2023 November Splash

THE

NOVEMBER

LIBERTY LAKE

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2 • NOVEMBER 2023

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DOCKSIDE grandson. While on a drive banner-lined street was incredibly Steve Peterson who recommended through the suburb of Gretna, impressive. Gretna was clearly he contact Bob Wiese, the Marine Voice for Vets his Walker noticed the light standards honoring and thanking their vet who coordinated the Fallen – Walker paved on main street festooned with hometown veterans. It was very Heroes Circuit Course that honors a

way for Hometown Heroes

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

banners and American flags.

“Each banner pictured a Gretna veteran and had a picture and information about when and where they served,” Walker said. “The

moving and inspired me to take action to see if we could make this happen at Liberty Lake.”

When he returned to Liberty Lake, Walker contacted former Mayor

The banners along Country Vista Drive are emblazoned with faces reflecting valor, courage and commitment to country.

“It was an easy sell to everyone,” Walker said.

The town that inspired the idea was also a valuable resource that led to Liberty Lake’s version of the remembrance banners making their debut last year along Country Vista Drive.

Some, like Richard Walker, gave the ultimate sacrifice as part of their service.

Don Walker was a sophomore at Eastern Washington University, enlisted in the ROTC, when news of his brother’s death in Vietnam reached Spokane. Richard was only 22 years old.

“Gretna was incredible as they showed us a path to get it done and showed us what not to do,” Walker said.

The first rendition of Liberty Lake Hometown Heroes featured five World War veterans. 10 Vietnam War veterans, two people currently serving, three veterans who were killed in action, three Silver Star Award recipients, seven Bronze Star recipients and six Purple Heart recipients.

“January 15, 1968,” Don recalls.

“It had a big impact on everything else.”

Don went on to graduate from EWU with a degree in psychology and report to officer training school in Ft. Benning, Georgia. He would serve in the Army for three years as an infantry airborne jump master but never see combat.

The banners go up before Memorial Day and are taken down after Veterans Day with help from Avista. This year’s rendition includes 40 Hometown Heroes. Walker said 10 to 15 will be added next year. All have local connections.

“I expected to go, was ready to go, had orders to go but didn’t go,” Walker said.

Others in Walker’s circle lost their lives in Vietnam, including a close friend and fellow graduate of North Central High School. When the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall made a stop in Liberty Lake at Pavillion Park last year, Walker paid tribute along with crowds of hushed and respectful onlookers.

Like Dg Garcia, the local veteran and former member of the Liberty Lake City Council, who took the initiative to bring the Moving Wall to her community, Walker had an epiphany of his own just over two years ago that would lead to the establishment of Hometown Heroes in Liberty Lake.

It was June of 2021 and Walker was in Omaha, Nebraska, visiting

local member of each branch of the military who died in service. The Liberty Lake Centennial Rotary, city of Liberty Lake and Avista all stepped up quickly to support the cause.

“It’s been a lot of work but it’s just what you do,” he said. “I’m proud we’re doing what we’re doing.”

Photo by Craig Howard Liberty Lake resident and U.S. Army veteran Don Walker stands in front of the Hometown Heroes banner paying tribute to his older brother Richard who died while serving in Vietnam. A tireless advocate for veterans, Walker was the catalyst behind the Hometown Heroes program in Liberty Lake. He also is integral to an online resource guide called Veterans Help Net and helps to coordinate a pair of veteran-related publications that appear in the SpokesmanReview and Coeur d’Alene Press.

Long before Hometown Heroes became a new tradition in Liberty Lake, Walker was a devoted advocate for veterans. He teamed up with friend and Vietnam vet Brian Bledsoe five years ago in partnering with the SpokesmanReview and Coeur d’Alene Press to get insert publications – the Veterans Chronicle and Veterans Press – included in each newspaper.

“It’s had a tremendous impact,” See WALKER, Page 4

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WALKER

Continued from page 2 Walker said. “You see people carrying papers into resource centers.”

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Another project – Veterans Help Net, an online resource guide – came about after Walker attended a Washington State University football game in Pullman on Dad’s Day. The “Dad of the Year” was acknowledged at halftime with a tribute that celebrated the honoree as a veteran, noting his daughter was enrolled at WSU on his G.I. Bill.

“That was the first I’d heard of that (resource),” Walker recalls. “I realized if I didn’t know that, most don’t know. I realized we had to find a way to get those messages out there.”

Walker grew up on the north side of Spokane after his family moved to the Inland Northwest from Fargo, North Dakota when he was 5. He attended St. Aloysius Gonzaga Catholic School and North Central High School where he excelled in wrestling. He was one of four boys in his family.

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Don and his wife Nancy moved to Liberty Lake from Spokane Valley in 1997. They have five children and 11 grandkids in their combined family.

“We found a lot and built a home,” Walker said. “We just liked the whole idea of Liberty Lake.”

Walker retired in 2014 after a successful career in the mortgage industry and real estate. His first plunge into volunteering came with Newby-ginnings of North Idaho in Post Falls which provides basic necessities and essential household items to veterans, active military and their families at no cost. The nonprofit was started by Theresa Hart in honor of her son, Nick Newby, who was killed in Iraq in 2011 while serving with the Idaho National Guard.

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“I wanted to volunteer with a group that supports the military,” Walker said.

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Q: What kind of feedback have you received about the Hometown Heroes project since it premiered in Liberty Lake last year?

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A: When we were putting the banners up, a six-man crew came out from Avista with big trucks.

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We went into Yoke’s to buy them lunch and one of the daughters of a banner recipient came up and hugged us and was crying. She was so moved to see her dad’s banner on the street. All day long cars passed us honking and waving. On May 20th of this year, as a kick-off to the banner raising, a special event was held at Ridgeline High. There were nearly 200 attendees. We introduced all the Banner Heroes and thanked the many folks that made this happen. The family and friends were able to take pictures with the Heroes banners. Lots of smiles, hugs and tears. Liberty lake is proud of their Hometown Heroes and thrilled by the banners and flags.

Q: You’ve seen public perception of the military fluctuate over the years since you were part of the ROTC in college and Vietnam generated a range of responses. Where do you think civilian opinion of our national defense stands today?

A: Ever since 9/11, the U.S. has seen a massive change in attitude and gratitude for our veterans.

People are standing proud at our National Anthem and the whole nation seems to understand the value and the sacrifices made by our military men and women. It is so different from the Vietnam War years and really uplifting to all of our veterans, past and present.

Q: How much does the memory of your late brother Richard and your efforts to honor him propel your work to help veterans?

A: Over the past years of wars and conflicts many of us have lost family and friends serving in our military. The impacts to the family and friends and communities are devastating and incredibly personal. The death of my oldest brother in Vietnam impacted everything about my life and I am sure this is true for the thousands of other family and friends of those killed in the line of duty. I am sure it has had a significant influence on my choice to work to help Veterans find “Hope and Help.”

Q: When you launched Veterans Help Net several years ago, what did you learn about the state of resources for the average veteran and just how accessible those programs and benefits were to those who needed them?

NOVEMBER 2023 • 5

The Splash A: This question is answered best with an excerpt from this editorial article: VETERANS HELP WHAT WE LEARNED.

NET...

(See the complete article in this month’s Veterans Day editions for the Veterans Chronicle in Spokesman-Review and Veterans Press in Coeur d’Alene Press.) a. Most veterans and families were not aware of many of the benefits and services they have earned with their service. b. Many veterans think the process is too hard so many never tried. c.

Many veterans found it difficult to get started so they quit trying to get help. d. Most did not know how to start the process of getting their benefits or obtaining VA medical help. e. Many veterans did not seek help because they thought other veterans needed or deserved it more and thought that they would be “taking someone’s place in line.”

All we do, every day, every month and every year, is trying to provide “Hope and Help” for our veterans through our actions and the information and awareness in our monthly veterans publications.

Q: What were some of your takeaways from the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall and the

time it spent in our community last year?

A: The impacts of the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall can be seen not by looking at the Wall and the names but by looking at the people visiting the Wall. Each one has a life story that is tied to the names on the Wall. You can see it in their faces and actions.

Liberty Lake is truly a veteranhonoring community. This was represented dramatically last year with the visit of the Moving Wall, the establishment of the Liberty Lake Hometown Heroes banners as well as the existing Fallen Heroes Circuit Course, the Memorial Day and Veterans Day breakfast events and so many groups and events that the community sponsors and supports. I would never want to live anywhere else in the world.

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Q: We all know Veterans Day as a national holiday in November but what can the average citizen do to make it a day that truly honors and celebrates veterans?

A: Attend an event and listen to the stories.

Q: Finally, what has been the most rewarding part of your work as an advocate on behalf of veterans?

A: The most rewarding part of this work is finding and meeting incredible people doing significant and important things to find “Hope and Help” for our veterans.

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Introducing the (Traffic/Criminal/Non-Criminal)

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51

7 Safety Awareness Channel

ving Under Influence)

Vehicle Prowls / Vehicle Theft / Suspicious Vehicles 28 s Police Report Significant Cases

- Sept. 2023

s Mischief Total incidents generated by Splash news sources

Officers and emergency calls for service last month 571

Update on 2023-88004190 Injury Collision/DUI/Vehicular Assault, 08/03/2023: Detectives were able to interview the injured driver, who was subsequently arrested.

He was booked into Spokane County Jail for Vehicular Assault, Reckless Endangerment and Reckless Driving due to his reckless disregard for the safety of others, including his infant child. Pending toxicology results, DUI charges may be forthcoming as well. Both the driver and infant child had significant injuries due to the collision.

Traffic Collisions/Hit & / RunsSimple / t /Injury Assault DV Assault / Collisions 5 Citations (Traffic/Criminal/Nonw/aCriminal) Weapon 51 DUI (Driving Under Influence) 7

Thefts / Vehicle Prowls / Vehicle Violations Theft / Burglaries 18 Malicious Mischief 2

Argument / Assault DV / Simple Assault / Assault w/a Weapon 8

us Vehicles

Parking Violations

1

2023-88004810 09/03/2023:

Voyeurism,

18

Officers spoke with a victim who reported that they had discovered their spouse had been secretly recording videos in the bathrooms of their home. Detectives spoke with the victim and determined that the victim had located numerous photos and videos that had been taken of, not only themselves, but other friends and family that had visited the home and used the bathrooms. Detectives contacted multiple victims, who were all unaware they had been recorded.

They subsequently arrested the suspect who was booked into Spokane County Jail on multiple counts of Voyeurism.

2

8

1

2023-88005136, 09/20/2023:

Officers received a report from a concerned citizen who had observed an individual having sexual contact

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with one of the goats at a city park.

Officers were unable to locate the suspect at that time and stood by until the goats were moved to a safe location. Detectives conducted follow up and subsequently arrested a juvenile for Animal Cruelty.

2023-88005208 DUI, Malicious Mischief, Eluding 09/24/2023: Officers responded to the 700 block of N Molter Road regarding a vehicle driving recklessly in the grass.

When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, it fled into Idaho with officers in pursuit, then came back into Washington before hitting spike strips and eventually yielding to officers.

The driver was arrested for Eluding, DUI, Reckless Endangerment (due to the passengers in the vehicle), Malicious Mischief and DWLS 2.

NOVEMBER 2023 • 7

The Splash

The Lookout Applications being accepted for city’s commissions

Would you like to actively bring your leadership, expertise and interest in a specific area of community service to Liberty Lake’s residents?

Terms are expiring for positions on several of the city of Liberty Lake’s volunteer commissions at the end of 2023 and the city clerk is taking applications from residents who may be interested in applying to be on one of those groups.

term expiring in December.

This group studies and makes recommendations about the city’s future growth, comprehensive plan and development codes.

The city’s Planning Commission has three vacancies plus one

And the Community Engagement

The city’s Parks and Arts Commission has three terms that are expiring at the end of December. This group reviews and recommends proposals for Liberty Lake’s recreation, park and public arts programs.

Commission has four terms that are expiring at the end of the year, as well as current openings in two of its geographic-based positions. This group explores ways to promote public awareness and involvement in city programs and projects.

The city’s website has more information about the duties of each commission at www.libertylakewa. gov under the “Your Government” menu.

Each commission’s web page includes a link for the City Advisory Board & Commission Application form for those who may have interest in joining any of these groups.

November 2023

More art at Pavillion Park!

Following the recent completing of the court mural at the basketball hoops at Pavillion Park, the neighboring activity site to its north has also gained a new collection of colors. Artist Joshua Thomas began work on Sept. 15 on pairing the structures at the Pavillion’s skate park area. The project was funded through the Liberty Lake Parks and Arts Commission.

Coming up on the city’s “Liberty Lake Deep Dive” podcast...

The city’s podcast series nears its 20th episode with the recent and upcoming installments listed below. Episodes are available on Spotify and Google Podcasts and through the city’s website and Facebook site. * “The Mayor’s 2024 Budget Report” – A presentation of the annual report about the past year’s accomplishments and future year’s plans that Mayor Cris Kaminskas delivered during the Oct. 17 City Council meeting. * “It’s Leaf and Beach Dropoff Season!”

– Environmental manager Jeremy Jenkins of the Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District shares details about this annual fall service from the LLSWD – and delves into some stats and history about the program * “Top 10 Grown-Up Novel Checkouts at the Library” (posting early November) – Mikayla Kittilstved of the Liberty

Lake Municipal Library counts down the top 10 most popular checkouts from 2022. * “Winter Glow Spectacular!”

(posting late November) – Volunteer Mark Saba offers the inside information about the annual creation of the always-

stunning attraction at Orchard Park, including what’s new for 2023.

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

8 • NOVEMBER 2023

WINTER IS ON ITS WAY!

We’ve got everything to keep you warm and dry this winter.

NEWS

Mayor’s 2024 budget includes inaugural Public Works department

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

When she served as a representative of the Liberty Lake City Council, Cris Kaminskas made it a point to raise her hand when the annual budget cycle took center stage at City Hall.

“I was always the one who asked the most questions,” she said.

Now, as a mayor tackling her third budget go-around, Kaminskas is as thorough as ever.

“For me, it’s about budgeting for the long-term,” she said. “I’m looking at process improvement, strategic planning and trying to make things more efficient.”

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City Council heard the mayor’s proposed 2024 budget at their Oct. 17 meeting. The governing board has until Dec. 19 to approve the financial game plan for next year, although a first read of the final budget is slated for Nov. 21 with passage potentially happening as early as Dec. 5.

Kaminskas is recommending the city form its first-ever Public Works department with a director to be hired late in the first quarter or early in the second quarter of 2024. The workload would spin off from the existing Operations and Maintenance department with 20 percent branching away from Planning, Engineering and Building Services, 30 percent from streets and 50 percent from capital projects.

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departments trying to manage the demand for services and always trying to catch up,” he said. “With a growing city, this is an area that requires dedicated time and expertise.”

There was also major news in the tax front in the mayor’s address, starting with Kaminskas revisiting the idea to replace the existing 3-percent utility tax with a 0.1 percent sales tax (10 cents on a $100 purchase) with revenue going toward the Street Maintenance Fund.

“This will ease the burden on our city residents and businesses and spread the cost of maintenance to those shopping in the city limits,” Kaminskas said. “The council will make that final decision during their budget review.”

On the property tax front, the mayor is proposing no change in the rate for the third year in a row. The rate for 2023 stood at 96 cents per $1,000 of property tax valuation and is expected to decrease to 86 cents per $1,000 with new construction.

“In 2023, property tax revenue paid for 100 percent of the library and 42.7 percent of the police department,” Kaminskas said. “In 2024, it will pay for 100 percent of the library and 40 percent of the police department.”

Sales tax revenue continues to be the driving force in the municipal budget. Last year, the city projected $5.9 million in revenue for 2023 but Dixon said that number will be closer to $6.2 million by the time the year is over.

“Our goal is to be very conservative with our revenue projections and a little pessimistic on our expenses,” Kaminskas said.

Finance Director Kyle Dixon said the idea of establishing a stand-alone Public Works department has been on the table since he started with the city in 2021.

The city will begin 2024 with a beginning general fund balance of $7.6 million, 38 percent higher than the starting point in 2023. Cash reserves for the general fund are required to be at least 20 percent of budgeted operating revenue. The city will start off 2024 at 46 percent while the restricted reserve fund carries a balance of around 15 percent as required by ordinance.

“Right now, we’ve got outside

On the spending side, general

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NOVEMBER 2023 • 9

NEWS

fund expenses are budgeted at $14 million for next year compared to $14.4 in 2023. The anticipated 2024 general fund ending balance is $5.5 million.

department heads is vital.

In addition to establishing the inaugural Public Works department, Kaminskas also mentioned several more staff shake-ups in 2024, including the elimination of a full-time IT position. The role would be absorbed through an expanded contract with Executech, the city’s existing IT consulting group. The mayor said it would add “a higher level of day-to-day support and strategic planning for IT.”

Dixon added that the goal is to collect input from each municipal department – Executive, Finance, Library, Planning/Engineeing, Parks, Maintenance/Operations and Police Department – and “get all the information condensed into readable, digestible material.” This year’s proposed budget checks in at 180 pages, 10 pages less than last year.

A full-time procurement position is also recommended in next year’s budget, specifically to address large-scale needs for capital projects.

“We need someone who’s kind of a pro at that,” Kaminskas said.

Other recommendations on the staff side for 2024 include: • Two additional full-time police officers • Code and Regulations Enforcement reporting to Planning, Engineering and Building Services while working with the Police Department • Conversion of current contract building inspector and administrative assistant positions to direct full-time employees.

• Associate planner • 30-hour per week librarian in fourth quarter • Recreation coordinator in second quarter • Parks superintendent in second quarter • Additional FTE and one seasonal position for Trailhead City Administrator Mark McAvoy will present council with an overview of the organizational chart this month that the mayor said will focus on “cost-recovery positions and making things more efficient.”

As Kaminskas begins work on next year’s budget for the upcoming year each summer, she said detailed feedback from

“The key is open communication from directors because they know when they’ve reached a tipping point,” she said.

“City leaders have indicated what they would like to see in this document,” Dixon said.

Kaminskas referred to a list of major capital projects that were completed in 2023, including the Kramer Overpass, Trailhead Pro Shop, parking lot and amenities and the Public Works building.

Other highlights from this year included the first installments of the Citizen’s Academy, reconvening of the Civil Service Commission and adoption of ZenCity software to improve community engagement.

The ambitious agenda for 2024 includes a trio of master plans for sidewalks, city facilities and the remaining 4.4 acres at Town Square Park. The lighter capital projects schedule features installation of new netting and poles at the Trailhead driving range, resurfacing of Rocky Hill courts, Orchard Park storage expansion for WinterGlow, intersection improvements at Country Vista and Appleway and the interior design for a future library at 23129 E. Mission.

Kaminskas said she anticipates council reviewing the proposed budget over the next six to eight weeks, evaluating priorities and requesting changes and additions based on those priorities. Public hearings will also be part of the road to an approved budget.

“Community input is very important in this process and I encourage all of you to participate whether it be in person, by Zoom or by emailing the council and me,” the mayor said.

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COVER STORY

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PhosphorusFree Pioneers – A Timeline Laundry detergent • 1989: LLSWD passed Resolution 40-89 banning phosphorus in laundry detergent.

• 1993: Nationwide phosphorus in laundry detergent ban adopted.

• 1994: Spokane County and the city of Spokane joined LLSWD and others to support a statewide ban on phosphorus in laundry detergents that passed the Washington State Legislature.

Dishwasher detergents • 2005: LLSWD passed Resolution 23-05 banning phosphorus in automatic dishwasher detergent. LLSWD became the first utility to ban phosphorus dishwasher detergents.

• 2008: Bans on phosphorus in automatic dishwasher detergent in Spokane, Whatcom and Clark counties followed.

• 2009: Proctor and Gamble (makers of Cascade) silently and without “Green” marketing removed phosphorus from its detergent formulations.

• 2010: Sixteen years after the statewide ban on phosphorus laundry detergents, the Washington State Legislature extended the ban statewide on automatic dishwasher detergents containing phosphorus. Washington was the 16th state to ban automatic dishwasher detergent containing phosphorous. By 2010, all major detergent companies had now removed phosphorus from their formulations.

• Proctor and Gamble announced a plan to eliminate all phosphates from its laundry detergent worldwide within the next two years. Proctor and Gamble products represent one quarter of the global detergent market.

Phosphorus fertilizer ban • 2005: LLSWD passed Resolution 46-05 banning phosphorus in lawn fertilizer

Contributed photo Aerial view of the Liberty Lake Sewer Water District Treatment facility which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023.

within the watershed of Liberty Lake.

• 2008: Several community groups and governments from the Spokane area began working to establish a statewide ban on lawn fertilizers containing phosphorus: the Washington Lakes Protection Association (WALPA), Environmental Priorities Coalition, Scotts Miracle-Gro, Fred Meyer, LLSWD, Lake Whatcom, Avista, Inland Empire Paper, The Lands Council, Spokane Riverkeeper, and the city of Spokane.

• 2009: LLSWD amended the resolution (Resolution 1809) banning phosphorus in lawn fertilizer district-wide.

• 2010: The Lands Council proposed a phosphorus fertilizer ban as an environmental community priority for the 2011 Washington State Legislative session.

• 2011: Washington State passed “Clean Fertilizers, Healthier Lakes and Rivers” legislation (ESHB 1489) into law.

Washington was the eighth state to pass fertilizer legislation. That year, Gov. Gregoire signed the bill into law but it did not become effective until Jan. 1, 2013. In response to these laws, companies that make fertilizers have reformulated their products.

Utility Nobility – LLSWD celebrates half century of the utility’s inaugural trio of stewardship incommissioners.

By Craig Howard

Splash Contributing Editor

The crowd in the waiting room at the hypothetical surprise 50th birthday party for the Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District (LLSWD) resembles a who’s who of environmental and utility entities that would rival any gathering of the Sierra Club.

They are all there – the Spokane Aquifer Joint Board, Washington Department of Ecology, Spokane Regional Health District and more.

Even the feds show up with a multilayered birthday cake that wishes LLSWD “Congrats on 50 Years from Your Friends at the Environmental Protection Agency!”

They have each made the feigned journey to Liberty Lake to salute the only utility in the state of Washington that provides water and sewer services to a city and unincorporated area, while managing a well-used lake. They share stories of the watery roots of LLSWD going back to 1973 when a burgeoning community supported a pair of ballot measures to establish a special purpose district and vote

One of those original commissioners – Skip Toreson – has lived on Lilac Lane near the shores of the lake with his wife Karen for the past 51 years. He tells stories of high-priced attorneys from Seattle representing local developers who bullied district brass in the early days. Spokane County also became a thorn in the district’s side during the formative years while a good chunk of residents around the lake were less than keen on the idea of replacing time-worn septic tanks with a modern sewer system.

“There were some tense moments,” said Toreson who served on the LLSWD Board from 1973 to 1989. “But most of the times were positive. We felt like we were making progress. What’s most rewarding is just the fact that we had the gumption as a community to vote ourselves into a district, tax ourselves and take on the work for the last 50 years.”

LLSWD General Manager BiJay Adams oversees the current version of a utility that covers a service area of 5,000 acres and includes over 4,500 water and nearly 4,000 sewer

The Splash connections.

“Water and sewer utilities are taken for granted but we do the same thing power companies do,” Adams said. “We have a staff that works 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year for our customers.”

As the golden birthday celebration begins, the guests in the waiting room echo similar sentiments.

Plaudits from SRHD Michael LaScuola with the Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) remembers approaching LLSWD several years ago as part of the Spokane River Regional Toxic Task Force, a group addressing the eradication of contaminants in the Inland Northwest’s main waterway.

True to its reputation as a reliable environmental steward, LLSWD jumped in head first.

“The district was open to testing stormwater and wastewater with the Department of Ecology,” LaScuola recalls. “They’ve always been extremely responsive to environmental concerns.”

The results from Liberty Lake earned glowing reviews.

“It was very refreshing to see a community be as contaminant-free as it was,” LaScuola said.

Now in his 38th years as an environmental health specialist, LaScuola described the partnership between the agency and LLSWD as “a legacy connection.” The two entities have worked together as development occurs in Liberty Lake, making sure wells and septic systems are properly decommissioned. Lee Mellish, who served as LLSWD general manager prior to Adams, was SRHD administrator before transitioning to the utility field.

“There’s an enthusiasm and pride that everyone who works at the district has,” said LaScuola.

“They are doing things the right way. It’s always a pleasure to work with the district because they’re always so proactive. I can always say that folks in Liberty Lake are getting all they pay for in terms of quality service.”

Ovation from Ecology Phosphorus may be an essential nutrient found as a component in bones, teeth, DNA and RNA – but too much phosphorus in lakes, rivers and oceans leads to trouble. The EPA warns that excessive phosphorus causes increased growth of algae

COVER STORY

and large aquatic plants, leading to a condition called eutrophication, characterized by plummeting levels of dissolved oxygen, a hazard to aquatic life. Algae blooms are also a byproduct of phosphorus overload, spawning algal blooms harmful to humans and animals.

Brook Beeler, regional director of the Washington Department of Ecology, can tell you all about the risks of phosphorus as well as the pioneering efforts of LLSWD to eliminate it in products like dishwasher detergent, laundry soap and fertilizer. The district’s efforts have led to revolutionary phosphorus bans and product changes on the state, national and worldwide level. (See “PhosphorusFree Pioneers” sidebar.)

“The district has been integral all along the way in getting phosphorus out of products where it’s not needed,” Beeler said. “It’s a tiny district in a sea of water and sewer districts that’s an example to the rest of the state.”

LLSWD and Ecology have teamed up on a number of initiatives including the Watershed Pledge, a program designed to reduce pollution into the Spokane River, Spokane-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer and Liberty Lake watershed from residential and commercial sources.

Promotion of the program featured LLSWD’s signature education and outreach efforts.

“The district is a partner, a sounding board and a trusted voice,” Beeler said. “They’ve been on the leading edge of a lot of tough topics and an excellent representative for their community.”

Applause from Aquifer Board Tonilee Hanson remembers when LLSWD shook up things on the landscaping front outside the Denny Ashlock Building, their administrative home in Liberty Lake whose namesake served as one of the first district commissioners.

The turf that required consistent watering was replaced by xeriscaping, defined by native and drought-resistant plants, river rock, decorative stone and pea gravel.

“They walk the talk,” said Hanson, program manager for the Spokane Aquifer Joint Board. “They were modeling what the community could do to preserve water.”

Hanson

said

LLSWD

has

See LLSWD, Page 13

NOVEMBER 2023 • 11

Special Purpose Trophy Case – LLSWD awards over the years 1988 – U.S. EPA Region 10 Award for Superior Service – In recognition of outstanding leadership in lake restoration, protection of groundwater supplies and Spokane River water quality improvement.

1997 – Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award – Washington State Department of Ecology.

2002 – District of the Year Award for Industry Achievement and Meritorious Service – Washington State Association of Sewer and Water Districts.

2006 – Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award – Washington State Department of Ecology.

2006 – Wastewater Treatment Plant Innovation Solutions Recognition – Washington State Department of Ecology.

2008 – Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award – Washington State Department of Ecology; Mike Schmidt Muddy Boots Award – American Water Works Association/Inland Empire Subsection.

2009 – Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award – Washington State Department of Ecology, 2010 – Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award – Washington State Department of Ecology; Dan Grogg Operator of the Year Award – Pacific Northwest Clean Water Association; Lee Mellish Manager of the Year Award – Washington Association of Sewer and Water Districts.

2011 – Award for Three Consecutive Years of Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award –

Washington State Association of Sewer and Water Districts; BiJay Adams Award of Special Recognition – Washington Association of Sewer and Water Districts.

2014 – BiJay Adams receives Secchi Disk award from the Washington State Lake Protection Association.

2015 – Best Tasting Water Award – American Water Works Association Inland Empire Subsection; Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award – Washington State Department of Ecology.

2017 – Best Tasting Water Award – American Water Works Association Inland Empire Subsection; EPA WATERS Award from EPA Region 10 for the Eastside Liberty Lake Improvement Club Consolidation Project; Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award – Washington State Department of Ecology.

2018 – Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award – Washington State Department of Ecology.

2019 – EPA Region 10 PISCES and AQUARIUS honoree for outstanding projects supported

by Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds; Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award – Washington State Department of Ecology.

2020 – Best Tasting Water Award – American Water Works Association/Inland Empire Subsection; Mike “Andre” West Muddy Boots Award – American Water Works Association/Inland Empire Subsection.

12 • NOVEMBER 2023

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Continued from page 11 historically impacted not only its own service area but focused on the bigger picture.

“They understand the importance of having a regional conversation that will convey the same message from purveyor to purveyor,” she said. “They’re educating the general public.”

Jeremy Jenkins, LLSWD environmental manager, currently serves as president of the Spokane Aquifer Joint Board while Adams is vice president of the Idaho/ Washington Aquifer Collaboration.

“The district has leaders and models who are humble about what the work they’re doing,” Hanson said. “It’s not about drawing attention to themselves. They’re focused on community concerns and solutions.”

Contributed photo Liberty Lake Sewer and Water employees routinely take samples from Liberty Lake so that the district can help maintain the clean and clear water system through Liberty Lake.

Ripple Effect Katy Allen moved to Liberty Lake with her husband and kids in 1983. Years later, after successful stops in public works with cities like San Jose and Spokane, Allen took over as city administrator in Liberty Lake, where she served for 10 years.

In the role, she regularly attended monthly meetings of the LLSWD commissioners and worked with the district on projects like the Fall Leaf Cleanup.

“The district’s story is one of huge success,” Allen said. “They’ve been able to adapt over 50 years to changes in regulations and continue to serve the community.”

Allen applauded LLSWD for keeping up with continued growth in Liberty Lake, from accessing increased water rights to adding capacity to the sewer treatment plant.

“They’ve adapted from a rural service to serve a growing community,” Allen said. “They understand how to build for the future.”

Another administrator – Judi Gladstone, executive director of the Washington Association of Sewer and Water Districts – said LLSWD’s commitment to clean water is recognized by peers throughout the state.

“They’ve been very active and collaborative in that area, just very engaged” she said. “It’s a district that’s ahead of the pack on water

treatment for nutrients.”

Gladstone said that LLSWD ratepayers should rest easy knowing “the district dedicates all their resources to utilities and water protection issues.”

“They’ve got a very good rate structure,” she said. “They’ve done a good job balancing the needs of a system while trying to maintain affordability.”

A Half Century and Counting Last month, Tom Agnew went kayaking on Liberty Lake and marveled at the clear, clean water.

“Even though it was the end of the season, you could see 10 or 15 feet down,” Agnew said. “The aquifer, river and Liberty Lake are all cleaner than they’ve been in our lifetime and they’re getting cleaner still.”

An LLSWD commissioner since 2000, Agnew can recite a history of the lake that goes back to a murkier time. Before the district was established, algae blooms became so invasive that signs were posted on the shoreline, warning against public use.

Agnew gives credit to Ashlock for serving as the catalyst on a citizens advisory committee that began sending water samples from the lake to Washington State University five years before the vote on the district took place. A lakeside resident since 1981 with his wife

Stephanie, Agnew can remember neighbors voicing skepticism about the district’s influence.

“I was talking with a neighbor once who said the transition from septic to sewer was a waste of time and money,” Agnew recalls.

“Within a year, after alum treatment on the lake, we were having another conversation and he said he was rethinking his opinion about the sewer district because the lake had never looked better.”

As the longest tenured commissioner in the district’s distinguished history, Agnew said he keeps at it “because it’s well worth my time to continue doing what I know a little bit about,” adding, “I’m still amazed at how

much I know I don’t know.”

The district’s latest project involves an upgrade of the administrative office on Mission Avenue. Adams said the renovation will make better use of the space and create a “new storefront” designed to provide more accessible customer service. Substantial completion is expected by mid-December.

As Adams, Agnew and the rest of the LLSWD family reflect on the past and present of a small-town utility with a big-time influence, Adams said the roots of stewardship run deep.

“We’ve never been bashful to take on difficult situations,” he said.

“That’s our culture.”

Help protect our lake  Shoreline and/or

Stormwater Permit(s) may be required for your project. There are regulations governing development activities across the entire Liberty Lake watershed.

Shoreline*

• Landscaping • Dock/Boat lifts • Modification of any existing vegetation • Anything within 50 ft. of OHWM

Stormwater*

• Landscaping • Paving/Brick work • Additions • Outbuildings *including, but not limited to

Please call 922-5443 and ask for the Lake Manager

www.libertylake.org

14 • NOVEMBER 2023

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About and for Liberty Lake seniors to be a prime sponsor, Saba said, putting them somewhere Avenue. Mayor Cris Kaminskas will Winter Glow continues donating $10,000 a year to help secure and out of the way. speak and the Ridgeline High School keep the lights on 24 hours a day Set up of this year’s Winter Glow band will perform. Santa Claus will for nearly six weeks. This year the display in the park begins on Nov. 4. also make an appearance and this - A Liberty non-profit organization was also Volunteers will be on site daily from year he’ll be sitting on a small stage $15,000 in motel/hotel tax 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. putting everything so children can sit on his lap and let Lake tradition given money that is collected via a small him know what they would like for

By Nina Culver

tax assessed on each room night sold in Liberty Lake.

Splash contributor

The lights have been tested, new displays have been built and final preparations will soon be underway to set up the annual Winter Glow Spectacular holiday light display at Orchard Park in Liberty Lake.

Efforts to expand the popular holiday experience continue. Last year volunteers put together a whopping 12 new displays and three more new displays are being assembled this year. “Eventually we want to take up the whole park, but it will take time,” said board vice-president Mark Saba. “We’re moving in that direction. Over the years it will eventually add up.”

The annual holiday light show started in 2014 in Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane. When the park was being renovated, the light show moved to several temporary locations, including Corbin Park.

This will be the fifth year it has been in Orchard Park.

“That helped out a lot, too,” Saba said. “Basically it paid for our replacement lights this year.”

The lights and displays are currently stored in green containers in an empty field across from the park. Payment for a storage facility simply isn’t in the budget since it takes about $60,000 to put the show on each year, Saba said.

“We can’t afford to store our stuff,” he said.

Saba said that some people have complained about the green containers being unsightly, but said if everything goes as planned the containers will go away next year.

The City of Liberty Lake currently has in its proposed 2024 budget money to construct a maintenance building in Orchard Park. That building would include storage space for the Winter Glow displays,

together and more volunteers are needed. Those who work an entire day will be given lunch and no tools are required. “We’ve got all the tools,” Saba said. “We just need bodies.”

The new displays added last year include Santa and his sleigh and Santa’s workshop and those will be returning. Also back are the snowman showers on the splash pad and the 25-foot Christmas trees with their lights coordinated to music.

“They’re impressive,” Saba said of the giant trees.

Saba said he keeps coming back to help run the Winter Glow setup each year because he loves to see the gleam in the eyes of children as they marvel at the display. “I love seeing the smiles on kids’ faces,” he said.

“That is it. That is the main reason I do it.”

The opening ceremony is set for Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. at the park, which is located at 20298 E. Indiana

Christmas this year.

The ceremony includes flipping the switch to turn on the lights, which will remain on 24/7 until they shut down on January 1. While the lights will be on 24 hours a day for all to enjoy, the holiday music only plays between 4 and 10 p.m. each night, making that the best time to visit in order to get the full Winter Glow experience. People can either drive around the park to view the displays or walk on paths through the displays. There are parking lots on the east and north sides of the park.

Saba is hoping for another uneventful year with little damage to the displays. He and other volunteers will stop in periodically to make sure all is well and, as usual, he’ll make it a point to bring his own grandchildren to experience Winter Glow. While the 15-year-old may not be as enthralled as the 2-year-old, it’s still a fun holiday experience.

In October volunteers checked every strand of lights and replaced burnt out bulbs or any sections that had completely failed. They touched up displays that had gotten damaged last year. They also put together new displays, though they’re being kept secret until they go up.

One display that is both new and not new is a set of oversized candles.

Though they were popular, the old versions had silver tinsel draped on them that was always making a mess, Saba said. “The candles will be back,” Saba said. “The big candles were gone last year because they were messy. But we built new ones and they’ll be back.”

Organizers got a boost this year when both of the fundraisers, a summer golf tournament and an October dinner and auction, did well, raising $18,000. “Both of them showed an increase,” Saba said.

The

City

of

Liberty

Lake

Contributed photo With snow in the air, and the holidays around the corner Winter Glow is getting ready to setup their annual holiday spectacular at Orchard Park. Opening ceremony is set for Nov 18th at 6pm.

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Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

Lily Martin is proud to help establish a foundation of excellence at Ridgeline High School. The senior maintains a 4.0 grade point average and is part of National Honor Society.

“I feel very honored to have the opportunity to be there when our school first opened and have a say in how the culture here was going to develop,” Martin said. She helped organize the Verde Loco school spirit competition and is part of the Senior Class Council that coordinates events like Homecoming. Martin also participates with Green Team, a club focused on environmental awareness. Martin has worked on a community garden as part of her membership. She is enrolled in four Advanced Placement classes this year and was named an AP Scholar with Distinction as a junior. The Liberty Lake resident has also volunteered with Second Harvest Food Bank.

Danner Smith stepped in as running back for Central Valley last year for an injured starter and has never looked back. This season, the senior has been a catalyst for a Bears’ squad in the running for the postseason. Smith ran for 142 yards on 25 carries and three touchdowns in a 31-0 win over Ferris on Oct. 20.

In a victory against Cheney, Smith had 163 yards on the ground and caught four passes for 61 yards.

His three touchdowns propelled the Bears to a 28-7 win. The three-sport standout has qualified for state in wrestling the past two seasons and competes in sprints, the pole vault and other events in track. He is also a decathlete. Smith maintains a 3.96 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society. He also participates in CV’s Leadership program.

Dan DiCicco spent nearly half of his 50 years in the grocery business in Liberty Lake. Most know him as the longtime manager of the Safeway (now Yoke’s) store where former employees like Jean Simpson say DiCicco “made our environment feel like family.” “There are bosses and there are leaders,” she said. “Dan was most definitely a leader. Even in the worst of situations, he practiced grace.” DiCicco was also involved in community causes like Relay for Life and the Liberty Lake Community Theatre. He retired five years ago but is still serves on the Safeway Credit Union Board of Directors and meets every Wednesday at Yoke’s with a group of Vietnam veterans. Dan and his wife Charlotte reside in Liberty Lake and will celebrate 50 years of marriage next August. They are parents of two daughters and have three grandchildren.

THE

LIBERTY LAKE

COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

&

Thanks you for all you do in our community

18 • NOVEMBER 2023

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THE NEIGHBORHOOD SOUND -

A BULLETIN BOARD TO SHARE LIFE MOMENTS

Submit your entries to TheSound@libertylakesplash.com

All photos by John McCallum Left top: The Falcons football team smashes through a banner as they enter the field to face University.

Left middle: The Falcons football team smashes through a banner as they enter the field to face University.

Left bottom: Ridgeline cheerleaders perform at high time.

Right top: The Ridgeline Regiment entertains fans with their award-winning

show during halftime.

Right middle: Vintage automobiles line up to escort Homecoming royalty from each class.

Right bottom: Homecoming King Nico Pena and Queen Lola McKay.

The Splash

NOVEMBER 2023 • 19

20 • NOVEMBER 2023

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Sponsored By:

www.hubsportscenter.org Ridgeline opened District 8 post Girls soccer 11 and Gonzaga Prep on the road at Falcons teams Oct. Cheney Oct. 17. Senior Ruby Bryntesen The Falcons rode the feet of Natalie season action with an 11-7 loss on Oct. 16 the Falcons with fifth-place finishes Thompson to the Greater Spokane to league-champion University, pulling head to post- led at both meets.

League 4A/3A championship with a 2-1 to within a run at 7-6 in the top of the The girls also competed at the Battle win at league-leading Gonzaga Prep on sixth before the Titans scored four in the season action of the 509 on Sept. 30, winning the Oct. 18. The junior forward/midfielder bottom of the frame – three on a triple

By John McCallum Splash contributor

The name of the game is the postseason — and Ridgeline High School fall sports athletes are making the best of their extra-season opportunities.

Cross country — boys The Falcons finished their Greater Spokane League meet season without a win, losing to Lewis and Clark and Mt. Spokane on Sept. 27, Mead and Central Valley at home Oct. 11 and wrapping up competition at Cheney against the host Blackhawks, along with Gonzaga Prep and Ferris on Oct. 17.

Falcon teams competed Sept. 30 at the sixth annual Battle of the 509, hosted

by Cheney High School and held at the Polo Grounds in Airway Heights.

Ridgeline finished sixth out of 23 teams in the 5,000-meters varsity red race and sixth out of 19 teams in the 5,000-meter beginner junior varsity run.

Junior Oliver Buck led the Falcons in the varsity red competition, placing sixth in the 182-runner field with a time of 16 minutes, 36.99 seconds, with fellow junior Nicholas Cisneros 15th in 16:51.76.

Junior Nolan Rabe was 27th, with freshmen Keean Huntsinger and Oliver Taylor at 69th and 102nd respectively to wrap up the Falcon scoring runners.

The boys were scheduled to compete in the District 8 championships Oct. 28 at the Wandermere Golf Course in Mead.

Buck is ranked 16th and Cisneros 25th overall among District 8 runners, which includes schools from the Tri-Cities, Walla Walla and Hermiston, Ore. In hypothetical team meet scoring on Athletic.net, Ridgeline could finish ninth overall, with North Central first, Cheney second and Mt. Spokane third among 3A schools. The top two teams advance to state.

The state cross country championships are Nov. 4 at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco.

Cross country — girls Ridgeline girls also wrapped up their GSL season, and after a 2-0 start finished with a record of 4-5, notching wins against Central Valley at home

5,000-meter varsity red competition and finishing seventh out of 12 teams in the junior varsity race. Bryntesen was fourth overall for the varsity with a time of 19:41.31, with junior Paige Huntsinger sixth in 19:47.29, junior Courtney Jeppson 16th and sophomores Sierra Tate and Gretchen Carter 25th and 27th respectively.

The girls were scheduled to compete in the District 8 championships Oct. 28 at the Wandermere Golf Course in Mead. Bryntesen and Huntsinger are ranked 15th and 16th respectively overall among District 8 runners, which includes schools in the Tri-Cities along with Walla Walla and Hermiston, Ore. In hypothetical team meet scoring on Athletic.net, Ridgeline could finish seventh overall, with Mead first, Ferris second and Mt. Spokane third among 3A schools. The top two teams advance to state.

The state cross country championships are Nov. 4 at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco.

Football Ridgeline took a 5-2 GSL record, 6-2 overall into the final week of the regular season, sitting in third place in the league standings. The Falcons seemed to be hitting their stride on both sides of the ball, riding a three-game winning streak into the regular-season’s final week with a 46-7 win at Cheney on Oct. 6, walloping Spokane Valley rival University 55-7 for a Homecoming win on Oct. 13 and throttling visiting Davis High School of Yakima 63-14 on Oct. 20 to wrap up the home regular season.

Ridgeline wrapped up its regular season on the road Oct. 27 at Ferris, 1-6, 2-6, with possible playoff positioning on the line.

According to the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA), Ridgeline was ranked 14 overall among 3A schools as of Oct. 23, with an RPI of .5935, one of the tools used by the seeding committee to determine first-round brackets in the 16-team state tournament. Mt. Spokane is the only other Eastern Washington team ranked in the top 15 at No. 6, with unbeaten (80) Arlington ranked No. 1

scored both goals, the first in the 22nd minute and the game-winner in the 88th minute off an assist by senior Presley Young after the host Bullpups tied the game about a minute earlier.

The win over G-Prep gave Ridgeline its first GSL 3A championship and a top-seed into the District 8 playoffs where they hosted eighth-seeded Ferris (7-8) on Oct. 24, with the topthree teams advancing to the 3A state tournament. Young scored in the 22nd minute and again after halftime as the Falcons exploded for four goals in the final 40 minutes to send the Saxons to the elimination bracket with a 5-0 win.

Ridgeline advanced to a second-round hookup on Oct. 28 with fifth-seeded Mt. Spokane.

According to the WIAA, the Falcons, 8-1 GSL, 11-2 overall, are ranked No. 4 among 3A classification teams with an RPI of .6473.

Slowpitch softball The Falcons wrapped up their season with a 14-6 overall record, 9-3 in GSL play, finishing fourth in the league standings.

by Abby Watkins. Sophomore Quincy Coder led the Falcons offensively with two hits and three RBIs. The Falcons responded with an 11-9 win over Shadle Park in an elimination game on Oct. 18. Coder was 2 for 3 with a home run and three RBIs, with Emma Myers adding three hits and three RBIs. Ridgeline beat Mead 9-7 in the first of two games on Oct. 20, eliminating the GSL third-place Panthers. Needing to win to stay alive in the elimination bracket, the Falcons finished their season with a 17-6 loss in five innings to Walla Walla. Myers led Ridgeline with a pair of triples and two runs.

Volleyball After a 3-1 start, the Falcons fell on hard times by dropping four straight matches, but have since rebounded with three straight wins and four wins in their last five matches to put themselves into fourth place in the GSL at 4-3, 7-4 overall. Ridgeline has two matches remaining as of Oct. 23 – an Oct. 24 home date with Central Valley, 4-3 GSL, 4-9 overall before traveling to Ferris on Oct. 26 to face the Saxons, 3-4, 5-7, in the regular-season finale.

Photo by John McCallum Falcons senior Presley Young attempts a shot on goal against Mt. Spokane defender Addison Romey (21). While Romey blocked Young’s shot, Ridgeline forward/midfielder Natalie Thompson sent the deflection into goal for the Falcon’s first score in their 2-1 win over the visiting Wildcats on Oct. 16.

NOVEMBER 2023 • 21

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24 • NOVEMBER 2023

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Mock Election Results

On October 18, 2023 at Ridgeline High School. Students asked candidates questions they have developed over the last several weeks. At the conclusion of the event all candidates were given a one minute opportunity to Ridgeline High School address the community in attendance.

With the assistance 2023 Mock Election of the Spokane County Elections Office we then held All Precincts, All Districts, All Counter Groups, ScanStations, Allto Contes a mock election to give students theAllopportunity Total Ballots Cast: 155 experience the entire process. These are the results of Votes Vote % thoseChoice ballots.

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All Precincts

Spokane County - Measure No. 1 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 16 undervotes)

11 am till 10 pm

Yes No Total Overvotes Undervotes

Fri - Sat 11 am till 11 pm

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65 74 139 0 16

46.76% 53.24% 100.00%

City of Liberty Lake - Mayor (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 12 undervotes) Cris Kaminskas Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

127 16 143 0 12

88.81% 11.19% 100.00%

City of Liberty Lake - Council Position No. 1 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 8 undervotes) Linda M. Ball Phil Folyer Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

66 77 4 147 0 8

44.90% 52.38% 2.72% 100.00%

City of Liberty Lake - Council Position No. 3 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 7 undervotes)

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Dan Dunne Larry Marshall Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

81 65 2 148 0 7

54.73% 43.92% 1.35% 100.00%

City of Liberty Lake - Council Position No. 4 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 6 undervotes) Travis L. Scott Jed Spencer Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

110 39 0 149 0 6

73.83% 26.17% 0.00% 100.00%

City of Liberty Lake - Council Position No. 5 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 6 undervotes) Mike Behary Annie Kurtz Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

70 76 3 149 0 6

46.98% 51.01% 2.01% 100.00%

City of Liberty Lake - Council Position No. 6 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 7 undervotes) Michael Hamblet Mike T Kennedy Write-in

73 73 2

49.32% 49.32% 1.35%

NOVEMBER 2023 • 25

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Ridgeline High School KYLIE GAARD 2023 Mock Election SPASH/CURRENT • 4.83x8.6 (509) 879-3279 All Precincts, All Districts, All Counter Groups, All ScanStations, All Contests, All Boxes kylie@deeserealestate.com Total Ballots Cast: 155

Choice

Votes

Vote %

Total Overvotes Undervotes

148 0 7

100.00%

City of Liberty Lake - Council Position No. 7 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 9 undervotes) Teresa Tapao-Hunt Wendy Van Orman Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

91 54 1 146 0 9

62.33% 36.99% 0.68% 100.00%

Central Valley School District - Director District No. 1 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 14 undervotes) Jeff Brooks Cindy McMullen Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

63 75 3 141 0 14

(509) 903-3807 lonnie@deeserealestate.com

Be Part of Exploring a Balanced Calendar & Planning for Our Future!

CVSD is recruiting volunteers to explore options to increase learning opportunities & reduce summer learning loss through the possibility of a more balanced calendar.

44.68% 53.19% 2.13% 100.00%

Find out more information & apply to be on the Balanced Calendar Committee today at: CVSD.org/BalancedCalendar/

AR CALEND

Central Valley School District - Director District No. 3 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 16 undervotes) Stephanie Jerdon Debra L Long Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

72 63 4 139 0 16

51.80% 45.32% 2.88% 100.00%

Central Valley School District - Director District No. 4 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 15 undervotes) Anniece Barker Keith L Clark Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

77 61 2 140 0 15

55.00% 43.57% 1.43% 100.00%

Spokane Valley Fire District - Commissioner Position No. 5 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 16 undervotes) Rick Freier George Orr Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

85 52 2 139 0 16

61.15% 37.41% 1.44% 100.00%

Liberty Lake Sewer District - Commissioner Position No. 3 (Vote for 1) 155 ballots (0 over voted ballots, 0 overvotes, 17 undervotes) Tom Agnew Write-in Total Overvotes Undervotes

131 7 138 0 17

LONNIE CASTILLO

94.93% 5.07% 100.00%

Connect with your schools at...

COMMUNITY LINK EVENTS Join us to discover innova ve programs happening inside your neighborhood schools in each of our three Central Valley learning communi es: Ÿ Central - Thurs., Nov. 30, 7:30-9am North Pines MS, 11900 E Broadway Ave, Spokane Valley Ÿ Western - Tues., Dec. 5, 7:30-9am, University HS, 12420 E 32nd Ave, Spokane Valley Ÿ Eastern - Thurs., Dec. 7, 7:30-9am, Ridgeline HS, 20150 E Country Vista Dr, Liberty Lake You are an important link with our schools. We hope to see you there!

RSVP today at: CVSD.org/CommunityLinkEvents/

Everyone is welcome! www.cvsd.org f

You Tube

@cvsdspokane

26 • NOVEMBER 2023

The Splash

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The Splash strives for accuracy in all content. Errors should be reported immediately to 509-242-7752 or

Pentagon

24

RPM Express Car Wash

4

Simonds Dental Group

28

26

Spokane Fall Folk Festival

15

Liberty Lake EyeCare Center

12

Spokane Valley Fire Dept

28

Liberty Lake Family Dentistry

5

Spokane Valley Summer Theatre

21

Spokane Valley Villa’s

26

Tate Law Office

15

Affordable Arborist

26

Greenstone

21

Amaculate Housekeeping

26

HUB Sports center

20

Banner Furnace & Fuel

5

Jim Custer Enterprises

12

Best Blinds and Awnings

1, 3

John L Scott - Pam Fredrick

9

Central Valley School Dist

25

Konnie Nelson

Children’s Choice Pediatric Dentistry19 City of Liberty Lake

7, 17

Collected Goods

9

Liberty Lake Sewer & Water District11

CVSD Kids First

22

Liberty Lake Smile Source

24

Dunne For Council

12

Lonnie Castillo

25

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The Splash

ON THAT NOTE

Lifelong journey to Heartful Hands Massage

By Ashley Humbird Splash contributor

Residents of Spokane Valley will now be able to stay just a little more relaxed with help from Rachel Halpern and her newly opened Heartful Hands Massage and Wellness.

Rachel’s story begins in our chilly neighbor to the north, Ontario, Canada in 1991… 8 weeks prematurely. While her family was in the process of moving to Washington, she made her debut and has not stopped pushing boundaries and exceeding all challenges and obstacles set in her path.

While born with Cerbral Palsy, or CP, Rachel has never let that stop her from reaching her goals.

Crystal Folkins, the oldest sibling of four, is twelve years older than Rachel and has been a protective and encouraging force her entire life.

“Being the oldest I kind of always helped take care of my siblings,” Crystal recalls about their childhood.

“I was always very protective of my siblings. But mostly Rachel. I took her everywhere with me. I taught her all the naughty things sisters are supposed to teach!”

The family soon relocated to Spokane shortly after Rachel’s birth, and after a short stay on the South Hill, settled in Liberty Lake. Rachel and her family have remained lifelong residents of Liberty Lake.

Rachel graduated from Central Valley High School in 2009 with the goal of wanting to help people and enrich their lives. “I’ve always wanted to help people. I wanted to do it, but maybe not go to twelve years of school. For me, being born with mild CP, I wasn’t aware that massage was something that could help someone like me. If I had known about massage as a kid it would have been great. It’s what drew me to massage, massage could be helpful to someone else like me.”

She made the decision to go to massage school in January 2011 at the American Institute of Clinical Massage in Post Falls. “I’ve always gone through my life acting as if I didn’t have a disability. But going through massage school, they only had you do four hours a day, which I absolutely appreciated. Because I didn’t know at the time if I could do more than four hours at a time, though I can do so many more now!

I did end up breaking my foot in

massage school, and that was iffy cause I was on crutches, and though I had to take some time off to heal, I still finished just a short time after I was originally supposed to.”

After graduating from American Institute of Clinical Massage, she began working at The Brick House in Spokane Valley and while there, Rachel was a top requested massage therapist. The Brick House was home to her clients until May of 2015 when she left to join a clinic and rent out a space as a private therapist in June 2015.

During this time working at the Brick House, she met Dillan Gemmell. Dillan was introduced to Rachel by a mutual friend in 2012 and after being his Xbox to a gathering, they soon struck up a friendship.

“We hung out all night and played Zombies! She said she was going to school for massage and that she could practice massage on me!” Over the course of a few years and relocations, Dillan moved back to Spokane, and they began dating in November of 2014. Dillan proposed in 2018 and unfortunately the wedding was postponed due to Covid, but they are happy to be engaged for now. “I feel really proud of her,” Dillan shares while gazing at Rachel, “She has had quite a bit of people say ‘I don’t

know if you can do this.’ But she just continues to prove them wrong!”

After a serious injury in January 2019 that resulted in Rachel breaking both her elbows, she was forced to take a step back from her business and clients, but, “I have some of the most loyal clients ever! Some of them did not go to see anyone. I couldn’t work for months. And the majority of my clients came back once I was able to massage again!” Rachel has clients that predate her moving into her own location and continues to grow her client list.

There are five rooms in Rachel’s new location in Spokane Valley that are able to be used as practitioner space. On the day of this interview, Rachel had just officially signed her first tenant, an esthetician. Rachel hopes that her space can be a fullservice location, with the possibility of adding a mental health therapist, chiropractor, wellness coach and more. Her beautifully decorated space is a relaxing and inviting space.

“I know that everybody in the family could not be more proud of her. I am just so proud of her and everything she has done.” As an older sister, pride for siblings can be a powerful emotion and Crystal shows her love for Rachel by supporting her

NOVEMBER 2023 • 27

in all things.

“My sister calls me a magician with my goals. And I would have to agree. Cause if I want it, I’ll go get it.

It took me ten years to achieve this,” Rachel explains looking around at the newly remodeled space she is the proud owner of. “I have wanted this my whole life. Just the other day my sister’s friend asked me what my dream was and I told her ‘I’m pretty much living it, I just have to fill the rooms.’ I just want everyone to know that even through any adversity, if you have a dream and you believe in it, you can do it. That is the biggest thing.”

“I really love that you continually give me something to brag about at work. Because over all these years working with the people I do, they have got to live second hand through me all of your accomplishments and it’s been so awesome!” Dillan is a part of Rachel’s new business and helps provide additional support when needed.

Heartful Hands Massage is located at 303 South University in Spokane Valley. Rachel has a current Facebook page at Heartful Hands Massage and Wellness where you can access her email and company phone number and stay connected.

Bookings can be made at 509-9994203.

Photo by Ashley Humbird Rachel Halpern is the proud new owner of the building at 303 S University where her massage business Heartful Hands Massage and Wellness is located.

28 • NOVEMBER 2023

The Splash

The Simonds Dental Group is sharing their Thanks For You ... with this fantastic new patient offer

22106 E. Country Vista Drive Suite D • Liberty Lake

www.LibertyLakeDental.com CALL TODAY!

509-893-1119

FREE

in office teeth whitening With Purchase of a New Patient Exam, Necessary X-rays & Recommended Cleaning. Offer expires10/31/2023

Dr. Danielle Halverson •Dr. Enoch Ross • Dr. Ross Simonds • Dr. Amanda Roper