PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. Postage Paid Permit #017 ZIP CODE 99019
FREE
OCTOBER
2014
THE BALLOT IS COMING! PREVIEWING THE GENERAL ELECTION PAGES 6-9
NEW CHAMBER CEO BRINGING PASSION TO POSITION PAGE 27
Avid diner dishes scoop on breakfast in the Valley PAGE 28 • 10 local establishments that get it right • Fast food, chain and pub standouts • Remember Smitty’s and Sambo’s?
LIVE LONGER, BETTER
The secrets of longevity... from those who have lived to 100
SNAPSHOTS RECALL 25TH EDITION OF VALLEYFEST PAGE 39
PRESENTED BY:
Best-selling author, Dan Buettner and local leaders discuss creating a healthier community.
October 28, 6-8 p.m. Free Admission Spokane Convention Center
SUPPORTING SPONSORS:
NEWS
2 • OCTOBER 2014
Social Security...
The Current
MJ Bolt was elected to the Central Valley School District Board of Directors in 2011 and was integral to the formation of the Greater Valley Support Network in 2012, a collaborative effort to improve resources and stability for Spokane Valley residents.
Are you confused about when to take your benefits?
Social Security is the largest single asset many people have in retirement.
Unfortunately, most people don’t take the necessary steps to maximize this important income stream. You and a guest are invited to attend the Smarter Social Security and Retirement Income Planning workshop. Here we will be discussing critical information about how you may be able to maximize your Social Security benefits. You will also learn the importance of coordinating other retirement assets with Social Security to help maintain your lifestyle during retirement. Our events are very popular and seats fill quickly. Make your reservation today by calling 509-218-5761.
Presented by
Seimears Financial Group
website: myretirementvision.com Liberty Lake Municipal Library 23123 E. Mission Avenue Liberty Lake, WA 99019
Tuesday, October 14 at 6:30 PM or Tuesday, October 21 at 6:30 PM
CURRENT PHOTO BY CRAIG HOWARD
Nourishing the Network Bolt’s efforts shine through with GVSN, CVSD
A Cup of Joe
By Craig Howard
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
In high school, MJ Bolt established herself as an elite golfer, eventually earning a scholarship to the University of Iowa before transferring to Eastern Washington University. These days, Bolt has gone from driving the fairway to seeking out a fair way for her less fortunate neighbors to find stability. As the coordinator of the Greater Valley Support Network, Bolt works with local nonprofits, faith groups and elected officials to rally awareness and resources for residents facing challenges related to housing, nutrition, health and wellness, education and more. GVSN has been in place for nearly two years and currently features a mailing list of over 200 members. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month, committed to addressing some of the Valley’s toughest and most pressing issues. Since forming in the fall of 2012, GVSN has lived up to its networking mission, connecting residents to food, housing, appliances, clothing, dental care and healthcare by tapping into a vast range of resources. “This is about working together to help people,” Bolt said. A native of Weiser, Idaho, Bolt moved to the Spokane area during her sophomore year in high school and graduated from Mead High School in 1990. She met her husband, Brandon, while on the golf team at EWU. The couple celebrated their 20th anniversary in February and have two sons
— Austin, a University High School graduate and currently a student at Spokane Falls Community College, and Preston, a junior at U-Hi. As the parent of a child with autism, Bolt has educated herself on the best approaches to nurturing and supporting kids in home and school environments. She participated in the PTSA when her children attended Ponderosa Elementary and later served on the Council PTSA. In 2009, she was asked to co-chair CVSD’s levy campaign, one of several district funding initiatives she has been involved in. In the general election of 2011, Bolt ran alone on the ballot for the District No. 1 seat on the Central Valley School District Board of Directors. She has served as one of five board members since, fulfilling a term that will run through 2015. The Current caught up with Bolt recently between school board meetings, GVSN gatherings and an appearance at Valleyfest at the CVSD informational booth.
Q. A.
Where did the idea for the Greater Valley Support Network originate? Steve Brown, emergency assistance director at Spokane Valley Partners, and I were sitting on
See NETWORK, page 4
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 3
“ IT’S
THE LAW ”
Are your children wearing the correct mouth guard protection? With kids back in school and the community’s playing fields and gymnasiums full of young athletes embroiled in competition, this is an important, yet often overlooked, question. In fact, dentists estimate that between 13% and 39% of dental injuries occur while playing sports – most often to those most visible teeth at the front of the mouth. Roughly 80 percent of dental injuries affect at least one of the front teeth. That’s where sports guards literally come into play. They help prevent split lips, jaw fractures, the possibility of concussions – and of course those broken teeth. What sports should you use them for? I always tell people it is advisable to wear a mouthguard any time there is a strong chance of your head making any sort of physical contact. Today’s mouth guards are customizable in more ways than one. Our expert team not only fits a mouth guard to each person’s mouth for the best comfort and durability, but they can also be custom-designed with a favorite team logo and assorted colors to choose from. Protect your teeth in style. Call our $ office to learn more or schedule an appointment.
10 OFTFS SPOR DS GUAR
In WASHINGTON Click or Call Two Business Days Before You Plan To Dig
— Dr. Timothy J. Casey
pires Offer ex 4 10/31/1
www.CallBeforeYouDig.org
Liberty Lake resident Member, American Dental Association
1-800-424-5555 or dial 811 Inland Empire Utility Coordinating Council www.ieucc811.org
WE’LL MEET OR BEAT COMPETITOR PRICES. WE WON’T BE UNDERSOLD! M-F 7am to 6pm Sat. 8am to 5pm
Save now on winter tires!
16010 E. Sprague Ave.
924-1681
6 MONTHS SAME AS CASH O.A.C
It's our preseason sale!
www.clarkstires.com
Call us first for your tire needs.
TIRE SPOTLIGHT Nokian Hakkapeliitta
Tires starting at
The most advanced, safest studded tire on the market!
• Supreme grip in all winter conditions • Quick steering response thanks to added structural reinforcement in the center section of the tire • Combined anchor stud, flange design and Eco Stud cushion allows lower fuel consumption and quieter, lower-wear stud impact on all driving surfaces Clark's is an authorized dealer for the award-winning Nokian tire, as well as other great winter tires like the Hercules Winter HSI-S, Hankook Winter i-Pike RS and Goodyear Ultra Grip Winter.
BRAKE SERVICE
$
79
STARTING AT
95 PLUS TAX
Plus parts if needed, see store for details
Most cars/light trucks. Not valid with any other special offer. Coupon required. Exp. 10/31/14.
Winterize Special
$
54
95
MOST VEHICLES
• 2 Gal. Anti-Freeze • Inspect Belts, Hoses, Brakes & Tires
Most cars/light trucks. Not valid with any other special offer. Coupon required. Exp. 10/31/14.
$
79
95
OIL CHANGE & SEASONAL CHECK-UP
$
1995
• 45 point inspection • Up to 5 qt. of oil PLUS • Brakes, Fluids, TAX Lights, Anti-Freeze SYNTHETIC BLEND • Tire rotation ONLY $2995 PLUS TAX • $89 value
Most cars/light trucks. Not valid with any other special offer. Coupon required. Exp. 10/31/14.
Don’t compromise on winter safety! Instant Credit • Same Day Service • Customer Shuttle • Nationwide Warranty • Certified Technicians
The Current
4 • OCTOBER 2014
NEWS
NETWORK Continued from page 2
the annual needs assessment inventory for the Valley HEART (Homeless Education and Resource Team) Consortium for the second year in a row and realized that the gaps in services for those in need in the Valley were not just going to magically change without people coming together and doing something to cause that change. We had some services out here in the Valley, but we had no shelters and not any real consistent feeding program out here, and yet we had at that time 485 students identified in the HEART program just in Central Valley School District. Those numbers represent even more if you consider the family members, and this number had grown over 100 students just from the previous year. We had increasingly great need out here in the Valley — and yet not all the resources for our families. They would have to go downtown or somewhere else if they needed shelter, for instance, which increased the difficulty of keeping the student in his home school — one of the highest priorities of identifying HEART kids. We knew we had to do something different, not reinvent the wheel, and help a multitude of agencies come together to work outside of our silos to best help our most needy in our community. And we knew churches were eager to help our needy neighbors but didn’t know how to. That is how we got started. Q: In the time that GVSN has been in place, just about two years now, how do you think it has functioned? A: It is a fluid process for sure. We are still trying to figure out the right environment and structure to encourage ownership, responsibility and appropriate and meaningful action by our partners. Understanding the real issues and how best to effectively and efficiently help is a very complex conversation. Meeting food and shelter needs is very important; however, that does not get to the root of the problem. So we work on those things, yet we strive to dig deeper. The balance of understanding the real need, the resources already available so we prevent duplication, the partners wanting to be involved in a solution and then how to put that all together hasn’t been easy. But I am so amazed and impressed with those committed people and partners that we have to stay the course. We invite and have constant feedback and discussion on how to make it better. Q: How much has your work as a CVSD board member informed your work with GVSN? A: I don’t think we would quite be where we are as GVSN because I have had the opportunity to witness some pretty amazing processes through our school system that invite a wide range of ownership and input as well as accountability. That has helped
us to use some similar processes in GVSN to achieve the desired outcomes, and some of our school administration has been gracious enough to partner and share their expertise. I am constantly impressed with the processes that I see as a school board member and know that their partnership has helped us to have the momentum that we do. One of our district’s Initiatives has been Proactive Student Intervention, realizing that no matter how great we do as teachers and a school system to teach our kids, there is much outside of the school day that impacts our students and their ability to learn. Our district is committed to continue working on those issues as well, as much as they can, and their work on those things has given us some great information and research as well as some great how-tos. Q: Speaking of CVSD, what are some the board's top priorities as the most recent school year begins? A: We just adopted our new Strategic Plan, which I encourage everyone to look at and see the work our schools are committed to doing. Not only does it state our goals, it specifies how we are committed to measuring and the evidence we expect to see. It’s not just an impressive document, it is an impressive process that involved many, many community stakeholders and follow-up, follow-through actions. Using that as our guiding focus, we are committed to increasing student achievement for all students. In doing so, one huge obstacle right now is our facility needs. When we don’t have enough room in some of our schools and we have to bus kids to the other side of the Valley because that is the only place we have room, that is certainly not ideal, I think as many parents would attest. Yet, that is the best we have to offer right now, because we don’t have the room in a lot of our schools for our students. This is our community, our kids are our future and our community needs to understand that overcrowded schools don’t invite a growing economy. People want to move to a place where their children can go to their neighborhood schools, with the neighbor kids and get all the opportunities afforded to them through education all those that surrounding schools provide. Right now we can’t ensure that happens in every school. Another example we are facing is not being able to offer all the opportunities that students deserve because we don’t have all the lab science space needed to provide those experiences. This is a crucial time for our Valley and for our schools in Central Valley. The magnitude of the decision that will be made by our voters in February is great, and will have great impact on our ability to provide safe learning environments to support student achievement, impact our economy and growth in the Valley for years to come. Q: Before you were part of the board,
you were involved as a volunteer in several of the district's funding initiatives. What are your feelings as CVSD prepares to put a capital bond on the ballot in 2015? A: I hope our citizens really have the opportunity to understand the need, the true situation, and ask the questions that they need to to be an informed voter. We also asked and heard from our community about not raising taxes. And what we will put on the ballot is that we are committed to keeping a steady tax rate, not raising taxes. This is, I think, very impressive and responsible. Our district is committed to our schools being accountable to our citizens, as well as asking for their ownership in the process. These schools are a great part of our community. Our community has spoken, and we are committing to following through on our end not to raise the tax rate to do this. Now, it’s the citizens’ turn. I do hope people will engage. Q: Back to the topic of the support network, what types of groups are involved in this organization, and how do you think they've added to the discussion? A: We have schools and other government agencies, nonprofits and church organizations, as well as frequent visits from some of our elected officials — and many just caring community members represented. It’s been an extremely important part to have these diverse organizations at the table, as we are committed to help us all work outside of our silos. We have to see these issues as multi-faceted, and everyone has such amazing strengths to offer and resources to bring to the table. Q: Do you think the average Valley resident is aware of the gaps that are being addressed at GVSN meetings? A: No. I know just saying to most citizens I am in contact with that we have over 800 students identified in the HEART program in the Valley (at the end of the 2013-2014 school year) is for the most part, incomprehensible to them. Not all of these students or their families are “homeless,” but they are in a time of transitional housing and most definitely in a time of real crisis. Q: What can the average Valley resident do to help? A: Get connected with us. Ask to represent an organization you are already a part of, like your church. We are still in planning stages right now, figuring how best to act to make real change, but once we get our plans completed, we are going to need the resources to act. ... Having a list of people connected to our network to pass on information once we identify it is greatly helpful. Email me at bmjbolt@comcast.net, and I will add you to the invite list as well as to our communication network. We use our partners as gatekeepers to referrals for help. Q: Finally, what are your long-term hopes for what GVSN can accomplish?
In case you missed it Appleway Trail celebrated A groundbreaking celebration of the most recent segment of the Appleway Trail was held Sept. 17 at the site of the new University Plaza. A conceptual design for the project includes plazas, public arts, gardens, lighting, safety crossings and more. Construction on the section of the trail between University and Pines roads began at the end of August. Located just south of Sprague Avenue, the former railroad right-of-way is being transformed into a paved trail with green space for walkers, bicyclists and joggers.
County approves waste contract The Board of County Commissioners approved a contact in September with Waste Connections of Washington, Inc. that will ensure the continuous operation of the North County and Valley Transfer Stations. According to a press release, the contact covers operations, maintenance, transport and disposal services of solid waste materials received at both stations. Spokane County has worked to keep the gate fees lower ($101/ton) than the current rate ($105.59/ton), Utilities Director Kevin Cooke said.
String of fires worrisome A string of more than 20 fires set during the last two weeks of September has local firefighters suspecting a serial arsonist. The first and largest fire of the series, which burned between 10 and 15 acres, started late afternoon Sept. 18 along Saltese Lake Road in Greenacres. Four aircraft dumped water and retardant on the fire. Two fires to homes under construction were also considered suspicious. Most of the fires have been set in Fire District 8, located in the south Valley. A: I have dreams, most definitely. I want to see our Valley thoughtfully caring for our neighbors and the real needs of our most needy able to be met — not just trying to “Band-Aid” their need. I want to see us organize to identify what the real need is in community, then identify those organizations that are experts at meeting that need and help partner to bring those services to the Valley. I have to say, with the leadership team in place for the GVSN and the committed partners that have ownership in this process, I believe that we can do this. Our community is so full of caring individuals. I have no doubt that if we can thoughtfully put our minds and efforts together we can make a real difference, one student, one person, one family at a time.
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 5
SAME DAY EMERGENCIES INCLUDING
SATURDAYS Complete Family Care
Boutique Style, Affordable Prices Home Decor, Antiques, Vintage, Apparel, Accessories and Gifts Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm
(509) 482-0419
Implants, Crowns
SAME DAY
Cosmetic & General Dentistry • Extractions
• Sedation/Nitrous
• Oral
• Root
• Dentures
Surgery • Periodontal • Bridges
• 3D
CBCT X-Rays Canals • Pediatrics • Veneers
12415 E. 1st Ave. Spokane Valley, WA 99216 Behind Ron’s Drive In
Michelle R. Olmstead, DDS Scott M. Hager, DDS Kimberly A. Siler, DDS James M. Distler, DDS Tuesday-Saturday 11am-5pm
Music Equipment Vintage Audio Home Decor Antiques Furniture
1328 N STANFORD LANE LIBERTY LAKE, WA
509-891-5001
Accepting Most Insurances • No Insurance, Discounted Fees
(509) 276-0569
W W W. L I B E R T Y L A K E F A M I L Y D E N T I S T R Y. C O M
The Current
6 • OCTOBER 2014
Commissioner race pits McCaslin, French against Johnson Wilhite By Treva Lind
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
A race for Spokane County commissioner pits a political veteran against an opponent with a legal and health background who hasn’t run for public office until now. Incumbent Republican Al French is seeking a second four-year term following an eight-year stint on Spokane City Council. His Democratic opponent, Mary Lou Johnson, describes herself as a proponent of smart growth when considering urban expansion. French said he would continue a focus to expand the county’s economy and bring new jobs through existing industries and recruitment of companies like Caterpillar
and Exotic Metals. “My 35 years of experience in business recruitment and expansion make me uniquely qualified to bring jobs to this community,” French said. “I’ll continue my work to improve our public safety efforts and reduce the crime rate and keep our families safe. “I’ll continue to protect and improve our quality of life, protecting our natural resources and especially our Spokane River and aquifer. I’ll continue my work to protect Fairchild Air Force Base from closure.” Johnson, a Gonzaga University School of Law graduate and former nurse practitioner, said she pledges to support smartgrowth policies that benefit the entire
MARY LOU JOHNSON
AGE: 63
AGE: 67
FAMILY: Married, one daughter
FAMILY: Married, two adult children and two grandchildren
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Four years on the Spokane Planning Commission, eight years as a Spokane City Council member, four years as Spokane County Commissioner RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: University of Idaho degree in architecture with minor in business finance, licensed architect, licensed real estate broker, trained facilitator COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Currently sit on 32 boards and commissions from the local to region and state levels. Major boards include Board of County Commissioners (Chair), Washington State Association of Counties (Rep. Eastern Washington), Municipal Research and Services Center (President), Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency (Chair), Spokane Transit Authority Board for 12 years and chair for three terms, Washington State Building Codes Council HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Construction, woodworking, motorcycling
By Craig Howard
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
A year ago, Larry Crouse announced he would be stepping down from his position as a 4th District delegate to the state House of Representatives due
See HOUSE, page 7
DIANA WILHITE
BOB McCASLIN
AGE: n/a
AGE: 56
FAMILY: Married to Rick, a Navy veteran, one child, two grandchildren
FAMILY: Wife, Heather; daughter, Anne; son, Brian; and dogs, Zeva and Charlie.
CURRENT OCCUPATION: Owner of Wilhite Enterprises. Owned Safeguard Northwest for 33 years with Rick.
CURRENT OCCUPATION: Kindergarten teacher
See COMMISSIONER, page 8
AL FRENCH
CURRENT OCCUPATION: County commissioner, architect, investment consultant
battle for House seat
to health and family reasons. The Seattle native had represented the Spokane Valley area since 1995, becoming the most tenured House Republican in Olympia at the time of his announcement. In January, the Spokane County Commissioners appointed Air Force veteran and local Realtor Leonard Christian to serve the remainder of Crouse’s term through 2014. In the August primary election, Christian faced off against Bob McCaslin Jr., son of the late state Senator Bob McCaslin, and former Spokane Valley Mayor Diana Wilhite. Christian wound up third on the Aug. 5 ballot,
CURRENT OCCUPATION: Retired RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Attorney to federal judge, Eastern District of Washington; just over 17 years law clerk, Division III, Washington Court of Appeals; one year family nurse practitioner in private family medicine practice; eight years clinical nursing instructor, Intercollegiate Center for Nursing Education; one and half years as college health nurse; assistant director and director student health service Metropolitan State College, seven years; community health nurse, one year
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Elected to the Spokane Valley City Council in 2002; served as a City Council member, deputy mayor and mayor. Spent a total of seven years on the council. RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Graduate of the University of Maryland with a bachelor of arts in history. Also studied post-graduate political science at the University of Illinois.
COMMUNITY: Board of advisors, Gonzaga University School of Law; volunteer for reform of criminal justice system, creation of quality jobs, improving public safety, schools, church, VOA Crosswalks and River Clean-up
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Currently serves as a Spokane Valley Fire District Civil Service commissioner; state board member of the National Federation of Independent Business; board member for the Spokane Workforce Development Council and Spokane Valley Partners board member. Past community involvement includes serving on the board of trustees for both Greater Spokane Inc. and the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce; board member of United Way, vice chair of the Spokane Regional Transportation Council, Washington State 4-H Foundation board member, Inland Power and Light Board of Trustees, founder of the Spokane chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners and chair of the Eastern Washington University Business Advisory Council.
HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Reading, hiking, skiing, rafting
HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Reading, cooking, sailing
RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Juris doctorate, Gonzaga University School of Law, Dean’s Award for First Class; 1992 Mediation Training, Center for Dispute Resolution, Denver; 1985 MS community health nursing, University of Colorado; 1970 BS nursing, University of Minnesota with high distinction
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Grew up in a political family (son of Senator Bob McCaslin), great people skills. Have worked collaboratively with parents for the best interests of their children for 30 years, worked on Sen. Mike Padden’s campaign (2011) and served as a Spokane Valley planning commissioner for almost two years. RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Degrees in history and elementary education from Washington State University; master’s degree in administration from Whitworth University. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Volunteer chaplain at Spokane County Juvenile Hall (nine years); volunteer for the Union Gospel Mission (Spokane and San Jose, Calif., total of 10 years); I consider the fact that I haven’t held elected office until now a real plus. People are looking for a fresh perspective and common sense in their political leaders. HOBBIES AND INTERESTS: Played in a church worship band (as a guitar player) for 19 years. l enjoy keeping current with what is facing the city of Spokane Valley and what is facing our state government as well. I love to read historical biographies of people who have had a part in shaping our nation and state. I’m reading Ronald Reagan’s now.
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 7
Arritola challenging Shea in all-GOP battle By Treva Lind
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Citing a need for lower taxes and less government regulation, three-term 4th District state Rep. Matt Shea faces off against a challenger from his own Republican party, business owner Josh Arritola. “Specifically, my priorities are public safety, transportation and getting government out of the way of our small businesses,” Shea said. Arritola, CEO of the energy industry consulting business Haploos, struck a few similar chords on business support, job growth and completing the North Spokane Corridor. “I know the struggles of starting and operating a business in our regulatory climate,” Arritola said. “A completed (North Spokane) corridor is more than just convenience; it would create massive and sustainable economic development in our region, create 10,000 new jobs, save 9.4 million work hours per year and save 1.7 million gallons of gas a year.” Shea cited job growth by opening new agriculture markets. He also described potential pulp and paper industry revitalization “by legalizing the non-controversial industrial hemp crop,” for economic impact estimated in the tens of millions of dollars and creation of “hundreds, if not thousands, of jobs.” Arritola asserted what mainly separates him from his opponent would be providing representation for all voters and attendance at crucial meetings. He alluded to Shea’s April visit to Nevada, where rancher Cliven Bundy, locked in a grazing fee dispute, drew protesters as federal agents
HOUSE Continued from page 6
collecting only 24.54 percent of the vote. Meanwhile, McCaslin Jr. (44.08 percent) and Wilhite (30.11 percent) both advanced to the general election. As the Nov. 4 decision approaches — ballots will go out in the mail Oct. 15-16 — both candidates are making their case to spend the next two years as one of 98 legislators in the House of Representatives. If elected, McCaslin listed his priorities, in order, as “reforming government, promoting jobs within a strong economy and education.” Wilhite said keeping spending under control and balancing the state budget
attempted to seize cattle. “We need a representative who will be here working with business owners, teachers and community leaders, not someone who misses important meetings about the completion of the North Spokane Corridor and travels to Idaho and Nevada,” Arritola said. “I will be here focused on the district.” Arritola said he’s drawn endorsements from Spokane County Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich and former state Rep. Lynn Schindler. Shea, an attorney at M. Casey Law and an Army combat veteran, cited his action in Olympia as what sets him apart, along with always telling voters in writing what he plans to do to represent the district, and following through. He is assistant minority floor leader for the House Republicans. “I believe that what qualifies an incumbent for re-election is their record, their proven ability to build coalitions around issues of principle and their rate of success — what they have delivered in terms of representing their constituents,” Shea said. “In the last Legislative session alone, I worked across the aisle with 50 Democrat co-sponsors, and 12 of my sponsored bills were signed into law with an estimated economic impact of $50 million directly affecting Spokane County.” Shea said he will fight any attempt to raise the gas tax while seeking solutions for completing the North-South freeway that include, among the steps, prioritizing money for roads. He also backs reform to electronic home monitoring “because criminals and unscrupulous vendors are taking advantage of the current system,” and crimes
were her priorities, a know-how she said she’s gained from being a longtime small business owner. Both candidates have the advantage of name recognition among 4th District voters, so why should voters be swayed to their cause? “I am a man of integrity who believes that our district needs someone who will work together with our elected officials to do what is best to encourage business growth here,” McCaslin said. “Since I am endorsed by a majority of our City Council and both of our elected legislators here, it makes sense that I would be the best selection given that I have a great working relationship with them already.”
MATT SHEA
JOSH ARRITOLA
AGE: 40
AGE: 33
FAMILY: Wife, Viktoriya
FAMILY: Wife, Abby
CURRENT OCCUPATION: Attorney, M. Casey Law, PLLC
CURRENT OCCUPATION: CEO, Haploos Inc.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Three-term State Representative, Army officer and combat veteran, Constitutional attorney
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Served in the U.S. Air Force and founded my own company, Haploos Inc., that has created 46 jobs
RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in political science/ history, Gonzaga University; Juris Doctorate, Gonzaga University COMMUNITY: Republican Party Precinct Committee Officer, director Burning Boots Trail Club for Veterans, Allied Attorney Alliance Defending Freedom HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Playing the guitar, reading, writing songs, hunting, fishing, backpacking happen during monitoring. Among issues, Arritola backs reforms to the state’s foster care and adoption system. “Over 700 children in Spokane County alone are waiting for families, but our state has an antiquated, for-profit adoptions system where children are bought and sold for money,” he said. “Meanwhile, families wanting to become foster parents can’t make
ABOUT THE CANDIDATE BIOS All of the candidates for Spokane County offices listed on pages 6, 8 and 9 as well as the District 4 state representative races on pages 6-7 were given the same list of biographical questions and the same overall word count they could use to respond, meaning they could spread out the words among the questions in any way they decided. The responses were only edited for small style issues, not for content.
RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Lewis and Clark High School, University of Washington ROTC COMMUNITY: Antioch Adoptions, Life Center Church, New Covenant Foundation HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Cheering for the Seahawks, target shooting, golfing and playing with our Doberman, Tali
it through all the onerous paperwork and regulations.” Arritola and his sister came from a broken family, eventually abandoned and homeless. Arritola later graduated from college and was commissioned into the Air Force. “I’m running because I want to help kids like me go from poverty to success by hard work and God’s providence,” he said.
Wilhite countered with her own extensive experience: “As an elected city official for seven years, I gained extensive knowledge of state legislative matters. For the past 30 years I have been involved in community affairs, educational issues and governmental concerns. My years of business ownership have honed my skills as an excellent listener and a creative problem solver.” Both longtime local residents, McCaslin and Wilhite say their grasp of the most vital issues facing the 4th District will be central to their mission if sent to Olympia. “(The most important issues are) eliminating waste and fraud in our state government, business deregulation where needed, job growth, less taxes
and making sure we are encouraging and helping the 4th District to have the best schools in the state,” said McCaslin, a teacher at the Central Valley Kindergarten Center who said campaigning while working full time is “a good example of what being a representative is all about.” Wilhite said her visits with people throughout the district have helped shape as well as reinforce her view of a role within the Legislature. “As always, the most important issue facing this district and the entire state of Washington is providing services to the citizens in the most cost-efficient manner within the current revenue stream and without raising taxes,” she said.
The Current
8 • OCTOBER 2014
Meet the other candidates for Spokane County offices Compiled by Treva Lind CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Spokane County Assessor VICKI HORTON AGE: 60 FAMILY: Husband, Bob; two daughters, three sons and nine grandchildren CURRENT OCCUPATION: Spokane County Assessor RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Current Assessor, elected in 2010, 20 years as ad valorum tax appraiser RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO), Education includes: Residential & Commercial Appraisal, income approach to value, personal property evaluation, environmental contamination, disaster appraisals, Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice COMMUNITY: Education outreach programs for taxpayers on practices and procedures of Assessor’s Office, Eastern Washington Assessor’s Association Chairman 2012, Secretary Treasurer Washington State Association of Assessing Officers 2013, Assessor's Office adopt-a-family for Christmas, collected for Second Harvest Food Bank, made Christmas centerpieces for Transitional Living Center HOBBIES/INTERESTS: My family and I love to fish and go camping. I crochet, do counted cross stitch and read Christian novels. I especially like Ted Dekker novels
ROGER TRAINOR AGE: 56 FAMILY: Wife, Margaret Smith; son, Stephen (24), daughter, Rochele (18) CURRENT OCCUPATION: Self-employed Certified Real Estate Appraiser; Self-employed Real Estate Manager
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: 10 years appraising real estate; eight years elected school board director; lobbying in Olympia on behalf of landlords/tenants property rights and local schools; approved $40 million budgets, polices and union contracts; managed employees RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Master’s degree in public administration and bachelor’s, EWU; bachelor’s in criminal justice, EWU; John R. Rogers High School graduate; Leadership Program, Washington State School Directors Association; continuous real estate appraisal classes to maintain certification and license
COMMUNITY: Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (SNAP), current board member and past board chair; Inland Empire Camp Fire Council, past board member and board chair; Spokane Chapter American Cancer Society, past board member; Spokane Handweavers’ Guild, past board member HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Outdoors — hunting and fishing; fiber and textiles — sewing, knitting, tatting
ALENE LINDSTRAND AGE: 63
COMMUNITY: Current president, Spokane Landlord Association; member over 30 years, Spokane Landlord Association; parent volunteer, East Valley School District
FAMILY: Husband, Dave, of 33 years; my beloved Collies, Simon (10) and Karmel (4)
HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Classic cars, repairing any and everything, cooking, reading, exercise, travel, family
CURRENT OCCUPATION: Realtor specializing with boomers and seniors
Spokane County Auditor
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Election observer for five years; created a flier on specific voter education ballot processing concerns (did group presentations, too) over the past four years because nothing was available for voters; a small manufacturing business co-founder who prepared Pro Formas, all accounting activity, sales, operating equipment, hired/fired
VICKY DALTON AGE: 53 FAMILY: Large extended family CURRENT OCCUPATION: Spokane County Auditor RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: County auditor, 16 years; internal auditor, 10 years; CPA firm, 6 years; Washington State Association of County Auditors: past president, current chair of recording committee (public documents, marriage licenses); Secretary of State’s Office: current committee memberships include Statewide Voter Intent Standards, Archives Oversight Committee, Electronic Recording Standards Commission (chair); State Auditor’s Office: Local Government Advisory Committee, member representing counties. RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Bachelor degrees accounting and computers; CPA; Certified Government Finance Manager; Certified Elections Administrator
RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: University High graduate; bachelor’s in business, University of Idaho; multiple business management courses COMMUNITY: Spokane County Planning Commissioner; advisory board member, Good Samaritan; weekly volunteer, Spokane Veterans Home and Fairview Assisted Living; precinct committee officer; past president, Liberty Lake Lions; vice president, Spokane College Women's Association; Government Affairs Committee member at Spokane Association of Realtors; Sunday School teacher for 17 years; Homeowner Association Board member for eight years HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Skiing, golfing, gardening, crafts, reading, travel
Spokane County Clerk TIM FITZGERALD AGE: 54 FAMILY: Four wonderful children CURRENT OCCUPATION: Spokane County Clerk RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Thirty years in the U.S. Marine Corps, retired at rank of colonel. Leadership and executive-level management experience as a squadron commander for 600 personnel, and as chief of staff (Regional Command-Southwest, Afghanistan) for a 440-person staff with 19 directorates including legal, finances, administration and executive directorates, which is similar to the Clerk's Office structure. Substantial knowledge of legal processes, procedures and documents. Director of operations for the First Marine Expeditionary Force, a force of 55,000, responsible for manning, training and equipping this force for peacetime and combat missions. RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: BA in history from Virginia Military Institute, and MS in national resource strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces COMMUNITY: At-large member, City of Deer Park Airport Advisory Board; member, Spokane County Judicial Liaison Committee; member, Spokane Regional Law and Justice Council; youth sports coach HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Flying-aviation, coaching, camping, hanging out with my children
MARY WISSINK AGE: 57 FAMILY: Husband, Tom McGarry; four adult children; golden retriever, Maddie; sheltie, Gracie Rose; and flat-coat mixed-breed Blackie CURRENT OCCUPATION: Paralegal, Spokane County Water Commissioner for District 3
See CANDIDATES, page 9
COMMISSIONER Continued from page 6
county, “not just the lucky few.” “Spokane deserves a smart county government,” Johnson said. “This requires transparent and accountable public officials who are committed to making decisions that benefit all Spokane families.” French, an architect and investment consultant, serves on numerous public boards.
He cited as one qualification his belief in servant leadership. He also contends he brings outcomes as opposed to rhetoric. “I work to achieve positive outcomes for community initiatives,” French said. “Even my adversaries acknowledge publicly that if you want to get something done, you put Al French in charge. We already have too many public servants at the state and federal levels who just talk about issues but never take the necessary steps to make improvements.”
Johnson asserts that voters she’s talked to want a more transparent commissioner. Now retired, she also worked as an attorney in the Washington Court of Appeals Division III and the U.S. District Court. “I am honest and conduct my work transparently with integrity,” she said. “I have had successful careers as an attorney, a nurse and an educator. I bring a proven approach to problem-solving with experience in mediation skills that will allow me to bring people together.”
Johnson doesn’t see her lack past elective office experience as a detriment. “I have the expertise required,” she said. “We need to reform criminal justice, where 74 percent of our budget is spent. I have a legal background and have worked on reform measures. I was acknowledged for my help by the City-County Criminal Justice Commission. With my background in health care, I will reduce recidivism for the two-thirds of the people with drug addictions and/or mental health issues.”
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 9
CANDIDATES Continued from page 8
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: 26 years in the legal field, including 12 years judicial assistant to Michael Donohue, Superior Court Judge, Ret.; City Public Defender, Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Associate’s degree in advanced paralegal, BS candidate in criminal justice (2015) COMMUNITY: Member, Spokane Faith and Values; CurePSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy)
RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Law degree, Seattle University School of Law; Former Assistant U.S. Attorney; over 50 criminal trials, including murder cases
ville Police Department, Idaho State Police, and Spokane Police Department; leadership positions in police associations; consultant to National Institute of Justice and U.S. Department of State
COMMUNITY: YMCA flag football coach, Spokane Meals on Wheels, State Bar Association member, Spokane County Bar member; Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association member; Air Force Association member; adjunct professor, City University
RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Ph.D. in criminal justice, Washington State University; MA in leadership, Gonzaga University; MBA, Saint Leo University
HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Flying, running, racquetball, hockey, football, hiking, camping
HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Writing, exercise, football, aspiring golfer
Spokane County Sheriff
HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Catholic Church and religious activities; cooking and wine tasting, travel, dog training
OZZIE KNEZOVICH
Spokane County Prosecutor
FAMILY: Wife, Paula; daughters, Jessica, Jenny; son, Niko
BREEAN BEGGS AGE: 51 FAMILY: Wife, Laurie; children: Carter, Bridget, and Fiona CURRENT OCCUPATION: Trial attorney RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: In addition to 23 years of representing crime victims and holding the government accountable to the Constitution in numerous jury trials and at the Washington Supreme Court, I have managed three law firms, including the Center for Justice, and was selected by the Supreme Court to serve on the Access to Justice Board. I am most well-known for representing Otto Zehm’s family and cocreating Spokane’s Smart Justice movement. I began practicing criminal law in 1990 and am experienced in land use, labor, employment and civil litigation law performed by the prosecutor’s office RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: Graduated with highest honors from Whitworth College and University of Washington School of Law COMMUNITY: Sunday School teacher, youth soccer coach and board member and officer for numerous local and statewide organizations HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Basketball, gardening, science fiction and good government
LARRY HASKELL AGE: 60 FAMILY: Wife, Lesley; daughter, Elizabeth (39); sons, Michael (37), Chris (26), Tyler (19), Ryan (18) CURRENT OCCUPATION: Current Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, Spokane County RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Over 13 years of criminal prosecution experience; prior elected experience; executive-level leadership training and experience (USAF)
COMMUNITY: Advisory Board, Salvation Army; Elder, New Hope Christian Reformed Church
Spokane County Treasurer ROB CHASE
AGE: 51
AGE: 61 FAMILY: Married to wife, Chris, 34 years; four children, two grandchildren
CURRENT OCCUPATION: Spokane County Sheriff RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Held sheriff's office positions: patrol deputy, field training officer, property crimes detective, sex crimes detective, SWAT team operator and supervisor, patrol supervisor, training supervisor, director of the Spokane County Department of Emergency Management. Previous experience: patrol officer for cities of Olympia and Rock Springs, Wyo.; relief supervisor and school resource officer, Rock Springs Police; Town Marshal/Chief of Police, Town of Superior, Wyo. Peer-elected president, Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, and past president, FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) that develops leadership training. RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: 24-year career; attended the FBI National Academy in 2008; bachelor’s degree in management, criminal justice and marketing from University of Weber State COMMUNITY: Board member for the United Way, Daybreak Youth Services, The Salvation Army, Frontier Behavioral Health, Arc of Spokane, Boy Scouts of America, Christian Service Team HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Sports, hunting and fishing, community outreach, teaching Sunday school
DOUGLAS ORR AGE: 49 FAMILY: Wife, Stephanie; children, Will (24), Laura (22) and Jesse (19) CURRENT OCCUPATION: Spokane Police Department law enforcement officer RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Nearly 30 years’ experience in police work, including for Green-
CURRENT OCCUPATION: Spokane County Treasurer RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Mortgage origination, real estate, insurance, banking and manufacturing RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: BA Operations Management, EWU; certified in production and inventory management; American Production and Inventory Control Society COMMUNITY: Chase Youth Commission, Cup of Cool Water Ministries, AWANA, Sunday School teacher, precinct committee officer, Liberty Lake; served in U.S. Army Reserves, 1972-1978 HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Running, reading, writing
AMY BIVIANO AGE: 39 FAMILY: Husband, Andrew; sons Alex (16) and Aidan (14), both students at West Valley CURRENT OCCUPATION: CPA, business owner — focused on small business and nonprofit taxation, reporting and consulting for operations, efficiency and compliance RELEVANT EXPERIENCE: Tax and nonprofit accounting, 10 years, finance committees for YWCA and Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce RELEVANT TRAINING/EDUCATION: BA Yale University, MBA Gonzaga School of Business COMMUNITY: YWCA, Spokane Valley Chamber, Inland Northwest Business Alliance, lifetime member of Girl Scouts USA, mentor with the Epilepsy Foundation HOBBIES/INTERESTS: Marathons, baseball, football
The rest of the ballot ... The ballot that will be mailed to Valley voters this month in advance of the Nov. 4 General Election is highlighted by several issues and races on local and state levels, as well as a U.S. House race. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, a Republican currently serving a fifth term as U.S. Representative from the 5th Congressional District, faces Democratic challenger Joe Pakootas, who has served 16 years as Colville Indian Tribal Council chair. McMorris Rodgers is chair of the House Republican Conference and is the highest-ranking Republican woman. Pakootas lists experience as a longtime community leader and small business owner. Among initiatives, Measure No. 591 would prohibit government agencies from confiscating guns or other firearms from citizens without due process, or from requiring background checks on firearm recipients unless a uniform national standard is required. Also regarding firearms, Measure No. 594 concerns background checks for firearm sales and transfers. The initiative asks voters whether to apply currently used criminal and public safety background checks by licensed dealers to all firearm sales and transfers, including for gun show and online sales, with specific exceptions. Voters also are being asked in Initiative 1351 whether to direct the Legislature to allocate funds to reduce class sizes and increase staffing support for students in all K-12 grades, with additional class-size reductions and staffing increases in high-poverty schools A number of District Court judge positions are on the ballot, although a few of the candidates are running unopposed. Competitive races include Position 2, with attorney Chris Bugbee running against incumbent Sara Derr. For Position 5, current judge Gregory Tripp is running against attorney Richard Reierson, who currently serves as deputy prosecutor, Kootenai County. Position 7 has presiding judge Randy Brandt running against attorney Aimee Maurer. Additionally, for Position 8, current judge Richard Leland faces challenger Timothy Trageser, who currently has a private criminal practice. To get more election info, visit www.spokanecounty.org/elections.
Rockford levy for fire services The Town of Rockford has a proposed levy on the November ballot to finance 2015 fire protection services. If passed, this levy would replace an expiring levy the town has collected in past years. The measure would authorize the town to levy an excess property tax in 2015 on all taxable property within the Town of Rockford at an approximate rate of 51 cents per $1,000 of assessed value. The measure would raise $12,400 to be used to provide adequate services in 2015. The Rockford Town Council passed Resolution 14-04 to officially send the levy to voters. — Treva Lind
HISTORY Many recall Natatorium Park as an ‘old friend’
The Current
10 • OCTOBER 2014
By Bill Zimmer |
SPOKANE VALLEY HERITAGE MUSEUM
This is Seth Woodard and Howard Stegner again, providing you with an historical account of Spokane’s Natatorium (Nat) Park, which drew patrons from the whole Inland Empire, but primarily from Spokane and the Spokane Valley. As described in the book, “Dear Old Nat,” Natatorium Park was “a fantasyland for children, a haven for adults and a playground for everyone.” The park (then known as Twickenham Park) Twickenham Park was named after a housing development, and it began as a recreational destination at the end of a trolley line. In 1889, baseball was the main attraction. In 1890, a casino and hotel opened on the site, soon to be followed by a first-class restaurant. A military string band entertained 1,000 visitors with dancing from 9 p.m. to midnight. Twickenham Park continued to grow and included zoo animals and vaudeville players. Spokane Cable Railway, owned by Washington Water Power (WWP) and Spokane Street Railway both provided transportation to Twickenham. Within a short period, WWP controlled both railways. By 1892, visitors to the park could enjoy a ladies’ and gentlemen’s dining hall, a bowling alley and a shooting gallery. The following year, work began on a large outdoor swimming pool, or “Natatorium.” Seventy degree river water ran through the pool. An exercise hall and club room were also provided. Due to the popularity of the pool, the park was soon renamed, “Natatorium.” By 1897, special shows, such as balloon ascensions and parachute drops, entertained hundreds of people. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show and a visit by President Theodore Roosevelt drew especially large crowds. Between 1903 and 1906, competition from city parks, pools and lake resorts had an effect on attendance, though the 1904 fireworks drew 15,000. About this time, the Nat began to change. The first roller coaster
was located on a bend in the Spokane River, east of Fort George Wright. Following is a somewhat chronological account of Nat Park’s development and events leading to its closing. in the area came to the park. It operated at 10 mph. Other added attractions included a toboggan slide, a miniature railway, Shoot the Chutes, a circle swing, the Fun Factory, bumper cars and a circus and trained animal show. During this period of expansion, Audley Ingersoll was in charge of development, but after an accumulated debt of $29,000, WWP filed for foreclosure and took over the park. The company hired a professional gardener and extended and improved the water and sewer systems. Replacing the band shell had a major effect on attendance, as it attracted both the Spokane Symphony and the New York City Symphony. In 1915, John Philips Sousa provided 16 concerts, playing to crowds of 5,000 or more. WWP also replaced the namesake natatorium with an enormous “pool plunge.” In 1909, all children were temporarily banned from the park because of a scarlet fever epidemic. As the epidemic ended, additional attractions were added to bring children and parents back. The Looff Carrousel (currently in Riverfront Park) arrived, operated by Louis Vogel, Looff ’s son-in-law. A roller skating rink was added to the dance pavilion. Picnics consistently drew thousands to the park. On Aug. 4, 1914, attendance records were broken when 40,000 people took part in the 25th anniversary of Spokane’s great fire. That same year, the former dance pavilion was enlarged and returned to dancing. Bowling alleys and a penny arcade were added.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SPOKANE VALLEY HERITAGE MUSEUM
Above: Natatorium Park, shown here nestled alongside the Spokane River in a circa 1920s aerial view, included a baseball field and the Jack Rabbit Roller Coaster, among other attractions. At right: Natatorium Park was home to the region’s first roller coaster, installed in the early 1900s. This photo of the Jack Rabbit Roller Coaster was taken much later. WWP operated the park in order to promote the use of its street car operation, but as the automobile became more popular, street car revenue dropped. WWP then began developing plans to close the park, platting the property and putting it on the real estate market. However, the company continued to operate the park for anther 16 years, though by 1918, street car service had been discontinued. After World War I, Nat Park attendance increased as people wanted to celebrate. The Jack Rabbit and Ferris wheel were added attractions. WWP restored its street car service. In 1922, WWP merged with the Spokane Traction Co. and formed the Spokane United Railway (SUR), but with declining revenue the SUR put the park up for sale. Louis Vogel purchased the park, and though the “Great Depression” had some negative effect, attendance remained stable. Some people saw it as an escape from the effects of the depression.
Vogel raised admission to 25 cents for women and 50 cents for men. 1936 marked two major events. The SUR converted its railway system to buses, and the “Big Band” era arrived. The bands of Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Sammy Kaye, Phil Harris, Gene Krupa, Kay Kayser and many more performed at the Nat during the ’30s, ’40s and ’50s. By 1946, admission to some shows was $2. During World War II, business was good at the Nat as servicemen from Ft. George Wright, Farragut
and Geiger Field used it for relaxation on their weekend passes. When Louis Vogel died in 1952, son Lloyd and his wife took over. Lloyd continued to maintain the park and zoo, though attendance was dropping. In 1962, the El Katif Shrine bought the park, and after many months of repairing and refurbishing, it was ready to reopen. The first year went well, with the new owners adding a Palamino horse stable and drill ring, but by the second year, TV was added to the list of competing attractions, as were local lakes since so many people now had cars. At the beginning of 1967, the Shriners were still optimistic about the continued success of the park, but by the Fourth of July they decided to close the park. Within a year, the group began selling the rides and tearing down and burning buildings. The carrousel was dismantled and put in storage (until after Expo ’74). The question at the time of the closing of Nat Park was — what shall be do with the land which served the park so well? The final answer was Sans Souci West, a mobile home park. John Lemon of the Spokane Daily Chronicle summed up the feeling of many when he wrote: “A Disneyland it never was, but to thousands who can recall delightful hours there, Natatorium Park came about as close as anything to a child’s dream of heaven. When it was announced it is being closed forever, for many it was similar to learning of the passing of an old friend.” Bill Zimmer is a retired educator and longtime West Valley School Board member. For more about this article or other aspects of the history of the Spokane Valley region, visit the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum at 12114 E. Sprague Ave. or call 922-4570.
FOOTPRINTS IN THE VALLEY In this 2014 history series from the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum, “History Heroes” Seth Woodard and Howard Stegner will take readers on a tour of “Footprints in the Valley,” month by month, through photos, documents, articles and treasure hunts. This month: The history of Natatorium Park
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 11 CUSTER’S 39
TH
ANNUAL
Fall
Antique & ollectors C Sale
October 3 - 4 - 5, 2014 Friday
Saturday
Sunday
4 pm - 9 pm 10 am - 6 pm 10 am - 4 pm
Over 150 DealerS!
Thousands of Vintage Treasures: Reserve a private room for your holiday party! Check out our new fall menu!
Prime Rib Dinner
Every Friday Starting at 4 p.m. Best in town! Come early — always a sell out! Worth the short drive to Liberty Lake!
BARLOWS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • BREAKFAST UNTIL 2 P.M. ON SAT & SUN DINNER STARTS AT 4 P.M.
1428 N. Liberty Lake Rd. 509-924-1446
Homemade Soups & Daily Specials
Join us!
Community Connections 2014 Experience Central Valley Schools in an engaging way!
Kitchenware e Industrial e Estate/Costume Jewelry Furniture e Primitives e Rustic Garden Elegant Glass e Shabby Chic Decor e Textiles Prints e Retro and so much more! Presented by:
Spokane Fair & Expo Center Spokane, Washington 404 N. Havana Rd. - Free Parking
6 Admission
$
Good all weekend! Kids 12 & under free
509-924-0588 www.CusterShows.com
October 15 University High School • 12420 E. 32nd Avenue
October 21 Sunrise Elementary School• 14603 E 24th Avenue
Designed to inform and involve our community, seven events will take place inside our schools this fall, highlighting programs and strategies used to support student learning.
Central Valley High School • 821 S. Sullivan Road
Business, civic and community members are encouraged to attend and enjoy presentations by students and teachers with a focus on achievement, innovation and community service. All events will be held from 7:30–9:00 a.m. and include breakfast.
Adams Elementary School • 14707 E. 8th Avenue
October 22 October 24 October 28 Horizon Middle School • 3915 S. Pines Road
October 29 Spokane Valley Tech • 115 S. University Road
November 4 Ponderosa Elementary School • 10105 E Cimmaron Road
Space is limited... Reserve your seat by calling today! (509) 228-5400
COMMUNITY
12 • OCTOBER 2014
Banding together
SEAN BURGETT Favorite band Bayside
Biggest musical influence Seattle Cascade Drum and Bugle Corps
Music coach starts Rock Club to help students learn in groups
Favorite weekend activity Spending time with my son and wife
Guilty pleasure song “Flashing Lights” by Kanye West
Katy Perry or Beyonce
By Mary Kate Koch
Beyonce
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Sean Burgett has always known he wanted to pursue his passion for music as a profession. As evidence, Burgett still has a drawing he made in kindergarten of what he wanted to be when he grew up, and the picture is aptly labeled “rock and roll drummer.” Nowadays, Burgett is focusing on helping others realize their own music dreams with his new Rock Club program. Like most kids, Burgett got his first taste of music in elementary school in class and extracurricular. Burgett participated in choir, orchestra and concert band, but it was not until he picked up the drums that he found his true calling. Along the way, Burgett picked up the guitar, piano and a variety of other instruments. He stayed with the drums through high school and started a rock band that played local gigs. Burgett eventually auditioned for and joined the Seattle Cascade Drum and Bugle Corps, which tours the country every summer. This experience molded Burgett into a professional musician, and he soon began teaching private lessons. “The drum corps really pushed me to do things that I didn’t think I could ever do before,” Burgett said. “Summer programs like that turn kids into little rock stars.” As Burgett taught more and more private lessons, he saw that most of his students wanted to be in bands and not just playing on their own. Although he would put together students once in a while for a recital, these performances lacked cohesion because the kids had not really practiced
First thing I do in the morning I go for a run if I have the willpower to do it
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Music coach Sean Burgett, above, recently started the Rock Club to accelerate student learning and enjoyment by forming bands.
together before. “The idea from Rock Club came in May, right before school got out,” Burgett said. “I thought about putting the kids in bands full time because playing together and playing real shows is what they really want. Some of
Side by Side Counseling Services Spokane Valley Location Traditional and Art Therapy Medicare Provider Private Insurance Accepted
509-808-2653
Changing Lives Together ... Side by Side
The Current
Serving Liberty Lake since 1985 Residential and Office Cleaning Licensed and Insured Hourly Rates
the kids I teach — eighth, ninth and 10th graders — sound better than me on certain things because they practice so much. The drive is there.” The change in lesson styles is also a nice change of pace for Burgett. Rather than having to drive to private lessons across the Spokane area, Burgett’s band lessons are now based out of his home studio in Spokane Valley. Currently, Burgett has eight student bands practicing and performing together, four of which played at Valleyfest the weekend of Sept. 19. Burgett expects these numbers to grow as Rock Club gets its feet under it. Any interested kid from fifth grade to the 12th grade is welcome to pick an instrument to learn and join a band in the program. “Funny enough, I actually need more guitarists,” Burgett said. “I need two or three guitar players for a band and then one bass player and one drummer. I have a little too many drummers right now, but we make it work.”
Although the Rock Club website states it is for advanced students, Burgett encourages everyone who is interested to join the program. Burgett finds that students learn better and faster when they are in a group context than when they are learning in solo lessons. “I have actually had a few students who had only one or two guitar lessons, and I put them together with a bass player and a drummer, and they caught on quick,” Burgett said. “As long as they are all in the same pocket of experience, they learn together well. Of course, it also helps when the kids practice a lot.” Most of the kids prefer jamming out to classic rock tunes and learning cover songs, but some would rather write and perform their own music. Burgett has an audio engineering degree from Spokane Falls Community College, so he knows about music production and film scoring. While this technical knowledge is useful for putting bands together, it is also useful for teaching some of his more advanced students how to compose original material. “I’ve gotten there with a few students,” Burgett said. “The ones who really want to write their own music, I see a drive in them. I encourage that because I started writing songs at a young age, too, and I didn’t really know what I was doing. I’ll show them how chord progressions work, how to write down their ideas, and if something doesn’t sound good, then we just call it a jazz note.” As Rock Club grows, Burgett hopes that kids are better prepared to fulfill their musical dreams. Burgett also hopes that this translates into a better music scene for everyone around Spokane. “There’s this budding music scene in Spokane where a lot of the young kids really want to play music,” Burgett said. “Most kids don’t really learn how to play in a band until the latter part of high school, and I want to help kids reach that point of understanding before they even get to high school. I’d like to think that maybe in five years, we’re really going to raise the quality of local music in general around here.” For more, visit www.seanburgett.com/ rockclub.
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 13
Dr. Pamela, Naturopathic Physician, Licensed Acupuncturist
Helping Patients Begin and Continue their Pathway to Healing We are dedicated to bringing the highest quality personalized holistic health care to the Inland Northwest, which includes acupuncture, chiropractic, naturopathic and functional medicine. Our mission is to provide compassionate care, reliable information, and educational resources to assist you in your individual journey to health and wellness.
Dr. Jerry, Chiropractor
Natural Treatment Options:
Certified Acupuncturist
CarverFarms.com
www.
Family Fun on the farm Available Weekends in October:
Pop corn, caramel corn & caramel apples, plus free hayrides in our large, nine-acre pumpkin field (October 4th-26th, 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)
Monica, Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified in Family Practice
• Herbal Medicine • Naturopathic Medicine • Chiropractic Medicine • Sports Medicine • Acupuncture • Functional Medicine • Nutritional & Dietary Counseling • Vitamin & Mineral Supplements • Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy • Fertility Optimization Program • Family Medicine
www.LakesideHolistic.com
Liberty Lake
21651 E. Country Vista Dr. Ste. F Liberty Lake, WA 99019 (509) 385-0218
Coeur d ’Alene
518 North 4th Street Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 (208) 758-0568
Smiles Created Here
You have a personality. Our office does, too. When it comes to your teeth, our speciality is bringing out that one-of-a-kind smile.
Lyrics, Signs and Designers
Friday, October 24th 7:30pm
Holly,
t eceptionis R e ic f f ’s O Dr. Ralph
LIKE US ON
NO REFERRAL NECESSARY
Make Your Appointment Today
509.892.9284
LIBERTY LAKE: E. 23505 Appleway Ave. Ste. #204 SOUTH HILL: E. 3154 29th Ave.
www.DrScottRalph.com
The Current
14 • OCTOBER 2014
COMMUNITY
Calendar of Events COMMUNITY EVENTS Oct. 2 | 2nd Harvest Mobile Food Distribution 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Advent
Lutheran Church, 13009 E. Broadway Ave. Free food, fresh produce and bread will be distributed. Attendees are asked to bring their own bag or box. This event is co-sponsored by 2nd Harvest Food Bank and the Valley chapter of Thrivent Financial.
Oct. 3 | Into Africa dinner and auction
5:30 p.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100 N. Sullivan. This fundraiser will feature an African-themed menu and informational booths demonstrating the work in Kenya to help provide access to health care, education and clean water. Cost is $65 for individuals, $520 for a table. To purchase tickets or more: www. intoafricaauction.org or 720-8408
Oct. 4 | Friends of the Spokane Valley Library book sale 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Spokane
Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Proceeds from the sale of gently-used books, CDs, videos, DVDs and more support various library programs, activities and services. Get into the book sale a day early on Oct. 3 from 3 to 5 p.m. with a $10 donation. For more: www.scld.org
Oct. 4 | Finding Your Voice and Using It 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100 N. Sullivan. Connie S. Jacobs Consulting will present a communication/speaking seminar that will reveal the techniques and skills needed to communicate with boldness and clarity of intent. For more: www. findingyourvoicespokane.wordpress.com
Oct. 4 | Newman Lake Fire & Rescue Open House 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Fire Station
#1, 10236 W. Newman Lake Dr. There will be demonstrations from our fire fighters, hands only CPR classes, EDITH house fire safety trailer, kids games, and a chili cook off! MedStar is scheduled to land, and the Blood Mobile will also be here from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more: www.newmanlakefire.net or 226-1482
Oct. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 | Apple Fest 2014 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sat.) and noon to
5 p.m. (Sun.), Green Bluff United Methodist Church, 9908 E. Green Bluff Road. The public is invited to enjoy famous apple dumplings, craft vendors, entertainment and refreshments. For more: 979-2607 or ddavisp@aol.com
Oct. 6 | In Our Own Backyard: Fires and Forests in Eastern Washington
7 p.m., Spokane Community College lair, 1810 N. Greene St. The Spokane Community College President’s Speaker Series kicks off with photographer John Marshall whose presentation will include photos showing areas burned in the Carlton Complex this summer, the largest fire in Washington State history. The event is free and open to the public.
Oct. 8 | Tween Club: Minecraft Unplugged 4 to 5 p.m., Spokane Valley
Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Join other tweens in grades 4 and up for a variety of Minecraft activities, games and crafts. For more: www. scld.org
Oct. 10 | Men of Rotary Fashion show
6 to 8:30 p.m., CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place. The Rotary Club of Spokane Valley will
once again be presenting this event which includes silent and live auctions, raffles, a wine ring toss and a bead game. Tickets are $50 each or a table for $350.
Oct. 11 | Christmas/fall bazaar and rummage sale 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Otis Orchards
Community Church, 23304 E. Wellesley Ave. There will also be a car care event where car owners can receive a car wash and a free prewinter safety and winterizing checkup, weather permitting. For more: 928-1979
Six Spooky Events CHECK OUT THESE AUTUMN EVENTS FOR ADULTS TO ENJOY!
LATAH HARVEST FESTIVAL
10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Oct. 4 Latah (south of Rockford on Hwy. 27)
Oct. 11 | Find Your Family: Gift of Family History 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., LDS Church, 21022 E.
Enjoy some small-town fun with music, a beer garden, hayrides, pumpkin chuckin’ and more. Starting at 9 a.m., there will be a Poker Bike Ride (bicycles) benefitting the North Palouse Community Food Bank with 10- and 32-mile options.
Oct. 11 | SVFD Friends & Family CPR Class 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Spokane Valley Fire
For more: www.everydayrural.com.
Wellesley, Otis Orchards. For more: 893-2587 or www.giftoffindyourfamily.com
Azar’s and David’s Pizza. Tickets are $15 in advance ($20 at the door). For more: 742-5173
COMMUNITY THEATRE Local theatres are really getting into the Halloween spirit this year. You have a couple of options for a spook-tacular evening:
“This Old Haunted House” Oct. 24, 25, 26, 30 and Nov. 1, 2 Liberty Lake Community Theatre
Department Training Center, 2411 N. Pioneer Lane. CPR classes are taught by SVFD personnel one Saturday a month. This class is provided to the public at no cost and is a participatory course only (not for certification). To RSVP or more: 928-1700
DRIVE-IN MOVIES
8 p.m., Oct. 4, 11, 18, 24 Incredible Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch 3405 N. Hauser Road, Hauser
The Liberty Lake Community Theatre is performing a comedy about the renovation of an old house, a home improvement TV show, and a “wandering ghost.”
Oct. 11 & 25 | Leatherworking Basics
What could be more fun on a crisp fall evening than a drive-in movie? Grab a blanket and some snacks and get ready to relive the nostalgia of the drive-in.
For show times and more: www. libertylaketheatre.com.
10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Oct. 11: Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne; Oct. 25: Fairfield Library, 305 E. Main St. Stan McConnell will lead a twoand-a-half hour class which will give students an opportunity to make four coasters to take home. Aspiring leatherworkers will learn how to fasten suede and leather together, sand, saddle soap, burnish, stamp, monogram and seal. Registration required. For more: www. scld.org
Oct. 11 | Digital Photography for Beginners 3 to 4 p.m., Otis Orchards Library,
22324 E. Wellesley Ave. Tips and tricks for the beginner photographer. Learn about white balance, framing a shot, and going beyond the auto settings. Please bring your own digital camera for this interactive class. For more: www.scld.org
Oct. 14 | Digital Photo Editing for Beginners 7 to 8 p.m., Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave. Learn cropping and color correction, reduce red eye, and convert images to black and white with Graphic Designer Kim Harshberger. Registration required. For more: www.scld.org
Oct. 15 | Community Connections 7:30
to 9 a.m., University High School, 12420 E. 32nd Ave. Interested community members, business leaders and others are encouraged to come hear students and teachers spotlight key programs and innovative strategies used to engage students in learning. Also held the following locations/dates: Sunrise Elementary (Oct. 21), Central Valley High School (Oct. 22), Adams Elementary (Oct. 24), Horizon Middle School (Oct. 28), Spokane Valley Tech (Oct. 29) and Ponderosa Elementary (Nov. 4). To RSVP or more: 228-5400 or www.cvsd.org
Oct. 15 | Spokane Valley Book Club 2
to 3:30 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Join fellow book lovers to discuss “The Aviator’s Wife” by Melanie Benjamin. For more: www.scld.org
Oct. 18 | MS OctoBrewFest 5:30 p.m.,
Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. This annual event, which benefits
For a movie list and more: www. incrediblecornmaze.com
HAUNTED POOL
7:30 to 10 p.m., Oct. 17-18, 24-25 Valley Mission Pool 11123 E. Mission Although there is no swimming allowed, the pool is converted into a haunted house to provide attendees with a ghoulish time. Admission is $3 per person, or $2 with a can of food for Spokane Valley Partners. For more: www.spokanevalley.org/ hauntedpool
OCTOBREWFEST
5:30 p.m. Oct. 18 Spokane County Fair & Expo Center 404 N. Havana Enjoy a yearly tradition started in Germany but now celebrated all over the world. The evening will include microbrews (of course!), silent and live auctions, wine, gourmet soda and food for purchase from
“The Haunting of Hill House” 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29, 30, 31 and Nov. 1, 5, 6, 7, 8 Central Valley High School If you’re in the mood for something a bit spookier, check out Central Valley High School’s production which is based on the 1959 novel by Shirley Jackson. For more: www.cvtheatre.com
TRIVIA NIGHT AT FLAMIN’ JOE’S 8 p.m. Oct. 29 Flamin’ Joe’s 11618 E. Sprague Ave
October 29 will be Halloween-themed trivia. The game doesn’t cost anything, and your team can include as few or as many friends as you can wrangle. Flamin’ Joe’s gift cards are awarded to first and second places. It’s a popular event, so try to make a reservation about a day ahead of time. For more: 922-5052 — Compiled by Sarah Robertson, Current Contributor
the Greater Northwest Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, includes beer tasting; silent and live auctions; and wine, microbrews and specialty soda. Tickets for ages 21 and under are $15 in advance ($20 at the door) and are available at www.ticketswest. com, 747-5173, or at Yokes’ Fresh Markets. For more: www.nationalmssociety.org
Oct. 23-24 | Fearless Conference 7:30
Oct. 19 | Stop Violence Against Women Day 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Lincoln Center, 1316 N.
Harvest Moon Restaurant, 20 S. First St., Rockford. Hosted by the Rockford Lions Club, dinner, live music and a live and silent auction will help raise funds for the work they do in the community.
Lincoln Street, Spokane. The free Take Back Your Life resource fair is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The gala is from 4 to 7 p.m. and costs $25 per person ($30 at the door).
p.m., Cornerstone Pentecostal Church, 21326 E. Mission Ave., Liberty Lake. The public is invited to this two-day conference that will explore the hidden occult messages in song lyrics, music videos and concerts. For more: www. spokanecornerstonechurch.org
Oct. 25 | Dinner and auction 6 p.m.,
See CALENDAR, page 15
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 15
COMMUNITY
CALENDAR Continued from page 14 Oct. 25 | Craft bazaar 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.,
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
Millwood Community Presbyterian Church, 3223 N. Marguerite, Millwood. The sale includes lots of craft items, quilts, beautiful photographs and baked goodies. For more: 924-8607
Rockford Crochet Class 10 a.m. to noon,
Oct. 25 | Apps and Your Preschooler 10
Spokane County Library District Valley
to 11:30 a.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. This class will discuss how to balance screen time guidelines and how to evaluate if an app is right for your child. Registration required. For more: www.scld.org
Oct. 25 | A Knight at the Auction 6 p.m.,
East Valley High School, 15711 E. Wellesley. Proceeds from the tenth annual silent and live auction will support student activities. Cost is $5 and refreshments will be served.
Oct. 26 | PurpleLight event 7 to 8 p.m.,
Central Valley High School, 821 S. Sullivan Road. The candlelight vigil will commence National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in November by remembering those who have fought pancreatic cancer and honoring survivors. For more: www.purplelight.org or www.pancan.org.
Oct. 29 | Become Debt Free workshop
6 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main. Discover the state of your finances are currently and learn how to use tools that make debt-free living possible. A light meal with be served, reservation is required. To register or for more: www.stcu.org
Oct. 31 | Halloween Oct. 31 | Master Gardener training series deadline The WSU Spokane County
Extension is offering a 12-week class of in-depth horticultural information with weekly quizzes and a final exam. The class begins January 15 and ends April 2; each session occurs from 9 am-2 pm. In addition, participants must commit to at least 40 hours of volunteer time a year. Registration and a payment of $275 are required by Oct. 31. For more: 477-2195
Nov. 1 | Barn party and fall festival 6:30 to 9 p.m., Spokane Valley Adventist School, 1603 S. Sullivan Road. There will be food, activities and vendors for all ages including a bouncy house, dunk tank, box maze, a version of “Fear Factor,” face painting, bean bag toss, cupcake walk and more. For more: 926-0995
Nov. 3 | Candy buyback 4 to 8 p.m., KiDDS Dental, 1327 N. Stanford Lane, suite B, Liberty Lake. Candy can be brought and exchanged for $1 per pound during this event. The candy must be unopened and children must be accompanied by an adult. For more: www. growupsmiling.com
Recurring Café Card Club 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, On Sacred Grounds, 12212 E. Palouse Hwy., Valleyford. Play pinochle, cribbage or hearts. For more: www.onsacredgrounds.com Catholic Singles Mingle This group with no dues is for single adults of all ages. For more: www.meetup.com/Catholic-SinglesMingle Liberty Lake Library 23123 E. Mission
Saturdays. The Harvest Moon, 20 S. First St. Hairpin Lace, knit, embroidery, needlepoint and arm knitting of infinity scarves are some of the activities. For more: 892-4412 or 291-3722 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
Spokane Valley Eagles 16801 E. Sprague.
Breakfast served Sundays 9 to 11:30 a.m. Lunch served Thursdays 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by Bingo from 1 to 3:30 p.m. For more: www.foe3433.com
Spokane Valley Kiwanis 6:45 a.m.
Tuesdays, Valley Hospital Education Center, 12606 E. Mission. For more: www. spokanevalleykiwanis.net
Spokane Valley Writer’s Group 6 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 Oct. 1 | “Fiddler on the Roof” 6 p.m.
(auction) and 7:30 p.m. (show), Spokane Civic Theater. This fundraiser for Hearth Homes includes the classic production as well as wine, hors d’oeuvres and dessert. For tickets and more: www.eventbrite.com or 926-6492
Quality String Rentals VIOLINS * VIOLAS CELLOS * BASSES
(509) 496-4250 Lessons available in your area.
27th annual
Fall/Holiday Handcrafters Bazaar October 25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Millwood Community Presbyterian Church 3223 N. Marguerite Rd, Spokane, WA 99212
Handcrafts, quilts, photography & baked goods All proceeds go to community needs. For more information, call (509) 924-2350
Located in Otis Orchards!!
Kathrine Olson, D.D.S. • Gentle
Family Dentistry Patients Welcome • Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry • Teeth Whitening • Preventive Care • Relaxed Environment • Over 20 Years in Practice • New
Member American Dental Association & Spokane District Dental Society
210 S. Sullivan Rd. Spokane Valley
924-9596
See us at www.kathrineolsondds.com
Oct. 2, 5 | “Stocking Stuffers” auditions
6 p.m. (Oct. 2) and 2 p.m. (Oct. 5), Liberty Lake Community Theatre, 22910 E. Appleway Ave. All ages are invited to audition for LLCT’s holiday production; no experience or preparation needed. For more: www.libertylaketheatre.com
Oct. 3-5, 10-12 | Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike 7:30 p.m. (Fri. and Sat.)
and 2 p.m. (Sun.), Iginte! Community Theatre, 10814 E. Broadway Ave. Middle-aged siblings Vanya and Sonia share a home where they bicker and complain about the circumstances of their lives. Suddenly, their movie-star sister, Masha, swoops in with her new boy toy, Spike. Old resentments flare up, eventually leading to threats to sell the house. Tickets are $14 online or $15 at the door. For more: www. igniteonbroadway.org
Oct. 4 | Good Things in Small Packages: Spokane Symphony Ensembles 2 to 3
p.m., Fairfield Library, 305 E. Main St. Spokane Symphony Ensembles, two to five musicians, will be performing in with inspiring and educational programs for library patrons. Each program offers information on the instruments played with an opportunity for audience questions. For more: www.scld.org
Oct. 4 | This, That or the Other 8 p.m., Liberty Lake Community Theatre, 22910 E. Appleway Ave. This performance by LLCT’s comedy improv troupe is for ages 21 and older. Tickets are $10 and include one adult beverage. For more: www.libertylaketheatre.com
See CALENDAR, page 16
Intended for ages 12yrs. and older. Questions? Call the Spokane Valley Parks and Recreation Department at 509-688-0300 ~ spokanevalley.org/HauntedPool
The Current
16 • OCTOBER 2014
COMMUNITY
CALENDAR Continued from page 15 Oct. 7 | Drawing Fundamentals series
6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays, Oct. 7 through Nov. 18, Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne. Learn the basics of drawing with an artist from The Spokane Art School. This six-week series of classes explores the uses of line, shape, texture, value, and form, using a variety of materials. Learn to draw what you see from still life and photographs and compose interesting pictures using design principles. An introduction to color with pastels completes the course. Supplies will be provided. Registration required. Ages 16 and up. For more: www.scld.org
Oct. 10-11 | Cowboy Supper Shows
Rockin’ B Ranch, 3912 Spokane Bridge Road. This is the final weekend of the 20th anniversary commemorative performances. For more: www. rockinbranch.com or 891-9016
Oct. 18 | Big Bing Theory 2 to 3 p.m.,
Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. The Big Bing Theory (BBT) is Gonzaga’s student run, co-ed a cappella group. The group was founded in 1998 by Erica Heinz. Ever since then, BBT has been singing around Gonzaga’s campus and around Spokane. The group tours through the hometowns of its members during the summer and records a studio album every other year. For more: www.scld.org
Oct. 21 | Dessert and a Show 7:30 p.m.,
Central Valley High School, 821 S. Sullivan Road. The Central Valley High School Marching Band and Color Guard will perform their 2014 production of The Sun | The Moon followed by dessert in the Commons. For more: cvmbpublicity@hotmail.com
Oct. 24-Nov. 2 | “This Old Haunted House” Liberty Lake Community Theatre, 22910
E. Appleway Ave. Tickets are $12 for this comedy appropriate for all ages. For show times and more: www.libertylaketheatre.com
Oct. 27-28 | “Twain’s Tales” auditions 6:30 p.m., Liberty Lake Community Theatre, 22910 E. Appleway Ave. Roles for the readers theater production in November are available for ages 16 and over. For more: www.libertylaketheatre.com
Oct. 29-31 | “The Haunting of Hill House”
7:30 p.m., Central Valley High School Theatre, 821 S. Sullivan Road. Tickets are $10 ($8 on opening night) for this PG-13 play. Performances continue Nov. 1, 5, 6 and 7. For tickets and more: www.cvtheatre.com
Recurring Inland NW Bluegrass Music Association Music Showcase 7 to 9 p.m., third Saturday of
the month (October through May), Trent Elementary School. Bluegrass bands and related acoustic performers of all ages are welcome to attend. Cost is $5 for members; $7 for nonmembers. Ages 12 and under are free. For more: www.spokanebluegrass.org or 484-4668
Spirit of Spokane Chorus Tuesdays, 6:45 p.m., Opportunity Presbyterian Church, 202 N. Pines. Make new friends by joining this women’s chorus, specializing in four-part, a capella harmony in the barbershop style. For more: 2184799 Spokane Valley Camera Club 7:30 p.m., third and fourth Monday of the month (September through April), Liberty Lake Sewer and Water
District building, 22510 E. Mission Ave. Those with an interest in photography are invited to arrive at 7 p.m. for socializing. For more: 951-1446 or www.spokanevalleycameraclub.org • Digital night is October 20, fall colors field trip is Oct. 25 and print night is October 27.
CIVIC & BUSINESS Oct. 1, 8 | Draw the Line 7 to 8:30 p.m.,
Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. John Pederson, owner of Ethics Talks, shares his three decades of experience in business and personal ethics. In “Your Line in the Sand” on Oct. 1, he will provide a crash course in ethics, ethical style and whistleblowing. In the Oct. 8 “Pitfalls, Excuses, and Mitigating Circumstances,” John will talk about business vs. personal ethics and explore the question, “Why do good people do dumb things?” Attend one session or both. For more: 893-8400
Oct. 3-5 | 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 150 dealers will showcase vintage treasures in all price ranges. Admission is $6 for adults; children 12 and under are free. For more: wwwcustershows.com Oct. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 | Family Fun on the Farm 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Carver
Farms, 9105 N. Idaho Road, Newman Lake. In addition to autumn harvest items for sale, the farm is offering free hayrides in their nine-acre pumpkin field, weather permitting. For more: www.carverfarms. com or 226-3602
and help our businesses grow by sharing our contacts, providing referrals, knowledge, products and services. Men are also welcome to join in this free event. For more: Charity@ thefamilyguide.org or 928-9664
Oct. 17 | Business Connections Breakfast 7 a.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100
N. Sullivan. There will be a sheriff’s debate between Ozzie Knezovich and Doug Orr. Cost is $25 for members and guests ($35 for nonmembers) and includes breakfast. For more: www.spokanevalleychamber.org
Oct. 17-19 | Bead Stampede Noon to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, Ag Bldg. B, 404 N. Havana St. Vendors from the surrounding Northwest region display a selection of glass, stone, silver, bone and ceramic beads among other varieties for show and sale. For more: www.zizbead.com Oct. 17 | Harvest Moon and Hallowine Auction 5:30 to 9 p.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel,
1100 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. 17-19 | Washington State Quilters
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. This annual three-day quilt show, the largest in Eastern Washington, There are five of us. highlights the work Oct. 10-12 | Home of several hundred There are 100,000 of you. Idea Show Noon to local and regional 8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. quilters. The show Help shape your community to 7 p.m. Saturday includes traditional, newspaper! Submit story ideas, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. modern and art quilts Sunday; Spokane news items, letters to the editor: on display, as well as County Fair and editor@valleycurrent.com a quilter’s boutique Expo Center, 404 N. and merchant mall. Havana St. Designed Demonstrations for homeowners in and lectures offered throughout the show. all stages of remodeling, landscaping and Admission $8 — good all weekend. For more: decorating their homes, the Home Show www.wsqspokane.org inspires with countless ideas on enhancing your home’s comfort and functionality, its aesthetic appeal and overall value. For more: www.homeideashow.com
Oct. 12 | Spokane Model Train Fall Show 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, Ag Bldgs. C & D, 404 N. Havana St. Featuring 100 vendors with close to 200 tables of railroad art, artifacts, photos, videos and all scales of model trains for sale. Plus, at least five operating model train layouts in various scales and model railroad clinics offered throughout the day. Adults $6.00, kids 12 and under free. For more: www. rivercitymodelers.org
Oct. 14 | Smarter Social Security and Retirement Income Planning 6:30
Oct. 18 | Salon Vogue open house 10
a.m. to 4 p.m., Salon Vogue, 18507 E. Appleway Ave., Spokane Valley. The public is invited for refreshments, raffles and tours throughout the day. For more: www.salonvoguespokane.com
Oct. 23 | Witches Night Out 3 to 8 p.m.
Participating retailers include Simply Northwest, 11806 E. Sprague; The Trellis Marketplace, 4102 S. Bowdish Road; Jema Lane Boutique, 613 S. Pines Road; and Trovato Interiors, 18 S. Union Road. Shoppers are invited to dress up in a favorite costume and shop hop to enjoy tasty treats, in-store specials and a chance to win over $1,000 in prizes. Retailers will also be collecting diaper, blanket and formula donations for the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery.
p.m., Liberty Lake Municipal Library, 23123 E. Mission Ave. Presented by Seimears Financial Group, the public is welcome to learn information about how to maximize your social security benefits. Also presented Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m. To RSVP or more: 218-5761 or www. myretirementvision.com
Oct. 23 | Katherine Morgan welcome reception 5 to 7 p.m., CenterPlace, 2426 N.
Oct. 16 | Pretty in Pink 5 to 8 p.m., The
Oct. 25 & 26 | Inland Empire Coin & Stamp Show 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and
Roadhouse, 20 N. Raymond Road. Join with a network of women professionals from Spokane and Idaho who support one another
Discovery Place. The public is invited to a press conference and social gathering to welcome the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber’s new president and CEO, Katherine Morgan. For more: www.spokanevalleychamber.org
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place. This fall show features coin
and stamp dealers from around the Northwest. Admission is $2, kids 12 and under are free. For more: www.iecc-wa.org
HEALTH & RECREATION Oct. 4-5 | Lilac City Badminton Tournament 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., HUB Sports
Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave. Cost is $20 for first event and $10 for each additional event. For more: www.hubsportscenter.org
Oct. 4 | October-Fist Martial Arts Tournament 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., HUB Sports
Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave. Cost is $35 for first event and $10 for each additional event. Spectators can gain admission for $5. For more: www.hubsportscenter.org
Oct. 4 | Holistic Festival 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., CenterPlace at Mirabeau Point Park, 2426 N. Discovery Place. Over 50 booths and free lectures are part of the day. For more: www. holisticfestivals.com or 468-9001 Oct. 11-12 | Ultimate Table Tennis Tournament HUB Sports Center, 19619 E.
Cataldo Ave. This second annual event is a sanctioned event hosted in collaboration with the Spokane Sports Commission. For more: www.hubsportscenter.org
Oct. 19 | Bulldog Bash Collegiate Club Volleyball Tournament 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave. For more: www.hubsportscenter.org
Oct. 24-26 | Mt. Spokane Ski Swap
Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. Buy new or used gear — more than 22,000 items will be available at the Swap, for all skill levels and price ranges. Or sell your used equipment — clear out that gear cluttering up your garage and make some quick cash. Purchase admission tickets online and receive special benefits. For more: www. skipatrolskiswap.com
Oct. 28 | Live Longer, Better 6 to 8 p.m., Spokane Convention Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. Presented by Providence Health Care and Eastern Washington University, author Dan Buettner and a panel of local leaders will discuss creating a healthier community. Admission is free.
Recurring KidFIT Spokane HUB Sports Center, 19619
E. Cataldo Ave. This children’s movement and fitness program offers classes in dance (ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop), gymnastics and cheerleading for girls and boys ages 3 and older of all levels. Join anytime. For more: 953-7501 or www. kidfitspokane.com
Liberty Lake Running Club 6 p.m.
Thursdays, Twisp Café & Coffee House, 23505 E. Appleway Ave. The club meets for a threemile run weekly through October. For more: kathyawhybrew@msn.com or 924-9806
Sports opportunities HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Badminton, basketball open gym, pickleball, Zumba and other recreational 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.
The Current
COMMUNITY
Community Briefs Submit photos for contest
OCTOBER 2014 • 17
CHURCH DIRECTORY S
W
S
S
Summer graduates
Spokane Valley: Benjamin Holz, Nicholas Kim, Alexandria Marquard
Bus
ine
ss & Co m
mu
nit
y D ir
The 2015 One Valley Business and Community Directory is the Valley's premier resource for making local connections.
ect
o ry
IT Y
Western Washington University
2014
M UN
Liberty Lake: Cj Marie James, Malia Iwalani Listella, Breanne Jackee Stachofsky Otis Orchards: Robin M Sandall Spokane Valley: Sabrita A Cohen, Oksana Garbuz, Daniel Michael Kroetch, Katherine Rose StewartWhite, Robyn Marie Supnet
Connecting neighbors with neighbors
CO M
President’s Honor Roll, 3.5+ GPA
The winner’s photo will be highlighted on the cover, and other selected images will be featured in the 2015 One Valley Directory. Prizes will be awarded as well, so be sure to shoot and share local photos with the Directory.
Peridot Publishing, distributor of The Splash, The Current and The Liberty Lake and One Valley Community Directories, is sponsoring this contest. 509-242-7752
ON S
Washington State University
What makes the Spokane Valley area a picturesque place to live? That’s the question we’re posing for the 2015 One Valley Business & Community Directory photography contest. Whether it’s a breathtaking outdoor scene or a beautiful shot of residents gathering at a local event, photographers are asked to submit images capturing the essence of the community.
EC TI
The following Valley area residents were recently recognized by colleges for their recent academic performance or meeting graduation requirements. Information was provided via press releases submitted from schools.
• Visit www.libertylakesplash.com for a complete set of rules.
CO NN
Shane M. Widman of Valleyford was one of 39 Washington State Patrol troopers sworn in during a ceremony held Sept. 17 in Olympia. Troopers were sworn in by Chief Justice Barbara Madsen of the Washington State Supreme Court and were presented their official commission cards, a press release said. The WSP Academy produces approximately two cadet classes each biennium, which accounts for about 60 to 120 new troopers. According to the release, only four to six percent of the total number of applicants makes the grade to become WSP troopers.
Colleges honor local students
• Prizes will be awarded to the top three winners.
NE SS
Education Briefs Widman finishes WSP Academy
• Photographers (amateur or professional) age 16 years and older are eligible to enter.
BU SI
What makes the Valley area a picturunday chool esque place to live? Peridot Publishing requests local residents to share photos 9:30 a.m. answering that question for the One ValorShip ervice ley Business & Community Directory annual photo contest. The deadline for this 10:45 a.m. contest has been extended until Oct 31. Whether it's a breathtaking outdoor scene or a beautiful shot of residents gathered at a local event, shutterbugs are asked to submit images capturing the essence of the community. The winner's photo will be highlighted on the cover, and other selected images will be featured on the inside pages of the 2015 One 23304 E. Wellesley, Otis Orchards, WA Valley Directory. 509-926-9552 Amateur or professional photographers age 16 or older are eligible to enThe cards can be purchased via phone ter. Prizes will be awarded to the top or in person at Martin Woldson Theater three winners. For rules and details, go to at The Fox box office, 1101 W. Sprague in www.libertylakesplash.com and click on Spokane. A Spokane Symphony College the camera graphic at the top of the page. Card Facebook group has also been set up to make ride-sharing easier for ColCV craft show slated lege Card holders. for November For more information, visit www.spoA fall craft show benefiting the Central Valley High School marching band and kanesymphony.org. color guard is scheduled for Nov. 8 and 9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the high school, Exchange program seeks reps ASSE International Student Exchange 821 S. Sullivan Road in Spokane Valley. Programs is looking for volunteers to Admission is $2 at the door. For more serve as area representatives in the cominformation, email cvmbpublicity.hotmunity. ASSE provides academic year mail.com. and semester exchange programs in the United States for high school students Discounted symphony tickets from around the world. available to college students Duties include recruiting and screening The Spokane Symphony recently anprospective host families, interviewing nounced the renewal of its College Card, students to study abroad and supervising a discounted ticket program for college exchange students in their community, a students. According to a press release, college students can pay a one-time fee press release said. Area representatives of $25 to purchase a card good for tick- are compensated based on the number of ets to all 10 classics, five SuperPops and students they supervise. three Splash concerts for the 2014-2015 For more information, call 800-733season. 2773 or email asseusawest@asse.com.
Deadline: Oct. 31
Published through a partnership between The Current and the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, One Valley features: • Magazine-style content about the Spokane Valley region that is as much about pride and connection points with our community as it is about reference • Dozens of local photos and hundreds of local touching points make it a true keepsake publication • Coil-bound, full-color glossy presentation that is both userfriendly and durable
• Easy-to-access information that actually connects you to hundreds of businesses owned and operated by your neighbors — not to some out-of-area poser who paid for search engine priority • Distribution both online and via 6,000 hard copies through Current and Chamber channels. • Affordable and accessible marketing options for all area businesses and organizations
Look for the new One Valley Directory, distributing February 2015
Businesses, act now to be a part of the Valley’s premier annual publication! After Oct. 24, it will be too late. For more, call 509-242-7752 or email josh@valleycurrent.com
Brought to you by
Out and about in October
pumpkin lattes and apple cider, but there are many great activities for children and adults to do together to celebrate Halloween and fall.
Catch a Hayride
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends, Oct. 4-26 Carver Farms 9105 N. Idaho Road, Newman Lake Kids and their families are invited for free hayrides in the large, 9-acre pumpkin field at “Family Fun on the Farm.” With popcorn, caramel corn and caramel apples, pumpkingatherers can enjoy tasty treats in the outside autumn air. For more: www.carverfarms.com
From hayrides and harvest to candy and corn mazes, kids have much to Get lost in a maze Weekends in October, various times explore in the Valley Incredible Corn Maze 3405 N. Beck Road, Hauser
By Sarah Robertson
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Fall is a great time of year in the Northwest! Not only is it a time to indulge in
This maze and pumpkin patch at Stateline is a mecca of all things fun and fall! The 1.5 acre pumpkin patch gives every-
SUBMITTED PHOTO
While the Haunted Pool at night might be fun for older youth, little kids can take advantage of the Spook-tacular event during the afternoon on Oct. 31 at Valley Mission Pool. one a chance to pick the perfect squash. The corn cannon shoots cobs of corn farther than the length of a football field, and of course, there is the classic corn maze along with the “Field of Screams Haunted Maze.” For little ones, there is a
tractor tire playground to visit. For hours, prices and more: www.incrediblecornmaze.com
See OCTOBER, page 19
Check out these freaky facts and figures about the popular October holiday. Halloween is also known as… All Hallows’ Eve, Witches Night, Lamswool, Snap-Apple Night, Samhaim and Summer’s End
Ireland: Believed to be the birthplace of Halloween
Who said who? Owls, a popular Halloween image, were thought to be witches in Medieval Europe. To hear an owl’s call meant that someone was about to die.
Don’t squash it! If you see a spider on Halloween night, legend says it may be the spirit of a loved one watching over you.
Samhainophobia: The fear of Halloween
252:
25:
Different colors of M&Ms, the most popular candy sold in the U.S.
Sources: www.history.com/interactives/halloween-by-the-numbers, www.parenting.com/gallery/halloween-trivia, www.facts.randomhistory.com/halloween-facts.html
Licks it takes to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop
The average amount of seeds a pumpkin contains
Percent of parents who admit sneaking candy from their kids’ Halloween stash
The most popular candy for trick-or-treaters, with 50 percent of kids preferring to receive it over non-chocolate candy (which 24 percent prefer) or gum (which 10 percent chose).
CURRENT STAFF WRITER
500:
90:
Chocolate candy bars:
Compiled by Sarah Burk
24:
Seconds for the world’s fastest pumpkin carving time, held by Stephen Clarke
1,810:
Pounds that a pumpkin grown in 2010 weighed (roughly the weight of a cow)
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 19
COMMUNITY
OCTOBER Continued from page 18
Take a trip to the Palouse 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Oct. 4 Latah Community Park, Latah
Head south on Highway 27 for the Latah Harvest Festival and enjoy some small-town fun. Festivities include hayrides, punkin’ chunkin’ and much more. Starting at 9 a.m., there will be a Poker Bike Ride (bicycles) benefitting the North Palouse Community Food Bank with 10- and 32-mile options. For more: www.everydayrural.com
“The game is afoot!”
Oct. 18-26, various times Theatre Arts for Children 2114 N. Pines, #3S, Spokane Valley A little mystery is a great way to get ready for Halloween, and a theater presentation of “Sherlock Holmes” is sure to set the stage. The show is $10 for adults and $8 for students. Who knows? Maybe the costumes will give you some inspiration for picking out your own costumes. For more: www.theatreartsforchildren.org
Halloween flicks for the family Compiled by Tammy Kimberley CURRENT STAFF WRITER
If you want to snuggle up on the couch with the family and view a creepy film, these not-too-scary movies will set the mood for Halloween (without you waking up with nightmares). “Beetlejuice” (PG) A newly-dead couple discover that a family of the living has moved into their house, so they try to scare them off. Best for ages 9 and up “Casper” (PG) A dad and his daughter bunk in an abandoned house that contains three mischievous ghosts and one friendly one. Recommended for ages 6 and up
Spook-tacular event for little ones
2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Oct. 31 Valley Mission Haunted Pool 11123 E. Mission Ave., Spokane Valley So many activities this time of year involve scaring yourself silly—not a great idea for younger children. Little gals and ghouls ages 3 to 6 years are invited to the “haunted pool” for a not-so-scary hour of games, face-painting and candy hunting. The event is $1 per child or a can of food. For more: www.spokanevalley.org/hauntedpool
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Celebrate a small-town Halloween
KiDDS Dental in Liberty Lake will be swapping unwrapped candy for $1 per pound on Nov. 3. In the last six years Dr. Evans’ office has shipped over 5,000 pounds of candy to troops overseas.
6 p.m., Oct. 31 McIntosh Grange 319 S. 1st Street, Rockford
Why not take a trip to Rockford on Halloween? The small town on the northern edge of the Palouse will have a bonfire, cider and hot dogs in the park sponsored by the Rockford Lions Club. There will also be a party for kids (up to age 12) at the Grange. For more: 291-3190 “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (PG)
Give treats to troops
4 to 8 p.m., Nov. 3 KiDDS Dental 1327 N. Stanford Lane, Liberty Lake The aftermath of Halloween often means tons of candy as well as sugar-highs and tummy aches from all those sweet treats. Here’s a chance to give back by sending
some of your Halloween candy to our military men and women. KiDDS Dental is partnering with Banner Bank to pay $1 for each pound of candy donated. Candy must be unopened and children must be accompanied by an adult. Kids will also have a chance to decorate cards to go with the care packages. For more: www.growupsmiling.com
As Harry boards the Hogwarts Express for school, it evokes a fall feeling with some magic and witches thrown in. Best for ages 7 and up “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” The Peanuts gang celebrates Halloween while Linus waits for the Great Pumpkin. Recommended for ages 4 and up “Labyrinth” (PG) When Sarah wishes that goblins would take away her younger brother, he is whisked away to a Labyrinth that she must venture in and solve within 13 hours to get back her younger sibling. Recommended for ages 8 and up “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” An oldie but a goodie, this classic cartoon tells the story of a schoolteacher who tries to win the love of the prettiest girl in town. Best for ages 6 and up Source: www.parenting.com/ article/halloween-moviesfor-kids
Find us on Facebook for more fun!
Event Underwritten by
1327 N. Stanford Lane, Suite B Liberty Lake, WA
509-891-7070 • www.GrowUpSmiling.com
The Current
20 • OCTOBER 2014 Brought to you by
About and for Valley seniors
Inaugural craft fair attracts 21 vendors Spokane Valley Senior Center playing host to Oct. 16 event
The over 600-member Senior Center has planned activities five days a week, Monday through Friday. New classes this fall include line dancing lessons Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m., Bridge with Brenda Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. and Spite and Malice Fridays from 1 to 3:30 p.m.
By Valerie Putnam
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Leona Kramer asked a simple question. "She asked if we would ever think about having a craft fair," said Spokane Valley Senior Center Specialist Karen Clark-Parson. Kramer's inquiry sparked others to ask the same question. "She started the whole ball rolling," Clark-Parson said. "It snowballed after that." The result is the upcoming Spokane Valley Senior Center Craft Fair on Oct. 16 at Centerplace, 2426 N. Discovery Place. The Fair takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the second level in the Fireside Lounge. "You will find some nice one-of-a-kind things," Clark-Parson said about the event that features only hand-made items. "Things you can't go to the store to purchase." The idea was very popular among crafters, and through mostly word of mouth, vendor spaces filled up quickly. "There really is an interest among crafters," said Kramer. "It is limited where we can sell our items." Kramer, a self-taught knitter who began 55 years ago, plans on selling hand-made decorative scarves, hats, afghans and dolls. "They're very popular," Kramer said of her decorative scarves. "I've sold many of them." Kramer started knitting the decorative scarves last year by taking her knitting needles and yarn to the Senior Center. Due to the unusual way the scarves are crafted, she sought help from a woman who showed her how to knit the scarves. "Bless her heart, she showed me how to do it," said Kramer, who casts on using five threads. "That is what's wonderful about the Senior Center, there are gifted people who are willing to help other people." Kramer is one of 21 crafters selling items, such as Christmas ornaments and centerpieces, baby gifts, paintings, ceramics, quilts, dolls, repurposed jewelry and pine needle baskets at the show. Participants include residents from Pine Ridge Alzheimer's Unit. Pine Ridge's table
ACTIVITIES AT THE SENIOR CENTER
Besides activities, the Senior Center offers information and resources to area seniors about topics including financial and medical help. “We have many resources for seniors,” said Dale Ferrell, who serves as president of the Senior Center board. “Come by and see what is available.” For more on the craft fair or Senior Center, call 926-1937 or visit the Center’s new website at SpokaneValleySeniorCenter.org.
Answer key Answers to Trivia Test
CURRENT PHOTO BY VALERIE PUTNAM
Leona Kramer, a self-taught knitter, suggested the Spokane Valley Senior Center put on a craft fair. The result is an inaugural event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 16. Kramer will be selling hand-made scarves, hats, afghans and dolls. will feature items such as beaded bracelets, oil candles and scented bath scrubs. "A core group of 15 ladies have been busy working on crafts," Pine Ridge Activity Director Carmen Renicker said. "We're making things that the ladies can help me with. They really like to be involved." Renicker said this is Pine Ridge's first craft fair. All proceeds from Pine Ridge's table go towards the 2015 Alzheimer's Association's annual Walk to End Alzheimer's event. "Not only do we raise money," Renicker said. "But (the residents) feel they are contributing." The event is free and open to the public, and Centerplace offers an elevator and
handicapped scooters for individuals who experience difficulty getting around. Vendors are charged a fee of $10, with all proceeds going toward advertising for the event. "It's not a money maker," Spokane Valley Senior Center President of the Board Dale Ferrell said. "All the proceeds go toward advertising. We want to make sure we get people in to support the craft fair." According to Ferrell, they hope to have more than 250 attendees. "I'm hoping it will be successful enough that it will become an annual thing," Kramer said. "It would be wonderful if every crafter there would sell everything on their table. Everyone would go home happy."
1. E 2. Aegean Sea 3. Computer-aided design 4. A cudgel that can be used as walking stick or a weapon 5. Bull Moose 6. The skin between the eyebrows and above the nose 7. Flags 8. “Love Story” (1970) 9. Fernwood, Ohio 10. Twelve
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 21
COMMUNITY
Old movie posters could fetch handsome returns ‘Collecting’ by Larry Cox KING FEATURES SYNDICATE
Q: My dad managed a movie theater in a small Indiana town throughout the 1950s. Occasionally, he would bring home movie posters, and I have inherited his collection of about 50, many of them classics. They include “Imitation of Life,” “Picnic,” “Rebel Without a Cause,” “Summer Place” and “Marty.” I would like to sell them. Any suggestions? — Carol, Davenport, Iowa A: Movie memorabilia has skyrocketed in value during the past few decades. Conway’s Vintage Treasures is an auction house that specializes in movie-related materials and might be a good source for you. The address is P.O. Box 40962, Providence, RI 02940. Your collection sounds interesting and could be quite valuable. An original one-sheet of “Rebel Without a Cause” recently sold online for $2,600. Q: My mother has collected Fenton glass for at least 30 years. She has two china cabinets filled and even more in storage. Our problem is determining values.
Can you advise us? — Susie, Panama City, Fla. A: There are several excellent price guides that might be helpful. One of the better ones is “Warman’s Fenton Glass” by Mark Moran and published by Krause Books. It is easy to use and features more than 1,000 illustrations in full color, making identification easier. The prices in this guide also seem to accurately reflect the marketplace. Keep in mind, however, that values change, and you should consider that in assessing your mom’s collection. There are regional differences, too. For example, a piece of Fenton ruby glass might sell in a Phoenix shop for $35 but in the Dallas market for much more. Write to Larry Cox in care of KFWS, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 328536475, or send e-mail to questionsforcox@ aol.com. Due to the large volume of mail he receives, Mr. Cox cannot personally answer all reader questions, nor do appraisals. Do not send any materials requiring return mail.
Trivia Test 1. LANGUAGE: What is the most commonly used letter in the alphabet? 2. GEOGRAPHY: In what body of water can the island of Santorini be found? 3. ACRONYMS: To an engineer, what does the acronym CAD stand for? 4. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What is a shillelagh? 5. POLITICS: What was the emblem of the Progressive Party of 1912? 6. ANATOMY: What is the glabella?
7. ACADEMIA: What does a vexillologist study? 8. MOVIES: What was the title of the movie that featured the line, “Love means never having to say you’re sorry?” 9. TELEVISION: What was the name of the town that was the setting for “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman”? 10. GAMES: How many playing pieces do you have to remove from a body in the game “Operation”? © 2014 King Features Syndicate
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
22 • OCTOBER 2014
COMMUNITY
Highlights from your Chamber New President & CEO takes the helm at the Valley Chamber After an extensive national search and selection process, members of the executive board of the Valley Chamber of Commerce named Katherine Morgan as the new President & CEO. “She brings a new energy level, passion and a vision to make the Greater Spokane Valley one of the best places to live and work in America,” said Barry Baker, Chairman of the Board.
MORGAN Ms. Morgan recently served as Director of Marketing & Development at All Saints Catholic School in Spokane and has a background marketing the building industry. A Gonzaga graduate raised in the Northwest, she relocated to Kansas City to act as Marketing Director at Kansas City Home Builders Association, having previously worked with the Spokane Home Builders Association. She returned to the Northwest in 2012. Ms. Morgan is passionate about the importance of a Chamber of Commerce in a
community and the work it does. “I am honored to join the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce and look forward to working with a passionate staff, a board of visionaries, and a strong membership to manifest the vibrancy of our community to the region and beyond,” says Katherine. “Together, we plan to promote the Greater Spokane Valley as a prime community to live, work, and play.” A welcome reception will be held for her on Thursday, October 23 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Fireside Lounge at CenterPlace. This event will include a press conference and social gathering that the general public is invited to attend. The Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce has been an active advocate for business in Spokane Valley since 1921 remaining relevant and innovative in an everevolving market.
October Business Connections Breakfast
Sheriff’s Debate Ozzie Knezovich & Douglas Orr Friday, October 17 | 7 to 9 a.m., program begins at 7:30 Mirabeau Park Hotel | 1100 N Sullivan Rd | Spokane Valley, WA 99037
Open to the general public, seating is limited. For more: spokanevalleychamber.org MAJOR SPONSOR:
Chamber events in October Oct. 3 Oct. 7 Oct. 9 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 23 Oct. 23 Oct. 28
Ambassadors Committee Breakfast Government Action Committee Meeting Business Education Committee Meeting Colonial Court Assisted Living — 20th Anniversary/Ribbon Cutting Business Connections Breakfast Transportation Committee Meeting Katherine Morgan Welcome Reception Membership Committee Meeting
New members Please join us in welcoming the following members who have recently joined the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce: LaPlaza De Mexico My Place Hotels Peaks & Plains Medical, Inc
Visit our website at spokanevalleychamber.org for full details on these upcoming events
1421 N. Meadowwood Lane • Liberty Lake, WA 99019 • Phone: 509 924-4994 www.spokanevalleychamber.org
The Current
SUBMITTED PHOTO
About 200 local students attend a Saturday night dance organized by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Various Spokane Valley LDS wards take turns hosting the semimonthly events.
LDS dances highlighted by safety — and numbers Church looks to create alternative Saturday night atmosphere for teens By Shaun Brown
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Loud music (but not too loud), low lights (well, not that low), late nights (if you call 10:30 p.m. late) and lots of teenagers — could add up to trouble, but it doesn’t at the semi-monthly Saturday night dance hosted at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Spokane Valley. What it does add up to, say some of the estimated 200 attendees at a recent event, is fun, friends and freedom to have a good time in a safe environment. “It’s a good time to socialize and meet new friends,” said Mac Romney, an East Valley High School student. Morgan Clark of Central Valley High School added that she likes to be at the dance because of the atmosphere. “It’s a clean, safe place,” she said. “You have a good social environment that you know is not going to go south on you.” Some reasons for attending were more specific. East Valley student Josh Fraser said he just comes to check out his friend’s latest hair style. The adults who help coordinate the semimonthly dances work tirelessly to keep that social environment safe. “We welcome everyone no matter where they come from,” explained Whitney Gummersall, who currently volunteers as the
president of the LDS teenage girl’s organization for Spokane Valley. “We just have some guidelines that we do enforce so that everyone has a good, safe experience.” Teens are asked to adhere to a dress code. Young men are asked to wear collared shirts and be sure their jeans don’t have holes. Young women are asked to make sure they have sleeves and avoid short skirts, leggings and tight or low-cut tops. At any given dance, you’ll see a wide range of attire. Boys in suits, in jeans, in cowboy boots, and girls in dresses, skirts or pants. All the kids are encouraged to invite other friends to come. If a young person arrives at the dance for their first time without having been made aware of the dress code, they are welcomed. “We just give them a card with the standards listed and encourage them to come better prepared next time,” Gummersall explained. CV student Derek Crapo likes meeting new people at the dances and said he tries to come to the dances as often as he can. “If I come and there’s nobody that I know, I can still have a good time because the people that come are similar to me and share the same standards,” he said. In an effort to keep the environment safe, all teenagers sign in when they arrive. At every dance, about 20 adult volunteers mingle with the kids, keeping an eye on entrances, exits and empty classrooms. Male chaperones are asked to walk through the parking lot regularly during the dance as well.
See DANCES, page 23
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 23
COMMUNITY
Arc opens Valley center
Organization serving adults with disabilities remodeling space at Spokane Valley Partners By Lauren Campbell
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
For people with developmental disabilities, the end of high school can be a scary time, as they move from the relative safety of a school system with special ed programs, individualized education plans and other support services, into the real world. This is where programs like the Arc of Spokane step in. The Arc offers services to help adults with developmental disabilities overcome many challenges, such as financial management, finding employment and simply making friends. “After a child (with developmental disabilities) is no longer in school, they don't have anything to do during the day,” said Brian Holloway, director of advocacy and family support, development and communication for the Arc. The Arc of Spokane is part of a national federation, including about 730 chapters in the United States and about 12 in Washington. Each chapter is run by local leadership. In Spokane, the Arc has been providing these services since the 1950s alongside another organization, Center Pointe, which has focused primarily on social and recreational opportunities, such as pottery. This summer, Center Pointe sold its building and transferred some of its programs to the Arc. This August, the Arc signed a
DANCES Continued from page 22
Gummersall recalled an incident several months ago where a group left the dance and an adult chaperone went to the parking lot to discover they were smoking marijuana. “These kids had never been to a dance before,” Gummersall recalled. “We let them know they couldn’t do that here, and that they probably weren’t old
lease with Spokane Valley Partners to open a new center, its first in the Valley. Spokane Valley Partners is a nonprofit offering a food bank, clothing bank and other services to people in need. Additionally, the organization houses a number of nonprofits on its campus at 10814 E. Broadway Ave., including Daybreak, SNAP and ValleyFest. The rent the tenants pay supports Spokane Valley Partners variety of social service projects, turning the building into a bustling one-stop shop for those utilizing the nonprofits. SVP Development Director Jennifer Schlenske said it can be difficult to find tenants that are the right fit. When the organization learned Arc was looking to expand into the Valley, the staff knew their recently vacated basement space would be a great fit. “There will be no judging here, no bias,” Schlenske said. Currently, the food bank is open twice a week, and one of those days is specifically for those who may need more time or assistance to get through the line, including those with developmental disabilities. “We have a lot of the same outlook as the Arc,” Schlenske said. “We are about serving and helping those in need, and Arc is about that, too. We felt it was a wonderful fit.” The site is currently undergoing renovations, including an approxenough to legally do that anywhere.” Once a guest leaves the dance, they’re not free to return. “We don’t want to have people come back after drinking or smoking,” Gummersall said. Keeping it safe is a top priority, but so is keeping it fun. Kids from different youth groups take turns choosing a theme for the dance, along with decorations and refreshments. Volunteer deejay Larry Van-
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Participants in the Arc of Spokane program participate in a class studying French culture recently. Arc opened a Spokane Valley service center inside the Spokane Valley Partners building in August. The Arc of Spokane is remodeling a large portion of the basement of the Spokane Valley Partners headquarters at 10814 E. Broadway Ave. The Arc, which has already moved into temporary space in the building, is now operating its first Valley center for adults with developmental disabilities. imately $100,000 wheelchair ramp that will provide the Arc with its own entrance and make it more accessible for clients. That renovation is being paid for by Spokane Valley Partners, while Arc plans to invest another estimated $100,000 on interior renovations. Services are ongoing during this time, and the construction is expected to be finished by the beginning of December. This location is in addition to the downtown community center the Arc will continue to run. Arc programs include classes such as painting, cultural experiences, crafts and reading. In the state of Washington, approximately 70 percent of adults with developmental disabilities Matre works hard to play music the kids recognize and enjoy, but all music is previewed for appropriate lyrics and message. “Every dance the kids write down their song requests,” VanMatre explained. “And then my own teenagers help me review the lyrics before the next dance.” VanMatre also plays Just Dance videos, line dances, swing music and, of course, a healthy mix of slow songs. “There is always a request for
live at home, and these programs are often a valuable respite for their caretakers in addition to providing an opportunity to learn something new. Using the average incidence rate of 1.5 percent, Holloway estimates that there are approximately 7,000 people in Spokane with a developmental disability. Currently, the Arc serves about 3,500 people annually through one of its many programs. In addition to social opportunities, the Arc offers community living, family support, home ownership support for those who are capable and a unique individual advocacy program. Through this program, clients can call for help handling official forms they don't understand, navigating tricky social situations
or anything else they may be having a difficult time with.
more slow dances.” Gummersall said, adding the adults occasionally share the dance floor and keep an eye out for any dancing that may be unsafe or overly intimate for the setting.
The dances’ “only church thing” is an opening and closing prayer, Gummersall said. The events, which are open to 14- to 18-year-old students (and parents who want to drop in), alternate between the church’s 13608 E. 40th Ave. location in Spokane Valley and the ward at 21022 E. Wellesley in Otis Orchards. “It’s a positive and safe environment that you can enjoy being with your friends and not feel pressured to do things you shouldn’t,” Crapo said.
The students know the adults will be there. “It’s a comfortable thing,” Clark said. “We know they’re just here to keep us safe.” Added Crapo: “We know most of them personally and can say hello and catch up.”
For more about Arc, visit www. arc-spokane.org. The Arc also runs a thrift store at 808 N Ruby in Spokane, where proceeds go to support the Arc's programs. Holloway stressed the easiest way to get involved is by engaging with those who have developmental disabilities in daily life. “The biggest challenge for them is not being included and not being considered a person like everybody else,” Holloway said. “People can be reluctant to engage with them, they may not know what to say.” His recommendation? Start with, “Hi, how are you?”
24 • OCTOBER 2014
Furry family fun day
Ahoy, matey!
LOCAL LENS
The Current
Shutterbug snapshots
SUBMITTED PHOTO
The first Canines for K9s was held Sept. 14 at Plantes Ferry Park. Funds raised from the games and raffles are being used for training and equipment for the dogs and their handlers.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Greenacres Elementary was full of swashbucklers on Sept. 19. Kids were invited to dress up as pirates in honor of International Talk Like a Pirate Day on that Friday.
A ‘fair’-ly incredible weekend SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Michael Hassett shared these photos of some fawns, a red-tailed hawk, bald eagle and hooded mergansers he took near Newman Lake at the end of August.
Local Lens
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Those attending the Southeast Spokane County Fair Sept. 19-21 in and around Rockford City Park enjoyed entertainment, food, a car show and a variety of displays during the weekend.
Share your snapshots for The Current’s photo page. Email photos@ valleycurrent.com with scenes from around town, community events and group photos.
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 25
LOCAL LENS
Cyclists give back to community
People Magazine features Blessings Under the Bridge
The newly-formed Spokane Valley Cycling Club recently presented a $5,000 check to Spokane Valley Partners. CEO Ken Briggs and board president Nancy Nelson (pictured in center) accepted the gift. The cycling club welcomes new members; for more information, email steve@drwoodard. com. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Day of Action benefits Spokane Valley Partners Employees from local businesses including Acme Concrete and Paving, Ecova, Inland Northwest Blood Center, Numerica Credit Union, Rosauers, Maxey Law firm and others volunteered at Spokane Valley Partners on Sept. 11 as part of Day of Action. Jordan Beauchamp, the AmeriCorps Vista Community Garden Coordinator, said, “We had successful Day Of Action as we harvested around 500 pounds of produce for the Valley Food Bank as well as accomplished a ton of garden clean-up and maintenance.” Over 400 volunteers from local businesses worked at 15 different community agencies as part of the Spokane County United Way’s annual Day of Action.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Mike and Jessica Kovac stand with the Sept. 14 issue of People Magazine that included a story about how they started Blessings Under the Bridge. Jessica said someone suggested them to the magazine, which led to a May interview and an all-day photo shoot in June for their “Heroes among us” series.
2nd Stop Violence Against Women Day FREE RESOURCE FAIR
STOP! SUNDAY OCTOBER 19th from 11 am – 5 pm The Lincoln Center: 1316 N. Lincoln Street Were you or are you a victim of domestic violence? Do you feel lost after experiencing a traumatic illness or accident? Are you coping with a life-changing crisis, a divorce or the loss of a loved one? Then… PLEASE JOIN US!
¡Salud! Tapas Dessert Wine Tasting Gala SUNDAY OCTOBER 19th from 4 – 7 pm The Lincoln Center: 1316 N. Lincoln Street & The Coeur d’Alene’s Tribe’s STOP Program.
Ticketswest: $25 Early Bird or $30 at the the door. Must be 21+
charity@thefamilyguide.org l 509.928.9664 l www.thefamilyguide.org SUBMITTED PHOTOS
26 • OCTOBER 2014
BUSINESS MATTERS Your business thrives because of stellar products and services. We’d like to support you with free resources to help you do what you do even better.
Set your creative spirit free SCLD fall programming provides artistic outlets for adults By Sarah Robertson
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Get help with your business plan Take online business classes Read business magazines and journals Get detailed company information Create market research reports Read product reviews Find demographics data Research market and site locations Create marketing mailing lists and sales leads
This fall, the folks at the Spokane County Library want you to “tap your creativity.” The library decided to go big this fall and package together all sorts of creative classes and experiences for three months in a row under the name “Create!” The series is open to all adults looking for inspiration or the ability to be creative. The fall programming is all about finding, exploring and enjoying an artistic expression. According to Gwendolyn Haley, Library Services Manager, adults need creative outlets just as much as kids do. “We’ve done one or two classes here and there, but never three months in a row,” she said. “People would say, ‘Gosh, I wish I could come to that.’” The fall series will feature creative experiences like drawing and writing as well as dancing, pottery, leatherworking, digital photography and filmmaking. Each class will be led by a library staff member or an expert from the community. 3-D printing will also be part of the cal-
endar of events. Participants will have a chance to design and create a cookie cutter using a 3-D printer. “I hope that people will take the opportunity to explore something new and find that the library is a place to learn and grow and work together,” Haley said. “We continue to change and evolve as our community changes and grows.” Create will also coincide with National Novel Writing Month in November. Local authors Kris Dinnison, Sharma Shields and Kelly Milner Halls will be on hand to provide aspiring or established novelists with advice on novel writing. Throughout the month, more local authors are on board to help with editing, epublishing, and even a little inspiration and brainstorming. “I am really excited about the writing programs. The Spokane area has a great community of writers willing to work with people,” Haley said. The library recently received a grant for video production equipment, which will come in handy for Adam Boyd’s three-part series on filmmaking. The series will cover pre-production, production and post-production. For those who prefer to be inspired but maybe not so hands-on, the Spokane Symphony Ensembles and Gonzaga University’s Big Bing Theory a cappella groups will be performing as part of the series as well. The performances are open to all ages. “I’m pretty proud of the programming we have put together,” Haley said. “We have some amazing people on board helping us present this to our community…the Library has not really connected with the art community yet, (and) we hope to continue the relationship.” For a complete list of events, dates, times and locations, visit www.scld.org/create.
‘‘CREATE’
FALL SERIES FOR ADULTS AT SPOKANE COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT Drawing Fundamentals 6:30 p.m. Oct. 7 to Nov. 18 | Argonne branch This six-week series explores the basics of drawing with a variety of materials. Taught by an artist from The Spokane Art Institute, an introduction to color with pastels will complete the course.
Leatherworking Basics
10 a.m. Oct. 11 | Argonne branch Stan McConnell gives aspiring leatherworkers an opportunity to make four coasters to take home. Participants will learn to fasten suede and leather, sand, saddle, soap, burnish, stamp, monogram and seal.
Digital Photography for Beginners 3 p.m. Oct. 11 | Otis Orchards branch Bring your own camera and learn about white balance, framing a shot and using all those options beyond “automatic.”
Digital Photo Editing for Beginners 7 p.m. Oct. 14 | Otis Orchards branch This course will go over reducing red-eye, cropping, color correction and converting to black and white. Registration is required.
Big Bing Theory 2 p.m. Oct. 18 | Spokane Valley branch Big Bing Theory is Gonzaga University’s student run, co-ed a cappella group. Founded in 1998 by Erica Heinz, BBT performs around Spokane.
Book Review
Schedule a one-on-one meeting with a librarian to get started with these services, and more at spokanebusiness.org. By Gwendolyn Haley
SPOKANE COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT
www.scld.org
LIBRARY
The Current
I love the month of October. I look forward to the reappearance of pumpkinflavored everything, the slight crispness to the air, apple picking at local farms, the hint of wood smoke, planning Halloween costumes with my kids, just everything. Best of all, each October brings a new book to savor and enjoy with Spokane is Reading. Since 2002, Spokane is Reading has encouraged our community to read and engage in conversation about a single book
which culminates in an event with the author. The range of authors who have participated, and genres represented, is quite wide. Each year I find that I’m challenged to pick up and read something that I might not have chosen for myself. Without fail, I am so glad that I expanded my reading horizons and tried something new. That was the case with this year’s featured author, Karen Russell, and “Swamplandia!” “Swamplandia!” tells the story of a family on the verge of catastrophe. After their mother (and headliner) Hilola Bigtree dies, the children struggle beside their
father to keep the family’s Florida home and gator wrestling theme park afloat. Each of the three children finds a way of coping with imminent disaster. Kiwi, the oldest, leaves home and finds employment at a rival theme park called “The World of Darkness.” Osceola finds solace in spiritism and falls in love with a ghost. But it is Ava’s narrative that captivates the reader, as she observes her family’s struggles and sets out on her own mission to save them all. I found this to be a perfect read for the month of October—at times funny, often spooky and poignant. On Oct. 16 you can hear Karen Russell in person 1 p.m. at the Spokane Valley Event Center, 10514 E. Sprague, or 7 p.m. at The Bing Crosby Theater, 901 W. Sprague Ave. Gwendolyn Haley is a Library Services Manager at Spokane County Library District.
The Current
BUSINESS
OCTOBER 2014 • 27
Morgan takes helm of Valley Chamber Marketing maven emerged from 25 applicants to replace Eldonna Shaw
KATHERINE MORGAN Family The oldest of three children, Katherine has a brother, Don. Jr., and sister, Frances. Her parents, Don and Violet Morgan, own Independent Wealth Connections in Spokane Valley.
By Valerie Putnam
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Walking into the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce on her first day as President and CEO, Katherine Morgan received a very warm welcome. "You start any new position and wonder what the day is going to be like," said Morgan, whose first day was Sept. 14. "It was exciting to meet my staff, and board members were stopping by to show their support and encouragement." Morgan, 31, wasn't looking for a new job when a board member approached her this summer and encouraged her to apply for the position. "I was very happy where I was," said Morgan, who was working at All Saints Catholic School as the director of development and marketing. "They said they were going to post the position and asked me to consider applying." It didn't take long after the conversation for Morgan to make up her mind and apply for the position. "There are great opportunities all over the country, but opportunities like this in my backyard are very few," she said. "So I knew pretty quickly that I would have to take it." According to Board Chairman Barry Baker, who sat on the selection committee, the position became available in July after longtime Chamber President and CEO Eldonna Shaw left to pursue other ventures. Prior to leaving, Shaw held the position for more than 13 years. Morgan was one of 25 applicants. The selection committee, comprised of six of the chamber’s executive committee members and facilitated by Horizon Credit Union's vice president of human resources, Jodie Olson, narrowed the selection down to five applicants. Baker noted that Morgan's passion, energy and clear vision stood out among the rest of the applicants. "She said, '(Spokane Valley will be listed as) one of the 15 best places to live in America,'" Baker said. "That set her apart from the rest of the really good candidates we had." Upon taking the position, Morgan hit the ground running. She is introducing herself to the business community and elected officials and plans to meet with as many local businesses as possible. With the Chamber in the final year of its current strategic plan, she is gathering information for a November board retreat
Inspiration Her parents. “I appreciate the sacrifices they made for us as kids. That inspiration is something that will forever be my gold standard of what I aspire to be.”
What keeps her grounded Faith. “My faith drives and inspires me, always keeping focus on doing what is right.”
Free time pursuits Travel, outdoors, family and friends
Ideal recreation destination CURRENT PHOTO BY VALERIE PUTNAM
Katherine Morgan took over last month as the new president and CEO of the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce. that will identify an are moving forward overall vision for because it isn't just IF YOU GO ... about serving our the years to come. members, it's about A reception is planned from 5 to 7 "I want to underserving the commup.m. Oct. 23 to unveil the new Chamber stand where they nity at large." want Spokane Valimage campaign and welcome new Morgan discovley to be and find Chamber President and CEO Katherered a passion for out how we can ine Morgan. The event will be held in marketing at an communicate that the Fireside Lounge of CenterPlace, early age. story to the world," 2426 N. Discovery Place. The public is Morgan said. "My mother encouraged to attend. would say I was earOn Oct. 23, the marked since I was Chamber will hold five," Morgan said. a reception at the CenterPlace Fireside Lounge to not only "I'll never forget, we had the opportunity welcome Morgan, but unveil a new image to sell bracelets in kindergarten. I recampaign for the Chamber, which features member thinking everyone should want to buy these bracelets because they're so a new logo and website. pretty, and it'll make them happy. I think "I think this new image is going to demmy mother knew in that moment that I onstrate that we're innovative," Morgan would go into marketing." said. "That we want to connect individuals Morgan won an award for hitting a and businesses, and we want to empower goal selling those bracelets to her young our community." classmates. The new image campaign, which was in "I was hooked," Morgan said. "Through process long before Morgan arrived, was my academic years, I was always running developed and designed through a collaborative effort of the marketing staffs of the fundraisers and was the event planthree Chamber members: Horizon Credit ner trying to find ways to promote what Union, Spokane Teachers Credit Union we were doing." and Itron. Once the new image is unveiled, Through those experiences, Morgan Morgan will discuss her overall vision. learned the value of surrounding herself One thing Morgan believes is important with good people. for moving forward is keeping the relevan"I learned you can't do it alone," Morcy and value of the chamber. gan said. "You really have to find the great "I plan to identify measurable goals for talent and passion that is around you." our community; I don't want to just have Born in Los Angeles, Morgan's fampie-in-the-sky dreams," she said. "I want ily moved to Post Falls, Idaho, when she to truly find ways to demonstrate that we was 8. She attended St. Dominic Girls
A cabin at Priest Lake
Professional background Marketing assistant and events coordinator at Stewart Title (2006); marketing and events director for Spokane Home Builders Association (2007-2011); director of marketing and events, Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City (2011-2012); Kendall Yards project manager and director of marketing, Greenstone Homes and Neighborhoods (2012-2013); director of development and marketing, All Saints Catholic School (2013-2014)
Professional goals Leave a positive, lasting impression on the community and inspire young professionals. “I definitely want to encourage students that they can pursue any dream they have in life. They can have anything they want in life if they are out to do the right thing and do something for the common good. They can accomplish great things.”
School from fifth grade through high school. After graduating, Morgan attending St. Mary's University in Michigan on a scholarship. She decided to transfer to Gonzaga University for her senior year and graduated in 2006 with a degree in marketing. She earned her master's degree in business administration this spring and was honored with the Student of the Year award. "I was very humbled and honored by that," Morgan said of the award that is hanging on a wall in her office. "It was completely unexpected." Morgan hopes to remain and grow in her new position for a long time. "We're nearing our 100th year," Morgan said. "We're seven years away, and I look forward to taking us there."
28 • OCTOBER 2014
COVER STORY
AN ENCYCLOPEDIA OF
t s a f k a e r B From top-notch local establishments to fast food or chain options, one man’s guide to morning dining
The Current
By Craig Swanson
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
When I was asked to write a story on the state of breakfast affairs in the Spokane Valley, I knew I was the man for the job. It is a story I have been dining to write since I was about 4 years old, when I decided nothing was cooler than hotcakes. Considering I am very 50-something now, that was a long time ago. Back then, there were few franchises, fast or slow, serving breakfast or any other meal. I remember only one restaurant in the Valley from those earliestmemory days. There were others, but Smitty’s Pancake House was the only one I cared about. When I had the occasional good luck to be an eager participant in an afterchurch family meal there, it was the most sacred and blessed moment of that Sabbath day. Not old enough to understand what our pastor was selling in the Lord’s House, I certainly understood what Smitty was selling at his Pancake House. If it had been up to me, I would have put Smitty before the Lord and gone there prior to church for breakfast and then headed back for lunch. Maybe it was that deprivation of my early inner callings for more pancakes that has made me a lifelong breakfast believer — and today, after weeks of intense and rapturous research, perhaps something of an expert on the meal. Or at least how it is offered to us here in the Spokane Valley.
Breakfast served fast
CURRENT PHOTO BY CRAIG SWANSON
Among the many breakfasts contributor Craig Swanson has enjoyed at Donna’s Diner over the years, the daily breakfast special is tough to beat.
If you think about it, there are two ways to buy a hot, made-toorder breakfast. One way, it is wrapped in paper and handed over the counter at a fast food place, and the other it is delivered on a plate by a server in a restaurant. I have always preferred both. I was there eating breakfast at the University McDonald’s when your choice for a breakfast sandwich was an Egg McMuffin. In the early ’70s, it was your only fast food choice for breakfast. Talk about a revolutionary idea. The humble, eternally popular Egg McMuffin was the match that lit
America’s fast food breakfast explosion. According to a report on MarketWatch.com, breakfast is the only growing segment in both fast-food and casual dining, with a 5 percent increase last year. Leave it to the highly competitive players in the fast food industry to notice that. Subway is now open for breakfast. You can get a waffle taco at Taco Bell or a breakfast burrito at Taco Time. Schlotzsky’s is offering their breakfast sandwich, the Eggsky, on its patented bread. Carl’s Jr. has a massive new ad campaign attempting to put their new cinnamon pull-aparts into the minds and mouths of breakfast lovers across America. Amongst the national franchises, my loyalty remains with McDonald’s. I did, however, do a sandwich switch from the Egg McMuffin to their egg, bacon and cheese biscuit as soon as they invented it. For me, eating that blissfully stuffed biscuit dipped in syrup is like having a little bite of the Kingdom here on earth. No other new concoction has lured me away, try as I have most of them. I did come upon an undiscovered fast food gem here in the Valley. A while back I had noticed that Zip’s had entered the fast service breakfast fray, and so in doing my due diligence for this story, I stopped in twice. That is why I know it is undiscovered. Zip's is going for a hybrid between fast food and casual dining. At the counter, I ordered French toast. Not long after sitting down, they were delivered on a real ceramic plate that also carried a little pitcher of syrup. I appreciate that this local enterprise is boldly Zipping while everyone else is zagging.
National pancake powerhouses The second breakfast-in-thefield category, casual dining, is where I spent most of my mornings for this story. There are only three national breakfast restaurants doing business in the Valley: Denny’s, IHOP and Shari’s. I love them equally and have spent many glutinous mornings at them all. I still mourn the passing of Perkins and fondly remember Sambo’s, which became the second memorable restaurant of my youth when it opened in the Sixties selling breakfast 24 hours a
See BREAKFAST, page 29
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 29
COVER STORY
BREAKFAST Continued from page 28
day right there just east of Sprague and Bowdish in the heart of the Spokane Valley. The three active national players are a far cry from the Sambo's of my youth. Back then, it was straightforward All-American breakfast meals, but now days their menus are packed with gooey and rich concoctions described in mouth-watering euphemisms and pictured in too-good-to-betrue close-up photos. Shari’s has invented something they call Cinnama-sation French Toast that is half cinnamon roll and half French toast. Alert to the same cinna-trend, IHOP recently came out with what they call Cinnamon Swirl Brioche French Toast. Denny's came up with a new cinnamon pancake and then upped the sweet ante with a "Peanut Butter Cup Pancake," which is two pancakes filled with white chocolate chips, smothered in hot fudge and topped with peanut butter sauce. I think the nationals pursue these new breakfast inventions because it separates them from the local independents, who can't waste their time in the laboratory to keep coming up with this crazy stuff. In Spokane Valley, and I would guess everywhere, breakfast is where the locals battle the nationals the hardest. There are a lot of big, national players like Applebee's and Red Lobster serving lunch and dinner, but that is not the case for breakfast.
Local weekend wonders I would not take the time to mention establishments that only serve breakfast on Saturday and Sunday except that there are a lot of them and one of them, Charlie P's, is probably my favorite place to have breakfast in the entire Valley. I love seafood omelettes and have tried them whereever they are attempted locally, as well as when I travel. Charlie P's is the best local seafood omelette and as good as any I have eaten, even in coastal restaurants so close to the sea that the crab tasted like they had just pulled it out of the ocean. Elaine, my best buddy for 32 years, has never one time joined me for an early morning breakfast out because of a serious conflict in interest between getting up or sleeping in. But in a wonderful
twist of fate, she loves Charlie's eggs benedict, and they serve breakfast all day. So while she is having her benedict with a glass of milk and a happy hour beer for her breakfast, I am having a heavenly omelette for my late afternoon lunch. Three other family-friendly bars that have built up a weekend following are Iron Horse Bar and Grill, O'Doherty's Irish Pub and Bolo's Bar and Grill. They all do a good job but I think some of their appeal is they serve Bloody Mary's and other drinks that many of their customers sometimes begin drinking quite early on weekends. For the clean livers with big appetites, there is no place like the weekend breakfast buffet at Timber Creek. The crowd there is over the top and lined out the door.
10 can’t-miss local options But these weekenders are not the main contenders in the breakfast battle. There are actually 10 local Spokane Valley establishments that serve breakfast every day, more if you start counting the coffee shop types, in-store gathering places or hotel restaurants like the Max at Mirabeau. For the purposes of this story, I focused on the following list. Most just serve breakfast and lunch, but some serve dinner as well. I think that during the week, most of them do better at lunch or dinner, but on the weekends, they all do big breakfast biz. I was amazed how many people go out for breakfast on the weekends. Having been solidly converted to breakfastism by St. Smitty long before the age of accountability, I reverently observe the day's first supper at any place that will serve it to me, but I did come up with a Letterman's list. And so here are my top 10 reasons to go out for breakfast in the Spokane Valley.
Reason No. 10: Black Pearl Casino The reason the Pearl holds the 10 spot is because it is a casino first and restaurant second. They do have great decor and really good food. If you are dating and have found someone who is the opposite of Elaine and wants to go out for breakfast, this would be the Valley's best early date spot.
Reason No. 9: Skyway Café My only problem with Skyway Cafe is that I don't like crowded
See BREAKFAST, page 30
CURRENT PHOTOS BY CRAIG SWANSON
Michael Conway, a bartender at Charlie P’s, sits down with longtime customers Elaine and Craig Swanson. (Craig took the picture.) Both Swansons enjoyed their favorite Charlie P’s breakfast orders: the eggs benedict for Elaine and the seafood omelette (at right) for Craig. While he has enjoyed breakfasts at Valley establishments for more than 50 years, Craig Swanson stepped up his research for the writing of this story, including faster options such as French toast from Zip’s (below left), an Eggsky sandwich from Schlotzky’s (middle right) and a Taco Bell waffle (bottom right).
The Current
30 • OCTOBER 2014
COVER STORY
BREAKFAST Continued from page 29
places, and this place is crowded, especially for weekend breakfast. I love a comfortable, private and well-lit booth like at Shari's on Sullivan or the old ones at my beloved Perkins. The Skyway Cafe has no such getaways, but that does not hurt them one bit. I would tell visitors to the Valley that this is a local favorite for a reason. Located at Spokane's original international airport, this place has the best setting and unique feel on the list.
CURRENT PHOTOS BY CRAIG SWANSON AND JESSE SWANSON
Clockwise from top left, owner Jenny of Jenny’s Cafe worked at the location when it was a Waffles and More before purchasing it and making the restaurant her own; Jenny’s Elvis Pancake; staff members prepare the fare at Terry’s Breakfast and Lunch; owner Donna of Donna’s Diner is writer Craig Swanson’s Valley “monarch of the morning”; the Skyway Cafe located at Felts Field features an airport-inspired decor; Egg It On is the newest addition to the Valley’s breakfast scene; when the Little Euro opened in the Valley, the stuffed French toast many Valley residents enjoyed when Old European was open on Sprague returned with it.
Reason No. 8: Dave's Bar and Grill The reason Dave's is at 8 is because I think they only do breakfast because the Valley can't get enough of Dave's food. He does his famous specials at dinner, not breakfast. There are no great bargains for breakfast, but like the other two meals he serves, the breakfast there is all great food served in proportions built for two.
Reason No. 7: Conley's This is the last member of the Valley's trilogy of local breakfastserving icons. In an industry with a high mortality rate and short life expectancy, Conley's has been around longer than almost anyone. Conley's is a creative and tasty example of something that is nice to see: local independent operators that have built a hospitality treasure that has been Opportunity's opportunity to have been enjoying all these years.
Reason No. 6: Egg It On This is the Valley's newest restaurant located in the west half of the old Hooter's building. I think they got off to a rocky start, but I have been there five times since they opened and always go with a group, and I can tell you that they are worth a try. Their salmon benedict is, as Elaine says, fricking-fracking good, and if you like a bloody good Bloody Mary, they have her.
Reason No. 5: Little Euro Living these past 20 years near the corner of Bowdish and Alki, the kids and I were hit hard when the Old European closed many years ago just down Bowdish on Sprague in the house that Sambo's built. The kids had grown up on their crepes, and I had a love affair with their stuffed French toast. Imagine my delight when they
recently re-opened as the Little Euro just down Alki on Pines.
Reason No. 4: Cottage Café Though they have been around five years, I group the Cottage with Euro and the Egg in so far as
being the new places. The Cottage opened as successfully as any establishment I have ever seen. They pretty much did everything right. Elaine and I went in there at one o'clock on a Wednesday and sat at the bar to avoid waiting, which is
amazing considering they close at 2 o’clock.
Reason No. 3: Terry's Breakfast and Lunch Having owned and worked a place for four years with Elaine,
I most admire the owner that puts in shifts on the front lines of their place. If you want a lot of good grub and want to watch the owner cook it for you, go to Terry's. The only reason Terry is not
See BREAKFAST, page 31
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 31
BUSINESS BREAKFAST NEARBY … While Craig Swanson’s exercise in early morning gluttony focused on city of Spokane Valley establishments, there are other eateries in the greater Spokane Valley area that regularly serve breakfast, including Barlows Family Restaurant and Twisp Café in Liberty Lake, Otis Grill in Otis Orchards and Harvest Moon Restaurant in Rockford.
BREAKFAST Continued from page 30
higher on the list is because he is not nearly as good looking as the top two.
Reason No. 2: Jenny's Café The first Saturday I went into Jenny's, she had her hair down and was waitressing as only a natural can, and then the next Saturday she had her hair tied back as she cooked in the kitchen just as naturally. Jenny started at the location at age 16 when it was Waffles and More and then bought it 14 years ago. The main reason Jenny is at No. 2 on the list is because at 24 years in the business, she does not yet have half the years in as my monarch of the morning.
Reason No. 1: Donna's Diner Donna starting waiting tables 50 years ago in Troy, Mont., after school when she was 12. If you want to see Donna, don't go on the weekends, because she takes off Friday through Sunday. Donna's is the only breakfast and lunch place open from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. (All the rest are 6 to 2.) Donna is there for all 10 hours Monday through Thursday, waiting on her customers. Donna does a great job serving a great breakfast, as do the Valley's other nine great reasons to dine out in the morning. I didn't bring up price, because they are all within a buck on any given meal, and I didn't bring up quality, because breakfast is a pretty easy meal to get right as they all have accomplished. Judging by the numbers I saw crowding into all of these places on the weekends, I would say that I am not the only one who did not get enough pancakes when I was a kid. And while I love them all from Ronald to Donna, I will always remain most smitten by Smitty. Craig Swanson is a lifelong Spokane Valley resident. He has written many reviews of the Valley’s food scene on his blog, spokanevalleyscoop.wordpress.com.
Biz Notes Peaks and Plains expands in Valley Peaks and Plains Medical Supplies recently announced the opening of their newly-remodeled Spokane Valley Store at 13524 E Sprague Ave. The remodel allows Peaks and Plains Valley outlet to double its inventory. Originally founded by Bob McNellis, Peaks and Plains started off as a one-person operation in Montana under the name of Bob McNellis, Inc. Mcnellis specialized in providing third party billing of splints and orthotics to long-term care patients in southwest Montana, eastern Idaho and northern Utah. The company moved to Spokane in April 2000. In addition to its Valley location, Peaks and Plains Spokane also has a North Spokane store at 9996 N. Newport Hwy.
Avista Stadium named Field of the Year Avista Stadium has been named the 2014 Northwest League Field of the Year. Avista has won the award for 10 consecutive years. "It's great for Avista Stadium's field to be honored with this award," Indians Head Groundkeeper David Yearout said. "Our grounds crew works hard to keep the field in pristine condition for our players, coaches and fans." The award is given to the team that has the best playing surface and maintains the highest quality field throughout the 76game season. Northwest League managers and coaches vote and select the winning field. Yearout is one of 16 candidates nominated for the Minor League Baseball's Sports Turf Manager of the Year. The winner will be announced at the 2014 winter meetings.
Fritz to retire from INHS After more than 16 years as CEO of Inland Northwest Health Services (INHS), Tom Fritz announced he will retire at the end of the year. According to a press release, Fritz’s leadership helped position the Spokane community as a national role model in health information technology, receiving national recognition and successfully vying for federal grants and contracts over the past decade. He has served on many boards including chairing Greater Spokane Incorporated, Spokane Area Economic Development Council and Spokane Workforce Development Council. Under Fritz's leadership, the non-profit organization extended its reach and customer base and has become one of the largest employers in Spokane County with more than 1000 employees. At one time operating in the red, INHS achieved 2013
SERVICE DIRECTORY BEAUTY PRODUCTS
HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES
3D Fiber Mascara takes your lashes from OK ...
You’ve got it “Maid”
to Oh, Wow!
• Organic & all natural • Not tested on animals • Hypo allergenic • Gluten free
www.LashFun.com Presenter: Mavis Hogan
mavishogan@comcast.net Ask me how to have your own online Lash Bash ... or to become a presenter!
HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES
SPARKLING CLEAN
Housecleaning & Windows Call Debbie
509.926.7726 or 509.217.8324 The Cleanup Specialists LICENSED & EXPERIENCED
MONTHLY • WEEKLY • BIWEEKLY
gross revenues of more than $200 million, the release said.
STCU issues chip-equipped 'smart' cards The Inland Northwest's largest credit union has begun to issue highly secure 'smart' credit cards to members who frequently travel internationally. Many international merchants are already set up to accept chip-equipped cards. The move marks the first step in STCU's year-long plan to replace more than 62,000 Visa Platinum and Visa Business credit cards with new, microchip-equipped credit cards, Russell Palmer, manager of the card services department, said. Initially, STCU will issue chip-equipped credit cards only. The not-for-profit financial institution expects to begin issuing chip-equipped debit cards in late 2015 or 2016. STCU is among the first Spokanebased financial institutions to begin issuing chip-equipped credit cards.
Spokane Business & Industrial Park announces new tenants Tortilla and Chip food distributor, Mission Foods, has leased approximately 12,600 square feet of space in Building 33 in the Spokane Business & Industrial Park, 3808 N. Sullivan Road in Spokane Valley. Appliance Recycling Outlets, LLC has leased approximately 4,800 square feet of space in Building 2 in the Spokane Business & Industrial Park. Their primary business is warehousing of appliances. Biz Notes features greater Spokane Valley-connected business items. Contact The Current with business news at editor@valleycurrent.com.
Gail King, OWNER Licensed, Bonded & Insured
• Honest & reliable • Great references • Competitive rates • Move ins & move outs • Free estimates
Please call and ask for Gail
509-385-1008 LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE • Weekly/Bi-weekly Lawn Care • Fall/Winter Fertilization & Weed Control • Sprinkler Blowouts/Adjustments/Repairs • Fall Cleanup/Raking/Leaf Removal • Fall Pest Control/Spider Barriers • Fully Licensed/Insured — Satisfaction guaranteed!
FREE ESTIMATES As always, first mow FREE
509-218-1775 Pacific-Lawn.com
MEDICARE INSURANCE
GET THE MOST FROM YOUR MEDICARE. Mary Sloan Independent agent specializing in Medicare
• Supplements, Advantage Plans, Prescription Drug Plans • Worked with Medicare plans exclusively for 7 years
Contact me with any Medicare questions: 509-842-4116 Painting Heinz Painting & Handyman BBB accredited, hardworking, honest, and on time. Free estimates! Now is the time to get your house painted. Call today! Dave Heinz, 509-953-8093. Licensed, bonded & insured, HeiNzpH924Bw. Many satisfied Valley customers.
SPRINKLER BLOWOUT $39.95 PLUS TAX It’s that time of year again! Call GrassMasters Lawn & Sprinkler to schedule your sprinkler blowout. Licensed and bonded with more than 20 years experience. 509-924-LAWN
The Current
32 • OCTOBER 2014
BUSINESS
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Among the Valley-area homes featured in the 10th annual Fall Festival include, clockwise from above, a Greenstone home at 24929 S. Stonecrest Ave. in Liberty Lake, a Hayden home at 4706 S. Lapwai Lane in Spokane Valley, a Camden home at 17918 E. Apollo Road in Spokane Valley and a Paras Home at 11207 E. Sandstone Lane in Spokane Valley.
Homes (and chefs) on display at Festival 10th annual event adds food to the menu for 2014 By Lauren Campbell
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Beautiful homes, tasty food and a chance to explore new Spokane neighborhoods: the Spokane Festival of Homes, sponsored by the Spokane Home Builders Association, offers plenty to attract both potential homebuyers and those who are off the market. The festival, which finishes its two weekend run Oct. 3-5, features 36 houses by 17 builders in five neighborhoods. Homes on the north and south sides of Spokane are paired with several throughout the greater Valley, grouped by organizers into three general neighborhoods: North Valley, d an Gr ing n e Op
South Valley and Liberty Lake.
With a participating home likely within 15 minutes of anyone in the greater Spokane area, the event is a somewhat of an area-wide open house. In fact, since most of the houses are staged, a lot of people come by just to get ideas for decorating or renovating their current home, according to Nichole Kerns, marketing and communications director for the Spokane Home Builders Association. In its 10th year, the Spokane Festival of Homes expects to see about 5,000 people attend the free event at one of the locations. “It's a really nice opportunity to see the quality of construction going on in our area,” Kerns said. In fact, in the past, some people have
changed their mind about relocating after being impressed with the homes they saw at the Festival. Most of the houses are for sale, although some have been pre-sold and a couple are builder-occupied. There is a wide range of home prices, from the $100,000 range up to $1 million. The event benefits the builders, who get a wide audience for their homes, as well as the visitors. “It's great for us because we get to show off our homes and communities, and great for prospective home buyers and those just seeking inspiration because the homes they're looking at are move-in ready and staged, so they can really experience what it might be like to live in the home and neighborhood,” said Stephanie Link, director of marketing and sales at Greenstone Homes.
New this year is a Festival of Chefs, which runs from 4 to 8 p.m. Oct. 2. The idea has been tried in other markets, such as Yakima and the Tri Cities, and is being brought to Spokane for the first time this year. This festival partners local restaurants with builders to serve food and drink samplers in the homes, most of which will also have live entertainment. “Fall Festival of Chefs attendees will really get to see the home in action as a place to cook and entertain — and they'll be able to explore the home at their leisure,” Link said. The event is for those 21 and up only, as alcohol will be served at some of the homes, and proceeds are being donated to the Women and Children's Free Restaurant, which will also be serving food at
See FESTIVAL, page 33
Experience the Difference of
Pentecost Our service sets us apart
www.spokanecornerstonechurch.org Sunday at 11am and Wednesday at 7:30pm 21326 East Mission Avenue, Liberty Lake, Wa.
Since 1981, we have built long-term relationships with Washington, Idaho and Arizona families by focusing on satisfying needs, finding the best possible price and truly appreciating their business. Our clients save as much as 20% on auto rates when we also insure their home. Our products are placed with ethical, financially sound insurance providers to ensure not only great service when shopping for insurance, but also for those times when you need your insurance to be there for you.
HOME
•
AU TO
(509) 893-8782
•
BUSINESS
•
B O AT
www.nwinsurancebrokers.com
•
M OTO R C Y C L E
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 33
BUSINESS
FESTIVAL Continued from page 32
one of the homes. The $35 ticket price for Festival of Chefs includes admission to all nine of the homes participating during the window that evening, and the SHBA expects most participants will visit a few homes in the neighborhood to experience the different food and entertainment presented at each. Since each home features a different restaurant, the vibe of the home will be unique, allowing visitors to get a sense of what it might feel like to live there. “Our River District site will have a front yard neighborhood hang-out feel. At Eagle Ridge, the atmosphere will be more elegant and at Rocky Hill, you'll feel like you're having friends over for late-summer dinner on the patio,” Link said. “The varied themes reflect the variety in our floor plans and our unique approach to neighborhood-building that attracts residents in diverse stages of life to each of our communities.” A full list of homes — and restaurants — participating in the Festival of Homes and Festival of Chefs can be found at www. spokanefestivalofhomes.com. Kerns added that this year’s event has an especially celebratory feel as Spokane rebounds from the recession and new construction is up in the region. “It's a really fun event,” Kerns said. “And it's great to see our local craftsmen back at work.”
MAP COURTESY OF SPOKANE HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION
To see a complete map and list of participating homes and restaurants go to www.spokanefestivalofhomes.com
IF YOU GO ... SOUTH VALLEY 07 Dave Largent Homes 13223 Copper River Lane* 08 Camden Homes, Inc. 4303 Silver Creek Lane*
Oct. 3-5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Presented by the Spokane Home Builders Association, this 10th annual free event will showcase new construction homes in the Spokane and Valley areas. The list at right represents the show homes in the Valley. Not shown on this section of the map, homes 1 through 6 are located south of I-90 in the Spokane area and 25 through 36 are north of the freeway in Spokane.
Oct. 2, 4 to 8 p.m.
09 Hayden Homes, LLC 4706 South Lapwai Lane
19 Greenstone 1939 N. Holl Boulevard
LIBERTY LAKE
20 Markham Homes, Inc. 17021 E. Baldwin Avenue
14 Greenstone 24929 S. Stonecrest Ave.*
NORTH VALLEY
15 Greenstone 2149 N. Wilmington Street*
10 Paras Homes, LLC 11207 E. Sandstone Lane
16 Morse Western Homes 224 N. Chief Garry Drive
11 Lewis Construction & Development, Inc. 1322 N. Robie Lane
17 Copper Basin Construction 43 S. Parkview Court
12 Split Diamond Construction 2604 S. Man O'War Lane
Local chefs will serve sample-sized portions of some of their signature dishes in several locations. Tickets for this event (ages 21 and over) are $35. Valley area participants are shown on the map above and include:
13 Camden Homes, Inc. 17918 East Apollo Road
18 Greenstone 19840 E. Indiana Ave.
G Split Diamond Construction | Ambrosia Bistro & Wine Bar 2604 S. Man O’War Lane, Spokane Valley (Red Fox Ridge)
21 Paras Homes, LLC 5512 N. Radium Lane* 22 Paras Homes, LLC 5513 N. Radium Lane* 23 Viking Builders, LLC 4819 N. Emerald Lane 24 Monogram Homes 11806 E. Rivercrest Drive
H Greenstone | Ferrante’s Marketplace Cafe 19840 E. Indiana Ave., Liberty Lake (River District)
*Denotes host site I Greenstone | Hay J’s Bistro 24929 S. Stonecrest Ave., Liberty Lake (Rocky Hill)*
34 • OCTOBER 2014
Soss recalls impressive window of WV dominance
SPORTS
The Current
After quarterbacking the football state title in 1976, he played 2nd base for 1978 baseball winners By Mike Vlahovich
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Ron Soss still lives in the West Valley School District, where he and others had remarkable high school athletic careers. A junior in the fall of 1976, Soss quarterbacked the Eagles to a state football championship. His senior year, he was second baseman on their baseball state titlists. Those years were rekindled for Soss and ex-teammates while reminiscing following the Sept. 19 dedication of Jack Spring Field, on the very baseball field of their dreams. (Spring, 81, has Parkinson’s disease and was unable to speak, but still maintains his humor. He wrote a thank you speech that was read by his son, Chris, to an audience including other former players. It concluded, “Thank you all for sharing this wonderful honor with me. I must say, Jack Spring Field has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?”) Seven members of that 1978 team were there, including Soss, who spoke on their behalf during the ceremony. Putting his career into perspective — two state football title trips, three baseball state appearances and a sixth place in state basketball — you have to go back to the neighborhood where the little kid on the block was included by his elders for sandlot games that made him the athlete he became. “I think a lot of it had to do when I was growing up,” said Soss, now a vice president and
construction lender at the Banner Bank branch on Mullan Road in Spokane Valley. “We used to play neighborhood sports all the time. I was the little runt and had to pay my dues.” They played nearly every day the sport du jour until they got into junior high school, and the games became organized. He says he was in in the right place at the right time playing with standout athletes in classes that preceded and followed. The bulk of the football team, for instance, was back from the previous year’s second-place finish and vowed to go unbeaten, which they did. The 5-foot8 Soss says he was merely the caretaker at quarterback. “My junior year when we won state, we had a bunch of studs,” he said. “It was just destined to be. We knew we were going to win. The nucleus of the team was on a mission.” The next year, he said, the baseball team duplicated football’s feat. “That’s what makes the senior year baseball team so special,” he said. “We won state and wondered, ‘how did this happen?’” Looking back on the box scores, Soss said he remembered WV as being a good defensive team and discovered they’d make five or six errors a game. But they were opportunistic. Fifth entering the last weekend of league, the Eagles were down to their last out or the season was over. Soss stole home, and WV won the first of 11 straight games that culminated in Spokane’s only baseball state title.
CURRENT PHOTOS BY MIKE VLAHOVICH
Ron Soss, along with many former West Valley High School teammates, attended a dedication of Jack Spring Stadium in September. Spring, in wheelchair above and flanked by sons Chris, left, and Mike, right, coached West Valley to an unexpected 1978 state championship. Members of the team who attended the dedication posed in the photo below, including, from left, Scott Malone (catcher), Randy Braun (pitcher), Soss (second base), Mark Robinson (pitcher), Ray Moss (third base), Dennis Bowman (left field) and Mark McIntyre (shortstop).
“I don’t know if I whispered to you I was going to steal home or if you just knew what I was thinking,” Soss told Jack during the dedication. “But you gave me the nod, and I went for it. I hoped Dennis Bowman didn’t rip one down the third base line because I was coming.” Soss’ elders carried football. He was blessed by younger players on that baseball squad like third baseman Ray Moss, first base defensive vacuum, the late
Chuck Estey, and pitcher Mark Robinson that buoyed the seniors. Winning state in football and baseball was different in another way, Soss said. The former was met with fanfare. The latter came when school was nearly out and largely went unrecognized. Seven on that team, Moss, Soss, Bowman, Robinson, pitcher Randy Braun, shortstop Mark McIntyre and catcher Scott
Malone, were at Jack Spring Field for the dedication. Soss spoke for them when he said, “those three years I couldn’t have been more blessed. It wasn’t one guy doing something special; we just had a lot of fun being around each other.” The guy who the older kids allowed to play said he’d go back and do it again in a heartbeat. Only this time he’d be six inches taller.
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 35
SPORTS
He won’t claim it, but Schuh deserves credit for success
By Mike Vlahovich THE FINAL POINT
Jon Schuh is insistent that no coach, including himself, merely waves a magic wand and wins are guaranteed. But when it comes to softball, University’s coach has had the Midas touch. When he came to U-Hi at the turn of this century, Schuh inherited an established program under Ken Vansickle that had already qualified for four straight Class 4A state fastpitch tournaments. The program not only didn’t miss a beat, Schuh turned it into gold by running the string to 10 in succession and winning the Greater Spokane League’s first 4A state title, in 2003. The Titans since have advanced to state the last five years, running his personal total to 11, including a fourth-place 3A finish. Not only that, since the GSL added slowpitch softball in the fall of 2006 for gender equity, Schuh’s teams have played in all eight league tournament finals, winning seven. He doesn’t take credit other than insisting, “It isn’t rocket science. “I stole stuff from successful (college) coaches, people who are big time in athletics. I have great assistant coaches who are excited about going out there and teaching girls. We have a system in how we practice and break down skills. Maybe that system has worked for our girls.” I admit to being biased as I write. He mentored my daughter, Linse, who pitched in the last two state fastpitch tournaments of that initial 10-year string. I feel there’s more to it than just surrounding yourself with great assistant coaches and talented athletes. She didn’t have a lot of pitching experience when she got to high school, merely had a strong arm. Linse says she didn’t understand strategy. He showed her how to get better. She even baby sat his daughters. “People wanted to play for Schuh,” Linse said. “He was important in my high school life. Anytime you needed something, he was always there.” I’m your typical sports parent: squirming in the stands and second-guessing decisions. When Linse pitched at Central
CURRENT PHOTOS BY MIKE VLAHOVICH
University High School softball coach Jon Schuh keeps tabs on his team from the dugout (right) and offers base running instructions to second baseman Kirsten Anstrom (above). Washington University, I once left a stadium, my wife, Tambra, looking askance, unable to watch after Linse put runners on base in the seventh inning of a onerun game. When I returned, to my relief, she had pulled out the win, leaving the tying run at third, and I endured the deserved chiding that followed (oh, ye of little faith). That was never the case during her U-Hi softball career. For whatever reason, I ne’er had a doubt, calmly trusting that Schuh and savvy pitching coach, Don Owen, had the situation in hand. Schuh and his staff put players in spots where they can flourish. While he says he’s been blessed that so many girls in the Valley play softball, whether it’s the Spokane Girls Fastpitch league, on a travel team or Spokane Valley Girls Softball, I feel there’s more to it. The best coaches, I’ve concluded, have Pied Piper personalities that attract kids. He’s talked athletes who wouldn’t otherwise play softball into turning out. Coupled with the staff ’s knowledge and teaching ability, it’s made the program that much stronger. “We work on fundamentals every day, do situations every day and we hit every day,” Schuh said, assuming other coaches do as well. “You still can play (select) softball and have a bad habit. If you don’t fix it, it can catch up to you.” In coaching parlance, it’s called “playing the game the right way.”
Schuh was a baseball guy before switching to softball (having daughters, he said, it was a no-brainer). He was head softball coach at Central Valley for a year before coming to U-Hi. The biggest adjustment from baseball, he says, was the pitching change from overhand to underhand, not to teach pitching but…. “I had to learn how to pitch,” he clarified. “The first girls I coached can attest I wasn’t a very good pitcher, but I kind of hold my own now. That was the biggest thing. I had grown up with coaches who always pitched to me. I hated the pitching machine then, and I hate it now.”
$35 Registration Featuring Spokane’s Sweetest Finishers Festival
It may be an understatement when he admits being “a bit” intense, which can be off-putting to opposing fans. But, he said, building relationships with his players is the most important thing. My daughter echoed those exact words during a conversation. When coaches care and players trust in what they’re taught, how can they not help but succeed? Mike Vlahovich is a longtime Spokane Valley sportswriter and member of the Inland Northwest Hall of Fame Scroll of Honor.
The Current
36 • OCTOBER 2014
SPORTS
CV announces new Wall of Fame class By Mike Vlahovich
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
Central Valley’s Wall of Fame was enriched with a lineup that would make any coach drool. The impressive 10-member group from the 1980s and ’90s includes a Major League baseball player and his twin sister, an NFL kicker and football stars who were the foundation of 1997’s state champion team — and the trainer who cared for them. Kevin Stocker, who graduated in 1988 and played shortstop for the Philadelphia Phillies in the 1993 World Series, and Mike Hollis, 1990, who played nine years in the NFL, both reached the pinnacle of their respective sports. How would you like to field a football team that includes Hollis, GSL record setting rusher Tyree Clowe and line force Wil Beck off the 1997 champions, Rick Giampietri, the 1996 grad
who starred for his father, and 1986 speedster Ron Pasqualeat at its core? Jill Stocker, Kevin Clegg and longtime CV trainer Mark Whitley round out the impressive Wall of Fame class: Jill Stocker — Gymnastics and track standout was a two-time state champion in the vault and floor exercise in the former and was a three-event finalist in track. She is second all-time in the 100 meters (12.1 seconds) and 400 meters (57.2) and fifth at 200 meters (25.7) in track. She was also CV’s co-valedictorian and a Harvard graduate. Kevin Stocker — the baseball star who played eight years in the Major League after three years at the University of Washington, where he earned All-Pac 10 and NCAA All-American status. But he also led the Bears fourth-place basketball state finish, averaging
21 points per game, and was AllGSL in both sports.
Mike Hollis — After setting kicking records in the GSL and starring at Idaho, he played with Jacksonville, Buffalo and the New York Giants in the NFL where he made 200 of 250 field goals, among the top five percent in league history and finished with 879 points scored, playing in the 1998 Pro Bowl. He still conducts a kicking camp here each summer.
was MVP of the 4A football title game, rushing for 254 yards in the championship game. GSL career records include most points scored (342) and second in rushing yards (3,937). He is number two in state rushing for a season (2,436) and third for his career (5,411). Clowe also was state champion in wrestling.
Wil Beck — Dominant in football, he was All-State, 4A Washington Player of the Year and MVP of the summer East-West Game. He wrestled and was a district discus champion in track. At Idaho, he was Big West Conference football all-league mention for three years, making first team in 2000, when he was conference defensive MVP.
Rick Giampietri — The son of CV’s longtime football coach, Giampietri earned 11 letters in three sports at CV. He was AllGSL in football and wrestling, competing at state three years in the latter and placing third. He also was a two-time track state qualifier, placing third in the triple jump. Another Idaho gridder, he was a special teams player of the year and team captain. He went on to be a fighter pilot and pilot trainer in the Air Force.
Tyree Clowe — The two-time All-State football running back
Ron Pasquale — Besides playing football, he holds several school
records in track: the 400 meters (48.3), 200 (22.0) and second in the 100 (10.8). His 48.8 time remains the Mooberry Relays record. Kevin Clegg — The 1984 graduate competed in both cross country and track. He ran the third-fastest 1,600 meter time in school history (4:18.3) and was 1983 cross country MVP, placing second at the 1983 Kinney Shoes Western U.S. championships. Clegg continued his career at the Community Colleges of Spokane and is a member of its Hall of Fame.
Mark Whitley — For 26 years, he was a familiar face on the sidelines as a pioneering trainer, providing medical assistance and instruction on injury prevention and rehabilitation. He established a summer speed and agility camp and traveled with CV teams throughout the state at his own expense.
Freeman, U-Hi off to strong start on gridiron By Mike Vlahovich
CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR
There were cheers and tears through the first third of the 2014 football season. The Freeman Scotties have taken up where they left off a year after they won the Class 1A state football championship, beating their first opponents of 2014 by a combined 125-7 score.
Surprising University started off the season with a bang, piling up 179 points to go 3-1 and were very nearly perfect. The Titans led Ferris going into the final quarter before giving up 19 points during the 45-36 loss. West Valley started 2-2 while East Valley was 1-3. A pair of running backs highlighted the first three weeks. UHi’s Bryce Williamson rushed for 624 yards, including 235 and five touchdowns against the Saxons. • • •
• •
SPACIOUS HOME ON A CORNER LOT 18109 E. Knox Ave. Spokane Valley 99016
Luke Brown 208-964-3838 info@lukebrownrealtor.com
$210,000
• •
The Scotties’ Markus Goldbach has been nigh on impossible to stop as well. In their first win he gained 236 yards and scored four touchdowns, one defensively. He scored four more times against Newport giving him nine for the season. East Valley quarterback Connor Ramm passed for five touchdowns in three games, four to Tanner Jacobs. West Valley’s Zech Herford, Jace Malek and quarterback Austin Lee have done their share of damage. The Eagles
3Bd/2.5Ba
scored 28 points in the first quarter during a 55-6 dismantling of Rogers.
Volleyball University leads the way in a sport that’s been particularly strong in the Spokane Valley to date. The Titans defeated four Greater Spokane League opponents in non-counters, won its league opener and finished second to the hosts in the Lewiston Invitational. Reigning GSL MVP Sydney
Schlect was the kills leader, but the uncanny blocking of Brooklyn Tacke was huge in their wins. Libero Jaycee Schuh averaged 15 digs per match in the backcourt. East Valley’s only loss was to the Titans. The Knights were led by hitter Jordan Phelan and setter Emily Sior. West Valley’s Erin Higbie continued as kills leader for a winless team.
See NOTEBOOK, page 38
Cyclists make extra stop
1,850sf Two water features and a tranquil backyard retreat Sprinkler system Close access to and Centennial Trail, I-90 and Greenacres Park SS appliances Tile and stone backsplash
•
Gas fireplace
•
Central air
SUBMITTED PHOTO
The Bike Hub’s Monday night women’s ride included a special stop at The BrickHouse’s 10th anniversary party in August.
OPINION
The Current
OCTOBER 2014 • 37
Being a community ‘teammate’ is part of our responsibility By Erik Puthoff
CURRENT GUEST COLUMN
Letters to the Editor Arritola the right choice for state rep I am supporting Josh Arritola because he understands our community’s needs and is willing to find solutions at the state level that reflect practical solutions for today’s spending and revenue problems. Josh’s core values of integrity, service and excellence align for us here in Liberty Lake. As a former Air Force officer, he has proven experience in leadership and achieving his objectives. He led over 200 men in his squadron, achieved second best unit FMC rate for A-10s and was ahead of schedule and under budget for his production team. As a businessman, he has signed both the front and back of a paycheck. The entrepreneurial spirit he embodied on leaving the Air Force has created over 30 jobs by following his passion to help communities by creating the company Haploos. As CEO of Haploos, he guides a company that helps business refine their processes to be most efficient and effective in delivering their products. The state of Washington can truly benefit from that training and experience. Our city issues are nonpartisan. Josh identifies with that as he is used to finding solutions to complex problems and will build bridges in Olympia, not tear them down. He understands “the politics of the possible.” He knows we need to embrace structural change to succeed in the 21stcentury and has new ideas on transportation, education, community policing and health. His words turn into actions that lead us to be proud of the accomplishment. I look forward to working with Josh Arritola because he believes it's no longer
good enough to just say “no.” Josh believes saying “no” must be attached to a solution that leads to “yes.” Join me in voting for Josh Arritola as our representative in Olympia. He will be truly “working for you.”
Steve Peterson
Mayor, Liberty Lake
Growing ostomy awareness Most people fear hearing the dreaded words: “You’ve got cancer.” However, there’s another “C” word that few talk about — a colostomy. Eight years ago, when my radiation doctor said I needed a colostomy, I had no idea what he was talking about. Later, I feared what it would be like to live with one. Saturday, Oct. 4, is International Ostomy Awareness Day. An ostomy is a surgical procedure to temporarily or permanently re-route your elimination system. It uses an external bag to remove liquid or solid waste. Due to complications from a disease or an injury, over one million Americans have an ostomy. Each year, over 130,000 people receive these life-saving surgeries. At the monthly Spokane Ostomy Group, I’ve met remarkable men and women, young and old, who inspire me to live a full life, to overcome my fears and to gain practical tips. An 86-year-old amputee with a colostomy enjoys his birthday every year by going water-skiing. Several members wear two bags — a urostomy for liquid waste and a colostomy for solid waste. They are so attractive and well-dressed that you’d never guess what’s tucked under their jeans. Another recently commemorated the 36th anniversary of her ileostomy that’s helped her to cope with Colitis and raise three healthy children to adulthood. She continues to
The fall season is upon us, and with it comes the return of football. The sights and sounds are vivid. Stadiums will be filled with people collectively cheering and rooting for their team. Football has rooted itself deep in American culture. It’s a mainstay of our media, and the game has become a popular conversation topic within our social circles. Whether you’re a fan of the game or not, you can’t help but take notice; it’s football season in America. Fans of the game love to talk about their favorite team and their hopes for its success. Those who aren’t fans, however, see a field of organized chaos. What they may fail to notice is that each player plays a vital role to the overall success of the team. Players have a responsibility to perform in various roles to the best of their abilities. Yes, they must work together to strive toward the same goal: winning. Each of them has individual duties to perform and a responsibility to encourage those around them. A strong team can overcome even the greatest odds. Maybe the great football coach, Vince Lombardi, said it best: “Individual commitment to a group effort. That’s what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.” It is here where the similarities between exercise almost five days a week, attending Pilates classes, running or walking. Celebrate Ostomy Awareness Day by being grateful for the simple things in life you might take for granted. Be patient if someone’s taking longer than you expected in a restroom. For more information, contact the United Ostomy Association of America at www.uoaa.org, or visit the Spokane Ostomy Group I facilitate on the first Tuesday of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Providence Sacred Heart Hospital. For more information, contact me at 255-6676 or weller.susie@gmail.com.
Susie Leonard Weller
Liberty Lake
a successful football team and a healthy community shine brightly. We each have a responsibility to perform our roles to the best of our abilities and encourage others to do the same. When those around us stumble and fall, we must remember our responsibility as a teammate and offer to help them get up off the ground. In athletics, we consider this good sportsmanship. In life, it’s called being a good person. Our community depends on all of us. It doesn’t stop with us as individuals. We are one team. We must urge the organizations and corporations within our community to do their part and give back. They have a social and moral responsibility to participate and engage with the community. They should be encouraging their peers to do the same. We have a responsibility to search for companies and organizations that support our shared community values and support them with our patronage. We should expect them to contribute to the community if they want to be a part of it. After all, community is everything. Being responsible doesn’t just benefit ourselves and our loved ones, it affects us all as a community. We become strong by fulfilling our responsibilities. Like the legendary British Prime Minister Winston Churchill once said, “The price of greatness is responsibility.” Erik Puthoff is a community development officer for STCU working to bring financial literacy into the community. He volunteers on multiple boards, including PACE and the Spokane Parks Foundation. He wrote this column as part of a series highlighting the PACE character trait of the month. The trait for October is responsibility.
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
The Current
38 • OCTOBER 2014
SPORTS
NOTEBOOK Volume 3, Issue 10 EDITOR/PUBLISHER
Josh Johnson
GENERAL MANAGER
Tammy Kimberley
Sarah Burk
josh@valleycurrent.com tammy@valleycurrent.com GRAPHICS EDITOR
sarah@valleycurrent.com CIRCULATION Dean Byrns Mike Wiykovics
circulation@valleycurrent.com CONTRIBUTORS
Shaun Brown, Lauren Campbell, Gwendolyn Haley, Craig Howard, Mary Kate Koch, Treva Lind, Valerie Putnam, Halle Shepherd, Craig Swanson, Mike Vlahovich, Bill Zimmer
On the cover: Current design concept by Sarah Burk
About
The Current 23403 E. Mission Avenue, Suite 102 Liberty Lake, WA 99019 P: 242-7752; F: 927-2190 www.valleycurrent.com
The Current is published monthly. It is distributed by or before the first of each month to drop-off locations in Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Millwood, Rockford, Otis Orchards, Newman Lake — just about anywhere that has historically been referred to as part of Spokane’s Valley.
Submitted materials Announcements, obituaries, letters to the editor and story ideas are encouraged. Submit them in writing to editor@valleycurrent.com or mail them to The Current office. Submissions should be received by the 15th of the month for best chance of publication in the following month’s Current.
Subscriptions Subscriptions for U.S. postal addresses cost $12 for 12 issues. Send a check and subscription address to P.O. Box 363, Liberty Lake, WA 99019 or call 242-7752 for more information. Subscriptions must be received by the 15th of the month in order for the subscription to begin with the issue printed the end of that month.
Correction policy The Current strives for accuracy in all content. Errors should be reported immediately to 2427752 or by email to editor@valleycurrent.com. Confirmed factual errors will be corrected on this page in the issue following their discovery.
Advertising information Display ad copy and camera-ready ads are due by 5 p.m. on the 15th of the month for the following month’s issue. Call 242-7752 for more information.
Advertising Integrity Inaccurate or deceptive advertising is never knowingly accepted. Complaints about advertisers should be made in writing to the Better Business Bureau and to advertise@valleycurrent.com. The Current is not responsible for the content of or claims made in ads.
Copyright © 2014 All rights reserved. All contents of The Current may not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
Continued from page 36
Soccer Three’s company at the CV NOTEBOOK top. University, ONLINE West Valley and Looking for East Valley all an update started strongly on Central in the first three Valley High School weeks of the sports? Contributor season. Mike Vlahovich wrote The Titans an all-Bears report were unbeaten; for The Current’s the Frontier sister publication, The duo had lost Splash. View it online once each, WV at www.libertylakesbeating the plash.com or check Knights 2-1 on out the full issue at late goals by Abby Swanson issuu.com/thesplash. and Kelce Koshnee. U-Hi comes at you in waves. Ten different players scored in their first four matches. Three — Morgan Crosby, Kelsi Walker and Kendyl Rockom — had two apiece. Jena Sullens with five goals, Morgan Williams and Swanson with three apiece, led the Eagles. Knight Skylar Bastin had scored five goals. Micaela Verdal scored both goals to beat Clarkston, her winner coming in 61 minutes.
Love The Current? Support our partners. The Current is committed to “informing, connecting and inspiring” the Greater Spokane Valley area through excellent community journalism. We can’t do it at all without you, our readers, and we can’t do it for long without support from our advertisers. Please thank our business partners and look to them when offering your patronage. Our sincere appreciation to the following businesses for their foundational partnerships with The Current and its partner publications:
Liberty Lake
PORTAL at Mission & Molter
Cross Country University’s one-two-three punch of Isaac Barville, Patrick Miranne and Hunter Simpson produced a sweep in its first GSL boys cross country meet and helped the team to second place in the Mountain West meet in Missoula. The trio went one-two-three respectively in the race against Lewis and Clark, assuring victory. Simpson placed ninth and Miranne 10th in Montana as the Titans placed just 11 points behind winner Glacier and well ahead of three other GSL schools. Top three Great Northern League runners, EV’s Scott Kopczynski and Chad Stevens finished 2-3 at the Eric Anderson Invitational at Plantes Ferry Park and WV’s Skylar Ovnicek took eighth.
Softball University piled up the hits and runs on their way to an 8-0 GSL start, including its showdown 9-6 win over rival Central Valley. To name a few of the many big hitters: Courtney Awbery, Kirsten Anstrom and Kara Welter. Alexis Ivankovich continued her stellar pitching.
Find us on Facebook!
Barlows Family Restaurant • City of Liberty Lake Clark’s Tire and Automotive • Family Medicine Liberty Lake • George Gee John L. Scott Real Estate • KiDDS Dental Liberty Lake Liberty Lake EyeCare Center • Liberty Lake Family Dentistry Liberty Lake Orthodontics • North Idaho Dermatology • STCU
Index of advertisers Following are the local advertisers in this issue of The Current. Adagio Strings Al French for Commissioner Amaculate Housekeeping Barlows Restaurant Carver Farms Casey Family Dental Central Valley School District Central Valley Theatre Central Valley Theatre City of Spokane Valley Clark’s Tire & Automotive Coldwell Banker - Luke Brown Committee to Elect Josh Arritola
15 Insert 12 11 13 3 11 5 5 15 3 36 Insert
Committee to Elect Matt Shea Insert Cornerstone Pentecostal Church 13 Cornerstone Pentecostal Church 32 Evergreen Fountains 21 Inland Empire Utility Coord. Council 3 Inland NW Baby 35 Jim Custer Enterprises 11 Kathrine Olson DDS 15 KiDDS Dental 19 Lakeside Holistic Health 13 Liberty Lake Family Dentistry 5 Liberty Lake Orthodontics 13 Millwood Community Presbyterian 15
Northern Quest Resort & Casino 40 Northwest Insurance Brokers 32 Providence Health Care of Spokane 1 Russian School of Piano Art 13 Seimears Financial Group 2 Side by Side Counseling Services 12 Simonds Dental Group 40 Spokane County Library District 26 Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce 22 The Treasure Trove/Pirate Traders 5 Church Directory 17 Service Directory 31
Of note: This thank you message was produced by The Current’s advertising team, which works its tail off on behalf of partner businesses, helping them share their messages through advertisements. This is an independent function from The Current’s editorial team, which has its own evaluation process to determine the community news stories and features it pursues. For more information about a win-win partnership that expertly markets your business to thousands of readers (while making this home-grown community newspaper possible), email advertise@valleycurrent.com. With story ideas, contact editor@valleycurrent.com.
The Current
PARTING SHOTS
SPLASH PHOTOS BY HALLE SHEPHERD, JOSH JOHNSON AND TAMMY KIMBERLEY
Clear skies and warm temperatures provided a perfect setting for the 25th anniversary of Valleyfest, Sept. 19-21. Swarms of people came to CenterPlace and Mirabeau Point Park over the weekend for hot air balloon launches, entertainment, races, a car show and activities for kids among the vendor booths.
OCTOBER 2014 • 39
The Current
40 • OCTOBER 2014
Sparkling white. 22106 E. Country Vista Drive Suite D • Liberty Lake
www.LibertyLakeDental.com CALL TODAY!
With Purchase of a New Patient Exam, Necessary X-rays & Recommended Cleaning. Offer expires 10/31/14.
Dr. Ross Simonds • Dr. Amanda Roper
“HE DOES THIS FOR THE POINTS... AND BECAUSE I TOLD HIM TO.”
Introducing New Camas Rewards. It’s not just for gaming anymore. Now you can earn POINTS for every way you play at Northern Quest. From your hotel room, to the spa, to dinner, to shopping and more – you’ll be earning more POINTS and COMP DOLLARS than ever. And with five earning levels, the more you earn, the better it gets.
Camas Rewards. FOR ALL THE WAYS YOU PLAY.