Membership dues are assessed on the anniversary month of a member joining the Chamber. Special thanks go out to the following businesses and individuals who have elected to continue their support of the Pullman Chamber of Commerce:
• Adobe
• Banner Bank
• Coldwell Banker Tomlinson Associates
• HUB International Insurance
• Jess Ford of Pullman
• Kristi Kurle
• Pacific Empire Radio
• Pioneer Title Company of Washington
• Pullman Disposal
• Red Anvil Design Works
• Rico’s Pub
• Senator Mark Schoesler
• Values & Vision Financial Advisors
• Whitman County Public Health
• WSU Compton Union Building
Palouse Habitat for Humanity (PHfH) has built affordable homes in Latah and Whitman counties since 1992. Our mission is to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope. The 23 homes we’ve built have helped 93 of our neighbors, half of those children, to have a safe, affordable home, and a more secure future. Homes are in the works in Moscow and Palouse.
January 6th through February 3rd we will be accepting applications to select our next homeowner for the Habitat home we are building in Pullman. We provide a hand up, not a handout. Homeowners are selected based on need, ability to purchase the home and willingness to put in 300 hours helping to build the home. Please visit our website at palousehabitat.org for more information on our application process. Most of our applicants come to us encouraged by employers, co-workers, friends and family. You may know the next habitat homeowner—all they need is a nudge from you!
PHfH’s Ramps and Rails program offers safe access to homes. We have provided 263 homes with ramps, handrails or entry repairs.
PHfH program is able to provide these services to the community because of donors, great community volunteers and funds raised through our ReStore.
On April 19th, we will have our largest fundraiser dinner and auction, Beans ‘n’ Jeans. This event sells out early so call our office at 208-883-8502 or visit our website if you are interested in buying tickets or becoming a sponsor.
NEW MEMBERS Maynard-Price Post 52 American Legion PO Box 24 Pullman, WA 99163 509-432-9022 http://walegion52.org
December Seniors of the Month
Amy Fugh
Amy Fugh, daughter of Jiping Tan and Daicheng Fu, has maintained a 4.0 GPA while participating in many activities at PHS. She has participated in DECA and Key Club for all four years and has held leadership positions in both organizations. This year, while serving as ASB's executive secretary, Amy enjoys planning fun events for the school.
In her free time, Amy loves playing tennis. This spring, she is the captain of the PHS Girl’s Tennis Team. Last season, Amy played number 2 singles for her team and was undefeated in all her league matches, earning her a GSL all-league award. She has also swum with the PHS Girl’s Swim Team for four years, and this fall, she joined the team in the state competition. Her future plans include attending a fouryear college, where she intends to study business.
Scott Frye
Scott Frye, child of Brian and Heidi Frye, has loved being involved in many different activities at PHS. He played percussion in the concert and pep band each year, participated in DECA and has been part of a variety of sports offered at PHS. Scott’s favorite teams that he’s been a part of include his sophomore year swim team, where he won second place in a state relay and was awarded “Most Sportsmanlike” and “Breakout Swimmer of the Year,” and his junior football team, where he was the starting fullback.
Last summer, Scott got to work at a research lab at WSU, studying the connection between psychology and kinesiology. He also had the opportunity to volunteer for Movies in the Park, where families in Pullman can come watch free movies at Reaney Park, something he loved.
Scott is undecided on where he will attend college, but he plans to major in kinesiology or engineering with a minor in business.
*Incontinence/pelvic
*Vestibular
SHELTER 1340 SE Old Moscow Road, Pullman • shelter@whitmanpets.org Shelter hours: Open: Saturday - Wednesday 1-5pm, CLOSED Thursday & Friday POOCH PARK at Pullman • (509) 416-6181 • poochpark@whitmanpets.org
STEP INTO YOUR FUTURE PULLMAN CENTER IN PROFILE
We are excited that Eric Fejeran has joined the Pullman team in the position of Center Manager. His role includes overseeing the Running Start program, leading student recruitment and outreach, and managing daily operations. Passionate about creating meaningful opportunities in his community, Eric was inspired to pursue this position last summer. We sat down with Eric to learn more about his journey, his vision for the Pullman Center, and what’s ahead for 2025.
What drew you to role of Center Manager?
I earned my associate degree in fine arts from Spokane Falls in 2020, but my journey started years earlier while working at SEL. At that time, I was looking for ways to grow personally and professionally, which led me to enroll at Spokane Falls Community College. The support I received from the staff and students left a lasting impression with me. So, when I saw this role posted, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Community colleges are uniquely positioned to meet the educational and workforce needs of their
communities, and I’m excited to lead these efforts with an amazing team. What are your initial impressions of the Pullman Center?
It’s such a welcoming place that reflects the spirit of the community. The staff and students are driven and collaborative, which makes every day rewarding. I’m proud to be part of an environment where everyone is focused on helping students succeed.
What’s your take on the many challenges to education?
Community colleges have always risen to meet challenges, and the coming year will be no different. With potential shifts in federal priorities and state budgets, the role of education becomes even more crucial. Spokane Falls Community College stands ready to support students at every stage of their journey, providing access, opportunity, and the tools to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
What’s ahead for the Pullman Center in 2025?
We expect continued growth in enrollment, services, and areas of study in 2025. In the winter quarter, we’re expanding peer tutoring to provide more direct support to students. We are relaunching lab science courses in our newly remodeled science space, which looks and works amazing. Plus, the Community Colleges of Spokane have completed a comprehensive rebranding process. I’m excited about the reintroduction of our institution to the community with refreshed colors, logo, and, of course, new merch!
News & Updates
CCS Pullman is hiring! We are inviting applications for adjunct teaching vacancies in Environmental Science, Health, and Physical Education during the spring quarter, April 1 – June 18, 2025.
We are pleased to welcome Dr. Shane Carrion to our faculty group. He holds a Ph.D. in animal science from Washington State University and will teach biology at the Pullman Center. Shane is excited to share his passion for biology with students and colleagues. He worked for many years in the finance industry before making a career change to biology. Shane studied zoology at Pikes Peak Community College and holds a BS in biology from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. He and his wife have a college-aged son and are on the lookout for bassets who need a home!
Calendar
January 2 - March 20
Winter Term ’25
April 1 - June 18
Spring Term ‘25
Happy New Year
Adapting to Uncertainty: Pullman Schools Face 2025 Challenges
Nathan Roberts, Board Director District 4
As our Pullman School Board and administrative team plan for the year ahead, we find that 2025 brings significant change with farreaching implications for public education, both nationally and locally here in Pullman. This new year confronts public schools with profound financial, legal, and policy uncertainties that demand difficult decisions to sustain operations and adaptation to survive in this shifting educational landscape.
In Washington State, a challenging budget-focused legislative session looms, with a projected $10–12 billion deficit over the next four years that will require painful decisions to address. These state budget challenges are compounded by two years of sharply rising costs for school districts. For example, from the 2019–2020 to 2022–2023 school years, food costs increased by 36%, insurance costs by 48%, repair costs by 54%, and natural gas by 76% on average across the state. These inflation induced costs are forcing many Washington State school districts to cut staff, reduce programs, and close buildings.
At the federal level, funding uncertainties abound. The new administration under President Trump is expected to propose deep cuts to federal education funding, particularly for Title I, II, and III programs, which provide critical support to public schools. Though no one knows what will happen, it is all but certain that maintaining current federal funding levels is not an option, and reductions, depending on their extent, could significantly impact staffing and resources, especially in many rural and low-income districts.
Federal policy shifts could further disrupt public education. Proposed expansions of tax-credit vouchers, such as the Educational Choice for Children Act, would divert funding away from public schools and toward private and homeschooling options. A pending US Supreme Court case also threatens the Universal Service Fund, which supports $9 billion in connectivity funding for schools. If struck down, it could jeopardize technology and internet access, disproportionately affecting districts that rely on this funding.
Legislative changes present additional challenges as well. Anticipated rollbacks to Title IX protections, particularly those addressing sexual
orientation and gender identity, could reduce protections for vulnerable students. These rollbacks would also put our school district in a legal bind as they are at odds with Washington state laws protecting the rights of those classes. Proposals to limit or abolish the Department of Education add an additional element of uncertainty to a great deal of the policies and funding we rely on to operate and educate our kids.
For Pullman Public Schools, these developments create a challenging landscape. Rising costs, and anticipated reductions in state and federal funding will necessitate difficult decisions about staffing, programs, and resources to protect Pullman Public Schools from insolvency and state takeover. In preparation, the board has already begun the process of strategic planning to maintain our district’s financial health while focusing on our mission to deliver the best education we can to our students.
As the education landscape evolves, community support will be vital. Parents, educators, and policymakers must work together to advocate for sustainable solutions that prioritize student needs and uphold public education. While the future remains uncertain, active engagement and advocacy with our state and federal legislators by every community member would help encourage support for strong public schools with local control. Despite the challenges of 2025, I’m hopeful that our School Board and administrative team can adapt to these new realities in the best interests of our staff, our students and our community.
The opinions expressed in Board Reports are those of individual school board members and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the board as a whole or of Pullman Public Schools.
CAPTION FOR:
Are you familiar with Pullman School District’s inclement weather procedures? You can find school closure/delay protocols, a winter weather FAQ, and safety tips on our district website at the URL address below.
Are you familiar with Pullman School District’s inclement find school closure/delay protocols, a winter weather district website at the URL address below.
Are you familiar with Pullman School District’s inclement weather procedures? You find school closure/delay protocols, a winter weather FAQ, and safety tips on our district website at the URL address below.
Are you familiar with Pullman School District’s inclement find school closure/delay protocols, a winter weather district website at the URL address below.
Building Bridges to the Future: College and Career Readiness at Pullman High School
Debbie Crabtree, Pullman High School Principal
At Pullman High School, our goal is to provide students with strong foundational skills as they transition out of high school. Whether students are aiming for further education, entering the workforce, or pursuing other opportunities, we strive to equip all graduates with the skills and experiences necessary for success. Through programs like College in the High School and Career and Technical Education (CTE), we provide students with both academic challenges and real-world learning opportunities to ensure they are ready for their next steps.
In an effort to provide students with more opportunities for academic growth and real-world skills, we have expanded our College in the High School offerings to include a broader range of courses. These courses
or welding, students are equipped with the skills and experience needed to succeed in both college and the workforce.
As we continue to strengthen our course offerings we remain committed to providing students with opportunities that not only meet academic standards but also prepare them for a successful future in an ever-changing world.
As we continue to strengthen our course offerings we remain committed to providing students with opportunities that not only meet academic standards but also prepare them for a successful future in an ever-changing world.
Laura was recommended for this recognition by Kamiak Elementary staff, who were so inspired by Laura’s dedication, attention to detail,
“Excellence in Education” Recipient
As we continue to strengthen our
Laura Manning, now currently serving as an Assistant Cook/Cashier at Pullman High School, was previously serving in this role at Kamiak Elementary and has been named the recipient of the “Excellence in Education” honor from our school board! Each year, the board selects one classified employee to receive this recognition. Laura was recommended for this recognition by Kamiak Elementary staff, who were so inspired by Laura’s dedication, attention to detail, interpersonal skills, and initiative.
remain committed to providing students with opportunities that standards but also prepare them for a successful future in an ever-changing
with the addition of Civics, additional history courses, and advanced science courses. These new offerings will give students even more choices to customize their academic paths, helping them gain a deeper understanding of important subjects while preparing for future college and career opportunities.
As we continue to strengthen our course offerings we remain committed to providing students with opportunities that not only meet academic standards but also prepare them for a successful future in an ever-changing world.
For students interested in pursuing specific careers, our Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses offer a structured pathway to success by allowing them to learn about various careers and practice relevant skills. The integration of real world experiences into these courses
will provide equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and all other designated youth groups listed in Title 36 of the United States Code as a patriotic society. District programs will be free from sexual harassment. The following employees have been designated to handle questions and complaints of alleged discrimination: Civil Rights Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator, Assistant Superintendent, (509) 332-3144, compliancecoord@psd267.org, and Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Assistant Superintendent (509) 332-3144, compliancecoord@psd267.org. 240 SE Dexter Street, Pullman, WA 99163. Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations in the application process by contacting the Personnel Coordinator at (509) 332-3584. Title IX inquiries may also be directed toward the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR): https://www2. ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html. Information about the nondiscrimination and sex- based discrimination policies and grievance procedures, and how to report a concern or complaint: https:// www.pullmanschools.org/families/hib-and-discrimination/discrimination_sexual_harassment.
Laura has served the Pullman School District for 5 years! Kamiak staff shared, “What truly sets Laura apart is her ability to forge strong and meaningful relationships with both students and staff. She went beyond the scope of her role, becoming a trusted and familiar presence in our school community. Her warm and caring demeanor resonated with everyone she interacted with, creating a welcoming and clean atmosphere for all. She makes [our students] feel valued and appreciated as they go about their school day. Her positive interactions contribute to the overall atmosphere within our school community, fostering a sense of belonging and support among staff and students. No job is too big or small for 1
Laura has served the Pullman School District for 5 years! Kamiak staff shared, “What truly sets Laura apart is her ability to forge strong and meaningful relationships with both students and staff. She went beyond the scope of her role, becoming a trusted and familiar presence in our school community. Her warm and caring demeanor resonated with everyone she interacted with, creating a welcoming and clean atmosphere for all. She makes [our students] feel valued and appreciated as they go about their school day. Her positive interactions contribute to the overall atmosphere within our school community, fostering a sense of belonging and support among staff and students. No job is too big or small for Laura. She tackles it all with hard work and a positive attitude. She sees a need and fills it. She is committed to our district and our students.”
Congratulations Laura! Pullman School District thanks you for your many years of service!
2024 Excellence in Education Award Nominees:
• Michelle Dunlap, Secretary at Franklin Elementary School. Michelle has served the Pullman School District for 7 years!
• Mei Clark, Special Education Paraeducator at Pullman High School. Mei has served the Pullman School District for 8 years!
• Reem Nasralla, Special Education Paraeducator at Sunnyside Elementary School. Reem has served the Pullman School District for 9 years!
• Heather Drader, Office Paraeducator at Jefferson Elementary School. Heather has served the Pullman School District for 5 years! Pullman School District thanks you all for your many years of service!
Arron Carter Director, District 1 acarter@psd267.org
Lisa Waananen Jones Director, District 2 lwaananenjones@psd267.org
Craig Nelson Director, District 3 cnelson@psd267.org
Nathan Roberts Director, District 4 nroberts@psd267.org
Amanda Tanner Director, District 5 atanner@psd267.org
• PSD, Sunnyside PTO Meeting, 6:00 p.m. at SES
• PSD, Jefferson PTA Meeting, 6:30 p.m. at JES
• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• PSD, No School, Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• City Hall Closed for MLK Jr Day
• Pullman Chamber of Commerce, General Membership Luncheon, see pg 1
Issues of the Pullman Community Update can be found online at https://pulllmanchamber.com/live-in-pullman/ Abbreviations
• JES = Jefferson Elementary School
• LMS= Lincoln Middle School PAFC= Pullman Aquatic and Fitness Center
• PHS= Pullman High School
• PDSC= Palouse Discovery Science Center
• PRH= Pullman Regional Hospital
• SES = Sunnyside Elementary School
• SFCC=Spokane Falls Community College
Events
Community Action Center will be closed December 23, 2024 –January 1, 2025.
2025 Seed to Table: Beginning Gardening Series
January: Planning your Vegetable GardenSpace Considerations and Garden Beds
Learn everything you need to know to make this year a success in our veggie garden! Classes are perfect for beginners or seasoned gardeners looking to pick up new skills. Participants can expect detailed instruction, useful handouts, and a handson activity each session. Classes are offered independent of each other so sign up for just one, or as many as you like! To register, go to https://www.cacwhitman.org/ community-garden-2/
• Tuesday, January 14th @ 1 pm: Colfax Library
• Wednesday, January 15th @ 5:30 pm: Pullman Senior Center
Class participants will gain knowledge on plant growth and learn about growing your own food and fresh food donations. We’ll talk about choosing a garden site and making garden beds (container, raised, in- ground). We will end the class with a microgreen growing activity.
The Food & Shelter Folks
Community Action Center says Thank You to the Pullman community—and all who support the work to build food and housing security in Whitman County!
A special thank you to these generous people and businesses for their impactful giving in 2024:
Jim Allen
Michael & Jessie Armstrong
Banner Bank Pullman
Joseph Bensinger
Katherine Bittinger
Jill Borchard
Community Foundation Of the North State
Michael Connell
Dr. Richard & Pamela Debowes
Sue Durrant
H. Graeme & Barbara French
Ken Gibson
Harold R Brown Foundation
Innovia Foundation
Nick & Karen Kiessling
Brian Kirk
Gracjan Kraszewski
James Lee
Brad Lewis
Gary & Kathleen Meadows
Charles & Bonnie Millham
Cornelius Murphy
Carol Ndambuki
Diane Neff
Palouse Cares
Lynn & David Pollock
Becky & Chandler Priebe
Pullman Seventh-Day Adventist Church
Mary Ramirez
Penni Reavis
Renaissance Charitable Foundation
Sacred Heart Parish
Mark & Ann Schumaker
Schweitzer Engineering Lab. Inc.
Luanne Semler
Bryan & Kathy Slinker
Smith-Barbieri
Progressive Fund
Trinity Lutheran Church
Austin Tuttle
Washington Federal Bank
Lennis Watts
Wesley & Barbara Wolcott
Dave & Patsy Wood
Community Food FOOD PANTRY
Please support the food bank and the community during the holidays! You can make a monetary donation to the food bank at: https://www.cacwhitman.org/donate/ We take food donations by appointment. Please call the front desk (509-334-9147) to make an appointment to donate food. We are requesting the following donations:
• Jam/Jelly
• Canned soups
• Diapers size 6
• Canned meats – spam, tuna, and chicken
• Baby wipes
Our food bank times are by appointment. Please use our appointment scheduling web page to make an appointment. https://www.cacwhitman.org/food-bank-appointment/
MONDAY Closed TUESDAY Closed
WEDNESDAY 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
THURSDAY 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
FRIDAY 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Keep on Pushing: Building Bridges to Sustainability
Washington State University’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Program is thrilled to announce this year’s MLK week: “Keep on Pushing: Building Bridges to Sustainability.” This theme embodies our collective commitment to sustainability as a comprehensive social objective that ensures we meet the needs of the present while empowering future generations to meet theirs. By fostering connections across diverse groups and encouraging open dialogue, we aim to inspire positive action within our community, recognizing that working together is essential for meaningful progress.
There will be events from Jan. 20 to 24, beginning with a Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 20. This day will provide opportunities for participants to give back to their communities and foster a spirit of shared action and commitment. On Tuesday, Jan. 21 WSU will observe the National Day of Racial Healing. The week will conclude with the WSU MLK Keynote Celebration featuring keynote speaker Rhonda Magee, the Founding Director of the Center for Contemplative Law and Ethics at the University of San Francisco School of Law, on Thursday, Jan. 24
For more information, visit mlk.wsu.edu/.
WSU’s Faculty Remix Exhibition Celebrates 50 Years of Art Collaboration
Opening Jan. 14 and on view through June 28, experience Your Collection: Faculty Remix, honoring five decades of creative partnership between the museum and Department of Art. This special 50th anniversary exhibition pairs work from the museum’s permanent collection with work by current studio art faculty.
For more information, visit museum.wsu.edu/exhibit/2025-yourcollection-faculty-remix/.
Explore the World of Glass with Hallie Meredith
On Thursday, Jan. 16, join Assistant Professor Hallie Meredith for a community perspectives tour of the museum’s glass collection. The tour starts at 4 p.m. in the Samuel E. Smith Center atrium and concludes at the museum, followed by a reception for the Your Collection: Faculty Remix exhibition.
For more information, visit museum.wsu.edu/event/2024community-perspectives-tour-with-dr-hallie-meredith/.
Music Major for a Day
The School of Music would like to invite prospective School of Music students and their families to its Spring 2025 Music Major for a Day open house on Monday, Jan. 27 in the Kimbrough Music Building. Participants can see how the School of Music provides students with a rich and diverse musical education and prepares them for successful careers in music. They can learn about degree programs, admission, auditions, scholarships, and financial aid, attend classes and participate in ensemble rehearsals, meet faculty, enjoy a free private lesson, and interact with current music students.
To register, visit music.wsu.edu/mmfad/.
Faculty Remix Opening Reception: Art, Music, and Mingling
Celebrate Your Collection: Faculty Remix on Jan. 16, with an opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU. Enjoy live music, appetizers, and a chance to connect with studio art faculty.
For more information, visit museum.wsu.edu/event/2024-yourcollection-faculty-remix-exhibition-reception/.
Marian E. Smith Glass Collection and Dr. Hallie Meredith
Joe Hedges, Heterotic, 2022
Works by artists Lillian Pitt and Mana Mehrabian
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