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• SEPTEMBER 2020

The Current

RIVER CROSSING

Consistent Counsel –

Driskell approaches decade as city attorney

By Craig Howard

Current Contributing Editor

Cary Driskell took up basketball when he was 25 and still plays regularly as he approaches middle age.

Honing his crossover dribble was not the only aspect of Driskell’s life that took some time. The longtime Spokane Valley city attorney was also a late-developer when it came to achievement in the classroom.

His freshman year at the University of Idaho – where his parents both worked – was not one for the academic record books.

internship at McBride & McKinney while at GU and latched on with Dorn & O’Brien after earning his degree and passing the bar.

Six years at Trunkenbolz & Rohr followed where Driskell practiced land use development and business litigation.

Driskell was working as an assistant public defender with Spokane County when the prospect of Spokane Valley incorporation began swirling again. Going back to 1990, four attempts at Valley cityhood had failed at the ballot.

This time, longtime Valleyites like Ed Mertens, Jayne Singleton, Raymond Hansen, Terry Lynch and others headed up an enthusiastic campaign to incorporate. Driskell, who had lived in the Valley with his family since 1992, signed on to help with legal aspects of the effort.

“I wasn’t involved with the earlier

efforts to incorporate,” Driskell said. “For this one, I was asked to be volunteer legal counsel. There were issues with the city of Spokane trying to block incorporation of the Yardley area which represented a lot of revenue.”

On May 21, 2002, the vote to approve Valley incorporation narrowly passed by a margin of 51.3 percent. Driskell found himself in the unique position of working for Spokane County – which some predicted would lose up to 40 percent of its tax revenue with the Valley’s departure – while supporting the formation of the state’s newest municipality. It marked the first incorporation in the region since Airway Heights in 1955.

Driskell helped with a transition committee after the vote passed, laying the groundwork for his eventual hiring as Spokane Valley’s

“I remember having no idea why I was going to college,” said Driskell who eventually transferred to Boise State.

By the time he arrived at Boise State, Driskell was ready to turn things around. His last three years of school he earned all A’s.

Driskell recently celebrated his 31st wedding anniversary with Joni, a registered nurse. The couple is proud parents of three children.

When not jotting on his legal pad, Driskell savors the outdoors and tinkering with his jump shot.

Q: You found your stride academically a little later than many would expect. What do you think was the key to getting on the right track with your studies?

Q: If someone would have told you in high school that you’d wind up as a lawyer, how would you have responded?

“I was more self-directed,” he said. “I knew I needed to work a lot harder than I’d been working. I understood I was working more for the future.”

Driskell was able to secure an

Driskell has a full docket in his role, overseeing the myriad of agreements essential to Spokane Valley’s standing as a contract city.

He also advises the city manager, municipal staff and City Council on policy options and best approaches while assisting all city departments in areas of procedures and operations.

A: I think the biggest thing for me was having to work some jobs that were very physically hard, like replacing rail line at MorrisonKnudson in the desert summer heat of Boise, road construction in Boise, delivering furniture etc. A lot of the guys I worked with were breaking down by 45. I didn’t want to be that way. I think I learned from that.

And more importantly, I met my future wife, which made me want to be better, to do better.

Driskell took a year off school after his first year on campus in Moscow, a town he had grown up in. He worked at McDonald’s for a time, a job that hearkened back to work he had done while in high school as a dishwasher and as a skating rink deejay.

Driskell met his future wife Joni when both were students in Boise.

The couple married in 1989 when he was 24. A history/political science major, Driskell took the LSAT at the start of his senior year and, in December 1990, began applying to law schools. Eventually, he picked Gonzaga and was accepted – although he initially wasn’t certain what type of law to pursue.

deputy city attorney in April 2003.

He later served as interim city attorney before being hired as city attorney in 2011. He is currently Spokane Valley’s longest tenured employee.

A: I would have been pretty surprised, for sure. We had some family friends who were attorneys as I grew up and they always impressed me with how well they could handle themselves in any discussion. I would not have believed I would be anything as successful as what I viewed attorneys to be.

Contributed photo Cary Driskell has worked for the city of Spokane Valley since 2003 and served as city attorney since 2011. The Clarkston native is a graduate of Boise State University and Gonzaga Law School.

Q: Why was Gonzaga Law School a good fit for you after your undergraduate degree?

A: I liked the focus on community See DRISKELL, Page 4

SEPTEMBER 2020 • 3

The Current

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• SEPTEMBER 2020

DRISKELL

Continued from page 2 and giving back to your community that provided the opportunity to become successful.

After I got there, I found there to be a really tremendous sense of togetherness at the school and I am in touch with a number of my former classmates.

Q: How aware were you of the history of Valley incorporation efforts before you joined the movement that eventually passed?

A: Joni and I had moved from Brownes Addition to just east of Millwood after my first year of law school. While Brownes Addition has some really cool things happening now, in 1991 it was more than a little crazy. After moving to the Valley, I was vaguely aware of the prior failed incorporation efforts but did not understand why residents were so eager to begin their own story.

Q: Why did you believe it made sense for the Valley to form its own city? And have those beliefs come to fruition?

A: Valley residents were paying higher taxes than they should have been considering the level of service

provided by Spokane County to that point. Law enforcement was fine, but snow plowing was really minimal, very few sidewalks and there were a lot of really junky residential lots filled with years of trash, old machinery and dead cars. These had such a negative effect on property values. We have been extraordinarily successful in many ways including financially, by making neighborhoods cleaner and by acquiring a lot more park land, creating more parks and recreational opportunities for our people.

Q: You climbed the ladder from deputy city attorney to acting city attorney and eventually city attorney in June 2011. Was that always the goal?

A: After the successful vote to form the city on May 21, 2002, I had a vague realization I wanted to continue to be part of this new creation, to help it along from a staff standpoint to try to make it successful. Once I was deputy city attorney, I definitely wanted to be the city attorney. I have been very fortunate to work with and for some really smart and dedicated municipal people.

Former City

Attorney Mike Connelly taught me a fair amount about the law but more about how to understand people and how to effectively help people solve problems. For city staff, solving problems is really cool because that usually means we are finding ways to make our community a better place to live. Former City Manager Dave Mercier really helped guide me through the early years and was a really steady hand in the city’s first years as well. Former City Manager Mike Jackson was interested in knowing everything that was going on and challenged our office in good ways. Current City Manager Mark Calhoun is just fantastic about using the strengths of various staff members. I have really loved working for all three of them, just in different ways.

Q: How have you seen the city’s image and identity evolve in the time you’ve been an employee and resident?

A: I think the city’s place in the region is becoming clearer all the time as a city that tries to do things the right way. We really try to be analytical when we go about things to try to make sure we are looking at options for how service will be best provided for the cost. Cost isn’t everything, but it is always at the forefront in our analysis. Every version of City Council in my 17 plus years have really kept this at the forefront, providing great stability for the city structure.

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Q: Let’s say you are getting close to retirement years from now and are asked to be part of the committee to hire your successor.

What would you say are some of the key traits to being a good city attorney?

A: I think there are a couple of important traits. You must have

House Calls Available Reasonable Flat Fees

Jen Ballantyne Owner, Attorney

a strong ability to communicate openly with staff and council. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of having very straightforward discussions with people about hard subjects. This is key though as the first step to effective problem identification, analysis and ultimately problem solving. I think it is also important to not take yourself very seriously. I also think if you don’t actually enjoy what you are doing, you should find a different area of law to practice.

Anyway, we already have a great replacement lined up in Deputy City Attorney Erik Lamb, who is just a great municipal attorney and smarter than me to boot. Best dad jokes in the business.

Q: Finally, the outdoors seems to be an important part of your life.

Besides giving you the opportunity to get out of the office and replace your briefcase with a backpack, why do you enjoy your respites in nature?

A: I really enjoy working really hard to climb up into a high mountain lake and camp with my kids and friends. The shared experience of that hard work with beautiful wild areas as the payoff is unbeatable. Introducing friends to the Eagle Cap Wilderness near Joseph, Oregon, or the Seven Devils near Riggins, Idaho, or my kids to the North Cascades, just can’t be beat. In early August, I hiked into Ice Lake in the Eagle Cap with my two boys Dane and Cooper, Aaron Clary (city stormwater engineer) and his son Sam, and my stepdad Tom von Alten. Nine miles in with 4,000 feet elevation gain, with 2,000 feet more the next day to climb Matterhorn Peak, which is just shy of 10,000 feet (where the picture accompanying this article is from).

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The Current

SEPTEMBER 2020 • 5

NEWS

SVFD Report – August 2020 Current News sources

Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) crews responded to a total of 1775 emergency calls from July 15 – Aug 15, 2020.

By the numbers: • Emergency Medical Services 1381 • Fires 127 • Motor Vehicle Accidents 100 • Building Alarms 72 • Dispatched and cancelled enroute 38 • Service Calls 34 • Hazardous Materials 17 • Vehicle Fires 10 • Auto vs Pedestrian 5 • Technical Rescue 1 Of Note: • Burn Restrictions continue to be in place. Visit spokanevalleyfire.com for more information or call 509.928.1700 or visit https://spokanecleanair.org/ burning • Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) has hired 14 new Firefighters.

The SVFD new recruits began their Fire Academy this week Monday, August 3. Five of the recruits will graduate from the Fire Academy in September.

Nine recruits will go to North Bend for additional training that will continue through December.

• On behalf of Chief Collins, please welcome Chaplain Aaron McNally, to Spokane Valley Fire Department. Chaplain McNally is a local Volunteer Firefighter, serves as a Fire Chaplain, and is the Lead Chaplain of the Inland Northwest Fire Chaplains.

Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to three separate brush fires. Valley Brush 10 was assisting Spokane County Fire District 8 with a brush fire near Highway 27 and Jackson Road. Additional crews were responding to a call to investigate smoke in the area of Appleway and Vista Road where a column of smoke had been seen. Crews All three of the fires above Appleway Avenue were about 100 feet apart running west to east. A total of a 1/2 acre was burned.

With an aggressive attack the Appleway fire was extinguished within an hour. The fire on Dishman and 8th was extinguished in less than an hour.

Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) units were dispatched at 10:30 for a report of a structure fire in the 11100 block of E. Empire Ave. The homeowner called 911 to report their detached shop was on fire.

Firefighters arrived within five

and a half minutes to find a large shed fully engulfed in fire, in between two residential homes, with fire beginning to spread to the roofline of a second shop. Access to the fire was limited by a long driveway, and crews immediately deployed a ‘driveway lay’ of water supply hose to minimize vehicle traffic down the narrow access. This tactic involves leaving an empty hose end at the street before continuing down the narrow access, while a second engine brings a hydrant line to connect the two, getting hydrant water to the ‘attack’ fire engine down a long driveway.

The fire was initially declared defensive in nature, with crews pulling a 500gal hoseline from Engine 2 for fire attack. Additional firefighters began fighting the fire that had spread to the second shop using additional hoses.

Several surrounding buildings, cars, and a motorhome were threatened, but quick hose work and exposure protection hoses prevented further spread. There were no injuries reported, by civilians or firefighters.

The homeowner was alerted to a problem by a smoke detector in the shop.

The noise was loud and unique enough to be heard in the main residence. The fire cause is under investigation.

Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) units were dispatched around 3 p.m., July 29, to a report of a small one story residence structure fire on First Avenue just off of Pines. The homeowner called 911 to report their dryer had caught on fire. All residents evacuated the home.

Crews arrived to find a dryer fire that had extended into the walls. A column of smoke and flames was visible on their approach. The fire was quickly upgraded and more crews were added.

Water lines were quickly deployed and crews worked quickly to hit the fire with an offensive approach. Crews also pulled the ceiling and quickly contained the flames. The interior and exterior was searched for additional hot spots. Crews had it under control and out in just over 10 minutes.

The investigator on scene ruled the fire accidental. The cause was an internal fire within the dryer.

Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) firefighters were dispatched at 9 p.m., August 10, for a report of a fire near the 8000 block of Appleway Blvd, possibly in the Dishman Hills. A 911 caller stated there was a fire alongside the roadway, up in hills, near the CarMax dealership.

Firefighters on the first arriving apparatus found a 100x100 foot fire moving slowly through the grass and trees approximately 500 feet uphill on See SVFD REPORT, Page 6

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• SEPTEMBER 2020

The Current

SVFD REPORT

Published Date: 8/18/2020 Prepared by Spokane County Sheriff's RIG 9 Unit

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Continued from page 5 a 35degree slope within the boundaries of the Dishman Hills Natural Area.

Firefighters hiked in from Appleway, laying hoselines along the way using a ‘progressive wildland pack’ and wetline the fire to limit spread.

Additional firefighters from responded as automatic aid, and assisted with digging a trail around the fire, further containing the blaze. The fire was 100% contained at 11:15pm. No structures were threatened; however staff at Park Place Retirement (511 S. Park) were notified of the incident due to proximity.

There were no injuries reported to civilians or firefighters. Final estimates placed the fire at 250 x 300 feet in size.

Moving Violation, August 12 – Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) investigator was driving southbound on Sullivan when a semi-truck hit a car at the intersection with Marietta.

The investigator was first on scene and called the incident into dispatch asking for a fire response as there were two occupants in the vehicle. Sheriff’s Office was also dispatched for traffic control.

The SVFD Investigator positioned their truck behind the semi-truck to help protect the scene from southbound traffic. The SVFD Investigator turned the scene over the Sheriff’s Office upon their arrival.

Alarm System, August 13 – Spokane Valley Fire responded with Valley Engine 5 to Wild Wings for report of pull station fire alarm activation by alarm company. Upon arrival at Wild Wings, VE5 got a quick 3 sided look at the structure and saw nothing showing.

Valley Engine 5 began an investigation of the property. The shift manager greeted them and stated that this was a confirmed false alarm as someone had pulled the pull station fire alarm. She said she would look at the camera video to see what happened and who did it.

VE5 proceeded into building and reset the pull station alarm for the business.

The fire panel confirmed that this was the only issue alarming. VE5 helped reset the system and all alarms cleared with no return. VE5 returned to service.

Possible Illegal Burn, August 14 – Spokane Valley Fire was called to a potential illegal burn. Valley Engine 6 Crews arrived on scene at a private residence to find an illegal burn in the backyard. The homeowner and children were having a small fire in the fire pit. The fire pit contained scrap wood and some yard debris. Fire crews advised the homeowner of the ongoing burn restrictions and that only clean seasoned firewood is allowed. SVFD Fire Crews left behind a copy of the burn regulations. Crews extinguished the fire and cleared the scene.

2020 July Burglary Hotspots

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SEPTEMBER 2020 • 7

The Current

Introducing the

Safety Awareness Channel 2020 July Malicious Mischief Hotspots ! (

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.

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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Published Date: 8/12/2020 Prepared by Spokane County Sheriff's RIG 9 Unit

With COVID-19 making its way through our community, we would like to remind you to please “Stay home and stay healthy.” If you do need to go out, please remember to;

1. Practice social distancing. Stay at least 6 feet away from other community members.

2. Only buy what you need. The recent onslaught of over buying of items has caused shortages in the immediate food supply in our community. The only way for those to replenish is to give them time to transport and restock those items. Please only purchase what you need.

3. Wash you hands! Remember to wash your hand after each outing you may embark on.

4. Keep surfaces clean. COVID-19 can survive on surfaces for extended periods of time. Wipe frequently used surfaces daily to contain contamination.

8

• SEPTEMBER 2020

The Current

NEWS

Council begins planning for transferring into a sinkhole.” He 2021 called for a Council discussion to

By Bill Gothmann Current Contributor

2021 Street Fund Comes up $1.9 Million Short In a day long budget meeting staff proposed that for the first time since 2013, the carry-over from a previous year will be used to fund part of next year’s current budget, namely the Street Fund. In the past, the carry-over was placed in a Capital Reserve Fund two years after the year in which the carryover was generated. The Capital Reserve Fund is used to finance special, one-time expenditures such as Centerplace Improvements, Appleway Trail, Barker improvements, Euclid Avenue Improvements, Garland Avenue Construction, Balfour Park and other park acquisitions. However, next year the City anticipates an increase of $1.5 million (5.6%) in the Sheriff’s contract and a shortfall of $1.9 million in the Road Fund.

The Road Fund has been in the red for a number of years because of declining receipts from the phone tax.

Deficits from 2017 to 2021(proposed) have been, respectfully: $251,210, $430,091, $907,544, $1,714,906 and $1,898,050. In 2020 these were made up by a $1.6 million transfer from the Capital Reserve Fund. However, the more that is transferred from this fund to the Street fund, the less that is available for projects such as those listed above. Good financial planning dictates that the Street Fund, since it is a recurring fund, should have recurring resource whereas one-time projects should be funded by one-time resources. This year, for the first time since 2013, staff is proposing transferring $1.9 million to the Street Fund directly from the General fund to fund streets and eliminating any carryover from the General Fund for both 2020 and 2021.

Deputy City Manager John Hohman stated concerning the Road Fund, “We are on an unsustainable course. It is something Council will have to address in the future, sooner than later, probably sooner.”

Council Member Arne Woodard stated, “I will not vote for the budget the way it is. Last year I voted for the $1.6 [million transfer from Capital Reserve Fund to Road Fund] with some arm-twisting.

We are not being frugal if we keep

solve the problem.

The shortfall in the Sheriff’s contract is because last year the contract did not contain the cost of living allowance (COLA) budget increase actually received by the officers.

Thus, 2021 will have to account for two COLAs when compared with 2020. In addition, the County is now permitting officers to be hired when the opening is planned, such as a retirement. In that manner, a new officer will be trained and in place when the actual retirement occurs.

General Fund recurring expenditures are expected to increase from $43.2 million this year to $45.0 million next year (4.1% increase), whereas recurring revenues are expected to increase from $41.7 million to $42.2 million (1.2% increase).

Later in the budget meeting, staff proposed adding a Housing and Homeless Division with two fulltime employees. Homeless issues have been taking substantial time of City staff. In addition, Council has expressed a desire to look into the City becoming its own recipient of HUD grants rather than remaining part of the consortium of small cities within the County. Council asked staff to look into repurposing a vacant staff position to see if that could fill the need, then working with other County partners on homeless issues.

Public Safety proposed a prioritized list of 16 supplemental projects at the precinct site. The top projects were replacement of four HVAC units at $25,000 each and repairing the access control gate for $20,000. Others include wainscoting uncovered walls ($3,000), repairing the fire suppression system (Under $5,000), removal of trees from the front parking lot where roots are affecting the pavement ($5,000), replacement of the fire panel ($10,000), remodel of the Patrol Sergeant’s area (cost unknown), sealing and restriping the asphalt ($10,000), and several back parking lot improvements (totaling $73,000).

Parks and Recreation proposed repairing pixels in the Centerplace great room’s video wall ($6,505), reprogramming the Great Room A/V system to permit remote control, and correcting some minor

File photo Both Councilmember Pam Haley and Deputy Mayor Brandi Peetz received an Advanced Certificate of Municipal Leadership from the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) issues ($12,499), and repairing or replacing the siding on the Mirabeau Meadows restroom ($30,000).

This was the first of more than ten meetings on the 2021 budget.

Final approval is scheduled for Nov. 24.

Rezones, Annexation, Essential Public Facilities

and

Staff presented Comprehensive Plan Amendments that rezone the area from 4th to Broadway, annexation rules, essential public facilities rules, and four site rezones.

CPA 2020-0007 Area Rezone.

This rezone purports to reduce the number of duplexes permitted in certain residential areas. Presently, R-3 zones permit six dwelling units per acre and minimum lot size is 5000 sq. ft. [note that an acre is 43,560 sq. ft. and dividing 43,560 by 5000 yields 8.7 units per acre not 6].

Under this amendment the density would be changed to a maximum of eight units per acre. R-3 presently can have duplexes, but would be changed to only permit them if the lot size were 14,500 sq. ft. minimum.

However, dividing 43,560 by 14,500 for a duplex yields a density of about 6 dwelling units per acre, so there is effectively no change in density from the present 6du/acre permitted in R-3.

A new zone, R-4, is created that has a density of 10 units per acre with a minimum lot size of 4300 sq. ft. Duplexes would be permitted in the new zone. This new R-4 zone would apply to most of the lots between 8th and Broadway.

Although the Planning Commission voted 7-0 to reject this rezone, the Council agreed to bring this forward for a vote.

CTA 2020-0001 Annexation.

This amendment to the City Code identifies the criteria by which

property can be annexed to the City.

State law provides three methods for annexation: voter-initiated election, Council-initiated election, and direct petition. The annexed area must be within the Urban Growth Area and contiguous to the City. The code amendment supplies criteria to determine the short and long-term impact of the annexed area. It also details how the zones of the annexed area will be assigned and the necessity for cooperation between jurisdictions.

Council agreed to bring this forward for a vote.

CTA 2020-0002 Essential Public Facilities (EPF). Facilities such as a jail or drug rehabilitation center are essential but very difficult to locate.

State law prescribes how this is to be done. If the facility is to be regional, the County would determine the site. If it is to be local, the City can determine which zones allow such facilities. This amendment specifies that EPFs are prohibited in single family neighborhoods within Spokane Valley but permitted in other zones under a conditional use permit. Council agreed to bring this forward for a vote.

Site Rezones: There were four site rezones proposed.

Three were privately initiated: 1311 N. McDonald Road rezone from single family residential to corridor mixed use, Fancher and Sprague rezone from industrial to regional commercial, 1723-24 N. Union rezone from mixed family use to corridor mixed use. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the McDonald Rd. and Fancher/Sprague change but recommended disapproval of the N. Union change. The Council agreed to bring all three forward for a vote.

The final rezone change was initiated by the city to change

The Current

the East Valley School District Walker Center at 3830 N. Sullivan from industrial to corridor mixed use.

The Planning Commission recommended approval by a 5:2 vote and Council agreed to bring this forward for a vote.

Federal COVID-19 Money to be Distributed The City received about $2.9 million from the federal CARES Act to be distributed to firms to reimburse them for COVID-19 expenses. The Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce will administer funds to both businesses and non-profits. Council has asked that $904,000 be used for small business (with $75,000 of this being used for hospitality businesses) and $411,000 be used for non-profits. The system will use a lottery method of selecting applicants. Spokane Valley Partners was chosen to administer $236,640 in funds for the food security portion. The grant provides for up to $100,000 to be allocated for vehicles, one a refrigerated truck and another a smaller truck for deliveries into neighborhoods. The remainder will be used for food security for residents. The Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (SNAP) was awarded $993,424 for rental assistance, mortgage assistance, and utility assistance.

Grants will be made for up to four months to those at or below 80% of the average median income. Council noted that connection to the Internet is a valuable utility. $135,281 was allocated to three school districts for public health expenses: Central Valley, West Valley (WVSD), and East Valley (EVSD). Central Valley will receive approximately ½ of the funds, ¼ will go to EVSD, and ¼ will go to WVSD. City Teams with State for Manufacturing Road Map

SEPTEMBER 2020 • 9

NEWS

Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the State’s Commerce Department whereby the State will set up a regulatory guide for those seeking to manufacture within the City. The Roadmap will be hosted

by Commerce and accessed through the City’s web site.

Lodging Tax Goals Approved

Council approved the goals for the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee that were discussed in last month’s The Current, namely, funding “new and innovative projects, activities, events or festivals … to increase Spokane Valley tourism,” “emphasizing capital expenditures to develop tourist destination facilities or venues,” and recognizing the importance of lodging nights while taking into consideration shopping, dining, and overnight visits.

Tourism Update

Promotion

Area

In March of 2004, Spokane County, the City of Spokane, and Spokane Valley established the Spokane County Tourism Promotion Area (TPA). TPA’s can only be established by a petition from lodging entities.

Hotels, motels, and bed and breakfast lodging businesses with greater than $500,000 in revenue and 40 or more rooms are assessed a tax of $2 per room. Those with less than $500,000 in revenue with 40 or more rooms are assessed $0.50 per room.

The legislature recently authorized TPAs to charge up to $5 per room.

This would require a petition from hoteliers along with proposals and methods for use of the tax.

The interlocal agreement establishes a TPA commission to advise the County Commissioner on allocation of funds. Members must be hoteliers and these are

augmented by non-voting ex-officio members. Spokane Valley appoints two members and one ex-officio member.

For 2020, the County budget was for TPA revenues of $3.75 million.

They awarded $68,630 in TPA funds to five organizations, including $7000 for Crave and $25,000 to Winterfest, both of which are in Spokane Valley. 72% of TPA funds in excess of the first $60,000 were awarded to Visit Spokane and the remaining 28% go to the Spokane Sports Commission.

Many states have their own tourism department.

However, Washington closed their State Tourism Office in 2011. Afterwards, the Washington Tourism Alliance was established as a membershipbased nonprofit organization to partially fill the void. TPAs also help.

Valleyfest Events

Planning

Virtual

Valleyfest is planning a number of events for September 26. There will be virtual booths from 12NN4PM where on-line visitors can examine and purchase merchandise.

There will be four hours of streamed entertainment.

In addition, Valleyfest encourages people to decorate their porches or yards, register with Valleyfest, and then go to the curb when a parade passes by.

Also, there will be a lily pad parade where children decorate shoeboxes as parade floats. Keep tuned for event announcements.

Report from Multicare Officials from Multicare Health Care System reported that hospitalizations are increasing. In the past they admitted an average of eight people per hour. This has increased to 12 per hour due to the COVIS virus and is predicted to rise to the twenties. They encouraged

social distancing, hygiene, and use of face masks to reduce the spread of the virus.

Part of Desmet Court may be Vacated Hanson Industries has requested the vacation of 250 feet of Desmet Court including the cul-de-sac. This area of Desmet is located between Indiana Avenue on the west and Flora Road on the east. A new culde-sac will be dedicated to replace the vacated portion at the end of the vacated right-of-way. The first step in the process was initiated by Council setting a date of August 27 for the Planning Commission (PC) to consider the issue. The PC with then forward their recommendations to Council for their consideration.

Council Briefs • Council approved the Mayoral appointment of Jody Sander of Sterling Hospitality to the Tourism Promotion Area Commission for a three-year term beginning immediately upon appointment, and expiring April 30, 2023.

• Because of personal attacks on both private citizens and individual council members during public testimony, Council has asked staff to research rules limiting testimony to only that which is considered city business.

• The City has been allocated a two-year grant of $24,157 as part of the 2020 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. Council approved applying for the grant to pay for adding lighting and cameras to the police precinct’s rear lot.

• Council approved a land purchase settlement agreement for the Barker Road project of $105,000 following the City’s seeking condemnation for the acquisition.

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10

COVER STORY

• SEPTEMBER 2020

Department of Health Guidance for schools

By Ben Wick Current Publisher

When it came to reopening of schools Governor Inslee and Health Secretary John Wiesman have taken a different tact than previously taken. They released guidance for school districts but gave the ultimate decision upto the local health officers and local school boards.

In a document titled the Decision Tree for Provision of In Person Learning among K-12 Students at Public and Private Schools during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The WA State Department of health provide a “decision framework to assist local health officers and school administrators” At the heart of their matrix is an assessment of current community spread of COVID-19 by establishing three primary levels or infection rates. The highest level being identified at 75 people per 100,000 population testing positive over a 14 day period. So in Spokane County with a population of 522,798 (according to Google. com) that be a 392 cases in a 14 day window or an average of 28 cases per day. As of Aug 24th (the date this publication went to print) while Spokane County has been trending downward according to the Spokane Regional Health District’s website over the last 14 day period we have reported 578 cases or 110 cases per day putting us in the high category.

While in the high activity level the matrix “Strongly recommend[s] distance learning with the option for limited inperson learning in small groups, or cohorts, of students for the highest need students with disabilities, students living homeless, those farthest from educational justice, and younger learners.” It also strongly recommends canceling or postponing all in person extracurricular activities including sports, performances, clubs, and events.

While the guidance set by the Decision Matrix doesn’t clarify what the definition of “younger learners” is the Office of See GUIDANCE, Page 13

The Current

Back to School Takes on a new Look

By Ben Wick Current Publisher

When Governor Inslee abruptly closed school back on March 13th for what was initially set at a six week closure, it turned into a scramble to come up with large scale remote learning platforms. On April 6th Inslee and Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal announced the extension of the executive order stating that schools would not return to in person learning for the remainder of the school year.

As the Governor announced his phased approach to reopening Washington, and Spokane County was allowed to progress into Phase 2 opening the door for some businesses to return, most held out hope that the spread of COVID-19 wouldn’t have as large of an effect on the upcoming school year which is slated to begin in early September.

However, on June 11th in an opening letter of the Reopening

CVSD

BACK TO SCHOOL 2020

VIRTUAL

STUDENT OPTIONS All options use the same online curriculum which allows parents and students to choose whichever option works best for them, AND to be able to move in and out of different options if needed during the school year.

Grades K-5 OPTION

1

Virtual School-Paced with plan to return to in-person

OPTION

2

Virtual School-Paced

Washington Schools 2020: District Planning Guide, Superintendent Chris Reykdal stated “regardless of what Phase of the Governor’s Safe Start Plan their county is in. Counties in Phases 1 or 1.5 of the Plan must receive approval to reopen from their local health authority. Changing health conditions in a county or region may cause a local health authority or even the Governor to have to reconsider this opportunity to open, but the primary planning of most districts should be a presumption of a fall opening.”

Our local school districts sprung into action.

Central Valley School District (CVSD) CVSD quickly assembled a group led by STCU Chief Marketing Officer Marty Dickenson and Superintendent Ben Small to make recommendations for a reopening plan. According to Superintendent Ben Small “Over the summer, we established and have been meeting weekly with our

Grades 6-8

Grades 9-12

• Students attend school virtually Mon-Fri

• Students attend school virtually Mon-Fri

• Students attend school virtually Mon-Fri

• Students will be taught by teachers from their neighborhood school

• 3-period full day

• 3-period full day

• Students will be taught by teachers from their neighborhood school

• Students will be taught by teachers from their neighborhood school

• School-paced schedule allows for exible transition to in-person learning

• School-paced schedule allows for exible transition to in-person learning

• Students attend school virtually Mon-Fri

• Students attend school virtually Mon-Fri

• Students attend school virtually Mon-Fri

• Daily instruction by a CVSD teacher in whole and small groups

• 3-period full day

• 3-period full day

• Daily instruction by CVSD teachers

• Daily instruction by CVSD teachers

• Students log on and complete courses at their own pace

• Students log on and complete courses at their own pace

• Students log on and complete courses at their own pace

• Courses are guided by CVSD teachers who provide student support

• Courses are guided by CVSD teachers who provide student support

• Courses are guided by CVSD teachers who provide student support

• Students log on and complete courses at their own pace

• Students log on and complete courses at their own pace

• Students log on and complete courses at their own pace

• Courses are guided by CVSD teachers who provide student support

• Courses are guided by CVSD teachers who provide student support

• Courses are guided by CVSD teachers who provide student support

• School-paced schedule allows for exible transition to in-person learning

with plan to stay virtual

OPTION

3

Virtual Self-Paced with plan to stay virtual

OPTION

4

Virtual Self-Paced

with plan to return to in-person

2020 School Reopening Advisory Committee. This committee and its subcommittees, have representation from parents, teachers, principals, school staff, nurses, School Board members, elected officials and community members who have considered options, addressed issues, brought ideas from many different perspectives and problem-solved during this unprecedented time.”

Wanting to get additional input the district also put together a brief parent/guardian fall 2020 survey to hear from parents/guardians across the district from all grade levels which quickly received over 4,000 responses. According to the Central Valley Reopening Plan, 69.8% of the of respondents were likely to send their child to an in-person learning option or conversely 30.2% were likely to choose an at-home virtual learning option. With the largest insights being: “Masks appear to be a major issue. A high percentage of respondents do not want their child wearing masks all day, but want them returning to in-person classes. On the other side, a number of parents/ guardians stated that the fact that their child would be required to wear a mask was a reason they would not send their child back to in-person school.”

Also “A large number of parents and guardians work outside of the home and have issues with leaving their child unsupervised and unmentored if a virtual path is pursued.

As parents, this group does not have the time or in some cases the abilities to assist their child.”

Ultimately CVSD adopted a plan of options. Superintendent Small also stated “The cornerstone to our reopening plan is a new, robust virtual learning model, accessible on a single platform. This is an upgraded, state-of-the-art system, designed and led by CVSD teachers.

The virtual learning curriculum will be available to all students and will help us move in and out of in-person learning and teaching, as needed.”

As with best laid plans, soon after Central Valley adopted their reopening plans. Dr Bob Lutz, Health Officer for Spokane Regional Heath District (SRHD) provided guidance stating “Based on our rates, the existing science regarding COVID-19, and school reopening, I strongly recommend beginning the year in remote/continuous learning for all students. Consider in-person learning for those who have special health or education needs that cannot be delivered through remote

The Current

learning.”

Based upon the guidance from the SRHD, Central Valley pivoted their plan into the four current options for parents. Option 1 – Virtual School-Paced Learning with the plan to return to in-person as soon as available; Option 2 – Virtual SchoolPaced learning with the plan to stay virtual; Option 3 – Virtual Self-Paced with plan to stay virtual; or Option 4 – Virtual Self-Paced with plan to return to in-person. In order to plan for and setup the appropriate number of resources within each areas, parents were asked to provide their initial learning model choice by August 23rd and school beginning Wednesday Sept 9th except Kindergarten which will start on Monday Sept 14th.

Additional information about Central Valley’s plans including videos about the virtual options and examples of class schedules can be found at cvsd.org or for specific questions you can send questions to communications@cvsd.org East Valley School District Similarly, East Valley School District Superintendent Kelly Shea invited community and staff stakeholders to engage in developing the EVSD Reopening Plan via four key area workgroups: Health and Safety, Operations, Human Resources /

COVER STORY

Staff Support, and Student Learning.

East Valley also performed two family and Staff surveys in their final survey performed in July, with just over 1,000 parent responses 68.46% of parents felt that East Valley should re-open even if the pandemic numbers continue to increase; 73% were supportive of an alternating two days a week school schedule.

Similarly 77% of the 387 teacher responses supported schools to reopen if pandemic numbers continue to remain the same.

In a letter from Superintendent Kelly Shea to East Valley School District Families “We have created four options for how you want your children to receive their education.”

The four options created within East Valleys Reopening Plan are: A Hybrid Learning Model, where students will be divided into cohorts with each cohort attending school two days a week in person and attend virtual school / receive asynchronous instruction on the days they are not in school.

Distance Learning 2.0, where students will attend school virtually Monday through Friday in a “school day” schedule and experience daily live virtual learning and independent virtual learning with their peers. In

East Valley School District will inspire all students to achieve academic excellence and to become responsible citizens.

EVSD 2020-21 Reopening Schools Plan East Valley School District is committed to providing a range of high quality learning opportunities for our students. It is our goal to partner with families as we start school and provide options that allow for flexibility should COVID-19 or community circumstances change.

EVSD Learning Opportunities Hybrid Learning

Students attend school 2 days a week in cohorts.

Depending on their identified cohort, students attend Monday & Tuesday or Thursday & Friday with virtual (distance) opportunities for small group or 1-1 support from staff in a synchronous model. Students attend virtual school and receive asynchronous instruction on the days they are not in school.

Distance Learning 2.0

Students attend school virtually Monday-Friday in a “school day” schedule and experience daily synchronous (live virtual) learning and asynchronous (independent virtual) learning with their peers. Teachers will utilize the core curriculum and pace of instruction as in the Hybrid Learning Model.

Alternative Learning Education (ALE)

Students would register to attend an EVSD alternative program. Students complete work at home at their own pace and are guided by EVSD staff to meet the ALE requirements.

●

EV Parent Partnership

-

●

EV Online (EVOL)

-

Parent is primary instructor and works with a teacher in partnership to guide student through coursework aligned to Washington State Standards.

Students receive instruction online and are guided by EVSD staff.

Grades K-6 Hybrid Learning Model Distance Learning 2.0 EV Parent Partnership (EVPP) EV Online (EVOL)

Grades 7-8

Grades 9-12

this option the curriculum and pace of instruction are matched with the instruction given in the Hybrid Learning Model.

Alternative Learning Education options, EV Parent Partnership, where a parent is the primary instructor and works with a teacher in partnership to guide the students through coursework aligned to the WA State Standards; EV Online, where students will receive instruction online and are guided by EVSD Staff.

East Valley is also asking their parents to please designate which option their family will be using as soon as possible so that they can begin making assignments and staffing arrangements.

School for East Valley is currently scheduled to begin on Monday Sept 14th.

West Valley School District From their August 13th School Board meeting the West Valley School District Back to School Plan presented by a panel including West Valley Superintendent Kyle Rydell, Assistant Superintended Vicki Leifer, Lead WVSD Nurse Grace Johns, Transportation and Food Service Representative Tim Morgan, and School Board Member representative Dan Hansen. Follows the WA State Department of Health’s Decision Tree for Provision of In Person Learning among Public and Private K-12 Students during COVID-19.

In essence their plan will follow the state reopening plan for schools based upon the infection rate / cases per 100,000 in county population.

In our current level of infection the plan would be to begin in a 100% Virtual with WV Online Academy with a Phased in approach to hybrid onsite learning 1 to 2 days per week for early learning beginning Sept 21st. Considering phasing in one grade level at a time starting with the youngest students.

Their Plan identifies the West Valley Online Academy will be taught by West Valley Teachers.

In a survey of the West Valley Community receiving 1,473 responses, they found that 91.4% identified that their student would be able to access school online, and that 75.3% would be able to access online instruction during school hours, and that when students are able to attend school on-site 74% say they are mostly likely to choose to return onsite.

First Day of School for West Valley School District grades 1 – 12 is Sept 9th.

SEPTEMBER 2020 • 11

Parents Rally for In-Person Learning

By Danica Wick Current Co-Owner

The day it was announced CVSD would not be providing an option for students to return to their classrooms with the start of the new school year, local Realtor Denay Hornberger knew she needed to do something. “I was angry that if felt like no one was listening. I wanted everyone making these decisions to hear us, the parents.”

“I have been doing my research and I haven’t found any evidence to show that in person learning is harmful to kids. We even asked to be shown the research that was being used to make this decision, but were never provided with anything.”

In 24 hours the group had grown by hundreds of members, in just weeks the group is now almost 2,000 members strong.

They have hosted two peaceful protests to raise awareness of their plight to get an in-person option for those that are comfortable sending their children back.

“I don’t want to force anyone to do anything. Just like I think there should be a virtual learning option for those that are more comfortable with that, I think I should be able to have an inperson option. As a tax paying citizen, I have rights. One of those is an education for my children.”

The group notes in their correspondence research to support their endeavor. One article features the American Academy of Pediatrics who state schools are “safe places for children and adolescents to be while parents or guardians are working. Beyond supporting educational development, schools play a critical role in addressing racial and social inequity.

Families rely on school to provide See OPEN SCHOOLS, Page 13

12

• SEPTEMBER 2020

The Current

brought to you by

Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

Whether he’s cast in the lead role of Simba in “The Lion King” or Charlie in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Jacob Schultz has been a fixture on the local stage for years. The senior-to-be at West Valley High School is part of Christian Youth Theater and has also been part of productions like “Shrek,” “Beauty and the Beast” and many others. He maintains a 3.96 grade point average and is part of National Honor Society where he has contributed to community service projects like blood drives and making holiday cards for seniors. This summer, Schultz has volunteered weekly at a Second Harvest food distribution at Millwood Community Presbyterian Church. He is a singer on the praise team at the church and has been a mentor at Vacation Bible School. Schultz is also a nationally ranked kendama player. University of Washington this fall.

Madison Moloney is a rare three-sport athlete who excels in every season.

In soccer, the West Valley senior-tobe was named first team All Great Northern League goalie last season and was runner-up for MVP. She had 10 saves – including two penalty kick attempts – in a win over Cheney.

As a freshman, she was part of an Eagles’ squad that placed fourth at state. She also plays club soccer for Eastern Washington Surf. In basketball, Moloney was a valuable reserve for a WV team that finished second at state in 2020. She has also competed in varsity track since her freshman year. As a sophomore she earned All GNL honors in the 400 meters and placed fourth at regionals. Moloney maintains a 3.8 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society. She also competes in Knowledge Bowl.

As a former Air Force survival instructor, Cal Coblentz is well-trained in the art of the pivot. As CEO of Spokane Valley Partners Food Bank and Family Services, Coblentz has adapted in the face of a pandemic to continue serving residents in need. Coblentz began at SVP in 2017 after serving as executive director of the Sinto Senior Center. He led a successful rebranding effort at SVP and added the Inland NW Diaper Bank to the center’s lineup of programs. The grandson of an Amish bishop, Coblentz signed on with Mennonite Volunteer Services after high school before starting a 20-year military career. He served as a pastor in Alaska and earned a degree in psychology from the University of Alaska-Anchorage before receiving a master’s in divinity from Liberty University. Coblentz and his wife Teri are proud parents of four children.

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SEPTEMBER 2020 • 13

The Current

GUIDANCE

Continued from page 10 Superintendent of Public Instruction has defined younger learners as students from birth to 3rd grade.

When cases per 100,000 population per 14 day period are between 25 and 75 cases (an average between 9.3 and 28 per day in Spokane County) the recommendations soften to while recommending distance learning opens an opportunity to “consider expanding in-person learning to elementary students.” And “Over time, consider adding hybrid in person learning for middle or high school students if limited COVID transmission occurs in schools.”

Lastly when cases are below the 25 per 100,000 population per 14 day period (or less than 9.3 cases per day in Spokane County) then the Department of Health recommendation softens again to “Over time and if physical space allows, consider full-time in person learning for middle and high school.”

And at that point begins to give consideration to “low and moderate risk in person extra-curricular activities.”

However in any of the scenarios where in person learning is chosen, a checklist of safety measures and plans are requested, such as plans for protecting staff and students who are at higher risk for severe COVID-19, grouping students into cohorts, practicing physical distancing of greater than 6 feet among students and staff, promoting and ensuring face covering usage among students and staff, and increasing cleaning and disinfections.

Then with all of the safety measures in place the last section of the matrix gives consideration to with the increased public interactions that COVID-19 spread would still likely occur and identifies items that both the local school district and local health district would need to be prepared for and ready to support such as “Is the school prepared to manage students and/or staff who get sick onsite?” and “Is there capacity in your local health department to investigate confirmed COVID-19 cases, quarantine their close contacts and assess whether transmission is occurring in the school?”

While the decision for the return to in-person learning rests with the local school districts there are many factors, considerations, and new processes required from the schools whenever we get to go down this path.

OPEN SCHOOLS

Continued from page 11 child care, a safe, stimulating space for children to learn, and access to mental, physical, and nutritional health services.”

Another from the Center for Disease Control states “the best available evidence indicates that COVID-19 poses relatively low risks to school-aged children.

Extended school closure is harmful to children. It can lead to severe learning loss. Additionally, extended school closures can be harmful to children’s mental health and can increase the likelihood that children engage in unhealthy behaviors. An environment where students feel safe and connected, such as school, is associated with lower levels of depression, thoughts of suicide, social anxiety, sexual activity, but increases self-esteem and reduces the likelihood of substance abuse.”

Throughout the process of organizing there have been small wins which further focused their efforts. Mead decided to allow in person learning for K-5, then East Valley decided they would allow a hybrid in person learning option, and Freeman also decided they would open their doors for small groups of students to learn on campus.

However, CVSD has not.

The group understands the concerns that have guided this decision. After calling school boards, Spokane Department of Health, the Superintendent’s Office, and anyone else they thought might be able to help, they have determined the main concern is legal action being taken against the district. They are hopeful that Governor Inslee will read the letter sent to him by the Washington Schools Risk Management Pool asking him to issue an executive order to protect schools from COVID-19 liability.

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SEPTEMBER 2020 • 15

The Current

On the matter of Courage

By Mayah Eberhardt

Courage is having the strength to persevere even when times are tough.

Being bold despite what others may think or say, courage is a trait that brings new opportunities for change every single day. I am Mayah Eberhardt, quiet in beginning of new situations and friendships but exuberant once time has passed. I am your average high school student who has a passion for running and I love to make people smile. I am another imperfect teenager who loves her family, friends, and puts her faith in the Lord. I am a human and being human, we all can all relate to how rough things can get sometimes.

There are times when I feel like I am afraid to try new things and I’m doubtful when challenges turn up. I will admit that instead of focusing on the positive side of the situation, I fear a possible negative outcome. Sometimes, confidence is not my default disposition.

I wonder what people will think or say, or how they will react, and it makes me want to back down from taking a chance. For example, (and one that many can relate to), it is difficult for me to ask a question in a class full of people because I wonder: “what if I’m the only one who doesn’t get it? I don’t want people to think I’m not smart.” I have learned by stepping out of my comfort zone that more times than we realize, the people around you are wondering the same thing as you. Being bold, doesn’t just help you out, but it can influence the people around you and it can also help the teacher understand more about how the information being taught is received. Little acts of courage can help everyone.

Back during my sophomore year, my track coach had to adjust relay positions for the new season, and I was so afraid of being placed in the starting leg because it was something I’d never done before. I was not too excited when I ultimately got put in the starting leg, and again self-doubt started sinking in: “What if I leave the baton at the start when the gun goes off?” That would disappoint my team.”

circumstances. It is in moments like these that I have developed courage.

Not only was it a successful relay, it gave me more experience in demonstrating personal bravery and how to defeat negativity. The relay is an example of other challenges that we face in life.

Nelson Mandela said, “that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.” It can be hard to be bigger than your situation, but someone in the world needs your courage. Right now, in society a lot is going on. I want to encourage you to be bold in the face of all that is negative. Have the courage to talk about goodness even as the despair of COVID-19 surrounds us.

Your courage to be positive when it is so easy to be negative can shift how people are coping with the pandemic and it can inspire others to have a courageous mindset. We are also seeing a lot of racial unrest. It is certainly uncomfortable to talk about, but courage can lead the conversation. There is a lot of hate in the world. I encourage you to talk about it, listen to other perspectives, and then after you talk about, DO something about it, no matter who is watching, listening, or even opposing you. Take a stand against hate. We are all humans.

Be strong and courageous. Never talk yourself out of something that you know you can do.

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“What if I am in lane one and I can’t run fast enough to catch anyone?”

“What if I mess up the handoff?”

All these questions were running through my head, and what do they all have in common? They were all fear based and negative “what ifs.”

However, I went out and ran the relay and NONE of those things happened.

It was easier than I ever thought.

Challenges like these have taught me how to push through difficult

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Fairs Reimagined

By Tie Lemerond Current Contributor

2020 Spokane County Interstate Fair Goes Virtual Spokane Valley: Since 1952, the Spokane County Interstate Fair has wowed citizens of the Greater Spokane Area and beyond with one of Spokane’s largest annual events.

In a traditional year, the Fair sees approximately 200,000 guests and roughly 14,000 competitive exhibits.

Although this year’s Interstate Fair is not what they had planned for, it promises to be one for the books.

With the presence of COVID-19, this year’s fair theme of “Expect the Unexpected” became more than anyone could have imagined.

A portion of the Spokane County Interstate Fair’s mission statement states that they will “Serve as a showcase of the talents of our community by providing a means of education, exhibit, and competition”.

With that said, the Spokane County Interstate Fair is excited to be offering some “tastes” of the fair for both exhibitors and attendees.

Additionally, they wanted to be sure to offer categories that both livestock and non-livestock exhibitors could enter.

Still Exhibits: Even though some event registration deadlines have passed, there are still plenty of fun and exciting things to take part in: • September 2 - Quilts of Valor Blocks: The Spokane Interstate Fair is pleased to partner with Quilts of Valor to create this year’s Block Contest. Exhibitor must incorporate red, blue, and true white in their quilt block. Block sizes must measure 12.5” as sewn and will finish at 12” when area Quilts of Valor volunteers put the quilts together. Blocks should be placed in a gallon-sized clear storage bag (i.e. Ziploc) and delivered to the Fair Office on September 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Staff will meet you at the Fair Office and you will not need to exit your car. All blocks become the property of the Quilts of Valor program and will be sewn together to create a quilt for

deserving veterans.

• September 3 - Kit Craft by JAB: Open to youth exhibitors only. The Fair’s Junior Advisory Board (JAB) Members have put together kits for you to take, make at home, and enter into this year’s Virtual Fair!

• September 3 - Floral/Dahlias: Flowers will be judged based upon perfection for their variety. Winning flowers will be selected based upon the top three scores.

• September 3 - Best Garden: Here is your chance to show off your Green Thumb! Exhibitors must provide a “map” of garden illustrating where each type of plant is located within the garden. All plant types must be labeled on the map.

• September 9 - Hay King or Queen: Each grower entering the competition must bring their hay to the Fair and Expo Center on Wednesday, September 9 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Please enter the Main Gate Off of Havana Street and proceed northeast to the Green Gate.

• September 9 - Largest Pumpkin: Pumpkins must be grown and entered by the exhibitor. Pumpkins must be brought to Jennifer’s Auto on E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley, on September 9 between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. for weigh-in. Pumpkins will be off-loaded, weighed, photographed, and returned to the exhibitor on the same day.

• September 10 - Beer Bread Baking Contest: Open to adult exhibitors only. Bread and recipe must be submitted to the Fair Office on September 10 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

2020 Virtual Fair for Livestock: There is no need to travel, take time off work, worry about passes or camping. All photography / videoing can be done from the convenience of your farm. All entries for 2020 must be submitted online, judging will take place online, and comments from judges will be shared with the exhibitors through e-mail.

World’s Largest Fair Food-Drive Thru In addition to the Virtual Fair, the Spokane County Interstate Fair will be hosting the World’s Largest Fair

Food-Drive Thru on September 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, and 20. “Fifteen food vendors (mostly local) will be on site all six days for attendees to get their fill of some of the best food around,” states Fair Coordinator, Jessie McLaughlin. She adds, “The hours are from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Admission will be free and then the skies the limit on how much food they want to purchase.”

Food Vendors will be: Azar’s Deep-Fried Azar’s Greek Bibby Italian Sausage Booth Bread Barn Funnel Cakes El Katif FutureGlory Concessions H and H Blue Vending Dog House Island Noodles John Dough Longhorn Barbecue Mary Lou’s Ice Cream Moonshriners Old Fashioned Kettle Corn Pizza Rita Uncle Bill’s King Corn Dog For more information, log in to https://thespokanefair.com/ Annual Valleyfest Celebration Goes Virtual Valleyfest, Spokane Valley’s premier community festival, is shifting to an online celebration for its 31st year as the community continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Executive Director Peggy Doering said she had been holding out hope that the event could happen in person this year, but it became clear that Spokane County would likely not be in Phase 4 by the end of September.

“Valleyfest builds a sense of community,” she said. “This year with COVID-19, we have to do all this at home. We can’t meet together as a community, but we can still come together.”

Plans for virtual events are still being finalized, but include a Virtual Vendor Village on Sept. 26 with crafters and vendors available for a live chat for part of the day and a live stream of music and entertainment.

“We still have to support our

small businesses,” Doering said.

“They haven’t been able to go to many events this year.”

There will also be options for community involvement, including a porch decorating contest that will bring the Miss Spokane Valley Royal Court to the homes in a socially distanced procession. There will be a virtual Multi-Sport Day that will allow participants to canoe, bike and run on their own. Organizers are also exploring the possibility of hosting a drive-in movie.

Doering said she appreciates the support Valleyfest has received as it switches from a three-day outdoor festival of music, entertainment, food and outdoor sports to a virtual event. “We want to thank our sponsors, who pivoted with us this year,” she said Marvelous Mini Parade: Children are invited to grab a “shoe box,” pick a theme, and create a float using materials from home.

Registration is due by September 11th. The parade will be viewable on Youtube on September 26th at 1 p.m.

Valleyfest Lily-Pad Procession: Choose one of three themes for inspiration or use your own idea: Fall Harvest, Hearts of Gold, or First Responders. Then, register by September 19th at noon and start decorating. Once you’ve created your work of art, upload a picture and submit. Virtual maps will be available so you can plan a walk or drive around your neighborhood to view the creativity of our fabulous community.

Virtual Vendor Village: The Virtual Vendor Village will be held on September 26th. Vendors and crafters will be a4ilable for live chat part of the day. Live stream music and entertainment will also be available.

Event Hub: Valleyfest will be using Event Hub as their virtual booth platform this year. Events can be viewed from your phone or computer.

Entertainment is expected to be booked soon. For more information, rules, or registration forms, log in to https://valleyfest.org/

SEPTEMBER 2020 • 17

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• SEPTEMBER 2020

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CV golfer overcomes trials to climb life’s leader board

By Craig Howard Current contributing editor

Kami Twining has grown accustomed to walking down the 18th fairway as the leader in tournament after tournament.

Years ago, it was uncertain whether Twining would walk at all.

Born with a rare bone condition known as arthrogryposis, Twining dealt with joint contraction and shortening of muscles early in life that impacted the extension of her affected joints. Several surgeries followed.

“They told my mom and dad after I was born that I wouldn’t walk,” Twining said. “They said I was going to be in a wheelchair.”

Twining’s family connected with Shriners Hospital for Children where a reliable safety net of support quickly developed. Twining learned to crawl on her hands for a time while her lower body was healing in a cast.

Few would have imagined that the child who faced an uphill challenge in taking her first step would grow up to become one of the best youth golfers in the area. As

a freshman at Central Valley High School, Twining earned Greater Spokane League Player of the Year honors. She was All-GSL again as a sophomore. Now a senior, Twining’s junior campaign was washed out by the COVID-19 pandemic but she has excelled in regional tournaments throughout the summer.

The Liberty Lake resident said she has not let her unique challenges stand in the way of goals on the golf course or anywhere.

“I was insecure about it for a long time,” Twining said. “But I didn’t let it affect anything. I’ve always been like that – where I think nothing is impossible.”

Kami’s mom, Kara Twining, is a counselor at CVHS. She says her daughter’s “non-stop positive attitude” has been an inspiration.

“She has never in all of her life complained, or felt sorry for herself, or thrown a fit, or come home crying, or wondered ‘why,’ or given up because of her challenges,” Kara said. “I stand in awe of her ability to always see the possibilities. She never lets anything stop her.”

That doesn’t mean there haven’t been plenty of hard times for Kami

Contributed photo Central Valley incoming senior Kami Twining overcame a serious medical condition as a child to become one of the most accomplished golfers in school history. She was named Greater Spokane League MVP as a freshman and will continue her career on scholarship at Eastern Washington University.

and her parents. Her dad John was a standout golfer at CV who went on to play at the University of Idaho. Kami has a twin brother and a younger brother.

“I think any mom who has children with unique challenges spends many nights wondering if their child will be OK, if people will be kind or if there is more we can do to make it better,” Kara said. “These moments, for me, are the hardest and survived with an abundance of prayer.”

Twining’s journey to becoming a champion began at the age of 6 at Trailhead Golf Course in Liberty Lake. She also turned out for other sports like soccer and gymnastics where she was a high achiever despite hyperextensions in her knees that limited her radius to a 90-degree bend.

“Golf was the first sport where my challenges weren’t really challenges,” Twining said.

Kara remembers Kami being selected to play in a Junior PGA event five years ago along with nine other golfers on the top youth team in the region. She was the only girl among the 10.

“She played fierce and fearless and often assisted in match-winning shots,” Kara said. “Seeing her hold her own was so fun and showed all of us what Kami was made of.”

Rob Rowe, CV girls’ golf coach, knew Twining would have an impact on the program when she arrived as a freshman. Rowe says he has been impressed with Twining’s humble approach in her first three years as a Bear.

“I knew she was probably going to be close to our No. 1 player when she got here,” Rowe said. “But she’s never acted that way. She’s always willing to help out her teammates and she’s very coachable. What Kami has done is elevate the golf program at CV.” Rowe points to Twining’s extraordinary resolve regardless of where her game might stand. Such was the case at the district tournament at the end of her sophomore year.

“She came in probably not playing her best golf,” Rowe recalls.

“She wound up winning it. It was

just phenomenal knowing that she wasn’t at the top of her game but when crunch time came, she had the ability to dig down and win.”

Twining’s determination carries over to the classroom where she maintains a 3.81 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society. She also participates in DECA, a program that focuses on business and marketing. She has qualified for state DECA competitions twice. Last year, she signed on as a mentor with Link Crew that helps freshman students acclimate to high school.

Twining has verbally committed to play golf at Eastern Washington University, partly because she wants to remain close to home. Rowe says there will be no shortage of schools who “will realize they missed the boat” with a golfer who has routinely qualified for Washington and Idaho Junior Golf state competitions each year.

“Kami has overcome a lot and never used it as an excuse,” Rowe said. “She just goes out and competes.

Each year, she’s gotten better. I don’t think we’ve seen her play her best golf yet. I just know I wouldn’t count her out of any tournament ever.”

Kara said she is excited about what the future holds for her daughter.

“Whatever Kami wants for her future, she will go after it and find a way,” she said. “I do know that she does not want her challenges or her golf to define her and anyone who knows her, knows she is so much more than all of that.”

Other than impeding her ability to read putts, Twining said her condition has not adversely affected her game. Outside of a scar on her left knee – which people often mistake as the badge from an ACL operation – Twining says there is no residual pain.

Years ago, Twining stopped keeping mental track of her score while playing – an approach that has carried over to her dynamic journey beyond the green.

“I think going through what I have has made me more competitive and makes me work harder,” she said. “I’ve just never looked back.”

SEPTEMBER 2020 • 19

The Current

Contributed photo 1940 newly acquired engines.

80 years of excellent service

By Nina Culver

Current contributor

The Spokane Valley Fire Department, which traces its roots to the early days when Spokane Valley was known for small farms and apple orchards, is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year.

The department, which was formed as Spokane County Fire Protection District 1, changed its name in 2007. It started with a few firefighters and three leased fire engines. The first fire station was little more than a barn.

The department has come a long way since its formation. There are now 10 fire stations and more than 200 employees serving Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Millwood, Otis Orchards and parts of unincorporated Spokane County.

George Orr has seen many of those changes first hand. He started working with the department in July 1970. “It was a ragtag outfit in those days,” he said. “It didn’t pay much.”

Orr took the job after being injured while working for Washington Water Power. “I dropped a pole on my foot and crushed it,” he said. “I was out of work four or five months.”

At the time, firefighters with the department had to live in the Spokane Valley area. As a result, many knew each other and had gone to school together. “They were all hometown guys,” he said. “It was pretty laid back.”

He remembers all the learning that went into his new job. “We had to

know all the streets,” he said. “We had to know where all the schools were, all the buildings that had sprinklers in them.”

When he was hired, he took a four-hour first aid class. He wanted to know more, so he volunteered to be a first aid instructor. “I took a 10-hour class on how to teach a four-hour class,” he said.

When the EMT position was created, Orr was among the first group to sign up. Now every firefighter in the department is an EMT and many are also paramedics.

Soon after Orr started he took a leadership position in the firefighter union and pushed for improvements over the years, including overtime and higher pay. He describes it as the transition from “good old boys” to “here’s the rules, boys.” “My fingerprints are on that,” he said.

Cooper Kennett retired from the in September 2019 after 35 years with the department, the last 17 years of that career as a battalion chief.

In the beginning, however, he’d never planned on advancing above a captain, which he considered a “working boss.”

“It really wasn’t a position I aspired to,” he said of becoming a battalion chief. “I liked being on the trucks. I liked being on a crew.”

He took the battalion chief test because there needed to be two people taking the test or the department could look for an outside hire. But he soon learned to love the job. “It wasn’t a bad position,” he said. “I still got to work with good people. I grew into it.

I enjoyed it.”

He got a job in the fire department because he had a young family and needed steady work that wasn’t available on the construction crews

he typically worked with. His fatherin-law, Doug Rider, had been the department’s fire chief before he retired and his brother-in-law, Larry Rider, also worked in the department.

“I was looking for a steady job,” he said. “It was a good fit for me.”

Orr served in the state legislature from 1990 to 1994, where he advocated for firefighters. He retired from the fire department in 2004 after 33 and a half years on the job. But he still hasn’t left the job. “I still go back,” he said. “I go to union meetings.”

Part of what keeps him going back is the camaraderie among firefighters, he said. “There’s a uniqueness about the fire service,” he said. “You deliver babies and you watch people die. It’s like a battlefield.”

He remembers the stigma that used to surround the mental health issues that came with the job, including one year when he responded to four SIDS deaths in a relatively short time. It left him searching for answers and help.

“There ain’t nothing you can do at a crib death but cry,” he said. “When I talked to a counselor, I didn’t tell anybody.”

Kennett said he also experienced the stigma against mental health challenges. In his position as battalion chief he said he would often discreetly refer firefighters to mental health care.

“You try to steer those guys to help,” he said. “In the fire department world, you don’t’ share stuff like that.”

The attitudes toward mental health have changed significantly in the

department, which recently launched a Wellness App for its employees. It provides access to therapists, peer support and access to information on everything from depression to stress management.

“People became more aware of the effects of the job,” he said.

Kennett said he’s still not sure he made the right decision to retire, but he’d reached his goal of serving 35 years. “I miss the guys,” he said. “I miss the work.”

It had also become stressful, as Kennett watched men he’d worked with for decades die of cancer. He worried about his health and the health of his men, though he said the department has made a lot of positive changes related to firefighter health and safety over the years.

“When I started, you didn’t wear breathing apparatus for overhaul,” he said. “You just charged in and did it and coughed up black soot for a few days.”

The department has also changed in terms of the number of people it serves, the number of calls responded to and the type of calls. In the early days, there were a lot of tractor fires and hay field fires and few medical calls. In recent years, medical calls have accounted for between 75 and 80 percent of all responses.

“More people lack health care,” he said. “The fire department has become more of the primary care provider in our community.”

Contributed photo 1967 Inland Asphalt FIre.

20

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• SEPTEMBER 2020

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Election year Learning Circle offers course on US Constitution

By Dana Mannino, librarian Spokane County Library District

This year is an election year.

Sadly, for many this has become a time when Americans demonstrate their citizenship by yelling across the dinner table and unfriending people on Facebook. I think we can do better. This year, let’s spend our energy becoming more informed citizens.

Polls often demonstrate that Americans do not know much about their own government.

For example, you probably know that you have rights, and that some of them are described in constitutional amendments. Could you match particular rights to the correct amendment? Do you know when each amendment was added and why? Could you explain why we have the Electoral College?

For many of us, it may have been years ago, even decades, when we studied U.S. Government in school.

So if these questions are turning up some knowledge gaps, the library is here to help.

Spokane Is Reading offers community Diverse Voices booklist for 2020

By Erin Dodge Current Guest Correspondent

Over its 19-year history, Spokane Is Reading has brought a wide array of authors to Spokane Valley and Spokane to celebrate reading in general and the one book in particular that we’ve read each year.

And we owe a great deal to the Friends of the Library groups who donate the lion’s share of funds to make this happen each year.

Of course, everything has changed in 2020—how people connect and interact being among those changes. So this year, our book selection committee quickly decided that we wouldn’t have any in-person events in 2020 because of the uncertainty of the pandemic.

www.scld.org

The Current

Next, we discussed many, many books that could be the “one” for 2020. We found that when you have every book ever printed available as a possibility, picking just one book

This fall, Spokane County Library District is offering a Learning Circle about the Constitution of the United States. Learning Circles are study groups for people who want to take a free online class and also learn together with others interested in the topic.

In this Learning Circle, participants enroll in the free course “Introduction to Key Constitutional Concepts and Supreme Court Cases” offered by University of Pennsylvania through the online learning platform Coursera.

You can watch course videos at home at your own pace. Each week, you then gather via an online video chat to discuss the course material together with other learners and with a librarian who facilitates the discussion as a fellow learner. This Learning Circle meets for five weeks on Thursdays at 6pm, starting September 24, 2020.

to the constitution. It also examines different theories of how articles and amendments should be understood and applied today. Past students praise the course for its easy-tounderstand and non-partisan treatment of the subject.

The course is taught by Kermit Roosevelt III, a professor of constitutional law at University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School.

He’s a decedent of President Theodore Roosevelt and a distant cousin of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. He has an extensive publication record in academic law reviews. His op-eds have appeared in The Washington Post, CNN, The Guardian, and Time Magazine. A novelist as well as an academic, Roosevelt has also written two legal thrillers.

This election year, I encourage you to go beyond high school civics, “School House Rock” videos, and Buzzfeed headlines.

This class takes a historical approach, examining the problems that the framers intended to solve with each article of an amendment

Sign up for the library’s Learning Circle at www.scld.org/ lc-constitution before September 23 and deepen your understanding of our great country this election season!

becomes near impossible.

Cheese’s” by Tiffany Midge

Luckily, the Spokane Is Reading committee is comprised of smart, well-read people from Spokane Public Library, Spokane County Library District, and Auntie’s Bookstore. So when someone suggested that we come up with a booklist of authors and their books that we’ve considered for the annual read but that for some reason we have been unable to bring to Spokane County, we turned to the task.

With that framework in place, our choices coalesced into a theme of Diverse Voices that includes both fiction and nonfiction titles. So for 2020, Spokane Is Reading offers you 15 books to read this year.

–“An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones –“Another Brooklyn” Jacqueline Woodson

by

–“Between the World and Me”

by Ta-Nehisi Coates –“Bluebird, Bluebird” by Attica Locke –“The Book of Delights” by Ross Gay –“Bury My Heart at Chuck E.

–“The Fire Next Time” by James Baldwin –“Good Talk: A Memoir in Conversations” by Mira Jacob –“Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi –“Hunger” by Roxane Gay –“The Leavers” by Lisa Ko –“Long Way Down” by Jason Reynolds –“The Other Americans” by Laila Lalami –“Tell Me How It Ends: An Essay in Forty Questions” by Valeria Luiselli –“There Orange

There”

by

Tommy

You can learn more about each of these books at our website, www. spokaneisreading.org. There you will also find links to check them out from your library or purchase them from Auntie’s Bookstore.

Every title on this booklist is a good read, and each is different from the others, reflecting the rich tapestry of the American experience.

I encourage you to read at least one and, hopefully, all.

SEPTEMBER 2020 • 21

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ON THAT NOTE

Community Steps up for Gardner Family after sudden tragedy

By Nina Culver

Current Contributor

It was a normal Friday night, a hot evening on the last Friday in June.

The Gardner family, who loved the outdoors and often spent time kayaking on the Spokane River, grabbed their kayaks after Gabriel “Luke” Gardner got off work and headed to Corbin Park on the Spokane River. But Luke Gardner and his wife, Heather, would soon be fighting for their lives. Luke Gardner drowned while saving his wife and young daughter after their kayak overturned.

Kinzlee, who will turn two soon, was wearing a life jacket, as was 12-year-old Brayden in a separate kayak. Neither parent was wearing a life jacket. “We were super strong swimmers,” she said.

But it didn’t matter. Her kayak abruptly capsized on what looked like a calm stretch of river. Luke Gardner handed the baby off to Brayden, who lost his paddle, and Heather Gardner pushed Brayden’s kayak away from the suddenly rough water. She reached for her kayak as she had every other time she’d ended up in the water.

“It flipped straight up in the air and sank Titanic style,” she said. “I was going around, like in a drain.”

As she circled, being drawn under, her husband came to help. “I felt him touch me and we were both sucked underwater,” she said.

Things started to go dark and she thought she was dying, even though she was only ten feet from shore. “I remember thinking of the kids,” she said. “All of the sudden I was at the surface again.”

Someone used an inner tube to rescue her. Unable to move from exhaustion, she didn’t realize Luke was missing at first. A search was launched and his body was recovered later that evening by divers from the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.

Heather Gardner said she still wonders what went wrong. “He was so much stronger than me,” she said.

Her mother and 7-year-old daughter, Lillee, watched everything from shore. Gardner said she’s grateful to whoever rescued her. “I’m really thankful, but I miss my husband,” she said. “It’s just been literally overwhelming.”

The two had known each other since they were teenagers. She grew up in Hayden Lake, he in Post Falls.

They met when she was 15 and they started dating a year or so later.

There were three years when they weren’t dating, but still kept in touch.

“There were a couple years when we weren’t together, but we always came back to each other,” she said. “Our souls just clicked. We did every little thing together. We were literally best friends.”

The couple married in 2010 and settled in Liberty Lake to raise their family. Luke Gardner worked hard, including taking odd jobs on the weekends, to support the family and make sure Brayden could take his karate classes and Lillee could participate in all-star cheerleading.

When he wasn’t working, the family was camping, kayaking and spending time outdoors.

“Our life was so full of adventure and fun,” she said. “We didn’t waste any time.”

But in the darkness and turmoil that followed her husband’s death was a ray of sunlight. The Liberty Lake community has rallied around the family to support them financially and emotionally. There was no life insurance policy and Heather wondered how she would take care of her children. “That was one of my first

worries,” she said. “He did provide for us.”

A GoFundMe account was launched that raised $27,000. It allowed the family to pay for Luke’s funeral and buy groceries. But for Liberty Lake Mayor Shane Brickner, who is friends with one of Heather’s best friends, it wasn’t enough for a single mother suddenly juggling rent and a car payment by herself.

“I Knew that $27,000 wouldn’t go very far,” he said. “It really spoke to me that this was a family in desperate need of help from their community,” he said. “This is what it’s all about. This is what we’re here for.”

He rallied the community on social media, organizing a drive-by parade by the family home. People dropped off cards and donations. Businesses stepped up to donate everything from new tires for her car to haircuts.

Brickner said it was his goal to remove any financial worry the family might have, at least in the short term.

“We really wanted the family to focus on each other,” he said.

About 150 cars showed up for the parade, including representatives from local police and fire departments. The event raised an additional $20,000,

SEPTEMBER 2020 • 23

Brickner said. “It was just awesome,” he said. “We all rallied in a very, very short amount of time. It was a message, kind of a symbol of our community.

We take care of one another in times of need.”

Heather Gardner said that saying “Thank you” seems inadequate. “I’m so touched,” she said. “I can’t even express my gratitude. It’s made it so we can grieve and heal. We are taken care of right now. It’s been such a blessing.”

The family is in counseling and the older children have been able to continue their sports programs, which Heather said she believes is important.

“It’s so good for them,” she said.

Dealing with the aftermath of her husband’s death has been scary, but she said the outpouring from the community has made her feel less alone. “It makes it seem like it will be okay,” she said.

On August 19, the family and a few close friends celebrated what would have been Luke’s 36th birthday. They sat around and told stories and the adults drank his favorite beer. “We had tacos, which were his favorite,” she said.

She said that someday she hopes to pay the community’s generosity forward somehow. “Thank you doesn’t even mean enough,” she said.

“My heart is so touched, and I feel wrapped in love.”

Photo by Jillian Mertz Photography The Gardner family before the tragic loss of husband and father, Gabriel “Luke” Gardner.

24

• SEPTEMBER 2020

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