2023 November Current

NOVEMBER

2023

GREATER SPOKANE VALLEY

A VALLEY-WIDE COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

Recognizing Women Veterans

getting to know those who have served page 10

WIDOW’S MIGHT FOUNDER TETERUD PAGE 2

STUDENT MOCK ELECTION RESULTS PAGE 14

UNDERSTANDING RECLAIM PROJECT PAGE 24

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• NOVEMBER 2023

The Current

RIVER CROSSING

Teterud serves as president When it comes to the impact During especially bleak times, Caring of Widows Might while his wife of Widows Might, Teterud said it Widows Might seems to be at its Adrienne is part of the Board of begins with assertive advocacy. strongest. During the height of the Neither Teterud nor any Commission – Trustees.

“Most widows don’t ask for help, COVID-19 pandemic, volunteers trustees draw a salary. The 501c(3) delivered care packages that

Teterud and Widows Might celebrate 25 years

By Craig Howard

Current Contributing Editor

When Wes Teterud talks about the widows served by the nonprofit effort he started 25 years ago, it’s as though he is speaking about members of his own family.

The former pastor is in tune with the struggles and heartaches of those who live alone, right down to what he calls the “loneliest day of the week.”

nonprofit has been boosted by support from the city of Spokane Valley, the Greater Spokane Valley Rotary Club, Chester Community Church in the Valley and the New York Life Foundation among other benefactors.

Now in his 30th year as an agent with New York Life, Teterud went into the field after he saw the impact of life insurance benefits on one woman following the death of her husband.

they feel like other people are more in need,” Teterud says. “But I’m not afraid to ask on their behalf.”

Teterud said most served through Widows Might come from referrals, “a friend of a friend.” The process continues with an intake at the widow’s residence with Teterud or a member of the board making the visit.

“We determine how we can help,” he said. “We never give money directly, we pay for the service.”

“Sundays are especially difficult for widows because that’s when their husbands were usually home,” Teterud said. “It was a time they could spend together.”

Teterud said affordability of housing continues to present hurdles for many widows. One aspect the organization helps with is making sure widows are signed up for exemptions from property tax based on their income.

Teterud was born and raised in Great Falls, Montana, the oldest of six kids. His dad was a World War II veteran who found success as a baker with help from the G.I. Bill. His mom was a homemaker who later worked as an elementary school teacher.

After high school, Teterud departed Great Falls, enrolling at Briercrest Bible College in Saskatchewan, Canada where he earned a three-year degree. He accepted an offer afterward to become a pastor at a country church in Ft. Shaw Montana. He led the congregation of around 60 people there for two years before going back to school at Grace College in Indiana.

A few Sundays into the 13-week course, one woman piped up and asked Teterud if there were any plans to help local widows instead of just ruminating over weekly lessons.

Shortly after, Widows Might was born.

“We’re creating community among widows,” Teterud said.

“Those were very well-received,” Teterud recalls. “We got a lot of thank-you cards during that time.”

Teterud raised sheep on a hobby farm as a kid and participated in basketball, football and track at Cascade High School where he served as ASB president his senior year. He was one of 27 students in his graduating class.

It’s no coincidence that the origins of Widows Might go back to a Sunday afternoon at Valley Fourth Memorial Church in 1998 when 22 widows gathered to hear Teterud speak. He brought some insight to the subject, having published a book called “Caring for Widows” five years earlier, a project that sprang out of his doctoral thesis at Western Seminary in Oregon.

These days, Widows Might helps around 3,000 widows a year in areas ranging from home repair to resource navigation to assisting with qualified financial needs and more.

Once a quarter, the organization hosts a complimentary educational luncheon at CenterPlace in Spokane Valley. The fall event will take place on Sunday, Nov. 5, from 1 to 3 p.m.

included a variety of items to help widows weather the storm.

At Grace, he earned his Bachelor of Arts and later attended the Grace Theological Seminary on the same campus where he received his Masters of Divinity. A return to his hometown followed where he found work as a pastor at Emmanuel Bible Church in Great Falls. He would serve in the role for 15 years.

Contributed photo Spokane Valley resident Wes Teterud established the nonprofit Widows Might 25 years ago. The organization helps around 3,000 widows a year.

Those interested in learning more about Widows Might or supporting the cause can contact Teterud directly at 509-922-4535 or by email at widowsmightspokane@gmail.

See TETERUD, Page 4

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The Current

TETERUD

Continued from page 2 com. More information can be found at www.widowsmightspokane.com.

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Q: It sounds like you learned the value of a good work ethic, growing up in Great Falls, between toiling away on farms to raising livestock to competing in a variety of sports. How do you think this phase of your life molded you into who you became as a person?

A: My parents met shortly after dad was discharged from the Navy after World War II. Dad learned the bakery trade and was in the “dough” for over 45 years.

Mom was a homemaker for most of my adolescent years then she went back to college to become an elementary teacher. I was born the eldest of six children which meant that I blazed the trail for my other siblings when it came to discipline, parental experiments of child raising and independence. My parents both modeled and taught us a work ethic that served us well for getting jobs in the community like doing chores for ranchers, working for farmers by driving trucks and machinery.

We lived on 2 1/2 acres outside of Great Falls, Montana. I always enjoyed working with livestock, but especially horses. I raised 40 head of pigs for an FFA project and bought my first car with the proceeds. Working for other farmers and ranchers taught me how to relate to different personalities, which molded me into the person I am now. Caring for others was also demonstrated by my family in my early years. We had people over to our home for meals and lodging throughout the year. Dad would bring bread and pastries home from the bakery to give to those less fortunate. My philosophy in life and business is to care for others any way I am able.

Q: At what point did you know you wanted to become a pastor and why?

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A: My younger brother attended daily vacation Bible School in the small chapel across the street where we lived. He came home after classes and announced to my mother that he had accepted Jesus as his Savior.

We were not a particularly religious family. Mom didn’t know what to think of my brother’s declaration, but over the next year she saw something different in my brother’s

interests at the age of 10. He read his Bible, wanted to attend Sunday School and didn’t want to listen to my off-colored jokes! The next year after my brother accepted the Lord, he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease and was given nine months to live. My brother wanted to be a missionary but was not able to fulfill his vision. It wasn’t until I was 16 years old that I came to Christ along with the rest of my family. Over the remaining high school years, I felt led to pursue a pastoral ministry to in some part fulfill my brother’s dream.

Q: When you first started teaching the series on caring for widows at Valley Fourth Memorial Church 25 years ago this fall, did you have any idea that it would develop into such an impactful cause like Widows Might?

A: I did not. In fact, if it wasn’t for one of the widows in the class who approached me after our last class and asked, “Are we going to just talk about the care of widows or are we going to do something about it?” I don’t know if Widows Might would have been formed. We started with 22 widows for our first luncheon and have grown to over 100 widows who attend our luncheons each year.

We serve over 3,000 widows in our community.

Q: What are some of the main reasons that widows are apprehensive to ask for help?

A: Before a woman becomes a widow, she typically has been helping others. She had a role of helping herself, her family, her neighbors and her colleagues at work. Now when her role changes as a widow, she often is in need of assistance. Widows represent the saying, “It is easier to give than receive.” They often think that someone else deserves the help over them. Some widows don’t feel free to ask for help with their family members or community. They often feel they may be rejected and do not want to place themselves in that position.

Q: As you were researching and writing your doctoral thesis on the care of widows that would eventually turn into a book, did you come across information that was surprising or unusually illuminating about the topic?

A: The first thing I learned was

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that widowhood is not a geriatric issue. Three out of every four wives in America will be widowed at the median age of 56, for an average length of 18 years. The second thing I learned was that there were more resources and support for widows in the secular realm than the sacred community where the Bible mandates the care of widows.

The third and most troubling thing I learned was that within a year after a widow’s husband dies, 37 percent of surviving widows who previously had not been poor had fallen below the poverty line.

Q: Are there certain stereotypes about widows that you’ve seen dispelled in the last 25 years of doing this work?

A: Previously, I thought that either family members or the sacred community were taking care of their widows. While many are, I found that a significant number of families tend to forget their widowed mother, grandmother, sister and aunt. They get wrapped up in their own family affairs and unintentionally forget about their widowed relative. If widows do not have family support, I thought that surely the church would pick up the slack of care for the widows. That preconceived idea was dispelled as I would simply ask some leaders in various churches if they could name the widows attending or even how many widows are linked to these churches. Surprisingly, they could not answer the questions. I was amazed how many of widows who faithfully served in these churches over the years were forgotten when it came to care. Again, many churches are involved in their building expansions, church programs and other extraneous activities that caring for widows is not necessarily a priority.

Q: How would you characterize the community’s awareness and support of widows and has that level changed in the time since you launched Widows Might?

A: There has been a heightened awareness and support of widows in Spokane County since our organization began 25-years ago.

This has been demonstrated by press coverage such as the Current and other community papers over the years. I have been invited to present Widows Might at various civic, government and religious

organizations. We have received generous grants from the city of Spokane Valley, The Greater Valley Rotary Club, the New York Life Foundation and other grants represented outside the state. Widows Might is the go-to organization for other nonprofit organizations that refer widows to us.

Q: How does faith direct and propel your work?

A: James 1:27 states, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from polluted by the world.” This verse alone is the driving force of the work of Widows Might. There are over 100 references in both the Old and New Testaments about the care of widows. Widows bracketed Jesus’ life. He was met shortly after his birth by an 84-yearold widow named Anna (Luke 2:36-38). His exit of the world was marked by the presence of another widow, his own mother, Mary where He entrusted her care to his dear friend John (John 19:26-27).

The care of widows is God’s priority which directs and propels the work of Widows Might.

Q: Finally, what can the average person do to make a difference in the lives of local widows?

A: The starting point is for family members to identify the widows in their own family and become proactive in determining specific needs. When my dad passed away, my wife and I took the bills that mom had piled up on her table and wrote checks to each account. Mom was definitely the type of widow who would not ask for assistance, but she was very grateful when she received the help. Rather than family members telling the widow, “if there is anything we can do, call us,” find out specifically what they need and then meet that need. Churches can assign people in the church to look after widows throughout the year and report any needs the church can do for them. The community can volunteer through organizations like Widows Might to assist in caring for widows. A family out in Cheney volunteers to provide meat for widows in our area. If family members, churches and community members were caring for widows in a meaningful way, there would be no need for Widows Might to exist.

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• NOVEMBER 2023

The Current

Introducing the

Safety Awareness Channel SAFETY TIP OF THE MONTH

2023 September Malicious Mischief Hotspots Prepared by Spokane County Sheriff's RIG 9 Unit

Published Date: 10/25/2023

Spokane Valley Districts

Incident counts summarizes the events within 1/4 of a mile of each other. The heat map shows the density of events within the area.

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The maps provided depict where citizens have reported Vehicle Thefts, Burglaries, Malicious Mischief and Thefts.

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. Citizens who have been a victim of crime are encouraged to call 911, if the crime is in progress, or Crime Check at 509-456-2233, if not in progress, to report a •• crime.

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11-15 >15

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Published Date: 10/25/2023 Prepared by Spokane County Sheriff's RIG 9 Unit

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1. Kids Maybe you’re used to all the backto-school traffic. But maybe the kids aren’t, especially new student drivers not yet overcoming their own lack of expertise and that of their peers.

So stay wary in school zones not only for kids walking, but also for young, inexperienced drivers leaving the premises and picking up friends or siblings.

2. Darkness “When Daylight Saving Time ends, many people will find themselves spending more time driving in the dark,” the National Safety Council warns. “Depth perception, color recognition and peripheral vision can be compromised in the dark, and the glare of headlights from an oncoming vehicle can temporarily blind a driver.”

Though just 25 percent of our driving is at night, 50 percent of traffic deaths occur then, according to the council, a nonprofit founded in 1913 to reduce preventable deaths.

3. Critters You’re 3.5 times as likely to hit an animal, especially a deer, in November as at any other time of the year, so be aware of your surroundings especially as you are entering rural areas.

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Be aware of these hazards as the weather gets colder and the days become darker.

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4. Leaves As the foliage falls and winds blow, leaves litter the road.

They can cause motorists to park farther from the curb to accommodate piles, create puddles as they block drainage, hide potholes and pavement markings, prompt bicyclists to stray from their designated lanes and turn into a slick mess when they coat the road during rain. That’s because wet leaves create a mat that reduces

NOVEMBER 2023 • 7

The Current

traction no matter how new your tires are.

2023 September Burglary Hotspots Spokane Valley Districts

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Published Date: 10/25/2023 Prepared by Spokane County Sheriff's RIG 9 Unit

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Don’t click on your high beams.

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Otherwise refreshing chilly autumn mornings can trigger fog, reducing your vision and distance perception. This is when you’re supposed to use those fog lights that many cars have. They shine wide, low beams along the road and onto the edges of a street, which also is helpful for critter spotting. Don’t use them instead of your regular headlights but rather in addition to low-beam headlights.

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Have your sunglasses handy.

Don’t look directly into the lights of oncoming traffic when you drive at night.

And keep your windshield clear, so dirt streaks don’t contribute to the glare.

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Sounds wrong, but it’s logical because the sun moves closer to the horizon. That points it straight into your eyes and makes it more likely to reflect at low angles off buildings, other cars and windows.

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7. Glare The blinding distraction of sun glare waxes as summer wanes.

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6. Dampness We think of big puddles as dangerous — and they are — because front wheels can float and you can lose steering. That’s called hydroplaning.

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Also, proper tire pressure helps keep you rolling smoothly and safely. Check tire pressure with a good handheld gauge

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Tires perform better on rainy surfaces if they have enough tread.

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Published Date: 10/25/2023 Prepared by Spokane County Sheriff's RIG 9 Unit

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8

• NOVEMBER 2023

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NEWS

‘Strong but guarded’ — Spokane Valley sees challenges in 2024 budget

By John McCallum Current Contributor

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Spokane Valley’s City Council is on pace to adopt the city’s 2024 budget by its Nov. 21 meeting — a budget that features just over $104.58 million in various revenues against $106.4 million in expenses over 29 separate city funds. It’s a budget geared to serve four functions — functions that reflect the city and its residents desires on where it 509.924.0588 spends its money (policy) and the specifics on how it goes about it (operations).

It's also a budget that is beginning to see challenges with how the city maintains some essential services such as streets and law enforcement.

These challenges are a result of declining revenues among some historically productive accounts, rapid inflation the past two years due to issues arising out of the Covid-19 Pandemic and a reliance on sales tax that can fluctuate almost annually depending upon other economic factors.

“We are highly dependent on sales tax revenues,” City Manager John Hohman told the council at an Oct. 3 budget overview presentation.

“We’ve come through well on this over the last couple of years, but we’ll need to watch it closely. It will impact residents.”

Sales tax accounts for 37% of the city’s revenues, with property taxes a distant second at 13% and interfund transfers third at 11%.

On the other side of the coin, public safety takes up 33% of the annual budget, with the $20.6 million capital project funds second at 20% and the $9.62 million streets fund third at 9%.

The latter, which handles preservation and maintenance of the city’s arterials, collectors and

The Current

local streets, has been impacted by a reduction in two funds that have historically been robust.

More fuel efficient vehicles have led to gas tax revenue from the state either declining slightly or staying stagnant, coming it at just over $1.9 million in 2021 and 2022.

With vehicles becoming more fuel efficient, and the push towards electric vehicles and hybrids, the city’s share of the state’s gas tax could decline further.

A similar fate has befallen the annual telephone utility tax. The 6% tax generated $3.05 million in the first year of collections in 2009, but as more people have moved away from using land lines and gone exclusively to cellphones, that amount has dropped to $1.56 million.

Covid-19 impacted it further, but city officials believe it has stabilized, but are still projecting 2024 revenues at just $900,000.

In order to maintain enough funding to take care of streets, Spokane Valley has increasingly resorted to drawing down Street Fund reserves or through transfers from the General Fund.

It’s anticipated that a transfer of $3.53 million will be needed to cover the Street Fund operating deficit in 2023, with over $4.59 million budgeted for the same issue in 2024.

Spokane Valley’s $35.25 million 2024 public safety budget — which includes police, courts and jail related expenses — is a 7.56% increase over 2023. The budget represents 61.2% of the city’s $57.97 million 2024 General Fund expenses, and is equivalent to 255% of anticipated property tax revenues next year, estimated at $13.824 million.

“In other words, if property taxes were to double, they alone would not be sufficient to cover Spokane Valley’s public safety commitment,” Hohman wrote in his budget message to council.

The biggest challenge in public safety is law enforcement personnel. According to budget details, Spokane Valley’s Police Department has not substantially increased its staff since 2007, while in the interim, the population has grown from 87,894 to 107,400 residents.

The Current

NEWS

“We will need significant increases in officers,” Hohman told the council. “It’s not something we’ve done in over 15 years.”

Pavement Preservation Fund, $3.2 million in the Railroad Grade Separation Fund and $2.5 million in the Stormwater and Aquifer Protection Area funds.

Even with these challenges, Hohman and Spokane Valley Financial Officer Chelsie Taylor told the council in several budget presentations that the city is in pretty good shape, with Hohman categorizing the 2024 budget as “Strong but Guarded” in his written message.

The city has had success in securing grant funding for a number of capital projects, with railroad grade separation projects at Barker and Pines roads being nearly completely funded by state and federal monies.

General Fund recurring revenues are anticipated to exceed recurring expenditures in 2024 by $4.34 million, with total budget expenses topping revenues by just short of $707,902. The total unrestricted General Fund ending balance is estimated to be just over $41.43 million by the end of 2024 – 71.46% of total recurring 2024 expenses of almost $57.98 million.

“Our goal is to maintain an ending fund balance of at least 50%,” Taylor wrote in her budget summary.

The city also plans to offset over $19.42 million in capital expenses with just over $9.5 million in grant revenues, mainly from state and federal sources.

Most of those expenses stem from $8.9 million in the Street Capital Projects fund, $3.5 million in the

“This is one area the city has done very, very well at,” Hohman told the council. “It’s taxpayers dollars anyway, given to the state and feds and we want to make sure Spokane Valley gets its fair share.”

Council members have also listed economic development as one of their budget priorities to help bring more revenue to city coffers, public and private. Appropriations in the 2024 budget to help this effort include $1.25 million from the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund for tourism promotion activities and $500,000 from the Tourism Promotion Area Fund for professional services.

Council unanimously approved the first reading of the 2024 budget ordinance at their Oct. 24 meeting.

NOVEMBER 2023 • 9

10

COVER STORY

• NOVEMBER 2023

Women Veterans deserve recognition

Tzena was born and raised in Okanogan, Washington and upon graduation, wanted to see the world.

“There wasn’t much to do there. I wanted to get out of town and see the world.”

Having been raised by a father that served four years during the Korean War and uncles who fought in World War II, enlisting in the Army was a natural thought for her. She joined the Women’s Army Corps in 1976.

By Ashley Humbird Current contributor

In the United States, Veterans Day stands as a solemn and significant occasion, a day of reflection, gratitude, and reverence for the men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving their country in the armed forces.

Celebrated annually on November 11th, this day holds a unique place in the hearts of Americans, for it pays tribute to the selfless sacrifice and unwavering commitment of the nation's veterans. Veterans Day is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a symbol of gratitude, a reminder of the sacrifices made, and an opportunity for the entire nation to come together in appreciation of those who have defended and preserved the freedoms and values that make the United States what it is today.

This day, originally known as Armistice Day, was established to commemorate the end of World War I on November 11, 1918, when an armistice was signed, marking the end of hostilities. Over the years, its significance evolved to include honoring all American veterans, not just those from World War I, as the nation found itself involved in later conflicts.

The importance of Veterans Day transcends the simple act of recognizing military service; it serves as a platform for acknowledging the enduring impact of veterans on American society. These individuals have not only protected the nation from external threats but have also contributed immeasurably to their communities and the country as a whole. Veterans have taken their experiences, discipline, and leadership from the battlefield to the workforce, education, and various other facets of society, enriching the nation in countless ways.

As the nation pauses to observe Veterans Day, it underscores the significance of acknowledging the ongoing needs and challenges facing veterans. It reminds us of the importance of supporting veterans' healthcare, education, and reintegration into civilian life. More

The Current

Contributed photo Army Veteran Tzena Scarborogh was stationed at Fort Eustis and worked on the helicopters to sight in the guns. She is pictured here with a trainer helicopter used to show how to sight in other helicopters. As one of only a few women in the Army, Tzena had a unique set of obstacles in her path, but helped provide valuable assistance and training for fellow servicemen and women by writing manuals on the procedures of different jobs pertaining to working on helicopters. than a holiday, Veterans Day is a call to action, urging Americans to honor the brave men and women who have served and to ensure their well-being and inclusion in the fabric of our nation.

Veterans Day is not merely a day off from work or school; it is a day of reflection, respect, and gratitude. It is a day to recognize the extraordinary contributions of veterans and to pledge our commitment to their well-being and the preservation of the freedoms they have so valiantly defended. It is a day that underscores the unity and shared responsibility of a grateful nation, as we come together to say, "Thank you for your service."

Recognizing Women Veterans Changing how we perceive veterans to include women is a crucial step in recognizing the vital contributions of female service members. To make this shift, we can start by showcasing the stories of women who have served in the military in film, literature, and educational materials. By learning about the diverse roles women have played in the military, from combat to support roles, we can challenge stereotypes and broaden our view of veterans.

Throughout the decades, women have taken on increasingly diverse and essential roles in the military.

In World War I, they often served as clerks, telephone operators, and

nurses.

In 1942, the Women's Army Corps (WAC) was established and allowed women to serve in various roles, including as mechanics and pilots. Its main purpose was to allow women to serve in noncombat positions, freeing up men for frontline duty. WAC members received military training, wore uniforms, and served in essential support roles like administration, communications, and healthcare.

Although they didn't engage in combat, their contributions were essential to the war effort. The WAC marked a significant step toward gender equality in the military and paved the way for women to serve in various roles within the armed forces. It was disbanded in 1978, and women's roles were integrated into the regular Army.

During the Korean War, women continued to serve as nurses and support staff. The Vietnam War saw the expansion of roles, with women working as military police, intelligence analysts, and air traffic controllers. In the Gulf War and the conflicts that followed, women served as combat pilots, medics, and military police, contributing significantly to the mission's success.

Tzena Scarborough Local Spokane Valley resident Tzena Scarborough knows firsthand the difficulty of identifying as a woman veteran.

After completing basic training in Alabama, Tzena was one of the first women to work with the Cobra Helicopter weapon electronic systems. “My job was to make sure that the missile went where the crosshairs were pointed at. It was called bore-sighting,” Tzena shares about the beginning of her Army career.

She received orders to be stationed at Germany and continued her work on the helicopter quality control. During her time in Germany, she was able to rent a car and visit the county and family members that she had not met before. She skied the Alps, enjoyed the local cuisine, and learned enough German to be able to ‘get by’. It should be noted that women were not allowed to be on the front-line combat at the time, though that rule changed in 2013.

After she re-enlisted, Tzena was stationed stateside at Fort Eustis in Virginia where she wrote soldier manuals for the jobs that she had. At the time, she was the only woman stationed there among 80 men.

At the time, she worked with multiple civilians as well as military personal. At times, she experienced the frustration of giving a direct order to a subordinate, being ignored, and when she went to fellow supervisors, she was ignored or brushed off as it not ‘being a big deal’.

“This is my rank. It’s not my gender. I thought we were all the same because of the rankings.”

Tzena explains about the frustrations of being a female in the Army.

Despite her desire to make a career of the Army, after her reenlist contract ended, she left the Army. Tzena had served a total of seven and a half years in the United States Army.

During her time in the service, Tzena dealt with depression and anxiety and the feeling of not being listened to and supported. She

The Current

describes her time with the military as a “hostile work environment”.

For years after leaving the service, Tzena struggled to understand her place in the community.

“I don’t regret my time in the Army. It made me grow up really fast. At the time, I didn’t see joining the Army as gutsy, I wanted to see the world, so I did.”

Her time in the service had made her used to being visible as one of the few females, but after her departure from the Army, “I felt invisible as a veteran. We had been taught a veteran was an older man who had served in a war.”

After spending multiple years working on her mental health and readjusting to civilian life, she began to see herself as a veteran and became comfortable going to the VA to receive medical treatment.

She is passionate about raising awareness and recognizing other women who have served in different branches of the military but are struggling to connect with the term veteran. She volunteers her time on the Eastern Washington Veterans Task Force and the Women Veterans Advisory Committee for the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. Most recently, the Women Veterans Advisory Committee held a woman’s forum on October 18th at the VFW in Spokane Valley where they were able to connect with other local female veterans.

Today, women total ten percent of the veteran population, a number that continues to rise steadily. The local VA hospital has been proactive in enhancing accessibility to women's health screenings and medical care.

During a recent presentation at the VFW in Spokane Valley, Lulie Liss MSN, RN, and Dr. Megan Chandler discussed the comprehensive care offered within the women's health program. This care includes primary care, gynecology, maternity care, postpartum support, ultrasounds, mammograms, mental health care and counseling, as well as lifestyle wellness services.

If you, a mother, sister, aunt, daughter, or friend served in the military and received a DD214 document from the United States Government, connect with Julie Liss at 509-434-7608 or Julie.liss@va.gov . Julie provides support as the Women Veterans Program Manager at the VA Spokane heath care.

COVER STORY

VFW Post #1435

By Ashley Humbird Current contributor

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1435 is located at 212 S David Road in the Spokane Valley and serves as an essential pillar of support for veterans and their families who have served in foreign wars and conflicts.

Veterans of Foreign Wars, or VFW posts for short, provides a sense of camaraderie and understanding among veterans who share similar experiences and sacrifices. They work tirelessly to protect and enhance the rights and benefits of veterans on local, state, and national levels.

VFW Post #1435 actively engages with their local community, raising funds for veterans’ causes, offering scholarships, and participating in community service events. They organize and participate in patriotic events from being in parades to helping raise awareness of the Inland Northwest Honor Flight foundation.

Our local VFW brings together a team of servicemen and women who work together no matter what branch of the military they served in. The team at post #1435 hosts Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee Town Halls, where different local and state veteran resources come together to discuss all current needs veterans are facing and provide additional support avenues. The volunteers at the post host frequent community meals at a reduced price to help veterans feel connects to a community and assist veterans in any way they can.

Some of the amazing community building opportunities they work on is providing and building ramps for veterans at their home, participating in local parades from Spokane Valley to Rockford, Washington, working with local governments such as Liberty Lake to install signs designating it a Purple Heart City, collecting, and donating assistance and items to fire victims, and hosting ceremonies honoring war veterans.

Active Post Members Jerry Nellick is a retired Army veteran who was active duty for 26 years and served in Vietnam,

Saudi Arabia, and Desert Storm. Jerry graduated from Eastern State College before his time in the Army, but also participated in the ROTC program.

During his time in the Army, he was in the Aviation department and served his tour in Vietnam working on damaged aircraft. He worked his way to becoming an aviator and flying for a few years. “There’s nothing like it,” Jerry shared about his time flying for the Army, “I learned to fly right out at Felts Field. It’s what I always wanted to do.” He continued to fly until the Army assigned him different orders.

“I liked everything about the Army. It was the best thing that ever happened to me. They paid me well and sent me around the world.”

Jerry is an active Veteran who gives back to the community in many different facets. He continues to this day being involved in the ROTC program at Eastern Washington University and remains an inspiration to cadets. In 1997 he joined the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation, where he helps to restore Army helicopters and until 5 years ago, he was also an active pilot touring the country at air shows.

The Inland Northwest Honor Flight Foundation provides local veterans with the opportunity to visit Washington DC and view the war memorials. Jerry has attended both as a chaperone on multiple trips and as the receiver of the honor.

Tom Towey is a Spokane Valley native, born and raised in the

NOVEMBER 2023 • 11

Trentwood area. He enlisted in the Navy with hopes of making it onto a ship, but as his luck would have it, was never stationed on a warship.

His first assignment after basic training was to be stationed at a classified naval base testing missiles in California. “There was twelve of us in a squadron, and they would send us snot-nosed kids out thirty miles into the ocean to retrieve test missiles and bring them back to the base.”

Tom was sent to a Navy base in the Philippines and worked in a store on the base for other servicemen and women. He was able to learn retail skills that would help prepare him for life after the Navy.

After six active years, he left the Navy and returned to Spokane and went to college to get a degree.

He worked at the local Rosauer’s for over thirty years and after retirement decided to get into local politics. He was elected to Spokane Valley City Council for two terms and served as Mayor for both of those terms. “The Navy actually taught me a lot about managing different departments and people.”

Tom took a step back from politics and now volunteers at least once a week at New Beginnings, a store that serves returning military servicemen and women and helps provide them with needed essentials for their home.

Contributed photo The City of Liberty Lake was recently designated a Purple Heart City. A Purple Heart City is an American municipality or town that honors and supports military personnel wounded or killed in combat. VFW Post 1435 Commander Jim Devaney, Sr. Vice John Beyer and past Commander Tom Pauley met with the Liberty Lake City Council to install the new signs.

12

• NOVEMBER 2023

The Current

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When it comes to high-achievers at East Valley High School, Lorelai Taylor is on the varsity squad. The junior maintains a 4.0 grade point average and is a member of National Honor Society where she serves as secretary and contributes to a variety of community service projects. Taylor is in her second year with Future Business Leaders of America and serves as EV chapter president. She is principal cellist in Encore Orchestra and part of Symphony Club. She is also a member of Tri-M (Modern Music Masters). In addition to taking a considerable lineup of AP classes, Taylor competes in Knowledge Bowl.

She is a certified volunteer with Red Cross. She also mentors younger students as a Link Leader at EV. The junior competes in tennis and volleyball. She would like to pursue a career in the medical field, possibly dermatology.

As a starting offensive and defensive lineman for East Valley High, Brayden Windhorse is accustomed to working in the trenches without much fanfare. The senior is less concerned with accolades than making sure the Knights prevail on the gridiron. “It’s about helping the team,” he said. In addition to earning three varsity letters in football and serving as co-captain this season, Windhorse contributed as a special teams player on an EV squad that qualified for state in 2021. In baseball, Windhorse earned All Greater Spokane League second team honors last season as an outfielder. He led the Knights with a .340 batting average. He has also played second base, third base and pitched. He competes with the East Valley American Legion team in the summer. Windhorse would like to continue his baseball career in college and pursue a degree in business.

Cheri Knox is known as “a bulldog for veterans.” As a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) working out of the Veterans Outreach Center in Spokane Valley, Knox helped over 300 veterans claim $34 million in benefits for medical conditions connected to military service during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. An Army veteran, Knox battles her own challenges, specifically a weakened immune system and kidney failure she relates to burn pits in Korea. “Cheri is extremely committed,” said Vet Center colleague Joe Dumlao.

“She’s just a humanitarian. She sees a need and steps up to help.” A Spokane native, Knox attended Shadle Park High and Spokane Falls Community College before embarking on a military career.

“A lot of veterans feel forgotten,” Knox said. “I listen to them and care about them and get them to the places they need to go.”

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NOVEMBER 2023 • 13

The Current

Council approves property tax levy, maintaining existing rate

By John McCallum Current Contributor

For the 14th year in a row, the city of Spokane Valley will be foregoing its state-allowable 1% increase in its annual property tax levy for 2024.

The council approved the 2024 levy at its Oct. 24 meeting, keeping the existing tax rate that is estimated by city staff to generate over $13.84 million in revenue, amounting to approximately 22.19% of the city’s $62.316 million general fund revenues.

The approval keeps the city’s property tax rate at $1.60 per $1,000 of assessed property values. It also increases the city’s “banked capacity” — defined as the difference the highest lawful amount the city could levy and what it actually does — to $1,136,382, money it could take in the future through a levy lid lift, but only if the rate does not exceed $1.60.

Council voted 4-3 at its Sept. 26 meeting to not take the allowable 1% levy increase. The last time Spokane Valley took the 1% increase was 2010. Council members Woodard, Tim Hattenburg and Rob Higgins voted to take the 1%, noting that while it would only provide $135,000 in additional funding, the city will eventually find that funding necessary in maintaining services.

“It is going to start hurting us in a lot of different ways,” Woodard said of the declined increase.

Junk vehicles ordinance After other issues such as budgeting and homelessness forced council discussions about junk vehicles cluttering up private property to the back burner, the issue finally resurfaced at the Oct. 24 meeting. City contract attorney Kelly Konkright provided an overview of amendments to municipal code chapter 7.05, Health and Safety/ Nuisances, that included new definitions for junk vehicles.

The proposed amendments define junk vehicles as those not

displaying a valid license plate and/ or expire registration of more than 45 days. The definition also includes vessels and golf carts under the “Machinery and Equipment.”

Unlicensed vehicles are limited to one in all four residential zones if it is screened, and does not include vehicles in proper commercial areas or those in enclosed structures. The allowed number of junk vehicles on a residential property has also been decreased from two to one if screened, and does not include those in proper commercial areas, enclosed structures and vehicles identified as being used for parts or under repair.

Councilwoman Laura Padden asked if Lime scooters, green scooters that are rentable and deposited around the city, were included in the amendments. Konkright said Lime tracks such vehicles via GPS and regularly picks them up to be recharged.

Councilman Ben Wick questioned what the definition of a “proper commercial area” was. Konkright directed council’s attention to a section of the draft ordinance that reads “Any vehicle or part thereof that is stored or parked in a lawful manner at a (i) licensed vehicle dismantler or licensed vehicle dealer business, and the private property is fenced pursuant to RCW 46.80.130, or (ii) legally established vehicle repair business.”

Council advanced the draft ordinance to a second reading with a 6-1 vote, with Wick voting no.

Construction The cost of Spokane Valley’s completed Barker Road / BNSF Railway Grade Separation project continues to grow. At their Oct. 3 meeting, City Council approved five more changes orders totaling $86,513.97 for the project that features a roundabout at Barker and Trent and a new bridge on Barker Road eliminating the at-grade rail crossing.

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), acting as construction manager and contract administrator with general contractor Max J. Kuney Company, has approved 52 change orders on the project, of which 19 have exceeded $100,000 and thus require council approval. Those 52 change orders have totaled almost $1.99 million, bringing the total cost of the federal, state and city funded project to just over $13.71 million.

The largest of the recent change orders, $74,535.59, was for adjustments to rock blasting work due to the unanticipated proximity to a CenturyLink fiber line. City engineering manager Rob Lochmiller told council there are 18 change orders remaining with cost implications that could be around $300,000.

Also at the Oct. 3 meeting, council approved entering into an interlocal agreement with the city of Liberty Lake for the purposes of joint planning. Both jurisdictions recognize that growth in one can impact the other, particularly when it comes to traffic and roadways.

The agreement “addresses the policies and procedures for reciprocal review and mitigation of impacts that occur as result of development near the borders of the respective jurisdictions.” It applies to all development proposals, not subjected to the state’s Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), within 1.5 miles of any point along the municipalities shared city limits. It also requires either party to provide seven-day notice of any development preapplication process or technical review meetings.

Public Safety Council voted 5-1, Councilman Wick voting no, at its Oct. 3 meeting to accept $24,166 in Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) funding via a disparate allocation memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the city of Spokane and Spokane County.

The total funding for all three entities in 2023, $214,815, is based upon a formula using population and violent crime statistics for states, with local jurisdictions receiving 40% of the state’s portion, the split based “upon each jurisdiction’s proportion of the three-year violent crime average.”

Spokane Valley was originally notified it qualified for $35,018 in funding, but because it was considered a “disparate allocation,” the funding was combined with the county’s portion, $21,945, and the city of Spokane’s $157,852.

After peeling off 10% for grant administrative purposes, Spokane and the county split the remaining, each receiving $96,666.

Spokane Valley’s amount was 50% of the amount allocated to the Sheriff’s Office, $48,333, with the remaining $48,333 allocated to the Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office. The Spokane Valley Police

Department will use their share for upgrades to the precinct’s security system.

Both council members Wick and Arne Woodard felt the city should have received the funding directly rather than having it pooled with Spokane and the county, but realized there was little choice given the grant’s requirements. Woodard added the city would get more for the money given the Prosecutor’s Office intent to use their funding to hire additional personnel.

Grant awards At the Oct. 24 meeting, council unanimously approved awarding $100,000 in budgeted 2024 grant funds to nine outside agencies providing social services in the Spokane Valley. Those agencies, with “up to” amounts in parenthesis are Christ Kitchen ($5,571), Elevations Childrens Therapy ($15,238), Inland Chess Academy ($1,857), Joya Child & Family Development ($5,757), NAOMI ($9,810), Spokane Valley Partners ($30,982), Teen & Kid Closet ($12,000), Widows Might ($15,714) and YMCA of the Inland Northwest ($3,071).

Council also awarded up to $100,000 in grant funding budgeted in 2024 to eight outside organizations working on economic development projects in the area. Those organizations, with “up to” amounts in parenthesis are Idaho Central Spokane Valley Performing Arts Center ($8,886), JAKT Foundation – CRAVE ($7,857), JAKT Foundation – Farmers Market ($13,600), SNAP Financial Access ($19,171), Spokane Valley Arts Council ($11,000), Spokane Valley Heritage Museum ($18,457), Spokane Valley Summer Theatre ($13,886) and Spokane Workforce Council ($7,143).

At the Oct. 3 meeting, council approved a $471,729 grant allocation to Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (SNAP) to assist the organization in construction of Broadway Senior Housing, a fourstory, 60-unit project providing rental housing and services to seniors with incomes at or below 60% of the area median household income. The funding is part of the $3,998,535 council awarded in May to support affordable housing and homelessness efforts, and comes from the approximately $16 million received from the federal Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund, part of the American Rescue Plan Act.

14

• NOVEMBER 2023

The Current

Be Part of Exploring a Balanced Calendar & Planning for Our Future!

CVSD is recruiting volunteers to explore options to increase learning opportunities & reduce summer learning loss through the possibility of a more balanced calendar.

Find out more information & apply to be on the Balanced Calendar Committee today at: CVSD.org/BalancedCalendar/

AR CALEND

Mock Election Results

On October 23, 2023 at East Valley High School.

Students asked candidates questions they have developed over the last several weeks. At the conclusion of the event all candidates were given a one minute East Valley High School opportunity to address the community in attendance.

2023 Mock Election WithAllthe assistance of the Spokane County ElectionsAll Co Precincts, All Districts, All Counter Groups, All ScanStations, Office we then held a mock election to give students the Total Ballots Cast: 74 opportunity to experience the entire process.

These are Choice Votes Vote % the results of those ballots.

All Precincts Spokane County - Measure No. 1 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 20 undervotes) Yes No Total Overvotes Undervotes

33 21 54 0 20

61.11% 38.89% 100.00%

City of Spokane Valley - Council Position No. 2 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 6 undervotes) Jessica Yaeger Rachel Briscoe Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

Connect with your schools at...

COMMUNITY LINK EVENTS Join us to discover innova ve programs happening inside your neighborhood schools in each of our three Central Valley learning communi es: Ÿ Central - Thurs., Nov. 30, 7:30-9am North Pines MS, 11900 E Broadway Ave, Spokane Valley Ÿ Western - Tues., Dec. 5, 7:30-9am, University HS, 12420 E 32nd Ave, Spokane Valley Ÿ Eastern - Thurs., Dec. 7, 7:30-9am, Ridgeline HS, 20150 E Country Vista Dr, Liberty Lake You are an important link with our schools. We hope to see you there!

RSVP today at: CVSD.org/CommunityLinkEvents/

Everyone is welcome! www.cvsd.org f

You Tube

@cvsdspokane

13 53 2 68 0 6

19.12% 77.94% 2.94% 100.00%

City of Spokane Valley - Council Position No. 3 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 9 undervotes) Al (Albert) Merkel Arne Woodard Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

53 10 2 65 0 9

81.54% 15.38% 3.08% 100.00%

City of Spokane Valley - Council Position No. 6 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 9 undervotes) Rob Chase Tim Hattenburg Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

13 50 2 65 0 9

20.00% 76.92% 3.08% 100.00%

Central Valley School District - Director District No. 1 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 32 undervotes) Jeff Brooks Cindy McMullen Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

25 16 1 42 0 32

59.52% 38.10% 2.38% 100.00%

You Can Read The Greater Spokane Valley Current Online!

Central Valley School District - Director District No. 3 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 34 undervotes)

Follow Us on Facebook To See it First!

Stephanie Jerdon Debra L Long Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

15 24 1 40 0 34

37.50% 60.00% 2.50% 100.00%

www.facebook.com/SpokaneValleyCurrent Central Valley School District - Director District No. 4 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 36 undervotes)

Eat, Shop

City of Spokane Valley - Council Position No. 2 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 6 undervotes)

& Be Merry Eat, Shop Return Jessica Yaeger

The Current Rachel Briscoe Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

13 53 2 68 0 6

19.12% 77.94% 2.94% 100.00%

City of Spokane Valley - Council Position No. 3 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 9 undervotes)

yourSHARE YOUR ballot GIFT IDEA WITH THE Tuesday Nov. VALLEY! 7, 8:00 pm!

Al (Albert) Merkel Arne Woodard Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

53 10 2 65 0 9

for the Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Millwood, Otis Orchards, NewmanNOVEMBER 2023 • 15 Lake and Rockford areas

81.54% 15.38% 3.08% 100.00%

City of Spokane Valley - Council Position No. 6 (Vote for 1) 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 9 undervotes)

Rob Chase 13 20.00% Tim Hattenburg 50 76.92% Write-in 2 3.08% Total 65 100.00% at the shoppers and businesses of the greater Spokane Overvotes 0 Valley — and as a bonus9 we will include your gift idea Undervotes

as part of our story listing can’t-miss local gift ideas.

Central Valley School District - Director District No. 1 (Vote for 1) (Restaurants, don’t feel left out.

You can contribute 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 32 undervotes) a tantalizing menu item to be included in our article Jeff Brooks 25 59.52% on dining out.) Either way, submitted photos are Cindy McMullen 16 38.10% Write-inencouraged!

1 2.38% Total 42 100.00% Overvotes 0 is a special cover section “Eat, Shop and Be Merry” Undervotes that will be included in32 the December issues of both

The Current and The Splash. That’s right — Central Valley School District - Director District No. 3 (Vote for 1) be a part of both publications for one price.

74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 34 undervotes)

A holiday guide for the Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Millwood, Otis Orchards, Newman Lake and Rockford areas

Eat, Shop

& Be Merry

SHARE YOURAdvertising options Advertising options GIFT IDEA WITH THE VALLEY!

& Be Merry 4.83˝w x 5.66˝h

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at the shoppers and businesses of the greater Spokane Valley — and as a bonus we will include your gift idea as part of our story listing can’t-miss local gift ideas.

(Restaurants, don’t feel left out. You can contribute a tantalizing menu item to be included in our article on dining out.) Either way, submitted photos are encouraged!

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throughout the year? You qualify for a discount! Are you 1/4 PAGE: $485 1/2 PAGE: $875 1/2 already running ads with us? YourFULL current discount applies.

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“Eat, Shop and Be Merry” is a special cover section that will be included in the December issues of both The Current and The Splash. That’s right — be a part of both publications for one price.

(normally $790)*

(normally $1440)*

$1650 (normally $1440)* Deadlines (normally $2,700)* Display ad with submitted menu item or gift idea:

November 7 Distribution * Normal rates based upon the typical cost of advertising at that size This guide is strategically scheduled to land November 21 and gift idea or menu item will be printed in both The Splash and The Current. Display ad (submitted 22 — the Monday and Tuesday before Thanksgiving and Small if space is still available): Business Saturday.

November 11

Interested in running inThat’s our publications at other times Reserve your spot today at 509-242-7752 a total of or advertise@valleycurrent.com. throughout the year?39,000 You qualify for a discount!

Are you copies of this holiday guide already running adsdistributed withthroughout us? Your current discount applies.

It will be distributed in The Splash (12,000 copies delivered to every address in Liberty Lake and available for free at more than 120 newsstands through Christmas) as well as The Current (27,000 copies delivered to 20,000 homes in Spokane Valley and at more than 220 newsstands throughout the greater Spokane Valley).

the greater Valley through our alreadypopular monthly publications.

Connecting LOCAL PEOPLE with LOCAL BUSINESSES

Deadlines at the shoppers and businesses of the greater Spokane

“Eat, Shop and Be Merry” is a community-minded project of The Splash and The Current encouraging

spending holiday money.

Display submitted menu item or giftidea idea: Valley — and asada with bonus we will include your gift Stephanie Jerdon 15 37.50% as part of our story listing can’t-miss local gift ideas.

Debra L Long 24 60.00% (Restaurants, don’t feel left out. You can contribute Write-in 1 2.50% a tantalizing menu item to be included East Valley High School Page: 2 in ofour 2 article 509-242-7752 • www.libertylakesplash.com Total This guide is strategically 40 scheduled 100.00% to land November 21 and Display ad (submitted giftsubmitted idea10-23-2023 or menu itemare will be printed 2023 Mock Election on dining out.)

Either way, photos Overvotes 0 22 — the Monday and Tuesday before Thanksgiving and Small All Precincts, All Districts, All All Boxes if space is still available): encouraged!

Undervotes 34Counter Groups, All ScanStations, All Contests, Business Saturday.

Total Ballots Cast: 74 Central Valley School District Director District “Eat, Shop and Be Merry” is a special cover section Choice Votes Vote % No. 4 (Vote for 1) It will bevoted distributed in0 overvotes, 36 undervotes) 74 ballots (0 over ballots, that will be included in the December issues of both Total 38 100.00% AnnieceThe Barker 24 63.16% That’s Reserve spot today The Current and Theyour Splash.

That’s rightat —509-242-7752 Overvotes Splash (12,000 copies 0 Keith L delivered Clark 12 31.58% a total of to every address Undervotes 36 be a part of both publications for one price. or advertise@valleycurrent.com.

Write-in 2 5.26% in Liberty Lake and available 39,000 copies East Valley - Director District No. 1 (Vote forholiday 1) forSchool free atDistrict more than of this guide 74 ballots 120 (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 37 undervotes) newsstands through distributed throughout Theresa Noack 34 91.89% Christmas) as well as The the greater Valley Connecting This guide is strategically scheduled to land November 21 and Write-in 3 8.11% Current (27,000 copies through our already22 — the Monday and Tuesday before Thanksgiving and Small Total 37 100.00% with delivered to 20,000 homes popular monthly Overvotes 0 Business Saturday.

Undervotes in Spokane Valley and at37 publications.

“Eat, Shop and Be Merry” is a community-minded more than 220 newsstands It will be distributed project of TheinSplash and The Current encouraging East Valley School District - Director District No. 2 (Vote for 1) throughout the greater That’s The Splash (12,000 copies 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 37 undervotes) Spokane Valley). a total of delivered to every address Laura Gates 34 91.89% spending holiday money.

Write-in 3 8.11% in Liberty Lake and available 39,000 copies Total 37 100.00% for free at more than of this holiday guide Overvotes 0 120 newsstands through distributed throughout Undervotes 37 Christmas) as well as The the greater Valley Current (27,000 copies through our alreadySpokane Valley Fire District - Commissioner Position No. 5 (Vote for 1) delivered to 20,000 homes popular monthly 74 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 23 undervotes) Rick Freier 40 78.43% in Spokane Valley and at publications.

George Orr 15.69% 509-242-7752 •8www.libertylakesplash.com more than 220 newsstands Write-in 3 5.88% throughout the greater Total 51 100.00% Spokane Valley).

Overvotes 0

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NOVEMBER 2023 • 17

The Current

S P O K A NE CO U NT Y LIB R A RY D I S TRI C T

Turn Your Artwork into Animation Bring your artwork to life! We show you ways to animate your drawings and make them move.

SPOKANE VALLEY LIBRARY Thursday, Nov 16, 3:45–5:45pm This workshop is for all ages, and registration is required.

Sign up at www.scld.org/studio-events.

www.scld.org

18

LIBRARY

• NOVEMBER 2023

Discover the Possibilities of Google Suite for Your Small Business

Get Medicare enrollment information, oneon-one help at the library

By Crystal Miller, librarian Spokane County Library District

You can get up-to-date information about Medicare open enrollment, costs, and coverage at two upcoming library programs during November.

The information session “Medicare Open Enrollment: What you Need to Know” is at Argonne Library (4322 N Argonne Rd) on Monday, November 6, at 1pm.

Sign up for this free, unbiased presentation that focuses on Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage Plans.

In order to change your Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plan for 2024, you must make changes during Open Enrollment from October 15 to December 7, 2023.

Gain valuable skills during this SCORE business workshop: • • • •

Optimize your productivity Streamline your workflows Enhance collaboration Effectively manage your tasks and projects

ONLINE WORKSHOP Thursday, Nov 16, 12–1:30pm Sign up today at www.scld.org/google-suite.

www.scld.org

The STCU Studio has state-of-theart audio-visual equipment for public use

By Erin Dodge Current Guest Correspondent

Nestled inside the new Spokane Valley Library is a technological gem—The STCU Studio.

This creative space includes professional video and audio equipment, a recording space equipped with a green screen and other backgrounds, and a control room with computers, sound boards, and multiplex controls for editing and mixing.

The STCU Studio is a place where you can explore your creative ideas for video recording, photography, podcasts, and sound production. To schedule a tour and learn more about reserving the space, you can stop by Spokane Valley Library (22 N Herald Rd), email studiosv@scld.org, or call 509-893-8400.

Along with reserving The STCU Studio for your personal projects,

During this session, you’ll learn about who is eligible and what options are available to you. The presenter will also cover what you can do during open enrollment, how you can choose and change plans, what Medigaps are and how they work, what the qualifications are for programs to help you pay for Medicare, and what Medicare fraud looks like so you can protect your benefits.

You can sign up for this Medicare information session by going online to www.scld.org/ medicare-workshops or by calling the library at 509.893.8400 and asking our library staff to help you sign up.

For personalized help, you can sign up for one of the “Medicare Open Enrollment One-on-One Sessions” taking place on Thursday, November 9, between 1pm and 4pm at Spokane Valley Library (22 N Herald Rd).

Costs and coverage for Part D plans and the Medicare Advantage plan can change every year, so it

The Current

is important to review your plans for 2024. Any changes you want to make need to be submitted during the open-enrollment period, which goes through December 7.

During the one-on-one session, a trained volunteer helps you research, assess, and evaluate what options work best for you and your needs. You will need to call 509.777.1592 to schedule your one-on-one appointment. To get the most out of your session, please bring your Medicare card and a list of your current prescriptions to your appointment.

The library partners with the Statewide Health Insurance Benefit Advisor (SHIBA) program to offer unbiased Medicare programs.

SHIBA is sponsored locally by Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington (ALTCEW).

SHIBA is a free service that can help you research, assess, and evaluate healthcare options that work best for you and your needs, so you can make informed decisions.

you can attend workshops focused on specific creative exploration as well as general and specific audiovisual discussions.

4:30pm, to explore various types of documentaries and how to define a theme and message to help you craft compelling stories.

Kids ages 8 to 12 can sign up for two creative projects: “Running a Newsroom” and “LEGO StopMotion Animation”. Learn all about on-air journalism in a simulated newsroom with weather updates, sports coverage, and human-interest stories. Create a short stop-motion movie with LEGO mini figures as they move, jump, and talk to each other to bring your story idea to life.

The “Audio-Visual Club” meets weekly on Saturdays at 4:30pm, except for Veterans Day on November 11, to explore different topics together. Some sessions have planned topics, while others are open to discuss your ideas and review concepts. In November, take a deep dive into audio during a discussion about sound mixing, proper microphone usage, and free sound editing software. You can also brighten up your video and photography during a session about lighting and light balancing.

Starting November 2, all ages can submit their video creations to our “Call for Submissions: LEGO Stop-Motion Movies”. The “LEGO Stop-Motion Movie Screening & Celebration” takes place in January 2024, and you can learn more at www.scld.org/stop-motionscreening.

Discover how to bring your drawings to life during the all-ages workshop “Turn Your Artwork into Animation” on Thursday, November 16, at 3:45pm.

Adults can get an “Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking” on Thursday, November 9, at

Most of these workshops for kids, families, and adults require registration. Though, the weekly Audio-Visual Club for adults is a drop-in session with no registration. Learn more at www. scld.org/studio-events.

The STCU Studio and its equipment and technology are made possible by the generous support of STCU. You can visit STCU online and learn about the ways they support the community at stcu.org.

NOVEMBER 2023 • 19

The Current

OPENING SUMMER 2024!

The Idaho Central Spokane Valley Performing Arts Center (ICSVPAC) is a privately-funded 59,000 square foot facility with a 463-seat Main Stage Theatre, a 220-seat flexible Studio Theatre, an Acting Conservatory for area youth, as well as event/business meeting space.

Construction is on-track for opening in Summer of 2024.

Once open, ICSVPAC will permanently house the region’s premier professional theatre company, Spokane Valley Summer Theatre.

Naming rights & donation opportunities are still available! Contact our Capital Campaign Director Georgia Oxford at georgia@icsvpac.com for more details or scan the QR code below:

DIRECTED BY YVONNE A.K. JOHNSON MUSIC DIRECTION BY ANDREA OLSEN | 17-PIECE BIG BAND CONDUCTED BY DAVID BREWSTER KYLE ADAMS MELODY CHANG DOUG DAWSON

CHARLES FLETCHER DAN GRIFFITH CALLIE MCKINNEY-CABE

STARRING ALEXIS MEEKER GATIEH NACARIO ANDREA OLSEN

DREW OLSEN DARNELLE PRESTON MARNIE RORHOLM

MICHAEL RORHOLM LANDON TOTH

FEATURING

THE PINETONES

DIRECTED BY HEATHER BROWN, PONDEROSA ELEMENTARY

DAVID AND CHRISTINA LYNCH

REEDS KEN BURGER BRANDON CAMPBELL CRAIG CATLETT SHEILA MCCALLUM MERILEE UPDIKE

TRUMPETS WILLIAM BERRY TERRY JONES BRENDAN MCMURPHY BRIAN PLOEGER

TROMBONES ERRECK CONLEY MARC HOUDAYER CHRIS POOLE TIM SANDFORD

SCOTT MICHAELSEN, keys ART CORCORAN, guitar ROB PETERSEN, bass TAYLOR BELOTE, drums

DECEMBER 15-17, 2023 | svsummertheatre.com | 509-368-7897

20

• NOVEMBER 2023

The Crest

The Current Brought to you by

effort is most evident in the Turkey Drive is a testament to Tom For those who prefer the Spreading numbers. In 2022, Tom's Turkey Sherry's unwavering dedication convenience of purchasing a served thousands of families and the steadfast support of the Thanksgiving meal, various Thanksgiving Drive in need, providing a staggering Spokane community. Together, they grocery stores across Spokane 11,000 Thanksgiving meals during have turned this initiative into a Valley will offer meal boxes for significant and enduring charitable purchase. Keep an eye out for Joy in Spokane the drive.

To participate in this event in Spokane. It's a beautiful Walmart's Thanksgiving feast cost Valley heartwarming tradition, there expression of the city's compassion, announcement on November 1st. proving that everyone, regardless According to the CEO, the cost is

By Ashley Humbird Current contributor

In the heart of Spokane, Washington, a heartwarming tradition known as Tom's Turkey Drive has been lighting up the lives of local residents for over two decades. This charitable initiative, conceived by the dedicated meteorologist Tom Sherry, aims to provide Thanksgiving meals to those in need, fostering a true sense of community and compassion.

In 2000, Tom Sherry had a vision: a vision of ensuring that no one in the Spokane community went without a traditional Thanksgiving meal, regardless of their financial circumstances. From this vision, Tom's Turkey Drive was born, and it quickly became an annual tradition in the area.

At the core of Tom's Turkey Drive lies the noble objective of collecting donations, with a particular focus on turkeys and other essential food items. The aim is to distribute these items to families who may struggle to afford a Thanksgiving feast. Tom's Turkey Drive is not a solitary effort; it's a collaborative venture that includes KREM 2, Second Harvest, Rosauers, and other local partners. The lifeblood of this initiative, however, comes from the generous contributions of community members.

Over the years, Tom's Turkey Drive has grown, evolving into a multifaceted endeavor that incorporates various events and activities designed to raise both awareness and donations. From turkey drop-off locations and fundraisers to engaging live broadcasts, the drive's impact has been profound. In fact, the "Tom’s Turkey Drive T-Shirt Contest" has recently concluded, and the winning design is soon to be unveiled.

The culmination of this collective

are various ways to contribute.

For example, you can visit your neighborhood Rosauers and easily add a meal for $25 to your grocery bill, either online or in-person.

Alternatively, direct donations can be made to Second Harvest by sending a check to their address at 1234 E. Front Ave, Spokane, WA 99203.

This year's Thanksgiving meal distribution will take place at the Spokane County Fairgrounds on Tuesday, November 21st. Specific times will be announced closer to the event, with special accommodations for community members who rely on public transportation. The meals are a generous assortment that includes turkeys, Franz rolls, stuffing, Darigold milk, apples, potatoes, green beans, pears, and more. It's a complete Thanksgiving feast that ensures no one is left hungry or wanting during the holiday season.

The enduring success of Tom's

of their financial circumstances, can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal.

This year, with the rising cost of necessities, the demand for Thanksgiving meals is expected to be greater than ever. However, there's a silver lining to this challenge. Last year's increased turkey prices were partly due to concerns about bird flu. As of now, turkey prices have significantly dropped, offering hope for a more affordable Thanksgiving meal.

If you are unable to attend Tom's Turkey Drive, there are alternative options to ensure you and your loved ones enjoy a delightful Thanksgiving meal. Otis Orchards Adventist will be distributing boxed dinners on November 22nd at 4308 N. Harvard Rd., and Greater Spokane Meals on Wheels will provide meals at multiple locations across Greater Spokane on the same day.

expected to be even more budgetfriendly than last year.

Additionally, Yokes, a locallyowned grocery store, will release their monthly guide featuring sale prices leading up to Thanksgiving, starting on November 1st.

In Spokane, the spirit of Thanksgiving thrives not only in the warmth of family gatherings but also in the embrace of a compassionate community that ensures everyone has a place at the table. Tom's Turkey Drive and these alternative options exemplify the true essence of the holiday season – sharing, caring, and gratitude.

From more information on the resources available and updated distribution times of meals visit https://www.krem.com/tomsturkey-drive. We hope that all of our community members will be able to feel valued and cared for this holiday season. Happy Thanksgiving

NOVEMBER 2023 • 21

The Current

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• NOVEMBER 2023

The Current

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Slowpitch softball gains momentum as prime time fall sport

By Craig Howard

Current Contributing Editor

The coach from Bothell High School was incredulous.

How could Central Valley – their opponent in the state 4A slowpitch softball quarterfinals two years ago – be listed as a No. 7 seed?

“He said, ‘You’re a seventh seed?

Your league must be really tough,’” recalls CV head coach Joe Stanton. “I said, ‘It’s tough.’”

The Bears represented the Greater Spokane League in style, trouncing the Cougars 15-1 to move on to the championship game.

CV entered the state bracket that October with a humble 12-8 record but went on to finish runner-up among 4A clubs. Since 2019, the Bears have won the 4A crown once and placed second twice.

Stanton said the rigors of the GSL prepare teams well for any challenge.

“This league takes slowpitch seriously,” he said. “We’ve been competitive from the get-go.”

The “get-go” was 2005 when slowpitch joined football, cross country, girls’ soccer and volleyball as part of the fall sports prep lineup. Ken Van Sickle, then serving as athletic director at University High School, remembers slowpitch starting as more of a “rec league.”

CV, U-Hi, Mead, Mt. Spokane, East Valley and Gonzaga Prep fielded the first teams. Since there was no state bracket and the sport was not certified by the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) at the time, there was little chance to determine how local teams might fare against teams from across the state.

“We played for several years but didn’t know how good we were,” Van Sickle said.

That changed after Van Sickle started presenting the idea of a state slowpitch tournament at meetings of statewide

activities directors. The Greater St. Helens League in Vancouver had launched a league with Camas emerging as the elite program. Van Sickle proposed the idea of a “quasi-state tournament” with the top four teams from the GSL pitted against their counterparts from the GSHL. Games would take place in the Tri-Cities. Camas hadn’t lost before play began but it was quickly apparent that Washington’s slowpitch pacesetters were from Spokane.

“The GSL teams dominated,” Van Sickle said.

In 2019, with slowpitch entrenched as an WIAA-sanctioned sport, a state tournament premiered with two brackets – 4A and a combined 2A/3A division.

Central Valley won the first trophy on the 4A side while Mt. Spokane captured the 2A/3A championship.

U-Hi has emerged as the class of the 2A/3A field since then, winning the last two state titles. Last season, the Titans rolled through the regular season with an unblemished record but were upset by Mt. Spokane at districts. The defending champs battled through the losers bracket to earn a repeat trip to state. In Yakima, U-Hi displayed its championship

pedigree, defeating Juanita, Mt. Spokane and Mead to earn a second straight title.

Not only have the Titans and Bears established themselves as two of the top slowpitch programs in the state, the crosstown Valley rivals also have the distinction of launching the sport’s most recognized traditions each autumn. The “Fall Ball Brawl” began as a matchup between CV and U-Hi under portable lights that turned each home diamond and the accompanying games into an illuminated spectacle.

The concept has since expanded into a larger event at Dwight Merkel Sports Complex in northwest Spokane featuring some of the GSL’s most storied rivalries like Lewis and Clark/Ferris and Mead/ Mt. Spokane along with CV/U-Hi. “It’s an incredible atmosphere,” Van Sickle said.

Many, but not all, slowpitch players also compete in fastpitch during the spring. Some fastpitch players participate in sports like soccer and volleyball in the fall. Other fastpitch players pass on slowpitch. CV senior Sofia Morales, an All-GSL selection in slowpitch and

Contributed photo University High senior Natalie Singer has been part of two consecutive state slowpitch state titles since 2021. The Titans advanced to the state bracket with a 9-5 win over Walla Walla on Oct. 18 and captured the District 8 2A/3A title with a 12-5 victory against Mt. Spokane on Oct. 20.

fastpitch, said the fall version of the game is “fun and more laid back” than the spring version.

“You know you’re going to get a hit in slowpitch,” Morales said. “It’s a confidence booster. In fastpitch, a pitcher can dominate a game. That doesn’t happen in slowpitch.”

Morales said she prefers the pace of fastpitch, which unlike slowpitch, allows stolen bases, leading off and bunting.

She added GSL’s dominance in slowpitch can be traced to the aggressive approach each team takes at the plate.

“In the GSL, we play completely different from the way other teams do,” Morales said.

The Bears punched their ticket to state on Oct. 20 with a 7-6 win over Lewis and Clark in Pasco. Cora Donley clinched the victory with a walk-off single in the bottom of the seventh, her third hit and second RBI of the game. CV gave defending 4A champ Chiawana a scare in the District 8 4A game earlier that day, dropping a 3-0 decision.

After losing twice to Mt. Spokane in the regular season, U-Hi defeated the Wildcats 12-5 on Oct. 20 for the District 8 2A/3A crown. Abby Watkins led the Titans’ charge with four hits, including three home runs and six RBIs. Hailey Walker added four hits and Kaidyn Howard collected three.

CV will be part of the eight-team state 4A bracket Oct. 27-28 at Gateway Sports Complex in Yakima. University will seek a third straight title against the state’s best on the 2A/3A side.

Sofia Morales earned All Greater Spokane League fastpitch softball first team honors as a junior for Central Valley this spring. Playing third base for the Bears, Morales hit .529, had an on-base percentage of .636, hit seven doubles and had 26 runs batted in. She struck out only once in 51 at-bats. “My sophomore year, I struck out a lot,” Morales said. “It was my goal to get better.” The Greenacres resident has earned six varsity letters between slowpitch and fastpitch and was named First Team All GSL last fall in slowpitch.

In fastpitch, she was honorable mention as a freshman and second team as a sophomore. Morales is part of the Spokane Diamonds, a fastpitch club team. “Sofia is clutch and consistent,” said CV Head Coach Joe Stanton. Morales volunteers for Bears Support Bears, a program to promotes school involvement.

NOVEMBER 2023 • 23

The Current

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• NOVEMBER 2023

ON THAT NOTE

Providing a second chance: Despite opposition, Reclaim Project Recovery pushing ahead with transitional housing plans, Valley work force development

By John McCallum Current contributor

The city of Spokane Valley recently found out how much of a lightning rod for citizen outrage the potential siting of transitional housing for individuals leaving incarceration and/or treatment facilities can be.

When residents of a neighborhood northeast of MacDonald Elementary School discovered such a facility might be planned for a 1,614-squarefoot home on the corner of East 11th Avenue and Blake, they fought back by appearing at several City Council meetings to — in some cases forcefully and emotionally – make their concerns public.

Comments ranged from property value declines, safety of area children to less-founded accusations

surrounding who might be living in the home.

Reclaim Project Recovery — the nonprofit looking to site a transitional home in Spokane Valley — understands these concerns, and co-founders Shawn Kingsbury and Aaron Allen hope to work with the city and residents to address them.

But they also believe providing housing and skills — both life and employment — for men facing issues with addiction recovery and former incarceration is a better solution, not only for the men but society as a whole.

“These are your sons, they’re your nephews, they’re your fathers,” Kingsbury said. “Getting these guys off of the streets, out of the parks and into the community, it outweighs the issues of transitional housing by far.”

Reclaiming lives Reclaim Project Recovery is a non-profit started in May 2022 that is actually several organizations combined. Reclaim Project Recovery is designed to give men recovering from addiction, homelessness and incarceration “free, life-affirming physical activities such as yoga, strength training, running” and more, along with instruction in developing good nutrition and sleep habits with life skills to “strengthen overall health and wellness.”

Pura Vida Sober Living, started in 2014 by Kingsbury when he was rebuilding his life after years of drug and alcohol abuse, provides skills to help men in a “sustainable recovery.” These include classes and workshops on addiction support, wellness programs and community building, along with peer-to-peer relationship building.

Revival General Contracting is a construction company providing commercial and residential renovations, doors, decks, siding and windows along with interior and exterior painting, landscaping and other services. It partners with Reclaim Project Recovery and Pura Vida Sober Living to train men in these programs in construction trades to create opportunities for meaningful employment.

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The final piece is a retail branch that includes a new thrift store in Spokane Valley on Sprague at the site of the former Greenacres Vendor Mall next to URM. Kingsbury said this location will also provide training and construction services for tiny houses, sheds, tilt-up panels and furniture work.

“What we do falls under work force development as much as it does as help with sober living,” Kingsbury said.

Reclaim Project Recovery accepts men who have been sober and are trying to stay that way. About 40% have emerged from incarceration, with another 40% coming out of substance abuse treatment programs, 15% trying to escape living on the streets and 5% from family settings.

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“These guys choose to be here, DOC (Washington State Department of Corrections) doesn’t send them to us,” Allen said. “These guys seek us out for a chance at a better life.”

The programs are designed to meet two basic needs: the first being shelter and income and the second creating a new sense of purpose and belonging. Men are required to take at least two classes per week, classes that include Bible study and community engagement, work and abstain from any substance use.

Branching out meets resistance Headquartered on West Broadway in Spokane, Reclaim Project has 29 transitional properties providing 140 private bedrooms for men in the program, with several dozen on waiting lists to get in. These properties are found throughout Spokane in neighborhoods such as West Central, Emerson-Garfield, Hillyard, lower South Hill and Five Mile along with Vinegar Flats in the Latah Valley and in Airway Heights.

Driving by some of these properties, one would never know they are any different than other houses around them. The only way someone would know they are sober-living transitional homes is to have the address from Reclaim Project.

The city of Spokane Valley began contracting with Reclaim Project over a year ago for work crews to clear weeds and debris along streets and city property during summer and snow removal in winter after it lost access to similar crews from Geiger Corrections Center. Hoping to create more of a community presence and provide a resource City Council has indicated is needed in Spokane Valley, the organization applied for, and after an extensive interview process that included public input, received a grant from Spokane Valley designated for Covid-19 relief through the American Rescue Plan Act — one of five nonprofits to receive a total of $4 million.

A June 12 news release said Reclaim Project was awarded $1.46 million in funding to “acquire and startup two sober living transitional homes and a multipurpose business operation facility.”

“Focusing solely on chronic homelessness requires infinite funding, because it’s chronic,” Mayor Pam Haley said in the release.

See RECLAIM, Page 27

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NOVEMBER 2023 • 25

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RECLAIM

Continued from page 24 “We will contract with service providers that provide a path out.”

Reclaim Project used some of the funding to lease the thrift store/ training facility space next to URM. They also purchased and began remodeling the house at 13513 E. 11th, hoping to eventually turn it into one of the two transitional housing spaces.

Neighbors in the area however got wind of what the home might be used for, possibly from someone noticing a DOC vehicle parked there one day and making an inquiry about the property.

Whatever the reason, neighborhood residents and other community members approached City Council at the Sept. 12 meeting to express outrage and concerns above the possible location of transitional housing. At the meeting, and over the next several meetings, residents concerns ranged from a decrease in property values from the siting of a transitional house to activities of some of the residents to accusing Reclaim Project of providing shelter for “convicted felons,” “hardened criminals” and “the worst of the worst” with “98 – 99 % recidivism rates.”

One resident, Terry LaLonde, wanted council to know “Who these guys are coming out of our prisons,” and presented recidivism statistics from various sources to council at subsequent meetings.

Valley resident John Harding urged council at its Sept. 12 meeting to “stand up” to the state and get an injunction prohibiting the location of transitional housing in the city.

ON THAT NOTE based practices” that might be required.

“This depends on their sentence and whether or not the court determined they are required to complete a treatment program,” DOC Deputy Communications Director Rachel Ericson said in an email. “The assigned Community Corrections Officer (CCO) can impose conditions while on supervision that require participation in treatment, aftercare, continuing care.”

Because of the neighborhood outcry and conflicting information regarding those who might be housed in the East 11th Avenue home, Reclaim Project sent the city a letter on Sept. 14 that it would “not be applying for a permit” to use the home as a transitional living facility and would be putting it up for “immediate resale.”

As of Oct. 25, there was no “For Sale” sign at the property, and according to the county’s property information website, Scout.com, it is still owned by Reclaim Project.

“A blessing to the community” Both Kingsbury and Allen put the furor over the home on East 11th squarely on their own shoulders, noting they were unfamiliar with Spokane Valley’s processes and more so with the city of Spokane’s, which they say is somewhat easier.

They plan to take a step back and work with the city on future locations, which they said they need to have near resources such as jobs

and transportation.

“We want to bring good workers to the Valley,” Kingsbury said. “We just need a place to house them somewhere.”

Spokane Valley City Services Administrator Gloria Mantz said state law requires jurisdictions to provide for the location of services such as transitional housing and emergency shelters “wherever there is residential use or a hotel.”

In the city’s municipal codes, this is allowed in any R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4 or NC (noncommercial) zone.

“Basically, they can take any location as a transitional home, but they do have to follow a process,” Mantz said.

That process is detailed in Chapter 19.45, Community Services, and requires the property owners to address many elements such as identifying staffing, specifying number of residents (not to exceed 10), occupancy policies, lighting and security systems and parking. It also requires outreach to surrounding property owners about how the property will serve the population to be accommodated, reporting of concerns and other information measures and public meetings.

Mantz said the city will work with Reclaim Project once they identify a new location for a transitional home, including hosting a future town hall meeting to address citizen concerns.

“It (transitional housing) is something that is needed,” she added.

NOVEMBER 2023 • 27

Kingsbury and Allen hope a meeting will provide an educational opportunity as well as to who will be living in the proposed home.

Allen said their program does not accept sex offenders or other formerly incarcerated individuals convicted of major, more violent felonies. He added many are single dads trying to restart their lives, and Reclaim Project has the ability to weed out individuals who aren’t sober and aren’t willing to remain so and change their lives.

“We strike a balance of accountability with support,” Kingsbury added. “As long as they’re moving forward. That’s our rule, as long as they are moving forward in life. We believe these men can change. We’ve seen their change.”

Allen said some of the men have been in the program for two years or more, while others are successful in their efforts and leave after a couple of months. There have been instances where men have been asked to leave the program because they fell out of their sobriety efforts, but if they return to treatment and succeed in their treatment, they can return.

“We want to be a blessing to the Valley,” Allen said, adding if people want to learn more about Reclaim Project, especially volunteering opportunities, they can check out their website and Facebook pages.

According to statistics from the state DOC, while recidivism rates vary across a variety of factors such as type of crime and demographics of offenders, the traditional rate of recidivism in the state is approximately 30% within the first three years of release, but 11.2% as of 2019 for the number of released offenders returning to incarceration within the first year of release when compared to the total number of those released that year.

Keeping this rate down, and possibly reducing it further, depends on a number of factors, including beginning transition resource programs 18 – 24 months before release and “utilization of reentry programs and evidence-

Photo by John McCallum Shawn Kingsbury (left) and Aaron Allen (right) are the co-founders of Reclaim Project Recovery.

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