the area. Connect with SVFD at: spokanevalleyfire.com. For department news, safety information, and timely updates, find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
The Splash
Launching a new Education program in Liberty Lake By Shaun Brown Splash contributor
Energy, excitement, and miniature marshmallows filled the air at the grand opening of Liberty Launch Academy. Despite freezing temperatures and gale force February winds, parents, prospective students, and interested community members gathered in the MeadowWood Technology. Race cars, space tents, and science experience centers offered a foreshadowing of the transformation underway in preparation for the start of the 2022 school year. Sam Abrams, who grew up riding his bike through the neighborhoods of Liberty Lake, will serve as Head of School for the academy. With a Masters in Education Leadership from Eastern Washington, Sam has years of experience teaching inside and outside the United States. During his eight years overseas as an educator in Qatar, Sam successfully started two schools and has inspired hundreds of young people to achieve higher education despite cultural and economic obstacles. Sam shared his passion for helping children learn and his vision for the Liberty Launch Academy with an audience of approximately sixty parents and grandparents during the opening hour of the festivities. Personalized learning can take many forms, and the Academy plans to embrace different models to meet the needs of their students. Project based learning was on display as kids of all ages surrounded the hands-on stations. Lincoln, age 7, shared that he most enjoyed building bridges with gumdrops, straws, and toothpicks. Kellen, age ten, expressed his preference for the science stations. “I like creating stuff like this,” Kellen said, holding up his newly constructed catapult. Built with a spoon to launch miniature marshmallows, Kellen’s creation was proving a great source of entertainment for Brydee Mackin’s one year old.
BUSINESS Mother of four, Brydee watching her older kids engage in various projects, even as she stayed busy preventing the toddler’s attempts to consume the launched marshmallows. “My first impression is I’m excited for my kids to be more engaged in learning,” Brydee shared. “We homeschool now, and I love to see this,” she added pointing to the disarray on and under the project tables. “When kids make a mess, you know they’re engaged.” Engaged learning is a major focus for Academy founder Luke Kjar. “We believe that learning has no walls,” Kjar stated, announcing his plans for a science, technology, engineering, and math program titled STEM at the Stateline. “Imagine learning the law of thermodynamics with monster trucks at the racetrack,” he explained. As a private school, the Academy will enjoy the flexibility to explore a variety of learning curriculums and environments, unfettered by state mandated curriculum. Describing the exciting path ahead, Kjar shared pictures of the transformation planned over the next six months as the Academy prepares to welcome 180 boys and girls from kindergarten through eighth grade. “We want this to be the learning playground for kids,” he shared. “This is the school I wish I would have had growing up.” Athletics will be a major focus of the Liberty Launch Academy, with plans for rugby, running, soccer, basketball, wrestling, rowing, ultimate frisbee, golf, and volleyball. In addition to the physical, social, and
emotional growth, Kjar explained his vision to connect athletics to education. Challenging the listening parents to tell him the optical arc of a three-point shot, Kjar highlighted the opportunity to engage kids in the science behind something they love, such as basketball. Community engagement will also be a central focus at the Academy. A set of bunkbeds near the far wall stood as an example of project-based learning that will make a difference. Students will build beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace charity and deliver them to children in the region who might otherwise have to sleep on the floor. Community members in every industry are invited to get involved, as mentors, learning partners, or volunteer instructors. Abrams’ continued to visit with parents one on one as families came and went throughout the evening. A common theme heard from both Abrams and Kjar was their shared vision and commitment to “disrupting education for good.” Luke Kjar has an impressive track record of successful disruption in the business world and Sam Abrams has a legacy of successful students who showcase the success of his disruptive educating practices. In his years at Mead High School, his ninth graders had one of the highest standardized test scores recorded at the school. In Qatar, his efforts were hailed the number one education initiative in the country and every single student in his program was accepted to a university, some to Georgetown, Texas A&M and Depaul.
APRIL 2022 • 25
With three children of his own, Sam and his wife Angie look forward to figuratively expanding their family to include the students, teachers, and volunteers at Liberty Launch Academy. Staffing for the new school is underway with immediate focus on finding the right person to lead the development of the elementary school curriculum. Kjar announced they are accepting applications and will pay a $10,000 bonus to the best candidate. The role will include a one-milliondollar budget for the purpose of building out the “dream school and dream teaching team and dream curriculum.” Kjar also announced $500,000 in scholarship funds for the 2022 school year. Tuition for the academy aligns with the average tuition cost for private schools in Washington State and offers graduated tiers based on need. Kjar explained that an outside firm will evaluate applications and allocate scholarship dollars based on family circumstances. The grand opening on February 21st marked the opening of enrollment for the Liberty Launch Academy. But if you missed the festivities, information sessions will be held every Monday evening at 24001 East Mission Avenue where the Academy is starting to take shape. Additional details are available at www.libertylaunchacademy. org along with a link for students, mentors, community partners, and teachers to join this exciting educational adventure.
26 • APRIL 2022
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APRIL 2022 • 27
In Memoriam of Thomas Specht By Jessica Specht Guest contributor
Thomas Specht passed away January 25th, 2022 at the age of 72. Throughout his life he has made many contributions to the Liberty Lake community. He helped with the trail system, the Pavilion Park and the pedestrian overpass that connects the Liberty Lake trail system to the Centennial trail. He was on the original park committee that eventually became Friends of Pavilion Park. On FOPP he served as a Board Member for many years as President and Secretary. In that capacity he started and headed up the Trails Committee. Prior to his time with FOPP he was involved with the Liberty Lake Property Owners Association. He was also involved with the Liberty Lake Historical Society. My dad was also Chairman of the
Liberty Lake Trail Benefit District Advisory Board and it was in that role that he assisted with the I-90 pedestrian overpass. He would be the first to acknowledge that these achievements were a group effort and that he was fortunate to work some very dedicated and talented individuals over the years.
My dad moved to Liberty Lake in 1985, the year I was born. As his daughter I can remember walking the path for the community trail system with my dad and some people from the Trails Committee before the trail system existed when I was just a kid. He often used his bike to commute to and from work back when he was working for Hewlett Packard in Liberty Lake before the trails were put in. Also, while he was working for Hewlett Packard he came up with the idea to put a pavilion
on the Hewlett Packard property that could be used for different events and he was in charge of its construction. Aside from the obvious influence of the historic dance pavilion (that existed by the beach on the west side of the lake at the Liberty Lake Park circa 1910), I think that building a pavilion at Hewlett Packard might have motivated some of his suggestions as far as having a pavilion at Pavilion Park. As far as I know that first pavilion he helped build is still on the old Hewlett Packard property. Before there was a splash pad at Pavilion Park we went on vacation down the Oregon coast one year when I was a kid and I played in the first splash pad we had ever seen. He also assisted with organizing and participated in the FOPP’s Annual Fundraiser, the Holiday Ball at the Davenport. My dad was very proud of the
community that he lived in and he started a yearly concert down at the Beachcombers community beach access so more people could get out and enjoy Liberty Lake. He was very active, practicing yoga everyday, skating on the lake, going kayaking and taking his dog Mona on hikes. He loved watching the Zags play and watching Seahawks football. He played in an over 40 soccer league well into his 60's. My dad coached me in soccer from Peewee league all the way to high school and he taught me how to ski when I was three years old. He worked as an Industrial Engineer most of his life having gone to Oklahoma University and getting his Master's at University of Washington. He enjoyed the Sunday crossword puzzle and he used to call my grandma Martin to get any answers that him and my mom had missed since she always had it completed before them. My dad was funny and charming and he will be missed. He was an amazing father. There will be a memorial service at the community beach access off of First Ave. and Hillview Rd. on April 16th at 11am. Reception to follow. Please RSVP at https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/ RSVPSignUp/60b0b4dacab23a57thomas.
Contributed photos He is survived by his wife Kathy, his daughter Jessica, his two brothers Dan and David and his two sisters Stephanie and Mary. He was preceded in death by his mother and father Homer and Madeline Specht, his brother Randy and sister Charlotte.
Publisher note: Tom partnered with The Splash for several years bringing us stories of dreamy visions of the lake and enticing readers to enjoy this great community he helped build. He will be greatly missed and our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family as they work through this tremendous loss.
28 • APRIL 2022
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