Phil Messick remembers putting together a LEGO pirate ship as a kid, a complex assembly in the neighborhood of 1,000 pieces.
Years later, Messick is still in the construction field, only this time around, his work involves layers of design drawings, constant networking with a variety of contractors and keeping an eye on the city of Liberty Lake’s ongoing infrastructure needs.
Since starting as the city’s firstever project manager last May, Messick has proven to be a treasure.
“Phil has been doing a great job,” said City Planning and Engineering Manager Lisa Key. “He has been consistently delivering projects ontime and on-budget which is not easy when you consider the current environment for construction.”
When Messick’s wife Elisha saw the posting for project manager last March, Messick was skeptical of his chances.
“I felt like they’d want someone who had already been a project manager,” he said.
Messick brought a background that included nine years with the city of Spokane. He rose the ranks during his tenure there, holding positions like construction crew lead and Public Works inspector while developing expertise in the area of sanitary and storm sewers.
Before launching his career in municipal government, Messick worked five years in construction. The ups and downs of the industry left him searching for something less volatile.
“I liked the stability and consistency of city government,” he said.
Before Messick was hired last March, a dedicated project manager had never been part of the employee lineup in Liberty Lake. Key said the time had come to hire a full-time
person for the role.
“Just based on the volume of capital projects, we needed to add to our technical expertise,” she said. “Phil has been really good at identifying problems in the field as well as deficiencies during inspections.”
When Messick started last spring, the Harvard Road Bridge widening project was well underway. Installing a trio of flashing traffic beacons was also on the agenda as was the ambitious span across I-90 known as the Kramer Parkway Overpass and its accompanying project, transforming Kramer Road to include a traffic light and
roundabout.
In his first week on the job, Messick surveyed the community and discussed project priorities with then-City Engineer Ben Schmitt. Despite being the first person in Liberty Lake’s 20-year history to hold the title of project manager, Messick felt unfazed.
“I wasn’t super concerned,” he said. “I knew I was going to lean on Ben a lot for what I was supposed to do.”
Messick tackled his transition from the westside of the state to Spokane in January of 2008 with similar aplomb. Following his older brother’s lead, Messick left his hometown of Puyallup and relocated to the Inland Northwest, instantly appreciating the lower cost of living and lighter flow of traffic
compared to the Puget Sound area. Despite record-setting snowfall in greater Spokane that winter, Messick felt at home.
“Other than the snow, I knew right away it was a good fit,” he said.
In Puyallup, Messick played football in high school and was an Eagle Scout. His father served in the Air Force and later worked as a technician at Camp Murray Air Guard Station in Tacoma. Messick graduated from Puyallup High School in 2006 and latched on with Comcast.
“I wasn’t really thinking of college,” he said. “I just wanted to get a job and work.”
That perspective changed after Messick moved east of the Cascades. He attended classes at Spokane Community College and Spokane Falls Community College before earning his bachelor’s degree in management from Bismarck State College.
The same year Messick moved to Spokane, he enlisted in the Air National Guard. He would go on to serve nine years, working in aircraft maintenance and fulfilling deployments to Qatar, Germany and England.
“My dad definitely had an influence,” Messick said. “He gave me direction. It was something that gave you family pride.”
For Messick, the experience in the service translated into sharper career focus.
“It was huge,” he said. “It’s a great example of hierarchy that really helps you understand your role and your place.”
Looking ahead, Messick said Liberty Lake will have no shortage of capital work after high-profile projects like the Kramer Overpass and Trailhead clubhouse renovation are completed. A revamping of Country Vista from Liberty Lake Road to Ridgeline High School is among the priorities.
“There’s a lot of work out there,” he said. “I figure the projects we take on up until (city) buildout, will
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take up a good chunk of my career.”
Messick and his wife are proud parents of two kids, 7 and 5.
Q: You grew up in Western Washington but transitioned to the eastside as you were starting your professional career. What do you see as some of the major differences between the two sides of the state and why have you decided to remain east of the Cascades?
A: One of the first things I noticed was people in the Inland Northwest seemed less stressed and were very friendly. Secondly, traffic was much better and, at the time, housing costs were much more affordable than in Western Washington. I also liked the smaller community feel that was present, whereas growing up in Western Washington, there was that community feel but at times it seemed like an endless city after city.
Q: Why did you decide to enlist in the Air National Guard and how has that experience benefited you both personally and professionally?
A: There were multiple reasons. My parents and many numerous extended family members had served with many still serving in the different branches of the military. This gave me a large example of what serving could look like, plus many people to discuss questions to help decide to serve. I also wanted to serve a greater purpose and work side-by-side with others who had the same goal. On top of that, I was looking to gain career experience and skills and utilize the GI Bill to pay for schooling.
Q: What was it about the municipal government that appealed to you as a career route?
A: A huge benefit that I saw was the robust training that many municipal government entities have and use to invest in their employees. I also liked the stability and limited traveling out of the region that this career field offers. Also, I saw a very structured system with a clear career ladder that I could work to climb and achieve my career goals.
Q: Before you became an employee of the city of Liberty Lake, what did you notice about the community that you found interesting or unique?
A: I always liked how Liberty Lake was a smaller community
than its neighbors and to me had the quiet small-town feel but still offered a lot to its residents or anyone visiting. I also enjoyed going to the Liberty Lake Farmers Market, Zephyr Lodge and Liberty Lake Regional Park. While the lodge and regional park are not part of the city, I always associated them with the community here when attending my brother- in-law’s wedding weekend at the Zephyr Lodge or the hikes my wife and me enjoyed at the Liberty Lake Regional Park.
Q: It sounded like you initially felt you had an outside chance at best to be hired as Liberty Lake’s project manager. What changed during the application and interview process that made it clear you were a viable candidate?
A: Going into the interview process, my thoughts were with Liberty Lake being a smaller municipality they might be looking for candidates that had held an equivalent position at another municipality and not be open to candidates who hadn’t held the position of project manager. I hadn’t held the position of project manager and was coming from being a Public Works inspector. I had no concerns about being ready to progress from Public Works inspector to project manager but didn’t know if the leadership at Liberty Lake would or wouldn’t be open to that. During the interview process, it didn’t take long for me to realize that the interviewers saw I was ready to make the next step in my career and transition to a project manager.
Q: As the city’s first-ever project manager, what kind of learning curve are you facing in comparison to taking on the same role with a jurisdiction where there is more context and history?
A: Luckily for me, when I joined Liberty Lake the role of project manager was being fulfilled by the city engineer and director of Planning, Engineering and Building Services. Between my experience working with project managers in the past and Lisa (Key) and Ben (Schmitt) at the time having a system of what they expected in place, the learning curve wasn’t too difficult. They both were very supportive in getting me lined out and on the correct path from day one and making their expectations clear. While I may have faced a steeper learning curve than other jurisdictions, between the great team I am a part of and my career
experience, it has been a smooth process.
Q: What would you say are the primary responsibilities of a municipal project manager and how do those duties differ from a more traditional project manager through a contractor?
A: The primary responsibilities of a municipal project manager are to run projects from cradle to grave. Identifying priorities through working with the City Council and director priorities in the development and continued adjustment of the Capital Facilities Plan. Coordination with the design team to assure the project scope covers the strategic goals of that project. Go through the bid process, then after the bid is awarded begin coordination with the prime contractor on the project. During the project, review submittals and third-party inspections, conduct inspections, negotiate any necessary change orders, be the liaison between the prime and city with any modifications needed to be made in the project and manage the budget and payments. Go through the acceptance and closeout process with the contract. While a more traditional project manager through a contractor has similar duties, theirs typically begin after the award of the contract to the contractor, Contractors typically have project estimators that review potential jobs and bid on them and the project manager typically steps in when the job is awarded and manages it throughout the construction and closeout process.
Q: How has your background with the city of Spokane contributed to your ability to tackle th responsibilities in your new role?
A: It has played a big role in my career getting off to a good start here at Liberty Lake. The city of Spokane has many experienced and knowledgeable people that I worked with and for while employed there. From project managers and Public Works inspectors that were quick to share their knowledge and experience, to supervisors that made sure you had the training and everything you needed to succeed and fantastic peers I worked amongst at the various city departments. I had a solid foundation to take the next step in my career path and the team here at Liberty Lake is strong and was quick to show me the ropes and help in any way I needed.
Q: As an insider on large-scale capital projects like the Kramer Parkway Overpass, what insight can you share with residents, especially motorists, who may be feeling a little antsy about the time frame for completion of such projects?
A: While these projects may not be proceeding as fast as initially intended or at the rate we would all like, progress is being made. With the roundabout on Mission Avenue being completed, motorists can use Mission Avenue and Country Vista freely. The overpass is being built to high quality and will be a major addition to the community after its completion.
Sports, academics, community service, leadership – whatever the arena, the gauge of excellence registers ditto for this Central Valley senior. George Ditto maintains a 4.0 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society where he contributes to efforts like an annual blanket drive. As part of CV’s Leadership program, Ditto helps organize events such as a new student breakfast and fall food drive. “It’s fulfilling to give back and help others and be part of a group that is invested in that,” Ditto said. The senior has played football all four years, lettering twice. He has also competed in track and basketball. An Eagle Scout, Ditto built a playhouse for the YMCA Early Learning Center as his Eagle Project. He plans to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after graduation.
Volleyball at Ridgeline High School has been among elite programs in the Greater Spokane League recently thanks in no small part to Corinne Westby. The senior earned All GSL first team honors as a junior and senior and was named to the second team as a sophomore at Central Valley. She was also recognized on the Seattle Times All-State Honorable Mention Team last year. She was part of a Falcons’ squad that finished five points short of qualifying for state in 2021 and led Ridgeline to an upset of Mt. Spokane in the district playoffs this season. Westby has served as co-captain the past two years. She maintains a 3.98 grade point average and is part of National Honor Society, Link Crew and the Leadership program. Westby will continue her studies and volleyball career on scholarship at Central Washington University.
When it comes to making a difference, Mark Henry is on board. He serves as Resource Coordinator for Blessings Under the Bridge, a nonprofit that advocates for those experiencing homelessness. He has volunteered for the organization since 2016. A resident of the Liberty Lake area with his wife Anna, Henry also serves on the board of directors for Greater Spokane County Meals on Wheels where he and Anna fulfill a weekly delivery route. He and Anna are also former board members at Spokane Valley Partners Food Bank & Social Services. The couple attends St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish in Otis Orchards where they both volunteer. Henry worked at Itron for 33 years before retiring in 2019. He is a graduate of Gonzaga Prep and Eastern Washington University. “Anytime you can give back, sacrifice or reduce someone’s pain, it’s worth it,” Henry said.
Rising retail prices are causing some Grinch-like impacts right now on personal banking accounts – but some area residents could be able to reduce one specific expenditure by applying for Spokane County’s property tax relief program that is available to eligible senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
This program, which is administered by the Spokane County Assessor’s Office, is an option for taxpayers who were at least 61 years old as of last Dec. 31. Applicants must own the house where they live and must have had
Officer Shane Widman is the newest member to the Liberty Lake Police Department. The latest addition to the city’s team of law enforcement officers was sworn in on the morning of Oct. 4 by Chief Damon Simmons.
The new member of the city’s police staff most recently served for several months as a deputy with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and was previously a trooper with the Washington State Patrol from 2014 to 2021.
During his time with the State Patrol, Widman obtained certification as a collision technician which allowed him to perform in-depth collision investigations and analyses. He also earned certification as a drone operator with the State Patrol and served there as a field training officer.
Widman has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Eastern Washington University and an associate degree in liberal arts from the Community Colleges of Spokane.
a combined family income of less than $40,000 during 2021 for the taxes they paid for 2022.
The disability exemption is also available for taxpayers who are unable to work due to a physical disability. The application process requires that a physician’s statement be included as proof of the disability.
Additionally, U.S. military veterans can be eligible if they have an 80-percent serviceconnected disability evaluation or are compensated at a 100-percent rate due to a service-connected disability.
As Liberty Lake City Administrator Mark McAvoy points out: “Housing
prices are driving the current increase in inflation and tend to pull property taxes up as they rise.”
Mayor Cris Kaminskas has proposed a city budget with no property tax increases for the second consecutive year, which helps Liberty Lake homeowners.
“I hope equipping our residents with information about these exemption programs from the county can help some of them secure even more property tax relief,” the mayor said.
Forms for the property tax exemption can be found on the Spokane County Assessor’s website at: www.spokanecounty.org/281/ SeniorDisabled-Person-TaxExemption.
bucket, then randomly pulled out and announced at the podium microphone by Trent Kosanke, 9-year-old son of city streets lead Derek Kosanke.
For the 2022-23 winter season, the city’s grader has been dubbed “Big Boy” while one of the city’s loaders is being called “McPlow” and another loader is known as “Thing 2” and the city’s freightliner now has the name of “Ice Queen.”
Each name has been placed on magnetic signs that are now on each vehicle. City residents will be able to see those names as the plows conduct their street side duties this winter.
If you’ve been eligible for this tax relief during the past few years but have never taken advantage of it, the county is still accepting application forms to refund taxes paid in 2021 from 2020 income, as well as for the taxes paid in 2020. However, the window is closing soon on exemption applications for any taxes paid in 2019, and those will need to be submitted into the Spokane County Assessor’s Office or postmarked no later than Dec. 31 of this year.
For further information on how you can use this program – or on how you can assist a family member in benefitting from it –call the Spokane County Assessor’s Office at 509-477-5754.
Winter Glow returns holiday warmth, cheer to Orchard Park
Liberty Lake’s annual Winter Glow Spectacular is colorfully lighting up the night at Orchard Park through Jan. 1. This year’s seasonal display has been delighting visitors since 2019 and has become a community holiday tradition.
You can now call them “The Plows with Snow Names.”
During the Liberty Lake City Council meeting on Oct. 18, names were selected for the city’s fourvehicle fleet of snowplows, using ideas gathered from the public.
The collection of publicly proposed names from earlier this year were placed into a plastic
This is the first time the city’s snowplows have ever been given names. Plans call for the process to be administered again next year, allowing the public to come up with new names for the four plows.
City residents can learn about snow removal activities and routes for this winter at the “Snow Removal” web page on the city’s website at www.libertylakewa. gov/431/Snow-Removal. That page also includes information on how to sign up to receive current snowplowing updates via the “Notify Me” text messaging alert service.
Opening ceremonies for 2022 Winter Glow will take place Saturday, Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. and will feature an appearance by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, the band and cheerleaders from Ridgeline High School band and “Yeti” the Winter Glow mascot.
Around 50 dedicated team of volunteers contributed their time over several weeks to set up this multi-colored holiday gift to the Liberty Lake community and its visitors. This year’s version will feature over 200 displays.
By Craig Howard Splash Contributing Editor
In the early days of incorporated Liberty Lake, Police Chief Brian Asmus drove around in a patrol car on loan from the city of Spokane. His department featured a small collection of officers who, like their chief, grew accustomed to 12-hour shifts day after day.
Asmus also wore multiple hats. One responsibility he shared with Community Development Director Doug Smith was to organize makeshift City Council chambers each week at the Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District headquarters, complete with chairs, microphones and nameplates.
Every Friday, Asmus and his fellow city employees would split up cleaning duties on the lower level of the Greenstone building on Meadowwood Lane that served as the humble home of the first City Hall.
“(City Clerk) Arlene Fisher would say, ‘Grab a mop, grab a broom, grab a vacuum,” Asmus remembers. “We all just pitched in. You did what needed to be done.”
One day, Asmus told City Administrator Lewis Griffin that a traffic sign was in need of repair. Later, Asmus found a pile of tools on his desk.
“I went in and asked Grif about it,” Asmus said. “He said, ‘Well, you said something was broke. Now you can fix it.’ So, I did.”
Instances of employee multitasking at City Hall are less common these days. When Liberty Lake became an official city on Aug. 31, 2001, the population hovered around 4,000. That number is closer to 13,000 now. The first year of the city featured less than a dozen on staff. There are now 71 full-time employees and nine part-time employees who call Liberty Lake their professional home.
“We want to consistently
maintain and improve the high level of city services,” said Mayor Cris Kaminskas. “I come from a manufacturing background and I’ve tried to apply that to City Hall. We want the right work being done by the right specialist.”
In her mayor’s address introducing the 2023 budget and reviewing city accomplishments over the past year, Kaminskas called 2022 “the year for building, not just physical assets but also building and investing in our staff and commissions…”
“To all our city employees, I thank you for your dedication and hard work to keep Liberty Lake running smoothly and looking great,” Kaminskas said later in her speech. “I will continue to support additional training to help you grow your career with us at the city. None of what we do would be possible without you.”
Over the past two years, the city has established several new roles, including communications specialist, project manager, senior planner, accounting tech and Human Resources manager. The latter position came about in late 2020 when the city eclipsed the 50-employee mark for the first time and needed to adhere to a new set of state and federal guidelines regarding staff.
Lisa Key came to Liberty Lake from the city of Spokane in April of 2018, first on an interim basis and three months later as the full-time Planning and Engineering manager – another new position. At the time, City Manager Katy Allen was reshuffling the department after the departure of City Engineer Andrew Staples and Planning and Building Services Manager Amanda Tainio.
“I remember they wanted someone who had the skills and experience to handle a multi-faceted department,” Key recalls.
Key currently leads a team that added a senior planner and project manager in the last year. She said there is still some diversifying of roles at City Hall despite the move toward specialization.
“We wear multiple hats as needed,” Key said. “We’re still small and have to be nimble in terms of coverage. I think it creates synergy in your approach when you have a broader sphere of influence.”
Key pointed to the example of her department responding to the damage caused by the extreme hailstorm in August.
“We’ve issued 979 re-roof permits,” she said.
With two inspections required for each property, the workload meant Key, City Engineer David Williams, Senior Planner Amy Mullerleile and Project Manager Phil Messick going through training in roof inspections.
“I think we have a really good, strong team,” Key said. “We all support each other in finding that work-life balance. Plus, we have a very collaborative leadership team and that makes it a lot more fun.”
David Goehner began in April as Liberty Lake’s first full-time communications specialist. With a background as a reporter, Goehner has emerged as the city’s gatekeeper, managing and expanding the social media presence, promoting city events and activities and serving as the municipal liaison on the Community Engagement Commission, among other duties. Prior to Goehner’s arrival, the marketing of the city was routinely divvied up among several staff members.
“Everybody who works here is 100 percent great,” Goehner said. “We’re all just regular people who work for a city.”
Judi Owens, a member of the inaugural City Council, can remember a time before incorporation when one Spokane County Sheriff’s car patrolled the Liberty Lake area as part of an expansive coverage area
that stretched all the way to Rockford to the southeast and Millwood to the west.
“You didn’t see anyone out here,” Owens said. “We were just a blip on their screen.”
Now, the Liberty Lake Police Department features 20 full-time employees.
“That makes me feel safer,” Owens said. “We’ve made good progress as a city.”
Owens and her husband Charlie moved to the Liberty Lake area in 1992, nine years before incorporation. The winter of 1993 brought heavy snow to the area along with the realization that Spokane County crews may not be able to adequately clear some residential areas. At one point, Charlie had to flag down a county truck that drove by their home near Molter.
“We were literally snowed in,” Owens said. “They didn’t think we were on their snow-plow list.”
Now the city boasts four top-ofthe-line snow-plow vehicles and a winter weather budget dedicated to keeping roads clear and safe during the snowy season.
Looking ahead, Kaminskas says increased efficiencies on the staffing side will allow for “more of a strategic focus” as the city approaches anticipated buildout of 18,500 residents in the coming years. The mayor said she and new City Administrator Mark McAvoy will be eyeing “what the financial picture looks like at buildout in areas like parks, roads and the library – and that will drive the budget.”
This guide has been made with our community in mind. We have made a tradition of gathering as many offerings from the heart of our community, small businesses.
Shops have been suffering. These hard working people have been doing their best to keep to keep their doors open in order to keep serving all of you. We hope that you will utilize these exceptional small businesses to choose one of a kind options this holiday season and all year long.
These establishments will guide you to“Eat, Shop and Be Merry.”
Ben Wick, Publisher
509-922-6252, 1100 N Sullivan, Spokane Valley
As the holidays approach, MAX at Mirabeau offers Family Dinner Packs To-Go Menu seven days a week! These dinners feed 4 to 6 people and are available from 4pm to 8pm daily. Please order by 8pm the day before pick-up. Available Curbside, To-Go or by Delivery!
Ferraro’s
509-928-2303, 11204 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
Family owned and operated Italian restaurant. Very family friendly. Take out - curbside pick up we are masked up and sanitized to serve you in a safe environment. Family style dinners (feed 4-5) off the mama classic entrées and take n bakes still available!
Craft and Gather
509-290-5141, 14403 S Dishman Mica, Spokane Valley
LaLozy
509-924-3023, 13917 E Trent, Spokane Valley
If you haven’t yet discovered this unique establishment, get ready! Although they look like just a coffee shop, they also serve fresh, made from scratch, Asian food that you will sure enjoy and be coming back for more. Since discovering this place last year it has become a staple for us. All of their dishes are made to order, using their signature sauces that are made from scratch, using NO MSG. And the couple that owns the establishment is so nice every time.
Conley’s Place Restaurant 509-924-5411, 12622 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
True Legends 509-795-1243, 1803 N Harvard Rd. Liberty Lake
Now serving a new burger menu! “Legendary Movie Villians”. We offer curbside pickup and delivery. Visit www.TrueLegendsGrill.com and place your order.
Longhorn Barbecue
509-924-9600, 2315 N Argonne, Spokane Valley
A longtime family favorite in Spokane Valley. Their sandwiches (beef, turkey, ham, or pork) can be eaten in the restaurant or picked up and taken back to your home to enjoy. Don’t forget their juicy steaks and yummy ribs too!
Shogun
509-534-7777, 20 N Raymond Rd, Spokane Valley
Shogun is a family owned restaurant which has served the community since 1991. Here you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine with a professionally trained Hibachi Chef. Offering lunch and take-out options.
When you’ve finished for the day and need a little extra relaxation.
Snow Eater Brewery
509-862-6954, 2325 N Mckinzie Ln, Liberty Lake
Where beer and adventure meet. Gather and celebrate in the kid-friendly and dog-friendly tap room. All are welcome.
Trailbreaker Cider
509-598-8927, 11003 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
HGWe have drink options for everyone including our 24 taps of cider, beer rotation and wine. Plus amazing food and fun atmosphere for your night out.
509-903-0888, 21801 E Country Vista Dr., Liberty Lake
Authentic Japanese hibachi style dining. Not only is the food delicious, but the experience is worth checking off your list. Offering take-out options.
Millwood Brewing Company
509-368-9538, 9013 E Frederick, Millwood
Millwood Brewing began as a simple idea by a guy who had a passion for really good craft beer. It has become more than just a place that makes beer, it’s where friends meet.
Arbor Crest Winery
509-927-9463, 4705 N Fruit Hill Dr, Spokane
Our Tasting Room & Kitchen is open all year round! Come enjoy new meals and wines added to our menu this winter. Tasting Room & Kitchen is open daily from 12:00 - 5:00PM
The Boneyard
509-435-6773, 17905 E Appleway, Spokane Valley
The Boneyard serves craft cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks featuring our syrups and drink mixes. This all age lounge also serves local beer and wine, along with offering light eats to share.
TT’s Old Iron Brewery 509-919-4798, 4110 S Bowdish, Spokane Valley
We’re proud to offer the highest quality barbecue and beers brewed onsite. From our family to yours, we put lots of love and careful attention in each item. We hope you enjoy our work as much as we enjoy bringing it to you.
Smokeridge BBQ
509-710-3426, 11027 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 11am till 8pm. We have all your favorite BBQ and Sides, Mixed Drinks, Margaritas, and Beer available for Carry Out and/or curbside. Call or text pre-order 7 days a week.
Barlows
509-924-1446, 1428 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake A favorite since opening in 2009, enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in their friendly atmosphere.
15416 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
Family owned and operated, roomy establishment. Go in, choose all your own fruit, vegetables, meats, noodles, and sauces. Watch them cook it up and then enjoy!
The Garden Coffee and Local Eats
509-315-8612, 213 S University, Spokane Valley
This is a must try in Spokane Valley! Foodie Specials: The Merry & Bright Butter Board, Egg Nog French Toast, Seasonal Avocado Toasts, & some fun seasonal coffee & drinks! See their facebook for holiday classes.
Crimson Hearth
509-598-8927, 11003 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
A Eurpoean inspired restaurant specializing in open hearth cooking. Many of the recipes are made-from-scratch and have been passed down generations.
Pint House Burgers and Brews
509-242-3650, 2914 E Mission, Spokane Valley
The second location for owners Josh Blair and business partner Tom Griffiths opened earlier this year. They have remodeled, so stop by to see what they have to offer!
Haymaker Kitchen & Tavern
509-242-3402, 6412 E Trent, Spokane Valley
The new place to hang out in the Valley! Bring your family, bring your friends, or just come in and hang out with us! Elevated pub food and one of the best patios in town.
Hallett’s Market and Café
509-926-4076, 14109 E Sprague Ave. Spokane Valley
A longtime Valley favorite for shopping and eating. We will still be OPEN for Take Out, Curbside service and Safe Shopping. Our store is load with Holiday Gifts, Home Décor and Northwest foods. Don’t forget to pick up some goodies for those on your holiday list while you are there!
Caruso’s
509-474-0254, 2314 N Argonne Road., Spokane Valley
Where fresh is a way of life. Bread and pizza dough made, from scratch, daily in our kitchen. Fresh, crisp vegetables. Highest quality meat and cheese that we can buy. Stop by and taste the difference fresh makes.
Ambrosia
509-919-4798, 9211 E Montgomery, Spokane Valley
Great food, fine wine, and special friends… what else is there? Explore our creative menu.
Rancho Viejo
509-927-8428, 14201 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
Enjoy a bit of Mexican? Try this family friendly locally owned establishment. Great for large groups. Friendly service with yummy choices. Don’t worry they will let you take home the left overs.
1.The Bike HUB
509-443-4005
12505 E Sprague Ave. #101, Spokane Valley
A friendly, full-service bicycle shop in the heart of Spokane Valley. Go in and let the friendly staff help you, or browse their catalog online. Either way you are sure to find cool gadgets or just the right bike.
2.Uncle’s Books and Games 509-891-7620
Located within the Spokane Valley Mall
Locally owned shop featuring board games, puzzles, books and more. Online and pick-up options available.
3.Adorkable Flowers and Gifts 509-922-6300
1326 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake
Purchase custom or prearranged flowers, candy bouquets, potted plants, collectibles, local artist work, and more.
4. Chocolate Apothecary 509-324-2424
11425 E Trent Ave., Spokane Valley
Gourmet chocolate, caramels, gelato, coffee, and tea. Bean to Bar Chocolate made in store.
5. The Bohemian 509-309-3236
16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley
A collection of unique refurbished and handcrafted items ranging from decor and furniture to clothing and skin care. Roam through and find some treasures.
6. Elz Tastes & Tea Market 509-315-4036
328 N Sullivan, Spokane Valley
Specialize in an array of of herbs, olive oils sourced from California, balsamic vinegars produced in Modena, Italy, and specialty loose leaf teas sure to please any conesuer.
7. Hallett’s Marketplace and Cafe 509-926-4076
14109 E Sprague Ave., #2, Spokane Valley
The marketplace section of this unique business offers a generous makeup of soup mixes, jams, candles, beverages, dips and the largest variety of huckleberry items, all made in the Pacific Northwest. Curb side pick-up and private shopping options available.
8. Irv’s Rock and Gifts 509-924-5464
11907 E Trent Ave., Spokane Valley
For over 50 years Irv, and now his daughter Liz, have been educating the community on the intricacies of jewelry, rocks, stones and gems. see specials and options on facebook.
9. Pawpular Companions 509-927-8890 21801 E Country Vista Dr. #111, Liberty Lake
The owners, Carl and Mara, and their staff are friendly and knowledgeable and take the time to help you make choices that are best for you and your furry family.
10. Silver Bow Fly Shop 509-924-9998 13210 E Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley
With a goal of “making fish nervous,” this business focuses on carrying gear that is tried and true for all those who wish to try the art of fly fishing.
509-309-3236
16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley
An eclectic collection of vintage and one of a kind finds that will last for years. They will be hosting a couple of events this season before they close this location.
509-924-5050
11006 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
This longtime valley business has a large selection of candles, plush, balloons and gift items to choose from along with their beautiful floral arrangements.
509-228-9509
12609 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
Original soft peanut brittle, salt water taffy, caramels, butter toffee and chocolate bark. Holiday themed gifts ready for quick pick up. Online shopping and pick-up available.
509-891-1999
14222 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
Whether you are coming in alone, with your sweetheart or with a group of friends, we have the spa package to fit your needs. Give us a call to schedule your perfect BrickHouse spa day today!
509-309-3236
16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley
Your new neighborhood jewelry store with unique custom pieces and some standard favorites.
16. My Favorite
208-773-4110
503 E Seltice Way, Post Falls
North Idaho’s premier vendor mall specializing in the interesting and unusual! See their facebook page for sales and special events.
17. Pine Street Market
509-263-2232
12107 E Sprague, Spokane Valley
Find unique gifts from over 100 vendors featuring antiques, vintage items, handmade, and one of a kind.
18.
509-413-1369
6206 E Trent, Spokane Valley
Start your Christmas shopping off right this year by shopping local. So may one of a kind treasures! We have vintage items, used items, new items, and hand made items! If you are looking for a personalized gift we have vendors who can help with that too! Fill your stockings and your hearts with gifts from our local vendors!
509-891-2662
Located near the food court in the Spokane Valley Mall
Here you can find delicacies ranging from fudge and chocolates to caramel apples and ice cream.
509-255-9205
23110 E Knox Ave, Liberty Lake
Liberty Lake Wine Cellars is a boutique winery offering big bold reds from the Red Mountain AVA. All wine production takes place on-site from crush, to fermentation, to barrel aging, to bottling and storage. Come find the perfect gift.
21. 509 MetalWorks facebook.com/509metalworks
We specialize in the following services: business signs, small fabrication jobs, customized metal art,and more. Contact us to get started on your order!
22. Simply Northwest
509-927-8206
11806 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
They offer the ability to choose, or have them create, unique gifts for any family member or friend this holiday season and all year round. Shop online at simplynorthwest.com. Curbside pick-up and delivery available.
23. Tracy Jewelers 509-893-2929 106 N Evergreen, Spokane Valley
Family owned since 1950, they stock a broad selection of diamond and colored gemstone jewelry along with offering jewelry repair, custom design, restoration and appraisal services.
24. Fleet Feet 509-309-2174 13910 E Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley
Fleet Feet Sports Spokane is dedicated to supporting Spokane’s running and fitness enthusiast communities by providing quality training programs, educational opportunities and the right footwear, apparel, and supplements to meet your needs.
25.Latah Creek Winery 509-309-3345
3201 N Argonne, Millwood
Since 1982 they have continued to blaze new trails in winemaking, producing new varieties each season along with their acclaimed lineup of established wines. Stop by and check out their wine of the month.
26. Movher 509-300-3930
6010 E Broadway Ave, Spokane Valley
Holiday Open House Friday, December 9th, 1 - 4 p.m. Featuring tours of our climate controlled wine storage, wine tasting area, vault storage along with information about moving, packing, and cleaning. Hot cocoa and cookies are served and participants have the opportunity to win a cozy Christmas package featuring a holiday blanket, candles, treats and an Amazon Firestick. 27. Cutco 509-701-2130
Tara has been a representative for Cutco for the past 14 years. Cutco is American made kitchen products that are guaranteed forever. Go to her website for more information, www.bladesbytara.com 28. Rebel Junk 360-689-5622 4102 S Bowdish, Spokane Valley Rebel Junk is a vintage flea market with vendors who incorporate Vintage, Shabby Chic, Cottage, Farmhouse, Industrial, Antiques, Pottery Barn Style, Online shopping available at rebeljunk.com. 10-5 Mon.Sat. Curbside pickup, shipping and delivery available.
29. Painting with a Twist 509-413-9892 11703 E Sprague, Suite B3, Spokane Valley No creative or artistic skill needed. Connect with friends and enjoy an evening of paint and fun! 30. Sarah Hamilton FACE 509-210-0228 1334 N Whitman Ln, Suite 210, Liberty Lake Specializes in anti-aging and skin rejuvenation for all ages. Offers and extensive selection of treatments and products. Call or visit to find the perfect gift.
31. Ramax
509-928-1222
31. Ramax
12411 E Empire Ave, Spokane Valley
509-928-1222
12411 E Empire Ave, Spokane Valley
Ramax offers many types of personalized gifts for the holidays. Shop in person, curbside pickup, or delivery.
32. Sculptured Gardens
Ramax offers many types of personalized gifts for the holidays. Shop in person, curbside pickup, or delivery.
509-290-6866
32. Sculptured Gardens
15614 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
509-290-6866
Locally owned and operated, Sculptured Gardens is conveniently located in the heart of Spokane Valley, Washington. We pride ourselves on offering superior customer service, high-quality gardening supplies, healthy and beautiful plants, and unique gift items.
15614 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
Locally owned and operated, Sculptured Gardens is conveniently located in the heart of Spokane Valley, Washington. We pride ourselves on offering superior customer service, high-quality gardening supplies, healthy and beautiful plants, and unique gift items.
33.
509-624-1969, 1412 W. Third Ave., Spokane
509-624-1969, 1412 W. Third Ave., Spokane
Chocolates made from tradition, these are sure to find a part to play in yours. For over 100 years this company has been providing us with Murphys, mints, caramels, nut clusters and other treats. For your convenience, place your order and have it delivered to your door.
Chocolates made from tradition, these are sure to find a part to play in yours. For over 100 years this company has been providing us with Murphys, mints, caramels, nut clusters and other treats. For your convenience, place your order and have it delivered to your door.
34. Side Hustle Syrup
34.
509-435-6773
509-435-6773
17905 E Appleway, Spokane Valley
17905 E Appleway, Spokane Valley
Side Hustle is a locally owned and operated company providing exceptional syrups made in the Pacific Northwest.
Side Hustle is a locally owned and operated company providing exceptional syrups made in the Pacific Northwest.
35. Papa Murphy Liberty Lake
35.
509-926-7272
509-926-7272
1318 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake
1318 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake
Now under new ownership. Stop by to tell them congratulations and give yourself a break from cooking with their take and bake pizza offerings.
Now under new ownership. Stop by to tell them congratulations and give yourself a break from cooking with their take and bake pizza offerings.
While out enjoying the magic of the season and spreading Christmas cheer, you may find yourself in need of a little pick me up. Here are some great local shops and drive-thrus to grab a cup of brew so you can finish your list.
1.The Garden
213 S University
M-SAT 7 am – 3 pm
2. Breauxdoo Bakery
14109 E Sprague
SUN – Th 8 am – 6 pm
F - Sat 8 am – 10 pm
3. Dagny’s
12925 E Trent Ave
M-F 5 AM -9 PM
SAT-SUN 6 AM – 8 PM
4. Fueled Coffee Co
12303 E Grace Ave
M-F 5 AM – 6 PM
SAT 6 AM – 6 PM
SUN 6 AM – 5 PM
5. Wake Up Call
3105 N Pines
EVERY DAY 5 AM – 7 PM
6. LaLozy
13917 E Trent
M-F 5 AM – 7PM
SAT 6 AM -6 PM
7. Shotzy’s
3413 N Sullivan
M-F 4:30 AM – 6:00 PM
SAT 6 AM- 6 PM
SUN 6:30 AM -5 PM
8. Amsterdam Coffee
10525 E Trent
EVERY DAY 8 AM – 6 PM
9. Pavilion Coffee
9921 E Trent Ave
M-F 5 AM – 6 PM
SAT 6 AM – 6 PM
SUN 7 AM – 5 PM
10.
13105 E Sprague
M-S 7 AM – 4 PM
SUN 8 AM – 3 PM
11. White Dog Coffee
1014 N Pines
M-F 5 am – 6 pm
SAT-SUN 6 AM – 6 PM
12. Blissful Blends
9611 E Trent
M-F 5 am – 6 pm
SAT 6 am – 6 pm
SUN 7 am – 5 pm
13. Natural High Coffee
13325 E Sprague
M-F 6 am – 5 pm
SAT 7 am – 5 pm
SUN 7 am – 4 pm
14. Jacob’s Java
624 N Sullivan
M-S 5 am – 6 pm
SUN 6 am – 6 pm
15. Para Dice Espresso
13112 E Sprague
M-F 5:30 am – 5:30 pm
SAT 6:30 – 5 pm
SUN 7 am -4 pm
16. Walnut Street Perk
15918 E Sprague
M-F 5:30 am – 6 pm
SAT 6 am – 6 pm
SUN 6:30 am – 6 pm
17. Wake Up Call
112 N Evergreen
EVERY Day 5 am – 7 pm
8015 E Trent Ave
M-F 5 am – 6 pm
SAT 6 am – 5 pm
SUN 6 am – 5 pm
19. Crush Coffee
16923 E Sprague
M-F 5:30 am – 5 pm
SAT 6 am – 5 pm
SUN 6 am – 4 pm
20. Shotzy’s
507 S Pines
M-F 5 am – 5 pm
SAT 7 am – 5 pm
SUN 7 am – 3 pm
21. Whistle Stop
16409 E Sprague
M-F 5 am – 7 pm
SAT-SUN 6 am – 7 pm
22. Wake Up Call
210 N Sullivan
M-SAT 4:30 am – 7:30 pm
SUN 5 am – 7 pm
23. Cafe Perfezione
10510 E Sprague
EVERY Day 5 am – 6 pm
24. Cozy Coffee and Bistro
514 N Barker
M-F 5:30 am – 7:00 pm
SAT 6:30 am – 5 pm
SUN 6:30 am – 4 pm
1604 S Sullivan
M-SAT 6 am – 6 pm
SUN 6:30 am – 5 pm 26. White Dog Coffee
7803 E Sprague
M-F 5 am - 6 pm SAT-SUN 6 am – 6 pm 27. International Coffee and Bakery 18209 E Appleway
M-TH 6 am – 3 pm F 6 am – 5 pm SAT 8 am – 5 pm SUN Closed 28. Galaxy Grind
12402 E Saltese
M-F 5:30 am – 4 pm
SAT-SUN 7 am – 4 pm 29. 4 Seasons Coffee Roasters
12410 E Indiana
M-F 7am – 4 pm SAT-SUN Closed
37. 20 1 23 26
39. 7 5 6 3 4 8 9 12 18 35 17 21 22
34 36
30. Wake Up Call
37 38
Coffee Stops
Blissful Whisk 1612 N Barker Rd T-F 6 am 2 pm SAT 8 am – 2 pm SUN-MON Closed 11 15 10 13 2 14 16 19
BocoPOP 21980 E Country Vista Dr M-F 7 am – 7 pm Sat 8 am – 8 pm Sun 8 am – 6 pm 24 25
Hello, Sugar 1950 N Harvest pkwy Every Day 7 am – 5 pm 33
36. Crazy Beagle 22026 E Country Vista Dr M-F 5:30 am – 6 pm SAT 6:30 am – 6 pm SUN 7 am – 6 pm 30
Up Call 22011 E Country Vista Dr. EVERY Day 5 am – 7 pm 29 32
38. 40 39
Wake 27
In Millwood
When you support small businesses, you support the whole community.
Enter to win a prize: Stop by Argonne Library to get your Shop Small passport to fill in as you shop.
www.scld.org/shop-small-2022
www.scld.org
Located at 2421 N Discovery Place. This 48,000 sq ft facility has amenities from Family Day Programs and Aquatics (lessons, open swim, and jacuzzi), climbing wall, and workout / sports facilities. You don’t have to be a member to utilize the facility. Day passes are $35 per family. Sometimes it just worth getting escaping the winter weather even for a day.
Liberty Lake Washington
Choose between No Ordinary Zip Line for $99 to $109 per per son where: 9 zip lines + 2 hikes + 1 Big Mama (3500′ zip) + 2 amazing guides + 2 UTV rides = The Best Time of Your Life. Or a tree top adventure for $44 to $55 per person with Canoe bridge + wine barrel bridge + high rise tight ropes + tree platforms + UTV rides = Fun in Trees Only Tarzan Has. The math is simple but the choice is hard and may get you thinking about needing to do both. Discounts for groups of 10 people or more.
Historic Flight Foundation
5829 E Rutter Ave in Felts Field.
EXPERIENCE HISTORY IN MOTION Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Admission ranges from $10 to $15 based upon age.
Historic Flight offers a collection of the most important aircraft produced between 1927 and 1957, all restored and airborne again. Our mission goes beyond serving as trustees of an era. We want you to experience the roar of piston engines, watch engineers restore vintage aircraft to flying condition, and view aeronautical displays from every angle.
Located at 3808 N Sullivan Rd #103. Utilizing the TrackMan technology, you can play on iconic courses with 120 courses available, keep playing through the winter weather, get a lesson, or even join a golf league. 30 minutes of Trackman Tee Time for $20 (a golfer can complete 18 holes in about 1 hour) or provide
under 5ft tall
Located at 15310 E. Marietta Ave Ste. 1 Open Jump is generally available from 9:30 AM - 7 PM 7 days a week, though we do shut down for Private Parties which can be after 5 on the weekdays, or any time on Sat. or Sun. Call us if planning on being here on the weekends or after 5 PM on the weekdays. Prices start at $9.75/hr Punch Cards available$80 + tax for 10 jump sessions
Located at 15312 E Sprague Ave open Tuesday through Saturday. Great for all ages, with prices starting at $19 for an hour and special events with dancing to the hottest music under the glow of the Neon Lights, every Friday and Saturday from 9pm to 11pm.
Available Dec 16th through 18th with tickets at $25 for students and $42 per adult. Big Band Christmas features holiday headliner music favorites from yesteryear, featuring the songs of: Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Rosemary Clooney, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin and MORE! This special, limited four performance run is sure to get the entire family in the holiday spirit! Also a good choice for those wanting a year round experience, Spokane Valley Summer Theatre produces three shows each year and season tickets are available for $68 per student, $114 for adults or $108 for seniors / military.
12114 E Sprague Ave. Open Wednesday through Saturday 11am to 4pm. Admission between $3 to $6 per person with kids under 7 being free. Come check out the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum which is the largest repository for the heritage of our area from Havana to west of Post Falls, Peone Prairie to Fairfield including Millwood and Liberty Lake. You can also find books about our area or if you want a year round gift, consider a membership for only $30 per family and includes free admission for a year. (Note: The museum is organizing an Ellis Island Smithsonian exhibit to be opened soon).
By Craig Howard Splash Contributing Editor
The leaves were turning orange and red in southeastern Pennsylvania when Chuck and Lu Stocker made a special trip from Spokane Valley to cheer on their son 29 Octobers ago.
The 1993 World Series pitting the Philadelphia Phillies against the Toronto Blue Jays included Kevin Stocker, a 1988 graduate of Central Valley High School, starting at shortstop for the National League champion Phillies. Stocker’s parents and older brother Steve made sure they were in the stands for both home and away games on baseball’s biggest stage.
On the subway in downtown Philadelphia en route to one World Series game, Lu was wearing a large button pin with Kevin’s picture on it.
“These Phillies’ fans, they know their players,” Chuck said. “They said, ‘Hey, that’s our shortstop, do you know him?’ Well, you can imagine their reaction when Lu told them he was her son.”
Stocker was called up from triple-A in early July that season and quickly secured a spot on the Phillies’ roster, batting .324 in 70 games while playing stellar defense.
“It was extremely exciting for Lu and I and Kevin’s siblings,” Chuck said. “He was given the opportunity to succeed and he did.”
While Philadelphia fell to Toronto in six games that October, Stocker maintains positive memories of his first and only appearance in the Fall Classic. The experience nearly three decades ago was revived this autumn as Stocker’s former team defied the odds and won their first National League pennant since 2009 to earn a World Series bid against the Houston Astros – again falling in six games.
Looking back, Stocker said the pressure and bright lights of the post-season didn’t rattle him,
despite being a rookie.
“I knew I had a job to do,” he said. “I had to focus in.”
At Central Valley, Stocker played on teams that were in the middle of the Greater Spokane League pack and never saw the playoffs. Later, at the University of Washington, he was part of Husky squads that were competitive in the Pac-10 but fell short of any post-season bid.
“That ’93 season was my first experience on that stage, without a doubt,” Stocker said. “At the time, it felt like a piece of cake. As a rookie, I didn’t know what losing was. I got into the World Series but never sniffed it again.”
Stocker was traded to Tampa Bay in 1997 and retired in 2000 as
an Anaheim Angel. He posted a .254 career batting average and a .970 fielding percentage, making only 116 errors in 3,756 chances.
Stocker joined a Philadelphia roster in 1993 that finished in the cellar of the National League East the season before. The team was led by veterans like Darren Daulton, Lenny Dykstra, Curt Schilling and John Kruk who took Stocker under their wing. After his first game – a 20-inning win over the Los Angeles Dodgers – Stocker remembers Daulton standing by his locker while reporters peppered him with questions.
“Darren told me afterward that it was OK to say, “No comment.’” Stocker said.
Mickey Morandini played second base on the ’93 team and recalls Stocker as a reliable teammate “who took a lot of pride in his defense.”
“Kevin was very calm and collected,” Morandini said. “I remember (Phillies assistant coach) Larry Bowa telling him, ‘I don’t care if you get one hit, just catch the ball.’ Well, Kevin gave us a lot more than that.”
Morandini recalls Stocker blending in well with an established team featuring no shortage of personalities.
“We were a veteran team that knew how to win,” he said. “Kevin was able to stay even-keeled and knew how to work through any issues he had.”
Like Morandini – who now works for the Phillies as a team ambassador – Stocker has maintained ties to his former club. He has served as a broadcaster for years and, this season, was a parttime color commentator on radio in addition to games he has called for Pac-12 Network and CBS College Sports.
Stocker, who lives in Liberty Lake with his wife Brooke, said the 2022 version of the Phillies showed postseason promise in Spring Training.
“Even early, I truly felt this team could make the playoffs, probably as a Wild Card,” he said. “The bullpen really carried them and they went into the playoffs at full strength.”
The Phillies’ latest roster includes a player that Stocker can relate to –rookie shortstop Bryson Stott who made his Major League debut at 24. Stocker was 23 when he premiered.
“They brought Stott into Spring Training so he got to know the guys,” Stocker said. “I was a nonroster invite in ’93 and shuffled back and forth between Minor League camp and where the Phillies were, only about a mile away. So when I got called up that July, the guys knew who I was, that I didn’t party or cuss. I was there to work and win games.”
Stocker demonstrated his winning mettle in Game 5 of the World Series with the Phillies facing elimination. His double down the right field line in the second inning knocked in a run and gave
The annual Winter Glow Spectacular in Liberty Lake will be even more spectacular than usual this year with 12 new displays, but what the displays are is being kept secret.
“It’s a surprise,” said board vice-president Mark Saba. “This year we definitely will be bigger and better than it’s been in the past.”
The annual holiday light show has been a tradition in the Spokane area for years. It started in 2014 in Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane. While renovations were underway there, the display moved around a bit to several locations, including Corbin Park. But four years ago, organizers approached Liberty Lake only a month before the show was
supposed to open to ask about having it in Orchard Park. It has been there ever since, though one year the opening ceremony was scrapped because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The display has been mostly unchanged in the last couple of years, however, because the pandemic forced the cancellation of the organization’s two annual fundraisers. “We were behind on extra monies to buy extra displays,” Saba said.
But this year the fundraisers happened as planned, raising enough money to buy the 12 new displays. The annual event, which is free to the public, is also supported by donations from community members and local businesses. The City of Liberty Lake is a prime sponsor and donates $10,000 each year. Much of the cost of the display, which typically is about $50,000 to $60,000, is for maintaining the individual display pieces and replacing light bulbs.
In previous years the show
has included a lighted train, Christmas trees, snowmen and more. The only way to get a sneak peek at the new displays is to be a part of the volunteer crew that helps assemble the light display. Volunteers have been hard at work repairing display pieces and getting them ready to set up.
This year’s opening ceremony is set for Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. at the park, which is located at 20298 E. Indiana Ave. The Ridgeline High School Band will perform and Liberty Lake Mayor Cris Kaminskas will speak. Santa Claus will be there, as will the Winter Glow mascot, Yeti.
Once the switch is flipped, the lights will remain on 24 hours a day through January 1, giving people plenty of time to walk through the park or drive by the display. Though the lights are always on, the holiday music only plays between 4 and 10 p.m. each night, making that the best time to visit in order to enjoy the full experience.
Volunteers check the park frequently to look for things that are broken or have been vandalized. There have been only a handful of vandalism incidents in the past, Saba said.
Though the displays won’t be as dramatic during the day, Saba said the lights are left on to avoid damage. “If you turn them off and turn them back on, it tends to short out,” he said.
As a bonus, second grade students from Liberty Creek Elementary will perform their Christmas program at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 8 and 15. The program is
expected to last 15 minutes. Saba said he is also working to line up local non-profits to sell hot cocoa and cookies on the weekends.
There will be other snack options as well. Orchard Park is across the street from a Hello Sugar donut shop, which is open until 5 p.m. each day, and Sweet Annie’s Creamery, which is open until 8 or 9 p.m. each day.
The goal of the annual light display is to provide a holiday experience that is free and open to everyone, Saba said. Similar displays in the region cost money and can be quite expensive, Saba said, but a free display has no such restriction. “You can drive or walk,” he said. “That’s what’s so unique about ours.”
Given the nature of the display, it is hard to track attendance numbers, though the opening ceremony has drawn thousands in previous years. People have been known to come from as close as North Idaho and as far away as the Tri-Cities. Last year’s display seemed to be well attended, Saba said.
“It’s all an estimate,” he said. “I’d have to say there was a very good crowd every night with an uptick on the weekends, of course.”
Many people like to get up close to the displays instead of simply driving by, he said. Walking also provides more time to enjoy the individual display pieces and provides a better look at the displays in the back of the park. “A lot of people walked it rather than drove through it,” he said.
In the season of giving, please consider an end-of-year tax-deductible donation to this privately-funded legacy project. A gift to the Inland Northwest Region for generations to come!
2024! Join us as we come together to build the Idaho Central Spokane Valley Performing Arts Center.
For more information, please visit www.icsvpac.com
Liberty Lake has a new customercentric store where you’ll be able to purchase items ranging from hardware and tools, to fishing poles and tackle.
Liberty Lake’s ACE, a General Store Outpost, soft-opened on October 18th and had a Grand Opening and ribbon cutting event on November 12th. The ribbon cutting event included Mayor Chris of Liberty Lake, the Barany family, and multiple vendors. The Chamber of Commerce was there to hold the ribbon and welcome the new business to the area.
When looking for a new location for a General Store Outpost, Liberty Lake stood out as a desirable location due to the gap between the stores in Spokane Valley and Post Falls, and for the up-and-coming community.
“One thing that ACE is really known for is fantastic customer service. We have the staff to help you, the knowledge to help you, and I think that’s harder at the big box stores.” Rob Wilson, General Manager for the General Store Company shares.
Since ACE is a General Store Outpost, Rob Wilson can bring in items that would be beneficial to the residents of Liberty Lake and the surrounding areas. With all the lakes in the area, and many boats that are in homeowner’s back yards, the Outpost has a wellstocked marine section where you can get most of the maintenance items you’d need to keep your boat in top working condition.
With waterways, there also comes fishing. Fishing poles will be some of the first things seen standing straight up in the middle of the store. The wide selection of fishing bait that the flagship General Store on Division is known for is available in the Liberty Lake store now as well. Jarred bait for trout or perch can be found in hues of all colors, while the live wiggly
worms are kept at the end of the aisle in the fridge.
In additional to outdoor physical activities, BBQing enthusiasts will find exciting new products to try. One such item is the Gozney pizza ovens. The Liberty Lake ACE General Store Outpost will be the second store in the greater Spokane area to carry and sell the exclusive cookery. On the day of the Grand Opening, the representative from Gozney was onsite to demonstrate the Roccbox, the smallest of the pizza ovens. The oven reaches temperatures of over 800° F and cooks a pizza in about 90 seconds. If smoking meat is more the name of the game, the Outpost will carry an ACE-exclusive Treager line that is larger than the big box stores.
“What I really like about it is the ability to influence the merchandise quickly in a way that I know will be beneficial to the customer and the employee,” Rob shares why he came to the General Store.
Other items that the Liberty Lake ACE General Store Outpost will stock that a typical ACE would not
include hunting gear, ammo, safes, self-defense accessories, disc golf, BIG GREEN EGG, Carhartt, toys and more!
Rob also works with local vendors to bring in products that would typically not be found in big box stores since they are locallyowned and operated on a smaller scale; you’ll find many of those items when you first walk in the door. The canned goods display are all made locally in Northern Idaho. The patches and stickers on the displays are made in the Pacific Northwest. While walking down the camping section, you’ll find products from GSI, a company based in the Spokane Valley.
Community plays a large part in the General Store on Division and will do so at the Liberty Lake Outpost as well. They have already partnered with local PTO and PTSA organizations for the Light Up Liberty Lake campaign to help support local families in need. They are selling battery operated illuminated star decorations in gold, red, and white, available in two different sizes with a portion
of the sales going to the school organizations. Another part of the campaign is “round-up”, where you can choose to round up your purchase to the nearest dollar and the additional funds go directly to non-profits in Liberty Lake as well.
Tom Barany is one of the grandsons of the founder and a current owner. “I feel incredibly proud and excited to do so,” when asked about carrying on his grandfather’s legacy. “My grandpa had a tremendous amount of success from first starting a surplus store downtown to then moving to a bigger building on Division and expanding that location. He worked very hard on that huge first location and so it’s cool to be able to branch out into something that is on the next step. I’m very proud. It’s great working with your dad and your brother. You never get lonely.”
The Liberty Lake ACE General Store Outpost is located at 1425 N. Liberty Lake Rd. They are open Monday- Saturday 8am-7pm and Sunday 9am-6pm.
The Splash is committed to serving Liberty Lake through excellent community journalism. We can’t do it at all without you, our readers, and we can’t do it for long without support from our advertisers. Please thank our business partners and look to them when offering your patronage.
Our sincere appreciation to the following businesses for their foundational partnerships withThe Splash and its partner publications:
Continued from page 31
Philadelphia a 2-0 lead that held up and sent the series back to Toronto.
The Phillies led the Blue Jays 6-5 going into the bottom of the ninth inning of Game 6 before Toronto outfielder Joe Carter hit one of baseball’s most iconic home runs, a three-run blast that ended the game and the World Series. Stocker remembers watching the ball sail over his head into the right field seats at the Sky Dome.
“He hit it so high, I didn’t think it would get out,” Stocker said. “I though (Phillies left fielder Pete) Incaviglia was going to catch it at the wall. I remember Carter running by me and celebrating. He made a good swing on the pitch.”
Since Stocker had not been on the roster for the entire season, he earned half the $95,000 share allotted to each player on the World Series runner-up. He would remain in Philadelphia for four more seasons before being traded. Along with 846 games at the Major League level, Stocker belongs to an exclusive group of only 14 percent of players to compete in a World Series.
“I look back now and realize how special it was,” Stocker said. “I was blessed to be there.”
EDITOR/PUBLISHER Ben Wick
ben@libertylakesplash.com
CO OWNER Danica Wick danica@libertylakesplash.com
CIRCULATION Larry Passmore circulation@libertylakesplash.com
Nina Culver, Craig Howard, Ashley Humbird, Ross Schneidmiller
The Liberty Lake Splash
P.O. Box 363 Liberty Lake, WA 99019 Phone: 242-7752 www.libertylakesplash.com
The Splash is published monthly by or before the first of each month. It is distributed free of charge to every business and home in the greater Liberty Lake area. Additional copies are located at drop-off locations in Liberty Lake and Otis Orchards.
Announcements, obituaries, letters to the editor and story ideas are encouraged. Submit them in writing to editor@libertylakesplash.com. Submissions should be received by the 15th of the month for best chance of publication in the following month’s Splash.
Liberty Lake residents receive a complimentary copy each month. Subscriptions for U.S. postal addresses outside of the 99019 ZIP code cost $12 for 12 issues. Send a check and subscription address to P.O. Box 363, Liberty Lake, WA 99019. Subscriptions must be received by the 15th of the month in order for the subscription to begin with the issue printed the end of that month.
Spokane
Spokane Symphony
Spokane
Spokane
Spokane
Spokane
Spokane
Tate Law
Tracy
Of note: This thank you message was produced by The Splash’s advertising team, which works its tail off on behalf of partner businesses, helping them share their messages through advertisements. This is an independent function from The Splash’s editorial team, which has its own evaluation process to determine the community news stories and features it pursues. For more information about a win-win partnership that expertly markets your business to thousands of readers (while making this home-grown community newspaper possible), email advertise@libertylakesplash.com. With story ideas, contact editor@libertylakesplash.com.
The Splash strives for accuracy in all content. Errors should be reported immediately to 242-7752 or by email to editor@libertylakesplash.com. Confirmed factual errors will be corrected on this page in the is sue following their discovery.
Display ad copy and camera-ready ads are due by 5 p.m. on the 15th of the month for the following month’s issue. Call 242-7752 for more information.
Inaccurate or deceptive advertising is never know ingly accepted. Complaints about advertisers should be made in writing to the Better Business Bureau and to advertise@libertylakesplash.com. The Splash is not responsible for the content of or claims made in ads. Copyright © 2022
All rights reserved. All contents of The Splash may not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
