2024 September Current by The Current

RIVER CROSSING

Guiding Principal –Louie leads CVHS with focus, energy

By Craig Howard

Current Contributing Editor

It was one of those make-orbreak moments for Katie Louie early in her career. The result would all boil down to the method she used in answering the question.

Interviewing for the position of full-time math instructor at Central Valley High School not far removed from earning her diploma in the same subject at Washington State University, Louie was asked how she would go about teaching linear functions.

“I asked if I could use a whiteboard and a pen,” Louie recalls. “I knew it was either going to go over well or completely flop.”

Louie was offered the job shortly after, embarking on a professional journey in education that has seen her rise to assistant principal and now principal at one of the region’s most recognized and respected high schools. At 39, she is one of the youngest leading administrators in Washington.

“My hope is that I can impact more kids because I can impact more teachers,” Louie says of her transition from the classroom to the principal’s office.

Growing up on the west side of the state in Bothell, Louie knew early on she wanted to be a teacher. At 7, she asked for a whiteboard and markers for Christmas. Microscopes and chemistry sets also found their way onto gift wish lists. Stuffed animals were recruited as students when she held court as a teacher.

While neither of her parents worked in education, Louie said she and her older sister Teresa –who now also serves as a principal – always felt supported in their academic pursuits and quests to earn a living in the classroom.

“We had the best opportunities growing up,” she said.

Louie was an honor student in high school graduating just shy of a 4.0 grade point average. She served as captain of the cheer squad, wrote for the school paper, sang for the choir and was involved in leadership at her church. She also played softball and participated in track.

When it came time to go to college, Louie headed across the mountains to Pullman.

“My sister was a Husky fan, so maybe that’s why I decided to root for WSU, just to be different,” Louie said. “It’s important to leave home. Pullman was the farthest away I could go and still pay in-state tuition.”

Louie thrived in the college environment, teaching a Freshman Seminar class along with her studies. She also signed on as a volunteer teacher at a Montessori

school and was a teacher’s assistant at WSU in several math classes.

When she graduated with a degree in math in the spring of 2007, Louie was ready to hit the ground running. She latched on with the Mead School District that fall as a student teacher and substitute at Mt. Spokane and Mead high schools, respectively. A long-term substitute role followed with CVSD at University High.

The last day of school at U-Hi in spring of 2008, Louie was asked to teach summer school. It was during that time that she learned of a fulltime opening as an integrated math teacher for ninth and 10th graders at CV. By fall of 2008, she was part of the permanent staff.

While at CV, Louie completed an administrative internship with the support of then-Principal Mike Hittle. By June 2015, she was

working as an assistant principal, a role that lasted six years before an offer came to step into the principal’s position at Spokane Valley Tech, a STEM-based CVSD choice school. With her math background and burgeoning administrative skill set, the job was an ideal fit. She was only 36 at the time.

Then in January 2023, Louie’s husband experienced a serious medical challenge that would cause him to require intensive care and recovery for an extended period. Louie tried to maintain work and juggle caregiving duties for a brief time but soon realized she would need to request a leave of absence from SVT. Her support system at CVSD stepped up in droves.

“Everyone at the district was incredible,” Louie said. “I can’t say enough about how supported we felt.”

For an ambitious, driven person who had risen the ladder in her profession at a rapid pace, the scenario presented a new set of adjustments. Louie said the next seven months brought a shift in perspective.

“I think it does help you slow down and realize what’s actually important,” she said. “You figure out pretty quickly what matters and what doesn’t. At the end of the day, you have people who love and care about you. There was a lot of prayer during that time, a lot of hope and faith. Never once, did I think he wasn’t going to make it.”

By August 2023 with her husband’s condition stabilized, Louie returned to work. Just a few days later, she was named interim principal at CV.

“I thought I was tough before,” Louie said of the experience helping her husband return to health and resume his work. “But this was another level. I do think it meant me being able to help and guide others going through similar struggles.”

In March, the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce named Louie Educator of the Year in CVSD, describing how she “has stepped into multiple leadership

See LOUIE, Page 4

Photo by Craig Howard

Katie Louie began her career at the Central Valley School District as a math teacher in the fall of 2008 and now serves as principal at the campus on Sullivan Road. The Bothell native graduated from Washington State University and has her master’s in Educational Leadership from City University. Earlier this year she was named CVSD Educator of the Year by the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce.

LOUIE

Continued from page 2 roles and is known for her decisive and energetic leadership which has significantly improved school culture and community engagement.” Louie is also a multiple recipient of the district’s Meritorious Service Award.

With the arrival of a new school year, Louie and her staff at CV are marching into their tasks with a theme of “Commitment” along with a campus of some 1,300 students.

“I work with a lot of gifted and skilled people,” Louie said.

When not leading a high school, Louie enjoys reading, baking and running. A half-marathon experience from a few years ago spoke to the resilience that has become her trademark. After falling and breaking her kneecap, Louie finished the 13.1-mile course and reported to her chaperone duties at CV’s Homecoming celebration that night.

“I told the doctor, ‘I might have been injured but I’m not a quitter,” Louie said.

pre-existing affiliation with either school. My love for WSU really started as a friendly rivalry with my sister and a teacher at our elementary school, who was also a big WSU fan and I chose his side. That just stayed with me as I grew up. I remember people that just had a love for WSU. Seeing the camaraderie and companionship of WSU fans was pretty incredible and no matter where you go, you find Cougs. I also wanted to branch out away from home and stretch myself in that way. Pullman was the perfect place to do that and I could always fall back on UW if it didn’t work out.

Q: Looking back, how did your time in Pullman impact the course of your personal and professional future?

Q: Math is a subject that generally doesn’t generate much middle ground with most people. Typically, you either like it and have an aptitude or struggle and avoid it as much as possible. When did you realize you were not only good at math but may want to teach it someday?

A: If math had feelings, I think it would often be saddened by the way people shy away from it and make assumptions or latch onto stereotypes that they cannot do it. I am not sure I ever knew I was better at math than other subjects, I just knew I enjoyed doing. I always had great teachers but really it was my high school Calculus teacher, Mr. Sanford, who fueled the passion to teach math. He really demonstrated what it meant to not only teach math but help students find ways to be successful at it. Leaving that class with a sense of accomplishment made me want to share that with other students.

Q: Growing up on the west side of the state in Husky country, I’m guessing you were not among the majority as a Washington State fan. How did that happen and why did you decide to enroll at WSU?

A: Our family isn’t from Washington so we didn’t have a

A: Pullman honestly helped shape me into the leader I am today. I am fairly introverted and my time in my sorority and leading classes, as a teaching Assistant and Freshman Seminar Instructor, challenged me and helped me grow in so many ways. For one, I could not speak in public. While it still is not something I consider comfortable, it is not as scary now.

Q: You were fortunate to land part-time teaching positions at two Spokane-area school districts -- Mead and Central Valley - after college. As you taught math at the high school level early on, did you know that this level was going to be the best fit for you?

A: After I completed my student teaching, I was very lucky to be able to complete some longterm substitute jobs and they both solidified my belief that high school is the right age group for me. High school is such a formidable time for young people and I am truly honored to be able to be a part of that. There is something about witnessing a student discover who they are that gives the work purpose for me. When a student shares about their first job or getting a driver’s license, earning a role in the school play or getting a new PR on the track, you get to see the joy and excitement. I love to see students take on challenges and find ways to succeed.

Q: Some teachers aspire for administrator roles while others are content to spend their careers in the classroom? What was the turning point for you in transitioning to a vice-principal/ principal track?

A: In all honesty, being an administrator was not something I saw in the cards for me as a teacher. When I decided to get my master’s degree I chose administration to keep future doors open, far in the future doors. I was able to complete my internship at Central Valley High School and right near the end of that time we had an administrator in our building retire. I took a risk and applied for the job knowing that experiencing the process would be beneficial. My personal philosophy is to leave a job when you love it, so the memories are fond and I absolutely loved teaching. I was surprised when I got the call about the assistant principal’s job and I am incredibly thankful that CV took a chance on me. Hopefully I have been able to make a positive impact beyond just the classroom walls in which I was serving.

Q: What were some of the most rewarding aspects of your two years as principal at Spokane Valley Tech?

A: Spokane Valley Tech is a really special place. It’s a small community where you get to know each student on a personal level and see them bring their ideas to life. I am in awe of what those students can accomplish and create. I encourage everyone to check out the end of year Tradeshow and see it for yourself. When I got to SVT we were starting to come back from COVID restrictions and it took some time to get back to the handson nature of learning that SVT was designed for. I cannot say enough positive things about the SVT staff and their ability to provide opportunities for students that really launch them into the future. Even though most of the teachers are the only one in their subject area, that staff comes together to care for and serve students. They had some of the best collaborative conversations I have seen.

Q: You and your husband went through a rigorous seven months or so as he was recovering from a serious medical issue. How would you describe the support you received from the Central Valley School District family during that time?

A: In January 2023 our world essentially stopped spinning for a while. My husband and I both love to work and serve, but life forced us to step away and redirect our focus for a while. Both his company

and CVSD wrapped their arms around us, particularly me, as we faced some pretty challenging circumstances. When you go through difficult times, you learn who your support system is and I cannot put into words what the CVSD community did for me. Many of them followed our journey daily and made sure we were not alone. When we needed something, it was taken care of. That first call I made to tell them that I needed to step back was really hard for me, but the response was just “Tell us what you need.” Our experience had a really positive outcome and reflecting back on the commitment CVSD made to support us is something that really sticks with me. I will never be able to properly thank them for that care but I also will never forget it.

Q: As another school year is set to begin, what are you looking forward to most at Central Valley High School as you and your fellow staff take on “Commitment” as your new mantra?

A: I chose education so that I can positively impact the lives and learning of students. Each year we only get 180 days, 180 opportunities, to do so. Our staff is incredible. I look forward each year to seeing the connections made and the relationships that come from our staff ensuring all students have someone in their corner. All of us had someone that took time and committed to us. Mr. Sanford was one of those people for me but my list is long. I hope each of our students at CV knows their list of committed adults is long, too.

Q: Finally, I get the sense that you have a real joy for life and just a genuine sense of gratitude for every day you get to experience. Where does that come from and how does that perspective influence who you are in all walks of life?

A: I think I have always had a zest for life and tried to be appreciative of the opportunities I have been afforded, which has only been enhanced through our recent challenges. I don’t believe in bad days. For me, everything happens for a reason and there is purpose in our experiences. I do my best to focus on what I can control and let go of what I can’t. In the end, there is so much to be thankful for each day and I hope I present myself with a grateful heart.

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 4562233, if not in progress, to report a crime.

28-Aug: Vehicle Crashes into Spokane Valley Mall - Driver Transported to Hospital with Minor Injuries

Just before 1:30 am the Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to reports of a vehicle that had crashed into the JCPenney store located at the Spokane Valley Mall on the 14700 block of E. Indiana Ave. Spokane Valley Deputies reported that a vehicle had driven through the exterior wall on the north side of the building and was now partially inside the store.

With more information from law enforcement on scene, the initial call was quickly upgraded to a heavy rescue response, adding specialized resources and more personnel. Within minutes, Spokane Valley Fire units arrived and found the vehicle inside the store with one patient unresponsive in the back seat. Crews entered the store, while firefighters worked to reach and provide care to the patient inside the vehicle.

Cutting the headrests in the back seat, firefighters safely removed the patient through the back window of the vehicle. That patient was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Thankfully, there was no one in the store at the time of the crash and there were no injuries to firefighters. The vehicle was removed, and the hole left in the exterior wall of the building was boarded up.

18-Aug: Fatal Shooting at Trent Avenue/Argonne Road - Suspect Located and Arrested

At approximately 4:10 pm, Spokane Valley Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a reported shooting at Trent Ave. and Argonne Road. An adult male victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. The adult male suspect fled in his vehicle, which was quickly located at his residence, and he was arrested. This shooting is actively being investigated by Major Crimes Detectives with the assistance of the Washington State Patrol.

16-Aug: Porch Fire Burns Into Home - Home on Campbell impacted by fire

At approximately 7:00 am SVFD responded to a reported house fire at 5015 N Campbell Rd. Fire reported started from back porch and extended into home.

SVFD Engine arrived within minutes and reported a fire located on the back porch burning up the outside wall of the residence. Crews made a quick knock down of the outside fire and entered the structure to search for occupants and extension of fire in structure. An attic fire was confirmed, and interior crews began pulling ceiling down near where the fire had moved into the attic space, Ladder crews accessed the roof and cut open ventilation holes to allow for smoke and products of combustion to exit the structure and to improve visibility inside structure from the original smoke build up. The attic fire was brought under control moments later. There is fire, smoke and water damage to the structure and SVFD command staff were working to contact the homeowner who was not at home when the fire started. Two dogs were located in the back yard uninjured. There were no injuries to any firefighters and the fire is still under investigation with crews remaining on scene to aid investigators as needed.

10-Aug: Fire in Duplex on Mission - One unit damaged second basement unit being evaluated.

At approximately 2:28 pm SVFD responded to a reported house fire at 13822 E. Mission Ave. Fire reported started from back deck and extended into attic after burning up the outside wall and through the soffit.

SVFD arrived within minutes and reported an active fire located in the attic with crews confirming initially no smoke or fire in the living space. All three occupants of the two units and a dog had already safely evacuated prior to SVFD arrival. The fire grew rapidly once entering the common attic space and crews were quick to notice the change in fire activity. Ladder Companies ascended to the roof via ground ladders and open the roof creating ventilation holes while coordinating with interior engine crews attacking the fire directly with hoselines. The fire was contained to the attic space but water and smoke damage along with removing ceiling materials to check for extension of fire resulted in the east side unit being unoccupiable. The second west side basement unit is being evaluated to determine if it can be occupied. Red cross was contacted to aid the residents in finding temporary housing.

2024 July Burglary Hotspots

NEWS

State of the City highlights Spokane Valley challenges, accomplishments

By John McCallum

Current correspondent

While acknowledging there are challenges lying ahead, Spokane Valley City Council members and staff believe the city has come a long way since incorporation 20 years ago.

In remarks at the annual State of the City luncheon and address July 24 at CenterPlace, Spokane Valley Mayor Pam Haley said the city has grown while also maintaining itself as a place where businesses and families can grow and thrive in safety.

“It’s already a good place to live, work and play and we plan to keep it that way,” Haley said. “We’re a city of opportunity where people thrive and businesses prosper.”

Interspersing live comments with a slickly-produced video presentation featuring all seven City Council members along with other individuals, Haley and Deputy Mayor Tim Hattenburg provided several hundred attendees with a rundown of city accomplishments in 2023 and a look

ahead at the challenges in 2024 and beyond.

Many of those challenges are a result of Spokane Valley’s population growth — beginning with the size of its Police Department. While the city’s population has increased 30% since incorporation in 2003, the size of its police force hasn’t grown since 2008, while subsequently seeing a 65% increase in calls for service, with 53,191 being recorded in 2023 alone.

“Spokane Valley needs more police officers and we need to increase the capacity of our criminal justice system,” Hattenburg said.

In November 2023, results from an $84,900 city-commissioned study of the Police Department indicated at least 31 more officers were needed throughout various divisions — beginning with 10 additional patrol officers. In late February, council approved the hiring of 12 new officers, with the remaining 19 to be scheduled through a Police Department produced timeline as funding becomes available.

Part of the reason the city was able to make the hiring decision quickly was

because of another council-approved move in December 2023 — creation of a Transportation Benefit District. The new TBD instituted a $20 car tab fee, collection of which began July 1, 2024, that is estimated to provide $2.8 million towards street maintenance projects.

Because of the tab fee, council approved funding the 12 new officers by reallocating $2.125 million in General Fund revenues that normally would have been used for street maintenance. The funding mechanism comes with a number of caveats, specifically that it is highly reliant on car tab fees that are static and not adjusted for inflation, and which if discontinued would require another source of law enforcement funding to be found.

Council also approved use of $1 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to pay for $624,000 in one-time equipment needs for the new officers.

City and Police Department staff estimate full staffing of the 31 new positions will cost approximately $6.2 million annually.

Another challenge Hattenburg pointed to was the decreasing impact of property and sales taxes — the city’s primary funding sources — due to inflation. While actual collections for both have increased over the last 15 – 20 years, inflation has lessened their budget

impact.

In 2023, Spokane Valley collected almost $14 million in property taxes that when adjusted for inflation, resulted in a financial impact equal to $8 million. Sales tax collections in 2023 totaled almost $33 million, but only amounted to just under $20 million when adjusted for inflation.

“Simply put, revenues are not keeping up with inflation,” Hattenburg said.

Hattenburg also said this is one of the reasons why council created the TBD. It’s also why staff is one of the smallest for a city Spokane Valley’s size at 118 full-time employees, and why the city utilizes outside contracts for providing many of its services.

Spokane Valley did realize a number of successes in 2023, some of which came about through relationships. UPS Vice President of U.S. Government Affairs Bruce DD McRae told the audience in a video segment that one of the reasons the company chose Spokane Valley over the city of Spokane to make a $40 million – $50 million expansion was because of the interactions between it and City Manager John Hohman.

“It was like open arms,” McRae said. “I mean that. I mean we came in and were treated like family.”

De Leon Foods owner Sergio De Leon and Kaiser Aluminum plant

Photo by John McCallum

Spokane Valley Mayor Pam Haley watches a big-screen image of herself during the video presentation portion of the State of the City address on July 24 at Center Place.

manager Kevin Barron also praised Spokane Valley’s partnership approach as reason why they do business in the city.

The city listed several transportation projects it successfully completed in 2023, including the 10-year-long, $36 million railroad grade separation project on Barker Road. Spokane Valley will be breaking ground this fall on another major grade separation project at Pines Road, estimated to $48 million.

Both projects not only improve traffic flow but provide safety for motorists and pedestrians, and were possible through partnerships bringing in a significant amount of federal and state funding. The city is also beginning work on its $7 million cross country course on the north bank of the Spokane River east of Flora Road, designating $4.4 million of tourism revenue for construction this year on a project it hopes will bring in

more tourist dollars through regional high school, college and above meets.

The city also took strides in 2023 to implement approaches dealing with homelessness. Among these were taking over receipt of an estimated $640,000 in Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) monies collected by Spokane County on behalf of the city that will be used to fund the homeless and housing program while Spokane Valley continues work creating its own plan.

Council also awarded $4 million in ARPA funds five nonprofit organizations dealing with homelessness and affordable housing: Family Promise of Spokane, Volunteers of America Eastern Washington, Reclaim Project Recovery, Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners and Habitat for Humanity.

“The city has come a long way since our incorporation in 2003,” Haley said.

Fair Season

By Nina Culver Current contributor

September is the month for fairs and festivals, with the top Spokane Valley events all scheduled in the same month. The Spokane County Interstate Fair comes first, Sept. 6-15, and later in the month the Southeast Spokane County Fair and Valleyfest will both be held the weekend of Sept. 20-22, creating several opportunities to eat fair food, listen to live music and take advantage of family activity options.

The theme of this year’s

Spokane County Fair is “The World is a Fair,” a nod to this year’s 50th anniversary of Expo ’74. The World Fair is also recognized with the addition of a World Market to this year’s fair. The market, located near the Main Gate. In addition, most areas of the fair have chosen a country to highlight, such as Ireland and Japan.

“It was a very international feel and that’s what we’re trying to embody at the World Market,” said Fair Coordinator Jessie McLaughlin.

The Market will be open each day of the fair, but there will be more vendors participating on the weekends.

People can expect a fair experience that is both familiar and new. In addition to the usual exhibits, livestock, and carnival rides, the PRCA Rodeo will be back Sept. 6 and 7, the truck and tractor pull on Sept. 13 and the demolition derby on Sept. 14 and 15. The live entertainment this year includes performances by Clay Walker and special guest Eddie Montgomery on Sept. 10, Ian Munsick on Sept. 11 and Flo Rida on Sept. 12.

This year’s mascot is a Nigerian dwarf goat named Bo, who will take up residence in a new Farm Animal Experience. Bo was chosen in honor of the garbage eating goat in Riverfront Park, which was

created for Expo ’74.

In addition to seeing the animals in the Farm Animal Experience, there will be educational sessions that cover things like how eggs are produced. “You can interact with the animals,” said Spokane County Fair and Expo Center Director Erin Gurtel. “We know the number one reason a lot of people come to the fair is to see the animals.”

While people may be accustomed to seeing racing pig events, this year there will be racing barnyard animals. That will give people the experience of watching other animals, including ducks, race in addition to the pigs.

Contributed photo

The mutton bustin’ will be back for the kids and the lumberjack show has been revived on Sundays during the fair. Most of the same food vendors will be back, though some may have moved. New this year is Cathy’s Cookies, where people can buy cookies by the sleeve or by the bucket.

“You can really stay a while and everywhere you turn there’s something,” Gurtel said.

While organizers are hoping for good weather, McLaughlin said there will be plenty to do no matter what the weather is like. “Even if it does drizzle for some reason, we have so much square footage of indoor space you can enjoy the fair and not get wet,” she said.

Organizers have also been trying to emphasize the advance tickets available for reduced prices before the fair opens. While discounted tickets have been available for years, Gurtel said, not many people seem to know about them. “We did buy a lot of billboards around town to really put that out there,” she said.

Admission at the gate will be $15 for adults on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and $13 for adults on the remaining weekdays. But if the tickets are purchased before Sept. 5, the price is $10 for adults and $7 for military, seniors and kids ages 7-13. Children 6 and under are free. The advance tickets can be purchased at the fair office located at 404 N. Havana St.

Parking is $10 per car at the fairgrounds or people can ride a Spokane Transit Authority shuttle bus from Spokane Community College for $2.

For a full schedule of events and information on how to buy tickets to the evening concerts and events, visit www.spokanecounty. org/4606/Interstate-Fair.

The Southeast Spokane County Fair and Valleyfest have been on the same weekend each September for decades, but it is possible to attend both events with proper planning. Admission to most events at both are free.

Judging events start on Sept. 17 at the Southeast Spokane County Fair in Rockford, but the public events kick off at noon on Friday, Sept. 20. The fair was beefed up with several new events last

COVER STORY

year in honor of the fair’s 80th anniversary and several of those events are returning, said fair president Connie Reinhardt. That includes the truck pulls, which is set for 5:30 on Sept. 20. “That was a big hit,” Reinhardt said.

The lawn mower races will be back at noon on Sunday, Sept. 22 and the Stan Seehorn Memorial Go-Kart race is set to start at 2:30 p.m. the same day. The event was supposed to have its inaugural race last year, but it was cancelled when organizers couldn’t secure enough go-karts, Reinhardt said. “They are on this year,” she said.

Fair organizers were looking for something a little different in terms of entertainment this year and hired local resident Brady Byers, known for his sword swallowing act on the America’s Got Talent television show. “We wanted something different than last year,” she said.

Byers describes himself as a “world-renowned sword swallower, sideshow artist, juggler and Grandmaster yoyo tricks expert.” He will perform at 1 p.m. Sept. 20 and at 4 p.m. Sept. 21.

One of the highlights of the fair is the parades on Saturday, Sept. 21. The children’s parade begins at 10 a.m., followed by the grand parade at 10:30 a.m. Other events planned throughout the weekend include a carnival, a cornhole tournament, a tractor show, a greased pig contest, a soapbox derby, bingo and live music.

“We’ve expanded our Sunday,” said Reinhardt. “It used to be pretty slow.”

A full schedule and more details are available at https:// sespokanecountyfair.com.

The 35th annual Valleyfest will kick off its traditional Hearts of Gold Parade down Sprague Avenue. Named after a variety of cantaloupe that was once widely grown in Spokane Valley, the parade will begin at Appleway Florist at 7:30 p.m. and end at Perrine Road.

But those lining up to watch the parade can see a little entertainment first beginning at 6:15 p.m. on Sprague between Gillis Road and Moffit Road. “The

full list of entertainment and exhibitions by going to www.spokanecounty.org/4606/Interstate-Fair.

The SE Spokane County Fair features a signature parade with community, tractors, emergency responders, specialty vehicles and more. You can see the parade this year down main street Saturday, Sept 21, 10:00 am.

Contributed photo

Mango and Dango, a must-see theatrical circus pair, were featured at the 2023 Spokane Interstate Fair. You can se a

Contributed Photo

Student of the Month

As a senior defensive end for the West Valley football squad, Riley Gilbreth embraces his role as co-captain and says he “is trying to fulfill what leaders before us did.” Gilbreth was an All Greater Spokane League selection as a junior, registering 13 sacks. Against Clarkston, Gilbreth logged a critical sack that diverted a potential scoring drive. He and his WV teammates have high hopes for this year, setting a goal to bring home the 2A state title. “We’ve grown closer as a team,” he said. “You play a lot better when you know the guy next to you.” Gilbreth is aware of and grateful for the proud tradition at West Valley. “The community’s always been so supportive,” he said. Gilbreth maintains a 3.75 grade point average. He plans to enlist in the Navy and pursue studies in nursing.

Athlete of the Month

As the 2024 soccer season dawns, Ashlyn Chase returns as one of the state’s top soccer players. The senior at West Valley has been a pillar on varsity since her freshman year. She was part of an Eagles’ squad that reached the 2A Elite Eight her sophomore year. Last season, Chase and her teammates cruised through the Greater Spokane League with an undefeated record. WV reached the 2A championship match before falling to Ridgefield on penalty kicks. Chase registered 15 goals last year and 23 as a sophomore. She served as captain last year and will resume that role this season. “The goal this year is to win state,” Chase said. “We all want to win it for each other.” Chase maintains a 3.9 grade point average. She will continue her academic and soccer pursuits at the University of Idaho.

Citizen of the Month

For nearly two decades, Carol Carter was a pillar at the city of Spokane Valley. The Lewiston, Idaho native helped establish policies and procedures with the Parks and Recreation Department before transitioning to manager at CenterPlace where she worked for 15 years. Carter has been involved with Valleyfest for over 20 years, most recently as a member of the board of directors. She was also a volunteer with PTO groups in the Central Valley School District and St. George’s School. Carter now serves as executive director of Care to Stay Home, a Spokane Valley-based business focused on in-home elderly care. “I get to help families every day,” she said. Carter has a degree in Business Management from Lewis and Clark State. She and her husband Jerry have been married 31 years and have three grown kids and three grandchildren.

Members Michael F., Matt N., & Christa S.

FAIR SEASON

Continued from page 11

Lions Club Bed Races are rejoining us this year after a hiatus,” said Valleyfest director Peggy Doering. “That’s always great fun. We’re excited to have them back.”

Events will fill CenterPlace and Mirabeau Point Park on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 20 and 21. There will be live music and a variety of performances on multiple stages in both locations over both days. The ever-popular Fishing at the Falls will return from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 20 along with the

COVER STORY

Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk at 9 a.m. that day.

CultureFest, which celebrates cultures from around the world, will be returning to Mirabeau Point Park from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sept. 20 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 21. The petting zoo and toy maker will be back, along with a STEAM showcase featuring activities for kids from noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 20 at CenterPlace. The car show is returning Sunday beginning at 9 a.m. and this year several military vehicles will be on display in addition to the classic cars.

The biggest change is to the schedule on Sunday, Doering said.

It used to include several events that included biking, running or canoeing on the Spokane River and the Centennial Trail. However, a lack of volunteers means there is only one sporting event, the 5K/10K River Run that starts at 8 a.m. at the Plantes Ferry Sports Complex. The event is a Bloomsday qualifier race.

A full schedule of events and information on registering for the River Run or the bed races is available at https://valleyfest.org.

Putting a fair or festival on requires months of hard work and funding. Revenues typically come from admission tickets and vendor

booth rentals as well as sponsors. Out of town visitors, in turn, spend money at restaurants, hotels and local businesses.

Gurtel said vendor spaces at the Spokane County Fair are sold out this year and the number of fair visitors have been rising since the pandemic, a trend that she hopes will continue. Prior to 2020, peak attendance was around 200,000. It started slow after the pandemic, but had grown to 171,000 last year.

The fair is not supported by Spokane County taxpayers, Gurtel said. “Revenues are good overall,” Gurtel said. “We are selfsustaining. We’re an enterprise fund. What we make supports our business and puts the fair on each year.”

An economic study from 20 years ago estimated that the fair had an annual economic impact of $7 million per year. A new economic impact study is currently underway, Gurtel said. “We’re confident that has grown,” she said.

The Southeast Spokane County Fair, which does not charge admission, was struggling until recently, supported only by community donations, Reinhardt said. “They didn’t have the go-cart races, they didn’t have the lawn mower races, they didn’t have things that cost money,” she said. “It was kind of a dying fair.”

Last year, however, organizers started the annual Denim and Diamonds auction and dinner to raise money for the fair. It has allowed for new events that will hopefully draw more visitors, Reinhardt said. The fair typically attracts fewer than 10,000 people annually.

Valleyfest, which also doesn’t charge admission, is mostly supported by donations and business sponsorships but usually receives some money from the City of Spokane Valley in the form of a lodging tax grant. Vendor booth fees also help pay the expenses. “We have seen a significant increase in registrations this year for booths,” Doering said.

Last year’s estimated attendance at Valleyfest was about 28,000, higher than the year before, Doering said.

Contributed photo

The Spokane Valley Court for Valleyfest features Queen Sindhu Surapaneni, Princess Cameryn Goff, and Princess and Princess Abrielle Clark.

COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Sept 6 - 15 | Spokane County Interstate Fair –Join us for the 2024 Spokane Fair, Sept. 6-15 as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Expo 74!

Sept 16 | Spokane Valley Resource Fair – 10 am - 2 pm. Go to https:// sespokanecountyfair.com/to see the schedule of events. ocal businesses from around the community will be providing informational booths to help seniors get the resources they need. Taking place at CenterPlace, 2426 N Discovery Pl.

Sept 20 - 22 | Valleyfest– Come celebrate community with us. See https:// valleyfest.org/ for a full schedule of activites.

Sept 20 - 22 | SE County Fair – Go to https://sespokanecountyfair.com/to see the schedule of events.

Sept 27 | HUB Family Fun Festival –4 pm - 7 pm. AJoin us at HUB Sports Center for our 17th birthday with an evening full of fun activities and games! This is a terrific opportunity to bring the family to HUB Sports Center and sample a variety of events. Learn more about HUB Sports Center and what we do for the community.

From cornhole to pickleball to a batting cage and so much more there will plenty of activities for everyone!

All ages are welcome and this event is FREE to attend and participate. https://www.hubsportscenter.org/ events/hub-family-fun-festival/ RECURRING

ACT 2 Senior Classes | Affordable classes offered by Community Colleges of Spokane to those who are retired or planning to retire, though there is no age limit. A wide range of courses from geology and history to exercise and art are offered at CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place, as well as other locations throughout the area. For more, search for “Act 2” at scc.spokane.edu.

Spokane Bicycle Club | 6 to 8 p.m., weekly on Thursday evenings, Spokane Valley Library, 22 N Herald Rd, Spokane

Valley. Meeting places, routes, and ride leaders change from week to week, a tailgate party typically follows each ride. All are welcome. For more, call Dave at 509.868.5984.

Baha’i Fireside Conversation | 7 to 8 p.m., third Thursday of the month, Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. All are welcome. For more, call Dave Sorg at 509.868-5984.

Café Card Club | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Tuesdays, On Sacred Grounds, 12212 E. Palouse Hwy., Valleyford. Play pinochle, cribbage, or hearts. For more, call 9517039 or email onsacredgrounsrising@ gmail.com.

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

Grange Meeting | 2:00 p.m., third Sunday of the month, Tri-Community Grange, 25025 Heather St., Newman Lake. The public is welcome for this community-based service organization. For more, call 509.385.4082.

Men’s Weekly Bible Study | 7 a.m. Tuesdays. Millwood Presbyterian Church, 3223 N. Marguerite Road, Millwood. The men’s weekly Bible Study meets in the Reception Hall with different members sharing in the leading of the study. All men are invited to join. More at www.millwoodpc.org.

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

Rockford Historical Society | 11:30 a.m. second Friday of the month (February to November), The Harvest Moon, 20 S. First St., Rockford. For more, call 2913193.

Spokane County Library District | Locations include Argonne, Fairfield, Otis Orchards, and Spokane Valley. Special events and weekly activities for all ages including book clubs, children’s story times, classes, Lego club, teen anime club and writing clubs. More at scld.org.

Spokane Valley Eagles | 16801 E. Sprague Ave. Lunch served Thursdays 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by bingo from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Dinner served Fridays 5:30 p.m. More at www.foe3433. com.

Spokane Valley Partners Food Bank | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday- Friday 10814 E. Broadway Ave. No appointment necessary. For questions and info, call 509-927-1153

Spokane Valley Quilt Guild | Meetings at 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of February, April, June, August, October and December at Valley Assembly of God Church, 15618 E. Broadway Ave., Spokane Valley. Open to all interested in sharing ideas and skills of our quilting craft. Participants can access a comprehensive library, engage experienced teachers and participate in community service projects. More at svqgspokane.com.

Spokane Valley Senior Citizens Association | 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekdays at CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place. Activities include bridge, billiards, book club, Red Hat Ladies, Mahjongg, ACT II classes, foot care, Medicare assistance, monthly excursions to Northern Quest Casino, Meals on Wheels location and more. Annual dues are $25/single or $45/ couple. For more, call 509-926-1937 or visit spokanevalleyseniorcenter.org.

MUSIC & THE ARTS

RECURRING

Spirit of Spokane Chorus | 6:00 p.m. Tuesdays, Opportunity Presbyterian Church, 202 N. Pines Road. Make new friends by joining this women’s chorus, specializing in four-part, a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. More at 509-866-6354.

HEALTH & RECREATION

Various Days |Spokane Indians – Go to https://www.milb.com/spokaneto

get the game scedule for this season.

Sept 5, 9 | Concealed Carry Class – 1 pm - 5 pm. Hosted at the Sportsmans Warehouse. This 4-hour comprehensive training course is designed to educate individuals on the laws and regulations surrounding the carrying of concealed firearms. This class covers essential topics such as the use of force, firearms safety, and the proper handling and storage of firearms, as well as the specific laws and any requirements for obtaining permits in Washington, Oregon, and Arizona. Upon completion of the class, attendees will be eligible to apply for the above-mentioned permits. You will also receive a WA - HB-1143 Gun Safety Certificate. Sign up at legalheat.com. Located at Sportsman’s Warehouse Spokane Valley 15118 E Indiana, Spokane Valley, WA 9916

Sept 14 | Courageous Kid Climbing – 1 pm - 3 pm. Free rock wall climbing opportunity for people of all ages with special needs – physical or developmental. Reservations are required. Spokane Valley YMCA, 2421 N Discovery Pl., Spokane Valley, WA 99216

We can accommodate anyone who weighs under 300-pounds, the weight limit of some of our equipment. Participants will not be forced to climb, but are welcome to just come and hang out with us in an all-inclusive environment.

RECURRING

Al-Anon Family Meetings | Tuesdays, noon to 1 p.m., Opportunity Christian Church, 708 N. Pines, Spokane Valley. Is there a problem of alcoholism with a relative or a friend? Al-Anon/Alateen family groups can help. For more, call 509-456-2125.

Decreasing Anger Group |The Vet Center, 13109 E. Mirabeau Parkway, Spokane Valley. Eligibility: combat veteran from all eras, military sexual trauma survivors. For more, call at 509-444-8387 to make an intake appointment.

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

COMMUNITY

Fly Tying Group | 9 to 11 a.m., Spokane Vet Center, 13109 E. Mirabeau Parkway, Spokane Valley. Veterans, Active Buty, Reserves, and Guard are welcome! For more, call 509-444-8387.

GriefShare Support Group | The ONE Church, east entrance, 15601 E. 24th Ave., Spokane Valley. Join at any time. Designed to help cope with loss, whether recent or years ago. For more, 509-926-3254

Touched by Cancer | Spokane Valley Unitd Methodist, 115 M Raymond Rd. Spokane Valley, Wa 99206. Women who have or have had cancer, or who have helped someone with cancer, are invited. We meet the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 10:00am. Please call the church with any questions or concerns.

HUB Sports Center | 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Various activities and events occur throughout the week including:

• Pickleball drop-in: 1 to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday. $5.50/person online $7/at the door.

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

Drumming for Wellness and JOY! | Class offered at Willow Song Music Therapy Center, 21101 E. Wellesley #102, Otis Orchards on Fridays at 10:45am-11:45am, for adults desiring a social experience that is designed to support well-being--- emotional, physical and cognitive, in a fun and social setting based in rhythm. $10 or $5 pp if you bring a friend. All instruments provided, and adaptable for all abilities. For more, visit willowsongmusictherapy.com or call/ text 509 592 7875.

CIVIC & BUSINESS

the annual Policy Summit in Spokane in partnership with Greater Spokane Inc.

NonStop Local KHQ-TV will serve as broadcast partner for the 6 p.m. gubernatorial debate airing on TV and streaming at nonstoplocal. com. Moderators will include KHQ news anchors Sean Owsley and Kalae Chock, and Austin Jenkins, staff writer for Pluribus News and host of TVW’s “Inside Olympia.”

In addition to the gubernatorial debate, the AWB Policy Summit will include debates for other statewide races including attorney general, commissioner of public lands and superintendent of public instruction.

RECURRING

Central Valley School Board | 6:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, EVSD administration building, 2218 N. Molter Rd, Liberty Lake.

East Valley School Board | 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, CVSD administration building, 3830 N Sullivan Rd.

West Valley School Board | 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, WVSD administration building, 3219 N Argonne Rd

Spokane Valley City Council | Regular meetings held Tuesdays of each month at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers at Spokane Valley City Hall, 10210 E Sprague Ave.

Millwood City Council | Regular meetings at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at Millwood City Hall, 9103 E. Frederick Ave.

Sept 15 | Splading Auto Parts 90th Anniversary 2 pm - 6 pm. Spalding Auto Parts has been serving the Inland Empire for over 90 years. We are on our third generation of family ownership. We will be celebrating by hosting a car show t our location in Spokane Valley. At the car show we will be raffling of items/accepting donations for The Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery.

Sept 18 |AWB and GSI Gubernatorial Debate 6 pm. Debates will feature top two candidates for governor, attorney general, lands commissioner and superintendent of public instruction at

| Sponsored by the Sons of the American Revolution and the Fairmount Memorial Association, details the rich history of the American flag, Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pines Cemetery, 1402 S. Pines Road, Spokane Valley. For more, call Stan 509-8424740 or visit fairmountmemorial.com/ south-pines-cemetery.

Spokane Valley Kiwanis | 12 p.m. Tuesdays. Darcy’s Restaurant, 320 N Sullivan Rd. More at spokanevalleykiwanis.net.

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

Brought

After School Activities on

Thursdays

For kids grade K–5

Drop by the library to try something new, focusing on science, technology, engineering, art, or math (STEAM).

We’re stacking up super activities, so plan on having a fantastic time!

SPOKANE VALLEY LIBRARY

22 N Herald Rd Thursdays, 3:30–4:30pm

SPOKANE COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT

The Crest

About and for Spokane Valley area seniors

Lilac City Harvest takes root in Spokane Valley

By Nina Culver

Current contributor

The tomatoes and Hearts of Gold cantaloup are going strong at Lilac City Harvest in Spokane Valley, but the squash bugs were out in force this year and only a few squash plants survived.

Adam and Emily Powell have run the small farm for several years, growing, picking and packing thousands of pounds of produce each growing season to sell in their store or sell to other stores for resale.

The garden has its roots in Adam’s childhood in Texas, where he grew up next to his grandparents and frequently helped in their large garden. In later years, his parents would move to Washington State for the cooler, drier climate. They raved about it to Adam, who came for a visit and stayed, tired of the heat and humidity of his birth state.

“I saw the mountains, the seasons, the happy people,” he said of decision to stay.

Friends introduced him to Emily, a sixth-generation resident of Spokane Valley. The couple married 13 years ago and decided to purchase a 7-acre former farm at 32nd Avenue and Evergreen Road in 2016. They’ve turned it into a family compound, moving Adam’s parents into a second home on the property. They considered what to do with the land and Adam, unhappy with his warehouse job working for a refrigeration company, thought of growing produce to sell. He planted his first crop in 2018.

The goal was to start out small, Emily said. Adam watched YouTube videos and read books to learn gardening techniques. He had no experience in growing crops like lettuce and spinach, which don’t grow well in Texas. “He would farm in the morning, work a full-time job, then

farm in the evenings,” Emily said.

Emily was home taking care of their two children and when their youngest was two, she began to work on the farm as well. She had never grown anything before, so Adam patiently taught her what he knew. “I have that green thumb background to draw on,” he said. “The first couple seasons were a learning curve for her.”

Having both of them working on the small farm allowed them to expand and Adam quit his full-time job in 2021. Though they own seven acres, the vegetables are grown on only half an acre. There’s constant planting and harvesting, even now. Adam just planted several rows of spinach that were started as seeds a month ago and are only a fingertip high, but they’ll be bushy and ready for harvest in three weeks.

“People think we’re just gardeners,” Adam said. “It’s not the same. It’s an extremely intensively managed space.”

“We like stuff that we can turn over

pretty quickly and reuse that space,” Emily said.

The couple grows several varieties of lettuce and with careful, frequent watering and a shade cloth, they have managed to grow lettuce continuously all summer. They sell the lettuce as a salad mix in five ounce bags and Adam estimates that they’ve sold 1,500 bags of salad mix this year.

They grow other “salad crops” such as green onions, cucumbers, tomatoes, cabbage, beans, beets and radishes. They harvested 1,000 pounds of onions and are sold out of the 600 pounds of potatoes they harvested this year. Garlic, carrots, herbs and broccoli are also in the ground.

The couple experimented with cantaloupe for the first time last year and the results were excellent, Emily said. The secret is Spokane Valley’s rocky soil, she said. The rocks retain the heat of the day and provide the extra warmth the plant likes. She learned that the Valley used to be widely known for

growing the Hearts of Gold variety and hunted down some seeds to plant this year. The cantaloupe are proliferating under the low, leafy plants sprawled across a section of their farm.

“It just made sense,” she said of growing the Hearts of Gold variety. “How could you not?”

The rocks in the soil are also another crop that Emily harvests. She said she’s always pocketing beautiful and unique rocks that she unearths as she works and began putting them in a basket in their store for children to take home free of charge. “They’re all just different and beautiful,” she said. “I have rocks in my purse right now. I just can’t help it.”

Their store at 13902 E. 32nd Avenue is open Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and from 9 a.m. to noon on Fridays and Saturdays. Their produce can also be found at LINC Foods, Garland Mercantile and the Main Market CoOp.

Though their farm has not gone through the process to be certified as organic, Emily said they use organic farming practices. “Everything is organic and is as sustainable as we can make it,” she said.

The couple wants to expand but would need to hire employees to do so. While the farm is profitable, it isn’t profitable enough to support employees, Emily said. So they are exploring other options to extend their growing season as a way to make more money and hire help. U-pick crops are also an option they’re considering, she said.

They have one greenhouse on site that they use to start seedlings in the spring when it’s still too cold to plant outside. They have the frame of a second greenhouse that just needs plastic installed. “Basically what those structures do is give us a month on either side of the season,” Adam said. They’ve also gotten a Natural Resources Conservation Service grant to install a “high tunnel” system, also known as a hoop house. They hope to build it in the spring. It will allow them to plant year-round without using a heat source, Adam said. That would allow them to make a profit in the winter months. “LINC buys produce year-round from those who have it,” he said.

Photo by Nina Culver

Hidden in the leafy green foliage, Hearts of Gold Cantaloup once a proud staple of the Spokane Valley farming heritage is coming alive at Lilac City Harvest.

By Craig Howard

Current Contributing Editor

said.

For most people, July is a month for sports like baseball, golf and swimming.

For Jamie Nilles and his fellow volunteer coaches at Hooptown Elite, the mid-summer month means basketball on the road.

The AAU program has taken off in the last decade and now features eight boys’ teams in high school age brackets starting with incoming freshmen up to returning seniors. The Hooptown Elite alumni list is impressive, including current NCAA Division 1 players like Blake Buchanan (Lake City/University of Virginia) and Dylan Darling (Central Valley/Washington State/Idaho State) as well as former college standouts like David Pendergraft (Brewster/Gonzaga), Tanner Christensen (U-Hi/University of Idaho/Utah Tech) and Anton Watson (Gonzaga Prep/Gonzaga).

Nilles, longtime West Valley boys’ basketball coach who now serves as WV athletic director, has been part of the local AAU network for the past 26 years. Nilles said Hooptown Elite makes it a point “to work with high school coaches” and not step on toes. Tryouts take place in early November with the first games taking place in the spring. Nilles said the program is flexible with players participating in high school spring sports as well as social events like senior prom.

“We still believe in the multi-sport athlete,” Nilles said. “If they’re in track or baseball, we want them to play that sport.”

There are two teams in each age group with eight players per team. Nilles said the rosters are kept small with an emphasis on playing time. Cost to participate ranges from $1,600 to $2,300 per player, depending on the team. Hooptown USA, the umbrella group that puts on Hoopfest and governs local AAU teams has Hooptown Elite on the list for financial support and payment options are provided for families. Scholarship funds are also available. None of the Hooptown Elite coaches are on salary.

“I’ve always believed it’s part of our duty to give back to the game,” Nilles

Hooptown Elite showcases local basketball talent across country

The AAU format has changed in recent years with the involvement of shoe companies like Nike, Adidas and Under Armor. While Spokane teams once traveled to large tournaments in cities like Las Vegas and L.A., the program is now under the Under Armor banner and participates in events hosted by the company. This spring, Hooptown Elite took part in tournaments in Cincinnati, Salt Lake City and Auburn, WA., while the July agenda included stops in Atlanta, Chicago and Seattle.

“We’re the only team in Eastern Washington to be playing on a shoe

circuit,” Nilles said.

www.hubsportscenter.org

Like the early days of Gonzaga men’s basketball that featured the underdog team from provincial Spokane clashing with big-name programs, Hooptown Elite often surprises teams stacked with Division 1 commits. Such was the case three years ago in Chicago when a squad led by Buchanan won the tournament championship.

“We’re not going to win the warmups,” said Nilles. “I do think teams will underestimate us but the game of basketball can be won in different ways. If you play the right way, you can stay in the game and win.”

Nilles said he and other longtime coaches like Jim Psomas emphasis a team-oriented approach characterized by help defense, sharing the ball and making

Contributed photo Prep standouts from schools like West Valley, Freeman, Central Valley, Ridgeline and University were part of the Hooptown Elite

program this summer. Tryouts for the program happen each November with the first phase of the tournament schedule kicking off in the spring.

the extra pass. Egos and one-on-one play that may have been a hallmark of players on other levels are set aside for the good of the team.

“It’s a work in progress,” Nilles said.

The AAU culture also means players accustomed to battling each other in local high school rivalries suddenly find themselves as teammates.

“You may have a Ferris kid and an LC kid who despise each other but they get on the same team and become lifelong friends,” Nilles said.

While AAU tournaments still draw a bevy of college coaches, Nilles said the introduction of the NCAA transfer portal in 2018 has altered the terrain of college recruiting as schools can draw from a flood of student-athletes who become eligible to switch schools without sitting out a year once they declare for the portal.

“We never say, “Come play for us and you’re going to get a scholarship,’” Nilles said.

Some players arrive at Hooptown Elite with little fanfare but abundant potential. Steele Venters was an unheralded prospect at Ellensburg High School who walked on at Eastern Washington and became Big Sky MVP. He is now on the roster at Gonzaga. Jake Groves put up solid numbers at Shadle Park High School before he latched on at EWU, eventually transferring to the University of Oklahoma and later Virginia where he was an All-ACC Academic selection.

In addition to the basketball side of AAU, Nilles said traveling across the country, experiencing new cities and accepting accountability in areas like meeting curfew all prepare players for life beyond high school.

“Just to go to a half-a-dozen places in a year, those are life experiences,” he said.

The following players from the Greater Spokane Valley were part of Hooptown Elite over the past season: (17U) Tanner Goldsmith (Freeman), Garret Christensen (U-Hi), Will Busse (West Valley); (16U) Finn LaPointe (Freeman); (15U) Elijay Rigsby (U-Hi), Nathan Zettle (West Valley), Sam Delegard (UHi); (14U) Jayden Hebden (Ridgeline), Carter Brown (Ridgeline), Micah Olson (Freeman), Bo Fried (Ridgeline), Blake Tesky (Ridgeline), Winston Schroder (West Valley), Micah Hale (Ridgeline), Dylan Mortimer (Ridgeline).

AAU

The benefits, importance of “Play & Learn Storytime” for young children

By Gwendolyn Haley, librarian Spokane County Library District

Storytime at the library is a fun experience with books and also so much more. It’s a time for parents and caregivers to start their young children on the path to a lifelong love of reading and learning.

First up, talking! At storytime, kids listen to lively storytelling and take part in the conversation. This helps them pick up new words and understand how language works. When the storytime leader asks questions about the story and kids share their ideas and comments, it boosts their early language skills without them even realizing it.

Then there’s singing. Songs make storytime even more enjoyable and are fantastic for language development. Singing slows down the words, helping kids hear different sounds and syllables. Catchy tunes introduce them to new words and ideas in a way that

Borrow small appliances, tools, sports equipment, gear for entertainment

By Erin Dodge Current Guest Correspondent

The Library of Things (www. scld.org/things) is a collection of items that can be reserved and checked out at no cost from Spokane County Library District (SCLD).

To bolster this collection, the Library Foundation of Spokane County (www.supportscld.org) held a fundraising campaign in 2023 that resulted in generous donations from the community and a dozen new things that are ready to be borrowed.

Kitchen appliances can be costly, but you can borrow a few to try. Discover new ways to prepare meals with a sous vide immersion circulator, which heats and circulates water to cook food to

LIBRARY

sticks. So, when kids sing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” they’re not just having fun—they’re learning!

Of course, the star of the program is reading together. When we read out loud, kids are drawn into the story and illustrations. This shared reading experience builds vocabulary and comprehension skills while making reading fun. When children enjoy stories, they grow a love of reading.

Writing might seem a bit advanced, but for preschoolers in particular it’s all part of the package. Our storytime activities include printed letters and words, helping early learners begin to understand that those squiggles on the page represent spoken words. Whether scribbling on a craft project or tracing their names, kids are forming the connection between spoken and written language.

And let’s not forget about playing! Our storytimes are called “Play & Learn” for good reason. Play is an essential way for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers to learn. Our weekly “Play & Learn Storytime” programs always include playtime after reading stories and singing songs. We bring out toys and activities that build on important

a precise temperature, and a food dehydrator, to create tasty, healthy snacks.

If a lack of tools is preventing you from completing some projects, check out a cordless power drill and drill bits. Those unassembled shelves will be built in no time. Or try your hand at creating some bright and cheerful music with a ukulele. It comes with a quick start guide and a tuner.

Sports enthusiasts can check out a pickleball set that includes four paddles, balls, a net, rules and assembly instructions, and a bag to carry it all. When the season brings snow and you are looking for outdoor adventure, it’s time to borrow some snowshoes and adjustable poles.

Two new devices have been added to the Project Memory collection, both for home use: a fast photo scanner and a film converter that can turn 8mm film into MP4 digital video. Or create new memories with a GoPro camera that comes with grips, mounts, and a tripod to help capture your

skills, such as counting, identifying colors, creative playing, and sharing. This helps kids put their thoughts into words and talk about what they’re doing, reinforcing language skills in a natural, enjoyable way.

Library storytime is an awesome blend of talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing that bolsters young children’s development of critical early literacy skills. So, the next time you take your little one to storytime, know that they’re not just having a blast—they’re learning and growing in so many wonderful ways. Try it and see!

At Spokane Valley Library (22 N Herald St) at 9:30am, “Baby Play & Learn Storytime” for kids ages 0 to 18 months is on Wednesdays, “Toddler Play & Learn Storytime” for kids ages 18 to 36 months is on Thursdays, and “Preschool Play & Learn Storytime” for kids ages 3 to 5 years is on Fridays. Our “Family Play & Learn Storytime” for kids ages 2 to 5 and their families is at 10:30am at Argonne Library (4322 N Argonne Rd) on Wednesdays and at Otis Orchards Library (22324 E Wellesley Ave) on Thursdays and at Spokane Valley Library at 9:30am on Tuesdays.

adventures.

Your yard can turn into an outdoor movie premiere with the inflatable movie screen. Pair it with a projector (also available to borrow), and all you need is some popcorn, a cold drink, and a few lawn chairs for a viewing party.

For last year’s annular solar eclipse event, the Library Foundation funded the purchase of Sunoculars, binoculars that safely view eclipses and more, and Sunspotter Refracting Telescopes that use lenses and mirrors to safely project a magnified image of the sun. Both are now available for check out.

The Library Foundation of Spokane County seeks and stewards charitable donations to enrich literacy and early education programs, support access to technology, and promote lifelong learning for all ages at SCLD. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so your donation is eligible for tax deduction. Discover that ways you can support the library at www.supportscld.org/ ways-to-give.

CHECK OUT A New Adventure

Borrow a Discover Pass Backpack from the library—with a 28-day checkout! scld.org/check-out-wa

Manufacturing Connect launches at Spokane Valley Tech

By Nina Culver

Current contributor

The Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with the Central Valley School District to create opportunities for students to build future careers in the manufacturing industry.

A new program, called Manufacturing Connect, will bring engineering and advanced manufacturing students at Spokane Valley Tech to visit three manufacturers a month to get tours and learn about the products each company makes. The school was selected because it already has a program for students interested in technical fields, Beck said.

“It’s a career path not every

student is interested in,” he said.

While the monthly field trips will start in September, the preparation and planning started last year.

“We’ve been working on this for a little over a year now,” said Chamber CEO Lance Beck. “It builds on a partnership we’ve built with the manufacturers here. It’s kind of a natural step.”

Manufacturing jobs typically pay well, but until recently the mantra that high school students heard was that they needed a college degree in order to get a good job. The tide has begun to turn in the last few years, however, and students are being exposed to alternate career paths that call for an apprenticeship or training program instead of college.

Spokane Valley Tech teacher Salvatore Lorenzen said it used to be that there weren’t many jobs available in the manufacturing industry. “A lot of manufacturing went offshore,” he said. “My generation, we were told to get a degree. Now, with the uptick in manufacturing, there’s new opportunities.”

He wants to introduce his students to new career opportunities and let them know that there are plenty of

well-paying jobs available in their backyard. “If they don’t see it, they don’t know they can be it,” he said. “There’s a lot of local companies with a global presence. They don’t have to leave the area to work on interesting things.”

His job, in addition to exposing students to career options, is to prepare them to work in the industry. “My goal is to have my kids be entry level employable during the school year,” he said. “The kids can do some amazing things.”

Beck said that many manufacturers are located on large, nondescript buildings that don’t offer any clues about the work done inside. Many students pass by these businesses daily but don’t realize the companies are involved in manufacturing key components for a wide variety of products and businesses.

“They don’t know what’s here,” he said. “There’s some really good products that are made here. Unless you go inside and see what’s being done there, you don’t know what’s happening.”

The Chamber received a Career Connect Washington Grant to pay

for staff time to create and organize the program, Beck said. Staffers have been reaching out to manufacturers to gauge their willingness to host groups of teenagers for tours, Beck said. “We were able to pay for significant staff time to plan the program,” he said. “We had to learn who to ask, how to ask. We’ve got our first quarter of tours slated.”

Students will visit three manufacturers on each monthly field trip, which means that a student who participates in Manufacturing Connect will visit 50 companies over two years, Beck said. “They don’t know there’s that much volume of opportunity,” he said. “We do have well over 50. We really want to highlight the diversity.”

The grant does not, however, cover the cost of transporting students on the monthly field trips to visit local manufacturers. Beck said the Chamber is working on fundraising opportunities to pay for the operating costs.

Companies will likely be willing to participate in the Manufacturing Connect program because the manufacturing industry has been hurting for workers. Some businesses have gone as far as renting billboards to advertise vacant positions and many companies offer in-house training. Companies are automating where they can, but they still need skilled workers, Beck said.

“The workforce challenge for manufacturers hasn’t changed,” he said. “We’re not going to completely automate our way out of the workforce issue.”

The Chamber organized a pilot program, sending a group of 25 high school juniors and seniors to visit three manufacturers in May. The students visited ASC Machine Tools Inc., HDT Global and Spokane Seed Co. The businesses were selected because they are all market leaders in their respective industries, Beck said. All three are also located in Spokane Valley.

Beck said that while he hopes the program will be effective, it will probably take up to three years to be certain. The result he hopes to see is students in the Manufacturing Connect program being hired by local companies. “This will have an impact on quite a few students in a direct way,” he said.

If the program is effective, Beck said he hopes to be able to expand it to include students in other school districts in the future.

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Trentwood Roof Remodel almost disaster

By Nina Culver

Current contributor

A sudden rainstorm while a roofing project was underway at Trentwood Elementary in Spokane Valley this summer sent repair crews scrambling, but district leaders expected to have everything up and running on the first day of school.

The district started replacing the school’s roof in June, right after school ended. The $2.5 million project, which included the replacement of some rooftop HVAC units, was paid for by funds raised in a capital levy approved by voters in 2022, said Superintendent Brian Talbott. It is one of several roofing and HVAC projects planned in the district with the levy funds.

Records are unclear, but it appears that a second roof was placed over the building’s original roof in the late 1980’s, Talbot said. The aging roof had sprung several leaks and needed to be ripped out and replaced, he said. “We had some indoor water features,” he said. “When you get one on a tired roof, you’re going to get more.”

The district knew that there was asbestos in the old roof, which complicated matters. A company came out to do asbestos abatement, removing the old roof in a way that didn’t spread asbestos fibers into the school. Then a second crew would install the new roof. They worked in sections so the roofers could work while the abatement crew started on the next section.

On July 30, crews were working on a 5,000 square foot section over the school offices and several classrooms when a dark rain cloud was spotted in the distance. At that point the roof was gone and the wood decking was exposed. Workers tried putting down a tarp, but it wasn’t enough to hold back the deluge, Talbott said.

“That rain came down hard and fast in a short amount of time,” he said. “It just finds its way.”

The National Weather Service reports receiving a trace of rain that day at its facility on the West Plains, but some areas saw sudden brief rainstorms.

Water was still falling inside that section of the school when the contractor called SERVPRO, which does water removal. They responded the same day to start cleaning up the water, Talbott said. However, the district had to call in an industrial hygienist to do air tests to make sure no asbestos had been released into the air. No work could be done until the test results came back, which took several days.

The air tests came back clean, Talbot said, allowing workers to tear out damaged ceiling tiles, insulation and portions of walls. The week before school started, crews were still working to install insulation and put in new ceiling tiles. Teachers couldn’t get into the affected classrooms and the new

principal couldn’t get into his office, delaying their preparations for welcoming students back into the building.

“They were never supposed to be in the building,” Talbott said of the work crews. “Nothing inside was supposed to be touched.”

Neale Rasmussen, the district’s executive director of business and technology, said the contractor’s insurance will pay for the water damage repairs. “We’re not expecting the damages to cost the school district anything,” Rasmussen said.

Talbott said things have worked out as well as can be expected. “We were never angry at anyone,” he said. “Once it happened, it happened.”

Talbott said he’s grateful for crews from SERVPRO, Now Environmental Services and Air Tech Abatement Technologies

for their work in cleaning up the damage and putting the school back together. “There were a lot of hoops to go through,” he said. “They made the impossible possible. They’ve been in here double shifts, over the weekends.”

As crews sprinted to the finish line, Rasmussen said he expected everything except for perhaps some painting to be completed by the first day of school on Aug. 28. The project was originally planned to be complete in mid-August. “We think we’ll be ready,” he said.

Talbott said the damage and repairs meant that workers weren’t able to finish a final section of the old roof. In no mood to tempt fate by attempting to get it finished before school started, Talbott said that section will be replaced next summer. It’s a section that has not had problems with leaks, Talbott said.

During a scheduled roofing project, a unexpected rain storm caused some unexpected damage. After evaluations were completed it was determined that school would be able to open on time for the 2024-2025 School Year

Photos by Nina Culver and contributed photos