September 2019 Current

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GREATER SPOKANE VALLEY

A VALLEY-WIDE COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

FAIR DAYS AHEAD PAGE 10

CHAMPION FOR HOMELESS STUDENTS PAGE 2

SV INCLUSION POLICY DEBATED AT COUNCIL PAGE 8

RIVER CITY PIZZA EXPANDS IN VALLEY PAGE 25

NEWS

2 • SEPTEMBER 2019

Home Room Guide

Camden-Goold a resource for students in need

By Craig Howard Current Contributing Editor

Last summer, Leslie CamdenGoold decided she would embark on a special trek.

The idea was to raise awareness and funds to combat student homelessness by hiking 30 miles along the Pacific Coast Trail. As a longtime school social worker, Camden-Goold is well aware of the struggles faced by kids identified as homeless. She works with around 400 students in the Central Valley School District who are currently in temporary or transitional housing situations.

The “Hike Against Homelessness” started off well in the third week of June, with the stunning terrain of Chinook Pass as a backdrop. Then, Camden-Goold and her team ran into a series of obstacles, including waist-deep snow.

“It was so interesting because the challenges we faced on the trail were so similar to what our students see in their day-to-day lives,” CamdenGoold said.

Yet, in an approach that mirrors her commitment to ensure kids find their own footing, Camden-Goold refused to give up. She restructured the hike to cover the same number of miles, only in shorter, more manageable sections.

“I kept thinking, ‘I will not let that section to trail stop me,’” she said.

This year, the cause has ramped up to 93 miles. As of last month, Camden-Goold has covered some 60 miles of that goal.

Backed by the McKinneyVento Homeless Assistance Act, a federal law passed in 1987 to provide resources and protection for homeless students, Camden-Goold serves as a dynamic liaison between students and critical support that includes transportation, food, housing and more. She started with CVSD in the 2001-02 school year after McKinney-Vento, in her words, “got some more teeth.”

Camden-Goold’s day-to-day agenda includes everything from tracking down funds for sports equipment or a band instrument,

making sure students can cover the weekend with enough nutrition or checking into why another student has not been in class for several days. She also oversees the Valley’s HEART (Homeless Education and Resource Team) program.

“My schedule just depends on what my email and voicemail say,” Camden-Goold said.

Camden-Goold’s office at University High School includes something she calls “the crying blanket.”

“It’s just a blanket that students can wrap up in,” she said. “Some cry in it.”

Over the years, Camden-Goold has seen a remarkable stream of success stories emerge from oftenbleak situations. Former students who have graduated from college and transitioned into successful careers return to express gratitude and catch up with a mentor who never gave up on them, despite the obstacles on their personal trail.

“When a student say they don’t have any goals, it doesn’t frustrate me, it just makes me work harder,” Camden-Goold says.

As a student at Central Valley High School in the mid-1970s, Camden-Goold was interested in art and music. Her dad taught music in District 81 before a failed levy eliminated his job and led to a new career as a locksmith. CamdenGoold’s mother taught high school home economics.

“Sometimes I’ll hear from people who say I can’t relate to kids with challenges because I’m from a middle-class household,” CamdenGoold said. “I feel I can give students and families a sense of hope because I know what it’s like to have that stability.”

Camden-Goold grew up in Spokane Valley, attending McDonald Elementary and Evergreen Junior High before graduating from CV in 1978. She had the distinction of being the Bear mascot during her junior year.

Camden-Goold enrolled at Washington State University with the intention of majoring in art.

She also considered interior design before deciding to focus on social sciences. After earning her degree, she latched on as a clerk with Spokane County Superior Court but found the job lacked the diversity and challenges she was seeking in a career.

During a particular dependency trial, Karen Winston, a renowned social worker known for her efforts to protect children from abuse and neglect, impressed Camden-Goold with her dedication, energy and compassion.

“It was amazing,” CamdenGoold recalls. “I thought, ‘This is something I can do.’ I knew I had to make a difference.”

With intentions of going into social work or counseling, CamdenGoold headed back to school, completing Eastern Washington University’s three-year Masters of Social Work program in two years.

Camden-Goold interned and later worked for Winston at Casey Family Partners before accepting a job as a community resource worker in the Post Falls School District.

Now approaching two decades of working on the Valley’s front lines of scarcity, Camden-Goold is quick to deflect credit for the impact she

The Current

has on students and their families.

“I’ve always thought that the counselors and teachers are part of my team,” she said. “Everyone can be part of that support.”

Q: When you were a student at Central Valley High School, were you aware of any classmates who may have been experiencing homelessness and/or extreme poverty?

A: Back when I was in high school, I had no idea there were classmates who were living in situations that in 40 years I would be supporting as a school district McKinney-Vento liaison. It wasn’t until my 30-year reunion, while catching up and talking about what we do for work, that I found out there were several classmates who were not living with their parents during high school.

There was no support for them back in the late 1970s. Now days, I would make sure they had transportation to and from school, make sure they had access to free school meals, pay class fees, make sure they could participate in extracurricular activities and provide any other support they needed while they were in their unstable housing situation.

See LIAISON, Page 3

Photo by Craig Howard Leslie Camden-Goold has served as a social worker in the Central Valley School District since the 2001-02 academic year. As the McKinney-Vento homeless liaison, Camden-Goold helps students in temporary or transitional housing situations find increased stability.

The Current

LIAISON

Continued from page 2 Q: Where do you think we are as a society in terms of recognizing and responding to the issue of youth homelessness?

A: I think that some communities are doing some amazing collaborations around recognizing, responding to and working together to end youth homelessness. But society as a whole has a long way to go in addressing the numerous and complex issues that factor into youth homelessness. A Way Home Washington (AWHW), a statewide nonprofit, is invested in the goal of ending youth and young adult homelessness in our state. Through AWHW’s Anchor Community Initiative, Spokane County is one of four counties in the state (the others being Pierce, Walla Walla and Yakima) that AWHW is providing targeted support to end youth homelessness. In Spokane County, we have gathered youth with lived experience with homelessness and a wide range of service providers including child welfare, juvenile justice, homeless services, behavioral health, school districts and local government together around the table to work together around finding a solution to the issue of youth homelessness in our region.

Q: When you first started with CVSD in the 2001-02 school year, your office was at a space in a community center. Why was it important for you to be housed on a school campus?

A: When the Spokane Valley McKinney-Vento HEART program was formed, we felt that by having my office at Spokane Valley Partners there would be a better opportunity to collaborate more easily with and provide resources on behalf of students and families. Very quickly, we recognized that the program needed to be housed within the school district. The McKinneyVento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law directing school districts to support students who are in unstable, temporary or homeless situations. It is a school mandate, I am a school district employee and the program needed to be based within the school district. The office very quickly moved to Broadway Elementary, and school staff became invested in the program and supporting students who are

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 3

NEWS

experiencing homelessness.

Q: What are some of the strides you’ve seen students make once they have secured reliable housing?

A: Over the years, I have been able to see the importance of housing stability and how it directly affects academic success. When students have a safe, compassionate, supportive place to stay they have much better success in school. If we can stabilize housing, it is much easier to put a plan in place to get students to and from school. I see students get involved with sports, debate, leadership, theater and other school activities because they have stability of housing. I see students forming positive connections with peers and teachers because they aren’t worried about having to move and losing these important relationships. With stability, students start engaging in school, gaining confidence in their abilities, doing better in their classes and getting better grades. All of this leads to a higher probability of graduating. Consistency allows students to set goals for after high school graduation, including employment, technical programs, two- and four-year colleges and the military.

Q: What can the community do to support students in need, and what other resources would be helpful to ensure these kids have the security and confidence they require to succeed in school?

A: Homelessness is complex and complicated. Every youth who is experiencing homelessness has a unique set of circumstances that got them into that situation. That being said, we need to develop flexible and inclusive systems that can help youth with whatever they might be facing. Supportive services that aren’t time limited or have strict guidelines as to who can receive help. As a community we also need to be positive role models. Youth watch the way the community treats its residents, and those interactions make a lasting impression on them.

Resources to help students increase positive relationships in their lives, such as mentors and coaches, increase skills such as employment, internships and volunteering and gain positive memories such as sponsoring students to participate in extracurricular activities, attend prom, go on a band trip or attend a debate tournament.

Q: What are the most challenging parts of your work? What about the most rewarding?

A: The most challenging parts of my work are when there are no resources in our community to help a specific student. Sometimes it takes a while for the community to get things right, but that specific student doesn’t have the time to wait for us to get it right. It’s hard to change the “this is the way we’ve always done it” mindset, but breaking through that way of thinking and trying something new. The most rewarding is seeing students believe in themselves. Going to a theater production they are in, hearing them make an amazing class presentation, seeing them make an incredible catch in a football game, watching their band concert. And after successes and starting to believe in themselves, seeing hope in their eyes!

Q: Have you been able to surmise how kids in challenging economic situations are treated by their fellow students? Do you think they feel isolated?

A: I think that students treat other

students in some not-so-positive ways not necessarily because of their economic situation. I think it’s a lot broader than that. I think that students act in certain ways toward others because they are different than them. This is why students stay quiet about the challenging, chaotic, ugly parts of their lives. They keep those things inside and never work them through. And if they can’t keep it hidden and inside, they sometimes isolate themselves. We need to teach and model tolerance, respect and compassion for those that have different experiences than us.

Q: The second annual Spokane Valley Connect will take place this month. What does an event like this do to raise awareness of homelessness and poverty in our community?

A: The second annual Spokane Valley Connect is on Friday, Sept.

13, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Opportunity Presbyterian Church at 202 N. Pines Road in Spokane Valley. This is an amazing community event that

See LIAISON, Page 6

A clean community is a happy community.

That’s why the City of Spokane Valley and Waste Management are pleased to provide bulk waste services with the Annual Curbside Cleanup.

Spokane Valley residents who subscribe to WM garbage collection are eligible for one collection per calendar year at no additional cost.

What can I set at the curb? That old stove, refrigerator, lawn mower, sofa and more! See the full list and size limits at wmnorthwest.com/spokanevalley.

Call seven days in advance to schedule collection: 1-877-466-4668. (No collection during holiday weeks.)

Please do not place items on the sidewalk, and not more than 24 hours before the scheduled collection.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

ThinkGreenSpokaneValley

LEARN MORE:

wmnorthwest.com

4 • SEPTEMBER 2019

SVFD Report

Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) crews responded to a total of 1,556 emergency calls from July 15 – August 15, 2019.

By the numbers: Emergency Medical Services 245 Fires 99 Motor Vehicle Accidents 65 Building Alarms 51 Dispatched and cancelled enroute 44 Hazardous Materials 19 Service Calls 16 Vehicle Fires 8 Technical Rescue 6 Auto vs Pedestrian 2 Highlights and the news include:

Moving Violation, Extrication, Full Response – July 25 – Spokane Valley Fire crews responded to a moving violation on July 25, 12:44 p.m. Two passenger trucks were involved in an accident near 15100 E Trent Avenue.

When called in, the caller believed there

NEWS

was a passenger trapped inside.

Another caller believed there were injuries. At 12:50 Valley Engine 5 requested 2 more ambulances.

At 12:54 the status of the call was changed to extrication. By 1:09 p.m. all passengers were out of the vehicles and in ambulances being transported for further medical attention.

Structure Fire, Full Response – August 2, 2:28 a.m. - Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to a dispatch call to Harmony Road/south Holiday Road. The caller said she could see a fully involved fire. Another caller said from their address it looked like a possible house or garage fire across the street. They could see smoke and flames. It was unknown by the callers if anyone was home.

When SVFD Crews arrived they found an RV trailer on fire next to the house. There were occupants in the house but not in the RV. Crews worked to evacuate all residents from the house. The garage had propane tanks inside. As the fire progressed, the trailer became

fully engulfed and spread to the garage. With all occupants safely out of the home, firefighters were able to knock down the garage and establish safe conditions. The fire is under investigation.

Appliance Fire – August 4, 2:30 p.m.

Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to a structure fire call near South Pines, East Southwood, and South Union Road. When crews arrived on scene they found a grease fire on the stove. The fire was covered and put out. Crews provided fire safety education for the home and returned to service.

Moving Violation, Serous Hemorrhage – August 6 – Spokane Valley Fire crews responded to a moving violation involving multiple vehicles with a series of rear end collisions on August 6 at 3:23 p.m. near Trent and East Newman Lake.

All passengers appeared to be alert and awake. Injuries included neck pain, mouth lacerations, and head lacerations. Serious bleeding was attended to and passengers were dispatched for further medical

The Current attention.

Marine Rescue, Full Response – August 12, 3:03 p.m. – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to a call on Sullivan Road near the bridge that crosses the Spokane River. A caller identified a woman who had fallen into the river. Another person had jumped in the river and was trying to help her to safety. The current is very strong in this area and it made the rescue difficult and tiring. When crews arrived the man was holding onto the woman while holding onto a rock. Rescue crews got the woman out of the river and began CPR. Once a pulse was established, she was transferred for further medical services.

Spokane Valley Fire Department Open House, Saturday, September 28, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., 2411 N. Pioneer, SVFD Fire Training Center – SVFD is hosting their Annual Fall Open House. The open house is a great opportunity for families to learn fire safety, children to interact with a firefighter, and adults to check on their health. SCOPE will be on hand to help with child ID cards, Firefighters will teach life saving techniques, Rescue 3 will have their Huey helicopter available, live demonstrations will occur, and David’s Pizza and Umpqua ice cream will be there to keep everyone fed and cool. Come down to the fire training center and meet your local firefighting crews.

About SVFD Spokane Valley Fire Department serves the City of Spokane Valley, City of Liberty Lake, City of Millwood and the surrounding unincorporated areas of Spokane County with a combined population of 125,000 across 75 square miles. SVFD firefighters and paramedics responded to more than 17,280 emergency calls in 2017.

Established in 1940, SVFD is an Accredited Agency by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, one of only a handful in Washington State.

For more information about Spokane Valley Fire Department, visit www.spokanevalleyfire.com.

Follow us @spokanevalleyfire on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube.

The Current

NEWS

News Droplets

Primary election results certified The Aug. 6 primary election has been certified, and the results connected to Spokane Valley included: • City of Spokane Valley Council Position No. 2: Incumbent Brandi Peetz (46.8 percent) and Michelle Rasmussen (41.1 percent) advanced to the November general election, while Rocky Samson received 11.5 percent of the vote.

• City of Spokane Valley Council Position No. 3: Incumbent Arne Woodard (43.5 percent) and Lance Gurel (25.4 percent) advanced to the November general election, while Al Merkel (22.0 percent) and Adam Smith (8.4 percent) were eliminated from contention.

• City of Spokane Valley Council Position No. 6: Tim Hattenburg (44.1 percent) and Bo Tucker (28.9 percent) advanced to the November general election, while Pat Stretch (17.7 percent) and Shaun Stanfield (8.4 percent) were eliminated from contention.

• Spokane Valley Fire Department Commissioner Position No. 1: Incumbent Patrick Burch (40.8 percent) and Bradley Mertens (32.7 percent) advanced to the November general election, while Randall Bean received 24.9 percent of the vote.

• City of Liberty Lake Council Position No. 7: Incumbent Cris Kaminskas (46.5 percent) and Tom Stanley (37.3 percent) advanced to the November general election,

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while Jeanette Marie Nall received 18.3 percent of the vote.

• Spokane County Library District Proposition 1: A small levy increase was approved by 55 percent of voters, helping fund maintenance and operations.

Women recognized by YWCA The leader of a Spokane Valleybased credit union and a 2019 East Valley High School graduate are among 10 Women of Achievement Award Honorees to be presented next month by YWCA Spokane.

Carla Cicero, president and CEO of Numerica Credit Union, and Christine Dugger, a leader of Spokane Valley’s Youth Voice and founder of Socks for People Without Homes Spokane, are among the honorees. An awards luncheon will be held at the Spokane Convention Center at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 11.

“This year’s honorees are truly astounding,” says Regina Malveaux, CEO of YWCA Spokane.

“We are honored to recognize so many extraordinary women for their talent, commitment, and contributions to our community.

Each is truly an inspiring leader and woman of great achievement.”

To learn more about the accomplishments and community impact of each of this year’s honorees, visit ywcaspokane.org/ woa2019bios.

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6 • SEPTEMBER 2019

LIAISON

NEWS

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The Current

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SEPTEMBER 2019 • 7

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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 each circle will contain a number indicating how many instances of a particular crime were reported at that location.

Spokane 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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Prepared By: Regional Intelligence Group 9 Spokane County Sheriff

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SAFETY TIP OF THE MONTH

September is national preparedness month. Here are some tips to start getting your house ready, because “Disasters happen, prepare now.”

1. Identify your risk of hazards ( (both natural and human-caused) !

2. Sign up for emergency alerts and warnings in your area at https://www.ready.gov/alerts.

3. Develop or update your preparedness plan, including conditions that will activate the plan.

4. Build an emergency kit with supplies that you may need before, during, and after a natural disaster or severe weather event.

5. Hold an employee/family training session to review your disaster preparedness plan.

6. Conduct a drill to practice your response to an emergency.

7. Meet with your insurance agent at least once a year to review your property coverage.

8 • SEPTEMBER 2019

Valley’s policy on inclusion criticized

NEWS

The Current

By Bill Gothmann Current Contributor

At the Aug. 13 Spokane Valley City Council meeting, Spokane NAACP President Kurtis Robinson presented a letter asking for Spokane Valley to develop a “racial equity policy” for the city.

He read a letter signed by the Spokane Coalition of Color stating “Council Member Linda Thomson (sic) requested that the city adopt a racial equity policy. The fact that it was rebuked by the mayor and other council members claimed that there are not enough people of color to warrant such a policy is all the more reason to adopt one.”

The letter references a July meeting, when Thompson suggested the city consider such a policy before a meeting planned with Congresswoman Cathy McMorrisRodgers, the NAACP, the city of Spokane and Spokane County to examine policies so that “we could have an equity policy to make sure we are inclusive.”

At the time, Mayor Rod Higgins replied, “I would posit we already have such a policy.”

The policy in reference was adopted by resolution on March 28, 2017. It first quotes Washington’s Constitution and state law. Its final paragraph states: “The City Council desires to make clear that the City of Spokane Valley is a city that strives in all instances and through all actions to be an inclusive City, where discrimination of any form is not and shall not be tolerated, where laws apply equally to all citizens, and where all individuals, families and businesses are welcome so that they may flourish and prosper within its boundaries.”

At the July meeting, Thompson offered to gather more information about the subject and return to the Council, and council members encouraged this.

In the letter, Robinson quoted Council Member Arne Woodard’s response to Thompson’s suggestion as “ignorant and disparaging” those of color.

Submitted rendering Phase two of the CenterPlace West Lawn Project was authorized in August by the Spokane Valley City Council and is anticipated to be completed by next summer.

Woodard’s July statement: “I think we’re trying to make a problem when there isn’t one. I say that from the last week of experiences of talking to very dark skinned people of color, and I’ve asked them the question, ‘do you feel you are prejudiced against or do you find any discrimination in the city of Spokane valley?’ and every one of them said, ‘no, this is a great place to live.’ I said, ‘have you ever had any problems with the police?’ One said that he was stopped because he was as dark as the hat on Bob West’s head, and he said, ‘I was stopped one evening and he said he wanted to know what I was doing and where I was going. I told him, and he then said ‘If I have done something wrong arrest me.’ And the officer said, ‘No you were not doing anything wrong; just checking to see what’s going on, who you were. I hadn’t seen you around before and you are driving a car that was a little beat up and I just wanted to know what you were doing and so no problems.’ He’s had no other problems. He’s been here for a very long time now. And I’ve talked the same types of questions to my Hispanic people that I know very well and Vietnamese, the Filipinos and others and there just isn’t a problem here in Spokane Valley.”

While Woodard’s comments evoked both criticism and defense at the Aug. 13 meeting, the city of Spokane Valley itself has a history of positive interactions with different ethnic and religious groups connected to the community.

On March 2, 2016, a naked man broke into the Sikh temple in Spokane Valley. Several Valley and

community officials – including Higgins, Woodard and Sheriff Ozzie Knezovich -- showed up to support Sikh members.

“This is not who we are,” Higgins said at a press conference (as quoted in the March 4, 2016, Inlander). “This is not who the people of the Valley are, and we do not condone any action such as this. Any desecration of a house of worship is intolerable and cannot be tolerated and we won’t.”

Members of the Spokane Valley City Council interacted with members of the Spokane Islamic Center when it was constructed in 2009 in Spokane Valley, and a Council member recently reported again at the Center about city matters.

Woodard also addressed his take on the diversity and inclusiveness in the Valley from his perspective as a Realtor.

“I don’t know any one spot in the Valley I can go to that is purely Hispanic, or Vietnamese or purely Russian or purely any other group,” he said. “I don’t know of any of them.

If anybody knows, I’d like to know. I do know from a Realtor’s standpoint, if you do want to be prejudiced on housing you are going to be slapped so hard by HUD and the federal government you don’t even want to know what hit you. It’s not just a steamroller; they put the water in the tanks and they run you over. We can look, but I don’t think that anything rises to an alert level, for me at least.”

Phase two of Centerplace project to be bid Council unanimously moved

to authorize phase two of the Centerplace West Lawn Project.

Phase one, completed in time for this summer’s activities, was a $200,000 project that included removing berms, regrading swales, adjusting drywells and repairing sod and irrigation installations, all with the goal of creating more level areas for events. The phase two project will provide a new culdesac, walks, trails, upgraded electrical capability, restroom with storage, fencing, irrigation, landscaping and new gateways and performance areas. It will cost about $2 million to be split between the 2019 and 2020 budgets.

By authorizing the project at this time, it can be ready for the major events next summer.

Contract for Appleway Trail awarded City Council unanimously approved awarding a $1,943,799.15 contract to WM Winkler for construction of the Evergreen to Sullivan Appleway Trail. This was about $200,000 under the engineer’s estimate. The low Winkler bid enables the city to complete not only the base bid, but include the two alternatives.

The base bid provides for the asphalt trail, landscaping, irrigation, lighting, parking lot and rough restroom plumbing. The alternates provide for trash receptacles, benches, dog waste dispensers and completion of the restroom facility. Construction is expected to begin in September and be completed in spring 2020.

This segment will complete the construction of the Appleway Trail from University to Tschirley,

See COUNCIL, Page 9

The Current

COUNCIL

Continued from page 8 providing a complete path east to Liberty Lake.

City may partner caring for Pinecroft Natural Area The Pinecroft Natural Area Preserve is a 100-acre natural area located west of the YMCA building in Mirabeau Park and south of the northern portion of Mirabeau Parkway. It is owned by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and is left undeveloped. DNR has been unable to keep up with the unsanctioned use of the area, resulting in resource damage. The partners wish to provide guided access to the area by constructing a trail and some signage.

In this way, the community could be informed about the ecological and conservation values of the site, increasing public “ownership.”

Staff could negotiate an interlocal agreement defining improvements and their costs and return to Council for further discussion. DNR would continue to own the facility.

However, the city would benefit by adding more park space for citizens to enjoy. There was unanimous Council agreement to continue exploring the partnership.

Homeless shelter discussed As discussed in last month’s The Current, the Ninth Circuit Court has decided that Boise cannot enforce their restrictions on camping in city parks, sidewalks and property unless provision is made for sheltering the homeless. To meet this challenge, there is ongoing discussion among the county, the city of Spokane and Spokane Valley about developing a vacant grocery store at Havana and Sprague as a homeless shelter. Staff noted there are two approaches cities use toward homelessness. HUD (federal Housing and Urban Development) favors providing housing first, thus decreasing transitional housing, and then addressing social needs.

Staff preferred looking at what is happening to our community and devising a system to meet that need, focusing on causes of homelessness.

The proposed shelter would be the largest in the area. Spokane is requesting $1.2 million from Spokane County for the purchase and construction costs, with possible ongoing operating costs to be requested later, estimated to be $1.3 to $3.7 million. These funds come

NEWS

from existing recording fees from all over Spokane County, including Spokane Valley. Thus, taxes would not increase. The facility would serve only adults, prohibit use of drugs or alcohol on the premises and serve the entire county. A neighborhood impact board would be created to address security for the clients and for neighbors, taking special note that Project ID is next door. The city of Spokane is already soliciting proposals from possible shelter operators. It was also noted that the location is not yet been finally decided. Staff will continue to work with Spokane and Spokane County to address these challenges.

2020 budget goals discussed City Council examined 10 proposed budget goals for the 2020 city budget. These include working with legislators, pursuing a sustainable pavement preservation program, pursuing financial assistance for the Barker Corridor, expanding economic development efforts, pursuing financing for both Appleway Trail and Balfour Park, pursuing connections for such parks with the Centennial Trail, maximizing the law enforcement contract to increase retention, increasing community interactions, and prioritizing involvement in public safety, especially as it relates to the jail.

Potential projects funded by reserves Each year, the city prepares a budget that estimates spending and revenues for each department based upon both historical and possible future events. The city also needs operating funds to account for timing of operating revenues and expenses.

The fund balance consists of these operating funds, spending and revenues. Staff usually overestimates spending and underestimates revenues to account for possible future events. City departments are careful to keep spending under budget, leaving funds unspent at the end of the year. Because of these factors, there has been a surplus of revenues over expenses at the end of most years. Any surplus in the fund balance over 50 percent of operating expenses is then transferred to the Capital Reserve Fund two years after the surplus occurs, where it is used for one-time projects. The reserve from the 2017 budget was $7.1 million and, when added to funds left over from the Civic Facilities Fund and the City Hall Fund, makes

$7.2 million transferred to the Capital Reserve Fund this year.

However, since council was aware the transfer would probably occur, they had previously decided to spend $2.6 million, primarily on the Garland Avenue and Barker Road construction projects. Thus, Council needed to decide what to do with the remaining $4.6 million. They decided to allocate $1.4 million to street preservation, $1.5 million to the Pines Separation Project, and $500,000 each to park land acquisition, Balfour Park, and the Sullivan/Trent interchange.

The remainder would be used for “surprises/challenges.”

2020 budget revenues and expenses detailed Staff is proposing $86.9 million in expenditures for the city next year, including $44.9 million in the general fund and $42 million over 23 additional funds. Full time equivalent (FTE) employee count will increase by 1.5 FTE to 95.25 to account for an additional code

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 9

enforcement officer and a 0.5 FTE attorney, permitting the attorney to increase from half-time to full time. General fund revenues are expected to increase 5.9 percent to $48.2 million, fueled by a 7.49 percent increase in general sales tax receipts.

The property tax levy is not proposed to include the 1 percent increase authorized by state law.

Major non-recurring expenses include $1.5 million to complete improvements to the CenterPlace west lawn and $190,000 in IT-related capital replacements. There is a proposal on the table, not in the budget, to form a crisis co-response team, costing $100,000. This would permit a mental health professional to ride with officers to address conflicts and homelessness. A possible Trueblood grant may help the city fund this service. Pavement preservation is still a challenge to the city and the budget.

Three public hearings are scheduled for citizens to address the budget, with the final ordinance expected to be adopted on Nov. 12.

10 • SEPTEMBER 2019

COVER STORY

Fair season is here!

Family festivities span September in Spokane County

By Keith Erickson Current Contributor

Fairgoers, on your mark. The seasonal delight that mixes dizzying rides, alluring deep-fried fare, carnival games, live entertainment, loud cars and malodorous barnyard animals is just around the corner.

The festive family fun kicks off Sept. 6 with the Spokane County Interstate Fair and continues through the month with fairs and fests covering every corner of the county and tens of thousands of people destined to get in on the fun.

Here’s the lowdown: Spokane County Interstate Fair. Sept. 6-15 at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center in the Spokane Valley at Havana Street and Broadway Avenue.

This year’s theme is “Pirates of the Carrots and Beans” and will include several new events and attractions, said fair manager Erin Gurtel.

Celebrating its 68th year at the

present location, the Interstate Fair is one of Spokane’s largest annual events and strives to be a place where one can visit the past, explore the future, and enjoy the wonders of the present in a single location, Gurtel said.

“With 10 full days, we have an opportunity to pack in a lot of fun,” Gurtel said. “Every year, we try to enhance the fairgoers’ experience by including new and different attractions—and it’s all part of one fair ticket. It’s the best all-around family entertainment deal you’ll find anywhere!”

In recognition of this year’s buccaneer theme, daring pirate performers will dive from a 90-foot platform into 10 feet of water to thrill onlookers.

Organizers have also added a food court with scores of picnic tables near the performance stage so visitors can indulge in their favorite fair foods while watching a wide spectrum of entertainment.

Contributed photos by Ben Gurtel/Spokane County Interstate Fair

A new north stage has been added for more entertainment that will include dueling pianos and other live shows.

The high-energy carnival with breakneck attractions includes two exciting new rides: Himalaya: “You won’t have to make the trek to the snowy slopes of the Swiss Alps to experience the rush of this toboggan ride,” Gurtel said. “Riders will see the fair in a blur as the fabulous Himalaya takes them on a fast, up-down-around trip faster and faster, then backward too.”

Cake Walk Funhouse: The Cake Walk Funhouse takes riders through a silly bakery adventure. “This crazy funhouse is a thrilling trip through a maze of unusual sights and sounds.

Inside and out, the Cake Walk is filled with tricks and adventures, complete with music, lights and picturesque scenery!” she said.

A daily entertainment calendar is filled with exciting events the entire family can enjoy, Gurtel said.

Some highlights: A concert series with big names representing a diverse genre including country music superstars Shenandoah, Restless Heart and

The Current Trace Adkins and for a little longhair nostalgia the 1970s-80s rock band Foreigner will also perform.

Tickets are still available for the shows.

Grandstand events are always a huge draw, Gurtel said, and the favorites won’t disappoint — from the PRCA rodeo to a truck and tractor pull and demolition derbies.

The North Stage will feature several themes, including Ag Day, Senior Day and Patriot Day. Last year, 205,997 guests passed through the gates at the Spokane County Interstate Fair, and Gurtel is expecting another strong year for 2019.

“It’s a great time for the community to come together and celebrate the end of summer and approach of fall,” Gurtel said.

Tickets: Youth, seniors and military, $8, general admission $11.

Visit spokanefair2019.com for event and concert ticket information Valleyfest. Sept. 20-22, mostly at Mirabeau Point Park, Spokane Valley.

Celebrating its 30th year, Valleyfest is expected to attract more than 30,000 people this year, said event executive director Peggy Doering.

“To mark this special year, we’re featuring some activities that we had many, many years ago — we’re bringing our royalty back!” Doering said. “A king and queen, who are local senior citizens, will be on hand to grant kids wishes. It’s really a very positive message.”

Events at CenterPlace Stage include live music, beer garden, comedy cup and a car show.

On the Family Stage, there will be magic shows, Taiko drummers, dance clubs, dueling pianos and more.

Attractions at the Meadow Festival Stage include dancers, percussionists, fiddlers and a local Latino band.

There will also be a 5K and 10K run, bed races, family bike ride and a parade on Sept. 20.

The mission of Valleyfest is simple, Doering said.

“We want to put on a communitydriven, safe, family oriented,

See FAIRS, Page 11

The Current

COVER STORY

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 11

Contributed photos of Valleyfest

FAIRS

Continued from page 10 visually dramatic festival,” she said. “Valleyfest exposes the talent that enriches the Spokane Valley region and celebrates the visual and performing arts, education, science and recreation so the entire community can experience them.”

Tickets: Free Visit valleyfest.org for event information.

Spokane Oktoberfest. Sept. 2729 at the CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley.

This family-friendly event celebrates German cheer, dancing, eating and singing on two entertainment stages with live music, outdoor and indoor beer gardens, games and more, said director Karen Stebbins.

Contributed photos of Oktoberfest

“This is our third year in the Spokane Valley, and we’re excited to offer a ton of great fun and more bands than ever before including the very popular Oktoberfest band S-Bahn with singer and accordionist Richard Tyce,” Stebbins said.

Thousands attend Spokane Oktoberfest every year, and the event continues to grow. Activities include a 5K and 10K run benefitting Spokane Valley Partners, wiener dog races, quaffing (with beer direct from Germany) and games including stein hoisting, bocce courts, corn hole, holey board, a nail pounding competition and more, Stebbins said.

Tickets: $10 general admission, $15 weekend (with wristband).

Visit spokaneoktoberfest.com for event information.

Southeast Spokane County Fair. Sept. 20-22 at 26 Willow Road, Rockford

Affectionately known as “75 years of barn parties in Rockford,” the Southeast Spokane County Fair is an annual community celebration that began in 1943, said event director Jeff Sainsbury.

“This local fair has since grown to a three-day event that attracts exhibitors and fair-goers from Spokane County, Whitman County and parts of Idaho,” Sainsbury said.

Operating as a nonprofit, the fair relies greatly on monetary contributions and community helpers throughout the entire year, culminating with the three-day event in September.

Events include a carnival, kiddie and grand parade, fair royalty 3-on3 basketball, a fun run, soapbox derby and more.

Tickets: Free Visit sespokanecountyfair.com for event information.

Better than ‘fair weather’ forecast for September

Those planning to get in on the fair fun this month will have Mother Nature on their side.

Traditionally a pleasant month, the long-range forecast calls for high temperatures mostly in the 70s for September with showers forecast on only four days for the entire month, according to the National Weather Service in Spokane.

“Historically, it’s been a pretty dry and mild month, much like June but with less rain,” said meteorologist Glenn Parker. The month’s warmest temperature is forecast for Friday, Sept. 20, with a high of 82 and the lowest maximum temperature of 67 degrees under partly cloudy skies on Wednesday, Sept. 25.

COMMUNITY

12 • SEPTEMBER 2019

PRESENTS Weekly Girls Basketball Skills Camp Classes are held on Sunday at the Warehouse Athletic Facility 800 N Hamilton St., Spokane, WA $20.00 per session and payment will be made monthly or per session.

Starts September 8, 2019 Enroll at the first Session at the Warehousee Athletic Facility on the Jazz Court

Level 2 11:00-12:30 (4th - 7th grades) Level 3 12:30-2:00 (8th - 12th grades)

To Enroll Now call 509-499-1112

or email rsadams23@gmail.com

payments can be made per month or per session

Special Classes by area colleges and their players will take place.

“ IT’S

THE LAW ”

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

www.CallBeforeYouDig.org

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

The Current

Calendar of Events COMMUNITY EVENTS

concurrently and adjacent to Liberty Lake Farmers Market and featuring electric vehicles and test drives. For more, visit driveelectricweek.org.

Sept. 3 | Compass Club Luncheon – 11 a.m., McEuen Park, 420 E. Front Street, Coeur d’Alene. BBQ with ribs and all the fixings, including outdoor activities. Spouses and friends encouraged to attend. For more, email compassres@gmail.com or visit spokanecompassclub.org.

Sept. 14 | Cops, Cars & Cruisers for Special Olympics – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Liberty Lake Police Department, 23127 E. Mission Ave. Supporting Special Olympics of Washington, event is open to vehicles of all types. Tribute to First Responders ceremony at noon. Several awards, including Special Olympian Choice, Chief and Police Ambassador Choice and others are awarded awards at 1:30 pm. A memorial police escorted through Liberty Lake will depart from the police department at 2 pm.

Best of Show awarded upon return from cruise.

Sept. 6 | Story Walk Dedication – 4 to 5 p.m., Rocky Hill Park, 24901 E. Mission Ave., Liberty Lake. Event dedicates story walk installed along the sidewalk at Rocky Hill Park, a cooperative effort between Spokane Valley Tech students, Liberty Lake Parks and Arts Commission, City of Liberty Lake and Liberty Lake Municipal Library. The first four books will be displayed at different times throughout the year, beginning with “All the World” by Liz Garton Scanlon.

Sept. 6-15 | Spokane County Interstate Fair – Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, Havana and Broadway, Spokane Valley. For extensive event and concert info, visit spokanefair2019.com.

Sept. 7 | “Extravaganza” Yard Sale, Booths, Food and More – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Veradale United Church of Christ, 611 N. Progress Road, Spokane Valley. Events include crafts, produce, cake walk, movie, raffle, car wash, concert and food, with proceeds supporting VUCC missions. For more, email veradaleucc@gmail.com.

Sept. 13 | 2019 Spokane Valley Connect – 2 to 6 p.m., Opportunity Presbyterian Church, 202 N. Pines Road, Spokane Valley. Second annual free community services event offers afternoon of one-stop shopping for variety of needs provided by dozens of local vendors.

Sept. 14 | Spokane River Cleanup – 9 a.m., various locations. 16th annual event with historically more than 600 volunteers removing debris along river corridor. Multiple locations to sign up for online at spokaneriver.net.

Sept. 14 | National Drive Electric Week Celebration – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., STA Parking Lot on East Mission Avenue, Liberty Lake. Held

Sept. 14 | Spokane NAACP Centennial Celebration Dinner – 6 to 9 p.m., Northern Quest Resort, 100 N. Hayford Road, Airway Heights. 100th anniversary of Spokane chapter includes keynote by actor and activist Danny Glover.

Tickets start at $100. For more, visit naacpowsac.org.

Sept. 17 | “Hope is Golden” Benefit Luncheon – Noon to 1 p.m., Centennial Hotel, 303 W. North River Drive, Spokane. Supporting the American Childhood Cancer Organization of the Inland Northwest, doors open at 11:30 a.m. for silent auction. Luncheon is free; attendees will be asked to give from the heart. RSVP by Sept. 9 to hope@ accoinlandnw.org or 443-4162.

Sept. 18 | “How to Prevent Medicare Fraud?” – 3 to 5 p.m., Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne Road, Spokane Valley. Resources and information to prevent, detect and report health care fraud, errors and abuse. No registration required.

For more, visit scld.org/engage.

Sept. 20-22 | Valleyfest – Mostly at Mirabeau Point Park and CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley. Starting with the Hearts of Gold Parade down Sprague Avenue at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 20, to the various activities and events over the weekend, this is the 30th anniversary of Spokane Valley’s premier community festival. For more, visit valleyfest.org.

Sept. 20-22 | Southeast Spokane

County Fair – 26 Willow Road, Rockford. 75th annual event including carnival, parades, fair royalty, 3-on-3 basketball, fun run and more. For more, visit sespokanecountyfair.com.

Sept. 21 | Food for Thought Collection Drive – 10 a.m. to Noon, Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, 23515 E. Boone Ave., Liberty Lake. Drop off donations for program providing weekend meals to underprivileged Spokane Valley students. Volunteers wanting to help pick up donations placed on porches in Liberty Lake can meet at the church at 9 a.m.

Sept. 24 | “Making Your Money Last in Retirement” – 6:30 p.m., Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne Road, Spokane Valley. Part of a financial planning with Edward Jones series (informational series only – no sales). No registration required. For more, visit scld.org/ engage.

Sept. 25 | “What Every Parent Should Know About Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying” – 6:30 p.m., St. Joseph Parish Hall, 4521 N. Arden Road, Otis Orchards. Panel of experts from East Valley and Central Valley school districts and Spokane County’s Juvenile Unit will discuss warning signs, potential criminal consequences and what should parents do. Also, there will be a special presentation on cyberbullying. Free event, complementary babysitting services available.

Sept. 26 | HUB All-Star Breakfast 2019 – 7 to 9 a.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1100 N. Sullivan Road, Spokane Valley. Sixth annual fundraiser featuring speaker Devon Thomas, senior associate athletic director at Eastern Washington University. RSVP by Sept.13 at hubsportscenter.org.

Sept. 27-29 | Spokane Oktoberfest – CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley. Celebrating German cheer, dancing, eating and singing with bands, beer gardens, games and a family-friendly atmosphere. Tickets vary by package and available at door or online at spokaneoktoberfest. com.

Sept. 28 | 2019 Spokane Valley Fire Department Open House – 10

The Current

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 13

COMMUNITY

a.m. to 2 p.m., 2411 N. Pioneer Lane, Spokane Valley. Free family fun day features live fire demonstration and the chance to run a fire hose or try on gear. Fire apparatus and helicopter on display. Also: hot dogs, beverages, David’s Pizza, take-home giveaways and safety information. No pets please due to insurance liability. For more, call 928-1700 or visit spokanevalleyfire. com.

RECURRING fACT 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 2262202.

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 2913722.

Rockford Historical Society | 11:30 a.m. second Friday of the month (February to November), The Harvest Moon, 20 S. First St., Rockford. For more, call 291-3193.

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 Quilt Guild | Meetings at 7 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.

Spokane Valley Senior Citizens

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Continued from page 13 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 Sept. 13-29 | “See How They Run” – Various times, Ignite! Community Theatre, 10814 E. Broadway Ave., Spokane Valley. A fast-paced British farce full of mistaken identities, doors and ... vicars? For tickets and more info, visit igniteonbroadway. org.

RECURRING The Fire Brigade| 7 p.m., first Saturday of the month, Ignite!

Community Theatre, 10814 E.

The Current 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

HEALTH & RECREATION Sept. 14-15 | 2019 RIM Ride – Various times, Meadowwood Technology Campus, 2100 N. Molter Road, Liberty Lake. Saturday 5-mile family ride and 15, 25, 50 and 100 mile rides Sunday organized by the Liberty Lake Centennial Rotary Club. Register online at rotaryinmotion.com.

Sept. 18 | Grief and Healing Discussion Group – 9:30 to 11 a.m., Spokane Valley United Methodist Church, 115 N. Raymond Road, Spokane Valley. Six-week group meets Wednesdays through Oct. 23.

For more, call 924-7262.

Sept. 22 | Multi-Sport Day at Valleyfest – Various times, Plantes Ferry Sports Complex, Spokane Valley. Boat/bike/run triathlon, duathlon and 5K/10K run. Register online at valleyfest.org.

Sept. 27 | HUB-apalooza Family Fun Festival – 4 to 7 p.m., HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Celebrating the HUB’s 12th birthday with free event featuring basketball, martial arts classes, volleyball, pickleball, futsal, jump house and more. For more, visit hubsportscenter.org.

Sept. 28 | Sugar Rush 5K/10K – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., CenterPlace Regional

Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley. Billed as the “sweetest 5K/10K around,” run/ walk event concludes at Oktoberfest with dessert buffet.

Event benefits Spokane Valley Partners.

Registration is $35 for adults and $15 for youth and includes weekend admission to Okotberfest. For more, visit svpart.org or call 927-1153.

Oct. 5 | Walk to End Alzheimer’s 2019 – 10 a.m., Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St., Spokane. Annual walk to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s includes Promise Garden Ceremony followed by 3-mile walk. Family and petfriendly. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. For more, visit act.alz.org/ spokane.

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: • Pickleball drop-in: 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday and Thursday; 6 to 8 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 | 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, Willow Song Music Therapy Center, 21101 E. Wellesley #102, Otis Orchards. Specifically designed for those living with chronic health issues such as Parkinson’s, dementia, COPD, MS, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, cancer. $10 donation suggested.

Facilitated by board-certified music therapist, Carla Carnegie. For more, visit willowsongmusictherapy.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.

CIVIC & BUSINESS Sept. 20 | Business Connections Breakfast – 7 to 9 a.m., Spokane Valley Event Center, 10514 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley.

Monthly gathering of the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce. For more or to register ($35 or $25 for members by Sept. 18), visit spokanevalleychamber.org.

Oct. 11 | Live2Lead Simulcast – 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Eastpoint Event Center, 15303 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley. Morning simulcast features speakers such as John Maxwell, Rachel Hollis and Marcus Buckingham followed by afternoon

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 15

The Current

brought to you by Student of the Month For the past three years, Ryson Cebriak has been a regular on the honor roll at West Valley High School. The senior maintains a 4.0 grade point average and will serve as vice president of WV’s National Honor Society (NHS) chapter for the 2019-20 academic year. Cebriak contributes to various community service projects through NHS and is also part of Link Crew, a program that mentors and supports underclassmen. He participates in the WV leadership program as well.

This summer, Cebriak was one of two ambassadors from West Valley at the Washington Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar at Washington State University. Cebriak has earned varsity letters in tennis the past two years, qualifying for the district tournament in doubles each season. The senior works part-time at a dentist’s office and would like to pursue studies and a career in orthodontics.

of practical follow-up led by local leaders. Early bird registration of $89 for just the morning simulcast or $109 for the full event closes Sept. 16 ($119 and $139 until Oct. 4). For more or to register, visit live2leadspokane. com.

Oct. 16 | “Building Your Brand” Lunch and Learn – Noon to 1 p.m., Spokane Valley City Hall, 10210 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley. Local marketing firm The Woodshop leads this free workshop.

Wednesdays in September | SCORE Small Business Classes – Wednesday mornings, SBA Training Room, 801 W. Riverside Ave. 4th Floor, Spokane. Cost is $25 if preregistered. SCORE Spokane offers a variety of low-cost workshops designed to encourage the success of emerging and small business owners. Free business mentoring is also available. For more, visit spokane.score.org.

RECURRING 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,

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

Tiffany Phout of East Valley High School emerged as the premier tennis player in the Great Northern League during her freshman year. Phout was named 2019 league MVP in singles and won district and regional crowns before advancing to state where she won her first match. She only lost one GNL match all season – and that due to forfeit. Her achievements came despite a chronic knee condition that has required two surgeries. In the classroom, the sophomore maintains a 3.9 grade point average and is a regular on the honor roll. She also plays the violin in the EV orchestra and is part of the school’s Strolling Strings program which provides music at various sites including retirement homes. She has been playing violin since the fourth grade. Phout would like to continue her tennis career in college.

Many people remember Eldonna Shaw-Davis as the president and CEO of the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce from 2001 to 2014. Yet the longtime Valley resident has also been an instructor at Eastern Washington University since 2008 teaching organizational behavior/theory and organizational leadership.

Shaw-Davis has also led chambers of commerce in two Idaho communities – Sandpoint and Moscow – and served as president of statewide chamber organizations in Washington and Idaho. Shaw-Davis was one of the first female Rotarians in central California. Since 2004, she has been part of the Spokane Symphony Chorale as a vocalist and past president. Now the owner of Food Flavor Fit, Shaw-Davis is a self-described “teacher, coach and healthy food advocate.” She has her undergraduate degree from the University of Idaho and a master’s from Gonzaga. She is the proud mother of three grown children.

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 9262753 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. Priority is given to noncommercial local events open to the public.

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SEPTEMBER 2019 • 17

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Instructional Classes offered

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

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About and for Valley seniors

Franks honored for 35 years as volunteer

By Nina Culver Current Contributor

Spokane Valley resident Jane Franks was recently honored for her 35 years volunteering at the Spokane Valley Senior Center, and she has no plans to stop.

The senior center board presented her with a plaque and flowers during a surprise ceremony that her family was invited to attend.

“I cried,” Franks said. “I came in to play bridge.”

Franks has lived in the Spokane area for decades. She left for a few years in the ‘80s to work in the Seattle area but came back and bought a house in Spokane Valley.

“I thought to get acquainted with people I’m going to have to volunteer somewhere,” she said.

She volunteered at Spokane Valley Hospital and with Car Cares in addition to coming to the senior center.

“I was a senior, and I thought I’d get acquainted with people my age,” she said.

She served on the board for 12 of her 35 years, but cut back on her volunteering a couple years ago when a family member was diagnosed with cancer. But she still runs the front desk every Monday.

“It just seems like part of my life,” she said. “It keeps me busy.

Photo by Nina Culver Jane Franks, 92, was recently surprised by the Spokane Valley Senior Center with a ceremony honoring her 35 years of volunteer service to the organization.

At 92 years old, if I sat down and put my feet up I wouldn’t be able to walk, probably.”

Spokane Valley Senior Center Association board member Joan Stevens said having a longtime volunteer like Franks around is invaluable.

“The history that that woman has in her memory is phenomenal,” Stevens said. “She’s been the president, the treasurer, the secretary.”

Franks was also around when the senior center moved from its old location on Mission Avenue next to Mission Park into the CenterPlace building at 2426 N. Discovery Place, where the senior center has its own wing.

Stevens said she volunteers as a substitute receptionist when needed.

“She was my trainer,” she said of Franks. “I can’t tell you how important she is. If anyone has any questions, go see Jane. Jane will know.”

The nonprofit doesn’t have any paid staff.

“We’re a volunteer organization,” Stevens said. “It’s the volunteers who do all the work. These ladies and gentlemen that coordinate the activities are really who run it.”

Franks comes to the center three or four times a week to play bridge.

“A lot of my friends have a foursome at their house,” she said.

“I play lots of bridge. It really keeps me busy and keeps me thinking.”

She also likes to stop in and have the lunch that is served every weekday at 11:30 a.m. by Greater Spokane County Meals on Wheels.

“The menus are all really good,” she said.

Stevens said the senior center has a lot to offer. There are a lot of games scheduled every week, including table tennis, billiards, chess, dominos, scrabble, cribbage, Wii bowling, mahjongg and Texas Hold ‘Em. There’s a book club, a knitting and crochet group, dances and support groups. The center also hosts Act 2 classes for seniors that are put on by Spokane Community

College.

But there’s no question about what is the most popular.

“It’s got to be bridge and pinochle,” Stevens said. “Those are big.”

There’s also a large library on the second floor.

“You just go in and take whatever you want and keep it as long as you want,” Stevens said.

The Spokane Valley Senior Center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. Annual dues are $25 per person or $45 per couple. The suggested donation for the daily lunch is $5.

Stevens said the center is a draw for women, who tend to be more social, but it can also fill an important role for men who can drop in and play cards or pool or just chat. She said she spoke to one man recently who had just moved to the area to be near family but needed something to do during the day. He took an extensive tour one day and stayed for lunch. He was hooked.

He became a regular – browsing the library, having lunch, chatting in the lobby.

“For the first three weeks he came every day,” she said. “I was very happy to see he wasn’t going to be alone.”

Franks sees volunteering at the front desk once a week as her way of giving back to an organization that has led to several close friendships.

It also gives her a chance to chat with other members as they come and go.

“It wouldn’t be good for me to sit at home by myself,” she said. “I’d miss all these folks if I didn’t come in and pay back by volunteering one day.”

Franks is quick to recommend that people come in to the senior center even if they don’t think of themselves as a senior citizen yet.

“We have lots of 50-year-olds join,” she said. “That’s the youngest they can be. You’d be surprised how many friends you’ll make.”

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WV’s Allen primed for senior campaign

By Steve Christilaw Current Contributor Matt Allen spent his summer doing two things.

First, he worked hard to recover from a surgical procedure to get himself ready for his senior season.

Second, he spent plenty of time going over video of his junior season, looking for ways to get better as a starting quarterback.

“It’s not up to me, of course, but I think we need to get back to the passing game,” he said. “We need to throw the ball more. Defense

wise, we’re great. Offense wise, we need to keep getting better on our offensive line, and we lost a tough running back. We need to put the ball in the air more.”

Allen will have something to say about how the offense goes and everything to do with how successful it is. In his first two seasons as a starter, Allen is 21-3 and has led the Eagles to the state Class 2A playoffs each year. As a sophomore, the Eagles season ended in the state semifinals to eventual state champion Hockinson. Last year, the team lost a frustrating

first-round game at Ellensburg, 6-0.

“That was such a frustrating way to end the season,” Allen said.

“We had so many blown chances.

We had a dropped pass in the end zone. We got stopped at the 1 and got stopped in the red zone, I don’t know, four or five or six times.”

After the long, frustrated bus ride home, the Eagles set out to make themselves better. Summer weight lifting and speed drills were well attended.

“I wasn’t able to be there after my surgery, but my teammates told me that everyone was there and doing the workouts,” Allen said. “Coach isn’t always the happiest guy, but they said that he was really happy with the turnouts at workouts.”

“We had really good participation in our weightlifting and speed programs,” coach Craig Whitney said. “We had 50 to 60 kids taking part. That’s really good.”

This year’s senior class is ready to improve on its impressive record.

During their first three years at West Valley, these seniors are 31-5.

“There aren’t many teams out there that can match that record,” Whitney said. “Maybe one or two programs.”

Starting his 16th season as the Eagles head coach, Whitney starts the season just three wins shy of 100 career victories.

West Valley has already earned state-wide recognition for this season. The Seattle Times put the Eagles at No. 6 in their preseason Top 10 rankings for Class 2A. Allen said the WV offense will be different this year.

Photo by Steve Christilaw West Valley players surround coach Craig Whitney during an August practice.

The Eagles are ranked No. 6 in The Seattle Times preseason Class 2A rankings.

“First of all, we don’t have Marshall Meleney, so we don’t necessarily have that big, bruising running back,” Allen said. “I see us going with more of a play-action passing attack with me rolling out and making quick throws.”

Or tucking the ball under his arm and running past people.

“That’s more fun that it looks,” Allen laughed. “That’s the best feeling.”

The Eagles have more than 30 freshmen players out, with a total turnout of close to 90.

Allen said he remembers being one of those freshmen – especially when he was called up to the varsity at the end of that season as a backup to starter Hunter Wright.

“I remember being scared to death,” he recalled. “The coaches told me that I would be going in if anything happened to Hunter. And I remember thinking he was the best player I’d ever seen.”

Allen did not start the first few games of his sophomore season, and when he did take over he consciously deferred leadership to older teammates.

“When I first became the starting quarterback as a sophomore I didn’t try to take over and say ‘This is my team,’” Allen said. “We already had Connor Whitney and Collin Sather, and I let them be the team leaders.”

Now that he’s a senior, the quarterback and the player teammates will look to as a team leader, he’s ready to shoulder that mantle.

“I understand that as a senior and the quarterback I’m a role model,” he said. “I know there will be young guys looking up to me and looking to me to see how they need to act.”

Allen said he does have one special goal for the upcoming season. He wants to play in West Valley’s rivalry game with East Valley.

“I have never played a game against East Valley,” he said. “I’ve always managed to get injured and had to sit out that game. I don’t know what it is about that game, but I want to play them.”

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 21

The Current

Reflections from the slow lane

By Mike Vlahovich The Final Point A few weeks ago, the traffic heading north up Pines Road was bumper to bumper. Only by an act of God were we able to make a green light quickly after getting our take-out at Jack in the Box and squeeze through the jam to get to the on-ramp headed eastbound on the freeway. It was bumperto-bumper until we got past Liberty Lake, and even then it was crowded all the way to Post Falls, where we exited.

It got me to thinking.

Sixty years ago, we lived just one block off Sprague Avenue on Moffatt Road. We could walk to the long-since demolished Opportunity Grade School on a railroad track that ran parallel to Sprague.

There was no freeway. Sprague was the east-to-west equivalent of a four-lane I-90. As patrol boys, we fifth- and sixth-graders had the power to stop cars and let classmates cross a street. That couldn’t happen today.

Liberty Lake was out in the country, and it seemed to take forever to get there for a swim.

Today, the Valley is incorporated, and Liberty Lake is a burgeoning city.

West Valley back then was likely the Valley’s largest school.

Central Valley was still rural, and there was no University. Tiny Otis Orchards High would combine geographically with WV students to create East Valley in the early ‘60s.

Riding in jammed traffic from Pines to Post Falls for some reason

brought back sporting memories when I was a child and sometimes tagged along to games with my dad. I became hooked.

I can still vision Duane Ranniger racing down the football field where Greenacres Middle School is today -- the jersey tail flapping behind making him look even faster. The three-sport star would go on to play basketball at Washington State and coach basketball at WV. The apple doesn’t fall from the tree. Like his dad, Steve Ranniger was a three-sport U-Hi star, going on to play basketball at Oregon. He was joined at U-Hi by Bill Ames III, whose grandfather was a CV principal and dad and uncle were Bears athletes. Bill junior was coach and activities coordinator at U-Hi. His son would play football at the University of Washington.

Guys like Jim Hepton and Ed Luedtke were WV superstars back in the day. The former played

FREE Activities & Events September 27, 2019 – 4:00pm-7:00pm

Join us at HUB Sports Center with activities for the entire family!

at WSU; the latter was a pro baseball pitcher. Players like those were bigger-than-life to a small youngster.

I’ve been asked after living here since 1948 and spending 40plus years as a prep sportswriter who the best Valley athlete was.

But the names, like the bumper-tobumper traffic, crowd my brain.

The number of school sports offered has nearly quadrupled.

Women have taken their place beside the men. There have been innumerable state championship teams and college standout individuals to count. Just a couple examples are the Hull sisters from Central Valley’s dominant girls basketball program who are at Stanford. They are third generation Bear collegians. EV’s Mike Shill shattered state track weights records and stood out on his father Bob’s football teams.

U-Hi pole vaulting standout Brad Walker holds the world’s eighth-

See FINAL POINT, Page 22

22 • SEPTEMBER 2019

The Current

College teams reinforcing with Valley talent

By Steve Christilaw Current Contributor Former West Valley standout Connor Whitney, son of the Eagles head coach, Craig Whitney, is ready to improve on a very good freshman season at Idaho.

The tight end played in all 11 games in his first season in Moscow, primarily on special teams, starting two. He was fifth on the team with 13 catches for 135 yards and a touchdown. He also returned a blocked punt for a special teams touchdown.

Whitney’s former high school teammate, Tevin Duke, has played in each of the 23 games the team has played in his first two seasons as a defensive back with the Vandals. He got his first career start against Eastern Washington a year ago.

Hunter Chodorowski, a freshman from Central Valley, will look for playing time at running back while William Campbell, a 2019 Freeman graduate, will look reps as a wide receiver.

Looking for playing time along the defensive line is redshirt freshman Correy Quinn, now a 6-feet-2, 239 pounder from Central Valley. *** Eastern Washington finished its season last year in the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision championship game, and the Eagles are in the process of finding replacements for 25 departed seniors. Looking to fill those openings will be as many as 20 redshirt freshmen.

The Eagles’ offensive line is well stocked with returning players, including two sixthyear-senior starters in AllAmerica center Spencer Blackburn and All-Big Sky right

guard Kaleb Lavao and fifthyear All-Big-Sky left tackle Chris Schlichting. Add to that mix is Tristen Taylor, a 2017 All-BigSky honorable mention who went down with a knee injury in the third game last season.

Fifth-year senior Will Gram is the favorite to win the fifth starting spot on the offensive line, replacing CV grad Beau Byus, who graduated after last year’s title game.

Central Valley redshirt freshman Aaron Williams (66, 250) is in the mix for a backup slot after sitting out his first season in Cheney. *** Whitworth won the Northwest Conference title and did not lose a game until the first round of the NCAA Division III playoffs last year and will look to build on last season’s success.

To make the Buc’s trademark offense work coach Rod Sandberg must find replacements for two graduated starters on an offensive line that returns three seniors, including former Gonzaga Prep center Dylan McGillin. Six true freshmen will be amongst the potential replacements, with two Spokane Valley true freshmen looking to break onto the Pirates’ depth chart this season. Triston Kelley (6-2, 308, CV) and Luke Davis, freshman (5-11, 231, University). *** Former East Valley standout Rodrick Fisher is making progress in his efforts to break into the receiver rotation in Mike Leach’s Air Raid offense at Washington State.

Now a second-year freshman, Fisher starts the season behind Tay Martin and Calvin Jackson Jr. at the X receiver spot.

With Martin sitting out the first scrimmage, Fisher pulled in six catches, four for touchdowns from three different quarterbacks.

Leach singled out Fisher’s performance, noting that he just needs to work on his consistency. Outside receivers coach Steve Spurrier Jr. said he was interested in seeing how much Fisher improves and said he would see playing time this season. *** Former West Valley and Colorado standout linebacker Ty Gregorak begins his first fall without a whistle around his neck. After 15 seasons as an assistant coach at both Montana and Montana State, the last three as the Bobcats’ defensive coordinator, Gregorak and head coach Jeff Choate parted ways in January.

Gregorak, 40, said he was offered other coaching opportunities, but he’s opted to take a job as a medical equipment sales representative and spend more time with his three children.

Former West Valley harrier Jacob Nicholson will attempt to improve on a sophomore cross country season at Washington State that saw him run in two events for the Cougars, including a 26th place finish in the Cougar Classic. Nicholson won eight varsity letters for the Eagles, four in cross country and four in track. Former WV teammate Shaunie Kopcyznski is a freshman for the Cougar women.

Eastern Washington women’s soccer coach Chuck Bodnar expects former Central Valley standout Kaelyn Barnes to push for more playing time in her sophomore season. In her first season for the Eagles Barnes appeared in 14 games and made two starts (against Northern Colorado and Idaho), playing a total of 258 minutes.

FINAL POINT

Continued from page 21 best height.

But two who hold a soft spot in my memory stand out despite being troubled souls. Who knows how far Gary Martz and John Chamberlin might have gone?

In 1968-69, Martz quarterbacked West Valley to a Border League championship (although East Valley did shock the Eagles in the next-to-last game of the season).

I learned only recently my future boss and then-Knights student, Jeff Jordan, and a friend painted graffiti at their school to fire up the Knights’ football players.

Martz led the Eagles to a surprising trip to the big school state basketball tournament regionals. They knocked off five of six City League schools that winter, with Martz averaging some 17 points per game. He capped his WV career winning the district baseball tournament and upset City League champion Rogers.

Martz would have a professional baseball stint, but his volatility became his downfall.

Chamberlin was also a standout three-sport, three-year varsity athlete from 1983-85, years that produced arguably the best overall group of bigtime athletes at all schools in Valley history.

They were also hard-living.

U-Hi finished third and fourth at state, and basketball was not necessarily his forte. What stands out in my mind today was a seemingly impossible one-handed catch of a deflected pass that continued U-Hi’s road to state.

Football was Chamberlin’s sport.

He played briefly at Arizona State, but who knows how far football could have taken. Hard living took its toll. He died approaching age 40.

Maybe life in the slow lane isn’t so bad.

Final Point columnist Mike Vlahovich spent more than four decades covering prep sports in the greater Spokane Valley.

The Current

LIBRARY

Civic learning at the library

By Dana Mannino, librarian Spokane County Library District

I hear a phrase uttered at the Thanksgiving dinner table at least once each year: “Kids these day, they have no idea how the government works!”

But that’s not the only place I’ve heard it. Last spring, our librarians asked people what kind of a community they wanted to live in.

One thing I heard often was “I want a community where I can be part of the decision making process. Right now, I’m not.” There could be lots of reasons people might feel this way.

Our government is pretty complex.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To participate, people have to know how within that complexity.

Enter the library. Supporting an informed electorate is one of the reasons libraries exist. At the library, your income level doesn’t factor into your access to authoritative information — information you might use to vote! This fall, we have some programs for learning about the democratic process and how to participate in it. Here’s a rundown!

Apps for back to school success

By Gwendolyn Haley, Public Services Manager Spokane County Library District

Here it is the first full week of August and all the big box stores have their back-to-school displays up and ready. And the supply lists are out from the schools. So, now seems like the perfect time to remind everyone (including you!) that one of the most essential school supplies is already in your wallet or on your key chain.

Your library card!

No matter the age of your student, your library card can help them make the grade. Get homework help, research topics, and tackle test preparation, all at your fingertips on your phone or tablet when you download these apps from the library at www.scld.org/apps.

Need a book for class? “Libby from Overdrive” is an eBook reader

Poster Display: Learn about how our federal, state and local governments work in a poster display at Spokane Valley Library.

Each poster describes a branch of government and the decisions that branch makes. The posters list practical examples of how each branch may impact you and share how you can be part of the decisionmaking process. The library will have blank post cards and writing materials so that you can contact your elected officials and tell them what’s on your mind. This display will be at Spokane Valley Library throughout the month of September.

Short Course on Urban Planning: When librarians interviewed Spokane Valley residents, we heard concerns about the community’s rapid growth. To address this, we are partnering with the City of Spokane Valley to bring the Planning Association of Washington’s “Short Course on Urban Planning” to Spokane Valley Library on October 2 at 6pm. In this 3-hour workshop, a panel of experts will discuss how local planning decisions are made and how average citizens can be and audiobook player. You can checkout fiction and nonfiction titles, and manage your digital checkouts.

Has a geometry problem got you stumped? With “HelpNow powered

by Brainfuse,” you can get access to live online tutors every day, submit questions, access study resources, and track assignments. Along with guidance in the writing lab, you’ll find help and flash cards for math, geography, history, science, and more.

Have you forgotten everything from first year Spanish? Use “Pronunciator” to review or learn a new language. This language learning app features over 80 languages and English-as-a-Second-Language courses for 50 non-English languages.

Need to research a topic? “Access My Library” gives you access to online resources, including Biography in Context, Science in Context, and Opposing Viewpoints in Context, without logging in. Once you choose your library in the app, just select the “Databases” option at the bottom of the app and that research paper is now a breeze.

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 23

part of that process.

Presidential Portrait Exhibit by John Thamm: The library loves to collaborate with local artists. This fall we share an exhibit of paintings of all 45 presidents, painted by Valley native and artist John Thamm.

Previously, John painted a series of portraits of veterans. His complete set of portraits of U.S. presidents will be on display throughout our libraries in the District, October 16– November 16. So you can see a few paintings at each location – see if you can visit them all!

National Voter Registration Day: Every day is voter registration day at the library. We have registration forms on hand, and staff are happy to answer questions about filling them out. However, it’s good to take a specific day to celebrate the privilege of voting. On September 24, which is National Voter Registration Day, Spokane Valley Library hosts volunteers who are enthusiastic about voting and will assist with voter registration. If you like to volunteer, you’re invited to come to our training session at Spokane Valley Library on Saturday, September 14, from 2–3pm.

Let’s get curious!

It’s never too early to start thinking about what you’ll be doing after you graduate. The Testing & Education Resource Center, available within the “Access My Library” app, provides access to study guides, practice tests for the SAT, and scholarship searches.

For younger students, the “Tumblebooks” app has animated picture books with sound and narration for read-along practice.

Borrow popular movies, music, audiobooks, and television shows to stream instantly using “Hoopla Digital”, with automatic returns. The Hoopla app has Kids Mode, available in the settings, which when selected will only show content that has been deemed suitable for kids up to 12 years old.

Read and download digital copies of your favorite magazines directly from “RBdigital.” When you filter by “Children” using Advanced Search, you’ll see digital versions of Highlights, National Geographic Kids, and others.

If you don’t have a library card for Spokane County Library District, it’s easy to get one. Register online at

For kids ages 4–8 & their adults

© Houghton Mifflin

Curiosity Day Celebrate Curious George’s birthday!

Explore magnets, water, shadows, our five senses, & more to help us foster natural curiosity

OTIS ORCHARDS LIBRARY Wednesday, Sep 18, 3:30–5pm ARGONNE LIBRARY Friday, Sep 20, 4–5pm SPOKANE VALLEY LIBRARY Saturday, Sep 28, 10:30–11:30am

www.scld.org www.scld.org/get-library-card and start getting these educational apps at no-cost for your students.

24 • SEPTEMBER 2019

The Current

Millwood parcel change approved

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“I think the planning commission did a great job sorting through everything,” Council Member Andy Van Hees said. “They made a good recommendation.”

The vote to approve the planning commission’s recommendation was unanimous.

In other business, the council accepted bids to complete two upcoming construction projects.

The city’s tennis and basketball courts will be resurfaced for nearly $30,000, and about $16,000 will be spent to remodel the basement of city hall to add an office and make security and ADA improvements. Both projects are expected to begin in September.

The City Hall project will take the basement “from the 1950s to the 21st Century,” said Public Works Director Paul Allen.

The council also voted to approve the mayor’s selection of Connie Smith to fill a vacant planning commission seat.

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With little discussion, the Millwood City Council approved a planning commission recommendation to change the Comprehensive Plan designation on two riverfront parcels of land during the August council meeting.

The proposal by the city to change the designation of the two vacant lots next to 8319 E. South Riverway from residential to public reserve stirred up a lot of opposition in the community. Multiple people who testified before the planning commission said the lots are too small and the street too narrow to accommodate a public park, which would not fit in with the residential neighborhood surrounding it.

City officials have said repeatedly that there are no plans to do anything with the property, and the land will have to be rezoned before

any project can be completed.

“It’s just a Comprehensive Plan designation,” said City Clerk Christina Janssen. “No zoning change at this time.”

Several who testified before the planning commission referred to an email sent by city clerk Tom Richardson to the Spokane Conservation District in 2016 asking for money to help buy the parcels so the city could put in a park.

Richardson also attached a twopage proposal for a South Riverway Park on the property.

“The city envisions a small paved parking lot for five vehicles, a picnic area, possibly a restroom, viewing platform, canoe/kayak launching system and a raised stairway down to the water,” the proposal reads.

As part of the Comprehensive Plan change request, the city prepared an environmental

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By Nina Culver Current Contributor

Determination of Non-Significance which some have criticized as inadequate.

Resident Jay Molitor urged the council to consider their fiduciary duty before voting, noting that the land is on the extreme western edge of the city limits and not centrally located.

“The zoning change is not in the best interest of all Millwood,” he said. “It only benefits a few.”

The City Council was originally set to consider the Comprehensive Plan amendment at the July meeting, but several council members asked for more time to read the voluminous public comments the city received on the issue. None of the public’s concerns were mentioned during the August meeting, and none of the council members had questions. There was little discussion.

Council Member Dan Sander reiterated the message that nothing was planned for the land.

“We have no concrete plans for the property at this time,” he

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SEPTEMBER 2019 • 25

The Current

River City opens second location in Valley

By Josh Johnson Current Contributor

River City Pizza is aiming for another slice of the greater Spokane Valley pizza market.

The longtime Otis Orchards establishment opened a second location Aug. 19 at 17018 E. Sprague Ave. in Spokane Valley, where Sprague intersects with Flora.

Jacqueline Barnard, who purchased River City in 2016 along with her husband Phillip, said the second location takes up 1,250 square feet of a new building developed by Bo Chalich and Scott Conant. River City celebrated a joint grand opening with neighbor Genus Brewing & Supply Aug. 24, and the building has space available for a future third tenant. Barnard said that while Genus doesn’t allow outside food to be brought in, an exception has been made for the neighboring pizza place. What’s more, although the carryout and delivery establishment will continue its model to not have indoor dining, River City Pizza shares an 1,100-square foot patio with Genus to provide outdoor seating.

“It will be nice for the summer time to have a place for your family to come and sit down and have pizza and a beer and just hang out,” Barnard said.

Founded in 1998, River City Pizza was planning to close in 2016 when Barnard called the previous owners to talk about a sale. An experienced business owner, Barnard said she knew nothing about pizza at the time, but believed in the product and was excited about the possibility of building and working with a team in that industry.

“It’s all about having the right people working for you,” Barnard said. “When I hired Sarah, that was when I really got serious about adding another location.”

Sarah Putnam manages the Otis Orchards location, and Barnard says she operates it like a “well-oiled machine.” One of the things she is most looking forward to in the new location is building the same thing with another group of employees.

“It is so important to me that my employees are happy and love working at the pizza place,” Barnard said. “I very intentionally build an

environment that people want to work in because that business aspect is what brings me the most joy.”

Barnard praised Putnam for her community mindedness, including launching River City’s “Random Act of Pizza” movement, where the business delivers free pizza to community organizations and neighbors “just because.”

The Otis Orchards location is also well ingrained in the East Valley community, including supporting school activities, particularly as many River City employees are East Valley High School students.

Barnard, who lives in Liberty Lake, said she hopes to replicate that in the greater Central Valley community of her new location.

She also anticipates an uptick in business given the population density of the surrounding area.

“Once this location is really up and going, we probably are going to be twice as busy, just based on sheer numbers,” Barnard said.

She also anticipates faster deliveries given the expanded territory covered by the new location. The new location also introduced “pizza by the slice” from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. to serve the nearby business community.

She said the other secret to success beyond the great team of employees is simple: “Our pizza tastes so good.”

She said the “freshness aspect” of doing everything from scratch each day, all the way down to grating the cheese from 5-pound blocks, makes the difference.

Barnard hopes the second location builds into the possibility of even more locations down the road,

emphasizing this is an expansion, not a move.

“We are not leaving Otis; this is a second full-time location,” she said.

“We plan to stay in Otis forever. Our lease is actually up in September, and I’ve already talked about signing a 10-year lease, so we’re not planning on leaving.”

Photo by Josh Johnson Jacqueline and Phillip Barnard pose during construction of the second location for their River City Pizza business at 17018 E. Sprague Ave. The new location opened Aug. 19.

FOR MORE

River City Pizza opened Aug. 19 at 17018 E. Sprague Ave. The phone number is 255-7660, and the website is rivercitypizza.com.

TOTAL INDOOR COMFORT ...WE DO IT ALL!

Submitted photo Owner Jacqueline Barnard said her favorite part of the River City Pizza business is the team of employees she works with.

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26 • SEPTEMBER 2019

The Current

Valley Chamber

Membership

CONNECT.

EMPOWER.

INNOVATE.

Why Join the Chamber?

Our Vision We are the unifying business force dedicated to community vitality and economic prosperity for the Greater Spokane Valley.

Membership Benefits Regardless of the size or type of business, Chamber membership provides an affective means to network with business leaders, share ideas and receive valuable insights on common business challenges. Our membership provides: - Opportunity to collaborate and network - Members-only discounts - Referrals to member businesses - Sponsorship and advertising opportunities Advocacy Programs We advocate for public policy changes and programs that stimulate and sustain growth for business. Our Government Action Committee consistently reaches out to elected officials at all levels of government to keep you informed on the latest developments.

Upcoming Events -Let Talk Shop Wed., Aug 21 -After 5 Networking Event at Washington Trust Bank Wed., Aug 28 -Transportation Committee Thurs., Aug 29 -Government Action Mon., Sept 9 -Business Connections Fri., Sept. 20th

Business Droplets Gurtel selected as fair director

Local wine recognized nationally

Erin Gurtel has officially been named director of the Spokane County Fair and Expo.

Originally from Black Diamond, Wash., Gurtel’s experience in fair management dates back 14 years with her role serving as the marketing/sales manager for the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center.

Gurtel was previously employed with the Downtown Spokane Partnership and prior work included the organization of major festivals in the Seattle area, including Bumbershoot, Fremont Fair and a number of other major Seattle area festivals.

“The Spokane County Fair & Expo Center is an important fixture in the community, and I am looking forward to continuing my work with our staff and partners to build on our success and plan for the future,” Gurtel said. “It is my goal to make sure we are around for a long time, providing a showplace for the community.”

Liberty Lake Wine Cellars 2016 Reserve Syrah was awarded the top score among all Washington wines reviewed in the September issue of Wine Spectator, a popular industry periodical with a circulation of 400,000.

Unlike many other competitions and review forums, Wine Spectator does not accept unsolicited entries, and only upon their request is a winery allowed to submit wines for review. Their request only came after the 16’ Reserve Syrah was awarded a 90 (out of 100) rating by Sean Sullivan of Wine Enthusiast, another industry periodical known for wine reviews.

The grapes for this wine were the first harvested for the 2016 vintage, which was also the first year that Mark and Sarah Lathrop took over Liberty Lake Wine Cellars as the new owners. This would make the 16’ Syrah Reserve the first wine produced by the new owners and

Join us as we discuss mental health in the work place and how it impacts business.

Register online at spokanevalleychamber.org

The Network The Network allows professionals to meet twice per month in a networking environment to exchange leads and business refers. It is intended to be a tool for members to cultivate their business.

Current Groups: The East Valley Network The Greater Valley Network The Spokane Network The Liberty Lake Network The South Hill Network

1421 N. Meadowwood Ln. Liberty Lake, WA 99019 | 509-924-4994 | www.spokanevalleychamber.org

2019 Friday, September 13, 2019 Opportunity Presbyterian Church 202 North Pines, Spokane Valley 2pm-6pm Presented by The Greater Valley Support Network and Spokane Valley Partners

A Free Community Services Event Available Services Will Include Free Meal Youth Sports Physicals Vision & Dental Screenings Haircuts Warrant Fest DSHS Services Health & Wellness Services Personal Care Items Family & Youth Services Veteran Services Employment Services Housing Services Senior Services . . . and much more!

The Gr

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 27

The Current

winemakers from start to finish.

“A rating as high as this one is a rare occurrence and shows that we are doing things the right way. The recognition is definitely a morale boost as we go into our biggest harvest yet,” Mark Lathrop said.

The critically acclaimed 16’ vintage sold out within the week of the rating announcement by Wine Spectator.

Numerica Challenge results in donation to Vanessa Behan Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery announced last month the Numerica Cash for Kids Challenge resulted in a total of $21,449.94 raised by the community for Vanessa Behan.

However, Numerica went into the challenge committing to up to $100,000 in matching support, but decided to stick to that number, meaning a total of $121,449.94 for the nonprofit.

“Vanessa Behan is beyond grateful to not only Numerica Credit Union but our generous community of supporters for this amazing investment,” Executive Director Amy Knapton Vega said. “These funds will not only help Vanessa Behan meet their projected timeline of opening their new home by 2020, but most importantly will allow Vanessa Behan to triple the number of children and families served.”

Folds of Honor Patriot Golf Day Tournament Friday, September 13, 1-7 pm MeadowWood Golf Course 24501 E. Valleyway, Liberty Lake

Shotgun Start, 1:00 pm Dinner to follow Awards will be presented to top teams and individuals for long drive and close-to-the-pin Various sponsor levels Registration includes green fees, cart and dinner: $500 per team or $125 per individual BEHIND EVERY WAVING FLAG, THERE ARE THOUSANDS FOLDED

Folds of Honor provides educational scholarships for the children and spouses of military men and women killed or disabled in service to America. Since 2007, Patriot Golf Day has been our number one source of financial support.

Help us continue to change lives through the game of golf by participating in your courses’ Patriot Golf Day.

MultiCare, CVSD recognized among ‘Best Employers’ Forbes announced recently that MultiCare has been included on its first “America’s Best Employers

By State” list.

Thirty-six employers were recognized for Washington.

Tacoma-based MultiCare, which operates Valley Hospital, was 12th.

The only other local employer to be recognized was Central Valley School District, which landed 34th on the list.

Call us today to register your team: Craig Whiting at (509)869-8650 or Duane Tait at (509)280-2797 Mulitple Sponsorship Opportunities available! Call us today!

28 • SEPTEMBER 2019

The Current

The Neighborhood Sound Want to share a special moment or other thought on the bulletin board? Send them to publisher@valleycurrent.com

Contributed photos Millwood Daze 2019 was held August 24th and included a pancake breakfast, vendors, dance all day event, as well as many other festivities.

Contributed phot os Republicans of Spokane County 10 Annual Boat Crui th se included guest sp eaker Mark “Oz” Geist .

Photos c o 2019 Fair ntributed by the SouthEa Royalty. st County

Contributed by East Valley School District Thank you to all of the vendors who supported East Valley’s Back to School Fair on Saturday at East Valley Middle School. We would not be able to do this without your support!

Fair

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 29

The Current

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Correction

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The name of a co-chair of MultiSport Day was incorrect in the August story, “Multi-Sport Day caps Valleyfest weekend.” The correct name is Katrina Nebel.

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ON THAT NOTE

Cornhole gaining popularity locally Local group and tournament reflect growing interest

By Steve Christilaw Current Contributor

It’s a sport guaranteed to evoke a snicker from the uninitiated who first hear of it.

In some places it goes by other names – bean bag and sack toss to name a few – but it’s gaining traction as a competitive sport under the name “Cornhole.”

“The popularity of the game has just grown exponentially over the last three or four years,” local player Nick Kovalenko said. “You can even see it on ESPN now.”

And the popularity has reached the greater Spokane Valley. A group called Spokane Cornhole (led in part

by Spokane Valley brothers Eli and Austin Snavely) filed into Players and Spectators most Wednesdays

during the indoor season last fall, winter and spring. Then on Aug. 24, popular Liberty Lake nonprofit Friends of Pavillion Park and the HUB Sports Center staged a tournament at the new Orchard Park. The winners’ purse in the open division is a cool $1,000.

Alongside the Snavely brothers, Kovalenko and his girlfriend, Gail Wright, are among the leaders of the Spokane Cornhole group.

Kovalenko and Wright developed a passion for the game soon after they first met five years ago.

“When we started dating, she was living in Sandpoint, Idaho,” he explained. “We played it with her family and friends, and it was fun.

In Sandpoint some of the beer halls started having tournaments, and we

Submitted photo Shannon McNeil watches the flight of his toss while opponent Emily Perez looks on at a recent event promoting the Liberty Lake Throw Down, an Aug. 24 cornhole tournament. Matching a national trend, the sport of cornhole has grown in popularity in the greater Spokane Valley.

went up there to check them out. We didn’t really know anything about it, and I don’t remember seeing it anywhere.

“One of the things I like about it is that literally anyone can do it.

Young or old. Short or tall. Anyone can get good at it. All you have to do is practice.”

Originally called “Parlor Quoits” in Heyliger de Windt’s 1883 patent, the game has changed little. The original holes in the game board were square while the modern board features round holes.

The game itself is simple: toss a beanbag through the hole at the top of slanted game board set approximately 30 feet away, and earn three points. Beyond that, tactics and strategies have grown and evolved.

For example, the preferred bean bag for professional cornhole players is double sided, one sticky and the other slick. The sticky side allows players to set above or below the hole to either aid or hinder scoring.

“The fun thing about it is that it’s a very social game,” Kovalenko said.

“It really is a great way to get to know your neighbor if you’re playing in your backyard.”

Even in a tournament there’s plenty of time to laugh and joke with teammates and opponents alike.

It’s also not prohibitively expensive to get into the game.

A working carpenter, Kovalenko crafted his own set of game boards and Wright stitched together bags.

Others who are not as crafty can pick up a game set for $200 to $300.

“That’s the cool thing about it,” he said. “I was able to do it inexpensively, but once you have your boards and bags, there’s nothing else you need except practice.”

From its humble beginnings, the popular lawn game has officially left the backyard and the local park and headed for the big time.

Tournaments have drawn big numbers of players by offering prize money that reach $1,000 locally and even more in bigger venues.

“Gail and I have driven down to Reno for tournaments a few times and we’ve played on the other side of the mountains,” Kovalenko said.

“We’ve even been to Las Vegas a time or two.”

SEPTEMBER 2019 • 31

And now the professional American Cornhole League is part of the ESPN lineup.

“Those guys are really good,” Kovalenko said. “When they throw it, it goes in the hole whenever they want. The level of play locally isn’t there yet, but it keeps getting better and it will get there.”

Sandpoint’s tournament is expecting big numbers, and the Liberty Lake Throw Down (the name of the Friends of Pavillion Park tournament) fielded dozens of teams in three divisions.

“Gail and I play a lot, and we used to be able to count on at least finishing in the top three at a given tournament,” Kovalenko said. “Not any more. The level of competition has been getting better and better.”

Meanwhile, Kovalenko and Wright have been working to get a local league off the ground.

“In November of 2017 we rented a gym, Grant Elementary, and we tried to do a league,” he explained.

“What we discovered is that before you can have a league, you have to have players. Since then we’ve put a lot of effort into recruiting players.”

It took a while, but the couple finally recruited the Snavely brothers, who set to work building the game in Spokane Valley.

“One of the problems we’ve had in getting a spot to have a league is finding a place that has enough space for us to play,” Kovalenko said. “(The Snavely brothers) are the ones who found a spot at Players and Spectators in the Valley.”

The league played on Wednesday nights over the winter. At first, players were hit-and-miss each week, making a set number of teams a bit of a challenge. Instead, they did a blind draw for partners at the start of play each week.

More leagues are starting, Kovalenko said, and new players are not only welcome, they are very much sought after. Tournaments like the Liberty Lake Throw Down are a good way to get a feel for what the game is all about.

Kovalenko, Wright and Austin Snavely operate a Facebook page, Spokane Cornhole, that provides information about leagues and upcoming tournaments as well as highlight videos from ESPN’s telecasts.

32 • SEPTEMBER 2019

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