The October 2013 Current

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NEWS

2 • OCTOBER 2013 Daily Special

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Staple on the board Williams began tenure with WVSD in 1983

By Craig Howard

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Tom Brokaw hosted his first broadcast of the NBC Nightly News the same year Jim Williams attended his inaugural meeting as a representative of the West Valley School District Board of Directors.

That was three decades ago, a time when Ronald Reagan was residing in the White House, Atari was the height of video game technology and “Gandhi” walked away with the Oscar for Best Picture.

In November, Williams will run in his ninth election since 1983. He will be the only candidate on the ballot for District 1, a familiar scenario for the native of Coeur d’Alene who has lived in the West Valley community with his wife, Gayle — a retired District 81 teacher — since 1977. The couple’s five children all earned diplomas from West Valley High School.

When Williams ran in 1983, it was for a two-year term to complete the tenure of another board member who had resigned.

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A Cup of Joe He has served with five superintendents over the years and won the distinction of being appointed to an advisory committee consisting of 100 board representatives from across the U.S. During his span with WVSD, Williams has run (and lost) a campaign to become a Spokane County Commissioner and was part of the original Board of Directors for the Spokane Public Facilities District that was formed in 1989 and championed the effort to build the Spokane Arena.

A neighbor of Millwood Mayor Dan Mork, Williams had already announced his candidacy for the Millwood Town Council in 1983 when a friend recommended he run for the school board. He abandoned the bid for council but could

See WILLIAMS, page 4

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The Current

4 • OCTOBER 2013

NEWS

WILLIAMS Continued from page 2

not remove his name from the ballot and ultimately lost by only a handful of votes.

He wound up defeating two opponents in his campaign to join a WVSD board that he describes as “fractured” at the time.

Williams, 73, is retired after working in a number of fields, including the restaurant business and with Sterling Bank. The Current sat down with West Valley’s venerable leader shortly after the start of the 2013-14 school year to talk about a variety of topics, including standardized tests, levy support and travel schedules in the Great Northern League.

Q.

First of all, congratulations on 30 years with the West Valley School District. That’s quite a feat, especially considering you have to run for the office every four years. What do you think you’ve learned about being part of a school board that you didn’t know before 1983?

A.

School boards are an interesting entity. They are the largest collection of elected officials in the country. We have almost 300 districts in Washington, that’s 1,500 right there. School boards are not management boards, they’re policy boards for oversight.

Our role is not to run the district, it’s to see that it is well run. The only person we directly hire is the superintendent. When I first went on the board, that was not the case. The board was running the district.

We had a split board. I was one of the two on one side, so we couldn’t accomplish much.

Q. Did you run that first year on any sort of specific platform?

A. I ran on the idea of trying to mend differences. We’d almost had a strike the year before with the teachers that was settled at the last minute. The superintendent wouldn’t even speak to three of the board members. It was a bad situation. The board had definitely not defined their role. They wanted to get rid of the superintendent and voted 3-2 not to renew his contract.

I’m sitting there, brand new on the board, thinking, “What have I gotten myself into?” These were tough times, but when you’re in tough times, you buckle down and do what you have to do. I could have quit and walked away but that wasn’t the thing to do. We eventually got some new board members. We got a new superintendent and just went from there.

Q. You’ve been the senior board member for a while now. How do you see your role with this current collection of leaders?

A. I’m kind of the historian, in a way.

The last dozen years, this board has been solid, dedicated, we have done amazing

CURRENT PHOTO BY CRAIG HOWARD

Jim Williams has served on the West Valley School Board of Directors for the past 30 years.

This November, he will appear on the ballot for the ninth time since 1983. things as a board, not as individuals. We set the tone, we set the policies. The thing is, we’ve got some very smart people in the school district, and when they come up with an idea, we should consider it. That’s how we started things like the City School and Contract Based Education. We get all the credit for that stuff, but it’s all these people in the district who are doing wonderful work.

Q. What is the board’s role in facilitating new ideas within the district?

A. I try to listen more than anything else. I don’t see myself as the guy who’s going to be instigating a bunch of new ideas.

When new ideas emerge, whether they’re from the administration or a board member, I’m there to say, “Been there, done that, didn’t work,” or, “This could really work.” So, just like we try to support our staff, board members support each other.

We don’t have many arguments. It’s important to have a team. The vast majority of all our decisions are 5-0.

Q. Last February, WVSD passed a maintenance and operations levy and a technology levy with each getting more than 55 percent of the vote. What do you think has been the key as far as the district generating support among voters for these funding initiatives?

A. The community support has been amazing. I think probably the biggest key has been stability. This is a very solid community. Many of the people who live here graduated from West Valley. We also don’t have board members with an agenda. I’ve

been on boards where that wasn’t the case.

One of the biggest roles of a board member is advocacy. We work with the legislators, particularly local legislators. I think the community wants good schools. I, for one, would rather pay higher taxes than have poor schools.

Q. Speaking of ballot issues, West Valley is one of the few local school districts to pass a capital facilities bond in the last decade or more. In 2004, voters approved $35 million in funding to rebuild West Valley High School and renovate several other buildings. What do you remember about that campaign?

A. Well, it was the first one we’d passed since 1987. We needed to do something with the high school. You look at it now, it works well; it’s a good building. We were able to take the old building and remodel it. We made (former WVSD Superintendent) Dave Smith our project manager, and he was amazing. He recognized that there were a lot of people in the community that had attended the old West Valley and even Argonne Junior High, the original high school. He had an appreciation for the history and incorporated that into the new school.

Q. Why don’t we see more candidates running for the school board?

A. There’s no way to really tell. If we were in crisis in our district like we were in the early ’80s, there would be a lot more interest. I’d like to see more people running for the board. I’m not happy with the fact that no one else has been on the

ballot all these years. It says there are not a lot of people who want to do this work but, really, what’s more important than education?

Q. Going into the 2011-12 school year, your district faced some serious budget challenges. Residents were invited to a series of open houses that had great attendance and really helped form some of the priorities for the budget. How would you characterize community involvement generally in West Valley?

A. I was happy that so many people turned out to talk about some tough budget decisions. Fortunately, we’ve been able to restore a lot of that funding. In general, though, we have school board meetings and no one shows up. We’ve tried to run public hearings, and we still don’t get that many people there. That was a good effort you mentioned. We’re elected to represent the citizens of the district. I remember the late Bob McCaslin (longtime state senator), one of his favorite sayings was, “I’m our leader; tell me where you want to go.”

Q. The WASL (Washington Assessment of Student Learning) was around for many of the years you’ve been on the school board. It’s not now, although there are other tests that gauge student learning. What’s your opinion on standardized tests?

A. I think it’s important to have some kind of standardized method of testing.

I was never a big fan of the WASL, but I could see where something like that was necessary. It bothers me to some extent when we’re comparing one district to another with this. Each district has things they’re excellent at, other things they’re confident with and those things will vary a bit. We are not in competition with any district. We work together, particularly locally, on many things. I do think it’s important to gauge how schools are doing, and I think it’s important to be realistic and acknowledge when we’re not doing as good as we could.

Q. What about the transition of West Valley High School from the Greater Spokane League to the Great Northern League several years ago? Before, you had great rivalries with schools like East Valley and Central Valley, now your sports teams are traveling all over the map, competing against schools like Colville and Pullman. Does West Valley miss the GSL? A. Travel is a big problem with that.

In one sense, I think it’s been good for us because a school like West Valley has a tough time competing against some of those GSL schools, but we’re not running pro sports teams here. This is for studentathletes to get opportunities. It’s nice to get a win, sure, but we try to teach a lot more than just winning. We miss not having those rivalries. I’ve been around long enough where I miss those old days, but smart enough to realize that things have changed.

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 5

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The Current

6 • OCTOBER 2013

ABOUT THIS SECTION WHO DID WE ASK? The Current contacted 24 local candidates in September asking for responses, in writing, to a questionnaire that included basic resume information and five interview questions. The candidates contacted are those facing opposition in the November 2013 election for elected leadership positions serving the city of Spokane Valley, city of Millwood, town of Rockford, East Valley School

District and Spokane Valley Fire Department.

WHO RESPONDED? The Current received responses from 22 candidates, representing all but one race. Candidates from Town of Rockford Council Position No. 1, Steven Lyle Christman and David Thompson, did not respond. Some respondents chose not to submit a photo or respond to all the questions.

WHAT WERE THE GROUND RULES? Given

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a “job application” theme, the candidates were given a total of 150 words to use at their discretion among questions in the “resume” portion (the breakout boxes that contain candidate bios) and 600 words to spread as desired among the five interview questions (displayed in Q&A format).

HOW WERE THE WRITTEN RESPONSES EDITED? The candidates responses were ed-

ited slightly and only for consistency of style and grammar. No words were substituted, added or deleted.

WHAT ABOUT LIBERTY LAKE? An identical process was used for three competitive Liberty Lake City Council races and are printed in the October issue of The Current’s sister publication, The Splash, and can be viewed at www. libertylakesplash.com.

Mayor of Millwood What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Millwood mayor?

My experience with our city and our local government. I understand how our city operates, how we manage our finances, resources and personnel, and our desire as a city to hear and serve as many of our citizens as possible. I also understand how we interact and with other local jurisdictions and agencies (the county, Sheriff, fire district, library and city of Spokane Valley) and the responsibilities, contracts and commitments that come from these relationships.

What concerns about the city of Millwood prompt you to want to be involved?

I have two specific concerns: 1. Maintaining and planning for the future of our roads, sidewalks, parks and water and sewer systems in a way that makes sense for our city, and 2. Developing a stable commercial/business presence along Argonne Road and Trent Avenue.

What opportunities for the city of Millwood excite you about service as a mayor?

Our potential to enhance the city for our residents and businesses. We need to continue working with our local business and commercial property owners to address issues that hinder their ability to develop or maintain a business in Millwood. We also need to continue enhancing our city’s park and public spaces in ways that bring our residents the greatest benefit.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

My service and commitment to our city. I served first on the city planning commission for six years and then as a councilman for eight years. I and my family truly enjoy living in Millwood.

Being involved in local government has given me an understanding that the actions you do or don’t take today will have

KEVIN M. FREEMAN AGE: 46 FAMILY: Wife: Lisa; Son: Nathan (16); Daughter: Abbie (13) CURRENT OCCUPATION: Principal hydrogeologist and Spokane location manager, ARCADIS U.S. Inc.; owner, Inland Earth Sciences LLC; councilman, city of Millwood RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Eight years as city of Millwood councilman; six years as member of city of Millwood Planning Commission RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: BS geology, University of Idaho; MS hydrology, University of Idaho COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Member of West Valley High School Band Boosters; past president, Seth Woodard Elementary PTO HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Gardening, golfing, whitewater rafting

a definite impact on tomorrow. I participate in our city government because I want Millwood to be a great place for all of us to live, now and in the future. Millwood has potential to be better than it is now for its residents and businesses. The mayor needs to be a person who wants to develop and enhance our city in line with the wishes of the citizens. I feel my service to the city has given me an opportunity to hear and understand those wishes.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

Theodore Roosevelt at Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park.

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Millwood mayor?

Did not answer.

DENNIS HAMLIN

What concerns about the city of Millwood prompt you to want to be involved?

Did not answer.

AGE: Did not answer.

What opportunities for the city of Millwood excite you about service as a mayor?

My visions for Millwood would include a parking lot area for or wonderful park. I will work on lowering water rates so that people can water their lawns and gardens.

I will work with the businesses in Millwood to improve their signage and visibility to promote their business in our city.

A monthly newsletter to all would include three yea or nay questions. This would allow me to hear from those residents unable to attend City Hall meetings. I will represent you and the majority vote to the City Council. I see a better way for all.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I will be a full-time mayor with a cell phone on Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. I will work on reducing the overhead cost in City Hall.

MILLWOOD

CANDIDATE FORUM

FAMILY: Did not answer.

No photo submitted

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Did not answer.

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: For the past 34 years, I have owned corporations, partnership and sole proprietor. I have managed employees and overseen government and city contracts. My first business was in 1980, and I installed the first wind turbine in Washington state, feeding the first electricity into Washington Water Power’s grid. In 2000, I traveled to Mexico with the Washington state mission to Mexico. Along with Gov. Locke and Ralph Munro, secretary of state, and 26 others. My part was to speak on plugging in the wind. My last business was an asphalt construction management company, working large corporation.

RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Did not answer.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Did not answer.

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Did not answer.

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15 WHERE: Millwood City Hall Council Chambers, 9103 E. Frederick Ave., Millwood INVITED PARTICIPANTS: Millwood mayoral candidates HOSTED BY: Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

Did not answer.

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 7

Spokane Valley City Council, Position 1 What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley City Council member?

My strong business background, both as an employer and employee, leading to an understanding of Spokane Valley issues and how to effectively address them.

What concerns about the city of Spokane Valley prompt you to want to be involved?

Four years ago, the city was moving in a direction of more government regulations and taxation with little inclination to listen to concerned citizens. It had been tagged with a reputation of being unfriendly to business. With the election of new council members, that direction has gradually changed to where the city has become much more welcoming to business. Regulation has become realistic, and the new welcoming attitude has generated increasing business activity.

What opportunities for the city of Spokane Valley excite you about service as a Council member?

The possibilities for revitalizing Sprague Avenue through development of Balfour Park in conjunction with a new library. Creating a City Hall which will house municipal functions including our police, while channeling the rent we currently pay into a tangible asset. Business development built around the Valley’s unique capabilities to be a central place for sporting activities, medical facilities and retirement resources, just to name a few. Being a contributing part of all that is truly exciting.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

Philosophy of government. I strongly believe that city government provides first for the safety of its citizens; that means an effectively and properly staffed police force. Then come roads and the infrastructure necessary for conduct of business and living. This is accomplished by a lean government with tightly controlled budgets and effective management. My opponent has voiced an inclination toward enlarging government

ROD HIGGINS AGE: 71 FAMILY: Wife, Gloria; daughter, Shannon, married to a Naval officer; son, Jason, an officer in the Army CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Executive positions with three mining companies; executive director, Nevada Mining Association; small business owner; small business consultant; U.S. Army officer.

RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: BS degree in finance, University of Idaho; Merrill Lynch Account Executive school; College for Financial Planning; Society for Human Resources, Professional of Human Resources qualification.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: El Katif Shrine, Elks Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars (Life Member), American Legion, Citizens’ Alliance for Property Rights, National Rifle Association (Life Member), Spokane Valley Planning Commission HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Golf, economics, reading, walking

and increasing taxes. The Valley currently runs very efficiently without increasing either.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

Thomas Jefferson, at the Mirabeau Park Hotel. I’d like to thank him for his foresight and perseverance in making the Louisiana Purchase and commissioning the Lewis and Clark expedition to explore and catalog what we bought, that is now our home.

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley City Council member?

I love our city! Growing up in Greenacres as a proud CV Bear supported by everyone from my school bus driver to my teachers to local businesses, I understood at an early age how true community values its citizens. Being a Spokane Valley City Council member will provide me with opportunities to give back to our community through positive, engaging leadership with all citizens.

What concerns about the city of Spokane Valley prompt you to want to be involved?

I believe our City Council should be more reflective of our increasingly diverse community. As a leader who advocates for embracing our differences, meaningful citizen engagement and seeing the potential for leadership among more young women and men, people of diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds, and those who want to have a chance to lead, I will be open minded, learn as much as I can and make decisions with community input. Compassion for others is at the forefront of my lifework. Seeing the perspective of the human beings around me — we often don’t know what someone has gone through.

From loss of a job to behavioral health issues to struggling to balance working and being there for family, everyone is dealing with something. I believe the City Council is key in setting the tone of the city, and I want to be involved to make Spokane Valley a city that values our citizens and governs with that thought in mind always.

What opportunities for the city of Spokane Valley excite you about service as a Council member?

Excited about incredible organizations like Greater Spokane Meals on Wheels, SCOPE, Washington Drug Free Youth, Spokane Valley Partners and Healing Communities for Veterans — just to name a few that make a difference in the lives of our citizens every day, I believe there are opportunities for increased utilization of social services through referral and knowledge of “what is out there.”

Serving as a City Council member will allow me to share the connections I have with resources that our community has to help our citizens in need or provide opportunities for those who want to give back. This is not about spending more; this is about working together.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I believe that citizen engagement is critical to effective government, provision of public safety, infrastructure and economic development. City government has specific areas to administrate within a community, but I believe that

LINDA THOMPSON AGE: 60 FAMILY: Husband, Richard; children, Katee and Jack Claros, Nate and Laura Thompson; granddaughters, Jaylee (3) and Aubree (1) Claros CURRENT OCCUPATION: Executive director, Greater Spokane Substance Abuse Council (GSSAC) RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: 20 years of nonprofit management focused on public policy, legislative engagement, resource development, cultural respect, fiscal management and community organizing; 20 years of financial industry experience; seven-year appointee on Governor’s Council on Substance Abuse; and Spokane Valley Police/Sheriff’s Office Citizen Academy graduate RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Masters in organizational leadership, Gonzaga; BA general studies and public relations certificate, Eastern Washington University; Central Valley High graduate COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Current combined Spokane Valley Park and Library steering committee member, 20year Central Valley schools volunteer, 13year founding member of the Washington Association for Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention, and 12-year Boy Scouting volunteer (Eagle Scout mom) HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Refurbishing yard sale treasures and home improvement projects City Council members should be among the strongest voices to advocate for schools, creating an environment where businesses that pay a good working wage want to locate and thrive, and helping citizens feel they have a role to play in their city. We are the city we are because of the great people that live and work here. I want Spokane Valley to be known as the place to be!

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

I would enjoy treating Trudi Inslee to the melt-in-your-mouth pancakes at the Cottage Café. Sharing a meal and talking woman to woman about what matters for our children and grandchildren, I believe we would find we have a lot on common. Oh, and she could bring her husband along if she’d like.

The Current

8 • OCTOBER 2013

Spokane Valley City Council, Position 4 What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley City Council member?

Diverse background: My leadership training as an Eagle Scout and Army officer, my 27 years of collaborative problemsolving and management in the electronics industry and my experience working with a wide-variety of people to solve community problems as a pastor has prepared me well for the role of City Council member.

What concerns about the city of Spokane Valley prompt you to want to be involved?

I want to help make sure all residents live in safe neighborhoods, drive on excellent and safe streets, while striving for lower taxes and smaller government. Spokane Valley has always been a great place to live, work and raise families. I want to help keep it that way while stimulating economic growth.

What opportunities for the city of Spokane Valley excite you about service as a Council member?

The most important issue is making decisions in 2014 and 2015 about garbage pickup and disposal for the city. I am fascinated by the complexity and details involved. I want to help make those decisions using these criteria: benefit residents and businesses while keeping fees the same or less; continue giving residents and businesses the freedom to opt out of curbside pickup; support the goal of continuing to be a lower-cost, contract city; and it would be great if fees paid by residents and businesses stayed within the city.

Another important issue is funding growth of our police department so it can meet the needs of our growing population, citizen concerns for a rise in car thefts and other crimes, new challenges of legalized marijuana, and infiltration by out-of-state gangs.

Our city’s streets are excellent! I am excited about studying our pavement preservation and street maintenance programs so that I can contribute to policy-making that will keep those programs funded and effective.

Parks are an important part of our city’s infrastructure because they contribute to our high quality of life. I want to help grow the infrastructure into the future by setting policies that broaden our tax base, rather than raise taxes, to pay for it.

It is important that our growth be funded by economic development rather than raising taxes and fees or adding new taxes and fees. We need to deregulate business as much as possible and look for creative ways to attract new businesses and help existing businesses prosper.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

The incumbent has been in office for

ED PACE AGE: 66 FAMILY: Wife, Thuan; daughters, Chrissy (44), Carolyn (38); sons, Eddy (30), Vinh (21) CURRENT OCCUPATION: Conservative Christian pastor on the staff of Redeemer Lutheran Church RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: U.S. Army officer; 27-year electronics industry career, including production supervision and product management; Scout troop organizer and leader; pastor; founder and leader of a community youth theater group; founder and manager of the Chewelah Farmer’s Market RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Training: Army Officer Candidate School; Hewlett-Packard management training program; church transformational leadership; clinical pastoral education.

Education: MDiv in pastoral leadership, Trinity Lutheran Seminary; BA in English, Eastern Washington University; two-year certificate in electronics technology, Foothill College COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Leader of Redeemer’s healing prayer ministry and prayer-walk community outreach; active in several conservative political groups

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley City Council member?

A. Six years as councilman and four as deputy mayor.

B. Native son/resident of Spokane Valley with history of involvement in community, business and family.

What concerns about the city of Spokane Valley prompt you to want to be involved?

A. To ensure and maintain the financial posture and integrity of the local government.

B. To contribute to the City of Spokane Valley as an individual with experience working and raising a family in Spokane Valley, ensuring for public safety and maintaining the services and requirements of the state of Washington for the citizens of our community.

What opportunities for the city of Spokane Valley excite you about service as a Council member?

A. Street preservation projects and transportation management; B. City of Spokane Valley’s record to date of contracting outside for services such as street and park maintenance, etc., thus saving the citizens and the city revenues for other needed purposes; C. Working with the Spokane County Sheriff and the Spokane Valley Police Department to maximize public safety for our city; D. Collaborating and being involved with the Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Services (SCRAPS).

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Gardening, reading, dogs and cats, being a grandparent

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

Experience in local business and industry for a lifetime, ensuring familiarity with people, places and regulations.

10 years. He regularly calls for tax increases rather than looking for ways to be more efficient. It is time for a change to conservative leadership that emphasizes priority-based budgeting: public safety, road maintenance and infrastructure development. Instead of raising taxes, I want to grow our city’s revenue by attracting job-producing businesses.

My background and experience will offer a fresh voice on the City Council while remaining grounded in conservative principles and dedicated to representing all residents and businesses.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

Henry Ford, industrialist. We’d have a brown bag lunch as Mr. Ford takes me

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

Steve Jobs. We would eat up on Skyline Boulevard overlooking Silicon Valley while brainstorming how to attract some of the high-tech and biotech businesses to Spokane Valley.

GARY SCHIMMELS AGE: 75 FAMILY: Wife, Myrna; five children and eight grandchildren CURRENT OCCUPATION: Ten years current Spokane Valley city councilman, position 4; deputy mayor, four years; Consolidated Irrigation District 19 board member, 33 years RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Retired; 40 years in water, sewer, road and building construction; 15 years as small business owner/operator in construction and locksmith businesses RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: College at EWU, self taught/trained COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Spokane County Wastewater Committee; Spokane County Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC); city of Spokane Solid Waste Liaison Board; Spokane Transit Authority (STA) board; STA Performance Monitoring and External Relations Committee; Spokane Regional Transportation Committee (SRTC); SRTC Management Review subcommittee; co-chair, building committee, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Otis Orchards; Knights of Columbus 4th Degree HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Refurbishing Model T Fords, mechanics, reading, spending time with children and grandchildren

on a tour of his Model T plant, showing me the first mechanized assembly line in the automobile industry and explaining the finer points of his automobiles.

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 9

CarverFarms.com

www.

Family Fun on the farm

Available Weekends Beginning October 5th: Pop corn, caramel corn & caramel apples, plus free hayrides in our large, nine-acre pumpkin field (11 am - 4 pm, weather permitting) Available daily 9 am to 5 pm: U-pick gourds; mini, sugar & large pumpkins; winter squash; pop corn; corn stalks; onions; cabbage & beets

daily 9 am - 5 pm 509-226-3602 Open Accepting Visa and MC 1/2 mile north of Trent at 9105 N. Idaho Rd. (Newman Lake area)

2nd Annual Open House

“Wellness is our passion, life enrichment is our goal”

Spokane Valley Fire Department Training Center

2411 N. Pioneer Ln.

Saturday • October 12th Hot Dogs & Drinks Provided!

10:00 am – Introductions & Rappelling from Training Tower 11:00 am – Vehicle Extrication Demonstration 11:30 am – Medstar Helicopter Landing Noon – Mako the Arson Dog Demonstration 12:30 – Firefighter Combat Course Challenge 1:30 – Fire Attack Demonstration 2:30 – Meet and Greet For more information, please contact Fire Fighter Scott Whitaker 509-981-7995



  • Skilled Nursing • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech-language Therapy • Medical Social Worker • Home Health Aides 10428 E. 9th Ave. Spokane Valley, WA 99206

Phone: 509-321-9050 Fax: 509-924-3343

www.SHFI.com Family owned and operated since 1949

The Current

10 • OCTOBER 2013

Spokane Valley City Council, Position 5 What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley City Council member?

The one thing that qualifies me for the position of City Council is: common sense.

What concerns about the city of Spokane Valley prompt you to want to be involved?

We must continue to provide basic services to our citizens such as public safety, street preservation, infrastructure and parks. Services that attract new businesses and jobs. Policies and ordinances that contribute to the total welfare of our community. We must listen to our citizens and respond to their priorities for service and their vision for the future. In order to accomplish our goals, we need to live within our means and be accountable for the tax dollars we are provided.

We cannot become a credit card city.

What opportunities for the city of Spokane Valley excite you about service as a Council member?

The opportunities are bountiful, such as: Balfour Park with the new library; Sullivan Bridge completion; road preservation; and providing the necessary personnel for a safe city.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

The main thing that separates me from other candidates is my integrity, honesty and experience.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

In the past tense, I would like to have lunch with Harry S. Truman — and eat at Donna’s.

SPOKANE VALLEY

CANDIDATE FORUM

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16 WHERE: CenterPlace at Mirabeau Point Park auditorium, 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley INVITED PARTICIPANTS: Spokane Valley City Council candidates (four races) HOSTED BY: Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce

CHUCK HAFNER AGE: 81 FAMILY: Married 60 years with two daughters and four grandchildren CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Central Valley School Board; City of Spokane Valley Council; U.S. Air Force; principal of Mead, University and Central Valley high schools; director of secondary education, Central Valley School District; vice president and general manager of Appleway Equipment Leasing; board member of the Spokane County SCOPE program; board chairman of the Spokane Transit Authority; vice-chair of the Spokane Regional Health District; 911 board; chairman of the committee to restore Crime Check RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Rogers High School; BA and master’s degrees from Eastern Washington University and advanced studies University of Washington COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Regional director for the Boy Scouts of America, PTAs and many others HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Golfing, boating, RVing and fishing

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley City Council member?

For many years, I have heard people say that they wish younger people would get involved in politics. I think my age gives me a viewpoint on items that will match up with the concerns that my generation has. I’ve grown up taking an evidence-based approach to problems, and I hope to move that forward when I serve on the council.

What concerns about the city of Spokane Valley prompt you to want to be involved?

I think that we have a crime problem.

While I am aware that we do investigate property crimes, when I had my office garage burgled and I called crimecheck, I was not given the impression that they cared, nor did they offer to send anyone out to collect evidence. We had footprints from dust, entry marks from tools, drag marks where items were pulled away, probably fingerprints as well. We’ll never know about the fingerprints since no one ever took any. In an unrelated event, about a month later after installing a security system, we had our alarm go off. My father reached the office before the police did, driving in from Greenacres. When I reviewed the video surveillance system we had installed, I noted that the police sent in my father first and followed afterwards. I take exception to this method of clearing a building where an alarm went off.

What opportunities for the city of Spokane Valley excite you about service as a Council member?

Sitting in on council meetings and watching the online videos of said meetings, I have been very impressed with the level of community engagement we have there. I hope to be part of that. I also look forward to having a voice on the council that will reflect on the new technologies we bring to our city and help balance the security and privacy implications that new technologies bring us.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

DONALD MORGAN JR. AGE: 28 FAMILY: Fiancée, Molly Gage; sisters, Frances and Katherine Morgan; parents, Don and Violet Morgan CURRENT OCCUPATION: Financial adviser at Independent Wealth Connections, based in Spokane Valley RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: My history includes data analysis and financial planning, along with various small IT roles.

RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: I went to college at St. Thomas More in Texas and North Idaho College.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Member of Civil Air Patrol, mentor for their Cyber Patriots team HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Computer security, Makerspaces such as Spokane Create!, amateur radio (KF7RVV), science fiction books, games and conventions.

Helping my father start and grow his small business over the past few years has given me the opportunity to see the types of regulatory constraints that a new business must deal with today. I think that experience is something that can help me maintain a better balance between the need for business regulation and the freedom of business owners to actually run their business.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

Jeri Ellsworth is one of my modern-day heroes, a self-taught computer chip designer. If we were meeting locally, I’d say lunch at the Thai Kitchen on Pines.

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 11

Spokane Valley City Council, Position 7 What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley City Council member?

I’ve studied the issues and challenges facing our city for the last few years by attending City Council meetings on a regular basis. The one thing I believe best qualifies me to be a council member is my ability to listen to all sides of an issue before making up my mind. I think the citizens of our city deserve to be heard on issues facing us and want their elected officials to carefully weigh all opinions and views and then apply a large dose of common sense in their decision making.

What concerns about the city of Spokane Valley prompt you to want to be involved?

I think there are three major concerns in our city that need to be addressed. I want to be involved in offering ideas and solutions to these challenges.

First and foremost is public safety.

It is our city’s responsibility to provide basic safety for all citizens. This means planning ahead and providing sustainable revenues year after year in the budgeting process. As a city, we currently contract with the Spokane County Sheriff ’s Department to provide the level of service in law enforcement to our citizens. For a number of years, we have not budgeted the revenue needed to provide enough deputy sheriff coverage for our city. We currently have the same number of deputies in the field that we had when our city incorporated in 2003. The deputies we do have ar doing a tremendous job for our citizens with the manpower they have. We need more deputies and, if I am elected, I will make this my highest priority for our city. We can do better.

My second major concern is to spend taxpayers’ dollars wisely. Our city needs to continue to be fiscally responsible with taxpayer dollars. We must live within our means and prioritize our needs from wants. All city projects are important to some people, but we don’t have the revenues to accomplish every want.

My third concern is economic development in the city of Spokane Valley. I want to continue the tremendous gains our city has made in the area of attracting new businesses to our city. By streamlining our permit process and again becoming “business friendly,” permits have increased dramatically this year over last year. However, we still have far too many empty buildings and offices throughout our city. In past years, our city has used outside agencies to promote our city with limited success. We need to continue to make economic development a high priority.

BILL BATES AGE: 75 FAMILY: Wife, Kathy; daughters, Georgia, Jacqueline, Patricia, Lynnea; and son, Stephen CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired Rosauers Supermarket executive RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Supermarket manager, vice president of retail supermarket operations for 26 Rosauers stores RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Graduated West Valley High School, attended Whitworth College COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Currently chairman, City of Spokane Valley Planning Commission; president, SCOPE board of directors (Sheriff’s Community Oriented Policing Effort) HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Reading, bicycling, big-time fan of Seahawks football and Gonzaga basketball What opportunities for the city of Spokane Valley excite you about service as a Council member?

I’m excited about the positive direction our city has been going over the last four years. Our operating annual budgets have been trimmed to little or no increases while not cutting services to our citizens.

In fact, many services have been increased and streamlined. Roads have been resurfaced throughout our city, and we have a sustainable road preservation program in the city budget.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I believe my leadership experience in local business, my time studying the challenges facing our city, and my years of service on the Planning Commission of this city have prepared me to be an effective and positive City Council member. I will hit the ground running, and I welcome the challenge.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

I would love to have lunch with the great NFL football coach, Vince Lombardi. I think he was a great gentleman, coach and tremendous motivator. Look what he did with the Packers. We would most certainly have pizza for lunch outdoors.

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley City Council member?

I feel I bring the voice of working families to this council. This recession has put many of our families in a precarious financial position, especially when the costs of goods and services continue to escalate without an increase in personal revenue for families already having a difficult time maintaining their standard of living. I go into much greater detail concerning my candidacy on my website, www.votebeaulac.com.

What concerns about the city of Spokane Valley prompt you to want to be involved?

I want to make sure the Spokane Valley continues to be a city that people want to live in. This can be accomplished by making sure government lives within its means. We need to preserve our neighborhoods and make sure we maintain our infrastructure; if we do that, the private sector will provide the employment. I have a sense of pride in this city and want to make sure Spokane Valley does not deteriorate in any way.

What opportunities for the city of Spokane Valley excite you about service as a Council member?

Spokane Valley has many opportunities for success. One thing that should excite everyone in Spokane Valley is that the Spokane Industrial Park is constantly expanding its employment opportunities, and many of these new jobs are living-wage jobs. I would make sure that this area of Spokane Valley would be allowed to prosper by promoting and encouraging businesses to move to the Spokane Industrial Park whenever possible. We also have a fantastic resource in Sheriff Knezovich, and we should utilize his ideas for reducing crime in Spokane Valley. It is imperative the citizens in Spokane Valley feel safe, and to do this it is imperative the bond between the Sheriff ’s Department and Spokane Valley is never jeopardized.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I feel the main difference between me and my opponent is the fact that I work full time. The present demographics of the Spokane Valley council lacks council members that work full time, and it is important for working families to be represented on this council. Working families face different problems, and their views deserve a voice. Both my wife and I work full time, and we face the same issues many families face, such as education, the upcoming healthcare mandate and maintaining our property values and neighborhoods. These factors and others would enter into any decision

FRED BEAULAC AGE: 61 FAMILY: Wife, Jayne, married 36 years; son, Jeff, age 28 CURRENT OCCUPATION: Operations manager/safety director for Hatfield Enterprizes, a long-haul flatbed trucking company located in Spokane Valley. I started with Hatfield as a dispatcher 12 years ago.

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: I spent five and a half years on the Spokane Valley Planning Commission and was appointed by three different councils. I am extremely familiar with the goals and policies of Spokane Valley.

RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Tustin Union High School; Orange Coast College major, aviation management; Cal State Fullerton major, geography COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Have lived in Spokane Valley since 1991 and have kept current on all issues involving Spokane Valley. I was part of committee that designed the neighborhood chapter for Spokane Valley Comp Plan.

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Golf, travel, reading and spending time with family and friends I would be making as a member of council.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

The one person I would want to have lunch with would be my dad. My dad passed away about two weeks after his first grandson was born. It would be my wish for my dad to have lunch with myself and my son, Jeff. Jeff is now 28 and going to school in Olympia. My dad traveled a lot when I was younger, but he never got to know Spokane, so I would love to show him what this community has to offer. My dad was a people person and worked his whole life in sales, and for him to meet his grandson and see what he has accomplished would be something that would mean more to me than anything. We might even talk a little baseball because all three of us developed a love of the game. This lunch would take place at Dave’s Bar and Grill in the Valley, and we would be waited on by the King of Swing, the best bartender ever.

The Current

12 • OCTOBER 2013

Mayor of Rockford What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Rockford mayor?

The one thing that qualifies me for the position of Rockford’s mayor is my knowledge. Through training and networking, I have learned how towns operate and sources to “get the money.” This could be by mentioning a need for a service truck or a police car for traffic control. Being at the right place at the right time and know who to ask the questions is key. Another town has probably experienced the same issue or incident, so I always ask for “free” advice.

What concerns about the town of Rockford prompt you to want to be involved?

I want to be involved in the mayor position again as there are several infrastructure projects that have started that I would like to see finished (sidewalks, streets, wastewater treatment plant updates). I also want to work with the town’s youth and their community involvement. They have many talents and creativity that should be utilized and will be our future leaders! I also want to be a part of fixing the town’s financial situation which has been going on for over five years or so without raising rates anymore than necessary to cover expenses.

What opportunities for the town of Rockford excite you about service as a mayor?

I am excited about the volunteers who have saved the town money, whether it be manning the city hall, mowing the parks or being a part of our community organizations. It will be exciting to see economic development happen with the portion of the Palouse Scenic Byway going through town with its amenities as well as the proposed senior housing project.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

The main thing that separates me from my opponent is my community involvement and that I am only interested in the welfare of the community, not for a personal agenda. I enjoy everything I do in our town in every way, and I thank and encourage others for what they do to make our town so great!

MICKI L. HARNOIS AGE: 62 FAMILY: Husband, Bill; sons, Bob (39) and Frank (34); grandsons, Wyatt (9) and Morgun (8); and granddaughter, Jill (13) CURRENT OCCUPATION: Planner, city of Spokane Valley RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Rockford Council member for eight years and mayor for four years RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in social science, Washington State University; master’s program in urban and regional planning, Eastern Washington University; Association of Washington Cities certified municipal leadership training COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Board member, Association of Washington Cities; board member, Spokane Regional Transportation Council; member, Northeast Mayor’s Association; member, Southeast Spokane County Fair committee; member, Rockford Lion’s Club; member, Rockford Women’s Club

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Rockford mayor?

I believe my common-sense approach to the problems of the town will be beneficial to the town.

STEVE MEYER

What concerns about the town of Rockford prompt you to want to be involved?

I also believe that the main priority is finances and the infrastructure (roads, water, sewer) of the town.

FAMILY: Wife, Pat; daughter, Ragan; and son-in-law, Riley

What opportunities for the town of Rockford excite you about service as a mayor?

We have a possibility to grow, if growth is approached in the correct manner.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I have had some experience in development and real estate business.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

I would have lunch with my family at The Moon in Rockford.

AGE: 65 No photo submitted

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired from State Department of Transportation RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Two terms on City Council and 30 years with the Department of Transportation RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in agriculture business and have been self-employed in a custom agriculture business COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Work on fairs in the community and active in local Fire District 11 HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Hunting, fishing and active in the horse business

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Reading, crossword and jigsaw puzzles, playing piano, singing and being around Rockford youth (our future investment)

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

I would like to have lunch with Kermit the Frog and invite him to be our “pace frog” at our annual Frog Regatta next spring. We would have homemade clam chowder and potato chips at Fredneck’s and end with a piece of pie and ice cream at the Harvest Moon Restaurant in Rockford.

KEY DATES

TO WATCH FOR

OCT. 7: Last day for mail-in and online voter registrations and transfers for the general election OCT. 16-17: Ballots mailed for the general election OCT. 28: Last day for in-person registration for voters NOV. 5: Election day; ballots must be postmarked, dropped in official boxes or filled out at a voter service center NOV. 26: Certification of election FOR MORE: Visit www.spokanecounty. org/elections or call 477-2320

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 13

Rockford Town Council, Position 5 What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Rockford Town Council member?

I have a deep concern and compassion for my community’s wellbeing and future.

ROBERT TOLLEFSON

What concerns about the town of Rockford prompt you to want to be involved?

Our town’s infrastructure needs many upgrades that are both difficult and costly.

FAMILY: Mary Jo; Vickie Jo (33); David (30) and Kory (22)

What opportunities for the town of Rockford excite you about service as a Council member?

The chance to serve my community and help shape its future so that generations to come will have the same chance to have an enjoyable and fulfilling life and home just as I have in my years here in Rockford.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

My attendance of Council meetings, learning what problems we face and how our current council will tackle these problems.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

ROCKFORD

OTHER SEATS

Two other Town Council seats will be on the ballot for Rockford residents when ballots arrive in the mail. Position No. 1 pits Steven Lyle Christman against David Thompson. Neither candidate returned The Current’s questionnaire. Position No. 2 will only have one name on the ballot: Carrie Roecks.

AGE: 53

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Manager of Rockford Mini Mart RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Clerk cashier, bookkeeping, record keeping, accounting RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Two-year accounting degree, Spokane Community College COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Den leader for Cub Scouts Pack 488, Den 5 HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Hunting, fishing, boating, camping

I would have lunch with Benjamin Franklin in Central Park tomorrow if I could.

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Rockford Town Council member?

I would say what best qualifies me is that I approach problems with an open mind. I look at the facts of a situation before coming to a decision and have the ability to change my mind when I’m wrong.

What concerns about the town of Rockford prompt you to want to be involved?

My biggest concern is that there seems to be a lack of accountability among people the town hires, whether they are outside contractors, lawyers, engineers or the town employees. At a recent meeting, the town council barely discussed a costly error made by a lawyer in the town’s employ but focused great attention and time on a misquoted Internet connection fee. I’m also concerned that complaints and grievances to City Hall seem to fall on deaf ears and that resolutions to these problems only come after needlessly long and contentious ordeals, when 10 cents worth of common sense and a little extra effort would have sufficiently diffused the situation.

Our town also faces some serious financial issues, and as a result the council has been raising taxes on people who are already having trouble making ends meet. They do so while simultaneously exploring every way possible, including raising the cost of all new business licenses, to block any of the newly legalized marijuana dispensaries, processing or growing facilities from moving to Rockford, all of which could greatly add to our meager tax base. These proposals would do nothing to prevent the legal possession and use of marijuana in Rockford, they would only deprive us of a potential tax cash cow by sending these buyers to some other nearby town, and could possibly deter other, more traditional businesses from locating here. We need to grow our tax base, not strangle it.

What opportunities for the town of Rockford excite you about service as a Council member?

To be honest, I don’t find the idea of being a councilman exciting. It’s more of a dirty job that needs done and needs done right, and as they say, “If you want something done right ... best do it yourself.” My only hope, should I be elected, is to try to help resuscitate my hometown, which seems to be dying on the vine.

What is the main thing that separates

CHUCK COLLISON AGE: 36 FAMILY: Not married, no children. I have a very demanding dog named Marley, however.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Sheet metal worker RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Construction requires creative problem solving, networking, coordination with other trades and the ability to look at a big, daunting project and see a series of smaller tasks.

All of the aforementioned skills would, in my opinion, be applicable.

RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: See “relevant experience” (candidate combined the two categories with answer).

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Member of Rockford’s Planning and Zoning board, which reviews building permits and zoning ordinances and makes recommendations to the town council. I also volunteer time for Rockford’s annual Frog Regatta (I’m the guy who herds the frogs down the creek) and help set up the drive-in screen for Hot Rockford Nights.

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Cars, boats, wood working, metal working (almost anything that requires tools), movies, reading

you from your opponent in this race?

The creek. He lives on the east side, I live on the west. I don’t consider myself running against Robert. The seat we seek is vacant, and I’m sure we share many of the same hopes and concerns for our town.

The people of Rockford will have to decide for themselves who they feel best represents them.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

My honest answer would have to be my mom or my dad in their kitchen. They both passed in 2010, and I miss their insight and wisdom often. However, this is supposed to be a fun exercise, so let’s say Colonel Mustard in the library.

The Current

14 • OCTOBER 2013

East Valley School Board, Director District 3 What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of East Valley School Board member?

My courage and commitment to do what is good for kids and their education.

What concerns about the East Valley School District prompt you to want to be involved?

I am concerned that we have a small group of bitter, angry people who are negative about everything. I’m concerned that they spread rumors and gossip and drag East Valley’s name through the mud. I’m concerned that the hard work and accomplishments of students and staff is being overshadowed by personal grudges and vengeance. I’m concerned that people will put their own agendas above the needs of students. I am prompted to stay involved to be an optimistic voice, to continue to create a unique district that recognizes that public education is not a one-size-fits-all system. Inevitably, there will be bumps in the road in an organization of this size and complexity, but if we stay positive and focus on problem solving we will find solutions.

If you live or work in our district, you really should be shouting from the rooftops — East Valley, we are doing great work!

What opportunities for the East Valley School District excite you about service as a board member?

I am so excited about the variety of educational opportunities we are now offering in EV: the Enrichment Center offering woodshop, art and leadership electives for eighth-grade students. The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) school with their 3D printer and art history classes. The fact that we are running a full school of CCS (school with a year-round calendar). The partnership with Meals on Wheels feeding senior citizens at Otis each week. The sports programs starting as early as fourth grade. East Valley’s Home Link program, creating options for homeschool parents. The college credits being earned through Advanced Placement classes, college in the high school and Running Start, far exceeds the state average. The hands-on science classes and the CTE (career and technical education) classes that are growing. The option for all-day kindergarten. It’s exciting to have fresh food coming from our community garden straight into our school kitchens, with the hope that we will be able to start an agriculture program. The excitement and rejuvenation that is coming from our teaching staff is amazing. There are the weekend food backpacks, food bank and EV clothing bank that serves our students.

I am excited about our graduation rates that have gone up from the 70 percentages to the 90 percentages! Our district is financially stable with a conservative budget plan and has received clean audits. There is so much to be excited about in EV, and I want to con-

HEIDI GILLINGHAM AGE: 44 FAMILY: Husband, Doug; daughter, Hanna (17); stepdaughter, Amanda (26); son, Jason (13); stepson, Brandon (22); granddaughter, Elise (3); grandson, Jonas (6 months) CURRENT OCCUPATION: Stay-at-home wife and mom and community volunteer RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Four years on East Valley School Board; Otis PTSA Board legislative representative, 2007 and 2008 RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: AAS paralegal degree, Spokane Community College; annual Willow Creek Leadership Summit, 2005-2013 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Senior All-Knighter Committee; EV Coalition to Reduce Alcohol and Drug Use; Otis SCOPE community days; Otis PTSA and school volunteer; Word of Life Community Church outreach coordinator; Upward basketball; harvest parties; Vacation Bible School; Community Carnival; Easter parades; volunteer appreciation; teacher appreciation; women’s retreats; Otis School yearbook publisher, 2008-2012 HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Camping, photography, digital scrapbooking, boating, watching my kids’ sporting events and playing with my grandkids tinue to be a part of this great momentum and the progress we are making.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I say, “We just spent over three years changing. The tough decisions were made based on the desire to overcome mediocrity, input from community members and the necessity to become more financially responsible for sustainability. It has been hard work for the entire staff and has already paid off in the benefits listed above in addition to higher attendance rates and lower disciplinary problems. The major changes are complete. Now it’s time to stay the course and finetune the details.”

He says, “time for a change,” and his supporters want to revert back to systems that have proven ineffective in our district.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

Jesus, at the U.S. Capitol Building.

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of East Valley School Board member?

The one thing that qualifies me to be an EVSD board member is my open mind and willingness to see other’s point of view. Passions can run high when it comes to a school district, and it is vitally important to embrace each other’s differences.

What concerns about the East Valley School District prompt you to want to be involved?

One of the main concerns that motivated be to become involved is the K-8 transition that is happening. Many facets of the reorganization have been both poorly led and poorly executed. From my standpoint, the EVSD board must hold administration more accountable.

What opportunities for the East Valley School District excite you about service as a board member?

The opportunity that excites me about service on the EVSD board includes the fact that the district has many great students, teachers, parents and staff that are dedicated to the education of our children. Being able to have a hand in the education and formation of our next generation I believe is the greatest benefit.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I believe that there are several things that separate me from my opponent.

1. My extensive business experience managing complex organizations that are vital to the community.

2. My financial training and experience is also an asset given the many financial challenges facing the district.

3. I have fresh ideas, and I’m ready and willing to communicate with all of the district’s stakeholders.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

The one person I would choose to

JUSTIN VOELKER AGE: 38 FAMILY: Wife, Tamie; daughter, Taylor (10); and son, Gage (6) CURRENT OCCUPATION: I’m the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for Valley Hospital and have held that position for over four years. I’ve worked for Valley Hospital’s parent company, Community Health Systems, for over 10 years.

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: I manage the business affairs for one of the largest employers in our area (Valley Hospital), with assets of approximately $60 million and annual net revenue of nearly $110 million.

RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Master’s in business administration, University of Phoenix (2005); bachelor’s degree in accounting, Eastern Oregon University (1997); progressive financial leadership positions in hospitals across the United States; no prior public office experience COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: I’ve coached my daughter’s soccer for the last two years. My family and I are also involved in various cancer-related charities as well.

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, playing golf and watching football.

have lunch with would be New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Discussing his accomplishments in the business world and politics would make for a very interesting lunch at Delmonico’s Steakhouse in New York City.

The Current

THE LAW ”

OCTOBER 2013 • 15

“ IT’S

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The Current

16 • OCTOBER 2013

East Valley School Board, Director District 4 What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of East Valley School Board member?

My proven performance as a dedicated school board member. What has been accomplished at East Valley during the past several years is amazing considering the economic struggles our community, state and nation have faced — all-day kindergarten, increased Advanced Placement (AP) and other college credit in the high school options; collaboration time for staff; closing the achievement gap; Overall Excellence and Schools of Distinction awards; continuing award-winning art and music programs; added sports programs for fourth/fifth-graders; largest chapter of Washington Drug Free Youth in the state; programs for pre-kindergarten, homeschooled and teen parent students; community-driven transition to a K-8 model; enrichment center; growing robotics program; a community garden; and so much more.

What concerns about the East Valley School District prompt you to want to be involved?

While there is concern about the infrastructural issues of our aging buildings and the technology network support our students need, I am concerned about some people opposing and resisting the changes and also disrupting the progress we have made as a district and attempting to return East Valley to the way it was.

What opportunities for the East Valley School District excite you about service as a board member?

I’m excited and proud of East Valley and the progress that has been made. It really isn’t about the structural changes that have occurred with the K-8 model.

It’s about our moral imperative to reboot the system in order to better serve our students so they can be successful. We must look at learning differently than we have in the past. Kids engage when they know you care about them and respect them. I believe student success depends on how engaged they are and if there is relevancy.

Some of the changes have already resulted in higher graduation rates, fewer discipline issues and improved learning. While East Valley shares the same mission of inspiring all student to achieve academic excellence and to become responsible citizens, our individual schools have the autonomy to develop their own identity based on their student and community needs. For example, we have a magnet school focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math), a year-round school and a “trauma-based” school which recognizes how life outside school affects academic success and wellbeing. We have robust non-traditional programs involving on-line students and

KERRI LUNSTROTH AGE: 54 FAMILY: Husband, Dennis; daughter, Rachel CURRENT OCCUPATION: Drs. Psomas, Bourekis & Warnica Tradition of Excellence Team Member since 2000 RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: East Valley School Board for eight years, chair for four years; currently serve on OSPI’s School Facilities Technical Advisory Committee; Spokane Regional Health District’s Health and Safety School Advisory Committee; WSSDA’s Innovative Schools Task Force; AASA’s Urban and Rural Healthy Schools Coalition; NSBA’s Federal Relations Network; East Valley School District’s Interest Based Bargaining team; Interscholastic Activities Committee (WIAA); given numerous presentations on a variety of schoolrelated topics at local and state level RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Current student, Western Governors University, Washington, BS business-information technology management; BOMI real property administrator and facilities management administrator certifications COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Youth sports and youth activities HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Being around kids, watching youth sports, volunteering, mentoring, reading, sudoku, music, playing piano, sewing, designing and building projects, creating themebased kid parties, art project-based learning and we continue to look at other opportunities.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

My experience and passion for doing what is best for all kids and standing up for the kids that don’t have a voice.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

Ursula Burns. Lunch would be outdoors overlooking a scenic lake view on a warm sunny day. I have read several articles about Burns, and have been intrigued by her experiences and how they may be relevant to East Valley. Xerox, a highly successful business, struggled only a decade ago because they had gotten comfortable and had not

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of East Valley School Board member?

I’m reliable with finances and making good choices for the school district. I will listen to what the kids need per parents/teachers. I would listen and speak up in regards to any concerns and needs of the school district and not just agree with unnecessary spending.

What concerns about the East Valley School District prompt you to want to be involved?

Misuse of finances for own purposes, not the children or school. The closing of schools and buying portables and renting other buildings, rather than fixing the ones our district already has.

What opportunities for the East Valley School District excite you about service as a board member?

Being able to have a part to get the school operating the way it should be, rather than total confusion, which is what is happening now. I will be available to the taxpayers for questions/answers and figuring out ways to fix the issues.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I will listen to what the teachers, the kids and the parents’ needs are and will bring them to the board to discuss and make decisions, which is not being done now, and currently the taxpayers’ money is unnecessarily being spent, which I would not do. Spending 1/4 of a million dollars on a building that does not represent a classroom is not money well spent.

I want to make sure the kids have things they need to succeed, such as having a locker to keep their many necessities

adjusted to changing demands. Xerox has refocused and is now thriving. Burns was instrumental with this transformation focusing not only on product, but culture. She stated “terminal niceness” was a key tenet of Xerox’s old culture and counterproductive to growth and innovation. She embraces risktaking, initiative and frankness — the frankness you have when you function like a real family with open, honest discussions.

East Valley has always been a family. We just got a little too comfortable. We need to trust and function like a real family with open, honest discussions. The world is changing, and we must adapt accordingly.

East Valley is making a difference for our kids. We are creating a better place for students to learn and we are leading our students to the next level.

FRED HELMS AGE: 73 FAMILY: Wife, Linda; daughters, Janet and Tammy CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired lab technician RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: President of a club that volunteers for events six times; chief shop steward of the union at Kaiser Mead RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Graduated high school and some college courses as a lab technician COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Works in a volunteer club, volunteering for many events throughout Spokane and Idaho HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Camping, volunteering for different events, yard work, love being known as grandpa and giving high fives to the kids in my granddaughter’s special needs class at East Valley

needed to complete their courses.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

Terry Bradshaw. I think would be a lot of fun discussing football and life, at my house for barbecue steak and baked potatoes.

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 17

East Valley School Board, Director District 5 What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of East Valley School Board member?

I feel I am best qualified to serve as a school board member based on my experience as a team leader. As a board member, in order to be most effective in working with other board members as well as serving as the superintendent’s supervisor, you need to have strong leadership skill and an understanding of how to engage cooperation and guide communication. I have been in a management role, having as many as 20 direct reports for 10 years. In addition, my knowledge of finance and budget management also qualify me to assist our district in deciding on viable budget options and hold the district accountable to proper budget management. Finally, I feel that being a 35-year resident of the district who attended East Farms, Mountain View and East Valley High School, I have a strong understanding of our community and the potential it has to offer.

DEANNA L. ERVIN AGE: 35 FAMILY: Husband, Tim; son, Isaiah, age 13, grade 8; and daughter, McKenzie, age 8, grade 3 CURRENT OCCUPATION: Branch manager for local credit union RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: 15 years experience in finance and 10 years management and leadership RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Did not answer COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Blood drive coordinator for INBC; MS Walk coordinator for Numerica Credit Union; class volunteer at East Farms Elementary; judge for EVHS Senior Project presentations; Viper Club tournament support; Valleyfest economic development survey collection; East Farms STEAM auction set up; and countless other events that come up throughout the year

What concerns about the East Valley School District prompt you to want to be involved?

Our district has failed three bonds, which is a strong indication that the community does not support the direction of the district leadership. My goal in serving for the district is to evaluate where we are going and what our financial options are. While the students of the district are receiving the knowledge they need to graduate, I do not feel they are receiving the experience and opportunities that they could with more fiscally responsible leadership under a different structure. Additionally, I feel that much of the trust that once existed among patrons and the school board has dissolved, leading to a lack of support for district initiatives. Finally, and most importantly, I became involved because this district is my own. I have two children still attending East Valley schools and a distinct feeling of pride in the legacy of the schools I attended and entrust my own children’s education with.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I believe the main thing that separates the two of us is our commitment to education and our involvement within the community. Having attended many board meeting as well as volunteering at many events, I believe that my participation level, history within the community and that I have two young students currently attending an East Valley school differentiates me from my opponent.

What opportunities for the East Valley School District excite you about service as a board member?

I am most excited by the opportunity to utilize my skills to unite the community and revitalize this district. I feel very strongly about serving and supporting the community you live in, and this is an exciting opportunity to do both in a unique and important way.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

I would like to have lunch with my mother. She passed away many years ago when I was newly married and my son was very young. It would be nice to talk with her about my life and how things are going. We would eat at Arby’s because she loved their sandwiches.

HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Golf, skiing/snowboarding, EV wresting and football

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of East Valley School Board member?

I have seen for too many years the opinions of parents neglected by our school board. I bring to the table the ability to listen and focus on issues that need to be addressed. I see this process as a funnel where the public address their concerns to the school board, who then funnel those ideas into main concerns and present those to the superintendent, who uses his expertise to enact those ideas. Right now, I see that funnel as turned upside down, where ideas are generated by the superintendent and then forced on the public without proper vetting.

What concerns about the East Valley School District prompt you to want to be involved?

I want to see the K-8 idea revisited because up until now, the implementation of the concept has been highly flawed.

When we have students actually meeting in a boarded-up building, the process is proven invalid.

What opportunities for the East Valley School District excite you about service as a board member?

I’m excited to work with great teachers and board members in reversing this funnel and opening up numerous channels of communication with the public so they are more informed out what we are trying to accomplish.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

Everything I have heard about my opponent in district 5 is positive. She is a good person who shares my concern for

MIKE NOVAKOVICH AGE: 48 FAMILY: Wife, Nikki; sons, Nick and Jaren; daughters, Darbi and Zoe CURRENT OCCUPATION: Business owner, Piccadilly Crossing and Plumb Painting RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Small business owner; involved in Scouting; led service project to paint East Farms Elementary with 200 volunteers RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Graduated high school from Dimond High in Alaska and four years at Brigham Young University COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Scouting, service projects HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Enjoy hiking, photography and running with my wife

change.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

I would always choose to have lunch with my wife. She is my confident and biggest supporter. We would eat at Café Rio.

The Current

18 • OCTOBER 2013

Spokane Valley Fire, Commissioner Position 2 What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley Fire Department commissioner?

I am very available to the community.

Between my current job and the amount of time I spend out in public doing the variety of daily activities, I am in touch with the changing needs of our community.

What concerns about the Spokane Valley Fire Department prompt you to want to be involved?

We are facing difficult economic times. It is critical that we are able to balance the needs of the Spokane Valley Fire District with the tax revenue that is available.

What opportunities for the Spokane Valley Fire Department excite you about service as a commissioner?

The Spokane Valley Fire District has a rich history of having some of the best firemen and equipment in the region.

I am excited to see what can be accomplished from a service and efficiency level.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

I believe my level of experience is substantially broader than my opponent’s. I have sat on a number of boards and committees that have exposed me to the broader needs of the community as a whole. I also believe that I will bring a fresh perspective to the board.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

A great question! Lunch with Astronaut Neil Armstrong would be incredible. Being able to pick his brain on what he experienced being the first man on the moon would be an absolute privilege.

MICHAEL DEVLEMING AGE: 53 FAMILY: Wife, Pennie (23 years); son, Logan; and daughter, Rachel CURRENT OCCUPATION: Employed by Vera Water and Power (24 years) as the customer service director, fleet manager and safety director RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Part of the original Spokane Valley City Council and was the first mayor of Spokane Valley RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Continue to be active with: Spokane Valley Chamber; Spokane Home Builders Association; attend fire board meetings on a regular basis for the last year COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Past member of: SCOPE board, Valleyfest, Friends of Centennial Trail board, Spokane County Air Pollution Control Authority (SCAPCA), YMCA, flag football coach to kindergarten through sixth-graders for 20-plus years HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: My hobbies include being very act in my community. I like to be involved and I have a passion for public service. I love riding my motorcycle with my friends and enjoy struggling with my golf game.

I would like our lunch to be at his house.

I would think he would have some incredible mementos from his time in the space program.

What is the one thing about you that you believe best qualifies you for the role of Spokane Valley Fire Department commissioner?

Twenty-four years experience as a fire commissioner, working with fire training at the college and my background in administration and construction.

What concerns about the Spokane Valley Fire Department prompt you to want to be involved?

Keeping the team-building programs together and working toward a lower insurance rating for the department, which will lower the citizen’s insurance rates. Would like to accomplish this by 2016.

What opportunities for the Spokane Valley Fire Department excite you about service as a commissioner?

The quality of service we offer.

What is the main thing that separates you from your opponent in this race?

Experience, time available daily if needed, knowledge of the fire district’s operations and a good interaction with the administration and firemen.

Finally, for fun, who is one person, past or present, you would like to have lunch with — and where would you eat it?

The Mayors of Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake and Millwood at Darcy’s in University City for lunch.

RONALD SCHMIDT AGE: 76 FAMILY: Wife, Sharran; five sons; two daughters; 13 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren.

CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired from Community Colleges of Spokane; currently on board of NEWESD 101 (42 years); fire commissioner serving Spokane Valley Fire District (24 years) RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: College administrator responsible for trade, industrial, apprenticeship and continuing education; specialty advanced fire training and the Police Academy RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: BA from EWU in education; continued studies at Gonzaga University and Purdue University COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Cub and Boy Scout leader; foster parent; United Way team leader; board member of foundation to raise money special needs children and those with dentistry problems, etc.; volunteer at Guild School HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Enjoy helping others, gardening and traveling

LIBERTY LAKE

CANDIDATE FORUM

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2 WHERE: Meadowwood Technology Campus cafeteria, 2100 N. Molter Road, Liberty Lake INVITED PARTICIPANTS: Liberty Lake City Council candidates (three races) HOSTED BY: Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce OF NOTE: You can also learn more about the candidates for Liberty Lake City Council in the October issue of The Current’s sister publication, The Splash, at www. libertylakesplash.com.

The Current

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20 • OCTOBER 2013

HISTORY

The Current

Women build life, give back in Spokane Valley

By Bill Zimmer and Jayne Singleton SPOKANE VALLEY HERITAGE MUSEUM

In 1904, the Newman Lake social club, organized by six ladies, became known as the Newman Lake Ladies Aid. They met in the newly built Congregational Church.

One of their goals was to raise money to help pay the minister’s salary, which was accomplished through a quilt raffle, bazaars and dinners. They raised their own chickens and vegetables, contributing them to the dinners. Despite these efforts, the church was forced to close. The ladies’ group bought the church building and changed the club’s name to Newman Lake Aid and Civic Society. They used and maintained the building until 1934, when they deeded it to the Tri-Community Grange with the provision that the Society could still utilize it as needed. The ladies supported projects of the Grange and various youth organizations, churches and schools. In 1949, they became involved in county extension work, supporting many clubs throughout the community through service and financial support.

In Otis Orchards, the first Ladies Aid Society was organized about 1911, providing for religious and fundraising activities for the ladies of the Eden Congregational Church. One of the first fundraisers was a dinner and dance at the hall on the second floor of the Otis Mercantile Store. Other fundraisers included mini-auctions, bazaars, basket socials and ice cream socials.

Funds raised helped the church missions as well as the Union Gospel Mission and Ogden Hall, which continue today to provide for women and children in transition.

The Orchard Avenue Community Club was formed in 1917 to provide services to the community. Both men and women were involved in the club, but women played a particularly active role serving as planners and leaders. The club owned its own community hall as well as seven acres, including a swimming pool, along Park Road, just south of the Spokane International Railroad tracks. The hall was a center for Boy Scouts, Campfire girls, 4-H Club and Parent Teacher Associations.

The club leadership continually looked for opportunities to serve the community.

In Millwood in the late 1930s and early 1940s, a group of housewives met in one another’s homes to enjoy a lunch, conversation and friendship. This club was called The Merry Mother’s Club. The women served their lunch to each member on small metal trays, which were passed on to the lady who would be the next hostess. Children were allowed at the meetings, as there were no babysitters for them.

It was always fun to see what food would be served. Innovative recipes such as “Sea Foam Salad,” “Angel Food Pie” and “Avocado Jello Salad” were often featured.

The 1940-41 roster of the Spokane Valley Women’s Club shows a membership number of 146. The club’s motto was “No Nation is Greater than its Women.” The club was involved in an unbelievable number of community projects over the years.

Many projects primarily involved service while others involved financial commitment. One of the best-known projects was the development and beautification of the Sullivan Bridge picnic area, which is still today enjoyed by both residents and tourists. Other projects included: Promoting the need for a Spokane Valley hospital by working with other Valley organizations and by pledging $1,000, organizing the Inland Empire Iris Show (held at the Opportunity Town Hall), familiarizing women of the Valley with civil defense techniques for home and community, eliminating blind street corners in the Valley for traffic safety and getting petitions signed in support of the Dishman Hills Natural Area. Through the many activities listed here, it is obvious the Spokane Valley Women’s Club touched the lives of all the residents of the Spokane Valley in a very positive way.

Long before Valley Hospital was built, a maternity home was founded by Stella Schafer Torrey to assist young women through their pregnancy and delivery — whether the children were legitimate or illegitimate. There weren’t too many places for these women to go in the 1930s, ’40s and ’50s. Mrs. Torrey’s own twin daughters were also born at the maternity home.

The Women’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), which organized at a national level in 1873, has historically been dedicated to social reform, including women’s suffrage, missionary work and prohibition of alcohol. Membership exceeded 372,000 in 1931 and slowly declined to 2,000 by 2012. The Spokane area followed much the same pattern. The WCTU became a presence in the Spokane area in 1883, when Lucy Messer Switzer organized the first chapter, which reached an enrollment of 2,000 during the prohibi-

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SPOKANE VALLEY HERITAGE MUSEUM

Above, a Ladies Aid Club meets in the Valley in this circa 1917 photo. At left, leaders of the Spokane Valley Women’s Club are pictured in this undated photo.

A VALLEY OF OPPORTUNITY A monthly series on the heritage of the greater Spokane Valley tion era and dropped to 375 active members in all of eastern Washington by 1985.

Numbers dropped when it became difficult to enlist younger members. Chris Henderson, a member of the Spokane Valley unit, commented that, “I’m 64 years old, and I’m one of the younger ones.” To show the dedication of some members to the causes of the organization, Marie Kuppinger, who had moved from Spokane to Seattle, took the bus back to Spokane to attend monthly meetings. Current issues facing the organization included alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, abortion and gay marriage.

As mentioned earlier, one of the goals of the WCTU was to secure for women the right to vote. On June 1, 1909, May Arkwright Hutton and Mrs. Z.W. Commerford organized and conducted a meeting at Opportunity School with 27 ladies from the Valley in attendance. The purpose of the meeting was to organize a “Women’s Equal Suffrage Club.” Six women became members with prospects for many more.

In conducting the meeting, Mrs. Hutton said, “We will sing ‘My Country Tis of Thee’ in honor of the old soldiers, for we, as women, have no country. We are not citizens. In the State of Washington, women are not persons.” Washington state granted women suffrage in 1910.

In addition to the organizations identified, many churches still have their own ladies groups providing service to their

Jan. Missionaries and Indians Feb. Bridge Builders and Ferrymen March The Lake Men April The Real Estate Developers, Land and Power May Immigrants claim their Valley June Irrigation July Depots and Platforms Aug. Purveyors of Leisure Sept. Commerce Oct. Ladies of the Valley Nov. Veterans of the Valley Dec. Old Timers’ stories church and community.

Commercially, civilly and socially, as the Valley developed, the part that women played cannot be overstated. They have provided the initiative and leadership along with the social skills necessary to effectively serve their communities and the Valley at large.

Bill Zimmer is a retired educator and West Valley School District board member and a volunteer at the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum. Jayne Singleton is its executive director. For more about this article or other aspects of the history of the Spokane Valley region, visit the museum at 12114 E. Sprague Ave. or call 922-4570.

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 21

COMMUNITY

Rotary Men of Fashion Show fundraiser to be held Oct. 4 Event helps fund book drive, college scholarships From Staff Reports

Model community citizens will become models, period, for the Spokane Valley Rotary Men of Fashion Show Oct. 4. The event will be from 6 to 9 p.m. at CenterPlace at Mirabeau Point Park, 2426 N. Discovery Place in Spokane Valley.

The event will feature 18 male Rotarians from clubs around the area as models. There will also be a silent auction, raffles, games and dinner, the latter of which is included in the $50 admission fee.

In 2013, the club’s Books for Kids program provided a free book to every student in six elementary schools — two each in the West Valley, East Valley and Central Valley school districts — during the celebration of Dr. Seuss’ birthday and the week of “Read Across America.” That came to a total of more than 2,650 books.

Additionally, club members visited the schools to help with distribution and to read to the students.

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Payson said the club’s ultimate goal is to give a free book to every student in every elementary school in all three of the districts.

The event is a fundraiser, particularly for a pair of signature programs for the club, said Spokane Valley Rotary President-Elect Mike Payson.

The second program the Spokane Valley Rotary funds through its annual fashion show is the scholarships the club awards to college-bound high school graduates. Payson said six scholarships were awarded in 2013.

Payson said since forming in 1947, one of Spokane Valley Rotary’s goals has been to help the children of the greater Spokane Valley area.

For more information on the Spokane Valley Rotary Men of Fashion Show or the local club, contact Payson at 290-5514 or email diamonds487@hotmail.com.

Ron’s Drive-Inn has served the people of Spokane and the Valley proudly for 55 years — here’s to another 55!

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where spokane gets engaged.

106 N. Evergreen Rd. (509) 893-2929

Thursday, October 24, 2013 3-8 p.m.

106 N. Evergreen Rd. (509) 227-WINE

22 • OCTOBER 2013

LOCAL LENS

Street fair sheds light on community causes

The Current

Shutterbug Snapshots

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Michael Hassett of Liberty Lake took this photo Sept. 14 near the lookout tower on Quartz Mountain at Mt. Spokane State Park.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

On Sept. 7, approximately 2,000 guests strolled through the Valley Assembly Church parking lot filled with exhibitor booths, a classic car show, Zumba demonstrations, kids activities and more during the fifth annual street fair. Organizers said the goal of the family-friendly event is to raise awareness of how people can find assistance in the community or volunteer for a community non-profit.

Truckloads sold for transplant patient SUBMITTED PHOTO

Michael Hassett took this photo of a Belted Kingfisher near Newman Lake in September.

Freeman finishes strong

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Approximately 20 truckloads of items raised $5,000 for Kyle Sipe and his family to go toward expenses for Kyle’s upcoming heart/lung transplant. The Post Falls teen was born with end-stage congenital heart disease. The rummage sale took place Sept. 7 at New Life Assembly of God Church. To learn more, go to Facebook.com/COTAforKyles.

Local Lens Share your snapshots for The Current’s photo page. Email photos@valleycurrent.com with scenes from around town, community events and group photos.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Freeman Legion A baseball team took second place at the A Legion state tournament in Olympia July 27-31. McKabe Cottrell was named Most Valuable Pitcher of the tournament after pitching 15 and 1/3 innings, giving up one earned run and striking out 23 batters along the way. Freeman finished their season with a 30-8 record. Pictured are (bottom row) Brandon Campbell, Ethan Viles, Simon Rooney, Koby Kent, JT Neely, Ben Sharpe; (top row) coach Chad Ripke, Derek Smith, Ian Johnston, Sebastian Hyta, AJ Iris, Zach Hyta, Brady Sousa, Chance Halstead, McKabe Cottrell, Jake Phipps, coach Clayton Panzeri, coach Kelly Neely and coach Justin Altmeyer.

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 23 Since 1981

October Business Connections meeting to feature Gonzaga Coach Kelly Graves

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Highlights from your Chamber

Matching Funds: Thrivent Financial For Lutherans – Spokane Valley

Kelly Graves will speak on leadership and team building during the Oct. 18 Business Connections breakfast. Coach Graves has turned Gonzaga University women’s basketball into one of the elite programs in the nation in his 12 years at the helm. The winningest coach in Bulldog history led GU to their unprecedented eighth-straight West Coast Conference Championship and fifth NCAA Tournament appearance in the last six years in the 2011-12 season.

This past summer, Graves added USA Basketball to his resume, becoming an assistant coach with the U18 women’s basketball squad and helping the team to a gold medal at the 2012 FIBA Americas.

No stranger to the area, Graves started his coaching career in nearby Moses Lake as the head coach of Big Bend Community College where he turned a struggling program with four wins his first season into a Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges power his last season with 23 wins. At Gonzaga, Graves is 261-125 overall and 124-44 in West Coast Conference.

Come hear Coach Graves speak Oct. 18 at the Business Connections Breakfast at Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100 N. Sullivan.

Coffee and conversation will begin at 6:30 a.m. followed by the program at 7 a.m.

Cost is $25 members and guests ($35 for non-members). Attendees are requested to register for the breakfast at spokanevalleychamber.org.

his tournament made possible through the caring generosity of:

ADD-A-LAWN HYDROSEED AIR DESIGN HEATING & COOLING ALPINE PATIO & HOME PRODUCTS ANDERSON SPRINKLERS & LANDSCAPE AVALON CARE CENTER BED, BATH & BEYOND BEN BRIDGE JEWELERS BODI FX CAT TALES ZOOLOGICAL PARK CENTURY 21 – DAVE & ALENE LINDSTRAND COEUR D’ALENE CASINO & HOTEL COLONIAL COURT COSTCO CONNECTION CRAZY BEAGLE CSI DESIGN – CINDY STEINER DEEANN PERRY DISCOUNT MUFFLER – SPOKANE VALLEY DISHMAN DODGE DIXON GOLF DUTCH BROTHER’S COFFEE EGGER’S QUALITY MEATS FARMER BROTHER’S COFFEE FERRARO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT FRED MEYER – SPOKANE VALLEY GIORGIO’S FITNESS GOBER’S SON & SON GROUP W. STUDIO HANSEN, HUNTER, CO. HEALTH CARE TRAINING SERVICES HEIT PHOTOGRAPHY HIGH 5 IMPORT EXPORT – FRANK & SHARON SELL

DEB HIRSCHI HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS – HAYDEN HOSPICE OF SPOKANE HU HOT MONGOLIAN GRILL INFINITY REHAB INLAND ELEVATOR, LLC INLAND MEDICAL & REHAB INLAND NW ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION INTERPLAYER’S THEATRE JENNIFER’S USED AUTO SALES JEWELRY DESIGN CENTER JIM WEISEN JIM WHITTLE JUST ROSES KAYU- FOX 28 LAKE CITY PLAYHOUSE LATAH CREEK WINE CELLARS LES SCHWAB TIRES – EAST SPRAGUE LUIGI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT MARK’S HALLMARK – NORTHPOINTE NOODLE EXPRESS NORTHWEST DINNER AMONG FRIENDS NORTHWEST HEALTH SYSTEMS, INC. O’DOHERTY’S PUB & BBQ OZ FITNESS PATRIOT FIRE PROTECTION PLANTLAND NURSERY PROVIDENT ELECTRIC RESIDENCE INN MARRIOTT RIBAIL ADVISORY SERVICES

RIVERVIEW RETIREMENT COMMUNITY EVELYN ROECKS SAFEWAY – LIBERTY LAKE SAVEMORE BUILDING SUPPLY SCHLOTZSKY’S DELI – SULLIVAN RD. SCHRYVER MEDICAL SHERWIN WILLIAMS SILVERWOOD THEME PARK SPECIALTY HOMECARE – LIFELINE SPOKANE CHIEF’S HOCKEY SPOKANE CIVIC THEATRE SPOKANE INDIAN’S BASEBALL SUNSHINE DISPOSAL & RECYCLING SWEETWATER BAKERY SYSCO FOODS SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGIES TAMRON JEWELRY DESIGN CARYLE TEMPLETON TEXAS ROADHOUSE THE LIBERTY LAKE SPLASH & THE CURRENT THE MANE CUT – LYNN FORBES THRIVENT FINANCIAL FOR LUTHERANS – ANTHONY FREI TIMBER CREEK BUFFET TOM’S BARBER SHOP TRIPLE PLAY FAMILY FUN PARK VALLEY BEST WAY WALKER’S AUTOMOTIVE WHITEY’S WRECKING WIDE WORLD OF GOLF WILD SAGE RESTAURANT ZYTHUM BREWING COMPANY

Thank you so much for enriching the lives of our residents who call Good Samaritan Society – Spokane Valley home.

C

ongratulations to this year’s team winners:

2013 Candidates Forums The Valley Chamber is hosting a trio of candidates forums. Come hear your local candidates’ perspectives on the issues.

Oct. 2, 6:30 p.m., Liberty Lake contested council races, Meadowwood Technology

Chamber events in October Oct. 1, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Government Action committee meeting, Valley Hospital Education Center, 12606 E. Mission, Cost is $20 (includes lunch). Register at spokanevalleychamber.org.

Campus Cafeteria, 2100 N. Molter Road Oct. 15, 6:30 p.m., Millwood contested mayoral race, Millwood City Hall Chambers, 9103 E. Frederick Ave. Oct.16, 6:30 p.m., Spokane Valley contested council races, CenterPlace Auditorium, 2426 N. Discovery Place is $25 for members and guests ($35 for non-members). Register at spokanevalleychamber.org.

Oct. 21, Buffalo Wild Wings Grand Opening, 14702 E. Indiana Ave. Ribbon cutting at 10 a.m.

Oct. 3, 4:30 to 6 p.m., Business Cents Open House, 326 W. Boone, Ste. 590. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 24, Noon, Transportation Committee Meeting, Longhorn Barbecue, 2315 N. Argonne Rd.

Oct. 9, 4:30 to 6 p.m., Meet the Chamber Member Reception, AIR CONTROL Heating & Electric, 7203 E. Nora Ave. Certificate presentations at 5:30 p.m.

Be sure to check our website at spokanevalleychamber.org for more details and updates.

Oct. 10, 4:30 to 6 p.m., Event Rents Grand Opening, 4020 E. Broadway. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 15, 4:30 to 6 p.m., CenturyLink Open House, 904 N. Columbus St., Spokane. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m.

Oct. 18, 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., Business Connections Breakfast, Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100 N. Sullivan. Coffee and conversation begin at 6:30 a.m., program 7 a.m.

Gonzaga women’s basketball coach Kelly Graves will be the guest speaker. Cost

New members

Please join us in welcoming the following members who have recently joined the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce: Belsby Engineering Bruttles Case42 Creative Media Central Saw Works Garco Construction Gottcha Covered Icon Roofing Nu Home Brew & Bottles Vivint, Inc

1st Place Low Gross: High 5 Import Export- Frank & Sharon Sell 2nd Place Low Gross: Good Samaritan Society – Spokane Valley 1st Place Low Net: J.S. Kirkland, Co. 2nd Place Low Net: Health Care Training Services

Save the Date:

2014 Golf Tourney August 8th

1421 N. Meadowwood Lane • Liberty Lake, WA 99019 • Phone: 509 924-4994 www.spokanevalleychamber.org

The Current

24 • OCTOBER 2013

COMMUNITY

Calendar of Events COMMUNITY

Error… Then Repeat” 3 to 5 p.m., Hastings,

Sept. 27-29, Oct. 4-6, 11-13, 18-20, 24-27, 31 | Corn Maze 5 to 8 p.m. (Fridays), 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Saturdays) and noon to 5 p.m. (Sundays), HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Three sports-theme mazes are available across 10 acres. A haunted trail of fear will also be open Oct. 5, 11-12, 18-19, 24-27 and 31.

Discounted group rates available. For ticket prices and more: www.hubsportscenter.org/CornMaze

Sept. 27-29 | Just Between Friends 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Spokane County Fair & Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. This seasonal sales event allows people to come together to buy and sell gentlyused children’s and maternity items. For more: www.jbfsale.com Sept. 27 | Stop Violence Against Women Day 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Coeur d’Alene Resort

& Casino Event Center, 37914 S. Hwy. 95. Tickets are available for $75 and include lunch, dinner, seminars and women’s health and resource fair.

For more: 928-9664

Sept. 28 | Beyond Books 2 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Bonita Gilbert will share about her book “Building for War” about a group of civilian workers and their families who were forever changed by the events on the U.S. island of Wake during December 1941. For more: www.scld.org Sept. 28 | Book signing for “Trial and

15312 E. Sprague. Greenacres resident Melissa Lowden will be available to sign copies of her book. She will also be signing noon to 3 p.m. on Oct. 26 at Barnes & Noble, 15310 E. Indiana. For more: 877-727-0697

Oct. 4 | Palouse Beer Tasting and 3-course Dinner 5:30 p.m., On Sacred Grounds Coffee

Shop, 12212 E. Palouse Hwy., Valleyford. Dinner includes chips and salsa, Tabouli Bulgar Green Salad, German Sausage/Red Potato/Green Pepper medley, apple crisp and a sampling of at least three micro-brews. Critic Rick Bonino will be hand for a discussion about brewing processes followed by a question and answer time. Cost is $25 per person or $45 per couple. Reservations required by Sept. 30. For more: 747-6294

Oct. 5 | Love Talk Play Soup 10 p.m., Otis

Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley. This program consists of a 30-minute interactive concert from Jenks followed by 30 minutes of activities for children and parents to do together. Also 2 p.m.

Oct. 12 at Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne Road.

For more: www.scld.org

Oct. 5 | Newman Lake Volunteer District open house 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Newman Lake

Fire Station #1, 10236 NW Newman Lake Drive.

The public is invited to see the MedStar Helicopter, have a picture taken with the fire truck, learn fire response skills in the Edith House Fire Safety Trailer, see the Jaws of Life at work, take “handsonly” CPR classes and more. Also, Fire Chief

Yamane and the Board of Fire Commissioners will be available to answer questions about the need for a new fire station. For more: 226-0187

Oct. 5 | Family Fun on the Farm 11 a.m. to 4

p.m., Carver Farms, 9105 N. Idaho Road. Popcorn, caramel corn and caramel apples will be available in addition in free hayrides on October weekends (weather-permitting) beginning Oct. 5. For more: 226-3602 or www.carverfarms.com

Oct. 5 | Hoedown for Hope 5 to 9 p.m., Rockin’ B Ranch, 3912 Spokane Bridge Road, Liberty Lake. A fundraiser for HOPE School, a nonprofit preschool for local deaf and hard-of-hearing children, the evening will include cocktails, music, raffles, dinner and dessert. Tickets are $55 per person. For more: www.spokanehopeschool.org

Oct. 8 | Kids Explore and Discover Club

4 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Join Kelly Milner Halls, author of “Dinosaur Mummies” and “Dinosaur Travel Guide” to learn about dinosaurs. Participants will create a dinosaur artifact of their own. Also 4 p.m. Oct. 22 at Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley. For more: www.scld.org

Oct. 9 | World Famous Harvest Dinner 5:30 to 7 p.m., Rockford United Methodist Church, 217 S. 1st St., Rockford.

Oct. 10 | Spokane Is Reading event 7 p.m.,

CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Place. Best-selling author Maria Semple will present on her book , “Where’d You Go, Bernadette.” For more: scld.org

Oct. 11 | Greenacres Elementary School FUNdraiser 6 to 9 p.m., Triple Play Family Fun

Center, 175 W. Orchard Ave., Hayden. Cost is $15 for a wristband to enjoy a night of family fun. Pool will be open until 10 p.m. Stop by the GES table to purchase a wristband.

Oct. 11 & 12 | Ice cream social and dancing 8 p.m., Western Dance Center, 1901 N.

Sullivan. Have fun, stay in shape and make new friends during this free night of square dancing as well as other kinds of dancing. For more: 979-2607 or www.squaredancespokane.org

Oct. 13 | Love & Logic begins 2 to 4 p.m., Valley Real Life, 1831 S. Barker Road. This six-week parenting class starts Oct. 13 to help parents raise children who are self-confident, motivated and ready for the real world. There is a $10 fee per person; childcare is provided for a donation. To register or for more: 953-5872 or www.valleyreallife.org Oct. 16 | Spokane Valley Library Book Club

2 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Come prepared to discuss “A Farewell to Arms” by Ernest Hemingway. For more: www.scld.org

Oct. 18 | Fall Harvest Festival of Fun 6 to 9 p.m., Valley Christian School, 10212 E. 9th Ave. Kid-friendly activities, music, food and auction will all be a part of this event. Cost is $25 per adult and $15 for ages 5-18 (or $100 for a family pass). For more: www.valleychristianschool.org Oct. 19 | Bold Spirited Travelers 2 p.m., Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne Road. Authors Jim and Linda Hunt draw from their books “Restless Fires” and “Bold Spirit” to explore how travel shaped the ideas, values and spirit of America’s leading environmental thinker and an active citizen and suffragette. Also 7 p.m. Oct. 24 at Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. For more: www.scld.org Oct. 25 | Harvest Moon and HalloWine Auction 5:30 p.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100

Providing state-of-the-art medicine and timeless skin care, so you can be healthy and feel beautiful.

N. Sullivan Road. Presented by Inland Northwest Business Travel Association, proceeds from the auction go to Spokane Fantasy Flight to provide Christmas memories for underprivileged children of the Spokane area. For more: www.inbta.org

Oct. 26 | Mobius Science Saturday 2:30 p.m., Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley.

Mobius will help kids explore the mysteries of the unseen forces that influence the world around us.

For more: www.scld.org

North Idaho Dermatology is pleased to welcome Dr. Hilary H. Hill to the team!

Oct. 27 | Mother Goose on the Loose with Nancy Stewart 3 p.m., Spokane Valley Library,

12004 E. Main Ave. Favorite nursery rhymes come to life with interactive props and lots of help from young audience members. For more: www.scld.org

Dr. Hill joins North Idaho Dermatology after finishing her residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin where she completed her training in general adult and pediatric dermatology, advanced dermatologic surgery and advanced dermatopathology.

Oct. 31 | Trunk or Treat 6 to 7 p.m., Millwood

Presbyterian Church, 3223 N. Marguerite Road.

Trick-or-treaters are invited to enjoy hot chocolate and cider while making the rounds to decorated trunks to collect candy and goodies. For more: 924-2350

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KiDDS Dental, 1327 N. Stanford Lane, Suite B, Liberty Lake. Dental office buys unopened Halloween candy for $1 per pound and sends it to troops overseas during this sixth annual event.

Goodie bags, prizes and letter writing to troops are

See CALENDAR, page 25

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 25

COMMUNITY

CALENDAR

person; seating is limited. For tickets or more: www.libertylaketheatre.com

Continued from page 24

Oct. 12 | Latin Folk Festival 6 p.m., LDS Church, 1620 E. 29th St., Spokane. The community is invited to a free evening of singing, dancing and dining to celebrate Latin American culture. A short program combining music and Latin folk dance performances followed by a dinner and dance.

also part of the event. For more: 891-7070 or www. growupsmiling.com

Recurring Spokane County Library District Valley branch 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, teen anime club and writing clubs. For more: www.scld.org

Oct. 12 | Improv comedy show 7 p.m., Ignite!

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. For more: www.libertylakewa.gov/library

Oct. 16 | Liberty Lake Art Society exhibit reception 6 to 8 p.m., Liberty Lake Library,

Liberty Lake Farmers Market Saturdays, 9

a.m. to 1 p.m., 1421 N. Meadowwood Lane. The market closes for the season on Oct. 12. For more: www.llfarmersmarket.com

Rockford Crochet Class Saturdays, 10 a.m.

to noon, 229 S. First, Rockford. Join others at the weekly Crochet class held in the Rockford Community Center. Other types of craft, sewing, needle work are also enjoyed. Stop in and stitch and visit with others. For more: 291-4716

Spokane Valley Eagles 16801 E. Sprague.

Breakfast served Sundays 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more: foe3433.com

Spokane Valley Writer’s Group 6:15 p.m. the

first and third Thursdays of every month, Liberty Lake Municipal Library, 23123 E. Mission Ave. This supportive critique group welcomes adult writers.

For more: 570-4440

MUSIC & THE ARTS Sept. 28 | Artist Showcase Art Auction 5

to 6:30 p.m., CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Place. Wine, food and music will be a part of this 7th annual event sponsored by the Spokane Valley Arts Council. A quick draw demonstration will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the auction. Tickets are $50 per person and are available at Pacific Flyway Gallery. For more: 747-0812

Sept. 28 | Gala Grand Opening 6 p.m., Liberty Lake Community Theatre, 22910 E. Appleway Ave. This fundraising event will include a ribbon cutting, beverages and Hors d’oeuvres, music

by Cross My Heart, a comedic auction, and the one-act play “Well Written.” Tickets are $30 per

Community Theatre, 10814 E. Broadway Ave. This live, family-friendly show is improvised on the spot based upon suggestions from the audience.

Another show is planned for Nov. 16. Admission is $5. For more: www.ignitetheatre.org

23123 E. Mission. Local artists showcase work in watercolor, oil, acrylic, digital photograms and mixed media collages and portraits during the month of October. The public is invited to drop by during library hours to vote on their favorite pieces.

Oct. 18-20, 25-27, Nov. 1-3 | “Little Shop of Horrors” 7:30 p.m. (Fri. and Sat.) and 2 p.m.

(Sun.), Ignite! Community Theatre, 10814 E. Broadway Ave. In the first musical production for Ignite, a floral assistant becomes an overnight sensation when he discovers an exotic plant with a craving for blood. Advanced tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for seniors/military and $15 for students. Tickets at the door will be $20. For more: www.ignitetheatre.org

Oct. 18-20, 24-27 | “Death By Chocolate”

3 p.m. (Oct. 19-20, 27) and 7 p.m. (Oct. 18-19, 24-26), Liberty Lake Community Theatre, 22910 E. Appleway Ave. Comedy shares story of a smalltime private eye investigating a death in a coffee shop known for its signature drink, Death by Chocolate. Ticket prices are $12 for adults and $8 for kids ages 6 to 12. Senior matinee price also $8.

For tickets or more: www.libertylaketheatre.com

CIVIC & BUSINESS Sept. 27-29 & Oct. 4-6 | Fall Festival of Homes 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Presented by the

Spokane Home Builders Association, this 9th annual event will showcase the area’s finest builders and development in the Spokane area. For more: www.spokanefestivalofhomes.com

Oct. 2 | Candidate Forum: Liberty Lake contested council races 6:30 p.m.,

Meadowwood Technology Campus Cafeteria, 2100 N. Molter Road. Hosted by the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, the public is invited to hear the perspective of candidates on the issues. For more: www.spokanevalleychamber.org

Oct. 4 | Guest Speaker Lunch Series 11:45

a.m., Liberty Lake Portal, 23403 E. Mission Ave. People are invited for a lunch break filled with business insights. October topics include social media tips and tricks (Oct. 4), active threat training (11), protecting your intellectual property (18) and a Dale Carnegie class (25). Cost is $5 for lunch; registration is due Thursday at noon. For more: 343-0103 or www.libertylakeportal.com

Oct. 4-6 | Custer Fall Antique Show 4 to 9 p.m. (Fri.), 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Sat.), 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Sun.), Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. Over 200 dealers will showcase vintage treasures in all price ranges. Admission is $6 for adults; children 12 and under are free. For more: custershows.com Oct. 5-6 | Women’s Life and Style Expo 10

a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sat.), 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Sun.), Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. Enjoy unique shopping, beauty tips, jewelry and accessories and health and wellness products. Free admission and parking. For more: www.womenslifeandstyleexpo. com

Oct. 11-13 | Home Idea Show Noon to 8

p.m. (Fri.), 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Sat.), 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sun.), Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. Event designed for homeowners remodeling, landscaping and decorating. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for seniors/military; children 12 and under are free. For more: www.homeideashow.com

CHURCH DIRECTORY Greenacres Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

A traditional, family oriented church.

Sunday Worship Service 10:00 AM 18010 E. Mission - 926.2461 Established 1902 Member of CUIC

Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

WorShip Service 10:45 a.m.

Oct. 15 | Candidate Forum: Millwood contested mayoral race 6:30 p.m., Millwood

City Hall Chambers, 9103 E. Frederick Ave. Hosted by the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, the public is invited to hear the perspective of candidates on the issues. For more: www.spokanevalleychamber.org

Oct. 16 | Candidate Forum: Spokane Valley contested races 6:30 p.m., CenterPlace

Auditorium, 2426 N. Discovery Place. Hosted by the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, the public is invited to hear the perspective of candidates on the issues. For more: www.spokanevalleychamber.org

Oct. 18 | Greater Spokane Valley Chamber Business Connections Breakfast 6:30 to

8:30 a.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100 N. Sullivan.

Gonzaga women’s basketball coach Kelly Graves will be the guest speaker. Coffee and conversation begin at 6:30 a.m., program begins at 7 a.m. Cost is $25 for members and guests, $35 for non-members. For more: www.spokanevalleychamber.org

Oct. 24 | Witches Night Out 3 to 8 p.m.

See CALENDAR, page 31

23304 E. Wellesley, Otis Orchards, WA

509-926-9552

THE INTERSECTION CHURCH www.theintersection.info 905 N. McDonald Rd. • Spokane Valley Sunday Service: 9:45 a.m.

924-3705

THE CHURCH DIRECTORY For as little as $7 a month, area churches can share service times, special programs or upcoming events in The Current. Call or email to learn more: 242-7752 or advertise@valleycurrent.com.

Breakfast & Lunch aLL day Open 6 a.m. tO 3 p.m. 7 days a week

Pot Roast is Back, Every Wednesday!

Corner of meadowwood Lane & mission in Liberty Lake 509-924-1446

Beer, wine & Liquor served Fireplace dining in the winter

Brought to you by

October options

for fall fun

By Brenna Holland WAVE CONTRIBUTOR

Leaves are falling, school is in session, and the air is crisp—fall is here! This festive month provides kids, as well as adults, with opportunities for entertaining and giving back to the community. Here are some of the many autumn activities that will make your family thankful for Octobers in the Valley area.

Get lost in a corn maze

Hub Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo in Liberty Lake, is taking on a classic fall event to raise money for their HUB 360 afterschool program. The sportsthemed maze spans over 10 acres and provides challenges for the young and old to find a soccer ball, basketball, volleyball, baseball and football. The HUB also offers a Haunted Trail of Fear at various times. For more information on cost and hours of operation, go to www.hubsportscenter.org/cornmaze/.

Find the perfect pumpkin Whether you choose Carver Farms in Newman Lake or Green Bluff Farms north of the Valley, finding the greatest pumpkin in the patch can be one of the best ways to spend a Saturday. While you peruse the orange patches, check out other seasonal vegetables such as squashes, gourds and corn stalks. If you go to Knapp’s Farm on Green Bluff during the weekends, be sure to watch the Punkin’ Chunkin’, a catapult that launches pumpkins up to a quarter mile away! For more, go to www. carverfarms.com or www.knappsongreenbluff.com/.

Attend a harvest party

Many local schools, churches and other organizations host harvest parties during the autumn season. Millwood Presbyterian Church, 3223 N. Marguerite Road, is holding “Trunk or Treat” in their parking lot on Oct. 31 from 6 to 7 p.m. Kids and their families can safely enjoy hot chocolate and cider while making the rounds to collect candy and goodies from decorated car trunks.

Go to a Haunted Pool Valley Mission Pool, 11123 E. Mission Ave., is converted into a haunted house that intends to scare you right out of the water! Best for ages 12 and up, the event leads through the locker rooms and around the pool deck.

There is no swimming at the event, just tricks and scares on dry land. The event is held Oct. 18, 19, 25 and 26 from 7:30 to 10 p.m. and costs $3 per person (or $2 with a can of food). For more, go to www.spokanevalley.org/hauntedpool.

Give back in candy After a fun filled Halloween full of sweets and surprises, there is always extra candy about the house. Instead of eating all your candy, consider donating your extra treats to a wonderful cause. KiDDS Dental, 1327 N. Stanford Lane in Liberty Lake, collects candy for Operation Gratitude, an organization that sends care packages to those in the U.S. military. From 4 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 1, KiDDS Dental will pay a dollar for each pound of unopened candy from children who are accompanied by a parent. There will also be entertainment as well as a card-making table for troops sponsored by Dr. Scott Ralph, Orthodontist. Children attending the event will receive a goody bag with a toothbrush, coupons for restaurants and other trinkets.

WAVE FILE PHOTOS

Above and at right, Carver Farms in Newman Lake is hosting Family Fun on the Farm involving hayrides, caramel corn and apples from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. during October weekends.

Below, KiDDS Dental in Liberty Lake is offering its sixth annual Great Candy Buy Back 4 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 1. Candy and cards will be passed on to military members through Operation Gratitude.

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 27

COMMUNITY

Preparing the perfect pumpkin Compiled by Brenna Holland WAVE CONTRIBUTOR

Have you ever wondered how to create a magnificent jack-o’-lantern? If so, read on for some tips for safely selecting, carving and lighting your pumpkin masterpiece.

1) Select a pumpkin. Look for ones that have smooth skins, are ripe and are not dented. Try to pick a pumpkin that has a two-inch stem and is around nine inches tall.

2) Decide on a design. What do you want your pumpkin to look like?

Scary? Goofy? Pretty? Classic? Whatever you decide, make sure it fits to the size of pumpkin you picked from the patch.

Sketch your pattern with a pencil on a piece of paper using a stencil, a template or just free hand.

3) Cut out the top. Draw a circle or hexagon at least five inches in diameter around the stem of the pumpkin. With an adult’s help, cut out a lid using a pumpkin saw or other carving tool. Do so at an angle so that the outside edge is larger than the inside, which keeps the lid from slipping inside the pumpkin once it is hollowed. If your pumpkin does not have a flat bottom, consider cutting out the bottom instead.

4) Clean out the insides. Once the pumpkin lid has been sawed off, use a metal spoon or ice cream scooper to remove the inside pulp and seeds. Flatten the bottom of the pumpkin so that a

candle or light can eventually be placed to illuminate your designs. If you want a tasty treat, save the pumpkin seeds. Wash them, dry them and then place on a baking sheet.

Ask an adult to help drizzle with olive oil and salt, and bake at 400 degrees for 5 to 20 minutes.

5) Start carving. Transfer your pattern to the pumpkin by taping your designed paper to the pumpkin and then poking holes through the pattern with a nail or plastic tool. After that is completed, take a knife (with an adult’s help) and start carving at the center of your design and work outward. Begin with the smaller details, and be gentle when sawing out patterns.

6) Light it up!

Going to the dentist can be fun and easy!

Place a candle (votives work best) or an electronic light inside your pumpkin. Turn off the lights and admire your work! Just be sure to blow out the candle before you head to bed.

Sources: spoonful. com / hal l ow e e n / a pumpkin - car v ing primer, www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/ toasted_pumpkin_ seeds/

We’ve got convenient hours to fit your family’s schedule.

Evening, early morning, and Saturday appointments available.

DID YOU KNOW?

Call to schedule an appointment today!

• The word pumpkin came from the Greek word “pepon” meaning “large melon.”

509.891.7070

• Besides the classic color of orange, pumpkins can come in colors of red, yellow, white or green.

• The tradition of carving a pumpkin and lighting it with candles, often referred to as a “jack-o’-lantern,” is believed to have come from Ireland. The Irish used to carve faces into turnips, beets and other root vegetables as part of the Gaelic festival of Samhain.

New patients welcome

• Pumpkins are a fruit, but they are often referred to as a vegetable since they can be baked, roasted, steamed or boiled.

• Every year over 1 billion pounds of pumpkins are produced in the United States.

• The sweet dessert of pumpkin pie was invented in North America and is traditionally eaten during holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.

• In 2010, the world record size for a pumpkin was 1,810 pounds!

Source: www.sciencekids.co.nz/sciencefacts/food/pumpkins.html

APPS FOR THE SEASON Have a howlin’ good time checking out these popular Halloween apps made just for kids!

(Just be sure to get permission from your parents before downloading on your device.)

Check out our Facebook page for contests and events.

iLuv Drawing Monsters Mask Jumble Halloween Millie’s Book of Tricks and Treats MotionMaze Trick or Treat Peekaboo Trick or Treat with Ed Emberley 3-in-1 Halloween educational games

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The Current

28 • OCTOBER 2013 Brought to you by

About and for Valley seniors

Otis Orchards man spreads Musical Memories

By Brenna Holland

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Sometimes, all you need to brighten your day is a catchy, nostalgic tune. John Labbe, the one-man operation, owner and operator of Musical Memories, seeks to provide happiness memories through the art of music.

“I’m an old guy, playing old music for old people,” Labbe said.

“I’ve been performing for more than 60 years. I have extensive experience in the ‘60s playing in Los Vegas and Los Angeles.

I’ve performed from the Mexican border to the Canadian border.”

Labbe, an Otis Orchards-based musician of multiple instruments, including the sax, keyboard, bass, and clarinet, can play almost anywhere.

“It depends on where I go,” he said.

“There are different requirements. Some places it’s more of entertainment with jokes and banters. Each venue calls for a little bit of a different performance.”

On Mondays, Labbe performs dance music at the Corbin Senior Center. Labbe performs for monthly birthday parties at the Fairwood Retirement Center on Tues-

Just say ‘no!’

By Matilda Charles

KING FEATURES SYNDICATE

Nearly every senior I know has less free time in retirement than he or she thought they would. A big reason is that others assumed the new retiree would have loads of free time and would therefore be willing and able to ... (fill in the blank). In other words, the so-called free time quickly vanished under the requests of others.

A recent study compared quality of life with the amount of free time available to a retiree. It was originally assumed that more free time meant a better quality of life. Not so, researchers said. Instead, the management of the time we do have leads to a better quality of life. The researchers went so far as to suggest that seniors be taught time-management techniques.

I don’t know if that’s really necessary, do you? We spent the first part of our lives managing our time, either for work or family obligations, or both. What we need to learn upon first retiring is the word

SUBMITTED PHOTO

John Labbe performs another one of his Musical Memories. days. He also plays at the Eagle Club on sax and clarinet.

“For the birthday parties, I play soft background music and the favorite tunes people like to hear,” he said. “At the club we

“no.”

“Oh, you’re retiring? Would you please watch the kids during the day to save me the babysitting costs?” Answer: No. “Can we count on you to join the board at the senior center?” Answer: No. “Will you sign up to deliver meals to shut-ins?” Answer: No. No, no, no ... at least until you get a handle on your free time once you’ve retired.

Give it at least a couple of months. During that time, explore some of your options: a hobby you never had time for, uninterrupted hours in the library, sewing the new drapes that have sat untouched for years ... you get the idea.

Then, once you learn what “free time” you really have, maybe you can say “yes” now and then.

Obamacare scams

It’s one thing to read about how good scammers can be — and quite another to experience it yourself. I recently received a phone call trying to get me to divulge personal information to sign up for Obamacare.

play music people want to dance to.”

Labbe always possessed an innate love for music and grew up in what is now a fabled ghost town.

“I was born in Castle Gate, Utah,” he said. “My father died in a coalmining accident, and my mom kinda wandered for a bit after his death.”

Labbe graduated from high school in Salt Lake City and then spent 16 months serving overseas in the Korean War. After the service, Labbe spent time in Salt Lake City then went to Los Angeles to pursue a career in entertainment.

“I started as a sax and clarinet; when I joined a show group, I had to learn how to play the bass,” said Labbe. “In 1974, when I was in Tucson and the band couldn’t find a keyboard player, I took up the instrument. I sat down and learned how to play the organ, and when the organ became less popular I switched to the keyboard.”

In January 2003, Labbe moved to Hawaii for some change of scenery and the promise of peace.

“I was newly divorced at loose ends, and I had the opportunity to move to Hawaii and I said why not?” he recalled. “I spent

After I got over my shock that scammers were actually calling me, I decided to play along for a few minutes.

The trick they were pulling was to combine the new Obamacare signups with Medicare’s open enrollment, as through the two have anything to do with each other. Yes, they both start in October, but that’s all they have in common.

They asked if I have a credit card. I said yes. They asked for the number, talking very rapidly, not even listening to my questions. Their main goal was to intimidate me into giving my credit-card number.

When I refused, they said my Medicare was going to be canceled for not signing up for Obamacare, and I could go to jail.

If you get a similar call, hang up. Don’t even listen. No one from the government is going to call you about signing up for Obamacare or the Medicare open enrollment.

Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Send email to columnreply2@ gmail.com.

five and a half years, and I never intended to move back. In 2008, the economy collapsed and everything got so expensive on Hawaii. My retirement couldn’t handle it.”

Labbe spent his time in Hawaii in a semi-secluded home in the jungle with little technology.

“It was a great experience,” he said.

Now, Labbe is happily settled in Otis Orchards.

“I like the rural feel,” he said. “It is very peaceful.”

He spends his days throughout Eastern Washington brightening senior citizens’ days. In the past, he also brought joy to those with developmental disabilities.

When asked why he keeps performing, Labbe’s response was pure and altruistic.

“Let me put it this way,” he said, “I think it’s almost a calling or ministry. I can play the music that many people my age like to hear. Not many people can do that anymore. It gives me a lot of pleasure to perform. I bring a little brightness into their lives. People in the nursing home don’t have a lot to look forward to. To make them smile or sing along, gives me so much pleasure.”

Answers to Trivia Test 1. The Bay of Fundy in Eastern Canada. The difference between low and high tide can be as great as 55 feet.

2. The ovum 3. A cure-all 4. Peter Paul Rubens 5. Jockey Robyn Smith 6. 116 years 7. Rice-A-Roni 8. Eric Arthur Blair 9. Gene Autry 10. Spacely Space Sprockets

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 29

COMMUNITY

Trivia Test 1. GEOGRAPHY: Where does the greatest tide change on Earth occur?

2. SCIENCE: What is the largest cell in the human body?

3. LANGUAGE: What is an elixir?

4. ART: Who painted “The Judgment of Paris”?

5. ENTERTAINERS: Who did Fred Astaire marry in 1980?

6. HISTORY: How long did The Hundred Years’ War between England and France last?

Value of coal chutes depends on condition ‘Collecting’ by Larry Cox KING FEATURES SYNDICATE

Q: I recently acquired a coal chute that is marked “Majestic.” I’d like to know the value of it. — M.M.M., Decatur, Ill. A: Most coal chutes sell in the $25 to $50 range depending on condition and design.

Q: I have inherited a small cigar case that was handed out as a premium at the St. Louis World’s Fair. It is embossed with an image of the Palace of Transportation.

It is in fairly good condition. — Bill, Rio Rancho, N.M. A: I found your cigar case referenced in the definitive book about the mementos and memorabilia from the Fair, namely “1904 St. Louis World’s Fair” by the late Robert L. Hendershott. According to this guide, your case is valued in the $100 to $200 range.

Q: I was fascinated by the California Raisins characters and wonder if the

7. ADVERTISING SLOGANS: What product has been advertised as “the San Francisco treat.”

8. LITERATURE: What was the real name of the British author who penned “Animal Farm” under the name George Orwell?

9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Who was known as “The Singing Cowboy”?

10. TELEVISION: What was the name of the company where George Jetson worked in “The Jetsons”? © 2013 King Features Syndicate Inc. items I have are collectible. I have several key chains, a board game, a plush pillow and a coffee mug. — Steve, Austin, Texas A: The California Raisins were introduced in a TV commercial campaign in 1986. Originally there were four characters, but soon more than 21 designs had been added. Most of the items are dated. Typical values are Hip Guitarist keychain, $65; plush pillow of Raisin figure, $10; beach towel, $15; and lunch box, $25.

Q: At a recent yard sale, I purchased a Roseville bowl in the Rozane pattern.

It has a design that features floral and leaf patterns in pale green. When was it made, and how much do you think it is worth? — Susan, Tyler, Texas A: According to Warman’s Roseville Pottery by Mark F. Moran, your bowl is probably worth about $150 and was produced in 1917. There was a later line, also called Rozane, featuring a sleek, modern look in bright colors, including blue, green and terra cotta.

Write to Larry Cox in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or send e-mail to questionsforcox@aol.com. Due to the large volume of mail he receives, Mr. Cox is unable to personally answer all reader questions. Do not send any materials requiring return mail.

Where Wellness Is A Way Of Life

MOVE-IN SPECIALS

• Independent Living • Light Assisted Living • Walking Trail • Cottage Homes • Wellness & Fitness Center • Gourmet Chef • Assisted Living • Swimming Pool & Spa • Bistro

Community tours available daily! Please call to RSVP. Locally Owned and Operated by the Arger Family

• 509-922-3100 • 1201 N Evergreen Road, Spokane Valley • www.evergreenfountains.com

The Current

30 • OCTOBER 2013

COMMUNITY 8 THINGS TO DO THIS FALL Pumpkin and fall produce harvesting for groups, individuals and families.

the pool deck and in the locker rooms 7:30 to 10 p.m., Oct. 18-19 and 25-26. Participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for the Spokane Valley Partners food bank.

ADDRESS: 9105 N. Idaho Road, Newman Lake

ADDRESS: 11123 E. Mission Ave. Spokane Valley

Carver Farms

COST: Varies CONTACT: CarverFarms.com IF YOU GO: Please leave pets at home

COST: $3 per person or $2 with can of food Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

CONTACT: www.spokanevalley.org/hauntedpool

Mount Spokane Ski Patrol Ski Swap The ultimate new and used winter sports gear swap. Local stores and individuals can register their gear 3 to 8 p.m., Friday Oct. 25 and the sale runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and 9 a.m. to noon, Sunday Oct. 26-27 ADDRESS: Spokane County Fairgrounds 404 N. Havana St. Spokane Valley

Lords, ladies, knights and fairies dressed in 1545 English attire. Event includes jousting, archery in the Tournament of the Golden Apple as well as music, food, dancing and crafts. Proceeds benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank ADDRESS: Cowgirl Co-op 20424 N. Dunn Road Greenbluff COST: $10 adults; $8 students/senior; $5 youth 5-18; Scouts in uniform, Veterans and kids under 5 are free CONTACT: www.theguild2010.org

Scarywood Silverwood Amusement Park transforms into your worst nightmare with roller coasters and creepers galore during the month of October.

ADDRESS: 27843 N. Hwy 95, Athol Idaho

Maze raising funds for HUB

CONTACT: skipatrolskiswap.com

By Jocelyn Stott

Sept. 28 event begins at 1 p.m., and features hunting and fishing games, archery and fly-fishing demonstrations, hunter education, along with fish cleaning and prep.

ADDRESS: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 2315 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley COST: Free CONTACT: Madonna.luers@dfw.wa.gov

Spokane HOPE School’s Hoedown at Rockin’ B Ranch Oct. 8 fundraiser and hoedown begins at 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

ADDRESS: Rockin’ B Ranch, 3912 Spokane Bridge Road, Liberty Lake COST: $55 per person; $550 table of 10 CONTACT: SpokaneHOPESchool.org

Drop in Broomball Spooktacular at Frontier Ice Arena

CONTACT: scarywoodhauntednights.com

On Halloween — Oct. 31 — play broomball in costume or not. Like floor hockey with brooms, no skates needed. Raffle and prizes for kids 12 and up.

IF YOU GO: Prepare to be scared. Not recommended for kids under 12.

ADDRESS: 3525 W. Seltice Ave., Coeur d’Alene

Haunted Pool at Mission Park

COST: $10

The fifth annual Haunted Pool at Mission Park invites you to discover what lurks on

CONTACT: info@kyro.org or frontiericearena.org

COST: see website for individual and group rates

The HUB Sports Center Corn Maze is located just off Interstate 90’s Barker Road exit.

COST $5 which includes a free lift ticket to Mt. Spokane

National Public Lands Fishing/Hunting Day Fair Renaissance Fair

CURRENT PHOTO BY JOCELYN STOTT

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Bring the kids and grandpa, too: the HUB Sports Center Corn Maze, off Barker Road and I-90 north of the freeway, offers 10 acres of three sports-themed mazes in varying lengths with 18 prize stations where navigators young and old can get great deals at local businesses.

And, if you’re feeling brave, check out the Haunted Trail of Fear beginning Friday and Saturday nights in October.

The maze was designed by Phil Champlin, executive director of the HUB Sports Center, with help from corn maze design company Maze Play. The HUB maze features a baseball and basketball player, volleyball, football and soccer ball within its design.

Champlin said the autumn maze is a fundraiser for the nonprofit sports facility’s programs, like Hub 360 and other programs to support local families.

The after-school program HUB 360 supports middle schoolers from Greenacres Middle School with mentor-driven activities, including tutoring, skills building and physical activity.

The great thing about the maze, Champlin said, is that families and groups can choose the distance and/or how much they want to do.

“They’ll be getting exercise and interaction together, maybe without even realizing it simply because it’s fun and engaging,” he said.

Several local businesses have sponsored the maze by offering rewards at 18 stations, where maze-goers can punch a map

IF YOU GO: CORN MAZE WHAT: Three sports-themed corn mazes on 10 acres WHERE: Near HUB Sports Center off Barker Road and I-90 WHO: All ages for corn maze. Small children not advised on the Haunted Trail of Fear WHEN: Corn Maze: Fridays 5-8 p.m.; Saturdays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sundays noon to 5 p.m. (Fridays and Saturdays open until 10 p.m. in October.)

Haunted Trail of Fear: 6 to 11 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays in October. (Exceptions: Oct. 24, 27, 31 maze closes at 10 p.m.)

WHY: To have fall family fun and support the nonprofit HUB Sports Center COST: $9 for adults/teens; $6 children 5-12 and seniors and children four and under are free. The Haunted Trail of Fear prices are: $10 for adults/teens; $7 for children 5-12 and seniors and children under 4 not advised to participate. card as they find each location. Rewards can include discounts on frozen yogurt, pizza, coffee, golf and much more.

The maze runs through October. Group rates and times are available by emailing info@hubsportscenter.org. For information and directions, visit hubsportscenter. org.

The Current

COMMUNITY

CALENDAR Continued from page 25 Participating retailers include Simply Northwest, 11806 E. Sprague; The Trellis Marketplace, 4102 S. Bowdish Road; Jema Lane Boutique, 613 S. Pines Road; Tracy Jewelers, 106 N. Evergreen Road; and Vintage Vines, 106 N. Evergreen Road. Shoppers are invited to dress up in a favorite costume and shop hop to enjoy tasty treats, in-store samples and a chance to win over $1,000 in prizes.

HEALTH & RECREATION Sept. 28 | HUB Family Fun Festival 2 to 5

p.m., HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Celebrate the facility’s 6th birthday with a free open house offering fun activities for the entire family including fitness opportunities, jump house, face painting and food. For more: www.hubsportscenter.org

Oct. 5 | Walk for Wishes 8:45 a.m. to noon, Mirabeau Meadows, 13500 E. Mirabeau Parkway.

This 5K walk and family-friendly fun run will help generate funds to grant wishes of local children with life-threatening medical conditions.

Registration is free, but a $100 goal is encouraged for each participant to support future wish granting. For more: 206-623-5300 or akwa.wish. org Oct. 5-6 | Lilac City Open Badminton Tournament 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. The 12th annual tournament will be preliminary pool play with elimination rounds in each event. For more: www.hubsportscenter.org

Oct. 12-13 | Ultimate Table Tennis Tournament HUB Sports Center, 19619 E.

Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. The JOOLA North American Tour is adding this stop in the Spokane area. For more: www.hubsportscenter.org

Oct. 19 | Warrior Camp MMA Event 6 to 10:30 p.m., HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Tickets are $20. For more: www. hubsportscenter.org Oct. 20 | HUB Hustle Basketball Tournament 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., HUB Sports Center,

19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Boys and girls teams in 4th through 8th grade are invited to compete against other area teams. Cost is $125 per team. For more: www.hubsportscenter.org

Oct. 25-27 | Mt. Spokane Skip Swap

Various times, Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. The public is invited to this annual event for the best selection and buys on winter sports equipment. All proceeds support the Mt. Spokane Ski Patrol. Admission is $5 at the door, and children 12 and under are free. For more: www.skipatrolskiswap.com

Oct. 26 | Lilac Roller Derby 6:30 p.m., Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. The Lilac City Rollergirls will take on the Atomic City B team. For more: www.lilaccityrollergirls.com

Recurring Sports opportunities HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Badminton, basketball open gym, pickleball, and other options available. For more: www.hubsportcenter.org All calendar listings were provided to or gathered

by Current staff. If you would like your event considered for the community calendar, please submit information by the 15th of the month to calendar@valleycurrent.com.

OCTOBER 2013 • 31

32 • OCTOBER 2013

BUSINESS

The Current

Junobars the latest for SV energy bar maker

By Valerie Putnam

BUMBLEBAR INC.

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Named after the Roman Goddess Juno, the new line of the Bumblebar, Junobars, launched early August and are on the way to store shelves.

Bumblebars are a Spokane Valley-produced energy bar.

“Liz (Ward), the owner, came up with the name,” said Mary Jantsch, Bumblebar Brand Manager. “Juno is known for eternal youthfulness, energy and fertility.”

Junobars are handcrafted with a base of dates and quinoa crisp, providing consumers a tasty 45-gram bar that is rich in protein and fiber.

“They also have rice and hemp protein,” Jantsch said. “This gives them higher protein and fiber than the original Bumblebar.”

Since Bumblebar is considered more a niche bar, Ward and her co-owner husband, Glenn Ward, wanted to develop a more universal energy bar that would appeal to a wider consumer market.

The gluten-free, soy-free and dairy free bar comes in three different flavors: Apple Crisp, Brownie Batter and Peanut Butter Cookie. Certified organic, Junobars are a mostly raw bar, sweetened with honey, and do not contain any genetic modified organisms (GMOs).

“Liz is passionate about using quality ingredients,” Jantsch said. “She wanted to make a product that regardless of your allergy, you can eat.”

Brownie Batter and Apple Crisp Junobars also contain chia seeds, which according to Jantsch are known to speed up recovery after a workout.

To test the bar’s appeal, Jantsch did Junobar sampling events around the community, targeting children prior to its launch. The largest event was held at the Bloomsday Expo in May. “The feedback is good so far,” Jantsch said about children’s reaction to the bar.

“They are more willing to try it based on appearance.”

Junobar is currently available for purchase in local health food stores, Pilgrims’ in Coeur d’Alene, and on the Bumblebar and Amazon websites.

Jantsch said they are working out details about distributing the bar locally and nationally.

“Junobar is being sold mostly local for now,” Jantsch said. “We’re trying to decide if we want to distribute through the large distributors, or if we want to take a different approach and stay mostly on line.”

The base of the original Bumblebar is made of organic sesame seeds and sweet-

LOCATION: 3808 N. Sullivan Road, Building 12, Spokane Valley FAST FACTS • Bumblebar was created by Liz Ward in 1995, combining two of her passions, healthy food and sustainability.

• The original peanut Bumblebars were created in a rented kitchen in Seattle.

The Central Co-op in Seattle was Liz’s first customer.

• Bumblebars are distributed nationally, but can be found locally at Yokes, Huckleberries, Fred Meyer, health food stores and smaller co-ops. Both Bumblebars and Junobars can be purchased online at Amazon and www.bumblebar.com.

• Liz Ward has a history of activism.

At age 8, she began working in a soup kitchen. By age 16, she was cooking for hundreds of people every Saturday at the Soup Kitchen. She has volunteered to build a school in Haiti.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Bumblebar owners Liz and Glen Ward pause outside their display at a yoga event in Boulder, Colo., during the summer of 2011. ened with agave. The bar’s name along with a bee on the label represents the fact bumblebees are the first insect affected by pesticides.

“It’s funny because we have a bee on the wrapper but no honey in the bar, and that confuses people,” Jantsch said. “All our ingredients are organic. There are no pesticides. The ingredients are clean and not going to hurt anything in nature.”

As well as featuring organic ingredients, Ward is committed to using her business “as a tool for positive change,” and an activist for sustainability and ethical resourcing.

“We use business to help other people,” Jantsch said. “Our business model is ‘People, Profit and Planet.’ Having sustainable practices help benefit people instead of a company just trying to get money.”

Through Ward’s business, she has been able to contribute to solar panels in South America and help fund a school for a community co-op in Ethiopia.

“My desire to try to make a positive difference in the world is what inspired me to create Bumblebar,” Ward said. “I wanted to provide healthy delicious food to people.”

Ward was determined to create an all

organic energy bar using all natural ingredients. In 1995, the original peanut Bumblebar was conceived by Ward in a rented Seattle bakery kitchen.

Moving to Vashon Island in 1996, Ward married Glenn. He joined the company in 1997, leading the sales and operation.

Through his efforts, Bumblebar is now distributed nationally.

After moving the facilities to Tacoma in 2001, the Wards moved the growing company to the Spokane Valley’s Spokane Business and Industrial Park in 2004. Today, both the Bumblebar and Junobar are made at the Ward’s certified gluten-free facility.

Ward, who develops the recipes for all the Bumblebars, has expanded the flavors of the Bumblebar to fourteen different bars, including Amazing Almond, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Harvest Hazelnut and Lushus Lemon.

The company itself has grown to become a private label manufacturing company, producing five other bars on a regular basis.

“Something many folks don’t know about us is that not only do we make Juno and Bumblebars, but we also make lots of

• For four years, Liz Ward lived off the grid in the mountains of Oregon, growing her own food. After that, she moved to Seattle and begun work on creating the all-organic energy bars.

• Three varieties of the new Junobar launched in early August.

bars for other customers,” Ward said. “I create the recipes for them or sometimes the customer already has a recipe.”

On average, the company produces 200,000 bars a month, 50,000 of which are Bumblebars.

“I am almost always creating new bars,” Ward said. “I love that I can further my mission of supporting fair trade and organic projects around the world.”

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 33

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Biz Notes Kerns joins SHBA The Spokane Home Builders Association (SHBA) announced the addition of Nichole Kerns as marketing and communications director recently. Kerns has more than 10 years of experience in communications, marketing and event coordination.

Kerns is an active member of the Spokane Regional MarCom Association and previously served on KERNS its board of directors. She was most recently Marketing Administrator for Allied Fire & Security. Kerns graduated from Whitworth University with a bachelor of arts degree in communications.

STCU plans branch at CrossRoads Coeur d’Alene STCU and Hughes Investments announced plans for a branch at The CrossRoads Coeur d’Alene, a retail center where WinCo Foods will be the base occupant.

Hughes Investments plans to open CrossRoads Coeur d’Alene in March 2014

on 16.5 acres where sand and gravel were formerly mined. Construction of the credit union branch will begin within 18 months at the corner of Ramsey Road and West Appleway Avenue, said Scott Adkins, STCU vice president of lending.

The Coeur d’Alene site is one of three new STCU branch locations that are currently in the works to serve a rapidly growing credit union membership. STCU announced in February that it will open a branch on the main floor of downtown Spokane’s historic Hutton Building in the first quarter of 2014. Within two years, the credit union plans to open its Argonne Financial Center, on the south side of Interstate 90 at the Argonne exit in Spokane Valley.

STCU announces new director and staff promotion Susan Welberry, who worked for STCU as a teller from 1979 to 1981, recently was rehired as director of operational services.

A graduate of Eastern Washington University and Leadership Spokane, Welberry comes to STCU from WorkSource Spokane, where her most recent title was business services supervisor. She was community development manager at Global

WELBERRY

HANSEN

Credit Union from 2003 through 2008.

In addition, Dan Hansen, who started his STCU career in 2009, was recently promoted from senior communications officer to communications manager. A graduate of Leadership Spokane and Central Washington University, Hansen is a former Spokesman-Review reporter and editor.

Both the franchise founder and the local store’s owner have ties to the area.

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34 • OCTOBER 2013

SPORTS

The Current

Talented family playing big roles for Knights

By Mike Vlahovich

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

When John Phelan came west from Helena, Mont., to pursue his baseball dream, little could East Valley know at the time that the move would pay big dividends for its athletic programs.

He played at North Idaho College and planned to study engineering. Eastern Washington University was his only Division I offer, and he pitched a season for the Eagles. Then, “I got drafted by the San Diego Padres organization and got to play here in Spokane.”

A reliever, Phelan said he was “awful,” and after a year went back to EWU, which had no engineering program, and earned his mathematics degree.

Two decades later, Phelan is a math teacher at East Valley High School, the head baseball coach and football assistant — and two of his and wife Lisa’s three children are making their athletic marks as Knights.

CURRENT PHOTO BY MIKE VLAHOVICH

John Phelan, an East Valley High School assistant football coach, jokes around with son and standout JT Phelan during a recent practice. In the submitted photo at left from the first day of school, JT, right, is pictured with sister Jordan, a sophomore volleyball and basketball standout, and sixth-grade brother, Jace, who is a natural athlete himself.

JT, the oldest of three, has carved out a brilliant athletic and academic career at EV. He’s a three-sport All-Great Northern League athlete and carries a nearperfect GPA with his eye on a pre-medicine major, perhaps at an Ivy League school.

Sophomore sister Jordan is a second year varsity volleyball player, who in one match this year had an amazing 18 kills and 18 digs. In basketball, Jordan made second team all-GNL as a freshman.

in July.”

At one point, she and Jordan flew to volleyball nationals in Dallas, and from Dallas flew to Portland for a five-day basketball tournament, drove to Seattle for more basketball and later on to San Diego for more.

And JT insists his sixth-grade brother, Jace, is a more natural athlete than himself at the same age. Interestingly, both boys throw left-handed.

“I believe it happened because the boys were so active on a (batting) tee as babies, they didn’t want to put down the bat and take time to throw the ball back (right-handed),” Lisa Phelan theorized.

“I think it is ‘divide and conquer,’” John said of their schedule.

Jace was “left out of the loop,” Lisa said.

On a traveling team the year before, the 11-year-old had a benign tumor removed from his wrist and was on the disabled list.

Neither writes left-handed, she said.

While JT doesn’t consider himself a superstar, the opposition might disagree.

Two years ago, called on in a pinch, he pitched East Valley to a state baseball berth.

Earlier this year in football, he torched Sandpoint, catching passes for touchdowns, throwing for touchdowns and generally making life miserable for his foe. A quarterback until his sophomore year, JT changed positions and thrives.

“I envisioned myself as a quarterback and love it there. I still take some snaps,” he said. “I moved to receiver, and I was happy to do whatever to help the team.”

Part of that is the time commitment to the other two sports has forced basketball to play second fiddle.

with his club baseball team for tournaments lasting from Thursday through Saturday. But as hectic as the boys’ summers are, Lisa and Jordan’s schedule took the cake.

In basketball, he’s been a consistent double-figures scorer even though, he

Summer is time for football conditioning. JT and John travel for two months

This summer “was crazy,” Lisa recalled. “John told me I was home six days

says, “I’m terrible at basketball.”

Academics are every bit as important in the family. JT said his parents make sure the kids are doing their homework and doing well in class (he joking called his mother the “good cop” and his dad the “bad cop,” although Lisa said when they were in elementary school she was the bad cop). It was she who instilled in him a love of reading.

At 6-foot-3, JT is two inches shorter than his father.

“He’s got me (in height),” he says jokingly. “I got my looks from mom, that’s for sure.”

See PHELANS, page 35

The Current

Reflecting on my 1st decade as a coach

By Chad Kimberley CURRENT COLUMN

As the referee blew the whistle to begin my team’s first soccer match of the season, I took a quick moment to realize with the shrill tweeting of the whistle I just began my 10th year coaching high school sports. The irony is coaching for a decade was never on my future plans list from the time I had to write the essay in elementary school till the point I was declaring my major in college. Yet now I have 10 opening days on my resume.

I kinda fell into coaching. I was working as a youth pastor in southern Wisconsin when the local Christian school (which a couple of families from my church attended) had a need for a basketball coach. At times, I had thought about coaching baseball but never basketball.

I was cut as a sophomore in high school

PHELANS Continued from page 34

John did not coach his son until high school baseball. As linemen and linebackers coach, he has little contact with him during football season. They do talk occasionally in John’s mathematics classroom.

“I drop in once in awhile,” JT said.

“When I’m hungry, usually.”

JT’s success is predicated less on his physical tools than his intellect, John said.

“He can always improve his speed and strength,” he said. “The biggest thing is his ability to take what he sees on video and use it in the game.”

JT doesn’t rule out playing two sports in college — “They say it’s doable,” he said.

John and Lisa met in a class at Eastern

OCTOBER 2013 • 35

SPORTS because there were 12 sophomores better than me (I am guessing there were more than 12 but my pride has me convinced I was the last cut made.)

Yet a few weeks after being approached to coach, I was patrolling the sidelines in my first game as a boys basketball coach and losing by more points than I care to remember. In fact, losing was a common practice my first year, as we won only one game. The next year, the girls coach quit, and they had another candidate for the boys program but none for the girls, so I jumped from the boys bench to the girls’.

We won 22 games that year and lost in the private school state championship game, and I was hooked.

Now 10 years later, I find there are certain elements of coaching that I absolutely love and really only a couple of aspects I could live without (long school bus rides and parents who want to argue playing time right after a game — emotions are high, let it rest for a day, and we will talk).

I love the first day of practice. I am a teacher first and foremost and that first practice signals a new opportunity to teach, instruct, and explain our systems, sets and philosophies. This is the most important day in my opinion because it is also the first day we start developing the chemistry that will make our team successful.

I love building teams. I find it fascinating to take a group of students with all their unique personalities and abilities and mesh them into a winning team.

And when I refer to a winning team I want my students to win on the court, in the classroom and in their personal lives.

I love to cut down the nets. Yes, I

have the noble reasons of community and teaching that have stirred my passion in coaching, but there is nothing more thrilling than climbing a ladder at the end of a season and cutting down the nets signifying you have won an important championship. I have cut down a couple of nets while coaching basketball, and while coaching soccer this season, I told my guys that if we win state I am cutting down the soccer goal.

I love team dinners. This is in large part to my equal love for food, but genuinely I love hanging out with my team because my team is my second family. And having dinner with my family is something I love to do. We get to talk, relax, crack jokes, eat great food, and I also get a chance to hang out with parents and tell them how much I appreciate coaching their kids.

I love the referees. As I write this, I promise I am not trying to kiss up to the new referees I will meet as I get ready for my first season coaching at Freeman High School this fall. But I really do enjoy the banter, the friendly conversations, the at-times heated discussions I have had with the referees that have worked my games over the years. The refs have one of the hardest jobs as they have to make crucial decisions within split seconds and are guaranteed to have half of the crowd always booing their decision.

I love the journey. Each season is a long journey and from the first day of practice to the final game of the season there are so many ups and downs that they are impossible to catalog. I always challenge my teams to experience “joy on the journey” and take some mental snapshots throughout the season so that months, years and even decades later they can re-experience the joy that the season brought.

I love the eye-watering moments.

While in Wisconsin, I had a young girl who had special needs help out with our team. She was on my roster and cheered loudly for her teammates, and I always worked to get her in a game late but she would never shoot and seldom, if ever, touched the ball. During our homecoming game, we had a big lead late and we put in Alicia. I kept my seniors in the game so they could control the ball and get her an open shot. The ball rotated to her and she passed it away, the ball came right back to her and as everyone on the bench yelled, “Shoot” she launched the ball from like a shot put and from 18 feet away it touched nothing but net. Eight years later, it is still one of my greatest memories as a coach.

I could probably list out a dozen more things I love about coaching (such as justifying the hours of watching ESPN to my wife as “scouting”) but at the end of the day it is about the students. I love the optimism, passion and desire that comes from young men and women who are willing to sacrifice their time and talents to help a team accomplish more together than any individual could do solo.

Ten years down … hopefully a couple of decades to come.

Chad Kimberley is a teacher at Valley Christian School, where he coaches boys soccer. This fall, he begin a new journey as coach of the Freeman High School girls basketball team.

while he was earning his degree and she was adding a health major to go along with her physical education diploma.

They married in 1992.

He’s been an East Valley “lifer,” at first helping coach baseball, then becoming a substitute and part-time teacher before getting on full time in 1995, the year JT was born.

Lisa taught and coached at Freeman High and currently is the principal at Freeman Elementary.

“Lisa and I were both athletes growing up and thought about getting them into sports,” John said. “At the time, we didn’t realize the time it would take. We’ve been fortunate. We’ve been able to go there and be part of their experience. We’ve met tons of great people, and it’s been a great thing for our family.”

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36 • OCTOBER 2013

OPINION

The Current

What is my personal impact as a citizen?

By Gleb Liashedko

CURRENT GUEST COLUMN

Every individual is part of a community which is dependent on citizens to do their part. Every person should ask themselves, “What is my personal impact as a citizen?”

On a daily basis, we always impact our surroundings, whether at work, at school or maybe even around our friends, we all have a responsibility.

The PACE (Partners Advancing Character Education) trait for October is responsibility. We’ve all heard about it. It might even appear that we already know everything we need to know about it. However, in reality, do we really realize what responsibility is and how it affects our lives?

Responsibility is not something that has to be big, but it does require effort. We are all heroes in our minds, but when it actually comes down, how many of us pass by a candy wrapper lying on the sidewalk and bend down to pick it up? Many picture responsibility as something immense, and although it can be, it begins very small. As a student, your responsibility might be submitting your homework on time. As an employee, you must be able to do your job without being reminded to do so. Many do not realize the path to being a responsible citizen starts out small.

Have you ever given a thought to why some people become successful in their lives? Some of us dream of having everything we need in a split second, but nothing happens immediately. People like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates and Richard Branson did not depend on others to do their job. They

About the Opinion Page The Current wants to hear what’s on your mind. Interact with the opinion page with a le er to the editor (350 words or fewer), guest column (700 words or fewer; please send a mug) or via Facebook or Twi er: editor@valleycurrent.com facebook.com/valleycurrent @valleycurrent As with all content, opinion page submissions may be edited for space, style or clarity. This is a community newspaper, so be relevant to the Valley for the best chance at publica on.

“In all debates, let truth be thy aim, not victory or an unjust interest. And endeavor to gain, rather than to expose, thy antagonist.”

— William Penn

made a commitment, took on responsibility, and honored being accountable to themselves as well as others. My personal theme is “to go beyond expectations.” When I am presented with an idea or a project, part of my responsibility is taking on the job and completing it in a timely manner. I believe no job is finished when you think it might be finished. Sometimes additional undertakings are added on to make the final product better.

Responsibility is something greater than one can imagine. Finishing a simple task can influence a person, a group of people, an organization or even a corporation. Doing your part is essential to a prosperous community. We are all dependant on each other and when one person doesn’t honor his/her responsibility, everything dominos.

What do I mean by dominos? Well imagine this … your body has legs, arms, a heart, eyes, ears, a mouth, etc. What if one’s eyes “stopped functioning” — the entire body would be stressed out, confused and unable to find direction.

We might think that our actions have little impact, but it is not true. About 40 percent of Americans do not vote — that’s about 125 million. During this last election season, I asked one of my friends (who’s 18) why didn’t he vote. His answer was simple: “My vote doesn’t matter, because it’s only one person.” Now imagine if 125 million individuals had the same mindset. Maybe as a single person your impact may not be as great, but when combined with the rest, it’s beyond comprehension.

I believe not taking responsibility is a thought of “someone else will do it for me.”

Every day in our lives, we fail because of this sort of thinking. Many great leaders rise up to their positions by having the exact opposite thinking. “Nothing will get done, unless I take responsibility!” Leadership is responsibility. You must be able to carry your own weight before moving on to the next dimension. Throughout life you will work with many different people; however, you must do your part as if the final task depends on you and only you — that’s when you and your colleagues will succeed.

Gleb Liashedko is ASB President at Spokane Valley High School in the West Valley School District. In addition, Gleb is a student representative to the West Valley Board of Directors, and he also serves as a board member at Chase Youth Commission. He wrote this column as part of a monthly series highlighting the Partners Advancing Character Education (PACE) trait of the month.

In support of Initiative 601

By Rob Chase

SPOKANE COUNTY TREASURER

Does the ability to make partial payments on property tax — any amount at any time to fit your budget — sound reasonable to you? Add to that the elimination of major penalties, and pay 12 percent interest only and you have Initiative 601.

Currently in Washington state, partial payments are only allowed twice a year, ½ on April 30th and ½ on October 31st.

If someone misses paying the first half on April 30th the entire year is due and they are delinquent after that. The penalty for delinquency is 12% interest, but in the 2rd month (June) a 3% penalty is assessed on top of the 12% and in the 9th month (December) an 8% penalty is also assessed.

That adds up to a whopping 23% in the first 12 months of delinquency to a taxpayer who is already experiencing financial difficulties. It is like throwing an anchor to a drowning man.

How did we get to the point where the State of Washington is gouging these unfortunates rather than helping them? In 1982 interest rates were at record highs.

Since there was no credit reporting ramifications for late payments on property taxes, many people who could afford to invested their funds temporarily in high yielding investments, instead of paying their property tax. This caused an interruption to the cash flows of the Counties, so the legislature raised the interest rate from 6 % to 12%, and added 11% in penalties mentioned above. This solved the problem of taxpayers investing in other instruments, but it hurt people who were behind in their property taxes due to negative life events.

Let’s get real. Nobody wants to lose their home. Homes are places where we can close the door to the outside world and have privacy and reminiscences of family and friends we have loved over the years.

Homes are our biggest investment in money and memories, but many people stand to lose their homes if they become delinquent in property tax payments due to job loss or illness. Life is a roller coaster and it can happen to any homeowner.

As County Treasurer I have had people who are behind in their payments approach me about accepting a partial payment, but I have to tell them that Washington State has no law allowing me to accept a partial payment. In fact, I can only accept one full year with all the accompanying interest and penalties. They don’t understand why other states like Idaho accept partial payments, and we don’t. Even the IRS accepts partial payments.

Many of these people who want to work their way out then have to sell to entrepreneurs who are eager to scoop up their homes, or they abandon them, and they deteriorate to the detriment of their neighbors.

For all of the previous reasons I am endorsing Initiative 601 to the Legislature. It will force a straight up or down vote in the Legislature, rather than kill it in Committee as happened last session to the identical HB1430.

The Legislature did pass SB5705, but it requires an agreement with the County Treasurer at his discretion to allow an agreed upon periodic payment, but if one payment is missed the taxpayer finds him-

See 601, page 38

The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 37

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The Current

38 • OCTOBER 2013

OPINION Volume 2, Issue 10 EDITOR/PUBLISHER

Josh Johnson

GENERAL MANAGER

Tammy Kimberley

josh@valleycurrent.com tammy@valleycurrent.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT Janet Pier EXECUTIVE janet@valleycurrent.com

GRAPHICS EDITOR

Sarah Burk

sarah@valleycurrent.com

CIRCULATION Sandy Johnson Mike Wiykovics

circulation@valleycurrent.com CONTRIBUTORS

Brenna Holland, Craig Howard, Chad Kimberley, Valerie Putnam, Jayne Singleton, Jocelyn Stott, Mike Vlahovich, Bill Zimmer

On the cover: Current design by Sarah Burk

About

The Current 2310 N. Molter Road, Suite 305 Liberty Lake, WA 99019 P: 242-7752; F: 927-2190 www.valleycurrent.com

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601 Continued from page 36

self right back where he started. It also requires paying the current year simultaneously, which may be difficult to a taxpayer paying two years at the same time, nor does it eliminate the usurious penalties.

It is better to allow the taxpayer to budget his income to his property tax bill rather than having the Treasurer decide for him what to pay. If he goes on to accumulate a tax bill of 36 months than so be it, he will enter foreclosure, but at least he has been given a fighting chance. Furthermore, electronic payment also saves the Treasurer’s office time and resources otherwise dedicated to collection.

The Washington State County Treasurer’s Association opposed HB1430, and now Initiative 601, due to feared loss of penalty revenue, software challenges, and reduced cash flows to County coffers.

As far as the loss of penalty revenue goes, if the taxpayer has to tighten his belt in these stressful economic times, then shouldn’t the Counties do likewise and look for undiscovered efficiencies and waste? Besides, the loss of penalty revenue could be largely offset by more people who work seasonally or on commission who would be willing to pay 12% to budget their expenses. The bottom line is that these penalties are usurious to those who need our help the most.

All Counties across the Country, large and small, have the same software vendors who must conform to state law. There are already many states that allow partial payments so software challenges are not valid.

The idea that this would cause an interruption of cash flow to the Counties is also not valid. Counties have to maintain enough liquidity in their investment pools to meet all obligations and besides, on nearly half the parcels the property tax payments are escrowed and paid by the lender. Practically speaking, people who escrow are allowed to make monthly payments, so why not taxpayers whose homes are paid off or who choose not to escrow?

This is not a bailout to anyone. If someone goes to foreclosure the minimum bid at auction is still all the past due property tax, interest, and penalties.

The Save My Home PAC does not have the funds to pay signature gatherers, so consider volunteering to solicit signatures at public gatherings, storefronts, or even make an affordable donation at www.yeson601.com. Any one of us could find ourselves in this situation of delinquent taxes, and even if you rent, why not help a person in trouble?

Please join me in helping Initiative 601 make it to the Legislative Floor in Olympia for a vote by the Legislature.

Rob Chase is Spokane County Treasurer.

He lives in Liberty Lake.

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PARTING SHOTS Valley’s Vlahovich rightly named to Scroll of Honor The Current

OCTOBER 2013 • 39

By Josh Johnson

CURRENT STAFF COLUMN

I read Mike Vlahovich’s byline as an 8-year-old. I read Mike Vlahovich’s byline as a high school student. I read it as an adult, and now I read it as a contributor to our publications (see page 34 for his latest).

If you have lived in the Valley and remained informed about your community at all in the past four-plus decades, then you’ve read Mike’s stories, too. Whether you realize it or not is another matter altogether, and not normally one worth trifling with.

This month, Mike is Vlahovich is being honored by the Inland Northwest Sports Hall of Fame as the latest name on its Scroll of Honor, which recognizes members of the media covering sports.

Unlike many of the other names on the list, however, Mike has done it by and large by sticking to a sweet spot of high school students.

“Kids deserve to have their stories told,” he told me recently, explaining how he was always drawn to the amazing accomplishments of local students, whether it was the drama department or the football field. “...

And when they see their names in the paper, that’s a big deal.”

So Mike has done just that for 45 years — catching kids in their accomplishments and sharing it with the neighborhood. Indeed, when I recently asked him about a recurring feature I hoped he would help me with, he was angling on how to list as many names of kids in print as possible.

Not surprising for a man who was literally born into community journalism. Mike’s dad, John Vlahovich, took over as owner and publisher of the Valley Herald in 1948.

“I always tell people that in 1968 when I got out of the Army, I came back from Vietnam and interviewed for my first job — and my dad hired me,” Vlahovich recalled with his trademark jovial chuckle.

His work at the Valley Herald came to an end when his dad sold the newspaper in the early 1990s, forcing Vlahovich to interview with Jeff Jordan of the Spokesman-Review regarding a job with the daily newspaper.

Jordan was a longtime friend who he once covered at East Valley. He used to string for the Herald, and now Vlahovich found himself with the shoe on the opposite foot.

One editor — it wasn’t Jordan — wondered whether the weekly news hound could handle the daily grind.

“He told me, ‘You’re not getting any younger; you might have to write six to

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Mike Vlahovich, right, is honored by longtime friend and colleague Jeff Jordan after Vlahovich retired from the Spokesman-Review at the end of 2009. Vlahovich covered Jordan when the latter was a student at East Valley High School. Vlahovich will be enshrined in the Inland Northwest Sports Hall of Fame’s Scroll of Honor in an Oct. 22 ceremony. eight stories a week,’” Vlahovich recalled.

“I started laughing. I was doing 30 stories a week at the end (for the Herald), and I only had one reporter.”

Whether it’s running a weekly, contributing to a daily or even helping out his monthly brethren once in a while here at The Current, Vlahovich’s mission has stayed true to form: Turn the attention to the kids.

Let them shine, and build a little bit of community in the process.

And he has done it all with the respect of area coaches, community members and colleagues.

Vlahovich said he studied sports theory in college so he would know what was happening behind the curtain of games. The rest of sportswriting, he said, is just staying out of the way.

“I don’t use the word ‘I’ too often,” he said.

In doing so, he has been a treasure for local residents — and their scrapbooks.

Go ahead, dust yours off. Maybe you don’t read the bylines like I tend to. Chances are, if you’ve captured a keepsake from the past 40 years of Spokane Valley sports, it is stamped with “Vlahovich.”

Sportswriting glory is generally built around who covers the professional teams, or the NCAA tournament runs or the Division I football program.

To me, a far greater accomplishment is to cover a community. This month, Mike Vlahovich has earned his way onto the Scroll of Honor. He’s already held in higher esteem by thousands of local residents, whether

IF YOU GO WHAT: Inland Northwest Sports Hall of Fame’s 2013 induction ceremony, where longtime Spokane Valley sportswriter Mike Vlahovich will have his name added to the Scroll of Honor WHERE: Spokane Veteran’s Memorial Arena WHEN: Oct. 22, 11 a.m. reception followed by 11:45 a.m. luncheon and program COST: $30 WHO ELSE BEING INDUCTED? Athletes being inducted include former Spokane Chief Pat Falloon and track and field standout Carl Johnson; contributors include pro sports owner Bobby Brett, author and coach Jerry Krause and golf pro Gary Lindeblad; and Moses Lake radio broadcaster Mel Olson will join Vlahovich in being added to the Scroll of Honor.

THE OFFICIAL VLAHOVICH EVENT BIO (Courtesy of the Spokane Sports Commission): Mike Vlahovich, sportswriter, volunteer — In 2013, Mike Vlahovich reached his 45th consecutive year of covering prep sports in

the greater Spokane area, first as sports editor for the Spokane Valley Herald (24 years), then 21 years at The Spokesman-Review.

He’s covered more than 150 state tournaments — not games — every H.S. sport (18), plus assorted college sports, Hoopfest, Bloomsday, adult recreation sports, summer youth sports and more. Behind the scenes, the West Valley High School and Washington State University graduate spearheaded the Inland Northwest Sportswriters and Broadcasters athlete, team and coach of the year awards. For more than 40 years, Vlahovich has spent countless hours researching nominees and compiling and counting the ballots. He was also a volunteer and committee member for the annual Sports Awards Banquet and the Junior Sports Luncheon.

He has served as SWABs president for more than 20 years and is a 25-year member of the Inland Northwest Sports Hall of Fame committee. He has been a longtime volunteer for the Spokane Valley youth baseball league, serving as coach and schedule maker.

FOR MORE: Call 456-5812 or visitwww. spokanesports.org/sports-hall-of-fame.html

they know it or not. The proof is in the scrapbook, or hanging on the wall, maybe even folded into a wallet.

and the buzzer beaters. For a change, this a chance to applaud the byline. Well played, Mike Vlahovich. And thanks.

This month, we rightly take a moment, after 45 years, and ignore the game-winning field goals and the walk-off home runs

Josh Johnson is editor and publisher of The Current. Write to him at josh@valleycurrent.com.

40 • OCTOBER 2013

The Current