2025 October Splash

OCTOBER

THE

2025

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. Postage Paid Permit #010 ZIP CODE 99019

LIBERTY LAKE

FREE COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE POS 6

POS 1

Phil Folyer

Rick Klingler

Judie Schumacher

Arlene Fisher

Pages 13-19

MEET LL KIWANIS PRESIDENT TIM OLSEN PAGE 2

TAMALE BOX OPENS PAGE 10

CITY COUNCIL CO-HOUSING AND LIBRARY POLICIES PAGE 30

2 • OCTOBER 2025

The Splash

DOCKSIDE his time is best spent focusing on the LL Kiwanis community he lives in rather than try various community events, including Olsen said he’s grateful for the to make a dent in the larger issues in at the city’s Fourth of July celebration, support the Liberty Lake community Spokane Symphony concert in gives to the Kiwanis. “We raise a lot President and the country.

Pavillion Park, Shakespeare in the “I’m not going to change global Park and the annual three-on-three of money in Liberty Lake,” he said.

Community politics,” he said. “If we can help basketball tournament. While selling “We have an amazing community.”

15 kids this year with scholarships, concessions is how the group raises At one time Olsen also served Builder Tim that’s what it’s all about. I think we money, Olsen said he tries to keep on the Liberty Lake Planning can make a huge amount of change prices reasonable. “I’m proud of the Commission and the Liberty Lake Olsen where we live.” fact that we have not changed our Library board of trustees. He The group also sells concessions at

By Nina Culver

Splash contributor Most people in Liberty Lake have probably crossed paths with Tim Olsen in one way or another, whether it's as a real estate agent, president of the Liberty Lake Kiwanis, former member of the Liberty Lake Library board of trustees or the Friends of the Liberty Lake Library board.

Olsen has a lengthy background as an investment advisor after a college summer job at a stock brokerage convinced him to change his major to economics. He moved to the area nearly 20 years ago because his best account was here and he also wanted to start a hedge fund.

Olsen, currently the president of the Liberty Lake Kiwanis, has served in the role for several years. He was also the treasurer for a year.

The Liberty Lake Kiwanis keep busy. Each year the club hosts a fatherdaughter dance, a giant community yard sale and the Barefoot in the Park event. They regularly host a half dozen movies in Pavillion Park every summer. Members of the Kiwanis also volunteer for bell ringers for the annual Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign.

snack shop prices in three years,” he said.

Olsen recalls a time a few years ago when a woman approached him at one of the summer movie events.

The woman said she was a single mom to three children and thanked Olsen for the movie showings, because she would never be able to afford to take all her children to a movie theater. “That memory of her keeps me going every day,” he said.

The Kiwanis also help organize chapters of the Key Club, a service

resigned from the library board a couple years ago. “I got off because it got political,” he said.

He’s still involved in the library, however, now as a member of the board of the Friends of the Liberty Lake Library. “It’s fundraising,” he said. “We contribute to the library in any way we can.”

Of all the groups and boards Olsen has been involved in, the Kiwanis hold a special place in his heart. “It touches so many different parts of our community,” he said.

“I’d say that’s the most rewarding.”

These days Olsen is doing what he can to recruit new members, particularly younger members.

Many of the events the Kiwanis put on are put together by the same small core group of people, he said. “I’m trying to learn how to attract more young people,” he said. “I’ll teach you how to make cotton candy. It’s a great resume builder.”

In the summer of 2017, however, he took the summer off to consider what he was doing with his life.

He decided to switch to selling real estate, partly inspired by a sibling who worked as a Realtor in Texas.

“Serving people was what I wanted to do,” he said. “I’m constantly trying to serve the needs of my clients. I absolutely love what I do.”

Members of the group don’t even have to come to the meetings, Olsen said. “Everybody has so much going on,” he said. “We don’t need 100 percent of your time. We just need some help at an event or two.”

Olsen narrowed his focus even further and is now a senior real estate specialist, serving primarily clients age 60 and up. Olsen said he felt pushed in that direction after he watched his mother try to deal with selling the family home after his dad died. “I thought, there’s got to be a better way to do this,” he said.

With his new career came more time to work in the community and he took advantage. He joined Toastmasters, then a friend convinced him to come to a Kiwanis meeting.

Olsen was convinced that he could make a difference in the community as a Kiwanis member. He believes

group, at local high schools.

Q: What led to your involvement in the Kiwanis?

Photo by Nina Culver Tim Olsen Real Estate Broker, Liberty Lake Kiwanis Club President, and Friends of Liberty Lake Library Board director has passion for community and is seeking others to join him in getting involved.

I was invited to a meeting by a friend of mine I knew from Toastmasters. I really liked some of the things that they did for our community and wanted to be involved in an organization that serves our community. My mother and father both served in various community organizations, and I saw firsthand all the good they were able to do.

Q: Do you have a favorite event See OLSEN, Page 4

OCTOBER 2025 • 3

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The Splash

OLSEN

Continued from page 2 that the Liberty Lake Kiwanis put on?

That is a tough question; I may have to cheat a little to say that each event has its own unique place in my heart. I love the long tradition of the Father-Daughter Dance and seeing moms, dads, grandparents, or even aunts and uncles bring boys and girls to this event. Movies in the park is a very special time; we get to see so many people. I didn’t know until I joined Kiwanis, but the Liberty Lake Yard Sale is a fantastic event that draws people from many places.

Q: Why were you interested in joining the Liberty Lake Library board?

I wanted to make a greater impact in my community. The Library Board position was available, and I was fortunate enough to be approved by the City Council. The Liberty Lake Library is a tremendous asset to our community. I was fortunate to be there when the study was done, and we were able to hear how important this is to the community. We were able to implement a lot of new ideas, which are still being carried out by our amazing library staff today. I still support the library by being a member of the Friends of the Liberty Lake Library, which is another fun and impactful group.

Q: Why is community service important to you?

I love Liberty Lake. Being of service to have a positive impact on a community that you love is really it! I live, work, and volunteer in my community. I want to do whatever I can to keep some of the traditions alive that make our community an amazing place to live. We can

positively impact the younger generations, hopefully inspiring them to carry on the idea of serving their community as they grow older.

This is a challenging world, and I likely can’t change that as effectively as I can make a positive impact on my community.

Q: What advice do you have for someone considering joining a group like the Kiwanis or other service organization?

Do it! It is SO gratifying. I read about the benefits of volunteering a while back: volunteering improves mental health and contributes to higher levels of happiness, self-esteem, self-worth and life satisfaction. While we meet on Wednesday mornings at 7 am, we have people who can’t come at that time, but they still help when they can. There are numerous fun opportunities and positive ways to make a positive impact in your community through some great groups in town.

Q: I see you’ve done some world traveling. What was your favorite country/city to visit and why?

Yes, my amazing wife Erin and I love to travel together. We have been very fortunate to be able to go to a lot of places, but I would say that my favorite destination is Bali. We have been twice, and it is an amazing place. It takes a long time to get there, but it is worth it. I love the people.

They are so thankful for everything they have, many of them are Hindu and they give offerings of praise every day. I tried to explain Thanksgiving to our tour guide one time and he was surprised we only did it one day a year. It was quite an amazing thought at the time. It is safe, interesting, and it is relatively inexpensive to stay there.

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6 • OCTOBER 2025

Liberty Lake could spend $28.7 million to update facilities

By John McCallum Splash contributor

The Liberty Lake City Council is close to approving a plan to spend an estimated $28.7 million over the next 7-8 years to update the city’s aging and in some cases out of compliance facilities.

The largest expenditure is construction of a new library/ community center complex at Liberty Lake’s Town Square site, part of which is currently used for the Farmers Market. The 19,000-square-foot library and 4,000-square-foot community center feature is currently estimated to cost $14.5 million and add 8,388 square feet of surplus space — about onequarter of the 32,400 square feet in new space for the entire proposal.

The library/community center is the subject of an advisory vote slated for the Nov. 4 ballot. The city’s original plan was to move the library from its current location to a renovated former Legacy Church building just to the east along East Mission Avenue.

The city purchased the building in 2022 for $2.175 million, and had set aside $3.99 million in the 2025 budget for renovation. Not included in that was

NEWS a $937,000 Department of Commerce grant the city was approved to receive if it went forward with the project.

Despite public input advocating for the project, council elected to abandon it in favor of the Town Square concept in late 2024. Commerce rescinded its grant approval this past May. In a presentation to the council at its Sept. 16 meeting, Public Works Director Ben Turner said all of the city facilities face issues ranging from out-of-date mechanical and electrical systems to non-compliance with Americans With Disabilities Act standards to lack of space for more offices, workstations and conference rooms to accommodate an expanding workforce. Buildings such as the library and current Public Safety facility were built in 1992, with City Hall and the Parks and Recreation buildings constructed in 2001.

“These facilities are definitely in need of an update,” Turner said.

“They weren’t built necessarily for the purposes they’ve been used for by the city. We’re at our maxed capacity with little room for growth.”

Under the option, City Hall/ Council Chambers would move to the Legacy building at an estimated cost of $5 million, with Parks and Recreation moving to City Hall at a cost of $500,000.

This would add 14,400 square feet of space, including a surplus of over 6,800 square feet.

Public Safety would move into the vacated library building at a cost of $8.7 million, providing an additional 9,612 square feet for their use, with over 6,600 square feet of surplus space.

At a July 15 council meeting, staff also presented an option that didn’t include the Town Square concept where the library moved into the Legacy building, City Hall departments moved to the current library, Parks moved to the current City Hall with construction of a public safety addition. Estimated cost for this was $18.3 million over 7.5-years.

At the meeting, staff recommended the Town Square option, and council agreed.

The Town Square proposal also includes two additional options besides the library/community center combination (Option 2): an 18,000-square-foot library-only (Option 1) estimated at $12.93 million and a similar sized library with an additional 1,000-square-feet of “community flex space” (Option 3) at $13.81 million.

City staff told council Option 2 better aligned with the Town Square concept.

Library Director Jandy Humble said citizen input via in-person questions at the Farmers Market, the library and community meetings along with online participation indicated 70% of the 294 respondents preferred Option 2. Humble acknowledged that in gathering the input, no determination was made to identify respondents as Liberty Lake residents, their age and if they voted several times.

Councilman Jed Spencer — who is not running for reelection — said it was difficult to make decisions based upon this type of nonscientific, community response.

“It’s tricky to take that very small data groups and say, well clearly, the

The Splash citizens have spoken,” Spencer, who is not running for reelection, said.

Some public comment at previous council meetings along with emails to council obtained through public records requests have supported the previous plan to move the library to the Legacy building.

One of the major considerations in the proposed facilities option is how to pay for it. Turner listed potential sources such as bonds, grants, developer impact fees, state capital budget support, public-private partnerships in the case of the library/community center, donations and “Other General Fund Resources,” a category that includes taxes.

Turner said more discussion would be required on the best avenues for funding.

Mayor Pro Tem Chris Cargill — who is also not running for reelection — pointed out bonds mean city debt, something that would be passed on to residents. He also said developer fees would likely be passed on to homebuyers, adding housing costs were already rising.

“We’re going to make housing more expensive in the city,” he said if impact fees were included.

Turner listed next steps in the process as continuing to gather council input, incorporate findings into the city’s Comprehensive Plan and prioritize funding requests. He said he hopes to present a design concept with a cost estimate for Phase 1, City Hall, at the Oct. 21 council meeting.

If council approves, Turner said the next moves would be to create construction documents and get them out for public bids in early 2026.

City Administrator Mark McAvoy cautioned council to avoid making assumptions on aspects of the draft plan, reminding them one of the items in the scope of work it approved at its original facilities improvements discussion in March was “development of a bond initiative.”

McAvoy said council had indicated it wanted to await the results of the Nov. 4 advisory vote on the Town Square library/community center concept before proceeding further with developing a bond measure. He asked council if that was still its intent.

“My assumption is since we’re waiting on an advisory vote, that would be no,” Mayor Cris Kaminskas said.

Other council members agreed.

OCTOBER 2025 • 7

The Splash

The Lookout

October 2025

Want to report a repair need or get a city question answered? Contact city staff using the new “ SeeClickFix” system Want to report a repair need or get a city question answered?

Contact city staff using the new “SeeClickFix” system Starting in October, Liberty Lake city residents will have a new and more efficient way to go online and inform city staff about repair needs and even get questions answered about city services.

The new system is a resource called SeeClickFix, and will show residents the list of categories

they can select from when they want to notify city staff about such things as a street repair, a park facility maintenance issue, a broken sprinkler, or vandalism.

Additionally, people will also be able to use the system to connect with staff on questions about such topics as park facility reservations, solicitor licenses, personal tee times at Trailhead Golf Course, and signage compliance.

The

SeeClickFix

system

is replacing the TextMyGov resource that had been on the city’s homepage for the past few years. Unlike the older resource, the new system’s categorybased format will route residents’ messages directly to the city staff members who are specifically involved with the category of the request. This will not only allow repair or maintenance issues to be addressed more quickly, but the city staff members involved

LLPD’s Darin Powers received Law Enforcement Commendation Medal

Residents will be able to locate the SeeClickFix resource via the “Make A Request” button on the city’s homepage (www. libertylakewa.gov). Visitors to the city’s website will also see a banner link at the top of the homepage during the system’s initial weeks of introduction.

Library’s annual Halloween Party is Oct. 30

The Liberty Lake Municipal Library is preparing a “Wicked”ly fun time for attendees at this year’s edition of its always popu-lar Halloween Party. The 2025 edition of the library’s party will happen on Thursday, Oct. 30, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Corp. Darin Powers of the Liberty Lake Police Department is now the recipient of the Law Enforcement Commendation Medal following some recent involvement he undertook to assist an area military veteran as well as the person’s wife.

The theme for this year’s party will be based on the “Wicked” musical movie and play. Area residents of all ages are invited to come dressed in their Halloween costume – whether those outfits may be Oz-related or not.

Corp. Powers received the award in a special presentation by LLPD Deputy Chief Darin Morgan during the Liberty Lake City Council meeting on Sept. 16.

On Aug. 17, Corp. Powers was dispatched to respond to a suicidal suspect who was identified as a military veteran who had suffered from several failed attempts to receive mental health services from local providers for the man’s PTSD. Corp. Powers took additional time to learn more about the individual’s background and to determine another course of action to help the area resident.

After doing an extensive search, Corp. Powers was able to locate a treatment center out of state and secured a free flight for the man in order to receive treatment.

will also be able to respond to requestors with personalized updates.

The LLPD officer also provided similar help to the person’s wife after learning of assistance she was also needing.

At the time of the man’s trip, Corp. Powers escorted him to the Spokane Airport, walked him through security, and ensured he had made the flight. The LLPD officer arranged for someone to meet the man upon his arrival at the other airport and to get him to the treatment center.

At the Sept. 16 City Council meeting, Deputy Chief Morgan

read the following remarks from LLPD Chief Damon Simmons: “The Liberty Lake Police Department would like to express our gratitude to Corp. Darin Powers for going above and beyond the call of duty to support a community member in need. His actions are a direct reflection of his commitment to excellent service and the values held by our agency. Corp. Powers’ constant professional attitude and dedication to duty reflect great credit upon himself, the Liberty Lake Police Department, and law enforcement as a whole.”

https://www.facebook.com/libertylakewa

•

This family-focused event will feature crafts, games, and treats for everyone. Area residents are invited to drop in at any time to enjoy some or all of the library’s two-hour party.

www.libertylakewa.gov

8 • OCTOBER 2025

The Splash

Introducing the

Safety Awareness Channel

Police Report - Aug. 2025 Splash news sources

Significant Cases 2025-88008961: SHOPLIFTING On 8/20/2025, a female suspect stole several backpacks full of merchandise from Walgreens.

She was contacted nearby and arrested.

2025-88009020: THEFT On 8/21/2025, a juvenile left his scooter at Rocky Hill Park.

When he returned for it, the scooter was gone. No suspects,

witnesses, or surveillance were available.

2025-88009091: THEFT

VEHICLE

On 8/24/2025, a female suspect was contacted in a stolen vehicle and claimed her friend had said the vehicle was his and asked her to pick it up for him. The friend provided a picture of a forged bill of sale. The vehicle was returned to the rightful owner, and the female driver was cited and released pending further investigation.

2025-88009197: SHOPLIFTING On 8/26/2025, an unidentified female attempted to steal

approximately $750 worth of steaks from Safeway. When she saw employees approaching her, she dropped the stolen goods and ran out of the store. She left in a red SUV. 2025-88009256: PERSON

SUSPICIOUS

There were several calls last month regarding a transient male being extremely intoxicated in public. He was contacted multiple times and eventually arrested on an out-of-state warrant. He is likely to have a continued issues if he returns to this area.

The

Liberty

Lake

Police

Department would like to remind everyone to drive slowly and safely in all marked school zones and neighborhood areas.

The activity in those areas will increase as the kids are back in school.

Take additional time to be aware of the pedestrian traffic. The Liberty Lake Police Department has had an increase in speeding violators and are proactively enforcing those high traffic areas. Remember to secure your belongings inside your residence and out of your vehicles to prevent vehicle prowlers as the summer months tend to invite more prowling activity. Stay well and be safe!

OCTOBER 2025 • 9

The Splash

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10 • OCTOBER 2025

The Splash

NEWS

From Farmers The menu is simple. There are five different varieties of the plump, Market to half-pound tamales wrapped in corn husks – chicken chile rojo, permanent pork chile verde, cheese and jalapeno, shredded beef rojo and location, black bean. The black bean option is vegan and all the options are gluten Tamale Box free. Diners can order them alone, in a combo with rice and beans or opens in by the dozen and half dozen.

Those who order by the dozen North of or half dozen have the option to fresh, uncooked and frozen or Liberty Lake buy cooked and frozen. “Some people farmers markets.

By Nina Culver

Splash contributor

Liberty Lake has a new option for those in search of authentic Mexican cuisine, a restaurant called Tamale Box tucked back on a side street near Emrys Beer and Mead Works.

The location at 2658 N. Wildrye Street, which opened in July, is the second owned by Enrique Mariscal.

The first opened in Kendall Yards last year after Mariscal spent five years building his clientele at local

t c e l e

prefer it that way,” said Mariscal of the uncooked option. “Most people prefer the frozen cooked option, so we have that, too. You can just resteam them that way.”

Mariscal uses the recipes perfected by his mother, Candelaria Mariscal, who came to town to help open the new location. Everything is fresh and all the sauces are made in house. Employees even shred the beef in house. “People notice that,” he said. “People taste it. It speaks for itself.”

Photo by Nina Culver Tamale Box owner Enrique Mariscal and his mother Candelaria Mariscal, opened his second location in North of Liberty Lake this last July after participating in a number of Farmers Markets including Liberty Lakes back in 2024. Tamale Box recipes are based on his mother Mexican heritage. are sold out of cars in parking lots and that was the root of Mariscal’s restaurants. “That was us, sitting in

the parking lot selling my mom’s tamales,” he said.

Tamales are difficult and time

They say that the best tamales

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The Splash

OCTOBER 2025 • 11

NEWS

consuming to make, Mariscal said, which is why people are willing to pay others to make them. “Not everyone can make them,” he said.

Mariscal was living in Spokane and working at the Davenport Hotel several years ago when his mother came to visit shortly after his father died in 2017. She was looking for something to do while in town and Mariscal thought of making tamales, since it was winter and outdoor activities were limited.

He texted his co-workers and asked if any of them were interested in his mother’s tamales.

Several responded and they were a hit. “Then they started texting me, when is she coming back,” he said. “The wheels started spinning then.”

Mariscal got the idea of selling his mother’s tamales at farmers markets. “I thought that would be an easy thing to do,” he said.

He soon learned about business licenses, health regulations and the need to use a commercial kitchen.

But he kept going, and began selling his mother’s recipe at the Perry Street Market in 2019.

His mother, who splits her time between Mexico and California, came up to help launch his business. “She moved up here for the summer,” he said. “She needed to be occupied with something she loved. It’s in her DNA since she was a little girl to cook for large groups of people.”

As the years went by he added the Fairwood Market and the Liberty Lake Farmers Market.

Mariscal said the tamales were well received and he often had lines of people at the various farmers markets. The business grew and people began asking where they could find his tamales during the off-season.

Mariscal began making plans to open a location in Liberty Lake in the River District, a development

by Greenstone Homes west of Harvard Road. When he met with Jim and Joe Frank to discuss opening a restaurant in the River District, he brought tamales to the meeting.

“They called me about Kendall Yards a few months after we met about this place,” he said of his Liberty Lake location. “I was very excited.”

Mariscal said he was also a little intimidated, but soon realized that Kendall Yards, also a Greenstone development, was a perfect launching point. “It was a smaller location so it was less daunting,” he said. “It wasn’t as scary.”

His farmers market customers quickly found him when he opened in Kendall Yards in February 2024.

Then new people came, attracted by word of mouth. His mother visited to help open the new restaurant, just as she came this summer to help him open his second location.

Mariscal skipped the 2025 farmers market season in order to open his Liberty Lake restaurant in July, but said he plans to return to the Liberty Lake and Perry Street markets next year.

Business has been going well in Liberty Lake, Mariscal said, and customers haven’t been limited to Liberty Lake residents. “I feel like word spreads a lot faster out here,” he said. “Otis Orchards has been a big support. I didn’t realize it was so close.”

The busiest times are at lunch on weekdays and Saturdays. The location has a walk up window for take out and a couple picnic tables outside for use in nice weather, though Mariscal hopes to add a couple more.

The restaurant is currently open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Mariscal is already working on plans to open earlier and start serving breakfast.

He’s currently experimenting on a breakfast tamale.

Mariscal said he’s already noticed a few differences in his restaurants. Usually his chicken tamale is the best seller, but not at the new location. “In Liberty Lake, I’d say the beef one is very popular,” he said.

The tamales cost either $6.50 or $6.75 each and the one tamale combo meal is $12. Mariscal said he’s been working to keep the prices as low as possible even as the cost of supplies increase. A one-pound bundle of corn husks that used to cost him $5 is now $12.

“We’re spending more on corn husks than we are on meat,” he said. “It’s not like there’s a lot of distributors for corn husks. We’re doing our best. It is still a screaming deal.”

A holiday guide for the Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Millwood, Otis Orchards, Newman Lake, Airway Heights, Medical Lake, and West Plains areas

“Eat, Shop and Be Merry” is a special cover section that will champion what the Valley area has to offer in the way of gifts and food. Advertise in this holiday guide aimed at area consumers and businesses — and as a bonus we’ll include your idea as part of our story featuring can’t-miss local gift ideas. Restaurants are encouraged to advertise and contribute a tantalizing menu item for our article on dining out.

On November 24 and 25, the guides will be distributed throughout the greater Valley and West Plains areas via The Splash, The Current and The Stream.

The December issues are strategically scheduled to land before Thanksgiving, just in time to remind residents about supporting local businesses on Small Business Saturday and throughout the holiday season.

A total of 39,500 copies of this guide will be included in the December issues of The Current, The Splash and The Stream. That’s right-be part of all three publications for one price!

* Contract discounts do not apply

1/4 PAGE: $650 1/2 PAGE: 1,000 1/2 PAGE: $1,000 (normally $1,185)

(normally $2,160)

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Display ad with submitted menu item or gift idea: Display ad (submitted gift idea or menu item will be printed if space is still available):

FULL PAGE: $1,850

(normally $4,050)

Nov. 5 Nov. 11

12 • OCTOBER 2025

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Spokane Colleges does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, sexual orientation, pregnancy and related conditions, or age in its programs, activities or employment. Direct all inquiries regarding equal opportunity compliance and/or grievances, as well as all inquiries and/or grievances regarding access and Title IX to the chief human resources officer, Spokane Colleges, 501 N. Riverpoint Blvd., P.O. Box 6000, MS 1004, Spokane, WA. 99217-6000 or call 509-434-5040 or email ccs.titleix@ccs.spokane.edu. 25-0183 9/2025 RC

Special Election G u i d e 2025 OCTOBER 2025 • 13

The Splash

Dear Readers: With the upcoming election heating up and the sea of political signs filling our streets, we at The Splash wanted to take the opportunity to provide you with some information about the candidates seeking your vote this election cycle.

It had become a tradition to bring you this election guide that showcases as many candidates as we

can get to respond.

In order to give you more insight into who these people are we reached out to all of the contenders appearing on your ballot and asked them to please provide a 300-word response to the following questions (which we would publish at no cost).

1. What best qualifies you for this position?

2. What is the most important issue that needs addressed?

Again this year we added

some fun questions to also get to know more about the candidates personality!

1. What is your favorite community event?

2. What is your favorite restaurant?

3. What is your favorite place to volunteer?

While not everyone chose to respond to our request, a good number have and we hope that you find their unedited responses helpful for your voting consideration.

For those who haven’t

registered to vote or accidently lose your ballot, you can register all the way upto election day and/or get a replacement ballot in person by going to CenterPlace Regional Event Center in Spokane Valley.

Thanks for reading The Splash, we hope you enjoy it!

The Splash

Vote by November 4th

14 • OCTOBER 2025

What is your favorite restaurant?

The Splash

City of liberty lake pos. 4 Phil Folyer

What best qualifies you for this position?

I believe my background uniquely qualifies me to continue serving on the Liberty Lake City Council. I am a 21-year Army National Guard veteran, a longtime small business owner, and an experienced public servant who has held leadership roles in both civic and industry organizations. My time on the Liberty Lake Planning Commission,

City Council, and as Mayor Pro-Tem has given me firsthand understanding of how decisions are made— and how those decisions affect the daily lives of residents and businesses.

I’ve also had the privilege of serving as president of the Spokane Home Builders Association and on the statelevel Building Industry Association of Washington, where I worked to advance practical solutions for housing and economic development.

These experiences have equipped me with the leadership skills, fiscal discipline, and collaborative mindset needed to deliver results for our community.

What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

The most important

issue facing Liberty Lake today is ensuring fiscal responsibility while meeting the demands of growth. Rising costs, state mandates, and infrastructure needs put pressure on our city’s budget. Every dollar we spend must provide a meaningful return for residents. At the same time, we must address housing attainability, public safety, and infrastructure in a way that protects Liberty Lake’s small-town character. By asking tough questions, resisting unnecessary spending, and focusing on projects that truly benefit the community, we can balance growth with quality of life. My goal is to ensure Liberty Lake remains strong, safe, and financially sound for years to come.

What best qualifies you for this position?

I am deeply committed to Liberty Lake and bring over two decades of leadership experience in healthcare and business development.

For 22 years, my wife Lauralee and I have proudly called this city home, raising our children here and investing in the relationships that make Liberty Lake special.

Professionally, I’ve served as a registered nurse and later as a business executive, managing multimilliondollar operations across 17 states. These roles taught me to listen carefully, apply evidencebased solutions, and lead with integrity—skills

that directly translate into thoughtful, nonpartisan local governance.

What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

The most pressing issue is responsible, wellplanned growth. Liberty Lake is projected to reach build-out within the next two decades, meaning decisions made now will shape our community for generations.

Residents are concerned about traffic, housing density, and protecting our smalltown character. If not managed carefully, growth can strain infrastructure, public safety, and the environment.

My vision is balanced: plan ahead with data, ensure infrastructure keeps pace,

Rick Klingler

Candidate

Phil Folyer - hat’s based on my drink preference at the time Rick Klingler - The Pentagon or Trailbreaker Judie Schumacher - - Emrys Beer & Mead Works Arlene Fisher - Palenque’s Mexican Restaurant Brandon Arthur - Ponderosa Grill Allen Skidmore - Hay J’s Bistro Pam Orebaugh - I love a great steak meal Mark Bitz - Our kitchen with garden ingredients

Candidate

protect open spaces, and keep residents’ voices central. With thoughtful planning, Liberty Lake can grow stronger without losing what makes it unique.

OCTOBER 2025 • 15

The Splash

city of liberty lake pos. 6

What best qualifies you for this position?

One of my strengths is listening with curiosity, meaning I truly want to understand others’ perspectives.

This skill contributed to my successful career in project management and process improvement at a large financial firm.

I led teams in communicating with each other, reviewing and understanding data,

and finding agreement on lasting solutions. So far this summer my volunteers and I have been to over 3,000 Liberty Lake doors.

I’ve personally talked with hundreds of voters on their doorsteps, at house parties, and over a coffee.

Voters want a council that listens to them, works together, and finds common ground. I am that leader.

What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

Smart, forwardthinking growth must be addressed. At full buildout, Liberty Lake will have 8,000 more residents.

City council must take the time to plan correctly and build responsibly.

Rework is costly.

For example, our council

recently spent tens of thousands of dollars and a year or more working on plans to move our Library to Legacy Church only to abruptly change course and decide to move City Hall there instead.

Liberty Lake has the data, tools, and a knowledgeable city staff to help us make effective, prudent decisions. What we need is leadership committed to using them wisely. As an engaged citizen concerned about the management of city resources, I’m already attending council meetings, studying our budget, and reviewing our strategic, capital, and comprehensive plans. I’m ready to get to work, include you in the process, and plan for the future.

What best qualifies you for this position?

I am an innovative, resultsorientated professional with administrative, financial, and organizational experience.

I am extremely focused on identifying problems and finding solutions for our community.

Liberty Lake is a beautiful, fast-growing community and I have absolute understanding in community structure and establishing goals for success. To successfully lead this community, one needs a genuine understanding of community dynamics.

I, along with others, had the pleasure of incorporating Liberty Lake in 2002. Incorporation was a tremendous undertaking,

everyone worked extremely hard and stayed true to our mission and vision.

My public services career spans 43 years with 25 years of leading four municipalities. I know municipal government inside-and-out. My passion is public service. I ask the citizens of Liberty Lake for their vote.

What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

Managed sustainable growth. The city is expected to reach a population of 20,000 over the next ten years. As a city we must be prepared for this through various partnerships; our schools, public safety, affordable housing, and business to support the residents. Currently, the city has an advisory vote on the

Arlene Fisher

Judie Schumacher Candidate

Candidate

November ballot for our library. Regardless of the outcome, we will need a resolution.

My education consists of a bachelor’s degree and a master’s in public administration.

Along with my experience and education I have the foundation to make sound and solid decisions.

THIS RESPONSE WAS SUBMITTED LATE

What is your favorite place to volunteer?

Phil Folyer - City Planning Commission Rick Klingler - Helping my wife in her first-grade classroom Judie Schumacher - Partner’s INW Food, Diaper, and Clothing Bank Arlene Fisher - 2nd Harvest Brandon Arthur - accompanying my daughter on school field trips Allen Skidmore - University High School Pam Orebaugh - events that are related to bringing Jesus to people Mark Bitz - Local Schools

16 • OCTOBER 2025

What is your favorite community event?

The Splash

Cvsd director dist. 2 Brandon Arthur

What best qualifies you for this position?

I’m running because I care deeply about the future of our kids—especially since I have a child in the district myself. I believe parents should have a strong voice in education and be the ultimate decision-makers regarding their children’s health, well-being, and learning. I will ensure our resources are used wisely by thoroughly reviewing the budget, eliminating unnecessary spending, and directing funds where they

belong—helping students succeed, whether they’re high achievers or need extra support.

My experience leading and managing the finances of my real estate business has equipped me to make smart, transparent decisions that put our kids first.

What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

Children in today’s public schools face different challenges than I did growing up. The greatest challenge for public education right now is the push to diminish parental rights in their child’s education. Parents should be well-informed and directly involved in the education and decisions made regarding their child. This specifically affects families in the Central Valley School District, as bureaucrats in Olympia are inserting themselves into policy decisions that should be made at the local level.

What best qualifies you for this position?

I want to keep Central Valley schools great! My desire to serve, 18-year history of school service, and professional expertise best qualify me for the position of Central Valley School Board Director Position 2.

What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

Central Valley schools provided an excellent education and fantastic extracurricular experiences for my four children. I want to make sure that tradition of excellence continues.

Teachers, coaches, and administrators went above and beyond for

my children. My desire to serve builds from their example—I want to go above and beyond to help our schools and families continuously improve and thrive. From 2006 until 2024, my kids attended Chester Elementary, Horizon Middle School, and University High School.

During that time, I served our school community as a volunteer soccer coach, YMCA football coach, Math is Cool coach, Cub Scout Pack 420 volunteer, school accreditation committee parent member, and various other school and district committees, including my most recent role, in 2024, as a Senior All-Nighter fundraiser.

In my 26-year career as a Family Physician, I have

Candidate

Phil Folyer - 4th of July Concert & Firework Show Rick Klingler - 4th of July and Liberty Lake Fest Judie Schumacher - Barefoot in the Park Arlene Fisher - Rotary Rim Ride Brandon Arthur - Spokane Fair Allen Skidmore - Hay J’s Bistro Pam Orebaugh - I love a great steak meal Mark Bitz - Our kitchen with garden ingredients

Ballot Drop Off Locations

Liberty Lake Library 23123 E Mission Ave Liberty Lake, WA 99019 Otis Orchards Library 22324 E Wellesley Ave Otis Orchards, WA 99027 Spokane Valley Library 22 N Herald Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Argonne Library 4322 N Argonne Rd Spokane, WA 99212

Allen SKidmore Candidate

become a skilled listener, information-gatherer, and decision-maker.

These skills will be important as we face important challenges in balancing our resources and efforts to best serve everyone, from the struggling student to the thriving student, from the business community to the taxpaying retiree, and all those who live within our district.

OCTOBER 2025 • 17

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cvsd director dist. 5 Serving the greater Spokane Valley since 1985 Residential and Office Cleaning Licensed and Insured Hourly Rates

“Honoring local communities and encouraging citizen involvement” 509.242.7752 | PO Box 363 | Liberty Lake, WA 99019 | www.libertylakesplash.com

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“What do you have, like three city or town councils in the greater Valley?” he asked me.

means preparing students for 21st century careers while ensuring their well being and safety. If elected, I will use strategic thinking and collaboration to prioritize actions to serve all Central Valley students, families, staff, and our community.

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soaring to national and international acclaim.

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from Josh. The new owners live in Spokane Valley, are invested here and understand what matters to their neighbors. As handoffs go, the two papers could not have landed in better hands.

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next five years, the future looks brighter than ever. Readership is growing, advertising is up and the stories keep generating talk.

The Current now has a 25,000 copy Current founder circulation with 15,000 being direct weighs in on formative days of paper mailed to households across the Spokane Valley area in addition to the 10,000 copies being available for pickup at over 250 business locations. About 9,000 copies of The Splash are distributed around the end of each month, 5,500 of those through direct mail to every home and business in the greater Liberty Lake community.

accounts of the human spirit overcoming adversity from U-Hi grad Mitch Carbon’s remarkable triumph over cancer to the feats of Spokane Para Sport athletes

His opinion from decades in the business: Publishing a community newspaper was challenging enough on its own without doing it for Spokane Valley.

Candidate

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In late 2015, Ben Wick – known by most for his service on the Spokane Valley City Council – stepped up with his wife, Danica, to purchase the Current and Splash

“Close, but that’s an interesting story in itself. You see, our agricultural heritage means many of our community place names and identities were formed around a patchwork of irrigation districts …”

Mark Bitz

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Join Us

SCIL PROVIDES VOICE CRITIAL

By Josh Johnson

I’ve built a reputation for leadership, teamwork, creative problemsolving, and supporting colleagues—skills that directly translate to effective school board service.

As a 40-year resident, long-time school volunteer, and parent of two CVSD graduates, I will listen to students and families.

Serving today’s students and keeping our schools strong requires capable board members who are focused on student success and work collaboratively with the administration and community.

What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

Help our district focus on what matters most— student success. Success

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OCtOber

He was the stereotypical inky wretch, grizzled and grumpy.

Coffee: black and bottomless.

Blood type: CMYK.

What best qualifies you for this position?

I bring real-world experience, strong leadership, and a collaborative approach to help our students and schools thrive. As CVSD’s 2023 Teacher of the Year, I draw on 11 years of classroom experience in both academic and technical education, where I’ve focused on helping students learn independently and prepare for their next step—whether that’s an apprenticeship, trade school, college, or career.

Before teaching, I was an engineer and project manager at HewlettPackard, leading global teams and managing major projects. In both education and business,

FEBRUARY 2017 • 9

COVER STORY

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The Current

Reach 25,000+ Readers! s

What best qualifies you for this position?

I am best qualified to retain my seat on the CVSD School board for numerous reasons.

First, I am currently in that position and have the knowledge and skills from serving.

Being on the school board is vastly different than teaching and there is a lot to learn related to laws, policies, advocacy, budget, and governance. Second,

from parents to staff to kids to taxpayers. I have done all these things and will continue if reelected.

What is the most important issue that needs to be addressed?

The most important issue is state overreach into our local community. This issue affects everything in our district from policies, curriculum, to finances, The state continues to make laws that take away our ability to make decisions.

This erodes trust with our community/parents and for our community/ parents to have input into our decisions. I have advocated on hard topics, like protecting girls’ spaces and parents’ rights.

en

incumbent

I am a fierce advocate for our children. I believe that our district must prepare students for their dreams and to be productive members of our community.

Students must have high academic standards and supports, a vast array of course choices, and safety at school. Third, our children best succeed when the district is in partnership with their parents/families.

Our parents must be respected and encouraged to participate in their children’s education. Fourth, we must ensure that we are using taxpayer dollars wisely, while being transparent and accountable, and in a manner that best supports our kids’ education. Fifth, we must communicate and listen to our community—

Farme r

Pam Orebaugh

“Four, because we want to cover Rockford, and of course there are thousands of unincorporated residents governed by Spokane County, so keeping tabs on the commission will be important, too.”

“And four or five high schools?”

“Four school districts, six high schools to report on.”

“Shoot, you have like a billion water districts.”

“Yeah, yeah,” he interrupted.

“The bottom line is that community newspapers thrive because of a shared sense of community. With such a mishmash of overlapping jurisdictions and loyalties, that’s a challenge in Spokane Valley.”

And it was. And it is. But to this day, I remain convinced that even if I’m a Central Valley Bear and current owner and publisher Ben Wick is an East Valley Knight, our common interests far outweigh a couple miles of geography.

And so, five years ago, when I led a team made up of greater Valley folks like myself to launch The Current, the name itself was intended to be a reflection of what holds us together, like the Spokane River winding its way through our neighborhoods.

We wanted to build a community newspaper for everyone in the greater Spokane Valley, whether their kids attended East Farms or Seth Woodard, whether they rose

As the Current embarks on its

early to see the hot air balloons off at Mirabeau or floated frogs down Rock Creek in the annual regatta.

As for dealing with all the jurisdictional dividing lines, we employed twin strategies. One, we would hit the high points. In the early years, we did a “3 Up, 3 Down” feature to give “at a glance” news from around the community and we always made a point to dig deeper into the most important jurisdictional items. But mostly, we relied on strategy two: Write about the issues we have in common, because there are an awful lot of them.

I wrote the cover story for the very first issue of The Current about homeless students in the greater Valley. This is an issue we should continue to address as a community, because suburban homelessness is a growing problem nationally, and it is one that isn’t always effectively fought with the same tools we would deploy downtown.

By issue 12 (January 2013), we shared what we called our “One Valley Initiative.” These were four “topic threads” – Growing Business, Poverty in the Valley, Healthy Valley and Innovative Education – we used to help us focus and plan our

Thank you for the support, greater Spokane Valley. This is your paper. coverage.

Of course, we also had so much fun along the way. There was our annual food bracket placing Valley eats in a single elimination competition. The idea here was to advance great Valley menu options through a bracket while sitting on couches watching the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Not a bad gig.

Indeed, owning and publishing The Current through its first 48 issues remains a highlight of my life, but I am certain I couldn’t say that save for one qualifying factor: We covered the greater Spokane Valley, my home and yours.

And it’s the home of current owners Ben and Danica Wick, who beautifully share the heritage of this now 5-year-old publication: a commitment and love for the Valley.

The Wicks share this, I share this and I am going to take an educated guess that you are reading this right now because you do, too.

And that, Mr. Grizzled Newspaper Publisher, is why this works.

Advertise With Us and Let Us Help You Fine Tune Your Message

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The Splash

OCTOBER 2025 • 19

20 • OCTOBER 2025

The Splash

Mark Bitz l l

l l

l l l

KC Abbott Katherine Alley Barbara Asbury Alison Ashlock Sergey Avdyushkin Michal R. Bailey Jacob Ballard Jim Bauer Doug Benedict David Benner Zakariah Beyrouti Brandon Brown Lori Buratto Bill Burdick Cameron Carson Anny Case Elisa Cayce Nancy Champion Cartwright Ryan Chilson Keith Clark Lynée Clay Carrie Clifton Bret Clifton Jeanine Coghlan Haley Cooper-Scott Kyle Cross Karen Cross Dan Dunne Shawna Dunne Je�rey Ellingson Eugenie Farrow Jeanne Fightmaster Dee Finchamp Mike Fowler Dr. Clare Fowler Grace Fredeen Theresa Frost Tom Frost Greer Greenup-Cross Elizabeth Grosen Shirley Grossman Cat Hannahs Ken & Becky Hannahs Lisa Harding Gail Heck-Sweeney David Himebaugh Carrie Hoag

Birgit Hodgson Keith Hoekema Suzi Hokonson Robert Hyslop Bill Isbell Kelli Jansen PJ Jarvis Cheri Jensen Mary Jordan Hailey Jorges Eric Jurasin Cheri & Robert Kaatz Karen Kielbon Jenn Krzmarzick Dr. Wade Larson Laurie Latta Conner Leamond Salvatore Lorenzen Marc Lyman Robert McGinty Kay McGlocklin Dennis McGuire Rachelle Miller

“Mark Bitz is one of the best educators I’ve known in 30+ years of teaching in the Central Valley School District. If you want someone who has proven that he really cares about our schools...select Mark Bitz for Central Valley school board.”

–Kyle Schafer

Beth Miller Suzanne Miller Destiny Mitchell George Momany Laura Murphy Ashley Myers Julie Myers Toivo Mykkanen Kottayam Natarajan Elizabeth Nelson Judy Nettles Camille Nielsen Mike Nielsen Scott Oakshott Debra O�ll

l Washington Education Association l Central Valley Education Association l Public School Employees of Washington, SEIU Local 1948

decade I’ve poured real-world experience into local classrooms—teaching elementary, middle, and high school students, coaching award-winning STEM teams, and always looking honored me as Educator of the Year, a recognition that reflects my commitment to both practical innovation and student success.

Skip Torenson Tom Triplett Tracy Troyer Jay Walter Kay Walter Elizabeth Warren Wally Watson Rein Wehrman Susie Weller Mike Wende Jody Wende Bob West Michelle Womack Christine Wyatt Leslie Zilka

O cially endorsed by...

I’ve called this area home for more than 40 years. For the past

for ways to help young people grow. In 2023, the CVSD board

Skye Pauly Duncan Perkins Keegan Phillips Carrie Prophet Maureen Ramos Kaden Rash Tim Ray Joey Reagan Tyler Robbins Bryce Roberts Debra Rose Tom Sahlberg Carolyn Schafer Andrew Schafer Dale Schillinger Sara Schultz Kyla Scott Gene Sementi Jen Small Suzanne Smith Shelly Smith Cindy Sothen Jamie Spencer Wally Stanley Bryan Taylor Karen Torenson

Read these and other endorsements...

OCTOBER 2025 • 21

The Splash

brought to you by

Student of the Month

Athlete of the Month

Citizen of the Month

Ridgeline High School senior Jacob ‘JJ’ Hosig is active on and off the field. Hosig is the ASB Treasurer, a member of the Ridgeline Link Crew, Key Club, National Honor Society, and is apart of a newer group called the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. While maintaining a 3.95 GPA Hosig enjoys volunteering with the Key Club with the local elementary schools at after school activities including their Bingo events or Day Care nights. Outside of school Hosig attends Valley Real Life Church where he is an active member.

Hosig is also active on the sports fields participating in both the Ridgeline Cross Country team where he is participated the last three years, and the Ridgeline Track Team where he has tried almost all of the events but likes the 4 by 4 or 300 meter hurdles the best. After high school Hosig plans to go to college somewhere in Washington to get his Bachelors then Masters and even Doctorate in Physical Therapy with a minor in Biblical Studies. “I want to teach kids about how to prevent injuries and how to take care of their bodies” said Hosig.

Ridgeline Soccer team member Lydia Lynn loves to be apart of the team and spending time with her teammates.

Lynn, who plays soccer year round, has been playing since she was four years old and plays not only on the Ridgeline varsity team but also in club with the Spokane Shadow. Lynn currently plays as the center forward but can go anywhere “as long as its in the front” said Lynn.

Lynn was the first one to score a goal in Ridgelines first league game against Gonzaga Prep. While just starting her junior year and maintaining a 3.9 GPA Lynn recently received a scholarship from the Oregon State University and has committed to attending college and playing soccer for them after high school. “I am thinking about studying business but I haven’t thought about it much” added Lynn. While at Ridgeline Lynn is also involved with the Link Crew, helping mentor the incoming freshman, as well as the National Honor Society.

Liberty Lake Police Department Corp Darin Powers recently received the Law Enforcement Commendation Medal for his service above and beyond the call of duty he took to assist an area military veteran and that persons wife. On Aug 17th Corp Powers was dispatched to respond to a suicidal suspect who was identified as a military veteran suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Corp Powers took the time to learn more about the veteran, found him a facility and program to help him with his PTSD and was able to make arrangements to get the individual to better treatments and personally escorted him to the airport to reach the new facility. Corp Powers joined the Liberty Lake Police Department back in January of 2024 and was also recognized as the 2024 Officer of the Year back in January of this year.

THE

LIBERTY LAKE

COMMUNITY NEWSMAGAZINE

&

Thanks you for all you do in our community

Building lasting communities for everyone to be a part of.

ENRICHED LIVING. LASTING VALUE.

New homes in Spokane, Liberty Lake, Post Falls & Coeur d’Alene. greenstonehomes.com

22 • OCTOBER 2025

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OCTOBER 2025 • 23

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24 • OCTOBER 2025

The Splash

Sponsored By:

www.hubsportscenter.org

Fall sports kickoff at Ridgeline

Myranda Evans and Kayla Jensen, with seniors Sophia Sine, Sierra Tate, Rachel Christensen and junior Lily Bulkley competing for the varsity’s seventh spot. Six freshmen have joined the team, with Erika Bell, Kalia Blanchard, Emery Sevy already making an impact and Mary Pollman also being a strong contender for that No. 7 spot.

By John McCallum Splash contributor Cross country

The Falcon girls look to be an experienced team heading into the fall season, returning four seniors and three juniors to the varsity squad.

Senior Gretchyn Carter is the only returning runner competing at state in 2024, finishing 62nd overall. Head coach Heather Graham said she will be Ridgeline’s No. 1 female runner.

Also

returning

are

juniors

“Our team is focused on pushing each other to be better,” Graham said in an email. “We’ve found strength in that unified goal and power in the persistent pursuit to give our best effort every day.”

So far that focus has produced some promising results. At the 2.5mile Highlander Invitational on Sept. 13, the Falcons captured first in the freshmen race, leading a field

of 18 teams and edging second-place Richland, 20-27. Blanchard and Sevy finished 5-6 while Bell was 10th.

At the Mountain West Classic in Missoula, Mont. Sept. 20, Ridgeline’s junior varsity and varsity both finished ninth out of 39 and 67 teams respectively. Carter led the varsity girls, finishing 36th with a time of 20 minutes, 0.39 seconds while Sevy was 44th in 20:12.52.

Ridgeline’s first Greater Spokane League meet was Sept. 24, results too late for this issue, facing fellow 3A classification mates Cheney and Mt. Spokane. The Falcons were ranked No. 10 in the Sept. 22 Washington State 3A Cross Country Coaches Association poll.

Slowpitch softball

Despite being a relatively inexperienced team – only seven returning varsity players – the Falcons are off to a pretty good start at 7-2 overall, 3-2 and sitting in sixth in the highly-competitive GSL. “This group of girls really plays with their heart and they work hard every practice to advance their skills,” head coach Lori Maupin said in an email.

Ridgeline is hoping to improve on its third-place GSL finish in 2024, 11-2, 14-4 overall. It marked another improvement in the program’s fourth year, moving up one position in the standings from 2023 while winning two more games in league play.

Seeded fifth in the 2A/3A District 6 tournament, Ridgeline overcame on opening round loss with a win over Deer Park but fell two runs shy of a state berth with a 5-4 loss to sixth-seed Shadle Park in a winnerto-state, loser-out game.

This year’s team is led by senior and four-year varsity player Quincy Coder, who is currently batting .637 while moving from the infield to the outfield on defense.

“She has filled a huge hole in our outfield by stepping to a position she has never played before at centerfield,” Maupin said in praising her leadership.

Contributed photo Boys Cross Country at the Mountain West Classic where the varsity team placed 17th out of 79 teams and JV placed 11th out of 49.

Also back for the Falcons is senior Jenna Fleeman (infield/ outfield), juniors Ada Case (third base), Millicent Dobyns (first base), sophomores Kadence Barcus (shortstop) and Gianna Haiar (infield).

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You areMcordiallY ARK YOUR CALENDARS invited to the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum’s 21st Annual Heritage Program Fundraiser

You are invited to the 21st Annual Heritage Program Fundraiser!

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Presentation: Antoine Plante, Ferryman, Guide & Witness to History Silent Auction & Raffle & History General Store

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Desserts & Refreshments Please support your museum by attending this fun and informational event!

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When: Saturday, November 8th Presentation: Antoine Plante, Guide, Ferryman, Where: Center Place EvenWitness t Center to 262History 4 N Discovery Place Time: 1pm – 3pm Location: Center Place Event Center Cost: $25 2426 N Discovery Place Silent Auction, History Books, Raffles, Snacks and Refreshments Tickets: $25 on the museum’s website events tab or at the museum.

Tickets are available at the museum or on the website: www.spokanevalleymuseum.com

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if you are interested in contributing an article in the future or sponsoring this section please reach out to Ben@libertylakesplash.com “You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today” -Abraham Lincoln I don’t see responsibility as just a noun, though that’s what the dictionary tells us it is. I see responsibility as a verb. It’s an action you take. It’s something you actively engage in, consciously, to achieve a result. In concept, responsibility seems easy – deliver on your commitments and do what you say you’re going to do.

However, in practice, it isn’t a one size fits all approach and is fully dependent on what the situation requires.

Responsibility can be demonstrated in various ways: taking ownership of your actions; honoring a decision and the outcomes; completing a job on time; meeting deadlines for tasks or assignments; or maintaining healthy choices (brush those teeth kids!) All are different examples of responsibility, but the result is the same - the thing that was to be done got done. Responsibility, when done right, helps foster trust among individuals and groups.

Trust is the result of responsibility.

When an individual reliably fulfills commitments as promised, trust is strengthened. This trust fosters a sense of assurance that expectations and requirements will be consistently met. Trust is a fundamental value that cultivates growth and resiliency as individuals and within our communities.

As the current President of LLSV Little League and an active coach in the league, I take responsibility very seriously. As president of the league, my role involves ensuring that our board is equipped to provide all athletes—and their families—with opportunities for learning and growth in a safe, inclusive environment. Achieving this result requires significant time, commitment, and attention to equipping our volunteers with the

necessary resources to fulfill our mission: using baseball as a vehicle to teach valuable life lessons and strengthen both individuals and our community. Continually upholding these standards is essential to earning and maintaining the trust of those we serve.

As a coach in the league, it is my responsibility to ensure that athletes and families on my teams have clear understanding of my expectations, and me of theirs, prior to the season.

Establishing these expectations in advance fosters mutual understanding, while trust is built through consistent accountability and the fulfillment of commitments.

Reinforcing these expectations is also one of my responsibilities so everyone aligned and engaged during the season.

As a leader at work, I take ownership of my actions, decisions, and mistakes, all while prioritizing the well-being of the members of my teams. I feel that their fulfillment at

work is part of my job, and I want to make sure that they all feel like what they do daily is impactful and meaningful and that their hard work is recognized and appreciated.

As a father, it’s my job to demonstrate responsibility to our two young sons. It’s my duty to show them how to take accountability for your actions, regardless of the consequences or how difficult they may be. I strive to demonstrate daily how to deliver on your word, and that when you say you’ll do something there’s no question that it’ll get done.

Taking responsibility can contribute to the development of communities, families, friendships, workplaces, and teams. Although "responsibility" is a noun, it refers to actions that can be demonstrated in everyday life. Go practice it today!

Brief Bio: PJ Henscheid is the current president of Liberty Lake Spokane Valley (LLSV)

Little League. He has served on the League’s Board of Directors for 4 years, and he has been actively serving the local community through youth baseball in our area for the past 9+ years.

Baseball has been a passion of PJ’s since he was young, playing in Little League in southern Idaho, and was fortunate to continue that passion on through into college where he played several years of college baseball.

PJ has worked for Avista Utilities for the past 18+ years, and is currently engineering manager, supporting two highly effective teams of engineers. PJ is an active advocate for young engineers and their personal and professional progression within the company and industry.

PJ and his wife Kim have been married for just over 20 years, and they are kept extremely busy by their two young boys, Carter (14) and Evan (10).

Most days find PJ and Kim chasing their boys around to various sporting events, and almost everyday it seems somehow includes a baseball game or a practice.

Manager: David Paisano, Coaches: PJ Henscheid & Jason Fierst Players: Hayden Fierst, Connor Frazier, Griffin Fryer, Kamden Hanley, Carter Henscheid, Vance Kusler, Charlie McLean, Jakobe Nienstedt-White, David Paisano, Tysen Pulczinski, Ryan Rojas, Beckett Simmelink, Colton Williams

28 • OCTOBER 2025

The Splash

STA Expands Bus Service and adding multiple routes in Liberty Lake

By Nina Culver

Splash contributor

Service provided by the Spokane Transit Authority is changing in Liberty Lake, with the biggest change being the creation of a new high performance transit route between the suburb and the Spokane International Airport.

The new Route 7 was created by combining the old Route 60 between downtown Spokane and the airport and Route 74 serving the Mirabeau Park and Ride and Liberty Lake. “Routes 60 and 74 no longer exist,” said Emily Poole, STA’s chief planning and development officer.

“They have been discontinued so we can add Route 7.”

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The changes have been under consideration for a long time and are part of the Interstate 90-Valley Corridor development plan, Poole said. The new route is also part of the STA Moving Forward 10-year strategic plan. “It has been in the plans for some time,” she said.

The new route is considered a regional high performance transit route because of its length.

There are a handful of other high performance routes, both regional and urban, including the Monroe/

Regal line, the Cheney line and the route that goes out Sprague Avenue to Spokane Valley. “We’re trying to distribute those regionally,” said Carly Cortright, STA chief communications and customer service officer.

Route 7 starts at the Liberty Lake Park and Ride at 22501 E. Mission Avenue and heads north briefly before going west on Mission Avenue and Indiana Avenue, stopping at the Spokane Valley Mall, to the Mirabeau Transit Center near Pines Road. It then heads downtown on I-90, stops at the STA Plaza downtown, and then goes to the airport via the Sunset Highway.

The route is expected to serve both commuters and people going to the airport, said Cortright. It’s the only way to get to the airport without ever having to transfer buses. “You could always get to the airport, you just had to transfer downtown,” Cortright said. “That’s intimidating to some people.”

The Liberty Lake Park and Ride is also an important access point for commuters coming in from Idaho, Poole said. “Liberty Lake Park and Ride is intended to be a hub,” she said.

Route 7 is expected to take about 50 minutes from start to finish and buses start the route every 30 minutes. Service comes every hour on the weekends.

Riders going to the airport should be aware that long-term parking is not available in Park and Ride lots, Cortright said. People can’t park at a Park and Ride, take the bus to the airport and then not return for several days or longer, she said. “In theory someone will drop you off,”

OCTOBER 2025 • 29

The Splash she said. “They’re only intended for business hours.”

Route 7 began taking riders on September 21, the same day that other changes came to other Liberty Lake Routes. Route 93, the Molter Loop, also launched the same day.

The route begins and ends at the Liberty Lake Park and Ride and never leaves the city. It heads east on Mission, north on Molter Road, west on Appleway Avenue, south on Signal Drive and then back to the Park and Ride. Service on Route 93 is every 30 minutes on weekdays and every hour on the weekends.

Changes have also been made to Route 722, the Liberty Lake Express, and Route 724, the Liberty Lake Tech Express. Route 724 starts at Country Vista Boulevard and Appleway Avenue, then goes to downtown Spokane via I-90. Route 722 also starts at Country Vista and Appleway but uses Mission to access the Liberty Lake Park and Ride before heading to downtown Spokane via I-90. The end of the route includes a loop north of downtown via Monroe Street to the Spokane County Courthouse and then east to the Spokane Arena.

The goal was to make bus transportation easier for commuters coming in to work in Liberty Lake or heading from Liberty Lake to jobs downtown, Poole said. “We really listened to employees in Liberty Lake,” she said.

Poole said she expects the new routes to be popular, particularly since Route 7 runs seven days a week and one of the ones it replaced, Route 74, did not run on Sundays.

“Before we make changes, even if they’re in our plan, we always go out and get input before we make the change,” she said. “We had no negative feedback. When you go out to the public, that’s rare.”

People said people surveyed liked the idea of the route being daily and they also liked that buses will run every 30 minutes, Poole said.

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“We’re really excited for the route service,” she said.

Complete bus schedules and route maps are available online at www.spokanetransit.com. People can also call (509) 328-RIDE for assistance. The bus fare is $2 for two hours, including transfers.

Republicans of Spokane County 1 Pac P.O. Box 141675 Spokane Valley, WA 99037 Republicans of Spokane are NOT the Spokane County GOP

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Council reviews cohousing standards, adopts new library policies

By John McCallum Splash contributor

Co-housing regulations, library policy, a City Hall project and planning grant were some of the items discussed and adopted by the Liberty Lake City Council at its two meetings in September.

Co-housing development code The council conducted a workshop at its Sept. 16 meeting on co-housing codes required under new state laws. All cities and counties planning under the Growth Management Act must adopt their codes by Dec. 31, 2025.

Community Development Director Lisa Key said if entities don’t adopt their own codes by this time, then state regulations become the de facto standards. Like other cities and counties, Liberty Lake is in the review process of updating its Comprehensive Plans and other documents to reflect other changes handed down by the state.

“This is really unfortunate,” Key said. “It couldn’t go with all of the other housing elements; it has to go now.”

Liberty Lake currently has a definition of co-housing in its municipal code, which is referenced as “a residential development with sleeping units that are independently rented and lockable and provide living and sleeping space, and residents share kitchen facilities with other units in the building.”

Rooming houses, boarding houses and lodging houses fall under this definition.

Under the new RCWs, municipal codes must allow for co-housing on any lot with six or more multifamily units, and cannot create standards for co-housing that are more restrictive than those for multifamily uses. These standards also cannot

The Splash require more than 0.25 off-street parking spaces per unit and cannot require any off-street parking spaces if located within one-quarter mile of a major transit stop.

The state defines a major transit stop as one “providing fixed route service at intervals of at least 15 minutes for at least five hours during the peak hours of operation on weekdays or a transit stop on a bus rapid transit route.”

“We have some of those right now, and we will have some of those as of Sept. 22,” Key said, referencing planned expanded Spokane Transit Authority services.

Liberty Lake allows co-housing units within all residential zones except single family. It is not allowed in commercial, industrial or other city zones. In the River District north of Interstate 90, co-housing is allowed in all three zones.

“We have versions of this happening already in Liberty Lake,” Key said. “So, it’s not drastic, it’s just more bureaucratic that we have to pass this ordinance.”

Key said she plans to bring the first reading of the proposed ordinance to council at its Oct. 7 meeting.

ON THAT NOTE their child is registered for a library card that they will have access to the public computers and internet.”

Policy changes also included the library’s new circulation policy regarding “claims returned and claims never had.” The new policy limits borrowers to three of these claims, after which the borrower would have to pay for the item.

If the material is borrowed from another Inlandshare Library Group member, it is up to that library to determine if they will allow the claims returned/claims never had.

A final policy change specifics that Spokane County Library District holders of a Liberty Lake library card obtained through a joint agreement are entitled to all library privileges except interlibrary loans “and remote access to electronic resources such as downloadable audiobooks, ebooks and streaming services.”

Opioid settlement accepted Council voted 6-1 at its Sept. 16 meeting to receive approximately $41,000 in revenue from settlement of nine separate lawsuits brought by the state of Washington against generic opioid drug manufacturers.

The agreement is the city’s portion

of the $122.5 million settlement reached with the companies by the state Attorney General’s office over the next 15 years, and part of the overall $4.5 billion, multi-state settlement.

Like previous opioid settlements, Liberty Lake’s portion is contingent on all eligible Washington cities and counties electing to join the settlement. Spokane Valley voted unanimously at its Sept. 9 council meeting to accept its settlement amount.

Casting the lone no vote was Councilman Jed Spencer, who said he doesn’t agree with government suing and requiring organizations to pay. Spencer said it doesn’t solve the problem and really amounts to a “big cash grab.”

Grant, overlay project, City Hall design services As part of its Sept. 2 meeting consent agenda, the City Council approved a number of items including execution of the second part of a state planning grant, amendment of a local area agreement with the state Department of Transportation for the Mission Avenue pavement project and agreement to enter into renovation

OCTOBER 2025 • 31

design services for City Hall.

Liberty Lake received a Department of Commerce grant for assistance with updates to the city’s Comprehensive Plan requiring a Climate chapter. The city has already received $255,000 in reimbursement funds for planning activities on the chapter through June 2025. The second part will reimburse the city up to $245,000 for its work through June 2026.

The WSDOT agreement amends the contract with the state to lower the required city matching funds amount for the Mission Avenue project from 25% to 13.5%. Total cost of the Mission pavement overlay is estimated at just over $1.5 million.

Finally, council authorized execution of a $428,398 contract with BCRA, Inc. from Tacoma for City Hall renovation design services.

The project is for improvements to the Legacy Church Building to accommodate it as the new location for City Hall.

Services include “program validation, schematic design, design development, construction documents, permitting, bidding assistance and construction administration.”

Library circulation and library card eligibility In action items at the Sept. 16 meeting, council unanimously approved several changes to policy proposed by the Liberty Lake Municipal Library Board of Trustees. One of those is to require a charge for a non-resident library card.

“This is new, we’ve never had a charge for a non-resident card,” library trustee Barb Richardson said.

Non-resident cards will be available for $30 per year for those residing within the Inlandshare Library Group boundaries, with picture ID and proof of residence required at purchase. The library has joined the Inlandshare Library Group following the dissolution of the library network it was previously involved with since 2012, Idaho’s Cooperative Information Network.

The policy also gives nonresidents access to the library’s filtered internet and variety of software services available on library computers. The policy noted parents/guardians need to acknowledge that “when

Contributed photo Haystack Heights, a co-housing community established in 2021 an intergenerational village with a strong sense of community. Their website boasts Cohousing provides the perfect balance between privacy and community, offering a supportive environment for both young families and elders wanting to age in place.

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