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2 • APRIL 2015

Turning the page

NEWS

The Current

A Cup of Joe

SCLD director optimistic about capital facilities vote

By Craig Howard

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

As Nancy Ledeboer prepares the Spokane County Library District for an August capital facilities ballot measure, there is solace knowing she can answer the tough questions.

In December 2011, the Montana native was announced as one of two finalists to replace longtime SCLD Director Mike Wirt, who was stepping down after guiding county library operations since 1979.

As part of the interview process, Ledeboer attended an open house at CenterPlace in Spokane Valley where she adeptly fielded questions from nearly 60 SCLD employees.

A few weeks later, Ledeboer was introduced as the new director. She took the reins at SCLD on March 1, 2012.

While Wirt left the district in solid condition, Ledeboer also realized she would need to look ahead. After the Spokane Valley City Council unanimously agreed last January to sell just under 3 acres of land at Sprague Avenue and Herald Road to SCLD, the district asked voters to approve a property tax increase to build a new Spokane Valley branch on the property, a new library at Conklin Road and an expansion of the Argonne branch in Millwood.

The $22 million initiative earned nearly 55 percent of the vote, enough for a win in most elections, but short of the 60 percent supermarjority needed on a capital facilities ballot.

Later this year, SCLD hopes to follow in the footsteps of local school districts and their recent success with construction

CURRENT PHOTO BY CRAIG HOWARD

Nancy Ledeboer has served as director of the Spokane County Library District since March 2012. She worked previously for libraries in King County, Nevada, Arizona and California. campaigns as it puts the initiative back on the ballot. If passed in August, the bond would cover the three previously proposed building projects and turn the current Spokane Valley branch on Pines Road into a technology learning center. The property tax referendum asks for an additional 11 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, or right around $22 a year on a $200,000 home.

As SCLD works to get the word out about the need for new and expanded library space, Ledeboer will draw on an impressive background with library districts in California, Arizona, Washington and Nevada. She was employed by the Spokane Library District from 1992 to 1998, rising to the rank of deputy director. Before returning to the Inland Northwest, she served as director of the Pima County Public Library, a 27-branch district, for seven years. She also served a term as president of the Arizona Library Association.

The Current caught up with Ledeboer

recently to discuss the challenges of managing a modern-day library district, the vote this August and the benefits of being back in the Inland Northwest.

Q.

What do you recall about your time with the Spokane Library District and your other career stops before you found your way back to this area in 2012?

A.

At that time, Spokane had just passed the bond issue to build all new libraries. It was so exciting to be in a place where people valued libraries and education. I worked at the city library until 1998. By then, my children were grown and out of the house, and I wanted to explore and experience new places. I started out by taking a job with King County Library System. From there, I accepted a position as the deputy director for the Las Vegas Clark County Library

District and was fortunate to serve there during a time of expansion and growth.

In 2005, I accepted my first position as a library director for what was then the Tucson Pima Public Library. During my first year we transitioned into the Pima County Public Library, with the county taking over the funding and administration of the library. I spent seven years in Tucson, where I served as president of the Literacy Connect Board when five literacy groups merged. I was also on the founding board of the Tucson Festival of Books, which is one of the premier book festivals in the country.

Q: What were some of the reasons you decided to apply when the SCLD director's job became available?

A: I loved my jobs in Las Vegas and Tucson. I could see how the library supported education and built a sense of community around lifelong learning. When the opportunity came along to do the work I love, in a place where it would also benefit my own children and grandchildren, I jumped at it. I spent most of my vacations here in Spokane, and it has always been the place in my heart that feels like home.

I was fortunate to have many experiences that I am able to bring back to Spokane and hopefully contribute to making the Spokane County Library District stronger.

Q: What have you enjoyed most about returning to live and work in the Inland Northwest?

A: Every place has its beauty, and the Northwest has an abundance. However, what really makes a place special is the people. It takes a while to connect and meet people. In my first year back, I attended

See SCLD, page 5

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4 • APRIL 2015

NEWS

The Current

In case you missed it EVSD names superintendent

Signs of a heart attack are rarely this obvious.

The East Valley School District Board of Directors voted at a March 5 meeting to hire Kelly Shea as superintendent of EVSD. According to a press release, he will assume the position July 1.

A Spokane native, Shea has served as superintendent of Sequim School District since 2012. He previously held positions in the Central Valley and Mead school districts.

For more, visit www.evsd.org.

Library bond set to be on August ballot

During a heart attack, every minute matters. So, know the warning signs.

If you experience them, call 911 and get to the nearest emergency room.

And know that Rockwood Health System is here to help when you need us.

The Spokane County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution in March regarding a proposition to finance new and expanded libraries in the greater Spokane Valley and Millwood. This action places a proposition on the Aug. 4 ballot that would more than double the public library space in the greater Valley area.

According to a press release, the proposition allows for the issue of general obligation bonds maturing over 20 years in the amount of $22,000,000; and levy annual excess property taxes to pay such bonds.

If approved, the cost of the bond is approximately 11 cents per $1,000 assessed value, meaning that the property owner of a $200,000 home will pay about $22 per year for 20 years.

The bond, if passed, would be used for the following: • A new Spokane Valley Library on Sprague Avenue adjacent to the property where the City of Spokane Valley is considering expansion of Balfour Park, creating a library/park combination.

The library construction is estimated at $14.5 million.

• A new library in Veradale/Greenacres on Conklin Road (one-half block south of Sprague), estimated at $5 million • An expansion of the Argonne Library, estimated at $1.5 million • A repurpose of the existing 60-yearold Spokane Valley Library, estimated at $1 million Ballots will be mailed July 17. For more, visit www.scld.org.

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All Spokane County golf courses opened for the season at the beginning of March, including Liberty Lake Golf Course, 24403 E. Sprague Ave., and MeadowWood Golf Course, 24501 E. Valleyway Ave. Tee times are now being scheduled. In addition, many clubs and leagues begin play in April.

For more, visit www.spokanecounty.org or call 255-6233 (Liberty Lake) or 2559539 (Meadowwood).

The Current

SCLD Continued from page 2

Leadership Spokane to learn about all the changes that have occurred since I lived here in the 1990s. I’ve joined the board of Spokane Valley Partners and am learning about the many non-profits that support quality of life in Spokane. I’m a member of the Spokane Chapter of Executive Women International and am learning about many of the businesses that contribute to our community. I’m currently serving on the EWU Scholarship Committee, and I’m really impressed with all the options for higher education available in Spokane today. I joined the Spokane STEM board, and I attend various chamber events. Everywhere I go, I meet caring people who want to make Spokane a community of excellence now and for the future. And, of course, there are the grandchildren. I love being involved in their lives and watching them grow up.

Q: Mike Wirt had been a fixture at SCLD, serving as director since 1979 before his retirement in early 2012. What was it like replacing someone with such a layered history in the district?

A: Mike left the District in a very strong position. Under Mike’s leadership, the district built a strong reputation of service and stewardship. When I was hired we were well positioned for the future. I’ve been honored to build upon that foundation to increase learning opportunities and develop new services that benefit the community.

Q: Your hiring was announced in December 2011 but you didn't actually take over as director until March 2012.

What was that time in between like?

A: Those two months flew by as I sold my house in Tucson, bought a house in Spokane Valley and transported my life north. I only had a few days off between jobs, barely enough to unpack essentials.

Mike stayed on through February, and he left the library in the hands of a strong leadership team during that short interim period.

Q: How would you describe your agenda and priorities for the district when you started or did you even have an agenda?

A: I’ve moved between jobs enough to know that you have to get to know each place before you initiate change. I spent my first six months visiting the 10 libraries, driving around the communities we serve and talking to people. I learned that staff took pride in offering excellent customer service and in having the materials that people wanted when they want them. There was a strong belief in the library’s responsibility to serve the community and to be good stewards. The library has earned a reputation for offering high quality youth services such as story times and summer reading. We con-

APRIL 2015 • 5

NEWS ducted a strategic planning process that identified four service priorities based upon what the community wanted. That plan has guided the district for the last three years, and we have focused on developing young learners, supporting job seekers and small business, encouraging people of all ages to explore and discover and creating new connections with and within the communities we serve. I have encouraged staff to try out new ideas and be out in the community listening, sharing and learning.

Q: You have a capital facilities bond scheduled for the ballot this August.

Tell us why you think passage of this initiative is important for SCLD and the community.

A: We hope to double the public library space serving the Millwood, Spokane Valley and unincorporated areas of the greater Spokane Valley. The current space is heavily used by people who come to borrow materials, read magazines, use computers and attend library programs and community meetings. As we have turned out to the community, we are meeting many experts who are willing to share their knowledge with others.

Through library programs, we are able to celebrate these wonderful community resources and offer a wide range of programming. The two new libraries and renovations of Argonne and Spokane

Valley libraries will provide more space for formal and informal learning as well as places where community members will gather. Technology is key to the services we offer, and we plan to provide a technology learning center where members can try out new software and have a place to learn with others who share similar interests. We plan to expand our business services so that entrepreneurs have a space to meet with clients and work on projects. Libraries will continue to offer students a place to study and will be a place where young people can gain experience as volunteers.

Q: How do you think this vote might be different than the one that narrowly failed on the ballot last April?

A: The 2014 election to fund new libraries received a 55 percent approval from voters. Many people congratulated us before they realized that we needed 60 percent. In the last six months, community members have stepped forwarding offering to help pass the next bond issue.

It is heartening to know that this next effort already has the support of many community members who are willing to ask friends and neighbors to support the library. This community-driven support is what we need to be successful this August.

Q: When you think about the state of SCLD in 2015, what are some of the as-

pects that make you most proud? What are some areas that still represent challenges?

A: I am really proud of the staff at SCLD. At each library, staff is going out into the community and responding to what they hear by hosting amazing programs and organizing community activities that help people connect with one another.

Last year, we challenged each library to host a new program and out of that came “Love Your Lake in Medical Lake,” the Seed Library in Otis Orchards, “Let’s Move Airway Heights” and “Centered on the Trail” at the Argonne Library. These community-based initiatives involved local partners and showcased resources from the library and the community. Simultaneously, staff stepped up districtwide programming for all ages. We now have Explore and Discover clubs that promote STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) through programs like the LEGO Days and Family Construction Zones at each library. Last fall, we offered CREATE, a series of programming to encourage people to explore their inner artist. Classes filled up so fast we scheduled additional sessions to meet demand. This spring, we launched NOURISH, with a series of fabulous programs encouraging healthy and sustainable living. Give them a challenge, and the staff at SCLD will soar beyond your expectations.

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The Current

6 • APRIL 2015

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CURRENT PHOTO BY JOSH JOHNSON

Accidents and close calls at the intersection of Trent Avenue and Starr Road in Newman Lake have led neighbors to rally for safety measures at the intersection. A town hall meeting is planned for April 21. The orange cones blocking off the turn lane in this photo aren’t normally there, but were placed temporarily while Starr Road closed for railroad overpass maintenance work in late March (taking place just out of the frame at right).

Neighbors rallying for safety measures Newman Lake residents seek improvements to intersection of Trent and Starr

By Lauren Campbell

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

In Newman Lake, the intersection of Trent and Starr is known for being an unusually dangerous one. Now, some locals are working to improve the safety features in the area and decrease the number of accidents and near-misses.

From 1999 to 2013, there were 40 collisions at the intersection, according to Jeanne Englund, one of the residents who is organizing a town hall meeting on April 21 to discuss how to make the intersection less dangerous. The meeting will be an opportunity for locals to talk with officials about possible short- and long-term fixes.

Denise Smart has been heavily involved in reaching out to politicians and other officials about attending the meeting. She said a Spokane County commissioner will be in attendance, as well as representatives from the Department of Transportation, two local fire departments, the Washington State Patrol, and the Spokane County Sheriff 's Department. The head of transportation for the East Valley School District is also attending.

“All it takes is one school bus getting hit by a semi for a tragedy to happen,” Smart said.

Smart moved to the area in 2010, and within a few months a young man was killed in the intersection and a neighbor of hers was in a serious accident. She knew then that this was a problem that needed to be addressed.

Many different aspects of the intersection come together to make it particularly dangerous. Trent Avenue is a common route for truckers coming into Spokane from North Idaho, and there is a slight hill right before the intersection. While the speed limit drops to 45 mph before the intersection with Starr, both Smart and Englund have noticed that it is rare for the trucks to actually decrease their speed.

On Starr, just south of Trent, there is a railroad overpass, decreasing visibility.

Additionally, the two roads do not intersect at a right angle, adding to the confusion.

“There's been a lot of positive word of mouth about the meeting,” Smart said. “A lot of people have said they're often afraid to turn into the businesses there because they're afraid that they'll get rear ended.”

The meeting hopes to achieve solutions both for the short and long term.

In the near future, they would like to implement inexpensive solutions. One possibility is to have the road striping

IF YOU GO ...

Town hall meeting discussing safety measures surrounding the intersection of Trent and Starr 7 p.m. April 21 Tri-Community Grange 25025 E. Heather Lane Newman Lake painted wider — 8 inches instead of the standard 4. Research shows that wider stripes make drivers perceive the road as narrower, causing them to pay more attention. Changing the speed limit — with the hope that a 35 mph speed limit would cause people to hew closer to the current 45 mph limit than the 55 or 60 many are currently traveling at — or installing signs with messages such as, “The Newman Lake community requests safe driving,” are also possibilities. Additionally, the activists request that the current speed limit be better enforced by the state patrol.

In the long term, more expensive solutions, such as a light or a rumble strip, may also be a possibility, but those require more long-range vision in order to be integrated into budget planning.

The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. April 21 at the Tri-Community Grange, 25025 E. Heather Lane in Newman Lake. Smart encourages interested community members who cannot attend to write a letter.

“This affects a lot of people — anybody that travels up to Newman Lake, out toward Rathdrum, or on Trent to or from Idaho,” Englund said. “We want to let them hear our voices.”

The Current

Leaky Gut and Autoimmune Conditions

By Monica Eggleston, ARNP Monica is a nurse practitioner board certified in family practice. She treats adults and children of all ages with a functional medicine approach at Lakeside Holistic Health. www.lakesideholistic.com / (208) 758-0568 A healthy gut is the foundation of overall health. It is home to most of our immune system and to the majority of our micro biome (all the organisms that live in us and on us), and is interconnected with all systems of the body. The gut produces and absorbs nutrients, secretes hormones, and makes neurotransmitters.

If the gut is inflamed (from certain foods or toxic substances), not func-

APRIL 2015 • 7 tioning well, or if the microbiome is out of balance, the result can be “leaky gut”, which is a breakdown in the normal gut lining and communication system, so that molecules that should stay in the gut, are actually slipping through and causing confusion in the immune system. This can trigger immune cells to then attack not only foreigners, but “self ” cells, and this “attack on self ” is autoimmunity.

The functional medicine approach to helping heal the gut is the “5R” approach: Remove problematic foods, substances, and harmful bacteria or yeast overgrowth, Replace things such as digestive enzymes which can help restore proper digestion, Repair with nutrients that help the gut such as zinc, vitamin A, glutamine, and curcumin, Reinoculate by re-introducing beneficial bacteria and fiber that feeds them, (probiotics and prebiotics), and Rebalance with sleep, stress management, and other lifestyle factors that impact gut health). If you have an autoimmune condition, it may benefit you to work through 5R with your practitioner.

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8 • APRIL 2015

The Current

Calendar of Events COMMUNITY EVENTS April 1 | Ready for Work: WinWay Resume Builder 6 to 7:30 p.m., Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave. Win employers over in this hands-on class built around the computer-based WinWay resume program. This program is for adults; registration required. For more: www.scld.org

16: Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave. Join us as we learn the history of the Titanic and a bit about buoyancy, propellers and water pressure. For children in grades K-5. For more: www. scld.org

April 10-13 | Barbecue Competition

April 1-4 | Photos with the Easter Bunny 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Wed. and Thurs.), 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Fri. and Sat.), Spokane Valley Mall. For more: www.spokanevalleymall.com

Uncle Leroy’s BBQ, 205 S. Pines. The first major barbecue competition of the season is open to the public on Saturday at 10 a.m., and at noon Pitmaster LeRoy Payne of Uncle LeRoy’s BBQ will hold a free seminar on how to prepare his award-winning ribs. For more: www.pnwba.com or 289-0708

April 4 | Let There Be Legos 10 a.m. to

April 11 | Frog Regatta Festival 1 to 3 p.m.,

5 p.m., Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave. All ages are welcome (adult should accompany children 6 and under) to drop in for an hour or all day to build to your heart’s content. For more: www.scld.org

April 4 | Community Easter Egg Hunt

11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 1831 S. Barker Road, Greenacres. This free family event includes games, inflatables, concessions and more. Hunts start at 12:30 for children up to 5th grade. For more: www.vrl.church

April 4 | Rockford Easter Egg Hunt 1 p.m., CHS/Primeland Park. The Rockford Lions Club is sponsoring this hunt for up to age 12.

April 5 | Easter April 7 | Organic Vegetable Gardening

6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave. Get all the basics for your vegetable garden in this class taught by Master Gardener Marilyn Lloyd. For more: www.scld.org

April 7 & 8 | Ready for Work: File Management for Job Seekers 6 to 7:30

p.m., April 7: Fairfield Library, 305 E. Main St.; April 8: Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave. Learn strategies to help you keep your most crucial documents safe and accessible. This program is for adults; registration required. For more: www.scld.org

April 7 | Spokane Valley Quilters Guild

7 p.m., Valley Assembly of God Church, 15618 E. Broadway. The featured speaker is Terry Engleman, a member of the local Appliqué Society.

Potluck will be at 6:30 p.m. For more: 924-6320

April 8 | Tween Club: Stenciled T-shirts

4 to 5 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Tweens in grades 4 and up can bring an old t-shirt to make into something new. For more: www.scld.org

April 9 | The Basics of Memory Loss, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease 6:30

to 8 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Learn about dementia and how to care for someone beginning to show symptoms. For more: www.scld.org

April 9-12 | Rainier Amusements Spring Fling Carnival Open at 2 p.m. April 9 and

noon April 10-12, Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. Buy single-ride tickets or an all-day ride pass for $20 and experience rides as many times as you can in a day. For more: 971-703-8558

April 9, 14 & 16 | Kids Explore and Discover Club: Titanic 4 to 5 p.m., April 9:

Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne; April 14: Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave.; April

Rockford City Park. FredNecks Saloon and the Rockford Lions Club is sponsoring this event which includes free hot dogs, games for kids and the frog regatta down Rock Creek. Frogs can be purchased for $5 in advance at local businesses or on the day of the festival.

April 11 & 12 | Coin & Stamp Show

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sat.) and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

(Sun.), CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place. Buy, sell and trade at over 50 tables with dealers from all over the Northwest. Admission is $2; kids 12 and under are free. For more: www.iecc-wa-org

April 11 | Community Conversation April

11 (1 to 2:30 p.m.): Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave.; April 23 (7:30 to 9 a.m.): Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne; April 25 (3 to 4:30 p.m.): Fairfield Library, 305 E. Main St. Make your voice heard as SCLD endeavors to find answers to what aspirations patrons have for their communities. To RSVP or for more: www.scld.org

April 11 | Family Construction Zone 2 to

4 p.m., Fairfield Library, 305 E. Main St. Ages one through eight are invited to build with block activities designed to foster engagement with math, science and engineering. For more: www. scld.org

April 14 & 15 | Ready for Work: Career Counseling 6 to 7:30 p.m., April 14: Fairfield

Library, 305 E. Main St.; April 15: Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave. Meet with employment specialists to discuss your career progress, set goals and find ways to accomplish them. This program is for adults; registration required. For more: www.scld.org

April 15 | Tax Day April 15 | Shred Day 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 13501 E. Sprague Ave. Bring up to five boxes of your personal, confidential or embarrassing documents, photos and records to be destroyed free of charge, compliments of STCU. For more: www.stcu.org

April 15 | Spokane Valley Book Club

2 to 3:30 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Join fellow book lovers to discuss “My Beloved World” by Sonia Sotomayor. For more: www.scld.org

April 15 | Community Visioning Meeting

6 to 8 p.m., CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place.

The meeting will include a presentation of the Vision Report, exercises based on the themes discussed at the previous and identification of the CAR Applications received. For more: 720-5335

April 17 | Spaghetti Feed 4 to 7 p.m., Tri Community Grange, Starr Road and Trent, Newman Lake. Dinner is all-you-can-eat salad, spaghetti,

bread, beverage and dessert; take-out orders welcome. Prices are $8 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under; children under 5 are free.

April 17 | Valleyfest Auction 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., CenterPlace Regional Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Place. Proceeds from the 7th Annual Valleyfest Auction will support Valleyfest 2015.

For more: www.valleyfest.org/auction2015.html April 17-19 | Shrine Circus Spokane Valley

Mall, 14700 E. Indiana Ave. Elephants, acrobats, daredevils and clowns will be part of the action in this old-fashioned big top circus. General admission tickets are $10. For show times and more: www.elkatifshrinecircus.org

April 18 | Stuff the Bus 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The public is invited to donate diapers to Inland Northwest Baby at local Walgreens and grocery stores. For more: 499-0670 or www.inlandnwbaby.org

April 17 | Blood Drive 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tri

Community Grange, Starr Road and Trent, Newman Lake. The Newman Lake Fire Auxiliary is sponsoring this drive. Bring donor card or driver’s license for ID. To register or for more: 991-7106 or www.inbcsaves.org

April 19 | Gabe Tesch Benefit Dinner & Auction 5 to 8 p.m., Freeman High School. Pro-

ceeds from this barbecue dinner and silent auction will go toward the expenses of Gabe Tesch’s family. For more: www.gabesavengers.com

April 21 & 22 | Ready for Work: Microsoft PowerPoint for Job Seekers 6 to 7:30 p.m., April 21: Fairfield Library, 305 E. Main St.; April 22: Otis Orchards Library, 22324 E. Wellesley Ave. Learn the basics of PowerPoint 2010 and get hands-on with the features commonly needed in the workplace. This program is for adults; registration required. For more: www.scld.org

April 23 | Online Tools for Home Chefs

7 to 8 p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Learn about the best websites and apps to help you find new recipes or organize all your old favorites. For more: www.scld.org

April 24 | Arbor Day April 24 | Cask and Keg Auction 5:30 p.m., Arbor Crest Wine Cellars, 4705 N. Fruit Hill Road.

Enjoy a night of fine wine, delicious cuisine and auction fun in support of Spokane Valley Firefighters Benevolent Association. Tickets are $50. For more: www.svffba.org April 24 | Reigning Cats and Dogs auction

Spokane Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana, Spokane Valley. The SCRAPS Hope Foundation is hosting this event to raise money for homeless and abused animals. The event features auctions, pet pageants, raffles and appetizers and desserts.

Tickets are $30 (or $35 at the door). For more: www.SCRAPSHopeFoundation.org

April 25 | Kiwanis Paint-A-Helmet 9 a.m. to

3 p.m., Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. Event where kids get bike helmets, paint them with their own design and have them fitted correctly. For more: spokane-valley. kiwanisone.org

April 25 | Friends Spring Tea 2 to 4 p.m., Meadowwood Technology Campus, 2100 N. Molter, Liberty Lake. Hosted by Friends of

See CALENDAR, page 10

Greenacres Baptist Church 18620 E. Sprague, Greenacres April 5 • 10:30 a.m.

For more: 926-8885 or gbcspokane.org Lakeside Church 23129 E. Mission, Liberty Lake April 3 • 7 p.m.: Good Friday service April 5 • 9 and 10:30 a.m.: Easter services For more: 210-9779 Liberty Lake Church 704 S. Garry Road, Liberty Lake April 5 • 8 and 10 a.m.: Easter services For more: www.libertylakechurch.com Millwood Community Presbyterian 3223 N. Marguerite Road, Millwood April 3 • 7 p.m.: Good Friday service April 5 • 7 a.m.: Sunrise Service at Arbor Crest Winery April 5 • 9:30 and 11 a.m.: Easter services For more: 924-2350 Otis Orchards Community Church 23304 E. Wellesley Ave., Otis Orchards April 3 • 7:30 p.m.: Good Friday communion April 5 • Early Easter service at 8 a.m., followed by 9 a.m. breakfast and a later 10 a.m. service For more: admin@otischurch.org Spokane Dream Church: Behold Jesus INB Performing Arts Center 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane This free drama production is in its 18th year.

April 4 • 1 and 6:30 p.m.

For more: 924-2630 or www.spokanedreamcenter.org St. Joseph Catholic Church 4521 Arden Road, Otis Orchards Holy Thursday, 7:15 p.m.

Good Friday, 7:15 p.m.

Easter Vigil, 8 p.m.

Easter Sunday, 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

For more: 926-7133 Sun City Church CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place April 5 • 10 a.m.: Easter service For more: www.suncitychurch.com Uplift Church 23424 Swing Lane, Liberty Lake April 5 • 9 and 11 a.m.: Easter services For more: www.upliftchurchll.org Valley Real Life 1831 S. Barker Road April 4 • 4 and 5:30 p.m.: Easter services April 5 • 8:15, 9:30 and 11 a.m.: Easter services For more: www.vrl.church — Source: Submitted information

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 9

Buy unique items from around the world!

Shop for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Weddings, Birthdays, Graduations and early Christmas gifts!

Fair Trade Event By supporting this event, you can help build a more just economy that benefits people and the planet — every purchase matters and is handmade with a story.

Saturday, April 25 | 2 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 26 | 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

St. Joseph Parish 4521 N Arden Rd | Otis Orchards | www.stjoeparish.org Sponsored by the Charity and Justice Committee of St. Joseph Parish.

St. Joseph Parish receives no remuneration for hosting this event.

Forgive www.forgivingprayer.com

CUSTER’S 40

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The Current

10 • APRIL 2015

COMMUNITY

CALENDAR Continued from page 8 Liberty Lake Municipal Library, the event includes a silent auction, finger foods, desserts and tea.

Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased at Liberty Lake Municipal Library.

April 25-26 | Fair Trade event 2 to 7 p.m.

West Valley High School Class of 1965

MUSIC & THE ARTS April 3-5 | 4th annual Playwright’s Festival Ignite! Community Theatre, 10814 E.

April 14 to June 4 | Small Business Boot Camp 5:30 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday and Thurs-

(Sat.) and 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Sun.), St. Joseph Parish, 4521 N. Arden Road, Otis Orchards.

Unique and handmade gifts will be available at this annual event. For more: www.stjoeparish.org

Broadway Ave. Productions are free during this weekend of short plays written by local playwrights. For more: www.ingiteonbroadway.org

April 28 | Too Fun Tuesday: Art Club 4 to 5

April 4 | Behold Jesus 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.,

p.m., Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. All ages welcome; children six and under should be accompanied by an adult. For more: scld.org

April 30 | Bowl For Kids’ Sake 6 to 8 p.m.,

Bumpers Fun Center, 12828 E. Sprague Ave. Each team member is asked to raise/donate $100 to Big Brothers Big Sisters, and then celebrate at a party with free bowling, pizza, soda, prizes and more. Cost is $100 per team. For more: www. nwbigs.org/bfks

Recurring 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: www.onsacredgrounds.com

Catholic Singles Mingle This group with no dues is for single adults of all ages. For more: www.meetup.com/Catholic-Singles-Mingle Liberty Lake Library 23123 E. Mission Ave.,

Liberty Lake. Various clubs and weekly meetings including book clubs, children’s story times, LEGO club, computer drop-in class, knitting club and more. For more: www.libertylakewa.gov/ library

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network 6:30 p.m. the first Monday of each month, Liberty Lake Municipal Library, 23123 E. Mission Ave. For more: www.pancan.org or 534-2564

Rockford Crochet Class 10 a.m. to noon,

Saturdays. The Harvest Moon, 20 S. First St. Hairpin Lace, knit, embroidery, needlepoint and arm knitting of infinity scarves are some of the activities. For more: 892-4412 or 291-3722

INB Performing Arts Center, 334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane. Spokane Dream Center is holding the 18th year of their drama production. There is open seating for this free event. For more: 9242630 or www.spokanedreamcenter.org

April 17-18 | “The Velveteen Rabbit”

7 p.m. (Fri.) and 2 p.m. (Sat.), Liberty Lake Community Theatre, 22910 E. Appleway Ave. All ages are invited to this Reader’s Theater family show.

Tickets are available for $7 at the door. For more: www.libertylaketheatre.com

April 18 | This, That or the Other 8 p.m., Liberty Lake Community Theatre, 22910 E. Appleway Ave. Tickets are $7 for this PG13 improv comedy.

For more: www.libertylaketheatre.com

May 1 | Jazz Under the Stars 6:30 to 9:30

p.m., Central Valley High School, 821 S. Sullivan Road. This fundraising event includes performances by CVHS Jazz band, a dessert and silent auction. Admission is $15 at the door (or $10 in advance). For more: 999-9880 or cvmbAuction@ hotmail.com

May 1 | Art scholarship deadline The Spo-

kane Valley Arts Council is offering four $1,000 scholarships to area high school seniors. Students must be enrolled in a high school within Central Valley, East Valley or West Valley school districts.

Qualifying students will be invited to show and sell their work at the Artist Showcase Art Auction on May 30. For more: www.spokanevalleyarts.org

Recurring Inland NW Bluegrass Music Association

ond Friday of each month (Feb. through Nov.), Harvest Moon, 20 S. First St. For more: 291-3193 or 838-4173

Music Showcase 7 to 9 p.m., third Saturday of the month (October through May), Trent Elementary School. Bluegrass bands and related acoustic performers of all ages are welcome. Cost is $5 for members; $7 for non-members. Ages 12 and under are free. For more: www.spokanebluegrass. org or 484-4668

Spokane County Library District Valley

Spirit of Spokane Chorus Tuesdays, 6:45

Rockford Historical Society 11:30 the sec-

branch 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. For more: www.scld.org

p.m., Opportunity Presbyterian Church, 202 N. Pines. Make new friends by joining this women’s chorus, specializing in four-part, a capella harmony in the barbershop style. For more: 218-4799

Spokane Valley Camera Club 7:15 p.m., third

Breakfast served Sundays 9 to 11:30 a.m. Lunch served Thursdays 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed

by Bingo from 1 to 3:30 p.m. For more: www. foe3433.com

and fourth Monday of the month (September through April), Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District building, 22510 E. Mission Ave. All levels of ability are invited to learn. Social events include field trips and workshops. For more: 951-1446 or www.sv-cc.org

Spokane Valley Kiwanis 6:45 a.m. Tuesdays,

— Digital night is April 20, print night is April 27

Spokane Valley Eagles 16801 E. Sprague.

Valley Hospital Education Center, 12606 E. Mission. For more: www.spokanevalleykiwanis.net

Spokane Valley Writer’s Group 6:45 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of every month, Lakeside Church, 23129 E. Mission. This supportive critique group welcomes adult writers.

For more: 570-4440

April 10-12 | Home Improvement Show

Noon to 7 p.m. (Fri.), 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Sat.) and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sun.), Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. This 16th annual show will feature over 200 exhibits to help you decorate, remodel and transform your home, inside and out. Admission is $8; kids 12 and under are free. For more: www.shba.com

A 50th class reunion weekend for alumni will be held Sept. 25-27. For the weekend schedule and more: www.alumni.wvsd.org, www.classmates. com, or “West Valley Class of ‘65 Reunion (50th)” on Facebook.

CIVIC & BUSINESS April 6 | Manufacturers’ Sneak Peek 4 to

9 p.m., Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. There is a free admission to this snowmobile sneak peek for Polaris, Ski-Doo and Yamaha. For more: www.snowsneakpeek.com

day, Spokane Community College. Topics for this eight-week workshop include determining the feasibility of a business idea, calculating start-up costs, marketing to customers and accessing resources available to small business owners.

Fee is $525 and registration ends April 7; space is limited. For more: 533-7391

from State Line to Mirabeau Park. Tandem bikes, helmets, transportation and guide included. Cost is $19. For more: 688-0300

April 12 | Ice Breaker Run 10 a.m., Hauser

Lake County Park, 10702 N. Fay Place. This 10K race benefits Double J Dog Ranch. To register or for more: www.doublejdogranch.org

April 13 & 27 | Beginning Meditation 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., April 13: Argonne Library, 4322 N. Argonne; April 27: Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Explore your natural capacity for focused relaxation in this introduction to basic meditation practices. For maximum comfort, please bring pillows or blankets. For more: www. scld.org April 18 | Introduction to Yoga 2 to 3 p.m.,

1100 N. Sullivan. Jim Frank of Greenstone Corporation will speak on “Urbanism and Building a Healthy Community.” For cost and more: www. spokanevalleychamber.org

Spokane Valley Library, 12004 E. Main Ave. Instructors from South Perry Yoga focus on getting those new to yoga (or those who have been away for a while) comfortable with some basic poses and routines. Open to adults and mature young adults of all fitness levels. For more: www. scld.org

April 18 | Military Appreciation Day at Spokane Valley Mall 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.,

April 18-19 | Evergreen Region Volleyball Championships 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., HUB Sports

April 17 | Business Connections Breakfast 7 to 9 a.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel,

Spokane Valley Mall. Members of the Armed Forces, active and retired, can present their photo ID to receive special discounts and giveaways. For more: www.spokanevalleymall.com

April 24-26 | Custer’s Spring Antique & Collectors Sale 4 to 9 p.m. (Fri.), 10 a.m. to 6

p.m. (Sat.) and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Sun.), Spokane Fair & Expo Center, 404 N. Havana Road. This event is the largest indoor sale of its kind in the Inland Northwest with 200 Dealers participating from all over the west coast. Admission, which is good for all weekend, is $6. For more: www. custershows.com

April 25 | Spokane Cork, Keg & Spirits Festival 7 p.m., Mirabeau Park Hotel and

Convention Center, 1100 N. Sullivan Road. The Washington Restaurant Association, Spokane Chapter, invites you to the premier beverage festival in Spokane featuring wine, beer and spirits from the Northwest and beyond. Cost is $50-$55.

For more: www.spokanecorkandkeg.com

HEALTH & RECREATION April 4 | Eclipse Volleyball Tournament

Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave. For more: www. evergreenregion.org

April 25 | Steps for Autism Walk 9 a.m.

Mirabeau Park south shelter. Cost is $25 for this walk sponsored by the Northwest Autism Center.

To register or for more: 328-1582 or www. nwautism.org

Recurring Bloomsday registration open This May 3 12-kilometer race is in downtown Spokane. To register or for more: www.bloomsdayrun.org KidFIT Spokane HUB Sports Center, 19619

E. Cataldo Ave. This children’s movement and fitness program offers classes in dance, gymnastics and cheerleading for girls and boys ages 3 and older. For more: 953-7501 or www. kidfitspokane.com

Liberty Lake Ladies’ Nine Hole Golf Club 9 a.m. Thursdays, Liberty Lake Golf Course, 24403 E. Sprague Ave. For more: 928-6854

Liberty Lake Running Club 6 p.m. Thurs-

April 6-9 | Spring Break Multi-sport Camp

days, Twisp Café & Coffee House, 23505 E. Appleway Ave. The club meets for a three-mile run weekly through October. There will be a special run for Earth Day on April 16. For more: 954-9806

April 11-12 | INK Volleyball Tournament

Sports opportunities HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave., Liberty Lake. Badminton, basketball open gym, pickleball, Zumba and other recreational options available. For more: www.hubsportcenter.org

8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave. For more: www.eclipsevbcspokane. org 9 a.m. to noon, HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave. Cost is $100 for this camp aimed at boys and girls in grades 4 through 8. For more: www.hubsportscenter.org 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., HUB Sports Center, 19619 E. Cataldo Ave. For more: www.inkvolleyball.com

April 11 & 12 | Spokane Bike Swap & Expo 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Spokane County Fair and

Expo Center, 404 N. Havana St. This expo aims to provide a wide range of affordable bicycle, bicycle-related products and services while raising money to help preserve the Spokane River Centennial Trail. Admission is $5; kids 12 and under are free. Donate a bike and get a free admission. For more: www.spokanebikeswap.com

April 12 | Tandem Bicycle Ride Along Centennial Trail 9 a.m. to noon, Mirabeau

Point Park, 13500 E. Mirabeau Parkway. Ages 15 and older and invited to enjoy a beautiful morning tandem bike ride along the Centennial Trail

Trailhead Ladies Nine Hole Golf Club Play for this weekly league at Trailhead Golf Course is Wednesday mornings April through September. For more: www.trailheadladies9.com or 879-7391 Windermere marathon registration open Registration for the June 7 marathon or half marathon from the Valley area to Spokane is open. To register or for more: www.windermeremarathon.com

All calendar listings were provided to or gathered

by Current staff. If you would like your event considered for the community calendar, please submit information by the 15th of the month to calendar@valleycurrent.com.

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 11

Valley Chamber

SHRINE CIRCUS

HIGHLIGHTS

Spokane Valley Mall

CONNECT.

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS » April 2 — Special »

»

Valley Transportation meeting April 17 — Business Connections Breakfast, Program: Urbanism and Building a Healthy Community May 13 — The 2015 Business Showcase

Visit the Connect tab on spokanevalleychamber.org for more details.

New members

Please join us in welcoming the following members who have recently joined the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber: Archbright Clean Green Spokane Ferguson Bath & Kitchen Gallery Grand Canyon University HCTC dba Healthcare Training Center Spokane Hoopfest ParaSport Spokane SCRAPS Servpro of the Spokane Valley

EMPOWER.

The Business Showcase

Presented by the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce A B2B trade show, featuring the latest products and services to grow your business.

INNOVATE.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015 Mirabeau Park Hotel & Convention Center 3 to 7 p.m.

The Business Showcase is your opportunity to showcase your business to potential business customers. Join us for this once-a-year opportunity when your business is our show!

Featuring: • 70 Exhibitors; 350-500 expected attendees • Networking time and space • Free parking and admission for attendees Why your business should exhibit: • Meet new potential clients • Introduce a new or innovative product or service • Build awareness for your brand • See what’s new and innovative in the marketplace

Reserve your preferred space before we sell out! For more information, please contact Courtney Susemiehl, Marketing & Events Coordinator, at 924-4994 or email: Courtney@spokanevalleychamber.org.

FRI APR

17

th SAT

3:00 PM, 7:00 PM

APR

18

th SUN

11:00 AM, 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM

APR

19

1:00 PM, 5:00 PM

Why you should attend: • See what’s new and innovative in the marketplace • Meet and shop for new potential vendors • Valley Chamber networking

Support your local Shriners

509.747.0132 Purchase tickets online

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

th

elkatifshrinecircus.org

12 • APRIL 2015

PROFILES

The Current

Freeman boy battling cancer with support from his ‘Avengers’

By Treva Lind

Age 11

Birthday April 28

School

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Most people who know 11-year-old Gabe Tesch describe his ever-present smile, even in tough times.

That rough season blew in last fall, and now a Freeman community group called “Gabe’s Avengers” is backing his strength as the sixth-grader faces a long series of treatments for brain cancer. The community is holding a dinner-auction April 18 to raise funds to help his family pay for his medical costs.

This past September, Gabe had surgery, and weeks later, he and his mother Sherrie left for a lengthy stay in Seattle for his cancer treatments. He finished his proton radiation treatments at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center on Christmas Eve, and on Dec. 29 had another surgery to install a port where he could receive his next round of chemotherapy.

“I’m now back home close to family and friends,” he said.

Back here, Gabe now goes regularly into Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital in Spokane as he completes a required 23 treatments over 46 weeks that started in January and will end in December.

“He’s in really good spirits,” said his dad, Jake Tesch. “He always has a smile on his face, no matter what.”

Gabe keeps up with his sixth-grade school work, thanks in part to Freeman Middle School coordinating tutors to come to his home to support his ongoing studies, his father said. Gabe also enjoys family time and has two sisters: Grace, 15, and Ali, 17.

“Gabe enjoys any kinds of sports and activities with friends and family,” Jake Tesch said. “He’s kind of amazing because he cares deeply for everyone around him.

He’s sick, and he is always asking if we’re OK. If you talk to his teachers, they will tell you he’s always a kid who wants to make sure no one gets picked on, and he really cares about the other kids.”

He added, “Gabe has a very strong faith.

Ever since he was little, he’s interested in the Bible and Bible stories. He wanted Bible action figures before he wanted G.I. Joe. He’s always been that way.”

Readers will find a common theme about Gabe’s deep empathy for others as teachers and friends describe him on the www.gabesavengers.com website, which tells of his progress and describes the upcoming dinner-auction. Community members have written about his perpetual kindness.

GABE TESCH

Freeman Middle School (sixth grade)

If I were a superhero, I’d be …

The Hulk

Favorite hobby Sports car racing

Family Sisters Grace, 15, and Ali,17; dad, Jake; mom, Sherrie

Favorite subject in school History

“The Freeman community is amazing,” Jake Tesch added. “We built our home here in 2007, and we chose the area where we built for the Freeman community because we heard such good things about it. The parents and people who are part of the whole community, they’re just great people. We feel very blessed to be part of Freeman.”

Gabe has been in Freeman since preschool, and since then has made numerous friends.

As his dad said, “Gabe always cares about everyone else and just wants them to be OK. He’s one of those kids everyone wants to be around. He’s always been positive and filled with joy.”

His dad said his classmates came up with the idea for the name, Gabe’s Avengers.

“Freeman, the community, has spearheaded this whole thing,” he said. “We have very little involvement. The community of Freeman has taken it upon themselves to care for Gabe this way.”

IF YOU GO ...

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Freeman Middle School sixth-grader Gabe Tesch, 11, is battling brain cancer, but not without the support of a community. A Freeman community group known as “Gabe’s Avengers” is rallying support for Gabe and his family. A barbecue dinner and auction will be held April 18.

“If Gabe was the king of the world, everything would be fair, everyone would be nice, no one would be sad and smiles would be mandatory,” said Denise Conrad, Freeman school counselor.

Teacher Dani Boyd wrote, “I had the privilege to help teach Gabe during his fifth grade year. Each time he walked into my room, he would flash that adorable grin of his — you know the one I mean, the one that can light up an entire room — and no matter how I was feeling before

he came in, that grin would always make my day brighter.”

His friends also say Gabe is your typical 11-year-old boy who enjoys watching comedies, playing with Legos and video games and hanging out with the family dog, Angus. The hobby of sports-car racing is edging up fast among his interests.

Jake Tesch said that as long as Gabe feels up to it, he plans to go to the community dinner and benefit.

Gabe Tesch Benefit Dinner & Auction April 18, 5 p.m. barbecue dinner and silent auction; 8 p.m. live auction Freeman High School, 14626 S. Jackson Road, Rockford Tickets available online for the barbecue: adults, $15; children 6-12, $8; child’s hot dog dinner, $5. Limited tickets will be available at the door for adults: $20; child BBQ, $10; and child hot dog meal, $7. Free admission to attend the auction only.

For more or to purchase tickets, visit gabesavengers.com.

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 13

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HISTORY

14 • APRIL 2015

The Current

Valley history buried beneath the land

By Tyler Robbins and Jayne Singleton SPOKANE VALLEY HERITAGE MUSEUM

There are cemeteries scattered throughout the Greater Spokane area. There’s large ones (Greenwood) and smaller ones (Chester), but they all have a story to tell. The Valley cemeteries tell the story of the people who left their mark on the Spokane Valley.

A lot of these cemeteries are found within neighborhoods and tucked away from

all the noise of the city. They are peaceful and picturesque yet have so much to say.

When walking through one of these sites, you’re walking amongst history. In one cemetery, you could walk by a SpanishAmerican War veteran then take a few steps and be standing in front of our 1940s state Senate member, Tom Bienz. All these people played a role in shaping the Valley, and their story is preserved in the dash (—) between their birth and death dates.

Whenever in a cemetery, a quote by British historian George Trevelyan comes to mind: “The poetry of history lies in the quasi-miraculous fact that once, on this familiar spot of ground, walked other men and women, as actual as we are today, thinking their own thoughts, swayed by their own passion, but now all gone, one generation vanishing after another, gone as utterly as we ourselves shall shortly be gone like ghosts at cock-crow.”

The people buried in these cemeteries lived the story of the Spokane Valley so we can stand here today and tell it.

Tyler Robbins is a research archivist for the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum and a history graduate of Eastern Washington University. Jayne Singleton is the museum’s director. For more about this article or other aspects of our community’s heritage, visit the museum at 12114 E. Sprague Ave. or call 922-4570.

Mary Elizabeth Carder, who died of burns sustained in a house fire, and her husband, John, are buried at Woodlawn Cemetery.

Joe Ulowetz stands with his mother at the grave of his wife, Teresa Blessing Ulowetz, at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

ST. JOSEPH’S CEMETERY 17825 E. Trent Ave.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SPOKANE VALLEY HERITAGE MUSEUM

Mary Courchaine, along with her husband, Daniel, is buried in Saltese Cemetery. One of Spokane Valley’s earliest families, the Courchaines donated the land for the cemetery, which is located west of where they built a farmhouse in 1878 that is still standing today.

This Trentwood cemetery was opened in 1892 and survived a fire that destroyed the accompanying church in 1929. The property is known for a shrine that Henry Arbes began building in 1955. Arbes was an ex-painter from the Navy Supply Depot and member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. The shrine he designed and constructed includes a 900-pound statue of St. Joseph, a 12-foot-tall cross, the 14 Stations of the Cross and a small stone temple in the woods behind the cemetery. Arbes is buried here.

909 S. Thierman Road

Formerly known as Englewood Cemetery, this property opened in 1892. It was abandoned for years until renovations re-opened it in the early 2000s, when Spokane County deeded the property to Fairmount Memorial Association with the stipulation it would be turned into a viable cemetery. One of the residents in the cemetery is Mary Elizabeth Carder. Mrs. Carder died in August 1905 in a house fire. While the house was on fire, Mrs. Carder was stuck on the upper floor. She was able to save one of the grandchildren by dropping him to his father but was unable to make it down to the other grandchild before she was forced to jump out a window. She died a couple days later from her burns.

PINES CEMETERY

SALTESE CEMETERY

1402 S. Pines Road

17615 E. 32nd Ave.

The Saltese Cemetery is home to some of Spokane Valley’s first families. The Courchaines, Linkes and Morrisons are all buried here. The property was donated by Daniel Courchaine and included an Indian burial ground with unmarked graves. The cemetery was across the road from the school and served the tight-knit community. One community member buried there was a Civil War veteran for the Union. William Peterson was a veteran of many battles, including Gettysburg and Antietam. With Mica Peak in the background, this cemetery is very peaceful.

WOODLAWN CEMETERY

Buell Felts was a Washington Air National Guard aviator who was killed in a plane crash in May 1927. Later that year, Parkwater Airstrip was renamed Felts Field in his honor. He was buried in Pines Cemetery.

Pines Cemetery was incorporated in 1910 and has grown over the years to add a lot across the street and a new location, called South Pines Cemetery, on 32nd and Highway 27. The two cemeteries are operated today by Fairmount Memorial Association. The Pines Cemetery was the scene of tragedy brought on by the Great Depression. In 1931, 28-year-old Virgil Crawford took his own life in frustration in front of the cemetery. Crawford was a Valley boy who became ill and depressed when work became hard to find and he couldn’t hold down a job.

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 15

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16 • APRIL 2015

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

The Current

Summit mobilizes resources for foster care, adoptive families

By Craig Howard

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Back in 2011, Jason Wiens was part of a local movement that set out to answer a few questions, or at least find people who could.

Along with the shortage of foster and adoptive families in Washington state, Wiens and others saw a scarcity of educational resources for those seeking to help.

Incorporating themes of “encourage, resource and mobilize,” organizers set out to organize an event — part support group, part enriching seminar — that would feature some of the region’s leading experts and authors.

Wiens and his colleagues hoped to provide a reliable networking hub that would, in his words, provide “emotional, informational and community support.”

“There seemed to be a lack of information readily available to adoptive/foster families,” said Wiens. “We saw a need and the possibility to begin to connect people to some of the resources.”

Bringing together community organizations, counseling support, information about adoptive agencies and local churches, the Spokane Orphan Summit (SOS) premiered in 2012. Wiens, Linda Rogers, Suzie Toews, Dustin Greenup and other catalysts rallied support for the inaugural event that drew around 100 attendees. Nearly 40 churches and organizations were represented from throughout the region. Each year, the conference has grown. Close to 400 people and double the original number of churches and groups participated in 2014.

“The SOS has helped to educate people in the community about the needs of orphaned and other vulnerable children in our area and around the world,” Wiens said. “We are trying to bring people in to talk about the many faces of orphans.

We also have tried to bring many speakers and organizations in to show all the different ways people can be involved in helping orphans and those who care for orphans.”

The fourth annual Spokane Orphan Summit (SOS) will take place April 24-25 at Eastpoint Church in Spokane Valley. A Professional and Foster Parent Training Day is scheduled for the first day with the conference to follow.

“Since 2012, we have remained true to our vision and mission to encourage, resource and mobilize,” said SOS Director Amy Callahan, who has helped with the event from the start. “We seek to encourage folks looking into foster care and

IF YOU GO ...

The fourth annual Spokane Orphan Summit will take place April 24-25 at Eastpoint Church, 15303 E. Sprague Ave. in Spokane Valley. A Professional and Foster Parent Training Day is scheduled for the first day with the conference to follow.

Guest speakers include:

SUBMITTED PHOTOS BY ZAK JOHNSON

Guest speakers and a series of workshops highlight the fourth annual Spokane Orphan Summit at Eastpoint Church, 15303 E. Sprague Ave. in Spokane Valley. These photos are from the 2014 event.

“Often times, foster and adoptive parents and relative caregivers feel isolated and alone. We have created a safe place for them to know they are not alone — a place where they can get muchneeded support.”

— AMY CALLAHAN

adoption, we seek to resource foster and adoptive and relative caregivers with help and support and we challenge the church to mobilize in caring for the fatherless, vulnerable children and their families here and abroad.”

There are approximately 10,000 children currently in the Washington foster system and a continuing need for foster families. Children are placed in the system for a variety of reasons that range from abuse, neglect, drug and alcohol use by parents and lack of financial resources. Child Protective Services responds to issues of concern and transitions endangered kids to safe, secure environments.

A stay in the foster system could range from a few days until children are placed

RESOURCES For more information on the 2015 Spokane Orphan Summit, visit SpokaneOrphanSummit.com or call Amy Callahan at 208-661-6160.

Additional resources include: • The local office of Child Protective Services can be reached at 363-3333. A 24-hour, seven day a week CPS crisis line can be reached at 1-866-END-HARM (1-866-363-4276).

• Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery is located at 1004 E. Eighth Ave. in Spokane and can be reached at 535-3155.

• Lutheran Community Services Northwest (747-8224) offers support and counseling for victims of neglect and abuse. with other family or longer in a foster home or permanent adoptive situation.

Local resources like the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery, where parents can bring infants and toddlers for shorter stays, and

See SUMMIT, page 17

• Deborah Gray, renowned child and family therapist and author of many articles and three published books. She speaks April 24.

• Dr. Julia Bledsoe, clinical professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington and one of two staff pediatricians at the university’s Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Diagnostic and Prevention Network in Seattle. She founded the Center for Adoption Medicine and is mom to two children adopted from Korea.

• Mike and Jodie Howerton, parents to three children, one of whom was adopted from South Africa. Mike is the lead pastor at Overlake Christian Church in Redmond and author of two books.

Jodi led the effort at her son’s school to update and improve HIV/AIDS education.

• Russ and Lisa Qualls, parents to 11 kids, four of whom are adopted. Lisa writes and speaks for Empowered to Connect and writes the blog, “One Thankful Mom.” • Tara Bradford, an adoptee and mom of five children, two by birth and three by adoption from Ethiopia. Married 20 years, Tara resides in Montana and is the director of Encompass Orphan Care.

• Andrew and Michele Schneidler, parents to three children, all adopted.

Andrew is the founder and director of The Permanence Project and The Children’s Law Center of Washington.

Michele is the director of Local Orphan Care for Overlake Christian Church. Together, they are founders of the Refresh Conference.

Cost is $40 for the training day on April 24. The conference on April 25 is $15 for an individual; $25 for a couple and $40 for a family. Fee includes lunch. Registration is available at www.SpokaneOrphanSummit.com.

The Current

SUMMIT Continued from page 16

Hutton Settlement, a home for foster kids in east Spokane Valley, provide refuge.

This year, organizers have incorporated a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization called Inland Orphan Partners (IOP) that will lead the way with SOS and additional programs.

“IOP and the organizations in the Inland Northwest who choose to collaborate together will make the SOS a success along with other networking and educa-

APRIL 2015 • 17

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT tional opportunities,” Wiens said.

In addition to serving as an educational resource for foster and adoptive families, Callahan said the summit has helped increase the level of collaboration among groups dedicated to supporting kids.

“I look at it as building a bridge,” she said. “We have approached the states, both Washington and Idaho, to express we are here to support you. We now have over 70 churches, agencies, organizations and ministries all working together for the betterment of caring for the children in our care.”

Callahan said the summit has also made strides in addressing certain stereotypes.

“The general perception of orphans is that it’s a far-removed concept and a nice cause to support internationally,” Callahan said.

“The statistics, though, are staggering for children and youth who are taken into foster care. To localize it, almost every school in our area has foster children who are attending or have attended that school. And while that foster child is not an "orphan" according to Webster's Dictionary, they very much are a child or youth who is without a permanent family for however long.”

As the latest rendition of the conference approaches, Callahan says she is encouraged about the supportive mobilization that is taking place.

“I think more than changing or removing stigmas, Spokane Orphan Summit has created a safe place to talk about the realities of the stigmas society places on kids from difficult places,” Callahan said. “Often times, foster and adoptive parents and relative caregivers feel isolated and alone. We have created a safe place for them to know they are not alone — a place where they can get much-needed support.”

18 • APRIL 2015

LIBRARY SCLD offers ways to nourish self, others

The Current

April brings spring programming, ‘Food for Fines’

The Food for Fines program, which offers $1 off fines for each donated food item, is being offered for the third year at Spokane County Library District.

By Mary Kate Koch

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Celebrate National Library Week with a donation of food to the Second Harvest Food Bank and reduce your overdue fees!

April 12–18, 2015, bring in a non-perishable food item and receive $1 off any overdue fees for each item.* Donations benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank and their networks in Cheney, Deer Park, Fairfield, and Medical Lake. *$10 maximum forgiven per library account. Food for Fines can only be applied to overdue and/or damaged items fees. Cannot be applied to lost item charges or accounts referred to collection.

With the changing of the seasons comes a changing in library activities in the Spokane County Library District. SCLD has two major programs starting up to welcome spring as it comes into full bloom. In April, SCLD is offering a Food for Fines program and beginning Nourish, the program series for the spring.

Food for Fines, which runs April 12 to 18, offers amnesty to library members for any overdue fees in return for donations of nonperishable food items to Second Harvest Food Bank of Spokane County. Each donated food item at any of the 10 SCLD library locations equates to $1 off library fines with a maximum of $10 off in fines.

“This will be our third year of the Food for Fines drive, and we’ve had great success in the past two years,” SCLD Deputy Director Patrick Roewe said. “5,017 pounds of food were donated in 2013, and 3,168 pounds were donated in 2014. What’s been very encouraging to see the last two years is that the amount of food donated has far exceeded the amount of fines waived, which underscores the care and generosity our community demonstrates.”

According to Second Harvest, proteins like peanut butter, beans and canned meats are most appreciated. Second Harvest also welcomes canned or dried fruits and vegetables, as well as grains like rice and pasta. More information regarding preferred foods can be found at www.2-harvest.org.

SCLD’s spring program, Nourish, will start in April and run through June. The series of events and activities will encourage establishing new health and wellness habits.

“Spring is when we start planting our gardens again and start thinking again about wellness in general,” Library Services Manager Gwendolyn Haley said. “The idea for Nourish came from talking to my colleagues about the different ways we nourish our minds, bodies and spirits. Whether it’s through exercise, food or creative expression, there are many ways to feed the body.”

Exercise activities will include an introduction to yoga program for adults and mature young adults at all fitness levels. In addition, there will be a tai chi introduction and mindfulness meditation. These classes were picked because they are gentle exercises that emphasize wellness and healthy awareness.

Food wise, a fermentation class is planned to teach participants how to prepare fruits and vegetables for natural preservation. A local chef is coming in to talk about cook-

ing locally and the regional food resources of Spokane. The Chocolate Apothecary is also running a coffee and chocolate pairing event.

“If you’re anything like me, you know that coffee and chocolate are essential to nurturing the mind and body,” Haley said.

There will also be classes held to teach the community about using online tools for health and fitness, home cooking and couponing. This is in an effort to help people establish wellness and health management as part of a daily routine.

“We hope these activities will help people better think about their general wellness,” Haley said. “We also want these events to get people connected with wellness recourses and with people who share their wellness interests. If you are interested in yoga, then hopefully you connect with others who feel the same in the yoga class.”

The full schedule of Nourish programming can be found at www.scld.org/nourish.

sure, not catching up on professional journals or work emails. When I vacation, I require a lot of reading material which can be really heavy to tote around (not to mention the excess baggage fees). You know how it is: a book for the plane, a book for the return trip, a book for each day I’m actually on vacation and a stack of magazines in case I’m not in the mood for my books or just want quick reads.

On this trip, I loaded up a tablet with eBooks and magazines from our digital collection.

This spring is the perfect time to try out Zinio, SCLD’s digital magazine collection.

Zinio provides full digital access to current issues of popular magazines, and you can read them in a web browser or using the Zinio app. There are a number of magazines in Zinio that cover an abundance of

topics. With titles like “Yoga for Beginners,” “Saveur,” “Better Homes and Gardens,” “Food Network,” “Prevention” and “Country Living,” you are sure to find a magazine to suit your interests. Even better, they won’t weigh down your luggage on your next trip.

If you have a current SCLD card, accessing Zinio is easy — just select Digital Library from our website homepage. If you’re using a tablet or smart phone, you can download the Zinio app from our website at www.scld.org/apps.

Resource Review

By Gwendolyn Haley

SPOKANE COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT

www.scld.org

SUBMITTED PHOTO

This April, Spokane County Library District has a series of programs that focus on nourishing our whole selves. In that spirit, my husband and I took a week-long vacation and flew somewhere warmer.

Unlike our normal vacations, we traveled without our children (a first) and did not visit family or friends (another first) with the sole purpose of relaxing.

Relaxing to us means reading for plea-

Gwendolyn Haley is a Library Resources Manager at Spokane County Library District.

Brought to you by

Peyton Flock, pictured above with teacher Ashley Bell and mom Starla Flock, was honored at the March 5 Chase Youth Awards for leadership.

S U B M IT T

E D P H OT

O

CURRENT PHOTO BY TAMMY KIMBERLEY

Adam, Lucas and Ashley Sessions won a Youth Chase Award for their environmental efforts.

Saluting super kids Chase Youth Commission celebrates youth who are making a difference

By Tammy Kimberley CURRENT STAFF WRITER

It’s no surprise that the Valley area is full of amazing leaders, active environmentalists and courageous spirits, many of whom are still in elementary school!

The Chase Youth Commission takes time each year to honor kids and teens who are striving to make positive choices and impact others. This year’s winners were recognized on March 5, and The Current got to recently sit down with some of the elementary-age winners to hear about how they are making a difference in their communities.

Peyton Flock was nominated for a Chase Youth Award in leadership by Ness Elementary teacher Ashley Bell. She had Peyton in her class last year and now serves as his current fifth grade teacher, where she’s observed him leading in the classroom, on the

playground and at his hockey games.

“He’s someone I can trust to run errands, helps younger kids on the playground and always says thank you, even when I give him homework,” Miss Bell said. “He is very modest and one of the most mature and hard-working kids I have ever met.”

The son of James and Starla Flock, Peyton was selected to attend a civics conference at Eastern Washington University with others from his school in February. In addition, he is a talented hockey player who competes on a team with older sixth- and seventhgrade students.

“I usually try to pump up my team. I get on the ice first and high five everyone,” Peyton said. “I think my teammates respect me for it.”

Peyton said he’s learned a lot about how to treat others from his dad, a sales rep, who Peyton described as a happy, energetic guy who is nice to everyone even if they shut them down.

Ashley, Adam and Lucas Sessions, who won the elementary group award for environment, said their parents receive part

2015 CHASE YOUTH AWARD WINNERS FROM THE VALLEY ARTS & CREATIVITY  Miranda Kuhlmann, Greenacres Middle School

CULTURAL AWARENESS  Genesis Wilkinson, East Valley Middle School

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT  West Valley City School Dept. of Fish & Wildlife students

 Cameron

COURAGE  Karlie Kelly, Continuous Curriculum School  Evan

Gilbert, Freeman Middle School

Connor, West Valley High School ENVIRONMENT  Ashley, Adam and Lucas Sessions, Ponderosa Elementary and Horizon Middle School Brown, Summit School

LEADERSHIP  Peyton Flock, Ness Elementary  Colton Ellingson, West Valley City School  Cordelia

Achen, East Valley High School  Central Valley Rally in the Valley

 Richard  Boy

Scout Troop 431

of the credit for their award due to their efforts in helping them manage their family garden and raise animals. The family lives just down the road from Ponderosa Elementary where the two younger boys attend.

For a complete list, visit chaseyouthspokane.org.

The kids explained how family friends inspired them to raise chickens, which led to garden boxes they built by hand.

While the kids described the first season

See SUPER, page 22

The Current

20 • APRIL 2015

COMMUNITY

Game of stones

By Tammy Kimberley

CURRENT STAFF WRITER

A diamond is the gemstone associated with April, but did you know each month has a special birthstone? It’s true, and it’s popular to give jewelry or other trinkets with these gemstones as gifts. Astrologers used to proclaim supernatural power came from certain gemstones. Today many people believe wearing your birthstone can bring good luck and good health.

If you’ve ever wondered where the idea of birthstones came from, it’s actually an interesting tale found in the Bible. When

Moses asked Pharaoh to set the Israelites free, his brother Aaron helped lead the people. Aaron is recorded to have worn a breastplate that held four rows of three stones each to represent each of the 12 tribes of Israel. Biblical scholars were not able to identify the exact stones, but they came to also represent the 12 months in the year and the 12 signs of the zodiac.

To learn more about the gems associated with each month, read the descriptions below and match up with your best guess.

Answers can be found at the bottom of the page.

Discovering the world of diamonds Check out the following fun facts about April’s birthstone Compiled by Sarah Burk

CURRENT GRAPHICS EDITOR

✴ Most diamonds are between one and three billion years old.

4

7

10

Garnet (January)

Diamond (April)

Ruby (July)

Opal (October)

2

5

8

11

Amethyst (February)

Emerald (May)

Peridot (August)

Topaz (November)

3

6

9

12

Aquamarine (March)

Pearl (June)

Sapphire (September)

Turquoise (December)

A. Ancient sailors often

carried this gem believed to ward off accidents and illnesses.

B. This rare gemstone is

second in hardness to the diamond.

C. These red jewels were

also used as bullets in ancient times because the stone was said to cause more dangerous wounds than regular bullets.

D. This gem is formed inside

oysters and mussels over a process that can take up to eight years.

E.

Found in Sri Lanka, this gem is mined from the deepest layers of the earth’s crust.

F. This crowning jewel was a favorite of Queen Cleopatra from ancient Egyptian times.

G. Aluminum and fluorine

comprise this gemstone.

H. Australia is the source of the majority of this mineral gem found in a wide variety of rock formations.

I. Usually an olive green color, this gem was once powdered to cure asthma.

J. Mined primarily from

volcanic rock in Africa and Brazil, these jewels have adorned British crowns as well as those worn by Egyptian royalty.

K. The Persian word for this

gemstone is “ferozah,” which means victorious.

L. This durable gemstone is a natural choice for wedding and engagement rings.

Source: infographicsite.com/913/birthstones/

Answers to Game of stones: 1) C 2) J 3) A 4) L 5) F 6) D 7) B 8) I 9) E 10) H 11) G 12) K

1

✴ Ancient Romans and Greeks believed that diamonds were tears cried by the gods or splinters from falling stars. Romans believed that Cupid’s arrows were tipped with diamonds. ✴ The word diamond comes from the Greek word “adamas,” which means unconquerable or indestructible. ✴ Diamonds worn in ancient times were believed to promote strength, invincibility and courage. ✴ A law in 13th century France decreed that only the king could wear diamonds. ✴ Until the 18th century, the only diamond mines were in India. The top three diamond mines in the world currently are in Botswana, Russia and Canada. ✴ Diamond crystals are formed 100 miles below ground and are carried to the earth’s surface through volcanic activity. ✴ In their pure state, diamonds are colorless. Yellow and brown are the most common colors; blue and red are the rarest. ✴ A diamond must be heated to 1,292 degrees Fahrenheit (which is hotter than a typical house fire) to burn, making them virtually fireproof. ✴ Carbon is the main ingredient in a diamond. The only thing that can scratch a diamond is another diamond because they are the hardest natural substance found in nature. ✴ The largest rough diamond ever discovered was called the Cullinan diamond. Discovered in 1905 in South Africa, it weighed in at 3,106 carats, or 1.33 pounds. ✴ Even though the U.S. produces almost no diamonds, America buys close to half of the world’s gem-quality diamonds, making it the world’s largest diamond market.

Sources: www.heartsonfire.com/history-of-diamonds/fun-facts-about-diamonds.aspx, www.brilliantearth.com/news/15-amazing-facts-about-diamonds/

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 21

COMMUNITY

Local kids use eggs Kids Tell It Like It Is as contest canvas In honor of National Sibling Day on April 10, what do you love most about your brother/sister?

Compiled by Tammy Kimberley at Central Valley Kindergarten Center

Wave announces spring contest winner In the March issue, The Wave offered a contest where kids were asked to creatively decorate an Easter egg. We received several colorful entries from local kids who got in the spirit of Easter a little early.

Our judges selected Nellie Goggin’s multicolored egg as first prize in the contest. For her prize, the Otis GOGGIN Orchards 5-yearold was given an Easter basket full of toys and treats.

Thank you to all the kids who entered eggs in this coloring challenge. Be sure to watch for more contests in future issues of The Wave!

Area activities in April With a circus in town, frogs on the loose and plenty of egg hunts, the Valley is the place to be in April!

Check out just some of this month’s kid-friendly events below.

Photos with the Easter Bunny April 1 to 4, various times JC Penney Court, Spokane Valley Mall

ONE* Easter Egg Hunt

April 4, 10 a.m.

24th and Sullivan Over 50,000 eggs plus jump castles, a petting zoo, face painting, pictures with the Easter Bunny and an appearance of the Minions at this free event.

Liberty Lake Easter Egg Hunt

April 4, 11 a.m.

Pavillion Park, Liberty Lake Registration of $3 or six eggs filled with wrapped candy occurs March 30 and April 2 at Liberty Lake Municipal Library.

Community Easter Egg Hunt

April 4, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Valley Real Life, 1831 S. Barker Road The family event includes egg hunts for children up to fifth grade, carnival games, prizes, inflatables, concessions and more.

“If I sleep in too long, she wakes me up like a personal alarm clock.”

Libby Shuster, 6

“I love playing with my two younger brothers, but sometimes they don’t share with me.”

Samantha Huffman, 6

“I love it when my sister plays Sorry and Checkers with me.”

Emmarella House, 6

“Sometimes they share candy with me.”

Max Wharton, 6

“My sister smiles a lot.”

Garrett Plemmons, 5

“When my older brother and sister play outside with me.”

Brookeslee Colvin, 6

“When my older sister says yes to playing Littlest Pet Shop with me.”

Izzy Pooley, 5

“My older brother asks if I want to be his apprentice when we play sorcery.”

Sophia Monrroy, 6

“Sometimes my 9-year-old brother lets me play with his remotecontrolled car.”

Hunter Thompson, 6

Congratulations to Canaan!

He’s the latest KiDDS Dental No Cavity Club winner!

Canaan won a $25 Toys “R” Us gift card and a photo session with

Rockford Easter Egg Hunt April 4, 1 p.m.

CHS/Primeland Park, Rockford

Easter Egg Hunt

tanyasmith.net

April 5, 10:30 a.m.

Millwood Community Presbyterian Church, 3223 N. Marguerite Road, Millwood

Frog Regatta Festival

April 11, 1 to 3 p.m.

Rockford City Park Free hot dogs and games for kids will be available prior to sending frogs down Rock Creek.

Call us to schedule an appointment to see if your child is cavity-free!

Shrine Circus

April 17-19, various times Spokane Valley Mall parking lot General admission tickets start at $10.

509.891.7070 1327 N. Stanford Ln, Ste B • Liberty Lake • www.GrowUpSmiling.com

Grow Up Smiling!

Check out our Facebook page for contests and events!

22 • APRIL 2015

COMMUNITY

SUPER Continued from page 19

as “depressing” with a small yield, they learned how to add organic nutrients to the soil which led to an amazing harvest the following summer.

“It was more work than we were used to,” Ashley said. “Every day, we had to work in the garden and feed the animals.

The kids even helped their dad, Adam Sr., build a greenhouse where they farm their own fish. Enjoying the results of their labor — such as fresh corn, snap peas, lettuce — is what makes it really worth it.

“When we get hungry, we grab something out of the garden and eat it,” Adam said.

Sheila Sessions, their mom, said it was pretty amazing for the kids to be recognized for their hard work.

“Every family should try gardening because you bond together and it benefits everybody,” she said.

Being honored for an award seems to

run in the family of another elementary recipient. Karlie Kelly was nominated by Camp Fire USA and won an award for courage this year. The daughter of Mike and Patti Kelly, the Continuous Curriculum School student was described as someone who once was afraid to go on stage at her dance recital and struggled in school. Over time, she has worked to gain confidence and now regularly performs in front of people in gymnastics and earns all As and Bs in school.

The Current

Posting Date March 30, 2015

“She’s not afraid to try and try hard,” Patti said. “I think people admire that, especially in kids who are small like her.”

But that wasn’t the first time Karlie has been to the Chase Youth Awards. Her sister Katelyn won in the leadership category for middle school groups last year due to her work in raising money for local charities through CCS’s student body organization.

“I want them to be responsible citizens that help take care of the needs in the community,” Patti said. “Hopefully this will encourage them to reach a little further and try a little harder to do so.”

CURRENT PHOTO BY TAMMY KIMBERLEY

Sisters Katelyn and Karlie Kelly were both nominated for Chase Youth Awards in separate years. Katelyn, 14, was honored last year for leadership and Karlie was recently given an award for courage.

GRAB THE ATTENTION OF KIDS AND FAMILIES! The Wave is bigger and better than ever, and your business or organization can be a part of it by becoming a Wave partner.

What is The Wave? It’s what you are holding in your hands — a special pullout section geared toward elementary-age kids and their families in the Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake communities. The Wave runs monthly in The Splash and The Current — that’s 18,000 copies!

Wave partnership packages include advertising and logo recognition in every issue. For more, email advertise@valleycurrent.com or call 509-242-7752.

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 23

COMMUNITY

Side by Side Counseling Services

Education Briefs CV honors meritorious award recipients The Central Valley School Board recently honored recipients of the 2015 Meritorious Service Awards.

According to a press release, 61 individuals, 18 teams and 43 community members were nominated for district-wide awards this year by colleagues, parents and students. Recipients were selected by two Board members and Superintendent Ben Small.

Since 1985 the annual awards have honored employees, teams, community members and organizations who have contributed to student achievement in Central Valley schools. For more, visit www.cvsd.org.

Spokane Valley Location Traditional and Art Therapy Medicare Provider Private Insurance Accepted

509-808-2653

Changing Lives Together ... Side by Side SUBMITTED PHOTO

Central Valley 2015 Meritorious Service Award recipients included Melissa Scott, McDonald Elementary counselor, certificated employee; Marty Dickinson and Kim Pearman-Gillman, bond and levy campaign co-chairs, community member/organization; Robin Barnhart, Central Valley High School teacher, certificated employee; Scott Kingsford, Rick Sheppard and Jim Durning on behalf of OpenEye, district-wide mentors, community member/organization; Cindy Noll, Opportunity Elementary secretary, classified employee; Jay Rowell and Rick Doehle (not pictured), human resources and maintenance admin, team.

Colleges honor local students The following Valley area students were recently recognized by colleges for their academic performance or meeting graduation requirements. Information was provided via press releases submitted from schools or parents.

Carroll College (Helena, Mont.)

Fall 2014 Dean’s List, 3.5+ GPA

Liberty Lake: Jaclyn Urbanec Otis Orchards: Caitlin Walter Spokane Valley: Katie Estey, Courtney Sherick, Conor Smith, Taylor Smith, Carissa Yedica Veradale: Jessica Baker

Eastern Washington University Fall 2014 Graduates

Greenacres: Jaycob Walter Enzler, Bachelor of Science in Chemistry; Ryan William Sauther, Bachelor of Science in Biology Liberty Lake: Alyssa Sarah Hemmer, Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Business Management; Emily Erin Hisel, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, cum laude; Brooklyn Lorene Leistiko, Bachelor of Science in Psychology; and Breanne Jackee Stachofsky, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, summa cum laude Newman Lake: Jon David Barter, Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, cum laude; Nicholas Dean Faso, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, magna cum laude Otis Orchards: Robin M Sandall, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, magna cum laude Spokane Valley: Ashley Marie Burns, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, magna cum laude; Jessica LynChester, Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Business Management; Shane ChristopherFlesher, Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice;

Oksana Garbuz, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Cassandra Giudice, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Erin Rose Hersch, Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, cum laude; Mandy Sue Mikelson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Ryelle Maurine Miles, Bachelor of Science in Psychology, magna cum laude; Heather May Pearson, Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences; Nathan Gregory Pindras, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering; Stephen PatrickWheir, Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Valleyford: Lauryn Altmeyer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, cum laude

Eastern Washington University Fall 2014 Honor Roll, 3.5+ GPA

Greenacres: McKenzie Ann Marie Britain, Cassandra J Enzler, Hailey Elizabeth Hawkins, Mathew Dean Merrick, Samantha Jo Pendleton Liberty Lake: Sophie Marisa Ascas, Hanna Christine Bledsoe, Delaney Nora Dorsey, Emily Erin Hisel, Brooklyn Lorene Leistiko, Malia Iwalani Listella, Shawna Richardson McDonald, James Edward Pappas, Homa Shaarbaf, Breanne Jackee Stachofsky, Connor James Stephenson, Spencer Kyle Stephenson, Jacob Michael Vanlandingham Newman Lake: Jon David Barter, Jordan Elizabeth Christensen, Nicholas Christopher Coleck, Joseph David Copeland, Deanna L Ervin, Nicholas Dean Faso, Jennifer Rae Kersh Otis Orchards: Alicia F Aldendorf, Sean Lanphere Lanphere, Rebecca Renae Lonam, Robin M Sandall, Amanda May Skogen, Chad Thomas Steenvoorden, Brittany Marie Totland Rockford: Mary Christina Hodl Spokane Valley: Shana Christine Adkins, Martin Leo Ahmann, Kimberly Dawn Arambul, Dawn Marie Babb, Kamila Kamila Begzhanova Begzhanova, Tiana Chante Elizabeth Bennett, Olivia Lisa Bratcher, Ashley Marie Burns, Matthew Allen Cato, Sabrita A Cohen, Christopher Bradley Covillo, Katelyn Marie Dowling, Jennifer Lee Downard, Mollie Renae Erickson, Jade Lorene Faraca, Oksana Garbuz, Shannon Marie Gaston, Ruth Golubenko, Madison Smith Goodwin, Hailee Noelle Gordon, Jonathan Ryan Helm, Zoey Maureen Henson, Erin Rose Hersch, Patricia Marie

Howard, Gurpreet Kaur, Kieran James Kennerson, Angela Marie Livingston, Amanda Michelle McGillicuddy, Katarina Jeanne Meinzinger, Ryelle Maurine Miles, Mackenzie Marie Monaghan, Kendra Alexis Morscheck, Katelyn Renee Nemitz, Nathan Gregory Pindras, Jennifer A Popp, Christine Ashley Quinlivan, Kaitlyn Page Richardson, Katie Ann Salmon, Amanda Renea Sanders, Natasha Saric, Andrew Reed Simock, Katherine Rose Stewart-White, Brandon Allen Stover, Robyn Marie Supnet, Katy Ann Tveit, Jordan Elizabeth Vuong, Dillon James Waybright, Rebecca M White, Michael Neldon Zarecor Valleyford: Lauryn Altmeyer, Jackie Kay Campbell, Ethan Daniel Coffey Veradale: Austin Montgomery Brekke, Suzanne Renee Burk, Charlotte S Schmitz

Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

WorShip Service 10:45 a.m.

23304 E. Wellesley, Otis Orchards, WA

509-926-9552

Emmanuel College (Boston, Mass.)

Fall 2014 Dean’s List, 3.5+ GPA Spokane Valley: Sydney Everhart

Kansas Wesleyan University (Salina, Kansas) Graduate

Ashley Moon of Spokane Valley, bachelor of arts in graphic design

Seattle Pacific University 2014 Autumn Quarter Dean’s List, 3.5+ GPA

Otis Orchards: Sarah Suzanne Fridley Liberty Lake: Nicholas Arnold Potter Spokane Valley: Emily Kaye Barkley, Emily Joy Winter

Troy University (Troy, Ala.) Provost’s List, 3.65+ GPA Liberty Lake: Megan Hickman

Whitworth University Graduate

Emily Hisel of Liberty Lake, bachelor of science in nursing, cum laude

Serving the greater Spokane Valley since 1985 Residential and Office Cleaning Licensed and Insured Hourly Rates

The Current

24 • APRIL 2015 Brought to you by

About and for Valley seniors

The Senior Empowerment Resource Fair will feature more than 40 vendors this year inside CenterPlace Regional Event Center’s Great Room. The fifth annual event has grown from just 15 vendors its first year. The 2014 edition is pictured at left.

Event connects seniors to local resources

By Valerie Putnam

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Information is power. But for the aging population in our community, means of finding information can be elusive.

“People don’t know where to turn,” City of Spokane Valley Senior Center Specialist Karen Clark-Parson said. “They just don’t know. Until you really need it, you don’t search it out.”

As a way of helping seniors uncover the information they need about important community services, the City of Spokane Valley’s Senior Center is hosting its fifth annual Senior Empowerment Resource

SUDOKU

Fair. The free event happens from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 10 at the Centerplace Regional Event Center, 2426 North Discovery Place.

"There are so many resources and information out there," said Clark-Parson, who is organizing the event. "We’re hoping to get the word out and bring things to the forefront.”

Vendor space is free for those who want to provide seniors with information about their products or services.

“A couple came in that were 75 years old, and they brought in their 95-year-old mom to help find services for her,” said ClarkParson, relating a story from a previous fair. “They didn’t need them yet but mom did. Usually, it’s someone younger bringing in someone their age.”

During the fair, 44 vendors will provide information about services and products offered to seniors in the community.

Clark-Parson said three different branches of Spokane Neighborhood Action Program (SNAP) — the Long Term Care Ombudsman, Keeping Green and Home Improvement programs — plan to attend for the first time this year.

“I’m very excited about that,” Clark-Parsons said. “That is going to be very helpful.”

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IF YOU GO ...

Senior Empowerment Resource Fair 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 10 CenterPlace Regional Event Center Great Room, 2426 N. Discovery Place.

Free to attend, free for vendors For more: Contact Karen Clark-Parson at 926-1937 or kparson@spokanevalley.org

Clark-Parson estimates 30 percent of this year’s vendors will be first-time participants.

“What we try to do is change things up a bit,” Clark-Parson said. “We give others an opportunity to come.”

Blake Ericksen, office manager of Care Patrol, is a newcomer to the event. Care Patrol offers seniors and their families help with locating a place to live such as a nursing home, memory care, assisted or independent living facility. The service is free to the families.

“It’s a good opportunity for us to get familiar with the Valley and be involved in the Senior Center,” Ericksen said.

Other new and returning vendors include Costco, Rockwood Health, Spokane Transit and Paratransit, Horizon Hospice,

See RESOURCES, page 25

Spotlighting timely needs our community can meet together To our friends and neighbors in the greater Spokane Valley: Let’s be Partners.

Two years ago, Spokane Valley Partners was granted $225,000 from the Washington State Legislature to fund three facility improvements critical to the organization’s ongoing work in our community: 1. Replacing the central roof, 2. Replacing the heating system boiler, and 3. Upgrading the demonstration kitchen and adjoining classroom.

To access the money, the organization needs to match it with $88,000 in private funds.

So far, $23,000 has been raised, leaving $55,000 still required to unlock the organization’s ability to meet these basic needs.

88K

$

23K

$

Fellow local businesses and residents, please help us bridge this gap before another season passes with this grant untapped.

Send your gifts marked “capital campaign” (in the check memo line or on the online donation comment box at svpart.org/support) to Spokane Valley Partners.

Sincerely,

The Arger Family Investing in Spokane Valley since 1979 Local owners of Evergreen Fountains, sponsor of The Fountain senior spread in The Splash and The Current

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 25

COMMUNITY

Trivia Test 6. HISTORY: When was Charles Lindbergh named Time magazine’s “Man of the Year”?

7. ENTERTAINMENT: Which 20th-century actress was dubbed “The Legs”?

8. GAMES: In cricket, how many players are on each side?

9. LITERATURE: Who wrote the 19th-century novel “Little Dorrit”?

10. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What is antimony?

— 2015 King Features Syndicate Inc.

RESOURCES

Clark-Parson held the first Empowerment Exposition in 2010 featuring only 15 vendors.

"It has grown," Clark-Parson said. “We’re just excited to get the word out there.”

She got the idea to have the event based on phone calls asking for information received at the front desk of the Centerplace Senior Center. She also said organizations were attempting to conduct seminars at the center, but the events were poorly attended.

"We find we are the first line of answering questions," Clark-Parson said. "We had so many questions we decided to do a resource fair."

Continued from page 24

Walgreens and Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington. Several assisted living facilities and in-home care organizations will also be represented.

The Senior Center will provide complimentary coffee and cookies. Participants can purchase lunch through Valley Meals on Wheels or bring their own sack lunch. Meals on Wheels will serve lunch from 11:30 to 12:45 in the dining room adjacent to the Great Room, where the Expo is being held. Cost for lunch is a recommended donation of $3.50.

SCRAMBLERS solution: 1) Convey, 2) Delight, 3) Super, 4) Dream. Today’s Word: Elevator

1. MONARCHIES: Who is the longest reigning monarch of Britain?

2. PRESIDENTS: Name the only U.S. president who never lived in the White House?

3. MYTHOLOGY: Which one of the Greek Muses was associated history?

4. GEOGRAPHY: What is the name of the strait that separates Sicily from the Italian mainland?

5. LANGUAGE: Who coined the word “utopia”?

WHERE’S THE CROSSWORD? By request, The

Fountain is introducing other features this month to show additional options beyond the usual crossword puzzle and trivia test. Email editor@ valleycurrent.com to share your feedback on what puzzle you would like to see on the pages of The Fountain this year.

Answers to Trivia Test 1. Queen Victoria, 63 years. Queen Elizabeth II would surpass her on Sept. 9, 2015. 2. George Washington 3. Clio 4. Messina 5. Thomas More 6. 1927 7. Betty Grable 8. 11 9. Charles Dickens 10. A metal element

Where Wellness Is A Way Of Life • Independent Living • Light Assisted Living • Walking Trail • Wellness & Fitness Center • Gourmet Chef • Cottage Homes • Swimming Pool & Spa • Assisted Living • Bistro

Daily Tours Locally Owned and Operated by the Arger Family

•

Move-in Specials

• 509-922-3100 • 1201 N Evergreen Road, Spokane Valley • www.evergreenfountains.com

LOCAL LENS

26 • APRIL 2015

Robotics feats recognized

The Current

Bringing music to the meeting

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Ness Elementary students performed at a recent West Valley School Board appreciation meeting. The orchestra, under the direction of Lori Caccavo, is comprised of third grade students who give up recess to practice for performances.

‘All you need is a book’ The Cat in the Hat visited the Central Valley Kindergarten Center during National Read Across America week, taking time to pose with Mrs. Milliken’s classroom. The magical cat delivered books to each kindergarten student, courtesy of Spokane Valley Kiwanis and the Children’s Book Bank.

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The West Valley High School robotics team finished second at the recent Pacific NW First Robotics competition. In addition, Brad Liberg received the Washington State First Robotics Volunteer of the Year award at the competition held at West Valley High School.

CURRENT PHOTO BY TAMMY KIMBERLEY

Freeman PTSG awarded grant

Shutterbug Snapshots Michael Hassett recently photographed a great blue heron and a western bluebird near Newman Lake.

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Northwest Farm Credit Services recently awarded the Freeman Parent, Teacher, Student Group a $1,000 Northwest FCS/CoBank Rural Community Grant Award. The grant will be used for a new play structure for younger students. Freeman PTSG President Gretchen Paukert said the generous contribution will have a lasting impact on students in the Freeman community adding, “Thank you Northwest Farm Credit Services for supporting rural schools. You are truly community champions!”

Dave Noble shared this photo of pixie cup lichen taken March 13 on Antoine Peak.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 27

COMMUNITY/BUSINESS

Community Briefs SV Rotary accepting grant applications The Valley Rotary Charitable Association is offering funds to organizations that work for senior citizens in the Spokane Valley area. Examples of previous grant recipients include Spokane Valley Partners and Spokane Valley Meals on Wheels.

The grants are funded through a bequest from Henry “Hank” Grinalds, a longtime member of the Rotary Club of Spokane Valley, who directed in his will that funds be targeted to assist the elderly in the Valley area.

To request a grant application or for more information, write to Valley Rotary Charitable Association, P.O. Box 14192, Spokane Valley, WA 99214.

FOPP accepting scholarship applications Friends of Pavillion Park will be awarding three $750 scholarships and the $1,000 Elmer Schneidmiller Community Leadership Award to students seeking post-high school education in the 2015-2016 school year. Scholarship application materials are due by May 15.

To be eligible, students must be a resident or have a parent, guardian or grandparent who is a resident of the Liberty Lake community. For the $750 scholar-

Biz Notes ships, preference will be given to students who have demonstrated Pavillion Parkrelated community service and are pursuing degrees or certification in music, drama, visual arts, recreation, physical education, sports administration, horticulture or natural resource studies. The Elmer Schneidmiller award is selected by the Schneidmiller family and is given to an individual who has demonstrated exemplary leadership and service to the Liberty Lake community.

Scholarships are paid directly to the institution, and former recipients are not eligible. For scholarship forms, go to www.pavillionpark.org/application.html or email David Himebaugh at davidh@ pavillionpark.org.

Indians announce summer internship program The Spokane Indians are currently accepting applications for the 2015 summer internship program.

Prospective candidates with junior, senior of post-grad college experience must be available to work all 38 Spokane Indians home games.

Positions include marketing and promotions, ticket office, public relations and broadcasting. For more information, go to www.spokaneindians.com.

Donation lights up choir’s future

Sweeto Burrito coming to Valley Sweeto Burrito is coming soon to Spokane Valley with a location at 15727 E. Broadway Ave. From a single food truck at the Sturgis Harley Davison Rally in 2011, Sweeto Burrito has grown into a chain of burrito/taco restaurants. The Valley location will be the first in Washington.

Sweeto Burrito plans to open for business on May 25 and host a grand opening on June 1. For more, visit www.sweetoburrito.com.

SV Fire Department introduces new community affairs officer The Spokane Valley Fire Department recently announced the hire of Melanie Rose as community affairs officer. This position directs the community affairs of SVFD, which includes public information, governmental affairs, public relations, media services and some public education.

Rose came to SVFD from the Central Valley School District, where she had served ROSE as the Director of Communications for the past 10 years. Her other professional experience includes serving as the public information officer for Spokane Regional Health District as well as marketing manager for the Division of Educational Outreach at Eastern Washington University.

For more, visit spokanevalleyfire.com.

Brand It brings on new staff

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Sunrise Elementary instructor Ken Wendt and the Solar Energy Choir was recently presented with a $2,500 check by Cammie and Greg Utchet of Utecht Farms on behalf of America’s Farmers Grow Communities. Sponsored by the Monsanto Fund, the donation will enable the choir to purchase portable stage lighting to enhance their performances.

Current Travels Katherine Morgan, chief executive officer of the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, took The Current along when she visited St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.

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Brand It Advertising, 122 N. Raymond Road, recently had several new employees come on staff. Jill Strom joined the company as marketing assistant and serves in production management and Laurie Olson was hired as an accounting manager.

Also new to Brand It's creative team are graphic designers Steve Miller and Todd

Zyph. Miller has been working as a designer for the past 18 years in North Carolina, and Zyph has 10 years’ experience working as a production artist, freelance designer and most recently art director.

For more, visit branditadvertising.net.

STCU promotes Myhre STCU employee Lindsey Myhre was recently promoted to vice president of finance. She has worked for STCU since 2000, most recently as director of accounting and finance, a press release said.

Myhre holds a degree in business administration from Western Washington University and is currently seeking her master’s degree from Western Governor’s MYHRE University. For more, visit www.stcu.org.

PrimeSource CU expands into Valley PrimeSource Credit Union recently announced plans to open a Spokane Valley location this summer at the corner of East Sprague and South Dishman Mica Road.

PrimeSource Valley plans include a full service location at 9208 E. Sprague Ave. with a two-lane drive up as well as a drivethrough night deposit and ATM. The new PrimeSource branch will provide access for new and existing members, as well as credit union shared branching.

Numerica promotes Hochheimer Manuel Hochheimer was recently promoted to Assistant Vice President of Business Development at Numerica Credit Union. With Numerica since 2012, Hochheimer has 15 years of experience in the financial industry. Prior to his promotion, he was director of corporate business development.

See BIZ NOTES, page 38

COVER FEATURE

16 special orders tied to the greater Valley face off in The Current’s fourth annual food bracket

TASTE BUDDIES

28 • APRIL 2015

Casual Friday Donuts

ABOUT THIS BRACKET The NCAA has a Sweet 16. For our fourth annual food bracket, The Current put together a field that is more like a Sweet, Sandwichy, Saucy and Scrumptious 16. On this spread are 16 greater Spokane Valley-connected food orders divided into four “regions”: donuts, sandwiches, wings and pizza. On Friday, March 20, a team of gallant Current contributors spent a day sampling all of these items while watching NCAA Tournament basketball games. The food advanced through the bracket throughout the day until a champion was crowned.

The overwhelming sentiment: People should support our local eateries.

This food was delicious, and winners were only advanced following passionate debate.

Two tons of tourney A calorie-by-calorie account of an epic eating day

A dozen donuts, highlighted by key contributions from glazed and cronuts, a croissant-donut pastry.

3402 N. Division St., Spokane*

A dozen donuts, highlighted by key contributions from old-fashioned glazed and maple bars.

9219 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley

Sweet Tooth Bakery & Espresso A dozen donuts, highlighted by key contributions from glazed (including a raspberry-filled spin-off) and maple bars.

Scrumdiddilyumptious Donuts

A dozen donuts, highlighted by key contributions from glazed and cream-filled maple.

When you can’t go wrong, you go with what you know.

Mike’s advances by being the standard-bearer in Valley donuts for as long as any of us can remember.

Sweet Tooth Bakery & Espresso In the first surprise of the tourney, a virtual unknown upsets a beloved favorite.

Everyone already loved (and continues to crave) Scrumdiddilyumptious, but only one taster had ever experienced Sweet Tooth before this contest.

A sneaky win.

“The Western”

River City Pizza, 4707 N. Harvard Road, Otis Orchards

Barbecue sauce, bacon, onions, beef, extra cheese, salt and pepper (note: “The Western” came in as the defending champion, winning The Current’s 2014 bracket, which featured all pizzas)

“Barn Yard” Canadian bacon, pepperoni, sausage, bell peppers, onions, olives and mushrooms (note: owner Sheila McCormick said this particular pie is FarmHouse’s best seller)

“Meat Madness”

By Chad Kimberley CURRENT COLUMN

See CALORIE, page 31

Mike’s Old Fashioned Donuts

1201 N. Barker Road, Spokane Valley

FarmHouse Pizza, 1 S. First St., Rockford

(-700).

The key on a day like this is to start with a negative calorie count. I crawl out of bed way earlier than preferred to climb on a treadmill and bang out some mileage before the day of gluttony commences.

This might be the only healthy thing I do all day.

Donut Region

*Editor’s Note: This is the only location visited outside of The Current’s circulation area, but it is owned by Joe and Amber Owens of Spokane Valley. The Owenses also own Celebrations Bakery.

Mike’s Old Fashioned Donuts

24921 E. Trent Ave., Newman Lake

The Current

Pizza Rita, 201 N. Pines Road, Spokane Valley

Pizza Pipeline, 415 N. Sullivan Road, Spokane Valley

Pepperoni, sausage, beef, ham, bacon (note: after being absent in last year’s competition, an all-meat pizza was considered a must-have entry for 2015)

“Fiery Fingers Alfredo Combo” “Fiery Fingers” chicken, red and green bell peppers, white and green onions, alfredo sauce (note: pizza was selected for both variety and because Pipeline’s menu said it was “back by popular demand”)

“Barn Yard” Shocker! Last year’s defending champion goes out in the first round as panel splits on whether to love it or leave it. This year, barbecue sauce was apparently too niche, and the steady admiration for FarmHouse’s “nailed-it!” version of a supreme pie squeaked to the upset.

“Meat Madness” Make this the second time in this bracket that “known” knocks off “niche.” This time, it’s not even that close, as Pizza Rita even wins over those judges who typically like veggies on their pie. It’s early, but this order is clearly a standout.

Pizza Region

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 29

Sandwich Region THE WINNER: WINGS WITH THAI PEANUT SAUCE

This matchup went into overtime and was still decided on a buzzer beater.

When the vote was tallied, the tasters all looked at each other like, “Did that really just happen?”

Newman Lake, your secret is out.

“Sundowner”

Sweet Tooth Bakery A 3-2 vote saw sweet beat meat. The panel categorized this as yet another upset in a bracket stuffed with surprises, particularly as Pizza Rita waltzed through its own tough peer group.

But the donut region, top to bottom, was just so incredibly strong. Sweet Tooth takes the toughness and momentum gained from topping its standout region all the way to the final.

Normally (as in the pizza bracket), a niche product fails to garner broad acclaim, but the nod went to Mr. November for bringing out comments like, “I hate cranberries, but I love them on that sandwich.” In an extremely tight vote, the edge went to High Nooner for building a novelty with broad appeal.

“Meat Madness” Two very different styles of pizza both earn accolades, but suddenly the judges are mad about the meat.

It’s a 4-1 vote, and while this is the first point scored against it, Pizza Rita suddenly seems to have a recipe that could go the distance!

This one just came down to the nature of this particular competition. Five guys were determining what to eat during the hyped-up honorary holiday men refer to as “Madness.” Through that lens, the wings just seemed to be the right fit. There was no shortage of sandwich love, but the wings soared into the championship game on this day.

“California Sunshine Club”

“California Sunshine Club”

Smacky’s was the healthiest tasting item of food we sampled all day. The California club — featuring a well-known game-grub trump card called “bacon” — was not. Readers, please understand this article is certainly not about wise, everyday eating choices. Split decision favors Casey’s Place.

Turkey, ham, bacon, cheddar, provolone, avocado, tomato, lettuce on toasted French roll

“Sundowner” Remember how Willie Wonka was working on the chewing gum that takes tasters through an entire meal, course by course? The Sundowner is like that, Thanksgiving style. Turns out, the room was nostalgic for the fourth Thursday in November. Shamus’s received its raves, but it wasn’t quite enough.

Casey’s Place, 13817 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley

“Sundowner” Turkey breast, mayo, herb stuffing, lettuce, cranberries on 8-inch sub roll High Nooner, 523 N. Pines Road, Spokane Valley

“The Rancher” Turkey, hickory-smoked bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, Shamus’s own ranch sauce on sourdough bread Shamus’s Sandwich Shoppe, 1014 N. Pines Road, Spokane Valley

Wings with Teriyaki Sauce

WINGS WITH THAI PEANUT SAUCE

Wings with Thai Peanut Sauce

Turkey, Swiss cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomato, roasted garlic mayo on whole wheat bread Smacky’s on Broadway, 6415 E. Broadway Ave., Spokane Valley

No March Madness game is allowed to end in a tie, but there is no rule to forbid ending in a “Thai.” That’s how our five extremely full and satisfied judges saw this tilt when it was finally time to name the champion and let down the confetti. While there was no dud in the entire tournament, the panel felt the donut and wings regions stood out. By a 4-1 vote, however, those Thai Peanut wings flew off into the night as our 2015 champ. Chickens aren’t supposed to be able to fly like that but, as we said, these were especially meaty. We suspect to find them migrating back onto our plate — and perhaps into future food brackets Sweet — for as many years as we can see Tooth on the horizon.

Bakery

“Smacky’s Favorite”

Wings with Thai Peanut Sauce The Thai Peanut wings took top bidding by bringing the meat and surprising with the sauce.

Current food bracket founders Josh and Chad cast the dissenting votes in the 3-2 nailbiter, revealing that the creation had officially become the master. But even Josh and Chad had to tip a cap to this strong entrant that emerged from what was perhaps the strongest of the four regions.

BREAKING DOWN THE FIELD Learn more about all the outstanding entrants, including additional judge’s feedback organized by region, page 30

Wings with Sweet Chili Sauce It was going to take a major effort to knock off this contest’s standard-bearer.

More of that delicious teriyaki sauce would have helped, but in the end the sweet chili pulled away.

Wings with Thai Peanut Sauce The two sauciest wings, hands down, tangled in this early round matchup, but the Thai Peanut carried the day with a tasty kick and lots and lots of meat.

Wings Region

This sauce is not on the menu, but a little birdy tipped us off that this would make a wise “special request.” No regrets here.

Black Diamond, 9614 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley

Wings with Sweet Chili Sauce This order was the champion of The Current’s first and second annual food brackets (then known as the “appetizer bracket”) and came into the tournament as the odds-on favorite.

The Ref, 14208 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley

Wings with Thai Peanut Sauce When friends caught wind of our plans, both Flamin’ Joe’s in general and the Thai Peanut Sauce in particular were loud-and-clear recommendations.

Flamin’ Joe’s, 11618 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley

Wings with Barbecue Sauce Longhorn’s famous barbecue sauce generously slathered (maybe even poured) on tasty chicken wings.

Someone pass the moist towelettes.

Longhorn Barbecue, 2315 N. Argonne Road, Spokane Valley

The Current

30 • APRIL 2015

COVER FEATURE

FOOD FEEDBACK

Region-by-region reflections on a gluttonous bracket Compiled by Josh Johnson

quality. For some reason, accusations that the crust and cheese weren’t up to par this year caused it to meet a first-round demise.

To the only four-year veterans of The Current’s food bracket, this was unfortunate.

CURRENT STAFF WRITER

THE DONUT REGION

Four for the road

Overall impression This region was stacked, even moreso than we suspected at the outset. Many who have been around the Valley for years know that both Mike’s and Scrumdiddilyumptious have been worthy standard-bearers.

The emergence of Sweet Tooth Bakery in this competition further underscores the point that local lovers of the donut have chosen their hometown well. This was the region where all agreed we didn’t want anyone to “lose.”

Overheard “Mike’s has a nostalgia for me. They taste like the donuts I would get when I was a kid with my grandpa.” — Matt Goldbloom

A rebuttal Those most loyal to Mike’s pointed out that, at least on this day, the regular glazed variety wasn’t available until 9 a.m. — well after our pick up time. The old-fashioned glazed stood in for what was our only true like-for-like comparison between the four locations, and a couple people didn’t prefer the “old-fashioned” style. Would a more apples-to-apples comparison of glazed varieties have pushed Mike’s past Sweet Tooth and into the Final Four? We’ll never know … at least not this year.

Four for the road 1. Ryan Lingbloom, the self-proclaimed donut-specialist on our panel, claims he is well-known in the Scrumdiddilyumptious drive-through to the point he is always greeted with an update on how many cream-filled maples are in stock. Many judges spoke highly of this establishment’s sweet, whippier version of maple.

2. Part of selecting the perfect donut is the eye test, better explained as “what a 5-yearold with her nose pressed against the glass would be most wowed by.” In this category, Casual Friday Donuts was a clear standout.

Want to watch your kids ascend to mental nirvana before even taking their first bite?

Bring them to Casual Friday. One of our panelists, Jay Rivera, suggests the chocolate Oreo donut as a pleasing selection for both the eye and the palette.

3. Perhaps no donut shop had as much universal love before the competition even began than Mike’s, a place that has been doing it right for years and is continuing the

CURRENT PHOTO BY MATT GOLDBLOOM

The Current’s panel agreed if there was a special award for “Best Presentation,” it would go to Casual Friday Donuts. tradition in its new location at the Argonne Hico Village. Most of The Current’s judging panel also happen to be fathers, and we shared stories of how Mike himself will often bring dough to the table for our kids to play with — another among many classy touches at Mike’s.

4. When Current panelist Chad Kimberley walked into Sweet Tooth Bakery for the first time to order a dozen for our competition, he asked owner Gary Wheeler which donuts were his standouts. “I’ve been doing this for 40 years,” Wheeler replied. “They’re all good.” As it turns out, the man was right.

THE PIZZA REGION Overall impression As we noted in our 2014 bracket, which was focused solely on pizza, this is a possible growth area for the Greater Spokane

Valley. When we asked around for pizza recommendations, most of them came from outside of The Current’s circulation area. So we returned to some of our favorite places from a year ago, and while we may not have been as blown away with the top-to-bottom quality of this region compared to the other three, there are still plenty of quality options for Valley pizza.

Overheard “Even after all of this food, I’m still going back for another piece of the Pizza Rita pizza.” — Matt Goldbloom, as the 12-hour eating day was nearing its close “Me, too.” — Jay Rivera

A rebuttal Josh Johnson and Chad Kimberley will be going back to River City Pizza for another “Western,” even if others who helped carry it to the championship a year ago have since bailed off the bandwagon. The incredible flavor of this barbecue pizza is its standout

1. Sarah Burk, The Current’s graphics editor, was in and out through the day adding her comments, along with several other female members of the extended newspaper family. She shared a great idea for those of us who bemoan that a trip to FarmHouse in Rockford isn’t necessarily on the way for a Spokane Valley-based pizza enthusiast.

“I can definitely see us checking out Hurd Mercantile some Saturday and then picking up a FarmHouse Pizza on the way home,” she said, though she thought her first order might be a return to the FarmHouse’s namesake pizza (a taco variety) that the judges raved about last year.

2. While Pizza Pipeline is a fixture of the playlist for several of the judges’ families, it suffered this year when most agreed we ordered the wrong thing. Josh thought the flavor to be surprisingly muted, to which Trevor Farris agreed there should be more kick from something with “fiery” in the name. But then, Trevor might have come in with a bit of a bias: “White sauce on pizza is just not American,” he said.

3. River City Pizza was the sole entrant this year where dining in would have been just as good as bringing it home, as their spacious restaurant is adorned by several screens tuned to sports. In that category, two of last year’s entrants who space didn’t allow us to return to this year are also good options: Brother’s Office Pizzeria on 32nd and Savageland on Dishman.

4. How did Pizza Rita separate itself so clearly from its peer group this year? On first glance, you would think the fact it was called “Meat Madness” would provide a clue. Not so, agreed the panelists. Nearly everyone, including the ladies who sampled it, agreed it had the best crust. Another comment, that its sauce-to-toppings ratio was strong, was also revealing. Here was a meat lovers that didn’t taste like a mouthful of meat, but struck the right balance of crustto-sauce-to-toppings. Kudos!

THE SANDWICH REGION Overall impression This was the hardest bracket to limit to just four entrants, as the Valley is blessed

See FEEDBACK, page 32

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 31

COVER FEATURE

CALORIE Continued from page 28

I love that this year we have a starting five of food connoisseurs to enjoy this day with. This is our fourth year, and we have grown from two in the first year to five on this day as we added Trevor into the mix. Josh, Jay, Matt and I are the returning veterans. This year, we even have a sixth man, Ryan, for the morning donut section of our bracket.

I consider myself a point guard at heart, so I will attempt to direct some traffic through the kitchen, assist all players who need to launch any projectiles into the porcelain hoop in the bathroom and lead a stomach stretch session or two between games.

As I head out the door for, ironically enough, “Donuts and Dads” at my daughter’s school, I am committed to tracking two things throughout the day: 1. Glasses of water drank from my official 12-ounce Iowa Hawkeyes glass (I figure if the competitive eaters use water to wash it all down quickly, it must work), and 2. All calories consumed and burned today.

Round 1: Donuts Everyone else goes for milk or coffee to enjoy the first round of donuts, but I reach for a “lowcalorie” drink like a Raspberry Rockstar so I can more thoroughly enjoy the breakfast of champions displayed on the table in front of us. The donuts were set up similar to a cheese tasting display where tons of donuts were divided out into smaller pieces.

The decision is made quickly to affirm that the greater Spokane Valley area does a GREAT job on donuts. They are all good. We went for a basic glazed donut (or equivalent) from each shop along with tons of other varieties to partake. I loved some of the novelty donuts, such as the peanut butter and jelly from Scrumdiddilyumptious and the cronut from Casual Friday.

Thankfully, we have Ryan to weigh in for the morning session, a self-described donut expert. He is, in his own words, a secondgeneration donut eater as his father was a cop, so his opinion seems to have more weight. And for the record to our faithful officers in the Spokane Valley area, if you are offended by his comment

CURRENT PHOTOS BY TAMMY KIMBERLEY

The “judges” in this year’s food bracket took a few breaks from watching games and eating food to play some driveway dunk hoop. Trevor Farris, Matt Goldbloom, Jay Rivera, Ryan Lingbloom, Chad Kimberley and Josh Johnson (left to right in the photo above) were in charge of picking winners in this year’s bracket, though Lingbloom was brought in as a donut specialist only, as his schedule didn’t allow for him to devote the whole day.

he drives a white Acura.

I find myself returning to the donut table time and again to grab another quarter of a piece of donut. Surprisingly enough, if you eat enough quarters it ends up being a lot of full donuts. (Thank you, elementary math lessons, for helping me out on this one.) Three and a half full donuts later, I find myself needing to go shoot some baskets or go on another run.

Calories Consumed: 1,400 (Rockstar Included) Glasses of Water: 0 We vote to go for some 3-on-3 basketball on the 7-foot driveway hoop during the early session halftime break. For some ridiculous reason, we split the teams as bald guys vs. tall guys. I am placed on the bald team despite my insistence I have pursued the shaved look. Unfortunately, the tall guys have Trevor, who is pushing a solid 6-foot-5; we had Ryan, who is pushing a slightly smaller 5-4. This battle is similar to a 15-2 bracket matchup. The tall guys win, but the important thing is we burn 200 calories.

The joy of the tourney and this day-long eating adventure is hang-

ing out with the fellas. After our game, we all head out to the backyard to shoot the breeze. I hadn’t seen Matt in several months, so it was great to catch up, and the new guys get a chance to know the veterans. This is why I love sports — it does bring people together. Of course, that togetherness will exit stage left if my beloved Iowa gets a matchup with Gonzaga in the second round.

After the embarrassing round one loss, the bald ones insist on another game. They say soccer is the beautiful game, but there is nothing like our 5-4 scoring guard throwing down a dunk for the winning basket, literally pulling the water-filled base of the basketball hoop nearly to the ground while giving out a Braveheart-style bellow. That is at least another 100 calories burned. The basketball session has been good to my tallies.

Glasses of Water: 3 Calories Burned: 300

Round 2: Sandwiches My students make fun of me at school anytime they see the sandwiches I bring in for lunch. They say they are boring. My typical

sandwich consists of bread, ham, turkey and mayo and warmed up for 20 seconds in the microwave.

They say I should get pickles, tomatoes and lettuce to dress up my sandwich. Well, class … on this day I experience variety.

These sandwiches were dressed up like nothing else: bacon, avocado, cranberries, cheeses and dressing — like Thanksgiving dressing.

As Trevor so perfectly mentioned, it is like a Thanksgiving meal for lunch. After chowing down on all four of them, I find that Thanksgiving during March Madness works pretty well for me, though admittedly I did not get real excited for this bracket.

The thing is, at the end of the day it is a sandwich. Granted many of these tasted excellent, but it is March Madness and I feel like I should be eating food that has a higher deep fat fried content. Either that or sugar.

During this bracket, a few of our significant others joined us, and I believe they enjoyed the sandwich varieties more so than the heavily sugared donuts of the early bracket. So if you are having a mixed gender party, the sandwiches could be the key to having a balanced and enjoyable March Madness viewing party.

One of the problems we are having with this day so far is the lack of riveting basketball games.

We have had blowouts, favorites winning and nothing at all like the excitement of the previous day of the tournament, when all of us were working our normal jobs during five single-digit finishes, crazy 3-pointers made, coaches falling out of chairs in celebration and a crazy goaltending call.

My current hope is for Buffalo to

make a comeback in the second half against West Virginia. If not, at least buffalo wings are next up on the food bracket.

Calories Consumed: 700 Glasses of Water: 2

Round 3: Wings This is the classic bracket for March Madness. We have four flavors of wings (barbecue, teriyaki, sweet chili and Thai peanut) from four different locations, and again we are not disappointed. Full disclosure: I am a huge fan of the sweet chili wings and again voted them No. 1, yet they were upset by the Thai. Either way they were both awesome.

It was a thing of beauty to watch five men sit there with plates full of bones and faces full of sauce while watching basketball. We also had the joy of watching Jay eat his first actual “Thai” item in his life. This continues his streak of trying new things each year of this crazed eat-a-thon. In years past, we introduced him to onion rings and ranch sauce (yes, he had never had ranch sauce before last year).

Despite the fact this bracket was all about wings, Trevor ordered a special dish from Flamin’ Joe’s called “Captain Tenders” just for fun. Captain Tenders are chicken tenders battered in Cap’n Crunch and deep fried. You know those days when you are sitting around and trying to come up with something new to eat — this is the answer to those days. As much as I love wings, the next time I visit Joe’s I very well may grab a meal with the Captain.

My only great regret of this bracket is that we did not order

See CALORIE, page 32

32 • APRIL 2015

COVER FEATURE

FEEDBACK Continued from page 30

with a number of top-notch — and locally owned and operated — sandwich establishments. In the end, four rose to the surface after a variety of conversations and some social media input. Having turkey as a base ingredient happened at first by accident, but it was agreed in the end to be the safest idea. A sandwich like Shamus’s Famous, for instance, which features corned beef and sauerkraut, sounded incredible to some and disgusting to others.

Bottom line: Spokane Valley is rich with great sandwich options. We recommend not only the four mentioned in this article, but oh-so-many more.

Overheard “Bacon should be crispy. You don’t need that gummy-bear bacon. That’s not good for anyone. If bacon has the consistency of a Fruit Roll-up, pass!” — Trevor Farris, sharing his gratefulness that the bacon from Casey’s Place was indeed crispy

A rebuttal There were at least two stalwart defenders of Smacky’s on Broadway, but we will let Matt Goldbloom’s rant about the injustice of Smacky’s being passed over speak for itself: “Smacky’s sandwich should not have been an early exit in the Sandwich Region.

Smacky’s offered a delicious turkey sandwich that was stacked with deli meat that wasn’t overly salty and fresh veggies, including perfectly ripe avocado. The sandwich wasn’t saturated in condiments like some others were, and the wheat bread complimented the rest of the sandwich perfectly.

However, the matchup was not favorable

CALORIE Continued from page 31

more wings. I truly believe I could spend the majority of the day just eating wings along with the occasional carrot stick to cleanse the palate before hitting up another flavor of wing.

Calories Consumed: 1,100 Glasses of Water: 3

Iowa Game As a lifelong Iowa fan, I have become a bit wired to assume the worst in any and every situation. Let’s just say there has been a lot of disappointment. As we prepare the Iowa game, there has not been a lower seed upset all day. Iowa is the lower seed against Davidson. Of course, this means my Hawkeyes will be the first to lose to the lower seed.

Before the Iowa game, we get a quick 2-on-2 game into the books. Trevor and I are both from Iowa so we considered the game as Iowa vs. Davidson.

We lose, as Matt and Jay came back from

for Smacky’s, with a panel that included a mayonnaise virgin (Jay), a 24-year-old whose wheat bread taste buds have yet to fully develop (Trevor) and a panelist that considers a peanut-butter-and-jelly donut to be a sandwich (Chad). Smacky’s, you were my No. 1 by a landslide.”

Four for the road (bread theme) 1. Jay Rivera on Shamus’s sourdough: “The bread was by far the best-tasting bread. I would have been happy to eat a whole loaf.”

2. Matt Goldbloom on High Nooner’s Sundowner, which featured herb stuffing inside a tasty roll: “It’s like bread on bread, like stale seasoned bread on fresh bread.”

Despite the sound of that sentence, most of the panel raved about the unique stuffing.

3. Casey’s Place received raves for the balance of the sandwich, every ingredient being added at the proper proportion.

Four ladies from the extended Current family were able to join for the sandwich phase, and Casey’s came out on top when you isolated the female vote. Of note was that the two sandwiches on hoagie rolls advanced over the two on sliced bread.

Coincidence?

4. Smacky’s, as noted elsewhere, was the only sandwich on wheat bread and the consensus pick for tasting freshest and healthiest among the day’s offerings. Those who have been around the Valley for a while know that Smacky’s is one of the friendliest and highest rated restaurants of any kind in the area. The Current’s Dean Byrns must have looked hungry when he delivered papers to Smacky’s recently, as he received a free sample of a roast beef special when he dropped copies of the paper. Dean’s headline: “Delicious!” an early deficit while Jay uses his homecourt advantage to hit the game-winning three. This does not bode well.

Calories Burned: 100 Forget the stinking pick-up game! Iowa wins by over 30 points and sets up a potential date with Gonzaga on Sunday afternoon, assuming GU can take care of business in the evening game. This is my dream scenario! (Unfortunately, that dream became a nightmare two days later as GU pounded my Hawkeyes in the round of 32.)

Round 4: Pizza They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. A plate with four different colorful pieces of pizza ready to be consumed is a Picasso in my eyes. And yes, I realize that makes me sound like an uncultured individual, but I am OK with that designation.

The pizza was awesome. I think one of the keys we have learned over the four years of doing this eating bracket challenge is to pace ourselves throughout the day. The combination of drinking tons of water instead of my traditional gallons of soda and

THE WINGS REGION Overall impression We admit it: This was one everyone was looking forward to, and it didn’t disappoint.

Wings and a day watching basketball just fit together. It’s innate. As this annual competition has traditionally been about featuring local establishments as opposed to national chains, we did have some trouble finding places beyond The Ref and Flamin’ Joe’s that offered a wide variety of wing sauces — and that were open at 2:30 p.m. when we picked up our orders (there were a few sports bars that opened later that we have heard good things about). All in all, the Wings Region came in as the region to beat, and, in this case, the expectations held up.

Overheard “If you want your wings to also give you war paint, that’s the way to go. … They didn’t gyp you on the sauce.” — Trevor Farris, on the amount of barbecue sauce applied to the wings from Longhorn Barbecue

A rebuttal As noted elsewhere, Josh Johnson and Chad Kimberley preferred the sweet chili sauce by a narrow margin, but it’s hard to build too strong of a case against the eventual champion from Flamin’ Joe’s. So good!

Four for the road 1. “More sauce, please,” was the general sentiment about the teriyaki wings from Black Diamond, although the panel noted this would make a great “training wheel wing” for those just starting out and afraid to get their hands too dirty. The sauce, inactually getting off the couch vs. googling ways to lose weight while sitting has made this day a better experience.

One of the enjoyable aspects of the food bracket is debating which food is best after we all consume our share. I would not consider us to be food snobs in the least, yet we are debating taste, texture and temperature like we are experts in the field. The advantage this year is having a tiebreaking fifth man in our lineup — and we had multiple ties throughout the day as it was clear the taste buds were different around the living room. Sadly, during the pizza bracket one of my favorite selections, the Western from River City Pizza, got knocked off, but even I had to agree that the Pizza Rita crust was awesome.

Calories Consumed: 1,400 Glasses of Water: 2

The Final Plate It is halftime of the Gonzaga game and the score indicates we are moving quickly toward my Iowa/Zags matchup, so it is time to have one final assortment of foods from

The Current

cidentally, is not on the menu, but was requested after coming heavily recommended by friend-of-The-Current Craig Swanson, the man behind the popular Spokane Valley Scoop blog (Swanson also recommends Black Diamond’s barbecue sauce). Kenna Lagalt, who owns Black Diamond with husband, Steve, is the woman behind the tasty sauces. “Kenna is a sauce and spice afficianado, and she makes some good stuff,” Swanson says. Agreed.

2. The judges raved about the familiar sauce from Longhorn Barbecue — “good, sweet and smoky,” was one comment. It might have done better in a true barbecue vs. barbecue competition instead of the apples-to-oranges contest against such unique flavors.

3. “Kentucky goes down!” That was the feeling when the two-time victors from The Ref lost in the region final. It was a classic battle of smooth-and-sweet vs. vibrant kick — probably comes down to what you are in the mood for.

4. Lots has already been written about the champion wings from Flamin’ Joe’s, but time to give a little credit where credit is due. Leslie Camden Goold — who, by the way, is a true community hero who works tirelessly for kids in need of an advocate as a school social worker in the Central Valley School District — was the person who suggested we try the Thai Peanut variety in the first place.

What’s funny is that, of the literally dozens of recommendations we considered, Leslie also suggested we try the “Sundowner” at the High Nooner when kindly responding to a Facebook post a few weeks back. Those were her only two recommendations for this story, and they both ended up in our Final Four. When this woman takes a lunch break, may we recommend you follow that car. throughout the day. Currently in the kitchen, we have a few wings, some slices of pizza and some donuts. I am thinking this night need to end with some milk, donuts and a deep sleep.

Calories Consumed: 500 Glasses of Water: 0 I love this day. Food; basketball; crazy dunks on a kid-sized hoop; Iowa and Gonzaga winning; Jay’s foot massage machine that actually helps move you toward a deep sleep; not needing to consume Pepto; trying to kill Jay’s dog by accidentally leaving buffalo wing bones on the floor; seeing the kids after school; seeing the kids leave for a different house; and most importantly, hanging out with the guys.

I am already dreaming up the foods we are going to consume next year.

Total Calories Consumed: 5,100 Total Calories Burned: 1,100 Net Gain Calories: 4,000 Chad Kimberley is a teacher at Valley Christian School and longtime contributor to The Current.

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 33

BUSINESS

Café, like mangroves, has weathered the storms Zoning issues, fire delayed long-held dream

THE SHADDUCK STORY Jerry and Ratree Shadduck met in 1975 while working together in an Air Force dental clinic in Thailand. The couple married a year later.

By Valerie Putnam

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Following a host of delays and setbacks, it seems appropriate the name of a cafe soon to open in Spokane Valley would represent something stabilizing. Owners Ratree and Jerry Shadduck have titled their long-awaited dream Mangrove Café.

“Mangrove trees protect the coast line,” Ratree said of the tropical tree known to keep erosion at bay. “Without them, it would flood. The trees have purpose., The Shadducks battled a series of storms as they worked to open Mangrove Café, ranging from zoning changes to a devastating fire. Now that the opening is within site — it is happening this spring, they report, although the final date has yet to be set — there is hope the cafe will be strong as the tree it is named after.

“It’s been an interesting journey,” Ratree said. “Quitting was never an option for me. In a way it has made us a lot stronger and a little bit wiser.”

The journey began when the couple purchased two properties in 2008 located on Bowdish Road, just north of its busy intersection with Sprague Avenue. Each parcel included a 1930s-era home, one of which they planned to turn into a café, a long-held dream of Ratree’s. Though they originally planned to make the home closer to Sprague the Café and the north one their residence, plans switched as the journey to opening the business progressed. The couple began renovating the north home at 18 N. Bowdish Road.

“It was used as rental property,” Ratree said. “So it was in horrible shape. It took us a lot of time to clean and patch up.”

As the couple progressed with the renovation, the zoning changed on the property.

“It changed from mixed use,” Jerry said.

“We could have a bed and breakfast on the property but not a café.”

The couple didn’t learn of the change until they submitted an application for a permit. Ratree drafted a letter and went before the Spokane Valley City Council pleading her case. Council approved the zone change back to mixed use in spring 2010.

“They understood,” Ratree said. “They were really helpful.”

Once the zoning was again favorable, the couple submitted plans to the city. It was at that point they learned the property’s setback needed to be 10 feet from their building to the convenience store property located along Sprague on the

“It was an office romance,” Ratree said.

After leaving the military, the couple and their three daughters moved to Spokane in 1991. Jerry got a job for the Veterans Association and worked for them 20 years. Ratree stayed home and raised her three daughters. She took a job working at a bakery in the Valley when the girls got into high school.

“My intention to go there was to learn the business,” Ratree said, “see if that is what I wanted to do.”

Married 39 years, the couple recently retired and are pursuing Ratree’s dream of owning a small café.

CURRENT PHOTO BY VALERIE PUTNAM

Jerry and Ratree Shadduck plan to open Mangrove Café at 18 N. Bowdish Road later this spring. south side. As it was, the existing setback was less than the distance required. In order to meet the requirements, the couple was instructed to build a concrete firewall along the south side of the property.

“I can’t imagine a wall that high,” Ratree said. “It would be so unsightly.”

In an effort to avoid building the firewall, they tried to secure an easement from the property owner. The property owner, though, would not grant the easement. A city employee then suggested switching houses.

“We did as he suggested,” Jerry said.

“We lived in the basement of this home while renovating the other.”

The renovation began for the café on the upper floor of the north building in April 2013.

The couple completed a great deal of the renovation themselves and hired Brosvik Inc. as a contractor to do the major projects. Construction involved creating an addition to the building for an ADA accessible bathroom, reroofing the entire house, tearing down walls and installing new electrical.

Contractor Matt Brosvik said the biggest challenge was drafting plans to plumb seven sinks into the small kitchen. Although Brosvik didn’t install the plumbing himself, he drafted plans and did preliminary work in preparation for the plumbing.

As the renovation progressed, the couple ran into trouble when the ceiling of the 1930s kitchen did not meet code for the ventilating system.

“The biggest issue was the hood system,” Ratree said. “The ceiling was too low.”

The couple hired Spokane Restaurant Equipment to find a solution to the problem, which eventually led to a recommendation to have a custom hood built.

“With that, the city accepted it,” Ratree said. “It took almost six months to get it to point where they accepted it.”

While construction was under way for the café, the couple also renovated the other home into their new residence. The day the home was completely renovated, just after hanging the final curtain in the freshly painted kitchen, Ratree went over

to the café to stain wood trims.

“I looked over and saw smoke coming from the basement,” Ratree said. “I couldn’t have been here more than 15 minutes” That was Dec. 5, 2013. The fire originated in the furnace room, damaging the entire basement, kitchen floor and causing significant smoke damage throughout the house. The estimated damage amounted to over $175,000.

“Our adjuster made a comment he had never seen that much smoke damage,” Jerry said. “It was significant.”

In June, the couple hired Brosvik to renovate the damaged home.

“We completely rebuilt the home from the ground up,” Brosvik said. “It was the biggest project we’ve ever done. Overall, we’re happy with how it turned out.”

As the renovation process continued, Ratree found solace in designing and planting a large garden in back of the Café.

“You have too many lemons, you make lemonade,” Ratree laughs. “My rose garden was my lemonade.”

When the weather gets warmer, customers can enjoy over 50 different varieties of flowers, including 100 roses and two tropical angel trumpet trees. Her garden also features a large gazebo.

“Flowers are my passion,” Ratree said.

“Food, too. Combine the two, it makes the place special.”

Moving into their restored residence

See CAFÉ, page 37

34 • APRIL 2015

Titan.

Bulldog.

Mariner?

SPORTS

The Current

U-Hi grad making spring push for spot on big-league roster

By Mike Vlahovich

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

Greater Spokane League baseball in 2008 had arguably the best pitching group in history. Half a dozen hurlers signed with or committed to Division I colleges, and most would go on to play professionally.

One of them, University’s Tyler Olson, wasn’t among three named All-GSL. He wasn’t even considered the best pitcher for the Titans.

“It’s funny,” former University baseball coach Scott Sutherland recalls of Olson.

“He never was the top dog.”

But after being named West Coast Conference Pitcher of the Year in 2013 durOLSON ing a stellar career at Gonzaga University, the 25-year old lefthander has surpassed them all, this year bidding for a spot on the roster of the Seattle Mariners.

Pitching in short relief during spring training, Olson was making the most of his chance, virtually unhittable in his appearances as the countdown to regular season roster assignments approached.

What a difference seven years makes.

At a young age, one can never predict an athlete’s future. GU coach Mark Machtolf said that even recruiting a player for college is a guessing game.

When Sutherland had Olson at U-Hi, he said he was “kind of like a fawn deer, a late bloomer physically and that’s why you never know.”

Machtolf himself said when Olson signed, “He’s one of those guys you project and hope it works out.”

When I interviewed Olson seven years ago for a story about the six pitchers, he told me his dream had been to play basketball for the Zags.

But he went from “such a stick figure, my only question mark was (would he) … get strong enough,” to play beyond high school (Sutherland said) to one who “If we can get

SUBMITTED PHOTO

University High School graduate Tyler Olson, pictured here during his years pitching for Gonzaga University, was challenging for a spot on the Seattle Mariners at the time The Current went to press after a strong spring training with the club. him to where he helps us at the college level, that’s good,” (Machtolf).

“Most people don’t continue to go on that far,” Machtolf said of Olson’s professional baseball rise.

Olson had always been a youth sports prodigy, a high-scoring basketball player and hard-throwing pitcher. He made varsity in basketball when just a freshman at U-Hi and baseball as a sophomore.

But a sudden move to California in November of his junior year, a crucial recruiting period for college coaches, took him off the local radar. Luckily, the stay was shortlived and a last-minute fall appearance at a Baseball Northwest showcase caught the eye of a Gonzaga University coach.

“We kept watching him and he kept getting better,” Machtolf said.

Olson had a 4-1 pitching record for U-Hi his senior season, played first base, batted .500, hit four home runs and led the GSL with 38 runs batted in, prompting Machtolf to consider him a position prospect as well as a pitcher. As it turned out, GU had plenty of hitting. It became obvious, Machtolf said, where Olson’s future lay.

He was injured as a sophomore and redshirted.

“Between his sophomore and junior years he really made a jump,” Machtolf said. “He had some God-given ability of course, but

he just kept getting better every step of the way. His slider really took off. He has good movement on his fastball, which is going to bode well in the future. He’s picked up the changeup.”

Following his junior year, Olson was drafted by Oakland, but he opted instead to return for his fifth season, a decision that impessed his older brother Kyle, and broke out. He had a 9-4 win-loss record with a 2.48 earned run average and 91 strikeouts in 101 2/3 1innings in 2013 (181 strikeouts over his final two seasons) and was WCC Pitcher of the Year.

He was drafted by Seattle and in his first two minor league seasons, with Class A Ev-

erett, High Desert and AA Jackson, he was primarily a starter. But there’s a living to be made as a left handed short reliever, and that’s what he’s thrived on so far.

“Everyone’s very excited about it,” said Kyle Olson, an assistant basketball coach at Freeman High, speaking on behalf of the family. “We had hopes he’d have a successful spring training and start higher than Class AA. So far he’s exceeded expectations, I’d say.

“There’s a pretty big fan base around us and obviously we’re on the edge of our seats. No matter where he does end up, whether with the Mariners or (AAA) Tacoma, we’re rooting for him.”

Watching Tyler over the years …

It seems like yesterday that Tyler Olson and my son, Brett, were playing basketball together on an AAU sixthgrade team coached by his dad, Jeff, and appropriately named the Bulldogs.

The pictures still grace the refrigerator in our kitchen.

The two squared off against each other on the pitching mound summers on opposing Spokane Valley Baseball

league teams. As might be expected, Olson prevailed.

The two graduated from University High together, but by then their paths had diverged, Brett’s to the performing arts and student government. But if Olson sticks with the Mariners, who knows, their paths may cross. Brett teaches in Seattle.

— Mike Vlahovich

The Current

Track season off to fast start

By Mike Vlahovich

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

The early season West Valley track meet, now the Howard Dolphin Invitational, named for the late coaching legend, turned in some stellar marks for local athletes.

Indeed, University distance runner Isaac Barville’s 2:00.3 and 4:24.62 efforts ranked third among 4A runners in early reports.

Titan teammate Noah Martin had already high jumped 6-foot-6 and pole vaulted 13-6 to rank among the top four in both.

West Valley had its share of strong early efforts, both in Wenatchee against Eastmont and at its invitational.

Mac Baxter was a State 2A hurdles leader with quick early high and intermediate race times of 14.89 and 39.53 seconds. Distance

APRIL 2015 • 35

SPORTS teammate Skyler Ovnicek was among the top three in the 800, 1,600 (first at 4:30) and 3,200 meters. East Valley’s Chad Stevens led the latter at 9:50.9.

Josh Miller had already pole vaulted 14 feet, 6 inches, Alex Dyfort was second in the discus and Tevin Duke among the sprint and long jump bests.

East Valley’s Brittany Aquino led the state with a swift early season 11:36.1 3,200.

West Valley’s McCall Skay was second at 12:13.7. Eagles teammate Rachel McGlothen had a shot put throw of 37-8.5, third best among 2A girls in state, and EV discus throwers Brianna Michelbook and Samantha Dale were second and third after the Howard Dolphin Invite. WV’s Jordyn Rauer had a strong 34-9 early season triple jump.

Central Valley freshman basketball standout Lacie Hull turned out for track and long jumped 16-2.5 in her high school debut.

WV boys relay teams already turned in mid-season marks that ran first (1,600 in 3:26.92) and second (400 in 43.34) in the state.

Veterans lead baseball John Sage and Austin Lee have been integral parts of West Valley baseball seemingly forever, which should make Cory Aitken’s transition to head coach smoother.

The pair made his debut a success when Lee fanned 10 and Sage hit a two-run home run in a 7-3 win over Pullman.

East Valley veteran Alex Bowdish drove

in the winning run for the Knights first victory in four games.

Central Valley was 1-1-1 for new coach Mike Amend, but the first win counted most coming as it did as the first Greater Spokane League counter. Returning starters Austin Bergdahl pitched six innings of shutout ball and Colton Peha had two hits in the 5-1 win over Mead.

Mixed results for soccer When CV’s boys soccer team opened the season with a pair of non-league matches, Eastmont and West Valley received a double whammy.

Varsity veteran J.D. Hauenstein, a junior, scored twice during the Bears 3-1 victory over Eastmont in Wenatchee.

A few days later, younger brother Devin, moved up from junior varsity, torched West Valley for four goals in their 8-0 win.

The Eagles won two of their first five matches, Chris Hatten with three goals and an assist and Chris Lucas with four assists.

University was led by Tyler Kemp and Mack Tate who scored three goals each in their first three matches, two of them wins.

Kemp added two assists.

East Valley had but a single goal in three matches, all of them losses.

Softball has hopes Although the early results haven’t shown it, University returns several of the pieces that nearly earned it a state fastpitch softball trophy last year.

Both East Valley and Central Valley just missed state trips, and also have veteran players back.

As usual, the key will be how well pitching holds up.

The Titans, moved up to 4A, allowed 21 runs in two preseason games in preparation for the GSL season.

The Knights divided their first four games, but did win 10-0 to open league play, and West Valley began the season 1-3, two of those losses in league.

Central Valley must make do without Carli Riordan, spoiled as the Bears were with the four-year pitching star.

But they do have much of the offense that won last fall’s slowpitch district title, including MaKenna Wasteney and Hannah Anderson, who now are in charge on the mound.

All-League shortstop Shayla Vegas anchors the infield and provides a big bat, and the team is bolstered by state placing volleyball standouts Jade and Meghan Rockwood.

The Titans bring back All-GSL veterans, pitcher Alex Douglas, big hitters/defenders Brooklynn Tacke, Kirsten Anstrom and Rachael Johnson for a solid nucleus.

The Knights return all-leaguers Katy Sinn and Brianna Lasso who, in the early going, took up swinging the bats where they left off last year. West Valley is paced

by All-Great Northern League Jordyn Tiffany.

Tinkering with basketball could play into Goliath’s hand

By Mike Vlahovich THE FINAL POINT

As March Madness wends its way into April’s NCAA championship basketball conclusion, it’s time to reflect on the state of my favorite sport.

Basketball experts have been weighing in on the woes of the game for a month now with several stories worrying that fans are losing interest in the game. Cause for the malaise is that scoring is at a near-record low, fouls are soaring, attendance has dropped precipitously in many places and television ratings are struggling.

In the March 9 Sports Illustrated, Seth Davis’s Special Report “Foul Play” asserted that college basketball’s crisis is due to overtly physical play and plodding pace. It was part of a two-story, point-counterpoint argument over the beauty of crowd-pleasing, up-tempo basketball versus a more me-

thodical, defensive-centric philosophy.

He cited how the beauty of Gonzaga University’s near-80 point per game scoring average offense was sullied by San Diego, which ground the game to a halt, beat up the Bulldogs and bored the audience in their insistence on trying to win.

In the SI countering story by Luke Winn, he quoted the late John Wooden as saying he preferred the fast break because, he said, though ball control may be better, the game would lose popularity.

As such, Davis called for rules to improve the flow of the game and influence a more up-tempo style: Reduce the shot clock to 30 or even 24 seconds; extend the arc under the basket to unclog the paint; widen the lane; move the three-point line back and limit timeouts (of which there are currently nine, counting TV timeouts).

His other argument is to take the coaches out of decision making because of their resistance to change, although given the decision making of committees in my experience and watching NCAA tourney bracket selecting, that might be dubious.

On the other side of the argument, Winn stated the case for defense and controlled offense. While fast break coaches were

willing to trade mistakes to stress defenses with their speed, he wrote, these coaches subscribe to the Bob Knight theory that “Victory favors the team making the fewest mistakes.”

Dick and Tony Bennett, Bo Ryan and their Pack-Line defense crowds the key and pressures the shooter and is the D du jour, taking teams to the Final Four and giving teams with supposed lesser talent a chance against their Kentucky one-and-done contemporaries. However, the Seth Davis’s say, it is not fan friendly.

We dinosaurs have watched basketball for decades, when there was no shot clock and with one, with no three-point line and with one. Like advancing technology, the level of individual talent is so much better it has altered strategy, but the game, in essence is the same.

There are certain fundamentals and a general understanding of the game that hasn’t changed. In my opinion, the best basketball is a blend of tortoise and hare; solid half-court offense abetted by the fast break when it is there. The 3-point line is a useful servant (can you imagine what Pete Maravich would have accomplished?) but fearful master (how many teams — particularly in

high school — have shot themselves out of games?). Above all, I was taught, defense wins games.

The one thing I agreed with in the Davis treatise was his contention that the officials’ lax enforcement of overly physical defense has ruined the game’s flow. If there’s one area that turns fans off it is the hacking and grabbing, pushing and shoving, elbowing and forearm shivers. Control fouling and you’ll have all the excitement you need.

You can re-draw the 3-point line, widen the lane, tinker with the time clock all you want. But don’t force basketball teams to conform to some ideal that supposedly benefits superior talent.

Let the underdogs have their day and strategize all they want.

If those major programs are that much better, they shouldn’t be bullied, outhustled for loose balls, give up second-chance rebounds or be outgunned from 3-point land.

They shouldn’t lose.

Anyway, what’s more compelling than watching an upset (unless it’s your team)?

Mike Vlahovich is a longtime Spokane Valley sportswriter and member of the Inland Northwest Hall of Fame Scroll of Honor.

36 • APRIL 2015

OPINION

Trustworthiness makes an impact

By Dr. Debbie Tully

CURRENT GUEST COLUMN

You can trust me; I’m a teacher. One would hope that this statement is true.

Historically teachers enjoyed a reputation for being highly respected adults in the community. The trustworthiness of a teacher was assumed in much the same way people believed that they could place their trust in local police officers and city firemen. Although in the United States this profession is not as revered as it once was, the expectation still exists. Teachers can be trusted.

This is evident in the reality that parents all across the nation entrust teachers to protect and care for their most prized possessions, their sons and daughters, for seven hours per day, five days a week.

Not only is this a matter of trust on the part of parents and guardians, it is backed by a legal obligation on the part of educators to act “in loco parentis,” which is Latin for “in the place of a parent.” In the broadest sense, this means that teachers assume the duties and obligations of the parents while caring for the youth in their classrooms, on the playgrounds, in the cafeteria, in athletic competitions, on fieldtrips and any and all teacher supervised settings. As stated in the 1999 book “Building Character in Schools” by Ryan and Bohlin: “We (teachers) have an enormous obligation to preserve the public trust placed in us by parents, students and community members. There is no question about it — educators bear a special responsibility.”

However, commitment to an ethical code of conduct and the maintenance of public trust are not the main reasons teachers place such a high value on modeling trustworthiness. Teachers understand, and research supports, the notion that building trusting relationships with students positively impacts student performance. For example, one three-year research study involving 12 Chicago elementary schools found that “relational trust surpassed money, parental involvement and a whole host of other variables as the number one predictor of positive feelings about school and improved academic achievement.”

Likewise, brain research tells us that students need to feel safe in order to take risks, learn new things and collabo-

rate effectively with peers. Ask any educator who has spent time in a classroom working as a substitute teacher — trust matters. When faced with an unknown authority figure, students test the limits to determine if this new person can be trusted to be just that, the authority figure. Students act out in an attempt to quickly surmise whether or not the replacement teacher can be trusted to keep them safe from bullies; to treat them in a respectful manner; and to uphold the classroom expectations consistently.

I have seen this to be true in my own work with schools. As a professor whose job includes implementing universityschool partnerships, I often have the pleasure of collaborating with teachers for the mutual benefit of K-12 students and teaching candidates. Recently at a partner elementary school an extensive study of practices and perceptions was conducted. The results indicated that among the myriad issues impacting this school, trust was identified as number one by teachers and staff. This underscores the key role that trust plays in creating learning environments that support the learning of all community members: adults as well as youth.

In my work with local schools I have also learned that developing trust takes time and consistency. You need to keep showing up and walking the talk. The good news is that I observe teachers rise to this challenge every day. From student teachers to veteran instructors, educators work diligently to model the behaviors that garner students’ trust.

I feel proud to call myself a member of the teaching profession. Collectively teachers are maintaining the public trust, living out their “in loco parentis” duties and positively impacting student learning by modeling the essential PACE character trait of trustworthiness.

Dr. Debbie Tully is the Associate Dean of Teacher Education and School Partnerships for Whitworth University’s School of Education. She is member of the Partners Advancing Character Education Executive Board and chair of the PACE Curriculum and Resources Committee. Her research efforts and professional passions include character education as an essential component of educating the whole child for civic engagement and global citizenship. She wrote this column as part of a series highlighting the PACE trait of the month.

The trait for April is trustworthiness.

The Current

The Current

APRIL 2015 • 37

BUSINESS Volume 4, Issue 4 EDITOR/PUBLISHER

Josh Johnson

GENERAL MANAGER

Tammy Kimberley

Sarah Burk

josh@valleycurrent.com tammy@valleycurrent.com GRAPHICS EDITOR

sarah@valleycurrent.com

CIRCULATION Dean Byrns Mike Wiykovics

circulation@valleycurrent.com CONTRIBUTORS

Lauren Campbell, Gwendolyn Haley, Craig Howard, Mary Kate Koch, Treva Lind, Valerie Putnam, Tyler Robbins, Jayne Singleton, Mike Vlahovich

On the cover: Current photos by Matt Goldbloom

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Submitted materials Announcements, obituaries, letters to the editor and story ideas are encouraged. Submit them in writing to editor@valleycurrent.com or mail them to The Current office. Submissions should be received by the 15th of the month for best chance of publication in the following month’s Current.

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CAFÉ Continued from page 33

earlier this year, they are working on the finishing touches of the café in advance of their springtime opening.

Serving breakfast and lunch, the Café plans to be open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition to serving fresh-baked goods, Ratree, who is originally from Thailand, plans to make authentic Thai dishes such as pad Thai and other international dishes.

“We’ve traveled quite a bit and sampled different cuisines,” Ratree said. “I take what we like and try to improve upon it.”

The menu will feature selections made from scratch using produce from area farmers. Ratree also wants to use organic where she can.

“I think the most important thing is service and quality of food,” Ratree said.

“We’ll have good quality — fresh, homemade and wholesome.”

A daily special will be offered for lunch.

Eventually, the couple plans to serve dinners by reservation only.

“This is a new thing for us,” Ratree said.

“We’re going to start out slow and see how things go.”

The 1,000-square-foot café features an intimate setting with eclectic repurposed décor. It can seat up to 25 patrons comfortably. Ratree repurposed all of the café’s furniture.

“I like to recycle things,” she said. “I do my part to keep planet a better place.”

The café was inspired by European cafés the Shadducks visited while in the military.

“They know how to enjoy life and good food,” Ratree said of the Europeans she met. “They have a lot of small restaurants, and that gave me the idea.”

Ratree envisions her new café becoming a community meeting place similar to European counterparts, where customers gather to enjoy time together. Future plans include offering art and knitting classes.

“We are going to offer something unique,” Ratree said. “Something different. Just a fun place for community to get together.”

Advertising Integrity Inaccurate or deceptive advertising is never knowingly accepted. Complaints about advertisers should be made in writing to the Better Business Bureau and to advertise@valleycurrent.com.

The Current is not responsible for the content of or claims made in ads.

Copyright © 2015 All rights reserved. All contents of The Current may not be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

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Index of advertisers Following are the local advertisers in this issue of The Current.

Amaculate Housekeeping Barlows Restaurant Casey Family Dental Central Valley Theatre Clark’s Tire & Automotive Cornerstone Pentecostal Church Evergreen Fountains Inland Empire Utility Coord. Council Inland NW Baby Jim Custer Enterprises K9 Country Club KiDDS Dental Lakeside Holistic Health

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Spokane County Library District 18 Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce 11 St Joseph Fair Trade Event 9 Switch Up Web & Marketing 13 Valley Christian School 7 Valley Hospital 4 Valley Real Life 17 Weishaar, Sue D.D.S. 7 Windermere Marathon 15

Service Directory 38

Of note: This thank you message was produced by The Current’s advertising team, which works its tail off on behalf of partner businesses, helping them share their messages through advertisements. This is an independent function from The Current’s editorial team, which has its own evaluation process to determine the community news stories and features it pursues. For more information about a win-win partnership that expertly markets your business to thousands of readers (while making this home-grown community newspaper possible), email advertise@valleycurrent.com. With story ideas, contact editor@valleycurrent.com.

The Current

38 • APRIL 2015

BUSINESS

BIZ NOTES Continued from page 27

Numerica Credit Union also announced the hiring of Elizabeth Giles as its media relations liaison. Giles has over 11 years of experience in the marketing and communications field. She has worked previously in marketing and communications for Inland Northwest Blood Center and Camp Fire Inland Northwest Council.

Bakery celebrates anniversary Sweet Tooth Bakery and Espresso, 24921 E. Trent Ave. in Newman Lake, is celebrating its third anniversary throughout the month of April. As part of its anniversary celebration, new donuts will be introduced and pumpkin cake donuts are returning.

Customers will also have the opportunity to name their favorite new Redbull smoothie. Free samples of the smoothies will be given away, and the winning name will be used in the bakery.

For hours and more, call 226-4444.

STCU honors Trentwood principal Trentwood Elementary School Principal Ted Epperson was selected to be the Principal on Parade at the March 14 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Spokane. Epperson was invited to ride in the parade with Noah Henderson, the student who nominated him.

In addition, Trentwood Elementary received a $1,000 donation from STCU and the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, co-sponsors of the contest.

Bank tops national list Fortune magazine recently named U.S. Bancorp the most admired super-regional bank today, the fifth consecutive year the company has topped the list. U.S. Bancorp is the parent company of U.S. Bank, with multiple branches located throughout the Valley area.

Fortune also recognized U.S. Bancorp among the top 10 most admired of companies in all industries. In addition, U.S. Bancorp ranked first in the super-regional banks category of the nine industry key attributes of reputation: innovation, people management, use of corporate assets, social responsibility, quality of management, financial soundness, long-term investment value and quality of products/ services.

Fortune's ranking is determined by a survey of executives, directors and analysts rating companies inside and outside of their industry.

Valley Partners elects board Spokane Valley Partners, a non-profit organization serving economically-disadvantaged residents, recently named Anne Hagman, STCU senior community devel-

opment officer, as its new board president.

Other 2015 board members include President-elect Nancy Ledeboer, Spokane County Library District; Past Board President Nancy Nelson, Humanix; Treasurer Mark Thompson, Wheatland Bank; Secretary Brian Singer, Lydig Construction; student Briton Demars, Central Valley High School; retired engineer Pat Dockrey; Pastor Steve Pannkuk, Advent Lutheran Church; Laurie Robinson, Washington Trust Bank Valley Financial Center; and former Spokane Valley Mayor Diana Wilhite.

For more, visit www.svpart.org.

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SCC expands evening programs Spokane Community College recently expanded its evening programs in order for working professionals to advance their career or finish a degree. The expanded evening program will operate year-round and include all courses necessary to complete technical certifications and earn an associate of arts transfer degree.

“We know people working during the day need to have a chance to get ahead with their education and training in the evening,” said SCC president Scott Morgan. “Our evening program provides the pathway to an AA degree and certificates in high wage fields like welding and machining.”

SCC also has expanded student services — including financial aid, admissions, career services and counseling — to accommodate evening students.

Spring quarter enrollment is now underway. For more, go to www.ccs.spokane. edu.

Former Chamber president opens Food Flavor Fit Eldonna Shaw-Davis is partnering with her husband Larry Davis to launch a new

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Guild’s School announces 2015 board The Spokane Guilds' School & Neuromuscular Center announced its board of directors for 2015. The executive committee is made up of President Kris Brill, Ecova; First Vice President Paul Wasson, attorney; Second Vice President Kay Anderson, dental hygienist; CPA-Treasurer Deanna Adams, Trans-System, Inc.; Assistant Treasurer Ryan Kile, Northwest Farm Credit; Secretary Tim Engh, American West Bank.

Community representatives include Molly Bergan, Tim Cassels, Stephanie Coy, Stacey Klim, Wendy Schuller, Eric Smith and Tim Stulc, Vandervert. Parent representatives are Stefani Spilker and April Sweatt.

These volunteer members help further the organization's mission to nurture the full potential of families and their children, from birth to 3, with disabilities. For more, visit www.guildschool.org.

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EVENT & MEETING FACILITY HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? The Tri Community Grange Event Hall is an affordable and ideal location for parties, receptions, dances, reunions and meetings. Full kitchen, stage, piano, tables and chairs, handicap accessible, large parking lot and free signage. Call Gary at 509-481-0727 or email geje2@yahoo.com.

MUSIC INSTRUCTION SAM’S PERCUSSION STUDIO Now offering lessons in snare drums, drum sets, mallets, beginning piano, music theory and hand drums.

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Free bids and no money required upfront. Licensed, bonded, insured. Call Tom at 509-432-6780.

Valley Parent Co-op Preschool is a birth to 5 preschool program operated by parents in a cooperative effort with the Community Colleges of Spokane. It is a playbased program that combines parent education with a rich learning experience for you and your child.

Classes are M, W & F. For more info, call 509-720-9209.

business dedicated to helping people enjoy good food and good health. Shaw-Davis will offer healthy home cooking classes, health and coaching and blog postings offering original recipes and health tips at foodflavorfit.com.

became a Certified Health Coach through the Center for Obesity Prevention and Education (C.O.P.E.) at Villanova University and Take Shape For Life.

The business also highlights Inland Northwest food artisans and restaurants featuring healthy menu items to help promote other small businesses. This new venture combines her passion for cooking and education in home economics.

Shaw-Davis retired last year as president and CEO of the Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce. Larry Davis is currently a college professor at EWU, after a successful career as a management consultant to small and large companies.

As a couple, the Shaws have successfully lost over 100 pounds together through a sensible weight loss program and attention to healthy food. Last summer Shaw-Davis

SV potters start studio Several local pottery artists and teachers are collaborating to open the Urban Art Co-op at 3017 N. Monroe in Spokane.

Spokane Valley residents JoDee Moody, John Newman and Keith Harger along with Autumn Bunton, Nick Lowe and Karen Mannino will serve as studio artists and teachers.

Classes are currently being offered at all levels in wheel throwing and handbuilding. Cost is $125 per two-hour class.

Artists can also purchase monthly studio time.

The studio will be open various hours Monday through Saturday. For more, call 720-7624 or email Uart.coop@gmail. com.

The Current

PARTING SHOTS

APRIL 2015 • 39

U-Hi senior addresses international audience Promotes safe driving practices at Chicago conference

By Craig Howard

CURRENT CONTRIBUTOR

In Jonna VanDyk’s 22 years with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, she couldn’t recall a high school student from the Evergreen state being a presenter at the prestigious Lifesavers International Traffic Safety Conference.

This year, there were two.

Hunter Watson, a senior at University High School in Spokane Valley and Kennedy Gwinn, a junior at Hoquiam High School, were invited to provide an overview of responsible driving programs at their respective schools at the annual event in Chicago, March 15-17. Both presentations sprang from a project intended to raise awareness of issues like distracted driving and impaired driving at schools throughout Washington.

“Our students were fantastic,” VanDyk said. “They had fantastic speeches that really covered their programs and delivered these speeches with confidence. I was really proud of them.”

The Washington Traffic Safety Commission is a state agency that administers grants and coordinates programs with a goal of reducing serious injuries and fatalities resulting from vehicle collisions.

The commission received a grant from State Farm Insurance to promote a project that would emphasize student-led education regarding the dangers of texting while driving and driving under the influence of substances like alcohol and drugs.

The project has been in place for nearly four years and was featured last year on a national level by the Governors’ Highway Safety Administration as a “promising practice” in the area of peers teaching peers about responsible driving.

When representatives with the national conference notified the commission that it hoped to spotlight the project on this year’s agenda, the agency narrowed the competition down to the top 50 out of 300 Washington schools that had taken the lead in the promotion of safe driving.

The event typically draws around 2,000 attendees and is recognized as the largest conference of its kind in the world.

“We went to the schools that had really assertive educational traffic safety efforts and University High School was definitely one of them,” VanDyk said.

The efforts at U-Hi have included promotions supporting the “Click It or

SUBMITTED PHOTO

University High School senior Hunter Watson was a presenter at the Lifesavers International Traffic Safety Conference in Chicago, March 15-17.

Watson provided an overview of the projects at U-Hi intended to raise awareness about issues like distracted driving and impaired driving.

CURRENT PHOTO BY CRAIG HOWARD

Ticket” seatbelt campaign, pledge boards to eliminate texting and driving and a program called “Every 15 Minutes,” typically held right before Senior Prom, that sheds light on the potentially tragic consequences of driving under the influence.

In Hunter’s four years of high school, eight of her teenage peers in the greater Spokane area have died in auto-related incidents.

“It’s important to me because I’ve seen it happen in my family and with friends I’ve known,” Hunter said. “I hope to just make it evident to kids that this can happen. I want to bridge that gap so it doesn’t have to impact someone in your life for someone to understand it. I want to make it something that is known and talked about on a regular basis.”

Wally Watson, Hunter’s dad, is a counselor at U-Hi and accompanied her on the trip to Chicago. His brother was rendered a quadriplegic and suffered brain damage at the age of 17 after the car he was riding in ran a stop sign and was hit by another vehicle. Neither person in the car was wearing seat belts.

“For me, it’s always safety first,” Wally said. “You hear stories of people being ejected in this day and age, not wearing seatbelts. I just find that unfathomable.”

In addition to its safe driving programs, U-Hi has an active Washington Drug Free Youth (WDFY) chapter sponsored by the Greater Spokane Substance Abuse Council. The program features education on the dangers of drugs and alcohol as well as impaired driving. WDFY students

take voluntary drug tests throughout the year, receive discounts at participating retail locations and participate in a variety of social activities.

Hunter, who serves as U-Hi ASB president, said the conference helped her appreciate the ongoing nationwide efforts to promote safe driving. Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, served as the keynote speaker while two students from Illinois also presented at the event along with traffic safety experts from across the country.

“The conference was amazing, just to hear what other high schools are doing,” Hunter said. “I was taking notes as they were giving their presentations, thinking that we should have this or that program.”

Wally said even something as basic as the definition of a vehicle-related incident carries an important meaning.

“They made it a point at the conference to emphasize that these aren’t accidents — these are crashes,” he said. “They’re preventable if you don’t text and drive and don’t drink and drive.”

Hunter said she hopes to implement certain programs at U-Hi that she learned about at the conference and continue to promote the theme of being responsible on the road as she transitions to college.

“If my efforts can prevent just one tragedy, then this will be the most beneficial thing I have ever done,” she said. “I was just honored that our high school was represented at a national conference and that we’re trying to making a difference.”

WISE BEHIND THE WHEEL Distracted driving Answering a text takes away your attention for about five seconds. Traveling at 55 mph, that’s enough time to travel the length of a football field. Chances of a crash increase 23 times when a driver is texting and driving.

Alcohol, drugs and driving Alcohol and other impairing drugs are involved in approximately 40 percent of all traffic crashes in which someone is killed each year in the U.S. Alcohol and drugs significantly affect judgment, muscle coordination, balance, vision, color distinction and reaction time.

Fatigued driving The dangers of fatigued driving are similar to those when intoxicated. A fatigued driver has slowed reactions and impaired judgment. Drivers who drift off cause about 72,500 injuries and deaths each year in the U.S.

Buckle up Seat belts reduce serious crash-related injuries and deaths by about 50 percent.

Of the teens (aged 13-20 years) that died in crashes in 2012, approximately 55 percent of them were not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

Sources: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, National Safety Council

The Current

40 • APRIL 2015

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