May 2022 Splash

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Pavillion Park

The history of the Liberty Lake icon page 10

NANCY HILL SERVES LIBERTY LAKE PAGE 2

CONNECT WITH THE KENNEDY’S PAGE 22

LL LOCAL HOOP SHOOT NATIONAL CHAMP PAGE 31

2 • MAY 2022

The Splash

DOCKSIDE Next Chapter – Hill brings

expertise to LL commission

By Craig Howard Splash Contributing Editor

Nancy Hill’s initial question as a member of the Liberty Lake Parks and Arts Commission in January 2021 should have come as no surprise.

“My very first meeting, I asked, ‘Hey, is there a reason we don’t have a dog park?’” Hill recalls.

The former executive director of SCRAPS (Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Services) is a longtime advocate for dogs, cats and other animals – a background that has lent itself to the community’s ongoing campaign for an off-leash dog park.

major.

unincorporated Liberty Lake.

passing in 2019.

After a year in Fayetteville, Hill headed west to enroll at Mendocino College in Ukiah, California. Her major changed along with her surroundings as she transitioned to environmental science and plunged into studies of cultural and physical geography as well as conservation.

“When we came to Liberty Lake, it was only around the lake, there wasn’t much else here,” Hill recalls.

Hill is the proud mom of two grown children – Dylan and Allison.

Before Dylan became a standout basketball player at East Valley High School, Hill coached his AAU team, earning the distinction as the only female coach in the league.

“I’m just enamored with the outdoors,” Hill said.

After college, Hill set out on a diverse career trek that included work as a zookeeper, hydrologic technician and state parks employee.

When she interviewed for the animal control officer job at SCRAPS in 1986, she was selected from a field of 150 applicants.

In her first 10 years at the agency, Hill responded to calls in then-

Hill was named executive director of SCRAPS in 1995 and led the charge for a regional model that became a reality in 2014. The following year, the organization moved from a wellworn facility in the Spokane Business & Industrial Park to a new home on Trent Avenue.

Hill and her husband RC have been married since 2001. The couple moved to the Rocky Hill neighborhood in Liberty Lake from Spokane Valley in 2010 to be closer to Hill’s parents who relocated here from Oklahoma in 2004.

Hill’s dad passed in 2008 while her mom lived until the age of 96,

In late 2020, Hill read about the opening with the Parks and Arts Commission in the Splash and submitted her application.

“I wanted to find a way to engage in the community,” she said. “I think I bring a solid knowledge of how city government works to this group.”

Hill has supported causes like the Higher Ground Animal Sanctuary in Greenbluff and is a former board member for a nonprofit called Beyond Pink that promotes the benefits of thermography, an early detection method for breast cancer. Her retirement has meant more time for hiking, traveling, bird watching and cheering on the Gonzaga women’s and men’s basketball teams.

“I’m not sure why there isn’t a dedicated dog park,” Hill says.

Just to the east of Liberty Lake, an off-leash dog park has been in place for years at the site of a former I-90 rest stop. Hill has a connection to the popular venue named after Patricia Simonet, her former colleague at SCRAPS who passed in 2010 and was recognized as one of the leading researchers in the study of dog laughter.

Q: What have you enjoyed about being a resident of Liberty Lake over the last dozen years?

Ironically, Hill grew up without traditional pets of her own due to her mother’s serious allergy to dog and cat hair. She did have a parakeet and befriended animals in her neighborhood before purchasing her first dog – a rescue – after her freshman year at the University of Arkansas.

A native of Delaware, Hill grew up in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, a community of around 30,000 residents. She participated in basketball and track in high school and also took up photography, earning recognition as Outstanding Achiever of the Year for her work with a camera in Junior Achievement.

When she enrolled at Arkansas, she declared as a photo-journalism

Hill and RC have plunged into Liberty Lake culture as frequent visitors to the farmers market, citysponsored events and Winter Glow.

They enjoy taking their 8-year-old Lab mix Zoey to Rocky Hill Park, a short jaunt from their home.

Contributed photo Nancy Hill – pictured with her dog Zoey – has been a resident of Liberty Lake since 2010 and currently serves on the city’s Parks and Arts Commission. The Delaware native spent 32 years with SCRAPS (Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Services) including 22 years as executive director.

A: My husband, RC Lavasseur, and I love everything about our community. We have wonderful neighbors, plenty of greenspace and enjoy the small-town feel. The city has a great “vibe” and we feel safe here. It’s awesome having our own police department particularly when they are so approachable, open to citizen feedback and they care.

Our library is also a tremendous resource along with the convenience of our restaurants, grocery and other shopping. Every year we enjoy the local events from Barefoot in the Park in the summer to the Winter Glow Festival in the winter and everything else in-between.

We are regular visitors to the Farmer’s See HILL, Page 4

MAY 2022 • 3

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Q: What are some of your recollections of the Liberty Lake community going back to your early days at SCRAPS as an animal control officer?

A: Back in the day, most of the population in the Liberty Lake area was in the immediate vicinity of the lake with a few exceptions. The primary request for service was dogs running at large off leash and of course barking. Barking was a common complaint since the houses were clustered close together near the water. Usually talking to the dog owner was enough but sometimes a citation was issued. Occasionally, there would be a little excitement to liven up my day. One afternoon, a 9-1-1 call came in reporting a horse and rider in distress in Liberty Lake County Park. The rider had taken the horse onto a non-equestrian trail.

The trail was narrow as it traversed a hill and did not support the weight of the horse. The horse and rider slid off the trail about 30 feet down the hill and were stuck. The ground was damp and slippery making returning uphill to the trail impossible without help. After a bit of a hike, the park ranger and I arrived and worked on clearing a path for the horse to diagonally climb the hill back to the trail. Then we managed to lead the horse and rider out safely. They were shaken but fine – lesson learned!

Q: You advocated for the city of Liberty Lake to contract with SCRAPS when you were executive director and later made the pitch for the regional model that is in place now. How would you characterize animal control in Liberty Lake since incorporation in 2001?

A: The city of Liberty Lake has contracted with SCRAPS since incorporation with the exception of one year. The SCRAPS service greatly benefits the people and animals in the community by bringing the power of the group. An animal protection officer is available to respond 24/7 to emergency requests for service such as an aggressive dog, injured animal or extreme animal cruelty.

Additionally, officers respond to routine complaints,

The Splash

reunite lost pets with owners and investigate violations of animal law.

SCRAPS officers are professionally trained and hold a special deputy law enforcement commission.

Additionally, SCRAPS operates a full-service animal shelter that houses the stray, homeless, abused and abandoned animals in the community. The shelter also provides adoption and educational services.

SCRAPS became the regional provider for Spokane County in 2014 further strengthening the program.

SCRAPS opened a new regional animal shelter in the Spokane Valley at 6815 E. Trent to better serve the community. The regional program is funded primarily through pet licensing and municipal contracts.

SCRAPS also benefits from grants, donations and its many dedicated volunteers.

Q: What were some of the most rewarding aspects of leading SCRAPS during your tenure?

A: I never imaged that I would turn my lifelong love of animals and public service into a 32-year career at SCRAPS. It was an honor and a privilege to serve both the twolegged and four-legged members of our community. I was rewarded daily by the simple things such as a lost pet being reunited with an owner or a family adopting a new pet into their home. More significantly, was rescuing animals from extreme animal cruelty through investigation and enforcement. The SCRAPS team consisting of myself, the officers, support staff and volunteers executed search warrants and rescued many animals over the years. One of the more memorable seizures was of 60-plus neglected horses which required transport and opening an emergency shelter at the fairgrounds – definitely a logistical challenge. SCRAPS also had the first conviction in Washington State for felony dog fighting which involved many hours of investigation, the seizure of eight dogs and a lengthy trial. Sadly, there were many other animal cruelty cases, dangerous dog investigations and too many irresponsible pet owners. I worked with an incredible SCRAPS team and together we made a difference.

Q: What prompted your decision to apply for the Parks and Arts Commission?

A: Retirement gave me the gift of time which is intoxicating. I wanted to use some of that time to give

The Splash

NEWS

back to the community. My mother was a great role model growing up. She did a lot of volunteer work including 25-plus years with the American Red Cross. I started volunteering in middle school and have always enjoyed public service.

After retirement, I joined the board of Beyond Pink, a local breast cancer prevention organization, for three years. Towards the end of my term, I wanted to do something to help the community that I live in and meet new people. I saw an article in the Splash and decided to apply for the commission - I love parks and art, so it was a perfect fit!

Q: How do you feel the commission is enhancing the community?

A: The Parks and Arts Commission is a dedicated group of volunteers that meet monthly.

The commission’s vision is to enrich the quality of life in Liberty Lake through art, high quality programs and exceptional parks and facilities.

The art focus includes functional art, interactive art, statement pieces and the support of programing/events.

Additionally, the commission is dedicated to improving parks, trails and greenspace to further enhance our community. The commission has implemented the utility box wrap program which anyone driving through our city may enjoy.

Recently, a sculpture showcasing the “Liberty Lake Together” theme was installed in Rocky Hill Park. One of the more interactive pieces of art is the Storybook Walk in Rocky Hill.

Similar projects are planned for other parks in the city. There are all sorts of things in the works. Meetings are open to the public and we welcome input from the community!

Q: There is a dog park just to the east of Liberty Lake near the Washington/Idaho state line named after your late colleague Patricia Simonet. Do you think Liberty Lake will ever have its own dog park?

A: The Patricia Simonet Laughing Dog Park is located at Stateline and is a collaboration between SCRAPS and the Spokane County Parks department. It was the first off-leash dog park in the greater Spokane area and sits on 3.5 acres. Over the years, many municipalities have built their own dog parks and they are well received by the public. A dog park is a unique place for not only dogs to exercise but it also brings owners together to socialize. The

city of Liberty Lake has a leash law so it is illegal for a dog to run loose off its own property. It must be on a leash for the safety of the dog and the community. Dogs love to chase balls, socialize with other dogs and enjoy some “free” time – a dog park gives them all that and more. I presented a dog park proposal to City Council last year and it’s on the list – fingers crossed that it happens soon!

Q: Tell us about your efforts to bring a new basketball court to Pavilion Park.

A: I have enjoyed a lifelong love of basketball as a player, a coach and as a parent. Last year, I visited the new Hooptown USA Community Court at Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane. The court features a stunning full-court mural.

That inspired me to research a collaboration between the Hooptown USA division of Hoopfest and the City of Liberty Lake to create our own community court. I discussed the idea with the Parks and Arts Commission and they were on board. The commission identified the double courts at Pavilion Park for the project which was already scheduled for resurfacing in 2023. The scope of the project is to resurface the courts, add a full court mural, new Plexiglas backboards and breakaway rims creating a beautiful yet functional piece of public art while promoting sports and healthy living in our community. We are in the final phase of researching this project and hope to present to City Council for approval later this year.

Q: You live a short walk from Rocky Hill Park. How does such a nearby greenspace impact your quality of life?

A: RC and I love the green space and the walkability of Liberty Lake including Rocky Hill Park. We take our dog Zoey for a walk every day through the neighborhood and parks near our home. Everything about Liberty Lake is functional yet beautiful. Its well-planned parks, trails and walkable neighborhoods are truly amazing. We also enjoy the accessibility to the Liberty Lake County Park and the Saltese Uplands Conservation Area. In a recent trip to the Saltese wetlands, we saw over 200 migrating Trumpeter Swans.

My dad and I birdwatched together when I was a child and I still enjoy the hobby today. We live in an incredible community and the opportunity to enjoy nature is everywhere!

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6 • MAY 2022

The Splash

Introducing the

Safety Awareness Channel

Police Report - March 2022 Total incidents generated by Officers and emergency calls for service last month 771 Traffic Collisions/Hit & Runs / Injury Collisions 17 Citations (Traffic/Criminal/NonCriminal) 26 DUI (Driving Under Influence) 1 Thefts / Vehicle Prowls / Vehicle Theft / Burglaries 10 Malicious Mischief 3 Argument / Assault DV / Simple Assault / Assault w/a Weapon 16 Parking Violations 1 Suspicious Vehicles 31 *The above numbers are as of 4/1/22

Domestic Violence/Rape, 3/3/22; Officers responded to a Domestic Violence in the 2300 block of North Aladdin Rd. It was reported that an adult female was attacked by her boyfriend at her residence, and she ran to her parent’s home a few blocks away wrapped in only a sheet. Officers were told the male was still at the residence and that he may be suicidal and have possession of a pistol. After interviewing the female, officers surrounded the home and called out the male from the residence. Investigation revealed the male sexually assaulted the female, choked her, held her captive, and stole a firearm from the location. A warrant was secured for the location and his person to secure evidence, and he was arrested. The male was placed in custody for Rape 1st, Assault 2nd with Sexual Motivation, Theft of a Firearm, Unlawful Imprisonment and

Least Most

circles contain the number of incidents in a given area.

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Computer Trespass.

Burglary/DV, 3/7/22; Officers responded to the 900 block of North Malvern Road to a Burglary/DV situation. Officers were told a female caller reported her ex-boyfriend was outside the residence trying to gain access to the home. Before they could arrive, the male shot out a basement window with a pistol and was holding an adult female and juvenile male inside (one adult male managed to escape). Officers attempted to gain entry and call out the male, but he refused to comply with commands.

County SWAT and various additional units were called there to assist. The adult male was determined to be holding the adult female hostage with a pistol and juvenile male was locked up in the bathroom. Officers secured the perimeter of the home and continued to give commands for the male to come outside and turn

himself in. Officers continued to have verbal contact with both the male and the adult female when she managed to escape through the second floor, and she was recovered by officers outside the home. The juvenile male was still in the home and the female didn’t know where the adult male had gone to when she escaped. Within about 10 minutes of her escape the adult male came out of the home with the weapon and refused to drop it on command.

The male threatened the officers by pointing his weapon at them and was shot once by an assisting Deputy. The male was transported to the Sacred Heart Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. The male is still currently being treated at this time and will be charged for the following violations upon his release: Burglary 1st from a Residence, Assault 1st, Kidnapping 1st, Indecent Liberties with Forcible See LLPD REPORT, Page 30

MAY 2022 • 7

The Splash

The Lookout The Community Corner On her “Imaginations to Creations”

By Tom Sahlberg

Liberty Lake City Council When I think of community, the word “unity” stands out. One of the most inspiring examples of this is a painting in City Hall created

by Sindhu Surapaneni, entitled “Unity in Diversity” for which she became the youngest nominee for the Spokane Arts Inclusion Award for “exemplifying inclusion in her community…by creating bridges across divided groups…”

Facebook page, she exemplifies “What the mind can conceive, we can achieve” with so many examples that you must visit the page – where you too may be inspired to create unity in your own circles. In this time of such toxic divisiveness, just imagine yourself building bridges and helping to take down walls at all levels. If we can imagine it, we CAN achieve it – together!

Another positive example of this

is how Liberty Lake’s citizens, city staff and officials united during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While other areas were torn apart by economic failures, finger pointing and a lack of unified response, OUR community shined! City government tightened the belt on spending, re-prioritized important projects and reached out to families and businesses to help. As a direct result, our community is in a better place financially than we were prior to the pandemic.

An indirect result can be seen even on social media sites where, for the most

Community Engagement Commission begins With the official start of Liberty Lake’s new Community Engagement Commission, city leaders are hoping to build new ways that area residents can contributed their voice to the city government’s operations and projects.

The recently created group of citizen volunteers has been formed to serve in an advisory role to the Liberty Lake City Council as part of an effort to expand the involvement residents’ perspectives on the city’s future initiatives, construction projects and other service operations. The commission members will also make use of their own personal networks to broaden the input of the public on the current and future needs of the city.

Most of the members of the new commission assembled for the first time at City Hall on March 30.

At the group’s second gathering on April 20, the six current members voted to regularly hold subsequent meetings on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Liberty Lake City Hall’s council room.

The Community Engagement Commission was formed under a city ordinance approved by the City Council this past September.

The commission is designed to

Contributed photo Liberty Lake Community Engagement Commission members from left to right: Summer Darrow, Mark Saba, Terri Peters, Heidi Christensen, Aaron Asmus, Robin Bekkedahl, and Liberty Lake communications specialist David Goehner at the group’s second meeting on April 20, 2022.

have up to two members each from four geographic areas of the city, plus one at-large member.

Applicants for the new commission were approved through a majority vote of the City Council, and the initial members will serve staggered terms of either two or three years.

The charter members of the new Liberty Lake Community Engagement Commission are Robin Bekkedahl, Aaron Asmus, Heidi Christensen, Summer Darrow, Mark Saba, and Terri Peters.

Applications are still being accepted for the three remaining vacant positions.

Information on how to join the new group can be found on the Community Engagement Commission’s section of the www.libertylakewa.gov website.

City invites public to open house on Trailhead Clubhouse

Everyone who is interested in the new look of the Trailhead Golf Course is invited to play through on their ideas during an open house event being hosted at Liberty Lake City Hall on Wednesday, May 25. The evening session will also offer the public an update on the status and timeline about the upgrades that will begin at the golf property this summer.

The May 25 public event will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in the City Hall’s Council Chambers at 22710 E. Country Vista Drive, next to the golf course. A live Zoom option will also be offered, with log-in details to be posted near the date of the event on the city’s website at www.libertylakewa.gov/ AgendaCenter/City-Council-2/.

May 2022 part there are always individuals, groups and businesses who step up to help others with unprecedented and generous altruism. This does not end at our city limits, as neighbors have reached out even across the globe to war-torn Ukraine with needed food, clothing and goods.

As we ALL let our lights shine, imagine the impact we can achieve as we continue to work towards making “Liberty Lake Together” a reality that builds bridges for an even better community and a truly United States.

The two-hour session will offer the public an opportunity to give their suggestions about the aesthetics and amenities of the new clubhouse and to ask questions to the project’s designers. Display stations around the room will provide information on the upcoming renovation plans for the site.

The new structure will be built using the foundation of the existing clubhouse, which was originally constructed in the 1970s. The new clubhouse will include a golf shop, cart storage, a restaurant, flex space and a deck serving both the restaurant and the flex space.

Final design and approval of a construction contract for the new Trailhead clubhouse is anticipated to be on the agenda of the City Council meeting scheduled for July 19.

Demolition of the existing structure is slated to start on August 31.

The golf course will remain open throughout the construction work, with a temporary trailer serving as the golf shop and a mobile food truck providing food and beverage service.

The new facility would be completed late next spring.

Prior to the May 25 public event focusing on the clubhouse design, the Liberty Lake City Council is expected to finalize plans for renovating the site’s parking lot. Construction on the parking area is targeted to begin on June 1.

Further updates about the May 25 forum on the Trailhead clubhouse design will be posted on the city of Liberty Lake’s website at www. libertylakewa.gov/687/TrailheadCapital-Project and on the city of Liberty Lake’s Facebook page.

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

8 • MAY 2022

The Splash

NEWS

News and Notes – May 2022

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

• Mark Saba and Aaron Asmus were confirmed as new members of the Community Engagement Commission at the March 29 council meeting.

• Bob Wiese of Liberty Lake Centennial Rotary spoke to council about a donation from the club for flex space at the Trailhead golf facility.

• In describing the goal of the revamped parking lot at the Trailhead facility, Keith Dixon of Architects West told council on April 19 that it should be “something that will accentuate and create a sense of arrival to the new building.” In addition to bringing the site into compliance with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), capacity will increase around 30 percent to 115 parking spots and two electric vehicle charging stations will be added. Power lines at the lot will go underground while other utilities like water will see improved efficiencies. “You may think it’s just a parking lot, but it’s more than that,” Dixon said.

• Scott McGlocklin of Bouten Construction told council in the same Trailhead workshop that design drawings for the project were being submitted for permitting that week. McGlocklin said the goal is to keep the course

and Palenque restaurant open until August. He added that cost and final drawings will be presented for council review on May 17 with construction on the parking lot starting June 1. Final drawings and budget for the clubhouse/restaurant will appear before council July 19 with construction beginning Sept. 1.

A public open house will be held on May 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at City Hall that will also include a Zoom option.

• In other Trailhead news, the City Council will consider a recommendation on May 17 for the Eat Good Group to occupy the restaurant space at the remodeled facility. The company is known for establishments like The Gilded Unicorn and would feature an “eclectic menu” at the Liberty Lake site with a flexible menu. Planning and Engineering Manager Lisa Key said Adam Hegsted’s group presented the “best business case for the city” related to property lease rates and sharing a percentage of profits with the city. “They presented a really strong proposal,” Key said.

• Saba announced that Winter Glow will hold its first fundraiser since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March 2020. The event will take place on June 11 at the Spokane County Golf Course. Cost is $125 per golfer.

Those interested in participating can call Saba at 509-475-9261. Saba said there are plans to have 10 new fixtures at Winter Glow this year.

“It’s a year-round adventure now,” he said.

• Rick Scott, executive director of SCOPE (Sheriff’s Community Oriented Policing Effort) gave a presentation at the April 19 council meeting. Scott began volunteering

for the organization 25 years ago and has led SCOPE for the past 15 years. Around 240 volunteers currently donate their time to the cause that includes programs like Citizens on Patrol, Neighborhood Watch, Property Checks, Traffic Control, Incident Response Team and more. “We really want people to report something they see that is off in their neighborhood,” Scott said. “We’re just trying to make things safer.” The effort has averaged close to 80,000 hours of volunteer service annually, equating to roughly $2 million in savings for taxpayers. “Nobody knows what’s out of place in their neighborhood except the people who live there,” noted Council Member Wendy Van Orman who was part of establishing the Liberty Lake SCOPE chapter over 20 years ago. Scott said SCOPE is “always looking for volunteers.”

• A total of 192 families took part in the 26th annual Easter Egg Hunt at Pavillion Park on April 16.

• Mayor Cris Kaminskas and Council Member Annie Kurtz met with a representative of Aging and Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington last month to discuss resources and support for senior residents of the city.

• Kaminskas recommended that Council Member Tom Sahlberg be an alternate representative for the Spokane Regional Transportation Council.

• Council Member Wendy Van Orman was confirmed as a representative to the Lodging Tax Advisory Board.

• Kramer at Country Vista will be closed beginning May 9 for construction that will continue

through the end of the summer.

A detour route will be clearly marked.

• Robert Kirtland has been hired as the city’s new facilities crew lead.

• David Goehner has been hired as the city’s new communications specialist and will also serve as the city’s liaison to the Community Engagement Commission.

• The 20th rendition of the Liberty Lake Farmers Market will open at Town Square Park, 1421 N. Meadowwood Lane, on May 14 at 9 a.m.

• The city will join fellow jurisdictions like Spokane Valley, Millwood and others in a lawsuit to oppose a utility tax on dischargers being proposed by the city of Spokane. Locally, it would impact customers of the Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District.

• Council unanimously approved the appointment of Shawna Deane and Kim Girard to the Liberty Lake Library Board of Trustees on April 19.

• Council approved the selection of Foster Garvey PC, a Seattle-based law firm, as the bond council for funding related to the Trailhead improvement project.

• Council approved the annual contract with Granicus on March 29 for a total not to exceed $13,300. The company specializes in “platforms that make digital government possible” and works with cities, counties and special districts across the U.S.

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The Splash

Council hears revived appeal from library

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

A lot has changed since the Liberty Lake Municipal Library received the completed version of their Community Needs Assessment and Library Master Plan in late 2019.

Seats have shuffled at City Hall for starters with four new council members and a new mayor taking office. A city administrator has retired while Jocelyn Redel was replaced by Jandy Humble as library director in March of 2021. Just over two years ago, the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench into the library’s normal agenda, prompting major pivots in programming, the way materials were distributed and other services.

The library’s Board of Trustees has also undergone a transformation in that time span. At the April 19 City Council meeting, two new Trustees – Shawna Deane and Kim Girard – were ushered in while two more – Tim Olsen and Brad Hamblet – were on hand along with Humble to provide a refresher course to council on the game plan outlined by the library over two years ago.

NEWS

including the addition of shelving in the children’s section, creating a small group/individual study room and purchasing flexible tables and chairs.

The library has also shifted public computers to laptops, removed an over-sized computer table and installed new automatic doors and touchless devices.

Hamblet said the library sets a standard for lifelong learning and is seen as a community gathering space, “I would hope we could make a lot more people aware of all the community provides,” Hamblet said.

Recommendations on increased space were made in relation to communities of similar size.

Hamblet’s presentation also included footage of library staff struggling to make the existing square footage work when it came to storage.

“I think it’s important to see the places most people don’t see,” Hamblet said. “Our staff is fantastic

with the space they have and what they have to utilize. I would hope we could provide improved conditions for them in the future.”

Options on the table include remodeling the existing facility, co-locating with another facility or building a new library.

Humble said a state matching grant is available for up to $2 million to address remodeling efforts. The funding would include the caveat of remaining in the existing facility for a minimum of 10 years.

“I do think what you have said about the library and the importance of it to our community are things we need to be talking about,” said Council Member Annie Kurtz.

Council Member Tom Sahlberg, who was part of the discussions that fed into the assessment, noted that around 500 surveys were returned in 2019.

“This is not just a small sampling, this is a large part of our community,” Sahlberg said.

MAY 2022 • 9

The city has set aside $100,000 in the capital facilities plan for the library this year. There has been talk of applying some of the funds toward an architect who would provide recommendations on space efficiencies and additions.

“The library did as much as they could afford without coming to council with a huge ask,” said Mayor Cris Kaminskas after the meeting, addressing the strides made by the library since the COVID-19 pandemic. “I think now it’s about baby steps first.”

Olsen said the push for improvements outlined in the assessment and master plan “definitely lost momentum” due to the pandemic, turnover in trustees and changes at City Hall. He expressed optimism over the latest presentation to council and said those around the dais “are in tune with the needs of the library.”

“This was a great opportunity to tell people what we’ve done, what we’re doing and what the needs are moving forward,” Olsen said.

“I think you all agree that the library is a great asset to our community,” Hamblet told those around the dais.

Lack of space continues to be an issue at the site on Mission Avenue that spans just over 9,000 square feet. The space needs assessment concluded that a library of between 16,500 and 19,500 square feet would be more adequate for storage and programming needs in a rapidly growing community like Liberty Lake.

“The community loves our library,” Hamblet said. “The majority of our citizens are interested in increased usable space.”

Hamblet said there are many examples throughout the country of libraries expanding to provide more community gathering space.

In January 2021, council was updated on steps the library had taken since completion of the assessment and master plan,

File photo Representatives from the Liberty Lake Municipal Library appeared before City Council on April 19 to refresh the governing board on an assessment on library needs completed in late 2019. Issues surrounding lack of space at the site on Mission Avenue continue to present challenges in areas like programming and storage.

10 • MAY 2022

COVER STORY

The Splash

Photo by Nina Culver This structure, found in Pavillion Park in Liberty Lake, was designed to highlight the history of Liberty Lake by closely recreating the look of the original Liberty Lake dance hall.

History of Pavillion Park

By Nina Culver

Splash contributor

Liberty Lake residents know Pavillion Park as a place to skate, play, watch movies, see the fireworks and listen to music. But more recent residents may not know the namesake of the park, the Dance Pavillion that stretched out over the waters of Liberty Lake for decades before it finally burned in a fire and was disassembled.

In the early 1900’s, the Liberty Lake area was shifting into a resort area and soon began to boom, becoming known as “Spokane’s Inland Seashore.” “Liberty Lake had six active resorts,” said historian Ross Schneidmiller.

The Spokane Inland Empire Railway put in a two-mile spur line from the Liberty Lake junction (located where True Legends now sits) to the lake. The railroad built Liberty Lake Park in 1908 and 1909 and in 1908 dedicated the Dance Pavillion, which was built on a

pier that extended 200 feet into the water, Schneidmiller said. “It was the crown jewel of Liberty Lake Park,” he said. “The uniqueness of Liberty Lake Park is that it was really a regional destination. They also had the big bathing pier that went out 200 feet.”

Liberty Lake Park was a destination for many company picnics and events and each day would end with a dance. “They claimed that 622 couples would dance at one on the dance floor,” he said.

Since the Dance Pavillion was built by the railroad, a railroad contractor was used to build it.

Those contractors typically had large crews so work could be done quickly. “It’s crazy to think that thing was built in less than two months,” Schneidmiller said.

The 46 by 86 foot dance floor was made of bird's eye maple. Over time, the 14-foot veranda that surrounded the dance floor was enclosed and the space was added to the dance floor so that even more couples could dance the night away. Much of the activity at the lake revolved around

dancing, both at the Dance Pavillion and at other venues.

“Dancing, at that time, was one of the most popular recreational activities,” Schneidmiller said. “The last train would leave for Spokane after the dance ended.”

The Dance Pavillion stood strong until it burned in a fire in 1962. It was then disassembled and removed.

Decades later, the Schneidmiller family was preparing to donate land to Spokane County so that a park could be built in Liberty Lake. Schneidmiller said he was part of one of those meetings and told the then-parks director that he wanted a portion of the park used to preserve Liberty Lake history. The parks director suggested creating the entire park around a historical theme.

“That’s really how that began,” he said.

The new park, called Pavillion Park in honor of the Dance Pavillion, was built in phases in the 1990’s with the help of a state grant, money raised by the Friends of Pavillion Park and assistance from Greenstone Corporation.

The picnic shelter was built in the first phase, Schneidmiller said, and the roof of the picnic shelter was built to mimic the roofline of the Dance Pavillion. “We tried to replicate it as close as possible,” Schneidmiller said.

Other buildings next to the picnic shelter were built to resemble the Dance Pavillion’s ticket booth and concession stand.

Architect Gary Johnson, who worked for Architects West in Coeur d’Alene for decades, designed the park structures. “That was a few years back,” he said. “Ross had this vision.”

He said he worked from historical photos of the Dance Pavillion that Schneidmiller provided. “The roof replicates most of that,” he said.

He also wanted to replicate the ramp that extended from the lake shore to the Dance Pavillion.

It is swapped, however, since the sidewalk goes off to the east and the ramp to the Dance Pavillion went to the west.

There were a few issues with the small building intended to be a replica of the ticket booth. The

The Splash building was intended to house the electrical panel necessary to handle all the lighting, sound equipment and other electronics in the park.

It was needed for the concerts and movie nights that the park would host.

“It ended up not being big enough for the panel,” Johnson said.

“We ended up having to change it, so it’s not proportional.”

Even the flags were meant as an homage to the Dance Pavillion.

“The flags on the pavillion, those are copied from the original as well,” he said.

Johnson didn’t grow up in the area and knew nothing of the Dance Pavillion when he started the project.

But his wife, whose maiden name was Karen Hughes, had grown up here and remembered it well. “She grew up on the lake,” he said. “She remembered the Pavillion before it burned down. I had to pick her brain about some of the activities that went on out there.”

Johnson, who has lived in Liberty Lake since 1977, said he enjoyed working on the project. At that time, his firm mostly designed K-12 schools. “It was a little different than what we normally did,” he said. “It was a fun project and it was kind of a challenging project.”

Johnson retired from his 31year career in 2017 and remains in Liberty Lake. He said he loves

File photo The mural, installed in May of 2020.

COVER STORY

MAY 2022 • 11

the community and how everyone comes together. “I fell in love with Liberty Lake after we got married,” he said.

Schneidmiller said he appreciates all the work Johnson did on the project. “I certainly appreciate Gary Johnson’s help in that,” he said. “He really made that happen.”

Several improvements and upgrades are scheduled for Pavillion Park over the next few years. The picnic shelter roof will be replaced as well as the wind screens. There will also be lighting and electrical upgrades. Some work will be done this year, but the bulk of the improvements are scheduled for 2024.

Additions to highlight the history of Liberty Lake have also been put in the park over the years.

In 2020, local artists Rolf and Peter Goetzinger put up a mural in the park that depicts a carousel, much like the 1913 Herschell-Spillman carousel that was in Liberty Lake Park between 1923 to the mid1950s. Many of the people riding the carousel animals are musicians playing their instruments. All the musicians depicted actually played in Liberty Lake over the decades, including guitarist Robert Cray and former Spokane Symphony director Eckart Preu.

The mural also includes Stephen Liberty, a French settler who

File photo The railroad company created Liberty Lake Park in 1909 on the northwest side of the lake, which became famous for its wooden dance pavilion, pictured above. In 1962 the structure was dismantled after being destroyed by fire.

In 1995 this original Liberty Lake structure design was reinvented as the structure we now enjoy in Pavillion Park.

homesteaded the west side of the lake. Next to him is Andrew Seltice, chief of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe during that era, and Tecomtee, a member of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe who was known for singing Native American songs over the lake.

The 40-foot mural was installed after the Liberty Lake Parks and Arts Commission put out a call to artists who could create a mural that

touched on the history of the area.

As the work to improve and enhance Pavillion Park continues, the park will continue to provide a place to play while also serving as a reminder of Liberty Lake’s history.

Schneidmiller said that in his experience, people like to know the history of their area. “People really embrace it,” he said. “You just have to get the ball rolling.”

COMMUNITY

12 • MAY 2022

COMMUNITY EVENTS May 1 | Bloomsday – Bloomsday 2022 will return to the streets of Spokane as an in-person race!

Additionally, a virtual race option is available for participants. Register online www.bloomsdayrun.org May 6-7 | Huge Books & More Sale – 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Opportunity Presbyterian Church, 202 N Pines Road-Spokane Valley. Shop for Spring, gift-giving or your own reading enjoyment (Games, puzzles, CDs, DVDs etc.).

May 11 | 1st Annual State of Downtown – 3:30 p.m., Pavilion at Riverfront. This fast-paced event will feature the 2022 presentation of the Legacy and Impact Awards followed by a thought-provoking presentation from Michael J. Berne, one of North America’s leading experts and futurists on urban and Downtown/Main Street districts. For more info and tickets: downtownspokane.org/event/ state-of-downtown/ Tickets are $40-$45.

May 14 | 10th Family Fun Fair & 2nd ANHPI Heritage Day – 1p.m.

- 8:00p.m., Riverfront Park. Swag bags and free lunch for the first 500 attendees. For updates check NWFamilyFunFair Facebook page.

May 14 | Spokane Garden Expo – 9 a.m. – 5:00p.m. Spokane Community College, 1810 N Greene St. Free admission and parking.

Exotic specialty plants for sale, lecture series, door prizes, children’s activities, unique gifts! Website: www.tieg.org/garden-expo-attend May 14-15 | Skyfest Airshow – Fairchild AFB, WA, gates open at 9 a.m., 12 p.m. performances begin. Skyfest 2022 promises to be a fun-filled weekend packed with heart-pounding air performances and family-friendly activities.

You don’t want to miss the USAF Thunderbirds and so much more.

Admission is free! Premium box

seats and flight line club seating available for purchase. Buy tickets online, www.fairchildskyfest.com

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.

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.

The Splash

MUSIC &

HEALTH &

THE ARTS

RECREATION

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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 finding peace, strength and hope.

For more, call 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;

The Splash

COMMUNITY

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.

Liberty Lake Couples Golf League | Meets at Liberty Lake Golf Course, 10 a.m. Thursdays through September. Open to all levels of golfers, new members are welcome all season. Cost to join is $15 per couple plus green fees. For more email dianerudnick@gmail.com Military Sobriety Support Group | 10 to 11:30 a.m., Spokane Vet Center, 13109 E. Mirabeau Parkway, Spokane Valley. For more, call Steve at 893-4746.

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 5927875.

CIVIC &

BUSINESS May 5 | Business Showcase – 2:00 – 6:00 p.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel & Convention Center, 1100 N Sullivan, Spokane Valley. The Business Showcase is the Greater Spokane Valley’s largest B2B trade show, featuring exhibitors, representing nearly every aspect of business -marketing, financial services, business products and services, healthcare, employee benefits, higher education, transportation/storage, janitorial and more! Admission is Free. For more info/registration, visit spokanevalleychamber.org.

MAY 2022 • 13

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 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 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.

Liberty Lake Merchants Association | 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Liberty Lake Portal, 23403 E. Mission Ave., Suite 120. For more, call 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.

• Estate Planning • Probate and Trust Administration • Long-Term Care Planning • Free Initial Consultation

(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.

14 • MAY 2022

The Splash

SVFD Report – March 2022 Splash news sources

Spokane Valley Fire Department crews responded to a total of 135 emergency calls in the greater Liberty Lake area from March 15 – April 15, 2022 • Emergency Medical Services 115 • Building Alarms 6 • Motor Vehicle Accidents 5 • Fires 4 • Dispatched and cancelled en route 3 • Hazardous Materials 1 • Service Calls 1 Of note: • Total Calls saw an increase from 128 last month to 135 this month.

• Emergency Medical Services increased from 101 calls last month to 135 calls this month.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions decreased from 8 last month to 5 this month.

Martina was born in Phoenix Arizona to Martin and Ernestine Stemple. She was raised in Spokane and graduated from Lewis and Clark High School. In 69' Martina met Kenneth Vannieuwenhoven in San Diego and they were married in 1972 on the Island of Guam.

After Ken retired from the Navy they moved from San Diego to Liberty Lake where they made their home for 35 years. Martina was diagnosed with MS in 1990 which impacted the rest of her life.

Martina left her work as a Lab Technician and her Husband Ken took care of her. During retirement, Martina loved to read, and expressed herself through art with painting and ceramics. Martina is survived by her husband Ken, sons Shawn, Kevin and five grand children Mia, Andrew, Kyle, London, and Logan. Martina will be greatly missed.

We all miss and Love you.

• Fires decreased from 5 last month to 4 this month.

Of Significance: • We continue to emphasize Driving Safely and according to road conditions and temperatures.

• Be careful with portable heaters.

Keep flammable items away from them and turn them off when not in the room.

• If you have chicken coops, please make sure to use a fire safe heating pad inside the coop.

Heating lamps can catch straw and other flammable items inside the coop on fire.

Media Releases: March 20 – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) - Residents in a single wide trailer home in the 6600 block of East 8th Avenue in Spokane Valley called 911 reporting they had awoken to a snapping and popping sound in the walls. The nearest Spokane Valley Fire unit Valley Engine 6 was presently on another severe medical call and therefore through automatic aid agreements the first arriving Engine was Spokane Fire Department Engine 14.

The initial dispatch information for Engine 14 was an electrical issue with no active smoke or fire reported and single engine response

was requested for investigation of the electrical issue. Spokane Engine reported on arrival that they could see active smoke, sparks and arcing coming from the reported structure and increased the fire response to an active fire adding a full multi engine response from Spokane Valley Fire Department.

Fire crews reported all occupants had exited structure and there were no injuries. Red Cross was called to aid the three occupants and their dog in housing placement as their home was deemed uninhabitable following the fire. Fire crews entered structure with a charge hose line and reported home was full of smoke but no active fire initially. Fire was in back hallway of structure where the electrical power enters from supply lines at the electrical panel.

Crew quickly extinguished fire and shut off power to structure while other crews broke open windows for ventilation to allow smoke to exit structure to increase visibility and aid in locating any other potentially hidden fire or structural damage.

8th Avenue was closed at the scene for a couple hours as the nearest fire hydrant was on the opposite side of the street as the address and 5-inch water supply line had to be stretched across the street. A total of 6 Engines, 2 ladders and multiple command staff from Spokane Valley Fire Department, Spokane County Fire District 8, and Spokane Fire Department combined under automatic aid to respond and control the fire.

The Spokane Valley Fire Department would like to remind residents that electrical type fires can be unpredictable so calling early is the best option March 21 – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to a report by a passerby of smoke coming from a known vacant structure at 4700 block of N. Adams.

Spokane Valley Fire responded with a full fire response and first arriving apparatus Valley Engine 5 reported light smoke showing from all roof vents on the structure with no visible fire from outside structure. The second arriving crew was directed to pull a hose line from Valley Engine 5 and proceed into the structure with charged hose line for fire control to locate and extinguish any fire then perform primary search of the structure aided by additional crews

MAY 2022 • 15

The Splash to confirm no occupants in structure.

Valley Fire crews quickly located the origin and cause of the fire as electrical wires in the attic that had started insulation and wood on fire but was still in the smoldering stage causing large amounts of smoke to be produced filling the structure. Crews were able to catch the fire at its beginning stages and keep structural damage and loss to a minimum while ventilating the structure to clear out the smoke. No injuries reports and structure was confirmed vacant. A total of 6 Fire Engines, 2 Ladder Companies and various command staff responded to the incident.

The Spokane Valley Fire Department would like to remind residents if you see something say something. The quick actions of the passerby calling when they saw smoke in a structure allowed Valley Fire crews to arrive quickly and control the fire thereby saving the structure as a whole and keeping damage to a minimum.

March 27 – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) units responded this afternoon to an active working

structure fire at 17300 block of E. 3rd Ave in Spokane Valley. Spokane Valley Fire responded with a full fire response and first arriving unit Valley 22 (Battalion Chief) reported a fully involved double wide structure with flames visible from the front deck and front door of the house. All four residents were reported out of the structure uninjured and Red Cross was contacted to aid in finding housing for them as the structure is a total loss. The first arriving fire apparatus was Valley Ladder 10 the crew was directed to pull a hose line for fire control to locate and extinguish any fire then perform primary search of the structure aided by additional crews to confirm no occupants were in the structure.

Valley Fire crews were confronted interiorly with a complete fire involved structure which required crews to work more thoroughly to get complete control of the fire. The structure remains intact but again is still a complete loss due to the fire interiorly. No fire crews were injured during or after firefighting operations. The fire was contained

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to the original structure due to quick actions by the fire crews. 3rd Ave was closed for two blocks in either direction from the residents during firefighting operations as the nearest fire hydrant was directly across the street from the residence and water supply lines had to be laid across the street to the apparatus pumping the fire. A total of 6 Fire Engines, 2 Ladder Companies and various command staff responded to the incident.

911 when they awoke to smoke and flames burning up the wall next to the electrical panel in the structure.

The occupants were able to exit the structure safely but were exposed to some smoke while attempting to put the fire out themselves. One occupant was evaluated by AMR on scene after being exposed to smoke and was later drove to a local hospital by family members for further evaluation as they felt they did not need ambulance transport.

The fire remains under investigation at the time of this press release. The Spokane Valley Fire Department would like to remind residents that spring cleaning season has arrived and a great addition to spring cleaning is to check your smoke detectors and change your batteries in them if you haven’t already.

The initial arriving crew VE2 reported no fire showing and was quickly directed to the correct address approx. three houses south of the original reported address from the 911 caller. The occupants met with VE2 crew and reported that they had extinguished the fire with the garden hose running from the main home on the property that was being used for the domestic water supply to the outside structure. Fire crews completed a quick search of the structure to confirm fire was extinguished and no occupants were still in the structure. A small mattress and bean bag were still See SVFD REPORT, Page 28

March 30 – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to an early morning fire in an occupied 14ft x 40ft alternative outside structure being used as a “Tiny Home” in the back of the property in the 3200 block of N. Elton in Spokane Valley. Occupants called

16 • MAY 2022

The Splash

Much Ado

About Nothing May

by William Shakespeare

18, 19, 20 23, 24, 25, 26 Tickets $10-$14 | 7:30 pm Curtain Central Valley Performing Arts Center | 821 S Sullivan Rd, Spokane Valley Underwritten in part by:

CVHS eatre

Th ers Boost

CVHS Bear Boosters

Presented with special permission of Concord Theatricals New York/London

Lukins & Annis Attorneys

For tickets and info scan this QR code

brought to you by

Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

Ridgeline High School may not boast the history of surrounding schools in the area but thanks to students like Angela Topov, Falcon Nation can compete with any campus when it comes to school pride. “We have a new opportunity to make students feel like they belong,” Topov said. The junior was one of the coordinators of the inaugural “Verde Loco” campaign in March which focused on school spirit and community engagement.

“Angela is a leader,” said Ridgeline counselor Kara Twining. “She catches the vision of something and puts in the work with zero acceptance of praise.” Topov helped design the Verde Loco trophy and was one of the leads in the event’s work crew. She maintains a 3.4 grade point average and is part of the ASB Leadership program that coordinated a coat drive and food drive this school year.

Hayden Hockett has been a pillar for the Central Valley baseball squad this season. The senior is hitting .409 with 14 RBIs and 11 runs scored. He has 12 stolen bases and a .460 on-base percentage and went 4-for-4 with two RBIs in a win over Cheney. “I just try to lead by example,” said Hockett, a resident of Liberty Lake who starts at shortstop for the Bears. Hockett maintains a 3.9 grade point average and is part of the Running Start program at Spokane Community College.

As for the challenges and delays to baseball caused by the pandemic, Hockett remained resilient. “It definitely was challenging, I just tried to stay as motivated as possible every day.” Hockett will continue his baseball career on scholarship at the University of Pikeville in Kentucky where he plans to major in business.

You could say Tim Olsen is invested in the Liberty Lake community. The California native, who spent 30 years in the investment business before transitioning to real estate in 2017 with the local office of John L. Scott, serves on the city’s Planning Commission and Library Board of Trustees. He is also president of the Liberty Lake Kiwanis Club. “I’m really committed to this community,” Olsen said. “I love it here.” Olsen is a past member of the Toastmasters, a group that promotes best public speaking practices. He earned his Associates of Arts degree before attending UCLA, then starting as a trader in the institutional stock brokerage industry. Last December, he was named “Top Producer” by Spokane Real Producer. Olsen and his wife Erin moved to Liberty Lake 10 years ago.

He is the proud dad of two grown children.

THE

LIBERTY LAKE

COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

&

Thanks you for all you do in our community

Brought to you by

18 • MAY 2022

The Splash

The Splash

MAY 2022 • 19

20 • MAY 2022

The Splash

Friday, June 17, 2022 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, June 18, 2022

SAVE THE DATE

8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sign up deadline June 6 to list your sale and information in the official guide.

All fees support your local Liberty Lake Kiwanis Club, with 100% of proceeds going back to our community.

REGIST ER TODAY

Four registration options

1.

Online: $15

Submit your registration and secure credit card payment at www.libertylakekiwanis.org Take advantage of add-on options like a highlight color, a black border or a bold title to help your sale stand out from the rest. Online ads can also exceed the 20-word maximum for a small, per-word fee.

2.

Mail-in form : $20

3.

Commercial/Food Vendors: (online only): $250.00

Complete the registration form below and submit it along with your fee. Remember, registration must be received by June 6 to be included in the official guide.

Join the festivities in the middle of it all at Pavillion Park by being a vendor. Commercial vendors are welcome and receive a 12-foot by 12-foot section at the park. This registration option is available at www.libertylakekiwanis.org , and it includes a listing in the official guide. Double the space is available for $500.00

4.

Artisan Vendors: (online only): $75.00

Join in the fun at Pavillion Park and showcase your handcrafted goods.

Artisan Vendors are welcome at the $75.00 price and receive a 10-foot by 10-foot section in the park. This registration option is available at www.libertylakekiwanis.org.

Name Phone Address

 For registration-related inquiries, contact The Splash at 242-7752 or advertise@libertylakesplash.com.  For general yard sale inquiries or with vendor questions, contact Liberty Lake Kiwanis at LibertyLakeKiwanis.org.

Publishers of the official 2022 Yard Sale Guide

“ IT’S THE LAW ”

WHAT DOES YOUR REGISTRATION PAY FOR? A supported event: The sales will be advertised and publicized through regionwide outlets, and the Kiwanis Club is working with local authorities and strategic vendors to ensure a safe and well-supported event.

Restrooms: Portable restrooms are provided throughout the community for attendees’ convenience.

Thousands of shoppers: Liberty Lake is flooded with shoppers for this event every June, so timing your yard sale to correspond with the annual sales is just smart business.

Please pay the registration fee to ensure the future of the yard sales. After expenses, all proceeds from the event will be reinvested by the Kiwanis Club into the community.

A listing “on the map”: Attract customers before the sale even begins by featuring your sale in the official event guide. A 20-word description of your sale is complimentary with your registration fee, and 10,000 copies of the guide will be distributed to not only every address in Liberty Lake — but at businesses and newsstands throughout the area in the days leading up to and during the sale. Returning this year will also be the interactive map, for easy access to listings on your mobile device!

2018 PRSRT STD ECRWSS

U.S. Postage Paid Permit #010 ZIP CODE 99019

Feature your business in the guide!

Questions?

October 14-16, 2022

Liber ty Lake

Description (Not to exceed 20 words)

Payments should be made out to the Kiwanis Club of Liberty Lake. Mail them to The Splash, PO Box 363, Liberty Lake, WA 99019 along with the completed registration form. No phone or in-person registration is available. All proceeds will be used as scholarships for local graduates.

Washington State Quilt Show

Organized by

FREE

A limited number of advertising placements are available in the annual event guide. Call 242-7752 or email advertise@libertylakesplash.com to put your business and organization in front of thousands of eager shoppers in what is one of The Splash’s most dog-eared and poredover publications of the year.

Celebrating

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Liberty Lake

Advertising Deadline: June 1, 2022

In WASHINGTON Click or Call Two Business Days Before You Plan To Dig

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1-800-424-5555 or dial 811 Inland Empire Utility Coordinating Council www.ieucc811.org

ly u J f o h t 4 l a u n n 32nd A nity Parade Commu Line up at 10:00, corner of Shoreline and Liberty drive, parade starts at 11:00. Decorate your golf carts, bikes, etc., no dogs, free games after at Alpine Shores park. T-shirts for sale July 3, 4-6 pm island at Liberty drive and Liberty circle.

The Splash

HISTORY

MAY 2022 • 21

22 • MAY 2022

The Splash Brought to you by

Want to sponsor this section?

Ask us how! 242-7752

About and for Liberty Lake seniors

Bid Adieu to Mike and Betty Kennedy

By Ashley Humbird Splash contributor

On a bright Saturday morning, I met with two of the City of Liberty Lake’s residents who have served the community since 2002 in many ways behind the scenes.

Mike and Betty Kennedy are a husband-and-wife couple who made Liberty Lake their home in 2002 before the large population expansion and have been active members in the community ever since. From serving on the Council Board to being members of The Friends of the Library, they have made a long-lasting difference for their community.

living in Liberty Lake near them.

Back in the 90’s when Mike and Betty lived in Spokane, he was part of the City Planning Committee and they were looking at areas for future developments. The concept was for a wheel type planning design, where a main ‘hub’ of restaurants, stores, and other shops would serve the community around it and have trails, outdoor activities and usable space outlining around the ‘hub’ like the spokes on a wheel. Liberty Lake was a planned community at the time, and after coming out to take a look, it was decided to try this new concept here. And that’s exactly what Liberty Lake has become.

Mike remembers coming to Liberty Lake back in the 1950’s as a 7-year-old boy with his family for vacations. There were no homes, golf courses, or stores. The family would rent a cabin for the week and enjoy their time together. “I can remember there was a large dance hall, that eventually burned down. But the pilings were still there,” Mike shared. “At the end of the day, my bother and I would go down to the resort and clean out the boats that had been rented that day and the guy who owned the resort would give us a boat we could use.

Liberty Lake was always a cool place to be.”

Mike and Betty met in the third grade, having bonded over being the only two redheads in their class.

Their friendship has lasted the ages, and they recently celebrated 56 years of marriage this year. “The secret is working on it every single day,” Mike explains while looking loving at Betty. “She is my best friend. There is no one better in this life for me than her.” They share two children together, with their son

Volunteering is in their nature.

Betty has been a member of Friends of the Library since 2010, helping to raise money for the library to use for events. The Friends of the Library has their semi-annual book sale in June coming up soon, and last year they raised $2,000 dollars. Betty is one of the 25-plus member-strong Friends of the Library and enjoys her volunteering.

And was on that for a number of years,” Mike recalls. Mike was a regular attendee of the city council meetings and originally had had no intention of running for an elected position. “Having a position is helpful because you have a vote.

But the times when you’re not in a position, you can have influence.

And that can be more beneficial,” Mike said.

When Mike and Betty moved to Liberty Lake, he became active in the local council meetings. A position opened on the Liberty Lake Planning Commission and he was asked to join since he had experience from serving on Spokane’s Planning Committee. “I said yes, I would.

Mike was elected in 2017 to serve a four-year term as Liberty Lake City Council Position #6, and was sworn-in at the end of 2017. Mike was re-elected in 2021, but stepped down from the position on February 28th of this year due to health issues related to Betty. He views it not so much as stepping down, but as stepping up for his family and his love Betty. “Public service is 2nd place to my family. And they needed me.” He made a point while serving in his position to never miss a meeting. Through surgeries and cancer, Mike was never absent.

Mike spent his early years serving in the United States Navy as a photographer for the Blue Angels.

“I was a kid growing up around these awesome planes,” Mike recalls of his time spent in service.

Nowadays Mike and Betty are enjoying themselves both here in Liberty Lake and wherever their motorhome will take them. They are beginning their adventure this year with a trip to warmer climates since Spokane and Liberty Lake is stuck in a “will-it won’t-it” spring-time weather. They have enjoyed visiting the Oregon Coast since they lived for awhile in Oregon.

Public service for the couple will not be over. They plan to still be involved in the community, just not in an official capacity for now.

Being able to travel and enjoy their time together is important.

Photo by Ashley Humbird Mike and Betty Kennedy.

When talking with Mike and Betty you can feel the true mutual respect and love they have for one another and for their community.

MAY 2022 • 23

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Gonzaga baseball set to welcome U-Hi, CV standouts

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

This spring, Parker Smith and Ricco Longo are adversaries on the diamond in a long-standing rivalry between Central Valley and University.

In a matter of months, they will be teammates on one of the best college baseball teams in the country.

The two seniors are set to join Gonzaga University’s 2022 incoming class on scholarship, additions that continue the Bulldogs’ tradition of drawing some of the best in-state talent to an elite NCAA Division-1 program, currently ranked No. 12 in the nation.

Smith is a hard-throwing righthander for CV who features a 90 mph along with a slider and changeup.

“I’ll be close to home, get a great education and be part of a great baseball program.”

Smith broke onto the GSL scene as a freshman, emerging as a reliable starter for a Bears’ squad that finished 21-4 and qualified for state. He is currently ranked as the No. 24 prospect in the region

by Baseball Northwest. The senior joins a list of upper echelon CV pitchers from the past including Rusty Shellhorn, Trevor Shull and Scott Simon who went on to success in the NCAA and/or the professional ranks.

“Parker has the ability to be an elite collegiate and potentially professional arm,” said CV head coach Beau Kerns. “He brings energy and effort to the field with him every day which impacts others positively around him.”

Longo started for the Titans as a freshman, tackling outfield duties and hitting .360.

“It definitely was a challenge but it was a lot of fun,” said Longo of his premiere season. “I just went out there and competed.”

Going into his sophomore year, Longo had a breakout effort at a summer tournament as a member of the Expos, a select team. The

games took place at Washington Trust Field/Patterson Baseball Complex, Gonzaga’s home diamond. Last summer, Longo was named MVP of the Palouse Summer Series. He is currently listed at the No. 30 prospect by Baseball Northwest.

Longo transitioned to shortstop after his freshman year. He will join Titans from the past like Tyler Olson and Billy Moon who went on to stellar careers at GU. Longo bats third for U-Hi and has cemented his legacy as a clutch player in the field and at the plate this season. On March 31, in an 8-4 against Mt. Spokane, he was 3-for3 with a double and two RBIs. “Ricco is always the first to practice,” said U-Hi head coach Kevin May. “He’s just got a sense and a presence about him. He’s polite and respectful and doesn’t make excuses. He’s set the bar high for our younger players and has helped us get this program to where we want it to be.”

May pointed to the example of a two-game set against league leader Mead in which the Titans dropped the first game 15-3 but came back to win the second 6-4.

Longo came on to pitch in relief,

“Parker has a great three-pitch mix and we feel he has a chance to make an early impact,” GU head coach Mark Machtolf told gozags. com.

“One thing I know about Ricco, he’s always ready for any challenge,” May said. “He’s got the right mindset.”

Both Smith and Longo have battled through the cancellation of their sophomore seasons due to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the typical cold-weather challenges that accompany spring sports in the Inland Northwest.

The hurdles have only added to their motivation.

“When you’re throwing outside in 30-degree weather or throwing into a net, you just find a way to get it done,” said Smith.

Longo said his dad – Ricco Sr. – has set high standards for he and his two younger brothers to follow.

“My dad is probably the biggest reason I am where I am,” Longo said. “I learned to be humble and work hard.”

Longo will head off to Nebraska in June to compete in a summer league with other college players.

Smith is slated to pitch for a team out of Corvallis, Oregon in the West Coast League.

As for the history between the two future Zags, Smith describes it as “a friendly rivalry.”

Longo said he has appreciated the opportunity to face a twirler like Smith.

“It’s just a lot of fun competing against him,” Longo said. “He’s a great pitcher.”

CV hosts U-Hi on April 29 while the Bears will visit Titan Country on May 3. Both games are at 4 p.m.

“We think his skill set is a great match for our program,” said Machtolf of the senior co-captain.

“For me, it was just really about the coaches in picking GU over Oregon and OSU,” Smith said.

securing the victory.

“We just compete,” he said.

“We’re both successful in what we do.”

Longo covers shortstop for U-Hi, pitches occasionally and carries a .412 batting average for a Titans’ squad in the race for a Greater Spokane League championship.

Smith was recruited by Oregon and Oregon state but decided on GU due to the proximity to home and a top-flight coaching staff.

May 21

Contributed photos Ricco Longo (right) of University High and Parker Smith (left) from Central Valley are both headed to Gonzaga University on baseball scholarships. The future Zags teammates will face off against each other in the U-Hi/CV rivalry on April 29 and May 3.

Longo doesn’t hesitate when asked what he hopes to accomplish as part of Gonzaga’s distinguished program.

“I want to win the College World Series,” he said.

MAY 2022 • 25

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First CoCitizens of the Year Announced

of the Valley, a place where the community gathered. “As a couple they just exude what it means to be a citizen of the community without wanting recognition,” he said. “I can’t think of a better couple than Dave and Susan.”

By Nina Culver

Splash contributor

For the first time, a couple has received the Harry E. Nelson Citizen of the Year Award. The award is different in that it is awarded by a committee made up only of former Citizen of the Year recipients.

Dave and Susan Thompson have been longtime residents of Spokane Valley, both born and raised in the community. Dave Thompson owned Dave’s Bar and Grill for more than 30 years and Susan Thompson, who currently works for Banner Bank, has worked in banking for 40 years. Dave Thompson has served on the Modern Electric board of directors for many years and both have served on a variety of other boards as well.

But what sets them apart is their quiet generosity in the community.

They don’t give because they want accolades, said Chamber CEO Lance Beck. “He and Susan never game for the sake of getting credit for their giving,” he said. “They focus on youth and the community.”

Central Valley Superintendent Ben Small, a previous award recipient, was part of the committee that chose the Thompsons. “The discussion is around someone who has worked very quietly to better the Valley.”

Dave’s Bar and Grill was a staple

Valleyfest CEO Peggy Doering, a previous award recipient and member of the selection committee, said she first heard of the Thompson decades ago when she first moved to Spokane Valley and her young children played school sports.

“When our children were going to school, they were always sponsored

by Dave’s Bar and Grill,” she said.

“Dave always helped everybody – every auction, every fundraiser.”

She said Dave Thompson has also done what he can to help the community as a member of Modern Electric’s board. About 15 years ago she was contacted by Modern Electric about being a Valleyfest sponsor. Doering said she believes she has Thompson to thank for that.

“He prodded the board,” she said.

“They have been a major sponsor for the last 15 years.”

Doering said she was impressed that all the Dave’s Bar and Grill employees were kept on during the pandemic, even when Dave Thompson had to give away food to local food banks when he couldn’t use it fast enough.

The award was given out by Barry Baker of Baker Construction, the most recent previous recipient of the award. He described the couple as unassuming, humble and generous. Dave Thompson bought the former Sigs Tavern decades ago and turned it into a community

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.

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gathering place, Baker said. The restaurant was recently sold and Dave Thompson plans to retire.

have lasted that long? He started from scratch. It was just a tavern, but look what he’s built.”

“Dave and Susan are so generous in giving without asking for anything in return,” he said.

She credited the restaurant's “great” long-term employees for contributing toward that success.

Susan Thompson said she thought of Dave’s Bar and Grill, purchased in 1989, as an icon, while her husband said it was a wellknown establishment. “It is a valley icon, Dave’s is,” she said. “How many restaurants do you know

Dave Thompson didn’t speak long, joking that his wife and Baker had “stolen his thunder.” But he did thank the board of Modern Electric for their support. “There isn’t much I could do in this Valley without them,” he said.

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SVFD REPORT Continued from page 15

smoldering and were removed by fire crews and extinguished with water lines in the backyard. The type of structure even though still structurally standing is currently uninhabitable due to smoke and fire damage. No firefighter injuries were reported.

Occupants reported that there are usually two family members living in the structure. The cause of the fire was improper use of multiple extension cords running from the primary residence to the outside structure acting as a permanent power source. The structure did not have any smoke detectors installed,

The Splash fire extinguishers electrical wiring.

and

proper

Spokane Valley Fire wants to remind residents that use of alternate outside structure such as portable type sheds or “Tiny Home” type structures still require proper permitting which includes following the fire codes in that area.

Extension cords are for temporary use and are not permitted for use as permanent power source or in the place of approved permitted electrical wiring.

Significant Incidents: Smoke Investigation – March 29, 12:58 p.m. - Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) Valley Engine 3 (VE3) responded to a smoke

investigation. Upon arrival crews found 3 burn piles of large pine rounds and no one attending to the fires. VE3 contacted the homeowner who arrived within 10 minutes and explained they had a permit. The homeowner contacted his nephew who was in charge of the fires, and he arrived shortly. They were unable to produce a copy of their permit but they did have a photo of it and showed it to crews. The permit however, was not on site. The nephew was informed a fire watch was required by permit requirement anytime a fire was actively burning.

They agreed to understanding the permit requirements and VE3 returned in service.

Vehicle Fire – March 29, 8:00 p.m.

– Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) VE3 responded with Valley Brush 3 (VB3) to a pickup towing a 5th wheel and both units on fire with p o s s i b l e exposure to the nearby wooded areas.

With help from Spokane C o u n t y District 8 (SCFD8) and other SVFD Fire Crews, the fire was knocked down quickly.

VE3 then made entry to the back section of the trailer to overhaul the ceiling.

The rear passenger side window was broken out for ventilation and the skylight p u n c h e d open. Smoke and heat were release with no further extension found.

VE3 and VB3 released by

command and returned to service.

Vehicle Collision – April 4, 7:19 a.m. – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) VE3 was dispatched to a reported vehicle collision on I-90 eastbound at Appleway. VE3 arrived on scene directly behind Valley 22 (V22) to a single car into a light pole.

V-22 acted as a "downstream" protection for VE3 using V22’s apparatus. Prior to VE3 arrival, V22 performed and initial investigation and was in the process of starting a patient assessment when VE3 arrived.

VE3 continued patient care. The scene was then turned over to Law Enforcement.

About Spokane Department

Valley

Fire

The Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) serves a population of 136,000+ over 75-square miles, including the cities of Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake and Millwood, as well as surrounding unincorporated areas. In 2021, our cross-trained Firefighter/EMTs and Firefighter/Paramedics responded to more than 22,400 emergency calls.

Established in 1940, SVFD is committed to pursuing excellence and is distinguished as an accredited agency by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), and by SVFD’s Class 2 fire insurance rating from the Washington Survey and Rating Bureau Connect with SVFD at: spokanevalleyfire.com. For department news, safety information, and timely updates, find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

About Spokane Department

Valley

Fire

The Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) serves a population of 125,000+ over 75-square miles, including the cities of Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake and Millwood, as well as surrounding unincorporated areas. In 2021, our cross-trained Firefighter/EMTs and Firefighter/Paramedics responded to more than 22,400 emergency calls.

Established in 1940, SVFD is committed to pursuing excellence and is distinguished as an accredited agency by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), and by SVFD’s Class 2 fire insurance rating from the Washington Survey and Rating Bureau Connect with SVFD at: spokanevalleyfire.com. For department news, safety information, and timely updates, find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

MAY 2022 • 29

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The Splash THE

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CONTRIBUTORS

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

EN R ICH ED LIV IN G . LA STIN G VA LUE.

business and home in the greater Liberty Lake area.

Additional copies are located at drop-off locations in Liberty Lake and Otis Orchards.

THE

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Submitted materials

Tate Law Office • Liberty Lake Family Dentistry Pentagon • Liberty Lake EyeCare

LLPD REPORT Continued from page 6

Publishing House

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

Compulsion, and Malicious Mischief of publication in the following month’s Splash.

2nd.

Subscriptions Liberty Lake residents receive a complimentary copy Burglary, 3/31/22; Officers each month. Subscriptions for U.S. postal addresses responded to the 1300 block of North outside of the 99019 ZIP code cost $12 for 12 issues.

Liberty Lake Road for a report of a Send a check and subscription address to P.O. Box Burglary. Officers learned that an unknown 363, Liberty Lake, WA 99019. Subscriptions must be THE YOU DESER VEperson, broke into the THE LIBERTY LAKE store and took over $3,000.00 in cash received by the 15th of the month in order for the from the safe in the back. Officers subscription to begin with the issue printed the end Index of advertisers observed a male on the camera go into Following are the local advertisers in of that month.

New homes inthis Spokane, Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene. issue of The Splash. the store and get into the safe in the Correction policy COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE early morning hours. They secured The Splash strives for accuracy in all content. Errors the video and turned the case over to Amaculate Housekeeping 30 Kiwanis Liberty Lake 20 Pentagon 29 should be reported immediately to 242-7752 or by gr e e nst o ne ho me om thes.c detectives for further follow-up.

Banner Furnace & Fuel 31 Legacy Church 3, 5 email to editor@libertylakesplash.com. Confirmed Primerica 23 Detectives have a lead on the male Central Valley Theatre 16 Liberty Lake EyeCare Center 3 factual errors will be corrected on this page in the isRidgeline High School 13 and are currently working the case. sue following their discovery.

City of Liberty Lake 7, 16 Liberty Lake Family Dentistry 5 Simonds Dental Group 32 Advertising information Croach 25 Liberty Lake Farmers Market 3 Officers have encountered Spokane Roofing 15 Display ad copy and camera-ready ads are due by Greenstone 26, 32 Liberty Lake Fourth of July Parade 18 several suspicious vehicles and a Spokane Valley Summer Theatre 4 5 p.m. on the 15th of the month for the following variety of suspicious people within Friends of Mary Kuney 28 Liberty Lake Sewer & Water District25 Tate Law Office 13 month’s issue. Call 242-7752 for more information. the community.

The total number Hennessey 23 Liberty Lake Smile Source 29 Valley OBGYN 8 Advertising integrity of service calls has increase over Hot Dog Sports 14 Lilac Family Eyecare 28 Inaccurate or deceptive advertising is never knowWashington State Quilters 18 dramatically in the past month with HUB Sports Center 24 Marc Rubin 8 ingly accepted. Complaints about advertisers should several serious incidents that occurred.

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Free throws to Nationals, Hodges heads to Chicago

And he made sure his brother could come along on the trip as well since he inspired him to be better.

Hodges said that he thought that if his brother made it to nationals, he could too. “He’s the one that kind of got me to Chicago,” he said.

His mother said she appreciates that the Elks have created the Hoop Shoot program for children. The Elks National Foundation funds the program and pays for the travel costs for the players and their parents for high level competitions, which makes it affordable for families.

By Nina Culver

Splash contributor

Eleven-year-old Madox Hodges has been playing basketball so long he doesn’t remember when he first picked up a ball. But he’s going to get a chance to test those skills at the Elks Hoop Shoot National Finals in Chicago.

The hoop shoot is a free throw competition. Players shoot 10 free throws, take a break, then shoot 15 more. The person with the most completed free throws is the winner.

“You keep doing that step until Chicago,” Hodges said.

In order to qualify for nationals, Hodges first won the Spokane Hoop Shoot contest. Then he competed in districts in Moses Lake, at the state level in Olympia and then won the regional competition in the TriCities that brought together players from Oregon, Idaho, Alaska and Washington. Hodges won every competition. His highest score was 24 out of 25 and he shot a total of 93 out of 100 in the competitions.

“Every competition he’s won, he’s won the shooter of the day award, too,” said his mother, Christina Hodges. The Shooter of the Day is the person with the highest score across all the age groups.

Contributed photos Eleven-year-old Madox Hodges traveled to Chicago to compete in the 50th Anniversary of the Hoop Shoot program.

Hodges said he is involved in the program because he likes the competition, which for him starts at home. His older brother Micah qualified for the Hoop Shoot Nationals in 2020, but the event was cancelled because of the COVID pandemic. “That kind of inspired me to do more,” he said.

While he’s in Chicago, Hodges will have the chance to go to a Chicago Bulls game, which has him excited. “My shooting shorts, actually they’re my lucky shorts, are Chicago Bulls shorts,” he said.

His mother remembers buying him the shorts when he was two.

They didn’t have any sizes for a child that small, so she got a bigger size that went all the way to his ankles.

“He’s 11 now and he’s still wearing them,” his mother said. “I’ve had to sew these shorts together so many

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Hodges, a fifth grader at Liberty Lake Elementary School, doesn’t just shoot hoops in his driveway in order to prepare for competitions.

He practices free throws for hours a week, he plays games, does skills training and goes to the Shoot 360 basketball facility founded by former Gonzaga University player Dan Dickau. “He puts in a lot of time,” his mother said.

Hodges said he doesn’t usually get nervous before a competition because shooting free throws is something he does so often. “This one might be a little different because it’s in a stadium, but I don’t really get nervous in front of a crowd,” he said. “There’s no pressure. Even if you lose, you still got to go somewhere. You get to meet new people, too.”

“They put so much time and energy into these competitions,” she said. “They are just big champions for the kids.”

This year is the 50th anniversary of the Hoop Shoot program, which is open to kids ages 8-13. There are six divisions in each competition by age and gender. There are 12 regions in the United States, so there will be 72 children competing at nationals, though Hodges will be directly competing with only 11 other boys in his age division. The six Hoop Shoot National Champions will have their name and photo included in a new digital exhibit in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

As he gets older, Hodges hopes he’ll be able to put his basketball skills to good use. “I would like to be in the NBA, but I’ll take college (basketball),” he said.

And where would he like to play college basketball? Gonzaga University, of course.

“They’re one of the best colleges,” he said. “Maybe they need a free throw shooter, too.”

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