Liberty Lake’s Living Cemetery
Local landmarks honor legacy of loved ones, pg 12
On the surface, it seemed like a puzzling transition at best.
When Emily Osborne moved to Liberty Lake in May 2007 from Minnesota to start an insurance agency with no clients and no connections, the odds appeared stacked against her.
“There were people who told me I was crazy, that I was going to fail,” Osborne recalls. “That was actually a gift – it gave me such motivation.”
Those familiar with Osborne’s tenacity and work ethic knew better.
State Farm also had confidence that Osborne’s stellar track record with the company in her native Minnesota would translate into success halfway across the country. So, Osborne dug in, undaunted, making countless cold calls each week and building an agency from the ground up.
“I just said, ‘Give us the opportunity to earn your business,’” Osborne said.
Osborne’s office officially opened that December with a skeleton crew. Now, almost 17 years later, Osborne can stake a claim as the longest tenured insurance agent in Liberty Lake.
Seizing opportunity and savoring life – no matter how difficult the circumstances – had become commonplace for Osborne after losing her brother, and only sibling Darren, to a car accident when she was 27. He was only 25.
“I quit watching TV, I threw away my watches,” Osborne said.
She took up yoga and added a part-time job. Osborne and her parents also renovated an old farmhouse in the country. The mantra “Faith before fear” became a guiding source of strength.
“I don’t take for granted any day that I’m here,” Osborne said. “I wake up, put my feet on the floor and say, ‘Thank you.’”
Osborne’s determined outlook to make the most of each day goes beyond her professional career. She has been a longtime member of Liberty Lake Centennial Rotary and currently serves as a District Learning Facilitator for the international service club, conducting trainings across the region.
In addition to the contributions she makes on the local
level, Osborne has traveled internationally, representing the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self.” She has been part of a clean water mission in Honduras and polio vaccinations in India.
“Emily has endless energy,” said Arlene Fisher, a fellow Rotarian and friend. “She’s a true leader and represents Liberty Lake Rotary and the local district and international levels. “She’s an amazing mentor for me and I consider her one of my heroes.”
Osborne also serves on the board of another nonprofit – Joshua 1:Nine that has a unique mission in the Dominican Republic. The organization acts as a safety net for youth training to be professional baseball players, placing a priority on education and feasible backup plans if baseball doesn’t pan out. Joshua 1:Nine has started a
literacy program, built a kitchen and brought clean water to the DR community of Fondo Negro. The nonprofit also pays the salaries of five coaches who are part of the program.
“It’s about getting kids on the right path,” said Osborne who will make her third trip to DR later this year. “We want to support them in baseball if they stay in school.”
Osborne grew up in Austin, Minnesota, best known as the site of the Spam Museum, a tribute to the canned pre-cooked meat product made by Hormel Foods, a company that has its corporate headquarters in the town of around 26,000 residents. One of Osborne’s grandmothers worked for Hormel and traveled the world while her other grandma grew up in an orphanage and didn’t go beyond the eighth grade. Oborne credits both with teaching her valuable life lessons that have resonated beyond her formative years.
Osborne graduated from high school in 1994 and went on to earn her degree in finance with a minor in marketing from Minnesota State University-Mankato. She initially had aspirations to be a stockbroker out of college and worked at a bank for two years before seeking another career avenue.
The insurance business – with its focus on problem-solving, interacting with people and bringing a calming presence –proved to be the right fit.
Osborne is the proud mom of two kids – Maya, 13, and Frank, 11.
Q: We hear quite a bit about people from the Midwest being down-to-earth and neighborly. As a native Minnesotan who has traveled extensively in the U.S. and internationally and can draw comparisons, would you say this is a legitimate characterization?
Continued from page 2
A: Midwest people really are the salt of the earth as they will keep it real with you in a very kind and loving way. My elementary school friends are still my best friends today. As I’ve gotten older, I have realized the energy you put out is the energy you attract. I try and put myself in the right environments and surround myself with the givers, people that care about heart and service. My mother modeled this for us our whole lives. My father, who still does not have a cell phone, connected us more to nature, fishing and the outdoors. While most of us Westerners spend entirely too much time on our phones, there are good people doing great things all over the world. I have witnessed this.
Q: What were some of your first impressions of Liberty Lake when you made the move here from Minnesota in 2007?
been worth it. Anyone who has started a business from scratch knows it’s not for the weak-minded. You need to be completely invested and pour all your resources into it – your time, money and mental capacity. I had to say “no” to a lot of things for many years as I was working 50 to 70 hours a week as I started with no customers and zero income. That will motivate you. I appreciate every person who trusted us and is still with us today. I’ve been fortunate to have great bosses, leaders and mentors at State Farm who believed in me. Agents and now dear friends, Jeri Mainer and Shari Wilhelm took me under their wing and never let me lose the faith. I think the most beautiful words you can tell another human being is, “I believe in you.”
Q: For those of us on the outside, the insurance business can seem like a pretty tedious industry defined by layers of forms and regulations. How is it on the inside?
A: Insurance is highly regulated by many departments, including the state and each state has its own set of statutes, rules and regulations. There’s good reason why we need to be fully licensed as there are so many dynamics and different policies and things are always changing. We are really the messengers. Our goal is to be proactive and educate our customers so they can make informed decisions.
Q: What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of being involved in Rotary?
A: The sense of community and pride runs deep here. That’s a beautiful thing about small towns. Residents tend to know each other well, support local businesses and take pride in our town’s achievements. I loved it all. I was excited about three golf courses, but little did I know I would not have much time for golf. There’s a lot of collaboration in Liberty Lake, people working together to make this a great place to live. Amazing teachers, coaches, PTO parents, local business owners, a great police department and City Council, a plethora of nonprofits and city volunteers all add so much value to our community. We are also fortunate to have the HUB Sports Center here and all the work Phil Champlin and his team do for our youth through sports and mentorship. These things shape the character of the next generation and that’s really what it’s all about.
Q: It sounds like starting your own insurance agency was an uphill battle to say the least. What kept you motivated during that first challenging year?
A: Well, it wasn’t easy, but it’s
A: Rotary, hands down, has made me a better leader, businesswoman, mother and human. I have been involved in Rotary since 2007 and currently serve as our district’s Learning Facilitator (trainer). Because Rotary is an international humanitarian organization, I have had opportunities to do life-changing things around the world and it’s been a great gift of perspective. The more time you spend in other countries, the more you realize how much you take for
granted. I remind my kids when you’re involved in a cause bigger than yourself and your heart is really into something, you are in complete alignment and that’s a great place to be. The world will always have problems, we humans create most of them, but it’s good to know that there are people of action all over the world working together to create lasting change.
Q: As you’ve traveled to places like the Dominican Republic with causes like Joshua 1:Nine, how has it changed your perspective of the world?
A: Some of the happiest kids I have encountered live in impoverished Third World countries. We want more games, technology, a new bike and Jordans. These kids want clean drinking water, working bathrooms at their schools, new socks and more than one meal a day. So many kids in this world do not have access to basic human needs. One of my favorite quotes is, “When you have more than you need, build a bigger table not a higher fence.” If we can change the trajectory for any child, it is worth the time and effort. We have done great things like starting a literacy program, getting books in their homes and bringing clean water to the community. I hope it creates a ripple effect and someday these children pay it forward to another. It’s really about inspiring hope and making the world a better place.
Q: I think a lot of people want to help others who need support and encouragement but may not know when to start. What can the average person in Liberty Lake do to make a difference?
A: Our community is pretty abundant in people making a difference. We get great community support for the Rotary RIM Ride and Memorial Day Breakfast in Pavillion Park every year. These types of events raise funds that go back into our community so I would encourage others to spread the word and show up if they can. Find something that speaks to you, learn more about it and volunteer your time, ideas, or support
however you can. Food banks, Newby-Ginnings, Vanessa Behan, Family Promise and Naomi’s House are great local organizations that always need support.
Q: You were just 27 when your brother Darren lost his life in a car accident. How did you find healing from that tragic experience and grow some good from such severe grief while honoring your brother’s life?
A: I think how you handle adversity can either make you or break you in this life. Everything changed after that day. I stopped watching television and threw away all of my watches. I took up meditation and yoga to try and free my mind of his accident. I started running and lifting weights to release endorphins, relieve pain. I read a lot of books and still do but I never talked about any of it. I know now you can’t heal what you hide, or what you ignore, or what you avoid. The only way out is through. I think the best way to honor his life is to be grateful for every day I am given and to make the most of it while I am here.
Q: You are a successful businesswoman, civic leader, international volunteer and more but I get the feeling that you also take a lot of pride in being a terrific mom to your two kids. Why is that so important to you?
A: My children give me great purpose. My number one goal in life will to always be a person they are proud of, to be a great example to them in genuinely living life. We can tell our kids so many things, but they learn by our actions, our modeled behavior. One year on New Years Eve, the three of us made a pact that no matter what, we would never lie to each other, or to ourselves – about anything. This has sparked so many wonderful conversations and been both healing and hilarious. Emotional intelligence is crucial to helping us work through life’s challenges and foster positive connections with others. My wish for my kids is that they live a fulfilling and authentic life and to always live in their truth.
Splash news sources
Total incidents generated by Officers and emergency calls for service last month 477
Traffic Collisions/Hit & Runs / Injury Collisions 9
Citations (Traffic/Criminal/NonCriminal) 72
DUI (Driving Under Influence) 2
Thefts / Vehicle Prowls / Vehicle
Theft / Burglaries 25
Malicious Mischief 9
Argument / Assault DV / Simple Assault / Assault w/a Weapon 11
Parking Violations 0
Suspicious Vehicles 24
2024-88000532 DUI, 02/02/2024:
Officers conducted a traffic stop near E Mission Ave and N Molter Rd. They observed signs that the subject may be under the influence. The subject refused field sobriety tests and following the field investigation, the officer placed the driver under arrest for DUI. The driver was cited and released for DUI after a search warrant for blood was obtained and a sample of the blood was provided.
2024-88000678 Assault 4 DV, 02/11/2024:
Officers responded to the report of an assault in progress around the 22700 block of East Appleway Avenue. The caller reported hearing subjects yelling at each other and
one advised they had been hit by the other person. Officers arrived and spoke with both subjects. After speaking with a witness, officers arrested the subject who had been the primary aggressor. The subject was booked into Spokane County Jail for Assault 4 Domestic Violence.
from Post Falls. The owner arrived shortly after and advised that all the personal property inside the vehicle was still there, including his firearm that had been in the vehicle. No suspects were located around the vehicle after it was located.
2024-88001095, Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle, 02/28/2024:
Officers were dispatched to the Liberty Lake Police Department to investigate the report that a stolen vehicle was “pinging” at the location. Officers responded and determined that the vehicle was not located at the Police Department. While searching the area, the vehicle was located unoccupied in the 1400 block of N Meadowwood Ln. The owner advised it had been stolen earlier in the morning
The Liberty Lake Police Department completed two separate self-defense classes for woman/high school students. Both the classes were instructed by our defensive tactics instructors and were well received. The Liberty Lake Police department would like to remind everyone not to leave their valuables inside your vehicles at night and to secure your doors and windows. Stay safe, and report anything suspicious you feel looks out of place.
It’s only natural that the start of spring comes with the arrival of a recreation coordinator for the city of Liberty Lake.
Mickael Stevens started in that newly created job on March 4, now serving as the city’s point person with individuals and organizations that want to stage activities at cityowned sites. He’ll also be managing reservations for city park facilities as well as helping staff develop any new signage that might be needed at those locations. The new recreation coordinator says he’s also looking forward to developing more in-house programming after this year.
“I want to see what the community may want for programming and eventually take that to the Parks and Arts Commission and the City Council,” he said.
Stevens will likely be drawing on some of the activities work he’s performed in his earlier jobs. For eight years, he managed the recreation department for the city of Rathdrum, Idaho. He was most recently the general manager of Spokane Gymnastics for six months. And, for nearly two years prior to the Rathdrum job, he managed an afterschool program with the Coeur d’Alene Tribe for at-risk youths.
Stevens, who was born and raised in Hawaii, earned his associate degree at North Idaho College and went to Southern Virginia University for his bachelor’s degree in history. Then he entered his current career path after enrolling at Gonzaga University to study sports and athletic administration.
“I wanted to get into college athletics,” he explained. “I enjoy the creativity part in designing events and started developing a passion for it.”
Two years ago, Stevens also opened up Merlin’s Comedy Club at the 400seat Salvation Army Kroc Center Theater in Coeur d’Alene. He hopes to use his connections with that venture to possibly add family-based comedians to events in Liberty Lake such as August’s Barefoot in the Park.
n Liberty Lake Municipal Library
Details on these FREE sessions
at www.libertylakewa.gov/435/Library.
| Waterwise Landscaping — Saturday, April 6, at 11 a.m.
| Raised Bed Gardening — Thursday, April 25, at 6:30 p.m.
| Houseplant Parenting — Saturday, May 11, at 11 a.m.
| Fire-Resistant Landscaping — Thursday, May 23, at 6 p.m.
n Thursdays at 6 p.m.
n 8-week series starts April 18
Learn about your city’s services during this spring’s free program of site visits. Details at: www.libertylakewa.gov
n Saturday, April 27, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
n Town Square Park
Waste Management’s Liberty Lake customers can bring clean green and bulky waste. (Use your WM coupon!)
Weekly afternoon sports camps for children at Liberty Lake’s parks. Cost and other info at www.libertylakewa.gov/162/Park-Programs-Activities
n Tennis — Mondays, April 8-May 6, at Rocky Hill Park • For ages 7-10 & 11-15
n Soccer — Tuesdays, April 9-May 21, at Pavillion Park • For ages 2-3, 3-4 & 4-5
n Soccer — Wednesdays, April 10-May 8, at Pavillion Park • For ages 4-7 & 8-12
n Lacrosse — Tuesdays, April 9-May 7, at Pavillion Park • For ages 4-7 & 8-12
n Basketball — Thursdays, April 11-May 9, at Orchard Park • For ages 4-7 & 8-12
n Flag Football — Fridays, April 12-May 10, at Orchard Park
• For ages 4-7 & 8-12
• Brad Hamblet spoke in public comments on March 19, encouraging the city to consider “electrifying your fleet” as it makes future purchases related to municipal vehicles.
• Aaron McMurray of the Innovia Foundation told council he has been working with several residents including Marla Larson and Tom Sahlberg on a charitable fund to benefit Liberty Lake. “We’re seeing more and more folks build these funds in a grassroots way,” McMurray said. The fund would be called “Liberty Lake Together” with use of funds to be determined by residents. Mayor Cris Kaminskas has also been involved in conversations about the fund.
• Council Member Dan Dunne was involved in discussions with Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown about the Expo ’74 anniversary celebration which begins in May. “Good things are coming to town,” Dunne said.
• Sindhu Surapaneni, a resident of Liberty Lake, was honored with a Young Woman of Achievement by YWCA. A prolific artist, Surapaneni donates money from the sale of her artwork to nonprofit causes like Blessings and Beyond and Giving Backpacks. She began teaching art to kids during the pandemic and has taught over 400 classes. Surapaneni was recognized by the mayor and council at the March 19 meeting.
• Kaminskas noted that Dunne is now the longest tenured member of City Council in the history of Liberty Lake.
• Work is expected to be completed at the Trailhead driving range by the end of March. The upgrade includes new netting and poles.
• The next installment of the Liberty Lake City Academy will begin April 18 with sessions taking place each Thursday for eight weeks beginning at 6 p.m. at City Hall. The program provides an overview of municipal government and services and is open to all residents. Visit www.libertylakewa.gov for more details.
• Spring Cleanup Day will take place Saturday, April 27 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Town Square Park. Residents can bring clean green and bulky waste and are encouraged to bring their Waste Management coupon.
• Washington State Library Association has honored a pair of employees of the Liberty Lake Library, Children’s Library Associate Erin Smith and Adult & Teen Services Librarian Mikayla Kittilstved.
• While no formal proposal has been submitted to occupy the restaurant space at Trailhead, the city now has “really great range of potentially interested parties,” said Planning and Engineering Manager Lisa Key.
• The Library Board of Trustees report on March 19 included a recap of 2023, a year that featured 62,628 visitors, 107,902 checkouts, 382 meeting room reservations and 6.505 library card holders. Library Director Jandy Humble said the library has experienced an influx of visitors and checkouts in the first quarter –partly due to the ripple effect of a closure at the Post Falls Library due to water damage.
• The library has 40 free tickets available to the April 21 Spokane Symphony concert thanks to a program sponsored by Friends of the Library. Complimentary
passes are also available to Mobius Science Center and the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture.
• A kiosk titled “Pavillion Park Historic Outlook” will be installed at the park to provide a description and context of the mural there. The Parks and Arts Commission is steering the project.
• A joint workshop was held on March 5 with council and the Community Engagement Commission. City Administrator Mark McAvoy and Commission Chair Robin Bekkedhal presided. Topics included event calendars, the Liberty Lake Farmers Market, proposed amendments to the ordinance that established the commission and a process to submit project proposals.
• Council approved grant funding of $3,800 for two portable breath test units and two radar units through the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs.
• The council heard updates from two regional partner agencies on March 5. Rose Noble, CEO of Visit Spokane presented an overview of the group’s 2023 activities as well as highlights from this year’s business plan. Greater Spokane Inc. was represented by Vice President of Economic Development Gary Ballew gave a summary of GSI’s accomplishments last year before providing a look at 2024 objectives. Later in the meeting council approved the 2024-26 agreement with Visit Spokane and the 2024 contract with GSI.
• McAvoy walked council through the possible contents of a proposed Transparency Act, including several new elements such as the placement of decisions outside reports, public engagement and the logistics of providing and posting reports.
When it comes to the funding of road maintenance in Liberty Lake, you could say the City Council reached a crossroads last year.
The long-standing utility tax – which applies a 3-percent duty to gas, electric, garbage, cable and phone services – has been a reliable reservoir for street upkeep over the years, producing $1 million alone in 2023. Yet, since it was introduced in 2011 as a way to offset revenue loss related to the Great Recession, the utility tax has faced its share of criticism.
As far back as the summer of 2011, when the tax stood at 6 percent, certain members of council and the business community derided the approach. At a council meeting that July as revenue from the tax through June had already checked in at 71 percent of the expected $825,000 total amount for the year, several around the dais noted that it was intended as a stopgap to shore up general fund revenue shortfalls and not a permanent fixture of the budget.
The latest version of the governing board revisited some of the same themes last year, tossing around ideas such as scrapping the tax entirely or reducing certain utilities to a lesser amount in combination with a slight increase in sales tax that would apply to everyone who made purchases within city limits.
“This will ease the burden on our city residents and businesses and spread the cost of (street) maintenance to those shopping in the city limits,” Mayor Cris Kaminskas told council last October. “The council will make that final decision during their budget review.”
When all was said and done, council reached a hybrid compromise, agreeing to bring the rate down to 1 percent on all five utilities while instituting a mechanism known as a Transportation Benefit District (TBD) that will generate revenue through a 0.1 percent sales tax.
The shift is expected to raise around $700,000 from utility tax and $300,000 through sales tax annually with the money dedicated to street preservation. The changes to the utility tax will take effect in June while the TBD bump in sales tax will begin in April.
“We’ve billed this as a bit of a transition year as far as our tax structure and what goes where,” said Finance Director Kyle Dixon.
The TBD will be familiar to longtime Liberty Lake residents as the avenue that provided seed money for the community’s extensive trail system through a grassroots campaign that began in the mid-1990s. Promoted as “the cost of a pizza a month,” the selftaxing program was approved by area residents as a way to get trail construction from the design phase to implementation.
TBDs no longer require a public vote and can be passed by a council majority. Dixon said there was some apprehension around the dais to completely abandon the utility tax even with the TBD in place.
“Ultimately, under this theme of transition, the majority of council said, ‘Let’s make sure we have what we need for streets before eliminating the utility tax,’” he said.
The idea of sharing the tax responsibility with those who use Liberty Lake roads but may not live in the city became a recurring point as discussions ramped up to a decision last year.
“When it comes to funding roads, the TBD is a preferential taxing mechanism to the utility tax because it doesn’t all fall on residents,” Dixon said. “Anyone who travels into the city of Liberty Lake and makes a purchase pays this tax. They are using the roads we need to
maintain.”
Improvements to transportation infrastructure will not fall solely on the new blend of utility and sales tax, Dixon says. Along with pursuing a variety of grants, Dixon pointed out that the Real Estate Excise Tax or REET, with some $4.5 million currently in the coffers, can be used to support street capital projects.
The uptick of 0.1 percent (10 cents on a $100 purchase) brings the overall sales tax rate in Liberty Lake to 9 percent with 6.5 percent collected by the state, 1.6 percent going to Spokane County and the remaining 0.9 percent allotted to the city.
Liberty Lake brought in a record $6.4 million in sales tax revenue last year.
“Each year is a new benchmark as we add new commerce and business and move toward buildout,” Dixon said.
Council Member Mike Kennedy said he has been a proponent of “reducing the utility tax by 50 percent or eliminating it entirely as (city) revenue has grown in other areas.”
As for the decrease in utility tax and the addition of a TBD, Kennedy said he has concerns.
“Government has cut one tax and put in another,” he said. “What we’re hearing is that this will reduce taxes for residents but what is that number?”
Dixon said such a savings is difficult to quantify since not all residents have the same lineup of utilities.
“We’re not in the business of taxing just to tax,” he said. “We’re always looking for new strategies to reduce the tax burden on residents.”
• Probate and Trust Administration
• Long-Term Care Planning
• Free Initial Consultation
Splash news sources
Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) crews responded to a total of 1,843 emergency incidents for February 2024.
Emergency Incidents for Station 3 in Liberty Lake, 132.
Emergency Medical Services
85.3%
Motor Vehicle Collisions
(WUI) Fuels Reduction Program.
Across the country, Spokane County is within the top 20th percentile of wildfire risk and has the 3rd highest rate of humanrelated wildland fires in the state. All counties in Washington State are affected by smoke produced by wildland fires each year and the 2040 burn projections for the area are expected to quadruple.
SVFD will use this grant funding to help build a more comprehensive and sustainable wildfire mitigation program. The program will include public education and fuels reduction activities that will prioritize at risk residents and neighborhood growth within or near the WUI. Spokane County recorded a 10-year growth rate of approximately 14.5% between 2010 and 2020, with SVFD experiencing housing growth in the WUI areas of our fire district.
“This population growth not only increases the calls for service for SVFD,” said Deputy Chief of Prevention, Brett Anderson, “it also increases the need to develop strategies to address the increase in wildfire risk.”
February
Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) is proud to announce we have received a grant in the amount $20,000 from State Farm, as part of our 2024 Wildland Urban Interface
This invitation extends to all graduating seniors who live in the community, regardless of where they attend high school.
In order to participate, simply submit a photo with the following information to danica@libertylakesplash.com: Graduate’s name, high school, parents’ names and plans after graduation
Information must be received by Monday, May 20th. Contact 509-242-7752 or danica@libertylakesplash.com with any questions.
Last year SVFD surveyed over 500 homes within the WUI for their fire risk and provided information for homeowners on how to lower their risk by implementing fire risk strategies around their property and near their home.
February 14
Members of the Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) and the City of Spokane Fire Department acted swiftly Valentine’s night to extinguish a fire that consumed a large portion of a single wide trailer home in the Spokane Valley near the 5800 block of East 4th Ave. The fire was extinguished within 15 minutes of the first engine’s arrival.
Prior to their arrival on scene, VE6 observed a large smoke column. VE6 arrived on scene first and immediately stretched a hose line, getting water quickly on the fire. The occupants were already out of the trailer home prior to the first unit’s arrival. Automatic Aid (and Valley units being on other calls) resulted in multiple units from the City of Spokane fire department filling out the rest of the fire response. Units involved included VE6, V21, V22 and V31 from the Spokane Valley Fire Department as well as SE14, SE8,
SE1, SE7, Quint 11 and SL1 from the City of Spokane Fire Department.
During every structure fire, a standardized series of events occur including, rapidly extinguishing the known fire, checking the structure for fire extension into hidden areas, a rapid primary search of the entire building (or trailer) for occupants, and a more thorough secondary search of the entire building for occupants. Other actions can include removing or covering valuables that could be damaged during suppression activities, as well as removing debris resulting from the fire. These events can occur more quickly when there are more units on scene, early in the fire operation.
Four residents (two adults and two children) were displaced from the trailer home with Red Cross arriving to provide assistance. Two dogs were inside during the fire and though they were removed from the trailer home as quickly as possible, they were not able to be resuscitated. American Medical Response (AMR) evaluated one of the adult occupants.
There were no firefighter injuries, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
February 16
Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) is honored to announce that we have been selected as the winner of the 2024 Randy R. Bruegman Agency Innovation Award from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.
The award is presented to an agency that has embraced continuous improvement, is focused on outcomes, embodies progressive leadership, and has worked collaboratively within their agency and community to innovate a practice leading to improved outcomes that could serve as a model for the greater fire and emergency service.
The recipient of the 2024 Randy R. Bruegman Agency Innovation Award is the Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) which successfully executed two innovative fire levy campaigns within six months, using data analytics and community engagement to secure crucial funding. Leveraging geographic and demographic data, SVFD strategically focused on neighborhoods with the highest service usage and employed a multichannel social media campaign,
including infographics, videos, and town hall meetings, to inform and engage the community.
The introduction of a “levy calculator” provided transparency on the personal impact of a “yes” vote on residents’ taxes, fostering accountability. The outcomes included successful passage of the levy, enhanced community support, maintained response times, upgraded equipment and training, increased transparency, and improved safety awareness, aligning with SVFD’s strategic goals. The design, development, and implementation involved a well-structured process, with collaboration across departments, a dedicated campaign team, technology integration, and transparent communication. To replicate the innovation, agencies are advised to focus on needs assessment, goal setting, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, technology integration, communication materials, community engagement, transparency measures, collaborations, and voting drives, as outlined by SVFD’s comprehensive strategy.
“This prestigious recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and innovative spirit of every member of our fire department. We are immensely proud of the commitment to excellence that our team has demonstrated. The Randy R. Bruegman Agency Innovation Award acknowledges our relentless pursuit of innovative practices in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our community. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of our community, partners, and the incredible efforts of each member of the Spokane Valley Fire Department. We look forward to continuing our mission of service, safety, and innovation. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey.” - Chief Frank Soto Jr. Spokane Valley Fire Department
For more information on the award and the Center for Public Safety Excellence go to: www.cpse. org.
Connect with SVFD at: spokanevalleyfire.com. For department news, safety information, and timely updates, find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
“It’s connective” – Diverse memorials create sentimental tapestryBy Craig Howard Splash Contributing Editor
Rand Hatch and his four siblings have a simple but important objective – to honor their beloved parents in a distinctive way.
Jack and Lois Hatch called Liberty Lake home for decades, establishing a robust volunteer agenda and an exercise regiment to match. Jack was an avid jogger and Lois enjoyed snow skiing and walking nearly 4 miles each morning along the winding paths near the family home.
Jack passed away in 1999 and Lois followed two decades later at the age of 93.
Hatch said the prevailing idea at this point is a memorial bench that would pay homage to the couple’s love of the outdoors and chewing up miles on their treasured trails.
“I think something like that would make sense,” Hatch said. “We’ll be doing something.”
In moving forward with an interactive memorial, the Hatch family will be joining a network that has become a sentimental trademark of Liberty Lake’s terrain defined by meandering trails, sprawling greenspace and trees around every corner. The benches, gardens, trees, plaques and other landmarks that celebrate lives well-lived are woven into the fabric of the community, tying past generations and legacies into present-day consciousness.
“It’s connective,” said Steven Daines, son of Bernard Daines, a high-tech and business pioneer, who passed away in 2014 and is memorialized on a bench at Rocky Hill Park near the Story Walk. “It’s in a park, it’s on a bench. You know right where it is. It’s not a monument or statue of him in some fancy place. I think it’s special.”
Daines says he points out the bench to his kids when they visit the park. The memorial was an Eagle Scout project taken on by Central Valley student Eli Demars Lake. When asked what his late father would say about a park bench with his name on it, Daines had a thought
or two.
“He probably would have made it out of Legos instead or taken his name off it and put (his wife) Marsha’s name on it,” he said.
High up on a bluff at Rocky Hill Park, where the view of sunsets through towering pine trees resembles a panoramic post card, a spartan bench with the phrase “Watching the Clouds” stands watch over the greenspace. The landmark pays tribute to the memory of Lyle Domrese, who passed in 2010 after working over four decades in the railroad industry and serving his country as a member of the Washington Air National Guard.
Down the hill, a short walk from the Daines’ bench is another feature that trumpets the sacrifice of veterans.
Rocky Hill is one of five sites in the city that comprise the Fallen Heroes Circuit Course, a network of exercise stations that pays respect to each branch of the military. A large bronze placard at each location features an image and tribute to a local enlisted man or woman who lost their life defending American freedom.
“We want people to see these stories and know these stories,” said Bob Wiese, a former Marine who was the catalyst behind the Fallen Heroes project.
Just to the west of Rocky Hill Park, the Marian J. Schneidmiller Rose Garden savors the memory of a community matron. Dedicated in October 2000 at Pavillion Park, nearly a year before the official incorporation of Liberty Lake, the tranquil space on the west end of the park incorporates a rock design reminiscent of the stone wall that served as the backdrop for Marian’s adored roses.
Marian’s sons, Rod and Ross Schneidmiller, came up with the idea to honor their mother with the garden after she passed in 1998.
Ross, founder of the Liberty Lake Historical Society, said his mom would tend to the climbing roses beginning at sunrise after her husband, Elmer, would head out to work on the farm. The Schneidmiller family donated the acreage to
develop Pavilion Park.
A more contemporary pioneer in Liberty Lake’s history is honored just around the corner from the rose garden on an elevated plaque in the shadows of the pavilion stage. The engraved face of Lud Kramer, a former Seattle City Councilman and Washington Secretary of State who migrated to Liberty Lake in 1995 with his wife Patricia, serves as the centerpiece of the display. Kramer was integral to the effort to incorporate Liberty Lake as well as movements to establish the trail system and the library. He passed in 2004.
The bronze marker also includes images of Steve Peterson, the city’s first mayor, taking the oath of office with his wife Charmaine by his side.
The inaugural City Council is also pictured.
Stroll due north from Kramer’s visage and you will find a pair of well-worn benches donated by the Beachcombers Garden Club. One of the longest-standing civic clubs in the area, the group is known for its generous charitable work, fostering a love of gardening and spawning projects that beautify and enrich the community. Over the years, the club has donated plantings at the Nature’s Place at Meadowwood Arboretum near City Hall, each in honor of a Beachcomber who has passed on.
City Council Member Wendy Van Orman is part of the Liberty Lake Lions Club that has been a catalyst in developing the arboretum
in 2000
one of several tributes dotted
Bay, a memorial in honor of Gregory James Beckham, who served in
remembrance of service to country, this one to Marine Corporal Joshua R. Dumaw,
local enlisted men and women
into a community gem. She said the assortment of benches sponsored by the Lions – each one recognizing a fellow club member – are part of a unique effort involving 1,000 pounds of recycled plastic that are crafted into each bench where visitors can sit and absorb the calming aesthetics of the arboretum.
Van Orman tells the story of the late John Duenow who taught music at Eastern Washington for 30 years and was active in Liberty Lake Kiwanis until his death in 2015. John and his wife Sally contributed to the campaign to incorporate Liberty Lake and were active in the local SCOPE (Sheriff’s Community Oriented Policing Effort) chapter. After John passed, Sally decided to cherish his memory with a bench in the arboretum.
“You look at the names on these benches and say, ‘These people really made a difference in the history of Liberty Lake,” Van Orman said.
Mike and Betty Kennedy savor opportunities to visit the arboretum where a bench in remembrance of their late daughter Michelle overlooks the community garden.
“It gives us a warm and fuzzy feeling,” said Mike, a member of the City Council. “I’ll introduce myself to complete strangers and they’ll ask, ‘Do you have a family member with a bench in the arboretum? We sit there and think about the person this bench is for.’”
Sometimes, pieces of personal history find their way into a community thoroughfare like artifacts in a museum.
Shirley Schoenberger was one of the driving forces in the campaign to establish an extensive network of trails in Liberty Lake that took hold in the mid-1990s. After she passed in 2014, the city presented her husband Ron with a plaque proclaiming a section near Liberty Lake Golf Course, “Shirley’s Trail.”
The plaque was attached to a bench that once sat in Shirley’s yard across the street. The bench is now a staple along the trail that was so close to Shirley’s heart.
Another project to memorialize a local trails pioneer is being spearheaded by Jim Frank, founder of Greenstone Homes and longtime Liberty Lake resident. Tom Specht is recognized as the catalyst who turned the vision of a vast web of walking paths into a reality along with Schoenberger and other members of the Trails Committee. Specht passed in January of 2022.
Frank said the concept of dedicating “Tom’s Mile” encompassing a trail portion from Sandy Beach to Molter would “not only recognize the work of Tom but the work of the entire Trails Committee.” There has been talk of including a sign about the origins of the trails system that would feature interpretive elements.
Liberty Lake’s newest greenspace, Orchard Park, may not yet feature the collection of landmarks seen in fellow community parks but a distinctive memorial dedicated last year has become one
of the park’s trademarks. A flagpole and stone marker denote a “Never Forget Garden” that, according the inscription, serves as “a living tribute to all of America’s veterans and their families.” The project was a collaborative effort between the Daughters of the American Revolution, Liberty Lake Rotary, the city’s Parks and Arts Commission and Craig and Ellen Fallon.
Some memorial markers are not as visible as others. A stoic stone monument celebrating the life and contributions of Gregory James Beckham is tucked among the foliage on the shores of Liberty Lake at MacKenzie Bay.
“Most people are under the impression that it’s a gravesite, but it’s a memorial,” said Dan Spalding who has lived on the property since 2016 and learned of the marker’s background from representatives of the church who originally placed the tribute there.
A Spokane native, Beckham was 33 when he died in a drowning accident. He served his country proudly for 14 years, including three years in active duty and 11 in the National Guard. Beckham’s obituary from 2007 describes him as “fun-loving, awesome person who accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was extremely handy and enjoyed helping anyone who asked. He will be deeply missed and our only consolation is we are assured to see him again in heaven.”
“Someone had really good intentions with that memorial,” Spalding said.
Thinking of honoring a loved one with a bench or other landmark within municipal boundaries? The city of Liberty Lake has a policy, better known as Ordinance 168A, that provides direction on the process. The city must approve the type, style, design and location of the amenity and will install on the city’s dime it after the outside party has covered the cost to purchase the landmark. Questions? Contact Operations and Maintenance Director Jen Camp at 509-7556714 or jcamp@libertylakewa. gov. Nature’s Place at Meadowwood Arboretum features trees, benches, arbors and plants dedicated to loved ones. Starting April through June, the Liberty Lake Lion's Club will be adding three metal tables that will be installed on pavers and bricks. The project will include an opportunity for the community to help support the arboretum by purchasing pavers and bricks with the names of relatives, veterans, business entities and more. The pavers and bricks will be installed in September of this year. Cost: $500 for a 12 x 12 paver or $60 for a brick. Questions? Contact Wendy Van Orman at vanormanby5@gmail. com.
A new initiative is being introduced in Liberty Lake to foster community spirit and financial support for local events and activities. Marla Larson, a key figure in the community, explained in an interview the need for the formation of a foundation and the unique way it would function under the Innovia Foundation's umbrella to enable tax-deductible contributions for the various community projects. This initiative, distinct from previous efforts like Christmas Stars, aims to create a structured way for citizens and businesses to contribute to the prosperity and generosity of Liberty Lake’s residents.
Despite being in its early stages, a mission statement has been created and Larson shares that it states, “to foster a vibrant community spirit by financially empowering events and gatherings that celebrate, unite, and enrich our city's diverse population.” The initiative has begun forming a board of directors,
although not all potential members have confirmed their participation. “We have some community leaders that have stepped up and committed to it,” Lason will update the board of director’s names once they are out of the preliminary stages. The foundation is currently seeking community leaders to join its board, emphasizing the need for collective support to ensure its success.
To kickstart this initiative and get the community excited about the opportunity, an informational event is scheduled for May 15th at 5pm at Trail Breaker, aiming to raise awareness and support from the community. Larson explains that “We want to get the information out there so that, you know, citizens are willing to, you know, give back to the community and understand what this is all about.”
The “goal is to have the foundation fully established by the end of the summer” shares Larson, encouraging contributions from individuals and corporations to support events like Light Up Liberty Lake and the 4th of July events, among others.
The Innovia Foundation, a Spokane-based community foundation operating for 50 years across 17 counties in Eastern Washington and North Idaho, will serve as the overseeing body for this new foundation. It aims to simplify and unify the
funding process for Liberty Lake's numerous independent events and activities. By doing so, it offers a dual benefit: providing a means for tax-deductible contributions and establishing a long-term endowment to support the community's future.
The Innovia Foundation
Since its establishment in 1974, coinciding with Expo '74, Innovia Foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life in the greater Spokane region. As a key player in fostering communityled generosity and support, the “foundation's unique approach to charitable giving is shedding light on the power of endowed funds to amplify the impact of donations”, according to Aaron McMurray, Innovia's Chief Strategy Officer.
Endowed charitable funds are at the heart of Innovia Foundation's sustainable model of philanthropy. By creating these funds, donations are allowed to grow over time, benefiting the community year after year. This long-term approach ensures that the foundation continues to thrive.
benefits for their communities. By doing so, donors can also take advantage of substantial tax savings, offering a practical and philanthropic alternative to traditional asset management.
“Many folks want to take care of their kids and take care of their grandkids,” McMurray shares, “but they also really care about their community, and so people really like this idea that they could make a decision today to leave something for their community.”
With a minimal administrative fee of one and a half percent, the majority of contributions directly support community projects and initiatives. Innovia Foundation offers flexible fund types that accommodate diverse donor preferences. These range from immediate grant-making "passthrough" funds to long-term "endowed" funds, which require a year of investing before yielding annual distributions.
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*including, but not limited to
At Innovia Foundation, donors have the power to direct the allocation of funds for the specific foundation, in this case Liberty Lake Better Together and all the different events will be giving to. This means that contributions directly reflect the benefactors' intentions, ensuring that their support has a genuine and lasting impact. For instance, the Liberty Lake Better Together Fund aims to foster unity and communal welfare in Liberty Lake. The local board of directors made up of community members will play a significant role in deciding how these grants are distributed, tailoring the support to meet the town's immediate and future needs.
Endowed funds not only cater to immediate charitable giving, but they also serve as vehicles for legacy planning. Innovia Foundation encourages donors to contribute through various means, including estate planning, to ensure lasting
Looking back at Innovia Foundation's impact, McMurray highlights significant contributions to regional landmarks and initiatives such as the Fox Theater and the Centennial Trail. Innovia's grants cover multiple sectors, addressing everything from education and health to economic vitality and arts and culture. “It's just an exciting opportunity for anybody who cares about the future of Liberty Lake to be involved in and be generous,” McMurray explains that it’s a great way to diversify donated funds versus giving to just one non-profit organization.
Innovia Foundation is eager to continue its mission by engaging with community members and potential donors. Upcoming discussions, including a recent presentation to the Liberty Lake City Council, will further broaden awareness and participation in these philanthropic efforts. The meeting is scheduled for May 5th, and McMurray will be presenting and answering questions for the community members in Liberty Lake.
By John McCallum
Splash contributor
Despite the hot and cold weather patterns, Ridgeline High School spring sports team managed to get off to pretty consistent starts.
Head coach Jeramie Maupin has an experienced team taking the diamond this spring. The Falcons return 11 letter winners and eight starters from last year’s team that finished fifth in the Greater Spokane League with a 9-9 record, 10-11 overall.
Key players for Ridgeline are seniors Easton Amend (third base / pitcher), Nathan Fitzpatrick, (first base / pitcher), Brennan Stevenson (first base / pitcher) and sophomores Caden Andreas (shortstop / pitcher), Ben Wartinger (pitcher / infield), Mikey Macall (outfield / infield), Jack Vigliotta (catcher / outfield) and Nolan Wohl (catcher / third base). Newcomers to watch are freshman Braxxton Barker (pitcher / outfield) and senior Kole LeGrant (outfield).
Maupin expects a lot from this group. Amend is the team’s leader on and off the field while Andreas “sets the tone both offensively and defensively.”
Macall “does a little bit of everything for us” while Fitzpatrick, Stevenson and Wartinger are poised to have breakout seasons on the mound and at the plate. Vigliotta and Wohl will play key roles behind the plate.
“There is a bunch of talent on this team which is always important, but familiarity and sense of team that the coaches and I have witnessed so far has been pretty cool,” Maupin said. “You couple that with the work ethic and drive these guys have and it could make for a pretty special spring.”
After an 0-3 start, the Falcons (34, 3-1 GSL) are winners of three of their last four games, including a sweep of Central Valley and split with University.
The good news for new Falcons head coach Danny White is his team returns four letter winners from last year, all of whom advanced to 3A state competition.
Juniors Carolyn Rose, Reagan Rothley and Kate Mulligan are back along with sophomore Sawyer Anderson. Rose finished tied for 35th overall, shooting an 89 in the first round and 88 in the second for a combined 177.
Rothley finished in a three-way tie for 53rd, shooting a 92 and 100 for a combined total of 192. Mulligan and Anderson competed on day one but didn’t make the cut for the second round.
Rose was selected to the All-GSL First Team with a league average of 86, fifth overall in the league.
White also said newcomers to watch are freshmen Chloe Hamilton and Morgan Quesnell, both of whom have competed in Washington state junior events.
The Falcons have an experienced team returning from last year’s squad that finished third in the GSL at 6-3, 8-5 overall and lost in the opening round of the District 8 playoffs.
Senior midfielder/forward Braylon Helm-Rentz led Ridgeline offensively
in 2023 with seven goals and six assists. Including fellow senior midfielder/ forwards Zac Olson and Griffyn Rider, the Falcons return three of the top-15 scorers in the GSL last season to the pitch.
Senior Junior Caden Thompson led the team defensively in 2023, with junior goalkeeper Brady McMahon giving up 12 goals in 14 games while posting three shutouts his first year in the net.
Thompson (defense) and HelmRenz (midfield) were All-GSL firstteam selections in 2023, with Olson named to the second team.
As of March 26, the Falcons were 5-2 overall, 1-0 in the GSL, posting nonleague wins over Everett, West Valley (Spokane) and Central Valley. Ridgeline opened league play with a 3-0 home win over Mead, followed by a 2-0 home win over Cheney on March 25.
Six players return from last year’s Falcons team that finished sixth in the GSL at 8-10, 8-12 overall, ending the season with a 4-2 run but a pair of losses in the playoffs to GSL champion Mt. Spokane and Kennewick’s Southridge High School.
Maggie Carvo and Ally Phillips are Ridgeline’s only seniors and the team’s captains. Carvo (infield / outfield) hit .468 last season with 11 home runs and 25 runs batted in. Also returning are
infielder Quincy Coder, who hit .458 with 26 RBIs in 2023, along with junior infielder / outfielder Lilly Triplett, .340 with three home runs, 12 RBIs and 19 runs scored as a freshman.
Head coach Alyssa Rasmussen said new players to watch are four starting freshman: Persais Triplett, Aaliyah Yeldon, Ada Case and Millie Dobyns.
“(We have a) young team, but full of fire to compete,” Rasmussen said.
Tennis – Boys
Four letter winners and four starters return for head coach Freddie Rehkow’s squad that finished 7-2 in the GSL, third place, and 9-4 overall in match play.
Sophomore Jackson Hieb is at No. 1 singles, with seniors Zander Palm (All-GSL honorable mention in 2023) at No. 2, Luke Pell at No. 3 and threeyear letter winner Cameron Rehkow at No. 4. Newcomers to watch in doubles play are Grant Brito along with juniors Marco Lopez and Jordan Lancaster.
“After losing seven starters off a 7-2 third place team in the GSL last year, and six regional qualifiers, we are young and very inexperienced,” Rehkow said. “We will rely heavily on our senior leadership, Zander Palm, Luke Pell, and Cameron Rehkow, and strong play from Jackson Hieb, to keep us competitive this year as we rebuild and try to get back to the success we’ve had in the past.”
As of March 26, the Falcons were out to a 3-0 start: two nonleague wins over Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy (4-3) and Shadle Park (7-0) and a 5-2 GSL win over Gonzaga Prep.
Tennis – Girls
Four starters and six letter winners return for the Falcons this spring. Head coach Russ Tarmann said Svetlana Wickham, Gianna Longo, Sophia Brinkman, and Prasidha Krishnaswamy will have key roles in the singles and doubles positions this year.
Newcomers include GSL JV singles winner Vivian Van Buren, with freshmen Stella Taylor and Maria Longo contributing along with Paige Van Buren, Elliott Edminster and Abby Lind. “Currently we are 3-0 in match play, but we know that the GSL is tough every year,” Tarmann said.
*New Location!
The Region’s best history museum! 2024 EXHIBITS & EVENTS
April 30th
“Mullan Military Road” Exhibit available to view at the museum.
May 3rd
Museum Hours Wednesday - Saturday 11 am - 4 pm
"All Fairs Led To Expo 74, Regional Fair History and the Expo Vision" Discover the history of Fairs in our region and learn about the World's Fair that came to Spokane.
May 31st, June 1 & 2nd
Mullan Military Road Conference
Where: Mirabeau Park Hotel Call the museum for more details.
Celebration of the Museum's 20th Anniversary!
More info to come.
October 1st - October 31st
"The American Revolutionary War Legacy"
A look back at the American revolution 250 years after.
November 9th
Admission
Age 7-17 $4
Age 18-54 $7
Age 55+ $6
Retired Military $6 Active Military Free
"On A Wing & A Prayer" A history of Felts Field is the presentation for the 20th Annual Heritage Program
Center Place Event Center 11:30 - 1:30
In four years at Central Valley High School, Amelia Hendricks has left an exceptional impact. The senior maintains a 4.0 grade point average and is a member of National Honor Society. She has contributed 49 hours of community service (well beyond the 15 hours required) toward projects like the Food Drive, Bear Nation Donation and presentations at local middle schools. Hendricks has participated in cheerleading for two years and serves as team captain. She also competed in tennis for two years. As a Link Leader, she has mentored three freshman students this school year. As part of HOSA Future Health Professionals, Hendricks earned fifth place at a state competition. She is also a volunteer math and reading instructor. Hendricks plans to enroll in the respiratory therapy program at Spokane Community College and pursue a career as a pediatric ICU nurse.
Easton Amend has been part of Falcon Nation’s increasing success on the regional and state sports’ stage. The Ridgeline senior is a three-sport letter-winner in football, basketball and baseball. He was a standout receiver on a Falcons’ football squad that advanced to the second round of the state playoffs this season and was named to the All Greater Spokane League first team, finishing with 45 catches for 490 yards and nine touchdowns. He is a threeyear starter in basketball earning All GSL honorable mention this season. His layup at the buzzer was the winning margin in a playoff win over Southridge. In baseball, Amend was second team All GSL as a sophomore and honorable mention as a junior. He maintains a 3.6 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society. He is also a Link Crew volunteer.
Rand Hatch was a junior at Central Valley High School when his family moved to Liberty Lake. He graduated from CV in 1972 and went on to earn a degree in education from Whitworth. After teaching and coaching for six years at Freeman, Hatch started a long career in real estate that included developing areas like Liberty Lake Village with his father, Jack. Hatch volunteered for a decade with Friends of Pavillion Park, served as vice chair and helped establish events like the Spokane Symphony concert and Fourth of July fireworks as summer staples. He also was part of the Special Olympics Polar Plunge fundraiser for 10 years and served on the board of Habitat for Humanity for three years. Rand and his wife Susan called Liberty Lake home for 30 years. They will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in July.
Splash Contributor
Golf: The Hallmark Green of Liberty Lake
One of the cornerstones that unites the community of the City of Liberty Lake is the sport of golf, where neighbors and families come together to share a few hours in each other’s company. It is a time to come together and build friendships and lasting memories. With over 2 million acres nationwide devoted to golf courses, and 8 percent of Liberty Lake’s total area dedicated to the lush greens and fairways, it’s clear that golf is an integral part of the city.
As the warm weather begins to creep in and the first signs of spring emerge, the opening season for golf is now upon us. It's an exciting time for Liberty Lake residents to dust off their clubs and prepare for another season of golfing adventures.
This picturesque 9-hole golf course offers a premier golfing experience whether you're an amateur or seasoned player, the well-maintained greens and challenging layout promise a delightful experience for golfers of all skill levels.
But Trailhead Golf Course isn't just about the course itself. The facility boasts an exceptional practice area, designed to help golfers improve their skills. The new state-of-the-art indoor Full Swing Golf Simulators provide a perfect way to enjoy golfing while measuring your ball impact and ball flight to help improve your game. While using The Sims, you’ll be able to relax with your friends and family and enjoy drinks and refreshments while waiting for your turn to take a swing.
The newly remodeled driving range and practice green will help you hone your skills in the crisp spring air. There are 14 mat hitting stalls now open seven days a week until late September. Inside last year’s remolded retail shop, you'll find the resources you need to perfect your swing and elevate your game in style. From new clubs to the perfect golf attire, the friendly staff are always on hand to offer guidance and ensure your time at Trailhead Golf Course is nothing short of exceptional.
Trailhead will be offering a Demo Day where the latest golf equipment will be on display. The Demo Days are free of charge with no obligation to buy any of the equipment. There are appointments available on their website at https://wa-libertylake2.civicplus. com/246/Golf.
Starting from the first of April, both women's and men's golf clubs will begin their activities, offering exclusive opportunities for their members to participate. Those who wish to join a club can visit the retail shop, where a golf professional will be available to provide assistance in the membership sign-up process.
MeadowWood Golf Course
MeadowWood Golf Course offers a remarkable 18-hole par-72 championship public golf course experience. Designed by architect Robert Muir Graves, this renowned course combines scenic beauty with challenging gameplay. With various tee options and exceptional facilities, including a driving range and a pro shop, MeadowWood caters to golfers of all skill levels.
Spokane County provides a range of discount passes and special promotions for golfers. Military members can enjoy reduced rates with the $20 Military Discount Pass. The $65 Discount Pass offers savings of $10-$12 per 18-hole round throughout the season. Frequent golfers can benefit from the Loyalty Pass, priced at $300, with significant savings of $19-$20 per 18-hole round. The county provides discounted twilight golf rates and a promotion waiving golf cart trail fees for social security disability beneficiaries. For more information on these discounts, visit Spokane County's Deals & Specials page.
When it comes to green fees, Spokane County offers inclusive pricing that covers all taxes. Prebooked 18-hole rounds at MeadowWood are priced at $52, with a reduced rate of $48 for walkins. 9-hole rounds are available for $32. Additionally, the county provides special rates for juniors, tournaments, and hotel passes. Discount passes are also available for adults, seniors, and military personnel, offering lower prices for both 18 and 9-hole rounds. Season passes for adults, seniors, and juniors provide unlimited play, and there are
specific rates for twilight golf, private cart fees, and other services.
For a detailed breakdown of pricing and policies, please visit Spokane County's Green Fees page at https:// www.spokanecounty.org/1323/ Green-Fees. Experience the splendor of MeadowWood Golf Course at an affordable price.
Liberty Lake Golf Course
Liberty Lake Golf Course is an 18hole championship public golf course that offers a fun and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. Players can expect to encounter white sand bunkers, large greens, and water hazards as they navigate through this marvelous golfing creation redesigned in 2008 by Rick Phelps. The course also features a grass tee driving range with targets and yardage indicators, as well as separate chipping and putting areas for players to hone their short game skills. After a round of golf, guests can enjoy great food and beverages at the newly remodeled clubhouse.
In addition to providing a worldclass golfing experience, Liberty Lake Golf Course offers a range of services to enhance players' enjoyment. The facility has a full-service pro shop where players can find all their golfing needs, from equipment and apparel to club fittings and repairs. PGA golf professionals are also available to provide personalized and group lessons to players of all ages and skill levels.
There are a variety of golfing deals and specials, including discount programs for military members, a general Discount Pass, and a Loyalty Pass. The Military Discount Pass is priced at $20 for active duty and retired/former military members, granting access to discounted green fees. The Discount Pass, costing $65 per person, offers savings of $10-$12 per 18-hole round across all courses, with the suggestion to play at least 7 rounds a year to make it worthwhile. The Loyalty Pass, priced at $300 per person, provides savings of $19-$20 per 18-hole
round all season at all courses, aimed at those playing 30+ rounds per season. Additionally, a twilight golf deal allows players to enjoy up to 9 holes for $25, two hours before sunset daily, with a junior rate of $15. There's also a promotion waiving golf cart trail fees for individuals receiving social security disability benefits who use private golf carts at Spokane County courses.
The green fees for the 2024 golf season regular rates, which include taxes, range from $48 for 18 holes to $15 for juniors playing 9 or 18 holes. Discounted rates for pass holders vary, with adult or senior discounts at $65, and military discounts at $20, offering reduced prices for 18 and 9-hole games. Loyalty passes are available at $300, offering even lower rates for adult and senior rounds. Season passes range from $250 for juniors to $2,400 for adults. Twilight rates and private cart fees are also offered, alongside a financial policy stating all green fees support golf course operations and improvements. For more detailed pricing and conditions, visit Spokane County's Green Fees page at https://www.spokanecounty. org/1323/Green-Fees.
Engaging in golf provides a unique chance for individuals to unwind, rejuvenate, and experience a profound sense of peace. Take a break from the hustle and bustle, equip yourself with a set of clubs, and explore the picturesque golf courses that Liberty Lake has to offer this spring.
Correction
In last month’s edition of The Lookout, it was mentioned that Joe Mann of the city’s Civil Service Commission graduated from the University of Alabama. This was incorrect. Mann is a proud alumnus of Auburn University.
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Known for both taking in stray cats and serving his country for dedication for decades, longtime Liberty Lake resident Charles Owens died December 30, leaving behind his wife, former longtime Liberty Lake Councilwoman Judi Owens.
Charles and Judi met late in life after both had been married, had children and divorced. They married in 1982, well after Charles had retired from the Air Force after a 20-year career. “It’s hard to put into words how much we loved each other,” his wife said. “He really was my knight in shining armor.”
He was born and raised in Pennsylvania. His parents separated when he was six and he was raised by his mother and his maternal grandparents. “After the separation, he never saw his dad again,” his wife said. “Ever. His grandfather was his role model.”
During high school Owens was very into sports. He played football, basketball and baseball. He even played in the South Penn Championship against Wilt Chamberlain. He lost, but would continue to play the sport for many years.
After he graduated high school, he found himself uncertain about what he should do next. He ended up enlisting in the Air Force in 1955, just after he graduated. “He hadn’t made up his mind and he and a buddy just went down one day and signed up,” she said. “He didn’t want to be a ground pounder. I just think it really appealed to him.”
When he finished basic training, he was asked where he wanted to be stationed. He asked to come to Spokane, but not on purpose, his wife said. “He put down Washington, thinking Washington, D.C.,” she said. “He was sent to Geiger.”
Owens quickly made his mark at Geiger Field. “Within the first three weeks, he was barred from all the day rooms,” she said. “He played pool and he was very good.”
He served his initial enlistment period and then was discharged. After only a few months, however, he signed back up and stayed. His wife said he worked in communications most of the time, a broad category that covered a lot. He was once tasked with
setting up the first telemetry bubble at Buckley Field in Denver, where he was responsible for the cryptography equipment. Later in his career he was non-commissioned officer in charge of the crypto account at the North American Air Defense Command in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He would refuse to talk about his work there, citing his security clearance, his wife said.
Stories have been told about Owens’ time in Vietnam. Beginning in 1968, he spent six months there as a forward air controller calling in air strikes. Then for the next 18 months he was a paymaster. He was stationed at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines and twice a month he would go to Vietnam to personally pay each member of his communications unit. He would travel with a briefcase full of cash handcuffed to his wrist, Judi said.
While Owens was a stickler for the rules, he also did what he could to help others. When he was in Vietnam there was a particular non-commissioned officer’s club that he liked to frequent. The rules stated that those inside had to remove their hats and if they didn’t, they had to buy a round of drinks for the house. Owens would often visit and deliberately not remove his hat, so he was “forced” to buy drinks for everyone.
"That was just the way it was," his wife said. "He would do that kind of thing."
He retired in 1975 and took a job with the Cenex Records Information
retired for good. During that time, he became known for his expertise with computer systems. He received several honors and awards and was named Civilian of the Year in 1994. “He was often called to one place or another,” his wife said. “The generals knew him.”
After Owens died, his wife said she heard from numerous people who worked with her husband and told her about the impact he had on them and their careers. “He kept people accountable,” she said. “He was good at following the rules. He knew the paperwork.”
His final retirement came just after Judi, a longtime employee at the Central Valley School District, was elected president of the Public School Employees of Washington. She said he was a great support during that time. “I was back and forth between Liberty Lake and Auburn every week for four years,” she said. “He kept the home fires burning.”
Service Center in Spokane. That’s where he met Judi, though at the time the two weren’t impressed with each other, she said. They were both computer operators for the company that handled all the accounting and records for local Cenex gas stations.
Judi said Owens hadn’t worked with a lot of women before and she had some bad experiences working with them. “I probably had a chip on my shoulder,” she said. “I had only ever worked with men. I was good at my job. I was a lot better than most of them.”
She only worked for Cenex for a year and then moved on to Rosauers, but Owens stayed for 11 years. The two reconnected later and began dating. The Cenex records center in Spokane closed in 1986 and Owens declined to move to Minneapolis to stay with the company. Owens was looking for work when he found a seasonal snow removal related job at Fairchild Air Force Base, where he managed a warehouse full of tools and equipment.
He was content to work six months, then spend the summer and fall playing golf, another longtime passion, his wife said. But when he reported back to work the following winter, things changed. Because he was, at heart, a computer guy, he created an electronic inventory of the warehouse. The Air Force liked his work so much, they offered him a computer job at the base hospital.
He worked as a civilian at Fairchild from the late 1980’s to 2008, when he
In retirement, Owens also turned his attention to feeding any animal that showed up in his yard. This included slicing apples for the deer, taking care of the feral cats and feeding the birds. “Nothing came by the house that didn’t get a meal,” she said. “More than one cat we acquired because he fed them when they came to the back door.”
The care he took for animals showed who he was as a person, his wife said. “He was very gruff on the outside, but he had a gentle heart,” she said. “He just took care of everybody. I very much miss him.”
Isolation forced by COVID and the neuropathy in his hands that forced him to give up golf affected his health. He grew weaker and one day last September his wife came home and found him on the floor, where he had fallen hours before. That started a cycle of repeated hospital admissions for multiple bouts of pneumonia.
Owens was on his fifth hospital stay at the end of December when Judi and their children made the decision that when he was discharged, they would take him home and make him comfortable. The doctors did not think he would recover, his wife said. But before that could happen, he died in the hospital.
“One of the last things he said to me was ‘I’m going to miss you,’” she said. “He knew.”
In addition to his wife, Owens is also survived by a son and two daughters, as well as four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
