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2

• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

RIVER CROSSING

Trusted Voice

Happy thrives as face of SVFD

By Craig Howard Current Contributing Editor Not many public spokespeople have sought inner peace on The Camino de Santiago, but maybe that’s why Julie Happy seems so composed when fielding tough questions at a press conference or making a point with inquiring media.

Happy sought out the pilgrimage in Spain – also known as “The Way of St. James” – at a point when she had decided to pursue studies in theology and become a chaplain.

Happy said the meandering journey, which leads to the shrine of St. James at a cathedral in northwestern Spain, helped her “find peace in life.”

Happy did earn her master’s in theology courtesy of another saint – St. Joseph’s College of Maine – but took a different career route in lieu of a chaplain. For nearly seven years, she worked for the city of Spokane as a division manager, becoming the face of Washington’s second largest jurisdiction on topics ranging from the latest snow plowing routes to breaking down the strategic plan to promoting economic development.

Happy recalls the steep learning curve in her first three months with the city.

“It was not a great start,” she said.

“But I had an amazing mentor in (former Director of Communications and Marketing) Brian Coddington.

His approach to public service and public engagement taught me the value of being innovative and strategic in my communication approach.”

Happy made a smooth transition to the world of public relations, adeptly representing Spokane on television and radio. A natural introvert, the adjustment to a role in the public eye was part of Happy’s routine approach to challenging herself.

“I put myself in uncomfortable situations so I can grow and learn,” she said.

Earlier this year, Happy made another move that would fall outside the comfort zone for many. She applied for a high-pressure position as Community Affairs Manager with the Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD), got the job and started on June 3.

One of her first major responsibilities was to promote and coordinate SVFD’s annual open house at the department’s Training and Fleet Maintenance Center in late September. Despite chilling conditions and occasional snow flurries, the event drew nearly 600 people.

“I’ve really enjoyed it,” said Happy of her new role. “They really care here. It’s like a family, and the work ethic and professionalism is off the charts.”

Happy grew up in the Puget

Sound area as the youngest of four kids. Her father worked in the Air Force but, unlike many military families, moving across the country and the world was not part of the agenda. Happy remembers being “a nerdy kid” who loved school and books.

“I never missed school,” she says.

“I liked learning.”

After graduating from Lynwood High School, Happy enrolled at Brigham Young University with thoughts of pursuing a degree in psychology. After a year at BYU, she transferred to Ricks College and later to Bellevue Community College where she began studying nursing.

Part of her prerequisite courses included a class in communications.

That class led to a shift in studies as Happy made the move across the mountains and enrolled at Eastern Washington University as an intercultural communications with minors in Spanish and English

Photo by Craig Howard Julie Happy became the Community Affairs Manager for the Spokane Valley Fire Department in June. She previously worked as a division manager with the city of Spokane.

as a Second Language. After earning her undergraduate degree, Happy went on to secure a master’s in communications with a minor in women’s studies and Spanish.

She worked as an adjunct professor at EWU for a time but found teaching was not an ideal career fit. Happy left academia for the wine industry, working on the marketing side and traveling extensively while based in the Tri Cities and later Spokane.

That professional juncture ended when Happy began to feel unfulfilled.

“I just felt I wasn’t being loyal to myself,” she said.

That search for solace led Happy to Spain and the path of St. James.

While work is important to Happy, family takes precedence.

She is a dedicated mom to four kids, ages 14, 26, 30 and 33.

Q: Growing up, you were a self-described nerd, introvert and bookworm. Did you ever think you would thrive in a profession where you were the public face of various entities, consistently communicating on such a broad level -- almost the professional version of an extrovert?

A: Absolutely not! I thought I would be more like a psychiatrist in an office working one-on-one with someone. It took a whole lot of personal effort to overcome being shy and awkward to get to where I am. I don’t think I ever really talked at home, even when I was younger. I was known as the quiet one my entire life until I went to college. I took one required college communications class, and my life changed. I found my passion which led to finding my confidence and empowering my personal strength.

I knew I was smart and that I had life strength, meaning when bad things happened, I always got back up and tried again. But it took that strength and perseverance and gave it confidence. That is a powerful combination for me. It got me out of my shell. Slowly, I confronted one fear after another and my confidence

The Current

NEWS

DECEMBER 2019 • 3

just took off. That and some really A: I love the history of religion, continue to be impressed with the businesses look to relocate. There is great teachers combined with a and I loved the idea of becoming quality of professionalism that exists no better fire department on this side whole lot of desire on my part to be a chaplain. I remember one of my at the city. Citizens care more than of the Cascades than the SVFD. They better than I was. It was an amazing college professors saying, “People I thought. They are involved and consistently have a higher standard empowering recipe for success for don’t listen to each other anymore, want to help shape how their city is of performance that is recognized me. However, even now, despite that’s why we need therapists.” I managed. nationally. my work, I still like to fly under love to listen to people. I love human Q: Many jurisdictions aren't Q: Why were you interested the radar. I prefer to defer praise behavior as well. Although those in a financial position to justify in applying for the job with the or attention to other people around two things may sound different to a full-time communications Spokane Valley Fire Department? me when in public situations. each other, they are very similar. specialist who can tell the ongoing A: I learned so much from Thankfully in every career direction Everyone has a story unique to them story of their town or city. How working at the city of Spokane about I’ve chosen, I have been surrounded and their story makes up who they important is this position when all the different aspects involved by people who make me look good. are and how they behave. It’s when it comes to engaging citizens and in making a city run efficiently They understand the direction I you can hear a person’s story you can strengthening the connection and effectively.

When the SVFD want to go, and they help me get position became available, it there. I just get to be the face seen seemed like a natural transition in public for all the great work “They really care here. It’s like a family, and the and opportunity. I really liked the that goes on behind me. idea of being able to focus on one work ethic and professionalism is off the charts” Q: What has reading meant to area. Now that I’m here, I love you throughout your life?

- Julie Happy, SVFD having a more narrowed focus A: Reading is definitely versus the multiple departments my escape, where I renew my and competing interests for my energy, where I find comfort and begin to understand their behavior between a community and its time that occurred frequently at the calmness and, most assuredly, my and why they make the choices they government? city. Coming from there, the SVFD safe place. I have an old soul. I just do in life.

A: The SVFD is funded through thought I might be bored with just crave information, knowledge and Q: What did you learn about a levy that occurs every four years. them to devote all my attention. Au continuous learning. I didn’t have a the inner workings of municipal Similar to an election, there is a contraire, it is amazing and fun to lot of friends growing up probably government during your time with big push right before the levy is to serve these people. They do some because I am a nerd and would the city of Spokane that you weren't be voted on to get in front of the really cool stuff that I love sharing rather be home reading a book aware of before? public and share the value the SVFD with the public, and it all keeps me than outside playing. Even from a very busy and always thinking of A: I think I am a much better provides to the communities it very young age, all I did was read. innovative ways to demonstrate their citizen having spent six years at serves. A much better approach is to Currently, I have three books I’m incredible value to this community. the City of Spokane. They receive a show that value every day of every reading. One book for fun, one for Q: What have you learned about lot of public criticism, but I can tell year. The SVFD does so many things emotional intelligence and one for to improve safety, operations and SVFD in your first few months you, the people I worked with were professional growth. I think my service to the community.

It isn’t there? some of the most professional and audible has 50 books I’m interested dedicated people I have ever met. just fire or EMT calls, though those A: The SVFD is highly regarded in, and there are 10 or more physical As a public servant they genuinely are central and demonstrate the high in the Spokane metro area. The books stacked on my “not read” want to make a difference and to value of the SVFD to the community. SVFD does so much community shelf I’ve purchased to make sure I make Spokane as good as it can be. The SVFD provides a level of safety service, it is amazing. On or off-duty, don’t run out of things to read.

I have never seen so much attention and community response equating this department is heavily involved Q: You earned your master's in and energy put toward making sure to lives saved that is unchallenged in serving their community. It is theology with a goal of becoming citizens had an array of methods on this side of the state. Because awe- inspiring how much they care. a chaplain. While your career path in which they could contribute of that high level of service and And, they want to be good at what took a different route, have you to a project, a planning process, a commitment, the SVFD provides they do. In fact, they strive to be as been able to incorporate any of that service or just provide an opinion in the community with economic good as they can be. They are the advanced degree and training in general. The customer service focus development support as well. Public your other job roles?

See HAPPY, Page 5 ran through every department. I safety is a top consideration when

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• DECEMBER 2019

BUSINESS

The Current

Dan Alsaker: Family man, business man, community leader

By Linda Ball

Current Contributor

Dan Alsaker started working in his parents’ business as a kid, tackling every imaginable position until he left for college. A 1968 graduate of Central Valley High School, Alsaker returned to the family business, The Broadway Group, right after graduating from the University of Idaho in 1972, where he earned his bachelor’s in business management.

He then became the manager at the fuel stop and restaurant, now called the Broadway Flying J Travel Plaza just off of I-90 in Spokane. Now, he is the president and CEO. Alsaker’s father, Don Alsaker, was a logger turned gas station manager.

In 1963, with partners Chuck and Agnes Williams, the two men decided to move a facility they operated to the newly constructed Interstate 90.

In time, the senior Alsaker bought out Williams, brought on his wife, Bernice, and worked hard to build up the business and bring weary travelers quality fuel and great food at a fair price. His parents are now gone, but Dan has continued to provide a respite for interstate travelers, even as the times have changed.

In 1986, Alsaker bought into a thenupcoming franchise called Flying J, a North American chain of truck stops in the U.S. and Canada, now headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., in order to grow the business. Alsaker’s Broadway Group has since expanded to seven locations, which comprise 1 percent of Flying J’s 750 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Initially, the senior Alsaker started out with American Oil product, which became Husky Oil which sold out to Flying J, named so because founder Jay Call was an aviator who was nicknamed “Flying J.” Unfortunately Call was killed piloting his aircraft when a massive stroke left him unable to control the aircraft. Just in the past year, Flying J was sold to investor and magnate Warren Buffett, who did not change the name of the well-known travel centers.

Along the way, Alsaker has also purchased two wholesale fuel companies which sell fuel to smaller retailers, enabling those gas stations to get a better price on fuel. Aware of the changing energy landscape, at the company’s Battle Mountain, Nev.,

Photo by Linda Ball Dan Alsaker has worked for his family’s Spokane Valley-based truck stop company, The Broadway Group, since he was a child growing up in the 1960s and attending Central Valley schools. location on Interstate 80, it has the first fast-charger for electric vehicles in Nevada.

At present, the Broadway Group has seven truck stops, including Spokane. The others are in Ellensburg, Battle Mountain, Belgrade, Mont.; West Spokane on Geiger Boulevard; Pasco; and Hardin, Mont.

But fuel isn’t the only product offered by the Broadway Group. Four locations have full-serve, diner-style restaurants, offering everything from pancakes to a steak -- comfort food, as Alsaker called it. They did have a fresh seafood house and a standalone restaurant called Saks, but those have been sold. The full-serve restaurants are in Spokane, Ellensburg, Battle Mountain and Belgrade. The other three locations offer faster options, including Subway, Broadway Deli and Cinnabon. Alsaker said patrons often prefer food to go, and the company has also enlisted the services of Door Dash, Uber Eats and the like.

The group has four casinos as well, three in Montana and one in Battle Mountain.

At one time, the Broadway Group also had three hotels, but those have been sold, and a small trucking company was also sold.

What is truly amazing is the

longevity and loyalty of the people who work for Alsaker. He has at least a half-dozen employees who have been with him for more than 40 years. And if all of this isn’t enough to keep him busy, he is a lobbyist and government affairs chairman for the National Association of Truck Stop Operators.

In late October, he was in D.C. on behalf of the group, advocating for better roads and lower gas tax.

Human trafficking is a major concern of his as well, given that much of this abhorrent activity takes place along the interstate highways.

“We’ve been silently successful with our Blue Campaign,” said Alsaker, which deals with issues including child labor, indentured servitude and sex trafficking.

He also lobbies on behalf of SNAP, to make food for SNAP recipients available in convenience stores and truck stops. He serves on the board of directors of the Restaurant Association of Washington, is board president at Grace Court Village, which provides housing for lowincome elders, and is on the board of the Vesterheim Nordic Museum in Iowa. Additionally, he served two full terms on the Interplayers Theater Board and was on the board of regents at Pacific Lutheran University.

An interesting story from his youth harkens back to his high school football career at CVHS. He was injured in a game, resulting in compressed vertebrae in his neck, which partially paralyzed him on the left side of his body. With physical therapy, he overcame his injuries and was good as new in a year; however, his football days were over.

Alsaker has been married for 46 years to wife, Anne. Together, they have four grown children, ages 45, 43, 41 and 39. The youngest son, Kjell Alsaker, is already in the family business as facilities manager.

Daughter Britt Alsaker-Smith is a certified LEED energy manager who is in charge of LEED for the company.

Daughter Kama is a mom in Bozeman who is an Ironman Athlete, and son Dyche is a computer animator.

As for thoughts of retiring, he hasn’t entertained them much. He said the learning curve for someone to take over would be “monumental.”

He does enjoy some free time, mostly flyfishing in Eastern Washington and chasing his four grandchildren, two boys and two girls. He travels mostly to the Nordic countries for genealogy, as he is working to put together a comprehensive family tree for his family.

The Current

HAPPY

NEWS

Continued from page 3 only Accredited Fire Department west of the Cascades. They equally have a uniquely high WSRB Rating of 2. And, when it comes to cardiac survival rates, the SVFD is distinguished nationwide for CPR and lives saved. It isn’t just fighting fires here at the SVFD; it is so much more. Where I thought the city was full of professionals, the SVFD is unmeasured when it comes to the level of professionalism that exists here both with the firefighters and with the administration. These people care about the community they serve. You can tell this by the level of excellence they are constantly striving for both out in the field with the firefighters and in the offices with the management and leadership practices. They never stop finding new and better-quality improvements to improve on their safety and customer service abilities.

Q: SVFD covers such a broad service area. How do you ensure that messaging covers that expanse and reaches all of those who rely on the department?

A: I learned so much from being at the city. When I first started and we would hold a public meeting for a project, it seemed like the same six people kept showing up for public participation. We needed to reach a broader group to have valid public input. Here at the SVFD I’m incorporating some of those strategies that were effective. We have so many more generations now, it takes a multimedia approach to reach everyone as well as some well-proven historical practices. I have kicked up our social media, media releases, blogging, website content and video is forthcoming.

We still send out an email newsletter, the HotLine. And, we still mail a bi-annual Gazette to every address in our service area. It is important to me that we reach as broad an audience as possible in as many ways as possible in order for people to receive information in the manner they like.

Q: You have had a very successful career, but it's clear that you'd rather talk about your kids than your resume. Why is family so important to you?

A: I work so I can provide for my family. I do not measure my success in life by success at work. I

measure my success by the health and happiness of my family. Now, that doesn’t mean I don’t care about being successful at work, I definitely do. I am a type “A” personality – not being successful is not an option!

I mean, my family is my life. They are my main people. Now that they are older, they are my friends and peers. We travel together, play together and rely on each other. My oldest daughter calls me every day, sometimes more than that. And I love it. She still needs me and seeks wisdom from me. I’m very proud of all of them. My son is in the Army and also very successful. My other daughter is a gifted artist and chef.

My youngest son is an incredible academic. There is nothing in life that makes me smile more than seeing them thrive in whatever adventures they choose. It’s like an artist who created something and then seeing that creation launch into something even more magnanimous than you imagined. They melt my heart.

Q: Finally, with a surname like Happy, do you ever feel pressure to always be smiling or at least reliably cheerful?

A: I have the good fortune of being a youngest child, a Gemini, and born on the 13th. I have a very unique personality that has a lot going on behind the eyes. I am always smiling for the most part.

When I am concentrating, however, I may have a bit of that not so good face going. I am pretty blessed and incredibly fortunate to have a life that is full of happiness – family, friends, and a workplace with really great people. Being the youngest of four, I watched my siblings and learned from them. I wanted to be happy. Throughout my life, I have tried to be flexible in my approach and make those choices that resonate with my heart and value system to keep me in balance and “happy.”

I’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way, thank goodness. It’s part of why I have an old soul. It was those mistakes, however, that helped me see where my truth and happiness really lived. Once I found that, it was easier to make the choices that fit for me. And then happiness was inevitable no matter what happened.

I mean painful things still happen, but I and my heart are still centered on choosing to be happy as a way of life. The alternative just seems too miserable and like a lot of work to maintain.

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Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) crews responded to a total of 1,502 emergency calls from October 15 – November 15, 2019.

By the numbers • Emergency Medical Services 1218 • Motor Vehicle Accidents 83 • Fires 68 • Building Alarms 54 • Dispatched and cancelled 32 • Service Calls 19 • Hazardous Materials 11 • Vehicle Fires 9 • Auto vs Pedestrian 4 • Technical Rescue 4 Highlights and the news include: Calls for EMS were significantly higher this time period, moving up from 1167 the month prior to 1218.

Working Fire, October 18, 4:18 a.m.

–SVFD units responded to a report of a house fire in the 4300 block of N Argonne. Residents called 911 to report a fire in the home, after awaking to the smell of smoke. Residents of the home escape route was initially blocked by fire in the living room. A secondary exit route was utilized to leave the home.

SVFD arrived on scene to a small home with heavy smoke and flames showing from the front door and living room window. Firefighters quickly deployed fire hoses to begin attacking the blaze. Engine 94 performed a quick search of the residence to confirm everyone was safely outside; however, a cat was discovered that did not survive.

Due to the quick knock down of fire by initial arriving firefighters, when Battalion Chief V-21 assumed command of the fire, he was able to downgrade the response to just the units on scene. This downgrade returned units from Spokane Fire and District 9 to their respective areas.

Firefighters had the fire extinguished in under 10 minutes but remained on scene for several additional hours to conduct an electrical hazard inspection in the home. This delayed investigators from entering the home until it was deemed safe to do so.

There were no reports of injuries to firefighters; and, the only reportable injury was the feline fatality.

HazMat Investigation – October See SVFD, Page 12

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The Current

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DECEMBER 2019 • 7

The Current

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By Spokane Valley Police Chief Mark Werner The maps provided below depict where citizens have reported Vehicle Thefts, Thefts from a Vehicle (also known as vehicle prowling), Burglaries and Thefts. As you view the map the color changes more red with increase of incidents reported in that location. Thefts from a vehicle is often under reported as people often feel nothing can be done or they only lost a small quantity of loose change.

However, the Spokane Valley Police Department and the Spokane County Sheriff’s office analyze this data to determine high crime areas and where to allocate resources. I encourage citizens who have been a victim of crime to call 911, if the crime is in progress, or Crime Check at 456-2233, if not in progress, to report a crime.

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Safety Awareness Channel

2019 October Vehicle Theft IBR Offenses Hotspots

Dense

Prepared By: Spokane County IT in conjunction with Spokane County Sheriffs Office on 11/7/2019

Dense

Prepared By: Spokane County IT in conjunction with Spokane County Sheriffs Office on 11/7/2019

SAFETY TIP OF THE MONTH

This time of year feelings of depression and anxiety can easily creep up or drop like a weight on us. Here are some tips; 1. Acknowledge your feelings.

2. Reach out. try to connect with others by getting together with friends and family or volunteering.

3. Be realistic. The holidays don’t have to be perfect. try to be flexible with the change and flow.

4. Set aside differences. Try to accept others as they are and forgive others to move forward.

5. Stick to a budget. Decide how much money you want to spend before you go out to avoid overspending which can cause stress.

6. Plan ahead. Set aside specific days and time for all your holiday traditions such as shopping, baking, etc.

7. Learn to say no. Set boundaries and don’t participate in activities that cause stress.

8. Continue with healthy habits.

Routines help relieve stress.

9. Take a breather. Make sure to keep some time to yourself.

10. Seek professional help if needed.

Please call 1-800-273-8255 or get in touch with a counsellor to help you through this difficult time.

8

• DECEMBER 2019

Council Limits Public Camping

By Bill Gothmann Current Contributor

Crisis Stabilization Facility Planned Spokane County is proposing a mental health crisis stabilization facility. Its goals are to divert those needing such help from being placed into jails, reduce recidivism, reduce the number of people who reenter society too soon because of inefficient treatment, and lower the number of people who are taken to emergency rooms. As it is now, if police encounter a law-breaking person who is under the influence of drugs or in need of mental health assistance, they have only two choices: book and release them or book and jail them. This would provide a third alternative to the person, one in which the individual’s problem is examined and appropriate treatment is provided. Their charge would be suspended until treatment is completed.

City Council received a presentation about the proposed facility from multiple agencies involved in the project.

The County has been working on the plan since August, defining a project plan, a pro-forma budget, and a cost allocation. The facility is meant to serve the entire Spokane County region and Commissioner

Come Join the Christmas Celebration

Greater Spokane Valley Rotary Club's Celebration of Lights event will be Thursday, Dec. 5 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Spokane Valley City Hall. The annual event includes holiday music from the Bowdish Middle School band and choir, a reading from the classic book "The Night Before Christmas" by members of Spokane Valley's City Council, the lighting of the tree, and finally Santa comes to town. Parking will be available in the city hall parking lot and an adjacent lot. Free hot chocolate and candy canes will also be available thanks to event sponsors.

NEWS

Mary Kuney was looking for a degree of buy-in from Spokane Valley before proceeding further.

Presenters noted that a similar diversion program (DP) in Snohomish County reduced the number of DP participants jailed from 43% to 25%, average jail time declined from 7.8 days to 4.5 days. The percent with an inpatient psych stay declined from 5% to 1%, substance use disorder participation increased from 33% to 82% and percent of persons housed increased from less than 1% to 45%.

The two core services offered by the facility would be mental health crisis stabilization and withdrawal management. The facility would house 42 beds, with 10 for diversion/ holdover, 16 for withdrawal management, and 16 for mental health crisis stabilization.

Annual operating costs are expected to be $4,527,000, with Medicaid to provide $3,240,000 of this. Year 1 costs can be reduced through Department of Commerce or Trueblood grants. The remaining fees for municipalities would be divided up, with Spokane Valley accounting for 3.42% of the cost, or about $10,000 per year. Council expressed that they want to continue to be involved in the planning.

New Park Regulations and Hours Council approved regulations trying to balance safety at the City’s parks and convenience to its citizens.

Parks will be open from 6AM to 9PM during the summer and 6AM to 7PM during the winter. Hot air balloons and inflatables , such as jumping

castles, will require a special event permit. The new regulations only permit disk golf and launching drones in approved areas. The approval vote was 6:1, with Council member Sam Wood dissenting. He preferred uniform park hours throughout the year.

Public Camping Prohibited from Three City Properties The recent “Martin vs Boise” decision by the appellate court prohibits the city from enforcing nosit and no-lie rules unless beds are available for the homeless. However, it does permit the city to prohibit such activity on specified properties. As a result, City Council unanimously approved a provision prohibiting camping at City Hall, Centerplace, and Balfour Park. In addition, it prohibits people from camping in RVs in city rights of way. Parking RVs is, however, permitted. A camp on any of the three properties would promptly be removed, whereas a camp on any other City property would be given a 48-hour notice.

In its request for council action, the city noted, “The causes of homelessness are complex and varied.

City staff continues to engage in discussions with staff from Spokane and Spokane County regarding potential regional approaches and staff will report back to Council at an appropriate time regarding those issues. At this time, however, there are no homeless shelter beds available in the City of Spokane Valley.” Eleven people testified that shelters were needed. However, none discussed how to finance them or where they might be located.

Pavement Ad Hoc Committee Defined After examining how other cities have addressed critical pavement funding, staff proposed an ad hoc committee having three primary goals. They would evaluate citizens’ interest and support for maintaining city streets and establish pavement condition goals.

They would identify preference for maintaining city streets, types of treatments used, and long-term levels of service.

They would investigate funding sources for maintaining city streets at the recommended level of service. The committee would be composed of 15 members: two council members, the Chamber director, the chamber transportation chair, one representative from

The Current

emergency services, two from regional transportation, one from industry, one from home builders or developers, two from general/small business, one from social/nonprofit services, and three neighborhood/ community representatives.

A professional facilitator will chair the committee. There would be eight outreach presentations, a web site, and promotion through advertising, social media, and earned media.

There was Council consensus to go forward with the proposal.

Lodging Tax Advisory Committee Recommends Grants In 2003, the city implemented a 2% hotel/motel tax, the proceeds of which are used to promote conventions and tourist travel to our city. The organizations to which the tax proceeds are distributed are ultimately determined by the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee which consists of two representatives from businesses that collect the tax, two people who are part of activities that receive grants from the tax, and one elected official, this year Council Member Sam Wood. The committee recommended setting aside $450,000 of the $795,000 budget for a “large sports venue or venues for tourism facilities that generate overnight guests.” The committee decided the remainder would go for grants to Hub Sports Center ($55,020), JAKT – Crave NW ($18,600), JAKT – Farmers Market ($8,000), JAKT – Oktoberfest ($8,400), Northwest Winterfest ($48,000), Spokane Fair and Expo Center ($66,000), Spokane Sports Commission ($45,000), Valleyfest ($18,600), Valleyfest Cycle Celebration ($1,380), and Visit Spokane ($50,000). Staff will return to council on Dec. 10 for action on this item. Because of state law, the council cannot change the allocations.

It must accept some or all of the recommendations, reject all and send it back to the committee for revision, or go through a lengthy process of rejecting the recommendation, making its recommendations, having these reviewed by the committee, then returning to the council for final action.

2020 Budget Approved Council gave final approval to the city’s 2020 budget, which was discussed in November’s edition of The Current. It tags spending at about $90 million over 24 funds, half of which goes into the General Fund.

The Current

General Fund expenditures increase about 3% over last year and revenues increase 6%. Capital expenditures are expected to be about $29 million with about $20 million of this to be supplied by grants. Planned capital projects include $8.3 million for streets, $1.5 million for parks, $4.2 million for pavement preservation, $13 million for railroad grade separation projects, and $1.0 million for stormwater and aquifer protection.

Works Rosters to be Sent to MRSC The city maintains four rosters of firms who can offer services to the city: a small works roster for contracting projects of $300,000 or less, an architectural and engineering services roster for contracts up to $100,000 and certain others over $100,000, certain qualifying nonarchitectural and engineering works, and one for purchase of goods costing less than $40.000. For a $575 annual membership fee, the Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) will take over the listing and maintenance or Spokane Valley’s rosters. Over 500 Washington State agencies use MRSC rosters. City Engineer Bill Helbig testified that, prior to coming to Spokane Valley, he used MRSC’s rosters for over ten years. Present cost for doing it ourselves is $1907.56 annually. City Council approved the use of MRSC rosters.

FMSIB 2000 Grant Cancellation Held Off In 2000, FMSIB awarded Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) a $3.36 million grant for the Pines Road/ BNSF Grade Separation Project (GSP). Spokane Valley incorporated in 2003. However, the grant has not exercised as Spokane Valley pursued

Save the Date March 7, 2020 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm Mirabeau Park Hotel

16th Annual Kiwanis Father Daughter dance.

A fundraiser hosted by the Liberty Lake Kiwanis club that invests in the children of our community.

Sponsorship opportunities available.

Contact Paul Nigh at 661-331-9521 for details

NEWS

other priorities. Thus, the project was placed in the “deferred” state. FMSIB last month was intending to cancel the grant, but Spokane Valley was successful in asking them to keep it in the deferred state, asking for a grant of 30% of project costs. “Deferred” means it will remain in suspension until funds are available. Because of the passage of Initiative 976, all WSDOT projects are now in jeopardy.

Comprehensive Plan Changes to be Considered The city considers Comprehensive Plan changes once each year. This year, six parcel zoning changes and one text amendment are requested.

Council removed two zone changes from the docket. Those remaining include: changing from Single Family Residential (SFR) to Corridor Mixed Use (CMU) a parcel on the east side of McDonald between Mission and Broadway; expanding the Regional Commercial area northeast of Sprague and Fancher; changing from Multifamily Residential to CMU north of Mission adjacent to Union; and Changing a nine acre parcel from Industrial to CMU on the east side of Sullivan south of Trent. The city is proposing a text amendment that would amend goals and policies for alternative housing types. Staff will bring a modified document back to Council on Nov. 19.

Pinecroft MHP Drinking Water Contamination City Council requested information on the drinking water contamination at the Pinecroft Mobile Home Park (MHP), located just west of Pines Road between Mansfield Avenue and Montgomery Drive.

Council asked what the city can or cannot do. MHP water comes from three private wells. Because the State Department of Health discovered E.

DECEMBER 2019 • 9

coli in the water, residents were told to boil any drinking water. The MHP is working on chlorinating the water, but the fix may not be completed until next summer. The city is unable to help because it is not a water purveyor, cities cannot require existing MHPs to connect to a sewer, and the State Constitution prohibits free gifts to any entity.

State Legislative Agenda Council agreed to a state legislative agenda that includes bridging the Valley, the Pines/BNSF Grade Separation Project, and stating that I-90- Barker-to Harvard cost overruns are not the responsibility of the city.

They ask a capital request for the Sullivan Park water line. They also seek economic development Tools, keeping local control, protecting and restoring state shared revenues, and reforming the business burden.

Major Changes to Census Count Next Year Alex Panagotacos, Spokane Census Committee Coordinator, reported to Council that there will be major changes to the census process next year. It will primarily be done via internet. Each home will get a code. They can then go on line and answer the short, 10-question census.

The Census Committee has identified a number of groups who will require extra effort to reach, such as young children, highly mobile people, nonEnglish speakers, low-income people, and a number of others. Spokane Valley has been identified as a difficult geographical area to reach. These will have to be contacted individually.

Last census, 200 persons were hired to do this. Next year, only 20 will be hired. All citizens are invited to a 5:30 pm, Dec.11, “Census 101” meeting at Centerplace to inform those interested.

Over 80

Council Briefs

• Council gave the goahead for staff to obtain land from for the Barker projects in the vicinity of Barker and Trent by eminent domain, if no agreement can be reached.

• Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich reported that, as of right now, all law enforcement slots have been filled by either officers on the streets, those in training, or offers having been made. The County also authorized the Sheriff to go above approved staffing levels and hire replacements in anticipation of retirements.

• Council approved an update of the Parks Master plan.

The new plan suggests specific areas where parks are needed and identifies other improvements • Council gave staff permission for a trial program for the City to remove snow from sidewalks along safe routes to schools this winter.

• City Manage Mark Calhoun announced that Spokane Valley was unsuccessful in their application for a federal BUILD grant for the Pines Grade Separation Project. Still, the City has secured about $8 million for the $29 million project.

• Council agreed to have the Planning Commission consider vacating 12th, 13th, and the alleyway between them from Chronicle to Carnahan, and Chronicle from 12th to 129 feet south of 13th.

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10

• DECEMBER 2019

COMMUNITY

The Current

Calendar of Events

COMMUNITY EVENTS Nov. 23 to Jan 2 | Winter Glow Spectacular – Various times, Orchard Park, 20298 E Indiana Ave Orchard Park will be lit up with Holiday lighting and displays, including animation and music. It’s all FREE, walkable or drivable around the perimeter.

Nov. 30 | Shop Mall Bingo Challenge in Millwood– 10am to 6 p.m., Argonne Library, 4322 N Argonne Rd. Visit the welcome station at the library for a listing of participating businesses and your bingo challenge activity sheet then complete the challenge as you shop at local stores in Millwood and return your completed card back to the library to receive a gift card from a local store (while supplies last). For more visit scld.org/sbs-2019/ Dec. 5 | Spokane Valley Celebration of Lights – 5:30pm, Spokane Valley City Hall, 10210 E Sprague Ave. Join your neighbors for holiday fun at the city’s Celebration of Lights, coordinated annually by the Spokane Valley Rotary. Enjoy seasonal music, the reading of the classic book “The Night Before Christmas” and the popular tree lighting ceremony. The event is free to attend.

Dec. 6 | Millwood Christmas Tree Lighting – 6pm to 9 p.m., Inland Empire Paper Company, 3320 N Argonne Rd. Dec. 7 | Holiday Craft and Bake Sale – 10am to 4 p.m., Spokane Valley Community of Christ, 11515 E. Broadway. Proceeds will go to our Abolish Hunger Funds: “Summer Free Lunch” and “Crosswalk” programs.

Dec. 7 | Bazaar and Craft Sale – 9am to 2 p.m., Rockford United Methodist Church, 211 S 1st Street, Rockford.

Handmade crafts, sewing items, homemade baked goods, cookies, candies and jams will be available for purchase, along with fresh mincemeat, decorations and a white elephant room. Lunch will also be served from 11am to 1pm Dec. 7 | Christmas on the Palouse – 9am to 2 p.m., Fairfield Community Center, 304 E Main St, Fairfield.

Vendors with craft and gift sales, Kids crafts at the Fairfield Library, Fairfield Museum open, and Christmas Tree Sales at Fairfield Park (sponsored by Fairfield Community Church), and Santa will be at the First Interstate Bank. Lunch will be served from 11am

to 1pm Dec. 13 and 14 | Chorale Coeur d’Alene “Christmas by Candlelight” Concerts – 7 p.m. (Dec. 13), and 2 p.m.

(Dec 14), Trinity Lutheran Church, 812 N 5th St, Coeur d’Alene. Chorale Coeur d’Alene will feature Benjamin Britten’s masterpiece A Ceremony of Carols, featuring harpist Janna Bisceglia Engell, and the heartwarming Joseph Martin cantata Tapestry of Praise: A Celtic Christmas. For tickets and more, visit choralecda.com Dec. 13, 14, and 15 | Cirque Noel – 7 p.m. (Dec. 13), 4 p.m. and 7pm (Dec 14), and 4pm (Dec 15) Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3606 S Schafer Rd. Cirque Noel is an annual community event attracting people of all backgrounds to view a one-of-a-kind telling of the Christmas story. There will be an incredibly talented mix of 40+ local artists to help tell the story in an uplifting, thought-provoking, visually stunning, and truly unconventional way -- appropriate for all ages and beliefs. For more, email frontdesk@ redeemeralive.org RECURRING ACT 2 Senior Classes | Affordable classes offered by Community Colleges of Spokane to those who are retired or planning to retire. A wide range of courses from geology and history to exercise and art are offered at CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place, as well as other locations throughout the area. For more, search for “Act 2” at scc.spokane.edu.

Baha’i Fireside Conversation | 7 to 8 p.m., third Thursday of the month, Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Discussion of Baha’i teachings, history and perspectives on resolving the challenges facing humanity. All are welcome. For more, call 599-2411.

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, call 951-7039 or email onsacredgrounsrising@gmail.com.

Catholic Singles Mingle | Meeting times and locations vary. This group, with no dues, is for single adults of all ages. More at www.meetup.com/ Catholic-Singles-Mingle.

Free Last Sunday Lunch | Spokane Valley United Methodist Church, 115 N. Raymond Road, Spokane Valley 12:30 p.m. on the final Sunday of every month in the church’s Fellowship Hall, Room 115

Grange Meeting and Dessert | 6:30 p.m., third Wednesday of the month, Tri-Community Grange, 25025 Heather St., Newman Lake. The public is welcome for this community-based service organization. For more, call 226-2202.

Men’s Weekly Bible Study | 7 a.m.

Tuesdays. Millwood Presbyterian Church, 3223 N. Marguerite Road, Millwood. The men’s weekly Bible Study meets in the Reception Hall with different members sharing in the leading of the study. All men are invited to join. More at www. milwoodpc.org.

Rockford Crochet Class | 10 a.m. to noon, Saturdays, Harvest Moon, 20 S. First St., Rockford. Free classes. We have crocheters, knitters, embroidery, quilting and needlepoint. Come and share what you are doing. For more, call 291-3722.

Spokane County Library District | Locations include Argonne, Fairfield, Otis Orchards, and Spokane Valley.

Special events and weekly activities for all ages including book clubs, children’s story times, classes, Lego club, teen anime club and writing clubs. More at scld.org.

Spokane Valley Eagles | 16801 E. Sprague Ave. 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.

More at www.foe3433.com.

Spokane Valley Partners Food Bank | Weekly distribution takes place Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10814 E. Broadway Ave. by appointment.

Appointments are available during the following days/times: Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m., Thursday, 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. (reserved for age 60 and over and physically-handicapped people with limited mobility). Address verification required. To make an appointment, call 927-1153, ext. 10, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Spokane Valley Senior Citizens Association | 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays at CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place. Activities include bridge, billiards, book club, Red Hat Ladies, Mahjongg, ACT II classes, foot care, Medicare assistance, monthly excursions to Northern Quest Casino, Meals on Wheels location and more.

Annual dues are $25/single or $45/ couple. For more, call 926-1937 or visit spokanevalleyseniorcenter.org.

MUSIC & THE ARTS Dec. 6 - 15 | 12 Days of Christmas – Various times., TAC at the Lake, 22910 E. Appleway Ave., Liberty Lake. With fresh dialogue and vivid characters, the 12 Days of Christmas is a playful, modern interpretation of the classic Christmas song. For more, visit tacatthelake.com.

Dec. 8 | Holiday Craft Fair – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Spokane Valley Adventist School, 1603 S. Sullivan Road, Spokane Valley. Handmade items, holiday decor and more. Free admission. For more, email svascraftfair@gmail.com or visit tinyurl.svascraftfair2019.

RECURRING The Fire Brigade| 7 p.m., first Saturday of the month, Ignite! Community Theatre, 10814 E. Broadway Ave., Spokane Valley. Ignite!’s improv troupe fires up family-friendly comedy.

For more, visit igniteonbroadway.org.

Pages of Harmony | 6:30 to 9 p.m., Wednesdays, Thornhill Valley Chapel, 1400 S. Pines Road. Four-part, a cappella harmony, men’s barbershop chorus. More at pagesofharmony.org.

Spirit of Spokane Chorus | 6:45 p.m.

Tuesdays, Opportunity Presbyterian Church, 202 N. Pines Road. Make new friends by joining this women’s chorus, specializing in four-part, a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. More at 218-4799.

Spokane Valley Camera Club | 7:15 p.m., third and fourth Monday of the month (September through April). Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District building, 22510 E. Mission Ave., Liberty Lake. All levels of ability—students through experienced photographers—are invited to learn.

Social events include field trips and workshops. More at 951-1446 or www. sv-cc.org Spokane Valley Quilt Guild | Meetings at 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of February, April, June, August, October and December at Valley Assembly of God Church, 15618 E. Broadway Ave., Spokane Valley. Open to all interested in sharing ideas and skills of our quilting craft. Participants can access a comprehensive library, engage experienced teachers and participate in community service projects. More at svqgspokane.com.

The Current

HEALTH & RECREATION

COMMUNITY

Dec. 8 | Hit it Hard! Volleyball Sizzler Warm Up! – 7:45 a.m., play starts at 8:45am, HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Presented

by Spike 2 Care in a sizzler warm-up coed format (4m/2w). Registration $25 per player deadline on Dec 4 For more, spike2care.org Dec. 15 | Saturday with Santa– 6 to 7:15 p.m., Liberty Lake Municipal Library, 23123 E. Mission Ave., Liberty Lake. Visit with Santa at our annual event! Make crafts while you wait for your turn to see Santa. Take your own photos or purchase them from Bugabu Images. Pre-registration required. For more, visit libertylakewa.gov/435/ Library RECURRING Al-Anon Family Meetings | Tuesdays, noon to 1 p.m., Opportunity Christian Church, 708 N. Pines, Spokane Valley.

Is there a problem of alcoholism with a relative or a friend? Al-Anon/Alateen family groups can help. For more, call 456-2125.

Decreasing Anger Group | 3 to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, the Vet Center, 13109 E. Mirabeau Parkway, Spokane Valley.

Eligibility: combat veteran from all eras, military sexual trauma survivors.

For more, call Steve at 893-4746 to make an intake appointment.

DivorceCare Recovery Support Group | Mondays 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Eastpoint Church, 15303 E. Sprague Ave. Learn how to heal from the deep hurt of divorce and discover hope for your future. DivorceCare for Kids (ages 5-12) meets at the same time and location. Cost is $25 for workbook.

More at 892-5255 or eastpointchurch. com.

Family and Friends of Addicts| 6 p.m.

Wednesdays, The ONE Church, 15601 E. 24th Ave., Spokane Valley. Support group utilizing tools and principles to help navigate relationships with addicts and finding peace, strength and hope. For more, call 590-2422.

GriefShare Support Group (Mondays)| 6:15 to 8 p.m. Mondays, The ONE Church, east entrance, 15601 E. 24th Ave., Spokane Valley. Most recent program began Feb. 20, but join at any time. Designed to help cope with loss, whether recent or years ago.

For more, call Sue at 294-1664 or Jere at 710-3354.

GriefShare Support Group (Thursdays) | 10 a.m. Thursdays, Spokane Valley Church of the Nazarene, 15515 E. 20th Ave. Most

recent program began Jan. 17 and runs 13 weeks, but join at any time. If you have lost a loved one and are dealing with grief, stop by to share or just listen. For more, call 926-1545.

HUB Sports Center | 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Various activities and events occur throughout the week including: • Homeschool PE drop in classes: 1st and 3rd Wednesday from 10:30am to 11:30am • Pickleball drop-in: 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Monday through Thursday; 9:30am to 11:30am Tuesday and Thursday; 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday. $3/ seniors, $5/non-seniors.

• Classes including Kenpo Karate, Taekwondo and Fit for YOUR Life. See hubsportscenter.org for cost and times.

Military Sobriety Support Group | 10 to 11:30 a.m., Spokane Vet Center, 13109 E. Mirabeau Parkway, Spokane Valley. For more, call Steve at 893-4746.

Mindful Music & Movement | 12:30 to 1:20 p.m. Wednesdays, Willow Song Music Therapy Center, 21101 E. Wellesley #102-103, Otis Orchards.

All are welcome to this session specifically designed for adults living with chronic health issues. Session addresses physical function, vocal wellness and strength, self-expression, breath work, movement, and increase of mood through music experiences, as facilitated by board-certified music therapist, Carla Carnegie. $10 per person. For more, email carla. carnegie@gmail.com or call 592-7875.

Yoga in Rockford | 5:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, Rockford Park, 20 W. Emma St., Rockford. In case of inclement weather, classes will be held at Dave’s Autobody, 8 W. Emma St.

DECEMBER 2019 • 11

Experience the Difference of Pentecost

Come and Pray with Us! Services: Sunday @ 11am & Tuesday @ 7:30pm Prayer: Monday-Saturday 6am-9am www.spokanecornerstonechurch.org 21326 E Mission Ave, Liberty Lake WA

CIVIC & BUSINESS Dec. 5 | CVSD Community Connections – 7:30 to 9 a.m., University High School, 12420 E 32nd Ave. Learn about U-High programs, including Army JROTC, AP Capstone, Career & Technical Education, computer science, choir, girls basketball and more. Also featuring an update on the 2019 Central Valley School District Report Card. Hot breakfast provided.

All are welcome, but seats are limited.

RSVP by e-mail to cbusch@cvsd.org or call 558-5532.

Dec. 12 | CVSD Community Connections – 7:30 to 9 a.m., North See CALENDAR, Page 12

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No attorney-client relationship is created by this ad, or your use of this ad. Neither your receipt of information from this ad, nor your use of this ad to contact Tate Law Offices, PLLC (hereinafter “the Firm”) or one of its lawyers creates an attorney-client relationship between you and the Firm. You will become a client of the Firm only if you sign an engagement agreement setting forth the scope of the Firm’s engagement, the fee arrangement, and other relevant matters. As a matter of policy, the Firm does not accept a new client without first investigating for possible conflicts of interests and obtaining a signed engagement letter.

12

• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

brought to you by

Student of the Month To say the resume of Teodoro Diaz-Gopar is varied would be an understatement.

The junior at East Valley High School has played tennis and baseball, was selected to play a lead role of the cowardly lion in an upcoming staging of “The Wizard of Oz” and is a member of EV’s chapter of Future Business Leaders of America. Through FBLA, Diaz-Gopar has been part of service projects that have benefitted causes like March of Dimes. The junior has also participated in marching band on percussions and as a vocalist with the class choir. He also volunteers at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, contributing to efforts that help homeless residents. This fall, he was the manager of the East Valley slowpitch softball team. “I really think it’s important to not just be a student but to be involved,” Diaz-Gopar said.

SVFD REPORT Continued from page 6

25, around 3 p.m. - SVFD was notified by dispatch that an unknown red fluid was leaking from a railcar on the Union Pacific spur line. A drive-by caller on Sullivan noticed a visible stream of red liquid leaking from a railcar. SVFD arrived first on scene and witnessed a red liquid leaking from a railcar under pressure and began requesting a full hazardous materials response which included units from Spokane Fire Department’s HazMat Team.

SVFD officer made contact with a Kemira official, who stated that the product was Ferric Chloride, and had been leaking for approx. 30min. The Kemira employee also stated that during a routine transfer of the product, a valve or pipe cracked. The leak was not immediately stopped by employees because of the method of transfer used.

The normal procedure is to pressurize the tank with air and allow the fluid to move under pressure. When the valve broke, the increased pressure forced the fluid out the hole, instead of through the lines to a holding tank. There was 6500gal of product on the ground and it appeared to responders that the spill was contained in a terrain sump and posed no further danger. There was no vapor or downwind hazards from

Athlete of the Month Excellence on the volleyball court is commonplace for East Valley senior Megan Lange. The three-year letterwinner was named to the All Greater Northern League first team this season and the second team last year. She was a co-captain on the 2019 squad. As an elite setter, Lange is the volleyball equivalent to a point guard in basketball. She collected 52 assists in a match against Clarkston last year. As a sophomore, Lange was part of an EV squad that placed eighth at the 2A state tournament. The Knights finished second in the GNL the last three seasons. Lange has been named the volleyball team’s distinguished scholar the past two years. She maintains a 3.91 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society. She is part of the Running Start program through Eastern Washington University.

the spill, despite strong winds. The Kemira employee also told SVFD that company spill protocols were initiated including notifying a private haz-mat clean up team, who had arrived prior to the fire department response.

After the investigation and product identification, the incident was released to Kemira for private cleanup. The Dept of Ecology was notified for follow-up, due to the size of the spill.

Working Fire, November 13, approximately 5:00 a.m. – SVFD crews responded to a call of a mobile home on fire. The home, near Appleway Blvd. and Vista Rd., showed flames throughout the windows when crews arrived. The front door was open and residents had evacuated the home with everyone inside out safe except for the 3 cats that were unaccounted for. The Red Cross was called and they were on hand to provide shelter for the residents of the home that were displaced.

Crews worked to knock down the fire. Due to the conditions of the inside of the home and the instability of the roof, crews were unable to enter the home and fight the fire internally. Due to the flammable nature of the home and the difficulty with the unstable roof conditions, the home had extensive damage. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Citizen of the Month The ongoing success of Valleyfest is due in no small part to people behind the scenes like Rick Wilhite. As president of the Valleyfest board, Wilhite has been a catalyst for the Valley’s signature community celebration. His service with the board spans over a decade. Wilhite was appointed to the finance committee for the Innovia Foundation several years ago. In 2011, Rick and his wife Diana were honored as Volunteers of the Year by the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce. Over 25 years ago, Wilhite launched a networking group in Coeur d’Alene that still meets to this day. As the owner of Safeguard Business Systems for 33 years, Wilhite expanded the client base to over 3,000 businesses in region and served on the National Safeguard Distributor Council. He is the current vice chair of the Republicans of Spokane County.

CALENDAR

Continued from page 11 Pines Middle School, 11900 E Broadway Ave. Is teaching positive character and social skills to middle school students possible? Experience how Character Strong curriculum creates clear academic and behavioral expectations at North Pines. Also featuring an update on the 2019 Central Valley School District Report Card. Hot breakfast provided. All are welcome, but seats are limited. RSVP by e-mail to cbusch@cvsd.org or call 558-5532.

Dec. 13 | Spokane Valley Chamber Non-Profit Showcase – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N Discovery Pl, Spokane Valley. Enjoy a strolling lunch with tasting stations throughout the room while hearing of the inspiring work of featured non-profit organizations.

For more or to register, visit spokanevalleychamber.org.

Dec. 18 | After 5 Networking – 4:30 to 6 p.m., Lilac Family Eye Care, 23505 E Appleway Ave, Ste 106, Liberty Lake.

Business connection event organized by the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce. Free to members, $10 non-members. For more or to register, visit spokanevalleychamber.org.

RECURRING

Come visit your Spokane Valley Neighborhood Financial Center located at

615 N Sullivan Road

800-233-2328

Thanks you for all you do in our community Spokane Valley City Council | Regular meetings held the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers at Spokane Valley City Hall, 11707 E. Sprague Ave., Ste. 101. Council study sessions are held the first, third and sometimes fifth Tuesdays at 6 p.m., also in Council Chambers.

Millwood City Council | Regular meetings at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at Millwood City Hall, 9103 E. Frederick Ave. Spokane Flag Museum | Sponsored by the Sons of the American Revolution and the Fairmount Memorial Association, details the rich history of the American flag, Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pines Cemetery, 1402 S. Pines Road, Spokane Valley. For more, call 926-2753 or visit fairmountmemorial. com/south-pines-cemetery.

Spokane Valley Kiwanis | 6:45 a.m.

Tuesdays, Valley Hospital Education Center, 12606 E. Mission Ave. More at spokanevalleykiwanis.net.

Greater Spokane Valley Rotary | Noon to 1 p.m. Wednesdays, Darcy’s, 10502 E. Sprague Ave. More at svrotary.org.

Submit items for The Current Community Calendar by the 10th of the previous month by emailing editor@valleycurrent.com.

DECEMBER 2019 • 13

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BOUTIQUE

CAFE

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Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This guide has been made with our community in mind. Instead of collecting specific items as we have in the past, this year we have presented you some offerings of each business in hopes that you will utilize these exceptional small businesses to choose one of a kind options this holiday season and all year long.

These establishments will guide you to“Eat, Shop and Be Merry”with this shop local holiday guide.

Ben Wick, Publisher

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• DECEMBER 2019

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Dr. Ryan Bushman is a Quincy native, and after an undergraduate degree at Eastern Washington University, he earned his dental degree from the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health. Dr. Bushman and his wife chose to plant their roots in the greater Spokane area because of twin loves of family and adventure. The couple’s five kids enjoy being raised close to extended family and to the myriad of outdoor opportunities in the Inland Northwest. They enjoy outdoor activities such as snow skiing, being out on the boat, or just adventuring in general, especially when spending time together. While Dr. Bushman isn’t working, or out adventuring, he is proud to serve in the Army National Guard, Dental Corp. Dr. Bushman is happy to offer his talents to fellow members of the armed forces as he serves in his many capacities as dentist, as well as anyone else who is seeking dental services.

509-924-0381 919 N Pines Rd. Spokane Valley, WA 99206

www.spokanefamilydental.com info@spokanefamilydental.com

We make it easy to smile

Call us today so we can show you!

DECEMBER 2019 • 15

The Current

Max at Mirabeau Restaurant and Lounge 1100 N Sullivan, Spokane Valley Spokane Valley’s finest dining experience! Great for breakfast, a business lunch, or a fantastic dinner.

Ferraro’s 11204 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley Family owned and operated Italian restaurant.

Very family friendly.

Fares to Share

Craft and Gather 14403 S Dishman Mica, Spokane Valley The clubhouse of the old Painted Hills Golf course brings you approachable food that is a step beyond your expectations.

We have gone in search of tasty morsels to tantalize your taste buds this holiday season when you need a break from the kitchen. Here are some local establishments ready to serve you something yummy.

LaLozy 13917 E Trent, Spokane Valley If you haven’t yet discovered this unique establishment, get ready! Although they look like just a coffee shop, they also serve fresh, made from scratch, Asian food that you will sure enjoy and be coming back for more. Since discovering this place last year it has become a staple for us. All of their dishes are made to order, using their signature sauces that are made from scratch, using NO MSG. And the couple that owns the establishment is so nice every time.

Fujiama Japanese Steak House 21801 E Country Vista Dr., Liberty Lake Authentic Japanese hibachi style dining. Not only is the food delicious, but the experience is worth checking off your list. Can accommodate large groups.

Longhorn Barbecue 2315 N Argonne, Spokane Valley A longtime family favorite in Spokane Valley. Their sandwiches (beef, turkey, ham, or pork) can be eaten in the restaurant or picked up and taken back to your home to enjoy. Don’t forget their juicy steaks and yummy ribs too!

Conley’s 12622 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley Offering American fares with an Irish twist. Whether you visit them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner you are sure to leave with a full, happy stomach. During holiday seasons they usually have specials, so go try something new!

Barlows 1428 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake Go to enjoy traditional American fare.

Hallett’s Market and Café 14109 E Sprague Ave. Spokane Valley A longtime Valley favorite for shopping and eating. You can dine in or grab your meal to go.

Don’t forget to pick up some goodies for those on your holiday list while you are there!

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• DECEMBER 2019

The Current True Legends 1803 N Harvard Rd. Liberty Lake When they say they are more than just a sports bar, you better believe it because the food here is incredible. Burgers, pasta, soup - you will be pleased with any choice.

CALL TODAY TO BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY DONT FORGET, TRUE LEGENDS GIFT CARDS MAKE GREAT STOCKING STUFFERS!

LIBERTY LAKE AND I-90 AT THE ROUNDABOUT 509-892-3077 | www.TrueLegendsGrill.com

Mongolian BBQ 15416 E Sprague, Spokane Valley Family owned and operated, roomy establishment. Go in, choose all your own fruit, vegetables, meats, noodles, and sauces.

Watch them cook it up and then enjoy!

Palenques 1102 N Liberty Lake Rd, Libery Lake Palenque Mexican Restaurants est in 1993 owned and operated by Jose “Chuy” and Gena “Mama G” Ceresero.

Our Mexican Fare recipes are based out of Jalisco Mexico

Ambrosia 9211 E Montgomery, Spokane Valley Simply put, the Ambrosia Bistro is delicious.

DECEMBER 2019 • 17

The Current

Shogun 20 N Raymond Rd, Spokane Valley Now at a new location, Shogun is a family owned restaurant which has served the community since 1991. Here you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine with a professionally trained Hibachi Chef.

Caruso’s 2314 N Argonne Road., Spokane Valley Where fresh is a way of life. Bread and pizza dough made, from scratch, daily in our kitchen. Fresh, crisp vegetables. Highest quality meat and cheese that we can buy. Stop by and taste the difference fresh makes.

Ding How 1332 N Liberty Lake Rd., Liberty Lake Sushi is all made fresh in front of you by a Japanese trained sushi chef.

Marandos Bar and Restaurant 11420 E Sprague, Spokane Valley If you are looking for new foods to try and absolutely love new gastronomic discoveries, Marandos is the ideal spot for your upcoming food journey.

Mangrove Cafe 18 N Bowdish, Spokane Valley Featuring freshly-made baked goods and Thai lunch and dinner specials in this charming remodeled home. There are extensive gardens to enjoy when weather permits. Call to reserve your seat 9262519.

Cottage Cafe 6902 E Appleway, Spokane Valley Established in April of 2008. The Cottage has been serving home-made breakfast and lunch at reasonable prices, and service like no other diner in Spokane. Unfortunately we have limited space, and do not accept reservations.

Crimson Hearth 11003 E Sprague, Spokane Valley A Eurpoean inspired restaurant specializing in open hearth cooking. Many of the recipes are made-from-scratch and have been passed down generations.

Jenny’s Cafe 9425 E Sprague, Spokane Valley American style food ranging from breakfast items to sandwiches and desserts. Just down right good food. Vegetarian and gluten free options available.

Rancho Viejo 14201 E Sprague, Spokane Valley Enjoy a bit of Mexican? Try this family friendly locally owned establishment. Great for large groups.

Friendly service with yummy choices. Don’t worry they will let you take home the left overs.

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• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

Eat, Shop & Be Merry this Holiday Season at

Halletts Market & Café, Inc 14109 E. Sprague #2, Spokane Valley, WA 99216 509-926-4076 www.halletts.com

facebook.com/hallettsmarket for specials BE MERRY: We serve & sell Wine & Beer

“We have the largest selection of local and NW products in the Valley and we can ship directly to anyone on your list! Come in and let us show you what we have to offer.”

Brought to you by LCM

SHOP: Tasteful Holiday Gifts for Everyone on your list; Family, Friends, Employees, Business Associates - we specialize in corporate gifts

Holiday Gift Baskets - premade or custom make your own Holiday Gift Boxes - ready for shipping & we will do the shipping for you!

EAT: Home of our famous Mac &

Cheese, Bacon grilled sandwich - tell us you saw this ad & receive a $1.00 off

DECEMBER 2019 • 19

The Current

Shop Local Gift Guide

When you go out shopping this holiday season check out these local businesses and support members of our community while finding unique, eclectic, personal or elegant gifts for anyone on your shopping list.

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1.Adorkable Flowers and Gifts 922-6300, 1326 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake Purchase custom or prearranged flowers, candy bouquets, potted plants, collectibles, local artist work, and more.

2.Uncle’s Books and Games 891-7620, Located within the Spokane Valley Mall Locally owned shop featuring board games, puzzles, books and more.

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3. The Bike HUB 443-4005, 12505 E Sprague Ave. #101, Spokane Valley A friendly, full-service bicycle shop in the heart of Spokane Valley. Go in and let the friendly staff help you, or browse their catalog online. Either way you are sure to find cool gadgets or just the right bike for you.

4. Charm 21950 E Country Vista Drive, Suite 500, Liberty Lake Unfortunately this quaint neighborhood shop will be closing Dec. 20. But while they are still there go in and enjoy 25% off.

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5. The Bohemian

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309-3236, 16814 Spokane Valley

E

Sprague Ave,

A collection of unique refurbished and handcrafted items ranging from decor and furniture to clothing and skin care. Roam through and find some treasures.

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6. Coin Corner 928-0860, 9215 E Trent, Spokane Valley

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For over 35 years and through three generations, the Coin Corner has been the go to location for investment coins.

7. Hallett’s Marketplace and Cafe 926-4076, 14109 E Sprague Ave., #2, Spokane Valley

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The marketplace section of this unique business offers a generous makeup of soup mixes, jams, candles, beverages, dips and the largest variety of huckleberry items, all made in the Pacific Northwest.

8. Irv’s Rock and Gifts 924-5464, 11907 E Trent Ave., Spokane Valley

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For over 50 years Irv, and now his daughter Liz, have been educating the community on the intricacies of jewelry, rocks, stones and gems.

9. Pawpular Companions 927-8890, 21801 E Country Vista Dr. #111, Liberty Lake The owners, Carl and Mara, and their staff are friendly and knowledgeable and take the time to help you make choices that are best for you and your furry family.

10. Silver Bow Fly Shop

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924-9998, 13210 Spokane Valley

E

Indiana Ave.,

With a goal of “making fish nervous,” this business focuses on carrying gear that is tried and true for all those who wish to try the art of fly fishing.

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• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

11. Greenacres Vendor Mall 309-3236, 16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley

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Now in a new location with more room and more treasures for you to find. An eclectic collection of vintage and one of a kind finds that will last for years.

12. Appleway Florist and Gifts 924-5050, 11006 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley This longtime valley business has a large selection of candles, plush, balloons and gift items to choose from along with their beautiful floral arrangements.

13. Bruttles 228-9509, 12609 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley Original soft peanut brittle, salt water taffy, caramels, butter toffee and chocolate bark. Holiday themed gifts ready for quick pick up.

14. Brickhouse Coffee Bar

Massage

&

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891-1999, 14222 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley Whether you are coming in alone, with your sweetheart or with a group of friends, we have the spa package to fit your needs.

Give us a call to schedule your perfect BrickHouse spa day today!

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15. Lorraine Fine Jewelry 309-3236, 16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Just open!

Your new neighborhood jewelry store with unique custom pieces and some standard favorites. Join them on Saturdays for champagne while you shop now through Christmas!

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16. Valley Candles Found at Hallett’s Marketplace and Simply Northwest - You can also purchase on Amazon A hobby that turned in to a love and now a thriving business. These candles are crafted with US Soy grown wax that is non-GMM and scented with oils that do not have any harmful chemicals.

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17. The Trellis Marketplace 928-6158, 4102 S Bowdish, Spokane Valley A veritable smörgåsbord of gift options awaits you at this destination gift boutique. They have items to inspire, amuse, comfort and charm all.

18. White Elephant 924-3006, 12614 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley Our area’s most iconic discount toy and sporting goods store. You are sure to find the best prices on quality products, often not carried anywhere else in town.

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DECEMBER 2019 • 21

The Current

19. Big Bear Chocolates 891-2662, Located near the food court in the Spokane Valley Mall

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Here you can find delicacies ranging from fudge and chocolates to caramel apples and ice cream.

20. 509 MetalWorks facebook.com/509metalworks We specialize in the following services: business signs, small fabrication jobs, customized metal art, home and lawn decor, automotive parts, CNC plasma parts. Contact us to get started on your order!

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21. Simply Northwest 927-8206, 11806 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley

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What originally started as a homebased gift basket service is now a gift boutique with full-service website with local delivery. They offer the ability to choose, or have them create, unique gifts for any family member or friend this holiday season and all year round.

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22. Tracy Jewelers

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Dainty casual jewelry handcrafted in Liberty Lake, WA

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893-2929, 106 N Evergreen, Spokane Valley Although their slogan may be “where Spokane gets engaged,” engagement rings are far from the only items carried here. They stock a broad selection of diamond and colored gemstone jewelry along with offering jewelry repair, custom design, restoration and appraisal services.

23. Fleet Feet 309-2174, 13910 Spokane Valley

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Home (/) / Collections (/collections) / Necklaces (/collections/necklaces) / Modern Mom Necklace Hammered Name Plate Charms {Silver, Gold, or Rose Gold}

Modern Mom Necklace Hammered Name Plate Charms {Silver, Gold, or Rose Gold} $37.00

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Fleet Feet Sports Spokane is dedicated to supporting Spokane’s running and fitness enthusiast communities by providing quality training programs, educational opportunities and the right footwear and apparel to meet your needs.

24. Wildflowers Vintage Goods 309-3345, 3201 N Argonne, Millwood Carries curated vintage, salvaged and new home decor and seasonal items.

25. Cami Lee Designs 862-4731, 21950 E Country Vista Drive, Suite 500, Liberty Lake Whether you want quirky, simple, elegant or charming this jewelry line has all of them covered in a variety of metals and gemstones. Can be personalized on site until Dec 20, as the retail location is closing.

26. Refresh 241-3147, 3319 N Argonne Rd, Millwood

Hammered plates (1/4" width) are personalized with the names of your choice and lay on beaded chain.

Bars measure ~1" depending on name length.

Available in sterling silver, gold filled, or rose gold filled.

16 or 18"L

Refresh is more than just your average home décor store. We offer a unique mix of carefully curated items for your home and life as well as Fusion Mineral Paint for all you DIYers.

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• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

Santa is Coming to and Town... here is where you can find him It’s that time of year again when Kris Kringle takes a shuttle sleigh to sites across the great Spokane Valley. So keep an ear out for the jingle bells!

SPOKANE VALLEY MALL 14700 E Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley Call: 926-3700 Come to the lower JC Penney court to see Santa or make reservations ahead of time to save some time.

Plus, save 30 percent on your photos by pre-ordering a package online. Visit before Dec. 9 to save an extra $5. Want to avoid the line? reserve your place today with a FastPass!

Reservations and photo purchases are not required to visit Santa.

Now until Dec. 13 Regular Hours Monday – Saturday: 12 PM – 8 PM Break: 3 PM - 4 PM Sunday: 12 PM – 6 PM Break: 2 PM - 3 PM Additional Hours 12/14 – 12/21: Reg Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM Break: 12 PM - 12:45 PM, 3:45 PM - 4:30 PM 12/22: 9 AM – 8 PM Break: 12 PM - 12:45 PM, 3:45 PM - 4:30 PM 12/23: 9 AM - 9 PM Break: 12 PM - 12:45 PM, 3:45 PM - 4:30 PM Christmas Eve 12/14: 9 AM – 6 PM Break: 1 PM – 2 PM BREAKFAST WITH SANTA CenterPlace Regional Event Center - 2426 N Discovery Place, Spokane Valley Call: 688-0300 Saturday, Dec. 7: 8 am, 9 am, 10 am $5 per person Registration Information: Registration to this event is required. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Call 509-720-5200 or visit spokanevalley.org/ santabreakfast This year there will be no photographs with Santa provided by the Spokane Valley Parks and Recreation staff. Please take your own photos if you like.

Sponsored by Rotary Club of Spokane Valley and the City of Spokane Valley SPOKANE VALLEY FIRE STATION #5 15510 E Marietta Ave., Spokane Valley Call: 892-4155 Spokane Valley Fire Department invites the community to join us Dec. 7 from 10 am - 2 pm for a free family fun with Santa! Meet your firefighters and paramedics, check out both fire engines housed at Station 5 and take pictures with Santa! Tour the

largest fire station in our Department and try on firefighter gear. Enjoy holiday treats and cool giveaways.

CABELA’S 101 N Cabela Ave., Post Falls Call: 208-777-6300 Get a Bass Pass!

A Bass Pass is required and provides a time slot to see Santa, allowing you to explore Santa’s Wonderland® or shop the store while waiting in a virtual line. Bass Passes are limited and go quickly each day, now through Dec. 24.

Nov. 28: 10 am - 5 pm Nov. 29: 1 pm - 8 pm Nov. 30: 10 am - 8 pm Dec. 1: 10 am - 5 pm Dec. 2: 3 pm - 8 pm Dec. 8: 10 am - 5 pm Dec. 9: 10 am - 8 pm Dec. 14: 10 am - 8 pm Dec. 15: 10 am - 5 pm Dec. 16: 10 am - 8 pm Dec. 21: 10 am - 8 pm Dec. 22: 10 am - 5 pm Dec. 23: 10 am - 8 pm Dec. 24: 10 am - 5 pm LONE WOLF HARLEY-DAVIDSON 19011 E Cataldo Ave., Spokane Valley Call: 927-3306 Nov. 29 and Nov. 30, 9 am - 6 pm. Come on down to get your picture with our Harley Santa! Always a fun event. Pictures include complementary picture frame while supplies last. Also, $5 donations or a toy for Toys for Tots are appreciated!

APPLEWAY FLORIST AND GREENHOUSE 11006 E Sprague, Spokane Valley Call: 924-5050 Appleway Florist and Greenhouse is ready for Christmas and the winter holiday season with poinsettias, festive centerpieces, creative fresh and artificial bouquets, plush animals, plants, balloons and much more. Santa will be in Dec. 7th and Dec 14th from 10 am - 4 pm. Photos available for purchase or bring your own camera and use the fabulous backdrop! Pet friendly. Call for more details.

SANTA’S BREAKFAST HOSTED BY THE NEWMAN LAKE FIRE AUXILIARY Tri-Community Grange 25025 E Heather Ln Dec. 1, 8 am – 12 pm Newman Lake families only please.

Come have pancakes with all the fixin’s (just make a cash contribution). Bring your own camera to take photos with Santa. And the Kids Gift Shop will be stocked for kids to buy presents for their family and friends. Proceed go to sustain the event for future years.

SATURDAY WITH SANTA AT THE LIBRARY 23123 E Mission Ave, Liberty Lake (509) 232-2510 Dec 14, 10:30 am - 1:00 pm Come visit with Santa at our annual event! Crafts and activities while you wait for your turn to see Santa. Take your own photos or purchase them. Pre-registration required. Go to Liberty Lake Municipal Library Facebook and click on the event to sign up.

SANTA COMING BACK TO AVISTA STADIUM 602 N Havana St., Spokane Valley Dec. 3 and Dec. 5, 5 pm - 7 pm

MAX AT MIRABEAU 1100 N Sullivan Road, Spokane Valley Call: 922-6252 Dec. 14 and Dec. 15, 8am - 1 pm. Annual Free Breakfast with Santa for kids up to 12 years old.

Reservations are recommended. Bring a non perishable food item or donation benefiting the Salvation Army Food Bank. Call for more details.

Mark your calendars because Cocoa with the Claus’s is only a few weeks away. ‘Tis the season and Santa Claus is making his way back to Avista Stadium to catch up with the nice list!

Get your picture taken with Ole Saint Nick, Mrs. Claus, and OTTO. Photos with Santa are free.

This holiday event is presented by Wake Up Call Coffee.

TRUTINA AT RIVER DISTRICT PHOTOS WITH SANTA 22495 E Clairmont Ln., Liberty Lake Dec. 6, 3 pm - 6 pm Resident hosted event Grandkids, families, pets, and adults that never outgrew Santa are all welcome. A donation of $10 per family is requested. All proceeds go to the Otis Orchards Elementary School free and reduced lunch program.

DECEMBER 2019 • 23

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“Honoring local communities and encouraging citizen involvement” 509.242.7752 | PO Box 363 | Liberty Lake, WA 99019 | www.libertylakesplash.com

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The Current

Reach 26,000+ Readers!

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soaring to national and international acclaim.

PERFECTS PLACE SMALL PIZZA TOWN, SMALL BIZ RECIPE 3 4 PA GE NEWMAN NEIGHBORS FOR SAFER N RALLY T E R S E C T I O 6 IN PAGE

BOY BATTLES W ITH CANCER OF SUPPORT ‘AVENGERS’ 12 PAGE

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AR K LAN DMARKS L M AS HOTE A RS 10 YE T INDEPENDEN 2 4 PAGE

FROM

CV BEAR TO MIAMI DOLPHIN 42 PAGE

from Josh. The new owners live in Spokane Valley, are invested here and understand what matters to

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brighter than ever. Readership is growing, advertising is up and the stories keep generating talk.

The Current now has a 26,000 copy Current founder circulation with 16,000 being direct weighs in on formative days of paper mailed to households across the Spokane Valley area in addition to the 10,000 copies being available for pickup at over 250 business locations. About 10,000 copies of The Splash are distributed around the end of each month, 6,000 of those through direct mail to every home and business in the greater Liberty Lake community.

accounts of the human spirit overcoming adversity from U-Hi grad Mitch Carbon’s remarkable triumph over cancer to the feats of Spokane Para Sport athletes

In late 2015, Ben Wick – known by most for his service on the Spokane Valley City Council – stepped up with his wife, Danica, to purchase the Current and Splash

“Close, but that’s an interesting story in itself. You see, our agricultural heritage means many of our community place names and identities were formed around a patchwork of irrigation districts …”

By Josh Johnson

He was the stereotypical inky wretch, grizzled and grumpy.

Blood type: CMYK.

His opinion from decades in the business: Publishing a community newspaper was challenging enough on its own without doing it for Spokane Valley.

“What do you have, like three city or town councils in the greater Valley?” he asked me.

“Four, because we want to cover Rockford, and of course there are thousands of unincorporated residents governed by Spokane County, so keeping tabs on the commission will be important, too.”

“Four school districts, six high schools to report on.”

“Shoot, you have like a billion water districts.”

“Yeah, yeah,” he interrupted.

“The bottom line is that community newspapers thrive because of a shared sense of community. With such a mishmash of overlapping jurisdictions and loyalties, that’s a challenge in Spokane Valley.”

And it was. And it is. But to this day, I remain convinced that even if I’m a Central Valley Bear and current owner and publisher Ben Wick is an East Valley Knight, our common interests far outweigh a couple miles of geography.

I led a team made up of greater Valley folks like myself to launch The Current, the name itself was holds us together, like the Spokane River winding its way through our neighborhoods.

We wanted to build a community newspaper for everyone in the greater Spokane Valley, whether their kids attended East Farms or Seth Woodard, whether they rose

two papers could not have landed in better hands.

As the Current embarks on its

Thank you for the support, greater Spokane Valley. This is your paper. coverage.

Rock Creek in the annual regatta.

As for dealing with all the jurisdictional dividing lines, we employed twin strategies. One, we would hit the high points. In the early years, we did a “3 Up, 3 Down” feature to give “at a glance” news from around the community and we always made a point to dig deeper into the most important jurisdictional items. But mostly, we relied on strategy two: Write about the issues we have in common, because there are an awful lot of them.

I wrote the cover story for the

homeless students in the greater Valley. This is an issue we should continue to address as a community, because suburban homelessness is a growing problem nationally, and fought with the same tools we would deploy downtown.

By issue 12 (January 2013), we shared what we called our “One Valley Initiative.” These were four “topic threads” – Growing Business, Poverty in the Valley, Healthy Valley and Innovative Education – we used to help us focus and plan our

Of course, we also had so much fun along the way. There was our annual food bracket placing Valley eats in a single elimination competition. The idea here was to advance great Valley menu options through a bracket while sitting on couches watching Tournament. Not a bad gig.

Indeed, owning and publishing

issues remains a highlight of my life, but I am certain I couldn’t say that save for one qualifying factor: We covered the greater Spokane Valley, my home and yours.

And it’s the home of current owners Ben and Danica Wick, who beautifully share the heritage of this now 5-year-old publication: a commitment and love for the Valley.

The Wicks share this, I share this and I am going to take an educated guess that you are reading this right now because you do, too.

And that, Mr. Grizzled Newspaper Publisher, is why this works.

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24

• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

December 3 - December 15

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Why not take something off your list this year to give you some extra time to share with friends and family? Here are some excellent desserts that you can pick -up or order last minute to finish off your holiday table with the same tradition and flair, but without all the time and clean-up. We hope you will try out these tasty treats this holiday season.

Conley’s 12622 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley (509) 924-5411

Rocket Bakery 3315 N Argonne Rd., Milwood (509) 462-2345 International Coffee and bakery 18209 E Appleway, Spokane Valley (509) 321-7479

Desserts by Sara 10502 E Montgomery Dr., Ste 3, Spokane Valley (509) 922-6039 Just American Desserts 213 S University Rd., Spokane Valley (509) 927-2253

Cash & Carry 211 S McKinnon, Spokane Valley (509) 535-7710 Just Chillin’ 1322 N Liberty Lake Rd., Liberty Lake (509) 413-1615

Blissful Whisk 1612 N Barker, Spokane Valley (509) 242-3189

26

• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

Holiday “Spirits” 11712 E Montgomery Dr. Spokane Valley, Washington We strive to create beers that would make our sister proud; brewed with integrity, character, and pride. In true Lara form, we also intend to lend a hand to the community in which we live.

As such, one percent of all tasting room sales of our flagship beer, Angel IPA, will be donated to local charities. Opening early 2019.

106 N Evergreen, Spokane Valley 227-9463 Enjoy a relaxing night out with that special someone or the girls sipping wine or learning about beer as you enjoy something else tasty.

13030 E Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley 926-0164 At Latah Creek our stylistic aim is to create wines that taste like the grapes from which they came. Our major goal is to produce wines with natural balance and complexity, providing a perfect compliment to food and absolute enjoyment by themselves.

15310 E Marietta Ave, Ste 4, Spokane Valley, 413-3663 All our beer is brewed on site in small batches with all natural ingredients.

Our tap house is a warm, welcoming place that caters to local beer lovers, tabletop gaming, and family fun.

15412 E Sprague, Suite 14, Spokane Valley 723-6105 We are creating a place that serves amazing craft drinks and equally amazing food; where we can hang out with friends and bring the whole family.

This will be a place where we can play games and enjoy our community, where our conversations won’t have to compete with TVs or loud music. We will create a haven to wave our geek flag, have events that are fun, creative, and nerdy. A place where, at the table nearest the fireplace hearth, you may find mugs of stouts being savored over conversations of ancient literature and at the next table over you’ll find half finished pizza, a couple of ESBs, a cider, and a heated game of Magic the Gathering. We are creating a pub between worlds.

10421 E Sprague Ave. Spokane Valley 413-2488 Hopped Up in Eastern Washington is a craft local brewery that includes a tasting room with lots of taps and plenty of seating. We are open 4 days a week from Wednesday thru Saturday, and regular host private events!

Owner and Brewer, Steve Ewan, is a life-long Hot Rod enthusiast.

“Hopped Up” is reference to his love for all things hops, all things beer, and all things hopped-up cars. Even the building is part of the story—Hopped Up Brewing is located in a former International House of Pancakes (IHOP). It’s all Hopped Up!!!

Steve brews several different beers: Quality Cream Ale, High Performance Porter, Fender Bender Brown, Overload Imperial Amber, and Mad Hopper IPA to name a few.

4705 N Fruit Hill Rd , Spokane 927.9463 The Inland Northwest’s premier winery, est. 1982. Wines by the glass, flight or bottle, beer from Square Wheel Brewing, and assorted food selections available. Come enjoy it all from our 4 acres of gorgeous gardens! (ages 21+ only)

23110 E Knox Ave., Liberty Lake 255.9205 Boutique winery sharing its award winning bold red varietals and blends.

1415 N Argonne Rd., Spokane Valley 242-3225 We make great beer for active people.

Brewed in the owners backyard. Join us for a pint or two in our taproom, and make yourself at home.

11616 E Montgomery Drive #26, Spokane Valley 241-3697 Twelve String Brewing Co. is Spokane Valley’s first and oldest craft brewery. With over 35 years of brewing experience you can be assured of the finest high quality beer our area has to offer. We strive for excellence and are always looking for ways to make our products even better. Please stop on in our cozy and very friendly taproom and taste some delicious LOCAL CRAFT BEER. You will be glad you did!

DECEMBER 2019 • 27

The Current

EATS AND SWEETS

4410 S Bowdish Rd., Spokane Valley 919-4798 Where beer meets Barbeque! TT's Old Iron Brewery & BBQ is now open in the Spokane Valley at 4110 S. Bowdish with Beer and BBQ all in one great family friendly taproom.

2204 N Madson Rd, Liberty Lake 279-2159 Trailbreaker Cider has always been about the apple. Here in the Pacific Northwest we grow a lot of them, and we love to make ciders that taste just like the fruit we put into them.

g Now Takin

Christmas s Pre Order 1322 N Liberty Lake Rd

509-413-1615

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328 N Sullivan Rd, Suite 8, Spokane Valley 598 8297 Steady Flow Growler House and Tasting Room offers craft beverages for all beverage enthusiasts. We offer craft beer, ciders, kombucha, wine and cold brew coffee for growler fills. If one of our free samples sparks curiosity in your palate, we have pints and sample trays for your enjoyment!

We now offer a kitchen menu-swing by today to grab a pint and dinner.

Cheers!

9013 E Fredrick, Millwood 368-9538 Millwood Brewing Company's WHAT is to become a recognized regional craft brewery that provides an outstanding variety of award winning craft beers developed from styles and flavors that compliment the Pacific NW. Service is our WHY and our highest cause. We are inspired to serve and entertain our fellow human beings. To serve our community, to serve our employees and to serve our customers is our #1 priority.

Please be safe this holiday season and drink responsibly

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Merry Christmas!

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28

• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

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509-924-0381

919 N Pines Rd. Spokane Valley, WA 99206

The Current

LIBRARY

DECEMBER 2019 • 29

Project Memory helps you turn old photos, home movies into digital gifts

By Dana Mannino, Librarian Spokane County Library District

Is your family history collecting dust in a closet? Have a box of slides from Grandpa’s 1978 trip to Europe?

How about those little 8mm film reels in their tiny cardboard boxes?

If you have photos, film reels, or slides stashed away, now is the perfect time to pull them out. With the holidays coming up, you could make a digital slide show and other digital gifts that the whole family could enjoy. And the Library District can help with that!

We have launched Project Memory, a new service available at Spokane Valley Library.

This project includes the tools and equipment to transfer your home photos and videos to more modern formats. It also includes librarians and library staff who know how to use the equipment and can show you how.

You can make an appointment online to learn how to work on your

own memory project with our Booka-Librarian service at www.scld.org/ book-a-librarian.

During your appointment, library staff show you how to use the library’s equipment to convert your photos, videos, film, and even sound recordings to digital files on the computer. Once you feel comfortable with the machines, you can schedule additional time to use the equipment in the library independently. Come in as often as you need to until your project is done.

We can help you convert the following photo formats into digital: printed photos, 35mm slides, 35mm film, and Medium format film (120).

For home movies and videos, our equipment can convert 8mm and Super 8, Hi8 (all generations), and VHS (conversion to DVD only). For sound recordings, we can convert to following to digital audio: cassette tapes, CDs, and records (LPs, etc.).

Project Memory is intended to help you transfer your personal recordings and photos to new

formats for personal use. Replicating copyrighted materials, such as popular CDs or commercially made VHS tapes, is a violation of federal copyright law, in most cases. Librarians will not help you reproduce anything that appears to be commercially produced media.

Not sure what format your memories are in? Bring a sample of your media to the library, and we will do our best to identify it together.

Sadly, there’s a limit to everything.

We currently cannot help you transfer the 16mm video film or MiniDV video cassettes. But stay tuned! We hope to purchase equipment that can handle these formats in the future.

If you have boxes full of photos, reels of film, or VHS tapes sitting in a closet or storage, then consider getting started with Project Memory today!

Just think, when you are done with your own memory project at the library, you’ll have so much to share with family, friends, and loved ones, right to their devices!

Call for keepsakes, memories of Mount St. Helens eruption for 40th anniversary exhibit

By Erin Dodge

Current Guest Contributor

The Mount St. Helens eruption on May 18, 1980, resulted in the deaths of 57 people and the destruction of over 212 square miles of land and ecosystems surrounding the stratovolcano in Skamania County.

In eastern Washington and the Spokane area, residents experienced the ash clouds and particulates in the air, the ash covering the ground, and cars and other vehicles coughing to a stop because their engines were gummed up with ash.

For the 40th anniversary of the eruption, Spokane County Library District is displaying items and sharing stories related to the eruption of Mount St. Helens. And they need your help.

Your Mount St. Helens memorabilia, pictures, and stories could be included in in the Library District’s exhibit occurring throughout the month of May 2020.

Where were you when the ash from the Mount St. Helens eruption drifted through the sky and covered the hills, trees, buildings, and streets throughout Spokane County?

Stacey Goddard, public services manager for Spokane County Library District, was 12 at the time and recalls that Sunday afternoon clearly.

Her family was watching TV that afternoon when the sky suddenly went dark.

She thought a storm was rolling in, but an emergency news broadcast

broke in and informed the public of the eruption and the dangers of going outside and breathing the ash.

Schools were closed for the week.

Stacey recalls walking to the grocery store with her family, wearing one of the safety face masks that her dad had for home improvement projects.

“The streets were eerily quiet— surreal. No one was driving, and very few people were outside,” Goddard recalls.

What story could you share about your experience of the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens?

The Library District would like to include your mementos and memories in the May 2020 exhibit.

They are accepting items and stories now through March 15, 2020.

To be included, you can bring your items to one of the District libraries (www.scld.org/locations) with your name, contact information, and a description and the personal significance of the items.

Celebrate winter with festive crafts & stories for all ages Frosted Holiday Trees OTIS ORCHARDS Wednesday, Dec 4, 3:30–5:30pm SPOKANE VALLEY Tuesday, Dec 17, 4–5pm

Millwood Tree Lighting & Gingerbread Build MILLWOOD MASONIC CENTER (ARGONNE), 3219 N ARGONNE RD Friday, Dec 6, 6:30–8:30pm

Storytime at The BookEnd THE BOOKEND Saturday, Dec 14, 10:30–11am All library programs are open to the public and available at no charge.

www.scld.org

Brought to you by

The Current

DECEMBER 2019 • 31 Open Gym For All Ages - Fridays 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Indoor Playground 12:00-1:00 during the regular school year

Instructional Classes offered

morning, afternoon, evening and weekends for all goals & abilities toddler through adult

2515 N. Locust Road Spokane Valley 99206

509-315-5433

Bitty Bee Mondays & Wednesdays weekly from 9:30am – 12:30pm!

Movie Night- evening of fun, friends, gymnastics, popcorn and movies!

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• DECEMBER 2019

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About and for Valley seniors

New WWI Memorial installed at historic Argonne Bridge

By Nina Culver

Current Contributor

Hundreds of people turned out on Veterans Day to dedicate a new World War I memorial on the northeast corner of Argonne Road and Empire Avenue in Millwood.

The ceremony marked exactly 100 years since Armistice Day. Most of the crowd raised their hands when master of ceremonies Mark Peterson from KXLY asked who in attendance was a veteran.

Several uniformed Marines were in attendance to present the flag to open the ceremony and close the ceremony with a performance of Taps and a gun salute.

The mayor of Millwood, Kevin Freeman, was in attendance in

addition to representatives from the local and state chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR).

A 1917 Army jeep was on display during the event.

One side of the memorial contains the name, rank and branch of service of over 200 men from Spokane County who died in World War I. Their names were originally inscribed on bronze plaques that were put on the second version of the Argonne Bridge, a concrete span, that was completed in 1920. “Those plaques were lost at some point, likely after the bridge was redone in 1970,” said Rae Anna Victor, a member of the Jonas Babcock Chapter of the DAR.

The bridge and road were named after the World War I Battle of Argonne Forest, a battle that raged for nearly two months before ending on Armistice Day on November 11, 1918. The battle was part of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, which stretched along the entire Western Front.

Victor was discussing the missing plaques one day with local historian Chuck King and they talked about replicating them in time for the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day. “When we first started talking about it, it was just going to be a plaque on a bridge,” she said.

Victor said she was upset that the plaques had vanished and the men who died were no longer being honored. “It just made me so sad,” she said.

Soon the two were discussing a small memorial. “Originally it was

Photos by Nina Culver The WWI Argonnne Bridge memorial was installed Nov. 11, 100 years after the battle of Argonne Forest.

going to be a smaller one,” she said.

“Things kept growing and growing and growing.”

The memorial dedicated on Veterans Day stands 12 feet high and it is topped by an eagle painted bronze. “The light post the eagle sits on, which came from the original Monroe Street Bridge, is something that Chuck had in his collection of historical artifacts,” Victor said.

“The memorial features one of the 1920 bronze Argonne Bridge dedication plaques that had also gone missing but was found in the basement of the Spokane County Engineering Department,” Victor said. The plaque was cleaned before its installation on the new memorial.

“It is absolutely beautiful,” Victor said. “It looks brand new.”

The back side of the memorial includes the history of the Battle of the Argonne Forest and well as quotes from local men who survived the battle. The people and businesses who help fund the memorial are also listed.

The DAR and the local SAR chapters took the lead in raising money for the memorial and arranging for its installation. More than 40 people and businesses donated either money, materials or time to the project.

“There is not one penny of government money,” Victor said.

“People have just been so giving.”

Some of the money for the memorial came from a Home Depot Foundation grant that paid for pavers that were laid around the base of the memorial. Victor said more than a dozen Home Depot employees donated a day of their time to install the pavers.

Victor said, “it seems fitting that the memorial now sits outside the Inland Empire Paper Mill and the mill is the one who paid for and donated the original bronze plaques that listed the soldiers who died.”

The city of Millwood has agreed to maintain the memorial and during the dedication ceremony Victor promised that the area around the memorial will include planters full of poppies in the spring.

DECEMBER 2019 • 33

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• DECEMBER 2019

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Local Sea Hawkers support more than the team

By Mike Vlahovich Current Contributor

An idea that germinated some 30 years ago morphed into something greater than itself.

Back then, a group of Spokane Valley sports fans formed a booster club that gathered to root on the Seattle Seahawks during the professional football team’s formative years. A revised version formed in the early 2000s in north Spokane. Later, members broke away to form a Valley chapter that has taken the club to another level.

These local outlets are connected to the NFL team’s official booster club, the Sea Hawkers.

“So what is a Sea Hawker, anyway?” the statewide-and-thensome organization’s website blares.

Its answer: “The most passionate, hardcore, devoted, cheer-crazy, raisin’ the roof, no life during football

season havin’ fans on earth.”

The Spokane Valley club is actually right in the Seahawks’ backyard compared to some of the other Sea Hawkers chapters.

“Not only are there chapters throughout the state, but in other states and even one in London,” said Pat McDonald, current president of the Spokane Valley Sea Hawkers.

“Two years ago, I met members from the England fan club.”

As expected, fan club members, usually 30 strong, gather on game days at The Black Diamond, 9614 E. Sprague Ave., to cheer on their team and enjoy each other’s company.

But the Sea Hawkers are more than just about rabid fans gathering to watch games together, jump around and give each other high fives when Seattle scores, as McDonald put it.

The clubs are about friendships

and philanthropy as well. In 2018 alone, all the chapters combined total some 8,500 members who donated their time and raised nearly $273,000 from fundraisers and other events for charities, according to the Sea Hawkers website.

The Valley chapter on average raises some $3,000 in a variety of ways, including providing coffee at a rest stop on the way to Pullman.

They are involved with Tom’s Turkey Drive, sorted food for Second Harvest, packed lunches for needy children and cook once a month at Truth Ministries.

“There’re a lot of things we do than just watch football games and give money away,” McDonald said.

“What I take away from this, my highlight is when we give out the checks.”

McDonald got involved with the group through his sister-in-law when the Valley broke away from

the northside chapter. It is now roughly 100 members strong.

The main thing is each year when up to 50 members climb on a bus and travel to a game in Seattle as reward for their philanthropy. This year’s trip to Seattle vs. Tampa Bay was sold out. If all the tickets aren’t used, they give the remainder to needy kids in the Seattle area.

“What I see (about the Sea Hawkers) is having fun and watching football games with friends,” McDonald said. “What I take away is when we give out the checks and giving them recognition at our meetings.”

That’s as good a reason as any to watch the games together, jump around and give each other high fives when the Seattle Seahawks score.

For more on the club or to get involved, visit spokanevalleyseahawkers.com.

Find us on Facebook!

Find us on Facebook! www.valleycurrent.com

Submitted photo The Spokane Valley Sea Hawkers gather around a customized Volkswagen and celebrate their love of the club outside The Black Diamond during a game watch party.

DECEMBER 2019 • 35

The Current

Valley marching band shows get noticed

By Nina Culver

Current Contributor

It was a good season for marching bands in Spokane Valley this fall, with bands from Central Valley High School and West Valley High School both taking first place in their divisions at the recent Pacific Northwest Band Championships at Joe Albi stadium.

The West Valley band based their performance on a Cirque du Soleil performance called “La Nouba,” said band director Jim Loucks. The band performed three songs from the show; “Distorted,” “Reve Rouge” and “Urban.”

“It’s very complex music,” Loucks said. “I place major emphasis on the music because that’s such a major part of our score.”

Part of the performance included the band coming from behind a large “La Nouba” banner through a cloud of smoke. “We kind of staged it like a Vegas show,” he said. “It was a very cool effect.”

Loucks said many of his marching band members were newcomers this year. “We had a really young band,” he said. “This freshman class stepped it up big time.”

Often his 40 students are competing against bands with up to 200 students, Loucks said. With such a small band, any mistake is likely to be noticed by the judges.

During one competition this year the West Valley marching band moved up four spots from the preliminary round to the final round. “This is absolutely unheard of in marching band competition,” Loucks said.

“I’ve never been so proud of a group of kids.”

The band also took third place in their division at the Harvest Festival of Bands in Yakima and second place overall at the Puget Sound Festival of Bands in Everett.

The West Valley marching band has been among the region’s top contenders for years but Loucks said he wasn’t sure what to expect this year with so many new members.

“They did so well this fall, now my expectations are higher than ever,” he said. “We just kind of have this

heart.”

The Central Valley Marching Band had a pirate theme to their performance this season, which was called “X Marks the Spot.”

“We just used every cliché pirate idea,” said band director Eric Parker.

“We had sword fighting, someone walked the plank. It was a lot of fun for the students to bring the theatrical characters to life.”

But the band didn’t use what many might think of as typical pirate music for their performance. They used “The Sailor Song” movement from Lincolnshire Posy along with the song “Prologue” from the movie “Hook” and Movement 2 from Beethoven’s 7th Symphony. “For the end we just used Pirates of the Caribbean,” he said.

Parker said his marching band has taken the top overall spot at the Northwest Band Championships for the last 13 years but were dethroned this year by West Salem High School. “This band came in from out of town and whipped our butts,” he said. “They were phenomenal.”

Central Valley took second place overall in addition to winning their division. They also took first place overall and first in their division in both the Harvest Festival of Bands in Yakima and the Cavalcade of Bands in Pasco. “It was a great season,” he said.

Central Valley senior Jasmyn Persicke has loved her time on the marching band, but she almost didn’t join. “I didn’t originally want to do marching band,” she said. “I didn’t consider myself a band kid.”

As she prepared for her freshman

Contributed photos West Valley marching band performing “La Nouba,” their Cirque du Soleil inspired 2019 show. year Persicke instead planned to play soccer, but she didn’t make the team. Several of her friends were in the marching band and loved it.

They told her that a flute player had recently dropped out. “I basically begged Mr. Parker to let me fill the hole,” she said.

She was given the spot, but there was one problem. She played the clarinet and didn’t know how to play the flute. But she gave it her best shot that year. “I tried so hard,” she said.

“I was able to learn some of it, but not all of it.”

In her sophomore year she was able to go back to playing the clarinet and has been part of the band’s leadership team her junior and senior years. She said she’s grateful that she was allowed to be a part of it.

“It really offered me a kind of family,” she said. “You go through a lot together.”

During the school year there are two three-hour practices after school

Contributed photos Central Valley marching band performing their pirate themed “X marks the spot.”

each week and an eight-hour practice on Saturdays. In the summer there’s a three-week band camp that runs five days a week.

“It’s a lot of time commitment,” she said. “We have to work so hard and it’s only for an eight-minute show.

When we go to the competitions, we definitely feel like it’s worth it.”

She said she also likes how the band members root for each other and want each other to improve.

Parker said he thinks the stability of his staff has helped the band do well every year. “We work really, really hard as a staff to stay together,” he said. “We try to instill in the students that they own everything.

They own their rehearsal time.”

Rehearsals last for hours but the students remain focused the entire time, Parker said. “It’s 176 kids on a football field being quiet, listening for instruction.”

All members of a marching band are equally important, Parker said.

“They’re all varsity all the time,” he said. “They own their success.”

Loucks said he appreciates all the time and effort his students put in to the marching band. “Kids can only fit so many classes into their schedule,” he said. “I just want to thank the kids. This is hard work.”

36

• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

Valley Chamber

HIGHLIGHTS

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CenterPlace Events Center Join us for our holiday-themed Business Connections celebration that highlights the incredible non-profits we have here in the Greater Spokane Valley!

Enjoy a strolling lunch with tasting stations throughout the room while you hear of the inspiring work of our featured non-profit organizations.

Chamber member businesses are encouraged to sponsor a non-profit organization to host for this memorable event. Host sponsorship includes a highlight table for you and a non-profit representative.

Go to our website to see the list of chamber-member non-profits who need a sponsor!

For more information, visit: spokanevalleychamber.org.

INNOVATE.

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SAVE THE DATE December 14 January 24, 2019 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Gem of the Events Valley CenterPlace Awards Center 5:30 - 8:30 P.M. Businesses canHotel Mirabeau Park sponsor a chamber This premiere event member non-profit to features a live auction, host for lunch and an elegant dinner and provide a spotlight table for them share their our yearlytoawards mission. program.

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DECEMBER 2019 • 37

The Current THE LIBERTY LAKE VALLEY GREATER SPOKANE

A VALLEY-WIDE COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

EDITOR/PUBLISHER

Ben Wick

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CO OWNER

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CIRCULATION

Larry Passmore

circulation@libertylakesplash.com CONTRIBUTORS

Linda Ball, Nina Culver, Bill Gothmann, Craig Howard, Mike Vlahovich The Valley Current P.O. Box 363 Liberty Lake, WA 99019 Phone: 242-7752; Fax: 927-2190 www.valleycurrent.com The Current is published monthly by or before the first of each month. It is distributed free of charge to every business and home in the greater Spokane Valley area. Copies are located at drop-off locations in Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake and the surrounding area.

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November Election Recap

With the final ballot count nearing completion this election has seen its ups and downs. While the biggest upsets between election night and the final count was seen in the City of Spokane’s Council President race, the City of Spokane Valley had a miniature version of the same thing. Spokane Valley City Council member Brandi Peetz was trailing her challenger Michelle Rasmussen by 4 votes on election night but came back to being ahead by 424 (as of the date this edition went to print). A quick recap on the current election results: Spokane Valley City Council Brandi Peetz and Arnie Woodard seem to be keeping their seats, and look to being joined by Tim Hattenburg in January. Also under Spokane Valley’s rules, at their first meeting in 2020 (scheduled for Jan 7th) the city council will be selecting which council members will represent them as Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

City of Millwood Mary (Kate) McLachlan Andrew Van Hees both were elected for another term.

City of Liberty Lake Liberty Lake will have a new Mayor in January as current city councilmember Shane Brickner won over current mayor Steve Peterson.

On the City Council: Phil Floyer defeated Dg Garcia for the open seat.

Dan Dunne and Cris Kaminskas were elected for another term and Annie Kurtz defeated Robert (Bob) Moore Central Valley School Board Cynthia (Cindy) McMullen, Debra Long, and Keith Clark were successful in continuing on the school board.

Spokane Valley Fire Department While Patrick Burch and John Guarisco were elected to continue on the board they will be joined by Mike Kester who defeated long time member Ron Schmidt.

West Valley The West Valley School Levy seems to have passed receiving 56% of the people voting yes.

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Adorkable Flowers and Gifts

23

Hennessey Valley Funeral Home 33

Spokane Gymnastics

Amaculate Housekeeping

38

Kathrine Olson, DDS

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9

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27

Barlows 23

Liberty Cross Ministries

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5

Liberty Lake Kiwanis

9

Banner Fuel

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5

3, 12 24

Cornerstone Pentecostal Church 11

Northern Quest

40

Spokane Valley Fire Dept

Tate Law Offices

11 16 16

40

Greenstone 38

Simply Northwest

28

True Legends

Gus Johnson Ford

34

Spokane County Library District 29

Hallett’s Market and Cafe

18

Spokane Family Dental

Service Directory

14, 28

24

Spokane Valley United Methodist 36

Simonds Dental Group

27

24

Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce 36

Tracy Jewelers

Epic Epoxy

14, 31

36

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38

HISTORY

• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

SVHM Memory of the Month

Photo courtesy of the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum The dream of every child is realized by two children of Spokane Valley’s Van Marter family. In 1908, Henry Van Marter bought 25 acres of land and started a farm in Spokane Valley. He is considered one of the community’s first orchard farmers.

Serving the greater Spokane Valley since 1985 Residential and Office Cleaning Licensed and Insured www.amaculate.com

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The Current

EVSD working to fill board vacancies

By Nina Culver

Current Contributor

The East Valley School District has been working to fill two vacant school board seats and received no applications for the vacant seat in District 1, which is located in the far southwestern corner of the district in the area surrounding Trent Elementary.

Board member Mike Novakovich, who was serving in District 5, moved out of the school district in September and had to resign his position, said superintendent Kelly Shea. The district received three applications for his seat, and the board plans to interview all three and make a selection by the Nov. 12 board meeting, Shea said.

The District 1 seat has been held

by Todd Weger since 2014. He also moved, but since he moved out of District 1 but is still within the school district boundaries, he was allowed to keep his seat until the next election. It’s been known for months that Weger would not be able to run for re-election, but no one living in District 1 put their name on the ballot during the candidate filing in May or during a special candidate filing in August.

Someone did try to fill the blank space on the ballot, however. “We did have someone try to submit his name during the special filing, but he didn’t live within the district,” Shea said.

The district asked for applications so someone could be appointed to fill the seat but got no response, Shea said. Weger’s seat will officially be vacant as of Nov. 5.

“We have 90 days from when the seat is vacated to fill it,” Shea said.

Shea said he’s been the superintendent in East Valley for five years and before that was superintendent in Sequim, Wash., for three years, and this is the first time he’s ever seen two board vacancies at the same time.

“The good news for us is our vacancies aren’t because of a controversy or conflict,” he said.

The East Valley School Board

ON THAT NOTE typically has five members, and three are needed for a quorum.

“Nobody can be gone,” Shea said. “Our calendar is to get District 5 filled before the November board meeting.”

Shea has been trying to recruit people to put in an application for the vacant District 1 seat.

“We’ve reached out and we’ve talked to various people, and we don’t have any takers yet,” he said.

School board chairman Justin Volker also isn’t sitting back and waiting for applicants.

“I recruited the previous person for District 1, Todd,” he said. “I have a phone call into one.”

Since no one applied for the seat in October, the district will again open an application period after the November election, Shea said. He said he plans to do what he can to get the word out.

“I’m sure there are people in the district that aren’t even aware,” he said.

Volker said people don’t need special skills to serve on the board.

“The main thing is to have an interest in the education and wellbeing of children,” he said.

He said he is a board member in order to be of service to his community.

“That’s why I ran in 2013, and I feel like I’ve had an impact in my time on the board,” Volker said.

The time needed to serve on the board is flexible, Shea said. People must commit to attending two board meetings a month and spend time reading their agenda packet to prepare before each meeting. Board members are also asked to attend at least two school district events each month, such as a sports game or a concert, in order to be visible in the community. Some do more than that, he said.

“The time commitment is whatever people want to put into it,” he said. “We’re looking for people who will be visible at different district events, whether they have kids in that school or not.”

Volker has a son in middle school football and a daughter on the high school soccer team, so he spends a lot of time attending their games.

But he said he also makes it a point to attend events at schools his children do not attend.

“It’s a commitment,” he said.

“It’s being there and being present.

It’s not just going to things where my kids are.”

School board members also have the option to join the School Directors Association and do legislative work if that interests them, Shea said.

“If you want to do more, there’s a lot more board members can do if they’re interested.”

Shea said he thinks the election process might be scaring some people away, but he hopes people will find the application process easier.

“Putting your name in the hat and going through the election process can be intimidating,” he said.

The fact that the area around Trent Elementary is lower income than much of the rest of the school

DECEMBER 2019 • 39

district may also be a factor, Shea said. Trent Elementary has a high mobility rate, which may make it difficult for parents to commit to a four-year term on the board, Shea said.

If the district cannot fill the vacant seat within the 90-day time limit, the responsibility then shifts to ESD 101, Shea said. The organization can appoint someone to fill the seat or an ESD 101 board member can fill the seat themselves, he said.

But Shea is optimistic that it won’t happen that way, though getting the seat filled will require more effort than usual.

“I know this is going to work out,” he said. “We’re going to find somebody. But we’re doing to have to do more than we’ve done in the past.”

40

• DECEMBER 2019

The Current

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