2023 December Current by The Current

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• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

RIVER CROSSING

Woven in Courage –

Valley mom stands up to cancer By Craig Howard

Current Contributing Editor

Thirty years ago, Jim Valvano stood in front of a capacity crowd at the annual ESPY Awards and encouraged those in attendance to do three things: “If you laugh, think and have your emotions moved to tears each day, that’s a full day,” said the college basketball coach whose battle with cancer inspired millions. Michelle Spear would include one addition to Valvano’s list – make sure you are wearing a luminescent, perpetual smile. Those who know the Spokane Valley mother of four will tell you she’s always smiling – even after the grueling weekly chemotherapy sessions that mean giving her body a chance to rest for a day or two before resuming her active schedule.

lifted off,” Spear said. “Trying to deal with it was so much easier when people knew and they could cheer you on.”

Youth Theater and is a music coordinator for the kids’ program in a Valley ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

both of their birthdays. The experience was another example of Spear’s credo to “have no regrets.”

Spear turned 40 on Oct. 10. Four days later, dozens gathered at Roller Valley in the Dishman-Mica area to celebrate a remarkable person at a birthday party marked by plenty of smiles, laughter, cake and energetic skating to hits of the ‘80s. True to her nature, Spear nudged the attention away from herself as she made it a point to ensure everyone had a memorable time.

“I’ve tried to never let cancer stop me,” Spear said. “I never wanted to be the kind of person that said, ‘Because of this, I can’t do this.’”

“I try not to dwell on the dark stuff, the unknown,” she said. “For me, it’s more about making the most of every situation.”

“That’s just Michelle – it wasn’t really outside the norm,” said Jon. “It wasn’t her one shining moment. She just wanted everyone to be there, roller skate and have fun.” Forging on has become commonplace for Spear who volunteers at Sunrise Elementary School in Spokane Valley, sews costumes for Christian

Karen recalls a particularly difficult week in which Michelle’s oldest son Nixon was playing in a baseball game. “She had gone through chemo and could barely walk but there she was at Nixon’s game, cheering him on,” Karen said. “People say she won’t make it to a game or a band concert, but she’s always there, supporting her kids. She’s inspired me to get up and do more than what’s expected of me.” Spear and her oldest daughter Sadie went on a trip to Paris, Italy and Greece last year to celebrate

Spear talks about the “mental game” in dealing with the rigors of cancer. She also points to innovative treatments like Hypothermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy or HIPEC as keys in keeping her alive.

Q: As you were growing up and dealing with Crohn’s Disease, how did you balance being a kid and having fun with doing what you needed to in order to manage your condition?

The cancer diagnosis showed up in 2016. Spear was already accustomed to doctor’s visits, medication refills and the challenge of grappling with a chronic condition, having dealt with Crohn’s disease – an inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract – since childhood.

“The relief I felt when we told everyone was like a weight being

“In large part, the answer is ‘no,’” he said. “She is the same go-getter behind closed doors as she is in public. She decided from day one that she wasn’t going to let cancer define her. While she won’t hide her diagnosis, she never uses it as an excuse.”

“She’ll laugh about losing her hair, saying she doesn’t have to worry about it,” said Karen. “She’s always asking about others and what they’re going through. She and Jon have just figured it out, every step of the way. I think Michelle honestly does more in a day than most of us do in a week.”

“Michelle is wonderfully abnormal,” said her mother-inlaw Karen Spear. “Whenever Michelle is in the room, everything is more fun. She’s never let cancer get her down.”

After Michelle and her husband Jon kept it to themselves at first, they shared the news with family and friends.

Jon said he is often asked if the public persona of his wife is different from the person at home or in the car after a chemo session.

Contributed photo Spokane Valley resident Michelle Spear (far right with her husband Jon and four kids at Lake Louise in Canada) has been battling cancer since 2016. She has also dealt with Crohn’s disease her entire life. Spear volunteers at Sunrise Elementary and with Christian Youth Theatre as well as with her church.

A: I never let my disease be who I was, it didn’t stop me from anything. I snowed skied every winter, water skied every summer, was on the dance team and a cheerleader. It doesn’t mean I wasn’t sick sometimes and missed a few things but I never let it get me down. See SPEARS, Page 4

DECEMBER 2023 • 3

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• DECEMBER 2023

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SPEARS

Continued from page 2 Q: As a mom of four, what are some of the main lessons and/or principles you try to teach your kids? A: I want them to not sweat the small stuff, to make every day count and be a good person. We talk about making memories all the time and how those are the things we can take with us to heaven and as we get old. Q: Does your experience battling cancer and Crohn’s enter into your approach as a parent and what you want your children to incorporate into their lives? A: It totally does. My attitude and outlook on life has always been pretty positive I think and hopeful but now I try and make sure the kids see how much that can impact your life. If you go into things thinking, ‘I can do hard things’ and you fight until the end, I think it makes a difference. Q: You grew up in Utah but moved to the Inland Northwest after you were married. What is it about this area that has made you feel at home and want to stay? A: I love being so close to so many lakes, hikes and open space. It is beautiful here and I love it. My “happy place” is being at Spirit Lake soaking up the sun every summer.

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Q: Before you were diagnosed with cancer, did you know others in your circle of family or friends that had been affected by the disease and what have you tried to take away from their experiences? A: My uncle had Crohn’s disease also and it turned into rectal cancer. He didn’t catch it very early and died shortly after he was diagnosed. It taught me to listen to my body and even though I hated colonoscopies I got one every year because I knew it would help find cancer if I stayed on top of it. Q: What were some of your first thoughts when you learned you had cancer?

The Current

A: I definitely went through the ‘Why me and what could have been?’ because I do believe I should have taken my colon out earlier but my doctor didn’t suggest it and it could have prevented cancer. But in the long run it doesn’t make today change dwelling on what could have been. So I picked myself up and decided I wouldn’t have regrets only motivation to change the outcome. Q: How has faith entered into your journey? A: I have a shirt actually that says “Faith it ‘til you make it” and I truly believe that. We don’t know what tomorrow is going to bring or next year but with faith we can at least hope for those to happen. Faith is the only thing constant in my life really – faith over fear. Q: Whether it’s Crohn’s or cancer, how important is it to you to offer advice or encouragement to others battling those conditions? Do you see yourself as an inspiration? A: I will give advice if someone asks but I don’t go around giving it. I hope people look at me and see me as a mother before they see me as a cancer patient. Q: What would you say to someone who has recently been diagnosed with cancer? A: You have to have a positive attitude as you battle. If you think about all the negative things, it will take all the strength you have and you don’t have any extra to give. Q: Finally, with the holiday season approaching, what are some gifts that you savor the most? A: I love traditions and all the holidays, so we have certain things we do together. We make homemade candy canes like I use to as a kid and we also do Twelve Days of Christmas to a family we know and center it around Christ. I love giving gifts and watching their faces as they open it. I don’t care if I get anything. Honestly, it’s more about the time we spend together.

The Current

NEWS

Wishing Star grants wishes By Nina Culver

Current contributor

A pair of twin 15-year-old brothers who have shared a tiny Spokane Valley bedroom for their entire lives were gifted their own new bedrooms by the Wishing Star Foundation last month. Not only did each brother get his own space, but the rooms were decorated according to their own tastes. Each decided they wanted a lofted bed so they could make the most of available storage space. The rooms were unveiled last month as their parents and grandparents stood by. Shane Barnhart walked into his room with his hand over his mouth, at a loss for words. “Wow, it’s really so cool,” he said. “It’s all so nice.” He likes anime and computer gaming, so his room reflected that. A gaming computer sat on a small desk and a small tv perched on the wall near his bed. Though the room is small, it is still larger than what he was used to. “My other room was actually smaller and it had two people in it,” he said. Many children and teens who ask for a wish ask for things like taking a trip or meeting a celebrity, but Barnhart had no interest in something temporary. “If you go meet a celebrity, it just happens once,” he said. “If you get a gaming room, you can use it over and over and over.” Matthew Barnhart also got a gaming computer and tv, but his room was decorated in a Star Wars theme. A light saber hung on the wall above the bed and models of a Tie Fighter, an X-wing and the Millennium Falcon hung from the ceiling.

her sons have a genetic condition that makes their muscles spasm frequently. “They’re in pain 90 percent of the time,” she said.

The family first applied for a wish four years ago and had to have a letter from her son’s doctor to make sure they qualified. A portion of their small unfinished basement was finished to create the two bedrooms. Peterson said she’s glad that each of her sons now has his own space and that they can now invite friends over to hang out. That was something they couldn’t do in the tiny room they shared together. “It will be a life changer, for sure,” she said. Katie Prugh, executive director of the Wishing Star Foundation, said her organization has done room makeovers before, but hasn’t built bedrooms before. It’s an expensive proposition and the organization is funded by donations and some grants. “A majority of our funding comes from individual and corporate donations,” she said. The room construction was made possible by in-kind donations from Brother’s Flooring, which did the drywall, painting and flooring, Prugh said. “We are able to do it because of the generosity of Brother’s Flooring,” she said. “They’re covering construction and material costs.” The boys also received new beds and bedding in addition to their televisions, computers and room decorations. The rooms have been in the works for a year and construction started in July. Prugh said the boys were kept out of the basement for the majority of the process. “They have not seen it since the drywall phase,” she said.

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NEWS

The Current

create its own police department, Council position 2 had no Spokane which some council members incumbent after councilwoman advocated for. Brandi Peetz, who was elected to Valley Election haveWoodard often voted with the the council in 2017, announced majority on the council, which she would not run for another Recap includes Mayor Pam Haley, term. Political newcomers Jessica By Nina Culver

Current contributor

In a surprise to many, challenger Al Merkel defeated longtime Spokane Valley City Council incumbent Arne Woodard decisively in the November election.

Albert Merkel

Tim Hattenburg

A retired real estate broker, Woodard was first appointed to a vacant seat on the council in 2011 after serving on the city’s planning commission for about a year. He was re-elected to several four-year terms after that and served as deputy mayor from 2014 to 2015 and again from 2016 to 2017. Woodard, 70, suffered a heart attack earlier this year but only missed two council meetings as he recovered. Merkel, 37, previously ran unsuccessfully for a council seat in 2017 and 2019. Merkel said he was pleased with the results of the election, which saw him pull in nearly doubled the votes Woodard received. “Obviously, I’m very excited,” he said. “You don’t really know what the numbers are until the vote. I’ve been out there putting in the work. I’ve bee out there talking about issues that really matter to folks.” But Merkel, who describes himself as a Republican, said he’s not completely surprised by the results of the election. He noted that Woodard was the only city council member to vote in favor of a 1 percent property tax increase last year. The city has not taken the allowed 1 percent increase in more than a decade. Merkel said Woodard’s advocacy for the removal of single family home zoning has also been unpopular. “Arne has been one of the most vocal about that,” he said.

Jessica Yaeger

He finds himself at odds with some of the ideas coming from his fellow council members. He said councilwoman Laura Padden has expressed interest in selling park land, which he opposes. He’s also not in favor of the city paying to

Deputy Mayor Rod Higgins and Padden. Merkel’s campaign was almost entirely self-funded, with the exception of a $500 donation from Cascade PAC based in Olympia, which describes itself as a supporter of “well-qualified common sense candidates.” Merkel said he plans to be hyper-focused on Spokane Valley issues and doesn’t want to spend time worrying about political issues that have nothing to do with running the city. “I would align myself with proposals and ideas the people want,” he said. He said many people aren’t pleased with how the city has developed and he believes that developers should be paying for more infrastructure improvements. “You cover the costs you create, and that applies to development,” he said. “These are the things the community cares about, so these are the things I’m worried about.”

Council incumbent Tim Hattenburg, a retired teacher, won his race against challenger Rob Chase with 52.23 percent of the vote. Chase, a conservative Republican who has advocated for breaking off Eastern Washington into the 51st state, previously served as the Spokane County treasurer for eight years and in the state Legislature from 2020 to 2022. Hattenburg, who is affiliated with the Democratic party, said he’s pleased by the clean and friendly race that he and Chase ran even as political extremism becomes more dominant. “I felt good about that,” he said. He said he’s always worked well with the other council members, including Woodard. He said he’s pleased that the voters trusted him enough to reelect him. “I’ve had a very good experience the last four years on the council and I think that showed,” he said. “Our campaign team hit 8,000 doors.”

Yaeger and Rachel Briscoe vied for the seat, with Yaeger winning with over 62 percent of the vote.

Yaeger said she’s not surprised by her win, but didn’t expect to win by such a large margin. “We did about five points better than we expected,” she said. “I’m really happy with it. We had an amazing team and a ton of support. I’m really excited to get on the council and represent the citizens of Spokane Valley.” Yaeger, who was endorsed by Haley and Higgins during her campaign, is the chair of the Spokane County Chapter of Moms for Liberty, a conservative parental rights group founded in the wake of the COVID pandemic that has advocated against mask mandates in schools. Yaeger participated in an antimask protest that shut down a Central Valley School District board meeting in August 2021 when the dozens of protesters who attended the meeting refused to wear masks. At the time a statewide mask rule had been put in place by Governor Jay Inslee. Yaeger said her top concern once she takes her seat on the council will be homelessness. “From a compassionate standpoint, we have to address it,” she said. Meanwhile, she said she plans to keep attending council meetings to monitor what happens between now and when she takes the oath of office. “I trust the current council members to do what they can,” she said. “They’ve been handling things for a few years now.” Yaeger graduated from Central Valley High School and has been a Spokane County Republican Party precinct committee officer since last year. She currently works as an aging specialist for Angel Senior Care and has previously run assisted living facilities.

The Current

Report recommends big increases to Spokane Valley police staff

NEWS

DECEMBER 2023 • 7

By John McCallum

Current correspondent

Spokane Valley’s City Council received a dose of reality at its Nov. 6 meeting in what it means to go 15 years without making police department staffing increases — all while the city saw its population grow from 89,755 in 2010 to 107,325 today. A report on police calls for service and staffing evaluations by national consultant Matrix Consulting Group Ltd. indicated that to meet the increasing number and complexity of calls for service while becoming more proactive in its policing approach, the city will need to hire a total of 29 new officers and civilian personnel. A sizeable chunk of this would take place in the Patrol Unit with 10 new patrol officers — nine officers and one lieutenant — and three in the Traffic Unit — two enforcement officers and one detective — recommended being added. Currently, Spokane Valley’s police force consists of 91 officers dedicated to the city and another 37 commissioned officers shared with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. If fully implemented, the increase would bring the dedicated officer level to 118 — which includes four new school resource officers, eight property and drug crime investigation officers and one homeless services officer. Additionally, the shared services staffing with the county would increase by three — one new officer in major crimes, sex crimes and professional standards. In developing its report, which the city paid $85,000 for, Matrix developed recommendations for new policing strategies after interviewing police staff, analyzing crime stats and workload data from 2022 and reviewing operational structures, budget information and key practices of law enforcement. “What you’re not going to hear today is how to implement those strategies recommended,” deputy

city manager Erik Lamb told the council. Lamb added there was no money provided in the 2024 budget for hiring additional police staffing, and that city staff are working on funding ideas to be presented at a later council meeting. One of the main strategies recommended by Matrix, which the new staffing supports, was increasing the efficiency of patrol officers time by increasing their ability to be more proactive. Currently, the information analyzed shows patrol officers spend about 40% of their time in proactive policing measures like community engagement, crime prevention steps, early intervention and helping to improve quality of life for residents. “With patrol, you’re working on things that have already happened,” Matrix President Richard Grady said. “You’re not working with the community to address things before they happen.” Grady said the study indicated adding positions would help increase the amount of field time officers spend on being proactive to 45%, creating a more positive presence in the community and increasing the feelings of trust and safety. Several of the internal positions would also focus on data collection and analysis, things that would help patrol officers better utilize their time and physical efforts through a formalized field plan. “If deputies are randomly driving around, they’re going to have random results,” Grady said. Staffing increases in other units could also alleviate some of patrol officers workload preventing proactivity, something Lamb said they would consider when determining budgeting strategies. Traffic enforcement and investigations are two such areas, and increases here could provide a

higher degree of specialization and expertise in handling enforcement and solving accident investigations. Specialization and expertise would also extend to additional officers in the Homeless Services and the Behavioral Health units, areas regular patrol officers often don’t have training in how to deal with specific incidents and clients. Additional personnel in the Property and Drug Crimes Unit would help investigate and close more cases, especially those with lesser impact to the community. “These are still important cases for the victims,” Grady said. “We’re not saying investigate everything, but things that impact the community’s feeling of safety.” Of course, the elephant in the council chambers on Nov. 6 was — and will continue to be — how to pay for any implemented staffing increases. Public safety accounts for 33% — almost $35.29 million — of the 2024 budget, and any discussion in increasing staff levels will involve the city as well as other entities such as the Sheriff’s Office and Central Valley School District. The staff report on the presentation also listed consideration of how many officers the city can reasonably expect to hire and train each year, prioritizing areas of greatest need and how implementing some recommendations may impact other recommendations. Opportunities for public input as well as other funding sources will also be examined. Regarding other funding sources, one of those was Measure 1, which would have implemented a 0.2% sales tax over 30 years to pay for public safety, raising over $31 million in 2024 to $95 million in its final year, 2054. Information on the measure stated 60% would be retained by the

county to help pay for an estimated $300 million expansion of the county jail as well as other public safety programs. The rest of the county would receive 40% for public safety programs, with Spokane Valley slated to get 11.0417%. Measure 1 failed at the Nov. 7 ballot box, with 63.32% of voters saying no to the tax increase. Since Spokane Valley contracts with the Sheriff’s Office for police services, salaries and benefits are based on those paid to sheriff’s deputies. A review of the Sheriff’s Office salaries and benefits schedule shows a new officer attending academy training can make an annual salary between $50,876 and $56,201, with entry level deputies ranging between $61,131 to $91,936. Lateral entry officers — those with experience coming from other agencies — begin at $61,131, and increase in a series of nine steps over the next 1 – 25 years of experience, the latter making $91,936. The salary ranges do not include benefits, or additional incentives such as extra percentages for education levels, longevity, specific shifts and units and signing bonuses. Whatever the considerations for implementing the police department staffing recommendations are, it’s likely additional patrol officers will be among the top increases funded. “It’s the one that’s going to impact the community’s perception of safety the most,” Grady with Matrix said. “It’s (public safety) your number one priority,” City Manage John Hohman said in closing, adding implementation strategies would also include recommendations for funding “so we don’t put future city staff and city councils in a similar situation” of needing to make big police staffing increases.

• DECEMBER 2023

NEWS

The Current

Valley in June for sports recruitment settlement with the agrochemical Spokane Valley establishes Monsanto. The and marketing services. The manufacturer 2-kilometer course would be built suit was filed by the city of Long owned by the city and Beach, California, on July 8, 2020, Transportation Benefit District on15.9846.13acresacresowned by Washington and claimed Monsanto was liable

By John McCallum Current contributor

Spokane Valley is charting a new course when it comes to street preservation and maintenance work. At its Oct. 24 meeting, the City Council voted 6-1 to form a Transportation Benefit District (TBD) to handle street funding, joining 114 other cities and towns in Washington state with similar districts. Cities close in population to Spokane Valley, at 107,325, such as Everett (111,337), Yakima (97,012) and Bellingham (93,896) have operated TDBs for several years, with Bellingham creating theirs in 2010. In previous council meetings, city staff outlined current issues in keeping the city’s 1,025 total lane miles — which includes 127 center lane miles of arterials/collectors and 323 center lane miles of local access streets — properly serviced and functioning. Spokane Valley’s Pavement Management Program should spend $16 million annually, $10 million on replacing asphalt and road beds and $6 million on maintenance items to keep streets open and usable such as snow plows, signals, sidewalks and crack repair. Currently, Spokane Valley spends $8 million on both replacement and maintenance, money generated by its annual street wear fee and transfers from the general fund, leaving about $8 million in work that doesn’t get covered.

TBD and the assumption of powers, saying she is against the district’s creation because it will raise taxes on Spokane Valley residents, and the public is already facing an “onerous” tax burden.

Taxing options include instituting a $20 fee on new and annual registrations in the Valley, something Everett and Yakima currently do. The TBD could also levy a sales tax — such as Bellingham’s 0.2% tax — on items purchased in Spokane Valley, a move that would include non-residents helping to pay for local streets and arterials. More funding for cross country course At its Oct. 31 meeting, the City Council unanimously consented to sending a letter to the Spokane County Commissioners requesting the use of the remaining $332,579 in the county’s Retail Car Rental Tax fund to help with its estimated $7 million cross country course project on 62 acres of land north of the Spokane River near Flora Road. At its Sept. 19 meeting, the council agreed to spend $4.4 million from the city’s Lodging Tax Facilities Fund for the project, which is slated to start construction in spring 2024. The construction is in partnership with Spokane Sports, who was given a $300,000 contract with Spokane

State Parks, and would serve youth, middle and high school, collegiate and post-collegiate athletes.

In the letter, the city noted Spokane Sports estimates the course could bring in $12.5 million over 3-5 years in direct economic impact to Spokane Valley as teams and fans would travel to the area for meets between September and January. In the offseason, the complex — which includes a 4,100-square-foot clubhouse, restrooms, concessions and parking facilities — would host “clinics and practice opportunities” as well as other sports. State law allows the rental car sales tax to be used for public sports facilities, including construction and maintenance. According to Spokane County’s budget, the Retail Car Rental sales tax fund is anticipated to have an end of year balance of $382,578. Economic Development Director Mike Basinger told the council if the commissioners honored the city’s request that it would mean the end of year balance would be taken down to $50,000. County budgeting the past two years estimates the fund’s annual revenue at an average of just over $567,000. Monsanto settlement windfall Spokane Valley is the recipient of almost $3.55 million as part of a national class-action lawsuit

The Oct. 24 vote was solely to establish the TDB, with funding mechanisms yet to be decided. “That would be a council decision at a later date,” assistant city manager Erik Lamb said.

Councilwoman Laura Padden was the lone no vote on both creating the

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, PCBs have shown links to cancer, as well as other hormonal and immunological impacts. Spokane Valley, the city of Spokane and Spokane County are three of 2,528 class members joining Long Beach in the suit, claiming the Monsanto products found their way into stormwater systems and water bodies such as the Spokane River. Monsanto settled the suit for $537.5 million on Dec. 28, 2020. The United States District Court of Central California – Western District preliminarily approved the settlement on March 14, 2022. The city of Spokane received $6.7 million in April, which is when the city of Spokane Valley also received its part of the settlement. “There are no restrictions on how the recipient may use that money,” city attorney Kelly Konkright told the council. City’s homeless plan adoption deferred The City Council voted unanimously at its Oct. 31 meeting to defer adoption of the city’s Homeless Action Plan to a later date so those working on the plan can receive additional input. Spokane Valley has been working on its plan since 2021 with the intention of creating a road map to address, prevent and reduce homelessness in the city. As part of the process, staff has been receiving input from a number of individuals and organizations working on homelessness.

A TBD would allow the city to generate income to overcome this shortfall through taxes, fees and other funding measures.

At its Oct. 31 meeting the council voted 6-1 to hold a public hearing and first reading of an ordinance at its Nov. 7 meeting to assume the powers of the TBD, a move that is allowable under state law. Lamb said in doing so, the council simply vests itself with the powers of the TDB, rather than creating a separate governmental entity.

for contamination brought by its products sold under the brand name Aroclor containing polychlorinated biphenyls, PCBs.

Photo by John McCallum PCB contamination found in the Spokane River from Monsanto products have led to receipt of millions of dollars in lawsuit settlement money from the agrochemical producer for the cities of Spokane, Spokane Valley and Spokane County.

The city’s plan is different from a recently adopted 5-year plan dealing with homelessness as part of requirements from the state Department of Commerce allowing Spokane Valley to receive an estimated $640,000 in Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) monies collected by Spokane County on behalf of the city. This money will be used to fund the homeless and housing program, with the city adopting the county’s current 5-year plan for 2024 while it utilizes a homeless task force to create its own plan.

DECEMBER 2023 • 9

The Current

By Bill Gothmann Current Contributor

brought to you by

City Supplies Funding for Senior Meals

Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

Ben Fried is not fretting about being the only returning varsity starter for the West Valley boys’ basketball squad this season. “It’s a good role,” the senior said. “I need to be a leader.” As a junior, Fried averaged 17 points a game and was routinely assigned to guard the opposing team’s best offensive player. He had a season-high 30 points against Shadle Park and was named to the All Greater Spokane League first team. Fried is part of the Hooptown Elite team in the summer and has competed in tournaments across the country. He has played in Hoopfest since the third grade and won a team title in 2021. As part of the WV team, he has served food at Union Gospel Mission each year. Fried maintains a 3.7 grade point average and is part of National Honor Society.

As the 2023-24 Greater Spokane League basketball season dawns, Chloe Deharo is returning as the conference’s top scorer. The West Valley senior averaged nearly 35 points a game last year, including a season and career high of 51 points against Rogers. Deharo has lettered since her freshman year and was a sophomore on the Eagles’ squad that advanced to state in 2022. She was named GSL MVP the last two seasons. In the summer, Deharo is part of Sagebrush Hoops, an Eastern Washington-based team that took third at the most recent Nike Nationals in Chicago. In track, Deharo is a three-year letter-winner in sprints. She maintains a 3.89 grade point average. Deharo says her parents “have supported me in everything I do and always been there for me.” She will continue her academic and basketball pursuits at Northwest Nazarene University.

If you look up “Valley Volunteer” in the dictionary, Gail Bongiovanni will be there. The California native has called this area home since 1980 and volunteered with Valleyfest for the last 35 years, since the event’s beginning. Bongiovanni donates time to a variety of Valleyfest programs, including Cycle Celebration, the parade and Miss Spokane Valley. She is currently vice president of the Valleyfest board. “Gail is a super volunteer who gives generously to many community organizations that support art, culture and community,” said Valleyfest Director Peggy Doering. “Valleyfest has been blessed with her organization skills and willingness to be present as needed.” Bongiovanni has also volunteered with Spokane Valley Arts Council since it was formed and serves as SVAC volunteer coordinator. Bongvioanni is currently president of the Inland Northwest Dance Association and has run Gail’s School of Dance since 1980.

Come visit your Spokane Valley Neighborhood Financial Center located at

615 N Sullivan Road

800-233-2328

Thanks you for all you do in our community

Not for Profit = More for People See what banking is like when people come first. All Pacific NW residents are eligible to join.

becu.org/community Federally insured by NCUA Members Michael F., Matt N., & Christa S.

• DECEMBER 2023

SVFD Report – Oct 2023 Current news sources

Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) crews responded to a total of 2,102 emergency incidents for October 2023. Emergency 1,748

Medical

Fire Suppression

Services 167

Tech Rescue (includes 94 Motor Vehicle Collisions) 111 Other 63 HazMat 10 Wildland Fire

Of Note: • Burn Restrictions have been lifted. Due to the current and forecasted cooler and wetter conditions, restrictions for specified outdoor recreational fires (campfires, fire bowls, and fire pits) have been lifted for the Spokane County and Spokane Metro Area by order of the Spokane Metro Area Fire Marshals. • We continue to emphasize Driving Safely. Turn your headlights on. Schools are in session. The holidays are here. The weather is changing. Daylight hours are shorter. Let’s keep our community safe together. • Spokane Valley Fire Department will hold its Annual Holiday Open House Saturday, December 2 Station 6, 6306 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley, 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Incident October 3, 2023 Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to reported apartment fire in the 10000 block of E. Main in Spokane Valley. Initial dispatch to call was at 5:49 a.m. and crews arrived almost immediately as the apartment complex was one block north of Spokane Valley Fire Station #1. All occupants evacuated the apartment prior to fire department arrival. One occupant of the fire involved apartment met with the AMR ambulance crew upon their arrival and was treated and transported non-emergent to area hospital for treatment of burn type injuries that occurred while evacuating the apartment.

NEWS

Initial reports dispatched the incident as working fire and first arriving command unit upgraded fire to 2nd alarm due to commercial type structure with multiple occupants and potential for fire spread to adjoining units bringing more resources to the fire.

upgraded the fire to a working fire (11W) which dispatched more crews to the scene. Valley Engine 2 (VE2) was on scene in a matter of minutes and found the front of the home fully engulfed with one person attempting to fight the fire with a garden hose.

A total of 15 Fire Departments units responded comprised of 2 ladder companies, 10 Fire Engines and 3 Command Vehicles. The Fire crews entered the fire unit quickly and contained the fire to original apartment. There was smoke and water damage to two adjacent units that are currently unoccupiable due to the damage. Unfortunately, two animals were found deceased in the fire unit. The Red Cross was called and is aiding the displaced occupants with finding housing.

Upgraded to a 2-alarm fire, adding even more resources, crews began actively attacking the fire while performing a search for the two people reportedly still inside. Within minutes, both occupants (two children) were located and removed from the burning home with life saving measures started. The onduty Battalion Chief confirms both children tragically did not survive.

The quick call to 911 and immediate response by SVFD kept the fire from spreading to adjoining apartments and throughout the structure. The fire was quickly contained and put out without any injuries to Firefighters. TotalThe Response Summary Truck fire is by currently investigation.

under

SVFD reminds everyone to establish and review exit or escape plans for their home or residence. People living in apartments should be familiar with the exit routes of the apartment complex as there may be multiple routes and your initial exit route could be blocked by fire. Incident October 30, 2023 Just after 2:48 Monday morning, Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responded to a 911 call on the 9800 block of East Dalton Avenue. The call came in as a house fire with two occupants possibly still inside. Incoming crews could see dark smoke and immediately Response locations and totals

“This morning is a tragedy for this family, for our community, and for our Firefighters,” said SVFD Fire Chief Frank Soto Jr. “It is times like this that remind us to cherish each moment we have with our loved ones. As we move into colder temperatures and the holidays, please be as safe as possible with electrical outlets, holiday decorations, space heaters, candles, anything that can start a fire. And, if a fire occurs, call 911 immediately so we can get there as quickly as possible.” One adult male and an SVFD Firefighter were transported to the hospital for medical attention with non-life-threatening injuries. Two dogs were also lost in the fire. The home is a complete loss, and the Red Cross is now assisting. SVFD investigators were dispatched to determine the cause of the fire, which remains under investigation. SVFD received automatic aid from Spokane County Fire District

The Current

9 (SCFD9) and Spokane Fire Department (SFD). The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office was also scene to help with traffic control. Avista was called to secure the gas lines and shut off power to the home. SVFD would like to remind everyone if you see smoke or fire to call 911 immediately. Incident Update October 31, 2023 Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) Investigators have determined the cause of yesterday’s tragic house fire in Millwood. Multiple investigators from SVFD spent yesterday and today evaluating the scene from a fatal 2-alarm fire on East Dalton Ave. The Investigator Determination cites improper disposal of cigarettes as the cause of the fire. “The most important aspect of a fire SVFD wants our community to know, always get everyone out of the house right away and then call 911,” said SVFD Deputy Fire Marshal Brett Anderson. “Do not go back into the home and do not take anything with you. Evacuate the home immediately leaving everything behind.” As we head into the holiday season with colder temperatures on the way, SVFD would like to provide some safety tips in case of a fire: • Always get everyone out of the house right away before calling 911. •

Leave everything behind.

• Do NOT go back into the home. • Have an escape plan with 2 ways out. •

Practice the escape plan.

• Make sure to have working smoke detectors. How to properly dispose of cigarettes: • Make sure to use a metal or non-flammable container. • Fill it with enough water to submerge the cigarette. • Do not have it next to a structure or combustible materials. If you live within the Spokane Valley Fire Department Fire District and want help with your fire escape plan, call 509.928.1700 and schedule an appointment for an in-home evaluation.

DECEMBER 2023 • 11

The Current

2023

Eat, Shop,

Be Merry and

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This guide has been made with our community in mind. We have made a tradition of gathering as many offerings as we can from the heart of our community, small businesses. This year we have rounded up more than ever for you. We hope that you will utilize these exceptional small businesses to choose one of a kind options this holiday season and all year long. Let these establishments guide you to“Eat, Shop and Be Merry” this holiday season. Ben Wick, Publisher

Your Guide to Support Local this Holiday PRESENTING SPONSOR:

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

You Can Read The Greater Spokane Valley Current Online!

DECEMBER 2023 • 13

The Current

Max at Mirabeau Restaurant and Lounge 509-922-6252, 1100 N Sullivan, Spokane Valley As the holidays approach, MAX at Mirabeau offers Family Dinner Packs To-Go Menu seven days a week! These dinners feed 4 to 6 people and are available from 4pm to 8pm daily. Please order by 8pm the day before pick-up. Available Curbside, To-Go or by Delivery!

Ferraro’s 509-928-2303, 11204 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Family owned and operated Italian restaurant. Very family friendly. Take out - curbside pick up we are masked up and sanitized to serve you in a safe environment. Family style dinners (feed 4-5) off the mama classic entrées and take n bakes still available!

LaLozy 509-924-3023, 13917 E Trent, Spokane Valley If you haven’t yet discovered this unique establishment, get ready! Although they look like just a coffee shop, they also serve fresh, made from scratch, Asian food that you will sure enjoy and be coming back for more. Since discovering this place last year it has become a staple for us. All of their dishes are made to order, using their signature sauces that are made from scratch, using NO MSG. And the couple that owns the establishment is so nice every time.

Fares to Share

We have gone in search of tasty morsels to tantalize your taste buds this holiday season when you need a break from the kitchen. Here are some local establishments ready to serve you something delicious.

Longhorn Barbecue

The Pentagon Bistro 509-315-8612, 1400 N Meadowwood Ln, Liberty Lake An American bistro with an foreigners touch! Steaks, seafood and small plates! Cozy and friendly atmosphere that is a must try!

Craft and Gather 509-290-5141, 4403 S Dishman Mica, Spokane Valley The clubhouse of the old Painted Hills Golf course brings you approachable food that is a step beyond your expectations. Pick-up and delivery options available.

509-924-9600, 2315 N Argonne, Spokane Valley A longtime family favorite in Spokane Valley. Their sandwiches (beef, turkey, ham, or pork) can be eaten in the restaurant or picked up and taken back to your home to enjoy. Don’t forget their juicy steaks and yummy ribs too!

Conley’s Place Restaurant 509-924-5411, 12622 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Offering American fares with an Irish twist. Whether you visit them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner you are sure to leave with a full, happy stomach. Check out our facebook for specials. Pick-up options available.

River City Pizza 509-922-6322, 4707 N Harvard Rd, Otis Orchards 509-255-7660, 17018 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Homemade dough, fresh mozzarella and classic ingredients. Try one of their signature pizzas or make one all your own. What’s not to love! Sit in or delivery available

• DECEMBER 2023

Fares to Share

Shopping Tap Out

The Current

When you’ve finished for the day and need a little extra relaxation.

Trailbreaker Cider 509-598-8927, 2204 N Madison St, Liberty Lake We have drink options for everyone including our 24 taps of cider, beer rotation and wine. Plus amazing food and fun atmosphere for your night out.

Snow Eater Brewery 509-862-6954, 2325 N Mckinzie Ln, Liberty Lake Where beer and adventure meet. Gather and celebrate in the kid-friendly and dog-friendly tap room. All are welcome.

Fujiyama Japanese Steak House 509-903-0888, 21801 E Country Vista Dr, Liberty Lake

Authentic Japanese hibachi style dining. Not only is the food delicious, but the experience is worth checking off your list. Offering take-out options.

Millwood Brewing Company 509-368-9538, 9013 E Frederick, Millwood

Millwood Brewing began as a simple idea by a guy who had a passion for really good craft beer. It has become more than just a place that makes beer, it’s where friends meet.

509-710-3426, 11027 E Sprague, Spokane Valley

Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 11am till 8pm. We have all your favorite BBQ and Sides, Mixed Drinks, Margaritas, and Beer available for Carry Out and/or curbside. Call or text pre-order 7 days a week.

Arbor Crest Winery 509-927-9463, 4705 N Fruit Hill Dr, Spokane Our Tasting Room & Kitchen is open all year round! Come enjoy new meals and wines added to our menu this winter. Tasting Room & Kitchen is open daily from 12:00 - 5:00PM

The Boneyard 509-435-6773, 17905 E Appleway, Spokane Valley The Boneyard serves craft cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks featuring our syrups and drink mixes. This all age lounge also serves local beer and wine, along with offering light eats to share.

Smokeridge BBQ

TT’s Old Iron Brewery 509-919-4798, 4110 S Bowdish, Spokane Valley 509-413-1417, 1950 N Harvest Parkway, Liberty Lake We’re proud to offer the highest quality barbecue and beers brewed onsite. From our family to yours, we put lots of love and careful attention in each item. We hope you enjoy our work as much as we enjoy bringing it to you.

Barlows 509-924-1446, 1428 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake

A favorite since opening in 2009, enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in their friendly atmosphere.

DECEMBER 2023 • 15

The Current

Pint House Burgers and Brews 509-242-3650, 9214 E Mission, Spokane Valley The second location for owners Josh Blair and business partner Tom Griffiths opened earlier this year. They have remodeled, so stop by to see what they have to offer!

Caruso’s 509-474-0254, 2314 N Argonne Rd, Spokane Valley Where fresh is a way of life. Bread and pizza dough made, from scratch, daily in our kitchen. Fresh, crisp vegetables. Highest quality meat and cheese that we can buy. Stop by and taste the difference fresh makes.

True Legends 509-795-1243, 1803 N Harvard Rd, Liberty Lake Now serving a new burger menu! “Legendary Movie Villians”. We offer curbside pickup and delivery. Visit www.TrueLegendsGrill.com and place your order.

Rancho Viejo 509-927-8428, 14201 E Sprague, Spokane Valley Enjoy a bit of Mexican? Try this family friendly locally owned establishment. Great for large groups. Friendly service with yummy choices. Don’t worry they will let you take home the left overs.

Ambrosia 509-919-4798, 9211 E Montgomery, Spokane Valley Great food, fine wine, and special friends… what else is there? Explore our creative menu.

Hallett’s Market and Café 509-926-4076, 14109 E Sprague, Spokane Valley

A longtime Valley favorite for shopping and eating. We will still be OPEN for Take Out, Curbside service and Safe Shopping. Our store is load with Holiday Gifts, Home Décor and Northwest foods. Don’t forget to pick up some goodies for those on your holiday list while you are there!

Stockwell’s Chill n Grill 509-474-9074, 3319 N Argonne Rd, Spokane Valley Stockwells is a community inspired, all inclusive hangout for people of all ages to enjoy. We seek to provide a safe and fun environment geared towards unforgettable experiences.

Fares to Share

Mongolian BBQ 509-891-7237, 15416 E Sprague, Spokane Valley Family owned and operated, roomy establishment. Go in, choose all your own fruit, vegetables, meats, noodles, and sauces. Watch them cook it up and then enjoy!

Crimson Hearth 509-598-8927, 11003 E Sprague, Spokane Valley A Eurpoean inspired restaurant specializing in open hearth cooking. Many of the recipes are made-from-scratch and have been passed down generations.

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

Fares to Share

D D

Azteca 509-228-9661, 14700 E. Indiana St. Sp: 1080, Spokane Valley We love our customers and our employees are treated like family. They, in turn, treat you like family.

Dave’s Bar and Grill 509-926-9640, 12124 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley The Valley’s original neighborhood bar and grill. Serving the Spokane area for 28 years!!.

Le Brothers 509-928-9112, 12012 E Sprague Ave Ste 1, Spokane Valley Searching for good Pho search no further.

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Shogun 509-534-7777, 20 N Raymond Rd, Spokane Valley Shogun is a family owned restaurant which has served the community since 1991. Here you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine with a professionally trained Hibachi Chef. Offering lunch and take-out options.

Papa Murphys - Liberty Lake 509-926-7272, 1318 North Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake $11.99 2-Topping Pan Add your two favorite toppings to our Large Pan Pizza. Additional toppings will be charged. Available through 12/31/2023

The Otis Restaurant Dos Amigos 509-891-6555, 12119 E Trent Ave, Spokane Valley Authentic Mexican Food Opened Monday-Saturday, Family Owned, Family Orientated, Amazing Friendly Service.

The Rock Bar & Grill 509-919-3926, 13921 E Trent Ave, Spokane Valley Friendly neighborhood bar with great food and drinks

509-381-5956, 21902 E Wellesley Ave, Otis Orchards

If you are looking for new foods to try and absolutely love new gastronomic discoveries, visit us!

Jenny’s Cafe 509-928-8055, 9425 E Sprague, Spokane Valley American style food ranging from breakfast items to sandwiches and desserts. Just down right good food. Vegetarian and gluten free options available. Offering take-out only

o the

DECEMBER 2023 • 17

The Current

December Class Schedule Dec 1st: DIY Wreath Class Dec 2nd: Spin the Wheel Saturday Fresh DIY Wreaths Dec 4th: Fresh Flower Workshop Dec 5th: Toddler Time Wednesday Dec 6th: Kid Craft Wednesday Dec 7th: Teen Craft Thursday Dec 8th: Fresh Flower Workshop Dec 9th: Spin the Wheel Saturday Dec 11th: Fresh Flower Workshop Dec 12th: Toddler Time Wednesday Dec 13h: Kid Craft Wednesday Dec 14th: Teen Craft Thursday Dec 15th: Fresh Flower Workshop Dec 16th: Spin the Wheel Saturday Dec 18th: Fresh Flower Workshop Dec 19th: Toddler Time Wednesday Dec 20th: Christmas Centerpieces Kid Crafts Dec 21st: Christmas Centerpieces Teen Craft Thursday Dec22nd: Christmas Centerpieces Dec 23rd: Spin the Wheel Saturday

Flowers & Gifts Taking orders for holiday decoration and centerpieces now!

Santa is coming! Small Business Saturday 11/25/2023

1326 N Liberty Lake Rd

509-922-6300

Eat, Shop & Be Merry this Holiday Season at

Halletts Market & Café, Inc

Holiday hours start Nov. 26th M-F 10 am - 5 pm, Sat 9 am - 3 pm

14109 E. Sprague #2, Spokane Valley, WA 99216

509-926-4076 www.halletts.com

facebook.com/hallettsmarket

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

Come See us!

SUN - THURS 11 AM - 10 PM FRI - SAT 11 AM - 11 PM

Happy Holidays!

Thank you for your love of our restaurants BUY $100 GIFT CARD(S) AND RECEIVE OUR DELICIOUS WINE IS FREE

VIEW MENU AT WHITEHOUSEGRILL.COM

WITH YOUR SUPPORT WE CAN REOPEN

DECEMBER 2023 • 19

The Current

Local Gift Guide

When you go out shopping this holiday season check out these local businesses and support members of our community while finding unique, eclectic, personal or elegant gifts for anyone on your shopping list. 1.The Bike HUB

509-443-4005 / 509-215-5909 12505 E Sprague Ave. #101, Spokane Valley 2210 N Madson Rd, Liberty Lake A friendly, full-service bicycle shop in the heart of Spokane Valley. Go in and let the friendly staff help you, or browse their catalog online.

2.Uncle’s Books and Games 509-891-7620 Located within the Spokane Valley Mall Locally owned shop featuring board games, puzzles, books and more. Online and pick-up options available.

HG 4

3.Adorkable Flowers and Gifts 509-922-6300 1326 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake Purchase custom or prearranged flowers, candy bouquets, potted plants, collectibles, local artist work, and more.

4. Our Place Vendor Mall 509-868-0864 18309 East Appleway, Spokane Valley Treasures galore in this little store. Antiques, collectibles, handcrafted items, jewelry, clothing.

5. The Bohemian 509-309-3236 12019 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley A collection of unique refurbished and handcrafted items ranging from decor and furniture to clothing and skin care. Roam through and find some treasures.

6. Elz Tastes & Tea Market

509-315-4036 328 N Sullivan, Spokane Valley Specialize in an array of of herbs, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and specialty loose leaf teas sure to please any conesuer. These first tea sets are a perfect gift for any aspiring tea drinker.

7. Hallett’s Marketplace and Cafe

509-926-4076 14109 E Sprague Ave, #2, Spokane Valley The marketplace section of this unique business offers a generous makeup of soup mixes, jams, candles, beverages, dips and more- all made in the Pacific Northwest.

8. Irv’s Rock and Gifts

509-924-5464 11907 E Trent Ave, Spokane Valley For over 50 years Irv’s has been educating the community on the intricacies of jewelry, rocks, stones and gems. see specials and options on facebook.

9. Pawpular Companions 509-927-8890 21801 E Country Vista Dr. #111, Liberty Lake The owners, Carl and Mara, and their staff are friendly and knowledgeable and take the time to help you make choices that are best for you and your furry family.

10. Silver Bow Fly Shop 509-924-9998 13210 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley

With a goal of “making fish nervous,” this business focuses on carrying gear that is tried and true for all those who wish to try the art of fly fishing.

11. Collected Goods 509-609-6435 1314 N Liberty Lake Road, Liberty Lake Home Decor - Gifts - Clothing!

• DECEMBER 2023

Gift Guide

12. Plush 509-892-0826 1330 N liberty lake rd, Liberty Lake

The Current

We are a full service salon..

13. Appleway Florist and Gifts 509-924-5050 11006 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley This longtime valley business has a large selection of candles, plush, balloons and gift items to choose from along with their beautiful floral arrangements.

14. Bruttles 509-228-9509 12609 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley Original soft peanut brittle, salt water taffy, caramels, butter toffee and chocolate bark. Holiday themed gifts ready for quick pick up.

15. Brickhouse Massage & Coffee Bar 509-891-1999

14222 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley We have the spa package to fit your needs. Give us a call to schedule your perfect BrickHouse spa day today!

16. Lorraine Fine Jewelry

509-309-3236 21950 E Country Vista Dr Suite 600, Liberty Lake Your new neighborhood jewelry store with unique custom pieces and some standard favorites.

17. My Favorite Things 208-773-4110 503 E Seltice Way, Post Falls

North Idaho’s premier vendor mall specializing in the interesting and unusual! See their facebook page for sales and special events.

18. Pine Street Market 509-263-2232 12107 E Sprague, Spokane Valley

Find unique gifts from over 100 vendors featuring antiques, vintage items, handmade, and one of a kind.

19. The Great NW Vendor Mall 509-413-1369 6206 E Trent, Spokane Valley Start your Christmas shopping off right this year by shopping local. So may one of a kind treasures! We have vintage items, used items, new items, and hand made items!

20. Big Bear Chocolates 509-891-2662 Located near the food court in the Spokane Valley Mall Here you can find delicacies ranging from fudge and chocolates to caramel apples and ice cream.

21.Liberty Lake Wine Cellars 509-255-9205 23110 E Knox Ave, Liberty Lake Liberty Lake Wine Cellars is a boutique winery. All wine production takes place on-site from crush, to fermentation, to barrel aging, to bottling and storage.

22. Moon Soul Boutique 509-703-3897 12109 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley A beautiful, creative, inspired, vintage soul, clothing, gifts, crystals, and much more boutique!

23. The Plant Farm 14208 E 4th Ave, Spokane Valley Visit The Plant Farm® for locally grown plants, flowers, and home decor.

24. Gretchen’s Treasure Trove 509-482-0419 12415 E 1st Ave, Spokane Valley Expert hair care and guilt-free retail therapy.

DECEMBER 2023 • 21

The Current

gifts, gifts, ornaments, ornaments, clothing, clothing, decor, decor, sweet sweet treats treats & & more more 1314 N Liberty Lake Road Liberty Lake follow us on fb @shop.collected.goods

SPOKANE VALLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Open Hearts Hearts •• Open Open Minds Minds •• Open Open Doors Doors Open

9:00 AM Traditional Service 9:00 AM Traditional SundayService School SundayNursery School 10:45 AM YouthNursery Group

20 20

10:45 AM Youth Group

Christmas Eve

9:00 AM Traditional Service 9:00 AM Traditional with BellService Choir Bell Choir 8:00 PM with Christmas Eve 8:00 PM Christmas Eve Candle Light Service

Candle Light Service

Experience Christmas Experience Christmas

with Rev. Alissa Amestoy

with Rev. Alissa Amestoy 115 N. Raymond RD. Spokane Valley www.spokanevalleychurch.org 115 N. Raymond RD. Spokane Valley

www.spokanevalleychurch.org 509-924-7262

509-924-7262

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

DECEMBER 2023 • 23

The Current

facebook.com/509metalworks We specialize in the following services: business signs, small fabrication jobs, customized metal art,and more. Contact us to get started on your order!

26. Simply Northwest 509-927-8206 11806 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley They offer the ability to choose, or have them create, unique gifts for any family member or friend this holiday season and all year round. Shop online at simplynorthwest.com.

27. Tracy Jewelers 509-893-2929 106 N Evergreen, Spokane Valley Family owned since 1950, they stock a broad selection of diamond and colored gemstone jewelry along with offering jewelry repair, custom design, restoration and appraisal services.

28. Fleet Feet

29 27

509-309-2174 13910 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley Fleet Feet Sports Spokane is dedicated to supporting Spokane’s running and fitness enthusiast communities by providing quality training programs, educational opportunities and the right footwear, apparel, and supplements to meet your needs. Let us find the best insoles for your arch height, current fitness goals and injury history.

29.Latah Creek Winery

509-309-3345 13030 E Indiana Ave, Spokane Valley Since 1982 they have continued to blaze new trails in winemaking, producing new varieties each season along with their acclaimed lineup of established wines. Stop by and check out their wine of the month.

30. The Fern Plant Shop 509-850-4921 2210 N. Madson Rd Suite C, Liberty Lake

Fern is a unique botanically inspired shopping experience. Find high quality houseplants, modern pots & thoughtful gifts. Grab a Terrarium for for all the plant lovers on your list!!

31. Cutco 509-701-2130 Tara has been a representative for Cutco for the past 14 years. Cutco is American made kitchen products that are guaranteed forever. Go to her website for more information, www.bladesbytara.com

32. Rebel Junk 360-689-5622 4102 S Bowdish, Spokane Valley

Rebel Junk is a vintage flea market with vendors who incorporate Vintage, Shabby Chic, Cottage, Farmhouse, Industrial, Antiques, Pottery Barn Style, Online shopping available at rebeljunk.com. 10-5 Mon. - Sat. Curbside pickup, shipping and delivery available.

33. Trovato Interiors 509-217-6646 9919 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley

Norwalk Custom Furniture, Bramble, Aidan Gray, Home Accents and Accessories. Special holiday touches to make your home truly magical this season.

34. The Healing Boutique 509-475-4529 9803 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley A Healing Boutique of Modalities from around the World! We will be sharing tools for healing through sound vibrations, Crystals, Oracle cards, books, essential oils, tapestry and more. Check out their facebook for monthly calendar of events.

35. Sarah Hamilton FACE 509-210-0228 1334 N Whitman Ln, Suite 210, Liberty Lake Specializes in anti-aging and skin rejuvenation for all ages. Offers and extensive selection of treatments and products. Call or visit to find the perfect gift.

Gift Guide

25. 509 MetalWorks

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

Gift Guide

36. Ramax 509-928-1222 12411 E Empire Ave, Spokane Valley

Ramax offers many types of personalized gifts for the holidays. Shop in person, curbside pickup, or delivery.

37. Sculptured Gardens 509-290-6866 15614 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley Locally owned and operated, Sculptured Gardens is conveniently located in the heart of Spokane Valley, Washington. We pride ourselves on offering superior customer service, highquality gardening supplies, healthy and beautiful plants, and unique gift items.

38. Spokandy 509-624-1969, 1412 W. Third Ave., Spokane Chocolates made from tradition, these are sure to find a part to play in yours. For over 100 years this company has been providing us with Murphys, mints, caramels, nut clusters and other treats. For your convenience, place your order and have it delivered to your door.

39. Side Hustle Syrup

509-435-6773 17905 E Appleway, Spokane Valley Side Hustle is a locally owned and operated company providing exceptional syrups made in the Pacific Northwest.

40. Mulberry Market 248-462-4228 17325 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Gift, wares, and decor curated with local vendors and artists. Shop for unique items or join a class. See www. mulberrymarketco.com for more.

41. Reece Boutique 509-868-0846 21951 E Country Vista Dr Ste B, Liberty Lake Just over a year ago the second their second location opened in Liberty Lake. They strive to do their best to provide you with an extraordinary shopping experience. Stop by for clothing, permanent jewelry options, and other unique options.

42. Parks Place Plants 509-413-2770 1510 N Argonne Rd Suite H, Spokane Valley It’s Always Happy Hour At Our Soil Bar! Locally woman owned houseplants and snack bar..

43. GoChuckle https://www.gochuckle.com/ A love of baking shows prompted a local family to create a game, The Hasty Baker. Easy to play with some strategy and interactive elements. Made in Spokane Valley

44. Jemma Lane 509-321-2330 11703 E. Sprague Ave. Suite B3, Spokane Valley Jema Lane Boutique is a women’s clothing store with something for everyone, sizes XS-3X.

45. Elsie Lane Boutique 509-939-5939 100 N Houk Road, Spokane Valley IOD, Wise Owl Paint, DIY Paint, Miss Lillian’s, Stencils, Découpage Papers, Furniture, Art and More!

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4:30pm to 8:30pm

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

Holiday Desserts

Holiday Desserts Why not take something off your list this year to give you some extra time to share with friends and family? Here are some excellent desserts that you can pick -up or order last minute to finish off your holiday table with the same tradition and flair, but without all the time and clean-up. We hope you will try out these tasty treats this holiday season.

Conley’s 12622 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley (509) 924-5411

Crabby Mourning Bakery crabbymourningbakery.com (509) 953-3617 Follow their facebook for specials!

International Coffee and Bakery 18209 E Appleway, Spokane Valley (509) 321-7479 Take out available

Desserts by Sara 10502 E Montgomery Dr., Ste 3, Spokane Valley (509) 922-6039 Can order online

Just American Desserts 213 S University Rd., Spokane Valley (509) 927-2253 Menu available on their website. Call to order. Sweet Frostings Located in Spokane Valley Mall (509) 381-5927

DECEMBER 2023 • 27

The Current

Sun, Mon CLOSED Tue, Th 11 AM - 10 PM Wed, Fri, Sat 11 AM - 2 AM

3319 N. ARGONNE RD Arcade • Kids Eat Free Thursdays

Shop our collection of exquisite nativity scenes from around the world! You are also invited to join us for a special nativity event on November 25th from 2-8 PM. We’ll have live music, a live nativity, and a free gift per family (while supplies last).

Over 150 options! Nativities as as $2.99

low

11811 E 1st Ave STE 2 Spokane Valley, WA 99206 | Mon - Sat: 10 AM - 6 PM

Kids Eat Free Thursdays Arcade

3319 N. ARGONNE RD

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

We have something special for everyone on your list!

LA ST TH MIN AT UT SP E G EC IFT IAL ID SE E A NIO FO R R

Spokane Valley Senior Center

Share the joy of the season with your 50+ friends and family members with a gift certificate for a one year membership to Spokane Valley Senior Center. 2426 N Discovery Place Spokane Valley, WA 99216 Hours: 9 AM - 3:30 PM

509-926-1937 $25 Individual / $45 Couple Now accepting credit card!

RED OAK BARBERSHOP

We’re a traditional Barbershop with over 40 years of experience. Our barbers worked in award winning shops, Spokane to CDA. We believe in lasting relationships with our guests. Locally Owned and operated our goal is to give back to our community. Open 7 days a week we’re always available for you Liberty Lake.

Book Online or call the shop Libertylakebarber.com 509-939-0738

$5 off

Your first service. Call or go online to schedule with us!

2210 N Madson St, Liberty Lake, WA 99019

509-927-8206 Holiday Hours Monday through Saturday 9-6PM and Sunday 10-4PM

Shop with us online or in person with a cup of hot apple cider while you shop!

11806 E. Sprague Ave. Spokane Valley, WA, 99206

www.simplynorthwest.com We deliver locally and ship nationwide

DECEMBER 2023 • 29

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Rise Espresso & Dough 1201 N Barker, Spokane Valley (509) 924-5129

Yoke’s Fresh Market 1233 N Liberty Lake Rd, Liberty Lake (509) 927-0300

Celebrations 315 S Sullivan, Spokane Valley (509) 315-5973 Stop by or take out available

Happy Cake 1312 N Mullan, Spokane Valley (509) 924-8455 Can order online

Sweet Annies Artisan Creamery

1948 N. Harvest Parkway, Spokane Valley (509) 381-5469 Call or stop by to order Bake my Day 18123 E Appleway, Spokane Valley

(509) 270-9573 Call in advance to order

Just Chillin’ 1322 N Liberty Lake Rd., Liberty Lake (509) 413-1615 Call or stop by to order

Blissful Whisk 1612 N Barker, Spokane Valley (509) 242-3189 Open for take-out. Call to order

Holiday Desserts

al !

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

SPOKANE’S PREMIER HOLIDAY ATTRACTION TITLE SPONSOR

November 28 - December 10 Presented by

Historic Davenport Hotel & River Park Square spokanesymphonyassoc.org

NONPROFIT SHOWCASE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1ST | 11:00AM - 2:00PM | CENTERPLACE

Join us and enjoy learning about the inspiring work being done by our 40 featured nonprofit organizations and how you can get involved and support their work. This event is free for anyone to attend. Learn more at spokanevalleychamber.org

UNDERWRITING SPONSORS

HOSPITALITY SPONSOR

DECEMBER 2023 • 31

The Current

Santa is Coming to Town...

and here is where you can find him

SPOKANE VALLEY MALL SPOKANE VALLEY WINTER MARKET Times are available from now until December Friday, Dec. 15, from 3 – 7 p.m. and Saturday, 24. Walk-ups are available. Dec. 16 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. CenterPlace Regional Event Center West Lawn GRINCHMAS PARTY Plaza 2426 N Discovery Pl. Friday Dec. 8, 4:30-7pm Find gifts from local small businesses and The Plant Farm 14208 E 4th Ave, Spokane Valley vendors selling holiday wares. Don’t miss a free is hosting a fun holiday party with a Grinchmas photo opportunity with Santa on Saturday! themed evening. You’ll be able to meet the Learn more at SpokaneValleyWA.gov/668. Grinch and enjoy a Whoville wonderland. Cost is $25 per person, limited tickets available. HOLIDAY PARTY WITH KRAMPUS AND ROCK & ROLL SANTA SKATE WITH SANTA AT ROLLER VALLEY! Saturday Dec. 2 4 pm - 7 pm Sat Dec. 2, 3pm Free Event where you can Meet Krampus and Santa will be dressed up and roller skating for Rock & Roll Santa at the best Holiday Party of exercise from 3-6pm. Enjoy an afternoon taking the season. Spokane Gallery and Spokane Magical laps around the rink floor. Moot bring you a family fun event with Hot Cocoa Celebration of Lights Tree Lighting and Music and great photo ops! Don’t forget about SPOKANE VALLEY TREE LIGHTING the Vendors! We welcome Mother Bears Bakery Friday, Dec. 1, at 6 p.m. and Taven’s Fairy Treasures in our holiday vendor Spokane Valley City Hall 10200 E Sprague Ave. row. Meet either or both of these Holiday icons Enjoy a festive holiday tree lighting event with and get some awesome Holiday Photos! music, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa.

Brought to you by LCM

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Saturday, Dec. 2, with mealtimes at 8 a.m., 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. CenterPlace Regional Event Center 2426 N Discovery Pl. The $5 per person ticket includes a warm pancake breakfast, crafts, games and a visit with Santa. CHRISTMAS WITH SANTA Friday December 1, 7 pm Broadway Elementary 11016 E Broadway Ave, Spokane Valley Tipp Monroe community center hosts breakfast with santa. BREAKFAST WITH SANTA December 16 9:30 am - 11:30 am 16801 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Bring the littles for a morning of fun! Take a picture with Santa (with your own camera), have a nice breakfast and enjoy the crafts and games! Cost $5 per person, 10 and under free!

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

Go with the Best, RPM Express

Go with the Best, RPM Express Valley YMCA, Get a glimpse of summer

Located at 2421 N Discovery Place. This 48,000 sq ft facility 18811 E. Appleway Ave has amenities from Family Day Programs and Aquatics 18811 E. Appleway Ave (lessons, open swim, and jacuzzi), climbing wall, and workout facilities. You don’t have to be a member to utilize Spokane Spokane Valley, Valley, WA WA 99016 99016 /thesports facility. Day passes are $35 per family. Sometimes it just

Valley YMCA, Get a glimpse of summer

(509) 443-5408

Mon, Tue, Tue, Mon, Thu & Fri: 77 am am – – 77 pm pm Thu & Fri: Wed: am – – 66 pm pm Wed: 77 am Sat & Sun: 8 am – 7 pm Sat & Sun: 8 am – 7 pm

www.rpmexpresswash.com

www.rpmexpresswash.com Manager Special

Manager Special

Come ask us about our offers Come ask us about our offers or Premium Membership

or Premium Membership

Located at 2421 N Discovery Place. This 48,000 sq ft facility has amenities from Family Day Programs and Aquatics (lessons, open swim, and jacuzzi), climbing wall, and workout / sports facilities. You don’t have to be a member to utilize the facility. Day passes are $35 per family. Sometimes it just worth getting escaping the winter weather even for a day. worth getting escaping the winter weather even for a day.

Mica Moon Moon Zip Zip Tours Tours & & Arial Arial Park Park Mica

23403 E E Mission Mission Ave Ave #111, #111, Liberty Liberty Lake Lake 23403 Choose between No Ordinary Zip Line for $105 to $115; Tree top Choose between No Ordinary Zip Line for $105 to $115; Tree top adventure $49 to $59. The math is simple but the choice is hard adventure $49 to $59. The math is simple but the choice is hard and may get you thinking about needing to do both. Discounts and may get you thinking about needing to do both. Discounts for groups of 10 people or more. for groups of 10 people or more.

Swing Lounge, Indoor Golf

Located at 3808 N Sullivan Rd #103. Swing Lounge, Indoor Golf Utilizing the TrackMan

technology, you can play onRd iconic with courses Located at 3808 N Sullivan #103.courses Utilizing the120 TrackMan available, keep playing through the winter weather, get a technology, you can play on iconic courses with 120 courses lesson, or even a golf league. minutes of Trackman available, keep join playing through the30winter weather, get a Tee Time for $20 (a golfer can complete 18 holes in about 1 hour) lesson, or even join a golf league. 30 minutes of Trackman Tee or provide Time for $20 (a golfer can complete 18 holes in about 1 hour) or provide

DECEMBER 2023 • 33

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

CHARLES FLETCHER DAN GRIFFITH CALLIE MCKINNEY-CABE

STARRING ALEXIS MEEKER GATIEH NACARIO ANDREA OLSEN

DREW OLSEN DARNELLE PRESTON MARNIE RORHOLM

MICHAEL RORHOLM LANDON TOTH

FEATURING

THE PINETONES

DIRECTED BY HEATHER BROWN, PONDEROSA ELEMENTARY

Jump For Joy, Bouncy Fun for those under 5ft tall

Located at 15310 E. Marietta Ave Ste. 1 Open Jump is generally available from 9:30 AM - 7 PM 7 days a week, though we do shut down for Private Parties which can be after 5 on the weekdays, or any time on Sat. or Sun. Call us if planning on being here on the weekends or after 5 PM on the weekdays. Prices start at $10.50/hr Punch Cards available - $86 + tax for 10 jump sessions

DAVID AND CHRISTINA LYNCH

REEDS KEN BURGER BRANDON CAMPBELL CRAIG CATLETT SHEILA MCCALLUM MERILEE UPDIKE

TRUMPETS WILLIAM BERRY TERRY JONES BRENDAN MCMURPHY BRIAN PLOEGER

TROMBONES ERRECK CONLEY MARC HOUDAYER CHRIS POOLE TIM SANDFORD

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

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

Spokane Valley Summer Theatre, A Big Band Christmas

Available the 15th to 17th and price is $44 per adult. Big Band Christmas features holiday headliner music favorites from yesteryear, featuring the songs of: Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Rosemary Clooney, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin and MORE! This special, limited four performance run is sure to get the entire family in the holiday spirit! Season tickets aren’t available but they do offer gift certificates.

Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park, Jumping Good Time

15312 E Sprague Ave open Tuesday through Saturday. Great for all ages, with prices starting open 7 days a week, $19 for 60 min jump pass and special events with dancing to the hottest music under the glow of the Neon Lights, every Friday and Saturday (prices vary) from 9pm to 11pm.

Spokane Valley Heritage Museum

12114 E Sprague Ave. Open Wednesday through Saturday 11am to 4pm. Admission between $4 to $7 dollars per person with kids under 7 being free. Come check out the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum which is the largest repository for the heritage of our area from Havana to west of Post Falls, Peone Prairie to Fairfield including Millwood and Liberty Lake. You can also find books about our area or if you want a year round gift, consider a membership for only $30 per family and includes free admission for a year.

Making Memories

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current

LEGO stopmotion animation workshop, call for video submissions, movie screening By Gwendolyn Haley, librarian Spokane County Library District

LEGO bricks have long been beloved by kids and adults alike for their versatility and endless creative possibilities. But did you know that these colorful building blocks can also serve as the perfect medium for stop-motion animation?

LIBRARY Creating LEGO stop-motion animations teaches patience, attention to detail, and problemsolving. As you painstakingly move your LEGO characters and objects frame by frame, you’ll gain valuable skills. Plus, it’s a perfect bonding experience for families or friends, encouraging collaboration and shared creativity.

Once your stop-motion masterpiece is complete, we invite you to share it with the world by submitting it to the library for our LEGO Stop-Motion Movie Screening & Celebration. You can see the submission guidelines and submit your original stop-motion video to be part of the celebration at www.scld.org/stop-motionscreening.

The easiest way to get started is by using the camera on a smart phone or tablet and a stop-motion app. There are several free apps available for download that you could try.

We’re accepting stop-motion video submissions through Tuesday, January 2, at 5pm. All videos must be appropriate for an all-ages audience.

Stop-motion animation involves taking a series of still photos, each with subtle changes, to create the illusion of movement. Using LEGO bricks, you can craft your own narratives and bring them to life. Whether you’re a child dreaming up adventures or an adult seeking a creative outlet, this medium is a fantastic way to express your imagination.

For kids ages 8–12, the library is offering a LEGO Stop-Motion Animation workshop, where they can try out this creative activity using our LEGO mini figures, backdrops, props, and stopmotion app. The next workshop is at Spokane Valley Library (22 N Herald Rd) on Thursday, December 14, from 4pm to 5:30pm. You can register at www. scld.org/stop-motion.

Creativebug has online video classes for winter celebrations, gifts, decorations

for gift giving. If baking or candy making is your passion, you’ll find recipes and instructions for making delectable treats. And if you enjoy creating plush toys, you’ll even find a class and downloadable pattern on how to crochet an adorable abominable snowman.

By Erin Dodge Current Guest Correspondent

Creativebug is a resource from Spokane County Library District that offers free, online art and craft classes that you can watch anytime, anywhere. All you need to explore your creativity is your in-district library card and an email address to set up a free Creativebug account.

DECEMBER 2023 • 35

If you’re looking for ideas for handmade gifts, I encourage you to check out the classes on handmade soaps, scarves, hats, canning fruit, and custom herbal tea blends.

You’ll find projects and classes for all skill levels with categories covering art and design, sewing, quilting, knitting, crocheting, paper crafts, jewelry making, food and home projects, and holiday/ party crafts.

A hidden treasure trove of crafting goodness can be found in the Resources section within their Class Collections. In the “Create Heirloom Gifts” collection, classes include handmade items that people will want to keep and pass down for generations. Among the offerings are a photo album, a handsewn felt teddy bear, baby booties, and an embroidered photo ornament to capture a special place or a special someone.

Within the “Holiday + Party” category, you’ll find over 100 classes for Winter Celebrations. There are classes on how to craft a variety of ornaments, wreathes, and garlands. You can make custom wrapping paper and bows

If you like to sew, knit, and crochet, check out the “Create a Wardrobe for Winter” collection. Classes include sweaters, jackets, leggings, tops, pajamas, and more for highly customizable winter fashion.

Whether you’re a creator or an avid LEGO enthusiast, we invite you to come to view the video creations and revel in imagination of local stop-motion animators of all ages. Celebrate and enjoy the talented video artists who are our neighbors and friends at the LEGO Stop-Motion Movie Screening & Celebration for all ages on Saturday, January 20, from 4:15pm to 5:45pm at Spokane Valley Library.

The “Budget Friendly Projects” collection includes some simple crafts and some challenging ones that can fit into nearly any budget. The “Kids Japanese Side Sewn Book” would make a wonderful gift or personal gratitude journal. Speaking of kids, the “Crafting for Kids” collection includes fun projects, such as sparkly galaxy slime, cute yarn birds, creative doodling, braided bracelets, and finger knitting to create a fun, slender scarf. Creativebug classes have some features that I find practical and useful. The videos are broken up into chapters for each part of the project allowing you to go at your own pace. They provide a list of materials you need so that you can determine if the project is within your budget and so you can get the materials you need before you start the class. They share photos of finished projects, which I find helpful to compare to my creations. There are many creative projects and online classes to try at Creativebug. To get started exploring crafts and ideas for your winter celebrations, head over to www.scld.org/creativebug.

Call for Submissions:

LEGO StopMotion Movies

Submissions accepted through: Tuesday, January 2, at 5pm For all ages If you’ve created a short LEGO stop-motion animated movie, we’d love to share it! Send us your short stop-motion video for our first screening and celebration of the genre. Learn more at www.scld.org/stop-motionscreening

View the stop-motion movies with us during: Lego Stop-Motion Movie Screening & Celebration SPOKANE VALLEY LIBRARY Saturday, January 20 4:15–5:45pm

www.scld.org

Brought to you by

DECEMBER 2023 • 37

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

Make Holiday Ornaments at the Library For all ages Celebrate the holidays with handmade ornaments created by you! Drop by the library to use our supplies to make something festive. SPOKANE VALLEY LIBRARY Wednesday, Dec 13, 4–5pm OTIS ORCHARDS LIBRARY Thursday, Dec 14, 4–5pm ARGONNE LIBRARY Thursday, Dec 21, 4–5pm

www.scld.org

• DECEMBER 2023

The Crest

The Current Brought to you by

multiple programs for more than many systems… is broken,” Officer Novel Homeless Outreach a decade. After working in the Pratt said. “Part of what we do is try LAPD’s gang enforcement unit, to break down those barriers, those, Officer Pratt spent two years in in my mind, simple barriers; Bus Program Walks the Line community-oriented policing roles passes to get to appointments, rides where he gained the experience and to get them from point a to point Between Compassion and skills that he uses in his current role. b and make sure they’re getting to provider make their rounds “We participated in building where they need to be… some of Enforcement service throughout the Spokane Valley and some programming for the youth, those basic necessities that we try By Colette Buck

Current contributor

Hitting the streets of Spokane Valley with a social service provider from Spokane Valley Partners, Spokane Valley Police Homeless Outreach Officer Joshua Pratt provides a much-needed service to people experiencing homelessness— face-to-face support during tough times. Formed after the Spokane Valley Police Department resumed bike patrols on trails and other pedestrian walkways, the Homeless Outreach Officer program is one of the first of its kind in the region. Spokane Valley leaders approved it after the department reported an increasing number of bike officers making contact with individuals experiencing homelessness. Like many jurisdictions across the country, the City of Spokane Valley is experiencing an increase in homelessness. According to the 2023 Point in Time Count conducted county-wide, a total of 2,390 people were identified as homeless. The numbers reflect populations throughout Spokane County, including the City of Spokane Valley.

connect with people experiencing homelessness for various reasons, offering them anything from food and clothing to bottles of water and rides to treatment facilities. “I think for them (those interactions) are really unique because they’re not used to seeing that…you can just see that sometimes when we meet with (homeless individuals)they’re like, ‘whoa, you’re not here to take me (to jail) on my $200 dollar warrant?’” Homeless Outreach Officer Joshua Pratt said. “Yeah, you need to take care of your warrant, but that’s not what I’m here for. I’m here to offer you these services. I’m here to try and help you get out of this situation, whatever that is.” Officer Pratt came to the Spokane Valley Police Department in 2019, moving to the Inland Northwest from his native Southern California where he worked for the Los Angeles Police Department across

taking them on field trips to get them to see the bigger picture, and to know that there’s life outside of this area and that they have other opportunities,” Officer Pratt said. “Maybe generationally, they didn’t think they had those opportunities, but we tried to let them know that there is other stuff out there for them and that they didn’t need to be stuck in where they were at. That cycle has to break, and it can be broken.”

Beyond checking in with people and discussing options for addiction treatment or mental health support, Officer Pratt and his partner also provide what he calls ‘accountability’ to homeless individuals. It could be as simple as reminding someone of an upcoming meeting about temporary housing, all the way to setting up temporary fostering for a person’s animal while they seek treatment. “The reality is the system…like

“During our conversations with the Valley about those contacts, the opportunity came up to create a fulltime position for homeless outreach by demonstrating the need for it on our end,” Pratt said. “The Valley proactively wanted to address some of these issues throughout the community, and through that, this position was created and it has expanded from there.” Where other jurisdictions might rely on a reactive approach to homelessness, Pratt said the Valley’s program uniquely leans on proactive contacts to steer homeless individuals toward utilizing support services. Four days a week, Pratt and his partnering

Contributed photo Spokane Valley Police Officer/ Spokane County Sheriff’s Deputy Joshua Pratt, who joined the department and currently serves as Spokane Valley’s homeless outreach officer.

to do.”

While it might be too soon to call the Homeless Outreach Officer program a major success, Officer Pratt says the response from people experiencing homelessness and the housed community has been positive. The challenge now for Pratt and his partnering service providers is to get the greater community completely on board with the new approach and any other additional services the city might need to invest in to reduce homelessness. “The big picture that I try to explain to people is that we don’t want just a bandaid on the hemorrhage,” Pratt said. “We’d like to get them up and out of their situation, whether it be an addiction, dealing with mental health (disorders)…unemployment, or just bad luck…the idea is to say, ‘hey, let’s figure this out. Let’s get you completely off of this.’” Three years in, the department is actively considering adding an additional officer to the program to increase its reach and impact. The additional officer would allow the program to function similarly to regular patrol teams within the department while making sure someone from the program is available seven days a week to support anyone experiencing homelessness and seeking services. “I get calls all the time that say ‘hey, you don’t know me but you helped get so-and-so to treatment and I want to go to treatment,’ or ‘someone said I can trust you, so I’m calling you’,” Pratt said. “That’s so powerful because whatever people’s beliefs are or whether stuff has happened to them in the past, whether right or wrong or why they believe what they believe, us building that bridge between the community and law enforcement is huge.”

DECEMBER 2023 • 39

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PUZZLES

A Place for Someone You Love

Spokane’s premier approach to Retirement Living

Call to learn more

509-928-2222

RETIREMENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE

www.orchardcrestretirement.com • 222 S Evergreen Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99216

• DECEMBER 2023

The Current