December 2020 Splash

DECEMBER

2020

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2 • DECEMBER 2020

The Splash

DOCKSIDE Tech Translator

– Henderson helps city navigate virtual world

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

You could say that being an Information Technology specialist these days is like working as a master stonemason during The Renaissance or a rocket scientist at the start of the Space Race.

Unique conditions resulting in high demand.

When the city of Liberty Lake hired Todd Henderson to be its inaugural Information Technology technician in March, the first waves of a worldwide pandemic were touching ground in the Inland Northwest. The ensuing impact meant remote access would be essential. Laptops and reliable online access now represented lifelines for municipal leaders as City Council, Planning Commission and every other meeting on the city calendar went virtual.

“The city is very fortunate to have Todd,” said City Administrator Katy Allen. “Not only is he a subject matter expert, he also brings a wealth of experience and technical knowledge.

That has been one of the main reasons we’ve been able to manage our services and public meetings during the Covid era. The entire city has benefited from his commitment to serving our community.”

Allen noted that Henderson has been adept at guiding the city through coordination of technical needs with outside public agencies and fellow jurisdictions. Purchases of software and hardware for city use have also fallen under Henderson’s hefty list of duties. He has helped the Spokane Valley Fire Department coordinate its remote setup in the wake of Covid as well.

“I believe that working remotely and online meetings will be the new normal as we continue to face the issue with COVID-19 and as an employee of the city, they do look after their employees’ welfare,”

Henderson said. “The city has helped employees that are sick and allowed them to work from home. The city has also provided counseling for those that are struggling mentally with the COVID-19 pandemic.”

As a student at North Central High School in Spokane, Henderson did not seem headed toward a career in technology. He was part of the Chess Club, played tennis and ran cross country. The early Apple computers – Henderson graduated in 1991 – held little interest. “They looked like microwaves,” he recalls.

After high school, Henderson bought a Packard Bell 386 personal computer for $1,000 but had issues with it shortly after the purchase.

When he brought it back to the store, customer service shrugged.

Henderson persisted, consulting with someone from the outside who built computers.

“From there I built my first computer,” he said. “I took several classes such as A+ Certification and Network + Certification. From those classes, I had an interest in computers.”

Henderson emerged with an Associate’s degree at Spokane Falls Community College but was more interested in a career involving community development at the time. He credits his investment in

education and general motivation to a family that adopted him out of foster care. All three of his brothers have gone on to higher education and successful careers.

“It was very important in terms of structure,” Henderson said.

After SFCC, Henderson enrolled at Eastern Washington University, eventually earning a degree in Electronic Media Theater and Filmic Art. Work in his new degreed field was difficult to come by, however, and he found his way back to EWU to study for a Master’s in computer science.

With his advanced degree in hand, Henderson landed a job not far from campus at the Washington State Digital Archives, which holds the distinction of being the first digital archives in the country to preserve the electronic records of state and local government. As of this month, the site – established by former Secretary of State Sam Reed – was home to over 230 million preserved records. Henderson called the archives home from 2006 to 2017, training users on application tools, helping develop reports and doing server work. His unofficial title was Data Ingestion coordinator.

Henderson left the archives to accept a job with his alma mater, working as a database administrator

Contributed Photo Todd Henderson has been working as the city of Liberty Lake’s Information Technology technician since March. He is the first person to hold the position since the city incorporated in 2001. The Spokane native and Eastern Washington University grad previously worked for the Washington State Digital Archives and his alma mater.

until he heard about the posting in Liberty Lake.

“It seemed like an interesting fit for me,” he said.

Q: You started your job with the city right when the COVID-19 impact was really being felt in our community. How did this scenario affect the work you were asked to do in your first few months?

A: After I was hired, I was asked for my opinion if ordering laptops for several key city staff to be used from working from home was a great idea. In addition, they would be used to replace desktops that were outdated. I agreed with this recommendation. I mentioned that we wanted to also look into using Cisco AnyConnect VPN or other types of remote VPN software to be loaded on the laptop. I also stated that we should look into Zoom to have remote face-to-face meetings and Slack for instant messaging on the laptops. Staff would have to use their own internet access and power.

Within the few months, we have replaced several staff desktops with laptops, setup FortiClient VPN for staff to work from home and have setup Zoom meetings for the City Council and Planning Commission.

Q: From meetings on Zoom to increased demand on your servers, there has been a lot of pivoting since March. How do you think the city has adjusted to the new virtual environment?

A: I believe the city has adjusted quite well with moving to a virtual environment. The major increase has been on our firewall for the VPN connections. The Zoom meetings have been going well for the City Council meetings along with the Planning Commission meetings. We have been asked by Spokane Valley Fire Department for assistance with using Zoom.

Q: What did you know about the city of Liberty Lake before you became an employee?

A: I have been to Liberty Lake several times to eat at Ding How and know of some of the tech companies that are in Liberty Lake such as F5 and TierPoint. I do remember that when I worked for Washington State Archives, Digital Archives, that Liberty Lake was one of the HENDERSON, Page 5

DECEMBER 2020 • 3

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City Council News and Notes – December 2020

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

• The city proclaimed Nov. 8-14 as National Nurse Practitioner Week. The proclamation noted how nurse practitioners have been “working tirelessly to diagnose and treat patients with COVID-19 and to combat community spread nationwide.”

• City Engineer Ben Schmitt gave an update on a collision at the Harvest Parkway and Mission roundabout that damaged part of the wall. Schmitt said on Nov. 3 that crews were working to repair the structure while the city continues “work through insurance to get the repairs completed.” Schmitt has been in touch with Avista to improve the lighting at the intersection. There are also plans to move the roundabout warning sign 50 yards ahead at a flashing beacon.

• Schmitt told council the Henry Road overpass project is close to the 90-percent submittal stage on design work. “We’re still on track where we need to be for our design review,” Schmitt said.

On the funding side, Allen said the city “does not have the green light” from the state for funding at this point but “remains cautiously optimistic.”

• Operations and Maintenance Director Jennifer Camp told council that tree damage related to heavy unseasonal snowfall in late October was the worst she has seen in her decade with the city. Camp said municipal crews addressed the hazards within reach and were assisted by Greenleaf Landscaping, a contractor with the city, to tackle the remaining issues. “That’s when we rely on the certified arborist to come in,” Camp said. “They’re doing a lot of the specific cleanup work.”

• The city is looking to hire a human resource manager, maintenance worker and lateral police officers. An announcement on the new police chief is expected soon. A contingent offer has been made to one of the three finalists for the position, according to the mayor.

• The city has spent $230,000 of CARES Act funding for safety measures related to the pandemic.

Businesses in Liberty Lake will

File photo A signal box utility art wrap, similar to this one at Liberty Lake Road and Country Vista, will soon be part of the landscape at Madson and Appleway.

Liberty Lake-based STCU has donated $1,000 toward the project, coordinated by the city’s Parks and Arts Commission.

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NEWS HENDERSON

continue to be provided with free personal protective equipment and other safety-related products while protective face masks have been offered to residents without charge. The most recent mask distribution took place at City Hall on Nov. 13.

• The city’s annual Christmas potluck has been cancelled this year, though Allen said there will be acknowledgment of municipal employees as in past years.

• The second annual Winter Glow kicks off at Orchard Park on Nov. 21. The display will be altered this year to observe social distancing measures.

• STCU has donated $1,000 to the city’s Parks and Arts Commission for a signal box utility art wrap at Madson and Appleway. The theme will be sunflowers.

• In connection with a council vote in September to sell a 23.1-acre property adjacent to Liberty Lake Road and Legacy Ridge Drive – land that had been proposed for a trail and/or conservation area – the city posted the following update on its website: “The city of Liberty Lake and Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District (LLSWD) are discussing a transaction in which the city would sell parcel #55226.9035 (the 23.1 acres) to LLSWD. Both agencies believe that the proposed “purchase and sale” of this property is mutually beneficial to our community.

Though the terms of the ‘purchase and sale’ agreement are still under discussion, the general concept is that LLSWD would obtain the property for the purpose of improving access and security to existing LLSWD property.

LLSWD intends to preserve open space while continuing to allow public access and has no plans or intentions to pave any trails connecting this Property to the Saltese Flats Uplands Conservation Area. The parties are also discussing the city obtaining a future option to purchase the property should the LLSWD decide to sell the property. The terms of this purchase and sale agreement are scheduled to be discussed in a workshop at the Nov. 17 City Council meeting (after presstime). The purchase and sales agreement will be discussed at both the City Council and LLSWD Commissioners public meetings.”

DECEMBER 2020 • 5

PATIENT

FOCUSED

Continued from page 2

GENER AL • COSME TIC • COMPUTER- GUIDED

few cities that had provided all the minutes, ordinances and resolutions to Digital Archives. Liberty Lake is a beautiful city and I am very honored to be working for this city.

Q: You went through the foster system growing up and were adopted into a supportive family. What kind of an impact did becoming part of this family have on your life?

A: Being adopted from foster care has allowed me to improve myself to be a better person. School was very important to my adopted family and as such has greatly influenced me to continue schooling after graduating from high school. My brothers and I all have attended college and finished with degrees. My oldest brother teaches music at Maryville University and plays the piano for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

My younger brother teaches choir and orchestra for Bowdish Middle School in the Central Valley School District and Latin online with Spokane School District 81. My other brother works at a hospital at Klamath Falls, Oregon.

Q: I’m guessing that not many people know there is an archive dedicated to preserving state and local government records. What did you learn from working here for so many years?

A: Working for the Washington State Archives, Digital Archives, I have learned that 10 percent of state, county and local records is considered permanent archival.

Digital Archives is the first in the nation to allow anyone access to electronic public records online.

This was an envision from former Secretary of State Sam Reed.

Q: I know you have an office at the police station and are on-call to respond to tech issues at various city sites but as many of us adjust to a workplace away from work, what do think is the best thing about working from home?

A: There are less interruptions that makes it easier to focus on the task at hand. That is why working from home, there are less interruptions. Although I can be reached via cellular, either by text or by voice. I have the ability to remote on staff computer, there really is not much changes from working from home than working onsite.

Being onsite gives the advantage to provide direct technical support where it may be more difficult to provide that remotely.

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6 • DECEMBER 2020

The Splash

Introducing the

Safety Awareness Channel

Police Report - October 2020 Splash news sources

Total incidents

471

Traffic Collisions/Hit & Runs / Injury Collisions 5 Citations (Traffic/Criminal/NonCriminal) 62 DUI (Driving Under Influence) 2 Thefts / Vehicle Prowls / Vehicle Theft / Burglaries 21 Malicious Mischief 1 Argument / Assault DV / Simple

October Council Brief Map 12 Assault2020 / Assault w/a Weapon Parking Violations 9 Suspicious Vehicles 19

Least Most

Burglary, 10/11/20; Officers responded to the report of an Alarm located at 19505 E Broadway (All Sport). Arriving Officers observed a male in the fenced area attempting to steal an ATV. When the suspect male noticed police on-scene, he quickly fled from the area. With assistance from SCSO, a perimeter was set up for containment, and a K9 track was started. Despite all efforts to locate the suspect male, he was not located.

All property involved was recovered.

Drugs, 10/11/20; Officers responded to the report of a possible Theft located at 1502 N Liberty Lake Rd (Walgreens). A description of the involved suspect was provided by Walgreen’s employees. The described individuals were contacted by Officers. Through their investigation, they recovered the stolen items from Walgreens. Upon the suspect’s arrest,

Officers additionally discovered the suspect was in possession of heroin and methamphetamine. The suspect was cited for Theft 3rd and then transported to the Spokane County jail and booked on two counts of Possession of Controlled Substance.

DUI, 10/15/20; Officers responded to the area E Mission Ave and E Country Vista Dr on the report of a male slumped over the steering wheel and parked in the middle of the roadway. Arriving, Officers woke the male driver up. It was obvious, the male was physically impaired to the point he should not have been driving a motor vehicle. Officers cited and released the male driver for Physical Control of a Motor Vehicle.

Vehicular Assault; Officers responded to the report of a vehicle accident located at the roundabout (E Mission Ave/

circles contain the number of incidents in a given area.

Harvest Pkwy). Arriving, Officers discovered a passenger vehicle had collided with the east side of the roundabout structure flipping the involved vehicle on its top and causing significant damage to the roundabout structure.

Through their investigation it was discovered the two occupants of the vehicle had significant injuries (non life threatening) and the driver had been drinking prior to the collision. Both occupants were transported to the hospital to be treated for their injuries which required surgery. Based on the totality and serious nature of the incident, Officers applied for and were granted a blood search warrant.

Investigation continues.

Stay safe and take care of each other!!

DECEMBER 2020 • 7

The Splash

The Lookout The Community Corner A Banner Construction Year in Liberty Lake

By Lisa Key Planning, Engineering and Building Despite the significant economic ramifications rippling throughout our community as a result of this pandemic, construction activity in Liberty Lake has been one bright spot amid otherwise gloomy economic performance in the region. In fact, 2020 construction statistics indicate a record-setting construction season for the city of Liberty Lake.

Single-family residential construction activity has surpassed all prior years since the city incorporated in 2001. As of Oct. 31, 2020, the city had issued 148

certificates of occupancy (COs) for singlefamily residential units.

This exceeds the number of COs issued in all of 2018 (144) and 2019 (140). With two months remaining in 2020, we are projected to issue a total of 178 COs for single-family residential units in 2020.

Commercial construction in Liberty Lake in 2020 is perhaps an even bigger story. Construction of Ridgeline High School, a 241,000 square foot building with ancillary facilities located on Country Vista Drive near the city’s western border continues and will be wrapping up in the summer of 2021 for a grand opening in the fall.

Other significant commercial construction in 2020 has included a 68,300 square foot warehouse addition at Huntwood Manufacturing on Appleway Avenue.

Construction for Swiss Productions, a 25,657 square foot manufacturing facility located at 2322 N. Madson Avenue is currently underway. Upon completion, Swiss Production will relocate their entire manufacturing operation from California to Liberty Lake. B & E Electric is also constructing a 19,840 square foot office/ warehouse facility at 2211 N. Madson, across the street from Swiss Production.

When complete, B & E Electric intends to consolidate their operations at this new facility.

Greenstone is currently developing a “neighborhood retail cluster” on the corner of Harvest Parkway and Indiana Avenue in the River District, across the street from Orchard Park. Sweet Annie’s, an ice cream shop, and Hello Sugar, a coffee/donut shop, are already open for business. A pizza parlor and a pre-school are also planned to begin construction in the near future on that site. Also, in the

Library continues to serve community

Monday - Friday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

“My congratulations to Mayor Brickner and Mayor Pro Tem Kennedy for your achievement and dedication to continued education on behalf of your community and the city of Liberty Lake,” said AWC CEO Peter King via Zoom.

Saturday: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Holds Pickup Procedure: • Request items online or by phone – www.libertylakewa.gov/435/Library or 509-232-2510

• Have your library card number ready when you call.

• After finished with the phone call, stand behind the holds pickup line on the sidewalk.

Although the Liberty Lake Library isn’t yet ready to reopen, we wanted to give you a preview of what to expect when it happens. We will be following the state’s reopening requirements, so the library’s going to look a little different when you visit. Here’s what you need to know: • We’ll reopen by appointment only and occupancy will be limited.

• The library’s hours will be different.

• Patrons will be able to sign up online or by phone for 25-minute browse and go and computer appointments.

• We will have special hours for

Other projects in the pipeline include a mixed-use development on the northeast corner of Country Vista Drive and Whitman Lane, with a 5,100 square foot restaurant and retail pad and two new medical office buildings, 7,000 square feet and 16,000 square feet respectively. The 115,000 square foot Western States Caterpillar Dealership to be located on East Cataldo Avenue is also in the pipeline with construction planned to get underway in the spring.

Mayor Shane Brickner and Mayor Pro Tem Mike Kennedy were both recognized at the Nov. 3 City Council meeting for earning the Advanced Certificate of Municipal Leadership through the Association of Washington Cities (AWC).

Holds Pickup Hours

• Call 509-232-2510 when you arrive in the library parking lot.

River District Town Center, located on the west side of Harvard Road, Greenstone is just beginning construction of a 14,781 square foot Welcome Center on Indiana Avenue to house office, retail space and a restaurant. Construction of 3,825 square foot brewery on Wellington Avenue, west of Harvard Road, is also underway. A winery with shared parking and seating is planned adjacent to the brewery in the Town Center.

City excels in AWC leadership program

The Liberty Lake Municipal Library is doing its best to serve residents during this challenging time. The library is offering contact-free holds pickup of books and other materials.

• Receive notification that items are available.

December 2020

seniors and high-risk patrons.

• Curbside continue.

pickup

service

will

• All patrons must wear a face mask or face covering that covers their nose and mouth at all times when in the library. If you do not have a mask, we will provide one for you to use during your visit.

• If you have a medical reason or choose not to wear a mask, we will refer you to our curbside pickup service.

• The meeting room will not be available and there won’t be any inperson events.* • We ask that you stay home if you are sick or awaiting test results for COVID-19.

More information about our reopening will be posted, including the reopening date, new hours and other details. Keep an eye on our website and social media for the most up to date information.

Volunteer Helpers for Liberty Lake If you are interested in volunteering to help citizens that are disabled, elderly or injured, please create or use an existing account on the city website – www.libertylakewa. gov – and subscribe through “Notify Me” for “Volunteer Helpers for Liberty Lake.” City staff will be notified of requests for assistance for snow removal, spring yard work, summer yard work, and fall clean up through this program. The city does not provide any tools or equipment for this program, simply notification to those signed up to volunteers of someone needing assistance. We appreciate those citizens able to help other citizens through this program!

For questions, call City Hall at (509) 755-6700.

King said the program, which began in 1997, offers mayors and council members in all 281 cities and towns in Washington the opportunity to gain more knowledge and skills in their leadership roles. The basic program requires 30 credits of study. The advanced program requires 60 credits and a public service component.

Over the years, around 1,100 individuals have earned the basic certificate with 350 completing the advanced certificate. Only around a dozen leaders state are awarded the advanced honor each year.

Current Council Members Cris Kaminskas and Odin Langford had previously earned the advanced certificate.

“I will say that with these two additional advanced certificates Liberty Lake joins four other cities statewide with four elected officials who have the advance certificate,” King said.

https://www.facebook.com/libertylakewa • www.libertylakewa.gov

8 • DECEMBER 2020

City budget shines

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor In a year where cheerful bulletins have been eagerly welcomed, RJ Stevenson was the bearer of good news at a Nov. 3 City Council workshop on the 2021 municipal budget.

The city’s longtime finance director told members of the governing board gathered via Zoom that revenue for 2020 has exceeded expenditures by a rosy $1.8 million. The windfall includes an $800,000 reimbursement for Orchard Park costs through a funding mechanism known as Local Infrastructure Financing Tool or LIFT. “We’re probably going to end up with a surplus of close to $1 million over what we expected,” Stevenson said.

Liberty Lake began the year with $3.2 million in the general fund. When the impacts of COVID-19 began to impact the community, it was decided to cut municipal expenditures by just over $700,000. Summer, however, brought robust numbers in sales tax revenue, buoyed by familiar Liberty Lake retail pillars, RV and auto sales.

October followed suit with sales tax income up $127,000 from this time last year.

“I don’t see that slowing down in the next two months,” Stevenson said.

As the city’s economy has improved, expenditures have remained conservative.

Stevenson said spending now stand around $565,000 lower than originally projected for 2020.

The current cash balance sits at $5.1 million. With the budget clearly in the black, Stevenson suggested that council consider moving $1 million into a capital fund for long-discussed upgrades at the Trailhead Golf Course and Facility.

Last October, the city signed on Staples Golf Resource Group of Scottsdale, Arizona to tackle a master plan design for Trailhead.

The group made several trips to Liberty Lake, held public meetings and met with city leaders. The arrival of the pandemic put the project on hold.

Mayor Pro Tem Mike Kennedy acknowledged that while Trailhead remains an important project, the city has other capital needs as well.

“Are we going to direct any of that surplus to the library?” Kennedy asked.

Stevenson said the goal was simply to provide options to the council and any amount in a Trailhead fund could be removed or transferred.

“The money would just be going to a fund until council decided on a course of action,” he said.

Another project that may be considered for some of the surplus funds is the public works yard, already set to receive $600,000 for extension of utilities and frontage improvements in 2021. Restrooms and a maintenance area have been proposed if the money is approved by council.

“Right now we’re just renting a trailer, there’s no permanent structure out there,” said City Administrator Katy Allen.

Kennedy expressed hope that “we could build everything at one time” on the site. The additional improvements are estimated to run around $300,000.

The positive report from the finance department will be enhanced by the amount still-to-be collected in second-half property taxes. On that front, Stevenson recommended that council adopt a 0.6 percent increase in the property tax rate for 2021. With the projected increase in assessed property value (APV) throughout the city, Stevenson said it’s likely that the amount paid by the average property owner would actually decrease next year even with the slight increase.

“It’s been shrinking over the last several years,” Stevenson said.

The rate increase would put the rate at $1.43 per $1,000 of APV and generate an additional $15,309 for ongoing city services like law enforcement and the library.

Liberty Lake is expected to eclipse $2 billion in assessed property value in 2021. In 2018, the number stood just shy of $1.51 billion.

Council discusses term limits Council Member Annie Kurtz led a workshop discussion on term limits for mayor and council members at the Nov. 3 meeting. Kurtz said it was a topic residents expressed interest in during last year’s election process. There are currently no term limits in place for elected positions in Liberty Lake.

Kurtz supports a maximum of two four-year terms for council members and mayors.

“My thought behind that is to encourage people to be involved in the community, to give people eight years to do work they’re interested in doing for the city and then have other community members take that role on,” Kurtz said. “I think new voices in the community are good.”

Council Member Cris Kaminskas supported more discussion on the topic but expressed concern with the history of uncontested council races over the years and how term limits might leave ballots even lighter.

Allen said MRSC (Municipal Research and Services Center) guidelines state that limits for city leaders can be enacted by an approved council ordinance. No public vote is required.

Allen provided examples of several cities in Washington that have instituted term limits, including Port Angeles (maximum of three consecutive four-year terms), Spokane (maximum of two fouryear terms) and Tacoma (maximum of 10 four-year terms.)

Allen said she would include the topic on a council meeting agenda this month while Kennedy emphasized the need to have residents chime in.

“Because this is such an important topic, we need to allow sufficient time to have citizens involved and have their input on this,” he said.

Liberty Lake sells 23 acres

By Nina Culver

Splash Contributor

Discussions are underway to have the Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District buy a 23-acre parcel of vacant land from the city of Liberty Lake, preserving public access to the informal trails on the land but thwarting the dreams of some residents that the trails might be paved and connected to the trails in the Saltese Flats Uplands Conservation Area.

The land sits on a hill above the intersection of Liberty Lake Road and Sprague Avenue, offering sweeping views of Liberty Lake. The land had caught the attention of several developers over the years, but nothing ever penciled out, said Liberty Lake City Administrator Katy Allen.

It was difficulties in creating access roads and getting water and sewer to the property that caused most proposals to fail, Allen said, in addition to the topographical challenges. “Not all the property is easy to develop,” she said. “Over the course of time, there were a variety of plans to develop it.”

The city purchased the land for $330,000 in 2016. Part of the parcel is zoned as open space, but the majority is zoned residential (R-1). “At the time, there was a discussion about having a natural area so the community could see the lake,” she said. “It’s very pristine, very natural. A lot of our residents actually walk it.”

Some residents had hoped the informal trails there could be paved and connected to the Saltese Flats Uplands Conservation Area, but other residents, particularly those that live nearby, were opposed to that. It turned out to be a controversial idea, Allen said, even among members of the city council. Some were in favor of improving the trails while others were adamantly opposed. “There’s a lot of different opinions on this property,” she said.

When it became clear that improving the trails wasn’t going to happen, the council discussed the possibility of selling the property in an open meeting. The public reaction was swift, Allen said, driven by fears that the land might be sold to a developer.

The Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District heard about the proposal to sell the property and reached out to Mayor Shane Brickner to express interest in buying it, Allen said.

Sewer and Water District General Manager BiJay Adams said the district wants the property because it provides access to a reservoir on land the district already owns adjacent to the parcel the

The Splash city owns. “It’s a dirt road,” he said.

“There’s no public road to it.”

The district is concerned that if a developer buys the land and develops it, they could lose their access. There was once a proposal to put 49 homes on the site, Adams said. “Owning this piece of property would preserve our access,” he said. “Sometimes development can complicate access.”

The district does have a permanent easement for a road across the land, but that road hasn’t been used in some time, Adams said. “It’s impassible and it has been impassible for a number of years,” he said.

The district is currently using a primitive road that connects to East Clearwater Lane for access, but only has an easement for a portion of that road, Adams said. Buying the land would eliminate that concern.

If the district is successful in buying the land, public access will be maintained, Adams said. But the district has no plans to improve the trails or connect them to the trails in the Saltese Flats Uplands Conservation Area, he said. “If we have ownership of that property, we will allow current use,” he said. “We’re basically trying to preserve the existing use of the property.”

The only plans the district has for the property is to upgrade the gate to keep motorized vehicles out and improve the access road. “It’s very overgrown and kind of bumpy,” he said.

Adams said he believes there is support for the district’s plan to purchase the land. “There’s widespread community support for that property to remain undeveloped,” he said. “They want that to remain open space.”

Once it became public that the Sewer and Water District was interested in buying the land, the concerns from the public have died down, Allen said. She hopes that means the public approves of the proposal. “Sometimes silence is an indicator that people aren’t opposed to what you are doing,” she said.

The District has submitted a letter of intent to buy the property to the city, offering a purchase price of $350,134.

The proposed agreement includes a stipulation that if the District ever decides to sell the property, the city will have the option to buy it back. It also spells out the district’s intent to not further develop the trails on the parcel.

If the city council accepts the letter of intent, the sale will be negotiated. The negotiated agreement will have to be approved by both the city council and the district’s board of commissioners in public meetings. Allen said she estimates the sale could be finalized in January.

The Splash

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This guide has been made with our community in mind. We have made a tradition of gathering as many offerings from the heart of our community, small businesses.

Shops have been suffering. These hard working people have been doing their best to keep their doors open in order to keep serving all of us. We hope that you will utilize these exceptional small businesses by choosing one of a kind options this holiday season and all year long.

I hope this guide will inspire you to “Eat, Shop and Be Merry.”

Ben Wick, Publisher

DECEMBER 2020 • 9

10 • DECEMBER 2020

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

www.simplynorthwest.com

We deliver locally and ship worldwide

DECEMBER 2020 • 11

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Max at Mirabeau Restaurant and Lounge 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 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 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 yummy.

Longhorn Barbecue

True Legends 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.

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!

Craft and Gather 290-5141, 14403 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.

Conley’s Place Restaurant 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.

Shogun 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.

12 • DECEMBER 2020

The Splash

What did Spokane Valley Fire Give our Community this Holiday Season?

Small Business Saturday Millwood Neighborhood Champion Argonne Library invites you to shop local this holiday season Argonne Cycle 3215 N Argonne Rd Bottles Wine and Beer 3223 N Argonne Rd Joe’s House 3117 N Argonne Rd Male Room Precision Haircuts 3309 N Argonne Rd

The Corner Door Fountain and Books 3301 N Argonne Rd The Rocket Bakery 3315 N Argonne Rd

1. SHOP at any of these

Millwood businesses during the week of Nov 28–Dec 5

Millwood Brewing Company 9013 E Frederick

2. GO ONLINE and write

Millwood Spirits and Grocery 3409 N Argonne Rd

3. STOP BY the ARGONNE

Paisley Pooch 3207 N Argonne Rd

a review of the business

LIBRARY (4322 N Argonne Rd) to pick up your prize (while supplies last)

Stockwell’s Chill n Grill 3319 N Argonne Rd

www.scld.org

DECEMBER 2020 • 13

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Mongolian BBQ 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!

Palenques 1102 N Liberty Lake Rd, Libery Lake Palenque Mexican Restaurants est in 1993 owned and operated by Jose “Chuy” and Gena “Mama G” Ceresero. Our Mexican Fare recipes are based out of Jalisco Mexico. Family meal deals and take-out options availble. See our facebook for specials.

Fujiama Japanese Steak House 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.

Marandos Bar and Restaurant 381-5956, 11420 E Sprague, Spokane Valley If you are looking for new foods to try and absolutely love new gastronomic discoveries, Marandos is the ideal spot for your upcoming food journey. Find them on facebook.

Crimson Hearth 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.

Ponderosa Bar and Grill 934-1979, 11205 E Dishman Mica Rd, Spokane Valley The Ponderosa Bar & Grill is a hometown restaurant in the Ponderosa community specializing in all the comfort foods you know and love! Take the Dishman Mica until you get to Barneys grocery store on the left.

Lumpia Loca 599-2279, 14700 E Indianda, Spokane Valley inside the Spokane Valley Mall. Filipino food and culture curbside pickup only

TT’s Old Iron Brewery 919-4798, 4110 S Bowdish, Spokane Valley 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..

Rancho Viejo 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.

14 • DECEMBER 2020

The Splash

Eat, Shop & Be Merry this Holiday Season at

Halletts Market & CafĂŠ, Inc 14109 E. Sprague #2, Spokane Valley, WA 99216

509-926-4076 www.halletts.com

Holiday Gift Boxes - ready for shipping & we will do the shipping for you!

facebook.com/hallettsmarket

BE MERRY: We serve & sell Wine & Beer

Holiday hours start Nov. 27th M-F 10 am - 5pm, sat 10 am -4 pm This year we are offering early morning and private shopping hours 8 am - 10am

SHOP: Tasteful Holiday Gifts for Everyone on your list;

Family, Friends, Employees, Business Associates - we specialize in corporate gifts Holiday Gift Baskets - premade or custom make your own

Brought to you by LCM

store will be closed except for you and a friend or two. free coffee or tea, christmas music and safe hassle free shopping.

Call now to schedule your time.

Curbside pick up available

DECEMBER 2020 • 15

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Shop 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.

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

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

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3. The Bike HUB 443-4005, 12505 E Sprague Ave. #101, Spokane Valley 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. Either way you are sure to find cool gadgets or just the right bike for you.

4. Chocolate Apothecary 324-2424, 11425 E Trent Ave., Spokane Valley Gourmet chocolate, caramels, gelato, coffee, and tea. Bean to Bar Chocolate made in store.

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5. The Bohemian

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309-3236, 16814 Spokane Valley

E

Sprague Ave,

A collection of unique refurbished and handcrafted items ranging from decor and furniture to clothing and skin care. Roam through and find some treasures.

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6. Coin Corner 928-0860, 9215 E Trent, Spokane Valley For over 35 years and through three generations, the Coin Corner has been the go to location for investment coins.

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7. Hallett’s Marketplace and Cafe 926-4076, 14109 E Sprague Ave., #2, Spokane Valley

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The marketplace section of this unique business offers a generous makeup of soup mixes, jams, candles, beverages, dips and the largest variety of huckleberry items, all made in the Pacific Northwest. Crub side pick-up and private shopping options available.

8. Irv’s Rock and Gifts 924-5464, 11907 E Trent Ave., Spokane Valley

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For over 50 years Irv, and now his daughter Liz, have been educating the community on the intricacies of jewelry, rocks, stones and gems. see specials and options on facebook.

9. Pawpular Companions 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

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924-9998, 13210 Spokane Valley

E

Indiana Ave.,

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.

16 • DECEMBER 2020

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11. Greenacres Vendor Mall 309-3236, 16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley

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An eclectic collection of vintage and one of a kind finds that will last for years.

12. Appleway Florist and Gifts 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.

13. Bruttles 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. Online shopping and pick-up available.

14. Brickhouse Coffee Bar

Massage

&

891-1999, 14222 E Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley Whether you are coming in alone, with your sweetheart or with a group of friends, we have the spa package to fit your needs. Give us a call to schedule your perfect BrickHouse spa day today!

15. Lorraine Fine Jewelry 309-3236, 16814 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley Your new neighborhood jewelry store with unique custom pieces and some standard favorites. Join them on Saturdays for champagne while you shop now through Christmas!

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16. Valley Candles Found at Hallett’s Marketplace and Simply Northwest - You can also purchase on Amazon A hobby that turned in to a love and now a thriving business. These candles are crafted with US Soy grown wax that is non-GMM and scented with oils that do not have any harmful chemicals.

17. Hummingbird Eclectic Boutique 473-9815, 17325 E Sprague, Spokane Valley A family owned business where It’s about love, family and cherishing all of our uniqueness’. You can find anywhere from antiques, modern unique items and artisans at our location.

18. The Great NW Vendor Mall 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! If you are looking for a personalized gift we have vendors who can help with that too!

Fill your stockings and your hearts with gifts from our local vendors!

19. Big Bear Chocolates 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.

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DECEMBER 2020 • 17

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13

Offering Home Delivery service now in Spokane and surrounding areas, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Orders must be placed the day before delivery day. To order go to duncanproduce.com You can pre-order online or on your smartphone with the Duncan Produce App found in your App Store.

You can also Just drive up and order for immediate pick up in our drive thru line. Over 100 grocery items available including fresh cut veggies, veggie mixes, dairy, meats, pastas, and more. See our website for a full list.

Follow us on Facebook for specials

69 S Henry Rd • www.duncanproduce.com

509-720-1982

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18 • DECEMBER 2020

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S P O K A N E ’ S P R E M I E R H O L I DAY A T T R A C T I O N

11 fabulous trees and gifts www.spokanesymphonyassoc.org

December 1-13

presented by

Only at River Park Square Visit the tree displays to purchase your raffle tickets.

Online sales are not available due to Washington state regulations.

Safety Measures Enforced - Masks and Social Distancing Required

DECEMBER 2020 • 19

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20. 509 MetalWorks facebook.com/509metalworks

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We specialize in the following services: business signs, small fabrication jobs, customized metal art, home and lawn decor, automotive parts, CNC plasma parts. Contact us to get started on your order!

21. Simply Northwest 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. Curbside pick-up and delivery available.

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22. Tracy Jewelers 893-2929, 106 N Evergreen, Spokane Valley

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Although their slogan may be “where Spokane gets engaged,” engagement rings are far from the only items carried here.

They stock a broad selection of diamond and colored gemstone jewelry along with offering jewelry repair, custom design, restoration and appraisal services.

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23. Fleet Feet 309-2174, 13910 Spokane Valley

E

Indiana

Ave.,

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 and apparel to meet your needs.

24. Hammer and Stain

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309-3345, 3201 N Argonne, Millwood

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Gift items like this charcuterie board available at hammerandstainspokanevalley. com under the “Gift Sets” tab. Projects can be picked up to be completed at home. Call for availability.

25. Cami Lee Designs 862-4731, 21950 E Country Vista Drive, Suite 500, Liberty Lake Whether you want quirky, simple, elegant or charming this jewelry line has all of them covered in a variety of metals and gemstones.

Can be personalized on site until Dec 20, as the retail location is closing.

26. Spokane Gallery 747-0812, 409 S Dishman Mica, Spokane Valley

26 27

We are a full time, 3000 sq ft, Art Gallery, providing a full Custom Frame shop and boutique - showcasing work by over 80 regional artists and national limited edition publishers.

With an ever-changing selection of art, jewelry, pottery, carvings, sculpture, handmade and vintage home decor items, we always have something new to delight the senses.

27. Rebel Junk 360-689-5622, Spokane Valley

4102

S

Bowdish,

Rebel Junk is a traveling vintage flea market with 3 storefront locations which include many vendors who incorporate Vintage, Shabby Chic, Cottage, Farmhouse, Industrial, Antiques, Pottery Barn Style, Painted Furniture, Rusty...

Boho Style, & Retro! Online shopping available at rebeljunk.com. 10-5 Mon. - Sat. Curbside pickup, shipping and delivery available.

20 • DECEMBER 2020

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We make it easy to smile!

Call us to schedule your appointment today!

509-924-0381

919 N Pines Rd. Spokane Valley, WA 99206

www.spokanefamilydental.com info@spokanefamilydental.com

The Splash

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR VALUED ADVERTISING PARTNERS AND LOYAL READERS WHO SUPPORT AND CONNECT OUR COMMUNITY! Affordable Arborist Tree Care Inc Amaculate Housekeeping Amylou Lagaras Attn: Caroline Wright Attn: Rachel Nelken Banner Bank Banner Furnace & Fuel BECU Brand It Advertising Brooke Carey Calla Ferguson Casey Family Dental Central Valley Citizens for Education Central Valley School District City of Liberty Lake City of Spokane Valley Clark’s Tire & Automotive Cornerstone Pentecostal Church CV Theatre Diane Sarber Eagle Rock Rv and Boat Storage East Valley ECEAP Estates and Elders Evergreen Gymnastics Falco’s Family Medicine/Healthy Living Liberty Lake Fieldhouse Pizza Freedom Holdings Friends of Lori Feagan Friends of Mary Kuney Greater Spokane Inc. Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce Greenstone Homes Gus Johnson Ford Hallett’s Market & Cafe Hennessey Valley Funeral Home HUB Sports Center Hummingbird Ignite! Community Theatre Inland Empire Utility Coordinating Council Jim Custer Enterprises John L Scott Real Estate Liberty Lake John Roskelley Judge Staab Kathrine Olson DDS Kiwanis of Liberty Lake Lance Gurel

Larkin Barnett Leonard Christian Liberty Cross Ministries Liberty Lake EyeCare Center Liberty Lake Family Dentistry Liberty Lake Farmers Market Liberty Lake Sewer & Water District Lilac Family Eyecare Marc Rubin - Edward Jones Advisor Martin, Anthony Mattress by Appointment Max J Kuney Co Mica Moon Zip Tours Mike Conrad for State Representative Mike Padden For State Senate Mirabeau Park Hotel Northern Quest Resort & Casino Orchard Crest Retirement Community PACE. (Part of CVSD) Pawpular Companions Pet Supplies Peridot Publishing Peterson, Bruce RAMP - CenturyLink Share Farm Shogun Simonds Dental Group Simply Northwest Spokane County Library District Spokane Family Dental Spokane Furniture Spokane Gymnastics Spokane Train Show Spokane Valley Farmer’s Market Spokane Valley Fire Dept Spokane Valley Heritage Museum Spokane Valley Partners Spokane Valley United Methodist Church STA In House Tate Law Offices The Mat Tri-Community Grange True Legends Grill U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers Duncan Produce Valleyfest Vision Marketing Waste Management of Spokane

s ay id ol H py ap H , as m st ri Ch ry er M and Happy New Year from The Splash and The Current!

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DECEMBER 2020 • 21

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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

Rocket Bakery 3315 N Argonne Rd., Milwood (509) 462-2345 Call in advance to order 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.

Cash & Carry 211 S McKinnon, Spokane Valley (509) 535-7710 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. all to order

22 • DECEMBER 2020

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DECEMBER 2020 • 23

The Splash

brought to you by

Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

Scholar, Athlete, Community Volunteer, Musician – all these and more describe Rebekah Ross. The Central Valley senior maintains a 4.0 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society. She qualified for state in the Science Olympiad and was honored as a Western Aerospace Scholar as well as a National Commended Scholar and a National AP Scholar.

A state-placing gymnast, Ross also competes in track and set the school record in the pole vault. She has been studying piano for 12 years and plays competitively. Ross has volunteered for causes like Blessings Under the Bridge and SCRAPS. She has been a board member with Key Club since her freshman year and is one of two student ambassadors on the board at Spokane Valley Partners Food Bank and Family Services. Ross will attend Brigham Young University on a track scholarship.

Josh Lawson patrolled the defensive backfield for the Central Valley football team last season and earned All Greater Spokane League honorable mention along the way. As a junior free safety, Lawson came up with big plays like an interception in the closing minute of a non-league contest against Garfield that clinched a 40-39 comeback win after CV trailed 33-14 in the fourth quarter. Lawson, who also played receiver, caught a 24-yard touchdown pass in the victory. This season, CV Head Coach Ryan Butner said Lawson “will be a huge part of our offense and defense.” The senior is also a letter-winner in baseball where he was a starting catcher for the Bears’ state-qualifying club last year. He also plays select baseball for the Spokane Expos. In the classroom, Lawson participates in the Running Start program at Spokane Falls Community College.

As the founder of the Liberty Lake Running Club, Kathy Whybrew is adept at making positive strides. She teaches special education at Greenacres Middle School and has been part of the city of Liberty Lake’s Fallen Heroes project honoring veterans. She also helped start the Liberty Lake Tennis Association in 2006 and volunteered for campaigns to establish a new community center and library. A survivor of Follicular Lymphoma, Whybrew is the proud mom of three kids, Emma, Calvin and Nelson.

She and her husband Howard have called Liberty Lake home since 2004.

Whybrew was a teacher at Liberty Lake Children’s Academy from 2007 to 2015.

At Greenacres, Whybrew is known for coordinating projects like creating fleece ear warmers for nonprofit causes and delivering steady helpings of encouragement to her students. She has a degree in education from Purdue University.

THE

&

LIBERTY LAKE

COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

Thanks you for all you do in our community

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24 • DECEMBER 2020

HISTORY

The Splash

DECEMBER 2020 • 25

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Brought to you by

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28 • DECEMBER 2020

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Sloan bears rich CV heritage as player, coach

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

During his days as a standout threesport athlete at Central Valley High School, Rick Sloan never considered coaching a career option.

For Sloan, who grew up rooting for the Bears, a goal like landing in the Washington Interscholastic Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame was even more remote. Yet, this fall, there was Sloan, announced as the latest inductee, joining the likes of CV legends like Ray Thacker and Terry Irwin as well as coaching icons like Judd Heathcote and Marv Harshman.

As a Bear, Sloan was focused on quarterback duties in the fall, becoming the Greater Spokane League’s all-time leading passer. In the winter, Sloan excelled in basketball, leading the GSL in scoring and rebounding as a senior at 21 points and 12 rebounds per game. He was a serviceable pitcher and first baseman in the spring, though remembers turning out mostly to be with his pals and avoid “sitting home after school and doing nothing.”

It wasn’t until Sloan wrapped up a successful college football career – first at San Jose State then the University of Idaho – that coaching became a consideration. He had earned a business degree at Idaho and latched on to a sales job after college – but Sloan saw the rewards of teaching exemplified by his wife Nanci. He returned to school to get a teaching degree at Eastern Washington University and became a graduate assistant coach for the football team.

His first teaching job was in the West Valley School District but CV Head Football Coach Rick Giampietri gave a nudge to administration that “they needed to get Rick into the building” at his alma mater.

“I didn’t want to lose him to West Valley,” Giampietri recalls.

Sloan soon got a call to coach the sophomore boys’ basketball squad. He served as an assistant to Irwin and by the 1996-97 season was at the varsity

helm. Sloan compiled a 331-197 record in 22 seasons, placing second at the 4A state tournament in 2006 and 2012. The run included seven 20-win campaigns.

He retired after the 2017-18 season.

“Rick’s teams always had that toughness – it was a reflection of him,” said University High Head Coach Garrick Phillips who coached against Sloan for 11 years. “I definitely had a respect for Rick and his teams. He never seemed to be rattled. I think it gave a calmness to his players.”

As for his early impressions of coaching, Sloan said it took some seasoning to appreciate the trade.

“It was probably because I didn’t realize how impactful a high school coach can be until after I graduated from college,” said Sloan, an ’81 CV grad. “Once I was older and more reflective, I was able to look back and see how my coaches helped shape me and my future.”

Sloan also found success on the football sidelines as an offensive coordinator known for his creativity and intuition. He joined the CV staff in 1989 and was part of the 1997 state championship squad, the only state football title in school history.

Giampietri remembers Sloan’s play calling in the first drive of the state semi-final game that year against topranked and undefeated Puyallup as the catalyst in a 10-0 victory.

“Rick had put it together and scripted it,” Giampietri said. “That drive was huge. We got a field goal out of it and took the lead, plus it took up seven or eight minutes and kept their offense off the field.”

Sloan would add a special play to the game plan almost every week, incorporating imaginative ideas like giving a tackle an eligible number so he could be incorporated into a pass formation.

“Rick was always looking for an edge,” Giampietri said. “He called a great game. It was like having a head coach as an assistant. He had some fourth down calls that were unbelievable.”

Sloan was a good enough signal caller in high school to draw college offers. He decided on San Jose State after a visit to campus and dinner with Head Coach Jack Elway and his son John, the starting quarterback at Stanford bound for a Hall of Fame career in the NFL. Dennis Erickson was the offensive

Contributed photo Rick Sloan graduated from Central Valley High School in 1981 and went on to play quarterback at San Jose State and the University of Idaho. He is shown above in a 41-22 win over Oregon State as a junior. Sloan returned to CV as an assistant coach for boys’ basketball and was named head coach in 1996.

coordinator at San Jose State at the time and when he accepted the head coaching role at Idaho, Sloan followed.

His senior season in 1985, Sloan led the Vandals to a 9-2 record and their first outright Big Sky championship since 1971. He was named second team All Big Sky and earned a non-drafted invite to the Los Angeles Raiders’ training camp where he practiced alongside players like Marcus Allen, Howie Long and Matt Millen before being released after four weeks.

“It was pretty cool,” Sloan recalls.

“That was a good team.”

At CV, Sloan stepped away from football after the state trophy in 1997 to focus on basketball. He returned to the gridiron in 2008 and later coached his son Tanner, a quarterback who threw for over 4,000 yards. Rick and Nanci also have a daughter, Mackenzie.

Sloan’s teams on the hardcourt were known for relentless defense and unselfish play. The 2005-06 squad placed fifth in the GSL but went on a post-season run that included upsets of Gig Harbor and South Kitsap at state before losing to a Franklin squad full of Division 1 recruits in the final.

“That year was an example of how Rick had his teams prepared to play,” said Mike Laws, a longtime Sloan assistant and current CV head coach.

“He always put the team before the individual. He was also really good at scouting a team and identifying what we had to do to take away their strengths.”

Laws said he never recalls Sloan swearing at a player.

“That wasn’t him,” Laws said. “He just had high expectations of players.”

Sloan’s big brother Ron was a year ahead of him in school and also excelled in sports at CV. Twenty years ago, Ron passed away from cancer, leaving a void for Sloan.

“I still miss him a lot,” Sloan says.

“You realize that every day is a gift.”

Sloan still teaches P.E. and team sports at CV and says he stepped down from coaching “because after 30 years, it was time to pass the torch to someone else,” adding that Laws “has done a great job and will continue to do so.”

“The relationships built with my players was something I will always cherish,” Sloan said. “I enjoyed coaching so much that I would have done it for free. Just that idea of building a team.”

DECEMBER 2020 • 29

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– An Optimistic Outlook for Liberty Lake Residents and Commuters

By Tie Lemerond Splash contributor

Located in Eastern Washington, just a 20-minute drive to Downtown Spokane and Coeur D’Alene, ID., the city of Liberty Lake is growing exponentially. Unlike Spokane, whose population is increasing at a rate of less than 1% annually, and less than 7% since 2010, the population in Liberty Lake is soaring at the rate of nearly 7% annually, and nearly 60% since 2010. These climbing numbers mean more commuters on the roads and interstate, and with this growth comes construction, lots and lots of construction.

After years on the drawing table, Liberty Lake is set to begin back to back major road construction projects. These projects take multiple years to plan and execute funding, coordinate design and Right of Way (ROW) work, bid through the selective process, and construct. Liberty Lake City Engineer, Ben Schmitt, states, “It requires input and approval from

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Simonds Dental Group

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Service Directory

SERVICE DIRECTORY TREE SERVICE AFFORDABLE ARBORIST 83 ft. Backyard Lift • Removals • Thinning • Pruning Shaping • Lot Clearing • Stump Grinding Residential & Commercial • A+ Rated BBB Member Affordable Arborist Tree Care, Inc. 509-879-0577 • Veteran Owned & Operated WA Lic#AFFORAT935KG

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The Splash multiple state agencies, utilities, and stakeholders…There are a number of safety and design checks that must be performed by multiple parties to ensure the final roadway is safe and effective for the community.”

Barker Road Project: The Barker Road project was one of the three components of the Connecting Washington Transportation Package. It was completed this year and is fully functional. The remaining two projects: The Harvard Bridge Expansion, and the Henry Road Overpass, are on schedule to begin soon.

Harvard Bridge Expansion: In 2016, CH2M conducted a traffic study which identified the bridge expansion as being a priority.

The project was put out to bid and awarded to N.A. Degerstrom of Spokane Valley, for $2.9 million.

The City of Liberty Lake budgeted $100,000 for the preliminary design of the bridge and Washington Department of Transportation contributed $800,000 to the project.

The remaining balance will come from a multitude of other resources.

Slated to begin within the next week or two, the Harvard Bridge Expansion will add an additional northbound lane over I-90 in order to reduce the lines of traffic seen on Liberty Lake Road and Appleway Avenue. It will also alleviate the bottleneck Liberty Lake experiences every afternoon. Citizens will begin to see staging of equipment and work happening around the base of the bridge on I-90, but there should be minimal impacts to traffic across the bridge throughout the rest of 2020 and into the early part of 2021.

The “deck” work is anticipated to begin early next year. This will involve lane shifts across the bridge as the new lane is added (on the west side), and the existing lanes are resurfaced. Commuters will be able to traverse the bridge in both directions during day to day operations. Construction will last through the summer of 2021.

Schmitt states, “We can all do our part to ensure the safety of work crews by obeying all work zone signs, slowing down for workers, being patient and planning alternative routes while this critical infrastructure is being built.”

Henry Road Overpass: The Henry Rd project is currently in the 90% design phase, with a dedicated team working on the

ON THAT NOTE

DECEMBER 2020 • 31

Contributed photo Harvard Road Bridge expansion project is slated to begin inthe next couple of weeks. project daily. Lochner Engineering of Spokane is the engineering firm on this project, and it is estimated to cost about $14.5 million. The City of Liberty Lake’s contribution is $6 million, and the remainder of the funding is coming from the Taxincrement financing (TIF) & Local Infrastructure Financing Tools (LIFT) funds through the River District.

Portions of the Henry Road Overpass will begin during the final phase of the Harvard Road Overpass project with the majority of the work beginning after the completion of that project.

“There is a great benefit in staging the Barker Rd, Harvard Rd, and Henry Rd Bridge projects in

separate years to aid in traffic flow and budgeting,” states Schmitt.

Additional Upcoming Projects: In addition to the major road projects listed above, the City of Liberty Lake has several other projects in store for 2020 and 2021.

The Ridgeline Traffic Signal project received 70% of its funding through the 2020 TIB grant and will be going in at the entrance of Ridgeline High School and Country Vista Drive.

Country Vista & Legacy Ridge Intersection Improvements will consist of a new traffic signal and pedestrian crossings. Construction is planned for 2021.

Pavillion Park Irrigation

System Replacement: Main lines will be installed in 2020, and branch lines will be installed in Spring 2021. Residents will see irrigation construction activities being performed by Continental Contractors. All work should be completed for residents prior to the 2021 summer park season.

Additionally, The City of Liberty Lake will be working on a Sidewalk Masterplan in 2021 to identify areas where they can improve connectivity throughout the city.

Schmitt ended the interview with this request, “Please drive safely through the construction zones and around the construction workers.

Once the projects are completed, they will work.”

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